Marked Chapter 14 - We Belong

EPOV

Feels so warm...

The smell of Earl Grey seemed to surround me, to fill my senses even in my sleep along with the feeling of Jasper lying against my back, his hips shifting into mine in a slow rhythm while his fingers trailed from my hip to my chest, brushing my nipples ever so lightly. His lips alternated between soft kisses along my neck and whispered words I couldn't quite make out but that left me wanting to find out. It all felt so real but so close to the dream I'd had several times now that, with my half-asleep mind, I was convinced it was just that - a dream. It was one my body was most definitely responding to... but then, it always did. And if this was a dream, I really didn't want to wake up to find he wasn't there. So, I struggled to stay in that pleasant haze of not-quite-asleep-but-not-awake-either.

My dreams had always been very vivid, at times to the point of being difficult to distinguish between them and reality, and this seemed to fall under that category. I could almost feel Jasper hardening as he continued to move against my lower back, could almost hear his breathing change as I caught some of the whispered words of "Wake up, darlin'..." and "...feel so good..." and "...want you, but you need to wake..." all while I could almost feel the teasing, feather-light touches he was bestowing on me wherever he could reach. It felt so good; I didn't want to wake up - didn't want it to end. I wanted for it to be real so much that I clung to it.

And then the warmth was gone. The touches, the kisses, the whispered words all ceased, and I actually moaned at the loss, sure I was beginning to wake up, yet refusing to do so. I burrowed my head into my pillow with a frown as I tried to convince my body and mind to just go back to sleep, to try and catch that dream again. Somewhere in the back of my mind, I vaguely thought I felt the bed move and that I heard some noise I couldn't place, but I brushed it off as wishful thinking - I was sure the noise I thought I'd heard was coming from inside my own head, so I didn't bother to get up and check.

As suddenly as everything had stopped, though, it was back, right as I felt myself start to slip into unconsciousness again. I was glad - maybe I could stay with that dream this time and see it through.

I moaned as the fingertips found my nipples again, rolling them at the same time hips bucked into mine insistently. His lips found the join of my neck and shoulder, lavishing the skin with kisses and whispers to wake up, and I wanted to shake my head and say, "No...dream's too good."

I thought I heard a soft chuckle as the fingers found their way down my abs, teasing me as I felt my morning wood twitch at the imagined contact. I moaned again. God, I want more...this feels so good...

The fingers were gone, and the warmth left my back as well. I wanted to tell him to come back, when suddenly he was there again, his body pressed close to mine. Something felt different, but my sleep-addled brain couldn't figure out what it was. His lips returned to my flesh, peppering it with kisses.

The fingers were back, too, though this time they felt warm and slick as they teased my entrance, and I thought I heard him say, "Wake up, Edward...please, wake up - need you, baby."

I was aching now, my body needing a release from the reactions to my dream, but I still didn't want to wake up. It wasn't until I felt Jasper lightly bite the join of my shoulder and neck as his finger slipped inside of me that I woke with a groan. "Fuuuuck...not a dream..."

I felt as well as heard him chuckle as he continued to pump his fingers into me, slipping in a second as he said, "About time you woke up, Sleeping Beauty."

He kissed where he had bitten me as he added a third finger. When he shifted, it clicked what had felt different - he was wearing a condom, and it was already lubed. I moaned at the realization, my hips rocking back into his hand as I whispered for him to please take me - I was so worked up; I just wanted to feel, to know this was real and he was here and that he wanted me.

His fingers slipped out, only to be replaced with the tip of his cock as he pressed against my entrance, holding himself there while he placed his hand on my hip to keep me from moving.

His voice was low and husky as he whispered in my ear, "Are you sure you're awake, Princess?"
I groaned, trying to shift back and just have him fill me already. "Fuck yes, I'm awake...please, Jas-..."

I inhaled sharply as he pushed steadily into me, swallowing the rest of my words as he slowly filled me. His grip on my hip was tight, and I fought to keep still until he was fully sheathed in me.

Fuck...feels so good...

He finally let go of my hip and began to slowly roll his hips into mine while I met him thrust for thrust. He was sweet and gentle at first, as his fingers roamed my body and his lips kept up their earlier attentions of whispered words and lingering kisses against my neck. He never said the words, but every touch, every soft spoken word, and every unspoken word were filled with something that touched my very soul.

"Oh God...more...please, Jazz..."

I wasn't even sure exactly what I was asking for more of; all I knew was that I wanted it. More of everything - of the way he filled me, the way he held me, the way he whispered my name...just more of him. In every way.

I raised my hand and reached back, tangling my fingers in his hair as I turned my head in search of his lips. He raised himself slightly so he could kiss me, never once ceasing the steady rocking of his hips as he moved in and out of me. It felt so fucking good, and I could feel the coil tighten in my belly as he began to move faster, harder, giving me more, like I had asked. He wrapped his hand around my aching cock and started to pump it in time with every thrust.

His steady whispers of how being with me felt, all the things he wanted to do to me, and all the things he did do soon pushed me over the edge, and I came hard, spilling over his hand, onto my stomach, and soiling the sheets - not that I gave a damn. I felt him stiffen and still as he pressed hard into me, his mouth latched onto my neck, muffling his grunt as he came. He was breathing heavily - as was I - and it took me awhile to catch his whispered, "Fucking hell...that..."

He pulled out of me, leaving me feeling empty as he shifted away to get rid of the condom. When he rolled back, he pushed himself up and reached over me, and I hissed at the sudden cold from the baby wipe as he cleaned me with tender care, pausing every now and then to place a kiss on my shoulder.

Once he had taken care of me and thrown away the wipe, he settled back on his side. I rolled to face him, placing my arm over his waist as I pulled him closer to me. We watched each other for a while, and I could tell from the look in his eyes that he had a lot on his mind, but I was a little afraid to find out what it was. I worried that whatever it was would negate the feelings that our love-making had left me with. And, to me, that was exactly what it had been: love-making. I just didn't know how to tell him that without sending him running for cover.

He reached his hand up, placing it gently on my cheek as he whispered, "What the fuck is it you're doing to me, Edward?" His eyes searched mine for answers to more than just the question he had asked.

I pulled him closer still, kissing him briefly before whispering against his lips, "I don't know, Jazz...but you do it to me, too."

His thumb brushed my cheekbone lightly as he continued to stare into my eyes, and the urge to say the words, to put it out there, was so strong that I had to bite my lip. He wasn't ready to hear them, and I wouldn't ruin any chance I might have with him by saying the words too soon. I sighed and closed my eyes as I kissed him again, claiming him, tasting him, loving him.

I love you, Jasper, and I wish I could tell you.

The alarm on his phone went off, and he pulled away with a groan, rolling over to silence it before turning back to me. I frowned when I realized that he had to go and meet Emily for their date-day, and I really didn't fucking want him to. I ducked my head, nuzzling his neck so he wouldn't see my face, knowing that, right then, I wouldn't be able to hide my disappointment or my hurt. With a sigh, I whispered, "I guess I don't have to pick you up to go get your car now, at least, huh?"

I tried to keep my voice light, but I wasn't sure how good of a job I had done. He cleared his throat and said in a soft voice, "No, I guess you don't."

Neither of us spoke for a moment; I wasn't really sure what to say. I couldn't very well ask him to stay and skip his date with his sister. When his alarm went off a second time, he sat up against the headboard and placed his hands in his lap, fidgeting with the sheet as he looked down. I wished I knew what he was thinking, that I had some indication of what to say or do. I caught him a few times as his eyes darted to me before he quickly averted his gaze again, obviously thinking about something and either not willing or unable to say whatever it was that was on his mind.

I sat up, pulled the covers completely off of me, and swung my legs over the side of the bed. When I made to get up, I felt his hand on my arm, and I looked over my shoulder at him as he leaned forward, his eyes serious - almost pleading - as he asked me to come with him.

I turned back to face him, puzzled. "Are you sure? Jazz..."

He still had his hand on my arm, and his grip tightened a little. "Please, Edward? I want you to come."

"Baby, I don't know..." Truth was, I wanted to jump at the chance to spend more time with him - and I wouldn't mind getting to know Emily better. I had taken to her the moment I met her; she was so open, so warm, and so loving...so very much like Jasper, in so many ways. But this was his time to spend with his sister, something just for them - and I had already intruded on that time once. I wasn't sure how I felt about doing so again.

He sat forward eagerly, his face lighting up as he tried to convince me to come along. When he said that he didn't really want to have our time together end, I didn't know what to say. My eyes searched his, but I found no hesitation, only a sense of hope - and something else. Something I couldn't readily identify, though fear came to mind - fear that I would say no. When I still hadn't said anything, he cleared his throat lightly and lowered his eyes.

"Emily asked me to see if you would come along, too, Edward."

I raised my eyebrows in question. "She did?"

He nodded, then looked up with a crooked grin, a playfulness in his eyes now that hadn't been there before. "Mhmm...don't make me call her and have her ask you herself. You already know how convincing she can be when she wants to."

I chuckled, holding my hands up in mock-surrender. "Alright, alright, if you insist."

His grin turned into a full smile, one I couldn't help but return as I leaned in to kiss him tenderly. His hand went to my hair, his fingers tangling, tightening as he anchored me to him and deepened the kiss. I moaned, my eyes closing as thoughts of an encore flitted through my head briefly. Even though we had both just been satisfied, I could feel my body already responding again.

I don't know how he does it, but fuck if I ever want him to stop!

I shifted, trying to push him on his back, but he resisted, pulling away with a reluctant smile. "As much as I would like to continue on to where this is headed, we'd better hop in the shower, sweetheart. Unless, of course, you want to go see Emily with sex-hair and have her know exactly what we were up to before meeting up with her?"

He grinned, ruffling my hair for emphasis as I blushed and quickly got out of bed, mumbling under my breath, "Goddamn tease..."

He chuckled. "I'll be right there, Princess."

I walked into the bathroom and turned the shower on right as I heard Jasper say, "Hey Lee-Lee? Just wanted to let you know I'm running a little late, but..."

Tuning out the rest of the conversation, I stepped under the cascading water, attempting to let it soothe my muscles – as well as temper the need I felt for him. I washed my hair quickly and was just rinsing out the suds when Jasper stepped into the shower with me, his arms circling my waist from behind as he kissed my neck with a soft hum.

I leaned back into him briefly, placing my hands over his wrists where they joined. I tilted my head so I could see him. "So, what did she have to say about my coming along? You did tell her, right?"

He grinned, pulling me tighter to him, and I had to stifle a groan when I felt his semi-hard cock press into my thigh. He put his lips right by my ear and said, "What if I told you I hadn't?"

I shivered as I half-turned in his arms, frowning slightly. "Jasper..."

He rolled his eyes. "She was ecstatic - squealed up a storm and told me no funny business and to hurry our asses up. She also said, since we're running late, not to worry about breakfast together so we could make it to the class on time."

I bit my lip, my frown deepening as I realized that they were used to starting their days together at breakfast. "I'm sorry..."

He shook his head, kissing me quickly to stop my words. "Don't worry about it; she doesn't mind. And I sure as hell don't mind what I got in return."

He kissed me again, turning me around completely before deepening the kiss. I groaned softly as I pressed closer to him – feeling him grow harder against my own growing erection.

Fuck...he is driving me crazy. We have to stop, or we'll never get out of here...

I pulled away, panting for breath as I rested my forehead against his. "Jesus, Jasper..."

He bucked his hips, biting his lip as he looked at me with mischief in his eyes.

I groaned. "You're killing me here, baby."

He chuckled, his fingers trailing languidly over my back as he murmured, "Sorry, darlin'. I'll behave...or, at least, I'll try to."

He winked, reached past me to grab the shampoo, and began to wash his hair – his eyes never leaving my body the entire time. I decided to make quick work of washing myself, needing to get out of there before we ended up in bed again. It was not that I was opposed to the idea, but I felt bad enough about disrupting their day, and I didn't want him to lose out on his time with his sister completely.

"I'm going to go make breakfast, since we're gonna go straight to...wait, what are we going to be doing today?"

I tilted my head as I looked at him, trying to think if he had mentioned it, and I had just forgotten. He shrugged, smirking slightly as he said, "She got us into an all-day pottery class or something. Sounds like it might be fun."

God help me...

Images of Jasper working clay mixed with flashbacks of Ghost, which Tanya had made me watch when we were younger – not that I had objected very much. I mean, come on, it's Patrick Swayze, for crying out loud.

I mumbled, "Pottery class...right..." Clearing my throat, I tried to shake the images from my head, but without much success. "Umm, yeah. Breakfast. Definitely breakfast." He raised an eyebrow in question, and I shot him a grin. "You're going to need your strength today, Mr. Whitlock. I'm not done with you yet."

I stepped out of the shower then, needing to get the hell out or risk pouncing on him then and there. I thought I heard him mutter, "Fuck. Me," but I wasn't sure. As soon as I was dried off and dressed, I realized that Jasper didn't have any clothes to change into. He had the ones he'd worn last night - the ones we'd danced and sweated in and then left in a crumpled pile on the floor - but somehow I didn't think he'd want to go mold clay in them. I thought for a moment, glancing through the open door of the bathroom, but I couldn't see him, of course. I could still hear the shower, though, and every once in a while, I caught a low murmur that I thought was him singing. I resisted the temptation to go in to find out and instead walked into my closet, pulling out a long-sleeved t-shirt, similar to the one I was wearing, and an older pair of jeans. They were slightly smaller, and I thought they might fit him well.

I took the clothes back into my bedroom, grabbed a pair of socks, and laid it all out on my bed, where he'd be sure to see them. After a bit of thought, I went back to the dresser and rifled through the top drawer, pulling out a pair of boxers as well. I wasn't wearing any, but Jasper seemed to wear them far more often, and I wanted him to be comfortable.

I got ready to go downstairs, but as I got to the door, I doubled back to my bed. Reaching into the nightstand drawer, I pulled out a condom and a travel-sized tube of lube, putting them in my pocket with the intent to leave them on the end table by the couch. I knew that there was no way I'd be able to wait once we were home, and I didn't have any supplies downstairs.

I'm definitely going to need to rectify that situation.

First things first, though - I had to hurry and make breakfast, so I went downstairs. It didn't take me long to have scrambled eggs, hashbrowns, sausages, and toast going, and I was about ready to plate up when I felt Jasper's arms slide around my waist again. I grinned, tilting my head so I could kiss him. He pressed into me, letting me feel that he was still semi-hard, and I groaned, muttering under my breath, "You are such a fucking tease, Jazz."

He chuckled as he spun me around before kissing me soundly. He pulled away just enough to murmur, "I'd say sorry, but I'd be lying. I just can't seem to help myself around you. Thank you for the clothes, by the way."

His eyes were twinkling, and he looked happy, relaxed, and fucking hot as hell. The shirt I'd given him was a light tan, and it stretched across his chest far too appealingly for my own good. The jeans were well-worn and a little big on him, resting low on his hips with a couple of small, fraying holes in places that made me think naughty thoughts - not that I needed any help with that this morning. Kissing me again, he grabbed my ass and pulled me into him. The moan that escaped my lips just made him more insistent, and I had to push him away with a breathless, "Breakfast...Emily..."

He gave a low growl before stepping away to grab plates, handing them to me one by one as I served up the food. I got a couple of forks, gave him one, and walked to the bar. He walked around to the other side of it – part of me was relieved, the other disappointed that he didn't sit next to me, but it was probably for the best.

Once we were finished eating, we washed the dishes quickly. Just as the last of them had been put away, his alarm went off again, alerting us that it was time to go. He kissed me briefly, his fingers running through my hair as he smiled at me. "You ready, beautiful?" I nodded, and we headed out.

We were almost at Emily's dorm when I realized that I had forgotten to put the condom and lube by the couch, and that they were still in my pocket. I stifled a groan, my hands gripping the steering wheel tighter as I tried to quell any thoughts of taking Jasper.

We're picking Emily up, for Christ's sake! Get a grip, Masen!

I felt his eyes on me, but I kept my focus on the road, not wanting him to know what I was thinking, because I had a feeling he would just start his teasing up again – or straight out tell me to pull over somewhere, date be damned. I wasn't about to let that happen - this was important to him... important to me.

Emily came running out to the car as soon as I pulled up, barely giving Jasper the chance to get out before throwing her arms around his neck and hugging him tight. She whispered something in his ear before pulling away with a huge, mischievous grin on her face as she turned to me.

"Hi Edward! I'm glad you came."

I smiled and got out of the car as she walked around it. Her arms were around me in a tight hug once she reached me, and I wrapped my own arms around her shoulders even as I gave Jasper a surprised grin.

"Hey, Emily," I answered, squeezing her with a fond smile on my face.

That girl never meets a stranger, does she?

It wasn't like I knew Emily well, but she always made me feel at home and welcome, like I was part of the family. As I glanced over her head at Jasper, I wished with all my fragile heart that she might be my family some day.

Jasper's grin was amused, but I didn't have time to focus on him because as soon as Emily pulled away, she was chattering. She told us about how she'd walked to the shop because it was so close to her dorm and it was such a nice day out. In the middle of telling us about how she knew about this pottery shop because her roommate worked there and had gotten her a good deal, she turned to Jasper suddenly. "Hey, is that a new shirt?"

I couldn't help but smirk as his cheeks turned a light pink. He looked down at his chest and then over at me. When I shook my head, he smirked in return and said, "Nope, old one…"

I chuckled, and Emily glanced back and forth between the two of us suspiciously.

Jasper cleared his throat and said, "Don't we need to get inside?" as he pulled his phone out of his pocket on the pretense of checking the time.

"Oh!" Emily jumped like she'd been goosed and turned on her heel, calling back over her shoulder, "You coming?"

We fell into step immediately, walking behind her, and Jasper nudged me with his shoulder as he muttered under his breath, "You fucking will be…"

I coughed to try to hide my surprise, but he laughed, and when I glanced at him, he was looking at me innocently. "I see how it's gonna be…" I said, narrowing my eyes at him. "I'm watching you, Mr. Whitlock."

Emily had already disappeared inside when we reached the door. I held it open for him, and his hand trailed along my lower back as he leaned in close to whisper, "You better…don't want to miss anything now, do you?"

"Fucking hell, Jazz…"

I wasn't sure if he heard me or not, because he was already giving Emily a hard time. "Still don't believe in waiting?" He bumped her with his hip, and she giggled. I shook my head, trying to chase away the haze of desire he seemed to leave me in so often.

Fucking focus, man. Seriously. You're spending the day with his sister.

My admonition worked…for a little while, anyway. We talked to the woman at the counter, who welcomed us with a smile and led us through an archway into a studio. At once, I felt at home, somehow. I had never really worked with clay, and I immediately liked the earthy atmosphere of the lumps of clay and rough wooden shelves.

Jasper and I pushed up our sleeves as we took our seats with Emily between us. We were arranged in a semi-circle facing the center of the room, where the instructor's potter's wheel was stationed. I was grateful for the buffer between us; it helped me focus on the woman who entered the room next. Carmen was older and wore her graying hair pulled back into a bun at the nape of her neck. She had a kind smile that she showed often, and she set about showing us all the different tools we would be using during our session.

There were six students total in the class – the three of us, a married couple, and a young woman who looked to be about Emily's age. We all paid attention as Carmen gave a basic demonstration of what we would be doing. She explained that on the first lesson, she would guide us in making a bowl of whatever sort we wanted so that we could get used to the techniques used.

As she spoke, it became apparent that we were signed up for some sort of introductory series. Jasper realized it at the same time I did, and we both glanced at Emily to find her smiling innocently.

"Here, you'll want to put this on." I jumped a bit as a length of white fabric was held out to me, and I turned around to find Carmen smiling at me. "It can get a bit messy."

"Oh." I reached out, taking the apron she offered. "Yes, ma'am…thank you."

Carmen passed out aprons to the other students, and when I stood to put mine on, I felt Jasper's hands brush mine away as he tied it behind my back. "'Ma'am,' hmm? Who knew you were such a gentleman?" he whispered teasingly for my ears alone.

Before I could respond, though, he'd turned to Emily and kicked lightly at her foot. "Just how many lessons did you sign us up for?" he asked.

"Hmm? Oh, six." She spun around quickly, leaving Jasper and I both gaping at her back. "Can you tie this for me, Spurs?"

He was frowning as he stepped over and carefully tied her apron, and I couldn't help but wonder what was on his mind. Was he upset that she assumed he'd want to bring me along five more times? Or was it something else?

I knew I sure as hell was not happy that she'd spent that much money on me – no matter how much it was. I tried to peek around surreptitiously, looking for a sign of some kind, but there was nothing in the studio itself. I'd have to take a look on the way out the door; maybe there was a brochure that would tell me.

I pushed my musings and the threatening melancholy about what Jasper's expression might mean aside as I reached out, tying his apron while he was finishing with hers. He helped soothe my fears, though, when he turned around as soon as I was done and whispered, "Thanks, darlin'." He reached out and squeezed my hand, and I felt a happy smile settle on my lips again.

Within minutes, we were all seated on our stools, and Carmen was distributing lumps of clay. She walked back and forth between all her students, making sure each of us was forming it into a ball correctly. I was focused on what I was doing, my perfectionist nature rearing its head as I shifted the clay from hand to hand, when I heard her say, "Very nice, Jasper," and I glanced over at him.

First mistake.

The sight of his strong hands, kneading and rubbing, his fingers flexing as he manipulated the ball of clay was enough to make my eyes widen as I swallowed hard and shifted on my stool.

Right. No watching Jasper.

I was keenly aware of Emily between us, and when I shifted my eyes to her, she wore that expression I'd seen so often on her brother's face – intense concentration, a little furrow between her eyebrows as she pursed her lips.

It was no help at all to look at her, since I'd seen that expression primarily in bed, so I quickly turned back to my own clay, muttering under my breath. I was determined to keep my attention on my work, which ordinarily would have come easily to me. I couldn't stand not doing something right – and that was especially true in this case, where Emily had paid for this lesson and apparently several more to come for me.

But it was no use.

As soon as I knew what sorts of sights I would see if I glanced to my left, my gaze was drawn there. Sweat began to bead along my brow, and it was a combination of concentration on what I was doing and a futile attempt to avoid looking at Jasper. I suppressed a moan as he flattened the ball on the middle of his potter's wheel, but I couldn't help my grunt when he stuck his thumb into the center slowly.

I adjusted on my seat, trying to cover it as a noise of effort while I mimicked his actions, but he caught me. When I glanced at him again, he was looking down at his clay, but I could tell by the mischievous curve of his lips that he knew what he was doing to me.

I was fucked.

From then, he began purposefully making his movements seductive. His fingers caressed the clay just a little longer than necessary. His tongue just so happened to moisten his lips when I was looking. One of his feet was on the ground, and he casually shifted his hips, drawing my eyes to his crotch, concealed though it was behind his apron.

I see how it's gonna be…

I started to give as good as I got. The next hour or so passed in a blur of wet clay and sensual teasing. I was always vaguely aware of Emily and the other people in the room, but I couldn't seem to help myself. Watching that flash of desire in Jasper's eyes was thrilling…addictive…and I kept growing bolder just to see how he'd react. Of course, so did he.

Eventually, enough was enough, and I had to concede. I was grateful for my apron and the way it hid my painfully hard erection, but it had passed the point of being a fun little torment and was rapidly approaching a real physical need for relief. I met Jasper's gaze, and he gave me a little smirk before it softened into a smile and he nodded.

Yeah, yeah…you win.

If he wasn't as tortured as I was, I must have been doing something wrong. Either way, I knew I couldn't take any more, and Jasper showed me mercy. My head began to clear as we stopped playing our little game. It was as if a fog lifted; I looked around the room, realizing that we were behind as everyone else was getting close to the point of being able to cut the tops of their bowls to make them smooth, and we were both still working on thinning the walls. I chuckled as I looked over at him, seeing that he'd come to the same conclusion.

He winked at me and went back to work. I dipped my fingers into the bowl of water beside me, flexing my shoulders as I worked out the kink that was forming from being hunched over for so long. I managed at long last to concentrate on what I was doing, and I found myself fascinated with the way the clay molded and bent around my fingers. It was so simple – just a light touch was all it took to completely change the shape – and within moments, my attention was completely absorbed by the fledgling bowl I was making.

My head was down, my eyes focused on the clay on my wheel as I pressed gently against the side to widen the top when I heard Jasper groan. The sound drew my gaze automatically, and I sat up straighter when I saw him standing beside his stool. He was arching his back with his hands on his hips as he stretched. The edge of his apron had flipped up, letting me clearly see the outline of his still-hard cock against his thigh from the angle where I sat.

Jesus Christ…

My hand slipped, and I felt the clay collapsing before I could look. "Mother-!" Thankfully, I caught myself before I said what I really wanted to say, but I kept up a streaming rant in my head.

Carmen appeared at my side, the essence of a soothing presence as she said, "Oh, dear…let's take a look." She turned off my wheel, and together, we examined the damage. She gave me a gentle smile. "Well, honey, I can show you how to repair it if you want, but that side will always be a little weaker. Do you want to do that, or would you rather start over?"

"I'll start over," was my immediate answer. I was never one to half-ass anything, and it was my own lack of attention that had caused the mistake in the first place.

My determination kicked into overdrive, and I didn't even look around for the rest of the class as I worked. I quickly pulled the clay from the wheel and formed a ball again, flattening it back on the wheel as I made a hole with my thumb. When I had a rough bowl shape, I turned the wheel back on and leaned forward, watching the subtle lines formed by my fingers in the clay as it spun.

I blew my hair out of my eyes, annoyed by the tickling on my forehead, and I heard Jasper's voice murmur softly, "Here…" before his fingertips brushed against my skin.

"Thanks." I carefully pulled my hands away from my bowl and straightened, glancing over to find him watching me with a fond smile. He had clay smudged on his cheek and nose, giving me the sudden urge to kiss him senseless.

"Come here," I whispered, not even looking around to see who might be watching. He gave me a crooked grin and leaned down, kissing me softly before he stood up again and held out a cut-off wire.

"Thought you might be ready for that," he said, raising his voice to its normal volume. I glanced around at last to see that we were alone for the moment. I could hear voices from the adjoining room, Emily talking to Carmen, but the other students were nowhere to be seen.

"Oh, wow…" I looked around again. "Are we the last ones?"

"Yup." He grinned and stuck his thumbs into his back pockets as he took a step closer and leaned in. His lips brushed my ear as he whispered, "You're fucking sexy when you're all absorbed…did you know that?"

I bit my bottom lip, not answering as I smoothed the top of my bowl. He stepped even closer, moving behind me, and those goddamn hands I'd been distracted by all day began lightly massaging my shoulders as I worked. "Feels good…" I murmured, struggling to keep my focus. I'd worked too damn hard to fuck it up again.

We sat in silence, Jasper's hands kneading my muscles as mine manipulated the clay, and before long, I was trimming the base of my bowl before cutting it from the wheel. I felt a sense of accomplishment as I studied it from every angle, appreciating how balanced I had managed to make it while I tried not to notice the flaws.

Jasper had stepped away from me – I assumed to take a look as well – but when I turned to him at last, his eyes were on me. "What is it?" I asked, only to be cut off when he closed the distance between us and silenced me with a searing kiss. I moaned quietly, my lips parting as I returned his kiss eagerly, relishing that delicious taste I'd longed for ever since we left my bed that morning. His hands went to my hips as he pulled me to him roughly, and he bit my bottom lip with a growl when we heard Emily's voice coming closer.

He stepped away just as Carmen came in the room and said, "Oh, good! You're all set! Did it turn out how you wanted, dear?"

"Yes, ma'am…" I managed to answer, but my attention was slow to shift from Jasper. I could still feel his eyes on me when I looked away, bending down to study the bowl with Carmen and Emily. "So what do we do now?"

Emily grinned at me impishly. "Now Carmen and Eleazar put it away for us, and when we come back next week, we'll trim them and get them ready for firing." From the knowing gleam in her eyes, I could tell that this had already been discussed while my attention was elsewhere, but I couldn't find it in myself to be embarrassed.

At least I wasn't thinking about undressing your brother that time, sweetheart.

I smiled at Emily, thankful that she had no idea what I was thinking. Carmen helped as we put my bowl away to dry and began cleaning up my station. She and Emily were chatting like old friends, and I was not surprised when Emily gave her a hug just before we left.

As we stepped through the entryway again, Jasper and I both reached for a brochure from the counter. I pulled back my hand, smiling at him as he picked one up and folded it, slipping it into the back pocket of his jeans without Emily noticing. He stepped ahead of us and opened the door, standing back so that both Emily and I could pass.

The bright sunlight was a shock to my senses after being in the studio. It felt like we'd been there all day, but the sun was high overhead, beaming down in waves of heat. Once Jasper had joined us on the sidewalk, we all three stood looking at each other.

"So, where to, Lee Lee?" Jasper finally asked as he shifted his weight.

"Lunch time," she said with a grin and then looked down at our clothes pointedly. "Somewhere…casual…"

"Have somewhere in mind?" he asked, reaching out to take my hand.

I couldn't help but smile as I laced my fingers through his, giving his hand a small squeeze. It was such a small, simple gesture, but every time he touched me so casually in front of other people – his family, especially – it seemed huge.

Emily smiled as well, her eyes traveling from our joined hands up Jasper's arm to his face. "I was thinking Sweet Tomatoes? If you guys don't mind pizza, that is."

He grinned at her, giving a little wink that made me wonder if he knew just how sexy it was. "I never turn down pizza. You know that. Is that alright with you, baby?"

I felt the broad smile on my face as I told him it sounded perfect. Emily took Jasper's other hand, and the three of us walked to the parking lot with Jasper in the middle. Part of me felt incredibly silly, but it was a light-hearted feeling that reminded me of being a kid, especially when paired with the beautiful fall day. The temperature was in the sixties, and even though the wet pavement let us know it had rained while we were inside, there wasn't a cloud in sight.

We all piled in my car with Jasper in the back – he insisted on letting Emily sit up front. She begged me to put the top down, so we did, and we cruised the few miles to the pizza parlor with the wind in our hair. I could tell mine was standing up all over the place when we got out and put the top back up – I wasn't about to take a chance with rain on my leather seats, not after all the work Rosalie and I had put into them.

When we were all set, we went in and got a table, but as soon as we'd placed our drink orders, I stood up. "I'll be right back."

Jasper nodded. "Oh, hey…do you know what you want?"

"Nah, anything's fine. I trust you, baby." I leaned over and kissed him, grinning when I saw the goofy smile on his face. Emily giggled, and the table rattled when he kicked her shin.

The sound of her "Hey!" made me chuckle as I walked to the restroom. I'd spent the hours at the studio completely absorbed in what I was doing – or in Jasper, as the case may be – so the trip was necessary. When I was finished, I scrubbed my hands, cleaning beneath my fingernails the best I could before I studied my face in the mirror. I had a small smudge of clay on the side of my nose, and I snickered as I cleaned it off. My hair was hopeless, but I tried to tame it the best I could.

When I deemed myself presentable again, I walked back out into the restaurant to find a glass waiting for me. I sat down and took a sip, grimacing as I set it back down.

"Sorry…" Jasper chuckled. "They only have unsweet. Here…" He held out a little basket of artificial sweeteners to me, and I took two, dumping them in as he told me he ordered a Greek salad for me. "Hope that's alright."

"Sounds great." I smiled at him as I stirred my tea. I sipped it again and smiled, sitting back as I tried to let my stiff shoulders relax.

We all made small talk about the pottery class for a few minutes, and then Jasper frowned slightly and turned to Emily. "Now, Lee Lee…I need to know something, and you better be honest. Got it?"

She arched an eyebrow at him, every bit of her expression and body language showing that she was completely not intimidated. I felt a small grin that I tried to hide tugging at my lips. That little swagger must be a Whitlock family trait.

He pulled the brochure from his back pocket and opened it up, reading a short entry about a six-week series of classes. He ticked of the points one by one and then said, "That sounds a hell of a lot like the one you signed us up for…right?"

"Sounds like it," she said with a noncommittal shrug, sipping her tea.

I frowned and reached out to take the brochure. Jasper handed it to me, and my eyes flew wide when I saw the price tag. "Two hundred and twenty-five dollars? Are you fucking insane?"

I didn't mean for it to come out quite the way it did, but I was stunned. Where the hell would she get that kind of money in college? And why would she spend it on me?

She just watched us with a smug expression before looking down at her fingernails. "If that's what it says…"

"Hey." Jasper's tone brooked no argument, and Emily finally glanced up. I could see that she was trying to fight a smile, but I couldn't tell if Jasper noticed it. "Seriously, little sis…that's a ton of money. What's up? Some rich relative I don't know about die?"

She rolled her eyes and huffed, muttering, "Can't I just do something nice for my big brother?"

He frowned at her. "You can…but wha-…why..? I mean…"

She chuckled suddenly and said, "Your face is priceless, you know." She was wearing his mischievous grin when she said haughtily, "Relax, Spurs. Carmen is Irina's mom."

"Ooh…" He relaxed immediately, shaking his head with relief. He glanced at me and smiled slightly as he explained, "Irina is Lee's roommate."

"Ahh, okay..."

"Still." He narrowed his eyes at her. "You better have gotten a damn good deal…as in as close to free as you can get."

She stuck her tongue out at him and crossed her arms over her chest. "I'm not telling."

"Emily Claire," he threatened.

She arched an eyebrow at him in challenge but refused to say anything else. I could tell they were getting nowhere, so I reached into my back pocket for my wallet as I said, "Here, let me pay for them. You're already letting me crash your date…I don't want you to have to pay extra to have me tagging along."

They both frowned at me in protest, but Emily was the first to speak. "Fine, fine…all I'm paying for is the clay, and I'm helping out there a few hours a week. Happy now, Spurs?" She wrinkled her nose at him.

"Yeah," I said, "but I'm still interrupting. At least let me pay for the lessons, no matter what they cost."

"Not a chance." She gave me that same serious look she'd given Jasper but then cracked a grin. "Seriously, Edward…I got this. I'm just glad you decided to come with us."

Jasper finally spoke up. "How did you know there would be three of us, Lee? I didn't even know myself until…" He trailed off, and I could feel heat on my cheeks as I filled in the blanks. "Until I asked him this morning," he finished at last.

She gave him a shrewd look for a moment and then shrugged. "I didn't know for sure, but I had a feeling that if you asked, he would never say 'no'."

Her eyes darted to mine as her lips tugged up in a grin she fought to hide. Seems she's got your number... I narrowed my eyes at her, but couldn't mask my grin as I shrugged.

"You're wrong, though. I did say no."

I sat back, folding my arms across my chest with my grin firmly in place. Jasper's eyes kept flickering between us, a mildly amused look on his face. Emily's, however, grew wider as she gaped a little. "But...you're here?"

I nodded. She frowned, her eyes going from mine to Jasper's and back again. Jasper chuckled. "I threatened him with calling you."

Her eyes widened further, and she leaned across, smacking him hard on his upper arm as both of us started laughing. Jasper pulled back, making a show of being in pain as he rubbed his arm, and I could hear Emily mutter, "Brat!"

I leaned forward, resting my elbows on the edge of the table as I smiled at Emily. "Seriously, though. Thank you for asking me to come along; I appreciate it a lot." From both of you. I glanced at Jasper, only to find him smiling fondly at me - I reached over and grabbed his hand, squeezing it lightly as I smiled back.

We chatted for a bit longer about the classes we had been signed up for. Though I still wasn't quite sure I approved of Emily paying for me to go, I had to admit that I was very much looking forward to the classes themselves, for many reasons - not the least of which was that it meant more time with Jasper. Of course, it also gave me a chance to get to know Emily better. The more time I spent around them, the more I felt as if this was how it was supposed to be. I really did like Emily a lot, and her easy acceptance and inclusion of me meant the world to me.

After a while, though, Jasper cleared his throat. He frowned as he looked down at his folded hands on the table, glancing over at me with an odd expression before turning to his sister.

"Emily, what's going on with this James guy?"

I had no idea what was going on, or why he would bring up something that appeared to be between them, but his body language and the way he sounded as he asked her had me instantly alert. I sat back, trying to listen and watch, as I had the feeling Jasper wanted me to hear this for some reason. Why else would he bring this up now?

Emily scowled a little and sat back, folding her arms defensively across her chest as she looked straight at her brother. "Nothing's 'going on', Jasper. James just started working at a new job, so he's working long hours at the moment. That's all."

Jasper frowned, his eyes once again cutting to mine briefly before he spoke. "I don't know, Lee. It seems like every time I try to meet him, something mysteriously comes up. It doesn't sit right, Emily."

I tried to keep the frown off my face as I listened. The fact that Jasper would want to meet the guy dating his sister didn't surprise me one bit. The way he spoke as if he'd been there before himself, however, did - and I couldn't quite put my finger on just how, either.

Emily huffed indignantly as she rolled her eyes at her brother. "Stop being so damn paranoid, Spurs! James is just trying to be responsible; why is that such a bad thing?"

Jasper's voice raised ever so slightly as he straightened in his seat. "It's a 'bad thing' in that if he truly were being responsible and was serious about you, then he should be willing to meet your family. Especially when every attempt is being made to get introduced."

Emily's eyes narrowed as she began to lean forward, only to have to sit right back again as our food was delivered to our table. She waited for the staff to disappear before hissing out, "Jasper William Whitlock! James is a sweet, responsible guy and a hard worker. I don't mind it, so why should you?! Now can we please drop this and not ruin an otherwise perfectly good day?"

I watched them both closely, wondering what would set Jasper's alarm bells off so strongly. If what Emily said was true, then some leeway had to be given. However, at the same time, what Jasper had said certainly had merit, too. If it had been me, I would have done everything I could to get around work so I could meet my boyfriend's family. If Emily was my sister, I would definitely want to meet any guy that was serious about her, especially knowing that they were so far removed from the rest of their family. It sounded as if they had made several attempts to get the two of them together to meet, and every time this James character had bowed out.

The more I thought about it and watched as Jasper clenched his jaw repeatedly, the more unsettled I became. I decided to try and change the subject, hoping to give Jasper time to calm down. I grabbed a slice of the pesto splash pizza they had ordered and asked Emily how school was going before taking a bite, placing my other hand on Jasper's thigh. He gave me a small smile and nodded, mouthing, "Thank you," as he grabbed a slice as well.

The conversation moved easily after that, as we ate the rest of the pizza as well as the salads - Jasper had ordered us both Greek salads, while Emily had opted for a Caesar. Emily asked me about photography, stating that she had become very interested since our day at the zoo, and I smiled as I said I had enjoyed that day as well.

"The pictures you took came out really well, by the way." I smacked my forehead as I realized I should have brought them with me to show her. "I'm sorry; I should've remembered them. They really did turn out great. You've got a bit of talent there, I think."

She blushed, saying she would love to see them, and asked if I would show her more. I had just finished eating, so I wiped my mouth and hands on a napkin before leaning my elbows on the edge of the table, tilting my head slightly as I gave her an appraising look.

"Tell you what. I'll teach you more about photography as my way of payment for you giving me the classes on pottery. How does that sound?"

Both Jasper and Emily looked at me with widened eyes. Jasper leaned in and whispered, "You don't have to, Edward, really..."

I turned my head, kissing him lightly on the lips, and whispered, "It's okay, Jazz. I don't mind, and it would make me feel a hell of a lot better about what she did, anyway." I turned to Emily, quirking a brow. "What do you say, Lee?"

She flashed me a grin at the use of her nickname. She appeared to think about it for a moment, and then she nodded as she reached her hand over the table. I took it in mine, and we shook on it as she said, "Deal!" and chuckled.

Once we were all done eating and had gotten the bill, Jasper snatched it before I could even look at it. He paid for everything, giving me a look that clearly said to not even try to do anything about it - so I didn't, figuring I could always even it out later. After Jasper had gotten his card back, he turned to Emily. "So, what's next on the agenda, Lee Lee?"

She wrinkled her nose a little and sighed. "Sorry, Spurs, but what's next for me is my nose in my textbooks - I have a test to study for and a paper to write."

I raised my eyebrows in surprise, and I couldn't help but wonder whether she was telling the truth, or merely trying to give us time together - something I didn't like at all. It wasn't that I didn't want to spend time with Jasper; that was not even an issue. What I minded was the feeling of having taken away their time together. "Do you need any help studying? I doubt your brother would mind helping, and I'm sure I don't."

She shook her head, smiling at me. "No, that's okay, thanks. Irina's going to help, since she's taking the same test I am."

She stood up, and Jasper and I followed suit. She hugged him first, then turned to hug me. I leaned down and whispered, "Are you really going to study, Lee, or are you trying to give your brother and me time alone together?"

She tightened her arms around me and kissed my cheek, whispering back, "A bit of both, maybe? But, yes, I really do need to study for a test and write a paper. I like you, Edward, and I think my brother does, too. You're good for him, you know?"

I closed my eyes, smiling as I hugged her tight. "Thanks, Emily, you really are a sweetheart. I like your brother, too."

When she pulled away, I noticed Jasper staring at us with an odd expression on his face - his brow was furrowed slightly, his eyes darker than usual. He also had a curious half-smile on his lips, which was at once relaxed and nervous. I quirked a brow at him as I put my hand on his lower back, murmuring, "Are you alright, baby?"

He shook his head, as if he was trying to clear it, and looked at me. "Hmm? Oh, yeah, I'm fine..."

I watched him carefully, wondering what was on his mind. He smiled, though, putting his hand on the nape of my neck and squeezing it affectionately before leaning in and kissing me briefly. I hummed, rubbing the small of his back as I wished that it could always be this easy. The day had been fun for the most part, in spite of the minor shadow the James subject had cast on it, and I felt...content.

Emily's chuckle snapped me out of the moment, though, and I shot her a sheepish grin. She winked at me and walked outside, still chuckling. I thought I heard her mutter, "Men..." as she shook her head. Jasper and I followed behind, sneaking glances at each other and chuckling as well.

When we got to the car, Emily was already waiting at the passenger side, one hand on her hip and the other chest-high as she pretended to look at a watch she wasn't wearing, tapping her foot all the while. Jasper grumbled and tickled her as soon as he was within reach, making her squeal and run for cover - behind me. The look on Jasper's face made my eyes widen, and I stepped back, forcing Emily to do the same if she wanted to keep her cover. Her hands clasped my shirt at my sides, and she was sneaking glances past me at an advancing Jasper.

Oh. Shit. This cannot go well.

The look Jasper wore was one of determination - and mischief. He was biting his bottom lip, the right side of it completely obscured by his teeth as he half-smirked, holding out his hands as he flexed his fingers. I held up my hands, hoping he would stop his advance. I had nothing against his playfulness, but something told me it was a very bad idea to have Emily there for it - and to have her find out I was ticklish. Jasper, however, didn't seem to care.

Good thing I know where his weakness lies, at least.

I chanced a glance over my shoulder to Emily, who looked up at me with wide, twinkling eyes as she giggled. I shook my head at her, shooting one quick look to Jasper, who was now grinning widely as he winked at me - his eyes darting to Emily and back. Oh!

I muttered a quick, "Sorry, kiddo..." right as Jasper made to lunge at me. His hands were too low to reach my waist, but high enough to reach hers, so I sidestepped, grabbing hold of Emily as I did. At the same time, Jasper's fingers found their mark as he tickled her mercilessly for about ten seconds and then picked her up in a big hug and gave her a raspberry on her cheek, which made her squeal and giggle even louder.

When he finally put her back on her feet, she huffed, wiping her face dramatically as she mock-glared at both Jasper and me. He stepped up to me and put his arm around my waist, kissing my cheek as he muttered, "Thanks, darlin'."

"Damnit, Spurs, I hate when you do that."

He chuckled and shrugged, not an ounce of shame to be found in him. "I know. Serves you right, though."

She turned to me, pointing her finger at Jasper as she said, "He used to do that all the time when I was little, too. Didn't like it then, either, but it never stopped him."

She rolled her eyes at Jasper as he tilted his head back and laughed. He grinned at me and said, "Yeah, she'd always go running to Mama to tell on me, too... not that I ever really got in trouble for it."

I just shook my head at both of them, mumbling under my breath, "Sometimes I think being an only child wasn't such a bad thing..."

He pulled me closer to him as he kissed my temple - his lips lingering for longer than normal - and when I looked at him, his eyes had saddened a little. I put my hand on his cheek and smiled, the idea that he cared warming my heart.

"Err, guys? I hate to ruin the moment, but I really do need to get going."

Jasper rolled his eyes, giving me a quick kiss before letting me go and turning to Emily with a raised eyebrow. Neither of them said anything, though, and once we were all in the car again, I asked Emily when she would like to work on the photography lessons. She said she wasn't sure, since she was loaded up on course work and then helping out at the pottery place. When we stopped in front of her dorm, I asked for her phone so I could give her my number, instructing her to call me any time if she needed to, and once she knew when she had time to get together.

She hugged me tight, thanking me for the offer, and I thanked her again for inviting me to come along. Both Emily and Jasper got out of the car, talking for a short time before hugging and saying their farewells. He watched her walk into the building before climbing into the passenger seat with a sigh, leaning his head against the headrest as he closed his eyes briefly.

I turned in my seat to look at him and ran my fingers tenderly through his hair. "You're worried about her; aren't you?"

He opened his eyes, turning his head to me as he said on an exhale, "Yeah, I am."

I watched him closely, not for the first time - or the last - wondering what he was thinking and just what he had been through. Part of me really wanted to know - needed to know - but I wasn't going to push him. Not now. Still, I had to at least tell him. I cupped his cheek, my thumb brushing his cheekbone as he stared at me - his eyes troubled and murky. I leaned in, kissing him lightly on the lips before speaking softly.

"I'm not like this James guy."

Or Paul, I added in my head. I had a feeling, though, that saying his name out loud - in this moment - would have done more harm than good, so I kept quiet. He gave me a half-smile as he nodded.

I bit my lip as he continued to watch me, his eyes darkening in color as his expression changed slowly from troubled to determined. I wanted to tell him I wouldn't hurt him like Paul had or how he worried James would hurt Emily. I wanted to tell him I loved him too much to ever harm him in any way. I wanted to tell him that he didn't have to worry or fear anymore.

I didn't, though - partially out of cowardice because this weekend was turning out so much better than I had thought it would and I really didn't want to ruin it, and partially because Jasper grabbed my neck and pulled me in for a searing kiss, effectively chasing all thoughts out of my head.

His fingers tangled in my hair, his grip tight as he ravaged my mouth - my own hand finding its way into his blond curls, scratching his scalp lightly. We both moaned, and when his hand went down my side, ending at my once again raging hard-on, I almost lost it - especially when he began to apply pressure while his lips blazed a trail from my mouth, along my jaw, and down my neck. I groaned, tilting my head to give him more room, muttering a low oath of "Jesus fuck, Jasper!" when he bit down on the join of my neck and shoulder after having moved the collar of my shirt.

My breathing was ragged, and it was with great effort that I pulled away, cupping his face in my hands - the burning desire I saw in his eyes did nothing to help my resolve any. I had to swallow several times before I could say anything, mostly because he didn't relent in his actions as he continued to palm my cock.

My voice was low and husky by the time I was able to speak. "Jazz, God knows I want you - as in right fucking now - but not here, in a car, parked in front of your sister's dorm of all places. In broad daylight, no less."

He gave a low growl before bringing me in for another fierce - albeit brief - kiss. When he pulled away, he did so just far enough to be able to speak. "Take me home, Princess. I believe you said something about not being done with me yet."

With that, he shifted a little so he could whisper in my ear, his breath hot against my skin, "I want you to fuck me senseless, beautiful."

While that had been exactly what I had in mind, hearing him say it sent shivers down my spine - especially since he accentuated his words by licking the shell of my ear before biting down on my lobe. I let out a shuddering breath as I croaked out, "Fucking hell..."

He sat back in his seat with a self-satisfied smirk, his left hand still on my thigh. I shook my head in a futile attempt to clear it as I started the engine; the rumbling vibrations of the seat did nothing to curb my desire. I pulled away from Emily's dorm more quickly than I intended, and Jasper's husky chuckle over the squeal of my tires made me roll my eyes.

"Your fucking fault," I muttered under my breath as I checked the rear-view mirror.

"Damn right it is." His pinky brushed against me, the tip tracing the outline of my cock, and I shifted my hips as I adjusted.

God damn, I wish we were home.

It was a simple thought, but it was the only one in my mind as I made the short drive back to my house. Jasper kneaded my thigh, squeezing and rubbing, tormenting me with occasional touches and whispers of what he wanted me to do to him. I couldn't concentrate, not even enough to hold onto his words and make sense of them. My only feelings were desire, my only thoughts of him, and as soon as I pulled into my customary spot across the street from my house, I left the engine running and reached across the console, pinning Jasper against his seat as I kissed him hungrily.

He moaned, his lips parting as his tongue met mine, and my hand slipped between his thighs. He parted his knees as my fingers molded around his dick, my fingertips teasing his balls, and then his teeth clamped down on my tongue, holding it in place as he trapped my tongue ring. He jerked his head, pulling it roughly, and then let me go, gritting his teeth as he growled, "For the love of…take me inside and fuck. Me. Now."

For a moment, it was as if I were paralyzed. I was frozen in place, unable to move as my mind and body warred around my overwhelming need to have Jasper now and the many, many reasons why it would be better to take him inside. In the end, it was no sense of decency or propriety that sent me in motion – it was an image of Jasper's bare ass as his elbows dug into the top of my couch and his back arched while I pounded into him.

"Oh, fuck," I managed to mutter. I clenched my jaw and yanked the keys from the ignition, slamming the door before I strode purposefully across the street. I didn't look to see if he was following, but I knew he was. He wanted this – wanted me – just as much as I wanted him.

And I was going to make sure he got everything he was asking for.

As soon as we were through the door, I dropped my keys somewhere and grabbed the waistband of Jasper's jeans, pulling him behind me. His smirk was amused but was far outweighed by the sheer want in his eyes. I turned us around, walking him backward, and when I felt him bump into the back of the couch, my fingers found the buttons of his jeans and began popping them open.

My lips melded with his, our tongues brushing as whimpers and moans added cadence to our panting breath. His hands were working on my jeans just as frantically, and I briefly considered kneeling down to take off his shoes. But as I pushed his jeans down over his hips, my hands met bare flesh where his underwear should have been, and all rational thought fled.

I needed him. Here. Right the fuck now.

Without warning, I spun him around, his jeans hanging around his knees as he gave a low chuckle that turned into a moan when I wrapped my hand around his cock and began stroking him. My other hand fumbled with my pants until I finally managed to work them down my thighs. I reached down and pulled out the condom and lube that had been burning a hole in my pocket all day, thankful as hell that I'd made preparations that morning because I wasn't sure I would've made it upstairs without exploding…and I didn't just want to cum. I wanted to fuck Jasper and make him writhe and squirm and yell out my name.

My hand had never stopped stroking him, and I could hear his little noises, the catches in his breathing, the grunts of longing. His hips were rocking, his ass clenching, and he was a fucking sight to behold. But getting what we both wanted meant letting him go, even if it was for just a moment, so I finally forced my hand away. His hands went to the back of the couch as he braced himself upright, his head hanging down.

When he heard the tearing of the condom wrapper, he glanced over his shoulder and muttered, "Edward? What-?" in a confused voice. He saw me rolling the thin latex down my length and whispered, "Holy fuck. Never mind. Just…"

He didn't finish, stepping back so that his ass was pressed against my hand still holding my cock. The sight of his eagerness strengthened my own, and I messily tore the top off the packet of lube and poured some in my palm, stroking my length to make sure I was well-coated before my hand went straight to Jasper's ass.

My fingers teased his entrance, pressing inside before pulling away again while I held my body close to his. My lips kissed all along his neck and jaw, traveling to his ear, where I whispered, "My goddamn turn…you fucking want this, don't you? You want me to fuck you just like you fucked me. Well, you're about to get it…" I kept up a steady stream of promises, relishing the way his eyes closed and his lips parted as he soaked in my words. He shivered when I told him how hard I wanted to fuck him, and his groan was loud and longing when I told him just how I wanted him to cum.

It was such a turn on – watching the way he responded to my words – and I licked my lips, a half-formed idea springing to mind. "Put your hands on the couch," I murmured, using the same voice I'd used at his shoot – a little commanding, a little caring.

My suspicions were confirmed when he bit his lip, his eyes still closed as he immediately did what I asked.

Oh hell, fuck yes.

He liked this, liked me telling him what to do, and my cock hardened even further from the way I liked it, too. "Kiss me," was my next request, and his face turned, his lips finding mine as his tongue flicked at my tongue ring. His ass rubbed up and down my length, making my eyes roll back in my head, but I wanted to see how well he would listen. I pulled away far enough to whisper, "Stay still." He stopped at once.

My elation was quickly overshadowed by the realization that what he had been doing felt damn good, and I smiled crookedly as I whispered, "Okay, do it again." A smile flitted across his lips as he pressed back against me, his hips swaying seductively as his ass rubbed my cock.

"Fuck, you look good, baby." My voice was strained as I lifted his shirt, appreciating the sight and feeling of what he was doing as long as I could. "Bend over."

I pushed the shirt up as he leaned forward, putting his elbows on the back of the couch when I told him to. As soon as he was ready for me with his feet spread on the floor, I stepped between them, pressing into him in one smooth motion. I was buried in him, my world nothing but tightness and heat, fragranced with the scent of Jasper and filled with his hissing moan. My hands were on his hips, gripping his bare flesh, and I watched the way the muscles of his shoulders bunched and moved beneath my shirt as I willed myself not to cum then and there.

I was breathing shallowly, steadying myself, when I saw Jasper's arm begin to flex and move. Even though I couldn't see it, the knowledge that he was stroking himself made my breath catch and my desire flare. It was too much for me to take, and my hips began to thrust of their own accord. Jasper grunted with the first pass, his arm speeding as he pressed up on his toes to give me greater access.

I pulled nearly all the way out and slammed back into him with the sound of flesh slapping. My toes curled as I held myself against him, and then my hips were pounding into him as his rocked back to meet me. He had to brace himself against the couch with both hands, and his head arched back as his face turned toward the ceiling. I could hear his breathless voice whispering encouragement, broken words mixed with his moans and pleas for more – harder, faster, again, more.

My fingers tangled in his hair, and he growled, shoving his hips back against me so hard that I had to take a half-step to stay on my feet. The feral noise excited me, awakening something deep within, and I gave myself completely to my more carnal urges. I was grabbing his shoulders, his hair, anything that gave me more leverage as I took him, claiming him as I leaned forward, biting his shoulder and marking him as mine.

I wanted to see him, to watch his eyes roll back in his head and see those goddamn beautiful lips calling out my name, so I pulled away suddenly and turned him around. He pouted at the loss, but I didn't give him a chance to complain as I pressed my body flush against his and kissed him heatedly. I bit his lip before saying, "Take off your boots."

His eyes flashed with confusion, but he did as I commanded, scrambling to bend down. He lifted his pants leg, and his fingers worked quickly, making short work of the laces of first one boot and then the other. He kicked them to the side and stood up, running his fingers through his hair. His lips twitched as he studied mine, a dead giveaway that he wanted to kiss me again, but I made him wait. When it became clear that he wasn't going to act until I told him what to do, I smiled and said, "Take off those goddamn jeans and kiss me like you mean it. Now."

There was excitement in his blue eyes that let me know he was thoroughly enjoying our simple little game. In no time at all, he was nude except for his shirt, and his lips were devouring me, consuming me with his kiss as his hands roamed down my back and cupped my ass, his fingers teasing my entrance as he squeezed and pulled me to him.

More.

I guided him to the couch, and he gave a half-smile as he understood. He perched on the corner of it, his legs lifting as they wrapped around my waist.

I pushed back into him, moaning loudly as soon as our bodies were joined once more. One of my hands gripped his thigh while the other wrapped around his lower back. Our lips never ceased, our tongues reveling in the taste of passion and heaven and lust. He reached backward, supporting himself with one hand while his other arm was around my shoulders, holding me close.

His cheek brushed mine as our motion bounced his body, his stubble scraping against my skin as I'm sure mine did his. Again and again, I heard him breathlessly whisper, "Edward…" but it took me a moment to realize I was moaning his name as well. Our bodies were heated, our skin slick with the sweat of our exertion, and I could feel Jasper's hard cock gliding along my belly as I took him on the back of my couch.

The whole scenario had a surreal quality to it, my directions and the location bringing the photo session with Jasper back to mind as I marveled at how close I'd come to having all of my fantasies and dreams with him fulfilled. The thought was fleeting, though, and it wasn't long before my whispered words became cries as I thrust into him harder and harder, quickening as I felt my thighs tighten. I came violently, my cock twitching as I struggled to catch my breath. I slowed and then stopped, my head resting against his shoulder as I felt him press gentle kisses against my temple.

The caring gesture brought a soft smile to my face, especially considering the way I'd taken him had been anything but loving. The feeling of his hard-on still digging into my abdomen brought me back down to earth, and I turned my face, kissing him again as I began to stroke him. He inhaled sharply through his nose and his fingers bit into the skin of my shoulder as he held on tighter.

He broke our kiss, his head falling back with his eyes tightly closed as his feet dropped to the floor. His thighs squeezed my hips as I increased my attention, loving the feeling of his silky skin over his steel shaft. He whimpered and let out a shaky breath when the edge of my thumb brushed the rim of his head, so I did it again. And again. I was squeezing and twisting, pumping him rhythmically, and then it was his dick fucking my hand, and I just held on for all I was worth.

"Oh, fuck!" He called out, his whole body tense and motionless for a moment before with a final thrust, he growled, "Edward!" His release was powerful, coating our shirts and my hand as I stroked him through it.

When he finally opened his eyes, I was smiling, unable to help myself as always when faced with him being so passionate, so uninhibited. He watched me briefly before giving me a half-smile and pulling me close, kissing me senseless. When he finally pulled away, we were both a little unsteady, chuckling at the mess we'd made of ourselves – again.

My jeans were still around my knees, and there were growing wet places spreading across our shirts as Jasper stood, groaning when his legs protested. He looked down and grimaced, then pulled his shirt over his head by the neck, balling it up so that the mess was mostly contained. I did the same, using mine to clean us both up as best I could. "Shower?" I asked when I'd finished.

He cocked his head to the side and gave me an appraising look. "How about a bath?"

My smile was slow and soft as I nodded. "Even better." I winked at him, and he rolled his eyes, but I caught the faint blush on his cheeks. I fucking loved that I could do that to him. He was so masculine, so confident most of the time, and every time his emotions showed that way, it was like I made another tiny crack in the walls around his heart.

As we gathered our clothes and climbed the stairs toward my room, I wondered just how many cracks it would take to bring them crashing down around us.

In my bathroom, I took the dirty clothes and tossed them into the hamper before disposing of the condom and washing my hands. I knew we'd left a bit of a mess downstairs, but I'd worry about it later. For now, all I wanted was to enjoy my time with Jasper and avoid wondering what in the world had changed that let him be so…free. So open.

And hope like hell that it didn't switch back the way I'd seen him do a few times before.

Don't think that way.

I kept up the little reminder, nearly giving myself a pep talk as I set about getting our bath ready. Jasper was quiet, but the atmosphere of the room was one of contentment and serenity, so I wasn't worried that he was getting ready to bolt.

I started the water, making sure it was the right temperature before I let the tub fill. When I stood up, I was surprised to find Jasper had taken out the candles and was lighting them before scattering them all around us. I watched him with a smile as he moved so freely around me, like he felt at home - I certainly hoped he did. He looked up at me with a shy smile, which made me chuckle after what we'd just done, and he shrugged, placing the candle he had lit on the shelf above the toilet.

Grabbing a couple of fluffy towels, I left them on the counter so they'd be in easy reach once we were done. When the water had risen sufficiently high, I turned the tap off and motioned for Jasper to get in first. As soon as he was settled, I stepped in, aiming to sit across from him as I had done the last time. His hands shot to my hips, though, and he pulled me down to sit between his legs with my back to him. He slipped his arms around my waist as I burrowed closer to him with a soft hum, hugging his arms to me.

I could definitely get used to this.

He nuzzled my neck, placing a soft kiss below my ear, and muttered, "Much better." He gave a content sigh, and I couldn't help but smile. We sat like that for what felt like hours, just relaxing, watching the candlelight flicker as we talked about nothing at all, silly things, sweet things, getting-to-know-you things, all the while touching, caressing, feeling - all innocent, but satisfying none the less.

Finally, when the water got too cold and we had already warmed it up again twice, we got out of the tub. Jasper grabbed a towel and began to dry me off with a tenderness that made my throat catch. After he was done, I returned the favor, memorizing this moment so I could keep it in my heart a little longer. I didn't want the night to end, and I worried that it would very soon. I tried to push those thoughts away, though, and focused on the moment.

He pulled me into a warm embrace as soon as I was finished, his lips finding mine, and I felt loved, cherished - even if neither of us had said the words, it was still there. I was sure of it. Several long minutes later, he pulled away with a soft hum and a smile on his lips - his hands caressing my back with long strokes.

"Do you have any plans for dinner, sweetheart?"

I grinned lazily as I realized that he didn't want today to end either, and I wanted to cheer and ask him to stay the night again - but I didn't want to risk upsetting him and ruin things.

"No, no plans. Whatever you want to do is fine with me, baby. You're welcome to hang around awhile longer, if you'd like." Forever, if you wanted. I added, "I don't want you to feel like you're stuck here, though..."

I frowned slightly as I remembered he had left his car at the bar the night before. He seemed to think along the same lines as he said, "Want to pick up my car, maybe get some take out before coming back here?"

He looked hopeful, and it took everything in me to not out and out tell him I wanted him here, with me, always. I nodded instead. "Thai okay?"

He chuckled and nodded. Forty-five minutes later, we were back at my place, his car parked behind mine and Thai food in hand as we walked through the door. After we had gotten to his car, I had a fleeting moment of irrational panic as we drove off, thinking that now that he was in his own car, he'd head home instead of coming back with me. He drove behind me, and a quick glance in my rear-view mirror had alleviated any worries I had about whether he wanted to spend more time with me.

After we were done eating, I told him to grab a movie while I took care of the empty cartons and the few dishes we had used. I stood by the fridge, wondering whether he would want wine or beer tonight, when I felt his arms slip around my waist and I smiled.

"Hey, you. Was just about to come ask what you wanted to drink. I've got beer, or I could open a bottle of wine?"

I turned to look at him, and I had to stifle a chuckle when I saw the serious expression on his face, though his eyes had a mischievous twinkle in them. He kissed me lightly on the lips before telling me to go ahead and open a bottle of wine.

I smiled, leaning back into him as I lifted my hand, tangling it in his hair so I could hold him there and kiss him again. I simply could not get enough of him, ever - and I hoped I never would. He hummed softly as I finally pulled away, smiling lazily at me.

He went to grab a couple of wine glasses while I popped the cork on a bottle of Cabernet Sauvignon. We walked to the den, and I grabbed the remote before sitting down, putting the bottle down to let it breathe for a while. Jasper sat down on the end of the sofa, while I took my usual spot. He gave me an odd look, but I just grinned and tugged at his jeans to indicate I wanted him to put his feet in my lap.

He did so with a surprised look on his face, which soon turned to blissful contentment when I began to massage his feet after hitting play. I chuckled when I saw he had put Wedding Crashers in, and I looked over at him with a quirked brow. He cleared his throat, blushing a little when he admitted that he "may or may not have a bit of a crush on Vince Vaughn." I glanced at the screen - all the while continuing to gently massage his feet - and tilted my head as I watched Vince and Owen Wilson.

My lips twitched as I glanced back at Jasper, who was watching me intently. "I like Owen better...I think it's something about the blond hair." I winked at him and grinned when I saw his blush get deeper.

I patted his leg to get him to move so I could pour us a glass of wine and handed him his glass. He waited until I had my own glass in hand before raising his and saying in a quiet voice, "To us."

His eyes were intent on mine, and I couldn't help but wonder if he meant something with those two simple words. I repeated the toast, taking a sip of the wine as I kept watching him. He was blushing again, and I would have done anything to know what he was thinking at that moment. Anything - except asking him. I was afraid to, worried that by raising the question it would spur the inevitable moment of his leaving - and I really didn't want him to. So instead, I just drank my wine and continued watching the movie with him.

After it was over, I was sure he'd say he had to leave, but he surprised me by asking if I wanted to watch some Stargate Atlantis again. Fuck yes, I wanted to watch more episodes with him - anything that meant he would be with me longer - so I smiled as I put in the next disc. When I got back to the couch, Jasper was sitting upright and asked me to sit with him. Instead of sitting next to him, though, I stretched out on the couch, resting my head in his lap.

He chuckled as he looked down at me, running his fingers tenderly through my hair. "Comfortable?"

I all but purred as he kept running his fingers through my hair, gently massaging my scalp as he did. "Mhmm, very, thank you."

He shook his head with a grin as he reached for the remote and hit play. We sat through three episodes like that, just enjoying each other's company as we watched Sheppard and McKay kill Wraith, rescue stranded colleagues, and save Atlantis once again. Jasper seemed to be getting as into the show as I was, which made me happy for some reason.

All through the show, he was touching me in some way - either stroking my hair, or caressing my arm, or skimming his fingers lightly over my scruff. It felt comfortable - cozy. And for a moment, I could see this happening every night - just us, being together in this simple way. God, I wanted that - wanted him.

I felt Jasper yawn, and I looked up just in time to see him shake his head as if to clear it. He smiled apologetically at me as he cupped my jaw, his thumb lazily skimming over my lips briefly before resting on my cheek. The look on his face made me certain that he was about to say he was going to have to leave, but I didn't want him to. I bit my lip as I considered asking him, finally thinking, "To hell with it," because the worst he could do was say 'no', and I had already had him here for one night.

I reached up, my fingers tangling in his curls as I pulled him down - forcing him to almost bend in half, but he did it willingly - and kissed him deeply. Our mouths parted just enough for me to whisper against his lips, "Will you stay the night again?"

My eyes searched his, and I held my breath as I waited for him to respond. The smallest of frowns creased his brow as he tilted his head, making him look uncertain. I wanted to retreat, unwilling to hear him say he didn't want to be here with me another night, so I hastily said, "It's okay...I understand," as I tried to sit up and shift to the other end of the couch.

He stopped me dead in my tracks, kissing me with abandon for several long minutes before finally pulling away with a mischievous grin and whispering, "Oh, no...I'm staying. I was just wondering how much sleeping you planned to do..."

My eyes widened at his words and a groan escaped my lips as he reached down and palmed me through my jeans. One final, rational thought ran through my mind.

He's staying...

It was the middle of the night, and I couldn't sleep. Jasper had fallen asleep after we'd made love - slowly, sweetly, heavenly - for God only knew how long, but I just...couldn't. My mind was racing and would not leave me in peace. Deciding that there was only one thing to do, I got up as quietly as I could and walked to the chair by the window. There was no moonlight, so I turned on the small lamp on the table, which cast just enough light for me to write by if I angled myself just right, so I picked up my journal and pen and settled in. I wrote down everything that came to mind, just letting the stream of consciousness flow in the hopes of finally being able to get some rest. Every now and then, I glanced up at my bed and smiled as I caught sight of Jasper sprawled across it.

All my hopes, dreams, fears...everything was put down, and it was an hour later before Jasper stirred. He was on his stomach, and he lifted his head, turning this way and that in confusion as he mumbled, "Edward?"

I put my pen and journal down on the little table and turned off the lamp, padding quietly back to bed and sliding under the covers. He turned to me with a slight frown, looking half-asleep as he asked where I had gone.

"I was just writing, baby...go back to sleep."

He hummed, snuggling up to me - he was out within seconds, and after a few minutes, sleep was at last able to claim me.

The next morning - in spite of the fact that I hadn't slept much - I was the one to wake up first, and I turned to lie on my side so I could watch Jasper in his sleep. He looked so
peaceful as he was lying on his back, one arm slung above his head, which was tilted slightly toward me. His other hand lay splayed on his stomach, and the covers were bunched at his hips, one leg bent and sticking out from under them.

I drank him in, not wanting to miss a thing while I had the opportunity to study him openly. His lips were slightly pouty, making me want to lean in and kiss him, but I held back, not ready to wake him up just yet. His eyes were moving behind his eyelids, and every now and then his lips would twitch into a soft smile before jutting out again, leaving me wondering what he was dreaming about - hoping that it had something to do with me.

How long I lay there watching him, I had no idea, but finally I couldn't resist any longer and slid next to him. I snuggled close, molding my body around his as I put my knee between his legs and placed my arm across his waist. My smile widened when he showed signs of life, giving soft grunts as he stretched out and opened his eyes sleepily. His hand went immediately to my hair, and he scratched my scalp as he murmured, "Good morning to you, beautiful. How long have you been awake?"

His drawl was more pronounced, and the sound of his sleep-filled voice was music to my ears. I kissed him lightly. "Good morning, yourself. Hmm...I'm not sure. Didn't look at the clock...no idea what time it is, actually."

His chuckle was slightly throaty and utterly endearing. I marveled at how it felt to wake up to him these past two days. The very first time I'd woken up to him had been followed by a jolt to the system when he knocked me off the couch, but yesterday's wake-up was a jolt of a different sort. The fact that he had woken me the way he had made my skin flush even now, and it was something I wanted to have happen again. But waking up to him this time, when he was the one to rise last from his slumber, and to see him both look and sound so mellow and just damn sexy...

How much longer can I wait to tell him I love him? That I'm in love with him? That I never want to let him go?

My melancholy questions must've shown on my face because he traced my lower lip with his thumb, giving me a small frown as he said, "Hey…you okay, baby?"

Whatever he needs.

I nodded and smiled softly, threading my fingers in his hair as I pulled him to me and kissed him tenderly. He smiled as well, returning my kiss with the same unhurried care. Our breath was fucking terrible after pesto pizza and Thai food, but waking up with Jasper and having him want to hold me and kiss me and cuddle with me made something so small seem completely unimportant.

"I'm great," I said when we finally parted. I gave him one more small, chaste kiss with a grin as I said, "Fucking starving, though. Someone wore me out last night."

He chuckled, shrugging as he raised an eyebrow unapologetically. "You didn't seem to mind so much."

"Nope, sure didn't…" I bit my bottom lip and pressed my body as close to him as I could, our morning wood brushing together as I whispered huskily, "And I'm hoping you might do it again soon."

Then I rolled away, tossing the covers back onto him as I stood up and stretched. When I looked over my shoulder at him, it was to find him watching my ass with his lips parted. His eyes traveled slowly up my body, making me feel both exposed and goddamn sexy by the time they reached my face.

"Tease," was all he said.

I laughed softly and went to the dresser, pulling out two pairs of flannel pants. "Want a shirt?" I asked.

"That depends."

"On what?" I straightened and looked over to find him lying sprawled on his side in my bed, wearing nothing but a cocky smirk.

Jesus fucking Christ…

"On who it's for." He stretched out on his back, his hand roaming down low on his abdomen as he teased me. "For me, yes. You, I kinda like half-naked."

"Shut the fuck up." I laughed, throwing the pants at his head. He caught them and sat up, laughing with me as we both pulled them on. I grabbed t-shirts for us both and walked to the bed, leaning down to whispered, "Better cover up those piercings, Mr. Whitlock, unless you want me to ravage you again when I should be feeding you."

I dropped the shirt in his lap, not waiting for an answer. I turned around and walked out of the room, pulling my t-shirt on as I went.

"You never fucking play fair," he muttered before I heard him following behind me.

I was already at the refrigerator when he walked into the kitchen, yawning as he scratched the back of his head. Something in me ached at the sight. As badly as I wanted this – to wake up to him every morning, to make breakfast together, to make love whenever the mood struck, to be together, always – I couldn't shake the feeling that it wouldn't last. It had been a distant fear, a shadow in the back of my mind all weekend, but it seemed to be stalking me, growing closer and stronger as the minutes passed.

Despite my misgivings, our mood was light as we bantered and cooked together. Jasper fried bacon while I chopped onions and chives before pulling out eggs and milk to mix up some omelettes. Just like before, we worked so smoothly together, seeming to know instinctively when the other needed a fork or a pot holder. He shredded cheddar cheese to top them off, and then he slipped behind me, putting his arms around my waist and kissing my neck as I waited for them to cook with spatula in hand.

It was there, with Jasper's arms around me and everything I wanted seemingly in reach that I realized what the shadow was – it was the strange distance between us. It was the fact that I couldn't ask Jasper a simple question like, "Hey, so you seem a lot more comfortable now. Why is that?"

No matter how well I knew him or how great we were together, we just weren't there yet, and that fact was killing me. I folded the omelette, my eyes on the pan as I wondered how, exactly, to go on from here. Instinct told me to just go with it, let him become more comfortable, and we would grow together. But what if we didn't? What if I let it go and it created a gulf that we couldn't cross, and we eventually grew apart?

I watched as the omelette set and then pulled it up. Jasper held out a plate immediately, and I glanced over, smiling at him. The satisfied, content look in his eyes nearly took my breath away, and I forced my sabotaging thoughts out of my mind.

Don't make trouble where there isn't any.

The words popped into my mind in Aunt Livy's chiding voice, and my smile became more genuine. We took our food to the bar, where Jasper sat across from me. He hopped up immediately, though, and went to the fridge. "OJ or milk, babe?"

I felt a strange little tickle in my chest at the casual question, making me roll my eyes at myself. "OJ…thanks."

He pulled two glasses out of the cabinet and filled them both with orange juice. He walked over and handed me mine with a wink before he finally said, "No problem," and took a sip of his juice.

How the hell does he make everything he does so fucking sexy?

I shifted on my barstool, my playful mood returning just as quickly as it had fled, and I idly wondered if my moods were becoming as mercurial as Jasper's. He took his seat again and lifted his fork, taking his first bite. His eyes flew wide. "Holy fuck! This is fantastic!"

I laughed, shaking my head as I took a bite as well.

"Yeah, yeah, I know…" he muttered. "Don't do anything if you can't do it well, right?" I raised both eyebrows as I shrugged, and he put both hands on the bar, leaning across the counter and tilting his head. My eyes closed, but instead of his lips meeting mine, he stopped and whispered, "I have to say I damn sure haven't found anything you don't do well yet…"

He kissed me chastely and sat back with a grin while I rolled my eyes. Internally, though, I was swelling with pride and fighting the urge to strut because he thought I was good in bed.

I snorted at that, and he laughed like he knew exactly where my thoughts were – and he probably did. We finished breakfast and washed the dishes, and I bit my lip as he dried his hands, sure that he would say at last that he had to go home.

I breathed a sigh of relief when, instead, he said, "Hey, Sox have a doubleheader this afternoon because of the delay yesterday, yeah?"

"Yeah," I answered, struggling not to grin like the idiot I was at the implication that he might stay to watch it.

We spent the day being lazy, just hanging out and talking. I did some laundry and showed Jasper the darkroom, where he did decidedly naughty things to me while insisting I keep working. I knew the pictures I was working on were likely ruined, but I couldn't find it in me to care. I was thankful that they were some I'd taken around town, just some shots experimenting with color and light.

Having Jasper in the darkroom with me was exciting. In the utter darkness, I would suddenly feel his hands trailing up my chest, pinching my nipples before dipping lower and rubbing against my semi-hard cock. His lips roamed my neck, his breathing heavy and loud in the silence of the room, and then he'd be gone again. He was such a goddamn tease, and he was loving every minute of taunting me.

Of course, so was I.

When I turned the lights back on, he looked at me with an innocent smile, and I couldn't help but laugh. I slipped my hand into the waistband of his pants, pulling him to me as I murmured, "Right…so no more darkroom for you."

I kissed him as he pouted, swearing to be on his best behavior next time, and I teased him, telling him that he damn sure wouldn't get to come back if he was going to behave. He snickered and smacked my ass while I wiggled my eyebrows before turning to lead him back upstairs.

By the time the Red Sox lost the first game to the Yankees, it was mid-afternoon, and we were hungry again. I'd been growing cautiously optimistic that Jasper would stay for both games, and that feeling was solidified when he said, "So what are you feeding me for dinner, Princess?"

I gave him a hard time, calling him a presumptuous ass, but he just grinned, completely confident that I didn't mean it – and he was right, of course. We had a couple of hours before the second game would start, so we decided to raid my refrigerator to find something to cook rather than ordering in or going out.

Forty-five minutes later, we sat down at the bar again, this time to a meal of ginger chicken and fried rice. Jasper gave me shit about being in love with Asian food, and I just shrugged, taking a bite instead of telling him who I was really in love with. It would have been so easy to say it, so freeing to finally tell him, but I knew deep down that it was a bad idea. Our weekend had been amazing, and the last thing I wanted to do was send him running for the hills.

I got our drinks this time – a couple of bottles of beer – and as I took my seat across from him again, I felt a strong urge to tell him about Alistair. It wasn't even a relationship I'm-scared-and-this-is-why sort of thing. It was more that Alistair had been an extremely important part of my life – a defining part, really – and everyone who was close to me knew about him. They knew what had happened between us, how I felt, how he felt, and they knew the scars our relationship had left me with. It felt wrong that Jasper – who was rapidly becoming the most important person in my world – didn't have a clue. He knew the name and that he was an ex-boyfriend, but that was pretty much it.

I ate mechanically and then idly played with my bottle, turning it on the top of the bar as I struggled with myself, trying to decide whether I should bring it up. With a half-sigh, half-growl, I opened my mouth…

And the fucking phone rang.

Thank you, Universe, for saving my ass.

I didn't know what Jasper would have said, how he would have reacted, but with a cosmic interference like that one, I had to figure it wasn't the right time.

Or, you know, just someone calling you.

Either way, I stood up and walked to the phone on the wall with a sense of relief mixed with frustration. People rarely called the house phone – at least, people who actually knew me – so I assumed it was a telemarketer or someone equally annoying. "Masen residence," I answered, feeling vaguely ridiculous with Jasper sitting right there. I'd always felt silly answering that way being the only one living in the house, but it was one of the few lessons on manners I remembered learning from my mother, so it stuck.

"We-ell, listen to you, Mr. Rich and Fucking Proper."

I laughed out loud at the sound of Emmett's snooty voice. I could feel Jasper's eyes on the back of my head, so I turned around and leaned against the counter, crossing my arms over my chest as I mouthed "Emmett" and balanced the phone between my ear and shoulder.

He nodded with a small smile and went back to his food as Emmett kept giving me shit. I finally interrupted, saying, "Yeah, yeah…whatever. What's up?"

"I haven't talked to your ass in a week. That's what's up. What the hell have you been doing?"

I took the phone in hand again, my other hand going to the counter as my fingers curved under the lip and rubbed at the rough texture. I knew damn well what I'd been doing most of the week – moping about Jasper, which is how I'd ended up going out with Kate on Friday night – but I couldn't very well tell Emmett that with him sitting right there.

"I've just been busy. I have a life, you know, fucker."

"Oooh, so you have a life now, too! You're moving up in the world."

"So did you just call me to be an ass, or did you actually having something to say?"

He laughed, and the taunting tone left his voice as he said he really did just call because we hadn't talked and he was worried about me. He told me a little about his work – he was a construction superintendent, and it sounded like things were just as crazy as always for him. I was mostly listening, but I was distracted when Jasper stood up and took our dishes to the sink. He began running water, and I pulled the phone away, saying, "Just leave those, baby. I'll get them."

He glanced over and smiled at me, telling me it was no problem, and it took me a moment to realize there was dead silence on the other end of the line.

"'Baby,' huh? When did this happen?"

I cleared my throat and shifted against the counter. "I don't know." Jasper was busy and the water was running, but I felt cautious, unsure how much I should say.

"Well…that's cool, man. Good to hear. So are you going to be bringing baby next time you come down?"

"Fuck off," I muttered. Emmett just laughed. I let him have his fun and then said, "Oh, hey, glad you mentioned that, actually…I went to see Zafrina on Friday, and we decided I need some shots in another city. I brought up Memphis, and she agreed that it would be perfect to get a Southern town in there." I felt the grin on my face as Emmett cheered.

Then he said, "We both know what it really is. You just want to hit up Beale again. It's like a goddamn meat market for you."

I glanced to my left, watching Jasper as he washed the dishes with that little furrow between his eyebrows. "Nah, not interested."

"Damn…you like him that much?"

Jasper felt my eyes on him and looked up, giving me a smile before he turned back to rinse the plate. "More than that."

Emmett didn't say anything. The silence over the phone stretched before finally, he cleared his throat. "Well, shit, man…that's awesome. So when do I get to meet him? You bringing him down?"

"I'm not sure. I'll ask him." In truth, I'd forgotten all about the trip the moment Jasper walked up to me at that club. I'd spent the weekend in sort of a fog, protected from the real world until Emmett's call made it creep in again.

"Oh." Emmett sounded puzzled. "Oh. You haven't told him yet?"

"No, not yet."

"Gotcha. Well, umm…guess I'll let you go, then. Sounds like you have a lot to talk about. So when are you flying in?"

"I'm not sure. Haven't booked the flight yet – I wanted to talk to you first and see what worked for you." I explained that Zafrina hoped to see the pictures at our next meeting in three weeks, so it would need to be soon. We kicked around a few dates and in the end decided that I would fly to Memphis in about a week.

"Awesome! Can't wait to see you. I'll try to get a couple of days off that week so we can do some shit."

"Sounds great, man. I'll probably stay a week."

"You know Tanya's going to shit a brick. She's dying to see you. You better call her soon."

I smiled at the mention of Tanya – as close as Emmett and I were, there was a different sort of relationship with Tanya and me. She had always been sort of nurturing and mothering, despite being pretty close to my age, and I felt a stab of guilt that it had been awhile since I talked to her. "I know. I will, promise. Hey, tell Rosie to fuck off, alright?"

He laughed. "She told me to send you her love, too. She's going to be nearly as excited as Tanya. I swear to God if you weren't gay, I'd worry about the two of you."

I snorted, and we exchanged a few more words before we ended the call. I hung up the phone and walked to Jasper where he'd sat back down at the bar after finishing the dishes. His back was to me, so I stepped up behind him and wrapped my arms around him as I leaned down to kiss his neck. My hands moved up his chest, and I felt the metal of his piercings against my palms as I bit my bottom lip. "Thanks…you didn't have to do that."

"I know." He turned to look at me, giving me a smile before he kissed me. "I wanted to. So what's up with Emmett?"

I could tell by the look in his eyes that he was curious, and I knew what it was likely about, so I briefly explained what Emmett had said about work before I told him about the trip I needed to take. He listened quietly as I told him about the pictures I wanted to take for my book and about how I wanted to see my family again. My fingertips rubbed soothing circles on his chest, and I kissed his temple. I whispered softly, "I was wondering if you might want to go."

He stiffened in my arms and didn't say anything. I placed a kiss on his cheek and squeezed him closer before I let him go and went to sit on the other side of the bar. His eyes followed me, but I resisted the urge to break the uncomfortable silence. I watched countless emotions flicker and war in his eyes before he smiled at last.

"I think I'd like that. But you're going in a week, right?" His voice was quieter than usual, lacking some of the exuberance I'd come to expect, but I relaxed when he didn't sound upset. At my nod, he frowned. "Might be kind of tough with work, but I'll see what I can do."

My beaming smile must have been a little over the top because he laughed and shook his head, rolling his eyes at me. "I take it you like the sound of that?" he teased.

"Fuck yes," I murmured, leaning across the bar to kiss him. His lips parted mine, his tongue brushing against the stud in mine languidly, and when we opened our eyes again, I was happy to see that his were clear and untroubled.

We left it at that, going back into the den to watch the second Red Sox game. When they finally beat the Yankees, both our eyes flickered to the clock over my mantle, and we sighed as one. Jasper chuckled and stood up, stretching before he offered his hand to me. "I guess I better get going, beautiful."

I took his hand and stood, tugging him closer to me to kiss him fully. I hated the thought of him leaving. Everything had felt so natural, so right, all weekend, and I had this irrational fear that if he walked out the door, it might never feel that way again.

Still, I knew he had to work, and he needed some sleep – which, if I were being honest, he was unlikely to get if the two of us were in bed together again. The rational part of my brain knew that he also needed clothes and his own toothbrush, though I'd given him a new one to use here, and to feel settled and ready for work in the morning. The irrational part of my brain wanted to club him over the head and drag him upstairs by the hair, caveman-style.

In the end, I just helped him gather up his things, which had somehow been strewn all over the house, and walked him to the door. His whispered, "Wish I could stay," was a goddamn symphony to my ears, and I smiled broadly as I said I wished he could, too.

He slipped his arms around my shoulders and pulled me close, my arms encircling his waist as we pressed our foreheads together. "I had a great time," he murmured before kissing me. "Sorry I took up your whole weekend."

I couldn't tell if he was serious or not, so I just rolled my eyes. "Don't be ridiculous. It was the best weekend I've had in a very long time."

His smile was soft and sweet, innocent somehow, and I couldn't help but kiss him. We spent a few long moments lost in each other, gentle kisses and caresses saying what our words couldn't as we both seemed to hold onto our weekend as long as we could. At long last, we parted, and with a few more whispered words, he was gone.

I watched him drive away and then went inside, turning off the lights as I climbed the stairs to my empty room. I picked up my phone from the bedside table and saw that I had seven missed calls from Emmett.

That explains why he called my house…

Stripping out of my clothes, I fell into bed and waited for my nightly text from Jasper. Even though it was still very early – for me – I didn't want to face my house without him in it, not after the last couple of days. I knew it would seem lifeless, cold, and I wanted to hold onto this feeling of bliss a little longer.

I wasn't sure how much time had passed with me just staring at the darkened ceiling above, but I jumped when my phone beeped in my hand and the screen flashed.

Made it home. Fucking miss you. And thanks…

I smiled, rereading the words a few times before I shook my head at the silliness of his thanks. I thought for a moment before slowly typing back my response, scared to say too much – or too little.

I fucking miss you, too. You're welcome anytime. And thanks…

I couldn't say all the things I was thankful for, which made me wonder if maybe that's what he was trying to say as well.

All I could do was hope.

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Chapter 13 ~ Chapter 15

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