A/N: Happy Birthday, ICMezzo! We wanted to do something special for you, and hope you have a wonderful day.
As ever, we do not own Twilight - it owns us.
ooOoo
Tease
Nursing's what I've always wanted to do, ever since I was a kid and saw how they took care of my grandmother. Today, however, I wonder whatever possessed me to pursue that career.
I glare at the pink-and-rainbow-colored scrubs Tanya handed me a few minutes ago to replace my soiled ones. With a sigh, I undress, pulling the pink ones on.
Couldn't she have found something else? I know there's more blue or green ones. Anything but these...
Walking back on the floor, I can hear the giggles. I close my eyes.
I'm not out, but I doubt they're unaware.
Commiserate
The elevator doors open as I’m walking away, and a flash of auburn is my only warning before Edward steps out. He takes one look at me, hears the giggling, and his face darkens.
“Bitch,” he mutters under his breath. Then he sighs, looking up at me as he reaches up to put a hand on the back of his neck. “Sorry about that. Tanya’s… well, let’s just say she likes to taunt people. Men, especially.”
I shrug. “Doesn’t matter.”
“I’ve got a pair of blue ones if you want. The rainbows are cute on you, though.” He winks teasingly.
Curious
Quirking a brow, I can't help but wonder at his comment, but he merely chuckles and walks off to get changed.
Any chance to decide to take him up on his offer is lost when an alarm goes off and the next couple of hours are spent speeding from one task to the other without pause.
It isn't until Edward and I are both taking a breather, inhaling lukewarm coffee and stale donuts, that I’m reminded of the scrubs – and his earlier remark.
For the first time since I started working here three weeks ago, I really look at him.
Interruption
He catches my gaze and returns the look with interest. Something about his expression captures my attention, and I tilt my head slightly, trying to decide what it means.
Before I can say anything, I catch a hint of flowery perfume just before Tanya reaches between us to grab a donut. “Thank god,” she mutters. “I’m starving.”
Edward rolls his eyes and drains the rest of his coffee. “See you guys back on the floor,” he says, tossing his empty cup in the trash.
Tanya watches him walk away. Just as he turns the corner, she says, “Such a waste.”
Puzzle
Frowning, I drain my cup as I wonder what she means. I know better than to ask. If there's one thing I've learned while working here, it's that Tanya's a gossipmonger, on top of liking to tease people.
My curiosity must be clear on my face, however, because she comes closer in mock-conspiratorial fashion and stage-whispers, “Let's just say that none of us girls have to worry about any inappropriate touching from him.”
She eyes me up and down with an overly appreciative look and smirks, “You, on the other hand...”
Throwing my cup away, I leave without a word.
Beer
I watch Edward surreptitiously throughout the rest of my shift. I pick up on the subtle differences in the way some of the others react to him, and it makes me hurt for him.
And pisses me off.
He takes it all in stride, though, laughing and conducting himself with a confidence I admire.
When I finally get off nearly an hour late, I run into him on his way out as well.
“How’s it going?” he asks with an easy smile.
“Pretty good.” I shrug as I pull on my jacket. “Hey… you wanna grab a beer with me?”
Warning
As I'm weaving my way back to our table with our beers, I see him watching me with a thoughtful expression.
It isn't until I sit down and we've both had a couple of sips that he looks at me with a half-teasing, half-serious grin. “Better be careful, Jasper, wouldn't want people at work to get the wrong idea. I am gay, after all.”
Keeping our gazes locked, my lips twitch as I fight a smile. “I was kinda hoping you'd say that,” I say quietly as I lean forward.
This time, it's Edward's turn to quirk a curious brow.
Cautious
“Why?” he asks with a guarded expression.
I take a drink of my beer, setting the bottle down before meeting his gaze. “Because I am, too.” My heart speeds as I admit, “And I want to get to know you better.”
Instead of smiling as I expected, he furrows his brow and turns his bottle in his hands, studying it intently.
Fuck.
Just as I realize he must not be interested in me, he clears his throat. “There’s this guy at work. James.”
I frown. “Sorry, I didn’t realize you had a-”
“No,” he breaks in with a bitter laugh.
Misconception
Taking a sip of his beer, he sighs, leveling his eyes with mine. The calm in them surprises me, but I quickly realize that it's a front.
“He worked on our floor for a while, not long before you started, actually. We went out for drinks a couple of times after work – just to unwind, you know? James's straight as an arrow, but when Tanya got wind of it, she... Well, let's just say that James couldn't handle the implications of her ‘teasing’ and transferred.”
He smiles softly. “I don't want to see something like that happen to you, Jasper.”
Admission
“What a bitch!” At my outburst, Edward’s eyes widen before he laughs.
“That she is.” He shrugs, taking another pull from his beer.
“Isn’t that sexual harassment or something? She should be fired!”
Edward’s eyes harden. “Maybe. But it’s not like James was willing to fight for a guy from work he had a couple of beers with.”
Snatching up my bottle, I drink deeply, hoping it will soothe my seething rage. When I lower it, Edward’s watching me.
“I’d rather talk about you.” He gives me a gorgeous, crooked smile. “Have to admit I like what I’ve seen, too…”
Reciprocate
Ducking my head, I blush as he compliments my work ethic. It only gets worse when he leans in and chuckles.
“Hmm… interesting. I kinda like that look on you,” he teases.
Looking up at him through my lashes, I flash him a grin – one which widens when I see his pupils dilate slightly in response, his lower lip disappearing between his teeth.
“Damn, I like that one on you, too. Wonder when else you make that face…” I say, only half-joking.
He blinks twice, then laughs. “Jesus, you certainly know how to make a comeback. Not shy, are you?”
Talk
I laugh, shaking my head. “Usually am, actually. Not shy, I guess, but… not that… forward? You seem to bring it out in me.”
His eyes brighten wickedly. “Wonder what else I can bring out in you.”
I snort, nearly spitting out my beer. “Who’s not shy now?” I finally manage.
He chuckles and relaxes into his seat. “I had to get you back. Truce?” He holds up his bottle, and the clink of glass-on-glass seals our momentary agreement.
“So what brings you to Seattle?” he asks.
“Family, mostly. My sister moved up here with her husband and my nephew.”
Beat
We sit there for a while, talking about where we're from, our families, other people at work. All fairly basic stuff. Neither of us is really paying much attention to anything other than our conversation until I notice Edward suddenly tilt his head to the side. I can't help but ask, “What?” when a slow grin slides across his lips.
He shakes his head and says, “Nothing, really. Just that song...”
We both sit and listen for a while as “Hotel California” plays in the background. Raising an eyebrow, I ask, “Eagles fan?”
He shrugs, sipping his beer. “Yeah, kinda.”
Link
At my questioning look, he gives a small smile. “They were my dad’s favorite. He used to listen to them all the time, so I grew up knowing all the words. It was one of the few things we had in common.”
His expression is sad, almost wistful, making my voice softer when I ask, “Was?”
He nods, peeling the label from his bottle. “He died when I was in high school.”
I don’t know what else to say, so I tell him I’m sorry, and he smiles before saying, “Thank you.”
Conversation stalls for a few minutes after that.
Change
“You hungry?” he asks as he finishes his beer.
I nod.
“You're off tomorrow, right?”
I nod again, wondering what he's up to.
Edward grins, managing to look both mischievous and hopeful. “Me, too.”
There's silence for a few seconds, and then, “Want to go out and grab something to eat? Maybe go to a club or something? There's a great one downtown, and-”
Chuckling, I hold up my hands to stop the tide of words. I'm both flattered and amused at his rambling. “Sure. Dinner's on me, though.”
He narrows his eyes. “Fine. The rest of the night's mine.”
Comfortable
Edward insists on taking me to a barbecue place he knows after learning that I haven’t had any good ribs since I left Texas. I can’t help but laugh as he wipes barbecue sauce from his face, but my laughter dies when he licks it from his fingertips.
He catches my eye and winks, making me shake my head, chuckling. Determined not to focus entirely on my physical attraction to him – which is considerable – I ask what he likes to do on his days off.
“I hike a lot. Play games, read…” He leers at me. “Dance with hot guys.”
Taunt
Rolling my eyes, I chuckle. He tells me about the trails he enjoys best and the things he's encountered on some of his hikes.
We end up sharing a double-fudge sundae, and when he reaches for the maraschino, I snatch it away with a pseudo-innocent grin, popping it in my mouth, stem and all. He stares at me, and I have to work hard not to grin as I ply the stem, tying it in a knot.
More so, when I open my mouth, the twisted stem on the tip of my tongue.
“Fuck me,” he breathes, his eyes blazing.
Club
We leave our jackets in the car despite the cool night. As I twist to toss mine into the backseat, he murmurs, “Don’t worry… I’ll keep you warm.”
My gaze meets his from only inches away, and I enjoy the way his eyes drift down to my lips before he grins at me. “Come on.”
We both climb out of the car, and he walks around the front to meet me. He puts his hand on my lower back, and I decide I like it as he guides me through the crowded club, leading me straight onto the dance floor.
Dance
I don't recognize the song that's playing, but as soon as Edward turns me so that we're facing each other, I find I don't care.
His hands rest lightly on my hips at first, while I've got mine on his chest and shoulders. It isn't long, though, before we're both moving with the music, letting it take us where it leads – closer and closer together until we're hip to hip and chest to chest, my arms wrapped around his neck.
I can feel his moan as we move. It mirrors my own.
Edward's cheek's against mine, his breathing irregular. “Jasper?”
Heat
My hand travels up his side, tangling in his hair as I hum. “Mmm?”
He accepts the silent invitation, wrapping his arm low around my waist as he pulls me even closer. “You’re gorgeous,” he murmurs, running his nose along my jaw. His lips press against my cheek, just at the corner of my lips.
I smile, closing my eyes as I let his body guide mine. When my eyes drift open, I lean closer, tilting my head as if to kiss him. I stop just before our lips would meet. “So are you,” I answer, grinning when he groans.
Late
How long we dance, I'm not sure, but I enjoy every minute of it. Edward is a great dancer and a bit of a tease – something I can appreciate. Not that I don't pay him back in kind.
I might just be enjoying that more than I probably should, but the longer I'm in his arms, the less I care.
Finally, Edward tightens his fingers on my hips, pulling me closer – my back flush with his chest as I rest my head against his shoulder. His lips are at my ear. “Getting late... d'you want to get out of here?”
Invite
The cool night air is welcome on my overheated skin as we walk out of the club. Edward keeps me close, his hand slipping under my shirt while his fingertips tease the skin just above my belt.
When we reach the car, he leans me against it and moves to stand between my legs. His hands on my hips, he presses close to me. “Hey,” he whispers inches from my lips.
“Hey,” I answer with a lazy grin, sure I know where this is going.
“Wanna go hiking with me tomorrow?”
“Huh?”
He pulls back slightly and smirks at me.
Accept
“Umm, okay? Sounds like fun.” I frown, hearing the uncertainty in my voice.
Edward's grin widens. “Great! Leaving bright and early, so you might as well stay at my place instead of going all the way home.”
There's something playful both in his tone and his eyes that has me wondering. Tilting my head, I ask, “What about clothes?”
“Oh, I think I have a spare set of scrubs you can fit in,” he teases and smirks.
Narrowing my eyes at him, I try not to smile. After a beat or two, I manage, “As long as they're not pink.”
Surprising
When we turn into a neighborhood, I glance over at Edward in surprise. He doesn’t seem to notice, as he just keeps driving until he stops in front of a small house complete with white shutters and an oak tree. “Here we are.”
I arch an eyebrow curiously, and he apparently mistakes my meaning.
“Jasper… all teasing aside, nothing has to happen. I just want to get to know you.”
I can’t help but grin at that as I lean across the console. “That’s good to hear,” I whisper, “but I hope you’re not set on that ‘nothing happening’ bit.”
Explore
A grin spreads across his lips as he pulls his keys from the ignition. “Tour?”
I nod, following him.
The charge in the air seems to change the moment he opens the door to his home and lets me inside. Neither of us comments on it as he gives me the grand tour, starting in his kitchen, which has a rustic feel to it, despite the modern appliances.
The rest of the place is much the same. Very homey and rustic, while still having all the modern day luxuries.
He hesitates at his bedroom door, his hand on the knob.
Confession
“Umm… want a drink?”
My eyes widen at his stalling. “Sure?”
At the question in my voice, he smiles ruefully. “Sorry,” he mutters, and opens the door.
I shake my head at his erratic behavior and peer into the room. The sleek lines of the dark furniture mix with the patchwork quilt on his bed to create a unique atmosphere. I start to tell him I like it, but his arms wrap around me from behind before I can.
“Sorry,” he whispers again, his lips ghosting across my neck. “I haven’t had anyone in here yet. Just… caught me offguard.”
Drink
He hands me a beer before taking a seat cater-corner from me at the kitchen island. I'm surprised to see him blush as he smiles at me and apologizes again.
Taking a swig, I shake my head. “Don't worry about it. You really haven't-?”
He coughs, blushing brighter. “I'm not fucking frigid or anything. Just never here. When I got this place a couple of years ago, I made a promise to myself to keep this home – share it only with people I'd want to have in my life, you know? I don't know, I just...”
I nod slowly, pondering.
Long
His words give me pause, making me wonder what exactly he sees in me. Considering this is our first date – on the spur of the moment – I don’t think he’s exactly pledging his undying love.
Pushing the question away to consider later, I ask one that’s easier for me. “How long’s it been?”
He chuckles, licking his lips before taking a sip of beer. “Awhile.”
When I don’t respond, he adds, “A few months for… ahh… fun. A couple years for anything serious. You?”
“Some ‘fun’ in Texas. Nothing since I moved here. I’ve had trouble meeting people,” I admit.
Turn
Edward nods, sipping his beer. “Job can do that to you... especially with the hours you've been keeping.” Nudging my knee with his, he glances at me through his lashes. “You've met someone now.”
Letting out a breathy chuckle, I nod. “S'pose I have, at that.”
Tilting his head, he frowns, serious all of a sudden. “Just make sure you remember to take time for yourself, Jazz. Don't let the job define you. You deserve better than that.”
My eyes widen in surprise.
He blushes again, quickly taking a swig of his beer.
“I'll keep that in mind,” I murmur.
Move
“Sorry,” Edward mumbles, staring at his bottle before giving me a crooked grin. “I sound like some old man, don’t I?”
I shake my head, smiling. “Nah, I like it. You sound like you care.”
“I do.” He runs his fingers through his hair. “I’ve been watching you at work,” he admits sheepishly. “I didn’t know you might be interested, but… well, I like what I saw.”
“I like what I see, too,” I tell him quietly, draining the last of my beer and standing up. “Guess we should sleep, since we’re getting up early,” I tease, lightening the mood.
Show
After draining our beers, Edward tosses both bottles into his recycling bin before leading me back upstairs. He stops by the guestroom door, directly across from his bedroom.
Standing there for a long moment, neither of us says anything. If I'm completely honest, I have to admit I'm a little disappointed. On the dance floor, things had gone well, and I'd thought that it'd translate out of the club, too.
Looking into Edward's eyes, though, I can see desire warring with indecision. I can't help but wonder at his past, certain there's a reason.
He bites his lip.
Fuck it.
Kiss
Remembering how comfortable we were all night before we got to his place, I summon my courage. Hooking my fingers in his belt loops, I urge him closer. When he comes without hesitation, I smile.
“Good night,” I breathe. I tilt my head, ducking slightly to capture his lips in a soft kiss.
He moans, his hands sliding up my arms, and his reservation cracks. He pushes me against the wall, pressing his body to mine as his tongue parts my lips, eager and insistent.
He swallows my curse as I kiss him hungrily, my hands drifting to his ass.
Breathless
How long we stay like that, locked in this kiss in the middle of his hallway, I don't know.
My heart thumps in my chest, my senses completely invaded by Edward as he presses against me, ravaging my mouth like he can't get enough of me.
I know the feeling, because all I can think is how I want more of him, too.
Finally, he breaks away, panting heavily. “Oh, fuck, Jasper...”
He rests his forehead against mine as we both struggle to regain our breath. I thrust my hips into his ever-so-slightly, and he groans, attacking my lips again.
Quilt
Never breaking our kiss, Edward pulls me away from the wall, walking backwards as he guides me. I’m so disoriented that I don’t even realize where we are until he pulls at my hips, making me sit down hard.
My hands run over his patchwork quilt as he steps back far enough to rip his shirt off, and my eyes feast on the tight body I’d only imagined as we danced. He’s lean but solid, subtle definition just begging for my tongue.
When I reach for him, he grins and shakes his head. “Let me see you, too,” he murmurs.
Reveal
Grinning, I pull my shirt off as slowly as I can, keeping my eyes on his. Seeing his eyes widen and darken as my body's revealed to him sends a shiver through me.
He licks his lips. “So fucking beautiful,” he breathes as he pushes me back against the bed. Our lips meet at the same time our chests touch. We both groan, shuffling up the bed.
My hands trace every bit of skin I can find, even venturing where it's hidden as I slip them into his pants to cup his ass. His hips buck into mine in response.
Plea
The room heats with our moans and our bodies rocking together. His skin warms with my touch, and he kisses me all over, licking and sucking hungrily as his lips roam my chest. He bites lightly at my nipple, teasing it with the tip of his tongue.
“Oh, fuck!” I call out, my hands balling into fists to keep from ripping his pants off.
He grinds his hips into mine, making me whimper. He smiles and kisses me hard, whispering against my lips, “I want you. All of you.”
I nod, my fingers tangling in his hair. “Oh god… please.”
Button
I push him away far enough to reach his pants and make quick work at getting him rid of them.
As soon as Edward kicks them off the bed, he starts to work on doing the same for me. He cusses when the buttons won't open fast enough for his liking, making me chuckle breathlessly.
My amusement’s quickly forgotten when he finally undoes them all and shoves his hand down them, wrapping his warm fingers around my shaft.
My head lolls back as he pumps me. “Oh fuck, please...” I moan.
I need more.
Need him.
However he wants me.
Desperate
Sliding down my body, he tugs at my pants, and I lift my hips so he can get rid of them. Before they hit the floor, he’s back, lying on his belly between my spread legs. He bites at my thigh, making me squirm before he licks my balls and blows playfully.
“Jesus… just… oh, fuck…” I can’t form a coherent thought, much less a sentence, so I thread my fingers in his hair, tightening them as I beg silently.
He chuckles and whispers, “This what you want?” His hot tongue teases my head, running all around the sensitive ridge.
Tense
My eyelids flutter closed as Edward's lips wrap around my shaft, slowly taking all of me. I try to breathe, but it's staggering and stuttering with his rhythm.
Scratching his scalp lightly makes him hum around me, and I almost lose it right then. My muscles tense and bunch as he gets me closer to the edge.
Suddenly it all... stops. His mouth is replaced by the too-light touch of his fingers as he looks at me.
Edward's eyes are blazing. “God, Jasper... please tell me you want me. Need to feel this,” he squeezes my cock, “in me. Please?”
Visual
“Yes,” I whisper simply as I reach for him. He climbs back up my body, straddling my hips, and the heat of his ass against my cock makes me groan.
“You like that?” he teases, rocking his hips back and forth, letting his cock brush mine.
I can’t speak. I just moan my approval as I pull his lips to mine harshly, kissing him with abandon. When I feel a little more in control, I break our kiss to say, “I need to see you, though. Please, Edward…”
“Whatever you want, baby,” he murmurs.
“Ride me?”
“Oh, fuck me… yes…”
Squeeze
My fingers stretch Edward, preparing him, but it's his hands that roll the condom down my shaft and then lube and squeeze it before he settles on top of me.
When he finally slides down my cock, I let out a long groan, gripping his hips so tightly I fleetingly worry I'll leave bruises.
He pries my fingers off them, twining them with his as he sets a slow pace, rocking back and forth.
“You’re so fucking beautiful to watch like this,” I murmur.
He blushes, picking up speed. “You’re too coherent,” he teases. “Guess I need to try harder…”
Pull
My hands roam Edward’s body, teasing his nipples, stroking his cock. I can’t get enough of him – the way he feels, the way he tastes and smells. His cock pulses in my hand, growing more rigid under my attention.
With some unspoken agreement, I move to sit up just as Edward reaches for me. His arms wrap around my shoulders as mine encircle his waist, dipping and teasing, finding where our bodies are joined before my hand moves back to grip his shaft.
Our bodies writhe and jostle, making it difficult to kiss, but our lips meet again and again.
Grind
His fingers are tangled in my hair, his eyes closed, his mouth open, his brow furrowed in concentration.
Fucking gorgeous is the only thought besides that flickers through my brain as he grinds into me.
My hold on him is tenuous at best, his skin so slick with sweat it's hard to get a grip.
It takes me a second to register him hoarsely chanting, “Pleasepleaseplease,” his neck straining as his pace becomes irregular – frantic.
Refusing to give up the connection, I do my best to get him there.
His lips crash to mine, catching his wail as he comes.
Watch
His entire body stiffens, freezing in place before he shudders and relaxes against me. The way his ass tightens around my cock makes me whimper, and he chuckles shakily as he kisses me. “Sorry, baby,” he breathes.
He throws back his head, taking a deep breath as he begins moving again. I find myself looking down, taking in our bodies, glistening with his sticky release. My cock appears and disappears, and the sight of our union holds me transfixed.
My hands on Edward’s hips, I guide him, helping him find a rhythm that has me crying out against his neck.
After
My arms are wrapped around him so tight, he barely has room to move, but he doesn't seem to mind. He holds me just as close as we both rest our heads on the other's shoulder. I can't help but smile when he breathes lightly against my sweat-slicked skin, making me shiver.
We sit like that for a while until we're both coming down from our highs, and I reluctantly let him go.
He surprises me by taking my face in his hands and kissing me slow and deep, his eyes closed. Resting his forehead to mine, he whispers, “Wow...”
Caress
I don’t answer. I just reach up, brushing his sweat-dampened hair from his forehead as I smile at him. Taking his chin lightly between my thumb and forefinger, I pull him forward to kiss him softly.
He hums, his hands roaming my back as he returns the kiss. When we part, he offers me a smile before climbing slowly out of my lap.
He waits until I dispose of the condom, then holds his arms open to me. I slide over beside him, resting my head on his chest as we work to catch our breath.
“Thank you,” I murmur.
Hesitant
We lie like that for a few minutes before something nags at me – his earlier words coming back to me. I wonder whether he wants me to stay, or if I should leave, even if that's the last thing I want to do.
He squeezes me lightly, pressing his lips to my furrowed brow, whispering, “What's wrong?”
Shaking my head, I lift it slightly to look at him. “Nothing... I just...” My eyes automatically flicker from his face to the door and back. “Wasn't sure if you'd want me to stay,” I admit quietly – hesitantly.
He pulls me to him.
Reciprocal
“Don’t go,” he says quietly.
My smile is automatic, even as I ask if he’s sure.
He nods and kisses my temple, his arms tightening around me. “I know we don’t know where this will go…” he begins.
“I’m not asking for-”
He lifts himself slightly, grinning down at me as he cuts off my interruption. “But I like where it’s starting,” he finishes.
My cheeks heat, and he leans down to brush his lips against mine. “And I’m not just talking about the sex,” he teases. “I like you, Jasper. I like having you here.”
“I like you, too.”
Idle
He grins crookedly, kissing my temple again. “Well, that's good. Would suck, otherwise.”
He tickles my side, making me squirm and narrow my eyes at him. Tilting my head up with his finger under my chin, he leans in, kissing me tenderly.
He combs his fingers through my hair and asks me about some of the scars on my body, and
I let myself relax into him again.
I smile when I tell him about some of the downright stupid antics my friends were up to as kids – and always managed to get me involved in, much to my detriment.
Sleep
We lie awake for a few hours, sharing stories and asking simple questions. When I woke up this morning, I never would have imagined finding myself here, in another man’s arms, much less his bed, but the more I get to know Edward, the more I want to know.
I find myself smiling at compatibility and desire I haven’t known for so long, and I can tell by the light in his eyes that the hope is there for him, too.
Eventually our words and caresses give way to yawns and apologies, and we fall asleep in each other’s arms.
Edward insists on taking me to a barbecue place he knows after learning that I haven’t had any good ribs since I left Texas. I can’t help but laugh as he wipes barbecue sauce from his face, but my laughter dies when he licks it from his fingertips.
He catches my eye and winks, making me shake my head, chuckling. Determined not to focus entirely on my physical attraction to him – which is considerable – I ask what he likes to do on his days off.
“I hike a lot. Play games, read…” He leers at me. “Dance with hot guys.”
Taunt
Rolling my eyes, I chuckle. He tells me about the trails he enjoys best and the things he's encountered on some of his hikes.
We end up sharing a double-fudge sundae, and when he reaches for the maraschino, I snatch it away with a pseudo-innocent grin, popping it in my mouth, stem and all. He stares at me, and I have to work hard not to grin as I ply the stem, tying it in a knot.
More so, when I open my mouth, the twisted stem on the tip of my tongue.
“Fuck me,” he breathes, his eyes blazing.
Club
We leave our jackets in the car despite the cool night. As I twist to toss mine into the backseat, he murmurs, “Don’t worry… I’ll keep you warm.”
My gaze meets his from only inches away, and I enjoy the way his eyes drift down to my lips before he grins at me. “Come on.”
We both climb out of the car, and he walks around the front to meet me. He puts his hand on my lower back, and I decide I like it as he guides me through the crowded club, leading me straight onto the dance floor.
Dance
I don't recognize the song that's playing, but as soon as Edward turns me so that we're facing each other, I find I don't care.
His hands rest lightly on my hips at first, while I've got mine on his chest and shoulders. It isn't long, though, before we're both moving with the music, letting it take us where it leads – closer and closer together until we're hip to hip and chest to chest, my arms wrapped around his neck.
I can feel his moan as we move. It mirrors my own.
Edward's cheek's against mine, his breathing irregular. “Jasper?”
Heat
My hand travels up his side, tangling in his hair as I hum. “Mmm?”
He accepts the silent invitation, wrapping his arm low around my waist as he pulls me even closer. “You’re gorgeous,” he murmurs, running his nose along my jaw. His lips press against my cheek, just at the corner of my lips.
I smile, closing my eyes as I let his body guide mine. When my eyes drift open, I lean closer, tilting my head as if to kiss him. I stop just before our lips would meet. “So are you,” I answer, grinning when he groans.
Late
How long we dance, I'm not sure, but I enjoy every minute of it. Edward is a great dancer and a bit of a tease – something I can appreciate. Not that I don't pay him back in kind.
I might just be enjoying that more than I probably should, but the longer I'm in his arms, the less I care.
Finally, Edward tightens his fingers on my hips, pulling me closer – my back flush with his chest as I rest my head against his shoulder. His lips are at my ear. “Getting late... d'you want to get out of here?”
Invite
The cool night air is welcome on my overheated skin as we walk out of the club. Edward keeps me close, his hand slipping under my shirt while his fingertips tease the skin just above my belt.
When we reach the car, he leans me against it and moves to stand between my legs. His hands on my hips, he presses close to me. “Hey,” he whispers inches from my lips.
“Hey,” I answer with a lazy grin, sure I know where this is going.
“Wanna go hiking with me tomorrow?”
“Huh?”
He pulls back slightly and smirks at me.
Accept
“Umm, okay? Sounds like fun.” I frown, hearing the uncertainty in my voice.
Edward's grin widens. “Great! Leaving bright and early, so you might as well stay at my place instead of going all the way home.”
There's something playful both in his tone and his eyes that has me wondering. Tilting my head, I ask, “What about clothes?”
“Oh, I think I have a spare set of scrubs you can fit in,” he teases and smirks.
Narrowing my eyes at him, I try not to smile. After a beat or two, I manage, “As long as they're not pink.”
Surprising
When we turn into a neighborhood, I glance over at Edward in surprise. He doesn’t seem to notice, as he just keeps driving until he stops in front of a small house complete with white shutters and an oak tree. “Here we are.”
I arch an eyebrow curiously, and he apparently mistakes my meaning.
“Jasper… all teasing aside, nothing has to happen. I just want to get to know you.”
I can’t help but grin at that as I lean across the console. “That’s good to hear,” I whisper, “but I hope you’re not set on that ‘nothing happening’ bit.”
Explore
A grin spreads across his lips as he pulls his keys from the ignition. “Tour?”
I nod, following him.
The charge in the air seems to change the moment he opens the door to his home and lets me inside. Neither of us comments on it as he gives me the grand tour, starting in his kitchen, which has a rustic feel to it, despite the modern appliances.
The rest of the place is much the same. Very homey and rustic, while still having all the modern day luxuries.
He hesitates at his bedroom door, his hand on the knob.
Confession
“Umm… want a drink?”
My eyes widen at his stalling. “Sure?”
At the question in my voice, he smiles ruefully. “Sorry,” he mutters, and opens the door.
I shake my head at his erratic behavior and peer into the room. The sleek lines of the dark furniture mix with the patchwork quilt on his bed to create a unique atmosphere. I start to tell him I like it, but his arms wrap around me from behind before I can.
“Sorry,” he whispers again, his lips ghosting across my neck. “I haven’t had anyone in here yet. Just… caught me offguard.”
Drink
He hands me a beer before taking a seat cater-corner from me at the kitchen island. I'm surprised to see him blush as he smiles at me and apologizes again.
Taking a swig, I shake my head. “Don't worry about it. You really haven't-?”
He coughs, blushing brighter. “I'm not fucking frigid or anything. Just never here. When I got this place a couple of years ago, I made a promise to myself to keep this home – share it only with people I'd want to have in my life, you know? I don't know, I just...”
I nod slowly, pondering.
Long
His words give me pause, making me wonder what exactly he sees in me. Considering this is our first date – on the spur of the moment – I don’t think he’s exactly pledging his undying love.
Pushing the question away to consider later, I ask one that’s easier for me. “How long’s it been?”
He chuckles, licking his lips before taking a sip of beer. “Awhile.”
When I don’t respond, he adds, “A few months for… ahh… fun. A couple years for anything serious. You?”
“Some ‘fun’ in Texas. Nothing since I moved here. I’ve had trouble meeting people,” I admit.
Turn
Edward nods, sipping his beer. “Job can do that to you... especially with the hours you've been keeping.” Nudging my knee with his, he glances at me through his lashes. “You've met someone now.”
Letting out a breathy chuckle, I nod. “S'pose I have, at that.”
Tilting his head, he frowns, serious all of a sudden. “Just make sure you remember to take time for yourself, Jazz. Don't let the job define you. You deserve better than that.”
My eyes widen in surprise.
He blushes again, quickly taking a swig of his beer.
“I'll keep that in mind,” I murmur.
Move
“Sorry,” Edward mumbles, staring at his bottle before giving me a crooked grin. “I sound like some old man, don’t I?”
I shake my head, smiling. “Nah, I like it. You sound like you care.”
“I do.” He runs his fingers through his hair. “I’ve been watching you at work,” he admits sheepishly. “I didn’t know you might be interested, but… well, I like what I saw.”
“I like what I see, too,” I tell him quietly, draining the last of my beer and standing up. “Guess we should sleep, since we’re getting up early,” I tease, lightening the mood.
Show
After draining our beers, Edward tosses both bottles into his recycling bin before leading me back upstairs. He stops by the guestroom door, directly across from his bedroom.
Standing there for a long moment, neither of us says anything. If I'm completely honest, I have to admit I'm a little disappointed. On the dance floor, things had gone well, and I'd thought that it'd translate out of the club, too.
Looking into Edward's eyes, though, I can see desire warring with indecision. I can't help but wonder at his past, certain there's a reason.
He bites his lip.
Fuck it.
Kiss
Remembering how comfortable we were all night before we got to his place, I summon my courage. Hooking my fingers in his belt loops, I urge him closer. When he comes without hesitation, I smile.
“Good night,” I breathe. I tilt my head, ducking slightly to capture his lips in a soft kiss.
He moans, his hands sliding up my arms, and his reservation cracks. He pushes me against the wall, pressing his body to mine as his tongue parts my lips, eager and insistent.
He swallows my curse as I kiss him hungrily, my hands drifting to his ass.
Breathless
How long we stay like that, locked in this kiss in the middle of his hallway, I don't know.
My heart thumps in my chest, my senses completely invaded by Edward as he presses against me, ravaging my mouth like he can't get enough of me.
I know the feeling, because all I can think is how I want more of him, too.
Finally, he breaks away, panting heavily. “Oh, fuck, Jasper...”
He rests his forehead against mine as we both struggle to regain our breath. I thrust my hips into his ever-so-slightly, and he groans, attacking my lips again.
Quilt
Never breaking our kiss, Edward pulls me away from the wall, walking backwards as he guides me. I’m so disoriented that I don’t even realize where we are until he pulls at my hips, making me sit down hard.
My hands run over his patchwork quilt as he steps back far enough to rip his shirt off, and my eyes feast on the tight body I’d only imagined as we danced. He’s lean but solid, subtle definition just begging for my tongue.
When I reach for him, he grins and shakes his head. “Let me see you, too,” he murmurs.
Reveal
Grinning, I pull my shirt off as slowly as I can, keeping my eyes on his. Seeing his eyes widen and darken as my body's revealed to him sends a shiver through me.
He licks his lips. “So fucking beautiful,” he breathes as he pushes me back against the bed. Our lips meet at the same time our chests touch. We both groan, shuffling up the bed.
My hands trace every bit of skin I can find, even venturing where it's hidden as I slip them into his pants to cup his ass. His hips buck into mine in response.
Plea
The room heats with our moans and our bodies rocking together. His skin warms with my touch, and he kisses me all over, licking and sucking hungrily as his lips roam my chest. He bites lightly at my nipple, teasing it with the tip of his tongue.
“Oh, fuck!” I call out, my hands balling into fists to keep from ripping his pants off.
He grinds his hips into mine, making me whimper. He smiles and kisses me hard, whispering against my lips, “I want you. All of you.”
I nod, my fingers tangling in his hair. “Oh god… please.”
Button
I push him away far enough to reach his pants and make quick work at getting him rid of them.
As soon as Edward kicks them off the bed, he starts to work on doing the same for me. He cusses when the buttons won't open fast enough for his liking, making me chuckle breathlessly.
My amusement’s quickly forgotten when he finally undoes them all and shoves his hand down them, wrapping his warm fingers around my shaft.
My head lolls back as he pumps me. “Oh fuck, please...” I moan.
I need more.
Need him.
However he wants me.
Desperate
Sliding down my body, he tugs at my pants, and I lift my hips so he can get rid of them. Before they hit the floor, he’s back, lying on his belly between my spread legs. He bites at my thigh, making me squirm before he licks my balls and blows playfully.
“Jesus… just… oh, fuck…” I can’t form a coherent thought, much less a sentence, so I thread my fingers in his hair, tightening them as I beg silently.
He chuckles and whispers, “This what you want?” His hot tongue teases my head, running all around the sensitive ridge.
Tense
My eyelids flutter closed as Edward's lips wrap around my shaft, slowly taking all of me. I try to breathe, but it's staggering and stuttering with his rhythm.
Scratching his scalp lightly makes him hum around me, and I almost lose it right then. My muscles tense and bunch as he gets me closer to the edge.
Suddenly it all... stops. His mouth is replaced by the too-light touch of his fingers as he looks at me.
Edward's eyes are blazing. “God, Jasper... please tell me you want me. Need to feel this,” he squeezes my cock, “in me. Please?”
Visual
“Yes,” I whisper simply as I reach for him. He climbs back up my body, straddling my hips, and the heat of his ass against my cock makes me groan.
“You like that?” he teases, rocking his hips back and forth, letting his cock brush mine.
I can’t speak. I just moan my approval as I pull his lips to mine harshly, kissing him with abandon. When I feel a little more in control, I break our kiss to say, “I need to see you, though. Please, Edward…”
“Whatever you want, baby,” he murmurs.
“Ride me?”
“Oh, fuck me… yes…”
Squeeze
My fingers stretch Edward, preparing him, but it's his hands that roll the condom down my shaft and then lube and squeeze it before he settles on top of me.
When he finally slides down my cock, I let out a long groan, gripping his hips so tightly I fleetingly worry I'll leave bruises.
He pries my fingers off them, twining them with his as he sets a slow pace, rocking back and forth.
“You’re so fucking beautiful to watch like this,” I murmur.
He blushes, picking up speed. “You’re too coherent,” he teases. “Guess I need to try harder…”
Pull
My hands roam Edward’s body, teasing his nipples, stroking his cock. I can’t get enough of him – the way he feels, the way he tastes and smells. His cock pulses in my hand, growing more rigid under my attention.
With some unspoken agreement, I move to sit up just as Edward reaches for me. His arms wrap around my shoulders as mine encircle his waist, dipping and teasing, finding where our bodies are joined before my hand moves back to grip his shaft.
Our bodies writhe and jostle, making it difficult to kiss, but our lips meet again and again.
Grind
His fingers are tangled in my hair, his eyes closed, his mouth open, his brow furrowed in concentration.
Fucking gorgeous is the only thought besides that flickers through my brain as he grinds into me.
My hold on him is tenuous at best, his skin so slick with sweat it's hard to get a grip.
It takes me a second to register him hoarsely chanting, “Pleasepleaseplease,” his neck straining as his pace becomes irregular – frantic.
Refusing to give up the connection, I do my best to get him there.
His lips crash to mine, catching his wail as he comes.
Watch
His entire body stiffens, freezing in place before he shudders and relaxes against me. The way his ass tightens around my cock makes me whimper, and he chuckles shakily as he kisses me. “Sorry, baby,” he breathes.
He throws back his head, taking a deep breath as he begins moving again. I find myself looking down, taking in our bodies, glistening with his sticky release. My cock appears and disappears, and the sight of our union holds me transfixed.
My hands on Edward’s hips, I guide him, helping him find a rhythm that has me crying out against his neck.
After
My arms are wrapped around him so tight, he barely has room to move, but he doesn't seem to mind. He holds me just as close as we both rest our heads on the other's shoulder. I can't help but smile when he breathes lightly against my sweat-slicked skin, making me shiver.
We sit like that for a while until we're both coming down from our highs, and I reluctantly let him go.
He surprises me by taking my face in his hands and kissing me slow and deep, his eyes closed. Resting his forehead to mine, he whispers, “Wow...”
Caress
I don’t answer. I just reach up, brushing his sweat-dampened hair from his forehead as I smile at him. Taking his chin lightly between my thumb and forefinger, I pull him forward to kiss him softly.
He hums, his hands roaming my back as he returns the kiss. When we part, he offers me a smile before climbing slowly out of my lap.
He waits until I dispose of the condom, then holds his arms open to me. I slide over beside him, resting my head on his chest as we work to catch our breath.
“Thank you,” I murmur.
Hesitant
We lie like that for a few minutes before something nags at me – his earlier words coming back to me. I wonder whether he wants me to stay, or if I should leave, even if that's the last thing I want to do.
He squeezes me lightly, pressing his lips to my furrowed brow, whispering, “What's wrong?”
Shaking my head, I lift it slightly to look at him. “Nothing... I just...” My eyes automatically flicker from his face to the door and back. “Wasn't sure if you'd want me to stay,” I admit quietly – hesitantly.
He pulls me to him.
Reciprocal
“Don’t go,” he says quietly.
My smile is automatic, even as I ask if he’s sure.
He nods and kisses my temple, his arms tightening around me. “I know we don’t know where this will go…” he begins.
“I’m not asking for-”
He lifts himself slightly, grinning down at me as he cuts off my interruption. “But I like where it’s starting,” he finishes.
My cheeks heat, and he leans down to brush his lips against mine. “And I’m not just talking about the sex,” he teases. “I like you, Jasper. I like having you here.”
“I like you, too.”
Idle
He grins crookedly, kissing my temple again. “Well, that's good. Would suck, otherwise.”
He tickles my side, making me squirm and narrow my eyes at him. Tilting my head up with his finger under my chin, he leans in, kissing me tenderly.
He combs his fingers through my hair and asks me about some of the scars on my body, and
I let myself relax into him again.
I smile when I tell him about some of the downright stupid antics my friends were up to as kids – and always managed to get me involved in, much to my detriment.
Sleep
We lie awake for a few hours, sharing stories and asking simple questions. When I woke up this morning, I never would have imagined finding myself here, in another man’s arms, much less his bed, but the more I get to know Edward, the more I want to know.
I find myself smiling at compatibility and desire I haven’t known for so long, and I can tell by the light in his eyes that the hope is there for him, too.
Eventually our words and caresses give way to yawns and apologies, and we fall asleep in each other’s arms.
Posts
Sweet beginning.
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