Title: The Education of Nick Stokes
Author: Cathy
Pairing: Nick/Greg
Fandom: CSI
Rating: NC-17
Series: 1) What Greg Doesn't Know, 2) Learning By Doing, 3) Squealer
Disclaimers: Once again, I've borrowed from CBS, William Petersen, Jerry Bruckheimer, and anyone else who own the copyright to the characters, dialog, story and pretty much everything related to CSI. I was also inspired by CBS for the title, but you can’t copyright titles. I can only claim ownership of the plot of this fic and my choice of words to convey it. I make no profit from this, just having a good time.
Although everything Greg buys at the sex shop exists (www.adamandeve.com) the shop itself is a product of my imagination. I doubt one exists like it in real life, but it would be totally cool if it did. I would like to point out that the description of the first item he picks out was shamelessly stolen verbatim from the website. What’s a little more copyright infringment when I’m so blatent about it with the fic? :)
And I realize he shares the same first name with the resident Homicide detective, but Jim is my creation. (The muse insisted that was his name, despite my pointing out the Brass connection.)
Spoilers: Everything through 'And Then There Were None' is fair game.
AN: Again I would like to profusely thank ChildeOfDarla for her help with this one. I promise it would be much more tedious and annoying if not for her pointing out where I needed to change my wording or just plain stop belaboring the point. She continues to rock, especially since she agreed to beta even while her life was full of other craziness.
Summary: Greg starts Nick’s education, but when Nick keeps resisting, he wonders if there’s any way he can get Nick to relax and enjoy himself. Some honest conversation, a bit of angst and a whole lot of NC-17 lovin’.

***

Greg breathed deeply, inhaling the scent that was uniquely Nick, felt Nick’s  warm skin pressed against his cheek, and Nick’s arms around him. Nick kissed  his temple then pushed him back slightly, meeting his eyes. “You know that was blackmail?” Nick asked, studying his face.

Nick watched Greg, wondering how he would react to the question. Part of him wanted Greg to be offended; it _was_ an accusation. Another part of him wanted Greg to brush it off so he could get mad. Either way, he wanted to start a mild fight with Greg; it was the only way he could think of to direct the encounter back into territory he was more comfortable in. When he wasn’t in control he couldn’t be sure that he would say the right things. And there were a lot of things if he said, although they would be true, would shatter the fragile relationship he did have with Greg. He’d messed it up once already by saying what he thought and look how that had gone. Thankfully it was ok in the end, but Nick wasn’t willing to risk it again.

Nick watched as Greg met his eyes, considering for a moment before responding. “Blackmail? What are you talking about?” He asked innocently.

Nick nodded; here was something he could work with. He raised a hand and gently ran his fingers over Greg’s shoulder. He didn’t answer for a moment, choosing instead to increase the pressure of his touch, drawing circles on Greg’s upper arm, then moving down to his elbow. He started slow, letting Greg think he was teasing, but preparing to make it serious. After a moment of this, he gently pushed Greg, getting him to lie back on the pillows, then shifted to lean on one arm. As Nick continued his slow circles over Greg’s collarbone, he finally responded. “You know what I mean. How was I supposed
to say ‘no’ when you were threatening to throw me out?” He met Greg’s eyes, waiting to see how Greg would answer.

Greg grinned up at him and winked. “Whatever works. I knew I would be able to change your mind eventually.”

Nick nodded again, acknowledging he’d heard, but taking a moment to comment. He dropped his fingers, continuing his slow stroking around Greg’s nipples. When Greg gasped he smiled, then let an edge enter his voice when he asked, “So, you think you’re the one in control?”

Greg was puzzled by the question and a little startled by Nick’s tone. Of course he’d been in control, but there must be some reason Nick was acting this way. He tried to think of an answer, but then Nick lowered his head and gently pulled a nipple into his mouth. Greg moaned, arching his back to press his chest against Nick’s lips.

Nick flicked his tongue out and over the sensitive skin, then raised his head again. The edge was still in his voice when he spoke. “I asked you a question. You _really_ think a little teasing means you’re running this relationship?”

Greg didn’t know what to respond to first: the actual question of control, the fact that Nick had called their interaction a relationship, or the hand that Nick was now moving over his stomach, tracing circles around his navel. He settled for gasping again and muttering, “You’re certainly in control right now.”

Nick grinned wickedly, holding his gaze while he dropped his hand once again, gently brushing the backs of his knuckles over Greg’s growing erection. “I was the whole time, Greg. Don’t forget that.”

Greg moaned at the effect Nick was having on him. He was quickly losing coherent thought but Nick’s statement was still incongruous with the facts. “Really? What about ‘I’ll obey your commands any time?’”

Nick leaned down, kissing Greg full on the lips. Greg knew it was a distraction, but he stopped caring when Nick’s tongue slipped between his teeth. Nick kissed him hard and deep for a moment, twining their tongues together, then suddenly pulled back. Before Greg could gather his thoughts again, Nick scattered them by taking hold of his cock, lightly encircling it with his fist. “Greg, do you have any lube handy?” Through a fog of sensation, Greg registered Nick’s question and nodded, mumbling about the bedside table.

Nick looked at him pointedly, and he was confused for a second. Suddenly, he realized Nick was waiting for him to retrieve the bottle and he got the message - Nick was now running the show. Greg was getting harder by the second, but he didn’t know if it was from Nick’s slow caress, or the thought of Nick taking it further - forcefully making the point and fulfilling his fantasy. Idly he wondered how Nick would respond if he called him ‘Master’.

Greg reached out to the bedside table, rummaging around until he felt the small bottle. Pulling it out, he held it up for Nick. Nick met Greg’s eyes, then flicked his gaze down Greg’s body. Greg moaned softly when he realized Nick wanted him to open it and squeeze some out.; Nick wasn’t backing down and it was making Greg even hotter. He flipped open the cap and was going to put some in his other hand when Nick stopped him. “What are you doing?” He asked sharply.

Greg was confused; had he read Nick wrong? “I thought you wanted me to put some on myself.” He thought he saw a glimpse of something in Nick’s eyes - a fleeting impression of desire.

He wondered what it signified, but it was only a brief thought, since Nick responded quickly. “I do, but not your hand - directly.”

Greg was startled. “But it’s cold!”

Nick looked at him, his expression serious.“Tough. Do it anyway.” When Greg’s eyes grew wider he grinned. “Don’t worry, it won’t be for long.”

Greg smiled and moved the bottle, squeezing it slightly so that the lubricant trickled on him. He shivered as the cold liquid hit his sensitive skin, but true to his word, Nick immediately began moving his hand, quickly warming it with his fist.

Greg moaned as Nick’s slick hand moved over him, the grip firm, but not tight. He sighed and settled back, enjoying the feel of Nick stroking him and willing to let Nick do what he wanted. Nick continued the movement, slowly increasing speed as he spoke. “You asked me a question. Do you still want an answer?”

Greg’s mind was getting fuzzy; he only had the vaguest recollection of asking anything. “What was the question again?”

Nick smiled and rubbed his thumb just under the head of Greg’s cock. “You asked me about my promise to obey you.”

He remembered now, but he wasn’t sure he cared anymore. He thought there was a point to this conversation once, but he honestly couldn’t remember what it was. He nodded, wondering what Nick would say.

Nick smiled, knowing the effect he was having on Greg. “I said I’d obey you, and I meant it, but only when I want to. Remember, you’re the one at my mercy.”

Greg moaned again, loudly. That thought was enough to almost send him over the edge, but Nick stopped his stroking for a moment and he was able to calm down a notch. Greg swallowed and nodded. “Yes, Master.” Greg immediately felt a cold shiver pass through him; he hadn’t meant to say that. He waited, hoping Nick would be ok with it.

Nick looked at him quizzically for a second, then he grinned and Greg’s feeling of dread lifted. “Master, hmm.” Nick didn’t say anything else, but he continued his stroking.

Nick’s mind was reeling; he’d started this little exercise to have some control over the situation, but he hadn’t expected it to work so well. Nick looked at Greg; his head was thrown back, eyes once again closed, his mouth hanging open slightly as he enjoyed Nick’s hand on him. Nick shook his head; he hadn’t expected it to be this easy, but now that he had Greg right where he wanted him, the rest was pure fun. He reached the end of his down stroke and spread his fingers to cup Greg’s balls.

Greg moaned loudly, spreading his legs wider, feeling them connect with Nick’s. Nick saw an opportunity to mess with Greg’s head some more. “You kicked me? I don’t have to take that.”

Nick moved his legs, pulled Greg’s leg between his. Carefully, he lowered himself from his elbow, stretching his arm under Greg to pull him closer and putting his head on the pillow next to Greg. “Now you can’t do anything but what I tell you to.”

Greg was going crazy. He felt Nick trap his leg, Nick’s renewed erection against his thigh, Nick’s arm around him pulling him close, his side pressed to Nick’s chest. He was completely willing to do whatever Nick said, but his arm was pinned to Nick’s side, distracting him. He raised it above his head wondering if he could grab the pillow.

As Greg wrapped his arm around the pillow, Nick whispered in his ear. “Perfect. Now your arm isn’t in my way.” To prove his point, he dropped his hand an inch lower, brushing his fingers over Greg’s asshole. Greg gasped and cried out and Nick again whispered. “See, I told you. Now, where was I?”

He pressed his fingers against Greg, feeling the muscle resisting slightly. Greg moaned and Nick smoothly brought his hand up, once more wrapping his fist around Greg’s cock. “Are you still with me?”

Greg moaned again and gasped “Yes.”

“Good.” Nick was quiet, enjoying the effect he had. Greg’s breath was speeding up and his moans were getting louder. Nick stroked harder and faster, bringing him to the edge.

Nick turned his head slightly and kissed Greg’s upraised arm. Greg gasped and arched his back, thrusting into Nick’s hand, then moaned loudly again. “God, Nick. Please...”

Nick raised his head, bringing his lips to Greg’s ear. He spoke softly, the words just barely audible. “Please what, Greg?”

“Please...” was all Greg was able to respond.

Nick gripped him tighter, speeding up once more. “Please do this, Greg? Please harder, faster? Please don’t stop?”
Greg cried out and arched his back again, his one arm locked around the pillow, his other hand clutching at the sheets. “Yes...”

Nick made a split second decision. Greg had responded so enthusiastically to his commands, Nick tried again. “I want you to come for me. I want to feel you shake, I want to feel every muscle tense just before I feel you go over the edge. Can you do that for me?”

Greg was in a fog of pleasure. Nick’s hand on him felt fantastic, and Nick’s voice in his ear was driving him crazy. He heard the words and felt himself tensing. He was so close, every nerve on edge, somehow aware of every spot on his body, yet all of it fuzzy. He felt Nick’s arm pulling him closer as Nick stroked him, the grip tight and strong. As if from far away, he heard Nick speak again, telling him to come, urging him to let go. He tensed,
every muscle taut, as the wave of sensation rose up, broke over him, and he came, screaming.

The feeling probably only lasted a few seconds, but it felt like an eternity to Greg as wave after wave of pleasure washed over him, radiating from Nick’s hand to the top of his head and the tips of his toes.

Suddenly, he shuddered and collapsed, his muscles going slack. Nick let go and rested his hand on Greg’s thigh, still feeling an occasional twitch under his spread fingers.

When Greg was able to breathe normally again, he got up for a washcloth and towel. He cleaned himself and Nick, then climbed back into the bed. Nick pulled him close once more and kissed his temple.

Greg leaned back slightly and looked at Nick, meeting his eyes. “That was great. You should definitely do that more often.”

Nick smiled. “We’ll see. Depends on what I feel like doing.”

Greg leaned forward again and kissed him on the lips before pulling back. He studied Nick’s face, wondering if the forceful, commanding Nick was going to stick around. He hoped so; the possibilities of where that could go were all good. Then he had a fleeting thought that if Nick continued to act that way, he might not be receptive to Greg teaching him. He wasn’t sure how to ask, but he knew the subject had to be breached. “Nick, I have a question for you about later. You _do_ realize that when we have sex the one on the receiving end calls the shots?”

Nick shrugged. “Yeah, I guess so.”

Greg held Nick’s gaze for a moment, trying to read if his nonchalance was a lack of worry, or a mask for nervousness. His tone was dismissive, as if he didn’t want to talk about it. Greg knew he risked upsetting Nick if he pushed the issue, but he wanted to be sure that Nick was clear on how it would go. “I’m serious, Nick. The one on the receiving end directs the action.”

Nick looked at him, a skeptical expression on his face. “Don’t you mean the _giving_ end?”

Greg shook his head quickly. “No, I mean the receiving end. Remember how I suggested it; I told you how to do it, and I told you how quick to go, when to pause, when to start again?”

Nick thought for a moment. “Yes. I do remember that. But having never been on the receiving end before I still think you’ll be doing a lot of the directing.”

Greg’s tone was still serious as he continued. “Maybe, but only based on what you tell me. It’s not like I say ‘on your knees’ then shove it in.”
Nick’s eyes grew slightly wider. “How eloquent. That was sexy.” He said flippantly.

Greg didn’t let Nick’s retort affect how he responded. He answered slowly, his voice steady. “I wasn’t trying to be sexy. Seriously, this is something we’ll take slow and work up to. I don’t expect you to be able to do it all the first time we try.”

Nick shrugged again. “As long as it doesn’t hurt, I’m cool.”

Greg studied his face for a moment, noting that Nick’s gaze shifted to his collarbone. He was starting to recognize the subtle clues that Nick was drawing back, avoiding discussion. He was pretty sure that Nick _was_ uncomfortable, but he didn’t want to guess wrong. He decided a matter of fact approach, without any judgements, was the best way to go on. He could only assume that Nick wanted honesty; anything else might be construed as patronizing and therefore offend him.

He leaned forward and kissed Nick again gently before responding, his voice even. “I’m not going to hurt you. I _will_ admit that it may be uncomfortable at first, but I promise it won’t hurt. You’ll have complete control over how fast you want me to go, or how much you want me do. You can put the brakes on at _any_ time - even if it’s a panic stop.”

Nick raised his eyes and met Greg’s again. “You’ll go slow?” Nick wished he hadn’t sounded so unsure, but the question came out more hesitant than confident.

“Absolutely. I promise.” Greg nodded once.

“Good, cause I don’t want to be reminded of my doctor.” Once more Nick studied Greg’s face, trying not to let the feelings of apprehension show on his own face; he still wasn’t sure he was ready for this.

Greg smiled slowly. “No... I don’t have a medical degree. Unlike those that do, I’ll be working toward giving you pleasure.”

Nick finally smiled and nodded. “I trust you.” His stomach settled somewhat; there couldn’t be any harm in at least trying.

Greg smiled again, more easily this time. “Good. By the way, I didn’t mean to upset you by seducing you.”

Nick shook his head. He’d been having some fun with Greg, trying to distract him, not make Greg think he was angry. “You didn’t upset me. I said before that I thought we were moving too fast, but I didn’t realize it would have the effect on you that it did.” He smiled, remembering the notes and touches.

Greg shifted, inching a little closer to Nick. “I wanted to be sure you didn’t regret what we’d done. I figured if you still responded to my advances, you were still interested.”

Nick closed his eyes and took a deep breath. He opened his eyes again and looked straight at Greg. “Oh, I’m definitely still interested. Just standing next to you in the lab is enough to turn me on. But I consider you my friend, too. I know we’ve only been - whatever we are - for less than a week, but I know already that I don’t want it to just be about the sex.”

Greg looked at him, his heart beating faster. *Oh, please let this be what I think this is....*

Nick took another deep breath. “I can’t define my feelings for you exactly, but I know that I really like you. I don’t want to just do you then say goodbye. I want to learn what you like and what makes you tick. And, well, that makes me nervous and when I get nervous I slow down.” He paused, searching Greg’s face for his response. “Geez, I’m not even sure I should have said as much as I did.”

Nick waited, hoping he hadn’t said too much, wondering if he should have said more. He’d told Greg it was nervousness, but he knew it was more than that; knew it, but didn’t, or rather couldn’t, admit it. Once again he felt control slipping and wondered if he should have kept his mouth shut. His distraction tactic had worked once, but there was no way it was going to work a second time. He held his breath, waiting for Greg’s response.

An eternity seemed to pass but finally Greg smiled. Nick let out the breath he’d been holding and took another just before Greg leaned close and kissed him, putting an arm around his waist to draw him closer.

Greg pressed his lips against Nick’s firmly, but not demanding. He sensed, rather than saw, Nick close his eyes and lean into the kiss. Nick let him lead, and Greg kissed him softly, not asking for more, just making contact. After a moment, Greg pulled back and opened his eyes, then whispered. “Nick, I really like you too. I have for some time now. I guess I just overreacted when you changed your mind. I thought maybe you’d changed your mind about everything.”

Nick looked at him, his eyes wide. “I thought I made that clear...”

Greg looked down at Nick’s chest, unable to meet his eyes. “Well, I lied.... I felt sucker punched, and I said what I thought would smooth it over.”

Nick brought his hand up and cupped Greg’s face. “Greg, I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to make you feel that way. I knew I’d screwed up, but I guess I didn’t realize how much.”

Greg blinked, suddenly feeling tears, still unable to meet Nick’s eyes. *I will _not_ cry!* “Well I can see now I was wrong about that, but what now?”

“You mean between us?”

Greg nodded. “Yeah.”

Nick lifted Greg’s chin, forcing Greg to meet his eyes. “Greg, maybe we need to put a label on us - I don’t want any more misunderstandings. In a minute, I’m going to show you why I said I wasn’t available that day, but first, we need to decide where we stand.”

Greg swallowed, not wanting to believe what he was hearing. “Can we call this a relationship?”

Nick nodded slightly. “Usually I’m the guy who doesn’t want to jump into things quickly, but this time I can’t avoid it. It just feels right. I would be happy to call this a relationship.”

Greg smiled, feeling his heart lift. “I like the sound of that. Just so we understand, this is an exclusive thing, right?”

Nick smiled back. “Absolutely. Now, I have something to show you.”

Greg looked puzzled as Nick rolled and stood, moving to his bag tossed in the corner. He reached in and pulled out a pair of royal blue silk boxers. Greg’s eyes lit up when he realized they were for him.

“I’d seen these a few days before I bought them, and somehow I thought of you. I wanted to get them then, but I thought it was a crazy idea. I didn’t even know then that you wanted me too.” He paused, his eyes searching Greg’s face. Greg just waited to see if Nick would continue. After a moment, he did. “I almost thought it was all over when you turned and walked back down the hallway. But, when you caught up to me on the stairs, I knew it was going to be alright. Then that afternoon on my way to work I decided I had to go back and get them.”

Nick held out the boxers to Greg. He took them and ran his hand over the smooth material before he looked up at Nick and said, “I love them. It may sound crazy, but I’ve never worn _silk_ boxers before.”

Nick grinned. “The color suits you and I can’t wait to see them _on_ you. But I’ll wait till later when we start my ‘education’.”

Greg grinned back and pulled him close for another kiss. It was a soft, sweet kiss, the ‘thank you’ that Greg couldn’t put into words. After a moment he broke it off then stood to put the boxers on his dresser before moving back to the bed and snuggling up next to Nick. He fell asleep with a smile on his face.

****************************************

Greg woke quickly, his bladder calling urgently. He was only vaguely aware of Nick moving as he got out of bed. Although he was only gone for a minute, by the time he came back Nick had taken over the bed, sprawling out completely. Greg smiled to himself as he slid under the covers, poking Nick gently in the shoulder. “Hey, move over,” he said quietly.

Nick barely moved as he murmured sleepily, “Huh?”

Greg poked him again on the arm, harder this time. “I said, move over big boy. Two have to share the bed.”

Nick opened his eyes and looked at Greg. “Afternoon. Sorry about that.” He shifted, moving to one side so Greg could lie down again. “Guess I’m not used to sharing a bed.”

“Uh huh. Get used to it, unless you want to leave.” Greg smiled.

Nick shook his head and pulled Greg close. “Nope. I’ll get use to it cause I like doing it.” He leaned forward and kissed Greg lightly on the lips. “We have the day off. We don’t have to get up yet, do we?”

Greg settled his head against Nick’s shoulder. “We’ve got time.”

“Good,” Nick replied before placing a kiss on Greg’s forehead. He held Greg close, gently rubbing his back in long, slow strokes. Greg sighed and went a little more limp in his arms.

Greg moaned softly when the strokes got longer, grazing over his bare bottom. Nick continued moving slowly, but his path became more defined; more below Greg’s waist than above it. Greg sighed again, opening his eyes to meet Nick’s. “Are you trying to start something?”

Nick looked at him, his expression one of innocence. “Who me?”

“You’re the one with your hand on my butt, so yeah, you.” Greg smiled.

Nick winked. “Maybe. Did you want me to stop?”

Greg didn’t answer with words, instead letting the trail of his hand do the talking. Down Nick’s chest to his waist, slipping around to brush the small of his back then lower once more, squeezing gently, pulling him close, Greg’s growing arousal against his abdomen.

Nick kissed his way across Greg’s jaw, stopping at his ear. “Guess that answers my question, huh?”

Greg nodded and thrust his hips, Nick’s moan sending a thrill through him. Nick traced his spine and squeezed his bottom pulling him closer, then captured his mouth in a deep kiss.

Nick took control, thrusting his tongue and demanding access. Greg surrendered and got lost in the kiss. Their tongues met; their lips slid over each other. He felt Nick shift, moving more on top of than next to him, freeing his other arm.

Greg quickly took advantage of the new mobility and raised one hand to Nick’s shoulders. Without really thinking about it, he found himself scratching, pressing into Nick’s skin, pulling him closer. With his other hand he touched every part of Nick he could reach, caressing the small of his back, the curve of his bottom, the taut muscle in his thigh, the soft space in back of his knee.

Nick broke the kiss and trailed his lips across Greg’s jaw, stopping to suck the base of his throat. Greg gasped under him and unconsciously grabbed his thigh, fingers digging in slightly. He moaned and Greg started to release his grip. “No, don’t stop.”

Greg tilted his head back and Nick moved his lips again, back up Greg’s throat to his ear. He moaned softly and continued squeezing Nick’s thigh. “Glad you like it.”

Nick lifted his head and met Greg’s eyes. “I do.” Any other thought he had was gone when Greg grinned, a mischevious look on his face.

Greg kissed Nick’s chin, feeling the beginnings of stubble. Using just the tip of his tongue, he continued his trail over Nick’s jaw and down his throat to his shoulders. Smoothly, he moved both hands to Nick’s rear, feathering his fingers over the silky skin in tandem with his lips and tongue on Nick’s collarbone.

Nick gasped, but before he could get used to the sensation, Greg tried something else. Arching his fingers, he dug them gently into the large muscle, then raised his head and sucked on Nick’s throat.

“God, Greg....” Greg quickly dropped his head, kissing his way down Nick’s chest, again using his lips and the tip of his tongue to drive Nick crazy.

He reached Nick’s nipple, gently kissing before opening his mouth. Carefully, he applied pressure, softly sucking the sensitive area. Nick gasped and arched his back. Encouraged, Greg slowly licked him, letting him feel the dual sensation of lips and tongue. He moaned and grabbed Greg’s hips, then thrust gently, his hardness connecting with Greg’s.

Greg moaned as they brushed against each other, then released Nick’s nipple to trail his mouth to the other. Once more he sucked Nick into his mouth, softly teasing as he moved one hand, brushing it over the cleft of Nick’s behind.

Nick moaned as Greg’s tongue connected with his nipple, gasping at the incredible sensation Greg was lavishing on his chest. Greg continued to play with Nick’s nipple in his mouth as he again moved his hand, brushing a finger over Nick’s opening.

It was a light touch, barely grazing the skin, but Nick reacted violently, pulling back from Greg and rolling off of him. “What are you doing?” He asked harshly.

Greg was shocked. “I didn’t realize I was doing anything wrong. I thought you’d like it.”

“Jesus, Greg. Give a guy warning before you start trying to stick him with things.” Nick looked at him, his expression bordering on terror.

Greg rolled onto his side, propping himself on one hand. Deliberately, he reached for Nick’s hand and brought it to his chest, holding it still. Nick waited, wondering if Greg was going to say anything, but he was silent.

Nick felt his heart slowing, the shock dissapating. He tried to decide why he’d reacted so furiously. There was no reason he should have, but he couldn’t get the idea out of his head that he was being forced to do something he didn’t want to. He’d thought it couldn’t hurt to try, but now he wasn’t so sure. He studied Greg’s face for a moment more, his expression changing to one of puzzlement when Greg still didn’t say anything.

Finally, Greg spoke. “I’m not going to hurt you, Nick. I promise. I was just going to brush the area with a finger. I thought you’d like it.”

Nick nodded and cleared his throat. “I’m sorry. I guess I overreacted.” There were about a thousand other thoughts swirling in his head, but that was the best way to describe how he felt.

Greg smiled slowly. “It’s ok. I guess I should have let you know. But I promise I wouldn’t try to ‘stick you with things’ without saying something first.”

Nick glanced over Greg’s shoulder at the bedside table then back at Greg’s eyes. “Ok, but I didn’t know if you might have some toys....” He stopped, letting the sentence trail off and tried to control his blush. Hadn’t he asked Greg to show him? What if the best way _was_ with toys?

Greg almost laughed until he realized Nick was serious.“Nick, toys are fun in their place, but we’re not making a porno. Let’s stick to you and me and a bottle of lube.”

Nick nodded and moved his hand to cup Greg’s cheek. He leaned forward and kissed Greg lightly on the lips before pulling back. “Ok. That doesn’t sound bad.”

Greg winked. “I hope it sounds good. Better yet, I hope it _feels_ good.”

Nick smiled. “I’m sure it will.”

Greg took a deep breath and let it out slowly before speaking again. “Nick, we have the whole day off. How do you want to do this?”

Nick looked at him, puzzled again. “I don’t follow.”

“Ok, let me ask a different question. Worst case scenario, what happens?”

Greg was quiet, waiting to see how he answered. Nick thought for a moment, wondering how to voice the thoughts going through his head. “It hurts, a lot.”

“Anything else?”

Nick blushed; he was thinking of something else, but he didn’t know how to say it. He took a deep breath before answering. “And it’s...messy.”

Greg leaned over to kiss him again. “That won’t be a problem. Externally, a little soap and water will do the trick. Internally, you tell me when you’re ready. Ok?”

Nick nodded quickly. “Yeah.”

“Now, regarding the ‘ouch factor’. If you really _want_ it, you’ll enjoy it and it won’t hurt. But I want you to stop me if you aren’t enjoying it; it means I’m doing something wrong and I need to fix it.”

Nick took another deep breath. “Ok, I think I can do that.”

Greg smiled and kissed him again. “Nick, I’ll follow your lead. Tell me to do more or do less, just make sure that you _tell_ me, ok?”

Nick nodded and pulled him close. He kissed Greg’s temple then settled his head back on the pillow. Greg rested his head on Nick’s shoulder; it fit well into the space under Nick’s chin. After a moment, Nick spoke softly. “Greg, thank you for your patience. I’m sorry if I freaked earlier.”

Greg kissed him lightly, resting his hand on Nick’s chest. “It’s ok. You’re worth waiting for.”

Nick pulled him even closer. He still wasn’t sure if he could do this, but he did want to try. He felt a wave of affection for Greg, but he stopped himself from saying what he really felt. *The last thing I need is to scare him off by telling him I’m falling in love with him. If I _am_ falling in love with him.* That thought made a tight ball of fear form at the base of  his spine. He breathed deeply, concentrating on the feel of Greg in his arms
instead of the fear. He felt Greg’s hair on his cheek and realized Greg was putting up with a lot of mixed signals from him. “I don’t know what I did to deserve you, but I’m so glad I did it.” He paused, then tried to lighten the mood. “Do you mind if I take a bit to figure out what it was?”

Greg smiled to himself. He sensed Nick was holding back, but he wasn’t in a hurry. “Sure, take all the time you need. I’m going to see if I can get some more sleep.”

Nick kissed his forehead again. Greg closed his eyes and once more he fell asleep, nestled against Nick.

------

Greg woke to the smell of... something fabulous. Keeping his eyes closed, he sniffed the air: green peppers, onions, eggs. Was Nick making omelettes? He heard a cabinet door open then shut again quietly as he threw back the covers and got out of bed.

Greg quickly crossed to the closet and took out a pair of sweat pants. Pulling then on, he yawned. He ran his hands through his hair, pushing it back off his face as he moved to the bedroom door. He stepped out of the bedroom and was about to walk to the kitchen when he stopped short and stared.

There was Nick, wearing nothing but a black pair of jeans - a tight black pair of jeans. Greg watched him for a moment, enjoying the way the late afternoon sun slanted in the window and cast Nick in relief. Greg let his eyes take in the awesome sight of a half naked Nick: square jaw, broad shoulders, well defined abs, and tight ass. Greg swallowed when Nick deftly flipped the omelette in the pan, a vein standing out as his arm tensed to hold the pan steady.

Greg was speechless, thinking all kinds of delicious thoughts that had nothing to do with the egg concoction on the stove. When he _was_ able to speak, he said the first thing that popped into his head. "Oh yum!"

Nick looked up from the pan and caught his eye. "Afternoon. I was hoping I guessed right about the omelette."

Greg smiled. "Omelette? I was talking about the cook." Nick blushed as Greg walked up behind him, put his arms around Nick’s waist, and kissed his shoulder lightly. Greg whispered in his ear, "You know, one of these days I’m going to use my tongue to trace the outline of every single muscle in your body."

“Did you know there are 639 muscles in the human body?" Nick chuckled, his tone light.

Greg stuck out his tongue and ran it up the side of Nick’s neck - from shoulder to earlobe. "Then I’ll be doing a lot of licking, won’t I?"

Nick sharply sucked in a breath, then flipped the omelette again before turning around in Greg’s arms. He tried to keep his light tone as he continued, "Well, not all of those are directly under the skin. Some are internal; you don’t even have control-" His sentence was cut off as Greg’s lips pressed against his.

Greg plunged his tongue into Nick’s mouth, feeling his lips open willingly. He continued to tease Nick, sucking his tongue and nibbling his lips. Nick’s arms came around his waist, tightening as he dropped his hands to Nick’s ass. He squeezed, pulling Nick against his growing erection. Nick moaned, the sound deep in his throat as he maintained the kiss.

Suddenly, Greg broke the kiss and pulled back, studying Nick’s face, noting the glazed eyes and swollen lips. He winked. "I’ll still hit every muscle I can, and I bet by the 51st you won’t even be keeping track anymore."

Nick shook his head to clear it then grinned. "I doubt it’ll take _that_ long."

Greg grinned back. “You’re probably right. Now, before my meal burns....” He let go of Nick and stepped back, his nerves protesting at the deprivation of Nick’s warm skin, but he continued to feast his eyes on Nick. He watched how Nick moved, enjoying the smooth ripple of skin as the sun caught it just so....Greg shook his head and moved to sit down at the table. *Keep thinking like that and this hard on will quickly become painful, instead of just an annoyance.*

A moment later Nick cut the omelette in two and quickly slid the halves onto separate plates to carry them to the table.

Nick slid into the chair across from Greg and waited for him to take the first bite. Greg carefully put some in his mouth, mindful that it was still hot. The omelette was fluffy, not too hard and not too runny. The onions and peppers blended well, adding a great taste to the whole meal. There was a hint of something else, but Greg couldn’t quite place it. He swallowed, nodding. “That’s really good. What is that...that...”

Nick grinned. “Horseradish. Just a touch, but it blends well.”

Greg was startled. He had never thought to put horseradish in eggs; he had some in the apartment for a mean recipe for pot roast. “Wow. It’s good.” He eagerly took another bite as Nick dug into his.

They ate in companionable quiet, occasionally nodding at each other. Greg continued to enjoy looking at Nick. From the way Nick was also watching him, he figured Nick was thinking about him the same way.

Greg finished his omelette and stood to take the dishes to the sink. Before he could leave the table though, Nick took the plate from him. “Let me get that. You’re going to be doing enough work later, let me do the easy stuff.” He winked.

Greg grinned. “I could get used to this. You wanna come over every day and cook for me?”

“Not particularly.” Nick laughed as he ducked the smack Greg aimed at his shoulder.

Greg waited till Nick had put both plates down before wrapping his arms around Nick again. He gently bit Nick’s shoulder, once more sticking out his tongue to lick Nick’s skin. “Mm, you taste good.”

Nick leaned back into his arms. “You can’t keep your hands off me, can you?” he teased.

Greg moved his hands from Nick’s waist and over his chest, one hand rising to circle a nipple, the other tracing Nick’s ab muscles as he moved to lick Nick’s other shoulder. “Nope. But you really don’t want me to stop, do you?”

Nick moaned as Greg gently brushed his nipple. “No, I don’t.”

Greg kissed a trail up the side of Nick’s neck. “Good. Maybe we should hop in the shower before we get any hotter.”

Greg loosened his hold on Nick so he could turn around. Nick pressed a light kiss to Greg’s lips before answering. “Why? Are we taking a cold shower?”

Greg laughed. “No, but my hands will slip over you even better if they have soap all over them.”

With that, Nick moaned again and reached for Greg’s hand, winking quickly as he led Greg to the bathroom.

Greg followed willingly, concerned for a brief moment that Nick was so hot he’d jump in the shower with his clothes on. He realized he needn’t have worried when Nick pulled back the curtain and reached for the faucet, but made no move to climb into the tub.

Nick let go of Greg’s hand just long enough to turn on the water to warm before he turned around, took Greg in his arms, and pulled him close in another passionate kiss. This time, Nick took control, dropping his hands to Greg’s ass, pulling Greg close and grinding their erections together. Greg moaned into Nick’s mouth, opening his lips to Nick’s invading tongue. Nick tasted like egg, onion, cheese, and passion. Greg loved the feel of Nick’s tongue on his; the scent of Nick filling his nose. It was almost too much and he was sure he would have fallen if he hadn’t been held up.

Nick kissed Greg for a moment more before he started taking off Greg’s clothes, sliding his thumbs in the waistband of the sweats. He maintained his lip lock with Greg as he slipped the pants off Greg’s hips and pulled them free of Greg’s erection. Greg moaned again as Nick lightly brushed him. The first touch was an accident, the next was deliberate as Nick gently took him in hand, carefully stroking him, enjoying the feel of warm smooth skin over a hard core. Greg moaned again and broke the kiss when Nick’s hand dropped a bit lower to cup his balls, thumb slowly moving back and forth over the sensitive skin.

“Nick, that feels....” Greg gasped as Nick’s mouth dropped to his pulse point, gently sucking.
Greg felt steam coming from the shower behind them as he slid his hands down Nick's bare back to his waist. He fumbled with the button on Nick’s jeans for a moment, trying to concentrate, although all he wanted to do was give in to the incredible sensations of Nick’s tongue on his neck and Nick’s hand on his cock. Finally, he was able to free the button and pull down the zipper, giving him access to slip a hand into Nick’s jeans.

Greg was right about Nick - he wore nothing but the jeans. Nick moaned briefly as Greg touched him, then dropped his head back as Greg stroked him, Greg’s thumb grazing just under the head of his cock. Greg watched his response, wondering if his own eyes were as dilated as Nick’s, the pupil wide, brown just at the edges. Nick blinked once then dropped his hand from Greg.

Greg was about to protest when Nick smiled and finished removing the jeans. He nodded over his head at the shower and Greg nodded back, dropping his hand from Nick.

Nick stepped into the shower first, tilting his head to get his hair wet. Greg climbed in next, facing Nick and pulling the curtain closed. Nick winked and stepped back a bit, letting the water run down his chest and over Greg.

Greg reached out and pulled Nick against him, kissing him as the water poured down on them. He reveled in the sensations assaulting him: Nick’s lips and tongue sliding over his; Nick’s hands on his back, ass, and cock; Nick’s skin under his roaming hands; the water washing over them, warm and fast; the roaring in his ears a combination of the water and his heartbeat. Suddenly, it was too much and he broke the kiss, gasping for air.

Greg breathed deeply and tilted his head back, feeling the water beating on his chest and splashing in his face as Nick once again lowered his mouth to Greg’s neck, playing his tongue over the sensitive skin. Just when Greg was sure he couldn’t take any more, Nick lifted his head and winked at him.

He was momentarily disoriented, but then he grinned as Nick reached for the body wash behind him. Nick whispered that he should turn around and he complied, feeling Nick’s slick hands working over his shoulders.

He gasped as Nick cleaned his back, unsure if Nick was cleaning or offering a massage. Nick’s hands slid over his shoulders, thumbs digging in slightly before the hands dropped lower, wrists together, thumbs tracing Greg’s spine as spread fingers swept over the large muscles. Nick reached the small of Greg’s back and reversed his stroke, this time arching his fingers slightly and digging in. Greg gasped again when Nick’s wrists parted, hands sliding to the edges of his back, fingers grazing over his side on the downstroke.

Nick once again reached Greg’s waist, but this time he dropped his hands lower, rubbing slow circles over Greg’s ass, squeezing slightly. Greg whimpered as Nick lifted his hands and he no longer felt contact. It was only a brief moment though because Nick stepped forward, pulling Greg against his chest.

Greg felt his back slipping against Nick’s chest, felt Nick’s nipples, erect, sliding against him. He had a brief moment to realize Nick was hard against his back before Nick shifted slightly, moving so that he wasn’t hurting. Nick’s hands slid around him, moving up his chest.

Greg moaned and tilted his head back to Nick’s shoulder as Nick brushed a nipple, continuing the slow cleaning with his chest. Greg closed his eyes, giving into the feeling; Nick was driving him crazy.

Nick ran his hands over Greg’s chest, starting at his collarbone then moving lower. He lingered on Greg’s nipples, rolling them gently, his slick fingers sliding over them easily. Then once more his hands slid lower, the flat of his palm rubbing Greg’s stomach, exerting just enough pressure to prevent it from tickling. Nick brushed his fingers over Greg’s navel before spreading them to massage his pelvis.

Greg moaned, hoping Nick would again drop his hands. Nick gently kissed the side of his neck, trailing his lips up to his ear. “You like that?” Greg couldn’t answer with words; all he could manage was a nod. He sensed Nick’s smile as Nick again moved his hands.

Greg wasn’t sure when Nick had gotten more body wash, but the hand that wrapped around him was slick, slippery with wash. He felt it lather slightly, the bubbles an interesting addition to Nick’s hand wrapped around him, slowly pumping. Greg relished Nick’s touch, one hand out to steady himself on the wall. Nick went slowly, sliding up and down, his grip firm, but not tight.

Greg moaned, thrusting slightly. Nick gently bit his earlobe as he sped up, rubbing his thumb over the head of Greg’s cock.

Greg wasn’t sure if the sensation was too intense or if it was the body wash, but suddenly, it was too much. He opened his eyes and raised his head. “Nick, stop for a second.”

Nick was confused, but he stopped his stroking, although he didn’t drop his hand. That was when Greg realized it was the body wash. “Nick, I gotta wash this stuff off. It’s starting to sting.”

Nick was surprised, and immediately apologetic. “I’m sorry. Here, let me step back.”

He moved and Greg turned around, letting the water wash him off. Looking up, Greg caught Nick’s eye, seeing uncertainty and worry. Greg smiled, trying to put Nick at ease and brought his hands up to Nick’s chest. “That was amazing. We’ll have to try that sometime with a different lubricant.”

Nick smiled carefully, stepped forward, and pulled Greg close in a kiss, once more the water washing over them.

When Nick pulled back from the kiss, Greg grinned at him. “Ok, now it’s my turn. I want to run my hands all over you.”

Nick grinned and stepped forward so they could switch places. Greg squeezed some body wash in his hands and motioned for Nick to turn around. He put his hands on Nick’s back, trying to think of a way to drive Nick as crazy as Nick had driven him. Greg arched his fingers, running the tips over Nick’s back. He moved downward, pausing to outline Nick’s shoulder blades; stopping at Nick’s waist.

Suddenly, Greg had an idea, but it would involve Nick’s consent. He stepped forward slightly, bringing his lips right next to Nick’s ear. “Nick, I want to try something. Will you let me touch you while you lean against the wall?”

Nick turned his head, looking over his shoulder at Greg. “Of course you can touch me. You don’t have to ask.”

Greg took a deep breath and started again. “Most places, no. But I want to get you used to my fingers over your butt, and more. Can I do that?”

Nick was glad Greg hadn’t used any of the terms he could have for that area of his body; it would have killed the moment. He was still rock hard and Greg’s hands had felt so good on his back. He decided to give it a try. He nodded, not trusting his voice completely, and turned to lean against the wall.

Greg watched as Nick got settled, pillowing his head on one arm, the other raised with the palm flat on the wall, legs spread slightly. Greg saw the set of Nick’s shoulders, saw he was tense, the relaxed posture not as easy as he pretended. Greg carefully ran his hands over Nick’s back, digging his fingers in slightly, letting Nick get used to the feel of his hands. He made it a massage, trying to relax Nick as well as turn him on. His hands ran over Nick’s back twice, each time dropping a bit lower till he was able to gently cup Nick’s rear, rubbing slow circles.

Nick gasped slightly as Greg squeezed. “Does that feel good?” Greg asked softly.

Nick nodded and mumbled, “Yes, but you haven’t done anything yet.”

Greg smiled slightly. “I’ve got my hands on your ass, my fingers slipping all over you. This wash makes them slide so easily and your skin is so smooth under them. You moan as I squeeze...” he squeezed slightly and Nick _did_ moan. “I’d say I’ve done something.” Nick moaned again as Greg slipped one hand around his waist, brushing lightly over his erection.

Greg thought quickly. Nick would be able to take this better if he was stimulated from both sides, but Greg didn’t want Nick to feel any sting from the body wash. He decided to restrict his stroking to the tips of his fingers, concentrating on running them up and down Nick’s length, staying away from the sensitive tip; he realized this would also keep Nick going longer, keeping him away from the edge that direct stimulation would bring on quickly. Nick moaned, louder this time, as Greg continued his fingertip stroking, while moving his hand over the crease of Nick’s behind.

Greg continued this for a few strokes, letting Nick get used to the idea that he was going to do more. Nick relaxed a notch, settling against the wall more firmly, his mouth dropping open a bit. Slowly Greg continued, slipping a finger between Nick’s cheeks, brushing lightly over his opening. He gasped, but Greg continued moving, grazing the underside of his balls.

Nick shifted, moving his legs apart a bit more and Greg slid his finger up, once more brushing lightly over his opening. Nick moaned, “Greg, that feels fantastic.”

Greg grinned. This time when he brushed Nick he paused, resting his finger for a beat before moving. He did this once more while continuing his slow stroking of Nick’s cock.

Another sweep of his finger and Greg paused, deliberately rubbing over Nick’s opening, watching to see how he would react. Nick gasped, his breathing increasing, clearly into it. Greg once more moved down, brushing over Nick’s balls before repeating the intentional rub.

Greg took a deep breath, preparing to notch it up once more. This time he stopped, pressing in slightly. He was careful to distribute the pressure evenly; not pushing in. Despite his care, Nick tensed.

Greg leaned forward, whispering in Nick’s ear as he resumed moving his finger, stroking rather than pressing. “It’s ok, Nick. I’m going to stay on the outside. Just enjoy the feeling.”

Nick opened his eyes and looked at Greg, searching his face. He could see Greg was being completely up front, telling the truth. He nodded and closed his eyes, waiting to see if Greg would try again.

Greg took another deep breath and once more stopped over Nick’s opening. He pressed in slightly as he moved his finger over the area. Nick moaned and pushed back some. Encouraged, Greg sped up a bit more, increasing the pressure lightly as well.

Nick was reeling from the sensation. He had no idea it would feel this good. He concentrated on the small patch of skin Greg was caressing. He felt Greg’s finger sliding back and forth, the pressure adding pleasure. On one stoke, the tip of Greg’s finger pressed in slightly, catching on the ring of muscle. Nick gasped and cried out.

Greg immediately stopped, moving his finger completely off the area. “I’m sorry, Nick.”

Nick shook his head quickly, pressing his cheek against his arm and his hands into the wall. Greg saw this and moved his hand completely, resting it on Nick’s waist. Nick sighed and muttered, “No, don’t. I....again. Do it again.”

Greg was surprised. He thought that it had been too much. He wished Nick would open his eyes, but he realized Nick was holding on to his control. Greg nodded to himself and moved his hand, once more positioning his finger over Nick’s opening. He resumed his stroking, keeping it slow in case Nick changed his mind, wanting to make sure he’d heard Nick correctly. Nick moaned and again moved his hips, thrusting back against Greg’s hand.

Greg grinned as he sped up his stroking, then suddenly stopped, pressing in with the tip of his finger. He felt Nick tense for a moment, but he kept his hand still, waiting to see if Nick would relax. A beat later he did, the muscle unclenching. Nick moaned again as Greg’s finger pressed in a bit more.

Greg wanted to continue, but he wanted to make sure that Nick was with him. He leaned over to whisper in Nick’s ear. “Nick...Nick, are you with me?”

“Yes...” Nick gasped.

“Nick, do you want me to keep doing this?”

Nick swallowed and opened his eyes. He looked at Greg, meeting his gaze, then licked his lips. “Yes, I want you to try. It feels so good.”

Greg nodded and kissed him lightly on the temple, the closest point he could reach. He shifted his front hand, wrapping the fingers around Nick to stroke  harder. Nick moaned as Greg’s fist closed around him. Greg was careful as he reached the up stroke, loosening his grip to brush lightly over the tip of Nick’s erection before tightening again on the downstroke. As he reached the base of Nick’s cock, Nick moaned and thrust against him.

As Nick brought his hips forward, his back clenched slightly, pulling Greg’s finger into him a bit more. Barely more than a quarter inch, but Nick felt every micrometer. He opened his eyes wide, his mouth dropping open. Greg held perfectly still, not moving either hand, waiting for Nick. After a beat, Nick closed his mouth and eyes, moving his head to rest his forehead on his arm, and consciously relaxing his stance.

Greg resumed his front stroking slowly, keeping his back finger still as he slid his hand over Nick. When Nick again moaned and Greg could sense he was getting closer, Greg moved his back finger slightly, pressing the tip against Nick. He was careful, trying to apply pressure upwards, concentrating on giving Nick sensation more than deepening penetration. It wasn’t easy to coordinate his hands, but Greg focused, feeling Nick’s back relaxing as he got closer to the edge.

Greg leaned over to whisper in Nick’s ear as he continued his dual assault. “Nick, do you like that? Do you like my hands on you?” Nick nodded and Greg continued talking. “Nick, I want you to come for me. I want to feel you go over the edge. I want to know that I’ve brought you to the edge.”

Nick’s breathing was getting faster, and Greg could feel him tensing again. This time Greg knew it wasn’t from nervousness. He smiled to himself as he felt Nick take another quarter inch of his finger, the tip beyond the ring of muscle. Greg continued his steady stroking of Nick’s cock, holding his other hand completely still. “Nick, that feels so good. I can feel you getting close; I know it won’t be long now. Thrust against me if you want to  - I’ll move with you.”

He wasn’t sure if Nick had heard him until Nick started moving his hips.  Greg concentrated on keeping his hand on Nick’s back moving with him exactly, not thrusting with his finger. Nick must have realized he wasn’t going to be surprised and he increased his thrusting. Greg matched his front stroking with Nick’s thrusts, giving him as much sensation as possible. Greg once more leaned over and whispered in Nick’s ear. “That’s right. Just like that. I want you to come for me Nick. Come for me.”

He heard Nick draw in one more breath and hold it. Greg tightened his fist slightly, keeping up his stroking, knowing Nick was right at the edge. He felt all Nick’s muscles tense, and held his own breath, waiting for Nick to go over. Nick thrust forward one more time, and Greg felt his finger slip in just a bit further. He wondered for a split second if Nick could take it before Nick cried out and went over the edge. Greg felt the contractions rippling along Nick’s cock and through his body, rhythmically squeezing Greg’s finger while at the same time spilling warmth over his hand.

A beat later and Nick relaxed, the last contractions fading. Greg slowly released him and moved both hands, bringing them to rest on Nick’s waist.

When Nick’s breathing was again under control, he stood up and opened his eyes. He smiled at Greg and moved to stand under water that was beginning to get cold. Tilting his head back, he let the water splash over his forehead before he straightened up looked at Greg.

Nick raked his eyes over Greg from head to toe before once more meeting Greg’s eyes. “That was amazing. But did you come too?”

Greg smiled and shook his head. “No, I was concentrating on going slow and careful with you. I think my body realized the blood would do more use in my brain.”

Nick chuckled. “Really? I think I need to change that.”

Greg smiled, considering. “That sounds good, but we really need to get out of here before we lose all the hot water.”

Nick nodded and reached behind him to turn off the water. They climbed out of the shower and Greg reached for a towel. He tried to dry Nick off, but Nick pulled him close in a kiss. Once again he was overwhelmed as Nick’s arms came around him and Nick’s tongue plunged into his mouth.

Somehow, Nick managed to dry the both of them off in between kissing Greg full on the lips and trailing his mouth over every inch of skin he could reach, including Greg’s renewed erection.

Greg was surprised when Nick picked him up, wrapping his arms around him and lifting, his feet leaving the floor as Nick again kissed him.

Greg kissed Nick back, loving the play of their lips over each other; he could kiss Nick for ages, nothing else in the world mattered. That is until he ended up on the bed and Nick released his lips, quickly kissing a trail down his chest and stomach to take his cock once again.

Greg gasped as Nick’s mouth closed around him, Nick taking most of him in, feeling the back of Nick’s throat. Nick sucked him, slowly moving up and down before flicking his tongue over the tip of his cock. He gasped again when Nick lowered his mouth to his balls, sucking them in carefully to swirl his tongue around them as well.

Greg’s eyes closed, his head falling back, hands clenching the sheet as Nick’s tongue trailed up the underside of his cock, stopping at the tip before circling it and drawing it between his lips. Nick plunged down again drawing another moan from Greg.

Suddenly, Nick stopped and Greg’s eyes popped open. He looked down his body and met Nick’s eyes. “Whoa, why’d you stop?”

Nick moved up on the bed till he was looking directly into Greg’s eyes, his face only inches away. “I wanted to give you the option of coming inside me.”

Greg’s head was spinning. That would be wonderful, but he wasn’t sure Nick was ready. “Are you sure?”

Nick nodded. “Yes. It felt so good in the shower. I can’t imagine how much better it will feel with more. Get me turned on and you’ll slip right in.”

Greg looked at Nick, not sure what he meant. Nick smiled. “Right at the end. I felt that, you know.”

Greg smiled. “Ok, I guess it didn’t hurt then.”

Nick shook his head. “No. On the contrary, it was great. I want more.”

Greg grinned wider. “Ok. Let’s go for it.”

Nick nodded and stretched out on his back, settling comfortably. Greg reached over and got the bottle of lube from the bedside table and moved down the bed, positioning himself between Nick’s legs.

Nick took a deep breath, preparing for Greg to touch him again. This time when Greg did, Nick didn’t tense. Greg nodded, still going slow, building up to actual penetration.

Nick moaned when Greg pressed the tip of his finger against him. He shifted on the bed, bending his legs slightly to give Greg better access. Greg pressed a bit harder and Nick gasped. “Nick, is that ok?”

Nick nodded and smiled down at him. “It’s better than ok.”

Greg smiled back, the looked down at Nick. He squeezed a bit more lube on his fingers and started to push in. He moved slowly, letting Nick get used to the feel of his finger. Just one finger, slowly, barely moving at all. When he was inside Nick up to the first knuckle he stopped, holding still while Nick adjusted. He watched Nick’s face carefully, seeing a slight tensing around his eyes.

Greg brought his other hand up and slowly stroked Nick’s cock, at the same time kissing him lightly on the thigh. “Nick, are you with me?”

Nick swallowed hard and opened his eyes again. “Yeah. I am.”

“How does that feel?”

“Ok.” Nick answered. Greg furrowed his brow slightly, knowing ‘ok’ was not ‘great’. He could feel Nick tensing again, and concentrated on stroking Nick’s cock. He again kissed Nick’s thigh, trying to get him to relax.

Nick did relax slightly as Greg stroked him, the tension draining some. Greg pushed his finger a bit more, feeling Nick take him half way to the next knuckle. He waited again, ready to be as patient as necessary till Nick was ready. Nick stiffened a bit again and Greg spoke softly. “Nick, it’s ok. We can go as slow as you want. You’re doing great.”

Nick nodded slightly, but didn’t open his eyes. Greg realized he was hiding his discomfort, but Greg could still feel his tension. Wanting to relax Nick even more, Greg leaned over and took him in his mouth. As Greg took him to the back of his throat, Nick gasped. Encouraged, Greg continued, pulling back before plunging down again.

Greg swirled his tongue around Nick’s tip, eliciting a moan and getting Nick to relax a bit more. Greg pushed slightly, timing his finger with his tongue.

Nick moaned, loving the feel of Greg’s tongue on him. He felt Greg take him to the back of his throat as Greg’s finger entered him a bit more. It felt good, and he moved slightly, encouraging Greg to continue. Again Greg flicked his tongue, moving over the sweet spot just under the tip. Nick gasped when Greg slipped his finger in more, his other fingers coming to rest on Nick’s bottom.

Nick realized that meant one of Greg’s fingers was completely inside him. It felt good, but not as good as he’d thought it would. He tried to relax, taking deep breaths and concentrating on the good parts. Suddenly, he wondered how he would be able to take more.

Greg watched Nick, carefully gauging his reactions as he continued to suck Nick’s cock. When he had one finger fully in Nick he waited, his cheek against Nick’s thigh, watching for the softening of expression as Nick accepted it. He watched Nick’s face carefully, waiting for him to open his eyes, to nod, to say something. He continued to hold still, as Nick’s face tightened. He heard Nick start to breathe deliberately, taking deep breaths and letting them out slowly.

Suddenly, he felt Nick tense up around him, gripping tightly. Greg took Nick back in his mouth, trying to distract him, but he heard a sharp intake of breath above him. “Greg! Greg stop, please.”

Greg closed his eyes, taking a deep breath himself. *Patience. Like with a DNA gel. Can’t rush these things.* He took his mouth off Nick, looking up at him. Nick still didn’t open his eyes as he again drew in a sharp breath. “Greg, your finger.”

Greg felt tears stinging his eyes, but he blinked them back angrily. *What the hell?...Stop thinking of yourself, Greg!* He slowly slipped his finger out of Nick and reached for the towel.

He moved up on the bed to lie next to Nick. Finally, Nick opened his eyes and turned to look at him.“Greg, what am I doing wrong?”

Greg took a deep breath and put his hand on Nick’s shoulder. “You’re tensing up. You’re anticipating pain, or at least discomfort, and it’s causing you to tense up.”

"But you said it wouldn’t hurt and I believed you. I still do." Nick looked sincere, desperate to understand.

"I don’t doubt that some part of you does. But your body isn’t listening. It still thinks it’s going to hurt. Maybe cause it has before when you went to the doctor."

"I guess." Nick didn’t look like he believed it. He glanced down at Greg’s chest, fixing his gaze somewhere in the vicinity of Greg’s collarbone.

Greg blinked back the tears again. What could he do to make this situation better? “Nick, whatever the reason, you're tense. When you’re tense, your muscles tighten and it makes it very uncomfortable. You need to relax.”

Nick sighed and rolled over on his back, raised his arm behind his head, and stared at the ceiling. Greg was quiet, waiting to see what Nick would say. He desperately wanted to ask if Nick trusted him, but he didn’t want to make a tense situation worse.

Finally, after a minute of uncomfortable silence, Nick spoke. “You know, I would never have thought of decorating with street signs.”

So many times before Greg had let Nick change the subject to cover his awkwardness, but this time he couldn’t take it. He could be patient, but Nick had to be straight with him. “And your point is?” He tried to say it calmly, but the words had an edge.

Nick turned his head, looked at Greg sharply. “Are you mad at me?”

Greg didn’t want to hurt Nick, but if he had to hold back his feelings any longer he was going to lose it. “You promised to tell me what was going on.”

Nick’s eyes widened slightly. “You _are_ mad at me.”

Greg closed his eyes and took another deep breath before opening them again. “Nick, do you trust me?”

Nick turned, bringing his arms back to his sides and meeting Greg’s eyes. “Yes, you know I do.”

“Then tell me what’s going on.”

“You said yourself - I’m tensing up.”

Greg was on the verge of screaming or crying - he wasn’t sure which. “That’s not what I meant, and you know it. Tell me what you’re thinking. I can’t help you if you don’t tell me how you feel.”

Suddenly, Nick sat up. “How I feel? I feel like an idiot. I offered you this great thing, and I can’t do it.”

Greg was starting to feel bad, wondering if he’d overreacted. “Maybe we just need to slow down.”

Nick scoffed. “Right, we go any slower and we’ll be going backwards.”

Greg reached out to touch him, but Nick shrugged him off and stood up. “No, don’t. I...I need to get out of here. Get some air.” Nick was holding back tears as he wrenched open the bedroom door and grabbed his jeans from the floor of the bathroom.

-----

Greg watched Nick leave the room and he was stunned. He heard the door to his balcony slide open then slide shut and he lost it, tears spilling out of his eyes and down his cheeks.

He fell back against the bed, burying his head in the pillow, letting the sobs come. How could Nick blame himself? If anyone was to blame for it not working, it was Greg. He shouldn’t have pushed Nick that week, shouldn’t have gotten him to change his mind back. He _should_ have just let it go. He wanted to call out to Nick, but how could he follow Nick when he obviously didn’t want to be followed?

Nick stood at the edge of the balcony, gripping the railing and looking over the edge down 27 floors. Usually he would get vertigo doing something like that, but this time it seemed to clear his head. He knew he trusted Greg. That wasn’t the problem. The problem was that he didn’t trust _himself_. He wished he could tell Greg that, but of all the people he _should_ be able to tell, Greg was the one person he couldn’t. He wanted to, but it scared him. So instead of dealing with it, he’d yelled. Yelled at Greg and run out of the room. Greg.....he stopped his thoughts there, not wanting to face his feelings for the younger man behind him. He didn’t want to think about the look on Greg’s face as he’d left the room, didn’t want to think about what Greg could be doing now.

Nick raised his arms, digging the heels of his hands into his eyes. Flashes of scenes, impressions of memories passed behind his eyes: His mother, long dark hair pulled back in a low bun, dark blue dress; Her voice, soft, sorry as she said, “Nick, honey, I’m sorry that Nancy’s sick. You know I’d stay if I could. You’ll like this babysitter. Come on, honey. It’ll be all right.”; Young girl, dark blond hair, white teeth, big smile; Him laughing, a movie on TV; Him crying, waiting for his mother to come home; A girl, dark hair, piercings, taker of his virginity; A frat party, two girls on his arm; Them asking if he’d ever been in love, him laughing; Kristy in front of him, giving him a bottle that said Visine; Kristy’s hand on his shirt, her lips on his cheek; Kristy under him; Kristy dead.

Nick moaned, dropping his hands in fists to his side. He gritted his teeth, willing the memories to stop. Try as he did, the flashes were coming faster: Greg swinging his bag on his shoulder; Greg’s lips under his; Greg walking down the hall; Greg under him; Notes, Greg’s handwriting; Greg’s hands on him in the shower; Tears in Greg’s eyes.

Nick felt the tears on his own face, blurring his vision as he once again gripped the railing. Flashes of his life, slices of when he’d trusted, slices of when he hadn’t. The last slice a time he should have and didn’t. His mind wanted to flash on him in his car going home, but it wasn’t clear. It was blurry like the Vegas skyline in the distance. He didn’t know what it meant, but he was glued to the spot, unable to move and unable to think. He waited, time suspended, for feeling to return.

Greg too waited. Waited to Nick to come back, waited for Nick to see him crying, waited for Nick to hold him or Nick to hurt him again. When Nick didn’t appear he waited for the sound of the sliding glass door followed by the sound of the front door. Waited to hear Nick walking out of his life like he’d walked out of his bedroom.

Time crawled by and Greg wondered how long Nick had been gone. When he still didn’t hear anything he started to get worried. What if Nick never came back in? What if Nick was going to stand out there all night? What if worse? Greg didn’t want to think about worse, but suddenly he had to know.

He brushed at the tears still in his eyes and stood up from the bed. He passed the bathroom, stopping to pick up his sweat pants and pull them on before heading for the balcony. It was night again. He could see the Vegas lights in the background, Nick silhouetted against them, black against green, red, orange, yellow. Greg was relieved Nick was still out there, but he wasn’t sure what to do. He took a deep breath and decided that he’d made it this far. He stepped forward and opened the door.

Nick heard the door open behind him and he struggled to move. He still felt numb, but he was somehow able to turn and see Greg standing there. Standing there shivering, wearing nothing but sweat pants, a cautious expression, and tears running down his face. Something in Nick broke in that moment and he stepped forward. He couldn’t talk, but he could reach out for Greg. He did eagerly, pulling Greg close, feeling Greg’s warm skin against his, Greg’s tears on his chest.

He felt the tears falling from his own eyes again and he was able to talk. “Greg, I’m so sorry. God, I’ve fucked this up.”

Greg shook in his arms as he sobbed. Nick held him tightly, pulling him as close as he could. Greg wrapped his arms around Nick’s waist, holding him just as close. “Jesus, Greg. How could I have hurt you like this? I wish I could rewind time and take it all back. Do it over.”

Greg raised his head and looked at Nick, seeing the hurt in his eyes, the pain in the quiver of his lip, the tears falling from his eyes. Greg wanted it to be ok, desperately wished they could go backwards too. “Nick, I wish we could. God I wish we could.”

Nick shook his head. “Greg, can I have another chance? I know I probably don’t deserve one, but I want to make it up to you.”

Greg closed his eyes, considering. He nodded slowly. “I don’t know why, but yes, I’ll give you another chance.” He waited, wanting...not sure what he wanted, but he waited, hoping Nick would know and give it to him.

Nick leaned forward and kissed him, pressing their lips together. After a moment, he pulled back and lowered his head to Greg’s shoulder, breathing in Greg’s scent. “Thank you.”

Greg held him close, both taking comfort from the other as their tears slowed. After a moment, Greg whispered. “Maybe we’re going about this all wrong.”

Nick raised his head and looked at Greg. “What do you mean?”

Greg hesitated, not sure how Nick would take his suggestion, not even sure if it was a good one. He was still whispering as he continued. “We can’t go backwards, but maybe we can start over. Maybe we should just go back to the way it was.”

Nick wasn’t sure where he was going. “Ok, but how far back are we talking?”

Greg smiled carefully. “Just to before we woke up. Let’s go from there. Give me the chance to drive you crazy. Let me do everything to you; everything but. Let’s not even make that an option.”

Nick smiled back. “That sounds good. Give me a chance to change my reaction and act like I should.”

Greg was surprised. He’d been thinking something like that, but he would never have said so. “I didn’t say that.”

Nick kissed him again, a trace of tears in his eyes again. “Greg, you didn’t have to. I owe it to you to prove to you that I trust you. That I....” he stopped, wanting to continue, but knowing he wasn’t ready.

Greg looked at him. “That you what?”

Nick took a deep breath. “That I want to be with you.” Right, like that was completely honest.

But before he had a chance to consider it further, Greg pulled him close. “Ok. I look forward to it.”

Nick held Greg close, banishing any extraneous thoughts from his mind, concentrating on the feel of Greg in his arms, then the feel of Greg’s lips against his as they kissed, starting the recovery process.

****************************************

Greg pulled on his sneakers, wondering where to go first. He knew he wanted to hit the dollar store and probably the grocery store, but the idea of browsing in so normal a shop bored him almost to tears. He grinned as he decided to try a sex toy shop. *Heck, why not. I should get some silicone based lube anyway. It’ll stay slick under water.* Greg quickly stopped that train of thought; if he continued to think about what he was going to do to Nick, his pants would soon be too uncomfortable for him to be able to actually leave the apartment.

Greg slipped his keys in his pocket and shut the door behind him. He decided to try the big store he’d heard about. It was a little out of his way, but he figured a better selection wouldn’t be a detriment.

Half an hour later Greg was grinning as he pulled open the steel door and showed his ID to the attendant. Once he passed the over 18 approval, the guy returned the grin and nodded at the shop. “Need any help finding anything, just let me know.”

Greg nodded back. “I think I’ll start off by looking around, but thanks.”

Right inside the door was lobby of sorts; he figured it was a holding area in case those entering didn’t pass muster with their ID. He couldn’t see any merchandise, but he guessed that way no one could claim their precious child had been exposed to “nasty stuff” just by walking in the door.

Greg pushed open the wooden door into the main shop, shaking his head at the large red sign that declared no one under 18 beyond that point. Suddenly, he had an idea. He turned and the guy at the door looked up from his magazine. “Think of something?”

“Yeah, where do I get a sign like this?”

The guy thought for a moment. “Never had anyone ask that. I’m not sure. I think the manager’s friend makes signs or something. I can ask for you.”

Greg nodded. “Sure. I collect street signs. Although this isn’t a street sign, it’s professional looking and would be great on my bedroom door.”

The guy was surprised. “I’ve never met anyone who collects street signs. Are they hard to find?”

Greg shook his head. “Nah, you can get them online, some on eBay. Ebay’s great for rare ones from overseas. I got an elephant crossing sign once. Think it’s originally from Zimbabwe.”

“Wow, that must be cool. Hey, by the way, my name’s Jim.”

He stuck out his hand and Greg took it. “Greg.”

“Well, enough bullshitting from me. The boss’ll have my ass if I keep the customers from actually buying.”

Greg laughed. “Don’t worry, I know of at least one thing I’m buying. Hope you’ve got some other things on my list too.”

Jim grinned. “Man, if we ain’t got it, you ain’t gonna find it in Vegas.”

Greg grinned back and shook his head, then turned back to the door, this time pushing it open and stepping in all the way.

It took a second for his eyes to adjust to the brighter lighting, but when they did, he realized what Jim had been talking about. The place was set up more like a department store than any other sex shop he’d seen. The signs hanging from the ceiling declared there was a section for leather, one for latex, another for lace....Greg’s head was spinning a bit. He’d never known there was a place like this. He saw hand baskets stacked by the door and he hesitated, but decided he’d rather carry an empty basket than have to come back for one later.

Greg moved through the store quickly, getting a feel for the place. He could spend hours here, easy, but he had to keep his mind focused on the goal. He was amazed at the selection of costumes available and throughly impressed when he discovered a catalog on a stand at the end of one row. Flipping through he saw every outfit in the aisle available in more sizes, and some costumes that weren’t showcased in the store. And that wasn’t even in the leather section.

Greg allowed himself to peruse the leather section, admiring the thigh high boots and wrist cuffs. Then, he turned the corner and came upon a wall of whips. He stopped, his mouth gaping open a bit. *Wow!*

He stepped forward, realizing as he bumped into a display case that the whips were set off from the customers by a counter. He glanced down at the display case and saw smaller, shorter versions of the ones on the wall, as well as some knives. But it was the wall display that held his attention.

As he stood checking out the selection in amazement, he saw Jim from the corner of his eye. “Hey, Greg. Wanna look at any up close?”

Greg looked at him for a moment, considering. “How about that bullwhip in the upper left?”

Jim nodded, impressed. “She’s a beauty. Only $300.”

Greg nodded. *Good price* Jim took it down off the wall and handed it to Greg. He gripped the handle, letting the thong and fall slip through his fingers. It had a good feel, the handle solid and comfortable in his hand, the rest of the leather smooth and supple. He tried to imagine Nick using it, but he was too overwhelmed just holding it.

Jim watched him for a moment. “You use whips?”

Greg shook his head. “I thought about learning, but to tell the truth, I think I’d rather watch someone else use it.” He grinned.

Jim smiled knowingly. “Pretty damn heady feeling. Get someone willing to learn, send ‘em here. There’s a couple guys here that’ll show ‘em how.”

Greg handed the whip back. “I’ll keep that in mind. Definite possibilities.”

Jim hung the $300 bullwhip back on the wall and turned to Greg. “Wanna look at any others?”

Greg shook his head. “I think I’ll hold off for now. I’m getting way too distracted by this stuff. Not what I came in here for.”

Jim laughed. “We get a lot of people who say that. What are you looking for? I could save you some more distraction; point you in the right direction.”

Greg thought for a moment. “Well, I need some lube, but I was wondering if you had a novelty section.”

Jim nodded. “We have a novelty section over on the left. There’s also the beginners section back by the front, to your right as you come in the door.”

Greg grinned. “Beginner’s section?

Jim grinned back. “Got lots of toned down things, more of the intro stuff. Whether you’re new yourself or initiating someone else.”

Greg laughed. “That’s my stop.”

Jim laughed again. “I figured. The lubricants are on a shelf just outside the section.”

“Thanks. This store just became my new favorite retail hangout.” He grinned and Jim grinned back.

The quickest way Greg could see back to the front and the beginners section was through the vibrators and dildos area. He shook his head at some of the things he passed *something that big has _got_ to be a gag!* and planned to continue walking. That was until he saw a flash of silver out of the corner of his eye. He turned back, wanting to see what it was. There, in a blister pack was a stainless steel probe. Greg reached out and took the package off the hook, flipping it over to read the back. **SENSATIONAL - for the sex toy collector who's ready for something very, very different! 5 inches long with a ribbed 3-inch handle and it's a little over an inch wide. It's 14.7 ounces of stainless steel ready to take anything you can give it! Waterproof, warms to body temperature or chill it for an erotic thrill! Built to last!**

Greg flipped the package back over to check the price. $39.95. *Ok, so why don’t they just call it $40 and be done with it?* He snorted. *At least I’ll save five cents.* He put the metal toy in his basket, which no longer looked lonely with such a respectable purchase in it. Grinning, Greg left the section, heading for the front of the store.

Greg wasn’t sure what to expect from the beginners section, but he was once again impressed. This was where one could start easy (about 15 different massage oils), get a little more daring (speciality condoms), then up the ante even further (fabric restraints and non piercing nipple jewelry.)

Greg browsed eagerly, trying to imagine he was Nick, wondering what would be good to start and wouldn’t freak Nick out too much. He’d promised no toys that evening, but that wasn’t to say that they couldn’t experiment in the future. He put chocolate body paint in his basket which was quickly followed by a massaging bath sponge and glow in the dark bubble bath.

He examined a vibrating brush that looked just like one of those fluffy brushes women put makeup on with. He thought it would be interesting and it was waterproof. He put a blue one in the basket and then stopped himself from adding the liquid latex starter kit. That _would_ freak Nick out. Better to start small, but he made a mental note of where to find it later.

Finally, he reached the end of the section and the shelf of lubricants. He quickly found a silicone based one, checking with the label that it would in fact stay slippery in water and headed for the checkout.

He glanced at his watch as he unloaded the basket onto the counter. He’d been there just under an hour. Time well spent, he thought. Jim came up as he was unloading the last of the packages. “I asked the manager where’d he’d gotten the sign and I was right. A friend of his works for a custom sign shop. I’ve got his card for you.”

Greg took the card and Jim started ringing him up. “Thanks man.”

Jim put all the items in brown bags, folding down the tops. He grinned when Greg shook his head. “Gotta keep up appearances, you know?”

Greg smiled. “That’s ok. My neighbors can just think I got groceries.”

Jim laughed. “Yeah, they’ll never know you were checking out quality bullwhips.”

Greg grinned. “Or that I’m really carrying chocolate body paint.”

“True.” Jim nodded. “Did you need a gift receipt?”

Greg shook his head. “Nah. If they don’t want the gift, I’ll just find someone else to give it to.” He laughed. “Just kidding. Thanks again for the sign info.”

Jim nodded. “Sure. Say hi to Steve on the way out. He’s doing a shift at the outer door.”

Greg nodded back and took his bags and headed for the door. He introduced himself to Steve, who he learned was the manager and found out that he should ask for Tom at the sign store. He thanked Steve for the info and left the store completely satisfied. *I got toys for Nick, a toy for me, and a lead on a new sign. Great shopping trip.* Greg decided a half hour out of the way was definitely not too far.

****************************************

Nick moved about his house, straightening it up, preparing for Greg to arrive. He sighed when he found himself shuffling a stack of mail for the third time, not really concentrating on the envelopes. He quickly flipped through them, determined they were all junk, and tossed them in the garbage.

He was trying not to think about later that night, but if he didn’t think about that, he thought about earlier that night. Neither one was preferred, but thinking about earlier made him more tense for later.

Nick sighed again and picked up a stack of clean towels from the couch, heading for the linen closet. As he arranged them on a shelf, he noticed an envelope of photos stashed next to light bulbs and toilet paper. Puzzled, he pulled it out, flipping it open quickly. He smiled when he saw his own face staring back at him. He’d forgotten all about these photos, taken just a few months ago at the impromptu Labor Day party. He shuffled through the pictures quickly, stopping suddenly when he saw one of him and Greg. It was
a great picture, the sun was shining, but he and Greg were in a bit of shade, neither wearing sunglasses and neither squinting, both smiling widely. He had his arm around Greg, leaning toward him slightly. Nick tried to remember why he’d been standing like that; it came back to him suddenly.

***
Nick finished his hot dog and wiped his hands before dropping his napkin in the trash. He saw Greg standing off under a tree, looking out over the party. Nick was puzzled; he would have thought Greg would be mingling with the others. He walked over, determined to find out what was up. "Hey, Greggo! Why aren’t you over hanging with everyone?"

Greg shrugged. "Just getting out of the sun for a moment. I felt a headache coming on."

Nick looked at him. "Forgot your sunglasses?"

Greg shook his head, reaching into a pocket. He pulled out a set of lenses with only one earpiece attached. "Nope, broke ‘em."

Nick pulled off his own sunglasses, taking a closer look at the pair Greg held out. "Yeah, you did a number on ‘em. That sucks. Hey, I’ve got another pair in my locker. Want me to get them for you?"

Greg nodded. "That would be great."

Before Nick had a chance to leave the party though, Sara came over, wielding a camera she must have borrowed from evidence. "Smile guys!"

Nick and Greg looked at each other and rolled their eyes. Greg was the one to respond though. "Oh, come on Sara."

Sara lowered the camera and looked at them. "Guys! Live a little. I’ve already got everyone else. Give each other bunny ears if you want, just let me take my shot and leave."

They shook their heads again, not sure why she was so insistent. Nick moved to put his arm around Greg, but before he had a chance to lift his two fingers in a V to make the ears, Sara snapped the picture.
***

Nick hadn’t been sure she’d taken the pic without his fingers until he’d seen the prints. He also hadn’t been aware there was color loaded in the camera. When he first saw the prints, he thought something could be read into him with his arm around Greg, so he’d taken the picture and the negative. He wasn’t sure why, but he’d taken all the other pictures with him in them as well; he wasn’t big on having others be able to see them. Now, as he looked at the one of him and Greg, he smiled. Three months later he was in a relationship with Greg and he had a great picture of the two of them without even trying.

He studied it, wondering if it would fit in his wallet. He decided with a little trimming it would. He picked up a pair of scissors and made the necessary adjustments, losing a bit of the tree and his and Greg’s waists, but keeping both faces and the arm around Greg.

Nick grinned as he slipped the picture in his wallet; no matter what had happened earlier that night, he had a chance to make it right. He squared his shoulders and took a deep breath, telling himself that he owed Greg a lot. He had insisted he was in control, but maybe it was time to give that control up for a bit.

Nick put the rest of the Labor Day pictures back in the linen closet and went to splash cold water on his face. He studied his reflection, trying to understand the man in the mirror. He wanted to know why the idea of letting go scared him so much, wanted to know why he couldn’t just relax and have fun. The man in the mirror knew the answer, but the one staring into it didn’t want to face it. Nick knew there would be a time to deal with his deeper emotions, deal with the reasons behind his fear, but he refused to dwell on that now; Greg didn’t need a basket case on his hands. Instead, he swore he was going to relax and enjoy the evening, give Greg the respect he deserved, and not stress out over feelings he couldn’t control.

Nick took another deep breath and reached for a towel, wiping his face dry. He glanced at his watch as he hung the towel up; Greg was due any minute. He tried to think of any last thing he needed to do, but he knew there was nothing. Anything he did do would just be killing time. He was about to grab a magazine and read when there was a knock on the door.

Suddenly, his heart was hammering in his chest; what if Greg had changed his mind? What if he had decided that this relationship wasn’t worth the pain Nick had put him through? Nick swallowed, forcing down the lump in his throat and went to get the door.

He opened it slowly, not sure what to expect. *That’s dumb, you idiot. You expect Greg. What else could you possibly be thinking?* Greg was standing there, bookbag slung over one shoulder, hand raised to knock again.

Greg looked at Nick as he opened the door, wondering why he looked like his world was about to end. "Should I leave and come back in a little bit?"

Nick’s expression changed to one of puzzlement. "No, why?"

Greg grinned and shrugged. "You looked like you were dreading opening the door."

Nick shook his head, smiling carefully. "No, just wasn’t sure you would actually be there."

Greg stepped forward and kissed him lightly on the lips. He pulled back and whispered, "Yeah, I’m here. Now, can I come in?"

Nick shook his head, the careful smile growing wider and more genuine. "Yes, I’m sorry. Please, come in."

Greg winked and stepped inside. "That’s better." He stepped inside and dropped his bag. He looked around, noticing that Nick had straightened up. "Expecting someone?"

Nick was puzzled. "I don’t follow."

Greg turned back to him and grinned. "You didn’t have to clean the place up for me."

Nick nodded. "Yes I did. You deserve a clean house…you deserve my best." He stepped forward and kissed Greg lightly on the lips. "I promise to be a good boy and have fun. You said you wanted to drive me crazy; I’m giving you the wheel."

Greg studied Nick’s face, looking for any sign that he was uncomfortable. He didn’t see any, just a sincere expression. Greg realized Nick was being honest and he vowed to do everything in his power to make Nick feel as fantastic as possible. He nodded, then smiled, watching as Nick returned the smile. *Ok, now the fun begins!*

Greg took Nick’s hand and led him to the couch. Nick was puzzled and looked toward the bedroom, but Greg smiled and shook his head. When he reached the sofa, he pulled Nick down beside him then leaned in for a kiss.

As Greg’s lips touched his, Nick sighed and leaned closer. Greg kissed him firmly, teasing Nick’s parted lips with the tip of his tongue, but not deepening the kiss further.

Greg ran his hands over Nick, caressing his back, sides, and chest. Nick moaned as Greg’s thumb brushed his nipple. Greg repeated the movement then suddenly pushed him backwards, breaking lip contact.

Nick was startled, but Greg smiled and nodded, indicating he should lie back. Nick settled against a stack of pillows and waited, not saying anything, while Greg half kneeled on the couch, one leg still on the floor, and leaned over him.

Greg winked and once more touched his lips to Nick’s. Nick followed his lead, pressing hard against him, but Greg quickly pulled back til he was barely touching Nick. Nick sat up slightly, trying to follow, but Greg stood up completely. Nick was worried for a second until Greg straddled his waist, pinning him down with one leg on either side. Nick grinned and raised his hands to Greg’s back, trying to pull Greg down on top of him.

Greg shook his head, leaned over, and rested his elbows on Nick’s shoulders. Nick dropped his hands to Greg’s hips, once more wondering what Greg had in mind.

Greg smiled again and raised his hands to either side of Nick’s face, holding his head still. Greg stared into his eyes for a moment, then roamed his gaze over Nick’s face, studying the slope of his nose and the curve of his lips. He saw Nick’s pupils dilate as his lips parted and his breathing increased. Greg continued to stare at Nick, his face only inches away. He felt every exhale brush lightly over his skin, and Nick’s arousal under his hips.

After a moment more of studying Nick’s face, Greg leaned closer and just barely brushed his lips across Nick’s. He moved his head slowly back and forth, holding his mouth still, letting the movement of his head direct the feathery touch of his lips. Nick moaned slightly and Greg paused in his movement. He leaned in closer, pressing his lips against Nick a bit more before pulling back once again. He repeated this a few more times, lightly brushing his lips across Nick’s then pressing down hard for a few seconds while he kept a firm hold on Nick’s head, not letting the other man move.

Nick gripped Greg’s waist, pulling them together. As Greg felt Nick buck his hips up and grind against him, Greg stuck out his tongue. Still moving deliberately, he ran just the tip of his tongue over Nick’s parted lips. He outlined them slowly, from one corner of Nick’s mouth to the other, first the upper and then the lower. As he finished his circuit, he came back to the middle and stuck his tongue out a bit more, pushing it softly between Nick’s lips.

Nick moaned and tried to move his head up; tried to deepen the kiss. Greg felt Nick’s tongue moving to meet his and he pulled back slowly, encouraging Nick to follow with his tongue. Within a hair’s distance of Nick’s lips, but not quite touching them, Greg whispered, “Nick, stick out your tongue.”

Greg could see the effect he had on Nick. As he whispered, he breathed out slowly, blowing over Nick’s wet lips. Nick shivered and moaned, then stuck out his tongue. Greg shifted his eyes up to meet Nick’s, but he had his them closed. Greg whispered, “Open your eyes.”

Greg met Nick’s eyes, brown staring into brown, as he closed the gap again, pulling Nick’s tongue into his mouth. He wrapped his lips around it, barely sucking at first and then increasing the pressure. Greg sucked on Nick’s tongue for a moment as he pressed down with his hips, rocking slightly as he ground into Nick.

Nick moaned against his mouth and the slight vibrations it caused made Greg shiver. When he sensed that Nick couldn’t take it anymore, he released the pressure on Nick’s tongue and opened his mouth, pressing his lips against Nick’s fully. He saw Nick close his eyes again, and he let his fall shut as well, moving on touch rather than sight.

Greg moved his hands slightly, moving from holding Nick’s head still to running his fingers slowly through Nick’s hair. Soft strands slipped through his fingers as his tongue slipped into Nick’s mouth. Nick grasped Greg’s hips tighter as he met Greg’s tongue with his own.

Greg let the kiss proceed for a few minutes, his lips moving freely over Nick’s; their tongues entwining and sliding over each other. He felt Nick’s warm breath on his cheek and knew his was the same on Nick’s. He reveled in feelings, forgetting for a minute he was running the show as he got caught up in the feel of Nick’s mouth on his, Nick’s hair under his fingers, Nick’s body under him, and Nick pressing their hips together.

After a moment, Greg pulled back again, missing the feel of Nick’s lips against his, but knowing that he needed to keep control. Once more he opened his eyes and bade Nick to do the same. He reached one hand up and ran it lightly over Nick’s face, gently outlining Nick’s eyebrows before trailing the tip of a finger down the slope of Nick’s nose. He moved slowly, barely touching skin to skin. He continued the trail of his finger over Nick’s cheek then along the edge of his jaw to his chin. When he reached Nick’s chin, Greg shifted his hand, and ran the backs of his fingers over the slight stubble on Nick’s cheek.

Greg ran his hand to Nick’s chin again, before moving to trace Nick’s lips lightly with the tip of one finger. He knew he was driving Nick crazy; he moaned softly and tried to trap Greg’s finger. Greg paused for a moment, and Nick closed his lips around the finger, sucking on just the tip, while once more bucking his hips and pressing against Greg.

Greg smiled and pulled his finger from Nick’s mouth, resting it along his cheek. Greg ran his thumb over Nick’s lower lip, slowly teasing him. Suddenly, he pinched Nick’s lip between thumb and forefinger. Nick gasped and Greg released him, then resumed his stroking.

Once more Greg grabbed Nick’s lip, pulling just enough to stretch the skin. He kept his fingers in place while he leaned over to kiss Nick again. As his lips made contact with Nick’s, he dropped his fingers and pressed hard. Once more he saw Nick close his eyes and he did the same.

Greg was going crazy. He’d been kissing Nick for what seemed like forever, but he was reaching the breaking point. He would only be able to do this slow tease for a few more minutes before he knew he was going to have to move and let his lips trail over more than Nick’s face. But first he had one more trick up his sleeve.

Greg met Nick’s lips firmly, quickly deepening the kiss and pushing his tongue into Nick’s mouth. Nick eagerly opened wide, allowing Greg easy access. Greg quickly pushed his tongue up and hooked it behind Nick’s upper teeth. He kept his tongue pointed and ran it along the roof of Nick’s mouth, as far back as he could. He felt Nick grow still under him, not sure what to make of this new move. Greg didn’t stop there, though. He slipped his tongue sideways and quickly ran it along the inside of Nick’s teeth before reaching the front of his mouth. Nick tried to follow him, brushing his tongue as Greg explored the outside of Nick’s teeth.

The whole mouth took only a few seconds, but time stretched out for Greg as he felt Nick grow hotter under him. He felt a flush crawl across Nick’s face as the skin under his hands got warmer, and Nick’s breath grew even more erratic. He felt Nick moan again as he finished his circuit and twirled his tongue completely around Nick’s. He flicked the tip of his tongue against the underside of Nick’s before pulling back and opening his eyes.

Greg saw Nick’s lips part, his tongue trying to follow as his eyes popped open. Greg smiled down at him, watching the other man gasp slightly. “Ready for more?” he whispered, brushing back damp hair from Nick’s forehead.

Nick moaned again and shook his head slightly. “I don’t think I could take much more of that. I never thought that you could overwhelm someone so throughly just kissing.”

Greg winked at him. “I have lots more to show you. But first you have to get naked.” He shifted his weight off of Nick and stood up.

-----

He smiled at Nick as he reached for his bag. “Give me five minutes to set up for the next thing I’m going to do to you. In the meantime, I want you to get completely undressed.” He winked as Nick looked puzzled and started to undo his belt.

Greg quickly scooped up his bag and headed for the kitchen. He pulled a glass out of the cabinet and put in a few ice cubes then quickly put the glass in the bedroom. Next, he headed for the bathroom. Closing the door behind him, he put his bad on the closed toilet seat.

First he pulled out the glow in the dark bubble bath then stopping the tub, he started the water and poured in a capful of bubbles. As the tub filled with warm, bubbled water, Greg reached into his bag again. He pulled out three large pillar candles, the kind with three wicks. He put two on the toilet tank, and the third on the side of the sink. Then he pulled out a pack of matches and lit all the wicks. Finally, he pulled out the vibrating bath sponge, a small plastic candy dish, and the bottle of lube. He placed all these on the floor between the tub and the side of the toilet, out of the way till later.

As the tub finished filling, Greg slipped out of all his clothes but his boxers. *Hope Nick likes them as much as he thought he would.* He smiled at himself in the mirror before flipping off the overhead light. By the light of the candles, Greg shut off the water then opened the door.

Nick was standing just outside the door, and Greg almost bumped into him. Greg smiled slowly, taking him in from head to toe, his gaze lingering on Nick’s midsection, admiring the rigid cock before him. Greg took a step closer and brushed his lips over Nick’s again.

Nick shivered and Greg winked. “I think it’s time to get you into the warm water then.”

Nick leaned over and kissed Greg again. “I love the boxers. I guess since you’re wearing them you’re not going to join me in the tub?”

Greg shrugged. “Why don’t you take them off of me before you get in?”

Nick grinned and reached for Greg. He ran his hands down Greg’s side, to his hips, then dropped them lower and rubbed them over his thighs. Greg gasped when Nick’s hands moved again, stroking his erection; he loved the way the caress felt through the silk. “God, that feels good!”

Nick grinned even wider and moved his hands up again to the waistband of the boxers. He quickly hooked his thumbs under the elastic and pulled them off. Greg shivered himself as the silk brushed over him on its way to the floor.

Nick leaned down to pick them up. Greg steadied himself with a hand on Nick’s shoulder as Nick motioned for him to lift his feet to free the boxers.

Greg looked down at Nick, wondering what he had in mind as he started to straighten up again. Nick paused, and looked up to meet Greg’s eyes before taking Greg’s cock in his mouth.

Greg moaned and closed his eyes, enjoying the feel of Nick’s warm wetness around him. He felt Nick take him all in and then pull back, slowly, trailing his tongue. Suddenly, Greg felt Nick brush his ass with the silk boxers. Greg gasped as he felt the smooth material on one side and Nick’s mouth on the other. Nick winked and started to move faster.

Greg knew that it would be over too quickly if he let Nick continue. He pushed Nick’s shoulder. Nick looked puzzled, but Greg motioned at the bathtub. “We better get in before the water gets cold.”

Nick nodded and stood up. “How do you want to do this?”

“You get in and I’ll squeeze in behind you.”

Nick nodded again and got in the tub. Greg reached for a bottle of bath gel, placed it on the side of the tub, then slipped in behind Nick.

Nick sighed and closed his eyes as Greg pulled him back against his chest and placed a kiss on the top of his head. Greg savored the feel of Nick’s back against him, loving the sensation of skin on skin. He closed his eyes briefly, breathing deeply. He smelled the faint sharpness of burnt match and a tang of cologne from Nick. The only sound was water against the side of the tub as it settled.

Greg ran his hands over Nick’s arm and sides, lightly skimming his fingertips over Nick’s flushed skin. His fingers drew lazy circles on Nick’s chest, brushing over his nipples while the tip of his tongue traced the curve of Nick’s ear. Nick gasped when Greg gently bit his earlobe, then moaned as Greg sucked at the soft spot just behind it.

A moment later, Greg reached over the side of the tub and picked up the candy dish. As Greg shifted, Nick opened his eyes and moved his head, watching him. He looked puzzled as he saw what Greg held. “What’s that for?”

Greg smiled and dipped the dish in the warm water. “This,” he said as he spilled the water over Nick’s chest. Nick shivered slightly and closed his eyes as the water glided along his skin. Greg continued dipping and pouring, throughly wetting Nick’s shoulders, chest, and arms. Greg enjoyed watching the water slide down Nick’s chest, running in narrow rivulets around his muscles, making abstract trails over the skin. He dipped the bowl again and again, experimenting with trickling the water out, or just emptying it all at once.

Greg felt Nick shift under him, Nick’s ass sliding against him. Nick smiled, still not opening his eyes as he deliberately pressed back. Still dipping and pouring with one hand, Greg slipped the other between their bodies, sliding his hand under the water to grab Nick’s behind. Nick wagged his eyebrows as he felt Greg pinch him slightly, then gasped as Greg slipped one finger down his crack to flick over his opening. Greg smiled to himself before putting the bowl down again and resting his hands on Nick’s chest.

Nick opened his eyes again, looking at Greg expectantly. Greg smiled at him, but didn’t move to do anything else for a moment. Nick sighed and settled more firmly against Greg. He was incredibly turned on, but loving the slow, drawn out stimulation. He dipped a hand in the bubbles and raised some out of the water, examining them by the light of the candles. “I love the glow in the dark bubbles. Where’d you find them?” He looked over his shoulder at Greg, meeting his eyes.

Greg grinned wider and winked. “The same place I got this,” he replied as he reached for the bath sponge. Nick’s expression was puzzled until Greg flipped the switch, turning it on to the lowest setting.

As the low hum filled the bathroom Nick smiled. “This is definitely turning out to be an interesting evening.”

Greg winked again. “I’m far from done.” Nick moaned softly, wondering what else Greg had in mind and anticipating the feel of the bath sponge on his skin.

Greg dipped the sponge in the water, getting it wet before adding a bit of bath gel. Nick watched as Greg worked the gel into a lather, then lowered it to his chest.

Greg ran the soapy sponge all over Nick’s chest, outlining the muscles with white foam and coming up to his shoulders. He ran the sponge over Nick’s collarbone and down his arms, gently scrubbing the skin there as well.

Nick moaned again as Greg continued to wash him. The sponge was soft and would have been enough to make him moan, but the vibrations sent shivers through him. When Greg brushed it over a nipple, he moaned louder; the sponge sent a shock down his body, straight to his cock. Greg moved it, not wanting to get Nick too close just yet. He swept the sponge up to Nick’s collarbone again, trailing it along his shoulder. Nick leaned back slightly and sighed. “That thing feels so good. I should get you to do this more often.”

“Hmm...maybe so. I’m still not done though.” Greg responded. He pushed on Nick’s shoulders slightly, indicating that he should sit up. With Nick in a more upright position, Greg was able to reach his shoulders and back easily.

He rubbed the sponge over Nick’s back, scrubbing slightly. Nick moaned. “Ooo, that feels good. I love having someone wash my back.” Greg moved the sponge in slow circles over Nick’s skin, dipping lower until he was at the water level. He continued his circles under the water, rubbing the sponge over Nick’s ass. Nick leaned forward, pulling off the floor of the tub a bit, giving Greg easier access.

Nick moaned as Greg moved the vibrating softness over his ass. It had felt good on his back, like a massage, but below his waist was a whole new sensation. He wondered what it would be like to feel it over his opening. He felt himself blushing at the thought of asking. But he wouldn’t know unless he _did_ ask. He took a deep breath and let it out in a rush of words. “Hey, Greg. Can you try that a little lower, more inside, you know?” He couldn’t look over his shoulder to see the expression on Greg’s face.

Greg was surprised, but glad. He looked at Nick’s face, knowing Nick was avoiding meeting his eyes. But Nick couldn’t hide the deep flush that rose to his skin. Greg smiled gently and continued his slow circles over Nick, moving closer and closer to the ring of muscle Nick so desperately wanted touched. Nick moaned loudly as Greg touched the area, holding the sponge in place for a moment before moving it away again.

Nick felt his muscles jumping, twitching from the vibrations. It felt just as good as he’d thought it would, maybe even better. He wanted the feeling to continue, wanted to get lost in the sensations, but he wasn’t sure how much more of this prolonged release he could take.

Greg moved the sponge from Nick, brushing it over his ass once more before the soap ran out completely. He squeezed out as much water as he could, then switched it off, setting it aside and reaching for the dish again. He quickly rinsed off Nick’s front and back, watching the suds slide from Nick’s clean skin.

Nick sighed as the water flowed over him, the intense edge the vibrating bath sponge had given him easing a bit. He desperately wanted Greg to touch him, even briefly considered doing it himself, but realized that Greg must be just as turned on as him, and if Greg could control himself for a bit longer, he could too. But that didn’t stop him from suggesting it. He looked back over his shoulder, meeting Greg’ eyes. “Did you miss a spot?”

Greg shook his head and grinned. “Nope, just haven’t gotten there yet. I’m saving the best for last. But, first, I’m going to wash your hair.” Greg dipped the bowl again and Nick leaned his head back, closing his eyes. Greg quickly wet his hair then squeezed a bit of shampoo into his hands.

Greg rubbed his fingers through Nick’s hair, massaging his scalp as he cleaned. Nick sighed in contentment. “Ok, I can wait a little longer. This is really nice too.” Greg smiled and worked his hands down the back of Nick’s head, rubbing the back of his neck.

When Nick’s hair was throughly soaped up, Greg rinsed off his hands and reached for the bowl again. Using the backs of his fingers, he directed the water over Nick’s hair and away from his face. Nick sighed again as Greg brushed his forehead and temples lightly with his fingers. “I’ve always liked the shampoo before a cut, but this is better.” He opened his eyes and winked at Greg.

Greg winked back and grinned at him. “Thanks. I may just have to do this again.”

When Nick’s hair was completely rinsed, he looked back over his shoulder at Greg. He wagged his eyebrows and shifted his hips so that he was rubbing against Greg’s erection under the water.

Greg shook his head with a smile. “I guess that I can’t neglect that one spot anymore.” He paused for a moment. “So, time to wash your legs.”

He laughed when Nick’s eyes grew wide, then kissed him on the temple. “Just kidding. You know that I mean to rub my slick hands over that big, hard cock of yours. It was hard holding off this long, but I promise it will be worth it.” Nick swallowed thickly and nodded.

Greg picked up the bottle of lube, squeezed some on his hands, then instructed Nick, “Lean back against me. Way back.”

Greg settled back, encouraging Nick to follow him. Nick leaned back against him, his cock lifting mostly free of the water. Greg smiled and reached one hand down to grasp Nick, the other resting on Nick’s chest.

Greg closed his hand around Nick, stoking up and down slowly, setting up a rhythm. Nick moaned, the contact incredibly satisfying after so long. He settled back against Greg more comfortably. “God, that feels good. _Don’t_ stop.”

Greg smiled to himself as Nick’s eyes closed once again. He continued to move his hand in slow strokes, increasing the speed every few. After a few moments he moved his other hand across Nick’s abdomen, over his hip and thigh, then between their bodies. He had to push slightly on Nick’s hip to get the other man to move. Nick shifted, allowing Greg access between them. He started to say something, probably in protest, but as he moved, he thrust against Greg’s hand and gasped instead.

Greg quickly moved his free hand down between them again, over Nick’s ass and to his opening. He felt Nick stiffen slightly as he pressed at the opening. “It’s ok. Remember - no penetration. I’m just applying pressure. Relax and enjoy what I’m doing to you.”

Nick nodded and then gasped again as Greg sped up the motion of his hand. Greg felt his own cock rock hard against Nick’s back as he squeezed Nick’s cock in one hand and pressed against his opening with two fingers of the other. Greg sped up even more, increasing the pressure of his grip at the same time. He heard Nick’s breath increase and grow shallower as he stroked. Greg moved his fingers over Nick’s opening, the lube staying slippery, his fingers sliding easily over the tight muscle.

Greg could tell Nick was getting closer and he leaned over and whispered in Nick’s ear. “Feels great, doesn’t it?” Nick moaned in response, but Greg continued. “Nick, I love having your cock in my hand. I love feeling it hand slide up and down you, knowing it’s making you crazy. Know what else I like? Pressing against you like this.” He pressed hard against Nick underwater and Nick cried out incoherently.

“Nick, you don’t have to answer me with words, but I want you to come. Can you do that for me?” Nick moaned again and Greg smiled. “That’s it. I want to feel you let go. Come for me, Nick.” Greg sped up his hand on Nick’s cock, going as fast as he could, while at the same time he rubbed his fingers over Nick’s opening, pushing him towards the edge.

Suddenly, Nick grew still, all his muscles tensed, and he cried out loudly. Greg felt the contractions along his cock and the splash of warm wetness. He held Nick gently, both arms around his chest as Nick recovered.

When Nick had regained a bit of his breath, he straightened up slightly, and Greg splashed some water on him, rinsing him off.

Greg stood and stepped from the tub, beckoning Nick to follow him. He reached for a towel, then used it to dry Nick off. He moved slowly, carefully drying every part, rubbing firmly, but not harshly. He started with Nick’s head, getting his hair mostly dry, but leaving it messy. As Greg moved to Nick’s shoulders he kissed Nick softly on the lips. “You look so sexy standing here like this. I need to get you tousled more often.”

Nick smiled. “I suspect that by the time you’re finished I’ll be considerably more so.”

Greg grinned and continued drying him. He worked his way down Nick’s chest, pausing a moment to flick his tongue out and over Nick’s nipples, one at a time. Before Nick could get used to that feeling, Greg moved on, rubbing the towel over Nick’s stomach, hips and thighs. He moved behind Nick, squatting down to dry Nick’s legs, admiring the curve of calf into knee.

Greg leaned sideways and kissed Nick on the knee. Nick chuckled and Greg looked up at him. He shrugged and Greg dropped back, running his tongue across the hollow behind Nick’s knee and up the back of his thigh.

Nick gasped and Greg smiled to himself. He repeated the movement on the other leg; this time Nick moaned. Encouraged, Greg continued the trail, moving his tongue up over Nick’s ass. He paused a moment, and brought a hand up to caress Nick’s back and butt at the same time. Then once more he leaned over and ran his tongue over Nick, savoring the taste of warm, clean skin. He felt Nick shift slightly and realized Nick was leaning on the sink with one hand. Greg smiled again, but didn’t stop.

Nick moaned, louder this time as Greg gently scraped his teeth over Nick, not biting, but not soft either. Greg continued to move his mouth over Nick’s ass, swirling his tongue in little circles, occasionally nibbling at the sensitive skin while he used his hands to knead the firm muscles.

After a few moments, Greg continued his path up Nick’s body, running his tongue up the center of Nick’s back, outlining his shoulder bones with the tip. He moved his hands around Nick’s front, running them over his chest and stomach as he licked a trail over shoulders and nibbled his way up Nick’s neck. Greg leaned forward and gently took Nick’s earlobe in his mouth. Nick moaned loudly as Greg whispered, “I’m tired of the bathroom. I want you in the bedroom. Now.”

He released Nick and stepped around him, opening the bathroom door. Nick walked into the bedroom and quickly climbed onto the bed. Greg grabbed the bottle of lube, quickly doused the candles and followed him, motioning for him to stretch out on his back. Nick quickly complied, commenting, “You know, when I pictured you on your knees it was in front of me sucking my cock. Not behind me licking my ass.”

Greg looked at him and raised his eyebrows. “Are you complaining now?”

Nick quickly shook his head. “No, just thinking I’m going to have update my fantasies.”

Greg grinned and moved down on the bed, settling between Nick’s legs. Now that he was really looking, he saw that Nick was getting hard again. He wasn’t fully erect, but Greg planned on changing that soon.

Greg leaned over and slowly took Nick in his mouth, lowering as far as he could, drawing a sigh from Nick. Greg raised his head again slowly, enjoying the feel of Nick in his mouth. When he reached the head, he flicked his tongue over the tip. Nick moaned when Greg started his slow descent once more, taking Nick in as much as possible. This time when he had gone as far as he could, he came back up fast, quickly moving up and down a few times, feeling Nick grow rock hard in his mouth, and loving how it felt.

Greg brought one hand up and grasped Nick’s cock, stroking with his hand and mouth at the same time. He reached the tip of Nick’s cock and lifted his head slightly, only his hand in contact with skin. Greg stuck out his tongue and flicked the tip just under the head of Nick’s cock as he continued stroking with his hand. Nick moaned again and Greg moved his hand faster; hearing Nick’s breathing speed up.

Suddenly, he dropped Nick’s cock from his hand and straightened. Nick looked puzzled, but Greg winked at him then reached over and picked up the glass with the ice. Nick’s eyes grew wide as Greg tipped a cube into his hand.

He moved down on the bed again, once more settling between Nick’s legs. Lightly holding the ice cube, he ran it around Nick’s knee, pausing at the little hollow just under the knee cap. Nick gasped at the first touch of the ice, then moaned as Greg leaned over and kissed his knee. Greg licked up the traces of water, leaving a warm trail where the cold ice had just been. He flicked his tongue over the spot where he’d paused the ice, then sucked briefly on the sensitive area.

Then once more Greg moved the cube, this time running it up Nick’s thigh, moving slowly, the melting ice running in tiny rivulets down Nick’s thigh. When he reached the apex of the thigh, Greg stopped and backtracked, using his tongue to caress Nick’s skin, lapping up the trail of cold water. Nick moaned loudly, the muscle in his thigh twitching as Greg kissed and licked his way across it.

The ice cube was half melted when Greg moved to the other leg and repeated the ice trick there. By the time Greg’s tongue was finished with Nick’s other thigh, Nick was panting. “Greg, please...”

Greg looked up at him and winked. “Shh, I’m not even close to being done yet.”

Nick moaned again and squirmed on the bed. Only a restraining hand from Greg stopped him from sitting up. Greg shook his head and smiled. “Just lie there and enjoy.”

Greg reached for the glass again, tipping another cube into his hand. This time, he closed his fist around the ice and held it over Nick’s erect cock. The warmth of his hand melted the ice a bit, and cold water dripped from his fist directly onto Nick.

Nick gasped again, his cock twitching slightly as he contracted his muscles involuntarily. Greg quickly lowered his lips over Nick, taking him all the way in his warm mouth. Greg moved his head up and down, completely covering Nick’s cock with the warmth of his lips and tongue before pulling back again. Nick whimpered as Greg once more stopped sucking him.

Greg grinned, and holding the ice cube in just he tips of his fingers, ran it directly over Nick’s cock, barely touching the sensitive skin. He avoided touching the tip of Nick’s cock, but he ran it in little swirls over Nick’s entire length. Nick shivered, and Greg quickly leaned down again to take Nick in his mouth. As he took Nick all the way in, he flicked his tongue, imitating the motions of the ice with his tongue.

By the time he pulled back again, Nick was moaning incoherently. Greg knew he was quickly approaching the edge, but he wasn’t ready for Nick to come yet. Once more, he dropped Nick from his mouth and pulled back. He ran the ice cube across his lips, feeling them cool him down before popping the cube in his mouth.

Nick’s eyes grew wide as he realized what Greg was going to do and he moaned even louder as Greg once again bent over and took Nick in his mouth. Greg moved the rapidly melting ice cube around in his mouth, bringing it into contact with Nick’s cock and then moving it away again to replace it with his tongue. Nick continued to moan and started to buck his hips. Out of the corner of his eye, Greg saw one of Nick’s hands grasping the sheets, then looking up further he saw Nick’s other hand wrapped around the posts on the headboard.

When the ice cube had melted completely, Greg dropped Nick’s cock from his mouth and lowered his head. Before Nick could protest, he raised a hand and wrapped it around Nick’s cock, firmly stroking him, while he took Nick’s balls in his mouth.

Greg slowly rolled Nick around in his mouth, sucking gently. He licked Nick all over, running the tip of his tongue up the seam of skin. Then he pushed on Nick’s thighs slightly, encouraging him to spread his legs further. Greg dropped his head a bit more and ran his tongue over the stretch of skin just behind Nick’s balls; Nick gasped at the sensation.

Greg pressed in with his tongue, careful to maintain the motion of his hand on Nick’s cock. When he heard Nick’s breathing quicken, he lightly dug his teeth in, scraping them over Nick’s skin. He heard Nick cry out above him. “God, Greg. That feels fantastic!”

Greg licked up and down the small area of taut skin, coming closer and closer to Nick’s puckered opening. He gauged Nick’s reaction, not wanting to startle him. Then, sensing Nick was really into it, he took a deep breath and brushed his tongue over the opening. Nick gasped, and grew stiff. Greg moved his free hand up to knead Nick’s thigh, gently encouraging him to relax.

Nick relaxed, letting his muscles go. Encouraged, Greg again swept his tongue over Nick’s opening. This time he was rewarded with a moan. Before Nick could say anything, Greg flicked his tongue back and forth over the sensitive area, pressing in slightly. Nick gasped again and pressed his hips down, encouraging Greg to continue.

Greg swept his tongue back and forth a few more times then he straightened, moving up on the bed again. Nick looked at him, a puzzled look on his face, but Greg just reached for the bottle of lube.

He let go of Nick’s cock and flipped open the top on the bottle. After dripping a little of the lube onto two fingers of one hand, he put the bottle down again. Keeping his hand steady, he lowered his head and kissed Nick’s chest, quickly flicking his tongue over Nick’s nipples before kissing a trail up to Nick’s mouth.

When his lips met Nick’s, Nick quickly kissed back. Greg felt Nick’s fingers in his hair, pulling his head closer as Nick’s tongue pushed between his lips. Greg moved to lie down next to Nick, not breaking lip contact, and not dripping the lube from his fingers either.

Greg crooked his fingers, feeling the lube flow down them, while he used the other two on that hand to push at Nick’s thigh. Nick must have sensed what he wanted, cause he brought his knees up, his feet flat on the bed. Greg quickly caught the leg near him between his own, pressing his hardness into Nick’s thigh as he moved his hand down Nick’s body, dipping below his balls.

He paused, not wanting to touch Nick until he was sure Nick was ready. He broke the kiss and Nick’s eyes popped open. Greg smiled softly then spoke. “Nick, I’m going to keep playing with you, but I’m not going to try anything more than just rubbing. Let me know if it gets to be too much.”

Nick nodded, trusting Greg to drive him crazy. For a split second he thought about Greg pushing into him and wondered if he should try again. Then he figured he’d have more fun if he just relaxed and let Greg lead the show. “Please, touch me.”

Greg nodded back and lowered his lips to Nick’s again. His fingers found the puckered opening and he smoothed the lube over the tight skin. He felt Nick sigh against his mouth, but he didn’t pull away from the kiss. Greg flicked his fingers, pressing in gently. He felt Nick’s muscles tighten a bit, then relax as he continued. Greg moved slowly, brushing the area, carefully pressing with the tip of one finger. He felt Nick bear down slightly, deliberately relaxing the muscles in the area and he was surprised.

Nick’s senses were reeling. He slid his tongue over Greg’s kissing him deeply. He tried to calm the beating of his heart, but he was too excited. Greg’s fingers on him felt so _good_. Better than they’d felt in the shower that afternoon, better than in the tub. Suddenly, he wanted them inside him. He wanted to feel Greg sliding in -

Nick broke the kiss and opened his eyes. He looked at Greg. Greg paused, studying his face, holding his hand still. “Nick, are you all right? Do you want me to stop?”

Nick shook his head as he shifted his hand to cup Greg’s cheek. “No, I want you to do more. I want...I want your fingers in me.”

Greg moaned and turned his head, kissing Nick’s palm. “Are you sure?”

Nick nodded. “I’ve never been more sure.”

Greg moaned again and lowered his mouth to Nick’s once more. Nick’s hand slid around his head, Nick’s fingers buried in his hair as the kiss deepened.

Greg moved his fingers again, sliding over Nick before he stopped over the muscle. He felt Nick bear down again slightly and he took advantage of the movement, pushing the tip of his finger into Nick.

Nick gasped and broke off the kiss, staring into Greg’s eyes. He looked wide eyed into Greg’s, but he didn’t move his hand from the back of Greg’s neck. Greg licked his lips and whispered, “Are you sure this is ok?”

Nick swallowed and nodded. He took a deep breath then grinned. “It’s better than ok; it’s fantastic.”

Greg kissed him lightly then pulled back with a smile. “Good.” He moved again, pushing into Nick up to his second knuckle. He hooked his finger slightly and rubbed against the inside of the tight passage. Nick’s eyes grew wide and he cried out. “Oh, God!”

Greg kissed him gently again. “Good?”

Nick nodded quickly. “Oh, yeah. Do that again.”

Greg smiled and moved his finger again. Nick moaned and pushed himself against Greg’s fingers. “Hmm, try more.”

Greg complied, pushing carefully until his whole finger was inside Nick. He moved carefully, rubbing against Nick gently. Not sure if he should go further, but figuring Nick could always say ‘no’, Greg asked, “Ready for more?” When Nick nodded, he pulled his finger out, then carefully worked two into Nick. When he had two fingers in completely, he started moving, thrusting slowly in and out.

Nick was moaning as Greg continued thrusting slowly, letting Nick get used to the feel of him. After a few moments, Greg leaned down, and right next to Nick’s ear whispered, “Is that good?”

Nick gasped and met Greg’s eyes. “This is....awsome. I had no idea it could be this good.” He moaned again and leaned his head back as Greg sped up his thrusting, crooking his fingers and hitting a particularly good spot.

All thought flew from Nick’s mind as he concentrated on the incredible sensation of Greg’s fingers slowly sliding in and out of him. He felt Greg shift slightly, getting more comfortable on the bed. He knew it wasn’t deliberate, but when he felt Greg’s cock thrust against his leg, a jolt passed through him. Suddenly, he wanted Greg inside him, wanted to be filled with the hard cock that was pressed to his thigh.

He opened his eyes, raising his head to once more look Greg in the eye. “Greg, I want more.”

Greg’s eyes grew wider as he looked at Nick. “Are you asking....”

Nick nodded. “Please, I want your cock in me. I’ve never wanted anything more than I want that right now.”

Greg studied his face for a moment, making absolutely sure he was ready. He saw desire, need, a hunger he’d never seen on Nick’s face before. “Ok, if you’re sure.”

Nick moaned slightly as he nodded. “Yes....if it feels even half as good as this....”

Greg kissed him again and replied. “It feels better.”

He slipped his fingers from Nick then moved to kneel between his legs. Nick started to flip over, but Greg shook his head. “No, stay like this. It’ll work this way.”

Nick nodded and settled back down on his back. Greg squeezed more lube from the bottle onto his hands. He quickly spread some over his own cock, moaning at the first deliberate contact since Nick had sucked him what now seemed like hours ago. Nick stared at him, a jolt of desire coursing through him as he watched Greg’s hand sliding over himself.

Greg reluctantly stopped after a few strokes then rubbed lube over Nick. Greg loosely grabbed his own cock and rubbed the head over Nick’s tight opening. Nick sucked in a breath and reached out a hand to Greg’s arm. Greg looked up, but Nick just stroked his biceps and nodded. He nodded back and pushed against the taut muscle. “I’ll go slow. Remember, you’re in charge. You tell me when to stop and when to continue.”

Nick nodded again and Greg leaned forward, pushing himself slightly into Nick. Nick took a deep breath and Greg paused, holding still for a moment before again pushing in. After every slight thrust, he paused, giving Nick time to adjust, till after a couple of moments the tip of his cock was inside Nick.

Nick smiled at him, and Greg moved a bit, pressing the tip of his cock upwards. Nick gasped, sucking in air. Greg took that as a sign to go on and he pushed a little more. Greg continued, pausing briefly to let Nick get used to the sensation before moving more. Once, he added a bit more lube, wanting to make this as smooth as possible.

After a few minutes, Greg looked up and met Nick’s eyes. “One more push and I’m all the way in.”

Nick moaned quietly and nodded. “Do it.”

Greg took a deep breath and, in one smooth motion, pushed the rest of the way into Nick. He paused for a moment, letting Nick again get used to the feeling, enjoying being so completely inside him.

A moment later, Nick moaned and grasped Greg’s forearms. “Greg...” his voice trailed off as if he didn’t know how to finish. Greg guessed what he wanted and started to move. When Nick gasped he figured he’d guessed right.

Greg moved slowly, drawing out of Nick a little bit at a time and then pushing back in, loving the slick, tight feeling of Nick around him. He breathed deeply, trying not to lose control. Nick moved with him, meeting his careful thrusting. He sped up slightly, hoping that Nick would ask for more.

When Nick made no noise beyond low moaning, Greg leaned over and whispered to him. “Nick, is this ok, or do you want more?”

Nick looked up at him, his eyes wide. He moaned and nodded his head. “Yes, this is wonderful.”

Greg smiled gently, realizing Nick hadn’t heard the end of his question. “Nick, do you want more?” He moved slightly, pressing into Nick at a different angle.

Nick moaned again and moved his hips. “Greg, more....” Greg nodded and moved faster. He drew himself in and out of Nick, going deeper with each thrust. Nick raised his hips to meet him and Greg moaned loudly.

Greg moved one hand from Nick’s hip and grasped Nick’s hard cock. He carefully wrapped his hand around Nick and stroked up and down in rhythm with his cock in Nick’s ass. Nick moaned and threw back his head.

Greg closed his eyes and concentrated on the feeling of Nick around him. He loved the tightness of Nick’s ass and the feel of Nick’s cock in his hand. He was startled when he felt a hand close over his. He opened his eyes and met Nick’s as Nick squeezed his fingers tighter. He grinned and tightened his hold. Nick nodded and pushed against him.

Nick sucked in a breath as Greg again sped up, then let it out in a whoosh as Greg shifted position and hit a sensitive spot. “Greg, God, that feels good.”

Greg felt himself getting close, and he wanted to thrust even harder, but he wanted Nick to be ready for it. “Nick, you feel so good. Can I....” he trailed off, not really knowing how to ask Nick for what he wanted.

Nick must have sensed what he needed cause he replied. “Don’t hold back, Greg.”

Greg nodded, then took a deep breath and plunged into him. Nick gasped and cried out. “Yes! Greg, fuck me!”

When he heard that, Greg couldn’t hold back any longer - he lost control. Closing his eyes, he grabbed onto Nick and thrust, hard and fast, feeling himself approaching the edge.

He felt Nick’s hand close around his, felt Nick keeping the rhythm of his fist, felt Nick bucking his hips up to meet every thrust in. Somewhere in the background he was aware of Nick moaning, occasionally encouraging him to fuck harder.

Greg’s breath came faster and faster; he felt his heartbeat speed up as he felt himself stiffen slightly. He knew he was on the edge. He took one deep breath and thrust all the way into Nick again, feeling himself completely surrounded by Nick’s tight warmth, before going over the edge. All sensation centered on his cock inside Nick as he cried out and came hard, waves of pleasure washing over him.

Greg shuddered once more, opened his eyes, and looked down at Nick. He was breathing heavily, his head thrown back, his hand still locked around Greg’s fist on his cock. Greg loved how Nick looked, right on the edge and ready to go over. Greg thrust hard, once, twice, then three times before Nick grew still, all his muscles tensing, and went over the edge. Greg felt the splash of warm liquid on his fist as the contractions rippled along Nick’s cock and Nick cried out.

After a moment more, Nick relaxed and Greg slowly slid out of him, collapsing next to him on the bed. Greg turned his head toward Nick and Nick leaned over and kissed him lightly on the lips before pulling back. Nick smiled. “That was fabulous. We’ve _got_ to do that more often.”

Greg smiled back. “Oh, yeah. As soon as I recover from this time.” Nick laughed softly and pulled Greg’s head to his shoulder. Greg sighed and relaxed in Nick’s arms, completely satisfied.

The End

***

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