![\"chapter](\"https:\/\/lh5.googleusercontent.com\/-bw3DoeoZHbk\/Uy7oecil6dI\/AAAAAAAADYQ\/Y37KYEb9Jx4\/s800\/vacation5.jpg\")
<\/p>\n<\/p>\n
When Zach woke, he was lying on his back, his hands folded over his stomach. This \u00e2\u20ac\u0153vampire\u00e2\u20ac\u009d position, as Chris called it, was a left-over from Trek when he\u00e2\u20ac\u2122d had to nap like that or risk the wrath of makeup for messing up his hair or ears. Nowadays it was a sign that he had a lot on his mind.<\/p>\n
Just like Chris, who seemed to mistake Zach for a teddy bear, considering the way he was clinging to Zach right now … as if he\u00e2\u20ac\u2122d disappear the moment Chris let go of him. Suddenly Chris jerked awake and clutched at Zach even more tightly. Zach could feel how Chris\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s heart pounded in a panic.<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153Bad dream?\u00e2\u20ac\u009d he asked unnecessarily. Chris mumbled something incomprehensible against his arm but didn\u00e2\u20ac\u2122t move. Zach turned onto his side and pulled Chris against his body.<\/p>\n
He wasn\u00e2\u20ac\u2122t surprised at how Chris tended to express his feelings physically, awake or asleep. Chris might be careful with strangers, hesitating into hugs like a cautious kitten sometimes. In the personal space of friends, Chris had always behaved more like a puppy, exuberant and silly to the point that Zach wanted to put a leash on him. Words always turned into gestures with Chris, and ever since they had become lovers, his gestures overflowed into touches. But based on what Zach knew about Chris\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s behavior toward his girlfriends over the years, he\u00e2\u20ac\u2122d expected Chris to be different in intimate interactions. More demanding, less giving. Less ready to show the intensity of his needs, his vulnerability. And Chris yielding to him the way he did was incredibly arousing.<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153Can you\u00e2\u20ac\u201d\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Chris started, then grimaced. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153No. Forget it; morning breath. Sorry.\u00e2\u20ac\u009d<\/p>\n
Zach nudged Chris\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s chin up. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153I think I\u00e2\u20ac\u2122ll survive.\u00e2\u20ac\u009d He kissed Chris. The comfort of warm lips was more important than the stale breath of bad dreams. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153Tell me.\u00e2\u20ac\u009d<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153It\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s stupid.\u00e2\u20ac\u009d<\/p>\n
Zach brushed a few recalcitrant strands of hair away from Chris\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s forehead, so he could see his eyes. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153Fears and dreams aren\u00e2\u20ac\u2122t stupid.\u00e2\u20ac\u009d<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153It\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s embarrassing.\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Chris buried his face against Zach\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s shoulder.<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153Tell me anyway.\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Zach allowed Chris to hide, but he hooked a leg around Chris\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s thigh and slid his left arm around his back, cuddling him even closer.<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153IdreamedthatParamounttoldmeIamnotgayenoughandIhavetobewithAlicebecausethescriptsaysso.\u00e2\u20ac\u009d<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153What was that?\u00e2\u20ac\u009d<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153I … I dreamed we\u00e2\u20ac\u2122d planned \u00e2\u20ac\u201c there\u00e2\u20ac\u2122d be a press thing. With Paramount. Because of Trek, I guess. And …\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Chris took a deep breath that only increased the tension in his body. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153When I wanted to go out there and get it over with, they … they wouldn\u00e2\u20ac\u2122t let me. They told me you were gone and that I …\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Chris groaned into his shoulder and couldn\u00e2\u20ac\u2122t bring himself to finish the sentence.<\/p>\n
Zach bit on his lips, hard. It wasn\u00e2\u20ac\u2122t funny; not really. It was a fear founded not just in Chris\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s psyche but in reality. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153I promise Paramount has no script for our lives.\u00e2\u20ac\u009d<\/p>\n
Chris raised his head. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153Are you sure?\u00e2\u20ac\u009d<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153Well.\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Zach pursed his lips. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153They might have one. Wouldn\u00e2\u20ac\u2122t put it past them. But we never signed that contract. We\u00e2\u20ac\u2122ll be fine.\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Chris snorted but relaxed a little. Zach used the opportunity to press another comforting kiss on his lips, morning breath be damned. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153Also, contrary to any rumors you might have heard, there\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s no entrance exam for membership in the queer community.\u00e2\u20ac\u009d He nuzzled Chris\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s neck and sucked at his earlobe. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153Furthermore, I happen to be a certified member in good standing, and I am willing and able to aver, avow, and affirm that you\u00e2\u20ac\u2122ve aced the practicals.\u00e2\u20ac\u009d<\/p>\n
They ended up eating breakfast in bed, fruit salad and pancakes. Chris was in a much better mood, though quieter than usual. Still preoccupied, Zach guessed. Perhaps not thinking about the dream, but about … things.<\/p>\n
Eventually, Chris put \u00e2\u20ac\u0153The Hobbit\u00e2\u20ac\u009d onto the nightstand. He was halfway through the book by now. How he\u00e2\u20ac\u2122d managed to sneak so much reading into the last few days was a complete mystery to Zach, because they hadn\u00e2\u20ac\u2122t been inactive in any way of the meaning. Now Chris pushed his thick, black-rimmed glasses higher up on his nose as he gazed meditatively at the pointillist patterns the rain was painting on the French doors. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153Guess that means we\u00e2\u20ac\u2122ll have to stay holed up today.\u00e2\u20ac\u009d The tip of his tongue peeked out between his lips while he pondered their options. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153We could stay in bed all day,\u00e2\u20ac\u009d he suggested. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153Or … have a nudist day \u00e2\u20ac\u201c just never get dressed. A spa day? We could try out the sauna, and the pool. And the Jacuzzi.\u00e2\u20ac\u009d<\/p>\n
Zach could see exactly how another idea took shape in Chris\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s mind. It started as a spark in his eyes and turned into a bright grin, which in turn crinkled his eyes with mischief even as he raised his hands, fingers aflutter. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153And whoever had more orgasms at the end of the day buys dinner tomorrow.\u00e2\u20ac\u009d<\/p>\n
Before Zach could come up with a plausible way to refuse (though really, why would he?), he was already signing an absolutely ridiculous contract (with half a dozen absolutely unnecessary additional clauses that could easily double as a kink list) in Chris\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s Hobbit notebook. By the time the sauna had heated up to 176\u00c2\u00b0F, Chris was an orgasm ahead.<\/p>\n
They turned the sandglass, and Chris bravely stretched out on the topmost bench. He sighed with contentment. Zach, relegated to the middle bench, needed a minute longer to get comfortable. Then he sighed as well. The sauna sported a tinted round window so they could still admire the pool … or listen to the rain. The sound of the rain combined with the humid heat created a blissfully relaxing atmosphere. Within moments Zach was dozing and ready for a nap.<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153So, sauna,\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Chris started. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153It\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s a cultural thing, right?\u00e2\u20ac\u009d<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153I swear, if you start quoting lines from \u00e2\u20ac\u02dcSo NoTORIous\u00e2\u20ac\u2122<\/em> <\/em>at me now, you will regret it.\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Zach inhaled, carefully breathing in through the nose and out through the mouth.<\/em><\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u00e2\u20ac\u0153Wasn\u00e2\u20ac\u2122t going to,\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Chris muttered. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153But it is, isn\u00e2\u20ac\u2122t it?\u00e2\u20ac\u009d<\/em><\/p>\n \u00e2\u20ac\u0153Yes,\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Zach replied. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153Let me tell you about the long and fascinating history of sauna, about the Mayan temazcal<\/i>, about Roman baths, and most of all about the Finnish sauna culture. They even have one in their parliament building, by the way. And what they get up to with those birch boughs, man, you\u00e2\u20ac\u2122d love that.\u00e2\u20ac\u009d<\/p>\n \u00e2\u20ac\u0153I might, at that,\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Chris said, quite seriously, startling Zach upright.<\/p>\n Gripping the sides of the bench tightly, Zach frowned at Chris. But his lover barely opened his eyes, basking in the heat. Zach sighed. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153You\u00e2\u20ac\u2122re right, though. Sauna is<\/i> gay culture.\u00e2\u20ac\u009d<\/p>\n \u00e2\u20ac\u0153So what\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s that like?\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Chris asked, rubbing the sweat on his tummy in a soothing circle with his palm.<\/p>\n \u00e2\u20ac\u0153Just because I happen to be gay I\u00e2\u20ac\u2122m not an expert on all aspects of gay culture, Chris.\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Zach should lie back down again and play it cool (or as cool as was possible in the current ambient temperature). But suddenly he didn\u00e2\u20ac\u2122t want to stop looking at Chris. So he turned around, twisted himself into the lotus position, and sat facing Chris. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153But yeah, sauna\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s nice.\u00e2\u20ac\u009d He propped his elbows on the bench next to Chris\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s side and pondered possible explanations. At last he ended up simplifying things somewhat because he really wasn\u00e2\u20ac\u2122t in the mood to discuss the finer points of body posture as an invitation to engage in specific sexual activities. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153Think of it as a club,\u00e2\u20ac\u009d he said. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153With fewer clothes, and more condoms.\u00e2\u20ac\u009d<\/p>\n \u00e2\u20ac\u0153That does sound nice.\u00e2\u20ac\u009d<\/p>\n Zach interrupted more infuriating tummy rubbing with a kiss on Chris\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s belly button, twirling his tongue around it, tasting sweat and feverish heat. Nice. Very nice indeed.<\/i><\/p>\n \u00e2\u20ac\u0153Actually, gay sauna culture is supposedly in decline,\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Zach said. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153Though I wouldn\u00e2\u20ac\u2122t know; I haven\u00e2\u20ac\u2122t been in ages. Downside of fame et cetera et cetera. Cry me a river. But Germany is really interesting that way \u00e2\u20ac\u201c in terms of sauna culture, I mean. Did you know that in their regular saunas they do the naked co-ed thing over there?\u00e2\u20ac\u009d<\/p>\n That made Chris open his eyes. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153Really?\u00e2\u20ac\u009d<\/p>\n Zach nodded. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153No wimpy towels and bathing trunks over there.\u00e2\u20ac\u009d He couldn\u00e2\u20ac\u2122t resist Chris\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s slick body. Stroking his torso, Zach began to draw lines and circles into the clean sweat beading on Chris\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s skin in myriad infinitesimal droplets. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153We could go when you come to visit me in May.\u00e2\u20ac\u009d<\/p>\n Now Chris sat up, too. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153You think it\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s a good idea for us to show our junk to random strangers who might or might not have a phone camera handy?\u00e2\u20ac\u009d<\/p>\n Zach rolled his eyes. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153Where are they gonna get a phone from in a sauna? Pull it out of their asses?\u00e2\u20ac\u009d<\/p>\n \u00e2\u20ac\u0153But you still need to shower and\u00e2\u20ac\u201d\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Chris shook his head \u00e2\u20ac\u0153\u00e2\u20ac\u201dthey might.\u00e2\u20ac\u009d<\/p>\n Granted, they might. Chris was paranoid for good reason. Also, the timing for a mishap like that would be less than ideal to put it mildly. But still … Berlin.<\/i> The city of Love Parades still had so much more to offer than merely vibrant mainstream culture. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153Europe\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s most infamous gay sauna club happens to be located in Berlin,\u00e2\u20ac\u009d he said, as casually as he could. And although that really shouldn\u00e2\u20ac\u2122t be possible at 176\u00c2\u00b0F, his cock stirred. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153It has a darkroom labyrinth attached to it.\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Chris\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s eyes widened, obviously imagining the details. Zach shivered in spite of the heat. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153We need something to look forward to,\u00e2\u20ac\u009d he whispered. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153Something good and crazy.\u00e2\u20ac\u009d<\/p>\n \u00e2\u20ac\u0153That does sound … tempting.\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Chris licked his lips. But then he inhaled, a hasty, shaky breath and promptly coughed due to the heat of the air. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153Crazy, though? I can guarantee that we\u00e2\u20ac\u2122ll get that no matter what. And I have no idea how we\u00e2\u20ac\u2122re going to do it. I mean, you handled it with so much aplomb. Two precise phrases \u00e2\u20ac\u201c WHAM! BANG! \u00e2\u20ac\u201c just dropped ever so badass casually into the conversation. Only, that won\u00e2\u20ac\u2122t work for me. For us.\u00e2\u20ac\u009d He glanced at the sandglass. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153Time\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s up.\u00e2\u20ac\u009d<\/p>\n \u00e2\u20ac\u0153No,\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Zach said, even as he extended his hands and drew Chris to his feet. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153You take as much time as you need.\u00e2\u20ac\u009d<\/p>\n Outside, in the cool air of the bathroom, they leaned against the wall of the sauna next to each other. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153Thanks for saying that,\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Chris panted. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153But let\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s face it. We have to let people know before<\/i> I come to Berlin. I have to tell my family. Who have no idea, by the way. We have to talk to publicists and yeah, I guess, to Paramount, too. And for you, it was a deliberate statement when the time was right. When you did it, how you did it, you set an example. You inspired people. I\u00e2\u20ac\u2122m doing it because playing tag with the paparazzi won\u00e2\u20ac\u2122t work. I\u00e2\u20ac\u2122m just doing it because sooner or later people will figure out that we\u00e2\u20ac\u2122re fucking. Because subtlety isn\u00e2\u20ac\u2122t my strong suit. And because\u00e2\u20ac\u201d\u00e2\u20ac\u009d<\/p>\n Abruptly, Chris turned away and stepped under the ledge of the artificial waterfall, turning the knob with a vicious twist. Zach followed him, and couldn\u00e2\u20ac\u2122t keep himself from dancing from one foot to the other while his cock turtled in the icy deluge. Zach gasped for breath, as his brain went from \u00e2\u20ac\u0153What the hell am I supposed to say?\u00e2\u20ac\u009d to \u00e2\u20ac\u0153Oh my god, cold! This is cold<\/i>. Cold, cold, cold. Much too damn<\/i> COLD!\u00e2\u20ac\u009d in the fraction of a second.<\/p>\n Zach caught up with Chris outside on the terrace. It was still raining, but after the subzero shower the rain felt almost warm on his skin. He stopped Chris at the edge of the pool. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153Wait a second, will you?\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Zach stared at Chris, tense, naked and wet, eyes stormy, mouth set and unsmiling. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153You\u00e2\u20ac\u2122re wrong if you believe that your story, our story, doesn\u00e2\u20ac\u2122t matter. It\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s important to show that it\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s okay to fall in love no matter when or with whom.\u00e2\u20ac\u009d When Chris relaxed a little, Zach promptly pulled him into his arms. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153Also, you don\u00e2\u20ac\u2122t fool me for second. I know you\u00e2\u20ac\u2122re doing this for me, too. Because we could<\/i> drag out that terrible bromance angle for a while yet, even with you draped all over me in public.\u00e2\u20ac\u009d<\/p>\n Chris leaned against him with a heartfelt sigh. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153You said … in Out, I think? I\u00e2\u20ac\u2122m not sure; it was a while ago. But I do remember what you said \u00e2\u20ac\u201c that no good can come from staying quiet. I\u00e2\u20ac\u2122d be an asshole to take that away from you.\u00e2\u20ac\u009d<\/p>\n \u00e2\u20ac\u0153You\u00e2\u20ac\u2122re not an asshole,\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Zach said. But given the cue, he couldn\u00e2\u20ac\u2122t resist. He cupped Chris\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s ass in appreciation, fingers sliding between his cheeks, teasing. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153In fact,\u00e2\u20ac\u009d he went on, serious again, \u00e2\u20ac\u0153you\u00e2\u20ac\u2122re quite terrifyingly brave.\u00e2\u20ac\u009d He moved his hands upward again to hug Chris around the small of his back. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153We\u00e2\u20ac\u2122ve spent seven years<\/i> inching toward each other, toward this. And now you\u00e2\u20ac\u2122re rushing through issues that some people need a lifetime of therapy to sort out in a matter of weeks.\u00e2\u20ac\u009d He pulled back so he could see Chris\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s face. He needed Chris to really listen now. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153Nevertheless, I do believe it will be better for us, for our relationship, if we do this sooner rather than later.\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Considering that he\u00e2\u20ac\u2122d never actually gone public with Miles that was a huge step for Zach, and he could see in Chris\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s serious expression that he was aware of that, too. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153It\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s definitely better to get it out of the way long before the next Trek. Though I guarantee that Paramount will disagree \u00e2\u20ac\u201c once they\u00e2\u20ac\u2122ve realized what we\u00e2\u20ac\u2122re handing them on a silver platter in terms of PR. But Chris? We\u00e2\u20ac\u2122ve talked about this before, and I really mean it. It\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s okay if you\u00e2\u20ac\u2122re scared. And if you need to freak out. And really, it\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s not as if I\u00e2\u20ac\u2122m not nervous, too. So just … talk to me, all right?\u00e2\u20ac\u009d<\/p>\n \u00e2\u20ac\u0153Okay.\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Chris nodded. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153I can do that.\u00e2\u20ac\u009d He took a deep breath and a step back. Zach let him go. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153Pool now?\u00e2\u20ac\u009d<\/p>\n When they climbed in, they gasped at the cool water on their still sauna-hot skin. But soon they were striking out vigorously, cooling down and staying warm at the same time, and making the most of the pool. The fairly large basin was rectangular and styled like a natural lake, with sections with aquatic plants partitioned off to act as natural water filters. Swimming, the regular rhythm of moving and breathing helped Zach to regain his equilibrium, and to think things through. What to do next. What not to do. What he didn\u00e2\u20ac\u2122t want Chris to do alone, what he didn\u00e2\u20ac\u2122t want him to be alone with. How Berlin might happen.<\/p>\n Half an hour later they drifted together in one of the secluded niches between segments planted with reeds and water lilies. Zach swam up behind Chris and wrapped himself around his body. Swimming must have helped him, too; he felt much more relaxed.<\/p>\n \u00e2\u20ac\u0153I\u00e2\u20ac\u2122ve been thinking,\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Zach announced. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153And I want us to send some emails and make some phone calls next week already. While we\u00e2\u20ac\u2122re here, together.\u00e2\u20ac\u009d He let go of Chris\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s back so he could move around him and in front of him. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153So we\u00e2\u20ac\u2122re ready. Or as ready as we\u00e2\u20ac\u2122ll ever be.\u00e2\u20ac\u009d He smiled wryly. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153And when some reporter or pap catches us together in Berlin, our people will have something prepared. Getting caught holding hands may not be as elegant as a casual statement in the New York<\/i> magazine, but it\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s normal<\/i>. Normal for us, at least. And that\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s what you, what we both deserve.\u00e2\u20ac\u009d<\/p>\n \u00e2\u20ac\u0153Okay.\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Chris took a deep breath but stayed calm. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153We could …\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Another deep breath. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153We could start with inviting Karl for dinner. He sent me an email that he\u00e2\u20ac\u2122ll be in Christchurch for a few days next week for that charity he\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s involved in.\u00e2\u20ac\u009d He quirked his lips in a faint, lop-sided smile. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153He\u00e2\u20ac\u2122ll give me so much shit about this …\u00e2\u20ac\u009d<\/p>\n \u00e2\u20ac\u0153And<\/i> he\u00e2\u20ac\u2122ll have our backs every step of the way,\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Zach said. Family was important to Karl; and he\u00e2\u20ac\u2122d made it clear that he considered the Trek cast family of sorts. Maybe not on a \u00e2\u20ac\u0153Lord of the Rings\u00e2\u20ac\u009d level, but definitely more than colleagues and acquaintances.<\/p>\n \u00e2\u20ac\u0153Kick our asses, you mean.\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Now Chris laughed, a little at least. He put his hands on Zach\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s shoulders and let his body float upwards in the water. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153Sometimes I still have trouble believing you didn\u00e2\u20ac\u2122t kick me out on my ass that very first night.\u00e2\u20ac\u009d<\/p>\n Zach thought that this version of Chris might be his favorite yet: wet and vulnerable, spiky hair slicked back, raindrops glittering on his face in a sudden ray of sunshine, his eyes wide and earnest, grey-blue mirrors of the storm clouds up in the sky.<\/p>\n \u00e2\u20ac\u0153You wanted me so much,\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Zach said and covered Chris\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s hands with his. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153Needed me so much.\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Slowly, Zach stroked Chris\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s arms, lingering in appreciation on his pronounced biceps and triceps. Then he gripped Chris\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s shoulders and pulled him close, close enough to slide his hands up and down his sides and his back. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153You were intense. Irresistible.\u00e2\u20ac\u009d<\/p>\n Zach fell silent. But it was still raining, and the silence was filled with soft, reassuring sounds. As if the weather itself wanted to put them at ease. Underwater, he slipped his right hand between Chris\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s ass cheeks and nudged his hole. Just enough to get his attention. Chris tilted back his head, and Zach pushed first one, then two fingers in, added pressure. Chris\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s eyes drifted shut as he submitted to Zach\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s touch, and his lips opened in a desirous ohh… <\/i>Around them, the rain created a calligraphy of concentric circles on the surface of the water. Beads of water weighed down Chris\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s eyelashes. When a droplet trailed down Chris\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s cheek, Zach felt compelled to lick it away. As if it was a tear and not merely a drop of rain. Buoyed by the water, his lover swayed against him and sighed.<\/p>\n \u00e2\u20ac\u0153Pluvial porn,\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Chris murmured and opened his eyes again, sapphire-bright. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153Perfection in precipitation.\u00e2\u20ac\u009d He grinned at Zach, all mischief now. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153Provided you presently pound into me and elicit a climax from me right here in the pool.\u00e2\u20ac\u009d<\/p>\n \u00e2\u20ac\u0153No more alliterations for you, Christopher,\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Zach decided. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153Definitely not in public.\u00e2\u20ac\u009d He pushed Chris backwards until they reached the edge of the pool. Instead of resisting, Chris wrapped his legs around Zach\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s thighs, trapping their cocks between their bodies.<\/p>\n \u00e2\u20ac\u0153But we are not in public now, Zachary<\/i>,\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Chris replied. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153And methinks the man maligns my methods too much. Because I perceive precisely<\/i> how much you appreciate the persuasiveness of my stylistic devices.\u00e2\u20ac\u009d With a smirk, he leaned against Zach\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s right shoulder and reached around Zach\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s back and for his ass.<\/p>\n Chris\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s finger was warm, warmer than the water, and insistent. Although Zach was tighter than Chris at this point, it didn\u00e2\u20ac\u2122t take long until Chris had worked his finger far enough inside. A quirk, and a sizzling rush of sensation surged through Zach\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s body. Without the water to support them, this episode of pluvial porn would have found a very painful end then and there, as Zach stumbled and almost fell. Chris just laughed, holding on for dear life and not letting up<\/i>.<\/p>\n \u00e2\u20ac\u0153Damn it, Chris, do you want<\/i> to drown us?\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Zach cursed. Somehow he managed to maneuver them into a corner for additional support. Drowning in the pool of a Hobbit hole while fucking might get them shortlisted for the Darwin Awards 2014, but that was most certainly not on his top ten list of how to go.<\/p>\n Somehow Chris managed to squeeze his other hand between their bodies. He gripped their dicks, pressing them together, rubbing them, hot and hard in the cool water. Zach instinctively tightened his own hold on Chris again, his hand sliding between Chris\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s buttocks once more. When Chris rested his forehead against Zach\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s shoulder and began to suck and bite kisses into his skin, Zach gasped. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153What are you? A fucking octopus?\u00e2\u20ac\u009d<\/p>\n For a moment, Chris looked up and smiled beatifically, his eyes electrified and almost turquoise with lust. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153Your<\/i> fucking octopus.\u00e2\u20ac\u009d<\/p>\n Zach\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s ability to form coherent syllables dissolved in the waves Chris created between their bodies as he jerked their cocks with more urgency. Chris panted against his neck, such a passionate sound. Once more it struck Zach just how much Chris wanted him. But before he could process the thought, the familiar pressure of impending orgasm tightened his balls. A moment later, Chris stroked his prostate, with an unrefined but evilly effective twitch of his fingers. Zach exploded in a release that left him floating, weightless in the water. Distantly, Zach felt Chris shudder against him as he reached his climax as well. For a while they just drifted in each other\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s arms, limp and \u00e2\u20ac\u201c yeah, in love<\/i>. Once again, Zach\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s heart thudded awkwardly at the thought. He opened his eyes, blinking away raindrops.<\/p>\n \u00e2\u20ac\u0153See? I wouldn\u00e2\u20ac\u2122t let you drown,\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Chris said, kissed him, and shivered convulsively.<\/p>\n That was Zach\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s cue to move the party to the Jacuzzi. After all, he had a bet to win, and Chris was still an orgasm ahead.<\/p>\n \u00e2\u2122\u00a6<\/p>\n \u00e2\u20ac\u0153We\u00e2\u20ac\u2122re going to turn into prunes,\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Chris announced happily.<\/p>\n His ability to think and speak had needed some serious time-out in terms of silently soaking in the hot tub for the better part of an hour. But now he was obviously recovering from their exertions in the pool. Maybe the stimulating effect of the bath salts was finally kicking in. They\u00e2\u20ac\u2122d had a choice of a whole range of special Middle-earth themed mixtures. Chris had wanted \u00e2\u20ac\u0153\u00c3\u2030omer\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s Excellent Soak\u00e2\u20ac\u009d, presumably to honor his man-crush on Karl, but Zach had vetoed that. And he\u00e2\u20ac\u2122d enjoyed that moment of playful jealousy probably more than he ought to \u00e2\u20ac\u201c especially when Chris had solemnly sworn to crush only on him from here on out, a vow that had included Chris kneeling down in front of him and actually kissing his balls for some reason. Now they were marinating in \u00e2\u20ac\u0153Green Dragon\u00e2\u20ac\u009d, a rich, tavern-themed scent. The whirlpool was more than big enough for two, so they could have comfortably stretched out in opposite corners of the tub. But apparently Chris was still channeling his inner octopus. Zach had ended up with a lapful of snuggly Chris. He didn\u00e2\u20ac\u2122t mind.<\/p>\n \u00e2\u20ac\u0153Very clean prunes,\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Zach agreed. By rights he should be beyond temptation by now, but the thought of just how <\/i>clean they\u00e2\u20ac\u2122d both be when they finally made it out of the hot, bubbling water was way too appealing. His cock stirred.<\/p>\n Chris turned and tilted his head to offer him a sly smile. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153Clean prunes? Is that something you\u00e2\u20ac\u2122re into, Zach? A kink, maybe?\u00e2\u20ac\u009d<\/p>\n Zach swatted gently at him. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153Crazy boy. But if you must know, yes, I am not averse to the pleasures of anilingus.\u00e2\u20ac\u009d<\/p>\n \u00e2\u20ac\u0153Is that so?\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Chris shimmied in his arms, teasing, taunting. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153Because in that case I\u00e2\u20ac\u2122ll have to let you in on a secret …\u00e2\u20ac\u009d He lowered his voice seductively. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153… neither am I.\u00e2\u20ac\u009d<\/p>\n \u00e2\u20ac\u0153Oh, the things I learn about you here.\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Zach smiled against Chris\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s neck. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153I already had my suspicions that your proclivities include sexual gratification with stylistic devices. But I have to say, for a mostly straight boy you\u00e2\u20ac\u2122re very anally inclined …\u00e2\u20ac\u009d<\/p>\n \u00e2\u20ac\u0153Oh, the arrogance.\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Chris splashed some water back at Zach and mostly at the wall. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153The ass is an erogenous zone for many people, regardless of their gender identity or sexual orientation.\u00e2\u20ac\u009d<\/p>\n When Zach submerged his hand to slide a finger up and down his crack, Chris squirmed against his hand. Onomatopoeias of pleasure spilled from his lips, guh<\/i> and unf<\/i> and a helpless hmmm…<\/i><\/p>\n \u00e2\u20ac\u0153It\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s definitely one of your sweet spots,\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Zach murmured. He pulled his hand away from Chris\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s ass and curled his arm around his waist, stroking his stomach. Chris was hard again, too. That\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s some spa day today<\/i>, Zach thought. Aloud he said, \u00e2\u20ac\u0153And yet \u00e2\u20ac\u201c although you have indeed satisfactorily demonstrated your ability to locate not only your own but my prostate without Google maps \u00e2\u20ac\u201c you haven\u00e2\u20ac\u2122t done much about it in the past. Why is that, I wonder?\u00e2\u20ac\u009d<\/p>\n \u00e2\u20ac\u0153Dunno.\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Chris leaned back against him and pressed Zach\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s hand more firmly against his body. Zach had noticed that already about him, how Chris liked being held, tightly, how he even enjoyed being pinned down. When Chris inhaled, Zach could feel how he tensed up. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153Okay, no. I do know why. For me, there\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s a level of openness, of trust, involved in those acts … that I\u00e2\u20ac\u2122ve simply not experienced very often. With anyone.\u00e2\u20ac\u009d<\/p>\n For a second, Zach wanted to react the way he had their very first night together. He wanted to tell Chris off, wanted to snap at Chris that he didn\u00e2\u20ac\u2122t have the right to say things like that, never mind the fact that Chris had every right<\/i> to say that by now, and more. Just Zach\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s typical knee-jerk reaction. That part of him that still wanted nothing to do with the responsibility and the risks that came with such trust. (And besides, those acts \u00e2\u20ac\u201c they were as natural and normal as any other sexual acts. There should be no more and no less trust involved than in any other form of sexual intimacy.)<\/p>\n But Chris<\/i>. Zach was perfectly aware of at least one time that Chris had this trust broken before. (Never mind which sexts had been nothing but erotic fantasy and which had been edits by the hackers \u00e2\u20ac\u201c it had been a hot mess, and of course<\/i> it hadn\u00e2\u20ac\u2122t left Chris unaffected.) Also, Zach would have to be an idiot and<\/i> an asshole to ignore how, in terms of trust, there was much more at stake for Chris than how he felt about anal sex right now. And Zach was neither. Or at least he liked to think that.<\/p>\n Though …<\/i> Maybe he was at least ignorant. Sure, for him as a gay man who enjoyed anal sex, all of this was normal and no big deal. But Chris was not<\/i> gay. He was bisexual<\/i>. And he\u00e2\u20ac\u2122d lived a mostly straight life so far. Gay sex, anal sex, all of that was still new for Chris. No matter how much he enjoyed it all. Also, if Zach was perfectly honest, maybe he himself had more reasons for topping normally than the fact that he simply preferred that particular physical experience.<\/p>\n And Zach\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s instinctive aversion to too much emotional dependency had definitely more to do with his personal history, with his experience of loss and dysfunctional relationships than anything else. Chris had been such a safe object of desire. One hundred percent unavailable. Someone he couldn\u00e2\u20ac\u2122t lose because he could never have<\/i> him in the first place. But now Chris was proving himself to be more open and emotionally available in a fucking week <\/i>than most of Zach\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s previous partners in the entire course of their relationship.<\/p>\n Zach had been silent for much too long now.<\/p>\n \u00e2\u20ac\u0153We\u00e2\u20ac\u2122re both clean,\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Chris said suddenly, with forced brightness. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153In every respect.\u00e2\u20ac\u009d He shifted against Zach\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s cock and hissed sharply at the intimate contact. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153So how do you feel about a round \u00e2\u20ac\u02dcau naturel\u00e2\u20ac\u2122<\/i>?\u00e2\u20ac\u009d<\/p>\n \u00e2\u20ac\u0153Fuck, Chris,\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Zach groaned. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153You can\u00e2\u20ac\u2122t say<\/i> things like that.\u00e2\u20ac\u009d His cock, the traitor, ignored him and surged upward eagerly as Chris squirmed in his lap.<\/p>\n \u00e2\u20ac\u0153Oh, but I can. And I want to.\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Chris reached for Zach\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s dick. With a few torturous twists of his wrist he teased Zach to full hardness. Then he positioned himself before Zach managed to round up enough brain cells for a protest. Then Chris pushed down, sinking down on Zach, slick and hot and tight, and when Chris clenched around his cock, Zach couldn\u00e2\u20ac\u2122t remember how to spell \u00e2\u20ac\u0153coherent\u00e2\u20ac\u009d much less come up with anything the resembled such a reply.<\/p>\n \u00e2\u2122\u00a6<\/p>\n Later, after a long, tenderly entangled nap, they lay naked on the bed, Chris on his stomach, Zach on his side next to him. Zach was leisurely stroking Chris\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s ass. He wasn\u00e2\u20ac\u2122t sure if he was up to another orgasm, or even just to getting up and staggering to the kitchen for dinner. Also, he hadn\u00e2\u20ac\u2122t forgotten their conversation in the whirlpool. But he had no idea how to get back on topic.<\/p>\n \u00e2\u20ac\u0153How about it,\u00e2\u20ac\u009d he said softly, pressing his lips against Chris\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s tailbone, \u00e2\u20ac\u0153you come a fifth time and I buy dinner tomorrow?\u00e2\u20ac\u009d<\/p>\n Chris groaned. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153Next time I come up<\/i> with a megalomaniac notion like that bet today, kindly remind me that I\u00e2\u20ac\u2122m not twenty anymore. Or just kill me right away.\u00e2\u20ac\u009d<\/p>\n \u00e2\u20ac\u0153Never.\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Zach snuggled closer to Chris, memorizing hard muscles and warm skin with his hands and his whole body. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153I like you just the way you are. All good and crazy and thirty-three.\u00e2\u20ac\u009d<\/p>\n He kept caressing Chris, trailing gentle fingertips across and around his hole, teasing the tender skin. Chris fidgeted under his ministrations and couldn\u00e2\u20ac\u2122t contain sounds of helpless delight. Zach didn\u00e2\u20ac\u2122t mind the messiness of sex, even reveled in it. But this was nice, too. Chris\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s body positively glowed, pink and soft and so clean. And to have Chris spread out like that under him, so open to him … Zach rolled onto his knees and pressed his lips against the pucker of Chris\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s asshole. His cock stirred with an almost painful effort. But the gargled groan Chris tried to muffle in the pillow was too sweet to resist.<\/p>\n \u00e2\u20ac\u0153Like that, do you?\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Zach inhaled Chris\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s scent, warm with the whiskey and tobacco aroma of the bath salts that still clung to his skin. He didn\u00e2\u20ac\u2122t wait for a reply. Instead he nuzzled the soft skin behind Chris\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s balls and started licking upwards, in quick, strong licks, like a cat that meant business. He slowed down when reached Chris\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s entrance, circling the rim with slow, firm pressure. Chris shuddered and cried out, a helpless, incomprehensible noise, and easily one of the sexiest sounds Zach had heard in his life.<\/p>\n \u00e2\u20ac\u0153You\u00e2\u20ac\u2122re killing me,\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Chris moaned. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153I can\u00e2\u20ac\u2122t \u00e2\u20ac\u201c I really<\/i> can\u00e2\u20ac\u2122t \u00e2\u20ac\u201c OH GOD\u00e2\u20ac\u201d\u00e2\u20ac\u009d<\/p>\n \u00e2\u20ac\u0153Oh, I think you can, Christopher. I think you will. And you will start with lying still.\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Zach rested his right forearm across the small of Chris\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s back, just above his ass, to emphasize his order. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153Very still. Do not move.\u00e2\u20ac\u009d<\/p>\n \u00e2\u20ac\u0153Unf.\u00e2\u20ac\u009d<\/i><\/p>\n To discover a lover\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s body with his mouth \u00e2\u20ac\u201c licking, sucking, kissing, and yes, biting<\/i> \u00e2\u20ac\u201c what could be more delicious, more erotic? Not much<\/i>, Zach thought as he lowered his head again. He actually bit into Chris\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s left buttock this time, and he bit down hard<\/i>, hard enough that Chris cried out. Smiling, Zach soothed the bite with gentle flicks of his tongue. Then he spread Chris\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s cheeks and licked down deeper.<\/p>\n He teased Chris with tender circles before he pressed inside. Soft, slick, tight, hot \u00e2\u20ac\u201c the holy litany of clich\u00c3\u00a9s, and they were all true. Sensitive skin pulsed under the touch of his tongue, and the intimate vulnerability of the act took his breath away. The sensations were almost too intense; Zach felt hollow, ready to float away. He didn\u00e2\u20ac\u2122t know anymore if he was holding Chris down or if he was clinging to Chris so he<\/i> wouldn\u00e2\u20ac\u2122t drift away. He concentrated on the rhythm until he grew aware of an echo \u00e2\u20ac\u201c soft huffs in sync with his thrusts. Tenderly, Zach trailed his fingers down Chris\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s taint to his balls. He cupped Chris with his left hand, very gently, just to feel how close Chris was. Very close.<\/i><\/p>\n Somewhat to his surprise Zach realized that he was getting there again, too. But after spending the better part of the day having sex, he was hypersensitive. Pain and pleasure were almost indistinguishable. Yet he didn\u00e2\u20ac\u2122t mind. Inspired, he slipped his middle finger inside, underneath his tongue, so he could reach Chris\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s prostate. At the same time he sucked hard and squeezed Chris\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s balls with just enough pressure. He would have laughed at Chris\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s scream and how Chris writhed under his mouth, but Zach couldn\u00e2\u20ac\u2122t stand the tension anymore. He collapsed on his back and gripped his own cock, jerking once, twice, and then he came again, the fourth time that day, an awkward, almost grueling orgasm.<\/p>\n Afterwards, every movement was an ordeal. But somehow, they managed to curl up into each other\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s arms, and Zach, after a full day\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s fucking, didn\u00e2\u20ac\u2122t think of sex but of love. For the second time in a week, Zach wanted … well, not now<\/i> \u00e2\u20ac\u201c he couldn\u00e2\u20ac\u2122t move now, definitely not, or the next eight to ten hours \u00e2\u20ac\u201c at the very least \u00e2\u20ac\u201c but at some point in the not too distant future, he wanted to offer Chris the same kind of trust \u00e2\u20ac\u201c the same kind of lust, too \u00e2\u20ac\u201c that he\u00e2\u20ac\u2122d given Zach so freely since their first crazy night together.<\/p>\n \u00e2\u20ac\u0153Chris?\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Zach whispered.<\/p>\n \u00e2\u20ac\u0153Hmm?\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Chris didn\u00e2\u20ac\u2122t even open his eyes.<\/p>\n \u00e2\u20ac\u0153One of these days,\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Zach said slowly, hyperaware of his heartbeat, a strange and heavy rhythm that was palpable in his whole body, \u00e2\u20ac\u0153when we can move again, and when the idea of another orgasm is actually appealing again … I do want you<\/i> to fuck me<\/i>.\u00e2\u20ac\u009d<\/p>\n Chris jerked his eyes open and stared at him. In the fading light, his eyes were almost surreal in their blue brightness. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153You trust me that much?\u00e2\u20ac\u009d<\/p>\n \u00e2\u20ac\u0153Yes.\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Zach wanted to add something, wanted to apologize for his silence in the Jacuzzi. But he didn\u00e2\u20ac\u2122t have enough brain left for explanations or further declarations of love. While he was still fumbling to find the words he wanted, he fell asleep.<\/p>\n \u00e2\u2122\u00a6<\/p>\n Two days later, Zach watched with bemusement how Chris turned into iron \u00e2\u20ac\u201c no, into frantic <\/i>chef. It was one of those things he\u00e2\u20ac\u2122d never noticed about Chris before, in spite of being friends for seven years and spending so much time practically living together, on set and during junkets. One of those small things about Chris that struck him quite out of the blue this week, that made his heart beat faster and his stomach tighten. Chris.<\/i> How could there be so much he didn\u00e2\u20ac\u2122t know about Chris, so many details he\u00e2\u20ac\u2122d never appreciated before? Like how fucking adorable he was in an apron, cooking up a storm for Karl. Also, either Chris\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s dietician had successfully brainwashed him at long last, or he was more of a foodie than Zach had realized so far.<\/p>\n \u00e2\u20ac\u0153Chris, if there are two salads to go with those steaks, I think we can risk baked potatoes. Karl won\u00e2\u20ac\u2122t mind a few carbs.\u00e2\u20ac\u009d And what the hell was Chris doing with a bowl full of flowers<\/i> over there? Zach abandoned the cucumbers he\u00e2\u20ac\u2122d been dicing and went to investigate.<\/p>\n Chris frowned and nervously licked his lips. Rubbing his neck, he nodded. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153You\u00e2\u20ac\u2122re right, of course. There should be baked potatoes.\u00e2\u20ac\u009d He turned around and pulled a pot out of the cabinet. Then he hesitated. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153I like them kind of soft, so I cook them before I bake them. Do you think that\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s okay for Karl? And\u00e2\u20ac\u201d\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Chris froze and swallowed hard. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153Damn. I don\u00e2\u20ac\u2122t even know how you<\/i> like your potatoes.\u00e2\u20ac\u009d<\/p>\n Zach took the pot out of Chris\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s hands and put it on the counter. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153I\u00e2\u20ac\u2122m fine with mushy potatoes. And with firm potatoes. And with no<\/i> potatoes.\u00e2\u20ac\u009d He wrapped his arms around Chris, apron and all. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153What do you think will happen, Chris? It\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s just Karl.\u00e2\u20ac\u009d<\/p>\n Chris shook his head and shrugged. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153I don\u00e2\u20ac\u2122t even know, man. It\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s …\u00e2\u20ac\u009d<\/p>\n \u00e2\u20ac\u0153Po-tay-to, po-tah-to.\u00e2\u20ac\u009d<\/i> He kissed Chris, firmly on the lips. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153There\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s no correct way to do this.\u00e2\u20ac\u009d<\/p>\n \u00e2\u20ac\u0153At least there\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s a correct way to cook steaks.\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Chris sighed. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153Or at least the perfect<\/i> way according to Gordon Ramsay.\u00e2\u20ac\u009d<\/p>\n Zach was not about to argue steaks with Chris; he\u00e2\u20ac\u2122d done so before and lost. Well, he didn\u00e2\u20ac\u2122t have to be right all the time, and Chris really did make fantastic steaks. So he poked at the flowers floating in a large bowl of water mixed with vinegar instead. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153What are those for? Some kind of hippie decoration thing?\u00e2\u20ac\u009d<\/p>\n \u00e2\u20ac\u0153Nope. Salad. Just want to get the bugs out of the blossoms for now.\u00e2\u20ac\u009d<\/p>\n \u00e2\u20ac\u0153What?!\u00e2\u20ac\u009d<\/p>\n \u00e2\u20ac\u0153Tropaeolum, commonly known as nasturtium. The crimson stuff out front. Looks nice, tastes even nicer. Spicy. Salad.\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Chris went back to staring at three giant potatoes as if the solution to all of his problems was hidden under their barely freckled skin. The potatoes were so fresh that they were smooth like satin and clean as if the farmer at the market had polished them by hand. They didn\u00e2\u20ac\u2122t seem particularly concerned by Chris\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s worries.<\/p>\n \u00e2\u20ac\u0153It\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s gonna be okay, Chris.\u00e2\u20ac\u009d<\/p>\n *<\/p>\n The resounding knock was followed by an irritated holler. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153Seriously, Pine, you really went and rented a Hobbit hole<\/i>? You\u00e2\u20ac\u2122re crazy!\u00e2\u20ac\u009d<\/p>\n Next to Zach, Chris froze. And Zach felt it, too \u00e2\u20ac\u201c that moment of no return. For a fraction of a second he thought of offering to hide in the bedroom until Karl left. Or punching Karl unconscious before he could recognize him? Or pretending he\u00e2\u20ac\u2122d just dropped by, unannounced. But Chris<\/i>, with his list of phone calls and emails (parents, sister; a few friends; agent, publicist) for the next day painstakingly written down in his new notebook\u00e2\u20ac\u201d Zach swallowed hard and thought of his own list. Focused. On his breathing, on his center. On Chris<\/i>.<\/p>\n Chris opened the door. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153Hey, man.\u00e2\u20ac\u009d He took a step backwards and rubbed his neck. Inhaled a shaky breath before he added: \u00e2\u20ac\u0153And I guess you\u00e2\u20ac\u2122re right. I must be crazy. At least that\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s exactly what Zach keeps saying.\u00e2\u20ac\u009d<\/p>\n For a split-second Zach was torn between sympathy and amusement. Oh Chris.<\/i> And poor Karl, inadvertently cast in the role of absent parental figures. (Better Karl than Paramount, though, Zach thought.) And then, for a fraction of a heartbeat, Zach felt a flash of fear, too. Because this \u00e2\u20ac\u201c Chris<\/i> \u00e2\u20ac\u201c could never be just another one of his half-assed attempts at a relationship. He took Chris\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s hand and entwined their fingers. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153Because it\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s true. You are<\/i> crazy.\u00e2\u20ac\u009d<\/p>\n Karl dumped his duffel bag and frowned. Apart from that, he showed no particular reaction. There was no step back, no double-take, no expression of shock or even surprise. He just stood there and studied the two of them, took in their linked hands, and frowned his trademark frown, annoyed and amused in equal parts. A moment later, he shook his head.<\/p>\n \u00e2\u20ac\u0153Sorry, Chris,\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Karl said with fake contrition. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153I take that back. And Zach, you\u00e2\u20ac\u2122re wrong. You\u00e2\u20ac\u2122re both<\/i> crazy. Goddamn fucking crazy. Also, I should have trusted my gut instinct. Why did I agree to call off the betting pool after the last junket? I could be a very rich man right now. Damn you both and your atrocious timing, you morons. I hope there\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s steak and beer, at least.\u00e2\u20ac\u009d<\/p>\n \u00e2\u20ac\u0153Of course,\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Chris said as he led the way to the kitchen and the terrace. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153Beer, blood orange martini, or apple pie sangria. Wine. White or red. And water, of course.\u00e2\u20ac\u009d<\/p>\n \u00e2\u20ac\u0153Pine, I\u00e2\u20ac\u2122m not a girl<\/i>. Give me a damn beer.\u00e2\u20ac\u009d<\/p>\n Chris picked a martini, of course, and Zach (because a) there was nothing wrong with girly drinks, and b) he happened to like apple pie in any form) opted for the sangria. When Karl stepped out onto the terrace to admire the pool, Zach hung back and used the opportunity to pull Chris into a tight hug. Every muscle in Chris\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s back was in solid knots with tension. But when Zach kissed him, Chris was already smiling.<\/p>\n \u00e2\u20ac\u0153Is that what relief tastes like?\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Zach whispered. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153Like blood orange martini and your smile?\u00e2\u20ac\u009d<\/p>\n Chris shrugged, but his eyes were cerulean bright.<\/p>\n Then it was time for a guided tour of the Hobbit hole. Some details caused exasperation. (\u00e2\u20ac\u0153A sauna? Of course. It\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s not enough for Pine to play Hobbit. No, Quinto here needs to live out a Lord of the Rings\/So NoTORIous crossover<\/em>. Why am I not surprised?\u00e2\u20ac\u009d) Others \u00e2\u20ac\u201c the kitchen, the fireplaces, and the Rohan guestroom where Karl would stay for the night \u00e2\u20ac\u201c were deemed acceptable. (\u00e2\u20ac\u0153Oh man, that brings back memories. Good times, good times. You do realize that now I have to bore you with completely inappropriate stories about the \u00e2\u20ac\u02dcLord of the Rings\u00e2\u20ac\u2122 cast all night, don\u00e2\u20ac\u2122t you?\u00e2\u20ac\u009d)<\/p>\n Since the weather had turned nice again, they ate dinner on the terrace. Over Chris\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s grilled marinated Portobello mushrooms, conversation turned to work. Chris was in two minds about \u00e2\u20ac\u0153Z for Zachariah\u00e2\u20ac\u009d \u00e2\u20ac\u201c he\u00e2\u20ac\u2122d had fun filming but to play a part that didn\u00e2\u20ac\u2122t exist in the novel didn\u00e2\u20ac\u2122t sit well with him. Zach was more excited about Berlin than about the movie he was doing there. And while Karl had enjoyed working on \u00e2\u20ac\u0153Almost Human\u00e2\u20ac\u009d, he wasn\u00e2\u20ac\u2122t overly optimistic about the show\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s endurance. (\u00e2\u20ac\u0153If they start with airing a show in the wrong order, that already tells you something. Oh well; I\u00e2\u20ac\u2122ll enjoy it as long as it lasts.\u00e2\u20ac\u009d) The perfectly seared steak with soft, butter drenched baked potatoes garnered Karl\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s approval, but the salads elicited vicious amusement. (\u00e2\u20ac\u0153Flowers? Pine, you want me to eat flowers<\/i>? Oh, Princess, why did anyone ever doubt your romantic destiny?\u00e2\u20ac\u009d)<\/p>\n When it grew chilly out on the terrace after dinner, they went back inside. Chris lit a fire in the living room and got another three bottles of beer from the fridge. Karl was sprawling in an armchair, while Zach had usurped a corner of one of the comfortable sofas. After Chris had handed Karl his beer, he hesitated. Before Zach had a chance to say something, Karl rolled his eyes and shooed Chris with an impatient gesture over to the couch. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153It\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s not as if I haven\u00e2\u20ac\u2122t seen you in Zach\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s lap before. If you start making out, I\u00e2\u20ac\u2122ll go to bed. And if you subject me to any horrible noises tonight, I swear you will live to regret it. But I promise I can handle the two of you on one and the same sofa.\u00e2\u20ac\u009d<\/p>\n How Chris blushed, all over his face and even down his neck, would never fail to amuse Zach. But when Chris slumped down at his side, so obviously drained, he remembered that for Chris tonight meant much more than dinner with an old friend.<\/p>\n \u00e2\u20ac\u0153C\u00e2\u20ac\u2122mere,\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Zach murmured. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153Curl up.\u00e2\u20ac\u009d<\/p>\n That Chris obeyed without a word or a wisecrack, simply toeing off his shoes and pulling up his legs until he sat leaning against Zach, was telling, too. From his armchair, Karl was watching them with quiet amusement. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153So, that.\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Karl gestured at them with his bottle. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153The two of you. Top secret, or can I say that I know what Zachary Quinto did during his summer vacation when the next reporter nags me?\u00e2\u20ac\u009d<\/p>\n Now it was Zach\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s turn to flush. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153Shit, sorry about that. I honestly didn\u00e2\u20ac\u2122t think they\u00e2\u20ac\u2122d get back to you about that.\u00e2\u20ac\u009d<\/p>\n \u00e2\u20ac\u0153No big deal,\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Karl said with a shrug and took a swallow of beer. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153I don\u00e2\u20ac\u2122t mind covering up for you guys. But a warning would have been nice.\u00e2\u20ac\u009d<\/p>\n Chris rubbed his face. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153Sorry,\u00e2\u20ac\u009d he mumbled, too, although he\u00e2\u20ac\u2122d had nothing to do with Zach\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s little white lie about his vacation. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153It\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s kinda new, and …\u00e2\u20ac\u009d<\/p>\n \u00e2\u20ac\u0153… it\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s going to be a circus when it gets out.\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Zach put his arm around Chris. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153We needed some time to figure things out before telling anyone.\u00e2\u20ac\u009d<\/p>\n \u00e2\u20ac\u0153And we kind of considered trying to keep it private,\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Chris said and sighed. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153But apparently I\u00e2\u20ac\u2122m a terrible actor, and so …\u00e2\u20ac\u009d He waved his hand.<\/p>\n Karl snorted. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153You\u00e2\u20ac\u2122re not, and you know that. Kindly quit fishing for compliments, Pine. But I agree. I have seen teenaged girls who are less obvious concerning the object of their affections. Nothing wrong with that, mind you. But I can see how that\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s awkward when paps and fans are out to get you. So how are you going to handle that?\u00e2\u20ac\u009d<\/p>\n Zach drained his beer and put the empty bottle on the coffee table. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153Well, obviously we\u00e2\u20ac\u2122re in the process of telling friends and family,\u00e2\u20ac\u009d he said and nodded at Karl. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153As well as publicists and agents. And we want to get it out of the way before Trek starts.\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Noticing how Chris tensed again, Zach rubbed his shoulder reassuringly. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153Chris is going to come to Berlin at some point. So our best guess is that it will happen then.\u00e2\u20ac\u009d<\/p>\n \u00e2\u20ac\u0153Paramount will be pissed.\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Then Karl grinned, dark eyes sparkling with wicked mirth. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153Or worse, they\u00e2\u20ac\u2122ll decide to make the most of it and put it in the script. And Trek fandom \u00e2\u20ac\u201c the fans will worship you. The romance!\u00e2\u20ac\u009d he exclaimed with a sweeping gesture, clutching at his heart. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153Decades of slashy dreams coming true at long last.\u00e2\u20ac\u009d<\/p>\n Chris and Zach groaned in unison. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153There is no escape,\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Chris muttered darkly. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153Trekkies, trekkies everywhere. Tomorrow my mother will tell me that she ships us, too.\u00e2\u20ac\u009d<\/p>\n Zach pressed a quick kiss against Chris\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s temple. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153I\u00e2\u20ac\u2122m sure she will,\u00e2\u20ac\u009d he said softly. He kept his arm around Chris\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s back, rubbing his shoulder with his left hand. Then he turned back to Karl. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153Concerning fans,\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Zach said. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153We kind of owe them for this. Because that\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s how it all started. With a fan. At the Ryan premiere, in London. Chris stole a notebook from a fan.\u00e2\u20ac\u009d<\/p>\n \u00e2\u20ac\u0153By mistake,\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Chris protested. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153I didn\u00e2\u20ac\u2122t steal it on purpose!\u00e2\u20ac\u009d<\/p>\n \u00e2\u20ac\u0153How can you steal something by mistake?\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Karl asked, an exact echo of Zach\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s first question about the notebook.<\/p>\n \u00e2\u20ac\u0153Well.\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Chris smiled. He reached up and squeezed Zach\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s hand before he launched into telling their story for the first time. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153It happened like this …\u00e2\u20ac\u009d<\/p>\n (Unnecessary disclaimer: the Instagram is fake, nothing but fantasy, and just an illustration for this story.)<\/p>\n Author\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s Notes: <\/strong><\/p>\n Many thanks to rabidchild67 for the idea of blood orange martinis.<\/p>\n \u00c2\u00ab<\/a> \u00e2\u2122\u00a5 \u00c2\u00bb<\/a><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" The Clouds Burst (Into Pluvial Porn) When Zach woke, he was lying on his back, his hands folded over his stomach. This \u00e2\u20ac\u0153vampire\u00e2\u20ac\u009d position, as Chris called it, was a left-over from Trek when he\u00e2\u20ac\u2122d had to nap like that … Continue reading ![\"fake](\"https:\/\/lh6.googleusercontent.com\/-HRnikCPlu1o\/Uy7odrspUXI\/AAAAAAAADYM\/jk7ys3TMKMA\/s800\/nasturtium.jpg\")
princess salad.<\/p>\n