Egyptian Nights
Characters: Regulus, Gaius Summary: The two return to Egypt, and Regulus is full of surprises
Gaius smiled widely as he looked around the familiar room of the Cairo hotel, pleased that Asar had been able to place them in the same rooms they'd had on their previous visit. It was more than a month closer to winter since the last time he'd been here, but the sun was just as searing as he remembered, although this time, he had thought to bring sunglasses to shade his eyes. He didn't need them in the dim, cool room, however; the golden light entering from the balcony windows was muted by the linen drapes drawn across them.
He moved to his bags, drawing his wand and swiftly unpacking the smaller one with a series of charms, then levitating the larger one out of the way. There weren't going to be in Cairo for too long before heading toLuxor , and he'd divided his clothing accordingly to make it easier to pack and unpack. Nodding with satisfaction when the chore was done, he slipped into the en suite for a quick, cool shower, changing into a light cotton robe the color of sand with elaborate embroidery at the neck, cuffs, and hem. He combed back his long, wavy hair, which dried swiftly in the dry air, and after dabbing on some cologne Severus had slipped him with a knowing smirk, he slipped into leather sandals and left his room, crossing to Regulus' door and lifting his hand to knock.
Regulus answered the summons quickly, Sekhmet right on his heels; he had finished unpacking and had showered and changed into lighter robes, a pale blue set close to the color of his eyes, and he applied a touch of cologne that Severus had given him. It had been an odd visit, and Regulus had got the impression that Severus was amused by something the entire time; he wasn't quite certain he believed Severus wanted him to test a new scent either, although he couldn't pinpoint why he was dubious. Still, it was an alluring cologne, and he thought wearing it couldn't hurt his chances of attracting Gaius' attention.
He greeted Gaius with a smile and opened the door wide. "Come in, please. Are you all settled in comfortably?"
Gaius stepped inside, slipping past Regulus perhaps a little more closely than absolutely necessary, close enough to catch the scents of freshly washed skin and the hint of cologne, a scent that seemed to enter his nose and descend immediately to far more sensitive parts of his body. He glanced up at Regulus' face, his eyes heavy-lidded, wondering if Regulus' skin would taste as delicious as it smelled.
Of course, he couldn't give in to the desire to push Regulus back against the wall and snog him breathless, and so he took another step, and another, before drawing in a breath and smiling warmly. "Yes, I'm settled in fine," he said, his voice perhaps a bit more husky than usual. "Did you want to go down to dinner or order from room service? I'm fine either way." Really it didn't matter where or what they ate, if it wasn't going to be him dining on Regulus in the big, comfortable bed.
"Actually, I made arrangements for us, if you do not mind going out," Regulus said, a mischievous gleam appearing in his eyes. "Are you too fatigued for a little adventure?"
Gaius' eyes widened, but he flushed with pleasure at the thought of Regulus doing something to surprise him, especially when it made Regulus' eyes light up in that way. "Adventure sounds fantastic," he replied, smiling widely. "What are we going to do? Do I need to change?"
"No, you needn't change," Regulus replied. "You might want something a little warmer to put on once the sun begins to set, but otherwise, you will be fine."
"I can't image needing anything to be warm," Gaius said, waving a hand. "I think I'll be fine. So, are we going now? I love surprises!"
Pleased by Gaius' enthusiasm, Regulus nodded and bent to pick up Sekhmet, cradling her comfortably in his arms. "Yes, we should depart now. Everything should be ready and waiting for us by the time we arrive." He shiftedSekhmet's weight to one arm and reached out to touch Gaius' shoulder, steering him to the door. "Have you traveled by magic carpet before?"
The contact of Regulus' fingers were warm on Gaius' shoulder, and he had to resist the urge to lean into the touch. Ever since their dinner at Vesuvius, he felt as though his skin were itching for Regulus' touch, and he longed to touch Regulus in return. But the thought of a ride on a magic carpet was also quite thrilling, since it meant he and Regulus would be on a very small area together, and he might even be able to sit pressed against him.
"No, I haven't, but it sounds like fun," he said enthusiastically, grinning at Regulus over his shoulder. "Serenus told me he jumped off one once - sounds frightening, even for someone whomythically always lands on his feet."
"It isn't that dangerous, but it can be frightening," Regulus said as they headed to the exit. "I have done it. Actually, it is a fairly common game here, and we tend to dare each other about who can jump from greater heights. As long as you have a competent driver, it is reasonably safe." He inclined his head slightly, smiling wryly. "Accidents do happen, of course. But I assure you, carpet jumping is not on the itinerary." He paused, giving Gaius a challenging look. "Not tonight, at any rate."
"I'll keep that in mind, next time you say we're doing something that's a surprise," Gaius teased, although he wasn't really worried. If Regulus wanted him to jump off a carpet, no doubt he'd do it, no matter how frightening it was.
They descended the steps and entered the cool marble foyer, which was surprisingly crowded. He pressed against Regulus' side so that they wouldn't get separated and looked around curiously. There was a couple standing to one side, dressed in robes made for a purpose that was unmistakable despite the difference of cultures.
"Oh, look, it's a wedding party," he said, smiling and taking it as a good omen. He wondered if Egyptian brides threw their bouquets, and, if so, if it might be worth mowing down a group of chattering females and making a grab for it himself; he wanted all the luck he could possibly get in his pursuit of Regulus.
Regulus paused, watching the wedding party for a moment, and he wondered if that was an omen; he wasn't a deeply spiritual man, but he would take all the help he could get, and so he sent up a silent prayer to whichever gods of his adopted country were listening to grant him aid in his quest to woo and win Gaius away from That Man.
"Asar hosts special events on a regular basis," he said. "His courtyard is a popular place for parties and receptions." He wondered if someday... No, he wouldn't get ahead of himself. First, he had turn attract Gaius' attention.
"I'm not surprised. It's so beautiful, especially the fountains," Gaius said, slipping past the guests and out of the hotel door. "Which way? Lead on, and I shall follow you to the ends of the earth." His tone was light, but he meant every word.
Regulus glanced around, looking for what Asar said would be waiting for them, and he nodded when he saw the rolled up carpet leaning against the wall.
"Here is what we need," he said, drawing his wand and unfurling the carpet with a simple flick. It was a compact model, large enough for two or three people, and it was richly colored with gold fringe. A command set it to levitating, and he held out his hand to Gaius, offering to help him up. "Getting on and off is a little awkward when you are not accustomed to it."
Gaius watched with interest as Regulus activated the carpet, admiring the colors and pleased with the small size. He didn't hesitate to clasp Regulus' hand firmly, bunching his robes slightly in his other hand as he knelt on the carpet, then settled himself cross-legged on one side. It felt odd, similar to hovering on a broom and yet more comfortable as well. "It feels like sitting on a cloud," he said, his eyes alight with excitement. "Am I all right here, or do I need to move to give you more room?"
Regulus certainly didn't mind if they were in close content, and he shook his head as he climbed on with easy agility. "You are all right," he said as he settled beside and a little behind Gaius, his leg pressing against Gaius'. He lifted his wand again and set the carpet moving with another command. "We must go slowly while we are in the city," he explained as the carpet lifted them above the heads of people moving on the street below. "But we can pick up speed once we are in the desert. How fast do you wish to go?"
The press of Regulus' leg against him made Gaius' breath catch, and distracted him so that he was caught by surprise as the carpet began to move. He instinctively clutched Regulus' leg with one hand and the side of the carpet with the other, giving a soft gasp as they rose higher into the air. It was definitely different than being on a broom, and he peered cautiously over the edge before turning his head to grin back at Regulus. "As fast as you care to go," he said gamely. After all, if he were frightened, he'd just use that as an excuse to clutch Regulus tighter.
"As you wish," Regulus replied, a wicked note in his voice. Gaius had no idea how experienced - and adventurous - a carpet flier Regulus was, but he was about to find out.
It took several minutes for them to exit the city even though they were flying, primarily because they were taking safe paths that were cloaked toMuggles , but once they passed the last of the buildings and foot traffic, Regulus sent the carpet soaring higher. The sun was already sinking in the sky, the colors providing a brilliant backdrop to their flight. WithSekhmet curled up in his lap, Regulus was free to wrap one arm around Gaius' waist, and he pressed closer.
"Hang on," he murmured in Gaius' ear. "We're about to get going."
With that, he accelerated the carpet, pushing it to go faster and faster as they sped over the dunes, leaving Cairo behind them.
The sensation of Regulus' arm sliding around his waist made Gaius feel trapped between melting and spontaneously bursting into flames of desire. It was a form of torture, knowing that Regulus was only doing it to keep him safe, while the contact was making Gaius aroused. But he wasn't above enjoying it, regardless of the innocence of the motivation, especially when Regulus' breath was warm and moist on his ear, his voice in danger of making Gaius shiver with delight. When they accelerated, he gave a small cry as though of surprise and leaned against Regulus, his hand tightening on Regulus' thigh.
"Oh, my," he said breathlessly, turning his head so that he could look at Regulus, his cheeks flushed with both desire and excitement. The wind was whipping through their hair, dark strands entwining, but Gaius didn't mind in the slightest. "This is very exciting!"
"I am glad you're enjoying the flight," Regulus replied, smiling. Gaius looked good wind-tousled, and Regulus had to resist the urge to nuzzle his flushed cheeks. "Just relax and enjoy the scenery. We are going quite a distance from Cairo."
"Sounds wonderful," Gaius said. He didn't care if they flew around the world a dozen times, if he could stay cuddled in Regulus' embrace like this. "This is much better than flying on a broom!" Regulus looked so care-free, and Gaius longed to lean just a little closer and press his lips to Regulus' so he could taste that beguiling smile.
"Do you think so?" Regulus' expression turned faux-innocent, and he sent the carpet into a sudden dip and brought it up sharply again, controlling it with masterful ease - not that Gaius had to know that yet.
Gaius gasped, wondering if Regulus had somehow lost control of the carpet, and he closed his eyes, turning his head and burying it in Regulus' shoulder. But he felt the carpet steady, and he lifted his head, shooting Regulus a suspicious look. "You did that on purpose! How naughty of you!"
Regulus laughed, his expression making it clear he was unrepentant, and he tightened his arm around Gaius, holding him steady while the carpet steadied its course. "I said we would be having an adventure, didn't I?"
"You did, indeed," Gaius replied with a chuckle, not minding in the slightest. It was so good to see Regulus laughing and enjoying himself, a far cry from the withdrawn, lonely man he'd been only a few weeks ago. "I like having adventures with you, and more than that, I'm very glad that you want to have one with me."
"Of course I do," Regulus replied with a warm smile. "We are friends, are we not? And friends have adventures together," he added, giving Gaius a little squeeze.
Friends. It was all Gaius could do not to wince at that word, as much as he wished that Regulus thought of him as something more. But then a thought occurred to him, and he decided that perhaps it was something he could use in his favor to get Regulus to become aware of him. "Yes, yes they do," he agreed, enjoying the way Regulus' arm tightening around him, the contact giving him a pleasant flutter of awareness. "Remind me to think of an appropriate 'adventure' to repay your kindness. Since friends always return favors, right?"
"If it involves adventure, I must say yes," Regulus replied, enjoying the feel of Gaius in his arms. Gaius seemed to fit against him quite nicely, and he was glad he had thought to askAsar for one of the smaller carpets so that he had an excuse to sit close. "We will continue to travel together, won't we, even when you have successfully landed your man?" he asked, curious as to how Gaius would respond since it would tell him much about where he stood.
"Of course we will!" Gaius said firmly. Even though Regulus was the man he was trying to land, Regulus didn't know it, and Gaius wanted him to be secure in the knowledge that he was a valued part of Gaius' life. "I'm not about to give up our friendship just because I'm with someone. Remember what I told you before? I am not going to have two separate lives again. If he can't accept Severus and Serenus and you as being important to me, then he wouldn't make me happy."
"Good." Regulus rested his chin on Gaius' shoulder, lulled by the mesmerizing rise and fall of the dunes beneath them. "It would not make me happy either."
Warmed by Regulus words and enjoying the sensation of Regulus leaning against him, Gaius turned his head and surreptitiously breathed in Regulus' scent. It was intoxicating, and he silently thanked whatever power had gifted him with this moment.
"So beautiful," he murmured.
"Indeed," Regulus said quietly, not moving even though he supposed he ought to. Gaius wasn't protesting, after all, and Regulus was not quite honorable enough not to steal what opportunities he could.
The rest of the journey passed swiftly. Too swiftly for Regulus' taste. It seemed as if they reached the camp site all too quickly, and Regulus released Gaius with reluctance and began guiding the carpet down into a smooth landing. "Camp site" was a too-pedestrian way to describe whatAsar had set up for them. In the shadows of the ruins of a long-forgotten temple, there waited a sheer white tent, its floor covered in cushions. Outside the tent, a large fire already crackled, and many thick rugs were already strewn around with repellent charms to protect them from sand and scorpions and whatever else might interrupt their pleasant idle.
Around the perimeter of the camp were bronze braziers, all already lit, and there was a low table near the fire set about with cushions and laden with delicacies, kept safe from the sand and from growing cold by more charms. There also rested on the table a small box tied neatly with a bow. From inside the tent came the soft sounds of music played on a Victrola, haunting and beautiful.
Once the carpet landed, hovering a few inches off the ground, Regulus lowered Sekhmet to the ground and alighted gracefully himself, and he held out his hand to Gaius once more. "What do you think?" he asked, hoping Gaius liked his surprise.
Gaius' eyes were as wide as saucers as he took in the sight of the surprise Regulus had arranged for him. "Adventure" it might be, but if he didn't know better, he might have thought it was a hedonistic seduction, which was, unfortunately, nothing but wishful thinking on his part.
"I think it's fantastic!" he said truthfully, giving Regulus a smile that was probably besotted, but he couldn't help it. "It's like something out of the tales of the Arabian nights."
He slipped his hand into Regulus', stepping down from the carpet even as he continued to peer around at everything. He didn't release Regulus' hand when he was firmly on the ground, instead pulling Regulus eagerly over to the tent so that he could peer inside, then toward the table. "I'm overwhelmed," he admitted, turning to throw his arms around Regulus, hugging him with enthusiasm. "Thank you so much. I couldn't possibly imagine a better adventure than this!"
Winding his arms around Gaius' waist, Regulus returned the embrace, holding Gaius just a little too closely for a mere platonic hug. "I am glad you like it," he said, pleased that he had made Gaius so happy. Let That Man try to top this, he thought smugly. "Shall we dine?" He gave Gaius a playful smile. "Or would you like to open your present first?"
"I don't know what I could have done to deserve a gift, but how can I resist?" Gaius asked, although he was very reluctant to lose Regulus' arms wrapped so reassuringly around him. Yet the night was just beginning, and if it continued to be this promising, who knew what else might be in store?
Stepping back slowly, Gaius moved to the table, sinking gracefully down on the cushions and reaching for the box. He turned his head and smiled at Regulus, lifting the box to his ear to listen to it. "Nothing alive, I take it?" he asked playfully.
"No, definitely not," Regulus replied as he too took a seat on the cushions, sitting near Gaius, close enough that he could lean over and brush against him.Sekhmet watched them for a moment with a look of feline hauteur before sauntering off to hunt in the ruins. "If memory serves, you have a birthday coming up soon, but really this was a case of 'I saw it and thought of you'."
Intrigued - and with his heart pounding in a way that made him feel positively lightheaded - Gaius untied the ribbon slowly, savoring the thought that Regulus had bought him a gift for no reason at all, other than just because he wanted to. Oh, friends certainly bought gifts for friends for no reason, but he allowed himself a brief daydream that Regulus had done it for reasons other than friendship.
The ribbon came apart, and Gaius reached out, lifting the lid and then peering inside. And what he saw took his breath away.
Nestled on layers of tissue paper was a gleaming golden cuff, set with jewels that sparkled brightly even in the fading light of the sun. He reached in, eyes wide with wonder, and picked it up, holding it up so he could examine the images of Bast that had been wrought on the surface with a masterful hand. Speechless, he turned to look at Regulus, then did the only thing he could think of. Wrapping his arms around Regulus, he hugged him fiercely, brushing his lips over Regulus' cheek as he murmured in Regulus' ear. "It's fantastic. Perfect. Thank you so much. I shall treasure it always, and it will always make me think of you and of this night."
The feel of Gaius' lips against his skin sent pleasurable tingles along Regulus' nerves, and the feel of Gaius' warm breath against his ear made his toes curl. So much for being disinterested, he thought wryly as he returned the embrace, smoothing his palms down Gaius' back.
"I am pleased you like it," he replied, pulling back and smiling at Gaius. "It was in a recent shipment of merchandise, and I could not bear to offer it for sale when I knew at first sight on whose arm it belonged."
"I love it." Gaius returned the smile, wishing that he dared to give Regulus the kiss he so desperately wished to give him in gratitude for the gift. Instead he held out the cuff to Regulus, then lifted his arm, pulling back the sleeve of his robe. "You must put it on me."
Taking the cuff, Regulus grasped Gaius' hand as if to hold his arm steady and stroked the back of Gaius' hand gently with his thumb as he fastened the cuff on Gaius' wrist. Then he clasped Gaius' hand between both his own and admired the way the cuff gleamed richly against Gaius' pale skin.
"Beautiful and perfect," he murmured.
"Yes," Gaius agreed, but he was looking at Regulus, not the cuff. Regulus' hands were warm on his, and he curled his fingers around Regulus', squeezing them tightly. "It is a magnificent gift, and I don't know how to begin to thank you for it or for all of this. It's one of the most wonderful surprises anyone has ever given me."
The first of many, I hope, Regulus thought as he squeezed Gaius' hand in return before reluctantly releasing it. "You needn't thank me. Consider it an early birthday gift or a belated way of thanking you for helping me in more ways than one," he said. "However you choose to think of it, I want you to relax and enjoy it."
"I will. I promise." Gaius would have no trouble fulfilling that promise, and he put the box aside before lounging back against the cushions, looking very much like the cat who had eaten all the cream. "So... you mentioned food,Schones? I don't know what you could possibly do to top what you've already done for me, but I'm certainly game to let you try."
Kneeling by the table, Regulus began uncovering the dishes, revealing an array of choices - fish, lamb, and several different vegetable dishes. There was wine as well, and Regulus uncorked the bottle and poured a glass for both of them, handing a glass to Gaius with a smile.
"What do you see that you like?" he asked, gazing intently at Gaius. "I will be happy to serve it to you."
You... naked and hungry for me. Gaius lifted the wine glass to his lips, taking a deep swallow as he fought back the betraying words that trembled on his lips. "It all looks fantastic," he managed to get out, wondering if it were possible for Regulus to hear the hammering of his heart. He could drown in Regulus' eyes, and he was famished, but not for food. Yet he had to reply or Regulus would probably think he'd lost his mind.
"I'll try anything," he murmured. "Just give me the same as you want for yourself, and I'm sure that will be good."
Regulus couldn't possibly give Gaius what he truly wanted for himself at this moment, and so he turned his attention to the food instead. He picked up a plate and added little samples of all the dishes. "I think you should be daring and try it all," he said. "But you should start with this," he added, picking up a piece of lamb and offering it to Gaius. "It's very savory and tender."
"Is it indeed?" Gaius blinked, fighting off the mental images that rose in his mind about just what types of daring things he'd like to try with Regulus. Leaning forward, he wrapped his lips around the piece of lamb, relishing the brush of his lips against Regulus' fingers even more than the succulent meat. He longed to linger, but didn't dare, and so he moved his head back as he chewed the meat, swallowing and then nodding. "It's very good; one of the best things I've ever tasted."
Regulus had to repress a shiver at the touch of Gaius' lips, and his voice was husky when he spoke again. "Do you want more?"
"Yes, please," Gaius replied, taking another sip of the wine. He needed the fortification if he were going to get through this evening without making a total fool of himself by pouncing on Regulus. The things Regulus' voice did to him should be illegal, and if this were how Regulus made him feel without even trying, he thought that if Regulus really did try to seduce him, it just might kill him.
Picking up a fork, Regulus speared a bite of spicy couscous and offered it to Gaius next. "Try this. It will warm your tongue."
Gaius thought that if he got any warmer, he might just burst into flame, but he smiled and again leaned forward, accepting the couscous and savoring it. "You're right, it does," he murmured, using the excuse to drain his wine glass, then reaching for the bottle to refill it. Deciding that turn about was fair play, Gaius reached for a piece of tandoori chicken and offered it to Regulus with a wicked gleam in his eyes. "Your turn."
This time, Regulus didn't demur; with a heated gleam in his eyes, he leaned forward and took the bite of chicken from Gaius' fingers, barely suppressing the temptation to swipe at them with his tongue. But that, he knew, would not be a platonic gesture, and he didn't want to show his hand so soon, not until he was certain Gaius could be persuaded to give up That Man in favor of him.
"Excellent," he said, a sensual smile curving his lips. "I have never tasted better."
Gaius licked his lips, knowing that he was in dangerous territory, but unable to resist playing with fire. "So, tell me, what do you think of the use of food as part of a seduction?" he asked, picking up a piece of the lamb and holding it out the Regulus. "Is it something that appeals to you, or do you consider it too obvious?"
"I believe sharing food can be a very sensual experience," Regulus said before he accepted the bite of lamb. He leaned back on his cushions, reclining with indolent grace. "One that appeals to the senses as few other methods of seduction do. The scent of the food mingling with the perfume of your lover's growing desire. The taste of it mingled with the taste of your lover's flesh. There are, of course, the more obvious visual presentations, but an aesthetically arranged dish can certainly add to the romantic atmosphere." He sat up and reached out, brushing his thumb along Gaius' bottom lip. "Not to mention the tactile aspect of dining together," he added innocently. "It does offer the perfect opportunity to touch and be touched."
Gaius' eyes went heavy lidded, and his toes curled so hard in his sandals that his right foot cramped. Regulus was teasing him, he must be, and it was almost too damned effective. The innocent look didn't fool him for a minute, and he only hoped that the fact that he was about to die of longing didn't show on his face.
"So it does," he agreed, deciding to fight fire with fire and see if Regulus would back down from his attempt to torment him. He swiped his tongue over the pad of Regulus' thumb, enjoying the taste of Regulus and longing for more. "Touch and taste and scent are so very important to garneringsomeone's interest." He dropped his voice to a throaty purr. "And of course, saying the right words in the right way can be very effective as well. Don't you think so, beautiful one?"
Regulus swallowed hard, his throat suddenly going dry, and he glanced downward briefly, reminding himself that Gaius probably thought he was playing a game and had jumped in to turn the tables on him. Or worse, perhaps Gaius was practicing his skills in hopes that what worked with Regulus would also work with That Man. Surely there was no other reason Gaius would call him 'beautiful'. He considered himself attractive enough, but his 'beauty' had been marred by the scars left behind by Bellatrix.
But he rallied himself, determined not to be outdone. "Indeed," he said at last. "Soft, sweet words can be quite alluring - as long as the listener does not find them too exaggerated."
Gaius paused, wondering if Regulus thought he had taken the teasing too far; he saw the way Regulus dropped his eyes, and he immediately felt guilty, reminding himself that although Regulus was much better, he wasn't completely healed of everything that had happened to him. Moving closer, he put an arm around Regulus' shoulders. "But you are beautiful; you always have been, and you always will be," he said quietly, his tone full of sincerity rather than any attempt to beguile. "Don't you remember when I gave you your nickname, all that time ago? Schones means beautiful one; you were beautiful to me then, and you are beautiful to me now. If a friend might be allowed to say that to another friend."
"I had forgotten," Regulus admitted. He paused, debating the wisdom of his next action, and then allowed himself the luxury of leaning against Gaius. Perhaps Gaius was speaking only as his friend, but at least he could take some comfort in the knowledge that Gaius found him attractive. That was a good sign, he hoped, even if he had difficulty accepting the word being applied to him. "If a friend is allowed to say that to another friend," he said slowly, resting his hand on Gaius' knee, "then I may be allowed to say you are beautiful to me too."
Warmed by Regulus' touch and his words, Gaius flushed, turning his head and pressing his lips to Regulus' cheek. He was very relieved that apparently Regulus hadn't caught on to just how much Gaius wanted him, and that he hadn't caused Regulus any lasting harm. He needed to move more slowly, but it was blasted difficult to do when Regulus was so appealing and Gaius wanted him with such desperation.
"I'm glad that I am," he replied softly. "I know that you have quite the critical eye where beauty is concerned, so I take that as high praise, indeed." And it certainly shouldn't hurt when it came to actually wooing Regulus. "So, now that we have decided that we are quite the most gorgeous creatures we know, how about some more of that delicious food? You need to fortify yourself, because I may just suggest an adventure or two of my own for this evening."
"Oh, really?" Regulus raised a questioning eyebrow as he reached for the second plate and began choosing dishes for himself. "That sounds quite intriguing. Do I dare ask what they might be?" He regarded Gaius with growing curiosity. "Perhaps you want another carpet ride, one with a loop-de-loop this time? Or do you intend to ask me to dance under the stars?" he asked, gesturing to the tent where the Victrola still played.
Gaius laughed, amused that Regulus had so easily guessed what he was thinking. "You know me so well, don't you? Yes, I was going to ask you to dance with me under the Egyptian moon. Perhaps now I shouldn't, though, and come up with something unexpected instead. I don't want you to think I'm boring and predictable, or else you won't want to take me on other adventures with you, and that would make me very sad."
"Boring and predictable are not words that come to mind when I think of you," Regulus replied as he picked up a fork and began to eat, his appetite quite hearty for once. "We shall dance, then, and if you think of anything else, we will add it to our itinerary. We have all night, after all, and we are not on any schedule except our own." He paused, considering what Gaius had said. "Do I know you well?" he asked. "You know me quite well, of course, so there is no question about that."
Regulus' words warmed him, and Gaius picked up his own plate and fork and began to eat as well, enjoying Regulus' company and the knowledge that Regulus had done this for him. "Yes, we have all night, and I can't think of any way I'd rather spend it," he said, then took a moment to savor another piece of lamb, as well as to mull over Regulus' question.
"I think you do know me well," he said finally, his voice low and thoughtful. "Not that I'm an enigma wrapped in a conundrum or anything; until the last few years, my life has been rather uncomplicated, and I suppose that makes me the same way. I have very few secrets of my own, although I will protect yours with my life." He met Regulus' gaze with eyes full of sincerity. "I do know you very well, and what I know, I admire more than you might guess. You are... a man like no other, and I am so glad you have let me be a part of your life."
Regulus was disarmed by the kind and complimentary words and also pleased; if Gaius thought so much of him, perhaps it would not be as difficult as he feared to win Gaius away from That Man. "At one time, there was little enough about me to be admired, but I like to think things have changed since then," he said. "I am pleased that you find me worth knowing, and I am glad to be a part of your life as well. I count myself fortunate that you were willing to give me a second chance after I deceived you because your friendship has been quite important to me over the years."
"Everyone makes mistakes," Gaius said, then reached out to touch Regulus' hand briefly. "I gave you a second chance, and then when I made a mistake, you gave me a second chance. I've always believed in treating people as I would like to be treated, although I must admit, I've never had it return to me in so direct a fashion before." He smiled. "But I'm glad it did, because your friendship is important to me, too, and if we hadn't forgiven each other, we would not be sitting here now, having a lovely meal amidst the beauty of the desert. Hedonist that I am, I shouldn't like to have been deprived of this adventure, nor your company."
Regulus reached for his glass and raised it. "I will drink to that," he said, taking a healthy sip. "To hedonism and second chances." He smiled at Gaius over the rim of his glass, his pale eyes gleaming. "And to deepening friendships."
With a slight smile, Gaius reach for his own glass, raising it and then draining the rest of the wine. "I am more than happy to drink to that," he said, pleased by Regulus' words. After all, what was love but all the potential of friendship fully realized?
He longed to move into Regulus' arms, but while he couldn't do so in the particular fashion he preferred, he did have other options. "How about that dance now? We move very well together, after all."
That prospect sounded much better than food at the moment, and Regulus wasted no time in putting his plate and wine aside. Rising to his feet, he moved away from the cushions and closer to the tent, where the music was more audible, and he held out his hand to Gaius. "This is better than a crowded club, I think," he said. "If only because I needn't worry about anyone cutting in."
Gaius rose as well, kicked off his shoes, and smiled as he moved to take Regulus' hand, stepping close to Regulus' body. "You're taller, so you lead," he said, his eyes already dancing with happiness. There was a light breeze blowing, ruffling Regulus' long hair, and Gaius itched to run his hands through it. There couldn't possibly be a more romantic venue than where they stood, and he wished that a genie would pop up from somewhere to grant his wish that Regulus kiss him under the stars.
Sliding one arm around Gaius' waist, Regulus held him close and began leading him through the steps of a slow, easy dance; it wasn't about the dancing for Regulus so much as it was about the opportunity to hold Gaius, even if he couldn't take things as far as he wanted to. This was enough for now. It would have to be.
After a few minutes of easy movement, Regulus acted on mischievous impulse and swept Gaius into a deep dip. "I wonder if you will be able to get your man to dance with you like this," he said, deciding it was time to start sowing the seeds of doubt. "Or this well," he added with a little smirk.
Gaius gasped softly as he found himself suddenly dipped back over Regulus' arm, but he wasn't worried that Regulus would drop him. He was surprised, however, that Regulus brought up the subject of "his man", and he wondered with rising hope if that meant Regulus really was jealous. "I wonder, too," he said softly. "He does move very gracefully, so I wouldn't be surprised if he was a good dancer. And he's taller than me, which I also like. I'm rather fond of being the smaller partner."
Lifting Gaius upright again, Regulus used the transition move as an excuse to pull Gaius even closer against him. "Do you?" He let his hand stray lower on Gaius' back as he resumed the steps of their dance. "Why is that?"
Gaius couldn't help but arch slightly as he felt Regulus' hand slide down his back. He found himself held very closely indeed, not that he minded one bit; in fact, he only hoped that Regulus wouldn't suddenly decide he was too close. At least he had the excuse, if he needed it, that he'd drunk quite a bit of wine.
"Yes, I do," he murmured, letting the hand he had on Regulus' shoulder slip closer to Regulus' neck. "Perhaps it goes along with my preference for bottoming and being submissive; I like the feeling of being cherished and stroked and having someone bigger and stronger to care for me. Or maybe it's just because I'm a cat, through and through."
"That sounds like the most likely option to me," Regulus said, laughing quietly as he relaxed into the dance once more. "No wonder you were so reluctant to give up being Anubis. You had everything you wanted!"
Gaius searched Regulus' face for any sign of pain when he talked about Gaius' feline form and the time they'd spent together. It had been a sensitive topic at one point in their relationship, but this time, Regulus' voice was light and he seemed to hold no lingering hurt. Which was a very, very good thing.
Smiling widely, Gaius nodded. "I did, didn't I? An incredibly handsome man to stroke me and care for me and tell me how gorgeous I was, who carried me everywhere and fulfilled my every whim. Who could ask for more? Of course, you know you had me eating out of your hand as well."
"Well, you were gorgeous, and I enjoyed stroking you," Regulus murmured, smoothing his hand up and down the length of Gaius' back as if to illustrate his point. "It was my pleasure to take care of you and spoil you. All I craved was the sound of your purring to let me know you were happy."
Gaius smiled, his eyes going heavy-lidded from the caress of Regulus' hand. Of course Regulus was just teasing him, reminding him of how it had been when he had been Anubis, but the effect on his human body was far, far more potent than it had been when he had been in cat form. But he purred anyway, a low rumble in his chest. "You continue to spoil me, and it still makes me happy," he murmured. "See, didn't I tell you that you knew me well?"
"Not as well as I would like to know you," Regulus replied, the words slipping out before he could censor them, and he hoped Gaius would assume he was referring to friendship and not read too much into it; it wouldn't do to blow his cover so soon. "Of course, you have an advantage in knowing me," he added quickly to cover his misstep. "As a fellow hedonist, I have a good idea of what will please you, and I understand your needs. I hope your man will understand you half so well."
Regulus' words caused Gaius a flutter of surprise, and he only hoped that the unconscious thought meant that Regulus might be starting to think of him as more than a friend. He longed to ask, but he couldn't, and part of him was starting to get impatient with his own charade. "I do, too," he said. "Although even if he understands my needs, it doesn't mean he will be anxious to fulfill them, or not all of them. It is possible he might only wish to be my friend and not want to move into the kind of relationship I want."
"That is certainly a possibility," Regulus said, nodding - and secretly hoping it turned out to be the case. "Or you might realize he isn't The One after all. You might find someone else better." It was, he knew, dangerous to push like this, but here under the stars with Gaius in his arms, it was difficult to think of strategy over sex.
Gaius bit his lip. He wanted to blurt everything out, to lay his heart on the line and throw himself on Regulus' mercy, begging Regulus to be with him. The words were there, trembling on his tongue, the temptation to utter them almost overwhelming. "Anything is possible," he said slowly, his eyes searching Regulus' face, wondering if Regulus could possibly mean himself. "But I'll never know unless I try, right? Although it's hard, wondering if he'll crush me or laugh at me."
"If he laughs, then he doesn't deserve you," Regulus said. He stopped dancing and lifted his hand to cup Gaius' cheek. "If he has any sense whatsoever, he will recognize your worth and sweep you off your feet immediately and carry you off somewhere he can begin spoiling you until you are worse than Severus."
"That would take some pretty intense spoiling," Gaius said, holding himself in check by sheer force of will. He couldn't risk it, not yet, not when he might drive Regulus away for good by acting too soon. Things were better, but he wanted so much more than friendship, and he was afraid that Regulus would balk unless he came to the conclusion he wanted the same all on his own. "I don't know if anyone is capable of that much spoiling!"
"At the very least, it would be a challenge for them to make the attempt," Regulus said lightly, stroking Gaius' cheek gently with his thumb before lowering his hand once more. "It is no more than you should expect, and if your man is not capable of it, then he is not the one you should be with."
Swallowing hard, Gaius nodded, feeling a loss as Regulus dropped his hand. "You deserve someone to spoil you, as well," he said, deciding to turn the tables a bit, to let Regulus see that he was capable of giving love and pleasure as well as receiving it. "Someone to hold you close and care for you, to admire your beauty and give you pleasure. I know you had said that you weren't thinking of a physical relationship, and you have no interest in one, but I hope that being around Serenus and Tybalt has changed your mind."
"To be honest, it is rather difficult to live with those two and maintain disinterest," Regulus admitted ruefully. "Not that I desire either one of them, but the intensity and physicality of their relationship does have a way of... bringing things out of dormancy."
Now that sounded promising, and Gaius' eyes sparkled with wicked glee. He was also happy that Regulus wasn't interested in Serenus or Tybalt, and he couldn't help lowering a hand to grope Regulus' arse playfully - although in his case, it wasn't quite as playful as it seemed. "Is that so?" he asked, with an exaggerated leer. "It's about time! You can't be a proper hedonist unless you want to shagsomeone's brains out!"
The groping inflamed the faint embers of Regulus' libido, making it spark and flare; his eyes darkened, and his voice turned low and husky when he replied. "I do not think that will be a problem, if the opportunity arises," he said, fixing Gaius with an intent gaze.
Gaius licked his lips, visions of stripping his robe over his head and offering himself up on the cushions dancing through his mind. There was something in Regulus' eyes, something deep and dark, and he longed to find out what it was and what thoughts were hiding behind them. "Opportunity?" he asked, inclining his head to one side. "So you will wait for a lover to find you, rather than going out and pursuing whomever it is you want?"
"Not necessarily," Regulus replied with studied casualness. "I have only just realized there was hope for my interest to rise like a phoenix from what I thought were dead ashes. I have not yet thought ahead to acting on my renewed interest." That was an outright lie, but he didn't want to let Gaius know where his interest lay in case Gaius either figured out the truth or took it the wrong way and assumed Regulus was interested in someone else, thus leaving the field clear for That Man. "Soon, perhaps."
Disappointment was like a toothache, but Gaius smiled and nodded. It was true, Regulus hadn't had much time, and really, he was doing splendidly for the short time he'd been living with Tybalt and Serenus. "I hope so," he murmured, moving his hand from Regulus' arse to his hip and squeezing lightly. "Sex is wonderful in and of itself, but with the right person, it's perfect. I suspect it might be just what you need to complete your healing."
"Serenus and Tybalt certainly seem to think so," Regulus said, inclining his head slightly, his expression amused as he remembered all the talks he had received about sex and romance over the past few weeks. "At this point, I am not inclined to disagree with them. I want to find the right person," he said softly, gazing steadily at Gaius. He even knew who that right person could be, but he couldn't say so aloud.
"I want you to find him, too. Or her," Gaius amended quickly, giving a rather breathless chuckle. He didn't like the thought of Regulus with anyone except him, but he couldn't say that yet. "I forget sometimes that you're not as unremittingly set on men as I am. I've never had the slightest bit of interest in women, although, unlike Severus, I'm not keen on dressing like one, either."
"Nor am I," Regulus said, chuckling. "Nor am I particularly interested in my partner dressing up in that way either. It would be an interesting novelty should he wish to do it, but it isn't one of my particular kinks," he added with a wicked quirk of his lips. "My preferences used to be more flexible than they are now. Since Bellatrix, I find I am not as attracted to women as I once was. I also cannot bear to think of being tied up, which is unfortunate because I used to enjoy such games."
Gaius winced in sympathy, understanding how Regulus must feel after what he had suffered at Bellatrix's hands. "That makes sense, given what you went through, and it seems like it was close to putting you off everyone, not just females - a fact I'm glad is changing. But it is a pity that she has taken away so much from you. But if you cannot bear to be tied up, perhaps your partner would be willing to let you tie him up. I'm rather fond of that myself; such games don't necessarily demand reciprocity, after all."
Images of Gaius naked and bound rose up in Regulus' mind, and he felt a bloom of heat kindle within him at the mere thought. "Perhaps so," he said huskily. "Certainly I shall ask if it is a possibility. There is little I like better than seeing my partner bound, unable to do anything but writhe and beg while I do as I please and drive them to unthinking madness at my leisure."
It was suddenly very hard for Gaius to breathe, the picture Regulus' words conjured up in his mind so vivid that it made him feel giddy and lightheaded. He wanted to be that partner, tied up and at Regulus' mercy, the two of them spending hours in bed while Regulus did his best to drive him mad. "Any man would be insane to deny you - or himself - that kind of pleasure," he said huskily, his eyes dark and his face flushed. "I only hope that the man I'm interested in would be willing to do as much for me."
"If he does not, you are better off without him." Regulus clasped Gaius' hand and twined their fingers, squeezing gently. Much more of this conversation, and he would not be able to keep from acting prematurely, thus he thought perhaps a distraction was in order. "Shall we take a walk among the ruins? We can stay out here all night, if you like. Tomorrow, we return to Cairo for shopping and then onward toLuxor."
Gaius returned the pressure of Regulus' fingers, smiling widely. "I'd like that, very much," he said eagerly. Perhaps if Regulus found it easy enough to spend all night with him this way, it might lead to other, more intimate nights together in the future. "This has been an incredible adventure; I can't begin to thank you enough for inviting me to Egypt and bringing me here. I can't think of anywhere I'd rather be." Or anyone else I'd rather be with.
"Neither can I," Regulus said as he led Gaius toward the ruined temple, finding peace and contentment out there in the middle of nowhere with Gaius by his side. He wanted more nights - more adventures - like this one, and if he was lucky, he might have them.