There was always the opportunity of a second-wind after everyone’s acts were done for the night and things breathed that unwinding calm. But the bombastic energy, the excitement could still linger - like fireflies meandering in the night air. Alec aka “Corvus - the Human Lie Detector” had tidied his act space, unrolled his sleeves, and pulled on his coat before heading into the night to move about the grounds.
The telepath walked his usual path along the big top and soon found himself strolling down the midway. Alec softly began to let his mind wander off as he heard fewer thoughts from the visitors and the cacophony lessened. Then he blinked as he saw someone he was sure was a semi-recent addition to the cirque - Ross the Fire Breather.
Alec thought he’d seen him getting settled in the staff area. He couldn’t miss that red hair. “Hello. How was your show?”
—
“Ah, bonjour.”
Those dark browns would fix upon Alec, pausing to study the other man for a moment. Upon first glance one wouldn’t suspect that either of them would be anything out of the ordinary - average height, normal appearance, the ability to blend in. But beneath the hair, the skin, the charm, lay special abilities that no human should ever be burdened with. “It was fine. Et toi?” Ross didn’t know all of the acts but he did try to stop in and watch everyone if only to better understand how his circus mates worked their craft. While he stayed in the Midway on most nights - and steered clear of the Big Top - it wasn’t uncommon for him to drift into the shadows of the Freakshow.
“Did anyone get the better of you?” Doubtful. Alec had a knack for sussing out fibs and untruths, but then that was his act. Breathing fire was more skill and show, but what Alec did in his show took more mental prowess and less flash bang.
Few people Ross got close to. A handful of friends, and many more acquaintances. He had trouble getting close to anyone even if he didn’t mean to. Trust could be a challenge in some circumstances.
In the interest of not scaring the guy off, Ross held up a small bag of popcorn and extended it toward Alec. A peace offering? A preemptive apology? Maybe a lot of different things.
—
“Bonjour,” Alec echoed as he looked at Ross. He knew of most of the circus performers - but only on the surface for many. Having boundaries was good and developing trust were good. The circus was a good place for those with abilities seen as fantastical or dangerous. “Good. It was good,” he nodded And it was understandable that Alec was most nested, nurtured among his fellow Freak Show members.
A charming grin spread across Alec’s lips and a light flickered in his eyes to Ross’s question. “Not one.” Alec always felt a sense of accomplishment and amusement when he could get through a day/night of his act without using his telepathic ability. The years of studying and learning how to read people were perfect and safeguarding. But Alec saw an ability like Ross’s as mesmerizing and thrilling.
“How many gasps did you get?” Reaction, feedback was something many wanted aside from the sheer satisfaction of performing. Alec had some friends here, but he was not a nosy sort. The circus was its own society, town.
It would take a lot more to scare Alec off. His freak show family member, Lamb, held that title. “Thank you,” he nodded and gently took a small handful. “Still nice and warm.” Alec’s smile was just as warm.
—
“That is good then.”
When an act went well, you knew that not only would the cirque be pleased but the audience also would be. There wasn’t anything he could compare to the feeling of coasting on the coattails of a perfect show. With what Alec could do, Ross had a feeling the man had many a trick up his sleeve to wow the audience. You didn’t need acrobatics or props to excel at detecting falsities for a sizable group.
He didn’t claim to be any better or worse in what he did during a performance. As long as the spectators were getting their thrill he could be satisfied. “Ah, many. That is usually how my shows go.” Once in a while you had someone who didn’t believe, someone who felt like they could debunk your credibility or try to find a way to insert a falsity, but lately that hadn’t been the case.
Ross was known to have a bit of a temper. Perhaps being a hothead was an appropriate label with all things considered. “Mm, it is best when it is warm,” Ross agreed, helping himself to the treat. Usually he was ravenous after a performance but he rarely let himself overindulge, preferring to snack alone. But sharing wasn’t terrible.
—
“It is. ‘Had one person really jarred by it and was throwing ‘Sherlock Holmes’ at me.”
It happened ever so often that people started talking about his act, spreading it like wildfire outside of the circus and in the world. It just made Alec feel more confident and on the precipice of cocky. There were other observations he had taken to pay attention to that wowed his audience. Acrobatics and slight of hand could easily distract and entertain when Alec simply stood or walked about his space. There were skeptics, but thankfully few who became volatile.
“Good, good. I love the wonder and awe the audience can have when they experience something so new and wonderful.”
Alec could have been frustrated by those in the audience who took offense at being proved as liars or having the telepath uncover something someone was concealing. But it was never something like their sexual orientation or something so deeply personal if not already out. “Definitely.” Alec nodded and took another small handful. “Did you move into that trailer?” he asked and gestured to the newly placed trailer beside Alec’s boxy-looking tiny home.
—
Listening, Ross chewed his popcorn and nodded. Sometimes even the experts could get shaken up. He got that way, too. But then, unlike a lot of people here, he didn’t have the best reign on his abilities all the time. It could be a dangerous hit or miss if he lost focus. Thankfully nobody had gotten hurt but that didn’t stop the guilt of the hypotheticals he let haunt him.
“That is why we perform, non?” For the thrill of the crowd. The heightened sense of accomplishment in knowing that you rocked someone’s world just by being yourself. On stage he didn’t have to pretend to be someone he wasn’t. In front of a crowd he could be bold and heated, moody, temperamental, and never be judged for playing with fire. As soon as he wandered off of that stage the shackles of reservation clicked around those limber wrists and he felt burdened again.
Brown eyes swiveled in the direction of the place where their lodging stood, and after a moment to assess, Ross gave a nod. “Mm. The new has worn off by now,” he murmured, fixing his gaze upon Alec again. “But I will always be grateful for it.” And the updates his friend Phil had graciously advised that he add.
—
It was more the exhaustion or just bad days that put Alec off his focus, his reign on things. It was never a good idea to delve too far into an audience member to pluck things. Telepathy had its bad connotations. Oftentimes Alec worried the audience would pass him by for one of the more flashy freaks.
“Oui,” Alec nodded. He had witnessed his mother’s gift many times be welcomed with good responses but also horrified by bad ones. Guarded discretion - Alec knew to exercise such caution both on and off stage. And he rarely communicated his thoughts into another’s mind. Boundaries, permission. The cirque was a safe space for them all but within reason. “We’re safe here.”
“Mmm. But it still looks nice. I’m next door,” Alec nodded and gestured to his home before nibbling on the last few popcorn kernels he had in his hand. His own home was an investment, but he loved it.
—
“I did not know that you were so fluent in my language,” Ross teased, offering the other man a playful wink. It always surprised him the level of skill that any one individual could possess under the radar. And, he took joy in knowing there were so many he could converse with in a language that felt like breathing as opposed to the default of English. “And I would not be here if I did not feel safe.” That was a big deal for him. Stability, security. His life had been without those things for so long and here he almost didn’t know what to do with himself.
Chuckling softly, Ross nudged at Alec with an elbow, “ah, so it is you who makes the view so nice in the mornings.” Well, at night anyway. While sometimes he got up during the day the people here tended to be more on the side of night owls and he followed that same pattern.
Cirque took care of everyone and Ross was grateful. This was really the first real home that he’d had since before that fateful day.
——
Alec bowed his head and smiled deeply at the tease before lifting his chin to look Ross in the eyes and catch that wink. “Just enough to win points. But maybe you could teach me more?” He winked back. The telepath was often a sponge, eager to learn. “That is good. Sometimes things can feel a little bumpy when getting used to a new place.” Alec was adaptable, finding ways to function and handle situations.
“Oh?” Alec smiled and leaned into that nudge. “Nice view. Are you sure you could see my best features from so far away?” He nudged back. He was usually one of those night owls, but if one of his freakshow mates wanted someone to go with them during the day, he would with coffee in hand.
Even with the distance from his mother and the community she settled in, Alec had grown to love his cirque home.
—
“I would be glad to.” Ross bit back a small addition nearly uttered in favor of not embarrassing the other man too much. “It did take some getting used to, but that is okay. I am learning something new every day.” Species, lore, how not to get killed. Hopefully. Each rise of the moon sparked something exciting and he rose to uncover it.
Ross just chuckled. “My eyes are not so good,” he admitted, “but maybe the view just needs to move closer so as to be better seen.” There was never an obligation at all. He was trying to do his best to make sure the air stayed light between them. And what was a bit of harmless flirting?
Like Alec, Ross would roll out of bed early for the right person. “Did you have plans for the rest of your evening?” He didn’t, not really, but maybe one of them would have something interesting going on.
—
He hadn’t had too many audience members who primarily spoke anything other than English, but knowing another language could help. Then he quieted, listening to what Ross said and more so what the redhead didn’t say.
“Mmm, maybe it does. Just start walking over to my door and I’ll know you’re there.” He flirted back. He loved the lightness between them. Alec often welcomed the possibility of good things. But he was cautious and tried not to tread too far, too fast with anyone.
At this time of night, Alec was starting to wind down, but he could feel the hint of that second wind that was the bit of rush following a good night of his stage time. “Nothing yet. You?
—
That was the second invitation to haunt a threshold in a couple of weeks. Maybe his luck was starting to change. Doubtful. Once Alec and everyone else realized what a ’…monster. he will think I’m a…’ “I’ll do my best not to show up with tea when you are awake.” Maybe Alec would get a show, too. Maybe not. That would depend on how things were going.
Ross shook his head. “No plans.” The last of the snack would be consumed and he balled up the paper. Before either of them could blink the wad of trash went up in flames and the ash fluttered into the wind like a smattering of weird glitter.
“But I am open to ideas.”
—
It wasn’t Alec’s practice to continually listen to a person’s thoughts unless his act or the unfamiliar situation called for it. But he couldn’t when heard what Ross just thought of himself. It was a familiar thought he had of himself before. “I’ll keep my window uncovered so you can see when I am.”
His eyes widened as he watched Ross send the paper go up in a beautiful display of fire and embers. “Beautiful,” Alec smiled as he looked over at the other man. There was something about an ability that could be seen.
“Any ideas I should know of?” Alec asked as he stepped closer, lifting a hand to gently touch the one of Ross’s that sent up the flames.
—
“You are too kind,” Ross continued, indulging the little thing they were rolling between them. “I will return the favor.” Whatever was going on in his head wasn’t really for anyone else and yet he didn’t know to put barriers in place. Would he know how to if he had to? This was beginning to look like a blossoming friendship. How fortunate.
With a look of humble amusement, Ross nodded. “Oui. You are.” And then he surrendered his limb to the curiosity for the sake of letting it flourish.
“Non. Usually about this time I go back to my trailer. Not usually with company. Eh….would you like to come in for tea?”
—
Alec’s smile deepened as he liked this sort of cheerful discourse they were having. “Equally kind.” He mentally retreated a bit, but still hated that his new friend was so hard on himself. It was something he had seen among a few others, but the poor self-thoughts often faded away the more one was a part of the cirque.
Shaking his head, he bit on his lower lip. “Mmm, exaggeration.” Yet he gently took Ross’s hand and carefully ran a finger over the unmarked palm. After a moment, Alec let go of his friend’s hand.
“I see,” Alec looked up. “I would like that. Can’t’ say ‘no’ to tea.” He smiled.
—
“You say that now,” Ross countered. Just wait until Alec fell privy to the other side that wasn’t so nice. He hoped that the other man was spared that view, prayed. Nothing he did could save anyone from those other sides and that was the risk he knew he had to take. It was that, or isolate and he couldn’t thrive that way. “Tell me again later.” His smile stayed playful, casual, and Alec could make his mind up on how to take those words.
“Non. I am not a liar, mon ami,” shaking his head he hoped to hone the point. “I call things the way that I see them.” If one of them had to be lovely, Ross hoped that it would be Alec. “And I have no reason to mislead you, either.” What was there to gain? To lose?
The limb lingered in Alec’s delicate grasp until the other was done and then that same hand would shift toward the threshold of the nearby doorway. “Then let me make you some.”
A few steps would bring them to that door, across the threshold, and into the small yet warm space. Muted, rustic shapes and colors made up a lot of what Ross’ trailer boasted. The only thing perhaps out of place was the blanket ‘thrown’ over the length of the couch that added a pop of color. Phin had helped him choose it. “Make yourself at home “
—
Curious. Alec did take those words into his mind to mull over. What people said often were just as telling as what they didn’t and what their body said. He had his own other side that branched into another. But the telepath had never let the part of him out that wanted control, to peel away the layers of someone because he could and wanted to return hurt. No. “I will.” He smiled back. Curiosity was dangerous.
“I know, I know.” He continued to smile. “No reason at all. I can hear it in your voice.” Honesty. “You should see yourself though. Amazing.” Alec was better at giving than taking compliments.
It was always amazing to see how those gifted with such flashy abilities came out physically unscathed. But Alec wondered if it was exhausting like his. “Good, good. I promise to bring biscuits next time.” If there was a next time.
Alec quietly followed, gazing at the new surroundings but keeping his attention on his host. He nodded and kept his arms close to himself as he stepped over to the couch. “It’s a beautiful home, Ross.” He gently sat down and breathed.
—
Ross gave a smile as Alec seemed to let something click into place. He didn’t pry, there wasn’t a need, and he hoped Alec would let him know if he changed his mind. Honesty, while brutal and challenging, was hard to hear but always the best way to go. Curiosity was dangerous but so was life, risk. And when you had nothing to lose, the ante was higher that you’d take the chance.
With a chuckle, his head shook. “Merci, you are far too kind.” Ross knew he looked good. He was one who took care of themselves and had pride in it. It helped that he was fit because that just added to the lucrative appeal for the show. Attraction in an attraction.
“Don’t spoil me.” Biscuits and a chance to visit with Alec? The poor telepath was going to have a hard time getting rid of him at this rate.
“Ah, thank you. It has had some recent additions.” Out of his boots and his coat, Ross tucked those into place and then he was peeling out of his shirt. He left it in a pile on the floor, leaving himself in a black tank top as his feet carried him into the kitchen. The inside of the place was warm mostly for anyone who wanted to stop by.
—
Why burden someone with his own challenges? Alec didn’t need to scare Ross away so soon. Maybe if the next little while went well. He did feel for his fiery new friend. Feeling so much for people often sent the telepath down the path of neglecting his own wants and needs. But he did want to open up. In time.
“Speaking the truth.” Alec grinned. He tried to take care of himself, but was certainly not as well-featured as Ross. His own act was more of the mind than the physical.
“Why not?” He smirked and shook his head. Sometimes it was good to spoil people. There were worse things to spoil one with.
Settling a little more, Alec peeled off his dress jacket as he tried to not gawk at Ross’s disrobing to a degree. So handsome. “It suits you. Tell me more. What is your favorite act in the cirque,”
—
“Besides my own?”
Ross’ lips twisted up into a smirk as his hands busied themselves with the careful preparation that went into making tea. The kettle would be set on the burner to begin its percolation, and then he left it to its task. “Ah….hmm….that is a hard question.” It took the time to cross the floor from the kitchen to the sitting area for him to decide upon an answer.
“I think I am fond of the animal acts. I know they are in the Big Top, but the majesty of the lions….” It was really something to behold. Sometimes he wished that he was a large beast, an apex predator with no worries or cares. It seemed like an easier life than being a human. “What about you?”
Without the distractions from the world outside, he was able to give Alec his full attention which was what the other man deserved.
—
Nodding, Alec smiled.
“I know. It’s like choosing your favorite star in the night sky.” He continued to watch his host, observing rather than assessing. Seeing how someone went about in the kitchen was lovely. And noticing how they were in the safety of their own home was calming. A smile continued to tug at his lips as he was joined in the sitting area.
“Mmm, good choice. The lions are lovely. Someday I wish I could see them freely walk the midway, but alas - safety.” Being able to move about and be admired for speaking with one’s form sounded like a breath of free air. “The Midway most days. But I do like Délire.” The more-leisurely interaction of people was much more than deliberate performance some days.
Alec could see how Ross was paying full attention to him. Good. “When we get to a warmer time of the year and place - the nights have a different feel to them.”
—
“Would that not be something to behold?” The idea that large cats could openly roam the midway, interact with guests and add to the mystical charm of the already amazing circus ambiance was a dream, but a good one that they apparently shared. “Mm. If only we were that fortunate.” Until then, they would have to fantasize. Or, find other things to bring into reality that were easier and less dangerous.
“Oui, Délire is also a favorite. You cannot beat the piano and the singing.” That was what had drawn him in the first place - the soft tones of coaxing voices harmonizing in perfect sync with the plinks of ivory and ebony. What a beautiful picture it painted. Ross could only hope to be so elevated but he wasn’t anywhere close to that.
Nodding, Ross smirked. “Ah, any night with me is warm, but I understand. The night, she carries herself differently when the fireflies play and the grass is soft.” Here it was covered in snow and while he appreciated the majesty that the blanket of white offered, he was partial to the warmer climates.
—
“Very much.” A light hit Alec’s eyes, loving how the both of them like the idea of such an awe-inspiring sight and experience. Taking in a deep breath, he rubbed the back of his neck. “If only.” Sometimes the dangerous things hid in plain sight. If only someone could create the illusion of a parade of big cats.
“I love the atmosphere. Some of the music just speaks to me.” Alec grinned and sighed. Music often eased his mind when the cacophony outside was deafening. But he often had to mind himself or the door he usually shut to keep others’ thoughts out teetered open.
He smiled. “Sounds nice. She does and the scent of honeysuckle on the breeze.” Alec could take in the calm of any season or weather. But for now, he rubbed his forehead as he realized he needed to shut that mental door. The silent whispers of other nearby were seeping in.
—-
Ross wasn’t well versed in all of the present and hidden abilities of those who worked alongside them. Had that idea been offered up, perhaps he would have suggested a network post to see if anyone would be so bold. Surely there would be a taker, someone who would want to fill a dream did a beautiful mind. But alas, they would both dream the same dream together but separately.
“Music has a way of twisting itself up into the spaces in our souls without us knowing.” Those brown eyes would cast down but his smile didn’t change. “Sometimes I am moved in ways that I cannot describe…eh…” he struggled to convey what he wanted, lifting his chin and then setting a hand over his chest where his heart was. “In here. Oui?” Did Alec understand the choppy and mutilated transfer of words?
Amused that Alec seemed to be on the same page, Ross nodded. “We seem to have a lot of things in common.” If only in the atmosphere, anyway. “It is nice for a change, to be understood.”
—
Alec didn’t think there was anyone who could make it possible. Maybe someone with illusions or a telepathic ability much more sophisticated. He often wondered if he could develop new abilities related to his gift. Best not to worry about it now. Rather continue to dream.
“Yeah,” he smiled, his voice a little breathless. Music was such a lifeline for Alec. He nodded at Ross, acknowledging his friend’s words. “Yes, definitely. Something so ethereal but also potent.” The telepath understood and felt the same way.
Alec smiled and nodded. “We do. Yes, yes, it is.” Tilting his chin upward, the telepath sighed. “You’re safe here and we can talk about music and find other common interests.”
—
Relief flooded into his features at being understood so easily. Not many could decipher him when he couldn’t find the words but leave it to a telepath to be able to dive in deep. “Yes, that is it exactly.”
“I appreciate that.” Before he could indulge, though, a whistle came from the kitchen. “Ah, excuse me.” Ross was up and socked feet would retrace steps for the kitchen. The next few moments would be spent in preparation for their tea and he returned with a tray filled with two cups and the things one might need for theirs.
“Here,” he sat down carefully and placed the tray on the table in front of them so they could reach it. “Tea for you, Mon Ami.”
—
Alec could see Ross’s relief. Thank goodness. He was happy he could use what he knew in more heartwarming and friendly waves. “Listening to music while relaxing without any other stimuli is magical.”
About to reach out for him, he stilled as the whistle sounded and Ross left. He was very much attracted to the fire artist. Alec breathed deeply as he waited and watched his new friend from a distance. His smile returned as watched Ross return and the sight of the tray of cups and items. It was so nice.
He wasn’t going to let the tea go cold and he nodded as he reached forward for a cup and the sugar bowl. “I hope I’m saying it correctly, uhm, merci beaucoup.” Alec was a good listener, often being around different cultures and languages when he helped his mother with her mediumship and the last five years in the cirque.
—
Music could be a wonderful thing in doses. It wasn’t his favorite all the time, sometimes he needed the quiet and silence, but when he was in the right mood he was eager to hear a good tune and would go out of his way to do so. “That is the thing about this place, non? It is magic.” You couldn’t escape it either.
When the French tumbled from Alec’s pliant lips, Ross grinned. “Ah!” He remarked, brows arched and a smile on his face that widened more, “je vous en prie! You said that very well! I am impressed.” Many at the cirque could speak his native tongue and it always impressed him who knew the language unsuspecting.
He sipped carefully from the teacup. The flavor washed across his tongue like a magic of its own. “This flavor is good. It is not my usual one. I…err…ah…wanted to try something special. With you.” Usually he was reaching for the cinnamon and cardamom that he’d shared with Phin, but this time he’d brewed them a vanilla and chamomile concoction.
—
Alec would agree. Sometimes the quiet was better and even just the wind could be so wonderful. And yet the ticking of a clock could be so harsh. “It is. Magic everywhere and hidden too.”
Then he paused as he watched Ross grin, brows, and that grin turn into a smile. “Thanks! Was that ‘you’re welcome’?” Alec asked honestly. He truly didn’t know a lot of French. But he tried to learn a few more languages. “I usually don’t have anyone to use it with.”
Deciding against going for the sugar bowl yet, Alec held his teacup carefully and breathed in the flavor. “Still quite kind. I like it,” he nodded before closing his eyes as he sipped. “Mmm, I like it.” Slowly opening his eyes, he sighed. “Is tea your favorite drink?” His warm brown eyes stayed with Ross’s as he spoke.
—
Ross nodded. “Oui. It was! And you said it so beautifully.” The previous utterance of French, anyway. “Your accent is good. I will talk to you if you want.” Anyone who wanted to learn his native tongue was good by him. He didn’t mind teaching Alec to speak French, even only conversationally. It meant a lot to him that the other man even wanted to try.
“I am glad.” His frame prickled with delight. He was so glad that Alec was enjoying the brew, and he felt confident with the swap from the usual tea he made. “It is. I do not drink a lot of coffee…eh, it is not terrible, but I like this more.” Tea. Definitely preferred.
“Do you prefer tea?” He realized that he didn’t know a lot about Alec but each thing he did glean made him feel closer to the telepath.
—
Alec shook his head and grinned. “Good, good. I’ve been repeating it in my head hoping I got the ‘beaucoup’ right.” More color reached his cheeks. “Thanks. Yes, please.” The more the better and if they wanted to speak to each other outside the range of the non-French speakers. Alec was up for learning new things.
Holding the teacup carefully and relishing the warmth, he sighed and sipped a little more slowly to enjoy it. “Tea is quite refreshing and warms in a way like music does, at least that is my thought.” He could hear Ross’s delight in the tone of his voice and he loved it too, like music.
“I think so most days. It has more character than coffee.” Alec smirked and leaned towards his new friend. “It doesn’t stain your breath like coffee. Oui?” Damn the fire breather was so handsome in this casual and yet intimate conversation.
—
Teaching Alec how to speak French gave Ross something to look forward to other than practice or brooding. The other man was soon to be a light spot in his dark world and Ross couldn’t be more thankful for it. It gave him a sense of purpose he didn’t get in many other places and that was something that he could never truly repay Alec for.
Nodding, he helped himself to another sip. “Oui. I find that it spreads through my body like a warm blanket.” He didn’t get that same comfort from coffee. The burst of energy was nice but it faded away with the warmth.
Ross laughed softly, a wholesome and amused sound, “Ah. Oui. You are right. I do not care much for smelling like coffee when I am speaking with someone.” And tea just didn’t leave that mark.
—
Alec would like to help Ross in any way he could. If he knew that his friend needed hope, happiness, kindness, he would give it. But since he heard the word ‘monster’ in his mind, the telepath backed off from listening to the fire breather’s thoughts.
“Exactly,” he grinned. “Much more of a therapeutic sort of drink.” Alec did drink coffee when he was busy. But he did love tea. Something so homemade that wasn’t burnt or overcooked. It was wonderful. Alec sipped some more, letting it coat the inside of his mouth before swallowing.
Setting his cup down, Alec sighed with a warm smile at Ross’s laughter. So beautiful. Then he leaned in a little more and took a chance by gently kissing his friend on the lips.
—
That was the thing. Ross would never openly ask for help, mostly because he didn’t feel as if he deserved it. He had been unable to help, and thus help was not something he was worthy of. When came to self care, he had no confidence for it. And relying on someone else just seemed wrong, so he floated through his life always on the edge of something but not quite leaning one way or the other.
Ross nodded. He felt the same way. Tea had so many amazing qualities about it - there were far too many to name and likely more that he was forgetting.
What was it about the proximity and tea that made the moment intimate? He hadn’t been expecting that pressure, even if his desire had bubbled up like a percolating kettle and he’d thought about what his friend tasted like. Eyes closed for a second, those plump bows separated to let the edge of his tongue slide out in an effort to memorize the line of Alec’s bottom lip, before Ross broke the connection with a soft breath. With those earth brows fluttering open, he set his cup down so he wouldn’t risk upturning it, and then those empty palms would catch Alec by the jaw to pull his friend back in again.
—
And again if Alec knew how low Ross’s sense of self-worth was, the telepath would shower him with kind words and boost his confidence. Alec was a giver, coming by it honestly by his mother’s giving gift and nature. But it had to be tempered. Maybe if their friendship and trust grew to a point, Alec would see and help him.
When the mind needed to unwind, Alec often watched as the tea stepped in the water of a clear glass kettle or glass cup. He found the silent observation soothing.
Hushed conversations, intrigue. Alec just loved how much care was taken into making tea. The intimacy was just there. The telepath couldn’t help but be attracted to both Ross’s physicality and his beautifully curious nature. Feeling that tongue, Alec began to part his lips and did close his own eyes. But the break in connection had him opening his eyes in fear that he had offended his friend in some way. Alec smiled as he watched him empty those hands and let out a relieved sigh as those warm palms caught his face and pulled him back in.
Alec let out a soft and happy moan against Ross’s lips before parting his own and closing his eyes. His mildly calloused hands reached in to cup the side of Ross’s face, brushing his thumb along the fire breather’s cheek bone, and rest over Ross’s heart.
—
This was not the first time he’d given into temptation - being lonely had a way of making you ravenous for physical contact - and he didn’t think it would be the last. That wasn’t to say that he did this with just anyone who batted their lashes at him or offered up kind words. He felt a pull toward Alec, a draw, and he found himself helpless to it. Especially when those muted sounds were tumbling into his skin and those palms were finding purchase on his frame.
The edge of a thumb would card delicately along the hard line of Alec’s jaw. Lips moved, parted, and his tongue slithered out again to dip into that taste - a unique blend of its own silently sipped and shared like nectar from a flower.
Chest puffed up, pressing gently against the warmth settled there. And after a few moments of raw devouring, Ross once more drew back to catch his breath. Long pulls of air would fill his lungs but he didn’t go far, allowing the end of his nose to brush tenderly against the side of Alec’s.
“Would it be wrong to tell you that I want you?” Words were soft, etched in a delicate lace of French, burning with a heat all of their own. He could feel a tightening down below, a yearning for a satisfaction that he could only get from Alec.
—
There may have been a couple times in the last five years when Alec gave in for the physical contact, the rush of it all, but oftentimes quite brief. He didn’t use his ability to read someone’s mind to get into their pants. And he didn’t let every person who expressed interest in him. There was something here - the curiosity, openness that struck him. And he wanted more if the feeling was mutual.
Those warm hands holding his face, tracing his jaw had him enthralled and turned on more and more. Loosening his jaw, Alec loved each taste and welcomed each sensation and fought not to draw Ross’s lower lip between his teeth.
His fingertips pressed gently through Ross’s tank top as he felt that puffing up. Touch, contact was everything. His tongue slipped out to brush against his friend’s lips as he felt him draw back and then retreated to take in a few breaths as well. He relished the moment as he felt Ross’s nose brush against the side of his and soon returned the tender gesture.
“Non.” Alec whispered, matching the softness but had a slight gravel to his breath to communicate his own desire that was building in his trousers. “I want you too.”
—
That confirmation was what he needed. Hands would slip up to rest on Alec’s shoulders and Ross twisted, sliding himself into the other man’s lap. Knees would press into the soft cushion of the couch, and his hips immediately ground down in a slow roll. “Good.” He didn’t care where they did it; would they make it to the back bedroom where the softness took up nearly the entire space and would give them ample room, would they get as far as the kitchen, christening the rug laying over the laminate or one of the many flat surfaces along the way. Or, would his poor couch be the host?
Lips would find swaths of skin to devour: jaw, neck. Ross left small markings where he went and then pressed a kiss against the shell of Alec’s ear, depositing a murmur of French that you wouldn’t utter aloud in public. Tongue and teeth would taunt the sensitive lobe, and Ross suckled the skin.
A hand would slip into those curls. His hips continued that agonizingly slow gyration, wanting to work Alec up to a breaking point. “Fuck me.” There was a measure of desperation in his soft tone, an ache that could only be satisfied by his neighbor.
—
Ross climbing onto his lap made Alec groan. His hands immediately went to the other man’s hips, fingertips moving to push up the bottom of the fire breather’s tank top. “Good.” Alec echoed. Just how far would they make it would depend on just how fired up he got. He was already getting there with those strong but slow grinding down on him. And the details from now til he was inside him ticked at his mind as he shut the ‘door’ to anyone else’s thoughts.
Alec was feeling the heat rise each time Ross’s lips made purchase. His hands moved cup his lover’s cloth-covered ass, squeezing a little as he lifted his hips to meet the next roll. He wanted to reply to that murmur of French, but lacked the vocabulary and moaned softly instead against Ross’s hair. He was definitely getting to that point.
“Not here,” he moaned, “Too much clothes.” Alec turned and bowed his head to press a hard kiss to the place where Ross’s right shoulder met his neck. Then he let go of the other man’s ass to slip his hands between their bodies and begin unfastening Ross’s pants.
—
That was the problem. Too many clothes. A soft huff would settle between them and Ross drew back long enough to find his way out of that tank top. Where the fabric made its new home was beyond him, but now he was warm flesh and ink, welcoming those strong, calloused hands to claim. Ross tipped his head to allow that eager mouth as much space to nibble and devour as it wanted along the curve. “Oui.” The word came out choked, in nearly a beg. Finger slipped back into those curls to grab, tease, until he could take no more of this casual teasing,
“Come with me,” he beckoned in a low tone. “Claim me. Make me yours.” Leaning into those fingers at the button of his jeans, Ross waited until they’d unlatched the barrier and the fabric separated before he pulled back to stand up. An easy shimmy of his hips would allow the denim to pool around his feet and be shuffled away, black spandex underpants barely concealing what lay just beyond.
A hand would extend. He intended to drag Alec into the bedroom and spread himself out for the other man, or get on his knees. Whatever his neighbor wanted.
—
And Alec would want to gaze at the inked skin, but right now there were more immediate wants and needs. Once that tank top was gone, he smiled and nuzzled that skin for a moment. It was getting so maddening with just touching, kissing, and grinding. “Oui,” he echoed against Ross’s flesh.
“Yes,” he groaned as he finished unzipping Ross’s fly. And as he was pulled up, Alec popped off his shoes and quickly got rid of his button down shirt, vest, trousers - leaving him in socks, a pair of black boxers, and a white tank top. “Damn,” he rasped at the sight of Ross and that was barely concealed.
Alec grabbed his neighbor’s hand, ready to hurry as the tightness in his boxers were becoming almost too much. “Take me there. I want to be inside you.” He groaned and leaned in to press a bruising kiss on his neighbor’s lips.
—
That little comment made Ross smirk. He felt a swoop of confidence and pride, knowing he looked good and that was all the more solidified with Alec’s utterance. Taut abs, creamy skin, and an unbridled excitement just waiting to be uncovered.
With a bit of a tease in the kiss they shared, Ross’ fingers clamped gently down upon Alec’s and soon bare feet would be padding softly along the narrowed length of the kitchen. It didn’t take long and he was tugging his neighbor into the small room that was mostly soft spaces.
Ross pivoted on the balls of his feet, hooking a finger into the elastic of Alec’s waistband. He tugged the other man in for a deep kiss, dipping his fingers down past the strip of boxers to find comfort in the warmth underneath the fabric. The prize there was what he was after, and he was too far gone to give up now.
——
Alec always admired those who were handsome, beautiful. And Ross had from the first time he ever saw him. He often wished to be as muscular as some of the other guys. But for now, he was as good as he was going to be. And he was thankful that Ross wanted him.
Then the telepath eagering followed his neighbor along the kitchen. His free hand playfully tugged at the elastic of Ross’s underwear. Alec momentarily took his eyes off the other man to glimpse at their destination.
Letting out a laugh against Ross’s lips, Alec let the kiss deepen. A groan echoed in his throat as he felt those hands find his almost-achingly hard member. His mildly calloused hands circled round to his neighbor’s ass and began to pull the tight black fabric down. Alec slowly rolled his hips to eagerly press against those fingers. “Turn around so I can get you ready,” he whispered against Ross’s lips as he broke the kiss.
—
Tongue pressed upon the top of his mouth as he obeyed. Warmth lingered on his lips, and he could taste Alec. Palms spread splayed over the blankets and he bent at the waist, casting a look over his shoulder. With a smirk, Ross wiggled that supple backside. “As you wish.” Beholding what he could of his neighbor, a groan slid out of his mouth. This was much better than a small view. He hoped they’d indulge again and again, as often as Alec wanted to.
Being whole, being complete, was something he was looking forward to. “Show me.” There was a fire in those brown eyes and then Ross turned his gaze upon the patterned blanket, waiting to see what Alec would do.
He surrendered to the mercy of his neighbor. A rigid organ began to leak fluid, excited and ready.
—
“So handsome.” Alec was vocal with compliments as he let go of his neighbor and watched him turn around. “Such teasing.” He winked as he carefully but impatiently slipped Ross’s underwear off and let it fall in a wrinkled tangle at the fire breather’s ankles. Teasing by pausing, he rid himself of his tank top and dropped it to the floor. The sight of Ross bent over in front of him, ass bare and those eyes watching him for a moment, had him beginning to drip inside his cotton boxers.
“Your wish, my command,” Alec smirked as he leaned over Ross and pressed a kiss to his spine. “Where are your supplies, good sir?” And the telepath shoved his boxers off and kicked them away gently.
—
It was easy to kick away that layer. One foot and then the other, then he was rid of the last layers and bare completely before Alec. “In the bedside drawer.” A little nightstand with a decorative lamp was what held the supplies that they would need. The press of lips on skin set a fire inside of his stomach, and he groaned. Alec was so gentle and considerate, Ross admired that.
A hand dipped down to card across his own firmed skin, curled fingers keeping the excitement flowing with each pump. Soft sounds tumbled out of pliant and kiss bruised lips.
And as soon as Alec touched him again he knew he was gone for the other man. The craving was overwhelming, he needed that claim and nothing was going to stop him from knowing his neighbor on an intimate level.
—
Nodding, Alec stepped over to the nightstand and pulled open the drawer. He snapped up a tube of lubricant and closed the drawer before returning to Ross. Sometimes the telepath could be very hasty when it came to sex, but with Ross he really did care more and wanted to be much more gentle. “So handsome.” Alec whispered and gently stroked his neighbor’s back.
Then he popped open the tube and slicked two of his fingers and carefully closed and set the tube beside Ross. Alec stepped closer, touched the fire breather’s hip, and began to stroke that puckered back open with lubricated fingertip. After a few circling strokes, he pressed the finger into his neighbor inch by inch and groaned to himself at his own length’s hardness.
—
As Alec stepped away, Ross climbed up onto the edge of the bed to make himself more comfortable. Knees pressed against the blankets, fingers curled into the fabric white knuckled as the motions of slickened digits began. Soft sounds tumbled from his lips and Ross arched backward into those eager fingers. He could feel himself relaxing, opening up and bracing for what would come next. He appreciated the gentle care that his neighbor was taking, too. Like Alec, Ross was eager to get to the point. A lot of that stemmed from that hot headed nature, being stubborn and unwilling to compromise.
Breathlessly, Ross worked on himself in slow strokes. The edge of his thumb would dip down into the sticky slit on the crown and once it collected the moisture, that digit would find its way in between his own lips.
—
Contact, touch, heated grappling, Alec bit back his eagerness as he listened to those soft sounds and watched Ross as he slowly added another lubed finger. No injury, perfection. His free hand stroked his neighbor’s hip and ran along his back. Alec was careful, loving, not impatient when he sometimes felt so hard and ready for his soon-to-be lover at the time.
Feeling Ross’s relaxing and opening up around his fingers, Alec hummed to himself and stilled for a moment, letting his fingers slip out of his neighbor. He stroked himself, spreading the remnants of the lubricant along his length and over his tip. Alec inched his stance closer, pressing his near erection along Ross's backside and leaned down over him for a moment. His lips pressed against the back of his neighbor’s neck and his hand rested on Ross’s bent knees. “Ready for me?” Alec whispered, tightening his jaw out of anticipation.
—
A breath hitched in his chest. “Always.” He was always ready to feel that fullness he chased. The sense of completeness, feeling useful and wanted, was one thing he needed all the time and never really let himself have. Ross leaned backward, gently against those lips. His skin warmed where Alec’s mouth touched it, and his organ twitched with the anticipation.
Playfully those hips shimmied, a silent encouragement for his neighbor to continue, to take what he wanted.
While he’d done this before, each person approached the act differently. Alec had passion, care and thoughtfulness, a tenderness that made him actually believe he was worth something while he was in that embrace and victim to that touch.
—
A grin spread across Alec’s face and he nodded. It would be a lie if he had said he hadn’t thought of being tangled up with the fire breather from the moment he first saw him. And now, he kept his own promise to not peek into his neighbor’s mind as intimate as they already were. IF knew about Ross’s low self-esteem, he would raise him up with tenderness and care.
“Mmm.” He hummed at the shimmy and eased back to stand, one hand on Ross’s hip and the other gripped his own length.
Without much more ado, Alec steadied and pressed himself into Ross. Groaning, he gripped his neighbor’s hips and slowly pressed further into him. “Ross,” Alec moaned. He loved how it felt to be inside the other man.
—
Gasping, Ross shuddered upon penetration. With a dropped jaw, he rocked back against the intrusion, feeling the firmness slide deep into him. “Alec.” A swath of French tumbled out of his mouth, fingers gripped at the sheets with white knuckles. This was the feeling he chased - that beautiful fullness, the idea that he was wanted. Each time he went through these motions he remembered what it tasted like to be craved. Alec was also gentle, tender, and he appreciated it.
Ross clamped himself down on his neighbor, gyrating slowly. He wanted to savor this, stock it up to use it again on the lonely nights when his bed was empty and the house was quiet.
He didn’t look to fall into the sheets with anyone but a playful coax and an invitation for tea had made him wealthier.
—
Alec had no eloquent words to express how good Ross felt. Lust, attraction, want, craving for this - he didn’t just fling himself at anyone. He did want all that the other man would give him. And he would give what Ross needed. There was something about him that drew him. Alec didn’t claim someone just to claim. He had too big of a heart for that.
A louder groan fell from his lips as his neighbor clamped on him. “Ross, mmmm.” Alec would remember the fire breather. If they weren’t in either of their houses together, he’d look over towards the window and remember. His thumbs stroked Ross’s hips encouragingly.
—
Eyes rolled up into the back of his skull as they moved together. Right then, in this moment, they were a single entity. One person. Where one man began and the other ended remained to be seen. All fluttered moans and shivers. There were things he didn’t dare to utter, things best saved for the one who had his heart, but he wanted to. He wanted to say them with hope and confidence. But he had fear bubbling up in his stomach which made him focus only on pleasing his neighbor.
He could live with the satisfaction of knowing that Alec would leave pleased. If his neighbor wanted to brave the chill after this heated moment that was fine. If he wanted to stay and roll out of bed in the morning, that was also okay. There wasn’t an obligation, and no claim outside of what was transpiring now.
“Yes…” a soft gasp, a sharp inhale. “Yes….” That felt so good. Waves of pleasure rolled through him and he could feel his muscles tightening.
—
To become one and yet be two. Beautifully together. Alec felt the muscles in his back tense and relax as he moved, pushing further into Ross until there was that rub. Breathing and groaning between hums. There was only his neighbor on his mind and on his lips. No need to rush words that could either doom or nurture their paperthin relationship. One step at a time and yes now a leap.
Alec often wanted to feel needed, wanted. And he wanted to give. Ross felt like such a kind and strong soul to him. So loving and he wanted to stay and soak up each touch his neighbor was willing to indulge after this steamy act. But if Ross wanted nothing else from him, the telepath would wipe up, get dressed, and leave.
“Ros, yes,” Alec panted as he moved - in and out - in a rhythm. Flesh against flesh. He gasped and sniffed loudly at the tightening around him. Not going to last long with that and it felt so damn good. Alec shortened his thrusts but kept them strong. “Soon?” He breathed.
—
“Soon.” The confirmation came in a soft gasp. With an arched back and tense muscles, Ross let Alec rock in. Every time his neighbor hit that bundle of nerves, Ross was in the stars. Every one was met with a soft cry out and within minutes he inhaled a deep breath and began to release.
It was too soon — he didn’t want it to end, but those warm ropes had other plans. With a shudder, a smile painted itself across Ross’ lips and he tucked in against Alec. “Make me yours,” he coaxed with a soft breath, wanting to feel the other man painting his insides with claim.
—
The rocking motion was something Alec loved. And the sensations of being in Ross, seeing him move, hearing those cries had rushing towards his own release. He wanted to be all over him, holding with each motion. Perhaps the holding could be afterward.
“Fuck,” he panted. There wasn’t much restraint left in the telepath as he shortened his thrusts even further. Leaning over a little, Alec tightened and thrust hard into his neighbor before gasping and coming inside of Ross. His fingers bruised the other man's hips as emptied himself. “Ross,” he breathed.
—
Oh that grip. The way Alec’s fingers crushed into his skin sent Ross into another level he didn’t think was possible. He didn’t mind a bit of pain during the act as long as it was fun, and that small bit of intensity had his stomach turning with want. “Mmm?” Words weren’t formulating just then. He was too busy being bathed in essence and rendered into a stunned silence by the man who had claimed him.
As they wound down, and Ross began to come to his senses, those eager brown eyes peered up, “you are staying, yes?” He did his best to keep the hope out of his tone but it was hanging on regardless.
Finally, with a soft sound, he drew away. Limbs would propel him up to the pillows, the edges of blankets turned down, and Ross beckoned his neighbor over, arms outstretched.
—
Alec wasn’t abusive, just passionate during sex. The need to hold, to grip, accentuate how he felt in the moment was something that was pure to him. He slowed to a stop and let go of his neighbor’s hips to give him a soft rub up and down his spine. Words were limited for him too but for his neighbor’s name.
Blinking, he saw those eyes and smiled. “Yes, I am staying.” He could see in that handsome face and hear the hope in that voice.
The telepath almost moved in time to Ross’s drawing away. Out of habit, he stepped away to return the lubricant tube to the drawer. Alec stepped back over and saw how his neighbor had shifted and beckoned him. He obliged and climbed onto the bed and settled alongside Ross and into his arms. Wrapping his arms around him, Alec leaned in and pressed a gentle kiss to his neighbor’s mouth before leaning against him.
—
Looping his arms around Alec, Ross tucked the other man in close. The kiss shared was the cherry on the sundae, and a sigh of relief would echo. He held on. Grip firm but not tight, chin tucked over a shoulder. Eyes closed. Paused there for a long moment, he set this memory into a box for later and then drew back to offer the empty side of the bed to his neighbor. “I should clean up, but you do not move.” A playful smile would render another simple kiss and then Ross was gone.
Soft sounds of bare feet would stop in the little bathroom and a small wipe down would ensue. While he didn’t mind wearing the remnants of their adventure, the sheets were fresh and he wanted his neighbor to be comfortable.
Finished, he brushed his teeth and then found a warm spot next to Alec in the alcove of blankets. His head would come to rest upon a shoulder, arm draped and fingers dancing along a bare outline.
—
As Ross tucked him in close, Alec closed his eyes and gave his neighbor a squeeze. He held on too and nuzzled Ross’s shoulder. There was a sense of safety, a need there. And perhaps it was mutual. After that holding, Alec loosened his grip at the drawing back. “Okay,” he nodded and grinned. A soft laugh echoed in his throat at the kiss and he soon was alone in the bed.
He shifted and settled more into the other side of the bed and sighed. His muscles were abuzz from their activity and the rest of him satiated by the primal. Alec rested his head on a propped up hand and sighed.
“Hey,” he breathed as Ross returned. Alec curled an arm around his neighbor, holding him securely but not restraining. “You’re amazingly handsome.” Alec whispered.
—
Color flushed into his face at the compliment. “Ah, merci.” He had been called a lot of things in his life, good and bad, but it felt different coming from Alec. Even in spite of what they’d just done, there was a measure of honesty there that Ross couldn’t shake away. “I think you are, too.” Alec wasn’t too muscular, he didn’t have an attitude or an air about him that made you think twice about letting him put his hands on you. Ross wasn’t entirely used to that.
He hoped that this wonderful man would find a complimentary being out there in the world. Maybe they’d land some place and his neighbor would be hopeless for someone there. He deserved a good life, a real one.
For now, nothing else in the world existed beyond the edges of those tucked and mussed sheets.
—
It was the truth and he hoped Ross took it as such. And the color in the fire breather’s face was confirmation. “You’re welcome.” It hadn’t been too rushed, too fierce. Perhaps just right. “Thank you. You’re too kind.” There were those that Alec had been around who wanted nothing to do with a telepath once they knew what his ‘gift’ was. Being able to see what made someone a freak was sometimes easier to avoid.
Alec didn’t count on anything. He welcomed things, people, opportunities when they came along. There was no manipulating it to his way. Someone like him were gawked at like those who were flashy like the fire breather.
He was content with where he was tonight and who he was with. Turning his head, Alec pressed a kiss to his neighbor's fiery hair and sighed.