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Anyone hear bells ringing, alarms blaring...lol. Must be twelve o'clock, right??? lol... This is a rather, uhmmm, eventful chapter, so enjoy, darlins'.... And yes, this means only one more chapter to go!!!
hugs
xof
Title: “Encompassed…” - Part 10
Author: xof
Feedback: xof1013@gmail.com
Rating: NC-17 (Very, very….lol)
Pairing: Brian/Michael, Declan/Ashton (OMC/OMC)
Genre: First Time, Drama, Angst
Disclaimer: Don’t own ‘em, but damn it’s fun imagining I do…. My two OMC’s are mine, even though Alexis would like it very much if I’d allow them to visit her house…lol.
Status: Complete, but will be posted in 11 parts. (over 126 pages total)
Archive: ATP, Always, yes.
Summary: An exploration of Michael’s submissive nature, and Brian’s resulting claim. With a little help from two new friends….
Timeline: Set after the finale of Season Two, varying irrevocably onward from there.
Pairing Note: This is very much a Brian/Michael story. However, I have created two original characters based on (and only on) the physical appearance of the actors Aidan Gillen and Craig Kelly. My OMC’s are not meant to represent the actual actors or any of their onscreen roles.
Notes: This baby took 8 months to write, and is in fact my 50th posted story. Its length and those facts are all milestones for me, so I hope you enjoy. It drove me crazy, it wore me down and built me back up again. Tremendous gratitude to Alexis for being there through its creation, always encouraging and giving her two cents - and for the fabulous beta and preface. Thanks to Mistress Teri, for letting me pick her head and helping me round out the concept at the beginning. And to the ladies who had a very small peek early on, hope you like the end result, hugs.
Additional Notes: To be found at the end of the fic. Will include links to name origins, and to pictures I found inspiring - including clothing and toys.
Warnings: Deals with the subject of Dominance/submission, and bondage. However, it is a story of love and sensual play. There is no S/M activity between Brian and Michael, which means no PAIN. There is one scene in part one that does touch on S/M, but it’s built off of a scene shown in canon - nothing too heavy at all. Our boys only act as witnesses to it. So I encourage readers to take a chance and follow our boys as they rediscover each other, and themselves, in this new way.
- - - - - - -
Part 10
- - - - - - -
A soft knocking at the door woke Michael from sleep. It was late morning, sun shining through the half pulled drape of the bed. Blinking to clear his eyes, Michael tried to think. Friday; it was Friday. But there was something…. He was supposed to remember, Brian had said….
“oh”….
Turning to find Brian wasn’t with him; Michael sat up and answered the returning knock. “I’m awake, already.”
The door opened, Ashton entering in its wake. “Morning, Michael.” He strode to the bed. “Give us a schooch.” Not waiting for Michael to move, Ash plopped down beside him.
“You’re dressed.” In a blue gray cashmere sweater that looked a tad snug, probably Declan’s. And black trousers, from what Michael could tell.
Laughing, Ashton agreed. “Very perceptive.” Eyes traveling over Michael, who was half buried by the bed sheets, Ashton gave a playful wide-eyed double take. “By the way, you’re not.”
Michael gave him a shove, “Ha ha. Very funny.”
Ashton grinned warmly. “Hey, I’m a gander-hound just like the next man. And after the view we gave you last night, you ought to be barking by now.”
A flash of Declan having Ash on top of the table raced through Michael’s mind, leaving him flushed and flustered at the memory.
“Ohhhh, it DOES go all the way down. Fabulous. Five shades deeper and we’ll be calling you Elmo.”
Without missing a beat, Michael grabbed the nearest pillow and whacked Ashton across the chest. The room echoing with their laughter and Michael’s indignant, “Shut up!”
Racing off the bed and out of Michael’s aim, Ash managed to escape the flying pillow targeted at his back. “Aren’t you a fireball this morning…”
Michael snorted, “Unless you’ve experienced the concussing head slaps of my mom, you have nooooo idea how fireball-ish the Novotny’s can be.”
A quick salute as Ashton took another step backwards, “One Englishman duly noted.”
Michael shook his head, saying again, “You’re dressed. Why?”
“Because a rather beautiful boy let it slip that this will decidedly be YOUR day, so Declan has put playing on hold.”
Michael’s day; his collaring. God…. “Where’s Brian?”
“Off being secretive. While you get to come with me. Now get dressed.”
“You must be the bossiest slave on the planet.”
“It has been said, repeated and written on the blackboard at least a thousand times.” Ashton saw Michael’s expression and added, “Declan does have a talent for utilizing standard punishments in unusual ways.”
Smiling, Ash walked to the door before turning back to say, “Best hop to; Dec’s expecting us. He’s got a surprise for you.”
Eyes fixed on Ashton’s retreating back, Michael took a breath - his mind filled with questions, and then rose to face the day.
- - - - - - -
Declan’s surprise turned out to be, well…rather surprising. The culmination of his talent and Michael’s request; he’d taken their time in the studio to a level that had Michael looking again and again. “That’s unbelievable. It’s amazing.”
“I’m glad you approve.” Declan’s smile was small and, if it were possible, shy. A man pleased with the reception of his work.
Michael was still staring, even as he said, “Thank you so much.” When at last he turned, Michael asked, “Do you think he’ll like it?”
Declan’s answer was, “It’s you, how could he not.”
It was something Michael could only hope was true.
- - - - - - -
Hours passed, each longer than the next and still no Brian. Michael occupied himself by playing assistant to Ashton, who continued to amuse both Declan and Michael by making obscene clay figures instead of working on any of his works in progress. He’d made Michael take a turn at the clay spinning wheel, but Ashton’s rendition of “Unchained Melody” had ended with him being pelted by both Master and guest. Wet clay everywhere, and Michael collapsed on the floor laughing as Ashton tried to talk himself out of a spanking - because really, clay curls were a good look for Declan don’t you agree?
But despite the fun, Brian’s whereabouts were still a question. One that Declan wouldn’t venture to answer. Just telling him that Brian would be back in good time.
After helping clean up the studio, Michael smiled as Declan pulled Ash up the stairs to dole out some bun warming. Or rather as Declan gave his lover a shove and then chased after as Ashton darted up taking two stairs at a time, laughter echoing down the stairwell as they disappeared from view.
Left to his own devices, Michael wandered the house for awhile. Realizing with some amusement at his own expense, that he hadn’t even noticed the absence of a television or a computer. Or even a phone. No email, no pages, nothing for a week.
He’d been too wrapped up in and with Brian to notice.
But that also meant there were other things, other people he’d been distanced from as well. And there lay too many tangled webs for him to unravel in a day. Deciding that he still had time to deal with that, and best now, someone to help him deal in it together - Michael turned his mind away from thoughts of home.
Choosing instead to focus on something he’d been neglecting for far too long. “Rage“… Michael wasn’t willing to let his dream fade out so soon. Seeing “Rage” in print had inspired more storyline ideas than he could keep straight. It was time to put a few down, even if only in outline. Hopefully, as tempers cooled and relationships went on, he and Justin would be able to work out their differences for the sake of another issue. Or several…. If not, if they couldn’t work together, then Michael had hopes of continuing on regardless. Maybe Ashton had contacts locally that would be open to the commission. Time would tell.
Writer’s cramp and sunset were at last the things that turned Michael’s attention from a certain couple of superheroes saving Gayopolis, and back to the ticking clock. He had dried flecks of clay on his jeans, a few small streaks on his arms that he hadn‘t noticed before. Grabbing his notes, he decided to head up and grab a shower. Still waiting as his day turned into his night….
- - - - - - -
With barely a turn on the knob, the bedroom door opened wide. A startled Michael staring over the threshold to see Brian blocking his view of the room. Brian, who carried a secretive look in his eyes and a heated expression on his face, standing there in nothing but a worn pair of rumpled jeans unbuttoned at the waist. Shirtless, shoeless, at ease with his body and himself - but a man who worked what he had because he knew it was worth the price.
“Hi.” Michael murmured, still caught up in the rush he always felt at the sight of Brian. Especially when Brian looked back at him the way he was….
“Not yet.“ A smile, Brian’s full lips turning as he reached into his jean pocket and pulled out a joint. “Care to join me in a haze of memories from wayward days gone by,” he closed the door behind Michael, and then crowded him against its solid frame. “Just you, and me.”
Looking up into Brian’s eyes, held within them, Michael nodded. “Okay.”
“Good.” Brian stepped back, letting Michael get a better look at part of his surprise.
Furniture pushed back against the walls, the center of the floor in front of the fire was covered in pillows. Large, plush, in varying shades of brown, black and burgundy, they were arranged in a spread out fashion that spoke to relaxation and luxury. Centered amongst them were….
“Brian! How did you get all this out here in the middle of nowhere?”
“Took a little side trip during my day. But it was purely selfish. Almost two weeks since I’ve had Chinese, I was starting to go through withdrawal.” Various cartons were sitting on a tray, a variety that spoke - despite his words of self-interest - more to Michael’s favorites, than Brian’s.
“You went home, again? Was it work?”
“Nahh, it was easy. I knew the way.” Brian grinned at Michael’s dramatic groan, and the bird Michael threw in his direction.
Waving Michael over, Brian caught the cuffed wrist nearest him before Michael could pass. Stealing a kiss, sensual and slow, before they both settled down to eat….
An hour later, Chinese takeout cartons littering the scene, found the two sprawled out over the pillows. Michael giggling as Brian looked down at him, laughing back even as he shook his head. They’d finished smoking long before, eating as they talked about Michael’s day. Brian still mum about his own. Though Michael’s giddiness worked to cover Brian’s turning the conversation back his way each time. The picture Michael created of Declan and Ash from earlier in the day had them both bursting out loud. Tears in Michael’s eyes from laughing so much, a light in Brian’s as he continued to indulge one of his favorite sports. Watching Michael be Mikey….
As time passed, the laughter waned and the soothing warmth of the room, the food and the pot started to settle over Michael - his eyes closing on the brink of sleep; Brian leaned in and murmured against his ear.
His words calling Michael back quickly.
“It’s time, Michael.” Brian pulled Michael up onto his feet, holding him. “Time to set the stage.” A kiss, then another. “Someone got all dirty without me today.” He traced the dried clay on Michael’s skin. “So I think you should grab a quick shower, and I’ll finish cleaning up.” When Michael turned to leave, Brian again held onto his hand. “I want you back stripped, Michael. Completely bare, except for these.” His fingers lingering on the cuff before Michael agreed.
Voice a whisper, “Yes, sir.” And then Michael walked away, looking back at Brian again before he shut the door.
- - - - - - -
“Brian?”
Turning at the sound of his name, Brian found Michael standing nude - skin rosy and warmed from his shower. Standing and staring at Brian with a mix of pleasure and surprise.
Brian held out his arms, hips cocked and eyes hungry, letting Michael get the full view. “You like?”
Michael clenched his fists, feeling the effect of seeing the way Brian was dressed. Feeling the burn of memory revisited…. His eyes dark and his breathing just this side of unsteady, Michael could only nod as he answered, “It’s even better the second time around.”
Clad in the same clothes he’d worn just a short time ago to the Leather Ball, Brian lowered his hands and hooked his thumbs over the top of the waist-less brown leather pants, pulling them down just a fraction lower than there was really room to go . . . the hint of brown curls, illicit in a way that made Michael’s gut clench. As did the exposed patch of skin showing below the tight silk brown sleeve-less tee Brian was wearing.
“Just a step back before taking a leap forward.” Brian mused, walking slowly, provocatively closer. “I enjoyed dressing you that night. Still do. Dressing you, undressing you. But tonight I’m giving you something else. Something that once you have, you aren’t to remove.” He smiled. “Not without permission.” Stopping just an inch away, he said, “Day and night. In public and at home, aside from showering and the gym, it stays on.”
For Michael, knowing what was going to happen paled to the reality of knowing it was happening now….
He remained caught, rooted to the spot by the power of Brian’s eyes and the empowerment of his voice. And all he could think to say was the one word that had come to mean everything, “Always.”
A nod, then Brian’s face grew serious. “And in all ways, mine.” Circling around to stand at Michael’s back, he placed a kiss on Michael’s neck - his hands smoothing up the line of his throat. “Close your eyes.”
Hardly a sound followed as Michael complied; his rapidly beating heart was the only thing he heard for the longest. And while it only lasted a moment, the wait creped on and on - one everlasting tick at a time.
Then it was done, sure and fast - one minute bare and the next not….
Michael fought to keep his eyes closed but the moment he felt the presence of Brian’s gift, it was all he could do to keep still. So he focused on the feel, the weight, the hold of the leather as it touched his skin. Unlike the collar he’d worn the night before, it wasn’t at all constrictive or restraining. Light, supple and smooth instead, it moved well as Michael turned his head.
A hand taking his, Brian was at his side. “Keep ‘em closed.”
“I want to see.”
Sounding fond, but amused, “You will. Just trust me.”
“I do.”
A pause, and then Brian answered back, “I do, too.”
It was an oath, a vow to a question not asked, but nonetheless made.
Legs feeling a little weaker than before, Michael held tight to Brian’s guiding hand until they stopped a few short steps later.
“Have a look, Mikey.”
The image reflected back in the mirror of the well lit bathroom struck Michael at first sight. Brian, beautiful at his back. Himself, staring forth with something akin to awe. But nothing held more fully in his mind, and heart, than the gift he wore. The tangible evidence of Brian’s claim.
The collar was sleek, stylish and with one look - most assuredly custom made. Choker style, but fit to his neck like it had been measured with comfort and care. It was square cut, edges smoothed, with alternating black leather and platinum links. About an inch and a half squared, each leather length was held attached to the next by three parallel platinum clasps stacked one on top of the other. And so it went, leather - platinum - leather - platinum - leather. The pattern following thus throughout, until they met in the back - two leather squares clasped together with a hidden slip hook. The collar built for beauty, but made for endurance and strength.
But for Michael, who thrilled at the sight of Brian’s gift, it was something more than all this that made the collar truly theirs. Truly intimate and uniquely Brian….
Sewn in the center of each leather square was a remnant of their past, and of one night that had solidified their bond - a bond that had lasted more than half their lives. A shell; each taken from the bracelet Brian had worn everyday since Michael had given it to him so many years ago. A total of five in all…. Taken from the original seven.
And then, one last touch.
Hanging from the center square, placed at the base of Michael’s throat was a platinum medallion. Flat and round, it lay cool against his skin; polished to shine. And with a closer look, also engraved. An italicized “A” on the front….
“Flip it up.” Brian’s voice pulled Michael’s eyes away from the collar; their gazes meeting in the glass for a moment - the look profound, before he did as Brian said.
On the back was one word….
“Always.” The two men speaking together, their voices melding as Michael again caught Brian’s eye. His own shining with emotion, as Brian pulled him round and into a kiss.
A kiss Michael poured himself into, hands buried in Brian’s hair as he rose up on his toes for more.
Humming his pleasure at Michael’s enthusiasm, Brian pulled back with a low chuckle. His eyes warm, a smile breaking as he laughed. “I take that to mean you like it.”
Michael reached up and ran his fingers over the collar. “It’s fantastic. I can’t believe, how did you…. It’s, I… You are amaz….”
“Amazing, I know.” Brian grinned as Michael smiled back, watching as his lover turned to look in the mirror again. “It looks good on you.”
“When did you do this?”
“Tuesday. The artist is a friend of Declan. I drove down for it today.” Brian enjoyed watching Michael as he kept looking in the mirror, touching the collar again and again. “It’s something that will pass as a necklace to most. But to you and me, it means you’re mine.” He caught Michael’s hand, turning him again. “Yes?”
Michael licked his lips, agreeing - his voice sure and glad. “Yes.”
Nodding his head back in the direction of the bedroom, Brian said, “Then there’s just one last thing to do.”
He guided Michael back to the fire, before stepping away to grab one of the two jewelry boxes resting on the dressing table that Michael hadn’t seen. Brian pointed to the larger box that he’d left. “It’s for your collar, on the few occasions you have it off when not at home. It has a combination lock built in.” Returning, Brian gave Michael the smaller box. He didn’t say anything else, just waited for Michael to open it.
Inside was another work of art; one that matched Michael’s collar perfectly. A cuff, again in black leather with a three inch span like the ones Michael was wearing. But with differences; centered and sewn into the leather was a platinum oval framed on either side by the last of the remaining shells from Brian’s bracelet. The oval itself was engraved in the same italics as Michael’s collar. But instead of the “A,” there were two initials entwined - one placed slightly higher than its mate. “M” and “B” - with the “M” being the one on high.
“Brian, it’s beautiful. Thank you.” He offered up his wrist for Brian to unbuckle the cuff so it could be replaced, only to have Brian shake his head.
“No, Michael. I’ve made my claim.” Brian held out his right hand, palm up. “Now it’s time for you to make yours.”
Michael looked from Brian to the cuff, and back - eyes large and mouth parted as what Brian was offering crystallized in his mind. “Really?”
Brian moved in closer, “If I’ve learned anything this past week, it’s that a claim is never one sided. If you’re mine, then I’m….”
“Mine.” Feeling a bit shaken, but anticipatory like someone putting the last puzzle piece in place, Michael pulled the cuff free and sheathed Brian’s wrist inside. Buckling it into place, before turning his hand to see. Michael stood, overwhelmed that it looked so right against Brian’s skin. The perfect fit, like it was meant to be all along.
Michael felt almost like he was floating, looking down from above at the wonder of seeing them together in a way that no one could have predicted. “This feels so….”
Brian nodded, the rush of the moment introducing a new kind of high as he stood the beneficiary of more than he ever knew he could want. “Intense.”
“Grown up, and….” Michael laughed, “Yeah, intense.” He leaned up, pressing a kiss against Brian’s mouth. Whispering true, “Love you.” Expecting Brian to only say his standard, ‘me too.’
Only to have Brian turn his already shaken world for a curve by saying instead, “I love you, back.”
Turning to catch Brian’s heavy lidded eyes, Michael asked, “Say it again.”
Hands coming up the frame Michael’s face, Brian brushed his lips to Michael’s own. “Love you.”
The kiss building, lips parting and a moan sounding in the air - Michael murmured softly. “Again….”
His time to whisper, Brian answered, “Let me show you instead.”
- - - - - - -
There is a place, between waking and dreams, were reality ebbs and perception kaleidoscopes. One touch feels like a thousand, and the line between what is real and imagined fades away.
For Michael, waking the next day was a slow process. He’d almost reach clarity, on the brink of opening his eyes, and then it would be lost again to a brief flash of what they’d done the night before. The sensation of Brian’s body against his, over his; the friction and slide of their skin. The sounds, rough and frantic then soft and murmuring. All these things floating in and out of his sleep-filled brain had Michael content to remain adrift, wrapped up in the warmth of Brian’s body and the sheets surrounding them.
And so they lay, hours passing until nature’s call and their own sense of playfulness had them awake and breathless once again. Michael muttered a protest when Brian reached back to remove the collar, settling down as Brian whispered that they needed to shower before meeting Dec and Ash for lunch.
“Just a quick in and out, and I’ll put it back once you’re dry.” Brian set the collar down on the bed, then his cuff before reaching to unfasten Michael’s cuffs. The process made difficult when Michael started laughing and rolled off the bed onto his feet. “What?”
“You even make taking a shower sound like sex.” Michael grinned, pulling off the leather at his wrists and throwing them onto the disarrayed bedding.
Rising, Brian stalked Michael around the bed - unhurried and with full confidence of his effect on Michael as he neared. “Who says the two are mutually exclusive?”
Stuttering as Brian caught him around the waist and held him captive and close, Michael managed, “Not…. Not me.”
Brian leaned in, kissing Michael slowly; his tongue passing into the heat of Michael’s mouth only briefly before he stopped. “After you….”
Michael cleared his throat, turning to go but not before throwing a look over his shoulder. “You just want to look at my ass.”
Drawing out each syllable, Brian agreed, “Absolutely,” before following right - well, behind.
- - - - - - -
The two barely made lunch; the shower having run long and wet.
Of course, Brian’s addition to Michael’s wardrobe had made them later still. Not the collar; it was fastened in place along with the cuffs quickly upon their return to the bedroom. No, it was another item that Brian had added underneath Michael’s clothing - jeans, tight, and long-sleeved black tee fitted - that caused the delay.
“Tell me how it feels.” Brian held Michael to his chest, standing at the smaller man’s back after having caught him just before they turned to head into the kitchen.
Michael gasped, and then shifted as Brian dropped a wandering hand to caress against the seam of his jeans. The fingers circling in, and then pressing down along his crease. Pushing against….
“Brian, please. I’m not going to be able to walk if you keep doing that.”
Brian laughed, the sound intimate and deep. “Not until you tell me, Mikey.”
Closing his eyes, Michael shivered and tried to keep his hips still as Brian continued to tease him. To tease the toy he’d placed inside; a plug made of clear acrylic, narrow at the base with an oval flange that pressed against Michael’s prostate as he moved. Or rather, as Brian continued to torment him. “It’s, ahhh. It’s hard, filling me… Fuck.”
Brian dropped his hand down, rubbing his palm against Michael’s groin. “You’re hard.” He released a satisfied hum, “I like that. I like knowing I can make you crazy like this.”
Michael slid his hand down Brian’s arm, stroking his fingers over Brian’s cuff. “You always made me this crazy; it’s just now I know you’ll do something about it.” He smiled even as he moaned.
“Oh trust me, it’s all I can do not to tear down your jeans and slid inside. Just like you want me to,” he groaned as Michael slipped a hand between his thighs, cupping Brian’s balls. “Shit, Michael. I’m teaching you too many of my tricks.”
“Who’s to say this isn’t one of my tricks.” Michael teased him back, turning the tables just a bit as he continued to move his hand.
The two were still caught up in the deadlock, when out of nowhere another’s voice caused them to turn their heads.
“My, my, my. And me without my popcorn.” Ashton was leaning against the entranceway, playing spectator for all he was worth. Looking relaxed in his navy sleep pants and white turtle neck. He walked over, pushing his sleeves up as he did - his tattoos showing.
Michael laughed as Brian pressed his face against his throat with a plaintive groan. Laughter that turned into a surprised gasp as Brian trailed his tongue along Michael’s skin, just below the collar. Dropping his wandering hand, Michael gave Brian a small shove; moving back with difficulty between the mix of his hard-on and the plug playing on his senses. “You are evil.”
Brian finally stepped back, smiling fondly. “You can bet that won’t make life boring.”
Michael glanced at Ash, the two men saying volumes with just a look. Both having had long experience with just how un-boring their lovers could be….
Ashton gave Brian a glance, then turned back to Michael. “I suggest taking vitamins, lots and lots of vitamins.”
He and Michael were still chuckling when Declan appeared, giving Ash’s bottom a pop. Which caused Ashton to jump half out of his skin. “Fucking hell, Dec. Owe.” He rubbed his bum, and stepped out of Declan’s reach. “I’ve been good. Just ask them.”
Brian interjected, “You‘re in America. Probably best to plead the Fifth.”
At Declan’s snort, Ashton reached out to take Michael’s hand and pulled him into the kitchen. “That’s right, have a go at me. It’s not like I’ve got an inch of butt left to burn.”
Still in the hall, Brian nodded at their retreating backs as he asked Declan, “Tell me, how has your hand NOT fallen off by now?”
Declan grinned back, speaking conspiratorially as he said, “Ash-wood paddles.” Seeing Brian shaking in head in amusement, Declan added. “I’m a proponent of irony.”
Chuckling, Brian said, “Perfect.”
They both turned quickly when they heard an exclamation from the kitchen, walking in the see what had caused the sound.
“It’s marvelous, Michael. God, you must be chuffed to bits! Hell, I’m chuffed just looking at it. Declan! Come see….”
Brian and Declan entered to find Michael smiling as Ash admired his collar. Dec walked over and looked for a long moment, before saying, “It’s a beautiful piece. One worthy of that smile.” He brushed the back of his fingers down Michael’s cheek, “He’s lucky to have you to wear it.”
Michael felt the sting in his eyes, dropping his gaze as he gave a nod of thanks for Declan’s graciousness. His hand rose to touch the leather at his throat, he looked up and said, “Thank you,” softly.
Declan asked, “For what?”
“For having us, for helping.”
Drawing Ash to his side, Dec smiled. “It’s been a pleasure. For us both.”
Brian came forward and encircled Michael’s waist - his own cuff shining in the light of the room. He nodded to Ash and Dec, saying his thanks in gesture rather than word.
Ash’s eyes caught the addition to Brian’s wardrobe and whistled, “They’re a matched set.” He looked at Declan, “Andre?”
The Irishman answered, “He’s the best.”
Michael looked up at Brian, smiling. “And Brian only likes the best.”
Brian pressed a kiss to Michael’s forehead, “Well, I do like you.”
Hugging Brian‘s arm, Michael said, “I kinda like you back.”
The moment ended with the uncontrollable rumbling of someone’s stomach….
“Opps, sorry.” Ashton pressed a hand to his stomach, grinning as the others laughed.
It served as a reminder to all that their lunch was growing cooler by the minute. So with a, “Gentlemen, shall we,” from Declan, they sat down to eat.
- - - - - - -
After an amusing turn at having lunch when two of the four present were having various problems keeping still, Ashton due to his hot buns and Michael due to the plug pressing just so inside - the pairs parted company for the afternoon. Ashton dragging Dec off for some quality sauna time, as Brian took Michael back to their room to play.
But not before Declan gave Michael the go ahead that “it” would be ready later that afternoon.
Having overheard the “it” reference, Brian spent a long while trying to wheedle, tickle, tease and then seduce the information out of Michael.
It was surprising to them both that Michael managed keep the secret through it all. But he’d learned a few methods of distraction of his own that helped.
And then, after most of the day was gone and they both were done-in enough for calmer things, Michael pulled away from Brian’s reaching hands and told him to get dressed. Smiling as he fastened his jeans and sidestepped the shirt Brian threw at his head, Michael asked, “Wanna play follow the leader?”
Brian languidly moved off the bed, scratching his flat belly. “Does it entail watching your ass move while I’m thinking lewd and lascivious thoughts?”
Snorting, Michael mused, “I’m amazed either of us has any higher brain function after the last couple hours.”
Brian pushed his long legs into his jeans, pulling them up but leaving them unbuttoned as he drew his sweater over his head. His voice sounding through the fabric before he’d fully cleared the neck, “That’s why they call sex mind-blowing, Mikey.”
It was only after he’d pulled the shirt down that Brian realized Michael had already raced out the door. Giving chase, Brian soon caught up to him on the first floor landing. He smiled as Michael teased, “Still working on catching that fifth wind?”
Brian grabbed Michael, tickling him as they both laughed. “The better to huff and puff you with.”
“Says my very own big bad wolf,” Michael could only shake his head, smiling at Brian as they came to a stop at the door to Declan’s studio. “You know you’re nuts, right?”
Intentionally misconstruing Michael’s words, Brian responded, “I’m intimately familiar with both of them, as are you.”
Michael whacked Brian on the arm as the taller man tried to pull Michael’s hand to his groin. “Stop,” he admonished. “Be good, and I’ll tell you what ‘it’ is.”
On the verge of laying in another pun, Brian stopped with one more look from Michael. He took on a fraudulently bashful expression and agreed, “I can be good. I can be very good.”
Voice intimate and soft, Michael said, “I know.” And then turning the knob, he opened the door and stepped through. Brian following inside. “I got to play studio assistant on Tuesday while Declan worked on his liquid dye series. And I thought you might like to see these. They’re shadow plays in black and white.” Michael turned on the backlight on Declan’s work table, placed a sheet of slides on top and handed Brian the magnifier lens. Grinning as he added, “Of Ashton.”
Ever the ad man, Brian bent to examine each slide one after the other. Giving each time and consideration, in silence and then looking up to say, “These are really good. He could be a professional. Print, galleries, the whole lot.” Giving a couple another look, Brian laughed. “Hell, he could give some of the guys in Ryder’s art department a run for their money.”
Michael had grown quiet, serious. “I thought you’d like them.”
Brian looked up to see Michael had moved to stand next to an easel, his arms hugged around his waist. Looking for all the world like he was nervous. “I do; they’re…. It’s like the longer you look, the more there is to see.” He walked to Michael’s side, putting an arm around his shoulders and pulling him in. “Michael, what’s….”
Michael interrupted, closing his eyes for only a moment before speaking. “I wanted to give you something, a gift. But I couldn’t think what, and then…. Then I saw those, saw what Declan could create and I asked. I asked him to help….”
When Brian started to ask what with, Michael reached out and pulled the white drape covering the easel, letting it drop to the floor as both men turned to look at what was featured on display.
The print, large - at least three feet square, was showcased in a black frame, black matte border and non-glare glass. But for all the attention to presentation, it was the photograph itself that was the most striking to the eye. Positioned on a pooled spill of black velvet was a man on his knees, back to the camera and resting back on his heels. Nude, his skin shone a brilliant white before the camera lens.
Shot at one quarter profile, his face was turned away from the viewer. His identity was additionally concealed by the angle of the lights from the side and overhead. The lights having been placed directly above, so that his face and upper torso were lost in the darkness that surrounded him. The resulting glow cascaded over his skin, down his back and over the curves of his behind and thigh - the detail so great that the rays were visible as they toughed him. And as they married back into the shadows playing along his opposite side and hip.
Drawn back and held bound, the man’s hands were crossed at the base of his spine. His submission shown in both the position of his body, and in the only adornment he wore against his skin….
A single silver chain that reflected with vibrancy, the links so delicate that they looked fragile. Falling down from around the man’s neck, it flowed along the length of his spine before being wrapped around his bare wrists. The message one of submission given, not forced. A choice made, and value known.
There were no details that screamed out who the man was, but with only a look….
“Michael, god. It’s….” Brian glanced at Michael, whose face was both pale and flushed, then back at the print. “That’s you.” Feeling Michael shifting away, Brian pulled him to stand in front and hugged him around the waist. Resting his chin on Michael’s shoulder, he continued to look at the photo. “It’s fucking amazing.”
Michael gave a nervous chuckle, “That’s what I said when I saw it. It feels a little unreal, like it’s not even me.”
Letting his eyes play over the image, Brian trailed his hand down over the curve of Michael’s hip then back over the curve of his ass. “Oh, it’s you alright. There’s no doubt.” He kissed the back of Michael’s neck, just below the collar. “And I know just the place I want it to go.”
Giving a groan, Michael said, “How about under the bed?”
“Oh, no fucking way. Nothing that hot should be hidden, collecting dust. It’s going up in the loft.”
Enjoying Brian’s vehemence despite his own qualms, Michael turned and smiled. “Only if you don’t tell everyone who sees it, that it’s me.”
Brian paused like he was thinking about it, then he said, “Officially, I ordered it from a gallery in New York.” He cupped Michael’s face, “Unofficially, it’s one of the greatest gifts I’ve ever gotten.” He kissed him, “Thank you, Mikey.
Kissing him back, Michael whispered, “You’re welcome.”
- - - - - - -
The rest of the evening progressed rather quickly, the four working together in the kitchen to prepare dinner. Homemade pizza, because it was Ashton’s favorite and the kitchen – at least for the evening, was his domain. Or rather, it was the battleground for his latent drill sergeant tendencies, as Declan told Brian and Michael after the three of them were assigned their duties and told to march to them: Declan on sauce duty, Michael cutting up vegetables and Brian handling the meat. And no, that last chore didn’t get assigned without a laugh passing at Brian’s expense. Not that he cared, since he was laughing the loudest.
Which left Ashton loaded for bear with making the dough. Which considering his vast experience with kneading clay, he felt he was best qualified for the job. “My ‘snatch, clean and jerk’ skills are legendary.”
Declan threw their guests a look, “Yeah, in his own head. And forgive the Rocky Horror reference. I think the last spanking may have rattled his brain.”
Needless to say, the meal, “came off – ha ha,” as Ashton said, with only a few hitches. All flour flicks and smudges of discipline considered.
It was only afterwards that Declan told them that he and Ash would be staying on for a few more days. His down time had been planned for two weeks, one at Havenshire and the other at home. But he’d decided to follow his muse and continue working on a new series of portraiture. One that veered away from shadow play, but was built instead around the form he’d discovered while doing Michael’s portrait.
Brian teased Michael, “Does that make you Serendipity?”
His answer was Michael’s elbow in his side, as their hosts looked on and laughed.
The couples parted ways for the night soon thereafter, but not before Michael gave Declan his thanks again for all he’d done to help with Brian’s gift. But the look in his eyes, and the message conveyed was more than that. It was a thank you for everything, for all the ways Declan had helped and all the ways he had guided them both, even as he’d left the way to their own choosing.
Declan‘s answer was a smile, small and with lips quirked before he said, “It’s been a joy, Michael. All of it…”
Feeling Brian hugging him from behind, Michael looked up in time to see Brian giving Declan a nod. A thank you from a man to which the words were foreign. Looking back Declan’s way, Michael grinned as he saw Ashton standing off to the side. Michael reached out and took his hand, pulling Ash in for a quick hug. “And you. Thanks for letting us horn in on your vacation.”
Ash laughed as Brian ruffled his hair before he could get away, “It’s been a blast. Despite the manhandling,” he said, shooting Brian a dark look that fell short on menace considering the merriment shining from his eyes.
Shaking his head, Declan drew Ash to his side and hugged an arm around his waist. “I happen to know you’re a big fan of manhandling, so hush.” Addressing Brian, he asked, “We’d like to see you two off; have you decided when you’re heading out?”
“Early, we have a lunch date to keep.”
Michael was surprised. “We do?”
Brian didn’t elaborate, just repeated, “We do.”
Good evenings were passed, and they all went to their rooms. Brian remained secretive, not answering Michael’s questions about Sunday’s plans. Instead, he pressed Michael down on the bed and set about driving him beyond the ability to think.
to be concluded - Part 11...
hugs
xof
Title: “Encompassed…” - Part 10
Author: xof
Feedback: xof1013@gmail.com
Rating: NC-17 (Very, very….lol)
Pairing: Brian/Michael, Declan/Ashton (OMC/OMC)
Genre: First Time, Drama, Angst
Disclaimer: Don’t own ‘em, but damn it’s fun imagining I do…. My two OMC’s are mine, even though Alexis would like it very much if I’d allow them to visit her house…lol.
Status: Complete, but will be posted in 11 parts. (over 126 pages total)
Archive: ATP, Always, yes.
Summary: An exploration of Michael’s submissive nature, and Brian’s resulting claim. With a little help from two new friends….
Timeline: Set after the finale of Season Two, varying irrevocably onward from there.
Pairing Note: This is very much a Brian/Michael story. However, I have created two original characters based on (and only on) the physical appearance of the actors Aidan Gillen and Craig Kelly. My OMC’s are not meant to represent the actual actors or any of their onscreen roles.
Notes: This baby took 8 months to write, and is in fact my 50th posted story. Its length and those facts are all milestones for me, so I hope you enjoy. It drove me crazy, it wore me down and built me back up again. Tremendous gratitude to Alexis for being there through its creation, always encouraging and giving her two cents - and for the fabulous beta and preface. Thanks to Mistress Teri, for letting me pick her head and helping me round out the concept at the beginning. And to the ladies who had a very small peek early on, hope you like the end result, hugs.
Additional Notes: To be found at the end of the fic. Will include links to name origins, and to pictures I found inspiring - including clothing and toys.
Warnings: Deals with the subject of Dominance/submission, and bondage. However, it is a story of love and sensual play. There is no S/M activity between Brian and Michael, which means no PAIN. There is one scene in part one that does touch on S/M, but it’s built off of a scene shown in canon - nothing too heavy at all. Our boys only act as witnesses to it. So I encourage readers to take a chance and follow our boys as they rediscover each other, and themselves, in this new way.
- - - - - - -
Part 10
- - - - - - -
A soft knocking at the door woke Michael from sleep. It was late morning, sun shining through the half pulled drape of the bed. Blinking to clear his eyes, Michael tried to think. Friday; it was Friday. But there was something…. He was supposed to remember, Brian had said….
“oh”….
Turning to find Brian wasn’t with him; Michael sat up and answered the returning knock. “I’m awake, already.”
The door opened, Ashton entering in its wake. “Morning, Michael.” He strode to the bed. “Give us a schooch.” Not waiting for Michael to move, Ash plopped down beside him.
“You’re dressed.” In a blue gray cashmere sweater that looked a tad snug, probably Declan’s. And black trousers, from what Michael could tell.
Laughing, Ashton agreed. “Very perceptive.” Eyes traveling over Michael, who was half buried by the bed sheets, Ashton gave a playful wide-eyed double take. “By the way, you’re not.”
Michael gave him a shove, “Ha ha. Very funny.”
Ashton grinned warmly. “Hey, I’m a gander-hound just like the next man. And after the view we gave you last night, you ought to be barking by now.”
A flash of Declan having Ash on top of the table raced through Michael’s mind, leaving him flushed and flustered at the memory.
“Ohhhh, it DOES go all the way down. Fabulous. Five shades deeper and we’ll be calling you Elmo.”
Without missing a beat, Michael grabbed the nearest pillow and whacked Ashton across the chest. The room echoing with their laughter and Michael’s indignant, “Shut up!”
Racing off the bed and out of Michael’s aim, Ash managed to escape the flying pillow targeted at his back. “Aren’t you a fireball this morning…”
Michael snorted, “Unless you’ve experienced the concussing head slaps of my mom, you have nooooo idea how fireball-ish the Novotny’s can be.”
A quick salute as Ashton took another step backwards, “One Englishman duly noted.”
Michael shook his head, saying again, “You’re dressed. Why?”
“Because a rather beautiful boy let it slip that this will decidedly be YOUR day, so Declan has put playing on hold.”
Michael’s day; his collaring. God…. “Where’s Brian?”
“Off being secretive. While you get to come with me. Now get dressed.”
“You must be the bossiest slave on the planet.”
“It has been said, repeated and written on the blackboard at least a thousand times.” Ashton saw Michael’s expression and added, “Declan does have a talent for utilizing standard punishments in unusual ways.”
Smiling, Ash walked to the door before turning back to say, “Best hop to; Dec’s expecting us. He’s got a surprise for you.”
Eyes fixed on Ashton’s retreating back, Michael took a breath - his mind filled with questions, and then rose to face the day.
- - - - - - -
Declan’s surprise turned out to be, well…rather surprising. The culmination of his talent and Michael’s request; he’d taken their time in the studio to a level that had Michael looking again and again. “That’s unbelievable. It’s amazing.”
“I’m glad you approve.” Declan’s smile was small and, if it were possible, shy. A man pleased with the reception of his work.
Michael was still staring, even as he said, “Thank you so much.” When at last he turned, Michael asked, “Do you think he’ll like it?”
Declan’s answer was, “It’s you, how could he not.”
It was something Michael could only hope was true.
- - - - - - -
Hours passed, each longer than the next and still no Brian. Michael occupied himself by playing assistant to Ashton, who continued to amuse both Declan and Michael by making obscene clay figures instead of working on any of his works in progress. He’d made Michael take a turn at the clay spinning wheel, but Ashton’s rendition of “Unchained Melody” had ended with him being pelted by both Master and guest. Wet clay everywhere, and Michael collapsed on the floor laughing as Ashton tried to talk himself out of a spanking - because really, clay curls were a good look for Declan don’t you agree?
But despite the fun, Brian’s whereabouts were still a question. One that Declan wouldn’t venture to answer. Just telling him that Brian would be back in good time.
After helping clean up the studio, Michael smiled as Declan pulled Ash up the stairs to dole out some bun warming. Or rather as Declan gave his lover a shove and then chased after as Ashton darted up taking two stairs at a time, laughter echoing down the stairwell as they disappeared from view.
Left to his own devices, Michael wandered the house for awhile. Realizing with some amusement at his own expense, that he hadn’t even noticed the absence of a television or a computer. Or even a phone. No email, no pages, nothing for a week.
He’d been too wrapped up in and with Brian to notice.
But that also meant there were other things, other people he’d been distanced from as well. And there lay too many tangled webs for him to unravel in a day. Deciding that he still had time to deal with that, and best now, someone to help him deal in it together - Michael turned his mind away from thoughts of home.
Choosing instead to focus on something he’d been neglecting for far too long. “Rage“… Michael wasn’t willing to let his dream fade out so soon. Seeing “Rage” in print had inspired more storyline ideas than he could keep straight. It was time to put a few down, even if only in outline. Hopefully, as tempers cooled and relationships went on, he and Justin would be able to work out their differences for the sake of another issue. Or several…. If not, if they couldn’t work together, then Michael had hopes of continuing on regardless. Maybe Ashton had contacts locally that would be open to the commission. Time would tell.
Writer’s cramp and sunset were at last the things that turned Michael’s attention from a certain couple of superheroes saving Gayopolis, and back to the ticking clock. He had dried flecks of clay on his jeans, a few small streaks on his arms that he hadn‘t noticed before. Grabbing his notes, he decided to head up and grab a shower. Still waiting as his day turned into his night….
- - - - - - -
With barely a turn on the knob, the bedroom door opened wide. A startled Michael staring over the threshold to see Brian blocking his view of the room. Brian, who carried a secretive look in his eyes and a heated expression on his face, standing there in nothing but a worn pair of rumpled jeans unbuttoned at the waist. Shirtless, shoeless, at ease with his body and himself - but a man who worked what he had because he knew it was worth the price.
“Hi.” Michael murmured, still caught up in the rush he always felt at the sight of Brian. Especially when Brian looked back at him the way he was….
“Not yet.“ A smile, Brian’s full lips turning as he reached into his jean pocket and pulled out a joint. “Care to join me in a haze of memories from wayward days gone by,” he closed the door behind Michael, and then crowded him against its solid frame. “Just you, and me.”
Looking up into Brian’s eyes, held within them, Michael nodded. “Okay.”
“Good.” Brian stepped back, letting Michael get a better look at part of his surprise.
Furniture pushed back against the walls, the center of the floor in front of the fire was covered in pillows. Large, plush, in varying shades of brown, black and burgundy, they were arranged in a spread out fashion that spoke to relaxation and luxury. Centered amongst them were….
“Brian! How did you get all this out here in the middle of nowhere?”
“Took a little side trip during my day. But it was purely selfish. Almost two weeks since I’ve had Chinese, I was starting to go through withdrawal.” Various cartons were sitting on a tray, a variety that spoke - despite his words of self-interest - more to Michael’s favorites, than Brian’s.
“You went home, again? Was it work?”
“Nahh, it was easy. I knew the way.” Brian grinned at Michael’s dramatic groan, and the bird Michael threw in his direction.
Waving Michael over, Brian caught the cuffed wrist nearest him before Michael could pass. Stealing a kiss, sensual and slow, before they both settled down to eat….
An hour later, Chinese takeout cartons littering the scene, found the two sprawled out over the pillows. Michael giggling as Brian looked down at him, laughing back even as he shook his head. They’d finished smoking long before, eating as they talked about Michael’s day. Brian still mum about his own. Though Michael’s giddiness worked to cover Brian’s turning the conversation back his way each time. The picture Michael created of Declan and Ash from earlier in the day had them both bursting out loud. Tears in Michael’s eyes from laughing so much, a light in Brian’s as he continued to indulge one of his favorite sports. Watching Michael be Mikey….
As time passed, the laughter waned and the soothing warmth of the room, the food and the pot started to settle over Michael - his eyes closing on the brink of sleep; Brian leaned in and murmured against his ear.
His words calling Michael back quickly.
“It’s time, Michael.” Brian pulled Michael up onto his feet, holding him. “Time to set the stage.” A kiss, then another. “Someone got all dirty without me today.” He traced the dried clay on Michael’s skin. “So I think you should grab a quick shower, and I’ll finish cleaning up.” When Michael turned to leave, Brian again held onto his hand. “I want you back stripped, Michael. Completely bare, except for these.” His fingers lingering on the cuff before Michael agreed.
Voice a whisper, “Yes, sir.” And then Michael walked away, looking back at Brian again before he shut the door.
- - - - - - -
“Brian?”
Turning at the sound of his name, Brian found Michael standing nude - skin rosy and warmed from his shower. Standing and staring at Brian with a mix of pleasure and surprise.
Brian held out his arms, hips cocked and eyes hungry, letting Michael get the full view. “You like?”
Michael clenched his fists, feeling the effect of seeing the way Brian was dressed. Feeling the burn of memory revisited…. His eyes dark and his breathing just this side of unsteady, Michael could only nod as he answered, “It’s even better the second time around.”
Clad in the same clothes he’d worn just a short time ago to the Leather Ball, Brian lowered his hands and hooked his thumbs over the top of the waist-less brown leather pants, pulling them down just a fraction lower than there was really room to go . . . the hint of brown curls, illicit in a way that made Michael’s gut clench. As did the exposed patch of skin showing below the tight silk brown sleeve-less tee Brian was wearing.
“Just a step back before taking a leap forward.” Brian mused, walking slowly, provocatively closer. “I enjoyed dressing you that night. Still do. Dressing you, undressing you. But tonight I’m giving you something else. Something that once you have, you aren’t to remove.” He smiled. “Not without permission.” Stopping just an inch away, he said, “Day and night. In public and at home, aside from showering and the gym, it stays on.”
For Michael, knowing what was going to happen paled to the reality of knowing it was happening now….
He remained caught, rooted to the spot by the power of Brian’s eyes and the empowerment of his voice. And all he could think to say was the one word that had come to mean everything, “Always.”
A nod, then Brian’s face grew serious. “And in all ways, mine.” Circling around to stand at Michael’s back, he placed a kiss on Michael’s neck - his hands smoothing up the line of his throat. “Close your eyes.”
Hardly a sound followed as Michael complied; his rapidly beating heart was the only thing he heard for the longest. And while it only lasted a moment, the wait creped on and on - one everlasting tick at a time.
Then it was done, sure and fast - one minute bare and the next not….
Michael fought to keep his eyes closed but the moment he felt the presence of Brian’s gift, it was all he could do to keep still. So he focused on the feel, the weight, the hold of the leather as it touched his skin. Unlike the collar he’d worn the night before, it wasn’t at all constrictive or restraining. Light, supple and smooth instead, it moved well as Michael turned his head.
A hand taking his, Brian was at his side. “Keep ‘em closed.”
“I want to see.”
Sounding fond, but amused, “You will. Just trust me.”
“I do.”
A pause, and then Brian answered back, “I do, too.”
It was an oath, a vow to a question not asked, but nonetheless made.
Legs feeling a little weaker than before, Michael held tight to Brian’s guiding hand until they stopped a few short steps later.
“Have a look, Mikey.”
The image reflected back in the mirror of the well lit bathroom struck Michael at first sight. Brian, beautiful at his back. Himself, staring forth with something akin to awe. But nothing held more fully in his mind, and heart, than the gift he wore. The tangible evidence of Brian’s claim.
The collar was sleek, stylish and with one look - most assuredly custom made. Choker style, but fit to his neck like it had been measured with comfort and care. It was square cut, edges smoothed, with alternating black leather and platinum links. About an inch and a half squared, each leather length was held attached to the next by three parallel platinum clasps stacked one on top of the other. And so it went, leather - platinum - leather - platinum - leather. The pattern following thus throughout, until they met in the back - two leather squares clasped together with a hidden slip hook. The collar built for beauty, but made for endurance and strength.
But for Michael, who thrilled at the sight of Brian’s gift, it was something more than all this that made the collar truly theirs. Truly intimate and uniquely Brian….
Sewn in the center of each leather square was a remnant of their past, and of one night that had solidified their bond - a bond that had lasted more than half their lives. A shell; each taken from the bracelet Brian had worn everyday since Michael had given it to him so many years ago. A total of five in all…. Taken from the original seven.
And then, one last touch.
Hanging from the center square, placed at the base of Michael’s throat was a platinum medallion. Flat and round, it lay cool against his skin; polished to shine. And with a closer look, also engraved. An italicized “A” on the front….
“Flip it up.” Brian’s voice pulled Michael’s eyes away from the collar; their gazes meeting in the glass for a moment - the look profound, before he did as Brian said.
On the back was one word….
“Always.” The two men speaking together, their voices melding as Michael again caught Brian’s eye. His own shining with emotion, as Brian pulled him round and into a kiss.
A kiss Michael poured himself into, hands buried in Brian’s hair as he rose up on his toes for more.
Humming his pleasure at Michael’s enthusiasm, Brian pulled back with a low chuckle. His eyes warm, a smile breaking as he laughed. “I take that to mean you like it.”
Michael reached up and ran his fingers over the collar. “It’s fantastic. I can’t believe, how did you…. It’s, I… You are amaz….”
“Amazing, I know.” Brian grinned as Michael smiled back, watching as his lover turned to look in the mirror again. “It looks good on you.”
“When did you do this?”
“Tuesday. The artist is a friend of Declan. I drove down for it today.” Brian enjoyed watching Michael as he kept looking in the mirror, touching the collar again and again. “It’s something that will pass as a necklace to most. But to you and me, it means you’re mine.” He caught Michael’s hand, turning him again. “Yes?”
Michael licked his lips, agreeing - his voice sure and glad. “Yes.”
Nodding his head back in the direction of the bedroom, Brian said, “Then there’s just one last thing to do.”
He guided Michael back to the fire, before stepping away to grab one of the two jewelry boxes resting on the dressing table that Michael hadn’t seen. Brian pointed to the larger box that he’d left. “It’s for your collar, on the few occasions you have it off when not at home. It has a combination lock built in.” Returning, Brian gave Michael the smaller box. He didn’t say anything else, just waited for Michael to open it.
Inside was another work of art; one that matched Michael’s collar perfectly. A cuff, again in black leather with a three inch span like the ones Michael was wearing. But with differences; centered and sewn into the leather was a platinum oval framed on either side by the last of the remaining shells from Brian’s bracelet. The oval itself was engraved in the same italics as Michael’s collar. But instead of the “A,” there were two initials entwined - one placed slightly higher than its mate. “M” and “B” - with the “M” being the one on high.
“Brian, it’s beautiful. Thank you.” He offered up his wrist for Brian to unbuckle the cuff so it could be replaced, only to have Brian shake his head.
“No, Michael. I’ve made my claim.” Brian held out his right hand, palm up. “Now it’s time for you to make yours.”
Michael looked from Brian to the cuff, and back - eyes large and mouth parted as what Brian was offering crystallized in his mind. “Really?”
Brian moved in closer, “If I’ve learned anything this past week, it’s that a claim is never one sided. If you’re mine, then I’m….”
“Mine.” Feeling a bit shaken, but anticipatory like someone putting the last puzzle piece in place, Michael pulled the cuff free and sheathed Brian’s wrist inside. Buckling it into place, before turning his hand to see. Michael stood, overwhelmed that it looked so right against Brian’s skin. The perfect fit, like it was meant to be all along.
Michael felt almost like he was floating, looking down from above at the wonder of seeing them together in a way that no one could have predicted. “This feels so….”
Brian nodded, the rush of the moment introducing a new kind of high as he stood the beneficiary of more than he ever knew he could want. “Intense.”
“Grown up, and….” Michael laughed, “Yeah, intense.” He leaned up, pressing a kiss against Brian’s mouth. Whispering true, “Love you.” Expecting Brian to only say his standard, ‘me too.’
Only to have Brian turn his already shaken world for a curve by saying instead, “I love you, back.”
Turning to catch Brian’s heavy lidded eyes, Michael asked, “Say it again.”
Hands coming up the frame Michael’s face, Brian brushed his lips to Michael’s own. “Love you.”
The kiss building, lips parting and a moan sounding in the air - Michael murmured softly. “Again….”
His time to whisper, Brian answered, “Let me show you instead.”
- - - - - - -
There is a place, between waking and dreams, were reality ebbs and perception kaleidoscopes. One touch feels like a thousand, and the line between what is real and imagined fades away.
For Michael, waking the next day was a slow process. He’d almost reach clarity, on the brink of opening his eyes, and then it would be lost again to a brief flash of what they’d done the night before. The sensation of Brian’s body against his, over his; the friction and slide of their skin. The sounds, rough and frantic then soft and murmuring. All these things floating in and out of his sleep-filled brain had Michael content to remain adrift, wrapped up in the warmth of Brian’s body and the sheets surrounding them.
And so they lay, hours passing until nature’s call and their own sense of playfulness had them awake and breathless once again. Michael muttered a protest when Brian reached back to remove the collar, settling down as Brian whispered that they needed to shower before meeting Dec and Ash for lunch.
“Just a quick in and out, and I’ll put it back once you’re dry.” Brian set the collar down on the bed, then his cuff before reaching to unfasten Michael’s cuffs. The process made difficult when Michael started laughing and rolled off the bed onto his feet. “What?”
“You even make taking a shower sound like sex.” Michael grinned, pulling off the leather at his wrists and throwing them onto the disarrayed bedding.
Rising, Brian stalked Michael around the bed - unhurried and with full confidence of his effect on Michael as he neared. “Who says the two are mutually exclusive?”
Stuttering as Brian caught him around the waist and held him captive and close, Michael managed, “Not…. Not me.”
Brian leaned in, kissing Michael slowly; his tongue passing into the heat of Michael’s mouth only briefly before he stopped. “After you….”
Michael cleared his throat, turning to go but not before throwing a look over his shoulder. “You just want to look at my ass.”
Drawing out each syllable, Brian agreed, “Absolutely,” before following right - well, behind.
- - - - - - -
The two barely made lunch; the shower having run long and wet.
Of course, Brian’s addition to Michael’s wardrobe had made them later still. Not the collar; it was fastened in place along with the cuffs quickly upon their return to the bedroom. No, it was another item that Brian had added underneath Michael’s clothing - jeans, tight, and long-sleeved black tee fitted - that caused the delay.
“Tell me how it feels.” Brian held Michael to his chest, standing at the smaller man’s back after having caught him just before they turned to head into the kitchen.
Michael gasped, and then shifted as Brian dropped a wandering hand to caress against the seam of his jeans. The fingers circling in, and then pressing down along his crease. Pushing against….
“Brian, please. I’m not going to be able to walk if you keep doing that.”
Brian laughed, the sound intimate and deep. “Not until you tell me, Mikey.”
Closing his eyes, Michael shivered and tried to keep his hips still as Brian continued to tease him. To tease the toy he’d placed inside; a plug made of clear acrylic, narrow at the base with an oval flange that pressed against Michael’s prostate as he moved. Or rather, as Brian continued to torment him. “It’s, ahhh. It’s hard, filling me… Fuck.”
Brian dropped his hand down, rubbing his palm against Michael’s groin. “You’re hard.” He released a satisfied hum, “I like that. I like knowing I can make you crazy like this.”
Michael slid his hand down Brian’s arm, stroking his fingers over Brian’s cuff. “You always made me this crazy; it’s just now I know you’ll do something about it.” He smiled even as he moaned.
“Oh trust me, it’s all I can do not to tear down your jeans and slid inside. Just like you want me to,” he groaned as Michael slipped a hand between his thighs, cupping Brian’s balls. “Shit, Michael. I’m teaching you too many of my tricks.”
“Who’s to say this isn’t one of my tricks.” Michael teased him back, turning the tables just a bit as he continued to move his hand.
The two were still caught up in the deadlock, when out of nowhere another’s voice caused them to turn their heads.
“My, my, my. And me without my popcorn.” Ashton was leaning against the entranceway, playing spectator for all he was worth. Looking relaxed in his navy sleep pants and white turtle neck. He walked over, pushing his sleeves up as he did - his tattoos showing.
Michael laughed as Brian pressed his face against his throat with a plaintive groan. Laughter that turned into a surprised gasp as Brian trailed his tongue along Michael’s skin, just below the collar. Dropping his wandering hand, Michael gave Brian a small shove; moving back with difficulty between the mix of his hard-on and the plug playing on his senses. “You are evil.”
Brian finally stepped back, smiling fondly. “You can bet that won’t make life boring.”
Michael glanced at Ash, the two men saying volumes with just a look. Both having had long experience with just how un-boring their lovers could be….
Ashton gave Brian a glance, then turned back to Michael. “I suggest taking vitamins, lots and lots of vitamins.”
He and Michael were still chuckling when Declan appeared, giving Ash’s bottom a pop. Which caused Ashton to jump half out of his skin. “Fucking hell, Dec. Owe.” He rubbed his bum, and stepped out of Declan’s reach. “I’ve been good. Just ask them.”
Brian interjected, “You‘re in America. Probably best to plead the Fifth.”
At Declan’s snort, Ashton reached out to take Michael’s hand and pulled him into the kitchen. “That’s right, have a go at me. It’s not like I’ve got an inch of butt left to burn.”
Still in the hall, Brian nodded at their retreating backs as he asked Declan, “Tell me, how has your hand NOT fallen off by now?”
Declan grinned back, speaking conspiratorially as he said, “Ash-wood paddles.” Seeing Brian shaking in head in amusement, Declan added. “I’m a proponent of irony.”
Chuckling, Brian said, “Perfect.”
They both turned quickly when they heard an exclamation from the kitchen, walking in the see what had caused the sound.
“It’s marvelous, Michael. God, you must be chuffed to bits! Hell, I’m chuffed just looking at it. Declan! Come see….”
Brian and Declan entered to find Michael smiling as Ash admired his collar. Dec walked over and looked for a long moment, before saying, “It’s a beautiful piece. One worthy of that smile.” He brushed the back of his fingers down Michael’s cheek, “He’s lucky to have you to wear it.”
Michael felt the sting in his eyes, dropping his gaze as he gave a nod of thanks for Declan’s graciousness. His hand rose to touch the leather at his throat, he looked up and said, “Thank you,” softly.
Declan asked, “For what?”
“For having us, for helping.”
Drawing Ash to his side, Dec smiled. “It’s been a pleasure. For us both.”
Brian came forward and encircled Michael’s waist - his own cuff shining in the light of the room. He nodded to Ash and Dec, saying his thanks in gesture rather than word.
Ash’s eyes caught the addition to Brian’s wardrobe and whistled, “They’re a matched set.” He looked at Declan, “Andre?”
The Irishman answered, “He’s the best.”
Michael looked up at Brian, smiling. “And Brian only likes the best.”
Brian pressed a kiss to Michael’s forehead, “Well, I do like you.”
Hugging Brian‘s arm, Michael said, “I kinda like you back.”
The moment ended with the uncontrollable rumbling of someone’s stomach….
“Opps, sorry.” Ashton pressed a hand to his stomach, grinning as the others laughed.
It served as a reminder to all that their lunch was growing cooler by the minute. So with a, “Gentlemen, shall we,” from Declan, they sat down to eat.
- - - - - - -
After an amusing turn at having lunch when two of the four present were having various problems keeping still, Ashton due to his hot buns and Michael due to the plug pressing just so inside - the pairs parted company for the afternoon. Ashton dragging Dec off for some quality sauna time, as Brian took Michael back to their room to play.
But not before Declan gave Michael the go ahead that “it” would be ready later that afternoon.
Having overheard the “it” reference, Brian spent a long while trying to wheedle, tickle, tease and then seduce the information out of Michael.
It was surprising to them both that Michael managed keep the secret through it all. But he’d learned a few methods of distraction of his own that helped.
And then, after most of the day was gone and they both were done-in enough for calmer things, Michael pulled away from Brian’s reaching hands and told him to get dressed. Smiling as he fastened his jeans and sidestepped the shirt Brian threw at his head, Michael asked, “Wanna play follow the leader?”
Brian languidly moved off the bed, scratching his flat belly. “Does it entail watching your ass move while I’m thinking lewd and lascivious thoughts?”
Snorting, Michael mused, “I’m amazed either of us has any higher brain function after the last couple hours.”
Brian pushed his long legs into his jeans, pulling them up but leaving them unbuttoned as he drew his sweater over his head. His voice sounding through the fabric before he’d fully cleared the neck, “That’s why they call sex mind-blowing, Mikey.”
It was only after he’d pulled the shirt down that Brian realized Michael had already raced out the door. Giving chase, Brian soon caught up to him on the first floor landing. He smiled as Michael teased, “Still working on catching that fifth wind?”
Brian grabbed Michael, tickling him as they both laughed. “The better to huff and puff you with.”
“Says my very own big bad wolf,” Michael could only shake his head, smiling at Brian as they came to a stop at the door to Declan’s studio. “You know you’re nuts, right?”
Intentionally misconstruing Michael’s words, Brian responded, “I’m intimately familiar with both of them, as are you.”
Michael whacked Brian on the arm as the taller man tried to pull Michael’s hand to his groin. “Stop,” he admonished. “Be good, and I’ll tell you what ‘it’ is.”
On the verge of laying in another pun, Brian stopped with one more look from Michael. He took on a fraudulently bashful expression and agreed, “I can be good. I can be very good.”
Voice intimate and soft, Michael said, “I know.” And then turning the knob, he opened the door and stepped through. Brian following inside. “I got to play studio assistant on Tuesday while Declan worked on his liquid dye series. And I thought you might like to see these. They’re shadow plays in black and white.” Michael turned on the backlight on Declan’s work table, placed a sheet of slides on top and handed Brian the magnifier lens. Grinning as he added, “Of Ashton.”
Ever the ad man, Brian bent to examine each slide one after the other. Giving each time and consideration, in silence and then looking up to say, “These are really good. He could be a professional. Print, galleries, the whole lot.” Giving a couple another look, Brian laughed. “Hell, he could give some of the guys in Ryder’s art department a run for their money.”
Michael had grown quiet, serious. “I thought you’d like them.”
Brian looked up to see Michael had moved to stand next to an easel, his arms hugged around his waist. Looking for all the world like he was nervous. “I do; they’re…. It’s like the longer you look, the more there is to see.” He walked to Michael’s side, putting an arm around his shoulders and pulling him in. “Michael, what’s….”
Michael interrupted, closing his eyes for only a moment before speaking. “I wanted to give you something, a gift. But I couldn’t think what, and then…. Then I saw those, saw what Declan could create and I asked. I asked him to help….”
When Brian started to ask what with, Michael reached out and pulled the white drape covering the easel, letting it drop to the floor as both men turned to look at what was featured on display.
The print, large - at least three feet square, was showcased in a black frame, black matte border and non-glare glass. But for all the attention to presentation, it was the photograph itself that was the most striking to the eye. Positioned on a pooled spill of black velvet was a man on his knees, back to the camera and resting back on his heels. Nude, his skin shone a brilliant white before the camera lens.
Shot at one quarter profile, his face was turned away from the viewer. His identity was additionally concealed by the angle of the lights from the side and overhead. The lights having been placed directly above, so that his face and upper torso were lost in the darkness that surrounded him. The resulting glow cascaded over his skin, down his back and over the curves of his behind and thigh - the detail so great that the rays were visible as they toughed him. And as they married back into the shadows playing along his opposite side and hip.
Drawn back and held bound, the man’s hands were crossed at the base of his spine. His submission shown in both the position of his body, and in the only adornment he wore against his skin….
A single silver chain that reflected with vibrancy, the links so delicate that they looked fragile. Falling down from around the man’s neck, it flowed along the length of his spine before being wrapped around his bare wrists. The message one of submission given, not forced. A choice made, and value known.
There were no details that screamed out who the man was, but with only a look….
“Michael, god. It’s….” Brian glanced at Michael, whose face was both pale and flushed, then back at the print. “That’s you.” Feeling Michael shifting away, Brian pulled him to stand in front and hugged him around the waist. Resting his chin on Michael’s shoulder, he continued to look at the photo. “It’s fucking amazing.”
Michael gave a nervous chuckle, “That’s what I said when I saw it. It feels a little unreal, like it’s not even me.”
Letting his eyes play over the image, Brian trailed his hand down over the curve of Michael’s hip then back over the curve of his ass. “Oh, it’s you alright. There’s no doubt.” He kissed the back of Michael’s neck, just below the collar. “And I know just the place I want it to go.”
Giving a groan, Michael said, “How about under the bed?”
“Oh, no fucking way. Nothing that hot should be hidden, collecting dust. It’s going up in the loft.”
Enjoying Brian’s vehemence despite his own qualms, Michael turned and smiled. “Only if you don’t tell everyone who sees it, that it’s me.”
Brian paused like he was thinking about it, then he said, “Officially, I ordered it from a gallery in New York.” He cupped Michael’s face, “Unofficially, it’s one of the greatest gifts I’ve ever gotten.” He kissed him, “Thank you, Mikey.
Kissing him back, Michael whispered, “You’re welcome.”
- - - - - - -
The rest of the evening progressed rather quickly, the four working together in the kitchen to prepare dinner. Homemade pizza, because it was Ashton’s favorite and the kitchen – at least for the evening, was his domain. Or rather, it was the battleground for his latent drill sergeant tendencies, as Declan told Brian and Michael after the three of them were assigned their duties and told to march to them: Declan on sauce duty, Michael cutting up vegetables and Brian handling the meat. And no, that last chore didn’t get assigned without a laugh passing at Brian’s expense. Not that he cared, since he was laughing the loudest.
Which left Ashton loaded for bear with making the dough. Which considering his vast experience with kneading clay, he felt he was best qualified for the job. “My ‘snatch, clean and jerk’ skills are legendary.”
Declan threw their guests a look, “Yeah, in his own head. And forgive the Rocky Horror reference. I think the last spanking may have rattled his brain.”
Needless to say, the meal, “came off – ha ha,” as Ashton said, with only a few hitches. All flour flicks and smudges of discipline considered.
It was only afterwards that Declan told them that he and Ash would be staying on for a few more days. His down time had been planned for two weeks, one at Havenshire and the other at home. But he’d decided to follow his muse and continue working on a new series of portraiture. One that veered away from shadow play, but was built instead around the form he’d discovered while doing Michael’s portrait.
Brian teased Michael, “Does that make you Serendipity?”
His answer was Michael’s elbow in his side, as their hosts looked on and laughed.
The couples parted ways for the night soon thereafter, but not before Michael gave Declan his thanks again for all he’d done to help with Brian’s gift. But the look in his eyes, and the message conveyed was more than that. It was a thank you for everything, for all the ways Declan had helped and all the ways he had guided them both, even as he’d left the way to their own choosing.
Declan‘s answer was a smile, small and with lips quirked before he said, “It’s been a joy, Michael. All of it…”
Feeling Brian hugging him from behind, Michael looked up in time to see Brian giving Declan a nod. A thank you from a man to which the words were foreign. Looking back Declan’s way, Michael grinned as he saw Ashton standing off to the side. Michael reached out and took his hand, pulling Ash in for a quick hug. “And you. Thanks for letting us horn in on your vacation.”
Ash laughed as Brian ruffled his hair before he could get away, “It’s been a blast. Despite the manhandling,” he said, shooting Brian a dark look that fell short on menace considering the merriment shining from his eyes.
Shaking his head, Declan drew Ash to his side and hugged an arm around his waist. “I happen to know you’re a big fan of manhandling, so hush.” Addressing Brian, he asked, “We’d like to see you two off; have you decided when you’re heading out?”
“Early, we have a lunch date to keep.”
Michael was surprised. “We do?”
Brian didn’t elaborate, just repeated, “We do.”
Good evenings were passed, and they all went to their rooms. Brian remained secretive, not answering Michael’s questions about Sunday’s plans. Instead, he pressed Michael down on the bed and set about driving him beyond the ability to think.
to be concluded - Part 11...
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From:
no subject
I loved the beginning, Michael and Ashton are great together, I love it when Ashton just shows up like that, it amuses me.
Nice, I like that Rage made its way in, and I love that Michael was working on it. lol.
I probably should have known where Brian had gone, but it didn't occur to me until he got back--then I so knew. lol. The pot and Chinese were a nice touch, I love when they are just themselves, chilling out and talking about old times. I love think that Michael laughs until he cries. I love that Brian waited just until Michael was about to fall asleep to present it to him.
And wow, it sounded so beautiful, amazing, I love the idea of the shells being used, and the medallion with 'Always'. Your words created an image in my head, and the way that you described it was breathtakingly beautiful. I loved it, very, very nice job there, hun. I also like that Michael gut’s to show his claim of Brian with the cuffs, which also sound beautiful by the way. It put this silly smile on my face. I just loved both of them, and I just have to tell you again what an amazing idea it was to use the shell. Completely brilliant. WONDERFUL job. :)
Brian said I love you!! *dies* I loved that, it was just so sudden and I’m sure that Michael didn’t expect it. I loved when Michael asked him to say it again, and then again. Wonderful.
Aw, Ashton likes to cook! I'm sure Brian is really good at handling the meat. ;)
You provided such good imagery in this chapter, because you got me once again with the picture of himself that Michael gave to Brian. The image in my mind was beyond amazing. I loved that Michael made Brian promise not to tell people it was him. lol. Also, lucky Brian, getting to see that everyday... of course he gets to have the real thing but you know... Also, I've said it before I think; this just plays out in my head like a movie, because of the wordings you use.
Oh.... who is this person they are meeting? Hmm, I think I might have an idea, but I’ll just have to wait and see! I can't wait until the next chapter! *bounces*
From:
no subject
Hugssss....
Yeah, it's kinda surreal that the fic is done, and that it's almost all posted....sigh.
I'm glad you enjoy this chapter - it was a lot of loose ends that needed fulfilling.... Speaking of which...there's part 11...lol.
hugs
xof
From:
no subject
That was so beautiful. The collaring... that made me cry. I was so amazing and emotional. And when Brian finally said that he loved him. My God... that was just. I might have to read that again. I always have this vision in my head of Brian finally saying the word and Mikey closing his eyes and just breathing the words in. And then asking him to say it "one more time." Your way was just as good.
I'm so happy for them... I know things won't be easy when they get home, but they have each other and their family will support them. I hope.
Thank you for this story...
God I need to reread it. ;)
From:
no subject
Lol... You're MORE than welcome to reread it as much as you like.
Hugs
xof
From:
no subject
“Ohhhh, it DOES go all the way down. Fabulous. Five shades deeper and we’ll be calling you Elmo.”
I love the interaction between Ash and Michael. I love their teasing, and the mention of Ash being the bossiest slave on the planet. And Deb's concussing headslaps! I also loved the "Ghost", "Rocky Horror" and "Dogma" references. Yeay for pop culture!
I'm glad Michael hasn't just forgotten about "Rage", and that when Brian came back, he brought Chinese and pot. "Just like old times". And oh man, Brian's dumb jokes and clothing from the Leather Ball. The collaring scene was very well-written and just as important as it should be. I loved that the collar has the shells in it from Brian's bracelet, and Brian's cuff has the initials engraved on it. The jackass can be so damn sweet sometimes, right?
There is a place, between waking and dreams, were reality ebbs and perception kaleidoscopes. One touch feels like a thousand, and the line between what is real and imagined fades away.
That part brought me right back to your "Dream" series, and Sandman. Gah. Must go read again after I finish this review.
Ahem. Love Ash and his popcorn. And the vitamin crack. And Dec slapping his ass. I love Ash so much in general. He's so adorably snarky. He may just be my new favorite character. But then I read the part with Michael's gift, and the picture. Very hot, and it needs to go up in the loft.
Hmmm . . . a lunch date? Would this by chance involve Emmett, Ted, and/or Deb? I hope the gang back in Pittsburgh doesn't throw a wet blanket on our boys. Still can't believe we've only got one more part to go.
Wonderful chapter, Xof! Loved it, as always. In suspense for the conclusion . . .
From:
no subject
Hehe...everyone loves Ash. Poor Declan is being left behind...pout...lol.
So very happy that you're still as in love with the fic as you were from part 1....
hugs
xof
From:
no subject
What a wonderful part. I loved the collar and matching cuff. They are very personalized and that is wonderful. I like how Brian didn't feel confined to having a traditional collaring ceremony but one done more to the style of their relationship.
I love all the intereactions between the 4 of them. I will miss Dec and Ash once the story is over. I have really grown to love them too throughout this story. So sad it is almost over.
Better get back to why I'm supposed to be online. huggles
Ill try to give my full comments Thursday.
huggles
From:
no subject
I appreciate your taking the time to comment, darlin!
Thank you!
hugs
xof