December 7

CRIME

Navy NCIS - Ducky/Gibbs/Dinozo

Author: BuffyAngel68
Title: La Vie En Rose
Rating: NC-17
Pairing: Gibbs/Dinozo/Ducky
Summary: Tony may think he hates Christmas parties, but this year will most definitely change his mind...
Show: NCIS - Crime Show
Date of publication: Dec 7th
Disclaimer: I don't own them, ya'll know that. If I did, Gibbs would've lost that stick up his butt to either a Dom Clay Webb or Dom A.J. Chegwidden a loooong time ago. Then again, maybe that's WHY Jethro's so disciplined and controlled.... <eg>
Feedback address: buffyangel68@yahoo.com
Advertisement: Part of the Slash Advent Calendar of 2004 at http://www.kardasi.com/Advent/2004/SAC-2004.htm 
Beta: Tequila Worm

%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%

La Vie En Rose ---

Hold me close and hold me fast
The magic spell you cast
This is la vie en rose

When you kiss me, Heaven sighs
And though I close my eyes
I see la vie en rose

When you press me to your heart
I'm in a world apart
A world where roses bloom

And when you speak
Angels sing from above
Everyday words
Seem to turn into love songs

Give your heart and soul to me
And life will always be
La vie en rose....

%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%

"Look, just back off, okay? I am not, I repeat *not* going to the division Christmas party!"

"That's fine. I accept your decision. All I wanna know is why," Kate Todd insisted, smirking faintly as she engaged in one of her favorite pastimes; torturing Tony Dinozo.

"Why do you care?"

"I'm an investigator, it's in my nature. Talk, Dinozo."

Tony expelled a frustrated sigh as he rose from his chair and faced down his tormentor.

"I don't wanna and you can't make me," he growled, turning to walk away. His colleague wasn't even close to finished, however.

"What, you choked on a candy cane once? Shiny wrapping paper and ribbons make you sneeze? Wait, I know. You got scared of Santa as a kid. Your parents took you to see him and you got pushed headfirst down a big slide like in that movie...."

"Kate... enough."

"I could keep spouting theories until the top of your head blows off or you can 'fess up. Your choice."

Tony whirled around, a fierce smile on his face.

"Fine. You really *have* to know why I hate this holiday and all the parties that go with it? Listen good. First, there's the getting dressed up, which, without fail, leads to throwing away perfectly good clothes when someone spills some pot luck delicacy on me that even the dry cleaner's can't get out of my best suit.
Then there are the women, most of whom hate the fact that I prefer to initiate the flirting, and after five minutes, won't go near me for the rest of the night.
Oh, and of course there's the gift exchange. I love getting cheap cologne sets and yet *another* leatherette wallet I won't use, all because the spending limit has been stuck at five bucks since 1963.
If everything goes according to schedule, about ten o'clock I end up dragging my butt home alone, where I contemplate whether it would be worse for my health to drink the cologne or the eggnog in my fridge that's three days past its prime. That... is why I hate Christmas parties. Are we happy now, Kate?"

The woman in question stared at him, incredulous, but she could come up with no retort. Luckily, their supervisor had been standing a few feet off, listening to the whole exchange and he was never one to be at a loss for words.

"Good God, Dinozzo. Keep spreading your brand of holiday cheer and we'll end up spending Christmas Eve in the morgue drinking bad whiskey and talking to the dead bodies," Jethro Gibbs tossed out as he approached the pair.

Tony turned and produced a tight smile.

"Compared to the division party, that sounds like a really good time."

Gibbs smiled back, but it was his eyes Tony was focused on. There he found no quarter as far as continued joking was concerned.

"Uh-huh. Go check with Ducky on the status of the Jamison autopsy."

"Right. Gone," Tony replied as he moved away toward the elevator.

"I expected nothing less," Gibbs stated firmly as he dropped into the chair behind his desk. Kate tilted her head slightly and studied the older man for a moment.

"Lemme guess, boss. You're not a big fan of Christmas either?"

"I love Christmas. I hate what it does to everybody else."

"Which would be..."

"People get distracted, they get drunk and they get hung-over. They bring the distractions and the hang-overs to work and they can't do their jobs."

Kate placed one hand on her chest and gaped in mock horror.

"When have you ever seen me drunk, or worse, hung-over?"

"You really want me to answer that, Kate?" Gibbs asked, looking directly into her eyes. As usual, she found herself looking elsewhere after a few seconds, unable to withstand the intensity of his gaze.

"Obviously not."

"Good decision," he told her, turning back to his own monitor. "How's it coming with those financial records we got off Lt. Jamison's hard drive?"

----------------------

When Tony made it down to the morgue, he found the resident ME silently contemplating a pair of cardboard cutouts, trying to decide which to attach to his wall. Tony grinned as he walked up behind his friend.

"Hmmm. Frosty of the limited intelligence, or Snoopy on ice skates with a weird hat. Not exactly the lady or the tiger, now is it?"

"Yes, well you might laugh, dear boy, but I've been told I can only put up one and I can't decide. The beagle does convey an appealing sense of freedom and whimsy, but the snowman just seems so.... traditional, and one must occasionally bend to tradition, mustn't one?"

Tony grinned even wider.

"Too true. I've got an idea. Tack up one out here and the other in your office. Nobody'll ever have to know but us and you know I'd never squeal."

A smile blossomed on Ducky's face as he turned a grateful gaze on Tony.

"No. I don't believe you would. Excellent idea. The beloved beagle is the one for the office, I think. Would you mind giving me a hand putting it up?"

"Sure. Why not? Oh, but I need an update on the Jamison post before I leave or Gibbs will tan my hide."

"Trust me, he won't. It isn't his style. Not at all." Ducky answered cryptically. Tony wanted to ask what he meant by the remark, but the other man kept talking. "So, will we be seeing you at the party this year? Be forewarned that as the newest participant and therefore low man on the totem pole, so to speak, it would be your responsibility to bring refreshments." Ducky said as he shuffled through his desk looking for tape. Tony grimaced.

"I'll tell you what I already told Kate. The division Christmas party is the last place I feel like going. Count me out."

Ducky straightened, tape in hand and studied Tony for a long moment before correcting his assumption. "Oh.... oh no, my boy. I went to that morose affair once and I completely agree with your assessment. I was referring to my personal holiday soiree. Quite a different matter entirely. What do you think? Is this all right or should it go a bit higher?" he asked, handing Tony the tape and positioning the decoration on his wall in preparation for securing it.

"Uhhh... it's fine right there. Ducky..."

"Good. Would you... yes, perfect. Steady now.... Ah. Very festive, don't you think?"

"Santa would approve. Now, about this party..."

"You do want to come, I assume?"

Tony considered carefully before responding.

"No happy "sounds of the season" music that'll make me wanna puke?"

"Absolutely not. One hears it everywhere else this time of year. Why allow it into one's home?"

"No kids?"

"Oh, no! My parties are strictly for adults," he said with a mischievous smile.

"Sounds good to me. I'll be there. What am I supposed to bring?"

"One or two six packs of your favorite imported brew, something that crunches that you think we might all enjoy, a change of clothes and yourself, of course. That should be more than sufficient."

"A change of clothes?" Tony echoed skeptically.

"A necessity I'm afraid. My get-togethers have been known to last several hours.... sometimes until the next morning. I provide wash-up facilities, towels and toiletries, but not clothes. I rarely get them back, you see," he murmured off-handedly as he examined Snoopy critically

Tony pushed aside the strangeness of Ducky's comments and focused instead on the anticipation beginning to build inside him.

"Oooo-kay. I should get going. Gibbs'll be calling down here looking for me and that's never a good thing. You got that..."

"Oh, yes. The autopsy results. Right here."

"Thanks. When is this little shindig happening anyway?"

"This weekend. Approximately seven o'clock on Friday night, to be exact. You have the address? Know how to find your way?"

"No problem. See ya then."

"Yes. I'm quite looking forward to it."

-----------------------------

FRIDAY EVENING:

"You did what?"

"Come now, Jethro. You can't tell me you haven't at least considered it. The boy is an excellent investigator, but he can be reckless with his own safety. I've heard you grumble about it any number of times. This will be good for him."

"He happens to be one of my *best* investigators, and I don't feel like losing him."

"You're so sure he'll react badly to our idea of a pleasant evening? I really think you do him a disservice."

"We'll see," Gibbs murmured just as the doorbell rang.

"Yes, we will. Immediately, it seems," Ducky remarked, eagerness coloring his voice and shining from his face as he went to answer the bell. Gibbs followed, standing to one side so that the opening door would hide him as Tony entered the house. Quietly, he slipped a bandana from his pocket and held one end in each hand. He had intended to surprise Ducky with it later in the evening, but he was nothing if not adaptable, especially when given incentive to be.

"Tony! Welcome, my boy, welcome. Come in. Ah, I see you have good taste in both beer and food. Excellent. Let me relieve you of that burden..." Ducky said, taking the cases and bags from Tony and heading to the kitchen, leaving the younger man at Gibbs' mercy.

"Glad I could contribute. Hey, am I... early? You did say seven, right?"

"I did indeed. Have no fear, you're right on time."

"That's a reli... Hey! What the..."

"Relax, Dinozo. Everything's just fine." Jethro observed evenly, knotting the bandanna behind Tony's head. "Nothing's gonna happen that you don't agree to. I'm just hopin' I can coax that agreement outta you before the night gets too much older."

"If he becomes overly skittish you still have me, dearest," Ducky commented wryly as he re-entered the living room, goosing Gibbs as he passed. His victim jumped slightly and chuckled.

"Tony... Look, it's up to you. You can join in or not, but.... I should tell you right off that he's in playful mode tonight. Playful mode always means a damn good time.... Whadda you say, hmmm?" he asked, gliding his hands up and down over Tony's shoulders and biceps.

"God... I don't... what are you asking? What is it you want me to do?"

"First, give me a yes or no."

"If... if I say yes?"

"It just means you accept the invitation, that's all. It doesn't mean you'll get forced into anything. How far you go is your choice. So? Feel like staying?"

"Holy... I mean... It never crossed my... hell, that's a lie. I admit I've always wondered... you know, what the... attraction was...."

"Dinozo. Stay and play, or head for the hills? Make up your mind."

"Uhhh... if you guys are serious... yeah, I'll stay."

"Wonderful." Ducky enthused quietly. "Do you want the honors or shall I, Jethro?"

"Both. I'll take the top, you do the bottom."

"You're sure? Usually you prefer..."

"Go on. Think of it as your Christmas present."

"What a thoughtful gift. I'm usually one for slowly peeling back the tape so as to preserve the paper, but I might just make an exception this one time...."

Gibbs smirked then leaned in to speak softly, but firmly, in Tony's ear.

"Just one rule, here, okay? Stand still. Shivering, shaking... all that's acceptable, but keep the feet planted and the hands at your sides. Got it?"

"Yeah. I... I understand."

"Good."

Efficiently, Gibbs tugged Tony's dress shirt free of the waistband of his jeans and slid his hands under the loosened cotton, pressing and massaging lightly along his spine and up to his shoulders. Gradually, he felt the strain and apprehension melting out of the younger man's body. As Ducky divested Tony of one item of clothing after another, Gibbs employed the massage and his voice as effective distractions. "Atta-boy, Dinozo. That's great... stay relaxed. If we go too fast, you just say the word and we'll give you all the time you need to catch your breath."

"Huh? Fast? No... no, it's... it's fine..." Tony responded muzzily, only half aware that his jeans were in a heap on the floor beside his right foot and his briefs were about to join them.

"Step out, Tony. There's a good man.... my heavens. Jethro, have a peek. He's quite lovely..."

Gibbs did as requested and smiled wickedly.

"He is at that. Nice package, Tony."

"Nice? He's magnificent," Ducky corrected as he rose to his full height. He and Gibbs kissed briefly over the newcomer's shoulder.

"Careful. We want his dick to swell, not his head."

"Indeed." the coroner remarked, arching an eyebrow. "May I, Tony?"

"May you... oh. Touch me... yeah. It's okay..."

"You can say no. It's your decision."

"I get that. I... I need you to... please."

"Since you ask so nicely.... Remember, try to stay still. Participation will be encouraged later, but just now all that's important is that you listen to instructions and do as you're asked. Understood?"

Tony nodded. "Good. Now, I want you to decide on two safe-words. One to be used if you need the proceedings to slow down a bit, and one to be used only if you're in severe pain or another physical emergency arises." Ducky told him, sliding a hand through the tails of Tony's shirt and gently wrapping one hand around his already rising cock.

"O-okay."

"Tell me."

"Ummm... lion... if I need a minute... tin man if I'm... hurt."

"Duly noted. Jethro?"

"I heard. Lion and tin man."

As gentle hands stroked, squeezed and pumped his growing erection, Tony found the pleasure like nothing he'd ever felt. No one had ever taken so much care to be sure he was getting every bit of possible ecstasy out of the experience before it was over. Tears welled in his eyes and he tried to hold back the verbal expression of his joy, but it could not be repressed. He sagged slightly, his head dropped back to rest against Gibbs' body and he released a strangled word or two.

"God.... oh... mmnnnh..."

"That's it, Tony. Good... You know... I've always wondered if your voice'd go deeper... or higher when you came... I had a suspicion it'd be deep. I love it when I'm right..."

"Never... been this... this hard... can't believe..."

"Yeah, well, Ducky's got magic hands. They've never failed me, at least. You're gettin' close?"

"Hell yeah..." Tony ground out, fighting to keep his hands down. The temporary loss of his sight had made every sound and sensation more intense and the urge to reach out and touch one of his play captors was so strong his knuckles and wrists ached with the effort of restraining himself. A moment later, however, that slight pain was buried and forgotten as a powerful orgasm energized his body and pushed a grunt and a vivid curse from his lips.

He felt Ducky disengage and leave the room for a few minutes then the sound of the refrigerator door opening and closing reached his ears. Panting for breath, Tony gratefully accepted a sip from the cool bottle of beer that was pressed to his lips a few seconds later. When he lifted a trembling hand to take the bottle himself, that hand was gripped tightly and clamped to his thigh by Gibbs.

"Ah-ah. Hands at your side, remember?"

"Right... sorry, boss. It's just... my mouth... it always gets so damn dry after I come. I need more..."

Ducky fed him more of the soothing liquid, in two or three small doses, until the bottle was half empty.

"Better?" the older man asked, placing the bottle on a nearby table.

"Much. Thanks. Hey... what's that music? Is that... i don't think it's English, is it?"

"No. French. Edith Piaf, actually. She's been one of my favorite singers since I was a boy."

"What is she saying?"

"Walk with me. I'll give you a rough translation as we go..."

The other two urged Tony to move forward and, together, guided him into the bedroom, Ducky talking softly as they went. Tony's shirt was stripped away and he was laid on the bed, bandanna still securely in place. He heard rustlings and faint metallic noises that he assumed were the result of Gibbs and Ducky getting undressed, but they talked only to each other. A few minutes later the bed dipped under their combined weight as they climbed up on either side of the younger man.

A startled sound burst from Tony when he felt warm, supple skin pressed against his body from ribcage to knees. He was suddenly enfolded by heat and scent and the entrancing combination pushed his brain a little closer to being utterly fogged in. He moaned quietly and arched his neck a little.

"Easy, pretty boy." Gibbs soothed. "Nothing you don't say yes to first, remember? Just tell us what you want... how far you're ready to go..."

"You're such a beautiful man, Tony..." Ducky added, murmuring damply into Tony's ear. "I'd dearly love it if this night ended with one or both of us finding his way inside you... I can't even begin to imagine how good it would feel, but you must decide..."

"Holy seduction, Batman..." Tony forced out. "I... I want that. I didn't know I would... or could, but... I wanna feel that... just one question."

"Mmm-hmm."

"Can I move my hands, now? Out in the living room... not being able to touch you guys was driving me crazy!"

Gibbs laughed and locked lips briefly with his young lover.

"Yeah, now you can use your hands. Just go slow and follow our lead, okay?"

"You got it, boss. Or is it supposed to be something else? I mean... do I call you master, or sir... or what?"

"We don't play Domination/submission. This is strictly for mutual pleasure. Names will do fine. I do kinda like Batman, though..." Gibbs admitted as he latched onto Tony's mouth again. The kiss was light and easy at the start, but grew more determined and passionate as the newcomer began to get the idea and participated more actively. A few seconds later, hands began to caress Tony's calves and thighs, encouraging him to relax and let his legs fall open. It took him very little time to comply and he soon felt Ducky crawl over him, settling between his knees. The older man's immediate target, however, was Gibbs' spine and lower back, which he began to lick with fervor and joy. His human lollipop pulled away from Tony for a moment to comment, his voice low and rough.

"Ducks... God, you know what that does to me... but let's see pretty boy gets taken care of first, okay? You and me... we've got plenty of time..."

"Yes... All apologies. I simply couldn't resist."

"When can you ever? You wanna start gettin' him ready?"

"There's enough work to share, I think."

Tony giggled at the banter between the two men, but the laughter faded instantly when the first dribbles of cool lube touched tender skin. Laughter was replaced by groans, whimpers and low cries as he was opened, stretched and prepared, first by one set of hands then the other. At the first nudge of scorching, slippery, latex-clad flesh into his body, soft sounds became howls, but only for a short time. Soon he was expelling breathy words of encouragement as Gibbs drove their bodies together time and again.

"God, yes... Oh... oh, hell... I'm gonna... I have to come, now..."

Ducky took his cue and deep-throated Tony just as Gibbs found his release deep within the younger man's body. Tony shrieked and poured his essence down his other partner's throat. None of the three men spoke or moved for several minutes, but eventually Gibbs gently retreated and rose from the tangle of sweaty flesh, moving into the nearby bathroom. When he returned, Ducky was quietly talking Tony down. Thanks to a warm, damp cloth, all three men were relatively clean in a few minutes and ready to settle in for a short rest. As he drifted to sleep, Gibbs grinned, anticipating what lay ahead when he awoke.

-------------------

MONDAY MORNING: NCIS

"I can't be hearing right. Tony Dinozo humming Christmas carols? Will wonders never cease?"

"I don't think they're about to, no. At least I hope not."

"Well, hell's bells. What turned your attitude around so fast?"

"A Christmas party. God, I love Christmas parties."

"You do?"

"Absolutely."

"Well? Details!"

"I don't think so." Tony countered wistfully, rising to his feet and batting her softly in the head with a nearly empty manila folder. "It's not for public discussion. All I can really tell you is I have a new philosophy."

"And that would be?"

"C'est vraiment une vie merveilleuse, dear Katelyn. C'est vraiment une vie merveilleuse." he told her before strolling off toward another part of the office. Kate turned to look at Gibbs, confusion ruling her expression. He grinned and translated.


"He said 'It really is a wonderful life'."

END

ORIGINAL

Cole/Mint

Author: Amaretto
Title: At the Corner of Gumdrop and Candy Cane
Pairing: Cole/Mint
Rating: G
Series: Original
Summary: A snippet of the life of two elves in North Pole City
Date of publication: 12/08/04
Disclaimer: All characters and the story herein belong to me.
Feedback address: amasour@msn.com
Beta: rykaine, kantras, starparty
Note: Part of the Slash Advent Calendar of 2004 at:
http://www.kardasi.com/Advent/2004/SAC-2004.htm

At the Corner of Gumdrop and Candy Cane

Hustle and bustle was the name of the game on Gumdrop Lane. It was impossible to avoid bumping into someone, or being crashed into. The shoemakers smiled at passerby from the warmer side of their shop window, before bending once more over their shoes. Next door a seamstress and her fluttering assistants danced among clients, fixing last minute gowns and brushing new velvet coats. Beside them was a trove of gold and silver and priceless gems, as a smiling old elf entranced men and women alike with the splendor of his jewelry.

The baker's daughter called out to passerby, pressing bits of warm cinnamon-apple bread into those few hands not over laden with packages. Most smiled and nodded thanks, a few ignored her completely, and more than a few decided they needed to buy an entire loaf.

People crossed the street haphazardly, dodging bikes and pets with the practiced ease of all those who patronized the always busy stores of Gumdrop Lane. Whistles, shouts, names and well wishes filled the street with cheerful noise.

Several weary elves from the toy factory arrived at Gumdrop by way of Cinnamon Street, walking into the crowd and flowing along with it until they reached the oak and glass door that was the entrance to the Dancing Frost tavern. Greetings were exchanged as they hung up their coats and hats, called to the ones already seated. Barely had they sat down before Jack had their drinks, knowing somehow what each of his patrons wanted before they did. Weariness faded as camaraderie rose up, and the elves exchanged stories of the day - mishaps and aggravating bosses and the insulting of the sad elf's brand new ex.

Across the way was the Snowbound Book Shoppe. An elf chatted with the old clerk at the counter, and children giggled and spoke in hushed whispers at the magazine rack. Another elf fretted over a selection of books, unable to decide which to purchase, or if her husband would be terribly upset if she bought them all.

Carroll's Candy Shoppe was hidden beneath a mass of children of all ages; the youngest slipping between and under the older ones while a fresh-faced youth bought honey drops for his beaming girlfriend. The noise was deafening to those inside the shop, and nearly so for those close to it. Silver Belle's Music Shoppe was next door, only a fourth as full but just as noisy. But the inhabitants and visitors to Gumdrop Lane had long grown used to the cacophony and none bore it any mind.

The crush from the candy shoppe spilled onto the street and wrapped around the corner; the children who could not fit inside smooshing themselves against the window, crowding the corner sidewalk that connected Gumdrop Lane to Candy Cane Way.

Candy Cane Way was much calmer. The only excitable visitors it saw were those at the corner, bleeding out from Gumdrop. Much more composed were the elves who traveled up and down Candy Cane, stopping off to return books to the North Pole City Library before going next door for a quiet cup of tea.

Men and women in expensive suits stepped out of their firms and banks, smoothing jackets and twitching skirts, walking carefully along sidewalks discreetly brushed clean by street sweepers. An elf in a dapper gray suit flagged down a hackney that looked brand new, driven by two perfectly matched horses whose coats seemed more silver than gray. Others stood stiff, impatient, as they waited for their private carriages to be brought 'round.

The focal point of the stern street was the massive building that dominated the left side, only a few blocks down from the intersection with Gumdrop. It was four stories, the only building that high on the street. Elaborate and stylish in a rigid, sophisticated way, made of dark red brick and rich, deep woods. Subdued gold lettering stretched across the front:

Clause & Kringle
Christmas

The building showed the only signs of constant, busy activity. Disgruntled looking men and women flowed in and out, swearing and muttering beneath their breaths. Clerks dashed about delivering packages of the utmost importance to and from Mssr. Kringle and Clause and their associates.

Inside was chaos, at first glance. People walked, paced, or even ran in all directions in the lobby. Talking anxiously to the secretaries, dashing to the elevators or whipping by other elves to get out of the building. It was at least as busy as the candy shoppe, with none of the friendliness and plenty of anger.

On the next few floors, clerks ran to and fro with papers as secretaries fought and wrangled with furious, red-faced individuals. Other visitors shifted impatiently in waiting areas, glancing at their watches, at the papers in their hands, at the secretaries and clerks, back to their watches.

On the fourth floor, where the crush was thinned not at all, a hassled young elf tried not to scrunch down in his chair in an effort to ward off the venomous glares of the woman seated across from him. Not an elf, but more human in appearance, her frown was fierce enough to melt even the implacable ice that walled the city. She jabbed a pink-nailed finger at the sheaf of papers in her hand. "Did you even read this? Did you see? Rubbish, I tell you!"

"Madame, I assure you -"

The woman cut off the poor clerk, her colorful words and curses giving pause to those in the nearby vicinity.

The clerk's cheeks turned bright red with embarrassment, "Madame! There's no call to issue such inappropriate threats. I promise you, we were more than fair. If you'll look at pages twenty-two and forty-three, you'll see that we exempted Bernie Tavris in several instances. We were more than generous, given the long list of violations. But I'm afraid that in the end he simply had too many transgressions, and we were forced to declare him Naughty. If you could please just sign--"

"I won't sign this garbage! Outrage! I want to speak to the man who made this outlandish decision. I assure you that my charge is not Naughty; he is simply an enthusiastic young boy. I demand--"

"Madame, I'm sorry. All decisions are final and cannot be changed after the third of December, unless there are extenuating circumstances. Which, I'm afraid--"

"Outrage! I am a guardian angel, and I'm telling you that my charge is not Naughty. You are merely incompetent and I will speak to your manager right this instant!"

Cole stifled the urge to throw his own voluminous stack of papers in her face and shout "I quit!" at the top of his lungs. In this din? They wouldn't hear him anyway. He suppressed another long suffering sigh, "Madame, I'm afraid my supervisor is in a meeting at this time. December is a very busy time for us and---"

"I would imagine so, if you spend the rest of your time contriving lies like this! An insult, I tell. I won't take this sitting down. I DEMAND to SPEAK to your MANAGER right NOW. Am I making myself clear?"

"Crystal," Cole muttered.

"What was that?" the angel narrowed her eyes.

"I said, Madame, that I would call him if I could. But he's in an important meeting right now. And as I tried to tell you before, he would only tell you the same as I have - that decisions are final as of December third. As there are no extenuating circumstances in the case of your client, I am afraid that this year he has been declared Naughty and therefore will not be entitled to any presents from Messieurs Clause and Kringle this Christmas. Again, I humbly apologize--"

The angel's response was a ringing slap across Cole's right cheek, sending his reading glasses skittering across the red and green marbled floor to be lost in the crowd and trod beneath a careless foot. Around them the entire floor froze.

Cole was motionless. His right cheek stung something awful, and he could just feel how red it was. No doubt he'd have a bruise in the morning. He glared at the angel for only a split second before standing up straight, adjusting his tie - a dark green one with gold snowflakes which was his favorite - grabbing his dark gray blazer from the back of his chair and walking calmly away from his desk and toward the employee lounge and lockers.

Noise broke out again as the door shut behind him, and Cole just caught the sound of his supervisor's smooth-as-silk voice. "I hope he gets slapped too," Cole muttered, sliding into his gray blazer before donning a forest green coat and dark gold scarf. "Damn it." He banged his head against the cold metal of his locker door, "Now I have to get new glasses. I just bought those!"

"Not a good day, Cole?"

"Huh?" Cole glanced up wearily to eye the plump, brown-haired woman who had spoken. Impatiently he blew whispy strands of black hair from his eyes, then brushed them irritably away. "Oh, it's you Cookie. Horrible day."

"Isn't every day in December?"

"Yes. If Holly comes around, tell him I quit."

"I don't think he'll mind your cutting out early, not after that erm…incident."

"Incident. I was assaulted. But I guess that's nothing too special," Cole touched his cheek, "That angel packs a wallop. Make sure you don't get too close."

"Don't worry."

"See you later then, Cookie. And I'm serious about quitting."

Cooke just laughed. "Bye, Cole." A brief hug and she was gone back to her own desk and long line of irate angels.

Cole peeked out the employee entrance into the elevator lobby, grimaced, and opted for the stairs. Moments later he was on the street and steadily making his way down it. Around him the patrons of Candy Cane flowed in the opposite direction, eager for quiet and not noise.

Cole's greatest secret and pleasure was that he too was in search of peace and quiet and he new exactly where to find it - at a small restaurant on the corner of Gumdrop and Candy Cane, where it was nigh on impossible that he would see anyway he'd recognize.

He'd found the place after a day much like today, after too many shouts and threats and colorful insults. He was sick of clients, of angels, of his fellows and had hurled himself as far away as he could get. And the very last place the patrons of Candy Cane Way would venture into was the garish and loud Gumdrop Lane. That one night he'd found the place - and he'd gone back nearly every night ever since.

Diagonally across from Carroll's Candy Shoppe was The Gingerbread Man, a warm and cozy restaurant for the shoppers and merchants of Gumdrop in need of a brief, calm respite. Visitors opened the door and were washed in the scents of a hundred different mouth-watering comfort foods, from the finest steaks and chicken, buttered corn and rich mashed potatoes to lavish cakes and plump pies.

And wading through it all with practiced ease was a waiter who never lost his smile, and never let even the sourest customer who entered leave until he too was happy. He was attending a table crowded with a weary but happy mother, a doting father and their three exuberant children, all chatting a mile a minute and showing him their fine toys and splendid candies. He beamed at each of them and patted their heads, all the while making notes on his pad as to what they all wanted for dinner - and dessert.

But even so occupied he was looking up and toward the door even before Cole could open it, and as the miserable clerk stepped inside the waiter was there to meet him and take his coat.

"Mint," Cole said with a soft sigh, the faintest trace of a smile soothing the tight lines of his face."

"Cole," Mint whispered warmly back, kissing his cheek and linking arms as he led his lover to the bar. "I'll have your food in a few minutes, let me finish up with the Gingersnaps."

"Of course," Cole's smile was more noticeable that time as he stole a real kiss. "Take your time. I'm happy just to see you."

Mint smiled, a soft, tender smile that was for Cole alone. "Then I'll be back when things calm down."

"Okay." Cole watched him go, eyes infinitely softer than they had been when he'd left the office. He followed his lover's movements from table to table, admiring the soft white-gold hair that caught the light so well, his bright green eyes that never lost their shine as he dealt with customer after customer. And mixed into the din, the tingling of the little gold jingle bells that Mint wore in each pointed ear.

The evening hours ticked by, until one by one the tables cleared and the restaurant emptied. Cole finished off his cocoa as Mint finished up, setting his empty cup aside as the exhausted but happy waiter finally sat down next to him.

Cole leaned close and kissed him almost lazily, nibbling at Mint's lips and tasting the peppermint cocoa that his lover so adored before deepening the kiss, taking more of the peppermint and all the pleasant warmth Mint so eagerly offered, as he felt the waiter twine arms around his neck.

Mint broke the kiss with a soft gasp, "Long day?" He touched gentle fingers to Cole's cheek. "Looks like someone wasn't pleased with a decision."

"Yeah…I'm not sure they get that their attitudes can affect their charges' behavior." Cole shrugged, "But it's over for today. And after a couple more things will come down a great deal."

Smiling fondly, Mint brushed a few loose strands of dark hair from Cole's face. "Would you like something to eat? You've had nothing but that cocoa."

"It's very good - as well you know."

Mint crinkled his nose, grinning. "I can't help that my mother taught me everything she knew. Would you at least like some gingerbread? If you won't eat anything sensible?"

"I'll eat whatever you want me to eat, Mint." Cole said tolerantly. "I always do, no matter how hard I try to resist."

Laughing, Mint stood to go to the kitchen. "I don't think I've ever seen you resist once I set it before you."

"What can I say? I haven't been able to refuse you from the moment we met."

Mint just winked, before vanishing to fix them dinner.

Cole was yawning when he appeared several minutes later, vegetable soup and warm chicken sandwiches on plates patterned with little gingerbread men and candy canes. "I think I'm going to fall asleep in my food." That or somewhere on the street on his walk home. To get home, he'd have to walk back up Candy Cane Way, and then turn down Sugar Plum Street until he finally reached his own street - Chestnut Avenue. He loathed hackneys and wasn't rich or ostentatious enough to possess his own carriage.

"You most certainly will not," Mint replied with mock severity, then smiled. "Soup makes for a poor pillow." Then he seemed to hesitate a moment, before resuming the soft smile reserved exclusively for Cole. "How long have you been coming here?"

"Hmmm? About a year now, I think?" Cole looked up from his soup, "Gets harder to leave every time."

"Then…don't."

Cole almost dropped his spoon. He all but gaped at Mint. "What?"

"Don't leave," Mint hadn't touched his own food, hands clasped in his lap. His cheeks were flushed with an unusual shyness. "Mom retired a few months ago, as you know…and I'm rather busy with trying to both run the restaurant and keep up with the paperwork. I…I was wondering if you'd like to help me? I know how much you hate working at the firm, and how busy it always keeps you." He rushed on before Cole could speak, "Not that you wouldn't be busy here, but I thought at least we'd be closer and then you wouldn't have to walk so far at night and--"

He was cut off by an eager, happy, vaguely vegetable kiss. "Of course I'd love to help!" Cole grinned, his face for once filled with unadulterated delight. "And I can stay here with you? Do you mean it? I always wanted…but I didn't want to presume…"

This time it was Cole who was silenced by Mint's mouth, as the fair-haired elf latched onto him and kissed Cole until they both forgot dinner and the restaurant and everything beyond it. "So that's a yes?" he managed at last.

Cole laughed delightedly. "Of course it's a yes! He nuzzled Mint's cheek, and nipped playfully at his nose. "I don't know what I'd do without you, Mint mine."

"Do you want to finish eating?" Mint asked breathlessly as Cole's kisses grew more fevered. "Or would you like to come see your new home?"

Cole's eyes twinkled. "I've seen your rooms before, Mint."

"Yes, but now they're your rooms."

"Ah, true. I guess I'd better inspect them. Is there room for my stuff with all your knickknacks?"

"We'll make room." Mint laughed and pulled reluctantly away, locking up the restaurant and flicking off the main lights. Finished closing the store, he took Cole's hand and led them up the back stairs to his apartment above the restaurant.

As the two made their way to bed, down in the street below the cheer and bustle of Gumdrop Lane continued, drawing more than a few envious glances from the late night patrons still working on Candy Cane Way.

END

CRIME

Navy NCIS - Ducky/Gibbs/Dinozo

Author: A. Magiluna Stormwriter
Title: Stuffed
Date: 7 December 2004
Fandom: CSI / Crime Shows
Pairing: Catherine/Sara
Rating: NC17
Summary Sara helps Catherine start off the holiday season right.
Disclaimer: "CSI: Crime Scene Investigators," the characters, and situations depicted are the property of Jerry Bruckheimer Television, Alliance Atlantis, and CBS Productions. This piece of fan fiction was created for entertainment not monetary purposes. Previously unrecognized characters and places, and this story, are copyrighted to the author. Any similarity to real persons, living or dead, is coincidental and not intended by the author. This site is in no way affiliated with "CSI: Crime Scene Investigators," CBS, or any representatives of Jorja Fox or Marg Helgenberger.
Date Written: 10/04/04 – 11/25/04
Feedback address: stormwriter@shatterstorm.net
Advertisement: Part of the SAC-2004 at: http://www.kardasi.com/Advent/2004/SAC-2004.htm
Note: This was written for the Slash Advent Calendar 2004. It’s also my first CSI fic. It wasn’t what I’d originally intended, but then again, isn’t that the true test of a good muse? *eg*
Beta: Shatterpath

“Stuffed”
by A. Magiluna Stormwriter

It had surprised me when Cath admitted to a childlike love of the holidays. She certainly made the feeling infectious. And in less than two hours, the festivities truly began in her eyes. St. Nick’s Day. Not Thanksgiving. That was just the precursor. The Advent Calendar counted things down, and St. Nick’s Day was the first highlight.

Of course, it didn’t help that Lindsey had been born in the wee hours of St. Nick’s morning either. I wasn’t surprised at all to find her middle name was Nicole.

“Sara?” I glanced up and pulled her down into my lap for a quick kiss. “Sara,” she chuckled, half-heartedly trying to pull away.

“Yes, Cath?” I murmured, nibbling at her earlobe.

“Sara,” she whined, tilting her head to the side. “What about Lindsey?”

“If she’s smart, she’ll stay where she is. Don’t want to be giving her something else for Show and Tell.”

Of course, I wouldn’t let her answer, moving to take her lips in a sweetly demanding kiss. There was still that little part of me that worried she’d wake up one day and realize she’d been wrong to get involved with me. So I did everything I could every day to make her happy. I wanted my good memories to be plentiful.

“Sara,” she moaned, pulling back from the kiss, albeit obviously reluctantly. “We have to get out all the presents, and fill Lindsey’s stocking.”

“Catherine, she’s eleven years old—“

“Twelve in a few hours,” she cut in weakly.

What a mom! I rolled my eyes. Chuckling, I pulled her close. “Okay, she’s nearly twelve, and she’s fast asleep. We can put out the presents in the morning before we get her up. It’s not like Griss gives us both the night off very often…”

For a moment, she looked as if she might protest. And then that look crossed her face. Oh I was in the best kind of trouble when she looked at me like that. I actually shivered under the intensity of that look.

“Are you trying to say that Saint Nick has a gift for me?” she asked coyly.

I did my best to appear nonchalant and shrug. “Well, I don’t know, Catherine. Do you think you’ve been a good enough girl to even get a gift from Saint Nick?”

“Sarah!” she admonished with a grin, playfully slapping my arm.

“Well? I’m waiting,” I replied, leaning back into the couch to cross my arms over my chest. I let a small smirk tug at the corner of my lips as I stared at her.

She stared back at me for a long moment, that curious “Can I solve this puzzle” look in her eyes. Such expressive eyes she has. It’s always been so easy to decipher her moods by her eyes. She’s said I’m the same way, but I’ve never believed her.

“Okay, I see how this is,” she finally said, bringing me out of my reverie. “You want me to prove I deserve this gift, right?”

Leave it to Catherine to see this as a competition of some kind. I merely sat there and waited, an eyebrow quirked in curiosity. I mentally ticked off the seconds until her own curiosity overloaded.

“Come on, Sara!” she whined, squirming in my lap. “What is it? Can I open it now? Please don’t make me wait til Christmas morning.”

Reaching out to grip her hips, I gave her a sultry look. “Go get Lindsey’s presents and the stocking stuffers. I’ll get your present ready and bring out what goes in your stocking.”

There was a brief stillness between us, eyes locked on each other’s. And suddenly, in a tangled kimbo of arms and legs, she was on the move: a graceful flurry of barely controlled chaos. I was mesmerized by the way she moved. I always had been, but more so now that we’d become a couple. Catherine was an enigmatic puzzle that I obsessively enjoyed working out, discovering every little nuance.

Quickly remembering my own gifts for both mother and daughter, I sprang into action. We passed each other in the hall once or twice, and despite what she was doing, Catherine couldn’t help but stare at me in bald-faced curiosity. Each time I caught her, I merely smiled innocently at her and continued on my merry way.

Catherine and I had been dancing around each other, flirting, teasing, fantasizing, for nearly four years before we got together. And despite being an ass, I had Hank to thank for getting us together. Cath had come to take me out for a girls’ night out to help me forget and get over him. We ended the night with me drunkenly admitting my feelings for her and passing out in her arms. I’d woken up the next day with a warm, sexy, playful woman curled around me. And I hadn’t looked back since.

“I’m almost done, Sar,” Catherine murmured huskily. “Do you need more time?”

Her question brought me out of my reverie again with a flush of embarrassment. “Give me five? I have to dig your present out of my hiding spot.”

Not waiting for her nod, I ran into the bedroom and quickly slipped into her gift, redressing over the top of it. I set out the box on the bed and sat there for a moment to collect my thoughts. And then I was opening the door and letting her in. I closed the door behind her with a decisive lick and leaned against it, a smirk tugging at my lips again as she instantly headed for the box.

Picking it up, she examined it from all sides, a delightedly inquisitive grin on her face. “It’s beautifully wrapped, Sara,” she said, finally looking at me. “I’m almost afraid to unwrap it.” But she no more than said it, and she was tearing at the wrapping paper. I held back a chuckle at her antics, waiting to see her reaction.

She opened the box and pushed aside the issue paper…and stopped. “Oh my,” she breathed and reached into the box to pull out a smaller box. Shaking it, she stared at me. “Um, Sara, it’s empty? I don’t understand…”

Dawning lit up her beautiful eyes, and I felt my smirk widen. “Yes, it is. Come and finish unwrapping your gift, Cath.”

She pounced on me with a devilish giggle and a passionate kiss.

END

CRIME

Sentinel/Smallville - Lex/Jim/Blair

Title: Into the Light II- Confrontations
Author: Angelee
Date: December 7
Fandom: The Sentinel/Smallville
Pairing: Lex/Jim/Blair
Rating: NC-17
Summary: Sentinel confrontations
Disclaimer: Heh! Right.
Feedback address: Angelee79912@yahoo.com 
Beta: By my sister-all remaining mistakes are mine-with apologies.
Advertisement: Part of the SAC-2004 at http: www.kardasi.com/Advent/2004/SAC-2004html  

Into the Light II-Confrontations

“Where’s Jim?” Lex asked, stretching sensually on the bed.

Blair pulled him into his arms. “Outside spying on Clark. I told you not to tell him where he lived.”

Lex chuckled. “It’s not my fault that Jim finds him so fascinating.” He replied burying his face against Blair’s really warm neck.

“It’s not even that. Jim says there’s something odd about Clark.” Blair replied, gently stroking Lex’s bald head. “And it’s driving him crazy not knowing what it is. Lex?”

“Hmm?”

“You really have a thing for purple, huh?”

“How can you tell?”

“Well, I think the purple satin sheets, purple comforter, purple pillow cases, purple rugs, purple towels-shall I go on?”

Lex smiled up at the curly-headed man. “Hmm, no I don’t think you have to. Yes, I really like purple.” He said shrugging his shoulders sheepishly. Just then the phone rang. “Let the machine get it. I’m on holiday.”

“Lex, this is your father. Pick up. Pick up, Alexander. I know you’re there. I do not like being ignored. Alright fine-I’ll be there in thirty minutes.”

Lex made a wild grab for the phone after hearing that, missed and landed on the floor in an inelegant, naked sprawl. “Damn.”

Blair looked over the edge of the bed. “Are you alright?”

“Hmm, fine. Prides hurt though. Well, that and my butt. I never realized how hard this floor was.”

“Not to worry I won’t tell Jim. Wanna come back up here where it’s warm?”

“Yes.” Lex replied, accepting Blair’s hand. He was quickly gathered into Blair’s warm arms once more.

“Lex is there something you want to tell me about your father? The bond is chiming violently in warning.”

“I ah…”

“You can’t keep secrets, Lex. The bond won’t allow it.”

Lex sighed heavily. “Damn. Alright. Shouldn’t Jim be here, so I don’t have to repeat it twice?”

“Yes. Call him.”

“He’s way on the other side of the castle.”

Blair cupped Lex’s face. “Jim is a Sentinel. Call him. He’ll hear you. Or use the bond. Reach out to him he’ll know.”

“Are you sure?” Lex asked skeptically.

Blair kissed him gently. “Reach out through the bond and see.”

Lex closed his eyes. He followed the invisible thread he’d come to recognized as Jim over the week they’d been together. Immediately he felt a response. It was like being gathered in big, burly arms and held close. Lex opened his eyes and smiled at Blair. “He’s coming.” He replied, his voice filled with wonder.

“See I told you.”

“Will I be able to do the same with you?”

“Yes. We will always know where the others are at all times.”

Suddenly the door burst open. “Do you know I just saw Clark lift a tractor.? Damn, that boy’s odd. Okay, what the wrong?” Jim asked, hurrying over to his Guides, carefully checking them out.

“Lex. Lex is worried.” Blair told Jim carefully.

“Why?” Jim asked gathering his newest Guide into his arms. Lex allowed it, knowing he wouldn’t be able to fight his Sentinel even if he wanted.

“His father is coming. He’ll be here in half and hour.”

Jim cupped Lex’s face in gentle hands. His new Guide looked so young, so vulnerable, so lost. “Open your thoughts to me, Lex.” He told him quietly. Jim didn’t want to waste time with words. Immediately Jim was flooded with images of a cold man unwilling or unable to offer his only son what he wanted and needed the most. Jim growled menacingly. Immediately backing off when Lex flinched. “It’s alright Lex. We will give you all the love you could possible want or need. While we’re doing this I want you to give me the images of everyone who has ever caused you pain.” Lex resisted for a moment. “Lex what did I tell you about fighting me?” The Sentinel gave a smile that could chill the dead. “I’m not going to hurt anyone. Maim a little, but not hurt. You are ours to protect and cherish. Release the images now, Lex. Don’t make me go digging for them. That might hurt and I really, really don’t want to do that.”

“B…but, Jim?”

“No buts. Release the images.” The Sentinel’s voice brooked no argument and Lex did as he was told. When it was done Jim turned toward Blair. “Did you catch that.”

“Yes.” Blair replied, wrapping himself around Lex who was shaking violently. “Easy, Lex. Everything is going to be okay.”

“B…but, Blair.”

The curly haired man shook his head. “No. No buts. We need to deal with anyone who could possible threaten the bond. Anyone. That includes your father, Clark, this Lana person, Chloe and Jonathan Kent.”

“B…But they don’t threaten the bond. Do they?”

Blair nodded. “They do. Jim while we’re added it we need to check and see and see why Lex thinks he’s not in the light and repair the damages caused by his father.”

“Yeah, might as well. Lex?”

“N…no. No.” Lex replied, hastily trying to get off the bed.

“Stop.” Jim commanded loudly.

Lex had no choice. He stopped. Held in place by the strong arms around him and the unmistakable pull of the bond. He fell back on the bed with a whimper.

“Lex, look at me.”

Lex shook his head. “N…no.”

“Why?” Jim asked softly. Wrapping himself protectively around his trembling Guide.

“B…Because once you know what I’ve done you won’t want me for your Guide or to be anywhere near you.”

“That can’t happen, Lex.” Blair told him.

“It can. It can.” Lex insisted. “It’s been great this week. I’ve loved every minute of it. I’ve never felt so safe. So loved.” He sighed sadly. “It was good while it lasted I suppose. Alright, take what you want, I won’t fight you. See for yourselves what a terrible person I am.”

Into the bond Lex released the darkness, the fear and loneliness. His heart and soul crying at the rejection he knew was coming. The rejection that was about to blow his new world to pieces.

Done the room was filled with silence as he waited and waited and waited. Finally unable to take anymore he looked up, blue eyes filled with tears. To find Jim and Blair regarding him quietly. Blair was the first to break the silence.

“Well Lex, that was interesting. Sit up and give me your hand.”

“Why?”

“You’re about to find out why you no longer need to fear the darkness. Give me your hand.” Blair repeated again.

Lex did as he was asked. His other hand taken by Jim. With Blair and the Sentinel linking their free hands. Suddenly the bond flared to a level Lex had not experienced the week they’d been together. In it he found love, acceptance and healing. In spades. Overwhelming him by it’s depth, by the time Blair and Jim were done Lex was sobbing helplessly in his Sentinel’s arms.

“You don’t hate me?”

Jim carefully wiped the tears away. “No, Lex.”

“You should hate me.”

“No, Lex. I don’t hate you.”

Lex met his Sentinel’s eyes hesitantly. “W…Why not? By now everyone else has run out the door screaming bloody murder at what a rotten person I am.”

“I’m not every one and neither is Blair. And you are many things my skinny little Guide. You are warm, generous, loving, protective of your friends. You can be ruthless, cunning and devious. You can lie with the best of them and deceive to gain your goals.” Jim smiled at him taking the bite out of his statement. “In other words, you are human, Lex. As human as Blair as human as me. Not your odd friend Clark though because I have no idea what he is. Good and bad all mixed in. Do you understand what I’m telling you, Lex.”

“Yes. I think so.”

“Good.” Jim told him kissing his forehead. “I want you to listen to me and take what I tell you to heart. Do not-I repeat, do not try to pull any of those stunts again. We will know it through the bond and there is no place where you can run where I won’t find you. And when I catch you, I’ll tan your hide so good you won’t be able to move for a week. Do we understand one another?”

Lex smiled shakily up at his Sentinel. “Yes. Tanned hide?”

“Yes. With you not being able to move for a week.” Jim replied, wiping the tears still coursing down Lex’s face with his thumbs. “You need to get yourself ready your father will be here in about ten minutes.” The Sentinel picked up the increase in his new Guide’s heartbeat. “Steady. Everything’s alright. Let’s see what he wants and then you can take us on another tour of Smallville and maybe we could stop at your coffeehouse again before we go to Metropolis to celebrate New Years Eve.”

Lex nodded turning to his fellow Guide. “Blair? Do you hate me?” He said in a small voice.

Blair shook his head. “No, Lex. I could never hate you. There are things we all do that are wrong, but we learn from our mistakes and move on. It’s time for you to move on.”

“With you and Jim?”

“Yes.” Blair replied. “You are a part of us now. Nothing and no one can separate us.”

Lex smiled. Really?”

“Yup. I think you might want to wash up a little. You wouldn’t want your father to see you all red-eyed. Hey?” Lex turned back to look at him as he made his way to the bathroom. “Maybe once we’ve dealt with your father we’ll have time to play on your big, comfy, purple bed before we go to Smallville.”

“I don’t know, we haven’t really got up from the bed all week. You sure you want to spend more time on it?” Blair wiggled his eyebrows at him. “Oh, okay. Yeah, I’m game. Is it my turn to be on top?”

“Hum, yeah I think it is.”

“Cool.” Lex replied, bouncing off toward the bathroom.

Both Jim and Blair watched him go smiling. “I think your bounce has rubbed off on him, Blair.” The Sentinel chuckling. “As well as your speech patterns.”

“Hmm. You complaining?”

“Never.” Jim told him, giving him a gentle kiss.

“What are we going to do about Lionel?”

“Lionel is going to cause a problem. I think I may need to call in the big guns.” Jim said, reaching for his cell phone.

“Where are they?”

“About ten miles outside of Smallville.”

Blair nodded happily. “Cool.”

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

“Well, Father to what do I owe the pleasure of this visit?” Lex asked. His ever cool, collected self, now. If still a little red-eyed.

“You didn’t answer you phone.” Lionel replied as he walked arrogantly into Lex’s study. Followed by four of the biggest bodyguards Lex had ever seen.

“Perhaps that was because I did not wish to be disturbed. Did you ever think of that?”

Lionel eyes flashed coming toward him angrily. “I will not tolerate that kind of attitude from my son.”

Jim easily inserted himself protectively in front of Lex. “I don’t think so.”

“And who the hell are you?”

“I am Lex’s Sentinel.” Jim growled menacing.

Lionel’s eyebrows rose in surprise. “Sentinel?”

“Yes.” Jim growled again.

“Lex when did you acquire a Sentinel?”

Lex peeked out from in back of Jim. “I didn’t acquire him he acquired me.”

“Luthor’s do not get acquired, Lex. Didn’t I teach you anything?”

Lex came out from in back of his protective Sentinel. “You taught me a great many things, Father. Not much else of what I wanted to learn though.”

Lionel blue eyes flashed angrily once more. “You are an ungrateful child, Lex.”

“Yes, Father. So you keep telling me. What do you want? Perhaps to spend the holidays with your only child?” Lex asked sarcastically.

Lionel raised a hand dismissively. “No, Lex. You are no longer a child who need to spend time with your Mommy and Daddy.” Jim growled at Lionel when he felt the flash of pain in the bond the comment caused. “I suggest you call off your guard puppy, Lex before I have someone put him to sleep.”

Blair suddenly moved forward from where he’d been quietly watching. “I’d like to see you try.”

“And who the hell are you?”

“I’m Blair Sandburg, the other Guide.”

Lionel tisked. “Lex, Lex, Lex. You are quite the deviant, aren’t you. How many in your harem, Lex? Two, three, four?”

“I think you’ve said enough, Luthor. It’s time for you to go.” Jim said angrily.

“This is my castle. No one throws me out of my castle.”

“I can and I will.” The Sentinel declared calmly.

“By what right?” Lionel replied, with bored arrogance.

“By right of the Sentinel. By the simple fact Lex is my Guide. By the fact that everything that is his, is mine and mine his. Lex belongs to me-mind, body and soul that also includes all his belongings, including this castle.”

“How dare you.” Lionel sputtered.

Lex turned surprised blue eyes toward his Sentinel. “Really? How come you didn’t mention this before?”

Jim looked over at Lex. “Yes, Lex. It is a Sentinel law as old as time. And it never came up.”

“Don’t I get a say?”

Jim ran a finger over Lex’s cheek. “No. You lost that the moment I chose you for my Guide and you accepted. I would never take your things from you, but I don’t have time to discuss it with you. We need to deal with your father. Later?”

Lex nodded. There was something about the look in Jim’s eyes that inspired trust. He would trust his Sentinel in this. What help greatly was the bond, it told him that his Sentinel would never hurt him in any way. He would trust it in this, their first battle.

“Lex, we can fight this. I’ll find a way of getting you free of another mess you’ve gotten yourself into. No matter the cost.”

“I don’t want to be free.” Lex told him softly. “I love my Sentinel, very much and am quite happy with the way things are.”

“Oh, Lex.” Jim replied softly. “Thank-you.” He added, trying to clear his throat. Deeply touched by the trust Lex was showing him.

Lex smiled shyly up at his Sentinel. “I know it’s not quite the time to bring that up but I just realized it.”

Jim nodded. “We’ll talk about that as well. Let’s take care of your father, shall we?”

Both the Sentinel and Guide turned toward Lionel who was visibly fuming. “I will not allow it.”

“There’s nothing you can do. The bond is in place and rock solid. There is nothing you or anyone can do to change that.” Blair replied, moving closer to Lex. Not touching but close enough for a show of solidarity.

“I will find a way?”

“It is a free country. Do as you see fit. As will we.” Jim told him firmly.

“What does that mean?”

“Blair, would you let Simon in, please?”

“My pleasure.” The curly-haired man replied as he went to the door walking gingerly around the four bodyguards.

A talk dark man with gold-rimmed walked in followed by a dozen men in dark uniforms. “Hello, Simon. I’m glad to see you.” The Sentinel told him.

Simon nodded. “Jim. Is this the troublemaker?” He asked motioning to Lionel.

Jim nodded. “One and the same. Will you explain a few hard truths to him please? He doesn’t seem to want to see reason.”

“Mr. Luthor, I am Simon Banks. I head the Headquarters for Sentinels worldwide.” Simon said, moving forward offering his hand. Lionel looked at it, but didn’t take it. “Okay.” Simon replied, letting his hand drop. “I hear you have a problem with you son being Guide to Jim here.”

“I will fight with all my money and power to separate them.”

Simon pulled out a cigar. “I’m sorry to hear that.” He replied, lighting it carefully.

“And what pray tell, is that suppose to mean?”

Simon pulled out a paper from his jacket. “Here you go.” He said handing it to the senior Luthor.

Lionel opened it. “A restraining order?”

“Yes. You are forbidden to come within a twenty mile radius of your son, Lex. You can not call, fax, e-mail, smoke signal or generally harass or annoy him for any reason.”

“You can’t do that, I’m his father.” Lionel yelled angrily.

“You lost that right when you denied the rights of his Sentinel.”

“What?”

“You could have kept your rights as Lex’s father until you said you were going to fight the Sentinel and Guide being together. You cannot do that by any legal law on the planet. For the simple fact, Jim is worth thirty of you. Even with all your money and power.”

“I’m worth 40 billion.” Lionel said arrogantly. “Are you saying he’s worth more than that?”

“That’s exactly what I’m saying. You can call your lawyer, if you like”

Lionel snapped his fingers at one of his bodyguards who quickly took out a cell phone. In the meantime Simon moved over to where Jim stood. “So when are you coming back to Cascade?”

“I don’t know, Simon. It all depends on my new Guide. Oh, I haven’t introduced you to Lex. Lex, this is Simon Banks, my boss.”

Lex offered his hand, which was warmly shaken. “Nice to meet you, sir.”

“Nice to meet you too, son.” Simon told him with a big smile. “Intresting father you got there.”

“Yes, I know.” Lex sighed softly as he looked over at his father who was arguing angrily on the phone. “Can he break my bond with Jim?”

“No.”

“Are you sure? He’s very powerful.” Lex asked skeptically.

Simon’s dark eyes looked at Lex appraisingly. “Why? Do you want to break it?”

“No. I was justing wondering.”

“I’m pretty sure that Jim and Blair have already told you that the bond is unbreakable once it’s in place. Don’t you believe them?”

“It’s not that I don’t believe them, it’s just that everything good in my life had either died or been taken from me.” Lex said so softly Simon strained to hear him.

Jim pulled Lex in to his arms. “This can’t, Lex. You father has to realize that as well as you.”

“I feel so good when I’m with you and Blair. I feel whole, not so lost and alone.” Lex said rubbing his face against Jim’s warm flannel-covered chest. A sudden crash made him flinch.

“Steady, Lex. That’s just your father throwing his cell phone against the wall.” Jim told him chuckling.

“This isn’t over.” Lionel hissed as he marched out of the door followed by his bodyguards.

“Okay, another crisis averted. Do you want me to leave the Sentinel Guards?” Simon asked, taking a heavy puff of his cigar.

“That would probably be a good idea until we know what Lex’s father plans to do next.” Jim replied.

“Alright. I’m heading back to Cascade. I’ve got a pile of paperwork to do. As well as assignments to dole out. I need to know when you’ll be back. As well as when Lex can go into training.” Simon told the Sentinel.

Jim rubbed Lex’s back comfortingly. “Hmm, like I said earlier, I’m not sure. My Guides come first. And Lex here needs time to ajust.”

Blair who had been watching the drama spoke for the first time in about ten minutes. “Simon, can I ask you a question?”

Simon rolled his eyes. “Damn, a question. It’s going to cost me something for sure I just know it.” He sighed heavily. “Alright ask.”

“Does Lex really need to go in for training? I can do that here. I’ve already been certified to teach all about Sentinels. Have the twenty certificates on the wall back in Cascade to prove it.”

“Yeah, yeah. We all know that every Guide on the planet comes to you for training, but if this is a ploy to get a raise, you can forget it. I’m barely making ends meet as it is and with the budget cuts…”

Blair shook his curly hair. “No, that’s not what I mean. I’ve been certified-can’t I train Lex here? In the castle? In Smallville? Lex really likes it here and frankly, so do I.”

“What about Jim?”

Blair smiled at the listening Sentinel. “I think Jim likes Smallville too-it’s got its charm. Can’t Jim use the castle and Smallville as his base of operations? At least for alittle while? Until Lex is more at ease with the bond? Then we can discuss what to do next.”

Simon thought about it. “I don’t see why not. Alright. You have two more weeks of bonding time left. Then I’ll give you a call about your next assignment, Jim.”

“Alright. Thank-you, Simon.”

Simon waved his hand in the air as he made his way to the door. “No problem. See you guys later.”

“Say ‘Hi’ to Daryl for us.” Blair said as the door closed.

“Will do.” Simon echoed through.

Jim pulled Lex away from his slightly. “See, no violence, not to much screaming and yelling, at least on our part.”

Lex smiled up at his Sentinel. “You handled that very well.”

Jim rubbed Lex’s eyebrows with gentle thumbs. “Yeah, huh?”

Lex moved into the carress with a small murmur of contentment. “How did you know my father was going to cause trouble and where did all those men come from?”

“When a Sentinel bond a Guide for the first time, it’s critical that there not be to many outside influences. When it became known I’d found another Guide, Simon and the Sentinel Guard came down to make sure we weren’t disturbed as the bond solidified and settled. As for your father-well what Simon had was a standard form. His reaction is quite common.”

“Hey, lets forget about that. Don’t we have something to do?” Blair chimed, running a comforting hand over Lex’s back.

“Yes, weren’t we going on a tour of Smallville before heading to Metropolis for New Years Eve?” Lex asked, losing himself in the unconditional love and support being given.

“Yes, but I remember something about a romp in your big, purple bed.” Jim replied, immediately getting a sense of excitement from his two Guides.

“Race you.” Blair challenged Lex.

“Luthors don’t race.” Lex told him snootily.

“First one to the bedroom gets Jim first.” Blair replied, wiggling his eyebrows at Lex.

Like a shot both Guides took off, echoes of laughter bouncing off the castle walls as they fought each other to get to the bedroom first. Jim followed them at a more leisurely pace. “Dumb Guides have no idea,” He said to himself, chuckling softly. “who they’re dealing with.” He added unbuttoning his flannel shirt as he went.

He entered the bedroom to find both Lex and Blair on the bed waiting impatiently for him. Jim pulled his shirt free of his pants watching with a smile the way their eyes widened appreciatively.when he dropped it to the floor.

“Hello, Guides.” He said, slowly walking toward the bed.

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

“Lex, I’m telling you that the world is a kalidscope of colors. The world does not live by purple alone.” Blair was telling his fellow Guide as they got out of Lex’s grape-colored Hummer.

Lex winced slightly as he got out. “I know that, but I like purple.”

Jim smiled when he noticed the wince. “Are you sore, Lex?”

Lex turned to glare slightly at his Sentinel. “You damn well know I am. And it was my turn to be on top.”

“You were on top.” Jim replied, smiling unrepentantly.

Lex opened the doors to the Talon. “I was suppose to be the topper not the toppee.”

“Technicalities, Lex. You had fun didn’t you?” Jim asked as he lead Blair into the coffee house with a gentle hand on his back.

Lex got a smile on his face that could almost be described as dreamy. “Oh, yeah.” Remembering how he’d rode Jim for what felt like hours. With the Sentinel deep, so deep inside of him it almost felt like they were one person. “But it was my turn to take you.” He complained half-heartedly.

“You did and I thoroughly enjoyed it. And you Blair-how do you feel?”

“Hmm, my butt quit throbbing about twenty minutes ago.” He looked up at his Sentinel suspiciously. “Are you taking Viagra or something?”

Jim looked at him smugly. “Nope. That was all me and my appreciation for my two beautiful Guides. Hmm, I smell donuts-especially buttermilk donuts. Hey-Lex, they got muffins. What kind do you want?”

“Don’t want a muffin.”

“Eat a donut then.”

Lex looked up at his Sentinel. “No really. I’m not hungry. I don’t want anything but maybe some coffee.” Signing inwardly-knowing he’d already lost the battle. Jim was forever trying to get him to eat.

“Okay, one banana nut muffin and coffee coming up. Blair what would you like? I smell different likes of teas.”

Blair smiled at aggrieved look on Lex’s face. “Hmm, banana nut muffin like Lex and a cup of herbal tea-doesn’t matter which.”

“Okay. Find us someplace to sit. I’ll be right back.”

“How’s this?” Blair asked Lex choosing a table near the door.

“That’s fine. Why is Jim always trying to get me to eat?” Lex asked, sitting down carefully. Oh man, was he ever sore.

“Because he says you’re to skinny. And it’s a blessed protector thing. Just eat the muffin and make your Sentinel happy.” Blair replied, sitting down just as gingerly.

“Oh, alright, geez.” Lex replied rolling his eyes, but pleased that his Sentinel was thinking about him. “So what did you want to do tonight?”

“Whatever you like. I kinda like the idea of dinner and dancing. But I’ll be just as happy spending the time with just you and Jim in your penthouse.”

“I can always have food catered in and we can dance there if you want. It’ll be quiet, intimate.”

Blair nodded. “That’s cool. We can ask Jim if that’s okay with him when he comes back.”

“Hi, Lex.”

Lex startled slightly, lost in conversation with Blair. He looked up. “Hi, Clark. How are you?”

“Fine, thank-you. I haven’t seen you around for awhile.”

“Yes, well I’ve been busy. How are your holidays so far?”

“Nice. Was Santa good to you, Lex?”

Lex smiled looking over at Blair and then up at his Sentinel as Jim brought the drinks and food. “Better than I ever though possible.”

“Have a seat, Clark.” Jim said as he laid the muffin in front of Lex motioning for his Guide to eat.

“Hmm, okay.” Clark replied, sitting in the free chair. “What are your plans for New Years Eve?”

“Well, I think Lex and Blair want to go to Lex’s penthouse in Metropolis.” Jim replied straddling a chair.

“That’s cool.” Clark said, green eyes widening in surprise. He’d never been invited to the penthouse.

“Hey, Lex how are your holiday’s going?”

They all turned to watch as Chloe and Lana walked up to him. “Very nicely, thank you, Chloe. Yours? Hello Lana.”

“Good. Who are your friends?” Chloe asked, eyeing Jim and Blair.

“Ever the reporter, Chloe? I’d like you to meet Jim Ellison and Blair Sandburg. Jim is a Sentinel and Blair is his Guide.” Lex told them with a small smile.

“Lex.” Jim growled at him softly. Earning a startled look from the teenagers.

“Okay, okay.” Lex said hurriedly. “No secrets. Jim is also my Sentinel.”

“Lex, you’re bonded to a Sentinel?” Chloe said in surprise.

“Hmm, yes.” Lex replied, taking a careful sip of his very hot coffee.

“That’s so cool.” Chloe replied. “Can I have an interview for the newspaper? I bet your dad’s having a fit.”

“No and yes he is.”

“Come on, Lex. As far as I know there are very few Sentinels bonded to two Guides? One little interview, please.”

“No. Go find some mutants for your Wall of Weird and leave me alone, please.” Lex said testily.

Not offended in the least Chloe looked at Jim and Blair. “How about it Mr Ellison, Mr Sandburg?”

Jim shook his head, while Blair nodded. “I’ll do it, but not till after the holidays.”

“Cool. See, Lex-not everyone’s a partypooper like you.” Chloe said, sticking out her tongue at Lex.

“Oh, very grown up, Chloe.” Lex replied, smiling.

“I’m not a grown-up yet I’m only sixteen.”

“Oh-that explains it. Go play with your dolls then.”

“Okay. I’ll give you a call next week Mr Sandburg?” Blair nodded. “Cool. Coming Lana?”

“In a minute. I need to talk to Lex.”

“Alright. Bye everyone.”

Lex looked up at the petite brunette expectantly. “What did you need, Lana?” He sighed inwardly. The only time Lana came near him was when she needed something that nobody else could or would do.

Not now, Lex. Lana is it?” Jim asked the girl standing by their table.

“Yes. But I was wanted to talk to Lex, not you.” Lana said with her usual arrogance.

“When you talk to my Guide you talk to me and I said not right now. Go away little girl before you make me angry.”

Lana gave a tight smile. “What, you talk for Lex now?”

Jim narrowed his blue eyes giving Lana a look that had scared Lex out of three years growth when it’d been aimed at him. “ Yes. And you will not take that tone with me or my Guide ever again. If you do you’ll not like the consequences And I don’t give a f…fig if you’re only sixteen. Do we understand each other?”

Lana paled. “Y…yes.”

“Good. Go away now. Do not try and contact Lex in any way shape or form until I say so.”

Without a word Lana turned and left.

“Don’t you think you were being a little harsh with Lana?” Clark asked, almost angrily.

Jim turned toward him. “Don’t involve yourself in this, Clark. Because I haven’t dealt with you or your father yet.”

“Jim…”

“Don’t, Lex. I want you and Blair to wait for me in the Hummer.”

“No, Jim. Please.”

Jim reached out and ran a gentle finger over Lex’s pale face. “Don’t worry. I’m not going to hurt him. I just want to have a few words with him and it’s better if you weren’t here to hear them. Go. Listen through the bond, if you have to.”

The Sentinel watched his two Guide leave the Talon before turning back toward Clark. “Alright Clark-now that Lex has a Sentinel it opens a whole new playing field.”

“What does that mean.” Clark asked softly, trying to make himself as unthreatening as possible.

Jim smiled at him. “Don’t try that, Clark. It won’t work. I saw you lifting a tractor this morning.”

Clark paled. “That’s impossible. I didn’t lift a tractor this morning.”

“Yes, you did. I’m a Sentinel. If you don’t know what that is I suggest you look it up.”

Clark sighed unhappily. “What do you want?”

“It’s simple, Clark. For some odd reason Lex likes you. I could stop that friendship, but I won’t. I’m telling you now that you are not to involve Lex in anything life threatening ever again. If you do and my Guide gets hurt you will answer to me. What you thought Lex would do to you is nothing compared to what I’ll do to you. And I know your secret. The secret you’ve been trying to hide from Lex for the past two years. He knows by the way.”

“H…he knows.” Clark paled even further.

“Yes, he knows and doesn’t care. He’s got other things to keep himself occupied with now.”

“You and Blair?”

“Yes.”

“Where do I fit in on this new playing field?”

“I told you. I won’t keep Lex from seeing you, if he wants. You are his friend and despite everything you’ve done to him you’ve looked out for him and kept him from getting hurt to badly. For that I am grateful.”

“You can’t keep me from seeing Lex.” Clark said softly, green eyes wide and beseeching. Lex was his friend and he would miss him a great deal if he couldn’t see him again.

“I could. I will do whatever it takes to protect my Guide and keep him safe. All of him Mind, body and soul. Which brings me to your father.”

Clark’s green eyes flashed. “Are you threatening my father.”

Jim smiled. “Settle down, farm boy. It’s just a friendly warning. If your father insults Lex because of his last name again I will deal with him accordingly. That’s it. See it didn’t hurt abit.”

“I’m surprised you didn’t include my mother in all this.” Clark said bitterly.

“Why should I? Lex likes her. A lot.”

Silence for along moment before Clark spoke again. “I’m glad Lex found you.” He said smiling tentatively at Jim.

“Yeah, so am I.”

“He’s needed something for along time. Something I couldn’t give him.”

“He has it now.” Jim replied, tilting his face to the side as if listening to something. “Lex says to come to the castle day after tomorrow. He’d like to spend some time with you before you have to go back to school.”

Clark smiled again. “Really?” This time happily.

Jim returned it. “Yeah. You are his friend and he loves you. It’s to bad your Dad didn’t let you keep the truck Lex gave you for saving his life. It’s beautiful.”

“Yeah it is.” Clark replied wistfully. The Sentinel tilted his head again after a moment he chuckled softly. “What?” Clark asked curiously.

“Lex just told me he’d buy me a truck if I wanted one.”

“Are you going to take him up on it?”

“Hell, yeah. If my Guide wants to he can spoil me all he wants. I’m not going to complain.”

“I wish my parents would let Lex spoil me.”

“You‘re what- almost eighteen?” Clark nodded. “Lex can take you shopping on your eighteenth birthday. I’ve got to get going. Blair just reminded me about our New Years Eve plans. See you around kid. Oops, Lex wanted his muffin. Skinny little Guide needs to eat a lot more.” The Sentinel said, coming back for it and for Lex’s coffee. Sticking his forgotten buttermilk donut in his mouth before grabbing Blair’s muffin as well. He left the Talon.

Clark watched Jim leave with a small wistful smile on his face.

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

Twelve o’clock midnight found both Guides wrapped around their Sentinel swaying gently to the music coming out of Lex’s expensive stereo system. It had been great night. Lex had gone all out in getting a celebration feast together for them. Jim had drawn the line at the caviar. He couldn’t bring himself to eat fish eggs and promply turned his Sentinel nose up at it. He had thoroughly enjoyed the rest of the exotic meal though.

Stuffed on rich food and expensive wine they now swayed together slowly enjoying the closeness and comfort they readily fed to one another through the bond.

Jim pulled Lex away slightly. “Are you having fun, Lex?” He asked softly, gently stroking Lex’s almost nonexistent eyebrows with his thumbs.

Lex smiled up at him. “Oh, yes.” He looked away for a moment before meeting his Sentinel’s eyes almost shyly. “Do you remember when you said back at the Talon about me spoiling you?”

“Yes, Lex.”

“I want to start now. I’ve got a present for you and Blair.”

“Really?”

“Hmm, can I go get them?”

“Yes.”

“Hmm, well you’re going to have to let me go.” Lex said smiling.

“Oh.” Jim replied, reluctantly letting his Guide go.

Lex went to his desk and drew out two velvet covered boxes. Slowly he made his way back to the two waiting men. He carefully offered them, waiting silently.

Jim opened his first. “Lex, it’s beautiful. When did you have the time to get this? How did you keep this silent through the bond?”

Lex went to stand close to his Sentinel. “Two days after we bonded. I don’t know how I was able to keep it from you. Probably because the bond had not solidified yet. The rest of the time I was so busy with you and Blair I didn’t think about them. What do you think? Do you like it?”

Jim pulled the simple gold band out. It shone brightly in the candlelight, the only source of light in the room. “It’s beautiful, Lex. But why?”

Lex shrugged. “I wanted you to have solid prove of my devotion and love for you and Blair.”

“It’s beautiful, Lex.” Jim repeated, putting the ring on.

Lex turned to his fellow Guide. “Blair?”

Blair had already put the ring on and was admiring it. “I second what Jim said. It’s beautiful. Where’s yours, Lex?”

Lex reached into his pocket and pulled an exact duplicate of the other two rings. “Here.”

“Let me put it on.” Jim told him reaching for it.

His Sentinel carefully sliding it onto the ring finger of Lex’s left hand. Pulling him close he murmured softly. “Mine.”

Lex sighed contently. “Yours.” Feeling Blair move closer as well. “Both of yours.”

“Happy New Year, Lex.” Blair told him rubbing his back warmly.

“Yes, I really think this year it will be.” Lex replied

END

SCIENCE FICTION

Andromeda - Harper/Rhade

Author: Moonloon
Title: Fire
Rating: R
Pairing: Harper/Rhade
Summary: You rub two sticks together, you make fire.
Show: Andromeda
Date of publication: 7th December 2004
Disclaimer: Andromeda is not mine. The characters in this story are not mine.
Feedback address: maryavatar@gmail.com
Website: Amused and Abused http://rivatar.com/aa
Advertisement: Part of the Slash Advent Calendar of 2004 at http://www.kardasi.com/Advent/2004/SAC-2004.htm
Beta: Much thanks to Zion's Starfish who fixes all my technical snafus, and rivier, who tells me where the sucky bits are.

FIRE

Y'know that whole love/hate cliché thing? Where the hero and the heroine hate each other then fall into each other's arms? Hate it. Hate it so much. Which is why I was kind of surprised to find myself acting it out, with Rhade of all people.

Rhade had some stupid Winter Solstice Festival thing he wanted to celebrate. Fine, live and let live. Only... his celebration involved setting fire to stuff. And unless you hadn't noticed, setting fire to stuff is not a good idea on a warship. The Andromeda has three different fire-suppression systems, all independent from each other, and all very difficult to disable. Not to mention that if you disable them, the fail-safe kicks in and vents all the oxygen in the entire section.

So, to recap, fire + warship = very bad idea.

Rhade wasn't interested in hearing that. He was all "blah blah blah, scented candles, yadda yadda, traditional log of Terazed pine, wah wah wah, goddamn sprinklers."

I thought Ubers didn't go in for the whole religion thing. I know Tyr didn't do any of this crap, but Rhade just starts off on, "Tradition and religion aren't the same thing. Now fix my quarters so I can burn expensive imported lumber and stinky candles made from insect secretions, you annoying little kludge."

Okay, so he might not have said the 'annoying little kludge' bit, I could damned well hear him thinking it. I'm pretty sure Andromeda was on my side, because she got as far as, "Anyone attempting to disable vital safety procedu..." before Rhade invoked privacy protocols. I scowled, and muttered about Ubers who were too stupid to realise that you *can't* just burn things in a space ship. And that's when the shit hit the fan.

Or at least, the first wave of shit. This would be the 'large Uber picks the scrawny kludge up by the neck, slams him against the wall, and threatens him' portion of the evening. Not something I enjoy, but let's face it, it's happened often enough that it doesn't really intimidate me any more. And I don't think Rhade was trying to hurt me. At least... not *much*.

Thing is... I have this little reflex when I'm being choked: I wrap my legs around the guy's chest. Look, *it makes sense*. I'm being held off the ground by my neck, and I might not be particularly studly, but that's still a lot of weight hanging on a couple of very small bones and some muscle. Not to mention the stress on my dataport, which is a *very* bad thing. Wrapping my legs around the guy gets the weight off my neck, and gives me some leverage.

I'm sure Dylan thinks I have some kinky sex thing about being strangled, but Dylan is the King of Whacked Out Ideas, so I just ignore any lingering looks at my neck.

As I was saying... Rhade grabbed me and yanked me off my feet, probably preparing to yell at me, and the leg reflex kicked in. There was a very quiet moment, as Rhade stood there looking confused. Then he snickered and said, "Do you always spread your legs when you get picked up by Nietzscheans?" and rubbed his thumb very gently across the skin under my dataport.

I have a smart mouth, always have. It's got me into more trouble than just about anything else. This time though, it completely failed me. I just sort of hung there with my mouth open, really surprised that Rhade: A. had sort of giggled, B. had a sense of humour, C. was sort of flirting with me, in a weird and slightly scary Nietzschean way and D. had really pretty eyes this close up. And that's when the second wave hit the fan.

One thing you have to say for Nietzscheans, they know how to turn a person on. When you get right down to it, their whole culture boils down to 'gotta get me some'. I don't know if they're genetically engineered to be great kissers, or if they go to small arms manufacture, military tactics and making out camp when they hit puberty, but they definitely know what to do with their mouths.

*My* mouth had been hanging open in surprise, so Rhade just leaned forward and suddenly I was getting to taste his tongue. If I hadn't been in shock I'd probably have bitten down, but I hesitated too long, and by the time my self-preservation instinct kicked in, my libido had taken over. Which didn't take long.

Warm, wet, with just the right combination of soft and firm. And I'm really easy when I haven't been laid for three years. There was a tiny little voice at the back of my head, jumping up and down and waving red flags, yelling 'What the Hell are you *doing*?' but the rest of my body moaning 'Humping is good' drowned it out. You'd think now that I'm creeping up on thirty, the damn thing wouldn't have such a hold on me, but you'd be wrong. I'm as much a slave to my gonads as I ever was.

I slid down the wall a bit when Rhade let go of my neck, but I didn't go far, because Rhade's hands were back, this time cupping my ass. He pressed me harder into the wall, which wasn't that great, but then he ran his fingers down the seam in the seat of my pants, which turned my crank like you wouldn't believe. Sliding down a bit meant I could tell that Rhade's crank was pretty well turned too, so I wriggled, just to see what sort of reaction I'd get.

The reaction was kind of an "Uurgh!" noise, a lot more humping, and Rhade's tongue running around the space between my teeth and my upper lip. New erogenous zone... whoo! As a little thank you for that, I shimmied lower and started to get serious.

And when I say 'started', what I really mean is 'finished', because a couple of good squirms and that was it, game over, high tide at the pleasure beach. I was *done*. And I guess Rhade was too, although I missed out on seeing it, since my eyes had rolled back so far I could see my pituitary gland.

Next thing I knew, I was lying on the floor, staring up at Rhade who was leaning against the wall gasping like someone had cut the oxygen.

"Sorry, I didn't mean to drop you, but..." Rhade sort of waved a hand to indicate post-boink stupidity.

"S'okay. I let go. I think," I said, and got up, just in time for the embarrassment to kick in. "Uh… I'm just gonna go do… something. Somewhere else."

Rhade looked relieved, which I could deal with *so* much better than 'smug'. "Yes, I should probably be checking the ammunition inventory. We'll talk about the fire suppression systems later." And then he bolted off out the door.

I couldn't believe the stupid bastard still thought I could jigger the safety protocols for him! I banged my head on the wall a couple of times and went to get cleaned up.

Then I left a message for him, letting him know that the machine shops don't have the same systems, since people need to weld and stuff in there, and if he wanted to burn his stuff in my workshop, that'd be okay. And I really wasn't thinking about the fact that I have a bunk stashed in there. Honest.

The End

SCIENCE FICTION

Andromeda - Beka/Rommie

Author - Moonloon
Title - Beka Baby
Rating - NC17
Pairing - Rommie/Beka
Summary - Can androids sing?
Show - Andromeda
Date of publication - December 7, 2004
Disclaimer - Andromeda is owned by Tribune, the bums.
Feedback address - maryavatar AT gmail.com
Advertisement: Part of the Slash Advent Calendar of 2004 at
http://www.kardasi.com/Advent/2004/SAC-2004.htm
Note - While it is possible to sing the caption on this image to tune of 'Santa Baby', I deny any accusations of filking.

FANTASY

Buffy - Spike/Xander

Author: Jeyhawk
Title: All Spike wants for Christmas is…
Date: December 7
Fandom: Buffy The Vampire Slayer
Pairing: Spike/Xander
Rating: PG 13
Summary: Spike wants Xander for his gift. Will he get him?
Disclaimer: Spike, Xander and Dawn are not my characters. They are borrowed from a TV show.
Feedback address: jeyhawkgaidin@hotmail.com
Advertisement: Part of the SAC-2004 at: http://www.kardasi.com/Advent/2004/SAC-2004.htm 
Note: Merry Christmas!
Beta: CeeGirl

-All Spike wants for Christmas is…-

"What do you want for Christmas Spike?"

"Nothing."

"But you must want something."

"Of course I do, but it's nothing that I can have."

"Why? Is it too expensive?"

"No, it's not willing."

Having said that Spike turned around and stalked out of the apartment slamming the door on his heel.

"Well… I'm sorry for asking," Xander said to no one in particular, wondering what had crept up Spike's creek and died.

**********

"I want him," Spike whined.

"I know."

"I mean what does those bints he keep trailing after have that I don't have?"

"Oh I don't know… a pulse maybe?"

"I can get a pacemaker."

"Breasts?"

"Implants."

"A tan?"

"There are lotions for that you know."

Dawn gave an exasperated sigh. "I'm sure he'll find you a lot more attractive with a pacemaker, breast implants and dipped in tanning lotion. Good idea. Try that."

"Bitch."

"Idiot."

Spike flopped down on his back on Dawn's bed. "I hate this."

"Me too."

"But he's wonderful."
"I know."

"Should I talk to him?"

"Yes."

"What if he throws me out, flat on my arse?"

"You can live here. I'm sure Buffy won't mind too much."

"He'll think I'm pathetic."

"Who can fault him?"

"Very funny."

"I know."

Spike stared at the roof and sighed. Falling in love with Xander was worse than having his soul pulled back into his body. It was lots more difficult to deal with and potentially even more hurtful. Inside it felt like he was William again, pining after a lover he could never have. William wrote horrible love poetry for Cecily, Spike cooked dinner for Xander. Cooking was not as obvious as writing poetry and it had the added advantage of him being sure that his love ate something that did not come out of a fast food restaurant, but it marked him as a pathetic tosser none the less.

"He did ask what I wanted for Christmas though."

"He did?" Dawn sounded surprised. "That's sweet. What did you say?"

"Urm…" Spike pulled a pillow over his face and decided not to answer, ever.

*********

"Dawn, can I tell you something personal?"

"Sure, everybody else treats me like their personal shrink so why not you too."

Xander hesitated for a second. Dawn and Spike were friends, it was possible that she would run off and tell him about Xander's problems so that they could have a jolly good laugh at his expense.

"You can't tell anyone."

"Of course not," Dawn drawled. "Suck the fun out of it, why don't you?"

"Okay, so here goes nothing. I'm in love with Spike."

"What?"

"I'm in love with Spike."

Dawn's mouth moved but no sound was coming out of it.

"It's not that uncommon, you know," Xander said petulantly. "Gayness, I mean."

Dawn finally found her breath and started laughing. She laughed and laughed until Xander was afraid she'd pop a vein.

"It's not that funny," he said, trying to calm her down.

"Yes, it is," she gasped. "If you were me you'd see the humour too."

"I doubt it."

"Yes, you would, and by the way… I know what Spike wants for Christmas."

"You do? What is it?"

Dawn leaned over and whispered it in his ear.

*********
It was the night before Christmas, the night that Xander had dubbed The Night in his mind, but suddenly he had no idea how to bring the subject up. Tying a red ribbon around his neck was too obvious and he would feel real silly with a red ribbon around his neck anyway. Besides Spike probably wouldn't get the oh so subtle hint that Xander was on the menu and wouldn't that be awkward. He gave his flatmate a furtive glance that almost turned into an outright stare. Evil male creatures of the night did not have the right to be so god dammed beautiful. Cheekbones higher and more well defined than the Himalayas, eyes so blue they seemed to look straight into his soul, white blond hair gelled into perfection, and a body that made Xander's mouth water.

"I'm taking a shower," Spike suddenly said and got up from the couch.

"Okay," Xander answered.

Spike disappeared into his room and came back seconds later wearing only a towel. Xander ogled him from the safety of the living room until he disappeared into the bathroom. Then he jumped up and rushed into his room, sure that he had finally found his opportune moment. With the pulse of an old granny who just walked up two sets of stairs he yanked his clothes off and went to join Spike in the shower. Unfortunately though his nerve left him when he put the hand to the doorknob, suddenly his opportune moment seemed more like a sleazy gay porno moment and that was not what he wanted. He wanted great sex with a finish of love and tenderness, not a quickie in the shower; time for a new plan.

*********

Spike stepped out of the shower and shook the water out of his hair with an impatient shake of his head. He was so full of nervous energy that he didn't know what to do with himself. Living so closely to Xander was becoming more and more of a strain with each passing day. He couldn't stop watching Xander, couldn't stop wanting him, and couldn't stop dreaming about him. If things continued like this he might have to move as not to embarrass himself completely and that thought scared the shit out of him. He was pretty sure he couldn't live without the dark eyed, dark haired man-puppy in his life.

Making sure the towel was safely wrapped around his waist Spike opened the door to the bathroom. Surprised to say the least when he found a very naked Xander standing outside the door. They stared at each other for a few seconds before Spike finally found his voice.

"Xander… You're naked," he said dumbly.

"Uhm… Yeah… Merry Christmas."

"To you too," Spike answered, silently thinking that maybe Xander had lost his mind completely.

"No, I mean… Fuck it."

Xander disappeared into his room only to come back a few seconds later wearing a red ribbon around his neck.

"Merry Christmas," he said again, but this time he was smiling.

Spike blinked, then blinked again. Surely it could not mean what he thought it meant, or could it? He moved closer inch-by-inch, waiting for a sign that Xander was about to balk. The dark haired man didn't, but Spike could hear the thunder of his racing heartbeat and knew that the calm pose was just that, a pose. Tentatively he reached up and touched Xander's face, letting his fingers rest against warm skin. Xander didn't flinch but rather leaned into the touch pressing his face against Spike's shower warmed fingers.

"I love you," Spike said deciding to lay himself bare to begin with.

Xander's smile was like a sunrise. "I love you too," he whispered and than they kissed.

The kiss went on forever and ever, until Xander ran completely out of breath and had to pull away panting. Spike granted him a few gasped mouthfuls of air before he dove in again, plundering that delicious hot mouth with lips, teeth and tongue.

"Oh Gods," Xander gasped when he pulled away again. "I think I'm gonna faint."

"If you do, you better have something soft to land on," Spike said with something of a leer.

"Yeah I'd better," Xander agreed and together they walked into Xander's bedroom closing the door behind them.

**********

Xander woke the next morning to the insistent sound of the phone ringing. He reached out and fumbled around the nightstand until he finally found it and brought it to his ear.

"Xander," he said groggily.

"It's just me."

"Hi Dawn."

Spike stirred beside him at the mention of Dawn's name.

"Tell her thanks from me," he murmured in Xander's ear.

"Was that Spike I heard?" Dawn asked.

"Yeah."

She laughed softly. "Then I guess this is a Merry Christmas after all."

"Yeah," Xander answered. "The best damned Christmas ever."

-The End-

FANTASY

Smallville: Clark/Lex

Author: Allie
Title: His Fallen Angel
Rating: R
Pairing: Clark/Lex
Summary: The strangest things turn Lex on…
Show: Smallville
Date of publication: Dec. 7, 2004
Disclaimer: These characters belong to the WB and DC Comics. Unfortunately!
Feedback address: slashything@gmail.com 
Part of the Slash Advent Calendar of 2004 at: http://www.kardasi.com/Advent/2004/SAC-2004.htm

HIS FALLEN ANGEL

The knock at the door was quickly followed by Clark wishing, for the third time in an hour, for the floor to open up and swallow him down. It had been mildly embarrassing when Lana had stopped by and then left stammering and blushing. It had been moderately terrifying when Chloe had then shown up, camera in hand of course, and had left red faced from laughing. But this…this one was the very worst, for when Martha opened the door, there stood Lex.

To his credit Lex neither laughed nor blushed…no, he simply looked way up and gave Clark his trademark smirk.

From his position atop a kitchen chair, Clark could only pray, blush and silently chant every word he knew that would have gotten him a mouth full of soap from his mother.

"Clark?" It was apparent that Lex was now struggling to maintain his composure. "I know that football and all that manly stuff is over…but perhaps going to the very opposite pole is a bit extreme."

As Clark stood, the blush now drifting down his chest, he glared down at his folliclely challenged friend and swore silent retribution. He even for a moment considered setting Lex's lavender shirt on fire.

Martha came to the rescue, though, just before the silent threats could become an act of arson. "Now, Lex! It isn't nice to tease. Besides…Clark isn't becoming a cross dresser, this is for the Christmas play at church." She stepped back to admire her handiwork, giving Lex his first fully unimpeded view of Clark. He promptly lost his fight to stifle his laughter, for there stood Clark in all his glory. And a dress. An ivory silky garment with gold trim. And wings. "Wings!" Lex could hardly get the word out for laughing, and had to lean on the doorframe to stay upright. "You…you have wings!"

Clark watched as his friend roared with laughter, then, all the while feigning indignence, reached down and brought a gold halo up to rest atop his unruly dark curls.

"Boys!" Martha pretended to be shocked. "Behave yourselves, or there will be no…" She was interrupted by a call from outside. "I have to go help Jonathan. Clark…don't move there are still pins in the hem." She was much less worried about her impenetrable son than her hours of hard work, but Lex didn't need to know that.

Lex, for his part, simply opened the door with a flourish as Clark's mother left enroute to the barn, then closed it firmly behind her. When he turned back to Clark the smirk was gone – replaced by a look of hunger and need.

"An angel, Clark?" He shook his head as he slowly circled the chair. "Only in Smallville would the 6'3" dark haired male be cast as the angel of the Christmas play."

Clark snickered. "I think Mom volunteered me for the job." He looked down, trying to gauge just how far above his knees the hem actually fell.

"Remind me to thank her later", Lex intoned, clearly distracted the view and the availability of so much skin. He reached out one hand and drifted the fingers from Clark's ankle up to the bend of his knee, where he lingered just stroking the soft skin.

Clark jerked at the unexpected touch, then flushed scarlet as his body began to react to Lex…a reaction that the flimsy material of the costume did nothing to hide. "Stop that!" He swatted ineffectively at Lex's hand. "Stop…unless of course you intend to explain this", a frantic gesture pointed out the tented fabric, "to Mom…and then you can explain to Dad's shotgun just how long we've been together, and why we didn't tell them."

The mere mention of Jonathan's name was enough to kill the mood for Lex, and he quickly withdrew his hand. Now all Clark had to do was find a way to tame his cock before his mother returned.

"So…exactly how many people have seen you like this?" Lex had gone into thinking mode, and Clark could see he was headed directly for possessive and jealous modes as well.

Just thinking about the earlier humiliations was enough to return the blush to his face, much to Lex's delight. "Chloe came with a camera!" His attempt at sounding indignant was ruined by the erection still clearly showing. "I guess Lana told her…she was here first." And as if by magic the mention of the PeptoPrincess quelled Clark's erection almost instantly!

Lex's smirk returned as he made a mental note to offer Chloe new computers and dedicated terminal access in exchange for copies of any photos she managed to take. His hand had left Clark's leg, but had remained on the hem of the costume, toying with the fabric. "Um…Clark?" He looked up into a most angelic face. "About tomorrow night…" Clark looked down into clear blue. "Think you could bring this with you?" This time the pink tinted the tips of Lex's ears.

Clark's look of shock was quickly transformed into a hunger that matched Lex's, then into humor as he thought that the strangest things turn Lex on. "Maybe…What did you have in mind?" His fingers lightly brushed his lover's cheek.

"What I have in mind is no doubt sacrilegious, and I seriously doubt you'll have any trouble figuring out just what I want to do to you."

Clark feigned surprise. "You want to corrupt..to debauch an angel? Lex!"

Before Lex could answer, though, Martha made a sudden reappearance in the kitchen. Lex edged toward the open door. "I'll see you tomorrow night, Clark." He was poised for a quick getaway when Martha turned back to him.

"Lex?" She gave him an openly appraising look. "Won't you stay for coffee and pie? I'll be finished with Gabriel here in a few minutes."

Lex first grinned up at Clark, and then turned the same smile on Martha. "As much as I'd love a piece of your pie Mrs…Martha, "he caught himself before she could correct him, "I have a conference call in a few minutes that I mustn't be late for." He bade them both a quick goodbye and left in his signature cloud of dust.

True to her word it took only a few minutes for Martha to complete the pinning of the hem. "There…All done. You can change now, Clark. Then why don't you take some pie over to Lex? That boy needs to eat more." She walked away still shaking her head.

Clark left in a whirl, only to return seconds later. The costume, wings and halo were handed off to his mother, and Clark was out the door, pie in hand less than a minute later.

He had no intention of actually seeing Lex, though, and used all his abilities to get in and out of the mansion unseen.

From a hilltop not far away Clark watched as Lex finished up his business call, and then wandered into the kitchen. He saw the surprise the moment Lex saw the pie, and watched as Lex picked up the note he had attached to a single white feather.

Lex read the note with a small private smile on his face, and then tucked the feather carefully into the note for safe keeping.

Clark shared the smile as he watched Lex read his simple words. 'Until tomorrow night – Your Fallen Angel'

Lex had finished the pie and returned to work before Clark finally left the hilltop and headed home. He thought of Lex's words -'Only in Smallville would the 6'3" dark haired male be cast as the angel of the Christmas play.' – then added his own… 'Only in Smallville would the son of the devil, as Lionel was widely regarded, fall in love with an angel from another planet.' He couldn't wait for tomorrow!

END

MOVIEVERSE

The Shawshank Redemption - Andy/Red

Title: "A Bottle of Christmas Cheer"
Author: Catyah -- written for 2004 Slash Advent Calendar
Movie: The Shawshank Redemption.
Pairing: Andy/Red.
Warnings: mention of rapes past.
Disclaimer: Not mine. I don’t know if these characters belong to Stephen King, or to the movie makers. But I'm only doing this for the fun and the love of writing, not the money, anyway. <smile>
Feedback: Insatiablewebmistress@yahoo.com
Thanks to Arouette for the beta! http://riptide.popullus.net/

A Bottle of Christmas Cheer

Looking around first, to make sure the guards weren't watching, I followed Andy into one of the small back rooms in the laundry. Christmas was coming, so everyone seemed to be more unhappy than usual. Prison is a pretty shitty place to be under normal circumstance, but during the holiday season, the quiet people get quieter, and the violent people -- well, let's just say it gets even more ugly than usual around here.

Andy is a quiet person, so I sort of expected this from him. But he seemed worse off, lately. And he had a new set of bruises on his face. Somebody had been after him again, and from the looks of him, Andy had fought. And lost. When he went back to get another barrel of detergent, I went after him.

"Hey, Andy," I said quietly, stepping backwards when he turned to face me with a furious look. It was replaced quickly with an apologetic expression and a regretful shake of his head.

"Red. You startled me."

"Sorry. Thought you heard me. I didn't mean to scare you."

Andy sighed, turning back to the huge barrels of the caustic powder that left our clothes stiff and scratchy. "It's all right. I guess I'm just on edge, lately."

"Yeah, I noticed."

"What can I do for you?" There was a tenseness to Andy's posture and voice that was unfamiliar to me. Even when he first spoke to me in the exercise yard, his voice had -- hell, it was like meeting someone at a cocktail party, I guess. Not that I've been to many cocktail parties, even before I got here. But there was that ease about him. It was gone, now, and I discovered how much I really missed it.

"Huh. Well, actually, I came to talk you about what I could do for you." Andy looked back at me over his shoulder, eyebrows raised incredulously. "Christmas is coming up."

Andy nodded briefly, but he didn't have an answer for that.

"I just wanted to see if you wanted your annual order from me. Bottle of brandy?" There were quite a few men in Shawshank who had me get bottles for them, especially this time of year. A little Christmas cheer for an otherwise drab day, or a quiet celebration for the new year. Although, come to think of it, why anybody would want to celebrate another year passing in this place -- I shook my head to bring myself back to the current situation. Andy was talking. "Huh?" I interrupted. Andy looked a little annoyed.

"I said, I don't think so, Red. Not this year."

"Not even gonna give yourself one drink, this time?" Andy was different from everybody else, even those guys who got a bottle for the holiday. He took one drink at Christmas, and another on New Year's Day, and then gave the bottle back to me, to pass around to his -- friends? Were we really his friends? Or merely passing acquaintances in this gray-uniformed cocktail party of his?

"No. Not this year."

"Having a rough time?" I asked quietly. I looked back briefly to make sure the guards weren't hanging around. I didn't expect any, though. One of the extra bonuses of my position as the "I can get it for you guy". I could afford to pay off a guard or two to mind his own business if I needed to. I was saving up to get 'promoted' to a better job, but that was a long ways away, yet. Andy was still being quiet, and I pointed to his bruises, being careful not to touch. "What's the matter, Andy? God knows you're not the first guy to get caught in the shower or wherever, and you're sure not gonna be the last. Moping around here is only gonna make you more vulnerable to getting grabbed again. And hell, it wasn't exactly your first time, either."

A hurt looked flashed in his eyes, and I felt guilty for saying that out loud. But you've got to face the truth, sometimes, even if you don't want to. Life goes on, right?

"No. It wasn't my first time," he said. "But it was the first time I --" He looked disgusted, and didn't go on.

"First time you what?" He shook his head and wouldn't look at me. "Andy. I've been here a lot longer than you, man. You think I haven't seen what goes on?" I paused, and then forced myself to keep going. "You think I haven't experienced what you're feeling, now?" That made him look up, but his face was unreadable. "Yeah. I've been raped. Here in the laundry, behind those barrels. Back in the projection room during a movie night. Just about everybody has, either been or done it, themselves. Some take, some get taken."

"Yeah, I guess you know about that. But -- Hey, Red?"

"Yeah?"

"I'll bet you never liked it, did you."

"Liked it? What do you mean?"

"I -- maybe liked is the wrong word for it. Hated, more like it. But my -- my body --"

"You got hard. When they fucked you."

"They thought it was pretty funny. I was horrified, Red. I can't -- God, how am I going to go on living after this?"

"By waking up in the morning," I told him. It was the only thing I could think of to say, and it must have worked, somehow, because he finally looked at me. "Same as everybody else. Looking at yourself in the mirror, and knowing that you're not the only one who's gone through that and still gone on."

"You?" he whispered. "You --"

"