New York Rendezvous

<body topmargin=0 leftmargin=0 marginheight=0 marginwidth=0> <table cellpadding=0 cellspacing=0 border=0><tr> <td valign="top" rowspan="2" width=120 BGCOLOR="#FFFFFF" TEXT="#080000" bgproperties="fixed" background="01078642egerdp.jpg"> <bR> </td> <td valign="top" height=428 BGCOLOR="#FFFFFF" TEXT="#080000" bgproperties="fixed" background="00f64643.jpg"> <div> <B>New York Rendezvous</B></div> <div>  <A NAME="new_york_rendezvous"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A></div> <div> <I>Thank you for calling Starlight.  May I help you?</I></div> <bR> <div> "Yes, I'd like to arrange a meeting.  For the weekend."</div> <bR> <div> <I>Of course.  Are you acquainted with one of our representatives?</I></div> <bR> <div> "No.  No, I uh . . . I'm not . . . I've never . . . that is . . ."</div> <bR> <div> <I>I understand, sir.  Let me ask you a few questions first and then we'll take it from there.  Have you ever worked with an agency before?</I></div> <bR> <div> "No, no I haven't."</div> <bR> <div> <I>Alright.  And is this the first time for you to share company with another man?</I></div> <bR> <div> "Ummm, yes."</div> <bR> <div> <I>Okay.  Do you have a preference for physical appearance?</I></div> <bR> <div> "No, I guess not.  I mean, I'm sure your . . . representatives are all reasonably . . ."</div> <bR> <div> <I>Yes, sir, they are.  Would you prefer someone younger than you?</I></div> <bR> <div> "Not really, no."</div> <bR> <div> <I>And how old are you?</I></div> <bR> <div> "Thirty six."</div> <bR> <div> <I>Are there any special activities or requests you have of our representative?</I></div> <bR> <div> "No, I really can't think of any . . . umm, maybe someone with a little more patience than normal.  Since I've, you know, never really done . . . I don't really go in for anything harsh."</div> <bR> <div> <I>I understand completely, sir.  I believe we have someone that will fit the bill quite nicely.  You've received our e-mail explaining our rates and payment policy?</I></div> <bR> <div> "Yes, I have."</div> <bR> <div> <I>Very good.  May I have your credit card number?</I></div> <bR> <div> ++++</div> <bR> <div> Daniel paced nervously in his hotel room.  The clock by the bed read 8:57.  His 'appointment' was scheduled to arrive at nine.  As the seconds ticked away, Daniel grew more convinced that this was the worst idea of his life.  Just as he reached for the phone, there was a sharp knock on the door.  His hand clutched into a fist and he closed his eyes.  With grim determination, he turned toward the door.  A few slow steps and he was there.  Telling himself he would never get this chance again, he turned the handle.</div> <bR> <div> "Daniel Jackson?"</div> <bR> <div> Daniel merely nodded, stunned by the sight before him.</div> <bR> <div> "I'm Jack.  Jack O'Neill.  I believe you're expecting me."</div> <bR> <div> "Yes, certainly.  Please.  Come in."</div> <bR> <div> Daniel held the door open and Jack stepped into the room.  He carried a small overnight bag and a jacket with him.  Tall, over six feet, he was lean and trim.  His hair was mostly silver with an underlying dark brown cast and his eyes were a smoky amber color.  The face that should have seemed old instead looked rugged and incredibly handsome.</div> <bR> <div> "The agency tells me you're in the city giving a lecture at an archeology conference?" Jack asked as he set his things down and scanned the suite.</div> <bR> <div> "Yes, I'm presenting some of my findings from a recent dig in Egypt.  Are you interested in archeology?"</div> <bR> <div> Jack smiled.  "No, can't say as I've ever been terribly interested in things of that nature.  Now airplanes . . . those interest me."</div> <bR> <div> Daniel smiled and moved to the small wet bar.  "Do you fly?"</div> <bR> <div> "Only in my dreams," Jack sighed.  He motioned toward his eyes.  "Eyesight's always been a little too iffy to get my license."</div> <bR> <div> "Ah," Daniel said.  "Can I get you a drink?"</div> <bR> <div> "Sure.  Scotch, if you've got it.  Neat."</div> <bR> <div> "You know," Daniel continued as he fixed the drinks, "I'm curious about how you came to be . . . in this line of work."</div> <bR> <div> "Well that's a long and very boring story," Jack said with a little laugh as he took the drink handed to him.  He noticed Daniel's hand was shaking.  He followed the arm up to the broad shoulders and to the face with movie-star good looks.  This was a man who should be parading around with the most beautiful women in New York, not holed up in a hotel room - no matter how nice - with a pay-by-the-hour male escort.  He was fixated by the man's eyes and the open emotions he saw there.  Fear.  Curiosity.  Anxiousness.  No desire - not yet.  He didn't know if he'd be able to put that emotion in those eyes.  He hoped so - but this man who looked much younger than his supposed thirty-six years didn't seem the type to carry through with the plans for the night.  But - he'd paid for the entire weekend.  What his client got out of it was entirely up to him.</div> <bR> <div> "Would you mind if we . . . talked a bit?" Daniel asked, crossing over to sit in one of the overstuffed chairs.</div> <bR> <div> "Not at all," Jack said, making himself comfortable in the other one.  The standard lines of 'it's your dime' or 'you're the boss' just didn't seem appropriate with this trick.  The agreement was for seventy-two hours.  Three days.  He wasn't about to turn it sour this early in the proceedings.</div> <bR> <div> "So, about that long, boring story."</div> <bR> <div> Jack grinned.  "I'll give you the abridged version."  He sipped at his drink then set it on the table beside him.  "I was headed for the Air Force Academy.  Worked my ass off to get there.  Got in a car accident, had some head trauma and it messed with my vision.  So much for my career as a fighter pilot."</div> <bR> <div> "That must have been horribly disappointing."</div> <bR> <div> "Yeah, it was," Jack said.  "Came to New York on vacation after I got out of the hospital.  Figured since I'd passed up all the good stuff while I was in school, trying to keep my grades up and all for the Academy, I'd give some things a try.  Found out you can make money at them.  I never went back home.  Been here ever since."</div> <bR> <div> "Where's home?"</div> <bR> <div> "Minnesota."</div> <bR> <div> "You are a long way from there," Daniel smiled shyly.</div> <bR> <div> "What about you?  I'm sure you have a story to tell."</div> <bR> <div> "Yes, well.  Mine reads more like a melodrama," Daniel laughed self-consciously.  "My parents were killed when I was very young.  I was put into foster care, moved around a bit.  Finally came to a family here in New York.  Wonderful people.  They adopted me, gave me a good home, helped with my education.  I owe them a lot."</div> <bR> <div> "They sound like nice folks."</div> <bR> <div> Daniel nodded before falling silent.</div> <bR> <div> "You don't seem too thrilled about what it is you've signed on for here," Jack said gently.</div> <bR> <div> Daniel looked up, his eyes troubled.  "I've been . . . curious.  Very . . . curious.  Ever since I was in high school.  I just never did anything about it."</div> <bR> <div> "You've paid a lot of money just to satisfy your . . . curiosity."</div> <bR> <div> "Yes, I have," Daniel said, standing up and beginning to pace slowly.  "This isn't something I've entered into lightly."</div> <bR> <div> "It's not too late to stop," Jack said, feeling a wave of compassion for the younger man.</div> <bR> <div> "Thank you for that.  But . . . I really need to know."  He turned and pinned Jack with eyes as blue as the sky.  "How did you know?  What made you realize . . ."</div> <bR> <div> "First off," Jack said, reclining back and stretching out his legs in front of him, "you're assuming I'm strictly gay.  I'm not.  I'm bi.  I like men equally as well as I like women.  I've always been a man who enjoyed sex with anyone who was able to enjoy their sexuality as much as I enjoyed mine.  Men, women, doesn't matter to me.  I'm equally comfortably with both."</div> <bR> <div> "I thought . . ."</div> <bR> <div> "I know.  Truth is, there are as many, lonely, rich men in this city as there are women.  It doesn't make any difference to me."</div> <bR> <div> "Because their money all spends the same?" Daniel asked.</div> <bR> <div> "It's very rarely about the money, although that is one side benefit of what I do.  You've no doubt noticed I have a few grey hairs," he said, waving his hand at his head.  Daniel couldn't help but smile.  "In a business that thrives on youth and beauty, I have to have more going for me than a big dick, ya know?  I'm nearly fifty years old - I'm not still in this because of my astounding good looks and stamina.  I'm around because I'm very, very good at what I do.  And I'm good at it because I tend to care about my clients.  I care about their needs and their wants.  I take my pleasure, but I do it with them . . . not in spite of them."</div> <bR> <div> "I just . . ." Daniel started, looking exceptionally embarrassed about what he was going to say, "I don't want this to be something dirty.  I want this to be . . . nice."</div> <bR> <div> "What strangers, especially two male strangers, get up to is hardly ever <I>nice</I>," Jack said.  "But I understand what you're saying and that's my intent.  Make this something you'll remember - in a good way."</div> <bR> <div> "I don't intend on finding out what this is like then going wild in the clubs or something," Daniel said.</div> <bR> <div> Jack couldn't help but laugh.  "You don't exactly seem the type."</div> <bR> <div> "It's true," Daniel said as he began laughing.  "I wasn't like that before I was married and I don't plan on being like that now."</div> <bR> <div> Suddenly the room fell very quiet.</div> <bR> <div> "Does she know?" Jack asked.</div> <bR> <div> "No, she's . . . uh."  Daniel swallowed hard.  "She died a few years ago.  Freak car accident.  We'd only been married a year."</div> <bR> <div> "I'm sorry," Jack said.</div> <bR> <div> "Yes, so was I.  Thank you."  Daniel finished his drink in one gulp.  "What about you?  Ever tie the knot?"</div> <bR> <div> Jack shook his head slowly.  "Came close, but I knew I wouldn't be faithful.  I wanted to be.  I was the whole time we were together, but I couldn't take that one final step.  She'll always be the one that got away."</div> <bR> <div> An uncomfortable silence fell between the two men.  Jack could practically feel Daniel's reticence coming back in waves.  He stood and walked to the stereo system and fiddled with the controls until the slow, mellow tunes of the big band era filled the room as 'Moonlight Serenade' began to play.</div> <bR> <div> Daniel turned to watch as the older man walked across the room and turned out the lights, then crossed to the tall windows and pulled the curtains wide, showing a spectacular view of Manhattan in all its twinkling night time glory.  Jack turned one bedside lamp on very low then held out his hand to Daniel.  "Come here.  Dance with me."</div> <bR> <div> "Dance?" Daniel asked in surprise.</div> <bR> <div> "Yeah.  I like dancing.  I never get to do this enough.  Come on, humor an old man."</div> <bR> <div> With a snuff of laughter Daniel crossed the room and stood before Jack nervously.  "Who leads?" he tried to joke.</div> <bR> <div> "Neither one of us," Jack whispered.  He stepped in close to Daniel, slid his hands down the trembling arms and laced his fingers with Daniel's.  "We just lean, and . . . sway."</div> <bR> <div> "Lean and . . ."</div> <bR> <div> "Sway."</div> <bR> <div> "Sway," Daniel acknowledged.  He took a tentative step into Jack and felt the jolt of surprise deep in his stomach as chest, hips and knees met.</div> <bR> <div> Jack nuzzled his way along the side of Daniel's face and began rocking them slowly to the soft music playing around them.</div> <bR> <div> "Do you dance with all of your . . ."</div> <bR> <div> "Ssssshhhhhh . . . not talking.  Swaying."</div> <bR> <div> "Swaying.  Right.  Swaying."  Daniel let out a long, slow breath and took the initiative by laying his head on Jack's shoulder.  His heart was racing wildly and he felt completely out of breath, but there was something very calming about being close to Jack, feeling his strength and breathing in his scent.  "I feel like I'm in some bad 1940's b-movie."</div> <bR> <div> Jack chuckled and draped his arms comfortably around Daniel's hips.  "Quiet or I'll dip you at the end of the song."</div> <bR> <div> Daniel couldn't help but laugh quietly.  "So then I'd be Ginger to your Fred."</div> <bR> <div> "Leave my Fred out of this," Jack murmured against Daniel's neck.</div> <bR> <div> Daniel smiled and looked out the window at the lights of the city below.  "This sort of music fits this city."</div> <bR> <div> "This is a great town - best in the world."</div> <bR> <div> "It always says home to me.  When I fly back from an expedition, as soon as I see that skyline, I know I'm really back."</div> <bR> <div> "You get to travel much?"</div> <bR> <div> "Not as much as I'd like.  Funding's scarce and the world situation right now isn't exactly conducive to large scale foreign digs in far eastern countries."</div> <bR> <div> "You live here in the City or . . ."</div> <bR> <div> "Chicago, actually.  I'm on staff at the Oriental Institute."</div> <bR> <div> "Why does that make me think of small, dusty loft apartments and tweed jackets?"</div> <bR> <div> "Careful," Daniel warned good-naturedly.  "God, what is this we're listening to?"</div> <bR> <div> "That was 'Danny-boy,' I believe," Jack said.  He began moving his hands slowly up and down Daniel's tense back.  "And unless I miss my guess . . . this would be 'Stardust.'"</div> <bR> <div> "You a fan of Glenn Miller much?"</div> <bR> <div> "It shows?" Jack asked innocently, pulling back to look into Daniel's face.  "Nine Inch Nails just didn't seem to be the right thing to set the mood.  Besides, I like this stuff."</div> <bR> <div> "I'm nervous as hell," Daniel confessed.</div> <bR> <div> "I know," Jack said.  He didn't give any assurances or promises he couldn't keep about everything being okay or that Daniel would like it once they got down to business.  Quite honestly, he was having trouble thinking at all while looking into the clear blue eyes before him.</div> <bR> <div> "It's going to hurt, isn't it?"</div> <bR> <div> Jack nodded.  "Yeah, it will.  No matter how careful I am, it'll hurt.  Gets better with time and practice."</div> <bR> <div> "I assume there's some sort of protocol for this," Daniel asked nervously.</div> <bR> <div> "Protocol?" Jack asked gently.  "You make this sound like a diplomatic mission."</div> <bR> <div> "There must be some sort of rules," Daniel said quietly, his attention fixed on Jack's mouth.</div> <bR> <div> "The agency told you how to . . . prepare?"</div> <bR> <div> Daniel nodded.  "Yeah, I uh . . . I did all that before you got here."</div> <bR> <div> "Then we're good to go.  Just try to relax and enjoy."</div> <bR> <div> "You see, that's where I'm running into difficulty," Daniel said with a quick, nervous smile.  "I'm standing here, in the arms of a man I don't know, dancing to big band music, knowing that I've paid him to shove his dick up my ass.  It's not conducive to relaxation at this point."</div> <bR> <div> "No, not if you think of it in those terms," Jack said against Daniel's hair.  They danced for a while longer before Jack began to speak in soft, low tones.  "How about this?  You've been granted a weekend of nothing but physical pleasure . . . the only rule is that you can't be afraid to try or experience anything.  The only demands you have to succumb to are those of your body - the only orders you take are from your senses."  A small shiver traveled through Daniel's body so he continued.  "Imagine all the places on your body that you want to be touched, or licked . . . or sucked.  I'm here to do that for you."</div> <bR> <div> Daniel reached his arms around Jack and pulled him closer.  "Keep talking," he whispered into the warm neck.</div> <bR> <div> "All the things you've ever wanted to try but have never been able to . . . you can do them, here . . . with me.  Alone in this room, we can do whatever we want, be whatever we want.  You're safe - so safe."</div> <bR> <div> "I want so much," Daniel breathed.  He nuzzled under Jack's ear.</div> <bR> <div> "It's yours for the taking," Jack answered, leaning into the caresses.  Reaching out, he managed to snag the stereo remote and flip the pre-set to a soft jazz station.  Daniel sighed in response and brought their bodies closer.  Jack tightened his embrace.  "That's it," he whispered, "don't be afraid."  Jack ground his pelvis against Daniel's.  "See what you do to me?"</div> <bR> <div> A small grunt and a reciprocal thrust was Daniel's answer.  "Make me feel," he said softly.</div> <bR> <div> Jack pulled his head back and trapped Daniel's face between his hands.  "I intend to."  He looked longingly at the slightly open mouth of his client.  "I also intend to kiss you.  A great deal."</div> <bR> <div> Daniel nodded and Jack swooped in hungrily.  Stunned by the strength and power of the kiss, Daniel floundered at first before finding his bearings.  Once he did, Jack groaned with approval as his mouth was expertly explored.  Before realizing what was happening, Daniel had him pinned to the bed.  Jack couldn't help but smile.  For being so nervous only minutes before, Daniel was doing a fine job of playing catch-up.</div> <bR> <div> Jack knew that Daniel was on the road to combustion and if he didn't slow this train down, things would be over before they started.  Making sure to move with care he rolled Daniel over and gentled him with ever softening kisses and licks.</div> <bR> <div> "Don't," Daniel begged.  "If you stop, I'll lose my nerve."</div> <bR> <div> "No, you won't," Jack smiled.  He settled his legs on either side of Daniel's hips, straddling the man comfortably.  Daniel gave a small surge up with his hips, testing Jack's balance.  A wicked grin crossed Jack's face as he ground down against Daniel's swollen and sensitive groin.  The thrusts were less forceful, but rhythmic as Daniel realized that this, too, had its benefits.</div> <bR> <div> "I want to see you naked," Daniel panted, reaching up for Jack's shirt.  "I want to touch you."</div> <bR> <div> Whole hearted compliance followed as Jack peeled away his shirt to reveal the lightly furred chest below.  "Touch wherever and however you want," Jack said as he leaned in for another kiss.</div> <bR> <div> Daniel rolled to the side, bringing Jack down beside him and quickly yanked his own shirt off over his head.  Jack ran his hands over the warm skin.  "That is <I>so</I> nice," Jack whispered.  He watched as Daniel hurriedly unfastened then undid his own pants.  "In a hurry?" he smiled.</div> <bR> <div> "I've been dragging my feet for damn near twenty years over this," Daniel grunted as he shoved his pants down.  "I'm tired of waiting."</div> <bR> <div> Jack hooked his thumbs in his own waistband and shoved pants and shorts down and off his legs.  When Daniel turned back to him, he watched as the blue eyes grew large.  "That's not gonna fit," Daniel breathed.</div> <bR> <div> "Sure it will," Jack said, settling their two bodies together, "but not this time around.  This time, I just want to get you off."  </div> <bR> <div> Daniel's hand moved before Jack could think and he found himself grunting in pleasure as his cock was gripped in the warm, curious grasp of the scholar.  </div> <bR> <div> "So familiar, but so different."  He smiled shyly up at Jack.  "Nice and hard."</div> <bR> <div> Jack smiled back.  "Tell you what," he said, rolling his hips and setting up a slow steady rhythm.  "You do a little peaceful exploring and I'll just lay here and let ya."</div> <bR> <div> "Okay," Daniel agreed with a nod.</div> <bR> <div> "You just . . . do whatever you want."</div> <bR> <div> "Anything?" Daniel asked suddenly.</div> <bR> <div> "Of course," Jack returned.  "Lick, suck . . . put your fingers in me - or your tongue if you want.  Anything."</div> <bR> <div> "This is very, very different from being with a woman," Daniel chuckled.  "I like this."</div> <bR> <div> "You'll like it even more later on, trust me on that," Jack grinned.  He settled down to watch as Daniel began his slow, careful discovery.  Underestimation was Jack's first mistake and he grunted in surprise as Daniel pushed his legs up and apart just moments before descending on his balls.  He couldn't help the laugh that escaped.</div> <bR> <div> "What?" Daniel asked as he slurped his way from one nut to the other.</div> <bR> <div> "I thought you'd start in with something simple," Jack replied.  His large hands grabbed behind his knees, pulling them up and apart further for the other man.</div> <bR> <div> "I don't have time to start simple and work up," Daniel muttered against the warm, pliant flesh.</div> <bR> <div> Jack hissed in a breath as he felt the ring of his ass pushed open by Daniel's invading tongue.  "Oh god," he chuckled helplessly, "I can tell you're gonna test my control."</div> <bR> <div> "You like this?"</div> <bR> <div> "You went for the money on your first try . . . what do you think?"</div> <bR> <div> Daniel smiled triumphantly and rolled Jack back farther so the man's shoulders were taking the majority of his weight, and began tonguing the twitching opening before him with abandon.  He was so turned on he could barely see straight, and the small sounds coming from Jack were going straight to his balls.  He pressed his nose into the satin-soft perineum and rejoiced as Jack gave a low, guttural moan.  Spit slicked fingers were pushed in next and Jack's body jerked at the increase in stimulation.  Daniel was careful, probing gently, feeling for the nub that would show the location of Jack's prostate.  When he heard Jack catch his breath suddenly then sigh, he tried to concentrate on what it was he'd just felt.  He pushed upwards again, dragging his fingertips over the soft skin inside.  Jack jerked once more and Daniel nodded to himself.  He could feel it easily now.  Keeping even pressure over the spot, Daniel began to rub his fingers in circles, watching as Jack ground down onto his hand.</div> <bR> <div> "Yeah, right there," Jack panted.  "Jesus, that's good."</div> <bR> <div> Daniel helped Jack stretch out a little more before settling down to his next task.  His free hand grasped Jack's ruddy, hard shaft and he placed the head in his mouth.  Jack let out a small whimper as his hips bucked up slightly and one hand came to rest on the back of Daniel's head.  A 'pop' sounded as Daniel yanked the crown of Jack's cock from his mouth.</div> <bR> <div> "Will you teach me how to deep throat?" he asked, licking his way down the veined, rough shaft.</div> <bR> <div> "I will, but not this time," Jack panted.  "Christ, you've got me on the edge already and we've barely even started."</div> <bR> <div> "That's good, right?"</div> <bR> <div> "Not for me," Jack groaned.  "I make my living by being able to hold out for days."</div> <bR> <div> Daniel's smug grin didn't escape Jack's notice.  "But that's good, right?"</div> <bR> <div> "Yeah," Jack smiled back, "that's real good."</div> <bR> <div> Daniel eased back, not wanting Jack to let go yet.  He kept his fingers buried inside the other man, but his mouth began to roam, licking and tasting, sucking, leaving small bite marks at the juncture of groin and hip.  When he grew tired and his jaws achy, he disentangled himself from Jack and kissed his way up the sweaty body.</div> <bR> <div> Jack immediately took the offensive and started his own exploration.  Not a square inch of skin went unlicked on his way to Daniel's thick, pale cock.  Once between Daniel's legs, Jack spent his time stroking and examining the straining erection, playing with the foreskin, sucking gently at all the most sensitive areas.  When Daniel lifted and spread his legs in invitation, Jack could barely contain his enthusiasm as Daniel's hole winked at him in excitement.  Without preamble, he thrust his tongue inside as far as he could, the sharp taste exploding on his tongue.  Both men groaned as Jack pushed his tongue in and out rhythmically.</div> <bR> <div> From above him, Jack heard the chanted, "please please please," that let him know Daniel was teetering on the edge of completion.  He decided to give Daniel a taste of his own medicine and slid one finger slowly inside, easily finding the prostate, while at the same time letting Daniel slide well down into his throat.  Daniel's back arched when Jack brushed his finger rapidly over the smooth bump inside.  A few more minutes and Jack's mouth was flooded with the taste of Daniel as large, warm spurts of fluid flowed out from the head.  Jack swallowed greedily, wanting the taste of this extraordinary man in his mouth.  His finger felt the contractions of Daniel's body as he groaned and panted his way through a long, bone melting orgasm.  When he was finished, Jack let the cock slip from his lips as he withdrew his finger and began to kiss his way up the nearly flawless body.</div> <bR> <div> Before he knew what was happening, he was on his back, legs splayed wide and Daniel's mouth sucking greedily at the tip of his cock.  Jack let himself slide into that place of need he very rarely felt with anyone, and certainly never with clients.  "God, yesssss," he hissed, his hand twisted into Daniel's soft hair.  Fingers pressed into his ass, hooking and making contact with his prostate, and he fell fully back into the pillows, rocking easily into Daniel's mouth, then back onto his hand.  "Gonna come," he warned.</div> <bR> <div> Daniel backed off a bit, then sucked Jack's tender left nut into his mouth while jerking him fast and hard.  Jack cried out as the first sharp spears of orgasm tore through him and he spilled his load onto his stomach and over the strong hand of his partner.</div> <bR> <div> Humming with appreciation, Daniel slowed his movements, ending with gentle caresses and kisses as he moved his way back up Jack's body.  He lay atop him, rubbing his stomach in the warm, wet streaks of Jack's come.  "That was incredible," Daniel said, moving in for a kiss flavored with his own essence.  "Can we do it again?"</div> <bR> <div> "Not right now," Jack laughed.  "I warned ya."</div> <bR> <div> "You don't have to be hard to use your tongue," Daniel purred as he nuzzled his way down Jack's neck.</div> <bR> <div> "Let's get in the shower," Jack said, "see what comes up in there."</div> <bR> <div> "That's a really . . . terrible pun."</div> <bR> <div> "I got a million of 'em."</div> <bR> <div> ++++</div> <bR> <div> The smell of Chinese food filled the room the second Daniel opened the door.  He paid the delivery boy then walked quickly to the bed where Jack was waiting.  Discarding his robe, he climbed onto the mattress and opened the bag of food.  "Pot stickers for you," he said, handing Jack a styrofoam container, "crab Rangoon for me.  Pork buns for both.  Almond chicken for you and Hunan beef for me."  They portioned out the rice and soup then settled down for a feast.</div> <bR> <div> Jack smiled as Daniel sat cross-legged in the middle of the bed.  "Nice view," he said, his eyes lingering on Daniel's groin.</div> <bR> <div> "Thought you'd enjoy that," smirked Daniel as he crunched happily into his appetizer.</div> <bR> <div> "Show off."  Jack hungrily dove into his food.</div> <bR> <div> "Do you ever get tired of this?" Daniel asked.  "Just . . . drifting between one encounter and another?"</div> <bR> <div> Jack tensed as Daniel brought up his least favorite subject - the 'work.'  With anyone else he would have shoved the question aside and turned the topic to something else.  Not this time.  "I take time off - come back to this when I want to replenish my savings account."</div> <bR> <div> "But you're working less and less, aren't you?"  Daniel's eyes glanced at him knowingly.</div> <bR> <div> Jack nodded.  "Yeah."  He had more than enough money to retire on, he knew that.  He'd invested, bought properties - he was set.  But he hadn't given up the life . . . not yet.  Never had a reason to.  He glanced at Daniel and a thought flitted through his mind that he ruthlessly quashed before it had a chance to fully form.</div> <bR> <div> "On the face of it, this would seem to be the perfect life . . . all the sex, all the money.  But I have to think it's a pretty lonely existence."</div> <bR> <div> "Can be," Jack said quietly as he finished his soup.  "And there are times it can be pretty rough."</div> <bR> <div> "Have you ever been hurt?" Daniel asked carefully as he bit into one of the steamed pork buns.</div> <bR> <div> "A couple times things have gotten out of control."  Jack reached for one of the stuffed pastries as well.</div> <bR> <div> "I'm sorry that's happened to you," Daniel said sincerely.  "You deserve to be treated better than that."</div> <bR> <div> Jack looked up, surprised by the reply.  "In this line of work, you expect some things to happen.  It wasn't pleasant, but it's in the past and you move on, ya know?"  He tried out a shy smile on Daniel.  "Times like this make up for it."</div> <bR> <div> It was Daniel's turn to look surprised.  "Times like . . . this?"  He swirled his chopsticks in the air to encompass the room.  "Having to spend the weekend with a horny academic who, in his mid-thirties, has suddenly decided to explore his sexuality?"</div> <bR> <div> "Well, when you say it like <I>that</I> . . ." Jack laughed.  "It's just that this hits a major kink button of mine and I'm enjoying myself.  Much more than I usually do."</div> <bR> <div> "You're enjoying my complete ineptitude?" Daniel laughed around a mouthful of food.</div> <bR> <div> "That's not how I see it," Jack said quietly.  "It's not . . . dirty . . . with you.  Everything's fresh, new.  Innocence isn't something I come by very often."</div> <bR> <div> "I'm hardly innocent," Daniel scoffed as he tore into his main dish.</div> <bR> <div> Jack nodded slowly.  He tapped the center of his chest.  "In here," he explained.  "There's something very . . . unsullied . . . about you.  You have a good heart."</div> <bR> <div> Daniel gave a slightly embarrassed shrug.  "I try and be decent to people, you know?  Life in academic circles can be pretty cut throat, especially over funding and I try not to let that taint me.  I'm still in this for the love of the game, so to speak.  When the other part starts to be more important than the research, I'll step away.  I don't want to become like some of the professors I've seen."</div> <bR> <div> "You really love the stuff, don't you?  All the scratching around in the dirt, all the study."</div> <bR> <div> A glow spread from Daniel's face to his eyes.  He nodded.  "It's like . . . going to another world, visiting a culture that's completely alien from what we know.  But it's a puzzle because we don't understand all of it.  That's my job, to find the pieces that will help us solve the puzzle."</div> <bR> <div> "See?  That.  Right there."  Jack pointed his fork at Daniel.  "That's what I'm talking about.  The passion and drive you have."</div> <bR> <div> "And you consider that innocence?"</div> <bR> <div> Jack nodded.  "You haven't become jaded, cynical.  You still believe."</div> <bR> <div> "And most of the people you . . . work . . . for, they've lost that?"</div> <bR> <div> "Yup.  They bury their pain in alcohol, sex . . . some do drugs.  Just to mask the pain of living.  They pay a high price, too.  Not just in money."</div> <bR> <div> "You haven't fallen into that."</div> <bR> <div> "Let's just say I'm not there tonight."</div> <bR> <div> ++++</div> <bR> <div> Sweat ran down Jack's back as he knelt behind Daniel.  "You have to try and relax for me, babe.  Trust me with it."</div> <bR> <div> "I can't," Daniel gritted out.  "It hurts."</div> <bR> <div> "It hurts because you're tensing up," Jack said.  He lay down over Daniel's back and licked slowly between the sweaty shoulder blades.  "Breathe, deep and slow."</div> <bR> <div> Daniel hung his forehead down onto his arms and did as Jack told him.  The pain began to lessen slightly.  He felt Jack begin to rock his hips slowly back and forth, felt the constant licks and kisses across his neck and back, smelled the warm scent of the man as it surrounded them in the bed.</div> <bR> <div> "Bear down, like you're gonna go . . . just like that, nice and easy.  Keep breathing.  That's it . . . yeah, just like . . . awww Christ, just like that."</div> <bR> <div> "I don't think I can do this," Daniel gasped as Jack slid home, stretching him beyond what he thought his body could stand.</div> <bR> <div> "Ssssshhhhh," Jack whispered.  "Let your body adjust.  Just feel me . . . feel me inside.  Yeah.  Yeah, that's nice.  Work your muscles a little bit, see what it feels like to relax them."</div> <bR> <div> Daniel let himself drift on the soft words and the careful touches.  He'd been so incredibly excited just moments before, and now his penis was limp and soft.  But other sensations were starting to spark through him as Jack began to gently thrust in and out of him.  "Something's starting to feel good."</div> <bR> <div> Jack smiled against the hot skin.  "Don't rush this," he whispered, "just let it happen.  Let the feelings come."</div> <bR> <div> "How's it feel to you?" Daniel asked.</div> <bR> <div> "Incredible," Jack murmured.  "Absolutely fucking incredible."</div> <bR> <div> "Tight virgin ass another one of your kinks, Jack?" Daniel snickered.  As soon as he laughed, his muscles relaxed again and Jack slid that last couple inches inside.  Both men groaned.</div> <bR> <div> "Oh yeah," Jack panted.  "It definitely is."  He raised himself back up, holding Daniel by the hips and pushing inside carefully without ever really pulling out.</div> <bR> <div> "Right there," Daniel sighed.  "Just like that.  That feels good."  He felt himself loosen more and he smiled.  "Try it a little harder."</div> <bR> <div> Jack ran his hands over the perfectly shaped ass in front of him and gave an experimental thrust.  He felt the tiny clench of pleasure as he rubbed back and forth across Daniel's prostate.  He closed his eyes and tilted his head back.  It was perfect - the tightness, the heat.  His cock surged with pleasure and he rocked his hips in a slow, easy rhythm.</div> <bR> <div> Daniel reached underneath himself and began stroking the skin of his perineum.  Jack knew now that this was Daniel's ultimate hot spot and he smiled as the long fingers rubbed and stroked, moving back even farther to feel his dick sliding in and out of the tight hole.</div> <bR> <div> "Oh, gawwwd," Daniel groaned into the pillow as his dick began to come to life once again.  "That's feeling so much better."</div> <bR> <div> "Let yourself go with it, Daniel," Jack said.  "I'm here with ya . . . just take your time."</div> <bR> <div> "If I do that, we'll still be doing this next week," Daniel said then began to laugh into the pillow.</div> <bR> <div> "What's so funny?" Jack asked as he stroked his hands over as much of Daniel as he could reach.</div> <bR> <div> "Bottom boy," Daniel said, his laughter growing louder.  With each moment, his body relaxed more and the pleasure he was feeling increased.</div> <bR> <div> "What?" Jack said, smiling despite his confusion.</div> <bR> <div> "From arrow straight to bottom boy in less than twenty four hours," Daniel explained through his laughter.  "Who knew?"</div> <bR> <div> "You enjoying this, are ya?" Jack grinned.</div> <bR> <div> "I'll give you two days to quit that," Daniel muttered.  He pushed back against Jack experimentally and felt Jack move with him.  When he pulled his hips back forward, Jack withdrew his cock, then met him with a thrust as he rocked backward once again.  "Oh god," he groaned.</div> <bR> <div> "Good?"</div> <bR> <div> "Better than good."  Daniel rearranged his limbs slightly so he could circle and grind his hips into Jack's groin.</div> <bR> <div> "That's it," Jack said as he pulled Daniel's butt cheeks apart to watch his dick slide in and out of the tight hole, "you just have yourself a blast."</div> <bR> <div> "I can't believe how incredible this feels after hurting so bad at first."</div> <bR> <div> "You should feel it from this end," came Jack's moaned reply.  "Christ, you're tight."</div> <bR> <div> "Virgin ass, remember?"</div> <bR> <div> Jack snorted and grabbed a few pillows from the bed, slipping them carefully under Daniel's raised hips.  "Lay down."</div> <bR> <div> Daniel let himself sink onto the soft ledge created by the pile, Jack lying against his back.  The first thrust had him crying out in surprise.  "What the fuck?"</div> <bR> <div> "That's what it's supposed to feel like," Jack purred against his neck.</div> <bR> <div> "Do that again," Daniel panted.</div> <bR> <div> Jack rolled his hips with each thrust, his heavy, thick shaft gliding continuously over Daniel's prostate.  "You let me take care of everything from here on out," he breathed into Daniel's ear, licking around the edge playfully.  "Just relax and enjoy the ride."</div> <bR> <div> "I want you to make me come this way."  With a breathy grunt, he pushed his hips up to meet Jack's thrust.</div> <bR> <div> Jack merely growled, his hips working in an even rhythm that Daniel easily fell into.  It wasn't more than a few minutes before he felt Daniel reach for his cock.  "Work yourself for me, Daniel.  Jerk your cock.  Do it - let me feel you come while I'm buried in your ass."  Jack reached down between them and pushed his fingers against Daniel's perineum and that was all it took before he felt the clenching around his dick and heard Daniel shout into the sheets as his release overtook him.</div> <bR> <div> Jack pulled out slowly and peeled off the condom.  "Stay right there," he whispered, placing a hand in the small of Daniel's back.  With quick, rough strokes he brought himself to the brink of orgasm.  One look at Daniel's loosened hole was all it took to plunge him over ithe edge.  Warm stripes of come grazed across Daniel's butt cheek and thigh.  "Fuck!" Jack gasped as he drew each and every moment of pleasure from the climax.  "Ah, fuck Daniel."  He rubbed and slapped the head of his penis against the wet skin, sending nearly painful jolts of pleasure though him as the last of his orgasm faded away.  Completely spent and totally exhausted, he collapsed onto Daniel's back, his breath coming in ragged pants.</div> <bR> <div> "We're a mess and I came all over the pillows," Daniel muttered.</div> <bR> <div> "More in the closet," Jack managed to reply.</div> <bR> <div> "You need to move so I can get up."</div> <bR> <div> "Towels?" Jack asked as he rolled tiredly away from Daniel.</div> <bR> <div> "I'll get some," Daniel yawned as he dragged himself from the bed.</div> <bR> <div> Jack pushed the soiled pillows off the bed then watched as Daniel went into the bathroom, retrieved two towels and wet a wash cloth, then yanked the two spare pillows from the top shelf of the closet on his way back to bed.  He quickly washed the back of his thigh and butt cheek off before sitting on the bed and tenderly cleaning off the wet splotches on Jack's body.  He then dried the places where he'd washed and handed Jack a pillow.</div> <bR> <div> "I really hope you aren't intending to get up before noon," Jack mumbled as he dragged the blankets back onto the bed.</div> <bR> <div> "Hell no," Daniel replied as he slid into bed next to Jack.  "Do you snore?"</div> <bR> <div> "No," Jack said as he arranged himself comfortably with his bed mate.</div> <bR> <div> "That's good."</div> <bR> <div> "Do you?"</div> <bR> <div> Daniel snuggled down into the covers and threw an arm comfortably over Jack's waist.  "Like a buzz saw."</div> <bR> <div> "Great," Jack snarked as he placed his hand over Daniel's and fell immediately to sleep.</div> <bR> <div> ++++</div> <bR> <div> Daniel could smell coffee.  He wasn't sure why that would be so until he remembered he wasn't alone.  A lazy smile spread over his face as memories of the night before flooded back.  He could tell Jack had already been up and showered - the scent of the man's shampoo and soap still hung in the air.  Just then, Daniel's bladder demanded to be emptied and he knew trying to ignore it would be pointless.  He poured himself from bed and stumbled to the bathroom.  Jack was standing in front of the mirror shaving.  He gave Daniel a smile, his face covered with shaving foam.</div> <bR> <div> "Morning Sleeping Beauty."</div> <bR> <div> Daniel's reply was little more than a caveman-like grunt as he stepped up to the toilet to pee.  As the pressure in his bladder eased, he sighed and yawned, scratching idly at the light hair on his lower abdomen.</div> <bR> <div> Jack shook his head and went back to shaving.  Obviously the man was going to need some coffee and a little breakfast before he was sociable.</div> <bR> <div> Daniel finished his business, pushed in beside Jack to wash his hands, dried them quickly on a towel then made to leave - after placing a kiss on Jack's bare shoulder.  "No more till I've had coffee," he grumbled.</div> <bR> <div> Jack laughed and finished his shave then finished dressing.  When he walked out into the main room, Daniel was sitting on the couch in a pool of warm sunshine, drinking a cup of coffee.  He was also completely naked.  "I was thinking we could maybe catch a little brunch," Jack said.  "Fill the energy reserves."</div> <bR> <div> Daniel nodded slowly and continued to sip his coffee.  "I'll get ready in a minute."</div> <bR> <div> Jack came to sit beside him.  "How're you feeling this morning?"</div> <bR> <div> "In what way?" Daniel asked, still slightly groggy.</div> <bR> <div> "Physically," Jack hedged.</div> <bR> <div> "Ass hurts - but in a not-so-bad way."</div> <bR> <div> "And you?  How do you feel?"</div> <bR> <div> "Different," Daniel answered after pausing to think for a moment.</div> <bR> <div> "In a not-so-good way?  Or a not-so-bad way?"</div> <bR> <div> "Not so bad," Daniel nodded.  "But . . . different.  It kinda hits you, ya know.  An experience like this."</div> <bR> <div> "You okay?"</div> <bR> <div> "Yeah, I think so," Daniel answered.  "Need to shower, though.  I'll be out in a few."  He stood up and looked down at Jack.  "Thanks for making coffee.  I think I'll keep you around just for this."</div> <bR> <div> "That could be arranged," Jack smirked.</div> <bR> <div> He watched Daniel move into the bathroom and was glad when the man left the door open.  He hadn't known if Daniel would be comfortable with him this morning, but everything seemed to be fine and he began to hold out hope that this would go into the books as one of his top experiences with a client.</div> <bR> <div> The splashing of the shower water indicated Daniel's progress and in a very few minutes he emerged from the steamy bathroom, drying himself down quickly and rummaging around in his suitcase.  Jack watched as the other man tugged on a pair of snug, black boxer briefs, slipped a well-worn pair of 501s over his legs and yanked on an old t-shirt before slipping a zip front sweatshirt over his head.  He sat on the bed, yanked on a pair of socks and stuffed his feet into running shoes without having to untie the laces.  He stood, fastened his pants, grabbed his keys and looked at Jack.</div> <bR> <div> "Let's go."</div> <bR> <div> Jack shook his head and smiled.  "You move with purpose once you get some caffeine in you," Jack said, turning off the two-serving coffee pot before leaving.</div> <bR> <div> Daniel finished off the cup he'd poured before entering the bathroom and left the mug on the counter.  "Years of practice," he said as he grabbed the door sign and hung the "please make up this room" side of the placard on the door.  "Where are we going?"</div> <bR> <div> "Little place across the street, actually.  They serve a great Saturday breakfast."</div> <bR> <div> "I'm all for that," Daniel said and followed Jack to the elevator.</div> <bR> <div> ++++</div> <bR> <div> Jack lay quietly, arm propping up his head as he watched Daniel sleep.  He smiled as he reviewed the events of the day in his mind.  They'd eaten, taking time to enjoy their meal.  A walk along Fifth Avenue had followed as Daniel admired the eclectic architecture that was downtown Manhattan.  The day had been sunny and just cool enough to encourage a long walk - which they'd taken through Central Park and eventually, on a whim, to the museum.  They'd strolled through the exhibits, talking about the treasures displayed in the glass cases, and eventually ending up in the dinosaur display where they marveled at the size and awesome stature of the extinct beasts.</div> <bR> <div> "I always wanted to see one of these things alive," Daniel said, a playful smile on his face.  "When I was a little kid, I used to pretend I'd catch one of these," he said, motioning toward a triceratops, "and ride him around the neighborhood.  Just to scare the other kids."  He laughed self-consciously.</div> <bR> <div> "Why didn't you go into paleontology?" Jack asked as he looked closely at the skeleton beside him.</div> <bR> <div> "Human culture interested me more," Daniel said simply.  "Especially Egyptology."</div> <bR> <div> "You should have said something," Jack said.  "We could have gone to the . . ."</div> <bR> <div> "No," Daniel said, shaking his head.  "No, this has been . . . fun.  A lot of fun."  He took a step closer to Jack.  "Can we . . . go back now?  I, uh . . ."  He glanced down at the front of his pants.</div> <bR> <div> Jack followed the gaze and saw that there was less room in the front of Daniel's jeans than there had been earlier.</div> <bR> <div> "Need to do something about that?"</div> <bR> <div> "I'd like to," Daniel said quietly.  "I've been following you around all day, and I'd like to . . . get my hands on what I've been watching for the last . . ."  He glanced at his watch.  "Four hours."</div> <bR> <div> "Who am I to argue with a man in need?" Jack answered, motioning toward the exit.  "Lead on."</div> <bR> <div> They'd made their way quickly to the curb where they hailed a cab.  Once inside the freshly cleaned hotel room, Daniel had pounced.  No sign of the previous day's shyness or hesitancy was evident as Jack was thoroughly and completely ravished and debauched by a very aggressive and passionate partner.  They'd cleaned up quickly, dressed again, gone down to street level for a filling meal from a small Greek restaurant, then returned to their room where they'd joined once again.</div> <bR> <div> It was a little after ten o'clock and a full moon was shining bright and clear through the bedroom window, throwing broad swaths of light across Daniel's slumbering form.  The angle of the light illuminated the fine hair on his legs and stomach, making him look like he was rimmed in silver.  Jack laughed at himself - he was turning sappy in his old age.  He sobered immediately.  He was also in very dangerous territory with this oddly complicated scholar.</div> <bR> <div> He looked into the peaceful face, reaching out to softly touch the full lips, slightly parted in sleep, remembering what the soft taste had been like as Daniel had held their kiss through his last orgasm, sighing into his mouth as shuddering pleasure shook through him.</div> <bR> <div> Jack saw the blue eyes slide open and smiled.  "Hey."</div> <bR> <div> "Hey."  Daniel glanced over at the clock which was visible just over Jack's shoulder.  "You're thinking too hard," he whispered.</div> <bR> <div> "I shouldn't be thinking at all," Jack answered softly.  "It's bad for me."</div> <bR> <div> Daniel reached out and pulled Jack down into an embrace, covering his shoulders with the sheet.  "Then leave it till morning.  Sleep now."</div> <bR> <div> Jack let himself be held knowing that with this one simple act, Daniel had just broken through the last of his carefully built defenses.</div> <bR> <div> ++++</div> <bR> <div> Jack placed the last of his toiletries in his bag and checked quickly that he hadn't forgotten anything.  He had his keys, and personal belongings.  He double checked that he had all his clothes.  There was nothing left to do now but say goodbye and leave.</div> <bR> <div> He nodded.</div> <bR> <div> Yep, nothing left.</div> <bR> <div> He sighed deeply.  "Guess that's it."  He turned to give a broad smile to Daniel who was half sitting on the back of a chair.</div> <bR> <div> "Guess so," Daniel said quietly.  He was fussing with a loose thread on the leg of his pants.</div> <bR> <div> "You alright?" Jack asked as he gathered his things.</div> <bR> <div> Daniel shrugged.  "I suppose so."  His lips formed a small smile but there was no cheer in the clear, blue eyes.</div> <bR> <div> "You know . . ."</div> <bR> <div> "Don't," Daniel said with a shake of his head.  "This wasn't all about my hiring you.  It couldn't have been."</div> <bR> <div> "This is what I do, Daniel," Jack said.  This was getting uncomfortable - he didn't want to feel guilty about leaving - didn't want to feel like he was leaving something behind.</div> <bR> <div> "I know," Daniel said, not unkindly.  "I just . . . I'm not ready for it to be over yet."</div> <bR> <div> Jack wanted to tell him to get over it - he'd paid for seventy two hours and in exactly three minutes, that time would be up - but he couldn't.  He'd never had a problem with leaving before, but he sure as hell was having one now.</div> <bR> <div> Jack fiddled with the handle of his bag.  "Look, for what it's worth . . . this wasn't . . . <I>you</I> weren't . . . just another . . . job."  He shrugged a little.  "This wasn't work."</div> <bR> <div> Daniel licked his lips and nodded.  "I didn't expect this."</div> <bR> <div> "No," said Jack quietly.  "I didn't either."</div> <bR> <div> "Thank you," Daniel said.  He gave a pained look.  "I don't know what else to say."</div> <bR> <div> Jack came to stand in front of him.  "Then don't say anything."  He placed his hands on either side of Daniel's face and kissed him, deep and long, trying to memorize the feel and taste to keep with him.</div> <bR> <div> "You better go," Daniel said, his voice thick.  "Before we embarrass ourselves."</div> <bR> <div> "Yeah," Jack said.  He leaned in for one more brief kiss then backed away reluctantly.  Picking up his things, he let himself out of the room and walked quickly down the hall.  When he arrived at the elevators, he savagely punched the call button and waited impatiently for the car.  A few moments later, he heard the sound of running footsteps and turned to see Daniel run around the corner.</div> <bR> <div> "Daniel?"</div> <bR> <div> "Here."  The man held out a sheet of paper.</div> <bR> <div> Jack took it and looked at the list of information just as the elevator chimed and the door opened.</div> <bR> <div> "If you're ever in Chicago," Daniel said with a weak smile and a small wave as Jack stepped into the waiting car.</div> <bR> <div> Jack watched the man until the doors of the elevator slid shut and he was alone once again.</div> <bR> <div> ++++</div> <bR> <div> Daniel slammed the reference book shut and rubbed tiredly at his eyes.  "Abigail, I've had it for the night.  I'm going home."</div> <bR> <div> "I'll see you in the morning," came the distracted voice from behind him.</div> <bR> <div> "It's nearly eleven, you need to go home.  You have class in the morning."</div> <bR> <div> "Won't sleep till I finish this," said the young woman.  "Maybe another hour and I'll have it."</div> <bR> <div> "Alright," Daniel said as he slid out of his chair and to his feet.  "Don't yell at me when you fail your mid-terms.  I tried to get you out of here and home to bed."</div> <bR> <div> "Yeah, yeah."</div> <bR> <div> Daniel pulled his coat on and sighed.  It was over a year since he'd presented his findings in New York and he was still chasing questions asked by the archeology community.  They were valid questions, and ones he'd mostly had the answers to . . . but there were ones that truly taxed his research and his patience.  Such was the case this night.</div> <bR> <div> He stepped into the frigid night of the Chicago winter and pulled his collar up around his ears.  He toyed with the idea of heading to a local bar for a drink before heading home, but between the cold and his exhaustion, he determined that would not be the best course of action.  He'd gone a block in his walk when his cell phone rang.  He tugged it from within the layers of sweaters to look at the caller ID and nearly dropped the small device in the snow.</div> <bR> <div> "Hello?"</div> <bR> <div> "Daniel?" came a tentative, male voice.</div> <bR> <div> "Yes?  Jack, is that you?"</div> <bR> <div> "Where the HELL have you been?" asked the man on the other end of the phone.  "You gave me six phone numbers to try and you weren't at any of them.  Naturally, you'd be at the last one I called."</div> <bR> <div> Daniel laughed.  "I'm fine, thanks for asking."</div> <bR> <div> There was a muffled chuckle before Jack spoke again.  "Look, I'm gonna be passing through your way in two days.  I was wondering . . ."</div> <bR> <div> "Yes!  Yes, by all means.  Do you need a ride from the airport?  I can come and get you.  My car's not the greatest, but it runs.  I could always get you a cab to bring you in . . ."</div> <bR> <div> "Daniel?"</div> <bR> <div> "Or wait, you might not want to stay this far in.  Do you have plans?  Are you meeting people?"</div> <bR> <div> "Daniel."</div> <bR> <div> "What hotel are you staying at?  I could meet you there and maybe we could have dinner . . ."</div> <bR> <div> "Daniel!"</div> <bR> <div> "What?"</div> <bR> <div> "Will you shut up for two seconds?"</div> <bR> <div> "Oh," Daniel said, realizing what he'd done.  He laughed self-consciously.  "Sorry."</div> <bR> <div> "I was wondering," Jack said, taking a deep breath, "if you'd mind having company for a few days."</div> <bR> <div> Daniel leaned against a lamp post and closed his eyes, trying to quiet his racing heart.  "It'll be great to see you again."</div> <bR> <div> "Good.  Uh, is this e-mail address still good?"</div> <bR> <div> "The hotmail account?"</div> <bR> <div> "Yeah."</div> <bR> <div> "Yeah, that's still valid."</div> <bR> <div> "Okay.  I'll send you the flight information and we'll work out a plan from there."</div> <bR> <div> "I'll look for it.  Listen, how long can you stay?"</div> <bR> <div> "There've been a lot of things that have happened since we saw each other," Jack said quietly.  "I think maybe we should talk and then see where that takes us."</div> <bR> <div> "Is everything alright?" Daniel asked, concerned.  He decided he'd better keep walking before he froze in place.</div> <bR> <div> "Everything's fine.  I just think we need to understand each other a little bit better before we jump into something we'll both regret."</div> <bR> <div> "That's fine," Daniel said, trying to keep his voice calm.  "You're welcome to stay with me - for however long.  I don't have a very big place, and it's not in the best part of town, but it keeps the wind and snow out, ya know?"</div> <bR> <div> Jack smiled.  "Are you outside right now?"</div> <bR> <div> "Yeah, walking home."</div> <bR> <div> "Cold?"</div> <bR> <div> "More like nut-killing frigid," Daniel groused.</div> <bR> <div> "Okay, you get home and we'll talk in a few days.  Are you gonna be home anytime this week?"</div> <bR> <div> "Call me in the mornings before seven my time.  That's the best time to catch me there."</div> <bR> <div> "What about a weekend?"</div> <bR> <div> "I work pretty much seven days a week."</div> <bR> <div> Jack sighed.  "Alright, I'll call you day after tomorrow.  We'll figure out what we're doing."</div> <bR> <div> "Sounds great."</div> <bR> <div> "I'm looking forward to seeing you, Daniel."</div> <bR> <div> "Me too," Daniel said and this time he didn't try to hide the emotion.</div> <bR> <div> ++++</div> <bR> <div> "Dr. Jordan?"</div> <bR> <div> The old man looked up from his papers.  "Daniel, you're here early."</div> <bR> <div> "Yes, so it would seem."  Daniel walked into the cluttered office, hands shoved deeply into his pockets.</div> <bR> <div> "You've been doing some excellent work," beamed Jordan.  His face then grew serious.  "And you look like hell."</div> <bR> <div> Daniel laughed and looked down at the floor.  "I would imagine I do," he agreed.  "That's partially why I've come to see you."</div> <bR> <div> "Oh?"</div> <bR> <div> "I'd like to request some time off.  Maybe a week?"</div> <bR> <div> "That's unusual, coming from you.  Is there anything wrong?"</div> <bR> <div> "No, sir," Daniel said.  "I'm just . . . well, a friend of mine is coming into town and I thought that this would be a good reason to finally take a little break."</div> <bR> <div> Jordan pursed his lips and nodded his head.  "I would imagine that Steven and your new assistant can keep things running in your absence."</div> <bR> <div> "I'm sure they can," Daniel nodded.</div> <bR> <div> "Daniel, I have never had an associate work as hard or as diligently as you.  But all work and no play . . . even you need a break now and then young man.  I will inform the administration that I have given you a full week's leave with pay beginning, what, Monday?"</div> <bR> <div> "Yes, sir.  That's perfect."</div> <bR> <div> "Very good," Jordan said.  "Now, get out of here and let me work."</div> <bR> <div> "Thank you," Daniel smiled as he turned slowly to leave.</div> <bR> <div> ++++</div> <bR> <div> The cabin of the airliner was dark and hushed.  Jack hitched his coat a little closer around him as the temperature of the cabin began to drop as the plane flew into the approaching cold front.  He'd checked the weather report from Chicago before he'd left.  Snowing, windy, with highs in the low teens.  Just another balmy winter's day in Chi-town.</div> <bR> <div> The drone of the engines lulled Jack into a restful state and he allowed his mind to drift back over the events of the past year.</div> <bR> <div> The changes had started almost the moment he'd left Daniel's room.  When Daniel had handed him the list of contact information on that slip of paper, Jack had been at a loss for how to respond.  Should he stop the elevator and stay with Daniel?  Should he run far and fast, put the man from his mind and pick up his old life at full speed?  Would he give up everything he had become for this man - this client - who had been so willing to embrace something new?</div> <bR> <div> Jack had literally fled back to his apartment, closed and locked the doors and not come out for days.  The feelings inside him were still new enough to be contained, maybe even stopped.  If he expected to be able to carry on with his lifestyle, he could ill afford to have emotions running rampant through him.  Cool, unemotional, unbiased decision making was what needed to happen.  It's what he'd told himself every day for the next two months.  On the sixty-second day after his departure from Daniel's hotel room, Jack finally admitted to himself that he'd gone and fallen in love with a client.  It was the one rule someone in his line of work should never, ever break.</div> <bR> <div> He'd accepted work - gone out, done what he was paid to do and left.  Quickly.  No one seemed to notice that there was something different - something hollow and impersonal about him now.  After six months, he knew he was finished.</div> <bR> <div> He'd scheduled a meeting with the owner of the Starlight Agency.  They agreed to meet at one of the small cafés in Rockefeller Center.  As Jack had approached the table, he'd looked upon a man he'd known since he'd come to New York.  Well dressed, well mannered and intelligent, George Hammond was unlike any other "escort manager" in the business.  He treated his workers as associates; screened them carefully, watched over them, took care of them as best he could.  Jack had known him for close to twenty-five years and had never regretted a day of their working relationship.  More than this, George had proven himself a friend - and that gave Jack the courage to do what he was about to do.</div> <bR> <div> He sat down opposite his long-time friend.  "George."</div> <bR> <div> "Jack."  George knew there was something important to be discussed.  He pursed his lips and nodded his had.  "So you'll be leaving, then?"</div> <bR> <div> Jack was momentarily taken aback.  "How'd you know?"</div> <bR> <div> "When you've been in this game as long as I have, you learn to tell the signs."  He motioned to the waitress.  "I'll assume you'll be careful - take things slowly."</div> <bR> <div> "Yeah.  I don't want to screw this up."</div> <bR> <div> The young waitress came to their table.  "Hello Mr. Hammond.  Have you decided?"</div> <bR> <div> "Hello Diane.  We'll have the seared scallops in saffron cream sauce and asparagus tips with angel hair.  And bring us the bowl of salad, light dressing, extra olives."</div> <bR> <div> "Would you like a wine with your meal?" she asked, taking the menus from the table.</div> <bR> <div> Hammond looked at Jack who merely shook his head.  "I think water will be fine, hun."</div> <bR> <div> "I'll be back with your bread and soup," she said before hurrying off to place their order.</div> <bR> <div> "How are you fixed for money, son?" George asked, placing the linen napkin across his lap.</div> <bR> <div> "That's all fine," Jack said with a smile.  "I've invested, have some property.  I'll be able to live comfortably."</div> <bR> <div> "Your portfolio up to date?"</div> <bR> <div> "George, I learned from the best," Jack laughed.</div> <bR> <div> Hammond smiled and sat back in his chair.  "Won't be the same without you."</div> <bR> <div> "No," Jack said quietly.  "I'll miss seeing you."</div> <bR> <div> "Does that mean you're moving out of the area?"</div> <bR> <div> "I'm not sure.  He lives in Chicago."  Jack shrugged.  "He may not even remember me."</div> <bR> <div> "Somehow I doubt that."  George fidgeted slightly with the silverware on the table before him.  "Is it that young professor - the one who was through here about six months ago?"</div> <bR> <div> Jack acknowledged George's insight with a nod.</div> <bR> <div> "I thought so," George nodded as he picked a small speck of lint from the lapel of his suit jacket.  "You haven't worked much since."</div> <bR> <div> "The heart's pretty much gone out of my game," Jack said softly.  "I can't seem to take the same interest I used to."</div> <bR> <div> George gave Jack a small, understanding smile.  "It's difficult when the right one comes along - especially when they're on the other end of a business transaction."  Silence spread out between them as each contemplated this latest turn of events.  "What happens if it doesn't work out?"</div> <bR> <div> Jack shook his head slowly.  "I don't know.  I can't keep doing this forever."</div> <bR> <div> "You can always come into the business with me.  I started this company when I was about your age.  I'll need to turn the controls over to someone I trust when it's time for me to hang it up."</div> <bR> <div> "No," Jack declined with a sigh.  "I wouldn't have the patience or desire to run the agency."</div> <bR> <div> The waitress came and placed the first two courses of the meal on the table, stopping the conversation.  Once she was gone, George continued.  "It's not just for me - but the associates."</div> <bR> <div> "I can't run the stable," Jack said.  "Sam's got a good head on her shoulders; she'd be more than capable of running things.  The kids respect her."</div> <bR> <div> "Sam's got her cap pretty well set for you," George reminded him.  "When you leave, I'm pretty sure she will as well."</div> <bR> <div> "We've been down this road before," Jack said.  Tension crept into his voice.  "She knows it's not going to happen."</div> <bR> <div> "I don't think she does know that."</div> <bR> <div> "Then she needs to wake up and smell the coffee."  Jack bit into a well buttered piece of bread.</div> <bR> <div> Lunch continued, quietly, pleasantly.  The conversation was like a debriefing with the current status of the workers being discussed.  Jack realized now that he wasn't just quitting the business . . . he was saying goodbye.  When the meal was finished and the check paid, he shook hands with George in front of the large, golden statue in the center of the plaza then turned to leave.  Each step had weighed on his heart as he left his friend and mentor of so many years behind to walk toward an uncertain future.</div> <bR> <div> Jack was brought back to the present by the call button being pushed by the woman sitting next to him.  He blinked and looked around then checked his watch.  He'd been so lost in thought and remembrance that almost the entire flight has passed by unnoticed.  The stewardess walked toward him and offered Jack a friendly smile before leaning down to listen to the other passenger's whispered request.  Before she left on her errand, she gave Jack a flirty wink and strolled back toward the galley, hips swaying suggestively.</div> <bR> <div> <I>I knew I wouldn't be faithful</I>.  Jack remembered that single portion of conversation with Daniel as clearly as if he'd just uttered the words.  Was this all he was holding out for - one more sexual encounter he might miss out on were he to become 'unavailable'?  He tried to think back to all the people he'd had sex with - was the chance of 'just one more' all that had kept him from making that commitment to his one time fiancé?  He was shocked at the shallowness - the selfishness - of his past decision.  He'd let the one person he'd loved more than anything else at that time in his life slip through his fingers because he might miss a fuck with someone pretty?  He chuckled humorlessly to himself.  <I>Epiphany at thirty thousand feet - it could be the next major blockbuster</I>, he thought morosely.  He realized he'd been a complete idiot back then.</div> <bR> <div> The stewardess returned and placed a small glass of what looked to be ginger ale in the shaking hand of the woman sitting next to Jack.  She raised her eyes to his.  "Can I get you anything, sir?"  It was obviously an offer of much more than a glass of something to drink.</div> <bR> <div> "No," Jack said with a shake of his head.  "I'm fine, thanks."</div> <bR> <div> "Are you sure?  I can bring you a cocktail."</div> <bR> <div> "Positive.  Thanks."  Jack turned his attention back to the window and the swirling snowstorm they were flying into.  In the reflection in the glass, he saw the look of disappointment on the flight attendant's face as she walked back to her place at the rear of the cabin.  For once in his life, Jack didn't care that he'd let an opportunity slip away.</div> <bR> <div> ++++</div> <bR> <div> Daniel waited impatiently in the concourse, watching the video monitors announce the arrivals and departures of the flights.  Jack's flight had supposedly been on time, but due to the weather, they were now running late.  When at last he saw the display clicking over to "arriving," he checked the gate number and hurried off.</div> <bR> <div> The people seemed to tumble off the plane and Daniel could only assume they'd hit some turbulence before they landed.  Most looked slightly shaken, a few looked a little sick.  As he searched the crowd for the tall, lean figure of Jack O'Neill, he wondered if the man would have changed much in the year since he'd seen him last.  He smiled to himself - he knew he'd changed.  Shorter hair, broader shoulders, thicker thighs, arms and chest . . . Daniel had begun a weight training routine to deal with the pressures of his new role as Dr. Jordan's lead assistant - and the results were quite obvious.  He wondered if Jack would like the changes.</div> <bR> <div> At last Daniel spotted the crown of silver hair - more pronounced now than it had been a year ago - but the face was the same as he remembered.  A heavy thump of his heart jolted him as Jack's eyes found him in the crowd.  A smile spread over the older man's face that nearly sent Daniel into a spin.  Jack waved, then motioned to the slow moving elderly couple in front of him and gave a 'what can ya do' roll of his shoulders.</div> <bR> <div> Daniel laughed and waited until Jack had cleared the gate and made it into the main boarding area before walking toward him.  They stopped and looked at each other for a moment, each a little unsure of how they should greet the other.  Finally Jack opened his arms and Daniel stepped into the embrace, each man hugging hard.</div> <bR> <div> "It's good to see you again, Jack," Daniel smiled.</div> <bR> <div> "You too," Jack said.  He pulled back and gave Daniel's shoulders a squeeze.  "Someone's been hitting the gym."</div> <bR> <div> "Had to find a way to work off the stress of work - decided to take it out on some weights."</div> <bR> <div> "I'm impressed," Jack said and he meant it.</div> <bR> <div> "Let's get your bags," Daniel said.  "We're going to have to fight for a taxi in this weather.  Hope you brought your body armor."</div> <bR> <div> Jack laughed.  "What, are you kidding?  I'm from New York."</div> <bR> <div> The two men chatted on their way through the airport, catching up on a few recent events - amount of time at work, weather, gas prices . . . inconsequential things just to hear the other talk.  Daniel was surprised how much he'd missed Jack's voice.  Now that he was here, he just wanted to sit and listen to the low, melodic tones.</div> <bR> <div> Jack had come prepared for the weather.  He carried his thick, winter coat over his arm and had several sweaters and warm shirts in his carry-on bag.  Once the rest of the baggage had been collected, Jack pulled Daniel over to a bank of chairs where he removed one of the sweaters from his duffle bag and pulled it over his head before slipping on his coat and gloves.</div> <bR> <div> Daniel stacked and fastened the bags together, thankful that Jack had luggage that was made just for that purpose.  "I remember the old days of having to shlep bags through the airport.  Thank God they come with wheels these days," Jack said as he took command of the neat little rolling bundle that was his luggage.</div> <bR> <div> "Luggage used to come without wheels?" Daniel asked, wide-eyed.  When Jack shot him a look, he winked and led the way outside.  "Gotcha."  He trotted to the curb and hailed the nearest cab.  They got the bags stowed then piled into the back seat, shaking snow from their hair.  Daniel gave the street address to his apartment and the cab crawled off into the snowy streets.</div> <bR> <div> "Really coming down out there," Jack commented as he looked around at the cars, some completely covered in a layer of fluffy white.</div> <bR> <div> "Scary part is this has just started.  Roads are going to be nearly impassable by tomorrow."</div> <bR> <div> "Gotta love these mid-western winters," Jack smiled.</div> <bR> <div> "That's right, you grew up in this," Daniel responded.</div> <bR> <div> "Give me a pair of ice skates and I'll feel right at home," Jack grinned.</div> <bR> <div> When Daniel returned his smile, Jack's heart tripled its pace and he felt a little light headed.  He reached out to touch the cold-blushed face before him but stopped short, remembering in time where he was.  "It's good to be here . . . Doctor Jackson."</div> <bR> <div> Daniel's smile merely grew and neither man really noticed the remainder of the treacherous cab ride.</div> <bR> <div> ++++</div> <bR> <div> Daniel's apartment was in a small, modest brownstone not far from the Oriental Institute.  They climbed the two flights of stairs quickly, each wanting to get out of the cold as soon as possible.  Daniel flicked on the lights and ushered Jack into his home.  Jack looked around him, the smell of books and paper and coffee heavy in the air.</div> <bR> <div> "I set the timer for a fresh pot before I left.  I hoped you wouldn't be too late.  Last thing I needed to do was cause a fire."</div> <bR> <div> Jack smiled and set his bags down as Daniel unwrapped himself from his layers of clothing.  He took Jack's coat and hung it carefully inside the small closet then grabbed up the bags and carried them down the short hallway to the right.  He clicked on the lights as he went.  "Bathroom's just off the bedroom," he said, nodding to a white door.  He put the small suitcase down inside the room then flicked on the light.  Jack stepped up beside him and looked around.  A queen size bed occupied the center of the room, with a chest of drawers just inside the door, and a long closet along the interior wall.  Floor to ceiling windows made up the other wall, and a small computer desk took up the remaining wall space.</div> <bR> <div> Daniel set the suitcases on the bed.  "I made some room in the closet for you to hang up your clothes, and if you want, there's room in the top drawer for your socks and stuff.  You can put your things in the bathroom - I made some space in there as well."  He turned, hands out to his side.  "Basically, just make yourself at home."</div> <bR> <div> Jack looked around at the equally cluttered bedroom and smiled.  He didn't know one human being could own as many books and magazines as Daniel did.  It gave the apartment a close, warm feeling and he liked it here immediately.  "This is a great place."</div> <bR> <div> "Yes, well, the cockroaches don't mind my being here on a long-term basis, so I guess it's okay," Daniel chuckled.  "You hungry?"</div> <bR> <div> "Not now," Jack answered and both men laughed.</div> <bR> <div> "There's a great pizza place right down the street that delivers," Daniel continued as he walked back down the hall.  "I haven't had a chance to eat today, so I'm gonna give them a call.  You have a preference?"</div> <bR> <div> "No onions," Jack said as he began to unpack.</div> <bR> <div> "Right."</div> <bR> <div> Jack listened as Daniel made the phone call, then the ceramic sounds of coffee mugs being pulled from the cupboard.  He unpacked quickly, setting his luggage far inside the closet before joining Daniel in the living room.  A steaming mug of dark coffee sat waiting for him on the low table in front of the couch.  Daniel was tucked into a ragged, but comfortable looking, lazy-boy.  Jack flopped down onto the couch and sighed tiredly.  "I shouldn't be tired, all I've done today is sit."</div> <bR> <div> "Travel takes it out of you," Daniel said as he sipped appreciatively at his drink.  "Food will be here in about half an hour.  Did you want to take a shower or anything first?"</div> <bR> <div> "Nah, I'm good," Jack said as he took a long drink of coffee.  "So what had you so busy today that you didn't get a chance to eat?"</div> <bR> <div> "What, are you kidding?" Daniel asked, motioning around him.  "I was cleaning."</div> <bR> <div> Jack laughed and scanned the room.  From the sheer volume of books alone, he imagined the place could get very untidy very quickly.  "You said you got some time off work?"</div> <bR> <div> "Doctor Jordan's given me a week off.  Anything you'd like to do while you're here?  Anywhere you'd like to visit?"</div> <bR> <div> "I came here to see you, Daniel," Jack said with a lopsided grin.  "You don't have to be a tour guide."</div> <bR> <div> "But you aren't just going to want to stay penned up in here . . ."  He let the sentence drop when he saw the slow grin spreading over Jack's face.  "Or maybe you will."  He laughed self-consciously.</div> <bR> <div> "Listen," Jack said, "it's been a year and while it would be heaven to wake up in bed with you every morning, I'm good to just sleep here on the couch . . ."</div> <bR> <div> "Jack . . ."</div> <bR> <div> "No," Jack continued, "really.  I don't want to put that sort of pressure into this week if you aren't comfortable about it."</div> <bR> <div> "I have no intentions of having you come all this way just to sleep on the couch," Daniel persisted.</div> <bR> <div> "I'm just sayin' . . . it's been a year.  You may not want . . ."</div> <bR> <div> "I do want," Daniel cut in.  "But if it's not something you . . ."</div> <bR> <div> "No, it's not that . . ."</div> <bR> <div> "Because I can just as easily sleep out here and you . . ."</div> <bR> <div> "Daniel."</div> <bR> <div> "Jack?"</div> <bR> <div> The two men looked at each other for a moment.  "Will you come over here, please.  I can't talk to you sitting way over there."</div> <bR> <div> Daniel looked at his chair and the couch.  "I'm three feet away."</div> <bR> <div> "Daniel," Jack sighed in exasperation.</div> <bR> <div> With a shake of his head, Daniel moved over to sit beside Jack on the couch.  "I don't understand what the difference is in a couple feet.  I can hear you just the same over there as I can <I>mmmmpphhh</I>."</div> <bR> <div> Jack's mouth covered Daniel's in a wet, slow kiss that sent the younger man back into the cushions.  Jack licked lightly at Daniel's bottom lip and received an immediate invitation to press his advantage further.  The combined taste of coffee and 'Daniel' was intoxicating and Jack luxuriated in the feeling of the warm, strong body beside his; the tentative touch of Daniel's hands; and the feeling of intimacy produced by being so close to the scholar that he could feel Daniel's heartbeat against his chest.  Finally pulling back from the kiss, Jack licked his lips as if savoring a delicate treat.  "I couldn't do that with you way over there."</div> <bR> <div> "I can see where I was interfering with the logistics of your plan," Daniel nodded.  "How silly of me."  He pulled Jack back in for another kiss, entwining his arms and legs with Jack's as they maneuvered around on the couch so both were stretched out comfortably along its length.  "Haven't necked on a couch in awhile," Daniel whispered against Jack's throat.  "I forgot how fun this could be."  He licked the spot where he could see Jack's pulse and got a more than satisfactory shiver in response.  Before Jack realized what was happening, Daniel had his mouth fastened over the spot and was sucking hard.</div> <bR> <div> Jack ground his groin against Daniel's thigh as the man marked him, his breath coming in short, hot puffs.  He heard and felt the suction release as Daniel licked and kissed the spot better.  "You just gave me a hickey," Jack snickered against Daniel's shoulder.</div> <bR> <div> "Couldn't help myself," Daniel said as he rolled his head to the side in invitation.</div> <bR> <div> Jack pulled Daniel's shirt collar away, biting and nipping his way along the side of Daniel's throat.  Tongue swirling over the soft skin, Jack encouraged Daniel's writhing by pushing his thigh hard into the warm crotch beneath him while sliding a hand around to grab hold of a firm buttock.  With a long sigh, he brought the warm skin beneath his lips into his mouth and sucked hard.  Daniel arched up and into Jack's body, groaning at the sensation of being branded.</div> <bR> <div> Jack had just finished licking and kissing away the pain of the bite mark when the doorbell rang loud and harsh in the room.</div> <bR> <div> "Dammit," Daniel hissed as Jack moved to let him get up and go to the door.</div> <bR> <div> "Hey, you were the one who said you were hungry," Jack said.</div> <bR> <div> "I was trying to be polite."  Daniel grabbed his wallet from the table and fished around for the money to pay for the pizza.  He paid the man and gave him a generous trip for having to come out in the weather, then closed the door and carried the pizza to the table.  "I'll go get some plates.  You want a beer?"</div> <bR> <div> "Yeah, if you've got one."</div> <bR> <div> Daniel brought in plates, paper napkins and two beers, retook his seat on the couch and flipped open the box.  He and Jack heaped the heavy, gooey slices of pizza onto their plates and ate quickly.</div> <bR> <div> "There is no pizza in the world like pizza in Chicago," Jack said as he folded a slice in half and took a large bite.</div> <bR> <div> "I would die without this," Daniel agreed.  He grabbed the tv remote, hitting the power button and surfing quickly to a local sports network.  The sounds of a hockey game filled the room.</div> <bR> <div> Jack reached over and tugged on Daniel's thigh, indicating he wanted him to sit closer.  Daniel smiled and slid over so close was practically sitting on top of him.  Jack settled into the corner of the couch, Daniel leaning fully into his side, put his socked feet up on the table and settled back to eat pizza and watch the game.</div> <bR> <div> When the pizza was done and it was obvious there would be no victory for the home team, Daniel turned off the television and stood up.  "Come on," he said simply.  He held out his hand for Jack and helped pull him to his feet.  "No one's sleeping on the couch tonight.  Or any other night, for that matter."</div> <bR> <div> ++++</div> <bR> <div> Jack opened his eyes slowly, letting the sensations of the morning flood through him.  The first thing he noticed was the brightness - and the reason for it.  Chicago was covered under a thick blanket of white, and it was still snowing incredibly hard outside.  The windows that banked one side of Daniel's room let the snowy light into the room like a wave.  He watched the swirling snow for a few minutes before his body began speaking to him of the raucous night before.  His ass hurt, his legs hurt, his knees hurt, his back hurt . . . and he savored every ache.</div> <bR> <div> Sex the night before with Daniel had been pyroclastic in its intensity.  It had been a very long time since anyone had taken him the way Daniel had . . . hard, desperate, wanton, and so incredibly needy.  Jack had given back as good as he'd gotten, and he knew that when Daniel woke up this morning, he'd be feeling a little worse for wear himself - but it was such a good kind of bad.</div> <bR> <div> Jack reached back and stroked his fingers over his hole, feeling it pucker and twitch under his touch.  During one particular session of rimming, he'd wondered if Daniel had been trying to suck his brains out through his ass . . . and then he wondered if he had a mark on his ass to match the one on his throat.  The thought made him chuckle.  He experimentally slid a finger inside himself, hissing as the sensitive skin complained slightly.  His dick certainly didn't mind the feeling, however.</div> <bR> <div> When he looked back up at Daniel, he saw sleepy blue eyes watching him intently.</div> <bR> <div> "Don't stop on my account," Daniel whispered as he leaned in to lick and bite at Jack's nipple.</div> <bR> <div> Jack watched as Daniel's cock swelled magnificently before him and the long fingers of Daniel's hand wrapped firmly around the shaft.</div> <bR> <div> "Spin around so I can watch," Daniel said, his voice still sleepy and thick.  He made a small circle with his fingers, motioning for Jack to turn around.</div> <bR> <div> With little grunts and groans of discomfort, Jack turned around so his head rested on the inside of Daniel's thigh.  He bent and lifted his outer leg up so Daniel had a clear view from ass to groin.</div> <bR> <div> "Point that thing down this way," Jack said, his own voice still froggy from the night before.</div> <bR> <div> Daniel pushed at the base of his cock so Jack could take the head into his mouth and suckle.  Daniel reached for the lube on the headboard, spread some on his fingers, then on Jack's, and they both took turns shoving them gently into Jack's hole.  After several minutes, Daniel stilled Jack's hand, moving it toward the ruddy, thick erection.  "Let me do this," he said, applying more lube to his fingers.</div> <bR> <div> "Take it easy on me," Jack said, slowly stroking Daniel's dick, watching the foreskin slide wetly back and forth over the plump head.</div> <bR> <div> "I will," Daniel assured him and slowly eased two fingers deep inside.  Jack clenched at the invasion then relaxed.  Daniel wouldn't hurt him - he knew that.  Daniel probed gently until he found his target and got an affirmative grunt from Jack.  He closed his eyes and lay back, spreading his legs farther apart.  He slid his free hand underneath his as and began teasing his own hole.</div> <bR> <div> "Love to get a video of this," Jack laughed as he jerked not only Daniel's cock but his own.  He rolled Daniel slightly so he could watch the man plunge one finger slowly in and out of the tight sphincter.</div> <bR> <div> "I can arrange that," Daniel said, a little breathlessly.</div> <bR> <div> Jack let go of himself long enough to snag the lube and apply some to Daniel's finger before going back to stroking and sucking.  The decreased friction allowed Daniel to relax further into his actions and Jack knew it wouldn't be long for either of them before they shot.  The sounds Daniel was making were the most wonderful thing Jack had ever heard and he swore he would be able to come to a tape of just that alone.  He was doing his own fair share of moaning and groaning as his gland was firmly rubbed by Daniel's fingers.</div> <bR> <div> "Aww, shit.... Daniel," he warned.</div> <bR> <div> "Yeah, me too," came the panted reply.  He hitched down a bit, grabbed Jack's dick and put it in his mouth, sucking roughly on the head.</div> <bR> <div> Jack's response was immediate and gut wrenching.  He thrust into the warm, welcoming mouth a few times before his balls drew up and he pumped his orgasm into Daniel's mouth.  As Jack came, so did Daniel, both men greedily drinking the other one down.</div> <bR> <div> They fell apart, sweating and breathing heavily.  Daniel's fingers were still ensconced in Jack's ass and he gave a little wiggle of his fingertips against the gland, causing Jack to buck and swear.  He laughed and did it again, eliciting the same reaction.</div> <bR> <div> "Dammit Daniel, quit that," Jack half-groused.</div> <bR> <div> "Gonna keep my fingers right there, go back to sleep.  Wake up every now and then and give you a little goose."  He pushed at the bump inside once again.</div> <bR> <div> "Aww!  Daniel!"  Jack writhed slightly but didn't try to disengage Daniel's fingers from his body.</div> <bR> <div> "Wanna be inside you all the time," Daniel said behind a wide yawn.  He rolled to his side and pillowed his head on Jack's leg before falling back to sleep.  </div> <bR> <div> Jack smiled when, a few minutes later, the fingers slid from his body and Daniel flopped back over onto his back.  Jack rolled gingerly from the bed, his hands going to rub his lower back which was stiff and tight.  A glance back showed Daniel, sleeping, nestled into the middle of the sheets and blankets.  Quickly picking up the condoms that hadn't quite made it into the waste basket, Jack made his way to the bathroom.  He peed, washed up quickly and brushed his teeth.  When he came back into the bedroom, Daniel had managed to cocoon himself into a wad of sheets and was currently snoring happily in the center of the bed.  Knowing he would fight a losing battle by trying to pry some of the covers away from the sleeping man, Jack tossed the comforter over the lump of man and linen, grabbed a pair of sweats and a thick shirt and headed out to the kitchen for something to eat.</div> <bR> <div> He glanced through Daniel's refrigerator, found a roast Daniel had talked about cooking and set it out, then searched out the potatoes and carrots.  He scrubbed the vegetables and put them in a slow cooker, along with the roast, some peeled cloves of garlic, fresh thyme and a little red wine.  He turned the cooker on, started some coffee and stuck his head back in the fridge.  The roast wouldn't be ready until later that evening and he was ravenous.  He pulled together the makings for an cheese and mushroom omelette and was just whisking the eggs when a warm body slid up behind him.  "It's too early.  Come back to bed."</div> <bR> <div> Jack's stomach answered for him and both men chuckled.  "You want breakfast?"</div> <bR> <div> "Sure.  I'm gonna go hit the shower first."  Daniel pulled down a mug, slipped it quickly under the stream of brewing coffee, then replaced the pot when his cup was full.</div> <bR> <div> "Coffee slut."</div> <bR> <div> "Among other things," he yawned, patting Jack gently on the rump.  "We must have gotten a foot of snow over night."</div> <bR> <div> "Looks like we won't be going anywhere today after all," Jack said.</div> <bR> <div> "Yeah.  That's a damn shame," Daniel said with a wink.  "Be out in a few."</div> <bR> <div> The bread was toasted and buttered, concord grape jelly was out and waiting on the table, the omelettes had been turned out onto the plates along with some fresh melon and the coffee was poured and waiting.  Daniel walked into the kitchen just as Jack was putting away the last of the dirty dishes.  He put the towel he was using to towel dry his hair around his shoulders and looked over the sight.</div> <bR> <div> "This is what I call service."</div> <bR> <div> Jack tossed the dishtowel onto the counter and pulled a chair out for Daniel.  I saved you a seat," he smiled.</div> <bR> <div> Daniel draped the towel over the back of the chair, then leaned in to kiss Jack.  He pulled back after a few playful, nibbling kisses then sat down.  "Mind if I keep you around for a bit?"</div> <bR> <div> "I was hoping you would," Jack said, only half joking.</div> <bR> <div> The two men ate breakfast quietly, concentrating on the food.  Daniel made appreciative noises as he bit into the fluffy omelette before reaching for his fresh cup of coffee.  Within minutes the food was consumed and both men looked at each other and chuckled.</div> <bR> <div> "Guess we were hungrier than we thought," Jack said.  "You want some more?  There are eggs left."</div> <bR> <div> "No, I don't like to eat too much for breakfast.  This was good.  I will have some more toast, though.  You want some?"</div> <bR> <div> Jack shook his head.  "No, I think I'll top off with some more coffee.  What is this stuff - it's better than anything I get."</div> <bR> <div> "My one indulgence," Daniel said.  "I get it from a little shop in Seattle.  Those people definitely know their coffees."</div> <bR> <div> "I guess," Jack said as he drained his mug.  "You get the paper?"</div> <bR> <div> "Yeah, should be outside the door."</div> <bR> <div> Jack walked through the archway of the kitchen and into the small entryway.  He opened the door and, sure enough, the Saturday paper was waiting for him.  He picked it up and began looking through the sections.  He sat down at the kitchen table once again and put the paper where they both could grab it, then snagged the financial section for himself.</div> <bR> <div> Daniel came back with two more pieces of toast, grabbed the international section and sat down to read.  A few minutes later, he put his foot up into Jack's lap, and a few minutes after that his other one joined the first.  Jack hardly batted an eye and began stroking the top of one foot absently.  Daniel smiled and went back to reading.</div> <bR> <div> ++++</div> <bR> <div> Daniel shoved the outside door aside as hard as he could, creating a pile of snow behind it.  He grabbed the shovel that was in the breeze way and quickly began making a path to the curb.  Jack was behind him with a second shovel, widening the path.  "So the weather said we're supposed to get how much more?"</div> <bR> <div> Daniel sniffed and shook his head.  "They aren't sure.  Just that it's supposed to snow like this for another three days."  He stood up and looked at the rounded lumps in the road that used to be a line of colorful cars.  "We're gonna get buried."</div> <bR> <div> Together they cleared the sidewalk in front of the building, replaced the shovels then began shuffling through the shin-deep snow toward the corner grocery market.  Jack smiled as he turned his face to up into the falling flakes.  "Used to snow back home like this when I was a kid.  We'd go out and build forts around the ice rink, then have wars.  It was great."</div> <bR> <div> "Have you gone back?" Daniel asked, kicking the snow with every step.</div> <bR> <div> "I own some property up there, got a cabin by a lake.  Needs a lot of work.  I try and make it up at least twice a year for a couple weeks."</div> <bR> <div> "Sounds nice," Daniel nodded.</div> <bR> <div> "I'd like you to see it," Jack said quietly.</div> <bR> <div> Daniel turned to him.  "I'd like that, too."</div> <bR> <div> The came to the corner store, kicked the snow from their booted feet and walked inside.  An old man shouted from the back, "Daniel!"</div> <bR> <div> "Hello Mr. Capelli," Daniel answered, shaking the snow from his jacket.  "Some weather we've got going."</div> <bR> <div> "You don't like snow?" the store owner asked, bringing something wrapped carefully to the counter with him.</div> <bR> <div> "Oh, I do," Daniel said.  "But smaller doses would be nice."  He motioned to Jack.  "I'd like you to meet Jack O'Neill.  He's from New York."</div> <bR> <div> "Picked the perfect time to come for a visit, huh?" Mr. Capelli laughed as he shook Jack's hand.</div> <bR> <div> "I don't mind this at all," Jack said.</div> <bR> <div> "Jack's from Minnesota originally," Daniel explained as he grabbed a basket to begin his shopping.</div> <bR> <div> "Ah, so you know from winters then," Capelli nodded.</div> <bR> <div> "We do get them up there," Jack answered.</div> <bR> <div> "Daniel, the missus sent you along a little something for the next time I saw ya."</div> <bR> <div> Daniel's eyes went wide.  "Focaccia?"</div> <bR> <div> "Just made it this morning."  Capelli patted the parcel proudly.  "Gave you the two best loaves."</div> <bR> <div> Daniel took the package and carefully set it in the basket.  "You tell Mrs. Capelli that she is a goddess."</div> <bR> <div> The old man laughed heartily.  "No wonder she likes you, what with the sweet talkin' and the big blue eyes."</div> <bR> <div> "She doesn't deserve you," Daniel threw back.  "She's a queen, I tell you."</div> <bR> <div> "Ehhhh," Capelli snarled and waved his hand in dismissal.  "Oh, I got you those olives you like.  Just got the shipment today.  Here, you come with me, I'll show you what you need."</div> <bR> <div> Daniel turned and winked at Jack.  "He does this all the time.  I walk in here for bread and I leave with two arms full of groceries."</div> <bR> <div> "Nice racket," Jack murmured.</div> <bR> <div> "Nah, he makes sure I eat something close to healthy," Daniel said and wheeled the small cart to the far end of the market.</div> <bR> <div> ++++</div> <bR> <div> Jack stumbled through the door carrying the last of the groceries with him.  The wind had kicked up and there was a full-scale blizzard getting ready to hit Chicago.  He was thankful he and Daniel had gone out for food because with the weather, there was no way they were leaving again any time soon.</div> <bR> <div> Jack carried the sacks from the hall into the apartment, blessing Daniel's foresight at having them double bagged.</div> <bR> <div> "I won't need to shop for a month," Daniel said as he quickly put things away.</div> <bR> <div> "If that old man had packed these bags any fuller, they would have exploded."  Jack gathered up their outerwear and set it out on chairs to dry.  "Man, it's cold outside."</div> <bR> <div> "The Windy City's gonna live up to its name today.  Turn on the tv see what the weather forecast is," Daniel said from the freezer.</div> <bR> <div> Jack found the remote and powered on the television.</div> <bR> <div> ". . . with record lows expected in the minus tens to twenties in the outlying areas, and by the lakeshore we'll see temps dip down to around zero to five below.  Again, this is a huge storm pushing our way, all that wet Pacific air flowing across the plains and then stalling over the Great Lakes.  Of course, that lake effect snow always makes things worse, and by the time Monday rolls around, we're going to be looking at some extreme arctic conditions as that cold front continues to slide south out of central Canada, mix with what will be two fronts carrying lots of moisture, and we'll be set to see record snowfalls that will be measured in feet, not just inches."</div> <bR> <div> Daniel gave a chuff of laughter.</div> <bR> <div> "What's so funny?" Jack asked, walking into the kitchen to help put away the food.</div> <bR> <div> "I don't have to try and drive in this shit," Daniel grinned.  "And," he held up a finger, "I just got the fireplace fixed and ready for the cold, so even if we lose power, we'll still be able to stay nice and cozy warm."</div> <bR> <div> "We could always generate heat by friction," Jack said as he began stacking cans in the cupboard.</div> <bR> <div> "Is that a proposition?"</div> <bR> <div> "Well . . . ye-ah.  Like you even have to ask?"</div> <bR> <div> "Have I mentioned I'm really, really glad you're here?" Daniel asked, grabbing Jack by the arm and dragging him along behind him.</div> <bR> <div> "What about the food?"</div> <bR> <div> "All the perishables are put away - the rest can wait.  I can't."</div> <bR> <div> "We did nothing for twelve hours last night but have sex.  You mean to tell me you can't wait five minutes while I put away the tuna helper?"</div> <bR> <div> "That's exactly what I mean.  Now . . . shut up and drop your pants."</div> <bR> <div> ++++</div> <bR> <div> Jack lay against the pile of pillows, Daniel pulled close to his chest.  One hand rubbed small patterns on the strong forearm around his waist and the other carded fingers through the soft hair at the back of Daniel's skull.  Body thrumming with satisfaction, Jack was content to just lie there and let the minutes slip away as his heart soared high above the storm that raged outside the window.</div> <bR> <div> "Jack?"</div> <bR> <div> "Mmm?"</div> <bR> <div> "I'm going to Egypt in three weeks on what could be a year-long dig.  I'll only be back in the States for a few weeks every couple months."  Daniel paused and looked up, straight into Jack's eyes.  "I want you to come with me."</div> <bR> <div> Jack felt like he'd been punched and was reeling from the blow.  "What?"</div> <bR> <div> "I don't want you to answer me while you're here.  I just need you to know that I want you to come with me, share my life.  If we need to talk about it later, after you get back home, we can do that.  But for right now . . . I've already booked a seat on the flight for you.  The ticket will be waiting at the counter for you - we'll be flying out of JFK when the time comes, so . . .  Anyway, just think about it.  Whether you're on that flight or not will tell me your decision."</div> <bR> <div> "You can't just put it on me like that," Jack said.</div> <bR> <div> "I'm sorry, I know that's not fair.  But I think there's a few things you need to decide on your own and my input would only be biased.  You said yourself you'd have to hang up your current life one day . . . I'm asking you to make that day three weeks from now and come with me to start a new one."</div> <bR> <div> "And what would I do, exactly?"</div> <bR> <div> "Anything you wanted.  You know people, I could teach you the language.  You could help me administer the camp . . . hell, you could finger paint for all I cared.  Just as long as you were with me."</div> <bR> <div> "I can't just . . ."</div> <bR> <div> Daniel silenced Jack with a rough kiss.  "I said just <I>think</I> about it.  No talking, no arguing.  Just thinking."</div> <bR> <div> "I feel like you're trying to trap me."</div> <bR> <div> "That's not the case at all," Daniel said as he lay back down.  "I'm not giving you an ultimatum - I'm giving you a choice and asking you to think about which way you want to go.  I've already said I'll be there at the end of it - I'm not threatening to leave or stop caring.  I just want you to look at some possibilities."</div> <bR> <div> ++++</div> <bR> <div> The glow from the streetlights shone through the window, turning everything a slightly amber color.  The snow had increased as the full force of the blizzard blasted its way across the Great Lakes.  Jack looked at the clock.  It was barely seven o'clock in the evening and it felt as though it were the small hours of the morning.</div> <bR> <div> Daniel's back was pressed firmly against his torso and Jack's arm was snugged securely around his waist.  There were so many feelings buzzing around inside him that he hardly knew where to begin to sort everything out.</div> <bR> <div> His feelings for Daniel had soared off the charts over the past two days.  Daniel was accommodating and difficult by turns; sullen then happy; agreeable and argumentative in equal share.  Jack had never had to think as much or as quickly around any other human being as he had with Daniel.  There was challenge and drive in the man like he'd rarely seen in anyone before.  Daniel was an honest, honorable, gentle soul with the fight of a tiger and the determination and drive of a world leader.  Jack shook his head.  How a person like Daniel could find worth in a person like him was beyond his conception.</div> <bR> <div> "Must you?" came Daniel's snuffly voice.</div> <bR> <div> "Must I what?" Jack asked as he nuzzled into the warm neck.</div> <bR> <div> "Think so loudly while I'm trying to sleep."  Daniel turned over and splayed himself across Jack.  "If I weren't so freakin' hungry, I could have slept all night.  Think that roast is ready?"</div> <bR> <div> "Must be by now - it's been cooking for twelve hours."</div> <bR> <div> "I'll make the rolls, you make the gravy and then we'll eat," Daniel said as he pushed himself into a sitting position.</div> <bR> <div> Jack reached out and rubbed the smooth back of the man who'd turned his world upside down.  "You sound like you're getting a cold.  You feelin' okay?"</div> <bR> <div> "Mmmm.... mother henning.  I like it," Daniel smiled.  "I'm fine - just stuffed up from the weather.  Come on - let's get dinner ready.  I'm starving."</div> <bR> <div> ++++</div> <bR> <div> Jack lay sprawled on the couch, one foot over the back and the other on the floor.  Daniel lay between his legs, arms wrapped snugly around Jack's waist.  They'd lost power approximately an hour before, but the gas fireplace was keeping things quite warm in the living room.  They'd been assured by the building super that the back-up generators would kick on shortly.  Jack hoped he was wrong as the atmosphere at that moment was as close to perfect as he could remember experiencing.</div> <bR> <div> "I would imagine it's much warmer than this in Egypt," Jack said quietly.</div> <bR> <div> "Scorching hot," Daniel said, the vibrations of his voice rumbling through Jack's chest.</div> <bR> <div> "Probably have stuff like . . . sand fleas though."</div> <bR> <div> "Yeah, lots of bugs."</div> <bR> <div> "You'll be there, though, so that's something."</div> <bR> <div> Daniel raised his head to look at Jack.  "Are you saying . . ."</div> <bR> <div> "I'm just saying I'm considering it."</div> <bR> <div> "I can live with that," Daniel nodded.</div> <bR> <div> Jack pushed Daniel up gently, then sat up himself.  Scrubbing his hands over his face he glanced around the room.  "Listen," he started unsurely, "I dunno if I'm gonna do this for sure or not, but right now . . . here, in this place - I can't imagine <I>not</I> going with you."</div> <bR> <div> "I know this is a lot to ask . . ."</div> <bR> <div> "It's not even that."  Jack stood up and walked around the small living room.  "I made some choices before I came out here," he said.  "For the past six months, I've cut back on business until, just before I came out here . . ."  Jack shoved his hands in the pockets of his jeans and looked out the window.  "I quit the agency.  I gave up the life."</div> <bR> <div> "You . . . you did?  That's . . . huge."</div> <bR> <div> "You would have let me stay in it, wouldn't you?"</div> <bR> <div> "I wouldn't have tolerated it forever, but for a transition, yes.  It's not exactly like I can point a finger at what you did and say it was wrong when I was one of your . . . clients."</div> <bR> <div> "I worked in the business for a very long time," Jack said, his voice barely above a whisper.  "I convinced myself that somehow, it wasn't what it appeared to be, but the truth of the matter is . . . I'm nothing but a washed up hooker, Daniel, and I can't for the life of me understand what the hell you want with a guy like me."</div> <bR> <div> "I don't understand it either," Daniel said honestly.  Jack turned to look at him.  "I don't have any illusions of what you do . . . did.  What you did.  I don't have any illusions that you might not be able to be faithful to me.  I don't have any illusions about any of this, except that I feel something when I'm with you that I don't feel with anyone else.  And that has nothing to do with your chosen . . . profession."</div> <bR> <div> "Turning tricks," Jack said harshly.</div> <bR> <div> "I'm not going to debate semantics with you," Daniel said as he stood to face Jack.  "But I know you are not your job."</div> <bR> <div> "I'm dirty," Jack said softly.  "The life I've led, the things I've done . . ."</div> <bR> <div> "You regret it?"</div> <bR> <div> "I'm starting to."</div> <bR> <div> "I can't change how you feel about that," Daniel said.  "All I can say is that I certainly don't hold you in any less esteem.  You've let me see the real you over these last few days, and what I see, I like.  Very much."</div> <bR> <div> "I've never been ashamed of what I was or what I did," Jack said.  "I never hurt anyone, never cheated, never stole anything.  But I gave away pieces of my soul and I'm just afraid."  Jack looked away, searching the snowy neighborhood outside for the answer.  "I'm afraid there isn't enough left to make this work."</div> <bR> <div> "I don't have any doubts," Daniel said confidently.</div> <bR> <div> ++++</div> <bR> <div> Jack arched up into the body above him, hands clamping onto hips as Daniel ground his way down on his cock.  "GodgodgodgodJesusGOD, Daniel!"  Jack was beside himself, knowing that the next day he'd be without this for who knew how long.  He was addicted, completely and thoroughly strung out on the feelings and emotions he'd had with Daniel for the last seven days.  No one else would ever be able to make him feel <I>this</I>.  He was well and truly ruined for anyone else.</div> <bR> <div> Daniel reached back, bracing himself on Jack's legs as his body let go, spilling come on Jack's chest and stomach, drenching the hand that was helping him to get off.  He let out one long, gasping moan as his body bucked and shook.</div> <bR> <div> Watching Daniel climax was one sure way for Jack to reach his peak - and this time was no different.  He thrust frantically into the warmth above him and threw himself heart and soul into his orgasm.</div> <bR> <div> Daniel waited until the aftershocks subsided before lifting himself carefully from Jack's still-hard cock and laying down beside him.  Jack grabbed a towel from the bedside table and wiped himself off quickly.  Rolling over, he wrapped himself around Daniel.  "I'm going to ruin your life," he whispered.  "People will find out who I am, what I used to do . . . and you'll pay the price.  It'll cost you everything you have once it all comes out."</div> <bR> <div> "I don't care," Daniel said, tired of hearing Jack's excuses.  "I'll go back to working construction, I'll pour concrete again.  It doesn't matter to me what you used to do.  Why can't you get that through your head?"</div> <bR> <div> "Because it would matter to me," Jack said, burying his face in Daniel's neck.  "If I were you, it would matter to me."</div> <bR> <div> "Well I'm not you," Daniel said, pushing Jack back so he could see him.  "And you're not me - so please stop telling me how I'm supposed to feel about this.  I know what I feel.  I've known what I've felt all along.  You trying to convince me otherwise isn't going to work."</div> <bR> <div> Jack ran his hand through Daniel's hair and brought him in for a desperate kiss.  "You're a better man that I am, Doctor Jackson."</div> <bR> <div> ++++</div> <bR> <div> Daniel sat quietly on the plane heading for Cairo.  After Jack had returned to New York, Daniel received one voice mail back saying that Jack had landed, he was fine and he'd be talking to him later.  After that, there'd been no word from Jack for nearly three weeks.</div> <bR> <div> The departure date drew closer and closer until Daniel had no choice but to admit to himself that Jack wasn't coming with him.  Their last night, full of tears and passion, was all he had to sooth the ache deep in his soul.  He checked his watch for the second time in a minute.  They were already ten minutes past their departure time and still no sign of Jack.  Had they left on time, Jack would have been left behind.  Now, every minute that ticked by merely scraped the open and bleeding wound in his heart.  Even late, Jack still hadn't come to the airport.</div> <bR> <div> Daniel heard the engines begin to come to speed in preparation for taxing and he had to fight down the lump in his throat.  The last bit of hope shattered when he heard the door ahead of him close with a thud of finality.  He shut his eyes and leaned his head back as the plane jostled about for a moment and the sounds of preparations for the flight began.</div> <bR> <div> "'Scuse me," asked a voice from the aisle.  "Is this seat taken?"</div> <bR> <div> Daniel whipped his head around and saw an out of breath Jack O'Neill standing beside him, waiting to sit down.</div> <bR> <div> "No, it's not."</div> <bR> <div> Jack quickly stowed his carry-on and sat down, buckling the seatbelt.  "I know I didn't call," Jack said, forestalling any questions.  "Quite honestly, I didn't know what I was going to do until about three hours ago.  But the thought of you leaving and not seeing you again . . . I couldn't do it.  I couldn't throw away another chance."</div> <bR> <div> "Where did you go?" Daniel asked, his voice tight with emotion.  "It's like you fell off the face of the planet."</div> <bR> <div> "Minnesota," Jack said.  "I made a trip back home.  Funny thing was, it wasn't home.  So I came back here - and this wasn't home either - not anymore.  What I finally realized was that home no longer had anything to do with me . . . but everything to do with you.  So I put all my stuff up for sale.  I told my lawyer to sell my apartment, sell my furniture, sell my clothes, sell everything and just put the money in the bank."</div> <bR> <div> "You would have missed the flight if we hadn't been late.  I thought . . . I thought . . ."</div> <bR> <div> "I know, and I'm sorry.  If I had missed this flight, I would have taken another.  I would have searched until I found you."  Jack smiled.  "Or until you found me . . . again."</div> <bR> <div> Daniel closed his hand over Jack's and smiled back.</div> <bR> <DIV ALIGN="LEFT"></DIV> <div> <I>End?  Nope....</I></div> <bR> <div> <A HREF="mailto:claforce@plotexpo.com" TARGET="_top" TITLE="mailto:claforce@plotexpo.com"><U>Give the author's ego a marshmallow . . . please feed the bear.</U></A></div> <bR> <div> <A HREF="id3_sg1_slash.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="Stargate SG1 Slash Fiction"><U>Back to Fic List</U></A>     <A HREF="id2_directory.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="Directory Listing"><U>Back to Directory</U></A></div> </td> <td valign="top" rowspan="2" width=120 BGCOLOR="#FFFFFF" TEXT="#080000" bgproperties="fixed" background="01178643.jpg"> <bR> </td> </tr><tr> <td valign="top" height=52 BGCOLOR="#FFFFFF" TEXT="#080000" bgproperties="fixed" background="00f64643.jpg"> <div> <TABLE BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="161" BORDERCOLORLIGHT="#C0C0C0" BORDERCOLORDARK="#808080" FRAME="BOX" RULES="ALL" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" > <tR> <tD VALIGN=CENTER HEIGHT= 45 ><NOBR><div> <IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="39" ALIGN="BOTTOM" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" WIDTH="29"></div> </NOBR></tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP><NOBR><div> <A HREF="index.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="Plotexpo.com"><U><IMG SRC="0181d270.jpg" border=0 width="29" height="39" ALIGN="BOTTOM" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0"></U></A></div> </NOBR></tD> <tD VALIGN=CENTER WIDTH="15"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="45" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="15" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0"></tD> <tD VALIGN=CENTER><NOBR><div> <A HREF="id43.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="Love Somebody, Yes I Do ..."><U><IMG SRC="017271d0.jpg" border=0 width="39" height="29" ALIGN="BOTTOM" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0"></U></A></div> </NOBR></tD> <tD VALIGN=CENTER><NOBR><div> <A HREF="id45.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="Bound to Be Free"><U><IMG SRC="016271d0.jpg" border=0 width="39" height="29" ALIGN="BOTTOM" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0"></U></A></div> </NOBR></tD> </tR> </TABLE></div> <bR> <bR> </td> </tr></table></body>