Rating: NC17

Spoilers: None

Author: Vasalysa, with many undying thanks to Geek.

E-mail: cmbower@ennorath.net Comments are always welcome

McQueen stopped in the bathroom doorway, transfixed by the humongous garden tub. 'Definitely room for two, or even four, people,' he thought. The emperor size bed had surprised him, but he'd figured they should have plenty of room for a change. But such a huge tub?

Slipping past him, Silver examined several bottles on a shelf above the toilet. "Good. Plenty of bubble bath."

That reminded him of what she'd said and he felt like trying the tub out immediately. "Too bad we don't have time for a bath."

"A shower will have to do." Silver returned to the main room. "Come give me a hand?"

Turning around, McQueen saw that Silver had already dropped her flight suit to her waist. "Definitely."

Ross sat in the movie theater, a tub of popcorn in his lap and a drink on his armrest. He was several minutes early and wondered how late the other two would be.

The door opened and the two colonels walked in, dressed in hot weather uniforms consisting of short sleeves and long pants. Ross admitted that they both looked good and felt a familiar tightening in his groin.

To Ross' surprise, McQueen dropped a hand on his shoulder and said silkily, "Didn't want to keep you waiting for our coming. There'll be enough of that later."

The implications of what McQueen hinted at made Ross tingle with anticipation and trepidation.

Silver handed McQueen a tub of popcorn and a drink. "Let's start the first movie. it's W. C. Fields in It's A Gift."

McQueen sat down a seat over from Ross and put his feet up on the back of the seats before him. When Ross looked at him in surprise, he said, "It's just the three of us." Settling the popcorn in his lap, McQueen smiled. "I'd never do this in a real theater with other people."

"No, you wouldn't. You aren't that inconsiderate." Silver kissed McQueen on the forehead before sitting down beside him, her own popcorn and drink in hand. "Now, let's enjoy."

They laughed and cried their way through nearly five hours of movies, taking breaks as necessary between shows. Silver didn't hide her tears or laughter from the two men and they loosened up enough to do the same. When the lights came up after Chaplain's The Gold Rush, Silver rose, stretching.

"I think I've had enough movie watching for a while. How about you?"

Ross yawned. "Yes."

"So what's next?" McQueen gave Silver a deep look.

"Ready for some serious poker?" she shot back, grinning.

"Some food would be nice."

"Room service, Glen. They should be preparing a meal right now."

"You've thought of everything," muttered Ross, eying her suspiciously.

She shrugged. "I added up the time of the movies, threw in some extra time for bathroom stops and just general stretching between shows, and added it to the schedule I submitted."

"Just what do you have planned?" McQueen glared at Silver.

"For the poker game? I just anticipated the fact we'd be hungry and thirsty. Now, are you two still game or have you turned chicken on me?"

McQueen grabbed her and pulled her against him. "Oh, I'm game all right. Watch yourself."

"Same to you."

Ross stood up, looking at the two colonels, his friends. "All right. I'm still in."

"So where's it to be played?" asked McQueen.

"My quarters."

McQueen glanced at Ross in surprise, then over at Silver. "You set it up that way?"

"Yes."

Understanding why made McQueen nod. It gave Ross a sense of control in a situation he was still unsure about. "Shall we go then?"

"Might as well." Ross set the empty popcorn tub down on his seat and headed for the door.

Room service was just pulling up outside Ross' quarters as the three arrived; the cart was taken inside by McQueen, who parked it next to the poker table.

"So who sits where?" McQueen uncovered the cart and found the makings for cold sandwiches, ice and non-alcoholic drinks. He raised an eyebrow at the drink selection.

"I want everyone to have their wits about them. No accusations of alcohol having blurred the senses or wits. This is going to be a serious game, but we're also going to have fun." Silver grinned.

Her grin reminded Ross of the Cheshire Chat and he had the feeling that this game of poker would change their relationships forever. A part of him felt terror at the idea of baring his soul and body to this vampire, but he also felt like he wanted to find that sense of relief.

"You two pick your seats." Silver started making a ham, turkey and Swiss sandwich.

McQueen gathered the makings for a roast beef, ham, turkey, and Swiss sandwich. "Glen, what would you like?"

"One like yours, please." Ross took a seat randomly and watched McQueen finish making the two sandwiches. McQueen sat to his left, leaving Silver on his right. "Who deals the first hand?"

Silver set drinks down before the two men and at her place. Sitting down with her sandwich plate, she said, "The two of you can argue that one. I do have some ground rules for the game though."

"Surprise," muttered Ross before biting into his sandwich.

Silver pretended not to hear. "First, you may've noticed the change in attire for both Ty and myself. We should have equal numbers of clothing to remove. Second, there is only one winner per hand. The other two must remove one article of clothing. Third, a pair of shoes is one item, the same with socks. A belt and pants is one item. Fourth, once one of us is disrobed completely, the next one close to it will also be considered to have lost. The one with the most clothing on is the winner. Fifth, the winner is allowed to dictate a sexual situation between the two losers."

"What kind of a game is this?"

Silver met Ross' gaze frankly. "One vampires play, Glen. Sex and blood, remember? Afterward, all three dress again and we continue."

"For how long?" McQueen sipped his drink.

"Everyone should win at least once. If we continue after that can be decided later."

McQueen said, "Twice. Everyone should win twice."

"Any objections?" Silver asked Ross.

"No. Any other rules?"

"No. Just a note of reassurance, I won't drink from either of you without your express permission." Silver took a bite of her sandwich.

"Was that a possibility?" Ross toyed with his glass.

Silver shook her head. "No, but I figured I'd lay to rest any possible fears of such an occurrence."

Picking up the deck of cards, McQueen shuffled them several times, cut them twice and shuffled again. "Do you want to deal, Glen?"

"No, go ahead, Ty."

By the third hand, McQueen knew that Silver was deliberately losing to Ross. He watched her bluff the stakes up only to get called by Ross and show a losing hand. It occurred to him why as he noticed that Ross had finally relaxed and settled in to seriously play. Another attempt on her part to give Ross a sense of control. Realizing this, McQueen knew that Ross had to win the first round. Like Silver, he started to lose enough to keep Ross with the most clothing.

With a laugh, Silver tossed her cards down and removed her panties. She stood beside the table, naked. "Well, I definitely lost." Turning around, she said, "I won't win any beauty contests, but I don't think I look too bad, if you ignore the scars."

The sight of her bare, trim, well-muscled body distracted Ross. With an effort, he concentrated on his cards. He called McQueen's bluff and the Marine chuckled, tossing his cards on the table, face down.

"You win, Glen." Rising, McQueen peeled off his t-shirt and shorts. He reached out and grabbed Silver by the waist, pulling her to him. After kissing her thoroughly, McQueen gave his friend a challenging look, letting his erection show with no attempt to hide it. "Well, Glen? What shall it be? Do we get dressed again? Or do you have something in mind for us to do?"

His body hard and aching from the sight and actions of the two naked Marines, it took Ross a moment to think of something. "I think-" He coughed, swallowed and started again. "I think you two should make love. But I'd like to see her drink from you, Ty. I want to see it done for real."

Nodding his understanding, McQueen kissed Silver again. "It's fine with me. And Glen, if you need a hand afterward, I'd be happy to help out." With a wicked grin, McQueen swept Silver off her feet and carried her to the bed.

"I think he can handle anything that comes up." Grinning, Silver stretched out on the bed where McQueen deposited her, reveling in the comfort and softness. "Ah, a real bed. This is going to be fun." Her lips curved in a knowing smile as she reached up and tugged McQueen down next to her. Before McQueen could prevent her, Silver bent her head and started licking his erection.

A low moan rewarded her and she felt McQueen's hands caress her body as she paid lavish attention to his erect member and sacs of flesh beneath. He spread his legs with no prompting and Silver extended her attentions to the inside of his thighs, sending quivers through his legs and producing gut-deep moans of appreciation. She licked the length of his erection and then buried it in her mouth and throat making him thrust up helplessly, hands clenched in the blankets. After several long, slow pulls, Silver licked her way up to his nipples and, after making them pucker, reached his throat, jaw and mouth.

McQueen kissed her deeply, passionately, his tongue curling with hers. He rolled her onto her back and proceeded to lick and nibble his way down her body. Every time a shiver of desire swept through her, he chuckled softly. He slid his hand down between her parted legs and explored gently. Dampness greeted him and he slid two fingers in carefully before lowering his head. Long, languid strokes of his tongue made her dig fingers into his hips. Working the tip of his tongue down to the hard, little nub had her moaning continuously. As he pumped the fingers of the one hand in and out of her, increasing the speed as he went along, McQueen let the other hand toy with her nipples, squeezing and kneading. He worked her clit with his mouth, using his teeth and tongue to drive her toward climax.

She came with a hard, groaning gasp, her hands clutching his body. McQueen didn't stop his actions, working to drive her along to a second one. Before she could reach it, he turned around and drove his hard erection deep into her with one fast stroke. She arched up into him, her hands moving to his shoulders. He set a fast rhythm, nuzzling her neck on the opposite side from Ross.

Fascinated, Ross couldn't tear his gaze away as McQueen started moving faster and faster, driving deep into her, mouth roving from her mouth to her breasts. He knew McQueen would come very soon. He watched as Silver raised her head and sank her teeth into McQueen's throat. A shudder swept through McQueen, his head snapped back, and a soft cry of sheer pleasure escaped. The shudder returned stronger and McQueen climaxed, his head dropping down onto Silver's shoulder. She released her hold on his throat, licking it before tightening her grip on his upper body. Slowly, McQueen sank down onto his elbows over her, his chest heaving.

Ross suppressed a groan at the ache he felt in his groin. He'd been so wrapped up in watching that he hadn't even used his hands.

On the bed, McQueen moved down Silver, licking and kissing all the way to her toes. Then she sat up as he rose onto his knees, and sucked his still hard cock into her mouth, sucking the last drops out.

McQueen turned his head to Ross. "I think you need some help, Glen. Shall I?"

"That's all right. I'll be fine." Ross had no intention of jacking off before the two of them. While they had been engaged was one thing, but with them both watching? No way.

A slow grin spread across McQueen's face. "Feeling a bit shy, are we?" He gave Silver a kiss as she sat back up. "Why don't you go grab a quick shower? I'll be in as soon as I've helped Glen with his problem." He stood up.

"Don't be too long." Silver rolled off the bed and headed for the bathroom, unmindful of the semen running down one leg.

Ross started to get up, intent on staying away from McQueen.

With Invitro speed, McQueen reached Ross before he had even reached his feet. He gently pushed Ross back down onto the chair. "Or would you rather the bed? It's quite comfortable."

"Not the bed." Ross felt coherent speech starting to desert him.

"Ok."

McQueen knelt, going down on both knees, and freed his friend's raging erection. He held it and started to lick it before sucking on it.

When McQueen started sucking him, taking it deep, Ross couldn't help but grip the blond head firmly. To his surprise, McQueen let him set the rhythm. Slower, faster, deeper, shallow, whatever he wanted. The pressure McQueen exerted on his rampant cock remained constant and started to drive him over the edge. Head lolled back, Ross set a fast pace, now desperate to finish. The climax caught him almost unawares and he gasped loudly as he was sucked hard. Breathing hard, he collapsed back against the chair, feeling McQueen still sucking him dry.

Cold glass touched his lips and Ross opened his mouth. The cold liquid soothed the fire in his throat. He opened his eyes and saw Silver holding the glass. The mouth on his flesh released its hold and McQueen stood up, licking his lips.

With her free hand, Silver pulled McQueen to her and she kissed him. "Mm. He tastes good."

"Yes, he does."

Ross took the glass from Silver. "Now what?"

"We dress and play until we have another winner."

McQueen kissed Silver again before grabbing his clothes. "Be just a moment." He headed for the shower.

"Are you all right?" Silver asked as she started dressing.

Slowly Ross nodded and rose to walk over to his side of the table. Donning his t-shirt and button-up shirt, he remained quiet. As he was fastening his shoes, Ross admitted, "It was not quite the way I imagined."

"What?" Buttoning up her uniform blouse, Silver studied Ross face. He appeared introspective.

"Ty seemed almost... well, almost out of control, there at the end."

With a chuckle, Silver answered, "Glen, love, he was still very much in control. Despite everything, I think he's still afraid he might hurt me."

"And when you bit him?"

"I try to time it to just before he comes. It enhances the climax."

"Mm."

McQueen left the bathroom, hair still wet. "Are we ready for the next round?" He resumed his seat.

"Oh, yes. My appetite is whetted now." Silver sat down. She gave Ross a sharp look. "And you?"

"I'm ready... for whatever comes." Ross sat down and reached for the cards. "I believe it is my deal."

Within a couple of rounds, McQueen realized that Silver was aiming for him to win this time. He examined his cards studiously, pondering the effects of his winning. Ross and Silver together. Did he feel uncomfortable with the idea? He almost snorted with the realization that it didn't bother him. She was a vampire and had to bed several other men just to stay healthy. The fact that she wanted to come back to him after each one was what mattered, not who or how many. It was part and parcel of taking a vampire as a mate. Ross and Silver as his two best friends in bed together? That bothered him slightly, but because he didn't want their relationship damaged. The fact that Silver apparently was for it signaled to him that she thought the friendship would survive.

Decided, McQueen ruthlessly drove the bidding up, confident in his cards. Ross hand turned out to be almost as good as his own.

Hand by hand, the game went, McQueen managing to stay ahead barely. Ross didn't want to lose and played hard.

Silver again lost and she laughed, tossing her cards across the table to McQueen. "Here you go. What's your pleasure, love?" She leaned over and kissed him before standing up to take off her bra.

Pretending to be thinking about it, McQueen leaned back in his seat. "Glen could still win the hand."

"Wouldn't matter. He's got two fewer clothes than you." Silver stepped over beside Ross and ran her hand from his shoulder down his back to his buttocks. "So, what's it to be? Do we get dressed again and go another round? Or do we get physical?" She breathed the last in Ross ear.

A shiver went through Ross at the words. He gave McQueen an almost panicked look.

"Go lie down, Glen. She's going to make love to you." McQueen motioned for Silver to move over by him. In a low whisper as Ross stared at the bed, McQueen said, "Be good to him, Lysa. Don't drink."

"I intend to and I wouldn't. I already said I wouldn't without express permission. And you gave yours." Silver kissed McQueen deeply. "Are you ok with this?"

"Yes."

The touch of reluctance in his voice made her hug him tightly. "You might as well get used to the sight of me and others."

"I know."

"You can still change your mind."

"No. Go on. But I might join you."

"Give me a bit with him first. After all, it is supposed to be him and me."

McQueen nodded.

Silver turned and found that Ross was standing beside the bed, seemingly transfixed by the rumpled covers. She padded over to him, approaching from the side, entering his peripheral vision. Resting her hands on his shoulders, Silver licked the back of his neck. Nibbling her way down Ross' spine, she let her hands roam freely over his chest and abdomen. Stopping at the base of his spine, Silver pushed Ross gently toward the bed.

He stopped when his legs hit the bed.

With a soft sigh, Silver stood up. She turned Ross around and gently kissed him, coaxing him to respond. He deepened the kiss after a few seconds and Silver eased him down onto the bed, busying her hands on his hardening cock.

Gasping for air, Ross broke the kiss off, aware that Silver was kneeling over him, her hands stroking him firmly. "I..."

"Don't worry. I won't drink from you. Relax. We're going to make love like everyone else does."

He relaxed, slightly.

From the table, McQueen made himself comfortable by stripping off the last of his clothes. He watched as Silver kissed, nibbled and licked her way down Ross. A low moan escaped him as she sucked the entire length of Ross' cock into her mouth; he knew how wonderful it felt and heard Ross' soft gasp. Settling back into the chair, McQueen prepared to enjoy the show for a while before joining.

He could see how Silver concentrated on giving Ross enjoyment by using her mouth and hands to excellent effect. Every time Ross started up the road to climax, Silver soothed him back down. Then she moved up to kiss Ross who responded eagerly, and McQueen knew the time had arrived for Ross to mount her.

She held onto Ross as she rolled onto her back. He drove into her depths hard and fast to her delight. To the side, she could see McQueen approaching and she held out her hand to him. "Come on. Join the party."

One arm firmly wrapped around Ross' chest, Silver pulled McQueen across the bed so she could kiss him. "God, how I love doing that." She looked up at Ross who had stopped moving. "Something wrong, Glen?"

"Ah, I..."

The surprise on Ross' face when McQueen kissed him made Silver chuckle. "Not going to deny him a good time, are you?"

"No, but what... How..."

"Ty, are you up to a bit of weight? Say if you were under me?" Silver kissed McQueen again, her hand traveling down to caress his rock hard erection. "Are you game?"

"Hell yes." McQueen kissed Silver again.

It took a minute for the change in position. McQueen lay on his back with Silver easing him into her ass. She then urged Ross to continue as he had been. "Come on. You'll enjoy it."

"I take it you've done something like this before." Ross stood, uncertain, beside the bed.

"I've made love with up to six individuals at a time."

"Can we say orgy?" whispered McQueen in her ear, kneading her breast.

"Can we say fun? Come on, Glen. Give it a try. I really think you'll enjoy it." When Ross still hesitated, Silver played her trump card. "'Sides this way, you control when all of us get to come."

Chewing his lip in lieu of a cigar, Ross stood indecisive. He studied the two on the bed for several more seconds. Then he climbed onto the bed. "A good soldier finishes a job started."

"That's the spirit." Silver sighed with pleasure as Ross entered her.

A gasp escaped both men as their cocks rubbed together. With no further urging, Ross started moving.

Silver let her head slide down beside McQueen's. She kissed him. To her surprise, Ross kissed her and then McQueen.

"In for a penny, in for a pound." Ross kissed Silver again.

McQueen continued toying with one of Silver's breasts and, a few seconds later, Ross began sucking on the other. "Oh yes," she moaned.

After several minutes, Ross experimented with varying his thrusts, making them slower, deeper or faster. Seeing McQueen's face telegraphing the pleasure given as well as Silver's gave him a sense of enjoyment and power over the other two. The point came when he started driving himself hard and fast.

The intense sensation grew too much for McQueen and he pressed up into her as he climaxed with a low groan. The feel of McQueen pulsing in her brought Silver over the edge. As her muscles tightened, Ross gasped and clutched her shoulders as he thrust in hard.

It took Ross a moment to recover. He slid off to the left, slipping free, and watched as Silver rolled to the right, allowing McQueen to resume breathing normally.

"Bath this time," declared Silver. "There's room for all."

"I had noticed. This is going to cost us a bundle, paying for all the hot water," remarked McQueen, rolling onto his side.

"Included in the bill. I specified unlimited hot water." Silver leaned over and sucked Ross into her mouth. Once he was clean, she kissed him. "A bath will do us all some good. It'll revive flagging bodies." Rising, she made a beeline for the bathroom. "Come on, you two."

McQueen accepted a hand up from Ross. "Might as well."

In the bathroom, Silver had already started the water and sat in the huge tub as bubbles filled the tub. "No hanky panky, boys, just a nice relaxing bath. I promise." She began cleaning herself up.

McQueen stepped into the water and sighed gratefully at the fact it wasn't overly hot. He settled in beside her and cleaned himself. "Perfect temperature, love."

"I aim to please." Silver saw Ross entering the room. "Coming in, Glen?"

"Yes."

Ross sat down opposite McQueen and Silver. As the water enveloped him, he smiled softly. "I don't know how I'm going to keep up with you two."

"We'll think of something, I'm sure." Silver stretched out, her arm behind McQueen's head. "If we have to, we'll take a break and grab some sleep."

Sliding a hand down Silver's front, McQueen murmured, "Be a shame to break up the fun."

"Well, I don't think Glen is ready for one of the options." Silver brought her other wrist forward. "I know I only took a mouthful, but I want you to take a bit back."

"Are you sure?"

"Yes."

McQueen took her bleeding wrist and took a big swallow. "That's more than enough."

Her wrist in her mouth, Silver eyed Ross covertly, curious as to his reaction. He stared at her wrist and licked his lips nervously. Pleased that he had gotten the message, she allowed her arm to slide back into the water and closed her eyes.

A moment later, Ross asked softly, "Would that provide me with the strength to keep up?"

"Most definitely." Silver opened her eyes and smiled gently at him. "It's ok, Glen. You don't have to. There are alternatives. Including drugs. I checked the ship's pharmacy with this in mind. There are three different drugs available."

"No drugs." Ross shook his head and leaned back.

"Like I said, you don't have to. We'll figure something out."

"Glen, I don't want you uncomfortable with any of this." McQueen sat straight. "If you're uncomfortable, just say the word and we'll stop."

"Too late for that." Ross chuckled. "I've already been more adventurous than I'd figured on. And this is more sex than I've had since my last leave back home."

"Think of it as preparation for greeting Rhonda properly." McQueen grinned.

"I think she'll appreciate it," grinned Ross back. "But I think I won't divulge all the details."

"Just bring her to the wedding." McQueen felt relief when Silver nodded agreement. "After all you've done for me over the years, Glen, and all she's put up with because of me, Rhonda deserves to be there as much as you do."

"I wasn't sure if I should ask."

"Glen, of course you should have." Silver frowned. "Now enough. You need to relax for a bit. Don't worry. We won't let you drown in the tub."

"Thanks... I think." Ross slid downward until his head was the only part of him not in the water. He closed his eyes, determined to relax.

Mindful of making waves and of her promise to Ross, Silver turned and sat on McQueen's lap. She kissed him gently and lovingly. "I love you, Tyrus Cassius McQueen."

"I love you, Lysa Silver." Pulling her against him in a full-length body hug, McQueen asked, "Do you have a middle name?"

"Gwen."

"A good name." Holding her tight, McQueen satisfied himself with hugging her. He had no intention of making love in the tub until after Glen had relaxed for a while.

Her head on his shoulder, Silver enjoyed the feel of McQueen against her body and his arms wrapped around her. She watched Ross, aware when he slipped into a light doze after five minutes. "We've tired him out," she murmured.

"He's not a young man any more, love."

"Neither are you."

"But I'm-"

"I know what you are, love. That's not it. He hasn't had enough sex in his life lately."

"Nothing to be done about it. We are at war."

"And we manage just fine."

"Are you suggesting-"

"Does it bother you?"

"The Corps won't like it if we're found out."

"He's Navy."

"I know, but he is technically our superior officer."

"Yes, he is the officer in charge of the ship. It wouldn't have to include changes to your routines. Your late night get-togethers would allow you the time and place."

"But I don't want to ruin the friendship or our time together."

"We can work on that, love."

"I'll think about it." McQueen hugged her tight.

"Better wake him up before he slides down." Silver reluctantly let go of McQueen and slid across the tub to Ross. She gently kissed him.

Ross responded and then opened his eyes. For a second, he looked confused. Then he remembered and relaxed. "Time to get out?"

"'Fraid so." Silver rose, holding out a hand to both men.

"Do we let the water out?" McQueen glanced at the drain.

"No. You might have noticed that the water hasn't cooled. There's a heater installed to keep the water warm." She stepped out of the tub followed by Ross.

Ross took the towel she handed him and started drying off. Briefly he wondered if he should offer to dry Silver, but when he saw that McQueen also took a towel and began using it, Ross set about finishing.

Silver finished after both men and followed them out into the main room. "Ready for another round?"

"Yes." Ross grabbed his clothes.

Soon they were dressed and back at the table. In three rounds, McQueen knew that Silver intended for Ross to win. He wondered when she planned on winning and realized what would happen when she did. Understanding her plan, he proceeded to participate.

McQueen lost all his clothes first. Chuckling, he pulled his t-shirt over his head. "Looks like you win again, Glen." He leaned over the table and kissed Silver. Looking at Ross, he asked, "Your pleasure?"

"I think you two are setting me up." Ross leaned back. When neither answered, merely waited for his instructions, he sighed. "Go at it, folks. Enjoy yourselves."

Silver finished undressing and stepped over to Ross. She kissed him. "You'll never forget this time, Glen, and that's the idea. Now just relax and enjoy the show."

As they stretched out on the bed, McQueen asked Silver softly, "He takes me first?"

"I always knew you were smart."

He returned her kiss eagerly. "Then the next time you win, it's my turn." McQueen caressed her breast.

"Yes." Silver ran her hands up and down his body.

"The last round?" McQueen nibbled at her throat.

"Yes." She cupped him and tugged lightly, making him moan.

"That'll make three rounds. I don't think he'll make it that far." McQueen parted her legs and slipped a couple of fingers into her dampness.

"Don't worry. He'll get some help. Now stop talking."

By the time McQueen and Silver were going at it full bore, Ross watched enviously. He was hard, but not achingly so. He didn't have the energy to keep up with these two. A sigh escaped. Briefly Ross wondered if he should accept Silver's offer of blood. The thought of drinking her blood both enticed and repelled him.

The two lovers were still going strong, Ross noticed. Such energy after this many times astounded him. Clearly drinking Silver's blood had taken years off McQueen's age. For a brief second, Ross envied him and hated himself for that envy. To have that energy had cost McQueen over the years. But he couldn't help fantasizing about having him turn all that energy on him.

"You appear to need a hand there, Glen."

McQueen's voice startled Ross from his thoughts and he jumped slightly.

"Sorry. Didn't mean to startle you." McQueen crouched beside Ross and grinned up at him.

Looking down into the brilliant sapphire eyes, Ross felt his heart lurch. He would pay any price to have McQueen give him the same intense lovemaking. "You missed a spot on your chin."

McQueen gave a satisfied smile and reached up to wipe his chin, but Ross stopped his hand. When McQueen gave him a quizzical look, Ross gave into a sense of inevitability and leaned over to lick the spot clean. The taste of McQueen and Silver blended together made him sigh.

"Glen?" McQueen gave him a concerned look.

"Do you think her offer still stands?" Ross asked in McQueen's ear.

"It does." McQueen reached up and caressed Ross' cheek.

"And Ty, do you think there could be more to our friendship? Without endangering it? Or is that too much to ask?"

"We'll see, Glen. There's time for that later. Right now, let me help you with this." McQueen ran his fingers up the length of his friend's firm, but not hard, cock.

"You don't need to, Ty." As McQueen used a hand to pump, Ross moaned in pleasure.

"But I want to. It pleases me to, Glen. I want you to enjoy this time to the fullest."

Ross moaned again as McQueen's mouth engulfed him and started sucking.

By the time Ross recovered from the resultant climax a while later, he felt drained. Hands were massaging his chest and shoulders so Ross kept his eyes closed.

"You look tired, Glen," came Silver's quiet voice from in front of him.

Eyes still closed, Ross admitted, "I am. I don't have the strength to keep up with the both of you. I don't want to use drugs. But I do want to finish the game." He reached out.

Silver guided his hands to her hips before resuming the massage. "That doesn't leave many options."

"How much would I have to drink?"

"A couple of swallows before each session."

"That many?" Ross opened his eyes to gaze into her emerald green ones. "I'm scared," he admitted. "It's hard to think of doing."

"It's all right. Most people are scared, even those who grow up around my kind. The first time is always the hardest. A bit like the first time you made love. You know the mechanics and what you want to do. But actually doing it scares you to death."

"Yes," breathed Ross.

Silver kissed him. "Would you like a taste now?"

"Are you going to need to drink from me?" His eyes widened.

"No."

Ross chewed his lower lip for a second. "Yes."

She smiled at him and used a canine tooth to cut her wrist. The sight of the blood welling to the surface sent a shiver down Ross' spine.

"You don't want to waste it, Glen." Another set of hands started massaging Ross' shoulders. "Just touch your lips to the blood. Suck some in and swallow. That's all there is to it."

"Easy for you to say."

"Glen, at least you're conscious enough to make the decision. I didn't really have a choice the first time. I was too close to death." McQueen's fingers tightened involuntarily. He loosened them, saying, "It's all right, Glen. Just do it before you lose your nerve."

That did it. Ross bent his head over the proffered wrist and put his mouth over the blood. He sucked hard and nearly gasped. Her blood reminded him of a fruity wine. Two swallows and he lifted his head, aware that the blood didn't actually go down his throat.

Silver licked her wrist. "Close your eyes and picture yourself as rested, full of energy." She kept her voice soft, even and soothing. "It doesn't really matter how you think it as long as you remember the end result you want. Relaxed and energized."

Obeying, Ross thought of his body like a battery being recharged. A tingling sensation swept through his body as he held the image in mind. When the sensation faded, Ross opened his eyes. "It worked. I feel like I did before we started the game."

"Good. Another dose later will leave you feeling even better." Silver smiled. "Now, do you still feel worried about another drink?"

"No."

"Excellent. Shall we continue the game?"

"Yes."

Silver started winning steadily.

Down four articles of clothing, Ross looked up at her as he dealt out the next hand. "I have the feeling I might as well concede defeat. You're going to win this round."

"You could still win." McQueen grinned.

Ross gave McQueen a piercing look. "Right. And you have a planet to sell."

With a chuckle, McQueen slid two cards across the table. "Two, please."

Ross dealt out two cards to McQueen. "Lysa?"

"One." She slid a card over and took the one he dealt her.

After a hard look at his own cards, Ross decided to take two. "Two for the dealer." He suppressed a groan at the sight of the new cards, a hand full of nothing except a pair of tens. "Start it, Ty."

Having bluffed his way through the first round of betting, Ross sighed as he set his cards back down on the table. "I fold."

"Fifty," McQueen said firmly.

"Call," came Silver's instant reply.

Silver's full house beat McQueen's two pair. She grinned and leaned back, appreciating the view as the two men both shed their t-shirts. "Very nice, guys. I really like the view."

"You have to keep winning to see more." McQueen gestured to the deck. "My deal, I believe."

Silver lost that hand to McQueen and the next to Ross. Then she won two in a row, causing the men to lose their next to last clothes. As they sat down clad only in their shorts, Silver gave a wolf whistle.

"Down, girl." McQueen deliberately stretched.

"So very glad you're enjoying the sights," drawled Ross. "It's your deal."

Gathering the cards, Silver said, "I've already won. One of you has to lose, even if the other one wins. And as I've got three pieces of clothes left..." She shuffled.

"Do we give her the win or make her fight for it?" McQueen asked Ross.

"Make her fight for it, of course."

Her full house, three queens and two eights, beat McQueen's three tens and Ross' two pair consisting of sevens and nines.

Silver beckoned McQueen over. "Let me help you with that."

She pulled down his shorts and licked him several times. Giving Ross a sultry look, Silver said, "Are you ready?"

Ross stood, stripped off his shorts and stepped over. "As ready as I ever will be." He crouched down beside Silver's chair, daringly running a hand down the inside of her thigh.

"Definitely loosening up," murmured Silver, burying her fingers in the stiff black hair. Then she cut her wrist open and said, "Drink until I tell you to stop."

Before he could change his mind, Ross bent his head and covered the slowly bleeding cut. He swallowed three, four times and started to wonder if he should release her wrist.

Seeming to sense his thoughts, Silver said softly, "One more."

A last swallow and Ross straightened, closing his eyes.

"Now, concentrate. Remember what I told you before. Imagine energy flowing into you." Silver placed her hand on Ross' cheek, willing strength into him. After a few minutes, she asked, "How do you feel now?"

Ross looked up at her. "Like I've had six hours of sleep."

"That good, huh?" McQueen looked up from where he lay on the bed. "You, my friend, have not been getting enough sleep."

"Much as I tried, I kept thinking about how things could be done more efficiently." Ross shrugged. "It's neither here nor there." He looked at Silver. "What's your wish?"

"You are going to make love to that gorgeous hunk on the bed." She saw lust appear in Ross' eyes. "Go on. He's yours for the taking."

"What about you?"

"Don't worry about me. Now go and satisfy that lust I see in your eyes." She watched him stand up and turn to look at McQueen. His startled reaction made her chuckle. "Wicked, isn't he?"

"Oh, yes," breathed Ross.

As Ross approached the far side of the bed, Silver ran her eyes over McQueen. He rested on his side, head propped on his left hand and his right leg bent upward. He left the magnificent cock hardening on his lower abdomen revealed. With a sly grin, McQueen licked his finger and ran it up the length of his cock, making it twitch.

Ross' own hardening cock responded in kind.

A wicked grin touched McQueen's lips. "That appears to have the desired effect on us both." He wet his finger again and repeated the action. As Ross groaned, responding to the sight, McQueen chuckled. "Definitely affects us both." He wrapped his hand around his cock, slowly moving upward. "Do you enjoy watching me?"

"Y-" Ross had to clear his suddenly thick throat and try again. "Yes."

"Shall I do it some more?"

Ross nodded jerkily, unable to trust his voice, as he sat on the edge of the bed.

With a satisfied smile, Silver sat back to watch the show.

McQueen ran his hand up and down his body over the next ten minutes, showing his friend what he liked. He wiped a bit of pre-cum onto a finger and licked it off, eyes on Ross. Intense desire showed in Ross' eyes. Slowly, McQueen reached over and smeared the droplet of pre-cum off the hard, dark cock and licked his finger clean. Ross' breathing hitched. Taking what pre-cum remained on his own, McQueen raised his finger to Ross' mouth where it was sucked clean.

That broke the spell holding Ross in place. He started touching McQueen, caressing and kissing. It became a frenzy of hands and mouths giving pleasure.

At last, Ross struggled to his knees. "Dammit, Ty! I want you now!"

"About time." McQueen pulled Ross down for a kiss. "Just take it slow to start." From the night stand, McQueen pulled a tube of lubricant. He coated Ross liberally before rolling onto his stomach and working some into himself.

"Ty!"

Getting to his hands and knees, McQueen moved over the edge of the bed. "Slow and easy."

"Shouldn't I-" Ross stood behind McQueen, hands resting on the narrow waist.

"It'll be fine so long as you remember slow and easy."

Five minutes later, Ross ran his hands over the sleek, scarred back. "God, you feel so damned good, Ty." Completely buried in McQueen, Ross had to fight the urge to start moving hard and fast.

"So do you. Go ahead. Start moving."

"Slow and easy. Slow and easy," chanted Ross softly to himself.

Soon, Ross could satisfy his desire to speed up. He could feel McQueen thrusting back against him. Reaching forward, he gently caressed McQueen's neck navel with his wet thumb.

A low moan accompanied by an intense shudder coursed through McQueen.

"Was that ok?" Concerned, Ross stopped moving.

"Oh, yes, Glen. More than ok." McQueen shoved backward. "Don't stop."

After several minutes of lightly touching McQueen's neck navel, Ross decided to be daring. He leaned over the bare back and sucked gently.

McQueen bucked and groaned.

"That feels so damned good, Glen," McQueen managed. "Be careful or you'll send me over the edge."

"Ok."

Ross returned over and over to McQueen's neck navel. He sucked once or twice before ignoring it until he felt compelled to return. Each time he sucked the raised flesh, McQueen's responses grew more frenzied.

"Glen!"

Ross nearly jumped when Silver whispered in his ear, "If you want him to come, do it hard and fast, same to his navel. Otherwise, I'd say slow down."

Realizing he didn't want to slow down, Ross leaned forward as he thrust hard, sucking on McQueen's navel.

McQueen bucked hard, thrusting back, groaning. "Come on, Glen. Fuck me!"

"Doing my best," growled Ross, intensifying his actions.

In minutes, Ross felt McQueen jerk and shudder. The tightening of McQueen's muscles sent him over the edge. When he finally returned to his senses, he found himself on his back, stretched out. Beside him sat McQueen, a washcloth in hand.

"Back with us, I see." McQueen grinned. "How do you feel?"

"A bit tired." He suppressed a yawn.

"You can rest while we play the next round." McQueen tossed the washcloth to Silver. "You're all cleaned up, Glen."

Getting to his feet, Ross asked, "How long since... ah..."

"Ten mikes. We let you doze a bit." McQueen rested his hand on Ross' shoulder. "Thought you could use the mental break."

"Mental break?" Ross chuckled softly. "This has been anything but mental, my friend." He looked over at where Silver sat at the table.

"Oh, is that why you haven't won all the hands?" Silver smiled gently, taking any sting out of the words.

"I'm not a superman like Ty here." Ross punched McQueen in the arm. "All right, are we ready to get dressed?"

McQueen punched Ross back. "Just waiting on you."

Each won a hand, leaving them tied after three hands. McQueen won two of the next three while Ross took the third one.

Silver rose smiling and slid her panties off. "Ready, Glen?"

"Win, yet still lose. What a vicious game." Ross stood up, shaking his head.

"It drives the game along. Think how long it would take if only one of us lost per hand." Silver kissed Ross, sliding her hand inside his shorts' waistband. When she broke off the kiss, she dropped the shorts to his ankles.

He followed her passively to the bed, allowing her to push him down. She held her bleeding wrist before him and Ross took several good swallows. Then he leaned back, eyes closed, thinking of how to recharge his flagging strength.

About to say he was ready, Ross felt her mouth on his groin. A moan of pleasure escaped as she used her mouth and hands to arouse his body. He wrapped his hands around her waist when she mounted him at last. Quickly Ross realized that she intended to have control as she kept him to a slow rhythm, thwarting his desire for speed.

A chest deep groan escaped Ross when he finally came and he arched upward, driven by the intensity. Eyes still closed, Ross lay on the bed as Silver kissed him and dismounted. He felt a mouth on him and let McQueen clean him up before opening his eyes.

"Murder, pure murder. Is that your plan?"

"Ah, you guessed. We planned to murder you by an over abundance of sex." McQueen grinned before leaning over and kissing Ross. "She's soaking so if you want to rest for a few mikes..."

Ross grabbed McQueen and kissed him hard, enjoying the taste of himself and Silver. "Sounds like a grand idea, Ty." He caressed McQueen's jaw and sighed. "Damn, I waited too long."

"No, Glen. You didn't. I wouldn't have been truly ready for you before now. I would never have fully trusted you again. But it's different now. I've learned enough, I've changed enough. Our friendship won't suffer for any physical activities we do. I love you, Glen, as my first, best friend."

"That will have to do. I love you too, Ty. Not enough to marry you, but..."

McQueen gently kissed Ross. "Good enough. Now rest."

"Not a problem."

McQueen waited until Ross' eyes closed before heading for the bathtub. He joined Silver in the hot water. "He's resting."

"Good." Silver lay stretched out in the water, only her head out. "Last hand, I think. He needs some serious rest."

"Yes. He'll probably sleep for a good ten hours."

"With any luck. That would leave him still plenty of time to relax and enjoy himself."

McQueen moved over beside Silver. "Lysa, I love you. Thank you for what you're doing with Glen. I appreciate the time you're taking with him."

"Not a problem. Now, why don't you relax somewhat, too?" Silver sat up and pulled McQueen's head down onto her shoulder. "Stop worrying about things. Just relax."

After ten minutes, Silver woke McQueen gently. "All right, sleepy head. Let's get out and wake up Glen. It's time for the last round. If you're up to it."

"Oh, I'm up for it. I just hope Glen is." McQueen rose to his feet and held out his hand to Silver. He pulled her up and kissed her again. "I hope you never get tired of hearing this, but I love you."

"Not a chance. The same goes for you." She wrapped her arms around his chest. "Just touching you makes me want you. But we'll have plenty of time when we retire to our room."

"I have to sleep sometime," joked McQueen stepping out of the tub.

"Eventually." The sparkle in her eyes told him she was kidding. She joined him and reached past him to get a towel.

Unable to resist the opportunity handed him, McQueen cupped one of her breasts in his hand, kneading gently. "Even I have my limits."

"I know, love." She wrapped the towel around his shoulders and started drying him off. "If sleeping is what's on your mind when we retire to our room, then sleep you may."

Grabbing another towel, McQueen returned the favor. "I don't know if I want to wait until we get to our room, Lysa."

"Think you'll have enough energy for both?" She crouched and started running the towel down his legs, breathing softly on him.

"I'll find out." He tossed the towel on the floor and pulled her up.

Fifteen minutes later, she led him out into the bedroom, laughing. "God, you're fantastic, Ty."

Ross opened his eyes and guessed at what the other two had been up to. "Not getting enough, Ty?"

"None of your business, Glen." McQueen crossed the room and kissed Ross. "Consider it a down payment on what's to come."

"I'm not sure if I should be worried about that statement or not." Ross sat up. "How long did I sleep?"

"Roughly half an hour. Feel better?" asked Silver.

"Yes."

"Good." She grabbed her clothes and started dressing.

Sliding off the bed, Ross followed suit, watching the other two dress.

The game under way, Ross knew he was in trouble as Silver started winning steadily. A shiver went down his spine when he realized the only combination that hadn't yet happened.

"Glen?"

Cursing McQueen's sharp eyes, Ross waved the question aside, concentrating on his cards. He did not know if he would be able to follow through, but he intended to try. It was only fair.

The point came when Ross knew he could not win and neither could McQueen. He looked at Silver. "Are we playing after this round?"

"No."

"Then I'm conceding defeat." He laid his cards face down on the table. "I can not win and neither can Ty. So, rather than draw this out, I declare you the winner."

"Sure about this?"

"Yes."

"Why now?"

"Because I have a pretty good idea what is going to happen and I'd rather not continue to wait. I'm nervous enough as it is." Ross met both of their gazes steadily. "I might not be able to go through with it if I keep waiting for it."

"Fair enough." Silver nodded to McQueen. "It's your show."

"I thought it was yours," said Ross.

"I'm letting him orchestrate it."

"Glen, are you ok with this?" asked McQueen as he stood up.

"Yes." Ross rose and faced McQueen. "What do you want me to do?"

"Why don't you lie down so that you can take a drink." McQueen watched as his friend marched over to the bed and lay down, hands folded on his stomach, tenseness throughout his dark body. "Relax, Glen. We'll take it nice and easy."

That seemed to calm Ross down slightly, and some of his tension eased.

Silver sat down beside him and extended her bleeding wrist. Once he'd taken several swallows and closed his eyes, she left the bed and moved away, allowing McQueen to sit down beside him.

Gently at first, exploring, McQueen ran his fingers over the dark, quiet form. As Ross became aroused, McQueen used his mouth, licking and sucking, nibbling, seeking to divert his friend's mind from the ultimate goal. He kissed him and sat back nearly twenty minutes later, pleased with his progress. The lube was cool as he coated his fingers liberally.

"Just relax, Glen. I want you to tell me immediately if anything hurts, or even starts to hurt. This is supposed to be pleasurable. Ok?"

"Yes. Just get on with it." Ross tried to relax his body. He achieved a semblance of it by reminding himself that McQueen wouldn't hurt him deliberately. "Oh, Ty," Ross said as he felt the lube touching his skin.

McQueen looked at him.

"Forget about that spanking."

McQueen chuckled. "Not to worry on that score, Glen. It has nothing to do with this."

"Good."

Taking his time, McQueen worked until three fingers moved freely inside Ross. The occasional deep throating ensured that Ross didn't tighten up. Ready to continue, McQueen kissed him once more.

"Ready?"

"If you don't get started, Ty, I'm going to fucking kill you!" growled Ross, writhing from the strength of his arousal. Reaching up, Ross grabbed McQueen, pulling him down for a hard kiss. "Now, get started, dammit!"

Despite the obvious impatience, McQueen took his time, watching carefully for any sign of pain. He waited a moment once he was fully buried, running his hands over the sweating form beneath him and up the tight thighs resting against his body.

"Bloody hell, Ty! Don't keep me waiting."

A wicked grin and McQueen obeyed.

"Oh, god, Ty! What you're doing to me!" Ross arched upward at the intense sensations.

"And I'm only getting started."

McQueen proceeded to teach his friend what it was like to be on the receiving end. Using the lessons learned from Griffin, he drove his friend to the edge and then down again several times. He finally took pity and started them both down the road to finishing. Ross came hard, his back arched, and sobbing with the strength of it. That took McQueen over the edge.

Sinking down onto his elbows, McQueen sighed and gently kissed Ross. "Are you ok?"

A jerky nod answered him.

McQueen pulled away and stood up. "Come on, Glen. Let's get you cleaned up properly." He held out his hand and gripped Ross firmly, aiding him to his feet. "I know you're tired. I promise after we leave, you can sleep all you want."

Beside him, Ross had reached the end of his strength. He stumbled along, held up by McQueen, sinking gratefully into the still hot water. As they cleaned him up, he could barely keep his eyes open. Through the drying off and the walk back to the bed, he let them control his movements. He sank onto the bed, burrowing into the pillow, feeling the blankets being drawn up over him. He never heard the two dress or leave.

Shutting their room door behind him, McQueen yawned. "I think Glen has the right idea, Lysa."

"Then get in bed." Silver pushed him toward the bed. She turned him around and unbuttoned his shirt. As she slid the shirt off his shoulders, Silver said, "I enjoyed that immensely." His pants quickly followed. "How about you?"

Clad only in his shorts, shoes and dog tags, McQueen grinned. "Oh, definitely." Another yawn caught him and he smiled ruefully. "And as much as I would enjoy continuing, I need sleep." He sat on the bed and slipped off the shoes. "He wanted to know if we could expand our friendship to include the physical."

"And you said?" Silver started to unbutton her blouse.

"That we would see." McQueen tossed the shoes to the side, out of the way.

"Good answer." She stepped out of her slacks and draped both the slacks and blouse over a chair. The one-piece fabric bra landed on the uniform, followed by her shorts and panties. Her shoes she left under the chair.

McQueen watched critically as she stretched, looking for any sign that the traumatic damage done to her body over the last several months still existed. Her movements were smooth, graceful, and deadly. Another yawn popped his ears and he ruefully acknowledged that there was no way he could continue. "How can you still be moving?" he asked, snuggling down under the sheets.

"Practice." Silver stretched out beside McQueen, smiling gently at him. "Go to sleep, love."

"You too."

She rose several hours later, hungry for more than food. She dressed quickly and quietly, not wanting to wake McQueen. The door closed behind her silently as she entered the corridor. A quick inquiry of the ship's computer told her where to look for the shared quarters of Russell, St. John, and Finch. But she figured that they wouldn't be there. Knowing them, they were immersed in a game of cards somewhere. She headed for the first likely place.

Instead of her three, Silver found Hawkes. He spotted her and rose from his lonely seat. She approached, realizing he wanted to talk.

"Do you want a drink?" Hawkes asked as she sat down.

"Yes, but not what you're asking." Silver smiled softly. "Something seems to be troubling you, Hawkes."

"Well..." He stared down at his beer.

Silver glanced around the small bar. None of the other members of the 58th were around. "Why are you here alone?"

"West and 'Phousse went to play basketball. Vansen is shooting pool. St. John and Finch are off somewhere. Russell left a little bit ago."

"Leaving you alone."

Hawkes nodded once, his gaze still on his glass. "I don't want to look for..." His voice dropped low. "Sex."

"And no one in the 5-8 is willing to spend time with you right now."

"That and..."

Silver saw Hawkes' cheeks flush. "Would you like to talk somewhere more private?"

"Please."

"Do you have a private room?"

"Yes." Hawkes rose and left his beer behind as he led the way out of the bar.

In the small set of rooms rented to him, Hawkes let Silver take the only chair while he sat on the bed, staring at his hands.

Silver waited a moment. Then when he didn't start talking, she prompted him. "Ok, what's up, Coop?"

"Did the colonel tell you what happened the night before we came to get you?" His voice remained low, anxious.

"No."

"Um, he found us in the shower together. Me, Russell, Finch and St. John. We were-"

"I know what you were doing. Yes, he did mention to me, just not when it was."

"Well, when he was leaving, Russell said that the colonel needed to get laid. I decided to follow up on the idea."

"Ah... That could lead to complications."

"I know. But he... he needed it." Hawkes looked anxiously up at her.

"I don't doubt it."

"But, I've been remembering it."

Silver leaned back and closed her eyes. "You know, Coop, somehow I knew you were going to be my problem child." Shaking her head and chuckling softly, Silver looked at him and said, "Remembering and acting it out aren't enough now?"

Hawkes shook his head, the chestnut hair sliding seductively across the broad shoulders.

"I think you're talking to the wrong colonel, Coop."

"I can't talk to him about this!"

"Why not? You just did to me."

"But you're not him!"

"Coop, you better get this dealt with now. Our squadron is never going to be under standard military rules, not as long as I'm here. Some bending of the rules can be done, but you have to talk to him about it."

"But he's marrying you!"

"Coop, I'm not tying him down to just me. I can't do that with a clear conscience. And if you're serious about what you've suggested, you have to talk to him, and you're never going to get a better chance than while we're here. In fact, come with me, Hawkes." Silver rose and her tone of command got him to his feet.

"Colonel, I can't!"

"Yes, you can. Now come on, Hawkes. The sooner you do this, the better all around."

Like a beaten puppy, Hawkes followed Silver through the corridor to her room. She pushed him into the room and stepped in, closing the door. Her hand on his lower back, she steered him over to a chair by McQueen's side of the bed and set him down in it.

"Stay."

McQueen murmured as she sat on the bed.

Stroking his cheek, Silver said, "Wake up, Ty."

Snapping awake, McQueen's hand gripped her wrist briefly before releasing her. "What's wrong?"

His concern evident, Silver smiled gently. "Nothing's wrong per se. Just you need to do a father-son talk." She gestured toward Hawkes, who tried to make himself small.

"What did you do, Hawkes?" he sighed.

"It's not what he did, Ty, it's what he needs to do. He needs to talk to you, in several ways, partly as a lieutenant and partly as a younger man to an older man. "

She fixed her gaze on Hawkes. "I'm going to ask him later and you better get this straightened out before I return. Or I will do it. Understand?"

Hawkes nodded quickly.

"Good. I'll leave you two alone for now." Silver disappeared out the door.

McQueen sat up, wondering what the hell was going on. He raked his hand through his hair and glanced over at Hawkes. The younger Invitro sat, staring at his clasped hands, head bowed, body rigid. "What is going on, Hawkes? "

"I started to talk to her, but she said I had to talk to you." Hawkes hunched his body even further.

"What about?" McQueen snapped, irritated by the evasive answer and the fact that he was naked under the bed covers with no way to get dressed. Not the way to hold an important conversation with a subordinate.

"Me.... and.... you," came the slow whispered words.

McQueen blinked, unsure he had heard the words correctly, and then he understood why Silver had not come in beforehand to wake him up. "Damnation, Hawkes!" He slammed his head back against the wall, furious with himself for not seeing the possibility earlier.

A glance at Hawkes and McQueen saw him flinch. "I'm not angry with you, Hawkes. I should have seen the outcome myself. But I needed it so damn badly, I didn't think ahead."

"I'm sorry, sir."

"No, I'm the one who's sorry. It was my responsibility." McQueen frowned to himself.

"She said, that as long as she is with the squad, certain rules could be bent," ventured Hawkes softly.

McQueen closed his eyes, knowing what was coming and wondering if he really wanted to head it off. The memory of Hawkes magnificently sculpted body under his hands surfaced, sidelining rational thought somewhat. Body reacting to the image, McQueen knew that he'd have to do something about the situation. If he shouldered Hawkes aside cold, things could get very ugly, very fast. Hawkes still had a lot of growing emotionally to do. On the other hand, if he allowed this, he had to ensure that it didn't influence the military side of things. He was the commanding officer and Hawkes had to learn to separate the two issues.

Realizing that he had already made his decision, McQueen turned to face Hawkes, letting the bed covers fall. "First things first, Coop. The ground rules."

Slowly Hawkes raised his head and the blue eyes glistened. Blinking rapidly, Hawkes nodded.

His voice stern, McQueen said, "Sex between us, or between Silver and either of us has absolutely nothing to do with the military part of things. You remember what I said in the cave when we fetched Silver?"

"Yes, sir. We still need to respect your rank and obey. That you'll chew us out if we deserve it. That's fair."

McQueen nodded slightly. "The same goes sexually, but even more so. Just because I have sex with you before a mission or after does not mean I won' rip you a new one if you screw up. Nothing, but nothing, is going to interfere with getting the mission done, and that includes sex between any members of this squad. Do I make myself clear?"

"Yes, sir." Hawkes was sitting upright, eyes glued to McQueen's.

"Any freedoms allowed during sex are not allowed elsewhere. Outside of sexual situations, you will continue to treat all members of this squad with the respect they deserve."

"Yes, sir."

"No matter how things are working out emotionally between people in this squad, they must continue to work together as a team. Silver and I lead, the rest of you follow."

"Yes, sir."

Gentling his voice somewhat, McQueen said, "And, Hawkes, no matter how things fall out between people in this squad, never go on a mission angry with one of the others. Always make peace beforehand. Ok?"

"Yes, sir."

"Now get out of that flight suit and show me what else you've learned from Silver's rascals, Coop."

"Yes, TC!"

As Hawkes ran firm hands over his chest, McQueen lowered himself back onto the bed, wondering how much he would be able to handle. "Be warned, Coop, I pretty much exhausted myself with an interesting poker game. Wiped me out, physically."

"We'll see."

Hawkes proved he had learned quite a bit. McQueen felt his body responding to the exquisitely light touches and the roaming mouth. When Hawkes raised his head from McQueen's shoulder, McQueen pulled him down for a kiss, pleased by the response Hawkes gave.

"Ready when you are," whispered Hawkes, gazing down at McQueen with a knowing smile.

"The night stand."

With practiced motions, Hawkes applied the lubricant to McQueen. "Where do you want me?"

"Right here. I'm staying on my back and letting you do the work."

Hawkes blinked, then grinned before straddling McQueen. "Ready?"

"When you are."

Watching that well developed body easing down on him, feeling so damned good, made McQueen growl in his throat. He ran his hands up the smooth belly, down the hard working thighs, and teased the twitching cock with light strokes.

Hawkes flung his head back, moaning softly, keeping to a steady rhythm with difficulty as McQueen touched him. "Oh, man, that feels so good!"

McQueen chuckled, fully enjoying the sight of Hawkes over him. A light sheen of perspiration appeared and he reached up to rub his thumb over a nipple.

A shudder went through Hawkes so he did it again, another shudder coursed through Hawkes. One hand on Hawkes' chest and the other teasing the hard cock, he played with the young body.

Hawkes moaned, drowning in the sensations. The combination proved too much for him and he felt his body climaxing. "'I'm-"

Seeing and feeling Hawkes muscles clenching, he covered the tip of Hawkes' cock with his hand, not ready for another shower. He knew his body was too tired to finish the job when he didn't climax with Hawkes.

Hawkes dropped down onto his hands, head hanging low, and his hair brushing McQueen's face. After a moment, he gazed into McQueen's eyes. "You haven't..."

"Warned you, Coop. I think seven is just a bit much to expect in such a short time frame." He cupped the younger Invitro's cheek with his clean hand. "Now, why don't you go clean up and then come back and do the same for me?" A yawn escaped him.

Hawkes nodded and pulled free. In minutes, he was back with a warm washcloth. McQueen slept, shifting slightly as Hawkes handled him, but never waking fully. Before pulling the bed covers up, Hawkes took the time to admire the exhausted form on the bed, drinking in the sight of the hard body, the scars still fading from his chest. He sat and watched McQueen sleep, keeping to Silver's side of the bed, out of reach in case he inadvertently woke him.

Silver returned from satisfying her hunger two hours later. She smiled on seeing Hawkes, slumped in the chair, sleeping. Shaking his shoulder, she said softly, "Wake up, Coop."

Snapping awake, Hawkes straightened up.

"I take it the talk went well. Now, out. He's mine. Go sleep in your room. And spend time with the rest of the squad."

"Yes, ma'am." Hawkes rose and rapidly left the room.

Stripped down to skin, Silver slid into bed behind McQueen and spooned around him, content. She felt him shift, pressing against her and closed her eyes, settling down for some more sleep. McQueen was hers alone for the rest of the stay.

Next : Chapter Fifteen
Previous : Chapter Thirteen
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