![[personal profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/user.png){kind=small}
SG AU Part 6
There ya go *g*
------
*Somehow* they managed to get through breakfast without any incidents. They had no trouble convincing the Senator that they should stay in and simply order something from a nearby deli or cafe. The old man wasn't too keen on having his newly assaulted son walking around in the open. Jack couldn't agree more.
The only problem was, what the hell he was supposed to do with Daniel himself. Normally, functioning as a bodyguard, he'd just fall back, fade into the background, stay close but not too close to the client. And he could've pulled it off, if not for Daniel.
When Jack had instantly kept his distance, Daniel had seemed to understand. Now, a few hours later, Jack was sure the Senator would eventually call them on it, as Daniel's eyes kept drifting towards Jack, who did what he could to keep a straight face. And Daniel seemed to take it personally, as a hurt expression flickered across his face. God knew Jack wanted nothing more than to slide down on the couch next to the man, and even if it did seem... sappy, hold his hand, put an arm around his shoulder, kiss him.
Had anyone asked afterwards how they had gotten through it without giving everything away, Jack honestly had no idea. The Senator was a busy man, so once breakfast was over, he pulled Daniel aside, holding a whispered conversation with him for several minutes. Then he waved Jack over. The few yards across the room felt to Jack as if he was walking to his own execution.
"I can not stress this enough, Mr. O'Neill, I will do anything to keep my only son alive." Taking a deep breath, the man put a hand on Jack's shoulder. "I expect nothing less of you."
Jack nodded briskly. Damned, did he know? Did he at least *suspect*? Or was he just being a little... emotional from nearly losing his son? Damned if Jack knew, but he did what he could to keep a certain physical distance to Daniel, who in turn seemed to, unconsciously, seek nearness instead, which led to a strange shuffling pattern of moving around the apartment.
Before Daniel's father left, he shot Daniel a warning look, only slightly ruined by the softening around his eyes, as he embraced his son.
"Just remember what I said, Daniel," his father warned him.
Daniel's face lit with the blush as he refused to meet his father's eyes for a moment. The he looked up, defiance burning in his eyes. "I will, Father, don't worry."
The door was finally closed and Daniel leaned back against it, eyes closed. "Three hours..." he muttered.
Jack sighed with relief. Somehow, against all odds, they'd managed to get through the visit without...
"Three *hours*, Jack."
Jack looked away from the window and carefully watched his lover push away from the door. "Three fucking hours." Daniel suddenly moved, fast, across the room, vaulting over the back of the low couch, aiming for Jack, who stood frozen to the spot for a moment, but then it was already too late. He didn't make it more than a few steps across the elevated part of the floor, in front of the floor to ceiling window, before Daniel tackled him.
They hit the floor a little harder than intended, but neither man seemed to care. Daniel's one-track-mindedness got Jack out of his shirt in no time, and Jack tore until he found enough bare skin to satisfy him at least for a little while.
Jack laughed breathlessly as Daniel worked his jeans open and down around Jack's thighs, then with a growl Jack returned the favour. Rolling over, Jack pinned Daniel to the floor, looking down into the dark eyes of his lover. "Mine," he whispered, before swooping in for a bruising kiss.
Jack's obvious control seemed to only make Daniel hotter, breathing becoming laboured, body arching and somehow they couldn't spare a thought as to what they were doing, both caught up in the moment. Pressing against each other, they began moving, adjusting their rhythm until they moved in perfect unison, bodies sliding against each other, cocks trapped between them, skin slick with sweat. Lips seemingly glued together, they rocked against each other, Daniel finally tearing away, letting go of Jack, slamming his fists into the floorboards, screaming Jack's name.
Even though Jack was caught up in the moment, the impact of Daniel's orgasm, and the whispered words of love beneath him stunned him back to reality. He slowed his movements, gentling the tremors running through Daniel. He was close to the edge himself, but it wasn't important.
Kissing Daniel's lips softly, he stilled their movement. "Daniel?" he whispered in a low voice.
"Ye-yeah?" sighed the man.
"You okay?" Jack was a little taken aback, tasting salty wetness as he kissed Daniel's face.
"I just... Jack, I..." Daniel's voice was thick with emotion. "Please understand, this isn't just some insane need for... for sex." Daniel closed his eyes for a moment before continuing, barely audible. "I think... no, I *know* I love you."
Jack's breath caught in his throat. How he wanted to believe those words. But how? They'd hardly know each other for more than a couple of days, and with someone as passionate as Daniel, how could Jack be sure? Oh, sure, Daniel may think he meant it, but what if...? Jack swallowed his doubts and leaned down to claim the slightly swollen lips in a soft kiss, not truly ready to say it himself, he knew he had to ease Daniel's mind, that he felt the same way.
"J-Jack?" Daniel gasped when they pulled apart.
"Me too, kid, me too." Jack hated himself for a moment, for not being able to voice his feeling, for feeling the doubt spread like some dark decease inside him.
Daniel seemed to be content with that much at least, and Jack was pulled back down for another searing kiss. He rolled them around, pushing Jack down on his back. Daniel stayed, sitting on his knees, one hand braced on the floor, the other possessively spread on Jack's abs.
With a quiet grin, Daniel leaned forward, hand still on Jack, and swiped his tongue over the head of Jack's cock.
Moaning deep in his throat, Jack leaned his head back and closed his eyes. The sensation of the hot, wet mouth, slowly sliding down over him was enough, at least for a while, to silence his doubts. Jack gasped as Daniel's tongue pressed against his cock and Daniel began sucking harder.
Without giving it a second thought, Jack opened his eyes and found Daniel's body, curled up next to him. Reaching out, Jack coaxed the other man into laying on his side, allowing Jack access to Daniel's bared groin. Already a mess from his first orgasm and sticky with come, the heated skin beckoned for Jack to taste, to run his tongue over it.
Daniel's breathing became laboured, and Jack licked a little more. It wasn't the worst he'd ever tasted. A little bitter maybe, perhaps from the insane amounts of coffee Daniel consumed. Licking his lips, Jack decided he rather liked it.
The moan Daniel made, sent vibrations through Jack's cock and for a moment Jack wasn't sure he could hold back for much longer. Biting his lip, Jack fought the sensation, wanting it to last for as long as possible. Forcing his concentration back to his lover, Jack began licking Daniel clean, feeling the shivers running through Daniel's body. Nuzzling the base of Daniel's cock, Jack couldn't believe that the guy was already semi-erect again. A little more nuzzling and mouthing of the tip filled the erection fully and Jack could feel the blood pumping below the tight skin.
Burying his face again, Jack wrapped an arm around Daniel's hip, holding him closer, holding him still. He knew his stubble had to be chafing the delicate skin, but Daniel didn't seem to mind. If anything, he pushed lightly against Jack as if he really did like it.
Jack finally pulled back a little before swallowing Daniel down. After only a moment, they seemed to find a perfect rhythm, and for a little while they lost all connection to the real world. Jack felt heat coiling at the base of his spine and wanted to warn Daniel, but the younger man simply tightened his grip on Jack's hips and when Jack found his release, Daniel willingly swallowed it and kept it up until Jack couldn't give more. Then Daniel let him slip from his lips and buried his face in Jack's groin, letting out a soft moan.
Meanwhile Jack worked at riding out the waves of pleasure coursing through him and he wouldn't give less than he got, so he reached out and ran a finger across Daniel's thigh, feeling the muscles tremble under it. The bitter substance filling his mouth forced Jack to swallow as fast as possible. Breathlessly Jack mirrored his lover, and buried his face in the heat of Daniel's body.
"Shower?" rasped Jack. He could hardly recognise his own voice, raw with emotion and he felt the heat pressing behind his eyes, but he refused to give into it. It was ridiculous. He had to enjoy this while it lasted. He couldn't let the feeling, that they would have a hell of a lot of obstacles to tackle if they continued their relationship, go entirely.
Daniel mumbled his agreement before getting to his feet, offering Jack a hand up. Jack took it and allowed himself to fall into the sated look of the blue eyes.
Cleaning each other off, lazily exploring one another, the shower took some time. Still, Jack felt a sting of longing, as he felt it was over far too soon. Then again, Daniel took his shoulders and gently manoeuvred Jack over to the tub, folding up a towel on the edge and seating Jack on it.
"What...?" Jack's voice trailed off as Daniel slowly and sensually lathered up Jack's face, waving the shaver under his nose. "Told you I wanted to do this." Pushing Jack's thighs apart to stand closer, Daniel put a finger under Jack's chin and tilted his head back a little. "Now shush, enjoy it."
The slow strokes of the blade lulled Jack into a state in between. His senses picked up only one thing. Daniel. The scent, the feel of him standing in front of Jack, the loving touches, fingers moving reverently across Jack's skin. And if Daniel picked up on the tears escaping Jack's shut eyes, he didn't say anything -- and for that Jack was more than grateful. Wrapping his arms loosely around Daniel's waist, Jack finally allowed himself the luxury of believing, if for a start, only a little bit. Maybe, just maybe he could really have this. Maybe he owed that to himself and to Daniel.
---------
"Daniel, dammit, we're gonna be late!" Jack zipped his jeans after having made sure the gun was in place in the thigh-holster.
"We'll be there in good time, Jack," Daniel answered, his reply muffled as he pulled his shirt down over his head.
Jack rolled his eyes and tried to stay annoyed without much success. He knew very well what a silly grin he was sprouting. Daniel looked *good* in those slacks and the tight Tee. "Mine," he mock-growled as he grabbed a handful of ass passing his younger lover. Seriously, he'd have liked to be at the park in good time to survey the lay of the land, so to speak.
"Ja-ack," Daniel pouted. "Don't start something we haven't got the time to finish."
"Aw, come on, Daniel, I have to behave and keep my hands to myself for the rest of the afternoon." Jack still felt a pang of worry, but squashed it ruthlessly. He'd promised himself he'd make an effort.
"Well, I have to keep my hands to myself as well, Jack." Daniel grinned widely as he grabbed his keys and followed Jack out the door. Slipping his hands down into Jack's back-pockets, making it difficult to walk straight for the both of them.
Jack laughed and threw up his hands in despair, then outside the door, he twisted free of his lover and turned around, pulling him into a sudden, fierce hug.
Daniel snuggled closer. When Jack finally let go, he turned to lock the door behind them, then turned back and put a hand on Jack's arm. "What was that for?"
Jack felt heat rise to his face. He'd never been good at communicating his feelings to anyone, at least not in words. "Just... don't ever change, Doc."
Daniel blinked in surprise, then, as they made their way towards the elevator, a sappy grin spread on his face as he pushed his shades up his nose. "You're a keeper, Colonel, a definite keeper."
"Oh?" Jack felt smug. Well, he was going to keep Daniel anyway, and pity anyone who'd think otherwise. So his fears and angst could just go curl the fuck up and die.
"Anyone I've ever met, even been with." Daniel paused as he stepped inside the elevator. "Well, they've always tried to change one or more things about me, about my personality."
As the elevator did a stop at the next floor and a young couple stepped inside, the two men made room for them, standing closer, hands easily straying to brush wrists and arms. Nothing elaborate, only simple reassuring gestures.
Jack caught the look the girl gave her boyfriend, as she tried not to be to obvious about looking over her shoulder at them. Jack's smile grew smug and he slipped his arm around Daniel's waist. Yep, he was one lucky old bastard, all right, anyone else could look but not touch, and he didn't mind terribly if people envied him what he currently had.
Daniel didn't seem to mind terribly as he leaned against Jack with a soundless sigh. Exiting behind the couple, Jack drew Daniel aside, his demeanour growing serious. "Daniel?"
"Mmm?" Daniel stayed close to him, but his eyes were focused on Jack, his attention almost scary.
"When we get out in public, would you mind terribly..." Jack hesitated, searching for the right words. "Would you mind not touching me?" He ran his hand through his hair. "It's just..."
Daniel grinned at him, a gleam in his eyes. "You need to concentrate, gotcha."
Jack blinked in surprise. He'd expected a comment like 'don't touch me in public' would have meant him explaining just why. Then again, Daniel *did* pick up on a lot of things without letting it show. Obviously.
Daniel gave him a smile and a lifted eyebrow before exiting the building, though he did let Jack walk in front of him, and Jack was more than grateful that after yesterday's events, Daniel had seen the light and gotten on the clue bus about the threats being very, very real. The cab they'd called was waiting for them and they got in without exchanging any words. Not that they had to. In very short time Jack had grown to love the banter, but he loved their easy, contented silence even more.
The drive took surprisingly short time, considering the traffic, and they got out at the entrance closest to the podium set up for the rally. Jack fell back as Daniel went to talk to the organisers, to make sure what he was supposed to do and where to be when. Jack paid attention to most of it. He needed to know as well as Daniel what would be going on. That settled, Daniel stayed with the woman who'd given him the update on things, chatting about this and that and Jack zoned out their conversation, eyes gliding over every part of the place he could see.
People were already settling in on the grass, some standing, but most sitting on blankets or simply on the ground, a constant static in the air of voices. Looked like the expected 1,000 people wouldn't hold. Closer to 1,500, maybe more. Jack frowned. He sincerely hoped nothing would happen.
"Colonel?"
Jack turned around, slowly, a wide disbelieving smile on his face. "Feretti?"
The younger man came to stand at attention in front of Jack, a stiff text-book salute delivered with a barely concealed grin.
"Lose the salute, Feretti, retired, remember?" Jack took the proffered hand, shaking it with heartfelt joy. He hadn't seen the man in years, but apart from a few more lines on his face, he looked like he had the last time Jack had seen him. On the day he'd retired, Feretti and the boys paying him their respects. Man, that had been one *hell* of a hangover.
Jack felt more than saw the presence at his shoulder. Ah, right on cue. "Lou, this is Dr. Jackson, Doc, Lou Feretti." Jack quirked a smile. "Is that Captain?"
Lou grinned proudly, as he straightened his pose. "Major now, Colonel." He took Daniel's hand and shook it with a warm smile. "Pleased to meet you, Doc, and how the hell did you run into such bad luck as having to drag the Colonel around?"
Daniel sighed theatrically. "It's tough job, but someone's gotta do it?"
Feretti blinked in surprise, then laughed out loud, fully losing it when Jack shot him a withering stare. Typical, the two men would get along perfectly, at Jack's expense, obviously.
Lou looked over his shoulder as a woman waved and called his name. He turned back to Jack and Daniel, with an apologetic smile. "I'm gonna have to run, my sister's here." He nodded, addressing Daniel. "Nice to meet you, Doc -- since we're here to partly hear your speech." He shot another look over his shoulder. "You were a great help last summer when you counselled my sister -- can't say the family's too thrilled, but I'm glad to see her happy."
Daniel, smiled back. "Always happy to help, Mr. Feretti."
"Lou, it's Lou," Feretti grinned. He began walking towards his sister. "And Colonel, don't be a stranger -- you still have my phone number -- and you still owe me a drink."
Jack nodded absentmindedly. "Counselled?" he asked Daniel.
Daniel grinned back. "You never once asked what I do for a living, you know."
Jack opened his mouth to ask exactly that question, but was interrupted as the woman Daniel had spoken to when they'd arrived waved them over, before walking up to the microphone to open the event.
Daniel winked at Jack before moving to stand below the stage, waiting for his cue.
Jack frowned, but there wasn't time for him to begin questioning Daniel about anything. He hadn't for a moment questioned what Daniel did for a living. Not that it mattered, but still.
Jack's attention was drawn to the woman who was currently going on about gay rights. Jack sighed. As bad as it was, at least real life was nothing like the military. Couldn't get court-martialled in real life. Then again, you could get hurt pretty badly there as well.
"...which is why we've invited Dr. Jackson to speak here today. He works for state, as a psychiatrist specialising in young people and sexuality issues, specifically homosexuality."
Jack blinked, mouthing 'shrink?' and raising an eyebrow at Daniel, who in turn quirked a grin and mouth back: 'PhD'. But from what Jack knew, Daniel had an education as a linguist. Lifting an eyebrow of his own, Jack mouthed 'linguist?' and Daniel's grin grew wider, as he repeated the 'PhD'.
Well, shit, trust Jack O'Neill to fall for a freaking genius. As Daniel stepped up unto the stage, and Jack followed silently behind, Jack realised he'd have to be careful and that the feeling he'd had that Daniel picked up on more than he let on. Well, he probably did, had to, with a brain like that.
Jack kept his attention on the crowd, weighing what he saw, assessing whether or not it posed a threat and moved on. There were of course police guards stationed at the rally, considering the size and nature of the gathering, trouble would be expected. Someone always had to try and ruin a good cause. Jack listened with half an ear to his lover's speech. He couldn't afford to turn his attention fully to Daniel, knowing he'd have trouble concentrating on little else. And he couldn't afford that, Daniel couldn't afford it.
The crowd applauded as Daniel paused. He was doing real good, looking confident and serious as he continued to list the problems of a homosexual identity, in the modern day and age. Society often taught that it was unnatural, wrong even to consider it a sin. Thus resulting in alarmingly many cases of especially younger people feeling caught in the middle of what they wanted to have and what would out them to society. As open as they could talk about it in a city like New York, as difficult it often proved to be when living in smaller areas, where social life was dependent on the perception of other people, on accept.
Jack took another sweep of the crowd and frowned as he noticed another familiar face. Whazzisname... John. Jack raised an eyebrow as he made eye contact with the man, giving him a warning glare. Jack didn't like that the man stood as close to the stage as he did, but it might just be possessiveness and jealousy speaking there.
Daniel's speech was nearing its end and Jack tensed up a little. If anyone were to make a move of any kind, the opportunity was now. Jack didn't particularly like the *click* from the gathered press, but that was clearly his jealousy speaking. Jack wasn't sharing with anyone, if he had anything to say in the matter.
Finally, Daniel ended his speech with a few sweet lines about how life was too short and precious to bet hung up on a minor thing like gender.
The crowd applauded him and Daniel grinned widely, getting ready to step down from the stage. Jack clenched his teeth when a few hands from the gathered journalists prevented that. The longer Daniel stayed still, out in the open like that, the more dangerous it became.
"Dr. Jackson, are you planning on following in your father's footsteps and running for senator at some point?"
Daniel sniggered before answering. "I doubt it. I might be able to work a few changes, but at the moment I feel I'm doing more good as a counsellor."
Jack suppressed a smile. He couldn't imagine anyone not eventually wanting to lay their hearts and hurts in the hands of Daniel.
"Dr. Jackson, are you going to ask your father to work for a change in the law regarding homosexual partnership, marriage and adoption?"
Daniel continued to smile. "I can't do that. If my father feels he can do anything, and it doesn't go against his principles, he will work for a change in the law. It's his choice, not mine."
"That said, Dr. Jackson, a personal question?"
Daniel nodded.
"How does your own father fell about your sexual orientation?"
Daniel bit his lip, but his smile never wavered. "We came to terms with the family problems years ago -- I, unlike some, am blessed with a family who, well, doesn't always understand, but who will always take an effort in at least trying to."
"Another personal question, Dr. Jackson?"
Daniel agreed. "Sure, but let's make this the last one, I'm not the only who's here to hold a speech." There was a general murmur of amusement. No, of course not, Jack mused, since there was the official representative from the Mayor's office who had yet to speak.
"Is there currently someone in your life, Dr. Jackson?"
Daniel smirked, the grin growing wider, yet he said nothing.
Jack felt heat curl in his body. Right, no one could doubt the unsaid words, the look on Daniel's face said it all.
Then suddenly, the proverbial shit hit the fan. Something hit the stand, making wooden splinters fly. Jack was John step forward, to suddenly jerk as something hit him, blood tainting his white shirt. That was all Jack saw before he flung himself at Daniel, bearing the other man to the ground. Pain blossomed in his upper arm, and Jack didn't have to think about it. He knew that pain, recognised it. Still, he didn't have time feeling sorry for himself, as he covered Daniel's tense body with his own.
The next minutes felt like hours as a hush went through the crowd. No one had heard shots being fired, and everyone was trying to guess what had just happened.
"Jack...?" Daniel sounded... scared, shaken, but determined to keep his wits.
"You okay, Daniel?" Jack winced when Daniel's hand brushed over his arm. He gripped Daniel's wrist when the man moved his hand up to stare with fear at the sticky, red blood.
"Jack...?" The normally strong voice sounded so small and insecure and Daniel's body shook as his eyes pleaded with Jack to tell him everything was going to be okay.
"It's okay, Daniel, it's okay, it's just a flesh wound." Jack tried to soothe his lover while at the same time he wanted nothing more than to get up and get the bastard who'd tried to kill the man he loved. But he'd leave it to the police, shouldn't get in the way and besides, his first and foremost responsibility was Daniel. Jack rolled off Daniel and motioned for him to stay flat and move towards the back edge of the stage. It wouldn't be safety, but it would at least provide *some* cover.
When they landed on the grass, they stayed crouched low, as a police officer crawled over to check on them. Seconds became minutes as they waited for more shots. None came and the people gathered on the grass in front of the stage hadn't even had the time to panic. Most of them were still wondering what had just happened.
A shout caught their attention, and Jack peeked up over the edge of the stage, finally daring to stand when he saw the sweetest sight possible. Well, apart from the man tugging at his hand to get him back down, of course.
"Lou?" Jack's voice was calm and carried without any problems to the man who was currently stomping towards the stage, one hand holding a man in an painful grip, the other holding up a gun with a silencer.
The police officers moved towards him, gesturing for Feretti to put down the gun. Jack told Daniel with one look to stay put and moved forward to aid his friend. "It's okay, he's with us."
Feretti glared angrily at the man he was holding, and kept it up as the officers took over. "I got him, Colonel, the bastard was trying to get away."
"You did good, Major." Jack smiled grimly at his old friend.
"You're hurt, Colonel." Lou frowned.
"Nothing serious." Jack shrugged, winced at the pain it caused.
"Nothing?!" Daniel's walk as he came towards them spoke volumes. He looked so angry he was practically shaking. "Nothing?" He reached out for Jack, fingers skimming the older man's shoulder, torn between giving them away, and needing to assure himself that Jack was still there, still alive.
Jack shook his head, eyes softening. "It'll heal, Daniel, it always does." He held out his unscathed arm, amazed that Daniel took the cue immediately and carefully accepted the embrace, slipping his arms around Jack's waist.
Lou chuckled and Jack shot him a lazy glare. "What?"
"I guess that answers the personal question."
Jack frowned, then remembered the question from the journalists. Aw, hell, if Daniel didn't mind anyone knowing, who was he to argue? It wasn't as if he was in the military anymore. And they'd caught the man with the gun, they were surrounded by police -- he could let his guard down a little.
"Congratulations, Colonel." Lou lit up into a smile.
"Thanks, Lou," Jack said dryly, but still couldn't help answering the smile with one of his own.
-----
TBC
the previous parts can be found here
------
*Somehow* they managed to get through breakfast without any incidents. They had no trouble convincing the Senator that they should stay in and simply order something from a nearby deli or cafe. The old man wasn't too keen on having his newly assaulted son walking around in the open. Jack couldn't agree more.
The only problem was, what the hell he was supposed to do with Daniel himself. Normally, functioning as a bodyguard, he'd just fall back, fade into the background, stay close but not too close to the client. And he could've pulled it off, if not for Daniel.
When Jack had instantly kept his distance, Daniel had seemed to understand. Now, a few hours later, Jack was sure the Senator would eventually call them on it, as Daniel's eyes kept drifting towards Jack, who did what he could to keep a straight face. And Daniel seemed to take it personally, as a hurt expression flickered across his face. God knew Jack wanted nothing more than to slide down on the couch next to the man, and even if it did seem... sappy, hold his hand, put an arm around his shoulder, kiss him.
Had anyone asked afterwards how they had gotten through it without giving everything away, Jack honestly had no idea. The Senator was a busy man, so once breakfast was over, he pulled Daniel aside, holding a whispered conversation with him for several minutes. Then he waved Jack over. The few yards across the room felt to Jack as if he was walking to his own execution.
"I can not stress this enough, Mr. O'Neill, I will do anything to keep my only son alive." Taking a deep breath, the man put a hand on Jack's shoulder. "I expect nothing less of you."
Jack nodded briskly. Damned, did he know? Did he at least *suspect*? Or was he just being a little... emotional from nearly losing his son? Damned if Jack knew, but he did what he could to keep a certain physical distance to Daniel, who in turn seemed to, unconsciously, seek nearness instead, which led to a strange shuffling pattern of moving around the apartment.
Before Daniel's father left, he shot Daniel a warning look, only slightly ruined by the softening around his eyes, as he embraced his son.
"Just remember what I said, Daniel," his father warned him.
Daniel's face lit with the blush as he refused to meet his father's eyes for a moment. The he looked up, defiance burning in his eyes. "I will, Father, don't worry."
The door was finally closed and Daniel leaned back against it, eyes closed. "Three hours..." he muttered.
Jack sighed with relief. Somehow, against all odds, they'd managed to get through the visit without...
"Three *hours*, Jack."
Jack looked away from the window and carefully watched his lover push away from the door. "Three fucking hours." Daniel suddenly moved, fast, across the room, vaulting over the back of the low couch, aiming for Jack, who stood frozen to the spot for a moment, but then it was already too late. He didn't make it more than a few steps across the elevated part of the floor, in front of the floor to ceiling window, before Daniel tackled him.
They hit the floor a little harder than intended, but neither man seemed to care. Daniel's one-track-mindedness got Jack out of his shirt in no time, and Jack tore until he found enough bare skin to satisfy him at least for a little while.
Jack laughed breathlessly as Daniel worked his jeans open and down around Jack's thighs, then with a growl Jack returned the favour. Rolling over, Jack pinned Daniel to the floor, looking down into the dark eyes of his lover. "Mine," he whispered, before swooping in for a bruising kiss.
Jack's obvious control seemed to only make Daniel hotter, breathing becoming laboured, body arching and somehow they couldn't spare a thought as to what they were doing, both caught up in the moment. Pressing against each other, they began moving, adjusting their rhythm until they moved in perfect unison, bodies sliding against each other, cocks trapped between them, skin slick with sweat. Lips seemingly glued together, they rocked against each other, Daniel finally tearing away, letting go of Jack, slamming his fists into the floorboards, screaming Jack's name.
Even though Jack was caught up in the moment, the impact of Daniel's orgasm, and the whispered words of love beneath him stunned him back to reality. He slowed his movements, gentling the tremors running through Daniel. He was close to the edge himself, but it wasn't important.
Kissing Daniel's lips softly, he stilled their movement. "Daniel?" he whispered in a low voice.
"Ye-yeah?" sighed the man.
"You okay?" Jack was a little taken aback, tasting salty wetness as he kissed Daniel's face.
"I just... Jack, I..." Daniel's voice was thick with emotion. "Please understand, this isn't just some insane need for... for sex." Daniel closed his eyes for a moment before continuing, barely audible. "I think... no, I *know* I love you."
Jack's breath caught in his throat. How he wanted to believe those words. But how? They'd hardly know each other for more than a couple of days, and with someone as passionate as Daniel, how could Jack be sure? Oh, sure, Daniel may think he meant it, but what if...? Jack swallowed his doubts and leaned down to claim the slightly swollen lips in a soft kiss, not truly ready to say it himself, he knew he had to ease Daniel's mind, that he felt the same way.
"J-Jack?" Daniel gasped when they pulled apart.
"Me too, kid, me too." Jack hated himself for a moment, for not being able to voice his feeling, for feeling the doubt spread like some dark decease inside him.
Daniel seemed to be content with that much at least, and Jack was pulled back down for another searing kiss. He rolled them around, pushing Jack down on his back. Daniel stayed, sitting on his knees, one hand braced on the floor, the other possessively spread on Jack's abs.
With a quiet grin, Daniel leaned forward, hand still on Jack, and swiped his tongue over the head of Jack's cock.
Moaning deep in his throat, Jack leaned his head back and closed his eyes. The sensation of the hot, wet mouth, slowly sliding down over him was enough, at least for a while, to silence his doubts. Jack gasped as Daniel's tongue pressed against his cock and Daniel began sucking harder.
Without giving it a second thought, Jack opened his eyes and found Daniel's body, curled up next to him. Reaching out, Jack coaxed the other man into laying on his side, allowing Jack access to Daniel's bared groin. Already a mess from his first orgasm and sticky with come, the heated skin beckoned for Jack to taste, to run his tongue over it.
Daniel's breathing became laboured, and Jack licked a little more. It wasn't the worst he'd ever tasted. A little bitter maybe, perhaps from the insane amounts of coffee Daniel consumed. Licking his lips, Jack decided he rather liked it.
The moan Daniel made, sent vibrations through Jack's cock and for a moment Jack wasn't sure he could hold back for much longer. Biting his lip, Jack fought the sensation, wanting it to last for as long as possible. Forcing his concentration back to his lover, Jack began licking Daniel clean, feeling the shivers running through Daniel's body. Nuzzling the base of Daniel's cock, Jack couldn't believe that the guy was already semi-erect again. A little more nuzzling and mouthing of the tip filled the erection fully and Jack could feel the blood pumping below the tight skin.
Burying his face again, Jack wrapped an arm around Daniel's hip, holding him closer, holding him still. He knew his stubble had to be chafing the delicate skin, but Daniel didn't seem to mind. If anything, he pushed lightly against Jack as if he really did like it.
Jack finally pulled back a little before swallowing Daniel down. After only a moment, they seemed to find a perfect rhythm, and for a little while they lost all connection to the real world. Jack felt heat coiling at the base of his spine and wanted to warn Daniel, but the younger man simply tightened his grip on Jack's hips and when Jack found his release, Daniel willingly swallowed it and kept it up until Jack couldn't give more. Then Daniel let him slip from his lips and buried his face in Jack's groin, letting out a soft moan.
Meanwhile Jack worked at riding out the waves of pleasure coursing through him and he wouldn't give less than he got, so he reached out and ran a finger across Daniel's thigh, feeling the muscles tremble under it. The bitter substance filling his mouth forced Jack to swallow as fast as possible. Breathlessly Jack mirrored his lover, and buried his face in the heat of Daniel's body.
"Shower?" rasped Jack. He could hardly recognise his own voice, raw with emotion and he felt the heat pressing behind his eyes, but he refused to give into it. It was ridiculous. He had to enjoy this while it lasted. He couldn't let the feeling, that they would have a hell of a lot of obstacles to tackle if they continued their relationship, go entirely.
Daniel mumbled his agreement before getting to his feet, offering Jack a hand up. Jack took it and allowed himself to fall into the sated look of the blue eyes.
Cleaning each other off, lazily exploring one another, the shower took some time. Still, Jack felt a sting of longing, as he felt it was over far too soon. Then again, Daniel took his shoulders and gently manoeuvred Jack over to the tub, folding up a towel on the edge and seating Jack on it.
"What...?" Jack's voice trailed off as Daniel slowly and sensually lathered up Jack's face, waving the shaver under his nose. "Told you I wanted to do this." Pushing Jack's thighs apart to stand closer, Daniel put a finger under Jack's chin and tilted his head back a little. "Now shush, enjoy it."
The slow strokes of the blade lulled Jack into a state in between. His senses picked up only one thing. Daniel. The scent, the feel of him standing in front of Jack, the loving touches, fingers moving reverently across Jack's skin. And if Daniel picked up on the tears escaping Jack's shut eyes, he didn't say anything -- and for that Jack was more than grateful. Wrapping his arms loosely around Daniel's waist, Jack finally allowed himself the luxury of believing, if for a start, only a little bit. Maybe, just maybe he could really have this. Maybe he owed that to himself and to Daniel.
---------
"Daniel, dammit, we're gonna be late!" Jack zipped his jeans after having made sure the gun was in place in the thigh-holster.
"We'll be there in good time, Jack," Daniel answered, his reply muffled as he pulled his shirt down over his head.
Jack rolled his eyes and tried to stay annoyed without much success. He knew very well what a silly grin he was sprouting. Daniel looked *good* in those slacks and the tight Tee. "Mine," he mock-growled as he grabbed a handful of ass passing his younger lover. Seriously, he'd have liked to be at the park in good time to survey the lay of the land, so to speak.
"Ja-ack," Daniel pouted. "Don't start something we haven't got the time to finish."
"Aw, come on, Daniel, I have to behave and keep my hands to myself for the rest of the afternoon." Jack still felt a pang of worry, but squashed it ruthlessly. He'd promised himself he'd make an effort.
"Well, I have to keep my hands to myself as well, Jack." Daniel grinned widely as he grabbed his keys and followed Jack out the door. Slipping his hands down into Jack's back-pockets, making it difficult to walk straight for the both of them.
Jack laughed and threw up his hands in despair, then outside the door, he twisted free of his lover and turned around, pulling him into a sudden, fierce hug.
Daniel snuggled closer. When Jack finally let go, he turned to lock the door behind them, then turned back and put a hand on Jack's arm. "What was that for?"
Jack felt heat rise to his face. He'd never been good at communicating his feelings to anyone, at least not in words. "Just... don't ever change, Doc."
Daniel blinked in surprise, then, as they made their way towards the elevator, a sappy grin spread on his face as he pushed his shades up his nose. "You're a keeper, Colonel, a definite keeper."
"Oh?" Jack felt smug. Well, he was going to keep Daniel anyway, and pity anyone who'd think otherwise. So his fears and angst could just go curl the fuck up and die.
"Anyone I've ever met, even been with." Daniel paused as he stepped inside the elevator. "Well, they've always tried to change one or more things about me, about my personality."
As the elevator did a stop at the next floor and a young couple stepped inside, the two men made room for them, standing closer, hands easily straying to brush wrists and arms. Nothing elaborate, only simple reassuring gestures.
Jack caught the look the girl gave her boyfriend, as she tried not to be to obvious about looking over her shoulder at them. Jack's smile grew smug and he slipped his arm around Daniel's waist. Yep, he was one lucky old bastard, all right, anyone else could look but not touch, and he didn't mind terribly if people envied him what he currently had.
Daniel didn't seem to mind terribly as he leaned against Jack with a soundless sigh. Exiting behind the couple, Jack drew Daniel aside, his demeanour growing serious. "Daniel?"
"Mmm?" Daniel stayed close to him, but his eyes were focused on Jack, his attention almost scary.
"When we get out in public, would you mind terribly..." Jack hesitated, searching for the right words. "Would you mind not touching me?" He ran his hand through his hair. "It's just..."
Daniel grinned at him, a gleam in his eyes. "You need to concentrate, gotcha."
Jack blinked in surprise. He'd expected a comment like 'don't touch me in public' would have meant him explaining just why. Then again, Daniel *did* pick up on a lot of things without letting it show. Obviously.
Daniel gave him a smile and a lifted eyebrow before exiting the building, though he did let Jack walk in front of him, and Jack was more than grateful that after yesterday's events, Daniel had seen the light and gotten on the clue bus about the threats being very, very real. The cab they'd called was waiting for them and they got in without exchanging any words. Not that they had to. In very short time Jack had grown to love the banter, but he loved their easy, contented silence even more.
The drive took surprisingly short time, considering the traffic, and they got out at the entrance closest to the podium set up for the rally. Jack fell back as Daniel went to talk to the organisers, to make sure what he was supposed to do and where to be when. Jack paid attention to most of it. He needed to know as well as Daniel what would be going on. That settled, Daniel stayed with the woman who'd given him the update on things, chatting about this and that and Jack zoned out their conversation, eyes gliding over every part of the place he could see.
People were already settling in on the grass, some standing, but most sitting on blankets or simply on the ground, a constant static in the air of voices. Looked like the expected 1,000 people wouldn't hold. Closer to 1,500, maybe more. Jack frowned. He sincerely hoped nothing would happen.
"Colonel?"
Jack turned around, slowly, a wide disbelieving smile on his face. "Feretti?"
The younger man came to stand at attention in front of Jack, a stiff text-book salute delivered with a barely concealed grin.
"Lose the salute, Feretti, retired, remember?" Jack took the proffered hand, shaking it with heartfelt joy. He hadn't seen the man in years, but apart from a few more lines on his face, he looked like he had the last time Jack had seen him. On the day he'd retired, Feretti and the boys paying him their respects. Man, that had been one *hell* of a hangover.
Jack felt more than saw the presence at his shoulder. Ah, right on cue. "Lou, this is Dr. Jackson, Doc, Lou Feretti." Jack quirked a smile. "Is that Captain?"
Lou grinned proudly, as he straightened his pose. "Major now, Colonel." He took Daniel's hand and shook it with a warm smile. "Pleased to meet you, Doc, and how the hell did you run into such bad luck as having to drag the Colonel around?"
Daniel sighed theatrically. "It's tough job, but someone's gotta do it?"
Feretti blinked in surprise, then laughed out loud, fully losing it when Jack shot him a withering stare. Typical, the two men would get along perfectly, at Jack's expense, obviously.
Lou looked over his shoulder as a woman waved and called his name. He turned back to Jack and Daniel, with an apologetic smile. "I'm gonna have to run, my sister's here." He nodded, addressing Daniel. "Nice to meet you, Doc -- since we're here to partly hear your speech." He shot another look over his shoulder. "You were a great help last summer when you counselled my sister -- can't say the family's too thrilled, but I'm glad to see her happy."
Daniel, smiled back. "Always happy to help, Mr. Feretti."
"Lou, it's Lou," Feretti grinned. He began walking towards his sister. "And Colonel, don't be a stranger -- you still have my phone number -- and you still owe me a drink."
Jack nodded absentmindedly. "Counselled?" he asked Daniel.
Daniel grinned back. "You never once asked what I do for a living, you know."
Jack opened his mouth to ask exactly that question, but was interrupted as the woman Daniel had spoken to when they'd arrived waved them over, before walking up to the microphone to open the event.
Daniel winked at Jack before moving to stand below the stage, waiting for his cue.
Jack frowned, but there wasn't time for him to begin questioning Daniel about anything. He hadn't for a moment questioned what Daniel did for a living. Not that it mattered, but still.
Jack's attention was drawn to the woman who was currently going on about gay rights. Jack sighed. As bad as it was, at least real life was nothing like the military. Couldn't get court-martialled in real life. Then again, you could get hurt pretty badly there as well.
"...which is why we've invited Dr. Jackson to speak here today. He works for state, as a psychiatrist specialising in young people and sexuality issues, specifically homosexuality."
Jack blinked, mouthing 'shrink?' and raising an eyebrow at Daniel, who in turn quirked a grin and mouth back: 'PhD'. But from what Jack knew, Daniel had an education as a linguist. Lifting an eyebrow of his own, Jack mouthed 'linguist?' and Daniel's grin grew wider, as he repeated the 'PhD'.
Well, shit, trust Jack O'Neill to fall for a freaking genius. As Daniel stepped up unto the stage, and Jack followed silently behind, Jack realised he'd have to be careful and that the feeling he'd had that Daniel picked up on more than he let on. Well, he probably did, had to, with a brain like that.
Jack kept his attention on the crowd, weighing what he saw, assessing whether or not it posed a threat and moved on. There were of course police guards stationed at the rally, considering the size and nature of the gathering, trouble would be expected. Someone always had to try and ruin a good cause. Jack listened with half an ear to his lover's speech. He couldn't afford to turn his attention fully to Daniel, knowing he'd have trouble concentrating on little else. And he couldn't afford that, Daniel couldn't afford it.
The crowd applauded as Daniel paused. He was doing real good, looking confident and serious as he continued to list the problems of a homosexual identity, in the modern day and age. Society often taught that it was unnatural, wrong even to consider it a sin. Thus resulting in alarmingly many cases of especially younger people feeling caught in the middle of what they wanted to have and what would out them to society. As open as they could talk about it in a city like New York, as difficult it often proved to be when living in smaller areas, where social life was dependent on the perception of other people, on accept.
Jack took another sweep of the crowd and frowned as he noticed another familiar face. Whazzisname... John. Jack raised an eyebrow as he made eye contact with the man, giving him a warning glare. Jack didn't like that the man stood as close to the stage as he did, but it might just be possessiveness and jealousy speaking there.
Daniel's speech was nearing its end and Jack tensed up a little. If anyone were to make a move of any kind, the opportunity was now. Jack didn't particularly like the *click* from the gathered press, but that was clearly his jealousy speaking. Jack wasn't sharing with anyone, if he had anything to say in the matter.
Finally, Daniel ended his speech with a few sweet lines about how life was too short and precious to bet hung up on a minor thing like gender.
The crowd applauded him and Daniel grinned widely, getting ready to step down from the stage. Jack clenched his teeth when a few hands from the gathered journalists prevented that. The longer Daniel stayed still, out in the open like that, the more dangerous it became.
"Dr. Jackson, are you planning on following in your father's footsteps and running for senator at some point?"
Daniel sniggered before answering. "I doubt it. I might be able to work a few changes, but at the moment I feel I'm doing more good as a counsellor."
Jack suppressed a smile. He couldn't imagine anyone not eventually wanting to lay their hearts and hurts in the hands of Daniel.
"Dr. Jackson, are you going to ask your father to work for a change in the law regarding homosexual partnership, marriage and adoption?"
Daniel continued to smile. "I can't do that. If my father feels he can do anything, and it doesn't go against his principles, he will work for a change in the law. It's his choice, not mine."
"That said, Dr. Jackson, a personal question?"
Daniel nodded.
"How does your own father fell about your sexual orientation?"
Daniel bit his lip, but his smile never wavered. "We came to terms with the family problems years ago -- I, unlike some, am blessed with a family who, well, doesn't always understand, but who will always take an effort in at least trying to."
"Another personal question, Dr. Jackson?"
Daniel agreed. "Sure, but let's make this the last one, I'm not the only who's here to hold a speech." There was a general murmur of amusement. No, of course not, Jack mused, since there was the official representative from the Mayor's office who had yet to speak.
"Is there currently someone in your life, Dr. Jackson?"
Daniel smirked, the grin growing wider, yet he said nothing.
Jack felt heat curl in his body. Right, no one could doubt the unsaid words, the look on Daniel's face said it all.
Then suddenly, the proverbial shit hit the fan. Something hit the stand, making wooden splinters fly. Jack was John step forward, to suddenly jerk as something hit him, blood tainting his white shirt. That was all Jack saw before he flung himself at Daniel, bearing the other man to the ground. Pain blossomed in his upper arm, and Jack didn't have to think about it. He knew that pain, recognised it. Still, he didn't have time feeling sorry for himself, as he covered Daniel's tense body with his own.
The next minutes felt like hours as a hush went through the crowd. No one had heard shots being fired, and everyone was trying to guess what had just happened.
"Jack...?" Daniel sounded... scared, shaken, but determined to keep his wits.
"You okay, Daniel?" Jack winced when Daniel's hand brushed over his arm. He gripped Daniel's wrist when the man moved his hand up to stare with fear at the sticky, red blood.
"Jack...?" The normally strong voice sounded so small and insecure and Daniel's body shook as his eyes pleaded with Jack to tell him everything was going to be okay.
"It's okay, Daniel, it's okay, it's just a flesh wound." Jack tried to soothe his lover while at the same time he wanted nothing more than to get up and get the bastard who'd tried to kill the man he loved. But he'd leave it to the police, shouldn't get in the way and besides, his first and foremost responsibility was Daniel. Jack rolled off Daniel and motioned for him to stay flat and move towards the back edge of the stage. It wouldn't be safety, but it would at least provide *some* cover.
When they landed on the grass, they stayed crouched low, as a police officer crawled over to check on them. Seconds became minutes as they waited for more shots. None came and the people gathered on the grass in front of the stage hadn't even had the time to panic. Most of them were still wondering what had just happened.
A shout caught their attention, and Jack peeked up over the edge of the stage, finally daring to stand when he saw the sweetest sight possible. Well, apart from the man tugging at his hand to get him back down, of course.
"Lou?" Jack's voice was calm and carried without any problems to the man who was currently stomping towards the stage, one hand holding a man in an painful grip, the other holding up a gun with a silencer.
The police officers moved towards him, gesturing for Feretti to put down the gun. Jack told Daniel with one look to stay put and moved forward to aid his friend. "It's okay, he's with us."
Feretti glared angrily at the man he was holding, and kept it up as the officers took over. "I got him, Colonel, the bastard was trying to get away."
"You did good, Major." Jack smiled grimly at his old friend.
"You're hurt, Colonel." Lou frowned.
"Nothing serious." Jack shrugged, winced at the pain it caused.
"Nothing?!" Daniel's walk as he came towards them spoke volumes. He looked so angry he was practically shaking. "Nothing?" He reached out for Jack, fingers skimming the older man's shoulder, torn between giving them away, and needing to assure himself that Jack was still there, still alive.
Jack shook his head, eyes softening. "It'll heal, Daniel, it always does." He held out his unscathed arm, amazed that Daniel took the cue immediately and carefully accepted the embrace, slipping his arms around Jack's waist.
Lou chuckled and Jack shot him a lazy glare. "What?"
"I guess that answers the personal question."
Jack frowned, then remembered the question from the journalists. Aw, hell, if Daniel didn't mind anyone knowing, who was he to argue? It wasn't as if he was in the military anymore. And they'd caught the man with the gun, they were surrounded by police -- he could let his guard down a little.
"Congratulations, Colonel." Lou lit up into a smile.
"Thanks, Lou," Jack said dryly, but still couldn't help answering the smile with one of his own.
-----
TBC
the previous parts can be found here
no subject
BB
Re:
Always happy to make the mornings more bearable ^_~
no subject
Re:
just one more part to go *g*