Fic: If You Can't Stand the Heat
Title: If You Can’t Stand the Heat.
Rating: R
Summary: The day Esca arrived at his dorm only to find it filled with noxious black smoke and his brand new cookware in ruins, he knew something had to be done.
Word Count: 18,000ish
Notes: Modern day college AU. This fic was inspired by this prompt at the_eagle_kink. I took it in my own direction, and it kind of veered away from the prompt. I had a lot of fun and a lot of frustration writing it, but it turned out alright in the end. :D Many thinks to dizilla and nikki4noo for the beta and support!
It all started the afternoon Esca came back to the dorm and caught the scent of doom. Well, it smelled like doom anyway, an intense burning tinged with a heavy tang of metal. He could smell it all the way down the hall, and vaguely wondered if a frustrated computer science major was offering up their laptop as a sacrifice for good grades.
But the smell grew stronger the closer he came to his own dorm and a sinking feeling had him almost running the last few feet, throwing the door open. The room was filled with clouds of smoke, the scorched metal smell so strong that Esca gagged and then coughed. An answering cough came from the direction of the kitchen, along with a vicious sizzling, sending up another plume of steam.
“Marcus?” he called.
“Esca?” his roommate called back, desperately, from somewhere within the cloud.
“Are you trying to burn down the place?” Esca stumbled a bit as he took another step into the room.
“Nothing’s on fire, I just...I can’t see you,” Marcus called back from within the cloud.
“I wonder why,” Esca said. He moved in the direction of the window, grateful that they were the last unit in the building and had a window in their common space. He fumbled with the latch, sending a relieved thank you to any and all deities when it opened and fresh air rushed into the room.
“Marcus, what is going on?” he called into the smoke, grabbing a magazine off the coffee table and flapping it up and down in an attempt to clear the room.
“I don’t know!” Marcus cried, a pot rattling in the sink as he coughed again. “I was just trying to make dinner.”
“What?” Esca called in disbelief, trying to make his way across the room toward the kitchen area. “Why?”
“A little help, first?” Marcus said, his voice closer now.
“Ow!” Esca yelled, his face connecting suddenly with one of Marcus’ flailing hands.
“God, I’m sorry,” Marcus said, reaching out and finding Esca as the air began to clear, his hands gripping Esca’s arms and holding him upright. “I was trying to clear the air.”
“I’ve opened the window,” Esca said, holding his nose tenderly. “Now what the hell is going on here?”
“I may have burned something?”
“May have?” Esca replied, incredulous. “I think we’ve gone past hypothetical here, Marcus.”
“I don’t know how it happened, honestly,” Marcus said, his face, now that Esca could see it, was pale and blotchy, from the heat or panic or both, Esca didn’t know. It should not have been attractive, but then again, Esca had long passed the point where he was surprised at finding Marcus attractive. He was always attractive, no matter how he looked.
“Let me see,” Esca said, shrugging out of Marcus’ grip and braving the mess in the sink.
“No,” he groaned when he spotted the smoking remains of one of his Lagostina pots. He had saved up to buy the set before moving into the dorms, and had hoped they would last him the next 25 years or more. No such luck, apparently.
“You are so buying me a new pot,” he snarled at Marcus, who, to his credit, was looking rather sheepish.
“Of course, yes, any one you want,” Marcus replied, rubbing the back of his neck nervously.
Esca picked up the pot gingerly. The formerly smooth stainless steel surface was blackened, though he couldn’t tell what, if anything, had burnt onto it. It was warped as well, and Esca had a suspicion that he knew what had happened to it.
“Marcus, how did this happen?” he asked, looking pointedly at his roommate, who was still rubbing at his neck, looking adorably chastised. Damn him.
“I put some water on to boil,” Marcus said simply, dropping his hand and shoving it into his pocket, along with the other one. “Uncle made me promise to eat better, instead of just take out all the time, so I was going to make some pasta.”
Esca sighed, closing his eyes and praying for strength. “And then?” he asked, opening them to the sight of Marcus blushing and clearing his throat before continuing.
“And then it was taking forever, and I remembered hearing somewhere that a watched pot never boils.”
“So you left it,” Esca finished for him.
“I just thought I’d get some work done,” Marcus said defensively. “And I got to chatting with Axel online and he issued a challenge and...” he trailed off, but Esca could fill in the blanks.
“And you ended up hacking into one of your games and pulling some kind of prank,” he stated.
“Hey, it was a good one,” Marcus said, a cheeky grin forming on his face. “I hacked into the game and introduced a few ‘glitches’,” he said, complete with air quotes. “It created a perpetual treasure drop, it was epic.” He was grinning fully now, eyes sparkling with mischief and Esca couldn’t help but smile back. A little. He coughed and cleared his head, schooling his expression into one of disdain.
“And how long did this prank of epic proportions take, exactly?” he asked, only feeling a tiny bit regretful as the smile dropped from Marcus’ face.
“I’m not sure, maybe half an hour?”
“Long enough for the water to evaporate and the pot to warp and burn under the heat,” Esca said, shaking his head at Marcus’ absent mindedness. He wasn’t irresponsible in general, and he certainly wasn’t dim...in fact, Marcus was probably the smartest person Esca knew, but once he placed his focus on something, the world could come crashing down around him and he wouldn’t know the difference.
“I suppose,” Marcus answered, nodding. “There was smoke and some kind of cracking noise when I got back, so I figured that I’d better cool it down right away, yeah? So I tossed the pot in the sink and-”
“Turned on the water,” Esca said, completing the thought. “Hence all the steam, not to mention all the warping. Marcus, you never pour cold water into a pan that is hot, especially as hot as it would have to be after burning dry for who knows how long.”
“Yeah, I uh, I realized that after I did it, and...oh god Esca, I’m so sorry. I’m not a total idiot, I swear,” Marcus began, but Esca cut him off with a raised hand.
“I know you’re not, you’re just a sheltered rich kid with too much money and little to no common sense,” Esca said, enjoying the look of indignation that flashed over Marcus’ face.
“I have common sense,” Marcus insisted, brows furrowed. “I just don’t have any experience in the kitchen.”
“Clearly,” Esca said. “Why were you trying to cook anyway? Since when do you follow your uncle’s every command?” Esca turned, wetting the dishcloth and trying to clean up the mess on the countertop, turning off the burner that was still pumping out heat, and activating the fan on the range hood.
“I know, but he actually had a good point this time. I can’t keep eating take out forever, it’s just not healthy.”
“Since when are you worried about being healthy?” Esca pointed out, putting the ruined pot on a cool burner for later disposal. “You’ve never been too concerned about it before.”
It was true, Marcus didn’t pay much attention to his diet and activity levels, not in the months since Esca had known him. He was a big guy, well built but trim, broad shoulders and well muscled arms, a tight ass and strong legs. Not that Esca had noticed. Much. But Marcus did spend a lot of time sitting in front of his computer and was always dead to the world when Esca got up to run every morning. Late night hacking and gaming had led to him almost being late for more than one class.
“Well, I’ve never had to be before,” Marcus pointed out. “I always played football in high school, and ran for the track team, and we did a lot of snowboarding on weekends, stuff like that,” Marcus said, pulling another cloth out of the drawer and helping Esca wipe the condensation from the counters and walls in the kitchen. “But I’ve been so busy since school started that I won’t be able to get out on weekends and I’m not here to play sports, so I’ve lost that option too.”
“You could always run with me in the mornings,” Esca offered, only half hoping that he’d accept. Marcus with bed head, workout clothes and a sheen of sweat on his bare skin could prove too much for Esca’s shoddy self control. They still had a whole year of living in close quarters ahead of them.
“And have to get up at the ass-crack of dawn? No thanks,” Marcus scoffed, his face screwed up with disgust at the suggestion. “I’d rather stop eating junk and buy a treadmill. At least I could still watch my shows while I run.”
“Where are you going to put one in here?” Esca asked, gesturing to the common area. It was a square room with just enough space for a couch (brand new, purchased by Marcus to replace the beat-up one the room had come with), coffee table, and television stand (containing all Marcus’ media equipment). A small round table with two chairs for eating and studying was wedged into the corner beside the kitchen area, and one desk under the window, opposite the table, where Esca kept his laptop. Marcus’ computer and related paraphernalia were in his bedroom, much to Esca’s relief, as it was quite a mess most of the time. How Marcus kept anything organized was a mystery to him, the way he left things lying around. Growing up with servants didn’t make for a very fastidious roommate.
“I’ll figure something out,” Marcus said, his eyes flickering across the space. “But I still can’t keep relying on take-out, I’ll be fat and greasy in no time.” Marcus shuddered at the thought, making Esca suspect, not for the first time, that he might not be as straight as the girls in their shared business management classes presumed.
“Yes, that would be a tragedy indeed,” Esca commented dryly, bracing himself on the counter and giving Marcus a blatant once over before quirking an eyebrow at him. Marcus turned back to the sink, but Esca was certain he saw a flush rise up Marcus’ neck and onto his cheeks, making Esca’s heart pound and his palms sweat. He closed his eyes and reminded himself again of all the reasons why he shouldn’t make a pass at his roommate. Uncertainty about Marcus’ sexuality was fading as they got to know each other better, but there were many other reasons to take its place.
“You know how to cook, right?” Marcus asked, bringing Esca’s attention back to the present. He had rinsed out his dishcloth and squeezed out the water while Esca had been distracted, though the sight of his strong hands draping the cloth over the faucet didn’t do much to help Esca focus.
“I get by,” Esca said, wondering where Marcus was going with this line of questioning. If he suggested that Esca cook for him, Esca might have to tear him a new one, no matter how fetching his ass was in those wool dress slacks he favored. Marcus was an epic study in contrasts, slobby and entitled and prone to marathon sessions on the couch or his computer chair, as much a geek as anyone Esca had ever met. And yet, when he attended classes he was always impeccably turned out in slacks, dress shirts and occasionally a blazer. Esca had even seen him sporting a sweater vest once, though he never wished to again. Marcus’ shoulders had been accentuated under the knit wool of the garment far too nicely for Esca’s peace of mind. Although the jeans and t-shirts he wore on the weekends weren’t much better, they always fit a bit too snugly, drawing Esca’s attention to his chest and legs, ass and shoulders, just as efficiently as his dressier clothes did.
Marcus was the simplest and most incomprehensible person Esca had ever known. It was fascinating.
“Why do you ask?” Esca ventured, narrowing his eyes at the pleading look on Marcus’ face.
“Maybe you could teach me?” Marcus asked, affecting his best puppy dog look. A look that was far too effective, what with his wide green eyes and full lips. Esca swallowed.
“Can’t you pay someone to teach you?” Esca asked, knowing that he’d end up agreeing and dreading the time spent with Marcus in a hot, cramped kitchen space, night after night and, inevitably, on weekends.
“I could, but then I could pay someone to cook for me too,” Marcus pointed out. “I’d like to learn myself, and I want to do it here, not take some class at the community center or something. I’ll pay you, if you like,” he added.
Esca considered it for a second before shaking his head. “Don’t be ridiculous. I’ll teach you to cook, as long as you buy all the groceries. And a new pot,” he said, throwing his cloth in the sink and giving Marcus a considering look. “And whatever else I might need.”
“Sure, no problem,” Marcus agreed eagerly. “We can go shopping this weekend, yeah?”
“If you like,” Esca said, nodding. “But now it’s time for your first lesson, boiling water.”
“Starting now?” Marcus asked.
“Can you think of a better time? You’ll never forget this lesson, I guarantee it,” Esca said, gesturing toward the cupboard. “Now grab me another pot and fill it up.”
Marcus did as he was told, while Esca continued to give instructions. “First, it may seem like a watched pot never boils, but it’s all in your head. It’ll boil when it’s good and ready. Don’t leave the room though, there’s other things you can do while we wait for the water. Like make the sauce...”
**
“What are we cooking tonight?” Marcus asked as soon as Esca entered the room the next evening. He looked like an eager puppy and it was so adorable that Esca’s annoyance at being ambushed was fading.
“I’m not sure, let me have a look,” Esca said. “But first let me get in the door, will you?”
“Sure, yeah,” Marcus said, throwing himself on the couch and propping his feet on the coffee table as Esca took off his bag and piled his things on his desk.
“Eager much?” he asked as he took his coat off. Marcus grinned up at him, making Esca’s stomach flip.
“Well, the pasta turned out so well, I’m really looking forward to cooking something else,” Marcus replied. “Considering my first attempt, it was quite the success.”
“Yes well, you should never cook without supervision, that’s for sure,” Esca said with a snort.
“Not yet, anyway,” Marcus agreed. “I would have burnt the place down without your help.”
“No doubt,” Esca said. “Right then, let’s have a look.” He rummaged around in the fridge, thinking about what he’d picked up when he went shopping several days earlier.
“What have we got?” Marcus asked, bending down to peer into the fridge with Esca, his nearness heating Esca’s back in direct contrast to the coolness of the fridge.
“Chicken,” Esca said, taking the package out and holding it behind him for Marcus to take.
“Great,” Marcus said, thankfully standing up and giving Esca some room. “What else?”
“Uhh, how about rice? And broccoli?” Esca grabbed a bag out of the vegetable crisper, closing the fridge behind him.
“Sounds good,” Marcus agreed, putting the chicken on the counter and waiting for Esca’s direction.
“Right, so this meal is all about timing. But first, wash your grubby paws, boy,” he directed, joining Marcus at the sink to wash. They only had a single sink in the tiny space, so they crowded together, shoulder to shoulder, their hands bumping under the stream as they lathered and rinsed. Marcus finished first, stepping away from the sink to dry his hands, leaving Esca to breath a sigh of relief. Marcus smelled really good, as always. His hygiene habits made up for his sloth-like behaviour, but normally Esca was able to avoid too much close contact.
“So timing,” Marcus said, handing Esca the towel and then opened the cupboard to get out the rice. “Rice first, then?” he asked, holding up the box.
“Yup. Get out the smallest pot and put, oh...two cups of water on to boil, yeah?” Esca nodded toward the compact stove as he pulled out a cutting board and a knife. “And watch it this time.”
“Yeah, you’re funny,” Marcus said, but his tone was light and a small smiled adorned his face, matching the one Esca wore.
“When you’ve done that, you can get another pot for the broccoli,” Esca began, but he stopped, thinking. “Never mind that,” he continued. “Come over here and chop this, you need the practice.”
“Sure,” Marcus said, setting the pot of water on the burner and turning it on. “I imagine you’ve chopped your fair share of broccoli.”
“You imagine right,” Esca said, getting the broccoli pot himself, and grabbing a pan for the chicken as well. “Hopefully, you’ll catch the knack too.”
“Well, I’ve got a great teacher,” Marcus said, his gaze focused on the vegetables he was chopping.
“Darn right,” Esca stated, passing Marcus the pot. They worked quietly for a few minutes, Marcus finishing the broccoli and Esca prepping the seasoning for the rice.
“All done,” Marcus said, cleaning up the counter, much to Esca’s pleasure. He’d had a few strong words for Marcus the day before, about cleaning up after himself in the kitchen.
“You can keep your room as slobby as you want, and I don’t even mind if it spills out here sometimes,” he’d said, giving Marcus his sternest glare. “But you’ll keep this kitchen clean, or I won’t teach you anything more, got it?”
Marcus had nodded sheepishly, and he had cleaned everything up without any prompting from Esca. It was nice to see that Marcus had taken the rule to heart.
“Nice to see you cleaning up,” Esca said, earning a smile from Marcus that had Esca’s heart thumping.
“I don’t want to get kicked out of the kitchen.”
“Good for you. Esca smiled. “It’s time to put the rice in. Turn the heat down a bit and add one cup of rice, then you can stir in that seasoning.” He pointed to a small bowl beside the rice.
“Got it,” Marcus said, doing as he was told while Esca rinsed the cutting board and knife. “Now what?”
“Now we cook it until it’s absorbed half the water, and then cover it and take it off the heat, letting the steam do the rest. Some people do take it off the heat at this point, but I’ve found the rice is more tender and less sticky if you do it my way.”
“Your way or the highway?” Marcus asked jokingly.
“Pretty much,” Esca confirmed. “Speaking of, you can start heating the pan for the chicken. Medium heat, you don’t want it too hot or it’ll burn, faster isn’t always better.”
“Right,” Marcus said, following Esca’s directions. Esca felt a small thrill shoot through him while watching Marcus work, wondering how far he could command Marcus to go before he would resist. He sighed, shaking his head at his futile longings. This was about the food, about teaching Marcus a skill he could use, even if he hired a cook the minute he left college.
“I would have turned it too high,” Marcus was saying, and Esca smiled.
“I know you would have. So would every other guy, and that’s how you ruined my pot last night.”
“Yeah, I’m still sorry about that,” Marcus said, taking the oil that Esca passed him and pouring a fair amount into the pan. “We can go shopping this weekend, if you like.”
Esca reached out and took the bottle before he poured too much, recapping it and putting it away.
“Yeah, that’d be good,” Esca said. “I’ve got a study group tomorrow night, so you’ll just have to make do with takeout for dinner. We’ll get some groceries this weekend, as well. Take out is a bad habit.”
“Sure,” Marcus said. “Chicken in?” He gestured to the chicken still sitting on the counter.
“No, wait for the pan to get hot. In the meantime, fill up the broccoli pot with water and put it on the stove. You can turn it hotter though, it needs to boil.” Esca leaned back on the counter, watching Marcus work. He had an efficient grace to his movements, and he picked things up very quickly. Watching him was a pleasure.
When Marcus was done he checked the chicken pan, picking it up and swirling the oil until it covered the entire pan. “Looks good to me,” he said, with a glance at Esca.
“Yup, you’re good to go,” Esca said, watching as Marcus peeled off the plastic wrapping and placed the chicken breasts into the pan. When both breasts were sizzling away, he put the empty package in the garbage can.
“Turn on the water?” he asked Esca, who complied, moving so that Marcus could access the sink, staying close enough so that Marcus had to brush up against him to reach the tap.
“Lid on,” Esca said, handing Marcus the towel, heat pooling inside his belly as their fingers brushed.
“Thanks,” Marcus said softly, not moving away, meeting Esca’s gaze as he dried his hands. Esca could feel the tension settling around them, and suddenly he thought back to all the times Marcus had stared a little too long, stood a little too close. All the times his eyes had lit up when Esca entered the room.
Perhaps he wasn’t the only one who could feel the spark between them, and perhaps Marcus wasn’t as straight as he seemed.
“Lid,” he said again, taking the towel back and hanging it on the hook. Marcus stepped back, putting the lid on the pan and then giving the rice a stir.
“Looks almost ready,” he said, peering into the pot.
“Yeah, it looks good,” Esca confirmed. Marcus gave it one last stir before putting the lid on the rice as well. “Time to flip the chicken.”
“Sure,” Marcus said. “Spatula?” He gestured to the utensil caddy on the other side of the sink.
“Oh, yeah,” Esca said, flustered to be caught not paying attention. Or, paying attention to the way the muscles in Marcus’ arms flexed, and not what they were doing. He grabbed the spatula and watched as Marcus removed the lid, flipping the chicken carefully. He replaced the lid, shooting a glance at Esca as he did.
“Showing some improvement, that’s promising,” Esca said. Marcus smirked, turning to look at Esca.
“I’m an attentive learner,” he replied, his lips still curved in a grin that suited him, softening the strong lines of his face.
“Apparently,” Esca said. “And yet,” he continued, unable to stop himself from taking the opportunity to tease, “you haven’t learned to clean up after yourself yet. Outside the kitchen.”
“I just need the right motivation,” Marcus replied, smiling wider. “And the right teacher.”
“I’ll keep that in mind,” Esca said, smiling back, wondering not for the first time if Marcus was flirting with him. The sizzle of water splashing onto the stove from the broccoli pot broke the moment, and Marcus turned to stir the veg. Esca admired the strong line of this neck and shoulders for a moment before turning away and grabbing some plates and cutlery, forcing his mind from speculation back into reality.
He set the table quickly, setting out plates, knives, and forks for the two of them and then turning back to grab glasses, walking right into the solid wall of Marcus’ chest.
“Oof,” he said as he grabbed Marcus’ arms to steady himself. The muscles he had been watching a few moments before were now flexing under his hands and the enticing smell of Marcus’ aftershave was sending a new awareness up his spine. Suddenly he was hungry for something other than dinner.
“Sorry,” Marcus said, making Esca tilt his head up to look at him.
“It’s all right,” Esca murmured. His gaze was drawn to the fresh stubble on Marcus’ cheek, wondering suddenly how it would feel against his tongue.
“Esca,” Marcus said, his voice low and quiet. “Do you...” he trailed off, meeting Esca’s eyes. He licked his lips, drawing Esca’s gaze there.
“What?” Esca asked, leaning in unconsciously.
“Do you...” Marcus began again, but then he wrinkled his nose, disgust flashing across his face. Esca discovered why as Marcus continued, “smell something burning?”
They pulled back, turning as one to face the stove, where puffs of smoke were bubbling out of the rice pot, rising to mix with the steam from the broccoli and chicken.
“Shit,” Marcus said. Esca pushed past him, rushing to the stove and grabbing the rice pot, moving it onto the only cool burner left, before leaning over to turn off the heat on the recently vacated burner.
“You didn’t turn the heat off,” Esca said, shaking his head and giving Marcus an incredulous look. “And worse, you did it right under my nose.”
“Shit, I’m sorry,” Marcus said. He put the glasses on the table and joined Esca by the stove, switching on the range hood. “Did I ruin another one?” He gestured to the pot. Esca pulled the lid off, releasing a cloud of smoke and steam.
“No, this time you were lucky,” Esca replied wryly. “There was something in it, so the food burned, instead of the pot.”
“Oh,” Marcus said. “I can’t believe I forgot that, I’m so sorry.”
“It’s alright, Marcus,” Esca said. “I should have noticed that you hadn’t turned it down. But you’ll be the one scrubbing the pot clean, along with the rest of the dishes.”
“Yeah, of course,” Marcus agreed. The speed of his acquiescence made Esca wonder if it was simply because he felt so bad about ruining Esca’s pot, or if there was more to it than that. He wondered for the first time if the burly, macho, muscular Marcus was in fact a big, nelly bottom. Not necessarily in the bedroom, which was fine with Esca, he liked a good fucking as much as the next guy. But, as far as Esca had seen, he was disturbingly eager to please. The kind of guy who craved a firm hand of guidance. It was hard to tell, though Esca would be happy either way, so it didn’t really matter.
Besides, nothing about Marcus was obvious from the way he looked or acted. Perhaps this was just another facet of his deceptive personality. Esca’s cock twitched at the thought, so he pushed it aside. There was no time for such musing now.
“And you’d better check the chicken, unless you want to burn it too.”
“Right.” Marcus took the lid off the chicken and turned it over again while Esca scraped the mushy, burnt rice out of the pot before putting it in the sink and filling it with water.
“How can you tell when it’s done?” Marcus asked. Esca turned off the tap and peered into the pan.
“It looks pretty good, but there are a few ways to tell if it’s done. Touch it.”
“Touch it?”
“Yeah,” Esca said. “Give it a poke with your finger.” He reached into the pan and poked the chicken a few times. “Tell me how it feels.”
“Uh,” Marcus said, giving Esca a sidelong look. “Okay.”
“Well?”
“It’s a bit squishy,” Marcus told him.
“Hey, don’t go using those technical terms,” Esca said, smirking. “Just tell me what you feel.”
Marcus laughed, the sound causing a coil of heat to form in Esca’s belly. “It’s soft on the inside.”
“Right, and chicken is a pretty soft meat. If it doesn’t feel firm, it’s not ready. When it does, we’ll poke it with a fork and see if the juices run clear.”
“Okay,” Marcus said. He replaced the lid and turned to look at the pot in the sink. “Maybe we should just buy you a whole new set of pots, in case I wreck another one.”
“Sounds good to me. There’s a few other things I wouldn’t mind picking up, since you’re buying,” Esca said, testing out the waters.
“If it’ll help you teach me, sure,” Marcus replied. “I have the money.” His smile was wide and eager, and that coil in Esca’s stomach surged even hotter.
“In that case, I’m sure there’s a few other things I could come up with, that you can buy for me,” Esca said.
Marcus chuckled, his voice low once more, deep and intimate. “I’m sure there is,” he said. Esca’s breath escaped him in a shudder, his eyes catching Marcus’ heated gaze and holding it, sharing a long look.
The sizzle of water hitting the hot stove broke them out of it, and Marcus reached over, turning the heat down on the broccoli. Esca’s breath again came out in a shudder, he hadn’t realised that he’d been holding it. Now he was certain that there was something between them, that Marcus was, at the very least, bi.
But what to do about it?
**
Esca roused Marcus the next day, far earlier than he wanted to be roused, if the blurry eyes and half-hearted glare in Esca’s direction were any indication.
“Do we have to go this early?” Marcus complained as he ran a hand through his hair, doing nothing to help the mess of bedhead he was currently sporting. Esca sighed, watching as Marcus opened the fridge and took out the orange juice, throwing back his head and drinking it right out of the carton.
Esca was transfixed. Marcus’ throat flexed as he drank, his shoulders thrown back, loose-limbed from sleep. Esca forced himself to snap out of it when Marcus put the carton back in the fridge.
“Yes, we do,” Esca replied at last. “The mall will be less crowded and besides, it’s not that early.”
“Early enough,” Marcus asked. “Do I have time for a shower at least?”
“I suppose, if you hurry,” Esca said. “After all, you’re paying.”
“I am,” Marcus said. He strode into the bathroom, calling over his shoulder, “Won’t be long.”
Esca slumped onto the couch when the door closed, lying his head on the back and staring at the ceiling. This was going to be a long day.
**
“Seriously? That much for a little pot?” Marcus asked. His eyes were a little wide and he was shaking his head.
“Yep,” Esca said. “It’s a well made, stainless steel pot, and they’re not cheap. Still gonna buy me a set?” Esca raised an eyebrow at Marcus, who was still shaking his head.
“Yeah, it’s no problem, I just had no idea what they cost. I feel even shittier for ruining the last one.”
“Well, you can get them for a hell of a lot cheaper, but the good quality ones cost, and they’ll last a lifetime if cared for properly,” Esca pointed out.
“Like anything else, then,” Marcus said.
“Pretty much.”
“Alright then, what else do you need?” Marcus asked. Esca was sure that his eyes must be gleaming with excitement at the open ended question. He’d had to save up for months to buy the set of cookware he’d chosen but he knew he’d need to buy quality. He may not be a chef or even an outstanding cook, but he had wanted them to last. So now, the experience of having carte blanche to purchase what he wished was dizzying. This was his opportunity to pick up some of the things he’d been wanting but weren’t a priority, especially for a college student.
“I hope you’re ready for this,” Esca said, putting the pot in the shopping cart that was already containing a few items.
Marcus leaned in, over the handle of the cart. “Bring it,” he said, his lips curved in a smirk and his eyes firmly on Esca’s ass. Well then. Esca’s heart started thumping. This should be an interesting day.
**
“So, what are we cooking tonight?” Marcus asked as he helped Esca unwrap their purchases. Esca had taken the opportunity to buy not only the pot, but several skillets, a set of high quality knives and some good bakeware, as well as a few other utensils and gadgets he’d never got around to buying. He also bought a griddle with a grill on the opposite side. They couldn’t have a barbeque or hibachi in their dorm room, so it was the next best thing. Esca was looking forward to grilling steaks and veggies on it.
“Something simple. No more burnt rice. How about grilled turkey and cheese sandwiches?”
“Alright,” Marcus agreed. “It shouldn't be too hard, should it?”
“For you? Can’t be too careful, so I’m keeping it simple,” Esca replied with a smirk, laughing at Marcus’ answering snort.
“I can grill bread,” Marcus said, indignant.
“Can you? You burned water,” Esca shot back, still laughing.
“Hey, the water was all gone when it burnt,” Marcus said.
“Exactly my point. It’s a lot easier to burn a piece of bread.”
“Fine, whatever,” Marcus said, a fake pout on his face.
Esca shook his head, smiling rather like an idiot, he thought. Marcus was so playful and unassuming, it was hard to be annoyed with him for long, and even harder to act as if he still was.
“Oh, come on, let’s get this stuff put away and we’ll try out the griddle, yeah?” Esca said, running water into the sink and adding dish soap. “I’ll wash, you dry.”
“Alright,” Marcus said. He gathered up all the plastic wrappers and paper that their haul had been packaged in and bagged it up, stacking the cardboard and boxes by the door.
They washed and found places for everything in near silence, with only a few words exchanged. Unlike many silences Esca had lived through in his relatively short lifetime, it was a comfortable one, making him think that they just might be compatible as more than just room mates.
But if it went wrong it could end up being the worst year of his life. Was it worth the risk? Sure, the chemistry between them was like nothing Esca had even experienced before, but it could still crash and burn, right?
“All done,” Marcus said. “Except this.” He took the griddle from the table and put it on the cold stove. “Ready to go?”
“Yup. Plug that in and set it to 350, then you can butter some bread,” Esca said, pulling out the butter, cheese and turkey.
“Just the one side?” Marcus asked as he laid out the bread, bumping shoulders with Esca as he began grating some cheese.
“Just the one, but get the whole thing, crusts too. It grills nicer that way.”
“So uh, where did you learn to cook?” Marcus asked as he worked.
“My mom taught me, before my parents died. It’s a good thing too. My brothers and I don’t get along, and even if I was living with them, I would have to do the cooking. It’s better on my own, though,” Esca said, piling the grated cheese into a bowl.
“I didn’t know they died, I’m sorry,” Marcus said, giving Esca a sad smile. “I know how you feel, mine are dead too.”
“I thought you were studying to work in the family business?” Esca asked, surprised.
“I am. My uncle runs it now, he took over the entire operation when my father died,” Marcus said. His voice was quiet and sad, his motions subdued, less vital than usual. He sighed, giving Esca another sad smile. It was a smile that Esca never wanted to see again. “He raised me,” Marcus continued. “He’s the best, my uncle. I’m lucky to have him.”
“Yeah, sounds like it,” Esca agreed. “If only he’d had the time to to teach you how to cook. Or to pick up your dirty pants,” Esca said, eager to lighten the mood. It appeared to work, as Marcus’ smile turned cheeky.
“He doesn’t know how to do those things himself, how could he teach me?” he asked with a laugh.
“Touche,” Esca said. He set the cheese aside and unwrapped the turkey. It was a lovely roasted rosemary turkey breast that he’d had sliced at the deli they’d visited.
“All done?” he asked Marcus.
“Yep,” he replied as he finished the last slice of bread.
“Right, so flip one piece over and we’ll load it up.” Esca said, stacking his bread butter side down, half on one of the other pieces.
“Why do you do that?” Marcus asked, gesturing at Esca’s bread piles.
“Oh, it just keeps the counter from getting as messy,” Esca said with a grin, portioning the cheese on his bread.
“I’m always down with easier clean up,” Marcus said, his shoulder nudging Esca’s as he reached for the cheese. Esca could feel his entire body flush at the contact, a tingling awareness spreading from his arm into his chest. He smiled to himself as he fiddled with the cheese, sending silent thanks to whoever had designed the dorm units. When he’d first arrived, he’d not been pleased, but now, his body brushing Marcus’ in the cramped kitchen, he didn’t mind quite as much.
“Right, so turkey on top of that, and then more cheese, to stick it all together.” Esca took a few slices of turkey and arranged them on the cheese, flushing as Marcus leaned into him again, nabbing his own turkey.
“I never would have thought to do it like that,” Marcus commented, arranging his second layer of cheese.”
“Marcus, how often have you ever thought about your food and how it was prepared?”
Marcus looked thoughtful for a moment, then shook his head. “Never. I just thought about what I wanted--”
“And you got it,” Esca finished for him.
“Yeah, I guess.” Marcus shrugged. Esca sighed. It must have been nice having money to burn. His family had never been rich, and since his parents had died, he’d been on his own. In more ways than financially.
On the other hand, he knew that Marcus felt considerable pressure to live up to his family’s name, to carry on the Aquila business tradition. Perhaps that was why he was so straight laced and yet so slobby and lazy at times. The form of rebellion he chose didn’t really make an impact on his future or any of the expectations he carried, but it was still there.
“All set?” Esca asked, nodding toward the now heated grill. He felt like he knew Marcus a little better, even if it was all conjecture.
“Sure,” Marcus replied, carefully lifting the loaded bread off the other slice, placing it on the grill with a sizzle, then copying the motion with the other. He went ahead and placed Esca’s as well, his hands deft and sure. A few pieces of cheese fell to the counter and Esca watched as Marcus picked them up and popped them into his mouth, shifting the focus of Esca’s attention to Marcus’ lips instead of his hands.
“Tops?” he asked, shocking Esca out of the daze he’d fallen in to.
“What? Oh, no. Not yet. Wait until you see the cheese starting to melt, then you’ll know the other side is ready.” He busied himself grabbing some tomatoes from the basket sitting on a shelf he’d installed himself shortly after moving in. Counter space was at a premium, and Esca couldn’t stand the thought of his tomatoes and other delicate fruit going mushy in the fridge.
“Will you put that stuff away while I start on a salad?” he asked, directing Marcus to the meat and cheese still on the counter.
“Sure,” Marcus said, packing them away as Esca pulled lettuce, cucumbers and radishes out of the fridge. He set about tearing the lettuce into a colander as Marcus cleared and wiped the counter, trying not to notice how their bodies brushed as they navigated the small space.
“What can I do?” Marcus asked when his task was completed, although he seemed to have an idea of what Esca’s directions would be, because he pulled out a cutting board and a knife.
“Start with the cucumber,” Esca replied. “Thin slices are fine.”
Marcus nodded, picking up the cucumber and washing it gently before putting it on the cutting board. He flushed slightly at Esca’s nod of approval, cutting off the stem end of the vegetable before starting to slice.
“Why aren’t you cutting the lettuce?” he asked.
“They say it keeps the lettuce from browning as quickly, not that it really matters. Cutting it is just as good, really, but my mom used to tear it, so I do too.”
“Cool,” Marcus said, setting aside a stack of cucumber slices before placing the bread tops on the sandwiches. “It’s all melted under the turkey, so I should flip them, yeah?”
“Yes,” Esca agreed, handing him a spatula. He rinsed the lettuce, keeping an eye on Marcus as he flipped the sandwiches one by one. The third one landed a bit askew, but Marcus righted it quickly, only losing a little of the cheese.
Esca shook out the lettuce, giving the tomato to Marcus to dice. The worked in silence for a few moments, Marcus’ knife on the cutting board and the sizzling sandwiches the only sounds. Esca was surprised at how comfortable the silence was, at how well they worked together. His mind filled with a vision of the two of them, older, in a much larger kitchen, working together seamlessly. He sucked in a breath of surprise, cursing his traitorous mind. He’d spent too much time considering Marcus’ attractiveness and his own attraction to the man, but he hadn’t let himself develop feelings for him
Or, he thought he hadn’t. The vision continued, until his older self leaned close and pulled the older Marcus in for a tender kiss which was returned enthusiastically. He shook his head and forced himself to think of something else, ignoring the heat that had settled in his chest at the thought. It was okay to be attracted to Marcus, but developing feelings could only end in disaster.
Once the salad was complete, Marcus removed the sandwiches from the grill, putting them on the now clean cutting board.
“Don’t forget to turn the grill off,” Esca said, when Marcus reached for a knife to cut them. “And here.” He handed Marcus the wrung out but still damp cloth. “Use this to wipe the grease off the grill. It won’t need to be submerged again if you wipe it right away, while it’s hot.”
“Oh, cool,” Marcus said, doing as he was bid. “That’ll save some work.”
“Grab some plates and bring them to the table, and I’ll get the salad dressings.”
“Sure,” Marcus said as Esca dug into the fridge for dressing. He wasn’t sure which type Marcus preferred, so he grabbed several bottles and then took them and the salad bowl to the table.
By the time he was ready Marcus had the sandwiches on plates, so they sat down together to eat. Esca pushed away the idea of it being a date and focused instead on serving himself some salad.
“I wasn’t sure what you liked,” he said, gesturing to the bottles as Marcus studied them.
“Usually the creamy kinds,” Marcus informed him, choosing a bottle of ranch.
“Pfft,” Esca scoffed. “Ranch is for dipping.”
Marcus laughed, his eyes twinkling. It made Esca’s stomach flip, and he couldn’t stop himself from smiling back.
“Theses are really good,” Marcus said after thoughtfully chewing and swallowing a large bit of grilled sandwich. “Not bad for my first try.”
“And better yet, nothing burnt,” Esca added with a mischievous smirk. “You’re learning, go figure.”
“Har de har,” Marcus said in a dry tone, though his eyes showed his mirth. “Seriously though, how am I doing?”
“Not too bad, really,” Esca replied. “We still have a ways to go though, and honestly, it’ll come down to whether or not you can do it on your own. It’s not hard when I’m telling you what to do and reminding you of the important things.”
“I know,” Marcus said, pondering for a moment before continuing. “I’m far too easily distracted,” he said at last. “I always have been. The only things that really hold my attention are a good game or a challenging hack.”
“It helps that those things seem to come naturally to you,” Esca said, smiling as Marcus nodded along. “So you have to break out of your comfort zone, and don’t be afraid to screw up. But mostly you need to keep your head in the game.”
“Gotcha. I’ll try.”
“Good,” Esca said, smiling again. “Now shut up and eat. You can do the dishes.” He laughed when Marcus groaned dramatically, his face clearly showing his annoyance at being stuck with the dishes. Again.
**
The next week passed fairly smoothly, Marcus dutifully following Esca’s instructions in the kitchen and seemingly absorbing the snippets of wisdom that Esca bestowed upon him. There had been no more burning incidents, though there had been one close call involving some almost, but not quite, burnt onions that Marcus had been sauteing for spaghetti sauce. Luckily that one had been an easy fix, a quick scrub of the pot and some fresh onions had got them right back on track.
They’d gone on another shopping excursion, this time to stock the kitchen with more of the basics that Esca wished to have around, and jars to keep them in. The makeshift pantry had required more space, so they had also purchased a set of shelves, which Esca had hung while Marcus made more grilled sandwiches, this time with ham, cheese and tomato. He’d done rather well, Esca had to admit. By the time the shelves were hung and the mess was cleared away, Marcus had completed an early dinner.
That night, in honor of the newly stocked kitchen, Esca had taught Marcus to bake several kinds of muffins, apple cinnamon, raisin bran, and coffee cake muffins, a favorite of Esca’s. They were both exhausted when they had finally completed it all, but it had been worth it to have a freezer stocked full of quick and easy breakfasts, as well as snacks on the go.
Marcus’ appreciation for Esca’s skills had grown with each skill he learned, and he had even remarked that his clothes had been fitting better. This had led to Esca being sure to check out the fit on Marcus’ clothes. Marcus was right, his clothes fit superbly, in all the right places. On the other hand, if they had been tighter on Marcus previously, Esca hadn’t noticed. And he would have noticed, what with all the staring he’d been doing.
It was practically impossible to keep his eyes off Marcus these days, even when he emerged from his room, rumpled and exhausted, with bags under his eyes and pillow creases indented on his face after a late night gaming marathon. Esca had always liked well put together men, which Marcus admittedly was, most of the time. However, his slovenly ways when he was at home in the dorm had never been particularly attractive to Esca. But now...now that he knew Marcus, now that he had seen the way Marcus threw himself into the things he was passionate about, including learning how to cook, he had somehow started to find Marcus’ slobbish half...endearing. Attractive, even.
It was bizarre. Marcus had walked into his life and turned it on its head, and Esca had no idea how it had happened. Marcus had over-thrown every preconception that Esca had ever had about rich, spoiled college boys. And, instead of trying to ignore it or push it aside, Esca found himself embracing Marcus and his unconventional ways. Far from wishing it would stop, Esca wanted more.
He was quickly getting in over his head with Marcus. His libido had long been engaged. But now he had found his heart engaged as well. It was completely unexpected. And Esca had no idea what to do about it.
When Marcus bounded into their suite after class that afternoon, Esca couldn’t help but grin. Marcus’ enthusiasm was infectious.
“What’s got you so happy?” he asked, putting down his textbook, and raising a brow at Marcus, who was drinking orange juice right out of the carton. Again. Esca made a note to buy another. On the other hand, considering what else he’d like to put in Marcus’ mouth, perhaps he wouldn’t worry about it.
“Aced my last project. The Professor was practically all over me about it.” Marcus laughed, putting the juice back in the fridge, ducking his head down to see what else was inside.
“Congratulations,” Esca said, admiring Marcus’ still lean body as he hunched over.
“Thanks.” Marcus stood up, holding up the package of steaks that Esca had bought on their last shopping trip. He intended to whip up a marinade for them that evening, but apparently Marcus had other plans. “So, steak for dinner? To celebrate?” He shook the package back and forth, waggling his brows as well.
Esca couldn’t help but laugh. He got up to take the package from Marcus and tuck it back in the fridge. “No, not tonight. Tonight we’re making soup.”
“Soup?” Marcus looked incredulously at the closed door. “Who would want soup when they could have steak?”
Esca lifted the lid off the pot that was simmering on the stove, the scent of well seasoned stock rising from the pot. “It’s called delayed gratification, although I doubt you’ve ever had to wait for anything in your oh so pampered life.”
“Fuck you,” Marcus said, but his smile took to bite out of his words. “Seriously, though. Soup?”
“Yes, soup. I used the bones from the chicken the other night and threw in some vegetables and herbs. It’s been simmering all day, all we need to do now is strain it and make the soup.”
He turned to look at Marcus, who was leaning dejectedly against the counter. “Besides, the steak will be much better after it’s been marinated for a day.”
“Fine, we can make the stupid soup.” Marcus huffed and pushed away from the counter. “I’ll go get changed and we can slave over it. Soup, for fuck’s sake.”
Esca laughed again, watching as inconspicuously as possible as Marcus headed to his bedroom. Once the door was closed, he turned back to the stock with a sigh, his stomach fluttering in anticipation of working side by side with Marcus once more. He didn’t think it would ever get old.
**
By the time the soup was ready, Esca was grinning like a twit, flushed with more than the heat of the oven that was baking their biscuits, and practically nauseous with butterflies. Marcus was truly in a cheeky mood, and the banter between them flowed smooth and thick. He had never been so flirtatious.
Esca loved it.
He couldn’t pretend anymore that his feelings for Marcus were merely sexual, but he wasn’t ready to think about what that might mean. Especially since there was a chance that nothing would ever happen between them, flirting or not.
“They look pretty good,” Marcus said, bending down to peer into the oven.
“Really good,” Esca replied, cocking his head to get a better look at Marcus’ ass in his soft flannel pyjamas. He forced himself to focus on the task at hand, adding, “They can come out now.”
“All right,” Marcus said, grabbing the biscuits while Esca tasted the soup one last time.
“Damn,” Marcus said once they had settled in. “This is really, really good.”
“I know, it’s way better than that canned crap,” Esca agreed, blowing on a spoonful. “And it’s better for you too.”
“And we both know that’s what I’m after here,” Marcus replied, dipping a buttered biscuit into his soup.
“Well, it seems to be working,” Esca said. “You haven’t turned into a dumpling just yet, at any rate.”
“Thank god for that.” Marcus shook his head, giving Esca a lopsided smile. “How would I be able to attract a hot boy if I did?”
Esca’s spoon paused halfway to his mouth, as he stared at Marcus in shock. Marcus was focused on his soup, a faint blush creeping onto his cheeks.
“Oh,” Esca said, forcing his hand into motion again. “So you are gay, then?”
“Yeah,” Marcus replied, lifting his head and meeting Esca’s eyes. “Wait, you sound like you already knew.”
“I wasn’t sure.”
“But how?” Marcus put his spoon down and looked at Esca thoughtfully. “No one, not one person has known before I told them. I’m not exactly a walking stereotype.”
“No, you’re definitely not,” Esca said with a grin.
“Seriously though, everyone is surprised and some people don’t even believe me.”
“That’s because they can’t look past their narrow minded stereotypes to realize that gay people are just that, people. We come in all shapes and sizes.” Esca looked back down at his bowl, fishing out a chunk of chicken with his spoon. He was well aware that he just outed himself to Marcus as well, but he had no need to hide it, and, in a situation like this one, reciprocity was the done thing.
“We? So I was right, too?”
“You thought I was gay?” Esca asked. “Am I that obvious?”
“No, nothing like that,” Marcus replied. “You’re not completely transparent or anything, but you made me wonder. I figured it out when I noticed you checking out my ass.”
Esca stared at Marcus in shock for a moment, he could feel the blush colouring his cheeks. But then Marcus started laughing and he couldn’t help but join in. It was kind of funny, when he thought about it.
“Well, that’s how I figured you were gay,” Esca shot back, flicking a piece of his biscuit at Marcus. “That and they way you always flirted with me.”
“Always? Pfft,” Marcus scoffed. “I could have flirted with you a lot more than I did.”
“I’m sure you could have,” Esca said, with a smirk. Marcus blushed again and looked back at his soup. Esca did the same, and they ate in silence for a few minutes, until Esca wondered if he’d gone too far, said too much.
But soon Marcus was chuckling to himself, gaining Esca’s attention.
“What?” he said.
“Just...what are the chances?” Marcus grinned up at Esca, who furrowed his brow in confusion. “I mean, what are the chances that they’d put the two of us together, and that we’d have so much in common?”
“And so little,” Esca said, agreeing with him.
Marcus laughed. “It’s true.” The shared another smile that made Esca’s stomach flip again, something that was happening with increased frequency. Esca looked back to his bowl, trying to dispel the the butterflies. They’d taken a step forward, but they weren’t exactly dating or...anything.
Still. You never know.
Part Two
Rating: R
Summary: The day Esca arrived at his dorm only to find it filled with noxious black smoke and his brand new cookware in ruins, he knew something had to be done.
Word Count: 18,000ish
Notes: Modern day college AU. This fic was inspired by this prompt at the_eagle_kink. I took it in my own direction, and it kind of veered away from the prompt. I had a lot of fun and a lot of frustration writing it, but it turned out alright in the end. :D Many thinks to dizilla and nikki4noo for the beta and support!
It all started the afternoon Esca came back to the dorm and caught the scent of doom. Well, it smelled like doom anyway, an intense burning tinged with a heavy tang of metal. He could smell it all the way down the hall, and vaguely wondered if a frustrated computer science major was offering up their laptop as a sacrifice for good grades.
But the smell grew stronger the closer he came to his own dorm and a sinking feeling had him almost running the last few feet, throwing the door open. The room was filled with clouds of smoke, the scorched metal smell so strong that Esca gagged and then coughed. An answering cough came from the direction of the kitchen, along with a vicious sizzling, sending up another plume of steam.
“Marcus?” he called.
“Esca?” his roommate called back, desperately, from somewhere within the cloud.
“Are you trying to burn down the place?” Esca stumbled a bit as he took another step into the room.
“Nothing’s on fire, I just...I can’t see you,” Marcus called back from within the cloud.
“I wonder why,” Esca said. He moved in the direction of the window, grateful that they were the last unit in the building and had a window in their common space. He fumbled with the latch, sending a relieved thank you to any and all deities when it opened and fresh air rushed into the room.
“Marcus, what is going on?” he called into the smoke, grabbing a magazine off the coffee table and flapping it up and down in an attempt to clear the room.
“I don’t know!” Marcus cried, a pot rattling in the sink as he coughed again. “I was just trying to make dinner.”
“What?” Esca called in disbelief, trying to make his way across the room toward the kitchen area. “Why?”
“A little help, first?” Marcus said, his voice closer now.
“Ow!” Esca yelled, his face connecting suddenly with one of Marcus’ flailing hands.
“God, I’m sorry,” Marcus said, reaching out and finding Esca as the air began to clear, his hands gripping Esca’s arms and holding him upright. “I was trying to clear the air.”
“I’ve opened the window,” Esca said, holding his nose tenderly. “Now what the hell is going on here?”
“I may have burned something?”
“May have?” Esca replied, incredulous. “I think we’ve gone past hypothetical here, Marcus.”
“I don’t know how it happened, honestly,” Marcus said, his face, now that Esca could see it, was pale and blotchy, from the heat or panic or both, Esca didn’t know. It should not have been attractive, but then again, Esca had long passed the point where he was surprised at finding Marcus attractive. He was always attractive, no matter how he looked.
“Let me see,” Esca said, shrugging out of Marcus’ grip and braving the mess in the sink.
“No,” he groaned when he spotted the smoking remains of one of his Lagostina pots. He had saved up to buy the set before moving into the dorms, and had hoped they would last him the next 25 years or more. No such luck, apparently.
“You are so buying me a new pot,” he snarled at Marcus, who, to his credit, was looking rather sheepish.
“Of course, yes, any one you want,” Marcus replied, rubbing the back of his neck nervously.
Esca picked up the pot gingerly. The formerly smooth stainless steel surface was blackened, though he couldn’t tell what, if anything, had burnt onto it. It was warped as well, and Esca had a suspicion that he knew what had happened to it.
“Marcus, how did this happen?” he asked, looking pointedly at his roommate, who was still rubbing at his neck, looking adorably chastised. Damn him.
“I put some water on to boil,” Marcus said simply, dropping his hand and shoving it into his pocket, along with the other one. “Uncle made me promise to eat better, instead of just take out all the time, so I was going to make some pasta.”
Esca sighed, closing his eyes and praying for strength. “And then?” he asked, opening them to the sight of Marcus blushing and clearing his throat before continuing.
“And then it was taking forever, and I remembered hearing somewhere that a watched pot never boils.”
“So you left it,” Esca finished for him.
“I just thought I’d get some work done,” Marcus said defensively. “And I got to chatting with Axel online and he issued a challenge and...” he trailed off, but Esca could fill in the blanks.
“And you ended up hacking into one of your games and pulling some kind of prank,” he stated.
“Hey, it was a good one,” Marcus said, a cheeky grin forming on his face. “I hacked into the game and introduced a few ‘glitches’,” he said, complete with air quotes. “It created a perpetual treasure drop, it was epic.” He was grinning fully now, eyes sparkling with mischief and Esca couldn’t help but smile back. A little. He coughed and cleared his head, schooling his expression into one of disdain.
“And how long did this prank of epic proportions take, exactly?” he asked, only feeling a tiny bit regretful as the smile dropped from Marcus’ face.
“I’m not sure, maybe half an hour?”
“Long enough for the water to evaporate and the pot to warp and burn under the heat,” Esca said, shaking his head at Marcus’ absent mindedness. He wasn’t irresponsible in general, and he certainly wasn’t dim...in fact, Marcus was probably the smartest person Esca knew, but once he placed his focus on something, the world could come crashing down around him and he wouldn’t know the difference.
“I suppose,” Marcus answered, nodding. “There was smoke and some kind of cracking noise when I got back, so I figured that I’d better cool it down right away, yeah? So I tossed the pot in the sink and-”
“Turned on the water,” Esca said, completing the thought. “Hence all the steam, not to mention all the warping. Marcus, you never pour cold water into a pan that is hot, especially as hot as it would have to be after burning dry for who knows how long.”
“Yeah, I uh, I realized that after I did it, and...oh god Esca, I’m so sorry. I’m not a total idiot, I swear,” Marcus began, but Esca cut him off with a raised hand.
“I know you’re not, you’re just a sheltered rich kid with too much money and little to no common sense,” Esca said, enjoying the look of indignation that flashed over Marcus’ face.
“I have common sense,” Marcus insisted, brows furrowed. “I just don’t have any experience in the kitchen.”
“Clearly,” Esca said. “Why were you trying to cook anyway? Since when do you follow your uncle’s every command?” Esca turned, wetting the dishcloth and trying to clean up the mess on the countertop, turning off the burner that was still pumping out heat, and activating the fan on the range hood.
“I know, but he actually had a good point this time. I can’t keep eating take out forever, it’s just not healthy.”
“Since when are you worried about being healthy?” Esca pointed out, putting the ruined pot on a cool burner for later disposal. “You’ve never been too concerned about it before.”
It was true, Marcus didn’t pay much attention to his diet and activity levels, not in the months since Esca had known him. He was a big guy, well built but trim, broad shoulders and well muscled arms, a tight ass and strong legs. Not that Esca had noticed. Much. But Marcus did spend a lot of time sitting in front of his computer and was always dead to the world when Esca got up to run every morning. Late night hacking and gaming had led to him almost being late for more than one class.
“Well, I’ve never had to be before,” Marcus pointed out. “I always played football in high school, and ran for the track team, and we did a lot of snowboarding on weekends, stuff like that,” Marcus said, pulling another cloth out of the drawer and helping Esca wipe the condensation from the counters and walls in the kitchen. “But I’ve been so busy since school started that I won’t be able to get out on weekends and I’m not here to play sports, so I’ve lost that option too.”
“You could always run with me in the mornings,” Esca offered, only half hoping that he’d accept. Marcus with bed head, workout clothes and a sheen of sweat on his bare skin could prove too much for Esca’s shoddy self control. They still had a whole year of living in close quarters ahead of them.
“And have to get up at the ass-crack of dawn? No thanks,” Marcus scoffed, his face screwed up with disgust at the suggestion. “I’d rather stop eating junk and buy a treadmill. At least I could still watch my shows while I run.”
“Where are you going to put one in here?” Esca asked, gesturing to the common area. It was a square room with just enough space for a couch (brand new, purchased by Marcus to replace the beat-up one the room had come with), coffee table, and television stand (containing all Marcus’ media equipment). A small round table with two chairs for eating and studying was wedged into the corner beside the kitchen area, and one desk under the window, opposite the table, where Esca kept his laptop. Marcus’ computer and related paraphernalia were in his bedroom, much to Esca’s relief, as it was quite a mess most of the time. How Marcus kept anything organized was a mystery to him, the way he left things lying around. Growing up with servants didn’t make for a very fastidious roommate.
“I’ll figure something out,” Marcus said, his eyes flickering across the space. “But I still can’t keep relying on take-out, I’ll be fat and greasy in no time.” Marcus shuddered at the thought, making Esca suspect, not for the first time, that he might not be as straight as the girls in their shared business management classes presumed.
“Yes, that would be a tragedy indeed,” Esca commented dryly, bracing himself on the counter and giving Marcus a blatant once over before quirking an eyebrow at him. Marcus turned back to the sink, but Esca was certain he saw a flush rise up Marcus’ neck and onto his cheeks, making Esca’s heart pound and his palms sweat. He closed his eyes and reminded himself again of all the reasons why he shouldn’t make a pass at his roommate. Uncertainty about Marcus’ sexuality was fading as they got to know each other better, but there were many other reasons to take its place.
“You know how to cook, right?” Marcus asked, bringing Esca’s attention back to the present. He had rinsed out his dishcloth and squeezed out the water while Esca had been distracted, though the sight of his strong hands draping the cloth over the faucet didn’t do much to help Esca focus.
“I get by,” Esca said, wondering where Marcus was going with this line of questioning. If he suggested that Esca cook for him, Esca might have to tear him a new one, no matter how fetching his ass was in those wool dress slacks he favored. Marcus was an epic study in contrasts, slobby and entitled and prone to marathon sessions on the couch or his computer chair, as much a geek as anyone Esca had ever met. And yet, when he attended classes he was always impeccably turned out in slacks, dress shirts and occasionally a blazer. Esca had even seen him sporting a sweater vest once, though he never wished to again. Marcus’ shoulders had been accentuated under the knit wool of the garment far too nicely for Esca’s peace of mind. Although the jeans and t-shirts he wore on the weekends weren’t much better, they always fit a bit too snugly, drawing Esca’s attention to his chest and legs, ass and shoulders, just as efficiently as his dressier clothes did.
Marcus was the simplest and most incomprehensible person Esca had ever known. It was fascinating.
“Why do you ask?” Esca ventured, narrowing his eyes at the pleading look on Marcus’ face.
“Maybe you could teach me?” Marcus asked, affecting his best puppy dog look. A look that was far too effective, what with his wide green eyes and full lips. Esca swallowed.
“Can’t you pay someone to teach you?” Esca asked, knowing that he’d end up agreeing and dreading the time spent with Marcus in a hot, cramped kitchen space, night after night and, inevitably, on weekends.
“I could, but then I could pay someone to cook for me too,” Marcus pointed out. “I’d like to learn myself, and I want to do it here, not take some class at the community center or something. I’ll pay you, if you like,” he added.
Esca considered it for a second before shaking his head. “Don’t be ridiculous. I’ll teach you to cook, as long as you buy all the groceries. And a new pot,” he said, throwing his cloth in the sink and giving Marcus a considering look. “And whatever else I might need.”
“Sure, no problem,” Marcus agreed eagerly. “We can go shopping this weekend, yeah?”
“If you like,” Esca said, nodding. “But now it’s time for your first lesson, boiling water.”
“Starting now?” Marcus asked.
“Can you think of a better time? You’ll never forget this lesson, I guarantee it,” Esca said, gesturing toward the cupboard. “Now grab me another pot and fill it up.”
Marcus did as he was told, while Esca continued to give instructions. “First, it may seem like a watched pot never boils, but it’s all in your head. It’ll boil when it’s good and ready. Don’t leave the room though, there’s other things you can do while we wait for the water. Like make the sauce...”
**
“What are we cooking tonight?” Marcus asked as soon as Esca entered the room the next evening. He looked like an eager puppy and it was so adorable that Esca’s annoyance at being ambushed was fading.
“I’m not sure, let me have a look,” Esca said. “But first let me get in the door, will you?”
“Sure, yeah,” Marcus said, throwing himself on the couch and propping his feet on the coffee table as Esca took off his bag and piled his things on his desk.
“Eager much?” he asked as he took his coat off. Marcus grinned up at him, making Esca’s stomach flip.
“Well, the pasta turned out so well, I’m really looking forward to cooking something else,” Marcus replied. “Considering my first attempt, it was quite the success.”
“Yes well, you should never cook without supervision, that’s for sure,” Esca said with a snort.
“Not yet, anyway,” Marcus agreed. “I would have burnt the place down without your help.”
“No doubt,” Esca said. “Right then, let’s have a look.” He rummaged around in the fridge, thinking about what he’d picked up when he went shopping several days earlier.
“What have we got?” Marcus asked, bending down to peer into the fridge with Esca, his nearness heating Esca’s back in direct contrast to the coolness of the fridge.
“Chicken,” Esca said, taking the package out and holding it behind him for Marcus to take.
“Great,” Marcus said, thankfully standing up and giving Esca some room. “What else?”
“Uhh, how about rice? And broccoli?” Esca grabbed a bag out of the vegetable crisper, closing the fridge behind him.
“Sounds good,” Marcus agreed, putting the chicken on the counter and waiting for Esca’s direction.
“Right, so this meal is all about timing. But first, wash your grubby paws, boy,” he directed, joining Marcus at the sink to wash. They only had a single sink in the tiny space, so they crowded together, shoulder to shoulder, their hands bumping under the stream as they lathered and rinsed. Marcus finished first, stepping away from the sink to dry his hands, leaving Esca to breath a sigh of relief. Marcus smelled really good, as always. His hygiene habits made up for his sloth-like behaviour, but normally Esca was able to avoid too much close contact.
“So timing,” Marcus said, handing Esca the towel and then opened the cupboard to get out the rice. “Rice first, then?” he asked, holding up the box.
“Yup. Get out the smallest pot and put, oh...two cups of water on to boil, yeah?” Esca nodded toward the compact stove as he pulled out a cutting board and a knife. “And watch it this time.”
“Yeah, you’re funny,” Marcus said, but his tone was light and a small smiled adorned his face, matching the one Esca wore.
“When you’ve done that, you can get another pot for the broccoli,” Esca began, but he stopped, thinking. “Never mind that,” he continued. “Come over here and chop this, you need the practice.”
“Sure,” Marcus said, setting the pot of water on the burner and turning it on. “I imagine you’ve chopped your fair share of broccoli.”
“You imagine right,” Esca said, getting the broccoli pot himself, and grabbing a pan for the chicken as well. “Hopefully, you’ll catch the knack too.”
“Well, I’ve got a great teacher,” Marcus said, his gaze focused on the vegetables he was chopping.
“Darn right,” Esca stated, passing Marcus the pot. They worked quietly for a few minutes, Marcus finishing the broccoli and Esca prepping the seasoning for the rice.
“All done,” Marcus said, cleaning up the counter, much to Esca’s pleasure. He’d had a few strong words for Marcus the day before, about cleaning up after himself in the kitchen.
“You can keep your room as slobby as you want, and I don’t even mind if it spills out here sometimes,” he’d said, giving Marcus his sternest glare. “But you’ll keep this kitchen clean, or I won’t teach you anything more, got it?”
Marcus had nodded sheepishly, and he had cleaned everything up without any prompting from Esca. It was nice to see that Marcus had taken the rule to heart.
“Nice to see you cleaning up,” Esca said, earning a smile from Marcus that had Esca’s heart thumping.
“I don’t want to get kicked out of the kitchen.”
“Good for you. Esca smiled. “It’s time to put the rice in. Turn the heat down a bit and add one cup of rice, then you can stir in that seasoning.” He pointed to a small bowl beside the rice.
“Got it,” Marcus said, doing as he was told while Esca rinsed the cutting board and knife. “Now what?”
“Now we cook it until it’s absorbed half the water, and then cover it and take it off the heat, letting the steam do the rest. Some people do take it off the heat at this point, but I’ve found the rice is more tender and less sticky if you do it my way.”
“Your way or the highway?” Marcus asked jokingly.
“Pretty much,” Esca confirmed. “Speaking of, you can start heating the pan for the chicken. Medium heat, you don’t want it too hot or it’ll burn, faster isn’t always better.”
“Right,” Marcus said, following Esca’s directions. Esca felt a small thrill shoot through him while watching Marcus work, wondering how far he could command Marcus to go before he would resist. He sighed, shaking his head at his futile longings. This was about the food, about teaching Marcus a skill he could use, even if he hired a cook the minute he left college.
“I would have turned it too high,” Marcus was saying, and Esca smiled.
“I know you would have. So would every other guy, and that’s how you ruined my pot last night.”
“Yeah, I’m still sorry about that,” Marcus said, taking the oil that Esca passed him and pouring a fair amount into the pan. “We can go shopping this weekend, if you like.”
Esca reached out and took the bottle before he poured too much, recapping it and putting it away.
“Yeah, that’d be good,” Esca said. “I’ve got a study group tomorrow night, so you’ll just have to make do with takeout for dinner. We’ll get some groceries this weekend, as well. Take out is a bad habit.”
“Sure,” Marcus said. “Chicken in?” He gestured to the chicken still sitting on the counter.
“No, wait for the pan to get hot. In the meantime, fill up the broccoli pot with water and put it on the stove. You can turn it hotter though, it needs to boil.” Esca leaned back on the counter, watching Marcus work. He had an efficient grace to his movements, and he picked things up very quickly. Watching him was a pleasure.
When Marcus was done he checked the chicken pan, picking it up and swirling the oil until it covered the entire pan. “Looks good to me,” he said, with a glance at Esca.
“Yup, you’re good to go,” Esca said, watching as Marcus peeled off the plastic wrapping and placed the chicken breasts into the pan. When both breasts were sizzling away, he put the empty package in the garbage can.
“Turn on the water?” he asked Esca, who complied, moving so that Marcus could access the sink, staying close enough so that Marcus had to brush up against him to reach the tap.
“Lid on,” Esca said, handing Marcus the towel, heat pooling inside his belly as their fingers brushed.
“Thanks,” Marcus said softly, not moving away, meeting Esca’s gaze as he dried his hands. Esca could feel the tension settling around them, and suddenly he thought back to all the times Marcus had stared a little too long, stood a little too close. All the times his eyes had lit up when Esca entered the room.
Perhaps he wasn’t the only one who could feel the spark between them, and perhaps Marcus wasn’t as straight as he seemed.
“Lid,” he said again, taking the towel back and hanging it on the hook. Marcus stepped back, putting the lid on the pan and then giving the rice a stir.
“Looks almost ready,” he said, peering into the pot.
“Yeah, it looks good,” Esca confirmed. Marcus gave it one last stir before putting the lid on the rice as well. “Time to flip the chicken.”
“Sure,” Marcus said. “Spatula?” He gestured to the utensil caddy on the other side of the sink.
“Oh, yeah,” Esca said, flustered to be caught not paying attention. Or, paying attention to the way the muscles in Marcus’ arms flexed, and not what they were doing. He grabbed the spatula and watched as Marcus removed the lid, flipping the chicken carefully. He replaced the lid, shooting a glance at Esca as he did.
“Showing some improvement, that’s promising,” Esca said. Marcus smirked, turning to look at Esca.
“I’m an attentive learner,” he replied, his lips still curved in a grin that suited him, softening the strong lines of his face.
“Apparently,” Esca said. “And yet,” he continued, unable to stop himself from taking the opportunity to tease, “you haven’t learned to clean up after yourself yet. Outside the kitchen.”
“I just need the right motivation,” Marcus replied, smiling wider. “And the right teacher.”
“I’ll keep that in mind,” Esca said, smiling back, wondering not for the first time if Marcus was flirting with him. The sizzle of water splashing onto the stove from the broccoli pot broke the moment, and Marcus turned to stir the veg. Esca admired the strong line of this neck and shoulders for a moment before turning away and grabbing some plates and cutlery, forcing his mind from speculation back into reality.
He set the table quickly, setting out plates, knives, and forks for the two of them and then turning back to grab glasses, walking right into the solid wall of Marcus’ chest.
“Oof,” he said as he grabbed Marcus’ arms to steady himself. The muscles he had been watching a few moments before were now flexing under his hands and the enticing smell of Marcus’ aftershave was sending a new awareness up his spine. Suddenly he was hungry for something other than dinner.
“Sorry,” Marcus said, making Esca tilt his head up to look at him.
“It’s all right,” Esca murmured. His gaze was drawn to the fresh stubble on Marcus’ cheek, wondering suddenly how it would feel against his tongue.
“Esca,” Marcus said, his voice low and quiet. “Do you...” he trailed off, meeting Esca’s eyes. He licked his lips, drawing Esca’s gaze there.
“What?” Esca asked, leaning in unconsciously.
“Do you...” Marcus began again, but then he wrinkled his nose, disgust flashing across his face. Esca discovered why as Marcus continued, “smell something burning?”
They pulled back, turning as one to face the stove, where puffs of smoke were bubbling out of the rice pot, rising to mix with the steam from the broccoli and chicken.
“Shit,” Marcus said. Esca pushed past him, rushing to the stove and grabbing the rice pot, moving it onto the only cool burner left, before leaning over to turn off the heat on the recently vacated burner.
“You didn’t turn the heat off,” Esca said, shaking his head and giving Marcus an incredulous look. “And worse, you did it right under my nose.”
“Shit, I’m sorry,” Marcus said. He put the glasses on the table and joined Esca by the stove, switching on the range hood. “Did I ruin another one?” He gestured to the pot. Esca pulled the lid off, releasing a cloud of smoke and steam.
“No, this time you were lucky,” Esca replied wryly. “There was something in it, so the food burned, instead of the pot.”
“Oh,” Marcus said. “I can’t believe I forgot that, I’m so sorry.”
“It’s alright, Marcus,” Esca said. “I should have noticed that you hadn’t turned it down. But you’ll be the one scrubbing the pot clean, along with the rest of the dishes.”
“Yeah, of course,” Marcus agreed. The speed of his acquiescence made Esca wonder if it was simply because he felt so bad about ruining Esca’s pot, or if there was more to it than that. He wondered for the first time if the burly, macho, muscular Marcus was in fact a big, nelly bottom. Not necessarily in the bedroom, which was fine with Esca, he liked a good fucking as much as the next guy. But, as far as Esca had seen, he was disturbingly eager to please. The kind of guy who craved a firm hand of guidance. It was hard to tell, though Esca would be happy either way, so it didn’t really matter.
Besides, nothing about Marcus was obvious from the way he looked or acted. Perhaps this was just another facet of his deceptive personality. Esca’s cock twitched at the thought, so he pushed it aside. There was no time for such musing now.
“And you’d better check the chicken, unless you want to burn it too.”
“Right.” Marcus took the lid off the chicken and turned it over again while Esca scraped the mushy, burnt rice out of the pot before putting it in the sink and filling it with water.
“How can you tell when it’s done?” Marcus asked. Esca turned off the tap and peered into the pan.
“It looks pretty good, but there are a few ways to tell if it’s done. Touch it.”
“Touch it?”
“Yeah,” Esca said. “Give it a poke with your finger.” He reached into the pan and poked the chicken a few times. “Tell me how it feels.”
“Uh,” Marcus said, giving Esca a sidelong look. “Okay.”
“Well?”
“It’s a bit squishy,” Marcus told him.
“Hey, don’t go using those technical terms,” Esca said, smirking. “Just tell me what you feel.”
Marcus laughed, the sound causing a coil of heat to form in Esca’s belly. “It’s soft on the inside.”
“Right, and chicken is a pretty soft meat. If it doesn’t feel firm, it’s not ready. When it does, we’ll poke it with a fork and see if the juices run clear.”
“Okay,” Marcus said. He replaced the lid and turned to look at the pot in the sink. “Maybe we should just buy you a whole new set of pots, in case I wreck another one.”
“Sounds good to me. There’s a few other things I wouldn’t mind picking up, since you’re buying,” Esca said, testing out the waters.
“If it’ll help you teach me, sure,” Marcus replied. “I have the money.” His smile was wide and eager, and that coil in Esca’s stomach surged even hotter.
“In that case, I’m sure there’s a few other things I could come up with, that you can buy for me,” Esca said.
Marcus chuckled, his voice low once more, deep and intimate. “I’m sure there is,” he said. Esca’s breath escaped him in a shudder, his eyes catching Marcus’ heated gaze and holding it, sharing a long look.
The sizzle of water hitting the hot stove broke them out of it, and Marcus reached over, turning the heat down on the broccoli. Esca’s breath again came out in a shudder, he hadn’t realised that he’d been holding it. Now he was certain that there was something between them, that Marcus was, at the very least, bi.
But what to do about it?
**
Esca roused Marcus the next day, far earlier than he wanted to be roused, if the blurry eyes and half-hearted glare in Esca’s direction were any indication.
“Do we have to go this early?” Marcus complained as he ran a hand through his hair, doing nothing to help the mess of bedhead he was currently sporting. Esca sighed, watching as Marcus opened the fridge and took out the orange juice, throwing back his head and drinking it right out of the carton.
Esca was transfixed. Marcus’ throat flexed as he drank, his shoulders thrown back, loose-limbed from sleep. Esca forced himself to snap out of it when Marcus put the carton back in the fridge.
“Yes, we do,” Esca replied at last. “The mall will be less crowded and besides, it’s not that early.”
“Early enough,” Marcus asked. “Do I have time for a shower at least?”
“I suppose, if you hurry,” Esca said. “After all, you’re paying.”
“I am,” Marcus said. He strode into the bathroom, calling over his shoulder, “Won’t be long.”
Esca slumped onto the couch when the door closed, lying his head on the back and staring at the ceiling. This was going to be a long day.
**
“Seriously? That much for a little pot?” Marcus asked. His eyes were a little wide and he was shaking his head.
“Yep,” Esca said. “It’s a well made, stainless steel pot, and they’re not cheap. Still gonna buy me a set?” Esca raised an eyebrow at Marcus, who was still shaking his head.
“Yeah, it’s no problem, I just had no idea what they cost. I feel even shittier for ruining the last one.”
“Well, you can get them for a hell of a lot cheaper, but the good quality ones cost, and they’ll last a lifetime if cared for properly,” Esca pointed out.
“Like anything else, then,” Marcus said.
“Pretty much.”
“Alright then, what else do you need?” Marcus asked. Esca was sure that his eyes must be gleaming with excitement at the open ended question. He’d had to save up for months to buy the set of cookware he’d chosen but he knew he’d need to buy quality. He may not be a chef or even an outstanding cook, but he had wanted them to last. So now, the experience of having carte blanche to purchase what he wished was dizzying. This was his opportunity to pick up some of the things he’d been wanting but weren’t a priority, especially for a college student.
“I hope you’re ready for this,” Esca said, putting the pot in the shopping cart that was already containing a few items.
Marcus leaned in, over the handle of the cart. “Bring it,” he said, his lips curved in a smirk and his eyes firmly on Esca’s ass. Well then. Esca’s heart started thumping. This should be an interesting day.
**
“So, what are we cooking tonight?” Marcus asked as he helped Esca unwrap their purchases. Esca had taken the opportunity to buy not only the pot, but several skillets, a set of high quality knives and some good bakeware, as well as a few other utensils and gadgets he’d never got around to buying. He also bought a griddle with a grill on the opposite side. They couldn’t have a barbeque or hibachi in their dorm room, so it was the next best thing. Esca was looking forward to grilling steaks and veggies on it.
“Something simple. No more burnt rice. How about grilled turkey and cheese sandwiches?”
“Alright,” Marcus agreed. “It shouldn't be too hard, should it?”
“For you? Can’t be too careful, so I’m keeping it simple,” Esca replied with a smirk, laughing at Marcus’ answering snort.
“I can grill bread,” Marcus said, indignant.
“Can you? You burned water,” Esca shot back, still laughing.
“Hey, the water was all gone when it burnt,” Marcus said.
“Exactly my point. It’s a lot easier to burn a piece of bread.”
“Fine, whatever,” Marcus said, a fake pout on his face.
Esca shook his head, smiling rather like an idiot, he thought. Marcus was so playful and unassuming, it was hard to be annoyed with him for long, and even harder to act as if he still was.
“Oh, come on, let’s get this stuff put away and we’ll try out the griddle, yeah?” Esca said, running water into the sink and adding dish soap. “I’ll wash, you dry.”
“Alright,” Marcus said. He gathered up all the plastic wrappers and paper that their haul had been packaged in and bagged it up, stacking the cardboard and boxes by the door.
They washed and found places for everything in near silence, with only a few words exchanged. Unlike many silences Esca had lived through in his relatively short lifetime, it was a comfortable one, making him think that they just might be compatible as more than just room mates.
But if it went wrong it could end up being the worst year of his life. Was it worth the risk? Sure, the chemistry between them was like nothing Esca had even experienced before, but it could still crash and burn, right?
“All done,” Marcus said. “Except this.” He took the griddle from the table and put it on the cold stove. “Ready to go?”
“Yup. Plug that in and set it to 350, then you can butter some bread,” Esca said, pulling out the butter, cheese and turkey.
“Just the one side?” Marcus asked as he laid out the bread, bumping shoulders with Esca as he began grating some cheese.
“Just the one, but get the whole thing, crusts too. It grills nicer that way.”
“So uh, where did you learn to cook?” Marcus asked as he worked.
“My mom taught me, before my parents died. It’s a good thing too. My brothers and I don’t get along, and even if I was living with them, I would have to do the cooking. It’s better on my own, though,” Esca said, piling the grated cheese into a bowl.
“I didn’t know they died, I’m sorry,” Marcus said, giving Esca a sad smile. “I know how you feel, mine are dead too.”
“I thought you were studying to work in the family business?” Esca asked, surprised.
“I am. My uncle runs it now, he took over the entire operation when my father died,” Marcus said. His voice was quiet and sad, his motions subdued, less vital than usual. He sighed, giving Esca another sad smile. It was a smile that Esca never wanted to see again. “He raised me,” Marcus continued. “He’s the best, my uncle. I’m lucky to have him.”
“Yeah, sounds like it,” Esca agreed. “If only he’d had the time to to teach you how to cook. Or to pick up your dirty pants,” Esca said, eager to lighten the mood. It appeared to work, as Marcus’ smile turned cheeky.
“He doesn’t know how to do those things himself, how could he teach me?” he asked with a laugh.
“Touche,” Esca said. He set the cheese aside and unwrapped the turkey. It was a lovely roasted rosemary turkey breast that he’d had sliced at the deli they’d visited.
“All done?” he asked Marcus.
“Yep,” he replied as he finished the last slice of bread.
“Right, so flip one piece over and we’ll load it up.” Esca said, stacking his bread butter side down, half on one of the other pieces.
“Why do you do that?” Marcus asked, gesturing at Esca’s bread piles.
“Oh, it just keeps the counter from getting as messy,” Esca said with a grin, portioning the cheese on his bread.
“I’m always down with easier clean up,” Marcus said, his shoulder nudging Esca’s as he reached for the cheese. Esca could feel his entire body flush at the contact, a tingling awareness spreading from his arm into his chest. He smiled to himself as he fiddled with the cheese, sending silent thanks to whoever had designed the dorm units. When he’d first arrived, he’d not been pleased, but now, his body brushing Marcus’ in the cramped kitchen, he didn’t mind quite as much.
“Right, so turkey on top of that, and then more cheese, to stick it all together.” Esca took a few slices of turkey and arranged them on the cheese, flushing as Marcus leaned into him again, nabbing his own turkey.
“I never would have thought to do it like that,” Marcus commented, arranging his second layer of cheese.”
“Marcus, how often have you ever thought about your food and how it was prepared?”
Marcus looked thoughtful for a moment, then shook his head. “Never. I just thought about what I wanted--”
“And you got it,” Esca finished for him.
“Yeah, I guess.” Marcus shrugged. Esca sighed. It must have been nice having money to burn. His family had never been rich, and since his parents had died, he’d been on his own. In more ways than financially.
On the other hand, he knew that Marcus felt considerable pressure to live up to his family’s name, to carry on the Aquila business tradition. Perhaps that was why he was so straight laced and yet so slobby and lazy at times. The form of rebellion he chose didn’t really make an impact on his future or any of the expectations he carried, but it was still there.
“All set?” Esca asked, nodding toward the now heated grill. He felt like he knew Marcus a little better, even if it was all conjecture.
“Sure,” Marcus replied, carefully lifting the loaded bread off the other slice, placing it on the grill with a sizzle, then copying the motion with the other. He went ahead and placed Esca’s as well, his hands deft and sure. A few pieces of cheese fell to the counter and Esca watched as Marcus picked them up and popped them into his mouth, shifting the focus of Esca’s attention to Marcus’ lips instead of his hands.
“Tops?” he asked, shocking Esca out of the daze he’d fallen in to.
“What? Oh, no. Not yet. Wait until you see the cheese starting to melt, then you’ll know the other side is ready.” He busied himself grabbing some tomatoes from the basket sitting on a shelf he’d installed himself shortly after moving in. Counter space was at a premium, and Esca couldn’t stand the thought of his tomatoes and other delicate fruit going mushy in the fridge.
“Will you put that stuff away while I start on a salad?” he asked, directing Marcus to the meat and cheese still on the counter.
“Sure,” Marcus said, packing them away as Esca pulled lettuce, cucumbers and radishes out of the fridge. He set about tearing the lettuce into a colander as Marcus cleared and wiped the counter, trying not to notice how their bodies brushed as they navigated the small space.
“What can I do?” Marcus asked when his task was completed, although he seemed to have an idea of what Esca’s directions would be, because he pulled out a cutting board and a knife.
“Start with the cucumber,” Esca replied. “Thin slices are fine.”
Marcus nodded, picking up the cucumber and washing it gently before putting it on the cutting board. He flushed slightly at Esca’s nod of approval, cutting off the stem end of the vegetable before starting to slice.
“Why aren’t you cutting the lettuce?” he asked.
“They say it keeps the lettuce from browning as quickly, not that it really matters. Cutting it is just as good, really, but my mom used to tear it, so I do too.”
“Cool,” Marcus said, setting aside a stack of cucumber slices before placing the bread tops on the sandwiches. “It’s all melted under the turkey, so I should flip them, yeah?”
“Yes,” Esca agreed, handing him a spatula. He rinsed the lettuce, keeping an eye on Marcus as he flipped the sandwiches one by one. The third one landed a bit askew, but Marcus righted it quickly, only losing a little of the cheese.
Esca shook out the lettuce, giving the tomato to Marcus to dice. The worked in silence for a few moments, Marcus’ knife on the cutting board and the sizzling sandwiches the only sounds. Esca was surprised at how comfortable the silence was, at how well they worked together. His mind filled with a vision of the two of them, older, in a much larger kitchen, working together seamlessly. He sucked in a breath of surprise, cursing his traitorous mind. He’d spent too much time considering Marcus’ attractiveness and his own attraction to the man, but he hadn’t let himself develop feelings for him
Or, he thought he hadn’t. The vision continued, until his older self leaned close and pulled the older Marcus in for a tender kiss which was returned enthusiastically. He shook his head and forced himself to think of something else, ignoring the heat that had settled in his chest at the thought. It was okay to be attracted to Marcus, but developing feelings could only end in disaster.
Once the salad was complete, Marcus removed the sandwiches from the grill, putting them on the now clean cutting board.
“Don’t forget to turn the grill off,” Esca said, when Marcus reached for a knife to cut them. “And here.” He handed Marcus the wrung out but still damp cloth. “Use this to wipe the grease off the grill. It won’t need to be submerged again if you wipe it right away, while it’s hot.”
“Oh, cool,” Marcus said, doing as he was bid. “That’ll save some work.”
“Grab some plates and bring them to the table, and I’ll get the salad dressings.”
“Sure,” Marcus said as Esca dug into the fridge for dressing. He wasn’t sure which type Marcus preferred, so he grabbed several bottles and then took them and the salad bowl to the table.
By the time he was ready Marcus had the sandwiches on plates, so they sat down together to eat. Esca pushed away the idea of it being a date and focused instead on serving himself some salad.
“I wasn’t sure what you liked,” he said, gesturing to the bottles as Marcus studied them.
“Usually the creamy kinds,” Marcus informed him, choosing a bottle of ranch.
“Pfft,” Esca scoffed. “Ranch is for dipping.”
Marcus laughed, his eyes twinkling. It made Esca’s stomach flip, and he couldn’t stop himself from smiling back.
“Theses are really good,” Marcus said after thoughtfully chewing and swallowing a large bit of grilled sandwich. “Not bad for my first try.”
“And better yet, nothing burnt,” Esca added with a mischievous smirk. “You’re learning, go figure.”
“Har de har,” Marcus said in a dry tone, though his eyes showed his mirth. “Seriously though, how am I doing?”
“Not too bad, really,” Esca replied. “We still have a ways to go though, and honestly, it’ll come down to whether or not you can do it on your own. It’s not hard when I’m telling you what to do and reminding you of the important things.”
“I know,” Marcus said, pondering for a moment before continuing. “I’m far too easily distracted,” he said at last. “I always have been. The only things that really hold my attention are a good game or a challenging hack.”
“It helps that those things seem to come naturally to you,” Esca said, smiling as Marcus nodded along. “So you have to break out of your comfort zone, and don’t be afraid to screw up. But mostly you need to keep your head in the game.”
“Gotcha. I’ll try.”
“Good,” Esca said, smiling again. “Now shut up and eat. You can do the dishes.” He laughed when Marcus groaned dramatically, his face clearly showing his annoyance at being stuck with the dishes. Again.
**
The next week passed fairly smoothly, Marcus dutifully following Esca’s instructions in the kitchen and seemingly absorbing the snippets of wisdom that Esca bestowed upon him. There had been no more burning incidents, though there had been one close call involving some almost, but not quite, burnt onions that Marcus had been sauteing for spaghetti sauce. Luckily that one had been an easy fix, a quick scrub of the pot and some fresh onions had got them right back on track.
They’d gone on another shopping excursion, this time to stock the kitchen with more of the basics that Esca wished to have around, and jars to keep them in. The makeshift pantry had required more space, so they had also purchased a set of shelves, which Esca had hung while Marcus made more grilled sandwiches, this time with ham, cheese and tomato. He’d done rather well, Esca had to admit. By the time the shelves were hung and the mess was cleared away, Marcus had completed an early dinner.
That night, in honor of the newly stocked kitchen, Esca had taught Marcus to bake several kinds of muffins, apple cinnamon, raisin bran, and coffee cake muffins, a favorite of Esca’s. They were both exhausted when they had finally completed it all, but it had been worth it to have a freezer stocked full of quick and easy breakfasts, as well as snacks on the go.
Marcus’ appreciation for Esca’s skills had grown with each skill he learned, and he had even remarked that his clothes had been fitting better. This had led to Esca being sure to check out the fit on Marcus’ clothes. Marcus was right, his clothes fit superbly, in all the right places. On the other hand, if they had been tighter on Marcus previously, Esca hadn’t noticed. And he would have noticed, what with all the staring he’d been doing.
It was practically impossible to keep his eyes off Marcus these days, even when he emerged from his room, rumpled and exhausted, with bags under his eyes and pillow creases indented on his face after a late night gaming marathon. Esca had always liked well put together men, which Marcus admittedly was, most of the time. However, his slovenly ways when he was at home in the dorm had never been particularly attractive to Esca. But now...now that he knew Marcus, now that he had seen the way Marcus threw himself into the things he was passionate about, including learning how to cook, he had somehow started to find Marcus’ slobbish half...endearing. Attractive, even.
It was bizarre. Marcus had walked into his life and turned it on its head, and Esca had no idea how it had happened. Marcus had over-thrown every preconception that Esca had ever had about rich, spoiled college boys. And, instead of trying to ignore it or push it aside, Esca found himself embracing Marcus and his unconventional ways. Far from wishing it would stop, Esca wanted more.
He was quickly getting in over his head with Marcus. His libido had long been engaged. But now he had found his heart engaged as well. It was completely unexpected. And Esca had no idea what to do about it.
When Marcus bounded into their suite after class that afternoon, Esca couldn’t help but grin. Marcus’ enthusiasm was infectious.
“What’s got you so happy?” he asked, putting down his textbook, and raising a brow at Marcus, who was drinking orange juice right out of the carton. Again. Esca made a note to buy another. On the other hand, considering what else he’d like to put in Marcus’ mouth, perhaps he wouldn’t worry about it.
“Aced my last project. The Professor was practically all over me about it.” Marcus laughed, putting the juice back in the fridge, ducking his head down to see what else was inside.
“Congratulations,” Esca said, admiring Marcus’ still lean body as he hunched over.
“Thanks.” Marcus stood up, holding up the package of steaks that Esca had bought on their last shopping trip. He intended to whip up a marinade for them that evening, but apparently Marcus had other plans. “So, steak for dinner? To celebrate?” He shook the package back and forth, waggling his brows as well.
Esca couldn’t help but laugh. He got up to take the package from Marcus and tuck it back in the fridge. “No, not tonight. Tonight we’re making soup.”
“Soup?” Marcus looked incredulously at the closed door. “Who would want soup when they could have steak?”
Esca lifted the lid off the pot that was simmering on the stove, the scent of well seasoned stock rising from the pot. “It’s called delayed gratification, although I doubt you’ve ever had to wait for anything in your oh so pampered life.”
“Fuck you,” Marcus said, but his smile took to bite out of his words. “Seriously, though. Soup?”
“Yes, soup. I used the bones from the chicken the other night and threw in some vegetables and herbs. It’s been simmering all day, all we need to do now is strain it and make the soup.”
He turned to look at Marcus, who was leaning dejectedly against the counter. “Besides, the steak will be much better after it’s been marinated for a day.”
“Fine, we can make the stupid soup.” Marcus huffed and pushed away from the counter. “I’ll go get changed and we can slave over it. Soup, for fuck’s sake.”
Esca laughed again, watching as inconspicuously as possible as Marcus headed to his bedroom. Once the door was closed, he turned back to the stock with a sigh, his stomach fluttering in anticipation of working side by side with Marcus once more. He didn’t think it would ever get old.
**
By the time the soup was ready, Esca was grinning like a twit, flushed with more than the heat of the oven that was baking their biscuits, and practically nauseous with butterflies. Marcus was truly in a cheeky mood, and the banter between them flowed smooth and thick. He had never been so flirtatious.
Esca loved it.
He couldn’t pretend anymore that his feelings for Marcus were merely sexual, but he wasn’t ready to think about what that might mean. Especially since there was a chance that nothing would ever happen between them, flirting or not.
“They look pretty good,” Marcus said, bending down to peer into the oven.
“Really good,” Esca replied, cocking his head to get a better look at Marcus’ ass in his soft flannel pyjamas. He forced himself to focus on the task at hand, adding, “They can come out now.”
“All right,” Marcus said, grabbing the biscuits while Esca tasted the soup one last time.
“Damn,” Marcus said once they had settled in. “This is really, really good.”
“I know, it’s way better than that canned crap,” Esca agreed, blowing on a spoonful. “And it’s better for you too.”
“And we both know that’s what I’m after here,” Marcus replied, dipping a buttered biscuit into his soup.
“Well, it seems to be working,” Esca said. “You haven’t turned into a dumpling just yet, at any rate.”
“Thank god for that.” Marcus shook his head, giving Esca a lopsided smile. “How would I be able to attract a hot boy if I did?”
Esca’s spoon paused halfway to his mouth, as he stared at Marcus in shock. Marcus was focused on his soup, a faint blush creeping onto his cheeks.
“Oh,” Esca said, forcing his hand into motion again. “So you are gay, then?”
“Yeah,” Marcus replied, lifting his head and meeting Esca’s eyes. “Wait, you sound like you already knew.”
“I wasn’t sure.”
“But how?” Marcus put his spoon down and looked at Esca thoughtfully. “No one, not one person has known before I told them. I’m not exactly a walking stereotype.”
“No, you’re definitely not,” Esca said with a grin.
“Seriously though, everyone is surprised and some people don’t even believe me.”
“That’s because they can’t look past their narrow minded stereotypes to realize that gay people are just that, people. We come in all shapes and sizes.” Esca looked back down at his bowl, fishing out a chunk of chicken with his spoon. He was well aware that he just outed himself to Marcus as well, but he had no need to hide it, and, in a situation like this one, reciprocity was the done thing.
“We? So I was right, too?”
“You thought I was gay?” Esca asked. “Am I that obvious?”
“No, nothing like that,” Marcus replied. “You’re not completely transparent or anything, but you made me wonder. I figured it out when I noticed you checking out my ass.”
Esca stared at Marcus in shock for a moment, he could feel the blush colouring his cheeks. But then Marcus started laughing and he couldn’t help but join in. It was kind of funny, when he thought about it.
“Well, that’s how I figured you were gay,” Esca shot back, flicking a piece of his biscuit at Marcus. “That and they way you always flirted with me.”
“Always? Pfft,” Marcus scoffed. “I could have flirted with you a lot more than I did.”
“I’m sure you could have,” Esca said, with a smirk. Marcus blushed again and looked back at his soup. Esca did the same, and they ate in silence for a few minutes, until Esca wondered if he’d gone too far, said too much.
But soon Marcus was chuckling to himself, gaining Esca’s attention.
“What?” he said.
“Just...what are the chances?” Marcus grinned up at Esca, who furrowed his brow in confusion. “I mean, what are the chances that they’d put the two of us together, and that we’d have so much in common?”
“And so little,” Esca said, agreeing with him.
Marcus laughed. “It’s true.” The shared another smile that made Esca’s stomach flip again, something that was happening with increased frequency. Esca looked back to his bowl, trying to dispel the the butterflies. They’d taken a step forward, but they weren’t exactly dating or...anything.
Still. You never know.
Part Two