Fic: Broken and Shattered Chapter 3
Title: Broken and Shattered
Fandom: Torchwood
Pairings/Character: Jack/Ianto, Caden/Tosh, pre-Rhys/Owen Kathy, Gwen
Summary: It was supposed to be a simple camping trip. Jack wanted to bring the team closer together and to test Ianto’s shield strength. Too bad none of them saw this coming.
Rating: R
Disclaimer: I do not own Torchwood. But I do know that Jack and Ianto belong to each other. I do own all original characters.
Author Notes: The next story in my Alien!Ianto series, it’s my take on Countrycide
Beta: The amazing royalladyemma
Chapter 3
The next morning Jack nearly called the whole investigation off; it was that or send the others off without him and Ianto. Jack's libido went into overdrive the moment he got a look at Ianto Jones wearing a pair of sinfully tight blue jeans, and oh, joys of joys; they were in Jack's favourite style with the button-fly front. A low growl escaped Jack’s lips as he stalked closer to his young mate; his fingers were simply itching to start toying with those five buttons.
Hunger and heat flared in Jack's eyes as he devoured the sight of Ianto in jeans that hugged his mate’s pert arse to perfection, accentuating every minute curve and muscle as he moved. It took all of Jack’s willpower not to drag Ianto to their bed and finally lay claim to his mate. “You are a temptation, Mr Jones, a naughty invitation wrapped in blue denim.” Jack literally purred his words as he used the length of his body to pin Ianto against the wall of the kitchen.
Shivers of intense need and desire coursed through Ianto as he felt of Jack’s strong body pressed against his own. The heat pouring off Jack made Ianto want to curl into the warmth of his mate’s arms and never leave.
Jack’s burning gaze bored into Ianto’s and the young Welshman was lost in the sea of intense emotions swirling from his mate. The pure love warmed Ianto’s soul; the endless lust he saw there brought a blush to his cheeks, which as hard as Ianto wished, did not escape Jack's eagle eye.
The immortal grinned as he took in the deep colour gracing Ianto’s cheeks; he had a pretty good idea what put it there. Jack was never going to shy away from what he felt about Ianto and unless Ianto told him to or there was a very good reason for him to, Jack would never willing close his side of their link. He loved the fact that Ianto could feel all his emotions, raw and unfiltered, the moment they occurred. Jack knew that he wasn't the most open man when it came to actually discussing his ‘feelings’, but he never wanted Ianto to doubt his love for him.
Nuzzling Ianto’s neck Jack sighed in pure contentment. “Maybe we should just send the others to check this out and while they're away, we’ll spend the day cuddling and making out.” Jack really liked the sound of that and he prayed that Ianto would agree.
Ianto was tempted, oh so very tempted to say yes; it would mean a day free from Gwen’s negative thoughts as well as a day to have Jack all to himself. It was very hard to do the right thing and it took every bit of Ianto's willpower to say, “You know we can’t.” Ianto's voice was laced with reluctance and regret.
A sweet pout graced Jack’s face as he turned sad puppy-dog eyes on Ianto. “I knew you were going to say that,” He said with a sulky voice.
Ianto hated to see Jack sad; it made him feel more than just a little guilty. “Well, just think of it this way, sir; I’ll be in jeans all day and you'll get to enjoy the view every single time you look at me. And, since there’s only four sleeping bags and three tents, two of us will have to share.” Ianto’s voice took on a seductive tone as he shot Jack a coy look from under his eyelashes. "I wonder who'd want to share with little ol' me?"
Ianto knew he was using a tone and a look that were guaranteed to send all of Jack’s blood rushing south, if the bulge he could feel pressing against his thigh was any indication. Grinning happily, Jack curled one hand around Ianto’s neck, pulling his lover closer until his breath ghosted across Ianto’s mouth. “You know, if I remember correctly, the country air can get rather chilly at night, so you’ll need someone to warm you up.” There was no way that Jack would allow anyone but him to keep Ianto warm.
Unable to resist temptation any longer, Ianto pressed a kiss against Jack’s lips, a kiss that Jack immediately deepened. It was going to be a long trip complete with putting up with Gwen’s silly mooning and Owen’s constant complaining. Jack knew that there wouldn’t be much time for the two of them to have a moment alone until night and he was determined to take advantage of every moment they had alone.
*****
Owen stared woefully at the partially packed bag on his bed; he hadn’t liked the cheerful tone in Jack’s voice when he called just an hour earlier telling him to pack a bag for a few nights. “He’s up to something, I just know it,” Owen muttered as je kicked his closet door closed and tossed his jacket into the bag. Jack only ever used that, 'hey, buddy, we're in for a really great time' tone when he had just enjoyed a stolen moment alone with Ianto or was planning something that he knew Owen wasn't going to like.
Dread gripped Owen tightly for a brief moment. “Harkness, you bloody well better not be planning a camping trip or I'll make damn sure that you're unable to take any enjoyment from Tea-Boy for a very long time,” Owen vowed darkly as he zipped his bag shut.
*****
Gwen was having a much different reaction to an overnight mission involving Jack Harkness. She spent over an hour in the bath, primping, powdering, and perfuming, and she made sure to pack her must seductive undergarments. ‘Tonight’s the night! There’s no way Jack will be bringing the Tea-Boy along with us, not out in the field. Hopefully the distance between them will weaken Ianto’s mind control and Jack will once again come to his senses and remember it’s me he wants.'
A shiver of excitement coursed through Gwen. 'I’ll admit my love to him and then Jack will take me in his arms, admit that he loves me and we’ll make love all night long.' A sudden thought struck her. 'Oh, maybe I can convince Jack that we should bring Caden along. I doubt Jack would say no to having a go at the handsome knight, and lord knows, the poor man most likely needs some loving after only having boring old Tosh for company.’ Gwen let her eyes flutter shut as she lost herself in her fantasy of two gorgeous men doing everything in their power to please her. 'Oh, yeah... just like that...'
Standing in the doorway of what used to be their bedroom, Rhys fought the urge to growl as the scent of Gwen’s lust hit him; it didn’t take a genius to figure out who she was thinking about. “You might want to pack something a little warmer; it gets cold in the countryside at night,” Rhys called out; he could see the lacy teddy poking out of the bag and felt a little sick at what Gwen was planning. 'I bought you that teddy for our last Valentine's Day together, you selfish bitch,' Rhys thought bitterly.
Broken out of her daydreams Gwen whirled around to face Rhys, guilt clearly written all over her face. “Rhys! I didn’t hear you come in.” Gwen hastily shoved a shirt - a very low-cut shirt - in the bag in hopes of covering up the teddy.
Crossing his arms over his chest, Rhys scowled darkly at Gwen. “You didn't hear me arrive because you were too busy fantasying about two men who will never, ever, be yours.” Rhys had seen the looks his girlfriend had been given Caden.
Hope flared in Gwen; 'He's come back to me!' Maybe, just maybe, Rhys had come to his senses and realized how damn lucky he was to have her in his life. ‘Finally things are starting to look up! I’ll have my loyal Rhys at home just ready and waiting to care for me after a long day of saving the world. Rhys must know by now that he’ll never be enough for me. No, he needs to understand that I need to be free, that I need to be in Jack and Caden’s beds. He'll just have to accept the fact that even though I need the toe-curling passion that they will no doubt give me I’ll still come home to my Rhys.’
Oh yes, Gwen had it all planned out. She'd still have her happy home with Rhys, and he'd take wonderful care of it for her, cooking her favourite foods, making sure her laundry was done and keeping her house clean. Her nights, days and whenever would be spent in mind-blowing passion with Jack and Caden. 'I'll have to buy a pull-out sofa for Rhys to sleep on, though,' she thought. 'Either that, or move into a two-bedroom flat. There's no telling when my men might want to take me right here in my own bed!'
Rhys saw the hope flare in Gwen’s eyes and the next words out of his mouth crushed them into dust. “I’m just here to pick up some of my things. I’ll be moved out by the time you get back.” Normally Rhys Williams was proud of that fact that he was a good man, not the sort of man who took joy in causing pain to others but as he saw Gwen visible flinch at his words. he couldn’t help but feel some grim satisfaction.
The reminder that Rhys was no longer living in their home sent a sharp wave of pain within Gwen and it made her voice sharp. “Rhys, this is ridiculous! We both know that you’ll eventually see what a fool you’re being and you'll come back home." Gwen smiled sweetly at Rhys, softening her tone."You know you belong here with me.”
At one time, in fact not all that long ago, that smile would have lit up Rhys' whole world, but this morning he discovered that that was no longer the case. His blinders were gone and for the first time, he was seeing Gwen for who she truly was and he did not like what he was seeing. “No, Gwen. No, I won’t. You are not the woman I thought you were and I don’t see a future for us anymore.” Rhys told her softly. “I’ll come back after you leave for your mission. Good-bye, Gwen.”
It wasn’t until she heard the sound of the front door closing behind Rhys, their life together and their future that Gwen was able to react. Tears welled up in her eyes as it hit home that she had just been dumped, but the tears didn’t last long as anger filled her. “Fine! I don’t need you, Rhys Williams! I’ll have Jack and Caden waiting on me hand and foot, and I'll be waiting for you when you finally come crawling back to me!” She grabbed the vase from the dresser and flung it against the bedroom wall, watching it explode into jagged shards, just like her life.
*****
Tosh was finding it very hard to pack while a half-naked Caden lounged enticingly on her messy bed. She was finding it harder and harder to keep her eyes averted from the scene of last night's erotic adventure. She had enjoyed the most wonderful night she’d ever had and a soft smile played across her lips as she remembered the feeling of Caden’s strong hands on her body. She could still feel his mouth bringing her endless pleasure and Tosh couldn’t help but picture what it would be like when they made love for the first time.
Seeing the glazed over and distracted look in Tosh’s eyes, Caden crawled across the bed and snagged Tosh’s arm, pulling her down on top him. Tosh's blush darkened as she found herself pressed so tightly against Caden’s bare chest that she could feel his heart beating. Before she could utter a word in protest, Caden swooped in and stole her breath with a toe-curling kiss that robbed her of all coherent thought. The last thing to cross her mind was, ‘I guess I’m going to be late for work.’
*****
The scowl on Owen’s face deepened as he entered the Hub to find Gwen the only other person there; this did not improve his mood one little bit. Without saying a single word, Owen tossed his suitcase down by the door before stomped over and throwing himself into an empty chair.
Before he had gotten to know Rhys as a friend, the do-me eyes Gwen was giving him would have been all Owen needed before they were making sordid use of one of their desks or the couch. Now, however, Owen knew there was no way he ever could or ever would hurt Rhys like that. ‘I’m really starting to hate having a conscience,’ he griped to himself; doing the noble thing was really cramping his role as the team's heartless bastard. ‘If I’m not careful people might to start to think I actually have a heart or worse...' Owen shuddered, 'that I'm a nice guy!’
“Owen, you’re here early,” Gwen purred as she dragged her eyes over Owen’s body. ‘I don’t see the harm in having some fun with Owen while I wait for Jack and Caden to make their move. Maybe seeing me with another man will be the kick in the arse they need!’ Despite her plans for the other two men, Gwen still had a thing for Owen and she couldn’t see the harm in acting on those feelings now. 'After all, for the time being I'm a free woman!'
As a master player Owen easily caught onto her game and decided to have a little fun with her. “Well, seeing as Jack hasn’t been seen since he left with Tea-Boy yesterday, I have a pretty good idea as to why they're not here yet. And, I have a pretty good idea what’s keeping Tosh and that would be the body of a certain dark-haired knight. So, it pretty obvious as to why we're here early as opposed to everyone else.” Owen tried not to snigger as he reminded Gwen of just who Jack and Caden had spent their nights with.
Hate and jealousy flared in Gwen’s eyes and an ugly snarl twisted her lips. ‘Let Ianto and Tosh have their night with Jack and Caden; it'll give them something to think about when they're old and alone! Tonight it will be me in their bed,’ Gwen vowed.
Owen shook his head in disgust as he watched hunger enter Gwen’s eyes and he'd had enough. “Oh come on, Gwen! You can’t tell me you still think you have a chance with Jack or Caden! For god's sake, woman, are you really that delusional? They've both made it absolutely, positively, crystal clear, several times in fact, that they don’t want you! Jack wants the Tea-Boy, not you! Caden can’t see anyone but Tosh; he doesn't pay any attention to you!"
Owen was on a roll and he didn't see the ugly, vicious light in Gwen's eyes. "Let's face it, sweetheart, the only man who ever wanted a life with you was Rhys and you sank that ship but good!”
Fury filled Gwen and she tried to deny the truth behind his words. ‘How dare this miserable little man talk to me like that?’ “How dare you! There’s no need to get snippy with me! You’re just jealous because I no longer want you,” she snarled, her hands balled into tight fists.
Owen burst out in loud guffaws of laughter, rocking back in his chair as his eyes began to water. "I've never..." Owen was gasping for air. "...That's the stupidest..." He wiped tears from his cheeks. "I... You... ha ha haaa!" Owen was laughing so hard that he slid off his chair and landed on the floor, still laughing hysterically. "...jealous!"
Raucous laughter was the last response she expected from Owen and Gwen could only stare in wide-eyed confusion at the sight of Owen, lying on the floor of the Hub and laughing. “And what’s so funny?” Gwen demanded as a pout crossed her face. When she didn't get an immediate response to her question, she snatched up her stapler and threw it at the medic, narrowly missing his head.
Struggling to catch his breath, Owen forced himself to sit up so that he could lean against the nearest desk. With his chest heaving as he struggled for air, his face red and blotchy from rubbing tears from it and his belly muscles aching from laughing so hard, Owen stared up at his co-worker in disbelief. “You're what's so funny! You really do think I still want you! That's just too funny for words! Get over yourself, Cooper! I know I have and from the looks of it, so has Rhys!” Owen felt vindictive pleasure when he saw Gwen flinch at Rhys’ name. Rhys was his friend, and Gwen had hurt him badly, so it didn't bother him to make her uncomfortable.
Crushed by Owen's casual reference to Rhys, Gwen opened and closed her mouth like a fish several times. “You… um... you know about that?” Gwen didn’t like the fact that Rhys had become so close with everyone; Torchwood was supposed to be all hers, a place she could go to get away from him. But more than anything else, she hated the closeness that Rhys had developed with Owen, and she refused to admit that she was feeling jealous of their friendship.
Owen felt a cruel smirk twitch his lips. Since the day she'd started working there, Gwen had acted like she was better than all of them simply because she had a life outside of Torchwood. She never missed an opportunity to remind them that Rhys had done this or that for her, and she took joy in rubbing their faces in her happy relationship. 'Well, it's a relationship that is no more.' “Yeah, I do know all about it, seeing as Rhys is my good friend, and he's staying at my place until he can find a new place to live,” Owen informed her.
Gwen could only stare at Owen as she tried to come up with a good response, but whatever she was going to say was cut off when the Hub alarms signalled someone else's arrival.
'I never thought I'd say this but I could kiss Jack and the Tea-Boy!' Pure relief went through Owen at the sight of Jack, Ianto and Tosh arriving together. He wondered if he should give Jack the heads up that his talk with Gwen had no effect on her. 'I can't believe I'm about to say this but I hope Jack and Tea-Boy act all lovely-dovey with one another on this mission. It might be the only thing that'll finally open up Gwen's eyes.'
Like Tosh and Ianto, Owen was sick and tired of watching Gwen moon over Jack and deliberately and completely missing the fact that the man was in a happy loving, monogamous relationship with Ianto. 'What right does Gwen have to try and destroy something that makes Jack so happy?' Owen couldn't understand Gwen and seriously doubted he ever would.
Ianto fought the urge to whimper in fear and pain as Gwen and Owen's powerful emotions battered relentlessly against his shields. Immediately sensing Ianto's distress, Jack looped his arm around Ianto's waist even as he glanced at Owen first and then glared at Gwen. "What's going on here?" No one could miss the near-toxic level of tension filling the Hub from those two.
Owen took one look at Ianto and instantly felt horrible for causing Ianto pain. "I'm sorry, mate." Early in their careers with Torchwood, Jack had taught them all the basic's of shield control in order to help them keep their minds closed against unfriendly mental invasion. Realising that they needed to help Ianto fight against Gwen's chaotic emotions, Owen and Tosh quickly put their training to good use. It only took a moment for them to 'raise' their shields in order to keep their thoughts from drifting into Ianto's unprotected mind.
Ianto nodded slightly as he felt Owen's thoughts retreat from his mind, which allowed him to focus specifically on keeping Gwen's thoughts out. 'It's getting harder and harder every day.'
Ianto knew that Jack had some idea of how weak his mental shields were, but he was grateful that he was still able to hide just how weak they truly were.
One look at Owen's tense posture and the pure jealousy and hate in Gwen's eyes made it pretty clear to Jack what they were fighting about. 'Who would have ever thought that Owen would become one of Ianto's protectors?' Jack thought with an admiring smile. While he didn't quite understand the strange friendship that had developed between the two men he was grateful that it worked for them. 'Plus, I can't help but wonder if Owen's slight change in attitude has anything to do with his growing relationship with Rhys?'
Jack had been floored - absolutely gobsmacked would actually be a better word for it - by Owen and Rhys' closeness. Truthfully, he was both fascinated and amused whenever he saw how bright and strong the spark between the two men glowed; they were such vastly different people. 'It's gonna be one interesting relationship between the two of them.'
"Oi, are you just going to stand there all day gazing like a love-sick fool at Tea-Boy or are you gonna tell us where the bloody hell we're going?" Owen annoyed voice cut through Jack's thoughts.
Jack saw the way Gwen's eyes narrowed in hate as Owen spoke Ianto's name and he sighed heavily; 'Looks like my talk with Gwen had no effect on her. I honest have no clue as to what I am going to do about her anymore.' He was growing more and more disillusioned by former PC Gwen Cooper; she was no longer the naive young woman he'd hired while standing atop the Millennium Centre watching the sun come up. The problem was, Gwen had the makings of a fine field agent - when she listened to orders, that is - but her irrational and growing hatred of Ianto was causing problems among the team.
Her callous attitude towards Ianto and her thoughtless belief that she knew better than anyone else how to handle certain situations was driving her further away from the rest of the team. In a job where your life often depended upon the actions of your teammates, Gwen's lack of cooperation was guaranteed to cause problems in the field. 'Hopefully, this excursion into the mountains will help us all put aside any problems and learn to look out for one another in the field.'
What Jack hadn't told anyone, not even Ianto, was that one of the reasons he'd agreed to investigate the Brecon Beacons was to see if the team could work together without letting personal feelings getting in the way. He had absolutely no doubt that Ianto, Owen and Tosh could and would work perfectly together and would not let their problems with Gwen cloud their judgement. No, it was Gwen he was testing; he needed to see if she could rise above her petty bitterness and work with his mate, Owen and Tosh. 'If she can't and if she endangers any one of them, more importantly, if she endangers Ianto, I will make sure she never remembers Torchwood!' Jack vowed darkly.
He had let Gwen get away with so much crap - she'd been insolent, late for work, disregarded safety procedures, refused to follow direct orders and so much more - all because she was the newbie. Jack shook his head resolutely; the time for mollycoddling her was over. It was time Gwen Cooper earned her keep on the team without Jack make excuses for her mistakes.
Pushing those thoughts to the back of his mind, Jack smiled winningly at Owen. "The always lovely Kathy Swanson has asked us to check out a serious of unusual disappearances that have taken place over the last few months in the Brecon Beacons. Apparently, there is evidence to suggest that someone on the force maybe helping the perpetrators cover them up their crimes. None of the bodies has ever been found and there's been no trace of their vehicles or personal possessions."
Owen gave a low whistle. "What about on eBay and at the swap meets and boot sales? Has anybody checked out the charity shops?"
Jack shook his head. "Nothing. It's like they simply vanished from the face of the earth. Kathy has asked us to take a look to make sure it's not the Rift before she's forced to voice her suspicions to her superiors," Jack explained.
Ianto and Tosh exchanged bemused looks; they both noticed that Jack had conveniently left the camping part out. Tosh was grateful for Ianto's last-minute suggestion that she pack earplugs for the ride. They both knew that once Owen learned they were going to be camping out in the wilderness, he would spend every breath he had loudly and happily voicing his displeasure.
Owen's caught sight of the looks being exchanged between Ianto and Tosh and his eyes narrowed in suspicion; he turned an accusing glare on Jack. "You're hiding something."
A mockingly innocent look flashed upon Jack's face. "Owen, would I do something like that?" he clapped his hand to his chest as he asked in a hurt tone.
Owen knew Jack far too well to buy into the man's act, and his Owen's eyes narrowed even more. "This better not turn out to be some crazy attempt at team bonding involving camping because if it is, Harkness, I swear, there will be hell to pay!" Owen warned ominously.
Ignoring Owen's threat Jack grinned brightly and clapped his hands together. "All right, kids, let's get this show on the road!"
Anger and jealousy burned deep within Gwen as she watched Jack take Ianto's hand, link their fingers together and then raise their hands to his lips for a gentle kiss. The true smile of pure love that graced Jack's face drove the burning dagger of envy and despair deeper into her heart. 'Enjoy your time with Jack for now, Ianto, because soon I will take my rightful place at Jack's side and in his bed. I promise I will expose your sinister plan and you will be seen for the monster you truly are.'
TBC....
Fandom: Torchwood
Pairings/Character: Jack/Ianto, Caden/Tosh, pre-Rhys/Owen Kathy, Gwen
Summary: It was supposed to be a simple camping trip. Jack wanted to bring the team closer together and to test Ianto’s shield strength. Too bad none of them saw this coming.
Rating: R
Disclaimer: I do not own Torchwood. But I do know that Jack and Ianto belong to each other. I do own all original characters.
Author Notes: The next story in my Alien!Ianto series, it’s my take on Countrycide
Beta: The amazing royalladyemma
Chapter 3
The next morning Jack nearly called the whole investigation off; it was that or send the others off without him and Ianto. Jack's libido went into overdrive the moment he got a look at Ianto Jones wearing a pair of sinfully tight blue jeans, and oh, joys of joys; they were in Jack's favourite style with the button-fly front. A low growl escaped Jack’s lips as he stalked closer to his young mate; his fingers were simply itching to start toying with those five buttons.
Hunger and heat flared in Jack's eyes as he devoured the sight of Ianto in jeans that hugged his mate’s pert arse to perfection, accentuating every minute curve and muscle as he moved. It took all of Jack’s willpower not to drag Ianto to their bed and finally lay claim to his mate. “You are a temptation, Mr Jones, a naughty invitation wrapped in blue denim.” Jack literally purred his words as he used the length of his body to pin Ianto against the wall of the kitchen.
Shivers of intense need and desire coursed through Ianto as he felt of Jack’s strong body pressed against his own. The heat pouring off Jack made Ianto want to curl into the warmth of his mate’s arms and never leave.
Jack’s burning gaze bored into Ianto’s and the young Welshman was lost in the sea of intense emotions swirling from his mate. The pure love warmed Ianto’s soul; the endless lust he saw there brought a blush to his cheeks, which as hard as Ianto wished, did not escape Jack's eagle eye.
The immortal grinned as he took in the deep colour gracing Ianto’s cheeks; he had a pretty good idea what put it there. Jack was never going to shy away from what he felt about Ianto and unless Ianto told him to or there was a very good reason for him to, Jack would never willing close his side of their link. He loved the fact that Ianto could feel all his emotions, raw and unfiltered, the moment they occurred. Jack knew that he wasn't the most open man when it came to actually discussing his ‘feelings’, but he never wanted Ianto to doubt his love for him.
Nuzzling Ianto’s neck Jack sighed in pure contentment. “Maybe we should just send the others to check this out and while they're away, we’ll spend the day cuddling and making out.” Jack really liked the sound of that and he prayed that Ianto would agree.
Ianto was tempted, oh so very tempted to say yes; it would mean a day free from Gwen’s negative thoughts as well as a day to have Jack all to himself. It was very hard to do the right thing and it took every bit of Ianto's willpower to say, “You know we can’t.” Ianto's voice was laced with reluctance and regret.
A sweet pout graced Jack’s face as he turned sad puppy-dog eyes on Ianto. “I knew you were going to say that,” He said with a sulky voice.
Ianto hated to see Jack sad; it made him feel more than just a little guilty. “Well, just think of it this way, sir; I’ll be in jeans all day and you'll get to enjoy the view every single time you look at me. And, since there’s only four sleeping bags and three tents, two of us will have to share.” Ianto’s voice took on a seductive tone as he shot Jack a coy look from under his eyelashes. "I wonder who'd want to share with little ol' me?"
Ianto knew he was using a tone and a look that were guaranteed to send all of Jack’s blood rushing south, if the bulge he could feel pressing against his thigh was any indication. Grinning happily, Jack curled one hand around Ianto’s neck, pulling his lover closer until his breath ghosted across Ianto’s mouth. “You know, if I remember correctly, the country air can get rather chilly at night, so you’ll need someone to warm you up.” There was no way that Jack would allow anyone but him to keep Ianto warm.
Unable to resist temptation any longer, Ianto pressed a kiss against Jack’s lips, a kiss that Jack immediately deepened. It was going to be a long trip complete with putting up with Gwen’s silly mooning and Owen’s constant complaining. Jack knew that there wouldn’t be much time for the two of them to have a moment alone until night and he was determined to take advantage of every moment they had alone.
*****
Owen stared woefully at the partially packed bag on his bed; he hadn’t liked the cheerful tone in Jack’s voice when he called just an hour earlier telling him to pack a bag for a few nights. “He’s up to something, I just know it,” Owen muttered as je kicked his closet door closed and tossed his jacket into the bag. Jack only ever used that, 'hey, buddy, we're in for a really great time' tone when he had just enjoyed a stolen moment alone with Ianto or was planning something that he knew Owen wasn't going to like.
Dread gripped Owen tightly for a brief moment. “Harkness, you bloody well better not be planning a camping trip or I'll make damn sure that you're unable to take any enjoyment from Tea-Boy for a very long time,” Owen vowed darkly as he zipped his bag shut.
*****
Gwen was having a much different reaction to an overnight mission involving Jack Harkness. She spent over an hour in the bath, primping, powdering, and perfuming, and she made sure to pack her must seductive undergarments. ‘Tonight’s the night! There’s no way Jack will be bringing the Tea-Boy along with us, not out in the field. Hopefully the distance between them will weaken Ianto’s mind control and Jack will once again come to his senses and remember it’s me he wants.'
A shiver of excitement coursed through Gwen. 'I’ll admit my love to him and then Jack will take me in his arms, admit that he loves me and we’ll make love all night long.' A sudden thought struck her. 'Oh, maybe I can convince Jack that we should bring Caden along. I doubt Jack would say no to having a go at the handsome knight, and lord knows, the poor man most likely needs some loving after only having boring old Tosh for company.’ Gwen let her eyes flutter shut as she lost herself in her fantasy of two gorgeous men doing everything in their power to please her. 'Oh, yeah... just like that...'
Standing in the doorway of what used to be their bedroom, Rhys fought the urge to growl as the scent of Gwen’s lust hit him; it didn’t take a genius to figure out who she was thinking about. “You might want to pack something a little warmer; it gets cold in the countryside at night,” Rhys called out; he could see the lacy teddy poking out of the bag and felt a little sick at what Gwen was planning. 'I bought you that teddy for our last Valentine's Day together, you selfish bitch,' Rhys thought bitterly.
Broken out of her daydreams Gwen whirled around to face Rhys, guilt clearly written all over her face. “Rhys! I didn’t hear you come in.” Gwen hastily shoved a shirt - a very low-cut shirt - in the bag in hopes of covering up the teddy.
Crossing his arms over his chest, Rhys scowled darkly at Gwen. “You didn't hear me arrive because you were too busy fantasying about two men who will never, ever, be yours.” Rhys had seen the looks his girlfriend had been given Caden.
Hope flared in Gwen; 'He's come back to me!' Maybe, just maybe, Rhys had come to his senses and realized how damn lucky he was to have her in his life. ‘Finally things are starting to look up! I’ll have my loyal Rhys at home just ready and waiting to care for me after a long day of saving the world. Rhys must know by now that he’ll never be enough for me. No, he needs to understand that I need to be free, that I need to be in Jack and Caden’s beds. He'll just have to accept the fact that even though I need the toe-curling passion that they will no doubt give me I’ll still come home to my Rhys.’
Oh yes, Gwen had it all planned out. She'd still have her happy home with Rhys, and he'd take wonderful care of it for her, cooking her favourite foods, making sure her laundry was done and keeping her house clean. Her nights, days and whenever would be spent in mind-blowing passion with Jack and Caden. 'I'll have to buy a pull-out sofa for Rhys to sleep on, though,' she thought. 'Either that, or move into a two-bedroom flat. There's no telling when my men might want to take me right here in my own bed!'
Rhys saw the hope flare in Gwen’s eyes and the next words out of his mouth crushed them into dust. “I’m just here to pick up some of my things. I’ll be moved out by the time you get back.” Normally Rhys Williams was proud of that fact that he was a good man, not the sort of man who took joy in causing pain to others but as he saw Gwen visible flinch at his words. he couldn’t help but feel some grim satisfaction.
The reminder that Rhys was no longer living in their home sent a sharp wave of pain within Gwen and it made her voice sharp. “Rhys, this is ridiculous! We both know that you’ll eventually see what a fool you’re being and you'll come back home." Gwen smiled sweetly at Rhys, softening her tone."You know you belong here with me.”
At one time, in fact not all that long ago, that smile would have lit up Rhys' whole world, but this morning he discovered that that was no longer the case. His blinders were gone and for the first time, he was seeing Gwen for who she truly was and he did not like what he was seeing. “No, Gwen. No, I won’t. You are not the woman I thought you were and I don’t see a future for us anymore.” Rhys told her softly. “I’ll come back after you leave for your mission. Good-bye, Gwen.”
It wasn’t until she heard the sound of the front door closing behind Rhys, their life together and their future that Gwen was able to react. Tears welled up in her eyes as it hit home that she had just been dumped, but the tears didn’t last long as anger filled her. “Fine! I don’t need you, Rhys Williams! I’ll have Jack and Caden waiting on me hand and foot, and I'll be waiting for you when you finally come crawling back to me!” She grabbed the vase from the dresser and flung it against the bedroom wall, watching it explode into jagged shards, just like her life.
*****
Tosh was finding it very hard to pack while a half-naked Caden lounged enticingly on her messy bed. She was finding it harder and harder to keep her eyes averted from the scene of last night's erotic adventure. She had enjoyed the most wonderful night she’d ever had and a soft smile played across her lips as she remembered the feeling of Caden’s strong hands on her body. She could still feel his mouth bringing her endless pleasure and Tosh couldn’t help but picture what it would be like when they made love for the first time.
Seeing the glazed over and distracted look in Tosh’s eyes, Caden crawled across the bed and snagged Tosh’s arm, pulling her down on top him. Tosh's blush darkened as she found herself pressed so tightly against Caden’s bare chest that she could feel his heart beating. Before she could utter a word in protest, Caden swooped in and stole her breath with a toe-curling kiss that robbed her of all coherent thought. The last thing to cross her mind was, ‘I guess I’m going to be late for work.’
*****
The scowl on Owen’s face deepened as he entered the Hub to find Gwen the only other person there; this did not improve his mood one little bit. Without saying a single word, Owen tossed his suitcase down by the door before stomped over and throwing himself into an empty chair.
Before he had gotten to know Rhys as a friend, the do-me eyes Gwen was giving him would have been all Owen needed before they were making sordid use of one of their desks or the couch. Now, however, Owen knew there was no way he ever could or ever would hurt Rhys like that. ‘I’m really starting to hate having a conscience,’ he griped to himself; doing the noble thing was really cramping his role as the team's heartless bastard. ‘If I’m not careful people might to start to think I actually have a heart or worse...' Owen shuddered, 'that I'm a nice guy!’
“Owen, you’re here early,” Gwen purred as she dragged her eyes over Owen’s body. ‘I don’t see the harm in having some fun with Owen while I wait for Jack and Caden to make their move. Maybe seeing me with another man will be the kick in the arse they need!’ Despite her plans for the other two men, Gwen still had a thing for Owen and she couldn’t see the harm in acting on those feelings now. 'After all, for the time being I'm a free woman!'
As a master player Owen easily caught onto her game and decided to have a little fun with her. “Well, seeing as Jack hasn’t been seen since he left with Tea-Boy yesterday, I have a pretty good idea as to why they're not here yet. And, I have a pretty good idea what’s keeping Tosh and that would be the body of a certain dark-haired knight. So, it pretty obvious as to why we're here early as opposed to everyone else.” Owen tried not to snigger as he reminded Gwen of just who Jack and Caden had spent their nights with.
Hate and jealousy flared in Gwen’s eyes and an ugly snarl twisted her lips. ‘Let Ianto and Tosh have their night with Jack and Caden; it'll give them something to think about when they're old and alone! Tonight it will be me in their bed,’ Gwen vowed.
Owen shook his head in disgust as he watched hunger enter Gwen’s eyes and he'd had enough. “Oh come on, Gwen! You can’t tell me you still think you have a chance with Jack or Caden! For god's sake, woman, are you really that delusional? They've both made it absolutely, positively, crystal clear, several times in fact, that they don’t want you! Jack wants the Tea-Boy, not you! Caden can’t see anyone but Tosh; he doesn't pay any attention to you!"
Owen was on a roll and he didn't see the ugly, vicious light in Gwen's eyes. "Let's face it, sweetheart, the only man who ever wanted a life with you was Rhys and you sank that ship but good!”
Fury filled Gwen and she tried to deny the truth behind his words. ‘How dare this miserable little man talk to me like that?’ “How dare you! There’s no need to get snippy with me! You’re just jealous because I no longer want you,” she snarled, her hands balled into tight fists.
Owen burst out in loud guffaws of laughter, rocking back in his chair as his eyes began to water. "I've never..." Owen was gasping for air. "...That's the stupidest..." He wiped tears from his cheeks. "I... You... ha ha haaa!" Owen was laughing so hard that he slid off his chair and landed on the floor, still laughing hysterically. "...jealous!"
Raucous laughter was the last response she expected from Owen and Gwen could only stare in wide-eyed confusion at the sight of Owen, lying on the floor of the Hub and laughing. “And what’s so funny?” Gwen demanded as a pout crossed her face. When she didn't get an immediate response to her question, she snatched up her stapler and threw it at the medic, narrowly missing his head.
Struggling to catch his breath, Owen forced himself to sit up so that he could lean against the nearest desk. With his chest heaving as he struggled for air, his face red and blotchy from rubbing tears from it and his belly muscles aching from laughing so hard, Owen stared up at his co-worker in disbelief. “You're what's so funny! You really do think I still want you! That's just too funny for words! Get over yourself, Cooper! I know I have and from the looks of it, so has Rhys!” Owen felt vindictive pleasure when he saw Gwen flinch at Rhys’ name. Rhys was his friend, and Gwen had hurt him badly, so it didn't bother him to make her uncomfortable.
Crushed by Owen's casual reference to Rhys, Gwen opened and closed her mouth like a fish several times. “You… um... you know about that?” Gwen didn’t like the fact that Rhys had become so close with everyone; Torchwood was supposed to be all hers, a place she could go to get away from him. But more than anything else, she hated the closeness that Rhys had developed with Owen, and she refused to admit that she was feeling jealous of their friendship.
Owen felt a cruel smirk twitch his lips. Since the day she'd started working there, Gwen had acted like she was better than all of them simply because she had a life outside of Torchwood. She never missed an opportunity to remind them that Rhys had done this or that for her, and she took joy in rubbing their faces in her happy relationship. 'Well, it's a relationship that is no more.' “Yeah, I do know all about it, seeing as Rhys is my good friend, and he's staying at my place until he can find a new place to live,” Owen informed her.
Gwen could only stare at Owen as she tried to come up with a good response, but whatever she was going to say was cut off when the Hub alarms signalled someone else's arrival.
'I never thought I'd say this but I could kiss Jack and the Tea-Boy!' Pure relief went through Owen at the sight of Jack, Ianto and Tosh arriving together. He wondered if he should give Jack the heads up that his talk with Gwen had no effect on her. 'I can't believe I'm about to say this but I hope Jack and Tea-Boy act all lovely-dovey with one another on this mission. It might be the only thing that'll finally open up Gwen's eyes.'
Like Tosh and Ianto, Owen was sick and tired of watching Gwen moon over Jack and deliberately and completely missing the fact that the man was in a happy loving, monogamous relationship with Ianto. 'What right does Gwen have to try and destroy something that makes Jack so happy?' Owen couldn't understand Gwen and seriously doubted he ever would.
Ianto fought the urge to whimper in fear and pain as Gwen and Owen's powerful emotions battered relentlessly against his shields. Immediately sensing Ianto's distress, Jack looped his arm around Ianto's waist even as he glanced at Owen first and then glared at Gwen. "What's going on here?" No one could miss the near-toxic level of tension filling the Hub from those two.
Owen took one look at Ianto and instantly felt horrible for causing Ianto pain. "I'm sorry, mate." Early in their careers with Torchwood, Jack had taught them all the basic's of shield control in order to help them keep their minds closed against unfriendly mental invasion. Realising that they needed to help Ianto fight against Gwen's chaotic emotions, Owen and Tosh quickly put their training to good use. It only took a moment for them to 'raise' their shields in order to keep their thoughts from drifting into Ianto's unprotected mind.
Ianto nodded slightly as he felt Owen's thoughts retreat from his mind, which allowed him to focus specifically on keeping Gwen's thoughts out. 'It's getting harder and harder every day.'
Ianto knew that Jack had some idea of how weak his mental shields were, but he was grateful that he was still able to hide just how weak they truly were.
One look at Owen's tense posture and the pure jealousy and hate in Gwen's eyes made it pretty clear to Jack what they were fighting about. 'Who would have ever thought that Owen would become one of Ianto's protectors?' Jack thought with an admiring smile. While he didn't quite understand the strange friendship that had developed between the two men he was grateful that it worked for them. 'Plus, I can't help but wonder if Owen's slight change in attitude has anything to do with his growing relationship with Rhys?'
Jack had been floored - absolutely gobsmacked would actually be a better word for it - by Owen and Rhys' closeness. Truthfully, he was both fascinated and amused whenever he saw how bright and strong the spark between the two men glowed; they were such vastly different people. 'It's gonna be one interesting relationship between the two of them.'
"Oi, are you just going to stand there all day gazing like a love-sick fool at Tea-Boy or are you gonna tell us where the bloody hell we're going?" Owen annoyed voice cut through Jack's thoughts.
Jack saw the way Gwen's eyes narrowed in hate as Owen spoke Ianto's name and he sighed heavily; 'Looks like my talk with Gwen had no effect on her. I honest have no clue as to what I am going to do about her anymore.' He was growing more and more disillusioned by former PC Gwen Cooper; she was no longer the naive young woman he'd hired while standing atop the Millennium Centre watching the sun come up. The problem was, Gwen had the makings of a fine field agent - when she listened to orders, that is - but her irrational and growing hatred of Ianto was causing problems among the team.
Her callous attitude towards Ianto and her thoughtless belief that she knew better than anyone else how to handle certain situations was driving her further away from the rest of the team. In a job where your life often depended upon the actions of your teammates, Gwen's lack of cooperation was guaranteed to cause problems in the field. 'Hopefully, this excursion into the mountains will help us all put aside any problems and learn to look out for one another in the field.'
What Jack hadn't told anyone, not even Ianto, was that one of the reasons he'd agreed to investigate the Brecon Beacons was to see if the team could work together without letting personal feelings getting in the way. He had absolutely no doubt that Ianto, Owen and Tosh could and would work perfectly together and would not let their problems with Gwen cloud their judgement. No, it was Gwen he was testing; he needed to see if she could rise above her petty bitterness and work with his mate, Owen and Tosh. 'If she can't and if she endangers any one of them, more importantly, if she endangers Ianto, I will make sure she never remembers Torchwood!' Jack vowed darkly.
He had let Gwen get away with so much crap - she'd been insolent, late for work, disregarded safety procedures, refused to follow direct orders and so much more - all because she was the newbie. Jack shook his head resolutely; the time for mollycoddling her was over. It was time Gwen Cooper earned her keep on the team without Jack make excuses for her mistakes.
Pushing those thoughts to the back of his mind, Jack smiled winningly at Owen. "The always lovely Kathy Swanson has asked us to check out a serious of unusual disappearances that have taken place over the last few months in the Brecon Beacons. Apparently, there is evidence to suggest that someone on the force maybe helping the perpetrators cover them up their crimes. None of the bodies has ever been found and there's been no trace of their vehicles or personal possessions."
Owen gave a low whistle. "What about on eBay and at the swap meets and boot sales? Has anybody checked out the charity shops?"
Jack shook his head. "Nothing. It's like they simply vanished from the face of the earth. Kathy has asked us to take a look to make sure it's not the Rift before she's forced to voice her suspicions to her superiors," Jack explained.
Ianto and Tosh exchanged bemused looks; they both noticed that Jack had conveniently left the camping part out. Tosh was grateful for Ianto's last-minute suggestion that she pack earplugs for the ride. They both knew that once Owen learned they were going to be camping out in the wilderness, he would spend every breath he had loudly and happily voicing his displeasure.
Owen's caught sight of the looks being exchanged between Ianto and Tosh and his eyes narrowed in suspicion; he turned an accusing glare on Jack. "You're hiding something."
A mockingly innocent look flashed upon Jack's face. "Owen, would I do something like that?" he clapped his hand to his chest as he asked in a hurt tone.
Owen knew Jack far too well to buy into the man's act, and his Owen's eyes narrowed even more. "This better not turn out to be some crazy attempt at team bonding involving camping because if it is, Harkness, I swear, there will be hell to pay!" Owen warned ominously.
Ignoring Owen's threat Jack grinned brightly and clapped his hands together. "All right, kids, let's get this show on the road!"
Anger and jealousy burned deep within Gwen as she watched Jack take Ianto's hand, link their fingers together and then raise their hands to his lips for a gentle kiss. The true smile of pure love that graced Jack's face drove the burning dagger of envy and despair deeper into her heart. 'Enjoy your time with Jack for now, Ianto, because soon I will take my rightful place at Jack's side and in his bed. I promise I will expose your sinister plan and you will be seen for the monster you truly are.'
TBC....