Fic [AI RPF]: Protected Realm (1/4) - Adam/Kris/Katy
Title: Protected Realm - Chapter One
Series: Becoming A Universe Within
Author: choose2live
Rating: NC-17
Pairing: Adam/Kris/Katy in slash, het, and poly combinations.
Length: ~20,000
Disclaimer: This is a complete work of fiction. I don’t know these people, and if you do, for the love of God go away.
Summary: Embarking upon their new romantic relationship, Adam, Kris and Katy revel in its pleasure and novelty, taking shelter in each other, until they are faced with a reality that includes unexpected challenges. Navigating the pressure from outside forces will only be half their battle; the most important ones will be those waged from within. Third in a series.
Author's Notes: As always, this story owes so much to my beta lovetoseverus, who has served as sounding board, critic, and friend, and whose insights into my characters both humble and inspire me. Thank you for continuing with me on this journey! I also want to thank kradamite for lending a fresh set of eyes when I couldn't see the forest for the trees.
Finally, many thanks go to peculiar_mind for creating this beautiful banner for the story, and with very limited time and resources. Head over and tell her how lovely it is!
This story was originally posted for the first kradambigbang.
CHAPTER ONE
Adam had never been very good at resisting impulses.
He booked the cabin in Tahoe before he really thought about asking Katy and Kris. It had just felt like the right move, after the endless weeks of promotion and press junkets that had given them but scant days together. Adam had seen the light at the end of the tunnel - beyond television appearances, Jingle Balls, Hanukkah and Christmas and New Year’s Eve - and jumped on the opportunity for a vacation, feeling rather like a drowning man going after a life preserver.
A moment’s consideration, however, had given him pause. Kris had been just as busy as Adam; perhaps he and Katy would want some time alone. There was family in Arkansas that they hadn’t seen in months. And despite the oversized bed now occupying most of Kris and Katy’s bedroom, Adam couldn’t help but wonder if, in the intervening time, they’d reconsidered the wisdom of their relationship with him.
When he’d hesitantly explained that he thought it might be nice to spend the week together, however, they’d immediately responded that they couldn’t wait. And Kris and Katy had cut short their New Year’s plans, changed their plane tickets, and flown out to meet him in snowy California on the first day of the year.
When he opened the front door to see them standing there, grinning with cheeks flushed from the cold, he shoved the doubt away.
Cold air whooshed in as he found himself with arms full of two petite bodies, snuggled in tight, and he couldn’t help but laugh. “I’ve missed you so much!” Adam exclaimed, pressing his face into their hair. “It feels like forever since I’ve seen you.”
“Missed you missed you missed you,” Kris said into his neck, then leaned up and kissed him, sloppy and happy.
Katy was laughing her bright, carefree laugh, and Adam twirled her in a circle before leaning down to taste the sound. Her mouth felt clear like water, warm like home.
“Come in, it’s freezing!” There was a jumbled rush to get luggage inside and into the bedroom, brushing off snow flurries that had dusted bags and shoulders.
Kris attached himself like a limpet as soon as their hands were free, and Adam hugged him back, his smile widening uncontrollably at the feeling of having Kris in his arms again. They all made their way into the den and collapsed on the sofa in a tangle of arms and legs.
They remained there for awhile, just murmuring and touching; trying, it felt to Adam, to be as close as possible without having to bother with removing clothing. He reveled in it, in the warm bodies around him, touching and stroking whoever he reached first, absorbing the unconditional affection like a sponge. It felt so good, after weeks of being paraded around, asked questions about how different he was, and being greeted with skepticism or veiled hostility.
“I missed you guys so much,” he repeated, sighing into Kris’ hair. He felt Katy’s lips against his temple, her fingers running soothingly along his scalp.
“It’s over now,” Kris said. “We’re together now. Things will be calm for awhile.”
“Yeah,” Adam sighed, then laughed semi-hysterically, wondering if he would know what to do with himself when every minute wasn’t planned for him.
When the initial euphoria had worn down a bit, their bodies turning languid, Katy looked at their surroundings. “This is a beautiful place,” she said, taking in the vaulted ceiling and the large picture window overlooking the lake. “Good choice.”
Kris’ gaze was fixed on the fireplace, in which rested a pile of slightly scorched logs and a mound of ash. “We should build a fire.”
Adam grimaced. “You’ll have to. I lack the requisite man skills.”
Katy giggled, and Kris got up to poke at the hearth. “Is there any kindling?”
“I burned a whole newspaper,” Adam said, “but the logs wouldn’t catch.”
He thought he saw a grin on Kris’ face before Kris turned away, rearranging the logs and digging around in the area by the hearth. Adam looked at Katy. “While Caveman there builds his fire, let’s gather provisions.” He waggled his eyebrows. “S’mores.”
***
It was only the second time he’d been able to wake up with them. No alarm clocks, no pressure, just the slow awareness that came with the morning.
A beam of light hit his eyes, and Adam shifted onto his side, away from the sun filtering through the curtains. He could feel the warmth from two bodies on either side of him, and blinked his eyes open to see Katy’s face on the pillow before him. She looked perfectly innocent, pale lashes resting on an apple cheek, which began to stir in response to his movement. Her eyes opened and met his, and she smiled, warm and happy.
“Morn-” a yawn cracked into her greeting, “-ing,” she said, blinking at him sleepily. He returned the smile, then reached out and pushed away a strand of hair that had fallen in her face. Her hand came up from beneath the covers and caught his; her fingers were tiny against his own, but they were warm and strong.
They lay there for awhile, quiet, drowsing a little with their hands intertwined. Then Adam shifted onto his back, turning his head to the other side.
Kris lay on his stomach, face slack in sleep, mouth slightly open. The light piercing through the curtains transformed his hair into a golden halo, and Adam’s hand reached out of its own accord to trace down the impossibly smooth skin of Kris’ cheek, until stubble tickled his fingertips.
Kris’ mouth worked a little, twitching in response to Adam’s touch, and then his eyes blinked open. When his gaze fell on Adam, a slow smile broke on his face, and he pressed his forehead against Adam’s shoulder as he stretched.
Adam slid an arm around Kris’ waist, pulling the trim body flush against his, grinning like mad. He could feel Kris’ smile against his skin, and breathed in the scent of Kris’ hair. He didn’t know if this happiness would ever grow commonplace, even if he were able to wake up next to Kris for the rest of his life.
A petite body curled up against his back, and Adam released Kris enough to let him kiss his wife good morning over Adam’s shoulder. Katy dropped another kiss on Adam’s cheek, then rolled out of bed and padded towards the bathroom.
Adam slid his hand up Kris’ back and kissed him, long and deep. Time, he reminded himself; he had time, and he was going to use it. A small moan came from Kris, and Adam lost himself in the kiss, in the warm slide of tongues and the tug of fingers in his hair.
Their morning erections bumped together, and Adam let out a muffled groan, automatically moving towards the pressure. Kris drew back a little, taking a second before pushing his hips towards Adam, their knees bumping as they searched for good leverage. Adam reached down and ran a hand down Kris’ thigh, pulling Kris’ leg over his hip. Kris immediately caught on and pressed their hips together, drawing sounds from both of them, and Adam wanted nothing more than to roll Kris over and take him.
He kissed him instead, and rolled their hips together before reaching between them and gathering them both in his hand. At the first stroke, Kris’ mouth separated from his with a gasp, and they panted against each other while Adam jerked them off.
Then Kris seemed to regain his faculties a bit, and he brought his hand between them, letting it fall on Adam’s. Adam let him feel the movement for a moment, then loosened his grip to allow Kris to take the lead. Their fingers stroked over each other as Kris explored, and Adam watched Kris’ face through hooded eyes, loving the little furrow of concentration on his brow.
Kris’ hand wasn’t quite big enough to get a good grip on both of them, but he wrapped strong fingers around Adam and gave an experimental tug. Adam gave a little gasp of approval, and tried to reciprocate, but Kris batted him away. He ran his hand down Kris’ back instead, feeling the sheen of sweat, the flex of muscle where his back met his ass.
It took Kris a moment to find a rhythm, the angle clearly unfamiliar; but even the irregular strokes caused him to shiver, each a potent reminder that it was Kris touching him, Kris learning, Kris wanting to give him pleasure. Adam shuddered under Kris’ hands, guiding him with clutching fingers and whispers of approval, giving over to the sensations of Kris’ eager touch.
Then Kris’ eyes found him, gaze intent and focused. Adam gasped, finding himself suddenly on the brink, and as he thrust into Kris’ hand he saw a flare of gratification in caramel eyes. Leaning forward, Adam kissed him, messy and passionate as he came into Kris’ hand.
When he opened his eyes again, both of them were breathing hard, and Adam smiled lazily. He watched Kris’ eyes burn as he lifted the strong hand to his mouth, and as Adam began to lick it clean, there was a low gasp behind him.
He turned and saw Katy standing there, face flushed and lips parted. She had put on a robe, and clutched at it tightly, staring down at them.
Adam felt a bit caught out, and wondered if this was allowed, if he’d violated an unspoken rule by having Kris without Katy. They had never laid down any guidelines for that sort of thing, and now he was unsure.
But Katy didn’t look upset, and Kris sat up a little and beckoned to her, eyes heated. Suddenly feeling a bit extraneous, Adam rolled out of the bed to take his turn in the bathroom.
“Adam.” Kris’ voice was low and rough, and Adam turned to meet his gaze. “Come right back, okay?” Adam nodded, caught up in the intensity of Kris’ eyes, then turned away as Katy climbed back in to the bed.
In the bathroom, Adam took care of business and wiped himself clean of his morning orgasm. He quickly washed his face and brushed his teeth, then grimaced as he caught sight of his reflection. Extreme bedhead, and face bare, pockmarked and freckled. He hesitated for a moment, remembering Kris’ words. But he gave in, taking the time to shave and rub on foundation, before grabbing his hairbrush to attempt to tame the mess.
When he finally emerged, Kris was flushed and panting, and Katy had a pleased smile as she ran her hand down Kris’ side. They looked up when he approached, and Kris’ gaze took in his face.
Kris got up on his knees, gloriously messy from the results of his orgasm, and took Adam’s face in his hands. “You took too long,” he said softly, then kissed him, long and slow.
Adam felt himself melt into the kiss, his hands sliding along Kris’ waist, pulling their bodies together. They fit together perfectly, and it seemed as if Kris knew exactly how to touch him, speak to him, to make him feel cherished. Maybe he’d always known. It was times like this when Adam felt the doubts slip away, until all that existed was the moment.
Kris drew away, slowly, staring at Adam for a long minute with his warm, focused gaze. Then he was slipping off the bed and walking away.
It took a concerted effort to not stare after him, but Adam looked at the bed instead, and saw Katy smiling up at him affectionately.
At her gesture, he got in next to her, but despite her warm expression found himself unsure about what to do next. He didn’t know how to handle a woman; wasn’t sure what she expected. And if he was honest, he was a little jealous that it had been she to bring Kris off that morning rather than himself.
But she took the lead, leaning over to kiss him softly and snuggle up next to him. He let his hands drift over her, feeling her softness and curves, curious about how different her body felt under his hands. She made an approving noise when his hand skimmed her breast, and he cupped it gently, testing its weight in his palm.
Watching the way her flesh conformed to his, he asked quietly, “What do you like?” He knew about women in theory, but he knew enough about people to know that they were all different. And that women were more complicated than men.
“I like that,” she replied, smiling and arching lazily into his palm. “I like a lot of things. Do what you feel comfortable with, Adam. I’ll let you know if something doesn’t feel good.” She kissed him lightly. “But it’s unlikely.”
He smiled crookedly, unsure if her words helped or not; but then she kissed him again, and he stopped worrying about it. Kissing was universal, natural and easy, and he found his hands moving of their own accord while their mouths explored each other.
The bed shifted, and Katy broke away with a soft sound. Adam opened his eyes to see Kris kneeling over them, staring with dark eyes. “That,” he said roughly, “is the hottest thing I have ever seen.”
***
Snow was not an unfamiliar thing to Katy. Arkansas typically saw a few snowfalls each winter, and she had always enjoyed the highlight that nature placed on the hills, before the next day’s sun melted it away. It was different in California, however; the thick white covered nearly everything, almost otherworldly. It made sounds both crisper and muted, as if the natural reverberation had been stripped away, letting her hear every crunch-squeak of boots in the snow.
Skiing was an entirely new experience. The clothes were big and bulky, the boots stiff, and she felt like she had lead weights strapped to her feet. Lead weights that moved and tangled with each other of their own accord.
But she listened to Adam’s instructions, and managed to navigate her way on and off the bunny hill lift without disaster. She was just feeling a little rush of triumph at her success when there was a “Whoaa!” from behind. Turning her head, she was just in time to see Kris closing in on her, and they went down in a heap.
Adam’s laughter rang out clearly in the thin, cold air; Katy looked up at him, a tall shock of black against an almost painfully blue sky. His eyes matched its color as he leaned down to help them untangle themselves.
“The most important thing you will ever learn about skiing,” Adam said, laughter still present in his face, “is how to stop. That will be our next lesson.”
He helped them up - “Here, move your legs downhill, it’s sooo much easier to get up,” “Make sure your skis are perpendicular to the slope, or else you’ll start moving as soon as you stand up!” - and resumed their instruction.
It was far from their only fall, but Katy found that she didn’t really mind. The snow was soft, if cold, and they weren’t the only ones struggling on the beginner slope. Adam wasn’t an advanced skier himself, but he was a patient teacher, and they were all kept warm by their laughter.
They stopped for lunch after only a few runs, but Katy found that she was starving as they retreated to the lodge. The dining area was set up cafeteria style, and she was a bit dismayed to find that the seating was, also. Adam quietly slipped on a pair of sunglasses and a hat, and Kris kept his sunglasses on, as well. Though they tried to find an isolated place to sit, the room was crowded, and the seats around them filled. Adam kept his head down until the group across from them began speaking to each other in German, and Katy didn’t attempt to hide her relief.
They enjoyed their lunch after that, and even managed some conversation with their tablemates. Once they were finished, Katy felt refreshed and ready to tackle the slopes again.
It felt easier in the afternoon, the instruction and break working together to make them more comfortable on their skis. Katy was beginning to get a feel for the snow, and how her balance affected direction and speed, as the run began to fall into shadow.
At the end of the day, Adam declared them ready to ski down without help. Before they could protest, he was zipping down the slope, bright blue scarf streaming behind him. Kris and Katy looked at each other, laughed, and followed.
They didn’t fall once.
*
Kris tilted his head back with a groan and sank deeper into the hot tub. “People do that for fun, huh?” He cracked an eye open and glared playfully at Adam.
Adam laughed, stretching out and taking up far more room than he should. “Admit it, you had a good time.”
A smile quirked Kris’ lips, and his eyes slid shut again. “I did, if having fun means being incredibly sore. Then I had so much fun I might never move again.”
Adam’s answering chuckle was darker now. “Oh no, baby, that day is still to come.” He caught Katy’s eye and winked.
She felt a rush of heat, beyond that of the hot water, and held her breath as she looked at Kris. His eyes flew open wide, gaze fixing on Adam’s face. He bit his lip, and Katy could see the curiosity there, the silent request, before his gaze dropped and he shifted uncertainly.
Adam sat up and moved closer to Kris, sliding a hand behind Kris’ back before bending to murmur in his ear. Katy couldn’t hear above the rumble of the jets, but Kris’ eyes shot up to meet Adam’s, naked want in them. Adam’s eyes were darkened with an answering desire, his face warmed with affection.
Katy watched as the world contracted to just the two of them, and a shiver came over her that she couldn’t identify. Her breath caught when Adam lowered his head, first kissing Kris’ forehead, then his cheekbone, and finally his mouth.
The kiss lingered, Kris pliant under Adam in a way she hadn’t seen before, seeming to just take Adam in. She inhaled shakily, and Adam’s hand came up to cup Kris’ face, thumb stroking lightly at Kris’ cheek before pulling away.
Kris’ eyes were dark with a familiar heat when he opened them to look at Adam again, and the shyness of before was no longer present. Adam smiled down at him, warm and confident. “Soon,” he murmured.
Kris nodded.
***
It was a couple of days before Adam was able to stop hoarding moments. He wasn’t used to it; didn’t know how to turn off the part of his brain that was constantly aware of how long they had left together before they said goodbye.
But this time, there was no alarm clock to wake them up too early and drive them from each other. Instead of feeling as if he should take advantage of every minute, every look, every caress, he found himself beginning to relax a bit. To let time flow around them, carrying them from moment to moment instead of fighting it.
***
Katy woke slowly, becoming aware of the sun and the particular stillness in the air that signified the afternoon. Yawning, she looked over at the clock, pleased to see that she still had time to get ready for their dinner reservations.
She sat up and swung her legs over the side of the bed, shaking off the last vestiges of her nap. Skiing was fun, but exhausting. Running a hand through her hair, she stood and headed for the bathroom.
She pushed the door open, and jumped when it revealed Adam standing at the counter, his cosmetics bag open in front of him. “Oh!” she said. “I’m sorry. I didn’t know you were in here.” Feeling flustered, she began to pull the door shut.
“Katy, it’s okay,” Adam said, and she could hear laughter in his voice. “Come on in.” Then he paused. “Unless… you want me to leave,” only then sounding a bit awkward.
“No, no.” Katy entered again, going to the other sink and finding her toothbrush. She felt a little ridiculous; it was just Adam, who was clearly comfortable sharing space with anyone, and it wasn’t like she and Kris didn’t walk in on each other all the time.
Shaking off the discomfort, she finished brushing and got her own makeup out, but found herself watching Adam apply eyeshadow out of the corner of her eye. It was a part of him she’d never seen before, though Kris had; she’d always laughed at the stories of Kris helping Adam do his hair, but now it felt personal; intimate in a different way.
It was, she realized, not so different from when she and Kris were on their honeymoon; when it wasn’t the big events that made their marriage seem real, but the small, everyday ones. She felt a smile curve her lips even as amazement and a bit of awe curled in her belly. This was normal, now; doing her makeup with Adam would become a regular occurrence, and sharing personal space would cease to be weird.
They were really doing this.
Adam caught her eye in the mirror and raised a perfectly groomed eyebrow. “What are you smiling about?” he asked, voice lilting and amused.
Katy grinned sheepishly. “Thinking about how much this reminds me of my honeymoon, actually.”
The other eyebrow rose. “Kris did his makeup with you?”
She rolled her eyes and laughed. “That would be the day! No, just… redefining boundaries, you know? Or eliminating them, I guess.”
He considered her for a moment, face growing serious. “Yeah,” he murmured, actions stilling. Then he broke her gaze and started digging in his bag, emerging with an eyeliner and applying it with silent concentration.
***
It was snowing their final night in Tahoe.
They almost didn’t need to discuss it; the three of them gathered up blankets and went onto the covered porch, curling up together on the sofa there. Adam held them both, curled up against his shoulders, their breathing warm against his neck.
There was no sound; not so much as a breeze or a passing car to disturb the quiet. The only light was the moon, diffused by clouds and making the flakes glow as they fell.
Adam soaked it in, appreciating every nuance: the softness of the couch beneath him, the contrast of cold air with warm blankets and bodies, the weight of Kris and Katy’s heads on his shoulders. He wasn’t used to such stillness in his relationships; they tended to be loud, and extroverted, and generally fun, but also demanding.
Yet now, so much of his life was chaotic and public, and he wondered if it made him gravitate towards the stability that Kris and Katy practically radiated.
He smiled a little to himself. He’d always gravitated towards stability; he’d just never found it before.
Even now, he wasn’t sure. What they were doing was dangerous, and fraught with complications, and he knew he would lose if a split had to occur.
But for now, they were together, and Adam resolved to enjoy it for as long as it lasted.
Chapter Two
Master Post
Series: Becoming A Universe Within
Author: choose2live
Rating: NC-17
Pairing: Adam/Kris/Katy in slash, het, and poly combinations.
Length: ~20,000
Disclaimer: This is a complete work of fiction. I don’t know these people, and if you do, for the love of God go away.
Summary: Embarking upon their new romantic relationship, Adam, Kris and Katy revel in its pleasure and novelty, taking shelter in each other, until they are faced with a reality that includes unexpected challenges. Navigating the pressure from outside forces will only be half their battle; the most important ones will be those waged from within. Third in a series.
Author's Notes: As always, this story owes so much to my beta lovetoseverus, who has served as sounding board, critic, and friend, and whose insights into my characters both humble and inspire me. Thank you for continuing with me on this journey! I also want to thank kradamite for lending a fresh set of eyes when I couldn't see the forest for the trees.
Finally, many thanks go to peculiar_mind for creating this beautiful banner for the story, and with very limited time and resources. Head over and tell her how lovely it is!
This story was originally posted for the first kradambigbang.
CHAPTER ONE
Adam had never been very good at resisting impulses.
He booked the cabin in Tahoe before he really thought about asking Katy and Kris. It had just felt like the right move, after the endless weeks of promotion and press junkets that had given them but scant days together. Adam had seen the light at the end of the tunnel - beyond television appearances, Jingle Balls, Hanukkah and Christmas and New Year’s Eve - and jumped on the opportunity for a vacation, feeling rather like a drowning man going after a life preserver.
A moment’s consideration, however, had given him pause. Kris had been just as busy as Adam; perhaps he and Katy would want some time alone. There was family in Arkansas that they hadn’t seen in months. And despite the oversized bed now occupying most of Kris and Katy’s bedroom, Adam couldn’t help but wonder if, in the intervening time, they’d reconsidered the wisdom of their relationship with him.
When he’d hesitantly explained that he thought it might be nice to spend the week together, however, they’d immediately responded that they couldn’t wait. And Kris and Katy had cut short their New Year’s plans, changed their plane tickets, and flown out to meet him in snowy California on the first day of the year.
When he opened the front door to see them standing there, grinning with cheeks flushed from the cold, he shoved the doubt away.
Cold air whooshed in as he found himself with arms full of two petite bodies, snuggled in tight, and he couldn’t help but laugh. “I’ve missed you so much!” Adam exclaimed, pressing his face into their hair. “It feels like forever since I’ve seen you.”
“Missed you missed you missed you,” Kris said into his neck, then leaned up and kissed him, sloppy and happy.
Katy was laughing her bright, carefree laugh, and Adam twirled her in a circle before leaning down to taste the sound. Her mouth felt clear like water, warm like home.
“Come in, it’s freezing!” There was a jumbled rush to get luggage inside and into the bedroom, brushing off snow flurries that had dusted bags and shoulders.
Kris attached himself like a limpet as soon as their hands were free, and Adam hugged him back, his smile widening uncontrollably at the feeling of having Kris in his arms again. They all made their way into the den and collapsed on the sofa in a tangle of arms and legs.
They remained there for awhile, just murmuring and touching; trying, it felt to Adam, to be as close as possible without having to bother with removing clothing. He reveled in it, in the warm bodies around him, touching and stroking whoever he reached first, absorbing the unconditional affection like a sponge. It felt so good, after weeks of being paraded around, asked questions about how different he was, and being greeted with skepticism or veiled hostility.
“I missed you guys so much,” he repeated, sighing into Kris’ hair. He felt Katy’s lips against his temple, her fingers running soothingly along his scalp.
“It’s over now,” Kris said. “We’re together now. Things will be calm for awhile.”
“Yeah,” Adam sighed, then laughed semi-hysterically, wondering if he would know what to do with himself when every minute wasn’t planned for him.
When the initial euphoria had worn down a bit, their bodies turning languid, Katy looked at their surroundings. “This is a beautiful place,” she said, taking in the vaulted ceiling and the large picture window overlooking the lake. “Good choice.”
Kris’ gaze was fixed on the fireplace, in which rested a pile of slightly scorched logs and a mound of ash. “We should build a fire.”
Adam grimaced. “You’ll have to. I lack the requisite man skills.”
Katy giggled, and Kris got up to poke at the hearth. “Is there any kindling?”
“I burned a whole newspaper,” Adam said, “but the logs wouldn’t catch.”
He thought he saw a grin on Kris’ face before Kris turned away, rearranging the logs and digging around in the area by the hearth. Adam looked at Katy. “While Caveman there builds his fire, let’s gather provisions.” He waggled his eyebrows. “S’mores.”
***
It was only the second time he’d been able to wake up with them. No alarm clocks, no pressure, just the slow awareness that came with the morning.
A beam of light hit his eyes, and Adam shifted onto his side, away from the sun filtering through the curtains. He could feel the warmth from two bodies on either side of him, and blinked his eyes open to see Katy’s face on the pillow before him. She looked perfectly innocent, pale lashes resting on an apple cheek, which began to stir in response to his movement. Her eyes opened and met his, and she smiled, warm and happy.
“Morn-” a yawn cracked into her greeting, “-ing,” she said, blinking at him sleepily. He returned the smile, then reached out and pushed away a strand of hair that had fallen in her face. Her hand came up from beneath the covers and caught his; her fingers were tiny against his own, but they were warm and strong.
They lay there for awhile, quiet, drowsing a little with their hands intertwined. Then Adam shifted onto his back, turning his head to the other side.
Kris lay on his stomach, face slack in sleep, mouth slightly open. The light piercing through the curtains transformed his hair into a golden halo, and Adam’s hand reached out of its own accord to trace down the impossibly smooth skin of Kris’ cheek, until stubble tickled his fingertips.
Kris’ mouth worked a little, twitching in response to Adam’s touch, and then his eyes blinked open. When his gaze fell on Adam, a slow smile broke on his face, and he pressed his forehead against Adam’s shoulder as he stretched.
Adam slid an arm around Kris’ waist, pulling the trim body flush against his, grinning like mad. He could feel Kris’ smile against his skin, and breathed in the scent of Kris’ hair. He didn’t know if this happiness would ever grow commonplace, even if he were able to wake up next to Kris for the rest of his life.
A petite body curled up against his back, and Adam released Kris enough to let him kiss his wife good morning over Adam’s shoulder. Katy dropped another kiss on Adam’s cheek, then rolled out of bed and padded towards the bathroom.
Adam slid his hand up Kris’ back and kissed him, long and deep. Time, he reminded himself; he had time, and he was going to use it. A small moan came from Kris, and Adam lost himself in the kiss, in the warm slide of tongues and the tug of fingers in his hair.
Their morning erections bumped together, and Adam let out a muffled groan, automatically moving towards the pressure. Kris drew back a little, taking a second before pushing his hips towards Adam, their knees bumping as they searched for good leverage. Adam reached down and ran a hand down Kris’ thigh, pulling Kris’ leg over his hip. Kris immediately caught on and pressed their hips together, drawing sounds from both of them, and Adam wanted nothing more than to roll Kris over and take him.
He kissed him instead, and rolled their hips together before reaching between them and gathering them both in his hand. At the first stroke, Kris’ mouth separated from his with a gasp, and they panted against each other while Adam jerked them off.
Then Kris seemed to regain his faculties a bit, and he brought his hand between them, letting it fall on Adam’s. Adam let him feel the movement for a moment, then loosened his grip to allow Kris to take the lead. Their fingers stroked over each other as Kris explored, and Adam watched Kris’ face through hooded eyes, loving the little furrow of concentration on his brow.
Kris’ hand wasn’t quite big enough to get a good grip on both of them, but he wrapped strong fingers around Adam and gave an experimental tug. Adam gave a little gasp of approval, and tried to reciprocate, but Kris batted him away. He ran his hand down Kris’ back instead, feeling the sheen of sweat, the flex of muscle where his back met his ass.
It took Kris a moment to find a rhythm, the angle clearly unfamiliar; but even the irregular strokes caused him to shiver, each a potent reminder that it was Kris touching him, Kris learning, Kris wanting to give him pleasure. Adam shuddered under Kris’ hands, guiding him with clutching fingers and whispers of approval, giving over to the sensations of Kris’ eager touch.
Then Kris’ eyes found him, gaze intent and focused. Adam gasped, finding himself suddenly on the brink, and as he thrust into Kris’ hand he saw a flare of gratification in caramel eyes. Leaning forward, Adam kissed him, messy and passionate as he came into Kris’ hand.
When he opened his eyes again, both of them were breathing hard, and Adam smiled lazily. He watched Kris’ eyes burn as he lifted the strong hand to his mouth, and as Adam began to lick it clean, there was a low gasp behind him.
He turned and saw Katy standing there, face flushed and lips parted. She had put on a robe, and clutched at it tightly, staring down at them.
Adam felt a bit caught out, and wondered if this was allowed, if he’d violated an unspoken rule by having Kris without Katy. They had never laid down any guidelines for that sort of thing, and now he was unsure.
But Katy didn’t look upset, and Kris sat up a little and beckoned to her, eyes heated. Suddenly feeling a bit extraneous, Adam rolled out of the bed to take his turn in the bathroom.
“Adam.” Kris’ voice was low and rough, and Adam turned to meet his gaze. “Come right back, okay?” Adam nodded, caught up in the intensity of Kris’ eyes, then turned away as Katy climbed back in to the bed.
In the bathroom, Adam took care of business and wiped himself clean of his morning orgasm. He quickly washed his face and brushed his teeth, then grimaced as he caught sight of his reflection. Extreme bedhead, and face bare, pockmarked and freckled. He hesitated for a moment, remembering Kris’ words. But he gave in, taking the time to shave and rub on foundation, before grabbing his hairbrush to attempt to tame the mess.
When he finally emerged, Kris was flushed and panting, and Katy had a pleased smile as she ran her hand down Kris’ side. They looked up when he approached, and Kris’ gaze took in his face.
Kris got up on his knees, gloriously messy from the results of his orgasm, and took Adam’s face in his hands. “You took too long,” he said softly, then kissed him, long and slow.
Adam felt himself melt into the kiss, his hands sliding along Kris’ waist, pulling their bodies together. They fit together perfectly, and it seemed as if Kris knew exactly how to touch him, speak to him, to make him feel cherished. Maybe he’d always known. It was times like this when Adam felt the doubts slip away, until all that existed was the moment.
Kris drew away, slowly, staring at Adam for a long minute with his warm, focused gaze. Then he was slipping off the bed and walking away.
It took a concerted effort to not stare after him, but Adam looked at the bed instead, and saw Katy smiling up at him affectionately.
At her gesture, he got in next to her, but despite her warm expression found himself unsure about what to do next. He didn’t know how to handle a woman; wasn’t sure what she expected. And if he was honest, he was a little jealous that it had been she to bring Kris off that morning rather than himself.
But she took the lead, leaning over to kiss him softly and snuggle up next to him. He let his hands drift over her, feeling her softness and curves, curious about how different her body felt under his hands. She made an approving noise when his hand skimmed her breast, and he cupped it gently, testing its weight in his palm.
Watching the way her flesh conformed to his, he asked quietly, “What do you like?” He knew about women in theory, but he knew enough about people to know that they were all different. And that women were more complicated than men.
“I like that,” she replied, smiling and arching lazily into his palm. “I like a lot of things. Do what you feel comfortable with, Adam. I’ll let you know if something doesn’t feel good.” She kissed him lightly. “But it’s unlikely.”
He smiled crookedly, unsure if her words helped or not; but then she kissed him again, and he stopped worrying about it. Kissing was universal, natural and easy, and he found his hands moving of their own accord while their mouths explored each other.
The bed shifted, and Katy broke away with a soft sound. Adam opened his eyes to see Kris kneeling over them, staring with dark eyes. “That,” he said roughly, “is the hottest thing I have ever seen.”
***
Snow was not an unfamiliar thing to Katy. Arkansas typically saw a few snowfalls each winter, and she had always enjoyed the highlight that nature placed on the hills, before the next day’s sun melted it away. It was different in California, however; the thick white covered nearly everything, almost otherworldly. It made sounds both crisper and muted, as if the natural reverberation had been stripped away, letting her hear every crunch-squeak of boots in the snow.
Skiing was an entirely new experience. The clothes were big and bulky, the boots stiff, and she felt like she had lead weights strapped to her feet. Lead weights that moved and tangled with each other of their own accord.
But she listened to Adam’s instructions, and managed to navigate her way on and off the bunny hill lift without disaster. She was just feeling a little rush of triumph at her success when there was a “Whoaa!” from behind. Turning her head, she was just in time to see Kris closing in on her, and they went down in a heap.
Adam’s laughter rang out clearly in the thin, cold air; Katy looked up at him, a tall shock of black against an almost painfully blue sky. His eyes matched its color as he leaned down to help them untangle themselves.
“The most important thing you will ever learn about skiing,” Adam said, laughter still present in his face, “is how to stop. That will be our next lesson.”
He helped them up - “Here, move your legs downhill, it’s sooo much easier to get up,” “Make sure your skis are perpendicular to the slope, or else you’ll start moving as soon as you stand up!” - and resumed their instruction.
It was far from their only fall, but Katy found that she didn’t really mind. The snow was soft, if cold, and they weren’t the only ones struggling on the beginner slope. Adam wasn’t an advanced skier himself, but he was a patient teacher, and they were all kept warm by their laughter.
They stopped for lunch after only a few runs, but Katy found that she was starving as they retreated to the lodge. The dining area was set up cafeteria style, and she was a bit dismayed to find that the seating was, also. Adam quietly slipped on a pair of sunglasses and a hat, and Kris kept his sunglasses on, as well. Though they tried to find an isolated place to sit, the room was crowded, and the seats around them filled. Adam kept his head down until the group across from them began speaking to each other in German, and Katy didn’t attempt to hide her relief.
They enjoyed their lunch after that, and even managed some conversation with their tablemates. Once they were finished, Katy felt refreshed and ready to tackle the slopes again.
It felt easier in the afternoon, the instruction and break working together to make them more comfortable on their skis. Katy was beginning to get a feel for the snow, and how her balance affected direction and speed, as the run began to fall into shadow.
At the end of the day, Adam declared them ready to ski down without help. Before they could protest, he was zipping down the slope, bright blue scarf streaming behind him. Kris and Katy looked at each other, laughed, and followed.
They didn’t fall once.
*
Kris tilted his head back with a groan and sank deeper into the hot tub. “People do that for fun, huh?” He cracked an eye open and glared playfully at Adam.
Adam laughed, stretching out and taking up far more room than he should. “Admit it, you had a good time.”
A smile quirked Kris’ lips, and his eyes slid shut again. “I did, if having fun means being incredibly sore. Then I had so much fun I might never move again.”
Adam’s answering chuckle was darker now. “Oh no, baby, that day is still to come.” He caught Katy’s eye and winked.
She felt a rush of heat, beyond that of the hot water, and held her breath as she looked at Kris. His eyes flew open wide, gaze fixing on Adam’s face. He bit his lip, and Katy could see the curiosity there, the silent request, before his gaze dropped and he shifted uncertainly.
Adam sat up and moved closer to Kris, sliding a hand behind Kris’ back before bending to murmur in his ear. Katy couldn’t hear above the rumble of the jets, but Kris’ eyes shot up to meet Adam’s, naked want in them. Adam’s eyes were darkened with an answering desire, his face warmed with affection.
Katy watched as the world contracted to just the two of them, and a shiver came over her that she couldn’t identify. Her breath caught when Adam lowered his head, first kissing Kris’ forehead, then his cheekbone, and finally his mouth.
The kiss lingered, Kris pliant under Adam in a way she hadn’t seen before, seeming to just take Adam in. She inhaled shakily, and Adam’s hand came up to cup Kris’ face, thumb stroking lightly at Kris’ cheek before pulling away.
Kris’ eyes were dark with a familiar heat when he opened them to look at Adam again, and the shyness of before was no longer present. Adam smiled down at him, warm and confident. “Soon,” he murmured.
Kris nodded.
***
It was a couple of days before Adam was able to stop hoarding moments. He wasn’t used to it; didn’t know how to turn off the part of his brain that was constantly aware of how long they had left together before they said goodbye.
But this time, there was no alarm clock to wake them up too early and drive them from each other. Instead of feeling as if he should take advantage of every minute, every look, every caress, he found himself beginning to relax a bit. To let time flow around them, carrying them from moment to moment instead of fighting it.
***
Katy woke slowly, becoming aware of the sun and the particular stillness in the air that signified the afternoon. Yawning, she looked over at the clock, pleased to see that she still had time to get ready for their dinner reservations.
She sat up and swung her legs over the side of the bed, shaking off the last vestiges of her nap. Skiing was fun, but exhausting. Running a hand through her hair, she stood and headed for the bathroom.
She pushed the door open, and jumped when it revealed Adam standing at the counter, his cosmetics bag open in front of him. “Oh!” she said. “I’m sorry. I didn’t know you were in here.” Feeling flustered, she began to pull the door shut.
“Katy, it’s okay,” Adam said, and she could hear laughter in his voice. “Come on in.” Then he paused. “Unless… you want me to leave,” only then sounding a bit awkward.
“No, no.” Katy entered again, going to the other sink and finding her toothbrush. She felt a little ridiculous; it was just Adam, who was clearly comfortable sharing space with anyone, and it wasn’t like she and Kris didn’t walk in on each other all the time.
Shaking off the discomfort, she finished brushing and got her own makeup out, but found herself watching Adam apply eyeshadow out of the corner of her eye. It was a part of him she’d never seen before, though Kris had; she’d always laughed at the stories of Kris helping Adam do his hair, but now it felt personal; intimate in a different way.
It was, she realized, not so different from when she and Kris were on their honeymoon; when it wasn’t the big events that made their marriage seem real, but the small, everyday ones. She felt a smile curve her lips even as amazement and a bit of awe curled in her belly. This was normal, now; doing her makeup with Adam would become a regular occurrence, and sharing personal space would cease to be weird.
They were really doing this.
Adam caught her eye in the mirror and raised a perfectly groomed eyebrow. “What are you smiling about?” he asked, voice lilting and amused.
Katy grinned sheepishly. “Thinking about how much this reminds me of my honeymoon, actually.”
The other eyebrow rose. “Kris did his makeup with you?”
She rolled her eyes and laughed. “That would be the day! No, just… redefining boundaries, you know? Or eliminating them, I guess.”
He considered her for a moment, face growing serious. “Yeah,” he murmured, actions stilling. Then he broke her gaze and started digging in his bag, emerging with an eyeliner and applying it with silent concentration.
***
It was snowing their final night in Tahoe.
They almost didn’t need to discuss it; the three of them gathered up blankets and went onto the covered porch, curling up together on the sofa there. Adam held them both, curled up against his shoulders, their breathing warm against his neck.
There was no sound; not so much as a breeze or a passing car to disturb the quiet. The only light was the moon, diffused by clouds and making the flakes glow as they fell.
Adam soaked it in, appreciating every nuance: the softness of the couch beneath him, the contrast of cold air with warm blankets and bodies, the weight of Kris and Katy’s heads on his shoulders. He wasn’t used to such stillness in his relationships; they tended to be loud, and extroverted, and generally fun, but also demanding.
Yet now, so much of his life was chaotic and public, and he wondered if it made him gravitate towards the stability that Kris and Katy practically radiated.
He smiled a little to himself. He’d always gravitated towards stability; he’d just never found it before.
Even now, he wasn’t sure. What they were doing was dangerous, and fraught with complications, and he knew he would lose if a split had to occur.
But for now, they were together, and Adam resolved to enjoy it for as long as it lasted.
Chapter Two
Master Post