FIC: You're Fired 2/3 fandom: Dark Angel (Alec/Max/Logan, NC-17)
Masterpost
Previous Chapter: p1
part 2
Neither talked as Alec wheeled Logan to the guest bathroom. At the door, Logan brushed aside Alec’s hand. “I got it from here.”
Alec ignored him, and pushed his wheelchair into the bathroom. “That’s okay, I probably should wash my hands too.”
Logan sputtered but didn’t say anything.
Alec moved out from behind Logan. Standing by the sink he started to wash his hands. Once he was done Alec grabbed a towel and started to dry his hands, before turning to stare down at Logan.
The look on Logan’s face made the corners of his mouth twitch into a smile. Remembering how the man tasted Alec broke out into a full lecherous grin; his eyes lowering to Logan’s crotch as he stated. “It’s nice to see some things are still in working order.”
Logan seemed a bit shocked then closed his eyes. When he opened them again Logan’s entire demeanor was off as he sat up straight. Any flush of post orgasmic excitement was gone, only to be replaced by what Alec guessed was livid anger.
It was clear Logan was furious, but unwilling to draw attention and announce what happened to Max; through clenched teeth he demanded in a low voice, “What the hell was that? Some demented pity fuck?”
Alec didn’t even get to respond before Logan clarified. “Excuse me, hand job? Seriously Alec, what the hell? First Max playing amateur dominatrix, and you…”
“And me what?” Alec bent over bracing himself on the arms of Logan’s chair in order to lean further into Logan’s face. Alec searched Logan’s eyes looking behind the anger, and asked, “Does it really matter? The fact is you were getting off on Max spanking your ass. Can’t say I didn’t enjoy it myself. Or couldn’t you feel how hard I was?”
Flustered, Logan swallowed; Alec enjoyed it as Logan flushed, turning a darker shade of red.
Alec slowly licked his lips and stated. “Since we both enjoyed it I don’t see the problem.” Then winked and stood getting out of Logan’s way. “Better wash up. Max is waiting.”
Alec leaned back against the door jamb while he waited for Logan to finish. Alec examined the room and realized the dimensions were off. The sink slightly lower yet it jutted out further out from the wall with no cabinet underneath, allowing Logan to wheel in closer to the sink. The toilet was also higher, a closer equivalent to Logan’s wheelchair. It also was further from the sink and closer to the wall, where on each wall hung a bar rail that Logan could use for support. Even the door jamb he was leaning against, its width was wider than an average door. Everything around him was handicap accessible.
The more Alec thought about it the more he realized everything in Logan’s apartment had been remodeled to accommodate someone in a wheelchair. Although in good shape Alec noted that none of it was recent. Obviously that meant it had been done shortly after Logan was shot the first time. It wasn’t surprising due to the length of time Logan had been confined to a wheelchair, but Alec hadn’t paid attention to or realized all the modifications Logan had to make just to make his life easier.
After drying his hands Logan was about to wheel around to leave the bathroom, but Alec moved and grabbed the handles on the back of the wheelchair. “Don’t. You keep putting pressure on your wrist means it’s not going to heal.”
Snidely, Logan whipped, “Right, unlike you I’m just an ordinary human.” Then he sat there sulking.
Alec didn’t know what to say because it was true. Instead he wheeled Logan back to the dining room and over to the end of the table. Max was already sitting at one side of Logan’s intended spot and Alec would sit on the other.
Throughout dinner Logan was quiet. Only Max and Alec’s voice filled the room. They trivially bantered back and forth about passing the spaghetti, sauce, bread, or Max asking for a refill. Logan’s voice politely supplying a yes or no to every question Max asked.
Once everyone stopped picking at their dinner Max stood and started to collect the dishes. “I’ll clean up. You should go shower, and Alec can give you a hand.”
Alec didn’t bother to wait; standing, he wheeled Logan away from the table and headed toward the master bedroom. Inside the bedroom he made a beeline straight to the bathroom. At the threshold Logan cursed and told him to stop. Simmering with anger, through clenched teeth Logan said, “I don’t need your help. I got it from here.”
Hesitating, Alec glanced around the bathroom. It was a shower tub with a bench over the tub’s rim and a padded chair inside with bars on the wall to help Logan brace himself. He would have left Logan to his own devices and let him shower in peace, but he knew with a broken wrist Logan wouldn’t be able to lift and support himself enough to transfer chairs.
He was about to tell Logan when Max came up behind them. “Don’t forget to use the shower sleeve.” and pointed to a blue plastic bag that’d be used to cover Logan’s hand to keep the cast from getting wet.
Logan gawked at her in disbelief.
Max quickly whipped, “It was in Bling’s notes, he said sometimes you forget.”
Logan’s voice started to rise, “I didn’t forget! I choose not to use it.”
“But you should, it’ll keep your cast from getting wet.” Max shrugged and turned away, leaving them alone.
Irritated, Logan hung his head. “I’m not going to be able to get rid of either of you, am I?”
Alec simply supplied. “Nope. Go ahead and take off your shirt then you can put this thing on.”
“I already told you I can do this myself…”
“Support your weight one-handed? I don’t think so. And if you don’t mind I’d rather not be on the receiving end of Max’s hand. I don’t think I’d enjoy it as much as you did.”
Startled, Logan didn’t move, but it was easy to see Logan was embarrassed by what he said.
“Then again maybe I would…” Logan looked up as Alec bent down until they were eye level before he continued. “I certainly enjoyed watching.” Alec rolled his tongue over his lips wondering if he should say anything else. “I felt it each time you met Max’s hand. Even through the sweats it felt like your ass was on fire. I wanted to see for myself, to feel it against my hand…”
Alec watched as Logan swallowed nervously, his chest heaving in a pant. Alec’s nose told him without looking; the musky scent he had picked up was Logan’s excitement. The tip of his tongue ran along his bottom lip as he looked down to see the evidence of what his senses were telling him - Logan hard and tenting his sweats.
A second later Logan ineffectively tried to cover his lap as he choked out Alec’s name. It didn’t deter Alec as he met Logan’s gaze. “You did, didn’t you? You liked Max spanking you?” Alec zeroed in on the dark dusty rose that crept up Logan’s neck and peaked at his ear tips.
“Okay maybe not the discipline behind why, but the physical aspect - the spanking itself you liked?” Alec waited for Logan to deny what he was saying instead he watched Logan’s flush turn a deeper shade. “I liked having you over my lap.” Though he was nervous about asking, afraid of what the answer would be; he had to know. “Did you like being on my lap? Or was it just Max?”
Logan searched his eyes at the question.
Though Logan was looking for answers Alec could easily read Logan’s face. He could see the doubt written on Logan’s face that he was having a difficult time believing Alec wasn’t bullshitting him, that Alec was actually interested in him. He had taken things too far to try and hide now, so he allowed Logan to see the truth in his eyes. Then he waited, to see if Logan would.
By the time Logan understood and deciphered what Alec was asking and telling him, he blurted out, “Max.”
Alec wasn’t sure if it was a question, answer, or a statement. Deciding to take a chance, Alec answered honestly. “I like Max…a lot,” then he added to clarify, “like I like you.”
Logan inhaled and exhaled, his eyes flitting over Alec’s face. Suddenly Logan reached out and grabbed him around the neck, pulling him until they were lip to lip.
It was a hard, open kiss. There was no mistaking his intentions as Logan’s tongue swept inside Alec’s mouth. His tongue brushing along his own tongue; Alec was passive for about five seconds before he actively started to kiss back. His tongue danced, twisting around to seek out the unique flavor that was Logan as they each tried to devour the other.
The kiss continued and became more erratic as they dueled until Logan dominated the kiss. Taking control, Logan held and wouldn’t let go of Alec’s head; angling him right where Logan wanted him. Happily Alec conceded enjoying each thrust of Logan’s tongue as he picked up a rhythm.
Abruptly Logan stopped and pushed him away, and angrily demanded. “You want Max like that?”
Thrown by the question and Logan’s anger, Alec mutely nodded yes. He wasn’t about to deny he was attracted to both of them; he had already stated he was.
But Logan wasn’t paying attention and lashed out, nearly shouting. “You didn’t answer me before; Max put you up to this? Am I, is this some sort of pity fuck?”
“I think the only one having a pity party is you.”
Alec turned to see Max was standing in the doorway and he apologetically blurted out her name. “Max…”
Stepping closer she reached out, and brushed a thumb across his lips. “It’s a good look on you Alec.” Glancing at Logan, her eyes dropping to his lips she added “On both of you.”
Alec didn’t see any anger, only sadness and maybe disappointment in her eyes.
Logan piped up, his anger evaporated and his voice was full of remorse. “Max it’s not what it looks…” then he stopped himself. “Okay, it is what it looks like, but it’s not. I didn’t, I wouldn’t have…”
Alec closed his eyes at Logan’s confessed guilt. Maybe he should have been angry, but instead Alec was only surprised how Logan’s words stung so that he felt a pang of hurt.
“But you really should when it’s offered by the right person. I might have if Alec had approached me.” Alec looked at Max, his eyes bugging out, shocked to hear what Max had suggested, that she had ever been genuinely interested in him.
Apparently he wasn’t the only one as Logan sputtered clearly taken aback. The deep shades of red surfacing this time wasn’t embarrassment or excitement, but anger as Logan looked between them.
When Logan opened his mouth Alec expected Logan’s wrath, instead his voice had an eerie calmness, albeit sharp. “Seems like you two need to talk. No time like the present, so if you’ll excuse me I’ll leave you to it.”
Contrite, Max said, “No, actually it looks like you and Alec need to talk. I was the one who interrupted. So I’ll go.”
Alec looked between them realizing they were both just as fucked up as he was. Both were ready to sacrifice and play martyr for the other. Exasperated, he decided enough was enough. “No, I think we need to talk. Logan, if you really have to go to the bathroom, fine. We’ll wait, but I think it’s time you two -we- the three of us talk this out, tonight.”
“Since when do you care if we talk? Mr. ‘I’m always-all-right’.”
“Jeez Max, are you always going to bust my balls?”
“When they need busting then yeah, count on it.”
Logan interrupted, by coughing. When they both turned to him he burst out laughing, but he didn’t stop and continued to get louder.
Alec leaned into Max, asking, “What kind of meds is he on?”
Frowning she replied. “He hasn’t taken them yet.”
Logan bent over in the throes of laughter and held up his hand, silently telling them to stop or to hold on - Alec wasn’t sure.
Alec looked at Max, she only shrugged. It was obvious that like him, she had no idea what was so funny and had set Logan off. Max nudged him and inclined her head indicating she’d wait in the bedroom.
He nodded, and knelt down to face Logan. Alec couldn’t deny he was confused by Logan’s reaction but at the same time amusement tugged at his heart. Alec took in his fill while Logan’s eyes were closed; scrunched up as his body rocked in his chair with uproarious bouts of laughter.
Pursing his lips, Alec enjoyed the sight, it had been months since he’d seen or heard Logan laugh - really laugh.
Finally Logan’s bouts simmered down to chuckles and he opened his eyes.
Alec smiled and held Logan’s gaze. “You okay?”
Logan exhaled, his smile faltering as he answered with Alec’s typical response. “I’m always all right.”
Alec’s lips slid into a smirk that didn’t reach his eyes. “Touché. So do you really have to go to the bathroom?”
Alec suspected Logan didn’t and instead he was trying to decide if hiding in the bathroom just to avoid them would be worth it. Logan shook his head, no, before he faced Alec again.
“Alright then,” Alec stood and moved around to grab the chair’s bar and push Logan. “Let’s go talk. Max is waiting for us in the bedroom.”
Alec didn’t wait for Logan’s reply; instead he pushed Logan into the bedroom to see Max was pacing nervously.
Suddenly Max stopped and looked in their direction, her eyes on Logan. Alec wasn’t surprised and could see that she had overheard their brief conversation. Although whatever she saw in Logan’s face didn’t ease her worry. Looking up she met his eyes, looking for some solace.
He smiled, but couldn’t hide his own worry that he had pushed things too far. He could have ignored Logan’s reaction to getting spanked or pretended it never happened. Instead he pushed, enamored by Logan’s reaction until his own desire clouded his judgment; possibly destroying any relationship he may have had a chance at, one that hadn’t even formed. Worse, maybe fucking up Max and Logan’s relationship - again.
He could and would never forget he had been the one to help Manticore deliver the damn virus. Because of his actions Max and Logan had never been together since then. It didn’t matter that he didn’t really know Max or that he was just following orders - she was an X5, and he knew in his heart she was never the real threat - Manticore was.
He was a trained soldier, albeit one with a weakness; he had a conscience. One Alec tried to hide from Manticore and he had worked hard to keep it that way. The consequences whenever he slipped and didn’t follow orders were always harsh. A prime example was when he tried to warn Rachel; the end result was he thought he had killed Rachel and had been removed to psy-ops for re-indoctrination.
His weakness was something Renfro had reminded him of and threatened him for before she assigned him to be Max’s breeding partner.
From the moment he met Max, he liked her. She had seen past his designation to the person he was. Max had even given him his name. She was trying to be sarcastic although it didn’t matter, he liked the name and liked her even more because of it. Despite his inner conflicts Alec had carried out his mission. He could have said something, could have warned her, but in the end he didn’t.
Because of his inactions, she and Logan had to endure being physically apart for the last couple of years. He felt bad especially after he got to know them. Saw firsthand how much they loved each other and he was the one that put a wedge between them. His guilt only increased when Max saved his life after White had injected him with that damn chip.
Regardless of his actions under Manticore’s orders, both of them had taken Alec into their circle and had forgiven him. Treated him as a friend - someone they could trust to stand at their side and have their six. Not that he ever told them, but their friendship was more important to him than he had ever expected. He counted on them being there, they were his unit.
Taking in their silence, Alec worried he was about to lose everything he hadn’t known he wanted. Assessing the situation he quickly decided to do whatever he could to fix things between them then he’d step aside. Do what he did best, tease and flirt but never let it be anything more than that. He’d be exactly what they both already knew, ‘Mr. I’m all-right’.
Internally Alec gathered the painful emotions and started erecting a wall creating a distance between them. He’d do everything he could to bring them back together then he’d leave and be how he was before, ‘unit-less’ and closer to the solitary soldier Manticore created.
What he needed to do was divert their attention so that they’d both forget Max’s suggestion that she had any interest in him. Alec could already see Logan wanted to forget their kiss and everything else. The quickest way to derail Logan’s thoughts was to address the elephant in the room - Max’s secret.
“So, Max, maybe you should start?”
Both Max and Logan looked at him, clearly not following his train of thought.
Alec ignored their confused looks and quickly plunged ahead before he lost his nerve. “It’s time to lay things out, right? Maybe you should let Logan in on the truth that the virus is no longer a deterrent between you.”
Max’s mouth gaped open, but it was Logan’s gasp of shock he heard. Max only stared at him, hurt that he would break her confidence before she turned her eyes back to Logan.
It pained Alec to see her so hurt knowing he was the one causing it, but it was only the beginning, as Logan stared at her his hurt and confusion clearly evident.
He watched as Max and Logan locked eyes, the silence building, tears trailing down Max’s cheek as she trembled under Logan’s gaze. The intensity was deafening, giving away how he had miscalculated. Instead of bringing them closer he could see the distance between them increasing.
Ignoring the dense silence, Alec tried to explain. “She touched you by accident. When you didn’t react she went to Carr to run some tests. She found out Carr’s results just before Joshua called.” Max looked at him wondering how he knew when she found out. Alec replied answering her silent question. “I put two and two together, but it was the look on your face, shock turned to shear bliss. Though like you, I forgot all about it when Joshua called.”
Alec pointedly looked at Logan. “That’s when we found out you were shot. I didn’t figure it out about the call and find out about the virus until Max lost it while we were waiting during your second surgery. She never said anything because she’s punishing herself - thinks it was her fault. She still harbors guilt from the first time, now it’s only multiplied by a hundred.”
Logan rolled closer, his eyes never left Max’s as he spoke directly to her. “Max it was never your fault.”
“You and I know that, but Max needs reminders.”
Logan nodded. “I can do that; remind you daily.”
Abruptly the vibe in the room shifted and Alec took notice feeling the difference, it was working. “Even when she hovers and gets overprotective?”
There was no denying the conviction in Logan’s voice, it was like a vow: “Every day, no matter what. I lost you once when you died in my arms - I can’t go through that again. I don’t care what happens as long as you’re at my side.”
Max didn’t say anything; neither of them did as they stared longingly at each other, having a rather long-drawn out ‘silent’ conversation.
The corners of Max’s mouth slid into a smile when Logan asked, “So no virus?”
Cheerfully Alec responded. “Not any more. You’re the reason why she took all of Bling’s orders so seriously. She’s determined to do whatever she can to help you walk again.”
At that Logan turned to Alec, “Wait a minute, are you telling me Bling actually ordered Max to spank me?”
Alec shrugged, “Yeah. Alright, he didn’t specifically state for it to be part of your daily regimen, but it was highly implied and I quote, ‘While I’m gone do whatever you can to keep him on schedule and boost his morale. Even if that means pulling out any tricks you have including spanking his royal ass.’” Alec shrugged, “that and we could hear you; he said he just finished a rough session with you, and was rubbing his hands as if he had just finished…”
Flushed Logan’s mouth dropped, dumbfounded he stated. “A massage. He gave me a massage, worked out several knots that were aching.”
Speechless, Alec didn’t have to look to know Max was just as taken aback as he was. Thinking back to everything they did, what he did, Alec could only utter a pathetic “huh, didn’t think of that.”
Logan captured Alec’s gaze and demanded, “And the other?”
Embarrassed, Alec rubbed his neck and looked away trying to think of a plausible answer.
Max supplied the answer for him. “He wanted to.”
“Max, about that…”
“Don’t, it’s okay, really. I had an idea of where this were heading. Earlier when I was in the kitchen I could smell and hear what was going on. And Logan that was all Alec, no one prompted him to do that. It’s simple really. He likes you - a lot.”
Without missing a beat Logan added, “And you, apparently.”
Alec looked up when he realized there was no hint of animosity in their voices from either of them; surprised Alec glanced between them only to see he was suddenly their focus.
“Apparently,” Max smirked and crossed her arms triumphantly as she looked him up and down.
“You know he asked me. It was a bit redundant at the time since I was physically responding, but I never did answer.”
“Who asked you what?” Max inquired.
“Alec. He asked me if I liked being spanked.”
Logan turned to Max and reached out for her hand. Wide-eyed Max followed his movement until Logan’s fingers touched hers. Slowly she uncrossed her arms and let Logan entwine their fingers. “He was right. I wasn’t thrilled with the discipline, but the spanking itself, he was right. I liked it.”
Alec held his breath waiting for Max’s reaction. Finally, Alec exhaled in relief when he saw the faintest movements coming from Max as she responded to Logan’s touch. Though initially hesitant with each breath, Max flexed her fingers to fully envelop Logan’s hand within her own. His relief was tangible, pleased that Max and Logan were going to be okay - he just needed to get out of there and let them work the rest out.
“It’s been a long time - not since Valerie…”
’Valerie?’ Alec had no idea who Valerie was, but Max quickly supplied the answer before he could ask. “Your ex-wife?”
Logan nodded as his thumb leisurely brushed back and forth across the back of Max’s palm. “We,” Logan licked his lips as he stared into Max’s face. “Even before we got married we were involved in some light playing. One of my favorites was when she’d…” the word caught in his throat as a pink hue crept up Logan’s neck.
Max finished it for him, but it was more of a question. “She’d spank you?”
Logan bobbed his head in answer.
Leave it to Max to repeat the same question Logan already answered. “And you liked it?”
This time Logan didn’t nod but only continued to stare into Max’s eyes. Though whatever Max saw in Logan’s eyes appeared to be enough as she started to smile then voiced Logan’s answer more as a statement rather than a question. “A lot!”
Logan responded with a wider grin, their eyes dancing in merriment.
That was his cue, without waiting for any good-byes Alec stealthily made his way toward the door.
He was halfway there when Logan barked out an order. “Stop!”
Max quickly stated, “Alec, you said it yourself we need to talk this out, tonight.”
With his guard up and firmly in place, Alec forcibly relaxed his shoulders; his lips slid into an easy smile as he turned around and raised an eyebrow in query as he confronted them; ignoring the fact that they were still holding hands as a couple. “Thought we just did? I think you should be able to handle things from here…” then he let his voice drop, his smile widened into an un-bashful challenge, “Unless you’ve forgotten how and need some pointers to get things started?” He wanted to kick himself as quickly as it left his mouth, hearing and registering the lecherous insinuation within his voice.
Somber, Logan asked, “Manticore teach you guys that?
“What, overeager horny tom catting? If there were any classes they had them after I left.”
Logan snorted, “No, to cut and run?”
“Oh that, yeah, self-preservation.”
“Do you want him to go?”
Max shook her head no, then verbally said it out loud as Logan refused to take his eyes off of him.
A second later Logan replied, “Good.” Then his eyes softened as he addressed Alec. “Alec, we’re not going to force you to stay, but I don’t want you to leave either.”
Internally he panicked and could feel his façade cracking, but it didn’t stop him from demanding, “What the hell do you want from me?”
Logan simply answered, “For you to stick around.”
Genuinely confused Alec looked between Max and Logan before he blurted out, “Why?”
Logan nodded, the corners of his mouth lifting into a small smile, “Fair question.” Taking a deep breath, Logan plunged ahead. “It’s not a secret that I love Max. Not to her or to you. I have for a long time. By the time you came into the picture - after almost killing me; I won’t lie or sugarcoat it for you Alec, back then I was angry, really mad and most of it was directed at you. Initially, it was because of the virus, but I got over that part. I understood you were under Manticore’s orders. However for the most part I was still stuck in this damn chair and what made it worse was I couldn’t touch Max, but you could. I won’t deny it, I was jealous. You looked too good next to Max, it was like you fit. It took me awhile; all right a long time to see things differently. To see you and look past that mask you’re always hiding behind, but I did.”
Alec snorted, even as emotions pushed through the crack. “I think you need new glasses. Did you forget already, it wasn’t even an hour ago you accused me of offering you a pity fuck?” Alec heard the pained accusation, swallowed to collect himself and purposely changed his pitch. “So is that what this is about? You changed your mind?”
“Alec, what I want is for you to stay.”
“What, to watch you two?”
“Yes, but no, for the three of us…” Logan trailed off as if he was suddenly unsure of what to say. Max stood at Logan’s side, Alec watched vividly as their hands flexed and realized they were silently communicating.
Max took up where Logan trailed off. “It’s pretty simple Alec; the three of us together in everything. We’re already an ‘us’, a unit. We have been for a long time.”
Alec bristled against Max’s suggestion; it was too close to what he wanted. “That’s bullshit. You two are in love, you’re a couple. Haven’t you heard three’s a crowd? Trust me; I wouldn’t fit, we don’t lo…. I’d be that obnoxious third wheel everyone wants to get rid of.”
“That’s not true. We don’t want to get rid of you. Alec what I feel for you… it’s true my emotions may not be on the same level of what I feel for Max or Max for me, but we want you to stay. To give what we do feel for you a chance to grow. This isn’t about how hot you are or what the sex would be like.”
Max whipped out, “Though it’d be hot - really hot!”
Alec’s eyes bugged out at Max as she smirked daring him to contradict her statement - he couldn’t.
After a moment her eyes softened to match her voice. “Alec, earlier I heard you guys in the bathroom. It was Logan that didn’t believe you, that you really wanted him, and you did. It’s the same thing here, only it’s you that’s having a hard time believing that either of us wants you. But look around; we’re not going anywhere, we’re not trying to run away.”
“I don’t get it, you don’t have the virus anymore, shouldn’t you be, you know, getting busy?”
Max and Logan shared a look and smiled, Max answered as she gazed lovingly at Logan. “We will, but like I said no more running. I’m right where I want to be, and we both want you to stay.”
Slowly, as if he was a frightened animal and maybe he was, Max held out her hand in an invitation. “Come on Alec, stay, give us a chance…”
Next~
Previous Chapter: p1
part 2
Neither talked as Alec wheeled Logan to the guest bathroom. At the door, Logan brushed aside Alec’s hand. “I got it from here.”
Alec ignored him, and pushed his wheelchair into the bathroom. “That’s okay, I probably should wash my hands too.”
Logan sputtered but didn’t say anything.
Alec moved out from behind Logan. Standing by the sink he started to wash his hands. Once he was done Alec grabbed a towel and started to dry his hands, before turning to stare down at Logan.
The look on Logan’s face made the corners of his mouth twitch into a smile. Remembering how the man tasted Alec broke out into a full lecherous grin; his eyes lowering to Logan’s crotch as he stated. “It’s nice to see some things are still in working order.”
Logan seemed a bit shocked then closed his eyes. When he opened them again Logan’s entire demeanor was off as he sat up straight. Any flush of post orgasmic excitement was gone, only to be replaced by what Alec guessed was livid anger.
It was clear Logan was furious, but unwilling to draw attention and announce what happened to Max; through clenched teeth he demanded in a low voice, “What the hell was that? Some demented pity fuck?”
Alec didn’t even get to respond before Logan clarified. “Excuse me, hand job? Seriously Alec, what the hell? First Max playing amateur dominatrix, and you…”
“And me what?” Alec bent over bracing himself on the arms of Logan’s chair in order to lean further into Logan’s face. Alec searched Logan’s eyes looking behind the anger, and asked, “Does it really matter? The fact is you were getting off on Max spanking your ass. Can’t say I didn’t enjoy it myself. Or couldn’t you feel how hard I was?”
Flustered, Logan swallowed; Alec enjoyed it as Logan flushed, turning a darker shade of red.
Alec slowly licked his lips and stated. “Since we both enjoyed it I don’t see the problem.” Then winked and stood getting out of Logan’s way. “Better wash up. Max is waiting.”
Alec leaned back against the door jamb while he waited for Logan to finish. Alec examined the room and realized the dimensions were off. The sink slightly lower yet it jutted out further out from the wall with no cabinet underneath, allowing Logan to wheel in closer to the sink. The toilet was also higher, a closer equivalent to Logan’s wheelchair. It also was further from the sink and closer to the wall, where on each wall hung a bar rail that Logan could use for support. Even the door jamb he was leaning against, its width was wider than an average door. Everything around him was handicap accessible.
The more Alec thought about it the more he realized everything in Logan’s apartment had been remodeled to accommodate someone in a wheelchair. Although in good shape Alec noted that none of it was recent. Obviously that meant it had been done shortly after Logan was shot the first time. It wasn’t surprising due to the length of time Logan had been confined to a wheelchair, but Alec hadn’t paid attention to or realized all the modifications Logan had to make just to make his life easier.
After drying his hands Logan was about to wheel around to leave the bathroom, but Alec moved and grabbed the handles on the back of the wheelchair. “Don’t. You keep putting pressure on your wrist means it’s not going to heal.”
Snidely, Logan whipped, “Right, unlike you I’m just an ordinary human.” Then he sat there sulking.
Alec didn’t know what to say because it was true. Instead he wheeled Logan back to the dining room and over to the end of the table. Max was already sitting at one side of Logan’s intended spot and Alec would sit on the other.
Throughout dinner Logan was quiet. Only Max and Alec’s voice filled the room. They trivially bantered back and forth about passing the spaghetti, sauce, bread, or Max asking for a refill. Logan’s voice politely supplying a yes or no to every question Max asked.
Once everyone stopped picking at their dinner Max stood and started to collect the dishes. “I’ll clean up. You should go shower, and Alec can give you a hand.”
Alec didn’t bother to wait; standing, he wheeled Logan away from the table and headed toward the master bedroom. Inside the bedroom he made a beeline straight to the bathroom. At the threshold Logan cursed and told him to stop. Simmering with anger, through clenched teeth Logan said, “I don’t need your help. I got it from here.”
Hesitating, Alec glanced around the bathroom. It was a shower tub with a bench over the tub’s rim and a padded chair inside with bars on the wall to help Logan brace himself. He would have left Logan to his own devices and let him shower in peace, but he knew with a broken wrist Logan wouldn’t be able to lift and support himself enough to transfer chairs.
He was about to tell Logan when Max came up behind them. “Don’t forget to use the shower sleeve.” and pointed to a blue plastic bag that’d be used to cover Logan’s hand to keep the cast from getting wet.
Logan gawked at her in disbelief.
Max quickly whipped, “It was in Bling’s notes, he said sometimes you forget.”
Logan’s voice started to rise, “I didn’t forget! I choose not to use it.”
“But you should, it’ll keep your cast from getting wet.” Max shrugged and turned away, leaving them alone.
Irritated, Logan hung his head. “I’m not going to be able to get rid of either of you, am I?”
Alec simply supplied. “Nope. Go ahead and take off your shirt then you can put this thing on.”
“I already told you I can do this myself…”
“Support your weight one-handed? I don’t think so. And if you don’t mind I’d rather not be on the receiving end of Max’s hand. I don’t think I’d enjoy it as much as you did.”
Startled, Logan didn’t move, but it was easy to see Logan was embarrassed by what he said.
“Then again maybe I would…” Logan looked up as Alec bent down until they were eye level before he continued. “I certainly enjoyed watching.” Alec rolled his tongue over his lips wondering if he should say anything else. “I felt it each time you met Max’s hand. Even through the sweats it felt like your ass was on fire. I wanted to see for myself, to feel it against my hand…”
Alec watched as Logan swallowed nervously, his chest heaving in a pant. Alec’s nose told him without looking; the musky scent he had picked up was Logan’s excitement. The tip of his tongue ran along his bottom lip as he looked down to see the evidence of what his senses were telling him - Logan hard and tenting his sweats.
A second later Logan ineffectively tried to cover his lap as he choked out Alec’s name. It didn’t deter Alec as he met Logan’s gaze. “You did, didn’t you? You liked Max spanking you?” Alec zeroed in on the dark dusty rose that crept up Logan’s neck and peaked at his ear tips.
“Okay maybe not the discipline behind why, but the physical aspect - the spanking itself you liked?” Alec waited for Logan to deny what he was saying instead he watched Logan’s flush turn a deeper shade. “I liked having you over my lap.” Though he was nervous about asking, afraid of what the answer would be; he had to know. “Did you like being on my lap? Or was it just Max?”
Logan searched his eyes at the question.
Though Logan was looking for answers Alec could easily read Logan’s face. He could see the doubt written on Logan’s face that he was having a difficult time believing Alec wasn’t bullshitting him, that Alec was actually interested in him. He had taken things too far to try and hide now, so he allowed Logan to see the truth in his eyes. Then he waited, to see if Logan would.
By the time Logan understood and deciphered what Alec was asking and telling him, he blurted out, “Max.”
Alec wasn’t sure if it was a question, answer, or a statement. Deciding to take a chance, Alec answered honestly. “I like Max…a lot,” then he added to clarify, “like I like you.”
Logan inhaled and exhaled, his eyes flitting over Alec’s face. Suddenly Logan reached out and grabbed him around the neck, pulling him until they were lip to lip.
It was a hard, open kiss. There was no mistaking his intentions as Logan’s tongue swept inside Alec’s mouth. His tongue brushing along his own tongue; Alec was passive for about five seconds before he actively started to kiss back. His tongue danced, twisting around to seek out the unique flavor that was Logan as they each tried to devour the other.
The kiss continued and became more erratic as they dueled until Logan dominated the kiss. Taking control, Logan held and wouldn’t let go of Alec’s head; angling him right where Logan wanted him. Happily Alec conceded enjoying each thrust of Logan’s tongue as he picked up a rhythm.
Abruptly Logan stopped and pushed him away, and angrily demanded. “You want Max like that?”
Thrown by the question and Logan’s anger, Alec mutely nodded yes. He wasn’t about to deny he was attracted to both of them; he had already stated he was.
But Logan wasn’t paying attention and lashed out, nearly shouting. “You didn’t answer me before; Max put you up to this? Am I, is this some sort of pity fuck?”
“I think the only one having a pity party is you.”
Alec turned to see Max was standing in the doorway and he apologetically blurted out her name. “Max…”
Stepping closer she reached out, and brushed a thumb across his lips. “It’s a good look on you Alec.” Glancing at Logan, her eyes dropping to his lips she added “On both of you.”
Alec didn’t see any anger, only sadness and maybe disappointment in her eyes.
Logan piped up, his anger evaporated and his voice was full of remorse. “Max it’s not what it looks…” then he stopped himself. “Okay, it is what it looks like, but it’s not. I didn’t, I wouldn’t have…”
Alec closed his eyes at Logan’s confessed guilt. Maybe he should have been angry, but instead Alec was only surprised how Logan’s words stung so that he felt a pang of hurt.
“But you really should when it’s offered by the right person. I might have if Alec had approached me.” Alec looked at Max, his eyes bugging out, shocked to hear what Max had suggested, that she had ever been genuinely interested in him.
Apparently he wasn’t the only one as Logan sputtered clearly taken aback. The deep shades of red surfacing this time wasn’t embarrassment or excitement, but anger as Logan looked between them.
When Logan opened his mouth Alec expected Logan’s wrath, instead his voice had an eerie calmness, albeit sharp. “Seems like you two need to talk. No time like the present, so if you’ll excuse me I’ll leave you to it.”
Contrite, Max said, “No, actually it looks like you and Alec need to talk. I was the one who interrupted. So I’ll go.”
Alec looked between them realizing they were both just as fucked up as he was. Both were ready to sacrifice and play martyr for the other. Exasperated, he decided enough was enough. “No, I think we need to talk. Logan, if you really have to go to the bathroom, fine. We’ll wait, but I think it’s time you two -we- the three of us talk this out, tonight.”
“Since when do you care if we talk? Mr. ‘I’m always-all-right’.”
“Jeez Max, are you always going to bust my balls?”
“When they need busting then yeah, count on it.”
Logan interrupted, by coughing. When they both turned to him he burst out laughing, but he didn’t stop and continued to get louder.
Alec leaned into Max, asking, “What kind of meds is he on?”
Frowning she replied. “He hasn’t taken them yet.”
Logan bent over in the throes of laughter and held up his hand, silently telling them to stop or to hold on - Alec wasn’t sure.
Alec looked at Max, she only shrugged. It was obvious that like him, she had no idea what was so funny and had set Logan off. Max nudged him and inclined her head indicating she’d wait in the bedroom.
He nodded, and knelt down to face Logan. Alec couldn’t deny he was confused by Logan’s reaction but at the same time amusement tugged at his heart. Alec took in his fill while Logan’s eyes were closed; scrunched up as his body rocked in his chair with uproarious bouts of laughter.
Pursing his lips, Alec enjoyed the sight, it had been months since he’d seen or heard Logan laugh - really laugh.
Finally Logan’s bouts simmered down to chuckles and he opened his eyes.
Alec smiled and held Logan’s gaze. “You okay?”
Logan exhaled, his smile faltering as he answered with Alec’s typical response. “I’m always all right.”
Alec’s lips slid into a smirk that didn’t reach his eyes. “Touché. So do you really have to go to the bathroom?”
Alec suspected Logan didn’t and instead he was trying to decide if hiding in the bathroom just to avoid them would be worth it. Logan shook his head, no, before he faced Alec again.
“Alright then,” Alec stood and moved around to grab the chair’s bar and push Logan. “Let’s go talk. Max is waiting for us in the bedroom.”
Alec didn’t wait for Logan’s reply; instead he pushed Logan into the bedroom to see Max was pacing nervously.
Suddenly Max stopped and looked in their direction, her eyes on Logan. Alec wasn’t surprised and could see that she had overheard their brief conversation. Although whatever she saw in Logan’s face didn’t ease her worry. Looking up she met his eyes, looking for some solace.
He smiled, but couldn’t hide his own worry that he had pushed things too far. He could have ignored Logan’s reaction to getting spanked or pretended it never happened. Instead he pushed, enamored by Logan’s reaction until his own desire clouded his judgment; possibly destroying any relationship he may have had a chance at, one that hadn’t even formed. Worse, maybe fucking up Max and Logan’s relationship - again.
He could and would never forget he had been the one to help Manticore deliver the damn virus. Because of his actions Max and Logan had never been together since then. It didn’t matter that he didn’t really know Max or that he was just following orders - she was an X5, and he knew in his heart she was never the real threat - Manticore was.
He was a trained soldier, albeit one with a weakness; he had a conscience. One Alec tried to hide from Manticore and he had worked hard to keep it that way. The consequences whenever he slipped and didn’t follow orders were always harsh. A prime example was when he tried to warn Rachel; the end result was he thought he had killed Rachel and had been removed to psy-ops for re-indoctrination.
His weakness was something Renfro had reminded him of and threatened him for before she assigned him to be Max’s breeding partner.
From the moment he met Max, he liked her. She had seen past his designation to the person he was. Max had even given him his name. She was trying to be sarcastic although it didn’t matter, he liked the name and liked her even more because of it. Despite his inner conflicts Alec had carried out his mission. He could have said something, could have warned her, but in the end he didn’t.
Because of his inactions, she and Logan had to endure being physically apart for the last couple of years. He felt bad especially after he got to know them. Saw firsthand how much they loved each other and he was the one that put a wedge between them. His guilt only increased when Max saved his life after White had injected him with that damn chip.
Regardless of his actions under Manticore’s orders, both of them had taken Alec into their circle and had forgiven him. Treated him as a friend - someone they could trust to stand at their side and have their six. Not that he ever told them, but their friendship was more important to him than he had ever expected. He counted on them being there, they were his unit.
Taking in their silence, Alec worried he was about to lose everything he hadn’t known he wanted. Assessing the situation he quickly decided to do whatever he could to fix things between them then he’d step aside. Do what he did best, tease and flirt but never let it be anything more than that. He’d be exactly what they both already knew, ‘Mr. I’m all-right’.
Internally Alec gathered the painful emotions and started erecting a wall creating a distance between them. He’d do everything he could to bring them back together then he’d leave and be how he was before, ‘unit-less’ and closer to the solitary soldier Manticore created.
What he needed to do was divert their attention so that they’d both forget Max’s suggestion that she had any interest in him. Alec could already see Logan wanted to forget their kiss and everything else. The quickest way to derail Logan’s thoughts was to address the elephant in the room - Max’s secret.
“So, Max, maybe you should start?”
Both Max and Logan looked at him, clearly not following his train of thought.
Alec ignored their confused looks and quickly plunged ahead before he lost his nerve. “It’s time to lay things out, right? Maybe you should let Logan in on the truth that the virus is no longer a deterrent between you.”
Max’s mouth gaped open, but it was Logan’s gasp of shock he heard. Max only stared at him, hurt that he would break her confidence before she turned her eyes back to Logan.
It pained Alec to see her so hurt knowing he was the one causing it, but it was only the beginning, as Logan stared at her his hurt and confusion clearly evident.
He watched as Max and Logan locked eyes, the silence building, tears trailing down Max’s cheek as she trembled under Logan’s gaze. The intensity was deafening, giving away how he had miscalculated. Instead of bringing them closer he could see the distance between them increasing.
Ignoring the dense silence, Alec tried to explain. “She touched you by accident. When you didn’t react she went to Carr to run some tests. She found out Carr’s results just before Joshua called.” Max looked at him wondering how he knew when she found out. Alec replied answering her silent question. “I put two and two together, but it was the look on your face, shock turned to shear bliss. Though like you, I forgot all about it when Joshua called.”
Alec pointedly looked at Logan. “That’s when we found out you were shot. I didn’t figure it out about the call and find out about the virus until Max lost it while we were waiting during your second surgery. She never said anything because she’s punishing herself - thinks it was her fault. She still harbors guilt from the first time, now it’s only multiplied by a hundred.”
Logan rolled closer, his eyes never left Max’s as he spoke directly to her. “Max it was never your fault.”
“You and I know that, but Max needs reminders.”
Logan nodded. “I can do that; remind you daily.”
Abruptly the vibe in the room shifted and Alec took notice feeling the difference, it was working. “Even when she hovers and gets overprotective?”
There was no denying the conviction in Logan’s voice, it was like a vow: “Every day, no matter what. I lost you once when you died in my arms - I can’t go through that again. I don’t care what happens as long as you’re at my side.”
Max didn’t say anything; neither of them did as they stared longingly at each other, having a rather long-drawn out ‘silent’ conversation.
The corners of Max’s mouth slid into a smile when Logan asked, “So no virus?”
Cheerfully Alec responded. “Not any more. You’re the reason why she took all of Bling’s orders so seriously. She’s determined to do whatever she can to help you walk again.”
At that Logan turned to Alec, “Wait a minute, are you telling me Bling actually ordered Max to spank me?”
Alec shrugged, “Yeah. Alright, he didn’t specifically state for it to be part of your daily regimen, but it was highly implied and I quote, ‘While I’m gone do whatever you can to keep him on schedule and boost his morale. Even if that means pulling out any tricks you have including spanking his royal ass.’” Alec shrugged, “that and we could hear you; he said he just finished a rough session with you, and was rubbing his hands as if he had just finished…”
Flushed Logan’s mouth dropped, dumbfounded he stated. “A massage. He gave me a massage, worked out several knots that were aching.”
Speechless, Alec didn’t have to look to know Max was just as taken aback as he was. Thinking back to everything they did, what he did, Alec could only utter a pathetic “huh, didn’t think of that.”
Logan captured Alec’s gaze and demanded, “And the other?”
Embarrassed, Alec rubbed his neck and looked away trying to think of a plausible answer.
Max supplied the answer for him. “He wanted to.”
“Max, about that…”
“Don’t, it’s okay, really. I had an idea of where this were heading. Earlier when I was in the kitchen I could smell and hear what was going on. And Logan that was all Alec, no one prompted him to do that. It’s simple really. He likes you - a lot.”
Without missing a beat Logan added, “And you, apparently.”
Alec looked up when he realized there was no hint of animosity in their voices from either of them; surprised Alec glanced between them only to see he was suddenly their focus.
“Apparently,” Max smirked and crossed her arms triumphantly as she looked him up and down.
“You know he asked me. It was a bit redundant at the time since I was physically responding, but I never did answer.”
“Who asked you what?” Max inquired.
“Alec. He asked me if I liked being spanked.”
Logan turned to Max and reached out for her hand. Wide-eyed Max followed his movement until Logan’s fingers touched hers. Slowly she uncrossed her arms and let Logan entwine their fingers. “He was right. I wasn’t thrilled with the discipline, but the spanking itself, he was right. I liked it.”
Alec held his breath waiting for Max’s reaction. Finally, Alec exhaled in relief when he saw the faintest movements coming from Max as she responded to Logan’s touch. Though initially hesitant with each breath, Max flexed her fingers to fully envelop Logan’s hand within her own. His relief was tangible, pleased that Max and Logan were going to be okay - he just needed to get out of there and let them work the rest out.
“It’s been a long time - not since Valerie…”
’Valerie?’ Alec had no idea who Valerie was, but Max quickly supplied the answer before he could ask. “Your ex-wife?”
Logan nodded as his thumb leisurely brushed back and forth across the back of Max’s palm. “We,” Logan licked his lips as he stared into Max’s face. “Even before we got married we were involved in some light playing. One of my favorites was when she’d…” the word caught in his throat as a pink hue crept up Logan’s neck.
Max finished it for him, but it was more of a question. “She’d spank you?”
Logan bobbed his head in answer.
Leave it to Max to repeat the same question Logan already answered. “And you liked it?”
This time Logan didn’t nod but only continued to stare into Max’s eyes. Though whatever Max saw in Logan’s eyes appeared to be enough as she started to smile then voiced Logan’s answer more as a statement rather than a question. “A lot!”
Logan responded with a wider grin, their eyes dancing in merriment.
That was his cue, without waiting for any good-byes Alec stealthily made his way toward the door.
He was halfway there when Logan barked out an order. “Stop!”
Max quickly stated, “Alec, you said it yourself we need to talk this out, tonight.”
With his guard up and firmly in place, Alec forcibly relaxed his shoulders; his lips slid into an easy smile as he turned around and raised an eyebrow in query as he confronted them; ignoring the fact that they were still holding hands as a couple. “Thought we just did? I think you should be able to handle things from here…” then he let his voice drop, his smile widened into an un-bashful challenge, “Unless you’ve forgotten how and need some pointers to get things started?” He wanted to kick himself as quickly as it left his mouth, hearing and registering the lecherous insinuation within his voice.
Somber, Logan asked, “Manticore teach you guys that?
“What, overeager horny tom catting? If there were any classes they had them after I left.”
Logan snorted, “No, to cut and run?”
“Oh that, yeah, self-preservation.”
“Do you want him to go?”
Max shook her head no, then verbally said it out loud as Logan refused to take his eyes off of him.
A second later Logan replied, “Good.” Then his eyes softened as he addressed Alec. “Alec, we’re not going to force you to stay, but I don’t want you to leave either.”
Internally he panicked and could feel his façade cracking, but it didn’t stop him from demanding, “What the hell do you want from me?”
Logan simply answered, “For you to stick around.”
Genuinely confused Alec looked between Max and Logan before he blurted out, “Why?”
Logan nodded, the corners of his mouth lifting into a small smile, “Fair question.” Taking a deep breath, Logan plunged ahead. “It’s not a secret that I love Max. Not to her or to you. I have for a long time. By the time you came into the picture - after almost killing me; I won’t lie or sugarcoat it for you Alec, back then I was angry, really mad and most of it was directed at you. Initially, it was because of the virus, but I got over that part. I understood you were under Manticore’s orders. However for the most part I was still stuck in this damn chair and what made it worse was I couldn’t touch Max, but you could. I won’t deny it, I was jealous. You looked too good next to Max, it was like you fit. It took me awhile; all right a long time to see things differently. To see you and look past that mask you’re always hiding behind, but I did.”
Alec snorted, even as emotions pushed through the crack. “I think you need new glasses. Did you forget already, it wasn’t even an hour ago you accused me of offering you a pity fuck?” Alec heard the pained accusation, swallowed to collect himself and purposely changed his pitch. “So is that what this is about? You changed your mind?”
“Alec, what I want is for you to stay.”
“What, to watch you two?”
“Yes, but no, for the three of us…” Logan trailed off as if he was suddenly unsure of what to say. Max stood at Logan’s side, Alec watched vividly as their hands flexed and realized they were silently communicating.
Max took up where Logan trailed off. “It’s pretty simple Alec; the three of us together in everything. We’re already an ‘us’, a unit. We have been for a long time.”
Alec bristled against Max’s suggestion; it was too close to what he wanted. “That’s bullshit. You two are in love, you’re a couple. Haven’t you heard three’s a crowd? Trust me; I wouldn’t fit, we don’t lo…. I’d be that obnoxious third wheel everyone wants to get rid of.”
“That’s not true. We don’t want to get rid of you. Alec what I feel for you… it’s true my emotions may not be on the same level of what I feel for Max or Max for me, but we want you to stay. To give what we do feel for you a chance to grow. This isn’t about how hot you are or what the sex would be like.”
Max whipped out, “Though it’d be hot - really hot!”
Alec’s eyes bugged out at Max as she smirked daring him to contradict her statement - he couldn’t.
After a moment her eyes softened to match her voice. “Alec, earlier I heard you guys in the bathroom. It was Logan that didn’t believe you, that you really wanted him, and you did. It’s the same thing here, only it’s you that’s having a hard time believing that either of us wants you. But look around; we’re not going anywhere, we’re not trying to run away.”
“I don’t get it, you don’t have the virus anymore, shouldn’t you be, you know, getting busy?”
Max and Logan shared a look and smiled, Max answered as she gazed lovingly at Logan. “We will, but like I said no more running. I’m right where I want to be, and we both want you to stay.”
Slowly, as if he was a frightened animal and maybe he was, Max held out her hand in an invitation. “Come on Alec, stay, give us a chance…”
Next~