Fic: The Holiday - Part I
Title: The Holiday
Author: meloenijs
Prompt: The Holiday
Pairings: Jack/Ianto, Gwen/Rhys, (past Gwen/Owen, Ianto/Lisa, side: Rhys/Janet, Owen/Diane)
Rating: PG-13
Spoilers: Only if you've never seen The Holiday. Character backgrounds for Torchwood.
Word Count: 13.850
Disclaimer: None of the characters are mine, I’m merely borrowing them. Torchwood owned by the BBC, The Holiday owned by Columbia Pictures and Universal Pictures.
Beta by:janiemc
A/N: Written for reel_torchwood. Any views expressed about tea are not my own and should not be taken seriously. The mini-prologue is straight from the film. Because I can't write like that.
Summary: Gwen and Jack both have trouble with love. They decide to house-swap. Will it finally lead them to real love?
I have found almost everything ever written about love to be true.
Shakespeare said, "Journeys end in lovers meeting. "
What an extraordinary thought. Personally, I have not experienced anything remotely close to that... but I`m more than willing to believe Shakespeare had.
I suppose I think about love more than anyone really should. I`m constantly amazed by its sheer power to alter and define our lives. It was Shakespeare who also said, "Love is blind." Now, that is something I know to be true.
There are all kinds of love, but I am experiencing the cruellest kind. The one that almost kills its victims. It’s called unrequited love. For over a year now, I have been in love with Owen Harper. The absolute worst year of my life, because I have been in love with a man who does not and will not love me back. Just the sight of him at the moment, standing in his casual suit, talking to our editor. My heart starts pounding, my throat thickening, and I can’t swallow. The usual symptoms.
“Don’t tell me you still love him?” Kathy Swanson, writer of the crime column and my confidante. I’ve told her about the - very short - time we were together, and how we stopped after I found out he was shagging Diane Holmes, the drip from Maintenance.
“No! You know we broke up after Diane,” I replied. Of course it’s over. Completely.
“It’s just, I always see you two together. He cheated and you stayed friends? It’s not healthy, you know.”
“I was head over heels. He came swanning into the office, all self-assured and I was completely lost. Everybody knew. Oh god, does it look like I’m crying right now?” Of course I wasn’t upset at the thought of what I’d so briefly had and lost so quickly. It was just some dust in my eye.
“No, no, it just looks like you’re blinking a lot. Gwen, did he ever actually tell you he loved you back?”
Sure he had, at least twice. Sort of. You know how it’s like, they just say back ‘You too.’, but that counts, right?
“Yeah, he has. A couple of times actually.” I briefly glanced over to where Owen stood, drinking and being charming and lovely and… Oh bugger.
“Look, Gwen. When your guy cheats on you, you’re not supposed to stay friends with him. Call him names, throw things at him, shout all you like, but don't do his bloody laundry.”
I glared at her. “I don’t do his laundry. Did someone tell you that? No, all we do is e-mail. And sometimes we phone. When she’s not there. Every so often we talk for hours, he’s a great talker.” I’m so pathetic. I know.
“Gwen, did you file your story yet?” Our editor, the slave driver. Best get back to work. During a party.
I threw Kathy an apologetic look. “Sorry. Better go and finish it.”
Weddings. Why did I choose to report weddings again? This will just make me bitter eventually. ‘groom`s best friend spoke for many guests when he said, ``Hilary will open Edward’s eyes…’
“What’s it like to be so committed to work, while the rest of us are slumming?” Owen was leaning in my doorway, in a definitely very flirty pose.
“You mean, what is it like to be the only one left to finish their story? Hold on, let me finish this.”
“I’ve got you something for Christmas.”
“Oh, I’ve got you something too.” I opened the drawer to take his gift, a limited edition of Vesalius’ ‘De humani corporis fabrica’. Owen writes the medical column and likes to think he is an important doctor.
“Ah yes, I haven’t actually got your gift here. I must have misplaced it somewhere, maybe in the car. But you’ll look hot in it.” He smiled that smile, like I was the most important person in his life. He knew how to push my buttons, so I quickly handed him my gift to save myself further embarrassment.
“It’s not exactly something hot, but happy Christmas.” I smiled weakly at him while he unwrapped the paper.
“A limited edition. Where’d you get this?” His brown eyes were aimed at me.
“That little place in the Royal Arcade we found.”
“Attention everyone. Could everyone gather round here? Just a couple of minutes.” The shouts of our boss interrupted. I hate that man and his timing.
“Well, first of all, a very happy Christmas to every one of you. Now, we`re not officially closed, as you very well know. But we are going to try and get by this week with a smaller-than-normal staff. Now, before some of you rush off on holiday I do have one rather important announcement. This affects Gwen. Where are you, Gwen Cooper?”
What have I done now? “Here, sir.”
“A wedding was privately announced earlier today, which I want Gwen to report about, between our very own Owen Harper and Diane Holmes! Congratulations.”
Oh. I felt my heart breaking all over again, the pieces shattering, never to be found again. The bastard was chatting me up earlier and forgot to mention he was getting married. It was all I could do not to burst into tears.
Keep breathing, Gwen. In and out. In and out.
I was still struggling to get my emotions under control when Owen looked my way. I couldn’t read anything in his eyes, so I just smiled. I’m sure it must’ve looked very convincing.
As soon as possible without looking impolite, I rushed home. I didn’t feel like walking the whole end through a snowy Cardiff, so I took the last train to Cathays.
Ten minutes later I was home and let myself go. I held the biggest cry-party ever.
-----
“Jack!” John threw the door to their bedroom open, only to immediately dodge a trainer aimed at him. “Look Jack, I did not sleep with her!”
“Right, because your receptionist needs to work ‘till three in the morning,” Jack said, waving his arms around dramatically.
“She just wanted to hang out, a bunch of us were working late,” John sighed.
“Ok. Fine. Swear on my life you didn’t sleep with her. Tell me you didn’t cheat on me.”
John sighed again, “I love you, Jack. I really do.”
Jack glared at him in response. “Your receptionist? Really John? This is why I never wanted a civil union. This is why I told you not to get rid of your house. You won’t change, John. I knew you’d just go and cheat on me.”
He walked around the room, picking up some of John’s stuff.
“Can you calm down a moment? I know we’ve had problems for over a year, and I know you don’t want to deal with it, but we have to.”
“Oh I’m aware of the problems we’ve had. I should’ve listened, everyone told me you wouldn’t settle down for just one guy, but I thought if I could do it for you, you would too. For me.” He looked at John’s eyes, pleading silently to tell him the truth.
“You’ve been so busy lately, Jack. Your Blackberry is sleeping more with you than I am! You’ve even installed a video room in the house. And don’t get me started on our sex-life, because I can’t even remember the last time.” John slowly inched closer, all the while staring in Jack’s eyes.
“So you’ve definitely slept with her,” Jack said, throwing John’s stuff in his arms, “Get out please.” He ran out of the bedroom, down the stairs. “You know, John, I don’t think you ever really loved me. Sure, the sex was great when we had it, but you loved the idea of you and me more than you love me. So you could go around and say you tamed Jack Harkness.” He opened the front door and pointed John out.
“I did my best. If that isn’t enough for you, I don’t know what is, Jack. You know you’ve screwed up every relation you’ve ever had. It’s what you do.” John said, stepping outside.
Jack’s response was throwing the door in his face.
“You know how I feel about you, Jack. There’s nobody like you, you just don’t want to be what I need. You know what I mean. And look, we just broke up, and you’re not reacting! You have commitment problems and you won’t admit it.”
Jack appeared on the terrace above John’s head. “Because I don’t. Look, it’s over John. We might as well be honest. Did you sleep with your receptionist or not? Just put me out of my misery.”
John sighed again, looking everywhere but at Jack. “Yes I did, okay? I slept with her. She’s young, she’s available. I’m not proud of it. You should know that.”
Jack disappeared back into the house, opening the front door again to throw some clothes at John.
“I’ll send you your things later. Now get out.”
Jack found himself alone in front of his computer, ready to google locations for a holiday. It would be right what he needed, he thought, some rest and quiet. Alone. At Christmas. He clicked a site that promised the best vacation a man could wish. Maybe not. The next site sounded better, vacation-rentals. It could be exactly what he needed, disappear and hole up in a house somewhere.
Where do you want to go?
“Where do they speak English? Hmm… Let’s try Wales.” Pick a city or region.
“How should I know? Right, Cardiff it is.”
Barn converted to modern house. “Yeah, more like replaced by a ruin,” Jack scoffed.
Old Victorian house with front garden, complete with fireplace to snuggle up on cold winter nights. Located just ten minutes away from the centre of Cardiff.
“Perfect.”
-----
Tea. Tea would help, it always does. I moved around the kitchen carefully, so I wouldn’t start crying again. I spotted Myfanwy’s empty bowl and quickly gave her some leftovers. No more warm water left for tea, which led to me fiddling with matches while trying to get the stove going. Why should I even try? It’s not like it’ll get Owen to love me. I glanced down, where the gas was pouring out. Slowly, I leaned down, inhaling the gas. Ding. My laptop brought me to my senses, what was I doing? I threw open a window, deeply breathing in the fresh air. I stood there, leaning in the window, heaving badly. I was in a low point. Ding. I turned around to my laptop, finding a chat conversation open.
Jack: I’m interested in renting your house. Would it be available this Christmas? You could be a real lifesaver.
Gwen: The cottage is only available for home exchange, we switch houses, cars, everything. Where do you live?
Jack: Los Angeles. Sounds wonderful, by the way.
Gwen: I’ve never been there! Always wanted to go.
Jack: Great, you’ll love it. My place is a little bigger than yours.
Gwen: Not hard to be.
Jack: Just tell me one thing. Are there any men in your village?
Gwen: Zero.
Jack: When can we switch?
Gwen: Tomorrow too early?
Jack: Tomorrow’s perfect!
Today was the tomorrow of yesterday, and I was sat on a plane. When a cute guy put his stuff next to me, I thought it would be a great trip. Until his wife came and told him they had the seats behind me. Bugger. Of course I was sat in the middle of two old ladies, one of which stepped on my foot - hard. Imagine me actually having some luck with this.
My phone beeped. Owen. I took a deep breath to steel myself against what he had to say. Heard you left for a holiday. How do I reach you? Owen.
Don’t give in now, Gwen.
We both know I need to get over you. It’s better if you don’t contact me. Gwen.
There. I’d done it. I sniffed back a few tears.
L.A.! I made it there in one piece, despite a bruised foot. Sun, palm trees, sand, sea… This would be perfect. I took a cab to Sunset Boulevard, full of amazing houses. The house I would be living in for the next two weeks could easily contain mine four times.
I danced through the rooms, enthusiastically screaming like a child. There was a magnificent home cinema, a fitness room, he even had his own pool. And the bed. A big, soft, fluffy bed, just waiting to be jumped into.
-----
“Sir? Sir!”
Jack started. “Yes?”
“We’re here.” Jack looked around, a quiet street covered in snow. “It’s through there, but the ice is too slippery there for a car. Think you can make it?”
Jack frowned at the taxi driver. “No.”
Loaded with two heavy suitcases, Jack started to make his way over to the house. He found out there was indeed a very slippery ice patch on this part of the road. “Sure, just leave me to slip and break my neck,” he muttered. Inch by inch, he made his way to the entrance.
“Here we are,” he said, grinning up at the house.
Jack explored the rooms cautiously, touching nothing lest something fall over. Everything looked so old. He started unpacking in the bedroom, cramming all his clothes in the tiny closet.
He pushed his empty suitcases under the bed, noticing that the bed was rather small.
“Right,” he glanced around the room. “Now what?” His eyes fell on the keys he’d thrown on the nightstand. “Bingo,” he grinned.
“Watch where you’re riding,” Jack shouted at a cyclist who dare ride on the left side of the road. “God, I need a drink.”
The local grocer had everything he needed; beer, sweets, biscuits, more beer.
“Someone’s having a party tonight,” the cashier smiled at him.
Jack chuckled in response. “Yeah…”
Wrapped in a duvet and wearing two sweaters, Jack lay in bed watching telly, sipping his beer. “I’m never gonna be warm again,” he moaned. Rolling off the bed, he went downstairs to try and light the fireplace. Logs, check. Matches, check. Create fire and light logs, check. Waiting for the fire to start giving some heat, he ran through Gwen’s book collection. Boring, read that, boring, boring, boring, ooh looks interesting, boring.
He slammed down the book with a sigh. Boring. In the seat opposite, the dog was staring at him. He stared back and growled. He stuck out his tongue, pulling up his nose and clapping his hands. “You blinked! I win.” He grinned a dazzling smile at Myfanwy.
-----
As soon as I found my swimming suit, I went for a quick swim. The water was heated, lovely.
I could get used to this. Afterwards, I took a look at Jack’s DVD collection, which was massive. A whole wall was dedicated to housing them all, in the middle of which was waiting one very big telly. I picked a DVD out, but watching a film was easier said than done. There were at least six different machines, none of which had a handy little note that said: ‘I play DVD’s’. I was contemplating which one to try first when the phone went. Front gate, it said.
“Hello?” I was frantically flipping through the manual, trying to figure out how to operate the gates. “Can you hear me?”
“Yes, Jack? It’s Rhys.”
“Sorry, Jack’s not here, I’m trying to figure out how to work the gate. Oh bollo-.” Beep.
“If you heard that, I’m sorry.”
I ran to the front door, running outside and seeing a sleek silver convertible pulling up on the driveway.
“I’m so sorry, I’m pretty new to the gate thing.” I’d probably unlocked a few other doors too, I would have to check that later.
“It’s okay, it was pretty funny,” a sturdy built man with brown hair chuckled as he stepped out of the car. He looked good, and he actually sounded Welsh.
“I’m Rhys, I work with John.”
“John?” Should I know that guy? Probably not, but I was still running through everyone I know.
“Jack’s ex.” He said it like I should’ve known. Darn.
“Right.” I nodded at him like I knew all along.
“Do you know when he returns? I came to pick up a few things.”
“Jack’s in Wales, actually, on a holiday. I’m staying here while he’s away.”
Right then, the wind decided to blow something very painful in my eye. I rubbed my eye, trying to get it out - without success.
“Are you all right?” Rhys sounded worried. Worried! About someone he’d only just met. Okay, basic politeness, but a girl can dream. It’s not like Owen would suddenly come to his senses, blow off his wedding and come back to me.
“Yeah, something just blew into my eye.” With every passing second it was starting to feel more like I had a bloody tree branch poking into my eye.
“Oh I hate that. Here, let me.” Rhys brought his hands up and pushed my eye open.
“Yep, you have something under your eyelid. You want me to get it?”
“Err… okay.” It’s not like I would ever be able to use my eye again, so it didn't matter if he screwed up.
“Santa Anas. The wind here is what make it so warm. Legend has it, when the Santa Anas blow, anything can happen.” Rhys managed to distract me while poking in my eye, clearing it of the dust. So maybe I had been exaggerating slightly, but it still wasn’t pleasant.
“There, that’s it. You okay, love?” He pulled back slightly, which only made me realise how close we’d been standing.
“Better. Thank you.” I stared at him while he stepped back, offering him a smile.
“So umm… you came here…” I trailed off, having completely forgotten what he was here for. “I came to pick up John’s laptop, for his work.” He smiled at me.
“Oh right. Would you mind coming back tomorrow? I just want to check this with Jack’s assistant.” Wouldn’t do good to just give away laptops to random strangers, no matter how good-looking they are.
“Sure, no problem.” Only then did I notice the girl who had been waiting in the car all along, now coming over to us. With a slightly wavering smile, I introduced myself to Rhys.
“I’m Gwen, by the way. Nice to meet you.”
“Rhys,” he gave another smile, “ and this is my Janet,” he said, putting his arm around her waist. There went my hope.
I smiled politely at her. “Hello.”
“See you tomorrow then, Gwen. Don’t blow away.” They made their way back to the car, Rhys offering me a small smile before driving off.
I noticed an old lady with a walking rack and an assistant passing the gate, while I was definitely not tearing up. I gave a little wave. She seemed nice enough.
Five o’clock. Add eight hours… one a.m. in London. Time to work off some jetlag. I plunged into the bed. I felt a childish glee about having all these pillows and duvet all for myself.
I closed my eyes, trying to get to sleep. The sun started shining even brighter through the large windows. Sighing, I sat back up. Oh, buttons on the nightstand. I pressed the bottom one, hoping it wouldn’t blow up something valuable.
Gotcha. Blinds came down all the windows, effectively darkening the room.
-----
Jack lay awake in the bed, trying to get some sleep when someone started knocking on the door. Mywanwy was barking frantically at the outsider. Jack quickly pulled on a t-shirt and some track pants and stumbled down the stairs.
“Who is it?” Jack asked.
“It’s me. Hurry up, it’s freezing.” The voice outside was slurring slightly but Jack could still distinguish those beautiful Welsh vowels he’d come to love in the day he’d been here.
“Gwen, open the door, or I swear I’m gonna take a leak all over your-“
Jack rushed forwards, opening the door. The man on the doorstep turned around, looking at Jack in surprise. Jack stared back, looking at the gorgeous man in front of him. The man was about as tall as he was, with startling blue eyes above a cute button nose.
“You’re not Gwen. Or I’m even drunker than I thought I was. I’m sorry for what I said, I wasn’t expecting you,” the man finished with a small smile.
“I wasn’t expecting you either,” Jack replied.
“Nevertheless, can I come in? I really have to…”
“Yeah, of course. Sure. You had to use the bathroom.” Jack stepped aside to let the man in, eyes roaming over his backside when he walked past. Jack’s eyes were lingering on the man’s tight trousers when his mystery guest suddenly turned around to introduce himself.
“I’m Ianto, by the way, Gwen’s brother.”
“Oh, her brother,” Jack’s mind spontaneously made a few cartwheels at that, “I’m Jack Harkness, I’m staying here while Gwen’s away.”
As he saw Ianto disappear in the small bathroom across the hall, Jack contemplated his chances. Ianto was cute, sure, but he didn’t come across as gay. Still, you never know until you try, and Jack was determined to try the best he could. Maybe a bit of innocent flirting would cheer him up. He looked in the mirror on his right, smoothing down his hair and pulling his t-shirt out of his trousers.
“So, Gwen, where is she?” Ianto emerged from the bathroom with a relieved look on his face, stumbling into a table and nearly dropping the lamp on the floor.
“She didn’t tell you?”
“She could have done… but I might not have heard it. As you noticed, I was a bit… ” Ianto waved a hand to the door, thinking this made everything clear.
Jack chuckled at the intoxicated Welshman. “She’s in Los Angeles.”
Ianto raised his eyebrow, “Gwen? She never goes anywhere.”
“Well, she listed this house on a home-exchange website and I found it. We switched house for two weeks. For the holidays. She’s in L.A. at my house, and I’m here,” Jack finished with a dazzling grin.
Ianto leaned against the wall, unsure if it was because of the alcohol or the grin he’d just received. He lifted his head and looked at Jack curiously.
“People actually do that? Amazing.”
“Apparently, yeah. Here I am.”
“She did ring me last night,” Ianto leaned closer to Jack, as if sharing something private, “I didn’t get a chance to get back to her. You know how it goes.” He let his head hang and stood straight. “I feel awful now.” Ianto seemed to consider this for a moment, then leaned into Jack once more. “Would you mind if I sat? I feel like I might bump into you.”
Jack shook his head, amused by the Welshman’s behaviour. “Sure, take a seat.”
Ianto walked past him, unwinding a brightly coloured scarf and taking off his coat. He hung them up neatly and staggered into the living room and threw himself in the couch. He looked up at Jack, who still stood where he’d left him.
“Are you going to stay in the hallway?”
Jack shook his head to clear it, overwhelmed by how at ease he felt with the Welshman. He walked into the living room, taking place in a seat across Ianto.
“Are you feeling okay?” he asked. Ianto was swaying a bit, leaning into the couch, then sitting back up straight when he heard Jack’s voice.
“I’m fine,” Ianto replied. “Look, I’m sorry about the intrusion. Normally when I frequent the local bar and get inordinately pissed, my big sister puts me up so I don’t get behind the wheel. Unfortunately it’s become a bit of a routine,” Ianto sighed, a flash of sadness appearing briefly on his face. “So how’s it going? I mean, up until I showed up and ruined your night.”
Jack pulled a face. “Not so great actually, I’m leaving tomorrow on a noon plane.”
“Oh,” Ianto sounded vaguely disappointed. “When did you get here?”
“Err… about six hours ago.” Jack at least had the decency to look ashamed.
“Well, we’ve sure made a great impression on you, haven’t we?” Ianto smiled at him.
“It’s not that, I’m just not quite myself. I came here on a stupid whim. Honestly, I’ve never thought about anything less. It’s very unlike me,” Jack realised he was rambling and suddenly changed tactic, “Would you like something to drink?” He sent another megawatt smile to follow.
Ianto leaned over the couch and pointed towards the cupboard. “I think there’s a bottle of brandy. Fancy a glass?”
Jack considered it a moment before nodding. “Sure.”
He took the bottle and started searching glasses in the unfamiliar kitchen.
“So, I’ve totally blanked and forgotten your name. Sorry.”
Jack looked over his shoulder at the Welshman. “Captain Jack Harkness, at your service.”
“So, Jack,” Ianto hesitated slightly. ”Got a girlfriend? Married?”
Triumphantly Jack emerged with two acceptable glasses.
“Why? Do I look married?” Jack teased him.
“Err… I don’t know. I was just wondering if you were…” Ianto trailed off with a blush on his cheeks.
“No, I’m not married. Not at all,” Jack frowned. “I don’t know what that means.” He offered one of the glasses to Ianto.
“Cheers.”
“Cheers. And I’m not married either. If you want to know, that is,” Ianto said, still blushing.
They both took a gulp of brandy, staring awkwardly at each other. Ianto scraped his throat.
“So, is it horrible if I stay? I’ll be gone before you wake up. I promise you will never have to lay eyes on me again.” Ianto aimed a puppy-eyed look at Jack.
“That would be a shame,” Jack muttered. “It’s fine, just let me get you a blanket.”
“Thank you. It’s in the cupboard, on top of the Scrabble,” Ianto pointed out. After a slight pause he asked, “How is it you’re not quite yourself?”
Jack pulled a thick blanket out of the cupboard and turned to face Ianto.
“Well, I just broke up with someone. Yesterday. And I guess that I thought if I was somewhere else, I wouldn’t feel so alone over the holidays. But then I got here, and I’ve never felt more alone in my life. Big surprise,” Jack finished with a wry smile. “Bet you’re glad you knocked here.”
Ianto stood up to look Jack in the eyes and responded softly, “I am, actually.” He leaned forwards so his face was just inches away from Jack’s. “Goodnight.”
Before he had the chance to change his mind, he closed the space left between them and pressed a light kiss on Jack’s lips. He pulled back slightly and blushed, looking away.
Jack was gobsmacked. The Welshman looked up into his eyes, sensing his confusion.
“Would you mind… err I mean, would you try that again? Maybe?” Jack asked hesitantly. He hadn’t meant for this to go so far, but it felt nice. He banished all thoughts of John out of his mind. Ianto leaned in to plant another kiss on his mouth, running his tongue over Jack’s bottom lip when he pulled away. Jack looked at Ianto, taking in the faint blush across his cheekbones. Ianto mistook his gaze and asked, “Bad?”
Jack chuckled and shook his head. “Just… different. It’s been a while since I’ve been kissed like that. My partner wasn’t exactly the most tender lover.”
Ianto’s eyes were transfixed on his. “Really? It’s how I’ve always kissed.”
Jack’s eyes dropped down to Ianto’s red lips, begging to be kissed. Jack took the initiative this time, kissing Ianto lightly. He pulled back again, licking his lip to taste Ianto’s unique flavour on them.
“Maybe if I close my eyes.” Jack closed his eyes, hoping Ianto understood the hint. Ianto brought up his hands and tangled them into Jack’s hair, sweeping through the soft strands. He placed a soft kiss on Jack’s forehead, trailing down his cheek with butterfly kisses and ended nuzzling Jack’s neck. He took a deep breath, taking in Jack’s smell.
“You smell nice. I like your aftershave.”
“I don’t use any,” Jack opened his eyes slightly.
“You smell like that naturally?” Ianto lifted his head from the crook of Jack’s neck, and stared disbelievingly. Jack merely chuckled and nodded, “Apparently. You know,” Jack hesitated, “considering I’m in a stranger’s house and you turned up, completely drunk and unbelievably attractive, and you probably won’t remember me anyway, I think we should have sex. If you want.”
Ianto raised his eyebrow and asked, “Is that a trick question?”
“I’m serious. Because this is what vacation is about, doing unexpected things, and you’re definitely unexpected. And you’re funny, always a bonus.” Jack smirked.
“Never meet me when I’m sober,” Ianto answered with an eye-roll.
“Deal.” With that, Jack threw himself at the Welshman, ravishing his mouth and stroking through the short dark hair. When the need for air became too much to ignore, they pulled away, panting slightly. “Oh, and I should warn you,” Jack said, “I’ve been told my technique is mind-blowing.”
Ianto’s eyes darkened with lust. “I’ll let you know if you have room for improvement.”
Jack grinned at that and stood up, pulling the younger man to his feet. “How do you feel about foreplay?” He fiddled with Ianto’s tie.
Ianto brought his hand to Jack’s crotch, rubbing through the fabric. “I think it’s overrated.” He turned them round, and started to walk to the stairs, throwing an innocent look over his shoulder. “Coming?”
“Oh, I’ll be coming all right,” Jack bounded after him and threw his arms around the Welshman, stopping him in front of the stairs. “I think I know a better purpose for that tie.”
They made their way to the bedroom, leaving behind a trail of clothes.
Jack woke in an unfamiliar bed, snuggling an unfamiliar body. Although, after last night’s memories came back to him, not so unfamiliar. Carefully he tried to disentangle his arms from around the sleeping young man. He padded barefoot over to the bathroom, splashing cold water in his face to wake him up. Gasping at the unpleasant sensation, he looked around to search his track pants. Unable to find them anywhere in the room, he gave up and just pulled on a pair of boxers and an old t-shirt.
He made his way down to the kitchen, pleasantly surprised when he found the track pants thrown over the railing of the stairs. He pulled them on quickly, making his way over to the coffee machine.
He’d tried all the controls, fiddling with them without any success, when he heard laughing behind him. Jack turned around to see Ianto fully dressed, smirking at him.
“Good morning.”
“Morning. You wouldn’t happen to know how this thing works?” Jack was getting desperate for his caffeine fix.
“As a matter of fact, I do. I brought it over here to try and teach Gwen how to make a decent cup of coffee - without success.” Ianto walked over and looked the machine over. He frowned at Jack, “You’ve messed with the settings.” Sighing, he set to work.
Jack took place at the table, watching the young man work his magic. After a few minutes of studying Ianto’s hands, a cup of coffee was placed in front of him.
“I think you take it black, right?”
Jack nodded, and smelled the odour of his coffee, sighing of contentment. He took a sip, and his eyes widened. “Ianto! This is the best coffee I’ve ever had, and I’ve drunk a lot.”
Ianto smirked again, “I try my best.”
Jack cleared his throat, suddenly unsure how to continue. Now that Ianto was sober, he might realise what he’d done and freak out. Stranger things had happened. “You don’t have to worry about a thing here. We’ll probably never see each other again anyway, but it was great meeting you.”
Ianto nodded in a way that seemed to indicate he was just humouring Jack. “Definitely. And for the record, it was indeed mind-blowing. Despite my drunken fumbling.”
Jack laughed at that, interrupted by a ringing phone on the table. He grabbed it and looked at the caller ID, “Tosh.” He handed the mobile back to Ianto. “Sorry. I didn’t mean to look.” Ianto glanced briefly at the screen, then disconnected the call. “I’ll call back later.”
Jack pulled out the cereals from the cupboard and started searching for bowls. Ianto turned around and took one bowl from the cupboard behind him, handing it to Jack.
“You don’t want some?” Jack asked.
“I should probably be going.”
“Oh yeah, I gotta get going myself in a few minutes. Flight to catch and all,” Jack said trying to act casual.
Ianto went to get his coat and shrugged it on. “So listen, I know you’re leaving and absolutely not interested in getting involved but just so you know, things in my life are a bit complicated and even if you were staying, I can promise you, you wouldn’t - ”
“Look, I’m a mess about this myself, and we hardly know each other.”
“Well, I just wanted to be sure you’re okay, because somehow I find I tend to hurt people simply by being myself.”
“I’m not going to fall in love with you, Ianto, I promise. I’m not sure I even fall in love. Not like other people do.”
“You’re an interesting man, Mr. Harkness. It’s a shame you’re leaving. Well, you probably won’t be hearing from me, because even if you wanted to, and you clearly don’t, I have the classic male problem - I always forget to call back after a date. But since this wasn’t a date I guess I’m off the hook.”
Ianto walked away from where he stood by the door and stopped in front of Jack. “But you know, if your flight’s cancelled, or for some reason you change your mind, I’ll be having dinner in the pub with some friends tonight. If not,” Ianto smiled wryly, “goodbye.”
Jack saw him turn around and leave through the door. He stood there, turning over everything Ianto had said in his mind. The younger man had let him know, in a way, that he wanted to see Jack again despite this being intended as a one-night stand. He quickly ate his breakfast and went upstairs to pack.
Some stranger was currently going through his bags, searching forbidden items. Going through the customs had never been Jack’s favourite part, he just had to stand still, shuffle forwards, offer his passport, stand still, shuffle forwards, wait ‘till boarding. He gazed off in the distance, thinking about a certain Welshman.
“You’re good to go, sir.” The gruff voice cut through his thoughts.
-----
Part 2
Author: meloenijs
Prompt: The Holiday
Pairings: Jack/Ianto, Gwen/Rhys, (past Gwen/Owen, Ianto/Lisa, side: Rhys/Janet, Owen/Diane)
Rating: PG-13
Spoilers: Only if you've never seen The Holiday. Character backgrounds for Torchwood.
Word Count: 13.850
Disclaimer: None of the characters are mine, I’m merely borrowing them. Torchwood owned by the BBC, The Holiday owned by Columbia Pictures and Universal Pictures.
Beta by:janiemc
A/N: Written for reel_torchwood. Any views expressed about tea are not my own and should not be taken seriously. The mini-prologue is straight from the film. Because I can't write like that.
Summary: Gwen and Jack both have trouble with love. They decide to house-swap. Will it finally lead them to real love?
I have found almost everything ever written about love to be true.
Shakespeare said, "Journeys end in lovers meeting. "
What an extraordinary thought. Personally, I have not experienced anything remotely close to that... but I`m more than willing to believe Shakespeare had.
I suppose I think about love more than anyone really should. I`m constantly amazed by its sheer power to alter and define our lives. It was Shakespeare who also said, "Love is blind." Now, that is something I know to be true.
There are all kinds of love, but I am experiencing the cruellest kind. The one that almost kills its victims. It’s called unrequited love. For over a year now, I have been in love with Owen Harper. The absolute worst year of my life, because I have been in love with a man who does not and will not love me back. Just the sight of him at the moment, standing in his casual suit, talking to our editor. My heart starts pounding, my throat thickening, and I can’t swallow. The usual symptoms.
“Don’t tell me you still love him?” Kathy Swanson, writer of the crime column and my confidante. I’ve told her about the - very short - time we were together, and how we stopped after I found out he was shagging Diane Holmes, the drip from Maintenance.
“No! You know we broke up after Diane,” I replied. Of course it’s over. Completely.
“It’s just, I always see you two together. He cheated and you stayed friends? It’s not healthy, you know.”
“I was head over heels. He came swanning into the office, all self-assured and I was completely lost. Everybody knew. Oh god, does it look like I’m crying right now?” Of course I wasn’t upset at the thought of what I’d so briefly had and lost so quickly. It was just some dust in my eye.
“No, no, it just looks like you’re blinking a lot. Gwen, did he ever actually tell you he loved you back?”
Sure he had, at least twice. Sort of. You know how it’s like, they just say back ‘You too.’, but that counts, right?
“Yeah, he has. A couple of times actually.” I briefly glanced over to where Owen stood, drinking and being charming and lovely and… Oh bugger.
“Look, Gwen. When your guy cheats on you, you’re not supposed to stay friends with him. Call him names, throw things at him, shout all you like, but don't do his bloody laundry.”
I glared at her. “I don’t do his laundry. Did someone tell you that? No, all we do is e-mail. And sometimes we phone. When she’s not there. Every so often we talk for hours, he’s a great talker.” I’m so pathetic. I know.
“Gwen, did you file your story yet?” Our editor, the slave driver. Best get back to work. During a party.
I threw Kathy an apologetic look. “Sorry. Better go and finish it.”
Weddings. Why did I choose to report weddings again? This will just make me bitter eventually. ‘groom`s best friend spoke for many guests when he said, ``Hilary will open Edward’s eyes…’
“What’s it like to be so committed to work, while the rest of us are slumming?” Owen was leaning in my doorway, in a definitely very flirty pose.
“You mean, what is it like to be the only one left to finish their story? Hold on, let me finish this.”
“I’ve got you something for Christmas.”
“Oh, I’ve got you something too.” I opened the drawer to take his gift, a limited edition of Vesalius’ ‘De humani corporis fabrica’. Owen writes the medical column and likes to think he is an important doctor.
“Ah yes, I haven’t actually got your gift here. I must have misplaced it somewhere, maybe in the car. But you’ll look hot in it.” He smiled that smile, like I was the most important person in his life. He knew how to push my buttons, so I quickly handed him my gift to save myself further embarrassment.
“It’s not exactly something hot, but happy Christmas.” I smiled weakly at him while he unwrapped the paper.
“A limited edition. Where’d you get this?” His brown eyes were aimed at me.
“That little place in the Royal Arcade we found.”
“Attention everyone. Could everyone gather round here? Just a couple of minutes.” The shouts of our boss interrupted. I hate that man and his timing.
“Well, first of all, a very happy Christmas to every one of you. Now, we`re not officially closed, as you very well know. But we are going to try and get by this week with a smaller-than-normal staff. Now, before some of you rush off on holiday I do have one rather important announcement. This affects Gwen. Where are you, Gwen Cooper?”
What have I done now? “Here, sir.”
“A wedding was privately announced earlier today, which I want Gwen to report about, between our very own Owen Harper and Diane Holmes! Congratulations.”
Oh. I felt my heart breaking all over again, the pieces shattering, never to be found again. The bastard was chatting me up earlier and forgot to mention he was getting married. It was all I could do not to burst into tears.
Keep breathing, Gwen. In and out. In and out.
I was still struggling to get my emotions under control when Owen looked my way. I couldn’t read anything in his eyes, so I just smiled. I’m sure it must’ve looked very convincing.
As soon as possible without looking impolite, I rushed home. I didn’t feel like walking the whole end through a snowy Cardiff, so I took the last train to Cathays.
Ten minutes later I was home and let myself go. I held the biggest cry-party ever.
-----
“Jack!” John threw the door to their bedroom open, only to immediately dodge a trainer aimed at him. “Look Jack, I did not sleep with her!”
“Right, because your receptionist needs to work ‘till three in the morning,” Jack said, waving his arms around dramatically.
“She just wanted to hang out, a bunch of us were working late,” John sighed.
“Ok. Fine. Swear on my life you didn’t sleep with her. Tell me you didn’t cheat on me.”
John sighed again, “I love you, Jack. I really do.”
Jack glared at him in response. “Your receptionist? Really John? This is why I never wanted a civil union. This is why I told you not to get rid of your house. You won’t change, John. I knew you’d just go and cheat on me.”
He walked around the room, picking up some of John’s stuff.
“Can you calm down a moment? I know we’ve had problems for over a year, and I know you don’t want to deal with it, but we have to.”
“Oh I’m aware of the problems we’ve had. I should’ve listened, everyone told me you wouldn’t settle down for just one guy, but I thought if I could do it for you, you would too. For me.” He looked at John’s eyes, pleading silently to tell him the truth.
“You’ve been so busy lately, Jack. Your Blackberry is sleeping more with you than I am! You’ve even installed a video room in the house. And don’t get me started on our sex-life, because I can’t even remember the last time.” John slowly inched closer, all the while staring in Jack’s eyes.
“So you’ve definitely slept with her,” Jack said, throwing John’s stuff in his arms, “Get out please.” He ran out of the bedroom, down the stairs. “You know, John, I don’t think you ever really loved me. Sure, the sex was great when we had it, but you loved the idea of you and me more than you love me. So you could go around and say you tamed Jack Harkness.” He opened the front door and pointed John out.
“I did my best. If that isn’t enough for you, I don’t know what is, Jack. You know you’ve screwed up every relation you’ve ever had. It’s what you do.” John said, stepping outside.
Jack’s response was throwing the door in his face.
“You know how I feel about you, Jack. There’s nobody like you, you just don’t want to be what I need. You know what I mean. And look, we just broke up, and you’re not reacting! You have commitment problems and you won’t admit it.”
Jack appeared on the terrace above John’s head. “Because I don’t. Look, it’s over John. We might as well be honest. Did you sleep with your receptionist or not? Just put me out of my misery.”
John sighed again, looking everywhere but at Jack. “Yes I did, okay? I slept with her. She’s young, she’s available. I’m not proud of it. You should know that.”
Jack disappeared back into the house, opening the front door again to throw some clothes at John.
“I’ll send you your things later. Now get out.”
Jack found himself alone in front of his computer, ready to google locations for a holiday. It would be right what he needed, he thought, some rest and quiet. Alone. At Christmas. He clicked a site that promised the best vacation a man could wish. Maybe not. The next site sounded better, vacation-rentals. It could be exactly what he needed, disappear and hole up in a house somewhere.
Where do you want to go?
“Where do they speak English? Hmm… Let’s try Wales.” Pick a city or region.
“How should I know? Right, Cardiff it is.”
Barn converted to modern house. “Yeah, more like replaced by a ruin,” Jack scoffed.
Old Victorian house with front garden, complete with fireplace to snuggle up on cold winter nights. Located just ten minutes away from the centre of Cardiff.
“Perfect.”
-----
Tea. Tea would help, it always does. I moved around the kitchen carefully, so I wouldn’t start crying again. I spotted Myfanwy’s empty bowl and quickly gave her some leftovers. No more warm water left for tea, which led to me fiddling with matches while trying to get the stove going. Why should I even try? It’s not like it’ll get Owen to love me. I glanced down, where the gas was pouring out. Slowly, I leaned down, inhaling the gas. Ding. My laptop brought me to my senses, what was I doing? I threw open a window, deeply breathing in the fresh air. I stood there, leaning in the window, heaving badly. I was in a low point. Ding. I turned around to my laptop, finding a chat conversation open.
Jack: I’m interested in renting your house. Would it be available this Christmas? You could be a real lifesaver.
Gwen: The cottage is only available for home exchange, we switch houses, cars, everything. Where do you live?
Jack: Los Angeles. Sounds wonderful, by the way.
Gwen: I’ve never been there! Always wanted to go.
Jack: Great, you’ll love it. My place is a little bigger than yours.
Gwen: Not hard to be.
Jack: Just tell me one thing. Are there any men in your village?
Gwen: Zero.
Jack: When can we switch?
Gwen: Tomorrow too early?
Jack: Tomorrow’s perfect!
Today was the tomorrow of yesterday, and I was sat on a plane. When a cute guy put his stuff next to me, I thought it would be a great trip. Until his wife came and told him they had the seats behind me. Bugger. Of course I was sat in the middle of two old ladies, one of which stepped on my foot - hard. Imagine me actually having some luck with this.
My phone beeped. Owen. I took a deep breath to steel myself against what he had to say. Heard you left for a holiday. How do I reach you? Owen.
Don’t give in now, Gwen.
We both know I need to get over you. It’s better if you don’t contact me. Gwen.
There. I’d done it. I sniffed back a few tears.
L.A.! I made it there in one piece, despite a bruised foot. Sun, palm trees, sand, sea… This would be perfect. I took a cab to Sunset Boulevard, full of amazing houses. The house I would be living in for the next two weeks could easily contain mine four times.
I danced through the rooms, enthusiastically screaming like a child. There was a magnificent home cinema, a fitness room, he even had his own pool. And the bed. A big, soft, fluffy bed, just waiting to be jumped into.
-----
“Sir? Sir!”
Jack started. “Yes?”
“We’re here.” Jack looked around, a quiet street covered in snow. “It’s through there, but the ice is too slippery there for a car. Think you can make it?”
Jack frowned at the taxi driver. “No.”
Loaded with two heavy suitcases, Jack started to make his way over to the house. He found out there was indeed a very slippery ice patch on this part of the road. “Sure, just leave me to slip and break my neck,” he muttered. Inch by inch, he made his way to the entrance.
“Here we are,” he said, grinning up at the house.
Jack explored the rooms cautiously, touching nothing lest something fall over. Everything looked so old. He started unpacking in the bedroom, cramming all his clothes in the tiny closet.
He pushed his empty suitcases under the bed, noticing that the bed was rather small.
“Right,” he glanced around the room. “Now what?” His eyes fell on the keys he’d thrown on the nightstand. “Bingo,” he grinned.
“Watch where you’re riding,” Jack shouted at a cyclist who dare ride on the left side of the road. “God, I need a drink.”
The local grocer had everything he needed; beer, sweets, biscuits, more beer.
“Someone’s having a party tonight,” the cashier smiled at him.
Jack chuckled in response. “Yeah…”
Wrapped in a duvet and wearing two sweaters, Jack lay in bed watching telly, sipping his beer. “I’m never gonna be warm again,” he moaned. Rolling off the bed, he went downstairs to try and light the fireplace. Logs, check. Matches, check. Create fire and light logs, check. Waiting for the fire to start giving some heat, he ran through Gwen’s book collection. Boring, read that, boring, boring, boring, ooh looks interesting, boring.
He slammed down the book with a sigh. Boring. In the seat opposite, the dog was staring at him. He stared back and growled. He stuck out his tongue, pulling up his nose and clapping his hands. “You blinked! I win.” He grinned a dazzling smile at Myfanwy.
-----
As soon as I found my swimming suit, I went for a quick swim. The water was heated, lovely.
I could get used to this. Afterwards, I took a look at Jack’s DVD collection, which was massive. A whole wall was dedicated to housing them all, in the middle of which was waiting one very big telly. I picked a DVD out, but watching a film was easier said than done. There were at least six different machines, none of which had a handy little note that said: ‘I play DVD’s’. I was contemplating which one to try first when the phone went. Front gate, it said.
“Hello?” I was frantically flipping through the manual, trying to figure out how to operate the gates. “Can you hear me?”
“Yes, Jack? It’s Rhys.”
“Sorry, Jack’s not here, I’m trying to figure out how to work the gate. Oh bollo-.” Beep.
“If you heard that, I’m sorry.”
I ran to the front door, running outside and seeing a sleek silver convertible pulling up on the driveway.
“I’m so sorry, I’m pretty new to the gate thing.” I’d probably unlocked a few other doors too, I would have to check that later.
“It’s okay, it was pretty funny,” a sturdy built man with brown hair chuckled as he stepped out of the car. He looked good, and he actually sounded Welsh.
“I’m Rhys, I work with John.”
“John?” Should I know that guy? Probably not, but I was still running through everyone I know.
“Jack’s ex.” He said it like I should’ve known. Darn.
“Right.” I nodded at him like I knew all along.
“Do you know when he returns? I came to pick up a few things.”
“Jack’s in Wales, actually, on a holiday. I’m staying here while he’s away.”
Right then, the wind decided to blow something very painful in my eye. I rubbed my eye, trying to get it out - without success.
“Are you all right?” Rhys sounded worried. Worried! About someone he’d only just met. Okay, basic politeness, but a girl can dream. It’s not like Owen would suddenly come to his senses, blow off his wedding and come back to me.
“Yeah, something just blew into my eye.” With every passing second it was starting to feel more like I had a bloody tree branch poking into my eye.
“Oh I hate that. Here, let me.” Rhys brought his hands up and pushed my eye open.
“Yep, you have something under your eyelid. You want me to get it?”
“Err… okay.” It’s not like I would ever be able to use my eye again, so it didn't matter if he screwed up.
“Santa Anas. The wind here is what make it so warm. Legend has it, when the Santa Anas blow, anything can happen.” Rhys managed to distract me while poking in my eye, clearing it of the dust. So maybe I had been exaggerating slightly, but it still wasn’t pleasant.
“There, that’s it. You okay, love?” He pulled back slightly, which only made me realise how close we’d been standing.
“Better. Thank you.” I stared at him while he stepped back, offering him a smile.
“So umm… you came here…” I trailed off, having completely forgotten what he was here for. “I came to pick up John’s laptop, for his work.” He smiled at me.
“Oh right. Would you mind coming back tomorrow? I just want to check this with Jack’s assistant.” Wouldn’t do good to just give away laptops to random strangers, no matter how good-looking they are.
“Sure, no problem.” Only then did I notice the girl who had been waiting in the car all along, now coming over to us. With a slightly wavering smile, I introduced myself to Rhys.
“I’m Gwen, by the way. Nice to meet you.”
“Rhys,” he gave another smile, “ and this is my Janet,” he said, putting his arm around her waist. There went my hope.
I smiled politely at her. “Hello.”
“See you tomorrow then, Gwen. Don’t blow away.” They made their way back to the car, Rhys offering me a small smile before driving off.
I noticed an old lady with a walking rack and an assistant passing the gate, while I was definitely not tearing up. I gave a little wave. She seemed nice enough.
Five o’clock. Add eight hours… one a.m. in London. Time to work off some jetlag. I plunged into the bed. I felt a childish glee about having all these pillows and duvet all for myself.
I closed my eyes, trying to get to sleep. The sun started shining even brighter through the large windows. Sighing, I sat back up. Oh, buttons on the nightstand. I pressed the bottom one, hoping it wouldn’t blow up something valuable.
Gotcha. Blinds came down all the windows, effectively darkening the room.
-----
Jack lay awake in the bed, trying to get some sleep when someone started knocking on the door. Mywanwy was barking frantically at the outsider. Jack quickly pulled on a t-shirt and some track pants and stumbled down the stairs.
“Who is it?” Jack asked.
“It’s me. Hurry up, it’s freezing.” The voice outside was slurring slightly but Jack could still distinguish those beautiful Welsh vowels he’d come to love in the day he’d been here.
“Gwen, open the door, or I swear I’m gonna take a leak all over your-“
Jack rushed forwards, opening the door. The man on the doorstep turned around, looking at Jack in surprise. Jack stared back, looking at the gorgeous man in front of him. The man was about as tall as he was, with startling blue eyes above a cute button nose.
“You’re not Gwen. Or I’m even drunker than I thought I was. I’m sorry for what I said, I wasn’t expecting you,” the man finished with a small smile.
“I wasn’t expecting you either,” Jack replied.
“Nevertheless, can I come in? I really have to…”
“Yeah, of course. Sure. You had to use the bathroom.” Jack stepped aside to let the man in, eyes roaming over his backside when he walked past. Jack’s eyes were lingering on the man’s tight trousers when his mystery guest suddenly turned around to introduce himself.
“I’m Ianto, by the way, Gwen’s brother.”
“Oh, her brother,” Jack’s mind spontaneously made a few cartwheels at that, “I’m Jack Harkness, I’m staying here while Gwen’s away.”
As he saw Ianto disappear in the small bathroom across the hall, Jack contemplated his chances. Ianto was cute, sure, but he didn’t come across as gay. Still, you never know until you try, and Jack was determined to try the best he could. Maybe a bit of innocent flirting would cheer him up. He looked in the mirror on his right, smoothing down his hair and pulling his t-shirt out of his trousers.
“So, Gwen, where is she?” Ianto emerged from the bathroom with a relieved look on his face, stumbling into a table and nearly dropping the lamp on the floor.
“She didn’t tell you?”
“She could have done… but I might not have heard it. As you noticed, I was a bit… ” Ianto waved a hand to the door, thinking this made everything clear.
Jack chuckled at the intoxicated Welshman. “She’s in Los Angeles.”
Ianto raised his eyebrow, “Gwen? She never goes anywhere.”
“Well, she listed this house on a home-exchange website and I found it. We switched house for two weeks. For the holidays. She’s in L.A. at my house, and I’m here,” Jack finished with a dazzling grin.
Ianto leaned against the wall, unsure if it was because of the alcohol or the grin he’d just received. He lifted his head and looked at Jack curiously.
“People actually do that? Amazing.”
“Apparently, yeah. Here I am.”
“She did ring me last night,” Ianto leaned closer to Jack, as if sharing something private, “I didn’t get a chance to get back to her. You know how it goes.” He let his head hang and stood straight. “I feel awful now.” Ianto seemed to consider this for a moment, then leaned into Jack once more. “Would you mind if I sat? I feel like I might bump into you.”
Jack shook his head, amused by the Welshman’s behaviour. “Sure, take a seat.”
Ianto walked past him, unwinding a brightly coloured scarf and taking off his coat. He hung them up neatly and staggered into the living room and threw himself in the couch. He looked up at Jack, who still stood where he’d left him.
“Are you going to stay in the hallway?”
Jack shook his head to clear it, overwhelmed by how at ease he felt with the Welshman. He walked into the living room, taking place in a seat across Ianto.
“Are you feeling okay?” he asked. Ianto was swaying a bit, leaning into the couch, then sitting back up straight when he heard Jack’s voice.
“I’m fine,” Ianto replied. “Look, I’m sorry about the intrusion. Normally when I frequent the local bar and get inordinately pissed, my big sister puts me up so I don’t get behind the wheel. Unfortunately it’s become a bit of a routine,” Ianto sighed, a flash of sadness appearing briefly on his face. “So how’s it going? I mean, up until I showed up and ruined your night.”
Jack pulled a face. “Not so great actually, I’m leaving tomorrow on a noon plane.”
“Oh,” Ianto sounded vaguely disappointed. “When did you get here?”
“Err… about six hours ago.” Jack at least had the decency to look ashamed.
“Well, we’ve sure made a great impression on you, haven’t we?” Ianto smiled at him.
“It’s not that, I’m just not quite myself. I came here on a stupid whim. Honestly, I’ve never thought about anything less. It’s very unlike me,” Jack realised he was rambling and suddenly changed tactic, “Would you like something to drink?” He sent another megawatt smile to follow.
Ianto leaned over the couch and pointed towards the cupboard. “I think there’s a bottle of brandy. Fancy a glass?”
Jack considered it a moment before nodding. “Sure.”
He took the bottle and started searching glasses in the unfamiliar kitchen.
“So, I’ve totally blanked and forgotten your name. Sorry.”
Jack looked over his shoulder at the Welshman. “Captain Jack Harkness, at your service.”
“So, Jack,” Ianto hesitated slightly. ”Got a girlfriend? Married?”
Triumphantly Jack emerged with two acceptable glasses.
“Why? Do I look married?” Jack teased him.
“Err… I don’t know. I was just wondering if you were…” Ianto trailed off with a blush on his cheeks.
“No, I’m not married. Not at all,” Jack frowned. “I don’t know what that means.” He offered one of the glasses to Ianto.
“Cheers.”
“Cheers. And I’m not married either. If you want to know, that is,” Ianto said, still blushing.
They both took a gulp of brandy, staring awkwardly at each other. Ianto scraped his throat.
“So, is it horrible if I stay? I’ll be gone before you wake up. I promise you will never have to lay eyes on me again.” Ianto aimed a puppy-eyed look at Jack.
“That would be a shame,” Jack muttered. “It’s fine, just let me get you a blanket.”
“Thank you. It’s in the cupboard, on top of the Scrabble,” Ianto pointed out. After a slight pause he asked, “How is it you’re not quite yourself?”
Jack pulled a thick blanket out of the cupboard and turned to face Ianto.
“Well, I just broke up with someone. Yesterday. And I guess that I thought if I was somewhere else, I wouldn’t feel so alone over the holidays. But then I got here, and I’ve never felt more alone in my life. Big surprise,” Jack finished with a wry smile. “Bet you’re glad you knocked here.”
Ianto stood up to look Jack in the eyes and responded softly, “I am, actually.” He leaned forwards so his face was just inches away from Jack’s. “Goodnight.”
Before he had the chance to change his mind, he closed the space left between them and pressed a light kiss on Jack’s lips. He pulled back slightly and blushed, looking away.
Jack was gobsmacked. The Welshman looked up into his eyes, sensing his confusion.
“Would you mind… err I mean, would you try that again? Maybe?” Jack asked hesitantly. He hadn’t meant for this to go so far, but it felt nice. He banished all thoughts of John out of his mind. Ianto leaned in to plant another kiss on his mouth, running his tongue over Jack’s bottom lip when he pulled away. Jack looked at Ianto, taking in the faint blush across his cheekbones. Ianto mistook his gaze and asked, “Bad?”
Jack chuckled and shook his head. “Just… different. It’s been a while since I’ve been kissed like that. My partner wasn’t exactly the most tender lover.”
Ianto’s eyes were transfixed on his. “Really? It’s how I’ve always kissed.”
Jack’s eyes dropped down to Ianto’s red lips, begging to be kissed. Jack took the initiative this time, kissing Ianto lightly. He pulled back again, licking his lip to taste Ianto’s unique flavour on them.
“Maybe if I close my eyes.” Jack closed his eyes, hoping Ianto understood the hint. Ianto brought up his hands and tangled them into Jack’s hair, sweeping through the soft strands. He placed a soft kiss on Jack’s forehead, trailing down his cheek with butterfly kisses and ended nuzzling Jack’s neck. He took a deep breath, taking in Jack’s smell.
“You smell nice. I like your aftershave.”
“I don’t use any,” Jack opened his eyes slightly.
“You smell like that naturally?” Ianto lifted his head from the crook of Jack’s neck, and stared disbelievingly. Jack merely chuckled and nodded, “Apparently. You know,” Jack hesitated, “considering I’m in a stranger’s house and you turned up, completely drunk and unbelievably attractive, and you probably won’t remember me anyway, I think we should have sex. If you want.”
Ianto raised his eyebrow and asked, “Is that a trick question?”
“I’m serious. Because this is what vacation is about, doing unexpected things, and you’re definitely unexpected. And you’re funny, always a bonus.” Jack smirked.
“Never meet me when I’m sober,” Ianto answered with an eye-roll.
“Deal.” With that, Jack threw himself at the Welshman, ravishing his mouth and stroking through the short dark hair. When the need for air became too much to ignore, they pulled away, panting slightly. “Oh, and I should warn you,” Jack said, “I’ve been told my technique is mind-blowing.”
Ianto’s eyes darkened with lust. “I’ll let you know if you have room for improvement.”
Jack grinned at that and stood up, pulling the younger man to his feet. “How do you feel about foreplay?” He fiddled with Ianto’s tie.
Ianto brought his hand to Jack’s crotch, rubbing through the fabric. “I think it’s overrated.” He turned them round, and started to walk to the stairs, throwing an innocent look over his shoulder. “Coming?”
“Oh, I’ll be coming all right,” Jack bounded after him and threw his arms around the Welshman, stopping him in front of the stairs. “I think I know a better purpose for that tie.”
They made their way to the bedroom, leaving behind a trail of clothes.
Jack woke in an unfamiliar bed, snuggling an unfamiliar body. Although, after last night’s memories came back to him, not so unfamiliar. Carefully he tried to disentangle his arms from around the sleeping young man. He padded barefoot over to the bathroom, splashing cold water in his face to wake him up. Gasping at the unpleasant sensation, he looked around to search his track pants. Unable to find them anywhere in the room, he gave up and just pulled on a pair of boxers and an old t-shirt.
He made his way down to the kitchen, pleasantly surprised when he found the track pants thrown over the railing of the stairs. He pulled them on quickly, making his way over to the coffee machine.
He’d tried all the controls, fiddling with them without any success, when he heard laughing behind him. Jack turned around to see Ianto fully dressed, smirking at him.
“Good morning.”
“Morning. You wouldn’t happen to know how this thing works?” Jack was getting desperate for his caffeine fix.
“As a matter of fact, I do. I brought it over here to try and teach Gwen how to make a decent cup of coffee - without success.” Ianto walked over and looked the machine over. He frowned at Jack, “You’ve messed with the settings.” Sighing, he set to work.
Jack took place at the table, watching the young man work his magic. After a few minutes of studying Ianto’s hands, a cup of coffee was placed in front of him.
“I think you take it black, right?”
Jack nodded, and smelled the odour of his coffee, sighing of contentment. He took a sip, and his eyes widened. “Ianto! This is the best coffee I’ve ever had, and I’ve drunk a lot.”
Ianto smirked again, “I try my best.”
Jack cleared his throat, suddenly unsure how to continue. Now that Ianto was sober, he might realise what he’d done and freak out. Stranger things had happened. “You don’t have to worry about a thing here. We’ll probably never see each other again anyway, but it was great meeting you.”
Ianto nodded in a way that seemed to indicate he was just humouring Jack. “Definitely. And for the record, it was indeed mind-blowing. Despite my drunken fumbling.”
Jack laughed at that, interrupted by a ringing phone on the table. He grabbed it and looked at the caller ID, “Tosh.” He handed the mobile back to Ianto. “Sorry. I didn’t mean to look.” Ianto glanced briefly at the screen, then disconnected the call. “I’ll call back later.”
Jack pulled out the cereals from the cupboard and started searching for bowls. Ianto turned around and took one bowl from the cupboard behind him, handing it to Jack.
“You don’t want some?” Jack asked.
“I should probably be going.”
“Oh yeah, I gotta get going myself in a few minutes. Flight to catch and all,” Jack said trying to act casual.
Ianto went to get his coat and shrugged it on. “So listen, I know you’re leaving and absolutely not interested in getting involved but just so you know, things in my life are a bit complicated and even if you were staying, I can promise you, you wouldn’t - ”
“Look, I’m a mess about this myself, and we hardly know each other.”
“Well, I just wanted to be sure you’re okay, because somehow I find I tend to hurt people simply by being myself.”
“I’m not going to fall in love with you, Ianto, I promise. I’m not sure I even fall in love. Not like other people do.”
“You’re an interesting man, Mr. Harkness. It’s a shame you’re leaving. Well, you probably won’t be hearing from me, because even if you wanted to, and you clearly don’t, I have the classic male problem - I always forget to call back after a date. But since this wasn’t a date I guess I’m off the hook.”
Ianto walked away from where he stood by the door and stopped in front of Jack. “But you know, if your flight’s cancelled, or for some reason you change your mind, I’ll be having dinner in the pub with some friends tonight. If not,” Ianto smiled wryly, “goodbye.”
Jack saw him turn around and leave through the door. He stood there, turning over everything Ianto had said in his mind. The younger man had let him know, in a way, that he wanted to see Jack again despite this being intended as a one-night stand. He quickly ate his breakfast and went upstairs to pack.
Some stranger was currently going through his bags, searching forbidden items. Going through the customs had never been Jack’s favourite part, he just had to stand still, shuffle forwards, offer his passport, stand still, shuffle forwards, wait ‘till boarding. He gazed off in the distance, thinking about a certain Welshman.
“You’re good to go, sir.” The gruff voice cut through his thoughts.
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Part 2