Fic: Déjà Vu All Over Again (Arthur/Eames) 6/6
Summary, Rating, Warning, and Notes are found in: Part One
Part Two, Part Three, Part Four, Part Five
~*~*~
(61th) Tuesday 8:35 A.M.
Arthur opened his eyes fluently as he'd always done after waking up from a dream. He sighed as he efficiently pulled out the cannula from his arm.
"Arthur," Eames said bewildered from beside him. "I've no idea."
"Yeah," Arthur's responded. He was used to Eames' reaction, least to say. He suddenly found his hand taken by Eames'. He raised his eyebrows in question.
"Arthur, I know you're miserable," Eames said while looking into Arthur's eyes seriously. After letting Eames see what he'd gone through, Arthur didn't bother trying to hide what he felt around him anymore. "However terrible this thing is for you, there is one thing that I'm grateful for."
Arthur thought about the reasons. Maybe Eames was grateful to be finally starting something together, or having the fantastic sex. Maybe Eames was grateful that he was the sole person keeping Arthur from flying off the handle. Arthur knew he was grateful for that.
"I'm grateful that you're alive." Eames bowed his head. "If this time loop didn't take place then..." he shuddered at the thought. "You would have been dead in my arms on that street."
Arthur never considered his death to be a permanent one. The realization of that simple fact hit him hard like a ton of bricks. Arthur fell back into his chair, head tilted upwards to stare at the ceiling. "Maybe that would have been better," he said bitterly.
"Arthur," Eames said patiently, drawing Arthur's attention. "I never pegged you for taking the easy way out."
Arthur looked down sharply at Eames. Eames' expression remained impassive. Arthur prepped himself to verbally rip Eames a new one until his rattled brain caught up. Eames was deliberately sparking his anger. Anger was better than feeling sorry for himself. Arthur shook his head. "Eames, you never cease to amaze me."
"And your condescending manner is always appreciated by me," returned Eames, who sported a shit-eating grin.
Arthur snorted with amusement. "Thank you. Now, help me through this."
"Yes, dear," Eames said cheekily as he pulled Arthur out of his chair and onto his feet. "I think we need get the others involved."
Arthur's brows furrowed in thought. He wasn't against having Ariadne and Yusuf involved like he was earlier. "I suppose I can invite them into my dreams and..."
"No, no," Eames said firmly. "No one is going into that brilliant mind of yours, Arthur."
Arthur narrowed his eyes suspiciously at Eames. "It's the easiest way..."
"I'm sure we can both convince them that you're not losing your marbles," stated Eames in a matter-of-fact tone.
"It'll take too long to explain things to them," pressed Arthur. He didn't understand why Eames was so opposed to the idea.
"We can give them the cliff notes," countered Eames. "They'll be fine."
Arthur's frown deepened, if that was possible. Eames almost appeared to be...protective? That was odd. There was no reason for Eames to do so. It was perfectly safe. He was about to prod further when Eames blurted out the answer.
"Look before you get an aneurysm trying to figure me out. I don't like the idea of others trampling in your mind." The last part was mumbled, but Arthur heard it anyways.
Arthur decided to let the subject drop. He thought it was cute seeing Eames being protective and maybe jealous having seen something that no one else was invited to see. He couldn't prevent the tingling sensation from spreading throughout his body. He cleared his throat. "Do you think they would be able to help?"
Eames shrugged, "Don't know. I'm just going along with my gut feeling."
"Gut feeling?"
"Intuition if you prefer, Arthur."
"I know what the word means, Eames," Arthur grounded out through clenched teeth. "I need a little more than that."
"It's always specificity with you," Eames said fondly. "I don't know if they can help or not, but they definitely can add a different perspective. Maybe one of them can spot something we missed. I do believe we're on the right track. We just need something else to add to the puzzle."
That was the exact thought Arthur had the night before. He relented, "Let's round up the gang."
~*~*~
"So let me get this straight," summarized Ariadne from where she sat on the couch. "Arthur, you are trapped in a time loop where you can't go beyond 5:30 A.M."
"That's correct," confirmed Arthur. He was standing in front of both Yusuf and Ariadne. Eames stood nearby while Arthur did most to the explanation.
"Wow." Ariadne slumped back into the couch. "Just, wow." She blinked back at Arthur with curiosity. "What's it like?"
If Ariadne was asking questions about how Arthur felt, then he must have done a good job convincing the girl. "Like there's no tomorrow. I wouldn't wish it upon anyone."
"Eames," Yusuf pointed at the forger. "Do you bloody believe this?" Yusuf wasn't buying into the story as easily.
"Yes," Eames said without wavering. "Believe me," Eames said and left it at that without expanding about how he knew.
Arthur crossed his arms and stared at Yusuf. "If it helps, I know you were planning on watching porn today." He rolled his eyes. "I sure as hell walked into you enough times to know."
Yusuf flustered and muttered something in his defense, but it all fell to deaf’s ear. Ariadne hid her giggle behind her hand. Eames looked positively wicked at his friend's expense. "I knew you wanted to be alone for some reason. Who would have figured, yeah mate."
"Piss off," grumbled Yusuf. "That doesn't prove anything." He looked accusingly at Arthur. "Arthur may have installed cameras in this flat."
Arthur raised an eyebrow. What was up with his friends thinking he would bug the phones or install hidden cameras all around? "How would I know exactly what you were planning before you've done it then?" That ended the weak argument.
Ariadne elbowed Yusuf's side. "Come on, Yusuf. Looks like Arthur has gone through a lot and needs a helping hand."
"Yeah, Yusuf, be a sport and play along," encouraged Eames. "Even if you don't believe any of this, at least help us brainstorm the solution."
"Well, there isn't any scientific explanation for this," Yusuf argued. He threw his hands in the air and stood up from the couch. "You cannot ask me to believe that Arthur threw a coin into a fountain and was immediately placed in a predicament where the day repeats itself. It's not possible. You might as well go back to the Trevi and throw another coin in and ask it if you can get out of this problem."
The room went silent as Yusuf finished his triad. The chemist turned to look at everyone in the room who was staring at him, flabbergasted. "What?"
"Yusuf," Eames said slowly. "You are a bloody genius, and don't let anyone say otherwise."
"Yeah," Arthur agreed. He was already moving towards the door.
Excited, Ariadne moved off the couch and went after Arthur. "This might work."
Yusuf looked confused and frowned. "What did I say?"
Eames smiled and clasped his friend on the shoulder. "You tagging along, or would you prefer some alone time with yourself?"
"Shove off!"
Eames laughed as he left Yusuf standing in the middle of the room fuming and went after Arthur and Ariadne.
~*~*~
Tourists crowded the Trevi fountain. Arthur was somewhat annoyed but not surprised. It was a little after lunchtime when they made it to the Trevi. However, he managed to shove himself through the crowd towing Eames and Ariadne behind. He had a determination about him, and somehow Yusuf's haphazard suggestion might work.
Arthur came to a full stop in front of the Trevi and glanced up at the magnificent fountain. His breath caught at the sight. He closed his eyes at the slight breeze that blew a mist of water to his face. His face tingled at the sensation. Eames was right; this might be the source.
"Arthur?" Eames asked.
Arthur nodded, feeling confident. "Let's do it." Fishing out a coin he turned around so his back faced the fountain. Arthur held the coin in his hand, the tension creeping into his shoulder. Deep down he felt stupid doing this.
"Don't forget to make the wish, darling," Eames urged when Arthur hesitated.
Arthur narrowed his eyes at Eames and tossed the coin over his shoulder with the wish to end his misery. He waited, but he didn't feel any different. The air of confidence began to drain.
"Anything?" Ariadne asked in earnest.
Arthur shook his head stiffly and frowned in disappointment. "I don't know what I'm suppose to feel. It could have worked." Something deep down told him otherwise. "I don't think it worked."
"Don't worry," Eames said tightly. "It was worth a try. We'll figure something else out."
Arthur suddenly felt weary as he sunk down to sit on the edge of the fountain. Eames sat next to him, staying close. He felt Eames squeeze his shoulder for encouragement. Arthur reached to cover Eames' hand with his own. Eames smiled with reassurance, silently asking Arthur to continue hoping.
Ariadne stood where she was, studying the Trevi. "I wonder," she said out loud, trailing her thoughts.
"What is it, Ariadne?" prompted Arthur. He knew that look, the look he sported many times himself when he was onto something.
"I wonder," Ariadne repeated. "If there's more to this than just the Trevi Fountain."
Both Arthur and Eames exchanged looks. "Care to expand on that, dove, so the slower ones can follow you?" asked Eames.
"I studied Roman myths while I was doing my undergrad. I wonder if one of the Gods…maybe..." Ariadne tucked her chin in thought. "Salacia may be the culprit here. Some literature states that Goddess is Neptune's wife. She brings fertility to the Earth through rainfall. She sometimes represents sexuality and fertility."
"What?"
"Really?"
Both Arthur and Eames exclaimed at the same time. Arthur looked skeptical, and Eames expressed fascination.
"Tell me more about the sexuality and fertility bit," encouraged Eames. He leaned forward to better listen to Ariadne.
Arthur snorted and punched Eames in the arm. "Not appropriate now, Eames."
Eames looked over his shoulder at Arthur, a gleam of mischief reflecting in his eyes. "Shush there, love. This could be important." He turned back to Ariadne. "The Roman Gods? Do you think we have to sacrifice a cow and present it to an altar of some sort? Maybe that would appease them to let Arthur go." Eames was practically bouncing with glee at the prospect.
"Eames, I am not sacrificing a cow," Arthur said firmly.
Eames’ excitement deflated as he nudged Arthur's elbow. "But Arthur, this may be the key. The Roman Gods here - I wish I would have thought about that."
Arthur rubbed his forehead. Was Eames really a believer? They were in Rome after all. Anything could happen here. Wasn't that the popular saying? He would need to explore Eames’ fascination with Roman myths and legends later, but for now... "Still doesn't make sense. Like I said before, I never wished for...” Arthur's eyes widened when he came to realization. All the pieces coming into place to form a bigger picture made him gasp in awe.
"Um, Arthur," spoke Ariadne. She sounded distanced as Arthur reveled in his revelation.
"Arthur?" Eames voice was sharp as he shook Arthur. "Don't keep us in the dark."
"There were three of us that night," Arthur said, trying to contain his excitement. "The three of us stood in front of the Trevi and threw coins in, making a wish."
"I'm sorry Arthur, I'm not quite following you," Eames said with puzzlement.
"My wish was irrelevant, but your wishes though..." Arthur allowed his thought to be incomplete.
"Why would I...no, we…” Eames indicated to both himself and Ariadne, "wished for something like this to happen to you?"
"Arthur," exclaimed Ariadne as she took a step closer to Arthur. "I would never wish to harm you."
"I know," reassured Arthur. "It's just...I need to know what you wished for." After he said those words, a faint tingling sensation washed over him. He instantly knew he was on the right track, finally.
Silence came over the three. The sound of the water flowed over them as seconds ticked by. Finally, Ariadne spoke, "Arthur, I don't know what I would wish."
"We're not in the moment," added Eames. "We know too much, and it's clouded our judgment."
"It's all right." Arthur reached up cupping Eames' jaw. This was going to be over soon. "I know what needs to be done."
~*~*~
(62th) Tuesday 10:38 P.M.
"Legend says if you throw a coin into the Trevi Fountain, it will ensure your return back to Rome," rattled Arthur as he recited the well-known fact to Ariadne. "You take the coin in your right hand and toss it over your left shoulder."
"Fascinating fact, Arthur," exclaimed Eames, maybe with a little too much enthusiasm for Arthur's liking.
Arthur gave Eames a challenging look. "Do you have something else to add, Eames?"
Eames smirked while placing his hands in his pocket and rocking back on his heels. "As a matter of fact I do, Arthur." He turned to Ariadne who was absorbed with the architectural structure around the fountain. "This is a mythical fountain of love."
Ariadne raised an eyebrow, looking back at Eames with an unbelievable expression. "Oh come on, Eames. Even I know that's not true."
Eames placed his hand over his heart, acting hurt. He then gestured around the fountain, pointing out all the women surrounding the fountain. Some of then were in groups, smiling or looking yearningly at the fountain. Most were looking into the clear night sky as they threw their coins into the fountain. "If it weren't true, then why are all these lovely women throwing their money away on such a romantic night such as this, hm?"
"Eames," said Arthur patiently. "I think you're confused with a movie."
"Oi," Eames sounded shocked at being found. "It was because of that movie that brought such attention to the Trevi. You can't deny that, darling. A lot of lonely souls come here with that misconception in mind." Eames suddenly looked wistful. "And a wish."
Arthur's anticipation mounted to the brim. He waited all day - no, 62 days for this moment to happen again. Funny that he would think that since he repeated the day enough times. When the time looped, he allowed the day to come as it would naturally. He enjoyed his breakfast. When Eames called, he readily agreed to go on the outing with him and Ariadne. He played his part as well as enjoyed the day for once. Now he felt anxious. He wasn't sure why he felt this way, but he was nearly 100 percent certain this was the right thing to do.
Eames placed the coin in Arthur's hand. "Here you go, love. Give it a go, and toss the coin in. Maybe your wish will come true."
Arthur didn't comment but stared at the coin. He threw the coin over his shoulder making one last wish: a plea that this would work. He actually smiled when he watched Eames and Ariadne tossing their coins into the fountain. Now or never, it was time.
Arthur reached out to grab a hold or Eames' arm as they walked away from the Trevi. "Ariadne, why don't you go on ahead? I have something to ask Eames. We won't be long," Arthur said, not looking away from Eames.
Eames glanced back at Arthur with a hint of nervousness. "Is there something you needed to ask me in private, Arthur?"
"Yes." Arthur steeled himself. "I want to know what you wished for."
"It's not lucky to wish and tell," Eames said with a smile, though Arthur thought that smile was a little strained.
"Eames, please tell me what you wished for."
"Arthur, I don't know where you're going with this, but..."
"Eames," Arthur interrupted quietly. He tightened his grip on Eames' arm.
"I wish for all the riches in the world and for me to never lose a hand in poker," Eames quickly uttered.
Arthur shook his head. "I want the truth, Eames. This is very important to me."
There it was. Arthur saw a subtle display of fear on Eames' face. Arthur never broke eye contact. He left his expression open for the man to see. He displayed the hope, fear, and anxiety, leaving nothing out.
Finally, what seemed like forever, Eames sighed, "I wished for the time the man standing next to me to stop running away and be with me."
"You idiot," Arthur said without any real heat before he surged forward to take those delectable lips into a kiss. When he felt Eames immediately relaxing into the kiss, he felt the tingle coursing through his body, electrifying every nerve. He suddenly felt drunk and lightheaded, enough for him to waver. Eames' arms immediately wrapped themselves around Arthur, steadying him.
"Arthur?" Eames' tone contained a hint of concern.
"I'm all right." Arthur got his bearings again and couldn't contain his giddiness. He knew that time would resume again. He carefully placed his hands on Eames' hips. He had Eames where he wanted him.
Eames looked into Arthur's eyes, studying him, but a smile bloomed across his face. "I didn't expect my wish to come true so quickly."
Arthur nearly choked on his laughter as he buried his face into Eames' neck. "There wasn't anything quick about this, Eames. If only you knew." Arthur felt Eames shifting his hold, allowing one hand to rub Arthur's back in a soothing gesture. Eames' hand came to rest on the back Arthur's head. Only then did Arthur realize he was shaking from his ordeal.
"You might have to tell me, darling," Eames murmured into Arthur's ear.
Arthur nodded into Eames' shoulder. "I will later."
They stood a short distance in front of the Trevi Fountain in each other's arms, both in no hurry of moving from their spot. Arthur never believed in myths and legends. He didn't know if the Trevi fountain or the Roman Gods caused this bizarre event. There could be a chance that it might be Rome itself being one of the magical cities at work. Whatever the reason, Arthur felt relieved knowing it didn't matter.
~*~*~
Epilogue
Tuesday 5:36 A.M.
Arthur reached for the alarm blindly and slapped around until he managed to strike the one button that would silence the contraption. He groaned and flopped back into bed, relaxing back into his pillow. He was about to drift off to sleep again when he felt the person next to him nudging a nose to his bare shoulder. He soon felt an open kiss on his neck, then a lick. Arthur groaned and halfhearted batted the culprit away, startling a breathy chuckle in his ear.
"Rise and shine, darling." Eames’ finger walked down Arthur's spine, going lower to cup his ass.
Arthur wiggled his hips and groaned. "Eames, it's too early for this."
The chuckle returned. "Then why on earth did you set up the alarm, love?"
"I have an appointment with a potential client."
Silence settled over them. Arthur thought Eames would let him catch a bit more sleep. Eames kept the soothing petting, lulling him back to sleep. Arthur relaxed even further.
"Arthur," Eames whispered as he nudged his nose in Arthur's hair like a persistent cat. "If you don't get up, I'm going to give you a full snog, and I know how much you love my morning breath."
"Do you call that a threat?" mumbled Arthur in his pillow. He soon found himself flipped onto his back with Eames looming over him. Eames puckered his lips with exaggeration, making smacking noises as he came closer to Arthur. Arthur wrinkled his nose. He reached up to plant the palm of his hand on Eames' face, pushing him, perhaps a little too hard, away. "Why don't you go use the bathroom first?"
"Nope," Eames smirked as he flopped on his side, facing Arthur. "If I did that, you'll fall right back to sleep, and the whole process will start all over again. I think the whole efficiency thing you carry around you is a farce. Honestly, Arthur, how do you manage to get your perky little arse out of bed?"
"I get my perky little arse out of bed with a combination of hitting the snooze button roughly seven times and setting the alarm a little earlier to give me plenty of time." Arthur reached to rub his eyes before rolling himself out of bed. He wiggled his toes into the plush carpet before getting up and heading to the bathroom, figuring he wouldn't get any more sleep. Eames laughed at him from behind.
Arthur thought it would be a huge adjustment sharing his life with Eames, but he found it to be an easy transition. Not everything was smooth sailing, like the fact that Eames was actually a morning person ready to face the day with a bundle of energy. Arthur needed more time and quickly put Eames in his place early on.
There were other nuances they discovered about each other everyday, little jewels of treasures or thorns to be cherished or compromised. It had been a while since either of them maintained a long-term relationship, and it showed. They quarreled, but they also had more moments of companionship. For better or for worse, Arthur was grateful that they had time. He lost count of the amount of days in which he woke up entwined with Eames. His body soaked up the fact that he was no longer alone. He knew Eames felt the same way.
When Arthur walked out of the bathroom to the scent of his favorite coffee brewing, he smiled. Eames walked past him for his turn in the bathroom, pausing enough to give Arthur a peck on the cheek and gentle slap on the ass. "Good morning, love."
Arthur rolled his eyes and allowed the groping. He went into the kitchen and started making breakfast. They had been together long enough to start a routine. Ah, a blissful routine they both could share for as long as time would allow them, and Arthur made sure they had plenty of that: time.
Fin
Part Two, Part Three, Part Four, Part Five
~*~*~
(61th) Tuesday 8:35 A.M.
Arthur opened his eyes fluently as he'd always done after waking up from a dream. He sighed as he efficiently pulled out the cannula from his arm.
"Arthur," Eames said bewildered from beside him. "I've no idea."
"Yeah," Arthur's responded. He was used to Eames' reaction, least to say. He suddenly found his hand taken by Eames'. He raised his eyebrows in question.
"Arthur, I know you're miserable," Eames said while looking into Arthur's eyes seriously. After letting Eames see what he'd gone through, Arthur didn't bother trying to hide what he felt around him anymore. "However terrible this thing is for you, there is one thing that I'm grateful for."
Arthur thought about the reasons. Maybe Eames was grateful to be finally starting something together, or having the fantastic sex. Maybe Eames was grateful that he was the sole person keeping Arthur from flying off the handle. Arthur knew he was grateful for that.
"I'm grateful that you're alive." Eames bowed his head. "If this time loop didn't take place then..." he shuddered at the thought. "You would have been dead in my arms on that street."
Arthur never considered his death to be a permanent one. The realization of that simple fact hit him hard like a ton of bricks. Arthur fell back into his chair, head tilted upwards to stare at the ceiling. "Maybe that would have been better," he said bitterly.
"Arthur," Eames said patiently, drawing Arthur's attention. "I never pegged you for taking the easy way out."
Arthur looked down sharply at Eames. Eames' expression remained impassive. Arthur prepped himself to verbally rip Eames a new one until his rattled brain caught up. Eames was deliberately sparking his anger. Anger was better than feeling sorry for himself. Arthur shook his head. "Eames, you never cease to amaze me."
"And your condescending manner is always appreciated by me," returned Eames, who sported a shit-eating grin.
Arthur snorted with amusement. "Thank you. Now, help me through this."
"Yes, dear," Eames said cheekily as he pulled Arthur out of his chair and onto his feet. "I think we need get the others involved."
Arthur's brows furrowed in thought. He wasn't against having Ariadne and Yusuf involved like he was earlier. "I suppose I can invite them into my dreams and..."
"No, no," Eames said firmly. "No one is going into that brilliant mind of yours, Arthur."
Arthur narrowed his eyes suspiciously at Eames. "It's the easiest way..."
"I'm sure we can both convince them that you're not losing your marbles," stated Eames in a matter-of-fact tone.
"It'll take too long to explain things to them," pressed Arthur. He didn't understand why Eames was so opposed to the idea.
"We can give them the cliff notes," countered Eames. "They'll be fine."
Arthur's frown deepened, if that was possible. Eames almost appeared to be...protective? That was odd. There was no reason for Eames to do so. It was perfectly safe. He was about to prod further when Eames blurted out the answer.
"Look before you get an aneurysm trying to figure me out. I don't like the idea of others trampling in your mind." The last part was mumbled, but Arthur heard it anyways.
Arthur decided to let the subject drop. He thought it was cute seeing Eames being protective and maybe jealous having seen something that no one else was invited to see. He couldn't prevent the tingling sensation from spreading throughout his body. He cleared his throat. "Do you think they would be able to help?"
Eames shrugged, "Don't know. I'm just going along with my gut feeling."
"Gut feeling?"
"Intuition if you prefer, Arthur."
"I know what the word means, Eames," Arthur grounded out through clenched teeth. "I need a little more than that."
"It's always specificity with you," Eames said fondly. "I don't know if they can help or not, but they definitely can add a different perspective. Maybe one of them can spot something we missed. I do believe we're on the right track. We just need something else to add to the puzzle."
That was the exact thought Arthur had the night before. He relented, "Let's round up the gang."
~*~*~
"So let me get this straight," summarized Ariadne from where she sat on the couch. "Arthur, you are trapped in a time loop where you can't go beyond 5:30 A.M."
"That's correct," confirmed Arthur. He was standing in front of both Yusuf and Ariadne. Eames stood nearby while Arthur did most to the explanation.
"Wow." Ariadne slumped back into the couch. "Just, wow." She blinked back at Arthur with curiosity. "What's it like?"
If Ariadne was asking questions about how Arthur felt, then he must have done a good job convincing the girl. "Like there's no tomorrow. I wouldn't wish it upon anyone."
"Eames," Yusuf pointed at the forger. "Do you bloody believe this?" Yusuf wasn't buying into the story as easily.
"Yes," Eames said without wavering. "Believe me," Eames said and left it at that without expanding about how he knew.
Arthur crossed his arms and stared at Yusuf. "If it helps, I know you were planning on watching porn today." He rolled his eyes. "I sure as hell walked into you enough times to know."
Yusuf flustered and muttered something in his defense, but it all fell to deaf’s ear. Ariadne hid her giggle behind her hand. Eames looked positively wicked at his friend's expense. "I knew you wanted to be alone for some reason. Who would have figured, yeah mate."
"Piss off," grumbled Yusuf. "That doesn't prove anything." He looked accusingly at Arthur. "Arthur may have installed cameras in this flat."
Arthur raised an eyebrow. What was up with his friends thinking he would bug the phones or install hidden cameras all around? "How would I know exactly what you were planning before you've done it then?" That ended the weak argument.
Ariadne elbowed Yusuf's side. "Come on, Yusuf. Looks like Arthur has gone through a lot and needs a helping hand."
"Yeah, Yusuf, be a sport and play along," encouraged Eames. "Even if you don't believe any of this, at least help us brainstorm the solution."
"Well, there isn't any scientific explanation for this," Yusuf argued. He threw his hands in the air and stood up from the couch. "You cannot ask me to believe that Arthur threw a coin into a fountain and was immediately placed in a predicament where the day repeats itself. It's not possible. You might as well go back to the Trevi and throw another coin in and ask it if you can get out of this problem."
The room went silent as Yusuf finished his triad. The chemist turned to look at everyone in the room who was staring at him, flabbergasted. "What?"
"Yusuf," Eames said slowly. "You are a bloody genius, and don't let anyone say otherwise."
"Yeah," Arthur agreed. He was already moving towards the door.
Excited, Ariadne moved off the couch and went after Arthur. "This might work."
Yusuf looked confused and frowned. "What did I say?"
Eames smiled and clasped his friend on the shoulder. "You tagging along, or would you prefer some alone time with yourself?"
"Shove off!"
Eames laughed as he left Yusuf standing in the middle of the room fuming and went after Arthur and Ariadne.
~*~*~
Tourists crowded the Trevi fountain. Arthur was somewhat annoyed but not surprised. It was a little after lunchtime when they made it to the Trevi. However, he managed to shove himself through the crowd towing Eames and Ariadne behind. He had a determination about him, and somehow Yusuf's haphazard suggestion might work.
Arthur came to a full stop in front of the Trevi and glanced up at the magnificent fountain. His breath caught at the sight. He closed his eyes at the slight breeze that blew a mist of water to his face. His face tingled at the sensation. Eames was right; this might be the source.
"Arthur?" Eames asked.
Arthur nodded, feeling confident. "Let's do it." Fishing out a coin he turned around so his back faced the fountain. Arthur held the coin in his hand, the tension creeping into his shoulder. Deep down he felt stupid doing this.
"Don't forget to make the wish, darling," Eames urged when Arthur hesitated.
Arthur narrowed his eyes at Eames and tossed the coin over his shoulder with the wish to end his misery. He waited, but he didn't feel any different. The air of confidence began to drain.
"Anything?" Ariadne asked in earnest.
Arthur shook his head stiffly and frowned in disappointment. "I don't know what I'm suppose to feel. It could have worked." Something deep down told him otherwise. "I don't think it worked."
"Don't worry," Eames said tightly. "It was worth a try. We'll figure something else out."
Arthur suddenly felt weary as he sunk down to sit on the edge of the fountain. Eames sat next to him, staying close. He felt Eames squeeze his shoulder for encouragement. Arthur reached to cover Eames' hand with his own. Eames smiled with reassurance, silently asking Arthur to continue hoping.
Ariadne stood where she was, studying the Trevi. "I wonder," she said out loud, trailing her thoughts.
"What is it, Ariadne?" prompted Arthur. He knew that look, the look he sported many times himself when he was onto something.
"I wonder," Ariadne repeated. "If there's more to this than just the Trevi Fountain."
Both Arthur and Eames exchanged looks. "Care to expand on that, dove, so the slower ones can follow you?" asked Eames.
"I studied Roman myths while I was doing my undergrad. I wonder if one of the Gods…maybe..." Ariadne tucked her chin in thought. "Salacia may be the culprit here. Some literature states that Goddess is Neptune's wife. She brings fertility to the Earth through rainfall. She sometimes represents sexuality and fertility."
"What?"
"Really?"
Both Arthur and Eames exclaimed at the same time. Arthur looked skeptical, and Eames expressed fascination.
"Tell me more about the sexuality and fertility bit," encouraged Eames. He leaned forward to better listen to Ariadne.
Arthur snorted and punched Eames in the arm. "Not appropriate now, Eames."
Eames looked over his shoulder at Arthur, a gleam of mischief reflecting in his eyes. "Shush there, love. This could be important." He turned back to Ariadne. "The Roman Gods? Do you think we have to sacrifice a cow and present it to an altar of some sort? Maybe that would appease them to let Arthur go." Eames was practically bouncing with glee at the prospect.
"Eames, I am not sacrificing a cow," Arthur said firmly.
Eames’ excitement deflated as he nudged Arthur's elbow. "But Arthur, this may be the key. The Roman Gods here - I wish I would have thought about that."
Arthur rubbed his forehead. Was Eames really a believer? They were in Rome after all. Anything could happen here. Wasn't that the popular saying? He would need to explore Eames’ fascination with Roman myths and legends later, but for now... "Still doesn't make sense. Like I said before, I never wished for...” Arthur's eyes widened when he came to realization. All the pieces coming into place to form a bigger picture made him gasp in awe.
"Um, Arthur," spoke Ariadne. She sounded distanced as Arthur reveled in his revelation.
"Arthur?" Eames voice was sharp as he shook Arthur. "Don't keep us in the dark."
"There were three of us that night," Arthur said, trying to contain his excitement. "The three of us stood in front of the Trevi and threw coins in, making a wish."
"I'm sorry Arthur, I'm not quite following you," Eames said with puzzlement.
"My wish was irrelevant, but your wishes though..." Arthur allowed his thought to be incomplete.
"Why would I...no, we…” Eames indicated to both himself and Ariadne, "wished for something like this to happen to you?"
"Arthur," exclaimed Ariadne as she took a step closer to Arthur. "I would never wish to harm you."
"I know," reassured Arthur. "It's just...I need to know what you wished for." After he said those words, a faint tingling sensation washed over him. He instantly knew he was on the right track, finally.
Silence came over the three. The sound of the water flowed over them as seconds ticked by. Finally, Ariadne spoke, "Arthur, I don't know what I would wish."
"We're not in the moment," added Eames. "We know too much, and it's clouded our judgment."
"It's all right." Arthur reached up cupping Eames' jaw. This was going to be over soon. "I know what needs to be done."
~*~*~
(62th) Tuesday 10:38 P.M.
"Legend says if you throw a coin into the Trevi Fountain, it will ensure your return back to Rome," rattled Arthur as he recited the well-known fact to Ariadne. "You take the coin in your right hand and toss it over your left shoulder."
"Fascinating fact, Arthur," exclaimed Eames, maybe with a little too much enthusiasm for Arthur's liking.
Arthur gave Eames a challenging look. "Do you have something else to add, Eames?"
Eames smirked while placing his hands in his pocket and rocking back on his heels. "As a matter of fact I do, Arthur." He turned to Ariadne who was absorbed with the architectural structure around the fountain. "This is a mythical fountain of love."
Ariadne raised an eyebrow, looking back at Eames with an unbelievable expression. "Oh come on, Eames. Even I know that's not true."
Eames placed his hand over his heart, acting hurt. He then gestured around the fountain, pointing out all the women surrounding the fountain. Some of then were in groups, smiling or looking yearningly at the fountain. Most were looking into the clear night sky as they threw their coins into the fountain. "If it weren't true, then why are all these lovely women throwing their money away on such a romantic night such as this, hm?"
"Eames," said Arthur patiently. "I think you're confused with a movie."
"Oi," Eames sounded shocked at being found. "It was because of that movie that brought such attention to the Trevi. You can't deny that, darling. A lot of lonely souls come here with that misconception in mind." Eames suddenly looked wistful. "And a wish."
Arthur's anticipation mounted to the brim. He waited all day - no, 62 days for this moment to happen again. Funny that he would think that since he repeated the day enough times. When the time looped, he allowed the day to come as it would naturally. He enjoyed his breakfast. When Eames called, he readily agreed to go on the outing with him and Ariadne. He played his part as well as enjoyed the day for once. Now he felt anxious. He wasn't sure why he felt this way, but he was nearly 100 percent certain this was the right thing to do.
Eames placed the coin in Arthur's hand. "Here you go, love. Give it a go, and toss the coin in. Maybe your wish will come true."
Arthur didn't comment but stared at the coin. He threw the coin over his shoulder making one last wish: a plea that this would work. He actually smiled when he watched Eames and Ariadne tossing their coins into the fountain. Now or never, it was time.
Arthur reached out to grab a hold or Eames' arm as they walked away from the Trevi. "Ariadne, why don't you go on ahead? I have something to ask Eames. We won't be long," Arthur said, not looking away from Eames.
Eames glanced back at Arthur with a hint of nervousness. "Is there something you needed to ask me in private, Arthur?"
"Yes." Arthur steeled himself. "I want to know what you wished for."
"It's not lucky to wish and tell," Eames said with a smile, though Arthur thought that smile was a little strained.
"Eames, please tell me what you wished for."
"Arthur, I don't know where you're going with this, but..."
"Eames," Arthur interrupted quietly. He tightened his grip on Eames' arm.
"I wish for all the riches in the world and for me to never lose a hand in poker," Eames quickly uttered.
Arthur shook his head. "I want the truth, Eames. This is very important to me."
There it was. Arthur saw a subtle display of fear on Eames' face. Arthur never broke eye contact. He left his expression open for the man to see. He displayed the hope, fear, and anxiety, leaving nothing out.
Finally, what seemed like forever, Eames sighed, "I wished for the time the man standing next to me to stop running away and be with me."
"You idiot," Arthur said without any real heat before he surged forward to take those delectable lips into a kiss. When he felt Eames immediately relaxing into the kiss, he felt the tingle coursing through his body, electrifying every nerve. He suddenly felt drunk and lightheaded, enough for him to waver. Eames' arms immediately wrapped themselves around Arthur, steadying him.
"Arthur?" Eames' tone contained a hint of concern.
"I'm all right." Arthur got his bearings again and couldn't contain his giddiness. He knew that time would resume again. He carefully placed his hands on Eames' hips. He had Eames where he wanted him.
Eames looked into Arthur's eyes, studying him, but a smile bloomed across his face. "I didn't expect my wish to come true so quickly."
Arthur nearly choked on his laughter as he buried his face into Eames' neck. "There wasn't anything quick about this, Eames. If only you knew." Arthur felt Eames shifting his hold, allowing one hand to rub Arthur's back in a soothing gesture. Eames' hand came to rest on the back Arthur's head. Only then did Arthur realize he was shaking from his ordeal.
"You might have to tell me, darling," Eames murmured into Arthur's ear.
Arthur nodded into Eames' shoulder. "I will later."
They stood a short distance in front of the Trevi Fountain in each other's arms, both in no hurry of moving from their spot. Arthur never believed in myths and legends. He didn't know if the Trevi fountain or the Roman Gods caused this bizarre event. There could be a chance that it might be Rome itself being one of the magical cities at work. Whatever the reason, Arthur felt relieved knowing it didn't matter.
~*~*~
Epilogue
Tuesday 5:36 A.M.
Arthur reached for the alarm blindly and slapped around until he managed to strike the one button that would silence the contraption. He groaned and flopped back into bed, relaxing back into his pillow. He was about to drift off to sleep again when he felt the person next to him nudging a nose to his bare shoulder. He soon felt an open kiss on his neck, then a lick. Arthur groaned and halfhearted batted the culprit away, startling a breathy chuckle in his ear.
"Rise and shine, darling." Eames’ finger walked down Arthur's spine, going lower to cup his ass.
Arthur wiggled his hips and groaned. "Eames, it's too early for this."
The chuckle returned. "Then why on earth did you set up the alarm, love?"
"I have an appointment with a potential client."
Silence settled over them. Arthur thought Eames would let him catch a bit more sleep. Eames kept the soothing petting, lulling him back to sleep. Arthur relaxed even further.
"Arthur," Eames whispered as he nudged his nose in Arthur's hair like a persistent cat. "If you don't get up, I'm going to give you a full snog, and I know how much you love my morning breath."
"Do you call that a threat?" mumbled Arthur in his pillow. He soon found himself flipped onto his back with Eames looming over him. Eames puckered his lips with exaggeration, making smacking noises as he came closer to Arthur. Arthur wrinkled his nose. He reached up to plant the palm of his hand on Eames' face, pushing him, perhaps a little too hard, away. "Why don't you go use the bathroom first?"
"Nope," Eames smirked as he flopped on his side, facing Arthur. "If I did that, you'll fall right back to sleep, and the whole process will start all over again. I think the whole efficiency thing you carry around you is a farce. Honestly, Arthur, how do you manage to get your perky little arse out of bed?"
"I get my perky little arse out of bed with a combination of hitting the snooze button roughly seven times and setting the alarm a little earlier to give me plenty of time." Arthur reached to rub his eyes before rolling himself out of bed. He wiggled his toes into the plush carpet before getting up and heading to the bathroom, figuring he wouldn't get any more sleep. Eames laughed at him from behind.
Arthur thought it would be a huge adjustment sharing his life with Eames, but he found it to be an easy transition. Not everything was smooth sailing, like the fact that Eames was actually a morning person ready to face the day with a bundle of energy. Arthur needed more time and quickly put Eames in his place early on.
There were other nuances they discovered about each other everyday, little jewels of treasures or thorns to be cherished or compromised. It had been a while since either of them maintained a long-term relationship, and it showed. They quarreled, but they also had more moments of companionship. For better or for worse, Arthur was grateful that they had time. He lost count of the amount of days in which he woke up entwined with Eames. His body soaked up the fact that he was no longer alone. He knew Eames felt the same way.
When Arthur walked out of the bathroom to the scent of his favorite coffee brewing, he smiled. Eames walked past him for his turn in the bathroom, pausing enough to give Arthur a peck on the cheek and gentle slap on the ass. "Good morning, love."
Arthur rolled his eyes and allowed the groping. He went into the kitchen and started making breakfast. They had been together long enough to start a routine. Ah, a blissful routine they both could share for as long as time would allow them, and Arthur made sure they had plenty of that: time.
Fin