Fic: Walking in a Winter Wonderland (Beckett/Zelenka, NC-17)
Title: Walking in a Winter Wonderland
Author: sam_gamgee
Recipient: padfootthegrim
Pairing: Beckett/Zelenka
Rating: NC-17
Disclaimer: Sadly, I do not own them.
Author's Notes: Many thanks to squeakyoflight for being an awesome beta!
Summary: Carson gets some unexpected holiday cheer.
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"Please, Carson, I really need this," Rodney pleaded. "You know I wouldn't be asking if it wasn't important."
"Yes, but your department's holiday party? They already think we're a couple," Carson asked doubtfully.
"Oh, please," Rodney huffed. "You could show up naked and people would love you. And you know they don't really care what we are or aren't doing - it's just something for them to talk about. And I don't need to be there all night - just for a couple of hours. Please, Carson," he begged. "It's my job we're talking about!"
Carson sighed. "And you should've thought of that before you told your boss off. I'm tired of having to help you smooth things over, Rodney."
"I'll pay your part of the rent for the next two months," Rodney begged.
"Three months," Carson bargained.
Rodney looked like he was about to argue, then said, "Done. It's Friday night and I know you're free because I checked your calendar."
"Rodney!" Carson said in exasperation, wondering, yet again, what he saw in his roommate and best friend.
Friday night came, and Carson got ready for the party with a sigh. Regardless of the annoyance Carson had felt at Rodney's assumptions, he really did care for the other man. They had an odd relationship - in that, on the surface they were complete opposites, but somehow they got along well and managed to balance each other out. And they still thought it surprising when other people were amazed to find they weren't together romantically.
And Carson hadn't regretted the decision he'd made a little over a year and a half ago when out of the blue, Rodney asked him to move to San Francisco with him, saying he'd had enough of Colorado Springs and wanted a fresh start somewhere else. Carson, feeling trapped himself, had agreed - thinking a change of scenery would help. It hadn't helped as much as he'd hoped, but it had given him a better perspective on things, and that was something at least.
As soon as they entered one of the university's reception rooms, Rodney was pulled away almost immediately. Carson sighed, used to this by now - Rodney would be busy for the next hour and a half at least, making up to his boss by schmoozing with wealthy alumni and getting them to donate to the department. Meanwhile, Carson would fend for himself against the women in attendance. Thankfully, most of them knew him by now and were older and married so he didn't have to worry about a little harmless flirting. As he expected, Carson was snapped up a moment after Rodney by one of those very wives.
"Have you met Radek yet?" she asked him, drawing Carson over to a small knot of women. At Carson's shake of his head, she said, "Oh, he is such a dear. I think the two of you would get along famously. He was a professor, though he's recently taken up photography - but I think it may be more of a hobby for him. Look who it is, ladies."
Carson chatted with the women for a while before excusing himself to get a drink. As he approached the refreshment table, a vaguely familiar looking man snapped a picture of him. Before Carson could say anything to him, however, one of the faculty members came between them and pulled the stranger aside to take some pictures. Carson watched him go, intrigued as the Physics Department had never hired a photographer before for any of their parties. And while he couldn't call the other man traditionally attractive, there was something about him that drew Carson's attention.
Carson poured himself a cup of punch and took a sip, but before he could really get started in his self-pity over not having anyone for yet another holiday season, David Parrish joined him.
"Still no luck on the Rodney front?" David asked.
"Never was, never will be, don't care either way," Carson replied. It was a little joke of theirs and Carson smiled. "How are you, David?" he asked, shaking the other man's hand.
"Good, good," David replied. "Evan and I are looking into adopting. So if Rodney hasn't suddenly caught your eye, who has?" Adopting a stuffy English accent, he asked, "Old Mrs. Fitzwilliam, perhaps? A doting dowager looking for a little fun in her twilight years? Ooh, or perhaps a mysterious stranger?"
"I neither admit nor deny anything other than Mrs. Fitzwilliam has nothing to do with it," Carson replied before taking another sip of punch. "But congratulations to you and Evan - the two of you are going to make great fathers. Where is your other half, by the way?"
"Home with a cold. I wasn't even going to come tonight, but I had to get out for a while - we men make bad patients."
Carson laughed. "That's a fair assessment. When I was still practicing, I can't tell you how many men were there mainly because their wives/girlfriends/whoever had dragged them in."
Carson and David chatted for a few more minutes and Carson found himself following the mysterious photographer around the room with his eyes.
Just as David was about to leave, the photographer was at their side. "Would you like your picture together?" he asked.
"Sure, why not?" David asked, throwing his arm around Carson's shoulders. Carson automatically put an arm around David's waist.
The photographer snapped the picture and looked at it on the screen. "Good," he said with a nod.
Pulling away, David said, "I'll see you later, Carson," and asked the photographer, "Can I talk to you for a few minutes?"
"Have a good night," Carson replied as David and the photographer walked away together and Rodney joined him. "Is your job safe?" he asked Rodney. "Or shall I actually start worrying?"
"It's safe," Rodney replied with a nod. "Feel like getting out of here?"
"Sure. Any idea who the photographer is?"
"Somebody in the department," Rodney replied casually. "I think."
"Do you even try to remember people's names anymore?" Carson asked as they exited the building.
"Only if they're important - or monumentally stupid."
Carson shook his head in amusement. "It's a wonder how we don't kill each other."
Monday morning, Carson distractedly answered his office phone, "Dr. Carson Beckett, Genetics. How may I help you?"
"Hey, it's David. Don't hate me."
"Conversations that start that way rarely end well," Carson replied, putting his pen down and leaning back in his chair.
"I set you up on a blind date," David said and Carson could hear him wincing over the phone. "I think the guy would be right up your alley - smart, dry sense of humor, and good-looking but not a pretty boy."
"I could be interested," Carson replied. It had been ages since he'd been on a date, and even longer since he'd been in a relationship.
"That's what I was thinking. Now here's the part where I'm hoping you won't hate me. How about tonight?"
Carson sighed. "I'm proctoring a make-up exam tonight."
"Hmm. It seemed like tonight was the only night he'd be free for a while. What's your schedule like otherwise?"
"Eh. If I had enough advance notice, I could be flexible. I've got a class with papers due in a couple days and another two with tests soon after, so I'm going to be up in my eyeballs with things to grade for a while. Then there'll be a brief respite with a lot of office hours and tutoring for finals."
"Okay, I'm going to talk to him and get back to you because I think the two of you would be great for each other."
"I hope you're right, David," Carson replied. "But thank you for thinking of me. I'll talk to you later."
He hung up the phone and rubbed his hands over his face. It had been ages since he'd dated - or even thought about dating - and his last long-term relationship hadn't ended well. He hadn't sworn off love, exactly, but it had quickly dropped on his list of priorities to a point that he barely thought about unless it was the holiday season, and even then it was more of a niggling in the back of his mind that it might be nice to have someone to share them with.
But now, his curiosity was piqued. He'd never told his friends and co-workers he didn't want to be set up, or try to dissuade them if they mentioned they knew someone who'd be compatible, but he never really followed through with the information they'd give him. And, for the most part, they hadn't tried either - probably figuring he had no trouble finding his own dates - which he didn't, if he actually wanted to look. The fact that David was actually going to the trouble to set him up with an actual date with another guy made him curious.
He wondered if it would be bad etiquette to call David back and demand the other guy's information so he could call him himself and arrange a meeting between them. Then he decided that it could be fun to let this run its natural course - whatever that may be. He blew out a breath and went back to grading papers.
That evening, Carson's mind was still going over the idea of a blind date as he absently watched his student take the make-up exam. As he quickly finished grading the test for the student, Carson's cell phone rang. Carson quickly wrote the grade on the top of the test and circled it with a flourish and handed it back to the student, who smiled and left. Flipping his phone open, he said, "Hello?"
"Hey," David replied. "So, how's tomorrow night? He's really anxious to meet you."
Carson quickly went over his schedule in his head. "I think tomorrow night could work. And what did you tell him about me?"
"Oh, the usual - that you've got a big dick and that you're great in bed."
Carson rolled his eyes and dryly replied, "You're such a great friend."
"I know," David replied brightly. "Seriously - I just told him that you were a great guy with a sense of humor and that you weren't looking for anything serious, just someone to have some fun with. And if it developed into something more, then it did and if it didn't, it didn't. So, tomorrow night?"
"Tomorrow night will work." Carson entered the grade into his grade book.
"Great. He'll meet you at the Italian place just off campus at seven. I told him to bring flowers."
"I'm not a girl, David."
"No, but I'm a botanist and a romantic. His name's Radek Zelenka. Evan's making me get off the phone now. Something about blue balls not being good for our relationship. Which, I don't even know what he's complaining about because -" he moved the receiver and yelled at Evan, who Carson could hear grumbling in the background, "he's not getting any anyway!" Back to Carson, he said, "So, tomorrow - seven, Italian place by campus. Don't forget."
"If this goes horribly, I'm blaming you."
"Okay. I expect a full report afterwards. Oh, and I told Rodney." He hung up before Carson could get in the last word. Carson sighed and closed up his office.
Well... that was just peachy. Rodney would be like a dog with a bone on this. Out of all of Carson's friends, he had always been the most vocal about Carson getting back out into the dating game. He'd want to know every last detail about it so he could live vicariously through Carson. Carson had tried to get him to go out himself, but Rodney had always brushed it off by saying he was too busy or that he was no good at dating, which Carson actually believed, or that the whole thing was too messy and just a waste of time. Sometimes Carson was inclined to agree, but the romantic inside of him enjoyed the whole thing.
Unlike the warm weather that enveloped him as he walked to his car. Colorado Springs, at least, had had similar temperatures to Scotland, but here in San Francisco, it was down-right balmy. And it clashed with the fantasies he'd had as a child of enjoying the snow, cold weather, and holidays with a romantic partner.
Driving home, Carson remembered - his date had the same first name as someone the Physics 'wives club' knew. It was an odd enough name that he wondered if they were the same person, considering the ladies and David seemed to think they'd be a great match. Even if he wasn't the same guy, it was tempting to look him up online and see what sort of information he could find so he wasn't going into this completely blind. But at the same time, that was part of a blind date, wasn't it? It was only a day, not even. He could wait until dinner the next evening to find out. The suspense might even be fun.
"What did David lure you into?" Rodney asked from the dining room table.
"Nothing, why?" Carson asked, feigning ignorance and setting his bag down by the door.
"I know he did because he called here and told me that he set you up on a date."
"Oh," Carson said.
"'Oh'? That's all you can say - 'oh'?" Rodney replied indignantly.
"What do you want me to say, Rodney?" Carson asked, coming to stand in front of Rodney. "It's just a date, it's not like it's the end of the world or anything like that. I didn't even ask him to do it, he did it of his own volition. Besides, I don't even know the guy he's setting me up with." He paused and then teased, "Are you jealous?"
Rodney sputtered for a second before crossly replying, "No! No, I'm not! It's just that you never go on dates. This is very unlike you!"
"Maybe it is," Carson replied. "But maybe I felt like doing something a little 'unlike me'. I do the same things all the time and it's getting a little boring. And it's just a date - more than likely we'll have a nice time and then we'll go our separate ways. Then, afterwards, David will grill me over everything and wish he'd known that we weren't as compatible as he thought we would be, and that'll be the end of it. There's no harm in it. And I do think you're jealous. Maybe if you ask David nicely, he'll find someone for you too."
Rodney rolled his eyes and turned his attention back to where his laptop was sitting on the dining room table. "Relationships are a waste of time."
"That's because you're always surprised they take more work than you're expecting. But, for some people, it's worth it and I think I might be ready to test the waters and rejoin that group. The date's tomorrow night."
Rodney sputtered. "But - but - tomorrow night -"
"Is nothing out of the ordinary, Rodney," Carson said firmly. "If you're so focused on you and I going out to dinner, we can do it another night." Carson smirked. "Would you like me to ask my date if he's got someone for you? Or would you like me to call David on your behalf? I'm sure he wouldn't mind finding someone for you."
"You're evil," Rodney said, crossing his arms. "I'd never live it down between him and Evan."
"Maybe you need it - I'm sure there's got to be somebody out there for you who can get you out of your head from time to time and smooth out your rough edges. Though, if there is, I'd like to meet him and double check his sanity."
"Oh, ha ha. You're hysterical," Rodney glared as he went back to work.
"So, shall I bring you back a doggie bag?" Carson asked sweetly, wrapping his arms around Rodney's shoulders. "I know you'll be waiting up for me, wanting to know every little detail about the date."
"Go to hell," Rodney grumbled, not looking up from where he was typing furiously on his laptop.
"I love you too," Carson said warmly and placed a sloppy kiss on Rodney's temple before straightening and heading into the kitchen. "Is there anything edible in here? Or did you forget to go shopping again this weekend?"
"Oh, shit."
"That's what I thought," Carson muttered to himself with a sigh. Sometimes he wondered why they traded off on grocery shopping and he didn't just do it himself. Rodney was anal-retentive enough about other things that it would be a fair trade. And at least then Carson could be certain that the kitchen would be stocked with food that didn't look like it was part of a freaky science experiment. He was able to find a can of soup and some crackers that were still good and ate them while the kettle boiled. Done, he joined Rodney at the dining room table with a large mug of tea and a stack of papers to grade, surprised he was able to focus on something other than his impending date.
The next evening was a different story, however. Carson couldn't help watching the clock as he sat through empty office hours, surprised no students showed up with questions about their paper grades or upcoming final exams. What if the date was actually a disaster? Granted, he doubted David would pick someone who was a complete opposite, but people could be read wrong in certain situations and since Carson was finally beginning to want to venture back out into the dating world, he hoped this wasn't one of those times. After what happened last time, he didn't want to invest time and effort into it and find it was all for naught.
Finally, the clock freed him from his duty and he left. The Italian restaurant wasn't far from his building, so Carson just walked, arriving a minute or two after seven.
He went inside and gave the hostess a warm smile. "Hi," he said. "I'm supposed to be meeting someone here - Radek Zelenka?"
She smiled politely. "Right this way, sir." She led him to a small table in an out-of-the-way corner of the cozy restaurant. "Enjoy your meal."
As she left, Carson looked at the man who was standing to greet him - and saw the photographer from the party. "Um, hi," he said, suddenly nervous.
"I don't think we were ever properly introduced, though not for lack of trying," Radek replied, his voice also accented, holding out his hand. "Radek Zelenka."
"Carson Beckett," Carson replied, shaking his hand. Sitting down, he opened his mouth to say something, then chuckled. "I'm sorry - you'll have to forgive me. This is just a little too surreal. I've been told by two different people in the past few days that I needed to meet you, and here we are."
Radek smiled and said, "The same thing happened to me as well. And were these people one of the faculty wives and David Parrish?"
Carson laughed at that. "Yes, they were. Think they're conspiring against us?"
"Either that, or for us. I'm not sure which yet. I don't know about you, but I don't have the slightest interest in dating right now. And I hope you don't mind that I forewent the flowers. It seemed a bit awkward."
"I'm completely okay with no flowers, as pretty as they can be. And I have little interest in dating as well," Carson replied as a waitress appeared to take their orders. They took a moment to look over their menus and placed their orders. "So," Carson said as the waitress left, "tell me about yourself."
Radek shrugged. "There's not much to tell. I was born and grew up in what is now the Czech Republic during a turbulent time. From an early age, I excelled in academics and, aside from a mandated service in the army, my whole life has been dedicated to learning. My main degree is in mechanical engineering, but I have a few others as well. For a few years, I was a mechanical engineer, but before too long, I felt myself being called to teach. So I've taught in a number of universities around the world. I also have a fondness for photography and indulge myself as much as possible - and I have a small studio. Last year I transitioned to it full-time and no longer teach." He blushed, obviously thinking about something, but instead said, "And what about you?"
Carson mirrored his shrug. "I was born and raised in Scotland into a large family. Like you, I've been drawn to academics - but for me it's genetics. I teach at the university as well, and do my own research. I have a roommate whom you probably know - Rodney McKay."
Radek nodded and took a sip of his wine. "Yes, he is hard to miss. His personality is rather larger than life."
"That's one way of putting it," Carson said with a smile.
"I was under the impression that the two of you were together," Radek admitted.
Carson shook his head. "Our relationship is strictly platonic - always has been. But since it seems like I'm the only one that can tolerate him for more than five minutes and we live together - people make assumptions. And he's honestly not that bad, once you get past the prickly exterior."
Radek bobbed his head. "I had a sneaking suspicion. My office was two doors down from his and I've both heard him ranting and raving at students and fellow faculty for their stupidity in one breath and in the next taking pains to make sure a student understands a difficult concept. He's an interesting mixture. But I don't want to talk about Rodney when we're supposed to be on a date."
"Sounds like a fine plan to me," Carson agreed. "Not that, you know, there's supposed to be any pressure or anything. I'm not sure what David said to you, but -"
"Don't worry. David and his expectations can jump out a window. I said yes because I was interested in you and I was afraid I'd scared you off."
"You scare me off? I was the one staring at you all evening."
"Then maybe we're even. Your pictures turned out well," he said, handing over a manila envelope. "You're a very good subject. I brought copies, if you'd like them."
Out of curiosity, Carson took the envelope and pulled out the pictures. There were three or four - all candids except for the one with David - and they were all good. "These are lovely," he said. "You obviously have talent." He blushed. "Well, obviously, if you have a studio." Putting the pictures away as their food was set in front of them, he asked, "So what sort of photography do you specialize in?"
"Boudoir photography. Though, I also do the more standard family photos, special occasions, etcetera."
"Boudoir," Carson repeated thoughtfully, drawing the word out, trying to remember the meaning.
"You know, intimate photography, such as a woman might give her husband," Radek supplied. "It's always very tasteful."
"Oh," Carson replied. "Oh. I hadn't realized there really was such a need in your line of work. Considering how you always hear of the do-it-yourself jobs."
Radek laughed, almost choking on his ziti. "No, you always hear of people's stupidity. My specialty isn't quite so vulgar. And, considering we're in San Francisco, we have a fair amount of men doing it for their partners as well." He looked at Carson speculatively. "I don't think I could entice you to pose for me? I need to make up some new brochures and I think you would be perfect. You'll be compensated, of course."
Carson laughed, not sure if he should be shocked or flattered. "I'd never thought I'd be talking about boudoir photography on a date - let alone being propositioned for it."
Radek blushed. "I'm sorry. It's such a normal part of my life that I forget it's not the same for everyone." He looked at Carson sheepishly. "I hope I'm not messing this up beyond all hope of redemption."
"Not yet," Carson conceded. "It's just... odd. Can I say I'll consider it?"
"Of course. Now that I've made you uncomfortable, please accept my humblest apologies and feel free to do the same to me."
"I wouldn't know how," Carson replied. "But your apology is accepted. And I wouldn't say you made me uncomfortable - it's just unusual." He gave Radek a hopeful smile. "If nothing else, it'll make the date memorable."
"Shall we include it in our reports to David, do you think, or should we leave it out?"
"I think we should leave it out," Carson said. "It might give him ideas for Evan."
"He's already spoken to me about it," Radek replied. "And they want to do it together."
Carson's eyebrows shot up. "That's, well - that's interesting. Is it unusual? For couples?"
"It is a smaller percentage, yes. But it does happen from time to time. I think it's a bonding experience for the couples." Radek smiled self-deprecatingly. "And now I think we should talk about something else. As interesting as this is for a first date subject, I didn't mean to monopolize the conversation. Since my talk of work didn't send you running off screaming, I was hoping there might still be a chance I could entice you to a second date."
"And what makes you so sure that there will be a second date?" Carson asked with a small smile, feeling himself relax a bit. Radek's proposition certainly had been unusual, but he had done it so innocuously Carson couldn't find it in himself to get flustered over it.
"I may be a realist, but I also tend to be an optimist."
Carson winced at that. "About that - I'm going to be really busy for the next few weeks with the end of the semester and finishing up some experiments before the end of the year."
"There's no rush," Radek replied with a casual shrug. "And I understand - the holiday photography season is very busy. And at least now the idea has been thrown into the ring and we can stop worrying about whether or not to mention it. You know I'm definitely interested and I know that you're open to the possibility - pending schedule issues."
Sheepishly, Carson said, "Well, I don't know of how much interest I'll be. There's really not much that I can think would be fascinating to tell you. My days tend to be taken over by classes, experiments, and trying to keep Rodney from killing someone. And I haven't travelled much - mostly around Scotland, and a few other parts of the United Kingdom, as well as around Colorado Springs - which is where Rodney and I lived before we moved out here, and then I've done some sight-seeing around here, but not much. It seems like you've got more stories than I do and I wouldn't say I minded hearing them."
Radek colored slightly. "I wouldn't know about that. Nomadic life? Yes. Interesting life - I wouldn't necessarily know about that. Usually the customers that come into my shop are more interesting than my own adventures."
Carson laughed. "We're a right pair, aren't we? Each thinking we're the dullest person on the planet. I think if my mother were here, she would knock our heads together and tell us to pick something to talk about - even something as boring as the weather."
"My sister would say the same," Radek replied with a knowing smile. "So, you first. Tell me how you met Rodney."
Radek hesitated when they arrived back at Carson's car. "Oh, I should give you my number so you can call me if you find half an hour or so in your schedule for me." He patted his pockets and found a copy of his card. He also produced a pen and on the back wrote his home number and email. "Only use the number on the front if you want to get twenty questions from my helper. Laura means well, but she tends to be a bit... protective at times."
Carson chuckled and took the card. "I know what you mean. Rodney can be the same way." He pulled the receipt from that day's lunch out of his pocket and wrote his information on the back of it. Handing it over, he said, "And there's mine. So you can let me know what your schedule's like as well."
"Wonderful," Radek said, folding it up and putting it in his pocket. "Then I guess this is good night."
"It would seem so," Carson agreed. "Unless you want to do after-dinner drinks/"
"It's a school night," Radek replied wistfully, and they both laughed. "I think it would be best if we leave tonight on a good note."
"Sounds like a plan." Carson hesitated. The night had gone way beyond anything he had expected and he wasn't sure how to end it. Should he offer his hand? It seemed too formal. But a kiss - or even a hug - seemed a little too intimate for someone he'd met twice and known officially for only a few hours.
Picking up on his hesitation, Radek said in amusement, "Ah, the eternal dilemma - how to end a date. How about this?" He took Carson's hand in his, and kissed the back of it. "Thank you for a wonderful evening and I hope I'll be able to repay you for it in the near future."
Carson nodded, his cheeks dimpling. "Good night, Radek."
"Good night, Carson." And with that, Radek headed off to his car. Carson watched him go, his eyes unable to leave the other man, surprised at the sudden flare of desire that had sparked inside when Radek had kissed his hand.
God, he needed to get laid.
"So, how was it?" Rodney asked as soon as Carson opened the door, turning around from where he was sitting on the couch.
"It was great," Carson replied, joining Rodney.
"Are you going to see him again? Will we need to figure out a system in case you want to be here alone with him?"
Carson laughed. "The option is open to seeing each other again. We have a house, Rodney. I think that it'll be safe for you to come home as long as I don't forget myself and decide the couch is a good place to take things to the next level."
"Oh, okay. You're absolutely right," Rodney said, looking like he hadn't thought about that. "Well, I'm glad you had a good time. It's just that, you know, I worry about you. I want you to be happy and just because I can be anti-social and I know I'm lacking certain social skills, even though I know I've gotten better with you around, I don't want you to think that you have to be my keeper or something."
"Och, I don't think that," Carson replied. "Needing someone to watch your tongue in public, maybe, but I think you don't need to worry otherwise. And believe me, I'm sure that if I can find someone, there's got to be someone out there who'd be willing to take you on."
"Now you're just being patronizing."
Carson rolled his eyes and stood. "I'm going to get a shower."
Standing under the hot water a few minutes later, he sighed. The date had gone much better than expected and he did want to see Radek again. He had forgotten how enjoyable it could be to spend time with someone else that wasn't Rodney. And Radek - Radek definitely pushed all of Carson's buttons. Slowly letting out another deep breath, Carson closed his eyes and leaned back against the shower wall, letting a hand slide down to his increasingly interested cock. Nothing would probably come of it, but it would be nice to fantasize about something new - like a certain Czech expatriate.
An email caught his eye the next morning. Clicking on it, Carson smiled when he read, Carson - Thank you for a wonderful evening. I hope I didn't scare you off with my proposition and I hope we can see each other again soon. Radek. P.S. If you are actually interested in my offer, I'd be very lucky to have you. Please think about it and let me know - you'd be well-compensated and not taken advantage of. I'm sorry if this seems too forward, since we hardly know each other. Radek
Carson laughed and replied, Radek - I had a wonderful evening as well. I'll let you know about my schedule in the next few days. And I'll have to think about your offer - I may be a Scotsman, but I do still have a bit of British sensibility. Carson
After that, dating took a backseat to Carson's workload and he, yet again, wondered why people thought teachers had it easy. Summers off aside, the rest of the year was just as crazy as any other job - especially when you're a college professor trying to deal with students who don't feel any obligation to actually do any work or even show up to class and then are surprised when they're failed. He had several students in his office every afternoon and evening. Some he didn't mind - they were actually there for work and were actually trying. The others were sob story after sob story - and in some cases yelling and intimidation - about why they shouldn't be failed out of the class. Carson had no sympathy for them.
One bright spot in all of it was listening to Rodney's rants when he got home, seeing as how he was dealing with the same thing and he didn't feel any compunction to conform to society's niceties and they gave Carson a therapeutic outlet for his own frustrations.
The other bright area was emailing back and forth with Radek. The emails weren't any great literary prose - more often than not, they were just little missives - inquiring after Carson's classes, amusing observations about the world and Radek's clients, random jokes, and, it seemed, any other thought that passed through Radek's head that he thought fit to share. Those definitely brightened Carson's day and he did his best to reciprocate. The fact that Radek kept replying felt like an accomplishment and made Carson smile every time he saw another email. And they were definitely making him look forward to seeing Radek again. He just hoped that this wouldn't lead to more heartbreak.
But the few moments Carson was able to grab away from class work invariably ended up being taken up by necessary chores or he wound up locking himself away from other people - not wanting to put up with anyone else's crap.
The moment he turned in his final grades, Carson breathed a sigh of relief. The fall semester was finally over and he could relax for a few weeks before classes resumed again. He locked up his office and headed out to his car, pulling Radek's card out of his wallet. Dialing the number on the back, he found himself smiling while he listened to it ring.
He responded to Radek's warm hello with, "So, I'm finished for the semester. Feel like celebrating?"
"Waited until the last minute, did we?" Radek asked with a chuckle.
"Only because I continually allow students to get away with turning things in at the very last possible second."
"I would love to see you again, but I'm swamped this evening. How about tomorrow?" Carson was about to reply when he continued, "Actually, scratch that. How about this - why don't you come to the studio tonight? I have a weak spot for showing it off to people. You can meet my assistant and let her check you out and then we can go get coffee or something. Does that sound like an appropriate second date?"
"Aye, it sounds appropriate enough to me," Carson agreed. Looking at the address on the front of the card, he said, "I know where this is - I should be there in about fifteen minutes."
"Sounds good. Can't wait to see you," Radek replied.
Carson knew his smile had turned a bit goofy as he closed his phone and pocketed it, but he didn't really care. He was on his way to a second date with a man he'd been flirting with for the past three weeks. Who was still interested in him. Part of his brain wanted to complain that it was just because Radek wanted him to pose for him, but he knew it wasn't true. Aside from the first email, it hadn't been mentioned and Carson got the impression that Radek wouldn't go to all this trouble to woo him into doing it when he could easily get a dozen willing men at the drop of a hat.
He found a parking spot a few doors down from the studio and quickly pulled in, grateful for his luck. He practically bounded up to the studio and stopped himself at the door to take a deep breath and smooth down his shirt before going in.
"Hi, can I help you?" a petite strawberry-blonde woman asked him from behind a desk.
"Hi, I -"
"Carson!" Radek called warmly, coming out from the back. He hugged Carson and kissed him on the cheek. "It's great to see you again."
Carson blushed. "You too."
"Ooh, so this is Carson," the woman said. Holding out her hand, she said, "Laura Cadman."
"Pleased to meet you," Carson replied, shaking her hand. "I hope he didn't paint too unflattering a portrait of me."
"Not hardly," Laura replied, grinning. "He's been walking on air since your blind date. And I thought the pictures he took of you were of just some random guy and the date was a whole ruse to get me off his back about dating."
"She's been pushing me to do it for a long time," Radek confided. "Even though I keep telling her it won't work." He glared at her on the last bit, but Carson could see there was no real malice behind any of it.
"But I'm glad to see that you really are real and that he's not lying because I didn't want to have to kick his ass," Laura said.
Radek shook his head at her, but his eyes were laughing. Turning to Carson, he said, "Give me a few more minutes and I'll be ready to go."
"Take your time," Carson replied. "I'm not in any rush. In fact, it's great to not be on a deadline for the first time in forever."
"You may not be in a rush, but I am," Radek said, heading towards the back. "I'd like to get you out of here in one piece. Let me just finish cleaning up. Oh! Where are my manners? I promised you a tour. Come on back."
Laura raised an eyebrow at Carson and gave him a little leer, but didn't say anything, as Carson joined Radek. Going into the back, Radek took him into what looked like a regular portrait studio.
Sensing what Carson was thinking, Radek said, "It's not what you expected, I see. I told you I do regular photography as well. What you're looking for is through the door." He gestured with his chin as he packed up his camera and shut off the other equipment.
"Can I -? Can I look?" Carson asked, curiosity getting the better of him.
"Of course," Radek replied. "And don't feel pressured to accept my offer. It was a passing whim and I won't be put out or change the way I feel about you. I can easily enough get others to model for me."
Carson laughed and, at Radek's questioning look, said, "I was thinking that on the way over." Opening the door, Carson walked in and was surprised to find what looked to be a normal bedroom, made up in warm colors and a comfortable looking bed.
Radek followed him, stopping in the doorway. "It's not glamorous, but it feeds into people's expectations, as well as puts them at ease. And I'm glad to see we're on the same page then," Radek replied with a warm smile. Glancing toward the doorway to the outer studio, he asked, "May I kiss you?"
"What?" Carson asked in surprise.
Quickly backpedaling, Radek said, "Sorry - that was presumptuous of me. Forget I asked."
"No, no. I was just surprised," Carson replied. "It's been a long time since anyone's shown a real interest in me."
"Which I find surprising."
"I know a lot of it's my own fault - I charm and flirt, but for a long time I've kept people at arm's length because I tend to enjoy the chase, but haven't found anyone I really want to seriously go after - for a lot of reasons."
"And what about me?" Radek asked lightly, though Carson could see him starting to close off.
"Except for you," Carson said. He closed the distance between them. He gently cupped Radek's face and kissed him softly - more a hint of a promise than a real kiss. "I think I could enjoy chasing you."
"Good," Radek replied, his smile warming again. "Because I've enjoyed this chase so far. So - about that coffee?"
"Sounds good," Carson replied, but didn't move, feeling the air charge between them.
"Great," Radek replied grinning, his voice barely above a whisper.
Carson leaned in and kissed Radek again - this time claiming Radek's mouth and pressing him against the door jam. Radek's mouth opened beneath his and he moaned softly into Carson's mouth. It had been a long time and Carson enjoyed plundering Radek's mouth with his tongue - tasting coffee and mint and something that could only be described as Radek. Radek moaned again and caressed Carson's tongue with his own.
Carson quickly pulled away, both of them breathing heavy.
"If you apologize, I'm going to have to hit you," Radek said, adjusting his glasses.
"No, no apologies," Carson said. "I just - If I'd kept it up, we would've had to use that bed there."
Radek laughed and nodded. "Not the best option at the moment." Stowing the camera bag in a locker and turning out the lights, he said, "Let's get out of here."
Carson nodded mutely, the feeling of Radek's lips still burning his own. Unsure how they did it, he and Radek left without too many comments from Laura, though he could see that she was enjoying watching them. He hoped she hadn't heard too much.
Outside, Carson asked, "So where do you want to go?"
"There's a diner up the street we could go too. Coffee's good and so is the pie. There's also a Starbucks and a local coffee shop."
"I think I'm feeling the diner," Carson said. "Coffee and pie sounds like a good plan."
"And not curl up together on a public couch in front of the fireplace?" Radek teased.
"I'd rather not have to call Rodney to bail me out of jail for a public lewdness charge," Carson replied.
"Good call. No one would let us live that down," Radek said. "Where did you park?" Carson pointed and Radek nodded. "It should be fine there. The diner's not far."
They walked down to the diner, the bright lights and pastel decor making them blink as they entered, and slid into a booth. A waitress quickly came and filled their coffee mugs and took their orders.
"So, how have you been?" Radek asked.
Carson laughed. "You think to ask that now?"
"Well, I really do want to know. And it's either that or I jump you right now. I've been thinking since our date and I'd seriously like to do this. With you. I can't stop thinking about you and all those little emails only made the desire stronger. If you think I'm going too fast, considering we hardly know each other - I totally understand. And I'm not usually this forward either. I've been accused more than once of moving at a snail's pace, or getting lost in my work, or any number of other things. And I can't say that won't happen this time, but -"
Carson put a hand onto of Radek's to stop him and gently squeezed it. "It's okay. I think I'd like 'to do this' too - whatever that might entail. You've definitely been the bright spot in my days lately and if I feel that way about a two sentence email from you or a silly joke, then I'd like to see what it would be like if we were actually trying."
Radek grinned and Carson felt like everything had just gotten a little brighter. The waitress brought their slices of pie and Carson pulled away so they could eat. Radek looked a little crestfallen at the loss of contact. They ate quietly, sharing glances and smiles as they did. When Radek held out a forkful of blueberry pie, Carson obediently accepted it with a smile.
"That's good," he said, offering Radek a bite of cherry pie. Radek ate it slowly, with a lick of his lips that went to Carson's groin.
"So's that," Radek replied.
Out on the sidewalk, Radek grabbed Carson's hand. Carson smiled at him and entwined their fingers. Walking back to the studio that way felt good - natural. The silence between them was comfortable and Carson didn't feel the need to fill it with stories or questions or small talk and he liked that.
They passed the now dark studio and went to Carson's car. Leaning against the front passenger door, he said, "So... feel like coming back to my place? Since we've already had some coffee, I could offer you tea, or a drink."
"I'd love to," Radek replied, "but I think this would be a good moment to end the evening. Wouldn't want the chase to end early, would we?"
Carson chuckled. "No, I guess not. So I guess this is goodnight, then."
"I guess it is," Radek replied with a bob of his head.
Then he was in Carson's arms, pressing him against the car and kissing him as if their lives depended on it, his hands tangling in Carson's hair. Carson automatically wrapped one arm around Radek's back and reached down with the other to cup his ass. He kissed Radek back just as hungrily, tasting coffee and pie and what he now knew was Radek himself. The kiss sent shivers of pleasure down his spine and pooled in his groin and he could tell that Radek wasn't totally immune either.
Groaning, he broke off the kiss, but didn't let go of Radek. "And you expect me to drive after this?"
"I didn't say I was going to make things easy for you," Radek replied mischievously. "Besides, I wanted to make sure I gave you a proper goodnight kiss." He smiled and carefully smoothed out Carson's hair before placing his hands on Carson's chest. "If it's any consolation, I'd rather not do this either." There was a twinkle in his eye as he continued, "But I have a strict policy to not put out until at least the third date." He smoothed out Carson's shirt now. "But if I stay too much longer, I may have to break that rule."
Carson canted his hips slightly to press harder against Radek's. "And there's no way I can persuade you to do so, just once?"
Radek pursed his lips together and Carson could tell he was wavering. Carson hadn't wanted anything like he wanted this in a long time and he sensed Radek was feeling the same way. "Please, Radek," he said softly before leaning in and nipping at Radek's bottom lip.
Radek pulled back to look at Carson, but didn't pull away completely. "I.... Ach, co to sakra. Against my better judgment, okay." He stepped back and took Carson's hand in his, leading him into the apartment building next door. "I'll admit, having things work out this way was a stroke of luck," he said as they walked up to the third floor.
Radek shut the door behind them with one hand and pulled Carson to him with the other. He kissed Carson hungrily. Carson took control of the kiss and turned it into something slower and gentler, but still full of desire.
Radek pulled away, but Carson followed, stealing a couple more kisses before Radek put a hand on his chest, stopping him, a look of amusement in his eyes. "It would seem that regardless of what we say, our bodies have a very different agenda. Maybe we should just have sex and get it over with. Then our bodies won't be clamoring for it and we can take our time getting back to it."
"So you're saying you think our compatibility has all been because our bodies want to get laid?" Carson replied before laughing heartily. "That's the first time I've heard that line."
"Doesn't mean we have to," Radek replied softly, huskily. "It was just a suggestion."
"Aye, I'll admit, there have been a few times since we met that I've thought about being intimate with you. So, if we're both in agreement, then I think we should do it."
Radek laughed. "That sounds like a good, realistic answer. The bedroom's back here." He kissed Carson tenderly before taking his hand and leading him back.
"What? No making out on the couch like teenagers first?" Carson teased.
"We can save that for another time, when we're not in such a rush. I know that if we start out there tonight, then we're going to have sex on the couch and I'd rather do it in my perfectly good bed." Entering the bedroom, he said, "Especially since we're no longer teenagers."
It was Carson's turn to laugh. He cupped Radek's face and kissed him thoroughly, loving the taste of Radek's mouth. "Would you hate me if I said I just want to kiss you for a while?"
"Only if we don't get naked first," Radek replied, stepping back and kicking off his shoes. "I want to touch you."
Carson could only nod, suddenly wanting to feel Radek's hands all over his body and they quickly stripped. Carson fought the urge to blush and cover himself while Radek looked him over with a look of blatant lust, even though he knew he was doing the same to Radek. Radek broke the standoff by closing the distance between them and kissed Carson fiercely. Carson responded by placing his hands on Radek's hips and pulling him close, the slide of their cocks sending a fissure of pleasure through him.
Radek hummed happily and moved towards the bed, making Carson follow him. After setting his glasses aside, he fell back onto the bed, his half-hard member curving to the side as he pulled himself fully onto the bed and Carson could only stand there and drink in the sight of him, the desire he was feeling evident on his face. Radek grinned and crooked a finger. Carson smiled and crawled on top of him, leaning down to kiss Radek hungrily, having missed this so much. Radek arched against him, their dicks rubbing together, and began trailing his hands over Carson's back.
Carson, hungry for the taste of Radek's skin, kissed his way down Radek's throat and chest, drawing a gasp out of him when he latched onto a nipple and sucked it into a point. Radek's nails dug into his back when he did the same to the other nipple and Carson pressed his growing erection down against Radek's in counterpoint. Radek began panting as Carson continued his journey southward, dipping his tongue into Radek's belly-button, and nipping the skin just below it. He arched up again, his cock brushing Carson's chin, and Carson smiled, enjoying this.
He nuzzled Radek's balls first, loving their musky scent and the way it made Radek moan and tangle his hands in Carson's hair. He watched Radek's face as he slowly licked up the underside of Radek's shaft and took the head into his mouth, rewarded with Radek's eyes fluttering closed and a sigh escaping his lips. Carson slowly took more of Radek's erection into his mouth, loving the weight of it against his tongue and the salty bittersweet of his precome. Radek's shallow gasps were music to his ears while he sucked, licked, and nibbled - taking his time to tease Radek until his cock was throbbing and Radek was writhing beneath him, his grip on Carson's hair starting to hurt.
"Oh God," Radek gasped. "I can't - Carson, I - I can't - do prdele!"
He stiffened and came, and Carson easily swallowed, focusing his attention on the head of Radek's penis, drawing out his orgasm as long as possible. When Radek sagged back against the bed with a sigh, Carson licked his cock clean and released it before moving up the bed. He kissed Radek hard, loving how Radek kissed him back greedily.
"I want to fuck you," he said, pressing his straining erection against Radek's hip.
"Yes," Radek gasped. "Nightstand."
Carson opened the drawer and found a tube of lube and a box of condoms. "Pretty certain about us, were you?" he teased as he pulled out a condom and the lube.
"Hopeful," Radek replied. "At some point, anyway," he gasped as Carson pressed a lubed finger into his ass. "It's been a long time."
"We're not in any rush," Carson told him as he slowly finger-fucked him and soaked up Radek's moans and whimpers as he opened him up for his penis. The feel of Radek's tight ass around his finger went straight to Carson's groin and Carson bit his lip to help him stay focused.
When he finally added a third finger, he crooked his fingers and dragged them across Radek's prostate, making him whimper with need and buck off the bed, Radek's cock showing a renewed interest. After a long moment that left Radek gasping for air, his hands tangled in the sheets, Carson withdrew his fingers and Radek pouted. Carson grinned and kissed him, stroking Radek's cock a couple of times for good measure. He opened the condom, but Radek plucked it from his grasp before he could put it on.
"Let me," Radek said, sitting up and making Carson kneel back on his heels. He put a drop of lube on his fingers and slowly stroked Carson's shaft with it. Carson sharply breathed in, the sensation rippling through his erection putting him on edge. Radek slowly rolled the condom down Carson's straining length and Carson gritted his teeth to stay himself from fucking Radek's hand instead and getting it over with, he was so close. Then Radek grinned wolfishly and squeezed out a dollop of lube and stroked Carson's sheathed cock with it. Carson groaned, his hips instinctively fucking Radek's hand shallowly, the pressure helping to relieve some of the build-up inside of him. Radek laughed and leaned back on his elbows, and looked at Carson wantonly as he spread his legs.
Carson had to bite his bottom lip for a long moment to keep himself from coming right then before surging forward and, moving Radek's legs high up on his hips, pressed into him in one long thrust. They both moaned together and Radek crushed his mouth against Carson's as he wrapped his arms around Carson and pressed him close.
Carson wanted to take it slow, but he was too far gone to do anything other than bury his face in the crook of Radek's neck and thrust into him hard and fast, his grunts soaked up by Radek's skin. Thankfully, Radek didn't seem to mind, considering how his ass was milking Carson's erection and his fingers were digging into Carson's back, urging him on, as he babbled a litany of Czech. After an entirely too short time, Carson stiffened and came, gasping as his orgasm crashed over him in waves. He was hazily aware of Radek's ass clamping around him and Radek's come splattering their stomachs a second later.
Carson collapsed onto Radek with a groan and moved to pull out, but Radek's legs tightening around his waist stopped him. "Mmm," Radek said lazily. "Not yet, please? I like the feel of you inside of me."
Carson nodded and roslled them onto their sides so he wouldn't crush Radek. "That was -" He tried to search for the right word, but his thoughts eluded him.
"I would have to agree," Radek replied with a smile before kissing him. They kissed softly and slowly until Carson's softened dick slipped out of Radek on its own. Radek whimpered into Carson's mouth and pouted. "We'll have to do something about that," he said against Carson's mouth.
"In a bit," Carson murmured between kisses.
Radek made a consenting noise in the back of his throat as Carson nipped along his throat. "And I rescind my desire for you to pose. There is no way I am letting anyone else have any part of this."
Carson chuckled against Radek's throat. That was perfectly all right by him.
Author: sam_gamgee
Recipient: padfootthegrim
Pairing: Beckett/Zelenka
Rating: NC-17
Disclaimer: Sadly, I do not own them.
Author's Notes: Many thanks to squeakyoflight for being an awesome beta!
Summary: Carson gets some unexpected holiday cheer.
---
"Please, Carson, I really need this," Rodney pleaded. "You know I wouldn't be asking if it wasn't important."
"Yes, but your department's holiday party? They already think we're a couple," Carson asked doubtfully.
"Oh, please," Rodney huffed. "You could show up naked and people would love you. And you know they don't really care what we are or aren't doing - it's just something for them to talk about. And I don't need to be there all night - just for a couple of hours. Please, Carson," he begged. "It's my job we're talking about!"
Carson sighed. "And you should've thought of that before you told your boss off. I'm tired of having to help you smooth things over, Rodney."
"I'll pay your part of the rent for the next two months," Rodney begged.
"Three months," Carson bargained.
Rodney looked like he was about to argue, then said, "Done. It's Friday night and I know you're free because I checked your calendar."
"Rodney!" Carson said in exasperation, wondering, yet again, what he saw in his roommate and best friend.
Friday night came, and Carson got ready for the party with a sigh. Regardless of the annoyance Carson had felt at Rodney's assumptions, he really did care for the other man. They had an odd relationship - in that, on the surface they were complete opposites, but somehow they got along well and managed to balance each other out. And they still thought it surprising when other people were amazed to find they weren't together romantically.
And Carson hadn't regretted the decision he'd made a little over a year and a half ago when out of the blue, Rodney asked him to move to San Francisco with him, saying he'd had enough of Colorado Springs and wanted a fresh start somewhere else. Carson, feeling trapped himself, had agreed - thinking a change of scenery would help. It hadn't helped as much as he'd hoped, but it had given him a better perspective on things, and that was something at least.
As soon as they entered one of the university's reception rooms, Rodney was pulled away almost immediately. Carson sighed, used to this by now - Rodney would be busy for the next hour and a half at least, making up to his boss by schmoozing with wealthy alumni and getting them to donate to the department. Meanwhile, Carson would fend for himself against the women in attendance. Thankfully, most of them knew him by now and were older and married so he didn't have to worry about a little harmless flirting. As he expected, Carson was snapped up a moment after Rodney by one of those very wives.
"Have you met Radek yet?" she asked him, drawing Carson over to a small knot of women. At Carson's shake of his head, she said, "Oh, he is such a dear. I think the two of you would get along famously. He was a professor, though he's recently taken up photography - but I think it may be more of a hobby for him. Look who it is, ladies."
Carson chatted with the women for a while before excusing himself to get a drink. As he approached the refreshment table, a vaguely familiar looking man snapped a picture of him. Before Carson could say anything to him, however, one of the faculty members came between them and pulled the stranger aside to take some pictures. Carson watched him go, intrigued as the Physics Department had never hired a photographer before for any of their parties. And while he couldn't call the other man traditionally attractive, there was something about him that drew Carson's attention.
Carson poured himself a cup of punch and took a sip, but before he could really get started in his self-pity over not having anyone for yet another holiday season, David Parrish joined him.
"Still no luck on the Rodney front?" David asked.
"Never was, never will be, don't care either way," Carson replied. It was a little joke of theirs and Carson smiled. "How are you, David?" he asked, shaking the other man's hand.
"Good, good," David replied. "Evan and I are looking into adopting. So if Rodney hasn't suddenly caught your eye, who has?" Adopting a stuffy English accent, he asked, "Old Mrs. Fitzwilliam, perhaps? A doting dowager looking for a little fun in her twilight years? Ooh, or perhaps a mysterious stranger?"
"I neither admit nor deny anything other than Mrs. Fitzwilliam has nothing to do with it," Carson replied before taking another sip of punch. "But congratulations to you and Evan - the two of you are going to make great fathers. Where is your other half, by the way?"
"Home with a cold. I wasn't even going to come tonight, but I had to get out for a while - we men make bad patients."
Carson laughed. "That's a fair assessment. When I was still practicing, I can't tell you how many men were there mainly because their wives/girlfriends/whoever had dragged them in."
Carson and David chatted for a few more minutes and Carson found himself following the mysterious photographer around the room with his eyes.
Just as David was about to leave, the photographer was at their side. "Would you like your picture together?" he asked.
"Sure, why not?" David asked, throwing his arm around Carson's shoulders. Carson automatically put an arm around David's waist.
The photographer snapped the picture and looked at it on the screen. "Good," he said with a nod.
Pulling away, David said, "I'll see you later, Carson," and asked the photographer, "Can I talk to you for a few minutes?"
"Have a good night," Carson replied as David and the photographer walked away together and Rodney joined him. "Is your job safe?" he asked Rodney. "Or shall I actually start worrying?"
"It's safe," Rodney replied with a nod. "Feel like getting out of here?"
"Sure. Any idea who the photographer is?"
"Somebody in the department," Rodney replied casually. "I think."
"Do you even try to remember people's names anymore?" Carson asked as they exited the building.
"Only if they're important - or monumentally stupid."
Carson shook his head in amusement. "It's a wonder how we don't kill each other."
Monday morning, Carson distractedly answered his office phone, "Dr. Carson Beckett, Genetics. How may I help you?"
"Hey, it's David. Don't hate me."
"Conversations that start that way rarely end well," Carson replied, putting his pen down and leaning back in his chair.
"I set you up on a blind date," David said and Carson could hear him wincing over the phone. "I think the guy would be right up your alley - smart, dry sense of humor, and good-looking but not a pretty boy."
"I could be interested," Carson replied. It had been ages since he'd been on a date, and even longer since he'd been in a relationship.
"That's what I was thinking. Now here's the part where I'm hoping you won't hate me. How about tonight?"
Carson sighed. "I'm proctoring a make-up exam tonight."
"Hmm. It seemed like tonight was the only night he'd be free for a while. What's your schedule like otherwise?"
"Eh. If I had enough advance notice, I could be flexible. I've got a class with papers due in a couple days and another two with tests soon after, so I'm going to be up in my eyeballs with things to grade for a while. Then there'll be a brief respite with a lot of office hours and tutoring for finals."
"Okay, I'm going to talk to him and get back to you because I think the two of you would be great for each other."
"I hope you're right, David," Carson replied. "But thank you for thinking of me. I'll talk to you later."
He hung up the phone and rubbed his hands over his face. It had been ages since he'd dated - or even thought about dating - and his last long-term relationship hadn't ended well. He hadn't sworn off love, exactly, but it had quickly dropped on his list of priorities to a point that he barely thought about unless it was the holiday season, and even then it was more of a niggling in the back of his mind that it might be nice to have someone to share them with.
But now, his curiosity was piqued. He'd never told his friends and co-workers he didn't want to be set up, or try to dissuade them if they mentioned they knew someone who'd be compatible, but he never really followed through with the information they'd give him. And, for the most part, they hadn't tried either - probably figuring he had no trouble finding his own dates - which he didn't, if he actually wanted to look. The fact that David was actually going to the trouble to set him up with an actual date with another guy made him curious.
He wondered if it would be bad etiquette to call David back and demand the other guy's information so he could call him himself and arrange a meeting between them. Then he decided that it could be fun to let this run its natural course - whatever that may be. He blew out a breath and went back to grading papers.
That evening, Carson's mind was still going over the idea of a blind date as he absently watched his student take the make-up exam. As he quickly finished grading the test for the student, Carson's cell phone rang. Carson quickly wrote the grade on the top of the test and circled it with a flourish and handed it back to the student, who smiled and left. Flipping his phone open, he said, "Hello?"
"Hey," David replied. "So, how's tomorrow night? He's really anxious to meet you."
Carson quickly went over his schedule in his head. "I think tomorrow night could work. And what did you tell him about me?"
"Oh, the usual - that you've got a big dick and that you're great in bed."
Carson rolled his eyes and dryly replied, "You're such a great friend."
"I know," David replied brightly. "Seriously - I just told him that you were a great guy with a sense of humor and that you weren't looking for anything serious, just someone to have some fun with. And if it developed into something more, then it did and if it didn't, it didn't. So, tomorrow night?"
"Tomorrow night will work." Carson entered the grade into his grade book.
"Great. He'll meet you at the Italian place just off campus at seven. I told him to bring flowers."
"I'm not a girl, David."
"No, but I'm a botanist and a romantic. His name's Radek Zelenka. Evan's making me get off the phone now. Something about blue balls not being good for our relationship. Which, I don't even know what he's complaining about because -" he moved the receiver and yelled at Evan, who Carson could hear grumbling in the background, "he's not getting any anyway!" Back to Carson, he said, "So, tomorrow - seven, Italian place by campus. Don't forget."
"If this goes horribly, I'm blaming you."
"Okay. I expect a full report afterwards. Oh, and I told Rodney." He hung up before Carson could get in the last word. Carson sighed and closed up his office.
Well... that was just peachy. Rodney would be like a dog with a bone on this. Out of all of Carson's friends, he had always been the most vocal about Carson getting back out into the dating game. He'd want to know every last detail about it so he could live vicariously through Carson. Carson had tried to get him to go out himself, but Rodney had always brushed it off by saying he was too busy or that he was no good at dating, which Carson actually believed, or that the whole thing was too messy and just a waste of time. Sometimes Carson was inclined to agree, but the romantic inside of him enjoyed the whole thing.
Unlike the warm weather that enveloped him as he walked to his car. Colorado Springs, at least, had had similar temperatures to Scotland, but here in San Francisco, it was down-right balmy. And it clashed with the fantasies he'd had as a child of enjoying the snow, cold weather, and holidays with a romantic partner.
Driving home, Carson remembered - his date had the same first name as someone the Physics 'wives club' knew. It was an odd enough name that he wondered if they were the same person, considering the ladies and David seemed to think they'd be a great match. Even if he wasn't the same guy, it was tempting to look him up online and see what sort of information he could find so he wasn't going into this completely blind. But at the same time, that was part of a blind date, wasn't it? It was only a day, not even. He could wait until dinner the next evening to find out. The suspense might even be fun.
"What did David lure you into?" Rodney asked from the dining room table.
"Nothing, why?" Carson asked, feigning ignorance and setting his bag down by the door.
"I know he did because he called here and told me that he set you up on a date."
"Oh," Carson said.
"'Oh'? That's all you can say - 'oh'?" Rodney replied indignantly.
"What do you want me to say, Rodney?" Carson asked, coming to stand in front of Rodney. "It's just a date, it's not like it's the end of the world or anything like that. I didn't even ask him to do it, he did it of his own volition. Besides, I don't even know the guy he's setting me up with." He paused and then teased, "Are you jealous?"
Rodney sputtered for a second before crossly replying, "No! No, I'm not! It's just that you never go on dates. This is very unlike you!"
"Maybe it is," Carson replied. "But maybe I felt like doing something a little 'unlike me'. I do the same things all the time and it's getting a little boring. And it's just a date - more than likely we'll have a nice time and then we'll go our separate ways. Then, afterwards, David will grill me over everything and wish he'd known that we weren't as compatible as he thought we would be, and that'll be the end of it. There's no harm in it. And I do think you're jealous. Maybe if you ask David nicely, he'll find someone for you too."
Rodney rolled his eyes and turned his attention back to where his laptop was sitting on the dining room table. "Relationships are a waste of time."
"That's because you're always surprised they take more work than you're expecting. But, for some people, it's worth it and I think I might be ready to test the waters and rejoin that group. The date's tomorrow night."
Rodney sputtered. "But - but - tomorrow night -"
"Is nothing out of the ordinary, Rodney," Carson said firmly. "If you're so focused on you and I going out to dinner, we can do it another night." Carson smirked. "Would you like me to ask my date if he's got someone for you? Or would you like me to call David on your behalf? I'm sure he wouldn't mind finding someone for you."
"You're evil," Rodney said, crossing his arms. "I'd never live it down between him and Evan."
"Maybe you need it - I'm sure there's got to be somebody out there for you who can get you out of your head from time to time and smooth out your rough edges. Though, if there is, I'd like to meet him and double check his sanity."
"Oh, ha ha. You're hysterical," Rodney glared as he went back to work.
"So, shall I bring you back a doggie bag?" Carson asked sweetly, wrapping his arms around Rodney's shoulders. "I know you'll be waiting up for me, wanting to know every little detail about the date."
"Go to hell," Rodney grumbled, not looking up from where he was typing furiously on his laptop.
"I love you too," Carson said warmly and placed a sloppy kiss on Rodney's temple before straightening and heading into the kitchen. "Is there anything edible in here? Or did you forget to go shopping again this weekend?"
"Oh, shit."
"That's what I thought," Carson muttered to himself with a sigh. Sometimes he wondered why they traded off on grocery shopping and he didn't just do it himself. Rodney was anal-retentive enough about other things that it would be a fair trade. And at least then Carson could be certain that the kitchen would be stocked with food that didn't look like it was part of a freaky science experiment. He was able to find a can of soup and some crackers that were still good and ate them while the kettle boiled. Done, he joined Rodney at the dining room table with a large mug of tea and a stack of papers to grade, surprised he was able to focus on something other than his impending date.
The next evening was a different story, however. Carson couldn't help watching the clock as he sat through empty office hours, surprised no students showed up with questions about their paper grades or upcoming final exams. What if the date was actually a disaster? Granted, he doubted David would pick someone who was a complete opposite, but people could be read wrong in certain situations and since Carson was finally beginning to want to venture back out into the dating world, he hoped this wasn't one of those times. After what happened last time, he didn't want to invest time and effort into it and find it was all for naught.
Finally, the clock freed him from his duty and he left. The Italian restaurant wasn't far from his building, so Carson just walked, arriving a minute or two after seven.
He went inside and gave the hostess a warm smile. "Hi," he said. "I'm supposed to be meeting someone here - Radek Zelenka?"
She smiled politely. "Right this way, sir." She led him to a small table in an out-of-the-way corner of the cozy restaurant. "Enjoy your meal."
As she left, Carson looked at the man who was standing to greet him - and saw the photographer from the party. "Um, hi," he said, suddenly nervous.
"I don't think we were ever properly introduced, though not for lack of trying," Radek replied, his voice also accented, holding out his hand. "Radek Zelenka."
"Carson Beckett," Carson replied, shaking his hand. Sitting down, he opened his mouth to say something, then chuckled. "I'm sorry - you'll have to forgive me. This is just a little too surreal. I've been told by two different people in the past few days that I needed to meet you, and here we are."
Radek smiled and said, "The same thing happened to me as well. And were these people one of the faculty wives and David Parrish?"
Carson laughed at that. "Yes, they were. Think they're conspiring against us?"
"Either that, or for us. I'm not sure which yet. I don't know about you, but I don't have the slightest interest in dating right now. And I hope you don't mind that I forewent the flowers. It seemed a bit awkward."
"I'm completely okay with no flowers, as pretty as they can be. And I have little interest in dating as well," Carson replied as a waitress appeared to take their orders. They took a moment to look over their menus and placed their orders. "So," Carson said as the waitress left, "tell me about yourself."
Radek shrugged. "There's not much to tell. I was born and grew up in what is now the Czech Republic during a turbulent time. From an early age, I excelled in academics and, aside from a mandated service in the army, my whole life has been dedicated to learning. My main degree is in mechanical engineering, but I have a few others as well. For a few years, I was a mechanical engineer, but before too long, I felt myself being called to teach. So I've taught in a number of universities around the world. I also have a fondness for photography and indulge myself as much as possible - and I have a small studio. Last year I transitioned to it full-time and no longer teach." He blushed, obviously thinking about something, but instead said, "And what about you?"
Carson mirrored his shrug. "I was born and raised in Scotland into a large family. Like you, I've been drawn to academics - but for me it's genetics. I teach at the university as well, and do my own research. I have a roommate whom you probably know - Rodney McKay."
Radek nodded and took a sip of his wine. "Yes, he is hard to miss. His personality is rather larger than life."
"That's one way of putting it," Carson said with a smile.
"I was under the impression that the two of you were together," Radek admitted.
Carson shook his head. "Our relationship is strictly platonic - always has been. But since it seems like I'm the only one that can tolerate him for more than five minutes and we live together - people make assumptions. And he's honestly not that bad, once you get past the prickly exterior."
Radek bobbed his head. "I had a sneaking suspicion. My office was two doors down from his and I've both heard him ranting and raving at students and fellow faculty for their stupidity in one breath and in the next taking pains to make sure a student understands a difficult concept. He's an interesting mixture. But I don't want to talk about Rodney when we're supposed to be on a date."
"Sounds like a fine plan to me," Carson agreed. "Not that, you know, there's supposed to be any pressure or anything. I'm not sure what David said to you, but -"
"Don't worry. David and his expectations can jump out a window. I said yes because I was interested in you and I was afraid I'd scared you off."
"You scare me off? I was the one staring at you all evening."
"Then maybe we're even. Your pictures turned out well," he said, handing over a manila envelope. "You're a very good subject. I brought copies, if you'd like them."
Out of curiosity, Carson took the envelope and pulled out the pictures. There were three or four - all candids except for the one with David - and they were all good. "These are lovely," he said. "You obviously have talent." He blushed. "Well, obviously, if you have a studio." Putting the pictures away as their food was set in front of them, he asked, "So what sort of photography do you specialize in?"
"Boudoir photography. Though, I also do the more standard family photos, special occasions, etcetera."
"Boudoir," Carson repeated thoughtfully, drawing the word out, trying to remember the meaning.
"You know, intimate photography, such as a woman might give her husband," Radek supplied. "It's always very tasteful."
"Oh," Carson replied. "Oh. I hadn't realized there really was such a need in your line of work. Considering how you always hear of the do-it-yourself jobs."
Radek laughed, almost choking on his ziti. "No, you always hear of people's stupidity. My specialty isn't quite so vulgar. And, considering we're in San Francisco, we have a fair amount of men doing it for their partners as well." He looked at Carson speculatively. "I don't think I could entice you to pose for me? I need to make up some new brochures and I think you would be perfect. You'll be compensated, of course."
Carson laughed, not sure if he should be shocked or flattered. "I'd never thought I'd be talking about boudoir photography on a date - let alone being propositioned for it."
Radek blushed. "I'm sorry. It's such a normal part of my life that I forget it's not the same for everyone." He looked at Carson sheepishly. "I hope I'm not messing this up beyond all hope of redemption."
"Not yet," Carson conceded. "It's just... odd. Can I say I'll consider it?"
"Of course. Now that I've made you uncomfortable, please accept my humblest apologies and feel free to do the same to me."
"I wouldn't know how," Carson replied. "But your apology is accepted. And I wouldn't say you made me uncomfortable - it's just unusual." He gave Radek a hopeful smile. "If nothing else, it'll make the date memorable."
"Shall we include it in our reports to David, do you think, or should we leave it out?"
"I think we should leave it out," Carson said. "It might give him ideas for Evan."
"He's already spoken to me about it," Radek replied. "And they want to do it together."
Carson's eyebrows shot up. "That's, well - that's interesting. Is it unusual? For couples?"
"It is a smaller percentage, yes. But it does happen from time to time. I think it's a bonding experience for the couples." Radek smiled self-deprecatingly. "And now I think we should talk about something else. As interesting as this is for a first date subject, I didn't mean to monopolize the conversation. Since my talk of work didn't send you running off screaming, I was hoping there might still be a chance I could entice you to a second date."
"And what makes you so sure that there will be a second date?" Carson asked with a small smile, feeling himself relax a bit. Radek's proposition certainly had been unusual, but he had done it so innocuously Carson couldn't find it in himself to get flustered over it.
"I may be a realist, but I also tend to be an optimist."
Carson winced at that. "About that - I'm going to be really busy for the next few weeks with the end of the semester and finishing up some experiments before the end of the year."
"There's no rush," Radek replied with a casual shrug. "And I understand - the holiday photography season is very busy. And at least now the idea has been thrown into the ring and we can stop worrying about whether or not to mention it. You know I'm definitely interested and I know that you're open to the possibility - pending schedule issues."
Sheepishly, Carson said, "Well, I don't know of how much interest I'll be. There's really not much that I can think would be fascinating to tell you. My days tend to be taken over by classes, experiments, and trying to keep Rodney from killing someone. And I haven't travelled much - mostly around Scotland, and a few other parts of the United Kingdom, as well as around Colorado Springs - which is where Rodney and I lived before we moved out here, and then I've done some sight-seeing around here, but not much. It seems like you've got more stories than I do and I wouldn't say I minded hearing them."
Radek colored slightly. "I wouldn't know about that. Nomadic life? Yes. Interesting life - I wouldn't necessarily know about that. Usually the customers that come into my shop are more interesting than my own adventures."
Carson laughed. "We're a right pair, aren't we? Each thinking we're the dullest person on the planet. I think if my mother were here, she would knock our heads together and tell us to pick something to talk about - even something as boring as the weather."
"My sister would say the same," Radek replied with a knowing smile. "So, you first. Tell me how you met Rodney."
Radek hesitated when they arrived back at Carson's car. "Oh, I should give you my number so you can call me if you find half an hour or so in your schedule for me." He patted his pockets and found a copy of his card. He also produced a pen and on the back wrote his home number and email. "Only use the number on the front if you want to get twenty questions from my helper. Laura means well, but she tends to be a bit... protective at times."
Carson chuckled and took the card. "I know what you mean. Rodney can be the same way." He pulled the receipt from that day's lunch out of his pocket and wrote his information on the back of it. Handing it over, he said, "And there's mine. So you can let me know what your schedule's like as well."
"Wonderful," Radek said, folding it up and putting it in his pocket. "Then I guess this is good night."
"It would seem so," Carson agreed. "Unless you want to do after-dinner drinks/"
"It's a school night," Radek replied wistfully, and they both laughed. "I think it would be best if we leave tonight on a good note."
"Sounds like a plan." Carson hesitated. The night had gone way beyond anything he had expected and he wasn't sure how to end it. Should he offer his hand? It seemed too formal. But a kiss - or even a hug - seemed a little too intimate for someone he'd met twice and known officially for only a few hours.
Picking up on his hesitation, Radek said in amusement, "Ah, the eternal dilemma - how to end a date. How about this?" He took Carson's hand in his, and kissed the back of it. "Thank you for a wonderful evening and I hope I'll be able to repay you for it in the near future."
Carson nodded, his cheeks dimpling. "Good night, Radek."
"Good night, Carson." And with that, Radek headed off to his car. Carson watched him go, his eyes unable to leave the other man, surprised at the sudden flare of desire that had sparked inside when Radek had kissed his hand.
God, he needed to get laid.
"So, how was it?" Rodney asked as soon as Carson opened the door, turning around from where he was sitting on the couch.
"It was great," Carson replied, joining Rodney.
"Are you going to see him again? Will we need to figure out a system in case you want to be here alone with him?"
Carson laughed. "The option is open to seeing each other again. We have a house, Rodney. I think that it'll be safe for you to come home as long as I don't forget myself and decide the couch is a good place to take things to the next level."
"Oh, okay. You're absolutely right," Rodney said, looking like he hadn't thought about that. "Well, I'm glad you had a good time. It's just that, you know, I worry about you. I want you to be happy and just because I can be anti-social and I know I'm lacking certain social skills, even though I know I've gotten better with you around, I don't want you to think that you have to be my keeper or something."
"Och, I don't think that," Carson replied. "Needing someone to watch your tongue in public, maybe, but I think you don't need to worry otherwise. And believe me, I'm sure that if I can find someone, there's got to be someone out there who'd be willing to take you on."
"Now you're just being patronizing."
Carson rolled his eyes and stood. "I'm going to get a shower."
Standing under the hot water a few minutes later, he sighed. The date had gone much better than expected and he did want to see Radek again. He had forgotten how enjoyable it could be to spend time with someone else that wasn't Rodney. And Radek - Radek definitely pushed all of Carson's buttons. Slowly letting out another deep breath, Carson closed his eyes and leaned back against the shower wall, letting a hand slide down to his increasingly interested cock. Nothing would probably come of it, but it would be nice to fantasize about something new - like a certain Czech expatriate.
An email caught his eye the next morning. Clicking on it, Carson smiled when he read, Carson - Thank you for a wonderful evening. I hope I didn't scare you off with my proposition and I hope we can see each other again soon. Radek. P.S. If you are actually interested in my offer, I'd be very lucky to have you. Please think about it and let me know - you'd be well-compensated and not taken advantage of. I'm sorry if this seems too forward, since we hardly know each other. Radek
Carson laughed and replied, Radek - I had a wonderful evening as well. I'll let you know about my schedule in the next few days. And I'll have to think about your offer - I may be a Scotsman, but I do still have a bit of British sensibility. Carson
After that, dating took a backseat to Carson's workload and he, yet again, wondered why people thought teachers had it easy. Summers off aside, the rest of the year was just as crazy as any other job - especially when you're a college professor trying to deal with students who don't feel any obligation to actually do any work or even show up to class and then are surprised when they're failed. He had several students in his office every afternoon and evening. Some he didn't mind - they were actually there for work and were actually trying. The others were sob story after sob story - and in some cases yelling and intimidation - about why they shouldn't be failed out of the class. Carson had no sympathy for them.
One bright spot in all of it was listening to Rodney's rants when he got home, seeing as how he was dealing with the same thing and he didn't feel any compunction to conform to society's niceties and they gave Carson a therapeutic outlet for his own frustrations.
The other bright area was emailing back and forth with Radek. The emails weren't any great literary prose - more often than not, they were just little missives - inquiring after Carson's classes, amusing observations about the world and Radek's clients, random jokes, and, it seemed, any other thought that passed through Radek's head that he thought fit to share. Those definitely brightened Carson's day and he did his best to reciprocate. The fact that Radek kept replying felt like an accomplishment and made Carson smile every time he saw another email. And they were definitely making him look forward to seeing Radek again. He just hoped that this wouldn't lead to more heartbreak.
But the few moments Carson was able to grab away from class work invariably ended up being taken up by necessary chores or he wound up locking himself away from other people - not wanting to put up with anyone else's crap.
The moment he turned in his final grades, Carson breathed a sigh of relief. The fall semester was finally over and he could relax for a few weeks before classes resumed again. He locked up his office and headed out to his car, pulling Radek's card out of his wallet. Dialing the number on the back, he found himself smiling while he listened to it ring.
He responded to Radek's warm hello with, "So, I'm finished for the semester. Feel like celebrating?"
"Waited until the last minute, did we?" Radek asked with a chuckle.
"Only because I continually allow students to get away with turning things in at the very last possible second."
"I would love to see you again, but I'm swamped this evening. How about tomorrow?" Carson was about to reply when he continued, "Actually, scratch that. How about this - why don't you come to the studio tonight? I have a weak spot for showing it off to people. You can meet my assistant and let her check you out and then we can go get coffee or something. Does that sound like an appropriate second date?"
"Aye, it sounds appropriate enough to me," Carson agreed. Looking at the address on the front of the card, he said, "I know where this is - I should be there in about fifteen minutes."
"Sounds good. Can't wait to see you," Radek replied.
Carson knew his smile had turned a bit goofy as he closed his phone and pocketed it, but he didn't really care. He was on his way to a second date with a man he'd been flirting with for the past three weeks. Who was still interested in him. Part of his brain wanted to complain that it was just because Radek wanted him to pose for him, but he knew it wasn't true. Aside from the first email, it hadn't been mentioned and Carson got the impression that Radek wouldn't go to all this trouble to woo him into doing it when he could easily get a dozen willing men at the drop of a hat.
He found a parking spot a few doors down from the studio and quickly pulled in, grateful for his luck. He practically bounded up to the studio and stopped himself at the door to take a deep breath and smooth down his shirt before going in.
"Hi, can I help you?" a petite strawberry-blonde woman asked him from behind a desk.
"Hi, I -"
"Carson!" Radek called warmly, coming out from the back. He hugged Carson and kissed him on the cheek. "It's great to see you again."
Carson blushed. "You too."
"Ooh, so this is Carson," the woman said. Holding out her hand, she said, "Laura Cadman."
"Pleased to meet you," Carson replied, shaking her hand. "I hope he didn't paint too unflattering a portrait of me."
"Not hardly," Laura replied, grinning. "He's been walking on air since your blind date. And I thought the pictures he took of you were of just some random guy and the date was a whole ruse to get me off his back about dating."
"She's been pushing me to do it for a long time," Radek confided. "Even though I keep telling her it won't work." He glared at her on the last bit, but Carson could see there was no real malice behind any of it.
"But I'm glad to see that you really are real and that he's not lying because I didn't want to have to kick his ass," Laura said.
Radek shook his head at her, but his eyes were laughing. Turning to Carson, he said, "Give me a few more minutes and I'll be ready to go."
"Take your time," Carson replied. "I'm not in any rush. In fact, it's great to not be on a deadline for the first time in forever."
"You may not be in a rush, but I am," Radek said, heading towards the back. "I'd like to get you out of here in one piece. Let me just finish cleaning up. Oh! Where are my manners? I promised you a tour. Come on back."
Laura raised an eyebrow at Carson and gave him a little leer, but didn't say anything, as Carson joined Radek. Going into the back, Radek took him into what looked like a regular portrait studio.
Sensing what Carson was thinking, Radek said, "It's not what you expected, I see. I told you I do regular photography as well. What you're looking for is through the door." He gestured with his chin as he packed up his camera and shut off the other equipment.
"Can I -? Can I look?" Carson asked, curiosity getting the better of him.
"Of course," Radek replied. "And don't feel pressured to accept my offer. It was a passing whim and I won't be put out or change the way I feel about you. I can easily enough get others to model for me."
Carson laughed and, at Radek's questioning look, said, "I was thinking that on the way over." Opening the door, Carson walked in and was surprised to find what looked to be a normal bedroom, made up in warm colors and a comfortable looking bed.
Radek followed him, stopping in the doorway. "It's not glamorous, but it feeds into people's expectations, as well as puts them at ease. And I'm glad to see we're on the same page then," Radek replied with a warm smile. Glancing toward the doorway to the outer studio, he asked, "May I kiss you?"
"What?" Carson asked in surprise.
Quickly backpedaling, Radek said, "Sorry - that was presumptuous of me. Forget I asked."
"No, no. I was just surprised," Carson replied. "It's been a long time since anyone's shown a real interest in me."
"Which I find surprising."
"I know a lot of it's my own fault - I charm and flirt, but for a long time I've kept people at arm's length because I tend to enjoy the chase, but haven't found anyone I really want to seriously go after - for a lot of reasons."
"And what about me?" Radek asked lightly, though Carson could see him starting to close off.
"Except for you," Carson said. He closed the distance between them. He gently cupped Radek's face and kissed him softly - more a hint of a promise than a real kiss. "I think I could enjoy chasing you."
"Good," Radek replied, his smile warming again. "Because I've enjoyed this chase so far. So - about that coffee?"
"Sounds good," Carson replied, but didn't move, feeling the air charge between them.
"Great," Radek replied grinning, his voice barely above a whisper.
Carson leaned in and kissed Radek again - this time claiming Radek's mouth and pressing him against the door jam. Radek's mouth opened beneath his and he moaned softly into Carson's mouth. It had been a long time and Carson enjoyed plundering Radek's mouth with his tongue - tasting coffee and mint and something that could only be described as Radek. Radek moaned again and caressed Carson's tongue with his own.
Carson quickly pulled away, both of them breathing heavy.
"If you apologize, I'm going to have to hit you," Radek said, adjusting his glasses.
"No, no apologies," Carson said. "I just - If I'd kept it up, we would've had to use that bed there."
Radek laughed and nodded. "Not the best option at the moment." Stowing the camera bag in a locker and turning out the lights, he said, "Let's get out of here."
Carson nodded mutely, the feeling of Radek's lips still burning his own. Unsure how they did it, he and Radek left without too many comments from Laura, though he could see that she was enjoying watching them. He hoped she hadn't heard too much.
Outside, Carson asked, "So where do you want to go?"
"There's a diner up the street we could go too. Coffee's good and so is the pie. There's also a Starbucks and a local coffee shop."
"I think I'm feeling the diner," Carson said. "Coffee and pie sounds like a good plan."
"And not curl up together on a public couch in front of the fireplace?" Radek teased.
"I'd rather not have to call Rodney to bail me out of jail for a public lewdness charge," Carson replied.
"Good call. No one would let us live that down," Radek said. "Where did you park?" Carson pointed and Radek nodded. "It should be fine there. The diner's not far."
They walked down to the diner, the bright lights and pastel decor making them blink as they entered, and slid into a booth. A waitress quickly came and filled their coffee mugs and took their orders.
"So, how have you been?" Radek asked.
Carson laughed. "You think to ask that now?"
"Well, I really do want to know. And it's either that or I jump you right now. I've been thinking since our date and I'd seriously like to do this. With you. I can't stop thinking about you and all those little emails only made the desire stronger. If you think I'm going too fast, considering we hardly know each other - I totally understand. And I'm not usually this forward either. I've been accused more than once of moving at a snail's pace, or getting lost in my work, or any number of other things. And I can't say that won't happen this time, but -"
Carson put a hand onto of Radek's to stop him and gently squeezed it. "It's okay. I think I'd like 'to do this' too - whatever that might entail. You've definitely been the bright spot in my days lately and if I feel that way about a two sentence email from you or a silly joke, then I'd like to see what it would be like if we were actually trying."
Radek grinned and Carson felt like everything had just gotten a little brighter. The waitress brought their slices of pie and Carson pulled away so they could eat. Radek looked a little crestfallen at the loss of contact. They ate quietly, sharing glances and smiles as they did. When Radek held out a forkful of blueberry pie, Carson obediently accepted it with a smile.
"That's good," he said, offering Radek a bite of cherry pie. Radek ate it slowly, with a lick of his lips that went to Carson's groin.
"So's that," Radek replied.
Out on the sidewalk, Radek grabbed Carson's hand. Carson smiled at him and entwined their fingers. Walking back to the studio that way felt good - natural. The silence between them was comfortable and Carson didn't feel the need to fill it with stories or questions or small talk and he liked that.
They passed the now dark studio and went to Carson's car. Leaning against the front passenger door, he said, "So... feel like coming back to my place? Since we've already had some coffee, I could offer you tea, or a drink."
"I'd love to," Radek replied, "but I think this would be a good moment to end the evening. Wouldn't want the chase to end early, would we?"
Carson chuckled. "No, I guess not. So I guess this is goodnight, then."
"I guess it is," Radek replied with a bob of his head.
Then he was in Carson's arms, pressing him against the car and kissing him as if their lives depended on it, his hands tangling in Carson's hair. Carson automatically wrapped one arm around Radek's back and reached down with the other to cup his ass. He kissed Radek back just as hungrily, tasting coffee and pie and what he now knew was Radek himself. The kiss sent shivers of pleasure down his spine and pooled in his groin and he could tell that Radek wasn't totally immune either.
Groaning, he broke off the kiss, but didn't let go of Radek. "And you expect me to drive after this?"
"I didn't say I was going to make things easy for you," Radek replied mischievously. "Besides, I wanted to make sure I gave you a proper goodnight kiss." He smiled and carefully smoothed out Carson's hair before placing his hands on Carson's chest. "If it's any consolation, I'd rather not do this either." There was a twinkle in his eye as he continued, "But I have a strict policy to not put out until at least the third date." He smoothed out Carson's shirt now. "But if I stay too much longer, I may have to break that rule."
Carson canted his hips slightly to press harder against Radek's. "And there's no way I can persuade you to do so, just once?"
Radek pursed his lips together and Carson could tell he was wavering. Carson hadn't wanted anything like he wanted this in a long time and he sensed Radek was feeling the same way. "Please, Radek," he said softly before leaning in and nipping at Radek's bottom lip.
Radek pulled back to look at Carson, but didn't pull away completely. "I.... Ach, co to sakra. Against my better judgment, okay." He stepped back and took Carson's hand in his, leading him into the apartment building next door. "I'll admit, having things work out this way was a stroke of luck," he said as they walked up to the third floor.
Radek shut the door behind them with one hand and pulled Carson to him with the other. He kissed Carson hungrily. Carson took control of the kiss and turned it into something slower and gentler, but still full of desire.
Radek pulled away, but Carson followed, stealing a couple more kisses before Radek put a hand on his chest, stopping him, a look of amusement in his eyes. "It would seem that regardless of what we say, our bodies have a very different agenda. Maybe we should just have sex and get it over with. Then our bodies won't be clamoring for it and we can take our time getting back to it."
"So you're saying you think our compatibility has all been because our bodies want to get laid?" Carson replied before laughing heartily. "That's the first time I've heard that line."
"Doesn't mean we have to," Radek replied softly, huskily. "It was just a suggestion."
"Aye, I'll admit, there have been a few times since we met that I've thought about being intimate with you. So, if we're both in agreement, then I think we should do it."
Radek laughed. "That sounds like a good, realistic answer. The bedroom's back here." He kissed Carson tenderly before taking his hand and leading him back.
"What? No making out on the couch like teenagers first?" Carson teased.
"We can save that for another time, when we're not in such a rush. I know that if we start out there tonight, then we're going to have sex on the couch and I'd rather do it in my perfectly good bed." Entering the bedroom, he said, "Especially since we're no longer teenagers."
It was Carson's turn to laugh. He cupped Radek's face and kissed him thoroughly, loving the taste of Radek's mouth. "Would you hate me if I said I just want to kiss you for a while?"
"Only if we don't get naked first," Radek replied, stepping back and kicking off his shoes. "I want to touch you."
Carson could only nod, suddenly wanting to feel Radek's hands all over his body and they quickly stripped. Carson fought the urge to blush and cover himself while Radek looked him over with a look of blatant lust, even though he knew he was doing the same to Radek. Radek broke the standoff by closing the distance between them and kissed Carson fiercely. Carson responded by placing his hands on Radek's hips and pulling him close, the slide of their cocks sending a fissure of pleasure through him.
Radek hummed happily and moved towards the bed, making Carson follow him. After setting his glasses aside, he fell back onto the bed, his half-hard member curving to the side as he pulled himself fully onto the bed and Carson could only stand there and drink in the sight of him, the desire he was feeling evident on his face. Radek grinned and crooked a finger. Carson smiled and crawled on top of him, leaning down to kiss Radek hungrily, having missed this so much. Radek arched against him, their dicks rubbing together, and began trailing his hands over Carson's back.
Carson, hungry for the taste of Radek's skin, kissed his way down Radek's throat and chest, drawing a gasp out of him when he latched onto a nipple and sucked it into a point. Radek's nails dug into his back when he did the same to the other nipple and Carson pressed his growing erection down against Radek's in counterpoint. Radek began panting as Carson continued his journey southward, dipping his tongue into Radek's belly-button, and nipping the skin just below it. He arched up again, his cock brushing Carson's chin, and Carson smiled, enjoying this.
He nuzzled Radek's balls first, loving their musky scent and the way it made Radek moan and tangle his hands in Carson's hair. He watched Radek's face as he slowly licked up the underside of Radek's shaft and took the head into his mouth, rewarded with Radek's eyes fluttering closed and a sigh escaping his lips. Carson slowly took more of Radek's erection into his mouth, loving the weight of it against his tongue and the salty bittersweet of his precome. Radek's shallow gasps were music to his ears while he sucked, licked, and nibbled - taking his time to tease Radek until his cock was throbbing and Radek was writhing beneath him, his grip on Carson's hair starting to hurt.
"Oh God," Radek gasped. "I can't - Carson, I - I can't - do prdele!"
He stiffened and came, and Carson easily swallowed, focusing his attention on the head of Radek's penis, drawing out his orgasm as long as possible. When Radek sagged back against the bed with a sigh, Carson licked his cock clean and released it before moving up the bed. He kissed Radek hard, loving how Radek kissed him back greedily.
"I want to fuck you," he said, pressing his straining erection against Radek's hip.
"Yes," Radek gasped. "Nightstand."
Carson opened the drawer and found a tube of lube and a box of condoms. "Pretty certain about us, were you?" he teased as he pulled out a condom and the lube.
"Hopeful," Radek replied. "At some point, anyway," he gasped as Carson pressed a lubed finger into his ass. "It's been a long time."
"We're not in any rush," Carson told him as he slowly finger-fucked him and soaked up Radek's moans and whimpers as he opened him up for his penis. The feel of Radek's tight ass around his finger went straight to Carson's groin and Carson bit his lip to help him stay focused.
When he finally added a third finger, he crooked his fingers and dragged them across Radek's prostate, making him whimper with need and buck off the bed, Radek's cock showing a renewed interest. After a long moment that left Radek gasping for air, his hands tangled in the sheets, Carson withdrew his fingers and Radek pouted. Carson grinned and kissed him, stroking Radek's cock a couple of times for good measure. He opened the condom, but Radek plucked it from his grasp before he could put it on.
"Let me," Radek said, sitting up and making Carson kneel back on his heels. He put a drop of lube on his fingers and slowly stroked Carson's shaft with it. Carson sharply breathed in, the sensation rippling through his erection putting him on edge. Radek slowly rolled the condom down Carson's straining length and Carson gritted his teeth to stay himself from fucking Radek's hand instead and getting it over with, he was so close. Then Radek grinned wolfishly and squeezed out a dollop of lube and stroked Carson's sheathed cock with it. Carson groaned, his hips instinctively fucking Radek's hand shallowly, the pressure helping to relieve some of the build-up inside of him. Radek laughed and leaned back on his elbows, and looked at Carson wantonly as he spread his legs.
Carson had to bite his bottom lip for a long moment to keep himself from coming right then before surging forward and, moving Radek's legs high up on his hips, pressed into him in one long thrust. They both moaned together and Radek crushed his mouth against Carson's as he wrapped his arms around Carson and pressed him close.
Carson wanted to take it slow, but he was too far gone to do anything other than bury his face in the crook of Radek's neck and thrust into him hard and fast, his grunts soaked up by Radek's skin. Thankfully, Radek didn't seem to mind, considering how his ass was milking Carson's erection and his fingers were digging into Carson's back, urging him on, as he babbled a litany of Czech. After an entirely too short time, Carson stiffened and came, gasping as his orgasm crashed over him in waves. He was hazily aware of Radek's ass clamping around him and Radek's come splattering their stomachs a second later.
Carson collapsed onto Radek with a groan and moved to pull out, but Radek's legs tightening around his waist stopped him. "Mmm," Radek said lazily. "Not yet, please? I like the feel of you inside of me."
Carson nodded and roslled them onto their sides so he wouldn't crush Radek. "That was -" He tried to search for the right word, but his thoughts eluded him.
"I would have to agree," Radek replied with a smile before kissing him. They kissed softly and slowly until Carson's softened dick slipped out of Radek on its own. Radek whimpered into Carson's mouth and pouted. "We'll have to do something about that," he said against Carson's mouth.
"In a bit," Carson murmured between kisses.
Radek made a consenting noise in the back of his throat as Carson nipped along his throat. "And I rescind my desire for you to pose. There is no way I am letting anyone else have any part of this."
Carson chuckled against Radek's throat. That was perfectly all right by him.