Amnesia, Daniel/Alexander, NC-17 Part Three of Three
Title: Ladder to the Stars
Pairing: Daniel/Alexander
Summary: AU: Daniel is a rentboy who is given to Alexander as collateral for a business deal.
Warnings: Dub-con, prostitution, explicit sexual content.
Author: blacktofade
Words: 7,511 / 26,418
Rating: NC-17
A/N: Alexander's house is based on THIS. Also posted at AO3. Please feel free to point out any mistakes/offer concrit.
Disclaimer: I am not associated with Amnesia or any of their affiliates. I don't mean any harm, this is all made up.
The rest of the day is a quiet affair and Daniel makes his way into the livingroom for a nap sometime after three in the afternoon and Philip wakes him at six for dinner. Alexander seems strangely quiet as they eat, not that Daniel pretends to know what he’s truly like, but he can’t help watching him, wondering what’s going through his mind.
Eventually, night rolls around and Alexander disappears upstairs, leaving Daniel to wander about, until he grows bored and heads to his room instead. He takes a long bath and slips into another nightshirt, if only for how cool and comfortable it is in the strangely warm bedroom. With his face still burning from the heat of the water, he makes his way to the window and carefully opens on, letting in the light breeze that seems far too hot to be normal.
He stands in front of it, staring out into the darkness, while he thinks about Alexander and the kind of man he is. He’s had men promise him riches before in exchange for a quick fuck, but so far, Alexander is the only one who’s treated him to expensive clothes and food and not expected anything in return. He’s always asked for Daniel’s permission, which is a first for Daniel.
He knows he has to make it up to him, make it worth his time, but he also doesn’t want to disturb him, in case he’s already half-asleep under the sheets. He could always sneak in and surprise him with a quick blowjob and then leave, which he’s sure he’d never complain about, but Alexander seems to break every one of his expectations and assumptions.
In the end, Daniel takes a deep breath, strengthening his resolve, as he marches across the room and throws the door open with every intention of finding Alexander and making him come however he can. All the wind leaves his sails, however, as he finds Alexander already standing there, one hand raised as though he had been about to knock. He actually seems somewhat surprised by Daniel’s sudden appearance.
“Sorry,” Daniel squeaks, heart racing from shock. “Y-you never said if you wanted anything tonight, so I was just coming to see if you needed me.”
“For work, then?”
“O-of course. I don’t want to ruin the agreement you have with Herbert.”
Alexander’s lips thin as though displeased by Daniel’s words and Daniel panics, dreading that he’s said something wrong.
“What if I told you that you had the night off? What would you want to do then?”
Daniel scrambles for an answer, but his brain unhelpfully supplies nothing.
“I d-dont - ?"
Alexander steps forward, staring down at him with a heavy gaze.
“Would you still let me touch you?”
Daniel’s mouth dries out and he doesn’t know how he’s meant to answer a question like that.
“Do you want to?”
Alexander lets the door swing shut behind them and he grips Daniel’s shoulders firmly.
“What do you want, Daniel? This is about you now. If you want me to leave, you need only say.”
Daniel makes his mind up in approximately half a second, as he rises to his tiptoes, curls his fingers into Alexander’s hair, and drags him into a kiss. Alexander’s hands drop to his hips and his mouth opens against Daniel’s, tongue sliding between his lips as though it belongs there. Daniel hums and steps closer, somehow needing to feel every inch of Alexander’s body.
“You can fuck me,” he whispers as he pulls away, taking in a shaky breath and Alexander tips his head as though thinking.
“With my tongue?”
Daniel almost trips over his own feet as he steps back to properly gauge Alexander’s reaction, wondering if he’s even serious.
“What?” he asks as Alexander steers him backwards towards the bed until he’s forced to take a seat on the soft mattress.
“No one’s ever done that to you, have they?”
Daniel swallows, feeling fairly alarmed.
“It’s not clean down there,” he argues and Alexander smiles crookedly.
“It’s cleaner than you think it is. How many men have you done it to? How many of them enjoyed it? You should experience these things too, Daniel.”
With a slight shove, Alexander pushes him down onto the bed and the cooler air from outside begins to drift under the hem of his shirt.
“You shouldn’t,” Daniel continues, watching as Alexander loosens his tie casually. “You’re not the one who’s trying to keep me happy, you know. It’s the other way around. You’re not getting paid to make me come.”
“Neither are you,” Alexander points out calmly, fingertips brushing against Daniel’s soft thighs. “You think I need a reason to enjoy sex? It shouldn’t be a chore, Daniel. Please don’t think I’m being condescending, but it’s true. It’s a shared experience full of passion and moments of vulnerability. It’s about trust and wanting and needing and everything in between. If it makes it easier, just pretend that I’m ordering you to spread your legs and enjoy it.”
With strong hands on Daniel’s hips, Alexander carefully rolls him over onto his stomach, hitching his waist up until Daniel kneels, legs visibly shaking.
“I haven’t even prepared myself,” he argues, but apparently Alexander’s no longer listening because he rucks up the hem of Daniel’s nightshirt and pushes it until it bunches across his back.
He slides his hands over the round firmness of Daniel’s arse, using his thumbs to hold his cheeks apart. Daniel’s face burns with embarrassment and he hides it in the crook of his elbow, wanting nothing more than for the earth to split and swallow him whole. He startles when a hot mouth grazes his skin, teeth nipping and leaving tiny bruises where Daniel can’t see, but can feel, and he holds his breath every time Alexander’s tongue flicks closer to the tight pucker of his hole.
“You really don’t have to do this, Alexander,” he tries, but Alexander’s tongue slides over his entrance and the noise Daniel lets out is more than a little embarrassing.
“You should at least let it happen once, Daniel,” Alexander breathes out and Daniel clings to the sheets, half afraid that he’ll rip them if Alexander even thinks about moving.
Daniel feels every inhale and exhale, the heat of Alexander’s breath, and the way his thumbs tug his cheeks just a little further apart before he dips forward again, the flat of his tongue sliding wetly against him. Daniel tries to clamp his legs shut, his body far too sensitive, but Alexander’s knees gets in the way, forcing him to stay open and exposed.
“Please, I can’t - ” he pleads, but Alexander’s tongue doesn’t relent, the tip even sliding inside him, wriggling insistently before withdrawing again.
“That’s exactly what you said early, but you were so good for me, Daniel. C’mon, show me how well you take it.”
He thrusts his tongue in and out of Daniel’s hole, forcing heaving sobs from him and Daniel can feel Alexander’s smile pressing against his skin. His back arches as he struggles against the hold, though he’s not entirely sure if he’s trying to get more or escape Alexander’s merciless tongue. Alexander gives him a small reprieve as he slides his tongue free and sits back on his heels. Daniel can’t help but look over his shoulder at him, wondering what he has planned. He whimpers quietly and Alexander grins.
“You liked it then?”
Daniel lets out a shaky breath and buries his face back into the covers, unable to respond, but he’s sure they both know the answer. Alexander pats him gently on one raised cheek and leans over towards the nightstand, rummaging around in the top drawer. To be honest, Daniel’s never gone snooping through the room, but doesn’t know whether to be surprised or not when he watches Alexander draw out a tube of lube. Daniel tries to even his breathing, resting his forehead on his arm, but he gasps when a cool, wet finger brushes against his entrance and then again when something warm joins it, realising belatedly that it’s Alexander’s tongue.
It flicks against his entrance as one finger slowly slides into him and he bites his forearm to keep from crying out. Alexander seems to know, because he crooks his finger with almost perfect precision as he rubs against Daniel’s prostate and forces another noise from him.
“Let me hear you,” he murmurs, quickly resuming his work, teasing around Daniel’s tight hole and Daniel pushes back against his mouth.
Without a word, he slides his knees further apart and Alexander hums as though he approves, finger sliding inside as far as it can go. He thrusts it gently, allowing Daniel’s body to adjust before he slips in another and, this time, Daniel lets out a moan that’s not muffled by skin or sheets.
Alexander’s free hand rubs at his waist, as though praising him for good behaviour and Daniel never stops pushing back against his mouth, wanting more. Daniel feels as though he’s about to collapse when Alexander shoves his fingers inside him and then flicks his tongue in the space between them. His body shudders and nothing escapes his mouth when he opens it wide, but it seems as though Alexander already knows because he chuckles and curls his fingers against Daniel’s prostate.
“You’re going to kill me,” Daniel grinds out and Alexander’s tongue presses against him harder.
“As long as you die happy,” Alexander replies smoothly, and in the time it takes Daniel to miss the sensation of his tongue, Alexander slides a third finger into him. He rolls down onto his hand, trying to push them deeper, needing to feel full, but he knows there’s only so much he can get before he wants more.
“Fuck me,” he gasps, shooting a dark stare over his shoulder, needing Alexander to see how desperate he is, and Alexander’s expression changes from teasing to serious in almost no time at all. He pulls his fingers free suddenly and Daniel knows he hasn’t had enough time to loosen up properly, but he doesn’t argue as Alexander undresses and slicks his cock, nudging the head against his hole. “This is how I’d spend my time off,” he whines, loving the feeling of stretching around Alexander’s length as he pushes inside slowly. “I’d let you fuck me again and again until I couldn’t think or breathe or stand another touch.”
Alexander hasn’t even sunken in the entire way inside before he pulls back and slams forward, jolting Daniel’s body, but making his cock ache with need. This is what he wants, he thinks, gripping the covers and pressing back for more. He wants someone who knows how to fuck him properly and give him all that he needs without making him feel as though it’s a chore. This is what Alexander meant about sex, he supposes, it’s about trust and respect and pushing the limits, but never once crossing them to make another feel less than they’re worth.
“Please,” he moans, reaching back to slide his fingers over the soft skin of Alexander’s hip, and Alexander catches his wrist and pins his hand in place with a warm palm. Without pausing, Alexander leans over Daniel’s back, resting one hand on the mattress by Daniel’s head for support as he presses his lips close to Daniel’s ear and exhales warmly.
“I know he called you, Daniel, and you don’t have to stay with him,” he murmurs and Daniel can’t quite figure out what he means, not when he’s so close to coming, body humming with pent up arousal. “I know what sort of man he is and you deserve better.”
Daniel slides his free hand down his stomach, encircling his cock with tight fingers and tugging firmly. It only takes a few more thrusts of Alexander’s hips to make him come over his knuckles, the warmth dripping down thickly onto the covers before he can think to stop it. He sighs as Alexander fucks him through the feeling, his toes tingling from the sudden burst of sensation, and he pushes back, trying to give Alexander pleasure in return. Alexander bites the shell of his ear, hips never faltering, as he continues thrusting into him with short, sharp cants.
“You give me what I deserve, Alexander,” Daniel hisses, body still thrumming, and Alexander lets out a low rumbling noise. “You fuck me until I’m exhausted and can’t move a muscle. You sate every bone in my body and I don’t even think you’re trying. You could blow me apart if you wanted to. You could destroy me and leave me wrecked on the side of the road, and I doubt I’d even care.”
Alexander moans, his hips losing rhythm as he bucks forward, thrusting deep inside of Daniel as he shakes through his release.
“Daniel,” he murmurs, voice hoarse and Daniel wonders if that’s from his own doing. He clenches his muscles around Alexander’s cock, squeezing out as much seed as possible before Alexander slumps against him, stroking his side softly. “Daniel, you have no idea what you do to me.”
Daniel hides his face in the duvet, not wanting Alexander to see how pleased he is with himself, and Alexander trails his mouth down between Daniel’s shoulders.
“I meant what I said about Herbert, Daniel,” he murmurs and Daniel tenses.
“What?”
Slowly Alexander pulls out of him, letting come drip free, which Daniel ignores in favour of rolling over and staring at Alexander as though he’s grown a second head. Alexander reaches over for a tissue, cleaning himself off while Daniel watches impatiently.
“I saw on the call log that he’d phoned the house today and since he didn’t leave a message for me, I assume he wanted to speak to you instead. What did he threaten you with?”
Daniel opens and closes his mouth a few times without making a sound.
“He didn’t,” he finally lies and Alexander raises his eyebrow.
“Yes, because Herbert is such a thoughtful man. You don’t have to lie to me, Daniel.”
“And you don’t have to protect me, Alexander. I don’t need saving as much as you might think. We’ve been through this before.”
Daniel slips from the bed with the intention of cleaning himself in the bathroom, but Alexander apparently has other ideas.
“Daniel, come here.”
“I need to wash.”
“Daniel!”
Daniel actually stops, his body tensing, waiting for Alexander to lash out when he hears footsteps padding closer. Fingers grip his shoulders firmly, spinning him around, and he raises his hands to protect his face, hunching over slightly. Alexander immediately lets go of him, taking a step back with his palms open in surrender.
“I wasn’t going to hurt you, Daniel,” he says, sounding aghast that Daniel would even think it. “What has he done to make you like this?”
When Daniel realises he’s not about to be struck, he lowers his hands, peering at Alexander with wide eyes. He blinks and looks away, staring at the floor instead.
“It wasn’t just Herbert, Alexander. There aren’t very many men around out there with a lot of respect for others.”
“Herbert put you in the hospital, Daniel.”
“So have a lot of people.”
The expression on Alexander’s face hints that he wants names and addresses, so he can personally see to them, but instead Alexander moves closer, one hand slowly sliding around Daniel’s neck, fingers tangling in his hair gently. His thumb rubs his skin soothingly, but Daniel knows he must be able to feel his racing heartbeat.
“What did he say to you, Daniel?”
Daniel can’t bring himself to meet Alexander’s gaze, so he stares at his collarbone instead.
“He said I should make you forget about him.”
“Did he suggest how you should go about that?”
Daniel hiccoughs quietly, a panic attack looming nearby, but Alexander continues stroking his neck, grounding him.
“By giving you the best fuck you’ve ever had.”
“Did you try and follow his advice?”
Daniel’s laugh sounds slightly hysterical, and he covers his mouth to stop it from escaping.
“You tell me,” he says, thankful that Alexander grabs a hold of him as his knees give out, and gently lowers Daniel to the floor. “If I don’t pay off Herbert’s debt by giving you my body, he said he’ll put me back in the hospital.”
Alexander draws him closer and Daniel clings to his warmth, uncaring of what Alexander might think of him. Alexander flattens Daniel’s hair down and strokes a palm down his face.
“Daniel, I won’t let that happen. I’ll make him pay his debt.”
“Then he’ll tell me I failed and put me back where I belong.”
He pushes his face into Alexander’s chest, breathing in the scent that has become familiar to him, and it calms him just enough to keep breathing, not letting the anxiety take over.
“I’ll make him give me you, as well.” Daniel snorts quietly at the joke, but Alexander sits back and looks at him soberly. “I’m serious, Daniel.”
Daniel smiles bitterly.
“It doesn’t work like that. There’s always money involved.”
“Money isn’t an issue here.”
“I’m pretty sure what you’re talking about is slavery and I’m pretty sure it’s illegal.”
“But selling yourself to multiple people for money isn’t?”
Daniel sighs, conceding to the fair point, but he doesn’t let himself hope.
“He’ll never agree to it.”
With a finger under Daniel’s chin, Alexander tilts his head back until their eyes finally meet once more.
“Men like Herbert are easy to buy.”
Daniel stares at him, trying to read his expression, wondering what’s in it for him.
“Why would you help someone like me? I suppose I’d have to obey your every whim after. I’d be in your debt, after all.”
Alexander shrugs as if he hasn’t given it much thought.
“You can do whatever you want. Go home or live here; either way, it doesn’t matter.”
“How would I afford to live alone? My CV isn’t exactly screaming hire me.”
“I can pull some strings. You can start out in any entry-level job you want. Your past is as good as gone, if you want it to be.”
“Are you making a habit of saving rentboys?”
It slips out before he can stop it and his eyes widen when he realises what he’s given away. Alexander’s face goes surprisingly blank.
“What would you know about that?” he asks, voice dangerously low.
“I-it was Philip who told me, but it wasn’t his fault, I swear! Please don’t be angry with him. I didn’t exactly handle the call from Herbert well and he was there to comfort me. He actually suggested that I tell you and told me about Fowler to prove that you’re a good man.”
“Yet, you still kept it from me.”
Daniel touches Alexander’s shoulder lightly and looks into his eyes.
“I already knew you were a good man. I just didn’t want to burden you with my problems. Why should I make you fight my battles for me?”
“Daniel, no one deserves to be treated the way Herbert and his customers treat you. If I can fix your situation, I’m going to, with or without your approval, because no man should live in fear of others.”
Slowly, Alexander stands, holding out a hand for Daniel to take, which he eventually does, letting Alexander pull him up. With his hands on Daniel’s shoulders, he carefully guides him into the bathroom, turning on the shower and letting it warm up before encouraging Daniel under the spray. He follows after him and Daniel thinks about pointing out that he’s not entirely in the mood for another round, but Alexander doesn’t even glance down at his body, just squeezes body wash onto a sponge and begins scrubbing at Daniel’s skin. He doesn’t try to touch him inappropriately and doesn’t even watch when he hands the sponge to Daniel to let him clean the more intimate areas.
Daniel wonders idly if it’s what it would be like if he was finally treated like a human being and he can’t help but picture a life that’s free from Herbert and men who threaten to kill him when he doesn’t do what they want. He glances up at Alexander, who looks at him as if he already knows, and Daniel wonders what he’s done to deserve someone like him.
*
Alexander doesn’t leave him that night.
After rubbing him down with an oversized, fluffy towel in the bedroom, Alexander urges him under the covers and follows after, curling up behind him as though trying to ward off monsters under the bed. Daniel nestles back against him and shuts his eyes, trying to keep Herbert from his thoughts.
However, he wakes up in the middle of the night in a cold sweat, heart thundering from the nightmare he’d had where Herbert had found him and made him pay for not keeping his word. Alexander’s already awake, rubbing his back, and murmuring soothing words to calm him down. Daniel rolls over, tucking his head below Alexander’s chin and winding his arms around Alexander’s body.
“Don’t make me go back,” he whispers against Alexander’s neck, mouth grazing his warm skin, and Alexander pulls him closer.
“I’ll take care of it,” he promises and Daniel doesn’t remember falling back asleep, but there are no more dreams for the rest of the night and when he wakes in the morning, Alexander’s still there with him.
*
After breakfast, Alexander leaves for work with a quiet farewell and a gentle squeeze of Daniel’s shoulder.
Daniel sits and watches television for a few hours before he finally makes his way outside, where the sun is shining brightly and it feels like a true summer’s day. He flops onto the grass, clutching a book he’d found in the library, and begins reading, waiting for Alexander to return. The heat becomes oppressive sometime in the early afternoon when Philip brings out a sandwich and a glass of Pimms for him and he ends up slipping out of his shirt to cool off.
“Mind you don’t burn, sir” Philip says as he sets the plate down and hands Daniel the drink. Daniel takes a small sip and then sets it aside.
“I’ll move into the shade in a little while. It’s just nice to finally feel some warmth.” Philip nods and begins to turn away, but Daniel calls him back quickly. “Philip. I-I just wanted to thank you for your suggestion yesterday.”
“You told him then?”
“Yeah, he said he’d try and help.”
“I’m glad, Daniel. God knows you deserve some kindness.”
Daniel watches him as he makes his way back into the house and then rolls over and begins eating lunch.
*
Alexander comes home around six in the evening when the sun is low and Daniel is in fact rather sunburnt. He’s laying face-down on one of the settees, his back too painful to rest on, and he hears footsteps and a tut from the doorway.
“Did you forget to put on suntan lotion?”
Daniel groans quietly and turns his head to look at him.
“I didn’t think I’d get that burnt. I even laid in the shade for most of the time.”
“I’m sure we have something for that. Don’t move.”
Daniel dozes while Alexander’s gone, but startles away at the feeling of something cold dripping onto his back.
“Gah! What’s that?” he complains, trying to slide away, but Alexander pins him with one hand, while the other rubs the substance into the skin on his back.
“Aloe vera,” Alexander explains, dripping more across his shoulders and down to the small of his back. “It should stop the burning.”
Daniel lets out a quiet moan as the gel does just that, finally offering him a reprieve, and he slumps bonelessly against the cushions below.
“Oh my god,” he mumbles. “You’re a blessing.”
“Be glad that I’m even doing this, Daniel. You should know better than to lie in the sun, especially with your pale complexion.”
“If this is the outcome every time, it’ll be well worth it.” Alexander presses down on his back a little harder than necessary and Daniel hisses before he laughs. “Alright, alright; I’ve learnt my lesson.”
Alexander sighs and finishes rubbing the cooling gel onto his skin and afterwards disappears for a few moments - Daniel guesses it’s so he can wash his hands - and Daniel sits up to make room for him on the seat when he returns, looking rather exhausted.
“How was your day?” he asks, turning sideways so he doesn’t get aloe vera everywhere and Alexander scoops his legs up and drapes them over his thighs, holding them in place even when Daniel complains and tries to draw them back.
“It was dull,” he replies, pushing the material of Daniel’s trousers up as he rubs at his shins.
“Hmm, that’s no good.” Daniel shifts forward, sliding sideways into Alexander’s lap, and tugs gently at his tie. “I think I have an idea on how to improve it.”
Alexander’s expression doesn’t change, not even when Daniel leans in and brushes their mouths together softly, but his grip does tighten slightly on Daniel’s legs. Daniel keeps it slow and gentle, repeatedly pressing his lips to Alexander’s, enjoying the way Alexander’s mouth opens expectantly every time. It’s just when he parts his own lips and tugs Alexander closer, a second away from licking into his mouth, that Philip knocks on the doorframe and clears his throat.
Daniel pulls away guiltily, sliding off of Alexander’s lap and sitting on the settee cushion once more; Alexander doesn’t even seem to blink.
“Sorry to interrupt, sir, but dinner is served.”
“Thank you, Philip,” Alexander replies smoothly and Philip vanishes once more. Daniel stands and finds his shirt, knowing he can’t sit at the table without it. With a hiss of disgust, Daniel pulls it back on, the material sticking wetly where the lotion clings to his skin, and when he turns back, Alexander has already left the room.
*
The rest of the night is a quiet affair and when Daniel falls asleep with a book in his hands for the third time, Alexander gently slides it from his grasp and nudges him awake.
“Time for bed,” he says, and Daniel stands and follows him tiredly upstairs without a word. Alexander leads him to his own room, shutting the door behind them, and catching Daniel around the waist to tug his shirt off. Daniel mumbles sleepily, wondering if Alexander wants more from him because he’s almost sure he doesn’t have the energy. However, Alexander just helps him out of his clothes and directs him towards the bed, where Daniel flops face-first onto the mattress, allowing Alexander to tug the sheets up over his body.
He feels the slight shift as Alexander crawls in beside him, but then promptly dozes off.
*
He wakes when the moon is still high in the sky outside and he feels as though he’s on fire. He pushes the covers down, knowing it’s the sunburn that’s making him overheat, but even the coolness of the room isn’t enough to help. He lies there hopelessly for a few minutes before he realises it isn’t helping.
He slips from the bed and heads for the open window across the room, but even the outside air feels muggy and hot. He leans outside, the gentle breeze ruffling his hair, but his back hums with heat and he knows he needs to cool off quickly. He thinks briefly about waking Alexander to put more aloe vera on his skin, but when he glances over, Alexander looks far too comfortable to disturb, his face soft and relaxed in sleep.
Grabbing a robe from the bathroom, he quietly makes his way out of the room and down the hallway, thankful that the moonlight is bright enough to guide his way. Carefully, he wanders down the stairs and through the conservatory to the door leading outside. He unlocks it with a gentle click and steps out into the night, breathing deeply. The pool lights glow softly, making the water seem clearer and far too inviting for Daniel not to dip one bare foot in. He expects it to be shockingly cold, but apparently Alexander can afford to keep it heated because the water is lukewarm and perfect.
For a brief moment, he glances around, heart thumping madly at the thought of skinny-dipping, but he can’t even see another light in any direction and he’s thankful for the privacy. He slips the robe off and shimmies out of his underwear, hugging himself self-consciously, understanding that it’s not the best idea he’s ever had before, but no one will ever know.
He almost believes he can hear the hiss of his skin meeting the cooler water as he steps in up to his calves and he knows it will feel like bliss on his back. Slowly, he walks down the stairs, wading further into the pool, until it’s up to his chest and there’s nowhere for him to go except into the deep end. He sighs in pleasure as it soothes his thrumming body and he tips his head back, wetting his hair and letting it lay pleasantly on his neck. Without another thought, he dips underwater, holding his breath and listening to the silence, wishing that he could stay there and forget about everything. When he resurfaces, he wipes the water from his eyes and floats on his back, looking up at the stars above and letting his skin cool off.
He almost breathes in a mouthful of water when the click of the door takes him by surprise. He stands, wondering if it’s too late to hide from whoever it is, but realises he doesn’t need to when Alexander steps onto the patio, wearing a worn t-shirt and a pair of boxers, carrying a towel in one hand.
“I thought you might need this,” he says when he notices Daniel staring and Daniel swims to the edge of the pool, resting his chin on the cool concrete. A thousand thoughts fill his mind and he doesn’t know whether he should apologise for waking him or using his pool without permission. “Was it your back?”
Daniel blinks, wondering if Alexander actually is omniscient, and then nods dumbly.
“I wasn’t planning on swimming, but it’s just cool enough to help.”
Alexander drapes the towel over the end of a sun-lounger and then reaches for the hem of his shirt, Daniel watching, his eyes widening in surprise.
“Y-you’re coming in?” he asks even as Alexander pulls the clothing over his head and drops it next to the towel. Alexander shrugs before reaching for his boxers.
“It’s a nice night; why not?”
His underwear slides to his ankles and Daniel can’t help but look, knowing he’s seen it all before, but not like this, bathed in moonlight in the calm of the night. He follows Alexander with his gaze, watching him make his way to the steps to slowly descend into the water. Alexander hisses quietly and shoots a look at Daniel.
“This is colder than I thought it would be.”
Daniel smiles and swims towards him until he can finally touch the floor.
“It must be the sunburn keeping me warm.”
“I guess I’ll have to find my own heat source.”
Daniel snorts and for the first time in his life, it doesn’t feel at all like a chore to wade closer to Alexander, slide his arms around his shoulders, and drag him down into a kiss. Alexander responds immediately, opening his mouth against Daniel’s and deepening the contact. With the water giving him extra buoyancy, he wraps his legs around Alexander’s waist, pulling himself up, while Alexander’s hands drop to his buttocks, holding him tightly.
“Warm enough for you?” he mumbles in between kisses and Alexander carries him to the steps, setting him on the second stair down, where the water reaches just above Daniel’s navel. Daniel spreads his legs to accommodate Alexander’s body and tugs him closer. He can feel the heat of Alexander’s skin even underwater and Alexander holds his hips and ruts forward, drawing a moan from Daniel. “I thought I came out here to cool off.”
Alexander nips at Daniel’s bottom lip and pulls back to look at him.
“You started this; I’m just ending it.”
“As long as it’s a happy ending,” Daniel retorts, shifting against him and whining low in his throat as their cocks drag together. With his nails digging into Alexander’s back, Daniel repeats the motion and bites Alexander’s throat gently. “Look what you do to me. You’re like a drug.”
Alexander apparently has no qualms with that because he thrusts against Daniel’s body as if he’s just as far gone. Daniel dips his arm under the water, taking them both in hand and stroking quickly, messing up Alexander’s rhythm and making them both pant in the quiet of the night.
“I don’t think we should make a mess of the water,” Alexander says rationally, as he scoops Daniel up and sets him on the side of the pool instead. “Philip has enough issues.”
Daniel laughs against Alexander’s shoulder and clings to him as they rock together slowly, building up momentum.
“I think he deserves a raise.”
“I don’t think you know how much he gets paid to begin with.”
Daniel gasps at a particularly good thrust and digs his teeth into the skin under his mouth before replying.
“Perhaps I should be working for you after all.”
“I promise I wouldn’t make you perform grunt work,” he teases and Daniel bites him harder.
“I could be your professional dresser. Or perhaps undresser.”
“It would have to be the latter since you can’t knot a tie.”
Daniel moans, not even caring about Alexander’s quip as his cock nudges into the hollow of Alexander’s hip and he finds himself on the brink of orgasm.
“I think I’d be okay with whatever you gave me,” he gasps out and Alexander smirks at him.
“What about a good fuck?”
Daniel tenses, his breath stuttering as he comes across Alexander’s stomach and he feels the rumble of Alexander’s laugh vibrating through their bodies.
“I guess that’s my answer,” he says and Daniel tightens his grip on his cock, just to spite him. He twists his wrist and rubs just under the head of his erection, making Alexander jolt forwards at the touch and before he even knows it, Alexander’s following suit, breathing hard against his neck as he rolls his hips through the pleasure.
“What were you saying?” Daniel teases, but it doesn’t quite have the same effect when he’s gasping for air and rocking his hips into Alexander’s, slowing coming down from his high.
Eventually, Alexander leans back, pressing a gentle kiss to his lips before drawing away.
“I’m thankfully not cold anymore; however, my fingers are rather prune-like.”
He holds his hand up for Daniel to see and Daniel catches his wrist and brings his fingertips up to his mouth.
“I suppose that means it’s time to go back to bed.”
Alexander slowly drags himself out of the pool, stooping to pick up the towel to drape it over Daniel’s shoulders.
“Are midnight swims part of your normal routine?”
Daniel pushes himself to his feet and dries himself off, careful of his sore back.
“I don’t remember the last time I went swimming, actually.”
“Would it have to be written into your work contract that you need free reign of the pool during odd hours?”
“I’m sure we could work something out, however, we will have to discuss it in the morning, because I’m not in the right mindset to think.”
Alexander pulls his clothes on without even drying off and when he places his palm on the small of Daniel’s back and leads them towards the house, Daniel turns in his grip and halts him with a hand on his chest. Alexander stares silently down at him and Daniel truly doesn’t know what he wants to say.
Instead, he trails his fingers along Alexander’s jaw and pulls him into a kiss, which Alexander responds to gently, tongue slow and soft against Daniel’s own. He doesn’t know how and he doesn’t know when, but he’s almost sure that Alexander’s found his way under his skin without realising it and he has no idea how to get him out.
*
When Daniel comes downstairs the next morning feeling refreshed and content, the first thing he notices is the pile of boxes in the corner by the front door, which is wide open, revealing Philip and Alexander as they both carry more things back towards the house.
“What’s all this?” he asks, nudging a box with his foot, but that’s before he notices what Alexander’s carrying. “Is that my television?”
Alexander steps around him, placing the small TV on the ground with everything else.
“Your flat should be condemned,” he says instead of an explanation and Daniel folds his arms.
“What the fuck is going on?”
Alexander finally stops and turns towards him, looking faintly shocked that Daniel’s raised his voice. He clears his throat and waits until Philip is back outside before speaking.
“One or two of Herbert’s friends might be looking for you.”
“What? How do you know? Does that mean I can’t go back home?”
“It turns out Herbert’s been up to some shady business on the side of even more shady business. I might have informed an officer of the law of his whereabouts because it seems he’s a bit of a wanted man.”
“You what?” Daniel asks, not quite believe what he’s hearing.
“Herbert can’t make you do anything when he’s in prison, can he?”
“What about his men?”
“I might be able to convince them to change loyalties, but until I get the opportunity to meet with them, you’ll need to stay here for safety.”
Daniel blinks slowly, his mind racing at a million thoughts per second.
“So Herbert’s gone?”
“Unless by some miracle he’s found innocent, he’ll be spending the next five or six years off the streets.”
Daniel can’t process it all and he ends up sitting heavily on top of one of the boxes.
“So I - ” he begins before falling silent as his brain catches up. “So I don’t have to go back?”
“You said you didn’t want to.”
Daniel nods, feeling rather stunned.
“I don’t. I just never believed it would ever happen, though.”
Alexander tucks a loose strand of hair behind Daniel’s ear.
“I can find you another flat if you’d like, else the guestroom will remain open to you for as long as you need.”
“Just until I get another job, right?”
“Whatever you wish, Daniel; it’s your decision.”
Daniel stands and, without thinking, winds his arms around Alexander waist, drawing him into a firm hug. It’s not much of an offering, but it’s all he has and Alexander’s hands come up to rest along his spine, holding him just as tightly. For the first time in his life, there’s no overhanging dread or panic and being wrapped up in Alexander’s arms feels as though it’s the beginning of his second chance at life and he’s going to do it right this time.
With one final squeeze, he draws away and looks up at Alexander.
“Thank you,” he says and Alexander shoots him a small smile.
“You’re welcome. Now, go help Philip before I change my mind.”
Daniel laughs, but steps outside with a grin on his face and warmth in his heart.
*
Epilogue:
“Oh god, he’s back,” Daniel murmurs, turning his back to the door to try to hide himself from view. The man who’s just walked in to the shop slowly glances around and Daniel feels his heavy gaze, knowing he’s been caught.
“That trick won’t work on me,” he says making his way over to Daniel, who turns to finally face him.
“It won’t stop me from trying,” he says as fingers find their way to his hips. “Are you here to be professionally undressed again?”
Alexander smirks and backs Daniel up against the nearest wall, looming over him and beginning to lean in, presumably for a kiss, but before their lips meet, Jones steps out of the backroom and sighs exaggeratedly.
“Mr Brennenburg, I do wish you’d stop harassing my employees.”
Alexander breathes out, meeting Daniel’s gaze from close up, looking comically disappointed at being disrupted.
“It’s Friday, Jones; we have this conversation every week.”
“And I keep hoping that perhaps one day you’ll finally listen.”
Alexander looks sideways at him and Daniel smoothes his hands down Alexander’s sides.
“Jones? Is it okay?” he asks and Jones rolls his eyes teasingly.
“Could I ever stop you?”
“No,” Alexander supplies unhelpfully, and Daniel pinches his hip lightly.
“You know what he’s like,” Daniel reasons and Jones looks up with another sigh.
“Fine, but only because I know otherwise he’ll drag you into the dressing room and ruin my life and possibly my sanity.”
Daniel tries to hide his smile and fails.
“Go get your coat,” Alexander murmurs quietly against his cheek before raising his voice for Jones to hear. “I’ll wait for you outside where the atmosphere is much more inviting and far less spiky.”
Jones lets out a cough that sounds suspiciously like a curse and Daniel laughs and slips from Alexander’s grasp to go and collect his things.
“Red’s trousers still need hemming and Clarence dropped off a new jacket this morning, so that should be bumped to top priority,” Daniel says as he clocks out beside Jones. Jones makes a quick note on their agenda and shoots a smile over his shoulder.
“Cheers. Have a good weekend, Daniel. Which one are you two going to this time?”
“Alexander hasn’t said, but I’m thinking it’ll probably be Chariots of Fire, since I think it’s the only one we haven’t seen yet.”
Jones chuckles quietly.
“He spoils you completely.”
“Only when it comes to theatre.”
“That’s the biggest lie I’ve ever heard. I know for a fact he spoils you with everything.”
Daniel concedes with a laugh and pulls his coat on.
“He likes it; I’m not going to complain.”
“I’m sure you won’t,” he replies with a wink. “Go on; get out of here before he accuses me of holding you hostage.”
Daniel pats him lightly on the shoulder and heads for the door. Just as he reaches for the handle, however, Jones speaks again.
“I knew he wasn’t your uncle when you first came in here,” he says and Daniel flushes and turns to look at him. It’s been almost half a year since the debacle happened and he’d almost forgotten. “He’s good for you, though, and as long as he keeps you happy, I know I won’t have to break his hands.”
Daniel lets out a sharp laugh.
“Goodnight, Jones.”
“Yeah, yeah,” he hears as he steps from the store, shutting the door quietly behind him, and he has a hard time keeping the smile off his face.
He finds Alexander leaning against the car, waiting for him patiently.
“Ready?” he asks, holding two tickets up. Daniel notices the name on them and can’t help but snort.
“I told Jones it would be Chariots of Fire. You’re losing your touch, old man.”
Alexander opens the car door and narrows his eyes in jest.
“Get in before I leave you here.”
*
When they finally stumble through the front door of Alexander’s home after the play, Daniel wraps an arm around Alexander’s waist tiredly, using him to pull him up the stairs and down the hallway.
As they step into the bedroom, Alexander flicks on the light and lets out a disgruntled noise, allowing Daniel to step away.
“How can one person make so much mess?” he complains, stepping over two of Daniel’s shirts on the floor.
“I’m entirely certain that you dropped at least one of those there this morning with the exact words of, ‘that will look better on my floor’. Or have you forgotten?”
Alexander shoots him a look.
“How have you managed to take over so much space? I seem to remember someone telling me they’d move out as soon as they found a job, except I’m sure you started working with Jones about five months ago and yet you’re still here.”
“If you want me to leave, you only have to say.”
Alexander hums as though thinking.
“And if I don’t?”
Daniel tangles his arms around Alexander’s neck and tugs him down closer.
“Then shut up.” He smiles as Alexander closes the final distance between them, dropping a quick kiss to his lips, and Daniel tightens his hold. “You wouldn’t be able to get rid of me even if you wanted to. You’re stuck with me now.”
Alexander sighs in mock-disappointment and slowly begins to back Daniel towards the bed.
“Terrible. Awful. Couldn’t think of anything worse,” he murmurs and Daniel doesn’t believe a word as he pulls him down and keeps him quiet.
*
«« PART ONE // « PART TWO
Pairing: Daniel/Alexander
Summary: AU: Daniel is a rentboy who is given to Alexander as collateral for a business deal.
Warnings: Dub-con, prostitution, explicit sexual content.
Author: blacktofade
Words: 7,511 / 26,418
Rating: NC-17
A/N: Alexander's house is based on THIS. Also posted at AO3. Please feel free to point out any mistakes/offer concrit.
Disclaimer: I am not associated with Amnesia or any of their affiliates. I don't mean any harm, this is all made up.
The rest of the day is a quiet affair and Daniel makes his way into the livingroom for a nap sometime after three in the afternoon and Philip wakes him at six for dinner. Alexander seems strangely quiet as they eat, not that Daniel pretends to know what he’s truly like, but he can’t help watching him, wondering what’s going through his mind.
Eventually, night rolls around and Alexander disappears upstairs, leaving Daniel to wander about, until he grows bored and heads to his room instead. He takes a long bath and slips into another nightshirt, if only for how cool and comfortable it is in the strangely warm bedroom. With his face still burning from the heat of the water, he makes his way to the window and carefully opens on, letting in the light breeze that seems far too hot to be normal.
He stands in front of it, staring out into the darkness, while he thinks about Alexander and the kind of man he is. He’s had men promise him riches before in exchange for a quick fuck, but so far, Alexander is the only one who’s treated him to expensive clothes and food and not expected anything in return. He’s always asked for Daniel’s permission, which is a first for Daniel.
He knows he has to make it up to him, make it worth his time, but he also doesn’t want to disturb him, in case he’s already half-asleep under the sheets. He could always sneak in and surprise him with a quick blowjob and then leave, which he’s sure he’d never complain about, but Alexander seems to break every one of his expectations and assumptions.
In the end, Daniel takes a deep breath, strengthening his resolve, as he marches across the room and throws the door open with every intention of finding Alexander and making him come however he can. All the wind leaves his sails, however, as he finds Alexander already standing there, one hand raised as though he had been about to knock. He actually seems somewhat surprised by Daniel’s sudden appearance.
“Sorry,” Daniel squeaks, heart racing from shock. “Y-you never said if you wanted anything tonight, so I was just coming to see if you needed me.”
“For work, then?”
“O-of course. I don’t want to ruin the agreement you have with Herbert.”
Alexander’s lips thin as though displeased by Daniel’s words and Daniel panics, dreading that he’s said something wrong.
“What if I told you that you had the night off? What would you want to do then?”
Daniel scrambles for an answer, but his brain unhelpfully supplies nothing.
“I d-dont - ?"
Alexander steps forward, staring down at him with a heavy gaze.
“Would you still let me touch you?”
Daniel’s mouth dries out and he doesn’t know how he’s meant to answer a question like that.
“Do you want to?”
Alexander lets the door swing shut behind them and he grips Daniel’s shoulders firmly.
“What do you want, Daniel? This is about you now. If you want me to leave, you need only say.”
Daniel makes his mind up in approximately half a second, as he rises to his tiptoes, curls his fingers into Alexander’s hair, and drags him into a kiss. Alexander’s hands drop to his hips and his mouth opens against Daniel’s, tongue sliding between his lips as though it belongs there. Daniel hums and steps closer, somehow needing to feel every inch of Alexander’s body.
“You can fuck me,” he whispers as he pulls away, taking in a shaky breath and Alexander tips his head as though thinking.
“With my tongue?”
Daniel almost trips over his own feet as he steps back to properly gauge Alexander’s reaction, wondering if he’s even serious.
“What?” he asks as Alexander steers him backwards towards the bed until he’s forced to take a seat on the soft mattress.
“No one’s ever done that to you, have they?”
Daniel swallows, feeling fairly alarmed.
“It’s not clean down there,” he argues and Alexander smiles crookedly.
“It’s cleaner than you think it is. How many men have you done it to? How many of them enjoyed it? You should experience these things too, Daniel.”
With a slight shove, Alexander pushes him down onto the bed and the cooler air from outside begins to drift under the hem of his shirt.
“You shouldn’t,” Daniel continues, watching as Alexander loosens his tie casually. “You’re not the one who’s trying to keep me happy, you know. It’s the other way around. You’re not getting paid to make me come.”
“Neither are you,” Alexander points out calmly, fingertips brushing against Daniel’s soft thighs. “You think I need a reason to enjoy sex? It shouldn’t be a chore, Daniel. Please don’t think I’m being condescending, but it’s true. It’s a shared experience full of passion and moments of vulnerability. It’s about trust and wanting and needing and everything in between. If it makes it easier, just pretend that I’m ordering you to spread your legs and enjoy it.”
With strong hands on Daniel’s hips, Alexander carefully rolls him over onto his stomach, hitching his waist up until Daniel kneels, legs visibly shaking.
“I haven’t even prepared myself,” he argues, but apparently Alexander’s no longer listening because he rucks up the hem of Daniel’s nightshirt and pushes it until it bunches across his back.
He slides his hands over the round firmness of Daniel’s arse, using his thumbs to hold his cheeks apart. Daniel’s face burns with embarrassment and he hides it in the crook of his elbow, wanting nothing more than for the earth to split and swallow him whole. He startles when a hot mouth grazes his skin, teeth nipping and leaving tiny bruises where Daniel can’t see, but can feel, and he holds his breath every time Alexander’s tongue flicks closer to the tight pucker of his hole.
“You really don’t have to do this, Alexander,” he tries, but Alexander’s tongue slides over his entrance and the noise Daniel lets out is more than a little embarrassing.
“You should at least let it happen once, Daniel,” Alexander breathes out and Daniel clings to the sheets, half afraid that he’ll rip them if Alexander even thinks about moving.
Daniel feels every inhale and exhale, the heat of Alexander’s breath, and the way his thumbs tug his cheeks just a little further apart before he dips forward again, the flat of his tongue sliding wetly against him. Daniel tries to clamp his legs shut, his body far too sensitive, but Alexander’s knees gets in the way, forcing him to stay open and exposed.
“Please, I can’t - ” he pleads, but Alexander’s tongue doesn’t relent, the tip even sliding inside him, wriggling insistently before withdrawing again.
“That’s exactly what you said early, but you were so good for me, Daniel. C’mon, show me how well you take it.”
He thrusts his tongue in and out of Daniel’s hole, forcing heaving sobs from him and Daniel can feel Alexander’s smile pressing against his skin. His back arches as he struggles against the hold, though he’s not entirely sure if he’s trying to get more or escape Alexander’s merciless tongue. Alexander gives him a small reprieve as he slides his tongue free and sits back on his heels. Daniel can’t help but look over his shoulder at him, wondering what he has planned. He whimpers quietly and Alexander grins.
“You liked it then?”
Daniel lets out a shaky breath and buries his face back into the covers, unable to respond, but he’s sure they both know the answer. Alexander pats him gently on one raised cheek and leans over towards the nightstand, rummaging around in the top drawer. To be honest, Daniel’s never gone snooping through the room, but doesn’t know whether to be surprised or not when he watches Alexander draw out a tube of lube. Daniel tries to even his breathing, resting his forehead on his arm, but he gasps when a cool, wet finger brushes against his entrance and then again when something warm joins it, realising belatedly that it’s Alexander’s tongue.
It flicks against his entrance as one finger slowly slides into him and he bites his forearm to keep from crying out. Alexander seems to know, because he crooks his finger with almost perfect precision as he rubs against Daniel’s prostate and forces another noise from him.
“Let me hear you,” he murmurs, quickly resuming his work, teasing around Daniel’s tight hole and Daniel pushes back against his mouth.
Without a word, he slides his knees further apart and Alexander hums as though he approves, finger sliding inside as far as it can go. He thrusts it gently, allowing Daniel’s body to adjust before he slips in another and, this time, Daniel lets out a moan that’s not muffled by skin or sheets.
Alexander’s free hand rubs at his waist, as though praising him for good behaviour and Daniel never stops pushing back against his mouth, wanting more. Daniel feels as though he’s about to collapse when Alexander shoves his fingers inside him and then flicks his tongue in the space between them. His body shudders and nothing escapes his mouth when he opens it wide, but it seems as though Alexander already knows because he chuckles and curls his fingers against Daniel’s prostate.
“You’re going to kill me,” Daniel grinds out and Alexander’s tongue presses against him harder.
“As long as you die happy,” Alexander replies smoothly, and in the time it takes Daniel to miss the sensation of his tongue, Alexander slides a third finger into him. He rolls down onto his hand, trying to push them deeper, needing to feel full, but he knows there’s only so much he can get before he wants more.
“Fuck me,” he gasps, shooting a dark stare over his shoulder, needing Alexander to see how desperate he is, and Alexander’s expression changes from teasing to serious in almost no time at all. He pulls his fingers free suddenly and Daniel knows he hasn’t had enough time to loosen up properly, but he doesn’t argue as Alexander undresses and slicks his cock, nudging the head against his hole. “This is how I’d spend my time off,” he whines, loving the feeling of stretching around Alexander’s length as he pushes inside slowly. “I’d let you fuck me again and again until I couldn’t think or breathe or stand another touch.”
Alexander hasn’t even sunken in the entire way inside before he pulls back and slams forward, jolting Daniel’s body, but making his cock ache with need. This is what he wants, he thinks, gripping the covers and pressing back for more. He wants someone who knows how to fuck him properly and give him all that he needs without making him feel as though it’s a chore. This is what Alexander meant about sex, he supposes, it’s about trust and respect and pushing the limits, but never once crossing them to make another feel less than they’re worth.
“Please,” he moans, reaching back to slide his fingers over the soft skin of Alexander’s hip, and Alexander catches his wrist and pins his hand in place with a warm palm. Without pausing, Alexander leans over Daniel’s back, resting one hand on the mattress by Daniel’s head for support as he presses his lips close to Daniel’s ear and exhales warmly.
“I know he called you, Daniel, and you don’t have to stay with him,” he murmurs and Daniel can’t quite figure out what he means, not when he’s so close to coming, body humming with pent up arousal. “I know what sort of man he is and you deserve better.”
Daniel slides his free hand down his stomach, encircling his cock with tight fingers and tugging firmly. It only takes a few more thrusts of Alexander’s hips to make him come over his knuckles, the warmth dripping down thickly onto the covers before he can think to stop it. He sighs as Alexander fucks him through the feeling, his toes tingling from the sudden burst of sensation, and he pushes back, trying to give Alexander pleasure in return. Alexander bites the shell of his ear, hips never faltering, as he continues thrusting into him with short, sharp cants.
“You give me what I deserve, Alexander,” Daniel hisses, body still thrumming, and Alexander lets out a low rumbling noise. “You fuck me until I’m exhausted and can’t move a muscle. You sate every bone in my body and I don’t even think you’re trying. You could blow me apart if you wanted to. You could destroy me and leave me wrecked on the side of the road, and I doubt I’d even care.”
Alexander moans, his hips losing rhythm as he bucks forward, thrusting deep inside of Daniel as he shakes through his release.
“Daniel,” he murmurs, voice hoarse and Daniel wonders if that’s from his own doing. He clenches his muscles around Alexander’s cock, squeezing out as much seed as possible before Alexander slumps against him, stroking his side softly. “Daniel, you have no idea what you do to me.”
Daniel hides his face in the duvet, not wanting Alexander to see how pleased he is with himself, and Alexander trails his mouth down between Daniel’s shoulders.
“I meant what I said about Herbert, Daniel,” he murmurs and Daniel tenses.
“What?”
Slowly Alexander pulls out of him, letting come drip free, which Daniel ignores in favour of rolling over and staring at Alexander as though he’s grown a second head. Alexander reaches over for a tissue, cleaning himself off while Daniel watches impatiently.
“I saw on the call log that he’d phoned the house today and since he didn’t leave a message for me, I assume he wanted to speak to you instead. What did he threaten you with?”
Daniel opens and closes his mouth a few times without making a sound.
“He didn’t,” he finally lies and Alexander raises his eyebrow.
“Yes, because Herbert is such a thoughtful man. You don’t have to lie to me, Daniel.”
“And you don’t have to protect me, Alexander. I don’t need saving as much as you might think. We’ve been through this before.”
Daniel slips from the bed with the intention of cleaning himself in the bathroom, but Alexander apparently has other ideas.
“Daniel, come here.”
“I need to wash.”
“Daniel!”
Daniel actually stops, his body tensing, waiting for Alexander to lash out when he hears footsteps padding closer. Fingers grip his shoulders firmly, spinning him around, and he raises his hands to protect his face, hunching over slightly. Alexander immediately lets go of him, taking a step back with his palms open in surrender.
“I wasn’t going to hurt you, Daniel,” he says, sounding aghast that Daniel would even think it. “What has he done to make you like this?”
When Daniel realises he’s not about to be struck, he lowers his hands, peering at Alexander with wide eyes. He blinks and looks away, staring at the floor instead.
“It wasn’t just Herbert, Alexander. There aren’t very many men around out there with a lot of respect for others.”
“Herbert put you in the hospital, Daniel.”
“So have a lot of people.”
The expression on Alexander’s face hints that he wants names and addresses, so he can personally see to them, but instead Alexander moves closer, one hand slowly sliding around Daniel’s neck, fingers tangling in his hair gently. His thumb rubs his skin soothingly, but Daniel knows he must be able to feel his racing heartbeat.
“What did he say to you, Daniel?”
Daniel can’t bring himself to meet Alexander’s gaze, so he stares at his collarbone instead.
“He said I should make you forget about him.”
“Did he suggest how you should go about that?”
Daniel hiccoughs quietly, a panic attack looming nearby, but Alexander continues stroking his neck, grounding him.
“By giving you the best fuck you’ve ever had.”
“Did you try and follow his advice?”
Daniel’s laugh sounds slightly hysterical, and he covers his mouth to stop it from escaping.
“You tell me,” he says, thankful that Alexander grabs a hold of him as his knees give out, and gently lowers Daniel to the floor. “If I don’t pay off Herbert’s debt by giving you my body, he said he’ll put me back in the hospital.”
Alexander draws him closer and Daniel clings to his warmth, uncaring of what Alexander might think of him. Alexander flattens Daniel’s hair down and strokes a palm down his face.
“Daniel, I won’t let that happen. I’ll make him pay his debt.”
“Then he’ll tell me I failed and put me back where I belong.”
He pushes his face into Alexander’s chest, breathing in the scent that has become familiar to him, and it calms him just enough to keep breathing, not letting the anxiety take over.
“I’ll make him give me you, as well.” Daniel snorts quietly at the joke, but Alexander sits back and looks at him soberly. “I’m serious, Daniel.”
Daniel smiles bitterly.
“It doesn’t work like that. There’s always money involved.”
“Money isn’t an issue here.”
“I’m pretty sure what you’re talking about is slavery and I’m pretty sure it’s illegal.”
“But selling yourself to multiple people for money isn’t?”
Daniel sighs, conceding to the fair point, but he doesn’t let himself hope.
“He’ll never agree to it.”
With a finger under Daniel’s chin, Alexander tilts his head back until their eyes finally meet once more.
“Men like Herbert are easy to buy.”
Daniel stares at him, trying to read his expression, wondering what’s in it for him.
“Why would you help someone like me? I suppose I’d have to obey your every whim after. I’d be in your debt, after all.”
Alexander shrugs as if he hasn’t given it much thought.
“You can do whatever you want. Go home or live here; either way, it doesn’t matter.”
“How would I afford to live alone? My CV isn’t exactly screaming hire me.”
“I can pull some strings. You can start out in any entry-level job you want. Your past is as good as gone, if you want it to be.”
“Are you making a habit of saving rentboys?”
It slips out before he can stop it and his eyes widen when he realises what he’s given away. Alexander’s face goes surprisingly blank.
“What would you know about that?” he asks, voice dangerously low.
“I-it was Philip who told me, but it wasn’t his fault, I swear! Please don’t be angry with him. I didn’t exactly handle the call from Herbert well and he was there to comfort me. He actually suggested that I tell you and told me about Fowler to prove that you’re a good man.”
“Yet, you still kept it from me.”
Daniel touches Alexander’s shoulder lightly and looks into his eyes.
“I already knew you were a good man. I just didn’t want to burden you with my problems. Why should I make you fight my battles for me?”
“Daniel, no one deserves to be treated the way Herbert and his customers treat you. If I can fix your situation, I’m going to, with or without your approval, because no man should live in fear of others.”
Slowly, Alexander stands, holding out a hand for Daniel to take, which he eventually does, letting Alexander pull him up. With his hands on Daniel’s shoulders, he carefully guides him into the bathroom, turning on the shower and letting it warm up before encouraging Daniel under the spray. He follows after him and Daniel thinks about pointing out that he’s not entirely in the mood for another round, but Alexander doesn’t even glance down at his body, just squeezes body wash onto a sponge and begins scrubbing at Daniel’s skin. He doesn’t try to touch him inappropriately and doesn’t even watch when he hands the sponge to Daniel to let him clean the more intimate areas.
Daniel wonders idly if it’s what it would be like if he was finally treated like a human being and he can’t help but picture a life that’s free from Herbert and men who threaten to kill him when he doesn’t do what they want. He glances up at Alexander, who looks at him as if he already knows, and Daniel wonders what he’s done to deserve someone like him.
*
Alexander doesn’t leave him that night.
After rubbing him down with an oversized, fluffy towel in the bedroom, Alexander urges him under the covers and follows after, curling up behind him as though trying to ward off monsters under the bed. Daniel nestles back against him and shuts his eyes, trying to keep Herbert from his thoughts.
However, he wakes up in the middle of the night in a cold sweat, heart thundering from the nightmare he’d had where Herbert had found him and made him pay for not keeping his word. Alexander’s already awake, rubbing his back, and murmuring soothing words to calm him down. Daniel rolls over, tucking his head below Alexander’s chin and winding his arms around Alexander’s body.
“Don’t make me go back,” he whispers against Alexander’s neck, mouth grazing his warm skin, and Alexander pulls him closer.
“I’ll take care of it,” he promises and Daniel doesn’t remember falling back asleep, but there are no more dreams for the rest of the night and when he wakes in the morning, Alexander’s still there with him.
*
After breakfast, Alexander leaves for work with a quiet farewell and a gentle squeeze of Daniel’s shoulder.
Daniel sits and watches television for a few hours before he finally makes his way outside, where the sun is shining brightly and it feels like a true summer’s day. He flops onto the grass, clutching a book he’d found in the library, and begins reading, waiting for Alexander to return. The heat becomes oppressive sometime in the early afternoon when Philip brings out a sandwich and a glass of Pimms for him and he ends up slipping out of his shirt to cool off.
“Mind you don’t burn, sir” Philip says as he sets the plate down and hands Daniel the drink. Daniel takes a small sip and then sets it aside.
“I’ll move into the shade in a little while. It’s just nice to finally feel some warmth.” Philip nods and begins to turn away, but Daniel calls him back quickly. “Philip. I-I just wanted to thank you for your suggestion yesterday.”
“You told him then?”
“Yeah, he said he’d try and help.”
“I’m glad, Daniel. God knows you deserve some kindness.”
Daniel watches him as he makes his way back into the house and then rolls over and begins eating lunch.
*
Alexander comes home around six in the evening when the sun is low and Daniel is in fact rather sunburnt. He’s laying face-down on one of the settees, his back too painful to rest on, and he hears footsteps and a tut from the doorway.
“Did you forget to put on suntan lotion?”
Daniel groans quietly and turns his head to look at him.
“I didn’t think I’d get that burnt. I even laid in the shade for most of the time.”
“I’m sure we have something for that. Don’t move.”
Daniel dozes while Alexander’s gone, but startles away at the feeling of something cold dripping onto his back.
“Gah! What’s that?” he complains, trying to slide away, but Alexander pins him with one hand, while the other rubs the substance into the skin on his back.
“Aloe vera,” Alexander explains, dripping more across his shoulders and down to the small of his back. “It should stop the burning.”
Daniel lets out a quiet moan as the gel does just that, finally offering him a reprieve, and he slumps bonelessly against the cushions below.
“Oh my god,” he mumbles. “You’re a blessing.”
“Be glad that I’m even doing this, Daniel. You should know better than to lie in the sun, especially with your pale complexion.”
“If this is the outcome every time, it’ll be well worth it.” Alexander presses down on his back a little harder than necessary and Daniel hisses before he laughs. “Alright, alright; I’ve learnt my lesson.”
Alexander sighs and finishes rubbing the cooling gel onto his skin and afterwards disappears for a few moments - Daniel guesses it’s so he can wash his hands - and Daniel sits up to make room for him on the seat when he returns, looking rather exhausted.
“How was your day?” he asks, turning sideways so he doesn’t get aloe vera everywhere and Alexander scoops his legs up and drapes them over his thighs, holding them in place even when Daniel complains and tries to draw them back.
“It was dull,” he replies, pushing the material of Daniel’s trousers up as he rubs at his shins.
“Hmm, that’s no good.” Daniel shifts forward, sliding sideways into Alexander’s lap, and tugs gently at his tie. “I think I have an idea on how to improve it.”
Alexander’s expression doesn’t change, not even when Daniel leans in and brushes their mouths together softly, but his grip does tighten slightly on Daniel’s legs. Daniel keeps it slow and gentle, repeatedly pressing his lips to Alexander’s, enjoying the way Alexander’s mouth opens expectantly every time. It’s just when he parts his own lips and tugs Alexander closer, a second away from licking into his mouth, that Philip knocks on the doorframe and clears his throat.
Daniel pulls away guiltily, sliding off of Alexander’s lap and sitting on the settee cushion once more; Alexander doesn’t even seem to blink.
“Sorry to interrupt, sir, but dinner is served.”
“Thank you, Philip,” Alexander replies smoothly and Philip vanishes once more. Daniel stands and finds his shirt, knowing he can’t sit at the table without it. With a hiss of disgust, Daniel pulls it back on, the material sticking wetly where the lotion clings to his skin, and when he turns back, Alexander has already left the room.
*
The rest of the night is a quiet affair and when Daniel falls asleep with a book in his hands for the third time, Alexander gently slides it from his grasp and nudges him awake.
“Time for bed,” he says, and Daniel stands and follows him tiredly upstairs without a word. Alexander leads him to his own room, shutting the door behind them, and catching Daniel around the waist to tug his shirt off. Daniel mumbles sleepily, wondering if Alexander wants more from him because he’s almost sure he doesn’t have the energy. However, Alexander just helps him out of his clothes and directs him towards the bed, where Daniel flops face-first onto the mattress, allowing Alexander to tug the sheets up over his body.
He feels the slight shift as Alexander crawls in beside him, but then promptly dozes off.
*
He wakes when the moon is still high in the sky outside and he feels as though he’s on fire. He pushes the covers down, knowing it’s the sunburn that’s making him overheat, but even the coolness of the room isn’t enough to help. He lies there hopelessly for a few minutes before he realises it isn’t helping.
He slips from the bed and heads for the open window across the room, but even the outside air feels muggy and hot. He leans outside, the gentle breeze ruffling his hair, but his back hums with heat and he knows he needs to cool off quickly. He thinks briefly about waking Alexander to put more aloe vera on his skin, but when he glances over, Alexander looks far too comfortable to disturb, his face soft and relaxed in sleep.
Grabbing a robe from the bathroom, he quietly makes his way out of the room and down the hallway, thankful that the moonlight is bright enough to guide his way. Carefully, he wanders down the stairs and through the conservatory to the door leading outside. He unlocks it with a gentle click and steps out into the night, breathing deeply. The pool lights glow softly, making the water seem clearer and far too inviting for Daniel not to dip one bare foot in. He expects it to be shockingly cold, but apparently Alexander can afford to keep it heated because the water is lukewarm and perfect.
For a brief moment, he glances around, heart thumping madly at the thought of skinny-dipping, but he can’t even see another light in any direction and he’s thankful for the privacy. He slips the robe off and shimmies out of his underwear, hugging himself self-consciously, understanding that it’s not the best idea he’s ever had before, but no one will ever know.
He almost believes he can hear the hiss of his skin meeting the cooler water as he steps in up to his calves and he knows it will feel like bliss on his back. Slowly, he walks down the stairs, wading further into the pool, until it’s up to his chest and there’s nowhere for him to go except into the deep end. He sighs in pleasure as it soothes his thrumming body and he tips his head back, wetting his hair and letting it lay pleasantly on his neck. Without another thought, he dips underwater, holding his breath and listening to the silence, wishing that he could stay there and forget about everything. When he resurfaces, he wipes the water from his eyes and floats on his back, looking up at the stars above and letting his skin cool off.
He almost breathes in a mouthful of water when the click of the door takes him by surprise. He stands, wondering if it’s too late to hide from whoever it is, but realises he doesn’t need to when Alexander steps onto the patio, wearing a worn t-shirt and a pair of boxers, carrying a towel in one hand.
“I thought you might need this,” he says when he notices Daniel staring and Daniel swims to the edge of the pool, resting his chin on the cool concrete. A thousand thoughts fill his mind and he doesn’t know whether he should apologise for waking him or using his pool without permission. “Was it your back?”
Daniel blinks, wondering if Alexander actually is omniscient, and then nods dumbly.
“I wasn’t planning on swimming, but it’s just cool enough to help.”
Alexander drapes the towel over the end of a sun-lounger and then reaches for the hem of his shirt, Daniel watching, his eyes widening in surprise.
“Y-you’re coming in?” he asks even as Alexander pulls the clothing over his head and drops it next to the towel. Alexander shrugs before reaching for his boxers.
“It’s a nice night; why not?”
His underwear slides to his ankles and Daniel can’t help but look, knowing he’s seen it all before, but not like this, bathed in moonlight in the calm of the night. He follows Alexander with his gaze, watching him make his way to the steps to slowly descend into the water. Alexander hisses quietly and shoots a look at Daniel.
“This is colder than I thought it would be.”
Daniel smiles and swims towards him until he can finally touch the floor.
“It must be the sunburn keeping me warm.”
“I guess I’ll have to find my own heat source.”
Daniel snorts and for the first time in his life, it doesn’t feel at all like a chore to wade closer to Alexander, slide his arms around his shoulders, and drag him down into a kiss. Alexander responds immediately, opening his mouth against Daniel’s and deepening the contact. With the water giving him extra buoyancy, he wraps his legs around Alexander’s waist, pulling himself up, while Alexander’s hands drop to his buttocks, holding him tightly.
“Warm enough for you?” he mumbles in between kisses and Alexander carries him to the steps, setting him on the second stair down, where the water reaches just above Daniel’s navel. Daniel spreads his legs to accommodate Alexander’s body and tugs him closer. He can feel the heat of Alexander’s skin even underwater and Alexander holds his hips and ruts forward, drawing a moan from Daniel. “I thought I came out here to cool off.”
Alexander nips at Daniel’s bottom lip and pulls back to look at him.
“You started this; I’m just ending it.”
“As long as it’s a happy ending,” Daniel retorts, shifting against him and whining low in his throat as their cocks drag together. With his nails digging into Alexander’s back, Daniel repeats the motion and bites Alexander’s throat gently. “Look what you do to me. You’re like a drug.”
Alexander apparently has no qualms with that because he thrusts against Daniel’s body as if he’s just as far gone. Daniel dips his arm under the water, taking them both in hand and stroking quickly, messing up Alexander’s rhythm and making them both pant in the quiet of the night.
“I don’t think we should make a mess of the water,” Alexander says rationally, as he scoops Daniel up and sets him on the side of the pool instead. “Philip has enough issues.”
Daniel laughs against Alexander’s shoulder and clings to him as they rock together slowly, building up momentum.
“I think he deserves a raise.”
“I don’t think you know how much he gets paid to begin with.”
Daniel gasps at a particularly good thrust and digs his teeth into the skin under his mouth before replying.
“Perhaps I should be working for you after all.”
“I promise I wouldn’t make you perform grunt work,” he teases and Daniel bites him harder.
“I could be your professional dresser. Or perhaps undresser.”
“It would have to be the latter since you can’t knot a tie.”
Daniel moans, not even caring about Alexander’s quip as his cock nudges into the hollow of Alexander’s hip and he finds himself on the brink of orgasm.
“I think I’d be okay with whatever you gave me,” he gasps out and Alexander smirks at him.
“What about a good fuck?”
Daniel tenses, his breath stuttering as he comes across Alexander’s stomach and he feels the rumble of Alexander’s laugh vibrating through their bodies.
“I guess that’s my answer,” he says and Daniel tightens his grip on his cock, just to spite him. He twists his wrist and rubs just under the head of his erection, making Alexander jolt forwards at the touch and before he even knows it, Alexander’s following suit, breathing hard against his neck as he rolls his hips through the pleasure.
“What were you saying?” Daniel teases, but it doesn’t quite have the same effect when he’s gasping for air and rocking his hips into Alexander’s, slowing coming down from his high.
Eventually, Alexander leans back, pressing a gentle kiss to his lips before drawing away.
“I’m thankfully not cold anymore; however, my fingers are rather prune-like.”
He holds his hand up for Daniel to see and Daniel catches his wrist and brings his fingertips up to his mouth.
“I suppose that means it’s time to go back to bed.”
Alexander slowly drags himself out of the pool, stooping to pick up the towel to drape it over Daniel’s shoulders.
“Are midnight swims part of your normal routine?”
Daniel pushes himself to his feet and dries himself off, careful of his sore back.
“I don’t remember the last time I went swimming, actually.”
“Would it have to be written into your work contract that you need free reign of the pool during odd hours?”
“I’m sure we could work something out, however, we will have to discuss it in the morning, because I’m not in the right mindset to think.”
Alexander pulls his clothes on without even drying off and when he places his palm on the small of Daniel’s back and leads them towards the house, Daniel turns in his grip and halts him with a hand on his chest. Alexander stares silently down at him and Daniel truly doesn’t know what he wants to say.
Instead, he trails his fingers along Alexander’s jaw and pulls him into a kiss, which Alexander responds to gently, tongue slow and soft against Daniel’s own. He doesn’t know how and he doesn’t know when, but he’s almost sure that Alexander’s found his way under his skin without realising it and he has no idea how to get him out.
*
When Daniel comes downstairs the next morning feeling refreshed and content, the first thing he notices is the pile of boxes in the corner by the front door, which is wide open, revealing Philip and Alexander as they both carry more things back towards the house.
“What’s all this?” he asks, nudging a box with his foot, but that’s before he notices what Alexander’s carrying. “Is that my television?”
Alexander steps around him, placing the small TV on the ground with everything else.
“Your flat should be condemned,” he says instead of an explanation and Daniel folds his arms.
“What the fuck is going on?”
Alexander finally stops and turns towards him, looking faintly shocked that Daniel’s raised his voice. He clears his throat and waits until Philip is back outside before speaking.
“One or two of Herbert’s friends might be looking for you.”
“What? How do you know? Does that mean I can’t go back home?”
“It turns out Herbert’s been up to some shady business on the side of even more shady business. I might have informed an officer of the law of his whereabouts because it seems he’s a bit of a wanted man.”
“You what?” Daniel asks, not quite believe what he’s hearing.
“Herbert can’t make you do anything when he’s in prison, can he?”
“What about his men?”
“I might be able to convince them to change loyalties, but until I get the opportunity to meet with them, you’ll need to stay here for safety.”
Daniel blinks slowly, his mind racing at a million thoughts per second.
“So Herbert’s gone?”
“Unless by some miracle he’s found innocent, he’ll be spending the next five or six years off the streets.”
Daniel can’t process it all and he ends up sitting heavily on top of one of the boxes.
“So I - ” he begins before falling silent as his brain catches up. “So I don’t have to go back?”
“You said you didn’t want to.”
Daniel nods, feeling rather stunned.
“I don’t. I just never believed it would ever happen, though.”
Alexander tucks a loose strand of hair behind Daniel’s ear.
“I can find you another flat if you’d like, else the guestroom will remain open to you for as long as you need.”
“Just until I get another job, right?”
“Whatever you wish, Daniel; it’s your decision.”
Daniel stands and, without thinking, winds his arms around Alexander waist, drawing him into a firm hug. It’s not much of an offering, but it’s all he has and Alexander’s hands come up to rest along his spine, holding him just as tightly. For the first time in his life, there’s no overhanging dread or panic and being wrapped up in Alexander’s arms feels as though it’s the beginning of his second chance at life and he’s going to do it right this time.
With one final squeeze, he draws away and looks up at Alexander.
“Thank you,” he says and Alexander shoots him a small smile.
“You’re welcome. Now, go help Philip before I change my mind.”
Daniel laughs, but steps outside with a grin on his face and warmth in his heart.
*
Epilogue:
“Oh god, he’s back,” Daniel murmurs, turning his back to the door to try to hide himself from view. The man who’s just walked in to the shop slowly glances around and Daniel feels his heavy gaze, knowing he’s been caught.
“That trick won’t work on me,” he says making his way over to Daniel, who turns to finally face him.
“It won’t stop me from trying,” he says as fingers find their way to his hips. “Are you here to be professionally undressed again?”
Alexander smirks and backs Daniel up against the nearest wall, looming over him and beginning to lean in, presumably for a kiss, but before their lips meet, Jones steps out of the backroom and sighs exaggeratedly.
“Mr Brennenburg, I do wish you’d stop harassing my employees.”
Alexander breathes out, meeting Daniel’s gaze from close up, looking comically disappointed at being disrupted.
“It’s Friday, Jones; we have this conversation every week.”
“And I keep hoping that perhaps one day you’ll finally listen.”
Alexander looks sideways at him and Daniel smoothes his hands down Alexander’s sides.
“Jones? Is it okay?” he asks and Jones rolls his eyes teasingly.
“Could I ever stop you?”
“No,” Alexander supplies unhelpfully, and Daniel pinches his hip lightly.
“You know what he’s like,” Daniel reasons and Jones looks up with another sigh.
“Fine, but only because I know otherwise he’ll drag you into the dressing room and ruin my life and possibly my sanity.”
Daniel tries to hide his smile and fails.
“Go get your coat,” Alexander murmurs quietly against his cheek before raising his voice for Jones to hear. “I’ll wait for you outside where the atmosphere is much more inviting and far less spiky.”
Jones lets out a cough that sounds suspiciously like a curse and Daniel laughs and slips from Alexander’s grasp to go and collect his things.
“Red’s trousers still need hemming and Clarence dropped off a new jacket this morning, so that should be bumped to top priority,” Daniel says as he clocks out beside Jones. Jones makes a quick note on their agenda and shoots a smile over his shoulder.
“Cheers. Have a good weekend, Daniel. Which one are you two going to this time?”
“Alexander hasn’t said, but I’m thinking it’ll probably be Chariots of Fire, since I think it’s the only one we haven’t seen yet.”
Jones chuckles quietly.
“He spoils you completely.”
“Only when it comes to theatre.”
“That’s the biggest lie I’ve ever heard. I know for a fact he spoils you with everything.”
Daniel concedes with a laugh and pulls his coat on.
“He likes it; I’m not going to complain.”
“I’m sure you won’t,” he replies with a wink. “Go on; get out of here before he accuses me of holding you hostage.”
Daniel pats him lightly on the shoulder and heads for the door. Just as he reaches for the handle, however, Jones speaks again.
“I knew he wasn’t your uncle when you first came in here,” he says and Daniel flushes and turns to look at him. It’s been almost half a year since the debacle happened and he’d almost forgotten. “He’s good for you, though, and as long as he keeps you happy, I know I won’t have to break his hands.”
Daniel lets out a sharp laugh.
“Goodnight, Jones.”
“Yeah, yeah,” he hears as he steps from the store, shutting the door quietly behind him, and he has a hard time keeping the smile off his face.
He finds Alexander leaning against the car, waiting for him patiently.
“Ready?” he asks, holding two tickets up. Daniel notices the name on them and can’t help but snort.
“I told Jones it would be Chariots of Fire. You’re losing your touch, old man.”
Alexander opens the car door and narrows his eyes in jest.
“Get in before I leave you here.”
*
When they finally stumble through the front door of Alexander’s home after the play, Daniel wraps an arm around Alexander’s waist tiredly, using him to pull him up the stairs and down the hallway.
As they step into the bedroom, Alexander flicks on the light and lets out a disgruntled noise, allowing Daniel to step away.
“How can one person make so much mess?” he complains, stepping over two of Daniel’s shirts on the floor.
“I’m entirely certain that you dropped at least one of those there this morning with the exact words of, ‘that will look better on my floor’. Or have you forgotten?”
Alexander shoots him a look.
“How have you managed to take over so much space? I seem to remember someone telling me they’d move out as soon as they found a job, except I’m sure you started working with Jones about five months ago and yet you’re still here.”
“If you want me to leave, you only have to say.”
Alexander hums as though thinking.
“And if I don’t?”
Daniel tangles his arms around Alexander’s neck and tugs him down closer.
“Then shut up.” He smiles as Alexander closes the final distance between them, dropping a quick kiss to his lips, and Daniel tightens his hold. “You wouldn’t be able to get rid of me even if you wanted to. You’re stuck with me now.”
Alexander sighs in mock-disappointment and slowly begins to back Daniel towards the bed.
“Terrible. Awful. Couldn’t think of anything worse,” he murmurs and Daniel doesn’t believe a word as he pulls him down and keeps him quiet.
*
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