With A Little Help From My Friends
Title: With A Little Help From My Friends - 30/47
Author: dylan_dufresne
Pairing: BB/DM
Rating: NC-17
Summary: Fulfilling a dream, romantic indulgences, a welcome visit, and a return home.
Feedback: Would be greatly appreciated as it’s my drug of choice. Many thanks to my beta, frojane.
Special Thanks: To loki_girl for the exquisite banner that she has created, and to tarnishedhalo for loaning me her inspirational manip for the centerpiece. I am so thankful and appreciative of you both, and your generosity.
Disclaimer: Not at all true in reality. This is my imagination at work.
Previous Chapters: 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 15 | 16 | 17 | 18 | 19 | 20 | 21 | 22 | 23 | 24 | 25 | 26 | 27 | 28 | 29
Chapter 30
Slowly rising to consciousness from the depths of a peaceful sleep, Billy shifts and burrows into the warmth in front of him, arm tightening around Dom’s waist as he tucks his knees into the back of Dom’s thighs. A sleepy sigh pushes past Billy’s lips, and he smiles at the sensation of his lover’s bare skin pressed against him, the younger man’s hand wrapped possessively around his forearm to keep him close.
The slow, measured breaths inform Billy that Dom is still fast asleep, and the idea of waking Dom with pleasure causes heat to pool in his belly. Billy presses feathery kisses to the nape of Dom’s neck, and he begins to slowly pet his lover’s treasure trail with the tips of his fingers as his arousal starts to harden against the tantalizing curve of Dom’s arse.
A murmur of pleasure flows past Dom’s parted lips, along with a breathy sigh, and when he begins slowly rocking his hips against Billy’s erection, the older man has to swallow a ragged groan. The hand not holding Billy’s arm travels back across the coverlet, coming to rest on Billy’s hip as Dom arches his back.
“Don’t stop,” Dom murmurs sleepily. “Feels good.”
“Want more?” Billy breathes across his ear, smiling when the words elicit a shiver.
In reply, Dom shifts his body until they’re face to face, his dark eyes half-lidded and drowsy with passion, a long leg wrapping around Billy’s waist.
“C’mere,” he rasps. “Want you.”
All too happy to oblige his lover, Billy captures Dom’s waiting mouth in a tender kiss as he rolls them over, and slides between Dom’s thighs. Billy starts to trail kisses down Dom’s neck, to ensure maximum pleasure, only to be surprised when Dom tugs him higher.
“Dommie-”
“Need you,” Dom whispers. “Inside.”
When their mouths come together again, the hunger for one another seems to have grown exponentially, tongues tangling wetly as hands eagerly explore bare skin. Billy doesn’t remember reaching for the tube of lubricant on the night stand, but knows that he’s used it when their bodies slide together intimately, warm and slick. At Dom’s encouragement, he tugs a hand under Dom’s left thigh to guide a long leg over his shoulder, intensifying the stretch, and Billy’s senses are overwhelmed by the image of his lover writhing beneath him, wantonly begging for more.
Pumping his hips in a seductive rhythm and repeatedly stroking the tiny bundle of nerves inside Dom, Billy watches the younger man writhe in ecstasy, and he increases his speed until Dom’s loud cry of completion, hot pulses of his release slicking their stomachs. As Dom comes back to himself, murmurs of encouragement tumble from his lips, and it’s only a few moments later that he’s being filled with Billy’s intimate warmth. Knowing that Dom prefers to stay joined for as long as possible, Billy carefully rolls them onto their sides as they cling to one another, hot breath mingling and hearts pounding.
“Never get tired of waking up with your hands on me,” Dom sighs, pressing a kiss to the side of Billy’s damp neck. “Or you inside me.”
“Good. I thought it would be a nice way to start our honeymoon,” Billy replies quietly, stroking Dom’s back from shoulders to hips.
“I thought that didn’t start until tonight. Officially,” Dom comments, tipping up his chin to meet Billy’s sated gaze. “When we arrive at our first destination, wherever it may be.”
“I’m not telling you,” Billy says, shaking his head and smiling playfully. “It’s a surprise.”
“I already know that we’re going to Glasgow,” Dom tells him, attempting to bring Billy around to his way of thinking. “Why all the secrecy?”
“Because I love watching your big beautiful eyes when I give you something that you’re not expecting,” Billy explains fondly. “Like the first night of our vacation in London, when we went to dinner.”
“That did work out rather well,” Dom admits with a blush, recalling the intimate evening. “Didn’t it?”
Billy grins. “I thought so.”
“Okay. I’ll stop asking for hints.”
For a long moment, Billy gazes intently at Dom’s rosy mouth, and then traces the pouty curve of his lower lip with the tip of his finger.
“What?” Dom asks, unable to decipher the tangle of emotions in his lover’s eyes.
“I never knew I could be this happy,” Billy tells him, almost reverently. “I can’t wait to start our life together, and put that ring on your finger with a promise of forever.”
Dom’s expressive eyes glisten and he bites down on his lower lip as he struggles to form an adequate response. “Bills-”
Cutting off Dom’s words, Billy guides their lips together for an achingly gentle kiss, his arms gathering the younger man close, and then rolling them until Dom is flat on his back. The intimate contact continues until Dom is limp beneath him, mewling softly at the pleasure he cannot contain, and then Billy finally lifts his head to break the kiss.
“Make sure you’re all packed before your appointment this afternoon,” Billy tells him, sliding his index finger back and forth across Dom’s collarbone and smiling at the raspy intake of breath it elicits. “As soon as you get home, we’ll get on the road.”
“If you want to leave earlier, I can just cancel-”
“You don’t have to do that, Dommie,” Billy interrupts. “I’ve already arranged for a late check in. We’ll have plenty of time.”
“Okay then.”
“You know, if you’ve changed your mind about your hair, you don’t have to do it,” Billy adds, shifting his gaze to the silky, tousled strands of dark blonde. “It’s your hair, love.”
“I want to,” Dom replies, his long fingers sliding across his lover’s bare back. “Honest.”
“Do you want me to come with you?” Billy asks gently as he tips his head to one side. “I will. I don’t mind.”
“It’ll be fine, Bills,” Dom tells him with a smile. “It just won’t be the same, is all. You’ve been cutting my hair for two years. I know your touch better than my own. I’m going to miss it.”
Swallowing a groan, Billy captures Dom’s soft mouth in a lingering kiss, his arm sliding around Dom’s slender body and small hand resting at the small of his back.
“I’ll make you a promise,” Billy murmurs when their lips part, rubbing their noses together affectionately. “No matter who cuts your hair, I’ll never stop touching you.”
“Bills,” Dom sighs, his expression soft and intimate. “You keep talking like that and I’m never going to make it out of bed, let alone take a shower before I have to go.”
“Mmm. A shower,” Billy almost purrs. “Do you want some company?”
Dom smiles mischievously. “Always.”
“Then let’s go,” Billy announces, withdrawing and flipping back the coverlet before rising to his feet. “I wouldn’t want you to miss your appointment.”
Taking his lover’s outstretched hand, Dom stands and curls into Billy’s welcoming embrace, kissing his neck while they sway back and forth, quiet and comfortable.
“I love how I feel when you’re holding me,” Dom murmurs under his breath, slowly petting Billy’s mussed hair. “Your body pressed against mine, with nothing else to get in the way.”
“I’ll remember that,” Billy replies, guiding their mouths together for a soft kiss.
“Good.”
Dom bursts out laughing when Billy lifts him off the floor and carries him into the loo, moaning with pleasure as he’s guided under the warm spray, Billy’s cherubic mouth exploring his neck.
~ * ~ * ~ * ~ * ~
Shifting in the passenger seat, Dom swallows and licks his lips as he looks over to watch Billy’s profile.
“Okay, so I lied,” he announces. “Do I get a hint?”
Billy chuckles as he glances in the rearview mirror, then the side mirror before changing lanes, taking the exit off of the M6 onto the M62.
“I love you, Dommie,” he says fondly. “Don’t ever change.”
“You’re changing the subject,” Dom retorts. “I’m only asking for a hint.”
“Did I mention that I love your hair?” Billy inquires, trying desperately to hide a smile. “The blonde really suits you.”
“Bills, I walked into the shop and your hands were all over me,” Dom points out. “We almost had sex right there on the stairs.”
“I didn’t hear you complaining,” Billy points out. “As I recall, you’re the one who tried to open my trousers.”
“After you dragged me into the office and pinned me against the wall,” Dom nearly purrs. “You were as hard as a rock.”
“Couldn’t help myself,” Billy says softly. “You’re gorgeous.”
“I love you, too,” Dom replies quietly. “By the way.”
Briefly glancing away from the road so their eyes meet, Billy reaches over to lace their fingers together. He then refocuses his attention on his driving, leaving his hand resting on Dom’s thigh.
“Clue,” he says a few moments later, nodding at a navigation sign along the edge of the road.
Dom looks up just in time to catch one word as the car passes by, and he lets out a squeak of surprise, his eyes wide and mouth open as his head spins around so he can stare at Billy in wonder.
“Are we-”
Squeezing his lover’s hand, Billy smiles. “I thought you wouldn’t mind spending a couple of days or so in Liverpool. Check out the sights and whatnot.”
“Bills.” Excess moisture fills Dom’s expressive eyes as he clings to Billy’s hand, his breathing ragged. “You know-”
“That Liverpool is the birthplace of the Beatles?” Billy prompts, lifting his arm to slide it around Dom’s shoulders and guiding the younger man closer. “That it’s the place to visit for all that you could ever want to know about the Fab Four?”
“Yeah,” Dom says with a shaky nod. “That.”
“Aye, I read something like that somewhere.”
A long moment passes in silence as Dom attempts to absorb the revelation. Finally, he swallows hard, scrubs a hand over his face, and replies, “I don’t know what to say.”
Billy rubs his cheek against Dom’s silky blonde hair and then kisses his forehead, careful to keep his eyes on the road. “You can tell me if I made the right choice or not. I thought it would be something that you’d like, but if not-”
“Are you bloody mad? It’s incredible. I can’t believe you did this for me,” Dom muses aloud. “Are you sure this is how you want to spend our honeymoon? Even part of it?”
“Dommie, I’ve shared a flat with you for over a year and a half,” Billy replies gently, rubbing Dom’s bicep in a soothing rhythm. “You listen to their music every single day. When you’re happy, or when you’re sad. You love it, and it’s a part of you. You even have it tattooed on your body.”
“But just because I love it-”
“I love making you happy, and I had a great time in London, playing tourist with you,” Billy interjects. “I’m looking forward to learning more about something that is so important to you.”
“We’re still going to Glasgow, yeah?” Dom inquires, suddenly worried. “I’ve been reading travel books about Scotland for months now. This isn’t going to change that, is it?”
“Of course not, love,” Billy assures him. “I thought we could spend a few days here, and then I could return the favor by showing you what I love about Scotland.”
“Sounds perfect.”
“I need to move my hand, Dommie,” Billy says reluctantly. “We’ve not too much longer to go.”
“I thought it was further to Liverpool,” Dom murmurs, his brow furrowing.
“It is, actually, but I booked us a room on the edge of the city, and thought we could drive into the thick of things in the morning,” Billy explains as Dom shifts in his seat so he can place both hands on the wheel again. “I thought a smaller place would be nice, especially for our first night. Something with personal touches instead of a box with a bed.”
“I’m sure it’s lovely, Bills,” Dom says tenderly. “Thank you.”
“I haven’t done anything yet, love,” Billy protests, his cheeks flushing.
Smiling, Dom’s long fingers touch Billy’s knee, then slide up to rest on his thigh. “You know that’s not true.”
“Are you flirting with me, Dommie?” Billy teases, knowing that very soon they’ll be in a private location where he can indulge in his urges and lavish pleasure on the man he loves.
“C’mon, Bills. You know you’re getting lucky tonight, yeah?” Dom asks with a giggle.
“Oh am I?” Billy wonders aloud, his eyes wide with innocence.
“Definitely.”
~ * ~ * ~ * ~ * ~
A short while later, Billy makes a series of turns and then pulls the car to a stop in front of a quaint looking building, one that doesn’t look like any hotel that Dom’s ever seen. His eyes are full of question as he steps out of the vehicle and moves over to the boot to retrieve their suitcases, and Billy smiles as he joins him.
“Is this a Bed and Breakfast?” Dom asks. “I thought it would be smaller.”
“Actually, it’s a family run hotel,” Billy explains. “According to their advertisements. It’s been passed down from father to son, where they say they prefer less people, so it’s a homier feel for their guests.”
“It looks nice, Bills.”
With their bags in hand, Billy leads the way inside and over to the front desk, waiting until Dom is beside him so they can hold hands.
“Good evening,” the young woman behind the desk chirps with a friendly smile. “Checking in?”
“Aye, we are. The reservation is under the name Boyd,” Billy tells her. “The honeymoon suite.”
The gentle squeeze to his hand and the warm look that Billy directs at Dom causes him to blush and duck his head. A moment later he’s drawn closer to Billy, and a strong arm slides around his waist to cup his hip.
“Yes, I have it right here, Mr. Boyd,” the clerk replies with a nod, pulling up the appropriate screen on her computer. “Your room is ready, and we’ve also had your special requests taken care of.”
“Thank you.”
The woman opens a drawer and pulls out their room key while several sheets of paper roll off the printer behind her, and Billy releases Dom just long enough to sign them. As Billy accepts the proffered key, Dom starts to reach down to grab his suitcase, but just then a young man appears and scoops up both pieces of luggage.
“My name is Sarah, and this is my brother Geoffrey,” the desk clerk continues. “He’ll take good care of you.”
“If you’ll follow me, I’ll show you to your room,” Geoffrey requests, moving over to the staircase that leads to the level above.
“Enjoy your stay,” Sarah adds in closing. “And your room service will arrive shortly.”
“Thank you,” Billy replies before taking Dom’s hand and turning to follow the bellhop upstairs.
“The honeymoon suite?” Dom murmurs under his breath, shaking his head in wonder as they climb the flight of stairs. “Bills-”
“What?” Billy asks impishly, leaning in to press a quick kiss Dom’s cheek. “It is our honeymoon, is it not?”
“Yeah, but-”
“No buts.”
“Thank you,” Dom says softly.
“Does this qualify as a first?” Billy asks quietly as they reach the landing and he shifts to bring their bodies closer.
“Yes.”
“Then I look forward to reading about it later,” Billy murmurs hotly in Dom’s ear. “Every last detail.”
Dom’s eyes are dark with arousal, and he can’t speak as the bellhop arrives at their room. Refusing to let go of Dom unless it’s absolutely necessary, Billy opens the door one-handed and allows Geoffrey to enter first. A moment later a light is switched on, and the room is lit in a soft, romantic glow.
“Enjoy your stay,” Geoffrey says quietly, unobtrusively backing out of the room, pausing when Billy gestures for him to wait. “Yes, sir?”
A folded bill is pressed into the younger man’s hand, and Billy smiles. “Thank you, Geoffrey.”
The generous tip is quickly tucked into the bellhop’s pocket, and he nods his thanks.
“Have a good night.”
The door closes with a soft click, and then the couple are alone.
“Do you like it?” Billy asks softly, sliding his arms around Dom’s waist and resting his chin on the younger man’s shoulder as they take in their surroundings.
“I do.”
“Mmm. I like hearing you say those words,” Billy muses, tipping his head and pressing a lingering kiss to the fluttering pulse in Dom’s neck.
Before Billy can say another word, Dom is turning in his embrace and bringing their mouths together in a long, lusty kiss, lips parting and tongues tangling. Moaning into the contact, Billy keeps his eyes open long enough to move them safely over to the bed, and then he surrenders to the sensation as they sink down onto the softness. Shoes have been discarded, Dom’s t-shirt has been pulled up to expose his flat stomach, and Billy’s shirt opened and shoved down to his elbows when there is a knock at the door, eliciting a moan from the younger man.
“Hold that thought, Dommie,” Billy murmurs soothingly as he withdraws and refastens the buttons of his now rumpled shirt.
“Would rather hold you,” Dom retorts, rolling onto his belly to hide his prominent erection.
Thankful that his shirttails hide the evidence of his arousal, Billy smiles at Dom and then opens the door, beckoning the person to enter.
“Thank you, Geoffrey. You can put the tray over there,” Billy tells him, gesturing to a nearby table.
Pushing himself up onto his elbows, Dow arches an eyebrow at the bottle of wine in a silver bucket, two champagne flutes and a bowl next to them, cruelly covered with a silver lid so he can’t see what it holds. It would seem that Billy has plenty of surprises up his sleeve for the first night of their honeymoon, and the hotel outside of Liverpool is only the beginning.
Another folded bill is pressed into Geoffrey’s hand, and Dom is grinning when Billy closes and locks the door after he leaves, ensuring that they won’t be interrupted.
“You do realize you just made his night, yeah?” Dom says as Billy walks over to the tray.
“I’m in a good mood, and I felt like sharing it,” Billy replies, lifting the lid off the bowl to inspect the contents, careful not to let Dom see. “He did a good job. He deserved something, and it helps make up for all the people who don’t appreciate what he does.”
“You’re a good man,” Dom says, gazing at Billy, his eyes soft and intimate. “And generous, in so many different ways.”
“Thank you.”
“No, thank you,” Dom corrects. “It was that generosity that started us on this path.”
Before Dom can request it, Billy picks up the tray and carries it over to the bed, setting it on the floor before he sinks down onto the mattress.
“Are you thirsty, love?” he asks softly.
“Yeah.”
Leaning down, Billy scoops up the bottle of wine, strips away the foil cover, steadies it between his knees, and then grins at the satisfying arc that the cork makes after it pops free. Dom scrambles up onto his knees and reaches over the edge of the bed to grab the glasses for Billy to pour the sparkling liquid into, and laughs when Billy decides to take advantage of the fact that his hands are occupied. Small hands deftly open the button and fly of Dom’s blue jeans and tug his t-shirt up his lithe body as Billy’s mouth captures Dom’s in a passionate kiss that quickly overwhelms his senses.
“Mmm-gonna spill,” Dom pants, his knees melting and body trembling. “Bills.”
Reluctantly, Billy breaks the contact and takes the glasses, his eyes twinkling. “Take your shirt off,” he murmurs hungrily.
Billy then turns and walks over to the night stand, depositing the glasses there for safekeeping, only to gasp when long arms slide around his waist and he feels Dom’s erection press against the curve of his arse.
“Dommie,” he groans raggedly.
In what feels like the blink of an eye, Billy’s shirt is open and being swiftly dragged down his arms, and once freed, he reaches back to touch Dom, only to discover that Dom removed more than his t-shirt. He’s completely starkers, lithe body shimmering with heat and arousal. Billy quickly spins around to face Dom, and then they are rolling back and forth across the spacious bed, eagerly tearing off the remainder of Billy’s clothing so they can touch, skin to skin.
Sprawled on his back, Dom tips his head back to offer his neck, and moans with wanton pleasure when he’s rewarded with a long trail of soft, sucking kisses down to the hollow of his throat. He opens his mouth as to inquire where the lube is, and then Billy halts his ministrations and pulls back.
“Where are you going?” Dom cries out in protest. “Come back here.”
“I almost forgot something,” Billy explains tenderly. “I’ll be right back. I promise.”
As Dom watches him, Billy slowly moves down to the foot of the bed before sliding off the mattress and reaching down to the tray sitting on the floor. A moment later, a silver bowl of chocolate dipped strawberries is cradled between Billy’s palms, held low, shielding his nudity.
“Are you hungry, love?” he rasps.
Wordlessly, Dom parts his rosy lips in invitation, and gives them a slow, seductive lick, making them glisten.
“Why don’t you come closer and find out,” Dom suggests, his dark eyes smoldering with heat.
Billy smiles before he takes Dom up on his offer, and then some.
At a luxurious pace, the chocolate and strawberries are shared, amid long, sensuous kisses and desire filled caresses. Bare skin glistens in the soft light, the heat from their bodies causing a sheen to form as two become one, Dom’s lithe form writhing with pleasure when he takes his lover in deep and begins to ride him. Propped up on several pillows, one of Billy’s small hands roams endlessly over Dom’s chest and abdomen as he watches the ecstasy wash over the younger man while his other hand strokes Dom’s leaking arousal in a devastatingly erotic rhythm. When a dusky pink nipple catches Billy’s eye, he leans forward and delicately laps at it with his pointy tongue several times, tasting the fruit of the wine, and then he draws the bud between his lips before sucking ravenously.
A ragged cry fills the air as glittering fluid slicks Billy’s heaving stomach, and at the sensation of Dom climaxing, his already taut muscles clenching tightly, Billy can’t hold back his release any longer. Lips meet in a breathless kiss, hot pulses filling Dom as he watches the fierce orgasm overtake the older man, and when he can’t hold himself up any longer, utterly spent, Dom curls forward and sinks into Billy’s waiting arms. Limp with exhaustion, he can barely summon the strength to smile as a breathy kiss is pressed to his damp neck.
“Did you enjoy that, love?” Billy murmurs, stroking Dom’s trembling back in lazy caresses.
“You’re taking the piss, yeah?” Dom replies, nuzzling into the side of Billy’s neck and sighing with contentment. “If this is any indication of what our sex life is going to be like, I’m starting to wish we’d chosen a nice Saturday in February instead of waiting this bloody long.”
Chuckling under his breath, Billy tightens his arms around the younger man and pets the damp hair at the nape of his slender neck.
“Oh, I love you, Dommie,” he says when he can speak. “I was actually talking about the wine and strawberries.”
“I never thought of food as sexy until I met you,” Dom tells him, then reluctantly shifts to let their bodies slip apart before sinking down and stretching out alongside his lover. “Among other things.”
Billy tugs the extra pillows out from behind him and tosses them aside, rolls over and gathers Dom close in a gently possessive embrace, letting his eyes drop closed. All too happy to be pressed against his lover, Dom snuggles in, his head tucked under Billy’s chin, cheek against his furry chest.
“Comfortable?” Billy asks drowsily, his hand coming to rest at the small of Dom’s back.
After a brief shiver, Dom stretches his arm out, grabs a handful of the coverlet and tugs it over their prone bodies to cover them, now that the sweat is beginning to cool.
“Yeah,” he replies, and then tries to stifle a yawn.
“Tired?”
“Completely knackered, thanks to all that shagging,” Dom says, smiling to himself. “Not that I’m complaining, of course.”
Billy chuckles. “Good to know.”
“I still can’t believe we’re in Liverpool,” Dom muses quietly. “I keep waiting to wake up from a dream.”
“S’not a dream, Dommie. It’s all real.”
“Is it weird that I can’t wait to wake up tomorrow?”
“Not at all,” Billy tells him. “As a matter of fact, I’m rather looking forward to waking you up.”
“Mmmm. Now I like the sound of that,” Dom teases, his heart fluttering at the idea of Billy coaxing him from sleep with his intimate touch.
“Then close your eyes, love,” Billy murmurs as he reaches over and switches out the light. “It’ll be morning before you know it.”
Sighing dreamily, Dom rolls over so they can spoon together, Billy’s arm draped across his waist, and in a matter of minutes, both are fast asleep.
~ * ~ * ~ * ~ * ~
The couple spend three full days in Liverpool, Dom waking each morning by Billy’s touch and indulging in a leisurely round of lovemaking before showering together. Eager to make the most of their time, they head out from their charming hotel directly after the morning meal, returning late each evening, and making love again before falling asleep in each others arms. Billy can’t help the smile that turns up the corners of his mouth at the sensation of his lover sprawled over him, having witnessed Dom almost delirious with joy as he revealed one surprise after another. Just when Dom thought it couldn’t get any better, Billy would do something to change his mind, yet again. While Dom used to be wary about showing affection in public, he’s begun to open up, holding hands with Billy and even sharing a hug from time to time. While enjoying some live music one night after dinner, he even snuggled into Billy’s side and rested his head on Billy’s shoulder.
It’s after a passionate evening and when they’re curled up under the coverlet that Billy offers to extend their stay in Liverpool, but Dom slowly shakes his head in reply. After a soft, lingering kiss, Dom explains that they’ve explored everything he’s ever dreamed of seeing and so much more. He’ll always treasure this time, and he’ll never forget the precious gift that Billy gave him. There’s no need to extend their stay, because it’s already perfect.
In the morning, they pack their suitcases and begin the next phase of their honeymoon, setting off for Manchester, where Aureen and Austin are expecting them for lunch. Billy isn’t surprised when the hum of the tires on the asphalt lull Dom off to sleep, and every so often he glances over at his sleeping lover, smiling fondly. Part of Billy wishes they’d slept in a little more this morning, but at the same time, wouldn’t give up the image of Dom climaxing around him for any amount of sleep.
Shortly before noon, Billy guides the car to the curb just down the street from the Monaghan house and after cutting the engine, quietly unfastens his seat belt and leans over.
“Dommie?” he murmurs gently, drawing Dom’s blonde hair off his forehead and pressing a feathery kiss to his slack lips. “Open your eyes.”
“Again, Bills?” Dom replies, still half asleep. “We’ve already done it twice today, you randy bugger.”
Billy chuckles under his breath. “That’s a tempting offer, love, but I think your Mum might not approve of us shagging in the car in broad daylight where her neighbors can see us.”
“What?” Yawning and scrubbing a hand over his face to clear away the cobwebs, Dom finally opens his eyes and looks around. “Did I fall asleep?”
“Aye. I think you’re a wee bit knackered from all the energy you’ve been expending of late,” Billy teases. “I suppose we should think about cutting it back.”
“Don’t. You. Dare,” Dom growls playfully, and then drags their mouths together for a hot, wet, tongue tangling kiss. “We’re on our honeymoon,” he adds breathlessly when they part. “Tradition says we’re supposed to be shagging like rabbits.”
Billy’s green eyes twinkle mischievously. “If you insist, then who am I to argue?”
”You’re crazy, Bills,” Dom says, smiling with contentment and then stretching as best as he can in the confined space.
“About you,” Billy adds. “Let’s get out of the car before your Mum starts to wonder where we are.”
“Good idea. Wouldn’t want her to worry,” Dom replies.
The couple are barely halfway up the concrete path to the house when the door opens and they’re greeted by Aureen’s smiling face.
“Right on time,” she offers in greeting. “It’s good to see you.”
“Hi Mum,” Dom says fondly before he’s enveloped in her arms, grinning as he presses a kiss to her cheek. “I’ve missed you.”
“You look lovely, Dominic,” she says, pulling back to meet his eyes. “You’ve changed your hair.”
“I hear blonde’s have more fun,” he teases. “Decided to give it a go.”
Billy hangs back a couple of steps, watching the interaction, until Aureen looks his way and then he waves.
“You’re looking well, Billy,” she says warmly. “How is the shop doing?”
“Business is just great,” he tells her. “How are you?”
“Busy, but very much looking forward to getting away for a few days for the wedding,” Aureen replies. “How was the drive?”
“Uneventful, just the way I like it.” Billy chuckles when Dom tugs him closer, their fingers lacing together. “Dom slept most of the way.”
Surprised at Billy’s words, Aureen glances at her watch. “Where did you drive from?”
“Billy had a surprise for me,” Dom answers, his tone soft and intimate as he gazes at the older man. “He took me to Liverpool.”
Realization dawns, and Aureen’s face lights up. “The birthplace of the Beatles. I don’t know why I’m even surprised.”
“I was,” Dom adds with a laugh. “He left me speechless.”
“Aye, you were,” Billy agrees. “We sent you a postcard. You’ll probably get it in a day or two.”
“Well, come inside and tell us all about your trip so far,” Aureen suggests, turning and leading the way inside. “Your father is in the kitchen and lunch should be almost ready.”
After deciding to eat outdoors in the back garden and enjoy the warm weather, Billy sits back and lets Dom tell his parents about all the places they visited, adding a detail here and there. Once they are done eating, Dom shifts his chair and snuggles into Billy’s side, one hand resting on Billy’s thigh while Billy’s arm slides around his shoulders. Their position is comfortable and relaxed, and Billy can’t help but marvel at the huge differences between this visit and the last one.
“So, did you have a favorite?” Aureen asks. “Of all the things you saw?”
“The Magical Mystery Tour was incredible,” Dom replies, letting himself fall into his memories for a few seconds. “But the exhibit at the Britannia Pavilion was great, too. Starting there and walking through the Merseyside Maritime Museum was the perfect way to start.”
“And you, Billy?” Austin prompts. “Any favorites?”
“We had dinner at the Cavern Club one night, and then heard some live music at the Cavern Pub across the street afterwards,” Billy says, after taking a moment to consider his answer. “There were some local bands in there, which was nice, but I think we had the most fun in the Beatles Shop.”
Dom almost groans in ecstasy at the recollection, and then blushes when his mother laughs.
“Liked that, did you, Dominic?” she teases gently.
“It was grand,” Dom says reverently. “We were in there for hours.”
“I hope you bought a couple of souvenirs,” Aureen says expectantly, looking back and forth between the couple. “To remember the trip.”
“We did more than that,” Dom tells her, shooting Billy a look. “Bills here spent a small fortune. He followed me around and picked up anything that I expressed more than a passing fancy to. We’d been there an hour before I realized what he was doing.”
“Sneaky,” Aureen comments with a laugh.
“I begged him to put some things back, but he wouldn’t hear of it,” Dom finishes.
“It was worth every penny,” Billy adds, leaning in and pressing a kiss to Dom’s rosy cheek. “And then some.”
“Did you take the ferry cruise?” Austin asks. “I’ve heard you get quite a view of the waterfront.”
“Aye, we did,” Billy replies with a grin. “We rode the Mersey Ferry, and got to sing along with the song while we were at it. I managed to take a number of photographs, too. I’ll send you copies if you like.”
“I would,” Aureen interjects quickly. “I hope you got some pictures of the two of you as well. We only have one picture of you and Dom together.”
“There will be a full set of photos ready when you come down for the wedding,” Billy promises, earning him a kiss and a hug from Dom and a grateful smile from Aureen.
“Our second night there, we had dinner in Chinatown at this great restaurant,” Dom adds eagerly, rubbing his belly as he recalls the savory meal. “What was it called again, Bills?”
“Jacaranda,” Billy supplies, stroking the blonde hair at the nape of Dom’s neck. “So glad I made a reservation a couple of weeks ago or we’d have never gotten in.”
“The food was bloody incredible, Mum.”
“So I take it that you’ll be heading up to Glasgow next?” Aureen inquires. “Or do you have other places to see first?”
“Maggie’s expecting us tonight,” Billy explains, shifting slightly to accommodate Dom’s head resting on his shoulder. “I think we’ll spend a few days there, and then go wherever the mood takes us. Mark’s taking care of the book shop, so I don’t have to worry about that.”
“How long has it been since you were home?” Austin inquires.
“About three years, I’m sorry to admit, and very briefly then,” Billy replies ruefully, rubbing his cheek against Dom’s hair. “Maggie’s been reminding me for quite some time how long I’ve been away and asked me to visit, but it just hasn’t worked out.”
“Until now,” Dom supplies gently.
“Aye.”
“Well, as much as I love having you here, I don’t want to keep you from your plans, especially when you have a long drive ahead of you,” Aureen says reluctantly, reaching across the table to take Dom’s hand in hers. “Thank you for stopping in for a visit. It was lovely to see you, and have lunch together.”
“It was nice to see you again,” Billy says, speaking on behalf of Dom. “And we’ll see you again in a little over a week.”
“Indeed you will.”
Just then, the phone rings, and Austin excuses himself to hurry inside to answer it, as he’s been expecting a call.
Dom watches his father disappear into the house, then lifts his head and presses a quick kiss to Billy’s cheek. “I’m going to run to the loo. Be right back.”
“The tiny bladder strikes again,” Billy teases softly.
“Wanker,” Dom retorts fondly.
“Ach, you love me.”
Dom can’t stop the smile that lights up his face. “Yeah, I do.”
The couple share a brief kiss, and then Dom walks inside, leaving Billy alone with his mother.
“He looks good,” Aureen says quietly before she takes a sip of her tea. “Seems happier every time I see him.”
“I hope so,” Billy tells her. “God knows he deserves it.”
“Is there anything we can do for the wedding?” she asks. “Dom said everything was planned out, taken care of, but-”
“As long as you’re there to celebrate with us, that’s all we could ask for,” Billy replies gently when she trails off. “Dom wanted something low-key, with family and close friends.”
“What about you? What did you want?” Aureen presses.
“I want the day to be whatever Dom wants,” Billy says honestly. “I would marry him anywhere, however and whenever he wanted to. At the shop with the people we care about and a dinner afterwards sounds perfect to me.”
“Yes, it does,” Aureen admits with a smile.
~ * ~ * ~ * ~ * ~
Dom is in the hall, moving towards the back garden when Austin calls out his name, and he stops and then turns to watch his father walk down the stairs towards him.
“Do you know what you’re wearing for the ceremony?” Austin asks as his arm slides around Dom’s slender shoulders and squeezes gently.
“Same suit I wore for graduation,” Dom replies with a smile. “I love it. It’s a reminder of Billy, and that’s never a bad thing. The suit is for special occasions, and getting married qualifies, I figure.”
“Indeed it does,” Austin agrees, then shifts away, moving from one foot to the other and clears his throat. “I, uh, I wondered if you might be interested in wearing these for the day,” he says finally, pulling a small box out of the pocket of his trousers and opening it to reveal a pair of silver cufflinks.
Dom’s jaw drops and his eyes start to glisten. “Dad-”
“My father gave them to me,” Austin explains. “And I wore them the day I married your mother.”
“They’re beautiful,” Dom says softly.
“I don’t know if you’ve already decided on-”
“Dad, stop,” Dom interrupts quickly, reaching out to rest his hand on the older man’s shoulder. “I’m honored. Thank you.”
Father and son come together for a lingering hug, the older man pressing a kiss to Dom’s temple as they part.
“Do you want to take them with you, or shall I bring them down next week?” Austin asks as he watches Dom gaze reverently at the objects in the small velvet box.
“Can you hold onto them for now?” Dom requests hopefully, looking up at his father. “Billy and I have got a lot of traveling ahead of us, and I’d never forgive myself if I lost them.”
“I can do that.”
“Thank you, Dad,” Dom says to him, his eyes serious. “It’s important to me to have your support. And Mum’s, of course.”
“You have it, Dominic,” Austin replies tenderly, reaching out to cup his son’s cheek. “All we’ve ever wanted was for you to be happy, and you certainly seem to be with Billy.”
“I am. I promise.”
“We’d better get back outside before your mother sends out a search party,” Austin teases. “You know how she is.”
“Yeah, I do,” Dom replies with a grin.
Austin tucks the cufflinks back into his pocket before they walk outside, and a few minutes later all are exchanging hugs and saying goodbye. It’s well into the afternoon now, and Dom and Billy have quite journey ahead of them. Hand in hand, the couple have almost reached the car when Dom offers to drive for a while, so Billy can rest if he wants, and then take over when they get closer to Glasgow. After nodding in agreement, Billy hands over the keys and slips into the passenger seat, both of them waving to Austin and Aureen, who are watching them from their front door.
Once underway, heading north to Scotland, Dom tells Billy about the conversation he had with his father and the cufflinks. Shortly after that, Dom falls quiet in the hopes that Billy will try to nap, and within minutes, Billy has tipped his seat back, and his whistling snore is the only sound in the vehicle. After a couple of hours, they trade seats again, and Billy drives the rest of the way to Glasgow, the couple discussing various locations that may be of interest to them both. On several occasions, Dom asks Billy to pull over so they can admire the scenery, and Billy obliges him, of course, even pulling out the camera to take a few photographs of the landscape.
Knowing that they don’t have to rush to be anywhere, Billy lets himself relax, watch Dom’s childlike exuberance as though he’s been given a new toy, and he starts to take in the place that was his home for so many years. The truth is, Billy has missed it, but it’s now, because it’s so close, that he feels the ache in his chest. For so long he’s avoided thinking about the years he’s been away from his homeland. Billy’s not sorry that he left to go to uni, because it brought him to this place in his life, with Dom and the book shop, but there’s still that spot in his heart that has always belonged to Scotland. No matter where Billy goes, it’s always there, waiting for him.
“You’ve missed it,” Dom murmurs softly as he curls into Billy’s side and gives him a gentle squeeze. “I see it in your eyes.”
“Aye, I have,” Billy admits. “I’m glad you suggested that we come here. It’s been too long.”
“I’ve seen that look before, from time to time,” Dom adds. “Now I know what it means. That you’re thinking about this beautiful place.”
“Aye,” Billy whispers.
“Do you want me to drive?”
“No, we’re almost there,” Billy tells him before consulting his watch. “We’ll be just in time for dinner, unless Maggie’s changed the time that she puts it on the table.”
“She’s not making something special, is she?” Dom asks nervously, gnawing on his lower lip. “Nothing traditional, like say, haggis?”
Billy bursts out laughing at the way Dom is trying so hard to hide his horror and force a smile.
“No, love,” he chokes out when he can speak. “Maggie wouldn’t do that to you. If you asked her to make it, well then, that would be a different story.”
“Bills, I love you to death, but I’ll pass on the heart, liver and lungs cooked in the lining of a sheep’s stomach,” Dom tells him, unable to suppress a shudder as he screws up his face in revulsion. “I swear that monstrosity must’ve been thought up by your ancestors on a dare when they were all drunk off their arses.”
“You may be right, love,” Billy says, and laughs again. “You may be right.”
A few minutes later they get back on the road and resume their journey, arriving at their hotel shortly thereafter. In less than twenty minutes, they are checked into their room, suitcases unloaded from the boot of the car, and on their way over to Maggie’s for dinner. As in Manchester, the couple are greeted with huge smiles and fierce hugs, Dom hanging back this time to watch Billy with his sister. Maggie flatly refuses to let go of Billy while she urges Dom to come closer, the three sharing an embrace as she congratulates them on their upcoming nuptials. She can’t wait for it all to be official that Dom is Billy’s partner, and her brother-in-law.
The next several hours pass with a delicious, home-cooked meal, no haggis, although the mention of it makes Maggie giggle, followed by cups of tea and a journey down memory lane when their hostess pulls out some albums that contain photos of childhood. While Billy blushes to the tips of his ears, his neck pink, Dom eagerly pours over the pictures, drinking in the images of his lover as lad, growing up in Scotland. For the first time, Dom sees a picture of their parents, and muses to himself how much Billy looks like his father, except for his eyes. In that respect, Billy takes after his mother.
It’s getting late when the couple finally say good night and return to the hotel, the three promising to have breakfast together the next morning before Dom and Billy set out to play tourist. As it has become tradition while on their honeymoon, the couple make love before surrendering to exhaustion, curled up in each others arms, sated and content. The last thing Billy remembers before falling asleep is the sensation of Dom’s cheek against his chest, long limbs entwined with his. Tomorrow, they’ll get to discover Scotland together.
~ * ~ * ~ * ~ * ~
Chapter 31
Author: dylan_dufresne
Pairing: BB/DM
Rating: NC-17
Summary: Fulfilling a dream, romantic indulgences, a welcome visit, and a return home.
Feedback: Would be greatly appreciated as it’s my drug of choice. Many thanks to my beta, frojane.
Special Thanks: To loki_girl for the exquisite banner that she has created, and to tarnishedhalo for loaning me her inspirational manip for the centerpiece. I am so thankful and appreciative of you both, and your generosity.
Disclaimer: Not at all true in reality. This is my imagination at work.
Previous Chapters: 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 15 | 16 | 17 | 18 | 19 | 20 | 21 | 22 | 23 | 24 | 25 | 26 | 27 | 28 | 29
Chapter 30
Slowly rising to consciousness from the depths of a peaceful sleep, Billy shifts and burrows into the warmth in front of him, arm tightening around Dom’s waist as he tucks his knees into the back of Dom’s thighs. A sleepy sigh pushes past Billy’s lips, and he smiles at the sensation of his lover’s bare skin pressed against him, the younger man’s hand wrapped possessively around his forearm to keep him close.
The slow, measured breaths inform Billy that Dom is still fast asleep, and the idea of waking Dom with pleasure causes heat to pool in his belly. Billy presses feathery kisses to the nape of Dom’s neck, and he begins to slowly pet his lover’s treasure trail with the tips of his fingers as his arousal starts to harden against the tantalizing curve of Dom’s arse.
A murmur of pleasure flows past Dom’s parted lips, along with a breathy sigh, and when he begins slowly rocking his hips against Billy’s erection, the older man has to swallow a ragged groan. The hand not holding Billy’s arm travels back across the coverlet, coming to rest on Billy’s hip as Dom arches his back.
“Don’t stop,” Dom murmurs sleepily. “Feels good.”
“Want more?” Billy breathes across his ear, smiling when the words elicit a shiver.
In reply, Dom shifts his body until they’re face to face, his dark eyes half-lidded and drowsy with passion, a long leg wrapping around Billy’s waist.
“C’mere,” he rasps. “Want you.”
All too happy to oblige his lover, Billy captures Dom’s waiting mouth in a tender kiss as he rolls them over, and slides between Dom’s thighs. Billy starts to trail kisses down Dom’s neck, to ensure maximum pleasure, only to be surprised when Dom tugs him higher.
“Dommie-”
“Need you,” Dom whispers. “Inside.”
When their mouths come together again, the hunger for one another seems to have grown exponentially, tongues tangling wetly as hands eagerly explore bare skin. Billy doesn’t remember reaching for the tube of lubricant on the night stand, but knows that he’s used it when their bodies slide together intimately, warm and slick. At Dom’s encouragement, he tugs a hand under Dom’s left thigh to guide a long leg over his shoulder, intensifying the stretch, and Billy’s senses are overwhelmed by the image of his lover writhing beneath him, wantonly begging for more.
Pumping his hips in a seductive rhythm and repeatedly stroking the tiny bundle of nerves inside Dom, Billy watches the younger man writhe in ecstasy, and he increases his speed until Dom’s loud cry of completion, hot pulses of his release slicking their stomachs. As Dom comes back to himself, murmurs of encouragement tumble from his lips, and it’s only a few moments later that he’s being filled with Billy’s intimate warmth. Knowing that Dom prefers to stay joined for as long as possible, Billy carefully rolls them onto their sides as they cling to one another, hot breath mingling and hearts pounding.
“Never get tired of waking up with your hands on me,” Dom sighs, pressing a kiss to the side of Billy’s damp neck. “Or you inside me.”
“Good. I thought it would be a nice way to start our honeymoon,” Billy replies quietly, stroking Dom’s back from shoulders to hips.
“I thought that didn’t start until tonight. Officially,” Dom comments, tipping up his chin to meet Billy’s sated gaze. “When we arrive at our first destination, wherever it may be.”
“I’m not telling you,” Billy says, shaking his head and smiling playfully. “It’s a surprise.”
“I already know that we’re going to Glasgow,” Dom tells him, attempting to bring Billy around to his way of thinking. “Why all the secrecy?”
“Because I love watching your big beautiful eyes when I give you something that you’re not expecting,” Billy explains fondly. “Like the first night of our vacation in London, when we went to dinner.”
“That did work out rather well,” Dom admits with a blush, recalling the intimate evening. “Didn’t it?”
Billy grins. “I thought so.”
“Okay. I’ll stop asking for hints.”
For a long moment, Billy gazes intently at Dom’s rosy mouth, and then traces the pouty curve of his lower lip with the tip of his finger.
“What?” Dom asks, unable to decipher the tangle of emotions in his lover’s eyes.
“I never knew I could be this happy,” Billy tells him, almost reverently. “I can’t wait to start our life together, and put that ring on your finger with a promise of forever.”
Dom’s expressive eyes glisten and he bites down on his lower lip as he struggles to form an adequate response. “Bills-”
Cutting off Dom’s words, Billy guides their lips together for an achingly gentle kiss, his arms gathering the younger man close, and then rolling them until Dom is flat on his back. The intimate contact continues until Dom is limp beneath him, mewling softly at the pleasure he cannot contain, and then Billy finally lifts his head to break the kiss.
“Make sure you’re all packed before your appointment this afternoon,” Billy tells him, sliding his index finger back and forth across Dom’s collarbone and smiling at the raspy intake of breath it elicits. “As soon as you get home, we’ll get on the road.”
“If you want to leave earlier, I can just cancel-”
“You don’t have to do that, Dommie,” Billy interrupts. “I’ve already arranged for a late check in. We’ll have plenty of time.”
“Okay then.”
“You know, if you’ve changed your mind about your hair, you don’t have to do it,” Billy adds, shifting his gaze to the silky, tousled strands of dark blonde. “It’s your hair, love.”
“I want to,” Dom replies, his long fingers sliding across his lover’s bare back. “Honest.”
“Do you want me to come with you?” Billy asks gently as he tips his head to one side. “I will. I don’t mind.”
“It’ll be fine, Bills,” Dom tells him with a smile. “It just won’t be the same, is all. You’ve been cutting my hair for two years. I know your touch better than my own. I’m going to miss it.”
Swallowing a groan, Billy captures Dom’s soft mouth in a lingering kiss, his arm sliding around Dom’s slender body and small hand resting at the small of his back.
“I’ll make you a promise,” Billy murmurs when their lips part, rubbing their noses together affectionately. “No matter who cuts your hair, I’ll never stop touching you.”
“Bills,” Dom sighs, his expression soft and intimate. “You keep talking like that and I’m never going to make it out of bed, let alone take a shower before I have to go.”
“Mmm. A shower,” Billy almost purrs. “Do you want some company?”
Dom smiles mischievously. “Always.”
“Then let’s go,” Billy announces, withdrawing and flipping back the coverlet before rising to his feet. “I wouldn’t want you to miss your appointment.”
Taking his lover’s outstretched hand, Dom stands and curls into Billy’s welcoming embrace, kissing his neck while they sway back and forth, quiet and comfortable.
“I love how I feel when you’re holding me,” Dom murmurs under his breath, slowly petting Billy’s mussed hair. “Your body pressed against mine, with nothing else to get in the way.”
“I’ll remember that,” Billy replies, guiding their mouths together for a soft kiss.
“Good.”
Dom bursts out laughing when Billy lifts him off the floor and carries him into the loo, moaning with pleasure as he’s guided under the warm spray, Billy’s cherubic mouth exploring his neck.
~ * ~ * ~ * ~ * ~
Shifting in the passenger seat, Dom swallows and licks his lips as he looks over to watch Billy’s profile.
“Okay, so I lied,” he announces. “Do I get a hint?”
Billy chuckles as he glances in the rearview mirror, then the side mirror before changing lanes, taking the exit off of the M6 onto the M62.
“I love you, Dommie,” he says fondly. “Don’t ever change.”
“You’re changing the subject,” Dom retorts. “I’m only asking for a hint.”
“Did I mention that I love your hair?” Billy inquires, trying desperately to hide a smile. “The blonde really suits you.”
“Bills, I walked into the shop and your hands were all over me,” Dom points out. “We almost had sex right there on the stairs.”
“I didn’t hear you complaining,” Billy points out. “As I recall, you’re the one who tried to open my trousers.”
“After you dragged me into the office and pinned me against the wall,” Dom nearly purrs. “You were as hard as a rock.”
“Couldn’t help myself,” Billy says softly. “You’re gorgeous.”
“I love you, too,” Dom replies quietly. “By the way.”
Briefly glancing away from the road so their eyes meet, Billy reaches over to lace their fingers together. He then refocuses his attention on his driving, leaving his hand resting on Dom’s thigh.
“Clue,” he says a few moments later, nodding at a navigation sign along the edge of the road.
Dom looks up just in time to catch one word as the car passes by, and he lets out a squeak of surprise, his eyes wide and mouth open as his head spins around so he can stare at Billy in wonder.
“Are we-”
Squeezing his lover’s hand, Billy smiles. “I thought you wouldn’t mind spending a couple of days or so in Liverpool. Check out the sights and whatnot.”
“Bills.” Excess moisture fills Dom’s expressive eyes as he clings to Billy’s hand, his breathing ragged. “You know-”
“That Liverpool is the birthplace of the Beatles?” Billy prompts, lifting his arm to slide it around Dom’s shoulders and guiding the younger man closer. “That it’s the place to visit for all that you could ever want to know about the Fab Four?”
“Yeah,” Dom says with a shaky nod. “That.”
“Aye, I read something like that somewhere.”
A long moment passes in silence as Dom attempts to absorb the revelation. Finally, he swallows hard, scrubs a hand over his face, and replies, “I don’t know what to say.”
Billy rubs his cheek against Dom’s silky blonde hair and then kisses his forehead, careful to keep his eyes on the road. “You can tell me if I made the right choice or not. I thought it would be something that you’d like, but if not-”
“Are you bloody mad? It’s incredible. I can’t believe you did this for me,” Dom muses aloud. “Are you sure this is how you want to spend our honeymoon? Even part of it?”
“Dommie, I’ve shared a flat with you for over a year and a half,” Billy replies gently, rubbing Dom’s bicep in a soothing rhythm. “You listen to their music every single day. When you’re happy, or when you’re sad. You love it, and it’s a part of you. You even have it tattooed on your body.”
“But just because I love it-”
“I love making you happy, and I had a great time in London, playing tourist with you,” Billy interjects. “I’m looking forward to learning more about something that is so important to you.”
“We’re still going to Glasgow, yeah?” Dom inquires, suddenly worried. “I’ve been reading travel books about Scotland for months now. This isn’t going to change that, is it?”
“Of course not, love,” Billy assures him. “I thought we could spend a few days here, and then I could return the favor by showing you what I love about Scotland.”
“Sounds perfect.”
“I need to move my hand, Dommie,” Billy says reluctantly. “We’ve not too much longer to go.”
“I thought it was further to Liverpool,” Dom murmurs, his brow furrowing.
“It is, actually, but I booked us a room on the edge of the city, and thought we could drive into the thick of things in the morning,” Billy explains as Dom shifts in his seat so he can place both hands on the wheel again. “I thought a smaller place would be nice, especially for our first night. Something with personal touches instead of a box with a bed.”
“I’m sure it’s lovely, Bills,” Dom says tenderly. “Thank you.”
“I haven’t done anything yet, love,” Billy protests, his cheeks flushing.
Smiling, Dom’s long fingers touch Billy’s knee, then slide up to rest on his thigh. “You know that’s not true.”
“Are you flirting with me, Dommie?” Billy teases, knowing that very soon they’ll be in a private location where he can indulge in his urges and lavish pleasure on the man he loves.
“C’mon, Bills. You know you’re getting lucky tonight, yeah?” Dom asks with a giggle.
“Oh am I?” Billy wonders aloud, his eyes wide with innocence.
“Definitely.”
~ * ~ * ~ * ~ * ~
A short while later, Billy makes a series of turns and then pulls the car to a stop in front of a quaint looking building, one that doesn’t look like any hotel that Dom’s ever seen. His eyes are full of question as he steps out of the vehicle and moves over to the boot to retrieve their suitcases, and Billy smiles as he joins him.
“Is this a Bed and Breakfast?” Dom asks. “I thought it would be smaller.”
“Actually, it’s a family run hotel,” Billy explains. “According to their advertisements. It’s been passed down from father to son, where they say they prefer less people, so it’s a homier feel for their guests.”
“It looks nice, Bills.”
With their bags in hand, Billy leads the way inside and over to the front desk, waiting until Dom is beside him so they can hold hands.
“Good evening,” the young woman behind the desk chirps with a friendly smile. “Checking in?”
“Aye, we are. The reservation is under the name Boyd,” Billy tells her. “The honeymoon suite.”
The gentle squeeze to his hand and the warm look that Billy directs at Dom causes him to blush and duck his head. A moment later he’s drawn closer to Billy, and a strong arm slides around his waist to cup his hip.
“Yes, I have it right here, Mr. Boyd,” the clerk replies with a nod, pulling up the appropriate screen on her computer. “Your room is ready, and we’ve also had your special requests taken care of.”
“Thank you.”
The woman opens a drawer and pulls out their room key while several sheets of paper roll off the printer behind her, and Billy releases Dom just long enough to sign them. As Billy accepts the proffered key, Dom starts to reach down to grab his suitcase, but just then a young man appears and scoops up both pieces of luggage.
“My name is Sarah, and this is my brother Geoffrey,” the desk clerk continues. “He’ll take good care of you.”
“If you’ll follow me, I’ll show you to your room,” Geoffrey requests, moving over to the staircase that leads to the level above.
“Enjoy your stay,” Sarah adds in closing. “And your room service will arrive shortly.”
“Thank you,” Billy replies before taking Dom’s hand and turning to follow the bellhop upstairs.
“The honeymoon suite?” Dom murmurs under his breath, shaking his head in wonder as they climb the flight of stairs. “Bills-”
“What?” Billy asks impishly, leaning in to press a quick kiss Dom’s cheek. “It is our honeymoon, is it not?”
“Yeah, but-”
“No buts.”
“Thank you,” Dom says softly.
“Does this qualify as a first?” Billy asks quietly as they reach the landing and he shifts to bring their bodies closer.
“Yes.”
“Then I look forward to reading about it later,” Billy murmurs hotly in Dom’s ear. “Every last detail.”
Dom’s eyes are dark with arousal, and he can’t speak as the bellhop arrives at their room. Refusing to let go of Dom unless it’s absolutely necessary, Billy opens the door one-handed and allows Geoffrey to enter first. A moment later a light is switched on, and the room is lit in a soft, romantic glow.
“Enjoy your stay,” Geoffrey says quietly, unobtrusively backing out of the room, pausing when Billy gestures for him to wait. “Yes, sir?”
A folded bill is pressed into the younger man’s hand, and Billy smiles. “Thank you, Geoffrey.”
The generous tip is quickly tucked into the bellhop’s pocket, and he nods his thanks.
“Have a good night.”
The door closes with a soft click, and then the couple are alone.
“Do you like it?” Billy asks softly, sliding his arms around Dom’s waist and resting his chin on the younger man’s shoulder as they take in their surroundings.
“I do.”
“Mmm. I like hearing you say those words,” Billy muses, tipping his head and pressing a lingering kiss to the fluttering pulse in Dom’s neck.
Before Billy can say another word, Dom is turning in his embrace and bringing their mouths together in a long, lusty kiss, lips parting and tongues tangling. Moaning into the contact, Billy keeps his eyes open long enough to move them safely over to the bed, and then he surrenders to the sensation as they sink down onto the softness. Shoes have been discarded, Dom’s t-shirt has been pulled up to expose his flat stomach, and Billy’s shirt opened and shoved down to his elbows when there is a knock at the door, eliciting a moan from the younger man.
“Hold that thought, Dommie,” Billy murmurs soothingly as he withdraws and refastens the buttons of his now rumpled shirt.
“Would rather hold you,” Dom retorts, rolling onto his belly to hide his prominent erection.
Thankful that his shirttails hide the evidence of his arousal, Billy smiles at Dom and then opens the door, beckoning the person to enter.
“Thank you, Geoffrey. You can put the tray over there,” Billy tells him, gesturing to a nearby table.
Pushing himself up onto his elbows, Dow arches an eyebrow at the bottle of wine in a silver bucket, two champagne flutes and a bowl next to them, cruelly covered with a silver lid so he can’t see what it holds. It would seem that Billy has plenty of surprises up his sleeve for the first night of their honeymoon, and the hotel outside of Liverpool is only the beginning.
Another folded bill is pressed into Geoffrey’s hand, and Dom is grinning when Billy closes and locks the door after he leaves, ensuring that they won’t be interrupted.
“You do realize you just made his night, yeah?” Dom says as Billy walks over to the tray.
“I’m in a good mood, and I felt like sharing it,” Billy replies, lifting the lid off the bowl to inspect the contents, careful not to let Dom see. “He did a good job. He deserved something, and it helps make up for all the people who don’t appreciate what he does.”
“You’re a good man,” Dom says, gazing at Billy, his eyes soft and intimate. “And generous, in so many different ways.”
“Thank you.”
“No, thank you,” Dom corrects. “It was that generosity that started us on this path.”
Before Dom can request it, Billy picks up the tray and carries it over to the bed, setting it on the floor before he sinks down onto the mattress.
“Are you thirsty, love?” he asks softly.
“Yeah.”
Leaning down, Billy scoops up the bottle of wine, strips away the foil cover, steadies it between his knees, and then grins at the satisfying arc that the cork makes after it pops free. Dom scrambles up onto his knees and reaches over the edge of the bed to grab the glasses for Billy to pour the sparkling liquid into, and laughs when Billy decides to take advantage of the fact that his hands are occupied. Small hands deftly open the button and fly of Dom’s blue jeans and tug his t-shirt up his lithe body as Billy’s mouth captures Dom’s in a passionate kiss that quickly overwhelms his senses.
“Mmm-gonna spill,” Dom pants, his knees melting and body trembling. “Bills.”
Reluctantly, Billy breaks the contact and takes the glasses, his eyes twinkling. “Take your shirt off,” he murmurs hungrily.
Billy then turns and walks over to the night stand, depositing the glasses there for safekeeping, only to gasp when long arms slide around his waist and he feels Dom’s erection press against the curve of his arse.
“Dommie,” he groans raggedly.
In what feels like the blink of an eye, Billy’s shirt is open and being swiftly dragged down his arms, and once freed, he reaches back to touch Dom, only to discover that Dom removed more than his t-shirt. He’s completely starkers, lithe body shimmering with heat and arousal. Billy quickly spins around to face Dom, and then they are rolling back and forth across the spacious bed, eagerly tearing off the remainder of Billy’s clothing so they can touch, skin to skin.
Sprawled on his back, Dom tips his head back to offer his neck, and moans with wanton pleasure when he’s rewarded with a long trail of soft, sucking kisses down to the hollow of his throat. He opens his mouth as to inquire where the lube is, and then Billy halts his ministrations and pulls back.
“Where are you going?” Dom cries out in protest. “Come back here.”
“I almost forgot something,” Billy explains tenderly. “I’ll be right back. I promise.”
As Dom watches him, Billy slowly moves down to the foot of the bed before sliding off the mattress and reaching down to the tray sitting on the floor. A moment later, a silver bowl of chocolate dipped strawberries is cradled between Billy’s palms, held low, shielding his nudity.
“Are you hungry, love?” he rasps.
Wordlessly, Dom parts his rosy lips in invitation, and gives them a slow, seductive lick, making them glisten.
“Why don’t you come closer and find out,” Dom suggests, his dark eyes smoldering with heat.
Billy smiles before he takes Dom up on his offer, and then some.
At a luxurious pace, the chocolate and strawberries are shared, amid long, sensuous kisses and desire filled caresses. Bare skin glistens in the soft light, the heat from their bodies causing a sheen to form as two become one, Dom’s lithe form writhing with pleasure when he takes his lover in deep and begins to ride him. Propped up on several pillows, one of Billy’s small hands roams endlessly over Dom’s chest and abdomen as he watches the ecstasy wash over the younger man while his other hand strokes Dom’s leaking arousal in a devastatingly erotic rhythm. When a dusky pink nipple catches Billy’s eye, he leans forward and delicately laps at it with his pointy tongue several times, tasting the fruit of the wine, and then he draws the bud between his lips before sucking ravenously.
A ragged cry fills the air as glittering fluid slicks Billy’s heaving stomach, and at the sensation of Dom climaxing, his already taut muscles clenching tightly, Billy can’t hold back his release any longer. Lips meet in a breathless kiss, hot pulses filling Dom as he watches the fierce orgasm overtake the older man, and when he can’t hold himself up any longer, utterly spent, Dom curls forward and sinks into Billy’s waiting arms. Limp with exhaustion, he can barely summon the strength to smile as a breathy kiss is pressed to his damp neck.
“Did you enjoy that, love?” Billy murmurs, stroking Dom’s trembling back in lazy caresses.
“You’re taking the piss, yeah?” Dom replies, nuzzling into the side of Billy’s neck and sighing with contentment. “If this is any indication of what our sex life is going to be like, I’m starting to wish we’d chosen a nice Saturday in February instead of waiting this bloody long.”
Chuckling under his breath, Billy tightens his arms around the younger man and pets the damp hair at the nape of his slender neck.
“Oh, I love you, Dommie,” he says when he can speak. “I was actually talking about the wine and strawberries.”
“I never thought of food as sexy until I met you,” Dom tells him, then reluctantly shifts to let their bodies slip apart before sinking down and stretching out alongside his lover. “Among other things.”
Billy tugs the extra pillows out from behind him and tosses them aside, rolls over and gathers Dom close in a gently possessive embrace, letting his eyes drop closed. All too happy to be pressed against his lover, Dom snuggles in, his head tucked under Billy’s chin, cheek against his furry chest.
“Comfortable?” Billy asks drowsily, his hand coming to rest at the small of Dom’s back.
After a brief shiver, Dom stretches his arm out, grabs a handful of the coverlet and tugs it over their prone bodies to cover them, now that the sweat is beginning to cool.
“Yeah,” he replies, and then tries to stifle a yawn.
“Tired?”
“Completely knackered, thanks to all that shagging,” Dom says, smiling to himself. “Not that I’m complaining, of course.”
Billy chuckles. “Good to know.”
“I still can’t believe we’re in Liverpool,” Dom muses quietly. “I keep waiting to wake up from a dream.”
“S’not a dream, Dommie. It’s all real.”
“Is it weird that I can’t wait to wake up tomorrow?”
“Not at all,” Billy tells him. “As a matter of fact, I’m rather looking forward to waking you up.”
“Mmmm. Now I like the sound of that,” Dom teases, his heart fluttering at the idea of Billy coaxing him from sleep with his intimate touch.
“Then close your eyes, love,” Billy murmurs as he reaches over and switches out the light. “It’ll be morning before you know it.”
Sighing dreamily, Dom rolls over so they can spoon together, Billy’s arm draped across his waist, and in a matter of minutes, both are fast asleep.
~ * ~ * ~ * ~ * ~
The couple spend three full days in Liverpool, Dom waking each morning by Billy’s touch and indulging in a leisurely round of lovemaking before showering together. Eager to make the most of their time, they head out from their charming hotel directly after the morning meal, returning late each evening, and making love again before falling asleep in each others arms. Billy can’t help the smile that turns up the corners of his mouth at the sensation of his lover sprawled over him, having witnessed Dom almost delirious with joy as he revealed one surprise after another. Just when Dom thought it couldn’t get any better, Billy would do something to change his mind, yet again. While Dom used to be wary about showing affection in public, he’s begun to open up, holding hands with Billy and even sharing a hug from time to time. While enjoying some live music one night after dinner, he even snuggled into Billy’s side and rested his head on Billy’s shoulder.
It’s after a passionate evening and when they’re curled up under the coverlet that Billy offers to extend their stay in Liverpool, but Dom slowly shakes his head in reply. After a soft, lingering kiss, Dom explains that they’ve explored everything he’s ever dreamed of seeing and so much more. He’ll always treasure this time, and he’ll never forget the precious gift that Billy gave him. There’s no need to extend their stay, because it’s already perfect.
In the morning, they pack their suitcases and begin the next phase of their honeymoon, setting off for Manchester, where Aureen and Austin are expecting them for lunch. Billy isn’t surprised when the hum of the tires on the asphalt lull Dom off to sleep, and every so often he glances over at his sleeping lover, smiling fondly. Part of Billy wishes they’d slept in a little more this morning, but at the same time, wouldn’t give up the image of Dom climaxing around him for any amount of sleep.
Shortly before noon, Billy guides the car to the curb just down the street from the Monaghan house and after cutting the engine, quietly unfastens his seat belt and leans over.
“Dommie?” he murmurs gently, drawing Dom’s blonde hair off his forehead and pressing a feathery kiss to his slack lips. “Open your eyes.”
“Again, Bills?” Dom replies, still half asleep. “We’ve already done it twice today, you randy bugger.”
Billy chuckles under his breath. “That’s a tempting offer, love, but I think your Mum might not approve of us shagging in the car in broad daylight where her neighbors can see us.”
“What?” Yawning and scrubbing a hand over his face to clear away the cobwebs, Dom finally opens his eyes and looks around. “Did I fall asleep?”
“Aye. I think you’re a wee bit knackered from all the energy you’ve been expending of late,” Billy teases. “I suppose we should think about cutting it back.”
“Don’t. You. Dare,” Dom growls playfully, and then drags their mouths together for a hot, wet, tongue tangling kiss. “We’re on our honeymoon,” he adds breathlessly when they part. “Tradition says we’re supposed to be shagging like rabbits.”
Billy’s green eyes twinkle mischievously. “If you insist, then who am I to argue?”
”You’re crazy, Bills,” Dom says, smiling with contentment and then stretching as best as he can in the confined space.
“About you,” Billy adds. “Let’s get out of the car before your Mum starts to wonder where we are.”
“Good idea. Wouldn’t want her to worry,” Dom replies.
The couple are barely halfway up the concrete path to the house when the door opens and they’re greeted by Aureen’s smiling face.
“Right on time,” she offers in greeting. “It’s good to see you.”
“Hi Mum,” Dom says fondly before he’s enveloped in her arms, grinning as he presses a kiss to her cheek. “I’ve missed you.”
“You look lovely, Dominic,” she says, pulling back to meet his eyes. “You’ve changed your hair.”
“I hear blonde’s have more fun,” he teases. “Decided to give it a go.”
Billy hangs back a couple of steps, watching the interaction, until Aureen looks his way and then he waves.
“You’re looking well, Billy,” she says warmly. “How is the shop doing?”
“Business is just great,” he tells her. “How are you?”
“Busy, but very much looking forward to getting away for a few days for the wedding,” Aureen replies. “How was the drive?”
“Uneventful, just the way I like it.” Billy chuckles when Dom tugs him closer, their fingers lacing together. “Dom slept most of the way.”
Surprised at Billy’s words, Aureen glances at her watch. “Where did you drive from?”
“Billy had a surprise for me,” Dom answers, his tone soft and intimate as he gazes at the older man. “He took me to Liverpool.”
Realization dawns, and Aureen’s face lights up. “The birthplace of the Beatles. I don’t know why I’m even surprised.”
“I was,” Dom adds with a laugh. “He left me speechless.”
“Aye, you were,” Billy agrees. “We sent you a postcard. You’ll probably get it in a day or two.”
“Well, come inside and tell us all about your trip so far,” Aureen suggests, turning and leading the way inside. “Your father is in the kitchen and lunch should be almost ready.”
After deciding to eat outdoors in the back garden and enjoy the warm weather, Billy sits back and lets Dom tell his parents about all the places they visited, adding a detail here and there. Once they are done eating, Dom shifts his chair and snuggles into Billy’s side, one hand resting on Billy’s thigh while Billy’s arm slides around his shoulders. Their position is comfortable and relaxed, and Billy can’t help but marvel at the huge differences between this visit and the last one.
“So, did you have a favorite?” Aureen asks. “Of all the things you saw?”
“The Magical Mystery Tour was incredible,” Dom replies, letting himself fall into his memories for a few seconds. “But the exhibit at the Britannia Pavilion was great, too. Starting there and walking through the Merseyside Maritime Museum was the perfect way to start.”
“And you, Billy?” Austin prompts. “Any favorites?”
“We had dinner at the Cavern Club one night, and then heard some live music at the Cavern Pub across the street afterwards,” Billy says, after taking a moment to consider his answer. “There were some local bands in there, which was nice, but I think we had the most fun in the Beatles Shop.”
Dom almost groans in ecstasy at the recollection, and then blushes when his mother laughs.
“Liked that, did you, Dominic?” she teases gently.
“It was grand,” Dom says reverently. “We were in there for hours.”
“I hope you bought a couple of souvenirs,” Aureen says expectantly, looking back and forth between the couple. “To remember the trip.”
“We did more than that,” Dom tells her, shooting Billy a look. “Bills here spent a small fortune. He followed me around and picked up anything that I expressed more than a passing fancy to. We’d been there an hour before I realized what he was doing.”
“Sneaky,” Aureen comments with a laugh.
“I begged him to put some things back, but he wouldn’t hear of it,” Dom finishes.
“It was worth every penny,” Billy adds, leaning in and pressing a kiss to Dom’s rosy cheek. “And then some.”
“Did you take the ferry cruise?” Austin asks. “I’ve heard you get quite a view of the waterfront.”
“Aye, we did,” Billy replies with a grin. “We rode the Mersey Ferry, and got to sing along with the song while we were at it. I managed to take a number of photographs, too. I’ll send you copies if you like.”
“I would,” Aureen interjects quickly. “I hope you got some pictures of the two of you as well. We only have one picture of you and Dom together.”
“There will be a full set of photos ready when you come down for the wedding,” Billy promises, earning him a kiss and a hug from Dom and a grateful smile from Aureen.
“Our second night there, we had dinner in Chinatown at this great restaurant,” Dom adds eagerly, rubbing his belly as he recalls the savory meal. “What was it called again, Bills?”
“Jacaranda,” Billy supplies, stroking the blonde hair at the nape of Dom’s neck. “So glad I made a reservation a couple of weeks ago or we’d have never gotten in.”
“The food was bloody incredible, Mum.”
“So I take it that you’ll be heading up to Glasgow next?” Aureen inquires. “Or do you have other places to see first?”
“Maggie’s expecting us tonight,” Billy explains, shifting slightly to accommodate Dom’s head resting on his shoulder. “I think we’ll spend a few days there, and then go wherever the mood takes us. Mark’s taking care of the book shop, so I don’t have to worry about that.”
“How long has it been since you were home?” Austin inquires.
“About three years, I’m sorry to admit, and very briefly then,” Billy replies ruefully, rubbing his cheek against Dom’s hair. “Maggie’s been reminding me for quite some time how long I’ve been away and asked me to visit, but it just hasn’t worked out.”
“Until now,” Dom supplies gently.
“Aye.”
“Well, as much as I love having you here, I don’t want to keep you from your plans, especially when you have a long drive ahead of you,” Aureen says reluctantly, reaching across the table to take Dom’s hand in hers. “Thank you for stopping in for a visit. It was lovely to see you, and have lunch together.”
“It was nice to see you again,” Billy says, speaking on behalf of Dom. “And we’ll see you again in a little over a week.”
“Indeed you will.”
Just then, the phone rings, and Austin excuses himself to hurry inside to answer it, as he’s been expecting a call.
Dom watches his father disappear into the house, then lifts his head and presses a quick kiss to Billy’s cheek. “I’m going to run to the loo. Be right back.”
“The tiny bladder strikes again,” Billy teases softly.
“Wanker,” Dom retorts fondly.
“Ach, you love me.”
Dom can’t stop the smile that lights up his face. “Yeah, I do.”
The couple share a brief kiss, and then Dom walks inside, leaving Billy alone with his mother.
“He looks good,” Aureen says quietly before she takes a sip of her tea. “Seems happier every time I see him.”
“I hope so,” Billy tells her. “God knows he deserves it.”
“Is there anything we can do for the wedding?” she asks. “Dom said everything was planned out, taken care of, but-”
“As long as you’re there to celebrate with us, that’s all we could ask for,” Billy replies gently when she trails off. “Dom wanted something low-key, with family and close friends.”
“What about you? What did you want?” Aureen presses.
“I want the day to be whatever Dom wants,” Billy says honestly. “I would marry him anywhere, however and whenever he wanted to. At the shop with the people we care about and a dinner afterwards sounds perfect to me.”
“Yes, it does,” Aureen admits with a smile.
~ * ~ * ~ * ~ * ~
Dom is in the hall, moving towards the back garden when Austin calls out his name, and he stops and then turns to watch his father walk down the stairs towards him.
“Do you know what you’re wearing for the ceremony?” Austin asks as his arm slides around Dom’s slender shoulders and squeezes gently.
“Same suit I wore for graduation,” Dom replies with a smile. “I love it. It’s a reminder of Billy, and that’s never a bad thing. The suit is for special occasions, and getting married qualifies, I figure.”
“Indeed it does,” Austin agrees, then shifts away, moving from one foot to the other and clears his throat. “I, uh, I wondered if you might be interested in wearing these for the day,” he says finally, pulling a small box out of the pocket of his trousers and opening it to reveal a pair of silver cufflinks.
Dom’s jaw drops and his eyes start to glisten. “Dad-”
“My father gave them to me,” Austin explains. “And I wore them the day I married your mother.”
“They’re beautiful,” Dom says softly.
“I don’t know if you’ve already decided on-”
“Dad, stop,” Dom interrupts quickly, reaching out to rest his hand on the older man’s shoulder. “I’m honored. Thank you.”
Father and son come together for a lingering hug, the older man pressing a kiss to Dom’s temple as they part.
“Do you want to take them with you, or shall I bring them down next week?” Austin asks as he watches Dom gaze reverently at the objects in the small velvet box.
“Can you hold onto them for now?” Dom requests hopefully, looking up at his father. “Billy and I have got a lot of traveling ahead of us, and I’d never forgive myself if I lost them.”
“I can do that.”
“Thank you, Dad,” Dom says to him, his eyes serious. “It’s important to me to have your support. And Mum’s, of course.”
“You have it, Dominic,” Austin replies tenderly, reaching out to cup his son’s cheek. “All we’ve ever wanted was for you to be happy, and you certainly seem to be with Billy.”
“I am. I promise.”
“We’d better get back outside before your mother sends out a search party,” Austin teases. “You know how she is.”
“Yeah, I do,” Dom replies with a grin.
Austin tucks the cufflinks back into his pocket before they walk outside, and a few minutes later all are exchanging hugs and saying goodbye. It’s well into the afternoon now, and Dom and Billy have quite journey ahead of them. Hand in hand, the couple have almost reached the car when Dom offers to drive for a while, so Billy can rest if he wants, and then take over when they get closer to Glasgow. After nodding in agreement, Billy hands over the keys and slips into the passenger seat, both of them waving to Austin and Aureen, who are watching them from their front door.
Once underway, heading north to Scotland, Dom tells Billy about the conversation he had with his father and the cufflinks. Shortly after that, Dom falls quiet in the hopes that Billy will try to nap, and within minutes, Billy has tipped his seat back, and his whistling snore is the only sound in the vehicle. After a couple of hours, they trade seats again, and Billy drives the rest of the way to Glasgow, the couple discussing various locations that may be of interest to them both. On several occasions, Dom asks Billy to pull over so they can admire the scenery, and Billy obliges him, of course, even pulling out the camera to take a few photographs of the landscape.
Knowing that they don’t have to rush to be anywhere, Billy lets himself relax, watch Dom’s childlike exuberance as though he’s been given a new toy, and he starts to take in the place that was his home for so many years. The truth is, Billy has missed it, but it’s now, because it’s so close, that he feels the ache in his chest. For so long he’s avoided thinking about the years he’s been away from his homeland. Billy’s not sorry that he left to go to uni, because it brought him to this place in his life, with Dom and the book shop, but there’s still that spot in his heart that has always belonged to Scotland. No matter where Billy goes, it’s always there, waiting for him.
“You’ve missed it,” Dom murmurs softly as he curls into Billy’s side and gives him a gentle squeeze. “I see it in your eyes.”
“Aye, I have,” Billy admits. “I’m glad you suggested that we come here. It’s been too long.”
“I’ve seen that look before, from time to time,” Dom adds. “Now I know what it means. That you’re thinking about this beautiful place.”
“Aye,” Billy whispers.
“Do you want me to drive?”
“No, we’re almost there,” Billy tells him before consulting his watch. “We’ll be just in time for dinner, unless Maggie’s changed the time that she puts it on the table.”
“She’s not making something special, is she?” Dom asks nervously, gnawing on his lower lip. “Nothing traditional, like say, haggis?”
Billy bursts out laughing at the way Dom is trying so hard to hide his horror and force a smile.
“No, love,” he chokes out when he can speak. “Maggie wouldn’t do that to you. If you asked her to make it, well then, that would be a different story.”
“Bills, I love you to death, but I’ll pass on the heart, liver and lungs cooked in the lining of a sheep’s stomach,” Dom tells him, unable to suppress a shudder as he screws up his face in revulsion. “I swear that monstrosity must’ve been thought up by your ancestors on a dare when they were all drunk off their arses.”
“You may be right, love,” Billy says, and laughs again. “You may be right.”
A few minutes later they get back on the road and resume their journey, arriving at their hotel shortly thereafter. In less than twenty minutes, they are checked into their room, suitcases unloaded from the boot of the car, and on their way over to Maggie’s for dinner. As in Manchester, the couple are greeted with huge smiles and fierce hugs, Dom hanging back this time to watch Billy with his sister. Maggie flatly refuses to let go of Billy while she urges Dom to come closer, the three sharing an embrace as she congratulates them on their upcoming nuptials. She can’t wait for it all to be official that Dom is Billy’s partner, and her brother-in-law.
The next several hours pass with a delicious, home-cooked meal, no haggis, although the mention of it makes Maggie giggle, followed by cups of tea and a journey down memory lane when their hostess pulls out some albums that contain photos of childhood. While Billy blushes to the tips of his ears, his neck pink, Dom eagerly pours over the pictures, drinking in the images of his lover as lad, growing up in Scotland. For the first time, Dom sees a picture of their parents, and muses to himself how much Billy looks like his father, except for his eyes. In that respect, Billy takes after his mother.
It’s getting late when the couple finally say good night and return to the hotel, the three promising to have breakfast together the next morning before Dom and Billy set out to play tourist. As it has become tradition while on their honeymoon, the couple make love before surrendering to exhaustion, curled up in each others arms, sated and content. The last thing Billy remembers before falling asleep is the sensation of Dom’s cheek against his chest, long limbs entwined with his. Tomorrow, they’ll get to discover Scotland together.
~ * ~ * ~ * ~ * ~
Chapter 31