{"id":1853,"date":"2018-01-29T19:23:33","date_gmt":"2018-01-29T17:23:33","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/shirasade.net\/fiction\/?p=1853"},"modified":"2018-01-29T19:23:33","modified_gmt":"2018-01-29T17:23:33","slug":"turning-page","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/shirasade.net\/fiction\/turning-page\/","title":{"rendered":"Turning Page"},"content":{"rendered":"

Author's Note<\/strong>: Look what I found in my WIP folder! It was almost done, so I finished it, hoping that the long time since I watched the series doesn't show... \ud83d\ude42<\/p>\n

***<\/p>\n

It had felt like a fresh start. <\/p>\n

Kent had been so bloody miserable for what felt like forever, even dragging Erica, the one person he\u2019d always been able to count on, down with him. (And Mansell, but really, who would have thought the blighter had an actual heart?) He deserved the punch as well as Chandler\u2019s cold dismissal, even if both hurt, made him bleed, literally and figuratively. Somehow, the pain cut through the fog of misery surrounding him, and Kent was able to actually see himself again, not the twisted, bitter version of himself that had taunted him in every reflective surface. <\/p>\n

He managed to fix things between Erica and Mansell, although he\u2019d have to do some more groveling to get his twin\u2019s complete forgiveness. (He still didn\u2019t properly care about Mansell\u2019s emotional state, not unless it pertained to Erica, except that he was glad his team mate wasn\u2019t about to step off the edge of a roof anymore.) He found the girl\u2019s body in the crypt, and Chandler told him \u201cwell done\u201d, the compliment all the more precious because of what had come before. Kent had let the team down, his family, himself - but now he was finally back on track.<\/p>\n

The feeling was almost exhilarating, even more so when it looked as if this time they\u2019d managed to capture the killers alive and before they managed to murder another innocent. Buoyed by excitement, his guard down, Kent blurted out his invitation to Chandler - and slipped up. Although he tried to cover it up immediately, there was no way Chandler could not notice that his DC had just invited him on a date. The DI was somewhat slow on the uptake when it came to personal issues, but he was a trained detective and far from stupid. However, to top it all off, the miracle happened and Chandler accepted without hesitation.<\/p>\n

Kent wasn\u2019t sure whether his slip had escaped notice after all or whether the man he\u2019d had a badly concealed crush on since he\u2019d first set foot onto their patch had actually agreed to go out with him. He didn\u2019t have time to decide which option he\u2019d prefer - there was history (the Krays, Morgan) as well as rank separating them - when the call came in that fate had played another cruel trick on Joseph Chandler and his team. All eight killers were dead, as was the constable who\u2019d driven the van. <\/p>\n

It was enough to make Kent want to scream in anger and frustration - were they ever going to get out from under that black cloud? Was there ever going to be a fresh start for any of them? Especially for Chandler, whose name and face were what ended up in the papers and who the other coppers talked about in hushed voices, half pity, half scorn. Automatically Kent\u2019s eyes went to the boss\u2019 office, concern overruling everything else.<\/p>\n

It was as bad as he\u2019d feared, Miles leaning against the doorway, slumped forward despondently while Chandler was completely, totally falling apart. Inexplicably, bits of paper were drifting in the air like so much white confetti, but it was the look on the DI\u2019s face that held Kent\u2019s attention to the exclusion of everything else. There was despair there, and anger, and utter, utter hopelessness, before elegant hands came up to claw at skin, leaving red marks on cheeks and neck. The noise that escaped Chandler was something between a wail and a scream, and out of the corner of his eye Kent noticed Riley talking loudly while she ushered everyone except the team out. She was good like that, protective of those she considered her own, as Kent had recently learned, and he felt grateful on behalf of their boss. Having unsympathetic witnesses to his breakdown was the last thing Chandler needed.<\/p>\n

Kent himself was rooted to the spot, caught between feeling like an intruder and the urge to rush forward and do\u2026 what he didn\u2019t know, just something to make it all somehow okay, or at least bearable. It was Miles who took a couple of steps forward and firmly took Chandler\u2019s hands in his, restraining him gently while talking urgently, quietly enough for the team not to hear what it was he said. Kent firmly stomped down the first embers of jealousy when Chandler finally stopped rocking back and forth and fell silent. Instead he finally moved, his eyes surveying the mess of a desk until he spotted what he was looking for on the ground. Quickly he leaned down and grabbed the pot of tiger balm, wiping it on his shirt before offering it to Chandler.<\/p>\n

The DI looked up and their eyes met for a moment before the red-rimmed gaze was averted in obvious embarrassment and shame. He did accept the pot, however, and Miles let go of his arms with an awkward pat on the shoulder. Kent averted his eyes as the familiar smell pervaded the air. In the background he heard the others in the ready room start talking again in low voices, probably exchanging their own feelings about the horrible accident that had prompted all of this. Instead of joining them Kent focused his eyes on the mess that was Chandler\u2019s office, and after glancing at Miles for permission, which the Sergeant gave with a quirk of his lips, he started clearing up.<\/p>\n

As he put stuff back into their proper order he could hear Chandler\u2019s breath, still going too fast, too shallow, but he forced himself not to look up, no matter how much he wanted to reach out. He\u2019d have given Chandler - and Miles - privacy and joined the others, but he wanted to make sure nothing was out of place. The boss had enough on his plate, Kent could at least do this for him if nothing else. <\/p>\n

When he had finished he looked up and realised with a start that Chandler was watching him, his face quiet and slightly inquisitive, his long fingers rubbing circles against his temples. Kent forgot to turn away and their eyes locked for an endless moment, making it hard for Kent to breathe as he realised his emotions were probably laid bare for all to see. It was Miles who broke the silence with a cough that was much too casual to be real, and Kent quickly turned away, feeling his cheeks begin to burn. <\/p>\n

Chandler\u2019s voice followed him out of the room, subdued but calm. \u201cThank you... Emerson.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNo problem, sir,\u201d Kent mumbled and felt warmth spread from the back of his neck where he was sure he could still feel Chandler\u2019s thoughtful eyes on him, but when he glanced back they were focused on the objects Kent had aligned so carefully while listening to Miles say something that was probably the perfect mix of bruskness and caring. Still, something hot coiled in the pit of his stomach, and Kent wasn\u2019t sure whether it was pleasure over Chandler using his first name or embarrassment that this simple thing could affect him so much. It was an all too familiar mix of sensations, one he\u2019d almost grown used to in the years since the DI had joined them. <\/p>\n

Sitting down at his desk Kent glanced up, eyes sliding easily past his co-workers and their still-quiet voices, past Miles, who was once more hovering in the doorway, until they found Chandler. He was still radiating tension, probably would for days, but he was straightening his shirt and tie and the crisis had obviously passed. Nodding to himself Kent decided that for once it was okay to allow himself the pleasure of having done a little something to ease this man\u2019s burden. His world had been so dark and lonely in the past weeks, months even, it felt lighter for knowing he had done something good for a change.<\/p>\n

Of course the day did not end there - the deaths meant reams of paperwork that the higher-ups wanted yesterday in order to prove that they themselves had not contributed to the unfortunate end of this highly-publicised case. The whole team knuckled down, cups of strong tea replacing the booze from their interrupted celebration, and it was late before first Riley, grabbing Ed on her way out, then Mansell, who mentioned going to see Erica with a baleful look in Kent\u2019s direction, and finally Miles took their leave. The latter stopped by Kent\u2019s desk and ordered in his usual short tone: \u201cMake sure his nibs leaves when you do. And by this I mean you walk him to his car and see him drive off.\u201d Looking at his watch the DS added, \u201cAt this time the reporters will have gone, but make sure no one bothers him. They\u2019ll have their pound of flesh, but not today. Understood, Kent?\u201d<\/p>\n

Kent nodded and his face must have been suitably serious, because he was rewarded with a \u201cGood lad\u201d thrown over Miles\u2019 shoulder as he left the ready room. Stretching, his aching shoulders and neck reminded him how long he\u2019d been sitting at his desk with only the occasional trip for another cup of tea. He looked over to where Chandler was working with his back hunched over, eyes fixed on the paper in front of him, and realised that the boss had not even done that. It was not something he kept track of consciously, more like a reflex, this awareness of Chandler\u2019s presence.<\/p>\n

Determined Kent walked to the door of the DI\u2019s office, left ajar by Miles on his way out. For a moment he hovered there before clearing his throat, \u201cSir, maybe it\u2019s time to head home?\u201d It sounded more like a question than he\u2019d have liked, but at least it made Chandler look up, so he forged ahead, \u201cI mean, it\u2019s late, everyone\u2019s already gone, and you haven\u2019t taken a break in hours. You\u2019ll work better after a bit of sleep. Sir.\u201d <\/p>\n

He added the honorific because Chandler\u2019s brow was drawn, giving him an almost angry appearance, and Kent remembered why it was usually Miles who did this sort of thing. He really had no business ordering his boss around like that. But there was fatigue in every line of Chandler\u2019s body, so Kent stood his ground, meeting the clouded gaze head-on.<\/p>\n

\u201cIs that what you think, Constable?\u201d The DI\u2019s voice was tight, sounding annoyed and too controlled by half, as if he was holding on to his composure by a thread. Kent had witnessed enough to know that this was probably exactly how it was, although it was not anger he feared. It made something inside of Kent hurt, seeing Chandler like this, and he was determined not to be sent away and leave the other man to face his demons by himself.<\/p>\n

It helped him keep his voice even: \u201cYes, sir, I do. I would even if Miles hadn\u2019t told me to make sure you went home. Or, if that\u2019s not an option,\u201d here he paused, taking a deep breath before plowing on, \u201cwe could go somewhere, have a drink, just not think<\/em> for a while. But I\u2019m not leaving you alone.\u201d <\/p>\n

This time he very deliberately did not tack on the \u201csir\u201d, forcing himself not to fidget. This was twice in one night that he\u2019d left himself wide open emotionally, and it\u2019d be all too easy for Chandler, not good with people and relationships to begin with, to really hit him where it hurt in his current state. <\/p>\n

Kent swallowed, hard, as seconds went by without a reply from his superior, who was looking at him as if he was a puzzle he was unable to solve. Or maybe he was just thinking of a way to politely tell Kent to fuck off, that he\u2019d crossed a line. What did Kent know, after all, since all he\u2019d been doing recently was being eaten up with envy and hurting other people because of it. Still, years of observing his DI closely, maybe a bit too much so, made him stay instead of bolt from the room. <\/p>\n

It paid off when Chandler put down the pot of tiger balm he\u2019d been turning between his fingers absentmindedly and levered himself out of his seat with the ill grace of someone who\u2019d been hunched over in one position for much too long. <\/p>\n

\u201cAlright, Kent, if you insist.\u201d The smile on his face was faint and obviously forced, but Kent appreciated the effort, not so much for his own sake but for Chandler\u2019s, because it meant he was regaining some of his balance. \u201cDrinks it is. After all, I did agree to it earlier.\u201d<\/p>\n

So much for Kent\u2019s hope that Chandler hadn\u2019t noticed his Freudian slip. No matter that this was something he had wished for, dreamed of, now that it was about to become real he felt completely out of his depth and wished Miles hadn\u2019t left. Hell, he\u2019d take Ed or Riley, even Mansell, to serve as a buffer and make this more of a normal after-work round at the pub. But they were all comfortable at home (or at Erica\u2019s, but that was not something Kent wanted to consider right now), so there was nothing to it but put on a brave face and do his best not to make this too awkward.<\/p>\n

He realised his boss was looking at him expectantly, coat in hand, and blushed even harder. In his haste to grab his own jacket he knocked his chair into his desk and, without considering it, paused to rearrange the dislodged pen, pencil sharpener and notebook, taking his watch and phone from their places next in the neatly arranged line. When he had shrugged into his coat he looked up and caught a strange look on Chandler\u2019s face, fleeting but definitely there. Instantly his own face heated up again and he prayed the DI didn\u2019t think he was mocking him. But before he could attempt an explanation or apology, Chandler nodded brusquely and gestured to the door. \u201cReady?\u201d<\/p>\n

Kent bit back another \u201cyes, sir\u201d and settled for a nod and the suggestion of a pub a couple of streets away where they were less likely to encounter anyone from the station. Chandler hummed in agreement but was obviously lost somewhere in his head, and Kent fought the urge to keep checking whether he was still walking next to him. In one of his sidelong glances he did notice that one of the DI\u2019s hands was in his coat pocket where he was doubtlessly fondling the tiger balm stashed there, but other than that Chandler seemed calm. They walked the short distance to the pub in silence, but Kent was quite sure it was a comfortable one.<\/p>\n

Once there they secured a spot at a table and Kent got the first round. He had a beer, figuring he needed a clear head if he didn\u2019t want to embarrass himself (further, that was), but Chandler chose vodka, something fancy, or at least not Smirnoff, the only vodka Kent had ever tried. They settled into their seats and sipped in silence for a while, letting the hum of voices and background music wash over them. After a while Kent became much too aware of Chandler\u2019s elbow next to his, the warmth of his body, the line of his neck, slightly bowed as he intently watched his hands cupping his drink. It was too easy to imagine those elegant fingers drawing lines on Kent\u2019s skin instead of into the condensation of the cold glass.<\/p>\n

The next sip of beer went down the wrong end and Kent coughed, eyes tearing up. He\u2019d gotten quite good at keeping that kind of thought at bay, but it was hard with Chandler so close, lost in his head but without most of his usual reserve, his defences probably still depleted from his earlier melt-down. Still, Kent almost jumped out of his skin when the hands he\u2019d just been fantasising about patted him on the back. Chandler was not usually prone to touching his subordinates (or anyone, really), but there he was, one hand on Kent\u2019s back, the other at his elbow, inquiring with a worried look in his eyes, \u201cEmerson?\u201d<\/p>\n

Again his first name, and even wheezing and with watering eyes, Kent couldn\u2019t stop the way his stomach did a funny little flip at the sound. He turned towards Chandler, the motion seemingly unavoidable, like a flower turning towards the sun, and swore he could feel the fingers on his arm tighten. He attempted some words of reassurance, feeble as they were in the face of the insistent bouts of coughing, \u201cSorry, sorry - \u2018m fine.\u201d<\/p>\n

Still Chandler remained where he was, right in Kent\u2019s space, one hand now rubbing small circles on Kent\u2019s back, heat seeping through three layers of fabric. His eyes were creased uncertainly, as if he wasn\u2019t quite sure what he was doing, but he didn\u2019t stop, and Kent could feel himself sway ever closer, although there already was hardly any space between them. His mind must have still been befuddled, too, because the first thing he heard himself say, once he was mostly recovered and had wiped his eyes, couldn\u2019t possibly have come from him in a sane state of mind. \u201cYou called me \u2018Emerson\u2019.\u201d<\/p>\n

Chandler\u2019s eyes were wide, whether in confusion or mortification Kent wasn\u2019t certain. Since this was apparently the day where he dug himself a hole to China, he realised that at some point he\u2019d trapped the hand Chandler was still resting on his arm beneath his own. He snatched his fingers away as if he\u2019d burned them, not all of the red colouring his face stemming from the coughing. Staring at the collar of Chandler\u2019s shirt, he mumbled, \u201cUm, sorry, sir. For everything.\u201d<\/p>\n

Something in the DI\u2019s face slid shut and the reply was clipped, short, \u201cNo, no, you did nothing wrong, I\u2019m sure. I<\/em> apologise for overstepping, Constable.\u201d <\/p>\n

With that the hand on Kent\u2019s back vanished as he moved away, putting some distance between them. It was barely a few inches, but the intent was clear, and Kent suddenly felt as if he\u2019d somehow messed up. Again, that was. <\/p>\n

His rank had never sounded quite so formal, and suddenly Kent hated it. There\u2019d been a moment where they hadn\u2019t been DI and DC, boss and subordinate, and with one sentence he\u2019d managed to put all the tension back into the lines of Chandler\u2019s face and body. Before he could think better of it, he curled his fingers around the hand with which Chandler was again cradling his glass and loosened its tight grip. <\/p>\n

\u201cYou didn\u2019t. Not at all. No one calls me \u2018Emerson\u2019, that\u2019s all, not even my mum - but I like it when you do...\u201d He trailed off, because he didn\u2019t know what to call Chandler - certainly not \u2018sir\u2019, which would defeat the purpose. Not that he was sure what exactly his purpose was except to make sure Chandler knew that, where Kent was concerned, there was no line to overstep. Therefore, seeing the man next to him swallowing hard while glancing back and forth between their hands and Kent\u2019s face, he figured in for a penny, in for a pound - and in a worst case scenario he could always put in for a transfer. <\/p>\n

\u201cDon\u2019t know if you\u2019ve noticed, but I pretty much like everything you do. Have for ages. You can ask Skip - or anyone, really.\u201d He shrugged deprecatingly and (unable to look the other man in the eyes) fixed on the sight of his fingers still holding Chandler\u2019s. Only the fact that Chandler hadn\u2019t pulled away gave him the courage to stay seated and continue, \u201cI\u2019m sorry if this is completely inappropriate, but I figured you should know, especially after today. I don\u2019t care what the papers write or what the rumour mill says, sir, I\u2019m proud you\u2019re my DI.\u201d<\/p>\n

He wasn\u2019t sure what to expect after his outburst, but it certainly wasn\u2019t for Chandler to get up abruptly, dislodging Kent\u2019s grip. His face was unreadable and his eyes fixed somewhere in the middle distance, usually a sign that he was teetering close to the edge. With a sinking heart Kent figured he\u2019d gone too far and was about to be publicly reprimanded - or worse. Instead, Chandler\u2019s quiet, stumbling words, barely audible over the din of the pub, came out sounding almost like a question, \u201cCome outside with me, Const\u2026 Kent\u2026 Emerson.\u201d<\/p>\n

Without waiting for a reply, he turned and moved purposefully towards the exit. Kent got up so quickly, he toppled his chair and had to fumble hastily for his coat before it ended up on the dirty floor. He managed to catch up to Chandler just as the other man hesitated outside of the door before heading in the opposite direction to the station. Kent hurried to keep up, still shrugging into his coat and completely in the dark as to what the DI\u2019s goal was.<\/p>\n

They\u2019d turned two corners, and Kent was just about to ask where they might be going when Chandler stopped walking as suddenly as he\u2019d started. Surprised, Kent collided with the taller man, stumbled and swore under his breath, but Chandler\u2019s hands were there to steady him. He was let go again almost immediately, but something in the way Chandler had reacted started a low burn in his stomach and he looked up at the other man inquiringly, with less trepidation than he\u2019d felt just seconds before. \u201cSir?\u201d<\/p>\n

Suddenly there were lips on his, a hasty, inelegant kiss that was more pain than pleasure and lasted only a second before Chandler pulled away, rubbing his reddening cheeks violently. He swallowed visibly, obviously fighting with himself, and as always Kent wished he could make things easier for him. He\u2019d almost decided to take yet another risk and reach out when Chandler finally spoke, his voice low and again almost a question, \u201cJoe. Call me Joe.\u201d<\/p>\n

Hearing this, one kind of tension left Kent\u2019s body only to be replaced with an altogether different kind, and he couldn\u2019t suppress a probably ridiculously giddy smile as he repeated the name, savouring it on his tongue, \u201cJoe.\u201d<\/p>\n

He tried to catch Chandler\u2019s (Joe\u2019s<\/em>) eyes, but they were fixed on the tub of tiger balm Chandler was once again turning with tense fingers. Impulsively Kent repeated his earlier motion and caught the restless hand in one of his, \u201cIt\u2019s alright. Whatever it is, it\u2019s alright, I promise.\u201d<\/p>\n

Now Chandler did look up, his eyes reflecting the light of the streetlamps. His voice was still tight, but there was the hint of a smile in the corner of his mouth. \u201cI\u2026 I must confess I\u2019m not sure how we got here. You must know that relationships are not easy for me. Yet there you are, nothing like anything I ever imagined - my subordinate, a\u2026 a man, someone who\u2019s seen me at my worst.\u201d He hesitated again, and Kent fought the urge to embrace him. He needed to be sure, and he suspected Chandler needed to say the words, spell things out. \u201cToday\u2026 today has been difficult, but you\u2019re still here. You\u2019re always here, I don\u2019t know how I never noticed before. I think I must have, even if it wasn\u2019t consciously done. In any case, I do now. Emerson. And I want to apologise - and thank you.\u201d<\/p>\n

Chandler\u2019s chest heaving with the effort, the words died away. Kent\u2019s pulse was hammering in his ears, he felt almost faint, only the sensation of Chandler\u2019s hand in his anchoring him. Realising he needed to respond or risk spooking the other man again, he roused himself and impulsively touched Chandler\u2019s cheek, skin slightly rough against his palm, saying firmly, \u201cI can\u2019t say I ever thought you would - notice, I mean. But I\u2019m glad you have, Joe.\u201d Releasing the smile he\u2019d been keeping in check he finished, \u201cAnd now I\u2019d like to kiss you properly, if that\u2019s alright with you.\u201d<\/p>\n

He sensed Chandler\u2019s shaky nod rather than seeing it, since he didn\u2019t wait for a reply and simply closed the space separating them. He could feel tension in the lips touching his, but it lasted only a second before a sigh escaped and Chandler relaxed against him - not just his mouth, opening for Kent\u2019s tentative tongue, but his whole body, which seemed to want to wrap itself around Kent\u2019s smaller frame. <\/p>\n

Kent had never considered how they might fit together, had never allowed himself more than the occasional guilty fantasy that had him shudder and come over his hand all too soon. But now he quickly learned how to angle his head upwards in order to allow Chandler full access to his mouth, how to slide one hand inside his coat and around his waist while his other hand trailed along the back of the taller man\u2019s neck. All the while Joe\u2019s arms were enveloping him, long fingers trailing up and down his back, leaving sparks of pleasure in their wake even through the fabric of his clothes. <\/p>\n

It made him impatient for more, and after what felt like hours of them kissing, bodies pressed together as if they were teenagers, Kent broke away, albeit only a few inches. His hands slid around, tracing Joe\u2019s jaw, the kiss-swollen curve of his lips, and he could barely believe how utterly undone the DI looked. It sent blood rushing to Kent\u2019s cock, knowing that he was the cause of it, and his voice sounded hoarse and hungry to his own ears as he whispered, \u201cCome home with me.\u201d<\/p>\n

Joe swallowed, and Kent could feel his fingers twist against the small of his back. His eyes, pupils blown, flicked down to Kent\u2019s mouth, his tongue snuck out to wet his lips nervously. Kent realised he could read Joe as if he was speaking, and the thought made him grin widely, probably worrying Joe in its incongruity with his previous mood, so he said quickly, \u201cI\u2019d also be more than happy to come home with you<\/em> instead.\u201d<\/p>\n

He was still smiling and leaned in to kiss Joe, who kissed him back without hesitation despite the surprised look on his face. When they parted, Kent added more quietly, \u201cJoe, I know you. And it\u2019s obvious you\u2019d feel more comfortable in familiar surroundings, not in my digs. Just for the record, though, they are clean and absolutely would pass inspection.\u201d Joe was still staring at him with wide eyes, shaking his head slightly in wonderment, but his arms had tightened their hold on Kent, so he wasn\u2019t really worried that he\u2019d gone too far. He continued anyway, \u201cIf you\u2019d rather, though, we could also go our separate ways. Could take it slow. Could even pretend this never happened. It\u2019s up to you.\u201d<\/p>\n

It felt strange to be the one with the answers for a change, the one taking charge, when it was usually the other way around with them, but it also felt deeply and utterly right, the same way it felt right to stand on this street corner in the middle of the night with Joe\u2019s arms around him, his mouth still tingling from kissing. Without thinking, Kent traced Joe\u2019s lips with a thumb and was rewarded with a shuddering intake of breath and a touch of tongue. Kent\u2019s eyes slid shut involuntarily, so he was taken by surprise when Joe captured his mouth for a kiss so down and dirty, it was all Kent could do to hold on to Joe\u2019s broad shoulders and respond in kind.<\/p>\n

Both of them were panting when they broke for air, and Kent could clearly feel the outline of Joe\u2019s erection against his hip. He was just as hard and knew they were only a couple of kisses away from public indecency. Chandler seemed to realise the same, releasing Kent from his embrace and settling his hands instead against the front of Kent\u2019s coat, unconsciously beginning to smooth its creases. <\/p>\n

His voice sounded as wrecked as he looked, \u201cYou... I don\u2019t think I could pretend this never happened, even if I wanted to. Although as your superior officer it would certainly be the right course of action.\u201d A tendril of uncertainty snaked through the haze of Kent\u2019s bliss, but this time it was Joe who appeared to be able to read Kent\u2019s mind, reassuring him instantly, \u201cBut I don\u2019t want to. What I want is indeed to take you to my place. You can show me yours another time. Alright, Emerson?\u201d<\/p>\n

Kent figured he\u2019d never nodded quite so enthusiastically. Chandler was smiling, too, and when they set off for the station, they walked side by side, arms brushing, and Kent could feel anticipation bubble up in him, making him feel almost giddy. They reluctantly separated at Joe\u2019s car, Kent taking his vespa. It wouldn\u2019t do, after all, to arrive at work together. Still, the cool night air helped clear his head, and when he reached the DI\u2019s address he was no longer quite so overwhelmed.<\/p>\n

Joe was waiting in front of his block of flats, and they wordlessly went in together. Once inside, there was a short moment of awkwardness when Chandler went through what was obviously a routine of locking the door again, twice, setting down his keys into a small bowl and removing his coat and shoes, carefully placing them in precise alignment. Noticing Kent hovering uncertainly in the hallway, the DI blushed and squeezed his eyes shut for a moment before saying hoarsely, \u201cI\u2019m sorry. I\u2026 don\u2019t have a lot of visitors. You\u2019ll have to be patient with me, I\u2019m afraid.\u201d<\/p>\n

The pained embarrassment in Joe\u2019s eyes was enough to override Kent\u2019s discomfort, and he quickly stepped closer, wrapping his arms around the other man. A part of him felt elated at the ease with which Joe responded to his embrace, the rest was filled with tenderness, which he hoped showed in his voice. \u201cDon\u2019t worry. Remember, there\u2019s nothing you can do could put me off.\u201d Embarrassed by the gratitude that lit up Joe\u2019s face at his words, he quickly added much more lightly, \u201cNow, tell me where to put my shoes and jacket, and then maybe you could show me your bedroom?\u201d<\/p>\n

Joe\u2019s smile somehow managed to be both relieved and wicked as he helped Kent out of his coat, hands lingering on his shoulders for just a moment. Kent deposited his shoes where indicated, making sure they stood neatly parallel to Chandler\u2019s, a gesture that was acknowledged with a grateful smile, and then followed him down the hall. Passing the kitchen, Joe asked, voice betraying his nerves, \u201cI could offer you some tea, if you like. I only have green, though.\u201d<\/p>\n

Kent gave in to an impulse and took Joe\u2019s hand in his, squeezing it lightly. He shook his head with a grin. \u201cThanks, but I\u2019m really much more interested in the bedroom right now. Maybe in the morning, yeah?\u201d<\/p>\n

Joe tightened his grip on Kent\u2019s hand and smiled back, then opened the next door and ushered him inside. The room was just as orderly as Kent had imagined, no knick-knacks anywhere, almost like a hotel, but he did not get the chance for longer scrutiny, Chandler\u2019s tall form blocking his view. Then urgent lips were on his and he found himself being pushed back against the wall. Pleased surprise rushing through him, he let his hands slide over Joe\u2019s back, their kiss deepening until they were both achingly hard and rutting impatiently against one another. <\/p>\n

Chandler had inserted a strong thigh between Kent\u2019s legs, and the friction was both too much and not enough. Kent tore his mouth away for long enough to pant, \u201cJoe. Bed. Now.\u201d <\/p>\n

Apparently words with more than one syllable were as impossible as sentences, but Joe grasped his meaning and reluctantly stepped away. He was in complete disarray, hair mussed from Kent\u2019s fingers, shirt rumpled and halfway out of his trousers, lips swollen, cheeks bright red and eyes dark with arousal. It was a sight that left Kent dry-mouthed, and he quickly tore his own shirt over his head before pouncing, pushing Joe onto the mattress and straddling him.<\/p>\n

For a moment they just stared at one another, then Chandler licked his lips and Kent was lost. At least he managed to retain enough of his wits to begin to unbutton Joe\u2019s waistcoat and shirt even as they sank into another hungry kiss. Finally, his hands met the warm flesh and muscle of Joe\u2019s chest, and he let his mouth wander downwards, licking and nibbling the flushed skin, delighting in the small sounds that escaped Chandler, wordless noises mixed with curses and what might be his name.<\/p>\n

Scooting back, Kent slid somewhat inelegantly off the bed, coming to kneel between Joe\u2019s spread thighs, and Joe\u2019s eyes widened when it became obvious to him what Kent intended. Before he removed the once neatly-pressed trousers and white boxer-briefs, however, Kent allowed himself to nuzzle along the hard line of Chandler\u2019s erection, pressing his cheek against it and inhaling the dark musk. <\/p>\n

He had imagined this, but never had he considered it might actually come true, and his heart beat a quick, excited staccato. Taking another deep breath, this one more to steady himself, he finally removed the last of Joe\u2019s clothes, socks falling to the ground alongside the rest. Just when Kent had started peppering teasing kisses everywhere except where they were most wanted, however, although his arousal was unflagging, Joe made a small noise that Kent immediately recognised.<\/p>\n

Looking up, he took in the small unhappy line between Joe\u2019s eyes and the tenseness in his hands, which were fisting the sheets. Not to stop himself from touching Kent, but something altogether different and much more familiar. Only for a split second did Kent feel disappointed, then he shook his head slightly and smiled reassuringly. \u201cShh, don\u2019t worry. Do you want to put your clothes away or shall I?\u201d<\/p>\n

The relief flooding Joe\u2019s features soothed even the tiny petulant voice in the back of Kent\u2019s head that had imagined all the DI needed was his kiss and everything would be sunshine and roses. This was no fairy tale, and Kent would much rather have this Chandler, real and flawed, than any perfect fantasy. Resigned, Kent sat back on his heels and watched as Joe sat up. Instead of instantly beginning to tidy, however, he took Kent\u2019s face in his hands and leaned down, kissing him slow and sweet. Finally breaking away, his voice was low and full of a warmth that immediately flowed into Kent and settled in his stomach. \u201cI\u2019ll do it. Please, make yourself comfortable on the bed, if you like.\u201d<\/p>\n

Holding back a small sigh, Kent complied, climbing back onto the mattress and leaning against the headboard to take in the strange scene of his boss picking up and folding clothes while completely naked. Kent\u2019s cock twitched a bit at the sight of all that skin, reminding him that his lower body was still completely clothed. He quickly shed trousers, boxers and socks, but took care to fold them neatly before settling back down. He was rewarded with a sharp intake of breath when Joe glanced up from his task and noticed Kent\u2019s new state of undress. <\/p>\n

With a grin, Kent offered up his bundle of clothes, gratified by the way Joe\u2019s eyes roamed his body hungrily as he attempted to put them onto a chair without looking away. Teasing, Kent trailed a hand down his chest but had to suppress a gasp of his own when he reached his nipples, his skin feeling hypersensitive under Chandler\u2019s scrutiny. His cock was already at half-mast, and he fisted it loosely, eyes sliding shut with pleasure. <\/p>\n

However, the next moment the bed dipped and a hand with long, elegant fingers joined his own, and a pair of hungry lips attached themselves to first one nipple, then the other. This time there was no suppressing the groan that built deep in Kent\u2019s chest, and he ran his fingers into Joe\u2019s hair, holding him to his chest. Not that Joe seemed in any hurry to move away, swirling his tongue around the hard nubs and then catching them gently between his teeth, making Kent buck and dig his fingers deeper into Joe\u2019s scalp.<\/p>\n

Their entwined hands were jerking Kent\u2019s cock just this side of too gently, and it was a while before Kent even noticed the way Chandler was pushing his own hard erection against his hip, obviously seeking friction. It reminded him of what he\u2019d been about to do before the cleanup break, and he finally managed to pull Joe\u2019s head up, catching his mouth in a deep kiss. Already the taste of him was almost familiar, with the slight tang of vodka from the pub clinging to every corner Kent could reach with his tongue. He only indulged for a little while, however, then he pushed Joe gently onto his back with a firm hand on his chest. <\/p>\n

\u201cLet me,\u201d he smiled when Chandler made to protest, and scooted off the bed, settling onto his knees on the smooth parquet floor. His knees wouldn\u2019t thank him for this, but the heat in Joe\u2019s eyes was all the incentive he needed, and without further hesitation he wrapped a hand around the base of the hard cock curving upwards in front of his face. The skin was hot and silky beneath his touch, and Kent\u2019s mouth began to water in anticipation. After licking his lips one last time, he leaned in and took Joe deep inside his mouth. No playing around, just long, hard sucks, and almost instantly he was rewarded with a drawn-out groan from Chandler that sounded as if it was torn from his chest.<\/p>\n

Kent looked up through his lashes and felt his own dick twitch at the sight of Joe with his head thrown back, his body almost arching off the mattress, his fists seemingly the only thing anchoring him. His flush spread halfway down his chest, and if Kent hadn\u2019t had his mouth already full he would have loved to taste it, see whether the skin was hotter there. A plan for another time, and Kent smiled around the thick cock, the head of which was nudging the back of his throat. It wasn\u2019t particularly long, but that only meant Kent was actually able to swallow most of it without gagging, leaving his right hand free to fondle Joe\u2019s balls. His other hand was tight around his own erection, propelling Kent ever closer to climax.<\/p>\n

\u201cEmerson!\u201d The gasp of his name was accompanied by urgent hands tugging at his hair, sending spikes to pain-pleasure from Kent\u2019s scalp down his spine. Not stopping his ministration, he shook his head slightly and hummed in encouragement. With another gasp and an involuntary bucking of his hips, Chandler erupted down his throat, and Kent\u2019s eyes watered a little. Still, he managed to swallow everything, keeping his mouth lax around Joe\u2019s cock until a breathless voice ordered, \u201cCome here. You didn\u2019t have to do that\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

Climbing onto his feet and suppressing a wince when his knees protested slightly, Kent grinned down into Chandler\u2019s flushed face and teased, \u201cMuch tidier this way, yeah?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2026 are impossible,\u201d Joe snorted, and the next moment Kent was on his back, with Joe\u2019s amused face looming over him, before he leaned down and kissed the living daylights out of him. Kent\u2019s arousal skyrocketed again the moment their tongues tangled, becoming almost unbearable when one of Chandler\u2019s elegant hands (long since an object of fascination for Kent) wrapped firmly around his leaking erection.<\/p>\n

He slid his own hands around Joe\u2019s middle, felt the muscles in his back flex under his touch as he moved them upwards, his fingers digging sharply into broad shoulders when Chandler caught his lower lip with his teeth and pulled gently. Gasping for breath, Kent threw his head back, cursing when Joe immediately latched onto his neck, although he was careful not to leave a mark. All the while his fist was tight around Kent\u2019s cock, using his precum to smooth the way, and Kent only realized he was begging when Joe stopped, only long enough to grab some lotion from the bedside table. <\/p>\n

\u201cOh, fuck me<\/em>,\u201d he groaned when, in addition to coating his cock, Joe slicked himself before rolling them over. Kent ended up on top, his erection slipping easily between Joe\u2019s strong thighs. It felt like heaven, being cradled by Chandler\u2019s body, and Kent thrust down, felt Chandler meet him with a hoarse moan, his spent cock twitching against Kent\u2019s stomach. It was too much, and Kent tumbled over the edge so abruptly his arms collapsed under him. Luckily Joe was there, holding him securely, murmuring words into Kent\u2019s hair that he was too preoccupied to understand.<\/p>\n

When he finally gathered his wits again, he lifted his head and found Chandler watching him intently, eyes soft with something so close to awe, Kent felt himself melt. Smiling sleepily, he pressed a kiss to Chandler\u2019s lips and whispered, \u201cThank you. That was fucking brilliant.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWas it? I wasn\u2019t sure whether you\u2026 whether you\u2019d expect more,\u201d Joe responded with more uncertainty than Kent could take, and he shook his head (whispering \u201cof course not, you stupid man!\u201d, for once completely unselfconscious) and kissed him until Chandler relaxed again. He still continued talking, though, obviously needing to get it out, \u201cWhen it comes to men, I\u2019ve only experimented a little in school, like everyone. I don\u2019t know if I\u2019ll ever be ready for anything more than this.\u201d He swallowed and added almost defiantly, as if Kent needed to have it spelled out, \u201cPenetration, I mean.\u201d<\/p>\n

Kent has to hold back a laugh, afraid that it\u2019d be taken the wrong way. His heart was so light, filled with so much affection, he felt as if he might float away. \u201cThat doesn\u2019t matter. A lot of blokes don\u2019t like it, there\u2019s so many other things we can do.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m glad,\u201d Joe replied softly, his arms snaking around Kent and holding him close. Kent\u2019s entire body was heavy with contentment, and he curled himself around Joe, head on his chest. Just for a moment, until he felt Joe begin to twitch slightly.<\/p>\n

Making sure to keep his voice light, Kent lifted himself to his elbows and smiled. \u201cGo and wash up. If you want me to be clean you better bring a washcloth, though; I don\u2019t plan on moving any time soon.\u201d <\/p>\n

Catching himself, he wondered for a second if he\u2019d gone too far, assumed too much, but Chandler\u2019s smile was soft with pleasure, even as he slid out of bed. Instead of leaving immediately, however, he paused and looked down at Kent, who felt himself begin to blush under the scrutiny. Finally, he leaned down, hands cupping Kent\u2019s face gently, and said, \u201cI don\u2019t want you to move. I like having you here.\u201d<\/p>\n

Then he finally went to the loo, after a kiss that was all tenderness, leaving Kent curled up in Chandler\u2019s spacious bed, smiling to himself (doubtlessly looking like a fool but not caring). He heard the water turn on, and a part of him wanted to put a lie to his earlier words, because the image of Chandler in the shower was rather enticing. But maybe that would be a bit presumptuous, at least until he\u2019d figured out what Joe needed to feel comfortable after something as unavoidably messy as sex. <\/p>\n

By the time Chandler returned, Kent was half-asleep, but not too sleepy to feel the warm, wet cloth that cleaned him, thoroughly but gently. When those big hands trailed over his back, Kent remembered his scars for the first time and held his breath a little. Joe continued his task without hesitation, however, before putting the cloth away and sliding back into bed, turning off the light. Sighing contentedly, Kent relaxed into the darkness, enjoying the warmth of Chandler\u2019s body against his own. <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m not good at bedsharing,\u201d Joe admitted in a low voice, pulling Kent back from the edge of sleep. \u201cI\u2019ll probably need to move away to sleep.\u201d<\/p>\n

Humming sleepily, he pressed a kiss to Joe\u2019s chest, above his heart. \u201cThat\u2019s fine, Joe. Just\u2026 hold me a while longer?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cFor as long as you like, Emerson.\u201d It was too dark to make out Chandler\u2019s features, but he could hear the smile in his voice and felt his arms tighten around him. <\/p>\n

Kent smiled into the darkness, feeling more at home in his own skin than he had in a long, long time. So this was what a fresh start felt like.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

All Kent wants is a fresh start.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_s2mail":"yes","footnotes":"","_links_to":"","_links_to_target":""},"categories":[336,335],"tags":[293,299],"series":[],"class_list":["post-1853","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-chandler-kent","category-whitechapel","tag-audience-adult","tag-genre-slash"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/shirasade.net\/fiction\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1853","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/shirasade.net\/fiction\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/shirasade.net\/fiction\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/shirasade.net\/fiction\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/shirasade.net\/fiction\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=1853"}],"version-history":[{"count":1,"href":"https:\/\/shirasade.net\/fiction\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1853\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":1854,"href":"https:\/\/shirasade.net\/fiction\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1853\/revisions\/1854"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/shirasade.net\/fiction\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=1853"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/shirasade.net\/fiction\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=1853"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/shirasade.net\/fiction\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=1853"},{"taxonomy":"series","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/shirasade.net\/fiction\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/series?post=1853"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}