Disclaimer: All characters are the property of MCA/Universal and Renaissance Pictures. I own nothing.
A/N: This story takes place around mid of season 3 after The Bitter Suite and before the One Against An Army episode. Please read & review, but no flames, only constructive criticism.
It was midday when Xena and Gabrielle were walking down the trail to the next town. "Xena, we can't do this." Gabrielle said suddenly.
Xena stopped short giving Gabrielle her famous quizzical 'look'. "Do what?" she asked, in that sweet voice of concern.
"We can't keep hiding these feelings. If we just keep traveling together with the emotions bottled up, it's going to destroy us. I love you Xena. I love you more than anything in the world, and I would risk my life to keep you by my side. Xena… you made me everything I am today." Gabrielle finished, with tears forming in her eyes.
"Oh… Gabrielle, that's the sweetest thing anyone has ever said to me. I have never heard you say anything that romantic. I love you, Gabrielle. You Made me what I am, you keep me from going back to my old ways. So, what do you say we go and find a little cave to rest up? We can continue in foot tomorrow." Xena replied, with tears flowing down her eyes.
Finding the cave was easy. Xena and Gabrielle made a bed in the corner, then started unpacking. Xena had been thinking, Does she love me as a friend? Or could it be more than that? While Xena was deciding what was the best way to tell her bard she meant a sexual relationship, Gabrielle was scratching away at her scroll.
"Xena, you have the strongest hands… do you think you could give me a backrub?" Gabrielle asked tensely, shaking her shoulders around.
"Of course, but only if you promise to give me one too!" Xena replied with her signature smile.
"I don't know the technique. You would have to teach it to me." Gabrielle stated.
The only response was Xena's chuckle from behind her hand. "Ok. First you have to take your shirt off, then lie face down on the blankets. Leave the rest to me." Xena commanded nicely.
Gabrielle did as she was told, and as the bard laid down, Xena could be sure that she saw a little smile escape her lips.