So, it would seem that the itch has not been satisfied. At all. These two are just far too much fun to write. I decided that I would work in moments of their relationship peppered throughout the actual story line. Please and enjoy and give me your feedback. Let me know if you spot any spelling or grammar issues. My normal proof-reader is not around and I always seem to miss something despite multiple readings.

Best wishes!

Tiny Finch

The Humble Heart

Ch. 2

Bilbo hissed in discomfort as he slowly eased himself down onto the ground. His feet ached, deeply. In fact, everything ached; body and mind. If Bilbo were pressed to put a word to the general mood of the company these past days, it would be 'irritable'… very, very irritable. Mirkwood had made complete fools of them. They were tired, stressed, and perhaps more than a little lost.

Personally, Bilbo put the full blame on Bombur. Fair or not, he was sure he wasn't alone in the sentiment.

"Wake up, you fat oaf," Gloin muttered, glaring over at Bombur's massive form.

Almost as if in response, Bombur snorted in his sleep, the whiskers around his nostrils fluttering in time with each deep breath. Everyone seemed to twitch at the sound, eyes zeroed in on the sleeping dwarf.

Wake up. For the love of all that is good, wake up!

He did not stir again and, everyone sagging in disappointment, they went about setting up their camp for the evening. For six miserable days Bombur had been in a deep sleep, cursed by the enchanted river. Bilbo curdled in frustration. They'd all tried so hard to avoid touching the water, but then Bombur went and fell straight in. Nothing could wake him and it was eventually realized, with a collective groan, that he would have to be carried. Bilbo had always like Bombur. He had been source of empathy and camaraderie when everyone else had doubted Bilbo's competence. But, decidedly, he did not begrudge anyone else in the company the opportunity to carry Bombur.

Bilbo looked about the group. A small fire had been kindled because, despite the dangers the forest posed, nobody seemed to have the energy for caution. The dwarves sat dejectedly on their bedrolls, nibbling on hard tack and bits of dried out cheese. While they were not necessarily starving, the food they did have lent nothing to everyone's moral. Bilbo was to the point where he'd rather not eat at all than to swallow another mouthful of the stuff.

Thorin was set apart from the group, eyes closed in thought. He looked spent, despite trying to be strong for the others. Something fluttered in Bilbo's chest and, blushing, he went about setting out his own bedroll. They had barely had the chance to touch since their stay at Beorn's halls. It almost felt cruel, now that they finally seemed to be on the same page. Bilbo wanted to be embraced like the last time, to be completely devoured. Much to his horror, Bilbo felt the beginnings of an erection stir. He pulled his legs together in embarrassment, irked. Annoyance and lust did not combine well, resulting an odd mixture.

"Bilbo and I will take the first watch for tonight. Fili and Kili will take the second," Thorin suddenly spoke, remaining where he was, leaning against a large tree.

Bilbo perked up at the news, excitement sending a thrill down his spine.

"We took part in the watch last night," Fili complained, sprawled out on the ground.

Thorin answered by shooting him a withering glare.

"You are young, and have keener eyes than the rest of us. You both will manage," Balin said, glancing over at the pair. "Mind you, show some respect."

Chagrinned, the two brothers nodded in deference before hunkering down. Silence fell over the camp as everyone settled in for the night. Their journey through Mirkwood had been particularly difficult and, exhausted; the company was quickly pulled into slumber. Bilbo felt tense, sitting stiffly on his mat. The erection had not abated and, with the passing of each silent minute, it seemed to grow. It was becoming painful.

Bilbo jumped at the sound of Thorin's voice.

"Come here," he said quietly, gesturing to the spot next to him.

Awkwardly, he stood, trying to hide his arousal by grabbing his bedding and taking it with him. As he approached, Thorin gave him a warm smile. It almost looked loving. Bilbo's heart leapt. He made to sit next to him, but was stopped by a firm arm.

"No. Here," Thorin said, pulling him onto his lap.

Bilbo felt his face grow unbearably hot. What if the others saw them sitting in such an intimate way?

"Thorin… what if we're seen?" Bilbo whispered, squeaking slightly as Thorin nestled him in between his legs, his small back pressed against Thorin's broad chest.

"Once a dwarf is asleep, it would take a whole goblin horde to awaken him. Besides, if we are seen, I will simply say I was comforting our poor little burglar, who was overwhelmed and homesick," Thorin answered, bending down to nuzzle against Bilbo's neck.

The retort on his lips was cut short as Thorin wrapped his arms around him, squeezing Bilbo tightly. Trembling, he allowed the embrace, heartbeat increasing. He pushed the bedroll down against his groin, desperately willing his arousal to go away. It strained against his hands, demanding attention.

"I have missed this," Thorin said into Bilbo's hair.

His breath tickled.

"Stop. You're making it worse," Bilbo muttered, craning his neck away from Thorin's lips.

"Hmm? Making what worse?" Thorin asked. Bilbo could not tell if he was playing with him or merely unaware of his current state.

"Enough, I'm getting up," Bilbo said, attempting to stand.

"No, no. Stay, I want you close-," Thorin said, pulling Bilbo back down, grabbing at the hobbit's small waist.

Thorin stilled as his hands brushed against the source of Bilbo's irritation. Quick to react, one warm hand gently cupped him, feeling up the size and hardness. Bilbo clapped a hand over his mouth. He was so pent up he could scream at the touch. Thorin at first said nothing, taking the time to slowly run his thumb up and down the length.

"Well… I can not say that I hadn't harbored similar thoughts," Thorin said, his voice a low rumble in Bilbo's ear.

Curse him, the dwarf was purring in satisfaction.

"However… I didn't think simply sitting with me would make you this way," he chuckled.

Thorin gave him a gentle squeeze, rubbing the tip with his thumb. Excitement wetted the fabric.

"T-Thorin. Don't tease me. I don't like it- ah!" Bilbo bit at his knuckles, trying to keep his voice low.

Embarrassed, he knew he would come to orgasm soon if Thorin kept this up. Overcome with want, Bilbo quietly submitted to his large hand as it slipped over the hem of his clothing and down. If someone were to awaken… Bilbo didn't know if he could handle the humiliation.

"Rest assured, I am not teasing you," Thorin said. His other hand found its way up Bilbo's shirt, working at the buttons of his threadbare waistcoat. "I am very… truly pleased."

Waistcoat undone, Thorin palmed at Bilbo's chest through his shirt, feeling the soft skin and thin muscle. Bilbo's entire body jerked in response as Thorin softly pinched a nipple. At this, Bilbo could not stop the cry of surprise that broke free. They froze, casting a glance at the sleeping dwarves around them.

"I may have exaggerated a bit about the goblin horde. You would do best to keep your voice down, lest anyone sees that flustered face of yours," Thorin whispered into his ear, giving it a nibble.

"M-mean," Bilbo gasped, biting down on his bottom lip.

"Hm?" Thorin hummed. He flicked a finger over a taut nipple and noted with satisfaction the way Bilbo's body twitched in response. "Am I mean? You're so hard, I'm surprised you have not already come undone in my hand."

"It's weird," Bilbo said, sounding small.

"Have you never had this done to you?" Thorin asked, genuine surprise in his voice.

"No. I am not a woman, why would you-," Bilbo said, cutting short as Thorin pushed his hand under his shirt, meeting bare skin.

"Whether you are a woman or not, you really don't seem to mind." Thorin ran his hand over Bilbo's abdomen, noticing how thin the hobbit had become. He'd been adorably plump before, but he would be lying if he said the lean musculature Bilbo had acquired did not wet his appetite.

Bilbo writhed about in his grasp, at his mercy. He felt himself getting close. Thorin expertly stroked him, Bilbo's hips now moving in time with each pump. Each time Thorin teased a nipple, he felt a jolt of lighting straight down to his groin. He was breathing heavily, still struggling to keep from making too much noise. He groaned as Thorin ran his tongue down his neck, stopping to suckle at the nape.

It was simply too much.

His orgasm came crashing down and, for a brief moment, he saw nothing but white. With a deep moan, Bilbo emptied himself into Thorin's hand, shuddering with each spurt. He collapsed back against Thorin, mewling softly as the dwarf administered soft kisses along the shell of his ear. Satisfaction warmed his bones and he became putty in Thorin's arms. His was vaguely aware of Thorin wiping his seed drenched hand on the bedroll… wait- Bilbo's bedroll. Disgust ripped him away from the after glow.

"Whoa-Thorin!" Bilbo said, twisting in Thorin's arms to shoot him a glare.

Thorin did not offer him another opportunity to complain, instead taking Bilbo's face in his hands and kissing him deeply. Bilbo grumbled into the kiss, but eventually acquiesced, letting Thorin's tongue work its magic. He sighed into his mouth, lust again coursing through his blood stream. Day's worth of sweat clung to their skin, smelling pungent. The old Bilbo would have been repelled by the thought of living in such a filthy state. Now, after so much had transpired, he did not care. All Bilbo wanted was to wrap his arms around those shoulders and take Thorin deep inside.

Bilbo turned completely in Thorin's embrace, pushing them flush together, grinding. Thorin grasped hungrily at Bilbo's buttocks. Bilbo felt himself hardening again, Thorin sucking at his bottom lip causing him to moan softly. He raked his fingers through Thorin's braids before running his fingers gently along strong jaw line and trembling throat. Bilbo sucked his breath in, surprised as Thorin began to tug at his trousers, exposing his bottom to the cool air. He wanted it, badly, but…

"Hold on," Bilbo said, frantically reaching to still Thorin's hand.

"I want- no, I need you tonight, Bilbo. We've fasted from each other for far too long," Thorin said, groaning slightly in frustration.

He clutched at him possessively, pulling Bilbo up hard against his erection, showing him the evidence of his desire. Making a small sound, deep in his throat, he took Bilbo into another kiss. Thorin had lost all sense of caution.

"I know, oh, I know. But-," Bilbo said, breaking way from the kiss and looking hurriedly over his shoulder. "I can't do it like this… right in front of them. Please."

Thorin glowered at him, obstinate and hungry. Nervously, Bilbo licked his lips. A thought occurred to him. It was something he had wanted to try for a while, to return the favor from their last time. Slowly he leaned in and whispered into his ear, hoping he would take the bait. Thorin practically jumped to attention, eager.

Bilbo couldn't stop the smile that spread across his face, feeling tremendously fond of the stubborn dwarf.

"But, behind the tree. Please," Bilbo said, pushing himself up onto his feet.

"As you wish," Thorin responded. He took Bilbo gently by the wrist.

They quietly made their way around a large oak for shelter, careful to remain soft footed. Thorin began undoing his clothing.

"Wait, go fetch my water skin," he said, fingers paused over the cloth ties.

"Huh? Why?" Bilbo asked, confused.

Thorin gave him a wicked grin.

"Just go. You'll thank me for it."

Feeling slightly childish, Bilbo huffed and tiptoed back to the campsite. To his immense relief, everyone was still sound asleep. Having located the water, he returned, casting a suspicious glare at his companion.

"Here," he said, tossing the bag into Thorin's waiting hand.

Thorin released himself from the confines of his trousers. Feeling unsure of himself at the sight of Thorin's cock, Bilbo bit at his thumb nail.

"I'm not sure I follow what you'r- oh."

Bilbo watched, transfixed as Thorin poured the water over himself, cleaning the area. Thorin grimaced slightly, his erection softened from the contact with cold water. Water skin discarded, Thorin settled himself onto the ground and gave Bilbo an expectant look.

"Come now, that was for your benefit. Make it hard again," he said, smirking.

Face flushed red, Bilbo looked down at the ground, tugging at the hem of his shirt. He now felt incredibly bashful. Offering his services in this way now seemed to be a foolish choice. The act suddenly seemed overwhelming.

"I, uh, I've never done this before… So, you know, it might not be any good," Bilbo said, looking up to meet Thorin's eyes.

Bilbo felt butterflies in his stomach. Thorin's gaze was scalding in its intensity.

"Then I shall guide you. Come," Thorin said, beckoning.

Slowly, Bilbo dropped to his knees, crawling over to Thorin's lap. His smell hit Bilbo's nose, the intimacy of it exciting him. He took the erection in his hands, gingerly stroking. It reacted to his touch, the velvety skin throbbing beneath his fingers.

"Take the tip of it into your mouth, slowly. Take care not to use your teeth," Thorin instructed, placing a hand onto the top of Bilbo's head, urging him on.

Bilbo took a deep breath, observing the small bead of liquid now glistening at the top. It can't be much different from enjoying a piece of stick candy, right? Cautiously, he brought the tip to his lips, lapping at the skin. It was pleasantly soft against his tongue and he was immediately rewarded with the low hum Thorin let out. Encouraged, Bilbo parted his lips and took the heated member fully into his mouth. The taste of salt and skin filled his senses. There was a slightly bitter edge to the flavor he couldn't place.

Thorin dug his fingers into Bilbo's hair, gripping tightly.

" Mmhmm, like that. Take as much as you can… use your tongue," Thorin whispered, rolling his hips upwards to meet Bilbo's mouth.

It hit the back of his throat as Bilbo's nose met with the scruff of Thorin's pubic hair. He gagged slightly at the sensation, eyes watering. Feeling panicked, Bilbo looked up, seeking reassurance. Thorin's eyes were shut in concentration, brows pulled together. His lips were parted in a moan. He was lost in pleasure and the sight of it lifted Bilbo up higher than he'd ever gone before. It gave him deep satisfaction to know that he was the cause of that blissful expression.

Bilbo continued, taking care to caress the underside of his cock with his tongue as he bobbed his head up. He paused to kiss at the tip, marveling at how hard he had become. Operating on a hunch, Bilbo reached a hand up and gently took the sack into his palm, giving it a soft press. He smiled internally at Thorin's gasp of surprise. It was not as difficult as he had worried it would be. The motions came naturally to him. He touched and kissed all the places that he knew he himself would enjoy.

He had built up a rhythm, loving the way Thorin swelled against him with each smooth, sucking motion. Despite all of the bravado, Thorin was soft and delicate in his hand. With a light touch, he rolled each sphere in turn between his thumb and forefinger before running his fingers across the rough hair. Thorin sounded as if he was about to say something, but it was quickly muted as he worried his bottom lip with his teeth. He was shaking beneath Bilbo's touch. Bilbo had never felt so in control before and he reveled in the feeling. He felt big, watching Thorin Oakenshield unravel before him.

Bilbo gave a muffled squeak of surprise as Thorin quickened his thrusts, slipping in and out of the soft, wet contours of Bilbo's mouth in a near frenzied pace. Wet sounds filled the air, drool sliding down his chin and wetting the collar of his shirt.

"A-ah I'm about to- mmn," Thorin said in a shuddering breath, twitching with each stroke of Bilbo's lips.

Thorin seized up, pushing Bilbo down hard around his orgasm. Bilbo flailed about, clutching desperately to Thorin's legs as hot seed filled his mouth, thick and bitter. He gagged against the liquid, fighting the urge to retch. Willing himself, he swallowed it all down with each pulse, breathing heavily through flared nostrils. A hot tear slipped down Bilbo's cheek as he pushed away, coughing and gasping for air.

The intensity of Thorin's finish had caught him completely off guard. He shot him a rueful look, wiping at his mouth.

" You big fool… that was unfair," Bilbo grumbled. He choked slightly at the thick sensation in his throat.

Chuckling softly, Thorin reached for him. He pulled him into his arms, smoothing the tears from his cheeks with his thumbs, cradling his face.

"I am sorry. You were simply too good, I didn't stand a chance," he said. He kissed at the corner of Bilbo's mouth.

"Even so, you didn't have to choke me," Bilbo said, hiding his pleasure at Thorin's praise.

"Oh… 'm sorry… sorry," Thorin mumbled, too busy burying his face into Bilbo's neck. He held him tightly, tenderly.

Bilbo sighed, pleased despite the rough ending. His lower half was still standing at attention. Seconds, please. He took Thorin's hand and brought it down between his legs.

"Insatiable, are we?" Thorin laughed soft and low. "I suppose I can indulge you further."

"So confident," Bilbo teased, leaning his face up for a kiss.

A twig snapped next to them, footfall evident.

Time stopped there, horror rooted Bilbo to the spot. He looked up to see Fili standing there, mouth agape. They must've been such a sight with Bilbo straddling Thorin's waist; shirt undone and chest exposed… a faint trail of saliva still glistening on his chin.

"Oh… dear," Bilbo stammered, struck stupid.

Mortified, he buried his face in his hands. He would have scrambled away but quickly remembered that Thorin's groin was still unclothed, exposed. Bilbo stayed where he was, confident that his ears were steaming. He glanced out from between his fingers. Thorin said nothing. He merely looked at his nephew, an eyebrow raised. He made a quick jerk of his head, motioning towards the camp. His eyes were hard and cold.

"It's just me… only woke up to take a piss…" Fili said. His voice was faint, eyes glued on Bilbo, absorbing his state of undress.

Screwing his eyes shut in shame, Bilbo tugged his shirt closed. A horrible, awkward silence stretched between the three of them. Fili stood like a statue, eyes wide.

Finally, Thorin cleared his throat.

"Yes, right. Well, then… I will be going. My apologies," Fili said, tripping over his own feet in his haste to leave the scene.

They sat there for a while, Bilbo hyperventilating into Thorin's shirt. He couldn't believe how nonplussed Thorin seemed. He jumped in shock as Thorin wrapped his arms around him again. Some part of him had been worried that Thorin would reject him if they were ever discovered.

"Hush," he said. "Breath, you silly thing."

"Wha-what? I can't! He saw. SAW!" Bilbo whispered harshly, angrily squirming in Thorin's arms.

Thorin silenced him with a soft, warm kiss.

"I will speak with him. I am his uncle and king. He knows that I have a right to his silence," Thorin said.

"His silence?"

"Yes. Even if the others were to eventually discover us, no one will dare say a word," Thorin was calm and confident.

Bilbo was not convinced. The thought of the others catching them in a similarly compromising situation made him feel faint. Thorin gave him a reassuring smile.

"My choice of a bedmate is none of their concern," he said, cupping Bilbo's chin.

"Bedmate, huh?" Bilbo said, still cross.

Thorin was quiet for a moment, weighing Bilbo with his eyes.

"Lover, then."

Bilbo blinked, trying to process the word that had just left Thorin's lips.

"What did you just say?" Bilbo felt his pulse quicken.

"Lover."

For a moment, Bilbo didn't know what to say. He simply stared at him. Inside his heart was soaring. He took a shaking breath.

"Say it again… Please," he finally managed.

Thorin smiled softly, pulling Bilbo forward. Forehead pressed to forehead, he nuzzled their noses together.

"Lover."

"… Again."

"Alright… Lover."

Bilbo smiled a big, toothy grin. Despite the gloom of nighttime, he felt as though the sun was shining brilliantly.

End.