As per usual I don't own Person of Interest. Enjoy this next chapter!
After experiencing how John was in the bedroom, Harold found it rather hard to look at pocket squares and ties the same. Not to mention being in that particular house or its bedroom and seeing them in the same light for that matter either. However, he wasn't one to complain since it was in that very house almost a year prior that John had insisted on cooking dinner and their relationship had progressed into something more.
Seeing as how he was running yet another program that needed no input or instruction from him, Harold couldn't help but use his idle time to pause and think back on how it had all started with the two of them being fairly serious. As the program continued on, Harold reclined in the high back cushioned chair – the one that John had ordered and custom made for him – and closed his eyes, allowing that evening at the SoHo house to replay in his mind.
"You know Harold, considering how much you like to dine out, how about we dine in for a change? While I can't make the same grade of cuisine as you're used to, I'm sure I can still whip us up something to your liking. What do you say? Our latest number Mr. Dunlap is fine and Fusco is questioning him. After that, Shaw will take things from there if any other problems come up."
Harold gave John a look and wondered what the operative was scheming this time. It wouldn't be the first and he knew for a fact it wouldn't be the last of Mr. Reese's attempts at trying to get to know him. "I suppose how well you cook has yet to be determined, Mr. Reese. Since you seem so sure of your culinary skills, I'll finish a few things here, and then I'll meet you at the house. I'll possibly be bringing Bear along with me. I take it a nice Red Wine shall go with whatever you plan to make?" Harold handed John the key to the SoHo house which was one of the few of his many properties that he stayed at the most in that particular part of the city.
Giving the recluse one of his genuine smiles that touched his eyes, John took the key dangling from Harold's computer typing fingers. "Yes Harold, red will be fine. I figure whatever program you need to run and other such things you need to do will be finished by 7:30 this evening? Which makes for dinner being around seven to eight hours or so from now? Don't be late Harold." Giving that bit of warning, John grinned as he gave Bear a quick scratch behind the ears before he left knowing Harold would never be late, unless it was because of dire circumstances.
Harold let out a sigh as he watched the tall form of John disappear. Turning back to his computers, he made sure what John had said about Mr. Dunlap was correct and that the detective wasn't having any other issues after the interrogation process.
For months John had been 'teasing' as Harold called it every time he attempted to flirt or get anywhere even close to the man personally. A small part of him understood why Harold did it, but John also wished the man would take him seriously and not think everything non-number related was a joke.
John stopped by the grocery store and was nearly done picking up what he needed, but he still needed to get some vegetables and herbs which of course were on the other side of the market from the butchery where he was at now. On passing the last few aisles were the personal effects and hygiene products where he overheard a couple talking.
'Hey they finally got the new flavored stuff instead of the generic plastic latex kind. I don't know how people can be into that flavor because it is gross and stays forever on my taste buds. Let's get some watermelon, cherry, and I think apple; we can find out how close they are to the real thing.'
At the time John hadn't understood what the couple was talking about, but he was curious. After going to the vegetable aisle, he grabbed what he needed and then doubled back to the aisle the two had exited from. Not seeing anyone else, John quickly scanned for anything flavored and part of the conversation made sense when he came upon edible lube.
'Hmm … I wonder what flavor Harold would like. I can't exactly force Harold to see that I'm being serious, but it's always best to be prepared in any case. Well, cherry and strawberry seem to be common flavors, I guess I'll go with peach and see what happens,' John thought to himself adding the tube to his basket. John went to the cash register to pay for everything and then went home to make the dinner he hoped Harold would like.
Once at the SoHo house, John immediately got to cleaning and cutting up all the vegetables he would need for the Slow – Cooker Braised Lamb Shanks recipe he noticed Harold had liked when John fixed it on a previous dinner outing while they were finishing up loose ends on a number.
Making note to follow the directions exactly, John soon had the whole thing in the crock pot cooking away. While that technically didn't need his attention, he could still stock the place for anything they'd need. Going about the house, John did any tidying up necessary and figured doing some laundry wouldn't hurt.
Seeing as he could think of everything that would be set for the evening, did John look at his watch and show that it only two hours out of the possible eight went by. Figuring Harold would be busy; he didn't think going back to the library would do any good.
After pacing for a bit, John decided to do a bit of an inventory check searching in cabinets, closets, and drawers for anything that Harold would need. Soon after making up the sizeable list John locked up behind himself leaving to get more supplies for Bear, some stuff for himself should he stay over, and Harold's usual supplies like Sencha Tea, tea biscuits and other home essentials.
Driving around the city and attempting not to rush made John nearly frustrated with patience. Still, in the long run he knew it was to show Harold he cared and that he was serious. Sure there were other ways like a promise ring, but if they ever did reach that level; he would go way beyond a promise ring.
Meanwhile back at the Library, Harold was running a few updated programs he had been holding off on having had back to back numbers come up to demand all his attention. He was going to call John to check up and see how he was doing, but a telltale whine from the other side of his chair caught his attention.
Bear had his tail wagging slowly from side to side and ears perked. When Harold looked at him the dog popped his head up from the doggy bed and barked once, tilting his head sideways in the all familiar indication that the canine needed to go for a walk.
Harold couldn't help but smile as he checked to make sure he could leave the programs running on their own while he took the dog out. 'Alright Bear, let's go on a walk. I guess two hours is a fair amount of time to take a break.' Slowly getting up and feeling stiff, Harold couldn't have been happier that the Malinois could detect it was time for a walk in either one's case or just to for the dog to do his business or because they were both restless.
Taking their sweet time going on their walk left Harold's mind idle long enough to ponder just what John's motives were for this evening. He had an idea, but if that theory was proved correct then he was in trouble. Until the programs finished updating he wouldn't necessarily have any time to stop by the store.
'Maybe I'm just jumping to conclusions and I'm going about this all wrong. What do you think Bear?' Harold asked staring down at the dog that was looking back and forth as they waited at the crosswalk for the light to turn green.
Bear upon hearing his name perked an ear in his master's direction, but not hearing a command merely kept doing his job.
Harold couldn't help but sigh. Then the chirping of the signal turning green had the two continuing on their walk. 'Guess I'll just have to wait and see. Though it does seem what John says, as far as the context, has been different as of late. Does that have to do with anything?' Harold just sighed again as he kept going along one of the usual semi-long walk routes he took Bear.
At a convenience store John was just finishing up getting the hygiene products he would need when John remembered that Harold used at this specific store. It wasn't super high end, but it would seem that even the recluse enjoyed simple things. Taking out his list and looking over it, he saw that he finally had everything. He needed to get back to the other side of town, to the house, and put everything away.
Once he was at the SoHo house, John put everything away quickly but as neatly as possible before checking up on dinner. He gently stirred the contents so to make sure everything cooked evenly. While a crockpot is supposed to automatically do that, he still wanted to make sure dinner was cooked right.
With the main part of dinner cooking, John went about making a caprese salad and some fresh breadsticks that he would pop in the oven a few minutes before dinner was ready. Once again looking at his watch John saw that another hour and a half had passed. Looking around he figured he could set the table and have some candles ready. Going all the way, John got out his iTouch, started browsing and downloading songs to make a proper playlist, and set it on the doc that he had bought and insisted Harold use whenever he liked.
Seeing as he had already made so many different playlists for the billionaire to choose from, John scrolled through all of them and paused on a romance playlist. Opening it up he scanned the contents of the songs and figuring he didn't have much to lose, he played the list of songs on shuffle and low in the background. With only about four hours or so to go he figured he could clean a few of his guns and go from there.
After taking out his usual sidearm and a few guns from inside his bedroom that Harold had allowed him to stay in at the house, he got out the needed materials. After covering the table with the specific cloth he used, he set everything down. John remembered the lecture he had received the first time he had cleaned his guns at this house and Harold saying something along the lines of 'Mr. Reese, you don't eat from the same table you clean your arsenal do you?' That led John to buy a cloth that the recluse had approved of and thus it stuck with him to always have one at every place he kept his guns and ammo at.
Of course taking his time and cleaning nearly every gun he had stashed at this particular house, John had shaved off only half an hour. He couldn't remember feeling so nervous. With Jessica he couldn't recall a moment of anxiety except for when he had wanted to ask her to wait for him.
John spoke out loud to no in the room, 'Jessica's the past, but I want Harold to me my present and future. He saved me from the pit of my lowest despair and still stands up for me. There has to be some way that I can get him to understand that I am serious in my play for him. Guess in three hours it will be judgment time. I'll go for a fairly long run, take a shower when I get back, and still have another thirty minutes or so until he arrives.'
With that John quickly changed into running gear. After checking once again on dinner and everything else, he locked up and went out on a run. John hoped that the distraction would help keep his mind off of Harold, the outcome John desired in how the man would react to everything tonight, and where to take it.
Nearing the hour or so mark before he had to leave, Harold was glad his programs had finished their updates. Closing all other necessary windows and tabs, he shut down the whole system. Hearing a yawn, he glanced down and saw that Bear had moved next to the chair but out of the way.
'Ready to head home? John's already there with dinner. Let's go Bear,' Harold roused the canine. Harold grimaced as he got up a bit stiffly, but managed. Taking the leash, he hooked it onto Bear's collar. Harold grabbed his hat and coat from the rack; the two of them then exited the library and walked the short block to a parking garage where Harold had parked his car.
Rounding the last corner on his run, John saw the house, looked at his watch, and was glad he had about an hour or so. Quickening his pace the last few feet, John raced up the steps to unlock the door and enter. Once inside he locked it again. He made for the bathroom to shower and be presentable; John dressed in a dinner suit that Harold had made for John to wear in an undercover case with a number. After he was finished getting ready John had about forty minutes left. He went into the living room to wait and sent Harold a text.
John: You got the red wine right?
Harold who had been driving had the text read to him and smiled. He had ordered the beverage not too long after John had left The Library and the wine would be delivered as soon as Harold got there. Nearing the house, he pushed a button on the steering wheel and called the store that would be bringing the wine. Harold wanted to estimate what time he could arrive there so the wine would be delivered just as he got out of the car. Still he "texted" a reply back to John.
Harold: Really Mr. Reese? Of course I have the red wine that is supposed to be paired with dinner. I shall be there in about twenty minutes with Bear. Calling Shaw seemed like an inconvenience when he seemed reluctant to go when I made the move to call earlier.
John couldn't help but roll his eyes at that. 'Sure Harold, you just didn't want to have Bear be dog sat so you never called Shaw. Well you're almost here so I should get the rest of dinner going.' He turned up the music a few more notches and had one of Harold's favorite songs ready to play as soon as Harold entered into the doorway; John couldn't help but read the title out loud −'Lead With Your Heart' by The Tenors.
The breadsticks were popped into the oven and the crockpot was turned off. John had gently stirred its contents before taking the wine glasses from the cupboard and getting the bucket of ice ready to chill the wine.
'Alright everything is ready and just waiting for Harold,' John murmured to himself. No sooner had he said the man's name John heard keys being inserted into the door and the previous song nearing its end. John clasped his arms behind his back in the entranceway between the kitchen and front door.
Harold had taken the wine bag carefully from the young man and tipped him for being early and wished him a good evening. Then pointing at the house while telling Bear to guard the door, he turned and locked the car. Harold walked up to the door Bear was guarding, took out the house key from his suit pocket, unlocked the door and opened it.
Hearing his favorite song as Harold stepped inside the doorway and the sight of John wearing the dinner suit he had had made for the operative for an undercover mission, had Harold giving the other man a puzzled look.
The sight of John in a suit and then stepping in he heard his favorite song and he gave a puzzled look to John.
John came forward and left some distance between them. 'I know you always think I'm just flirting and joking around. I'll admit that's the only way I knew how to act around you at first. Yet I've come to realize you mean more than just an outlet to joke about too. I'd like if you accepted a dance after were done eating.' John extended an open palm towards Harold.
Bear sat wiggling next to Harold but stayed put. Harold smiled and motioned for Bear that it was okay and he shut the door behind him. 'I'm not sure I'm that great as a dance partner John, but if you want a dance then I can try.' Harold took the still offered hand. Bear was careful of John's suit as he ran circles around his other master.
John grinned and took the offered hand and kissed it. 'I wasn't sure if you wanted to freshen up a bit, but I laid out a set of clothes in your bedroom if you chose too. Either way I'll let you decide while I get Bear all set up, then plate food, and finish up in there.' John tilted his head towards the kitchen in the direction he was going to go as he ushered Bear to follow, leaving Harold to choose on his own what he would do.
Harold watched the two disappear into the kitchen before he heard the clatter of bowls and water running. He decided to see just what attire John had picked out. After hanging up his coat and hat, he made the slow progress down the hall to his bedroom. All laid out on the bed was his beige bespoke suit with a dark burgundy tie and matching pocket square. John was wearing a dark mahogany suit with navy blue tie and pocket square with small black emblems on them.
'Here I thought John wouldn't have any fashion sense. I don't see why freshening up wouldn't hurt.' Harold stripped to just his boxers before going into the bathroom where he washed his face and toweled his body carefully. He then returned to the bedroom and changed into the other suit. It was a bit tiring, but indulging just this once for John didn't seem so bad. Looking one last time in the full length mirror, he turned to go join John back in the kitchen.
Seeing that Bear had finished his food, John filled the water bowl with fresh water then gave the dog a treat before sending him off to his bed in the living room with one of his toys. Washing his hands, John was just finishing plating all of the food while letting the wine chill, before he heard Harold's gait as he entered the kitchen. Setting the plates down, John looked up and was a bit surprised that Harold had went along with changing into the suit John had picked out..
'You look very sharp tonight Harold, much like every day really. Care to join me for dinner this evening?' John asked having stepped behind Harold's seat as he waited for the man to come sit down. Once Harold stepped forward John carefully scooted the seat under Harold and sat down on the other side of the table.
Harold didn't know what surprised him more. All the sights and smells swirling all around or John being as he was in front of him. 'I must say John that this is a rather extravagant just to be dining in.' Harold removed the bottle of wine from the chiller and opened it as John held the glasses just so to be poured in.
Once the wine was poured, John set a glass in front of each of them. 'Well that's just the thing. I wanted this to be more than just a dine-in. You've heard me teasing and flirting for months, almost a year even. Lately though I've been getting this feeling in my gut that I want it to be more tangible than just words. Let's eat and you can think on everything I've had to say.' John professed while picking up his fork and starting on his salad.
Harold in truth didn't quite know how to take John's confession, which he was pretty sure that John's decision to confide happened just now. Looking down Harold finally saw what John had made and he didn't realize how hungry he was until that moment. Picking up his fork and knife, he carefully carved into the lamb and ate.
John both liked and hated the silence that followed while they ate. Still, he wouldn't pressure Harold if the other man honestly didn't want to take things further. Yes it would hurt, but not as much if he had pushed the issue and caused some sort of rift between them.
Harold enjoyed the food that John had cooked. Regardless if it was primarily cooked in the crockpot, he knew from experience that even following a recipe there can still have issues. Having eaten the side salad and the bed of pasta with the lamb, he was very full. 'The meal was very good John. I must say it was better than going out,' Harold complimented while raising his glass and taking a sip.
John smiled as he got up to take away the dishes and to let Harold rest a little while before moving them to the living room. Once the table was cleared and the dishes were in the dishwasher he took both of their glasses and the bottle. 'Care to join me in the living room?'
Harold had closed his eyes letting the music and John moving around the room lull him into a slight doze. Opening his eyes, he saw that John was smiling down at him. Harold couldn't help but blush at dozing as he carefully got up, 'Lead the way John.'
Once in the living room, John set the glasses and the bottle on coasters and left room for Harold to join him on the sofa as the music played on. He was in the middle section of the couch and left either the right side or left for the billionaire to choose from.
Harold paused as he saw that John's bravado seemed to diminish a little bit. Taking a deep breath himself, he chose to sit with his strong side sitting next to John and so he took the left side of the couch. 'John, while I really enjoyed the meal you prepared, how exactly did you mean you wanted to take things more seriously?' He watched John fiddle with the small remote in his large hand.
John hesitated for a bit as he tried to think of the best way to get Harold to understand. 'Just like I said, I don't want what we have to just be dead end teasing and flirting. For once I actually want you to take what I say for what it's worth and not as a joke or jibe aimed at you,' John answered Harold's question before setting the remote down and taking a fairly large sip of wine.
Harold watched John and saw the uncertainty and slight fear in the operative's eyes. He had only found bravery and honor visible in John's eyes, but tonight he was seeing a part of John that not many people witnessed. Sighing he looked to the music player and closed his eyes for a few moments while trying to soak up everything that was happening.
John carefully got up and leaned against the kitchen door. He was too jittery to remain sitting but tried his best to keep from pacing also. John had refilled his glass and was trying not to guzzle it down as well. The silence was deafening, but John figured Harold was collecting his thoughts and taking everything John had said into consideration.
A good handful of minutes had passed before John couldn't take the silence any longer so he figured a distraction might help. Having moved some of the furniture out of the way, there was now a small dancing area in the room. John picked up the remote and played the song he knew paired with his own −'Always There' by The Tenors − then bowed to Harold with one hand behind his back and once again held the other out palm up. 'May I have this dance Harold?'
Harold was nervous and was still processing everything when John had moved back toward the couch. Standing up, he heard another familiar song as he laid his hand on John's and was led over to the space they were going to dance in. He let his right hand rest over John's heart and the left on the man's other hip.
John in turn carefully kept his right hand on Harold's hip and the other at the small of the other man's back. Letting the music lead them, he slowly swayed them both to and fro in a small circle that had them following a pattern all of their own. The whole time he never wavered from looking into Harold's eyes hoping that what he wasn't expressing could be showed in some other way.
When I am less than I should be
And I just can't face the day
When darkness falls around me
And I just can't find my way
When my eyes don't clearly see
And I stumble through it all
You I lean upon, you keep me strong
And you raise me when I fall
You are there when I most need you
You are there so constantly
You come shining through
You always do
You are always there for me
Harold stared into John's eyes and could see what he didn't understand when John had tried to explain. Not to mention the fact that since the music was on low he could feel John's heartbeat pick up plus the slight press of John's hand on his back as well as they continued to dance.
When life brings me to my knees
When my back's against the wall
You are standing there right with me
Just to keep me standing tall
Though a burden I may be
You don't weary, you don't rest
You are reaching out to carry me,
And I know I'm heaven blessed.
You are there when I most need you
You are there so constantly
You come shining through
You always do
You are always there for me
As the two of them continued to dance in their small circle, John felt like his heart was going to explode. Though he worked for CIA, had other military background, and had been trained to hide them, he couldn't make himself hide his emotions and feelings right now. This was probably the most open he could be with Harold at the moment.
You are there when I most need you
You are there so constantly
You come shining through
You always do
You are always there for me
You are there when I most need you (you are there)
You are there so constantly
You come shining through
You always do
You are always there for me
Harold never saw so much raw honesty like he was at this moment. Lifting his left hand to John's face, he cupped his partner's cheek. 'John, I can't mean that much to you. I helped you yes but that was only because you needed a purpose.'
For me
John shook his head slowly as he stopped and repeated the last two lines of the song. 'You are always there for me … For me. That is how you make me feel Harold, like I can take on the whole world, not just New York, so long as you are with me keeping me above the surface. I can't go on being as we used to, but if you don't want to take things further you have to tell me Harold.'
Harold saw that John's eyes were shining with moisture. While his partner was a very strong man, Harold's answer would be a make it or break it point. Feeling in his own heart the meaning behind the song, Harold knew that he wanted something more with John as well. Gently signaling the man to bend down, he carefully gave John a kiss and still had to hold back wincing from the odd angle for his neck.
John closes his eyes when Harold first kissed him. It was a mere touch of lips to start, but he soon felt Harold press harder and tilt his head. John let this continue for a little while before he pulled away. 'Why don't we take this to the bedroom? I know this angle hurts your neck.' He carefully placed a hand on Harold's neck for emphasis and let the heat ease the slight pain already there.
Harold leaned into John's hand before stepping back. Picking up their empty glasses, he made for the kitchen as John grabbed the nearly depleted wine bottle. Once everything was set to wash Harold turned, 'I don't want you to pity me Mr. Reese. If this is some way of returning all that I've done there's no need, I would do it again regardless.' Harold wasn't trying to ruin the mood, but he needed to be straightforward with John.
John leaned forward and gave Harold a chaste kiss before straightening up. 'Never Harold, I want you. Whatever you're willing to give me.' John smiled when his hand was taken and Harold led the way to the bedroom.
Once there Harold's nerves were back, but he fought them as best as he could. Carefully sitting on the edge of the bed, he turned to John. 'It's been a while John since I've been with anyone. I was with Grace, but the two of us never got that far – we were comfortable with just kissing or sleeping I'm afraid.' Harold felt his face redden, but he wanted to be up front with John.
John saw how the tables had turned and Harold was now vulnerable. Kneeling he laid a hand on Harold's good leg. 'Like I said, I want whatever you are willing to give me. I'm not demanding or asking for anything you are not comfortable enough to give. That includes sex and anything pertaining to it. I don't have to have sex just to be happy with you Harold. It would be nice, yes, but it isn't the most crucial part or the deal breaker I'm looking for.'
Harold looked down at the place where John's hand was and felt the immense heat emitting from just that alone. 'I know you wouldn't corner me into anything. Only, what if I want to try every boundary...with you?' Harold paused to stare straight into John's face for his reaction.
John did want to make love to Harold, but like he had said, it wasn't the most important part of their relationship. He was a bit startled that Harold did want to try everything and see what worked for them, both out of bed and in apparently. 'Well, then I'll let you set the pace first and I'll go from there. Does that work?' John offered before leaning down to kiss Harold's knee as he lifted his hand and then waited for a response.
Harold inhaled a shaky breath as he put his left hand to John's head. Then moving it to the other man's neck, he urged John to his feet. 'I'd like to wash up before we do anything. Even with the AC in the Library running, it was still rather humid today. If that's alright,' Harold stalled, feeling shy all of a sudden.
John couldn't help but chuckle at Harold as he partially turned toward the bathroom. 'How about a long soak instead so you can relax properly? I can play music in there on the waterproof speakers via Bluetooth if you want.'
Harold loved that his partner was being so considerate, but even John knew that the bathtub was huge. Big enough that John could join him, which was what Harold wanted. 'That's fine John, but only if you will be joining me.' Slowly getting up off from the bed, he walked past John to get the tub ready.
John wasn't ready for that reply in the very many he had thought about ahead of time in the ways Harold might respond. Still he saw the man disappear and John retrieved the waterproof speakers from the living room that was an attachment to the main dock and grabbed the iTouch.
Harold had taken off his coat, tie, and vest by the time John had returned. He was allowing the water to fill up as he dumped in some herbal bubbles, when music filled the air, making him jump a bit. Turning around slowly from his flinching he saw that John had set up the music and was standing there watching him. 'The bath is filling up, care to help me?' Harold asked, feeling a bit bold as he watched John walk over with a newfound grace in his steps.
Walking over John seized Harold's mouth in a hungry kiss as he let his hands wander. Unbuttoning the necessary obstacles to get to skin, John was slow so as not to scare Harold. However, John felt the man tug at John's suit and then eventually pull away with a sigh of frustration. 'Let me help you there.' John took off everything from his waist up and watched Harold's pupils blow even more wide open if that were possible.
Harold couldn't help but run both hands down the plains of John's chest, becoming aware of the man taking small shaky inhales and feeling the immense heat that always radiated from him. 'It seems I'm more overdressed.' He used the side of the tub to hold himself up as he attempted to take off his pants, but he winced from the angle of being doubled over.
John could tell that Harold was having issues and looked around he saw the chair he assumed Harold used in the bath. 'Here, let me help.' Bringing over the chair he had Harold use it as leverage while he helped pull both the man's pants and briefs down and off in one go.
Now completely naked in front of John, Harold expected the operative to react negatively after viewing his scars and the aftermath of the constant surgeries that Harold had needed. He was about to say something when amazingly a gentle hand ran up and down his back over the smooth and rough areas. What surprised him even more was when he felt kisses following the same path. Harold couldn't help but duck his head as tears slowly fell.
John knew Harold was taking a gamble showing him everything. After he had kissed all over Harold's neck and back, John in turn took a few steps back to remove the remains of his own clothing. After checking the water level in the tub, he saw that it was filled enough and shut off the faucets. 'Alright Harold, the water's ready. Give me your hand.' John extended his own waiting to assist the other man into the tub.
Harold had removed his glasses and while he wasn't completely blind, things were blurry. Still, he was glad that he could still make out most of John. He couldn't help flushing more as he turned away from the chair and his evident hard on bobbed as he moved to take John's hand helping him into the tub.
The hot water had him hissing a bit at its bite, but soon taking a few deep breaths he was able to settle down into the tub. Once he was in Harold watched John as he turned on the music before setting the remote down nearby and entered the tub as well facing him.
John groaned as the hot water seemed to ease the aches from the day away. He relaxed, even if only for a few moments more, before he reached for the washcloth and soap. When it was all sudsed up he leaned forward. 'You want me to wash you? You seem to be pretty content to just stay there from where I'm sitting.'
Harold had rested his head against the edge of the tub and had closed his eyes, when John's voice lulled him out. 'Oh sorry. I didn't think I was as tired as I had originally thought. I can do it myself, no need to worry.' He carefully leaned forward, but his hand slipped and he landed somewhat clumsily on top of John.
Tossing the cloth aside John carefully caught Harold somewhat before the wind was knocked out of him. Barely catching his breath John croaked out, 'Are you okay?'
Harold used John's chest to get up and was glad he didn't get soap in his eyes. He didn't like the sound of John's voice though so he ran his hands over the operative's chest. 'I'm fine, you caught me so no damage. Only you sound winded, let me get off.' Harold tried to move, but a hand on his back kept him there.
'It's fine, just stay there.' John's voice had returned to near normal and seemed focused now. John attempted to move, but that was a rather bad but pleasant move on his part as the bubbles had made the space between them slippery. So, when he moved, John rubbed himself against Harold.
That of course elicited a sudden cry out from Harold and had him burying his head in the crook of John's neck, whose hands in turn traveled down the length of Harold's back before trailing even further. Harold felt those strong hands settle on his ass which had him blushing even harder.
Breathing heavy from lust John gasped when he felt Harold shiver, 'If you don't want to continue we don't have to. We can just soak in here for a while and then retire to bed. Like I said I…' The rest of John's sentence was swallowed by the other man when Harold lifted his head from John's shoulder and captured John's lips in a hot kiss.
Harold knew that John would never take advantage since he was staying true to his words. That meant he would have to show John what he wanted the man to do and what Harold liked. Being in water that allowed some buoyancy, there wasn't nearly as much pressure, pain, and strain on his body. With John's hands on his rear Harold let his hands brace on the other man's chest as he slowly rocked up and down so that their cocks rubbed against one another.
John groaned into the kiss as he slid his tongue through Harold's parted lips and set out to learn every inch of Harold's mouth. Holding Harold's ass a bit more tightly, John slowly ground up when Harold came down. Air soon became an issue and after lip-locking for so long he looked at Harold.
'Harold…' He leaned forward to kiss along that neck that begged to be kissed and marked. Mindful of causing too much pain he bit down gently when he felt Harold's hand encase both of them and jerk them off.
Harold had stilled and wrapped a hand over the both of them. He moaned as he felt John nibble and bite along his neck. Careful he turned his neck a fraction and that seemed to be enough because he felt the vibrations of John's moan on his neck. 'John, I'm not as young as I-ah was; I don't want to climax until were in bed.'
John had lifted his head and was admiring the mark he had made. He laved over it with a few more kisses until he saw shivers go through Harold's body. 'Very well. Let's finish in here and then I expect this to be in me when we get to the bedroom,' John groaned while taking hold of Harold's hardness for a brief moment to stroke it a few times before searching for the abandoned washcloth.
Harold gasped and couldn't help but buck a few times into John's hands. He nearly growled in frustration when John stopped stroking him and found the washcloth. The two finished cleaning each other. That of course took some time, so making each other wait even longer didn't help the current matter.
Finally the two of them were washed enough and made their way into the bedroom. With the lights dimmed a bit and music still playing on in the background, the mood was certainly there.
John was truthful in that he had wanted Harold to take him. If later Harold wanted to switch roles than he would be fine to do so for him. This first time though he wanted Harold to be as comfortable as possible. Lying on the bed with his legs spread wide John waited for Harold, who still stood near the foot of the bed. 'I'm sure Harold, now get over here.'
A bundle of nerves, Harold carefully managed to kneel with his bad leg somewhat off to the side to compensate. 'You'll tell me if it's too much right? I didn't have the time to stop at a store and...' A strip of condoms and lube were dangling from John's outstretched hands.
'I know Harold, everything's fine. I sort of got that area covered. You know I'm clean and I can only assume you are too. If you're not comfortable yet than we can use the protection until we're ready. I also picked flavored lube that's safe to be eaten in certain circumstances.'
Taking the supplies Harold turned the tube over and read Peach flavored edible lube. 'I'm guessing that you didn't know I liked actual peaches. I am a bit surprised that you didn't get the usual strawberry or cherry flavored.' Harold moved a bit closer and wrapped a tentative hand around John's swollen cock and gave it a few strokes, made easy by how much John was leaking already.
John tilted his head back as he kept hands clenched at his side in the bedsheets. 'H-Harold don't tease,' John begged as he arched his hips up a bit and thrust into Harold's grasp, trying to get the man to speed up a bit.
Harold stroked John a few more times before trailing a finger down to John's rear and circled the entrance. 'Now now John, don't rush me. I don't want to hurt you and I want this to be enjoyable for the both of us.' Harold grabbed the tube of peach flavored lube; he squirted a fair amount on his index finger and gingerly pressed inward.
John hissed at the odd feeling of sensation when Harold pressed his finger in, but he took a few deep breaths and tried to relax. So knowing it would hurt less and the odd feeling would soon fade away, John urged Harold on, 'It's okay, it doesn't hurt as bad as I'm probably reacting. Honest-Harold.' He urged the man on by rolling his hips and engulfing more of the digit in his ass by inches.
Harold couldn't help but be transfixed with his finger disappearing into John's ass. The passageway was hot around his finger; it seemed to grasp on and not want to let go of him. He thrust his finger in with short shallow movements to get John used to the feeling.
After a few minutes and feeling the passageway loosen quite a bit Harold removed his finger. He added more lube before inserting a second finger and began scissoring John open. With his free hand Harold ran his palm up and around John's chest and felt goosebumps wake in its path.
John felt like his whole body was on fire; he was getting impatient and wanted Harold to just fuck him. 'Harold I like a bit of pain with my pleasure. I'm ready, just fuck me already!' His voice wavered a bit when he felt the fingers inside him curl and hit his prostate. 'Aangh! T-There!'
Harold knew his face was flushed crimson, but he didn't care if it meant he was bringing John this much pleasure. He was enjoying how responsive John was. Removing his fingers, he eyed the condom packets and then looked to John. It was the intense stare of trust and love in those fierce eyes that had him decide to forgo them all together.
Harold grabbed the lube again; its citrus smell was strong but not unbearable. Harold then slicked his sensitive cock, winced at the slight contact, and lined himself up. 'John you do know I will blame you for never seeing peaches the same way again.' With that he then entered John in one swift thrust.
John was going to retort back, but Harold entering him had him gasp in a groan instead. Wanting to be closer John had the idea to spoon facing each other. 'Nmm, I want you closer; can you lie on your good side? He saw the confusion in Harold's gaze, but saw the nod of affirmation.
Still lodged he felt John turn and groaned at the sensitivity and then he lay down in the same spot that John had abandoned. Being held close, Harold could read each and every expression in those sharp eyes. He thrust slowly once the two of them got situated.
John leaned forward and captured Harold's lips when he felt Harold's cock penetrating him. It had been probably a decade or so since he had let anyone take him this way and he was glad that after such a long spell that he gave that opportunity to the man in his arms.
Moaning, Harold returned each kiss as best as he could while trying to keep up a steady rhythm. It was hard when he was feeling everything all at once and it was almost too much for him. Still he moved inside John carefully and held him as close as possible. When John counter thrust against him, Harold met him for each one.
John wasn't sure how close Harold was now; he knew for sure that since it had been a long time Harold was almost ready to cum when they were in the tub. He moved from kissing Harold's lips to move to his earlobe and sucked on it. The reaction was instant, if the harder thrust was any indication as the hand on John's hip grasped tighter. 'Hmm someone liked that, fuck me harder Harold.' He bit down again and that seemed to egg on the recluse.
Harold moaned loudly when John bit down on his ear. He didn't know it was a sensitive spot for him, but obviously it now was. 'J-John! Nngh!' He snapped his hips a bit harder and felt his stomach become slicker with John's precum.
'Harold, I don't know how close you are, but I'm almost there.' Harold's breathe became heavy as John continued to lave Harold's ear while using one hand to run up and around Harold's neck and collarbone area. John could feel the man's Adam's apple bob up and down shakily at times on his hands passes.
Harold couldn't be more relieved that John was voicing his own unease, but was glad they were both almost there. 'I'm almost there too.' Moving his head he sought out John's lips and kissed him hard. Harold moved the hand that had been gripping the other man's hip, slid it between their bodies, and tried to stroke John to the same speed as he was moving.
When he felt Harold's hand touch his hard cock it was nearly the end. Pushing further into that hand also had Harold's cock slide further inside him. Head dizzy from lack of air he felt his stomach tighten in the telltale sign he was close. Moving just a bit closer, the slight shift made Harold's cock hit his prostate more, With a few more thrusts his moan was swallowed on Harold's lips as he came hard.
Harold knew John had found release when he felt his stomach become covered with hot cum and with John clenching down hard on him he soon followed after. With a few more thrusts he found his own release. He pulled out of John to lie on his back when his cock was finished pulsing his seed into John's inner walls.
John had detached his lips as he tried to breath, also lying on his back for a few moments. Recovering a bit faster he sat up slowly and felt the sting already in his rear, but it was welcoming. Looking over he saw that Harold had covered his eyes with his good arm and was still breathing a bit heavily.
Grinning, he leaned over Harold's cock and licked up the traces of his semen and lube. He was surprised how much it tasted like actual peaches and had to agree with Harold. After this, he wouldn't be able to look or possibly eat peaches again. Knowing Harold would be over sensitive he didn't linger too much before cleaning up his own mess.
Harold had yelped a bit when John's mouth had engulfed his cock. Looking down he saw John grin and move from his groin to his stomach. 'John, you didn't have to do that.' Bringing the man up Harold kissed him; John's mouth tasted of semen and peaches mixed. Harold groaned at the taste and was positive peaches would never be the same for him.
Harold was brought out of his memories when he felt a hand on his neck and he groaned into it. "Hello John, did you need something?" Harold asked opening his eyes as John leaned down a bit to look at him.
John had been watching Harold for some time and wondered what had the man so engrossed. He had a sweet smile on his face, so whatever the daydream was at least it was pleasant. "I don't know, you tell me. I've been watching you and whatever had you daydreaming left you in this state." John replied mischievously while palming Harold's half hard cock through his suit.
Harold blushed as he tried to thrust the best he could into John's hand. "I-I was remembering when we had first used that peach flavored lube. That night you brought me the suit you had the same lube again. I'm afraid it aroused me more than I had planned."
After turning Harold's chair around, John got down on his knees. "Well then, can't have you uncomfortable in your suit now can I? Let me take care of that," John worried over the problem while zipping Harold's pants. John moved the top band of the silk briefs down and out of the way before he pulled out Harold's cock; it seemed to swell even more in his hand.
"John! We can't in here. Someone could come in at any minute." Harold panicked trying his best to move. But really he hadn't made any sincere effort yet as he felt John's breathe ghost over his now hard cock which was now only mere inches from the other man's mouth.
John looked up through his lashes and grinned. "Well I guess I'll just have to put on a show. Let them see what they can't have then." With that he took Harold fully into his mouth and groaned at the familiar salty taste that he had rapidly come to love. Mixed in with Harold's own smell and the aroma of old books, it was a heady combination.
Harold couldn't seem to care to chastise John at that point and laid his head on the back of the chair, his hands digging into its arms so tight that he was sure they were white from such a grip. "Hah, John! Nmm I won't last long." It surprised Harold how turned on he had been from just remembering their first time all over again.
John moaned as he sucked on Harold knowing the vibrations would help in the man to come sooner. While John was rock hard in his own pants, something told him he wouldn't even need to touch himself; he would probably go off like a teenager coming in his pants just from what he was doing to Harold.
Letting go one hand from a chair arm, Harold braced it on John's head and tangled it in his hair. Pulling and gripping tightly seemed to have John groan more around his cock. Knowing John would catch him; Harold put his other hand in the salt and peppered hair and held on.
John loved when Harold took hold of his hair. They found out by accident when Harold had nearly fallen forward on another blowjob, that hair tugging was something the two of them enjoyed. Thus, it was sending tingling pulses straight to his cock as he massaged his throat muscles taking Harold further down while continuing the vibrations.
With his eyes shut tight Harold couldn't hold back any longer. Harold tugged fairly hard – a strong pull of hair that would make most men wince – as he came when the vibrations and John's hot mouth were too much. "John!" Harold gasped filling John's mouth with his cum before he sagged in his chair and shakily let go of John's hair. He tried to smoothen it out a bit but it was futile.
John came as soon as Harold had gripped his hair relatively hard on that last part, swallowing all that Harold gave him and not missing a single drop. Once he was sure he got everything he kissed the tip before carefully putting Harold away and situated his suit back to normal. "Feeling better? You'll have to tell me when you feel like daydreaming like that again. I'd be more than happy to take care of you again," John leered suggestively as he got up and kissed Harold softly.
Too relaxed to chide John on his remark he kissed back softly and felt John's hand rub against his neck again. It was then that Harold realized he hadn't returned the favor and taken care of John, but he was given a knowing look from John.
"I've been taken care of, don't worry. With you, I seem to be able to cum in my pants more often than I would like. However, I'm not complaining about it." John knew he would have to change soon, but kissing Harold after that little episode seemed to be more to his liking at that moment.
Song references are by The Tenors a Canadian group. I just loved their songs that fic perfectly in this fic and was my playlist as well.
Somehow when I'm updating either on here or to A03 one of them isn't getting update. I apologize for that and will try to be better at it.
Hope you enjoyed this next chapter! I'm taking a bit of a break from RINCH stories as I got back into my Junjou Romantica fics that I want to finish and have a beta once again for.
Anyways as always READ & REVIEW!
~Lilblossomcub