The third and final chapter is here! I hope you all enjoy it, it's sweet and fluffy and was just what I was in the mood to write. Thank you for all the kind comments people have posted. I've loved reading them all
Chapter 3
Thomas relaxed back; Alexander was still pressed against his side though now his head had moved from his shoulder to rest against his chest. The shorter man's breathing had evened out, and Thomas suspected that he'd fallen asleep. His heart twisted and he found himself drawing Alexander even closer so that the younger man was half draped over him. An arm came up to rest on Thomas's side, a smaller hand gripping his shirt sporadically in sleep.
Thomas ran a hand through Alexanders soft curls, loving how the other burrowed deeper into his chest at the action.
He looked up at Washington, Knox and James talking quietly around them.
It had been a long time since he'd felt so content.
Knox poured the people who were awake a whiskey, smirking as he handed Thomas his.
From outside a clap of thunder was heard.
"Looks like a storm might be on its way" Washington said with a glance down at Alexander. "Not unusual for this time of year."
Thomas shrugged, "still too warm for snow so its unlikely to be anything serious."
James got up and pulled the curtains back on the large windows overlooking the east side of the property. Lighting flashed and another clap of thunder sounded as rain started to fall.
"Thankfully we have no plans to travel anywhere soon, I'm sure it will blow itself out soon enough."
Thomas nodded, taking another sip of his whiskey.
Beside him Alexander stirred, as the tempo of the rain increased. Thomas looked down to see Alexander's eyebrows furrowed, clearly distressed. Thomas ran a soothing hand down the others back in an attempt to calm him.
He looked up to find Washington watching him seriously.
"He does not like storms" the President said softly as understanding came to Thomas, the sounds of the storm were scaring the younger man.
Acting on impulse Thomas pulled Alexander into his lap and wrapped his arms around him more tightly. He stirred a little at the movement but settled again after a few moments.
Warm breath tickled his neck and Thomas had to take a few deep breaths to remind himself that he did this to comfort Alexander and no other reason.
He quietly joined in the conversation around him, until the hour grew late, and each man excused himself for bed.
"Would you like me to help you get him up to his room?" Washington asked, with a fond look at his Secretary of the Treasury.
"No, that's OK. I think I will sit with him until this storm blows over."
Washington nodded in understanding before taking his own leave.
Now it was just the two of them alone and Thomas couldn't help but enjoy the quiet and the warmth of the other man in his arms.
Alexander's breathing was deep and steady, the storm raging outside no longer bothering him. He smelt faintly of lavender and Thomas practically buried his face in the soft brown hair as he breathed in the soothing scent.
He wasn't sure how long he sat there, staring out the window. He did know that his legs and arms both, had started to go numb before Alexander stirred.
A twitch and a groan as the shorter man stretched out his stiff muscles. Thomas could spot the exact moment that Alexander realised he wasn't in a bed. He froze, body going tense as he blearily opened his eyes. They were still clouded by sleep and confusion.
"Thomas?" Alexander croaked before clearing his throat and trying again. "Thomas? What's going on?" Dark eyes turned to see that they were still in the sitting room they had been in earlier.
"Where is everyone? What time is it?"
Thomas smiled fondly at the slew of questions.
"I'm not sure what time it is, but the others have gone to bed."
"Then why are we still up?" Alexander asked in confusion, looking down and just seeming to realise that he was curled up in Thomas's arms. His face flushed bright pink, but Thomas couldn't help but notice that he made no move to remove himself.
"You fell asleep against my side. A storm started and you seemed to get distressed, so I pulled you into my lap to comfort you." Thomas explained with nothing but kindness and sincerity. "I could have woken you and sent you to bed earlier but I was worried about you all alone in your room during a storm. I didn't want you to be scared."
"I'm not scared" Alexander scoffed, but his heart wasn't in it. Truthfully, he had been scared of storms ever since he was a boy.
"Of course, not" Thomas said lightly, clearly not believing a word.
They sat in silence for a moment and still Alexander made no move to extricate himself from Thomas' lap.
"There was a really bad storm, when I was a child" Alexander said softly. "A lot of people died, ever since then, storms make me…uncomfortable."
Thomas nodded in understanding, his hand softly stroking Alexanders back in comfort.
"Thank you for being there for me" Alexander continued, glancing up shyly at Thomas from beneath his lashes.
"I – I would like to always be there for you" Thomas said and then blinked slowly; he hadn't meant to be quite so forward.
Alexander's eyes widened in surprise. "I, I think I would like that" he said honestly, before leaning forward and placing a soft kiss to the corner of Thomas' mouth, so quick and gentle that if he hadn't been paying attention to the man in his arms, he may have missed it.
"Well, goodnight" Alexander said quickly, climbing out of Thomas' lap. "I best get some sleep if I'm going to convince you that all of your ideas are idiotic in the morning" he laughed before hurrying out of the room so quickly that Thomas hadn't managed to gather enough of his wits to protest.
That warm sweet mouth, that could argue and spit fire as well as any demon, had been pressed against his own. He couldn't fight back a groan as he pushed his palm into his very interested dick. No one in his whole life had managed to stir his passion the way that Alexander did.
The storm had thankfully blown itself out by morning, though the weather was decidedly cooler. Thomas grabbed one of his warmer coats as he made his way back downstairs after breakfast. He had promised Alexander after all.
He entered the room they had been using for their meetings to find, Alexander and Knox waiting for him, but no sign of James or Washington.
Alexander smiled warmly, as he spotted Thomas, even more so when he saw what the other was holding.
Thomas walked around the table but didn't hand the dark green coat over when Alexander raised a hand.
"I just want to make sure it fits or if I should go get another one" Thomas explained with a sly smile that had Alexander rolling his eyes but standing up nevertheless and letting Thomas help him into the coat.
Thomas's hands ran over the slighter figure, as he adjusted the fit and smoothed out the few wrinkles, stepping closer to Alexander and letting his fingers brush the delicate skin at his neck as he freed the longer hair from the collar. A shiver ran down Alexander's spine and Thomas had to forcefully stop himself from stepping forward and pressing himself against the younger man.
Alexander turned, "how does it look?"
The heated look in Thomas' eyes was answer enough.
"It looks quite good" Washington said with a smile as he entered the room, James close behind him.
Thomas scowled at the pair as Alexander took a step back.
"James and I were just chatting, and we thought it would be a good idea to take a break today. We've all been working very hard the last few days and a lot has been accomplished. I have a few pieces of correspondence that needs to be attended to this morning and James mentioned that he did as well, so we thought a day away from political discussions was in order. Plus, it would give Alexander the perfect opportunity to make his seed cake."
Now it was Alexanders turn to scowl.
Thomas' thoughts immediately returned to visions of Alexander in an apron, though this time he was wearing nothing underneath it.
"That sounds like a marvellous idea" Thomas said quickly, and Knox nodded in agreement.
"We just spoke to Helena, and she said she would prepare a picnic lunch for us to enjoy with Alexander's seed cake" James continued as Alexander let out a small groan.
His cake would look even worse next to the rest of Helena's cooking. There was no chance of impressing Thomas with his skills now, Alexander thought gloomily.
Thomas moved forward to guide Alexander to the kitchen but found his way blocked by James as Washington took the younger man by the arm and started walking.
Thomas frowned at his best friend.
"Just leave him for a moment to get himself started. He won't be able to concentrate with you hovering around him like an overgrown fly, looking as though you're about to throw him to the ground and ravish him at any moment."
Thomas looked affronted at the very idea. "I would never ravish him where there was even the slightest chance that anyone else could gaze upon him. He will be for my eyes alone."
James rolled his eyes at his friend's possessive behaviour. He might feel concerned about whether Alexander fully understood what he was getting himself into, except he knew that the wiley young man was one of the few who could handle Thomas. Not just handle him but enjoyed the challenge. There was absolutely no way that Alexander would let Thomas get away with anything he wasn't comfortable with.
"So, I take it that Alexander has agreed to let you court him?"
"He seems very receptive to the idea in fact" Thomas said with a soft smile, remembering the kiss from the night before.
James nodded in understanding. "I am very happy for you." And he truly was, he had never seen his friend so enamoured with someone or looking so content. He had never thought it would be Alexander Hamilton that would bring out those feelings, but the heart wants what the heart wants.
"I think I will go and check up on him, make sure he was able to find everything he needs… ensure he has an apron" he finished quietly, and James couldn't hold back the grin.
"Yes, I'm sure Helena has no clue where to find anything in the kitchen. Would be completely lost without you."
Thomas chose to ignore the sarcasm, already drifting towards the kitchen and Alexander. James let him go, he'd done what he could.
Thomas found himself quieting his steps as he made his way closer to the kitchen. Pausing in the open doorway and peering in as he did his best not to draw attention to himself. Alexander stood at one of the many benches, a look of deep concentration on his face. Ingredients were spread out in front of him, and a dark blue apron was wrapped around his chest and hips. Thomas stood as though in a trance, eyes tracing the firm outline of Alexanders jaw, the way strong hands reached for the next task. How his brows furrowed, and a small pink tongue poked out as he measured out the correct amount of flour and added it to the mixture. It was a very endearing sight.
A soft smile graced his face and he lent against the door frame, content to just take in the sight before him. Thomas resolved that no matter what the cake tasted like he would enjoy it, simply because Alexander had made it for him.
He was so engrossed in watching the man before him that he almost jumped out of his skin in fright when someone brushed past him. It was just Helena entering the kitchen and he was thankful that she deigned to ignore his spying. Alexander glanced up as he heard Helena entering and spotted Thomas skulking near the door.
"You can come in if you like" Alexander said with a chuckle. "It is your kitchen after all."
Thomas walked in, coming to stand near Alexander, but not close enough to impede his movements.
Alexander glanced out of the corner of his eye, watching as Thomas stood lost in thought.
"You look good here" the secretary of state murmured, stepping closer to Alexander, pressing closer to his back and causing the younger man to stutter in his movements. "Like you belong."
Alexander smiled softly; it had been a long time since he had truly belonged anywhere.
"I suppose its not as bad here as I thought it would be" Alexander said lightly, leaning back into Thomas' broad chest. He allowed himself a moment to enjoy the warmth of the other man behind him.
"Now step back or I will never get this cake done to any kind of satisfaction."
Thomas grinned as he stepped back, not moving farther than arm reach as he continued to watch Alexander. It was clear that he had experience in the kitchen, moving with an effortless grace even with Thomas watching his every movement.
After the cake was placed into the oven, they moved to help Helena prepare their picnic. Alexander packing food while Thomas went to collect a series of blankets and pillows that he then set up outside on the lawn. He was thankful to find everything dry after the storm last night.
James wandered over shortly after, and Knox and Washington followed not long after him. Alexander came out with a large basket in hand, just as the four were settling on the blankets. Washington took the food laden basket and began unpacking it quickly and deftly.
Pulling out platters ladened with sandwiches, fruit and Alexander's seed cake. Alexander actually looked slightly nervous as his cake was removed from the basket and placed before them. Thomas felt privileged to be seeing this more vulnerable side of the strong and outspoken man.
The secretary of state reached for a piece of cake, bypassing the sandwiches and fruit for the moment.
"It's not one of my best" Alexander explained, and Thomas just reached out a hand to gently grasp his shoulder before taking a big bite.
He smiled in surprise; it was good, really good. Maybe not as good as Helena's, but few things were.
"It's delicious" Thomas said honestly, and Alexander practically beamed at him.
A throat cleared and Thomas glanced away from the wonderful sight of a happy Alexander to find James smiling at him.
"Sandwich?" He asked innocently offering the plate to Thomas who simply took another big bite of his seed cake. His hand trailing down from Alexander's shoulder to rest gently over his hand, enjoying the blush that lit up the others face at the action.
"Did you manage to finish your correspondence?" Alexander asked Washington, surreptitiously turning his hand up and gripping Thomas's hand back.
"Unfortunately, no. I will have to get back to it after we eat" Washington said with a regretful tone that immediately left Thomas suspicious. But to be honest if the others were conspiring to give him and Alexander some time alone together, he could be nothing but grateful.
"Your cake really is delicious" James said as he took another bite, nearly all the food having been cleared away.
Thomas leaned closer, "would you care for a walk? I'd love to show you more of the grounds."
"Id like that" Alexander said, releasing Thomas's hand as he stood up and brushed his clothes down.
Thomas sprung to his feet as they bid the others goodbye, his hand immediately finding Alexanders again and pulling him closer to his side.
"My family has owned this home for generations" Thomas explained as they began their stroll. "I grew up here with my parents and nine siblings."
Alexanders eyes popped open in surprise, a chuckle escaping him as he imagined the mischief nine children must have gotten up to growing up here.
"Nine!?" he squawked.
"Yep, nine" Thomas confirmed with a grin.
"Where are they all now?"
"Some have passed away, though most have simply moved away, many to France." Thomas explained a little sadly.
"I'm sorry for your loss" Alexander said softly, but Thomas just waved him away.
"It was a long time ago.
"Did you have any siblings?" Thomas asked as they rounded a corner and headed towards the orchard.
"No, it was mostly just me on my own. My father left when I was young, and my mother passed away not long after. I've been taking care of myself ever since."
Thomas looked down at the other man in surprise. He hadn't realised just how much he had gone through. How far he had come on nothing but his own skills and ambition. His respect and admiration grew even more, and he let go of Alexanders hand, instead wrapping his arm around the small waist and pulling him in close.
"You truly are remarkable" Thomas breathed, and Alexander blinked up at him.
"Even though I disagree with nearly every political policy that you try to put forth?"
"Even then. I would never wish to be with someone who couldn't think for themselves."
Alexander smiled warmly, obviously pleased with the answer.
"I would never wish to be with someone who didn't challenge me" Alexander said in response.
"Oh yes" Thomas said with a grin. "How dreadfully boring to be with someone who doesn't challenge you."
"At least in some areas" Alexander clarified with a small laugh.
They continued to walk, discussing everything from their pasts to their hopes and dreams for the future.
"I would be lying if I didn't say that many of my hopes and dreams for the future now centre around you" Thomas said tenderly as they sat down underneath a large oak tree, the sun gradually setting in the distance.
Alexander felt his heart fluttering, "we would probably drive each other crazy."
"Maybe" Thomas chuckled. "But there is no one else I would want to spend my life arguing with."
"I feel the same way" Alexander said earnestly, reaching up to run his hands through tight curls. "I didn't know you before I came here… not really. Now I can't imagine not knowing you. Of not having you in my life, of not being in yours."
Alexander felt tears prick his eyes as Thomas pulled him into his arms.
"Then stay" Thomas whispered as he pressed his lips against Alexanders, softly at first but then with more passion. "I would take such good care of you, make you so happy if only you'd stay. We could travel to the capital when we need to for work, it would be easy if we are together."
Alexander found himself nodding along as Thomas gently pushed him back onto the grass.
"We could make a home together, here" Thomas said, lips trailing softly down the younger man's neck. Revelling in the gasps he was eliciting.
"A home?" Alexander said blearily and Thomas pulled back, reining himself in to make sure he was understood.
"A home, Alexander, here with me, as my husband. Nothing would make me happier."
Small hands reached up and gripped Thomas's face lovingly.
It was crazy but oh how he wanted it. "Yes. Yes, I'll stay here with you. Be yours as you will be mine."
Thomas swooped down to steal another kiss, pressing himself firmly into the writhing body beneath his.
A throat clearing nearby had him completely blanketing the smaller body beneath his, hiding Alexanders rising passion from prying eyes.
"It may be best if we all return to the house and freshen up for dinner" Washington said from nearby, amusement clear in his tone.
Thomas swung his head around and found both Washington and James standing nearby.
"I believe congratulations are in order" James asked with a raised eyebrow.
Thomas shifted, rising to his feet and helping Alexander stand, moving slightly in front of him to hide him from view. Alexander just stepped around him a happy smile on his face.
"Indeed" he said brightly, taking Thomas's hand into his own and smiling adoringly up at the older man.
"Oh, Martha will be pleased" Washington said as he guided Alexander out of Thomas's arms and towards the house.
Thomas just watched them go, James by his side.
"You are a very lucky man" James said with a smile. "Though I'd stop trying to mount Alexander until after the wedding or Washington will have your hide."
Thomas let out a bark of laughter, "how quickly can we organise a wedding?" Thomas wondered out loud, a twinkle in his eyes as he followed his love back to their home.