A/N: I hope this chapter is everything I want it to be. I stressed over it for a while, but in the end I can say that I happy with it. I hope you all are as well. Thanks for going on this journey with me :)
Act 1
Chapter 11
"A Union"
On the way to Talla's home Hawke couldn't shake her nerves. This woman absolutely hated her. And apparently, according to Danarius, she might be the only one who had the inside knowledge to tell him who was attempting to assassinate him. Before leaving her master's estate, she had already been warned that if she didn't behave the repercussions would be dire.
Hawke had no idea why Danarius thought she would be the one misbehaving. If it were up to her she would become invisible the entire time. But judging by the fierce anger in Danarius's eyes she had no desire to know first-hand what those repercussions would be. So as they approached Talla's home, Hawke was doing her best to remain as inconspicuous as possible. When the grand doors opened she used Fenris's body as a shield and followed them inside.
She kept her eyes down and her shoulders slumped, her hair was still slightly disheveled from the ride on the back of the carriage and she made no move to fix it. Looking unappealing seemed like the best option for her at the moment.
The three of them waited patiently in the foyer of Talla's mansion. A servant had sent word of their arrival and as Hawke cut her eyes to Danarius she noticed a sheen of sweat building on his brow. He was nervous, though for the life of her Hawke couldn't understand why. For whatever reason Talla adored him. Even though she no doubt knew about his other women, the mage couldn't get enough of the bastard. The thought made Hawke involuntarily curl her lips in disgust.
After a few moments she noticed Fenris tense, then step further in front of her. A rush of his hard, masculine scent captured her senses. As the aroma washed over her she let out a pleasured sigh and swayed towards him. Luckily, she caught herself before she made contact with his back. Looking over his shoulder, he curled his lip up before turning back forward. Hawke couldn't help but smile as she took him in. He was absolutely incredible. Her hero, her best friend, and with any luck very soon he would be her lover. Just the very idea of being more intimate with him caused her smile to widen and she closed her eyes as images of her fantasies flashed behind her eyelids.
"Danarius!" Talla squealed then rushed in the room. Hawke kept her eyes closed and tried not to let the mage's outburst interrupt. "Oh I'm so glad you've come. It's been far too long since I have been graced with your presence," Talla continued making it hard for Hawke to concentrate. "What is she doing here! And why is she smiling? Is something funny, girl?"
Abruptly, Hawke's eyes shot open as she was shaken out of her daydreams. Talla's hard scowl made her remember herself. She looked to the floor and cowered behind Fenris.
"Pay no attention to the Fereldan, sweet," Danarius tried to soothe her. "She has only accompanied me out of necessity, and will not bother us while we are here." He turned to Hawke and gritted through his teeth, "Isn't that right?"
"Of course, Master. My apologies." Hawke bowed, then continued to hide behind Fenris's shoulders. She knew the only reason why Danarius brought her along was because of his fear that on their journey he might possibly be attacked again, or face some form of a trap. Her skill had proven to be useful to him, but now she wished that he had never known. His obsession with taking her everywhere was more than just a little loathsome. Before, she at least had been granted some reprieve and was allowed to work in the kitchen from time to time. Now there was no escape from him.
During the mage's greeting and disgusting show of affection that followed, Hawke became scarce. Danarius needed to be in Talla's good graces and Hawke obviously put the woman in a stink. Luckily, she was allowed to venture to the slave quarters while Danarius and Talla visited before dinner. With Fenris still accompanying them she really didn't know what to do with her time.
Wandering the estate was a horrible idea, no telling who she would run into. Offering to help the other slaves was not going to happen. She was already forced to serve Danarius, and unless he asked, she was not about to voluntarily assist Talla's household as well.
So to pass the time, she did nothing. A bench was set up against the far wall of the slave house. Sitting down, she closed her eyes and tried to give herself some peace before the inevitable belittlement dinner would bring.
With her head propped up against the wall she relived every pleasant memory she could conjure, which mostly involved Fenris. She smiled as she remembered holding his hand on the back of the carriage on the way here. Such a simple gesture, but one she cherished whole-heartedly.
"Should you not be with Danarius?" a masculine voice asked directly in front of her.
Opening one eye she tried to see who the inquisitive man was, but the blaring sun blinded her. Propping her arm up to shield her eyes she peered up and immediately recognized him. "Master Leland. I have been ordered to become invisible for the time being."
Leland smiled and took a seat next to her on the bench. "Just Leland. And you aren't doing a very good job. This spot can be seen from nearly every part of the mansion."
Looking over to him, she noticed he was still smiling at her. Becoming bashful at his unwavering stare, Hawke stared down at her feet. An awkward silence stretched between them. Well, at least awkward for her. His eyes were boring into the side of her face, and she had the distinct impression that he was still grinning at her. "So…" she cleared her throat and tried to think of something to say to him. "Do you live here with Talla?"
Leland chuckled like that was the most absurd thing he'd ever heard. "Of course not. No offense to her, but my sister can be kind of a bitch."
Immediately she eased. "Tell me about it." Remembering herself, she threw her hands out in apology. "I'm sorry. I mean no offense."
He waved her off. "Don't worry. I know her. She can be a little... let's just say overbearing."
Hawke smiled. She liked Leland. Despite his piercing stare, she was surprisingly comfortable talking with him. "Are you staying through dinner? It is going to be quite a show. I can already sense Talla readying her ammunition against me."
Leland laughed. It was a deep, husky sound that sent a wave an ease down her spine. "Yes I will be here. And don't worry, if Talla gets carried away, I'll put her back in her place." He looked over and smiled at her, all pearly white teeth, perfectly offsetting his tan skin. Despite herself, Hawke found herself returning his grin.
"There you are," Fenris sighed as he rounded the corner. "I've been looking all over for…" As his noticed Leland sitting next to her he stiffened. "Forgive me, I did not mean to intrude."
Hawke hid her smile. Even though he apologized for the intrusion, Fenris made no move to retreat and leave them alone again.
Leland could obviously sense the hostility coming off Fenris and stood from the bench. Turning to Hawke, he bowed and smiled. "Till dinner."
"Till dinner," she nodded back at him.
The entire time Leland made his way back to the mansion, Fenris was burning holes into the back of his head. "What did he want?" he scowled.
"I haven't the slightest idea, but I assume that since you are here, Talla and Danarius required some privacy?"
"Yes." Still staring at Leland, Fenris slowly moved to sit as close as possible next to her on the bench. Hawke relaxed and eased into his side.
She frowned and leaned her head onto his shoulder. "It is going to be a horrible night, isn't it?" With Danarius desperately trying to get in Talla's good graces, there would be no restriction on what the mage would be allowed to do or say to her.
"I will be there," he whispered and reached for her hand. As he lovingly stroked her fingers Hawke tried to prepare herself for the gauntlet she was about to have to endure.
Hawke hoped and prayed to the Maker that she would be excused from dinner. But for whatever reason, Danarius was adamant that she attend. It made no sense to her. Talla could barely stand the sight of her; why her master would want to put them in the same room was a mystery. He was such an asshole.
Fenris tried to ease her nerves, and as much as she appreciated his efforts it only moderately helped. As they waited outside Danarius's chamber he stroked her back, occasionally wrapping his fingers in the tip of her ponytail.
This was the worst part. Waiting.
"You know," Fenris leaned into her ear and whispered. "Each time Danarius visits Talla the two of them share a room. I am always sent back to my quarters. Perhaps tonight they will desire privacy as well."
The husky, seductive tone of his voice sent a shiver up her spine. Privacy for her master meant privacy for them. Breathless with the anticipation of being utterly alone with him, she turned over her shoulder to look at him. "That would be wonderful."
His lip curled up just barely as he brushed his mouth against the base of her neck. "Mmmm…very wonderful."
She felt his body shift behind her and his hand slowly move down her spine. Maker, her body was on fire for him. Feeling his warm breath fan across her neck was nearly enough to have her come undone. When his hand found her hip and squeezed, Hawke couldn't stop her moan. "Fenris," she whispered, something between a plea and a warning.
He growled at the sound of his name, but took a step back from her, releasing his hold. Knowing that for the moment he needed some space to calm himself, Hawke moved to stand across from him, but couldn't stop herself from staring into his eyes.
Breathing heavily he stared back, then adjusted himself in his pants, promising her of what would come later tonight. Sweet Maker, she hoped it would be her.
Just as they caught their breath the door to Danarius's chamber opened, revealing their master in his best robes. Obviously, he was trying his best to woo Talla tonight. From what she had heard earlier in the day, Talla was making him work for the information he was seeking. No doubt relishing in the attention he was giving her, even though it was forced. Right now her master would give his right nut if it meant learning who was behind all this.
What Hawke couldn't understand was if Danarius was so special to Talla how could she know who was trying to kill him and not tell him? She suspected that it was some twisted fascination on her part. Like most Magisters, she probably was getting off on the power she had over the man she wanted.
Magisters…she would never understand them.
As they entered the dining room, Hawke took her place behind Danarius's chair and stood straight, staring directly across to the wall. Tonight a few Magisters Hawke didn't recognize were joining them and all stood waiting to take their seats as Talla and Leland entered the room.
Leland pulled Talla's chair out for her then walked to the head of the table. He bowed to all those that were present then took his seat. The others followed. When he settled he looked over to Hawke and gave her a wink. Rolling her eyes, she turned to look back at the wall in front of her.
Most of the meal was uneventful. That was until Talla had a glass of wine in her. Hawke felt her cruel eyes begin to narrow in on her.
"I think its horrid what Clayden has done," she spoke in that ugly condescending tone of hers. "Marrying a servant. How horrible."
"Talla…" Leland broke in. "It is not polite to speak of others when they are not present."
She scoffed at him and took another swig on her wine. "Please, I'm just saying what everyone else is thinking. That woman is a disgrace and she shames him. Look at her daughter. A slave. And nothing but Fereldan trash…Clayden makes a mockery of us."
Hawke ignored her jab. So what if she bad-mouthed her mother. It wasn't like the woman was going out of her way to save her. At this very moment she was probably no doubt sipping expensive wine at her dinner table being served the finest food Tevinter had to offer.
Hawke was only vaguely aware that Talla had begun speaking again. She kept her eyes forward and did her best to tune her out.
"But that other daughter. Bethany."
Hearing her sister's name brought her back to the room. She glared over at Talla, daring her to continue the statement. As far as she was concerned Bethany was innocent in all of this, and no matter the consequences she wouldn't have Talla insulting her.
"What a whore…"
That did it. Without thinking Hawke jerked towards Talla, prepared to leap across the table and strangle the bitch. She felt Fenris's hands encircle her waist as he tried to pull her back. The evil grin on Talla's face only hiked her adrenaline and she thrashed in his hold to get free. In a low whisper he tried to tell her to relax and think of the repercussions, but Hawke was livid. The sound of a chair skidding back against the floor momentarily drew her attention.
Leland had stood from the table. "I would like to say that I have met Mistress Bethany, and she is very pleasant. Please forgive my sister's assumptions."
Hawke relaxed in Fenris's arms, but was still breathing heavily from her anger. She felt his fingers discreetly rub across the small of her back before he let go and returned to his spot next to Danarius.
"Perhaps you would like some fresh air?" Leland looked directly at her and smiled before he extended his hand.
She heard Talla gasp and loved that she might be able to get under her skin even more. Throwing a hard glare at Talla she answered. "Yes. I would love some fresh air, Leland." Even more gasps erupted from the table as she addressed him so informally.
"Danarius, if it would not offend, I would like Hawke to escort me on a walk of the estate."
Her master looked to Talla for permission, which he would never do if he wasn't so overly concerned with using her connections. Talla smiled, obviously relishing in the power she currently had over him. "Leland is a grown man. If he wishes to associate with filth, that is his decision," Talla spoke.
"Then no, it would not offend. She most definitely needs to cool off, I think," Danarius added. "Would you like her to be punished for her outburst, darling?"
Talla pretended to ponder the question. "Not this time. As much as I would love to see her whipped, I think for now I am satisfied. But she would be wise to remember her place in the future. I am not one to excuse an action like that twice."
Danarius narrowed his eyes in her direction. Swallowing her pride she bowed to the woman. "Forgive me, my lady. My actions were inexcusable. I will be better in the future."
All Talla responded with was a huff, then she and Leland left the dining room. Instead of walking the estate he led her to the balcony off of the sitting room that overlooked the courtyard.
Hawke said nothing but was grateful for the opportunity to be away from the group of Magisters. She leaned against the railing and inhaled the cool night wind.
"Not all Magisters are as she is," Leland spoke from behind her. When she looked over her shoulder at him, he approached to stand beside her.
"My father is a good man. A very good man. True, he has done some bad things, but my hope is that when I take over his estate, I will be able to change that."
Hawke studied his profile, trying to see if she could read a lie on his face. There was none. Only guilt. Perhaps he truly meant what he said. "But you are not a mage," she observed.
"No," he smiled over at her. "No, I am not. But I am the eldest. And his only son. Talla may have inherited his magic, but his wealth and status will be mine once he is gone."
"I hope you will use it wisely."
The silence returned and she turned to look back across the open courtyard. Hopefully, Danarius and Talla would desire privacy tonight so she and Fenris could be alone.
Leland cleared his throat. "You know Talla isn't all bad. There was a time when she was actually quite enjoyable to be around. But being my father's child has its drawbacks. As well as being a mage. She has tried very hard to live up to his expectations. Crucius, that's my father, is very powerful in Miranthous. There are many that envy him, and therefore envy us. But we are not all evil, Hawke. And I will do my best to hold true to that."
Despite herself, she actually believed him. Wanted to believe him. He wasn't hard or cruel like the other nobles of Tevinter she had met. His eyes were kind. His face was sincere. And he treated her like a person, not like a slave. "I believe you will do that," she smiled with a slight nod from her head.
"In hopes of rectifying my sister's actions I have a gift for you."
"Really?" She narrowed her eyes into slits pretending to question his offer.
"Really," he laughed. "Here. This is the key to a guest room. I will not be staying this evening, therefore have no use for it. You deserve to feel normal for a change."
"I don't know," she shook her head seeing all the ways this could get her into trouble.
"You have nothing to worry about. Danarius will be with Talla ALL night long. Trust me on that one. And don't worry, I arrived this morning so the room has been unused. In fact I doubt anyone has slept in there for ages. Please. You look like you need this."
She did need this. And this way she and Fenris could be alone for the entire night. What harm could there truly be in just one night? "Alright." She grabbed the key and stuffed it into her pocket. "Thank you, Leland. This is very kind of you."
"It is my pleasure," he bowed. "Second floor, all the way at the end of the first hallway."
Just then they heard raised voices filter through the sitting room. Dinner was finished. "I really do feel better," Hawke said and was surprised that she actually did. "I believe I should return to my duties. But I truly thank you."
With that she bowed and left the balcony. When she entered the sitting room Fenris arched his eyebrows in surprise, clearly not aware that she had been just outside the doors. With the Magisters lost in their conversation, Fenris leaned over to her. "What uh-what did, Leland want?"
"Nothing," she shrugged. "We just talked. You know he is actually nice."
"Nice? Huh." When Leland walked back into the room and smiled at Hawke, she swore she heard Fenris growl. "Are you better now?"
Turning towards him, it was obvious that he was irritated. His jaw was clenched tight and his eyes had narrowed. Plus, he refused to look her in the eyes. Fenris was jealous. "Have I told you how incredibly handsome you are today?" she smiled. Yeah, she was buttering him up but she meant it, too.
"No."
She chuckled at his curt response. "Well, you are. And for the record I can't wait to be alone with you."
Though he didn't respond, his body language said all she needed to know. A fierce roll of his shoulders, followed by a little shuffle of his body weight from foot to foot. When he finally turned his head to look at her the lust in his eyes was clear.
Fenris couldn't wait to be alone with her either. The day had been long and tiresome. Hopefully, they would be able to find a corner in the slave quarters that would offer them some privacy.
The two stood in silence for the remainder of the evening, both waiting to be alone. Finally, Leland excused himself, informing Talla that he was returning home. Apparently he had very important business he needed to take care off.
Yeah, like how not to be a jackass, Fenris thought then immediately berated himself. Where did that come from? Was he twelve years old? There was no reason for him to be jealous of the man. For all intents and purposes Hawke was his. And if someone planned on taking her away from him they would be met with a fight. She was his only source of happiness and he'd be damned if he just let her slip away.
Shortly after Leland left, the other guests decided to return to their own quarters as well. Danarius turned towards the two of them. "I will not be needing your services tonight. Meet me at the stables just after dawn. We will be leaving first thing in the morning."
Both bowed and waited for Danarius and Talla to leave the room. When gone, Fenris began leading Hawke towards the slave quarters.
"Actually," she gripped his arm and pulled him to a stop. "I was thinking maybe we could stay somewhere else for the night."
"And where would that be?"
Hawke pulled out a key and smiled at him. "This is a key to one of the guest rooms. Before you tell me it's a bad idea, think about it. We would get to be all alone…with a bed."
A rush of heat soared through his body, but his brain kicked into gear. "We will get caught. And where did you get that anyway?"
Not meeting him in the eyes she responded. "Leland gave it to me." Fenris suppressed his growl. "Oh come on. I just want to feel normal, Fenris. Please, just this once, let's do something for us."
His head was telling him no, this was a bad idea. But his heart…and his loins…were telling him to just do it. They might not ever get an opportunity like this again. "Alright."
Hawke squealed then jumped into his arms. Seeing her smile and hearing her giggle with excitement was enough to tell him that he made the right decision.
Once she had composed herself she pulled away from him and took his hand. "Let's go," she whispered and began leading him towards the room.
The two of them crept through the shadows, trying to go undetected. Once they had reached the second floor without incident, Hawke led him down a hallway then stopped in front of the last door. With a shaky hand she brought the key to the lock.
Fenris half expected it to be some kind of trap, but when she turned it and opened the door in one swift motion, the room was dark. The glow of the moon told him that it was empty.
The two of them cautiously stepped through the door. She shut and locked them in. Both stood in silence. Waiting. And waiting.
When no one jumped out to yell at them and no one banged on the door to deliver their punishment, Fenris relaxed.
Hawke reached across the space between them and took his hand. When she smiled at him, his control faltered and he swept her close to his body. Not wasting time he cradled her face and crushed his mouth to hers. She was clutching at him desperately, meeting the intensity of his kiss. When Hawke pushed him back into the wall, he moaned then brought his hands to her hips. Squeezing, he pulled her as close as they could be. He felt her smile when their lower bodies touched. "Fenris..." she breathed against his mouth.
"Yes," he managed to choke out.
"It's freezing in here. Do you think we could light a fire?"
Not wanting her to be uncomfortable he nodded, then gave her one more quick kiss before walking over to the fireplace.
Fenris concentrated on stacking the logs and catching the kindling. When he felt like there was a good enough flame going he stood and looked back to Hawke.
She had taken the opportunity to remove her gauntlets, boots, and weapons. Walking over to him, she flashed a nervous smile. Slowly, she drew him in for a soft kiss. Their lips met with the barest of touches, but the warmth of her lips and breath had him gasping for air. Not wanting to ruin the moment, he gently placed his hands on her hips then moved on to cradle her back.
She withdrew from the kiss and began removing the buckles of his armor. While she went to work on his breastplate, he watched her.
Her face was focused, her eyes drawn together in concentration as she tried to figure out all the clasps and releases. He decided not to help her; watching her undress him for the first time was something he definitely wanted for his memories.
When the breastplate was released, he shrugged out of it then offered his hand for her to remove his gauntlet. Once bare, she reached for the other and repeated the task. Next came his boots, which she took equal care removing. From her knees she stared up at him, bringing all sorts of fantasies to life.
Hawke obviously saw the desire burning in his eyes and stood to her feet to pull his tunic off as well. When his chest was bare, she gasped softly then ran her fingers up his stomach and onto his shoulders. Fenris wrapped his arms around her waist and brought her in close.
He felt her lips brushing along his collarbone, causing him to sigh. This moment felt so perfect. Everything about it was like something out of a dream. Burying his head in her neck he began gently kissing her soft flesh there. When she moaned and leaned into him, Fenris decided to remove some of her clothing as well.
At an agonizingly slow pace he pushed his fingers under the back of her top. While his mouth kept working on the sweet skin of her neck his fingertips brushed the smoothness of her lower back. At a gradual pace he brought his hand to her slender waist. All he could think about was how incredibly perfect her body was.
When the pad of his thumb reached the marred flesh of her lower abdomen his hand and mouth froze.
Quickly Hawke pulled away from him and tried to push his hand from underneath her shirt, clearly embarrassed about the burn Danarius had left her with. Without meeting his eyes, she spoke quietly, so quietly he could barely hear her voice. "I can leave my shirt on. It's ok."
Fenris took a deep breath and looked down towards her hand that was gripping the hem of her shirt. The three bold black lines of Danarius's slave mark marred her wrist as well. In that moment he realized that even though she didn't have lyrium within her flesh, Tevinter, the Magisters, Danarius…it had scarred her, too. For the rest of her life she wouldn't be able to look at her body without remembering what had happened here.
"You are beautiful," he whispered then gently began rubbing his fingers along her scarred skin.
Hawke took in a shaky breath then wrapped her arms around his torso, holding desperately to him. He felt her body shake as he attempted to soothe her. "You can leave it on if you like, but there is nothing wrong with your body, Hawke. You are the most stunning woman I have ever seen."
Gradually, she lifted her head and smiled weakly at him, the beginnings of tears in her eyes. After taking a moment to compose herself, she reached up on her tiptoes and brought her mouth to his. While they shared a slow, sweet kiss, he felt her leading him towards the bed.
When the back of her knees hit the mattress she eased down, releasing her hold on his mouth. Timidly, as if she was still uncertain, she reached for the hem of her top then began raising it up over her head. Fenris watched in fascination as she exposed her flesh to him. Her stomach was all flat muscles. Her waist narrow. The breastbinding she wore pushed her breast high, he wanted desperately to feel those with his own hands, but was afraid to push her further.
Once the shirt was discarded, Hawke eased herself back on the bed then laid down flat on her back. Still watching him she undid the laces of her pants then slid them slowly down her hips. Fenris knew his mouth was hanging open as her legs were exposed. Kicking her pants to the floor she looked to him.
There was anticipation in her eyes, and Fenris tried to quickly store every detail of this scene. Her hair spread out against the white pillowcase, one arm curved up over her head with the other at her side. Her black undergarments setting of the tan of her skin and perfectly matching her black hair. One of her legs bent up at the knee, and her stomach rising and falling slowly with each heavy breath she took.
"You are magnificent…" he choked out.
She smiled widely then beckoned him to come to her with a curl of her finger. Crawling up the bed, he laid himself parallel to her body. He started to reach out to touch her exposed torso then hesitated. When he looked to her she leaned her head up and claimed his mouth. While kissing him, she led his hand to her stomach to tell him it was ok, and then draped her arms around his neck.
Spreading his fingers wide he rubbed the expanse of her stomach, remembering not to still when he reached her scar. As his hand passed over it he squeezed her waist, then trailed down over to her back and down until he rested at the top of her thigh. When she gasped into his mouth, he felt it all the way down to his groin. On its own accord his hand began rubbing her leg, getting closer and closer to the spot he was aching to touch.
Just as his fingers were about to brush against her, he felt a tremble go through her body. Afraid that he was pushing her too fast, he pulled away and looked into her eyes.
"We don't have to do anything you don't want to, Hawke."
"What?" She looked confused by his statement.
"You are trembling."
Focusing on his collarbone she started tracing its line across his chest. "I'm just nervous. I've thought about this moment so many times, it's hard to believe that it's finally happening. If I tremble it's a good thing," she smiled. He could understand the feeling. Looking into his eyes she continued. "I want you, Fenris. I want you to make me yours."
"You are mine," he whispered then brushed his lips against her cheek.
When she gave a relieved breath and rolled into him, Fenris pulled her leg over his own and softly gripped her behind. With determination she opened her mouth over his and kissed him hard. Letting her take the lead for the moment, he returned the urgency of the kiss and felt his dick twitch when she pushed him over onto his back so she could straddle his waist.
Her stray strands of hair tickled his face and made him smile as he tried to brush it back behind her ear. Leaning up on her knees, she wasn't quite touching his lower body with hers, and Fenris had to fight not to raise his hips up to meet her. It was important to him that she be allowed to set the pace of this. He wasn't sure how far she wanted this to go or how quickly she wanted it to progress, and with his limited experience with women he didn't want to make any mistakes with her.
When she abruptly sat up and lowered her body on to him, Fenris groaned. The very center of her was exactly where he needed it to be. She smiled down at him and deliberately rolled her hips across the length of him. Throwing his head back, he couldn't stop his hands from moving to her thighs or pushing up to meet her.
Pulling her ponytail over her shoulder, Hawke reached behind her back and slowly unclasped her breastbinding. Fenris swallowed hard as she removed the fabric from her chest, exposing herself to him. True, he had seen her naked before, but it was nothing like this.
She was offering herself to him, allowing him to touch, stare, and hold as much and as often as he wanted. While he was staring at her breast like he was in some sort of trance, Hawke moved her hands down to his. Gripping them she guided them up, closing them over her exposed flesh.
Fenris froze as the heaviness of her breasts , and the roughness of her erect nipples filled his palms. A part of him was panicking, not knowing what he was supposed to do now. Luckily, Hawke took the lead and leaned down to his mouth. As she began kissing him, his body relaxed and his fingers began their exploration of her breasts. When he squeezed, he felt her moan and heard the catch of her breath. As his thumbs traced over the now tight peaks, Hawke rolled her hips into him.
His erection was hard and aching to be free and inside her. One of his hands left her breast, traveling down her stomach until it rested against her hip. Gripping her flesh he pushed up to meet the soft thrusts of her body, mimicking the act both were obviously dying to do.
A sudden need to have her body beneath him had him rolling over with her, pushing himself between her spread legs. Hawke gasped and he felt her blunt nails scrape across the flesh of his shoulders, down to his lower back. Bringing one of her hands between their bodies, she dragged it across the length of him, squeezing as she reached the head. The sensation had him struggling for breath. And as she continued he whispered her name. Hawke found his ear and licked the length of it.
"I want it, Fenris. Please…"
Hearing the soft beg sent tingles down his spine. Trying to control himself, he rolled off of her and reached down to unlace his breeches.
Though he wasn't looking at her, he knew she was studying his every move. And as he pushed his pants past his hips, letting his erection spring free, Hawke gasped. The sound was one of awe and appreciation, causing his male ego to soar. When he looked at her, she was studying him, practically salivating.
Licking her lips she met his eyes then smiled as if she was embarrassed. But now it was his turn to study her every move. Slowly, she hooked her thumbs under the band of her panties then began a gradual shimmy out of them. Keeping her legs together, she pushed them past her hips and over her knees until they fell from her feet.
Both naked, they stared at one another's bodies, trying to memorize every detail they could, knowing that they might not ever get the chance again.
Hawke opened her legs a fraction and reached across the bed for him. His heart began to race, and Fenris felt sweat building across his skin in anticipation.
Gathering his courage, he rolled towards her and took her mouth. Using a soft amount of tongue he pushed into her lips. Timidly, he brought his hand to her lower stomach and spread his fingers wide. When she didn't jerk away but arched into him, he continued. While he kissed her, his hand trailed down to the softness between her legs. She opened wider for him and as soon as his fingers felt the warm wetness, he knew she was ready. Taking a moment, he allowed himself to feel her, dragging his fingers up and down her opening, drawing circles across the top.
When finished he had her panting, nearly begging him to take her. Rolling over, he settled himself between her legs and felt his tip fall just at the entrance of her body. He looked into her eyes, half expecting to see apprehension and second thoughts, but only lust and love stared back at him.
Cradling his face, she began kissing him then let one of her hands fall between their bodies. As she gripped him in her hand, Fenris had to break the kiss and then he placed his forehead against hers. Their mouths lingered just a fraction away from one another. Their breaths and soft pants mingled together as she brought him to her opening and pushed up with her hips.
Just the tip of him entered her, but he felt a rush of blood straight to his groin. Removing her hand she brought it back up to cradle his face so he could take over. With a shaky breath he pushed slowly. When his entire head had penetrated her, he had to still. Her body was so warm, and wet, and incredibly tight.
When she shifted beneath him, he started to move again, gradually sliding his shaft further and further into her.
Every inch gained caused them both to moan and as their bodies finally fully connected, he heard a soft whimper escape her mouth. "Maker," she breathed.
She had no idea. His body felt like it was on fire, every nerve ending tingling, every muscle tensing. When he pulled out nearly all the way and pushed back into her slowly, his breath caught. Nothing in his life had ever felt this good. No woman had ever made his body react this way. Hawke was special. She was his.
Bringing her hands down to his hips, she urged him to continue. Knowing that given the way his body was already feeling he might not be able to last long, Fenris started slow, rolling his hips in an easy rhythm that had them both panting and moaning with each movement.
Propping himself up on his elbows, he looked down into her eyes as he took her. They glistened slightly and he loved every way her face contorted as he gradually sped up his pace. Sometimes her mouth would fall open, other times her teeth would grind together. When she especially liked it, her eyes would close and she would scrape her teeth across her lower lip. Fenris focused on keeping up that steady rhythm.
Her feet hooked over his calf and her nails dug into his back. When he began moving just a little faster she threw her head back. "Yes…Fenris…"
Unable to continue staring at her face without losing himself, he buried his head into her shoulder.
Abruptly, her breath caught and she inhaled quickly, struggling to find the air she needed as he pounded into her. Her whole body tensed and she arched up into him, wrapping her legs and arms around his body, holding him as close as she could. His pace was quick, firing into her with short, hard thrusts that had her breathing wildly.
He was giving her this. He was causing her this pleasure. It was his body that was causing her to make those amazing sounds.
When her nails dug into his back and she threw her head back, Fenris had to look at her. Her face was caught in a look of blissful agony as she rode out the waves of her orgasm.
As she started to relax, a smile spread across her face then she turned to him and showered kisses all across his face. He couldn't help but smile back as the soft pecks of adoration and appreciation covered every inch of his face.
They both chuckled as their mouths found one another and he began moving more slowly. "That was amazing," she whispered against his mouth.
"You are amazing, Hawke."
She cradled his face and kissed him slowly as he continued to move inside of her. Her tongue brushed against his and sent a tingle down his spine. Gripping her shoulders, he began delivering hard, long thrusts that had her body jerking with each connection.
Sweat was building across his body, his blood was pumping fast. The smooth skin of her legs was rubbing against his own. Raking her fingers into his hair, she held his mouth in place as he pounded into her.
Soon he couldn't keep his lips and tongue moving. The only sensation he could focus on was the heat of her perfect body. The steady pulse building in his cock. With a grunt he gripped the headboard and pulled hard against her.
Releasing his mouth, Hawke trailed kisses to his ear then buried her head in the crook of his neck. Each soft catch of her breath, each small whimper echoed through to his dick. It was coming.
Her walls tightened around him, and Hawke gasped as he quickened his pace. The pounding was building. The blood was rushing. The tingles intensifying.
With a growl he reared his head back and came with such fierceness he wasn't sure how his body continued to move. Nothing could ever compare to this release, to this moment in time where he and Hawke were joined. She was everything.
Everything. His past. His present. Most definitely his future. He realized he was nothing without her.
Gradually, his body came down from the high and he finished with a few more hard thrusts before collapsing on top of her.
As his breath slowly came back into his lungs, Fenris felt the soft barely there touch of Hawke's fingers as she rubbed up and down the length of his spine. Using his elbows, he tried to take as much weight off of her as he could while still letting their bodies touch. This had been perfect. Everything he knew it would be and so much more.
But still it wasn't enough. This was going to end, and it would end badly if they were ever discovered. Even though Danarius typically didn't worry himself with the physical relationships of his slaves, especially when young might be produced, the two of them would be treated differently.
Given both their skill and strength he would see their union as a threat to him and would do everything in his power to take Hawke away from him.
Closing his eyes, Fenris placed feather light kisses along her shoulder and up her neck. Hawke sighed with contentment and wrapped her arms and legs around his body, pulling him in as close as possible. When she squeezed then relaxed her hold on him, Fenris rolled over onto his side and stared deep into her eyes. "I cannot lose you, Hawke," he confessed, then winced upon hearing the shakiness in his voice.
Propping up on her elbow she looked down at him and began smoothing his hair back behind his ear. "I will always be yours, Fenris. Nothing will ever change that."
He closed his eyes and pulled her to his chest. This was too much. All of these emotions, this possessiveness, the utter terror of having something happen to her…
"What if…what if Danarius finds out?" he asked.
He felt her tense then pull closer, burying her head in the crook of his neck. "I don't know. We will just have to be careful. I know tonight was reckless, but I'm glad it happened."
"Me too," he agreed then looked down into her eyes. She smiled up at him and he knew that it was the right choice. Reaching over her body, he pulled the blanket over her, cocooning her against his chest. Hawke smiled and craned her neck up to kiss him.
In the warmth of the bed, by the light of the fire, he and Hawke kissed and kissed until neither one of their lips could move any longer and exhaustion finally pulled them into a sweet slumber.
When Hawke awakened she immediately reached across the bed for him, but her fingers only found the cold blanket telling her that he had been up for a while.
With a stretch and a yawn, she slowly came out of her sleep and sat up in the bed. Standing in front of the fireplace, Fenris was fully clothed and didn't look at her as she wrapped the blanket around her body and went to him.
When she touched his shoulder, he stiffened and calmly pulled away from her. "Is everything alright?" she whispered.
"It's fine," he answered not meeting her eyes.
His cold demeanor and obvious unease made her stomach drop. Deciding not to push him, she looked out the window and noticed that dawn was coming. While he continued to stare into the fireplace she went around the room collecting her clothing and straightening up so no one would know they had been there.
"My memories…" Fenris suddenly broke through the silence. "One moment they were all there. Each face, each name. Like they had never been forgotten…"
As he trailed off Hawke quietly put on her last glove and walked over to him, but given the way he reacted the last time, she didn't touch him.
"Do you have any idea what's it's like to have everything taken from you?" he snarled at her.
Hawke flinched then stood tall, not appreciating the tone he was taking. "As a matter of fact, I do, Fenris."
"At least your memories are still intact. And yes, your mother married a Magister, but you can still remember her face and think on the happy times you had together…"
He ran his hand down his face then he turned his back on her. "Everything was there. I saw it all and then in a flash it was all gone. Like it had never been there at all."
"Fenris…" she reached for his elbow only to have him jerk out of her touch again.
"While I dreamt every image from my past came back, then just as soon as I started to recognize places and people everything was replaced by visions of you."
Her stomach dropped. So this was where the hostility was coming from. Now he was blaming her? "I'm sorry. I truly am. But I did not take your memories away from you, Fenris. Not the first time and not this time. Do not blame me for something I have no control over."
Grapping her daggers with a jerk she strapped them to her legs. "Now if you'll excuse me, I'm going down to the stables before Danarius awakens." As she headed for the door, he whispered her name.
Despite her anger, her legs stopped moving. When he didn't continue, she huffed and turned around. His back was still to her, but now his shoulders sagged. "Say what you have to say, Fenris before I lose my patience."
Slowly he turned around and cautiously walked towards her. Taking her hand in his he stared down as their fingers wrapped around one another. "Forgive me. It was unfair for me to place the blame on you." With a deep breath he raised his head to look into her eyes and her heart melted.
He carried so much pain within him. So much heartache. She had hoped that this night would have given him some good memories, but now he would forever remember it as the night they were taken away from him again. "I'm on your side, Fenris," she whispered. "We'll figure this out. One way or another you and I will figure this out and will be free from Danarius once and for all. Have faith." She placed their joined hands at her heart then cradled his face with the other. Closing his eyes he turned into her palm and exhaled a slow breath. "Come on. Let's get out of here before Danarius beats us to the stables."
Fenris nodded and let her lead him out the door and down the hallway. Once they reached the main floor, she released his hand in case someone saw them. At the stables they both made sure everything was ready to depart as soon as Danarius arrived.
When their master emerged from the house with Talla on his arm and a sea of servants carrying far more luggage than he arrived with to the carriages, Hawke felt her stomach drop. This could not be happening.
Danarius ordered the servants to load up one of the carriages then escorted Talla to the other. Once she was inside, he walked over to them and looked Hawke directly in her eyes. "She will be staying with us for the time being. You are to do exactly as she says, without question. Is that understood?"
"Yes, master," she bowed, swallowing the excess spit that had formed in her mouth.
When they finished loading up the luggage, she and Fenris took their seat on the back of the carriage. As they started moving out of the estate, Fenris reached over and grabbed her hand. She appreciated the comfort he was offering, but knew that something bad was coming.
Very bad.
A/N: Sadly, my updates have caught up with my writing. I have nearly finished the next chapter so once I get Hatsepsut to take a look at it and correct all my silly mistakes (you're the best girl) I will post it. But just a heads up that there might be a little longer period between updates for the time being. Thanks for reading, it makes my heart sing.