Happy Monday everyone :)

The long awaited Wicked Grace is finally upon us! I did not forget, I just was trying to figure out where in the story it should go. And here seemed like the perfect place. I personally did not have Cullen fully naked at the end because I felt it was a bit out of character for him in the game. So I added my own twist to it. Plus we get a story from Lara so enjoy the little insight!

First we start with a Cullen POV/flashback after their battlement kiss.

Thank you everyone for all the love so far. It never goes unnoticed x

Without further ado…

—-

Chapter 36:

He could hardly believe it finally happened. His fingers traced his lips, reliving the moment on the battlements. The sensation of her lips on his only tempted him for more. To taste more of her, to devour her. That gasp she made as he lunged for her plagued his mind, constantly replaying. What other sounds would she make when he tasted her? The thought made his cock twitch. He buried those instincts down knowing if he took too much too soon, he'd only scare her away.

She's mine. Maker, she's finally mine.

Disbelief followed him as he made his way to his men for their morning debriefing before a day of training. Since he first laid eyes on her in that dungeon, he knew she belonged to him but he never imagined that she'd say yes. That she would even want him especially since she was only too eager to hold his past against him at every turn.

Then take me.

Those words echoed in his mind on repeat. A crack in her walls she fought so hard to keep up around him. She had wanted him. Luckily, he was a patient man and this moment was worth every agonizing day. As he entered the corridor, he could hear chatter amongst his men. Excitement ran high in their voices as they talked and laughed. He had no idea what they could possibly be celebrating this early in the morning but as soon as he opened the door, the room quieted and the soldiers took their seats, looking at each other.

Cullen arched an eyebrow noticing the now weird atmosphere in the room. He knew some of the men were wary of him because of his withdrawals but this was something else.

"Right, to work. As you know, since the Inquisitor's victory with Empress Celene, Orlais has numerous territories that need our help. Adamant was only the beginning, however, I am proud of how valiantly you all fought. Now, we have a full week of training ahead of us in preparation for what lies ahead. Shall I remind everyone of the schedules?" Cullen started the meeting, shuffling through his papers.

More silence, followed by more darting eyes. Some soldiers tried to hide their smiles. Rylen wore a smirk on his face, trying to hold back his laughter. Something was definitely up if Rylen was smirking, shit-stirrer that he was.

"Does anyone care to share what's so amusing?" He asked, putting his clipboard on the desk.

Another silence. Cullen pinched the bridge of his nose. Most of his patience was given to Lara over the past couple of months. He found he had very little for everything else.

"They know lad," Rylen spoke up.

"Know what?" Cullen asked.

"Actually there's one thing we want to know. After your kiss, did anything else happen?" A soldier piped up.

All the men were on the edge of their seats as if hoping for something. Cullen flushed, suddenly feeling sweaty under his armor. So this is what they were celebrating? He shuffled nervously before answering.

"Maker's Breath…no, we've only kissed," He answered.

He was met with some cheers and others waving their hands in disappointment. Cullen didn't miss the money being passed around by a few of the soldiers. He was proud of his men but they also exhausted him. They fought well and were true soldiers but away from the battlefield, he felt like he was herding a flock of teenage boys.

"Andraste preserve me…you've all placed bets?!" Cullen exclaimed.

Rylen let out his laughter as he took money from one of the soldiers.

"Oh, you're in on this too, are you?" Cullen crossed his arms over his chest.

"Sorry lad," He shrugged while wearing a sheepish grin on his face.

Cullen let out a deep sigh as he pinched the bridge of his nose again. The dull ache persisted in the back of his head and he wished he had brought some elfroot tea with him.

"Do I even want to know when all this started?" Cullen spoke after the noise quieted down.

"After she gave you a good seeing to in Haven," A soldier spoke up, chuckling.

Cullen looked up, eyes wide in disbelief. Had his men really been onto him since Haven? Was his attraction to her that obvious? He remembered that moment all too well. His actions were out of line, but she had not been herself after Redcliffe. Those events had drained all the fight out of her, leaving her a shell of a human for weeks. It had killed him to witness her in that state day after day. Until his actions had somehow sparked that fire back in her and she had dressed him down in front of his own men.

Conflicting emotions ran rampant throughout his body at her outburst. A part of him relished it because she finally noticed him after weeks of avoiding him. She had sought him out specifically. Even if it was in anger, he would take it if it meant she felt something towards him. The other part of him wished to take her, wished to fuck the fight out of her till she fell apart underneath him, only screaming his name. He shuffled uncomfortably, clearing his throat. Kissing her wasn't his only desire he had about her. His resistance was starting to spread thin. It had been so long since he had been with a woman, and even longer since he ever had an ounce of feelings towards another woman after what happened in Ferelden Circle. The closer he got to her, the more his need grew.

"What could you possibly have betted on then?" Cullen dared to ask.

"Whether the fight was going to end up in angry sex or not," Another soldier spoke up.

"Maker…nothing happened that time," Cullen shook his head.

"Aye, they know. Some men lost that bet," Rylen answered, chuckling.

"Took you two bloody long enough!"

"Eh, she's a feisty one. Gave Cullen a hard time!" A few soldiers chuckled.

"Yeah, well, he's had it bad for her since Haven!" A few soldiers nodded in agreement.

"So does this mean you're officially together? You're actually dating the Inquisitor?"

Silence. Cullen shuffled nervously, unsure how to answer this. He needed to ensure Lara didn't know that his men knew. She was so locked up it was sometimes hard to get a read on her. She would seek him out, they would take two steps forward only for her to keep him at arm's length for days, sometimes weeks. He could sense the desperation of her holding onto him as an enemy, but layer by layer he knew he was tearing that wall down. He would fight for her every single day but he was cautious of scaring her away. The men were staring at him on the edge of their seats again.

"Not a word of this to the Inquisitor or her friends. It remains between us men. Swear?" Cullen pointed his finger across the room, addressing them.

A chorus of agreements met his ears followed by salutes from his men.

"I have officially asked her. She said yes," Cullen answered.

The sounds of cheers, clapping, and laughter were deafening. Some of his men even approached him congratulating him and clapping him on the back. He sighed, giving in to the celebrations knowing he had no choice. He hated that their private affairs were now known amongst his men but morale hadn't been this high in quite some time. If that's what it took, then Cullen was happy to have it as his expense.

"Going for the boss. Didn't think you had it in you!" A soldier spoke up.

Rylen burst out laughing.

"Maker's Breath," Cullen sighed, running a hand through his hair. "Alright, back to work now."

"Yes Commander," The chorus of soldiers rang with smirks on their faces.

—-

The long overdue day of Wicked Grace was finally upon them and Lara didn't know what the right emotions were. Excitement? Nervousness? Dread? Nothing felt right, but it was her promise to Varric, and Hawke to an extent, so she would keep her word. The tavern had been cleared specifically for this, much to some dismay. Varric had abused her title as Inquisitor so people would bite their tongue. For Hawke's sake, she didn't scold him. The tavern was now huge in comparison with its corners and tables abandoned save for one long table prepared in the middle. Varric really had gathered everyone, even Josephine out of all people. A sight of unruly golden hair caught her eye, and her heart somersaulted and leapt straight into her stomach. Only time would tell if this was a good thing or a bad thing.

"Ah, the woman of the hour is here," Varric greeted her.

Lara couldn't help but smile as she took her seat next to Dorian, and across from Cullen. Josephine greeted her warmly, which Lara returned.

"It's nice to see you have a break Josephine. Especially since I've made your job harder these past few weeks," Lara spoke across the table.

"Yes, you've certainly given me a lot to work with but it's nothing a few negotiations couldn't settle. There is also another matter I did not expect," Josephine replied.

"Which is?" Lara asked.

"It appears that Orlais is aware of the relationship between the Inquisitor and her Commander," Josephine continued.

Shit!

An intense heat rushed throughout her body as she looked away, avoiding anyone's gaze. If Orlais was aware, that meant her family certainly were. Gossip spread like the plague, especially among the nobility. It was another disappointment that would be marked against her by her parents. For stooping herself to someone of lower standards with no prospects for her or her family. Luckily, it didn't matter anymore.

"Oh, I do love a bit of gossip. How have they taken it?" Dorian chimed in.

"Actually, they love it," Josephine answered.

"What?" Lara and Cullen blurted out together.

"The idea of a forbidden romance, so to speak, has captured their fascination. There hasn't been any letter expressing their disapproval or even anger at Lara for choosing Cullen as her lover. If anything, it has given us more opportunities for favors," Josephine finished.

"Oh, this game is going to be interesting. I can feel it," Varric laughed, bringing drinks to the table.

Cullen groaned but Lara couldn't help her smile. Again, she was just Lara. Not Inquisitor. Not Herald. Not the Chosen One. Just Lara. The people gathered around the table were also here as just themselves, without the weight or burden of what awaited in the outside world. She would savor this moment since it would be fleeting.

"We playing cards or what?" Bull interrupted, looking at the face down cards on the table.

"There's a crown on his head, but a sword, too. His head didn't want either," Cole spoke, already looking at his cards.

Bull sighed. "You're going to do that weird shit again, aren't you?"

"Don't talk to the face cards, kid," Varric replied.

"You seem to have quite a few people. I have a thousand things to do," Cullen started, rising from his seat.

Varric only grabbed him and forced him down on the chair.

"Curly, if any man in history ever needed a hobby, it's you," Varric shook his head.

"And no, Lara does not count as a hobby," Dorian added.

Cullen flushed a bright red as he cleared his throat. The table erupted in laughter and whistles. Lara sighed, shooting a glare at all of them. There was no use hiding what existed between them anymore but it didn't mean she couldn't scold them when they got out of line.

"Okay, dealer starts. I believe…I'll start at…three coppers!" Josephine exclaimed. "Do you think that's too daring? Maybe I'll make it one…No! Boldness! Three it is!"

"Three is perfect," Blackwall answered.

Lara didn't miss the warm smile he gave her, and the fluster on Josephine's face. Whatever they had was still going on as well. She only hoped it didn't end in heartbreak for Josephine.

"Seriously? Who starts at three coppers? Silver or go home!" Bull leaned over the table.

"Boldness works for me," Dorian replied.

"I'm in. I'll even add a silver for Bull's sake," Lara smirked at him.

"Alright, Boss! Now we're talking," Bull nodded.

"Blah blah blah, too much talking and not enough cards!" Sera banged her mug under the table.

"Is Sera under the table?" Lara asked in disbelief, looking underneath.

"Yeah, she's only here to watch everyone lose though," Bull answered.

Lara laughed, knowing that was a very Sera thing to do. The normalcy of everyone being surrounded like this warmed her heart. For the first time, she actually belonged somewhere. The bond she felt with everyone sitting at the table was immense but she shook that thought before the emotions overcame her. She drank her wine instead while everyone looked at their cards.

"Are three drakes better than a pair of swords? I can never remember," Cassandra shook her head.

"Seeker, remember how I said 'Don't show anyone your hand'? That rule includes announcing it to the table," Varric replied, chuckling.

"If the Seeker wishes to share, all the better for me," Dorian winked at Cassandra.

"Ugh," Cassandra groaned, looking back at her cards, studying them intensely.

—-

The night continued on in complete failure for everyone, except Josephine. She remembered more of the play than she let on, causing her to collect everyone's loses. It did nothing to dampen the mood of the night, however. Everyone was lost in storytelling, and quite a few rounds of drinks. This was the most carefree Lara had seen anyone and she had never felt more grateful. Even Cullen helped himself to a few ales, but only of the Ferelden variety. He refused anything else. Cullen was busy preparing a round of drinks while Varric was in the middle of telling his story.

"It started, as most capers do, with a trap…" Varric spoke, addressing everyone. The storyteller was here and Lara was entranced by this side of him.

A clink of glass on wood snapped her out of her focus. Her eyes found Cullen's and her body warmed under his gaze. A smile played on his lips as he stared at her. He winked at her, causing butterflies to erupt in her stomach. Her eyes followed him as he placed the rest of the drinks on the table before sauntering back to his seat. There was a lightness to him that she hadn't seen before. It most likely was the ale but the atmosphere of the tavern certainly helped.

"And then Hawke looks up and says, 'Looks like the Duke…has fallen from grace," Varric finished.

Cullen chuckled, along with Cassandra. It was so foreign hearing Cassandra laugh so freely. She was always so serious, Lara was starting to wonder if there was anything else to her. Watching her laugh brought a smile to her face.

"That's how Duke Prosper died? You know, that's almost perfect for him," Josephine replied.

"Drinks are here. Deal another round, Josephine!" Dorian raised his glass.

—-

"The poor recruit ran out into the dining hall in nothing but his knickers. And this…profound silence fell over the hall as seventy mages and thirty templars all turned to stare at once," Cullen shifted closer to the table, lost in his storytelling.

The others had leaned in as well, all engrossed in the story. Lara stared at him in the same look of admiration he watched her in many times before. There was an infectious laughter in his voice, in the words he spoke. It warmed her that not all his experiences in the Circle had haunted him. That there were some good times that he could still remember.

"Then a slow round of applause began, and spread until every soul was on their feet. A standing ovation!" Cullen exclaimed.

Josephine giggled. "What…what did he do?"

"Saluted. Turned on his heel. And marched out like he was in full armor," Cullen answered.

Blackwall burst out laughing, followed by Cassandra who opened her mouth in shock.

"He did not!" She shouted in disbelief.

Bull slammed a fist on the table in laughter. "You're shitting us!"

Lara giggled as she took a few more sips of wine. She was feeling light-headed but also light-hearted. It was a sight she wished would have happened in Ostwick but none of that occurred. Ostwick didn't contain the best of memories for her and it was better to keep them locked away, out of mind.

"Got any stories for us, Lucky?" Varric spoke to her.

Lara swallowed her wine, wincing as it burned her throat. She was not a storyteller, nor was she an open book. Her memories failed her in recalling a funny time. She had chosen to hang onto the worst parts of her life and let them defile her. Let them destroy her chance to live a life full of trust and people. Her walls were a way to protect her, but also destroy her if she wasn't too careful.

"Not any that match the mood," Lara finally answered.

Cullen shot her a concerned look but she refused to make eye contact with him. Now was not a time where she needed him to see through her.

"I find that hard to believe, my dear. Were you not the rebellious child? I'm sure you've caused some mayhem worth hearing in the Trevelyan household," Dorian encouraged her.

"Stick it to the nobles, yeah? C'mon," Sera banged on the table, snickering wildly.

Lara snorted at Sera's outburst. In a way, she was indeed sticking it to the nobles even if she was one herself at the time.

"And let you all think I'm horrible? None of you liked me in the beginning, so no thanks," Lara shrugged, taking another sip.

"Excuse me, I quite liked you in the beginning. Don't lump me in with everyone else," Dorian glared at her.

"I liked you," Varric piped up.

"We all know that's not true for our Commander," Josephine smiled mischievously.

"Defenseless yet powerful. Beauty. Her magic, a compliment. The Maker sent her to me but she doesn't know it yet," Cole spoke, his face hidden behind his hat.

Cullen shifted uncomfortably in his seat, clearing his throat. He flushed as all eyes laid on him. All Lara could hear was her heart beating painfully in her chest. Cole had read his thoughts which transported her back to when she was imprisoned in the dungeons, unconscious for a few days. He had seen her, kept an eye on her all while she was blissfully unaware. Until she laid eyes on him.

"How sweet…" Josephine cooed.

"Kid, we've been over this. Not everyone likes having their thoughts spoken out loud," Varric shook his head.

"There must be something you can share with us. Sometimes I feel like we hardly know you at all," Cassandra changed the subject.

"Any updates on the desk? I do believe the Commander's desk has had more activities than just work," Dorian winked at everyone.

"Ew!" Sera shouted from under the table.

Lara groaned as she buried her head in her hands. The only downside to being this carefree was information spreading that she did not want others knowing. Now her advisor Josephine knew about her extracurricular activities with the Commander.

"Well, I'm impressed, Curly. Didn't think you had it in you," Varric chuckled.

"Is that the same activity that set the curtains on fire?" Cullen shot back.

Bull roared with laughter as he slammed his mug on the table. Dorian shot him a murderous glare while Sera snickered manically under the table. Lara bit her lip, smirking as she watched Cullen. He really did have a layer of sass buried under all that armor and she secretly loved it.

"Since when did you become sassy? I suspect this one's doing no doubt," He pointed to Lara.

"Can't help it if I'm a bad influence on him," She shrugged, taking another sip.

Cullen's eyes widened at her comment, but a hint of a smirk was playing on his lips. The others chuckled in response but all eyes were still on her, waiting for any form of story from her. She knew they were forcing it because she was so locked up. Letting out a sigh, she placed her glass on the table, swirling it gently. Her eyes focused on the pale liquid as it flowed, trying to think of which story to tell.

"There is one about Evangeline. We never got along so she was usually my target," Lara started.

"Your sister I'm guessing?" Varric replied.

"I don't call her that," Lara shook her head.

"Fair enough," Varric reassured her with a smile.

"There was a boy who lived near us that I found attractive. He was a noble, but I never believed anything would have come from it nor did I even want it to. Didn't mean I couldn't look at him," Lara shrugged.

"Now, now Curly. Don't get jealous," Varric teased.

"What? I am not," Cullen frowned as he took a rather forceful gulp of his ale, winning him a smirk from Varric.

"However, Evangeline usually made it her mission to ruin anything for me so I had nothing. She caught me staring at him once and then continued to keep an eye out to make sure it wasn't just a one off. She eventually put it together that I found him attractive and decided to take him for herself. Didn't really care much…but as Sera put it, I guess I wanted to stick it to the nobles," Lara started giggling.

Sera shouted her cheers in response, although Lara didn't miss her slurring. The alcohol had definitely gotten to her.

"I knew she was going to bring him to the house just to rub it in my face. No clue where I got the idea from but I grabbed a box, went down to the lake and grabbed as many frogs as I possibly could. I managed to bring them back in unnoticed and snuck into her room. I placed some of them in her bed when my brother Gabriel caught me. I thought he would have scolded me but he didn't. He didn't even ask me why I was doing this. He just laughed and shook his head. Then he helped me place the rest of them," Lara smiled warmly at the memory.

She glanced up at Dorian, who placed his hand over hers. He knew the turbulences her and Gabriel had faced, but he also knew how much he meant to her.

"I figured if I can't have him then neither can she. Fair is fair. About an hour later, I heard them in the house sneaking their way up to her room. He wasn't a potential suitor my parents had lined up for her so they would have been pissed but they were away at that time. It was quiet for a bit after they went into her room, and then…the loudest scream you could possibly imagine. I remained hidden as I watched him emerge from her room half-naked in disgust. Evangeline was still screaming, in tears, and frogs were hopping everywhere," Lara bit her lip, trying to hide her laughter.

"Oh, you are evil," Dorian chuckled heartily.

"I found out later through town gossip that he had found one of the frogs under her dress when he undressed her. I wish I knew which frog it was so I could have thanked them," Lara laughed.

She was met with laughter, much to her surprise. Even from Cassandra. It wasn't the reaction she was expecting but leave it to her to think the worst of herself. To think that they would find her mean or like her less. Instead, there was not a disapproval in sight.

"That was brilliant!" Sera laughed through her hiccups.

"Did she know it was you?" Cassandra asked, a smile on her face.

"Obviously. She's not an idiot but she couldn't say anything about what I did because it would mean she'd have to admit her part in bringing a non-suitor to her bed," Lara smirked.

"Victory!" Bull shouted.

"More like a checkmate. She got her revenge and trapped her," Blackwall laughed.

"See, that wasn't so bad. How old were you?" Varric encouraged her.

"Around fourteen," Lara answered.

Varric shook his head chuckling. Scanning the room, she was met with approving expressions. They found the story funny, but they also had an insight to her life they never had before. It was as if they discovered a secret. In a way, she was a secret. She was kept a secret her whole life. An unwanted secret. It was nice to finally be seen, to be wanted, even if it was an unsafe place to be in after the comfort of being alone for so long.

"I know that wasn't easy for you to share, but thank you. I feel like I know you a bit more," Cassandra spoke.

Lara smiled uncomfortably, not knowing how to respond.

"How about another round? I'm sure Lara would like the spotlight taken off her," Josephine asked.

"Yes, please!" Lara answered, placing more coins on the table.

Laughter and chatter erupted as everyone placed their bets while Josephine drew another round that she was most likely going to win.

—-

"Cullen, did I ever tell you what happened that time Lara and Dorian fell through the doors in Haven?" Bull cut through the silence.

Both Lara and Dorian put down their glasses, giving him a glare.

"Vishante Kaffas! A little discretion won't kill you. You should try it sometime," Dorian hissed.

"You know, I had nearly forgotten about that. What did happen?" Cullen chuckled.

"Nothing!" Lara and Dorian shouted in unison.

"I knew this night was going to be good," Varric chuckled.

"Shut it," Lara narrowed her eyes at him.

"These two were eye fucking your men from behind the doors. Don't worry, your girl was watching you the whole time while you were shirtless," Bull confirmed, winking at Cullen.

Lara avoided eye contact, but she could still feel Cullen's gaze on her, her mind already picturing his smirk that caused her to melt. The way his scar moved with his lips as he smirked. It was too distracting and not the distraction she needed from this conversation.

"I thought it would be fun to open the doors on them. They're both as closed up as each other and could do with letting loose sometimes," Bull laughed.

"That's your idea of letting loose?" Dorian exclaimed.

"Kind of backfired though. They both were really angry. I'm sure Solas heard all about it in the Fade after that," Bull continued laughing.

"I knew it," Cullen shook his head.

Now Lara looked up at him.

"You knew nothing!" She fought back.

"You don't deny it then?" Cullen cocked his head.

"A lady never kisses and tells," She replied.

"Precisely!" Josephine agreed.

"We'll see about that," Cullen smirked.

"This is an interesting side to our Commander. None that I wish to see any further though," Cassandra looked back and forth between Cullen and Lara.

"Speak for yourself, Seeker," Varric spoke up.

Lara inwardly groaned knowing Varric was quite satisfied in getting more information out of her relationship with Cullen. The others seemed quite satisfied as well which gave her the suspicion that they all knew about their attraction before they themselves knew how drawn they were to each other. Dorian let out a sigh next to her as he finished his glass. Lara joined in and emptied hers, relieved that the table resumed its chatter but she refused to look at a certain pair of honey coloured eyes that were set on her in triumph.

—-

"And the dealer takes all! I win again!" Josephine squeaked excitedly.

Groans and shuffling echoed throughout the tavern as Josephine dominated the game. Varric managed to squeeze one win out which gave everyone hope but that was soon squandered as Josephine regained control. Lara giggled as the wine took over her senses. She should be disappointed with the money she lost tonight but the atmosphere, the connections, the laughter, the stories all washed that away. She wouldn't trade this night for anything.

"Deal again. I've figured out your tells, Lady Ambassador," Cullen leaned forward, suddenly determined.

"Commander! Everyone knows a lady has no tells. Surely you should know that by now," Josephine responded.

"Then let's see if your good fortune lasts one more hand. I'm even willing to make a bet," Cullen smiled confidently.

"Easy there, Curly," Varric warned.

"A bet?" Josephine asked, her brow furrowed, deep in thought.

Lara's eyes darted between Josephine and Cullen. She already knew Cullen wasn't going to win so whatever bet she made, she hoped he wouldn't regret it. Her fingers fumbled with each other in anticipation as Josephine plotted.

"Your armor," Josephine finally answered with a wicked smile.

Lara's heart sank and she immediately sat upright in response. Dorian's hand found hers instantly, giving it a light squeeze. Dorian didn't know everything, but he knew what the armor meant to Cullen.

"My armor?" Cullen raised an eyebrow.

"Yes. If you lose, you take off the armor. We can all see what Lara was staring at through those doors," Josephine looked proud of herself.

Varric shook his head as Cullen signed himself up for a deal he wouldn't win. Lara ignored the laughs and whistles around the table and stared at Cullen, trying to read him. Would he panic? Would it trigger a flashback? They didn't know the horrors he faced. They didn't know why he kept his armor close to him. He was being asked to strip away his safety in front of everyone.

"And if I win?" Cullen crossed his arms over his chest.

"Then you get to decide what it is that you want," Josephine shrugged.

"I can't decide now?" Cullen asked.

"That would be unnecessary since you're not going to win," Josephine began to deal the cards on the table.

"You're on," Cullen let out a deep breath.

Nausea rolled through her as her heart sank in her stomach. She wanted to scream at him for being so careless. His eyes met hers, frowning as he read her expression. I'll be okay, he mouthed to her and gave her a reassuring nod. It did nothing to calm her nerves.

"Count me out of this round," Lara spoke before Josephine could deal her hand.

All she could focus on was Cullen. She didn't dare leave her eyes off of him in case he started to spiral. Perhaps it was the ales that gave him confidence, that allowed him to keep his demons stored away where he couldn't access them. She had hoped that was the case. As the round began, nausea overtook her even more at the thought of him going down that dark hole that she knew was too easily around the corner if he wasn't careful.

—-

Varric coughed as he tried to hold back his laughter. Cullen narrowed his eyes at him as he sat back down, completely shirtless. Lara tried not to get too distracted by the sight before her. The same sight that swept her heart off its feet in Haven. The same sight that brought her face to face with the realization of how deeply attracted she was to him, much to her annoyance. She kept her eyes focused on him, looking for any signs of distress.

"Don't say a word, dwarf," Cullen hissed.

Varric started laughing now, unable to hold back.

"I tried to warn you, Curly," Varric answered between laughs.

"Never bet against an Antivan, Commander," Josephine spoke proudly.

"It comes off. I didn't know it came off…" Cole spoke, shocked.

"Boss over there definitely knows it comes off," Bull spoke, chuckling.

A deep flush rose to her cheeks. Indeed she did know it came off. The sight of him taking it off for her always took her breath away. The fact that he could be so openly vulnerable conjured so many emotions in her that she was not equipped to handle.

"I'm leaving. I don't want to witness our Commander's walk of shame back to his office, nor anything further between him and our Inquisitor," Cassandra spoke.

"Well, I do!" Dorian piped up.

Lara kicked his leg under the table, glaring at him. He only chuckled at her outburst, enjoying teasing her while she was on edge with Cullen being so exposed.

"My door is open tonight," Bull spoke as some of the others stood to leave.

Dorian rolled his eyes, sighing. Now Lara laughed as she knew he was damn well going to Bull's room after that invitation. It was Dorian's turn to glare at her.

"At least we'll both be warm tonight," Dorian muttered to her so only she could hear.

"I love you two together," She confessed.

"And I love you with him," Dorian replied gently, smiling.

Without warning, she pulled him into a tight hug, the alcohol definitely hitting her. Dorian hugged her back all the same before swatting her away.

"Do not make me emotional. I detest it," He smoothed out his robes.

Lara smiled even wider at his comment. She would never find someone like Dorian and was so grateful to call him her best friend. Varric placed a hand on her shoulder, startling her from her thoughts. He nodded for her to come and talk to him. She looked back at Cullen who smiled, only it didn't reach his eyes. He was on edge.

"Go. I'm alright," He reassured her.

Reluctantly, she joined Varric by the fireplace.

"I'm glad you agreed to this. Sometimes it's too easy to mistake you for the Inquisitor," Varric spoke.

Lara sighed. "Sometimes I hate that the title has taken over me. I just want to be Lara, whoever she is these days."

"You definitely aren't the woman we stumbled upon at the Temple of Sacred Ashes," Varric chuckled.

"No, I'm not. More and more, I'm not quite sure what happened to her. So much has changed in so little time yet I never want this to end. I wish this place could be home forever," Lara confessed.

"You can't get rid of us that easily. Whatever this shit is, we're all in it together. To the end and even beyond. You up for another game when this is all over, Lucky?" Varric asked, hopeful.

"I wouldn't miss it for the world," Lara smiled.

"Good! It might take me a while to convince Curly to join us again. Maybe I'll work the revenge angle or maybe you can do the convincing for me," Varric winked at her.

Lara flushed bright red at his insinuation.

"Goodnight, Varric," Lara rolled her eyes.

"What about Sera?" Blackwall called out.

Sera was snoring underneath the table, blacked out. Lara couldn't help but laugh at the sight.

"Bring her over with me. I'll keep an eye on her tonight," Varric called out.

Blackwall reached under the table, grabbing Sera and carrying her in his arms as he followed Varric out of the tavern. Suddenly, silence welcomed Lara besides the crackling of the fire and the intense stare of Cullen's eyes on her.

"Your armor is still off," Lara commented.

He had made no move to put it back on, she noticed. His expression was unreadable and she secretly hoped his mind was still in the right place. Each time he went down that hole, she was terrified that one day she might not be able to bring him back.

"No need for it when I have you alone," He replied so surely.

A delicious shiver ran down her spine at his words, her body shifting as the meaning of his words settled into her. It was too easy how she responded to him. She let out a sigh, releasing the tension she didn't realize she was carrying. He was alright. The sound of the chair scraping the floor sent her out of her thoughts as he made his way over to her. Her gaze lingered on the way his muscles moved as he walked, the shadows the fire danced on his skin, the beauty of this man and his scarred torso that she hated was on display for everyone.

"Talk to me, Lara," He whispered as he approached her, cupping her chin.

"I was so scared…" She swallowed hard.

"Why?"

"What if your mind went back to the past? What if I couldn't bring you back? Your armor…it protects you. Not just physically," She bit her lip.

"You caught on to that, did you?" He sighed, resting his forehead on hers.

"It was bearable," He continued.

"The alcohol I'm guessing?" She asked, curious.

"No," He chuckled. "It was bearable because you were there. I knew you would keep me safe."

Safe and solid. Protecting and proud.

Cole's words had rushed back with a force in her mind. Her heart pounded loudly in her ears at his admission. At his unwavering trust in her. A mage. He put his safety in her hands and trusted her to protect him. And she would. No matter what, she would. She didn't deserve him but by the Maker she would fiercely protect him with her life. The events at the Temple of Mythal were proof enough of that. Her tortured ex-Templar. A man who had been so broken down, even by her own kind, yet still worshiped her at her feet. Still saw the best in her and put his trust in her. The significance of him stripping his armor for her was never lost on her.

"Always," She whispered, trying to fight back the tears at the memory of him in his own blood.

"You are the light to my darkness," He pressed a kiss to her forehead.

Her fingers gently traced the scars that ran along his torso. She would never get enough of traveling through the map of scars across his body. She wished she could heal his past with her fingers. He stiffened at her touch, holding his breath, but slowly relaxed the longer she traced.

"Can I know another one?" She asked.

"Not tonight," He answered, brushing a tendril of hair behind her ear.

She didn't push any further, knowing the reason. He was already too exposed tonight even if he did feel safe with her.

"You're a bit overdressed," Cullen continued, toying with the hem of her top.

"Here? In the tavern?" Lara's eyes widened in shock.

"Yes. We have it all to ourselves."

"Someone could walk in on us," Lara looked at the door.

"Good. Then they'll know that you're mine," He breathed.

He lightly nipped her ear, trailing his way down her neck leaving gentle bites in his path. Lara let out a sigh as she closed her eyes, tilting her head to the side giving him more access. The idea of someone walking in terrified her, but she made no sign of protest as he undressed her. As he left red marks on her skin with his teeth, claiming her.

As she stood in front of him naked, Cullen took a few steps back to admire her. To take her in. His honey hues now shone with lust, with desire. For her. She suddenly felt too warm in the cool wooden tavern, the fireplace beside her nearly becoming unbearable. She closed the distance between them and hooked her fingers around his belt, making her intention clear. He tensed, but nodded all the same, trusting her to undress him. Slowly, she undid his belt and trousers and lowered herself with them, discarding them with his boots.

He knelt down, cupping her face and staring into her eyes as he gently laid her down on the rug beside the fireplace. His lips continued his trail from her neck to her collarbones, to her breasts lavishing her nipples with attention. She arched her back in response, her fingers threading through his golden locks as he claimed the hard peak with his mouth. Cullen's finger slowly traced its way down to her core, finding her already wet for him. Lara felt him smile against her skin at his discovery but she didn't care. He knew by now how well her body responded to him.

Two calloused fingers entered her, eliciting a string of moans and a sway of her hips to meet him, pushing him in deeper. Cullen focused on her other breast while still fingering her slowly, curving his fingers ever so slightly, knowing where to hit. Lara's fingers tugged at his hair, her hips undulating to meet him at every thrust, to push him deeper. It was delicious torture. She needed him and needed him now.

"Please…Cullen…" She whimpered, unable to take it.

"What does my girl want?" Cullen asked, her nipple still receiving his attention.

Everything.

Everything and anything that involved the man above her, worshiping her body. Suddenly the emotions hit her. Every moment needed to last, she needed to preserve it in her memory in case she didn't make it. In case the Anchor took her. In case Corypheus destroyed her. In case she would never see him again. Her doom was approaching and it hung heavy on her the closer it lurked.

"Make love to me," She choked out.

Cullen raised his head to look at her, his fingers slowly sliding out of her. He cupped her face, his thumb stroking her cheek. The very action tugged at her heart and she swallowed hard as if to hold back her emotions. The feel of his tip at her entrance stumbled her out of her thoughts as her lips parted at the sensation.

"Lara, it is always love no matter how hard I take you," He replied.

He buried himself inside her causing her to cry out in pleasure, in love, in ecstasy at the length of him. As requested, his movements were slow as he thrust in and out of her. Whatever she requested, he always lay at her feet. First, she was lost in a frenzy of emotions and sensations, then her body was fused with his. Two hearts beating as one as they moved in unison. Her body responding to his movements, her meeting him at every turn. It was overwhelming, it was too much, but she needed this. She needed this memory of him and she was selfish enough to take it even if it meant she would no longer be alive in a matter of months.

Her fingers trailed up and down his back, memorizing every detail of his skin, of his body as he made love to her. He was guiding her to that edge, that same edge that he knew only too well how to bring her to. The very same one where she was somersaulted in a well of emotions for him she was not capable of handling but she dove into all the same. He would always keep her safe, keep her heart safe. This time, he was diving in with her, his own release at that very same edge. Together.

"Cullen!" She gasped as her fingers clung onto his back.

She shattered into a million pieces around him. Her name echoed in her ears as his own release crashed around her, filling her with his release. Lara gripped him through each wave that washed over her until she came down from that high. Their limbs remained intertwined as they held each other, neither one wanting to let the other go.

"I love you," She whispered, shutting her eyes.

"I have always loved you. And I always will," He whispered back, placing a kiss on her forehead.