Title : The Gift of Love
Rating: R
Prompt : #23 Lovers
Warnings : Adult situations.
Author's notes: that photo has a lot to answer for. Especially now it's a wallpaper.
Disclaimer: Malek is not mine. I just borrow and play with him. He belongs to MGM. Cept Jared, he's mine, all mine. :D As is Elise/Talia.
Summary : Malek and Elise finally realise they both feel the same about each other.
The Gift of Love
By Tels
The most precious possession that ever comes to a man in this world is a woman's heart.
Three weeks previously…
Another earthquake struck as the last few Tok'ra struggled from the tunnels via the rings. Malek dropped to his knees putting his hands up above his head as the roof caved in. He cried out, his senses slipping as a huge piece of crystal landed on top of him. He fell forwards, the rocks burying him as they fell. He found he couldn't move and he was being suffocated by the pile of rocks and debris that lay on him. One arm was pinned to one side of his body, the other under his face and his legs were somewhere he assumed. He couldn't feel them. <Jared?> he said worriedly.
<Here… I think… At least we got everyone off the base first.>
<Yes we did… fulfilled our duty to our people.>
<It hurts Mal… can't breathe…>
Malek checked Jared's body quickly, the realisation dawning on him. He closed his eyes. < I'm sorry… I can not free us and you are badly injured.>
Jared hugged Malek. <It's okay my friend… neither of us should have survived seventy years ago> he whispered, knowing that he was dying but strangely not afraid as he wasn't alone. <Don't prolong it Mal> he said. <I never wanted a long drawn out death. It's been an honour to carry you… my friend.>
Malek hugged his host tightly. <I love you> he whispered making Jared sleep as he prepared to release the poison that would kill them both. Just before he did so, he felt something touch his hand and grasp it. In his semi conscious state he wondered if it were a dream. Then he felt an increase in pain then air, cold air touching his arm. Then another tremor struck, far more violent than before and darkness descended again.
--- --- --- ---
Malek had spent the next week mainly unconscious on Earth in the infirmary at the SGC where they and the other Tok'ra had been evacuated to. Amazingly SG1 had gone back into the ruined base to find him and Jared. He didn't even remember the part he played in saving Earth from the same fate as his base. But as a thank you General O'Neill had worked with Jacob and Selmak to find them a new base.
Malek had wanted to do more to set it up but Elise insisted on him staying in the newly grown healing chambers until she was satisfied he was completely healed. Jared's body had been badly broken and crushed by the rocks that had fallen on him and by all rights he should have died. He also had numerous internal injuries and if he were honest still wasn't completely right when he wanted to leave.
Neither did they want to leave the moving into the new base solely to the others. Not that he didn't trust Jacob or Selmak to do it right or as he directed. It was just that this was his base and part of him was jealous if that was the correct way to term it that he wasn't in charge right now. Although he had to admit lying in bed having a beautiful woman at his beck and call did have its advantages.
He and Jared would lie there watching her work, or just sitting there. She'd be gentle in her treatment of them, aware that what she was doing was causing pain and wanting to make it as little as possible. She'd always smile no matter how tired she was.
Jared took it upon himself to try to get Elise's host Talia to come fore but she wouldn't. It didn't matter what he did, she wouldn't speak to him. So he made it a personal mission to succeed before he was much older.
Elise nursed her commanding officer slowly back to health. Both she and Talia had long liked him and the thought of losing him was more than they could stand. It just wasn't an option to let either Malek or Jared die.
Jacob watched as she worked. He had to insist on her taking a break every so often. She was still recovering from her own injuries and tended to put her own needs way on the bottom of the list. He also watched the way she looked at Malek and saw the way he looked at her and wondered how long it would take the two of them to realise it.
Finally after three weeks, Malek was well enough to leave the healing chambers and return to work. Part of him was disappointed. He'd enjoyed having Elise around all day, enjoyed the interaction, even if she did nag and cajole him into eating or sleeping or exercising when he really didn't want to. Enjoyed her company and the way she gave meaning to everything she did and if he were totally honest gave new meaning to his life too and a reason to be thankful that he had survived. Part of him was sorry he was losing that, but part of him was glad to pick up the reins again and get back to work.
--- --- --- ---
The massage had been Jared's idea. He had made the first move and the request. Admittedly Elise may well have made it an order had he left it much longer. She was the only person who could order them to do something, apart from the council, but he didn't want that. Plus he just plain wanted to see her again. So he'd approached her and asked if she would mind. After all he reminded her, she had offered. And blushed wonderfully at the same time he seemed to remember. He was pleased to note she blushed again, especially when he suggested the pool.
They had walked there together, his two bodyguards exactly two feet behind him. His hand had hung next to hers and he wanted to take it but he hadn't. Not wanting to rush things. He'd undressed and entered the pool first, turning his back to give her privacy to change. He settled down on the ledge leaning on the side of the pool, waiting for her to join him.
Elise slowly undressed. She could feel the unease from her host. <It's okay; he's not going to jump on us. We've bathed with the others hundreds of times… this is no different...>
<It's very different… it's just us…> Talia answered.
<It will be okay… it's just a massage.> She kept her eyes on Jared as she slowly got into the pool and moved over to him. She took a deep breath and ran a slow hand over his neck. “You're tense,” she said.
Jared nodded. “Yes, I am.” He raised a hand and placed it over hers for a moment looking at her. “It's been a long few weeks,” he told her. “And this is just us. What happens here stays here, between us.”
Elise looked at him intently for a moment and nodded. “Okay. Get comfortable.” She watched as he turned back and leaned against the edge of the pool. Then she slowly started working her hands over his neck and upper back.
Malek woke to find his head resting on his folded arms. The warm water lapped against him, while soft hands on his back and neck eased his tired and knotted muscles. They were talented hands, the touch sending ripples of pleasure through both him and Jared. <Okay you were right> he said. <We did need this.>
<Mmmmm… told you so> Jared replied. <And she's good.>
Malek sighed in pleasure and moved slightly giving the hands better access. He had woken to fingers working over Jared's neck and then those same fingers had worked their magic on him sufficiently to bring him fore. He moved again, the touch on his upper body becoming more sensual now, arousing rather than relaxing.
Jared smiled to himself. He'd known for a while she was attracted to them and the feeling was mutual, despite Malek trying to pretend it wasn't. Somehow their position on the base always got in the way. They had to be detached but it was hard, especially where Elise was concerned.
Malek opened his eyes and looked across the room. He knew his guards were right outside the doorway and that had never bothered him until now, as for the first time he wished they were not. The hands moved slowly down his back, filling him with sensations he hadn't felt in far too long.
Moving slowly, he turned round and looked at her. He ran a hand gently down her face, not losing the eye contact. “You are beautiful,” he said. He ran his thumb gently across her lips, noticing the way she shivered as he touched her.
Elise swallowed nervously. <Maybe> she whispered to her host. <Maybe he does like us too…> She tried to contain the blush that spread over her cheeks and the way her knees suddenly weakened and her legs didn't want to hold her up anymore.
Malek lowered his face and gently brushed his lips against hers, his hands circling her back.
Elise closed her eyes as he kissed her, not sure how to respond or what to do. She parted her lips slightly and Malek deepened the kiss, holding her close, his hands gently caressing her back and neck. “Turn around,” he said breaking off finally for air.
She looked questioningly at him but did what he asked.
“Lean over the edge,” he told her moving his hand slowly over her neck. “Let me do to you what you did for me.”
Elise nodded and settled down in the water sighing contentedly. She closed her eyes as Malek's hands started massaging her neck.
“And you complained about my neck muscles,” Jared said softly. “Physician heal thyself! How do you have room to move in here?”
She shrugged. “She is tense right now. The stress of the past few weeks… seeing you get so hurt, moving bases, setting up over again.”
Jared nodded. “Yeah… Is it just that?”
Elise shook her head. “I think it has more to do with where we are right now.”
Jared's hands paused ever so slightly. “If she is uncomfortable then perhaps I should stop.”
Elise looked at him. “It's not that and its not you. It's just…” she flicked her eyes to the doorway. “We're not alone.” She paused. “We'll never be alone.”
Jared put a hand on her face. “There are very good reasons for that. Let me talk to Talia.”
“She won't,” Elise said looking down.
Jared looked at her. He kissed her gently. “Then we stop,” he said. He could feel Malek's disappointment echoing his but he understood why.
Elise nodded slowly, just as disappointed. “Okay.”
Jared pulled himself up out of the pool, the water running down his lithe form and pooling on the floor by his feet. He grabbed a towel and started drying himself off.
Elise watched him. <They want us and you refuse?> she whispered to her host.
<You know why… we are not alone. I can't do this with armed guards' right outside the door. I'm sorry…>
Elise sighed and turned round leaning back in the water.
Jared finished dressing and looked at her. “Join us for dinner tonight?” he asked.
Elise nodded, privately convinced he was simply being polite now. “That would be good.”
Jared nodded and left the room. He walked slowly down the tunnels wondering if he had just blown any chance of a relationship with Elise out of the water. Literally. He felt the guards fall in behind him. <I can understand where Talia is coming from Mal> he said slowly as Malek came fore. <Can't say I was that comfortable with them right outside the door.>
Malek nodded. <But like you said they are there for a reason.>
<Yeah… it's just I really like her you know, more than like her and I know you like her. And they like us…>
<Yeah…> Malek paused. <To be honest I more than like her…>
Jared playfully hit him. <Yay at last! I was beginning to fall for the Mr Ice Man image myself.>
Malek poked his tongue out at Jared. <Well one of us has to keep it up. And now I have a headache.>
<Bad choice of phrase Mal…> Jared laughed. <Awww poor Mal got a headache? Go see Elise and get her to kiss it better then.>
Malek huffed. <Bad choice of words… don't think so… how about a cold shower instead?>
<Ack! Just deal with it okay?> Jared said. Then he paused. <Maybe we go about this differently, lose the body guards for an hour or two?> Jared paused. <How about a little thievery, skulduggery and sheer wickedness?>
Malek all but laughed out loud. <What are you planning?> he asked.
Jared laughed. <We need a few tunnel crystals, some flowers, chocolates, wine and food. And not that rubbish from the eating commons either.>
Reaching their office Malek sat at the desk and let Jared fore to write a long list of what they needed. Then he summoned Aldwin to go and procure them.
Aldwin read down the list with a puzzled look on his face. “You want what?” he asked.
Jared sighed and came fore. “According to Jacob the best way to apologise to someone is with flowers and chocolates,” he said. “That is what I am doing.”
Aldwin smiled. “Then I will assist as best I can.” He left the office, wondering why Jared needed to apologise to Jacob and what difference flowers would make.
Malek watched him go. <That's gonna start a few rumours Jarrie> he said.
<Yup…especially when Aldwin delivers them to Jacob's quarters.> He grinned wickedly . <Now we need to steal the tunnel crystals and build a new chamber.>
<Where?>
<Right under the floor of our quarters. I thought a tunnel and a chamber. The guards can watch the door as normal while we…>
<My you're a sneaky one> Malek said getting up. <But I like the way you think.>
--- --- --- --- ---
Nine hours later Malek was ready. He let Aldwin know that he was most decidedly off duty and no matter what happened he was not to be disturbed. Even if the Goa'uld attacked the base he didn't want to know. He was going to dinner and then bed and that was it. He left his office and headed first to his quarters to change. Then he went to the healing chambers. He wasn't surprised to find Elise still working.
He noticed the flowers sat in the vase on her desk and the opened box of confectionary. He wondered briefly what Jacob had made of the ones Aldwin had delivered to him at Jared's insistence. He moved over to where the object of his attention was sitting at her desk. “Are you busy?” he asked.
Elise looked up, surprised to see Malek there out of uniform. She ran her eyes up and down his figure, taking in the black pants, black shirt he'd left partly unbuttoned, and if she wasn't mistaken he was wearing some kind of cologne. “I was going to catch up with my paperwork.”
“That can wait,” he told her.
Elise looked at him. “I thought you would want it on your desk in the morning,” she said.
<Would rather have her on my desk in the morning> the same thought crossing both Malek and Jared's mind.
Elise continued, “I let you both down earlier and I thought if I caught up on my work then…”
Malek shut her up suddenly by taking her hand. “You work too hard. You need to take your own advice and go and eat,” he told her. He took the pad away and pulled her to her feet. “I also need your help.”
Elsie nodded and glanced at the door. She felt Talia shudder as the guards were standing there. Her hand felt bereft suddenly as Malek let go of it. “How can I help you?” she asked as they headed into the tunnel.
Malek looked at her. “I think I may have torn something in my back,” he said.
“Then we should go back to the healing chamber,” she said stopping.
Malek shook his head. “I have my reputation to consider,” he said. “Besides its too cold in there to keep taking my shirt off. My chamber will suffice.”
Elise nodded. “Before or after I eat?”
“Now,” he said. They reached the door of his chamber. He looked at the guards. “No one in or out no matter what,” he ordered and led Elise into the room.
She glanced round. It seemed bigger than she remembered but she wasn't really all that familiar with it. Not as much as she'd like anyway. Both she and Talia had long liked Malek but knew it was one sided. Then this morning she'd thought for a moment that he felt the same way. Talia had frozen and Malek and Jared had left. Fortunately before they had both actually cried.
Now she didn't know what to think. She had guessed the flowers were from him and the chocolate as well. She had never had chocolate before and although rather sweet was decidedly pleasant and one piece had led to another. She didn't know what she had done to deserve the gifts when all she had done was hurt him. “Thank you for the gifts,” she said looking at him. “The flowers are beautiful… I have never seen those before.”
Malek smiled. “They are called freesias,” he said. “They are soft and delicate and beautiful… like you.”
Elise blushed and looked down. “And I never had chocolate before either,” she said.
Malek raised her head to look at him. “Sweet like you,” he said. “And that was Jared; chocolate is something he finds irresistible.”
Elise smiled. “I can see why…” She paused and changed the subject. “Would you like me to look at your back?”
Malek nodded and looked over to the door. Then he moved over to the far corner of the room and beckoned to her. He hit a button under the cabinet and the sound of voices talking filled the room.
Elsie looked at him, recognising it as the report she'd given him several days previously. “What?” she began.
Malek put a finger to his lips and pulled aside the curtain, indicating for her to follow.
She wondered where they were going but he gave an order and she followed without question.
He led her down the steep tunnel into a big chamber. He watched as she stood there in silence taking in what was there. The chamber was lit by candles. In the corner was a table was laid for two with dinner all ready. A pool was in the centre of the room and in the far corner a series of screens portioned off the remainder of the chamber.
Elise looked at him. “I don't understand,” she said.
Malek looked at her and gently raised a hand to her hair, pulling out the hair band. He ran his hands through her hair as it fell onto her shoulders. “Elise,” he said gently, his voice husky with emotion. “This way we are alone while they guard the door to my chamber from the main tunnel. No one knows this is here.”
Elise smiled. “She still may not come fore…”
Malek nodded. “That's okay… when she is ready. Jared really only comes fore around you and Jacob.”
Elise blushed. “Then I am honoured… Is your back very bad?”
“Eat first,” he said looking at her. He led her over to the table and pulled out a chair. “I did some research and hope I got it right.”
Elise looked at her plate and smiled. “Yes you did. This is my favourite.”
Malek smiled. “Good.” He pushed her chair in and sat to the side of her. He watched her as they began to eat, making small talk to make her feel more comfortable. She was just picking at her food, eating it but getting no enjoyment out of it, and he wondered if he'd done something to make her feel uneasy. Then he reached over and dipped a piece of the meat into the sauce. “You should try this,” he said offering it to her.
Elise went to take it but he moved his hand away.
“Open,” he told her.
Not taking her eyes off his, she opened her mouth slightly and took a tiny bite.
Malek let her take a small bite of the meat then popped the rest in his mouth.
Elsie swallowed it and smiled at him.
“What do you think?” he asked.
“Nice,” she said watching him.
He picked up another piece then touched the meat to her lips letting the sauce spread over them.
She automatically opened her mouth to lick her lips before the juice dripped onto her shirt.
Malek smiled at her and slid the piece of meat into her mouth.
As Elise ate he reached behind him and picked up the other box he'd asked for. Jacob had introduced him to this and he was sure Elise would like it as much as he did. He glanced at her. “Close your eyes,” he said.
She did so and Malek moved his chair closer to her. He took a piece of Turkish delight from the box and brushed it against her lips. The icing sugar fell over his fingers and her shirt. Her tongue darted out to lick the sugar from her lips and then she took a small bite. “What is it?”
Malek smiled his finger slowly wiping the rest of the sugar from her lips. “Turkish delight,” he told her. “A personal favourite of mine.” He offered the rest of the piece and smiled as she ate it, his fingers brushing against her lips.
Elise looked down at the box and picked up a piece, offering it to Malek. The sugar fell down his shirt as he bit into it, his lips taking in the tips of her fingers as his did so. She looked in horror at the mess she'd made of his shirt and tried to brush it off with the edge of her hand, which just made it worse.
Malek looked at her and smiled. He offered her another piece watching as the sugar fell everywhere. He raised a hand and slowly brushed the sugar off her shirt. “You like it?” he asked.
She nodded picking up another piece. She offered it to him and he took it catching hold of her hand as he did so. He ate the sweet then licked the sugar off her fingers, not taking his eyes off hers.
When the box was finally empty he stood up and made his way over to the pool. He looked at her and held out a hand. “Join me?” he asked.
Elise hesitated. “I…”
Malek nodded. He turned his back, removing his shirt slowly. It had to be her choice.
Elise suddenly burst out laughing.
Malek turned to face her. “What?” he asked wondering what he had done.
Elise got up and moved over to him, reaching behind him and pulling a piece of paper off his back.
Malek reached for it but she held it out of his reach. “What does it say?” he demanded.
Elsie couldn't speak for laughing for a moment but finally managed to gasp “Ignore his Mr Ice Man bit… he adores you really. Jared.”
Malek shook his head. <Jared!>
<Well… you weren't gonna tell her!> Jared retorted.
Malek huffed. <You have been spending too much time round Jack O'Neill!!>
Jared came fore. He looked at Elise. “Think I upset him.”
Elise looked at him and shook her head. “Then you're a bad boy,” she said.
Jared grinned. “Cool! So what's my punishment then?”
Elise shook her head. “An early bath,” she said. “I would push you into the pool… Only I don't think Malek quite planned it that way.”
Jared shook his head. “No… flowers, wine, chocolates… he wanted to do this properly. To make up for upsetting you the way we did this morning.”
Elise looked at him. “You didn't upset us.”
Jared looked at her. “We went too far, too fast. We scared you and for that we apologise.”
“Jared there is no need. If anyone is to blame it is us for not responding the way you wanted. I… we failed you.”
He cupped her face in his hand. “No… you didn't fail us, neither of you did. We don't want to pressure you into doing anything you don't want.”
Elise looked at him, her hand lying on top of his. “I… we…”
He shook his head. “No need to say anything,” he said softly. “Now I fancy bathing in my new pool. Fancy joining me? No pressure… just friends relaxing after a hard day at work.”
Elise smiled. “We'd like that.”
Jared nodded, turned his back on her again and finished undressing. He slid into the water and let Malek fore. Malek closed his eyes wondering where to go from here. He wouldn't be surprised if she walked out or froze again after Jared's note.
Elise stood watching him for a moment then she undid her tunic. The water did look inviting and if nothing else she was alone with them without the guards.
Malek heard the gentle splash as she got in the water and immersed herself totally.
Elsie surfaced beside him. “Turn round and let me look at your back,” she said.
It was Malek's turn to blush. “There's nothing wrong with it,” he admitted. “I wanted to see you again and figured that was the best way to get to see you.”
She shook her head. “There was another way,” she said quietly.
Malek looked at her. “Oh?”
Elise looked at him. “Can I take you to dinner would work. As would… can I take you for a walk on the surface? Or…”
Malek looked down. “I…” he began.
Elise moved closer and put a hand on his neck. “It's alright,” she said moving her hand slowly.
Jared shook his head and came fore. “The Ice Man cometh,” he misquoted. He looked at Elise. “He doesn't want to take advantage of either of you,” he said. “To be seen to abuse his powers. He's scared people will talk.”
<Am not!> Malek said.
<Are too… and it doesn't half dampen things!> Jared replied.
Elise looked at him. “Let them talk. Neither of you are making us do anything we don't want to. You've gone to so much trouble tonight… and if we're being honest… we're rather fond of you too.”
Jared smiled. “I hoped that was the case.” He paused. “Look neither of us wants to put you or Talia under any pressure here.” He leaned back against the side of the pool and closed his eyes.
Elise looked at him and then sat next to him, letting the jets move the water around her neck. “So what now?” she asked.
“Now we sit and do nothing,” Jared said. “Can't remember the last time I did that.”
“Then you need to do it more often,” Elise told him. She looked down. “This morning I… I thought maybe you expected…”
Jared opened his eyes and looked at her. “Yes we like… are very fond of you,” he said gently taking her hand. “And I think you know that and how much we want you but… there is no pressure here. I promise if something happens it'll be with the four of us… Talia included.”
Elise looked at him. “That might be a while… she doesn't come fore… won't talk to me much…”
Jared looked at her intently. “Then she doesn't know what she's missing,” he said. “And I don't think even Talia can resist my charm forever.”
Elise smiled slightly. “I don't know… but it's not fair if…”
Jared shook his head. “All or none,” he said. “Sides we asked you to dinner didn't we?”
She nodded.
Jared ran a hand down her face. “So how about dinner tomorrow night?”
Elise looked at him. “Well in my professional opinion you've been working too hard… You're still not fully recovered and setting up the new base has taken a lot out of you.”
Malek looked at her. “So what would you suggest?” he asked.
“A day off,” she said. “Take time for yourself… rest, relax, do nothing.”
Malek smiled. “And what about you?” he asked. “You were injured too I seem to recall. Three broken ribs, concussion… and you kept working despite that. It's my opinion as your commanding officer that you need to take some time for yourself… rest, relax, do nothing.”
Elise looked at him. “Really?” she said noting he'd used her words back at her.
Malek nodded. “Yes… perhaps…” he broke off, not wanting to appear forward at all. “Perhaps we could spend some time together tomorrow… doing nothing. Go for a walk on the surface perhaps?”
Elise smiled. “I'd like that… thank you.”
An hour later, Malek escorted Elise back to her chamber. He took her hand at the door and raised it to his lips. “Goodnight,” he said.
She looked at him. “Night.”
--- --- --- --
The following morning Malek sat in his office surrounded by paperwork. There was a knock on the door. “Come in,” he said not looking up. Footsteps crossed the room and stopped by his desk. Still he didn't look up. “What can I do for you?” he asked.
Jacob cleared his throat. “For a start you can put that down for a moment.”
Malek obediently put the report down and looked up. “Jacob…”
“I wanted to thank you for the flowers. Selmak couldn't remember the last time she got sent any.”
Malek smiled sheepishly. “That was Jared.”
Jacob grinned and sat down opposite Malek. “We figured. So what gives?”
Malek did his best to look innocent. “What do you mean?”
“Don't give me that innocent look,” Jacob said. “Elise made it quite clear at breakfast you were taking the day off for medical reasons… yet here you are buried in paperwork as usual.”
Malek sighed. “Did she take the day off like she was ordered to?”
Jacob laughed. “Malek she kept working with broken ribs and concussion. She can no more take the day off than you can.” He paused. “Is there something going on I should know about?” He noticed the way the colour touched Malek's cheeks and smiled slightly. “Well?”
Malek looked down and pulled at one fingernail. “I like her,” he said quietly.
Jacob smiled. “And she likes you. So…”
“So… what?” Malek asked.
Jacob looked at him. “Malek be honest with me here. Have you fallen for her simply because she spent the last three weeks saving your life?”
Malek looked at him. “Jacob your daughter saved my life by going back into the base for me. She and her team risked their lives to dig me out. Maybe I should date them too.” He paused. “I like Elise and Talia… We both do… A lot. I know the difference between love and…” he broke off his face colouring. <Damn did I just say that?>
Jared nodded. <Ummm yeah… oops!>
Jacob looked at him. “It's alright,” he said. “Base commanders have feelings too. So what are you going to do?”
“I invited her to dinner last night,” Malek said defensively. “She's just not ready for a full on relationship. Not sure that I am to be honest. Jared even managed to get us a fair way from the guards but…” He paused again.
Jacob looked at him. “Malek she likes you, you like her… who says you have to have a full on relationship?”
Malek sighed. “Jacob I'm her commanding officer… I can't just jump into bed with her and expect things to carry on as normal. Besides that would be classed as using her. I don't want that… don't want to tarnish her reputation for a quick…if all I wanted to do is bed someone there have been more than a few offers since Tremaine died!” He looked down. “I love Elise… she's worth far more than that.”
Selmak pushed her way fore. “Oh ppfft!” she said. “There is more to life and love than dragging a woman into bed with you!” she told him. “Just because that's all Anise and Delek are capable of doing with every single person they meet, doesn't mean the rest of us think like that.”
Malek looked at her. “I don't see you and Jacob out there with someone.”
Jacob rolled his eyes. “That's because it's Anise who keeps on and on at us… would you seriously wanna go sleep with her?”
Malek laughed. “No… mind you she's tried and failed with me too.” He paused. “Jacob… it's just been a long time… 40 years…”
Jacob nodded. “I know… it's been over 20 for me. But that doesn't mean you can't take the chance now that you have it. What you need is some quality time alone.”
Malek shook his head. “And that won't happen,” he said slowly looking towards the door. “Even with the new chamber we grew… they know who's in there with me and that just… makes things difficult. Doesn't matter where I go or what I do they're there. And I know there is a good reason for that.” He sighed. “Tremaine used to hate it… we'd escape every once in a while. Steal a cargo ship, give the guards the slip and just go find somewhere with hot springs . Picnic on the sand and make love in the moonlight.”
Jacob pressed his hands together and looked over them at Malek. “Then maybe you should do that again now.”
Malek looked at him. “And if she isn't ready for a …”
Jacob just looked at him. “Malek… take it slow… romance the woman… both of them. And if it happens all well and good. If not then it still might, eventually.”
“I just don't want to mess this up…”
Jacob smiled. “Malek she likes you as you are faults and all. She wouldn't care if you lost your job and got posted to an outpost on Netu, she'd still like you. Right now she's in the healing chambers… go pack up some food. Make sure its something halfway decent and some wine. Then meet me in the ring room in an hour.”
Malek looked at him. “And go where?” he asked.
Jacob looked at him. “Anywhere you want,” he said. “I'll have a ship in orbit. Just you and Elise… leave the guards and the base to me and Selmak.”
Malek smiled. “Thank you my friend.”
Jacob nodded and rose to his feet. “Any time.”
Malek watched him leave and then looked at the pile of reports on his desk. He picked up the one he'd been reading.
Jared sighed. <Malek! Work or a day out with someone we like and who likes us?>
Malek thought about teasing him for a moment and then nodded slowly. <No contest> he replied putting down the report and leaving the office.
--- --- --- ---
Elise looked up as Jacob came into the healing chamber. She tried not to laugh as Talia rolled her eyes. “Can I help you Jacob?” she asked.
Jacob nodded. “Yeah… I need you in the ring room.”
She got to her feet. “What's wrong?” She looked over at the other medic about to call for backup.
Jacob grabbed her arm. “Nothing's wrong… and I just need you .”
Elise looked at him curiously. “Oh?”
Selmak smiled. “I thought you were meant to be taking the day off?” she said.
“Well Malek did say I should do but…”
“Then do so… there is nothing here that the others can't handle. And besides I happen to know Malek is going to be there.”
Elise looked at him. “And?” she said innocently.
Selmak looked at her. “And I happen to know he likes you very much and wants to see you there,” she said. She noticed the way Elise blushed and smiled. “And I think you like him too… am I wrong?”
Elise shook her head. “I lov… like him very much,” she corrected. “But he is commander here… I …”
Jacob looked at her. “Love is a gift,” he said gently. “Just accept it. He likes you, a lot. It's obvious the way he looks at you.”
She smiled slightly. “Is it?”
Jacob nodded. “Yeah it is. So what are you waiting for?”
Elise got up and looked down at herself. “I look a state,” she said.
Jacob smiled at her. “You got an hour before he's gonna be there,” she said.
--- --- --- ---
Malek sat at the controls of the cargo ship and prepared for take off. He had laughed at the sight of Selmak in full voice telling the guards precisely why they couldn't come into the ring room, before he and Elise had ringed to the ship waiting in orbit for them. He glanced at her. “Ready?” he asked.
Elise nodded. “Yeah.”
He smiled and left orbit heading towards Kendarra.
--- --- --- ---
They walked slowly along the mountain path from where Malek had landed the ship, talking and laughing. Jared tried hard to get Talia to appear, teasing Elise gently and hoping to charm Talia fore.
Elise laughed at his attempts, knowing how much Talia wanted to come fore now but was simply playing with them but not doing so. They were both so very much in love with this man, both symbiote and host. Being with him like this just so right. She felt Malek's hand brush against hers again and took it firmly in hers.
Malek looked at her and smiled, continuing to walk with her. He hadn't felt like this about anyone in a long time and didn't want the feeling to go. After half an hours walk they reached his destination. Elise had to admit the setting was perfect. The valley was high enough up to afford fantastic views but secluded enough to afford complete privacy. The steam rose off the hot springs and the sunlight reflected off the surface of the water in a way that just invited one to swim in.
Malek laid the basket on the ground and pulled her towards him, holding her hand firmly.
Elise looked at him, gazing deeply into his eyes, noticing the way the light filled them and wondering if the love she saw in them was just for her and Talia.
Malek lost himself in the beauty of her eyes and inclining his head towards her, gently brushed his lips against hers. He pulled her closer to him, his free hand running over her back and neck as he kissed her.
Elise wrapped her free arm around Malek pulling him closer to her kissing him back.
Breaking finally for air he looked at her. “Hey beautiful,” he said quietly. “Come here often?”
She shook her head. “First time,” she said.
“Ah… so what do you think?”
“About the view or the company?” Colour touched her cheeks as she spoke.
Jared smiled. “Both,” he said. “I could do this all day,” he whispered into her hair. He took in her scent and pulled her in for another kiss.
Elise held him tightly, stars dancing round her as he poured all his feelings into the kiss. She was aware of so much, his taste, his scent, the way he moved and the touch of his hands on her body. She could feel Talia's response echoing hers.
For a while nothing mattered as the two of them just stood lost in each others arms and the feeling they had for each other. Finally Malek pulled back slightly and looked at her. He cupped a hand round her face and looked into her eyes. “I love you,” he said gently. “That is … we love you… the both of you…” He broke off. “I'm making a hash of this now.”
“No you're not,” Elise answered. She laid a hand on top of his. “We love you both too… we have for a long time.” She put a hand on the back of his neck and reaching up brushed her lips over his. Again time seemingly stood still as they stood under the sunlight kissing and just being with each other.
Elise ignored her host's soft laughter as Malek laid out the blanket and then opened the picnic basket. His staid base commander image was so far away now. All she could see was a man, one who loved her, loved them. And who would do anything for them.
Malek glanced up at her and noticed her smiling at him. He smiled back then held out a hand for her to join them on the blanket.
Elise took his hand and sat next to him, noticing his arm going behind her, almost touching but not quite.
Malek slowly fed her the pieces of meat and fruit, allowing her to do the same to him. He ran a finger over her lips to catch the juices, occasionally her tongue would dart out first and he'd laugh as she got his fingers.
Then he accidentally on purpose managed to get icing sugar on her shirt and his fingers lingered as they brushed it off her.
After dinner she smiled at him and then looked at the water. “It does look inviting,” she said putting her empty glass down.
He nodded. “It does.” He helped her to her feet and led her to the water's edge. Slowly he undid his shirt and laid it neatly to one side.
She watched as he undressed, not a hint of embarrassment on him as he shed his clothes and then stepped into the water.
He turned to face her and held out a hand ignoring Jared's request to pull her in.
She smiled at him and turning slightly undressed and then moved into the water. She gasped slightly. “It's really warm.”
Jared laughed slightly. “That'd be why it's called a hot spring,” he said. He noticed a change come over Elise and looked at her worriedly. “You okay?” he asked.
She nodded. “We're fine,” she answered.
Jared smiled. “Talia,” he said. “It's about time… told her you couldn't resist my charm forever.”
Talia looked at him. “And why is that?” she asked.
Jared tilted his head slightly. “Because of my good looks and sense of humour and charm and …” he broke off as he got a face full of water. “What was that for?” he spluttered.
“Nothing,” she answered.
He splashed her back and laughed as she cried out and tried to move away. He moved after her, aware of Malek's stunned reaction turning to a laugh within him.
Talia tossed water back at him hoping to get him as wet as he made her.
Jared dived under the water and swan around behind her.
Talia laughed and looked round for him. “Coward,” she teased. She jumped as strong arms suddenly surrounded her and Malek's voice whispered in her ear. “Who are you calling a coward?”
She turned round and looked at him. “You… well Jared actually.”
Malek smiled. “And why's that?” he asked wondering if she'd splash him too.
<Go for it> Elise told her.
Talia bit her lip and then threw a handful of water at Malek. “Because he could dish this out but not take it.”
Malek shook his head. “And can you?” he asked tossing a handful of water back at her.
Talia poked her tongue out at him.
He looked shocked. “Excuse me??” he managed.
Talia looked at him. “I can stop,” she whispered, wondering if she'd overstepped the mark.
He shook his head. “No,” he said. “It's nice to see you… I assume this is the real you… you're not putting on an act for my benefit.”
She blushed. “I hide behind Elise because I am not totally comfortable with… with life on the base. The lack of privacy for one thing.”
Malek nodded. “Same with Jared. Today is the most relaxed he has been for a long time. Aside from being with you and Elise that is.”
Elise came fore. “Hmmm is that why you two are always winding up in the healing chambers without your shirt on wanting us to look at your back?”
It was Malek's turn to blush.
Elsie smiled and moved behind him running her hands down his back. “And such a nice back it is,” she murmured.
One hand settled on his hip, the other circling his stomach. Her fingertips brushed against his skin, softly tracing the outline of his navel before dipping slightly lower. His breathing hitched slightly and her hand changed direction moving up over his waist to his chest. She moved closer to him, her breath hot on his neck and her soft lips caressing his ear.
He moved slightly making sure that Jared experienced it as much as he did. “That's nice,” he whispered.
“It's meant to be,” she replied.
He could feel her lips work their way down his neck, her soft body, as naked as his was, pressed up against him. He laughed as he turned round. “Are you after something?” he asked gently, his hands moving to hold her against him.
Elise giggled as he tickled her. “I might be.”
His hands moved slowly against her waist, teasing her as she had him, his fingertips brushing against parts of her he longed to touch properly, but not yet. Malek smiled as she moved against him, trying to get him to touch her again, the soft sounds escaping her lips affecting him more than he'd expected. He ran his fingers gently against her waist, sliding a hand down to her hips. He bent his head to her neck, playing his lips over her neck and ear.
Elise's eyes closed as his lips ran up and down her neck. She'd thought the water was warm, but compared to his touch, his breath, it was like ice. She gasped as his tongue caught her ear, her body arching against his touch. She'd never realised how sensitive they were. She had never done this before, ever, never even wanted to take a mate or a lover.
Malek smiled noticing her reaction. He wondered if his arousal was obvious to her or whether he was scaring her slightly. He knew he would be her first and was determined to go as slowly as she wanted or needed. This had to be something she'd remember and want again. He could feel her heart race beneath his hands and her breath picked up slightly as he kissed and nipped first one ear and then the other. “Are you trying to seduce your commanding officer?” he breathed making her shiver.
Elise opened her eyes. “I might be,” she whispered. “Is he objecting?” The water from his hair dripped onto her neck, the coolness of it after the heat of his mouth making her shudder.
Malek ran a hand down her arm, intentionally brushing against her ample figure, making her gasp and bringing her out in goose bumps. “No he's not objecting,” he replied pleased with the way she seemed to be enjoying his touch. He wanted to please her, to show her just how he felt about her.
Elise looked at him and pulled his hand to encourage him closer. She wanted his touch, wanted his strong arms around her, clasping her close to him, wanted to lean her head against his chest and feel his heart beat within him. Who would have thought that his uniform hid a body as muscular and perfectly formed as his?
Malek looked at her, her skin as soft as silk and yet as delicate as a flower's petals. She was touching him in a way no one had since his wife had died 40 years before. Neither he nor Jared had even wanted another woman since. Yet his body was responding to Elise in a way he never thought he would react again. His heart pounded within him, his breath speeding up to match hers.
<What are you waiting for?> Jared asked him. <Kiss her, touch her properly.>
Malek paused. <It's been a long time…I…>
Jared rolled his eyes. <Don't tell me you've forgotten what to do>
<No… I just don't want to frighten her… it's her first time.>
Jared nodded. <Then we go slow and seduce her… just don't keep her all to yourself.>
Malek nodded and gently pulled Elise close to him. Nestling her up against his body he slid one hand down to the small of her back and the other around her neck. He looked deeply into her eyes and then brushed his lips gently over hers. He paused looking at her, silently asking permission to continue.
In answer Elise slid her hands behind his back to match the exact positioning of his hands on her body. “Malek,” she breathed not moving her gaze from his.
He kissed her again, at first softly, then deeper and more fully, his hands playing over her skilfully like a violin. After a while he broke off and looked at her. “We love you so much” he whispered.
“ And we love you both too,” Elise put a hand on the back of his neck caressing Malek and kissed him, showing him just how much she loved them.
Malek kissed her back, holding her close, pouring all the feelings he had for her into the kiss. After a while he broke off and looked at her.
She looked back at him and nodded. Then she wrapped her arms round him and let him carry her from the water over to the blanket.
Malek laid her down and pushed her hair back out of her eyes. “You sure?” he asked her. “We love you but don't want you to do anything you don't want to.”
She nodded. “We both are,” she said. “But we've never…” she coloured slightly. “We don't know what to do…”
Malek smiled. “It's okay… just do what feels right,” he said softly. “And relax…” He leaned down and kissed her gently, letting his hand move over her neck.
She gasped slightly as everything she was feeling was suddenly enhanced. She moved her hand over his neck, wanting to do for him what he was doing for her.
Malek smiled and started working his way down her body, kissing and touching her, his main intent being to give her as much pleasure as he could do.
Elise kept her eyes on his face as his lips and fingers brought her more pleasure than she thought was possible. Her body seemed coiled somehow, as if it was building towards something but she didn't know what and didn't know how to control or stop it.
Malek returned his lips to hers, not wanting to overwhelm her too soon. He took her hand and encouraged her to touch him, showing her what pleased him.
Elise let her hands slowly drift down his body. She knew the mechanics of it and what it looked like but had never had the chance to explore or touch like this. She wanted to learn; wanted to give him as much pleasure as he was giving her.
He slowly moved his fingers down her body. He knew he was the first man to touch her and didn't want to cause her more pain than was necessary. His lips returned to hers, murmuring her name and his love for her. His fingers gently pleasured her, claiming her as his.
She cried out her body arching slightly then relaxing as the brief pain became pleasure. She opened her eyes and looked at him.
Malek stilled his fingers. “Are you alright?” he asked.
She nodded, accustoming herself to the feel of him within her. “Yes,” she breathed. “Don't stop.”
He smiled and resumed his gentle touching and exploring of her body, holding her as she shattered into a million pieces crying out his name.
His kisses grew in intensity, his body as hungry for hers as she was for him and he claimed her fully as his mate.
Elise matched his movements, lost in the love he was giving her and returning it to him. She cried out as she fell over the edge once more.
Malek smiled and kissed her then he cried out her name as he followed her to the stars moments later.
--- --- ---
He drew the other blanket over them, not wanting her to get cold. Her still naked body was cradled against his, her head on his shoulder and her fingers drawing circles over his chest. He kept his hands under the blanket, one on her back and the other slowly inching up her leg.
She raised her eyes to his. “You after something?” she asked slowly.
Jared looked at her. “Might be,” he said. “After all there are four of us… figured you and me then me and Talia then Talia and Malek.”
Talia looked at him. “Or you and me first,” she whispered. “Perhaps you could teach me to love you like Malek taught Elise.” She looked down slightly. “My love… my mate,” she whispered, hoping that wasn't too forward of her.
Jared smiled. “That sounds good to me. My love… my mate.” He pulled her gently on top of him and kissed her.
Fin
© Tels July 2006