Everything on this page is fiction. Any resemblance or reference to real persons, living or dead, is purely coincidental.

Fandom: Houston Knights
Series: Other Authors
Rating: NC-17
Pairing: Joe/Levon
Archive: Starwinder's
Title: Partners, Friends, and Lovers: Part 5
Author: Katherine Lehman
e-mail:

ksl2025@yahoo.com

Standard Disclaimer: Houston Knights belongs to Jay Bernstein and Michael Butler and Columbia Pictures. No copyright infringement is intended. This is fan fiction, written out of love for the shows. I am making no money off this. I have no money so please don't sue me. Any original characters that may appear in these stories are the property of the author.

Partners, Friends, and Lovers
Chapter 5
By Katherine Lehman

Summary: Joe and Levon settle some issues from part 4, and have a very good day together.

Morning was Levon Lundy's favorite time of day and he intended to enjoy every minute of it. He knew he was genuine rarity, almost an endangered species; an honest-to-God morning person. Levon woke up ready to take on the day, so it wasn't a hardship for him to get up before the sun. Truth was, he enjoyed watching the sunrise, feeling the world slowly come back to life.

He liked the quiet moments; no phones, no radio, no loud voices, no guns, nothing but the natural sounds of the beginning of another day. And since he was usually alone it gave him a chance to enjoy the solitude. He needed this quiet time alone the way most people needed air. It gave him a chance to think about the previous day and to brace himself for the new one.

His partner, Joe LaFiamma, would describe it as centering himself. Levon didn't honestly know what that meant, but he figured it had to be a good thing. At least these quiet times had always felt like a good thing. He liked to greet the rising sun over a cup of coffee while relaxing on his back porch. He'd already taken care of the horses and all the other chores, so he was free to enjoy the start of another day.

Levon cocked his head, listening for sounds that Joe might be stirring. He chuckled when he didn't hear anything. [Joe is definitely not a morning person. You want someone to stay up to see the sunrise, then he's your man. But the idea of getting up to greet the day just isn't his idea of a good time.] Levon shrugged. To each his own.

Levon closed his eyes and breathed deeply. If felt good to be able to do that again. It had been four weeks since he'd been attacked in the alley behind Chicken's. His ribs had healed well. They still sent faint reminders that they were less than a hundred percent whenever he moved the wrong way or too quickly, but even those were fading. All the bruises had vanished in two weeks, after they had run the usual rainbow gamut from black and blue to yellow and green. The cut above his right eye had healed without any significant scarring. Levon raised a hand absently to run his fingers over the faint line he could feel, but knew wasn't readily visible. [Good thing too. Couldn't handle Joe having a fit every time he looked at it they way he does with the one on my arm.]

The cut he had gotten that night needed thirty stitches to close, and had left a noticeable scar that ran the length of his left forearm. It was the only visible evidence left from that night. It didn't bother Levon. Hell, he had lots of scars. But whenever Joe noticed it, he would hesitate for just a moment, sort of freeze in place, and Levon knew what he was thinking when that happened. His eyes would glaze over, and for just a moment, Joe would look utterly lost. It never lasted long, less than a second, really. Joe would take a breath, shudder almost imperceptibly, and then immediately focus on whatever they had been doing before he noticed the scar.

Levon sighed. [Boy, is just fixated on the idea that I could have died.] Levon shook his head and took another deep breath. He just hoped that the effect it had on Joe would lessen with time. [Would be a real pain in the ass not to be able to ever roll up my sleeves again.]

Levon sipped his coffee. The sunrise was unremarkable. The sky was clear, and the brightness of the sun promised a day that would probably be slightly hotter than hell. It was a good day not to have to go to the office. Especially since both he and Joe had basically been desk bound for the past month. Lieutenant Beaumont wouldn't let Levon out in the field until he had the all clear from a doctor, and Joe wouldn't go anywhere without his partner. Having Joe hover over him like a mother hen, and doing nothing but paperwork, had made for the longest month of Levon's life.

Levon stood, and stretched carefully. In another week he'd get the all clear from the doctor, and hopefully things in the work-a-day world would return to normal. As it was, he intended to make the most of this brief reprieve and enjoy the unexpected bonus of a three-day weekend. Levon grinned. [Best way to get the ball rolling is ta wake Joe.]

With a light, soundless step, Levon quickly made his way to the bedroom, stopping just long enough to leave his empty coffee cup on the kitchen counter. He paused just inside the bedroom door to take in the view.

Joe's dark hair was mussed from sleep. It was really rather endearing Levon thought. Joe was always so conscious of his appearance it was rare that Levon got to seem him as anything but perfectly groomed. Messing up his hair was something Levon took an inordinate amount of pleasure in doing.

Sometime after he'd left, Joe had kicked the comforter more or less off the bed. Levon let his eyes roam freely over Joe's naked form. [Man hates sleeping in clothes. Gotta admit it's a habit of his that I really enjoy. And he's got no reason ta hide anything.]

Working out regularly kept his body in great shape, and had given him a sculpted form most artists would love to see modeled. He wasn't over developed the way body builders tend to be, just simply well defined. Levon loved to watch the play of muscles when Joe moved. And being able to touch was just icing on the cake. [Feels like steel wrapped in silk.]

Levon smiled watching Joe curl up tighter around his pillow. Joe was a cuddler by nature, and Levon always woke to find his lover snuggled in as close as he could get. Extricating himself from Joe in the morning usually took a good ten minutes. Once he left the bed, Joe would immediately pull Levon's pillow in and wrap himself around it. Levon wasn't entirely sure if the pillow was supposed to be a substitute for him or if Joe just couldn't sleep without clutching something.

Levon quietly and quickly removed the jeans and sweatshirt he'd put on earlier. He made his way carefully to the foot of the bed. Joe was a light sleeper and Levon didn't want to wake him just yet. Soon, but not just yet. He wanted to make sure Joe woke up in the right frame of mind.

He eased himself down on to the bed, and carefully made his way up to Joe. With a smile, Levon began to touch. He started with a gentle caress over one well-muscled calf, massaging a bit on the thigh, ghosting over the beautifully contoured hemispheres of Joe's ass. Levon's smile grew when he heard Joe sigh softly and begin to uncurl. He moved to place a kiss on a knee, and then nibbled the hollow of his hip. He nuzzled the distinct muscles of Joe's abdomen. Levon breathed faintly across Joe's chest, watching his nipples tighten as he did it. Levon ran his tongue over the knuckles of Joe's right hand, and began to nibble, lick and kiss his way up Joe's right arm.

As Joe stretched out and rolled from his side to his back, Levon carefully removed the pillow from his now lax grasp. He worked his way across Joe's collarbone, pausing to suck gently at the hollow where neck met shoulder. Levon eased himself so he was laying full length on Joe, and continued to work his way up Joe's neck. He stopped to lavish special attention on the spot below Joe's ear that always seemed to make him weak in the knees. Levon smiled softly when Joe's hands came up to run through his hair. [Love it when he does that.]

Levon raised his head to look into Joe's eyes. The pupils had dilated so much, his blue eyes looked black. Levon grinned seeing that look. [Not quite awake, but gettin' there.]

"Mornin' Joe." Levon said softly.

"Mornin' yourself, Cowboy." Joe's voice was still a bit rough from sleep, and Levon thought, a bit from arousal. He knew it was more arousal than sleep when Joe proceeded to kiss him passionately and thoroughly. Their tongues engaged in a lazy duel for several minutes.

Now that Joe was more or less awake, Levon began a more thorough exploration letting his hands roam over Joe at will. He let his hips rock against Joe, encouraging his partner to a similar action. Levon moaned, enjoying the friction being generated. It felt so good to be able to touch and be touched.

Because of his ribs, Joe had been reluctant to engage in their usual sex activities. Up until now, Levon had been willing to let Joe have his way. He knew Joe needed to be sure of his improving health and general physical condition. Levon knew better than to push. Well, in all honesty most of the time he didn't, but in this case he found discretion to be the better part of valor.

He figured he'd been patient long enough. He wasn't some china doll that would break if you held it too tightly. The best way to convince Joe would be to show him. And if he didn't give Joe enough time to think or wake up completely, he might just get away with it.

With the focused determination of a man with a mission, Levon carefully hit each and every erogenous zone he'd ever located on Joe. His right hand caressed the spot just above Joe's hip, while his left hand ghosted over Joe's chest applying feather light touches, teasing and arousing as it went. Levon broke the kiss to return to that spot just below Joe's ear. He couldn't help but smile when his lover began to writhe under him.

Levon slid down Joe's body. Before Joe could protest, Levon took his engorged penis in his mouth, all the way to the base, in one quick movement. He played with Joe's balls with one hand, while his using his other arm to hold his weight on his lover's hips, preventing the thrust Joe would have attempted otherwise. A few more, deep swallows, a little suck and swirl of the tongue, and he was rewarded with a symphony of tiny cries and moans. On the next dive Levon hummed slightly, letting the vibration add to the intensity.

Levon raised his head to lavish attention on the tip and run his tongue over the glans. He let one hand dip to stroke Joe's puckered hole, while the other wondered freely about his chest. He could feel his lover's body trembling under the onslaught of his hands, mouth and tongue. It was a heady feeling to know he had the power to render his usually verbal partner incapable of speech.

Levon nibbled at the leaking head in front of him. He sank is teeth in just enough to make Joe gasp in surprise, but not enough to cause real pain. He didn't want Joe coming just yet, and using his teeth, he took the edge off slightly. He carefully worked his way around the shaft, nibbling and licking down and then up.

Levon changed his focus to Joe's abdomen, placing little kisses randomly. He found Joe's belly button, letting his tongue and teeth caress that sensitive area. After a few moments, Levon moved up to lave one nipple and then the other, while letting his hand continue a slow stroke on Joe's penis. It was enough to keep him aroused, but not enough to finish him off.

Levon briefly lost sight of his objective when Joe's hands began roaming over him and finally settled on his chest, caressing his erect nipples. He moaned softly in response to that contact. Levon arched into that touch, wordlessly encouraging more.

Joe pulled his head up and placed a soul-searing kiss on his lips. Levon maintained enough presence of mind to reach for the lube sitting on the bedside stand. While their tongues dueled for the second time that morning, Levon managed to coat his fingers. Doing long division in his head helped him maintain some control when he inserted first one, then two and finally three fingers into himself. [God... God... that feels soooo good. Been so long.]

Levon swung a leg over Joe so he straddled his lover. Without hesitation Levon rocked back, letting Joe's already slick cock slide home. He grunted once, realizing immediately that a little more preparation might have been needed. Still, it was merely uncomfortable for a moment, not out right painful.

Levon leaned back to better control the angle. He rocked slightly, encouraging Joe to trust harder and faster. Being in this position always reminded him of riding. Definitely more fun than any horse I ever rode, Levon thought absently, before being distracted by the head of Joe's cock striking his prostate. Joe reached up to tweak his nibbles and Levon lost whatever coherent thought he might have been able to lay claim to.

Levon felt as if the whole world were condensing to one point. Joe dropped a hand to stroke Levon's penis, matching speed and rhythm. The sensation was just too much. Levon threw his head back, and came, breathing out Joe's name in a harsh shout. He felt Joe's orgasm hit at almost the same moment.

Totally spent, feeling sated and completely boneless, Levon collapsed on to Joe's chest. He rested his head on Joe's shoulder, trying to catch his breath, feeling Joe's now flaccid cock slip out. [Wow. Now that is the best way to spend the morning.] He grinned and wondered if he could convince Joe they should do this every morning.

He felt Joe's hands running in a soothing caress up and down his spine, and couldn't help but sigh in satisfaction. He knew it would come out sounding like a cat purring, but right at the moment, Levon felt too good to care. He had missed this. And he knew Joe had too. Levon lay quietly, listening to Joe's slowing heartbeat, and waiting for his own to return to normal.

"Levon?"

That sounded a bit too hesitant. Not at all like his partner normally sounded. Levon tried to muster enough energy to give a coherent response.

"Hmm?"

"You okay?"

"Okay?" [Stupid question. I am great. Hell, I feel like I could leap tall buildings in a single bound.] Not having the energy to say all that Levon settled for, "I am so much better than okay." Levon raised his head from Joe's shoulder. He smiled into those much beloved blue eyes, and kissed him gently.

"Your ribs?" Joe asked as soon as he broke the kiss.

"They're fine. It's been a month Joe. Relax."

"You're sure?"

"I'm sure."

Levon watched as Joe searched his face. He knew his lover was looking for any indication that he might have been less than honest. Levon felt Joe relax when he found none. With a contented sigh, he pulled Levon's head back down to his shoulder, and held him close. Joe began gently running fingers through his hair. Levon's eyes drifted shut, enjoying Joe's soothing caress.

"You planning on waking me up like that every morning?"

Levon chuckled, hearing the mixture of satisfaction and hope in Joe's voice. "Maybe. Gotta admit it beats the alarm clock."

"True. Very true." Joe shifted slight, pulling Levon in even closer. "But this doesn't really make me want to get out of bed."

Levon shrugged. "Well, there is that. Guess doin' this every mornin' might not be a good idea if we want to be ta work on time."

"Also true, unfortunately. Speaking of time... what time is it?"

Levon half opened his eyes to glance at the clock. "Almost eight."

Joe yawned widely and stretched, careful not to dislodge Levon from his perch on his chest. "How long have you been up?"

"Since five thirty."

Even though he couldn't see Joe's face, Levon knew he was frowning. For over a week after the attack, Levon had been unable to get a full night's sleep. Recurring nightmares had made it impossible to get more than a few hours of sleep at a time. He had managed to keep from waking Joe, but his ever-observant partner was fully aware that he wasn't getting enough sleep.

The nightmares had finally faded, but then the workload had gotten heavy. Despite being basically desk bound, both of them had put in some long hours. Cases going to trial, meetings with attorneys, days in court, and being trapped in the office meant they got to answer phones and work extra shifts for detectives handling active cases that kept them from putting in an appearance at Riesner. They had taken to spending most nights at Joe's apartment simply because it was closer to office. They hadn't managed to escape much before midnight, and they were back by nine every morning.

Hoping to halt whatever lecture Joe planned to give Levon raised his head and placed his fingers lightly against Joe's lips. "I told ya before...I get up the same time every day. It's just habit. 'Sides, I got all weekend to catch up on my sleep."

Joe reached up to pull his hand away, placing a soft kiss on Levon's palm before releasing it. "Promise?"

"Promise."

Joe nodded. "Good."

Levon closed his eyes again, and lay back down on Joe's shoulder. He was tired. They didn't have to be anywhere until later, so there was no reason he couldn't make good on his promise now. [Except for that fact that if I don't move soon, I won't be able to move at all.] Levon grinned. [Two of us are gonna end up stuck together if we don't move soon.]

With a sigh, Levon sat up. Seeing Joe's look, he waved a hand to indicate both of them. "Wanna take a shower with me?" He leered at Joe, letting him know he wanted more than to just shower. He knew Joe really loved the water, and sex in the shower seemed to be as natural for him as breathing. [Might as well go for broke. See if I can't convince him that I am okay. An encore would go a long way ta doin' just that.]

He got a grin in response. [You'd think I just told him Christmas came early.] "Sure, Cowboy. A shower would be great."

It was over an hour later when Levon wondered into the kitchen to make breakfast. They had come to an agreement that whenever time allowed, Levon would make breakfast, and Joe would make dinner. While not the cook Joe was, Levon could handle breakfast. His flapjacks and waffles were always outstanding. His French toast and omelets were pretty damn good too.

Levon started breakfast while Joe made the bed and basically straightened up the bedroom. Levon secretly found that amusing. Joe only did that here at the ranch. He never bothered with it at his apartment. He'd hired a cleaning lady to do it for him.

Levon sipped his second cup of coffee. He loved it strong, but he knew Joe didn't, so he placed a glass of orange juice on the table for him instead. Turning back to the counter, Levon finished making the French toast. He also fried several strips of bacon for himself. His health conscious lover wouldn't touch it, but Levon loved bacon. [Ain't really breakfast if there's no bacon.]

Joe's arms snaked around and encircled his waist, pulling Levon back into his chest and a loose hug. "You know, that stuff is going to clog your arteries." Joe stated conversationally while he nuzzled briefly at Levon's neck.

Levon nodded. "So you keep tellin' me."

"Then why don't you stop eating it?"

It was an old argument. "Cause I like it, that's why. Now go sit down."

Joe chuckled, then tightened his arms briefly before relinquishing Levon. Levon set the plates on the table and sat down across from Joe. He absently noted that Joe was dressed about as casual as he ever got. Slacks and dark blue t-shirt. The color of the shirt made his eyes look even bluer, and his dark hair seem even darker. [His hair reminds me of a raven's feathers. Same soft feel, same blue-black color.]

The dark blue color set off Joe's olive coloring, making Levon's fingers itch to touch his skin. The shirt hugged his chest, highlighting each curve and contour, and accentuated his slim waist. His ever present pendant seemed so much brighter against the dark background. Almost like the flame was providing its own light.

[Boy looks good enough to eat.] Levon shook his head. [Feel like some kind of junkie. Just had a fix and all I can think about is getting the next one.] Levon blushed when Joe looked at him and raised an eyebrow. He'd been caught staring.

"You look nice."

Joe looked down at himself, and then back up. Levon knew he didn't consider what he was wearing to be anything special, just the opposite in fact. When he dressed to impress, Joe was stunning, but Levon had come to think of his casual dress as something special. [Probably 'cause Joe doesn't do it all that often.]

Joe studied Levon for a moment, and then smiled slowly, seductively. "Never knew you were the insatiable type, Cowboy."

"I wasn't until I met you. Could spend a lifetime an' it wouldn't be enough."

Now it was Joe's turn to blush. Joe cleared his throat and not so subtly changed the subject. "What time do we have to be at the lawyer's today?"

"Told him we'd be in around noon. Didn't expect ta have the day off when I set up the appointment. Thought we'd have ta sneak out durin' our lunch break ta take care of this."

"How long do you think it will take?"

Levon shrugged. "Shouldn't ought ta be much more than half an hour. All we got left to do is sign on the dotted line."

Once this last bit of paperwork was taken care of, he and Joe would legally be next of kin. Each of them would also have limited power of attorney should either one be incapacitated in anyway. They had already up dated all the forms at the office related to who to contact in case of an emergency. Both Joe and Levon had spoken to their regular doctors, and the hospital admitting staff, about making sure their documentation reflected their listing as next of kin.

Levon had talked to Joanne. He hadn't told her that that they were lovers. She would have to split them up if she knew and neither he nor Joe wanted that to happen. So he'd only told her that they both wanted to be listed as next of kin for the other.

She already knew that Levon routinely listed his partner. When she'd been teamed with Levon, her own name had been listed. But Joe's request surprised her. She'd asked why Joe felt the need to do the same. Levon told her Joe thought that with the bulk of his family so far away, it might be best to have someone in the immediate area with the authority to okay anything the doctors wanted to do. That explanation made sense, and it wasn't actually a lie, it just wasn't the whole truth.

"You have any plans for this afternoon?" Joe asked quietly.

"Nope. You got somethin' in mind?" Levon was curious. Joe had started playing with the pendant. It had become a tell-tale sign that his lover was nervous about something.

Joe sighed and shifted slightly in his seat. "I know its not the sort of thing you're usually into, but I was thinking that... well, I noticed the other day that the art museum was having a special showing of Impressionist art and I thought... if you didn't have anything else planned... you might want to go with me."

"Impressionist?"

Joe immediately began to back pedal. "You don't have to. I could go alone"

"I'd love to go." Levon managed not to laugh at the out right disbelief on Joe's face. "So long as you don't expect me to know anything about whatever we're looking at. I don't know enough 'bout art ta fill a thimble."

"Best way to learn is to go see it."

"Have ta take your word for that. I gotta dress up for this?" Levon hated having to wear a suit. His standard attire of boots, jeans and button down shirt were acceptable almost anywhere in Houston, but he wasn't sure it would fly in a more up town setting like a museum.

Joe smiled. "Not unless you want to."

"Good." Levon paused for a minute. "It matter if I don't like everything they got hangin' on the walls?" Levon didn't want his ignorance or lack of appreciation to ruin Joe's time in the museum. It was obviously something he enjoyed and was probably important to him. But he didn't want to have to lie either and pretend to like something he didn't.

Joe laughed. "Hell, Levon, even I don't like all of it. You don't have to like all of it, just give it a chance and see if there isn't something you do like."

"I can do that. What time this exhibit thing open?"

"Not until one. Shouldn't be too busy today. I had thought about trying to see it tomorrow, but the weekends usually get crowded in a hurry."

Levon filed away the fact that Joe already knew about the crowds. [Boy must have been there a time or two on his own.] He hoped Joe hadn't gone alone every time. Didn't seem right. Joe was much more of a social person than Levon. Levon enjoyed spending time alone. He tolerated crowds when he had to, but he didn't seek them out and had been known to avoid them whenever possible.

"Okay. So we can hit the museum after meetin' with the lawyer."

"You want to eat lunch while we're in town?"

Levon shook his head, and smirked. Only his partner would be thinking about lunch when they hadn't even finished breakfast yet. "Why don't you finish what ya got in front of you. We can worry 'bout lunch when the time comes."

Joe dropped his head and looked a bit sheepish. "Okay. So I got ahead of myself."

Levon grinned, looking at Joe's nearly empty plate. "Not too far."

It didn't take long to finish off breakfast. Levon cleaned up the kitchen while Joe threw a load of laundry into the washing machine. Once the kitchen was again immaculate, Levon headed over to the desk to sort through the pile of mail that had accumulated in the last two weeks. [Junk, junk, bills, bills, more junk. Why is it that ninety-five percent of the stuff I get is shit I don't want or need.] Levon sighed, threw away the junk and started paying the bills.

He usually tried to stay ahead on his bills, never knowing when the job might make it impossible to get to them. Levon hated owing anyone. His philosophy normally followed along the lines that if he couldn't pay cash for it, then he didn't need it.

He knew that in the past his partner had a much different view of debt. [Boy's credit card bills must have eaten half his salary. Not to mention paying for that damn car.] Over the past two years, and especially over the months that they had been a couple, Joe had curtailed his own spending habits. Levon hoped it was because Joe had finally realized that he didn't need all that stuff, and not because he thought Levon would object to how he spent his money. In all honesty, Levon didn't care what Joe did or didn't do with his money.

The only time money had ever been an issue between them was the one time Joe had lied to him about it. Nearly a year after they started working together, Joe had asked him for money. Joe had wanted the money for some stock investment, but told Levon he needed it to pay for a sick relative to have surgery. Levon had almost quit working with Joe when he found out.

It wasn't the money that bothered him. It was the fact that his partner had lied to him in order to get it. Money wasn't important to Levon, and it never had been. The trust he had in his partner most definitely was. Once he managed to explain to Joe what had pissed him off was the lie and not the money, they were able to continue working together.

From that point on, Joe had made a concerted effort to be more financially responsible. Levon wasn't sure, but he suspected that Joe had only been really living far beyond his means since he'd been exiled to Houston. [Probably trying to fill the hole bein' away from his family made in his life. Ain't no way buying stuff will fix that.] Almost losing his partner and his friend might have made him realize he wasn't nearly as alone as he thought. [He never was alone. Just took him awhile ta figure it out.]

He looked up and smiled at Joe when his lover patted his shoulder as he moved past him heading for the hall closet. Joe pulled the vacuum out and ran it around the living room. Watching him, Levon felt his smile widen. [Never would have thought we'd end up being so domestic. Course it ain't all bad. Kinda like that we can figure out the day-to-day stuff without too much fussin' or fightin'.]

Levon could still remember when he and Caroline had split chores around the house. Not that he compared Joe to Caroline in any way, shape or form. It was just nice to have someone to share things with again. Even if what they were doing was as mundane as washing dishes and doing the laundry.

It also helped to establish a natural, relaxed background to their interactions. Most of the time, the things they argued about were work related. Home, be it the ranch or Joe's apartment, had become a relatively stress free environment. It made for a nice respite from their hectic, sometimes violent, and frequently dangerous work environment.

With all the general house stuff taken care of, Levon wandered back to the bedroom to put on a better pair of jeans and a clean shirt. The old pair of jeans he had on were like a second skin, and he loved the way they fit, but they were so worn and faded they really weren't acceptable to wear in public. [Mother Minnie would have a fit if I wore these anywhere but home.]

When he finished changing, Levon slipped on his good boots. With a habit so ingrained he didn't even think about it anymore, Levon had also secured a small gun in the right boot. It didn't have the range or power of his colt, but up close it was just as deadly.

Since the incident with Special Agent Harris at the seminar in Dallas, both he and Joe never went anywhere without a weapon. If he wore his shoulder rig, he'd have to have a jacket to hide the gun, because the public as rule tended to get nervous around people who were armed. Judging by the recent hot, dry spell they'd been having, today was likely to be slightly hotter than hell, and the idea of wearing more clothes was not real attractive.

As Levon made his way back to the living room he called out to his partner. "Joe?"

"Yeah?"

"You gonna wear a jacket today?" Catching sight of Joe's raised eyebrows, Levon explained, "Only reason I ask is cause it's likely to be another scorcher. Know how you ain't real keen on the heat, and wearing a jacket is only gonna make it worse."

Joe nodded his understanding, and then frowned. Levon could almost see him thinking... no jacket equals no guns. Levon mentally counted off the seconds, waiting to hear what he already knew Joe was going to say. [One chimpanzee, two chimpanzee---]

"I am not going anywhere without a gun, Lundy." Joe's voice had that flat, hard quality he got when he wasn't going to change his mind. Levon knew that tone well, and he hadn't missed the use of his surname either.

"I'm not saying you should." Levon said softly and raised his hands in a placating gesture. "I've got another ankle holster and gun if you wanna use it. Know it ain't the same as wearing your own guns, but it would be a damn site more comfortable."

He watched Joe consider the offer. After a moment, Joe shook his head. "Feel better with my own. Thanks for the offer though."

"No problem. Was just a thought."

Joe shrugged into his shoulder harness, and checked both guns before pulling on a light black jacket. Levon snagged his Stetson from the rack by the door. Joe's car keys and the keys to the Jimmy hung nearby. Most of the time they took the Jimmy, but the air conditioner had broken down under the strain of the recent heat wave.

"Be a nice day ta take your car. You wanna drive?"

"Sure, Cowboy."

Levon casually tossed the keys to Joe and headed out the door. He nonchalantly got into Joe's convertible by simply stepping over the door and sliding into the seat. His way of getting in the car never failed to elicit some kind of comment from his partner. Levon managed not to smile when he heard Joe's exasperated sigh. [Wait for it... wait for it....]

"You know, the doors do open. Would it kill you to just once get in my car like a normal person?"

Levon shrugged. "Never know. It might."

Joe muttered something in Italian. Levon chuckled softly, fairly certain that whatever it was Joe had said was probably not very complimentary.


As Levon had predicted it took just over half an hour to complete all the paperwork waiting for them at the lawyer's office. They could have been done sooner but Levon insisted they both read each document before they signed it. Joe thought that unnecessary, but Levon was adamant.

Levon had stated firmly, "Never sign your name to anythin' if you don't know what it says or understand what you're agreein' to."

Deciding it was probably sound advice, and seeing that Levon wasn't going to give in, Joe sat and read everything. Once they'd both read everything, they signed and had copies made. When it was all said and done, Joe was as beginning to wonder just how many times a person could actually sign his or her name in such a short time. [Bet we set some kind of record today.]

Still, it had taken less paper than Joe expected it would to make them legal next-of-kin. Joe breathed a sigh of relief now that it was finally finished. Short of outright adoption or marriage, they were as much family as the law would allow. It felt good to know that detail of their lives had been hashed out.

Stopping at a red light, Joe glanced over at his lover, studying his profile. Levon's hat shaded most of his face, but Joe could easily make out the clean line of his jaw and the soft curve of his lips. Joe smiled when he noticed a small mark on Levon's neck just peeking out above the collar of his shirt. Normally he was careful not to leave any visible evidence, but he hadn't been paying attention this morning.

He had thoroughly enjoyed the way Levon had chosen to wake him up this morning, and the shower together had certainly been a good idea. It was great to finally have a day off to just kick back and relax. Going to the museum was definitely an added bonus.

Joe had seen the advertisement for the show at the museum over a week ago, but he had hesitated to ask Levon. He wanted his lover to enjoy the things he enjoyed, but he didn't want to push it. It sometimes seemed like they had absolutely nothing in common. Occasionally it felt like their partnership was little more than a study in contrasts.

[Hell, I was half-afraid to even mention it. Figured he'd say no. Then he goes and says yes like it was no big deal, and I feel like a fool for worrying about being rejected. One of these days I am going to learn not to be surprised by anything he does.]

Levon's soft drawl broke through Joe's reverie. "Light's green, Joe."

He could see the faint smile on Levon's face when the car shot through the intersection. Joe glared at him, and Levon's smile just got wider. Joe shook his head, and felt an answering smile spreading on his face. [Something about that smile always makes me want to kiss him.]

"Do you want to eat lunch first or head for the museum?"

Levon looked at his watch, and shrugged. "I'm not really hungry. Ate breakfast later than usual. So we can just head for the museum if ya want."

"Works for me." Joe hung a left down the next street heading for the art museum.

"Tell me again what we're gonna ta see."

"Impressionist art exhibit."

"Okay... so what is that exactly?"

Joe looked over at Levon in surprise. Levon shifted in his seat, looking faintly embarrassed, and shrugged. "Hey, I wasn't kiddin' when I said I didn't know anythin' 'bout art."

[Guess not. Okay, start with the basics then.] Joe easily navigated his way through the light afternoon traffic while giving a brief description of Impressionist Art.

"Impressionism is a artistic style that began in the late nineteenth century and continued through the early twentieth. The idea was to basically paint things that the artist saw outside his or her window. Sort of the view you might get if you just caught a glance at something. In it's most extreme form there is very little detail, and the image is conveyed through the use of color, light and shadow. Some of them verge on being abstract. The early work tends to be more detailed than paintings done later on. But it varies from artist to artist depending on the subject matter and the artist's own preference."

"So who's stuff are we gonna see?" To Joe's surprise, Levon seemed genuinely interested.

"According to the announcement they will be displaying works by Manet, Pissarro, Degas, Sisley, Monet, Morisot, Renoir, and Cassatt."

"These guys any good?"

"Many of their paintings are considered masterpieces."

Levon nodded and flashed a quick grin at Joe. "Guess if I'm gonna learn something about art might as well start with the best, right?"

Joe nodded. "Always the best place to begin anything." He turned right down the next street. They would be at the museum in another fifteen blocks.

"Did you study art in school or is this just somethin' you've always had an interest in?"

"Little of both actually. I did take a couple of classes when I was in college, but I already had a fairly broad background in it and a lot of exposure to art long before then." Joe smiled softly, thinking about one of his favorite relatives, Aunt Rosa.

"My Aunt Rosa was a big patron of the arts. The Art Institute of Chicago was one of her favorite places. About once a month or so, she'd round up all us kids... me and my cousins, and take us to the Institute to see whatever the latest exhibit was on display. Was sort of ritual family outing. She'd come by to pick us all up, give us a lecture about what we were going to see, and admonish us to behave or else. She'd let us wander through the building going to see whatever had caught our attention at the time, even if it wasn't what we were supposed to be doing. Then she'd take us out to eat at some fast food restaurant none of our parents would approve of."

Joe could hear the wistful tone in his voice. The memories were bittersweet. Thinking about all he'd left behind, in Chicago, always left him feeling a little melancholy. Even though he was making a life for himself in Houston, he still missed his family.

Joe wasn't surprised when Levon reached over to gently caress his cheek. The touch was both a means of comfort and apology. "Sorry, Joe. I shouldn't have asked. Didn't mean ta"

"It's okay. Not your fault." Joe leaned into Levon's touch briefly. He quirked a half smile at his lover. "Just hits me once in awhile just how far from them I really am."

Levon nodded, but still looked apologetic. Joe didn't want that. Levon had nothing to be sorry for. Thinking about his family wasn't a bad thing... well, not really. It was just an old ache he was learning to live with. "I miss them, but if I were there, I'd miss you. Wouldn't trade one for the other. I just wish I could have both."

Levon cocked his head to one side, and smiled. "Always knew you were the greedy sort."

"Not true. I just don't think you can ever have too much of a good thing."

"Uh-huh. Sure."

Hearing the teasing quality to Levon's voice, Joe felt better. He had realized some time ago that his mood was tightly linked with that of his lover's. When Levon was happy, he was happy. For the first time he realized it might just work both ways.

With a lighter heart, he smoothly pulled into the museum parking lot, and found an open space. With a great deal of effort he managed not to comment when Levon simply stood and stepped over the door to get out of the car. The grin on Levon's face let Joe know his partner was fully aware that Joe was biting his tongue.

"You, are a very bad boy."

Levon's brown eyes sparkled as they wandered shamelessly up, and then down Joe's body. "You can punish me later." His voice was that same husky whisper that got to Joe every single time. Joe felt his mouth go dry, and coughed to clear his throat.

[Damn. Don't know what's gotten into the man, but I am beginning to think we never should have gotten out of bed.] On second thought, he knew exactly what had brought on this display of lust. Abstaining for a month hadn't been easy for him either.

Joe shook his head and schooled his features to look stern. Unconsciously, he found himself mimicking his Aunt Rosa. "You better be on your best behavior young man or else."

Levon hung his head and put his hands behind his back in a posture of contrition, reminding Joe a little boy who'd gotten caught stealing cookies. "Yes, sir." Levon said softly, still with that same husky voice. When he looked back up, Joe could see the mischief dancing in his eyes.

Joe shook himself, like a wet dog, trying to stay in control. [There ought to be a law.] He decided it would be best to simply turn and head for the museum, otherwise he might be tempted to just strip Levon naked and take him hard and fast against the hood of the car. He forced his mind away from the image it immediately presented. [Do. Not. Go. There.]

Joe felt Levon move to walk in step beside him. Together they entered the front doors, pausing just long enough for Joe to pay the price of admission. When Levon looked as if he might protest, Joe stopped him with a raised hand. "I invited you. My treat."

Levon touched two fingers to the brim of his Stetson in a silent salute, and dipped his head slightly in acknowledgement. It was a very old-fashioned gesture, and Joe smiled when he saw it. [I swear the man was born a century too late.]

Joe handed a copy of the color brochure to Levon. It contained brief write-ups about each artist, and the various paintings on display. Levon casually flipped through it as they made their way to the Impressionist Exhibit.

Joe was pleased there were so few people present. It was almost as if they had the place to themselves. [Not bad having our own private showing.] Joe tried to get to the museum whenever he had a weekend free, and the crowds were sometimes a nuisance. The general quiet atmosphere and freedom to move was going to be just perfect. He knew Levon wasn't a big fan of crowds.

[Sort of weird when I think about how much time he had to have spent dealing with crowds. Being the star player would have certainly put the man in the limelight of many a crowd when he was in college, not to mention all the traveling together the football team had to have done. Might be why he doesn't care to be in them now.]

Together they wandered through the various rooms, going from painting to painting. Joe found himself enjoying watching Levon as much as he did looking at the masterpieces. Observing his partner, it wasn't difficult to figure out which paintings he liked and which ones he didn't.

Anyone who didn't know him wouldn't have noticed any overly obvious signs of dislike. Levon would just study a painting with his head cocked to one side, his expression the same intense, searching look Joe had seen whenever Levon focused all of his attention on one thing. Brown eyes would roam over the painting, taking in color and detail. Several times Levon stepped back to get a clearer view. Then, once he'd made up his mind about it, he would either shake his head, dismissing the painting entirely, or he would smile slightly in approval before moving on.

Levon spent a long time studying Manet's Olympia and Nymph Surprised, and Cassatt's Mother and Child and Summertime. He barely glanced at Degas' Rehearsal or Monet's Sunrise and Rouen Cathedral. Joe noticed when Levon frowned in obvious distaste at Sunrise.

[Interesting. Wonder why he doesn't care for Monet?] "You don't like Monet?"

Levon shrugged, and looked slightly defensive. "You did say I didn't have ta like everything."

Joe nodded. [Easy, Cowboy.] "You don't." He was quick to assure Levon, knowing his friend would be uncomfortable so far out of his element. "I was just curious why you don't like this one."

Levon sighed. "Not sure I can explain it."

"Give it a shot." Joe encouraged softly. He was wondering how the cowboy would explain his preference.

"Okay." Joe managed not to smile when he saw Levon square his shoulders, and straighten his spine just a bit.

"I know you said the whole point of this stuff was to just create just an impression, but I guess I prefer a bit more... detail, definition. His stuff is... well, too fuzzy, I guess." Levon shrugged a shoulder. "It looks like a photograph that got taken before the lens was totally in focus."

"Seen a lot of sunrises in my time. Hell, it's my favorite time of day. But the way he painted it... well, it doesn't really make me feel like I do when I sit on the porch waiting for the sun ta come up. I think he got the gist of it right... the way it would look with the sun coming up over the river on a foggy morning, but he didn't get the way it feels." Levon sighed, and waved a hand in a vague meaningless gesture. "Ah, just forget it, Joe. I probably ain't sayin' this right."

"Oh, I don't know about that. I think you did a fine job explaining it. The whole point of painting is to convey meaning, or emotion, as well as being nice to look at. Not every one gets the same feeling about any one painting. That's why there are some many different artists, styles and subject matter." Joe nodded toward Sunrise. "I never really cared for this one either. Although, for me, it had more to do with the color. It always seemed so bland compared to his other work. It seemed to lack life and expression that I think he manages to infuse in his other paintings."

Joe glanced toward Rouen Cathedral. It was one of his favorites. The play of light and shadow, and the incredible colors, made something as solid and immutable as a church seem light and airy. But Levon had only given it a cursory glance. "You didn't like that one either?"

"Not really." Levon shrugged. "Never been all that religious. So I might have missed the point he was tryin' ta make with it. And ta me, a building is a building. I mean the craftsmanship and the level of effort that goes into it...yeah, I've been impressed by different buildings. But I don't really care ta study architecture, and it isn't the sort of thing I'd hang on the wall ta just look at for pleasure. I like the landscape stuff that Sisley and Pissaro did a lot better."

Joe looked at the painting again. He could definitely see where it would have limited appeal for a man like his lover. The beauty of the natural world impressed Levon far more than anything man made.

Now that they were talking about the artwork, Joe found it easy to ask what Levon thought of each painting as they continued through the exhibit. With little effort, Joe found himself discussing with his partner the pro's and con's of each piece and the respective artists. He was surprised to find that he and Levon preferred many of the same pieces, although often for different reasons.

The conversation continued through several other exhibits. It was turning out to be, without a doubt, one of the best visits to a museum Joe had ever had. [I should have asked him a long time ago.]

Looking at several charcoal sketches Joe was reminded of the drawings he'd seen in Levon's notebook at the seminar in Dallas. Those drawings were easily as good or better than the ones currently on display. [Can't understand how he could know nothing about art, and still be able to draw the way he does. No time like the present to ask him. Except for the fact that the man is never very forth coming about his past. Sometimes I think a mime has more to say than he does. Although, I am grateful he doesn't tend toward the dramatic gestures.]

Not without some trepidation, Joe finally asked Levon, "You didn't ever study art? Not even in college?"

"Nope."

"You never had someone teach you to draw?" Joe persisted.

Levon raised an eyebrow. "Didn't I just answer that? No, Joe. I never had any kind of art lesson, or took a class related to art."

"But, I've seen your sketches."

Levon frowned. "What sketches?"

"The ones in the notebook you had with you at that seminar."

Levon snorted. "Those are just doodles, Joe. Ain't nothing special."

[Doodles!!?? Nothing special!!? How could he not know how good those sketches are?] With great care, Joe kept his voice neutral. He wasn't ready to end the conversation yet, and if he said something the wrong way, Levon would just clam up or blow up, and neither response would get the answers he wanted.

"Levon, doodles are cartoon characters or geometric designs or just random marks on a page. What you drew in that notebook were as much works of art as the stuff hanging on the walls here."

Levon looked around the room and shook his head. "I doubt that."

[Okay. Let's try a different approach.] "How long have you been 'doodling'?"

"Been foolin' around with it since I was a kid."

"Just using regular pencils?" Joe clearly remembered the sketches done in colored pencil, and with charcoal.

"Mostly. I played around with colored pencils, and charcoal a time or two. Just out of curiosity more than anythin' else. It is just somethin' I do to amuse myself. Course at that seminar I was doin' it ta stay awake." Levon smiled at Joe, and winked. "Couldn't have us both nappin'. Joanne would have had a fit."

Joe returned the smile, pleased that Levon hadn't shut him down yet. "Why didn't you ever take lessons or sign up for a class? I mean you have talent." When it looked like Levon would disagree, Joe stopped him with a hard look. "Trust me on that. I can barely draw a stick figure, but I definitely know a good sketch when I see one. You have to have realized not everyone can draw, even just playing around, as well as you do."

Levon sighed. "Fair enough." He paused, as though searching for the right words, or maybe just for the right place to begin. "When I was in high school.... Well, it's like every school, I suppose. There were cliches... the jocks, the eggheads... whatever. I was a jock. Sort of left me hard wired inta certain things. An' because of that, there was a lot left out. 'Sides, I wasn't exactly the artistic type."

"Artistic type? Which is what, exactly?" Joe knew what that meant to him, but he wasn't sure what it meant to his partner.

"You know, dress all in black, speak French, looking a bit like you were high most of the time, and puttin' on airs like you were deeper or smarter than everybody else."

"Got it." Joe had seen a lot of stereotypical artist types and he knew exactly what Levon meant. [No. I can't really see him that way either. In a small high school, like the one Levon went to, I doubt they would have realized being an artist didn't necessarily mean looking or acting like that.]

"Biggest reason for not doin' anythin' with it would have been that stuff like lessons and supplies cost money. Money I didn't have, and my old man wasn't gonna to give me. Might have a talent for it, but that don't mean it would pay for itself. Hell, Joe, most of the stuff in here wasn't worth anythin' until these fellers died. I might not know a damn thing about art, but I do know that most of these guys were starving when they were alive. Lot of them couldn't give their stuff away, much less sell it."

[Cowboy has a point. Just being good at it is no guarantee you can make money at it. Still, not to develop that skill, to not explore the possibilities...well, it just doesn't seem right.]

"What about when you were in college? You could have taken something as an elective."

Levon shook his head. "Texas A & M is an Ag school, Joe. Not really well known for an art program. 'Sides I didn't have the time for anythin' I didn't have ta take. Between the required classes, and football... well, there wasn't a lot left over."

Joe opened his mouth to ask another question when his stomach interrupted with a loud growl. Right on cue, Levon's stomach echoed it with a growl of its own. An older woman, who reminded him of a judgmental grade school librarian, shot both them a disapproving frown. Joe barely managed to stifle the urge to stick out his tongue at her when he saw Levon smile. Joe found himself smiling back at his lover. [I just know he knows what I was thinking. I bet he was even thinking the same thing.]

"Maybe we can shelve this round of twenty questions until after we have lunch." Levon glanced at the clock on the wall. "Or might be better just ta have an early supper."

Looking at the clock, Joe was started to see it was nearly 4:30. They had spent nearly three and a half hours wondering through the museum. [Never would have thought we'd be here so long.]

"Yeah. An early supper is a great idea. Come on, Cowboy. Let's go home."

Together they headed back outside to Joe's car. To Joe's amazement, Levon actually opened the door and got in like he was supposed to, instead of his usual step-over-the-door method. [Just when I think I've got him figured out, I swear the man does stuff just to keep me guessing. Like finally opening the door to my car, or answering my questions...hmm...he did say we could continue playing twenty questions. Let's see if he meant it.]

Sliding in behind the wheel, Joe started the car before asking his next question. "So what did you study in school that you didn't have time for an elective art class?"

"Major was Ag business and economics and my minor was in animal husbandry with an emphasis on horses."

"Animal husbandry? Husband... like marriage... husband and wife?" Joe frowned, confused thinking he had to have misheard that.

Levon chuckled. "No, it ain't marryin' animals. Means the science of raisin' an' breedin' critters. For me the focus was horses. But you could focus on beef cattle or dairy, sheep, goats, chickens... well, you get the idea."

Pulling out of the parking lot and heading back to the ranch, Joe considered this. "You didn't study some kind of law enforcement?"

"Nope."

Joe shook his head, dumbfounded. That wasn't what he'd expected Levon to say at all. "I don't get it."

"What's ta get?"

"Well, I thought you always planned to be a cop. You told me your grandfather was a Texas Ranger, and that he taught you how to shoot at as a kid."

Levon raised an eyebrow. "Grandpa was a Ranger, and he did teach me how ta shoot. Don't mean I always planned ta be a cop."

"Fair enough. I guess I just never really thought of you as being anything but a cop." He offered as a sort of apology, not entirely sure if he needed to apologize or not.

"Know what ya mean. Can't picture you as a lawyer either."

"So... how did you end up as a cop?" Joe had told Levon why he'd given up on the idea of being a lawyer, and how he ended up working as a cop. He was hoping his partner would be willing to do the same.

Levon sighed and looked out the window. His voice was soft, almost reflective. "Making plans for your life is sometimes the biggest waste of time. Never works out the way ya think it will. Ain't always all bad that it don't."

Levon reached over and caressed Joe's cheek. His hand trailed down Joe's arm until he captured Joe's hand. He gently entwined their fingers. Levon's gaze rested on their hands. "Never planned to met you. Didn't plan on liking you or fallin' in love with you either. Guess that just goes to prove Mother Minnie was right when she told me the best things in life are usually accidental and almost always surprise you."

Levon sighed softly. "My plan was ta play pro ball for as long as my body held out, save enough money to buy a spread and raise horses when I retired from football. That was the plan. But then I ruined my shoulder, and pro ball wasn't gonna be an option anymore. While I was waitin' for my shoulder ta heal, I spent a lot of time with Mother Minnie. Lot of that time was just feelin' sorry for myself."

Joe squeezed Levon's hand gently. He knew all too well what it felt like to have a dream ripped away from you. He almost regretted asking the question. [Nothing like digging up old wounds, Joey. You should have left it alone.]

"Mother Minnie didn't have any patience for self-pity, and I have ta admit she was right. Wasn't like the world ended... just meant I had to make a new plan. Find something else ta do with my life. Don't really know how it came about, but we talked about grandpa a lot. I always had a lot of respect for him. Even as a little kid, I knew he was a good man, kind of guy I could look up to. He was what they used ta call a stand-up man. Kind of man who could be trusted, was honest, and reliable. Someone who always did an honest days work for an honest days pay. Sort of guy you went to when you were in trouble, or needed help."

Levon looked out the window again, but didn't release his hold on Joe's hand. "Guess I wanted to be like him. I wanted to be the kind of man he'd have been proud to know. Wanted to be the kind of man he would have called a friend." Levon shrugged one shoulder. "And the next thing I know I'm signing up at the academy."

Joe brought their joined hands to his lips and placed a soft kiss on the back of Levon's hand. "You are a stand-up man, and a damn fine cop. I think your grandfather would have been proud to know you and to call you a friend. Just like I am."

The smile Levon gave Joe was bright with love. "Thanks, Joe. Means a lot to me."

Joe nodded and, after another squeeze, released Levon's hand. He had more questions, but decided it might be best to just let it rest for now. He'd already gotten far more from his usually taciturn partner than he honestly expected. He was learning not to push.

The rest of the drive back to the ranch was made in silence. Joe concentrated on weaving through Friday rush hour traffic. He'd forgotten the rest of the world had to work today, and would be driving crazier than usual, eager to escape their jobs and start on the weekend. Joe still thought people in Houston were the worst drivers he'd ever seen. [Nuts. The whole lot of them are just nuts.]

Finally, escaping most of the traffic, Joe breathed a sigh of relief. He glanced over at Levon. Joe smiled fondly. Apparently Levon was making good on his promise to catch up on his sleep, because he was dozing quietly, and had probably been doing so for some time.

[Wished he'd said something to me about his nightmares. Not that I could have stopped them, but he didn't have to try and handle that alone. Stubborn SOB. And the past two weeks were no picnic. Might as well let him sleep till we get home.]

Pulling into the driveway, Joe turned off the car. He reached over to shake Levon's shoulder. "Hey, Cowboy, we're home."

Levon took a deep breath, and opened his eyes. He yawned and rubbed a hand over his face. "Sorry, Joe. Didn't mean ta fall asleep."

"No harm done. Come on, let's go see about something to eat."

Levon nodded. He stood and nonchalantly stepped over the door and out of the car. Joe sighed loudly, and Levon just smirked.

"I did say you could punish me later. Might as well make sure I deserve it."

"Oh, you'll deserve it." Joe's voice was a soft growl. It held more promise than threat. The look he received in return could only be called seductive.

"Lookin' forward to it." Levon's voice dipped to that husky tone.

Joe felt himself immediately responding to it. [God! No man should be allowed to look so good, and sound like that.] The image he'd had in the museum parking lot of taking Levon hard and fast against the hood of his car was back in spades.

"In the house. Now. Before the neighbors have to call the cops and report a case of public indecency."

Levon laughed lightly. That teasing laughter was a sound Joe never got tired of hearing, and one he didn't hear nearly often enough. With an overly casual saunter, Levon sashayed past Joe, and headed for the door. Joe watched Levon's beautiful ass, clad in those tight jeans, and he could feel his mouth water.

He followed his lover into the house. Joe grabbed Levon and spun him around, pinning him against the door. He claimed Levon's mouth in a kiss that was almost savage in its intensity. [He always tastes so damn good.]

Levon responded by pulling Joe in closer. His hands moved upward, until they were entangled in Joe's hair. He used that gentle grip to angle Joe's head for an even deeper, more passionate kiss.

After what felt like several minutes, Joe finally broke the kiss, coming up for air feeling dizzy. He leaned into Levon, enjoying the feel of full body contact, and hearing Levon's breathing as ragged as his own. He licked Levon's earlobe and then blew across it. Joe smiled when he felt a faint shudder run the length of Levon's lanky frame. [That gets him every time.]

Joe nuzzled Levon's neck, breathing in deeply. Not really sure why but Levon's scent was even more of a turn on. He usually smelled of clean sweat, leather, and something uniquely Levon. Joe was sure he'd be able to recognize his partner in a crowded room, even blindfolded, just by that scent.

Joe nibbled and licked his way down Levon's neck. When Levon made an attempt to move, Joe pinned him resolutely against the door. Joe grabbed Levon's wrists and held them gently, but firmly. "No. No moving. You were a bad boy. Remember?"

Levon smiled. His pupils so dilated they made his brown eyes nearly black. "I remember."

Joe moved Levon's hands until they rested against the door. He released them with a stern look to remind Levon not to move. Joe then proceeded to slowly, and deliberately unbutton Levon's shirt. He stopped between each button to caress the small expanse of newly exposed skin. He stopped when he reached the waistband of Levon's jeans.

Reaching up, Joe removed Levon's Stetson, and placed on its usual hook near the door. He then ran his fingers Levon's hair, enjoying the feeling of the silky blond strands running between his fingers. Levon closed his eyes, a soft moan escaping from his parted lips.

Joe tilted Levon's head slightly, just enough for him to place butterfly kisses across his forehead. With his tongue he traced the faint scar he found above Levon's right eye. He paused to take a deep breath. He knew where that scar came from. Forcibly Joe reminded himself of what Levon had said to him once before.

"Scars aren't reminders that you got hurt. They are proof you survived." When Joe would have protested, Levon stopped him with a look. "Shit that kills you don't leave scars, Joe. If it makes you feel better, you can think of them as souvenirs you never lose."

[He survived. It's just proof that he survived, Joey. Need to remember that.]

Deliberately, Joe traced the scar again with his tongue. He continued to place more butterfly kisses across Levon's closed eyes, his cheekbones, and finally to his lips. This time his kiss was gentle, asking for permission instead of demanding it. Levon sighed into his mouth, and willingly granted access. Joe let his tongue plunder that warm, wet cavity.

Reluctantly, Joe released Levon's mouth. He nuzzled his way down the right side of Levon's neck. He pushed Levon's shirt down off his shoulders, effectively trapping his arms in addition to exposing more flesh. Joe let his tongue trace the surgery scar he found on Levon's right shoulder. He knew it had come from the efforts doctors had made to repair the damage done.

Levon's body was quivering now, both with passion and the effort to remain still. Joe could hear his breathing growing even more ragged. Joe smiled, and let his hands drift across Levon's chest. When his fingers began to caress Levon's nipples, Levon arched his body away from the door, leaning into that touch.

Joe laid his palms flat against Levon's chest and pushed him back against the door. He leaned in to whisper in Levon's ear. "Don't move."

"Tryin', Joe... hard not to... tryin'." Levon panted.

"I know." Joe could feel the wicked little grin on his face. He knew if Levon really wanted to get away or move, he would. Joe wouldn't be able to stop him without doing serious damage.

Joe was a little taller, and a little heavier, but Levon's lean frame and defined musculature was mute testimony to his own strength. And as a cop, he would definitely posses the skill necessary to affect an escape. It was a giddy feeling to know that Levon was trying not to move simply because Joe told him not to.

Joe lowered his head to lave one hard pink nipple. He heard Levon's sharp intake of breath, and could just make out the flexing of his hands against the door. Joe moved on to other nipple, sucking softly and just barely applying his teeth. He didn't release his prize until he heard Levon whimper and start to squirm. [Always forget just how sensitive he his.] Like a cat lapping at a bowl of cream, Joe applied delicate licks to the rest of Levon's chest, giving his lover a chance to regain some control.

He found the scar where Levon had been shot in the left shoulder a year before they'd met. He kissed it, careful to be tender even though the flesh had been healed for a long time. He moved up to the hollow of Levon's throat, and lavished special attention on that spot, knowing it was one of Levon's personal erogenous zones.

Bringing his hands up, Joe ran them through Levon's hair again. He pulled away slightly, enjoying the way his lover looked. Eyes closed, his skin was flushed, lips parted and slightly swollen, his shirt half off, and his breathing ragged. [He looks debauched. And positively edible.]

"You are so beautiful."

Levon opened his eyes. "If you say so."

"I say so." Joe stated firmly. "Want to take this into the bedroom?" Joe asked, leaning in to suckle on Levon's earlobe.

"Yeah." Levon's answer came out as little more than a long sigh.

Joe pulled his dazed lover to the bedroom. When Levon would have moved to shrug out of his shirt, Joe stopped him. "No. I want to undress you. Sit on the bed."

Levon sat, letting his body slid down Joe as he did it. Joe shivered slightly. Seated on the bed, Levon's head was now level with Joe's stomach. Levon leaned in and rubbed his face against Joe's abdomen. Joe couldn't suppress a low moan.

Joe sunk gracefully to his knees and grasped Levon's right boot. He pulled it off, careful of the ankle holster and gun he knew his partner was wearing. He undid that and set it cautiously aside, the cop in him making sure the safety was still on. Then he removed the left boot.

Joe moved forward so that he was positioned between Levon's legs. He reached for Levon's belt and undid it slowly. He unbuttoned and unzipped his jeans, pulling the half undone shirt out as he did so. He finished undoing all the buttons and pulled off Levon's shirt.

"Lift up." He ordered. And Levon complied, letting Joe take off his jeans. With his lover now totally naked, Joe let his eyes drink in the sight before him. [Damn. He is so beautiful.]

Tilting his head up, Joe kissed Levon. He rose slowly and moved forward, pushing Levon back until he was lying on the bed. Joe pulled away, and ordered Levon to stay. Hungry brown eyes followed his every move.

Never taking his eyes off Levon, Joe shrugged out of his jacket, and hung it on a nearby chair. He carefully removed his guns and placed them on the floor near Levon's ankle holster. It wasn't really a good idea to leave them there, but it would be fine for the moment.

He tucked his pendant inside his shirt, not wanting to tangle it in his shirt when he removed it. In one smooth move he pulled his T-shirt up over his head, and let it fall to the floor. He stepped out of his loafers, and quickly removed his slacks and boxers. Letting his cloths fall in a careless pile on the floor. Joe joined Levon on the bed, letting his hands ghost over his lover from his feet all the way to his shoulders.

Joe reached for where he'd left the lube under his pillow when he'd made the bed that morning. He claimed Levon's mouth while he popped the top and slicked his fingers. He inserted one in Levon's tight, hot hole. Levon moaned and rocked his hips. He threw his head back, tight tendons standing out in harsh relief.

Joe couldn't resist sucking at the exposed pulse point. He inserted yet another finger, opening Levon a little more. When he brushed Levon's prostate, he was rewarded with one of those long sighs that sounded so much like a purring cat. Joe grinned, and began licking and gently nipping his way across Levon's throat. He inserted a third finger. [Almost ready.]

Levon made a soft sound of distress and longing when Joe withdrew his fingers. "Easy, Cowboy. We're not done."

He found the lube and stroked his own rock hard cock. He was already dripping. Being able to touch and tease Levon had affected him just as much as it had his lover. In one slow, smooth role of his hips, he slid his cock home. [Love being able to see his face when we do this.]

Joe did another slow rolling stroke, and then leaned forward to whisper in Levon's ear. "You can move now if you want."

Never one to pass up an opportunity, Levon's hands immediately came up to run through Joe's hair, and pull him into a deep passionate kiss. Joe moaned when those wonderfully talented hands began roaming freely over his chest. Even after all the time they had been together, it was Levon's hands that got to him more than anything else. Those long-fingered, almost delicate, incredibly clever hands. [There is magic in his touch. Has to be. No one else has ever touched me like he does.]

Joe could feel a tingle beginning at the base of his spine, and increased his rhythm. He dropped a hand to Levon's dripping cock and began a matching stroke. Faint shudders began to run the length of Levon's lanky frame.

Joe felt like he was riding the crest of a wave. It felt so incredibly good. He wished it could last forever.

"Good... so good... Joe... Please..."

"Please what?" Joe breathed into Levon's ear.

"Please... want ta...God, so good... want ta come... please, Joe."

Joe smiled, and increased his speed, and adjusted his angle to that he hit Levon's prostrate with every stroke. Joe could feel Levon's orgasm beginning to over take him. The shudders were coming at regular intervals. The muscle spasms trigged Joe's own release. It hit with so much force that Joe could feel his eyes rolling back into his head. [God!!]

Joe collapsed on top of Levon, unable to do anything more than simply breathe. He lay with his head resting on Levon's shoulder, content to do nothing more than listen to Levon's slowing heart beat. Levon raised a hand to run it through Joe's hair, and then down his spine. Over and over, Levon continued the long, gentle stroke. [Nice. Very nice.]

"Remind me ta be a bad boy more often. This kind of punishment beats standin' in the corner any day."

Joe chuckled. "That it does." With a sigh, Joe stretched and shifted slightly so that not all his weight rested on his partner. He could feel Levon's breathing deepen and knew he was falling asleep. He wasn't too far from sleep himself. Joe snuggled in closer. [Just close my eyes for a minute.]

Half an hour later, Joe opened his eyes. He rolled over, careful not to wake Levon, feeling totally relaxed and incredibly good. He smiled fondly at his sleeping lover. He was grateful Levon was finally back up to a hundred percent. Joe had missed this intimacy, this ability to physically act on the love he felt for his partner and friend.

Joe worked his way off the bed, and stood, stretching to his full height, arms over his head. Not feeling like getting dressed, Joe simply grabbed the robe hanging from the back of the bedroom door. He picked up his guns and Levon's. He put Levon's in its usual place, the nightstand drawer, and hung his shoulder harness from the bedpost.

Joe paused to simply look at Levon still stretched out full length on the bed, totally naked. His blond curls were running wild, and he was smiling ever so slightly. [I am one lucky man.] Joe snagged the corner of the comforter and pulled it up to cover his lover. Unable to resist, Joe leaned down to place a tender kiss on his forehead. Levon stirred slightly at his touch.

"Shh... it's okay. I'm just going to make dinner. I'll wake you when it's done." Joe whispered. He smiled when Levon gave him a sleepy, "kay," and snuggled into the comforter.

Joe headed for the kitchen. He hummed quietly to himself while he made dinner. He couldn't believe what a good day it had been. [Will definitely have to find a way to have another day like this one. Lots more days like this one.]

The End

Everything on this page is fiction. Any resemblance or reference to real persons, living or dead, is purely coincidental.