Gundam Wing Fan Fiction ❯ A Matter of Good Sense -- Revised ❯ Trial ( Chapter 5 )

I make no claim to any of the Gundam Wing characters. This story is written for my, and hopefully others' enjoyment and not for monetary profit. A huge thanks to Diane and Anasazi for the beta.

A Matter of Good Sense
by Michalyn

Chapter Five: Trial

Cupping his goblet, Trey shifted restlessly against the wall. A massive chandelier loomed overhead, pinpoints of light swirling on the surface of his wine and glittering off the jeweled fingers and necks in the banquet hall. There was a constant flow of chatter from the guests and from the press of bodies, a rustling of crinoline and silk like the stirring of brittle leaves. Trey kept his eyes on the door, hoping for a glimpse a particular dark head. When Wufei did not appear, he merged into the seething mass, weaving past a gaggle of noblewomen on his way to the doors.

"When do you think they'll announce it?"

"When? Don't you mean if?"

"You don't believe it?"

"I shall believe it when I see it. Maurice and I have this bet going--Oh, excuse me."

The women parted to let Trey pass. His lips curled in disapproval but none had the grace to blush. They stared back at him, the movements of their wrists never pausing as their fans split the air. He turned and their laughter, equally merciless, tinkled behind him.

What a positively horrid crowd, Trey thought darkly. He wandered the halls, a knot of anger in his chest at the callous disregard he'd observed for Wufei thus far. Though most were more circumspect than the women he'd met, Trey was no fool: there was a frission of excitement in the air tonight that had little to do with good will. His brow knitted. Wufei was no doubt a difficult pill to swallow, but surely he was not as as bad as all that? Was no one here to wish him well? Trey's frown deepened. No wonder Wufei was so guarded.... This was hardly an environment to inspire trust....

He lingered at the foot of the stairs, staring into the darkeness of the upper rooms. Still no prince.... There was a single bloom in a tumbler of water on the sideboard and Trey stopped to admire it. Fingering the lolling stamen, his thoughts turned once more to Wufei -- the desire to see him now strengthened by the incident in the banquet hall. The need itself -- a jumble of nerves, lust and a fierce tide of protectiveness -- he preferred not to examine.

He had come to Eires for a strategic partnership. The wedding itself he did not ponder. "I don't need devotion" he had thought. "Loyalty to Rossetti is all I ask." Trey imagined an Eirean prince gracious and composed: a man with a practiced mask. They would present a united front and neither would interfere with the other's private demons. In time, if they were lucky, an amiable, lukewarm passion would evolve between them. Uncomplicated --ideal....

So why did that vision suddenly seem like the flickering of a candle behind a screen: a shadow -- perfect and insipid? When had he begun to crave Wufei's naked flame? So dangerous, and yet.... The women's eyes flashed before him. Vulnerable too.... Easily stifled by a cruel wind....

The sound of a footstep made Trey whirl. Wufei hesitated on the landing. His gaze skittered to Trey and the very air seemed to shimmer between them.

Oh, sweet gods....

Wufei was wearing an open-throated shirt, pale as a robin's egg and of such delicate weave that it followed the lines of his body like a caress. His breeches, a soft, navy velvet were snug, molding to his hips and the muscles of his thighs. They clasped just below the knee, at which point gave way to thin, white stockings. His calves bulged beneath the material, drawing the eye downward to his shoes and the shiny buckle on the little foot poised so uncertainly on the step before Trey.

And Trey ... Trey was.... He had no name for the feeling constricting his chest. He had known Wufei kept himself hidden -- like a flower tightly furled -- but this ... this was.... Blood throbbed in his temples, the dizzy heat in contrast to the mahogany rail beneath his palm. One ... two ... three ... four ... five.... Closer... closer ... until he could breathe Wufei's scent....

"Kala," Trey bowed. "You look stunning."

"Rossetti--" Wufei looked everywhere but at him.

"What?"

"Let me pass."

"But we're a couple now, Sweeting. Is it not proper to make our entrance together?

Wufei pressed his lips together so hard they whitened. "We are nothing as far as I am concerned. And you would do well to remember that my given name is Wufei."

"Then, Wufei, it would not bother you in the least to dance with me this evening, correct?" Trey stared into Wufei's eyes, magnified by the lenses of his glasses. "After all, what is a dance between two strangers who mean nothing to each other?"

"No. I never dance." Wufei moved to slide past him, but Trey grinned and deftly blocked his path. Making and impatient sound, Wufei raised a hand as if to ward him off. Trey caught it and brought it to his mouth. The pads of Wufei's fingers were moist against his lips and the faintest perfume clung to them, as if Wufei had been picking roses.

They were also like ice.

Poor little prince. "Oh Kala...," Trey kissed each trembling digit in turn. "Don't be frightened. I won't let any harm come to you."

"Don't--" Wufei struggled in his grasp, "Don't be ridiculous! Why should I need your protection? The only thing I'm frightened of is you!"

Trey blinked. The world seemed to contract, narrowing to the weight of Wufei's palm nestled against his and the pulse throbbing at his wrist. He could see the dawning horror on Wufei's face as he realized what he'd revealed.

"Wufei--"

"Wh-what I mean is...." Wufei scuttled backward, tripping on the step behind him. Trey saved him from falling -- pulled him close and cupped him tenderly behind the head like a child.

"Am I truly so terrible?" he asked. He traced the curve of Wufei's hip and the vital heat of him burned his palm. "Or is it something else you fear?"

"No.... I ... you ... misunderstand me."

"Do I?"

Wufei's lashes lowered. "Yes."

Trey regarded him. The voices drifted from the banquet hall below, a distant roar barely muffled by the heavy doors. He let his hands slide from Wufei's waist. "Very well then. Our public awaits."

*

"And who is that, over there?" Trey pointed to a thin man standing just beyond the dais.

Wufei's fingers clenched in the tablecloth. "Must you know everyone?"

Trey smiled at him, nonplussed. "Of course. Besides, what else is there to do?"

Wufei stared. They were on display before the entire kingdom and all Rossetti could think of was the lack of entertainment? Didn't he realize it was for one very simple reason?

They were it .

Trey, of course, was unconcerned. Nibbling on a patee, he would occasionally bestow a munificent smile upon the noblemen drifting past. What Wufei wouldn't give to be so flippant. Then again, he supposed it was easy when one stood nothing to lose.... Wufei sighed as the dial on the wall completed another agonizing arc. Surely they had been here longer than that. As much as he dreaded what was to come, Wufei had to admit, part of him looked forward to it too: He was eager to return to life at a more placid pace. His books and the Sheelokata would be a blessing after all this. He did not yet have a goal to guide him now that he wouldn't be master of the temple, but that was all right wasn't it? His devotion didn't have to waver.... Next to him Trey dabbed at his mouth with a flourish. Even with Rossetti as a husband, surely that would not be so difficult...?

"You know," Trey sipped at his drink. Wufei's own goblet remained untouched between them. "That's the fourth time you've looked at that door."

"So?" Wufei wiped his palms along the fronts of his thighs. What new humilation would Trey try to impose upon him now?

"So, don't fret so much. You're even tenser than in the hall. If you keep that up, your neck will be one mess of knots before the night is over. Of course," Trey's eyes were hooded. " I'd be happy to ... ease ... you."

Wufei felt his cheeks grow hot. " Stop playing games! At least have some appreciation for the importance of this event."

"What makes you think I don't?" Trey frowned. "You're not the only one with something at stake, here."

Wufei lowered his eyes. "Forgive me." The barb was well deserved. He was so preoccupied with his own turmoil it had not occurred to him that this might be difficult for Rossetti too. No doubt he wasn't any more enthusiastic about this marriage than Wufei.

"Shh ... it's all right." Trey leaned closer until his breath was hot against Wufei's cheek. Don't clam up on me now. We are to be wedded. Talk to me."

Wufei drank rapidly from his goblet, heedless of the fire in his throat. Trey's breath, spiced with rosemary and wine feathered along his cheek and the suddenly sensitive round of his earlobe -- as if a frission of nerves had lodged there. Despite the breeze blowing from the terrace Wufei was enveloped in an aureole of heat. Sweat pricked his scalp and he was feverish in a way that had nothing to do with the wine. He looked into the fringe of Trey's lashes and to his mortification an ache blossomed in his loins.

"Wh...what could we possibly have to speak about?"

"Plenty. For example, why do you not dress like this more often? It does far more for your looks than those robes."

Wufei's lips tightened. The joke was unnecessary. With his stature and coloring he knew how ludicrous he looked in the froth of silk and velvet. Wufei had no hopes of being dashing, but at least in his robes he was comfortable. He did not have to worry about looking the fool prancing around in garments better suited to his father's cushions. "I assure you I am well aware of the limitations of my 'looks' as you so kindly put it."

Trey was staring at him as though he'd suddenly sprouted wings and a tail. "Sweet, sweet, Wufei.... It's obvious you've been sorely neglected. Has no one ever told you how magnificent you are?"

"Don't." Wufei hunched his shoulders. "I am no woman to beguile with empty flattery."

"Empty flattery? Love, we need to do something to remedy your self-perception."

"I choose to be a realist, thank you. Not some fool hoping to be what he is not."

"And what is this reality? That you have the disposition of a priest?"

Wufei did not answer. He was all too familiar with this lecture.

"You are a desirable man, Wufei."

The goblet quivered beneath Wufei's palm. "This ... this is hardly a topic for polite conversation."

"Then shall we take it somwhere private?" Beneath the tablecloth, Trey's hand rested upon his knee. Wufei's stomach lurched and his head spun from wine drunk too quickly. Or maybe that was from Trey's thumb mapping the crease on the inside of his knee -- rubbing in an ever widening radius, causing sensation to zing from that locus of pressure -- shooting a burst of heat up his thighs. Wufei gasped. "Not ... not--"

"Ah, good. You two are already here."

"Father...!" Wufei wrenched himself away. He knew his face was flaming, but either his father didn't notice or he chose to ignore it. He took his seat and smiled.

"Beautiful evening isn't it?"

"Indeed," Trey rumbled, sounding perfectly collected. Wufei didn't dare look at him for fear of making a fool of himself again. His hand was still resting on Wufei's chair and seemed to have no intention of moving.

"How have you been enjoying Eires, Emperor Rossetti?

"Splendidly. I have seen your city but still have much to discover. Prince Wufei, however has been kind enough to offer to explore some of the more...," Trey traced the boundary where Wufei's shirt met the waistband of his pants, "intimate ... spots with me. Is that not so, Wufei?" His pupils were so dilated only a narrow rim of blue was visible around the core of black. Wufei felt the distinct brush of his fingers over his erection and he made a choked sound, fists clenching in his lap.

"Are you all right, son?"

"Fine," Wufei gritted. It was bad enough Rossetti had taken such ... abhorrent liberties with his person, but to do so in front of his father...! Wufei glared and Trey's gaze sidled over to him -- knowing. His mouth twitched and Wufei willed himself not to blush. How insufferable! And he would have to spend the rest of his days with this boor...? By the gods, how would he survive it? Wufei's lip bled under his teeth. To his relief, though, Rossetti's hand slipped from his chair and rested on the table.

"Good." King Zechs frowned. "I must admit a bit of surprise, but I'm glad the two of you are getting along so well."

Getting along well indeed. Wufei couldn't think of a marriage off to a more disastrous start. "Will Quatre be joining us?"

"I am expecting him and Trowa shortly. In fact ... I believe he is coming this way."

So soon! That meant-- Wufei struggled to keep his voice steady. "He is?"

His father nodded, resting his hands over his stomach like a man who had eaten a hearty meal. "Ah good, here he is."

"My apologies," Quatre hurried over to their table, managing to look both flustered and becoming all at once. Color was high in his cheeks and his hair, not long from his bath, curled lovingly around his head. Wufei saw more than a few nobles freeze in their places as his brother rushed by, their heads cocked towards him like hounds scenting the air. Even Trey seemed transfixed for a moment. Wufei glowered. "Where is Trowa?"

"Oh," Quatre looked up as he smoothed his napkin in his lap. He turned a delicate shade of pink and Wufei was convinced he heard a sigh waft above the crowd. "Trowa was ... detained. He'll be here in a bit."

"Humph." Wufei swallowed, drumming his fingers against his thigh. When Trowa slipped in a moment later, he knew there was no turning back.

"All right, now that everyone is here...." King Zechs stood and a wave of murmuring rippled through the crowd. The page who had been leaning against a column gnawing at his nails took his place at the dais and Wufei's heart pounded. Bile rose once again in his throat. In a moment of panic he turned to Trey for reassurance -- for some hope that he was not alone in this -- and their eyes met. Wufei saw the surprise on Rossetti's features just as he came to his senses. He dropped his head. What was he thinking? He would find no comfort there. He could only count on himself and pray it would be over soon.

"Lords and ladies of the court, may I have your attention please. His Majesty, King Zechs will now address you."

"Thank you, Arnelius." His father paused and another spate of murmuring traveled across the room. "No doubt you are all wondering why we requested your presence here this evening." King Zechs smiled, motioning for Wufei and Trey to stand. "I am pleased to announce an occasion of great joy in Eires. Tonight, we not only forge an ally -- but we gain a son. May I present, my beloved son, Prince Wufei -- and his betrothed Emperor Trey of Rossetti!"

What had been a murmur broke into a roar. Bodies pressed up against the dais, their upturned faces eager to devor any sign of weakness. Wufei heard a few snickers and riased his chin, but he could not help the smarting behind his eyes. He felt unspeakably small -- sacrificed to those laughing mouths.Trey raised his cup in a toast and Wufei follwed numbly. His father was saying something but Wufei only heard a garble melding into the voices of the crowd. He searched for something -- anything -- to focus on and found himself fascinated by the way Rossetti's hair glinted in the firelight, blazing in a bright, leonine halo around his head. As if sensing it, Trey brought the cup to his lips wetting them, his teeth gleaming as they parted to drink more fully. His throat worked, adam's apple bobbing as his gaze followed Wufei's body, promising things he did not understand.

Wufei's eyes closed. On his other side, his father gripped his shoulder. When Wufei looked up, King Zechs was beaming at him.

His smile was wide -- victorious.

*

Trey sighed after thanking yet another guest. He glanced over at Wufei who was silent beside him. Though he held his head high, the evening had clearly taken its toll. Wufei's shoulders were stiff and he was wan even beneath his dusky complexion. Most of all he appeared stunned, lips barely moving as he accepted each congratulations. He seemed so lost that Trey had the urge to take him in his lap and rock him like a child. He studied the vulnerable curve of Wufei's lips. This was the fearsome prince? How mistaken they were.

"Prince Wufei, You've found yourself quite a catch here."

"Lord Maxwell," Wufei's gaze flicked over to the stranger without interest.

Trey bowed, taking in the man's long braid and the rings glittering on his fingers. "I don't believe I've had the pleasure...?"

"Duo Maxwell -- and the pleasure is mine."

Wufei stirred as if from a deep slumber. "Lord Maxwell is Eires' prized soldier. He has won many battles for my father."

"Indeed?" Trey eyed the dagger notched in Maxwell's belt. "Few noblemen make good soldiers."

Duo grinned. "Ah my friend, but I was a soldier first. --And I've been told they make exemplary noblemen." His eyes twinkled in a way that made Trey laugh. It redeemed the Eirean court in his eyes considerably.

"Right you are, Lord Maxwell."

"Duo."

"Duo, will you be with us for the entire evening?"

He shook his head. " I'm afraid I can't," his lips spread as he peered over Trey's shoulder. "I'm hoping to have some luck of my own." Trey turned following his gaze, but he saw no one interest, just Heero brooding on the terrace. Puzzled, Trey cocked his head. "Well good luck to you then."

Maxwell winked. "I'm counting on it. Mind if I offer a word of advice?"

Trey spread his hands. "By all means...."

"Just between me and you -- soldier to soldier if you will. You might want to keep an eye on him."

"Who?"

Duo chuckled. "Looks like I'm not the only one who'll need some luck tonight." He kept laughing as he ambled off. "Nice talking tp you, Rossetti."

What the devil....? Trey pivoted, turning to Wufei. "Do you have any idea what--" He stifled a curse. Damn, damn, damn, damn, damn.

Wufei was gone.

*

Wufei closed the door behind him, careful not to make a sound. The fire in the grate had burned low, but when he bent to stir the chunks of log they glowed with renewed life. A pleasant crackling filled the room and the shadows retreated. The massive shelves along the walls were revealed, the spines of the books gleaming in their niches. A little cold, Wufei warmed his hands by the fire. Though the leaves had barely begun to turn, there had been a fierce wind on the south side of the gardens where Wufei had snuck past to get to the library. It had all become too much.... The noise, the laughter-- Wufei had to get away. For once he was grateful for Maxwell's untimely appearances. It had given him the opportunity he needed for his escape. And what better place to escape to....Not only was the library his favorite room, it was also private -- away from the main wing and the bustle of the party. He couldn't stay away too long, lest the guests became suspicious, but he could enjoy a small reprieve. He would rest a bit and in all the excitement, no one would think to come looking for him here.

Kicking off his shoes, Wufei pulled a book from the shelf and stretched out on the sofa. The light however, was too poor for him to read and he was afraid of lighting a lamp and notifying someone of his presence. It made no difference anyway. The words kept swimming before his eyes. Wufei rested his head on his arms and a few lonely tears wet his fingers before he scrubbed at his cheeks, angry at himself for succumbing to self-pity. "Pull yourself together, Wufei." he chided himself, "You cannot afford to fall to hysterics."

Wufei wrapped his arms around his knees with a sigh. The stockings itched his legs and he desperately wanted to take them off. Besides that, he must have drunk too much wine because his head throbbed. He should have known better. As Trowa so often teased him, he was never any good with alcohol. The room tilted before him and Wufei shook his head. He really did not feel very good. He had thought it was nervousness but ... Wufei pressed a hand to his neck. It seemed he might actually be developing a fever. Like he needed something else to add to his miseries.... Wufei blew a gust of air past his lips. Surely the gods were punishing him.

"You stubborn little creature. Do you know how long it took me to find you in here?"

Wufei shot to his feet. Trey was standing in the doorway with his arms folded across his chest and Wufei stared. He hadn't even heard the door open. He tried to parry with a smart retort of his own but failed, too shaken by Rossetti's sudden entrance. "What are you doing here?"

"Shouldn't I be asking you that?"

Wufei swallowed as Trey locked the door. His shirt-sleeves had been rolled up and the bright hairs on his forearms glinted as he stepped forward.

Wufei darted a nervous glance at the lock. He should have known Rossetti would not be satisfied unless he was miserable. Why hadn't he gone to his room? Then again, Wufei wouldn't put it past Trey to come hunting for him there too and the thought of the older man in his chamber did strange things to his stomach. No, better that Rossetti find him here.

"I don't know what you intend, but unless you have some reason for disturbing me I suggest you get out." Wufei folded his arms over chest. When Trey scarcely batted an eyelash, it was obvious he did not look look as fearsome as he hoped. Wufei bit his lip as Trey sauntered over to the sofa. Airiah, why him?

Rossetti sat and thumbed through the book Wufei had been reading. He set it on the table, his gaze drifting to Wufei's stockinged feet. "Wufei, why are you hiding in here?"

"I--I wasn't hiding!" Wufei blurted but even to his ears it didn't sound convincing.

"Of course not. Most grooms run away from their own engagement parties." Trey extended his hand. "Come."

Wufei's lip twisted. "I'm not that much of a fool."

"But one nonetheless, hmm? Why are you so convinced I will hurt you?"

"Why?" Wufei gave a brittle laugh. "You've done nothing but try to humiliate me. Earlier in the garden -- tonight at the table...." Wufei flushed at the memory. "Need I continue?"

Trey was quiet. The crackle and pop of the fire seemed explosive in the silence. Finally, he raised his eyes to Wufei. "Then I am the fool for mistreating something so precious."

"An admirable attempt, but sincerity isn't the same thing as a pretty turn of phrase." Wufei moved past Trey to gather his shoes.

"Wufei...." Trey's fingers circled his wrist.

"Release me."

"You are right: I willingly took advantage of you, knowing you were in a vulnerable position. I apologize. I can offer no excuse for my actions except to say that I am sorry."

Wufei was not moved. "You have made it quite clear what an amusing ... anomaly ... I am. Yet, I am not a toy to manipulate at will. Have your fun at someone else's expense. If it is a bed mate you seek I am sure there are many out there ....," Wufei jerked his thumb at the door, "willing to service you. I lay no claim to you. In fact, I would welcome another -- outlet -- for your frustrations."

"If I wanted a whore, I would have sought one a long time ago. You may have no desire to claim me, " Trey murmured ruefully, "but I find that I must have you, Prince Wufei."

Trey squeezed his other wrist and his shoes tumbled to the carpet. Wufei's voice rose, desperate. "What is it you want from me?"

"I'm not sure yet, myself, but I do know it is more than you propose."

"I have nothing to offer a man like you." Wufei shook his head, "No, not anyone."

"I refuse to believe that." Trey's eyes caressed him. "Wufei.... Have you ever been kissed?"

"Wh ...what?" Wufei's breath caught in his throat. He didn't like where this conversation was headed at all.

Trey didn't blink. "Well?"

"I don't see how that's any of your business."

"Is that a no then?" Trey's attention was fixed on the curve of his mouth and Wufei grimaced, pressing his lips together.

"Stop it."

Trey tugged his wrist and Wufei stumbled, bumping against his knees. "Hmm, definitely a no. I should have guessed."

"You said you wouldn't...."

"And I won't. This isn't about manipulation, Kala. I won't make that mistake again. It doesn't always have to be a battle between us." Trey gave another tug and Wufei teetered forward, sprawling in Rossetti's lap. He pushed at the hands trying to cradle him.

"What are you doing? I don't think--"

"Don't think. Just relax." Trey 's fingers settled on either side of Wufei's neck. He kneaded his shoulders and Wufei shuddered, feeling the slide of silk over skin. There was no pattern to Rossetti's caresses -- only that wherever they pressed they left Wufei trembling. He massaged Wufei's temples, the knot at the base of his neck, along his spine ... until warmth flowed through his limbs and he was like putty in Trey's large hands.... So malleable that it took him moment to register that Trey had lowered him to the sofa, a cushion propped carefully behind his head.

Wufei frowned. He tried to sit up but it was like wading through mud. "We ... we should get back. People will wonder what happened."

"Hush." Trey eased him back against the little pillow. "Stop trying to rationalize everything for once. Don't speak, don't think--" Cupping Wufei's face between his palms, Trey rested his forehead against his. "Don't think. I'm going to kiss you right now, Wufei and I just want you to feel.

Trey's eyes hinted at something hot and mysterious. Wufei did not know what it was -- only that it made his stomach clench even as it heated his blood with answering fire. Uncertainty shivered through him and Wufei closed his eyes against that paradoxical unknown. He wanted to pull away, to protest that this was silly and dangerous and undermined control. And yet, he was curious.... Even as he railed at himself for a weakling, he found he could not turn away. What would it feel like? Was this not another confirmation of his ineptitude? Why should he allow a man he despised to do this? Did he despise Trey? Why--

Trey's mouth slanted over his, effectively silencing the demons in his head. Yet, it was not the ravaging Wufei was expecting. Trey's lips were moist, his breath warm. He brushed against Wufei once ... twice, then retreated to suckle on his lower lip, taking the entirety of the soft fleshiness in his mouth. Wufei's eyes slid shut and he whimpered, hands clenching in Trey's shirt. When had his lips parted? Wufei did not know. He wanted to say something, but Trey began a delicate licking around the inside of his mouth. And then the hot squirm of his tongue invaded him, stroking along the roof of his palate ... even dipping into the well beneath his lip -- stealing the breath from him. Trey was making little guttural noises, pressing him into the cushions with his big body and Wufei's arms curved hesitantly around him. He returned the pressure of his lips and Rossetti's entire body clenched. He tore away, panting.

"Wufei-- Gods...."

Trey nipped his earlobe, moving down to mouth the soft spot beneath Wufei's jaw. His tongue, hot and slick, darted into the hollow of his collarbones and Wufei's head lolled against the cushions. "I--"

"Shhh," Trey drew him closer. His arm brushed his chest and Wufei froze, gasping at the hypersensitivity of his nipples. When had...?

Trey, however, seemed to understand. His fingers tangled in the criss-cross of lacings at his throat, inching down the neckline until Wufei's nipple peeked above the cloth, dark and engorged. An eager sound rumbled from Rossetti's chest and even in the flicker from the hearth Wufei saw the sudden expansion of his pupils. Trey stared at the rose-dark circle and Wufei turned away, prickling with embarrassment. "Trey please--"

"Hmm?" Nuzzling the cloth aside, Trey drew him into his mouth. The sensation was so sharp and so unexpected that Wufei moaned, heat spiralling between his legs. He felt himself hardening -- rising to greet the pleasure and his fingers clenched in Trey's hair, no longer sure if they wanted to push away or pull closer.

"That's it ...." Trey groaned, pressing a palm between his shoulder blades. "Gods ... I knew you would respond like this." Wufei barely heard him above the roar in his ears. It didn't matter in any case because Trey's mouth widened, deepening the suction around his nipple. His tongue rasped at him, flicking the tiny bud until Wufei thought he would burst. Lips grazing Wufei's chest as they moved to the other side, Trey nursed the left nipple as he had the right. All the while his fingers rubbed and plucked its already sensitized partner and Wufei cried out, pressing an arm over his eyes. Shamed that such a thing could bring him pleasure.... Surely only women were made for this...?

"Trey...." He pushed at Trey's shoulders and Rossetti protested around his morsel, groaning deep in his throat. Wufei arched his neck, whimpering. "Stop--"

Trey's chest heaved. For long moments he did not move. When he pulled away his hands were trembling. "What?"

"I...." Wufei's jaw clenched.

Trey's lips, reddened from his ministrations puckered in confusion. "I'm afraid you have to give me a bit more than that, Love."

"What you were doing...." Wufei frowned."Shouldn't it--? I shouldn't ... I don't think...." He winced at his own babbling. "Men aren't supposed to enjoy that." he said flatly.

Trey smiled "You mean you didn't enjoy it?" His voice was gentle.

Wufei stared into the fire, glowering. "I am no expert in these matters, but I am aware of certain facts. Women enjoy such ... stimulation. I am male. You need not ... exert ... yourself."

"You and your rules...." Trey sighed, stroking Wufei's hair. "Everybody is different, love. Yes, women tend to be more sensitive to such play, but that does not mean men cannot. Even among women there is great variation -- just as some men could care less for such teasing while the merest of touches drives others to distraction." Trey peered at Wufei. "It is not a question of manhood or womanhood, but the fact that each lover is unique -- special in his or her own way. Then, there are the lucky few who are made for passion -- for whom every touch is like fire...." Trey's smile burned along Wufei's body."Like yourself...."

"Lucky?" Wufei whispered. Why would anyone want such a humiliating vulnerability? Trey must be wrong. He would prefer to be much less ... responsive ... and far more stoic.

Trey nodded. "I knew it from the moment we met. This is not the place and we have not the time, but there are many things I want to share with you. Trey's thumb began a slow circling around his nipple, and Wufei crumpled against him, dazed. "It will be a discovery for both of us." He pressed his lips against Wufei's ear. "Let me come to your bed tonight. I promise to be very gentle."

Tonight? Panicked, Wufei struggled to rise above his haze of pleasure. "No!" Trey's palm slipped beneath the hem of his shirt and he groaned. "I can't--"

"All right, Love." Trey released Wufei, "But should you change your mind, my door is always open."

As far as Wufei was concerned, it was an invitation better not extended. The only time he would ever enter Trey's bedroom was if the man was not in it. Wufei sat up and took in the mortifying state of his undress. His shirt was rumpled, its laces straggling down his stomach and his braid was half undone. Wufei raised a hand to his face. "My glasses...."

Trey smiled and handed them to him from where they were folded on the table. "Here."

"Thanks." Searching for his hair tie Wufei found it was also missing. He raised an eyebrow at Trey.

Rossetti laughed. "Sorry, I'm not responsible for that one."

Wufei huffed. Wonderful. He tried re-doing the braid, but as expected, without the tie the heavy mass of his hair simply unraveled, lying oppressively over his shoulders . Wufei glared at Rossetti. "Now I have to go to my chambers to retrieve another tie."

Trey leaned back. There was an odd expression on his face as he watched Wufei. "If this is the result, then I can hardly mourn its loss."

Wufei could bet. No doubt he found great amusement from this entire situation. He picked up his shoes and turned to Trey. "I will return to the feast shortly." Wufei ducked his head. "Would you ... could you make excuses...?"

Trey rose, "Of course."

"Thank you." Wufei started towards the door when a wave of dizziness overcame him. He stumbled and Trey was immediately at his elbow.

"Are you all right?

Wufei nodded. He pressed a hand to his forehead, "Just ... just a little light-headed." Besides that tie, it might be a good idea to find Trowa before re-joining the feast. Maybe his friend would have something for this pounding in his head. Wufei brushed Trey's arm away. "I'm fine--truly."

Rossetti's eyes danced. "Are my kisses so potent then? I'm flattered."

It was confirmed. He hated Rossetti. Wufei discovered the one good thing about having his hair loose was that he could hide his flaming face behind it. "I ... I... must go...." Wufei didn't even bother to put on his shoes. He hurried out of the library without a second glance.

The wind had picked up strength and speed while he was inside and its sting was balm to Wufei's muddled senses as he weaved past the buildings. Mindful of his dishabille, he picked a circuitous path back to the palace, sheltered by a roof of beech trees. The thought alone of being spotted and questioned spurred him to a rapid pace. Hunching his shoulders against a particularly powerful gust Wufei plowed toward the kitchens.

Trey's warm gaze, however, lingered ... following him into the darkness.

*

Life was good. No, life was very, very good. Trey crossed his arms behind his head with a sigh. The evening had turned out to be far more than he expected. He recalled Wufei's scent ... the way he'd arched in his hands.... Trey groaned. Gods.

And still, it wasn't enough....

Dare he even hope for more? Wufei was delectable -- and more passionate than the best of Trey's fantasies. He was also the most conflicted individual Trey had ever met. Then again -- he noted to his chagrin -- he had probably caused a fair share of that conflict. Wufei was skittish, yes, but as the prince so bitterly reminded him, he had done little to put him at ease. Trey had seen the hurt in Wufei's eyes and he regretted it. Perhaps it was best this way after all. It seemed it might do him good to learn some patience -- no matter how tempting the object of his desires was.

Trey smiled. And If tonight was any example, it would be well worth the wait....

Making sure the fire had burned down sufficiently, Trey left the library and began heading towards the main hall. It was a lovely evening, even if the wind nipped a bit. He discovered a path amidst the manicured bushes and on a whim, followed it. After the intimacy shared with Wufei he was not in the least inclined to return to the party. Trey peered at the gray sun burning in the east. He could spend a little more time away before being missed....

He wondered if Wufei had made it to his chambers yet. A perverse part of Trey hoped that he wouldn't find that hair tie he was so desperate for. Wufei had no idea how fetching he looked with his hair tumbled about his shoulders like that. Loose and thick it beckoned a man's hands. It had taken all of Trey's control not to sink his fingers into the soft mass and kiss Wufei breathless. He wanted to see it wet, clinging to Wufei's skin in slick tendrils. He would--

"Ouch! Damn it." Trey rubbed his ankle as he tripped over something in the path. It rolled over, glinting in the moonlight. Had someone dropped a watch -- or a brooch? No, this was too small and too square. Hmm.... Trey squinted. Had he seen it somewhere before? He couldn't shake the feeling that it was familiar somehow.....

Ah well. Trey shook his head. Laughing to himself, he dusted his pants. The gods must be trying to tell him to cool off.

Walking over to the spot he had seen it roll in, Trey bent to retrieve the piece of jewellery.

And froze....

It was not jewellery at all -- but a buckle.... Trey turned the little mound over. A shoe. He forced himself to remain calm. It couldn't be.... It had to be a coincidence....His stomach churned. He pivoted -- and found the other side of Wufei's shoe tumbled in the grass.

What by the gods had happened! Trey recalled Wufei's stumble -- his insistence he was okay -- and cursed. He should have known better. Wufei was the last to admit to anything he perceived as weakness -- and Trey didn't doubt that asking for help was high up on that list. He swallowed, eyes darting about for some sign of his prince. He didn't have to look far. Trey gave a cry, his fists clenching as he spotted a bulky form not far ahead. There was no mistaking Wufei's pale shirt rippling in the breeze.

"Wufei!" Trey lunged forward closing the space between them with a speed he didn't know he possessed. Wufei was sprawled against the cobblestones, his hair fanning about him like a dark web. Trey pulled him into his arms and he moaned, the whites of his eyes rolling behind his eyelids. There was a bruise on his cheek where he had scraped it against the stones and his skin was hot, feverish.

"Wufei," Trey shook him. "Wufei ... Love, look at me."

Wufei's only response was the sudden clenching of his body and groan so deep Trey felt its vibration along his arms.

The blood pounded in Trey's temples until his head ached. This wasn't happening. He refused to let it. Not after tonight.... Not after everything they'd shared. He would not lose him.

Trey staggered to his feet, hugging Wufei to his chest.

He would not lose him.