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geekystudmuffinTitle: The Last Best Days
Author:![[livejournal.com profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/external/lj-userinfo.gif)
innerslytherin and severity_softly
Artist:tli
Pairing: Hotch/Rossi
Rating: NC-17
Word count: 147,800
Summary: Futurefic--Shortly before Dave turns sixty, he is diagnosed with a grade III brain tumor. He and Aaron have to come to terms with what this means for their relationship. Eventually the team has to help Aaron say goodbye.
Notes: Heavy angst. Lots of medical detail. Character death. This fic would not exist without the extensive help, support, encouragement, and hand-holding fromresolucidity, who served as our medical consultant throughout.
Master post
Chapter One
Later, Aaron realized that there had been a pattern of signs. He was a profiler; he should have realized things weren't quite normal. There had been a string of little incidents, things that meant nothing until you added them all together. But the first time he recognized it was the day he came home from the BAU and found Dave in bed at seven-thirty.
Dave had finished things earlier than he had, so it wasn't a surprise to find his car in the garage. But first there was no dinner prepared, which usually there was, when Dave left work ahead of him. Then Fuzzy came nosing around his empty dish and meowing for food. And the television wasn't on, but Dave wasn't in his office.
Finally Aaron went into the bedroom, and found the drapes pulled, the lights off, and his lover lying in bed with his head buried under the pillow. Aaron frowned.
"David?" he said quietly, going to sit on the edge of the bed.
Dave grunted, then rolled over. "I don't think I'm going to go in to work today."
"What?"
"I'm taking a personal day."
Aaron brushed a hand through Dave's hair. "You've already worked all day," he said. "I just got home."
"Huh. Time's'it?"
"Seven-thirty. In the evening. You just left work about an hour ago." Aaron kicked off his shoes and crawled up onto the bed, lying down next to Dave. "Are you feeling all right?"
Dave was silent for a moment, then sighed. "Just a little tired. I must have fallen asleep."
Aaron kissed his neck. "You didn't say anything earlier. Did something happen?"
"No, I just got home and..." Dave's shoulder shifted under Aaron's head. "I don't know, I was tired."
"You didn't feed Fuzzy."
"What is this, Twenty Questions?" Dave said, an edge to his voice. "I forgot."
Dave never forgot. Dave's memory was impressive; he could remember birthdays and anniversaries with far more precision than Aaron. But Aaron didn't say anything, just smoothed a hand down the front of Dave's pajamas.
"Are you hungry?" he asked after a while.
Dave grunted again. "Not really."
"Okay." Aaron kissed his forehead and sat up. "I'm going to go make myself something to eat. Let me know if you need anything."
Dave just rolled over onto his side.
Aaron went to heat up some leftovers and stared at the news. Nothing penetrated, though. Something had to be wrong. Dave never went to bed before ten, and normally Dave and Aaron had no trouble communicating. If Dave were angry at him, though, he'd certainly have said something.
When Aaron went to bed, Dave was already asleep, one arm draped over his eyes. He was snoring faintly, and Aaron paused, watching him. Their relationship was a comfortable one, though not devoid of passion. They complemented each other well, a true partnership, and sometimes Aaron almost thought he loved Dave too much. With a smile, Aaron finished undressing and climbed in bed, wrapping his arms around Dave and relaxing into sleep.
***
Dave seemed normal the next day, and when a brutal murder spree in South Dakota came to their attention that afternoon, Aaron put the incident out of his mind. Then when they were delivering their profile to the Sioux Falls PD, Dave faltered in the middle of a sentence.
"He's a loner. He probably has a military service record, but he received a dishonorable discharge. He doesn't get along well with others, is either single or divorced. In regards to his..." Dave paused, frowning. "In regards to..." He glanced over at Aaron, and Aaron could see the confusion in his eyes. Worried, Aaron took over.
"In regards to his education, he probably completed high school, but nothing more. He might have dropped out. He's had a hard time keeping a job, and is probably unemployed. He lives alone, or possibly with a single mother who belittles him."
Morgan took over, finishing up with the nature of his crimes and what he would do next. When the officers and detectives had filed out of the room, Aaron turned to Dave.
"What just happened?" he asked quietly.
Dave blinked at him. "I don't know, I just...the word completely escaped me." He shrugged. "Probably lack of sleep. We need to get this case wrapped up soon."
Aaron kept a close watch on Dave for the rest of the case, but Dave seemed okay after that strange lapse. It didn't stop his worry, of course, and when Reid came in to his office after the case closed, it only made it worse.
The team knew about their relationship after having been together so long now. Aaron had known they'd find out eventually. Any good profiler would, and he knew his team was made of the best profilers there were. Reid knocked on the open door of Aaron's office quietly, but didn't wait for an invitation to come in and shut it behind himself.
"Ah... can I talk to you?" he said.
Aaron raised his eyebrows and nodded. "You know I'm always available, Reid. What's on your mind?" He wasn't really sure he wanted to know what was on Reid's mind, though; whatever it was, he had a sinking feeling in his stomach that said it wasn't good.
It's didn't help that Reid looked uncomfortable as he crossed the room and sat in the chair opposite Aaron's desk, then picked at nothing at the hem of his cardigan for a moment. "Um, I don't know if it's really my place to say anything, but I--" He wasn't looking at Aaron. "It can't have escaped your notice that Dave isn't... ah..."
Aaron swallowed. Isn't quite right. Isn't acting like himself. Isn't... As Reid floundered to a stop, Aaron cleared his throat. "Isn't quite...himself lately," he said finally.
Spencer's lips tightened and pulled to the side, and he still didn't look up. "When we were working on the geographical profile, he left to get some coffee, and didn't come back until I found him in the conference room." Reid finally looked up. "What's wrong?"
Aaron rubbed his hand against his forehead and stared at the desktop. "I don't know." It hurt to admit that something was wrong with his lover and he didn't know what it was. He thought Dave respected him too much to keep things from him, but the fact was that he had no idea what would make Dave act like this. "He hasn't said anything to me," he said finally. "I didn't know about the coffee."
"There was no one else around," Spencer said, apparently not exactly getting the point that Aaron had meant Dave hadn't told him about it. "It could be stress," he added, then shifted awkwardly and looked away again. "It seems to be beyond the normal age-related symptoms of forgetfulness, though, and it's happening more and more often. He, ah... do you know if he has any family history of anything like Alzheimers?"
Aaron's eyes widened and he stared at Spencer for a moment, shocked at the blunt question. "I...don't think so," he said after a moment. "His father's nearly ninety and in good health. His mother's...Alzheimers? I was thinking maybe he just had something bothering him."
Spencer's eyebrows lifted and drew together, looking at little like he was starting to think this conversation had been a bad idea. "Maybe. I said it could be stress."
Oh God. Alzheimers. Aaron rubbed his forehead again and shoved the thought away. It couldn't be Alzheimers, Dave wasn't quite sixty yet. Getting closer, though, even if he hadn't started making noises about retiring again yet. "What age do they usually diagnose that? He isn't old enough for Alzheimers." He wished Spencer hadn't come in to talk to him at all.
"Mid sixties usually, but there's early-onset Alzheimers; it's just more rare, and I didn't mean that Dave had... I... I mean, there are a lot of less serious reasons he could be acting like this; low blood sugar, certain medications, depression..." Aaron wasn't sure if Spencer was backtracking, or just listing reasons.
Aaron sighed. "Can you think of any other instances something like this has happened?" he asked. "Things that might be affecting his job performance, anything that's affecting team dynamic?" If he could present it to Dave as a work-related concern, he'd be more likely to get Dave to talk to him. He hoped.
Spencer's lips parted and he sucked in a slow breath. "He's just..." He searched for the word, and when he finished, his voice dropped, sounding almost defeated. "Not himself." He looked up at Aaron again. "I was just worried." He shook his head. "Sorry."
Aaron pressed his lips together, then leaned across the desk to touch Spencer's shoulder. "Don't apologize," he said. "I appreciate that you're concerned about him. I'll talk to him." The team was a family, and he knew Spencer looked up to Dave. After a moment, his lips twisted wryly. "And once he's finished yelling at me, I'm sure he'll appreciate the concern too."
He was pleased when a smile that was somehow both nervous and relieved spread across Spencer's face at that. Spencer nodded and stood. "Okay," he said. "Thanks."
Aaron wasn't looking forward to the coming conversation at all. He and Dave had had their fair share of arguments in the years since they got together, and Aaron was used to Dave being the instigator of those. This time, though, he knew that no matter how delicately he approached this, he was going to be starting a fight.
He waited until dinner was finished and they were settled together on the couch. Dave was reading quietly while Aaron watched the television on low volume, his fingers stroking absently through Dave's hair. After a while, he had to admit to himself that he was putting this off, and the longer he did that, the harder it would be. He muted the TV. Dave made a curious noise and glanced up at it, then looked at Aaron.
"Tell me," Aaron said simply.
"Tell you what?" Dave asked. When he met Aaron's gaze, his own was honestly confused. "Were we talking about something earlier?"
Aaron sighed. "Tell me what's bothering you."
Dave shifted to look at him better. "Um...I don't think the Cubs are gonna have a good season this year. I kinda have a headache. I don't know whether to head up to Philly for an in-person consult on that Bacter case, or if I should just send them a write-up. Any clue what we should give Jack for his tenth birthday?"
"He's always said he wanted a guitar, every time he visits Sean. They make ones designed for kids." Dave really didn't realize what Aaron was asking. Aaron leaned in to kiss Dave softly.
"Mm, then he needs a guitar," Dave agreed. "Good. One less thing to worry about." He settled against Aaron and kissed him again. "What's bothering you?"
Aaron threaded his fingers into Dave's hair and got one more good kiss knowing it might be the last good one for the evening. He hummed into it, his fingers moving down Dave's spine, then he pulled back and murmured, "I'm worried about you."
"Worried about me?" Dave frowned, studying his face. He seemed to realize Aaron was serious, but it took a while longer for him to really react. "Hey, this isn't about the other day when I thought I'd been asleep longer than an hour, is it? Come on, everyone has things like that." He shifted back, his frown deepening. "There's nothing to worry about."
Aaron's lips thinned, and he closed his eyes, shaking his head before he looked back at Dave. "I think you know that's not true. If something's happened, you ought to know you can tell me, no matter what it is."
Dave tensed. "Nothing's happened, Aaron. I had a damn headache. Am I not allowed to get those once in a while?"
"Something is bothering you, Dave," Aaron insisted. "It's not just about the other night. It's about you floundering on the profile, forgetting to feed the cat, which you did again tonight, by the way, when you've never forgotten before. It's about you..." He hesitated, not sure he wanted to bring Spencer into this, but then decided to continue. "...disappearing on Reid when you were going over the geographical profile with him."
"Forgot to feed...You're arguing with me because I forgot to feed the cat." Dave glared at him, but a moment later he sighed and sort of deflated. "I'm just a little tired, that's all. I'm sorry I forgot about the cat. Maybe I need to take a couple of AL days. But nothing's wrong."
Aaron pinched the bridge of his nose. "Right, and you just avoided the two major concerns I just mentioned, and the fact that it's not just me who's worried."
"Wait, you mean Spencer's going around telling people I fucking disappeared on him? I got sidetracked. For Pete's sake, am I not allowed to have an off week? I'm fine."
"He came to my office privately because he was concerned. He cares about you," Aaron argued. "What sidetracked you?" He suddenly realized that Spencer hadn't told him what excuse Dave had given him for leaving or even what Dave was doing in the conference room.
Dave hesitated. "What...I just had a thought, that's all. I had something I wanted to look into." He frowned. "Then I lost track of time." For the first time, though, he didn't sound entirely sure of himself.
Aaron watched him. "You lost track of time," he repeated, his voice gentling. "What were you looking into?"
"Hell, I don't remember. That was...the other day." Dave frowned. "Look, what's your point? You want me to apologize to Spencer? I didn't do it on purpose, but I guess maybe I hurt his feelings."
"No, you didn't hurt his feelings; you worried him," Aaron said, frowning again.
Dave sat back, blinking. "Why was he worried? I just....I just got sidetracked, that's all." After a moment he got up and walked over to the window. "Did you feed Fuzzy? I just forgot."
"Yeah," Aaron said, watching Dave for a long moment. He wondered what it was going to take to make Dave admit something was wrong. He really didn't want to resort to yelling, but he supposed he would if he had to. He sighed and got off the couch, walking up behind Dave and wrapping his arms around him. He pressed his lips to Dave's neck. "Talk to me," he murmured, then tightened his arms. "Please. I'm worried."
There was silence for a long time, and Aaron was afraid he really was going to have to yell, but then Dave sighed and leaned back against him. "I don't know," he muttered finally.
"You don't know what's wrong, or whether you want to tell me?" Aaron murmured.
"I don't know what's fucking wrong, okay?" Dave flared, but he didn't pull away. "I can't remember why I went to the conference room. I don't know."
Aaron ran his hand over Dave's chest, trying to keep Dave calm, considering he was talking now. "And nothing's happened? You're not worrying about something? A case? Nothing?"
"I just told you everything I'm worried about. My biggest concern was what we were gonna buy your son for his birthday. I'm tired. A little worn out, maybe. That's all." Dave let his head rest back against Aaron's shoulder, though he still wasn't actually looking at Aaron.
"Our son," Aaron whispered, and kissed Dave's neck again.
"Our son," Dave corrected. "Dammit." He was silent for a minute. "I'm sorry I forgot about the cat."
"Stop apologizing about that. I'm not worried about your cat."
"Our cat," Dave said, and Aaron laughed.
"Our cat." He kissed Dave's jaw. "You've been getting a lot of headaches lately."
"Maybe my boss is an asshole who makes me work too hard," Dave suggested.
"Maybe," Aaron said. "But your lover tries to make it better when you let him."
Dave sighed. "What do you want from me, Aaron? What are you thinking right now?" At least the defensiveness had crept out of his voice.
Aaron shrugged. In the back of his head, Spencer's worries that it could be more serious than stress were gnawing on him, but he knew it couldn't be anything like that. Dave wasn't a kid anymore, but he was too young and his family was strong and healthy. "Maybe you should take some time off, see if it gets better."
"If that's what you want, I'll do it," Dave said. He turned in Aaron's arms and kissed him, then wrapped his arms around Aaron. "Probably all I need is a little R and R, a few rounds of golf, maybe a long walk on the beach." He nuzzled Aaron's neck. "Maybe I could convince my boss to take a day or two to walk on the beach with me."
Aaron smiled. The idea was wonderful, but he didn't like the idea of leaving the team with Strauss. "The team would be a little shorthanded."
"Just a day or two," Dave murmured. "We oughtta be coming out of rotation soon, let some other team be on call. I bet you could manage it." He nibbled at Aaron's neck. He knew too well how to try to convince Aaron to go along with him.
Aaron let out a breath, feeling himself relax against Dave. "I need a new pair of swim trunks," he murmured, and felt Dave smile against his skin. He wouldn't normally give in so quickly, but he was glad Dave was going to take some time to rest. "I love you."
"Mmm, I love you," Dave replied, trailing his lips up Aaron's jaw. "You weren't really interested in that show, were you?" he whispered. "Because I bet I can entertain you better than whoever that was."
"I don't even remember what I was watching," Aaron said, letting his eyes flutter shut and his fingers slide up under Dave's shirt. "Thank you for talking to me, and for taking a break." He tilted Dave's chin up and kissed him gently, then looked at him. "You would tell me if there was anything else, right?"
A hurt expression flashed across Dave's features, then was gone. "Aaron, I'm still not sure there's anything wrong in the first place, let alone anything else." He hooked his fingers in Aaron's belt loop. "But you know I'd talk to you before anyone."
"I know," Aaron said. He held in that Dave had obviously been trying to avoid telling him about this and hadn't even wanted to admit it when Aaron brought it up, but Aaron understood Dave enough to know that part of it was pride. And Dave was going to listen to him. Aaron kept telling himself that. "Mm, I wasn't trying to distract you from what you're doing."
"Trust me, you're a fantastic distraction." Dave grinned and kissed him. "You don't distract me often enough, these days." His hand slid down to cup Aaron's ass. "I was starting to think I wasn't sexy enough for you any more."
Aaron laughed. "Impossible. You'll always be sexy to me," he said, and kissed Dave again, his mouth hungrier than before. "Take me to bed, handsome."
"Gladly," Dave said. He curled his fingers around Aaron's belt and tugged him toward the bedroom, smirking faintly at him. "You know, you work too hard," he murmured, working Aaron's belt open. "Maybe you're the one who needs some...'relaxing' tonight."
"I'm not going to argue with you on that," Aaron said, returning Dave's smirk with an affectionate smile as they walking into the bedroom. "Have anything in mind?"
"How about you let me suck you. It's been at least a week since I've had my mouth on your cock." Dave's hand slid down the outside of Aaron's pants in a teasing touch.
Aaron let out a little anticipatory noise of want when Dave's words went straight to his cock. He tugged at Dave's shirt until Dave lifted his arms to let him pull it off, then traced his fingers over Dave's chest. "That sounds like a good plan to me."
"Yeah, I kinda thought it might." Dave unfastened Aaron's belt and slid it out of the belt loops, then turned them and guided Aaron back until the bed was pressed against the backs of his knees. "You deserve some relaxing," he murmured, and unzipped Aaron's fly. He pushed Aaron's pants and boxers down, then nudged Aaron down onto the bed. "God, you're sexy."
"Good to me," Aaron murmured. God, he'd been worried about Dave being too stressed, and now Dave was trying to relax him.
"Mm, need you," Dave replied. He knelt and grinned up at Aaron. "You're so fucking hot like this. I like sucking you when you're still wearing your tie."
Aaron couldn't help but grin. "I've gotten that impression." He usually forgot about his tie until bed time, though the suit coat came off when he got home, and his sleeves usually got rolled up. He sifted his fingers through Dave's hair, then let his eyes flutter shut when Dave nuzzled his cock.
Then warm lips ghosted along Aaron's shaft, just barely touching the skin. Dave breathed hot, moist air across him, teasing delightfully. Aaron groaned, letting his head drop back, though his fingers still stroked through Dave's hair. Finally Dave's lips closed around him, tongue stroking along hot skin.
"Ohh, Dave," Aaron breathed, still feeling slightly guilty that Dave was doing this when Aaron thought Dave needed it more. Aaron's fingers curled in Dave's hair when Dave let out a little moan, obviously enjoying this and sending a thrill through Aaron that all but erased his guilt. "Yes," he panted.
Dave hummed and stroked his palms up Aaron's thighs, sliding one hand down to massage his balls while the other just stroked Aaron's skin. Dave's tongue was wonderful, swirling around him and then pressing against him, the warm suction pulsing pleasure all through Aaron's body.
Aaron leaned back, bracing his arms against the mattress and moaned when Dave took him deeply, his lip nearly reaching the base of Aaron's cock. Aaron had to strain not to thrust after that, taking fistfuls of the comforter in his hands. "Want you to fuck me," he panted.
Dave groaned around his cock, his fingers massaging more firmly, then slipping further down to stroke the skin before Aaron's entrance. Aaron shifted down a little on the mattress and spread his legs wide, offering Dave easier access. Dave made another noise of desire, and Aaron knew how he must look in his shirt and tie, legs spread wide for Dave.
"Wonderful," he whispered, his hips jerking a little as pleasure started to build, the finger lightly circling his entrance pushing it along. "Always want you."
Dave took him deep again, then pulled back, sucking hard. Aaron could tell from the new urgency in Dave's mouth that his lover was getting impatient. Aaron's words had been designed to do that, of course, and Aaron's mouth curved in a tiny smile as Dave's tongue flicked along his slit. Dave gave him just a hint of teeth along the shaft, then soothed it away with his tongue, groaning with desire.
"Oh God, close," Aaron moaned, his body tingling. Dave knew damn well what he was doing to Aaron, and the second time there was a light scrape against him, Aaron arched and gasped. "Dave," he whimpered, then repeated the name again just as he felt his body start to flood with pleasure.
He felt more than heard Dave's noise of satisfaction, and that was all it took to push Aaron over the edge. He gave a wordless cry as he came, Dave's mouth still working to draw out his orgasm. When he was spent, Dave licked him clean and pulled off of him with a soft pop. "I love taking you apart like that," Dave murmured, crawling up onto the bed to kiss him.
"Mmm-hmm," Aaron replied, the taste of his own come on his tongue from the kiss. "Oh, Dave..."
"Sexy." Dave's hands slid up under Aaron's shirt, stroking his skin possessively. "You're so thoughtful, always taking care of everyone." He smiled and kissed Aaron's throat. "I love that you let me take care of you."
Aaron didn't feel like he could speak just yet. His heart was racing, so he just stroked his fingers through Dave's hair. After a few moment, he hummed quietly. "I like taking care of my family," he murmured, then opened his eyes to smile at Dave.
"I know." Dave kissed his temple and smiled back at him.
"Mmm," Aaron hummed, then wrapped his arms around Dave and slumped back into the mattress, pulling Dave with him. When Dave was pressed flush against him, Aaron could feel Dave's arousal against him, and he groaned quietly. "Like that," he whispered, rolling his hips up gently, even though he was almost over-sensitive now.
"Yeah?" Dave murmured. Aaron could hear the smirk in his voice, even though Dave's lips were ghosting across his jaw and up to his ear. "You feel good," he breathed, sending a shiver through Aaron. "So sexy."
Aaron made a little noise of pleasure, his fingers curling against Dave's back. "So're you." His hand slid down to cup Dave's ass. "What do you want?"
"Want to fuck you," Dave murmured, his voice a pleasant rumble in Aaron's ear. "Want to fuck you long and hard." He pressed his hips against Aaron's, pulling a whimper from both of them.
"Yes," Aaron panted, and moved to try to kick out of his pants and boxers, which were still down around his feet. "Please."
Dave chuckled and helped Aaron with the pants and boxers, but refused to let the shirt and tie go. "You're sexy letting me take you when you're still half-dressed," he said, his lips against Aaron's ear. One hand wandered down to massage Aaron's ass, and then Aaron heard the drawer open.
"You just like to think you've debauched me," Aaron said, sliding his leg up over Dave's to give Dave room.
"Damn right I do," Dave said. He nipped Aaron's jaw and pulled back to grin at him. His gaze was still focused on Aaron's face when his finger quested down to circle Aaron's entrance.
Aaron groaned and closed his eyes, drawing in a shaky breath as that sent a thrill through him. "Just fuck me," he murmured. If Dave wanted debauched, Aaron was more than willing to give it to him.
Dave made a hungry noise, sliding his finger inside. "What, no teasing first?" he murmured, seeking out Aaron's prostate and rubbing it. "You sure?"
Aaron gasped, arching, and then he automatically bore down against Dave's finger, a shock of arousal going through him. "Oh, God," he panted, Dave's finger circling inside of him as he felt his spent cock start to take an interest again.
"Mm, you like that," Dave said. Aaron could tell Dave was still watching him. "You're so wanton. It turns me on."
Aaron let out a breathless chuckle, then reached up and pulled at his tie, loosening it and pulling open the top button of his shirt. That seemed to be an invitation for Dave to suck at his throat. Aaron slid his fingers into Dave's hair, and Dave pushed a second finger inside, drawing a gasp, then a long moan, from Aaron.
"Yeah," Dave breathed. "Tell me how much you want it." He nibbled on Aaron's throat, then trailed kisses down to his collarbone.
"God, yes, I want it. Want you inside of me," Aaron breathed, then Dave's finger pressed his prostate more firmly and Aaron let out an almost-yelp.
"Please."
"Ooh, are you begging now?" Dave said. He licked Aaron's collarbone and then Aaron sucked in a breath as Dave added a third finger. "Begging is surprisingly sexy, in this situation." He lifted his head and grinned up at Aaron. "You want me to fuck you. Can't wait, can you?"
Aaron felt his lips curl. He was more than willing to beg for Dave, even if he doubted he would oblige anyone else like that. It was nice to know Dave wouldn't judge him for it. "Can't," he panted. He tugged gently at Dave's hair. "Please fuck me."
Dave made a growly noise and moved up to kiss him hard. "You ask so nicely," he said, his voice husky. His fingers slid away and a few moments later his cock was nudging at Aaron's entrance. "You want me to fuck you hard?"
"Yes," Aaron moaned, trying to push down on Dave's cock, but Dave kept pulling away just enough that he wasn't able to take Dave in without Dave's help. "Tease. Horrible tease."
"You like it," Dave said, smirking at him. He kissed Aaron hungrily and finally pressed inside, uttering a loud groan as he did.
"Little... too much," Aaron managed, then bit his lip at the feeling of Dave filling him deeply. "Yes," he whispered. He was rock hard again. "Fuck me."
Dave chuckled and waited only an instant before pulling back and thrusting hard. "God," he breathed. "You make me want so much."
Aaron only moaned, his fingers curling against Dave's back. Dave was amazing, and Aaron thought it was mutual. Aaron wanted so much of Dave; he wanted everything with Dave. "Again," he ordered.
Dave obeyed, gazing hungrily at him. "So damn sexy," he said. He set a slow, hard rhythm, his gaze eager on Aaron's face as they moved.
Dave's pace kept Aaron's body on edge, needing and wanting. Aaron slid his hands down to Dave's ass to feel him move, and found himself rocking his hips up to meet Dave's thrusts. "Mmm, touch me," he whimpered, kissing Dave slowly.
"Love touching you," Dave said when the kiss ended. He slipped his hand between them and curled his fingers firmly around Aaron. "You feel so good."
"Yes," Aaron whispered. "Harder. Love feeling you."
"God," Dave said. He did as he was told, giving everything Aaron wanted and taking all Aaron gave. Their relationship had never revolved around sex, but it was one of so many things that made Dave and Aaron perfect for each other. "Love you," Dave breathed. The expression on his face was a mixture of love and lust that gave Aaron thrills.
Aaron arched, letting the way Dave was driving into him send pleasure through his entire body, just barely managing to return the words Dave had just spoken. He slid his hand down and curled it around his cock to stroke, his fingers laced with Dave's.
Dave's movements were sure and demanding, and he made it very plain how much he enjoyed sex with Aaron. He was murmuring endearments as they moved together, but they very quickly fell by the wayside as their pleasure mounted. It wasn't long before Dave was gasping out that he was close, his hand moving jerkily on Aaron's cock.
"Yes," Aaron panted, tightening his leg over Dave's hip. "Come. I want to feel you."
Dave groaned, his eyes closing for a moment as he drove into Aaron again. Then he opened them again so he was watching Aaron when he came, showing Aaron all the passion that was reserved just for him.
Aaron closed his fingers in Dave's hair, pulling him down for a kiss and the heat flooded him. There couldn't really be anything wrong. Dave was so strong, so passionate when he was only focused on Aaron. It was stress.
The kiss drew on, and Dave's fingers curled around Aaron again, stroking demandingly. When he finally pulled back, he locked his gaze on Aaron's, watching him. "You're so sexy," he murmured. "So handsome and everything I want. I love you, Aaron."
"Love you," Aaron managed, but Dave was keeping his body humming, and Aaron was breathless. "Mmm, close," he panted.
"Good," Dave said. "Let me see you." His gaze was hot on Aaron's. "You're so sexy when you come."
Aaron closed his eyes and swore, then bit his lip as Dave drove him toward orgasm. He gasped Dave's name when it hit, arching off the bed while Dave stroked him to completion. "Oh, God," he moaned, pulling Dave in for a kiss, and feeling utterly spent after his second orgasm of the evening.
Dave laughed into the kiss. "You can call me Dave when we're at home," he murmured, brushing his nose against Aaron's cheek.
Aaron grinned lazily and slid his hand down to swat at Dave's ass.
Dave laughed again and shifted so he could lie down next to Aaron. "I didn't realize you're into kinky," he teased. "All this time and I'm still learning new things about you."
"Mmm, that wasn't intended to be sexual," Aaron teased. "You deserved it." He kissed Dave slowly, then breathed, "You're everything to me."
Dave smiled and pulled him closer. "Yes," he whispered. "The same is true for me."
***
Aaron managed to arrange a four-day weekend, and in just a few days, Dave and Aaron were ensconced in a nice hotel room, complete with ocean-view balcony, on Tybee Island off the coast of Georgia. Dave had promised that on the way home, they would stop by Haley's house to see Jack. They spent their first day doing just as Dave had requested--walking on the beach, ignoring most of the people they saw. They waded into the water when they felt like it, then sprawled on their towels in the sand. Dave seemed to relax, and Aaron knew he was relaxing. Dave seemed more like his old self, and Aaron realized he hadn't noticed until now how stressed out Dave had seemed.
"Aaron."
The sunlight was beating down on Aaron's closed eyelids, the heat seeming to press them closed. "Mmm?"
"Aaron. Hand me the sauce, would you?"
Aaron shielded his eyes from the sun and opened them. "The what?"
"That--that tube. The...shit. The sauce." Dave snapped his fingers and pointed at the sunblock.
Aaron frowned. "The sunblock?" he suggested, then reached for it and handed it over, watching Dave. "You okay?" he asked, once Dave had it in hand, and reached out to touch Dave's forearm.
"Huh? Yeah, I'm fine. Just couldn't think of the word." Dave squeezed some out and rubbed it over his arm, then glanced over at Aaron and waggled his eyebrows. "Want me to do your back?"
Aaron gave him a weak grin. "That sounds nice, actually." God, what was going on? Dave just couldn't think of the word during the profile on the last case too. It wasn't like him at all, and he was supposed to be relaxing. He was relaxed.
"Good. Roll over." Dave's hands were strong as he used the sunblock as an excuse to give Aaron a quick massage. "This was a good idea," he murmured, smoothing his hands over Aaron's skin. "Thanks for insisting I take some time off."
"Mmm," Aaron hummed, but he didn't say that he was suddenly worried that whatever was bothering Dave wasn't going away. They still had some time left on their vacation, and he really didn't want to fight. "Love you," he murmured. They didn't say it all that often--they knew without words--but lately he couldn't help it.
Dave's hands slid up to his shoulders, and then a brief kiss brushed against his ear. "I love you too," Dave whispered. "You're a good man, Aaron Hotchner. I got lucky when you decided you wanted me."
"You're not the only lucky one." It felt strange to be so affectionate in public, but there was no one they knew around, and he sincerely doubted that even if someone saw him across the beach that they would recognize buttoned-up Aaron Hotchner lying in the sand in swim trunks. He turned his head, cupping Dave's cheek, and Dave leaned in to kiss his lips.
"Mmm. You know, every time I start thinking about retiring again, I think about all the time I'd have to spend away from you." Dave grinned at him. "It's your fault I keep working." He winked, and Aaron knew he was just kidding. He settled back down on his towel, watching Aaron.
"You're going to be waiting a long time if you're waiting for me to retire," Aaron murmured, his eyelids drooping again. He sighed, trying not to think too much.
Dave laughed. "Don't worry, I know better." Aaron felt Dave's fingers settle against his arm, just enough for the contact. They lapsed into silence again, and after a while, Aaron could tell from Dave's breathing that he'd fallen asleep.
Aaron watched him for a while, his stomach feeling heavy the longer Dave was asleep, not talking to him, not reassuring him that he was okay. Eventually, though, he forced himself to close his eyes. Everything was fine. They were having a great time, and the sound of the ocean was soothing.
Aaron must have drifted off too, because he woke up to his back stinging. Apparently either his sunblock wasn't strong enough, or they'd been here too long. He lifted his arm to look at his watch, then remembered that Dave had insisted he not wear one while they were on vacation.
He wasn't sure whether to wake Dave or not, but they had talked about going in to Savannah for a nice dinner, and the sun's position made him think the afternoon was getting on. He reached over and stroked his fingers along Dave's cheek.
"Hmm?" Dave took a long breath, then opened his eyes and stretched. "Hey. Was I asleep long?"
"I don't know," Aaron said. "Someone thought it was a good idea not to worry about the time or keeping to a schedule. I'm not sure why I keep agreeing." He gave Dave a sleepy grin.
Dave grinned back. "Because you love me. And I'm very persuasive." He leered at Aaron, then sat up. "Mm, must've been a while, because I'm feeling a little tender."
"Me too," Aaron admitted, then pushed himself up off his stomach and onto his knees. "We should go in and rub aloe on each other," he suggested, his lips quirking to the side.
"Oh, I like that idea." Dave climbed to his feet with a groan. "Maybe I'm getting too old to spend afternoons sleeping in the sand," he said, working his shoulders and neck to get out the kinks. He paused and considered. "Naahh. You can never be too old for that."
"Maybe we'll get down early enough to get one of the hotel's beach chairs tomorrow," Aaron said. He stood and picked up their towels, shaking them off and reaching for the cooler they'd brought down. "I love you." God, he couldn't stop saying it.
Dave's eyebrows went up and he studied Aaron for a long moment, then came over and slid his arm around Aaron's waist. "I love you too," he murmured, and kissed him slowly. "Everything's all right, isn't it?"
Aaron sighed. "Yeah. Everything's fine." He didn't think Dave believed him, though.
"Okay." Dave's fingers curled around his. "Come on, let's go see about that aloe."
They went back up to their room, and showered together, washing the sand off each other and kissing, and God, it felt good. And that was how most of the rest of their vacation went, just relaxing and not worrying about anything. Dave seemed okay the rest of the time, so Aaron was able to go back to not thinking about the problem.
The last day of their trip, they headed to visit Jack, and when they pulled up outside the house, Jack was playing basketball by himself in the driveway. Aaron parked along the sidewalk and got out, and Jack beamed when he saw him. "Dad!"
"Hey," Aaron said, grinning. "What? Too big to give your old man a hug?" he asked as he walked up, and when Jack came to hug him, Aaron ruffled his hair.
"Hey, Dave," Jack said, smiling a little less brightly. He was finally getting to an age where he was starting to feel self-conscious about his father being with another man. Aaron knew it wasn't Jack, but that peer pressure was a huge factor at his age. Aaron had intended to talk to Jack about it until Dave had insisted that unless it got bad, it would probably be better to let Jack come around on his own.
"How's it going, buddy?" Dave gave him an easy grin. To his credit, he treated Jack no differently than he always had, and didn't seem to take offense at all. "Your mom inside?"
"Yeah, with Andrew," Jack said. He dribbled the basketball a few times.
Dave nodded. "I'm gonna go in and say hi. You two can shoot hoops without me." He knocked on the front door, then disappeared inside.
Jack bounced the ball a few more times. "Mom said you were coming today. Said you were on vacation." Without me, the implication seemed to be.
"Yeah," he said. Jack shot the ball, which went in the hoop easily, then passed it to Aaron. "Just a weekend. Dave needed a little break and convinced me to come with him." He shot and missed.
"Did you have fun?" Jack asked. He shot again and the ball bounced off the rim, so he chased the ball halfway down the drive. When he came back, Aaron marveled at how tall his son was getting. His hair, which was starting to darken up, had flopped down into his eyes. He was starting to look a little more like Aaron as he got older. It was sort of nice.
"I did," Aaron replied. "You know, school's more important than vacation. Maybe I can get some more time off over the summer, though." He wasn't sure he could, but he'd been too late for Jack's spring break this time.
"Yeah, maybe." Jack sounded casual, but then he looked up and grinned. "Tommy and his parents went to a big water park place up by where you live. You could take me there."
Aaron grinned, then laughed after a moment. "You just want to see me look ridiculous on one of those slides," he said, but then shook his head. "Sounds good." He nudged Jack's shoulder, then got down into a ready position to really play. "Hey, are you going to beat me at this or not?"
"I'm totally gonna stomp you!" Jack threatened, and they got down to business. Jack showed off all his moves, and Aaron was suitably impressed with his son's skill. Haley had been telling him lately that Jack had natural ability in sports, and Aaron was sure it wasn't just a parent's pride that made him agree.
Jack was actually ahead by several points when Dave, Haley, and Andrew came outside. Aaron gratefully called a time out and went over to say hello to his ex-wife and her husband. Fortunately everyone looked friendly. For the first couple of years that Aaron and Dave were together, Dave and Haley had butted heads quite often, but eventually they'd settled into a fairly comfortable relationship. It had helped when Haley met Andrew, who had made a real effort to become friendly with Aaron and was committed to encouraging Jack's sense of family to include his father and Dave as well as his mother and step-father.
"Hi," Haley said, kissing his cheek. "Ick, you're sweaty. I told you Jack's good at basketball."
"He's kicking my butt," Aaron said, grinning proudly. "There's a reason I went to law school," he joked, then wiped sweat off his forehead with the back of his arm.
"You know, I think Derek went to law school, too," Dave pointed out, "and he was a starting quarterback for two years." He grinned. "Hey, I thought we could all go out and get pizza or something, if Jack's up for it. My treat. What do you think, buddy?"
Jack shrugged. "Sure. Mom and Andrew are coming too?"
"If that's okay with you," Andrew said. "I'm kinda hungry, but if you'd rather hang out with your dad and Dave alone, that's okay too."
Jack shrugged again. "Doesn't matter."
Aaron couldn't tell if he meant that or not. Kids were sometimes a lot harder to read than unsubs. He reached out and messed up Jack's sweaty hair again. "We'll call it a draw, then."
"Heeeey, no fair!" Jack protested, frowning and raking his fingers through his hair, but when he saw his dad was kidding he smiled and chucked the ball at him a little harder than necessary. "Sore loser," he accused.
Everyone seemed to have a good time at the pizza place, and afterwards Jack decided he wanted to ride in Dave's two-seater, which he'd insisted they drive on vacation instead of Aaron's sensible car. Aaron wasn't sure if it was a good idea to have Dave and Jack riding together, but he shook his head when Dave offered to let him drive the car. He wasn't sure it was a good idea, but he also didn't want Jack to get the idea that Dave didn't want to spend time together. Dave was right--Jack would come around eventually--and Aaron didn't want anything to impede that.
He and Haley took the opportunity to discuss parenting issues, which was when Aaron learned that Jack's math grades were poor. Aaron agreed to pay for a tutor, and Haley gave him a copy of Jack's report card and let him know what week Jack was going to be at summer camp.
When they got back to the house, Dave and Jack were sitting on the front porch. Dave didn't look very happy, but Jack was chattering at him about something, and when they saw the others, Dave waved. They stood around in the yard for a while longer, and Jack showed Aaron his latest report card and was given the news that the math grade had to come up. Before long, it was time for Dave and Aaron to head out so they could get home at a reasonable hour.
Aaron waited until they were underway again, then glanced over at where Dave had his eyes closed in the passenger seat. "Everything okay?"
Dave shrugged. "I just hope he comes around someday. He's a great kid, and I don't like having this distance between us."
Aaron sighed, and reached over to close his hand around Dave's. "I know he loves you, even if he's questioning things right now," Aaron said quietly. "I could still talk to him, you know."
Dave twined his fingers with Aaron's. "Nah, he's smart, and I really do think he'll come around. I just... I dunno. Just feeling it more than usual today, I guess." He looked over at Aaron, smiling. "You're a great dad. I don't know if I tell you that often enough, but you are."
"Thank you," Aaron said. He kept to himself that he'd be a better dad if he was around more. He and Dave had had this argument a lot in the past, and Dave usually won, even if it was because it was something Aaron didn't want to fight about. "Did you see him play?" he asked, smiling and glancing over at Dave.
Dave grinned. "Yeah, we were watching from the living room. He'll be an NBA star before we know it. I don't know if I have a right to say it, but I'm pretty proud of the kid." He snorted. "I hear he needs Reid's help with his math grades, though."
"Yeah," Aaron said. "It's too bad he doesn't live closer, actually. Reid's getting a lot of practice with Henry; he'd probably be up to it."
"Especially since Jack's older than Henry." Dave yawned. "This has been a good trip, Aaron. Thanks for making me take some time off." He tightened his fingers on Aaron's. "Of course, I also always feel better when I know I've made you relax a little, too."
"I know," Aaron murmured. Honestly, he was ready to get back to work, but he'd had a good time, and he hated having to leave Jack. "You're good to me," he added, stroking his thumb over Dave's.
Author:
innerslytherin and severity_softlyArtist:
tliPairing: Hotch/Rossi
Rating: NC-17
Word count: 147,800
Summary: Futurefic--Shortly before Dave turns sixty, he is diagnosed with a grade III brain tumor. He and Aaron have to come to terms with what this means for their relationship. Eventually the team has to help Aaron say goodbye.
Notes: Heavy angst. Lots of medical detail. Character death. This fic would not exist without the extensive help, support, encouragement, and hand-holding from
resolucidity, who served as our medical consultant throughout.Master post
Chapter One
Later, Aaron realized that there had been a pattern of signs. He was a profiler; he should have realized things weren't quite normal. There had been a string of little incidents, things that meant nothing until you added them all together. But the first time he recognized it was the day he came home from the BAU and found Dave in bed at seven-thirty.
Dave had finished things earlier than he had, so it wasn't a surprise to find his car in the garage. But first there was no dinner prepared, which usually there was, when Dave left work ahead of him. Then Fuzzy came nosing around his empty dish and meowing for food. And the television wasn't on, but Dave wasn't in his office.
Finally Aaron went into the bedroom, and found the drapes pulled, the lights off, and his lover lying in bed with his head buried under the pillow. Aaron frowned.
"David?" he said quietly, going to sit on the edge of the bed.
Dave grunted, then rolled over. "I don't think I'm going to go in to work today."
"What?"
"I'm taking a personal day."
Aaron brushed a hand through Dave's hair. "You've already worked all day," he said. "I just got home."
"Huh. Time's'it?"
"Seven-thirty. In the evening. You just left work about an hour ago." Aaron kicked off his shoes and crawled up onto the bed, lying down next to Dave. "Are you feeling all right?"
Dave was silent for a moment, then sighed. "Just a little tired. I must have fallen asleep."
Aaron kissed his neck. "You didn't say anything earlier. Did something happen?"
"No, I just got home and..." Dave's shoulder shifted under Aaron's head. "I don't know, I was tired."
"You didn't feed Fuzzy."
"What is this, Twenty Questions?" Dave said, an edge to his voice. "I forgot."
Dave never forgot. Dave's memory was impressive; he could remember birthdays and anniversaries with far more precision than Aaron. But Aaron didn't say anything, just smoothed a hand down the front of Dave's pajamas.
"Are you hungry?" he asked after a while.
Dave grunted again. "Not really."
"Okay." Aaron kissed his forehead and sat up. "I'm going to go make myself something to eat. Let me know if you need anything."
Dave just rolled over onto his side.
Aaron went to heat up some leftovers and stared at the news. Nothing penetrated, though. Something had to be wrong. Dave never went to bed before ten, and normally Dave and Aaron had no trouble communicating. If Dave were angry at him, though, he'd certainly have said something.
When Aaron went to bed, Dave was already asleep, one arm draped over his eyes. He was snoring faintly, and Aaron paused, watching him. Their relationship was a comfortable one, though not devoid of passion. They complemented each other well, a true partnership, and sometimes Aaron almost thought he loved Dave too much. With a smile, Aaron finished undressing and climbed in bed, wrapping his arms around Dave and relaxing into sleep.
***
Dave seemed normal the next day, and when a brutal murder spree in South Dakota came to their attention that afternoon, Aaron put the incident out of his mind. Then when they were delivering their profile to the Sioux Falls PD, Dave faltered in the middle of a sentence.
"He's a loner. He probably has a military service record, but he received a dishonorable discharge. He doesn't get along well with others, is either single or divorced. In regards to his..." Dave paused, frowning. "In regards to..." He glanced over at Aaron, and Aaron could see the confusion in his eyes. Worried, Aaron took over.
"In regards to his education, he probably completed high school, but nothing more. He might have dropped out. He's had a hard time keeping a job, and is probably unemployed. He lives alone, or possibly with a single mother who belittles him."
Morgan took over, finishing up with the nature of his crimes and what he would do next. When the officers and detectives had filed out of the room, Aaron turned to Dave.
"What just happened?" he asked quietly.
Dave blinked at him. "I don't know, I just...the word completely escaped me." He shrugged. "Probably lack of sleep. We need to get this case wrapped up soon."
Aaron kept a close watch on Dave for the rest of the case, but Dave seemed okay after that strange lapse. It didn't stop his worry, of course, and when Reid came in to his office after the case closed, it only made it worse.
The team knew about their relationship after having been together so long now. Aaron had known they'd find out eventually. Any good profiler would, and he knew his team was made of the best profilers there were. Reid knocked on the open door of Aaron's office quietly, but didn't wait for an invitation to come in and shut it behind himself.
"Ah... can I talk to you?" he said.
Aaron raised his eyebrows and nodded. "You know I'm always available, Reid. What's on your mind?" He wasn't really sure he wanted to know what was on Reid's mind, though; whatever it was, he had a sinking feeling in his stomach that said it wasn't good.
It's didn't help that Reid looked uncomfortable as he crossed the room and sat in the chair opposite Aaron's desk, then picked at nothing at the hem of his cardigan for a moment. "Um, I don't know if it's really my place to say anything, but I--" He wasn't looking at Aaron. "It can't have escaped your notice that Dave isn't... ah..."
Aaron swallowed. Isn't quite right. Isn't acting like himself. Isn't... As Reid floundered to a stop, Aaron cleared his throat. "Isn't quite...himself lately," he said finally.
Spencer's lips tightened and pulled to the side, and he still didn't look up. "When we were working on the geographical profile, he left to get some coffee, and didn't come back until I found him in the conference room." Reid finally looked up. "What's wrong?"
Aaron rubbed his hand against his forehead and stared at the desktop. "I don't know." It hurt to admit that something was wrong with his lover and he didn't know what it was. He thought Dave respected him too much to keep things from him, but the fact was that he had no idea what would make Dave act like this. "He hasn't said anything to me," he said finally. "I didn't know about the coffee."
"There was no one else around," Spencer said, apparently not exactly getting the point that Aaron had meant Dave hadn't told him about it. "It could be stress," he added, then shifted awkwardly and looked away again. "It seems to be beyond the normal age-related symptoms of forgetfulness, though, and it's happening more and more often. He, ah... do you know if he has any family history of anything like Alzheimers?"
Aaron's eyes widened and he stared at Spencer for a moment, shocked at the blunt question. "I...don't think so," he said after a moment. "His father's nearly ninety and in good health. His mother's...Alzheimers? I was thinking maybe he just had something bothering him."
Spencer's eyebrows lifted and drew together, looking at little like he was starting to think this conversation had been a bad idea. "Maybe. I said it could be stress."
Oh God. Alzheimers. Aaron rubbed his forehead again and shoved the thought away. It couldn't be Alzheimers, Dave wasn't quite sixty yet. Getting closer, though, even if he hadn't started making noises about retiring again yet. "What age do they usually diagnose that? He isn't old enough for Alzheimers." He wished Spencer hadn't come in to talk to him at all.
"Mid sixties usually, but there's early-onset Alzheimers; it's just more rare, and I didn't mean that Dave had... I... I mean, there are a lot of less serious reasons he could be acting like this; low blood sugar, certain medications, depression..." Aaron wasn't sure if Spencer was backtracking, or just listing reasons.
Aaron sighed. "Can you think of any other instances something like this has happened?" he asked. "Things that might be affecting his job performance, anything that's affecting team dynamic?" If he could present it to Dave as a work-related concern, he'd be more likely to get Dave to talk to him. He hoped.
Spencer's lips parted and he sucked in a slow breath. "He's just..." He searched for the word, and when he finished, his voice dropped, sounding almost defeated. "Not himself." He looked up at Aaron again. "I was just worried." He shook his head. "Sorry."
Aaron pressed his lips together, then leaned across the desk to touch Spencer's shoulder. "Don't apologize," he said. "I appreciate that you're concerned about him. I'll talk to him." The team was a family, and he knew Spencer looked up to Dave. After a moment, his lips twisted wryly. "And once he's finished yelling at me, I'm sure he'll appreciate the concern too."
He was pleased when a smile that was somehow both nervous and relieved spread across Spencer's face at that. Spencer nodded and stood. "Okay," he said. "Thanks."
Aaron wasn't looking forward to the coming conversation at all. He and Dave had had their fair share of arguments in the years since they got together, and Aaron was used to Dave being the instigator of those. This time, though, he knew that no matter how delicately he approached this, he was going to be starting a fight.
He waited until dinner was finished and they were settled together on the couch. Dave was reading quietly while Aaron watched the television on low volume, his fingers stroking absently through Dave's hair. After a while, he had to admit to himself that he was putting this off, and the longer he did that, the harder it would be. He muted the TV. Dave made a curious noise and glanced up at it, then looked at Aaron.
"Tell me," Aaron said simply.
"Tell you what?" Dave asked. When he met Aaron's gaze, his own was honestly confused. "Were we talking about something earlier?"
Aaron sighed. "Tell me what's bothering you."
Dave shifted to look at him better. "Um...I don't think the Cubs are gonna have a good season this year. I kinda have a headache. I don't know whether to head up to Philly for an in-person consult on that Bacter case, or if I should just send them a write-up. Any clue what we should give Jack for his tenth birthday?"
"He's always said he wanted a guitar, every time he visits Sean. They make ones designed for kids." Dave really didn't realize what Aaron was asking. Aaron leaned in to kiss Dave softly.
"Mm, then he needs a guitar," Dave agreed. "Good. One less thing to worry about." He settled against Aaron and kissed him again. "What's bothering you?"
Aaron threaded his fingers into Dave's hair and got one more good kiss knowing it might be the last good one for the evening. He hummed into it, his fingers moving down Dave's spine, then he pulled back and murmured, "I'm worried about you."
"Worried about me?" Dave frowned, studying his face. He seemed to realize Aaron was serious, but it took a while longer for him to really react. "Hey, this isn't about the other day when I thought I'd been asleep longer than an hour, is it? Come on, everyone has things like that." He shifted back, his frown deepening. "There's nothing to worry about."
Aaron's lips thinned, and he closed his eyes, shaking his head before he looked back at Dave. "I think you know that's not true. If something's happened, you ought to know you can tell me, no matter what it is."
Dave tensed. "Nothing's happened, Aaron. I had a damn headache. Am I not allowed to get those once in a while?"
"Something is bothering you, Dave," Aaron insisted. "It's not just about the other night. It's about you floundering on the profile, forgetting to feed the cat, which you did again tonight, by the way, when you've never forgotten before. It's about you..." He hesitated, not sure he wanted to bring Spencer into this, but then decided to continue. "...disappearing on Reid when you were going over the geographical profile with him."
"Forgot to feed...You're arguing with me because I forgot to feed the cat." Dave glared at him, but a moment later he sighed and sort of deflated. "I'm just a little tired, that's all. I'm sorry I forgot about the cat. Maybe I need to take a couple of AL days. But nothing's wrong."
Aaron pinched the bridge of his nose. "Right, and you just avoided the two major concerns I just mentioned, and the fact that it's not just me who's worried."
"Wait, you mean Spencer's going around telling people I fucking disappeared on him? I got sidetracked. For Pete's sake, am I not allowed to have an off week? I'm fine."
"He came to my office privately because he was concerned. He cares about you," Aaron argued. "What sidetracked you?" He suddenly realized that Spencer hadn't told him what excuse Dave had given him for leaving or even what Dave was doing in the conference room.
Dave hesitated. "What...I just had a thought, that's all. I had something I wanted to look into." He frowned. "Then I lost track of time." For the first time, though, he didn't sound entirely sure of himself.
Aaron watched him. "You lost track of time," he repeated, his voice gentling. "What were you looking into?"
"Hell, I don't remember. That was...the other day." Dave frowned. "Look, what's your point? You want me to apologize to Spencer? I didn't do it on purpose, but I guess maybe I hurt his feelings."
"No, you didn't hurt his feelings; you worried him," Aaron said, frowning again.
Dave sat back, blinking. "Why was he worried? I just....I just got sidetracked, that's all." After a moment he got up and walked over to the window. "Did you feed Fuzzy? I just forgot."
"Yeah," Aaron said, watching Dave for a long moment. He wondered what it was going to take to make Dave admit something was wrong. He really didn't want to resort to yelling, but he supposed he would if he had to. He sighed and got off the couch, walking up behind Dave and wrapping his arms around him. He pressed his lips to Dave's neck. "Talk to me," he murmured, then tightened his arms. "Please. I'm worried."
There was silence for a long time, and Aaron was afraid he really was going to have to yell, but then Dave sighed and leaned back against him. "I don't know," he muttered finally.
"You don't know what's wrong, or whether you want to tell me?" Aaron murmured.
"I don't know what's fucking wrong, okay?" Dave flared, but he didn't pull away. "I can't remember why I went to the conference room. I don't know."
Aaron ran his hand over Dave's chest, trying to keep Dave calm, considering he was talking now. "And nothing's happened? You're not worrying about something? A case? Nothing?"
"I just told you everything I'm worried about. My biggest concern was what we were gonna buy your son for his birthday. I'm tired. A little worn out, maybe. That's all." Dave let his head rest back against Aaron's shoulder, though he still wasn't actually looking at Aaron.
"Our son," Aaron whispered, and kissed Dave's neck again.
"Our son," Dave corrected. "Dammit." He was silent for a minute. "I'm sorry I forgot about the cat."
"Stop apologizing about that. I'm not worried about your cat."
"Our cat," Dave said, and Aaron laughed.
"Our cat." He kissed Dave's jaw. "You've been getting a lot of headaches lately."
"Maybe my boss is an asshole who makes me work too hard," Dave suggested.
"Maybe," Aaron said. "But your lover tries to make it better when you let him."
Dave sighed. "What do you want from me, Aaron? What are you thinking right now?" At least the defensiveness had crept out of his voice.
Aaron shrugged. In the back of his head, Spencer's worries that it could be more serious than stress were gnawing on him, but he knew it couldn't be anything like that. Dave wasn't a kid anymore, but he was too young and his family was strong and healthy. "Maybe you should take some time off, see if it gets better."
"If that's what you want, I'll do it," Dave said. He turned in Aaron's arms and kissed him, then wrapped his arms around Aaron. "Probably all I need is a little R and R, a few rounds of golf, maybe a long walk on the beach." He nuzzled Aaron's neck. "Maybe I could convince my boss to take a day or two to walk on the beach with me."
Aaron smiled. The idea was wonderful, but he didn't like the idea of leaving the team with Strauss. "The team would be a little shorthanded."
"Just a day or two," Dave murmured. "We oughtta be coming out of rotation soon, let some other team be on call. I bet you could manage it." He nibbled at Aaron's neck. He knew too well how to try to convince Aaron to go along with him.
Aaron let out a breath, feeling himself relax against Dave. "I need a new pair of swim trunks," he murmured, and felt Dave smile against his skin. He wouldn't normally give in so quickly, but he was glad Dave was going to take some time to rest. "I love you."
"Mmm, I love you," Dave replied, trailing his lips up Aaron's jaw. "You weren't really interested in that show, were you?" he whispered. "Because I bet I can entertain you better than whoever that was."
"I don't even remember what I was watching," Aaron said, letting his eyes flutter shut and his fingers slide up under Dave's shirt. "Thank you for talking to me, and for taking a break." He tilted Dave's chin up and kissed him gently, then looked at him. "You would tell me if there was anything else, right?"
A hurt expression flashed across Dave's features, then was gone. "Aaron, I'm still not sure there's anything wrong in the first place, let alone anything else." He hooked his fingers in Aaron's belt loop. "But you know I'd talk to you before anyone."
"I know," Aaron said. He held in that Dave had obviously been trying to avoid telling him about this and hadn't even wanted to admit it when Aaron brought it up, but Aaron understood Dave enough to know that part of it was pride. And Dave was going to listen to him. Aaron kept telling himself that. "Mm, I wasn't trying to distract you from what you're doing."
"Trust me, you're a fantastic distraction." Dave grinned and kissed him. "You don't distract me often enough, these days." His hand slid down to cup Aaron's ass. "I was starting to think I wasn't sexy enough for you any more."
Aaron laughed. "Impossible. You'll always be sexy to me," he said, and kissed Dave again, his mouth hungrier than before. "Take me to bed, handsome."
"Gladly," Dave said. He curled his fingers around Aaron's belt and tugged him toward the bedroom, smirking faintly at him. "You know, you work too hard," he murmured, working Aaron's belt open. "Maybe you're the one who needs some...'relaxing' tonight."
"I'm not going to argue with you on that," Aaron said, returning Dave's smirk with an affectionate smile as they walking into the bedroom. "Have anything in mind?"
"How about you let me suck you. It's been at least a week since I've had my mouth on your cock." Dave's hand slid down the outside of Aaron's pants in a teasing touch.
Aaron let out a little anticipatory noise of want when Dave's words went straight to his cock. He tugged at Dave's shirt until Dave lifted his arms to let him pull it off, then traced his fingers over Dave's chest. "That sounds like a good plan to me."
"Yeah, I kinda thought it might." Dave unfastened Aaron's belt and slid it out of the belt loops, then turned them and guided Aaron back until the bed was pressed against the backs of his knees. "You deserve some relaxing," he murmured, and unzipped Aaron's fly. He pushed Aaron's pants and boxers down, then nudged Aaron down onto the bed. "God, you're sexy."
"Good to me," Aaron murmured. God, he'd been worried about Dave being too stressed, and now Dave was trying to relax him.
"Mm, need you," Dave replied. He knelt and grinned up at Aaron. "You're so fucking hot like this. I like sucking you when you're still wearing your tie."
Aaron couldn't help but grin. "I've gotten that impression." He usually forgot about his tie until bed time, though the suit coat came off when he got home, and his sleeves usually got rolled up. He sifted his fingers through Dave's hair, then let his eyes flutter shut when Dave nuzzled his cock.
Then warm lips ghosted along Aaron's shaft, just barely touching the skin. Dave breathed hot, moist air across him, teasing delightfully. Aaron groaned, letting his head drop back, though his fingers still stroked through Dave's hair. Finally Dave's lips closed around him, tongue stroking along hot skin.
"Ohh, Dave," Aaron breathed, still feeling slightly guilty that Dave was doing this when Aaron thought Dave needed it more. Aaron's fingers curled in Dave's hair when Dave let out a little moan, obviously enjoying this and sending a thrill through Aaron that all but erased his guilt. "Yes," he panted.
Dave hummed and stroked his palms up Aaron's thighs, sliding one hand down to massage his balls while the other just stroked Aaron's skin. Dave's tongue was wonderful, swirling around him and then pressing against him, the warm suction pulsing pleasure all through Aaron's body.
Aaron leaned back, bracing his arms against the mattress and moaned when Dave took him deeply, his lip nearly reaching the base of Aaron's cock. Aaron had to strain not to thrust after that, taking fistfuls of the comforter in his hands. "Want you to fuck me," he panted.
Dave groaned around his cock, his fingers massaging more firmly, then slipping further down to stroke the skin before Aaron's entrance. Aaron shifted down a little on the mattress and spread his legs wide, offering Dave easier access. Dave made another noise of desire, and Aaron knew how he must look in his shirt and tie, legs spread wide for Dave.
"Wonderful," he whispered, his hips jerking a little as pleasure started to build, the finger lightly circling his entrance pushing it along. "Always want you."
Dave took him deep again, then pulled back, sucking hard. Aaron could tell from the new urgency in Dave's mouth that his lover was getting impatient. Aaron's words had been designed to do that, of course, and Aaron's mouth curved in a tiny smile as Dave's tongue flicked along his slit. Dave gave him just a hint of teeth along the shaft, then soothed it away with his tongue, groaning with desire.
"Oh God, close," Aaron moaned, his body tingling. Dave knew damn well what he was doing to Aaron, and the second time there was a light scrape against him, Aaron arched and gasped. "Dave," he whimpered, then repeated the name again just as he felt his body start to flood with pleasure.
He felt more than heard Dave's noise of satisfaction, and that was all it took to push Aaron over the edge. He gave a wordless cry as he came, Dave's mouth still working to draw out his orgasm. When he was spent, Dave licked him clean and pulled off of him with a soft pop. "I love taking you apart like that," Dave murmured, crawling up onto the bed to kiss him.
"Mmm-hmm," Aaron replied, the taste of his own come on his tongue from the kiss. "Oh, Dave..."
"Sexy." Dave's hands slid up under Aaron's shirt, stroking his skin possessively. "You're so thoughtful, always taking care of everyone." He smiled and kissed Aaron's throat. "I love that you let me take care of you."
Aaron didn't feel like he could speak just yet. His heart was racing, so he just stroked his fingers through Dave's hair. After a few moment, he hummed quietly. "I like taking care of my family," he murmured, then opened his eyes to smile at Dave.
"I know." Dave kissed his temple and smiled back at him.
"Mmm," Aaron hummed, then wrapped his arms around Dave and slumped back into the mattress, pulling Dave with him. When Dave was pressed flush against him, Aaron could feel Dave's arousal against him, and he groaned quietly. "Like that," he whispered, rolling his hips up gently, even though he was almost over-sensitive now.
"Yeah?" Dave murmured. Aaron could hear the smirk in his voice, even though Dave's lips were ghosting across his jaw and up to his ear. "You feel good," he breathed, sending a shiver through Aaron. "So sexy."
Aaron made a little noise of pleasure, his fingers curling against Dave's back. "So're you." His hand slid down to cup Dave's ass. "What do you want?"
"Want to fuck you," Dave murmured, his voice a pleasant rumble in Aaron's ear. "Want to fuck you long and hard." He pressed his hips against Aaron's, pulling a whimper from both of them.
"Yes," Aaron panted, and moved to try to kick out of his pants and boxers, which were still down around his feet. "Please."
Dave chuckled and helped Aaron with the pants and boxers, but refused to let the shirt and tie go. "You're sexy letting me take you when you're still half-dressed," he said, his lips against Aaron's ear. One hand wandered down to massage Aaron's ass, and then Aaron heard the drawer open.
"You just like to think you've debauched me," Aaron said, sliding his leg up over Dave's to give Dave room.
"Damn right I do," Dave said. He nipped Aaron's jaw and pulled back to grin at him. His gaze was still focused on Aaron's face when his finger quested down to circle Aaron's entrance.
Aaron groaned and closed his eyes, drawing in a shaky breath as that sent a thrill through him. "Just fuck me," he murmured. If Dave wanted debauched, Aaron was more than willing to give it to him.
Dave made a hungry noise, sliding his finger inside. "What, no teasing first?" he murmured, seeking out Aaron's prostate and rubbing it. "You sure?"
Aaron gasped, arching, and then he automatically bore down against Dave's finger, a shock of arousal going through him. "Oh, God," he panted, Dave's finger circling inside of him as he felt his spent cock start to take an interest again.
"Mm, you like that," Dave said. Aaron could tell Dave was still watching him. "You're so wanton. It turns me on."
Aaron let out a breathless chuckle, then reached up and pulled at his tie, loosening it and pulling open the top button of his shirt. That seemed to be an invitation for Dave to suck at his throat. Aaron slid his fingers into Dave's hair, and Dave pushed a second finger inside, drawing a gasp, then a long moan, from Aaron.
"Yeah," Dave breathed. "Tell me how much you want it." He nibbled on Aaron's throat, then trailed kisses down to his collarbone.
"God, yes, I want it. Want you inside of me," Aaron breathed, then Dave's finger pressed his prostate more firmly and Aaron let out an almost-yelp.
"Please."
"Ooh, are you begging now?" Dave said. He licked Aaron's collarbone and then Aaron sucked in a breath as Dave added a third finger. "Begging is surprisingly sexy, in this situation." He lifted his head and grinned up at Aaron. "You want me to fuck you. Can't wait, can you?"
Aaron felt his lips curl. He was more than willing to beg for Dave, even if he doubted he would oblige anyone else like that. It was nice to know Dave wouldn't judge him for it. "Can't," he panted. He tugged gently at Dave's hair. "Please fuck me."
Dave made a growly noise and moved up to kiss him hard. "You ask so nicely," he said, his voice husky. His fingers slid away and a few moments later his cock was nudging at Aaron's entrance. "You want me to fuck you hard?"
"Yes," Aaron moaned, trying to push down on Dave's cock, but Dave kept pulling away just enough that he wasn't able to take Dave in without Dave's help. "Tease. Horrible tease."
"You like it," Dave said, smirking at him. He kissed Aaron hungrily and finally pressed inside, uttering a loud groan as he did.
"Little... too much," Aaron managed, then bit his lip at the feeling of Dave filling him deeply. "Yes," he whispered. He was rock hard again. "Fuck me."
Dave chuckled and waited only an instant before pulling back and thrusting hard. "God," he breathed. "You make me want so much."
Aaron only moaned, his fingers curling against Dave's back. Dave was amazing, and Aaron thought it was mutual. Aaron wanted so much of Dave; he wanted everything with Dave. "Again," he ordered.
Dave obeyed, gazing hungrily at him. "So damn sexy," he said. He set a slow, hard rhythm, his gaze eager on Aaron's face as they moved.
Dave's pace kept Aaron's body on edge, needing and wanting. Aaron slid his hands down to Dave's ass to feel him move, and found himself rocking his hips up to meet Dave's thrusts. "Mmm, touch me," he whimpered, kissing Dave slowly.
"Love touching you," Dave said when the kiss ended. He slipped his hand between them and curled his fingers firmly around Aaron. "You feel so good."
"Yes," Aaron whispered. "Harder. Love feeling you."
"God," Dave said. He did as he was told, giving everything Aaron wanted and taking all Aaron gave. Their relationship had never revolved around sex, but it was one of so many things that made Dave and Aaron perfect for each other. "Love you," Dave breathed. The expression on his face was a mixture of love and lust that gave Aaron thrills.
Aaron arched, letting the way Dave was driving into him send pleasure through his entire body, just barely managing to return the words Dave had just spoken. He slid his hand down and curled it around his cock to stroke, his fingers laced with Dave's.
Dave's movements were sure and demanding, and he made it very plain how much he enjoyed sex with Aaron. He was murmuring endearments as they moved together, but they very quickly fell by the wayside as their pleasure mounted. It wasn't long before Dave was gasping out that he was close, his hand moving jerkily on Aaron's cock.
"Yes," Aaron panted, tightening his leg over Dave's hip. "Come. I want to feel you."
Dave groaned, his eyes closing for a moment as he drove into Aaron again. Then he opened them again so he was watching Aaron when he came, showing Aaron all the passion that was reserved just for him.
Aaron closed his fingers in Dave's hair, pulling him down for a kiss and the heat flooded him. There couldn't really be anything wrong. Dave was so strong, so passionate when he was only focused on Aaron. It was stress.
The kiss drew on, and Dave's fingers curled around Aaron again, stroking demandingly. When he finally pulled back, he locked his gaze on Aaron's, watching him. "You're so sexy," he murmured. "So handsome and everything I want. I love you, Aaron."
"Love you," Aaron managed, but Dave was keeping his body humming, and Aaron was breathless. "Mmm, close," he panted.
"Good," Dave said. "Let me see you." His gaze was hot on Aaron's. "You're so sexy when you come."
Aaron closed his eyes and swore, then bit his lip as Dave drove him toward orgasm. He gasped Dave's name when it hit, arching off the bed while Dave stroked him to completion. "Oh, God," he moaned, pulling Dave in for a kiss, and feeling utterly spent after his second orgasm of the evening.
Dave laughed into the kiss. "You can call me Dave when we're at home," he murmured, brushing his nose against Aaron's cheek.
Aaron grinned lazily and slid his hand down to swat at Dave's ass.
Dave laughed again and shifted so he could lie down next to Aaron. "I didn't realize you're into kinky," he teased. "All this time and I'm still learning new things about you."
"Mmm, that wasn't intended to be sexual," Aaron teased. "You deserved it." He kissed Dave slowly, then breathed, "You're everything to me."
Dave smiled and pulled him closer. "Yes," he whispered. "The same is true for me."
***
Aaron managed to arrange a four-day weekend, and in just a few days, Dave and Aaron were ensconced in a nice hotel room, complete with ocean-view balcony, on Tybee Island off the coast of Georgia. Dave had promised that on the way home, they would stop by Haley's house to see Jack. They spent their first day doing just as Dave had requested--walking on the beach, ignoring most of the people they saw. They waded into the water when they felt like it, then sprawled on their towels in the sand. Dave seemed to relax, and Aaron knew he was relaxing. Dave seemed more like his old self, and Aaron realized he hadn't noticed until now how stressed out Dave had seemed.
"Aaron."
The sunlight was beating down on Aaron's closed eyelids, the heat seeming to press them closed. "Mmm?"
"Aaron. Hand me the sauce, would you?"
Aaron shielded his eyes from the sun and opened them. "The what?"
"That--that tube. The...shit. The sauce." Dave snapped his fingers and pointed at the sunblock.
Aaron frowned. "The sunblock?" he suggested, then reached for it and handed it over, watching Dave. "You okay?" he asked, once Dave had it in hand, and reached out to touch Dave's forearm.
"Huh? Yeah, I'm fine. Just couldn't think of the word." Dave squeezed some out and rubbed it over his arm, then glanced over at Aaron and waggled his eyebrows. "Want me to do your back?"
Aaron gave him a weak grin. "That sounds nice, actually." God, what was going on? Dave just couldn't think of the word during the profile on the last case too. It wasn't like him at all, and he was supposed to be relaxing. He was relaxed.
"Good. Roll over." Dave's hands were strong as he used the sunblock as an excuse to give Aaron a quick massage. "This was a good idea," he murmured, smoothing his hands over Aaron's skin. "Thanks for insisting I take some time off."
"Mmm," Aaron hummed, but he didn't say that he was suddenly worried that whatever was bothering Dave wasn't going away. They still had some time left on their vacation, and he really didn't want to fight. "Love you," he murmured. They didn't say it all that often--they knew without words--but lately he couldn't help it.
Dave's hands slid up to his shoulders, and then a brief kiss brushed against his ear. "I love you too," Dave whispered. "You're a good man, Aaron Hotchner. I got lucky when you decided you wanted me."
"You're not the only lucky one." It felt strange to be so affectionate in public, but there was no one they knew around, and he sincerely doubted that even if someone saw him across the beach that they would recognize buttoned-up Aaron Hotchner lying in the sand in swim trunks. He turned his head, cupping Dave's cheek, and Dave leaned in to kiss his lips.
"Mmm. You know, every time I start thinking about retiring again, I think about all the time I'd have to spend away from you." Dave grinned at him. "It's your fault I keep working." He winked, and Aaron knew he was just kidding. He settled back down on his towel, watching Aaron.
"You're going to be waiting a long time if you're waiting for me to retire," Aaron murmured, his eyelids drooping again. He sighed, trying not to think too much.
Dave laughed. "Don't worry, I know better." Aaron felt Dave's fingers settle against his arm, just enough for the contact. They lapsed into silence again, and after a while, Aaron could tell from Dave's breathing that he'd fallen asleep.
Aaron watched him for a while, his stomach feeling heavy the longer Dave was asleep, not talking to him, not reassuring him that he was okay. Eventually, though, he forced himself to close his eyes. Everything was fine. They were having a great time, and the sound of the ocean was soothing.
Aaron must have drifted off too, because he woke up to his back stinging. Apparently either his sunblock wasn't strong enough, or they'd been here too long. He lifted his arm to look at his watch, then remembered that Dave had insisted he not wear one while they were on vacation.
He wasn't sure whether to wake Dave or not, but they had talked about going in to Savannah for a nice dinner, and the sun's position made him think the afternoon was getting on. He reached over and stroked his fingers along Dave's cheek.
"Hmm?" Dave took a long breath, then opened his eyes and stretched. "Hey. Was I asleep long?"
"I don't know," Aaron said. "Someone thought it was a good idea not to worry about the time or keeping to a schedule. I'm not sure why I keep agreeing." He gave Dave a sleepy grin.
Dave grinned back. "Because you love me. And I'm very persuasive." He leered at Aaron, then sat up. "Mm, must've been a while, because I'm feeling a little tender."
"Me too," Aaron admitted, then pushed himself up off his stomach and onto his knees. "We should go in and rub aloe on each other," he suggested, his lips quirking to the side.
"Oh, I like that idea." Dave climbed to his feet with a groan. "Maybe I'm getting too old to spend afternoons sleeping in the sand," he said, working his shoulders and neck to get out the kinks. He paused and considered. "Naahh. You can never be too old for that."
"Maybe we'll get down early enough to get one of the hotel's beach chairs tomorrow," Aaron said. He stood and picked up their towels, shaking them off and reaching for the cooler they'd brought down. "I love you." God, he couldn't stop saying it.
Dave's eyebrows went up and he studied Aaron for a long moment, then came over and slid his arm around Aaron's waist. "I love you too," he murmured, and kissed him slowly. "Everything's all right, isn't it?"
Aaron sighed. "Yeah. Everything's fine." He didn't think Dave believed him, though.
"Okay." Dave's fingers curled around his. "Come on, let's go see about that aloe."
They went back up to their room, and showered together, washing the sand off each other and kissing, and God, it felt good. And that was how most of the rest of their vacation went, just relaxing and not worrying about anything. Dave seemed okay the rest of the time, so Aaron was able to go back to not thinking about the problem.
The last day of their trip, they headed to visit Jack, and when they pulled up outside the house, Jack was playing basketball by himself in the driveway. Aaron parked along the sidewalk and got out, and Jack beamed when he saw him. "Dad!"
"Hey," Aaron said, grinning. "What? Too big to give your old man a hug?" he asked as he walked up, and when Jack came to hug him, Aaron ruffled his hair.
"Hey, Dave," Jack said, smiling a little less brightly. He was finally getting to an age where he was starting to feel self-conscious about his father being with another man. Aaron knew it wasn't Jack, but that peer pressure was a huge factor at his age. Aaron had intended to talk to Jack about it until Dave had insisted that unless it got bad, it would probably be better to let Jack come around on his own.
"How's it going, buddy?" Dave gave him an easy grin. To his credit, he treated Jack no differently than he always had, and didn't seem to take offense at all. "Your mom inside?"
"Yeah, with Andrew," Jack said. He dribbled the basketball a few times.
Dave nodded. "I'm gonna go in and say hi. You two can shoot hoops without me." He knocked on the front door, then disappeared inside.
Jack bounced the ball a few more times. "Mom said you were coming today. Said you were on vacation." Without me, the implication seemed to be.
"Yeah," he said. Jack shot the ball, which went in the hoop easily, then passed it to Aaron. "Just a weekend. Dave needed a little break and convinced me to come with him." He shot and missed.
"Did you have fun?" Jack asked. He shot again and the ball bounced off the rim, so he chased the ball halfway down the drive. When he came back, Aaron marveled at how tall his son was getting. His hair, which was starting to darken up, had flopped down into his eyes. He was starting to look a little more like Aaron as he got older. It was sort of nice.
"I did," Aaron replied. "You know, school's more important than vacation. Maybe I can get some more time off over the summer, though." He wasn't sure he could, but he'd been too late for Jack's spring break this time.
"Yeah, maybe." Jack sounded casual, but then he looked up and grinned. "Tommy and his parents went to a big water park place up by where you live. You could take me there."
Aaron grinned, then laughed after a moment. "You just want to see me look ridiculous on one of those slides," he said, but then shook his head. "Sounds good." He nudged Jack's shoulder, then got down into a ready position to really play. "Hey, are you going to beat me at this or not?"
"I'm totally gonna stomp you!" Jack threatened, and they got down to business. Jack showed off all his moves, and Aaron was suitably impressed with his son's skill. Haley had been telling him lately that Jack had natural ability in sports, and Aaron was sure it wasn't just a parent's pride that made him agree.
Jack was actually ahead by several points when Dave, Haley, and Andrew came outside. Aaron gratefully called a time out and went over to say hello to his ex-wife and her husband. Fortunately everyone looked friendly. For the first couple of years that Aaron and Dave were together, Dave and Haley had butted heads quite often, but eventually they'd settled into a fairly comfortable relationship. It had helped when Haley met Andrew, who had made a real effort to become friendly with Aaron and was committed to encouraging Jack's sense of family to include his father and Dave as well as his mother and step-father.
"Hi," Haley said, kissing his cheek. "Ick, you're sweaty. I told you Jack's good at basketball."
"He's kicking my butt," Aaron said, grinning proudly. "There's a reason I went to law school," he joked, then wiped sweat off his forehead with the back of his arm.
"You know, I think Derek went to law school, too," Dave pointed out, "and he was a starting quarterback for two years." He grinned. "Hey, I thought we could all go out and get pizza or something, if Jack's up for it. My treat. What do you think, buddy?"
Jack shrugged. "Sure. Mom and Andrew are coming too?"
"If that's okay with you," Andrew said. "I'm kinda hungry, but if you'd rather hang out with your dad and Dave alone, that's okay too."
Jack shrugged again. "Doesn't matter."
Aaron couldn't tell if he meant that or not. Kids were sometimes a lot harder to read than unsubs. He reached out and messed up Jack's sweaty hair again. "We'll call it a draw, then."
"Heeeey, no fair!" Jack protested, frowning and raking his fingers through his hair, but when he saw his dad was kidding he smiled and chucked the ball at him a little harder than necessary. "Sore loser," he accused.
Everyone seemed to have a good time at the pizza place, and afterwards Jack decided he wanted to ride in Dave's two-seater, which he'd insisted they drive on vacation instead of Aaron's sensible car. Aaron wasn't sure if it was a good idea to have Dave and Jack riding together, but he shook his head when Dave offered to let him drive the car. He wasn't sure it was a good idea, but he also didn't want Jack to get the idea that Dave didn't want to spend time together. Dave was right--Jack would come around eventually--and Aaron didn't want anything to impede that.
He and Haley took the opportunity to discuss parenting issues, which was when Aaron learned that Jack's math grades were poor. Aaron agreed to pay for a tutor, and Haley gave him a copy of Jack's report card and let him know what week Jack was going to be at summer camp.
When they got back to the house, Dave and Jack were sitting on the front porch. Dave didn't look very happy, but Jack was chattering at him about something, and when they saw the others, Dave waved. They stood around in the yard for a while longer, and Jack showed Aaron his latest report card and was given the news that the math grade had to come up. Before long, it was time for Dave and Aaron to head out so they could get home at a reasonable hour.
Aaron waited until they were underway again, then glanced over at where Dave had his eyes closed in the passenger seat. "Everything okay?"
Dave shrugged. "I just hope he comes around someday. He's a great kid, and I don't like having this distance between us."
Aaron sighed, and reached over to close his hand around Dave's. "I know he loves you, even if he's questioning things right now," Aaron said quietly. "I could still talk to him, you know."
Dave twined his fingers with Aaron's. "Nah, he's smart, and I really do think he'll come around. I just... I dunno. Just feeling it more than usual today, I guess." He looked over at Aaron, smiling. "You're a great dad. I don't know if I tell you that often enough, but you are."
"Thank you," Aaron said. He kept to himself that he'd be a better dad if he was around more. He and Dave had had this argument a lot in the past, and Dave usually won, even if it was because it was something Aaron didn't want to fight about. "Did you see him play?" he asked, smiling and glancing over at Dave.
Dave grinned. "Yeah, we were watching from the living room. He'll be an NBA star before we know it. I don't know if I have a right to say it, but I'm pretty proud of the kid." He snorted. "I hear he needs Reid's help with his math grades, though."
"Yeah," Aaron said. "It's too bad he doesn't live closer, actually. Reid's getting a lot of practice with Henry; he'd probably be up to it."
"Especially since Jack's older than Henry." Dave yawned. "This has been a good trip, Aaron. Thanks for making me take some time off." He tightened his fingers on Aaron's. "Of course, I also always feel better when I know I've made you relax a little, too."
"I know," Aaron murmured. Honestly, he was ready to get back to work, but he'd had a good time, and he hated having to leave Jack. "You're good to me," he added, stroking his thumb over Dave's.
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Date: 2009-09-28 12:51 am (UTC)Thanks!