Chapter Twenty-Three

Ford kept scrubbing the stain, not sure what to say as Cort left the garage, then came back with a couple of beers. Things had been going well lately, but every day still felt like he was standing on the edge, about to fucking crash and burn. He’d promised Cort he’d bring a friend every time he went to pick up his son.

Cort had thought that meant Kyle would back off.

So had Ford.

They’d both been wrong.

He scrubbed harder, then dropped the brush, pretty sure he’d start removing the color from the fabric if he kept that up. He took a swig from his beer and leaned against the table, watching Cort’s throat work as he took a few gulps.

Fuck, he loved this man. He always had, in some way or another, but they’d reached a whole new level. One Ford wanted to explore more than anything. But Cort was still protecting him. As he always had. As he probably believed he’d always need to, but what kind of fucking relationship would that be?

Cort wasn’t his guardian. He wasn’t one of his fathers. He was his best friend. The one person who’d always been there. Never really as equals though. He’d always been stuck cleaning up Ford’s mess.

Even with the mother of your kid.

Ford had wanted to clean up this latest mess on his own, but ended up only digging himself in deeper. How far would he let Kyle push him before saying ‘No’? Thinking about it now, he still didn’t know. And he knew Cort might not forgive him once he saw through all the lies and evasions. If he let Kyle fuck him, would Cort look back at the one time Ford hadn’t been able to go there with him? That another man had been Ford’s first when Cort had been right here? That kind of thing had to fuck with a guy’s head, right?

Then don’t let that happen. Kyle might be able to force me to do a lot, but he can’t have that.

He set down the beer and turned to Cort. “You know… It wasn’t you.”

Cort’s brow furrowed. “Come again?”

Ford inhaled roughly. “At the party. I didn’t freeze up because of you. I got off on being used for a bit, but…I don’t know, part of me figured sucking a lot of dick would be good experience. And another part of me was just there, in the moment. It was dirty and fun and fuck it, I enjoyed myself.”

“I had fun too, Ford. It was my idea to have the party in the first place.”

“I know, but…” He reached for his beer, going still when Cort grabbed his wrist. The man wouldn’t let him find his courage in the bottom of a bottle. He swallowed hard. “I’ve fucked at parties before. It didn’t mean anything.”

Nodding slowly, Cort turned Ford so his back was against the table. Placed his hands by Ford’s hips. “But with us, it’s different. And I get that. I haven’t been taking my time just for you. It’s only been a few months since things changed between us. I want it to mean something. I want us both to be ready.”

“I am ready.”

“No, Ford. You’re fucking scared.” Cort stopped Ford from shaking his head by firmly framing his jaw with his hand. “I’m not stupid. I’ve seen the way Akira looks at you. How worried she is. I haven’t heard anything, so I’m assuming her and Jami have talked. And bringing Luke didn’t go as well as you hoped. Am I right?”

Ford looked down. He had no clue how to answer—wasn’t sure he needed to.

“You have two choices. You tell me you want the man dead and I will kill him. This will end.” Cort’s grip on Ford’s jaw tightened when he tried to jerk away. “Or you be the shady bastard I know you can be and do what you have to, while giving that fucker nothing. You make sure you can see your son. You make sure that bastard doesn’t take off with him. But while you’re doing that, you trust me to fucking get it. Because I’ve been where you are. With your father.”

Eyes wide, Ford stared at Cort. “He made you—”

“That homophobic ass-wipe? No. But how often did he make me ‘discipline’ you? You talked back to him once and I punched you in the face and split your lip. Just the one time, but I’ll never forget it. I knew if I didn’t hit you then, he’d make the other guys do much worse.” Cort pushed away from the table, as though his own memories made it hard for him to be near Ford. “He made me destroy your first fucking guitar over a bad grade. Trash your Xbox when you got suspended. I was there to protect you, but I was also used against you. And I let him use me because it was the only way he’d let me stay.”

Ford tipped his head back. “Shit was so fucked up back then. But I understood what you were doing, even when I was pissed and hurting. We both know you’re the only reason I’m still alive.”

“Goes both ways, my man.” Cort inhaled slowly. “Do you know how often I woke up in that fucking cell, knowing that might be the day one of my dad’s enemies took me out? Wondering why I didn’t let them? Sutter had people watching my back, but it would have been so damn easy to stop fighting. He came to visit one day and he could tell I was ready to give up. You wanna know what he said?”

Meeting Cort’s tired eyes, Ford wasn’t sure he wanted to know. But he nodded because Cort needed to tell him.

“He’d been afraid he’d ruined me. That I’d end up following in his footsteps. Or dead. Instead, I’d proven I was the kind of man who’d put someone else first and he was fucking proud of me. And if you’d earned that kind of loyalty, maybe you weren’t so bad after all.” The edge of Cort’s lips twitched. “He still thought you were trouble—and he wasn’t wrong. But the way he saw it, when you find someone worth sacrificing everything for, worth being your best self with, you don’t give up on that.”

That made sense. And if whatever Sutter had said got Cort through years in prison, Ford was damn grateful. But he couldn’t see the man being on board with where their relationship was now.

Had Cort even told him? “So he doesn’t have a problem with…” Ford gestured from himself to Cort. “Us?”

Cort shrugged. “I don’t think he’d give a fuck, but we haven’t discussed it if that’s what you’re asking.”

“Oh.”

“You’re so worried about what people think.” Cort cupped Ford’s cheek in his big hand and brushed his thumb over Ford’s bottom lip. “That’s what’s fucking with you. Am I gonna hate you for doing what you have to for your son? Will Akira forgive you the next time you do something shady? Will your sisters decide they’re done with your shit and ditch you?” Cort let out a heavy sigh. “What do we have to do to make you believe we’re not going anywhere?”

Ford let out a bitter laugh. “That’s easy to say when you don’t know what I’ve done.”

“I’ve killed a man, Ford.” Cort’s expression hardened. His fingers dug into Ford’s jaw. “I’m responsible for Tim’s death. You’re still here. There is nothing you could do that would drive me away. I know what you’re capable of and it’s nothing I can’t forgive.”

Grabbing Cort’s forearm, Ford’s eyes narrowed. “Tim’s death isn’t your fault. That’s all on my father. If I’d just—”

“We’re not playing the blame game.”

“Then what exactly are we doing?”

“Did you forget already?” Cort huffed out a laugh, gliding his hand down to circle Ford’s throat. “You were trying to convince me to fuck you.”

All the air left Ford’s lungs as he stared up at Cort. He wanted this, wanted it more than he could say. So long as he had Cort and Akira, so long as he knew they’d still love him when all was said and done, he could get through anything. There was something possessive about the way Cort held him, cementing his earlier words, making them even clearer as his calloused fingers pressed into Ford’s skin. ‘I’m not going anywhere.’

Lowering his hand, Cort flipped the button to Ford’s jeans open, then undid his zipper. He teased his lips over Ford’s as he freed Ford’s dick. “Pass me that lotion, just a bit to your left…that’s it.” He gave Ford a hooded look as he unscrewed the container onehanded and scooped a little of the homemade lotion out. “My hands tend to be a little rough. This will help.”

“I don’t mind you rough.” Ford shivered as the cool lotion, only partially melted in Cort’s palm, slid over the heated flesh of his dick. Groaning as Cort languidly stroked him until his full length was slick, he reached for Cort’s belt, hoping to urge him on.

Cort released his throat and grabbed his wrist. “Hands on the table. Don’t move or I stop.”

That tone. Fuuuck! The hairs on the back of Ford’s neck stood on end as he positioned his hands, doing his best to hold still as Cort toyed with him. Usually he was the one jerking off Cort, or getting on his knees. Having the tables turned on him, twice now, took the control from him completely. Much like it had been taken at the party.

Only, this time, there was no one else there to make Ford question if this was what he really wanted. He wasn’t floating on endorphins from a scene, or reacting to the commanding tone of several different men because he was in the zone.

He was reacting to Cort.

Just Cort.

And that meant so much more.

“There we go, I enjoy you like this.” Cort gave Ford a slow, deep kiss as he ran his hand at a steady pace up and down his dick. “I don’t mind torturing you to get you here, but it’s not always practical.”

Ford smiled against Cort’s lips. “Not always, eh?”

“Mmm.” Cort tightened his grip, then nipped Ford’s bottom lip. “I don’t know how I went years not even fucking tempted to touch you, and now not a minute goes by that I don’t remember how you taste.”

“You didn’t seem to be a fan.”

Cort let out a low, irritated sound, but there was laughter in his eyes. “No, I don’t like the taste of cum. But I fucking love the taste of your lips.” He sucked on Ford’s bottom lip. “The taste of your skin.” He brought his mouth down to Ford’s throat, flicking his tongue against Ford’s pulse. “The taste of you hot and sweaty and right on the edge, begging me to give you everything.”

“Cort…” Ford’s back arched as Cort stroked him faster. “Please…”

“Like that. Perfect.” There was a darkness to Cort’s tone, the one he usually got before he pulled out the whip. He didn’t slow his pace, but he latched his hand to the back of Ford’s neck and held his gaze. “We do this my way or not at all. Do you understand?”

Ford quickly nodded.

“Good.” Cort released Ford’s dick and took a step back. “Shirt and jeans off. Keep the boxers.”

Words didn’t mean much for a minute. Then the last one did. Ford wet his lips with his tongue. “Boxers?”

Arching a brow, arms folded over his chest, Cort simply waited.

Questions would get Ford absolutely nowhere if Cort was in the mood to play. He’d seen the man pull this with Akira often enough to have a clue as to what was about to happen. Akira was submissive to the core, so she enjoyed the long game, but Ford wasn’t sure he’d survive it.

Wanna bet you don’t have a choice?

He removed his shirt. Straightened his boxers over his slick—and painfully erect—dick. Then kicked off his jeans.

“Good boy.” Cort’s lips curved into a slow smile as Ford’s jaw ticked. He reached out for a rag to clean the lotion from his hands. “Your first time with me isn’t going to be in the fucking garage, so stop sulking. I plan to take my time with you. Spend a few hours making sure you’re ready.”

“Hours?” Ford shook his head. “You’re joking, right?”

“Why would I be joking? Having you walking around like this, not sure what I’ll do to you next, so fucking desperate you’ll take anything I’m willing to give you?” Cort rested his hip against the edge of the table. “It works for both of us. I get to enjoy the view and you have plenty of time to change your mind.”

Heat swept across Ford’s cheeks and down the back of his neck. All right, he didn’t object to having Cort’s attention on him for the next few hours. And fuck it, if the man wanted to play games, Ford was pretty good at them himself.

He stepped away from the table, rolling his shoulders and smirking a little at the way Cort’s gaze slid over his bare chest. “I won’t change my mind, but you might give in sooner than you think.”

“Are you gonna test my control?” Cort seemed amused at the idea. “You’re missing the point. Go ahead and tempt me. I’ll have as much, or as little of you as I want, whenever I want. But you’ll stay on the edge until I’ve got you under me, stretching you out with my dick and seeing how loud I can make you scream my name.”

Ford’s mouth went dry. He cleared his throat. “I don’t think I’ve ever heard you talk this dirty to Akira.”

Cort shrugged, then put his hand on Ford’s shoulder, massaging the tense muscles and staring at him until Ford met his eyes. “She needs gentle from me. You don’t. Not right now. You’re horny and demanding and that’s fine. We’ll see if that changes by the time I get you in our bed.”

“And until then?”

“Finish up in here. I’ll go put on something for supper.”

After Cort left, Ford stood there for a while, frowning at the remaining stains on the coveralls and cursing his still hard dick. He’d been so sure Cort was finally going to fuck him. Instead, they’d started some kind of scene with no end in sight.

Maybe that’s the problem. Having sex with the man you love isn’t an end goal. It’s supposed to mean something.

But he’d been focused on what had been happening with Kyle. As though sleeping with Cort first would…would somehow make letting Kyle use him any less fucked up. But Cort didn’t want their first time to be about claiming him. Any more than he had at the party. This was something they would enjoy together, no matter who else was involved.

The only other person Ford ever wanted involved was Akira. Her being there would be good, even though part of him wanted to share this first with Cort alone. Make sure their bond was as strong as his and Akira, or hers and Cort.

But the one person who didn’t belong anywhere near his relationship, physically or mentally, was Kyle.

Ford hadn’t been thinking of Kyle at all when Cort had touched him. When he’d set the rules to the game or told him how long it would last. That was the point. Cort wanted to make sure he was the only one on Ford’s mind when they were together.

Moving on to a fresh stain and following Akira’s instructions from earlier, Ford went back to work. He shoved four coveralls in the washer, tossed in some laundry tabs, and turned the machine on. Took off the gloves and tossed them in the sink to wash them, then hang them up to dry. He moved to dry his hands on his jeans, but only ended up with wet smears on the cotton of his boxers.

Shit. Forgot about that. He made a face, finding a clean towel to dry his hands, goosebumps rising on his arms as the temperature in the garage started to drop. Any other day, he’d grab a hoodie, but screw it. Things were about to get interesting.

By the time he got to the kitchen, he was even more aware of how close to naked he was. One look at Cort told him how much his man enjoyed keeping him that way. Not that Cort hadn’t been looking at him longer, the heat in his eyes growing more intense for months, but the way his gaze traced every inch of Ford now lingered like a bruising kiss, or a firm grip, drawing him close.

Cort had set two plates, which meant he’d probably called Akira and she wouldn’t be back in time for supper. She usually let them both know, but Ford hadn’t heard his phone. Maybe he’d been too distracted?

No. Her ringtone would have gotten through to him, no matter what he was doing. He’d never missed a call or a text from her.

Which meant she hadn’t tried to reach him.

Frowning, Ford pulled out a chair, sitting back as Cort served the fried chicken and Caesar salad. “Is Akira still with Oriana? I hope everything’s all right?”

“Everything’s fine.” Cort picked up a piece of chicken and took a big bite, chewing slowly, then washing it down with a few gulps of ice water. “She’s spending the night and asked us not to wait up.” He wiped the edge of his mouth with a napkin, his lips curving slightly. “And she said to tell you to behave.”

“I will.” Ford dipped his fork into his salad, shifting it around distractedly before glancing up at Cort. “Is that all she had to say?”

“Yes. She sounded busy when I finally got ahold of her.” Cort set down his chicken. “She doesn’t spend much time with Oriana. Maybe she wants to take advantage of the bit of time they have left before the team’s moved.”

Ford shook his head. “Even if the team’s relocated, it wouldn’t be for another year. Maybe two.”

“What do you mean by ‘if’, Ford? It’s pretty much a done deal.”

“Not. Yet.”

Cort’s lips thinned as he stabbed his salad. “You plan on telling me how you’ll get Keane to change his mind? I might not be clear on all the details, but his resolve seems damn solid.”

This conversation wouldn’t go anywhere good. And it could wait. Ford took a bite of his chicken, smiling as the tender meat came apart under the savory crust. He’d expected it to be dry, like the last few times Cort had made this same meal, but his man had apparently taken Akira’s tips to heart.

“This is delicious.” He licked his lips and held up a hand when Cort’s expression hardened. “Yes, I’m changing the subject. You know I’ll do what I can to save the team, but there’s still time. And I’d much rather discuss how you managed to keep the chicken from tasting like leather.”

Red stained Cort’s cheeks as he looked over the food with a hint of sheepish pride. The man rarely blushed, but when he did, it was kinda cute.

And didn’t last. Ford grinned as Cort served them each another piece of chicken as though that was the only way he knew how to respond to the praise. Then he cleared his throat.

“I’m glad you like it. But next time, why don’t you fucking tell me?” Cort shook his head and tore a piece off his chicken leg, looking more than a little impressed with himself. “I mean, it was edible before, but this is much better.”

“Not sure how you called that edible after you’ve had Akira’s amazing chicken.”

“I figured it was just different recipes.”

“Since when is chicken supposed to be a workout for your jaw?”

Shrugging again, Cort returned his focus to his food.

Ford did the same, not sure how to lighten the mood again. He cursed himself when he considered that Cort had never gotten a chance to be picky with food, between Sutter cooking for him—the man considered jerky two food groups—prison, and whatever he grabbed at the bar. He could grill a mean steak, but his cooking experience had been severely limited.

Until they’d begun preparing for Jaxon to come live with them. Cort had started paying more attention when Akira made supper. Asked her for advice. Even started printing out recipes he’d found online.

He wanted to make sure Jaxon ate well, even when he was the one cooking. And Ford loved him even more for it.

You’ve got a fucked-up way of showing it.

“Stop looking all guilty. I wasn’t a great cook and I know it. Kids are picky. I improved so I can do my part.” Cort leaned back in his chair. “Now come here.”

The abrupt shift in Cort’s demeanor threw Ford off balance again as he rose from his chair. Cort gave him a lazy smile, turning his chair sideways as Ford approached. He pulled Ford down to straddle his lap, claiming his lips in a languorous kiss.

“I’ve been wanting to do this for a while.” Cort reached over and picked up a piece of chicken from his plate. He held it to Ford’s lips. “Fried chicken isn’t the sexiest food though.”

Deciding to prove Cort wrong, Ford opened his mouth, taking the chicken and Cort’s finger and thumb into his mouth. He let his lips slide over them slowly, grinning as he pulled back and chewed the small piece of chicken.

“I stand corrected.” Cort’s dick swelled between them, pressing against Ford’s own hardening cock. He wrapped an arm around Ford’s waist, holding him closer as he fed Ford another piece of chicken. “But now I’m teasing myself. I’d much rather you sucking my dick than my fingers.”

“Yeah?” Ford moved to stand, but Cort held him in place. Brow lifted, Ford stared at him. “Be hard to do with me on your lap.”

“I know, but I like you here.” Cort’s lips curved. He spread his thighs, his hand gliding down to Ford’s ass. “Every time you climb on me, just like this, I want to rip your clothes off and make you ride my dick. I can tell you know exactly what you’re doing to me, but while I was trying to take things slow, it was fucking torture.”

Inhaling roughly, Ford leaned forward as Cort’s fingers slid down the seam of his ass and pressed against him. Even through the material of his boxers, the heat and the pressure of Cort’s fingertips stimulated all his nerves. He lowered his face to the curve of Cort’s neck, panting as the pressure increased.

“Is that how you want me now?”

“No. Not yet.” Cort lifted Ford up, pulling his boxers down to bare his ass. One arm barred across his back, holding him in place. “Right now, I just want to play with you. I love that I can do whatever I want, wherever I want.” He spit in his palm, then brought his hand down slicking Ford’s hole and pressing his fingers against him again. This time, he penetrated Ford with the tip of one finger. “You’re so fucking hot. How does that feel?”

At first, it felt a bit strange. Invasive and vulnerable. But as Cort worked his finger in deeper, Ford groaned, the rough sensation of being so exposed adding to the gritty pleasure. This was Cort, exploring his reactions, touching him as though Ford’s body belonged to him.

Exactly what Ford had wanted from him. This pure feeling of possession. He gasped through parted lips as Cort added another finger, only the tips of two straining in, but enough that the stretch brought on the sweetest bite of pain.

“Good.” Ford shifted his hips, grinding his dick against Cort’s, the movement letting Cort’s fingers in a little deeper. “So good.”

“Yeah?” Cort made a slight pumping motion with his fingers, working all the sensitive nerves, latching on to the back of Ford’s neck when he ground down again. “Don’t move. Tell me when you’re close.”

Breathing hard, Ford fought not to move as Cort forced his fingers in deeper. The burn intensified and precum seeped from the tip of Ford’s dick. He had no doubt he could come from this alone, but he had a feeling Cort wouldn’t let him. This was more edge play, and for some reason, Cort’s fingers in his ass made it even harder to hold back than being jerked off had been.

When Cort’s knuckles breached him, and his fingers curved, Ford’s whole body started shaking. A surge of pleasure made his hips jerk, which only spurred another.

“Oh God.” Ford rested his forehead against Cort’s, breathing fast and trying to hold his gaze. “I can’t take much more. I want you.”

Cort smiled, kissing him as he withdrew his fingers, then fixed Ford’s boxers. “Soon. Now go finish eating.”

I may kill this man. Ford’s legs were unsteady as he climbed off Cort’s lap, but he made it back to his chair. Continued eating as Cort went to wash his hands. Didn’t bother complaining when Cort started talking about a restoration he’d done on a vintage truck, acting like he hadn’t just left Ford needy as fuck.

After the meal was done, Ford cleaned the kitchen, his dick still hard and his ass still clenching around the lingering sensations. His brain was a little hazy, as though lust had taken hold and blurred all other thoughts. Once the kitchen was spotless, he simply stood there, feeling a little lost. Cort hadn’t told him what to do next and he craved that, for some reason.

He recognized the headspace he was in. He usually didn’t get here without pain, but that tended to come on faster, with a sharp clarity. This was like floating aimlessly in a cloud of desire, all his senses on high alert, pure need wrapping around him.

A hand settled on his shoulder and he looked over at Cort who gave him a gentle smile. “You got in the zone faster than expected. Come.”

When they reached the bedroom, Cort turned to him, cupping his cheek and studying him for a moment. He brought his lips to Ford’s, kissing him slowly as he hooked his fingers into the waist of Ford’s boxers, easing them down, then guiding Ford to the end of the bed.

“Bend over and brace your hands on the mattress. Good boy.” Cort smoothed his hand down Ford’s back. “You’re already floating a little. Let’s see if we can get you higher.”

Steady footsteps crossed the room. A zipper sounded. Cort returned, placing several items on the mattress near Ford.

Ford’s pulse picked up a notch at the sight of the lube and the long, butt plug, which was just a bit thicker than two of Cort’s fingers. Beside them lay Ford’s favorite flogger, which had several knots in each fall. The game was about to get more serious, which gave Ford a strange rush of fear and excitement.

“I know you always say you don’t need it, but you will use your safe word if you’re overwhelmed.” Cort stroked his back again, then leaned down, curving his hand under Ford’s jaw to turn his head and meet his eyes. “Understood?”

“Yes.” Ford knew Cort needed the word, but he wasn’t sure he’d said it out loud at first. Nothing seemed quite solid or real.

But Cort smiled and inclined his head. “Good.” He picked up the lube and the plug and stepped behind Ford. “Widen your stance a bit. Yes, just like that. Now don’t move.”

Cool liquid spilled down the creased of Ford’s ass, down to his balls. Cort’s fingers slipped over him, pressing lightly, then one filled him, going deeper than before with the lube easing his way. Ford tipped his ass up, craving more, shamelessly ready to beg if he had to.

“Fuck, I could play with your ass all night. The way you respond to every touch is fucking hot.” Cort added another finger. “Tell me what you want me to do to you.”

“Everything. Oh fuck, keep doing that.” Ford rode back against Cort’s fingers, letting out a low moan when they left him, much too soon. “Cort…”

Rather than respond, Cort replaced his fingers with the plug, his free hand on Ford’s hip holding him still when the widest part began to stretch him. The burn was rougher than it had been with Cort’s fingers, but Ford loved it. He tried to shove back against it.

Cort’s hand hit his thigh with a loud SLAP!

“If you move again you’ll get nothing but the plug tonight. You know how big I am. I don’t want to hurt you the wrong way.” Cort rubbed over the stinging on Ford’s thigh, then poured more lube over the plug. “Let it in.”

Holding still, Ford pressed and the plug slowly filled him, settling in deep. His ass clenched around it and he sucked in air through his teeth as Cort’s palm pushed on the base of the plug. Then he moved both his hands to cup Ford’s ass cheeks, spreading them.

“Mmm, I like that. Next time, I’ll use a much bigger one.” Cort massaged Ford’s ass, then reached over and grabbed the flogger. “I won’t go as hard on you as usual. I don’t think you’ll need it, this is already more than you’re used to. But if this goes well, next time we’ll do a full session.”

Getting flogged by Cort was one of Ford’s favorite experiences with the man…until now. He loved the sharp pain, loved the way the bruises reminded him of the scene for days after, but Cort was right. He wouldn’t need anything to remember this. His whole body was tingling, every nerve on high alert, and his thoughts were on nothing but what Cort was doing to him.

Still, as the falls slashed across his ass, the pain spread out in a wave of ecstasy, faster than it ever had before. He let out a loud moan as his ass tightened around the plug. When the falls hit the plug the jolt inside him made him shudder. His dick pulsed and he bit into his cheek, resisting the urge to come.

His whole ass blazed, the heat consuming him as he breathed through the pleasure/pain, jutting his hips back, unable to hold still anymore. When Cort’s hand settled on his hip, he went still wondering if he’d be punished for moving.

Instead, Cort leaned over him, pressing his lips to Ford’s shoulder. “That was fucking perfect. I’m going to take the plug out now. I know it’s hard, but I need you to hold still.”

Ford nodded, wincing as Cort pulled out the plug. The stretching made the marks on his ass sting even more, which was both wonderful and almost too much. But when the plug was gone, Cort stroked his sore flesh, then spilled more lube over him, soothing the burn.

“Tell me where you’re at, Ford.” Cort helped Ford straighten, then laid him on the bed on his back. “Are you ready for more?”

“Fuck yes.” Ford licked his lips as Cort pulled off his black shirt, tossing it aside before ditching his jeans and climbing onto the bed. His gaze ran down Cort’s body, all hard muscle, tattoos and scars, so familiar he could see him clearly even when he closed his eyes.

His dick, fully erect and dark red at his thick head was larger than most men, which had been a problem for Akira their first few times together. She still couldn’t take him fully in her body unless Cort fucked her ass, but she’d become an expert at deepthroating and given Ford some tips until he’d mastered the skill himself.

But that wouldn’t make this part any easier. Ford inhaled roughly as Cort’s body covered his.

Cort kissed him, smiling against his lips. “Are you sure about that?”

“Yes.” Ford spread his thighs, holding still as Cort positioned himself, knowing any uncertainty would make the man stop. He flicked his tongue over Cort’s lips. “What happened to all the dirty talk? Don’t tell me you’re going soft on me now.”

Huffing out a laugh, Cort shook his head. “No, but I won’t have you rushing me because you’re nervous.” Cort reached up to the top of the bed, pulled down the leather restraints that were always tucked under the pillows. He stretched one of Ford’s arms up, then the other, restraining both. “I told you I wanted to watch my dick stretch you open. Nice and fucking slow. And I’m going to do that now unless you ask me to stop.”

“I won’t.”

But as the pressure increased, Ford struggled not to tense, sweat beading on his skin as the ring of muscles that had been toyed with all night was stretched more and more. Cort rose up on his knees, added lube, and pressed Ford’s thighs even further apart, hooking Ford’s knee over his elbow to lift him as he guided the head of his cock inside. This time, the slickness had the wide head of his dick gliding in easily. The fullness of him, moving deeper, then dragging back out, had Ford tugging at his wrists. He wanted to grab Cort, to urge him on.

Cort kept his gaze fixed on where their bodies were connected, sweat glistening on his own skin as he shifted his hips in gradual, measured thrusts. “Fuck, that’s one of the sexiest things I’ve ever seen. God, you feel good.”

“You’re driving me fucking insane.” Ford wrapped his hands around the chains above the cuffs, a heady flow of need and ecstasy surging low, weighing down in his core and expanding until all his limbs felt heavy with it. “Cort, please!”

A longer thrust brought Cort deeper, every inch stimulating nerves that hadn’t been reached before, Ford’s muscles tensing, then releasing as they were opened up more than he’d ever thought possible. The burn that had eased away before returned, adding to the raw pleasure, consuming him until he could do nothing but let out panting moans, jutting his hips as he sought the movement his body craved. Precum trailed from his dick to his stomach.

The firm grip around the base of his cock bowed his spine and he cried out.

“So fucking close already. Hold back for me, Ford.” Cort wrapped his hands around Ford’s waist, digging his fingers into the welts on his ass, making them throb as he eased in the last few inches of his length. “Mmm, the way you’re gripping my dick is incredible. I don’t think I’ll ever get tired of this. I want you so used to taking my dick I can have you whenever I want, pounding into you while you fuck our beautiful woman, letting you ride me while I eat her sweet pussy.” Cort pulled almost all the way out, added even more lube, then glided back in. “Or fucking her, then using nothing but her juices to fuck you. Would you like that?”

Holy shit. Ford was beyond the point of no return, lost in euphoria, only kept from release by Cort’s tight grip returning to the base of his cock whenever he sensed him coming close to the edge. But he stopped trying to get Cort to keep moving. To let him come.

He wanted everything. Needed what he was doing now. What he promised to do in the future. This place Cort had brought him to, surrounded by him, feeling him inside and out, was an exquisite escape he’d needed so fucking bad.

The only thing that would make it more perfect would be if Akira was here.

And, in a way, Cort made sure she was.

“All of that. FuckfuckFUCK!” Ford’s throat ached as his voice rose in time to Cort’s quickened pace. He’d angled his dick perfectly, hitting Ford’s prostate and ricocheting the erotic sensations even further, until Ford was sure they would blast him into a thousand pieces. “Cort!”

“Again.” Cort slammed his hands on the mattress by Ford’s hips, pistoning in and out so hard the whole bed shook. “I want to hear you scream my name until you can’t make another sound. Until you never forget that I’m the only man who will ever have you like this.”

The slight growl underlying Cort’s words brought back just enough reality for Ford to remember what he’d been trying to escape. It didn’t lessen the pleasure, but he wanted Cort to know this would always belong to them. This moment no one else could touch. The connection they had.

He’d known the sex would be amazing, but as he looked up at the man he loved, feeling him deep within, his throat tightened. “Only you, Cort. I promise.”

Bending down, driving in deep, Cort claimed his lips. “Good. Because I’m going to wreck you for anyone else.”

Ford smiled against Cort’s lips. “I think you’re wrecking me in general.”

With an evil grin, Cort tugged at Ford’s bottom lip with his teeth. “That’s the plan.”

The steady sound of flesh on flesh surrounded them as Cort slammed in and out, rising up enough to jerk Ford off in time to the pace of his thrusts. His gaze held Ford’s as he slid his thumb over the head of Ford’s dick, spreading his precum, then gripping the base to cut off his release yet again.

Desperation took hold and Ford’s eyes stung as the ache within reached the point of pure agony, laced with electric jolts of rapture. He found himself repeating Cort’s name over and over, getting louder with each breath, until his throat was so sore he struggled to be heard. But he didn’t stop. His lips kept moving.

“Now, Ford.” Cort’s fingers dug into his hips as he rammed in one last time with a low, feral sound. “Now!”

Every muscle in Ford’s body tensed as he came, the world tearing apart, exploding into too many pieces to count. Like a blazing star within blasting out until every nerve, every pore, every inch of him from the inside out shattered into white heat that stole his ability to do anything but evaporate into the pleasure.

Neither of them moved for a long time. As Ford slowly came back to solid earth, Cort undid his wrists, easing onto the bed, still snug in his body, lying down with Ford on top of him. He stroked Ford’s back, pressing his lips to Ford’s sweat soaked hair.

Ford buried his face against the side of Cort’s neck, wincing as he swallowed. Then he laughed. “Holy fuck.”

Cort chuckled, resting his hand at the base of Ford’s spine. “Yeah. Pretty much.”

“I’m not sure I’ll ever be able to move again.” Ford’s voice sounded funny. He cleared his throat. “This was…more than I was expecting.”

“Mmm.” Cort raked his fingers into Ford’s hair, tugging until Ford met his eyes. “But you needed this.”

“I needed you. All of you.” Ford folded his arms on Cort’s chest and braced his chin on them. “Everything’s been so fucked up. You’re right, I was fucking scared. Scared we wouldn’t get here before—”

Rising up, Cort withdrew from his body in a smooth motion, while flipping him onto his back, not giving him a second to react before he pinned him to the bed with his hands on Ford’s shoulders. He eyes were hard as he stared down at Ford.

“This was for us. Something we both wanted. Both needed.” Cort gritted out every word, holding Ford’s gaze as though to make sure he understood them. Then his jaw hardened. “Everything might still be fucked up, but one thing hasn’t changed. And never will.”

“I know. I love you, Cort. But—”

“No. You fucking listen to me.” Cort pressed his eyes shut. Inhaled slowly. “I love you. I will protect you. If you lose control of the situation, if you don’t think you can stop Kyle from going too far, promise me you’ll tell me.”

“Cort—”

“Promise. Me.” Cort closed his hands around Ford’s shoulders and gave him a little shake. “One way or another, I will end this. We’ve fought too hard and too long to get where we are. You let me in, in every way. That’s where I belong.”

Ford pressed his lips together, not sure he could keep that promise. He’d try, but that wouldn’t be enough for Cort. He loved being here, like this, held and safe, surrounded by love. But he couldn’t stay like this. Couldn’t forget how much his son needed him. Or ignore what might happen if he told Cort what he wanted to hear.

“You know me, Cort. I might play dirty, but I always make it out in one piece.” His lips curved as Cort’s brow furrowed. “I can promise you won’t have to save me again.”

“Ha.” Cort shook his head, pushing up and off the bed. “Keep telling yourself that. Maybe I should work on keeping you here, like this. It’s harder to get in trouble when you’re too sore to move.”

Shaking his head, Ford tried to sit up. The throb on the flesh of his ass, and deep inside, made moving a very bad idea. He thunked his head back on the pillows. “You may be right.”

“I know I am.” Cort’s lips slanted. “And don’t think I’ll forget that anytime soon. You needed some time where you didn’t have any choices to make. To let everything you were afraid of go. Let’s get some sleep and talk about what to do in the morning. Maybe then you’ll finally realize you’re not dealing with this alone.”

“Or I can just focus on how obsessed you are with my ass.”

Cort’s eyes narrowed, but he didn’t comment. He left the room, returning with a damp cloth, which he used on Ford’s ass, cleaning him and soothing the swelling welts, before grabbing some Arnica lotion and smoothing it over Ford’s skin.

He climbed into bed shortly after, pulling Ford into his arms and holding him close, silent for so long, Ford was sure he’d fallen asleep.

Then he spoke softly, his lips brushing Ford’s cheek. “You’re not alone.”

Tears blurred Ford’s vision as all the emotions from the night, from the past few weeks, slammed into him. He still didn’t know how this would end, but he had to believe when it did, he’d still have the man and the woman he loved. They didn’t have to do anything to convince him. They’d been doing just that, all along.

“I know.”