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The snow had fallen steadily throughout the night, coating the streets and sidewalks with a thick layer of pristine white. Buck and little Jee, bundled up in cozy down jackets and sturdy winter boots, walked side by side. The cold air nipped at their noses and cheeks, but their warm clothing shielded them from the biting wind. They admired the morning’s peaceful beauty as they trudged toward Hen's house through the snow-covered winter wonderland. Buck couldn't help but notice how much Jee reminded him of his late sister, Maddy. From the way, she laughed in a bell-like tone to her dark, slightly curled hair and big eyes. But she also had Howie’s cute charm and his stubbornness.  Buck felt bittersweet, knowing they would never be able to walk in the snow with him and Jee again. Having moved to the area, many people had assumed that Buck was a widower. But with time, his fame caught up with him, and his tragic life was the talk of the town for months.Buck was open about his past, but he didn't want to draw attention to the fact that he had worked for the FBI until three years ago. After these months in the limelight, things died down, and no one in his community seemed to care much about him any longer, except for his overly curious neighbor, Mrs. Mouse. Not that wasn’t her real name. But Buck felt reminded of one whenever he saw her. However, there was a particular reason for Mrs. Miller’s interest.It had been a while since the bold headlines and the articles with his face had faded into obscurity. Despite the passage of time, his former colleagues occasionally sought his expert opinion. On one occasion, he even agreed to help with a facial reconstruction. On that particular day, Buck and Jee were working on a birdhouse in the backyard when Mrs. Gray came over to give them a batch of her homemade Irish stew. She thought Buck and Jee were eating too little and unhealthily. As usual, the elderly lady walked through the garage when her eyes fell on the half-finished skull. With a bloodcurdling scream that alarmed the entire neighborhood, she dropped the pot, spilling the stew all over the garage floor. The incident brought her close to a heart attack and left her rooted to the spot - which is how Buck found her.It took him about an hour to calm her down and explain that it was just a fake, not a real skull—a blatant lie."But this… it all seems so vivid, so real," she said, shaking like a leaf."Mrs. Gray, it's like that in the movies, yet nobody died, right?"For a while, Buck went by the nickname Frankenstein in some units. He liked Mary Shelley's books, so he didn't mind.Meanwhile, he and Jee had arrived at Hen's house. Jee was excited that they would be staying here for a few days.Buck rang the doorbell, and when Hen opened, Jee wrapped her little arms around her legs."Hey, Jee. Ready to hang out in my house and scare the bad guys away?"She lifted her head without letting go of Hen’s legs, nodded and giggled.Buck and Hen shook hands. "Thanks, Buck, for coming on such short notice. But my boss has landed this mega-deal, and we must ensure we can start the week after New Year's. I'll be spending Christmas at the office this year. But it's all my fault. Why did I have to apply for a job at a cell phone company and have to invite friends over the holidays?" Grinning, Hen rolled her eyes.Buck knew she loved her job, even if it involved more than long hours and lonely nights. Her enthusiasm reminded Buck of himself and his time with the FBI.Hen ruffled Jee's hair, and they cuddled.After a few minutes, she said, "Enough, little lady. I have to get ready."She put Jee into Buck's arms. Laughing, she now ruffled her uncle’s hair."You’re an angel, Buck. I can’t tell how much it means to me you are welcoming my friend Tommy Kinard," Hen said as she put on her coat. "He knows I won't be here, but he couldn't cancel his travel arrangements without losing a fortune. Do you know how the prices for flights quadruple during the holiday season? Maybe you could help him settle in and lift his spirits. He's been going through a tough time and needed to take some time off. I've already prepared the guest room. You and Jee are welcome to stay in the master bedroom.""Did you and he ever hook up?” Buck cleared his throat. “I mean, just to avoid any awkward conversations," Buck smirked."I wish," Hen sighed. "But Tommy's playing for the other team."She grinned at Buck's surprised look and added, "Don't worry, my friend. He knows how to behave."Buck opened the door for her, "I will be the perfect host. I promise. Jee and I have everything under control. What do you think, my favorite girl in the world?"Jee nodded. Little did they know...Hen said goodbye and headed to the waiting Uber. Buck and Jee waved until the car vanished around the corner. Then Buck went into the garage and returned with two shovels. He handed the smaller one to Jee. The snow was heavy, and the shoveling was hard work, but in between, they took breaks to catch their breath and drink some cocoa Buck sprinkled with Marshmallows.When they were done shoveling, they decided to build a snowman. They rolled the snow into big balls and piled them on each other, taking their time and ensuring each ball was the right size and shape. Buck helped Jee lift the snowball to make the snowman's head. The little girl was thrilled, and they both laughed as Buck pretended to be the snowman, holding a stick for an arm and a rock for a nose.Admiring their creation, Buck proudly said, "Look how perfect he is! He's got black coal eyes, a carrot nose, and a black hat on top!” Jee was all excited, nodded and giggled.They were about to return to the entrance door when their attention was caught by a taxi that pulled up at the neighbor’s house. The man who got out of the cab was responsible for the bump on Buck's head that he was sporting even days later. He was tall, had dark wavy hair, and wore dark sunglasses. An elegant purple coat complemented his handsome appearance.Buck got so distracted that he forgot about the lamppost before him and ran straight into it, causing Jee to laugh. Buck felt his cheeks redden with embarrassment. Luckily, no one seemed to have noticed the incident apart from Jee and probably the stranger, who might have mistaken him for the village idiot by now.The cab driver put a trolley next to the man and drove off. Buck touched his head carefully as he looked at the stranger, who seemed somewhat lost.Meanwhile, curiosity got the better of Jee, and she intently examined the trolley with her little fingers."Jee, stop it. You can't just paw through this gentleman's belongings," Buck scolded her.But Jee became agitated and began frantically shaking the suitcase, shouting, "Help!”Buck immediately rushed to her side and pulled her away, “I’m sorry, sir. She has a thing for suitcases. God only knows in what this obsession turns when she gets older.”In return, the stranger gave him a broad smile, “Yes, women and their bags. No worries. Your little girl seems to be a ray of sunshine. She’s got a contagious laugh.”Buck was surprised and blushed at the unexpected compliment. "Thank you. Yes, she is."Stop acting like a teenager on a first date, Buck thought."May I ask for your help?" the man asked.Buck's eyes widened, and he squeezed Jee's tiny hand a little too tight, making her squeal."Oops, sorry, little lady," Buck apologized, crouched next to her, took her little hand and blew on it a few times. All the while, the stranger kept rooted in place and waited patiently.After Buck, was done, he turned his attention to the stranger, "What can I do for you?""Is this Hen Wilson's house?" he asked.Something dawned on Buck. "Are you… Are you Tommy Kinard?""Yes, I am," he replied, smiling.Buck felt a swarm of butterflies attacking his stomach. Okay…"Hi, I'm Evan Buckley," he greeted and held out his hand."Nice to meet you," Tommy replied without taking it."Oh," Buck thought."Which way?" Tommy asked."I'd say here," Buck replied petulantly, almost tripping over Jee, who was fighting a losing battle with the trolley.Only now that Tommy was about to face him, Buck saw the white cane in his hand."Holy shit, so handsome and so blind," Buck muttered.“Excuse me, did you just say something?”"No."Buck immediately bit his tongue. That’s what Hen meant when she told him to help Tommy adapt. Buck was slightly overwhelmed, to put it mildly, but picked up the luggage and offered Tommy his other arm while sending Jee ahead to open the door for them."Careful, there are some stairs," Buck told Tommy as they stood at the entrance to the yard."Thought so," Smiling, he tapped his cane."Of course, I must be blind, I mean… sorry, Mr. Kinard.""I'd prefer you call me Tommy,” he said, ignoring Buck’s nervous remark.The blond hoped Tommy couldn’t hear his heart thundering in his chest. If this were a cartoon, he would probably have steam coming out of his ears.Buck put the trolley in the guest room and gave their guest a tour of the house. Tommy confessed that it might take him some time to find his way around, but with the help of Buck and Jee, it shouldn't be a problem.When the trio returned to the guest room, Buck took Tommy's coat to hang in the foyer, followed by Jee, who removed her jacket, shoes, scarf, and cap, leaving them strewn about the room, then holding her stomach, complaining about how hungry she was before she ran off.Buck followed and found her beside Tommy, who meticulously mapped the room, memorizing every detail. In between, he checked the time on his watch by snapping open the glass lid. Immediately, Jee wanted to know more about this unique watch."Jee, stop pestering our guest and behave. Be careful with Tommy. He isn’t one of your playground buddies," Buck reminded her."It’s okay. I'm sure I'm a novelty to her," Tommy replied, smiling.Not just to her, Buck thought."Is it too much to ask that you keep an eye on... shucks, I mean... 'cause I have to cook. You're eating with us, right?" Buck babbled as he always did when he was nervous."Depends. Has anyone died after trying your food?" Tommy joked.No, but I could. If I’m not preventing myself from turning into a drooling mess, then slip on the drool and break my neck, Buck thought.But said aloud, "Not that I know of. And if they had any complaints, I'm sure they couldn't tell.""Touché," Tommy deadpanned, tickling Jee, who giggled.Buck turned in super-slow motion to memorize Tommy's face so he wouldn't forget it when chopping onions and dream-walking around the kitchen.This time he banged his knee on the door frame, "Shit," he cursed."Are you all right?" Tommy asked."Thank you, I'm fine," Buck said hastily.Buck thought as he pulled open the drawer that using a well-sharpened kitchen knife in his condition bordered on a death wish. Luckily, cooking was one of his passions, and he knew how to wield a knife.

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It was touching to see little Jee holding Tommy's hand while leading him into the kitchen to his seat at the dining table. Buck noticed that Tommy was now wearing different glasses.Get a grip, Buck. Stop staring at this guy as if he were the main attraction in a show arena, Buck scolded himself.Tommy smiled. "It smells delicious.""Thank you. It's just steak, mashed potatoes and vegetables—nothing fancy," Buck said, dismissing his cooking skills.Jee and Tommy sat down. Buck served the plates. Unsure what to do next, he asked, “Do you need anything? I put the steak to the right and the mashed potatoes and vegetables to the left.”“Thanks,” Tommy replied, using his fork to map the plate."What would you like to drink, beer or wine? Jee and I will have lemonade," Buck said."I'll take one, too."All three of them ate with great appetite. Buck cut Jee's meat, side-glancing at their guest in fascination. Tommy used his fork to guide the knife when cutting the steak. He made everything he did look so easy. Buck wasn't sure if he could master that.Tommy pointed out how delicious the food was more than once. Not a crumb was left on his plate."Thank you, Evan. I can't remember the last time I had a meal that tasted as good as this."They chatted for a while. Outside, the sun bathed everything in a bright light."Let's go for a little walk," Buck suggested."Yeah, can we go to the playground," Jee bounced excitedly on her chair."Sounds like a plan. Wanna join us, Tommy?" Buck asked, hoping he would say yes, which he did."I'll just change into something more comfortable," As soon as Tommy stood, Jee was at his side again to hold his hand.Buck admired his niece for how comfortable she was with this guy and wished he could feel the same way. However, it wasn't just Tommy's blindness that bothered him. The man was getting under his skin because Buck sensed something awakening inside him that he hadn't experienced in a long time.After finishing the dishes and putting everything away, Buck was stunned when he walked into the foyer and found himself face to face with both fully dressed and waiting.Buck beamed at Jee, "Wow, you look pretty.""Do you talk to me or Jee?" Tommy smirked."I-I mean Jee and-and you. Of course."The little girl smiled brightly and tugged at Tommy's pants.Tommy turned to her, putting his finger to his mouth, "Shh."Jee mimicked him, making Buck laugh, who took his winter jacket off the hook, and they left.It was a beautiful day, albeit cold, and the fallen snow sparkled in the sun like someone had sprinkled diamonds on it. Curious glances followed them as they walked down the street. Buck was an eye-catcher in his red winter jacket. Together with Tommy, they caught even more attention. He wore a dark turtleneck, a beige winter jacket, faded blue jeans stretching over his muscular thighs down his long legs, and black boots that completed the look.  Buck wondered what color Tommy's eyes were since he hadn't taken off his sunglasses the whole time. If it hadn't been for his white cane, no one would have guessed he was blind."Buck, would you describe to me what you see?" asked Tommy.At first, Buck hardly knew what to say, but then the words started to flow, "To your right, across the street, is Miss Bishop's grocery store, a real institution. It's as old as she is. We've got 1950 over there, and I love its flair."He was interrupted in his descriptions by people greeting him. Buck was a well-known and liked guy around here, and of course, everyone was curious about the sexy stranger at his side. When Randy, the owner of the bookstore at the end of the street, walked by with Skippy, a black Labrador, Buck stopped to scratch the dog behind his ears. Jee hid behind her uncle."Come on, you know Skippy. He's nice. You don't have to be afraid of him," Buck said.But Jee preferred to keep her distance. Buck asked Randy if Xander Tyler’s new book was already out.“Not yet, Buck, I’m sorry. But I have your phone number, and I call you as soon as we get the delivery.”"God, I admire this guy. I love his stories about this planet called Ealdor and the black fairies and…”Next to him, Tommy broke into a coughing fit. But recovered pretty quickly."Are you all right?" Buck asked worriedly."Yes, I'm fine. I just suddenly got a scratchy throat. I don't know why.""Is your friend okay?" Randy inquired.Buck nodded."Like I said, I'll get back to you. Have a good afternoon." Randy clicked his tongue, the dog was immediately at his side, and they walked away.Jee clung to Tommy's pant leg, telling him she'd care for him. Her chin quivered, and tears welled in her big brown eyes."Jee, sweetie, it's okay. Tommy's fine," Buck reassured her. Almost simultaneously, both men crouched before the little girl to comfort her at eye level."Gramps used to cough like that. Then she went to the hospital and never came home," Jee said.Buck closed his eyes briefly, turned his head to the side and muttered, "Oh, dear." It was just loud enough for Tommy to hear.Then he turned back to Jee. "Gramps was very sick. It has nothing to do with Tommy. Do you understand?""Promise?""Promise!"Jee held up her little finger, "Pinky swear.""Pinky swear," Buck replied first, then Tommy followed suit with some help from Buck. After the little ritual, they stood up and walked on.Though Tommy hadn't asked, Buck explained: "My mom died of lung cancer. It was terrible to watch. Jee remembers those days a lot. Whenever I cough, she panics. And she seems to like you so much that she reacts the same way if you cough.""I'm sorry. I really didn't mean to scare her," Tommy apologized, feeling guilty."Please don't worry, how should you know?" Buck reassured him and suggested, "Let's change the subject. How come you don't have a guide dog?""Woof, woof, woof," Jee said, bouncing happily before them."I get that question a lot," Tommy said. "And I swear I considered it. But I decided against it. I get around without one so far. Some of my children have guide dogs."Buck's heart skipped a beat, "You-you have children?""Oh yes. Eight so far."Buck paled, "Eight?""Yes, sometimes more, sometimes less," Tommy replied, barely holding back a grin. He could hear the tinge of panic in the other man’s voice.Buck knitted his brows. He opened his mouth to speak but found himself searching for words."I teach blind and visually impaired children," Tommy said eventually."Oh, well, that sounds great," Buck couldn't hide the relief in his voice."Tell me, what is a typical day at work like?""You want to know about my job?""Yes," Buck replied, and Tommy seemed a bit surprised."Well, I start around eight-thirty. The first class is at nine. I teach English Braille, reading and writing, so there might be theory or exams to prepare for.""How old are your students?""They range from six to sixteen. I have different classes for different ages."They arrived at the playground.Buck cleared a bench from the snow as best as he could while Jee's path led directly to the small wooden tower, one of her favorites. Buck watched as Tommy ran his hand along the back of the bench, then felt the seat before sitting down. Little things like checking the seat were something Buck always took for granted because he saw it. It amazed him how skilled Tommy was."Guaranteed free of bird poop," Buck joked.Tommy chuckled, "God, I hope so, thanks." He sat down beside Buck."We're looking at a little provincial playground with lots of wood and old-fashioned swings," Buck told Tommy. "Just down there on the right, about a hundred yards away, is another bench and some trees."Buck thought about his directions or lack thereof. "Was that okay, or not clear enough? Please tell me if I'm not explaining something properly."Tommy shook his head and replied politely, "It's fine." After a second, he added, "People generally give directions according to the face of the clock. So, where on the clock's face is the bench?""Well, um, about nine o'clock."Tommy smiled. "Bench, nine o'clock, a hundred yards. Simple, see?"Buck also smiled, "Right."From the other side, Mrs. Thomson and little Theodor approached them. He was a year younger than Jee and smitten with her. When Jee spotted him, she had to show what she was made of, used the climbing rope, and dangled deftly. Theodor squealed with delight and applauded.Mrs. Thomson approached the two men, "Hello, Buck, who's your handsome companion?""My name is Tommy Kinard," he introduced himself, holding out his hand."Pleased to meet you. I'm Martha Thomson, and that's my Theodore over there." They shook hands.Buck thought she had no idea that Tommy was blind."Seems like a nice boy," he continued."He's got a crush on Jee. Don't they look cute together?"Jee already climbed down to meet Theodore. Shyly, he gave her a peck on the cheek."How cute," Buck said, explaining what just happened so Tommy was in the loop. "The feeling seems mutual, considering he just pecked her on the cheek,” added Miss Thomson."Jee is such a sweet girl. Just like her father." She winked at Buck."And Tommy, what about you? Do you have any children?""More than I can handle sometimes. They fill a classroom," he said with a grin.Mrs. Thompson's jaw dropped."He's a teacher," Buck explained before she got any ideas."But Buck and I are considering adopting another child or two." Tommy enjoyed confusing the curious lady.Her jaw dropped for the second time.It was Jee who inadvertently saved her uncle from this bizarre situation. Theodore swung like Tarzan on one of the ropes. Being competitive as she was, Jee took the other and promptly slipped off, only to land on her butt rather unceremoniously. The scream made everyone jump."Jee!" Buck rushed to her.Theodore was already crouched beside his crush, trying to cradle her. But Jee didn't care as she screamed at the top of her voice.Buck picked her up. "It's okay," he reassured, ruffling her hair and holding her close, "Everything’s fine. You hear me? Where does it hurt?""My butt," she sobbed, rubbing her eyes."How about we go home, and I'll make you some hot cocoa?" Buck suggested."Is she okay?" Mrs. Thomson approached him, followed by Tommy."Yeah, I think she was just in shock."Jee reached out to Tommy when she saw him."She wants you to hold her. Is that okay?" Buck asked."Sure," Tommy replied.As they exchanged the cane for the child, Miss Thomson realized Tommy's disability."I had no idea," she muttered, casting a pitying glance at Tommy and Buck."See you around, guys and all the best to you both," she said, clearly affected. She took her son by the hand, and they left."What's wrong?" Tommy wanted to know."She didn't realize you were blind until now," Buck explained."It happens a lot," a smile flitted across his beautiful lips.Jee wrapped her arms around Tommy's neck and fell asleep."I think we should go home," Buck said.He was amazed at how confidently Tommy moved, even though he was carrying Jee. They linked arms, and Buck's fingers curled around the folded cane in his other hand.Now we look like a little family, Buck thought dreamily and felt a knot forming in his throat. When they got home, he took Jee and carried her upstairs to the bedroom, where he put the little girl in her SpongeBob pajamas and tucked her in. He kissed Jee gently on the forehead, which she promptly acknowledged with a sigh.Buck returned to the guest room, where Tommy put the audiobook equipment on the nightstand."Can I help?" Buck asked, hoping Tommy wouldn't take it as a pitying gesture on his part."Already done," he proudly showed Buck his empty suitcase, then zipped it up and shoved it behind the door."What now?""How about watching TV?" Tommy suggested."Yeah, sure," Buck agreed, taking his hand.Realizing what he had done, he apologized, "Sorry, I hope this is okay with you, I just...""Don't worry, it's fine with me. I might get used to it," Tommy replied, scrunching his face in the way that Buck found simply adorable."Are you really okay with us watching TV? I mean, if I-I watch and you..." Buck's voice trailed off."You seem confused," Tommy's voice sounded mischievous."I am," Buck admitted hesitantly."Hey, I can't see. That doesn't mean I can't listen."They sat on the couch."True," Buck replied."Besides, I wasn't always blind. Until nine years ago, I could see, but with difficulty," he told Buck. "My eyes slowly got worse. It's an extremely rare genetic disease. I knew that one day, it would get dark around me. That's why I memorized everything all the more intensely to remember it. It's the same with movies. I still have images from the time I watched them. Crazy, isn't it?""I don't think so. I admire how you deal with it," Buck muttered, flipped through Hen's DVDs and smiled when he came across a certain movie. “How about Love Actually?""Yes, Great choice, Evan. It's one of my favorites. Maybe there'll be popcorn and a soft drink, then I can imagine I'm at the movies."Buck laughed, "Right away, sir. And yes, it's also one of mine." Buck hoped to make it through the movie somehow without ending up in Tommy's lap. Why didn't he choose Die Hard or any other action movie?A few minutes later, he returned with two glasses and a large bowl of popcorn, put everything on the table and then plopped down on the couch.The movie was about to start when Tommy suddenly asked, "What do you look like?"The question came as a surprise to Buck, and he paused the DVD. "Um, I don't know. Just average, I-I guess."Tommy remained silent for a long moment, but Buck could tell he was thinking by the wrinkles on his forehead."Can I ... touch you?"Buck's eyes went big until it dawned on him."Oh, of course." That was how Tommy saw, using his hands instead of his eyes.He inched closer and turned to face Tommy, who felt the heat radiating from Buck's body. First, he ran a hand over Buck's chest, his solid pecs and six-pack abs."Impressive," Tommy muttered, making Buck blush.Tommy lifted his hand to trace Buck's face, eyebrows, and temples. When he came across Buck’s Birthmark, he stopped, “What’s this? A scar?”Buck swallowed before answering, “No, it’s a-a birthmark. It’s reddish. Many people consider it a scar, though.”“I see.”"What color is your hair?" asked Tommy."Light Brown, I guess.""And your eyes?""Blue."Then his fingers traced Buck's jawline, his stubbly chin and his lips.Buck fought not to lean in and kiss this guy whose hot breath ghosted over his face.Instead, he cleared his throat and said, still hoarsely, "Do-do I pass?"Tommy bit his lower lip and whispered, "Oh, yes, you pass." After clearing his throat, he asked a little louder, "But what is this bump on your forehead?”“That’s nothing.”"It's as big as an egg, so don't tell me it's nothing."Buck thought about it. "Okay, I'll tell you. But you have to promise not to laugh?""Pinky swear?" Tommy teased, grinning.Buck also grinned. "Okay, I-I tell you. The reason for the egg-shaped monstrosity on my forehead... is you."Stunned silence."What do you mean I am responsible for it?""When you were standing there in all your glory, I overlooked the lamppost in front of me and walked right into it."Tommy shook his head. "In all my glory? That sounds strange." Despite his best efforts, he couldn't help but start laughing. "And you really didn’t see the lamppost?" Tommy snorted and laughed even harder."That’s-That’s not funny, Tommy. So not funny.""Of course, it's funny. I'm used to getting all kinds of reactions. But I swear, nobody's ever walked into a lamppost because of me," Tommy explained, gasping for air.His laughter was contagious. Buck considered Tommy's little snorts swoon-worthy.

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The movie ended, and Jee stood in the living room holding her teddy bear in one hand."Hey, little princess. What's up?" Buck asked."I'm hungry," she replied and yawned heartily."How about sandwiches?" Buck suggested.Tommy and Jee agreed.Buck asked his niece to help him in the kitchen, but she shook her head, hurried over to Tommy, climbed onto his lap, and put the teddy bear into his hands. In the kitchen, Buck prepared dinner. He loved cooking for himself and his niece, but sometimes, something was missing as he and Jee were usually alone. He was glad to have another adult around. After setting the table, Buck went to get Jee and Tommy. He was about to enter the room when the heartwarming scene unfolded in front of him. Neither Tommy nor Jee noticed him. So, Buck leaned against the doorframe, crossed his arms over his chest and watched. Tommy listened intently to Jee's description of her teddy bear, Mr. Snickerdoodles, while also asking her questions and engaging in a way that Buck found fascinating.He did not doubt Tommy was a great teacher and admired by his students. His heart began to melt when he saw his little niece and Tommy together. The longing for a family war is overwhelming. He had felt it before, but since Tommy came into their lives, suppressing it was no longer possible. He swallowed a few times. How could it be he felt so connected to someone he just met? For the first time since the tragic death of his sister and her husband, he felt whole again.Buck had always known he was bisexual. In hindsight, he couldn't say which sex he was more attracted to. He had sexual encounters with both. However, he had never told Taylor about it. She would probably have dropped dead due to her arch-conservative upbringing.Buck's thoughts took on a life of their own. Suddenly, he was back to where it all started, and his life had turned into a dumpster fire practically overnight.During excavation work for a hotel complex, the remains of four skeletal corpses were discovered. Three men and one woman. Although Buck reconstructed the faces of all four, only two men could be identified. At the same time, remains were found in another state. These remains were not yet fully decomposed.As the investigation uncovered more and more details, the task force concluded that the deaths of these eleven people were connected and that a serial killer was on the loose. The eerie thing about the case was that the male victims resembled Buck in height and build. But Buck dismissed that as a simple coincidence. Little did he know. The FBI later argued that the extensive media coverage of the forensics team led by Buck might have attracted the serial's attention, potentially making him victim number twelve.Even after all this time, Buck's subconscious hid most of what Simon Lewis, the psychopath, had done to him. Now and then, fragments of memories popped up in his mind. Buck remembered the basement where he had been held captive and tortured for days, with electric shocks, waterboarding, a blow torch and sleep deprivation. Simon Lewis had enjoyed every single minute of it. The stench of decay lingered whenever Buck decided to dig deeper into his past. Towards the end of his captivity, Lewis stopped Buck's heart several times with Digitalis and then revived him.When SWAT and FBI found him six days later, he was more dead than alive. Lewis initially managed to escape but was captured the same day. During a wild shootout with the police, he died in a hail of bullets. The motive for his killings remained largely unknown.Buck's marriage did not survive the ordeal. After he was rescued, Tayler almost immediately filed for divorce. She didn't even wait for him to leave the hospital. It took Buck about a year to recover from his abduction. Returning to his job was no longer an option for him. He wanted to distance himself from anything and everything to do with it. Then, his sister Maddy and her husband were killed in a terrible car accident on their way to their anniversary dinner date. Little Jee was at home with the babysitter. With the help of a clever lawyer and some connections, Buck managed to get custody of his niece.His mind was so troubled that his voice almost failed when he called Jee and Tommy to join him in the kitchen. While Jee didn't notice it, Tommy, whose heightened sense of hearing picked up even the slightest nuances, realized that something was wrong with Buck.Jee sat at the table and took a sandwich. Buck had his back on her and did the dishes. He didn't want his niece to see him so upset and startled when Tommy suddenly stood behind him and gently grabbed his shoulder. This gesture of affection was the final straw. Buck held on to the edge of the sink while tears streamed down his face.Tommy asked, "Evan, what's wrong?" in a concerned but low voice so that Jee couldn't hear it."Nothing, nothing at all. I'm fine. I need a moment." Then he wiped his eyes with the back of his hand and turned around, forgetting Tommy couldn't see him. They bumped into each other. Buck felt Tommy's breath on his skin and inhaled the scent of his aftershave."I think we should keep Jee company," Buck hurried to say, running a hand over his face."If you want, we can talk about it later," Tommy offered in a soothing and gentle tone as he stepped aside to let Buck pass, who hid his inner turmoil behind a forced smile. Tommy admired his friend for not falling apart in front of the little girl.While Jee was enjoying her sandwich, Buck enthusiastically described the assortment of sandwiches he had lovingly prepared: classic ham piled high with lettuce, a juicy chicken sandwich with a hint of tangy sauce, a rich cheese sandwich that melted in the mouth, and a creamy egg salad made with herbs. When Tommy chose the chicken sandwich, Jee playfully imitated a clucking chicken, and they burst into laughter, adding a lighthearted moment Buck desperately needed. After finishing her sandwich, Jee eagerly reached for one of the homemade cookies that her uncle had arranged on another plate."Cookies go best with milk," she said."Wow, she has worked up quite an appetite," Tommy remarked as Buck poured her a glass of milk.Looking at Tommy with a smile, he replied, "I think we feel the same way. It just tastes better when there's a nice guest in the house."Jee nodded in agreement, and Buck stood there for a few more heartbeats, totally smitten with Tommy Kinard.A little later, he glanced at the clock and knew it was time for his niece to go to bed. Like many children her age, she tried to play for time. Buck was familiar with this and used his charm to convince her. But before she followed him upstairs, she grabbed Tommy's hand and asked him to come with her.Helping Jee brush her teeth and their usual evening routine distracted Buck somewhat from his gloomy thoughts."Buck, please, a bedtime story," Jee begged.They went with Cinderella.As Buck read from the book, Tommy sat quietly beside him. Now and then, a smile would flit across his face because Jee's uncle was putting a lot of effort into it. He used different voices to bring the characters to life rather than just stubbornly reading aloud. By reaching page six of the book, Jee was fast asleep. Carefully, Buck tucked her in, kissed her on the forehead and went back downstairs with Tommy, ensuring that his blind friend descended the stairs safely.They entered the kitchen, where Buck cleared the dining table and arranged everything.At some point, Tommy broke the silence by asking, "Do you want to talk about it?"His voice sounded genuinely concerned. The lump in Buck's throat grew bigger."I don't want to burden you with my problems," Buck said in a weak voice."I'm a good listener," Tommy encouraged him.Buck turned off the light, and they went into the guest room to sit side by side on Tommy's bed. A soft beam from a streetlamp illuminated the room enough for Buck to see Tommy, who, that was sure, didn't mind sitting in the dark."Are you going to tell me what's bothering you?" Tommy made another attempt."I don't know. It's just… When I saw you sitting there with Jee, I had all sorts of flashbacks," Buck admitted. "We've been alone for about three years now. And I… we're coping. We really are. But.…""But sometimes it can get pretty lonely," Tommy added."Are you seeing someone, Tommy?""Nope, not since I lost my sight." Tommy stifled a grin when Buck realized the phrasing of his question, blushing up to his ears. "Oh, shucks. Damn it, Tommy. That's not what I... I meant... I'm so sorry."Tommy placed a hand on Buck's thigh. The warmth emanating from it made Buck even more nervous. His mouth went dry."Don't worry about it, Evan. I was only joking. You wanted to know if I was dating someone. The answer is no. And it's been a while since I did." By scrunching up his face in that adorable way, he added, "Sometimes, I think I'm not boyfriend material. But then—maybe if the right one comes along…" His voice trailed off, and Buck wasn't sure if Tommy's last remark hinted in a particular direction.But before he could follow this thought, Tommy cleared his throat and said, "Evan, you're allowed to say things like 'You should have seen this or that' or 'Are you seeing someone?' I swear I'm not offended."Relieved, Buck exhaled and rubbed his palms on his thighs. "I'm sorry."Tommy grinned at him. "Stop apologizing. It's not necessary. I'm a big boy who can take more than you think."Buck sighed, unsure what to do next."I don't think we are done talking. I told you I'm a good listener," Tommy reminded him."How about we make ourselves more comfortable?" Buck suggested.Tommy frowned. He felt Buck move around him as he crawled onto the bed and settled back against the headrest. Tommy followed him. They sat there in silence for a while.And then Buck opened up. It was like a dam breaking. The words didn't come easily to him at first. But the longer he spoke, the more the words were flowing. Buck told Tommy about Taylor, his abduction and the moment he took Jee in his arms to bring her home. In between, Tommy put his arm protectively around Buck's shoulders and pulled him close.When Buck had finished, he said, "And tomorrow evening, we'll talk about Tommy Kinard."Although they laughed, Tommy thought, "I don't think you'd like what I would have to tell you. Unfortunately, at some point I have to. But not now. I don't want to spoil this… whatever... moment."Buck sat up, "Tommy, may I ask you something?""Sure." He was glad for the distraction."Would you take off your glasses for me? I want to see your eyes."Tommy froze, but Buck gently squeezed his thigh to encourage him, "Please?"Finally, Tommy said, "I don't often take them off in front of others. Let alone strangers.""Though we just met, I hope you don't consider me a stranger," Buck objected and switched on the lamp on the nightstand.He thought Tommy was about to dismiss him as he slowly raised his hand to his face. He took off his glasses but kept his head turned to the side. His eyes were closed. After giving him a moment, Buck hooked his finger under Tommy's chin and slowly turned his head so that he could look at him. When Tommy opened his eyes, Buck gasped.Oh my God! He had never seen eyes like this before. Tommy waited for an answer, and Buck swallowed nervously before speaking. His words barely above a whisper: "Your eyes are so blue!"Tommy shrugged, "They're useless."Buck cupped his friend's face with both hands to keep him from turning away. "They're beautiful, Tommy."He didn't know what he had expected. They weren't deformed or looking in different directions. Tommy's eyes looked normal, except for the striking blue color."Tommy," Buck said quietly. "They're not useless. They're just beautiful, and they're a part of you. They make you who you are."Buck knew it was a big sign of trust that Tommy showed his eyes.He slowly extricated himself from Buck's gentle grip, put the glasses on the bedside table and got on his knees, pulling Buck with him."What?" Buck asked.Tommy gave him a faux stare."What if I kissed you right now?""Come again," Buck muttered, not sure he heard it right."What if I kissed you right now?" Tommy repeated in a choked voice."Try me," Buck offered hoarsely.Their lips were only inches apart. Buck's pulse raced as he closed his eyes, feeling Tommy's hand gently reach for his neck to pull him in for a kiss.Buck shivered in anticipation as their lips finally met. Tommy felt it and smiled into the kiss, exploring Buck's lips as if he had studied a map and wanted to see if it matched his imagining. Tommy gently prodded Buck's mouth, testing the softness of his lower lip and tracing the contours of his upper lip with his tongue. Buck savored the pressure of their mouths and bodies. He couldn't recall ever being kissed like this before. When Tommy's tongue slipped into his mouth, Buck was ready, met it with his own and slung his arms around Tommy to deepen the kiss. Tommy's body was warm and firm, and his scent was pure.They fell onto their sides, and Tommy lay half on Buck, pinning him down with his weight. Buck ran his fingers over Tommy's back and felt the play of his muscles under the turtleneck. As they came up for air, Tommy rolled onto his back. His blind eyes stared at the ceiling."I'm sorry, I got lost in the moment," he apologized in a low voice."There's nothing to apologize for," Buck replied."Oh yes, there is. You were vulnerable, and I was taking advantage of you. That's not okay.""Tommy, you didn't have to wrestle me into submission," Buck replied, almost a little offended and with his heart hammering in his chest."So, you're okay with it?" Tommy asked."Of course. Don't be silly. I'd have told you if I'd been uncomfortable."Buck turned on his side and propped his head up on his elbow.He playfully ran his index finger along Tommy's prominent jawline: "I can't believe you came into my life and took my heart by storm." Buck furrowed his brow and shook his head.Tommy felt the movement and asked, "What?""That sounded a bit cheesy, didn't it?"They both grinned."I bet I can top that," Tommy countered. "Evan Buckley, you are the best Christmas gift I have ever received—you and little Jee. And we may be onto something here, even if we don't know where it will lead. It could be the moon…""It could be the stars. In the worst case, it could lead us into the abyss… Tommy, you just recited the final words of Xander Tyler's last novel. Are you familiar with the author? Do you know his books?"Tommy cursed himself for being so thoughtless but didn't let anything on. "I might have read one or two of his books. He's good," he replied, changing the subject rather quickly, "Would you mind staying the night? I swear I won't try anything. I just don't want to be alone.""As far as I’m concerned, you can try anything you want. I’m open to it. But it’s also okay if I just lie here next to you," Buck chuckled.With that, they snuggled up and eventually fell asleep fully dressed.

----- CHAPTER BREAK -----

It was Jee who rudely jolted them from their slumber. She leaped onto the bed with a loud yell, landing squarely on Buck and using his belly as a makeshift trampoline."Get up, get up," her bell-like voice echoed through the house.Startled, Tommy bolted upright, "What, where, how? Where am I?"Buck burst into laughter, unable to contain his amusement. Tommy looked utterly adorable, his curls standing up in all directions, giving him a disoriented yet charming appearance."Welcome to Buckley's madhouse," Buck shouted.Jee giggled madly. Buck's belly had served as a trampoline. Now, she turned her attention to Tommy."Be careful, Jee," Buck warned him."It's okay," Tommy said. But Jee took her uncle's warning seriously and was uber-careful until Tommy started to tickle her.Buck watched the two of them and wondered if Maddie had an affair with a chimpanzee because Jee was hanging on Tommy's neck like a little monkey.Tommy reached behind him and pulled Jee forward with a deft swing."Here comes the scary hand, here comes the scary hand," he threatened her.Tommy's right hand formed a playful claw, circling over Jee before diving in to tickle her. She squealed with uncontrollable laughter, wriggling with joy. Buck chuckled at the sight—kids will be kids, he mused as he got up. Just as he headed towards the bathroom, his phone chirped. Glancing at the caller ID, he saw it was Hen."Lady Hen's residence, butler Buck speaking."Silence.Suddenly, Hen laughed, "Hi Buck, you're such a dork. Just checking in to see how you are."Jee squealed again."Jeez, what the hell is going on?" Hen asked, baffled."Oh, nothing," Buck replied. "Your friend Tommy is Jee's and my new playmate. I mean… Oof, that came out wrong."Hen chuckled."He's good with children, isn't he?" she asked.Buck scratched the back of his head, "Well, not just with children, dear Hen.""Tommy is gorgeous, charming, a perfect gentleman." Hen gushed, then sighed. "I forgot to tell you, he is blind, the poor fellow.""I think he's handling it well. He doesn't need pity," Buck said, his voice growing a little chilly."Yeah, um, I guess you're right," she admitted sheepishly."I'm sorry, Hen," Buck added quickly. "It's just... well, I don't know."You like him, Buck, don't you?"
Busted!
"So, how's your job?" Buck changed the subject."Oh, well, some things are not going as planned, so I wanted to ask if you would mind if I stayed a few more days longer."Buck's pulse quickened. More time alone with Tommy and Jee. "No, Hen, not at all. Take as much time as you need. We have everything covered."Buck heard someone calling her name."I have to go, Buck. Kiss Jee and Tommy for me," her voice sounded naughty."Of course, Mistress Hen," Buck joked.He ended the call and headed to the bathroom. When he returned, he found Jee and Tommy sitting on the bed. Jee, now wearing Tommy's glasses, was bombarding him with questions. Tommy, with endless patience and a warm smile, answered each one."Jee, stop interrogating our guest."Tommy shook his head. "No worries. It's okay. As a teacher, I'm used to it.""Okay, but I warned you," Buck grinned. "How about I take care of the little rug rat, and you take a shower?""That sounds great." Tommy got up, grabbed some clothes and put them on the bed. Then he said, "If you can show me...""Yeah, of course, no problem. Come on, Jee. We'll show Tommy the shower."Jee sniffed at Tommy. "Yeah, he's a little stinky.""Excuse me? I am not stinky," Tommy objected with feigned insult.Buck grabbed Jee and Tommy's hands, "Guys, shut up. Daddy's taking care of you both.""Jee, did he just say daddy?" Tommy asked.She giggled as Buck threw her over his shoulder. "Tommy shut up, or I'll throw you over the other shoulder.""Oh, Daddy, I would love to see that," Tommy played along.With laughter still echoing, the trio strolled into the bathroom. Buck guided Tommy around, pointing out where everything was situated. "Here's your towel," Buck said, placing a soft, fluffy towel on the sink. "If you need anything, just give me a shout."Buck wasn't comfortable leaving Tommy alone in the bathroom, so he asked him to keep the door ajar."Don't worry, you have a walk-in shower, and it's not the first time I've had to find my way around a bathroom. But thank you for looking after me." Tommy could sense Buck's lingering uncertainty, an overabundance of caution in his every gesture. Although his worry was unwarranted, Tommy appreciated his efforts.Buck made coffee and cocoa for Jee, hoping to distract him. Still, his nerves were slightly frayed, especially after yesterday's kiss. Due to Jee's presence, they hadn’t had a chance to talk about it.About fifteen minutes later, Tommy emerged from the bathroom, a towel wrapped around his waist and damp hair clinging to his forehead. Buck couldn't help but stare as Tommy walked confidently into the guest room, betraying no hint of his blindness. As Tommy closed the door to keep curious eyes at bay, an indefinable sound escaped Buck's throat."Uncle Buck?" Jee asked, looking at him curiously. In response, Buck ruffled her hair affectionately.When Tommy joined them a few minutes later, he hadn't put his glasses back on. His blue eyes looked even more striking in the daylight, leaving Buck momentarily breathless. Jee ran over to Tommy, wrapping her little arms around his long legs in a tight hug.With Jee still in her pajamas, Buck asked, "Tommy, if you don't mind, I could use a shower too. Can you take care of Jee and help her get dressed?"“Sure, no problem,” Tommy replied, giving Buck a warm smile and effortlessly lifting Jee. Immediately, she planted a wet kiss on his cheek."What was that for?" Tommy asked.Jee shrugged, burying her face in Tommy's neck, blushing. Buck's heart swelled with emotion, but a shadow of worry loomed over him. What would happen when Tommy's vacation ended? He and Jee would be alone again. Pushing the thought aside, Buck pointed to the door and said, "Tommy, if you want to read, the newspaper is just outside."The words had barely left his mouth when he wanted to bite his tongue. Bloody hell. It was odd. Tommy wasn't wearing his glasses, talking to Jee and looking in Buck's direction when they spoke. All this made Buck forget Tommy's handicap. Ashamed, he stood in the doorway. Tommy put Jee back down on the floor and approached him."I'm sorry," Buck mumbled, "I'm such an idiot.""There's nothing to be sorry about. Please don't blame yourself for treating me like everyone else. That's the best you can do," he said and nudged Buck's nose with his. Before Tommy could kiss him, Buck turned on his heel and hurried away.After a refreshing shower, dressed in bleached jeans and a light blue hoodie, Buck felt rejuvenated. Breakfast was next on the agenda. As he approached the kitchen, he heard a woman's voice. Martha Thomson had brought a chocolate cake and was chatting animatedly with Tommy, who had put his glasses back on. They sat around the table with the children. Buck was pleasantly surprised to find Jee neatly dressed in jeans and a novelty Christmas sweater with a cartoon reindeer. Jee's hair was awkwardly parted, a detail that Buck would usually fix with a few playful tousles. Despite this, he smiled, appreciating Tommy's admirable effort.Theodore and Jee happily indulged in their cake, washing it down with glasses of milk. Martha's eyes lit up when she noticed Buck standing in the doorway. "Gosh, you look great," she exclaimed, delighted. "I haven't seen you this happy in a long time."Buck was momentarily speechless, his surprise rendering him silent. Collecting himself, he managed to say, "Good morning, Martha. Thanks for the cake."She dismissed him, "Never mind. I thought a little welcome gift for your handsome guest couldn't go amiss."Unfortunately, Tommy couldn't return the compliment as little Theodore shoved one piece of cake after another into his mouth.He gently took his hand. "Enough, enough, young gentleman," he mumbled, stopping the little boy from making any more affectionate attempts to feed him.Was Tommy the modern-day Pied Piper of Hamelin? It seemed that men, women, and children alike were charmed by him. Martha glanced unhappily at his son's chocolate-smeared hands and mouth. With a sigh, Buck grabbed a kitchen towel, wet it, and meticulously cleaned Theodore's messy face and hands.Martha looked at him admiringly. "Thanks, Buck. That's so sweet of you. By the way, the Christmas market is open today. Why don't you join me and my family later? You can rent ice skates and warm yourself up with mulled wine, eggnog, gingerbread or chestnuts.""Great idea, Martha." Buck's smile grew wider by the minute."Well," she said, her tone firming up with determination. "Theodore and I need to head out now. If we're not back in time to bake cookies, my husband will probably file a missing persons report with Sheriff Grant."As they made their way out, Theodore turned around and waved goodbye to the trio, who returned the gesture."Jee, I'd watch out if I were you. You've got competition," Buck half-joked. She didn't understand what her uncle said but grinned at him anyway.Tommy gave Buck a mock stare. Of course, he had heard the remark. Buck leaned against him, turned his head and kissed the corner of his mouth.While he tidied the kitchen, loaded the washing machine, and pushed snow from one corner of the yard to the other, Tommy and Jee sat together in front of Tommy's laptop. It was a special edition with a Braille display above the keyboard and a voice module that could read texts from the Internet aloud. Currently, it was narrating the fairy tale of Little Red Riding Hood, which Tommy had chosen for Jee."Hey guys," Buck greeted, "I'm going to Mrs. Bishop's store. We need some bread, milk and groceries."They both raised their hands without turning around, and Buck left.The cozy store smelled of freshly baked cookies. Buck was supposed to be next in line, but the stone-faced, hard-of-hearing misanthrope Vincent Gerrard fidgeted impatiently behind him."What's the matter with you, Bishop? Stop chatting. Get to work," he said, earning nothing but scowls. "I'm in a hurry, damn it."Then he babbled unintelligible stuff. Buck rolled his eyes and said loudly, "Okay, if you promise to keep your mouth shut, come on, Vincent, I'll let you go first.""Thanks," he meandered past Buck eagerly.Gerrard typically spent his days lounging at home, but when he ventured out to shop, he transformed into the town’s busiest citizen. In a flurry, he hurriedly bought six eggs, incessantly asking—no fewer than three hundred and twenty times—if they were fresh as if Mrs. Bishop had ever sold anything less than perfect! When he finally exited the store, everyone crossed themselves in relief.A little disgusted, Buck held the scarf before his nose: "He could at least take a shower."Bishop gave him a friendly smile: "He's always been a curmudgeon, Buck, even when he was young. Why do you think he hasn't found a wife yet? Last week, his cat ran away from him. That's telling, and Millicent Ritter dumped him, too."A murmur went through the store. If you wanted to hear the latest gossip, Bishop's Grocery Store was the place to be.She poked her head over the counter, lowering her voice as if sharing a secret. "So, tell me, who's that handsome guy you were walking around with yesterday? I heard he's blind. That's terrible. Is that true?""He's a good friend of Hen's. And yes, he's blind, but no, it's not terrible," Buck replied.After placing his order, Buck couldn't help but notice the whispers behind his back. Years of living here had made him accustomed to such things. His mind drifted back to yesterday, to the kiss he shared with Tommy. The thought of what might come next—ending up in bed together—filled him with anticipation and dread.Buck hesitated. The idea of being completely naked, body next to body, was daunting. He wasn't sure he was ready for that level of intimacy. For now, he preferred Tommy clothed and resolved to keep it that way for a while. Resolutions were always good, even if sticking to them was another matter.

----- CHAPTER BREAK -----

It was already dark outside as Tommy, Jee, and Buck made their way to the Christmas market. Buck carried a backpack with his and Jee's skates and linked arms with Tommy, who had folded his cane and put it in the backpack's side pocket."I haven't been on skates for a while," Tommy said, to Buck's surprise."You're not seriously planning on going out on the ice, right?" Buck's voice sounded alarmed."Oh yes, I am, and you will hold my hand as I do so."On the verge of a panic attack, Buck asked, "Tommy, are you nuts?"His friend laughed, "Hey, what could happen? You can fall on your butt even if you're not blind, right?"Touché."Okay, but if you break any bones, don't blame me," Buck said dryly."No worries, daddy. I promise to be a good boy," Tommy chuckled.Buck had no idea what to think. He accepted Tommy's wish but wasn't convinced it would work.A few minutes ago, Jee had been running ahead, but now she was lurking around a corner with a group of children. As Tommy and Buck approached, the children launched a flurry of snowballs at them, giggling with delight. Never one to back down from a challenge, Buck quickly retaliated with a barrage of snowballs. Amid the chaos, one of the children ran straight into Tommy's arms. The snow at the side of the road was still waist-high, providing ample ammunition for the snowball fight. Tommy grabbed a handful and gleefully rubbed it in Nicolas' face, much to the amusement of the other children. Nicolas, who was the grandson of Buck's neighbor, Mrs. Gray, sputtered and screamed like a banshee but, at the same time, giggled madly."Stop it, sir," he begged. "I swear I'll never do it again.""Whatever, but I know what you look like," Tommy joked, letting him go.The children disappeared into the darkness."I know what you look like?" Buck nudged Tommy's side. "Isn't that a bit cocky, sir?"Tommy grinned from ear to ear and tucked his glasses away for the first time in public. Buck's jaw dropped."Well, I don't think he realized I only accidentally caught him," he replied.When Buck remained silent, Tommy asked, "What?""You... You just took off your glasses. In public."Tommy shrugged, "Someone told me recently how beautiful my eyes are. I think it's time I show them to the world."Buck was glad Tommy couldn't see the tears in his eyes."I am proud of you. I hope you know that," he said in a choked voice."Are you really wearing a Santa hat?" Tommy asked, trying to distract him.Buck nodded, "Yeah, sometimes the old man gets sentimental."It was Tommy's turn to nudge him back while he softly said, "This old man is a romantic in disguise.""Yes, my friend, you might be on to something..."Buck and Tommy were so engrossed in their conversation that they didn’t notice the treacherous patch of ice ahead. Buck slipped, losing his balance and grabbing onto Tommy in a panic. Tommy caught off guard, stumbled along with him. Time seemed to slow as they both fell to the ground. Buck's scream echoed through the air as his back hit the pavement with a thud, momentarily dazing him. Looking up, he saw the night sky above, dotted with stars. Tommy, who had managed to break his fall somewhat, sat beside him on the ground, bewildered and muttering curses under his breath.Jee, who had been watching from a distance, came running, holding her belly from laughing at the sight of the two men sprawled on the ground."Sorry," Buck rolled on his back like a bug, desperately trying to get back on his feet. "I didn't see the ice.""Are we already at the lake?" Tommy asked.Jee threw herself at Tommy, yelling, "Nope, Uncle Buck slipped."The people behind them were full of Schadenfreude when they realized no one got hurt and didn't mind swerving out into the street. Given the weather, everyone left their cars at home anyway."We're blocking the pavement, sort of," Buck said with a sideways glance at his companions, who were having a friendly scuffle."Don't tell me, Evan. I can't see where we are," Tommy replied, laughing.Buck scrambled to his feet, shaking off the snow before reaching out to help Tommy up. He brushed the snow from Tommy's jacket and jeans, ensuring he was clear of the cold remnants."If you want, I can lend you my cane," Tommy joked."Ha. Ha. Ha. Very funny," Buck muttered."Maybe you should think twice about skating," Tommy teased him. "If you can't even walk straight..."He didn't get any further. Buck slapped him playfully on the head, "Zip it, Tommy. No one asked for your opinion.""Uncle Buck, be careful with Uncle Tommy," Jee warned him. Then she took Tommy's hand, and they walked on, leaving Buck stunned behind."You little traitor," Buck muttered, amused. He took out his phone and snapped some pictures of them. His heart melted when he saw Jee holding Tommy's hand, ensuring nothing happened to her big blind friend.Eventually, they reached the lake. While Buck went to get Tommy a pair of skates, he asked Jee to lead their friend to one of the benches by the lake. Whenever the little girl greeted someone, Tommy did the same. After a few minutes, Buck joined them."Would you like me to help you put on your skates?" he asked Tommy, who didn't answer.Instead, he hummed along to the song "All I Want for Christmas" as it echoed over from the Christmas market."Tommy, the question was for you," Buck said."What question? You mean about the skates?"Buck came up behind him, leaned in, and whispered in his ear, "No, I meant the one where I asked if you wanted to jump in the bushes with me for a hot quickie."Initially, Tommy was quiet. Then, with a goofy grin, he said, "Evan, don’t tempt me. And thanks for your offer, but I'm fine. Go help Jee." Tommy's knack for navigating every situation with grace and humor always amazed Buck.Jee could hardly wait to be on the ice when she spotted Theodore and his mother on the frozen lake.The sight that met Buck's eyes was breathtaking. The organizers had outdone themselves. Torches had been placed around the lake, casting a warm glow over its icy surface. Although Tommy couldn't see it, Buck animatedly used his hands to paint a vivid picture with his words, describing the entire scene in detail."It's a romantic atmosphere, and I have a gorgeous man by my side. What more could I ask for?" Tommy said in a low voice. Were there tears in his eyes?"You're not going to get all sentimental, are you Tommy?" Buck asked, taking Tommy's hand as he led him to the lake.Surprisingly, Tommy glided across the ice with a confidence that Buck envied. They picked up speed together, the chill of the frigid air rushing past them as they laughed. The sound of their skates carving through the surface echoed around them.Without warning, Tommy suddenly stopped, sending a flurry of sparkling ice dust into the air around them. Buck, caught off guard by the abrupt halt, found himself unable to regain his balance. He skidded forward and crashed right into Tommy's arms, who instinctively caught him with a firm grip.With a playful smile, Tommy removed his glove and gently lifted Buck's chin with his fingers before leaning in to kiss him softly. The warmth of that kiss stirred something deep inside Buck, leaving his legs weak and wobbly as if they might give way at any moment. It was a good thing Tommy was there to hold him up, anchoring him in the bliss of the moment."What was that for?" Buck whispered, confused when they slowly parted."Do I need a reason to kiss you, Evan Buckley?" Tommy asked mischievously.  "I just felt like it."He put his glove back on, grabbed Buck's hands, gained momentum, and they began to spin in circles."Stop it, Tommy," he laughed. "I'm getting dizzy."As they skated around the lake holding hands, Buck asked Tommy where he got his skills from."I was on the hockey team in college. We won a couple of titles. I was a defensive forward. If someone got loose, it was my job to keep them from scoring, and sometimes I was an enforcer. I can teach you some tricks if you want," he said jokingly."Thanks, but no thanks. I've already kissed the ground today," Buck replied with a grin."Speaking of which," Tommy muttered, and their lips met again."Two lovebirds in the middle of the ice. Bucky boy, is that you? I don't believe it. You've never kissed me like that!" A small group of guys standing behind them burst out laughing.Only one person would say something so stupid: Adrian Torrance, the mayor's son by profession and about Buck's age. The guy was ugly, arrogant and dumb as a box of rocks. That's all Buck remembered from back in the day."How long have you been following us around?" Buck asked brusquely. He didn't feel like having a more extended conversation with this idiot, which was hardly possible anyway, considering Adrian's limited vocabulary."Long enough. Have you finally found someone? Who is this guy?" Adrian eyed Tommy suspiciously from top to bottom."None of your business, A-""Tommy," his friend cut him off."Nice jacket, man," Adrian said. "Fancy a game of hockey with my boys?"Of course, the idiots had been eavesdropping."That's not a good idea," Buck said carefully."Why not? If he's such a great forwarder, we're going to lose anyway.""Evan's right," Tommy said, trying to convince him. "I think I'll pass.""Evan? Who the fuck calls you Evan?" Adrian laughed, and his friends joined in. Then he turned his attention back to Tommy, "Are you chickening out?" One of his friends started cackling."Come on, man. We've got some hockey gear with us.""Thanks, but no thanks," Tommy replied."Huh, guess we're not good enough for you? City boy thinks he's special."Adrian went on the offensive. His friends approached Buck and Tommy as if on cue."What's up, Adrian?" pug-faced Bernie stepped forward."That guy," Adrian pointed to Tommy, "says he was a star on his college hockey team. I asked him to play a game with us. But he refused. Looks like we're not good enough for him."There was a general murmur."Kick his fucking ass," Bernie demanded.Now, they had crossed a line. Buck stepped in."Cut the crap, Adrian. Take your group of retards and fuck off." It was the only language he understood. "I'm sure if Tommy could, he'd kick your sorry ass all over the place."Buck ignored Tommy's attempt to stop him from lashing out.Adrian laughed, showing his ugly yellow teeth, "If he could? What does that mean? Is he frozen to the ground, or has he broken his little hands?" he taunted.His friends hooted and laughed."No," Buck said calmly, fighting to keep himself from kicking Adrian's family jewels."Tommy is blind."Suddenly, everyone fell silent."Holy shit," Adrian blurted out.Meanwhile, Sheriff Athena Grant arrived."Is there a problem, Buck?" she asked, looking back and forth between him and Adrian's group. "Are they bothering you?"Buck tried to get rid of the big lump in his throat by swallowing a few times but in vain.Still shaking with anger, he said, "No, Sheriff. I think Adrian just got my point."Buck glared at the Major's son. Too bad looks couldn't kill.Before Adrian turned around, he muttered, "Why doesn't he wear one of those armlets? Then we wouldn't have bothered you."Athena stepped in front of Buck and Tommy. "How about you and your Neanderthals get the hell out of here, or I'll take you all into custody. I've got my van and some deputies with me today. Also, I will call your father first thing in the morning, my dear Adrian, and tell him you're harassing potential investors."Murmuring to themselves, the group left."I am sorry you guys had to deal with our village idiot and his groupies..." Athena apologized.Then added, "I officially welcome you to our little Christmas fair, Buck and Mister...""Tommy." He introduced himself and extended his hand.Athena took Tommy's hand and apologized again, "I'm sorry they bothered you.""No problem. We're fine," Buck replied."Excuse me, Sergeant Grant, but where did the potential investors come from?" Tommy asked."That's all Adrian's dad cares for, investors. I'm sure Adrian got my message. And now... Egg nog's on me. How about that?" she suggested.Buck and Tommy accepted.Their destination was one of the booths set up by the lake. The crowd immediately dispersed as the two men, led by Athena, approached it."Nothing like a Sheriff leading the way," Buck teased her.When Tommy asked what was going on, Buck told him, "You should see how people jump to the side for us."They laughed. Athena ordered the hot drinks and then asked Buck what just happened with Adrian and his thugs. She shook her head a few times as he gave her a brief rundown."Adrian is the same rude idiot as his father Brad.”“How dare you talk about our mayor like that?” Buck quipped, knowing full well that no one liked him and that he had only won the election thanks to some favors he had called in. ”It's nothing but the truth, dear Buck." Then she gave Tommy her Sergeant Grant once over and said, "I would never have guessed that you were blind, Tommy, as confident as you are behaving in general and on the ice. It's probably because of Buck's good guidance." She winked at him.Buck gave her a big smile."Regarding that matter," Tommy interrupted their silent exchange, bowing his head slightly. "On our way here, Evan had an unfortunate slip-up that sent us both sprawling onto the pavement. He missed a patch of ice. It almost felt like blindness was catching."While Tommy stood there, an amused look on his face, Athena and Buck exchanged bewildered looks. They started to laugh only when Tommy couldn't hold back his chuckles.Buck savored a sip of his eggnog, his gaze wandering across the Christmas market. The cheerful chatter of children caught his attention. He noticed a small group nearby and watched them for a moment, a gentle smile tugging at the corners of his lips."You know, your blind jokes are terrible," Buck said to Tommy, his tone serious but with a hint of amusement. He couldn't help but tease his friend.Suddenly, Buck's expression changed as he realized he had forgotten to check on his niece. He called out her name, hoping she was nearby.Athena noticed the hint of panic in his voice. "Buck, calm down. Jee is with the Thomsons. By now, she's probably eaten at least a pound of cotton candy," she stated dryly. "I wouldn't be surprised if she suffers some belly ache tonight."Athena's radio came to life as their conversation flowed, cutting through their words. Her face clouded with concern as she apologized, sensing something urgent that demanded her immediate attention. Tommy and Buck finished their drinks and returned to the bench to put their boots back on."Sorry," Tommy said out of the blue."For what?""It's my fault you didn't look after Jee. I am not used being around...""Nonsense," Buck dismissed him. "It's nobody's fault. Jee is in good hands. I bet she even forgot about us. As long as she has Theodore around... The Thomsons are awesome. I'm sure it was Martha's doing to keep Jee busy."Tommy snorted, "You mean she's playing matchmaker?""Ah, yeah. My gut tells me so. And I like that thought."Tommy seemed to hesitate."Tommy? Was I too....""No, no. I'd be lying if I said I didn't agree. But I'm surprised at how quickly we've become so familiar. Don't you think we should slow things down a bit?""Oops, is this going to be a deep conversation? Then we should postpone it. After the fourth mulled wine or so. Because I'm in such a great mood right now and...""Sorry, Evan. It wasn't my intention to get broody. I just don't want to give the impression that I'm coming between you and Jee. I also don't want to hurt either of you.""Tommy, for heaven's sake, where are these thoughts coming from? You're the best thing that could have happened to Jee and me. I haven't heard her laugh like that in ages. And we don't have to talk about me—according to Martha, I glow like a brightly lit Christmas tree."Buck noticed that Tommy's mood was down, probably because of the incident with Adrian. He wondered if Adrian's words had hurt Tommy. Determined to keep the mood light, Buck grabbed Tommy's hand and playfully pulled him along, suggesting they look for Jee and the Thomsons together."Great. How's that supposed to work, Evan? I'm not exactly good at looking for someone, in case you forgot," Tommy said dejectedly.Buck stopped, turned to him and playfully grabbed his collar, "Can I please have my Tommy Kinard back?"Your Tommy Kinard?" he asked, confused."Yes, my Tommy Kinard. The guy with an answer for everything. And who sees me with his hands in ways others can't even with their eyes and never demands constant entertainment, which is a relief because that's pretty exhausting..."Buck's words were abruptly cut off as Tommy gently placed two fingers under his chin to bring him in for a scorching kiss.

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Strolling through the bustling Christmas market, Tommy and Buck were enveloped by the twinkling lights and festive decorations. The air was filled with the tantalizing scents of sweet treats and warming spices, drawing them irresistibly towards the food corner. They followed the mouthwatering aromas weaving through the crowd. As they approached, they spotted the familiar faces of the Thomson family and Jee, their laughter and smiles adding to the joyous ambiance of the evening.The market was adorned with colorful lights and decorations that sparkled and shimmered in the soft glow of the evening. The sweet smell of spun sugar mingled with the smoky aroma of roasted almonds and the warm scent of cinnamon, filling the air with a nostalgic and delicious aroma. Tommy and Buck joined the group, their smiles reflecting the season's joy. They settled in, ready to savor the tasty treats and soak up the festive atmosphere. While enjoying the food and drinks, Tommy and Buck began to share their story about Adrian and his friends, the warmth of the evening wrapping around them like a cozy blanket."Adrian's always been a troublemaker," Martha remarked."Oh, before I forget, thanks for looking after Jee," Buck told her."You're welcome, Buck, but I've a little surprise for you."Buck gave her a puzzled look."We'd like to invite Jee to stay with us for a few days."She grinned mischievously and looked back and forth between Buck and Tommy, who was chatting animatedly with Mr. Thomson."I think Tommy and you could use some alone time."Her look spoke volumes and needed no explanation."Thanks, Martha, but I'm not sure, Jee..." Buck objected.She waved him off: "We've already talked about it, and she'd be delighted. There's a children's lunch tomorrow, and little Jimmy Parker's birthday is the day after. All of Jee's friends will be there. I'd come by around nine tomorrow morning and pick up a bag of Jee's clothes and whatever she needs."Buck took a deep breath. Great, now he'd have all the time in the world for Tommy. Was this really what he wanted? Just the thought of being alone with this gorgeous man caused his intestines to turn into a knot. Buck couldn't remember the last time he had been alone with another man for a few days. His whole life had revolved around Jee. But then he scolded himself for being so insecure. Tommy wasn't Jack the Ripper. Buck's FBI past was obviously catching up with him. On the other hand, the idea of being alone with Tommy was quite tempting. Buck's thoughts were spinning like a Ferris wheel."Hey, kids, let's go," Martha said. She patted her husband on the shoulder, "Mike, I'm sure you and Tommy can continue your conversation another time," she gave him a tender smile, and they kissed."See you tomorrow, boys," she chirped, winking at Buck and Tommy."What about Jee?" asked Tommy."You won't believe it," Buck said in a voice a touch higher than usual. She's staying with the Thomsons for a few days. Martha thinks you and I should spend some time together.""Evan? You don't sound pleased about it." Great. Tommy hardly knew Buck and read him like an open book, even though he was blind. He fell silent and crossed his arms with Tommy."I say we call it a night," Buck muttered.Again, it felt like he had airplanes in his stomach instead of butterflies."Are you all right? You're so quiet?" Tommy asked Buck as they walked home.It started to snow. Big, soft flakes fell from the sky as if in slow motion."It's snowing, sweet," Buck said."I know, I can feel the flakes on my face," Tommy replied and smiled."Oh, of course. Sorry."They walked side by side in silence for a while."You didn't answer my question," Tommy insisted.What was Buck supposed to tell him? That it scared him shitless to be alone with him? That he hadn't had sex for ages? Buck silently cursed Martha, feeling frustrated. She had put him in an impossible situation."Cat got your tongue? Good, then I'll talk," Tommy continued.But before Tommy could say another word, Adrian slipped out of the shadows and stabbed the tip of a knife into Tommy's back. Bernie and another man appeared behind Buck."Good evening, gentlemen," sneered the mayor's son. "You assholes didn't think you'd get away with this, did you? Well, I think it's time for a little demonstration."Bernie succumbed to Adrian's cheerleader. Unfortunately, there were no other people on the street at the time.While Adrian grabbed Tommy's neck and held him in check, Bernie and the other guy grabbed Buck's arms."Whoa, chill. What the hell is wrong with you?" Buck snarled, trying to shake them loose, but their grip tightened."I think this was a big mistake," Tommy said calmly.He let his cane slide from one hand to the other and slammed the tip backwards into Adrian's solar plexus. Then he spun, grabbed the end of his cane and pulled Adrian's feet out from under him as he rolled over, still gasping for breath. The knife fell from his hand with a clatter. Tommy moved in immediately, outlining Adrian's body with his cane to give him an idea of his position, and began to deliver sharp blows.Buck woke from his stupor, shook himself and elbowed Bernie in the stomach, bringing him to his knees. Then Buck rammed his knee into his face. Bernie collapsed on the sidewalk, howling, while the other guy took off.Tommy was still beating Adrian with his cane. The mayor's son should remember that nobody messed with him or his friends.It had taken Tommy less than two minutes to deal with Adrian."Bloody hell!" Buck shouted, breathing heavily as he leaned over Bernie. The boy was lying on the ground, holding his bleeding nose."Where's the knife?" Tommy hissed, fearing the situation wasn't yet under control."Don't worry," Buck reached down, picked up the knife and put it in his pocket. "I've got it.""Who's that lying on the floor whimpering?" asked Tommy."Oh, it's just Bernie. I think I broke his nose." Buck could hardly stifle a laugh."Good!" Tommy gave Adrian another blow in the side with his cane as he tried to get up. "Stay down," Tommy warned him."I call the sheriff," Buck said.Fifteen minutes later, the situation was under control. Tommy and Buck had made their statements, and Adrian and Bernie were sitting in the back of a patrol car, looking pretty battered. When Buck told them about Tommy's fighting skills, Athena and her deputies were stunned.She looked closer at the cane and shook her head: "I've never seen anything like it. I thought they were made of aluminum.""No, not this one. It's made from Sitka spruce. It's used for guitars and stringed instruments," Tommy explained. "It's light but sturdy and custom-made for me. It's called a jo, or short staff."Athena saw Buck's curious look and handed him the cane. Buck tried out the light staff before handing it back. With all the tension gone, Buck suddenly began to laugh.Athena gave him a puzzled look, and Tommy frowned."Why are you laughing?" his friend asked."That was so funny, Tommy. I swear you should have seen Adrian's stupid face, not that I looked any smarter. God, Tommy. If I were on social media, I'd have uploaded the fight to my Instagram account or YouTube."Tommy grinned and shrugged."Where did you learn to defend yourself?" asked Athena."I have practiced martial arts since I was a teenager. Now, I take private lessons in a dojo near my home.""That was just great, Tommy. You went all Shaolin," Buck said, full of admiration."In a way, you could almost feel sorry for Adrian," Buck added."I don't feel sorry for him at all. He thought we were defenseless," Tommy replied.Athena's radio crackled, then came a report of a 10-10 in Molly's bar."Copy that," she said, nodding at Buck and telling Tommy, "If I'm short of staff, I'm going to give you a call." She got into the car and drove off.Smiling, Tommy asked, "10-10?""A bar brawl, 10-10 is the code for a fight," Buck explained to him."A lot is going on in this small town," said Tommy.On impulse, Buck went to reach for Tommy's face but stopped. "Can-Can I touch you without ending up on the sidewalk with a stick up my ass? At least not that stick?" he quipped.Tommy nodded, and as Buck put his arms around him, the adrenaline subsided, and he was overcome with a rush of emotion. They hugged, and when Buck took a step, Tommy inhaled sharply.“Hey, hey, what’s going on? Why are you crying?” Buck asked, gently wiping a tear from his friend’s cheek.Tommy ran his hand over his face, embarrassed."Nothing, I'm fine. It's just... I don't know..." he lied. What else could he have said? That this evening had been one of the best in years? That this gorgeous man next to him was everything he had ever wanted, but that he'd lose him as soon as the truth came out? Buck put his arm around Tommy's waist."Better?" he asked as they walked on.Tommy nodded. "Much better. Wow, what a night."They spent the rest of the walk home in silence. Both were lost in thought but enjoyed each other's company.Buck entered the living room with two steaming tea mugs spiked with a shot of rum. Tommy, who was sitting on the couch, looked a little lost."It tastes great," he said after taking a cautious sip."Tommy, how did you know where to hit Adrian without seeing him?" Buck asked curiously. He had been thinking about this question the whole time."His voice, in relation to yours, gave a general direction. His breath on my neck gave me the approximate distance. Then, his grip around my neck told me his body position. It's the thumbs that give it away," Tommy told Buck, wiggling his thumb in the air."Wow, that sounds amazing," Buck said. "Were you a ninja in a former life?"Tommy chuckled, "No. You sightlings are so dependent on your vision that you miss many other environmental clues. My senses are no better than yours. I don't have any superpowers. I'm just more observant because my sight doesn't clatter my synapses.""Sightlings?" Buck chuckled. "I've never heard that before.""Sorry, it's a derogatory term. We don't use it often. I just slipped.""I think Jee would like that," Buck mused."Do you miss her?" Tommy asked.Buck sighed loudly. "Yes, I think I do. I know it's stupid. But the house is quiet without the little girl.""Then go, call Martha and tell her."Buck was torn. "No, I don't think so. She needs time with other children. I don't think she misses me. It's just that I'm in mother hen mode."Tommy moved closer and placed a hand on Buck's thigh. It felt like he'd just dropped a pile of hot coals there. Slowly, his fingers traveled upward, tracing a path until they reached Buck's neck. The slight smile on Tommy's face and the enraptured look in his beautiful, blind eyes made Buck's heart race. He was certain Tommy had no idea what this gentle touch did to him.Tommy used his other hand to trace Buck's face, then leaned forward and kissed him. Buck returned the kiss without hesitation, pulling Tommy into a full-body embrace. Neither had been kissed like this for a long time, and neither wanted to stop.Each of them felt the other's hunger for love—almost desperate. When they finally came up for air, Buck whispered breathlessly in Tommy's ear, "We should probably stop.""I think you're right," Tommy agreed hoarsely, pressing his forehead against Buck's."You know," Tommy continued, "I haven't felt this way about someone in so long, I'd almost forgotten what it's like. I missed this feeling.""Welcome to the club. The feeling is definitely mutual," Buck agreed.They both chuckled."Can you tell me why we're acting like teenagers on our first date?" Tommy asked.Buck shrugged, "I don't know, it's ridiculous, isn't it?""Is your house far from here?" Tommy wanted to know."No, not at all, why?""I'd like to see where you live if you don't mind.""You'd like to see..." Buck broke off and grinned like the Cheshire Cat."How about we hang out at your place?" Tommy suggested."Yeah, sure, no problem."They could hardly tear themselves away from each other. But neither of them wanted to rush things. So, they changed the subject."What's it like working for the FBI?" Tommy wanted to know.Buck sighed. But there was something about Tommy that got him talking."Unlike what you see in movies and TV shows, life as an FBI agent isn't really glamorous or exciting. Most days are spent behind a desk, sifting through mountains of files. Maybe that's why I chose forensics. There's a certain satisfaction in it. Solving old cases brings much-needed peace to the victim's relatives. But some cases linger with you forever. The victims haunt your nights because you still haven't been able to identify them. The darkest hours of my career were always when children were involved. Embarrassing, isn't it?" Buck scratched the back of his head."No, it's not embarrassing, Buck. It just proves you're still human after all. You haven’t become one of those soulless robots who can face death every day without flinching or delivering heartbreaking news to the bereaved without feeling. It takes a lot of courage and a great deal of empathy. And then, your abduction...something...""You know about this?""Forgive me. I googled you," Tommy said and blushed."Oh.""Listen, I can't imagine what you've been through, and you have my deepest respect. I don't know if I would have the strength to go on. Look at the man you have become. You can be proud of yourself."Buck sighed. "Believe it or not, I have Jee to thank for that. I remember being in places so dark that not even demons would have wanted to play there. I can't tell you how many times I put an end to my life in my dreams, and then Jee came into my life. As tragic as the circumstances were, she was my salvation, my beacon in the darkness."They continued to talk, their conversation meandering from one topic to another, their voices rising and falling with the ebb and flow of their emotions. They laughed and sipped tea, eventually swapping it for wine as the evening progressed. Hours slipped by unnoticed as they lost themselves in each other’s company. They reluctantly rose from their seats and shared a tender kiss when it grew late before retiring to their rooms.Buck tossed and turned in his bed, sleep eluding him. Staring into the darkness, his thoughts wandered to Tommy. He wondered if he was asleep and longed for his company. Yet, Buck was too exhausted to muster the strength to leave the bed despite his desire to visit him downstairs. Eventually, weariness overcame him, and he drifted off to sleep.He dreamt of their wedding. He and Tommy were dressed in matching suits, looking dashing and radiant. Little Jee was the ring bearer, adorably marching down the aisle while making growling noises at each row. The guests were thoroughly amused. After the ceremony, Buck and Tommy asked the little girl about the growling, and Jee replied, "I was a ring bear." Even in his sleep, Buck smiled.Tommy's mind raced. He had enjoyed talking to Buck so much that he would have gone on all night if he could. It had taken considerable effort to control his impulses and not tear Buck's clothes off. Frustration gnawed at him; he had abandoned his original plan and now found himself unsure of his feelings. He had never imagined Buck could be so charming and attentive.As Tommy sat on the bed, he dreaded the phone call he was about to make. He had ignored his sister's messages for too long, and now he could no longer avoid contacting her. His thoughts drifted back to Buck and Jee, filling him with guilt and a sense of betrayal. He dialed his sister's number, wondering if anyone would pick up. To his surprise, someone did. The voice on the other end of the line spoke in Chinese, a language Tommy knew well. He patiently answered all the questions, responding fluently.

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Buck slept soundly while Tommy's conscience kept him awake all night, filled with guilt and worry. He knew he had made a serious mistake that could have significant consequences, and he couldn't shake the fear that was slowly consuming him.As he lay there, tossing and turning, Tommy couldn't stop thinking about what he had done. He knew he would have to face the repercussions, and the fear of what that might mean for him and Buck gnawed at him, refusing to let him rest.Despite his restless night, Tommy knew he could no longer delay the inevitable. He had to confront his guilt and take responsibility for his actions, no matter how challenging it would be. With a heavy heart, he got up and prepared himself for what lay ahead.Buck woke up early, excited to prepare a special breakfast for himself and Tommy. He went to Mrs. Bishop's store to buy the best ingredients. The store was busy, but Buck patiently waited in line, eager to get his hands on the freshest bread, delicious ham, crispy bacon, creamy cheese, and farm-fresh eggs. He added freshly squeezed orange juice to his shopping list because he knew Tommy loved it. When he got home, Buck set the table with great care, ensuring everything was perfectly arranged.Despite Tommy's blindness, Buck knew his friend would deeply appreciate the effort he had put into everything.Buck's heart was filled with anticipation as he waited for Tommy to wake up. He hoped this simple yet thoughtful gesture would bring joy to their morning.The entire house was filled with the mouthwatering scent of breakfast, and when Tommy stepped into the kitchen, he was greeted by an overwhelming symphony of aromas."Hmm, it smells wonderful in here. Fried bacon and eggs. Coffee." Tommy paused, taking a deep sniff. "Why do I smell pine?""It's the-the table decorations. A-a part of it," Buck replied with a nervous smile. "I've used white plates with a gold rim, a tablecloth adorned with various Christmas motifs, and red napkins with green cuffs.""Wow, a Christmas breakfast table. Love it," Tommy replied and sat down.Buck noticed that Tommy's smile seemed slightly off; it didn't light up his eyes like usual. This uncharacteristic expression on Tommy's face made Buck wonder if something was troubling him."Is something wrong, Tommy?""No, no. I'm just overwhelmed by all… your efforts and you," he reassured. Then, he reached for Buck, who took his hand and was immediately pulled into a gentle embrace."I need to fix breakfast," Buck said, using it as an excuse to pull away from the warmth of Tommy's embrace. He knew he couldn't resist Tommy's charms for much longer, a thought that thrilled and terrified him. Tommy had a way of dismantling his protective walls, exposing vulnerabilities that Buck wasn't used to revealing. He had been trapped in this emotional state for far too long.To Buck’s surprise, Tommy let him go without a word of protest. This struck Buck as odd since Tommy was usually the one pursuing him. He wondered if his past with the FBI haunted him, making him overanalyze everything and everyone around him. It was time to let go and just enjoy what he was experiencing with Tommy.During breakfast, they barely exchanged words. The atmosphere was heavy and uncomfortable, leaving Buck with a sense of unease and regret. He couldn’t help but reflect on last night, wondering if he had done something wrong. He tried to shake off the dark thoughts, but they lingered like a storm cloud. Could Tommy expect more from him than he was willing to give?After they finished eating, Buck said, "I'll do the dishes, and then we can be on our way.""On our way?" Tommy tilted his head slightly."You asked if we could spend some time at my place. Remember?"The temperature had plummeted overnight, creating a biting chill in the air. As they walked, the snow crunched under their feet, each step sending up tiny puffs of powder. Smaller snowplows rumbled by, diligently clearing the side streets, while dedicated volunteers scattered salt along the icy pathways, ensuring safer footing for pedestrians.Buck kept a watchful eye on Tommy, helping him navigate the winter wonderland that had transformed their neighborhood into a picturesque yet chaotic scene. They maneuvered around snowbanks and avoided the occasional slippery patch, their breaths visible in the frosty air. After what felt like an arduous trek through the wintry landscape, they finally arrived at Buck's front door in just under an hour—a journey that typically would have taken only about thirty minutes.Buck was about to put the key in the lock when Mrs. Gray appeared."Hi Buck, I'm so glad to see you. How are you?" she said, hugging him as if he had just returned from a year-long cruise at sea."I'm fine, Mrs. Gray. Thank you for looking after my house. May I introduce you to my friend?""Oh yes, of course, the charming Mr. Kinard," she said, beating Buck to the punch. Mrs. Bishop, the town's living newspaper, had done a perfect job spreading the word.Mrs. Gray immediately threw herself at him. Tommy, taken aback, stood ramrod straight for a moment before awkwardly returning her embrace with a quick hug."I've got to go, sweethearts. See you later," she cooed, making the same face Martha Thomson had when she told Buck about her invitation for Jee to stay for the next few days.Buck wondered what some people imagined when he and Tommy appeared in the same place."When you're done with whatever you're doing, you're welcome to come by my house for an egg nog," she piped before disappearing.Buck took a deep breath, opened the door, and led Tommy into the foyer. He took his friend's jacket and hung it next to his own."I'm sure she thinks we've already taken our clothes off and are about to have sex on every surface in this house," Buck muttered while his cheeks turned crimson.Tommy grinned. "I have to admit, that thought is pretty tempting.""You're quite the charmer," Buck replied with a wry smile. Glad, his friend couldn't see how embarrassed he was. "Allow me to show you my playground."Tommy held onto Buck's arm as Buck led the way and described everything.Mrs. Gray had turned up the heat after he announced his return earlier that day, so the atmosphere in the house was cozy."Welcome to the realm of chaos," Buck joked. He showed Tommy to the couch and coffee table. Then he led him to the large shelf where he kept his trophy collection."How about some tea?" Buck suggested."Sounds perfect."Buck felt a deep sense of contentment as he walked into his kitchen and surveyed his humble abode. It was good to be home. And he should get used to it. Because when Hen returned, his time with Tommy would end as he came to visit her.Buck's thoughts turned to the harsh reality of their situation. He lived in the middle of nowhere and was completely satisfied with that lifestyle. In contrast, Tommy lived in a bustling city—a place Buck had left behind and had no intention of returning to. The idea of maintaining a long-distance relationship felt daunting. Only Buck knew that such arrangements rarely succeeded. This contemplation made him feel a little sentimental.A few minutes later, he entered the living room carrying two large mugs steaming mugs he put on the coffee table. Tommy still stood in front of the trophy wall, admiring the various awards. Udding his hands to find out more about them."Wow, you've won many sports awards! That's amazing," Tommy praised, "and there are some for other achievements too.""Yes, I used to be very good at facial reconstruction and forensics. But that was a long time ago, and it feels like a different life," Buck replied with a hint of sadness.Tommy had inadvertently touched a nerve when he brought up Buck's past. There was a certain bitterness in Buck's tone as he struggled to come to terms with his history. Sensing the tension, Tommy carefully put back the award he held, and they sat on the couch. Buck handed him a mug, which he accepted with care. He could feel Buck's discomfort and took a small sip before setting the mug aside. The weight of Buck's emotions hung heavily in the air as they sat in silence. Tommy briefly considered whether he should postpone his confession. The timing seemed off. Wait. Was there ever an ideal time to admit to someone that they had been deceived?"Evan, we need to talk," he said with a heavy heart.Alarm bells started ringing in Buck's head. "Oh, oh."Tommy's apprehension was palpable as he tried to find the right words. His unseeing eyes darted back and forth.Finally, he spoke: "I can only hope you won't throw me out after I tell you what this is all about."His words hung in the air, each second of silence amplifying his anxiety. What he had to say was difficult for him, and he was deeply worried about the consequences."Tommy, please don't tell me you're angry because I didn't sleep with you last night," Buck blurted out."What? No." A sad smile flitted across Tommy's face as he shook his head. "Believe me when I tell you that's the last thing on my mind right now." He swallowed and interlaced his fingers to stop his hands from shaking."Okay," Buck said, his heart hammering in his chest. "So, you're telling me you're married and forgot to mention it?""No…" Tommy said, running his fingers through his hair."Evan, since there's no point beating around the bush, I'll just tell it like it is. I've kept some things from you and lied about who I am - I mean, not who I am, but... You might know me under another name as well."Buck's eyebrows shot up to his hairline, "What the hell are you talking about, another name? So, your name's not Tommy Kinard?"I didn't lie about my real name. And the name's not the issue."Tommy scrunched up his face, something Buck usually found endearing, but not this time. Why did he feel betrayed? However, he was too riled up to say anything, so he listened.Tommy cleared his throat before continuing, "I lied about other things, too. For example, I'm not one of Hen's many friends. The truth is we hardly know each other."Buck felt slightly relieved but still waited for Tommy to drop a bombshell. "So, you both lied about your friendship, and there's… more?""Teaching isn't my real job. It's more of a passion. I'm a writer. And if I remember correctly, you're already eagerly awaiting my new book.""OH.MY.GOD.," Buck's jaw dropped. No longer angry but flabbergasted, he looked at Tommy as if he had just fallen off a spaceship and landed in his front yard.Tommy tried to understand the sounds coming from Buck's mouth: "Evan? Are you okay?""Holy fucking shit... you're Xander Tyler," Buck pronounced the author's name with admiration."You just gave me an early Christmas present, Xan... Tommy. I'm your biggest fan. I-I have no words. I love your novels. I've read them all."Xander Tyler's novels focus on various criminal cases, including art theft, white-collar crime, kidnapping, and murder. They cover a wide range of topics and are both entertaining and well-researched. Even for someone like Buck, an ex-FBI agent, the scenarios are consistently coherent and often strikingly realistic. This level of detail has impressed him since reading the first book."You need to sign the books; let me get them." He was almost on his feet when Tommy grabbed his wrist."Evan, please. That's still not the whole truth," Tommy curbed Buck's enthusiasm."Come on, you can't be serious. More surprises?" Buck was over the moon."Yes... No, please, hear me out," Tommy pleaded."There's a reason I wanted to meet you. It's because you're the best. Your many awards prove that."Buck swallowed. His heart sank. "My awards? You mean I'm-I'm the best at softball?" His voice broke because he could sense what was coming, and it already hurt.Tommy shook his head, "No, I-I am talking about facial reconstruction." His voice dropped to a whisper. "I'm here because I need your help... we need you and your talent."Perfect. He might as well have beaten Buck with a crowbar."What the hell?" Buck stared at Tommy in disbelief, struggling to process the information he had just revealed. He slowly stood up, his voice a mix of anger and hurt. "This must be a nightmare," Buck whispered. "Are you telling me that everything—the last few days, everything we've done together—was just an act? A ruse to get to me?" He waited anxiously for Tommy's response, his heart pounding. Doubts flooded his mind, making him question the truth of everything Tommy had shared. "Are you going to tell me next that you're not blind? And using my little niece in all of this takes the cake. Congratulations, you’re worth every penny you make from your novels. You've just outdone yourself in real life."Tommy stood up as well, "I knew it. I knew how you'd react. But I'm asking you to hear me out.""I already have, Tommy Kinard. You've been found guilty on all charges, and now get out of my house!"Buck's chest heaved as his breathing grew faster and shallower. He clenched his hands into fists, not to land a slap in Tommy's face. The urge to lash out at the man was overwhelming, but he fought it with every fiber of his being, determined to maintain his composure.Understanding the seriousness of the situation, Tommy tried to defuse it by speaking calmly and reassuringly. "I understand your frustration and anger, but please let me explain," he pleaded, his voice trembling.As Buck looked at Tommy, he saw tears welling up in his beautiful blue eyes; he took it as a sign of remorse. He couldn't quite put his finger on it, but something about Tommy's behavior caught his attention.The mixture of humility, sincerity, and sadness made Buck pause and reconsider. "I must say, Tommy, you have a unique talent for playing the pity card," Buck remarked cynically. "You've got three minutes, not a second longer. Don't you dare lie to me again."Buck sat down in the wing chair while Tommy retreated to the couch. He inhaled sharply before he rose to speak."Two things first. I never intended to use my blindness as a pity bonus. Any more than I never intended to..." Tommy swallowed. Buck didn't move or say a word. "Any more than I never intended to fall in love with you. It just happened and completely overthrew my oh-so-great plan. In fact, it all went wrong from the start. Hen was supposed to help me, but her boss called and...""Time's running out, Tommy, and you still haven't gotten to the heart of the matter. There's still no reason why I shouldn't kick your sorry ass into oblivion," Buck admonished him."I'm sorry, Evan. But I need to elaborate. What I'm telling you is something I haven't shared with many people. It's about my life and finding a family when I had nowhere else to go.When I was seventeen, I came out to my parents, and after that, nothing was the same between us. I ended up homeless and spent a lot of time on the streets. Then, I started working in a small store owned by a Chinese man, Li Chang. He quickly took me under his wing and became like a father to me. Li taught me Chinese and introduced me to martial arts, which became my passion. I felt that I had finally found a place where I belonged.Li has a daughter. Her name is Wen, and she is like a sister to me. We were almost inseparable. I spent a lot of time with her and her family. Until… A few years ago, Wen's six-year-old son disappeared. It happened in broad daylight, just a few yards from her house. He was on his way home from the playground when he disappeared. Everyone in the community helped search for him. Later, the police were brought in and searched dogs. But despite their best efforts, they found nothing but his abandoned bike on a side street.An Amber Alert was issued, and we held a press conference to address the kidnappers, but nothing came of it. It quickly turned out that this wasn't about money. We were devastated, and I did everything I could to support her. I used my influence, hired private investigators, and searched tirelessly for any clue that might help us find the child, but it was as if he had vanished into thin air. It's been a while now, and we still don't know what happened to him. But we haven't given up hope. Never. Wen and her family are some of the strongest people I know, and I'm grateful to have them in my life.""I remember the case," Buck said tonelessly."Really?" Tommy asked, surprised.Buck cleared his throat and said, "I told you that cases involving children stay with you forever. Lian Yahzu disappeared without a trace on his way home. In a good neighborhood where people didn't even know the word crime until that day. Awful."All the memories Buck had buried over the years came flooding back: every case and every victim."Tao, Wen's husband, never got over it. He hanged himself in the garage two years later on Lian's birthday," Tommy continued. "A few weeks ago, several things happened at once. First, the police arrested a man, Lucas Kramer, who claimed to have kidnapped, abused, and killed Lian and several other children. At the same time, Wen saw a boy she swears is Lian. She has tried to find out about the boy's family, but it has been difficult. They seem to be in some sort of witness protection program. That's what I've learned from the sources I've tapped into because of my job as a writer. Unfortunately, we've hit a dead end."Silence - Tommy seemed to be waiting for a reaction.Buck found himself in a dilemma. Tommy had lied to him, but not about everything. Buck still believed that Tommy's feelings for him were genuine. He also knew that Tommy had a good heart, as evidenced by his efforts to help Wen's family. As Buck contemplated Tommy's request, he felt restless and experienced a strange tingling in his stomach. This request signified more than just a simple favor.Buck realized he would have to confront his past with the FBI, something he had hoped to leave behind. However, his work taught him how devastating it is for the families of missing persons when they receive no news about their loved ones. The lack of closure and the constant uncertainty are unbearable.Despite his hesitations, Buck decided to help Tommy. He remembered a previous case where he could work on his terms, free from the pressure of a boss who envied his success. Buck knew that this case would be fraught with difficulties, but he was determined to do everything he could to help Tommy and Wen's family find the closure they deserved."Did this Kramer say anything about what he did with the bodies?" Buck wanted to know."As far as I know, he's stopped talking. He seems to think he's the new Hannibal Lecter," Tommy drummed his fingers nervously on his thigh."Tommy, I'm not exactly happy about your revelations and the real reason for your visit. But since you've given me a plausible explanation for your actions, I'll do everything in my power, even if I can't promise you that I'll achieve the result you and Wen's family want."Tommy's face brightened: "You mean you're going to help us? Do you really want to help us?"Buck moved from his chair to the couch and sat down next to Tommy, where he took his hand and squeezed it tightly, "I think it's time to give your family some much-needed closure.""Thank you, Evan. This means a lot to me."When Tommy's worries and fears were finally put to rest, he felt an enormous weight lifted from his shoulders. Overwhelmed with emotion, he began to sob uncontrollably, tears streaming down his face. Buck immediately pulled him close, and this time, he offered comfort.

----- CHAPTER BREAK -----

Step by step, Buck walked down into the basement, into his little "home lab" that he hadn't set foot in for two years, except maybe a few times to dust it off. It felt as if a clammy hand was wrapped around his heart. He gripped Tommy's arm, the only thing keeping Buck from losing it. He was too busy worrying about a blind man not falling down the stairs and breaking his neck.Once downstairs, Buck flipped the switch. The bright neon lights flickered to life, flooding the room with their cold, stark rays. The sharp smell of plasticine and chemicals hit him instantly, stirring unpleasant memories that had long been buried. Each whiff was a reminder of long hours and the cases he couldn't solve, shadows of the past that threatened to surface."Welcome to my own personal hell," he said sarcastically.Tommy squeezed his friend's arm: "You don't have to do this if it makes you uncomfortable. I'd blame myself forever...""No worries. I'd blame myself forever if I let you and your family down."Buck gently lifted Tommy’s hand to his lips, pressing a soft kiss to his knuckles. Tommy’s eyes sparkled with a smile."Can you ask Wen if she has any pictures of the child she saw?" Buck turned on his computer, praying it would still work after such a long break.It booted up. A small cry of victory escaped his throat."What was that?" Tommy asked."My computer, it works," Buck explained joyfully.He kissed Tommy's cheek with enthusiasm. As he tried to pull away, Tommy held him tightly. A pleasant heat surged through the younger man's body at lightning speed as Tommy's tongue sought entry, tenderly wrestling with Buck's. Their heartbeats quickened."You taste so good," Tommy said into the kiss.Then he moved away from Buck's lips to his earlobe and neck. Gently sucking, he lingered there for a while.Buck groaned and melted into Tommy."Tommy," he panted, "I don't think this is a good idea.""What?" he asked, grinning as he showered Buck with tiny kisses."We didn't come here to make out, did we?" Buck felt his knees buckle. Thank goodness Tommy was holding him in his strong arms.It was starting to get way too hot. Buck gently pushed Tommy away. "How can I work if you turn into Mr. Octopus and kiss me senseless?""Do I? Really?" Tommy teased him in a raspy voice. His hard cock pressed against Buck's thigh."I didn't ask you to get to work right away."Tommy seemed determined not to let him go. Buck relented and ran his hand down to his friend's crotch, stroking it gently."Is that the alternative you offer me?" Buck teased, nibbling at Tommy's upper lip."Yes," Tommy hissed."My private hell is bloody uncomfortable," Buck muttered, still a little restless. "Let's go upstairs."Buck took Tommy's hand and led him unceremoniously into his bedroom. He had a king-size bed that hadn't been used for far too long. He pushed Tommy onto the bed and unbuttoned his friend's shirt button by button. Tommy returned the favor. However, Tommy had a clear advantage because his friend only had three buttons on the collar of his sweater. Tommy pulled it over Buck's head and threw it across the room. His shirt followed seconds later.Buck's mouth went dry when he discovered the toned torso beneath him. "Wow, do you get your muscles from all that writing?"Tommy laughed throatily. "Unfortunately, not. I have to hit the gym like everyone else."Buck couldn't wait to explore every inch of this gorgeous man. He was about to undo Tommy's pants when the doorbell rang."Ignore it," Tommy said, grabbing and pulling him down.The kiss that followed robbed Buck of the few brain cells he had left."Okay," Buck gasped as Tommy's skilled hands roamed over his body, giving him endless pleasure.Buck was about to undo Tommy's fly when the doorbell rang again."I've got to go and see who it is," Buck groaned. "It could be Mrs. Thomson."Reluctantly, they let go of each other. Buck grabbed the nearest shirt and pulled it over his head, cursing.A grinning Mrs. Gray stood at the door, holding a tray with two cups of eggnog and a plate of cookies. Buck closed his eyes and counted to ten."Mrs. Gray, what a pleasure," he said, hoping his voice and forced smile didn't betray how on edge he felt."I figured you were probably too busy to come visit me, and I didn't want you to miss out on eggnog and homemade cookies," she craned her neck, trying to spot Tommy somewhere.When Buck cleared his throat, she poked her head out the door, her eyes landing on him."Oops," she chuckled, "looks like I caught you off guard.""Excuse me?" Buck asked irritably, wondering if his arousal was showing on his face."It's your shirt. You know, it's... Well, I think I'd better... The laundry is waiting." She slipped the tray into Buck's hand, disappearing with a huge grin.Buck carried everything into the kitchen and glanced down at his shirt. Fantastic! He noticed the tag under his chin. No wonder Mrs. Gray had given him that all-knowing look. Shaking his head, Buck was already on his way back to Tommy. The poor guy was sitting on the bed, waiting for whatever might happen next. Buck took off his shirt and pants until he was standing naked in front of Tommy."I'm back," he announced unnecessarily. Tommy was blind but not deaf. He must have been aware of his presence by now.Buck took Tommy's hands and put them on his hips."Oh, did you lose your clothes on the way?" Tommy grinned and immediately explored Buck's body with his hot, moist lips. He licked a wet path from Buck's belly button down the treasure trail to his cock, taking his time."Tommy," Buck gasped. "This is torture."Just as Tommy closed his lips around Buck's cock, the phone went off.The sound was irritating and distracting. Buck tried desperately to ignore it, but he couldn't."This better be important," Buck snarled. "I'm sorry, Tommy, I..."Buck reached for the phone he left on the bedside table and snapped, "Buckley!""Oh, sorry, wrong number," a confused man said."Asshole," Buck hissed.Annoyed, he turned off the phone. Then he closed the bedroom door and locked it."What are you doing?" Tommy asked."I'll make sure there's no further disturbance," Buck assured, his determination clear."Isn't there a saying that all good things come in threes," Tommy grinned."Not under my watch," Buck replied.Still in his jeans, his hands clasped behind his head, Tommy lay in front of Buck, who crawled onto the bed and worked on the fly's apparently cursed buttons. When he had undone them, he paused."Evan?""Shh." He placed his finger on Tommy's lips. "I'm all yours, just a second."Once again, he turned his attention away from the beautiful man to get lube and a condom from the drawer of the bedside table.Finally, the jeans landed on the floor. Buck straddled him while Tommy mapped the blond's body with his hands. Buck pushed him back gently."I'm in charge," he said bossy.Buck left soft kisses on his way down Tommy's chest, belly button and treasure trail. Tommy's body shivered as his primal instincts kicked in. Taking a closer look at Tommy's long thick cock Buck licked his lips. The swollen head was almost purple, and the tip sported a bead of pre-cum. As Buck began to lick Tommy's sack and rub his cheek and lips along his friend's cock, Tommy tangled his fingers in the mop of curls.Tommy guided Buck, showing him what and how he wanted it. Without sight, he responded more to touch and sound. Tommy moaned, bucked and writhed. His response was honest and immediate, encouraging Buck to continue.His eyes wandered to Tommy's face, whose features were rough and wild. Part of it was pure lust. But it was also the pain of the building sexual tension, consequential to the brink without letting go. Tommy wouldn't last long, and neither would Buck. He reached down and wrapped his fingers around Tommy's cock. Tommy gasped; his fingers dug into Buck's shoulders, and his hips instinctively thrust upward."Easy babe, easy," Buck whispered, kissing his way back up until he reached Tommy's neck and jaw. In a raspy voice, he said, "I think you need to come twice. Once in my mouth. And once when I'm inside you."The hot breath on his ear made Tommy shiver with anticipation. His hands found Buck's face, and he pulled his friend's head close to seal his lips in a searing kiss as their tongues battled for supremacy. But Buck had something else on his mind. He broke the kiss to give Tommy's cock his full attention. Tommy's legs fell apart. His hips thrust upward. Their mutual desire reached new heights. It took only a few movements of Buck's mouth over Tommy's cock, a few swirls of his tongue, and two well-lubricated fingers inside Tommy to make him come for the first time.Buck thought he had never seen anything more beautiful than Tommy's body surrendering to pleasure while shouting his name.Buck's cock ached as he stroked Tommy's body with his hands and slid his tongue into his lover's mouth."Taste you." He murmured into the kiss. Tommy moaned."Evan..." his deep, husky voice made Buck's body tingle."I'm not finished," Buck promised. "Roll over for me," he urged, helping Tommy onto his stomach.Then he ran his tongue down Tommy's spine to the crack of Tommy's tight ass and gently parted his cheeks to tongue his hole until Tommy was clutching the sheets and begging him, "Please fuck me."He flipped Tommy onto his back and leaned in to kiss him. Tommy quickly tried to wrap his legs around Buck and groaned in frustration when he was denied."I'm not ready yet," Buck said, taking Tommy's hand and wrapping it around his cock so to show him that he was bare. Tommy squeezed Buck's cock while Buck tore at the condom wrapper with his teeth."Evan, I need you now," Tommy begged in utter desperation.Buck pressed his sheathed cock against Tommy's ready hole and teased, "Is this what you want?"Tommy nodded, lifted his hips and spread his legs. Buck thrust into him slowly, letting him breathe through the penetration.It took every ounce of self-control not to push all the way in and lose himself in the other man's heat."Babe, are you okay?""More than okay."He wrapped his arms around Buck as they began to move in sync.Buck supported his weight with his hands, and they kissed while Tommy's hard cock was trapped between them, sliding in his pre-cum."Fuck. Evan – I'm coming. Again," he gasped.Buck held on as Tommy tightened around him, jerking as his orgasm thundered through him, shaking them both. His neck corded, and his mouth opened in a silent scream as he spurted his hot, sticky cum between them, pulling Buck with him over the edge. Buck felt like he was being catapulted out of his body, with cold fire in his bones and blinding lights behind his eyes. Buried hilt deep, he filled the condom with his release.They couldn't tell how long they held onto each other. Eventually, Buck pulled out. He knotted the condom before dropping it to the floor. In his current state, Buck didn't trust his legs. So, they just lay side by side."That was...""That was everything I ever dreamed of and much more than I expected," Tommy said quietly.Nature called, and Buck got up, not without kissing Tommy and telling him, "I'll be right back. Don't go away."Buck couldn't remember the last time sex had been so intense. He stopped wondering what it had been like for Tommy when his eyes fell on the mirror and discovered the blunt scratches on his shoulder. Yes, Tommy had held on tight. He knew how almost desperate he had been. Buck smiled at his reflection before returning to the bedroom with a warm, damp washcloth. War wounds were new to him.Once he had thoroughly cleaned up the mess, he sat down next to Tommy and took his lover's hands to run them over the scratches on his shoulder. Tommy perked up as soon as his fingers ran over the raised areas."What's that?"Buck chuckled. "Your fingernails."Tommy let out a breath and ran his hand down Buck's back, looking for more scratches."Oh, my goodness, that was me?""Obviously," Buck chuckled."Does... does it hurt?"Buck kissed him gently. "Not at all.""Why are you smiling?" Tommy wondered."Because I'm enjoying this and because I think it's damn hot."Tommy's hand stopped moving. "Hot? But... but I marked you."Panicked, he sat up and said, "Let me get you something for the scratches. Where do you..."Buck gently pushed him back and cuddled up to him. "No way, we're both staying where we are."Tommy swallowed and ran his hand gently down Buck's back, "Are you sure?""Absolutely," Buck said quietly."And Tommy?""Yes?""You can always mark me anytime. I like that."They were silent, and Buck almost fell asleep until Tommy cleared his throat."Evan?""Yes, Tommy?" he murmured."I wish I could see. I want to see you with my eyes, not just with my hands." Tommy's voice broke.Buck's throat tightened."Maybe I'm an ugly ogre, and you'd run away screaming," he tried to lighten the mood.Tommy ran his fingers down Buck's face. "No, you're not," he whispered, his voice choked with emotion as he pulled Buck closer.Buck had never felt so helpless. He had nothing to offer except his love.He must have spoken aloud because Tommy replied, "And this is all I need to know. Lying here with you is beyond anything I've dreamed of since we first met."To emphasize his words, Tommy kissed Buck gently on the forehead.

----- CHAPTER BREAK -----

Buck was tossing and turning, unable to shake his restlessness. With a heavy sigh, he got out of bed, his bare feet hitting the cool floorboards as Tommy snored softly behind him. Buck reached for his sweatpants and then his shirt, but on second thought, he decided to wear Tommy's.The kitchen was quiet, and Buck moved around the small room with practiced ease, his feet soundless on the cool floor. He filled the kettle with water and set it to boil, selecting a tea bag from the box on the shelf and dropping it into his favorite mug. As he leaned against the counter, waiting for the water to heat, his thoughts raced ahead of him, spinning out in a dozen different directions.The kettle’s whistle snapped him back to the present moment. He poured the steaming water over the tea bag, watching as the dark liquid swirled and deepened in color. A splash of milk and a spoonful of sugar followed, stirred with a small spoon until the tea was just right.Mug in hand, Buck made his way to the basement. The hum of the neon lights there involuntarily reminded him of his time in captivity, but he pushed those memories aside as he settled into the worn chair at his desk.The tea’s warmth was comforting, seeping into his bones as he sipped it slowly. His mind wandered to everything that had happened, and all that lay ahead. Thoughts of the missing boy's case mingled with reflections on his friendship with Tommy. Were the moments of happiness they shared worth the inevitable heartache once Tommy returned to his life in the big city? A place where a bestselling author would swiftly forget a holiday fling and a life Buck had long since walked away from. His feelings for Tommy were deep but not deep enough to follow him into a world where Buck didn't belong anymore."Get your mind out of the gutter, Buck, and help Tommy's family get some well-deserved closure," he told himself, tapping away at the keyboard, sending emails to various people.Time flew by, and two hours had slipped away before he knew it. The sudden sound of Tommy calling his name brought Buck out of deep concentration. He leaped from his chair and hurried up the stairs, his heart racing. Tommy stood in the middle of the living room, looking a bit panicked in jeans and Buck's sweater."Hey, Tommy, I'm here. I was in the basement. I'm really sorry, I completely lost track of time," Buck apologized, his voice sincere.Tommy closed his eyes for a moment, trying to compose himself. He then moved his head toward Buck's voice and said, "Don't ever do that to me again, please. I... I'm in an unfamiliar environment. I hardly know my way around..." His voice trailed off, leaving Buck feeling a pang of guilt. He didn't want to imagine how scared Tommy must have been."I'm sorry. This is my first rodeo with someone like you. I-I have to… to keep reminding myself that you have... special needs. I'm..."Tommy followed Buck's voice and pulled him into an embrace. Burying his face in Buck's neck, he murmured, "I could get used to having you around. You and your little daughter."Buck swallowed, wondering if Tommy had said that on purpose or if it had just been a slip of his tongue. Either way, he appreciated the words, and they touched him. So, he left it at that."Oh, I think I just found my shirt," Tommy muttered, tugging at it.Buck looked down at himself while Tommy still held him in his arms."Want to trade?"Tommy shook his head, smiling."I thought that if I couldn't sleep and went back to work, I would take a piece of you with me," Buck explained. "Besides, I didn't want to wake you. You were snoring so sweetly," Buck chuckled."I snored? Seriously? I never snore. No one has ever complained," Tommy grinned."Could that be because you sleep alone?" Buck suggested, grinning."Ouch," Tommy replied, then touched Buck's cheek and kissed him.Their tongues intertwined, and Buck's body instinctively responded to the passion. He felt his heart race and breathing quicken as Tommy's hands moved down his back. But just as it got hotter, Buck's phone downstairs rang. He reluctantly pulled away from Tommy, his eyes still closed and his breathing intermittent."I should answer it," he said with a hint of regret."Then I'll come with you," Tommy replied.By the time they reached the basement, the phone had stopped ringing.A moment later, they were both standing at the desk, and Buck was wiping his finger across the screen."Hen," he told Tommy while already calling her."Hello, handsome," she said sweetly, "I hope I'm not interrupting something." Her tone was quite ambiguous."Not at all. We've already had sex," Buck said matter-of-factly, nudging Tommy, whose eyes went wide as his cheeks flushed with embarrassment."That's not why I called," Hen said dryly."Really? I thought you'd be more interested," Buck blurted out."I'm sorry, did I miss something?" asked Hen."Oh, my mistake. I have discovered why Tommy is actually here. So, you can stop your charade and get to the point. And no, I haven't found out anything yet. We haven't even started looking because we've been busy with... you know. And don't worry, we're at my house right now."Hen swallowed. "Buck, I'm sorry. I should have told you. But... Tommy is a very dear client of mine. And at some point, we talked, and your name came up.""I'm one of your pick-up lines now? Wow! I-I don't know whether to be flattered or offended.""Buck, I'd appreciate it if you'd tone down the sarcasm. I've already apologized," Hen complained."Me, sarcastic? Never," Buck said."But you're being terribly sarcastic right now," Tommy chimed in.Buck felt his friend's warm breath on his neck, sending a pleasant shiver down his spine and instantly softening his stance."Okay, Hen. I’m sorry. I would have appreciated it if you two had found another solution. However, it is what it is, and we should leave it at that so I can focus on Tommy—I mean Tommy's sister and her missing son.""Just one more thing, dear Buck. If it wasn't for me, you would never have met Tommy, and you wouldn't have gotten laid before Christmas. So that's my early Christmas present to you. Ta-da."Buck sighed and ran a hand through his hair. "You're such a diplomat, Hen."Before he could continue, she asked, "Where is Jee?""Jee is with Martha and her family until tomorrow evening. And what about you? When will you be back?""I think I'll bring someone with me in the next few days. A friend called and asked if I'd like to spend Christmas with her. She broke up with her fiancé because he made out with her twin sister at the cake tasting. And they're not even identical. I'm trying to convince her to accompany me because she's holed up in her tiny apartment."Buck smiled and said, "Santa would be proud of you. You're playing matchmaker to a loner like me and nanny to a heartbroken friend. Like I said, we're at my house right now. But that doesn't mean I won't keep an eye on yours.""Thanks. I'll know more tomorrow. I'll call you as soon as I do. Please tell Tommy I said hi, or better yet, kiss him. You'll both get something out of it." Buck ended the call with a smile from ear to ear.Tommy sat on the edge of the desk, staring into space with his sightless eyes and clenching his jaw. He seemed lost in thought."Hey, Tommy. What's up?" asked Buck, who couldn't help but notice a change in his friend's mood.Tommy blinked as if waking from a dream.His Adam's apple bobbed a few times before he began to speak: "I asked you not to blame Hen for my lies. It was terrible of me to involve her. You should be angry with me. Sleeping with me doesn't change that.""I know, and I owe her an apology," Buck confessed. "But this whole thing is bothering me more than I thought. And I fell back into old patterns so quickly that I was mostly upset with myself. Unfortunately, I took my frustration out on her."Without warning, Buck closed his lips over Tommy's. When he stopped and took a step back, Tommy asked, "What was that for?""It's from Hen. She said it would be better than sending you a greeting because we'd both get something out of it."Now, even Tommy had to grin. "Do you think she was trying to set us up all along?""You might be right, and I'd say she actually succeeded. Or how do you see it?" Buck closed his eyes and bowed his head in shame. "Shit. Sorry.""Buck, please, I've already explained to you that I don't mind...""I know, but I still think it is wrong. It's just that you're not blind; you don't seem that way to me. Oh God, I'm talking so much nonsense today. Maybe I'd better shut up."Tommy felt the warmth radiating from Buck's body and put his arm around his waist."You've just told me something wonderful because you accept me for who I am and that my blindness doesn't matter to you. Thank you."They kissed, and the phone rang again."I'm starting to think we're being watched or cursed," Buck said. A glance at the display told him it was Martha."Buckley.""Hi, Uncle Buck.""Hey, Jee, how's it going, little princess? You all right?" Buck's mood brightened instantly."I'm having a great time. We are going sledding and would like you and Uncle Tommy to join us. We could meet at the sledding hill. Please, say yes."Buck could see Jee staring at him with her beautiful, big eyes."Wait, Uncle Tommy is standing right next to me. I'll ask him. Just a moment, please."Buck turned to Tommy: "Dear Uncle Tommy, How about we go sledding along with the children? We'll meet them at the sledding hill."Tommy nodded, "Sounds great. Just tell me when.""Jee? We'll be there."Buck had to hold the phone away from his ear as Jee screamed with joy. A moment later, he said excitedly, "We'll see you in an hour," and hung up."Now you're deaf, and I'm officially Uncle Tommy," Tommy said, grinning. "I like that."Buck grinned, too and shook his head. "We should get dressed. I also need to go to the garage and get the sled ready.""I can't even remember the last time I sat on one," Tommy said as they climbed the stairs arm in arm."I hear it's like riding a bike. And I'll be by your side the whole time. I promise."With each step, the snow crunched beneath their feet. Buck pulled the sled behind him as they walked along the path, flanked by tall, snow-covered trees that transformed the landscape into a serene winter wonderland. Tommy enjoyed listening to Buck's vivid descriptions, and despite the chill, both felt an increasing sense of excitement about the adventure that awaited them at the top of the hill."So, you're planning to take a death-defying plunge down the hill," Buck joked."Death-defying are the others who are there," Tommy said. "Isn't there a saying that goes: 'Never trust a blind man on a sled' or something like that?"Buck snorted, "To be honest, I initially thought you were more of a serious businessman than a daredevil.""Fortunately, I've got some pictures on my laptop to prove you wrong. I've always been a bad boy," Tommy teased."Well, now you've piqued my interest, Uncle Bad Boy. I hope there are some naked pictures of you, too.""Not that I know of.""That's a shame, though.""Why? From now on, you'll always have a living object at your disposal."Buck fell silent. Tommy didn't need eyes to see that something was wrong. He felt it."Hey, did I say something wrong?"Buck paused for a moment, his eyes staring at the floor as he considered his following words. Finally, he spoke, his voice sounding uncertain. "When you say I'll always have the living object at my disposal from now on, what exactly do you mean by that? Don't get me wrong, I really enjoy spending time with you. I'm just not sure what will happen when your vacation ends and you have to return to the city. Jee and I have made this place the center of our lives, and I have no intention of ever leaving. So, I just wanted to make sure we were on the same page.""I think we'll find a solution." Tommy didn't get any further because two small whirlwinds rushed towards them, attacking immediately.Tommy had already heard Jee and Theodore approaching. Buck, who tried to warn them to be careful, was completely ignored."Don't worry, Buck, I can handle the little monsters," Tommy laughed, shaking off the children as if they were drops of water.Their attention shifted to Buck, and when Jee became particularly lively, Buck playfully grabbed a handful of snow and rubbed it on her face. She squealed, and Theodore doubled over with laughter, his joy echoing through the frosty air."That's enough. I thought we came here to go sledding," Buck said. When Martha joined them, she playfully declared to the two children that she would sell their sleds to the highest bidder. Jee and Theodore scrambled to sit on their sleds quickly, eager to prove their readiness.Buck brushed the snow off of his and Tommy's clothes. Together, they trudged up the hill."Let the games begin," Buck chuckled as he moved the sled into position. "Are you ready, Uncle Tommy?""It feels like I'm standing at the Grand Canyon, plunging into the depths with a loose bungee cord around my feet," Tommy said, a hint of uncertainty in his voice. "But then, someone told me recently that it's like riding a bike and that he would stand by me no matter what.""Let me be your loose bungee cord," Buck joked."My friend, I already consider you a loose cannon. We're long past bungee ropes," Tommy replied but didn't move."What?" asked Buck."Judging by the noise, it sounds like there are a lot of children running around here," Tommy remarked."Oh, some of them are screaming for attention," Buck explained before declaring, "I'm driving. You ride shotgun.""I’m used to being in charge," Tommy jokingly protested."I have no intention of ending up in the bushes, my dear Tommy. Shotgun," Buck insisted again.They both settled into their seats, and Tommy wrapped his arms tightly around Buck's waist."Tommy, give me some more leverage. You're squeezing the air out of me," Buck said with a chuckle."Sorry, I get a little nervous when you're in charge," Tommy admitted.Buck reached back and playfully slapped Tommy's face."Ouch! You seem to really enjoy hitting me," Tommy complained, then playfully nibbled at Buck's earlobe.Buck felt a pleasant shiver run down his spine."Stop messing with the driver," he gasped.They set off, hurtling down the hill with increasing speed. The children cheered loudly, marveling at the sight of the two men racing past them.Buck began to feel uneasy as the sled picked up momentum, realizing their combined weight might be too much for the sled to handle. In an urgent voice, he called out to Tommy, "Put your legs down! You have to help me slow down the sled!"Tommy responded immediately, stretching his long legs out to the side. Together, their legs dragged through the snow, slowing the sled until it came to a safe stop. The children watched in amazement as the two men dismounted, their breaths coming in heavy puffs in the frosty air."One more time!" shouted Tommy with the excitement of a child, making Buck laugh as he took his hand. They trudged up the hill again, only to be greeted by a flurry of snowballs."Attack from the left," Buck warned Tommy.The two friends quickly crouched down, scooping up fresh snow to form their own ammunition. Tommy, guided by the children's cheers, showed surprising skill, and his aim was quite accurate.Suddenly, little Jee charged at Tommy with all her might, knocking him down. Buck couldn't help but smile as he watched them tumble down the hill together. He quickly tied the sled to a nearby tree and ran after them, the sound of Tommy and Jee's laughter echoing through the crisp winter air."Are you two okay?" Buck asked, panting.Tommy extended his hand and said, "Please, help me up."Before Buck could react, Tommy pulled him down, scooped up some snow, and rubbed it across Buck's face."You sneaky bastard," Buck spluttered, laughter in his voice. "We're not done yet."Buck quickly instructed Jee in the sign language they had honed over the years. The little girl eagerly complied, putting a handful of snow into Tommy's jacket, causing him to release Buck immediately."I have allies," he said triumphantly, picking up Jee to hug her. "You did a great job."Poof!Tommy had one snowball left, and it landed in Buck's face. The three of them laughed until their bellies hurt.Tommy complained, "Ah, shucks. The soup is running down my back.""It's your own fault," Buck replied.Tommy lunged at him but missed."Try harder," Buck laughed, taking Tommy's hand."You'll pay for this," Tommy said with a grin."You shouldn't make promises you can't keep," Buck teased, watching Jee return to Theodore.Tommy didn't lift a finger this time when Buck asked him to help slow down the sled. Revenge from earlier, no doubt. The tree was getting closer and closer."There's a tree, Tommy!" Buck shouted in panic.They scraped past it and were thrown from the sled. Buck lay on his back while Tommy landed on his knees."Evan?" he asked immediately.Buck didn't say a word."Evan, where are you?" Tommy reached out and grabbed the overturned sled."Damn it, Evan, this isn't funny," he hissed.Buck smiled to himself but remained silent. Tommy grabbed one of Buck's arms."Evan, is that you?" Panic crept into his voice."Say something, are you alright? Please answer me."Tommy removed his gloves, put them beside him and ran his hands over Buck's face.Gently cupping Buck's cheek, he leaned down and whispered in a choked voice, "Please say something."Noticing the tears on Tommy's face, Buck knew he had gone too far with his supposed joke, so he took him in his arms and kissed him tenderly."I'm so sorry. I'm an idiot." Buck apologized. It broke his heart to see his friend so upset."Don't ever scare me like that again," Tommy whispered. "Do you hear me? Never again." He clung to Buck."I promise. I swear it. Now let's go to Mrs. Bishop's, get some groceries, and I'll cook you a stew to make up for the crap I just pulled. Okay?" Buck said, fighting back tears.Tommy had buried his head in Buck's jacket. "Your stew won't be enough," he replied hushed.They got up and brushed the snow off their clothes, then went to say goodbye to Jee and the Thomson family.Tommy still didn't seem to have fully recovered from Buck's silly prank. The look on his face didn't bode well."Are you still mad at me?" Buck asked halfway to Mrs. Bishop."Your idea to play dead wasn't very funny," he said. "You made a fool out of me and made me realize how helpless I can be. I hate that."That hit home."I'm really sorry," Buck apologized again as a lump formed in his throat.Tommy remained silent for the rest of the walk, lost in his thoughts. However, as they stepped into the small shop, his demeanor shifted. He greeted Mrs. Bishop behind the counter with a charming hello and flashed a bright, warm smile that instantly lit up the room."Well, well, well. Look who the cat dragged in," Mrs. Bishop chirped. "What can I do for you, gentlemen?"Buck rattled off his shopping list, and Mrs. Bishop efficiently packed everything into two brown shopping bags, which Buck then placed on the sled before paying. Just as they were about to leave, Mrs. Bishop reappeared with a large plate of homemade chocolate chip cookies, her eyes twinkling with pride."These are on the house, boys," she said warmly. "I made them fresh this morning. Enjoy!"Buck's smile widened as he took a cookie, the rich aroma of chocolate filling the air. They thanked Mrs. Bishop for her kindness. Before they made their way back outside into the crisp, snowy air, he handed Tommy a cookie."I hope to see you more often. You're such a lovely couple and a sight for sore old eyes," she called after them.Tommy said over his shoulder, "Sure, we'll keep in mind to visit your shop at least twice a week."Laughing, he and Buck left.

----- CHAPTER BREAK -----

When they arrived at Buck's house, Buck once again apologized for his earlier thoughtlessness. Tommy offered a tired smile, kissed him on the forehead, and said he was exhausted and needed to rest. Buck understood."I'll wait on cooking and go to my little cabinet of horrors to check on things," he said.Tommy hesitated. "Are you sure you're okay with that?"Buck nodded. "Don't worry, I'm fine."Tommy helped Buck put the food away before lying down on the couch. Buck gave him a worried glance. Even though Tommy had said he wasn't angry anymore, Buck felt a pang of guilt. Given their brief talk about a possible common future, Tommy had assured him it would be no problem to leave the city behind, but could Buck really ask him to? What right did he have? Chaos reigned in Buck's head. Before heading down to the basement, he tucked Tommy in, who mumbled a sleepy "Thank you" without moving.Buck had not been idle; he had sent several emails to various contacts. Now, he sat at his desk, eager to see the responses. As soon as he opened the first reply, his mood plummeted. Some departments had been reorganized, and one of his former colleagues, who had always made his job difficult, now held a powerful position. Several disputes with Gerrard had gone against Buck. Buck could never repay him. The kidnapping had upended his world permanently. Moreover, his friend Freddy had been transferred out of the evidence chamber. Buck was sure Gerrard was behind it. The bastard never liked Freddy.Buck decided to contact his friend Eddie Diaz, one of the FBI's best profilers. If Eddie looked into the case, maybe he could shed some light on it or find a new approach. But Buck didn't hold much hope.After finishing his emails and phone calls, he went upstairs to the kitchen, but not before checking on his friend. Tommy was still asleep on the couch, looking peaceful and unchanged from when he first lay down. Buck found the sight endearing and snapped a picture with his cell phone. He wanted to kiss Tommy and show him how much he cared, but he didn't want to wake him. Plus, his growling stomach reminded him it was time to cook dinner.Tommy woke up half an hour later, feeling rested. He smiled, noticing the quilt tucked around him. He couldn't remember ever feeling so safe. It was a feeling he could get used to, though it also scared him. Tommy had spent most of his life alone and was about to dive headfirst into a relationship. Did he really know what he was getting himself into? Despite this, Tommy knew enough to be willing to leave his life in the city behind. Yes, he had friends, but no one who could offer what Buck could: a real home.Could a tragedy have led him to the love of his life? Tommy heard Buck tinkering in the kitchen, whistling, "Don't Worry, Be Happy." It was an ironic yet fitting tune, considering the circumstances. Tommy's cell phone rang, pulling him from his thoughts.Meanwhile, Buck was busy making a salad. The steaks were in the oven, keeping warm. Cooking was one of Buck's passions, and he had enjoyed it even more since Tommy had come into his and Jee's lives. Of course, he loved his niece, and the girl adored him in return, but Buck had often felt lonely."Hey," he suddenly heard Tommy's voice before he got hugged from behind, and Tommy nuzzled his nose into his neck."That smells fantastic." Tommy's warm breath ghosting over his ear and cheek sent a pleasant shiver down Buck's spine. He put down the salad servers and turned around."How are you?" Buck asked, almost worried.Tommy replied with a smile. "I'm doing great. In fact, I just got a call from my agent. I got an advance on my new book. It's been in select bookstores for two days, and sales are already going through the roof. She wants to know when my next novel will be ready."Buck saw the joy on Tommy's face. "That's great."They embraced. A shy kiss followed, becoming more and more demanding. Buck took the lead until they ended up on the couch."And the steaks?" asked Tommy."They're in the oven," Buck reassured him."Okay," Tommy replied. They couldn't get out of their clothes fast enough."I love you," Buck whispered."I love you too," Tommy replied.They made love like there was no tomorrow. Neither of them knew where one ended and the other began.It didn't take long for them to find a rhythm. Tommy pulled back until only the tip of his cock was inside Buck. Every nerve in his body lit up. The sound of their fucking, their grunts, their heavy breathing, and their moans filled the air. It drowned out every sound around them, and their world narrowed to just the two."God, you feel so good, so tight," Tommy said, his voice raw with emotion.Buck loved the feeling of being filled and stretched. Tommy prolonged his thrusts. He almost pulled out before slowly moving in again. Buck arched his back as Tommy's cock passed over his prostate, flooding his system with pleasure. All the while, the younger man kept his eyes on the beautiful face in front of him. At the same time, Tommy had his hands on Buck's face. Tommy fucked him harder, spurred on by his lover's movements and moans. He snaked a hand down to Buck's cock, wrapped his hand around it and began to jerk him off. Buck's eyes rolled into the back of his head as the sensation swept him away.It didn't take long for Buck's orgasm to hit. His hips jerked as he came, and moans escaped his mouth. Tommy picked up the pace and fucked Buck through his orgasm. He came and coated Tommy's hand with his cum, splattering their stomachs. It wasn't long before Tommy was moaning, his own orgasm hitting him like a wrecking ball. He buried himself deep in Buck's ass, filling the condom. Buck shivered. Tommy continued to stroke Buck's cock, milking him dry. As Tommy's still hard cock continued to stimulate his prostate.Slowly, their breaths evened out. Tommy buried his face in the crook of Buck's neck, riding the wave of ecstasy even as he felt his orgasm fade.  Tommy reluctantly pulled out, not ready to leave the tight heat."How about round two in a couple of hours?" Tommy grinned."Maybe sooner," Buck said mischievously. "But not until we've had a bite to eat. I'm starving."They chuckled. Ignoring the mess between them, they lay on the couch in a tangle of limbs until they decided to go to the bathroom, where they continued to make out.They stood in a tight embrace, their cocks dueling as the warm water cascaded down their bodies."I want to suck you," Buck said, sinking to his knees. He took Tommy's cock in one hand, dipped his head and licked the tip, tasting him. He closed his eyes in bliss and wrapped his lips around the head of Tommy's cock, swirling his tongue around it. The feeling of Buck's beautiful lips around his cock drove Tommy crazy. He propped himself up on the tiled wall with one hand and repeatedly whispered, "Evan." The wet warmth around his hard shaft felt incredible.Tommy ran his hand through Buck's wet hair and slowly rolled his hips, thrusting gently into Buck's mouth, taking his cock deeper, letting it hit the back of his throat. His nose touched Tommy's pubic hair while Tommy tightened his hand in the wet curls and rocked his hips harder, fucking Buck's mouth, setting every nerve ending ablaze. He wanted this not to end, but Buck's skilled tongue made it impossible."Fuck," he moaned. "Not going to last, Evan, stop!"Tommy's hips jerked, and he pulled at Buck's hair. His legs threatened to give way as he came with full force and shot his load into Buck's mouth, who moaned and swallowed it all but continued to suck enthusiastically, hoping for more. He was rewarded with another spurt. Soft sounds of pleasure escaped his throat until he pulled his cock out of Buck's mouth."God, that was great," Tommy said, helping Buck to his feet.Buck's cock was still hard and begging for release. Tommy gently pushed his friend against the wall and tongue fucked him in the same rhythm he jerked him off. As he tasted himself on Buck's tongue, he deepened the kiss. Buck came within seconds. He broke the kiss and bit down on Tommy's shoulder to stifle his cry. Buck's cum mixed with the warm water and ran down the drain.He leaned against Tommy and chuckled. "I marked you.""I know, and I love it," Tommy replied."God, where does this end?" Buck asked."I only know that I have never felt so good. You make me feel alive, Evan, and that's a feeling I want to cherish until my last breath." They kissed. It was a slow, lazy kiss. Both were sated and felt safe in each other's arms.Buck didn't know why, but that night, his nightmares returned.
He was back in the basement with the serial killer. It smelled of death and chemicals. Buck had picked up enough profiler knowledge to get a picture of the man he was helplessly at the mercy of. Besides, Buck wasn't kidding himself. He wasn't going to get out of here alive, not if this psychopath had his way. Lewis returned and held a cup containing a mixture of water and bleach under Buck's nose. The smell alone made him gag.

He pressed his lips together, but the killer forced him to swallow. Tears streamed down his cheeks. Suddenly, something tightened in his throat, and Buck couldn't breathe. The walls of the room caved in, threatening to crush him.
He woke up screaming. Tommy immediately pulled him into his arms."Evan, for God's sake, what's wrong?" he asked worriedly."It's... I'm fine. I just had a nightmare. Phew. I haven't had one in a long time," he said, trying to sound casual.But Tommy wasn't buying it. "You don't have to pretend with me. Was it about your… kidnapping?"Buck hesitated at first but then nodded, "Yes. I was back in that basement, and he made me drink that horrible mixture of bleach and water. Over and over again. I thought I was going to choke."Tommy swung his legs out of bed."Wait, where are you going?""To make you a cup of hot chocolate, my grandmother's recipe.""But Tommy, you're blind. You don't even know where everything is in the kitchen.""Then come with me and show me. Okay?""Okay," Buck agreed. Tommy sounded so determined. He didn't want to tell him no.Tommy fumbled for his jeans, pulled them on, and went into the kitchen; Buck, wearing only his boxer shorts, was hard on his heels."I need milk, a vanilla pod, cinnamon, marshmallows and rum.""Rum? Did your grandmother put rum in your hot chocolate when you were a child?" Buck asked, baffled.Tommy shook his head and laughed, "No, I added that ingredient later. Don't worry about it. Grandmother's hot chocolate was suitable for children."Buck handed Tommy the ingredients he had asked for. It never ceased to amaze him how his blind friend moved with such precision, confidently mixing everything. When they sat at the kitchen table a short time later, sipping from their mugs, Buck couldn't help but be full of admiration.Tommy nodded and smiled, but his thoughts seemed far away."Tommy, are you okay?"He shook his head, "No, not really. Listen, there's something we need to talk about."Buck almost choked on his drink. "I thought we agreed on no more secrets.""This is not about secrets. Two things, one about you and one about you and Jee."Buck frowned, "Now I'm completely confused.""Look, you know my sense of touch is extremely keen," Tommy said.At first, Buck nodded, replying, "Yes, of course. You've proven that many times.""When you and I, you know, have sex. I've often noticed the scar on your side. It's shaped like leaf. I haven't dared to ask, but is that...?""A souvenir of Lewis? Yes, Tommy. It is. He had medical training, that weirdo. And he removed my spleen without anesthetic. Fortunately, I barely remember it. But this leaf-shaped scar is a silent reminder of what I went through. I can't tell you how much I hate it. But it will forever be a part of me."Tommy placed his hand on Buck's. "I'm so sorry. I shouldn't have asked."Buck stroked the back of Tommy's hand with his thumb. "It's all right. You have the right to know everything, even the things that haven't been reported in the media. After all, you plan to give up your whole life and move in with me and Jee."Tommy remained silent."Tommy? That's what you're planning, isn't it?"Tommy nodded. "Yes, that's what I'm planning. It's also the other thing I need to talk about because I'm wondering if I have the right to force myself into your and Jee's lives. It doesn't matter where I write books, whether from here or… there. But I feel like... Evan, you hardly know me. Yes, we sleep together and have a lot of fun, and Jee seems to like me too, but...""Tommy, please. Jee doesn't just like you. She adores you. Of course, we want you in our lives," Buck said, almost desperate."Don't you think we should let Jee decide? I want us to ask her. Is that okay with you?""Yes, yes, of course it is. But I already know the answer.""I want it that way, Evan. Please. Let's ask Jee first, and if she agrees, I'll make the necessary arrangements so we can move in together.""Of course, Tommy. I want you to know you're an asset to our lives. We believe in you, in a future with you."Buck pulled Tommy close and kissed his forehead."I love you, Tommy. Jee loves you."Tommy nodded, leaning his forehead against Buck's.

----- CHAPTER BREAK -----

It was unbelievable how fast the days flew by. Hen returned earlier than planned, bringing along her heartbroken friend, Karen. Something had clearly prompted their early return, but neither woman was willing to discuss it.Meanwhile, Tommy was engrossed in his new novel. He had created a hero named Oliver Steel, who bore many similarities to Buck. Tommy frequently sought Buck's advice on character development. During one of their conversations, Buck recounted an old case, which Tommy decided to incorporate into his novel, albeit in a modified form.Buck was overjoyed to have little Jee back. They cooked and played together, and when Buck retreated to his basement office, Jee would play next to Tommy or sit and watch him type. Occasionally, she would ask Tommy questions, which he patiently answered.One evening after dinner, they all sat together in the living room, with Jee perched on Buck's lap. She sensed something was amiss as she observed the unusual behavior of the two adults."Uncle Buck, are we celebrating Christmas earlier?" Jee asked, her eyes curious as they spent the afternoon decorating the tree with Tommy's assistance.Buck exchanged a loving Eddie with Tommy before taking her hand. "Not exactly, we both want to ask you something," he said, his voice wavering as he fought back tears."You okay?" Jee asked, worried, and put her arms around Buck's neck. "I love you," she whispered into his ear."I love you too, my little princess," Buck replied, a tear streaming down his cheek, which he quickly wiped away. He held Jee at arm's length and said, "And Tommy loves you very much, too."Jee turned to look at Tommy, who appeared lost and sad. He felt Buck's emotion and squeezed his hand in support."And Tommy loves you too, Buck. I wish he could stay with us. Then you wouldn't have to cry anymore," Jee suddenly blurted out.Touched by her words, Buck swallowed hard before asking, "You really mean that?"Jee nodded vigorously."Then you wouldn't mind if I moved in with you two?" Tommy's voice cracked with emotion."No," Jee said, throwing herself at a startled Tommy. He reacted instantly to catch her, preventing her from falling off the couch."Careful," Buck warned, but it was too late. Jee clung to Tommy's neck as if her life depended on it, and Buck joined in the embrace."You wanted to ask me something," Jee said after giving Tommy a wet peck on the cheek.Both men laughed."It's okay. It's okay. You've already answered the question," Buck said.They sat together for a while, munching cookies, drinking milk, and chatting. Jee said she would make a welcome card for Tommy and introduce him to all her friends, many of whom were away with their families for the holidays. Eventually, the little girl couldn't stop yawning, and Buck decided it was time for her to call it a night.After they bathed Jee and put her to bed, not without a good night story from Tommy, the men were back in the living room, alone."You know, you're a great dad," Tommy began. When Buck started to speak, Tommy shook his head. "No, let me finish. I want you to know that I will support you as best I can. But I know I'll never be able to hold a candle to you. So, I'll probably be more involved with the finances of our little family than with Jee's upbringing."Buck shook his head, "I don't think there's much point in worrying about divisions. We've managed quite well without a plan so far, don't you think?"Tommy sounded defeated.As panic rose, Buck tried to read his friend's expression. "Oh my God... Don't tell me you have second thoughts?"Tommy pulled him into his arms. "I've never been so sure of anything in my life. What I'm worried about is me. I... I'm afraid I won't live up to your and Jee's expectations. You two are such a tight team, I feel like...""Shh, shh, shh. Shut up really quick, Tommy. Ever since you came into my... our lives, I've learned what it means to be happy again. You heard Jee. I had no idea she knew how bad I felt sometimes, how sad I was. I often cried myself to sleep. Because as much as I love her, my life was so focused on her that I forgot I had needs and a life of my own. Tommy, never question if you're enough. You are all that I could ever wish for and so much more. I love you, Tommy Kinard, with every fiber of my being.""I love you too, Evan Buckley. You and your daughter. You both fill my life with such joy."Tommy was about to seal his words with a kiss when Buck's cell phone rang. A sideways glance told him it was Eddie."I'd better take this," Buck said. He pulled away from Tommy's embrace, took the phone, and went to the kitchen. There, he talked to his former colleague for about ten minutes. When he finished the call, he grabbed two cans of soda from the fridge, sat down next to Tommy, and handed one to him.Tommy overheard some parts of the conversation and deduced the rest from Buck's behavior. He didn't need eyes to know something was bothering his friend. He sensed it in the way Buck's whole demeanor changed."I take it that wasn't good news," he said in a hushed voice.Buck sighed and shook his head. "No, unfortunately not."Since there was no point in beating around the bush, Buck cut to the chase."So, Eddie Diaz, the profiler I told you about, was with Kramer."Tommy put the can on the table. "And?""He believes that Kramer is telling the truth. The bastard brags about what he did. He has too much detailed knowledge. Eddie put him to the test, and he passed with flying colors.""Does that mean he's also telling the truth about Lian?" Tommy's features darkened.Buck took Tommy's hand. "Eddie won't commit to that. You know hope dies last. Besides, Kramer's keeping the FBI in the dark about what he's done with the bodies. They've already turned his house upside down and dug up his entire yard. He just makes fun of it and thinks he's an absolute genius.""He must have a very sick mind," Tommy said."I feel sorry for the parents of those poor children who have to go through so much, like your sister. Kramer is having a ball showing off. Eddie says he's brilliant. His IQ is supposed to be over 200. It shows once again how close genius and insanity accompany each other.""How long do you think he will play this game?" asked Tommy."I have no idea. It could be that he's hoping to get away with it. If there are no bodies and no conclusive evidence, he might be sentenced to a few years in a mental facility. That's how some criminals have successfully escaped justice in the past.""I can't believe it. He brags about killing children, but because they can't prove anything, there are mitigating circumstances?" Tommy shook his head."Now you understand why I quit my job: sometimes I had to stand by and watch them acquit a guilty man right in front of me. And shortly after that, he committed another murder. They caught him, but it wouldn't have been necessary if they had put him behind bars right away."Buck sighed."Have you made any progress with the photographs Wen sent you?""Unfortunately not, Tommy. I've sent the photos of your nephew to Eddie, and he's already run them through some databases—so far, without success. Sorry. Also, I don't have anything yet on the photos Wen sent me of the boy she saw. They were taken from a distance and aren't much use for comparison. I haven't made any progress on the witness protection program either. Right now, it's really jammed. I'm sorry."Sensing Buck's exhaustion, Tommy put his arm around his friend's shoulders and pulled him close."I'm starting to feel like the worst person on the planet. I'm truly thankful for what you do for me and my family. But honestly, I didn't think it would be this hard," Tommy said."It's okay," Buck kissed his cheek tenderly. "I'm used to puzzles like this. Right now, none of the pieces fit together. But eventually, they will. If only Kramer would tell the FBI what he did with the bodies."Tommy suggested, "Maybe he dumped them in a reservoir, burned them, or dissolved them in acid."Buck smiled, "That's the writer in you, Tommy. But you're right. Anything is possible with Kramer.""Anything, yeah. Except for one thing: he is speaking the truth," Tommy said bitterly."Unfortunately, according to Eddie, there is not the slightest doubt about it," Buck hugged Tommy briefly.His gaze fell on the grandfather clock next to the kitchen door. "Excuse me for a moment," Buck got up. "I'm running rendering software in the basement. For the pictures, you know.""Can I come with you? I don't seem to have any real ideas at the moment. Or rather, I don't know how to put them into words yet." Tommy felt miserable."Of course," Buck replied. He waited until Tommy linked arms with him. Together, they went downstairs.The computer had finished its work. "Let's have a look at the results," Buck said, pressing a few buttons. Disappointed, he looked at the folder that kept the rendered pictures."Shit!""Let me guess, it didn't work," Tommy commented on Buck's outburst."Not quite; the photos of that child, along with the scanned pictures of your nephew… it's just chaos. It could be anyone. A comparison is impossible. But I have an idea. I'll put the call on speaker so you can hear it right away."Buck went to the phone and dialed Natalia Russo's number, his last hope regarding the witness protection program."Hi, Natalia, this is Buck.""Buck, who?" she asked."Evan Buckley, white lab coat, nerdy, you once compared me to Clark Kent and told me to get glasses, ring a bell?" Buck helped her. Tommy sat on the edge of the desk beside him, grinning goofily."Ah, now I remember. Didn't we have something in the elevator at FBI headquarters? The night a hacker attack shut down the entire building?"Tommy's eyes widened.Buck leaned over and whispered, "She's prone to morbid jokes, don't believe a word she says.Tommy shrugged with a grin."Are you really sure it was me and not Josh, the nerdy hotshot from Washington, DC? I would have made a more lasting impression in that elevator. I wouldn't have to tell you who I am.""Touche," she replied good-humoredly."Natalia, I need your help. A lot has changed in the department since I left. You're my last resort.""Fine, whatever you want, but you owe me dinner.""Can we have lunch?" Buck tried to bargain with her."Let's see. What kind of favor is it?""Do you have a secure line?" Buck asked first because you never know who might be listening.Natalia replied almost proudly, "Deadly secure, eavesdropping's not an option."Buck gave her a summary of what had happened. As he finished, he could hear her sighing."Evan Buckley," Buck rolled his eyes. It was not a good sign when she called him by his full name."Do you realize what you are asking me to do? And do you also realize that if my new boss finds out, I can throw a farewell party? Hell, Buck, I love my job. I'm not ready to throw in the towel. But surely you have room for a homeless FBI agent? Don't you?"Buck looked at Tommy, who made him smile by shaking his head as vigorously as Jee had."Will you help me if I buy you a weekend at your favorite spa?""That sounds very tempting.""Will you help me?" Buck was sure she could hear his puppy dog eyes through the phone."Okay, I'll see what I can find out. But please, not a word to anyone," she said, serious this time."My lips are sealed, dear Natalia." They said goodbye, and Buck turned to Tommy."How do you know her favorite spa?" asked Tommy."I know it from her ex. He and I used to play squash together.""And you and Natalia? Nothing ever happened between you?" Tommy tried to make his words sound innocuous."Don't worry. We shared a tent once at a team building seminar.""And?" Tommy seemed to be eager for details."We were making out. One thing led to another, and then a snake suddenly appeared in our tent. Natalia thought I was particularly flexible between the legs." Buck tried not to lose it. His lips twitched. He was glad Tommy couldn't see his face."You made that up," Tommy laughed."No, you're welcome to call her and ask. I'll even dial her number for you."Buck turned off his computer, and they both went upstairs laughing."Can we reenact the tent incident in the bedroom? My cock could do the part with the snake that gets lost in one of your orifices," Tommy suggested.Buck immediately got Kopfkino.When they reached the top of the stairs, their bodies trembling with laughter, they leaned against the railing to catch their breath. Their laughter echoed through the corridor, momentarily making them forget the outside world. Despite the weight of the not-so-good news they had just received, it was as if a heavy burden had been lifted from their shoulders. Buck told Tommy how Jee's eyes sparkled with excitement as she expressed her wish for Tommy to be a part of their lives. It was a magical moment. All three knew they had been given the greatest Christmas gift ever—true love and the hope that it would last a lifetime.

----- CHAPTER BREAK -----

The holidays came and went. Jee was with Hen. They were baking a cake for Tommy's upcoming birthday. Hen made the best cakes. Buck often told her that if she ever gave up her job, she should open an online shop for designer cakes. She and Jee were working on a cake that would look like a book, but that was all Buck knew. His friend and Jee didn't want to reveal too much.Buck was downstairs while Tommy was in the former guest room they had converted into an office, writing his novel about the oh-so-great FBI agent. Buck didn't feel that great at all. He was just depressed. Taylor had called, and what she had to tell him was anything but pleasant. With a few tricks, a lot of money provided by Tommy, and a little pressure, she found out everything about the boy Wen had seen and believed to be her son.But he wasn't. The boy's family had been placed in witness protection because they had unfortunately witnessed the murder of a high-ranking Triad member. It was possible that little Lian might look like that today, but the resemblance wasn't that great when you looked closer. Buck had checked and rechecked. He felt bad. It was his turn again to take away a piece of someone's hope. God and it hurt him more today than ever. Because it was someone he loved dearly, he kicked the leg of the table angrily, wiped away his tears and went upstairs."Hi babe, spent enough time in the bunker?" he teased Buck.Yesterday, Tommy compared him to a World War II general sitting in his bunker, pulling all the strings and directing his troops from there. Buck laughed about it yesterday. Today, he knew they lost one battle."Your general has just received a report from one of his spies," he said in a raspy voice, "Agent Natalia has reported in."Tommy immediately stopped writing and turned to Buck, who could see the hope in his eyes. Seeing that light go out was like a dagger plunged into his heart."I say it as it is. The boy is not Lian. We both checked and rechecked. I'm sorry, my love."Tommy cleared his throat. Buck saw his disappointment. "Thank you, and thank you and Natalia for everything you have done. I should call my sister," he said, devastated and stood up. Buck met him halfway and hugged him."I'm sorry," he repeated, tears welling up in his eyes."It's not your fault," Tommy said gently, kissing Buck's hair. "The chances of it really being him were, in my opinion, slim to none."Buck felt him swallow.His tears soaked the writer's plaid shirt."Are you crying?" Tommy touched his face."I wish I had better news," Buck tried to regain his composure. The fact that this drama was about a little boy whose fate was unknown hit closer to home than he'd thought. That child might as well be Jee."I'm glad you looked into the case and pulled so many strings. You didn't have to. My family will always be in your debt."Tommy reached under Buck's chin and gently lifted his head. First, he kissed his mouth, and then he kissed away his tears."Many people hated me for being the bearer of bad news," Buck continued."I expect nothing from you; I've told you that a dozen times," Tommy stroked his cheek. "I love you so much it hurts, Evan. You have done so much for me since the day we met. You and Jee are the light of my life."Hearing him say that gave Buck goosebumps. Their kiss was tender, but it promised more. It lasted until the doorbell rang."Not again," Buck murmured into the kiss, pulled away from Tommy and walked to the door.It was the postman, "Hello, Buck. I have a parcel for Tommy Kinard."Buck was surprised. "Okay. Do you want me to go get him?""No, there's no need. You can take it. I just need a signature here." He held up his tablet and pointed to a framed box."Thank you, Buck. Looks like a late Christmas present," he said with a smile and left.Buck frowned."Who was it?" Tommy approached him curiously.Buck handed him the package, "Here, this is for you, whatever's inside," he said, hoping Tommy would give him a clue."Oh, it's from my agent," he said, "I asked her for a small favor.Now, that sounded mysterious."Mr. Kinard, given the look on your face... I am not sure what to make of it. As far as I remember, we agreed there would be no Christmas presents." Buck's pulse quickened."What look?"Before Buck could answer, he was pulled into Tommy's arms, who closed his mouth over those beautiful, already kiss-swollen lips.He placed the package on the table behind them and began to drive Buck crazy with his caresses. He pushed him onto the couch. In no time, Buck's shirt was on the floor, as well as his pants, and he was lying there in nothing but his boxers. Tommy had stripped off his shirt and pants as well. Buck inhaled his scent. The man was everything he'd ever dreamed of. When Tommy wrapped his strong fingers around Buck's cock, Buck thought he was going to die. By now, they knew every square millimeter of each other's body. Tommy knew what he had to do and pushed Buck to the edge several times."This is not fair and calls for revenge," Buck panted, reaching down and starting to stroke Tommy's rock-hard cock.Tommy responded with a hiss. Soon, the room was filled with their panting and moaning. Sunlight streamed in through the blinds, and dust particles that looked like floating diamonds danced through the air. They thrust into each other's fists. Their kisses became messy as their teeth clashed and their tongues dueled. With their desires unleashed, Buck felt his soul drawn to Tommy through his unseeing eyes. Lost in each other, they came at the same time. For a moment, all Buck could hear was the blood rushing in his ears.He slowly opened his eyes. Tommy had buried his face in Buck's shoulder. Their hearts still beat in a wild crescendo."What are you doing to me? I don't know myself anymore," Buck chuckled.Groggily, Tommy lifted his head to face Buck, "Losing control now and then... Sounds like a plan." There it was again, that killer smile.Buck still couldn't believe that this wonderful man was his. They got up from the couch and went to take a shower. It didn't take long for Buck to push Tommy against the wall, working him open with the help of shower gel and two fingers before Buck drove himself into him."I'm sorry, I can't help it," Buck gasped, kissing Tommy again to make up for his roughness. "You are so beautiful."Tommy chuckled. "What did I say about losing control every now and then, Evan..." Tommy gasped as Buck hit his sweet spot. "Please, please don't stop," he begged. "You're so tight and hot. I'm so close already," Buck continued to drive Tommy closer and closer to the edge of the cliff with his powerful thrusts. Tommy wanted to hold on to this feeling forever. But as he felt his orgasm building, he let Buck take the lead. He picked up the pace the moment Tommy let go, driving himself deeper into his lover.Buck couldn't help it when his body began to shake from the first wave of orgasm that hit him like a tidal wave, "Tommy, I'm coming," he warned."Please do it inside me!" Tommy begged. Seconds later, his own orgasm thundered through him, even without touching himself. Panting, they lay in each other's arms.Tommy stirred, moaning, then kissed Buck deeply, who held on to Tommy for a few moments until his body stopped shaking from the aftershocks of orgasm."I'm sorry, I didn't mean to..." Buck began."Don't be silly," Tommy said, kissing him again. He held on tightly as he was still a bit shaky."You were so hot. I couldn't help it. I hope you don't mind that we used the shower gel as a lubricant?" Buck asked. "It was just so easy to get to," he added with a smile as his body began to shake again from the aftershocks that hit him in little waves."I don't mind at all." Tommy beamed at him.Buck turned off the water. Then he led Tommy out of the shower, grabbed two cozy towels and handed one to his lover."I think we've made love everywhere in this house," Tommy joked as he dried himself."Except for the kitchen table and the washing machine," Buck replied with a grin, "but who knows, the day is still young.""Evan, don't you ever get tired?""Of loving you or making love to you? No, never."Tommy felt for Buck's hand. "I love you," he said as they intertwined their fingers.Suddenly, he became serious, "Time to call Wen and tell her what Natalia found out.""Yes, do that, unless you'd rather I..." Buck suggested.Tommy shook his head, wrapped the towel around his waist, and entered his office. He picked up his phone and said, "Call Wen."Their conversation didn't last long. When he returned to the living room, he seemed surprisingly more composed than Buck, who was getting dressed, had expected.He handed Tommy his clothes. While he put them on, he told Buck about the phone call. "Wen said to give you her regards and thank you for all the trouble you've gone through.""Was she very disappointed?" Buck's heart pounded in his throat."She said she felt it somehow. She had little hope left, but she wanted to be sure. Imagine if it had been Lian and she had ignored everything."Buck nodded, "Of course. I wish I could..."Tommy gnawed on his bottom lip. "How about we look at some pictures from days gone by?" he said, changing the subject."Hm? Do you carry an album with you?" Buck teased him."Something like that. A friend of mine scanned some photos for me. I used to be able to look at them on the screen at the highest resolution." Buck sensed that Tommy was getting a little sentimental."And you've kept them from me for so long. Shame on you," Buck slapped the back of his head playfully."I treasure them. But you have proved yourself worthy enough to see them now," Tommy quipped."Idiot."They walked into the office, and Buck watched in fascination how skillfully Tommy handled his laptop, even though he couldn't see. Much of it with the help of the Braille keyboard, of course. And spoken commands.He opened the folder on his hard drive. "Here we go. Take a look at Tommy Kinard's other life," he smiled as Buck clicked through a series of pictures.Fascinated, he stared at the screen. The photos showed Tommy on the football team, from an infant to a teenage star. Deeply moved by these insights into his lover's life, Buck couldn't speak."You're not saying anything, Evan. Was I that ugly?" Tommy joked.Buck couldn't find the words; the lump in his throat threatened to burst.Pictures from days ago captured a beaming champion proudly holding a large trophy surrounded by a jubilant crowd of young fans. But then, the photos took a turn. Tommy, once the picture of victory, was now shown struggling to learn Braille—a handsome boy amidst a class of blind students. The glitz and glamour had faded, replaced by a raw and poignant reality."What was it like to be in a class with blind people when you could still see?" Buck asked cautiously, struggling to imagine such an experience."I learned a lot from them," Tommy replied. "I learned that a person isn't defined by their appearance. It didn't matter if you had a crooked nose or unfashionable clothes. We were all equal."He cleared his throat and blushed slightly. "I also met the first love of my life there."Buck continued clicking through the photos until he came across one that showed Tommy with another boy who radiated joy and confidence."That's him, Mike," Tommy said, his face taking on a wistful expression. "We were together for a while until his parents moved away. His father was a diplomat. I heard he's now somewhere in Africa, working for an NGO.""Really?" Buck asked, impressed."Fooled you," Tommy grinned. "I have no idea where he is now."Buck chuckled. "You can be very convincing and have a strange sense of humor. But I love it." He kissed Tommy on the cheek and snuggled up against him as the snow began to fall outside once again.Two days later, on Tommy's birthday, things escalated.Buck had planned a little birthday party for the afternoon. He was getting ready with Jee when Tommy poked his head in the door and said, "Buck, I need to talk to you alone.""I'll be right back. In the meantime, you can finish your painting for Tommy, okay?""Okay," Jee said. Buck ruffled the girl's hair and walked over to Tommy, sitting behind his desk with a frown."What's going on?" asked Buck."What's going on? You ask me what's going on. My father just called me. Wen is in the hospital with a nervous breakdown.""What? Why?" Buck was shocked."Please Evan, don't act like you don't know. You should have told me."He shook his head, "I swear I have no idea. Why don't you tell me what happened?""Your former colleagues went to Wen's and asked for toothbrushes and hairbrushes. They also had a doctor with them because they wanted to take a blood sample from her. But they didn't tell her much else. They needed material for a DNA comparison. If you hadn't asked me...""Stop, Tommy. I'm just as puzzled as you are. But I'll get to the bottom of this right away. I promise. Just give me a minute."With trembling fingers, Buck called Eddie. It rang three times before the profiler answered."Hi, it's Buck. Tommy told me the FBI went to Wen's house to get DNA samples; why didn't you tell me?"Eddie cleared his throat, something he always did when he was nervous. "I'm sorry. I wanted to inform you, but yesterday morning, there was some movement in the case, and since then, the bureau has turned into a zoo.""What the hell happened?""A fellow inmate attacked Kramer. He is dying and afraid he's not going to heaven or whatever. Anyway, he started talking. Several graves with human remains were found in an old quarry. Most of the bodies were unrecognizable because Kramer had covered them with lime. You know what that does to bodies. The only thing sure so far is that the remains belong to the children.""Holy shit. Any results yet?""Not yet. A team of forensic scientists is working on the case. But... Man, Buck, we could really use you here. None of them are as experienced as you. It's a mess. They're hopelessly overwhelmed. I know you don't want anything to do with it anymore, but..."Buck didn't have to think twice, "It's okay. You don't need to talk any further. Talk to your bosses and let me know where I should go.""I will. I'll send you the information. See you later."Buck ended the call. Since he didn't say anything, Tommy asked, "What's wrong, Evan?""I... I don't think I'll be able to make it to your birthday party." It wasn't easy for him to speak. "They... The FBI needs me.""Evan?""A fellow inmate attacked Kramer. The bastard won't survive. He started to confess. The bodies were found in a quarry. He poured lime over them. I don't have to tell you... Anyway, the forensic team on the scene is hopelessly overwhelmed. They've asked for my help."Tommy stood and walked around the table. He extended his hand to Buck. But Buck didn't take it."Tommy, I... I can't do this now. I need to deal with myself and talk to Jee. I need to go away for a while. Days, weeks, I don't know yet. But...""I'm coming with you, Evan. Do you hear me? I'll go with you. I owe it to you. You wouldn't be in this mess if I hadn't come into your life.""You don't know what this means. It's anything but glamorous. It means endless long days and nights. I don't have time to take care of you. That's not a good idea. You'd better stay here with Jee. It's bad enough when I'm not here. She needs you. I can't take her with me."They were both on the verge of tears. Buck swallowed, but the lump in his throat wouldn't go away."So, what is it? Are you staying with Jee? Or do I have to take care of...""Evan, of course, I'm staying with Jee. But please check in with us as often as you can. Okay?"Buck nodded, "Yes, of course. If you'll excuse me, I must talk to my girl about this."The sky was cloudy as Buck boarded the plane and flew to warmer parts of the country. Unfortunately, he wasn't going on vacation. Buck felt like he was traveling to his execution despite the luxuries of business class and other perks, such as a lot of money and accommodations in a five-star hotel near the crime scene and his own car. Buck would have gone even if they hadn't offered him any of it.He had mixed feelings about going back to work. On the one hand, he was looking forward to it, but on the other, he was already dreading the sleepless nights and nightmares his job used to cause. Leaving Jee behind was not easy either. It hurt him deeply, as they had never been separated for such a long time before, and Buck wouldn't be just around the corner. However, Jee still had Tommy, Hen and Karen with her, as well as Martha and her family. Buck felt emotional as he thought about it but realized he was not as alone as he had thought.When Buck arrived at the hotel, he took his luggage to his room and went straight to a briefing in one of the seminar rooms the FBI had set up as temporary headquarters. A lot happened since he left the FBI three years ago. And he was treated much kindlier than he had been then. He was treated more like the star of the agency. It even embarrassed him. Never before had so many people asked for his opinion, considered his suggestions, and involved him. The working conditions were also different. The pressure was still the same, but the circumstances made it much easier to bear. Nevertheless, the identification of the bodies progressed slowly.One evening, there was a knock at the door of Buck's room."Eddie?" Buck said in surprise after opening it and seeing his former colleague."Am I interrupting something?""No, no, not at all. I've just finished my report. Come in.""Let's sit down at the hotel bar?"Buck agreed. A short time later, they made themselves comfortable with a drink each in a quiet corner of the lounge."Kramer died today," Eddie told him."And did that bastard say anything else that might help us?""No, but there is a safe deposit box. We have a court order to open tomorrow. We have no idea what's in it."Buck ran a tired hand over his face, "God, I'm glad the man is dead. Kind of. I feel bad for the families. I doubt we'll be able to identify all the bodies. That means more anonymous graves and a lot of bitter tears.""But also families who are happy to have closure finally. Speaking of which. Any leads on Tommy's nephew?"Buck shook his head. "Not the slightest. I already have a guilty conscience. What if we don't find him? Then, it would mean he might still be alive, or he might have fallen victim to a human trafficking ring. I don't want to think about that.""How is Wen doing? I'm sorry our colleagues scared her like that.""Tommy says she's recovered. But of course, it all came back to her now and she's getting impatient because there are no results yet.""And how are you, Buck?"He shrugged. "I'm doing better than expected. I don't know how long it will last.""Nightmares?""Eddie. Have they assigned you to be my psychologist?"Eddie laughed as he shook his head. "No, it's all my own doing. I just wanted you to know I'm here if you need someone to talk to. You have an iron will, Buck. I don't know anyone who could have handled what Lewis did to you as well as you did. You have my utmost respect.""If you hadn't put the pieces together, I would have rotted in that basement. So, thank you for that. Because I think I never did.""Not worth mentioning. What did you go through at work and in your personal life after that… It shouldn't have happened. I still don't understand how Taylor could turn her back on you.""I thought you and her..."Eddie shook his head. "Nothing was going on. However, she wouldn't have minded. But we're colleagues, so I graciously declined. Our jobs are complicated enough as they are."The two sat together for a while. Buck told him about Tommy. Eddie almost seemed a little disappointed that Buck was in a relationship now. But maybe Buck was imagining things. He was way too exhausted.Five weeks later, the last bodies were being removed from the quarry. Buck felt empty and burnt out. The nightmares were back, tearing him from his sleep almost every night. Buck felt like everything was starting to slip away from him. He was back to the point that had caused him to quit his job, except for the previous kidnapping.Buck wanted to get it over with. He longed for Jee and Tommy. With each passing day, Buck felt more and more alone. Even talking to them on the phone became difficult. He did not doubt Tommy must have realized by now that he wasn't feeling well.There was a knock.Buck got up and dragged himself to the door. "I'm coming."When he opened it, someone said, "Well, I hope so...""Tommy? You are here? But how?""Can I come in or stay out in the corridor?""Are you all right, sir?" a female voice asked from the end of the corridor."Yes, thank you. Everything's fine." Tommy grinned and turned back to Buck. "And? May I come in?"Only now did Buck notice the cane in Tommy's hand. He hadn't seen it in a long time."Of course, come in."When Tommy stood in the room, he said, "What's the matter? No hello, kiss, no hug?""Sorry, I... I don't know what to say."Tommy pulled him into his arms and kissed him tenderly. Buck closed his eyes. The tension of the past weeks fell away from him. He wanted to lose himself in those wonderfully strong arms. Only after a while did they let go of each other. Buck helped Tommy out of his jacket and led him to the couch."Is Jee here too?" asked Buck."No, she's with Martha and her family. I didn't want to bring him here. You said so yourself...""That's good. The next few days are going to be bad enough anyway. So, you came here all alone?""Not quite. Miriam, my publisher, came with me.""Do I have any reason to be jealous?" Buck joked."Buck, please. She can't hold a candle to you. She's visiting a friend and will be back in a week. But I had to promise Jee one thing. You have to Facetime with her. I tried to be a father to her as best I could. But...""I know I've been away from home too long. It's just, I can't leave here, not yet.""You don't sound well, Evan. Can't you at least take a break?"Buck shook his head, "No, we're about to finish. The last bodies have been recovered. I figure another week or two.""I hardly dare to ask. You haven't found any trace of Lian yet, have you?""No, and I'm so sorry. I wish there were more I could do for you. By the way, would you like something to eat? I've already eaten.""Thanks, no, I just want to take a shower and then go to bed. The flight was tiring.""That's a wish I can grant you right now."While Tommy was in the shower, Buck spoke to Jee via Facetime. He kept choking back tears. Especially when Jee told him how much she missed him.When Tommy came out of the bathroom, Buck was already in bed. Tommy lay down beside him and hugged him from behind. He tenderly kissed Buck's neck and shoulders, inhaled his scent and whispered in his ear, "I love you, Evan.""I love you too, Tommy," Buck murmured, wrapping Tommy's arm tighter around him and falling asleep. It was the first night in a long time that Buck finally slept soundly and without nightmares.When Buck woke the following day, the other side of the bed was empty. For a moment, he thought Tommy had left, but then he heard his friend exchanging a few words with someone and the door falling shut shortly after.Buck slipped into his fluffy bathrobe and went into the next room."Good morning. Oh, breakfast," he said."I hope you have time for it," Tommy replied. There was something strange about his way of behaving."For breakfast? Are you joking? Finally, a day that doesn't start with a day-old doughnut and coffee in a paper cup."Buck sat down beside Tommy. The large tray contained eggs, bacon, rolls, butter, croissants, coffee, tea, jam, and fruit salad."I didn't know what you were in the mood for," Tommy chuckled, correctly interpreting Buck's silence."This... this is perfect." As Buck reached for a roll, he stopped. A red velvet box caught his eye."Tommy?" he said as he reached for it."Yes, Evan.""Is it what I think it is?" he swallowed. Carefully, he opened the box and found a beautiful silver ring inside."Evan Buckley, I love you more than my life, and I want to spend the rest of it with you." Tommy had tears in his eyes as he spoke. "Please be careful what you say now because your daughter has already agreed."A wave of emotion swept over Buck. It was as if his breath had been taken away."Tommy, I... I don't know what to say...""How about: Yes?"Buck's heart pounded in his chest. He rose, walked over to Tommy, pulled him up into his arms and whispered through his tears, "Yes, Tommy, yes, a thousand times yes."The two kissed passionately, landing on the soft carpet and forgetting about breakfast for the time being.Two hours later, Buck stood in the tent that had been set up as a makeshift forensic lab right next to where the bodies had been found. Wearing a white hazmat suit, he and Eddie stood next to an empty examination table where a body bag had been recently removed. It had been a girl, about six years old."I'm sorry, Buck. But there's no doubt about it. Body number eight has been identified as the nephew of your friend...  I mean fiancé. Written confirmation should arrive by e-mail at any minute."Buck took off his gloves and pulled the mask from his face. "That is what I was afraid of. God, I hate to take all hope away from Tommy and his family.""If you want, I can come with you, in case Tommy has questions about Kramer or whatever," Eddie offered.Buck nodded, "Thanks, that's a good idea. I'll take him to the office.""Dr. Ruben said she could take over here.""No, that's fine. We should be done here in a couple of days. I'm surely not going to run away now.""I've ordered that no one is allowed to inform Wen unless I say so. We'll let Tommy decide what to do next."It was a day of highs and lows. And it broke Buck's heart that, after the proposal, he now had to break the bad news to Tommy that his nephew was one of the victims.When Buck picked him up to take him to the bureau, Tommy immediately knew what was happening. After their conversation, Tommy decided to fly to his sister. Buck was torn between love and duty. Eddie suggested that he accompanied Tommy and that Buck would follow as soon as he was finished here.Out of fourteen bodies, eight boys and six girls, eleven were identified, seven boys and four girls. The other bodies were too badly decomposed, and DNA comparisons were also unsuccessful. The case eventually made big headlines, and Buck's face was again on all the front pages. This time, however, he was the hero, not the victim. 
Eight months later
The FBI wanted him back, but Buck decided to only work as a consultant on rare occasions. Tommy's book became another bestseller, and he was already writing the sequel. Tommy and Buck's wedding was planned for a later date.As they lounged on the sandy shore of a picturesque Caribbean beach, Buck watched with satisfaction as Tommy and Jee worked together to build an impressive sandcastle. He had just awakened from a short nap and was pleased to see them bonding well. Sometimes, he couldn't help but feel a twinge of jealousy for Tommy, but he quickly dismissed it when he remembered how much the blind writer meant to him. Despite his life's difficulties, Tommy had brought light and happiness into Buck's world, and he was grateful for that.Buck took out his cell phone and snapped more pictures of them working on the sandcastle. Then he joined them in finishing the moat, carefully shaping the sand with his hands as he worked alongside Tommy and Jee. As the sun set, Buck built a campfire on the beach, and they gathered around it to roast marshmallows and tell stories. Tommy's tale of pirates on the high seas was particularly captivating, and Buck and his niece closely listened as he spun his tale.After Jee fell asleep in bed, Tommy and Buck retired to the beach in front of their bungalow. The waves gently lapping the shore provided a soothing backdrop as they made love several times, each moment more passionate than the last. Buck knew he was lucky to have found someone as special as Tommy, and they vowed never to take their time together for granted.
THE END