starbright73 (![[personal profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/user.png)
starbright73) wrote2008-05-27 04:50 pm
starbright73) wrote2008-05-27 04:50 pm
Entry tags:
- csi,
- fic,
- nick/warrick,
- pg-13
Fic: First Date (CSI, N/W, PG.13) 2/2
Title: First Date – or clueing in the clueless. 2/2
Author: *bright
Rating: Not quite NC-17 but definitely PG-13.
Spoilers: Up to season 3
Pairing: Nick/Warrick
Category: Prompt “First Date” at![[livejournal.com profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/external/lj-community.gif)
___nick_warrick
Summary: There are romantic first dates and then there are Nick 'n Rick dates.
Words: 12.408
Author's Note: Un-beta’d. Too big for one post so I had to cut it at the middle. Damn!
Disclaimer: Me own zip and nada, ‘cept an over active imagination.
Sara was blocking his path out the door and Warrick cursed silently. He'd been rattled by Nick's strong reaction, both by the erection he had felt pressed up to him and the subsequent bolt out of the room. He remembered Grissom talking about males getting erections while hanged and he wondered if Nick's reaction really wasn't what he'd hoped for, but instead down-right fear?
“Warrick?” Sara inquired again. “We really need to get samples of the vic's clothes to Greg and Hodges. Greg's already backlogged, if we don't get our samples in queue, we might have to wait days.”
“Yeah, yeah,” he said, his eyes still trained on the empty corridor where Nick had disappeared. They still had an hour left on shift, would he really take off and go home? Naw, not Nick, the dependable one would stay on shift even if the roof came down. But what the fuck had happened? He'd challenged Nick and Nick had answered, really surprising him with the swiftness. It wasn't out of malice he had pressed him up the wall, it was instinct. The hardness of the body he'd been wanting flush to his own for a long time had been right there at his reach, and there was no denying that he stayed pressed up to Nick for longer than necessary. When he'd felt the ridge pressed to his butt he'd literally had to fight himself not to turn and nestle his leg in between Nick's and press even harder. Instinct again? When it came to Nick it seemed to take over and his logical side was left behind, asking what the fuck just happened?
“Warrick, you gonna help out of what?”
He hesitated, torn by duty and need to find his bud and offer some explanation. But what was there to say? Uh, bro, I kinda like you in more ways than one?
“Warrick, what's up with the two of you? Can't decide on who won the bet?” Sara looked sternly at him, like demanding an explanation that he didn't have. He'd have to swing by Nick's place later and pry himself inside, whatever it took. Because they were going to be fine, there was no other option. He wouldn't lose Nick's friendship, not now, not ever.
“We're fine,” Warrick responded curtly. “What do you need me to do?”
Nick sighed with relief when he stepped into the locker room. It was empty, just like he'd calculated. It was fifteen minutes past ending of shift and Warrick would be on his way home by now, and with the weekend off that the man had before him it would hopefully be enough to have him forget the entire incident. At least that was what Nick was hoping for. Because he had not come up with a plausible excuse, and he'd gone through everything he knew about male physiology, and then some. Going through it had just managed to send him back to the layout room and Warrick pressed to him. Exactly what had landed him in trouble to begin with.
He changed into his civil clothes, trying not to think about the man and get into another predicament of having to drive how in too tight pants. All he needed now was to get home, get a cold shower and crash on his couch in front of the TV and if that didn't work, he was sure he had some forensic journal to dig into and really get out of this lusting mood. Tomorrow he'd hit the gym and work out. Use some old-fashioned sublimation to get over this ridiculous state. He grinned when he walked out, sure that his plans would work out. Warrick would forget and everything would turn out just fine.
The good mood lasted until he saw Warrick with his head under the hood of his truck. A truck that was halfway out the parking lot and totally dead. The man had his coat thrown over the open door, his shirt folded up over his elbows and the sound of irritated grunts were enough for Nick to want to slip into his own truck and drive away. Feigning he never noticed his bud's predicament. He'd told Warrick for an entire month that he needed his generator fixed or he'd find himself with his battery dead. The question was really; confront Warrick and have the chance of his life to gloat or drive away and stick his head in the sand? Sometimes he really hated himself for that dependable streak the wouldn't leave him alone. He really had no chance to bail out, so instead he walked over and stopped by the man's side.
“What I tell you?”
Warrick craned his head to shoot him a death glare. “Don't even start!”
Nick grinned. “I told you, over and over, man! Get it fixed or you'll be sitting with a dead battery and cursing yourself for not listening to me.”
Warrick unfolded himself and turned to face him. “Gloating doesn't suit you, bro!”
Nick raised his eyebrows, fighting the widening grin. “No?”
“You gonna help me out or not?” Warrick walked up to him, all green-eyed grace. Stopping just a few inches away from his toes, the eyes holding a peculiar teasing glint. “I already had Travis jump-start me once, man. Show some pity on a stranded man, will yah?”
“Not done gloating yet,” Nick replied, fighting the need to turn and run in the opposite direction, start his truck and ride out into the sunshine. He really had no idea what Warrick was up to, there was something entirely new lingering between them. His answer seemed just as unexpected on Warrick's part. The man wasn't acting like Nick had expected him to; no merciless taunting or even veiled disgust. He was his old self, leaning on strong arms against the hood, leering – all slick and suave despite his predicament. That misplaced, self-assured grin, the one that he really should forget with a battery stone-dead after approximately 15 feet after a jump-start.
Nick grinned. “Listening to advice isn't your strong point now is it?”
“C'mon, pal! I'm begging here.” He walked back to close the hood, casting the truck a dejected glance at its unwillingness to co-operate. “I was going to fix it, but with the doubles and all -.” Warrick's brow wrinkled up into a pleading smile. “I'm starved and I need to get off this lot.” Warrick moved in on him, swaggering towards him with the greens in narrow slits. He didn't stop until he was close enough to nudge Nick with his elbow. “I'll even throw in some breakfast if you just tow me outta here and to the shop.”
Nick smiled, having Warrick beg was no ordinary occurrence. “Still gloating.”
Warrick laughed. “Man, you're really getting off on this, ain't yah?”
“A golden moment.” Nick walked away to get the tow-line and help Warrick off the lot. He hadn't just heard Warrick say what he thought he had, now had he? Warrick hadn't mumbled that he'd show him how to really get off, had he?
He quickly drove to park his car in front of Warrick's. Rummaging around in his trunk until he found the rope, he shook his head; it seemed that today his mind interpreted everything Warrick said as a possible pick-up line. They'd always talked like that, nothing had changed, except he'd literally outed himself to his best bud. He really should have followed his instincts and high-tailed it out of here.
“You doing an inventory?” Warrick appeared at his side. “Or hiding incriminating evidence?”
Nick straightened his back and glared. “See, some of us actually take care of our trucks and don't need tow-lines on a regular basis.” He pushed his way past his bud.
“Admit it, couldn't find it, could you?”
Warrick was so close that Nick could feel his breath when he squatted behind his truck. It was just too much. Nick felt the sudden need to distance himself and extended the rope to Warrick. Impatiently. “Now big boy, lemme me see if you're at least capable of hooking us up.”
“You mean I have to kneel to get hooked up?” The greens were just as teasing as before, when Warrick straightened to walk to his truck. The voice dripping with that undertone that Nick had major problems identifying right now.
“Your choice , man.” Nick grinned.
“I wish,” Warrick grunted and bowed to find the hook. “Got it! Hand me the rope, baby.”
Nick sighed and walked over with the requested item. “Not like I didn't offer it before, bro.” It struck him that he was falling straight into a jargon full of double entendres. He was sure he blushed when he got down on his knees to help out. No way Warrick would get the tow-line in place from the angle he was trying. It needed to be inserted from behind. “You want me to lose you on a corner, man?”
“Hell, no!” Warrick gruffed and sank down by his side, shoulder to shoulder, thigh to thigh as he leaned in. Nick felt goose-bumps form from the proximity. What was this? What was the man up to? Fumbling with the latch of the hook he managed to accidentally close it with his finger between the metal grips. He groaned and rested his head on the metal of the grill, working to get his finger out.
“You hooked up, Nicky?” Warrick leaned in even closer while Nick wiggled his sore finger, watching the angry red welt with a pout.
“Aww, sweety. Want me to blow on the bad boo?” Warrick bowed his head to take a look.
“Want me to leave you stranded here, honey?” Nick swatted at the man, retreating to be able to stand up.
“Nope,” Warrick took the end of the rope from Nick. “Get your little finger and ass into the truck while I hook you to me. You know Delaney's joint, right?”
“I showed you the shop, Warrick!” Nick threw his arms to the sides, rolling his eyes before he turned to get into his car. “And hook us up right, man! I'm not coming back for you.”
“We'll practically be joined by the hips.”
Nick couldn't help but laugh.
Warrick was grinning all the way to the shop, he felt he had gotten a fair enough number of hints in. Not that Nick seemed to connect the dots yet, but when Nick didn't want to see things, he simply closed his mind. At least he had offered his help. Maybe he wasn't scared stiff after all. Bad pun, Warrick thought as he switched on the left turn signal to get to the fenced yard. He knew he'd have to take it slow with Nick, question was if he'd be able to. He wanted to know, have the cards on table and he'd not come out of this sane if it took another couple of years. The tricky part was keeping the friendship while exploring the possibilities. At least Nick hadn't ran off scared at his flirting, he might have looked a little confused but that happened every time Nick was subjected to someone indicating they wanted to get into his pants.
He parked behind Nick's truck and slid out. Nick was already on his knees, getting the tow-line unhooked. Now looking at your co-workers fine ass was not what he should be doing right now, he should be on his way in and describe the problem. Which was exactly what Nick had pointed out as late as last week. The gloating would never end.
“Stick around will you?” He spoke in Nick's direction. “Just in case they won't be able to fix it right away.”
“They won't,” Nick replied, rolling the rope up.
“You're just wishing that for gloating purposes.” Warrick leered.
“Wanna bet?” Nick bestowed him the characteristic cheeky grin and raised his eyebrows mockingly. “I called Dennis and told him the symptoms. He happens to agree completely with my prelim COD. You'll probably have the truck back at end of business today. He'll have his son drop it off at my place on the drive home. I'll come pick you up before we have to clock in tonight. Just toss in the keys; I'll take you home and you can thank me on your bended knees later.”
“Whoa! You settled all that with a call? Wanna marry me?” Warrick knew full well that Nick would go out of his way to help, though sometimes it still baffled him to what extent his bud helped people out.
“Shut up,” Nick groaned. “Get your lazy ass over with the keys. I'm starving here!”
It took him less than a minute to hand over the keys and get a confirmation that Nick was right about the time the reparations would take. Another point for Nicky to cash in. Only this time Warrick wished he would; the thought of Nick ordering him to get down on his knees and -. He shook his head on his way over to Nick's car, trying to will the erection away. It just wasn't time for that not yet. This time he'd play his cards right, this time was too important to make a mess of it all and end up licking his wounds at a bar, all alone.
Nick smiled mockingly at him through the windshield and goddamn it, Warrick wanted nothing more than kiss that fucking smile off Nick's face.
“So?” Nick's eyebrows curved with amusement when Warrick climbed into the passenger seat. “What's the verdict?”
Warrick leaned back in the seat, inkling himself to sit with his back leaned up partly against the door. “' Ol' Orleans, now!”
“Huh?”
“I'm cashing in my bet, Nicky. You're just gonna have to drive. It's on Provo, off Parque and the meat's fine. My treat, man.”
Nick looked at him from under the sinfully long lashes. “Never been there, how come you never told me before? 'Bout the meat I mean.” He rolled out from the asphalted yard and took a right.
“ I am now, just shut up and drive, baby.”
Nick rolled his eyes at him.
Warrick had him park on a dusty lot outside a Spanish Hacienda with sprinklers full blast on the green lawn surrounded by palms. The morning sun made the drops glitter in the air. But Warrick dragged him on relentlessly. Descending a couple of steps at the side of the mansion-like building, stopping at a door with a modest sign. Warrick rang a bell and a man approximately their age open the door a and his face brightened up in a huge smile after a beat.
”Warrick Brown, all and mighty. Wher'ya been, man? Thought you'd fallen off the grid!” He opened the door to let them in.
“Yo, Rube! Some of us have to do actual work to survive, you know.” Warrick boxed the man's arm amicably. “This here's my main man, Nick.”
“Nick?” The man asked and tried to keep his face in order. “You dawg!” He grinned in Warrick's direction before he turned to Nick and offered his hand.
Nick shook it, smiling at the man with a 'pleased to meet you'.
The descended more stairs; white washed walls with dark-blue curtains draped over the ceiling as some kind of heaven that finally led into a darker expanse, with small booths with chairs and tables.
Warrick chose a booth against the wall, out of view from the rest of the patrons. Which were few and far between at this early hour. He leaned in to say something to Rube in a low voice, low enough to be muffled by the blues playing at the end of the room. Sultry tones, melancholic and filled with sexual tension washed over them like honeyed rain. The light was dim and had an amber tone, soothing out all corners and adding to the atmosphere of seduction.
Nick seated himself at the edge of the bench that ran around along the stucco walls around the table. Right now he had no idea what this all was about but it certainly wasn't their usual type of joint. He didn't feel like picking up the jabbing and teasing to get back to their usual routine; something was definitely different and he wished he knew what Warrick was up to..
Warrick eased himself to sit by his side, making Nick move over to sit in a ninety degree angle to him. Then Warrick's knee came to rest up against his own and the man looked at him, long and hard. With a smile lurking in the eyes. And Nick realized he was down-right nervous.
It seemed like the gaze was divesting Nick totally and he felt the flush heat up his face.
“You come here a lot?” The moment the standard line popped out of him, Nick felt like sliding in under the table. “Sure seem to know you around here.”
Warrick ever diverted his gaze off him when he spoke. “Me and Rube go back a long time. I used to play here sometimes, when it was all new and I was still in collage. Rube graduated a year before me.”
Nick dared a look at the man; it sounded like an explanation he'd never asked for. A waiter appeared with two foaming beers.
“Private club?” He inquired when the young man walked away, the silver tray gleaming in the soft light.
“Not really, Rube's dad made it big in gold and this is kind of a hobby for him. Rube will inherit enough of bonds and stock to let him do whatever he wants.”
“What a catch, huh?” Nick smiled in Warrick's direction.
“Not my type,” Warrick crooned, taking a swag of his beer. “I like mine Texan and sweet.”
Nick coughed into his beer as two plates were placed in front of them.
“You do know Texas has the best beef, dont'cha?” Warrick chuckled. “There's a tenderness to that meat that is irresistible. It kind of melts in your mouth, all lean and tasty. It's just perfect for my taste.”
Nick had to gather his jaw off the floor. “Rick-.”
“Dig in man,” Warrick prodded. “You can work it off later.”
Nick decided it was the best way to avoid saying something that he'd probably not even live to regret.
Warrick kept up the light teasing all through the meal. Just waiting for Nick to ask what the fuck he was up to. The question never comes and Warrick got the sick feeling this was all spiraling out of control. Nick seemed too subdued. Almost on the defense and he knew that Nick was able to hide everything if he really wanted. For a man with a bleeding heart on his sleeve he was a master at concealment. Nick's eyes were investigative when they occasionally landed on his own.
And Warrick felt the hope vanish.
“You good to go Nick?” He finally asked, feeling worn out and sad. “I'll just go pay up and we'll be off.”
“You'll pay? This a fricken date or something?” Nick spoke. “You can lay off the show, Rick. I get it. I'm not going to come on to you, you don't have keep whacking me over the head with it. Haven't come on to you before, have I? You can quit mocking me, told you I get it. And I'm sorry. I never intended for you to know. I'll see to it that we're not paired up anymore. I'll get out of your hair and lea-.”
Warrick reached out and grabbed the babbling man's neck to pull him closer. Big eyes stared back at him and he kissed the half-open lips chastely. “You don't get anything, do you? You're so fucking stupid at times, Nicky.”
He felt the tension in Nick's body lessen a bit and he took the opportunity to press his lips softly to Nick's and wait until the man drew in air and relaxed before he kissed him full on. And after a beat, Nick replied. The tip of his tongue slid in between Warrick's and he didn't mind that their noses collided when Nick moved his hand up to grab his shirt-collar and melt into the kiss.
Warrick's hand trembled slightly when he palmed the strong jaw. Sensing the slight stubble on Nick's chin tickle his skin. He had to pull away and look at Nick. Dark eyes met his squarely, insecurity gone and pupils blown.
“Jesus man,” was all Warrick got out before Nick sucked in his lower lips between his own and then his mouth was being devoured with a moist warmth and need that had all his synapses collide and send his heart beat drumming in his ears.
They fumbled, they knocked their noses together, their knees hit different parts of each other. There was nothing technically advanced in their kisses but damned if it wasn't fucking perfect all the same.
“Nicky, you moron! It took you about two hours to realize you were on a date?” Warrick crooned against the soft skin on Nick's neck.
“We better get outta here, Rick. Man, why didn't you say something?” Nick leaned back, creating a small distance between them.
“Me? I've been throwing hints all over the place. I'm surprised you didn't drown in them. You call yourself a CSI level three and can't pick up on a come-on even if it slams into you?”
“Don't talk like that!” Nick groaned. “You've got me, don't have me cause an accident with your whacked up allegories and metaphors!” He rose, dragging Warrick along and froze in his place with eyes widening when he spotted the bill on the table.
“Dude, that's it, I'm not setting my foot here again. Someone walked right up while I was groping you and I didn't even notice?”
Warrick laughed deep in his throat. “Got you all distracted, did I? Poor baby, all flushed and bothered from a little public display of affection? Next time I'll do you on the Strip.”
“You're all talk, Rick. Get your ass in gear instead and stop promising and just do me already! And you're so paying, just coz' you suck at dating, man. Watch how it's done when I take you out Sunday.”
Warrick grinned and paid up, keeping a firm grip on the back of Nick's neck. “Gimme the keys to the truck, bro!”
“What? Why? Would'ya let go already, people are watching!” Nick pouted and slid out of his grip, hurrying towards the exit. Face still flushed.
“Coz' unless you want me all over you while you drive you better hand them over.” Warrick reached to pry the keys out of Nick's hand as they walked up the stairs.
Nick threw a glance over his shoulder at him. “Ah the romance,” he mocked when he opened the door. “At what part do your dates usually ditch you?”
Warrick re-attached his hand around the nape of Nick's neck and steered him to the car.
Nick was not exactly sure how they had ended up at his place after all. All he knew was that this so wasn't going according to plan. Or maybe it was just that his body had other plans than his mind? He was supposed to not totally let his guard down, not like this. Still he laughed when they almost crashed through the door and Warrick reached for him from behind when he got tangled up in the doormat and all but fell on his face. But Warrick had him, wasn't letting him fall. And his man huffed and mocked him for being a klutz while that same man held him flush to the pecs dancing on the chiseled chest, heart beating a little faster, while fingers peeled off his shirt and he toed of his shoes, still laughing. They were barely inside when, in that same fluid motion of events, he was pinned to the wall and a hard, muscular body was pressed to his while he peeled off the man's shirt. His hands roamed to the broad back, sucking in air when he felt the muscles under the hot skin.
“You sure about this, Rick?” He asked between nips to the man's neck and licking at the earlobe. Warrick shuddered and leaned his stubbly chin on Nick's temple, breath hitching for a moment. “It's gonna change things, y'know.”
The large, calloused hands on his skin lost their urgency and arms twined around him, one hand on the nape of his neck and lips close to his ear. He missed the hands already and regretted ever speaking. His fingers spreading wide over the expanse of Warrick's back, pulling him closer.
“Yeah, baby, we're finally making it right. I've wanted you for a long while, Nicky. If I'da known, Nick - shit, we've thrown away so much time already. If I knew when you bunked with me after that psycho in your attic, I could have done what I wanted to do. Creep up in bed with you and just hold you when you freaked out on me.”
“Sorry 'bout that man, didn't mean to spook you like I did.” Nick blushed and twined his arms harder around Warrick's middle.
“You didn't spook me baby. It was just that every time you jumped I wanted to kill the bastard. Then, when you were out even before your apartment was completely done I though I had scared you off. I really tried not to get in your space man, it was just that – shit man, I watched you fall out of a second story window. And then the fucking dipshit came after you all over. Can't blame a man for going a little crazy, bro.”
“Another guilt-trip over that, honey, and I swear I will -”
Lips crushed to his, tongue sliding easily inside and jumbling up every thought process in his mind.
Warrick's hand was in his hair when they came up for air, cupping the back of his head. “I know what I want Nick, I've wanted it for a long time. What about you? We'll take it slow enough for you and your slow uptake to finally get a clue.” Warrick rubbed his nose to Nick's and Nick slapped the tensed butt at his reach.
“You're an ass, you know that, dont'cha. And just for that I'm sticking to my five dates before I drag you to bed.”
Warrick laughed and moved to nuzzle at his ear and Nick knew they'd probably be in bed, or on the couch or even doing it right here in approximately ten minutes.
“M'good with that, baby,” Warrick mumbled.
“Rick,” Nick keened and pulled Warrick's hips to his when the man nipped his way down his neck. “Your dating skills are about as good as you lies, man. Bet you a twenty that I'll have you screaming for more in ten.” He murmured the words to the hot skin at the joint of Warrick's neck and shoulder, pressing his fingers hard to the hot flesh on the small of his man's back.
“You're a fucking tease, Stokes!” Warrick chuckled deep in his throat when he slowly slid down to his knees
Nick threw his head back to rest against the wall and closed his eyes.
Author: *bright
Rating: Not quite NC-17 but definitely PG-13.
Spoilers: Up to season 3
Pairing: Nick/Warrick
Category: Prompt “First Date” at
___nick_warrickSummary: There are romantic first dates and then there are Nick 'n Rick dates.
Words: 12.408
Author's Note: Un-beta’d. Too big for one post so I had to cut it at the middle. Damn!
Disclaimer: Me own zip and nada, ‘cept an over active imagination.
Sara was blocking his path out the door and Warrick cursed silently. He'd been rattled by Nick's strong reaction, both by the erection he had felt pressed up to him and the subsequent bolt out of the room. He remembered Grissom talking about males getting erections while hanged and he wondered if Nick's reaction really wasn't what he'd hoped for, but instead down-right fear?
“Warrick?” Sara inquired again. “We really need to get samples of the vic's clothes to Greg and Hodges. Greg's already backlogged, if we don't get our samples in queue, we might have to wait days.”
“Yeah, yeah,” he said, his eyes still trained on the empty corridor where Nick had disappeared. They still had an hour left on shift, would he really take off and go home? Naw, not Nick, the dependable one would stay on shift even if the roof came down. But what the fuck had happened? He'd challenged Nick and Nick had answered, really surprising him with the swiftness. It wasn't out of malice he had pressed him up the wall, it was instinct. The hardness of the body he'd been wanting flush to his own for a long time had been right there at his reach, and there was no denying that he stayed pressed up to Nick for longer than necessary. When he'd felt the ridge pressed to his butt he'd literally had to fight himself not to turn and nestle his leg in between Nick's and press even harder. Instinct again? When it came to Nick it seemed to take over and his logical side was left behind, asking what the fuck just happened?
“Warrick, you gonna help out of what?”
He hesitated, torn by duty and need to find his bud and offer some explanation. But what was there to say? Uh, bro, I kinda like you in more ways than one?
“Warrick, what's up with the two of you? Can't decide on who won the bet?” Sara looked sternly at him, like demanding an explanation that he didn't have. He'd have to swing by Nick's place later and pry himself inside, whatever it took. Because they were going to be fine, there was no other option. He wouldn't lose Nick's friendship, not now, not ever.
“We're fine,” Warrick responded curtly. “What do you need me to do?”
Nick sighed with relief when he stepped into the locker room. It was empty, just like he'd calculated. It was fifteen minutes past ending of shift and Warrick would be on his way home by now, and with the weekend off that the man had before him it would hopefully be enough to have him forget the entire incident. At least that was what Nick was hoping for. Because he had not come up with a plausible excuse, and he'd gone through everything he knew about male physiology, and then some. Going through it had just managed to send him back to the layout room and Warrick pressed to him. Exactly what had landed him in trouble to begin with.
He changed into his civil clothes, trying not to think about the man and get into another predicament of having to drive how in too tight pants. All he needed now was to get home, get a cold shower and crash on his couch in front of the TV and if that didn't work, he was sure he had some forensic journal to dig into and really get out of this lusting mood. Tomorrow he'd hit the gym and work out. Use some old-fashioned sublimation to get over this ridiculous state. He grinned when he walked out, sure that his plans would work out. Warrick would forget and everything would turn out just fine.
The good mood lasted until he saw Warrick with his head under the hood of his truck. A truck that was halfway out the parking lot and totally dead. The man had his coat thrown over the open door, his shirt folded up over his elbows and the sound of irritated grunts were enough for Nick to want to slip into his own truck and drive away. Feigning he never noticed his bud's predicament. He'd told Warrick for an entire month that he needed his generator fixed or he'd find himself with his battery dead. The question was really; confront Warrick and have the chance of his life to gloat or drive away and stick his head in the sand? Sometimes he really hated himself for that dependable streak the wouldn't leave him alone. He really had no chance to bail out, so instead he walked over and stopped by the man's side.
“What I tell you?”
Warrick craned his head to shoot him a death glare. “Don't even start!”
Nick grinned. “I told you, over and over, man! Get it fixed or you'll be sitting with a dead battery and cursing yourself for not listening to me.”
Warrick unfolded himself and turned to face him. “Gloating doesn't suit you, bro!”
Nick raised his eyebrows, fighting the widening grin. “No?”
“You gonna help me out or not?” Warrick walked up to him, all green-eyed grace. Stopping just a few inches away from his toes, the eyes holding a peculiar teasing glint. “I already had Travis jump-start me once, man. Show some pity on a stranded man, will yah?”
“Not done gloating yet,” Nick replied, fighting the need to turn and run in the opposite direction, start his truck and ride out into the sunshine. He really had no idea what Warrick was up to, there was something entirely new lingering between them. His answer seemed just as unexpected on Warrick's part. The man wasn't acting like Nick had expected him to; no merciless taunting or even veiled disgust. He was his old self, leaning on strong arms against the hood, leering – all slick and suave despite his predicament. That misplaced, self-assured grin, the one that he really should forget with a battery stone-dead after approximately 15 feet after a jump-start.
Nick grinned. “Listening to advice isn't your strong point now is it?”
“C'mon, pal! I'm begging here.” He walked back to close the hood, casting the truck a dejected glance at its unwillingness to co-operate. “I was going to fix it, but with the doubles and all -.” Warrick's brow wrinkled up into a pleading smile. “I'm starved and I need to get off this lot.” Warrick moved in on him, swaggering towards him with the greens in narrow slits. He didn't stop until he was close enough to nudge Nick with his elbow. “I'll even throw in some breakfast if you just tow me outta here and to the shop.”
Nick smiled, having Warrick beg was no ordinary occurrence. “Still gloating.”
Warrick laughed. “Man, you're really getting off on this, ain't yah?”
“A golden moment.” Nick walked away to get the tow-line and help Warrick off the lot. He hadn't just heard Warrick say what he thought he had, now had he? Warrick hadn't mumbled that he'd show him how to really get off, had he?
He quickly drove to park his car in front of Warrick's. Rummaging around in his trunk until he found the rope, he shook his head; it seemed that today his mind interpreted everything Warrick said as a possible pick-up line. They'd always talked like that, nothing had changed, except he'd literally outed himself to his best bud. He really should have followed his instincts and high-tailed it out of here.
“You doing an inventory?” Warrick appeared at his side. “Or hiding incriminating evidence?”
Nick straightened his back and glared. “See, some of us actually take care of our trucks and don't need tow-lines on a regular basis.” He pushed his way past his bud.
“Admit it, couldn't find it, could you?”
Warrick was so close that Nick could feel his breath when he squatted behind his truck. It was just too much. Nick felt the sudden need to distance himself and extended the rope to Warrick. Impatiently. “Now big boy, lemme me see if you're at least capable of hooking us up.”
“You mean I have to kneel to get hooked up?” The greens were just as teasing as before, when Warrick straightened to walk to his truck. The voice dripping with that undertone that Nick had major problems identifying right now.
“Your choice , man.” Nick grinned.
“I wish,” Warrick grunted and bowed to find the hook. “Got it! Hand me the rope, baby.”
Nick sighed and walked over with the requested item. “Not like I didn't offer it before, bro.” It struck him that he was falling straight into a jargon full of double entendres. He was sure he blushed when he got down on his knees to help out. No way Warrick would get the tow-line in place from the angle he was trying. It needed to be inserted from behind. “You want me to lose you on a corner, man?”
“Hell, no!” Warrick gruffed and sank down by his side, shoulder to shoulder, thigh to thigh as he leaned in. Nick felt goose-bumps form from the proximity. What was this? What was the man up to? Fumbling with the latch of the hook he managed to accidentally close it with his finger between the metal grips. He groaned and rested his head on the metal of the grill, working to get his finger out.
“You hooked up, Nicky?” Warrick leaned in even closer while Nick wiggled his sore finger, watching the angry red welt with a pout.
“Aww, sweety. Want me to blow on the bad boo?” Warrick bowed his head to take a look.
“Want me to leave you stranded here, honey?” Nick swatted at the man, retreating to be able to stand up.
“Nope,” Warrick took the end of the rope from Nick. “Get your little finger and ass into the truck while I hook you to me. You know Delaney's joint, right?”
“I showed you the shop, Warrick!” Nick threw his arms to the sides, rolling his eyes before he turned to get into his car. “And hook us up right, man! I'm not coming back for you.”
“We'll practically be joined by the hips.”
Nick couldn't help but laugh.
Warrick was grinning all the way to the shop, he felt he had gotten a fair enough number of hints in. Not that Nick seemed to connect the dots yet, but when Nick didn't want to see things, he simply closed his mind. At least he had offered his help. Maybe he wasn't scared stiff after all. Bad pun, Warrick thought as he switched on the left turn signal to get to the fenced yard. He knew he'd have to take it slow with Nick, question was if he'd be able to. He wanted to know, have the cards on table and he'd not come out of this sane if it took another couple of years. The tricky part was keeping the friendship while exploring the possibilities. At least Nick hadn't ran off scared at his flirting, he might have looked a little confused but that happened every time Nick was subjected to someone indicating they wanted to get into his pants.
He parked behind Nick's truck and slid out. Nick was already on his knees, getting the tow-line unhooked. Now looking at your co-workers fine ass was not what he should be doing right now, he should be on his way in and describe the problem. Which was exactly what Nick had pointed out as late as last week. The gloating would never end.
“Stick around will you?” He spoke in Nick's direction. “Just in case they won't be able to fix it right away.”
“They won't,” Nick replied, rolling the rope up.
“You're just wishing that for gloating purposes.” Warrick leered.
“Wanna bet?” Nick bestowed him the characteristic cheeky grin and raised his eyebrows mockingly. “I called Dennis and told him the symptoms. He happens to agree completely with my prelim COD. You'll probably have the truck back at end of business today. He'll have his son drop it off at my place on the drive home. I'll come pick you up before we have to clock in tonight. Just toss in the keys; I'll take you home and you can thank me on your bended knees later.”
“Whoa! You settled all that with a call? Wanna marry me?” Warrick knew full well that Nick would go out of his way to help, though sometimes it still baffled him to what extent his bud helped people out.
“Shut up,” Nick groaned. “Get your lazy ass over with the keys. I'm starving here!”
It took him less than a minute to hand over the keys and get a confirmation that Nick was right about the time the reparations would take. Another point for Nicky to cash in. Only this time Warrick wished he would; the thought of Nick ordering him to get down on his knees and -. He shook his head on his way over to Nick's car, trying to will the erection away. It just wasn't time for that not yet. This time he'd play his cards right, this time was too important to make a mess of it all and end up licking his wounds at a bar, all alone.
Nick smiled mockingly at him through the windshield and goddamn it, Warrick wanted nothing more than kiss that fucking smile off Nick's face.
“So?” Nick's eyebrows curved with amusement when Warrick climbed into the passenger seat. “What's the verdict?”
Warrick leaned back in the seat, inkling himself to sit with his back leaned up partly against the door. “' Ol' Orleans, now!”
“Huh?”
“I'm cashing in my bet, Nicky. You're just gonna have to drive. It's on Provo, off Parque and the meat's fine. My treat, man.”
Nick looked at him from under the sinfully long lashes. “Never been there, how come you never told me before? 'Bout the meat I mean.” He rolled out from the asphalted yard and took a right.
“ I am now, just shut up and drive, baby.”
Nick rolled his eyes at him.
Warrick had him park on a dusty lot outside a Spanish Hacienda with sprinklers full blast on the green lawn surrounded by palms. The morning sun made the drops glitter in the air. But Warrick dragged him on relentlessly. Descending a couple of steps at the side of the mansion-like building, stopping at a door with a modest sign. Warrick rang a bell and a man approximately their age open the door a and his face brightened up in a huge smile after a beat.
”Warrick Brown, all and mighty. Wher'ya been, man? Thought you'd fallen off the grid!” He opened the door to let them in.
“Yo, Rube! Some of us have to do actual work to survive, you know.” Warrick boxed the man's arm amicably. “This here's my main man, Nick.”
“Nick?” The man asked and tried to keep his face in order. “You dawg!” He grinned in Warrick's direction before he turned to Nick and offered his hand.
Nick shook it, smiling at the man with a 'pleased to meet you'.
The descended more stairs; white washed walls with dark-blue curtains draped over the ceiling as some kind of heaven that finally led into a darker expanse, with small booths with chairs and tables.
Warrick chose a booth against the wall, out of view from the rest of the patrons. Which were few and far between at this early hour. He leaned in to say something to Rube in a low voice, low enough to be muffled by the blues playing at the end of the room. Sultry tones, melancholic and filled with sexual tension washed over them like honeyed rain. The light was dim and had an amber tone, soothing out all corners and adding to the atmosphere of seduction.
Nick seated himself at the edge of the bench that ran around along the stucco walls around the table. Right now he had no idea what this all was about but it certainly wasn't their usual type of joint. He didn't feel like picking up the jabbing and teasing to get back to their usual routine; something was definitely different and he wished he knew what Warrick was up to..
Warrick eased himself to sit by his side, making Nick move over to sit in a ninety degree angle to him. Then Warrick's knee came to rest up against his own and the man looked at him, long and hard. With a smile lurking in the eyes. And Nick realized he was down-right nervous.
It seemed like the gaze was divesting Nick totally and he felt the flush heat up his face.
“You come here a lot?” The moment the standard line popped out of him, Nick felt like sliding in under the table. “Sure seem to know you around here.”
Warrick ever diverted his gaze off him when he spoke. “Me and Rube go back a long time. I used to play here sometimes, when it was all new and I was still in collage. Rube graduated a year before me.”
Nick dared a look at the man; it sounded like an explanation he'd never asked for. A waiter appeared with two foaming beers.
“Private club?” He inquired when the young man walked away, the silver tray gleaming in the soft light.
“Not really, Rube's dad made it big in gold and this is kind of a hobby for him. Rube will inherit enough of bonds and stock to let him do whatever he wants.”
“What a catch, huh?” Nick smiled in Warrick's direction.
“Not my type,” Warrick crooned, taking a swag of his beer. “I like mine Texan and sweet.”
Nick coughed into his beer as two plates were placed in front of them.
“You do know Texas has the best beef, dont'cha?” Warrick chuckled. “There's a tenderness to that meat that is irresistible. It kind of melts in your mouth, all lean and tasty. It's just perfect for my taste.”
Nick had to gather his jaw off the floor. “Rick-.”
“Dig in man,” Warrick prodded. “You can work it off later.”
Nick decided it was the best way to avoid saying something that he'd probably not even live to regret.
Warrick kept up the light teasing all through the meal. Just waiting for Nick to ask what the fuck he was up to. The question never comes and Warrick got the sick feeling this was all spiraling out of control. Nick seemed too subdued. Almost on the defense and he knew that Nick was able to hide everything if he really wanted. For a man with a bleeding heart on his sleeve he was a master at concealment. Nick's eyes were investigative when they occasionally landed on his own.
And Warrick felt the hope vanish.
“You good to go Nick?” He finally asked, feeling worn out and sad. “I'll just go pay up and we'll be off.”
“You'll pay? This a fricken date or something?” Nick spoke. “You can lay off the show, Rick. I get it. I'm not going to come on to you, you don't have keep whacking me over the head with it. Haven't come on to you before, have I? You can quit mocking me, told you I get it. And I'm sorry. I never intended for you to know. I'll see to it that we're not paired up anymore. I'll get out of your hair and lea-.”
Warrick reached out and grabbed the babbling man's neck to pull him closer. Big eyes stared back at him and he kissed the half-open lips chastely. “You don't get anything, do you? You're so fucking stupid at times, Nicky.”
He felt the tension in Nick's body lessen a bit and he took the opportunity to press his lips softly to Nick's and wait until the man drew in air and relaxed before he kissed him full on. And after a beat, Nick replied. The tip of his tongue slid in between Warrick's and he didn't mind that their noses collided when Nick moved his hand up to grab his shirt-collar and melt into the kiss.
Warrick's hand trembled slightly when he palmed the strong jaw. Sensing the slight stubble on Nick's chin tickle his skin. He had to pull away and look at Nick. Dark eyes met his squarely, insecurity gone and pupils blown.
“Jesus man,” was all Warrick got out before Nick sucked in his lower lips between his own and then his mouth was being devoured with a moist warmth and need that had all his synapses collide and send his heart beat drumming in his ears.
They fumbled, they knocked their noses together, their knees hit different parts of each other. There was nothing technically advanced in their kisses but damned if it wasn't fucking perfect all the same.
“Nicky, you moron! It took you about two hours to realize you were on a date?” Warrick crooned against the soft skin on Nick's neck.
“We better get outta here, Rick. Man, why didn't you say something?” Nick leaned back, creating a small distance between them.
“Me? I've been throwing hints all over the place. I'm surprised you didn't drown in them. You call yourself a CSI level three and can't pick up on a come-on even if it slams into you?”
“Don't talk like that!” Nick groaned. “You've got me, don't have me cause an accident with your whacked up allegories and metaphors!” He rose, dragging Warrick along and froze in his place with eyes widening when he spotted the bill on the table.
“Dude, that's it, I'm not setting my foot here again. Someone walked right up while I was groping you and I didn't even notice?”
Warrick laughed deep in his throat. “Got you all distracted, did I? Poor baby, all flushed and bothered from a little public display of affection? Next time I'll do you on the Strip.”
“You're all talk, Rick. Get your ass in gear instead and stop promising and just do me already! And you're so paying, just coz' you suck at dating, man. Watch how it's done when I take you out Sunday.”
Warrick grinned and paid up, keeping a firm grip on the back of Nick's neck. “Gimme the keys to the truck, bro!”
“What? Why? Would'ya let go already, people are watching!” Nick pouted and slid out of his grip, hurrying towards the exit. Face still flushed.
“Coz' unless you want me all over you while you drive you better hand them over.” Warrick reached to pry the keys out of Nick's hand as they walked up the stairs.
Nick threw a glance over his shoulder at him. “Ah the romance,” he mocked when he opened the door. “At what part do your dates usually ditch you?”
Warrick re-attached his hand around the nape of Nick's neck and steered him to the car.
Nick was not exactly sure how they had ended up at his place after all. All he knew was that this so wasn't going according to plan. Or maybe it was just that his body had other plans than his mind? He was supposed to not totally let his guard down, not like this. Still he laughed when they almost crashed through the door and Warrick reached for him from behind when he got tangled up in the doormat and all but fell on his face. But Warrick had him, wasn't letting him fall. And his man huffed and mocked him for being a klutz while that same man held him flush to the pecs dancing on the chiseled chest, heart beating a little faster, while fingers peeled off his shirt and he toed of his shoes, still laughing. They were barely inside when, in that same fluid motion of events, he was pinned to the wall and a hard, muscular body was pressed to his while he peeled off the man's shirt. His hands roamed to the broad back, sucking in air when he felt the muscles under the hot skin.
“You sure about this, Rick?” He asked between nips to the man's neck and licking at the earlobe. Warrick shuddered and leaned his stubbly chin on Nick's temple, breath hitching for a moment. “It's gonna change things, y'know.”
The large, calloused hands on his skin lost their urgency and arms twined around him, one hand on the nape of his neck and lips close to his ear. He missed the hands already and regretted ever speaking. His fingers spreading wide over the expanse of Warrick's back, pulling him closer.
“Yeah, baby, we're finally making it right. I've wanted you for a long while, Nicky. If I'da known, Nick - shit, we've thrown away so much time already. If I knew when you bunked with me after that psycho in your attic, I could have done what I wanted to do. Creep up in bed with you and just hold you when you freaked out on me.”
“Sorry 'bout that man, didn't mean to spook you like I did.” Nick blushed and twined his arms harder around Warrick's middle.
“You didn't spook me baby. It was just that every time you jumped I wanted to kill the bastard. Then, when you were out even before your apartment was completely done I though I had scared you off. I really tried not to get in your space man, it was just that – shit man, I watched you fall out of a second story window. And then the fucking dipshit came after you all over. Can't blame a man for going a little crazy, bro.”
“Another guilt-trip over that, honey, and I swear I will -”
Lips crushed to his, tongue sliding easily inside and jumbling up every thought process in his mind.
Warrick's hand was in his hair when they came up for air, cupping the back of his head. “I know what I want Nick, I've wanted it for a long time. What about you? We'll take it slow enough for you and your slow uptake to finally get a clue.” Warrick rubbed his nose to Nick's and Nick slapped the tensed butt at his reach.
“You're an ass, you know that, dont'cha. And just for that I'm sticking to my five dates before I drag you to bed.”
Warrick laughed and moved to nuzzle at his ear and Nick knew they'd probably be in bed, or on the couch or even doing it right here in approximately ten minutes.
“M'good with that, baby,” Warrick mumbled.
“Rick,” Nick keened and pulled Warrick's hips to his when the man nipped his way down his neck. “Your dating skills are about as good as you lies, man. Bet you a twenty that I'll have you screaming for more in ten.” He murmured the words to the hot skin at the joint of Warrick's neck and shoulder, pressing his fingers hard to the hot flesh on the small of his man's back.
“You're a fucking tease, Stokes!” Warrick chuckled deep in his throat when he slowly slid down to his knees
Nick threw his head back to rest against the wall and closed his eyes.