He made a noise in his throat when his head was moved so that it was in Gabe's lap, and he didn't resist. He kept the pillow over his face for a few more seconds before allowing it to slide off so he could peer up at Gabe above him. Was his jawline always so strong and handsome? It had to be the angle. He couldn't remember looking up quite at this angle, but damn that jaw was amazing.
"Did you tell your family that I was a white guy?" Because as nice as he might sound, he still might not be wanted in such a capacity. Like as Gabriel's mate. "I mean, it seems like we crushed on each other the moment we laid eyes on each other." Though it was news to him that Gabe's twin asked after how he was doing. "Does... she ask about me by name?"
He reached up to grasp Gabe's cheeks, stroking with his thumbs. "You don't actually intend on taking me to L.A, do you?"
"They've seen how you look- remember the call I took in our room?" He'd walked by at least before he went somewhere a little more private. Before things locked down that much more once testing had buckled down on them a bit harder anyway. "She does ask about you by name, yeah," even if she only learned it once she listened to Gabriel talk about his roommate to the extent that he wouldn't be going anywhere.
She'd gotten an idea how things could be during all of this.
His head tilted, all the better to lean against those hands. "Only if you wanted to come with me for a visit."
"I remember, but when I looked you were leaving the room," he pointed out. He hadn't realized that he had been seen passing by on his way to his bed to grab some items. His thumbs continued to stroke Gabe's cheeks affectionately. So they knew he was painfully white. It shouldn't feel troubling, but Gabe was so important to him and he knew that Latino families tended to be large and very dedicated to the well-being of each other. "I suppose I should call her by her full name, yeah?"
He hadn't been to L.A. before. The biggest city he had been to when he was young was New York and that had been quite the experience. He had liked the museum and all the action that seemed to happen there. Never a dull moment.
"I wouldn't mind knowing where you live and seeing that city." A small pause. "You could... come to Indiana with me at some point, if you wanted."
He shrugged a little but still, he'd been seen. Gabriel's family knew what Jack looked like, and clearly they didn't have a single issue with it. He still leaned in to that touch, gaze never leaving Jack's face when they were open. "Ariela will do fine there, yeah."
"I'd take you on a tour, show you some of the best local spots and all," Just a nice little personal tour, hang out, hit up the quieter places that did exist around and in LA. "Might enjoy some of the street food, too."
Thought about it for a moment, Gabriel nodding slowly, "Yeah, yeah. That could be really nice."
He still wasn't entirely convinced, since being a friend was one thing but an interracial couple could still be frowned upon. He would definitely be waiting with some trepidation when Gabe's family was told. His family he was less worried about because he knew them and figured he could guess their reactions. "Ariela..." he murmured, practicing the name as Gabe said it. "I can do that then."
He had to smile at the idea of getting a tour. He'd hit tour-worthy, huh? That was always a great sign. "How many dance clubs, bars and tall buildings will that be? Or do I get to see the beach?" He raised his eyebrows at street food notion. "I haven't had much street food before." You know, war and before that small town.
He could only offer a crooked smile. "I can show you our like... one grocery store, the bowling alley and the many parks." Then his smile faded. "Though, pa will probably put us both to work. Always something to do on the farm."
Two little angels when only one child had been expected, figured it was funny himself to name himself and his sister after archangels but hey. "Stuck by me through thick and thing while we were growing up. Can trust me when I say she say look intimidating, but if you don't let that spook you she's a softy with a sharp sense of humor." Reason to be afraid, and not be afraid at the same time?
He'd hit tour-worthy. "Just a handful- not that many dance clubs I care to hit up, but I know a lot of nice beach spots that don't get crowded by tourists." Handful of locals and all, and some signs were misleading, but there were places to get a spot of peaceful beach even there. "I have a lot to show you when it comes to street food- and food trucks." Had a few favorites he new were still around.
His forehead bumped a little against Jack's. "I like parks, be nice to get out in to any of those- and hit up the grocery store beforehand." Grab a few things to make a quick lunch of sandwiches or something. Couldn't help the snort. "Not surprising, but some farm work'll probably be fun compared to what we're doing here."
It did amuse him that the twins had been named after angels, but the names probably suited as much as his did to him. Though his naming scheme was rather different, based on an old family tradition that went back generations. He made a sound in his throat, having always heard that twins tended to be very close. "So she looks like you then. You have that same reputation, you know." Though one had to work to get Gabe to be a softy, given he was high ranked so had to be a hard ass.
Jack would prefer beaches to clubs anyway, but he figured at their age that it was expected they would do those anyway. He was curious to meet Gabe's friends as well as family, see the kinds of places he grew up. "So do I get to see the private beaches of L.A.? I hear there are some. And will your ma pull out baby photos if we visit?" His only did that when she thought that he and a boyfriend were serious about each other. "You know that I like to eat." So he was a-okay with being fed constantly.
He chuckled and smoothed a thumb over Gabe's cheek. "We have nice parks, and we'll have a barbecue if the weather is good. Not much to do activity wise, but we have a good time." It was a good place to go for jogs, dirt bike and hunt. "I'll show you how amazing the stars look on the barn roof."
"Just a whole foot or so shorter than me, and far longer hair." Which could be sort of funny to picture, but Ariela was damned athletic, a swimmer who decided to work with children rather than pursuing that as a career. Suited her though, really. The two of them made a hell of a team when they set their minds to a goal; little things for younger siblings growing up and all sorts of summer jobs.
Gabriel hummed, leaning down a little just so Jack could still keep a good hold of his face, still combing fingers through blond hair as his head rested there in his lap. "Can sneak on to a few, and also the ones that are actually public but it's not that widely known." Those were some of the nicer ones at times, really. "She might, and hell, you're going to be well fed if my dad has anything to say about it. Man loves to cook giant meals with even the slightest excuse," like him coming home with someone.
"Sounds good to me all the same," because sometimes there was nothing better when you've just had so much to do than just- having time to do nothing and exist after some hard work. No need for so much noise as much as he enjoyed that, too. "I look forward to it- and whatever else you might what to show me on that barn roof."
Well, to have a woman as tall as Gabriel was rare, but if she looked anything like him, he figured that she would be beautiful. He might not be interested in women, but he could certainly admire their forms when he felt the need. "She's not going to smother me to death in her hair, is she?" He wasn't prepared to face off against the both of them being stubborn at the same time while together. He had just learned how to start dealing with Gabe's massive bullheaded streak.
His fingers were still holding and stroking before he simply shifted them to grasp the back of Gabe's neck, resting there as he laced his fingers together. "Sounds like you already have it all planned out, and we don't even know if I'm going to be murdered for mating you yet." He sighed, though couldn't help be amused by the idea of being fed. "Does he? I suppose it's a good thing we can eat our fill and then some with how high our metabolisms are."
They were definitely going to have a barbecue. His pa had a massive traditional one and a dug out one that was amazing and a smoke house on the property. "What else do you think I'll show you on the barn roof?" He was playing at being obtuse. "Oh, well, I guess Ronnie the Rooster is sometimes up there, but he'll probably chase us. He's a jerk."
He hummed a little lowly- "Don't think that's something you have to worry about, no."
He relaxed like that, leaning over as he ruffled Jack's hair a bit before going back to that slow massage of his scalp. "You'll live, I'm sure. Doubt any of them want to leave me a widow this early by taking out my mate," still very easy to tease about that. Sure, his sister might give him a hard time but there'd be some delight laced throughout. Gotta bully the possible brother-in-law and all at first, no letting off easy. "Probably roast a whole pig if he can manage to get one in time."
Gabriel snorted a bit, "Sunrise, maybe." An eyebrow arched a little- "Well, guess we'll have to be very careful up on that roof."
"Well as long as my chances of dying are higher in the war than your family."
He shifted where he lay, thinking that he should sit up but enjoying the attention now that it wasn't with an undertone of need boiling in his blood. "I mean... if they don't know about the bonding bite, they might risk it and set you up with a strapping young man or woman more to their liking. Doesn't sound like your family from what you've told me." He expected a hard time, expected to be put through the third degree, but honestly, it couldn't be worse than boot camp. Cracker had been the nicest thing he'd been called there, and he'd be dumped out of his bunk more times than he cared to remember.
Yet, he perked and tilted his head like an interested dog at the mention of whole pig. That wasn't easy to do. "A whole pig? He has to do that over a spit. Does he have an outdoor barbecue?" Now there was something he could get behind. Jack loved to barbecue, and he liked to think he was damn good at it too.
"Sunrise is something I can make happen." He shrugged his shoulders helplessly. "Ronnie thinks I'm stealing his ladies all the time, so he's been chasing me for years."
He ruffled up Jack's hair with a low sound just within his throat. "They wouldn't do that, little bit barbaric if you ask me." There was little flick to Jack's nose as well, "I've also only told you a little about them, can't judge too harshly when I've only spoken a little about growing up." He honestly hadn't spoken a whole lot about them, just that he knew they always stood by him and would step in if they ever thought he needed it. "Never thought you'd care to hear much about them."
Apparently he was wrong- "Yeah, has a set-up in the backyard and everything. Even has a spit he can take with him on to the beach and all." Because roasting an entire pig on one of the beaches frequented by mostly locals was always a good time. "No one has ever done a better tasting spit roasted pig than him, and the left overs last for days- we even sometimes put the leftover pulled pork on pineapple pizza."
Gabriel chuckled, leaning down enough to press a kiss against Jack's forehead. "Too bad bringing home a boyfriend won't make it clear you're not interested in his ladies."
"I can hear how much they mean to you in your voice," he replied with a small shake of his head. Gabe was a very private man, and he respected that. It was part and parcel with their relationship. "Come on, you grew up in L.A. I'm sure you were leading a gang, fighting crime, and being a top-A student all at the same time. And I bet your twin was there kicking ass right along side you." Okay, he was grossly exaggerating, but he thought it was funny. "Why wouldn't I care to hear about them? They are important to you, just as my family is important to me."
Oh. My. God. Jack was listening raptly, mind racing because having a portable spit was an amazing idea. He even decided to sit up again this was so important to listen to, rubbing his chin with his thumb and forefinger. "That sounds amazing. Does he braise the pig? Spice it before, after or during the cooking process? Does he make his own sauce to go with it? I might need the recipe." Now he was just excited.
He laughed and gave Gabe's shoulder a playful shove. "Naw, Ronnie will just think you're more competition and chase you too. Farm fresh eggs come with a price."
He laughed softly, chin rested against the palm of his hand, watching Jack for a moment- "I played soccer, and was also part of the drama club- did theater, acted in a few plays in school," hell, his parents probably thought he was going to become an actor or something if he hadn't signed up for the military. "I also did some BMX on the side, Ari and I did a lot of biking together- and we may have gotten in to some dumb fights as kids." And some not so dumb fights, for various reasons.
"He does get spices and all in it before hoisting over the fire? Does rub it down with something, too, and while it's turning on the spit he does paint it with a sauce- the skin gets all nice- like you know what cracklins are, right?" The skin always went first once it was done and the rest was dug in to. "The meat stays nice and juicy and flavorful, well seasoned inside and out." His dad was proud of it.
Gabriel shoved back just the save, even if he caught Jack's collar and tugged him closer right after- "I don't think my grandfater kept a rooster- or at least I never saw it. The hens used to follow me around when I visited."
Somehow, none of those revelations were actually surprising. It sounded just like Gabe to participate in every one of those activities from what he had come to know of the man. "So, once the war is over, you'll leave the military and become an actor then? Pursue a life in the glitz and glamor, yeah?" Somehow that part didn't seem like Gabe who wasn't shy in attention but also simply said what was on his mind as well. "Well, siblings always get into dumb fights. That's why they are siblings."
This sounded great, too good to be true. People could say that they liked barbecuing, but there were some levels of it that could be considered elite and a whole pig was up there. "I know exactly what cracklins are," he said with enthusiasm. "Sounds like your dad is someone I will definitely have to meet up with. We can talk barbecue shop together." And maybe Jack would have to show off his skills here if there was opportunity.
With his collar caught, he couldn't resist the pull in, smile tugging the corner of his mouth. "So you're a ladies man and a gentleman's man? Ronnie is going to strut and squawk and chase you so much."
"Nah," Maybe once, but he'd joined the military to be career, or at least figured he would be with how he moved up through the ranks over time. "Was a dream once, even considered going pro on that bike of mine if I had a shot," the usual kid dreams in a way. Didn't see himself here of all places back then. "Always made up after at least," the last big fight had been when he had signed up, but she made sure that he knew she loved him and it was out of worry and fear. He'd gotten that, really.
Part of why he made sure he could talk to her whenever he had a call home, reassure her he was good. And why Gabriel ended up talking about Jack a lot, she was genuinely interested.
Fingers drummed against his thigh a bit, more some little habit than anything else. "We get to eat them as they get crispy while the pig's still cooking," the skin cracked and curled while cooking in some places after all. "All the more reason to come back home to LA with me for a visit, huh? He'll use it as an excuse to roast a whole pig."
"I got you at least, huh?" Corner of his mouth twitching a bit before he pulled Jack in to a slow but intense sort of kiss, first one without the allure of heat and rut driving it all.
Going pro? Jack smiled, amused but didn't laugh. It was nice to have dreams like that, though everything seemed to be on hold for everyone because of the war. There was no telling how long it would last either, what with the fighting being worldwide. "I can't see you doing pro BMX honestly. You're too talented for something like that. I think actor would be more your speed." Then again, who knew how much of them would be left after the war. "That's good." He made up with his cousins, but that definitely wasn't the same.
Being very private himself, he spoke a little more rarely to his parents. Right now, they knew he had gone away for a government project, so they didn't even know he had met and slept with Gabriel. Once he was free of the program, he planned on getting back in touch with them. It's just he hadn't been certain he would survive it. This was top secret after all, so communication was kind of scarce.
He nodded his head, not at all surprised by that. That sounded delicious, and he made a mental note to do that at his place when he went home. Or apparently when Gabe dragged him off to the wonders of L.A. "Sounds like you're moving into relationship seriousness if you're taking me home to meet your family and eat a roast pig," he remarked with a smile. "Bet your dad and I could talk a long time about barbecuing."
He leaned in the distance and responded to that kiss. He moaned softly, just enjoying himself with no push for something more. "You did get me. Farm animals will smell you all over me too."
He chuckled, "Listen to you, being all flattering even after you've already had a week of me." It was an obvious tease of course. "Going for those extra points now, huh? Making sure I know it's all still there even with hormones chilled the fuck out again." It was sweet, though- "My mother might break out the videos she took of my few performances if you ask nicely." Because of course they'd gotten recorded.
At most his own family knew of Jack's existence and just how well their son got along with this young man from Indiana. That he was doing well, and the most basic of things that wouldn't give away anything being done here. So they wouldn't worry that much more. To know he was still alive.
"May as well, considering." A few things, "Think it'd be fun for the both of us, too." Because he was definitely going to take Jack to The Pie Hole, and a few other places he knew of for food alone. "He'd love having someone to talk to about it, I'm sure. It's one of his favorite things to do."
Nipped lightly at Jack's lower lip when that kiss did finally break. "Be a trip."
"Well... now you know it's an honest opinion rather than flattery designed to get into your pants," he pointed out dryly. They had had conversations in the past where he had made it clear that he was interested in Gabe's life before and during the military. For him, Gabe was easy to talk to. Others might not think so, but he did. "Maybe all this talk is because I like you. Imagine that?" He smiled and would definitely see about asking about acting videos. "First acting videos and then all your baby pictures."
Reconnecting would be good for him, as despite his sunny attitude and positivity, he missed home and his folks a lot. He simply assured himself that he was doing everything he could to protect them, to be the hero they thought he was.
He leaned back on his hands on the bed and watched Gabe for a long moment. "So... we're dating officially?" Even if they didn't tell anyone on base. "The big cities I've been to lately are all war torn, so it would be nice to have a reprieve." Even if they would both know they had to go back. They were expected to have leave after all they were cleared after experimentation. "Well, I would be more than happy to talk to him about it."
He smiled and nuzzled Gabe's face after that nip. "Sounds like we have a few trips in the works."
Gabriel shifted enough that he could lean against Jack's side there on the bed, and rest his head on the man's shoulder, letting out an amused huff. "Not like you gotta sweet-talk your way back in to them now, either," just as dryly. His heat may have been over, but he still wanted contact, physical in whatever he could get. "Just you wait, you'll regret liking me," a slight bump of his head against Jack's jaw, "She'll love showing it all off." Because of course she would.
"Guess we are, yeah. That good with you, being my boyfriend and everything?" They would have to keep it between the two of them, it was safer that way. No one's business anyway as far as Reyes was concerned, too. "Then I guess it's settled that you're coming back home with me for part of our leave."
A hand rested over one of Jack's there on the bed. "It does, yeah."
He was just as happy with physical contact, even if they had a meal to still eat completely. This was good and he tipped his head so that he could lean it on any part of Gabe that happened to be available, in this case the older man's head. "No, not like I have to, but I definitely still will." Because there was romance still to be had, and he was going to take advantage in this change of their status to do just that. "No, I won't. I might have other regrets in my life, but liking you will never be one." His head tipped with the bump. "I have no doubt. I think ma's like to embarrass their kids."
He let that information swirl around his brain. He hadn't had a boyfriend since Vincent, whom he had thought would be the love of his life. But he had broken them up because he couldn't make that young man wait for him as he committed himself wholly to his duty to his country. "It's wonderful. Never thought I'd have it again." He was perfectly accepting of keeping things between them, knew it was a good secret to keep. "It seems like that is settled. You can meet my folks too, see where I grew up."
His fingers twitched under Gabe's hand. "I'm looking forward to it. Don't normally like going home much, since I know I have to come back again. This will be a good change."
They'd eat soon enough, really. Very soon enough. "I wait for you to try it then, because you already know you're allowed to get in to my pants," lightly teasing, but still opening that door saying that Jack damn well could try and romance him if he wanted to. Full green-light there. "Good, really," even if it had been a tease? That was... really weirdly good to hear, especially after that week long locked up together and fucking on anything they could due to hormones.
Who'd have thought he'd end up finding a boyfriend right there in it. Was almost funny to think he'd turned down a proposal of someone who had wanted him to stay back in LA. Forget about joining up in all of this, that he didn't belong there- and hell, that was mostly why he'd said no. How they had clearly seen him to say any of that. That was something he sure as hell hadn't spoken about- "Look forward to it, really."
"Glad to hear that," a good change rather than not looking forward to it, usually. "Also? I hope you like pie. There's a really damn good pie place in LA I'm dragging you to."
He laughed and shook his head in disbelief that this was an actual conversation that they were having. It was nice to have someone who was so comfortable around him and vice versa. "You're just encouraging me to show you everything that I am made of romantic wise." He wouldn't do it right now, thinking that the surprise and thoughtfulness would be far more appreciated. He needed to think and plan his next romantic moves.
Jack believed that everyone who could fight, should fight. It was freedom and the lives of many on the line, and they had a duty to serve. Gabe would be sorely missed not in the lead of the SEP soldiers, and he knew that the older man would thrive once this mess of hormones and alphas briefly challenging was over. They were better off for Gabe's no-nonsense attitude, dry wit and tactical mind.
He smiled because of course he liked pie. "That sounds great. I'll probably have a slice of every one of them they have there, if it's as good as you claim."
"I want to see all you're made up of romantic wise, boy scout. See just how well you can treat me. I can wait," part tease and part challenge, both issued with something so incredibly good natured behind it. Why not? Could be nice to see just how Jack could and would go about something like this.
He might have to crush some egos along the next few days, but he'd done it all once already once it had already gotten out that he wasn't the alpha they'd all just assumed he was with how commanding he was naturally. Be irritating the while he had to reassert himself, but it was manageable and so very possible to do.
That was a grin of Gabriel's expression- "You'll love it," because The Pie Hole had some damn good pies- both the sweet variety and even some savory ones.
All he was made of? That sounded an awful lot like a challenge and who was he to deny that from happening between them? By challenging they could establish something deeper, something no one could ever take from them. Mating was about hormones, but romance was about loving. He was definitely going to be brainstorming all the romantic things he was going to do for this omega, his commander, and his friend. He'd definitely sweep Gabe off of his feet. He wouldn't stop until he had. "Wait for me. I'll make it happen."
He expected that Gabe would put some of the alphas in their place after this, and it wouldn't turn into a paired situation unless the older man asked for his assistance. The omega was perfectly capable of putting down bad opinions and he'd make certain that the situation didn't escalate to others. That would be his function, in support.
He laughed softly and nodded his head. "You sound certain. I suppose that I have to believe you," he murmured affectionately. No point denying how smitten he was anyway.
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timeasmymeasure
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Date: 2020-06-06 05:27 am (UTC)"Did you tell your family that I was a white guy?" Because as nice as he might sound, he still might not be wanted in such a capacity. Like as Gabriel's mate. "I mean, it seems like we crushed on each other the moment we laid eyes on each other." Though it was news to him that Gabe's twin asked after how he was doing. "Does... she ask about me by name?"
He reached up to grasp Gabe's cheeks, stroking with his thumbs. "You don't actually intend on taking me to L.A, do you?"
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Date: 2020-06-06 05:37 am (UTC)She'd gotten an idea how things could be during all of this.
His head tilted, all the better to lean against those hands. "Only if you wanted to come with me for a visit."
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Date: 2020-06-06 03:13 pm (UTC)He hadn't been to L.A. before. The biggest city he had been to when he was young was New York and that had been quite the experience. He had liked the museum and all the action that seemed to happen there. Never a dull moment.
"I wouldn't mind knowing where you live and seeing that city." A small pause. "You could... come to Indiana with me at some point, if you wanted."
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Date: 2020-06-07 01:59 am (UTC)"I'd take you on a tour, show you some of the best local spots and all," Just a nice little personal tour, hang out, hit up the quieter places that did exist around and in LA. "Might enjoy some of the street food, too."
Thought about it for a moment, Gabriel nodding slowly, "Yeah, yeah. That could be really nice."
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Date: 2020-06-07 03:53 pm (UTC)He had to smile at the idea of getting a tour. He'd hit tour-worthy, huh? That was always a great sign. "How many dance clubs, bars and tall buildings will that be? Or do I get to see the beach?" He raised his eyebrows at street food notion. "I haven't had much street food before." You know, war and before that small town.
He could only offer a crooked smile. "I can show you our like... one grocery store, the bowling alley and the many parks." Then his smile faded. "Though, pa will probably put us both to work. Always something to do on the farm."
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Date: 2020-06-08 01:35 am (UTC)He'd hit tour-worthy. "Just a handful- not that many dance clubs I care to hit up, but I know a lot of nice beach spots that don't get crowded by tourists." Handful of locals and all, and some signs were misleading, but there were places to get a spot of peaceful beach even there. "I have a lot to show you when it comes to street food- and food trucks." Had a few favorites he new were still around.
His forehead bumped a little against Jack's. "I like parks, be nice to get out in to any of those- and hit up the grocery store beforehand." Grab a few things to make a quick lunch of sandwiches or something. Couldn't help the snort. "Not surprising, but some farm work'll probably be fun compared to what we're doing here."
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Date: 2020-06-08 02:08 pm (UTC)Jack would prefer beaches to clubs anyway, but he figured at their age that it was expected they would do those anyway. He was curious to meet Gabe's friends as well as family, see the kinds of places he grew up. "So do I get to see the private beaches of L.A.? I hear there are some. And will your ma pull out baby photos if we visit?" His only did that when she thought that he and a boyfriend were serious about each other. "You know that I like to eat." So he was a-okay with being fed constantly.
He chuckled and smoothed a thumb over Gabe's cheek. "We have nice parks, and we'll have a barbecue if the weather is good. Not much to do activity wise, but we have a good time." It was a good place to go for jogs, dirt bike and hunt. "I'll show you how amazing the stars look on the barn roof."
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Date: 2020-06-08 04:31 pm (UTC)Gabriel hummed, leaning down a little just so Jack could still keep a good hold of his face, still combing fingers through blond hair as his head rested there in his lap. "Can sneak on to a few, and also the ones that are actually public but it's not that widely known." Those were some of the nicer ones at times, really. "She might, and hell, you're going to be well fed if my dad has anything to say about it. Man loves to cook giant meals with even the slightest excuse," like him coming home with someone.
"Sounds good to me all the same," because sometimes there was nothing better when you've just had so much to do than just- having time to do nothing and exist after some hard work. No need for so much noise as much as he enjoyed that, too. "I look forward to it- and whatever else you might what to show me on that barn roof."
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Date: 2020-06-09 02:03 pm (UTC)His fingers were still holding and stroking before he simply shifted them to grasp the back of Gabe's neck, resting there as he laced his fingers together. "Sounds like you already have it all planned out, and we don't even know if I'm going to be murdered for mating you yet." He sighed, though couldn't help be amused by the idea of being fed. "Does he? I suppose it's a good thing we can eat our fill and then some with how high our metabolisms are."
They were definitely going to have a barbecue. His pa had a massive traditional one and a dug out one that was amazing and a smoke house on the property. "What else do you think I'll show you on the barn roof?" He was playing at being obtuse. "Oh, well, I guess Ronnie the Rooster is sometimes up there, but he'll probably chase us. He's a jerk."
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Date: 2020-06-09 02:15 pm (UTC)He relaxed like that, leaning over as he ruffled Jack's hair a bit before going back to that slow massage of his scalp. "You'll live, I'm sure. Doubt any of them want to leave me a widow this early by taking out my mate," still very easy to tease about that. Sure, his sister might give him a hard time but there'd be some delight laced throughout. Gotta bully the possible brother-in-law and all at first, no letting off easy. "Probably roast a whole pig if he can manage to get one in time."
Gabriel snorted a bit, "Sunrise, maybe." An eyebrow arched a little- "Well, guess we'll have to be very careful up on that roof."
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Date: 2020-06-10 01:15 am (UTC)He shifted where he lay, thinking that he should sit up but enjoying the attention now that it wasn't with an undertone of need boiling in his blood. "I mean... if they don't know about the bonding bite, they might risk it and set you up with a strapping young man or woman more to their liking. Doesn't sound like your family from what you've told me." He expected a hard time, expected to be put through the third degree, but honestly, it couldn't be worse than boot camp. Cracker had been the nicest thing he'd been called there, and he'd be dumped out of his bunk more times than he cared to remember.
Yet, he perked and tilted his head like an interested dog at the mention of whole pig. That wasn't easy to do. "A whole pig? He has to do that over a spit. Does he have an outdoor barbecue?" Now there was something he could get behind. Jack loved to barbecue, and he liked to think he was damn good at it too.
"Sunrise is something I can make happen." He shrugged his shoulders helplessly. "Ronnie thinks I'm stealing his ladies all the time, so he's been chasing me for years."
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Date: 2020-06-10 05:15 am (UTC)Apparently he was wrong- "Yeah, has a set-up in the backyard and everything. Even has a spit he can take with him on to the beach and all." Because roasting an entire pig on one of the beaches frequented by mostly locals was always a good time. "No one has ever done a better tasting spit roasted pig than him, and the left overs last for days- we even sometimes put the leftover pulled pork on pineapple pizza."
Gabriel chuckled, leaning down enough to press a kiss against Jack's forehead. "Too bad bringing home a boyfriend won't make it clear you're not interested in his ladies."
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Date: 2020-06-10 01:44 pm (UTC)Oh. My. God. Jack was listening raptly, mind racing because having a portable spit was an amazing idea. He even decided to sit up again this was so important to listen to, rubbing his chin with his thumb and forefinger. "That sounds amazing. Does he braise the pig? Spice it before, after or during the cooking process? Does he make his own sauce to go with it? I might need the recipe." Now he was just excited.
He laughed and gave Gabe's shoulder a playful shove. "Naw, Ronnie will just think you're more competition and chase you too. Farm fresh eggs come with a price."
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Date: 2020-06-11 09:32 am (UTC)"He does get spices and all in it before hoisting over the fire? Does rub it down with something, too, and while it's turning on the spit he does paint it with a sauce- the skin gets all nice- like you know what cracklins are, right?" The skin always went first once it was done and the rest was dug in to. "The meat stays nice and juicy and flavorful, well seasoned inside and out." His dad was proud of it.
Gabriel shoved back just the save, even if he caught Jack's collar and tugged him closer right after- "I don't think my grandfater kept a rooster- or at least I never saw it. The hens used to follow me around when I visited."
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Date: 2020-06-12 01:26 am (UTC)This sounded great, too good to be true. People could say that they liked barbecuing, but there were some levels of it that could be considered elite and a whole pig was up there. "I know exactly what cracklins are," he said with enthusiasm. "Sounds like your dad is someone I will definitely have to meet up with. We can talk barbecue shop together." And maybe Jack would have to show off his skills here if there was opportunity.
With his collar caught, he couldn't resist the pull in, smile tugging the corner of his mouth. "So you're a ladies man and a gentleman's man? Ronnie is going to strut and squawk and chase you so much."
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Date: 2020-06-12 08:57 pm (UTC)Part of why he made sure he could talk to her whenever he had a call home, reassure her he was good. And why Gabriel ended up talking about Jack a lot, she was genuinely interested.
Fingers drummed against his thigh a bit, more some little habit than anything else. "We get to eat them as they get crispy while the pig's still cooking," the skin cracked and curled while cooking in some places after all. "All the more reason to come back home to LA with me for a visit, huh? He'll use it as an excuse to roast a whole pig."
"I got you at least, huh?" Corner of his mouth twitching a bit before he pulled Jack in to a slow but intense sort of kiss, first one without the allure of heat and rut driving it all.
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Date: 2020-06-13 02:37 am (UTC)Being very private himself, he spoke a little more rarely to his parents. Right now, they knew he had gone away for a government project, so they didn't even know he had met and slept with Gabriel. Once he was free of the program, he planned on getting back in touch with them. It's just he hadn't been certain he would survive it. This was top secret after all, so communication was kind of scarce.
He nodded his head, not at all surprised by that. That sounded delicious, and he made a mental note to do that at his place when he went home. Or apparently when Gabe dragged him off to the wonders of L.A. "Sounds like you're moving into relationship seriousness if you're taking me home to meet your family and eat a roast pig," he remarked with a smile. "Bet your dad and I could talk a long time about barbecuing."
He leaned in the distance and responded to that kiss. He moaned softly, just enjoying himself with no push for something more. "You did get me. Farm animals will smell you all over me too."
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Date: 2020-06-13 10:44 am (UTC)At most his own family knew of Jack's existence and just how well their son got along with this young man from Indiana. That he was doing well, and the most basic of things that wouldn't give away anything being done here. So they wouldn't worry that much more. To know he was still alive.
"May as well, considering." A few things, "Think it'd be fun for the both of us, too." Because he was definitely going to take Jack to The Pie Hole, and a few other places he knew of for food alone. "He'd love having someone to talk to about it, I'm sure. It's one of his favorite things to do."
Nipped lightly at Jack's lower lip when that kiss did finally break. "Be a trip."
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Date: 2020-06-13 05:00 pm (UTC)Reconnecting would be good for him, as despite his sunny attitude and positivity, he missed home and his folks a lot. He simply assured himself that he was doing everything he could to protect them, to be the hero they thought he was.
He leaned back on his hands on the bed and watched Gabe for a long moment. "So... we're dating officially?" Even if they didn't tell anyone on base. "The big cities I've been to lately are all war torn, so it would be nice to have a reprieve." Even if they would both know they had to go back. They were expected to have leave after all they were cleared after experimentation. "Well, I would be more than happy to talk to him about it."
He smiled and nuzzled Gabe's face after that nip. "Sounds like we have a few trips in the works."
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Date: 2020-06-13 05:51 pm (UTC)"Guess we are, yeah. That good with you, being my boyfriend and everything?" They would have to keep it between the two of them, it was safer that way. No one's business anyway as far as Reyes was concerned, too. "Then I guess it's settled that you're coming back home with me for part of our leave."
A hand rested over one of Jack's there on the bed. "It does, yeah."
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Date: 2020-06-13 06:03 pm (UTC)He let that information swirl around his brain. He hadn't had a boyfriend since Vincent, whom he had thought would be the love of his life. But he had broken them up because he couldn't make that young man wait for him as he committed himself wholly to his duty to his country. "It's wonderful. Never thought I'd have it again." He was perfectly accepting of keeping things between them, knew it was a good secret to keep. "It seems like that is settled. You can meet my folks too, see where I grew up."
His fingers twitched under Gabe's hand. "I'm looking forward to it. Don't normally like going home much, since I know I have to come back again. This will be a good change."
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Date: 2020-06-13 09:04 pm (UTC)Who'd have thought he'd end up finding a boyfriend right there in it. Was almost funny to think he'd turned down a proposal of someone who had wanted him to stay back in LA. Forget about joining up in all of this, that he didn't belong there- and hell, that was mostly why he'd said no. How they had clearly seen him to say any of that. That was something he sure as hell hadn't spoken about- "Look forward to it, really."
"Glad to hear that," a good change rather than not looking forward to it, usually. "Also? I hope you like pie. There's a really damn good pie place in LA I'm dragging you to."
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Date: 2020-06-14 05:13 pm (UTC)Jack believed that everyone who could fight, should fight. It was freedom and the lives of many on the line, and they had a duty to serve. Gabe would be sorely missed not in the lead of the SEP soldiers, and he knew that the older man would thrive once this mess of hormones and alphas briefly challenging was over. They were better off for Gabe's no-nonsense attitude, dry wit and tactical mind.
He smiled because of course he liked pie. "That sounds great. I'll probably have a slice of every one of them they have there, if it's as good as you claim."
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Date: 2020-06-15 05:13 pm (UTC)He might have to crush some egos along the next few days, but he'd done it all once already once it had already gotten out that he wasn't the alpha they'd all just assumed he was with how commanding he was naturally. Be irritating the while he had to reassert himself, but it was manageable and so very possible to do.
That was a grin of Gabriel's expression- "You'll love it," because The Pie Hole had some damn good pies- both the sweet variety and even some savory ones.
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Date: 2020-06-16 02:04 pm (UTC)He expected that Gabe would put some of the alphas in their place after this, and it wouldn't turn into a paired situation unless the older man asked for his assistance. The omega was perfectly capable of putting down bad opinions and he'd make certain that the situation didn't escalate to others. That would be his function, in support.
He laughed softly and nodded his head. "You sound certain. I suppose that I have to believe you," he murmured affectionately. No point denying how smitten he was anyway.
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