DISCLAIMER: Pet Fly and Paramount own the copyright to The Sentinel and its characters. This piece of fan fiction was written solely for the love of the characters and to share freely with other fans. No profit is being made from the posting of this story.

AUTHOR'S NOTES: Previously published in Angel on My Mind 4, spring of 2001.

ACKNOWLEGMENTS: Many thanks to Kimberly and Allison, intrepid beta readers who kept me on track with excellent comments, to Sensor for suggestions that added to Jim's emotional state {g}, and to Heather-Anne, mistress of punctuation.

RATING: NC-17

CATEGORY: Holiday: Valentine's Day; Romance, First Times

SUMMARY: Jim has a secret admirer. As Valentine's Day draws near, will he discover the identity of his mysterious benefactor?

Comments welcome and appreciated!

"So, Chief...." Jim busied himself in the kitchen, putting the finishing touches on the beef stew that was to be their dinner. "Have you decided what to get Amalia for Valentine's Day?"

A disgusted snort sounded from the table, where Blair was laying out the silverware. "Amalia's history, man. Gone. Kaput. Flaming wreckage." He made a swooping motion with his hands, accompanied by appropriate sound effects, then mimed a huge explosion.

Jim glanced up, smiling at his friend's histrionics. "Forgot her birthday? An anniversary? What?"

"Geez, it wasn't even my screw-up this time!" Blair dropped into the nearest chair, shoving thick curls back from his face, and looked at Jim. "She found someone 'better' and dropped me like a hot potato." He sighed dramatically.

Jim dished up the stew and carried the plates to the table. Placing one in front of Blair, he seated himself across from his friend. "It's tough not having someone special on Valentine's Day," he commiserated. "Since Carolyn and I divorced, there hasn't been anyone in my life long enough to celebrate the day."

Blair pushed the meat and potatoes around the plate with his fork, his appetite not quite up to the task of eating. Concentrating for a few moments on spearing a bright orange chunk of carrot, he twirled it around before putting it in his mouth and chewing thoughtfully. He swallowed and looked longingly at the man across the table. "It just feels kind of lonely, you know? Like I don't have anyone special. That there's nobody who really cares."

"Yeah. Been there. Done that," Jim sighed. He could empathize with Blair's sentiments. Lonely didn't even begin to describe it.

They finished their dinner in a thoughtful, if a bit melancholy, mood.

After they'd cleared the table and washed the dishes, Jim grabbed a couple beers from the ancient refrigerator. "How about a cold one while we watch the Jags' game?" He tossed a frosty bottle the short distance to the waiting hands of his friend.

"Sounds good to me." Sandburg popped the bottle cap and tossed it in the garbage. He made his way over to the couch, sitting in the middle. Tucking his feet up under himself on the cushions, he made himself comfortable. He watched with private enjoyment as his well-built roommate made his way across from the kitchen to the couch. Well... he was an observer, he excused himself. How could it hurt to appreciate the subject of his observations?

Jim picked up the remote and turned on the TV, settling on the nearest cushion, his thigh mere inches from Blair's knee. He took a long swig of his beer, listening as his roommate babbled on about the players and referees.

As he frequently did, Jim tuned out the words and homed in on the comforting sound of Blair's voice. Other senses kicked into gear as well. He could smell the complex blend of herbs and sweat that bespoke the young man's personal scent. He could feel the minute breeze caused by the motion of those ever-active hands and the bounce of silken curls as Blair cheered on his team. The sight of those mahogany curls dancing around a stubbled jaw mesmerized him.

"Jim? Hey, Jim. Follow the sound of my voice. Time to come back." Jim could feel strong hands on his biceps, shaking him gently, then stroking soothingly as he began to come out of his zone.

Shaking his head to clear the cobwebs, he looked into the concerned gaze of his roommate. "I'm okay. Guess I'm just a little tired." He shook himself free of Blair's gentle embrace and rubbed at his eyes.

"You had me worried there. One minute we were watching the game, the next you were off in La-La Land somewhere."

"How long?" Jim asked, trying hard to ignore Sandburg's nearness.

"Five minutes." Blair shook his head. "If you're that tired, maybe you'd better hit the sack."

Jim stood up, thumping the young man on the back. "Yeah, I think you're right. Hey, don't worry," he added. "I'm fine. Really."

"If you say so, Jim," Blair replied, unconvinced.

Jim made his way to the bathroom, then, a short time later, up the stairs to his bed.

Blair turned off the TV and headed for his little cubby-hole room. He could study a bit before turning in. Dropping onto his bed, he picked up the heavy Anthropology tome that lay there, waiting. Perching his glasses on his nose, he began to read.

"Delivery for Detective James Ellison?" A man from one of the local florist shops walked through the doors of Major Crime carrying a large vase filled with eleven blossoming red roses and one white rosebud.

Jim turned at the sound, indicating he was the man the florist wanted by a slight raise of his hand. All heads turned to watch as the man set the flowers on Jim's desk. Taking out his wallet, Jim handed him a tip.

"Thank you, but that's not necessary, sir," he said, giving the money back. "The tip's been taken care of." Turning, he left the stunned detective with a handful of bills and a puzzled expression.

"Who're they from?" Joel asked, trying to sound casual as he strolled over to Jim's desk.

Pulling the card from the small envelope nestled within the flowers, Jim read, "From Your Secret Valentine."

"That's it?" Joel asked, pulling the card from Jim's fingers to have a look. His smile broadened as he handed the card back. "Well, what'dya know? Ellison has a 'Secret Valentine'!" He chuckled and slapped Jim on the back. "Way to go, Jimbo!"

"Yeah, right," Jim groused, embarrassed by the sudden attention the flowers were bringing him. He tossed the card onto his desk with a touch of exasperation. Just as he was finally settling back to work, Blair blew in through the door.

"G'morning, Jim! Wow, that's quite a bouquet! Who's it from? You holding out on me?" Blair snatched the card from Jim's desk before he could protest. Standing nearer to his friend than was absolutely necessary, Blair glanced at the missive. "Your Secret Valentine, eh? Oh, that's a good one! Who is she, Jim?"

"I haven't the faintest idea," Jim grumbled, ignoring the tantalizing closeness of his partner. "I think maybe I'll just pass these along to Rhonda. She'd enjoy them more."

"What would your 'Secret Valentine' think if she walked in and saw the roses on Rhonda's desk?" Blair asked, his voice sounding a little strained. "You don't want to screw up the possibility of a hot date, do you? I mean, geez, man...." His voice dropped conspiratorially, "How long has it been since you got some?"

"None of your damn business, Sandburg!" Jim blurted, immediately sorry for the sharp tone when he saw the hurt in those beautiful blue eyes.

Blair backed away, ashamed that the words could cut so easily through his heart. "Sorry," he whispered. "I'll just mind my own business and leave you alone."

Jim reached out to grab the arm of the retreating observer. "No, Chief. I'm the one who should apologize. I guess I'm just a little embarrassed, is all. And I don't have the faintest idea who this girl is."

"You'll figure it out." Mollified by the apology, Blair stopped struggling and returned to the detective's side. "You've still got four days until Valentine's, anyway." Pulling up a chair, he sat next to his friend. "Got any paperwork you want me to do?"

"I thought you'd never ask," Jim smiled, handing Blair a stack.

The next day, Jim exited Simon's office to find a small crowd gathered around his desk. "Where's the fire?" he asked, approaching cautiously.

Rafe chuckled, sliding from his perch on the desk to reveal a red, foil-wrapped box. "Right here, Detective!" He picked up the package and handed it to Jim.

Ellison stood, dumbfounded, staring at the large red bow, flecked with small white hearts.

"Aren't you going to open it?" teased Brown.

"In my own time, H," he replied, dropping the box back onto his desk. "Now, could you all please make tracks?" he addressed the assemblage. "Some of us have work to do."

"You gotta at least look at the card," Rafe chided.

Reluctantly, Jim slid the card from beneath the ribbon. His name had been written in flowing script on the envelope. He pulled out the card, frowning as he read, "From Your Secret Valentine."

"Way cool!" crowed Brown. "This chick's really got the hots for you!"

"Better stop hanging around Sandburg, H," Jim commented dryly. "You're starting to sound like him."

"Whoa!" The voice came from behind the small group. Jim turned to find Blair standing on tiptoe, trying to see over his shoulder. "Godiva chocolates! Whoever this woman is, she's got taste!" He slapped Jim on the shoulder, a wide grin creasing his face. "Figure out who it is yet?"

"No," Jim answered curtly, "and I don't intend to. If she wants to make herself known to me, she will." Despite his brusque attitude, a corner of Jim's heart warmed with the thought that somebody cared. Ruthlessly, he stuffed the uncharacteristic feeling back beneath a stoic facade.

"Where's your curiosity? Where's your sense of adventure?" Blair perched himself on the edge of Jim's desk, picking up the box and turning it over to admire it from all angles. Meanwhile, the only angle that really interested Jim was the tight curve of a jeans-clad butt as it rested against his desk.

"Flew south for the winter, I guess," Jim answered, trying not to stare.

A smile quirked the corners of Sandburg's lips as he noticed his partner's clandestine scrutiny.

The following day, the beleaguered detective didn't fare any better. He had just returned from the morgue, where he had been discussing the autopsy of a particularly grisly murder with the coroner, when he bumped into Shelley, the girl from the mail room.

"Got a package for you, Detective Ellison," she said, handing over the padded manila envelope. She eyed the tall detective with admiration. He was definitely out of her league, but she enjoyed the view nonetheless.

"Thanks, Shelley," Jim said, turning a dazzling smile on the mousy young woman.

"You're welcome." She blushed, hurrying off down the hall.

Jim stared at the envelope. It didn't have a proper address, as though someone had simply dropped it off in the mail room. Flowing script declared "Jim Ellison" across the front. Sighing, he turned it over and over in his hands, wondering if he should even open it.

"What are you waiting for?" came a cheerful voice from down the hall.

Looking up, Jim watched as Blair walked toward him, finding himself hypnotized by the gentle sway of narrow hips as the young man approached.

"Well... ? Aren't you going to open it?" Blair sidled up next Jim, peering at the package.

Reluctantly, Jim tore at the flap, pulling out a square package wrapped conservatively in glossy white paper with a red ribbon. The small card attached read: "Your Secret Valentine." Jim shook his head and handed the package to Blair. "You open it," he begged.

Holding up his hands, palms outward, Blair shook his head. Taking perverse delight in the handsome detective's discomfort, he smiled. "She's your secret Valentine. You open it!"

Jim picked at the ribbon, taking his time. He peeled the tape back carefully, as though trying to conserve the wrapping paper. Blair fidgeted by his side, barely able to contain his frustration as he waited.

Finally, the paper fell away revealing a boxed set of CDs: "Jazz Moods: An Intimate Evening." The three-CD set contained soft, romantic jazz by a variety of artists. Jim grinned. "Finally... something I can actually use!"

"I'll bet your lady-friend expects you to woo her with that music." Blair's grin spread from ear to ear.

"Isn't going to happen if she doesn't reveal herself pretty soon," Jim pointed out, shaking his head.

"I think it's kind of romantic!" Blair chuckled. "Wish I had a secret Valentine."

"Better you than me, Sandburg," Jim muttered.

The day before Valentine's day started off innocently enough. Sentinel and Guide investigated a mob shooting and a car bomb, then had to wrestle with the Feds over jurisdiction of a case into which they'd already put a week of sweat and blood. All the while, paperwork was piling up on Jim's desk. He was more than happy to spend the last couple hours of the day quietly dealing with it.

Blair sat nearby, working on another computer, inputting the report data. Jim sneaked a look. Even with his hair tied back, glasses on and dressed in loose flannel, the police observer looked absolutely delectable. Jim's mind wandered from his work as he tried to decide if he should give his seemingly-oblivious partner a ticket on the clue bus. Nah, he decided. No reason to spoil a good thing.

His thoughts were interrupted by another delivery. Like the first day, the florist was delivering a dozen roses, but this time there were eleven white rosebuds and one fully-opened blood-red rose. A note was nestled amongst the flowers.

Jim opened the card and read silently, "Tomorrow I give my innocence to you. Your Secret Valentine."

Blair glanced up from his work. The handsome face of his friend was marred by a frown. He stood up and crossed the short space that separated him from his partner just as Jim tossed the note on his desk with disgust.

"Just what kind of crap is this?" Jim demanded. "Should I be worried? This woman could be a stalker for all I know."

"Oh, I don't know," Blair commented, picking up the note to read the contents. "She could just have a really romantic evening planned. Go with the flow."

"Yeah, I suppose. . . ," Jim reluctantly agreed. "Let's call it a day, okay?"

"Sounds good to me. How about we stop at that little Thai restaurant on the way home and pick up something for dinner?"

"Sounds like a plan." Jim grabbed their coats and tossed Blair's to him. They walked out of the bullpen, leaving the flowers prominently displayed on Jim's desk.

Valentine's Day:

"You gonna be okay today?" Jim stood by the door, ready to leave for the precinct and whatever surprises awaited him.

"Sure. I'll be fine, Jim. Don't worry about me," Blair assured his roommate. "I've got plenty to do at the U today. No time to feel sorry for myself."

"You sure?"

"Yeah, I'm sure. You'd better get going or you'll be late for work."

Jim opened the door, turning to look at that angelic face one last time. It was going to be a long day without his partner by his side.

As the door finally closed, leaving him alone, Blair sighed. Praying his idea wouldn't blow up in his face, he pulled a book from his backpack and settled on the couch. Flipping through the pages, a smile began to play around the corners of his mouth....

That evening:

It had been a long day, just as Jim had expected it to be. Thankfully, no more gifts had arrived to publicly embarrass him. He rode the elevator up to the third floor. As he walked down the hall, delicious scents assaulted him. He dialed up his sense of smell, detecting the faint odor of salmon, a Northwest delicacy, interlaced with herbs.

Opening the door to #307, he drew in a sharp breath at the sight that greeted him. Blair stood at the kitchen island, busying himself with tossing a salad. Dressed in skin-tight black jeans and a white poet's shirt, open at the collar, his roommate was a vision which sent the stressed-out Sentinel's blood pressure soaring.

Swallowing the lump that had suddenly formed in this throat, Jim spoke. "Expecting a hot date, Chief?" Privately, his heart plunged to his feet at the thought. He knew he should be happy for his friend, but the aching in his groin said otherwise.

"Sure hope so." Blair's smile lit the dim room with an incandescent brilliance.

"Oh, well, then... just give me a few and I'll get out of your hair." I'd love to get into your hair, he mused to himself, and your mouth and those tight jeans. God, Blair! Give a man a break!

He moved slowly toward the stairs to his bedroom.

"Where're you going?" Blair asked.

"I'll just change into something comfortable and get out of here. I'll pick up some dinner at Wonderburger."

"Wonderburger, like hell! After I've slaved all day over this dinner?" Putting on a show of righteous indignation, the young man walked over to where the stunned Sentinel stood at the foot of the stairs.

Invading Jim's personal space, he slipped his arms around the older man's waist, gazing up into startled blue eyes. "You can go change into something more comfortable," he purred, "but you're sure as hell not going anywhere."

"This is delicious!" Jim looked up at his roommate and smiled. The meal of honey-glazed salmon and steamed asparagus with rosemary was a delight. Accompanied by an artichoke heart salad and a light white wine, the meal was near perfection.

Blair smiled back shyly, ducking his head at Jim's intense gaze. "Oh, it's just a little something I whipped up," he said softly.

"Yeah, right. You must have slaved over this all day!" Jim was genuinely surprised by the gesture. "And you meant this for me? It wasn't made for a date that didn't show?"

"Just for you," Blair confirmed. He scraped his chair back and stood. "Wait till you see what we have for dessert!" He walked over to the refrigerator and removed his creation.

Jim's eyes grew wide at the sight of the cake Blair was carrying. The scent of chocolate and strawberries made his nostrils flair in anticipation.

Blair cut small slices of the rich dessert, placing them on cut-crystal plates and setting one near Jim, who was just finishing up the main course. Plucking the empty plate from in front of his friend, Blair carried the dirty dishes to the sink before returning to enjoy the confection.

"Mmmm!" Jim murmured around his first bite. "This is heaven."

An unusually shy Blair hid his face behind a cascade of dark curls as he bent over his plate.

When they had finally finished, the men both stood together. Blair reached for the empty plate, but was stopped by a strong hand. "No, let me," Jim offered. "You made the dinner. Let me do the dishes."

"Can the dishes wait?" Blair asked, knowing that his roommate preferred to clean up immediately after meals. "Can't we just put them in the sink for now? Let them soak?"

Jim noticed the hesitancy in his friend's voice. Blair was nervous as hell. Relenting, he put the dishes in the sink and walked back over to his partner. "How about we sit down and have a little talk about what's bothering you." A firm hand to the small of Blair's back guided the young man over to the couch. They sat down, silence reigning in the darkened room.

"So give, Chief," Jim finally opened the conversation. When no response was forthcoming, he cupped Blair's chin, bringing his head up, and looked deeply into smoky blue eyes. "Why the elaborate display? Surely you realized how I felt?"

Blair blushed and glanced downward, unable to meet Jim's steady gaze. "You weren't exactly the epitome of discretion," he murmured. Gathering his courage, he looked up. "I just didn't know how to tell you I felt the same."

"You did a pretty spectacular job of it," Jim commented dryly.

"You're not mad at me, then?"

A smile slowly spread across Jim's face. "Hell, no," he whispered huskily. "The dinner was delicious. Thank you." He edged closer, until his thigh bumped against Blair's.

"I, um, got the recipes from a book called 'Intercourses: An Aphrodisiac Cookbook.' Figured it couldn't hurt to help things along a little," Blair explained.

"You didn't need any hocus pocus to seduce me." A long arm snaked around Blair's waist, pulling him closer. "Don't you know you seduce me every day? Your voice. Your walk. Your smile... a look." His free hand reached up to grasp Blair's chin, turning him to look deeply into his eyes. "The way you perch that cute butt on the edge of my desk, or lean over me with that beautiful hair hanging loose." His hand moved to the coveted mass of curls, fingers tangling in the silken strands.

He moved in closer, brushing his lips softly across Blair's. A fine tremor wove through the body he was holding. His tongue parted Blair's lips, seeking entrance. There was a pause, so slight that no one but a Sentinel would have noticed, before his lover opened himself and let Jim explore.

Jim's hand moved to tangle in the soft hair at the nape of Blair's neck, supporting his head as Jim dove deeper into the warm cavern of his mouth. Taste flared brightly on his tongue--the taste of his Guide, his love. Drowning in the sensation, he pressed on.

Finally, a pair of hands on his chest, pushing gently, brought Jim back to his senses. He broke the kiss, pulling his hand away from the silken hair. Smiling with a touch of embarrassment, Jim tugged playfully on a curl. "Sorry about that," he said, not sounding particularly repentant.

"It's okay, Jim," Blair replied a bit breathlessly. "It's just that some of us have to breathe occasionally." He watched his new lover closely, his gaze never leaving Jim's eyes.

Sensing hesitation in his partner, Jim released him, settling back against the cushions. Pushing an errant strand of hair from Blair's forehead, he noted the young man's body language. "Nervous?"

"Nah." Blair managed a smile. "Scared shitless is a little closer to the mark."

"You don't have to be afraid around me, Blair... not ever." He reached toward the coffee table, picking up a small bowl filled with a golden liquid. "What's this?"

"Massage oil," Blair told him. "There was a recipe for that in the cookbook, too."

"I think we can make good use of this," Jim smiled. "But first . . ." He got up and walked over to the stereo. "I think we need a little background music. Helps to set the mood, you know?" He picked up the jewel case containing the CDs Blair had given him, placing all three in the changer. Soft strains of mellow jazz echoed quietly through the loft.

Jim returned to sit next to Blair on the couch. "What would you like to do now?" he asked, snuggling closer.

"Maybe just cuddle a little?" Blair suggested, leaning his head against Jim's chest.

"Sounds good to me," Jim agreed. He wrapped his arm around Blair's shoulder, pulling him in closer, tucking him into the cradle formed between his arm and chest. "We'll take this slow. Your pace. Okay?" He felt a nod of consent. "If anything feels wrong or I move too fast, you just say so. Promise?"

"I promise," came the reply, muffled by the soft fabric of his friend's shirt. "This feels really, really good, Jim." Blair wrapped both his arms around Jim's waist and squeezed.

As they sat in contented silence, Blair worked his way onto his lover's lap. Jim buried his face in the fragrant, dark curls atop Sandburg's head. Everything was bliss until Blair squirmed, trying to find a more comfortable position. The movement caused Jim's cock to respond. He felt a growing tightness in his jeans as his erection grew.

Tilting Blair's head back, Jim once again kissed the full, responsive lips. Blair's reaction was not as tentative this time, his tongue venturing to duel with Jim's.

While their mouths were busy, Jim undid the button and pulled down the zipper on Blair's jeans. Mildly surprised to find Sandburg had chosen to not wear underwear, he placed his hand against the hot mound of hardening flesh. Narrow hips thrust upward into his hand, brazenly demanding touch. He broke the kiss briefly to tug the jeans down, freeing the swollen genitals from their denim prison. With a modicum of wriggling, Sandburg kicked free of the confining garment.

A sigh of relief escaped Blair's lips as Jim began stroking the rigid organ. Using the pre-ejaculate already weeping from the tip, Jim lubricated his palm to reduce the friction of his pumping fist.

Blair moaned, throwing back his head. Eyes closed, mouth hanging slightly open, the young man looked wanton in his desires. Jim wanted nothing more than to possess this man, body and soul. Without releasing his hold on his companion's penis, he slipped out from underneath the young man. Dropping onto the floor, he spread Blair's knees and knelt between them. When his fist released the aching organ, a whimper escaped Blair's lips. The sound of loss was quickly replaced by a gasp and moan as the slick warmth of Jim's mouth enveloped him.

Jim took his time, savoring the scent and flavor of Blair's musky arousal. His tongue circled the weeping glans, mapping every curve, dip and ridge. As he made his way slowly down the shaft, licking and nipping at the sensitive skin, Blair's hips thrust up to him, urging him to greater speed.

Lowering himself to sit on his heels, Jim continued his torturous path, reaching the base, burying his nose and mouth in wiry-soft pubic hair. Turning his attention lower, he sucked first one testicle, then the other, into his mouth, rolling the balls around on his tongue before releasing them.

His intentions had been to go even lower, but Blair had other ideas. Sinking his fingers into his lover's close-cropped hair, he pulled Jim's head up. "Damn it, man, get on with it! I can't take much more." The look on Blair's face was priceless--lust, fear and need all warred in his eyes, his teeth were clenched and it was taking all his strength to hang on to what little sanity Jim had left him.

Obligingly, Jim rose onto his knees. Moving with calculated slowness, he lowered his mouth onto the straining cock, taking its length down his throat, then lifting his head until only his lips encircled the swollen glans. He paused briefly, then swallowed the shaft once more. Settling into a steady rhythm, he matched his lover as Blair began to thrust his hips in counterpoint.

Soft groans of pleasure drifted down from above as Jim scraped his teeth along the aching shaft. Suddenly, he felt hands at his shoulders, pushing him away. "Jim, Jim... wait." Blair's voice caught in his throat. Swallowing past the lump, he pleaded, "I'm coming. I'm coming." The pushing became more insistent.

Jim realized his partner was warning him--warning him to back off before he came down Jim's throat. But he wanted nothing more than to drink the essence of this beautiful man: his partner, his Guide, his love. With a cry of completion, Blair came explosively. Jim swallowed it all, lapping up the last drops as they leaked from the softening tip.

Settling himself back onto the couch, Jim pulled his languid lover into his arms. "Was it good?" he whispered against Blair's temple as he peppered the other man's face with kisses.

"Oh, God, Jim... ! That was incredible!" He sank into the comfort of the arms enfolding him. "Never figured the night would end this well."

"Who said anything about ending?" Jim looked into eyes drowsy with completion. "We still need to make use of that massage oil you cooked up." He grinned wickedly.

"That's right," Blair mumbled contentedly. "Can't let that go to waste. Besides... I owe you one." He turned slightly in Jim's arms, breaking the hold the bigger man had on his shoulders. Standing, he picked up the bowl of oil from the table and held out his free hand to Jim.

Reaching out with one hand, Jim allowed the younger man to pull him up off the couch, his own erection already making moving difficult. He followed obediently as Blair led him up the stairs to his bedroom and eased him down on the large bed.

Setting the massage oil on a nightstand, Blair lit several candles he had brought up earlier. Jim smiled. The kid had gone to great lengths to complete his seduction. It was an answer to his every prayer; Jim was not about to complain.

Approaching the bed, Blair reached out and began unbuttoning Jim's shirt. As each button undone revealed more and more flesh, Blair leaned in to kiss the smoothly muscled chest. Jim's nipples had hardened to tight points as the cool air hit his bare skin. Blair nipped and suckled at the rosy buds as he pulled the shirttails from Jim's pants. Pushing the shirt off Jim's shoulders, he openly admired the object of his desire.

His long, white cotton poet's shirt did little to hide the curve of a shapely ass or the swelling of his genitals as Blair stood before Jim, shivering in anticipation. Reaching out, Jim cupped the balls hanging so seductively close to his hands. Brushing his fingers along the length of Blair's penis, he watched as the organ began to stiffen once more. "Ah... youth...." he murmured appreciatively.

Blair knelt before his lover, taking zipper in hand to remove the jeans. Flicking the button open, he slid the pull down slowly, letting the Sentinel hear each snick of the zipper as it released its hold. Tugging at the waistband, he pulled off jeans and boxers together, tossing them away from the bed.

Pushing Jim down onto the mattress, Blair crawled up beside him. "Roll onto your stomach," he commanded, voice husky with arousal.

Jim did as he was told, reaching down to adjust his ample erection to a more comfortable position.

Blair straddled Jim's legs and leaned across the bigger man to the nightstand. Taking the small bowl of oil, he poured a teaspoonful into his palm and let his body heat warm it gently. Bending over his lover, he spread the oil across Jim's shoulders, beginning a firm kneading of stiff, knotted muscles in his upper back.

Jim sank into the mattress with a contented sigh. Part of his mind was surprised that Sandburg appeared to be a talented masseur, while another section of his brain wondered why anything surprised him about his roommate any longer.

More oil was drizzled onto his back as Blair continued to work lower, finally reaching the chiseled curves of Jim's butt. Fingers dug into the muscles there, kneading the mounds, causing Jim to relax even further. Sliding an oiled finger down the crease between the cheeks, Blair found the opening he sought.

Jim jerked to alertness as a single slick finger penetrated the tight ring of muscle around his anus. Blair paused at the sudden movement, uncertain and more than a little nervous.

Not wanting his lover to stop, Jim willed himself to relax at the unexpected invasion. A moan of pleasure escaped his lips. Feeling the ease of tension in the muscle, Blair allowed his finger to probe deeper into the hot channel.

Silken strands of hair brushed along Jim's back as Blair planted moist kisses up his spine. Warm lips lingered between his shoulder blades before kissing their way up to his neck and over to one ear. Nibbling and sucking on the lobe, Blair eased a second oiled finger into the tight opening, scissoring to stretch the muscle. The fingers dove deep, connecting unexpectedly with Jim's prostate.

Jim lurched at the sensation, nearly bucking his lover off his back. His hard cock pressed into the mattress with an almost painful intensity.

Blair backed off, nearly pulling his fingers out of Jim's ass. Leaning down toward the ear he'd just been nibbling, he whispered with a shaky voice, "You okay?"

Jim turned his head to look into the worried blue eyes. The smile that lit his face did more to dispel Blair's fears than the words. "Yeah. I'm okay. More than okay. Please, don't stop." Sighing deeply, he buried his face in his arms, anxious for Blair to take up where he'd left off.

Easing his fingers back in, Blair thrust gently, feeling for the nub he'd touched before. Connecting again, he smiled at Jim's lusty moan as he found his thrusts being met by the upward humping of Jim's hips.

Feeling that the sphincter muscle around his fingers had relaxed sufficiently, Blair slid his fingers out, to the disappointed groan of his lover. Reaching over to the nightstand, he pulled open a drawer, plucking out a foil-wrapped condom. Tearing the package open and tossing the wrapper carelessly to the floor, Blair rolled the lambskin sheath down the length of his hard shaft. Knowing the sensitivity of his partner, and not wanting to risk an unexpected reaction to latex, Blair had gone to considerable trouble to find the natural condoms. Now protected, he rubbed a small amount of the massage oil over himself, drizzling a bit extra between the spread cheeks of Jim's butt.

Positioning himself with care, Blair pressed the head of his penis against the stretched muscle, pleased when Jim opened readily to him. He pushed slowly, still a bit unsure as to whether or not he was hurting his lover.

Jim had had enough of tentativeness. Thrusting his hips upward, he impaled himself on the full length of Blair's cock. Pulling back, he thrust again, urging the young man to match his rhythm.

Always a quick study, Blair kept pace with Jim's thrusts, burying himself deeper with each push. He reached a hand down under them, grasping Jim's erection and thrusting his hand in synch with their hips.

Jim groaned with pleasure at the sensation of having Blair inside him. The last time he'd been with a man was back in his army days, and then he'd mostly topped. This was the most incredible experience he'd had in years. Nothing like a little submission to turn up the heat in a romance.

As the almost unimaginable feelings continued, Jim ceased to wonder where Blair, an admitted virgin, had learned the intricacies of anal sex. Probably from the Internet, he thought affectionately.

His breath caught in his throat as Blair shifted, hitting his prostate with firm pressure. He felt the pressure withdraw, then it was back with a vengeance. Howling Blair's name, he came, ejaculating hot semen over Sandburg's hand and his own belly.

Blair felt the hot channel engulfing him contract as Jim called out his name, his orgasm washing over him. The pulsing squeezes brought Blair to the brink, and soon he felt himself tumbling over, his voice blending with his lover's as their passions peaked, then began inevitably to ebb.

Collapsing on top of Jim, Blair let the larger man take his full weight. He felt so relaxed, so completed, so very very content. "Was it good?" he asked sleepily.

"Oh yeah, Babe," Jim murmured, sounding thoroughly satiated.

Blair rested his head on Jim's shoulder, wrapping protective arms around his lover. "Happy Valentine's Day," he whispered, closing his eyes contentedly.

Post Script:

Blair's recipes came from "Intercourses: an aphrodisiac cookbook" [sic] by Martha Hopkins and Randall Lockridge, published by Terrace Publishing, c. 1997, and available through Amazon.com. Quoted material is from the same book.

Honey-glazed Salmon -- pg. 38

2 6-ounce salmon fillets
salt and pepper to taste
2 teaspoons honey
2 teaspoons chopped basil

Rinse the salmon and pat dry. Place, skin-side down, in a greased baking dish. Season with salt and pepper. Coat with honey and top with the basil. Bake at 350 degrees for 15 minutes or until done (about 10 minutes per inch of thickness).

Chocolate Cake Dressed in Berries -- pg. 56

1/2 cup toasted almonds, finely chopped
3 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
1/3 cup butter
1/2 cup sugar
2 tablespoons brown sugar
2 eggs
1/2 teaspoon vanilla
1/4 cup chopped fresh strawberries
1/4 cup strawberry preserves
2 tablespoons heavy cream
3 ounces semi-sweet chocolate chips
Strawberries for garnish

Combine the almonds and cocoa powder in a small bowl. Cream the butter and sugars in a bowl until fluffy. Beat in the eggs and the vanilla. Fold in the almond mixture, then the fresh strawberries. Spoon mixture into a greased 8-inch springform pan. Bake at 350 degrees for 35 to 45 minutes or until cake tests done. Cool completely. Remove from the pan.

Spread with the strawberry preserves. Bring cream to a boil in a small saucepan. Remove from heat and add chocolate chips. Stir until smooth; cool for 5 minutes. Pour over top of cake (let drizzle down the sides). Garnish with fresh strawberries, if desired.

MASSAGE OILS -- pg. 127:

Yummy Yummy Juicy Warm--

To 1 ounce jojoba oil, add
21 drops sandalwood
6 drops ylang-ylang
5 drops steam-distilled lime

The Cerebral Oil of Good Feeling--

To 1 ounce jojoba oil, add
13 drops francensence [sic]
6 drops patchouli
5 drops steam-distilled lime

Relieve Anxiety, Restore Balance--

To 1 ounce jojoba oil, add
6 drops geranium
6 drops clary sage
6 drops ylang-ylang

Sultry-sweet Aphrodisiac Oil--

To 1 ounce jojoba oil, add
3 drops jasmine
34 drops sandalwood

The Ingredients--

"Asparagus: These stately stalks first received their aphrodisiac status from the Doctrine of Signatures. Also known as the Law of Similarities, the theory says that if one thing looks like or is reminiscent of another, then it will improve or aid that which it looks like. So if food looks sexual, the the Doctrine of Signatures says it is meant to improve or aid sex."

"Artichokes: This aphrodisiac, like many lovers, plays hard to get (which, like many suitors, just makes one want it more).

"Basil: Considered the royal herb of the Greeks and a sacred herb in India, the alluring power of basil has been used for centuries to keep wandering eyes focused homeward. Haitian lore claims basil come from Erzulie, their goddess of love."

"Chocolate: Obviously a tried-and-true staple for lovers, chocolate now has backing from the scientific community. Besides the jolt of caffeine served up in a piece of chocolate, this savory candy also contains PEA, or phenylethylamine, the very same molecule that courses through the veins of one who is in love. Combine our internal stores of this natural amphetamine with chocolate, and one only heightens that giddy sensation known as love."

"Honey: From the 'Kama Sutra' to the 'Perfumed Garden' to the 'Bible,' honey has been connected with love, sex and sensuality extraordinaire since the beginning of time. In the 5th century B.C., Hippocrates prescribed it for sexual vigor."

"Rosemary: Apparently it plays on humans' keen 'scent memory'--our 'strongest tie to most emotional experiences,' according to Cynthia Watson in 'Love Potions.' In theory, if the scent of rosemary is present during a particularly amorous event, future hints of rosemary's heady bouquet will hearken [sic] one's lover back to the pleasing affair. If executed properly, one may eventually evoke a Pavlovian 'call to love' with a mere waft of it in the air."

"Strawberries: These fruits, rivaled only by the smooth cherry in innate sensuality, come as the harbinger of summertime. Not a bad choice for an evening of seduction...."

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