Title: The Beauty And His Beast

Author/pseudonym: Cathy Roberts

Email address: huntersglenn@yahoo.com

Rating: NC-17

Status: Completed

Series: 1/3

Pairing: Luka Kovac/John Carter

Date: June 23, 2001 (first posted October 20, 2000)

Archive: Okay for WWOMB, others please ask first

Category: "E.R."

Disclaimer: "ER" and all its characters belong to Warner Bros. No infringement of their copyright is intended. This story was written for the enjoyment of "ER" fans everywhere, and may be downloaded for your own pleasure.

Summary: This was inspired by the many versions of the famous fairy tale "Beauty And The Beast". I located a web site that holds a lot of fairy tales, including several versions of this classic. The URL is: http://www.pitt.edu/~dash/folktexts.html . Needless to say, this isn't the Disney version!

By Cathy Roberts
(huntersglenn@yahoo.com)

Once upon a time in a town by the sea, lived a man with three sons. Luck had made Donald a fortune as a merchant, and luck had given him a beautiful wife and three strong sons. Donald and Angela had fallen madly in love at first sight and she had been the joy of his life, as he was hers. Their oldest son, Robert, was a fireball with red hair and a quick temper. Mark, the middle son, was fair of skin and blonde. The youngest son was named Luka and he was tall like Mark, intense like Robert, and he had his mother's beauty, with thick dark hair and hazel eyes that would turn a dark emerald green when he was overcome with emotion. Like his mother, he was kind and generous, and he clearly adored his older brothers. Unfortunately, his brothers did not adore him. They looked upon Luka with cold eyes, not sure what to make of a child who looked upon the world with intense eyes. But, the indifference of his brothers was unnoticed by Luka as long as his mother was alive. She gave her love freely to all her children, not choosing favorites.

One day, when Luka was still in diapers, Angela went to the fields outside of the city to pick flowers. A bee stung her and within minutes she lay dead upon the yellow blossoms. Donald gave her a grand funeral, and the entire town mourned the loss of such a fine woman. Donald hired a woman to take care of his sons and he turned his attentions to his business, not caring for life now that his beauty was dead and buried.

Without his father to guide him further, Robert grew into an ambitious young man, determined to win his own fortune at any cost and by using any means. He was not quite a cruel man, but his heart was cold and his eyes devious.

Mark grew into a man who easily took the side of the strongest in an argument, and he hated having to make decisions. He would say nay or yea, depending on which way the wind blew. He wanted to be successful, but he didn't want to have to work hard to be rich. He was content enough to enjoy the bounty of his father's hard work.

Luka grew into a quiet young man, starved for love and affection, for after his mother died, the nanny would not him to play with his brothers or allow him to see his father, telling the child that Donald was a busy man and should never be bothered. No one paid much attention to Luka as he grew up and he found company and solace in the fine library in his father's house. Books became everything to him, a means to visit new and different worlds where love was felt and celebrated. During this time he also grew into a fine young man whose beauty was noted by all around. His brothers were jealous of the looks that Luka received from the town maidens and from some of the men in town as well. They took to teasing him, calling him "Beauty" and telling him that no one would ever love him for himself. They would only want him for his money or his beauty and for no other reason. And Luka grew up believing what he was told.

One day Donald exited his study and informed his sons that he was now a poor man. Several ships had sunk in the treacherous seas and all had been lost. Robert smirked at his father's ill fortune as he had some money of his own tucked away. Mark had been aghast at the news, as he was totally dependent on his father for his upkeep. Only Luka seemed unmoved by the news, except for expressing his wish that they could do something to help the families of the dead sailors. Donald took a good hard look at his youngest son and saw the shadow of the woman he still loved and his heart melted a bit. He had neglected his children, Luka most of all, so he released the nanny from duty, sold his house and removed the family to a small farm he owned out in the countryside. Once settled there, Donald began to rebuild his business while leaving the upkeep of the small farm to his sons. Robert cared nothing for farming and he closeted himself in his room, going over his own financial books and planning what he would do with his riches.

Mark had blisters on his hands the first day he chopped wood and he cried from the pain, declaring that he wasn't cut out for work such as that. Luka dutifully cleansed and bandaged Mark's hands and agreed with him that he should take it easy. Neither Mark nor Robert would attempt to cook or keep the cottage clean, so Luka did all the chores on the farm.

Not that Luka minded. He was quite happy to help out and basked in the praise his father gave him when a meal was prepared properly and all was running smoothly on the small farm.

One day a messenger arrived at the farm and he and Donald were locked away in Donald's study for hours. When the messenger left, Donald cheerfully told his sons that the cargo from one of the ships had been found. He would need to go to inspect the goods, but initial reports indicated that the contents were unharmed. They were no longer poor. Robert and Mark were delighted with the news and each one his made plans for the money. Robert wanted to invest his share and watch his wealth grow. Mark wanted new clothing. When asked, Luka only said that he had everything he wanted right there and didn't need more.

On the day that Donald was to leave for the coast, he gathered his sons around him. He told Robert that he was in charge and needed to watch carefully over his brothers. He then asked each of them what present they wanted him to bring back. Robert, feeling frivolous since the present wasn't being paid for with his money, asked for silk shirts, knowing that silk would last and that he would be spared the expense of buying shirts for himself. Mark asked for a new suit of clothes, complete with boots, hat and kerchief. Luka merely shrugged and told his father that he could think of nothing he wanted. Donald pressed Luka for an answer, telling him that there had to be something that he wanted something that couldn't be bought or found in town. Luka, wanting to please his father, blurted out that he would like a rose that could be rooted in their garden, as there were no rose bushes to be found where they lived. Donald thought that a rather odd request, but then, Luka was a rather odd young man, so he nodded and then rode away. He looked back once and saw that Robert and Mark were talking with Luka, probably giving him a talk about how he shouldn't worry about their father leaving. In truth, they were teasing him about asking for a flower.

Donald's journey home was a hard one made with a heavy heart. He had arrived in the town to find that he owed taxes on what was found. When all was paid in full, he was left with barely enough money to pay for his lodgings there. There was no way he could bring back what his sons had wanted. Along the way, it began to snow, so Donald took another route, one that took him along less used roads, roads which were close to being reclaimed by the surrounding forest. Soon he found himself in an even darker part of the woods, with the snow seeming to follow him. Shivering, Donald rode on until he found himself in the courtyard of a castle. Through the snow he could make out a building that had, at one time, been well kept. Now it looked run down and deserted. Donald put his horse in what remained of the stables, then ventured inside. A lone fire burned in the main hall, but a small table sat in front of the fire, all set for dinner, with freshly prepared food heaped upon it. Donald called out, but no one answered him. His stomach began to growl, reminding him that he had not eaten since the day before. Giving in to his body's demands, Donald ate the dinner and drank the wine, remembering to loudly thank his unseen host when he was finished. Realizing he was tired, Donald yawned, but his eyes flew wide open as candles sprung to life, illuminating a grand and sweeping stairway. Donald walked upstairs, with the lighting leading him to a fine room where another fire burned in the hearth. He found nightclothes laid out on the bed and Donald changed, then crawled under the warmed covers to sleep. When the morning came, he arose and went to the window to see what was there. Below him he saw a fine summer garden, no snow lay upon the ground and all kinds of flowers were in bloom, most especially roses. Turning away from the window, Donald saw that clean clothes in his size were laid upon the bed. Loudly thanking his host, or hosts, Donald changed and went downstairs, finding a fine breakfast on the table. He ate, then went outside.

While he had intended to saddle his horse and ride home, Donald's feet took him into the garden that he had seen from his room. From the ground, the garden was even more magnificent. Fountains bubbled; the immaculate beds were full of every kind of flower imaginable and some that weren't, and marble and granite statues were strategically placed throughout the garden, giving it a grand, yet peaceful feeling. A thought occurred to Donald then. He couldn't buy what Robert and Mark had wanted, but he could bring back a rose for Luka. Reaching out, he gently chose a strong cane and cut it at the base, knowing that Luka could make this root take and grow into a fine rose bush.

A roaring filled his ears and Donald turned to see a ferocious beast storming down the path at him. Trembling, Donald found his mouth go dry as the beast stopped in front of him.

"I gave you food and a bed to sleep in and you repay my kindness by stealing my roses?" The beast roared at him.

"I...I am sorry, my lord. It is a gift for my son."

"Don't call me 'lord', merchant. For stealing from me, you shall meet your death."

"Oh, please, beast, don't kill me. My sons are awaiting my return and will not know what has happened to me. Please let me go home to say farewell to them."

The beast pondered Donald's request, then asked, "You have sons? How many?"

"I have three sons, beast. It was my youngest one, Luka, who requested a rose that he could root."

"And is this son a virgin in every way?"

"Yes, beast, he is untouched. The maids and men of the town call him "beauty" but he cares not for their endearments. Please give me a chance to say goodbye. I give you my word that I will return to accept your punishment."

"Hmm," the beast said. "You can keep your life provided that you allow your youngest son to take your place here."

Donald felt himself shaking once more. "I cannot do that, beast. I will not ask my son to die in my place."

"Did I say he was to die, merchant? I am lonely and seek companionship. It will be pleasant to have a beauty to look upon. Bring him to take your place and there is no debt to repay. Take the rose and go, but I will have Luka here before seven days have passed or your life is forfeit."

Donald bowed his head. "I understand, beast."

Then the beast ran off and Donald went to the stables. His horse was already saddled and ready to go. With a heavy heart and the rose cane clenched tightly in his hand, Donald continued on his way home. He would rather die than have Luka imprisoned with that beast and he spent his time riding going over all the arrangements that he would need to attend to before dying.

When Donald alit from his horse at the door of the cottage, he found himself surrounded by his sons. Robert and Mark asked for their gifts while Luka asked him if he had a safe journey. Donald broke into tears then, seeing that his son was so kindhearted. He handed the rose cane to Luka, telling him to tend to it carefully. Luka thanked his father, then went to prepare it for planting. When Luka returned to the cottage, he found his father seated in his favorite chair telling Robert and Mark about his troubles with the cargo.

"There was no money left over?" Robert asked.

"I fear not, Robert. If I had known about the taxes beforehand then I would have chosen cheaper lodgings, but, alas, I did not. I am afraid that the only gift I could bring back was the rose and that gift has cost me my life."

"No, Father," Luka exclaimed from the doorway. "No gift can ask that price."

"Your gift has, my son." Donald smiled warmly at Luka. "Fret not over it, for it is not your fault. I chose to cut the cane. But the owner of the rose bush had not given me permission and he wants me to die for stealing from him."

"Father, please, let me go and take your place." Luka got on his knees in front of his father, his eyes pleading. "It was for me that you cut the rose so it is only right that I be the one to be punished."

"Our beauty is finally right about something," Mark said. "Let him take the blame, Father."

Robert nodded as he thought of how much more money there would be if there were one less mouth to feed in the household. He didn't bother thinking about who would do all the cooking, cleaning and farming once Luka was gone.

"I cannot," Donald said. He reached out and tenderly caressed Luka's cheek. "You look so much like your mother, Luka. Your brother's are right about one thing, you are a beauty. A rare flower to be cherished and not wasted upon the company of a beast."

Luka looked confused. "I thought that he wanted you to die?"

"He does. But, he said that I could keep my life if I brought you there to be his companion."

"Then there is nothing else to do, Father, but to let me go. What are the measure of my days if your life can be spared?"

"Luka is quite right, Father. If he won't be put to death by this beast, then there is no reason for him to not go there to live." Mark said, hiding a grin. With Luka gone, then there would be more money available to be spent on him.

"Please, Father," Luka plead once more. And this time his pleas moved Donald to agree.

"We will leave tomorrow for the castle of the beast. Pack your things tonight, Luka. I made a promise to return by a certain day and I will not break my word."

"Yes, Father."

Luka got to his feet and his father hugged him tightly, reluctant to let him leave but knowing it was for the best. After supper, Luka went to his attic room to pack his few belongings. Going over his things, he chose but a few changes of clothing, a small painted portrait of his mother and father and as many of his books as he could fit into the bag. Then he crawled into bed to attempt to sleep. While he was sad over the fact that he was leaving his family, he was also excited about seeing new places and living in a castle. Perhaps the beast liked to read? Luka thought. If so, then they could have interesting conversations about a variety of topics. Luka had realized a long time ago that he couldn't talk about his books with Robert or Mark. If it didn't involve money then Robert didn't want to hear about it and if it didn't involve him, then Mark didn't want to hear about it.

The ride to the castle was a short one for Donald and a long one for Luka. Luka was still curious about what would happen once he reached the castle while Donald was already mourning the loss of his son. They rode into the silent courtyard of the castle and dismounted. Leaving their horses out front, they entered the castle and Luka carried his few belongings inside with him.

"It's so quiet here," Luka said to his father.

"The beast appears to live alone. I never saw another soul while I was here, even though someone or something did prepare meals for me."

"Do you not believe in magic?" growled a voice from behind Donald.

Donald and Luka quickly turned to face the beast. As he met the beast's stare, Luka shivered but once. Yes, the beast was ugly and looked ferocious, but despite his dark brown fur and animal characteristics, he looked much like a man.

"I am Luka," he introduced himself.

"You will do." The beast turned to Donald. "You will find a trunk on the other horse. It is filled with gold and other earthly delights. Use it wisely."

Donald bowed his thanks even as he felt that he was being paid for the life of his son. He then turned to Luka. "Be strong and brave, Luka. And above all else, remember that I love you."

"I love you, too, Father. And Robert and Mark as well. I will miss all of you."

They hugged each other tightly and then a warning growl from the beast let Donald know that he should go. He hurried outside and found the trunk as the beast had said. Getting onto his own horse, he sadly led Luka's horse home.

"Where should I put my things?" Luka asked, holding up his bag.

"You have your pick of rooms, Master Luka, for you are now the Master here. All that you wish shall be yours. All you have to do is give a voice to your wants and desires and the castle and I will do all we can to fulfill them. I am merely your servant."

"I think this is the first time that a servant has ever been the jailer." Luka joked. The beast merely stared back at him. "Do you have a name?"

"You can call me 'Beast'. It's as good a name as any."

Luka nodded. "Very well, Beast. Then my first wish is that you shall call me Luka. I am no one's Master, not man nor beast."

The beast bowed. "As you wish. I will leave you alone now. Feel free to look around while choosing your room. When you are ready to eat, just say so and it will be prepared and waiting for you when you come down to the dining room."

Luka nodded. "I will remember that. Will you not show me around?"

The beast growled as he shook his head. "Not now, Luka. It is time for me to...feed." With a roar the beast dropped to all fours and ran out of the room.

"Maybe he is a bit more dangerous than I thought," Luka said. He headed for the stairs, admiring the portraits of dead kings that graced the wall beside the stairway and Luka wondered what had happened to them all. Perhaps there would be books that could answer that question for him. As Luka opened the doors of rooms long unused, he found none to his liking. He only had two rooms left to look at when he found a room that he could easily live with. When he entered the suite of rooms, he walked into a small library, then into the bedroom proper. A dressing room was behind the door to the left and a bathing room through the door to the right. Luka nodded and placed his bag on the bed. He would unpack later. Right now there was more of the castle to explore.

Luka stepped out into the hallway and pulled his door closed. A flash of light above his head startled him and he looked up to see the words "Luka's apartments" now etched into the wood above his door. "Magic indeed," he murmured. Then he continued his explorations.

The Beauty And His Beast 2

Luka had been all over the castle and even outside to the garden. It was now getting dark and his stomach growled loudly at him. At first, he thought that Beast had returned, but the slight ache that accompanied the next growl told him that he was simply hungry. Luka made his way to the dining room and found to his delight that the table was already loaded with all of his favorite foods, even though he had only thought about what he wanted. He sat down and dug in with gusto. The food may have been produced by magic, but it was delicious. He was nearly done when Beast returned.

"May I come in?" Beast asked from the doorway.

"Of course. This is your castle, after all."

Beast shook his head. "You are the master here, Luka. If you tell me to go, then I will go."

"And yet you will not free me?"

"You are here because your father allowed you to trade places with him."

"I agreed to come here because I love my father and didn't want him to die. You didn't give him much of a choice, Beast."

"I was not the one who stole, Luka." Beast sat in the chair across the table from Luka. "Was your meal satisfactory?"

"It was delicious, beast. Did someone prepare it?"

"The castle prepared it. Anything you wish for, the castle will give you."

"Anything?" Luka asked with a smile.

"Anything," Beast assured him.

"I will try to not abuse that." Luka smiled and was pleased to see what appeared to be a smile on Beast's face.

"So, Luka, how do you like the castle? Are your rooms satisfactory?"

"My rooms are fine. Thank you, or rather, thank you, Castle, for the library. I love to read."

"There have always been many books here. Reading was a favorite past-time for me."

"You don't read any more?"

Beast held up his paws. "I can't turn pages with these. I tried and ended up tearing the pages. I can manage most things, but not turning the pages of a book," he sadly replied.

"Then I shall read to you, Beast. Would you like that?"

Luka could have sworn that beast smiled once more as he heard that question. "Yes, Luka. I would like that."

They were quiet for a bit as Luka finished his desert. He finally set the fork aside and carefully wiped his face and hands. "Shall we start tonight? I saw some very interesting titles in the main library."

"As you wish, Luka."

"Do you have a preference, Beast?"

"Anything you choose will be fine with me," Beast replied. He got up and followed Luka to the library. As they walked down the main hallway the lamps on the wall would light up to illuminate their way while the ones behind them would go out. Luka paused more than once to watch that happen, feeling a fascination for the process.

"How efficient. Why waste lamp oil when no one is in a room?" Luka observed.

"The castle would leave them all lit if you preferred it that way," Beast informed him.

"So the castle knows how I feel and what I want?" Luka wasn't sure he could believe that, even though dinner had been prepared without him actually asking for any of those dishes.

"Has it not proved that to you so far?"

They had reached the library and the doors opened before them. When they walked in, the room was ablaze with light and a fire burned invitingly in the fireplace.

Beast stretched out on the rug before the fire as Luka went to the shelves to choose a book. When Luka returned, he seated himself in a chair. He had been tempted to stretch out in front of the fire as well, but he wasn't quite sure what to expect from Beast and he felt that he should take the time to get to know his...whatever it was that Beast was, better. Was he his captor? Captors didn't give their prisoners free reign of their prison. And yet, Luka knew he was not allowed to leave the castle and its grounds. Beast certainly wasn't his friend, not yet, anyway. And even though he was an animal, he definitely wasn't a pet. Pets didn't come that big, and they didn't think and talk or have feelings. All of which Beast did.

"Beast?"

"Yes, Luka?"

"Why am I here?"

Beast raised his head and looked carefully at Luka. After another moment had passed in silence, he answered. "Because you wanted to read a book to me."

"You know that isn't what I meant, Beast."

Beast nodded, but instead of answering he turned his head toward the fire and laying it down on the rug. Luka knew that he wasn't going to get a different answer from Beast tonight. Perhaps like himself, Beast didn't know if he could trust him. After all, they barely knew each other.

Luka opened the book and turned to the first page, beginning to read, "The seduction of the unwary is a task seldom undertaken without a great deal of prior thought..."

************************

Luka snuggled under his warm blankets. His throat was still slightly sore from reading out loud for nearly two hours, but he had not wanted to stop reading. It had been Beast who had made him stop, promising that he would get to read to him once again tomorrow after dinner. Beast even walked him to his room, stopping at the door and refusing to enter.

"These are your private rooms, Luka. It would not be right for me to enter."

"I really wouldn't mind, Beast."

Beast shook his head, his mane of hair fluffing out as he did so. Luka's hands itched with a desire to run his fingers through Beast's fur and he made a mental note to himself to ask if he could brush out Beast's coat. It certainly needed it. A bath wouldn't be completely out of the question either, even though Beast didn't smell any worse than any of the animals that had been on the farm. Still, Beast was manlike, and men bathed regularly. Or at least, Luka bathed regularly.

"Luka, would you marry me?" Beast suddenly asked.

Luka blinked. "Marry you?" He knew that he was alive only because Beast had desired his company, but he couldn't lie to him. "No, Beast, I could never marry you. I don't love you. I sense that we could become friends, but I don't see love there."

Beast gazed long at him then nodded. "So be it. Good night, Luka." Beast bowed, then headed off down the hallway.

Luka watched him go, then went into his apartments. He felt bad about hurting Beast's feelings, but he felt it best to not start out things by lying. He really did want to become friends with Beast. He had not had many friends back home and he knew that Beast had none. Thinking about home had brought tears to Luka's eyes and he wished that he could see the farm and know how his family was doing.

Luka was startled when he walked into his bedroom and instead of seeing his reflection in the mirror he was the farm and cottage. He saw his father riding up and his brothers greeting him. His father appeared sad, but not his brothers. The image wavered and then Luka was looking at himself. "Thank you," he whispered.

Luka shook his head, trying to get rid of his sad thoughts. He wanted to get a good night's sleep, even if he wasn't expected to work in the castle. He wanted to walk through the gardens before breakfast, maybe even search out Beast so they could walk through them together. With a smile on his face, Luka fell asleep.

*****************

There had been no sign of Beast, even though Luka pointedly told the castle that he wanted to walk with Beast. So, Luka ended up in the garden alone, thinking that the castle could meet not all of his wishes. Feeling melancholy for the first time since his arrival, Luka wandered aimlessly down the paths, not even seeing the flowers and trees around him. When he finally came to a stop, he saw that he was standing by a familiar looking rose bush. Close examination of the bush revealed that a stem had been cut from it. This was the bush that his father had cut. Luka swallowed hard, willing himself to not cry over his predicament. Of all the things he had to ask for, why had it been a rose? And why had his father not asked permission to cut the flower? If he had, then Luka would be home where he belonged and not alone in an empty castle. A single tear escaped and Luka angrily wiped it away. Rage surged through his veins and he began to attack the rose bush, not even noticing when the thorns pierced his skin. It wasn't until the bush was completely destroyed that Luka began to feel any pain. He stood in the flowerbed, surrounded by crushed rose petals and mangled canes, bleeding and crying. Luka sank to his knees, his head in his hands as he sobbed. He wasn't sure how long he cried, but when he finally got to his feet he saw Beast standing on the path, quietly watching him. And that seemed to anger Luka even more. If Beast had been there to walk with him, then none of this would have happened.

"Go away, Beast. I would prefer to not look at your ugliness today," Luka snapped.

Beast bent his head. "As you desire, Luka." Then he dropped to all fours and ran off.

Despite his anger, Luka couldn't help but feel admiration over how graceful Beast looked as he ran, and he immediately regretted his words. His heart heavy, Luka returned to his rooms to clean up. Once again, the castle anticipated his needs. He had clean water and soap waiting for him, and bandages as well. Once he was clean, Luka asked for breakfast and he ate that in his room, then spent the rest of the day reading.

Dinner was disappointing because Beast never showed up. Luka barely tasted his meal and when his stomach signaled that it was full, Luka headed up to bed, his head low and his heart sad. If Beast had not shown up for dinner, then be wouldn't be there for their reading appointment. Before he went to bed, he asked to see his father again. As he watched his father read at the desk in his room, Luka touched the mirror. "I miss you, Father." Donald looked up from his ledger and it seemed as if he were looking directly at Luka. Then the image wavered and disappeared, leaving Luka to look himself in the eyes. And he didn't like what he saw.

"You were mean today, Luka." He told his reflection. "You have only one companion here and you hurt his feelings. You will do better tomorrow."

*************************

The next morning, Luka ate breakfast first, then headed for the garden. He stepped outside and was pleased to see that Beast was standing by the garden wall. He walked up to him.

"Beast, I apologize for what I said yesterday. It was rude of me to speak to you like that and send you away."

"You have no need to apologize, Luka. I know that I am ugly and not fit company."

"That's not true, Beast. There are beautiful men out in the world that have ugly hearts which ruin their beauty. I can tell that your heart is good and kind."

"Kind, Luka? Have you forgotten that I sentenced your father to death? Have you forgotten that I let your father trade his life for yours? Have you forgotten all of that?"

"No, Beast. I haven't forgotten any of that. But my father was wrong to cut the rose bush without permission, and he did that because I asked for a rose as a present from him. It is my own greed that puts me here, Beast."

"You were angry yesterday, Luka." It was a calm statement of fact and not an accusation and Beast's dark brown eyes seemed gentle as he stared at Luka.

"Yes. I'm sorry about the rose bush. It was wrong for me to destroy it."

"It doesn't matter. You are the master here now, Luka. If a plant offends you, then you have the right to remove it. If you wish to plant something, ask for the plant and it will be there."

"And if I wish to plant it myself? I don't have much to do around here, so working in the garden would be nice."

"Anything you wish, Luka."

Luka grinned. "I was hoping you'd say that. What I wish for right now is to take a walk with you in the garden."

Beast bowed to him, "Lead the way, Luka."

And so began the first of many days filled with long walks and deep conversation between the two. Luka found Beast to be an intelligent and insightful companion, even if he did have to say "No." each and every night when Beast would propose to him. As for himself, Luka discovered that his homesickness was gradually disappearing and the thought of spending the rest of his days alone with Beast was not as heartbreaking as it had been at first.

The spring came, brining with it rain. Lots of rain. Walking in the garden was a thing of memory, so Luka and Beast amused themselves in the library, spending many hours reading in front of the fire. Luka had become bold and finally settled himself on the rug at Beast's side, feeling more comfortable on the floor. Beast had refrained from comment and had merely moved aside to make more room for Luka so that the man wouldn't end up with part of his body on the cold stone floor. But one morning, Luka settled upon the floor and immediately got to his feet again.

"Is something wrong, Luka?" Beast asked, looking up with concern in his eyes.

Luka wrinkled his nose. "Well, yes. Um, you smell, Beast." Luka thought a moment. "Like a cross between a wet dog and a horse."

"I am most sorry. The rainy days haven't given me much of a chance to get completely dry." Beast moved closer to the fire, but Luka retreated to the armchair.

Beast sighed as he laid his head upon his folded arms and Luka glanced up over the top of the book at him, thinking that it was finally time for that bath.

The next day dawned with clear skies and warm sunshine. Luka whistled happily as he asked for the castle to give him old clothes to wear and to put a tub of hot bath water in the garden. Today was bath day, even if Luka had to wrestle Beast into the tub in order to accomplish the task. Not that the idea of wrestling Beast was onerous. In fact, it was quite the contrary. Luka had often watched the rippling of the muscles under Beast's fur and the idea of rolling around on the ground, matching and testing each other's strengths was appealing to him.

Luka ate a quick breakfast before heading for the garden. As requested, the tub was waiting, along with various bath implements; a pitcher for rinsing, soap, towels, lots of towels, a comb and brush for after the bath. A slight tremor ran up Luka's spine as he thought about running the brush over Beast's skin and through his dark fur. This was going to be a good day, he thought.

A growl from the head of the path caught Luka's attention and he turned to face Beast.

"What is this?" Beast asked as he stepped toward Luka.

"Your bath, Beast."

"My bath?"

Luka nodded. "Remember last night? I mentioned that you were beginning to...well, smell a bit rank."

"The weather has turned dry."

"You still smell."

"I do?"

Luka nodded and Beast took a few more steps toward the tub.

"Is the water warm?"

"I told the castle to have it hot, so it should be just the right temperature by now." Luka stuck his hand into the water and splashed it around. "It feels fine to me. Get in and I'll wash you."

"I'll just soak."

Luka shook his head. "You need a good scrubbing. Get in." Luka grinned at Beast, ignoring the way that Beast was baring his teeth at him. By now he knew all of Beast's moods and this was one he could easily handle.

"I don't like water."

"You never hesitate to stay out in the rain," Luka replied.

"That's different. I have to go outside to hunt" Beast argued.

"And I have to smell you. I am the master here, Beast, remember?"

"I remember," Beast mumbled.

"Good. Get in."

A low rumble started in Beast's throat but he carefully stepped into the tub and slowly settled his body into the water.

"Be quick about this. I don't like it at all," Beast complained.

"You will." Luka dipped the pitcher into the water and then slowly poured the contents out over Beast's shoulders. Beast squirmed a bit, trying to keep his body away from the water, but Luka kept at it, aiming higher with each pass until he had all of Beast wet.

"Be still, Beast, or this will take longer than needed."

"How can I be still when you keep torturing me with water?" Beast snapped.

Luka laughed. "You're just spoilt, Beast." Luka joked as he lathered his hands and then began to rub the soap into Beast's fur. Luka slowly worked the suds into Beast's skin and he smiled as Beast's growl slowly turned into a constant purr.

"I think you're starting to like this," Luka commented.

"It feels good when you scratch right there. I can never reach that spot." Beast sighed as Luka scratched even harder at the spot right between his shoulder blades. "That's perfect, Luka. Thank you."

"You know, Beast, that if you have an itch you can't reach, then I'd be more than happy to scratch it for you?"

"I did not want to impose upon you, Luka."

"There would be no imposition. Next time, ask me."

"I'll remember that. Thank you, Luka," Beast said.

"Good." Luka continued his slow massaging of Beast's head and neck, then he carefully rinsed the fur. Another soaping followed along with more massaging and after that rinse, Luka was ready to move further down Beast's body.

"Lean forward so I can get your back," Luka instructed.

"If you massage my back like the way you did my neck, then I will certainly fall asleep on you, Luka."

"As long as you don't slide under the water, then that will be okay. I don't want you to drown, Beast."

"Truly?" Beast turned his head to look eye to eye at Luka.

Luka nodded as he looked into Beast's questioning eyes. "Truly, Beast."

"Then will you marry me, Luka?"

Luka laughed. "It's not nighttime, Beast. You never ask me that until after dinner."

"I'm feeling contrary today," Beast replied. "Well? Will you marry me?"

"No, Beast. I don't love you."

Beast turned back around, but Luka could feel his body become tense under his hands.

"I'm sorry, Beast."

"You have nothing to apologize for, Luka. I can't make you love me, and I wouldn't marry you if there was not love there."

Luka hesitated as he heard that. Was Beast saying that he was in love with him? Would Beast propose if he didn't feel love for him? Luka had been thinking that the nightly proposal was nothing more than a game they played, but what if Beast was serious? Luka's hands jerked away when Beast turned around in the tub.

"Luka, are you all right? I asked you a question but you didn't answer me."

Luka looked away from the concern in Beast's eyes. He didn't know what to think about now that he had to face the possibility that Beast loved him.

"I'm fine. I need to rinse your back now."

Beast carefully regarded Luka, then turned back around so Luka could rinse his fur.

The Beauty And His Beast 3

Beast carefully regarded Luka, then turned back around so Luka could rinse his fur.

The rest of the bath was completed quickly, yet thoroughly. It was difficult to say which was the most relieved when it ended, but both of them sighed when Luka finally stood and told Beast that he could get out of the tub.

When Beast stood, droplets of water trailed down his fur and into the tub. He looked down, then growled once more at the water before stepping out of the tub. Luka peered into the water, not surprised to see how dirty it was. He was fairly sure that Beast had never bathed in anything but rain water, and that had probably only happened when Beast wasn't quick enough to get out of the rain when it stormed.

"Hey," Luka exclaimed as he was suddenly showered with water from Beast's vigorous attempts to shake the water from his body. But Luka's indignation was soon replaced by laughter as he noted the way that Beast's fur was standing out all over his body.

Beast glowered at Luka, another growl beginning.

"I'm sorry, Beast. I should not have laughed at you. You need a good brushing, but not out here. Let's go inside to the library where it's warm."

"If I run long enough, I'll dry," Beast replied.

"Are you telling me that you're passing up on the chance to lay in front of the fire?" Luka asked with a smile. He couldn't keep from grinning as he watched Beast contemplate that idea. Finally Beast nodded and walked toward the castle, leaving Luka to follow. Luka instructed the castle to put the brushes in the library on the rug in front of the fire and to start a fire. He also told the castle to get rid of the bathtub. He never looked back to see if his orders had been carried out -- he had lived there long enough to know that they would be obeyed without question.

Luka entered the library just as Beast was settling onto the rug. The flames were high in the hearth, and as Luka walked near, he could feel the immense heat.

"I will brush you now, Beast," Luka knelt beside Beast and picked up a brush, then tried to decide where to begin. He did his best to ignore Beast's indignant stare.

"You will not brush me, Luka," Beast finally declared.

"I most certainly will. There's no one else here who can do it for you."

"It's not proper."

"Who is the master here, Beast? You or me?"

"You," Beast reluctantly acknowledged.

Luka nodded. "Exactly. So, stretch out on your stomach and I'll begin with your back. You'll like this, Beast."

"That's what you said about the bath."

"And you did like it."

"I hated it. There was water everywhere."

If Beast had been human, then Luka knew that he would be pouting. Luka shook his head and began to brush Beast, starting where his neck met his shoulders and then running the brush down the length of his body. And it was such a long body. Luka wasn't sure exactly what type of animal Beast was supposed to be. There were times when he was sure that Beast was a wolf of some type, but there were other times, like now, when Luka thought that Beast was a great cat of some sort. Wolves did not purr with contentment the way that Beast did.

As Luka ran the brush through the silky fur, his thoughts began to stray. Beast was so soft, but if Luka ran his hands over Beast's body, then he could feel the hard muscles. Luka was a virgin, but he was well read, and he was more than ready to experience the delights of the flesh. Especially since he had been living at the castle and had so many erotic books to read. There had been many nights when Luka had concocted fantasies in his mind while relieving the sexual tension that wracked his body. It seemed that during the past week, Beast had figured in those fantasies, even though Luka knew that nothing could ever happen between a man and a beast. No matter how man-like Beast might be. And yet, that wasn't keeping Beast from proposing. Suppose Luke did say 'yes'? Would there be a real wedding night? And if so, then who would be the bride and who would play the part of the bridegroom? Luka had tried to imagine himself in both roles, but the one that brought him the most pleasure was when he imagined Beast stretched out under his body, ready to be pleasured by Luka. Definitely the bridegroom, Luka thought.

"Luka, you're going to rub the skin off of my body if you don't brush somewhere else," Beast said, propping himself up on one arm to look at Luka.

Luka blinked away the wedding night image that was dancing before his eyes and turned his gaze to what he was doing. Belatedly, he realized that he had been brushing Beast in the same spot for the past five minutes. Beast rolled over to his back and Luka moved the brush to Beast's belly, gently running the brush over the skin and soft fur that he found there. Luka jerked his hand away when it brushed up against something hard and hot and he saw that Beast was very much aroused.

Luka looked to see if Beast had noticed, but the man-creature had his head down on the rug and his eyes closed. It was probably a reaction to the physical sensation of being brushed or something like that, Luka reasoned with himself. There was no way that Beast would feel something like desire for a human.

Taking no chances, Luka began to brush somewhere else, determined to avoid Beast's belly. After all, Luka didn't want to embarrass Beast. But he couldn't help but think about the fact that Beast aroused was much larger than he was. With a slight nod, Luka confirmed that he would indeed prefer to be the bridegroom. That is, if something like a marriage between them were ever to happen. Which it wouldn't, simply because he wasn't in love with Beast. Luka treasured the companionship he shared with Beast. He even considered him a friend, if a person could actually be a friend with a beast. But, love? Luka didn't think so.

****************************

The next day dawned darkly, but not with rain clouds. It was with dismay that Luka stumbled from his bed and looked out of his window to see tiny snowflakes twirling down from the sky, an early spring snowstorm. By the time Luka finished with breakfast, those tiny flakes had managed to create a substantial accumulation. With a sharp pang in his heart, Luka thought of how he had never seen the farm cottage in winter and now he wondered how it would look. Would it be bleak? Would it appear peaceful? Guilt then washed over Luka as he realized how much time had passed since he had last thought about his family. Were his brothers married by now? Were they happy? Was his father all right?

"Castle, show me my father," Luka said out loud. "Please?"

Luka looked frantically around the room, not sure what the castle would use to show him the image of his old home. His eyes finally stopped at the silver tea pot, and he saw the cottage. Snow lay clean and even around it, unbroken by foot prints of any kind. A thin stream of smoke came from the chimney and then Luka was seeing inside of the cottage. His brothers were seated in front of the fire, extending their hands toward the flames. They looked cold and miserable.

The scene then shifted to Donald's room and Luka's breath caught in his throat as he saw his father laying in his bed, pale and sickly looking. His father was ill, very ill. That much was obvious.

Luka jumped to his feet, feeling panic over the thought that his father might be dying. "Beast," Luka shouted. He needed to go home. Beast would just have to relent and let him go. After a few more shouts that brought no response, Luka went searching for Beast. He found him in the spacious entry hall, stamping his feet to get the snow from them.

Beast looked up with forlorn eyes. "It's cold out there, Luka. I don't like snow any more than I like water."

"Beast, my father is ill. He might be dying. I need to go to him. Please?"

Luka looked intently at Beast, looking for some sign in those dark eyes that Beast would take him home. They stared at each other for a long minute.

Beast finally nodded. "You can go home, Luka. I'll arrange it for you to go home tonight."

Luka smiled with relief and he clasped Beast's hand/paw in his hands. "Thank you, Beast. You don't know how much this means to me. I would go mad if my father died and I wasn't there to say good-bye to him."

"I know. It would not be your nature to stay content here while he suffers." Beast gently pulled free and turned back toward the door. "If you'll excuse me, I need to go back out."

Beast was out of the door quickly and despite his happiness at knowing he would see his father, Luka couldn't quite shake the feeling that Beast was saddened by the fact that he was leaving. He also couldn't quite shake the sadness he was feeling over leaving Beast.

***********************

It was way past dark when Beast finally returned to the castle. Luka practically pounced upon the creature when he walked through the door.

"I thought you had gone away, Beast, and forgotten that I was to go home."

"I did not forget, Luka. I told you that you would go home tonight and I meant it." Beast held out his hand/paw and Luka saw that he was holding a plain golden ring. "Put this on and go to sleep. When you awaken in the morning, you will be home. When you're ready to return here, take off the ring and put it on the table by your bed. You'll wake up the next day in your room."

Then Beast turned away, his body shaking. "But I fear that you will forget me and never return."

"No, Beast. That won't happen. I promise that I'll come back," Luka cried.

"If you don't return, Luka, then I shall die from grief."

"Just one week, Beast. All I need is one week to get my father back on his feet. I promise." Luka knew he wouldn't be able to physically turn Beast around to face him, so he walked around until they were face to face. The fur under Beast's eyes was moist and Luka was touched to know that Beast had been crying. "I promise, Beast. I will come back in a week."

Beast mutely nodded.

"Shall we go to the library to read?" Even though Luka was now anxious to be in bed for the night, he knew that his friend needed to have a few final hours alone with him.

"That would be nice, Luka," Beast replied.

"I have a new book picked out," Luka grinned. He had thought that he had exhausted the library's selection of erotica, but last night he had spied a title that he had previously overlooked. It was a rather slim volume, but when Luka had skimmed through the pages, he had been rather pleased to see that it was full of the passion shared by the two lovers who were the main characters of the book. Two men. Luka's dreams last night had been of the few passages he had taken the time to read.

Luka ended up reading the entire book to Beast, and when he finally reached the end, he saw that Beast had fallen asleep on the rug. Luka wished he could just put the book aside and curl up beside Beast, but his bed beckoned with the promise of home. Luka put the book back on the shelf, told the castle to watch over Beast for him and then he went upstairs. He quickly changed for bed, then stared at the ring on his finger. He had seen enough magic around the castle to believe it when Beast said that he would awaken at home. But, first he had to actually fall asleep. Luka was still thinking about the difficulty of that task when his eyes closed upon his bedroom.

****************

Luka sat up straight in the wooden backed chair and stretched. He looked over at his father and smiled. Donald was looking better after only two days of extra care from Luka. Luka had been right that his going home would be good for his father. The minute that Luka had stepped into his father's bedroom and Donald had laid eyes on him, he had begun to improve. Of course, getting decent meals had helped as well. Robert and Mark were poor cooks and they even seemed happy to see him. They were certainly happy enough to enjoy his cooking. Luka had been almost surprised that he remembered how to cook since he had not had to do that at the castle. But, he had, and they were all benefiting from it.

Luka smiled as he remembered how shocked his brothers had been to see him walk out of his old room. When Luka had awoken in his old room, he had discovered at the foot of his bed a trunk filled with gorgeous and expensive clothing. Luka had quickly dressed, feeling very much like a prince. He then reached in and selected clothes for his brothers, but before he could offer them to Robert and Mark, they simply disappeared. The minute that Luka thought that he wouldn't give them to them after all, the clothes reappeared. So Luka had to spend the rest of the day putting up with Robert's snide comments and Mark's jealous glances. Luka had always overlooked their petty natures, but now he couldn't deny the truth that his brothers were not nice people.

Luka still took pleasure from seeing them happy, although if he had known that while he was sitting by his father's side his brothers were scheming to find a way to keep him home. If they had to be miserable, then so should Luka. It wasn't right that he be happy living with a creature while they suffered in some humble cottage. They were the ones who deserved to live in a castle and have their every whim catered to. So, Robert and Mark made sure they praised each meal that Luka prepared. They helped out by doing simple chores, things that had gone undone ever since Luka left. They tried to talk nicely to Luka and to help him with their father. Luka began to think he was wrong about his brothers being mean, and as Donald regained his strength, Luka began to feel happy and at ease at being home.

And the days passed. First three, then four, then seven. Then ten. It was on the twelfth day that Luka was washing dishes and the light from the lamp caught on his ring. The flash of light hurt his eyes and in that instant Luka remembered his promise to Beast. And he knew that he had broken that promise. Luka quickly finished the dishes and then went to his father. His heart heavy, Luka told his father about his promise. He assured Donald that he was quite happy living with Beast and that Donald had no reason to worry himself sick over his welfare. It took a few hours, but Luka was finally able to convince his father that he was being truthful about his happiness.

As Luka settled into bed that night, he smiled as he placed the ring on the table. Tomorrow morning he would see Beast again.

When Luka opened his eyes, his face broke into a wide grin as he recognized his room. HIS ROOM!! He hurried out of bed and rushed to his closet, searching for the suit of clothes that he knew Beast liked best. Satisfied with his appearance, Luka headed downstairs, hoping that Beast would be inside the castle. But he wasn't. Luka went from room to room, but there was no sight of Beast. Luka gave up the search in the library, where he went to the window and gazed outside, wondering if Beast was out hunting for his breakfast. v With a frown on his face, Luka stared out at the snow covered garden. Why hadn't the castle kept the snow away? It would ruin the garden. As usual, the castle read his mind and the snow began to melt. As one snow drift dwindled, Luka saw that the basic shape of the drift remained. Then, his breathing nearly stopped as he recognized the drift as a distinct shape. Beast.

His Beast.

Luka ran from the room and out to the garden, falling to his knees beside the prone man-creature. A million emotions ran through Luka's heart and mind, but the one that stood out the most was that he didn't want to lose his Beast. He couldn't. He loved him too much.

He loved Beast.

Cradling Beast in his arms, Luka called out to him.

"Beast? Wake up, Beast. I'm back. I know I'm late, but I came back."

Beast slowly opened his eyes and looked up at Luka, his voice weak. "You came back?"

"I'm here now, Beast. I'm sorry I was late, but I'm here now. Please don't die." Luka was now crying.

"It doesn't matter now, Luka. With me gone, you'll be free to stay with your family. It was wrong of me to try to keep you here against your will."

"It wasn't against my will, Beast. I agreed to stay and I've been happy here. So very happy. You can't leave me."

"I'm so tired, Luka. So very tired." Beast's eyes fluttered closed and Luka shook his body.

"You have to stay awake, Beast. You have to live for me. You can't die. I love you, Beast."

As if his words had ignited the fuse of a bomb, the sky above Luka and Beast exploded into fireworks. Luka looked up with a mixture of fascination and horror at the sight above him. And when he looked down at Beast, he felt even more horror, for his Beast was gone. Instead of holding Beast, he was now holding a young man, maybe a few years younger than himself. Dark of hair and pale of skin, the man lay naked in his arms.

"No," Luka screamed, nearly dropping the man. "Castle, where's Beast? Who is this stranger?"

The man's eyes slowly opened there was no mistaking those chocolate brown eyes that were unable to hide even the merest hint of emotion.

"Beast?" Luka shakily asked.

The man nodded. "I was Beast. But, I'm back to being myself now."

"And who are you?"

"My name is John and I am the Prince of this land. All you see around you, I ruled at one time." John shivered then and Luka got to his feet, still holding Beast -- John --- in his arms. He carried him into the castle and to the library, settling them both on the rug and asking for the castle to kindle the wood in the fireplace. While the flames caught hold there, Luka asked for a large blanket and he wrapped it around them both. Once John's shivers subsided, he told Luka his story.

"I was arrogant, Luka. So very arrogant. I had surrounded myself with beauty, thinking that it was a reflection of my self. One day an old hag appeared in the forecourt, asking for shelter from the night. I informed her that she was not welcome here. I was having a ball that night and didn't desire to have anyone ugly near my guests. The minute the words left my mouth, she began to change and I found myself facing the most beautiful woman I had ever seen. A beauty who also happened to be a witch. She cursed me then, telling me that I would be doomed to be an ugly beast forever unless I could find someone willing to look past my beastly exterior and love me for who and what I truly was. That was such a long time ago, Luka. I had almost given up hope of finding someone to love me and then one day your father stumbled into the castle. And then you were here. I couldn't help but love you, and I prayed that you would come to love me in return. I knew it was hopeless, and I wanted so much to tell you that I had once been a man. But, I couldn't. That was also a part of the curse -- that I could never tell anyone what had happened."

"And then you thought I had forgotten about you?" Luka gently asked, his heart breaking for the anguish that John had endured though the years.

A tear slipped down John's cheek. "You said you would be gone for only a week. You were gone for longer than that. I asked to see you and the castle obliged me. You were so happy, Luka. Your whole family was happy. I knew then that you wouldn't return to me. So, I went out to the garden, to a place where we had spent many happy moments. I didn't want to live without you."

"I didn't forget about you, Bea...John." They both grinned. "Calling you John will take some getting used to, you know?" Then Luka looked serious. "I never forgot about you. I would never forget you."

"Say it again," John whispered.

"I love you," Luka softly said. Then more firmly, "I love you." He bent his head to capture John's lips, savoring the contact. When the kiss ended, they both were shivering, but not from cold.

"So, you wanted a virgin, huh?"

John's cheeks reddened. "That was a part of the curse as well. The person who loved me had to be untouched by man. And you are."

Luka nodded, then let his hand roam over the warm body in his lap. "I think that you are as well."

John gasped as Luka's hand encircled him, and he nodded. "I never had a lover...before now."

"I will love you well, John. I promise."

John looked up at Luka and smiled. "I know you will. So, Luka, will you marry me?"

Luka laughed. "Yes, my Beast, I will marry you. And on our wedding night I will take you as mine."

"And until then?"

"Until then I'll drive you wild with longing for me. But I think that the castle can manage to put a wedding together rather quickly. My father has regained enough strength to attend a wedding, so he shall be here. How does the day after tomorrow sound?"

John grinned. "Like two days too late. I have no friends or family to invite, Luka. My family died when I was young."

"My poor Beast, left all alone. You'll never be alone again, this I promise you."

Two days later a wedding was held in the garden of the castle. The sun shone brightly and the flowers nearly glowed in the golden light. Donald beamed with happiness as he watched Luka and John promised themselves to each other. Robert and Mark wore pretend smiles, but there were still jealous of Luka, especially now that he had John.

As the wedding party walked back toward the castle, a shimmering cut through the air and a woman with breathtaking beauty stood before them. It was the witch that had placed the curse upon John. She smiled at him now, then turned her smile to Luka.

"I am glad that the two of you have found happiness and love with each other. It is richly deserved. And you," she looked at Donald, "Should be proud to have a son such as Luka."

Then she turned her gaze to Robert and Mark. "But the two of you are miserable excuses for brothers. You plotted to keep Luka from here, not caring who you were hurting. It nearly killed John. You were jealous because Luka was happy and you were not. You never saw that each of us is responsible for our own happiness. Your hearts are dark and wicked and you shall remain here at the castle with your brother."

Robert and Mark smiled and nodded at each other. They could easily get used to living in such a fine castle.

"Don't be too happy about that prospect. The two of you shall be turned into statues and placed in this garden. While your bodies will be made into stone, your minds will retain all reason so that you will recognize the happiness you will witness every day. Seeing Luka happy will be your penance. And if by some chance your hearts lighten, then one day you may find yourselves freed from the stone."

Before they could react, Robert and Mark found themselves flanking the pathway, their eyes looking down the path toward the castle so that every day they would see Luka and John walking in the garden.

Donald felt a momentary sadness about the plight of his sons, as did Luka, but John knew that the witch had gone easy on them.

Luka looked at his father, "At least we'll always know where they are, and that they are safe here."

"There is that to be grateful for," Donald agreed.

The witch spoke directly to John and Luka. "The two of you will have many years of happiness ahead of you. I will let you keep the magical properties of the castle so that you won't have servants interrupting your privacy. But, if at any time you desire more human companionship, say so, and the castle will go back to being a mere building."

"Thank you," John said.

"Yes, thank you," Luka said. "We will try to not abuse your generosity."

"All I ask is that you continue to give shelter to any who are caught out in the elements."

"We will. And we will share everything we have with those strangers," John said.

The witch smiled and nodded. With the prince restored to human form and his heart changed for the better, her work there was done. She would drop back by in another fifteen or twenty years to check on the brothers, but she didn't feel too hopeful about them having a change of heart the way John had. With no warning, she disappeared.

"Well. This has been quite a day," Donald said.

John and Luka nodded. Then Luka turned to his father, "I think it's time for the wedding dinner, don't you? What would you like to eat, Father?"

"Anything you choose will be fine with me, Luka," Donald replied. "What would you like, John?"

"Anything that requires a utensil," John replied.

"He likes being able to easily use his hands and fingers once again," Luka explained. "All of those years using only paws has made him appreciate fine table manners. Now, if I could only get him to give up his taste for raw meat, then our meals would be a bit more pleasant."

Donald laughed at Luka's joke, not seeing by the look that passed between John and Luka that Luka wasn't joking.

Dinner was a sumptuous affair that left the three men happily stuffed. It didn't escape Donald's notice that John and Luka couldn't keep their eyes off of each other or the clock. He knew they were anxious to consummate their marriage. Hiding a grin, he got to his feet.

"I'm full and more than ready for bed. I picked out a room already, so you don't need to show me all of them. It's a nice room, all the way at the other end of the hall from your room, Luka."

Luka grinned. "I'm sure you'll sleep soundly, Father. It's always quiet at that end of the castle."

"I would imagine so. Goodnight, Luka." Donald hugged Luka and gave him a kiss on the cheek, then he did the same with John. "Good night, my new son. I will be very happy with you in our family." And then Donald was on his way upstairs.

"So, husband, are you ready to experience the marriage bed?" Luka asked.

"I've been ready for that, Luka. But, you know what I miss?"

"No." Luka wasn't sure what John was going to say. He thought they both had been looking forward to becoming one.

John grinned. "My bedtime stories. Are you going to read to me tonight, Luka?"

Luka laughed. "I think I'll pass on the reading tonight, but I will tell you a story, John. A story about two men who found happiness in each other's arms."

"Well, the sooner we get to your room, the sooner you can begin the story." John stood and waited for Luka.

"It's your room as well now, John." Luka walked to his side and took his hand in both of his own. "And the story has already started."

Hand in hand, they headed up the stairs and to the beginning of a new story with a very happy ending. Needless to say, they lived happily ever after, proving that if a person possessed a pure heart and a kind soul, then all things were possible.

The End.