Primeval fic: Differences Of Opinion
Sep. 30th, 2011 10:40 pm![[personal profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/user.png){kind=small}
knitekatTitle: Differences Of Opinion
Author: knitekat
Word Count: 6270
Characters: Bailey (OC), Hilary Becker, Nick Cutter, Finn (OC), Christine Johnson, James Lester, Abby Maitland, Monty, Tom Ryan, Connor Temple, Lorraine Wickes.
Pairing: James Lester/Nick Cutter
Rating: 18
Disclaimer: Primeval belongs to Impossible Pictures. Certainly not me. Writing for fun and will replace. Several of the OCs belong to Fred.
A/N: Part of my Under The Moonlight wolfverse. Follows on from The Call Of The Moon. Thanks go to the wonderful Fred for the beta, all remaining mistakes are mine.
I strode out of the meeting in a foul mood. Didn't the bloody minister realise he was risking people's lives? I sighed. Of course he didn't, he was so bloody mesmerized by Christine that he'd do anything for her mouth on him. My lips twitched as I wondered if she still spat. Although, somehow I doubted he'd approve of that. That thought put me in a slightly better mood and I paused to consider the meeting. I had no doubt that Christine had influenced the minister into arranging it, all as part of her latest attempt to gain control of the ARC.
I found myself again wondering why I had ever thought getting involved with Christine was a good idea. We had met at a work function and had spent an enjoyable evening in each other's company, before we had embarked on a short but enthusiastic relationship. The sex had been good, probably as we were both far too competitive and dominant for it to be otherwise. Christine had always needed to win, I supposed that was what had attracted me to her. She was an alpha, the leader of a group, and I firmly believed that the wolf-part of me found that desirable in a mate.
I growled softly. I knew wool-gathering wouldn't solve my current predicament. I exhaled heavily as I realised I'd have to have multiple budget meetings at the ARC to see what could be trimmed without compromising safety. The minister was in search of multi-million pound savings and apparently my project came in under the 'fat-to-be-trimmed' heading, unlike Christine's pet project. Apparently her vital-to-national-security work would be receiving a budgetary increase. I would have wondered at the apparent intelligence of the minister, except that I knew Christine had sucked his brains out through his cock just before the meeting. I had smelt it in the air, the musty scent of arousal, and I had taken a quick sniff and smothered a smirk. So Christine still spat. In my opinion she missed one of the best bits of oral sex. I loved the taste of Nick as he emptied his very essence into my mouth.
“James.”
I silently groaned at Christine's voice. Just the person I least wanted to talk to. I had held the faintest of hopes that I could have slip away before she cornered me. I knew she had expected me to react badly to the minister's orders and use that reaction to convince the minister to give her more power over the ARC. I had merely nodded as the minister had given his instructions, not even raising an eyebrow at the news of Christine's budget increase. It had been amusing to watch Christine trying to conceal her annoyance from the minister. My lips twitched as I recalled my contact's comments over Christine's reaction to having her previous interference ignored. Apparently it had been a sight I'd have paid dearly to have witnessed.
I gave myself a mental shake as Christine drew closer. Any distraction could prove dangerous when dealing with her. I needed to be alert and ready for any of her little tricks. I pasted a smile on my face and turned to face her. “Christine?”
Christine looked amazingly immaculate for someone I knew had been on her knees not half-an-hour earlier. I had to concentrate not to screw up my nose up at the amount of perfume she was wearing as she stepped well inside my personal space. Did she need to put so much on... oh yes, she had been attending the same meeting as me, with the minister. Really, you'd think she'd be more subtle over her... relationship with the man. Not that I had any pity for him, he should know her reputation as well as I did.
While, at least I now knew what Christine's latest plan to take over my project was. She always had been one for scheming, plotting and playing the long game. And this time the prize was the ARC. My ARC.
“James.” Christine spoke, her cultured voice rich in superior and condescending notes breaking through my thoughts. “I thought we could have a coffee and discuss the ARC's budget.”
I had trouble keeping my lip down and glanced at my watch to shield my face from her. I was pleased that my voice was calm as I replied, “I'd love to, Christine, but I need to arrange meetings with my staff.”
“Oh, James.” Christine's laugh had my inner-wolf growling a warning. “I'd be happy to advise you on what you could cut.”
Of course you would. I thought I managed to keep my anger in check as I replied, “I wouldn't want to take you away from your own responsibilities, Christine. Don't worry, I'm sure I'll be able to sort out my own budget.”
Christine didn't look pleased with that, not if her tight smile was anything to go by. If she thought I'd let her anywhere near the internal workings of my ARC, she had another think coming. She might have managed to get her soldiers on the inside but they were more-or-less constrained. Not that I had discounted them as a potential threat and I had Ryan's men keeping an eye on them for me. I had found that a stare from Blade was worth his weight in gold when it came to dissuading Christine's soldiers. Interestingly enough, Finn had also proven adept at distracting the soldiers in his own bungling way.
“If you change your mind, James.”
I had to give it to her, Christine was nothing if not persistent. “You'll be the first person I inform,” I lied as I held out my hand and shook her's firmly. “Now, if you'll excuse me, Christine. I really do need to get back to the ARC.”
I could feel her eyes on my back as I walked out. My inner-wolf was growling almost constantly as it didn't like me having my back turned towards an enemy. I let out a breath as I climbed into my car and drove back to the ARC. I would be in need of some quality time with Nick or Monty. Pounding the treadmill in the gym would do at a pinch.
I arrived back at my office and slumped into my chair, but only for a second before I remembered my image and straightened up. I looked up at the knock on my door and smiled as Lorraine entered with a life-saving cup of tea.
“Can I get you anything else, Sir James?”
“No, thank you, Lorraine.” I bit back a groan as I recalled the minister's orders. “Forget that, Lorraine. I need you to arrange a meeting with all the department heads. Ryan included. Accept no excuses except for an anomaly alert.”
“Of course. When shall I arrange it for?”
“As soon as possible.” I sighed and rubbed my eyes. I really didn't want to face my loyal people and tell them we were losing money. Not that it was my fault, but I always felt I should be able to protect my people better.
“Nick's talk is in 30 minutes, sir. Shall I have him cancel it?”
“Fuck!” I groaned before smiling apologetically at Lorraine. “Sorry for the language, Lorraine. And, no. Nick's worked hard on his talk, please arrange the meeting for later.” I knew exactly how hard Nick had been working on his talk. I had even had bits of it read out to me as he had practised it. It appeared that I was getting an education in prehistoric life whether I wanted it or not.
“No problem, sir. I assume your meeting with the minister didn't go well?” Lorraine enquired. She always had been quick on the uptake. I was left once more with the distinct feeling that Lorraine knew more of the goings-on in the ARC than I did.
“You could say that.” I shook my head. I knew complaining about what had happened wouldn't change anything and I was too professional to indulge myself in whining. “Can you pull all our expenses for the last... hmm... six months should be enough.”
“Of course, sir.”
I had no idea how I'd run this project without the presence of the ever-efficient Lorraine to make sure everything ran smoothly. Not that she could do anything about my other problem. No matter how much I craved Nick's touch, I would not disturb his concentration before he had to give a lecture on whatever the creature of the week was to a group of rowdy soldiers. Likewise, the gym was also out as I would not have time before Nick's talk.
I smiled softly. I should spend more time with Monty as I had been neglecting him shockingly recently. I really would have to find more time to visit him, and now was an excellent time to start.
I detoured to pick up some apples and headed towards Monty's enclosure. I smiled as I watched Monty playing with his... what had Abby called it?... Oh, yes. Environment enhancement, I believe it was. He certainly looked happier in his confinement. Well, as happy as any wild creature could be in captivity. As much as I loved coming to see Monty, I would return him to his home in a shot if I could. He deserved to be free and among his own kind, not caged, imprisoned. My inner-wolf hated to see any animal locked up, even if I knew it was for the best, that there was no other option... none that I would countenance.
Monty's trunk twitched and swept back towards me and I noticed his nostrils quiver as he caught my scent. He rumbled deep in his chest and swung around to face me. His ears pricked as he trumpeted a greeting and walked over to me. I smiled as his trunk moved over my body before homing in on the bag of apples. “Yes, I know.” I patted his trunk. “You only love me for the apples.” Monty rumbled again and wrapped his trunk around me for an instant and I had the distinct feeling he was disagreeing with me.
I almost jumped when Abby's voice sounded behind me. “Should I leave you two alone?” I swung around to meet Abby's amused look as Monty continued nuzzling against me for his treat. “I wouldn't want to interrupt anything.”
I rolled my eyes at the suggestive tone Abby put into those words as she strolled out of the enclosure with a smile on her lips. It actually felt good to have her gently tease me. To be considered part of the team rather than the cold and distant presence in an office, ignored and feared. My full attention was dragged back to Monty when he rumbled and nudged me with his trunk for attention. “Good boy. I do know you like me.” I wasn't totally convinced he understood me, but I had to tell him.
“I've only time for a quick visit. At least for now.” I told Monty as I fed him his apples. He ghosted the tip of his trunk over my hair, ruffling it. “Hey. Watch the hair.” I muttered as I leaned against his bulk and allowed his scent to calm me. I breathed deeply and evenly, I might not know why Monty had that effect on me and, truthfully, I didn't care what the answer was. All that mattered was that he did.
Finally, I pulled away and gave him a final pat. “Good boy.” I glanced at my watch and cursed softly. I was going to be late. “Sorry, Monty, but I have to go.” I gave him a final tickle and hurried from his enclosure. I might be late, but hell would freeze over before I dented my image and actually ran, a determined walk would have to do.
I slipped into the conference room and found an empty seat at the back. Well, empty once I had nudged Finn into moving his bag from it. As I sat down I glanced at the notepad he was scribbling in before he twitched his wrist to hide its contents from me. I had seen enough to know what he was up to and quirked an eyebrow at him. Finn just shifted in his seat and shot a quick glance around to see if we were being watched before allowing me to see what he was writing. I smiled as it confirmed my opinion that Finn wasn't as dim as most people believed.
I settled into a more comfortable position and watched Nick give his talk to the soldiers and a few other interested souls. He was waving his hands as he spoke. He always did like to use his hands to add emphasis to whatever point he was discussing... not to mention in bed. I shook myself from my rather nice daydreams before they had an unfortunate effect on my composure and began to listen to Nick. I couldn't help my suspicious that he'd be testing me later. My lips twitched at the name of the creature he was discussing. Someone had truly named it that?
“... now, although the Bambiraptor was only the size of a chicken, don't think that all Dromaeosauridae were of similar size. The Deinonychus...”
I noticed Bailey, one of Johnson's soldiers, fidgeting in a chair two rows in front of me. Before I could admonish him to sit still and have the politeness to listen to Nick, he spoke. His bored, and I assumed somewhat louder than he meant, voice cut through the room and stopped Nick in mid-sentence. “Fuck this for a game of soldiers. Just 'cos he's Lester's blue-eyed fuck-toy doesn't...”
I only just restrained the growl that threatened to burst from my throat. As it was, my voice was soft and deadly as I spoke. “Corporal Bailey. Would you care to repeat that comment?”
The soldiers around Bailey carefully edged away as he slowly looked around to face me. His face paled and he swallowed hard as he saw me and I concluded that he would never have spoken out of turn if he'd known I was there. “No, sir.”
I raised an eyebrow at him. “See that you don't. If I hear any more comments like that again...” I allowed a low growl to enter my voice. “Well, let us just say, you won't like the consequences.” I smiled coldly at him and was pleased to see the man shiver. “Do I make myself clear?”
“Yes, sir.”
“Good.” I looked up into the eyes of my lover, who had stopped at the commotion. “Please continue, Professor Cutter.”
Nick narrowed his eyes at Bailey before he nodded to me. “As I was saying, Deinonychus is a much larger beast. It might not look impressive, being only three feet tall at the hips but it is nearly 12 feet long. It has powerful jaws filled with blade-like teeth and the trademark disembowelling claws on its hind feet. I've seen what those can do to a person. Believe me when I tell you, these creatures are swift and deadly. More importantly, they are highly intelligent pack-hunters who will hunt you while you hunt them...”
I sensed Bailey shifting in his chair and sent a cold glare his way. I almost smiled as I watched the hairs on the back of the homophobic fuckwit's neck stand to attention before their owner risked a glance over his shoulder. He shivered as he met my eyes before hastily turning back to pay, at least apparent, attention to Nick. I would have to keep an eye on him... well, more of an eye on him. All I needed was to be saddled with a bloody homophobe. I could almost smell Christine's involvement. She'd no doubt purposely lumbered me with Bailey and his ilk in the hope of distracting me from reacting to her plans.
Hmm. I made a mental note to have Lorraine check Johnson's men's records for anything that might indicate they had a problem with same-sex relationships. I smiled as I recalled her previous employment and wondered if she might be able to call in a favour with them for more information. Thinking of contacts, I'd have to put my own feelers out and see what mine had to say. No matter the answer, I'd have to warn Becker to watch his team.
Becker knocked on the door to my office and entered when I indicated he should. He stopped dead in his tracks when he realised that Nick was slumped in one of the chairs. I softly cleared my throat and Becker glanced at me, quickly snapping off a salute as he stood to attention. “I'm sorry, Professor, Sir James. I've had words with Bailey. I...”
I sighed, damning Christine for planting her men on me, and myself for taking my eyes off the ball. “It's not you who needs to apologise, Becker.” He was a good soldier, far better than any of his men deserved.
“He's one of my men, sir. I've put him on report for his conduct.”
“I've heard worse, captain.” Nick sighed as well as he added, “I suppose the fact that all the other soldiers have accepted our relationship ...” He lapsed into silence and stared out of my window.
Once Becker had departed, I leaned back in my chair and considered my lover. “Are you OK, Nick?” I knew he wasn't, but I wanted Nick to say it. I didn't want him to bottle things up and possibly, just possibly, blow up at Bailey and hand Christine something she could use against us. Against me.
Nick sighed as he leaned on the window frame and looked down into the atrium. “I suppose I should have expected it. Not everyone accepts gays.”
Don't I know it? My parents certainly didn't. Not that I said that to Nick. Instead I exhaled softly and pushed my chair back. When I padded over to Nick and wrapped my arms around him I could feel how rigidly he held himself. Bailey, you fucking bastard. My lips nuzzled Nick's neck and I continued until I felt him relax under my ministrations. My voice was soft, so much so that I knew Nick would have to strain to hear me. “You'll always find homophobic fuckwits wherever you go.”
Nick sighed and leaned back against me. For a moment I forgot why we were there and just luxuriated in the feel and smell of my lover. His words threw me back into reality. “I know, James. I suppose I just expected them to accept us as who we are. Our original soldiers...”
I cut Nick off by nipping his ear. “Our original assignment of soldiers included at least four gay or bisexual individuals.”
“At least?”
I smiled at the curiosity in Nick's voice. “It's up to them if they want to out themselves, love.” I nuzzled against Nick's neck. “Are you OK?”
“I'll survive.” He turned in my arms and kissed me. “I should go. I've had a new idea for my model...”
I sighed. “Just remember I'm not giving you any more lab space.” Fuck. That reminded me. “I've called a meeting for this afternoon. Lorraine can give you the time.”
Nick looked curious. “Is this to do with your meeting this morning?” When I sighed and nodded, my shoulders slumping slightly, Nick reached out and squeezed my arm. “James? What's happened?”
I exhaled softly, as much as I wanted to tell him... “I'll tell you at the meeting.”
Nick pulled me around until I faced him, his expression a mixture of curiosity and annoyance, before he nodded with a sigh. “You think Christine would accuse you of favouritism?”
I shrugged. “I wouldn't put it past her.”
“I'm sure I can hold my burning curiosity until later.”
I smiled softly as I watched Nick walk down the ramp to the atrium and into his office. I just hoped he would be as understanding after the meeting, that he'd understand I had no other choice. Bloody Christine Johnson and her Minister lapdog.
“Fuckwit,” I mumbled under my breath. I knew I wouldn't get any work done in my state, but I was also reluctant to interrupt Nick when he was working. If he could make a breakthrough in predicting anomalies I would have something to show the minister. Perhaps enough to convince him not to cut the ARC's budget. Thinking of that bloody pond-life who had me at his beck and call, coupled with Bailey's actions, had my temper rising again. I would need to find a safe release for some of my anger and I smiled as I noticed Ryan, Finn and Connor walking towards the firing range, or in Connor's case, dragging his heels. I couldn't have asked for a more opportune circumstance. I pulled my jacket on and headed for the atrium. “Lorraine, if anyone needs me I'll be on the firing range.”
“Yes, sir,” Lorraine replied, her head still bent over her paperwork. I had almost reached the ramp down to the atrium when her voice stopped me. “Oh, Sir James? Your departmental head meeting is at 3pm.”
I groaned softly. “Thank you, Lorraine.” I paused as I considered I'd need a proper record of the bloody meeting. The minister, or more precisely Christine, would want to see them. “Would you be available to take the minutes?”
“Of course, sir.” Lorraine answered brightly and I hide a smile. I knew she had been curious about my sudden need for a meeting and now I had provided her with a way to legally find out the answer. Not that I was concerned about satisfying her curiosity as Lorraine was the soul of discretion. It was, after all, one of the reasons I had hired her.
I arrived slightly too late to witness Connor shooting. I settled myself against the wall as I watched Finn correct Connor's stance slightly and offer him some advice on his grip. I turned my head as Ryan leaned beside me.
“Watching or practising, sir?”
I didn't answer him, instead asking, “How is Connor getting on?”
“Better. Finn tells me he's hitting more than he's missing.”
Good, that was excellent news. I took a subtle glance around before deciding that it looked better if I was practising rather than just chatting to Ryan. Beside that, watching Connor wouldn't be as therapeutic as hitting the targets myself. “I believe I could do with some more practice myself, Captain.”
Ryan nodded. “Yes, sir.” I knew he had caught on when I caught his eyes flickering around to check who was about. “More on the Sig Sauer P228 or shall we try something else?”
I quirked an eyebrow at him. So he was curious about how good I was? I had wondered when Ryan would call me on my earlier marksmanship. I had seen no reason to hide my skill, after all, Ryan needed to know what he was working with when it came to the combat readiness of my people, myself included. It was sound tactical sense. “What would you suggest?”
“Are we practising or using it for a quiet chat, sir?” Ryan paused before adding, “I heard about Bailey.”
My lips twitched. “Both. I've also had a bloody awful meeting this morning. Which reminds me, there is a departmental meeting at 3pm. I expect you to be there.”
“Sir?”
I paused, should I give Ryan a heads-up on the problem? I would need his input into what we could or couldn't cut, military-wise, not to mention his support in the no doubt difficult times ahead. “The minister has been told he has to lose money from his budget and has passed those cuts on to us. I need to know what we can safely cut back on, with a hefty safety margin included.”
“More bang for their pounds, sir?” When I nodded, Ryan sighed. “Bloody bureaucrats. Um, present company excluded, sir.”
I snorted. “Apology accepted, Ryan. Now, what have you got that I can use to blow big holes in things?”
Ryan chuckled and I knew he had read my thoughts. I was going to be imagining the minister and Christine as my targets. It was a bit of harmless release, one I knew my soldiers had practised a thousand times. I even suspected that I had been imagined as one of those helpless targets more than once.
I sighed softly as almost all the departmental heads left my office, none of them happy about the news of our budget cut. Several moaned about the staff they could no longer hire and I didn't blame them. They had spent time interviewing candidates and were probably as annoyed about the waste of their time as Jenny and I were about all the time we had spent security checking them.
I could hear Norman muttering about the Archangel Gabriel and the other interfering forces of Heaven. I was reasonably sure that Norman would be able to run his department with fewer resources. Hell, I was fairly sure Norman could run the country with nothing more than a roll of duct tape and a hammer.
I groaned softly as Nick's hands rubbed my neck, it felt so good. Even if we did still have company. Ryan and Jenny were sitting in front of my desk, both trying to smother their smiles at our little domestic scene. “Sit down, Nick.”
“You're too tense,” Nick grumbled as he sat down.
“Later.” I quirked an eyebrow at the other two, daring any of them to make a comment.
Jenny wisely decided discretion was a good idea. “What are we going to do, James?”
“Cope as best as we can,” I answered with the honest truth, seeing no reason to sugar-coat the unpalatable facts.
“This is Christine's meddling, isn't it.” Nick asked. I didn't need my nose to tell me he was unhappy about it.
I nodded. “She's hoping we will be so starved of resources that we will fail to contain an anomaly. Her plan is no doubt to step in and take over, with her increased budget from the minister.”
“Can't you get us more money?”
I blinked at Nick's suggestion. “I'm reasonably certain the minister is straight, and even if he isn't, I'm not blowing him.” Ryan snorted while Jenny just rolled her eyes at me. Nick shot me a look at my suggestion. I was pleased to note he didn't look happy at the thought of me blowing anyone except him.
Nick pouted before looking happier. “Couldn't we just get rid of Becker's team? We don't trust then and that would have to save us money.”
Ryan shook his head. “I'd prefer not to, sir. The remaining three teams would be run ragged.”
I nodded. “I know. Much as I'd like to dispense with their services, we'd lose too much operational ability without them.” I sighed. “Then we are far more likely to lose control of an anomaly.”
“And Christine would try to take over the ARC?”
Nick's voice held a hint of defeat and I barely contained the growl as I answered, “Over my dead body.”
“Not on my watch.” Ryan's voice was almost a growl and my inner-wolf nearly grinned. I quickly reminded myself that no matter how fit Ryan looked, he was straight and had a girlfriend. I also reminded myself that I had a boyfriend and was more than happy with him. I glanced over at Nick and met his glare. He had not liked my comment any more than Ryan had. I mentally made a note to make it up to him later.
“What are we going to do, James?” Jenny's voice restored order to the discussion, for which I was grateful.
“The best we can.” I mentally cursed Christine for putting me in this position. “The military has to have all the resources they need. Which means, unfortunately, that the science teams will suffer.”
“Damn,” Nick muttered. I was sure it was for Jenny's benefit that he kept his swearing to that mild word. “How can we discover what causes them if we can't study them?”
“I know.” I would have to soothe his ruffled feathers later. “But in order to keep control of this project, we have to contain the anomalies.”
“And for that we need the military,” Nick finished for me.
“Precisely.” I pressed the bridge of my nose. I could feel a headache building and it was all that bitch's fault.
Jenny and Ryan exchanged a glance before rising and leaving my office. Jenny calling back over her shoulder, “We'll leave you to work it out, James.”
I could have kissed them both for their tact. Instead I moaned as Nick's fingers returned to kneading my shoulders. I let my head lull forwards and gave him free range for a few minutes. “Much as I appreciate the neck rub, Nick, you need to get back to work.”
“Aye, I suppose so,” Nick agreed but continued his rub. “We'll keep control, James.”
“I hope so.” I could admit my fears to my lover, even though I wouldn't to my staff. “If Christine gets her talons into the ARC...” I shook my head.
“We won't let that happen.” Nick squeezed my shoulder. “Now, go and see Monty and let him calm you down for now.”
I couldn't help asking, “And later?”
“Bloody incorrigible,” Nick muttered on his way out.
I sighed before turning to my paperwork, trying to see where we could make savings that wouldn't prove disastrous to our mission. All it did was confirm that to keep the creatures under control we would have to scrimp on the science part of the anomalies. How the hell did the minister think we could stop the incursions if we didn't know how or why the anomalies opened in the first place?
Oh fuck.
Although, if I was correct, Christine might be content with letting the ARC limp on without interfering. If she did have outside interests... the secrets of the anomalies were probably a bigger prize than the creatures. Was she, or her partners, working on the anomalies themselves? If so, it might explain forcing us to cut back our science... or it could all be a bloody cock-up in the government's handling of the economy. I wasn't sure which was more likely.
I couldn't shake the feeling that I was missing an important part of the puzzle. Nor that Christine would want the ARC, even if it meant her budget was stretched. She'd want it merely so I couldn't have it.
I spent the rest of the afternoon immersed in the last six months' worth of expense records. After all these years working in government, the cost of the most basic supplies for a government funded project didn't surprise me. I pondered if I could out-source to different companies, ones that would charge us a hell of a lot less than these so-called gold star suppliers. Over £70 for a box of paper was extortionate. I could buy the same for under a tenner at the local stationary store. Likewise the almost £400 for a bloody printer cartridge and as for the £900 for the Christmas tree. Good God, no wonder the country was broke if this is how the government ran the economy. I shook my head. The state of the economy wasn't my concern, the ARC budget was. Even with shopping around for bargains, I knew it wouldn't save the sort of money we needed, but every penny saved would help. I clicked my intercom on. “Lorraine?”
“Sir James?”
“Please come in.” I waited for Lorraine to knock on my door and enter. “I want you to go through these records and see what we can buy cheaper elsewhere. I want our current orders cancelled and new ones set up. If you can't do that, I want a rota set up for shopping.” I glanced at the clock. Where had today gone? I never had got back to Monty, too caught up in trying to balance the budget. “Make that tomorrow.”
“Yes, sir. I'll get on to it first thing tomorrow. Goodnight, sir.”
“Night, Lorraine.” I heard her leave as I returned to perusing the paperwork. What else could I trim? What else could we buy cheaper through non-official channels? The minister might complain I wasn't buying through contracts, but if he wanted me to save money, he'd have to put up with it.
I groaned softly as fingers kneaded my neck and Nick's warm breath caressed my ear. “It's gone seven, James. Time to go home.” When I didn't reply, he added, “I'll make it worth your while.”
I snorted softly but couldn't deny his suggestion had merit. Not with my cock twitching and filling just at the thought of what Nick and I could do together. I drew back out of Nick's arms and pulled him in for a hard, demanding kiss. Finally drawing away from him, I grabbed my briefcase and put my documents in it. As I made for my door I quirked an eyebrow at Nick, who was standing bemused and licking his lips. “Coming, Nick?”
Nick's gaze fixed on my arse as he spoke, his voice husky with need, “Bloody right I am.”
I felt pleasantly sated as I leaned back against Nick as he nuzzled my neck. “Mmmm. That was lovely, Nick.”
“Pity we can't have fun this weekend.” Nick's fingers stroked over my stomach. “But some of us have to work.”
I rolled my eyes. “You mean lazing around waiting for an anomaly to open.” When Nick snorted, I added, “I, meanwhile, will be taking my life in my hands.”
I heard Nick snigger. “I forgot you'd offered to look after the Horde this weekend.” He kissed me before adding, “Poor baby.”
I groaned. “What have I told you about calling me that?”
“Sorry.” Nick didn't sound in the least bit sorry to my ears.
“You can make it up to me later.” I muttered as I tried to think what I could do with my children. I had planned on taking them out, with Nick along to help chaperone them. “Fuck!”
“You're the one who offered to look after the boys so Sarah could decorate. Don't blame me that you forgot I was on call this weekend.”
“You could have reminded me.” I muttered, even though I should have remembered myself.
“I was working at the time.”
Ah, there was that. I knew I couldn't really blame Nick for my decision, it was just I wanted us – Nick, the Horde and myself – to spend time together. I wanted the Horde to know Nick, and Nick to know the Horde, and this weekend had seemed the perfect opportunity.
Nick pressed his lips against mine. “You could always take them out somewhere.” He looked thoughtful for a moment.” You know, my nephews and nieces love theme parks. You could always take the boys to Alton Towers?”
I stared at Nick for an instant as I imagined the chaos my children would likely cause me if I took them to Alton Towers. They'd be all hyped and sugared-up and drag me onto rides I had no doubt I wouldn't want to go on. I shivered and looked at Nick in a way that had him chuckling at me.
Nick grinned unrepentantly at me, before my glare had him nibbling at my earlobe in a distracting and rather arousing manner. “I'll make it up to you next weekend.”
I angled my head to give him better access. “It'll be good to have a weekend off together. Just being able to take our time when we...” I shoved my arse back against him and grinned as I felt his cock twitch against me.
“Bloody incorrigible,” Nick muttered as he released me and rolled onto his stomach with his legs spread.
“I see you're not complaining,” I murmured as I pushed home and slowly rocked us both to completion. Afterwards, as I lay with my legs entangled with Nick's and my arms around him, I felt in a much better mood. I had at least started to sort out my budget problems and, even better, had enjoyed a good shag with my lover.
As my eyes drifted closed, I felt ready to counteract anything Christine could throw against me. As sleep beckoned I firmly reminded myself not to underestimate that bitch. But, for now, I snuggled closer to Nick and allowed his beloved scent to calm my worries as I fell asleep.
Author: knitekat
Word Count: 6270
Characters: Bailey (OC), Hilary Becker, Nick Cutter, Finn (OC), Christine Johnson, James Lester, Abby Maitland, Monty, Tom Ryan, Connor Temple, Lorraine Wickes.
Pairing: James Lester/Nick Cutter
Rating: 18
Disclaimer: Primeval belongs to Impossible Pictures. Certainly not me. Writing for fun and will replace. Several of the OCs belong to Fred.
A/N: Part of my Under The Moonlight wolfverse. Follows on from The Call Of The Moon. Thanks go to the wonderful Fred for the beta, all remaining mistakes are mine.
I strode out of the meeting in a foul mood. Didn't the bloody minister realise he was risking people's lives? I sighed. Of course he didn't, he was so bloody mesmerized by Christine that he'd do anything for her mouth on him. My lips twitched as I wondered if she still spat. Although, somehow I doubted he'd approve of that. That thought put me in a slightly better mood and I paused to consider the meeting. I had no doubt that Christine had influenced the minister into arranging it, all as part of her latest attempt to gain control of the ARC.
I found myself again wondering why I had ever thought getting involved with Christine was a good idea. We had met at a work function and had spent an enjoyable evening in each other's company, before we had embarked on a short but enthusiastic relationship. The sex had been good, probably as we were both far too competitive and dominant for it to be otherwise. Christine had always needed to win, I supposed that was what had attracted me to her. She was an alpha, the leader of a group, and I firmly believed that the wolf-part of me found that desirable in a mate.
I growled softly. I knew wool-gathering wouldn't solve my current predicament. I exhaled heavily as I realised I'd have to have multiple budget meetings at the ARC to see what could be trimmed without compromising safety. The minister was in search of multi-million pound savings and apparently my project came in under the 'fat-to-be-trimmed' heading, unlike Christine's pet project. Apparently her vital-to-national-security work would be receiving a budgetary increase. I would have wondered at the apparent intelligence of the minister, except that I knew Christine had sucked his brains out through his cock just before the meeting. I had smelt it in the air, the musty scent of arousal, and I had taken a quick sniff and smothered a smirk. So Christine still spat. In my opinion she missed one of the best bits of oral sex. I loved the taste of Nick as he emptied his very essence into my mouth.
“James.”
I silently groaned at Christine's voice. Just the person I least wanted to talk to. I had held the faintest of hopes that I could have slip away before she cornered me. I knew she had expected me to react badly to the minister's orders and use that reaction to convince the minister to give her more power over the ARC. I had merely nodded as the minister had given his instructions, not even raising an eyebrow at the news of Christine's budget increase. It had been amusing to watch Christine trying to conceal her annoyance from the minister. My lips twitched as I recalled my contact's comments over Christine's reaction to having her previous interference ignored. Apparently it had been a sight I'd have paid dearly to have witnessed.
I gave myself a mental shake as Christine drew closer. Any distraction could prove dangerous when dealing with her. I needed to be alert and ready for any of her little tricks. I pasted a smile on my face and turned to face her. “Christine?”
Christine looked amazingly immaculate for someone I knew had been on her knees not half-an-hour earlier. I had to concentrate not to screw up my nose up at the amount of perfume she was wearing as she stepped well inside my personal space. Did she need to put so much on... oh yes, she had been attending the same meeting as me, with the minister. Really, you'd think she'd be more subtle over her... relationship with the man. Not that I had any pity for him, he should know her reputation as well as I did.
While, at least I now knew what Christine's latest plan to take over my project was. She always had been one for scheming, plotting and playing the long game. And this time the prize was the ARC. My ARC.
“James.” Christine spoke, her cultured voice rich in superior and condescending notes breaking through my thoughts. “I thought we could have a coffee and discuss the ARC's budget.”
I had trouble keeping my lip down and glanced at my watch to shield my face from her. I was pleased that my voice was calm as I replied, “I'd love to, Christine, but I need to arrange meetings with my staff.”
“Oh, James.” Christine's laugh had my inner-wolf growling a warning. “I'd be happy to advise you on what you could cut.”
Of course you would. I thought I managed to keep my anger in check as I replied, “I wouldn't want to take you away from your own responsibilities, Christine. Don't worry, I'm sure I'll be able to sort out my own budget.”
Christine didn't look pleased with that, not if her tight smile was anything to go by. If she thought I'd let her anywhere near the internal workings of my ARC, she had another think coming. She might have managed to get her soldiers on the inside but they were more-or-less constrained. Not that I had discounted them as a potential threat and I had Ryan's men keeping an eye on them for me. I had found that a stare from Blade was worth his weight in gold when it came to dissuading Christine's soldiers. Interestingly enough, Finn had also proven adept at distracting the soldiers in his own bungling way.
“If you change your mind, James.”
I had to give it to her, Christine was nothing if not persistent. “You'll be the first person I inform,” I lied as I held out my hand and shook her's firmly. “Now, if you'll excuse me, Christine. I really do need to get back to the ARC.”
I could feel her eyes on my back as I walked out. My inner-wolf was growling almost constantly as it didn't like me having my back turned towards an enemy. I let out a breath as I climbed into my car and drove back to the ARC. I would be in need of some quality time with Nick or Monty. Pounding the treadmill in the gym would do at a pinch.
***
I arrived back at my office and slumped into my chair, but only for a second before I remembered my image and straightened up. I looked up at the knock on my door and smiled as Lorraine entered with a life-saving cup of tea.
“Can I get you anything else, Sir James?”
“No, thank you, Lorraine.” I bit back a groan as I recalled the minister's orders. “Forget that, Lorraine. I need you to arrange a meeting with all the department heads. Ryan included. Accept no excuses except for an anomaly alert.”
“Of course. When shall I arrange it for?”
“As soon as possible.” I sighed and rubbed my eyes. I really didn't want to face my loyal people and tell them we were losing money. Not that it was my fault, but I always felt I should be able to protect my people better.
“Nick's talk is in 30 minutes, sir. Shall I have him cancel it?”
“Fuck!” I groaned before smiling apologetically at Lorraine. “Sorry for the language, Lorraine. And, no. Nick's worked hard on his talk, please arrange the meeting for later.” I knew exactly how hard Nick had been working on his talk. I had even had bits of it read out to me as he had practised it. It appeared that I was getting an education in prehistoric life whether I wanted it or not.
“No problem, sir. I assume your meeting with the minister didn't go well?” Lorraine enquired. She always had been quick on the uptake. I was left once more with the distinct feeling that Lorraine knew more of the goings-on in the ARC than I did.
“You could say that.” I shook my head. I knew complaining about what had happened wouldn't change anything and I was too professional to indulge myself in whining. “Can you pull all our expenses for the last... hmm... six months should be enough.”
“Of course, sir.”
I had no idea how I'd run this project without the presence of the ever-efficient Lorraine to make sure everything ran smoothly. Not that she could do anything about my other problem. No matter how much I craved Nick's touch, I would not disturb his concentration before he had to give a lecture on whatever the creature of the week was to a group of rowdy soldiers. Likewise, the gym was also out as I would not have time before Nick's talk.
I smiled softly. I should spend more time with Monty as I had been neglecting him shockingly recently. I really would have to find more time to visit him, and now was an excellent time to start.
I detoured to pick up some apples and headed towards Monty's enclosure. I smiled as I watched Monty playing with his... what had Abby called it?... Oh, yes. Environment enhancement, I believe it was. He certainly looked happier in his confinement. Well, as happy as any wild creature could be in captivity. As much as I loved coming to see Monty, I would return him to his home in a shot if I could. He deserved to be free and among his own kind, not caged, imprisoned. My inner-wolf hated to see any animal locked up, even if I knew it was for the best, that there was no other option... none that I would countenance.
Monty's trunk twitched and swept back towards me and I noticed his nostrils quiver as he caught my scent. He rumbled deep in his chest and swung around to face me. His ears pricked as he trumpeted a greeting and walked over to me. I smiled as his trunk moved over my body before homing in on the bag of apples. “Yes, I know.” I patted his trunk. “You only love me for the apples.” Monty rumbled again and wrapped his trunk around me for an instant and I had the distinct feeling he was disagreeing with me.
I almost jumped when Abby's voice sounded behind me. “Should I leave you two alone?” I swung around to meet Abby's amused look as Monty continued nuzzling against me for his treat. “I wouldn't want to interrupt anything.”
I rolled my eyes at the suggestive tone Abby put into those words as she strolled out of the enclosure with a smile on her lips. It actually felt good to have her gently tease me. To be considered part of the team rather than the cold and distant presence in an office, ignored and feared. My full attention was dragged back to Monty when he rumbled and nudged me with his trunk for attention. “Good boy. I do know you like me.” I wasn't totally convinced he understood me, but I had to tell him.
“I've only time for a quick visit. At least for now.” I told Monty as I fed him his apples. He ghosted the tip of his trunk over my hair, ruffling it. “Hey. Watch the hair.” I muttered as I leaned against his bulk and allowed his scent to calm me. I breathed deeply and evenly, I might not know why Monty had that effect on me and, truthfully, I didn't care what the answer was. All that mattered was that he did.
Finally, I pulled away and gave him a final pat. “Good boy.” I glanced at my watch and cursed softly. I was going to be late. “Sorry, Monty, but I have to go.” I gave him a final tickle and hurried from his enclosure. I might be late, but hell would freeze over before I dented my image and actually ran, a determined walk would have to do.
****
I slipped into the conference room and found an empty seat at the back. Well, empty once I had nudged Finn into moving his bag from it. As I sat down I glanced at the notepad he was scribbling in before he twitched his wrist to hide its contents from me. I had seen enough to know what he was up to and quirked an eyebrow at him. Finn just shifted in his seat and shot a quick glance around to see if we were being watched before allowing me to see what he was writing. I smiled as it confirmed my opinion that Finn wasn't as dim as most people believed.
I settled into a more comfortable position and watched Nick give his talk to the soldiers and a few other interested souls. He was waving his hands as he spoke. He always did like to use his hands to add emphasis to whatever point he was discussing... not to mention in bed. I shook myself from my rather nice daydreams before they had an unfortunate effect on my composure and began to listen to Nick. I couldn't help my suspicious that he'd be testing me later. My lips twitched at the name of the creature he was discussing. Someone had truly named it that?
“... now, although the Bambiraptor was only the size of a chicken, don't think that all Dromaeosauridae were of similar size. The Deinonychus...”
I noticed Bailey, one of Johnson's soldiers, fidgeting in a chair two rows in front of me. Before I could admonish him to sit still and have the politeness to listen to Nick, he spoke. His bored, and I assumed somewhat louder than he meant, voice cut through the room and stopped Nick in mid-sentence. “Fuck this for a game of soldiers. Just 'cos he's Lester's blue-eyed fuck-toy doesn't...”
I only just restrained the growl that threatened to burst from my throat. As it was, my voice was soft and deadly as I spoke. “Corporal Bailey. Would you care to repeat that comment?”
The soldiers around Bailey carefully edged away as he slowly looked around to face me. His face paled and he swallowed hard as he saw me and I concluded that he would never have spoken out of turn if he'd known I was there. “No, sir.”
I raised an eyebrow at him. “See that you don't. If I hear any more comments like that again...” I allowed a low growl to enter my voice. “Well, let us just say, you won't like the consequences.” I smiled coldly at him and was pleased to see the man shiver. “Do I make myself clear?”
“Yes, sir.”
“Good.” I looked up into the eyes of my lover, who had stopped at the commotion. “Please continue, Professor Cutter.”
Nick narrowed his eyes at Bailey before he nodded to me. “As I was saying, Deinonychus is a much larger beast. It might not look impressive, being only three feet tall at the hips but it is nearly 12 feet long. It has powerful jaws filled with blade-like teeth and the trademark disembowelling claws on its hind feet. I've seen what those can do to a person. Believe me when I tell you, these creatures are swift and deadly. More importantly, they are highly intelligent pack-hunters who will hunt you while you hunt them...”
I sensed Bailey shifting in his chair and sent a cold glare his way. I almost smiled as I watched the hairs on the back of the homophobic fuckwit's neck stand to attention before their owner risked a glance over his shoulder. He shivered as he met my eyes before hastily turning back to pay, at least apparent, attention to Nick. I would have to keep an eye on him... well, more of an eye on him. All I needed was to be saddled with a bloody homophobe. I could almost smell Christine's involvement. She'd no doubt purposely lumbered me with Bailey and his ilk in the hope of distracting me from reacting to her plans.
Hmm. I made a mental note to have Lorraine check Johnson's men's records for anything that might indicate they had a problem with same-sex relationships. I smiled as I recalled her previous employment and wondered if she might be able to call in a favour with them for more information. Thinking of contacts, I'd have to put my own feelers out and see what mine had to say. No matter the answer, I'd have to warn Becker to watch his team.
*****
Becker knocked on the door to my office and entered when I indicated he should. He stopped dead in his tracks when he realised that Nick was slumped in one of the chairs. I softly cleared my throat and Becker glanced at me, quickly snapping off a salute as he stood to attention. “I'm sorry, Professor, Sir James. I've had words with Bailey. I...”
I sighed, damning Christine for planting her men on me, and myself for taking my eyes off the ball. “It's not you who needs to apologise, Becker.” He was a good soldier, far better than any of his men deserved.
“He's one of my men, sir. I've put him on report for his conduct.”
“I've heard worse, captain.” Nick sighed as well as he added, “I suppose the fact that all the other soldiers have accepted our relationship ...” He lapsed into silence and stared out of my window.
*****
Once Becker had departed, I leaned back in my chair and considered my lover. “Are you OK, Nick?” I knew he wasn't, but I wanted Nick to say it. I didn't want him to bottle things up and possibly, just possibly, blow up at Bailey and hand Christine something she could use against us. Against me.
Nick sighed as he leaned on the window frame and looked down into the atrium. “I suppose I should have expected it. Not everyone accepts gays.”
Don't I know it? My parents certainly didn't. Not that I said that to Nick. Instead I exhaled softly and pushed my chair back. When I padded over to Nick and wrapped my arms around him I could feel how rigidly he held himself. Bailey, you fucking bastard. My lips nuzzled Nick's neck and I continued until I felt him relax under my ministrations. My voice was soft, so much so that I knew Nick would have to strain to hear me. “You'll always find homophobic fuckwits wherever you go.”
Nick sighed and leaned back against me. For a moment I forgot why we were there and just luxuriated in the feel and smell of my lover. His words threw me back into reality. “I know, James. I suppose I just expected them to accept us as who we are. Our original soldiers...”
I cut Nick off by nipping his ear. “Our original assignment of soldiers included at least four gay or bisexual individuals.”
“At least?”
I smiled at the curiosity in Nick's voice. “It's up to them if they want to out themselves, love.” I nuzzled against Nick's neck. “Are you OK?”
“I'll survive.” He turned in my arms and kissed me. “I should go. I've had a new idea for my model...”
I sighed. “Just remember I'm not giving you any more lab space.” Fuck. That reminded me. “I've called a meeting for this afternoon. Lorraine can give you the time.”
Nick looked curious. “Is this to do with your meeting this morning?” When I sighed and nodded, my shoulders slumping slightly, Nick reached out and squeezed my arm. “James? What's happened?”
I exhaled softly, as much as I wanted to tell him... “I'll tell you at the meeting.”
Nick pulled me around until I faced him, his expression a mixture of curiosity and annoyance, before he nodded with a sigh. “You think Christine would accuse you of favouritism?”
I shrugged. “I wouldn't put it past her.”
“I'm sure I can hold my burning curiosity until later.”
I smiled softly as I watched Nick walk down the ramp to the atrium and into his office. I just hoped he would be as understanding after the meeting, that he'd understand I had no other choice. Bloody Christine Johnson and her Minister lapdog.
“Fuckwit,” I mumbled under my breath. I knew I wouldn't get any work done in my state, but I was also reluctant to interrupt Nick when he was working. If he could make a breakthrough in predicting anomalies I would have something to show the minister. Perhaps enough to convince him not to cut the ARC's budget. Thinking of that bloody pond-life who had me at his beck and call, coupled with Bailey's actions, had my temper rising again. I would need to find a safe release for some of my anger and I smiled as I noticed Ryan, Finn and Connor walking towards the firing range, or in Connor's case, dragging his heels. I couldn't have asked for a more opportune circumstance. I pulled my jacket on and headed for the atrium. “Lorraine, if anyone needs me I'll be on the firing range.”
“Yes, sir,” Lorraine replied, her head still bent over her paperwork. I had almost reached the ramp down to the atrium when her voice stopped me. “Oh, Sir James? Your departmental head meeting is at 3pm.”
I groaned softly. “Thank you, Lorraine.” I paused as I considered I'd need a proper record of the bloody meeting. The minister, or more precisely Christine, would want to see them. “Would you be available to take the minutes?”
“Of course, sir.” Lorraine answered brightly and I hide a smile. I knew she had been curious about my sudden need for a meeting and now I had provided her with a way to legally find out the answer. Not that I was concerned about satisfying her curiosity as Lorraine was the soul of discretion. It was, after all, one of the reasons I had hired her.
******
I arrived slightly too late to witness Connor shooting. I settled myself against the wall as I watched Finn correct Connor's stance slightly and offer him some advice on his grip. I turned my head as Ryan leaned beside me.
“Watching or practising, sir?”
I didn't answer him, instead asking, “How is Connor getting on?”
“Better. Finn tells me he's hitting more than he's missing.”
Good, that was excellent news. I took a subtle glance around before deciding that it looked better if I was practising rather than just chatting to Ryan. Beside that, watching Connor wouldn't be as therapeutic as hitting the targets myself. “I believe I could do with some more practice myself, Captain.”
Ryan nodded. “Yes, sir.” I knew he had caught on when I caught his eyes flickering around to check who was about. “More on the Sig Sauer P228 or shall we try something else?”
I quirked an eyebrow at him. So he was curious about how good I was? I had wondered when Ryan would call me on my earlier marksmanship. I had seen no reason to hide my skill, after all, Ryan needed to know what he was working with when it came to the combat readiness of my people, myself included. It was sound tactical sense. “What would you suggest?”
“Are we practising or using it for a quiet chat, sir?” Ryan paused before adding, “I heard about Bailey.”
My lips twitched. “Both. I've also had a bloody awful meeting this morning. Which reminds me, there is a departmental meeting at 3pm. I expect you to be there.”
“Sir?”
I paused, should I give Ryan a heads-up on the problem? I would need his input into what we could or couldn't cut, military-wise, not to mention his support in the no doubt difficult times ahead. “The minister has been told he has to lose money from his budget and has passed those cuts on to us. I need to know what we can safely cut back on, with a hefty safety margin included.”
“More bang for their pounds, sir?” When I nodded, Ryan sighed. “Bloody bureaucrats. Um, present company excluded, sir.”
I snorted. “Apology accepted, Ryan. Now, what have you got that I can use to blow big holes in things?”
Ryan chuckled and I knew he had read my thoughts. I was going to be imagining the minister and Christine as my targets. It was a bit of harmless release, one I knew my soldiers had practised a thousand times. I even suspected that I had been imagined as one of those helpless targets more than once.
****
I sighed softly as almost all the departmental heads left my office, none of them happy about the news of our budget cut. Several moaned about the staff they could no longer hire and I didn't blame them. They had spent time interviewing candidates and were probably as annoyed about the waste of their time as Jenny and I were about all the time we had spent security checking them.
I could hear Norman muttering about the Archangel Gabriel and the other interfering forces of Heaven. I was reasonably sure that Norman would be able to run his department with fewer resources. Hell, I was fairly sure Norman could run the country with nothing more than a roll of duct tape and a hammer.
I groaned softly as Nick's hands rubbed my neck, it felt so good. Even if we did still have company. Ryan and Jenny were sitting in front of my desk, both trying to smother their smiles at our little domestic scene. “Sit down, Nick.”
“You're too tense,” Nick grumbled as he sat down.
“Later.” I quirked an eyebrow at the other two, daring any of them to make a comment.
Jenny wisely decided discretion was a good idea. “What are we going to do, James?”
“Cope as best as we can,” I answered with the honest truth, seeing no reason to sugar-coat the unpalatable facts.
“This is Christine's meddling, isn't it.” Nick asked. I didn't need my nose to tell me he was unhappy about it.
I nodded. “She's hoping we will be so starved of resources that we will fail to contain an anomaly. Her plan is no doubt to step in and take over, with her increased budget from the minister.”
“Can't you get us more money?”
I blinked at Nick's suggestion. “I'm reasonably certain the minister is straight, and even if he isn't, I'm not blowing him.” Ryan snorted while Jenny just rolled her eyes at me. Nick shot me a look at my suggestion. I was pleased to note he didn't look happy at the thought of me blowing anyone except him.
Nick pouted before looking happier. “Couldn't we just get rid of Becker's team? We don't trust then and that would have to save us money.”
Ryan shook his head. “I'd prefer not to, sir. The remaining three teams would be run ragged.”
I nodded. “I know. Much as I'd like to dispense with their services, we'd lose too much operational ability without them.” I sighed. “Then we are far more likely to lose control of an anomaly.”
“And Christine would try to take over the ARC?”
Nick's voice held a hint of defeat and I barely contained the growl as I answered, “Over my dead body.”
“Not on my watch.” Ryan's voice was almost a growl and my inner-wolf nearly grinned. I quickly reminded myself that no matter how fit Ryan looked, he was straight and had a girlfriend. I also reminded myself that I had a boyfriend and was more than happy with him. I glanced over at Nick and met his glare. He had not liked my comment any more than Ryan had. I mentally made a note to make it up to him later.
“What are we going to do, James?” Jenny's voice restored order to the discussion, for which I was grateful.
“The best we can.” I mentally cursed Christine for putting me in this position. “The military has to have all the resources they need. Which means, unfortunately, that the science teams will suffer.”
“Damn,” Nick muttered. I was sure it was for Jenny's benefit that he kept his swearing to that mild word. “How can we discover what causes them if we can't study them?”
“I know.” I would have to soothe his ruffled feathers later. “But in order to keep control of this project, we have to contain the anomalies.”
“And for that we need the military,” Nick finished for me.
“Precisely.” I pressed the bridge of my nose. I could feel a headache building and it was all that bitch's fault.
Jenny and Ryan exchanged a glance before rising and leaving my office. Jenny calling back over her shoulder, “We'll leave you to work it out, James.”
I could have kissed them both for their tact. Instead I moaned as Nick's fingers returned to kneading my shoulders. I let my head lull forwards and gave him free range for a few minutes. “Much as I appreciate the neck rub, Nick, you need to get back to work.”
“Aye, I suppose so,” Nick agreed but continued his rub. “We'll keep control, James.”
“I hope so.” I could admit my fears to my lover, even though I wouldn't to my staff. “If Christine gets her talons into the ARC...” I shook my head.
“We won't let that happen.” Nick squeezed my shoulder. “Now, go and see Monty and let him calm you down for now.”
I couldn't help asking, “And later?”
“Bloody incorrigible,” Nick muttered on his way out.
I sighed before turning to my paperwork, trying to see where we could make savings that wouldn't prove disastrous to our mission. All it did was confirm that to keep the creatures under control we would have to scrimp on the science part of the anomalies. How the hell did the minister think we could stop the incursions if we didn't know how or why the anomalies opened in the first place?
Oh fuck.
Although, if I was correct, Christine might be content with letting the ARC limp on without interfering. If she did have outside interests... the secrets of the anomalies were probably a bigger prize than the creatures. Was she, or her partners, working on the anomalies themselves? If so, it might explain forcing us to cut back our science... or it could all be a bloody cock-up in the government's handling of the economy. I wasn't sure which was more likely.
I couldn't shake the feeling that I was missing an important part of the puzzle. Nor that Christine would want the ARC, even if it meant her budget was stretched. She'd want it merely so I couldn't have it.
****
I spent the rest of the afternoon immersed in the last six months' worth of expense records. After all these years working in government, the cost of the most basic supplies for a government funded project didn't surprise me. I pondered if I could out-source to different companies, ones that would charge us a hell of a lot less than these so-called gold star suppliers. Over £70 for a box of paper was extortionate. I could buy the same for under a tenner at the local stationary store. Likewise the almost £400 for a bloody printer cartridge and as for the £900 for the Christmas tree. Good God, no wonder the country was broke if this is how the government ran the economy. I shook my head. The state of the economy wasn't my concern, the ARC budget was. Even with shopping around for bargains, I knew it wouldn't save the sort of money we needed, but every penny saved would help. I clicked my intercom on. “Lorraine?”
“Sir James?”
“Please come in.” I waited for Lorraine to knock on my door and enter. “I want you to go through these records and see what we can buy cheaper elsewhere. I want our current orders cancelled and new ones set up. If you can't do that, I want a rota set up for shopping.” I glanced at the clock. Where had today gone? I never had got back to Monty, too caught up in trying to balance the budget. “Make that tomorrow.”
“Yes, sir. I'll get on to it first thing tomorrow. Goodnight, sir.”
“Night, Lorraine.” I heard her leave as I returned to perusing the paperwork. What else could I trim? What else could we buy cheaper through non-official channels? The minister might complain I wasn't buying through contracts, but if he wanted me to save money, he'd have to put up with it.
I groaned softly as fingers kneaded my neck and Nick's warm breath caressed my ear. “It's gone seven, James. Time to go home.” When I didn't reply, he added, “I'll make it worth your while.”
I snorted softly but couldn't deny his suggestion had merit. Not with my cock twitching and filling just at the thought of what Nick and I could do together. I drew back out of Nick's arms and pulled him in for a hard, demanding kiss. Finally drawing away from him, I grabbed my briefcase and put my documents in it. As I made for my door I quirked an eyebrow at Nick, who was standing bemused and licking his lips. “Coming, Nick?”
Nick's gaze fixed on my arse as he spoke, his voice husky with need, “Bloody right I am.”
****
I felt pleasantly sated as I leaned back against Nick as he nuzzled my neck. “Mmmm. That was lovely, Nick.”
“Pity we can't have fun this weekend.” Nick's fingers stroked over my stomach. “But some of us have to work.”
I rolled my eyes. “You mean lazing around waiting for an anomaly to open.” When Nick snorted, I added, “I, meanwhile, will be taking my life in my hands.”
I heard Nick snigger. “I forgot you'd offered to look after the Horde this weekend.” He kissed me before adding, “Poor baby.”
I groaned. “What have I told you about calling me that?”
“Sorry.” Nick didn't sound in the least bit sorry to my ears.
“You can make it up to me later.” I muttered as I tried to think what I could do with my children. I had planned on taking them out, with Nick along to help chaperone them. “Fuck!”
“You're the one who offered to look after the boys so Sarah could decorate. Don't blame me that you forgot I was on call this weekend.”
“You could have reminded me.” I muttered, even though I should have remembered myself.
“I was working at the time.”
Ah, there was that. I knew I couldn't really blame Nick for my decision, it was just I wanted us – Nick, the Horde and myself – to spend time together. I wanted the Horde to know Nick, and Nick to know the Horde, and this weekend had seemed the perfect opportunity.
Nick pressed his lips against mine. “You could always take them out somewhere.” He looked thoughtful for a moment.” You know, my nephews and nieces love theme parks. You could always take the boys to Alton Towers?”
I stared at Nick for an instant as I imagined the chaos my children would likely cause me if I took them to Alton Towers. They'd be all hyped and sugared-up and drag me onto rides I had no doubt I wouldn't want to go on. I shivered and looked at Nick in a way that had him chuckling at me.
Nick grinned unrepentantly at me, before my glare had him nibbling at my earlobe in a distracting and rather arousing manner. “I'll make it up to you next weekend.”
I angled my head to give him better access. “It'll be good to have a weekend off together. Just being able to take our time when we...” I shoved my arse back against him and grinned as I felt his cock twitch against me.
“Bloody incorrigible,” Nick muttered as he released me and rolled onto his stomach with his legs spread.
“I see you're not complaining,” I murmured as I pushed home and slowly rocked us both to completion. Afterwards, as I lay with my legs entangled with Nick's and my arms around him, I felt in a much better mood. I had at least started to sort out my budget problems and, even better, had enjoyed a good shag with my lover.
As my eyes drifted closed, I felt ready to counteract anything Christine could throw against me. As sleep beckoned I firmly reminded myself not to underestimate that bitch. But, for now, I snuggled closer to Nick and allowed his beloved scent to calm my worries as I fell asleep.
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Date: 2011-09-30 11:28 pm (UTC)And what a start! *shivers* Very yummy. Love 5the affection between James and Nick.
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Date: 2011-10-01 10:14 am (UTC)Thanks and glad you liked it. Hee, Christine has to plot. Glad you liked James and Nick together. Thanks for reading.
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Date: 2011-10-01 12:40 am (UTC)no subject
Date: 2011-10-01 10:16 am (UTC)no subject
Date: 2011-10-01 07:45 am (UTC)The little flashes of wolf!Lester like his sense of smell alerting him to what Christine has been up to work wonderfully, and his mounting frustration in this is so well depicted.
Great story!
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Date: 2011-10-01 10:19 am (UTC)Glad you like the little bits of wolf!Lester in it, I think, esp from his pov, they need to be there. He's not a happy wolf at the moment.
Thanks and thanks again for the beta. *hugs*
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Date: 2011-10-01 08:21 am (UTC)no subject
Date: 2011-10-01 10:22 am (UTC)Glad you liked it and thanks for reading.
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Date: 2011-10-01 12:30 pm (UTC)Ryan, straight? LOL!
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Date: 2011-10-02 01:59 pm (UTC)Well, he is here ;)
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Date: 2011-10-01 02:20 pm (UTC)Great fic!
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Date: 2011-10-02 02:05 pm (UTC)Thanks, glad you liked it.
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Date: 2011-10-02 10:40 am (UTC)no subject
Date: 2011-10-02 02:21 pm (UTC)no subject
Date: 2011-10-03 03:18 pm (UTC)no subject
Date: 2011-10-03 09:19 pm (UTC)no subject
Date: 2011-10-12 07:50 pm (UTC)no subject
Date: 2011-10-12 08:32 pm (UTC)