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16 year olds discovering their sexualities together, allover again.","description_bbcode_parsed":"Like 16 year olds discovering their sexualities together, allover again.","writing":"[center][b]CHAPTER XXIV[/b][/center]\n\n[color=#a40000]Having known -of- Zonic was completely different than actually getting to know him at this time. He didn’t expect such jokes, which actually got him chuckling here and there. Being poked at in such a way felt endearing, he felt nice. He leaned forward a bit, having Zonic’s arms around his neck felt really warm. He didn’t pull back or fight the other off, getting close was comfortable so far. Zhadow couldn’t help but place his hands on Zonic’s hips, though he was being modest by settling them a bit higher than most. This was okay to do so far, and Zonic seemed to be catching on. That red face of his definitely said so. \n\n“I’m thinking of going to my place. Maybe have some wine to help end the night nicely. Maybe you’d like to join me.” He lowered his eyelids, staring directly into the emerald eyes of the other. “You don’t have to say yes. I’m just… interested, I guess. You’re lucky… I don’t normally pick others up so quickly but you’re someone I kind of work with..” He shrugged. “Didn’t think you’d be into men, but I suppose that’s not something to be questioning, given our position as of now. If you want… I could drive us there, bring you back by morning, unless you work tomorrow.” It wasn’t odd to ask, but he did feel a bit ahead of himself. \n\nAgain, the music seemed to mute all else. He could kind of understand how others forgot their surroundings and just let loose. He was tempted to look over at the bartender just to get some kind of moral support with a grin or a thumbs up. Despite that, he couldn’t look away from Zonic, mostly due to his anticipation for an answer, but Chaos, he was very cute. Taking the other back to his place sounded like an okay option, but how far would they go. He wasn’t yet in need of sex, but it’d be interesting to see that side of his fellow officer. It was a private matter that he didn’t engage in as often as he’d liked but he wasn’t much of a sex hungry fiend. Zhadow knew that sex was great and all but he just liked having a very mellow companion. He was yet to find someone that was just as calm about the subject, as most people wanted to fuck every night. He didn’t think he could handle that too much. Was he getting ahead of himself thinking this way? If they did have a one night stand, maybe it’d just be that. He was sure they’d be too busy to constantly visit one another, but it could work out. They worked in the same building, but on different levels and separate fields. He was an elite, and as much as Zonic seemed to fit that description, Zonic was in a lower department, still a very good cop. \n\nA bummer though, he sort of felt sad this may not happen so easily, but it didn’t hurt to try. If he was shot down, then it was fine. It just… made some sense in his head but he wasn’t determined to make Zonic all his. Not unless they played off each other properly. [/color]\n\n[color=#204a87]Zonic swallowed and didn't quite know where to look. Of course he couldn't look like a coward so he forced himself to look into Zhadow's eyes. There it was. Zhadow the mysterious elite soldier was actively picking him up. Asking him to come to his house. For wine. And to stay the night. There was no doubt in Zonic's mind what all of that meant.\n\nIt took him a moment to answer. He felt drawn to the striped hedgehog. He wanted to see what'd happen. It felt so -good- to be wanted. It felt so incredibly good it made his heart want to explode. Zonic couldn't even comprehend it properly yet. Zhadow of all people, someone he deeply respected in a work setting, -wanted- him. After years of not caring about anyone at all and one month being shot down time and time again... finally, someone wanted him. Not just his mouth. But him. As a person. To just be around and drink some wine and who knew what else could happen.\n\n\"I'd be happy to join you.\" He said quietly. His cheeks and ears were still red. Where was this going to lead. What was going to happen? \"I'm honored.\" He chuckled, but it was true. He did feel slightly honored for being given this kind of attention so willingly. \"And... I didn't think I was into -anyone- until about a month ago... but a lot happened since then. And driving me back by morning sounds... good. I've been forced to take my vacation. Too much overtime. I have this case I really want to close and... I overdid it, I suppose.\" He sighed quietly. \"It's a running gag in my department that I'm married to my work and live in my office.\" He gave Zhadow a crooked smile.\n\nFor a moment there was silence again as they swayed to the music. Now that he'd been invited home he felt like it was safe to get a little closer. He needed the comfort of another body. No matter in what way. So he stepped just a little closer until there wasn't much space left between them. In fact it was so little space that he could feel the dark hedgehog's body heat spreading to his own body. Their noses were nearly touching.\n\n\"I'm looking forward to seeing how the mysterious Zhadow the Elite agent lives.\" He could talk more quietly now that they were so close. And hell for all he cared they could get even closer. Ha. Oh how he wished Scourge would feel jealous too. Then at least it'd be fair. No. Stop. No more thinking about Scourge while Zhadow was right in front of him. -That- wasn't fair.[/color]\n\n[color=#a40000]So Zonic wasn’t too different from himself, unable to really part with his labors, having to submerge himself fully into the work he signed up for. He could definitely understand, as it was a very important part of his life and Zonic could relate. It felt nice that someone else would understand to a certain degree, as he was no stranger to such comments by others within in his department. They never phased him, as he was dedicated because he felt the work he did made a difference. Zhadow was a very great addition to the team, as he wasn’t as emotionally driven as some other cops, being able to negotiate and act on logic rather than allow his feelings get in the way. It was something he wondered about, how he was able to even do things some others just couldn’t fathom doing thanks to their emotional connections. \n\nStill, it was… well, nice. Zonic was interested, surprised and quite happy to be invited. It was pretty adorable, how shy he seemed. Out of the office, was he normally this endearing? Zhadow felt he was getting ahead of himself. Sure, Zonic was definitely a looker, but was he really someone to get so head over heels for so soon? Zhadow felt himself mentally laughing at his eagerness to really get to know the other. Without much warning, Zhadow took Zonic by the hands and began walking towards the bar. He gave the bartender to correct amount of cash for both their drinks, smiling as he left. Taking his companion out to the parking lot, he unlocked the door after searching for his keys. \n\n“Did you run or drive here? I can come back to fetch your car later… you’re in no condition to drive.” That was if things went… well. With all that in mind, he got into the driver’s seat, buckling up and starting up the vehicle. Zhadow was a pretty good driver, not too fast or too slow. His music was whatever was on the radio, any new station that wasn’t just a mass of static. Driving over to his place took no time at all. He lived in a small gated community with townhomes inside. His neighbors were rather young college kids that could be loud sometimes, but he didn’t mind much. They got back in line whenever he was around, since he was a cop and all. \n\nLeading the way over to his front door, he looked back at zonic and then the door. \n\n“I sort of forgot to clean up the kitchen so there’s a few dirty dishes in the sink. Hope you’re okay with that… Just um… take off your shoes before you step on the carpet, okay?” He opened the door, removing his shoes and setting them off to the side. His coat was hung up and the light was turned on. His place was pretty basic itself, only there was a tad bit more personality in it. His walls weren’t as bland as Zonic’s as there were framed posters of certain bands and movies he enjoyed, some plants strewn throughout the hallways and walls and some knick knacks that varied from silver or gold in color. \n\nThe carpet was super soft, the furniture in his home was obviously expensive stuff, Zhadow didn’t seem to care for anything less than that and thankfully he made enough money to keep up such a lifestyle. \n\n“Feel free to get comfortable. I trust you’re not some wild card when off the job. There’s refreshments in the fridge. If you’ll excuse me, I need to visit the restroom.” He felt a tad bit embarrassed, moving onward to the bathroom and shut the door. Zhadow was mostly hoping for this to go smoothly… he pulled the toilet seat cover down and sat on it, contacting Zouge, hoping to get some kind of moral support for this. Why was he suddenly on edge. [/color]\n\n[color=#204a87]Zonic was pulled out of the bar before he even really realised that Zhadow just paid for all his drinks. Definitely not okay. He was going to pay that back later. \"I came by car but it's fine. Just leave it I'll go fetch it when I'm sober again.\" He said shrugging his shoulders. And then he was in Zhadow's car and they were driving. He hardly even heard the music on the radio, but instead he tried to memorize the way to Zhadow's house.\n\nThe house itself was... expensive. Well mostly on the inside, but everything here looked like it cost a lot of money. He sat down to strip off his shoes just in case. The whiskey went to his head but he wasn't swaying yet or anything. Still, it was safer to do things sitting down. The carpet felt so soft he wanted to take off his socks to feel it properly. \"You have it nice...\" he noted while looking around. Posters. Potted plants. Zonic cringed at the thought of his very dead and forgotten balcony plants. \"I can never keep plants alive, I'm not at home enough and then I forget.\"\n\nZhadow showed him around and then excused himself to the bathroom. And suddenly Zonic was alone. Alone and VERY nervous. His focus had shifted. The thought of Scourge doing it with that white fox was still there but... further in the back of his mind. Instead his focus was on the here and now. On being in Zhadow's apartment and on what could happen during the course of the night. He couldn't sit down. Instead he wandered around, into the kitchen to look at the fridge. And he almost felt his cleaning tick set upon seeing the few dirty dishes in the sink. But he couldn't just go and wash somebody else's dishes... could he. For the first time in his life he thought for a moment whether or not this cleaning tick of his was some kind of compulsive disorder.\n\nSo he thought as he started to wash the dishes. Great. Zhadow would probably not appreciate this too much but for the moment it calmed him down. Three plates two cups, some spoons, forks and knives and he felt a little better about himself. By the time Zhadow returned he was trying to figure out where everything went without opening any doors or drawers. This wasn't his house after all, he couldn't just open everything.\n\nWhen Zhadow actually peeked into the kitchen Zonic looked a bit as if he'd just been witnessed committing a crime. \"Welcome back. Sorry.\" He gestured at the dishes. \"I clean when I'm nervous... but I don't know where everything goes. I didn't want to just open doors without a search warrant or permission given by the owner.\" He managed a grin.[/color]\n\n[color=#a40000]“You look nervous. What’s up?” Zouge said, looking through her communicator at her friend. She was cleaning off her makeup for the night, head tilted to the side as she lowered a cotton ball from her eyelid. \n\n“I brought… someone home.” \n\n“Oh? How’s he? What’s his name? You fall for him already?” She chuckled, but Zhadow only frowned and shook his head. \n\n“I don’t need you fueling odd fantasies. I’m just… trying to screw my head on straight. He’s nice… very much like me.” \n\n“Is that what turns you on? A guy that’s just as busy and serious as you?” \n\n“Zouge…” \n\n“I’m kidding! Well, if you’re so nervous, just remember the worst that can happen is that he leaves unsatisfied. You’re worried over nothing… be yourself.” The advice sounded like something you’d hear someone tell an adolescent. He felt somewhat mocked, rolling his eyes. “Seriously… I know you’ve been looking for someone… If this doesn’t work out, there’s always more.”\n\n“I guess, yeah. I should go though, I have him waiting in the living room… rude of me.” \n\n“Do you feel better from my vaaast words of wisdom?” \n\n“Like a million bucks.” With that Zouge chuckled, said her good nights and ended the call. Zhadow stood up, looking himself over in the mirror and frowned. This was another moment where he was nervous about what may happen. He was never the type to worry too much about these things until they happened. It was odd having interests in others, something he still felt pretty uncomfortable with but he was… attracted. A rare thing as he only felt this way here and there. With a deep breath, he exited the bathroom, walking towards the main room only to hear dishes being put away. He frowned… who would ever… do someone’s dishes when visiting?? \n\nHe came to peek around the corner, seeing Zonic try to figure out the layout of his kitchen. What a sight to behold, his dishes were now clean. Maybe the other had some form of OCD? Or what he just being overly courteous? \n\n“Again with your jokes,” He smiled. “That search warrant isn’t coming anytime soon, mind you. As a guest, you shouldn’t be cleaning at all. But I am grateful, so thank you… just… relax.” He wasn’t about to scold a grown man for cleaning, but he did feel the reminder that Zonic was a guest needed to be said. “Are you thirsty at all? Like I said, I do have some wine we can share… unless you’ve had enough alcohol. Not sure if you’d like to get more, well… drunk tonight.” He looked away, somewhat pink in the cheeks. He was hoping they could at least chat for a while. Even if sex didn’t happen, he didn’t see that as much of a loss. He was more interested in just… talking. But if they did sleep together, it’d be more of a bonus if anything. Maybe Zonic was just as awkward as him and not very sexual to begin with, so maybe the former would happen rather than the latter. [/color]\n[color=#204a87]\nHe put the dishes down next to the sink, apologizing again, quietly. Chaos, he was awkward out of work and outside of his comfort zone. Once again he was offered wine, but for the first time tonight he hesitated. After all he was already plenty drunk and somehow... now, he wanted the night to last a little longer. \"Maybe I shouldn't drink more. I'll just fall asleep on you. If you want someone to share your wine with I can always come over again another time.\" He promised and while walking past Zhadow he took his hand gently coaxing him along to the couch where he sat down.\n\nNow how did this work? You picked someone up or got picked up by someone? Then you went home and... what. What then. Was he supposed to wait for Zhadow to do something. Probably so. After all this was Zhadow's place and the other still seemed so mysterious, even though he felt a lot nicer now than on duty. He still couldn't tell what exactly was going to happen tonight.\n\nHe sat close to the other, heck he wanted to touch him again. Even if it was just a hug. He wanted to touch that silky looking chest fur. Everything about Zhadow spelled out 'comfort' right now and he wanted a piece of it.\n\n\"So... I don't know how this works. I've never been to a bar like that, and I've definitely never been picked up before.\" He started, looking around the Living room. \"I don't know what happens next. But I suppose we can talk Mr. Elite Agent. I'll be so tempted to brag amongst our female staff that I've seen your house from the inside. But then I couldn't explain how I got here.\" He sat sideways, one arm on the backrest of the couch and his head leaning in his hand. He was comfortable here. The place was warm and Zhadow was good company.\n\n\"Also if... you want more than talk... which I assume is how this works, I... suppose I don't mind.\" He clarified, his voice a lot quieter and his cheeks were gaining colour again. In all honesty he kind of wanted to do it for multiple reasons. For one because he wanted to know what sex with someone who wasn't a savage brute felt like. Second because he wanted to stop thinking about said savage brute already. And third because... Zhadow was... nice. More than nice. Now that he could look at men as potential partners he could without a doubt say that Zhadow was attractive. Everything about him seemed perfect and it was endearing that someone so perfect looking was actually a little nervous, too. At least he wasn't alone.\n\n\"I just want to stop thinking, today. Well. I can think about you, just not about... whatever awaits me at home.\"[/color]\n\n[color=#a40000]“I didn’t know it had to work a certain way.” He said, not meaning any sarcasm behind it, but Zonic’s fear seemed to stem from this being his first time. “Honestly, this is the one time we don’t have to follow some routine. Just act natural.” He leaned back on the couch, turning himself slightly to face the other as he crossed his arms. “I would.. Much rather they not know. I guess it’s just a privacy thing, but my work and personal life are very separate… It seems you’re just very lucky to catch me while off duty, not that it’s bad.” He felt a bit… well, mean having said that. He didn’t mean it in a way that Zonic was only here out of pure luck, but Zhadow knew he wouldn’t suddenly invite the other over unless they were working on a case together which would probably never happen due to him being an Elite. \n\nThe mention of his home was somewhat interesting. Zhadow was never the type to pry, and his curiosity over other people’s lives never peaked unless he took a great interest in it. For Zonic he could say it was … something to ask about, but not too much. If Zhadow was pretty quiet about himself, it wouldn’t be fair to ask so much. Still… \n\n“You keep mentioning home. Is something going on?” He asked, though it was more in a way to console and not snoop. He was somewhat concerned, as maybe home life was becoming difficult? He knew nothing about Zonic besides them working in similar fields. Everything beyond that had no real stake in the ground, it was all a mystery. For all he knew, Zonic had a shitty roommate or nagging parents. Maybe he had terrible neighbors or his love life was in shambles, it could be many things. “You don’t have to tell me. I’m perfectly fine with being your distraction for the night. We can ignore it completely… and for the record, talking isn’t our only option. I suppose you being here has made that quite clear, but however the night turns out, I’m fine with.” \n\nThis felt like he was trying to set up his love life as some kind of odd interview, or he was just trying to go for what zonic was probably expecting. He couldn’t really tell if the other wanted to just chat or fuck more. It wasn’t an issue regardless of the choice, but he did hope for a fact that whichever it was, the outcome was enjoyable. He also couldn’t help but feel a tinge of happiness that a ‘next time’ could happen. [/color]\n\n[color=#204a87]His ears drooped slightly at the question and he averted his eyes. \"Let's just say... I have a... complicated roommate. Complicated in more ways than you may think. He came to live with me a little over a month ago and ever since then my life has been... chaotic. There is a lot to it... I don't really want to get into detail or I'll talk myself into a bad mood. I was ready to drown myself in alcohol today after all.\" He gave Zhadow a crooked grin. \"You know I'm surprised. The two times our departments overlapped and we worked together I got the impression you're an efficient but pretty cold guy. No one can do your job better than you can but everyone around you seemed to be keeping a safe distance. You have this unapproachable aura. And now you're... really comfortable to be around... and warm.\"\n\nChaos, he was tempted to stretch out his hand and touch that tuft of soft white fur on the other's chest. It was almost impossible to resist. \"Apologies, I'm drunk and this is too tempting.\" He chuckled, reaching out. Running his fingers through the soft fur made him chuckle. \"So soft.\" It was just as silky as it looked. He was a bit embarrassed but too drunk to really care.\n\n\"I'm still surprised you weren't swarmed by men in that bar... I mean look at you.\" He said smiling, his eyes were still on his own hand running through the soft fur. He wanted to keep touching it. He wanted to be comforted physically. Somehow. Just be close to someone who -wanted- to be close to him. Be -wanted- by someone. \"Please imagine this is the alcohol talking... I know we've... pretty much just met and all and I'm happy just talking about whatever all night... but can I come closer?\"\n\nNow his face was deep red again now. Oh really, what did he have to lose. In the worst case Zhadow would say no or throw him out. He had nothing to lose. Nothing at all.[/color]\n\n[color=#a40000]Upon hearing about Zonic’s home troubles, it seemed it was best to leave that topic where it was left. Zonic had mentioned what he wanted and seemed more than upset that it was a thing he had to deal with at all, so Zhadow decided to keep his questions to himself. If he could, he would just pat the other on the shoulder and apologize that some roomies could be outright unbelievable. If he wasn’t mistakened, a month was also the time frame Zonic mentioned ‘figuring out’ certain things, such as having a sexuality that he wasn’t aware of, hence coming to the gay bar. There were more than enough things to assume, the biggest being that this roommate could’ve been a difficult lover… but he didn’t let the thought fester, as it was in and out of his mind at the snap of the fingers. \n\nHe got that a lot. Not many did approach him simply because he just seemed like a very brooding individual that didn’t care about other people’s opinions. Sure, he was pretty aloof and not super interested in others and what they had to say sometimes, but he didn’t much mind being spoken to and also somewhat enjoyed small talk. By default, Zhadow was very quiet, having very few things to say unless he needed to speak up. He didn’t feel it was necessary to use his voice if he had nothing to contribute. One on one was a different story. He was fine with this, not really minding answering questions or posing a few himself. He looked down, it was slightly sad, maybe his fur colors and patterns just warded people off. Black wasn’t exactly the warmest or most inviting color, mixed with such a vibrant red which could easily unsettle some. \n\n“I’m… just not a very social person I suppose.” He said, nearly cut off by zonic touching his chest. He blinked, looking down at the hands that feathered through his chest fur. He wasn’t very embarrassed, but this was something he didn’t expect. He had on a low v-neck, the most comfortable shirt when he had a tuft of hair that stood out. He looked at Zonic’s expression, drunk or not, he was definitely into the idea of touch. Zhadow didn’t mind, gently taking Zonic by the arms and pulled him closer. “It’s fine with me.” He said, now beginning to assume that touching his chest wasn’t the end of it. He had a moment, trying to decide if it was alright to move this further. He frowned, starting to feel his cheeks heat up just a bit. “Do you… want to um,” He huffed, such a question was odd, but this was a thing he’s done before. Maybe it was because Zonic was a lot more awkward about it, or maybe it’s because they were coworkers. He couldn’t put his finger on it, but he decided that he wanted this. \n\n“Would you like to have...sex…” [/color]\n\n[color=#204a87]Zonic felt some warm ticklish feeling spread through his body when he was pulled in closer. He was about to get really flustered about all of this but Zhadow's awkward question saved him. He laughed, placing a hand on Zhadow's cheek. \"You're bad at this. I'm glad I'm not the only one.\" He ran his thumb over the darker muzzle and looked into Zhadow's eyes directly. What a beautiful shade of red. \"I would have been fine with a hug... but how can I say no to such a beautifully worded inquiry.\" His voice got quieter by the end of the sentence and with a wide smile and quite a bit more confidence than before the other's awkward question.\n\nStill something told him Zhadow was not going to be awkward in bed. No, he was pretty convinced the dark hedgehog knew exactly what he was doing once it got down to it. He was just testing the waters now. Being careful. A gentleman. So different from Scourge. So very different than... no don't even think about him. Just don't. He wanted to focus on Zhadow now.\n\n\"No matter how awkward, though, you're a blessing tonight. Next time... let's drink your wine together more slowly, with a better base mood, and talk...\" His voice was so low by now it would hardly be audible for anyone further away from him than Zhadow. He brushed his lips over the other's his hand combed through Zhadow's fur and spines and came to a rest on the back of the other's head. And while he wrapped his second arm around Zhadow's neck as well he closed his eyes and finally kissed him. This was so warm. So soft. His kiss was gentle and chaste for now. Just brushing his lips over the other's, gently pressing them against each other and tugging on Zhadow's lips with his own.\n\nHe was smiling again as he broke the series of small kisses, though his muzzle was still touching Zhadow's and he opened his eyes only just enough to be able to look at the other. \"I'm not entirely new to this... so you can do whatever you want.\" Honestly he seriously doubted he had anything to worry about. If he could allow Scourge to do whatever he wanted and survive, then this was completely safe.[/color]\n\n[color=#a40000]The overall confidence in the way Zonic acted was unexpected but quickly welcomed as the distance between them slowly closed. Zhadow felt his own awkward facade fade when Zonic kissed him. It was probably the softest, most innocent kiss he’d ever receive, even more softer than his first and that was a rather awkward exchange. He clamped his eyes shut, a spark of surprise which quickly melted into acceptance that this could actually be rather nice. Nicer than he assumed, anyway. Zhadow was very quick to respond, tilting his head just a bit to get a better angle, but goodness, he really liked that Zonic’s hands were already on him. The inexperience was pretty telling, even though Zonic was still not entirely new to this but there was still this air about him that spelled ‘once or twice’ as far as his past times went. He just assumed that could’ve been the number but didn’t mind it at all. It was probably the very aura of ‘innocent’ that captivated him for that very small moment. The kisses came in, each had their own flare of ‘cute’ exhuberating from them. He even felt himself chuckle at the way the small smooches played off the other’s lips. It felt like he was 16 all over again, rediscovering himself with an equally confused friend who also felt similar. \n\nThe visit for next time felt like it was definitely set to happen again, but how soon it’d come felt like a hazy event that was clouded over by dark shadows. He wasn’t sure when he’d be up for another night together, knowing his schedule could get hectic or he’d be out all night following a suspect. There was no telling and his first night alone in weeks just so happened to be tonight. It was lucky, a coincidence that he was rather thankful for. Zonic was also a blessing, though it felt somewhat cheesy to echo that. \n\n“I look forward to it… I suppose now we have a reason to exchange numbers.” Zouge and Zomega were probably the only two agents in his department that he shared his number with. They were his closest friends, despite one being a robot with a rather fantastic AI. He never saw it as a bad thing or a handicap, as Zomega definitely kept things fresh with his riveting personality. Zouge of course, was in a category on her own, though constantly mistakened for his girlfriend or something who everyone around them seemed to think would be his future wife. It was annoying but he lived with it just fine. Adding another person to that roster wasn’t so bad. “Not to.. Discourage or poke fun, but you kiss like a highschool boy… haha. There’s such an innocence about you, though I’m afraid I may be wrong.”\n\nAnd that he was sure to figure out the more they did this. Though his words had to sit on the backburner again, he shouldn’t be talking so much when he posed the question for intercourse. He was not used to having someone to chat with like this so much, again, his two friends whom he worked with were his main source of socializing, and even then he wasn’t a chatterbox. Maybe Zonic was just… easy to communicate with it seemed. He wasn’t about to go soul searching for why ,so he kissed him again. Too many thoughts could be dangerous, so he decided to stop thinking and start doing. \n\nHis hands now had their turn and being placed on the blue cop’s hips, his body leaning toward him as their chests touched ever so slightly. He began to show how much experience he really did have. Though maybe it didn’t amount to Scourge who seemed to have a new girl every time he was spotted, prior to prison of course. But from Zhadow’s small choice picks of guys that he had intimate moments with, 3 to be exact, not including Zonic, those 3  guys were somewhat frequent through the last couple of years. Zhadow’s approach was sweet, passionate yet also safe. He didn’t overstep his boundaries yet, but his hands rubbed in all the right places, slowly squeezing Zonic’s hips before slowly moving up his shirt. His hands were soft, quick but never too rough. He was already pulling the other’s shirt off, placing it on the floor, and now Zonic was underneath him, laying back on the couch while Zhadow removed his own. \n\nThis was going to be a nice time, he could feel it. The light in the living room was rather dim, not shining too brightly but dark enough where the emerald green in Zonic’s eyes almost glowed. It was mesmerizing. \n\n“Is it.. Odd I never noticed how gorgeous you were until now? I suppose I wasn’t really paying attention.. Hitting on my coworkers conflicts with things so…” He lowered himself, returning the favor by rubbing at Zonic’s chest. He ended up finding his nipples, which he thumbed over, hoping for a reaction. “This isn’t the alcohol talking by the way.” [/color]\n[color=#204a87]\nZhadow's teasing words made Zonic grin. \"You're so wrong.\" He mumbled before he was kissed again. He didn't mind the teasing. After all Zhadow had a good point. The one time that Zonic had been allowed to take charge of things he had to be as soft and gentle as possible to calm Scourge down. Zhadow, on the other hand wasn't traumatized. He was open and warm and welcoming and oh so gentle.\n\nZonic felt a surge of heat rushing through his body at the hands on his hip, his tail twitched and he pressed his lips against Zhadow's a little firmer than before. The fingers on his fur and skin knew exactly where and how to touch and Zonic already knew he was going to melt into a puddle in no time at all. He pressed a kiss to Zhadow's chin and then to his neck making a small noise at claws ghosting over a particularly sensitive spot that he hadn't even known was there.  \"Mnh~ Well I guess... compared to you I'm probably really inexperienced... so you're only half wrongmh~\"\n\nHe willingly let the other turn him over once his shirt was gone. Spreading his legs automatically to make space for the dark hedgehog he enjoyed the view. Watching as Zhadow pulled his shirt off felt like he should be averting his eyes. But he didn't. He drank in the sight. His eyes briefly closed at the sensation of thumbs running over his nipples, followed by a small gasp and shiver. They were sensitive alright. Yet another spot he felt nothing at when he touched it himself. But with Scourge's or Zhadow's hands on them he felt heat rise in his cheeks and lower regions of his body.\n\nWhat really got him however were Zhadow's words. Gorgeous. His ears flattened against his head submissively and he averted his eyes. He knew he wasn't ugly. Sure. But he'd never been called gorgeous before. Not in a situation like that especially. And then his heart stopped for a second only to make a flip and carry on beating at the speed of sound. \"This isn't the alcohol talking by the way.\" That flipped a switch somewhere in his subconscious. These words. They were the exact words he wanted to hear most. His eyes were wide now, completely focused on Zhadow and just a little more shiny than before. Zonic reached out for the dark one with both hands, cupping his cheeks and pulling him closer so he could run his hands into his spines again. \"If you were sober... would you still want me?\" He was aware that this was a strange question. \"Do you want me?\" He swallowed and sealed Zhadow's lips before he could get a reply. This kiss was much less chaste than the last one. It was more than obvious that something had changed. He opened his lips, luring Zhadow's tongue into his own mouth. Zhadow tasted so good. Despite the fact that there was a strong taste of alcohol he enjoyed it.\n\nHis hands were running down the other's back, fingers sliding in between spines. The kiss had to be broken so he could catch his breath, but he gently pulled on Zhadow's bottom lip with his teeth. He wanted to be told more. He wanted to be told that he was gorgeous, and desirable. That he wasn't just a means to help with sexual frustration and only when drunk. He wanted to be told by someone like Zhadow. Someone who could probably have whomever he picked.\n\nWhen he finally let go of Zhadow enough to let him sit up again Zonic's expression had changed completely. His attention was on Zhadow 100%. He wanted more of this hedgehog above him. He wanted to be marked by him in all the obvious places. He wanted to mark him, too, though it wouldn't be visible through the dark fur. He wanted to taste him. This was pretty much the only thing he'd been genuinely praised for so far, so he knew he had to be at least decent at it.\n\nZonic ran one finger down Zhadow's body until he reached the waistband of his pants hooking his finger into it while his eyes were still fixated on Zhadow's. \"I don't have much experience...but there's one thing I'm confident I can do... \" Now he'd probably have looked much cooler if not for his deep red cheeks and ears.[/color]\n\n[center][b]TBC.[/b][/center]\n","writing_bbcode_parsed":"
CHAPTER XXIV


Having known -of- Zonic was completely different than actually getting to know him at this time. He didn’t expect such jokes, which actually got him chuckling here and there. Being poked at in such a way felt endearing, he felt nice. He leaned forward a bit, having Zonic’s arms around his neck felt really warm. He didn’t pull back or fight the other off, getting close was comfortable so far. Zhadow couldn’t help but place his hands on Zonic’s hips, though he was being modest by settling them a bit higher than most. This was okay to do so far, and Zonic seemed to be catching on. That red face of his definitely said so.

“I’m thinking of going to my place. Maybe have some wine to help end the night nicely. Maybe you’d like to join me.” He lowered his eyelids, staring directly into the emerald eyes of the other. “You don’t have to say yes. I’m just… interested, I guess. You’re lucky… I don’t normally pick others up so quickly but you’re someone I kind of work with..” He shrugged. “Didn’t think you’d be into men, but I suppose that’s not something to be questioning, given our position as of now. If you want… I could drive us there, bring you back by morning, unless you work tomorrow.” It wasn’t odd to ask, but he did feel a bit ahead of himself.

Again, the music seemed to mute all else. He could kind of understand how others forgot their surroundings and just let loose. He was tempted to look over at the bartender just to get some kind of moral support with a grin or a thumbs up. Despite that, he couldn’t look away from Zonic, mostly due to his anticipation for an answer, but Chaos, he was very cute. Taking the other back to his place sounded like an okay option, but how far would they go. He wasn’t yet in need of sex, but it’d be interesting to see that side of his fellow officer. It was a private matter that he didn’t engage in as often as he’d liked but he wasn’t much of a sex hungry fiend. Zhadow knew that sex was great and all but he just liked having a very mellow companion. He was yet to find someone that was just as calm about the subject, as most people wanted to fuck every night. He didn’t think he could handle that too much. Was he getting ahead of himself thinking this way? If they did have a one night stand, maybe it’d just be that. He was sure they’d be too busy to constantly visit one another, but it could work out. They worked in the same building, but on different levels and separate fields. He was an elite, and as much as Zonic seemed to fit that description, Zonic was in a lower department, still a very good cop.

A bummer though, he sort of felt sad this may not happen so easily, but it didn’t hurt to try. If he was shot down, then it was fine. It just… made some sense in his head but he wasn’t determined to make Zonic all his. Not unless they played off each other properly.

Zonic swallowed and didn't quite know where to look. Of course he couldn't look like a coward so he forced himself to look into Zhadow's eyes. There it was. Zhadow the mysterious elite soldier was actively picking him up. Asking him to come to his house. For wine. And to stay the night. There was no doubt in Zonic's mind what all of that meant.

It took him a moment to answer. He felt drawn to the striped hedgehog. He wanted to see what'd happen. It felt so -good- to be wanted. It felt so incredibly good it made his heart want to explode. Zonic couldn't even comprehend it properly yet. Zhadow of all people, someone he deeply respected in a work setting, -wanted- him. After years of not caring about anyone at all and one month being shot down time and time again... finally, someone wanted him. Not just his mouth. But him. As a person. To just be around and drink some wine and who knew what else could happen.

"I'd be happy to join you." He said quietly. His cheeks and ears were still red. Where was this going to lead. What was going to happen? "I'm honored." He chuckled, but it was true. He did feel slightly honored for being given this kind of attention so willingly. "And... I didn't think I was into -anyone- until about a month ago... but a lot happened since then. And driving me back by morning sounds... good. I've been forced to take my vacation. Too much overtime. I have this case I really want to close and... I overdid it, I suppose." He sighed quietly. "It's a running gag in my department that I'm married to my work and live in my office." He gave Zhadow a crooked smile.

For a moment there was silence again as they swayed to the music. Now that he'd been invited home he felt like it was safe to get a little closer. He needed the comfort of another body. No matter in what way. So he stepped just a little closer until there wasn't much space left between them. In fact it was so little space that he could feel the dark hedgehog's body heat spreading to his own body. Their noses were nearly touching.

"I'm looking forward to seeing how the mysterious Zhadow the Elite agent lives." He could talk more quietly now that they were so close. And hell for all he cared they could get even closer. Ha. Oh how he wished Scourge would feel jealous too. Then at least it'd be fair. No. Stop. No more thinking about Scourge while Zhadow was right in front of him. -That- wasn't fair.

So Zonic wasn’t too different from himself, unable to really part with his labors, having to submerge himself fully into the work he signed up for. He could definitely understand, as it was a very important part of his life and Zonic could relate. It felt nice that someone else would understand to a certain degree, as he was no stranger to such comments by others within in his department. They never phased him, as he was dedicated because he felt the work he did made a difference. Zhadow was a very great addition to the team, as he wasn’t as emotionally driven as some other cops, being able to negotiate and act on logic rather than allow his feelings get in the way. It was something he wondered about, how he was able to even do things some others just couldn’t fathom doing thanks to their emotional connections.

Still, it was… well, nice. Zonic was interested, surprised and quite happy to be invited. It was pretty adorable, how shy he seemed. Out of the office, was he normally this endearing? Zhadow felt he was getting ahead of himself. Sure, Zonic was definitely a looker, but was he really someone to get so head over heels for so soon? Zhadow felt himself mentally laughing at his eagerness to really get to know the other. Without much warning, Zhadow took Zonic by the hands and began walking towards the bar. He gave the bartender to correct amount of cash for both their drinks, smiling as he left. Taking his companion out to the parking lot, he unlocked the door after searching for his keys.

“Did you run or drive here? I can come back to fetch your car later… you’re in no condition to drive.” That was if things went… well. With all that in mind, he got into the driver’s seat, buckling up and starting up the vehicle. Zhadow was a pretty good driver, not too fast or too slow. His music was whatever was on the radio, any new station that wasn’t just a mass of static. Driving over to his place took no time at all. He lived in a small gated community with townhomes inside. His neighbors were rather young college kids that could be loud sometimes, but he didn’t mind much. They got back in line whenever he was around, since he was a cop and all.

Leading the way over to his front door, he looked back at zonic and then the door.

“I sort of forgot to clean up the kitchen so there’s a few dirty dishes in the sink. Hope you’re okay with that… Just um… take off your shoes before you step on the carpet, okay?” He opened the door, removing his shoes and setting them off to the side. His coat was hung up and the light was turned on. His place was pretty basic itself, only there was a tad bit more personality in it. His walls weren’t as bland as Zonic’s as there were framed posters of certain bands and movies he enjoyed, some plants strewn throughout the hallways and walls and some knick knacks that varied from silver or gold in color.

The carpet was super soft, the furniture in his home was obviously expensive stuff, Zhadow didn’t seem to care for anything less than that and thankfully he made enough money to keep up such a lifestyle.

“Feel free to get comfortable. I trust you’re not some wild card when off the job. There’s refreshments in the fridge. If you’ll excuse me, I need to visit the restroom.” He felt a tad bit embarrassed, moving onward to the bathroom and shut the door. Zhadow was mostly hoping for this to go smoothly… he pulled the toilet seat cover down and sat on it, contacting Zouge, hoping to get some kind of moral support for this. Why was he suddenly on edge.

Zonic was pulled out of the bar before he even really realised that Zhadow just paid for all his drinks. Definitely not okay. He was going to pay that back later. "I came by car but it's fine. Just leave it I'll go fetch it when I'm sober again." He said shrugging his shoulders. And then he was in Zhadow's car and they were driving. He hardly even heard the music on the radio, but instead he tried to memorize the way to Zhadow's house.

The house itself was... expensive. Well mostly on the inside, but everything here looked like it cost a lot of money. He sat down to strip off his shoes just in case. The whiskey went to his head but he wasn't swaying yet or anything. Still, it was safer to do things sitting down. The carpet felt so soft he wanted to take off his socks to feel it properly. "You have it nice..." he noted while looking around. Posters. Potted plants. Zonic cringed at the thought of his very dead and forgotten balcony plants. "I can never keep plants alive, I'm not at home enough and then I forget."

Zhadow showed him around and then excused himself to the bathroom. And suddenly Zonic was alone. Alone and VERY nervous. His focus had shifted. The thought of Scourge doing it with that white fox was still there but... further in the back of his mind. Instead his focus was on the here and now. On being in Zhadow's apartment and on what could happen during the course of the night. He couldn't sit down. Instead he wandered around, into the kitchen to look at the fridge. And he almost felt his cleaning tick set upon seeing the few dirty dishes in the sink. But he couldn't just go and wash somebody else's dishes... could he. For the first time in his life he thought for a moment whether or not this cleaning tick of his was some kind of compulsive disorder.

So he thought as he started to wash the dishes. Great. Zhadow would probably not appreciate this too much but for the moment it calmed him down. Three plates two cups, some spoons, forks and knives and he felt a little better about himself. By the time Zhadow returned he was trying to figure out where everything went without opening any doors or drawers. This wasn't his house after all, he couldn't just open everything.

When Zhadow actually peeked into the kitchen Zonic looked a bit as if he'd just been witnessed committing a crime. "Welcome back. Sorry." He gestured at the dishes. "I clean when I'm nervous... but I don't know where everything goes. I didn't want to just open doors without a search warrant or permission given by the owner." He managed a grin.

“You look nervous. What’s up?” Zouge said, looking through her communicator at her friend. She was cleaning off her makeup for the night, head tilted to the side as she lowered a cotton ball from her eyelid.

“I brought… someone home.”

“Oh? How’s he? What’s his name? You fall for him already?” She chuckled, but Zhadow only frowned and shook his head.

“I don’t need you fueling odd fantasies. I’m just… trying to screw my head on straight. He’s nice… very much like me.”

“Is that what turns you on? A guy that’s just as busy and serious as you?”

“Zouge…”

“I’m kidding! Well, if you’re so nervous, just remember the worst that can happen is that he leaves unsatisfied. You’re worried over nothing… be yourself.” The advice sounded like something you’d hear someone tell an adolescent. He felt somewhat mocked, rolling his eyes. “Seriously… I know you’ve been looking for someone… If this doesn’t work out, there’s always more.”

“I guess, yeah. I should go though, I have him waiting in the living room… rude of me.”

“Do you feel better from my vaaast words of wisdom?”

“Like a million bucks.” With that Zouge chuckled, said her good nights and ended the call. Zhadow stood up, looking himself over in the mirror and frowned. This was another moment where he was nervous about what may happen. He was never the type to worry too much about these things until they happened. It was odd having interests in others, something he still felt pretty uncomfortable with but he was… attracted. A rare thing as he only felt this way here and there. With a deep breath, he exited the bathroom, walking towards the main room only to hear dishes being put away. He frowned… who would ever… do someone’s dishes when visiting??

He came to peek around the corner, seeing Zonic try to figure out the layout of his kitchen. What a sight to behold, his dishes were now clean. Maybe the other had some form of OCD? Or what he just being overly courteous?

“Again with your jokes,” He smiled. “That search warrant isn’t coming anytime soon, mind you. As a guest, you shouldn’t be cleaning at all. But I am grateful, so thank you… just… relax.” He wasn’t about to scold a grown man for cleaning, but he did feel the reminder that Zonic was a guest needed to be said. “Are you thirsty at all? Like I said, I do have some wine we can share… unless you’ve had enough alcohol. Not sure if you’d like to get more, well… drunk tonight.” He looked away, somewhat pink in the cheeks. He was hoping they could at least chat for a while. Even if sex didn’t happen, he didn’t see that as much of a loss. He was more interested in just… talking. But if they did sleep together, it’d be more of a bonus if anything. Maybe Zonic was just as awkward as him and not very sexual to begin with, so maybe the former would happen rather than the latter.

He put the dishes down next to the sink, apologizing again, quietly. Chaos, he was awkward out of work and outside of his comfort zone. Once again he was offered wine, but for the first time tonight he hesitated. After all he was already plenty drunk and somehow... now, he wanted the night to last a little longer. "Maybe I shouldn't drink more. I'll just fall asleep on you. If you want someone to share your wine with I can always come over again another time." He promised and while walking past Zhadow he took his hand gently coaxing him along to the couch where he sat down.

Now how did this work? You picked someone up or got picked up by someone? Then you went home and... what. What then. Was he supposed to wait for Zhadow to do something. Probably so. After all this was Zhadow's place and the other still seemed so mysterious, even though he felt a lot nicer now than on duty. He still couldn't tell what exactly was going to happen tonight.

He sat close to the other, heck he wanted to touch him again. Even if it was just a hug. He wanted to touch that silky looking chest fur. Everything about Zhadow spelled out 'comfort' right now and he wanted a piece of it.

"So... I don't know how this works. I've never been to a bar like that, and I've definitely never been picked up before." He started, looking around the Living room. "I don't know what happens next. But I suppose we can talk Mr. Elite Agent. I'll be so tempted to brag amongst our female staff that I've seen your house from the inside. But then I couldn't explain how I got here." He sat sideways, one arm on the backrest of the couch and his head leaning in his hand. He was comfortable here. The place was warm and Zhadow was good company.

"Also if... you want more than talk... which I assume is how this works, I... suppose I don't mind." He clarified, his voice a lot quieter and his cheeks were gaining colour again. In all honesty he kind of wanted to do it for multiple reasons. For one because he wanted to know what sex with someone who wasn't a savage brute felt like. Second because he wanted to stop thinking about said savage brute already. And third because... Zhadow was... nice. More than nice. Now that he could look at men as potential partners he could without a doubt say that Zhadow was attractive. Everything about him seemed perfect and it was endearing that someone so perfect looking was actually a little nervous, too. At least he wasn't alone.

"I just want to stop thinking, today. Well. I can think about you, just not about... whatever awaits me at home."

“I didn’t know it had to work a certain way.” He said, not meaning any sarcasm behind it, but Zonic’s fear seemed to stem from this being his first time. “Honestly, this is the one time we don’t have to follow some routine. Just act natural.” He leaned back on the couch, turning himself slightly to face the other as he crossed his arms. “I would.. Much rather they not know. I guess it’s just a privacy thing, but my work and personal life are very separate… It seems you’re just very lucky to catch me while off duty, not that it’s bad.” He felt a bit… well, mean having said that. He didn’t mean it in a way that Zonic was only here out of pure luck, but Zhadow knew he wouldn’t suddenly invite the other over unless they were working on a case together which would probably never happen due to him being an Elite.

The mention of his home was somewhat interesting. Zhadow was never the type to pry, and his curiosity over other people’s lives never peaked unless he took a great interest in it. For Zonic he could say it was … something to ask about, but not too much. If Zhadow was pretty quiet about himself, it wouldn’t be fair to ask so much. Still…

“You keep mentioning home. Is something going on?” He asked, though it was more in a way to console and not snoop. He was somewhat concerned, as maybe home life was becoming difficult? He knew nothing about Zonic besides them working in similar fields. Everything beyond that had no real stake in the ground, it was all a mystery. For all he knew, Zonic had a shitty roommate or nagging parents. Maybe he had terrible neighbors or his love life was in shambles, it could be many things. “You don’t have to tell me. I’m perfectly fine with being your distraction for the night. We can ignore it completely… and for the record, talking isn’t our only option. I suppose you being here has made that quite clear, but however the night turns out, I’m fine with.”

This felt like he was trying to set up his love life as some kind of odd interview, or he was just trying to go for what zonic was probably expecting. He couldn’t really tell if the other wanted to just chat or fuck more. It wasn’t an issue regardless of the choice, but he did hope for a fact that whichever it was, the outcome was enjoyable. He also couldn’t help but feel a tinge of happiness that a ‘next time’ could happen.

His ears drooped slightly at the question and he averted his eyes. "Let's just say... I have a... complicated roommate. Complicated in more ways than you may think. He came to live with me a little over a month ago and ever since then my life has been... chaotic. There is a lot to it... I don't really want to get into detail or I'll talk myself into a bad mood. I was ready to drown myself in alcohol today after all." He gave Zhadow a crooked grin. "You know I'm surprised. The two times our departments overlapped and we worked together I got the impression you're an efficient but pretty cold guy. No one can do your job better than you can but everyone around you seemed to be keeping a safe distance. You have this unapproachable aura. And now you're... really comfortable to be around... and warm."

Chaos, he was tempted to stretch out his hand and touch that tuft of soft white fur on the other's chest. It was almost impossible to resist. "Apologies, I'm drunk and this is too tempting." He chuckled, reaching out. Running his fingers through the soft fur made him chuckle. "So soft." It was just as silky as it looked. He was a bit embarrassed but too drunk to really care.

"I'm still surprised you weren't swarmed by men in that bar... I mean look at you." He said smiling, his eyes were still on his own hand running through the soft fur. He wanted to keep touching it. He wanted to be comforted physically. Somehow. Just be close to someone who -wanted- to be close to him. Be -wanted- by someone. "Please imagine this is the alcohol talking... I know we've... pretty much just met and all and I'm happy just talking about whatever all night... but can I come closer?"

Now his face was deep red again now. Oh really, what did he have to lose. In the worst case Zhadow would say no or throw him out. He had nothing to lose. Nothing at all.

Upon hearing about Zonic’s home troubles, it seemed it was best to leave that topic where it was left. Zonic had mentioned what he wanted and seemed more than upset that it was a thing he had to deal with at all, so Zhadow decided to keep his questions to himself. If he could, he would just pat the other on the shoulder and apologize that some roomies could be outright unbelievable. If he wasn’t mistakened, a month was also the time frame Zonic mentioned ‘figuring out’ certain things, such as having a sexuality that he wasn’t aware of, hence coming to the gay bar. There were more than enough things to assume, the biggest being that this roommate could’ve been a difficult lover… but he didn’t let the thought fester, as it was in and out of his mind at the snap of the fingers.

He got that a lot. Not many did approach him simply because he just seemed like a very brooding individual that didn’t care about other people’s opinions. Sure, he was pretty aloof and not super interested in others and what they had to say sometimes, but he didn’t much mind being spoken to and also somewhat enjoyed small talk. By default, Zhadow was very quiet, having very few things to say unless he needed to speak up. He didn’t feel it was necessary to use his voice if he had nothing to contribute. One on one was a different story. He was fine with this, not really minding answering questions or posing a few himself. He looked down, it was slightly sad, maybe his fur colors and patterns just warded people off. Black wasn’t exactly the warmest or most inviting color, mixed with such a vibrant red which could easily unsettle some.

“I’m… just not a very social person I suppose.” He said, nearly cut off by zonic touching his chest. He blinked, looking down at the hands that feathered through his chest fur. He wasn’t very embarrassed, but this was something he didn’t expect. He had on a low v-neck, the most comfortable shirt when he had a tuft of hair that stood out. He looked at Zonic’s expression, drunk or not, he was definitely into the idea of touch. Zhadow didn’t mind, gently taking Zonic by the arms and pulled him closer. “It’s fine with me.” He said, now beginning to assume that touching his chest wasn’t the end of it. He had a moment, trying to decide if it was alright to move this further. He frowned, starting to feel his cheeks heat up just a bit. “Do you… want to um,” He huffed, such a question was odd, but this was a thing he’s done before. Maybe it was because Zonic was a lot more awkward about it, or maybe it’s because they were coworkers. He couldn’t put his finger on it, but he decided that he wanted this.

“Would you like to have...sex…”

Zonic felt some warm ticklish feeling spread through his body when he was pulled in closer. He was about to get really flustered about all of this but Zhadow's awkward question saved him. He laughed, placing a hand on Zhadow's cheek. "You're bad at this. I'm glad I'm not the only one." He ran his thumb over the darker muzzle and looked into Zhadow's eyes directly. What a beautiful shade of red. "I would have been fine with a hug... but how can I say no to such a beautifully worded inquiry." His voice got quieter by the end of the sentence and with a wide smile and quite a bit more confidence than before the other's awkward question.

Still something told him Zhadow was not going to be awkward in bed. No, he was pretty convinced the dark hedgehog knew exactly what he was doing once it got down to it. He was just testing the waters now. Being careful. A gentleman. So different from Scourge. So very different than... no don't even think about him. Just don't. He wanted to focus on Zhadow now.

"No matter how awkward, though, you're a blessing tonight. Next time... let's drink your wine together more slowly, with a better base mood, and talk..." His voice was so low by now it would hardly be audible for anyone further away from him than Zhadow. He brushed his lips over the other's his hand combed through Zhadow's fur and spines and came to a rest on the back of the other's head. And while he wrapped his second arm around Zhadow's neck as well he closed his eyes and finally kissed him. This was so warm. So soft. His kiss was gentle and chaste for now. Just brushing his lips over the other's, gently pressing them against each other and tugging on Zhadow's lips with his own.

He was smiling again as he broke the series of small kisses, though his muzzle was still touching Zhadow's and he opened his eyes only just enough to be able to look at the other. "I'm not entirely new to this... so you can do whatever you want." Honestly he seriously doubted he had anything to worry about. If he could allow Scourge to do whatever he wanted and survive, then this was completely safe.

The overall confidence in the way Zonic acted was unexpected but quickly welcomed as the distance between them slowly closed. Zhadow felt his own awkward facade fade when Zonic kissed him. It was probably the softest, most innocent kiss he’d ever receive, even more softer than his first and that was a rather awkward exchange. He clamped his eyes shut, a spark of surprise which quickly melted into acceptance that this could actually be rather nice. Nicer than he assumed, anyway. Zhadow was very quick to respond, tilting his head just a bit to get a better angle, but goodness, he really liked that Zonic’s hands were already on him. The inexperience was pretty telling, even though Zonic was still not entirely new to this but there was still this air about him that spelled ‘once or twice’ as far as his past times went. He just assumed that could’ve been the number but didn’t mind it at all. It was probably the very aura of ‘innocent’ that captivated him for that very small moment. The kisses came in, each had their own flare of ‘cute’ exhuberating from them. He even felt himself chuckle at the way the small smooches played off the other’s lips. It felt like he was 16 all over again, rediscovering himself with an equally confused friend who also felt similar.

The visit for next time felt like it was definitely set to happen again, but how soon it’d come felt like a hazy event that was clouded over by dark shadows. He wasn’t sure when he’d be up for another night together, knowing his schedule could get hectic or he’d be out all night following a suspect. There was no telling and his first night alone in weeks just so happened to be tonight. It was lucky, a coincidence that he was rather thankful for. Zonic was also a blessing, though it felt somewhat cheesy to echo that.

“I look forward to it… I suppose now we have a reason to exchange numbers.” Zouge and Zomega were probably the only two agents in his department that he shared his number with. They were his closest friends, despite one being a robot with a rather fantastic AI. He never saw it as a bad thing or a handicap, as Zomega definitely kept things fresh with his riveting personality. Zouge of course, was in a category on her own, though constantly mistakened for his girlfriend or something who everyone around them seemed to think would be his future wife. It was annoying but he lived with it just fine. Adding another person to that roster wasn’t so bad. “Not to.. Discourage or poke fun, but you kiss like a highschool boy… haha. There’s such an innocence about you, though I’m afraid I may be wrong.”

And that he was sure to figure out the more they did this. Though his words had to sit on the backburner again, he shouldn’t be talking so much when he posed the question for intercourse. He was not used to having someone to chat with like this so much, again, his two friends whom he worked with were his main source of socializing, and even then he wasn’t a chatterbox. Maybe Zonic was just… easy to communicate with it seemed. He wasn’t about to go soul searching for why ,so he kissed him again. Too many thoughts could be dangerous, so he decided to stop thinking and start doing.

His hands now had their turn and being placed on the blue cop’s hips, his body leaning toward him as their chests touched ever so slightly. He began to show how much experience he really did have. Though maybe it didn’t amount to Scourge who seemed to have a new girl every time he was spotted, prior to prison of course. But from Zhadow’s small choice picks of guys that he had intimate moments with, 3 to be exact, not including Zonic, those 3  guys were somewhat frequent through the last couple of years. Zhadow’s approach was sweet, passionate yet also safe. He didn’t overstep his boundaries yet, but his hands rubbed in all the right places, slowly squeezing Zonic’s hips before slowly moving up his shirt. His hands were soft, quick but never too rough. He was already pulling the other’s shirt off, placing it on the floor, and now Zonic was underneath him, laying back on the couch while Zhadow removed his own.

This was going to be a nice time, he could feel it. The light in the living room was rather dim, not shining too brightly but dark enough where the emerald green in Zonic’s eyes almost glowed. It was mesmerizing.

“Is it.. Odd I never noticed how gorgeous you were until now? I suppose I wasn’t really paying attention.. Hitting on my coworkers conflicts with things so…” He lowered himself, returning the favor by rubbing at Zonic’s chest. He ended up finding his nipples, which he thumbed over, hoping for a reaction. “This isn’t the alcohol talking by the way.”

Zhadow's teasing words made Zonic grin. "You're so wrong." He mumbled before he was kissed again. He didn't mind the teasing. After all Zhadow had a good point. The one time that Zonic had been allowed to take charge of things he had to be as soft and gentle as possible to calm Scourge down. Zhadow, on the other hand wasn't traumatized. He was open and warm and welcoming and oh so gentle.

Zonic felt a surge of heat rushing through his body at the hands on his hip, his tail twitched and he pressed his lips against Zhadow's a little firmer than before. The fingers on his fur and skin knew exactly where and how to touch and Zonic already knew he was going to melt into a puddle in no time at all. He pressed a kiss to Zhadow's chin and then to his neck making a small noise at claws ghosting over a particularly sensitive spot that he hadn't even known was there.  "Mnh~ Well I guess... compared to you I'm probably really inexperienced... so you're only half wrongmh~"

He willingly let the other turn him over once his shirt was gone. Spreading his legs automatically to make space for the dark hedgehog he enjoyed the view. Watching as Zhadow pulled his shirt off felt like he should be averting his eyes. But he didn't. He drank in the sight. His eyes briefly closed at the sensation of thumbs running over his nipples, followed by a small gasp and shiver. They were sensitive alright. Yet another spot he felt nothing at when he touched it himself. But with Scourge's or Zhadow's hands on them he felt heat rise in his cheeks and lower regions of his body.

What really got him however were Zhadow's words. Gorgeous. His ears flattened against his head submissively and he averted his eyes. He knew he wasn't ugly. Sure. But he'd never been called gorgeous before. Not in a situation like that especially. And then his heart stopped for a second only to make a flip and carry on beating at the speed of sound. "This isn't the alcohol talking by the way." That flipped a switch somewhere in his subconscious. These words. They were the exact words he wanted to hear most. His eyes were wide now, completely focused on Zhadow and just a little more shiny than before. Zonic reached out for the dark one with both hands, cupping his cheeks and pulling him closer so he could run his hands into his spines again. "If you were sober... would you still want me?" He was aware that this was a strange question. "Do you want me?" He swallowed and sealed Zhadow's lips before he could get a reply. This kiss was much less chaste than the last one. It was more than obvious that something had changed. He opened his lips, luring Zhadow's tongue into his own mouth. Zhadow tasted so good. Despite the fact that there was a strong taste of alcohol he enjoyed it.

His hands were running down the other's back, fingers sliding in between spines. The kiss had to be broken so he could catch his breath, but he gently pulled on Zhadow's bottom lip with his teeth. He wanted to be told more. He wanted to be told that he was gorgeous, and desirable. That he wasn't just a means to help with sexual frustration and only when drunk. He wanted to be told by someone like Zhadow. Someone who could probably have whomever he picked.

When he finally let go of Zhadow enough to let him sit up again Zonic's expression had changed completely. His attention was on Zhadow 100%. He wanted more of this hedgehog above him. He wanted to be marked by him in all the obvious places. He wanted to mark him, too, though it wouldn't be visible through the dark fur. He wanted to taste him. This was pretty much the only thing he'd been genuinely praised for so far, so he knew he had to be at least decent at it.

Zonic ran one finger down Zhadow's body until he reached the waistband of his pants hooking his finger into it while his eyes were still fixated on Zhadow's. "I don't have much experience...but there's one thing I'm confident I can do... " Now he'd probably have looked much cooler if not for his deep red cheeks and ears.

TBC.

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