Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

“I got the promotion!” 

Persephone throws the door open, tugging her son out of the bright sunlight and into the cool interior of the cottage. “Well done, Zagreus! I’m so proud of you. Welcome home.” She wraps her arms around him, kissing both blushing cheeks in turn and ruffling his hair like he’s still eight years old. “You need a haircut.”

She releases him and glides through the cosy living room towards the kitchen. Zag follows, watching her open the fridge to retrieve a jug of fresh pomegranate lemonade, crossing the kitchen to pour two tall glasses.

“It’s just about long enough for a ponytail, Mama. I might keep growing it.” He grabs the condensation beaded glass, swallowing the delicious nectar thirstily. “I missed your lemonade so much. Lemon tree doing well, then?”

“Yes, it is. Back to your hair.” Zag groans cheekily, grabbing for the other glass and grinning when his mother slaps his hand away, gesturing to the overlong strands framing his face. “Chief stewards on luxury yachts shouldn’t have ponytails, surely?”

Zag pours himself another glass. “Come on. So long as I look well groomed, no-one will mind if I have a ponytail. You remember Poseidon, right? He’s the Captain and he has a ponytail and a giant beard.”

“Fine, fine.” Persephone opens the fridge and pulls out a cucumber, a fat brown onion, and a brown paper parcel. “Go pick a few tomatoes? And bring your case inside. I’ll start your laundry after lunch.”

“Mama, I’m twenty five years old, I can do my own laundry. I came home to see you, not to get my laundry done.” Zag kisses his mother’s smooth cheek before striding over to the back door.

“You might be twenty five years old, but you’re still my baby, and I like looking after you. You spend all your working time looking after your clients, let me spoil you a little.” She slices the onion deftly into slim crescents, dropping them into a worn earthenware bowl that has cradled thousands of salads in its lifetime. “Go on, get the tomatoes, you must be hungry.”

Zag steps out into the sunlight, smiling as it kisses his tanned skin. He adores being outside, in the sun and the fresh air, the endless, perfect blue sky stretching out far above his head. He makes his way slowly down the path, breathing in the scents of the abundant plants and flowers growing in his mother’s garden, meandering between the neatly tended beds to the tomato plants. He stops, closing his eyes and breathing in the warm, rich aroma before stepping forward to pluck three plump tomatoes from the vine. He raises one to his nose, amazed at how good the ripe, sun warmed fruit smells compared to the tomatoes they stock on the yacht. They might be high quality, dutifully picked up fresh at every port, but they are nothing compared to freshly picked tomatoes from his mother’s garden.

He wanders back, slipping off his sandals to walk barefoot across the springy green grass, smiling as the lush green blades tickle the soles of his feet. The sun is high overhead, a light breeze whispering through the trees surrounding his childhood home in a way which feels comfortingly familiar. Zag sighs contentedly, letting his worries about work and his new role slip away into the sultry air.

“Took you long enough, did you get lost?” Persephone comments with a wry smile, taking the tomatoes from his hands and chopping them efficiently into juicy chunks. She drops them into the bowl, already two thirds full with onion, cucumber and olives, and drizzles a steady stream of olive oil on top of the glistening pile. A handful of fresh oregano, finely shredded and scattered, a quick mix with her worn wooden spoon, and the salad is nearly ready. Zag watches as his mother unwraps a block of feta cheese, crumbling it between her nimble fingers into the bowl. His mouth floods, already anticipating the tangy cheese on his tongue, followed by mellow sweet tomatoes, sharp onions, crisp cucumber and rich olives. 

Persephone carries the bowl over to the kitchen table, already neatly set with two plates and two sets of gleaming silverware. Zag follows, bringing the jug of lemonade and their glasses. They sit down, and Zag’s fingers automatically seek out the Z carved onto the underside of the scuffed wooden table. Still there, still unknown; a secret, familiar anchor to his childhood.

Is there anything more wonderful than returning home to be coddled and cared for after weeks away working? Zag can’t think of anything better. He’s lucky enough to have plenty to be thankful for in his life - good friends, a good job, his health and his mother close by. Sure, there are things he’d like to have. Enough money to rent a place of his own, for the times when the yacht is docked. A long term relationship, someday. Someone to come home to, although he’s not quite sure how a relationship would work given that his job takes him around the Mediterranean for weeks at a time. Even so, he counts his blessings every day, appreciating the simple tranquillity of his life, determined to be grateful for what he has.

“Thanks, Mama. Missed your cooking.” Zag heaps salad onto his mother’s plate first before piling his own plate high. He takes a soft, puffy pitta from the basket and tears a chunk off, his mouth already watering.

“This is hardly cooking, Zagreus. Wait til dinnertime, I’ve got chicken marinating in the fridge for souvlaki. Hope it’s still your favourite.” Persephone spears a chunk of tomato, popping it into her mouth and chewing thoughtfully.

“You’re the best,” Zag mumbles through a mouthful of salad and bread.

“So tell me, this promotion. What does it mean, exactly, for what you do on the boat?”

“On the yacht. She’s not a boat, she’s a yacht.”

“Semantics.” Persephone waves her hand dismissively. “What will you be doing on the yacht now?”

“Well, moving from steward to chief steward means that I’ll be overseeing all the interior operations. Managing the interior team, liaising with the guests, filling in wherever needed depending on what’s happening onboard. I’m glad I finally finished my sommelier course last year, I’ll be advising on wine as well.” Zag takes a sip of lemonade and reaches for another pitta. 

“Sounds like a lot of responsibility. I can see why they promoted you, you’re so good with people.” Persephone smiles proudly.

“I guess so. Let’s see how the first few weeks go. The last chief steward used to handle all the most demanding guests, she said some weeks she barely slept. Guests wanting their air conditioning adjusted in the middle of the night, or calling for tea because they can’t sleep. I’m used to the ones who stay up all night partying and the stewards have to pour their drinks until they pass out or stagger back to their cabins. Not so much the VIPs who want a personal servant on call at all hours.”

“You must have some stories, agori mou.” Persephone pushes the last of the salad onto Zag’s plate.

“Yeah. Not that I’d ever tell anyone outside the business any of them. We’re only as trustworthy as we are discreet, after all.”

“Very honourable. So tell me, what are you planning on doing with your time off? Not stay at home with your very boring mother, I expect?”

Zag laughs. “I love hanging around with you. I’m guessing you have some beds that need digging or something?” Persephone beams at him. “Okay, a little bit of hanging around at home then. I thought I’d head out with Evgenis, Angelina and Miltos for drinks tonight, if that’s alright with you.”

“Of course. After dinner, though. You mustn’t go drinking on an empty belly.”

“As if I’d skip your souvlaki to go drinking. You done?” Zag gestures to Persephone’s empty plate.

“Yes. Go get your laundry, I’ll clear up.” 

“The laundry can wait.” Zag stacks the plates quickly, settling the empty salad bowl on top carefully. “Why don’t you go sit in the garden and I’ll make us another jug of lemonade?”

“If you insist. Only three lemons, remember.”

Zag looks back over his shoulder as he puts the dirty plates into the sink. “Mama, don’t insult me, that was years ago.”

Persephone smiles as she slips her feet into her sandals. “I’ll never forget how the smile fell from your face when you tasted your creation and found it undrinkable. Adorable boy.”

Zag squirts washing up liquid into the sink and turns on the tap. “And I’ll never forget how you drank an entire glass and smiled through it.”

"You tried so hard. Like you always do."

Zag shoos his mother out of the kitchen and plunges his hands into the soapy water to wash the dishes. He leaves them to dry in the rack beside the sink, rinsing the simple glass jug and setting it next to a clean chopping board. He prepares the lemonade carefully, as he’s done a million times before, knowing that even though he’s replicating his mother’s recipe, it won’t taste as good as the lemonade she makes herself. He tips in some fresh pomegranate juice, stirring gently so the red liquid disperses in the pale lemonade, lending it the slightest pink hue. 

He carries the jug and their glasses outside, setting them down on the wooden table nestled in the shade of a pomegranate tree, a few ripe fruits still decorating the higher branches. His mother kneels on a padded mat by one of her vegetable beds, carefully pulling weeds from the rich brown earth. Always so busy, his mama, never taking time to sit down and rest.

“Can I help you? Or do you want me to get the ladder and pick the rest of the poms from the trees?”

“If you don’t mind harvesting the last of the poms, Zagreus, I’d appreciate it.”

“Alright. Lemonade’s here if you’re thirsty.”

It’s sweaty work, dragging the ladder from tree to tree, climbing up into the foliage to free the remaining pomegranates from their stalks, climbing down with an apron bulging with ripe reddish pink fruit. The woven basket in the shade fills up bit by bit until the trees are bare and the sun is nearly at the horizon, the dazzling sunlight mellowing and turning golden as the afternoon begins to fade into evening.

He puts the ladder away in one of the gardening equipment-filled outbuildings, latching the door securely before carrying the brimming basket of pomegranates into the kitchen. 

“So many! I thought I’d managed to get most of them over the past few weeks,” Persephone exclaims, sliding a tray of marinated chicken under the grill. “The souvlaki will be ready in about twenty minutes if you want to shower. I put your bag in your room.”

“Thanks, Mama. Back soon.” He kisses his mother on the cheek and leaves the kitchen.

Half an hour later, he’s showered and dressed in jeans and a rough cotton shirt, the clean white hue contrasting brightly with his tanned skin. His mother pushes him towards the table, ignoring his offers of help as she piles grilled chicken and tomatoes into a pitta bread for him. She sits, watching him stuff the food hungrily into his mouth, eyes closing briefly in delight at the taste of the richly spiced meat.

“Would you like a job on the yacht? No-one cooks like you do,” he mumbles, taking another giant bite.

“Don’t talk with your mouth full, Zagreus, did I teach you nothing? I don’t want to cook for rich people on a fancy boat.” Zag shoots her a look. “I don’t want to cook for rich people on a fancy yacht. I only want to cook for you, agori mou.”

“Awww.” Zag rolls his eyes. “I love you.”

“I love you too. Eat up, I don’t want you rolling home drunk in the middle of the night.” Persephone fetches the platter of grilled chicken, adding another spoonful or two to Zag’s plate. “And if you do roll home drunk in the middle of the night, don’t wake me up. I want to press some apples tomorrow.”

“I’ll be quiet, I promise.” Zag digs into the rest of the food, even though his stomach is already pleasantly full. The food on the yacht is good enough, and sometimes they even get to eat the leftovers of the gourmet stuff Chef makes for the guests, but nothing compares to his mother’s cooking.

She turns down his offer to wash the dishes, insisting he make the most of his time off. He kisses her cheek again before he leaves, marvelling at how her skin seems to get softer and more downy even as the lines of her face deepen with age. 

It’s a long walk down through the town towards his favourite cliff top bar. The evening air is sweet and fragrant with a myriad of herbs and flowers, the salty tang of the sea ever present in the background. The sky glows with streaks of pink, orange and coral, a gorgeous sunset that Zag barely notices. Even Nature’s most beautiful efforts become ordinary, viewed night after night. 

Evgenis and Angelina are sprawled on the sofa in their preferred corner, right next to the glass screens protecting tipsy patrons from the cliff’s edge. Zag spots Miltos at the bar, tucking his wallet into his pocket as the bartender slides four glasses and a bottle of rakomelo towards him. He winces at the sight of the strong spirit; even without knowing about his promotion, his friends have clearly decided that tonight will be a celebration. 

“Let me help, Miltos.” He sidles up to the bar, slapping his friend on the back and grabbing the tumblers, cool and brimming with ice.

“Zag!” Miltos’ deep voice is full of warmth and happiness. “So good to see you, my friend. How’s the boat?”

“The yacht’s good. I got promoted, actually. I’m chief steward now.” Zag grins, the elation of his achievement still fresh and new. 

“Congratulations!” Miltos nudges his shoulder gently. “You’ll have to tell me what that means. I don’t understand you boat people.”

“Congratulations for what?” Angelina says as they approach the table, standing to take a few glasses from Zag. She sets them down on the glass topped steel table, relaxing back into the curved sofa, tucking her legs beneath her. Her dark hair glows with hints of red in the soft light of dusk, her bronzed skin gleaming with the shimmering body oil she’s been using since she was a teenager.

“Zag got promoted. Chief steward.” Miltos grins, pushing his glasses up his nose before he pours measures of rakomelo into the frosty glasses. 

“Oh! Congratulations!” Evgenis leans forward to punch Zag’s shoulder as Angelina gives him a delighted round of applause. “What will you be doing on the boat now?”

“It’s not a boat, it’s a yacht,” Angelina says in a bored monotone, pre-empting Zag’s inevitable correction.

He laughs, taking the proffered glass from Miltos. “Yamas!” They touch their glasses together, sipping their rakomelo. “Nice shirt, Evgenis.”

Evgenis plucks at the collar of the shirt, rubbing the fabric between his finger and thumb. “Oh, thanks. From our new collection. Sustainable fabric in jewel tones created with organic, biodegradable dyes.” Zag nods, admiring the contrast of the rich emerald green against his friend’s dark skin. “Got a ruby red one which’d suit you perfectly, Zag, if you’re interested. Do chief stewards get to wear their own clothes, or will you still be in uniform?”

“Nah, still dark red polo shirts and beige shorts in the day, formal trousers and waistcoat in the evening. No getting away from the uniform onboard, sadly.” Zag smiles.

“Damn. Oh well. So what does a chief steward do, anyway?” Evgenis asks, cradling his glass.

Zag explains the nature of his new role, sipping his drink as he talks, hands gesturing excitedly in the air.

“Nice, congrats.” Angelina grins. “Does this mean we’ll see even less of you?”

“Maybe, I don’t know yet. I’ll have to oversee things like interior maintenance and repairs, so I won’t just leave the yacht when we dock. The next charter is from Friday, so I guess I’ll find out then.” Zag swigs from his glass, enjoying the burn of the rakomelo as it slides down his throat, warming his chest from the inside. “How’s teaching, Miltos? Any kids as mischievous as we were this year?”

“These kids think they know how to play pranks, Zag, but they’ve got nothing on us. One of them even put a whoopee cushion on my chair the other week. So unimaginative.” Miltos grins. “Remember that time Angelina balanced a bucket of water on the door when we had that temporary teacher none of us liked?”

They reminisce, reliving the glories of their school days and conveniently glossing over the detentions and the scoldings. The conversation twists and turns, following tangent after tangent until they’re discussing Evgenis and Angelina’s wedding, only a month away.

“You’ll definitely be there, Zag?” Angelina asks, her head nestled comfortably on Evgenis' shoulder. “And you’re sure you don’t want a plus one?”

“Wouldn’t miss it for the world. Yeah, I’m sure. No time for relationships at the moment, with the promotion and all.”

Evgenis drops a kiss into Angelina’s hair. “You’re missing out. Life is so much more wonderful when you have someone wonderful to share it with.”

“Still plenty of time to find someone wonderful,” Miltos says, refilling their glasses once more. “Not all of us are so lucky that we just happened to find our future spouse while we were still at school.”

“Hey, Miltos, how’s that girl you met when we were here a couple weeks ago? What was her name? Lina?” Angelina asks.

“Oh, it turns out she was only visiting for a month. Spent a couple of nights together, that was it.” Miltos grins. “She was great in bed, but we didn’t have a lot in common. Not really long term material.”

“At least you’re out there meeting people, unlike Zagreus, all lonely on his boat. Probably forgotten how to have sex.” Evgenis winks.

“Yacht,” Miltos and Angelina chorus, dissolving into giggles.

“I’m not lonely! And I totally remember how to have sex. It’s not been that long. There was Diana last summer, and that hot guy on New Year’s Eve. I was so drunk I forgot his name, though,” Zag muses, tapping his glass thoughtfully against his lower lip. “I’m focusing on my career right now. There’ll be time for love later.”

As they slip into a comfortable drunkenness, his friends spend the rest of the evening trying to goad him into talking to various attractive men and women at the bar. The night wears on, and they move to a club, doing shots and dancing til the early hours of the morning. Despite their best efforts, Zag remains blearily focused on spending time with his closest friends instead of flirting. Being single works well for him right now, particularly with a new promotion in a job that takes him away from the island for weeks at a time. 

By the time he stumbles back up the rough path to his mother’s house, he’s just the right side of happy drunk. The night air is still, the moon shining luminous in a sky crammed with twinkling stars. He smiles, full of the satisfaction of a good night out and safe in the knowledge that there’s leftover souvlaki in the fridge to pick at when he gets home.

Chapter Text

“New York, you’ve been amazing. Stay sexy, goodnight!”

The crowd is nearly deafening, cheering and screaming and stomping in the packed stadium. Thanatos strides off stage, taking his position in the wings to wait for the cue for the encore as the fans start chanting his name. A shiver flashes up his spine, not quite the jolt of lightning it used to be, but still thrilling enough. All those people, screaming and yelling for him. He waits until the noise reaches a frenetic peak and his brother slaps his shoulder before loping casually back on stage.

“Alright, New York, fuck the curfew, we’ve got time for one more.”

The crowd scream their approval, thousands of lights twinkling in the darkness as people across the stadium turn on the flashlight on their phones.

“Are you feeling romantic tonight, New York? I know I am.” Than winks and flips his long platinum blonde hair over his shoulder, trusting the camera crew to find the best angle. He slings the strap of his favourite electric guitar around his neck and glances back to the band, poised and ready. He runs his fingers lovingly over the lacquered neck, ready to play the first chord. “This one’s from my first album…” He plays a melancholic set of chords, smirking as the crowd reaches new levels of excitement. “Yeah, you know it. Let’s go.”

He strums the intro softly, pacing around the gigantic stage before coming back to the mic stand. The crowd sings along with him as he works his way through the verse, taking a deep breath as the song slides from soft ballad into rock anthem with a crash of drums into the chorus. 

He puts everything he has into the song, belting out the lyrics with his signature gravelly passion, fingers flying over the fretboard. The crowd sings with him, the stadium filled with voices, guitars, bass and drums. 

When the song flips abruptly back into a soft ballad, and he croaks out the last verse, his voice raw with emotion, he gazes directly into the nearest camera, deliberately softening his eyes so that every last person in the crowd feels like he’s singing for them and them alone. The dazzling lights cut out, plunging the stadium into darkness, and he places his guitar carefully back into its stand before slipping off stage.

“Great show, Than.” Hypnos embraces him. “That’s the tour done. Sell out shows, every single one of them. You did great.”

“Thanks,” Than murmurs, grabbing a bottle of water and twisting the cap off. He drinks thirstily, draining the bottle before crushing it and handing it to Hypnos. “No VIP meet and greets tonight, right?”

“Nope, we planned for you being too tired."

“Thank fuck,” Than mutters, stepping aside for the roadies, already moving towards the stage to break the set.

“You want to shower in the dressing room or head back to the hotel?” Hypnos cracks open another bottle of water, using it to dampen a fresh white towel. He passes it over, watching as Than wipes the sweat from the back of his neck, sighing with relief.

“Head back. I’m exhausted, I just want to sleep.” Than strides into the dressing room, throwing his stuff into a leather messenger bag. “Can we go?”

“Yeah, the crew can handle the rest. But it’s the last night of the tour. Don’t you want to head out and celebrate?”

“No. I want to head back to the hotel, take a long shower, eat something and go to bed.” He knows the public expects him to go out partying, and usually he’d force himself to do it, but tonight he just can’t. Fatigue settles over him, too many nights of playing to packed stadiums and then being seen in all the right clubs until the early hours of the morning, usually in the company of a supermodel or two. 

“But…” Hypnos frowns. He knows his brother well enough to recognise the stubborn set of his brow. “Okay. We need to do something , Than, end the tour with a good bit of publicity. How about… how about you take a couple photos with some fans on the way out? I’ll find a few attractive women, you can put your arms around them and smoulder, we’ll leak the photo and imply they were spotted heading into your suite for a private celebration?”

“Sure, whatever.” Than rolls his shoulders, looking forward to the moment he can change into some sweats. Black leather makes for great photos of his legs and ass, but it’s sweaty as fuck, and all he wants is to be clean and comfortable. And alone . Definitely alone.

Hypnos whispers instructions to one of their many runners before double checking the dressing room for any personal property. The media would have a field day if they got hold of Than’s phone or iPad, filled with celebrity contact details and glimpses into Than’s real life. Not to mention the gay porn, a part of Than which even Hypnos knows nothing about. The media would definitely be interested in that.  Being outed would destroy his career, outdated stereotypes damaging his bad boy persona and putting off his predominantly straight female fanbase. Than feels guilty for hiding who he really is in the pursuit of fame and fortune. He has a platform, and he could use it to provoke a conversation. The label wouldn’t like it, though, and Than is nothing if not indebted to the label.

Hypnos ushers him through the labyrinthine corridors towards the cars. A small group of fans are waiting behind a barrier, vibrating with excitement at the chance to meet their idol.

“Ladies, great to meet you.” Than winks, snapping a charmingly flirtatious veneer over his exhaustion. “Enjoy the show, I hope?”

They giggle and simper, tripping over each other to share their thoughts on the show. He chats with them easily, keeping the conversation light, flirty enough to give them a thrill without creating any expectations. Hypnos clears his throat and nods towards the idling SUV, playing the part of schedule-obsessed manager perfectly.

“A photo, before my brother whisks me away?” Than suggests, opening his arms to invite the women to crowd around him.

The runner snaps photo after photo, subtly rotating through the fans’ phones and his publicist’s phone. Than laughs and smiles and smoulders, subtly arranging his posture within the group to make it look like they’re almost draped over him while maintaining a respectful distance.

Before long, he’s settled in the backseat of the SUV, being driven back to the hotel. Hypnos is in the other car, chatting with Megaera, his publicist, no doubt planning a strategic photo drop to a few choice journalists. Than gazes out of the window, watching the city lights flash by on the short drive. They drive past the sweeping entrance to the hotel, avoiding the gathered paparazzi, and pull around the back to the service entrance, waiting for the security door to raise before driving through. A few photographers dash around from the front of the building, clearly having recognised the cars, flashguns popping as they try to take photos through the darkened glass. A few minutes later, they’re riding the service elevator upwards, closer to sanctuary with every floor that passes.

Hypnos ushers Than into his suite, footsteps echoing over the polished marble floor of the hallway before they soften, muffled by the plush cream carpet. 

“Go shower, I’ll get you some food. You want carbs?” Hypnos asks, correctly predicting what Than will be craving after an energetic live show.

“Please. Pasta would be amazing. Don’t care what kind,” Than asks, already unbuckling the leather harness cinched over his mesh tank.

“You got it. I’ll order to my room and bring it in for you. Go shower.”

“Thanks, bro. What time are we out tomorrow morning?”

“No rush, you can sleep in. We’re gonna get breakfast together, and then we’ll talk about the next few weeks.”

“The next few weeks? I thought I was getting some downtime?” Than frowns.

“You are. I have a proposal for you. Don’t sweat it, we’ll talk in the morning.”

Than is too tired to press his brother further. “Alright. Night, Hyp.”

“Night, Than.”

Hypnos slips through the door, leaving Than alone in the clinical silence of his suite. He wishes he was alone already, in the mountains, enjoying the clean air and the lack of people wanting something from him. He sighs, unbuttoning his shirt as he walks towards the marble bathroom. The leather pants come off next, falling to the floor just inside the door. He’ll tidy everything later. Or tomorrow. Definitely tomorrow.

The warm water feels sublime as it beats down on Than’s head, quickly saturating his hair. He stands, breathing deeply, consciously relaxing his body as the room fills with steam. He washes the sweat from his hair, forcing himself to focus on the feeling of his fingertips against his scalp, the soapy water running down his back. Bit by bit, he relaxes, letting go of the pressures of his public persona and settling back into himself.

He shuts the water off, drying himself with an oversized towel, his movements unhurried. The hotel robe is pleasantly scratchy on his skin, the waffle weave fabric absorbing any stray moisture. He walks through the bedroom to the generous living area, where a cloche covered plate sits on the dining table, strangely lonely at one end of the shining glass tabletop. He slides into the stylishly modern dining chair and lifts the cloche.

Fragrant steam rises slowly from a shallow bowl of linguine, curling in the air beneath Than’s nose, rich and tangy with the scent of garlic and shrimp. An elegant slice of ciabatta balances on the edge of the bowl, toasted golden brown and glistening with butter. His mouth waters, the exhaustion of the performance catching up with him as his stomach growls. He picks up a polished silver fork and digs in, barely tasting the first couple of mouthfuls in his efforts to satiate his stomach. Once his taste buds catch up, he groans softly. The pasta is excellent, cooked al dente and coated with a deliciously light and fresh sauce, the shrimp plump and juicy. 

He lets the fork clatter into the empty bowl, dragging the cloche back into place and pushing back from the table, suddenly exhausted. He drags himself towards the bedroom, grabbing a bottle of water and chugging it down as he walks. He can barely bring himself to brush his teeth before he falls into bed, the deferred exhaustion of the tour settling bone deep, enveloping his consciousness in a hazy blanket. Within minutes, he falls into a deep sleep, cuddled under the crisp sheets.

Some number of hours later, Than awakens bathed in watery morning light. He blinks sleepily, half chiding himself for falling asleep with the drapes open, half grateful for the gentle wakeup call. He stretches luxuriously before kicking the sheets away and struggling upright. 

By the time a sharp knock rings through the suite, he’s dressed in comfy sweats and an oversized t-shirt, a fresh cup of coffee cradled in his hands. He pads over to the door, checking the peep hole before letting Hypnos and Megaera through, standing aside for Charon, who pushes a breakfast laden trolley.

They crowd into the dining area, transferring plates from the trolley onto the table. Hypnos has over-ordered again: fruit salad, bacon and eggs, pancakes, pastries, yoghurt, granola and toast. 

“Hungry, Hyp?” Than asks, raising an eyebrow as he pops open a miniature jar of marmalade.

“We made it to the end of the tour, a decadent breakfast seems like a pretty modest celebration to me.” Hypnos smiles wryly.

“Fair point.” Than slathers a slice of toast with a thick layer of marmalade. He takes a bite, closing his eyes briefly as the citrus bright flavour floods his mouth.

“Good coverage this morning.” Megaera holds up her iPad, proudly displaying one of the photos they took with the fans beside a headline speculating about which of the women had accompanied Than back to his hotel last night. “They bought the private end of tour celebration story. And the article specifically mentions that the tour was a sell out across all fifty cities.”

“Nice work, Meg.” Hypnos nods. 

“Yeah, great work. Thanks. Glad we got the coverage and I got an early night.” Than smiles appreciatively.

“Thanks, guys.” Meg slides a few more slices of bacon onto her plate, glancing disapprovingly at Charon’s bowl of yoghurt and berries. “So, Than.”

“So, Than, what?” Than asks, suddenly remembering the mysterious comments Hypnos made about a proposal for his downtime last night.

“We were thinking,” Hypnos takes over, cocking his head to one side as he does just before any challenging conversation. “You’ve worked incredibly hard on this tour. Every night performing at your best. You’ve been on top of your game for months. Fifty cities is a big deal.”

“You’re clearly exhausted,” Meg interjects. “You’ve been grumpy with us the past few weeks. We know it’s because you’re working yourself into the ground, with all the interviews on top of the tour itself, but we’re worried. I don’t think I’ve ever seen you this low, Thanatos.”

Than winces at the use of his full name, guilt creeping over his skin. His patience has worn thin recently, the prospect of some time off the only thing keeping him going between performances. He hadn’t realised that he had been taking it out on those closest to him. “Sorry,” he mumbles, shame raising a slight flush onto his cheeks.

“It’s okay,” Hypnos says, holding his hands out placatingly. “We get it. We think you need a proper break.”

“Yeah, and I’ll get one. I’ll head back to my place in the mountains, recharge my batteries for a week or two, and then we’ll discuss what’s next.” Than frowns, wondering where this discussion is headed.

“So here’s the thing. We were talking, and we think you need a change of scenery. If you go to your place in the mountains, you’ll brood all alone in the silence until you’re inspired to start writing new songs, and then you’ll be working again. You need more than that, Than.” Megaera purses her lips, as if anticipating a fight.

“Look, Than. I booked a yacht in the Mediterranean. Private charter, big luxurious boat, comes with an experienced crew who’ll take care of everything, even down to escorting us on private tours of ancient Greek monuments if that’s what you want to do,” Hypnos says.

“Did you think about consulting with me before you booked the boat, Hyp?” Than asks mildly.

“I knew you’d say no. You need a break. A bit of sunlight on your skin. The opportunity to relax.” 

“How am I meant to relax when I’m on a boat full of strangers?” Than glances between Hypnos and Megaera. Charon’s looking down into his empty bowl, stoic in the face of conflict as always.

“The company is very discreet. I checked up on them.” Megaera’s fingers jab at the screen of her iPad before she turns it to face him. “This is the boat. It’s an exclusive rental, only really accessible to the very rich and famous, they vet their staff well and they guarantee discretion.”

The tension hanging over the table thickens with every passing moment. Hypnos and Megaera wisely fall silent, giving Than time to consider their proposal. Or rather, their plan - the yacht is booked already, and Than can only imagine the financial implications of cancelling at this stage. His family have expertly manipulated him into an extended, sunlit break. He can hardly say no, even if he’ll miss the opportunity to spend a few weeks brooding at his place in the mountains.

“Okay. Thanks for planning this, guys, I appreciate it. When do we leave?”

The tension lifts, leaving sunny, relieved smiles on both Hypnos’ and Megaera’s faces. Even Charon cracks a tiny smile.

“We fly out to Greece in two days. As soon as the equipment is on its way back to storage, the label’s happy with the paperwork.” Hypnos grins. “And then, nothing but sun, sea, sand and sailing around the Med.”

“Sounds good,” Than murmurs, hoping the boat is large enough that he’ll still have plenty of time to himself.

Chapter Text

After a few days of pottering around at home, Zagreus feels happy and refreshed, out of work mode and fully relaxed. He’s partway through transferring an oregano seedling into a bare patch of the herb garden when his phone starts ringing. He starts, the loud ringtone disturbing his reverie, glancing down at his dirt streaked hands. “Fuck.”

“Zagreus, language,” Persephone mutters beside him, gently pressing the rich brown earth around the roots of a seedling of her own. 

“Sorry, Mama.” Zag brushes the worst of the dirt from his hands on the grass, tugging his phone out of his pocket. “Hello?”

“Zagreus, it’s Captain Poseidon.” 

When he hears his boss’ voice, he straightens, walking slowly across the springy emerald grass towards the shade. “Hey Cap. Everything alright?”

“Yes, nothing to worry about. The powers that be have shuffled the charters around to fill that cancellation. They’ve moved our next booking over to the Ionian Princess and given us a new one. Some musician and their entourage. Anyway, I’ll need you back early - they’re boarding at Rethymno, so we’ll need to sail over. Okay to come back first thing the day after tomorrow?”

“Are you asking, or are you telling?” Zagreus says playfully. “Sure, no problem. How long do you anticipate waiting at Rethymno? Probably better to load provisions there if we have time.”

“We’ll have six or seven hours, plenty of time. Thanks, Zagreus. I know you don’t have much choice, but I appreciate it anyway. I’ll forward the preference sheets from the client later, give you a head start. See you aboard.”

“See you, Cap.” Zag ends the call and tucks his phone back into his pocket, striding back over to his mother, still planting seedlings. “Gonna have to leave a bit early. They’ve changed our next charter, it’s leaving from Rethymno now, so we’ll have to sail back. I’ll need to go the day after tomorrow. I’m sorry.”

“I understand. We’ve had a lovely couple days together as it is. And we have tomorrow, unless you want to make plans with your friends?”

Zag shakes his head. “Between all the drinks and lunches I’m good. What do you want to do tomorrow?”

“I’ll make spanakopita for lunch, and then perhaps we can make a box of pasteli together for you to take on the yacht?” 

“Sounds great.” Zag smiles, knowing better than to tell his mother he doesn’t need a batch of his favourite sweets every time he comes home. He drops to his knees beside her, digging a small hole in the ground with the earth-crusted trowel and gesturing for her to pass him a seedling.

They pass the rest of the afternoon in the garden, working their way through the endless list of jobs required to keep the plants thriving and the flowers blooming. Zag convinces his mother to indulge in a bath while he cooks dinner, making the most of the last few hours of light. He decides to make domates yemistes, eager to use some of the ripe tomatoes he harvested this morning. He’s just sliding the dish from the oven to check its progress when his mother drifts slowly down the stairs, a beatific smile soft on her lips.

“Good bath?” he asks, closing the oven door with a soft thud. “Five minutes, I think.”

“Lovely bath, Zagreus. Thanks for the fancy bath oil. I love the sage notes in it.” Persephone smiles, opening the fridge and removing a bottle of white wine. “Want some?”

“Yes please,” Zag replies, setting the plates on the counter. He grabs the bowl of mixed salad and the silverware, taking them over to the table. 

Persephone pours them a generous glass each, settling at the table to watch as he plates their meal. The tomatoes are ruby red and crinkly, shining with olive oil and stuffed full of meat simmered with garlic, onion, and spices. Zag divides the tomatoes between their plates, taking care not to jostle the overstuffed globes, carrying them over to the table.

“Hope you enjoy. Yamas.” He lifts his glass, tapping it gently against his mother’s. 

“Yamas.” She sips, putting the glass down to snatch up her knife and fork, evidently eager to taste her son’s cooking. She slices smoothly through a tomato, the rich meat filling tumbling down to the plate, bathed in juices. Persephone nods, lifting a forkful to her mouth, chewing thoughtfully. “It’s very good, Zagreus. Thank you.”

He flushes at the praise. “You’re welcome, Mama.”

They eat quietly, alternating bites of food with sips of cool wine. Zag admires his mother’s poise, her easy going nature, the way that her presence makes him feel comforted and serene. 

“Does it happen often, the changes of plan with the charter?” she asks, heaping more salad leaves onto her plate and drizzling them with golden olive oil.

“No, very rarely. The cancellation for this week was strange enough, shifting the next charter is even stranger,” Zag replies, spearing crisp green leaves on his fork. “I got the preference sheets from Captain Poseidon while you were in the bath. The new client is very famous. Explains why the company would make changes in their favour.”

“Oh, would I know them?” 

“You’d definitely know the name, even if you didn’t listen to the music,” Zag replies. He takes the discretion element of the job very seriously, actively avoiding discussions that would lead to requests for details or gossip from his family and friends. “The preference sheets are interesting. Apparently the purpose of the trip is to give the primary charter guest some down time after his last tour. He’s exhausted, apparently. The preference sheet mentions that he’s quite solitary anyway, and with the exhaustion might want to be left alone for a while.”

“And how will you take care of a guest if the guest doesn’t wish to be taken care of?”

“Same as with any guest. Find out what he likes, what he wants, and give it to him. If this guy wants peace and quiet, I can make sure he gets whatever else he wants with minimal interaction, no problem.” 

“Sounds like it could be a quieter trip than you’re used to.”

“Unlikely. The other guests will want things, and I’m sure the primary will be more than enough work. There’s no list of excursions or activities that the guests are interested in, which makes me think they’re going to ask for things at the last minute. Means I’ll be dashing around trying to fulfil their wishes at short notice. It’ll be a busy trip.” Zag grimaces, remembering some of the other musicians he’s helped host on the yacht. He just hopes this one is kind, he can take any amount of running around if the client is kind to the staff. 

“Even more reason to make a box of pasteli tomorrow. You’ll need the energy.” Persephone smiles, pushing the last bite of her meal onto her fork.

When the plates have been wiped clean with chunks of warm pitta bread, Zagreus and Persephone wash the dishes together. Zag scrubs each piece clean and his mother dries, the dishes clean and tucked neatly away in the cupboards in record time. They carry the bottle of wine outside, sitting on the cool grass to gaze up at the stars, twinkling brightly in the inky night sky like diamonds thrown across a length of blue black velvet. 

“So, Zagreus, anyone special in your life?” his mother asks innocently.

“Oh Mama, not you too,” Zag groans. “Can’t you just point out the constellations like we usually do?”

“You know them all,” Persephone says dismissively. “If there were to be someone special, you know you could bring them home, yes? I wouldn’t judge. I just want you to be happy.”

“I know.” Zag takes a slow sip of wine. “If I had someone, I would bring them home. I’m just busy with work.”

“Fine, fine.” Persephone sighs. “I just… I worry, sometimes, that raising you alone means you’ve never seen what a good relationship looks like. I don’t regret separating from your father at all, he chose to care more about his work than his family, but… I hope you still believe in love, even after everything.”

“I do, I do. Just haven’t met the right person yet, promise.”

“They’re not like they are on TV or in books, you know,” Persephone murmurs, her eyes distant. “Relationships. The best ones involve sacrifice. For both people. To choose to be together over all else.”

Zag purses his lips. For all her practicality, all her pragmatism, Persephone still sometimes wanders into a daze, thinking about what their lives might have been like, had his father chosen them over his work. He himself let go of the romantic notion that his father might come back a long time ago, leaving nothing but a heartful of gratitude for his mother, raising a mischievous child alone. 

“Mama.” She looks over, her eyes snapping back to the present. “Don’t get all sad on me, alright? Let’s enjoy the wine and the stars.”

They sit on the grass in the dark, the floral evening breeze caressing their faces, gazing at the stars and tracing the constellations with their fingertips. Persephone falls asleep, moonlight kissing her cheekbones and shining in her messily braided hair, wine glass dangling from her fingers. Zag places her glass carefully beside his and scoops her up into his arms, carrying her upstairs to her bed. He draws the curtains, bending to brush a kiss over her forehead as he tucks the blankets up over her shoulders.

Downstairs, Zag pours the last of the wine into his glass, returning outside to stare into the depths of the cosmos. He sips slowly, letting the tart, juicy wine wash over his tongue, analysing the flavours. It’s not the most expensive or refined of wines, but it’s delicious anyway, bursting with citrus notes with a slightly floral edge. He smiles, imagining presenting the primary with a bottle of wine chosen to complement the flavours of their dinner. A thought crosses his mind, his eyebrows pressing together with concern; will the musician even want wine? Or would he prefer beer, or spirits? It’s unusual to not know these things in advance. Zagreus suspects he has his work cut out for him.

The next morning, Zag sleeps in, relishing one last chance to stay cuddled in the sheets, waking when he wants to without the aid of a blaring alarm. He emerges to the scent of the spanakopita, filling the house with the aroma of baking pastry, spinach and cheese. Time speeds up, and before he knows it, they’ve eaten lunch in the garden, burning their tongues on the hot pastry. They move on to warming the honey for the pasteli. A few hours later, the sweets are packed carefully into a small box, wrapped in waxed paper to keep them fresh at sea. A simple dinner, another glass of wine, and then Zagreus is in bed again, suitcase packed and ready by the front door.

The next morning arrives far too quickly, his favourite breakfast of poached eggs and toast eaten hastily before the taxi arrives to take him back to work.

“It was so good to see you, Mama.” Zag hugs her close, inhaling the powdery scent of her floral soap. “Thanks for taking care of me.”

“Thanks for digging all the beds, agori mou. Good luck with the charter! I’m looking forward to hearing all about it when you’re next on dry land.” Persephone reaches up to cup his cheek, her eyes soft and warm.

Zag bends to kiss her, squeezing in one last hug before he steps outside, dragging his case behind him. A taxi waits outside, engine idling as he says his goodbyes, ready to whisk him down to the marina. He loads his case into the car, sliding into the backseat and winding down the window as the driver shifts the taxi into gear.

“Bye, Mama! I love you!” he calls out as the taxi pulls away.

“I love you too, Zagreus, be safe!” she calls back, leaning against the doorjamb in the shade.

It’s a relatively short drive, only forty minutes to navigate the winding roads that lead down to the town, the sprawling marina, and the open sea beyond. Zag stares out of the open window, soaking up the sights and scents of his island home, packing them into his memory to keep him going over the next few weeks at sea. He savours the carefree relaxation he’s settled into since he returned, aware that as soon as he steps onboard, the combined stresses of the job will start to build up.

He pays the taxi driver and drags his case over to the yacht, grinning happily as he observes the light glinting off the shiny white hull. The Agape Mou is a beautiful vessel, forty five metres long and boasting three decks, each one furnished beautifully with sleek yet comfy modern furniture. Zag is proud to serve as part of her crew, proud of the service his team provides and the Mediterranean experience they offer to their guests.

He takes his case directly to his bunk, unpacking his things quickly and shoving his case into a storage area. He changes into his daytime uniform, a burgundy polo shirt and a pair of tan shorts, before rushing to the crew mess to meet with Captain Poseidon, the bosun and Chef to go through the preference sheets. After that, he runs upstairs to the sun deck to start the inspection, working his way down, deck by deck, writing lists of tiny issues to resolve as they sail over to Rethymno. Continued changes in their clients’ plans means there’s now only three hours between the time that the Agape Mou docks at the marina and the time that their clients arrive. Everything will need to be perfect by the time they dock so they can focus on provisioning and dressing the space with floral arrangements.

He barely notices as the yacht casts off and leaves the marina, cutting smoothly through the water, tumbling sapphire wavelets cresting either side of the bow. The interior team rallies around, working through their lists as Zag moves swiftly through the rooms, helping where necessary to speed things along. Satisfied that the team is on track, he half runs to the kitchen, where Chef is drafting the menus for the next few days.

“Preference sheets are so vague, right?” Zag says, leaning on the scrupulously clean stainless steel surface. “Primary likes seafood, doesn’t have much of a sweet tooth but does enjoy fresh fruit. Other guests have no real preferences at all. I’m suspicious, I don’t think we’ve ever had group this easy going when it comes to their meals.”

Chef looks down, head moving slowly from side to side in disbelief, double checking the scribbled list of ingredients on the counter.

“Almost done?” Zag asks. “I’ll need to send the list over to the supplier very soon, if we’re going to provision before the clients arrive.”

Chef snaps the cap back onto the pen with a firm click, pushing the completed list over to Zag. He reads it quickly, nodding as he considers the likely availability of each of the ingredients listed. “Great, thanks. Shouldn’t be a problem sourcing these items. I’ll let you know if anything’s out of stock shortly?”

Chef nods and ushers Zag out of the kitchen, gesturing impatiently at the small pile of ingredients on the bench. 

“Fine, fine, I’ll leave you to your canapes. Give me a shout if you need anything.” Zag taps the radio clipped to his belt as he backs out of the kitchen.

By the time they dock in Rethymno, Zag is certain that they'll be ready for their guests, even with the tight timing. Over the past few hours, he’s persuaded their suppliers to dispatch a priority delivery to the marina, signed off the repairs and the cleaning, and led a (curiously short) interior team briefing on the clients and their needs. 

The last few hours pass in a blur of unloading supplies and final finishing touches. 

Zag finishes arranging fresh cut flowers in an elegant basket, handing it over to Daniel, the third steward, to place in the dining area. One arrangement left, for the master bedroom suite. He contemplates which flowers would be appropriate for a musician who seemingly has few preferences. He could play it safe, go with something classic. Or he could take a gamble on something a little different. 

He decides to go with something a little different, gathering rich blue purple iris and creamy freesia. He chooses not to trim the long stems, arranging them in a tall vase with a curving wide neck. The finished arrangement looks vibrant and unusual. He lifts the heavy vase, nestling it carefully against his chest and carrying it through the hallways towards the salon area and the master bedroom suite. 

He walks straight into Daniel, carrying a heavy basket of fresh fruit out of the master suite. He manages to hold on to the vase, but the water inside sloshes over the wide neck, splashing his chest. Daniel stoops to retrieve a fallen apple and scurries off, throwing Zag a quick apology as he dashes to the next bedroom to stock the remaining fruit bowls.

Zag curses, pulling a soft cloth from his pocket and wiping the vase dry. He walks into the master bedroom suite, crossing the thick silvery carpet to place the vase on a strategically placed side table. Adjusting it minutely towards the centre of the table, he double checks that the vase is clean of beads of water and stray fingerprints. Satisfied, he leaves the room, jogging back towards the crew area to change his shirt. His phone beeps with a message from Poseidon: their clients are five minutes away, time to line up.

Zag swears again, tugging his shirt off as he jogs and throwing it haphazardly into the washing bin. He grabs a spare shirt from his bunk, pulling it over his head as he turns around and starts jogging back through the yacht. The entire crew needs to be lined up when the clients step out of their vehicles, ready to welcome them aboard, and as chief steward Zag needs to be at the head of that line, next to Captain Poseidon. No time to waste.

He’s halfway up the stairs to the main deck when he notices that the shirt is bunching uncomfortably around his pectoral muscles. He yanks it down his body, suddenly realising two things: that he’s wearing a shirt at least one size too small, and that there’s no time to replace it before the clients arrive. He resigns himself to welcoming their guests in inappropriately tight clothing: better to be slightly unprofessionally dressed than not present at all.

He bolts across the main deck, taking his place beside the Captain just as a pair of black SUVs pull up on the road running along the marina.

Chapter Text

Than climbs into the SUV, settling into the back seat and clicking his seatbelt into place. 

Hypnos slides in beside him, putting his backpack carefully on the floor between them, glancing over apologetically. “I promise, Than, that was the absolute last interview. You’ve earned your freedom.”

“You said that last time, Hypnos,” Than sighs, sinking back into the soft black leather seat.

“Yeah, but this time we’re on our way to the airport, and once we’re in Greece the time difference will protect us from the label for a while,” Hypnos says optimistically.

“There better be no last minute phone interviews on the plane,” Than replies, closing his eyes and letting his shoulders soften and relax.

“Nope, definitely not. You don’t have to do anything but relax.” 

“Thanks, bro. You’ll be relaxing on this vacation too, right? I don’t need managing or looking after for twelve nights on a boat. And you could do with some time off too.” 

“Yeah, don’t worry. The yacht has a full staff, they’ll look after us. All I gotta do is keep the label at arm’s length.”

“A full staff? Like a chef and stuff?” Than asks, turning slightly in his seat to face his brother.

Hypnos mirrors Than’s posture. “Oh, way more. A chef, a small team of stewards, deckhands, some engineering types... I doubt we’ll see most of them, but I guess the stewards are gonna be around all the time.”  

“Huh. You sure they’re discreet?” Than asks, unsure how to feel about spending his vacation surrounded by people he doesn’t know. “What do they actually do?”

“Yeah, I told you, this company works with celebrities all the time, they’re very discreet. As for what they do… basically, whatever you want. The chief steward will be looking after you personally, since you’re the VIP megastar. The stewards do things like serving meals, bartending, setting up the yacht for meals or parties or whatever –”

“No parties.” Than’s voice is flat and decisive. “Please, Hyp, no parties.”

“Relax, it was just an example. They can also arrange excursions, plan out any activities on board, suggest places to go and things to see. As much or as little as you want.” Hypnos sounds excited, like he’s reading straight from the yacht charter company brochure. 

“Sounds great. As little as I want,” Than murmurs, turning back to watch the city fly by as they drive to the airport.

They arrive at the private terminal, the door to the hangar held open by an attractive man in a well cut suit. Than hauls himself out of the SUV, dragging his messenger bag along with him. The second SUV pulls up behind him, Charon and Meg jumping out and hurrying to join them.

“Welcome, sir, right this way.” The doorman gestures through the nondescript door.

Another sharply dressed employee intercepts them, guiding them through into a private room to complete their check in. Their documentation receives only a cursory glance before the attendant hands them a glass of champagne each and asks that the group wait for the final checks to be completed.

“Do we have the range to fly straight to Greece, Hyp?” Megaera asks, knocking back half the glass of champagne in one swig. “Can’t wait for our vacation to begin.”

Than raises his glass silently in agreement, catching a wry smile in Charon’s eye as he does the same.

“Yeah, this jet’ll take us straight to Crete. We'll drive from the airfield to the marina, and then we’ll be on a yacht sailing around the Greek islands.” Hypnos yawns. “Long flight, though. We’d better get some sleep if we’re gonna avoid jet lag.” 

“Doesn’t look like that’ll be a problem for you.” Than smiles, watching his brother’s face split wide with a gargantuan yawn.

“It’s never a problem for him,” Megaera snorts, finishing her champagne. “Please, no snoring on the jet, Hyp. Please.”

“Of course not, darling Meg.” Hypnos winks. 

Charon huffs out a laugh, leaning against the wall in the corner.

They board the jet, spreading out around the luxurious interior. Than chooses a wide leather recliner close to the front of the cabin, facing away from the sofa area. He fully intends to curl up and take a nap at some point, since he knows he won’t be able to sleep the whole flight. Hypnos and Meg throw their bags down by the sofas, and Charon slips into a seat just behind Than.

“Charon, you don’t need to watch my back here. Take some time, relax.”

“I’m good,” Charon rumbles, his voice soft and hoarse.

“Alright,” Than replies. He nestles down into the seat, securing the seatbelt across his hips and waiting for the steward to run through the safety procedures.

He falls asleep before takeoff.

When he awakens, the cabin lights have been dimmed, the soft sounds of Hypnos’ snores harmonising prettily with Megaera’s own snuffles. Charon is awake, reading a dog-eared paperback in the gloom with the aid of a clip-on reading light. Than struggles upright, sliding out of the chair and padding quietly over to the bathroom, nodding at Charon as he passes by. 

He fills the sink and bends to splash his face, enjoying the coolness of the water. His reflection looks tired in the mirror, the dark shadows under his eyes more apparent now he's not wearing foundation and concealer every day in case he gets photographed. Maybe some time in the sunshine will help, a bit of a break from his usual post tour routine of shutting himself away from the world in the mountains. 

He closes the door to the bathroom behind him and moves quietly back to his seat. 

The steward materialises beside him, crouching to speak softly lest he awaken the other passengers. “Can I get you a beverage, sir?”

“Some water would be great, thanks,” Than whispers back. “How long till we land?”

“Two hours, sir. Would you like anything to eat?”

“No, I’m fine for now. Thanks.” Than takes his headphones and his phone from his bag. He scrolls through his library, looking for something relaxing. When the steward returns with a glass of water, he’s sinking into the music, humming softly to himself.

An hour later, Hypnos and Meg wake up, beginning their usual spirited discussion about whose snoring was louder. Than smirks, turning the volume up and closing his eyes, drowning out their bickering with the music. He consciously relaxes his jaw, followed by his shoulders, working slowly down his body until he’s lying tranquil in a sea of lilting melody.

Until something bounces off his forehead, coming to rest somewhere in the tangle of platinum blonde hair draped over his shoulder.  

“Hypnos,” Than growls, dragging his eyes open and scrabbling in his hair for the object. He finds a green gummy bear, which he pops into his mouth even as he glares at his brother.

“Nearly there, Than. Don’t go to sleep.” Hypnos grins, throwing a red gummy bear across the cabin. Charon catches it mid air, tossing it into his mouth with a triumphant smile.

Than lurches upright and stalks across the cabin, taking the bag of gummy bears from Hypnos’ hands and returning to his seat. He offers the bag to Charon as he passes, smiling as his brother picks out six red gummy bears before pushing the bag away.

“Do we have an itinerary for the boat, Hypnos?” Than asks, selecting a yellow gummy bear and biting its head off savagely.

“Not really. We’ll stay at the marina for a few hours while we work all that out with the chief steward. I didn’t give them a lot of information ahead of time, so they’ll want to know what our plans are when we board.” Hypnos yawns, rolling up his favourite blanket and stuffing it into his backpack.

“And what if we don’t have any plans?” Megaera drawls, stretching her arms above her head.

“The chief steward will plan something for us. I think they’re used to adapting to all sorts of requests. Than, you okay sitting down with him after we settle in and telling him what you wanna do for the next twelve nights? Doesn’t have to be specific.” 

“Yeah, I guess. I just want to relax, see the islands, swim in the sea, that kind of thing. What about you guys?” Than asks, shifting in his seat. 

“Your plan sounds good to me. Don’t feel you have to spend all your time with us, alright? However you wanna relax, it’s all good.” Hypnos gazes at him, a concerned frown settling on his face. 

Than resists rolling his eyes again, reminding himself that Hypnos' worry is driven only by love and care. “Thanks, bro.” 

The steward walks through the cabin, collecting glasses and plates, letting them know that the jet will be landing in Chania on the island of Crete in twenty minutes. Than turns off his headphones and shoves his stuff back into his bag, nestling it at his feet ready for landing.

Half an hour later, he walks slowly down the jet’s steps, savouring the feeling of the warm, heavy air in his lungs and the prickle of strong sunlight on his skin. He glances around, finding the private airfield much the same as every other private airfield he's flown from or to, except for the gnarled olive trees planted in neat rows on the other side of the high fences.

Two black SUVs are parked a short distance from the plane, uniformed attendants already transferring their collective luggage from the hold into their spacious trunks. Than and Charon slide into the air conditioned coolness of one, Meg and Hypnos taking the other. Minutes later, they’re speeding along the highway towards Rethymno, the sky clear and searingly blue above them. 

Thankfully it’s a short ride. Before long, they turn into the marina, driving through the striping shadows cast by gigantic boats, parked side by side with a staggeringly small amount of distance between them. Than raises an eyebrow, wondering how many millions it would cost to buy a boat of this size, let alone to run it. They’re so tall - two or three decks each rising gracefully from the rippling water, not to mention the incredible length of them. 

The cars stop in front of a sleek, elegant boat, all gleaming white exterior and dark tinted windows. It’s gorgeous, the smooth, sculpted lines of the hull somehow evoking a sense of movement and momentum in an inanimate object. Than hops out of the car, gazing up at the staggered decks towering above them.

“Huge,” Charon murmurs, shading his eyes as he stares at the boat.

“Yeah, it really is,” Than replies as Hypnos and Meg sidle over. “Hyp, did you know it was this big?”

“Yep. It sleeps twelve people, technically, in six cabins. I figured that kind of size would give us enough room that you can still have your alone time, Than.”

Than punches his brother’s shoulder gently. “Thanks, Hyp. It’s extravagant, but I appreciate it.”

“No worries. Let’s board,” Hypnos nudges Than towards the ramp leading onto the boat. “VIPs first, of course.”

Than snorts, shouldering his bag and striding up the ramp. A small row of people wait for them in the sunshine, all of them dressed in immaculate uniforms of dark red polo shirts and tan shorts.

“The crew?” Than whispers to Hypnos, walking just behind him towards the group.

“Yeah. The Captain is the one on the right,” Hypnos mutters.

“Welcome aboard the Agape Mou!” The tall, bearded man on the right steps forward, one broad hand held out. Than shakes it automatically. “I’m Captain Poseidon, great to meet you. This is Zagreus, chief steward, and the team who’ll be looking after you and keeping you safe for the next twelve nights.”

Than turns slightly to his left, suppressing a gasp as he drinks in the sight of the gorgeous man standing in front of him. He feels suddenly grateful for the obscurity provided by his dark sunglasses, eyes automatically roving over the man’s body. His polo shirt is very tight, emphasising his bulky arms and broad shoulders. His thick wavy dark hair is tied back in a small ponytail, his white teeth contrasting with his bronzed skin as he smiles, stepping forward and extending a hand.

“Zagreus, sir,” he says, his hand enveloping Than’s in a firm handshake that nearly sends a shiver down Than’s spine. He realises that Zagreus’ eyes are heterochromatic, the left a rich espresso brown, the right a washed out sea green. 

“Thanatos.” He lets go of Zagreus’ hand abruptly.  

The chief steward’s smile falters for a moment before flickering back into place. “A pleasure to meet you, sir. We’re delighted to welcome you aboard the Agape Mou.”

Hypnos steps up, shouldering Than subtly to the side and shaking Zagreus’ hand. “Nice to meet you, Zagreus. I’m Hypnos, I’m the manager. Megaera, PR, and Charon, security.”

“Great to meet you, sir, madame, sir. If you’ll just follow me to the bar area, I can offer you a welcome drink and give you some important information about onboard safety.” Zagreus waits for Than’s nod before he turns to lead them across the deck.

God, his ass.  It’s firm and curvy, like a fresh, juicy peach. Than swallows, trying not to gawp disrespectfully as Zagreus leads the way. He’d like to squeeze that ass. Bite it. Spread those cheeks open and… 

Than wills the image away, forcing himself to look at the sprawling deck around him. It’s furnished in a cosy, modern style, with honey hued wooden floors and sleek couches arranged for lounging. Zag presses a button, a glass door sliding open silently before him, leading them to a well stocked bar, a modern dining set arranged behind it. Than perches on a bar stool, Hypnos and Meg hefting themselves onto the stools beside him, Charon hanging back just behind them. 

Zagreus steps behind the bar, a professional smile playing on his lips. "We have a fully stocked bar, so if you have a favourite cocktail, I'd be happy to make it for you anytime. I can also recommend wine pairings, and if there's something specific you'd like, I can source it wherever we’re docked. May I offer you a glass of champagne, perhaps? Or something else?" His eyes dart over to Than's face before he glances at the rest of his guests. 

"Champagne's fine," Than murmurs. Is he being too brusque? Probably. Underneath his calm exterior, he's overwhelmed, reeling with the forbidden attraction he feels, the thrilling effervescence of it dampened by the knowledge that he can never, ever act on his feelings.

Zagreus ducks down, returning with a chilled bottle of champagne. Than wonders why his polo shirt is so tight, much more so than the shirts worn by the other members of the crew. It's so tight that Than can see the contours of his pecs beneath it, even the shape of his nipples if he looks closely. Zag opens the champagne with an effortless pop, biceps shifting and bulging under the clinging fabric as he twists the bottle. He pours the pale liquid, filling the tall flutes precisely, bubbles expanding as far as the rim of the glass before settling. He places black ceramic dishes of olives and nuts in front of them, arranging them neatly in a perfect line.

Than is vaguely aware that Zagreus is speaking, but he can't quite bring himself to listen to the words. Hypnos and Megaera have taken their sunglasses off, redundant in the softly lit salon. Than keeps his own shades firmly on, hiding his gaze from the others. He can't stop staring at Zagreus' mouth, his top lip curving into a perfect Cupid's bow. 

Thanatos has been attracted to both men and women for as long as he can remember. Growing up in a small, conservative town, he spent his teenage years ignoring the twinges of desire that plagued him at the sight of the captain of the high school football team. He drowned his feelings in music and girls, losing his virginity to one of the cheerleaders in the backseat of his dad's car after his band played at prom. 

He had thought that leaving home would give him the freedom to explore his sexuality. Then he played at a local wedding, just him and his acoustic guitar, singing softly at the start of the reception. In a story so outlandish it almost sounds made up, one of the guests happened to be in A&R, her job focused on finding new rock acts for a big New York label. His first record deal, barely eighteen, signed so hastily he hadn't realised how much of his life would be under the label's control. 

"Thanatos, any skeletons in the closet?" His handler asked, leaning back in his plush leather chair. "If we're gonna make you a star, I need to know about anything that might fuck me over. Secret babies born to high school girlfriends, drunk prank videos on YouTube, anything like that?"

"No, sir," Than murmured, squirming under his piercing gaze. The desk was so big. How could anyone need a desk so large? Was it chosen to intimidate those who sat in the uncomfortable chairs set before it? If so, it was definitely working. 

"You're not gay, are you? Pretty emo boys like you often get a bit of a gay following, but your target fanbase is girls and women. If you're gay, you better keep it hidden." The handler eyed him warily, taking in his ripped black jeans and the tangle of bracelets wrapped around his wrist.

"I'm not gay, sir." Than glanced down at his heavy leather boots. It was only a small lie. No harm in it. It wasn't like he'd ever acted on his desires, after all.

"Good. Nothing fucks with a music career like getting caught giving head in a public bathroom, remember that, kid. We need women to wanna fuck you, and men to wanna be you. Understood?"

"Understood." He swallowed, vowing to bury the truth so deep that no-one would ever find it. 

Ten successful years later, and he's still in the closet. Sure, he sometimes encounters a man he's attracted to, and he's always been able to ignore the magnetic pull, the flush of heat over his skin. Twelve nights on a boat with Zagreus. No problem. 

"Any questions?" Zagreus says brightly. Than realises that he hasn't heard a single word of the safety talk. He shakes his head, following Megaera's lead. Hopefully nothing will happen. 

Not that being shipwrecked on a deserted island with Zagreus would be a bad thing. He takes a gulp of champagne, pushing the thought automatically out of his mind.

Chapter Text

Zag watches as Anna escorts Hypnos, Megaera and Charon from the bar area, walking towards the staircase to the lower deck. He turns back to Thanatos and smiles, wondering whether he's just naturally grumpy or if Zag has somehow managed to piss him off already. He really hopes it's the former. Aggravating a VIP primary charter guest this early would undoubtedly put his job in jeopardy. 

He slides his notebook from its home beneath the bar, opening it to a fresh page and laying it on the bar in front of him. "Would now be an acceptable time to discuss any ideas you have for the itinerary, sir? Your brother tells me this trip is primarily focused on your needs."

"You can call me Thanatos. I don't really have any ideas." Thanatos' voice is flat, almost expressionless. 

Zag keeps the smile pasted on his lips. "I can make some suggestions, if you're open to that?"

"Sure."

"Twelve nights is a fairly long trip, so I'd suggest visiting three or four islands. If you're interested in exploring, I can arrange private excursions to historical sites, guided tours, or simply recommend things to do if you'd like to be more independent. There will be plenty of time on the water, and if you'd like to use the jet skis or other water toys, I can help you with that."

"You're familiar with the islands, right? Can you put together an itinerary for us? I really don't have any preferences at the moment." Thanatos' voice sounds almost apologetic, an improvement over the neutrality it held a moment ago.

"Of course. I'm here to ensure you have an enjoyable vacation, your wish is my command. I'll put together a flexible itinerary with some options of things to do on each island, and you can choose to do any or none of them as you prefer. I would suggest we set sail for Santorini first, perhaps? It's a beautiful island." 

Thanatos nods curtly. Zag wishes he could see the man's eyes. His expression is so impassive Zag really can't tell whether he's unimpressed or just tired. 

"Any favourite foods, Thanatos? Or foods you avoid? Dinner tonight is currently set to be fillet mignon with a pistachio and olive crust, but if you'd prefer something else I can liaise with the chef." 

A tiny smile blooms on Thanatos' face. Zag's shoulders loosen a little as relief floods his body. "I love steak, so that sounds great. I'm not a fussy eater, really. My nutritionist prefers me to stick to lean protein and vegetables when I’m not on tour."

Zag scribbles the scant information into his notebook. "The brief mentioned you enjoy seafood. The islands are known for it, hopefully we'll be able to impress you." Another tiny smile. "Would you like me to show you to the master suite?"

"Please." Thanatos drains the last of his champagne and slips off the bar stool.

Zag finds himself again admiring Thanatos' body. He was expecting him to be shorter in real life, based on previous experience with a procession of Hollywood actors, but he's just as tall as he looks on screen. His upper body is bulky with muscle, tapering to a narrow waist and hips. His tight jeans emphasise his thick thighs and shapely calves. 

Zag clears his throat, chiding himself for eyefucking his VIP guest. "This way, sir."

"Thanatos," he says, the slightest tinge of amusement in his voice. 

"Of course. Thanatos," Zag replies. He leads the way down the stairs and through the elegant salon. "All the guest cabins are accessible through this living area. The master suite is set back from the other rooms to ensure maximum privacy." 

Zag opens a door, ushering Thanatos through and down a moodily lit hallway. "The door at the end leads to the bedroom and living area. The door on the left leads to the bathroom."

Thanatos opens the door in front of him, stepping across the threshold into the cabin. He stops in the middle of the room, slowly turning to survey the space. Zag notes that the back view of Thanatos' body is just as attractive as the front.

"It's beautiful," Thanatos says, so softly Zag wonders if he's talking to himself. 

"I'm glad you approve, si- Thanatos,"  Zag murmurs. "The wood is reclaimed Scandinavian pine. All the surfaces here and in the bathroom are Italian marble. The sheets are the finest Egyptian cotton." He wonders why he's telling Thanatos all this. Such things must be commonplace to him. 

Thanatos turns back to face him, sunglasses dangling from his fingers. Zag draws a sharp breath. His face is ruggedly handsome, as Zag expected, but his eyes… they’re a striking, luminous amber. Piercing and calm at the same time, like a big cat sprawled beneath a tree, at rest and yet also fully alert.

"Did you think they were coloured contacts?" Thanatos smirks. "People usually do. Amber irises are rare."

"I do apologise, that was unprofessional of me." Zag winces. 

"It's okay," Thanatos replies mildly. "I'm used to it."

"Well, I'll leave you to settle in and explore. If you need anything at all, you can use this phone to reach me, day or night. I'm here to help you enjoy your vacation, so don't hesitate to use it." Zag slides a slim device from his pocket and places it neatly on a marble coffee table. 

"Will it work out at sea?" Thanatos asks. 

"Yes. The yacht has communications equipment, local and satellite networks available. The phone should work anywhere. You'll find my number is the only one stored." Zag taps the phone attached to his hip. "What kind of time do you prefer to eat dinner?"

"Around eight?" Thanatos says, raising a perfectly groomed eyebrow. 

"I'll let Chef know. If you'd like, I can serve pre-dinner drinks on the sun deck."

"Please. At seven thirty?"

Zag wonders why Thanatos is asking when he could just issue orders. Perhaps the bad boy, don’t give a fuck attitude is just for show? "Perfect. If you need anything at all, just call or text me." 

"Thank you." Thanatos gives him a small smile as he turns towards the hallway.

"You're very welcome," Zag says automatically, tugging the door closed behind him and walking briskly towards the bridge to brief Captain Poseidon on their first destination.

Thanatos is not what he expected. The initial aloofness was in keeping with what Zag has come to expect from the rich and famous, but the soft, almost tentative tone? Very unusual. The sort of people who can afford to charter a yacht of this size are usually accustomed to issuing orders and instructions. Zag finds himself curious about the personality beyond the handsome face and gorgeous body.

He meets with the Captain just long enough to explain the flexibility required in the itinerary, updates Chef on Thanatos’ still vague food preferences and confirms dinner for eight. Checking his watch as the yacht’s powerful engines start up, he realises that he has barely two hours before pre-dinner drinks. He heads into the crew lounge to make a quick sandwich, finding Anna, his second steward, doing the same thing.

“Hey, Anna. Leave the bread out, I’m gonna eat too. Drinks at seven thirty, and then dinner at eight.” 

She nods, cutting her sandwich into precise halves and sliding it neatly onto a simple white plate. “Good timing, then, looks like we’ll be busy until late. I’ll do the turn down service with Daniel while you do drinks?”

“Yep, good plan. Come to the kitchen at eight and we’ll handle dinner service together. Strange that there’s only four of them. Hopefully it’ll be an easy charter.”

“Yeah, I guess he’s rich and famous enough that four people in a twelve berth yacht isn’t wasteful, just spacious. Get any idea of what they want yet?” Anna bites into her sandwich, dropping to sit on the utilitarian banquette seating area crammed into the corner.

"Nah. The manager slash brother mostly wants Thanatos to relax, and Thanatos doesn't seem to know what he wants. I'll put together some sample itineraries, but we should expect changes as we learn more about them." Zag spreads peanut butter onto a slice of crusty bread, layering it on thickly before squashing another slice on top. He takes a giant bite, suddenly realising how hungry he is after all the running around preparing the yacht for their guests. 

"Alright, flexible it is. D'you think he's hot?" Anna raises an eyebrow.

"Thanatos? We've met a lot of celebrities who look different in the flesh, I think he's one of the few who looks just as good as he does in the media." 

"Yeah. I definitely would. You?" 

"Inappropriate, Anna," Zag chuckles, only half joking. "We're here to do a job, not admire the guests." 

"Yes, boss." Anna winks at him cheekily. 

They gobble down their sandwiches as they discuss ideas for the next few days’ itinerary. Santorini has a lot to offer, from picturesque towns to beautiful trails to black sand beaches. Some of the most iconic vistas are tourist traps, which Zag suspects won't be a good idea for their famous guest. Before long, they have a notebook full of ideas and only an hour til Zag is due to serve drinks. He changes into his formal evening uniform, black pants with subtle golden piping, a fine white cotton shirt and a fitted gold buttoned waistcoat. He leaves Anna and Daniel to the turndown service and heads upstairs to the bar area. 

They're already a couple of hours away from Rethymno, the air fresh and salty with the scent of the sea. The early evening light plays in the waves, glimmering as it refracts through the clear blue water. Zag smiles, happy to be surrounded by the beauty of nature, the sea breeze ruffling through stray tendrils of his hair. 

When he reaches the bar, Thanatos is already there. He's changed into a tight grey t-shirt and cropped black cargo pants, exposing his lower legs to the air. He's wearing black leather sandals, and even his feet look attractive in the golden light.

"Sir, Thanatos, I'm sorry to have left you unattended." Zag glides into place behind the bar, an apologetic smile on his face. 

"No problem. Happy to just look at the sea," Thanatos mumbles, his face turned to starboard, watching the tumbling waves. His face is beautiful in profile, even more so highlighted by the glints of light bouncing from a nearby chrome rail.

"May I offer you a drink?" Zag asks, hands clasped neatly at the small of his back.

"Sure. Old Fashioned, please." Than turns back, catching Zag's gaze.

"Very good, sir," Zag murmurs, his hands already gathering ingredients for Thanatos' drink. "Would you like to discuss the possible itinerary for tomorrow in Santorini, or would you prefer to wait until breakfast?"

"Breakfast's fine," Thanatos replies, watching Zag work. "I'm a little tired from the journey."

"Of course, si- Thanatos." Zag catches himself, smiling at the frown that briefly appears on Thanatos' face at the unauthorised use of sir. To his surprise, he smiles back, a tiny, bland smile, but a smile nonetheless.

Hypnos appears, taking a seat next to Than and turning to study his brother. Zagreus takes his order and tunes out the conversation, completely accustomed to serving unobtrusively without infringing on the privacy of his guests. Eventually Megaera and Charon join them, choosing to move from the bar to the couches, making themselves comfortable as they sip their drinks. Zag watches from afar, monitoring their glasses and looking for any sign that they might appreciate a refill.

Zag's phone vibrates five minutes before eight, Chef letting him know that dinner is right on time. He walks over to the couches, noticing how Thanatos falls silent, his eyes turning towards him, presumably wanting to keep the conversation private. "Dinner is very nearly ready. If you'd like to take your seats at the table, we'll be serving shortly."

He leads them over to the polished wood dining table, pulling out Megaera's chair for her as she sits. 

"Would you be interested in wine with tonight's meal? I took the liberty of selecting a bottle that will complement the main course, entirely your decision if you'd like to drink it, of course." Zag plucks the bottle from the pine sideboard, holding it out so his guests can inspect the label. "If you'd prefer cocktails or anything else, just let me know."

"I'd like to try the wine," Thanatos says. "Since you went to the trouble of choosing it for us."

"It's no trouble at all," Zag replies demurely, placing the bottle back on the sideboard and withdrawing a corkscrew from his pocket. He opens the wine and pours a little into Thanatos' glass, waiting for him to taste it. 

"It's good, thanks." Thanatos meets his eyes briefly, then looks away.

Zag tops up his glass. The rest of the group opt to drink the wine too, choosing sparkling water over still. Zag makes a mental note to stock up when they reach Santorini as he pours the last of a bottle of San Pellegrino into Charon’s glass. “Dinner will be served shortly.” 

He walks away silently, speeding up as soon as he’s out of sight. Anna and Daniel wait in the kitchen, watching the chef put the finishing touches to an amuse bouche of plump scallops drizzled with a light pesto, served in pristine flat white seashells. Chef arranges the four shells onto a wide, pale wood tray and gestures for Anna to take it, pushing a basket of bread and a dish of olive oil towards Zag. They carry the food carefully towards the table, Zag leading the way to place the bread and oil at the centre of the table, between a pair of flickering candles.

“Freshly baked bread, and olive oil for dipping,” Zag murmurs, turning to lift two shells from Anna’s tray, Daniel doing the same. “And an amuse bouche of seared scallops with fresh pesto.” Daniel glides to the other side of the table, waiting to place the shells in front of Thanatos and Megaera at the same time as Zag serves Hypnos and Charon. “Bon appetit.”

They back away from the table, retreating far away enough that they can’t hear the details of the conversation, but close enough that they’ll notice when the group finishes their food.

“He’s so hot,” Anna sighs dreamily. “I’m weak for long hair and an undercut. You know I used to doodle Mrs Thanatos on my notebook when I was thirteen? He was a little more emo back then, but seriously, he just gets sexier as he ages.” Daniel snickers, nodding in agreement.

“Do I need to supervise you around him, Anna?” Zag grins, watching as Thanatos raises a scallop to his lips. 

“Nah. If he comes on to me, I’m totally up for it, but I’m not going to flirt otherwise. I love this job, wouldn’t want to put it at risk.” 

“Just be careful. Getting involved with the guests is risky,” Daniel murmurs. “I heard that one of the stewards on the Ionian Princess was let go after a client complained that she was bothering him after they spent the night together.”

“Yeah, I heard about that too. Better to keep a respectful distance at all times.” Zag nods.

“Yeah yeah, Mr. Management.” Anna pokes him in the side. “‘I’ve heard plenty of stories about stewards rolling around with the clients and getting away with it, so long as it’s consensual and discreet.”

Zag laughs softly. “I wouldn’t risk my job like that. Can’t imagine doing anything else.”

“I can. Trophy wife sounds great.” Anna dissolves into giggles. 

Zag rolls his eyes. “They’re finished. Let’s go.”

They remove the empty plates, returning with crusted steak served with confit tomatoes and charred asparagus. Zag watches Thanatos, noting the way he lets the others carry the conversation, interjecting occasionally but generally focusing on his meal. His demeanour is slightly different to how he comes across in interviews - not at all playful and flirtatious, but rather solitary and pensive. Zag has met enough famous people to know that their public personas are rarely precisely the same as their private ones, but even so, Thanatos seems almost a different person.

When all the plates have been emptied, Daniel and Anna clear the table while Zag offers dessert, coffee and after dinner drinks. Thanatos declines, opting to retire to his room citing a headache, the rest of the group choosing to linger over brandy and Chef’s signature praline truffles as the sky darkens towards night.

Zag is just settling into his bunk when his phone beeps with a text message from Thanatos.

Received 23:48
Zagreus - do you happen to have any painkillers?

He sighs, crawling out of bed and pulling on a fresh polo shirt and shorts before he texts back.

Sent 23:49
Yes, we do. I’ll be right over with a selection.

One of the store cupboards holds a selection of common medicines and first aid supplies, no fewer than three different types of painkillers for mild to moderate pain. He grabs a few boxes and hurries towards Thanatos’ room, knocking on the outer door and stepping back to wait for a response. Within a minute, the door swings open. Thanatos is wearing one of the luxurious white cotton robes left in all the rooms, tied loosely over a pair of plaid pyjama bottoms. The robe gapes slightly over his chest, offering a glimpse of smooth brown skin and bulging pectoral muscles. Zag forcibly drags his gaze up to Thanatos’ face, hoping he hasn’t been caught checking him out. His amber eyes are narrowed, as if the well lit salon area is too much for him.

“Good evening, Thanatos,” Zag says softly. “I brought you a selection of painkillers.”

Thanatos holds out his hand. Zag hands over three small cardboard boxes, taking care to avoid skin to skin contact. “Thank you. I’ll take these.”

Zag lets Than pass the other two boxes back. “Of course, sir. I hope you feel better soon. Do let me know if there’s anything else I can do for you?”

Thanatos hesitates. “Is it too late to ask for a warm drink?”

“Not at all.” Zag smiles. “What would you like? Coffee, tea, hot chocolate? We also have Greek mountain tea if you’re interested in trying something local - it’s earthy and floral, very soothing.”

“‘I’ll try the mountain tea, thanks.” 

“I’ll be right back, then. Excuse me.” Zag turns to leave.

“Do you have a key to this door?” Thanatos asks abruptly. 

“Yes, I do,” Zag answers cautiously.

“If you don’t mind, let yourself in and knock on the bedroom door. I’d rather stay away from these bright lights.” Thanatos rubs at the bridge of his nose as if he’s in pain.

“Of course. See you shortly.”

It takes less than ten minutes to boil the sideritis flowers and strain the liquid into a small glass teapot. Zag places the teapot, a mug, a tiny jar of Greek honey and a teaspoon onto a tray and sets off for Thanatos’ room. He unlocks the outer door, walking quietly down the hallway towards the bedroom door and knocking gently.

Thanatos opens the door and glances down at the laden tray in Zag’s hands. “Thank you. Do you mind putting it by the bed?” He steps back from the door, holding it open with a broad hand.

“My pleasure, Thanatos,” Zag murmurs, heart quickening as he passes close enough to catch the faint scent of Thanatos’ cologne on his skin. The room is very dimly lit, and the bed is rumpled, as if Thanatos had tried to sleep off the headache and failed. Two phones and an iPad are on charge next to the bed, taking the majority of the space on the modern nightstand. 

“Over there’s fine,” Thanatos says, gesturing to the side table bearing the flowers Zag left there earlier.

Zag slides the tray carefully onto the table, nudging the vase to the side as he does. Thanatos watches, his face unreadable, amber eyes hooded and wary. Zag smiles, wishes him a good night, and makes a hasty exit.

He makes his way back to the crew living area, stripping off his uniform and pulling his pyjama bottoms and t-shirt back on. He slips between the cool sheets, plugging his phone in to charge and checking that the volume is turned up in case Thanatos needs him. The first day of the charter is over, and it went pretty smoothly, apart from the mix up with the polo shirt. Zag breathes a sigh of relief before he succumbs to sleep.

Chapter Text

Than's head is heavy and fuzzy when he eventually wakes, tendrils of last night's headache still tugging at his temples. He searches for his phone on the nightstand, eyes barely open, grabbing at the first object he finds. When he drags his eyelids open, he finds the yacht phone in this hand, a text message notification unread just below the time. He groans, realising he's slept through breakfast and beyond, so late it's very nearly time for lunch. 

He unlocks the phone with a flick of his index finger, automatically tapping the notification. The message from Zagreus was sent over an hour ago.

Received 11:04
Hope you're feeling better, Thanatos.
I'm accompanying Hypnos, Charon and Megaera to the lower deck to check out the water toys.
If you'd like something to eat when you wake up, Daniel will be waiting in the bar area on the main deck.
If you'd prefer I bring you something to your room, just let me know.

Than hesitates, phone held loosely in his hand. The thought of drinking a cup of coffee in bed is incredibly alluring, an unusually slow and relaxed start to the day compared to his usual schedule. But should he really ask Zagreus to bring it? It would be an innocuous request, even if he did lapse into fantasy for just a moment when Zagreus brought him the mountain tea. If word got out, though…

He shakes his head, long hair swaying back and forth. The chief steward bringing a VIP guest a cup of coffee. Pretty defensible, in the event of someone seeing and leaking. Even if Hypnos would remind him that there's no such thing as too paranoid when it comes to public image.

He texts Zagreus before he can reconsider. 

Sent 12:14
Morning Zagreus. I'd really like a cup of coffee in my room, please.

He gets up and uses the opulent marble bathroom, noting that his skin looks flat and sallow. Sunshine and fresh air, that's what he needs today. He hopes Zagreus has some suggestions. He grabs a white cotton t-shirt from the wardrobe and pulls it over his head. When he slides back between the decadently smooth sheets, there's another notification waiting.

Received 12:15
Of course, Thanatos, I'll get right on it.
Would you like something to eat? The others had brunch and aren't planning on eating until dinner.

An image pops into his mind: Zagreus, naked under the sheets of the oversized bed, skin glistening with cooling sweat, feeding him grapes. He banishes the image automatically, tapping out a quick reply. 

Sent 12:15
Fruit would be great, thanks. A pastry if you have one.
Let yourself in, I’m going to stay in bed.

He drops the phone onto the sheets beside him and sits up, propping himself up comfortably on a mound of fluffy pillows. He flicks through the news on his iPad, happy to note that even the most well connected gossip sites haven’t caught wind of his vacation. He taps a headline about one of his acquaintances, a master of self reinvention whose look and persona have evolved several times over the past twenty years of her career. The article centres around an onstage kiss she shared with one of her women dancers, speculating about whether she’s doing it for the publicity or if she’s really queer. 

Despite himself, nausea gathers in the pit of his stomach at the injustice of it all. Women in his industry are so sexualised that any interest in other women is considered sexy and exotic, but if a woman were to come out as a lesbian, it would likely be the beginning of the end of her career. For men, any hint of interest in other men would be a scandal, the kind that could kill a promising career dead unless it was quickly and decisively buried. As much as society has moved on and evolved, achieving global stardom requires a huge public following - and Than has learnt that most of the public aren’t as open minded as he would like.

A soft knock cuts through the silence. Than flips his iPad’s cover shut and places it on the bed next to him and calls for Zagreus to enter. The door swings silently open, and Zagreus shuffles into the room, a tray balanced expertly on one hand.

“ Kalimera , Thanatos, I do hope you slept well,” Zagreus says, letting the door shut softly behind him. “Coffee, fruit, a pastry or two, and I took the liberty of bringing you some freshly squeezed orange juice too.”

“Thanks,” Than murmurs, noting the pink flush over Zagreus’ cheeks and nose. He must have been out in the sun with Hypnos, Meg and Charon. “How’s the weather out there?”

“Gorgeous as always.” Zagreus smiles. “Where would you like the tray?”

“Oh, um… just pass it over, I’ll eat here.” Than holds out his hands.

Zagreus steps closer, holding the tray out and making sure Than has a firm grip on it before withdrawing. “I have some suggestions for Santorini today, Thanatos. Perhaps we could discuss them on the main deck when you’ve eaten?”

“We can discuss them now.” Than gestures to the armchair in the corner of the room, a few paces away from the bed. “Please, sit.”

“Sure.” Zagreus sits on the edge of the armchair, back perfectly straight, his face perfectly neutral. 

For a moment Than wonders what he looks like, relaxed and smiling and happy. Is the real, off duty Zagreus very different from work Zagreus? A sudden bolt of envy flashes through him as he wonders what it would be like to get to know someone like Zagreus without the risk of it weighing over him. Taking him out for a drink, trying to learn what makes him laugh. 

Than picks up the orange juice and takes a hasty sip, washing away the fantasy. “So, Santorini.”

Zagreus smiles. “Yes. Santorini is one of the most famous of the Cyclades islands. It’s known for its picturesque sugarcube houses, clinging to the cliffs above an underwater volcanic crater. It hasn’t erupted since the sixteen hundreds - the eruption led to some spectacular black sand beaches around the island. The caldera, or crater, is about five hundred metres below sea level, and the water around it is very warm.”

Than nods, spearing a piece of melon and lifting it to his mouth. It’s lusciously sweet, the juice flooding his mouth with coolness and flavour. 

“The town of Fira is the capital, with beautiful views and lovely restaurants and shops. It can be a little busy with visitors, but it’s incredibly pretty. There’s a trail that runs from Fira to Oia, which is a very famous place to watch the sunset. If you wish, visiting the towns of Fira and Oia, with a pleasant hike between them, would take the rest of the day. You could have dinner onboard, or at a local restaurant if you prefer.”

Than bites into a crisp forbidden pastry, zesty lemon curd tingling on his tongue. If only he could eat carbs all the time. “A hike sounds good. I like being outside.”

Zagreus nods enthusiastically. “Perfect. You can take the tender to the old port and continue on foot from there. I can accompany you, if you wish, or I can give you information so you, Hypnos, Megaera and Charon can explore on your own, whichever you prefer.”

“I’d like you to accompany us.” Than makes the request before he’s even engaged his brain. “You mentioned black sand beaches?”

“Yes, they’re absolutely gorgeous.” Zag’s eyes sparkle briefly before he looks away. “But I’d recommend saving them for tomorrow. No need to rush, you’re on vacation, relax and enjoy.”

“Alright.” Than places his fork onto the empty plate, draining the last of the coffee from his cup. “Let me just take a shower and I’ll come find you all.”

“Of course. I think Hypnos and Megaera were planning on showering as well, since they both took a dip in the sea earlier on. Take your time, I’ll be on the main deck when you’re ready.” Zagreus smiles, stepping forward to remove the tray gently from Than’s lap. He smells of the sea, salty and fresh, layered with citrus and something warm and tangy that Than can’t quite put his finger on. The scent dissipates as soon as he steps back. He wishes Than an enjoyable shower and slips out of the bedroom door.

The shower is surprisingly powerful for being on a yacht. Than enjoys the feeling of the warm water beating down on the back of his neck, washing the remnants of his headache away. The memory of Zagreus’ too tight polo shirt and the scent of his skin pops into Than’s mind as he washes himself, tempting him towards a private fantasy. He’s so tired of ignoring any hint of attraction to other men, so tired of trying to satiate himself with anonymous porn that can never provide the connection he craves. He keeps his hands away from his dick, knowing that fantasising about the man charged with looking after him for the next eleven nights is a recipe for disaster, nothing more and nothing less.

When he makes it upstairs, the main deck is drenched in bright, buttery sunlight, Hypnos and Charon playing cards on the couches, Charon wearing a surprisingly bright Hawaiian shirt. Zagreus hovers behind the bar, smiling as Than wanders over, bypassing the game. 

"Would you like a drink before we depart?" Zagreus asks. 

"I'm fine for now. Can I grab a bottle of water to take with us?" 

"I packed some water into my backpack, I'll carry it for you." Zagreus smiles. "Anything else you'd like me to pack?"

"Water's good." Than replies, turning back to the couches. "Hyp, where's Megaera?"

"Said she'd be up as soon as she showered," Hypnos mumbles, staring intently at the fan of cards held firmly in his hand. Charon chuckles, probably already winning as he often does, his poker face nearly unbeatable. Hypnos sighs and throws his cards onto the low coffee table. "Fold. You missed a nice morning in the water, Than. Sea's beautiful, and the boat has some great toys. Should have seen Charon on the jetski, he was the only one brave enough to try it. Of course he was a natural."

"There's always tomorrow." Than takes a seat adjacent to Hypnos, smiling at the wide grin on Charon's face at the latest of a long line of victories. "Did Zagreus fill you in on the plan for this afternoon?" 

"Yeah. Fira and Oia, and a hike in between, right? The walking bit doesn't sound very relaxing, but it's your vacation."

"It's our vacation, Hyp. If you don't want to do the hike, I'll do it alone and meet you in Oia, it's all good." 

"What's this about hiking?" Megaera asks, approaching the table in a blue sundress. 

"Than wants to hike from Fira to Oia," Hypnos says, tossing back the last of his drink.

"It's a fairly easy ten kilometre hike, and it’s paved most of the way," Zagreus adds helpfully as he approaches from the bar. "Would you like a drink before we depart, Megaera?"

"Nah, I’m good. Glad I'm wearing sneakers. Let's get moving. We taking water?" Megaera replies, glancing at Zagreus.

"I'll bring water and sunscreen. If at any time the hike isn't enjoyable, I can call a car to take us the rest of the way to Oia." Zagreus smiles reassuringly. 

Than finds himself again wondering whether he'll ever see Zagreus' real smile. He stands abruptly. "Let's go."

Fira is, as Zagreus promised, absolutely stunning. The cuboid buildings seem to sprout organically from the cliffs, their immaculately whitewashed facades glowing almost blindingly bright against the blue sky. They take the cable car up from the old port, admiring the town as they draw slowly closer, tracing the winding roads with eager eyes. 

The tourists travelling with them in the cable car are too entranced by the approaching town to spare them a second look. Even so, Than tucks a wisp of blonde hair back into his baseball cap, making sure his oversized shades are positioned properly on the bridge of his nose. 

The town ahead is busy with people, enjoying a drink under parasols outside bars or simply strolling through the narrow streets. Eventually they find themselves wandering down a seemingly never ending street filled with shops and boutiques, pausing every few minutes for Megaera and Hypnos to admire some pretty trinket. Charon stays close, watching the people moving around them carefully. 

"Water, sir?" Zagreus passes Than a bottle of water, somehow still cool despite the sweltering heat of the day. 

Than takes the bottle from his outstretched hand and cracks it open. "Is it always this busy?''

"Yes, with the cruise ships and the regular tourists, the streets are usually crowded," Zag replies. "Would you prefer to be somewhere quieter?"

"When Hyp and Meg are done. I don't feel comfortable in crowds these days. Too many memories of being mobbed." Than is aware he's being brusque again, his usual reaction to feeling uncomfortable. "I'm looking forward to walking the trail." 

Eventually Hyp and Meg return from a boutique, carrying small, elegant bags stuffed with tissue paper. 

"This place is real cute, Zagreus. It's pretty hot out, and we passed a bar a few minutes ago. Anyone want to stop for a drink?" Meg points back up the bustling street.

"If we want to arrive in Oia with time before sunset, we'll need to start walking soon." Zagreus says apologetically. Than glances over, wondering if he's trying to move them subtly along to make Than happy. The thought almost lifts the corners of his lips before he reminds himself that Zagreus is paid to ensure he's happy.

"Does anyone mind if I stay? Zagreus, if you know the number of a car service I'll meet you all in Oia later for the sunset." Meg looks at Than, raising her eyebrows as if to check that she's allowed to make her own plans.

"It's your vacation too, Meg, do what makes you happy." Than shrugs. "I know not everyone enjoys walking in the sun."

"Yeah, about that. I'll stay here with Meg, Than. You, Zagreus and Charon don't need me, I'll just slow you down," Hypnos says, knocking Than's shoulder gently with his own.

"No problem," Than murmurs, relieved not to be compelling everyone into a hike. 

Zagreus shares the details of a car company with Meg and Hypnos, inviting them to call when they get to Oia so they can watch the sunset together. They head back up the street in search of a bar, Charon and Than turning to follow Zagreus to the start of the trail.

They walk at a leisurely pace, keeping the sparkling azure water to their left. The trail is relatively quiet, just a few other people walking along it at different paces, many of them veering off to explore the narrow, winding streets of Fira and the tiny villages just beyond its borders.

Less than a mile along the path, Charon trips on a loose cobble, tumbling awkwardly to the ground. Zagreus kneels beside him, pulling a first aid kit from his backpack and examining Charon's ankle, already swollen from the fall. 

"I'll call a car. It looks like it's just a sprain, but you'll need to elevate it and ice it. I'm sorry, Charon, we'll have to get you back to the yacht." Zagreus straps Charon's ankle carefully and helps him stand, supporting his not inconsiderable weight as they hobble towards the road.

Than helps, winding an arm around Charon's waist while Zagreus calls for a car. It doesn't take long to arrive, the service obviously accustomed to dealing with impatient clientele. Charon drops heavily into the backseat, taking care not to jostle his injured ankle. Than is about to walk around to the other side of the car when Charon points back towards the trail. 

"Go." Charon half smiles, half grimaces.

"But –" Than starts. 

Charon cuts him off with an impatient grunt. "Low risk. Go. Enjoy."

Than's heart leaps. "Are you sure, Charon? I really don't mind going back to the yacht with you." 

Charon merely rolls his eyes. Zagreus speaks to the driver and makes a couple of phone calls before slapping the car's shiny black roof. They watch as it drives away into the distance. 

"Let's go." Zagreus smiles, leading Than back to the trail. 

They don’t talk much, walking steadily side by side as the path morphs slowly from cobbles to paving to dirt below their feet. Than admires the uniformly dazzling white buildings, their doors and window frames occasionally painted a richly contrasting cobalt blue. Zagreus points out a blue domed church, its bells ringing out as they pass by. The trail passes smoothly from village to cliffside to road, offering alternating glimpses of Oia and the shimmering sea. 

They walk up a steep incline, the dirt path littered with rocks, the very last part of the trail before they reach Oia, according to Zagreus. At the top of the hill, they gaze over the town, whitewashed buildings crammed into the landscape like densely packed sugar cubes. Than breathes in the fresh air, enjoying the prickle of the sun on his forearms. For the first time since the tour finished, he feels peaceful, unburdened by the pressures of fame. Zagreus’ company is comfortable and unobtrusive, making Than feel as if he’s walking with an old friend. He wonders if this is a reflection of who Zagreus really is, or if it’s a carefully cultivated skill required for working with demanding clients.

“From here, we can walk down into the town and meet up with the others,” Zagreus says before tipping the last of his water into his mouth. “We can get a drink or something to eat if you’d like, too.”

Than doesn’t feel like rejoining Hypnos and Megaera just yet, Zagreus’ company almost as soothing as being alone. “What would you do, Zagreus? If it was your call?”

Zagreus starts, as if he’s surprised that Than would be interested in his opinion. “Well, I… I guess…” He flushes adorably before a wide smile overtakes his face. “There’s this amazing gyros place in Oia. Right next door to a great ice cream place. If it were my call… I’d stuff my face while looking out over the caldera.”

Than smiles, grateful for the glimpse of a more casual Zagreus. “Sounds good. Let’s go.”

Zagreus leads the way to a tiny kiosk, ordering in rapid fire Greek while Than nabs a bench overlooking the ocean. Zagreus returns with a paper wrapped stuffed pitta bread in each hand, passing one to Than before sitting down beside him. “Here. The best gyros on Santorini. The tzatziki is pretty heavy on the garlic, hope that’s okay.”

Than nods, his mouth already full of the most meltingly tender gyros he’s ever tasted. The tzatziki is very garlicky, complementing the meat, the vegetables and the fluffy pitta perfectly. Before he knows it, he’s devoured the entire thing. “That was amazing. Don’t tell anyone I ate the bread.”

Zagreus grins at him, still working through his own portion. “All that hiking made you hungry, huh?”

“Yeah. Same when I’m in the mountains. I pack a ton of sandwiches and just go out hiking. Very rare to see people on the trails. So peaceful.”

“I would have thought you thrived on being with people, from your work,” Zagreus says softly, his body turned slightly towards Than. He visibly shakes himself. “I’m sorry, that was a bit personal. I overstepped.”

“It’s fine. It’s a natural thing to assume,” Than replies, wiping his mouth with a paper napkin, happy to see beyond Zag’s professional facade. “I used to. Thrive on being with people, that is. But now… most of the people I meet want something from me. Or they’re paid to be with me. Hyp, Megaera and Charon are the only people I can really trust.”

“Sounds lonely,” Zagreus murmurs.

“It is. People don’t think about that when they imagine what it’s like to be famous. You start belonging to the public. Stop belonging to yourself.” Than takes a deep breath. “I know I sound ungrateful, complaining like this even though I have more than one person could ever need. It’s just… not all you dream it will be. Not at all.”

“It’s okay. Having feelings is always okay.” Zagreus smiles, screwing up his empty, grease streaked paper. “You know what you don’t have, though?”

“What?”

“Ice cream. The best Greek lemon ice cream you’ve ever tasted. Can I get you a cone?”

“Oh. No, let me get it.” Than gathers up his discarded paper, gently taking Zagreus’ from his hands. 

“Well, anything I buy for us while we’re out just gets charged back to you as part of the final bill, so technically, you got the gyros already.” Zagreus looks uncomfortable. 

Than laughs, the sound slipping unexpectedly from his lips. He feels lighter, refreshed by Zagreus’ honesty and his seeming discomfort with the situation. “Let’s call the gyros an official vacation expense, then. But let me get the ice cream. As a thank you.”

“For what?” Zagreus raises his eyebrows.

“For taking me on a really good hike. For bringing me here and not some fancy, exclusive restaurant.” 

Zagreus hesitates. “Okay. Thank you. Do you want me to order?”

“I’ll figure it out.” Than gets up, disposing of their trash in a nearby bin and walking over to the ice cream shop. 

He returns with two waffle cones brimming with ice cream, already softening and melting in the early evening sun. He takes a seat beside Zagreus, passing him one of the cones, shaking drops of melted ice cream from his fingers as he does. Zagreus takes an enthusiastic bite of ice cream, making a soft noise in his throat at the taste and sending melting rivulets snaking down his fingers. He licks them away, his lips making soft suckling sounds as he cleans his ice cream streaked fingers.

Than suddenly remembers what he dreamt about last night. Zagreus, on his knees, calling him sir and asking for permission to suck him off. He’d devoured Than’s cock with just as much enthusiasm, his mismatched eyes heated and bright with desire. 

He files the memory away for later and takes a bite of his own ice cream, hoping Zagreus is sufficiently distracted that he doesn’t notice the heat creeping across Than’s cheeks. 

This time, Zagreus finishes first. “It’s good, right?”

“Mmm, yeah, so good.” Than crunches the last of the waffle cone, sighing with pleasure. “Great recommendation, Zagreus.”

“You can call me Zag, you know,” Zagreus murmurs, looking away. 

“Oh. Thanks. And… you can call me Than, if you like,” Than replies softly.

“Okay,” Zag coughs. “Um, should we call the others?”

“Nah. I’m enjoying the peace and quiet. I’ll text Hypnos and tell him we’ll meet him and Meg back on the boat.”

“Yacht. She’s a yacht.” Zag blushes, as if he’s not used to correcting his clients on the correct terminology.

Than inclines his head. “Alright. We can meet them back on the yacht. What now?”

“Watching the sunset over Oia? The best spots get very crowded, but I know a place where we can view the sunset in peace.”

Than smiles, grateful for Zag’s attentiveness, even if it is driven by professional courtesy. “Sounds great, Zag. Lead the way.”

Chapter Text

Received 11:49
Zag, would you mind bringing me an orange juice please?

The message arrives just as Zag is leaving the kitchen, having collected the menu cards for tonight’s dinner. He turns right around, checking the fridge for leftover juice from breakfast and finding it empty. He taps out a quick text to Than, explaining the need to squeeze some fresh juice and apologising for the delay.

He collects some fragrant oranges from the store cupboard and heads over to the juicer, ignoring Chef’s irritated huff. He understands why Chef is annoyed with him: the group had planned to eat a late dinner onboard last night after viewing the sunset, but only three quarters of them had shown up. Zag had tried to explain that Than wanted to stay out, admiring the twinkling lights of Oia from the balcony of a boutique hotel with a bottle of wine and some charcuterie, but his explanation hadn’t stopped Chef from being annoyed.

He allows himself a little daydream as he works through the oranges. In his mind, the previous day turns from a professional obligation into a date, from showing his VIP client the delights of Santorini to taking a potential partner to some of his favourite places. Than is gorgeous, yes, but the time they spent together hiking, eating and sitting quietly under the stars has given Zag a tiny glimpse into his personality. He’s intriguing. Zag wants to know him better, to understand him. 

If yesterday had been a date, he would have kissed Than on the balcony, the moonlit landscape of Oia laid out like a gift before them. Maybe he would have taken him home or to a hotel, undressed him slowly, explored his body and learnt what makes him shiver and sigh. 

Zag sighs, turning off the juicer and cleaning up the counter, keen to avoid further aggravating Chef. The jug of orange juice goes into the fridge, the glass for Than set on a silver tray and carried out of the kitchen towards the sun deck.

He almost drops the tray when he steps into the bright late morning light. Than sprawls on a sun lounger, wearing a vintage Metallica t-shirt and a pair of tight swim shorts. His legs. Fuck, his legs. He has thick, muscular thighs and defined calves, and his brown skin gleams in the sun, tiny hairs catching the light. 

Zag composes himself as he approaches. “Your juice, sir.”

Hypnos waves jauntily from the sunbed beside Than's. They share the same cool, almost grey toned brown skin, but Hypnos is much less muscular than Than. Not that Zag should be comparing, of course, he reminds himself.

“I thought we were over the sir stuff by now, Zag?” Than grins, sitting up and reaching for the frosty glass. “Thanks, appreciate it. Listen, I was talking to the others about today. How about we visit one of those black sand beaches you mentioned?"

"Of course. Would I be correct in assuming you'd prefer a quiet beach?" Zag asks, trying not to stare at the gorgeous body draped over the sun lounger, illicit desire pooling in his belly. 

"Yeah. The fewer people the better," Than replies, glancing over at Charon, who smiles back approvingly. 

"In that case, I'd suggest Columbo Beach, which is generally quiet. As far as I'm aware, it's rare to see more than a few others on the beach at any time. However, its seclusion does mean that it attracts those who don't feel comfortable or welcome at the more popular beaches, for example queer couples and naturists." Zag pauses, curious to witness Than's reaction. Is he open minded, conservative, neutral? 

Than's face remains impassive. Hypnos shoots him a look, so fast that Zag can't interpret it. A difference of views, maybe?

"Quiet's good. So long as we're not close to anyone else and the beach isn't full of naked people I think it'll be alright. We’ll need to keep an eye out since Charon can’t come," Hypnos muses. "How will we get there?"

"Someone will take you over in the tender," Zag replies, glancing between the brothers. 

"You're not coming?" Than sounds surprised. 

"I can accompany you if you prefer." Zag fixes a professional smile on his face. As much as he would love to spend more time with Than, yesterday's excursion led to a late night flurry of activity to catch up on the interior work. 

"Please. Let's leave in an hour, take lunch with us?" 

"Absolutely. Anything else I can get you before we leave?" Zag starts making a mental list of everything he needs to do to prepare to make sure the beach trip is absolutely perfect.

"I'll take an orange juice too, thanks," Hypnos says. 

"Coming right up." Zag walks smoothly away, speeding up as he approaches the stairs that lead to the galley.

An hour later, he's sitting next to Hypnos on the tender, a cooler of drinks and food at his feet. Anna and Daniel are working their way through the cleaning, interior repairs and laundry, Chef is preparing dinner, and Poseidon is plotting courses to potential islands for Zag to present to their guests in the morning. Zag feels as if he's crammed several hours worth of work into the past hour. He stifles a yawn as the bosun confidently navigates their course to Columbo Beach. 

The frenetic work is worth it for the delight on their guests' faces. The landscape is almost lunar, flanked on one side by high cliffs of dark rock that cast long shadows on the charcoal sand, rendering it almost carbon black in the shade. A small cluster of parasols are clumped together in the sun, none of them occupied, the shaded end similarly deserted.

"Wow. It's beautiful," Than murmurs, taking his sunglasses off to better drink in the view. 

"Amazing," Hypnos agrees. 

Zag works with the bosun to assemble a portable gazebo on a sunny patch of sand, quickly constructing three wooden sun loungers in the cool shade beneath its canopy. He straps the striped padding into place, draping thick beach towels on top and hoping the makeshift lounging area is comfortable enough for his charges. The guests sit down, gazing out over the sand to watch the waves break on the shore. Zag is pleased to see them relaxing into their seats, either comfortable enough or distracted by the beauty of the ocean laid out before them. 

He uncovers a platter of cheeses, crudité and charcuterie and sets it on a portable table, adding a plate of sliced fresh fruit. A bowl of fresh chopped salad follows from the cooler, and then a basket of fresh bread and butter, elegant glasses, and bottles of champagne and fresh lemonade. He puts a plate together for each guest, piling their plates full of delicious morsels and handing them over with a cloth napkin, delighted to see them all nibbling happily. 

"Zag, aren't you hungry?" Than asks, laying his fork down on his plate. "Sit. Eat with us." 

Zag tries to brush the invitation off, but Than is insistent. He sits cross legged on the soft sand beside him, tearing a crusty bread roll open and slathering it with butter. Than stands, walking to the table, gesturing for Zag to sit when he tries to hop up to intercept him. He picks up the platter of fruit, holding it carefully in his broad hands, offering the beautifully arranged slices to Zag as if he's the honoured guest. Zag blushes, feeling at once out of place and curiously relaxed. 

After lunch, Meg takes a book from her bag, settling back into the sand and flipping the well thumbed pages open. Hypnos sprawls on his back, gazing up at the cloudless blue sky until his breathing deepens into a light snore.

"Walk with me?" Than asks, not waiting for an answer before he stands, stepping out of the shade into the sun and walking away from the gazebo.

They amble slowly down the beach, the sand beneath their feet transitioning from almost too warm to cool and refreshing as they pass into the shadows cast by the dark rocks. 

“How’re you liking the beach?” Zag asks, trailing slightly behind to let Than lead the way.

He glances over his shoulder, pausing to let Zag catch up. “It’s gorgeous. The sand is incredible, so dark and still really soft. You mind walking in the water?”

“Whatever you want, Than.”

Than shoots him a bemused look, guiding them back into the sunlight towards to the surf. “Huh. The water’s really warm.”

“That’s the caldera. It heats up the water in this part of the sea. It’s lovely to swim in, if you like.”

“Maybe later. You like swimming?”

“Yeah. I grew up on one of the islands, so the sea has always been a big part of my life. I love the water. One of the reasons I decided to apply to the yacht company.”

Than nods. “I grew up in a city. I guess that’s one of the reasons I appreciate the mountains so much now.”

“Did you always want to be a world famous rock star?” The question slips from Zag’s lips before he can stop himself. He blushes, aware that he’s once again committed one of the cardinal sins of his job, asking a client personal questions. “Sorry. I shouldn’t have asked. Forget it.”

“It’s okay. I was pretty young when I was discovered, just seventeen. Didn’t really know what I wanted to do, just knew I enjoyed music more than anything else. Sounds strange, but everything kind of snowballed and before I knew it, I was nineteen and more famous than I could ever have imagined. It was too late to think about whether I actually wanted it or not.” Than pauses, pulling his baseball cap off and shaking out his long hair, fingers combing through the blonde strands thoughtfully. “Shit, Hypnos would kill me for saying that. No-one likes an ungrateful artist.”

“Your secrets are safe with me,” Zag says, glancing at Than’s face, wishing he wasn’t wearing sunglasses. “If it helps, we can just pretend we’re two completely random people, meeting on a deserted beach in Santorini for the first time.”

Than chuckles, turning towards Zag and extending his hand. “Hi. I’m James, I’m… an accountant, from a small town in Michigan.”

Zag shakes his hand, trying to ignore the thrill of Than’s hand in his own. “Nice to meet you, James. I’m… Ben, I’m a bar owner from Paros.”

“A bar owner, huh? What kind of bar?” Than smiles, turning and walking slowly through the water, wavelets breaking over his ankles, his hair glowing like liquid silver in the light.

“A beach bar,” Zag decides. “We have a pretty simple menu, fresh grilled fish and seafood, and I make great cocktails. My bar is very famous for its… um… ouzo martinis.”

"Ouzo martinis, eh? I'll have to swing by and try one someday. Between working on spreadsheets, you know." Than grins. 

"Well, if you're feeling adventurous, there's a space for you to work on your spreadsheets at the bar whenever you want." Zag smirks. "Might be more interesting than working on spreadsheets in Michigan."

" Anything would be more interesting than working on spreadsheets in Michigan." Than rolls his eyes exaggeratedly. The teasing smile slips from his face, and when he opens his mouth, his voice is softer, more tentative. "Can I ask you a question, Ben?" 

"Sure." 

"Do you feel like you belong, on the yacht... I mean, at your bar? Is it home for you?" 

Zag considers the question, kicking his feet in the shallow water. "Kind of? It's a home, but it's not a sanctuary or anything. My mama's house is the closest thing I have to that. I'm, um, at the bar so much that it makes building a home kind of difficult." 

"Hmm. I know what you mean." Than's voice is pensive, subdued.

"Can I ask you a question, James?" 

Than's lips quirk. "Go ahead. So long as it's not about taxes." 

Zag chuckles. "Where's home for you? Beyond Michigan in general?" He glances up towards Than's face, again wishing he could see the expression in those amber eyes.

"Walked into that one I guess," Than muses. "I don't really have a home. I have houses, but they're places to stay. Not really homes, you know? My place in New York is the closest, but even then… I wouldn't say I have much of a life there. Everything's transient, you know?"

"I know what you mean." Zag smiles sadly. "Hard to put down roots when you're always moving around." 

"Exactly."

"Strange that a mere accountant from Michigan has so many houses, though." Zag winks, trying to lighten the mood.

"What can I say, I'm a very good accountant." Than winks back.

They walk slowly through the surf, side by side. 

"Are you in a relationship, Z- Ben?" Than asks abruptly. 

"Um.. no. Too busy for relationships. Plus the whole spending all my time at the bar thing," Zag replies, a flutter of surprise spreading over his chest.

"Ah. None of the girls working at the bar catch your eye?" Than stares purposefully ahead, his steps smooth and easy in the surf. 

"There are technically no rules against it, but relationships are discouraged. Even so, the boys and the girls on the.. at the bar are coworkers. There's a line. I respect that line." Than's head whips around, his eyes still frustratingly hidden behind his shades. "I'm bisexual." 

Than visibly gulps, the tendons in his neck flexing. Zag frowns. Is he homophobic? Shit. He can't be homophobic, surely? 

"Oh. I see. That's... nice." Than cringes, clearly unsure what to say. "Look, I think… I'm gonna swim. Can you take my t-shirt for me?" 

Zag nods blankly, wondering if he's broken any rules, making a client uncomfortable by being open about his sexuality. Than strips his t-shirt off, revealing smooth brown skin stretched over a ridiculously defined six… no, eight pack, followed by chiselled pecs. He tears off his sunglasses, wrapping them in his t-shirt and throwing the balled up fabric in Zag's direction, his face turned away. 

He doesn't even check to see if Zag catches the bundle before he strides into the water, diving into the waves and swimming out to sea.

Zag trudges back towards the gazebo. As he approaches, Hypnos awakens, yawning and stretching blearily before looking around for his brother. Zag points towards the sea and refills Megaera's champagne glass, anxiety gnawing in his stomach.

The relaxed banter is nowhere to be seen for the rest of the day. Thanatos is detached, perfectly polite without a single flash of warmth. It's as if they're back to being little more than strangers. Zag replays their conversation again and again. Is Than one of those men who feels uncomfortable around men who like men, who assumes they might be subjected to flirtation, or be propositioned?

Zag knows he should be concerned about his job, but the anxiety roiling in the pit of his belly isn't just the ache of knowing you've made a mistake at work. It's also the nausea of having offended a new friend. The prickle of fear that someone you like might not like you. If he's honest with himself, it's also the disappointment that someone you're used to putting on a pedestal has flaws like anyone else.

"Was everything okay with your main course?" Zag murmurs as he collects the empty plates from the dining table. A rumble of muted praise sounds in response, accompanied by polite smiles. Zag sneaks a glance at Thanatos, his face almost entirely hidden in the shadow cast by his platinum hair. One amber eye is visible, lidded and almost glazed, focused on nothing at all.

The atmosphere at the table is stilted. Dinner thus far has been a quiet affair, conversation fading out almost as soon as it begins. Than's silence seems to have dampened the mood, smothering any merriment like a heavy blanket thrown over a fire.

"May I bring dessert, or would you prefer a break?" Zag asks, stacking half of the plates neatly in the crook of his arm, Daniel doing the same at the other side of the table. Anna is enjoying an extended break, assuaging Zag's guilt that she and Daniel had to handle the evening service alone last night. Tomorrow Daniel will have a long break too. Zag is half grateful for Anna’s absence; this kind of tension wouldn't escape without comment, and he wants nothing less than to speculate about the reasons behind Than's cool temperament. Daniel is less likely to want to gossip, thankfully.

"I'm gonna call it a night," Than announces, pushing his chair back and tossing his linen napkin onto the leather placemat in front of him. He strides off towards the staircase before Charon, Hypnos or Megaera have a chance to say anything in response.

Zag hovers, uncertain whether to wait for a response to his question or give the group some privacy. He nods subtly to Daniel, who glides off towards the galley to wait for further instructions.

“Can we skip the dessert and go straight to the scotch?” Megaera sighs.

Hypnos chuckles humourlessly, pushing his fingers through his short curly hair.  “Great idea, Meg. Charon, you in?”

“Definitely,” Charon rumbles, toying nervously with his own napkin.

Hypnos turns to Zag, his eyebrows raised in helpless apology. “Sorry, Zagreus, please apologise to Chef for us. I think Than’s kinda killed the mood.”

“Of course, not a problem at all. Would you like the scotch here or somewhere more comfortable?” Zag replies, his arms beginning to ache with the weight of the crockery.

“Here’s fine,” Megaera replies, slumping back in her white leather chair.

“Give me one moment,” Zag murmurs, hefting the plates as he follows Daniel to the kitchen.

When he reappears bearing a bottle of barrel aged scotch, the group are talking animatedly about their plans for the next day. After two days on Santorini itself, they seem more interested in a lazy day on the water. Zag places the scotch down on the table, label facing his guests, before moving over to the bar area to fetch three cut glass tumblers and a small carafe of chilled water.

“Twenty five year old Bowmore, aged in American bourbon and Spanish sherry casks. Creamy and nutty on the palate, with a slightly smoky finish. Best served neat, or with a splash of water if you prefer. Would you like to taste it?”

“No need, I’m sold on the description alone.” Meg smiles encouragingly. The others nod, watching as Zag opens the bottle and pours healthy measures into the glasses, placing them neatly on top of cocktail napkins in front of his remaining three guests.

“Thanks.” Hypnos glances up at him, a slight smile on his face. “Don’t mind Than. Brooding is his thing, on stage and off. He gets too into his own head sometimes. He’ll snap out of it eventually and apologise for being so grouchy. ”

“I see,” Zag replies, attempting neutrality despite the echoes of anxiety still churning in his stomach. “Is there anything I can bring him? Tea, scotch, anything at all?”

“Nah, best to leave him alone when he’s like this,” Hypnos replies, lifting the crystal tumbler to his lips and taking a curious sip. His eyes close briefly, a pleased hum emanating from his throat. “That’s really good scotch. Thanks, Zagreus.”

“You’re more than welcome. Do let me know if there’s anything else you’d like this evening.” Zag’s smile is automatic. “My apologies, I overheard your discussion about spending the day on the water tomorrow. I wondered if perhaps you’d enjoy some snorkelling? There’s a lovely reef just by the caldera.”

“Perfect. Meg, you in? Charon, assume you’ll be resting your ankle and watching?” Hypnos grins, his eyes suddenly dancing with excitement. Megaera nods enthusiastically, Charon huffing out his begrudging agreement beside her. “Great plan, Zagreus. Don’t worry about Than, he’ll probably spend most of the day tomorrow in his room, ruminating over whatever’s bothering him.”

“Very well, sir,” Zag replies. “Enjoy the scotch. I’ll be back shortly if you need anything.”

Zag hurries through the guest cabins, working with Daniel to turn down the immaculately made beds, refill the glass water bottles, and ensure each room has a plentiful supply of fresh, fluffy towels. He returns to the dining area frequently, pouring more scotch and refreshing the carafe of water until Megaera pushes her chair back, announcing her intention to retire for the night. Hypnos and Charon follow, the taller man leaning heavily on his curly haired brother, his ankle still too tender to support his full weight. 

Zag clears the glasses from the table and removes the evening’s table decorations, bundling the white tablecloth with the linen napkins ready for the laundry. An hour later, the decks are cleaned and tidied, prepared for late night stargazing or early morning lounging. It’s likely that the guests won’t emerge from their cabins before breakfast, but even so, the yacht needs to be perfect just in case.

Daniel is fast asleep when Zag falls into his bunk, the glowing red digits of the interior crew cabin clock counting down the seconds til one in the morning. He pulls the blankets over his head, hoping that Than’s frosty mood will thaw with the light of the morning sun.

Chapter Text

After a terrible night’s sleep, Than can’t stay still, regretting confining himself to his cabin and at the same time too anxious to emerge. He tries to distract himself with the latest industry gossip as he paces the room, but it reminds him too much of the world that awaits him. He throws his iPad onto the bed, watching it hit the cloud soft duvet with a quiet thump.

He takes a few steps across the room and pops the catches on his guitar case, pulling out his Newporter Classic from its padded interior. It’s been around the world with him several times over, this guitar, its spruce and mahogany body lovingly oiled and maintained over the years. It was the first guitar he had bought for himself after signing his record deal, a time in his life when spending five hundred dollars on a guitar still felt incredibly indulgent. He owns far rarer and more expensive guitars now, but this one will always hold a special place in his heart. 

Than sits on the end of the bed, his fingers playing a melancholy chord almost automatically. The soft, soulful notes drift through the air, rising effortlessly as he glides his fingertips over the fretboard.

It haunts him, the shocked expression on Zag’s face, glimpsed as he turned to plunge into the warm sea. For such a fleeting memory, Than feels like he’s examined that expression hundreds of times since yesterday afternoon.

He knows he’s falling into unhealthy patterns, struggling to surface despite the techniques his therapist has taught him over the years. Reliving a memory over and over again, replaying it in his mind until he spirals through a chain of increasingly panicked thoughts which do nothing but reinforce distorted logic that feeds his fears and uncertainties. He knows, but that doesn’t mean he’s succeeding in doing anything about it.

He carries his beloved guitar back to its case, placing it reverently in the case's moulded velvet embrace. The catches swing back into place with a satisfying snap. He paces the length of the cabin again, arms wrapped tightly around his chest, trying to banish Zag’s face from his mind.

Eventually he drops into the armchair in the corner, where Zag sat while Than ate breakfast, the first day. He places his hands deliberately on his thighs, taking a slow, deep breath from his abdomen, imagining his lungs filling with clean, cool air. Imagines the anxiety rushing from his body with his exhalation.

Zag’s shocked face pops into his mind again. The warm water of the ocean drenches him, his thoughts roiling as he swims away from the sand. Bisexual. If Zag is bisexual, then the almost magnetic attraction Than feels… it could be mutual. Or not. He’s unsure if he’s more afraid of the possibility of mutual attraction or the probability that there isn’t mutual attraction. 

Unsafe, his mind screams. Either way, unsafe.

If Than’s interest isn’t reciprocated, at least he can pine in private. Find some porn featuring men with bodies similar enough to Zag’s, indulge in a few fantasies and try not to let the guilt hit him after he comes. Try not to drown in a sea of hollow loneliness, aware that part of him can never, ever have what he wants in reality.

But if it is mutual, what’s the best he can hope for, realistically speaking? Long, meaningful looks across the breakfast table; fighting the urge to ask Zag to come to his room on some frivolous pretext; deepening intimacy held at arm's length and explained away as attentive service?

It’s not like this hasn’t happened before; he’s met a few men with whom he’s shared an immediate connection and attraction, thankfully in situations where it’s easy enough to break off the contact without arousing suspicions. But here, on this yacht, for another ten nights? He groans, springing up from the armchair and pacing across the thick carpet again. 

He could ask Hypnos to talk to the Captain, ask them to find a new chief steward for the rest of the trip. Or just ask that Zagreus keep his distance, consult with Hypnos about their itineraries instead. Either request would be read as a snub, though, a reflection of Zag’s ability to keep a high profile client happy. Either request would have an impact on Zag’s career, and depending on the discretion of the people involved, possibly attract the interest of the press.

Zagreus’ face pops back into his mind. Warm and open, two nights ago in the sunset on the balcony. Shocked, almost hurt, at the abrupt change in Than’s tone on the beach, just yesterday. Than knows he’s been inexcusably cold and cruel since that moment. It doesn’t sit well with him, reacting to someone sharing personal information in such a way. It’s not what he would want for himself, in similar circumstances, or what any person should expect from another. 

He imagines Zag’s casual confession in his own voice. I'm bisexual. A statement of fact, expressed with the expectation of acceptance. As if such an admission were only a piece of information, another piece in the puzzle of who he is, as opposed to a ticking bomb that might fracture and distort his entire reality. 

If the situation had been reversed, and he had said such a thing to Zag, would he hope for acknowledgement, a simple nod of the head, as if to say I see you without judgement, one human being to another? How would he feel if Zag ran off, abandoning him on the beach? If Zag treated him with such cordial coolness in the hours that followed? Guilt gnaws at him, sitting heavily on his chest and warring with fear deep in his belly. 

Sometimes he hates himself so thoroughly he doubts there’s any good inside him.

He closes his eyes, forcing himself to inhale deeply, imagining his breath saturating his lungs, filling his body, making him feel lighter from the inside out until his shoulders soften and slump. He exhales violently, imagining his self loathing tainting and darkening his breath, rushing from his lungs and dissipating harmlessly in the air. Again and again, he breathes, focusing on nothing but his breath, the steady rise and fall of it. Again and again, until he gains some distance from his spiralling thoughts.

Than hears his therapist’s voice in his head. You can’t rewrite the past. What actions could you take, finding yourself here? What might you do differently in the future?

He wants to apologise. Tell Zag that he’s sorry for reacting the way he did. That he doesn’t judge Zag at all for the information he shared. That he hopes Zag can bring himself to forgive Than for reacting as he did. He doesn’t need to share any information about himself. He can just apologise and leave it at that. 

He snatches the yacht phone from the nightstand before he can reconsider.

Sent 10:41
Zag, would you mind coming to my room when you have a moment, please?

He sits down in the armchair again, continuing to focus on his breathing, the feeling of his chest rising and falling with each inhale and exhale. The phone vibrates in his hands a moment later.

Received 10:42
Of course, I’ll be there shortly. Can I bring you anything?

Than winces. He should expect polite, professional Zag. He can’t blame Zag for wanting to create some distance from the person who treated him so badly. 

He stands, propping the bedroom door open and texting back quickly.

Sent 10:42
No, I’m fine, thanks.

It can’t be more than five minutes later when the sound of a firm knock on the outer door permeates the stagnant air of his cabin. “Come through, please.” he calls, hoping Zag can’t hear the slight tremor in his voice through the thick wood and the long hallway. 

A brief moment of silence, and then the sound of a key turning in the outer lock. The door swings open and Zag walks cautiously through the hallway, his expression unreadable in the low light.

“How can I help, sir?” he asks, pausing just outside the bedroom door. The regression to formality is unsurprising, but it grates nonetheless.

“Come in, please,” Than replies, gesturing towards the armchair. Zag passes in a breeze of sea salt and warm citrus, perching on the edge of the chair as Than sits primly on the edge of the bed at a safe distance. “Look, I… I want to apologise.”

“You have nothing to apologise for, sir,” Zagreus ventures, his eyes widening slightly.

“Please call me Than. And we both know I have a lot to apologise for, Zag. Yesterday, on the beach, I…” Than’s throat tightens around the words. He swallows heavily, taking a deep breath. “You shared something with me, and I reacted inappropriately. I’m sorry. I didn’t… I don’t want you to feel like I’m judging you.”

“You don’t want me to feel like you’re judging me, or you aren’t judging me?” Zag asks quietly, gazing at the floor by his feet. He frowns, shaking his head. “I’m sorry, I shouldn’t have… I appreciate the apology, sir. It’s not required, though, you are perfectly entitled to your opinions, whatever they are, and it’s not my place to expect… anything.”

“Um,” Than gulps. “I’m really not judging you. In fact, I admire you.” Shit. Shit. Where did that come from? Than drags in a harsh breath, trying to contain his panic.

“You admire me?” Zag’s eyes snap up to meet Than’s. “What do you mean?”

“You… you’re unapologetic about who you are. I admire that. It takes a lot of courage to do that. I mean… it shouldn’t. People should be able to feel comfortable being who they are, and expect to be accepted whatever… that… might mean.” Zag frowns, his lips parting as if to speak. Than hurries on, aware that he’s digging himself into an even deeper hole, still somehow unable to stop. “I… I wish I had your self assurance. And I wish… I wish I hadn’t let you down when I reacted the way I did.”

“Than,” Zag says, his tone tentative. Than’s heart splutters at the return to informality, at the casual use of his name. “Is there something… is there a reason why you reacted how you did? I’m sorry for the personal question, but… since we’re having the kind of conversation that might lead to me losing my job anyway, I figure we might as well be direct with each other. When I said your secrets were safe with me, I meant it. If you’d feel more comfortable if I left the yacht, I won’t say anything. I’ll make up an excuse to leave.”

“I don’t want… I would never want you to lose your job, Zag.” Than leans towards him, hoping Zag can hear the truth in his voice. “This conversation is just between us. I promise. I don’t want you to leave.”

“Okay. I appreciate that,” Zag says, his face still guarded. 

An uncertain silence settles over them. 

"I'm bi too," Than blurts, his heart speeding in his chest. "Fuck, I… I've never said that to anyone. Never even said it out loud. I reacted because… because…" Zag raises an eyebrow. Than swallows the words he wants to say. Because I'm attracted to you and I'm scared. "I reacted because I panicked. I wish I could be honest like you are but... I can't. My career… the label… the press…" Than buries his face in his hands, his shoulders beginning to tremble. 

"It's okay. I won't tell anyone. You can trust me, Than." When he looks up, Zag's eyes are serious and earnest. "I'll forget you said anything, okay?" 

"Okay," Than says, his voice small and nervous. "Do you forgive me?"

"Of course. Coming out can be terrifying. I get it." A bolt of fear flashes through Than's chest. It must reflect in his face, because Zag raises his eyebrows, quickly correcting himself. "Not that you came out. You didn't say anything. It was probably James, come to think of it. The unusually successful bisexual accountant from Michigan." Zag gives him a small, hopeful smile.  

"Yeah. James." Than feels his lips twitch upwards involuntarily, even though he knows he really doesn't deserve the comfort. "Thanks, Zag." 

"You're welcome. Anything I can do for you?"

Hold me. Kiss me. Than forces the words out of his mouth and down his throat, hiding them deep in his chest. "Let's talk about something else."

"Alright. Any thoughts on what you want to do today? Hypnos and Megaera want to use the water toys and do a little snorkelling." 

"Sounds good to me. You said we should spend three or four days on each island, right? Where are we heading next?" 

"I'd recommend sailing to Naxos next. There are some great trails there, and some truly beautiful ancient monuments, too." 

"Sounds good. Did the others eat breakfast already?" Zag nods apologetically. "Guess that's what I get for hiding in here all morning. Let me just get changed and I'll come up to the main deck."

"I can get some pastries and fruit for you, if you like?" Zag offers, his voice soft. For a moment, Than could almost pretend that he cares.

"Thanks," he nods. "I'll be up in ten minutes."

They stand at the same time, pausing for a moment as if uncertain of how to move around each other. Zag smiles his professional smile, stepping towards the door, and Than follows, holding it open as Zag walks over the threshold into the hallway. 

He pauses, turning back to face Than. "If you ever want to talk, let me know, okay? I can't pretend I know what you're going through, but I'm a good listener." He reaches out, slowly enough that Than could step back if he wanted to. He doesn't, watching Zag's hand as it draws closer, patting his bicep with such gentle tenderness that it's all Than can do to stop himself leaning into the contact.

Than nods automatically, watching as Zag withdraws his hand and disappears down the hallway and out of his room. The wave of yearning that crashes over him is strong enough that his steps falter as he walks through to the bathroom to splash water over his clammy face. 

He squashes the feeling down. Just because Zag is bi and Than is bi doesn't mean that there's mutual attraction. He focuses on the twin tendrils of relief which snake through his chest, one the warm white gold of forgiveness and one the peaceful pale blue of feeling seen for the first time in his life.

Ten minutes later, he takes a seat at the dining table, the solitary placemat bearing a plate of pastries and fruit set next to a glass of fresh juice. A folded piece of paper peeks out from beneath the white china. He frees it carefully and flips it open. 

Than - take your time over breakfast if you like. I'll be teaching Hypnos and Meg the basics on one of the jetskis, come join us on the lower deck when you're ready. - Z 

Than tucks the note into his pocket and digs into his breakfast, spearing a chunk of juicy melon and lifting it to his lips. The sound of an engine cuts through the air, followed shortly by the distinctive sound of Hypnos' laughter. He smiles, happy to hear his brother enjoying himself. 

The first thing he sees when he makes his way down to the tender garage is Charon, sitting at the end of the boat, his feet dangling in the water. 

"Ankle feeling any better?" Than asks, standing beside his brother and peering down at the gigantic floppy sun hat perched on his head. 

"Yeah," Charon rumbles. "Nearly healed."

"Glad to hear it. Missed you these past couple of days." 

The hat tips slowly forward and back, presumably echoing the nodding head beneath it.  

Zag emerges from the depths of the tender garage, a life vest held loosely in his hands. "Than, you're here. Ready for a jetski lesson?" His smile is sunny and genuine, lighting up his entire face. 

Than's stomach does a little flip. "Yeah, I'm ready."

"Okay, good. Hypnos should be coming back round in a minute. I'll ask him to share with Meg for a bit while I show you the ropes." 

Than gazes out on the water, tracking the distant figures of Hypnos and Meg flying joyfully across the water, each wearing luminous yellow life vests. They zoom up and down, maintaining a careful distance between them, avoiding the choppy waters left in their wakes. Even with his shades on the sun is bright enough to bleach the scene in front of him, the light almost blinding when it bounces off the cresting waves.

Eventually Hypnos and Meg point themselves towards the yacht, dutifully slowing down as they approach. 

"Than!" Meg calls, her voice exuberant. "This is fucking amazing! You gotta try it!" 

"Can't wait!" he calls back. 

The jetskis pull up either side of the floating platform at the back of the boat. Meg's grin takes over her entire face, her teeth glinting in the sun. Hypnos jumps deftly from the jetski onto the platform, skipping over to thump Than playfully on the back. 

"So much fun," he trills. "The spray on your legs, the sun in your hair, the speed. So cool."

Zag approaches, passing the life vest to Than and smiling at Hypnos. "Looks like you're both expert jet skiers now. Mind heading out together while I show Than?" 

"I'm driving," Meg states, still perched on her jetski. 

Hypnos rolls his eyes affectionately, already clambering on behind her. "Sure, sure. Let's go." 

"Stay this side of the buoys, remember!" Zag shouts as the engine starts up. 

"We know!" Hypnos yells. Meg executes a perfect curving turn and heads back out into the open water. 

"Your vest isn't quite snug enough," Zag murmurs, stepping closer. Than holds his breath as he pulls at the dangling straps until the vest hugs Than's upper body tightly. "It needs to be tight enough that it won't fly off if you fall. Not that it's likely you'll fall."

"Okay. Thanks," Than mutters, simultaneously thrilled and afraid. 

"I'll drive first, so you get to know how it feels, okay? It's bumpier than you might expect. Just climb on behind me and we'll get going," Zag says, slinging a tanned, muscular leg over the jetski. 

Than climbs on behind him, maintaining a safe distance between them. He's not sure where to put his hands. He wants to settle them on Zag's waist, but that's out of the question. 

Zag glances back at him over his shoulder. "There's a little ledge behind you, you can hold on to that if you want. You'll feel more secure if you hold on to me, though." 

Than doesn't say anything, his breathing turning shallow and rapid as he considers it. What if someone sees?

"Both Hypnos and Meg held on to me when I showed them, if that helps. You wouldn't be doing anything unusual or suspicious," Zag says gently. "Do whatever makes you comfortable."

Than shuffles forward an inch and places his hands gingerly on the curve of Zag's waist, time slowing as his attention narrows to the contact between them. His mouth floods as he remembers how alluring the taper of Zag's upper body looked in the fitted waistcoat of his evening uniform. His palms tingle at the feeling of Zag's body heat soaking into his skin through his own life vest. Thoroughly distracted, he resists the urge to shuffle closer. 

He feels more than hears Zag inhale sharply, immediately loosening his grip. 

"You're alright," Zag mumbles, turning the key in the ignition and double checking that the strap connecting it to his wrist is secure. "Okay, let's go!" 

They take off over the water, moving slowly until the yacht is a short distance behind them. Zag opens up the throttle, the jet ski engine kicking up until they're bouncing across the rippling waves. Than doesn't think, pressing forward against Zag's broad back, his arms wrapping around his waist. The air whips his hair around his head, obscuring his vision and chilling his cheeks. It's overwhelming and exhilarating, flying free over the ocean, a beaming grin overtaking his face with every moment that passes. Than whoops with excitement as Zag pushes them impossibly faster, his answering laughter just about audible over the engine. 

Eventually Zag slows them to a stop, the yacht tiny in the distance. Than reluctantly peels himself from Zag's back, unwinding his arms from his waist. 

"Good? Enjoy it?" Zag smiles over his shoulder. 

"That was incredible. Can I drive now? Please?"

"She's all yours," Zag replies, tearing the strap around his wrist open, reaching back for Than's arm and securing the velcro in place. He rises, clambering carefully around Than, grabbing his shoulder for support as he moves. The casual contact feels thrillingly good, Than's skin erupting into handprint shaped tingles as Zag lets go and settles behind him. "Let me just show you the controls."

Zag presses in close, his legs bracketing Than's. He walks him through the controls, explaining how to start the engine and how to slowly move forward, how to steer and how to brake. Than tries to focus on Zag's words and not the warmth of his body against his back. 

"Let's go," Zag says, his voice warm and intimate in Than's ear. "Take it easy and we'll be fine."

Than pushes the throttle, bracing himself as the jetski starts moving forwards. He expects Zag to sit back, but he doesn't, one arm snaking around Than's waist. He glances down, admiring the tanned skin and corded muscle briefly before fixing his gaze on the horizon, gradually increasing their speed.

His confidence increases until they're skipping along the water, fast and free. He finds himself laughing, Zag's hand pressed against his belly, the spray dampening his legs in a deliciously cool contrast to the sun beating down on his head. He can almost feel the weight of the world slip from his shoulders and into the frothing surf, sinking under the deep sapphire waters, out of sight. 

He turns the handlebars sharply, and suddenly he's flying, Zag's shout loud in his ear as the jet ski flips and then rights itself. He crashes through water, shocking cold battering and enveloping him as he sinks beneath the surface.

"Than!" Zag's voice is garbled as he drags him up into the warm air, his hand gripping Than's forearm tightly. "You turned too fast. You alright? Any pain?"

Than blinks the water out of his eyes. When his vision clears, he takes one look at Zag's bedraggled hair, beads of seawater coursing down his face, and bursts into joyful laughter. Zag smiles at him, his teeth glowing white in his tanned face. 

When the laughter subsides, Than smiles back. "I'm fine, Zag. Can we go again?"

"Sure, palavé," Zag laughs, releasing his grip on Than's forearm. 

"What does that mean?" Than asks suspiciously, immediately fearing the worst.  

"It means daredevil," Zag smiles affectionately, his voice warm enough that Than shivers despite the cold water. "For someone who's never driven a jetski before, you're doing brilliantly. Come on, Than, show me what you can do." 

They swim side by side to the jetski, bobbing silently in the sparkling water. Zag climbs aboard first, offering Than his hand and helping him to position himself before the handlebars. To Than’s disappointment, Zag keeps his distance as the engine rumbles back into life and as they pick up speed, cutting through the water in the bright afternoon light.

Chapter Text

Zag carries a stack of plates into the kitchen, wrenching the dishwasher open and beginning the dull process of arranging them efficiently inside. They set sail from Santorini early this morning, covering the distance to Naxos quickly and smoothly, their passage aided by the calm waters. The yacht had dropped anchor within view of the Portara, providing a lovely vista for breakfast and intriguing their guests enough to set the itinerary for the day.

His mind drifts back to dinner last night.

"Seared garlic prawns, served with charred broccoli and asparagus," Zag announces, setting a plate of food down in front of Hypnos and then Than as Anna serves the other side of the table.

A chorus of thank yous fills the cooling evening air. Zag glances at Than as he backs away, their eyes connecting quickly before they both look elsewhere. Zag's stomach hollows and twists abruptly as he turns away. 

He leaves Anna to refill their guests' wine and water, ambling to the kitchen to wait for dessert. He watches Chef check the honey hued pears poaching gently in spiced liquor before popping the lid from a container of hazelnut crumb. 

When Anna returns with the scrupulously cleaned plates, he helps her load the dishwasher before taking two of the dessert bowls. They walk back to the table, Than's head snapping towards them as they round the corner into the dining area. 

"Spiced poached pears with Chantilly cream and a hazelnut crumb," Zag murmurs. 

Than dips his spoon into the cream, lifting it to his lips and closing his eyes briefly, sighing softly. 

"You better make up for that in the gym tomorrow, Than," Hypnos chides, digging into his own pear.

"Tsch." Than rolls his eyes, defiantly spooning more cream into his mouth, his amber eyes finding Zag's as he licks a smudge of cream from his lower lip.

Zag and Anna retreat, leaving their guests to their meals. He sends her to clear down and offer after dinner drinks, concocting an excuse to check on something elsewhere in the yacht, his formal uniform uncomfortably snug against his over sensitised skin.

Is it possible that Than is attracted to him?

He thinks back to the anguish on Than's face when he outed himself. His discomfort was obvious, the tell tale sign of someone insecure in their sexuality. It sits strangely with the frequent and slightly overlong eye contact. If he didn't know better, Zag would swear that Than is flirting with him, very subtly, but flirting all the same. 

He isn't quite sure what to make of it. 

His attraction to Than continues to deepen and grow, particularly now they've spent enough time together that Zag is starting to uncover the man behind the public persona. And it's impossible not to admire that body; towering height, gym honed muscles, firm ass. Not that Zag has been looking at Than's ass. Not that much, anyway. 

He pushes the dishwasher shut with a soft thunk, remembering how Than's long blonde hair rippled in the air on the jetski yesterday afternoon, the ends occasionally catching on Zag's stubble. It had the aroma of sunscreen, cut with a spicy warmth that he somehow knows is the scent of Than's unadorned skin. The sensation of Than’s hands grasping his waist pops back into Zag’s mind, the involuntary gasp that had slipped from his lips at the contact. When the jet ski picked up speed, had Than pressed forward into his back out of fear, instinct, or desire? The sudden solidity of his chest against Zag’s back almost sent a shiver down his spine, tingling warmth pooling and blooming through his body like the first deluge of hot water against the back of his neck in the shower. He had wanted to lean back, drop his fingers from the handlebars to Than’s thighs, braced steady behind Zag’s. Tilt his head to the side to offer his neck to Than’s lips, an unspoken tribute.

Zag takes a glass from the cupboard and pours himself a glass of water, downing it quickly and wiping his mouth with the back of his hand. He needs to focus on the job. He's playing tour guide again today, escorting Than and the others to the Portara and into Naxos Town, maybe even around the castle if they're interested in a little history. 

A tiny part of him wishes he and Than were heading out alone. The thought leaves him feeling conflicted; Than is a client, and Zag would do well to remember that. Unwanted flirtation could easily cost him his job. 

He considers the day ahead. The area around the Portara is exposed, with no respite from the hot summer sun. There’s a tiny cafe along the path, often busy with visitors seeking a drink for the path to Palatia, which he suspects might lead to unnecessary anxiety for Than. He throws some chilled drinks into an insulated backpack, sliding a pair of ice packs inside to keep the temperature as low as possible. He raids the store cupboard, adding a tube of sunblock and some basic first aid supplies. Satisfied, he races up the stairs towards the main deck to wait for his charges.

Half an hour later, he’s sitting on the tender next to Than as they zoom towards the port. They’re sitting close enough that his thigh muscles begin to ache from the effort of preventing their knees from bumping together.

Zag leads the group around the harbour towards the islet, admiring how the rocky sides of the smoothly paved path drop off abruptly into the clear water. He turns, walking slowly backwards as he offers the group some context on the site. “We’re walking along the path to the islet of Palatia, which is associated with Ariadne and Dionysus. There are many versions of the myth which describes how Dionysus came to take Ariadne as his wife - in one of them, Dionysus abducted Ariadne on the sands of the islet up ahead of us.”

They amble along the path, looking towards the white marble of the monument ahead and admiring the way the serene turquoise waters of the harbour mirror the perfect cloudless sky to the left. Zag gazes out to sea towards the right, eyes tracing the tawny rocks jutting out from the water, the naturally undulating seabed splashing the cerulean blue with patches of indigo and cobalt.

The path meanders slowly upwards towards the Portara, straggly bushes of brownish green vegetation springing up as they navigate the islet itself. Zag pauses, stepping courteously to the side of the path to let a couple in unnecessarily rugged hiking boots pass by. 

“It’s quite staggering, isn’t it? The Portara is the gigantic doorway of an unfinished temple, thought to be dedicated to Apollo. It was started in the sixth century BC and never completed. It’s made of four huge chunks of marble, each of which weighs about twenty tons.”

Hypnos nods thoughtfully, removing his sunglasses to gaze upon the view, dreamy eyed. Meg pulls her phone from her pocket, snapping a few quick photographs while Charon looks ahead, his face impassive. 

Than wanders closer. “How do you know so much about everything, Zag?”

“Partly because it’s my job. Might have looked up a few facts about this place before we got on the tender, too,” Zag replies, a rueful smile on his lips. “Mostly it's because I grew up in the Cyclades. I was born on Paros, travelled around the islands a lot as a child, and always knew I wanted to make a living among them.”

“How nice, to have such interest in your home,” Hypnos pipes up, sliding his sunglasses back on as he walks towards them. “We grew up in a very boring small town, not much history to learn about, to be honest.”

“Growing up in Greece has its benefits,” Zag says, almost apologetically. “History, conquest, mythology… there’s so much to learn."

“Why was the temple abandoned?” Than asks.

“War.” Zag shrugs. “The ruler who started the project was overthrown. A church was built on top of the remains in the Middle Ages. Under Venetian rule, it was dismantled, and the marble was reused in the castle at the centre of Naxos Town. We can go visit later today, if you’re interested.”

“Yes please.” Megaera sounds eager. “I love history.”

“It’ll be my pleasure to take you to the castle, then,” Zag smiles. 

They keep walking, the path growing steeper and steeper as they approach the Portara.

“It’s even more beautiful at sunset,” Zag comments as Than halts at his side.

“Is there anywhere in Greece which lacks a beautiful sunset?” Than grins. “I’ve only been here four nights, but every single sunset has been spectacular.”

Zag laughs. “I’m glad you think so. To be honest, I take them a little for granted nowadays. I see them, think they’re pretty enough, but I don’t get a sudden rush of wonder or peace the way other people tell me they do.”

“You’re lucky,” Than murmurs. “Seeing so much beauty every day that it becomes mundane.”

Zag steals a glance at Than's face, wishing for the thousandth time that he could see the expression in the amber eyes hidden behind darkened lenses. “Maybe. I’m sure you have the same, with other things. It’s in our nature to take things for granted when they move from being extraordinary to being ordinary.”

Hypnos insists on a group selfie, Than and Charon towering in the background with Hypnos and Megaera crouched at the front. Zag waits out of the frame until Than grabs his wrist, pulling him into the photo, his fingers brushing over Zag’s hip as he nudges him into position in front of him, next to Meg. He tries to make his smile nonchalant, as if drop dead gorgeous world famous rock stars touch him casually all the time.  

When Hypnos has taken a series of photos in rapid succession, Zag drops to one knee, hiding his blush and tugging cool bottles of water from his backpack. He hands them out to the group and cracks one open for himself. He watches Than drink deeply, his throat bobbing as he swallows. He must be baking, all that hair tucked under his baseball cap. Zag takes the empty bottle from his hand and passes him another. “Got to keep hydrated, it’s hot.” 

Than inclines his head, draining the second bottle just as quickly as the first.

Zag leads them back down the path, around the harbour and into Naxos Town. Like Santorini, the buildings are pristine white, the smooth walls accented with stone and marble. Trailing plants spill from window boxes and planters, draping deep green leaves and broad petalled red flowers that contrast with the buildings they decorate. Their group wanders the streets, soaking up the atmosphere and the architecture, passing clusters of people relaxing outside bars, huddled under parasols out of the sun. 

On Zag’s recommendation, they stop at a local place for a quick lunch, ordering wedges of spanakopita to munch as they walk towards the castle. It's decent spanakopita, not half as good as his mother’s, but tasty enough. The group seem to be enjoying it, from the appreciative groans escaping them as they chew.

"Zag, what's this called again?" Than asks, popping the last bite of his portion into his mouth. 

"Spanakopita. Spinach and feta pie with filo." Zag takes another bite himself, impressed with how quickly Than wolfed down the hot pastry.

"I love it, so good," Than groans, eyeing Charon's delicately nibbled piece.

“Mine,” Charon huffs, turning away slightly to protect his spanakopita from his brother.

“Than adores carbs,” Hypnos explains, his eyes twinkling. “If he gave them up for real, he’d get away with less time in the gym, but offer him anything involving pastry or pasta and he turns into a beast.”

“Noted for future reference.” Zag grins.

“Don’t encourage him.” Hypnos rolls his eyes. “The last thing he needs is more carbs.”

Zag smiles uneasily, glancing over at Than to gauge his reaction. He’s a grown man, surely he can make his own decisions about what he does and doesn’t eat? Once again Zag finds himself cursing those damn sunglasses, making it nearly impossible to read him. The slight tightness in his jaw is the only clue Zag is able to find.

The group walks on, approaching the sprawling castle area of Naxos Town, the narrow cobbled streets slowly becoming more and more crowded. They squeeze past a large tour group who are obediently following a man holding a bright yellow flag in the air. Their matching yellow t-shirts give them the look of a gaggle of ducklings following their mother.

“Bit busy,” Hypnos mutters, glancing nervously at Than. “Than, one of those teenage girls keeps looking at you. We should probably head back, unless you want the press to know where you are.”

Than sighs. “Alright. If they find out where we are, they’ll just try to follow us around for the rest of the trip. I’ll go back and hit the gym. Zag, can you call us a car? Is there somewhere we can be picked up?”

“Of course.” Zag pulls his phone out from his pocket, texting a reliable agency on the island. “We can walk over there now.”

“The press don’t care about me. Mind if I stay and see the castle?” Meg asks, her question aimed vaguely at Hypnos and Than.

“Course, Meg, no reason why your day should be ruined,” Than replies, his face impassive.

“Zagreus can stay with you, right?” Hypnos adds. “Since he knows so much about the city and its history. That okay with you, Zag?”

“Of course, I’d be delighted,” Zag nods, even though his head is screaming for him to accompany Than back to the yacht.

“Alright, I’ll head back with Charon. Hyp, you can stay out too.” Than’s tone sounds slightly disappointed. He must have been looking forward to learning more about the castle.

“Nah, I’m good.” Hypnos shakes his head. “You know me, not really into history. If we were talking about a massage or something relaxing, I’d be all in.”

“If you’re interested, I can arrange a private spa visit in the days ahead? There are some excellent retreats on the islands.” Zag’s phone vibrates in his hand. He glances down, tapping a quick reply. “The car’s on its way.”

“Spa sounds great,” Hypnos nods. “Let’s go.”

Zag leads them to the pick up point, where the SUV is already waiting, engine idling. He opens the door for Than, his scent filling Zag’s nostrils briefly as he slides into the air conditioned interior. 

“Call me if you need anything,” Zag says softly, immediately feeling like an idiot. If Than is on the yacht, and Zag is in Naxos Town, how can he possibly help with anything Than might need?

“Thanks.” Than gives him a tiny smile. “Enjoy the castle.”

For the rest of the afternoon, Zag accompanies Meg through the castle, explaining that what’s known as the castle is actually the Venetian old town, the rest of Naxos Town having sprung up around it over the decades since it was built. They visit the Archeological Museum and admire the Glezos Tower, the only remaining tower in a series of twelve running around the perimeter of the castle. He checks his phone regularly, just in case Than has texted, half disappointed and half unsurprised that he hasn’t. He sends a few work related messages, one to Anna with a request to research discreet spa facilities with availability on Naxos and nearby islands, and one to Chef with an update on dinner.

The sky is darkening towards twilight when they finally head back to the yacht, sitting on either side of the tender, sipping at yet another bottle of water.

“Thanks for today, Zagreus.” Meg smiles. “I usually end up exploring the places we visit alone, it was great to have company. Especially company with such an encyclopaedic knowledge of the island.”

“You’re very welcome, Megaera, it was lovely spending the day with you.” 

“I got this for you at one of the little tourist shops while you were on your phone.” She hands him a small green glass bottle.

“Kitron! Thank you. When I get the opportunity to relax with a drink, I really like this stuff. Thanks.” Zag turns the bottle over in his hands, touched by the gift. The spirit is a Naxos specialty, made with the fruit and leaves of the citron tree. The variety Megaera bought is the sweeter, lighter kind, perfect over ice on a warm evening. “I hope you bought some for yourself, too?”

“Don’t you worry about that.” Meg pats the bag at her feet. “Seriously, thanks for running around after us. I know we didn’t exactly turn up with a plan, and you’re doing a lot of work to keep us interested.”

“It’s my pleasure.”

“Still a lot of work. Than can be kinda cold sometimes, I know, but he’s grateful too. He seems a little less tense these past few days.”

Zag can’t resist. “You’ve worked together for a long time?”

“Yeah, for years. He’s great. If you peel away the international rock star facade, he’s very sweet underneath. Doesn’t feel he deserves the fame, gets in his own head a bit. The last tour was hard on him, it’s good to see him relax.”

Zag has a million more questions, but he holds back.

When they reach the yacht, he asks Meg if she needs anything and then quickly excuses himself when she answers in the negative. He takes off towards the crew quarters, desperate to wash the sweat and dust off before he gets changed for dinner service. He pokes his head around the kitchen doorway, watching Anna and Chef prepare for dinner. 

“Zag, that was some last minute menu change,” Anna chides, pointing at him with the tip of a large knife before continuing her work, chopping a large bunch of fresh basil into tiny strips. Chef glares at him from the stove, turning the heat down on a pan of tomato sauce.

“Sorry, sorry. Forgive me? The guests will love it.” Zag offers them a winning smile.

Chef makes a loud, disapproving noise, shooing him out of the kitchen.

Zag crowds into the tiny bathroom he shares with Danjel, hurriedly undressing and diving into the shower cubicle. He usually takes a minute or two to breathe and relax in the shower, head tipped back under the warm water, since privacy is a rarity as a yacht crew member. Tonight, though, he has no time, aware that he needs to be serving drinks and dinner in less than half an hour. 

Luckily, it only takes him fifteen minutes to wash the day from his hair and body, dry off, and put on his evening uniform. He takes a few extra minutes to make sure his hair is dryish and neatly tied back before he heads up to the bar area, ready for service.

The group are already lounging on the couches when he walks out onto the main deck.  

“My most sincere apologies for leaving you unattended. May I offer drinks and nibbles before dinner?”

“No worries, Zagreus,” Megaera shushes him. “We were just talking about how much booze we’re consuming this week, and we decided we’re sticking to water tonight.”

“Ah, very good.” Zag nods. “Just to double check, that also means you won’t be wanting a wine pairing tonight?”

“Some of us do,” Hypnos grumbles.

“We’re fine, thanks.” Megaera smiles sweetly. “It’ll do us good to have a night off.”

“Of course. In that case, I’ll bring you some olives and then go check on dinner with Chef.”

When dinner's nearly ready, he bounds back to the main deck to usher the group over to the table. He carries a carafe of iced water to the table, pouring it into delicate crystal tumblers, and subtly offers other beverages should they wish to partake. They all decline, Hypnos with another eye roll. Zag hides his smirk as he returns to the kitchen.

There are no amuse bouche to serve, no starter or salad course. Hypnos had told Zag that after a few days of multi-course meals, a main course and a light dessert would be plenty going forwards. Chef seemed mildly disgruntled by the relaxed expectations, accommodating them in their own way by making sure the main courses and desserts are miniature works of art, full of flavours and textures to tantalise the taste buds. 

Tonight’s main course is no exception. When Zag had texted earlier with the suggestion of pasta, he hadn’t expected Chef to be able to prepare garidomakaronada at such short notice. Perfect nests of handmade spaghetti coated in fresh tomato and ouzo sauce cradle a pile of plump pink shrimp, served with a large focaccia glistening with olive oil and sprinkled with salt and oregano.

Zag can only imagine that such a dinner would delight any lover of carbohydrates. 

He and Anna carry the plates carefully up to the dining table, placing them in front of their guests and laying the platter of focaccia beside the flickering candles at the centre of the table. He lets Anna introduce the guests to their meal, watching Than’s face as he takes in the feast of carbs and seafood in front of him. He presses his lips together, swallowing hungrily, clearly looking forward to digging in.

When Zag returns for the plates, he’s pleased to see that Than’s has been mopped clean, every drop of sauce gathered up with chunks of focaccia judging by the crumbs clinging to the bowl. 

Dessert is a simple fruit salad with a vanilla yoghurt dressing. Than leaves half of his, rubbing his full belly happily when Zag raises a questioning eyebrow at him. At the end of the meal, Zag brews a pot of mountain tea and places it on the table with four chunky mugs, leaving the group to wind down and relax before bed. Meg and Charon excuse themselves, casting sidelong glances at Hypnos and Than as they remain at the table, eyeing each other warily. As Zag walks off, he overhears Hypnos’ voice, quiet and firm.

“Thanatos, we need to talk.”

He waits a full hour before he returns to the main deck, hoping that he’s given Than and Hypnos long enough to talk about whatever was on Hypnos’ mind. Walking into a fraternal heart to heart feels like the kind of invasion of privacy he imagines would go beyond the pale, even given how open the group has been with him on the trip so far. He peeks around the corner into the dining area, noting that the table is deserted, teapot and mugs clustered neatly at the centre of the table, the candles extinguished.

Zag pads quietly across the polished wood, transferring the tray tucked under his arm to the tabletop and placing the teapot and mugs onto its scuffed surface. He pauses, faint chords drifting through the still night air. He can’t stop himself creeping closer, peering through the shadowy darkness towards the prow of the yacht. The silhouette of a seated man blots out a section of the star spangled sky, turned away from Zag and facing out to sea.

Sometimes I feel like I don’t have a partner
Sometimes I feel like my only friend
Is the city I live in, the city of angels
Lonely as I am, together we cry

Zag draws in a deep breath, taking care to remain silent. He knows he’s intruding, but he can’t bring himself to move. Than’s voice is gorgeous; rich and husky with emotion, far softer than how he belts out his hits during his performances. The poignantly hopeful chords of the song echo out into the darkness from his guitar, complementing his voice beautifully.

I don’t ever want to feel
Like I did that day
Take me to the place I love
Take me all the way

Zag realises that he’s rarely heard Than perform acoustically, most of his tours and albums taking full advantage of amps and an array of other instruments to create a full, rich sound. This pared back, emotional version of Than is jarring, somehow vulnerable and sad where he’s usually vibrant and confident.

It’s hard to believe that there’s nobody out there
It’s hard to believe that I’m all alone
At least I have her love, the city, she loves me
Lonely as I am, together we cry

Than’s voice thickens, blurring with emotion. Zag wonders if he’s crying, or holding back his tears with the song. He stands, frozen in the shadows, unsure whether to follow his instinct to offer comfort or to walk away and leave Than alone. 

Professional courtesy wins out. Zag glides slowly back through the dining area, leaving the tray on the table to pick up early tomorrow morning. Hopefully Than won’t notice the new addition when he eventually returns to his cabin to sleep. 

Zag lies awake for what feels like hours in his narrow bunk, heart full of empathy and sadness for a man who supposedly has it all, but in reality seems to be missing so much from his life. A home, certainty about who he is, freedom to go out without fear of the press, even the ability to eat as many carbs as he likes without being reminded of the physique his public expect. When Zag eventually falls asleep, his dreams are hazy and non-linear, full of melancholy songs sung in a whispered, broken voice, watery amber eyes, and arms wrapped so tight around Zag’s back that he can barely breathe.

Chapter Text

“More hiking, Than? Really?” Hypnos raises an eyebrow, unimpressed.

“Yeah. I like hiking. More fun than going to the gym.” Than glares at his brother, irrationally annoyed at his objections.

“I don’t want to hike.” 

“Well, I do. You don’t have to come. You were the one who said we didn’t have to spend all our time together.”

Zag chews his lip, his mismatched eyes ping ponging between Than and his overly protective brother, sitting bolt upright either side of the dining table.

“Thanatos. We need to talk.” Hypnos barely waits for Megaera and Charon to leave before he fixes his golden eyes on Than’s face. “You’re getting too close to Zagreus.”

Than feels his eyebrows shoot upwards. “What?”

“You heard me. I saw that smile you gave him when he put that plate of pasta in front of you. All the chatting on the way to the castle today. And why the fuck did he call you James?”

Than flushes. “It’s just a silly joke.”

“See, too close. You don’t have in jokes with the staff, Than.” Hypnos frowns.

“He isn't  staff!” Than snaps, anger igniting in his chest.

“He is staff, Thanatos. He’s paid to make sure you have a good time on the yacht, so you’re happy to pay the extortionate bill and maybe happy enough to book another trip in the future. He’s not your friend.”

Shards of icy hurt slice through Than’s heart, made worse by the fact that every word falling from Hypnos’ lips is true.

Hypnos continues. “For all you know, he’s just waiting for you to feed him a prime bit of juicy gossip so he can go to the press.”

“He wouldn’t,” Than whispers, shoulders slumping inwards.

“Don’t be so naive!” Hypnos growls. “For fuck’s sake, you know better than this. He could be a threat to everything we’ve built.”

Than’s chest aches, suddenly hollow with loneliness. He stands abruptly, pushing his chair back with a screech. “You’ve made your point. Leave it the fuck alone. Goodnight, Hypnos.”

Than tries to stare Hypnos down, willing him to back off. He wants to hike. Wants to feel the scorching sun on his skin, the burn of lactic acid in his calves. 

“There are two trails leading up to the summit of Mount Zas,” Zag ventures cautiously. “The easier trail is seven kilometres, starting at the marina. The other is only five kilometres, but a lot more strenuous. Perhaps the easier trail might be a good compromise for you both?”

“I want to do the harder one,” Than retorts, painfully aware that he sounds like a petulant child.

“Fine. Enjoy your hike, Than. Remember what I said.” Hypnos sweeps off, clattering quickly down the staircase towards the guest cabins. 

Than sighs heavily, closing his eyes and rubbing his temples with his ring finger and his thumb. He hates arguing with Hypnos, the uneasy nausea that gathers in his chest when their disagreements linger unresolved. He knows his brother has his best interests at heart, that his criticism comes from a place of love and care… but it feels constricting. Oppressive, almost. 

Than has plenty of celebrity friends, people he invites to parties and secret gigs, and who invite him to premieres and high profile sports events. They joke and laugh, stand together on red carpets smiling through a barrage of flashgun fire, but they don’t talk about anything real. They never share their secret insecurities, open up about their anxiety, expose the real person inside the celebrity shell. Even the girlfriends he's had over the years were held at a slight distance, particularly when their careers were at earlier stages than his own.

The only people Than really opens up to are Hypnos, Charon, Megaera and his therapist. And now Zagreus. It strikes him that Zag knows things about him that even his therapist doesn’t.

Hypnos is right to perceive Zag as a threat. He could end Than’s career with a single phone call. 

“Than?” Zag murmurs, hovering nearby, his mismatched eyes soft and apologetic. “Do you want to talk about today’s itinerary later?”

He knows Zag is giving him an escape route. It would be so easy to say yes, to flee back to his cabin. Figure out how to patch things up with Hypnos, how to cut off his blossoming friendship with Zag.

“No.” His voice sounds dejected even to his own ears. “I want to hike to the top of Mount Zas.” Great, now he sounds both melancholy and childish at the same time.

“Okay,” Zag says quietly. “Do you want to go alone? I can get you some maps, pack some water and snacks.”

“Would you come with me?” Than ventures, his eyes fixed on the tabletop in front of him.

“Of course,” Zag replies. His tone sends a shock wave of longing through Than’s chest, crowding out the loneliness. It’s not the cool, professional “of course, sir” tone. It’s warm, almost intimate. Than could nearly convince himself it’s the tone of someone who genuinely cares for him. Someone offering comfort, not service.

“Meet you by the tender in ten minutes?” Than can’t bring himself to meet Zag’s eyes.

“Sure. I’ll go pack some supplies. It’ll be hot, don’t forget sunscreen.” 

Than waits for Zag’s footsteps to fade away before he returns to his cabin, changing into a light, long sleeve white t-shirt, khaki shorts and sturdy boots. He splashes cool water over his face, gazing at his own reflection, trying to find the resolve to text Zag and tell him he’s changed his mind about the hike.

He stuffs his hair roughly under a baseball cap and snatches his shades from the nightstand before making his way down to the lower deck.

Zag tosses him a muted smile as he climbs into the tender. They sit in a comfortable silence as the bosun starts the tender's engine and navigates them smoothly away from the boat. The early morning sky is a soft, cool blue, streaked with sheer ribbons of cloud, yet to burn off in the sunshine. 

When they reach the marina, a black SUV is waiting for them, the air conditioned interior providing a brief respite from the already warm air. They drive out of Naxos Town and into more natural, rugged terrain. Eventually they begin to climb slowly upwards, following a road clinging to the shrub dotted hillside. 

"The trail starts at Aria Spring," Zag says quietly as they stand at the end of the road, watching the car drive away. "There's a paved section leading to the Cave of Zas, but after that it's all rocky, uneven ground. I'm glad you have sturdy boots, you'll need them."

Than smiles, watching the gentle breeze play in the loose strands escaping Zag's ponytail. "What's the Cave of Zas?" 

"In mythology, the Titan Kronos swallowed each and every one of his children, fearing a prophecy that he would be defeated by his child. When Zeus was born, his mother Rhea raised him in a secret cave so he might escape his father. The Cave of Zas is said to be that cave, although there are other sources which say the cave was in Crete." Zag explains. "It's about twenty minutes from the spring, and it's pretty dark inside. I brought a powerful flashlight in case you wanted to explore it." 

"You really do think of everything, don't you?" 

Zag grins at him. "I try. Should we get going? The longer we leave it, the hotter it'll get."

They set off, walking at a relaxed pace along the path. Before long, they reach the spring, taking a brief pause under the dappled shadows cast by a sprawling plane tree. Zag encourages Than to taste the water that falls from the circular stone ledge into the pool below before he fills their canteens. The water is cool, tangy with minerals gathered in the long journey through the mountain to the spring. Zag passes him a dripping canteen, shaking droplets of water from his fingers as he attaches his own to his small pack.

The landscape around them quickly turns wild, the roughly paved path slicing through the rocky, uneven ground. They pass a few shaggy mountain goats, their yellow eyes following attentively as they walk by. Than feels his shoulders relax the further they walk from civilisation, the rawness of his argument with Hypnos fading to a dull background ache with each lungful of clean, fresh air. 

He sighs, catching sight of Zag glancing up at him at the sound. "Sorry."

"Nothing to apologise for, Than," Zag says mildly. 

They lapse into another comfortable silence. Than lets it wrap around him, the lack of expectation comforting and gentle. He knows he doesn’t need to talk, and yet he finds that he wants to. Despite Hypnos’ warning, he trusts Zagreus.

"I'm sorry I behaved like a child earlier," Than murmurs. "Hypnos and I… we had words last night." Zag makes a soft, neutral sound. Than takes a deep breath and continues, aware that he's doing so partly in petty rebellion. "He means well, but he just… sometimes I think he feels like my career is more important than anything."

"Isn't it?" Zag asks tentatively. 

Than hesitates. "It used to be. I'm not sure if it is any more."

"You're unhappy?" 

"Not unhappy, just… I can't explain it. Something’s not quite right." A bird glides through the air over the path, casting a stark shadow on the sun bleached stone beneath their feet. "Are you happy?"

"Yeah," Zag's reply comes immediately. "There are things missing from my life, obviously, but I'm happy enough."

"What's missing for you?"

"A partner." Zag stares straight ahead, striding forwards in a steady rhythm. "A place of my own, somewhere to call home when I'm not on the yacht. A bit more money would be nice, too. I'd like to take my mother on a trip, see some of the botanical gardens she's read about. She's done so much for me, I'd love to do something for her."

"You're close?"

"Very. I had a complicated relationship with my father, growing up. He got caught up in wanting to provide for his family to the point that he didn't spend any time with his family. He started a company, poured everything into it and left us behind. He was always working, and they eventually separated because of it. When I left school and decided to work in hospitality, he was shocked. He wanted me to take over the company some day. Assumed I wanted it too."

"I’m guessing you didn’t want it?"

"No. I grew up at my mother's side, in the garden. She taught me the value of caring for things, plants, animals and people alike. Taught me to love nature and the world around me and being outside. My papa and I had a huge argument when I decided I wanted to crew a yacht. Mama intervened, banged our heads together. I still see him from time to time… we talk, but things are still a little strained. She said that was better than nothing. I didn't believe her for a while, but she was right. She usually is."

"She sounds wonderful." 

"I adore her. She's so down to earth. Often literally." Zag chuckles. "Whenever I go home, I'm outside with my hands in the dirt within an hour. What's your mother like?"

"She's great. Raised us alone, all three of us. She wasn't surprised when I was discovered, she's a big believer in fate. She always said the three of us would walk through life together." Than pauses, a lump building in his throat. "I miss her."

"You don't get to see her all that often?" 

"Every few months. Between writing, recording, touring, PR, and everything else, I don't get much down time. I can't remember the last time I had longer than a week off, actually. Hypnos arranged this trip with the label. We had to squeeze in a lot of press bullshit around the last few dates of the tour to get their approval." Guilt floods back through Than's belly. "Fuck, I'm such an entitled asshole. He does so much for me. I shouldn't argue with him."

Zag makes a sympathetic noise. "Do you mind if I ask what you argued about? You don't have to answer if you don't want to."

"We argued about you." Than catches Zag's gaze snapping over to his face in his peripheral vision. "He thinks I'm getting too friendly with you. He thinks you could just be digging for info to sell to the press. It's nothing personal," he clarifies hurriedly, observing the grim set of Zag's lips. "He's right to be paranoid. The public are fickle and the press are hungry for scandal. I'm lucky to have had ten years in this industry. We have to be careful if I want ten more."

"I know it doesn't help much, but I'd never betray you like that. When I said your secrets are safe with me, I meant it."

"I know. I trust you. Not sure why, but I do." 

"That means a lot to me," Zag says quietly. "Do you want ten more years, Than?" 

"I don't know what I want. Not any more."

They lapse into a pensive silence. When they reach the Cave of Zas, Zag suggests visiting on the way back down the trail, keen to reach the summit of Mount Zas before the sun climbs to its peak in the sky. They stride on, scrambling over dry earth and jagged rocks. Than pays such close attention to his feet that he nearly walks into a goat, its warning bleat startling him enough that he stumbles. Zag grabs his arm, steadying him before he falls. He mumbles his thanks, cheeks flooding with heat.

“Than, look." Zag’s hand slides up and over his elbow to squeeze his bicep. Than orients his body automatically towards Zag, who smiles at him and guides him gently to turn around. 

The view is stunning. Deep green and rich brown shrubs litter the rocky hills, giving way to verdant grass below. In the middle distance, fields are divided by old grey stone walls, running haphazardly across the terrain with no visible pattern or purpose. The horizon is dominated by the rocky peaks of distant hills, splashed with every shade of green as they meet the meadows below.

Than blows out a breath. “It’s gorgeous. You could almost forget there’s a bustling town down there.”

“Yeah. Come on, it’s not far to the summit. We can have lunch up there, if you like.”

“Sounds great.” Than turns back to Zag, a smile spreading on his lips at the sight of him.

They set off, Zag leading the way. “This probably looks a bit intimidating, but you’ll be fine. Scree and small rocks from here.”

Than follows, keeping his eyes fixed on a spot between Zag’s shoulders, walking slowly and steadily on.

“See that concrete post?” Zag says, pointing up the slope. “That’s the highest point in the Cyclades. We’re about a thousand metres above sea level here.”

The vista laid out before them at the mountain’s summit leaves Than breathless. He turns slowly, taking in the sprawling view, tracing the shoreline of Naxos and the distant sea beyond. Zag stands patiently by his side, gazing over the island, the wind sending stray locks of hair flying around his head like a wild halo.

They find the flattest patch of ground they can, sitting gingerly amongst the rocks to eat lunch. Zag drapes a pristine white cloth over Than’s knee, turning to rummage in his pack. Than can’t help but laugh, the crisp, clean fabric incongruous in the setting. 

“What?” Zag grins, producing a sealed tub of stuffed vine leaves.

“Did you bring silverware too?” Than laughs.

“No, but I did ask Chef to make some spanakopita for you.” Zag places the container of vine leaves in front of Than, adding some olives a moment later. “Although maybe you’d prefer something more rustic to eat, like, I dunno, grass?”

Than laughs again, leaning over to shove at Zag’s shoulder playfully. 

They eat slowly, nibbling at spanakopita, olives and stuffed vine leaves, sipping the tangy water still cool in their canteens. When the containers are empty, Than sighs happily. "That was great, thank you." 

Zag produces another box, this one filled with grapes, offering it to Than with a raised eyebrow. He takes it, pulling off the lid and splitting the bunch carefully, passing half back to Zag. 

The pale green grapes burst in Than's mouth, coating his tongue with sweetness. His belly gurgles, and he puts the remaining grapes back into their box, handing them back to Zag to stow in his pack. 

"Thank you," Than murmurs, taking his sunglasses off and wiping at his sweaty brow with his fingers. 

Zag takes the napkin from his knee, carefully drenching it with cool water from his canteen before offering it back. Than accepts it gratefully, delighting in the freshness that follows. He's used to having assistants and runners around, bringing him water and towels between songs in the darkness backstage, but the care Zag shows him feels different. Than knows he's here because it's his job to be here, and yet he can't shake the feeling that if Than was just a job to him, things would be different. 

He clears his throat, reaching into his small backpack for a tube of sunblock. He squeezes a small amount onto his fingertips, tossing the tube to Zag before rubbing the thick cream carefully over his face. Zag follows, his tanned fingers stroking gently over his face. Than watches, his own fingertips twitching in his lap. 

When Zag opens his eyes, there's a smudge of sunblock high on his cheekbone, gleaming in the light. 

"You, um…" Than mutters, gesturing at his own face. Zag swipes at the wrong cheek. "No, the other side." Zag raises an eyebrow, fingers skating over the apple of his cheek, too low to deal with the smudge. "No, you… can I?" 

Than leans forward, his hand raised tentatively in the air between them. Zag stills, his eyes widening as he leans ever so slightly towards him. Than brushes his thumb over Zag's cheekbone, rubbing the smudge of sunblock into his skin. Zag gazes up at him, mismatched eyes grave as Than's thumb strokes over his cheek, his fingers hovering close to his jaw.

Than leans in, his stomach lurching as Zag's posture mirrors his own, drawing their faces together. His heart thrums in his chest, heat flooding his cheeks as their mouths drift closer. Zag's breath tickles Than's lips, blood rushing to the surface, bringing electric tingles with it. 

They sit, barely an inch between them, neither moving forward to close the distance. Thoughts and emotions race through Than's mind, an overwhelming storm of images and sensations. In his mind's eye, he presses his lips firmly against Zag's, sliding his hand into his overlong dark hair and winding an arm around his waist. He sees Zag melt into his arms, almost feels the warmth of his palm gliding up Than's spine, holding him close. He can almost taste the sugary grape residue on Zag's lips. 

He's about to kiss a man for the first time, he realises, his head blurry with nervousness and sharp with desire. Not just a man, but Zagreus. 

Zagreus. He's about to kiss Zagreus.

"We can't." 

Than blinks, returning back to reality with a crash. "What did you say?"

"We can't," Zag breathes. "Your career. My job. Your argument with Hypnos. It's just… too much."

"You don't want to kiss me?" Than blurts, sitting back, letting his thumb fall from Zag's cheek.

"No! I mean, I do!" Zag yelps, reaching for Than's hand instinctively before dropping his own hand back into his lap. "I would love to kiss you, Than, I really would. But there's too much at stake. For both of us."

Shame and rejection washes over him. Zag is right, of course he is. Wanting to kiss him is one thing, and deserving to kiss him is another, and as much as Than wants nothing more than to kiss him, he doesn't deserve to. 

He doesn't deserve to be the person Zag risks his career for.

He doesn't deserve to kiss Zag like it won't risk his own career in the most devastating of ways. 

He doesn't deserve to embrace who he is on the inside, the person who stares back in the mirror, defiant and unapologetic.

He tears his eyes from Zag's, nodding jaggedly, scrambling to his feet. He gazes off into the distance as Zag shoves everything back into his pack, hefting it onto his shoulders. By implicit agreement they walk, side by side, back down the rocky slope. Than ignores the ache in his chest, hundreds of times deeper than it was last night, when he had felt so lonely that he could only seek solace in the clean night air and his guitar. 

The silence between them is heavier now, stifling and suffocating like a shroud, bound over them with bands of sharp regret. They don't stop to visit the Cave of Zas, or to refill their canteens at the picturesque spring. They don't talk as they wait for the car, nor when they sit too close for comfort as they speed back to the harbour. Than gazes blankly out of the window of the car. When they reach the tender, he gazes blankly out to sea as the bosun takes them home. 

They part ways in the tender garage, no words good enough to be shared in the moment. Than slams his cabin door behind him and throws himself onto the bed, letting the abyss take him. 

Chapter Text

You need this job more than you need his dick.
You need this job more than you need his dick.
You need this job more than you need his dick.

Zag repeats his new mantra to himself over and over again as he empties his pack, stacking the containers from their lunch into the dishwasher on autopilot. He tears the lid from the box of grapes, placing the remaining fruit back into the fridge.

He glances up at the digital clock on the kitchen wall. They made good time, hiking to the summit of Mount Zas, and even better time on the way back down, their feet hurried by the awkwardness between them after their near kiss. It’s barely late afternoon, Chef hasn’t even begun preparations for tonight’s meal, and there are hours left until Zag sees Than at dinner.

Not that he should be looking forward to seeing Than at dinner.

Zag curses softly, rubbing his palm over his face. He needs a distraction. He’s behind on the accounts for Thanatos and his entourage, the receipt spike in the tiny office is nearly full. Logging and balancing the expenses from the trip so far will distract him. He finds spreadsheets deadly dull, data entry perhaps even worse, but it’s the kind of mindless work he needs right now.

He’s halfway to the office when he remembers James, the unusually successful bisexual accountant from Michigan, and his love of spreadsheets. Fuck.

Zag throws himself into the rickety chair, pulling the receipt spike towards him and tugging the mass of paper from it while the computer slowly starts up. He drums his fingers on the desk, turning the stack of receipts upside down so he can log them in chronological order.

The work is boring, but not quite as distracting as he had hoped for. The first few receipts are easy enough, invoices from local suppliers for the crates of fresh produce and fine wine loaded onto the yacht at Rethymno. He dutifully transfers the information into the spreadsheet, scanning each receipt carefully. More supplies, delivered at Santorini, when Zag managed to learn a little more about what their guests would prefer to eat.

He slides an invoice from the car service into the scanner. One passenger, picked up near Fira and taken back to the harbour. Charon, when he sprained his ankle, leaving Than and Zag to hike to Oia alone. The next receipt lifts the corners of his lips. Two orders of gyros. There’s no receipt for the lemon ice cream they’d eaten after the gyros, Than paid for that himself. The next is from the boutique hotel; a bottle of wine, a charcuterie plate, and a small fee for use of the balcony to watch the sunset.

Zag sighs half heartedly. As much as he’d like to forget the connection building between him and Than, remembering the time they’ve spent together so far sparks a warm glow in his chest. It’s hard to believe only six days have passed since Than boarded the yacht. Harder still to believe that in just six days, he’ll be gone.

When the pile of receipts has been dealt with, Zag trudges back to the cabin he shares with Daniel. He needs to shower and change, get ready for pre-dinner drinks and dinner service. The thought of seeing Than under Hypnos’ watchful eye sours his stomach, nauseous regret rising up his throat, trailing a burning, queasy path through his body. He unclips his phone from his hip, texting Anna and asking her to cover for him, claiming a migraine brought on by too much sun.

He can’t relax under the warm water of the shower. He wonders what Miltos, Evgenis and Angelina would say if he told them the story next time they meet at the cliff top bar for a bottle of rakomelo. Miltos would probably chide him for not taking the opportunity to bed a rockstar, and Angelina would ask if he’d thought Than might be the one. He scrubs the shampoo roughly into his hair, shaking his head. He will never tell this story to his friends. He promised Than his secrets were safe, and he meant it.

Zag dresses in shorts and a t-shirt, needing the comfort of soft, cosy fabrics and the familiarity of his own clothes. He flops onto his back on his bunk, letting himself remember what happened at the summit of Mount Zas. The delight in Than’s eyes when Zag laid out their picnic lunch, his amber irises glowing with warmth when Zag presented him with the spanakopita. The way he split the bunch of grapes in two, sharing it with Zag as if he were an equal, rather than someone who might enjoy his leftovers.

The warmth of his thumb, brushing slowly over Zag’s cheekbone. How shallow his breathing became when they leaned in towards one another, the slight tremble of his fingers on Zag’s jaw. The way the atmosphere between them turned thick with heady anticipation, Than’s lips so close Zag could almost taste the sweetness of them.

Had he done the right thing? If he kept his mouth shut, their lips would have drifted together, sweet and unhurried. The kiss might have broken off there, left both of them reeling, or it might have deepened, all Zag’s pent up desire pouring into the movements of his lips against Than’s.

You need this job more than you need his dick.
You need this job more than you need his dick.
You need this job more than you need his dick.

Relationships between crew and client aren’t unheard of, but they are discouraged. What would Captain Poseidon say, if he learned that Zag had come so close to kissing a celebrity client? Would he ask Zag to take some time off, or ask him to leave the yacht entirely? Simply ask him to be discreet?

And for Than, if someone had seen them, sitting so close at the top of Mount Zas, maybe even taken a photo and sent it to the press, what would happen to him? Would his label try to counter the narrative by sending him out on romantic dates with beautiful women, or drop him entirely?

Zag imagines Than having dinner with a beautiful woman at an exclusive restaurant, dressed in ripped jeans and a tight charcoal collared shirt, paparazzi chasing them as they slip into a car at the end of the night. An irrational burst of jealousy slices through him, strong enough that he can’t help but laugh at himself, possessive over a man who isn’t his and who never will be. Even if they had kissed, the best Zag could hope for is a one night stand, maybe a casual fling. Internationally famous, smoking hot, ostensibly straight rock stars don’t get into relationships with yacht crew members born on tiny Greek islands.

Stopping the kiss before it started was the right thing to do, logically speaking. Even if it doesn’t feel like it.

You need this job more than you need his dick.
You need this job more than you need his dick.
You need this job more than you need his dick.

Zag slides into the strange state between wakefulness and sleep, memories and fantasies whirling through his mind like flurries of sparkling snow, light and impossible to pin down. Than’s profile against the sunset in Oia, the curve of his lips as he took a sip of ruby red wine. His back, broad and solid beneath Zag’s cheek as he drives them to a deserted beach on the jetski. His smile, a thousand variations of his smile, the best of them so warm and sweet that Zag knows they’re just for him.

His phone vibrates against his thigh, cutting through his reverie and dragging him back to reality. Zag glances at the time, noticing that it’s somehow almost eight o’clock. Anna must be leading their guests through to the dining table, right about now, pouring wine and water before heading to the galley to fetch dinner. He unlocks his phone, starting when he sees that the message is from the VIP client phone. Than.

Received 19:50
Zag - are you alright? Anna said you had a migraine.

He bites his lip, unsure how to reply. He starts typing a generic I’m fine thanks, then deletes it. Types a variant of the same thing, and deletes it again. He throws the phone dramatically to the end of his bunk, then sits up and retrieves it, tucking it under his pillow. He’ll reply later. If Than believes the migraine story, it’s not so strange that Zag might be resting and not reply.

He lies back, letting himself drift away again.

When he checks his phone again later, it’s one in the morning. He baulks at the time, opening the message thread with Than. He still doesn’t know what to say. Fine thanks, just questioning my life choices. The cabin is dark, Daniel's sleeping form breathing deeply in the bunk above his own. He feels trapped, alone in the dark with his regrets and his mantra, and suddenly he wants nothing more than to feel the fresh sea air on his face.

Zag slides from his bunk, his bare feet landing silently on the floor. He visits the bathroom, splashing cold water on his face and using his fingertips to smooth out the vertical lines that have gathered between his brows. He pads quietly through the crew area and up the stairs, reassured by the silence he meets on the main deck. The dining table and bar area are tidy, ready for the morning service to begin, the lights turned low.

The night sky is bursting with stars, shining so brightly they cut through the thin, hazy clouds. A full moon hangs heavy overhead, large enough that the craters are easily visible. The sea is quiet, wavelets lapping gently against the yacht’s hull in the quiet of the night. Zag blows out a breath, running his hands through his hair. As always, his problems seem so much smaller and less significant with the world spread out above and around him.

He hears a tentative shuffle of a footstep to his left. He turns, heart stuttering as a pair of amber eyes find his. The cool moonlight caresses Than’s cheekbones, the proud slope of his nose, bathing his face in radiance as he steps out of the shadows, only a few metres away.

You need this job more than you need his dick.
You need this job more than you need his dick.
You need this job more than you need his dick.

Zag repeats his mantra again and again in his head, his rebellious lips curving involuntarily into a small smile as Than holds his gaze. Than’s eyes soften as he takes a single step towards him, closing the distance slowly, as if in a dream.

You need this job more than you need his dick.

The words ring hollow in Zag’s mind. He knows kissing Than could end both of their careers, but he wants to kiss him, wants to wrap his arms gently around Than’s back, wants to twine his fingers in his long hair. His fingers twitch, his lips tingling as if they’re already anticipating how it would feel to brush softly against Than’s.

Than shuffles a tiny bit closer, his amber eyes still fixed on Zag’s face. He looks ethereal in the moonlight, his platinum hair glowing with silvery lustre like a precious pearl. Zag’s heart beats faster and faster, Than’s slow steps bringing them closer to the inevitable moment where Zag must decide what to do.

Can he really bring himself to reject Than a second time? Knowing that rejecting Than means rejecting his own needs and desires, for reasons that seem so trivial out here beneath the grandeur of the moonlit cosmos?

No. He can’t. As soon as he asks himself the question, he knows the answer. There will be no second rejection. His heart twists in his chest and he feels somehow taller. Unstoppable. Unafraid. Zag strides towards Than, watching a disbelieving, hopeful smile spread over his face, watching his arms open wide to receive him.

One, two, three steps, and their bodies collide, Than’s arms wrapping tightly around Zag’s waist as Zag’s arms float up to clasp around Than’s neck.

One, two, three breaths, and their lips meet, eyes connected until the last possible moment. Zag’s eyelids flutter closed, his head tilting as his lips find Than’s, the sweetness dissolving into heat within moments.

Than moans, his lips parting beneath Zag’s. The kiss deepens, their mouths moving together with ragged desperation. Than pulls him closer still, his hard muscles crushing into Zag’s softer flesh, his thumbs stroking gently over his lower back. Zag lets his fingers slide into Than’s hair, playing in the velvet of his undercut before twisting into the longer strands.

Zag is almost dizzy when they break apart, panting and gasping for breath.

“Wow,” Than murmurs, dipping his head to brush another sweet, gentle kiss over Zag’s lips.

Zag can’t find the words to reply, sinking deeper into Than’s arms and kissing him back enthusiastically. He finds himself moaning into Than’s mouth, pressing his hips forward, trying to maximise the contact between their bodies.

A sudden splash in the waters behind them reminds Zag precisely where they are. Standing on the main deck, bathed in the light of the moon and the stars, for anyone to see. He tears his lips from Than’s, sliding one hand down to his chest and pushing lightly, breaking their embrace.

“Than, we can’t do this.”

Than’s arms tighten around him, his face falling. “As in… we shouldn’t be kissing?”

“No, I… I don’t want to stop kissing you.” Than dips his head, relief shining in his eyes, and Zag laughs softly, raising a finger to Than’s lips. “Anyone could see us. We can’t do this here.”

“Come to my room,” Than breathes, his lips barely moving against Zag’s finger.

“Someone might see,” Zag replies, the adrenaline and desire swirling in his blood mingling with a burst of fear.

“Okay.” Than nods. “How about… I go back to my room. And maybe I can’t sleep. You bring me some tea. I texted you to ask for tea, so there’s nothing suspicious about you bringing it to me.”

"Tea. I can do that," Zag smiles, stepping back out of Than's arms. "What kind would you like?"

"Whichever brews the fastest. See you soon," Than whispers, leaning in to kiss his temple before he slips away towards the stairs.

Zag drifts to the galley, a thousand butterflies beating their shimmering wings in his stomach. He prepares a pot of mountain tea, setting it on a tray with a mug and a tiny jar of honey. It's a conscious effort to keep his back straight and his steps confident on the way to Than's room; despite the convenient excuse in his hands, he feels like he's sneaking around.

He knocks quietly on Than's door, using his key to let himself in when Than calls softly for him to enter. He shuts the door behind him, double checking the lock before he walks through to Than's bedroom. The object of his affections sits on the bed, radiating a kind of nervous anticipation as he watches Zag place the tray on a side table.

"Your tea," Zag winks. He's in deep enough that he can't keep himself from flirting.

Than reaches out, taking Zag's hands in his. Zag expects him to pull him immediately close, but he doesn't, simply holding his hands gently and gazing up at him. "Thank you for the tea. I'm, um… I'm nervous."

"Why are you nervous?" Zag frowns.

"I've never… done this before." Than's hands are a little clammy, come to think of it.

"This as in, sneak someone back to your room with the intention of making out? Or this as in making out with a guy? Or did you have some other this in mind?" Zag raises an eyebrow.

Than's eyes slide away. "I don't know. The latter two, I guess?"

A flash of discomfort shoots through him. He wants Than, yes, but… is he really going to be the kind of man who falls in bed with a rock star after just a few kisses?

He takes a breath before he responds. "Look, Than, I generally don't fuck on the first date, unless I'm drunk enough that I lose all sense of reason. Tonight I'm neither drunk or on a date, so…"

Than's eyes widen. "I didn't mean… I don't expect anything from you, Zag. I want you, yeah, but I don't expect you to fall into bed with me tonight."

"Hmm. I kinda imagined that people fall into bed with you all the time." His imagination fills suddenly with images of crowds of screaming fans throwing panties at the stage, gossip site headlines about groupies and threesomes and orgies and...

"Less often than you might think," Than says quietly, squeezing Zag's hands. "Falling into bed with people who think they're having sex with your onstage persona is not all it's cracked up to be. It's rare I meet someone who sees me for who I am, even a little bit."

"Oh." Zag flushes, shame prickling at the back of his neck. "I'm sorry, I didn't mean to imply…"

Than chuckles humourlessly. "Are you sure we can't just go back outside? Things don't seem to be going so well down here."

Zag smiles apologetically. "Yeah. Let's just pretend we're James and Ben, we just met at a conference about accountancy for owners of small but successful beach bars. We had a couple drinks, we're gonna make out with no expectations and see what happens. Okay?"

"Okay, Ben." Than grins, tugging Zag's hands until he steps closer. "Sit next to me?"

"Sure, James." Zag lets go of Than's hands, dropping to sit beside him on the edge of the bed. "You know I'm here because I like you, right? Not because of your fame?"

"That's surprising, given how famous I am as an accountant," Than quips, turning to face Zag, taking one of his hands back and interlacing their fingers. "But seriously. Thanks. Means a lot."

"You're welcome," Zag murmurs, placing his free hand gently on Than's thigh. God, how can someone be this muscular? He suppresses a shiver.

Than slips his arm around his shoulders, leaning in to bring their lips together in a chaste kiss. "You're gorgeous."

"You're not so bad yourself." Zag tilts his head to capture Than’s lips with more heat, more passion. He traces the tip of his tongue over Than's top lip, licking into his mouth as soon as his lips part.

Than's arm tightens around his shoulders, pulling him as close as their position will allow. He kisses Zag confidently, a man used to taking the lead. Zag feels his cheeks start to flush with arousal, Than's tongue moving delicately and firmly against his own.

"Is this okay?" Than breathes, breaking the kiss to gaze into Zag's eyes. He looks a strange mix of aroused and frightened, his amber eyes infinitely warm and deep.

"Yeah, s'good. But…" Zag shifts, straddling Than's thighs, his knees sinking into the soft duvet either side of his hips. "Is this okay?"

"Yeah," Than moans, wrapping his arms around Zag's back and pulling him closer.

Their next kiss is hot, needy, hands tracing tentative lines over each other’s bodies. Zag pushes Than’s hair back behind his shoulder, kissing his way over his cheekbone and down his neck. Than slides his fingers into Zag’s hair, breathing growing heavier as Zag presses open mouthed kisses along his collarbone. His nails scratch gently over Zag’s scalp, drawing a deep moan from Zag’s throat as he continues to mouth at Than’s neck.

“You like that?” Than breathes, moving his nails through Zag’s hair again. Zag can’t bring himself to pull his mouth from Than’s skin to reply, choosing instead just to moan appreciatively as he kisses his way back up the corded muscles of Than’s neck. “I guess that’s a yes… I’m with you… I like having my hair pulled.”

Zag opens his eyes, kissing Than quickly on the lips before weaving a strand of hair through his fingers and tugging gently. Than’s eyes darken, his hands moving to Zag’s hips to pull him closer, thrusting his own hips up at the same time. Soft moans escape both of their lips, blood rushing to Zag’s cock at the deadly combination of friction and Than’s obvious enjoyment.

“You feel so good…” Zag murmurs, his lips pressed against Than’s.

Than simply grunts, slipping his tongue into Zag’s mouth and rolling his hips up against him again. Zag shivers, lips and hips moving without thought or reason, lost in the decadence of kissing Than as he deserves to be kissed.

Zag is just wondering whether it’d be okay to slide his hand between them to palm Than’s cock when his thigh vibrates. He tears his lips from Than’s, letting go of the platinum strands still laced in his fingers to grab his phone from his pocket.

Received 01:29
Zag - woke up and you’re not here. Everything okay? Are you sick?

“What’s up?” Than asks, winding his arms around Zag and holding him with a stabilising tenderness that contrasts completely with his previous horny grip.

“Daniel,” Zag utters his name as if it’s a curse. “He woke up and noticed I’m not there.”

“Fuck. Do you need to go?”

“Yeah, he’ll come looking for me soon if I don’t reply.” Zag gazes up at Than, surging forward to kiss him one last time. “Where do we go from here?”

Than strokes his palms gently down Zag’s back. “I’d like to do this again. And… more, if you’re interested.”

“You can tell I’m interested, can’t you?” Zag smirks, pushing his hips forward so his very obvious interest rubs against Than’s belly. “Let’s talk tomorrow. We’ll have to be careful.”

“Sounds good to me,” Than murmurs, pulling Zag back in for another kiss before releasing him.

Zag scrambles to his feet, raking his hands through his hair and straightening his clothes. Than’s gaze keeps dipping to the tented fabric at his groin, lingering for a moment before he wrestles his eyes back to his face. Zag smirks, shuffling towards the door and blowing Than a kiss as he walks back through the darkened hallway.

The main deck is deserted when he makes it up the stairs. He texts Daniel back, hoping he doesn’t come looking for him before he can calm down.

Sent 01:33
I’m okay - woke up feeling sick, getting some fresh air on deck. Back soon.

He creeps over to the railing, breathing the salty air into his lungs, his lips tingling with the ghostly imprints of Than’s kisses. He has no idea how he’ll avoid blushing when he sees Than tomorrow, but that’s a problem for Future Zag. Tonight he takes deep, gulping breaths of sea air, thinking about how perfect Than’s lips felt on his own.

Chapter Text

Than wakes up early, bounding out of bed and throwing the drapes open to let the bright morning light pour in through the windows. He stretches his arms above his head, working the sleep out of his muscles, smiling at his ghostly reflection in the window. He wants to sing. He wants to write. A new melody swirls around his mind, hopeful and pure.

Zagreus kissed him last night. Kissed him under the moonlit, starry sky, and then found a way to sneak into his room to kiss him some more. Than’s grin widens. He traces his fingertips softly over his lips, remembering how Zag’s lips felt against his. Soft, firm, perfect.

He had always imagined that it would feel different, kissing a man. Now he realises that a kiss is a kiss is a kiss, and the only real difference comes from how you feel about the person you’re kissing. He likes Zag, really likes him, his personality as well as his face, his body.

Than realises he had almost forgotten what that kind of connection feels like.

He beams at himself in the bathroom mirror, his teeth coated in frothy toothpaste. He spits and rinses, his smile momentarily dimming as he does before it flickers back onto his face, irrepressible. Zag felt so good in his arms. His stubble had felt scratchily amazing against Than’s chin.Thatwas different. He finds himself wondering what Zag would look like with a full beard, what it would feel like to kiss him and feel his facial hair tickling his own clean shaven face.

Than sits down on the bed, arranging his legs as he had last night, when Zag straddled him. That was different, too. Firm pectorals against his chest instead of breasts. Zag’s erection pressing against his stomach. Than shivers as he remembers, only wishing that they hadn’t been interrupted. He wonders how far they would have gone if they had been left alone. When Zag had left, he couldn’t help himself, shoving his pyjama bottoms down his thighs and stroking himself, thinking about how Zag felt in his lap, imagining what it would feel like if he touched him. He had come embarrassingly fast.

He chuckles to himself, feeling like a teenager again. It’s been so long since he felt this kind of fizzy, thrilling attraction. His career took off like a rocket, way faster than he ever expected, and over the years Than has become too wary to allow himself to like someone this much. But Zag… he’s different. He feels trustworthy. He feels like someone who might just…

Than shakes his head, irrepressible grin still plastered over his face. He knows he’s getting ahead of himself, but he just can’t get enough.

The phone Zag gave him chimes. He dives across the bed, reaching for it eagerly.

Received 10:32
Kalimera, Thanatos. I hope you slept well. Your companions chose to eat an early breakfast on deck. Would you like me to bring breakfast to your room?

Than giggles, thrilled that Zagreus is thinking about him, and impressed that he’s wily enough to text him in such a professional tone. He taps out a reply, stumbling over the words in his haste.

Sent 10:32
Thanks, Zag. Pastries and some fruit would be great.

He stares at the phone, waiting for Zag’s reply. It arrives less than a minute later.

Received: 10:33
No problem. I’ll bring your breakfast to you shortly. Perhaps we can discuss what you’d like to do today while you eat.

Than gathers the tissues from the nightstand and hurries into the bathroom, dropping them into the toilet and flushing them away. He picks up his hairbrush, smoothing his hair neatly, and checks his teeth. He returns to the bedroom, pacing beside the door as he waits for Zagreus to come to him.

He almost jumps out of his skin when a soft knock sounds on the outer door of his suite. “Come through, please.”

Zag’s key turns in the lock with a solid thunk. Than wrenches open the inner door, watching Zag walk towards him, a tray carefully held in his hands and a dazzling smile growing on his lips. “Good morning, Than. How are you today?”

Than stands back, letting him place the tray carefully on a side table before he pounces, spinning him around and drawing him into a tight embrace in one smooth movement. Zag giggles, his face already tipping up as Than slides his fingers into his dark hair and kisses him. Zag makes a sound that’s very nearly a growl, winding a strand of Than’s hair around his fingers and tugging firmly.

Than lays him gently on his back on the hastily straightened duvet, stretching out beside him and placing his hand carefully on Zag’s waist. “Is this okay?”

“Yeah,” Zag mutters, raising his hand to trail his fingers over Than’s jaw, his eyes warm and inviting. “But you didn’t answer my question.”

“What was your question again?” Than squeezes Zag’s waist, propping himself up on one elbow and leaning down to kiss him, careful not to crowd him too quickly.

“How are you today, Than?” Zag smiles, nipping Than’s bottom lip gently.

“Oh. I’m great, Zag. I’m… great.” Than leans over, letting his upper body press lightly against Zag’s, shivering as Zag snakes his arms around him and strokes his back. “And… and you? How are you?”

"Oh, I'm wonderful," Zag murmurs, his eyes closing as he stretches up for a kiss. He groans quietly as Than's tongue touches his, breaking the kiss and pushing at his chest half heartedly. "Your breakfast."

"Fuck breakfast." Than grins, sliding his hand to Zag's hip.

Zag laughs, his lips curving against Than's. "You need the energy."

"Do I?" Than teases. "For what?"

"Hiking. Swimming. Whatever you want to do today." Zag's fingers travel over the swell of Than's pectoral muscle, stopping just short of his nipple. "This okay?"

"Yeah. Keep touching me." Than inhales sharply as Zag brushes a fingertip gently over his nipple. Even through the thin fabric of his tank top, the sensation shoots straight to his cock. "Can I stay in bed all day? With you?"

"You can do whatever you want. Think your brother might be suspicious if both of us disappear for the day, though." Zag gazes up at Than, his eyes bright.

Than doesn't bother replying, rolling on top of Zag and kissing him hard. "Is this alright?"

Zag's hands grasp his hips, holding him still as he grinds up against him. "Yeah. Fuck, what are you doing to me? I feel like a horny teenager. Shift a little this way." He pushes gently against Than's hip bones.

Than follows his lead, moaning as their hardening cocks rub together through their clothes. He presses down harder, thrusting his hips at the same time as Zag does, tendrils of heat winding through his groin. “Oh, Zag…”

Zag throws his head back, eyes sliding shut, his neck arched and exposed. Than can’t help but trail wet kisses over his throat and up to his jaw, his soft groans vibrating Than’s damp lips and leaving them tingling. Zag’s fingers curl under his jaw, bringing their lips together in a deep, thrilling kiss, their tongues pressing and curling together with the same rhythm as their hips.

Than’s heart is pounding in his chest when Zag’s fingers slip underneath the hem of his tank. His eyes blink open, his fingers pausing as he looks into Than’s eyes, asking for permission without words. Than nods shakily, sitting up just enough for Zag to pull the thin fabric over his head. He watches his mismatched eyes rove hungrily over the exposed skin, evidently liking what he sees, the tip of his tongue darting out to wet his upper lip. Than sits up, his trembling fingers reaching for the buttons of Zag’s burgundy polo shirt. Moments later, it joins Than’s tank on the floor.

“You have a farmer’s tan,” Than murmurs, tracing his fingers over the line where golden skin transitions to bronze.

“Sailor’s tan, yeah. I used to try to sunbathe to even it up, but it never quite worked. Looks silly, I know.” Zag breathes, reaching out to trace Than’s abs in a featherlight caress that sends shivers coursing over his skin.

“You’re stunning. Your skin is perfect.” Than bends down, pressing kisses on golden and bronze skin alike. “I want to kiss you everywhere.”

“And I, you,” Zag replies, reaching up to curve his palm around the nape of Than’s neck.

A muffled knock shatters the heavy, dreamlike quiet. They both freeze, breathing turning shallow and silent as they wait.

“Than?” Hypnos’ voice sounds from the outer door.

“Fuck,” Than whispers. Zag slaps his hand over his own mouth, suppressing a nervous giggle. “What do we do?”

“Try to get rid of him so I can sneak out?” Zag whispers back.

“Than, I know you’re in there. Can we talk?” Hypnos calls.

“I know that tone, he’s not gonna give up. You might have to hide in the bathroom,” Than murmurs, peeling his body away from Zag’s and jumping off the bed, adrenaline spiking in his blood. He raises his voice to call to Hypnos, trying to buy them precious minutes. “Yeah, Hyp, give me a minute.”

He reaches a hand out to Zag, marvelling at the warmth of his skin when he takes it. He pulls him up from the bed, hauling his body close and pecking his lips quickly. Zag grins, grabbing his polo shirt from the floor and pulling it over his head. “You better start thinking about something very unsexy very fast, Than.”

Than presses his lips together, suppressing the giggle that threatens to bubble up his throat. “You better get into the bathroom quickly, because this isn’t going anywhere as long as you’re nearby.”

"Thanatos!' Zag gasps, exaggerating his expression mischievously before his eyes soften. “Good luck. I’ll do my best not to listen, okay?” He doesn’t wait for an answer, slipping out of the bedroom door and into the bathroom, taking care to move silently as he shuts the door behind him.

Than takes a few deep breaths as he tugs his tank back on, adjusting himself in his pyjama pants. He grabs the waffle robe from where he left it on the armchair, shrugging it on and tying it loosely around his waist. A quick glance in the mirror tells him that his softening erection is hidden well enough. He moves the breakfast tray to the bed, arranging the covers so it looks like he was eating in bed, taking a hasty bite from the chocolate croissant to complete the scene.

Hypnos looks almost contrite when he finally opens the door. “Hey. Can I come in?”

“Sure.” Than steps back, ushering his brother towards the bedroom, making sure he blocks the bathroom door as Hypnos steps through. “I was just eating breakfast.”

“Oh. Zagreus bring it for you?” Than nods, and Hypnos frowns slightly. “Weird, I didn’t see him come past on my way down.”

Than shrugs, hastily changing the subject. “You wanted to talk?” He sits down on the bed, dragging the breakfast tray into his lap, grateful for the cover it provides. The prospect of talking to his brother might be a turnoff, but the thrill of Zag’s hands on his body hasn’t faded entirely yet.

Hypnos sits gingerly on the armchair in the corner. “Yeah. Look, I hate it when we fight.”

“Me too,” Than murmurs, spearing a chunk of pale green melon and lifting it to his lips.

“I know you’re lonely, Than. I’m happy you get on with Zagreus, having someone other than us to talk to must be nice. God knows I’m glad you’re not spending all your time brooding on your own. I just… I don’t want you to get hurt.” Hypnos looks down into his lap, his fingers plucking nervously at the hem of the white shirt that hangs open over his pink tank top.

“I know, Hyp. I appreciate you looking out for me, I really do,” Than murmurs, moving the tray to the bed beside him and leaning forward. “It’s been ten years, you know. Ten years of being careful about everything I do, wear, say, eat… Ten years of being careful about who I spend time with, not making any real friends. I just want something for myself.”

“International fame and making a very good living out of your music is for you, isn’t it?” Hypnos asks cautiously.

“Don’t get me wrong, it is. I still can’t believe we did well enough that we can afford to rent private yachts, you know?”

“Yeah, the past ten years have been surreal,” Hypnos smiles. “I get it, I think. The music might be for you, but the label owns you. So it’s still not entirely yours. This lifestyle, recording and performing… the label drops you and it only lasts so long before it’s gone.”

“Yeah.” Than’s stomach sours, the melon sitting heavy in his gut. “Honestly, Hyp, I don’t know who I am outside of the music any more. We don’t do anything. I don’t have hobbies, I don’t have friends. Can’t just go to a gallery or a gig or the theatre without worrying about the press. Zagreus makes me feel like a normal person. I trust him.”

“I just hope your trust isn’t misplaced, Than. I’m sorry for snapping at you. You know the risks, it’s your call on what you do with them.”

“Thanks. I’m sorry for storming off like that. And for being so childish the next morning.”

“It’s okay, I understand. Love you, Than.” Hypnos springs upright, arms held out.

“Love you too, Hyp.” Than gets to his feet and hugs his brother, ruffling his short curly hair affectionately.

“I’ll leave you to finish your breakfast. Unless… is there anything else you want to talk about?” Hypnos steps back, squinting at Than, a carefully neutral look on his face. “You know you can talk to me about anything, right?”

“Yeah, I’m good,” Than replies, his mind already drifting back to Zag, hidden in the bathroom. “Want to go somewhere today, just us?”

“Sure,” Hypnos frowns. “Meet you on the main deck in half an hour? Maybe Zagreus can recommend somewhere, if I can find him.”

“Sounds good.” Than struggles to keep his face neutral. “See you in a bit.”

He follows Hypnos down the hallway towards the door, waving him off and shutting the door firmly behind him. As soon as the lock clicks back into place, Than’s shoulders relax, the weight of their argument and the stress of hiding Zag dissipating. The bathroom door opens behind him, soft footsteps padding quietly closer. Strong arms wrap around his waist from behind, encouraging him to lean back as Zag presses a comforting kiss onto the nape of his neck.

“You okay?” Zag whispers, his breath tickling the back of Than’s neck.

“Yeah.” Than turns around, pulling Zag into his chest and hugging him close. “We made up.”

“I heard, I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to intrude, I just couldn’t tune your voice out.”

“It’s alright. Any suggestions for a nice place for brotherly bonding today?” Than tucks a dark wavy strand behind Zag’s ear.

“Maybe Alyko Beach? It’s beautiful, not a lot of tourists, and there’s a gorgeous cedar forest growing amongst the sand dunes above it. Perfect for a leisurely walk and a bit of quiet time. Swimming’s good too. I can pack you some drinks, snacks and towels if you like.”

“Perfect. I wish you could come too,” Than smiles down at him, dipping to press a chaste kiss to his slightly pinkened lips. “Might need some tea again tonight.”

Zag chuckles. “Honestly, Than, if we get interrupted once more I’m going to explode.”

“You could always… take care of things, while we’re out?” Than smirks, the accompanying mental image sending shivers of desire down his spine.

“I get no privacy here, Than, so that’s completely off the table, unfortunately,” Zag winks. “I had an idea, though.”

“Oh yeah?” Than pulls him closer, resisting the temptation to grope his ass.

“Yeah. How about we sail to Mykonos tomorrow? There's a great spa retreat which focuses on individual relaxation journeys… we could sneak out. I have a friend who owns an apartment there, it might be free. We could get a few uninterrupted hours together.”

“Sounds amazing. Tomorrow?” Than can’t bring himself to care about playing it cool. The idea of a few hours alone with Zag, no chance of interruptions…

“I’ll look into it while you’re at the beach with Hypnos. As soon as possible, I promise.” Zag’s eyes sparkle as he stretches up for a quick kiss. “I better go. Enjoy the beach.”

An hour later, Than sits next to his brother on the tender, skipping through the waves to Alyko Beach. It’s as beautiful as Zag said it would be, golden sand leading to undulating dunes leading to a sprawling forest of tall cedar trees. The turquoise water is crystal clear, lapping gently against the perfectly crescent shaped shore.

Than carries Zag’s insulated backpack, enjoying the feeling of the soft sand between his toes. Hypnos seems relaxed, walking lightly by his side, content to chat about everything other than work. They meander through the cool shade cast by the cedar trees and various tall shrubs and bushes, gossiping about Charon’s on again, off again relationship with his track athlete boyfriend. Than even teases Hypnos a little about his relationship with Meg, rolling his eyes when Hypnos insists there’s nothing to talk about.

Eventually they lay out their beach towels beneath a tree near the shore, tugging boxes and bottles from the backpack for a late lunch. Than opens the containers of cheese, fruit and bread while Hypnos investigates a pair of stoppered glass bottles, filled to the brim with a pale pink liquid. “Any ideas?”

Hypnos flips the stopper open, sniffing curiously at the contents. “Smells like lemonade.” He takes a cautious swig. “Mmm, yeah. Lemonade, but with something else added?”

Than opens the other bottle, taking a sip. “Pomegranate, I think. Delicious.”

They nibble and sip in contented silence for a while, enjoying the comforting combination of the gentle breeze, bright sunshine, and warm sand.

“I could get used to this.” Hypnos sighs. “Living in Greece must be amazing. All this beauty spread out before you, great food and great drinks.”

“I’m sure there are downsides, too,” Than murmurs, ever pragmatic.

“Of course, nothing’s perfect. Still. We should enjoy it while we’re here, before we have to get back to reality.” Hypnos glances at him. “Like, if you want to go hiking. With Zagreus. You should do that.”

Than nods, not quite sure what his brother is implying. “Yeah. I could do with a massage, actually. I talked to Zagreus before we left, he told me there are some good spas on Mykonos. I said we should head there next.”

“Good plan, I wouldn’t say no to a massage.” Hypnos stretches his back, settling back into the sand. “Hey, did you see there’s a projector on the yacht? Daniel was telling me there’s a screen that pulls down on the main deck, the couches can be arranged for an outdoor movie night. I was thinking about doing that tonight. You could join, if you don’t have other plans, that is.”

“Movie night sounds great. Let’s see what they have when we get back.” Than glances surreptitiously at the yacht phone, wondering if Zag has texted him, slightly disappointed to find no notifications on the lock screen.

Hypnos sighs. “Cool. Wanna swim before we head back?”

“Sure. Last one in the water’s a loser.” Than strips off his t-shirt in record time, dropping it on top of the backpack before sprinting down to the shore, Hypnos hot on his heels.

Chapter Text

"Just a little bit to the left," Daniel says, watching as Zag and Anna move the couch carefully into position. "Perfect, I’ll go get the blankets."

"Thanks, Daniel," Zag smiles, brushing a loose thread from his formal black waistcoat. "Anna, will you bring our guests through while I rustle up some snacks?"

"Sure." Anna crosses the deck to the dining area, where their guests are finishing their meal with tumblers of scotch. She gestures to the newly positioned couches, set in front of the projector screen, a warm smile on her face. The group push their chairs back, eager to lounge comfortably in the warm evening air.

Than hangs back a little as Zag walks casually through the dining area, a professional smile on his lips. As he passes, Than murmurs you look incredible in that uniform before following the others to take a seat.

When Zag returns with a tray of snacks, Than's amber eyes follow him across the deck. He can't help but remember their first kiss, just last night, only a few paces from where Than sprawls on the squashy cushions. For a moment, he pictures himself cuddling cosily next to Than, a soft blanket draped over them. He imagines the feeling of Than’s body against his as they relax together, half watching a movie, half basking in the comfort of each other’s embrace. His mind takes the image too far, transplanting them from the deck of the Agape Mou to an apartment, a home they built together. The picture is so vividly domestic that he finds himself wondering if familiarity dulls the extraordinary thrill of holding and being held. He shakes off the mental image, anchoring himself back on the polished wooden deck and reminding himself that the thing growing between them can only ever be a fling. Sex, yes; a little comfort, maybe. Domesticity and true partnership; absolutely not. Their lives are so different, a fling is the best he can hope for.

"Popcorn, Chef's praline truffles and some grapes." Zag places the dishes and bowls on the low coffee table, in easy reach of his guests, his voice surprisingly steady despite his whirring thoughts. "Did you decide what you'd like to watch?"

He tries to avoid looking at Than, conscious of the flush that blooms on his cheeks every time their eyes meet. Charon shrugs, and Hypnos stares at him impassively, brows knitted together. Zag swallows, shifting his gaze quickly over to Megaera. She names a recent Hollywood blockbuster, the latest in a long line of forgettable superhero action films, giving Zag an excuse to slink out of the spotlight. Daniel starts the projector, selecting the film from their vast digital library and waiting until it's begun before discreetly taking his leave, Zag and Anna following.

They slip downstairs to the salon area, splitting up to handle the turndown service. Daniel gathers the used towels, bundling them into a basket to launder overnight and replacing them with fluffy fresh ones. Anna handles the actual turndown, folding the corner of each duvet towards the centre of the bed, making sure the sheets look cosy and inviting for when their guests retire.

Zag dawdles, taking his time refilling the bottles of chilled water and checking the levels in the chrome dispensers in the showers. In Than's room, he scribbles a quick note, leaving it folded in the centre of Than's bed.

Feel free to message if you need anything, whatever the hour. If you can't sleep again tonight, I'll be happy to make you some mountain tea - Z

He hopes Than reads between the lines. The snatched moments of passion might be short, but Zag will happily take a few more days of blue balls and frustration over waiting until they sneak away to kiss Than again. His friend's apartment will be free the day after tomorrow, coincidentally the same day that the best of Mykonos’ spas can accommodate a set of VIP guests. Zag can hardly wait.

He meets Daniel and Anna back in the crew quarters, smiling at the sight of the bosun, fast asleep in the corner in front of the TV.

“Daniel, Anna, you can get changed if you want to, I’ll check on the guests later,” Zag says quietly. “You want a drink? I’m going to make some coffee.”

Daniel nods enthusiastically at the same time as Anna shakes her head. “You go change first, Anna.” He follows Zag into the galley as Anna heads towards her bunk. “Weird with only four guests, right?”

“Yeah. To be honest I’m glad it’s an easy charter, with the new role and all,” Zag murmurs, slotting a pod into the Nespresso machine. “It’s good not to be rushed off our feet.”

“Thanatos is certainly keeping you busy.” Daniel watches the machine whirr into action, a thin stream of fragrant coffee falling into the cup below.

“Um, yeah, I guess.” Zag turns away, rummaging in the fridge for the milk.

“He looks at you like he’s starving and you’re a banquet,” Daniel observes.

Zag pours a dash of milk into the coffee, handing it to Daniel with a shrug before inserting a fresh pod.

“Seriously. Something’s going on between you two. Anna and I were comparing notes and there’s definitely chemistry. Spill.” Daniel raises a well groomed eyebrow.

Anna glides into the room on silent feet, standing next to Daniel and grinning with delight. “Yeah, it’s obvious you like each other. So?”

Zag focuses on the coffee machine, adding another pod even though he really doesn’t need a double shot drink at this time of the night. “There’s nothing to tell.”

“Bullshit,” Anna coughs. “Come on. You can trust us.”

“Guys, I really don’t want to talk about it,” Zag says carefully, switching the coffee machine off and grabbing his cup.

“Ah, so there’s an it to talk about then?” Daniel grins. “We’ve all been tempted before. Some of us were lucky enough that the temptation was mutual, and it all worked out fine. Casual fling, make the guest happy, walk away at the end of the charter.”

“You sound like you’ve been there before, Daniel.” Zag takes a sip of his coffee.

“Yeah. On one of the other yachts, one of the clients liked me almost as much as Thanatos seems to like you. I snuck into her room a few times, we scratched the itch, it was fine. Poseidon was Captain, he knew about it.”

“He did?” Zag raises an eyebrow.

“Yeah. He said as long as I was professional and we were discreet it was fine. No shirking my duties or hanging out with her on deck. I mean, what’s the alternative? Can’t have the guests pining away unfulfilled, can we?” Daniel smirks.

“What Daniel’s saying is that if you like Thanatos, and Thanatos likes you, and you want to, I dunno, disappear into his room late at night and sneak back just in time to get dressed for the early shift, no-one’s going to tell on you,” Anna winks. “You work really hard. You deserve a little fun.”

“I’ll take that under consideration, thanks,” Zag murmurs, cheeks flushed. He knocks back the rest of his coffee. “I’ll head upstairs, see if they need anything.”

“Have fun, don’t hurry back!” Daniel trills before dissolving into giggles with Anna.

Zag climbs the stairs slowly, wondering whether he really could spend the night with Than if he wanted to. He doesn’t doubt that Daniel and Anna would cover for him, but he’s a little suspicious of whether Captain Poseidon would be as understanding as Daniel made out. Of course, even if the crew and Captain didn’t object, Than’s family might. And Than himself might well be uncomfortable with spending time with Zag knowing that the crew have guessed at what’s going on between them.

He busies himself with tidying up the bar and dining area, keeping half an eye on his guests and the relative fullness of their glasses. When he walks silently over to the couches to pour more scotch, Than stops watching the movie and watches him instead. It’s hard to read his expression with the light bouncing from the projector onto his face, painting his brown skin in reds, yellows and oranges as the superheroes on screen narrowly escape yet another epic explosion.

Eventually the movie ends and the group heave themselves out of the soft embrace of the couches, clattering down the stairs to the salon area and their respective bedrooms. Than looks back over his shoulder at Zag as he walks away. Zag turns off the projector and presses the button to retract the screen, his hand drifting to the phone at his hip, wondering if Than will ask for tea once he sees the note on his bed. He shakes himself, folding the blankets and gathering the empty glasses and bowls ready for the dishwasher. The couches can be rearranged in the morning.

The dishwasher is nearly stacked when his phone chimes. He gives it the most cursory glance, noting the sender on the lock screen before gathering the ingredients for the mountain tea. Feeling adventurous, he pops an extra mug onto the tray for himself.

Than’s face lights up when he walks into the VIP stateroom, crossing the room to place the tray carefully on a side table. Deja vu strikes him as Than pulls him into his arms the second his hands are free, spinning him around and crushing him against his deliciously muscular chest. “Hi.”

“Hi, yourself. Happy to see me?” Zag smiles up at him, his stomach hollowing at how beautiful he looks in the low evening light.

“You know it,” Than murmurs, pressing a restrained kiss against his lips. “How was your day? Thanks for looking after us tonight.”

“My day was very productive,” Zag replies, his stomach dancing with butterflies at the genuine interest in Than’s eyes. “Logged some receipts, planned a spa day. Asked my friend if his apartment is free in the next few days.”

“And is it?” Than’s eyebrows quirk upwards.

“Yep. Day after tomorrow. And the spa I had in mind has space for three VIP guests. So if you’re still up for it… we can escape to my friend’s apartment for three, maybe four hours.” The butterflies in Zag’s stomach gravitate lower as he imagines everything they can do with three hours to themselves.

“Definitely,” Than replies, his amber eyes turning dark and burnished at the idea.

“Great. Hey, there’s something I need to talk to you about.”

“Okay. Why don’t you sit?” Than gestures to the bed, moving over to the side table and pouring mountain tea for both of them. “You want honey?”

“Nah, I’m good, thanks.” Zag perches on the edge of the gigantic bed, accepting a mug from Than and enjoying the warmth as it soaks into his palms. “The other stewards have noticed how you look at me.”

Than’s movements slow, his hands shaking the tiniest bit as he stirs honey into his tea. “Fuck. One of them said something?”

“They ganged up on me, actually,” Zag says quietly. “One of them told me about a time he had a fling with a guest. They both encouraged me to spend time with you if I wanted to. They, um, said they’d cover for me if I wanted to sneak into your room for the night, so long as I was back for the morning shift.”

Than sits down heavily beside him. “I’m not sure how to feel about that. On one hand, the idea of having a whole night with you… yeah. I’d love that. But on the other… the risk. I thought we were being subtle.”

“The interior crew are always bloodhounds for gossip, honestly. The slightest dynamic between the guests, or the crew and the guests, and the interior crew are the first to spot it. They won’t say anything. Yacht crew all really love their jobs, and even if getting fired wasn’t a deterrent, we all sign NDAs. Anything leaks and the company pursues a civil suit.”

“Seriously? They threaten to sue their own employees?” Than’s eyes are wide.

“Yeah. Discretion is hugely important in this business. Would you have come aboard if discretion wasn’t guaranteed?” Zag swallows a soothing sip of tea, warmth spreading through his chest.

“Good point. Anyway, would you want to spend the night with me?” Than asks, turning his body to face Zag’s on the edge of the bed.

“What kind of question is that? Obviously the answer is yes.” Zag rolls his eyes.

“I dunno about obviously. This body might look great, but it’s not super comfortable when it comes to cuddling, I’m told.” Than’s voice is light, but there’s something else hidden behind his words.

Zag stands, taking Than’s half full mug gently from his hands and placing both mugs on the tray. He steps between Than’s legs, cupping his face in his hands and kissing him gently. “Than, your body is gorgeous, for admiring and sex and cuddling and whatever else. More importantly, you’re gorgeous. Talented, brave, sweet and considerate…” Zag kisses him again. “I like you. I like doing things with you. I’d enjoy sleeping next to you, I know it.”

“Thanks,” Than murmurs, standing up and crowding in close. “You know, even if the stewards cover for you, there’s still my brothers. Meg, too. They wouldn’t leak, obviously, but they would disapprove. Or tease the living hell out of us, at the very least.”

“Yeah. I guess we’re not spending the night together any time soon, then.”

“So we limit our time together until we make it to your friend's apartment. But… since you’re here…” Than strokes his hands slowly over Zag’s shoulders and down his back. “You said you’d explode if we were interrupted again. Can I… take care of you?” His hands move around Zag’s waist. “Have I mentioned how hot you look in this uniform, by the way?”

“Um, yeah. Glad you like it,” Zag replies, flustered by his touch, heat flooding his body.

"The waistcoat really emphasises your shoulders. Your waist. And these pants drape so well over your ass…" Than's palms travel from Zag's waist to his hips and back again, his movements hypnotically smooth and even. Zag gazes up at him, entranced by the dazed lust painted over his face. He places his hand gently on Than's chest, feeling his heart speeding through his thin t-shirt. Than inhales, his eyes snapping back to focus on Zag's face, chuckling lightly as he realises how lost he became in the moment. "You're spellbinding. Let me take care of you."

Zag groans, running his fingers down Than's chest to his hips. “How about we take care of each other?”

“I can wait. I, um… have more privacy to take care of myself,” Than leans in to whisper into his ear before biting gently at his earlobe.

“Shit, really?” Zag squeaks. “You…. really?”

“Uh huh.” Than nibbles at his earlobe again, his fingers working the golden buttons of his waistcoat open at the same time. He walks his fingertips up the placket of Zag’s shirt, unbuttoning it slowly to expose his chest. “Last night. Couldn’t help myself. Couldn't stop thinking about how your body felt against mine."

“Fuck, that’s hot,” Zag groans as Than’s fingers unbuckle his belt, drifting downwards to pop the button on his black pants and ease the zipper slowly down. His fingers caress Zag’s belly, trailing gently over his underwear, moving slowly downwards. He’s hard already, thinking about Than touching himself after the kisses they exchanged the night before. “Please, let me…”

“My turn tomorrow morning. Your turn now,” Than rasps in his ear, his voice hoarse with arousal. “Zag, how do I… I want to make you feel good. Tell me how to touch you.”

“I forget you’ve never done this… just touch me how you’d touch yourself. I’ll tell you if I want anything different, okay?” Zag pries his eyes open, momentarily stunned by the mingling desire and nervousness in Than’s amber irises.

“Okay,” Than breathes, just before Zag silences him with a kiss.

Zag lets his lips part, looping his arms around Than’s neck. Than's fingers slip through the opening in his underwear, pausing momentarily before brushing lightly over his cock. He gasps against his lips, reaching out with his tongue to taste the honey sweetness of Than’s mouth, legs almost buckling as his fingers close around his throbbing length and start to move slowly up and down. Than supports him, his arm wrapping around Zag’s waist, his free hand steadying his hip.

“I got you,” Than whispers, guiding him back towards the bed. He sits with his legs spread, pulling Zag to sit between his powerful thighs, his hand caressing his cock with smooth, firm strokes.

“Than,” Zag moans, his eyes flickering open to meet his gaze as he settles into Than’s embrace. Tension coils, sharp and intense, Than's strong hand moving slowly up and down his cock, occasionally pausing to rub his thumb over the tip. “Than, fuck…”

“Feel good?” Than whispers, barely moving his lips from Zag’s. “You look so incredible. I love touching you like this.”

“Feels great,” Zag bites out the words, pleasure taking over all rational thought as he starts thrusting into Than’s hand. "Harder, Than, you can stroke me harder."

"Like this?" Than's hand grips him more firmly, speeding his strokes.

"Yeah." Zag glances down, watching the muscles of Than's forearm ripple and tense, his fist squeezing Zag's cock, precome glistening where it's smeared on his fingers. He reaches up, curving his hand over the back of Than’s neck, pulling his head closer. “Oh god, I’m gonna… please, don’t stop. Don’t stop.”

Zag pushes his tongue roughly into Than’s mouth, kissing him desperately as he climbs towards orgasm. Than’s fingers are a curious mix of smooth and rough, he thinks blearily, focusing on the texture of them against his rock hard cock. Guitarist’s calluses? Fuck. Zag’s thoughts blur, pleasure overtaking him as he cries out into Than’s mouth, spilling sharply over his hand. He feels Than drag in a harsh breath, kissing him harder as he rides out his peak.

Than supports his trembling body, laying him on the bed and kissing his forehead before darting out of the room. Zag pushes his hand through his hair, his chest heaving, as Than returns with a washcloth, cleaning his hand and Zag’s softening cock with gentle tenderness.

“Fuck, Than,” Zag whispers, struggling upright and pulling Than’s face down towards him, kissing him gratefully, scrabbling for the drawstring at Than’s waist. “Let me…”

“It's okay, Zag.” Than’s lips curve against his. “Making you feel good is enough. Listening to you come, best thing I've heard in ages."

“But you…”

“I can wait til tomorrow morning. Promise.” Than zips up Zag’s pants gently, buckling his belt with a light touch.

They kiss, holding each other close, for another five minutes or so, Zag’s legs slowly steadying even as his heart pounds in his chest.

“Tomorrow,” Zag whispers, a wish and a promise, crushing his body against Than’s, unwilling to let go.

“Tomorrow,” Than whispers back, his smile evident in his voice.

When Zag climbs into his bunk, Daniel is still awake, reading on his tablet in the dim cabin. “Night, Zag,” he whispers, his voice slightly disappointed, as if Zag has been diligently working all this time, no time for play.

“Night, Daniel. Thanks for your hard work today,” Zag whispers back, a secret smile playing on his lips in the dark.

Chapter Text

Than is happily dreaming of a naked Zagreus writhing in his lap when an incessant banging permeates his sleep, dragging him kicking and screaming back to consciousness. He jumps out of bed, pulling a robe on as he scrambles out of the bedroom, and within a minute is wrenching the outer door of his cabin open grumpily.

"Get dressed and meet us upstairs in five." Hypnos' face is stony and irritated, meaning either someone has disturbed his own rest, or that something's gone horribly wrong.

"Okay, okay," Than mutters, already closing the door and rushing back into the bedroom.

He dresses quickly in sweatpants and a tank top, bounding up the stairs two at a time. Three heads swivel towards him when he approaches the dining table, their expressions equally grim.

"What happened?" He pulls out a chair and throws himself into it, preparing for the worst. Maybe someone managed to get a photo of Zag kissing him on deck with a telephoto lens. Or a tourist snapped them on the mountaintop. Either way, if there's a photo of him and Zag in the gossip rags, his career is likely over.

The cold fear of losing the career he's loved for the past ten years is muffled and softened with a nauseous sense of relief. He shoves the confusing blend of emotions to the side, resolving to work through them later.

Meg turns her ever present iPad towards him, one of the biggest gossip sites splashed pinkly on the screen. There's a photo of him and Zag, alright, but not the kind he feared. The photo is slightly blurry, the kind taken on a cellphone, the trailing green plants and red flowers of Naxos Town smudgy against the whitewashed walls. Than stands next to Zag, thankfully not looking at him at all, with Hypnos, Megaera and Charon gathered around. They're eating the spanakopita they bought for lunch, Than's slice already devoured from the scrunched up paper bag in his hand.

"They know you're here," Meg says. "One of the tourists near the castle must have taken the photo. Good thing Hyp decided to take you back to the boat, or there'd be more."

Zag walks into the dining area, a tray balanced on one hand, his sunny smile faltering for just a moment when he sees Than sitting with the others.

"Thanks, Zagreus. Than, you want coffee too?" Hypnos says, his voice already weary despite the early hour.

"Yeah, please." Than catches Zag's eye, smiling apologetically as he places cups in front of the others.

"I'll be right back with your coffee, sir," Zag murmurs, making a hasty exit.

Than watches him leave, the sudden return to formality heavy on his chest even though he understands the reasons for it.

“So, it’s likely the local press will be trying to figure out where you are, Than, and who you’re with. I bet some of the hungrier international photographers are flying in as we speak.” Meg steeples her fingers under her chin, gazing at Than coolly. “We can try to evade them, but that’ll just increase their interest in getting a good shot.”

Than sighs, rubbing his eyes, suspecting he knows what Meg is about to suggest and not liking it one bit. “Or?”

“We give them what they want,” Hypnos says grimly, resignation slumping his shoulders..

“Yeah,” Meg agrees. “We give a select few photographers the chance to grab a few shots of you enjoying a well earned vacation. Once the photos are sold, the interest will die down a little and you can get back to relaxing.”

“What’s the angle?” Than sighs. Out of the corner of his eye he spots Zag approaching, his tray bearing a single cup of coffee.

“Well, they’ve got a photo of you standing casually in the street, so I’d say something a bit more in keeping with your image,” Meg says, squinting at Than speculatively. “A club, maybe? Surround you with a few beautiful women and some booze. Ooh, or maybe a few beach shots. Show off your body a little.”

"Club's a good idea. Let's see if the label knows of any local models we can rope in, a love interest will maximise the price of the photos. With any luck, Meg can convince them off with the chance at a big payout. Zagreus, you know Mykonos well, right? What's the hottest club on the island?" Hypnos turns to Zag as he places a cup of coffee onto the leather placemat in front of Than.

"Cavo Paradiso if you want something big and flashy. Moni is the more exclusive option, it's a bit like a member's club," Zag says quietly, keeping his eyes resolutely fixed on Hypnos. "I can arrange VIP access and service at either."

"Moni sounds more like the vibe we'd be looking for." Meg taps on her iPad, checking out photos of the club. "Looks more upmarket."

"Moni it is." Hypnos jots a few notes down. "I'll call the label's London office and see who's available to tag along. Zagreus, I'll let you know the numbers later?"

"Of course, sir," Zag murmurs. "Can I bring you breakfast while you work, perhaps?"

"That'd be great," Hypnos replies, fingers already flying over his laptop keyboard. "I'll take a smoothie bowl, thanks."

Charon and Meg order their own breakfasts, barely looking at Zag as they get to work. Than waits patiently for him to look his way. When their gazes connect, he requests fruit and Greek yoghurt, trying to apologise for the lack of morning kisses through his eyes alone. Zag smiles professionally before striding off to fetch their meal.

The strategising goes on for hours. Hypnos makes countless calls to the label and various modelling agencies while Meg slips information to a few photographers and calls menswear brands to beg for outfits. They barely notice when the yacht sets sail from Naxos, moving smoothly through the waves in the bright sunshine towards Mykonos. Than and Charon sit at the table, playing cards and offering opinions when they’re asked for them, remaining quiet otherwise. Zag brings breakfast and more coffee, clears the table, serves lunch and clears the table again. Than wishes they could be alone, even for five minutes, but opportunities are few and far between, particularly when Meg ropes Zag into the logistics for a clothes drop later that afternoon.

Later on, Than slinks off to the onboard gym, losing himself to the monotony of his feet pounding on the treadmill and the burn of his muscles on the weight machines. He works through his routine, grateful that there’s no trainer around to yell at him as he sweats, free to daydream as he pleases. He imagines what it would be like to have a vacation like a regular person. How it would feel to wander the streets without people gawking and trying to start conversations with him, how liberating it would be to take off his t-shirt on a beach without worrying that strangers will be critiquing his body the next day.

He grabs a fresh, fluffy towel, reminding himself that if he were a regular person, he wouldn’t be cruising around the Greek islands on a private yacht. He wouldn’t have met Zag at all.

The hot water in the shower beats down on his head, clearing his mind and relaxing his muscles. He scrubs at his skin with an exfoliating brush, washes his hair thoroughly and doesn’t skimp on the body lotion when he emerges into the steamy bathroom. If he’s going to be photographed tonight, he needs to look the best he possibly can. He wraps a towel around his hips and grabs his styling products from their pouch, sitting down to dry his hair.

He almost jumps out of his skin when the bedroom door swings open, revealing a carefully neutral looking Zag and a stressed looking Meg.

“Thanks, Zagreus, appreciate you letting me in. Than, I was knocking on the door for ages, what the hell?”

Than gestures to the hairdryer in his hands wordlessly. Meg simply rolls her eyes, coming to stand behind him at the dressing table, grabbing strands of his hair to inspect his work so far. It’s not often that Meg has to stand in for a stylist, and when she does she really dislikes it, even though she always does a perfectly good job.

He catches Zag’s eyes in the mirror, smiling subtly as Meg starts muttering about the lack of volume in his roots. Zag smiles back, checking that Meg isn’t watching before mouthing “hot” and leaving the room. The warm, fuzzy feeling from the compliment lasts only a few seconds before Meg attacks him with an oversized round brush.

Half an hour later, his hair looks carelessly tousled and casual as if he’s spent the day in the sea. Meg sprays a little more hairspray around him, letting it settle over his hair in a fine mist before proclaiming him done.

“Get some underwear on, I’ll go see if the clothes are here yet,” she says, glancing at her phone as she stalks out of the door.

Than obliges, choosing a thong from the pile of underwear he shoved into a drawer. He sits on the bed, mindlessly scrolling on his phone when the door opens again, Meg dragging a clothes rail laden with garment bags, Zag pushing the other end. He stands, watching Zag swallow visibly as he takes in the sight of Than standing there wearing just a black cotton thong. He can’t stop a smirk from drifting across his lips, catching Zag’s eye and winking lasciviously as Meg rips open the zip on the first garment bag.

“Oh, don’t mind him, Zagreus. He’s used to wandering around in his underwear in front of strangers,” Meg says dismissively, pulling a pair of wet look black jeans out and frowning at them. “You can stay, give us an unbiased opinion.”

“Um, okay,” Zag bleats, his voice strangled and rough. He leans against the doorframe, his cheeks flushing as he stares out of one of the windows, trying to keep his gaze away from Than’s almost naked body.

“Meg, it’s really hot today. Zagreus, is it going to be this hot for the rest of the evening?” Than asks innocently. Zag looks over at him, his professional politeness luring him to make eye contact when he answers. Than pretends to scratch absentmindedly at his left pectoral muscle, watching Zag’s eyes follow his fingers.

“Yeah, it’s, um, likely to be quite warm until well after the sun goes down.” Zag coughs, his cheeks burning.

“Do I have to wear jeans, Meg? I’d prefer not to get all sweaty, sitting around in a club. It’s already so warm, the club's gonna be hot and sticky.”

“Hmm.” Meg glances at him over the top of the clothes rail. She flips through the garment bags. “Maybe we can go for something a bit more relaxed. Rock star on vacation. Or maybe Greek god vibes? Wide leg linen pants, leather sandals, open shirt?”

“Sounds good,” Than murmurs, suppressing a smile as Zag looks out of the window again.

Meg unzips another garment bag, pulling a pair of black linen pants out triumphantly. “Both, hmm. Loose pants, black leather sandals.” She rummages through the other bag. “Oooh. Grey shirt with a very deep cut out at the chest, bunch of necklaces?”

“Perfect.” Than smiles, walking forward to take the pants from her hand. Zag keeps looking out of the window as Than pulls them on, despite the deliberately provocative angle he chooses as he tugs the fabric over his ass and hips. His eyes remain fixed on the windows until Than is wearing the shirt, and even then his gaze darts around the room, uncertain whether he's allowed to look directly at him.

Than runs his hands over his abs, smoothing the shirt into place as Zag tries his hardest not to watch. He slides his feet into his leather sandals, taking a tangle of golden necklaces from Meg and slipping them over his head. She tuts at him, rearranging them as she sees fit until they sit properly against his chest, framed by the slim collar of the shirt.

"Zag, what do you think?" Than asks innocently as Meg steps back.

"You look… good." Zag swallows, seemingly taking the opportunity to rake his eyes up and down his body. "Rock star on vacation, a little relaxed but still sexy." His eyes widen, clearly surprised by his own candour.

Meg nods. “Looking good, Than. Not bad for last minute and no stylist. Drink before dinner?"

"Yeah, I could do with one," Than replies, forcing himself to look away from Zag’s burning cheeks. "Don't you need to get ready?"

"I'll be, like, twenty minutes. No-one's going to be looking at me, obviously." Meg rolls her eyes. "Meet you on deck. Zag, can you take the rail from here?"

"Sure," Zag murmurs, wrapping a hand around the nearest chrome rail, ready to push it out of Than's cabin.

Meg's phone chooses that moment to start ringing. "Shit, one of the photojournalists." She strides out of the room, clothes rail forgotten. "Hi, Eduardo, you'll be glad you caught me…"

The door slams shut behind her.

Zag lets go of the rail, stalking closer, a smug smile on his lips, his cheeks blazing pink. "You, Thanatos, are such a tease."

Than laughs delightedly. "And you, Zagreus, are absolutely adorable when you're blushing so hard."

Zag smirks, stepping in to kiss him. His tongue thrusts between Than's lips almost immediately, his hands floating awkwardly in mid air as Than grabs at his hips.

Than tears his lips from Zag's, raising an eyebrow. "What?"

"Not sure where I'm allowed to put my hands, now you're all dressed up for your photo call." Zag grins, already breathless.

Than chuckles, taking Zag's hands in his. "Your hands won't leave glowing imprints on my body, you know. Although Meg will know if you mess up my hair." He bends, bringing their lips back together sweetly, squeezing Zag's hands gently. "You better take the rail, or Meg will wonder what's keeping you."

Zag nods shakily, disentangling his hands from Than's and grabbing the rail. "I can't wait for tomorrow."

"Me neither. Bring me some tea tonight, tell me the plan?"

"I'll try to stay awake," Zag smiles, opening the inner door. "Have a good evening, Than."

Than wanders upstairs into the twilight, Mykonos spread out before him across the turquoise water. It looks a lot like Santorini and Naxos, whitewashed buildings clinging to the landscape like sugar cubes. Mykonos Town differs only at the shoreline: the buildings perch just at the water's edge, lending it an air of eager enthusiasm over its neighbours.

Than requests an Old Fashioned from one of the stewards, taking it to the railing to look out over their latest island destination. Hypnos and Charon join him with their own drinks, dressed in smart casual clothes ready for a night out. Megaera is resplendent in a lavender dress when she joins them, and they toast their evening, glasses clinking together with a harmonic chime.

The bosun takes them to shore, informing them that he'll wait with the tender until they're ready to return to the yacht. A car whisks them to Matsuhisa for a late dinner of beautifully plated, jewel-like sushi and delicate tempura, served in the open air under the stars. Than has visited Nobu, the restaurant's urban sibling, many times, and he finds he enjoys the al fresco version just as much as the original.

He tries his best to ignore the photos and selfies taken by the other patrons, their phones casually held up in a thinly veiled attempt at subtlety. They are here for publicity, after all. Being seen is part of the job. He eats delicately and minimally, lifting sushi elegantly to his lips with a pair of black lacquered chopsticks, sipping a glass of sake between bites. He doesn't even contemplate dessert.

They encounter a small group of photographers as they leave the restaurant. Than arranges his face into a moody grimace as he folds himself into the car, noting that the rapid fire assault of the flashguns kicks up a notch as he does. Charon shuts the door behind him, walking around the car to slide into the front passenger seat.

"Okay, that went well. Food was good, too," Hypnos breathes a sigh of relief. "Ready for the club?"

"Yeah. Who's joining us?" Than asks, curious. If it's another celebrity, chances are that they're also just out for publicity, making for an easy night of contrived flirting ending and going their separate ways at some point after they leave the club together.

"Her name's Sophia. French supermodel, happens to be vacationing in Mykonos, her people were looking for a way to get her in the press to drum up some interest for London Fashion Week," Hypnos replies, holding up his phone so Than can see what she looks like.

She's attractive, long coltish legs and glossy dark hair. The photo is an advertising shot, probably airbrushed to hell and back, but at least Than will know her when he sees her. Always a good idea if the story is that they know each other intimately, or will do soon.

He wonders what Zag is doing. Hypnos' phone showed the time as just past midnight, a little early to be going to a club but only just. Without guests to look after, will Zag be enjoying a rare evening to himself, or will he and the other stewards be taking advantage of the quiet to spruce up the yacht? Than hopes it's the former. Zag works so hard, always appearing at the right time offering a drink or a snack, arranging the infinite details that have made the vacation so far an enjoyable one. He imagines Zag relaxing on one of the couches, a cool drink in his hand, enjoying the sea breeze in his hair. He's certain Zag would prefer to be relaxing in a garden or a forest, somewhere where he can be close to nature, but he would be surprised if the chief steward would be able to leave the yacht during a charter.

Maybe later this week they can hike together again. Find a shady, private spot to hide out, away from the yacht, away from the constraints of their real lives. Ben and James, sitting in the shade of a tree, chatting and kissing and laughing without a care in the world. Than sighs, suppressing the longing into the pit of his stomach, making sure the celebrity mask is fixed firmly on his face.

The car drives around a beautiful boutique hotel, the trees dotted around its entrance lit dramatically with warm spotlights. They pull around to a service entrance, idling in a starkly lit yard waiting for their guest. Another car pulls in behind them, Hypnos and Meg jumping out to switch so Than and Sophia can make an entrance that speaks of intimacy as soon as they reach the club.

As soon as Than is alone he slides the yacht phone from his pocket, staring at the last message he sent Zag, predictably about tea. Charon opens the door and leaps out, walking swiftly around the car to open the passenger door across from Than. He stuffs the yacht phone back into his pocket, wondering why he brought it with him anyway.

A beautiful woman slides into the backseat next to him, her skin very nearly as perfectly smooth and glowing as the image Hypnos showed him earlier. She wears a tight dress covered in glittering sequins in shades of midnight blue, teal and sea green. Her dark hair is thick and full, braided loosely over one shoulder, and her lips are painted a deep red.

"Sophia, good to meet you. Thanatos."

"I know who you are. How lucky that we find ourselves in Mykonos at the same time." Her voice is rich and sultry, her accent strong enough to be sexy but not so thick she's hard to understand. A perfect, cultivated balance.

"Yeah, very lucky," Than purrs, the mask of his professional persona sinking smoothly into his skin. "You look stunning. Dazzling."

"Thank you," Sophia replies, nonchalant.

They sit in silence for the rest of the drive, which is thankfully short. The car stops outside a nondescript white building, the entrance to the club only identifiable by the gaggle of photographers gathered outside it.

"You ready?" Than asks, glancing over at Sophia.

"Of course."

He waits for Charon to open the door, sliding out smoothly and smirking at the assembled press. He extends his hand towards the shadowy interior of the car, watching as Sophia places a long, tanned leg elegantly on the cobbled street before taking his hand and emerging into the popping lights. The sequins on her dress quiver and shimmer with her movements, and she smiles coyly for the cameras, tucking herself into his side. Than glances down at her, letting a sultry smile touch his lips for just a moment before they walk towards the club, his hand resting lightly on her hip. Ordinarily he would enjoy the attention of such a beautiful woman, genuine or not, but tonight it leaves him cold, just a part of the job.

They sweep into the club, escorted straight to the VIP area and ordering a bottle of champagne and a bottle of whiskey before they've even sat down on the leather couch.

The rest of the evening passes slowly. The music isn't really Than's scene, mostly electronic with a little hiphop thrown into the mix, but he makes it look like he's enjoying watching Sophia dance on the table in front of him. They put on a good show for the photographers, Sophia alternating between dancing for him and lounging in his lap, his arm casually draped over her shoulders, lips hovering close enough for scandal. He feels nothing beyond an objective appreciation for her beauty when he looks at her, his mind drifting back to Zag as he pretends to gaze into her eyes, a knowing smirk pasted on his lips.

They finally leave the club, the car dropping them at the front of Sophia's hotel. They saunter into the hotel together, Than's hand resting blatantly on her pert ass. He walks her to her suite, bidding her goodnight before turning away to escape through the service entrance to return to the yacht. When she grabs his wrist and invites him into her suite, gazing up at him with sultry eyes, he politely declines.

Chapter Text

Zag really shouldn't have allowed Daniel and Anna to goad him into drinking in the crew lounge. Two empty bottles of cheap white wine sit on the counter, another half full bottle in an ice bucket beside them.

"Matsuhisa and then Moni, wow," Daniel mumbles, flipping frantically through various social media platforms, looking for photos of their famous guest. "Looks like a lot of tourists and locals are excited to see your man. So many photos."

"He's not my man," Zag says for the hundredth time, draining his glass of wine.

“You can keep saying it all you want, Zag,” Anna grins, lifting her glass in a mocking toast.

"Huh," Daniel's voice turns surprised.

"What?" Anna asks, shuffling over and grabbing Daniel's phone from his hand. She frowns. "Oh. Hmm."

They both turn to stare at Zag, Daniel biting the inside of his cheek like he does when he's nervous. Anna reaches out and refills Zag's glass, pouring the wine very nearly to the brim.

"What's going on?" Zag asks, his stomach already churning, full of wine and fear. "What did you find?"

Daniel looks at Anna, who nods sharply. "He needs to see."

"Sorry, Zag." Daniel passes his phone over carefully. "Guess you were right, he's not your man."

Zag grabs at the phone, flinching as he takes in the image. Than sits on a white leather couch, legs spread, looking powerful and sexy and completely self assured. A beautiful woman is draped over him, all full breasts and dark hair and long legs. Than's arm is around her, his hand gripping her waist, his skin contrasting with the glittering mermaid sequins decorating her dress. Worse, he's looking in her eyes, their lips close enough that a tiny movement will bring them together. The photo is hot, palpably charged with sexual tension.

They look like two people who will very shortly be fucking each other senseless against the nearest available surface.

Zag feels sick for just a moment before a wall of pure jealousy hits him, igniting a simmering anger unlike anything he's felt before. It burns and tumbles in his stomach, flames licking up his throat and through his chest, infecting his heart with equal parts rage and nausea.

Who is she, this sequinned siren? How dare she drape herself over Than like that, her long nails like claws scraping over the bare skin of his throat? And why the fuck is Than letting her play with him, when just a few hours ago he was kissing Zag like he meant it?

Anna pushes his glass of wine towards him, brows furrowing. "Zag, you okay?"

His poker face must be long gone, melted away in the heat of his fury. He can't bring himself to speak, simply lifting the glass to his lips and swallowing a hasty mouthful.

"Zag?" Daniel murmurs, reaching a tentative hand out to tap his wrist.

His feelings bubble in his sternum, the desire to maintain a professional neutrality warring with the injustice of seeing Than tangled with someone else.

“Zag. You’re worrying us.” Anna nudges his shoulder with hers.

His anger boils over and recedes, souring in his body until it becomes a bone deep, jagged hurt, a knife stabbing into his gut with a serrated blade.

“I kissed him,” Zag mumbles, visceral emotion winning out over professionalism. “I kissed him, he kissed me back, and I thought… I thought he liked me.”

“Oh, Zag.” Daniel gives him a one-armed hug. “You can’t assume it’s anything more than sex, with these people. Can’t expect anything more.”

“Yeah, so what if he’s fucking the supermodel too. You can still enjoy him, right?” Anna adds.

“I… I dunno. I guess I… I thought we had a connection.” Zag swallows hard, his chest hollowing out as his stomach twists again and again.

“I mean, you can have one, but maybe only with his cock,” Anna smirks. “Seriously… if you can’t keep your heart out of it, then maybe you should stay away. The best you can hope for is a fling, right? He’ll be gone in four days.”

“Yeah, I know. I know. Not sure what I was thinking.” Zag takes another swallow of wine, just for something to do with his hands.

Daniel tuts, taking the wine glass from his hands. “Come on, Zag. This is not a wine pity party situation. Supermodel or no supermodel, you kissed the world’s sexiest man, thousands of people would do anything to switch places with you. C’mon, it’s late, let’s go to bed. You can see what Thanatos has to say for himself tomorrow.”

“Alright,” Zag says quietly. “Thanks, guys. And… don’t mention this to anyone, okay? Apart from the obvious kissing a guy scandal for him, I don’t want to lose my job.”

“Our lips are sealed,” Anna mimes drawing a zipper across her mouth, Daniel nodding with her. “Let’s get you to bed.”

Zag lies awake long after Daniel falls asleep, his breathing turning slow and even from the upper bunk as the minutes tick by. His thoughts dip and whirl, the rational part of his mind reminding him that someone like Than would never want anything serious with someone like him, even as his heart dreams up the sweetest of romance scenes between them. He turns over, groaning into his pillow, wishing his mind would shut up and let him sleep already.

At four in the morning, Zag’s phone chimes loudly in the darkness. He grabs for it, almost dropping it on the floor in his enthusiasm, his heart pounding as he reads the message.

Received 04:06
Zag - just back. I’d love some tea before I sleep, if you’re still awake?

He jumps out of his bunk, moving swiftly on bare feet, propelled forward by the remnants of his jealous rage. He doesn’t even bother making the tea, walking into Than’s cabin empty handed in his sleep shorts and t-shirt.

He opens the door to the cabin and walks down the hallway to the bedroom, wrenching the door open without even knocking. Than sits cross legged on the bed, the yacht phone cradled in his hands, his amber eyes snapping to the doorway the moment Zag crosses the threshold. The delight that spreads over his face almost stops Zag in his tracks, but he presses on, coming to an abrupt stop at the end of the bed, staring coldly down at Than, who looks unreasonably hot in pyjama bottoms and a black tank top.

Zag can’t help but feel a thrill of satisfaction when the soft smile slides from Than’s face.

“What’s wrong?” Than throws the yacht phone onto the bed beside him, moving as if to stand.

Zag holds up a hand. “I hope you had a good evening, sir. From the photos, it looks like you got some great publicity and had an enjoyable time with the supermodel. Congratulations.”

Than grimaces, struggling to his feet. Zag takes a step back, maintaining the distance between them. “Zag, are you mad at me?”

Zag snorts. “I have no right to be mad at you, you can do precisely what you want.” He can’t believe he’s being so candid, his mouth running ahead of his brain without stopping to consider the consequences of his words. “But know this, Thanatos, I’m risking my job because I like you for more than your fame and your body.”

Than’s mouth drops open. “I don’t understand. I just wanted to see you.” He steps forward, reaching for Zag’s shoulders.

He catches Than’s wrists, holding him at arm’s length, amazed at his nonchalance. What kind of life does he lead that it’s normal to roll around with two people in one night? He rakes his eyes up and down Than’s body, deliciously appealing even in loungewear, wondering whether he has scratches on his back. Whether he likes being marked. Did he enjoy making the supermodel come as much as he enjoyed making Zag come last night? How is it fair that she has seen Than at the height of his pleasure, and yet Zag hasn’t?

A confusing hurricane of emotion swirls and builds inside him, compounding and compressing until he’s so overwhelmed there’s only one emotion he can respond to. He turns, pushing Than roughly against the wall of his cabin, thrusting his hands into the loose platinum strands and kissing him so hard their teeth clash. Than kisses him back, moaning into his mouth, clearly appreciating the rough treatment. Zag presses his hips forward, grinding against him, wondering if he got hard this quickly for the supermodel.

“You wanted to see me? How do you want to see me? On my knees?” Zag growls, aware he’s overstepping and at the same time completely unable to stop.

Than’s own knees buckle slightly, his hands groping Zag’s ass as he pants into his ear. “Fuck, Zag…”

“Tell me.” He bites Than’s earlobe, pleased with the ragged gasp that results. “Tell me, Than.”

Than cups his face in his hands, pressing a sweet kiss to his lips. “I would love to see you on your knees, if that’s what you want too. I want you so much…”

Zag’s heart clenches. He ignores it, dropping to his knees, tugging Than’s pyjama pants downwards, letting them pool around his ankles, determined to give him the best blowjob he’s ever had, determined to erase every memory of the supermodel from his mind.

A glint of metal has him leaning closer, stroking his fingers up Than’s shaft to find two beads gleaming on the underside, just below the head. He looks up, shocked, meeting Than’s smirk. “You… the rumours are true.”

Than laughs huskily, reaching out to stroke his fingers over Zag’s cheekbone, a mockery of tenderness. “Yeah, they are. One last act of rebellion before the label started controlling literally everything in my life. You like it, Zag?”

Zag swallows, arousal pushing every other emotion from his mind. “Yeah. I do.” He brushes his fingers over the beads, feeling the bar beneath the skin between them, admiring the contrast between the bright silver and Than’s dark skin. “Does it feel good, when I…” He strokes his thumb over the piercing again.

Than’s hands slide into his hair, his fingers scratching gently over his scalp as he moans. “Feels… incredible. Your touch, I mean. You… amazing.”

Zag can no longer tell what’s motivating him, jealousy or competitiveness or desire, but he decides it doesn’t matter, dipping forward and tonguing the head of Than’s cock lavishly, rubbing his lower lip over the silver beads. Than’s fingers tighten in his hair, prompting him to press further forward, taking Than’s cock into his mouth, gripping his hips and running eager thumbs over the muscled furrows leading to his cock.

“Zag. Yes,” Than gasps as he swirls his tongue over the piercing, hollowing his cheeks. Zag moans, Than’s arousal deepening his own as he starts to move his head, lips moving firmly up and down, up and down.

Than tastes beautiful, warm and clean, salty precome already leaking into his mouth. Zag flattens his tongue, shivering at the sensation of the twin beads brushing over the sensitive muscle as he takes Than as deep as he can. Than’s fingers tremble against his scalp, petting his hair tenderly as his hips start to flex forward, fucking his mouth.

Than’s thighs start to quiver. Zag slides his hands around his hips, cupping his ass to lend him some stability, deliberately relaxing his throat. He’s big, thick, delicious, Zag thinks hazily as he swallows around him, wondering what the piercing would feel like inside him. His own cock twitches at the thought, the vibrations of his moan drawing breathy gasps from Than as his hips start to shake.

“Zag, I… I’m gonna come…” Than whispers, his voice low and hoarse.

A flash of triumph dances up Zag’s spine. He bobs his head faster, growling around Than’s cock, feeling the silver beads press into his tongue with each movement. He keeps moving, determined to bring Than over the edge, sucking his cock with hollowed cheeks until Than cries out. His head thumps back against the cabin wall as he comes, flooding Zag’s throat, his legs shaking with the intensity of his climax. Zag keeps swallowing around him, drawing out his pleasure until he begs him to stop, his hands still supporting Than upright against the wall.

He lets Than’s cock slide from his lips, pressing a gentle kiss on the slick head before he stands up. Than stares at him, his eyes wide and his jaw slack, chest heaving.

Zag brushes the lightest of kisses across his trembling lips, cradling his heated face in his hands. “Goodnight, Than. See you in the morning.”

He leaves the room before he’s tempted to stay and embrace Than in the afterglow. He doesn’t look too closely at his emotions as he walks through the silent hallways towards his bunk, uncertain whether he’s succeeded in his goal of erasing the supermodel or simply fallen deeper into a fascination he knows will lead absolutely nowhere.

The next morning, Zag can barely look at Than as he serves brunch, his head pounding from a wine-fuelled headache and his cheeks pink from the memory of what happened in the VIP cabin in the dead of the night. Not just the blowjob, which was hot as hell despite how drunk Zag was when he gave it, but also the way he spoke to Than, the jealous anger in his words. It’s a good thing Than keeps giving him soft, sweet smiles when no-one’s looking, or Zag would be seriously worried about needing to rewrite his resume.

“What time do we need to head to the spa, Zagreus?” Hypnos asks, tossing back the last of his espresso.

“They’re expecting you all at one thirty. Your relaxation journeys have staggered start times. The first part is a walk through an ornamental garden and a foot washing ritual, help you relax before you’re taken to your treatment suite. We should leave the yacht at one, if that suits?” The group nods with varying levels of enthusiasm. “Excellent. I’ll be accompanying you on the tender, I’ll be visiting a fine wine merchant while you’re enjoying your treatments. If you have any requests for wine or any other kind of alcohol, just let me know.”

An hour later, Zag waves them conspicuously goodbye at the harbour, watching as the car pulls away to drive the short distance to the spa retreat. Than knows to wait in the relaxation lounge, his journey ostensibly the last to begin. At two, Zag will collect him from the spa and drive them over to his friend’s apartment. He only hopes no-one spots them leaving together.

Zag visits a few shops, selecting a couple of cases of wine for delivery to the harbour and popping into a pharmacy. He hurries to the apartment, letting himself in and locating the spare key for his friend’s car. It’s almost two by the time he parks under a tree outside the spa retreat. He walks into the modern building, slipping the receptionist a sizable tip before walking into the relaxation lounge. Than jumps to his feet immediately, a grin blooming over his handsome face, his hands already busily stuffing his hair beneath a baseball cap.

“Ready?” Zag breathes, grinning right back at him despite himself.

“Yeah.” Than slips his sunglasses on, reaching out to squeeze Zag’s shoulder. “Let’s go.”

The drive between the spa and the apartment feels much longer this way round, Zag thinks, trying to keep his attention on the road. Than’s legs are so long he has to push the passenger seat back, reminding Zag of how he looked standing in his cabin wearing just that black cotton thong yesterday evening. The memory leads inevitably to another, Than leaning against the wall with his pyjama pants around his ankles, gazing down at him with flushed cheeks. Zag clears his throat, the slightest tinge of stubborn jealousy still simmering in his belly.

“Last night,” Than murmurs, gazing resolutely at the road ahead of them. “You were angry. We should have talked, I shouldn’t have taken advantage of you. I’m sorry. I was thinking about it after you left, and I wondered… were you jealous?”

Zag opens his mouth and then shuts it again, unsure what to say. He has no right to be jealous, after all. In the cold, sober light of the morning, he realised that he had to make a choice: take what Than offers and be happy with it, or leave him alone. Out of the corner of his eye, he catches Than glancing over at him. He wills himself not to blush.

“If you were jealous, you have no reason to be,” Than continues. “Just so you know. Sophia invited me to spend the night with her, and I turned her down.”

“The photos?” Zag asks reflexively, his fingers tightening on the gear stick.

“You saw some photos? Figures,” Than sighs. “They were posed. Designed to tell a story in the press. They weren’t real.”

Zag exhales slowly, surprised by the intensity of the relief spreading through his body. “Oh.”

Than glances at him again, reaching out to rest his hand warm and heavy on Zag’s thigh. “There’s only one person I want to spend the night with, Zag, and he’s right here with me.”

Zag flushes, a small smile lifting the corners of his mouth.

He parks quickly on the street behind the apartment block, ushering Than up the steps and unlocking the door. “Make yourself at home. My friend rents this place out to tourists when he’s not here, so feel free to use whatever.”

Than walks through the living space, dropping his sunglasses onto the dining table and pausing to look out of the arched windows at the ocean spread out beyond the balcony. “Wow.”

“Wow’s about right,” Zag smirks, leaning against the dining table to watch Than, the buttery afternoon light flooding through the window turning his platinum hair pure gold.

Than chuckles, striding over and pulling Zag into his arms, nuzzling his nose against his temple. “We okay?”

“Yeah. I’m sorry I was a dick last night. You’re right, I was jealous. More than a little drunk, too.”

“It’s fine. I understand.” Than’s hand cups his jaw, turning his face up so their eyes meet.

Zag expects him to kiss him, but he doesn’t, his amber eyes soft as he strokes his thumb over his cheekbone. Zag’s heart flips and aches, wanting to believe there’s something other than desire motivating Than’s actions. He swallows, remembering what Than said about the photos from last night being posed. If he can fake that kind of attraction for the camera so easily, what’s to say that the tenderness in his eyes now isn’t an embellishment too?

He places his hand carefully over Than’s, entwining their fingers and tugging them away from his face. He stretches up to kiss him quickly, breaking the embrace to walk over to the fridge. “Want a drink, Than? We should talk before we get too distracted.”

Chapter Text

"Water would be great, thanks." Than wanders over to sit on the spearmint linen couch, admiring the perfect view of the ocean beyond. The apartment is stunning, the perfect balance between minimalist and cosy, smooth white walls coupled with textured, muted art and soft furnishings in shades that echo the breathtaking view.

Zag pulls the fridge open, withdrawing a jug of filtered water and pouring two glasses. As beautiful as the ocean vista might be, Zag himself provides an even more appealing view. He may be wearing the burgundy polo shirt and tan shorts of his uniform, but the simple clothing emphasises his body, clinging to his bulky upper arms and his slim hips.

He shuts the fridge door with a soft hiss and walks over to the couch, a glass in each hand. Than finds himself smiling as he appreciates the beauty of Zag's face, his full lips, chiselled jaw and heavy brow. He has the face of a Greek god, Than thinks dreamily, strong and masculine and expressive. Last night, when he was full of jealousy and indignation, his eyes blazed with emotion, his feelings reflected in every muscle of his face.

Than finds himself wishing that last night had happened differently, that he’d been strong enough to resist. As incredible as Zag's mouth felt sliding up and down his cock felt, he should have stopped Zag when he sank to his knees. He should have made sure the act was as sweet as it had been hot. But he’s increasingly powerless against the emotions Zag has awakened in him, a seashell carried away by the waves.

Zag settles on the couch beside him, placing a glass of water gently into his waiting hand. He smiles warmly, sending prickles of fluttery sweetness over Than's skin. "So. Three hours to ourselves, three and a half if we push it. What do you want this afternoon, Than?"

"I want you," Than takes a sip of water before putting the glass down on the marble coffee table. "Can't we just go to bed and see where things take us?"

"We can, but I want to make sure you're comfortable. We've had a few firsts together already, and I want to make sure any others are good for you. I want you to enjoy this, Than."

"I know I'll enjoy anything we do together." Than leans forward, tangling his fingers in the overlong hair at the back of Zag's neck.

"So you'll enjoy it if I tie you to the bed and push my cock inside you?" Zag asks softly, raising an eyebrow.

Than blanches, a strange mixture of arousal and fear soaking into his mind. "Um, yeah, I guess, maybe."

Zag laughs, not unkindly, his eyes warm and supportive. "This is why we need to talk. You inside me, or me inside you, or just hands and mouths, thighs… You ever tried anal play?"

"Not on the receiving end." Than's face is burning hot, from desire or embarrassment he doesn't know.

"Okay," Zag takes his hand, his voice encouraging.

"I'd really like to be inside you. If you want. If it's okay," Than blurts.

"It's more than okay. I've been thinking about how you'd feel inside me for days, even more since last night." Zag leans forward, brushing a strand of hair away from Than’s face before kissing him softly, a single kiss, nowhere near enough. “Are you only interested in topping?”

“I’m… I think I’d like to try both. But for now, topping seems…” Than’s words dry up in his throat.

“Less unknown?” Zag offers, his eyes crinkling in an understanding smile. Than nods jerkily. “That makes sense. I’ll never push you, Than. If you want to try something, we’ll do it, but I’ll never push you, okay?”

“Okay,” Than echoes, pressing his lips firmly against Zag’s, drawing him into a deep, passionate kiss, the kind that starts slow and sensual and gets more desperate with every passing second. “Can we go to bed now?”

Zag chuckles, rising smoothly to his feet and tugging Than along with him. “Keen to make the most of the time we have?”

“Something like that,” Than grins, letting Zag lead him into the bedroom. The bed is wide and inviting, dressed in white cotton linen with an eggshell comforter, set before a pair of French doors and an arched window, boasting the same view as the living room.

“Hey, how does the piercing work, when it comes to sex?” Zag asks, pushing the comforter off the end of the bed before toeing his sneakers off.

“Generally no problem. Have to take it slow with anal, though, I’m told the beads can be intense.” Than steps out of his sandals, crowding Zag until the backs of his knees press into the edge of the bed.

“Hmm. Not sure I can handle slow, Than.” Zag drapes his hands over Than’s hips and looks up at him, his pupils already dilated.

“Me neither.” Than traces his thumb over Zag’s lower lip, noting how his mismatched eyes blaze as he does so. He slips the digit between Zag’s lips, inhaling as Zag’s tongue presses up to meet him. “I can take it out?”

Zag nods sharply, his teeth biting around the base of Than’s thumb. He draws it out slowly, shivering as Zag sucks hard, reaching down with his free hand to unzip his shorts.

“Need some privacy?” Zag asks, stretching up onto his tiptoes to brush a kiss over Than’s lips.

“You’ve seen it before.” Than eases his shorts down over his hips, taking hold of the barbell and pinching the beads between his fingers tightly. “You can watch, if you like.”

“Oh, I will.” Zag grins wickedly, dropping to sit on the edge of the bed and fixing his eyes on Than’s cock. He’s grateful he’s only half hard, which makes taking the piercing out a little easier, although Zag’s interest definitely isn’t helping. He removes the bar carefully, screwing the bead back on and tucking the warm metal into his pocket.

“You like watching me touch myself?” Than whispers, grasping himself gently, dick hardening rapidly beneath his fingers and Zag’s gaze. Zag licks his lips, watching as Than strokes himself more purposefully, the outline of his own cock growing more defined and visible beneath the tan fabric of his shorts. He leans forward, lips parted, his intentions obvious. Than steps back, palming his cock lightly and enjoying the whine that slips from Zag’s mouth. “I haven’t even seen you naked yet, Zag. Strip for me?”

He stands, immediately gripping the hem of his polo shirt and tugging it over his head. The burgundy fabric pools on the polished concrete floor, tan shorts and black boxers following as Zag sheds his clothes as quickly as he can. He stands naked in front of the bed for just a moment, barely long enough for Than to appreciate his beautiful skin, the dips and curves of his musculature, the dark hair leading tantalisingly down from his belly button. He steps in to push Than’s shorts down his legs, hastily pulling his t-shirt upwards. Than lets go of his cock, helping Zag to get the t-shirt over his head.

He wraps his arms around Than’s waist and wrestles him towards the bed, giggling as they fall awkwardly against the edge. They shuffle upwards onto the mattress together, clutching at each other, pressing their excitable flesh tightly together from chest to hip, tangling their legs as their lips find each other. Zag’s skin feels like suede beneath Than’s fingers, smooth and warm and dusted with fine hairs. His cock brushes against Than’s, not close enough by any means. Than slings his leg over Zag’s thigh, drawing him closer, gasping as their lengths grind together, Zag’s eyes glowing with desire.

“I want you so much,” Zag mumbles, his words tumbling soft and sweet between Than’s lips. Than moans, taking advantage of the parting of his lips to kiss him, crushing Zag against him with hands and thighs alike. “There’s lube in the drawer behind you.”

“Not sure how I feel about borrowing your friend’s lube.” Than peels his body grudgingly from Zag’s, half rolling onto his back to drag the drawer open and scrabble around inside. He pulls out a small bottle, rolling over to kiss Zag’s laughing lips. “What?”

“It’s not my friend’s lube, silly. I went to a pharmacy earlier, bought us some lube and condoms.” Zag kisses the tip of his nose, taking the bottle from his hand. “As if I’d try to seduce you with second hand lube.”

Than chuckles, kissing the golden skin of his shoulder. “Okay, good to know. For the record, though, you seduced me days ago.”

“Oh yeah?” Zag’s eyes sparkle, his hips pushing forwards and back in a shallow, slow rhythm, keeping them breathless and needy.

“Yeah. The first time I saw you, wearing that ridiculously tight shirt.” Than kisses him, slow and gentle, their mouths moving so sweetly together.

“Oh god, that shirt. I’m glad something good came of it. But enough talk… I need you to open me up.” Zag disentangles himself from Than’s arms enough to flip the cap on the bottle, squeezing drops of cool, silky liquid onto Than’s fingers. He rolls onto his back, tucking a pillow beneath his hips and spreading his legs. “I can’t wait to fuck you. Touch me.”

Than slots Zag’s leg between his thighs, pressing closer and trying to ignore the feeling of his dick against Zag’s hip. He circles his entrance gently with a slick fingertip, appreciating the way Zag’s stomach draws concave as he gasps, his cock twitching against his stomach. He stretches to kiss him, easing his middle finger slowly inside, echoing the languid movements of his tongue in Zag’s mouth. After a few minutes he adds another finger, stroking the fluttering muscle before pushing inside. Heat pools low in his belly as Zag moans his name.

“I love hearing you say my name like that,” Than whispers, sliding his fingers slowly in and out. Zag’s hips tilt, chasing his hand, his cock already leaking at the tip. Than’s mouth floods, suddenly desperate to taste the welling liquid. “Zag, I want you in my mouth.”

“Please,” Zag moans, wrenching his green eye open to squint at him through a haze of pleasure. “Oh god, Than, please suck my cock.”

Than stretches over him, careful to keep up the movements of his fingers, licking delicately over the head. The taste is more bitter than he expects, the skin flushed and incredibly smooth, satin over steel. He dips his head and takes the head bravely between his lips, trying to replicate the teasing swirls of Zag’s tongue last night. Zag’s fingers tangle in his hair, his moans amplifying in response, and Than smiles around his mouthful, pleased to be doing something right. The wet sounds of Zag’s cock in his mouth blur into the slick glide of his fingers in Zag’s hole, a salacious symphony he wishes he could listen to every night.

“Than, fuck, stop,” Zag gasps. Than freezes, letting his cock fall from his lips, fingers stilling just inside him. “I’m… I want to ride you. Lie on your back.”

He pulls his fingers gently from Zag’s hole, rolling obediently onto his back. Zag straddles him immediately, leaning forwards to kiss him before opening the drawer to grab the box of condoms. He rips open a foil packet, hands trembling as he rolls the condom slowly down Than's length, the tip of his tongue poking from between his lips in concentration.

He shuffles into position, the hair on his legs tickling Than's thighs. "Ready? Still want to do this?"

Than runs his hands over Zag's thighs, holding his hips gently. "Are you serious? Fuck me already."

Zag laughs, placing a hand over Than's. "Okay, okay. It was kind of a stupid question." He grabs Than's cock firmly, rubbing the covered head over his hole before sinking down a mere inch. "Fuck, you're so big."

"I bet you say that to all the boys," Than jokes, gritting his teeth against the already overwhelming sensation assaulting the head of his cock. "Oh, Zag… so tight…"

"I bet you say that to all the… ah!" Zag retorts, his breathing laboured. "I need to relax. Fuck, I can't… you're just so…"

Than sits up, wrapping his arms around Zag's back and trailing kisses up his neck. "Relax for me. I want to be inside you so much, so deep. Relax, babe."

Zag gasps, pressing down a little further as his lips claim Than's, his kisses light and affectionate. Than clutches him closer, running his fingers up and down his spine as his body softens and relaxes in his lap. He resists the urge to thrust, trusting Zag to set the pace, his heart rate increasing with every pleasured breath Zag expels against his neck. When Zag has worked his way fully down Than's dick, he rolls his hips, shallowly at first, his movements increasing as he adjusts.

Than knows he's ready when Zag pushes him back against the pillows, his hands pressed flat against the rippling flesh of Than's abdomen. His pupils are blown wide, dark and heated, darkening further as he lifts his hips and sinks back down.

"Yes," Zag hisses. "Fuck, yes, yes, give it to me."

Than watches, already so close to orgasm that he doesn't dare move, his muscles focused solely on staving off his release. Zag starts riding him harder, his hips rising and falling, interspersed with filthy little grinding movements that cause him to throw his head back and cry out.

"Than," he moans. "Than, Than, fuck…"

He opens his eyes and catches Than's gaze. The electricity that rushes through him with the eye contact nearly makes him come on the spot, the connection between them crackling intensely with tingling sparks.

Than sits up abruptly, pressing his forehead against Zag's, eye contact intact, arms wrapped tightly around his back. Zag shifts, leaning back as he rearranges his legs, trusting Than to support him as his thighs grip his sides. When he’s settled, Than lets go, thrusting up and pulling Zag down. He realises he's moaning Zag's name again and again in a rhythm that matches the cadence of their joining, his breath punching out of his lungs every time he's fully sheathed in Zag's body.

Zag moans, pliant in Than’s arms, his thighs tense as Than fills him again and again. He’s so vocal, whimpering and moaning with every thrust, clinging to Than’s shoulders as their bodies come together again and again.

“You feel so good.” Than forces the words out, close to losing himself in Zag’s body, in his eyes. His dark hair is damp with sweat, his cheeks adorably flushed. “You look so good like this. I can’t wait to see you come…”

Zag cries out, pushing his fingers into Than’s hair and tugging his face closer. Suddenly they're kissing sloppily, their lips wet with saliva, Zag's hand squeezing between them to fondle his cock.

"Come inside me," Zag pants when they eventually break apart, both of them gasping for breath. "Please, come inside me, Than, I want it so much." His hand moves faster against Than's belly, his breathing harsh against Than’s lips as he approaches his own climax.

"Zag… can't… can't stop..." Than growls, every muscle pulling taut as his orgasm hits him, pleasure bursting and exploding through his groin as he shoves his cock as deep inside him as he can. Zag grinds his hips down, keening as he somehow clenches impossibly tighter, warm fluid spilling between them as he finds his own release.

Zag sags against him, breathing heavily, his body shaking and trembling. Than kisses his temple, murmuring soft praise as Zag inhales breath after shuddering breath, his hands clutching Than's shoulder blades.

"Is it always like that for you?" Than whispers, his lips returning to Zag's face again and again.

"Depends on the chemistry. Rarely that intense." Zag lifts his face from Than's neck, his eyes almost coy. "Maybe because we've been waiting for so long."

"Mmm," Than hums. He keeps stroking Zag's back, his stomach squirming with emotions he can't bring himself to name. They sit together, bodies still connected, holding each other tightly as the minutes pass by. "You good?"

"So good," Zag murmurs, his eyes sliding off over Than's shoulder. His stomach growls suddenly. "Oops, sorry. Guess I'm hungry. I didn’t have time to grab lunch."

"You said your friend was okay with us using whatever's here, right? Maybe I can make us something?"

"Oh no, let me. You're on vacation, you shouldn't need to cook." Zag presses his lips together, clambering abruptly out of Than's arms.

Than removes the condom from his softening cock, biting his lip at the sudden coolness in Zag’s eyes. "I like cooking. Let me cook for you, Zag. Please. I want… I want to take care of you."

"Okay," Zag smiles shyly before he looks away. "Shall we, um, clean up?"

"Yeah." Than follows him into the bathroom, stooping to kiss the back of his shoulder before they make use of the double sinks carved into the white marble counter. He glances at Zag’s reflection in the mirror, concern twisting his stomach at the guarded look in his mismatched eyes.

He grabs two white towelling robes from the back of the bathroom door, shrugging one on and guiding Zag’s arms into the other. He wraps the soft fabric gently around him, tying the belt securely before pressing a kiss against his forehead.

He holds Zag’s hand tightly in his as they walk back towards the kitchen. Zag sits at the dining table, watching as he pulls drawers and cupboards open, surveying their contents. He checks the fridge before padding over to the balcony, bending to smell the herbs growing in a pretty pale blue window box. "There's basil, olive oil, pine nuts and parmesan, I can make a quick fresh pesto to go with some spaghetti if you like?"

"Sounds good." Zag throws him a half smile, playing with the sash of his robe, folding and turning it in his hands.

“Shit, I need a hairband,” Than murmurs, gathering his long blonde hair in his hands. Zag shakes his hair free, passing his hairband over wordlessly and watching as Than ties his hair into a looping ponytail. “Thanks.”

He puts some water on to boil before dragging a heavy pestle and mortar from a cupboard, setting it carefully on the worktop. He heats a small pan, toasting the pine nuts until they're golden brown and fragrant, filling the air with their rich, oily scent. He gathers basil from the window box, tearing it roughly before dropping it into the mortar with the toasted pine nuts. A quick pound with the pestle, a glug of oil and a handful of grated parmesan, and the pesto is ready. A minute later, the pasta is cooked, steam billowing over Than's face as he drains it.

"For you." Than sets a shallow bowl of pesto anointed spaghetti in front of Zag, taking a seat opposite him.

"Thanks, looks great." Zag twirls the spaghetti around his fork and pops it into his mouth, eyebrows raising as the flavours of the pesto hit his palate. "Oh wow, it's good. Perfectly balanced. I wish we had a good bottle of Sauvignon Blanc to drink with it."

Than smiles, happy to be taking care of Zagreus for once and grateful for the warmth creeping back into his eyes. "Bowl of pasta, good wine, great company… sounds like a perfect date to me."

"Is that what this is?" Zag asks quietly, gazing into his pasta. "No, forget it. Stupid question."

"Hey," Than murmurs, unnamed emotion fizzing in his chest as Zag lifts his eyes to meet him. "I would love to date you. If things were different."

"Ben and James, huh?" Zag chuckles, the tiniest thread of bitterness running through his mirth.

"Ben and James," Than confirms, his heart aching as he decides to change the subject. "So, you're into wine?"

"I used to like it, but not really understand it," Zag begins, taking the bait. "The Agape Mou's old chief steward was an amazing mentor to me. She suggested that if I wanted to be a chief steward myself someday, I should learn about wine. Fairly typical interest for the types of clients we host. I started taking courses between charters, qualified as a sommelier last year. Just in time to apply for the chief steward role when she decided to move to the Caribbean."

"Good timing," Than murmurs, forking more spaghetti into his mouth and chewing hungrily, hoping Zag will continue to open up.

"Yeah, I think it was a subtle way of getting me ready to take the role. I just hope I can help my team as much as she helped me."

"I'm sure you will. You're a kind person. You care for others. And you're good at your job."

Zag flushes and looks down. "Thanks."

"You don't like compliments?" Than feels his lips twitch.

"I, um… they're okay." Zag's blush deepens.

"Strange, when you're so deserving of them. You're beautiful, you know? I love how expressive your face can be," Than continues, a smirk tugging at his mouth. "And your body." He mimes wiping sweat from his brow with the back of his hand.

"My body?" Zag says, shy amusement bubbling in his voice.

"Yeah. You have…" Than leans over the table, his voice dropping to a conspiratorial whisper. "You have great elbows."

Zag lets out a shocked laugh. "Great elbows?"

"Oh yeah." Than presses his lips together, trying to hold back his own mirth. "Great elbows."

They stare at each other for a few seconds before they burst into giggles.

"Oh god, Than," Zag gasps. "You're so silly." He reaches out and grabs Than's forearm, sliding his palm down over his wrist to slot their fingers together.

Their hands fit perfectly together, Than realises. He swallows the bolt of bittersweetness and raises their hands to his lips, pressing a smacking kiss against the back of Zag's hand. Zag smiles up at him, soft and indulgent, his earlier coolness forgotten. Than feels as if he would gladly pause life in this moment, stay in the apartment forever. He blinks, consciously letting go of the unexpected sentimentality. "What do you want to do now?"

Zag grins wickedly. "We've still got an hour and a half…"

"Again?" Than murmurs, raising their hands to his lips once more to kiss Zag's knuckles.

"You want to?" Zag asks, sliding his leg against Than's beneath the table.

"Of course." Than rolls his eyes, standing abruptly and stepping around the table, pulling Zag out of his seat and into his arms. "I want you slow, this time. You maybe want to try with the piercing in?"

Zag hums his agreement, gazing up at Than with shining eyes. His eyes turn shocked as Than stoops to lift him, his legs kicking free of the trailing robe to wrap around Than's hips. Than carries him back towards the bedroom, tasting the echoes of their shared meal in his mouth.

Chapter Text

Than lays Zag gently on the bed, kissing his cheek sweetly before he crouches to rummage in the pockets of his discarded shorts for the barbell. He straightens and loosens the knot at his waist, exposing a glimpse of his muscular body, the soft fabric framing his beautiful cock. Moments later the robe falls to the floor, giving Zag a fleeting view of Than’s gorgeous body before he sits on the edge of the bed to thread the metal back into place.

Zag rolls himself upright, watching Than’s face. He's so handsome, maybe even more so than he is in the publicity shots. Zag's mind can’t help but flicker back to how he looked at the dining table, relaxed and giggling with a bowl of pasta in front of him.

Laughter suits him far better than the moody stare he wears so often in public.

Zag's fingers find their way back to the robe's belt, folding and twisting the fabric nervously. He could so easily fall for Than, the real Than - the one who's soft and silly, kind and earnest. He reminds himself that they have only a few days left until Than gets back on a plane. Reminds himself that this is a fling, fleeting and beautiful like cherry blossom, destined to be carried away by the wind until nothing remains but the memory of it.

Than twists, taking the sash from Zag’s hands, undoing the knot and spreading the fabric open, tugging it away from his body and throwing it to the floor. He pushes Zag onto his back and presses a trail of kisses onto his skin, starting at his stomach and heading slowly upwards. "It's not just your elbows," he whispers between each kiss. "Your hips. Your stomach. Your chest. Your neck. Your face. Every part of you is beautiful."

Zag closes his eyes, letting himself luxuriate in the moment. Than reaches his collarbone, his lips leaving tingles in their wake as he crosses Zag's throat and works his way towards his mouth. They kiss slowly, deeply, as if they have all the time in the world.

"How do you want me?" Zag murmurs, lips brushing Than's cheekbone. He feels desire rising in his blood, glowing with warmth and sparkling with forbidden motes of affection.

"On your stomach?" Than replies, hesitant.

"Mmm," Zag slips his tongue back into Than's mouth, fingers drifting downwards to stroke his hardening cock. "One of my favourites. How do you…?"

Than chuckles uneasily. "I, um… porn?"

Zag’s heart aches for him. He can’t bear the thought of Than stamping his shame down inside, so fearful of his own desires. He chooses to laugh softly, wrapping his hand around Than's length and stroking him lightly, teasingly. "Most people watch porn, Than. Nothing to be ashamed of."

"I guess," Than whispers, his lashes lowered. "I just…. I've been in the closet so long I felt guilty whenever I did."

"You have nothing to feel guilty about." Zag releases his cock and cups his face between his palms, pressing kisses over his cheeks, his nose, his lips.

Than makes a noncommittal noise in his throat, his lips pursing to receive Zag’s kisses.

“Hey.” Zag pushes Than off him, nudging his limbs until he’s sitting on the edge of the bed again, his thick, strong thigh between Zag’s knees. "It's understandable, needing to hide yourself, in your business. Just don't hide from me, okay? You never need to hide from me."

"Okay," Than breathes, his tone caught between convincing and placatory. He pulls Zag’s face closer, kissing him gently, the brushes of his lips so tender Zag could almost read too much into them.

Zag shivers, pushing everything aside and focusing on the tingling chemistry prickling between them. He reaches out, fingers trailing slowly up and down Than’s cock, teasing the silver beads with his fingers. “You’re gorgeous, Thanatos. I want you so much.”

Than inhales deeply, glancing down at Zag’s fingers. “I want you too. More than I can tell you.”

Zag waits for his amber eyes to lift back up to his face, leaning in to kiss him slowly. “I can’t wait to feel you inside me again. I can’t get enough of you. Can’t get enough of your cock.” He curls his fingers around Than’s length, pumping his fist slowly up and down. The head is already slick, smearing messily on Zag’s fingers. His own precome leaks over Than’s thigh as he thrusts his hips lazily, enjoying the heat of Than’s body against his. He recognises the symmetry of their desire for each other through a haze of cloying arousal.

Than cups his buttock, fingers dipping between his cheeks to tease his hole. "You still relaxed enough?"

"Yeah. Won’t say no if you want to keep doing that, though.” Zag strokes Than’s cock firmly, the movements becoming a conscious effort as pleasure curls and sweeps through his body.

“Lie down, Zag.” Than gives him just a moment to clamber from his lap, his chest almost immediately pressed flush against Zag's back. Light, tickling kisses brush over his shoulders and neck, Than's hums of satisfaction vibrating through the hard muscle of his pecs. "You feel so good. I could just…"

Than rolls his hips, his cock sliding over Zag's ass, dipping slightly between his cheeks but not enough. Zag pushes back against him, already needy, his own cock trapped helpless against the mattress beneath him. "Than, put a condom on and fuck me."

“You said you wanted my fingers?” Than whispers, licking delicately over the shell of his ear.

“Yes. No. Fuck,” Zag moans, grinding into the sheets beneath him, shivers coursing through his body with every movement of Than’s tongue.

“Which is it, Zag?" Than licks into his ear harder, laughing softly as Zag mewls out a string of curses. “Okay, okay, I got you. Patience.”

Than stretches over his back, grabbing the lube from the nightstand. He spreads Zag’s cheeks, murmuring his appreciation as he drizzles a thin stream of liquid between them. The coolness of the lube against his burning flesh causes Zag to jolt. Than tosses the lube to the side, laying his hand flat between his shoulder blades, pressing him down into the mattress as he strokes two fingers over his entrance.

“Than. Stop teasing,” Zag growls, half heartedly struggling against the pressure on his back. It lifts away immediately, the warmth of Than’s hand replaced by his lips, kissing gently down his spine.

Than shushes him, his fingers circling the tight muscle as he continues his journey down. When he hits the dip at his lower back, he pushes his fingers inside, biting gently at Zag’s ass cheek. The feeling is intense, good enough that Zag pushes his hips up and back, encouraging Than to fuck him with his fingers.

“So good for me,” Than whispers as if in a daze, fingers thrusting slowly in and out. “I don’t think you need this, but you want it, don’t you?”

“Yeah,” Zag moans, grabbing a pillow and wrapping his arms around it, squeezing it tightly. Than’s fingers feel incredible, the intimacy of them inside him almost as arousing as the physical sensation.

“Do you want my cock more?”

Zag shivers, Than’s words setting him aflame. “Yeah. Please. Please fuck me.”

Than pulls his fingers gently out of Zag’s body. He feels immediately empty, his ears straining for the sound of a condom being shaken free of the box, for any sign that he’s soon to be filled again. The anticipation seems to slow time, his breathing loud and laboured as he waits, competing with his heartbeat to fill his ears.

Than pushes his legs further apart, the covered head of his cock pressing lightly against his hole. He pushes inside slowly, carefully, the beads dragging against his tender flesh in a way that feels equal parts foreign and thrilling. “Okay, Zag?”

“God, yeah. Keep going,” Zag moans, clutching the pillow to his chest.

Than’s upper body presses against his back, his arms slipping around Zag’s shoulder and under his arm, holding him tightly. “Fuck, you feel…”

Zag grabs at Than’s forearms, abandoning the pillow as the beads skate slowly over his prostate. Than’s arms tighten around him, his teeth scraping gently over his earlobe as he bottoms out. He can feel the metal beads deep inside him. The more he gets used to the sensation, the more he likes it. He moans Than’s name, his cock twitching against the sheets, every nerve in his body smouldering with white hot embers of pleasure.

“You like it?” Than whispers in his ear, starting to thrust slowly, carefully, his cock and the beads dragging deliciously inside him. “Can you feel the barbell?”

Zag moans in the affirmative, too overwhelmed for coherent speech. Than fucks him slowly, experimentally, asking which movements feel best until he finds his prostate again. The beads press and rub against the tender tissues almost too intensely, Zag’s thighs trembling with the effort of trying to control the pleasure assaulting his body.

Than kisses his earlobe, his tongue returning to continue its assault on Zag’s ear. “I could fuck you like this for hours.”

He whines, gripping Than’s forearms harder, simultaneously wishing for more friction against his neglected cock while not being entirely sure he could take any more. He’s had some good sex in his life, but this feels like drowning in champagne and honey, sparkling and sweet and overwhelming and oh…

“I’d like to keep you in my cabin, fuck you like this all night,” Than whispers, his breath hot in Zag’s ear, adding to the physical pleasure. “We’d sleep a little, just enough to recover some energy, and then I’d fuck you again. Over and over, until you can’t remember how your body feels without my dick inside you.”

“Than,” Zag gasps, digging his fingernails into the strong arms wrapped around his chest. “Fuck, Than, you can’t… you can’t just say things like that. You’ll make me come.”

“I want to make you come, Zag. If I could spend the next three days just making you come again and again… until you’re so exhausted from pleasure all you can do is lie there and take my cock. Like you’re doing now.”

Zag writhes as best he can under Than’s weight, his words and his thrusts causing sweet tension to coil sharply between his legs. Than pushes his hips forwards and back, targeting Zag’s prostate with increasing confidence and precision.

“I want you to come for me, Zag. I want to feel you tighten around my dick and I want to fuck you through it. Fuck, I…” Than’s thrusts become slow and shallow, grinding and pushing the head of his cock and the barbell below it against Zag’s prostate again and again. “You feel so good, I can’t…”

“Than….” Zag shudders, his blood sparkling with desire and trust and the sheer, burning need to come. “Please. Please, Than.”

“I’ve got you,” Than murmurs, kissing his temple with surprising tenderness before dipping the tip of his tongue into his ear, his arms pulling his body hard into his chest as he grinds into him.

Zag screams, hips jerking as he comes into the sheets, his limbs pulling into his body as he drowns in some of the most intense pleasure he has ever felt. Than whispers his name like a prayer, his voice shaky as he fucks him through his climax before thrusting in and out once more, collapsing on top of Zag as he succumbs to his own orgasm.

It takes more than a few moments for the thundering of his heartbeat to subside from his ears. Than withdraws carefully, rolling to the side and tugging Zag against him in one shaky movement. He presses quiveringly soft kisses against his lips, inhaling Zag's panting gasps as they catch their breath. "What you do to me, Zag."

"I came so hard I nearly died, I swear," Zag mutters, brushing a kiss over Than's lips and cuddling against him, head tucked comfortably into his neck.

"Piercing that good, huh?" Than smiles, curving his hand over the back of Zag's skull and petting his hair. Zag melts with warmth and affection, relaxing into his arms and laying his palm on his chest.

"Those little beads feel amazing, but it's all you, Than. It's all you." He's aware he's probably saying too much, but he feels blissful enough that it doesn't matter. The bone deep satisfaction of a good fuck is adulterated with something rich and sweet and forbidden, a bite of dessert meant for the yacht's guests and not for the crew.

Than doesn't reply, his fingers trailing gently through Zag's hair in a soothing, repetitive motion, his lips resting still on his forehead. They doze, cuddled in each other's arms, skin sticky with cooling sweat as the afternoon light turns wistful and mellow, draping over them like a glowing blanket.

Until Zag’s phone blares from the pile of fabric littered around the foot of the bed. They both jump, clutching each other instinctively.

“Sorry. I set an alarm, give us half an hour’s warning before we need to leave.” Zag purses his lips, unwilling for their time together to come to an end just yet.

“Damn, the past few hours went by so fast,” Than says, tipping Zag’s face upwards to kiss him. “Want to shower together before I clean up the kitchen?”

“If we’re quick and we don’t get distracted, yeah.” Zag swings his legs onto the coolness of the floor, gathering the bundle of clothes and shaking them out before laying them neatly on the chair in the corner.

“I’m always distracted when I’m with you,” Than murmurs, his voice almost melancholic.

The shower is nowhere near as intimate as Zag wishes it could be. They deliberately keep their distance, taking turns lathering up and stepping beneath the spray, conscious that any attempts to wash each other will cost them time they definitely don’t have. Their unspoken agreement doesn’t prevent them from looking , though. Zag admires how the soapy water sluices down Than’s back, his hair held carefully out of the way with Zag’s hairband. He may have spent plenty of time up close and personal with Than’s body already, but he still finds tiny details to gaze upon; the tiny mole on his thigh, a faint scar on his knee, what looks like a birthmark on the smooth skin beneath his armpit.

They dry off in silence, padding back into the bedroom to dress, shaking the last of the creases from their clothes so no-one will guess that they’ve spent the past few hours out of them. Together, they strip the bed, piling the linen and the used towels into a laundry bin in the corner of the bathroom. Than stacks the dishwasher while Zag wipes the counter and the table, and then they're done.

"Ready?" Zag asks softly, grabbing the car key from the seafoam green dish by the front door.

"As I'll ever be. Here, your hairband." Than tugs the elastic from his hair, dropping it into Zag's palm and folding his fingers over it. His hand lingers, as if he doesn't want to let go. "Thank you, Zag. This afternoon has been amazing."

"For me, too. It's going to be even harder pretending there's nothing between us after today. I'll head back to the yacht as soon as I can, buy us a little time to cool off. But I'll see you at dinner."

"Will you bring me tea tonight?"

Zag laughs, delighted that Than is already thinking of the next opportunity to be alone. "You're insatiable."

"I was actually thinking I'd like to spend more time with you. Just talk, make out a little, hold you." Than steps in, wrapping his arms around him so tightly that for a moment Zag feels protected, safe, cherished.

He pushes the feelings away. Just a fling. Just a fling.

"If you text me for tea, I'll bring you tea," Zag says, his words muffled against Than's chest, hugging him back with equal intensity.

Internationally famous, smoking hot, ostensibly straight rock stars don’t get into relationships with yacht crew members born on tiny Greek islands.

Just a fling.

"One last kiss?" Than releases him just enough, his hands resting heavy on his hips.

Zag stretches up, his own hands placed lightly at the small of Than's back. The kiss is sweet and light, a cool glass of pomegranate lemonade on a hot summer's day, comforting and familiar.

It doesn't last anywhere near long enough.

Zag drives Than back to the spa, guiding him back to the relaxation lounge and tipping the receptionist again on his way out. He drives back to the apartment at breakneck speed, dropping car and keys back where he found them and racing to the harbour to charter a tender.

Back on board, he slinks into the tiny office, reviewing the interior reports written by Daniel and Anna. The deep clean and inventory is a little overdue thanks to their guests' decision to stay onboard the previous day, and there's a list of tiny imperfections that need solving tomorrow.

Guilt gnaws at Zag's stomach. His team were working hard all afternoon, and he was fucking the client in an anonymous apartment. He resolves to work through the fix list tomorrow, send the group out to enjoy Mykonos on their own. He sighs, starting a fresh food order based on the menus Chef has left on the desk.

Anna bounces into the office, smiling when she spots him. "Zag! You're back. Reports okay?"

"Yeah, thanks for handling everything. We'll get stuck into the things that need fixing tomorrow, assuming our guests head out for a few hours."

"Cool. They just got back, actually. I offered them drinks but they all looked too blissed out and sleepy for booze. Except Thanatos, for some reason he kept breaking into these euphoric little smiles. I want whatever he had next time I go to the spa."

Zag suppresses his own euphoric little smile, willing his cheeks to stay cool. "Interesting, guess he had a good time."

"Hang on." Anna's gaze sharpens. "You're blushing."

"I am not blushing," Zag deadpans, cringing behind his poker face.

"You are," Anna prowls closer, sniffing the air suspiciously. "Thanatos smelled different to the others. Like, really citrusy. I thought it was a different choice of aromatherapy oil, but you smell the same as he does. Why is that, I wonder?"

"No idea," Zag says, forcing lightness and cheer into his voice. "Anyway, want to help me with ideas for tomorrow? I'm sure our guests want to see more of Mykonos than a club and a spa."

"Zagreus." Anna glowers at him.

"Anna. Attractions for Mykonos for tomorrow?" Zag fights the instinct to look away, his body betraying him as his face heats and heats.

"You snuck him out somewhere, didn't you? While the others were in the spa?"

Zag tries to arrange his face into a disapproving, of course I wouldn’t do that I’m far too professional expression, one unamused eyebrow raised.

It obviously doesn’t work, because Anna’s mouth drops open. “Oh my god. You and Thanatos, sneaking around together! Did you decide the supermodel didn’t matter? Where did you go? Did you give him a special massage?”

“Anna!” Zag gasps, trying to look shocked by her accusations.

“Zagreus, your face is bright red. Admit it.” Anna’s eyes dance with scandalised curiosity.

“I…”

“Admit it!” she skips around the desk and pokes him in the side.

He sighs, knowing when he’s cornered beyond the possibility of escape. “Okay, fine, we went somewhere else while the others were in the spa.”

“Did you see him naked? Tell me you saw him naked. His muscles have muscles in the press shots,” Anna jabbers excitedly. “And is the rumour about the dick piercing true?”

“No comment,” Zag says, biting back the knowing smile that threatens his face.

“It’s true, isn’t it? Oh my god.” Anna grins at him, eyebrows raised so far they nearly disappear into the sweep of dark hair that falls across her forehead.

“Look, I’m not telling you. I admitted we went somewhere, I’ll admit there was more kissing, but that’s it. The details are between the two of us.”

“Awww, you are so cute. You’re an us already. Just let me know if you need me to cover for you, okay? I’m happy you’re happy. You are happy, right?” Anna barely waits for Zag to nod before beaming at him all over again. “Can I tell Daniel?”

“If you really have to. I guess I’ll have to tell Captain Poseidon too,” Zag says thoughtfully. The crew is a tight knit community, and if Anna knows, it really won’t be long before Daniel knows. If Daniel knows, it won’t be long before the whole crew knows. The Captain is less likely to fire him if he hears the news from Zag himself rather than on the Agape Mou’s grapevine.

A chill spider walks down Zag’s spine. Less likely to fire him.

Fuck.

Chapter Text

Than changes into his pyjamas, his belly full of delicious food. Dinner was a spectacular squid ink risotto, the black rice crowned with perfectly cooked rings of griddled squid and steamed mussels, paired with a light Albariño, thanks to Zag. He had poured the wine into Than’s glass, displaying the bottle as he tasted it, his lips arranged into a professional smile even as his eyes sparkled with a secret warmth. The flavour of the cool white wine didn’t stick in his mind, but the look in Zag’s eyes definitely did.

It was a good thing Hypnos skipped dinner in favour of an early night. Than suspects his twin would have smelled a rat if he’d glanced at Than's face while Zag served them.

He tidies the room a little, putting his sandals away in the wardrobe and stacking his devices neatly by the side of the bed. He draws the thick, shimmering curtains over the window and plays with the lighting options until the room is softly lit, almost romantic. Satisfied, he grabs the yacht phone from the nightstand.

Sent 22:03
Hey Zag - would you bring a bottle of red wine to my room?
No preference on what kind, happy to take your personal recommendation.
Two glasses, please.

He takes a seat on the leather couch to wait. A minute later he jumps up, striding into the bathroom to apply some cologne, straightening his tank top minutely before heading back into the bedroom and sitting back down.

When Zag knocks on the outer door, Than springs to his feet, nearly sprinting down the hallway to let him in.

“Good evening, Than,” Zag says in his professional voice, his lips quirking into a knowing smile. “Would you like me to bring your wine through for you?”

“Yes please.” Than holds the door open and steps aside, following him into the bedroom.

Zag glances around the room, arranging the wine and the glasses neatly on a side table. “Oh, I thought maybe you were hanging out with someone. I opened the wine already so it can breathe, it’ll be fine for a while if you’re waiting.”

“I was waiting for you, actually,” Than smiles, stepping closer and pressing a soft kiss against Zag’s cheek. “Share the wine with me?”

“Um, but it’s still early,” Zag replies, a flush rising on his face. “Someone might come looking for you?”

“I told the others I was sleepy from the spa. To be fair, Meg and Charon were so relaxed they were yawning over dinner. So I bet the coast is clear if you’re up for spending some time together. Like, a secret date.”

“A secret date?” Zag echoes, his blush deepening.

“Yeah. I just… I want to spend more time with you.” He leaves the “while I still can” part unsaid.

Zag clearly understands the implication, his smile dimming slightly. He coughs, turning back to the wine. “In that case, I’d love to share a glass with you. I’ll pour.”

“Alright.” Than perches on the couch, watching as Zag pours two precisely equal glasses of wine, the liquid a dark ruby in the low light. Zag hands him one of the glasses, taking the other for himself and sitting down beside him, leaving a small gap between them. Than shuffles a little closer until Zag’s knee brushes against his. “How do you say cheers in Greek again?”

“Yamas,” Zag replies, holding his glass aloft.

“Yamas, Zag.” A resonant chime rings out as their glasses touch. “What does it mean, exactly?”

“It’s a shortened form of ‘stin iyia mas’, which means ‘to our health’.” Zag swirls the wine in his glass, examining the way the liquid settles back to level. Than watches as he takes a sip, moving the wine subtly around his mouth before he swallows. “Hmm, that’s good. What do you think?”

“It tastes of wine. Nice wine,” Than chuckles. “I’m sorry. I really don’t know anything about wine.”

“That’s okay,” Zag smiles, taking another sip. “It’s a pinot noir. Known for being relatively light bodied, but still complex. I didn’t want to give you anything too heavy. So long as you’re enjoying it.”

“Definitely am. Enjoying it, I mean. Thanks.” Than takes another sip, feeling strangely nervous despite their earlier intimacy.

“If you’re not into wine, are you into spirits or beer? Most of the people who charter the yacht have exacting tastes around some kind of alcohol.”

“Not really. I enjoy a drink, sometimes, but I don’t see the point in being pretentious about it. Not that I’m saying you’re pretentious,” he clarifies hastily. “I’ve been to a few events where people sit around talking about how wine is completely undrinkable if it costs less than five hundred dollars a bottle.”

Zag snorts. “Yeah, that’s pretentious. Just because it’s expensive doesn’t mean it’s good. Just because it’s cheap doesn’t mean it’s bad. If you enjoy it, that’s all that matters.” Than nods vigorously, taking another hasty sip. “Is everything alright? You seem a bit off?”

“I’m fine. Good, even. Just a little nervous.”

“Why?” Zag asks softly, leaning forward to brush a strand of hair back behind Than’s ear.

Than glances down into the depths of his glass. “I want you to like me.”

“Have I given you any sign that I don’t?” Zag’s fingers curl under his chin, tipping his face gently upwards. “I know I was drunk and jealous when I said it, but I meant it. I like you for you, not for your fame or your body.”

Zag leans in, kissing him softly, his lips barely moving against Than’s. When he sits back, he’s smiling. Than can’t help but smile back, his lips still tingling from the sweetness of Zag’s kiss. “Thank you. I like you, too. I meant it when I said I’d date you, if things were different.”

“I know,” Zag murmurs, his mismatched eyes warm and yet somehow guarded. “So, tomorrow. There’s an islet called Tragonisi. The tender can take you there, you can snorkel and swim in some beautiful caves. It’s so peaceful, I think you’ll appreciate it.”

“Sounds great.” Than reaches out tentatively, draping his hand over Zag’s knee. “Will you be coming too?”

“I need to help the other stewards fix a few things. I left them alone this afternoon, I should help them tomorrow. And…” he sighs, shifting in his seat. “And I need to talk to the Captain.”

“Oh?” Than takes another gulp of wine, anxiety spiking through his chest at Zag’s tone.

“Anna guessed we snuck out together. She said we had the same smell, or something. I guess the body wash at the apartment was quite distinctive.” Zag’s eyes are nervous, like he’s afraid of Than’s reaction. “I’m sorry. I tried to brush it off, but I’m a pretty bad liar.”

“It’s okay. I guess someone was going to find out sometime. You trust her?” Than asks, trying to push the squirming anxiety down into his stomach. Zag’s hand slides over his own, nodding in response. “Why do you need to talk to the Captain?”

“He doesn’t like being blindsided,” Zag replies, sipping his wine calmly. “So it’s less likely he fires me if I go tell him before he hears from someone else.”

“Less likely? There’s a chance he’ll fire you?” Than raises his eyebrows, his mouth gaping open. He shuts it with enough force that his teeth click together loudly in the quiet room.

“Maybe. I hope not.” Zag looks uneasy, his shoulders creeping slowly upwards until he’s nearly hunching over his glass.

“I could talk to him. If it helps. I don’t want you to get fired because of me.”

“Thanks. I’ll let you know if I need you to do that. I love my job.” Zag manages a feeble smile.

Than weaves their fingers together, squeezing Zag’s hand reassuringly as he deliberately changes the subject. "What do you do between charters, Zag?"

"Stay with my mother. Help her in the garden, eat all her cooking and bring her good wine. I have three really close friends from school, we always get together for lunch or drinks when I'm home. Two of them are getting married soon. They've been together since school."

"You'll make it to the wedding?"

"Oh yeah, I wouldn't miss it for the world. I have a week booked off. Hoping I'll be able to do a little sailing if the weather is right."

Than can imagine Zag sailing, his strong, capable hands adjusting sails and navigating through the clear turquoise waters, his overlong hair whipping around his face in the breeze. "I've never tried sailing. I hike when I can, but most of the time I stay out of the public eye. A lot of my hobbies are indoor ones."

"You play anything other than the guitar?" Zag asks, gesturing at Than's empty glass.

"Let me," he stands, grabbing the bottle and pouring the wine carefully. "Yeah, I drum. I'm okay, not as good as most session drummers. I have been known to play the piano, but it doesn't really fit with the rock god image, so that's mostly something I do at home for pleasure."

"At home in the mountains?"

"Yeah. I have houses in a few other places but the mountain place is my favourite. I think I told you I hike a lot when I'm there, but I didn't tell you I also slob on the couch watching reality TV."

"Oh, I secretly love reality TV too. Gotta say, I can't imagine you slobbing out though," Zag grins.

"Yeah, give me some overblown semi scripted drama, some sweatpants and some potato chips and I'm very happy."

"You seen the selection we have on the yacht? There's this British show, Love Island, it's terrible but so addictive."

"Haven't seen that one. Want to watch it together?" Than asks, imagining Zag cuddled into his arms as they watch TV. The image is comfortingly cosy, almost domestic, bringing a squirming warmth to his belly.

"Yeah, that'd be nice. Want me to get you some chips?"

"Nah, I'm good. I ate a lot today."

"You can still have chips if you want them." Zag takes his hand and lifts it to his lips, brushing a kiss over Than’s knuckles.

"What I'd really like is to curl up on the bed with you."

Zag rises gracefully, his fingers still loosely entwined with Than's. "Come on, then. Which side is yours?"

Than follows him across the room to the bed. "I don't really have a side?"

"Oh, you're one of those people who sleeps in the middle, taking up all the space?" Zag shakes his head, an exaggeratedly disapproving expression on his handsome face. "I'll take the right side, then."

"Alright." Than watches him slip his shoes off before he clambers onto the bed, following him a moment later. He passes Zag the remote control. "Want to find the show for us? And can we cuddle?"

Zag takes the remote and turns the TV on, navigating the onboard system smoothly. "Than, we spent the afternoon fucking each other senseless, why are you asking me if we can cuddle? Of course we can cuddle."

"I didn't want to assume." He stretches his arm over Zag's shoulders, tucking him into his left side and dropping a quick kiss into his hair.

Zag presses a button on the remote before tossing it onto the bed beside him, snuggling close and wrapping an arm over Than's waist. He makes a contented little sound in the back of his throat as he burrows closer. "Mmm. Kiss me?"

Than looks down at his face, relaxed and comfortable in his arms. "Zag, we spent the afternoon fucking each other senseless, why are you asking me to kiss you?"

"Idiot," he laughs, pulling Than down towards him. Their lips meet, soft and lazy, exchanging gentle kisses that sparkle sweet and light. Zag rubs his nose against Than's, eyes blinking open to meet his. "It's starting. Want to watch?"

"Let's do it." Than tangles his legs with Zag's, eager to feel his whole body pressed against his own.

The show is brilliant, the contestants playing to the camera perfectly. Than finds himself flipping between focusing on the large TV mounted on the wall opposite the bed and delighting in the feeling of Zag lying in his arms.

"You smell nice," Zag mumbles, his chest rising and falling gently against Than's side.

"Thanks." Than rests his chin on the crown of Zag's head, hugging him as close as he can.

Time passes, Zag's arm slung tightly around his waist, his fingers trailing rhythmically over Zag's back. Eventually the episode ends, and Than finds himself eager to watch another, if only for the excuse to keep Zag close.

"Want to watch another episode?" he asks, nuzzling his lips in Zag's hair. He doesn't respond, his breathing deep and slow in the quiet room. "Zag?"

He mumbles something, shifting so his cheek is pillowed on Than's chest, his hand drifting up to drape over his deltoid. He's asleep, Than realises, peaceful in his slumber, cuddling close as if there's nowhere more comfortable to rest.

Than gropes carefully for the remote and turns the TV off. He allows himself five minutes, cradling Zag against his chest as he naps, brushing his hair away from his brow so he can look down at his sleeping face. He looks beautiful, cocooned in the tranquillity of his dreams. Than wonders what it would be like to wake up to Zag like this, watch him awaken slowly, naturally, his eyes blinking open. Would he groan, roll over and fall back asleep? Would he smile, cuddling closer for lazy morning kisses? He’s tempted to close his own eyes, drift off to sleep himself, find out in the morning, assuming Zag doesn’t wake up in the night. He imagines Zag’s panic, knowing he’s fallen into dreams somewhere he shouldn’t, wondering if the other stewards have noticed.

“Zag,” Than murmurs, dipping to brush kisses over his forehead, his eyelids, the bridge of his nose. “Zag, wake up.”

He stirs, sighing. Than kisses his lips, relieved when Zag kisses him back, slow and blurry. “Sorry… what time is it?”

“Not even midnight yet. You didn’t sleep long.” Than kisses him again, his lips drawn magnetically to Zag’s.

“I should go,” Zag breathes, his body contradicting his words as he clutches at Than’s shoulders, leaning into the kisses.

“Alright. Can we do this again sometime?”

“This as in, watch crappy TV, or this as in, me falling asleep on you?” Zag smiles, rolling upright and stretching his arms behind his head.

“Either. Both.” Than tries to subtly appreciate the strip of flat belly exposed as Zag's polo shirt rides up. The smirk that rises on his lips tells him he’s failed.

“See you in the morning, Than. No, it’s okay, don’t get up, I’ll let myself out.” Zag bends to kiss him once more, and then he’s gone, taking the empty wine bottle and the glasses with him.

Than snuggles down into the pillows, sighing happily, the bed beside him still warm.

“Than. Thanatos, are you even listening to me?”

“Sorry, must have water in my ear or something,” he replies, having precisely no idea what Hypnos just said.

Hypnos eyes his mostly dry hair and rolls his eyes. “I was saying, do you think you’d be up for a bit of shopping tomorrow? Mykonos has some good stores.”

“Yeah, sure Hyp, whatever you want.” Than dives beneath the glassy surface, letting the cool waters swallow him whole. When he surfaces, Hypnos is treading water, watching him despite the beautiful scenery around them. “You like Tragonisi?”

“It’s pretty. More your kind of thing than mine,” Hypnos replies, paddling slowly around him in a wide circle.

“It’s gorgeous.” Than rotates slowly in the water, keeping his brother centred in his vision. Tragonisi hadn’t looked like much from the tender, a sparse islet of yellow brown rock jutting out of the sea. They had navigated slowly to a sheltered cove, yellowish rock sloping abruptly up from the water to tower overhead, the waters calm enough that the tender barely bobbed when it came to a stop.

He and Hypnos have been swimming for about an hour now, and Tragonisi has revealed itself further with every kick of his feet through the water. The islet is punctured with caves and coves, the unending motion of the sea carving arches through faces of sheer golden rock and eroding cavernous spaces beneath sandy coloured stone ceilings. The water is so clear that Than can pick out the shape of the hibiscus flowers decorating Hypnos’ board shorts, the shimmering turquoise depths contrasting with the rich red fabric.

At breakfast, Zag had mentioned the possibility of seeing some seals, cautioning them that the route to their favourite cave was for experienced divers only. Tempting as the idea was, he and Hypnos had opted for a relaxing swim, leaving Meg and Charon to play on the jet skis for a few hours.

He wishes Zag was here with him, paddling lazily by his side through the arches, maybe finding a shady corner to exchange a quick kiss. He wonders how the conversation with Captain Poseidon is going, whether Zag still has a job. The thought of him not being there when Than and Hypnos return to the yacht is like a punch to the gut, guilt and loss mingling sharp in his belly.

“I’m happy you’re relaxing,” Hypnos says, eyes squinting slightly against the sun. “You seem a lot less on edge than you were on the way here. The Mediterranean suits you.”

Than suppresses a smirk at the irony. “Thanks. And thanks for setting this up, Hyp, I would never have thought of doing this for myself. Turns out you knew exactly what I needed. Thank you.” He smiles at his brother, grateful for a set of reasons he will never share.

“You’re welcome. We’re gonna have to talk about what you do next, though.” Hypnos turns in the water, drifting a little closer.

“What do you mean?” For a moment Than is certain that Hypnos knows about what has happened between him and Zag, a bolt of fear piercing his heart.

“Your deal. One more album, then we can renegotiate. You need to get back in the studio in the next few months, start recording.”

Than sighs, equal parts relief and annoyance, turning to float on his back. “I’d almost forgotten. Any chance we can do something a little different for this one?”

“Unlikely,” Hypnos’ voice is apologetic. “They want the usual, nothing too avant garde, nothing political. Get the last album written and recorded and we can negotiate a little more freedom in your next deal.”

“What if I don’t want another deal?” Than mumbles, watching a plane soar through the sky high above them, slicing a perfect white line through the searing blue.

Hypnos splashes him. “Come on. I know you question this life sometimes, but you’d miss it. No hanging out with the band, no performing, no money coming in. The grass is always greener, Than.”

“I guess.” Than rolls over, swimming slowly towards one of the natural arches in the rock face before him, Hypnos following.

“Focus on the album. Where d’you want to write this time?”

“How about I stay here for six months? I’m finding the Med pretty inspiring.”

“You wanna do an acoustic album, Than? Not sure the band will be happy to fly out here for six months, and I can’t imagine there are many session musicians out here.”

“London?”

“We’d have to go through the whole process of finding studio space, Charon would have to figure out somewhere secure for you and the band to stay, transport, build a local security team… Way too much effort. We should just go back to New York. The remodel’s done now, you can go straight back to your apartment and write.”

There’s no debating Hypnos’ logic. It would be far easier to go back to New York, hide out in his apartment and write until he has enough material to build an album around, working with his band and at the studio he considers a home from home. Except he doesn’t want to go back to New York. It’s a childish response, he knows, but he doesn’t want to leave Zagreus behind. More than Zag, he doesn’t want to leave himself behind. The past ten days have opened the door for a type of self acceptance he didn’t know he needed; the thought of heading back into the closet feels disingenuous, like his time in the Cyclades has been a transgression to be hidden away.

He might be tired of hiding, but he sees no other viable option.

“You’re right,” Than sighs. “We flying straight back once we leave the yacht?”

“Yeah. Three more nights, and then we’ll fly to New York, get back to work.”

“Alright. Three more nights,” Than murmurs, panic rising in his chest at the thought of leaving Zagreus forever. It feels like all he can do is make the most of the time they have left.

Three more nights, and then it’s over.

Chapter Text

Zag leans against the wall outside Captain Poseidon's office, feeling like a naughty schoolboy waiting for a conversation with the head teacher. Except this time, he hasn't been hauled here because he got caught in the middle of some stupidly forgettable prank. This time, he's here of his own volition, turning himself in because it's the right thing to do. Maybe this is what it's like to be a responsible adult.

Poseidon pops his head around the door, his thick beard appearing a beat before his face. "Zag, how can I help you?"

"Can I come in?"

"Of course, of course." Poseidon steps back into the cramped room, settling behind his desk, which is only slightly larger and less scuffed than Zag's. "Now, what can I do for my most senior steward? Enjoying your first charter in your new role?"

"Very much so, sir. I hope I'm stepping up to the challenge." Poseidon nods, a beaming smile taking over his face. "I'm not here as part of my duties, sir. I, um… I wanted to let you know of a development in relationships on board. As they relate to me specifically."

Poseidon's smile dims slightly. Zag shifts in his seat, feeling like he's trying to explain himself to the head teacher all over again. "Would this relate to one Thanatos?"

"Y-yes. We… that is to say, I… I kissed him. And we… there's something between us."

"There's been no juicier gossip amongst the crew these past few days, Zagreus," Poseidon chuckles. "Am I to assume that your relationship is growing more intimate?"

"Yes," Zag replies, his shoulders hunched up around his ears. "I thought it'd be best to tell you and ask your advice."

"My advice?" The Captain raises one bushy eyebrow, his gaze sharpening.

"Yeah. Should I resign, or do I need to… to stop things, or…"

"Let me ask you this. Is the intimacy between you consensual? You don't feel that you've been pressured into anything?"

"God no," Zag whispers, appalled. "Totally mutual, totally consensual. I like him. A lot."

"Alright then. As you know, the company discourages intimacy between clients and crew, as much for your protection as the company's. It does happen, however, and when it does I find it best to let it run its course."

"Sir?" Zag gulps, scarcely believing what he's hearing.

"It's fine, Zag. We wouldn't want to lose such a fine chief steward over a matter of the heart. Or other body parts, I don't need to know." Poseidon winks. "The biggest risk in these situations is that the client and the crew member fall out, which creates a conflict between the need to protect the crew and make the client happy. So long as you’re careful, and so long as your relationship doesn’t obstruct your duties, everything’s fine."

"Um, thank you," Zag murmurs, blood rushing to his face. "And… would it be alright if… I slept in his cabin? Not every night. But… when it makes sense." His face is tomato red, he's sure of it, and the thought of sleeping next to Than just makes him blush more.

"So long as you aren't neglecting your duties. I don't expect to see you swanning up the stairs with him to breakfast, for example. I expect to see you preparing for breakfast bright and early as usual."

"Wouldn’t dream of anything else, sir. That makes sense." Poseidon nods at him, laying his palms flat against the arms of his chair as if about to stand. "One last thing."

"Yes, Zagreus?"

"He's not out. The opposite, actually. And it would ruin his career and probably break him if the press found out he had a fling with a man."

"I assumed as much. Your crewmates will keep their mouths shut, as will I. You must care for him, if you're concerned about this news leaking?"

"Yeah, I do." Zag smiles weakly. "Not such that my care for him would get in the way of the job, though, of course."

"Of course, of course. Alright, Zag. I appreciate you coming to me with this. Let me know if there's anything I can do to help. Without compromising the requirements of the job."

"Thank you, sir. Honestly… thank you."

"Best get back to it, eh?" Captain Poseidon rises to his feet.

Zag scrambles upright, backing out of the office, repeating his thanks. He shuts the door quietly behind him, sagging against the wall, a ragged breath escaping his lungs. He takes a deep breath in, steeling himself before striding back towards the guest cabins.

"What did he say?" Daniel asks, dabbing paint on a tiny scuff on the wall in Than's cabin.

"He said it was fine. You were right. Did you steam the curtains yet?"

"Told you. No, not yet." Daniel places the paintbrush carefully onto the interior crew service cart, crossing the room and opening the window to let the smell dissipate. He pulls a fresh reed diffuser from the cart, replacing the one on the side table while Zag gets started on the drapes.

"Change the linen and then I'll vacuum on our way out?"

"Hmmm, sure you don't want to change the sheets yourself, Zag, since you know what's been done in them?" Daniel smirks.

Zag laughs, his body light with relief. “Alright, I'll do it. For the record, the sheets are unsullied, fresh as a daisy.”

“Oh, things fizzled out that quickly, did they? Surprising, I thought Thanatos was going to ask for your cock for breakfast this morning, the way he was looking at you.”

“Maybe they won’t be so fresh tomorrow morning,” Zag smirks, enjoying the ease of their relationship being somewhat out in the open as he strips the bed. “Last night we cuddled and watched TV.”

“Sorry, you’re telling me you were on this bed with a world famous rock star who’s been voted sexiest man alive at least three times and you just watched TV?” Daniel pushes the vacuum into place and turns to glare at him.

“We cuddled. There was some kissing involved too. I fell asleep on him.” Zag grins proudly.

“You…” Daniel scrubs at his face. “Zagreus. This is not how you seduce rock stars.”

“Seems to be working just fine with my rock star, thanks.” Zag stuffs the sheets into a laundry bag, grabbing a fresh set and getting to work. “Get going on the carpet, alright? They’ll be back soon.”

“Yes, boss.” Daniel throws him a mock salute and wrestles the machine into action.

They finish the rooms barely half an hour before Than and Hypnos return from Tragonisi. Thankfully the brothers decide to sit on the sun deck with Megaera and Charon, enjoying cocktails and skewered fresh fruit in the afternoon sun. Anna mixes the drinks while Zag and Daniel work through the laundry and inventory the interior team’s storage space.

Zag is just checking in with Chef when his phone chimes.

Received 18:00
Zag - would you mind bringing me a couple extra towels?

He texts back in the affirmative before glancing up at Chef. “I know hamburgers and fries aren’t very gourmet, but that’s what they want tonight. If you want to make it fancy I’m sure they won’t say no to truffle fries, or homemade relishes?”

Chef glowers at him, taking a peeled potato from a bowl of cool water and quickly chopping it into thin slivers.

“Or you could do matchstick fries, sure. I’m sure they’ll love it. Gotta go.”

He runs to the storage space and picks up a few different sizes of towels, just to be sure. He knocks on Than’s door, unlocking and opening it a beat before Than calls out for him to come through, walking down the hallway with a smile growing on his face.

“Hey, I brought you… wow.” Zag skitters to a stop outside the bathroom. The door is flung wide open, revealing Than standing in front of the double sinks, facing away from the hallway. He’s completely naked, brushing the tangles out of his long hair with long, methodical strokes, the shower already running. He catches Zag’s eye in the mirror, smirking as Zag’s eyes drift back down to his perfect peach of an ass. “Than, you have a gorgeous ass. Seriously.”

“Thanks.” Than places the hairbrush down and turns around. Zag swallows, eyes immediately drawn to his dick, already semi hard. He chuckles warmly. “Zag. Face is up here.”

It’s an effort to drag his eyes back up. “Sorry. You’re just… beautiful. Anyway, I brought the towels.”

“Great. Take your clothes off and get in the shower with me,” Than winks.

“I’m meant to be working.” Zag’s protests are half hearted, and from the smile on Than’s face, he knows it.

“You work so hard. I think you deserve a break. Let me take care of you a little.” Than steps in, winding his arms around Zag’s waist and pulling him closer, his cock pressing against his belly. Zag gazes helplessly up at him, already knowing he’s going to say yes. How can he possibly resist this man, his body a work of art almost as captivating as who he is inside?

Than’s face falls a little, misreading his expression. “If you’re busy, I understand. No pressure.”

“You convinced me.” Zag stretches up and kisses him, slipping his hand between their bodies to stroke Than’s cock. “How could I say no when you’re standing there looking at me like that, with this between your legs?”

Than laughs, smiling broadly as he tugs at the hem of his polo shirt. “Come on, I need you naked.”

It takes less than a minute for them to pull Zag’s clothes from his body, dropping them in an untidy heap on the bathroom floor before they stumble under the warm water, hands roving greedily over each other’s bodies. Than pulls away to pump some body wash into his hands, lathering it as his eyes trail slowly up and down Zag’s naked form. They wash each other slowly, kissing beneath the spray with the unspoken agreement that they’ll take their time. By the time Than turns off the water, they’re both rock hard and panting.

“There’s something I want to try,” Than says quietly, his tone hesitant.

Zag shivers, eager to please. “Yeah? Tell me. I’m pretty sure the answer’s yes.”

Than pulls him close, his skin warm and damp. He cups Zag’s ass with both hands, squeezing and kneading the flesh roughly enough that Zag can’t help but press forward, his desire stoked even hotter. “The first time I saw you, I noticed your ass. I wanted to touch it, like I’m touching it now. And I wanted…” He bites his lip.

“Go on,” Zag replies, thoroughly distracted by the sensation of Than’s cock dragging against his own.

“I wanted to spread you open and lick you,” Than breathes, his cock pulsing against Zag’s.

“Fuck. Yes. Obviously yes.” Zag pants, rolling his hips up as best he can. “How did you imagine it?”

“On the bed. You kneeling over me. Maybe while you suck my cock, if you so wish.”

“You know I so wish. Come on.” Zag drags him to the bedroom, pushing him enthusiastically down onto the fresh sheets. He takes a moment to drape himself over Than’s body, kissing him hard, trying to let him know how desirable and desired he is, worshipping his lips with the deepest of kisses.

He turns, bracketing Than’s waist with his thighs and shuffling backwards carefully. “Like this?”

Than grabs his ass again, fingers gripping him tight. “Yeah, like this.” He pulls Zag’s hips downwards, his tongue swiping luxuriantly over his entrance, dragging a soft moan from Zag’s throat. The sound makes him bolder, the flat of his tongue stroking over the tight muscle again and again.

“Oh, Than,” Zag whispers, trying not to press down too hard. “Fuck, your tongue.” The praise seems to embolden him, the tip of his tongue circling his rim delicately. It feels incredible, not least because Zag has the very finest view of just how much Than is enjoying the act, his dick rock hard within easy grasp.

Zag reaches out, stroking him from root to tip, feeling the vibrations of his answering moans against his entrance. Than presses a kiss over the quivering muscle before his tongue dips inside.

Zag chokes off the cry that builds in his mouth, focusing his attention on the beautiful cock in front of him. It’s clear that their height difference is going to stop him from sucking Than’s cock properly in this position. He keeps stroking Than’s length, thighs starting to tremble as Than licks into him with more and more enthusiasm. The wet sounds of Than eating him out add to the deep pleasure building and tightening in his core.

“Fuck, why are you so tall?” Zag groans. Than’s chest shudders beneath him, the breathiness of his laughter tickling Zag’s hole. “I want you deep in my throat. Want to switch positions?”

Than responds by sliding his tongue as deep inside him as he can. Zag slaps a hand over his own mouth, hips moving of their own volition to encourage Than to lick into him faster.

“Than.” He doesn’t stop, his chest vibrating with a groan of pleasure of his own. “Than.” He still doesn’t stop, lost in the moment, driving Zag closer to orgasm with every sloppy kiss, with every thrust of his tongue. “Than!” Zag cries. “Please, let me suck your cock, please, please.”

Than loosens his grip, letting Zag twist down onto the sheets beside him. He shuffles into position, encouraging Than to roll onto his side with a firm tug on his hip until his cock is perfectly positioned for Zag’s lips.

“You want to suck me while I suck you?” Zag murmurs, eyes flickering briefly from the delicious looking length before him to meet Than’s amber eyes, taking a moment to appreciate the sheen of saliva on his lips along the way.

“It’ll keep us both quiet, so yes,” Than smirks, propping himself up on one arm and leaning forward, sliding Zag’s cock into his mouth.

Zag reciprocates, barely bothering to tease the head before he swallows as much of Than’s dick as he can. They curl into each other, mouths and throats working steadily. Zag grabs Than’s hip, pulling and pushing it to encourage Than to thrust deeper into his throat, making a conscious effort to keep his own thrusts shallow and careful into Than’s eager mouth.

Than pushes his head forwards, trying to take Zag as deep as he can, almost gagging as he does. Zag releases his cock from his mouth with a moan. “You don’t need to try to deepthroat me, do whatever you’re comfortable with. I’m so close anyway, you’re so fucking hot… do you want me to come in your mouth?”

Than nods as best he can with a mouthful of cock, his lips glistening as they move up and down Zag’s length. Zag pitches forward, swallowing Than until the head of his dick bumps the back of his throat, mirroring the desperate movements of Than’s hips with his own.

Holding back his own orgasm as he worships Than is the sweetest agony. He breathes shallowly, focusing on Than’s pleasure even as he marvels at how perfect Than’s mouth feels around him.

It’s Than who comes first, flooding Zag’s throat as his climax takes him. Zag swallows hungrily, throbbing electricity folding and tightening low in his abdomen until he follows, his pleasure drawn out by the breathy, messy suction of Than’s mouth as he drinks down everything Zag gives him.

They collapse onto their backs, panting and exhausted. Zag turns his head, kissing Than’s hip gently, stroking his thigh.

“Come here,” Than rasps, his voice rough and satiated.

Zag turns himself the right way up, flopping gracelessly over Than’s chest. “Hi.”

“Hi, yourself. Can I kiss you?”

Zag nods, tipping his face up to receive Than’s tender offering. “You’re so good with your mouth, Than. Felt incredible.”

“Mmm. I want to do that again.” Than nuzzles into his hair.

“Give me an hour and I’ll be ready,” Zag quips, tightening his arms around Than’s chest and appreciating the rumbling laughter beneath his cheek.

They cuddle in the afterglow for a few golden minutes before Zag remembers that he does, in fact, have a job to do. He disentangles himself from Than’s arms, leaning down to kiss him once more before struggling upright. “Need to get back to work, Than. You better make yourself presentable for dinner, too.”

Than groans, scrubbing at his face before rolling over to catch Zag’s gaze. “Can’t I just have dinner here? Preferably something I can eat off your naked body?”

“I heard you wanted burgers tonight, so that’s not going to work,” Zag grins, ducking out of the room and into the bathroom to clean up and get dressed. Than follows, stretching his arms above his head, the motion drawing his chiselled abs tight. “Stop trying to tempt me into staying with that body, Than.”

Than smiles at him warmly, slapping his ass playfully before filling the sink to wash his face.

When Zag is dressed in his uniform, Than helps him straighten the collar of his polo shirt, his white robe rolled up over his forearms. “See you at dinner?”

“Yeah, see you at dinner. Oh, and I forgot to mention because I was so thoroughly distracted… I spoke to the Captain,” Zag says, stepping around Than and walking out of the bathroom into the hallway. Than follows, trailing him as he walks towards the suite’s door. “He said so long as we’re discreet, and our relationship doesn’t get in the way of my duties, it’s fine. So… we’re fine. And I still have my job.”

“I should have asked, I’m sorry,” Than murmurs, wrapping Zag in a tight hug. “I’m happy you still have your job. And selfishly happy we don’t have to stop.”

“Me too,” Zag mumbles, his face pressed tight against his chest. He feels so safe in Than’s arms, warmth blooming on his skin where Than’s hands hold him close. He could imagine stepping into Than’s arms every day, quick hugs goodbye in the morning and long, relaxed embraces at night. If only things were different, and they weren’t doomed to be wrenched apart in only a few days’ time.

Zag’s heart sinks. He extricates himself from Than’s arms, stepping back and opening the outer door.

“Hey. One last kiss?” Than tugs him back into the dimly lit hallway, letting the door shut behind him.

Their lips meet, sweet and grateful, moving slowly together in perfect synchronicity, a taste of what they could have but ultimately won’t.

Zag smiles sadly, opening the door and stepping through, Than staying in the shadows behind him.

Hypnos sits on one of the plush chairs in the salon area, facing the door to Than’s cabin. Zag’s heart stutters, his hand flying to his chest. He catches himself before he staggers with shock.

“Zagreus,” Hypnos says, his voice cold and disapproving.

Behind him, Zag hears the door swing open, the soft pad of Than’s feet crossing the threshold.

“Thanatos,” Hypnos adds, standing in one smooth motion and prowling towards them. “I think we need to talk.”

Chapter Text

Than grabs Zag’s elbow, tugging him back down the hallway towards the bedroom, Hypnos following silently behind them. He steps into the bedroom first, hastily tugging the sheets into some semblance of order, conscious that regardless of his efforts, the fabric is rumpled enough to tell a story. He sits on the edge of the bed, Zag dropping to sit beside him, leaving a careful gap between them. They both choose to sit primly upright, their hands placed carefully by their sides. 

Hypnos glances at the bed, rolls his eyes and drops into the armchair in the corner. Icy cold fear drips down Than's spine, contrasting with the warmth of Zag's hand next to his. 

“So,” Hypnos sighs, leaning forward to rest his elbows on his knees. “Want to tell me what’s going on?”

“Thanatos, Hypnos, maybe I should leave you to talk in private?” Zag murmurs, his professional voice in full effect.

“You should stay, Zagreus.” Hypnos’ tone is clipped, enough so that Than knows there’s a storm brewing beneath his calm exterior. “It seems to me that Zagreus disappeared into your room about an hour ago, Than. I thought that was strange, but you’ve become friends, perhaps you were chatting. And then Zagreus steps out of your room, with damp hair and his polo shirt all wrinkled.” Than winces as Hypnos’ voice trembles. “And you pull him back inside for, and I quote, ‘one last kiss’. So tell me. What’s going on, how long has it been going on, and did you two even stop to think about the risk?” 

Hypnos slumps back into the chair, thumb and forefinger rubbing at his temples as he takes a deep, calming breath.

Than turns to look at Zag, noting the red flush creeping across the bridge of his nose. Zag evidently feels the weight of his gaze, turning to glance up at him, throwing him a supportive half smile. Your call, it seems to say, giving Than the option to share as much or as little as he wants. 

“Hypnos, I’ve been hiding part of myself for years,” Than begins, heat rising to his face, an exposed, vulnerable hollowness aching in his chest. “I’m bi. I think I was thirteen when I first realised I liked boys as well as girls. I was ashamed, and I hid it, never did anything about that part of myself. I always thought that when I left home, I’d get the chance to be more open about it. And then I sang at that wedding and I got signed. You know the rest, first few years with the handler until I realised how deeply the label’s claws were in my neck, renewed my contract with you as my manager. Finally felt a little bit safe again.”

“I remember,” Hypnos says softly. “Everyone told you having your inexperienced brother as your manager wouldn’t help you. You said…”

“I said my inexperienced brother had my back in ways the label never would. And you said…”

“I said you could trust me with everything. Seems like you didn’t agree.” Hypnos looks away.

Than sighs. Zag’s hand creeps closer on the bed between them, his little finger stretching out to nudge Than’s. “I never told anyone, Hyp. Everything happened so fast, I tried to bury it. Sure, I met men I was attracted to sometimes, but it was never a problem. Until…”

“Until I booked you twelve nights on a luxury yacht with a chief steward who’s gay and apparently exactly your type.”

“Bi, too, actually,” Zag interjects. His flush deepens, glancing at Than and then Hypnos. “Sorry. Doesn’t matter.”

“It does matter. Zag and I were chatting and he just told me he was bi like it was nothing. It was amazing. Partly because I’m attracted to him, obviously, but also because he was just so… comfortable. Self confident. Like his sexuality isn’t something to be hidden or ashamed of.” Than swallows the lump in his throat.

“Your sexuality shouldn’t be something to hide or be ashamed of, Than,” Hypnos murmurs, sitting forward in his chair. “I’m so sorry you felt that way. Feel that way.”

Zag mumbles his agreement, sliding his hand boldly over Than’s and interlacing their fingers.

“So, yeah. Zag gave me the space to finally acknowledge that part of myself, Hyp. I told him I was bi too, we got closer, and then…” 

“We tried to stop it, Hypnos. We really did.” Zag squeezes his hand reassuringly. 

They lapse into silence. Hypnos closes his eyes, the slightly dreamy expression he wears when he’s deep in thought drifting over his face. Than untangles his fingers from Zag’s, flipping his hand so they’re holding hands properly, palm to palm, fingers woven tightly together. 

“Alright. Alright. If I’m honest, Than, I always knew there was something you were hiding from me. I figured you’d tell me in time, and now you have. I’m glad for that. And if I’m honest, I knew you two were getting closer beyond what I’d expect for a platonic relationship. So what now?” Hypnos looks to Than, then Zag, then their entwined hands resting on the bed.

“We have a few nights left on the yacht, Hyp,” Than begins, his heart sinking as he remembers how his imminent departure looms over them. “Now you know, can we just enjoy the time we have left?”

“Sounds reasonable. Just promise me you won’t do anything stupid like, I dunno, go hiking and kiss each other at some famous beauty spot where there are always tourists taking photos of each other?” Hypnos flashes him a small, supportive smile. 

“Yeah. I think we can manage that,” Than smiles. “Thanks for understanding.”

“I love you, Than. Your happiness is important to me, and I’ll always accept you for who you are. Zagreus, would you mind leaving us? There are a few other things I need to discuss with my brother.” 

“Of course, Hypnos. See you both at dinner in an hour.” Zag stands, reluctantly releasing Than’s hand and casting a warm smile in his direction before he leaves the room.

Hypnos waits for both the bedroom door and the cabin door to close before he opens his mouth again. “You care about him?”

“I do. I really do, Hyp. More than I should.” 

“Do you care about him enough to want this relationship to continue? Even if it costs you your career?” 

“It doesn't matter. He has a life here. He loves nature and being outside, spending time with his friends and his mother on Paros,” Than replies, his breath catching in his chest at the painful reality of his words.

“I get the feeling that hurts you more than you’re admitting, Than.” Hypnos rises, crossing to sit beside his brother, slinging an arm around his shoulders. “You’ve been happier the past few days than I’ve seen you in a while. Enjoy it, okay? You deserve a bit of freedom, a bit of carefree happiness. Enjoy it.”

"I will," Than replies, leaning into his brother's embrace.

"What do you want to do about Meg and Charon? They need to know, professionally speaking at least. Charon would want to help you, you know that." 

"I'll tell them at dinner? When the stewards have left us to eat, obviously." 

"Sure. Look, I know you're not all that into shopping. How about Meg, Charon and I shop tomorrow and you and Zagreus can spend the day together? Assuming he's allowed. Does the Captain know?"

"Yeah, Zag talked to him this afternoon. The crew gossip, and apparently they noticed something was going on." 

"Guess we'll see how far their discretion stretches, right? So, tomorrow?"

"I like your plan," Than says, warmth blooming in his chest at the idea of a day spent alone with Zag without the oiliness of needing to sneak around. "I'll ask Zag to plan something for us. As far from the public eye as possible." 

The next morning, Than steps onboard the yacht's tender, dressed in cropped cotton pants and a long sleeve white t-shirt, a denim jacket draped over his arm. He has no idea what the day will hold, trusting Zag to arrange everything, his only request being that Than brings a jacket with him. 

He takes a seat next to Zag, squeezing his knee quickly as the first officer prepares to take them to shore. It feels wonderful to be a little more open about their relationship, although he's careful to take his cue from Zag. After all, he'll continue to work with the crew of the Agape Mou after Than leaves. Than glances around the tender, eager to distract himself from the thought of leaving. 

Two days and two nights left. 

Megaera catches his eye, tossing him a soft smile. Her reaction to the news had not been what Than had expected. 

Than smiled distractedly as one of the stewards placed his plate before him, a juicy burger encased in a golden brown bun set at the centre. A bowl of crispy matchstick fries appeared beside the plate, tiny dishes of relish and flaky sea salt joining the platter of sliced tomatoes, gherkins and lettuce at the centre of the table. His stomach rumbled softly, mouth watering at the sight of the food before drying as he remembered the truths he needed to spill before they ate.

The stewards melted away, leaving the group alone. Hypnos sat opposite him, Charon to his left. Beside Than, Meg grabbed a few fries from her own bowl, stuffing them into her mouth and sighing appreciatively. 

"Hey, listen, I need to talk to you guys," Than began. 

"Talk as much as you like, so long as I can keep eating these fries," Meg mumbled, dipping her fingers into the dish of sea salt. 

He swallowed, steeling himself. "I'm bisexual. I've hidden it my entire life. I thought I'd hide it forever, but I…" He stopped, taking a deep breath. 

Meg turned to face him. "You met Zagreus and there's something there and you can't hide any more." 

Than's mouth had dropped open in surprise. Over the table, Charon rumbled something that sounded like "you win", pushing his bowl of fries over the table towards Meg. 

"We suspected. Charon thought you'd fess up earlier," Meg said softly, leaning over to give him a brief sideways hug. "I'm happy you're happy, Than."

It had been a much easier conversation than he could have imagined or hoped for. 

"So, we go shopping, Zag takes you wherever he's taking you, and we meet up later, right?" Hypnos asks as the tender moves away from the yacht. "Charon, you double checked Zag's plan, right?"

"Fine. Good plan," Charon states, a rare smile touching his lips. 

"Thanks, mate," Zag murmurs, smiling back. 

The tender drops them off at the harbour. Hypnos, Charon and Meg hop into a black SUV, on their way to Mykonos’ most exclusive shopping district. Than turns to Zag, maintaining a careful distance between them even though he would like nothing more than to touch him casually, as if Zag were really his. “Where are we going, Zag?”

“You up for another boat?” Zag asks, his smile so wide that his teeth shine in the morning sunlight.

“Yeah, but will you tell me where it’s taking us?”

“Nah. When we get there, okay? You trust me?”

“I trust you. Lead the way.”

Zag walks them through the harbour, turning to walk down a wide jetty towards a sleek black boat, the kind that looks like it’s built for speed above all else. He calls out in Greek, nodding at the shouted response and showing Than towards a metal cabinet filled with life vests alongside the boat. He helps Than shrug the red material over his shoulders, locking and tightening the straps for him with a slight smirk before donning one himself. 

“This is a rigid inflatable boat, Than, known as a rib. They can go really fast, fast enough that they skip over the water. You okay with that?” Zag leads him over to the boat, bobbing gently in the water. Than nods, following Zag onto the boat and taking a seat beside him. “You’ll need to hold on once we get out of the harbour. It’ll get bumpy.”

The Captain finishes his task at the back of the boat, walking forward to the wheel, asking Zag a question in rapid Greek as he passes. Zag laughs, replying equally rapidly. “What did he say?” Than whispers, wishing he could understand Zag’s native language.

“Asked if we were ready, and if you were likely to be sick," Zag grins. “I said you’d be fine, and that if you were sick I’d make sure you didn’t fall overboard.”

“Thanks, I guess?” Than replies, sincerely hoping his breakfast stays in his stomach where it belongs.

The boat leaves the harbour, accelerating quickly as soon as it clears the other boats until it skips over the waves, the drone of the engine incredibly loud in Than’s ears. The wind screams as it batters them, threatening Than’s baseball cap momentarily before Zag reaches across and tugs it off, tucking it carefully in the backpack at his feet. Than smiles at him, his hair whipping across his face as they speed across the deep blue water, leaving Mykonos behind. 

If the jetski felt like flying, free as a bird, the rib boat is like soaring high overhead, a bird of prey swooping through the air so fast his stomach thrills with the movement.

Eventually another island appears on the horizon, the boat slowing the larger it grows. Another harbour appears, this one smaller and little less polished than the one at Mykonos, and they glide smoothly alongside another jetty, the Captain cutting the engines and riding the waves into place. He jumps onto the wooden boards while the rib is still moving, beginning the process of tying his boat so naturally that Than can only imagine how many times he’s docked here.

Zag passes Than his cap and ushers him off the boat. “Welcome to Paros, Than.”

“Your home island? You brought me home?” Than asks, his heart soaring like the rib over the water.

“Yeah. I hope it’s not too much,” Zag blushes slightly. “From here, we pick up a rental car and drive. I’m taking you to my mother’s house. Not to meet her,” he clarifies hurriedly, responding to Than’s raised eyebrows. “She’s out for the day. I wanted to take you somewhere for lunch, somewhere you can relax and be happy without worrying about the press or other people. Couldn’t think of anywhere better than Mama’s garden.”

“God, I really want to kiss you right now,” Than murmurs, the lightness in his heart compacting and growing heavy with gratitude, unable to stop himself reading too much into the gesture.

“Twenty minutes and you can kiss me all you like.” Zag grins, leading him over to a tiny kiosk in the harbour car park. 

The smooth tarmac roads give way to cracked, dusty concrete after a little while, Zag driving them confidently through a landscape of rich sienna ground dotted with dark green shrubs. The road climbs upwards, trees and plants springing up in a lush tangle the higher they go. Eventually they pull up outside a whitewashed cottage, surrounded by grass and vegetation, a man made sanctuary cradled in the hands of nature. 

“This is where you grew up? It’s beautiful.” Than climbs out of the car, closing the door and leaning against it, taking in the view.

“Yeah. Lucky me, right? Don’t be fooled, it takes a lot of work. I always had dirt under my nails when I was a kid.” Zag grabs his hand, tugging him away from the car. “Come on. Stop lounging against the car looking all sexy and moody and cool.”

“I look moody?” Than laughs, following Zag as he opens the front door.

“Nah, but you do look sexy and cool,” Zag winks. “Don't expect too much, alright? It’s pretty small. Kitchen and living room down here, two bedrooms and a bathroom upstairs.”

“It's gorgeous. Do I get to see your childhood bedroom?” Than asks, taking in the cosily decorated cottage. The walls are painted cream, in contrast with the bright white exterior, warmed up with a profusion of plants in colourful pots. The living room is dominated by a big, squashy sofa in cobalt blue, and the kitchen cabinets are painted a warm terracotta.

"If you want," Zag does a happy little dance as he yanks the fridge open, free and unrestrained. “She made pomegranate lemonade. Oh, Than, you’re going to love it.”

“Didn’t you make Hypnos and I pomegranate lemonade when we went to the beach a few days ago?”

“Yeah, but mine isn’t half as good as hers, seriously. Want to explore the garden while I make lunch?” Zag pours two glasses of pale pink lemonade, putting the jug back into the fridge before pulling out a selection of vegetables and paper wrapped parcels. “I’m gonna make Greek salad. Oh my god. She made spanakopita. We’re gonna feast like kings.”

“Show me the garden later. I want to watch you cook.” Than pulls a chair out from underneath the table, turning it around to face into the kitchen and taking a seat.

“This isn’t cooking, but sure. Hey, if you feel under the table, you’ll find a Z I carved there when I was a kid. Mama still doesn’t know it’s there.” 

Than runs his fingers carefully under the lip of the table, feeling for the Z and imagining a messy haired boy digging a knife into the wood when he thinks his mother isn’t watching, barely able to hide his mischievous smile. He watches Zag flit around the kitchen, turning the oven on to warm the spanakopita, chopping vegetables and piling them into a bowl, dashing out of the back door and returning with two gigantic tomatoes.

“Smell,” he says, shoving the tomatoes under Than’s nose. They’re incredibly aromatic, the sun baked scent filling his lungs and relaxing his shoulders. Zag takes them across the kitchen to the chopping board, returning almost immediately with a glass of lemonade. “Taste.”

Than takes an obedient sip. “Mmm, that’s good. Tastes very similar to yours, though. Slightly more… delicious. Can’t quite explain why.”

“There’s more in the fridge if you want it,” Zag says, downing his own glass. “Can I just say… this is really nice. More normal than sneaking around on the yacht. I’m happy you’re here.”

“I’m happy you brought me here. I think you promised me kissing, though.”

“Let me just finish the salad, and then I’m all yours for ten minutes while the spanakopita heats through.” Zag unwraps a block of crumbly feta, sprinkling it over the salad before returning the remains to the fridge. “Okay, done.”

“Get over here,” Than grins, spreading his arms wide.

Zag doesn’t waste any time, straddling Than on the chair and kissing him sweetly, his fingers sliding into his hair. Than wraps his arms around him, cuddling him close and kissing him back lazily, enjoying the luxury of knowing they won’t be interrupted. 

They kiss gently, slowly, holding each other tightly without turning the embrace too sultry. Warmth sparkles effervescent in Than's blood, the simple joy of being held breaking into tingles over his scalp. 

Zag presses closer, his fingers gripping tightly into Than's hair. He tilts his head, licking deeper into Than’s mouth, a low rumble of pleasure sounding in his throat.

Than breaks the kiss, stroking both palms up and down his back. “Don’t get carried away. If you burn the spanakopita, I’ll never forgive you.”

Zag laughs, kissing the end of Than’s nose and springing upright. “Okay, sir, I’ll get right to it.” He grabs some oven gloves and grabs the tray of pastry squares, setting them to the side to cool.

“You know, when you call me sir, it does something to me,” Than winks, watching as Zag arranges plates, bowls and silverware on a tray.

“Mm, noted for future reference, sir,” Zag beams. “There’s a blanket in that cupboard, grab it for me?”

They spread the fuzzy red blanket out on the lush green grass outside the kitchen door, transferring the plates and bowls from the tray. Than sits down, stretching his legs out and enjoying the delicate warmth of the sun on his face as he waits for Zag to return with the rest of their lunch.

Chapter Text

“Oh god, Zag, that was amazing,” Than groans, rubbing his full stomach and flopping back onto the blanket. “I ate too much. That spanakopita was the best thing I’ve ever tasted.”

“I’m happy you enjoyed it, Than.” Zag stacks the crumb laden plates onto the tray and finishes his glass of lemonade, enjoying the expression of pure contentment on Than’s beautiful face. “Too full for a hug?”

Than rolls his eyes, sitting up to grab Zag’s shoulders, pulling him down onto the blanket beside him. “Thank you. You spoil me.”

“Only as much as you deserve to be spoiled,” Zag mumbles, kissing him gently.

They lie side by side for a while, exchanging kisses and gazing into each other’s eyes. When all that remains unspoken begins to sit too heavily on his chest, Zag kisses Than sweetly on the cheek and sits up again, pulling his head into his lap. He runs his fingers through the platinum blonde strands trailing over his thighs, loosening a few errant tangles and appreciating the silky texture against his skin.

Than very nearly purrs, capturing Zag’s hand and bringing it to his lips, his eyes drifting closed. “Thank you, Zag. Gorgeous lunch, gorgeous company, gorgeous setting.”

Zag gazes down at his face. Than looks so relaxed, lazing on the blanket with a belly full of food, away from prying eyes. He could almost imagine bringing him here regularly for lunch with his mother, could almost feel the nerves that would roil in his stomach if he were to watch them getting to know each other. Whatever this thing is between them, it feels like it could be so much more than a fling, if their lives weren’t so incredibly different as to be incompatible. He brushes his fingertips over Than’s cheekbone, smiling when Than fits his hand gently over Zag’s, nuzzling into his palm.

“You make me feel so good, Zag. I wish we could stay here forever.” Than’s voice turns dreamy, his breathing evening out as he dozes in the warm sunshine.

Zag strokes his hair, watching his chest rise and fall peacefully as a jasmine tinged breeze blows softly through the garden, multitudinous leaves sighing and swaying as it passes. It’s ironic, he thinks. After years of pushing love to the bottom of his to-do list, he finds someone he could so easily fall in love with in the last place he expected, and the situation makes it impossible for them to even consider being together.

One and a half days, two nights, and then it’s over. The thought sours the sweetness left in his mouth by the pomegranate lemonade and Than's affection. He glances up at the endless blue sky, trying to be thankful for what he has in the moment.

He lets Than snooze for an hour. He lets himself pretend Than is his, fingers stroking possessively over his hair, his cheek, his jaw as he naps.

"Hey," he murmurs, bending to kiss Than's nose. "Time to wake up."

His amber eyes blink open, squinting against the light. He focuses on Zag, a soft smile spreading over his lips as his eyelids drift shut again. He turns onto his side, snuggling against Zag's belly with a contented sigh.

"Than," Zag giggles, enchanted. "My legs went to sleep ages ago. Wake up."

"Don't want to wake up," Than mumbles.

Zag lifts his upper body carefully, ignoring his grumbling as he lowers his head gently to the blanket. Legs freed, he lies down facing him, pressing his lips to Than's in the lightest of kisses. "Wake up? For me?"

Than shuffles closer, eyes remaining stubbornly closed. He pulls Zag close and kisses him, his tongue dipping lazily between his lips. Their kisses are languid and dream like, sensuous and unhurried, as if time has stopped just for them. Eventually Than rolls on top of him, sighing into his mouth as their bodies press together. Zag goes to swat at his ass, surprised when Than catches his hand in mid air to tangle their fingers, pinning Zag's arm above his head.

"Than, we're not having sex at my mother's house," Zag pants, conscious of his hips trying to twitch upwards against Than’s weight.

"What about in your mother's garden?" Than whispers, opening his eyes to reveal pupils already dilated with need.

"Not in my mother's garden either." Zag’s rational brain just about retains control over the part of him that wants to be ravished on the blanket in the sunshine. "Later, okay?"

"Alright," Than sighs, kissing him sweetly and rolling off him. He drags himself upright and offers Zag his hand. "Let's clear up. And then there was talk of seeing your childhood bedroom?"

Zag takes his hand, letting Than haul him upright and into another dazzling kiss. “Yeah, if you really want to, I guess I can let you see all the embarrassing photos of me and my friends when we were teenagers.”

Than stoops, grabbing the dish laden tray as Zag picks up the glasses. “When you put it like that, how can I say no?”

They take the dishes into the kitchen, Zag filling the sink with water while Than heads back into the sunshine to retrieve the blanket. Despite Zag’s protests, Than stands beside him to help with the dishes, drying each item meticulously and following his vague directions to return each plate, bowl and glass to its home in the cheerfully painted kitchen cupboards.

“Come on then, let’s go laugh at teenage Zag who thought he was edgy.” Zag takes Than’s hand and leads him up the stairs and into his room. “I still stay here when I’m on leave, so it’s not exactly like it was when I lived here full time. I took down the posters and stuff. Might even have been one of you up there at some point.”

“Really? Than smiles hesitantly. “I can’t tell if that’s cute or a little weird. It’s strange, I don’t want to have existed for you before we met. Is that strange?”

“Nah, I get it,” Zag replies, sitting on the narrow single bed and watching Than take in the space. “You want me to like you for you. Which I do, just for the record.”

“I like you too.” Than sounds distracted, leaning over to look at the objects lined up on one of the wooden shelves. “Oh wow, you have a Mort!”

“Oh, yeah, I forgot about him.” Zag crosses the room and picks up the small plush mouse. “Guess that’s the idea that you didn’t exist for me before we met, ruined. He was on the cover of your third album, right? The soft toy version was a freebie at the midnight launch. I might have lined up most of the afternoon to buy my copy.”

“He’s pretty rare nowadays. Don’t think the label used the best quality manufacturer in the world. I’m told they go for a small fortune online.” Than reaches out and pats the toy gently between his oversized yellow ears. “God, this brings back some memories. Did you know his design is based on a doodle I used to scrawl all over my notebooks?”

Zag takes Than’s hand, placing Mort carefully on his palm. “Take him. He belongs with you. Let’s say I was looking after him for you, all these years.”

“Thank you.” Than’s voice is thick as he strokes the mouse’s soft grey fabric. He coughs, turning his gaze to the pinboard on the wall. “Now, you promised me photos, right? Ah, edgy teenage Zag. Blonde spiky hair, huh.”

Zag follows Than’s gaze to a photo tucked into the corner. “Yeah, I think that colour is better described as yellow. I tried to bleach it, but my hair’s so dark I couldn’t get it any lighter. It felt like straw by the time I was done with it, and the roots looked pretty bad when they grew back in.”

“Not your best look. Wow, are those red contacts? And a spiked collar?”

“Yeah. I wanted to look different. I hoped I’d get a reaction from my mother, but she’s so easy going I was disappointed. I grew the bleach out and threw away the contacts. Still have the collar somewhere.”

“Hmm.” Than glances at him speculatively before turning back to the pinboard. “This your dad?”

“Yup, that’s the old man.” Zag leans forward, pulling the pin out of the photo and tugging it free. His father is wearing a business suit, his beard neatly trimmed and professional, hands resting on Zag’s shoulders. “I was maybe eleven in this photo? Just before they separated and we moved here.”

“The way he’s looking down at you, it’s so clear he loves you.”

“He did. He does. Just struggles to show it, sometimes. He isn’t the most emotionally available person in the world. You never mentioned your own father?”

“I don’t know who he is. My mom raised us alone. Hypnos and I are twins, we have the same dad. Charon is our half brother technically, not that it matters in practice. It was hard for her, raising us without any support. But we had each other. I’m happy we’re still so close.”

“You’re lucky. I always wanted a brother or a sister.”

“Well, you can have mine any day. I love them, but they drive me crazy sometimes.” Than gestures at another photo. “Are these the friends you mentioned?”

“Evgenis, Angelina and Miltos,” Zag points them out, smiling as he remembers the afternoons they spent in the pool at Miltos’ parents’ house. “I think Miltos’ sister took this photo. When it was really hot we’d run to Miltos’ house after school and jump into their pool, play silly games. We stopped when we got a little older, hung out at the beach instead.”

“Which are the two who are getting married?”

“Evgenis and Angelina. They’ve been together since we were fifteen. Their families are Greek Orthodox, but Evgenis and Angelina aren’t really religious, so they’re having a civil ceremony with some of the traditional elements. Miltos and I are both best man, and Angelina’s sisters are bridesmaids. There are a lot of traditions we’ll help with, like I’ll shave Evgenis' face on the big day, and Miltos will deliver Angelina’s shoes. They asked us both to be godparents to their first born already.”

“Sounds like a lot of responsibility.” Than turns to face him, reaching out to take his hand.

“It is, but I would do anything for them. And they would do anything for me. Couldn’t ask for better friends,” Zag smiles, warmth lifting his heart at the thought of them. “Seen all the embarrassing photos you can handle?”

“For now,” Than says, a teasing lilt in his voice. “How much time do we have?”

“A little while yet. The yacht’s coming to meet us here, they should dock in about an hour if all goes to plan. The Captain was betting your brothers and Meg would only want a few hours of shopping before they came back, I asked him to text me when they were half an hour away.”

“The yacht's coming here? So I get to see more of Paros tomorrow?” Than’s face breaks into a hopeful smile like the sun bursting out from behind the clouds.

“Yep, I thought a couple of days on Paros would be a good way to finish your trip. I have a few ideas, if you trust me,” Zag smirks, suppressing the desire to spoil the surprises he has lined up.

“Of course I do. Can I make plans for tomorrow night, though?” Than steps closer, letting go of Zag’s hand and cupping his jaw gently.

“Sure. I can help if you need it.”

“I’ll ask Daniel and Anna. I want to surprise you for our last night together.” An apologetic smile flits across Than’s lips.

A flash of panic rips through Zag’s chest with the reminder that their time together is drawing to a close. It feels like an injustice, finding Than only to have life rip them apart so quickly. “Can we not talk about the last anything right now?” He asks, pressing his cheek against Than’s chest and wrapping his arms around his waist. “I don’t want to think about it.”

“Okay,” Than murmurs, hugging him back and dropping a kiss onto the top of his head. “What d’you wanna do, Zag?”

“Make out on the bed?” He tips his face up, gazing into Than’s amber eyes, aware he probably has a pleading, puppy dog expression on his face and caring not one bit.

Than walks him backwards until the backs of his knees make contact with the side of the bed. “Lying down or sitting up or something else?”

“Sit down next to me.” Zag disentangles himself from Than’s arms, dropping to perch on the edge of the bed. Than follows, sitting with his thigh pressed against Zag’s, placing Mort carefully on the bedside table beside him. “Now kiss me.”

Than laughs, reaching for Zag at the same time as he reaches for him. Their lips meet, sweet and tender and chaste, their posture unintentionally mirrored, one hand cupping the other’s jaw as their fingers weave together. They kiss again and again, neither of them willing to deepen the kisses towards passion yet, simply enjoying the tingling pressure of their lips meeting and parting in kiss after kiss after kiss.

“I love kissing you,” Than whispers between kisses. “You have the softest lips.”

“Exactly what a horny teenage boy would say to soften me up. Flatterer,” Zag replies, smiling as Than’s laughter caresses his skin.

“I mean it.” Than swipes the tip of his tongue over the seam of his lips, shivering as Zag pulls him closer.

“I know.” Zag tips them back onto the bed, stretching out beside him, pressing close on the narrow bed. He sighs contentedly, letting the tip of his tongue slide over Than’s.

The kisses deepen into long, slow dances of lips and tongues. Than works his arm under Zag's waist, his fingers lifting the hem of his polo shirt to stroke the dip of his lower back. Zag trembles, exhaling into Than's mouth as every nerve lights up, prickles of electricity radiating from where Than's fingers meet his skin. He slides his arm under Than's neck, cradling his head and tugging his hair gently until their lips part, Than's chin tipping up to expose his throat. Zag worships his neck, starting with soft butterfly kisses before transitioning abruptly to sucking bites.

"I thought you said no sex," Than gasps, reflexively pulling Zag's body closer.

"I know I'm the only man you've been intimate with, but surely even you know that this isn't sex," Zag murmurs, mouthing over his Adam's apple.

"Feels like it's going to turn into sex," Than shudders.

"It won't. I told you, wait til tonight." Zag nips his collarbone gently, a smug smirk playing on his lips.

"You're such a tease," Than groans, groping Zag's ass.

"Just imagine how good it'll feel when you fuck me tonight," Zag whispers, biting his way up Than's neck, secretly thrilled by how aroused Than is from just a few kisses.

"You're killing me," Than growls, grabbing Zag's chin and kissing him hard.

Eventually the kisses slow and soften, their fingers loosening to caress instead of grip. Zag blinks his eyelids open, finding himself immediately gazing into the molten warmth of Than's eyes. They stare at each other, lost in the moment.

Zag finds himself wishing there was something he could say to make Than stay. Something. Anything.

His phone chimes, breaking the spell. Than smiles sadly at him as he shuffles himself off the bed, crossing the room to grab the device from the small desk in the corner. "It's Captain Poseidon. They're half an hour out. We should go."

"Five minutes," Than murmurs, sitting up on the edge of the bed. "Please, Zag."

Zag bites back an indulgent smile, nodding and opening his arms. Than stands and steps into his arms, cuddling him so close Zag's face is immediately pillowed between his pecs. They stand, holding each other close, hands stroking and smoothing over each other's backs, saying nothing at all.

"Alright," Than murmurs, his voice low enough that Zag feels it rumbling in his chest. "We better go."

“Don’t forget Mort.” Zag stretches up, kissing him lightly before leading him back downstairs and out of the front door.

They're both quiet on the way back to the marina, Zag concentrating on driving and Than watching the scenery pass by out of the window, his hand heavy on Zag’s thigh.

“I’ll drop you at the yacht, and then go return the car?” Zag says quietly, shifting into a lower gear as they turn down a steep hill.

“Thanks. I need to hit the gym for a couple hours. But I’ll see you after dinner tonight? What time can you finish?”

“I need to catch up on some paperwork, make sure the items we’re bringing onboard at Paros are logged and inventoried, handle dinner service. I can probably be with you around ten, if everything goes well.”

“Alright. I guess we’ll only have a couple hours before you have to go, but I’ll take it. Can’t wait.”

Zag’s cheeks warm, remembering the conversation he had with the Captain about sleeping in Than’s cabin. He’d told Than about that discussion, hadn’t he? Maybe not. It was only yesterday morning that he sat in the Captain’s office discussing his fling with Than, and since then, so much has happened. Than asked for extra towels and tempted him into the shower, the discussion with Hypnos, a whirlwind of a day.

“I don’t think I told you. When I spoke to Captain Poseidon, I asked if it was okay for me to sleep in your cabin if… um, if it made sense. He said it was fine so long as I’m able to stick to my usual work routine. So if you want, I can stay. I'll have to get up early, but I can sleep with you. If you want.” He stares ahead, concentrating intently on the road even as Than’s hand tightens over his thigh.

“Of course I want that. Tonight? Can you stay with me tonight?” Than’s voice is soft and wondrous, brimming with hope.

“I can, yeah. I’ll come over as soon as I’m done and I’ll stay.” Than squeezes his thigh, sighing contentedly, his happiness lifting the corners of Zag’s mouth. “Besides… I remember you saying something about fucking me all night. I’m hoping it was a promise and not idle dirty talk.”

Than snickers. “It was a promise, trust me.” His hand drifts upwards, dipping between Zag’s legs, his fingers stroking along the seam of his shorts.

Zag grabs his hand and places it safely on his own thigh. “Thanatos. I’m driving. Keep your hands to yourself."

“Zagreus, did you put my hand here because you want me to touch myself instead of touching you?” Than’s voice is playfully shocked, full of mischief.

“I can see the headlines now,” Zag deadpans. “You’re really insatiable, you know that?”

“It’s all you, Zag. I can’t help myself.” Than slides his hand back over Zag’s thigh, keeping his fingers away from any sensitive areas.

Zag swallows, opening the window a little more to let the fresh air wash over his face, cooling his blush. Every so often, Than says things that make him wonder if the thing between them could be more than a fling. He has to remember that internationally famous, smoking hot, ostensibly straight rock stars don’t get into relationships with yacht crew members born on tiny Greek islands. He has to. Letting his hopes rise and swell like a wave building out at sea will just make the crashing fall down to the shore more painful.

The car turns smoothly onto the road that runs parallel to the superyacht berths at the marina. The Agape Mou is already docked, Daniel standing on the pavement beside a delivery van, checking the quality of the fresh produce offered by the supply company. Zag stops the car, waving at Daniel and resisting the urge to kiss Than goodbye before he swings his long legs out of the cramped passenger seat. Than shuts the door firmly behind him, leaving his breathy see you later to drift like a promise in the salt tinged air.

Zag returns the car to the rental kiosk and walks back to the yacht, arriving just in time to help Daniel and Anna carry the crates of produce to the stores.

“Good lunch?” Anna asks, her usual cheekiness completely absent. “Get some time to just be together?”

“Yeah,” Zag smiles, lifting a wooden crate of fruit, the scent of ripe strawberries rising in the warm air. “I think he enjoyed being somewhere completely private. I don’t think he can truly relax very often.”

“And you, did you enjoy yourself?” Daniel asks as he leads the way through to the kitchen. “I gotta admit, Zag, you look pretty cute together.”

“I had a great time,” Zag sighs dreamily. “Just a fling though. Just a fling.”

“Uh huh,” Anna replies, rolling her eyes as she follows Zag into the kitchen, placing a sealed box of fresh fish on the gleaming stainless steel bench. “Did you see the article in that American celebrity gossip magazine?”

“No, what did it say?” Zag opens the fridge, sliding the produce inside based on Chef’s exacting preferences.

“I’ll show you,” Daniel says, sliding his phone out of the pocket of his tan shorts. “Thanatos in love? That’s the headline. They went into a lot of detail comparing his expression in the photos with that supermodel from the other night to old photos of him with ex-girlfriends. Apparently he looks smitten.”

"He told me the photos were a setup. Guess he's a good actor." Zag expects to feel at least a tiny thread of insecurity, looking at the many photos of Than with beautiful women tucked under his arm, but he feels fine. Unaffected. Their relationship might be destined to be short lived, but Zag knows Than is choosing to be with him right now.

"Oh, right. Yeah, I think if these people saw how he gazes at you when he thinks no-one's looking, they'd write a completely different story." Anna grins, elbowing Zag in the side.

"Ow. That hurt," Zag glares at her. "It must be so hard to be that famous. Nice to be able to afford whatever you want, obviously, but I don't know if it's worth the price. People speculating about your relationships all the time, scrutinising your facial expressions… ugh."

"Yeah. Lucky none of us will ever have that problem, right?" Daniel grins. "Anna, we better go finish the laundry."

"And I need to go do some paperwork. Anna, you want to handle turn down tonight, Daniel and I can do dinner?"

Anna grins. "Sure, Zag, whatever you say. See you later."

She and Daniel bustle out of the kitchen, whispering conspiratorially as the door swings shut behind them, leaving Zag to return the crates to the supplier before he dives into the paperwork.

He can only hope it'll be a distraction from his increasingly romantic daydreams.

Chapter Text

Than steps off the treadmill, sweat trickling down his back. He drains the remainder of his water and trudges across the room to refill his bottle. The heaviest dumbbells in the set feel like they match the heaviness of his mood, so he grabs them and lowers himself into a press up position. A deep inhalation and he stabilises his core, pulling one of the dumbbells into his stomach a moment later. He keeps himself perfectly balanced as he executes each movement, slow and precise, focusing on the physical sensations to distract himself from his emotions.

Megaera knocks on the frosted glass door, opening it to peek inside. “Than, you got a minute? Flurry of press from the weekly gossip rags back home.”

“Yeah, sure,” Than replies, keeping his breathing even as he alternates raising the dumbbells in a smooth, even rhythm.

“Doesn’t look like that’s challenging you much. Want me to sit on your back while you do press ups again?” Megaera grins, sitting cross legged before him.

“Nah. Worrying about you falling off and hitting your head kinda ruined the workout.” Than chuckles, slowing his movements for an extra challenge.

“Fine, just keep doing whatever that is, then,” Meg says, flipping her iPad open.

“Okay, Meg,” Than huffs, his core starting to tremble with the effort of holding him and the weights in the air.

“So, some of the weekly gossip magazines picked up on the photos from Moni. Nice second wave of publicity after the web gossip sites calmed down. This one in particular seems to have taken a nice angle - the headline is Thanatos in love? - they’ve compared a bunch of old photos of you with the ones of you and Sophia. Apparently you’re looking at her in a way you’ve never looked at any other woman before, hence the speculation about whether you’re in love.”

“Tenuous,” Than gasps, muscles pulsing with effort. He vows to do ten more reps before he gives up and sprawls on the mat.

“Yeah, obviously, but it’s good coverage. Maybe we should stage another shot or two before we leave, get Sophia to come over and hang out on the beach or something?”

“No time.” Than lowers his knees slowly to the mat, pushing the dumbbells away and catching his breath.

“She might come across. I’m sure the publicity is working for her and her people too. Or are you saying you have other plans for our last day?” Megaera asks innocently.

“Don’t play cute, Meg. I want to spend the last day with Zag, obviously.” Than pushes away the aching feeling in his stomach that has nothing to do with the physical strain of the gym. He clambers to his feet, picking up the dumbbells and starting a series of cross body curls.

“You’ve got it bad. How’re you feeling about leaving him?” Meg scrolls idly through a few prominent celebrity news sites, carefully not looking at him.

“Not great, to be honest. When I’m with him, I feel like I can be whoever I want to be, not whoever’s going to get the best PR. He’s just so… grounded. So genuine. And so kind,” Than sighs, arms swinging the dumbbells smoothly up from thigh level to his chest.

He half wishes they weren't having this conversation. His thoughts keep drifting to the moment he’ll step off the yacht and leave Zag behind. If he could just live in the moment like his therapist tells him, maybe he could enjoy the ever decreasing hours they have left without a veil of impending sadness.

“You know it wouldn’t work, Than. Even if the label were okay with it, the general public isn’t known for its acceptance of stars who turn out to be gay.” Than shoots her an incredulous look. “Or bi, whatever. I know it’s not what you want to hear, but this fling has to end when we go back to reality.”

“I know.” Than drops the dumbbells, picking up a towel and scrubbing it over his face. He's been telling himself the same thing for days, and yet it seems to hurt more when Meg says it. “Trust me, I know.”

“I don’t like it either. Hey, this’ll cheer you up. We’ve done some conspiring…”

“Who’s we?”

“We as in me, Charon and Hypnos. It was Charon’s idea actually. He said you and Zag might appreciate pretending like you’re having an actual date, just two people who like each other eating a meal together or whatever, rather than snatching time when Zag can get away from work.”

“He’d be right. I can tell Zag feels guilty running around with me when he’s meant to be working.” Than lies back down on the mat and starts a set of crunches.

“So tonight, the Captain’s gonna give Zag the night off. Like, officially. He can get dressed in his own clothes–”

“Shit, I’ve never seen him in his own clothes.”

“We figured. Anyway, he can get dressed in his own clothes, come down to your room, and one of the stewards will bring you a meal and a nice bottle of wine. Spend the evening together. Sound good?” Megaera toys with the links of her gold bracelet, a sure sign she’s anxious.

“What’s eating you about this idea?” Than asks, catching her eye as he sits up.

“It’s our second to last night. Hypnos and I are hoping that if you spend as much time with Zag tonight, tomorrow, and tomorrow night, you’ll find it easier to walk away. Get this infatuation out of your system.”

Than pauses for a steadying breath before he replies. “What does Charon think?”

“He doesn’t think it’s infatuation. He thinks you’re falling in love.” Meg bites her lip, waiting for his response and frowning when it doesn’t come. “Nothing to say about that?”

“Let me just say that I like the plan for tonight, and I appreciate you all looking out for me. Thanks, Meg.”

"Just be careful, alright?" Meg rises smoothly to her feet, tucking her iPad under her arm and making her way over to the door. "I want you to be happy, but I also don't want you to get outed and lose your career. Enjoy tonight, Than."

"Catch you at breakfast, I guess." He watches her leave out of the corner of his eye as he finishes the last of his crunches.

Than works through the rest of his routine in a daze, stripping off his tank top when it gets too sweaty. He knows he's pushing himself harder than usual, appreciates that he's doing it to stop himself from thinking too much about Charon's perspective. Is he falling in love? Even the possibility of it is terrifying, the mere idea sending his heart fluttering and his stomach clenching with fearful anxiety.

He forces himself through a hundred extra push ups, then two five minute planks, until his muscles scream with exhaustion and his mind is pleasantly foggy. He drifts slowly back to his room and grabs a sachet of custom blended post workout protein powder and his shaker. He shakes the mixture vigorously as he walks to the bathroom, placing it on the marble countertop while he turns on the water.

The familiar scent of his shampoo brings him back to himself. He washes his hair slowly, lathering the shampoo twice just for the comfort the aroma brings him, dousing the ends of his hair in extra conditioner to feel it slip silkily between his fingers in the downpour. He dismisses the idea of love. He imagines it bleeding out of his pores and over his wet skin, circling the drain before disappearing out of sight.

Two nights, one day. It can’t be love. It can’t be.

He's out of the shower and finishing his protein shake when a knock filters through his turmoil. He shrugs a white cotton robe over his shoulders, tying the belt tightly as he walks down the hallway to the door.

“Good evening, sir.” Daniel stands before him, dressed in the stewards’ formal evening uniform of fitted buttoned waistcoat, crisp white shirt and gold piped pants.

“Um, hello.”

“I hear Ms Megaera told you about this evening’s plan already. Anna is informing Zag as we speak. I was wondering if I might prepare your room for you, but I see you’re just out of the shower. Perhaps I can return shortly?”

“Give me a minute to get some clothes and I’ll finish getting ready in the bathroom,” Than replies, wondering what exactly Daniel means by prepare the room.

“If you’re sure, sir. It’s no trouble for me to come back.” Daniel smiles at him.

“No, it’s fine. Come in.” Than turns and walks down the hallway, Daniel following at a respectful distance, pulling a small trolley with him. “What time will Zag be coming over?”

“In an hour. Will that be enough time?”

“Yeah. Let me just get some clothes.” Than opens the wardrobe, reaching for a t-shirt and his favourite ripped jeans. He hesitates. “Daniel, do you know what Zag’s going to be wearing? Is this a formal dinner, or….”

Daniel stands in the corner of the room, trolley beside him, his hands clasped neatly behind his back. “I believe Zag will be dressing up as best he can, sir.”

“Alright.” Than sorts through the hangers until he finds a black cotton shirt with a deep lace up neckline and a pair of dark linen pants, pulling the clothes from their hangers and draping them carefully over his arm. “I’ll just go get dressed and dry my hair and stuff.”

“Very good, sir.” Daniel nods, holding the bedroom door open for him.

Than shuffles through to the bathroom, closing the door and locking it behind him. He realises he’s left his hairdryer in the bedroom, and he doesn’t feel like going back to get it, choosing instead to towel dry his locks vigorously, hoping Zag likes his natural waves and loose curls. A shiver ripples through him as he applies body lotion, his skin oversensitive beneath his fingers at the idea of spending the entire evening and the whole night with Zag. He rubs moisturiser into his face and applies some lip balm before he gets dressed, trying to stretch out his routine enough that Daniel will be gone by the time he emerges.

Than leans against the wall, waiting five minutes before he ventures back into the bedroom. When he does he can’t help but gasp, startled by the soft instrumental music playing through the built in speakers and the distinctly romantic ambiance. The room is adorned with tiny votive candles flickering in frosted glass bowls, a table for two set in the space between the bed and the wardrobe, matte silver placemats reflecting the glow of yet more candles clustered on the pristine white tablecloth. A gleaming silver champagne bucket sits on one of the side tables, two crystal flutes set just to the side.

Than perches on the edge of the neatly made bed, toying with his phone as he waits.

He’s upright and halfway out of the bedroom before he’s consciously heard Zag knocking softly at the outer door. Zag is a sight to behold in his own clothes, sexy and casual and so perfectly him it takes his breath away. He wears a tight untucked white linen shirt, buttoned just halfway up his chest with the sleeves rolled up his strong forearms, his thighs hugged by soft pale grey shorts. A sparkle of red and gold catches Than’s eye, drawing his attention to a necklace nestled between Zag’s pectoral muscles.

“Finished gawping yet?” Zag grins, the picture of suave confidence as he leans against the doorframe. “Are you going to invite me in?”

“Sorry,” Than chuckles, stepping back and holding the door open. “I’ve never seen you in your own clothes. You look… edible.”

“Edible?” Zag laughs, taking Than’s hand and leading him towards the bedroom. “I’ve never been called edible before. Looking forward to watching you eat me later.”

Than tugs Zag back against his chest, kissing his temple and whispering into his ear. “I’m going to devour you later, Zagreus.”

Zag shivers in his arms. “I think your family and my coworkers want us to have dinner together first. Try to control yourself, won’t you?” He swats playfully at the arms wrapped around his waist until Than releases him, allowing him to open the bedroom door. “Oh, wow.”

“Incredible, right? I didn’t think they approved, and yet here they are giving us romance,” Than grins, shuffling around Zag towards the champagne bucket, removing the bottle from the ice and tearing off the foil wrapped around the cork. “Champagne?”

“Please,” Zag murmurs, his hand twitching forward as if to take over before dropping back to rest on his hip. “Who set this up?”

“Daniel," Than replies, twisting the bottle smoothly and releasing the cork with a soft pop. He pours the effervescent liquid into the flutes and sets the champagne back on ice, handing a delicate glass to Zag and raising his own in a toast.

Zag wisely doesn’t ask what they’re toasting, touching his glass to Than’s before taking a sip. “Ah, they gave us a good bottle. Delicious.”

They grin at each other, standing a few paces apart in the flickering candlelight, ribbons of glowing warmth and cool shadow dancing over their faces as music plays in the background. Zag takes his glass, setting it down on the table next to his own. Than watches as he steps into his arms, his mismatched eyes shining even in the low light. He holds him close, breathing in his scent as Zag sighs, his arms tightening around his back as he relaxes into their embrace.

“You okay?” Than whispers, his lips moving against his forehead.

“Yeah. Can we just pretend nothing exists but us, tonight?” Zag’s voice is as tight as his grip on Than’s body.

“Of course.” Than suspects Zag is already thinking ahead to the moment they part, the same as he is, wishing that the looming sadness wouldn’t taint the time they have left. He inhales deeply, letting Zag’s scent permeate his lungs, memorising the way he feels pressed against his chest, the rhythm of his back rising and falling with his breath under Than’s hands.

Than loses track of time as they stand in the candlelight, arms wrapped around each other, drawing comfort from the simplicity of just being together.

The knock on the cabin door comes too soon. Zag steps back, brushing at his eyes with the heels of his hands as he pulls the bedroom door open and disappears down the hallway. Than chooses to give him space, trying not to listen to the muted conversation between Zag and whichever steward knocked on the door. A few moments later, a trolley rattles down the hallway.

“Dinner is served. Everything’s on here, they’re leaving us alone for the rest of the night.”

“Sit, Zag. Let me serve you for once, okay?” Than smiles, pulling one of the chairs free of the snowy tablecloth and nodding towards it. Zag takes his place, letting Than slide the chair in as he sits down.

There are two covered trays on the trolley’s surface, one labelled dinner and one labelled dessert. Than removes the cover from the first tray with a flourish, revealing tiny plates laden with perfectly made sushi, accompanied by bowls of wasabi and soy sauce. He transfers them to the table, adding black lacquered chopsticks and rectangular white plates before taking his own seat opposite Zag.

“Chef hates making sushi,” Zag murmurs, dipping a precisely made salmon maki roll into the soy sauce and lifting it up to Than’s lips. He leans forward to receive it, raising his eyebrows at the light freshness of it as he chews. “Only makes it under duress or when the client appreciates it enough for it to be worth the effort. Quite a compliment.”

Than swallows and feeds Zag a piece of tuna sashimi. “It’s really good. I love sushi. This is almost as good as the stuff I ate in Japan.”

They keep the conversation light, alternating between feeding each other and feeding themselves, the ample spread slowly diminishing as they sip golden champagne. Than could almost imagine they’re at a Japanese restaurant on a date, knowing they’ll be going home together and perfectly content to wait, enjoying each other’s company as they nibble at good food and drink good wine.

One by one, the plates are emptied until nothing remains. Than stacks the plates back onto the tray and slides the cover neatly into place before he uncovers the dessert tray to reveal a bowl of perfectly ripe strawberries.

“Want to take those over to the bed?” Zag suggests, pushing back his chair as if he can accurately predict Than’s answer.

"Great idea." Than walks around to his side of the bed, sitting up against the headboard with the bowl of strawberries resting in his lap. He watches as Zag kicks his shoes off, kneeling on the bed to crawl into place beside him.

"I like your hair like this," Zag says softly, stroking a wavy strand back from his face. "This is how it dries naturally?"

"Yeah. I'm so used to blow drying it, I do it by default." Than winds an arm around Zag’s waist, watching him pluck a plump berry from the bowl. 

"It looks beautiful curly." Zag holds the berry just out of reach, his voice turning teasing. "Want some?"

"You have to ask?" Than replies, his voice already low with the first flush of desire. Zag smiles, raising the glistening fruit to Than's mouth, pushing it just between his lips. Than takes a bite, mellow sweetness flooding his mouth.

Zag bites off the rest, tossing the stalk back into the bowl and chewing slowly. He leans forward and draws Than into a sticky, strawberry tinged kiss, his tongue dipping between Than's lips with such tenderness that Than can’t help but shiver. Zag keeps the kiss light, pulling back too soon for Than’s liking.

Than takes another berry from the bowl, biting it in half before brushing it over Zag's lips, letting it slip down over his chin and along his jaw. He follows the shining trail over his skin, taking his time licking the juice from Zag's skin before capturing his lips.

This time, Zag the one left breathless and wanting. Than smirks, reaching for another berry.

"Wait. Take your top off," Zag breathes, taking the bowl from Than's lap, his fingers innocently brushing across his thigh.

Than loosens the cords at the neckline of his shirt, grasping the hem and pulling it over his head. He leans across, trailing his fingers down the open collar of Zag’s shirt, taking care not to touch his skin. He pops the buttons slowly, holding Zag’s gaze as he takes another strawberry and offers it to Zag, letting him take a bite. When his shirt gapes open, he slides the berry firmly over his collarbone and down his sternum, smearing juice and flecks of bright red flesh over Zag’s skin. He pushes the rest of the strawberry between Zag’s lips as he leans over, holding Zag's necklace aside to lick and suck the juice from the contours of his chest, noting with pleasure that Zag is already hard.

He doesn’t know if it’s the same berry or a fresh one when Zag circles his nipple, the cool wetness of the fruit contrasting enough with the warmth of his skin to send lightning down his spine. Zag gazes into his eyes as he deliberately licks the hardened peak with the very tip of his tongue. “Just looking at you gets me hard, Than.” Zag’s fingers find his other nipple as he sucks every trace of juice away. “Touching you. You touching me. You make me feel like I’m about to explode.”

Than takes the bowl of berries from Zag’s lap and moves them to the nightstand. He pushes his shirt off his shoulders, trying to take it off as quickly as possible, frustrated when the fabric clings stubbornly to Zag’s forearms. He tugs again, his frown turning into a sheepish grin when he notices the smile on Zag’s face. “Help me get this off, won’t you?”

“But it’s so much fun watching you struggle,” Zag giggles, loosening the fabric around his forearms and pulling the shirt from his body. Than lifts his necklace gently over his head, leaning across him and placing it on the nightstand by the strawberries. “So impatient.”

“I want you.” Than pushes him onto his back, leaning over him and kissing him soundly, tangling his fingers in his overlong hair. “I want you so much.”

“I can tell,” Zag palms his cock, stroking him far too lightly before he reaches for the drawstring around his waist, loosening it with eager fingers. Than lifts his hips, helping Zag push his shorts down his thighs. “Mmm, no underwear. God, I’ve been dreaming about your dick. Can’t wait to feel you inside me again.” He wraps his fingers around Than’s length, fingers dancing over the barbell, his eyes darkening as Than’s jaw falls slack at the sensation.

“Slow down. We have all night, remember?” Than shudders, stilling Zag’s hand with his own before reaching to undo Zag’s pants. Zag lets go of his cock, helping Than pop the buttons of his fly. He raises his hips as Than strips the layers of fabric from his body, trailing kisses down his stomach, over his hip and along his inner thigh along the way.

Zag sits up, pulling him close and kissing him hard, sighing into his mouth as their tongues meet. Than straddles him, his entire body thrilling as their cocks brush together, as Zag’s nails dig into his back. He feels incredible, his mouth moving sensuously over Than’s as they press together as tightly as they can.

“God, I can’t get enough of you. Lie back,” Than whispers, lowering Zag onto the sheets and taking the opportunity to memorise the image, Zag flushed full of desire beneath him. He reaches over to the nightstand, taking another berry from the bowl, holding Zag in place with a hand on his belly and kneeling between his legs. “You tasted so good the other night. I wonder how you’ll taste like this.”

He traces the shape of Zag’s cock with the point of the strawberry, swirling it carefully around the head. Zag shivers, inhaling deeply, his eyes dark as he watches Than touch him with fingers and fruit. Than swipes the berry through the welling precome at the tip before bringing it slowly to his lips, licking it clean before biting it in half. He’s barely swallowed the sweet flesh before he dips back down, rubbing the fruit over the head of Zag’s cock. Zag keens, his hips pushing upwards as Than bends to take his cock into his mouth, the sticky juice dissipating immediately in his mouth.

“Than. Than, fuck, yeah,” Zag gasps, taking the half eaten strawberry and bringing it to his lips. His fingers twist into Than’s hair, tugging gently, sending flashes of heat straight to Than’s cock. He doesn’t realise he’s moaning until Zag laughs, low and throaty. “You like that? Fuck, you look so good with my cock in your mouth. Don’t stop.”

Zag uses his grip on Than’s hair to direct his movements, speeding him up and slowing him down as he pleases. It’s so hot, feeling Zag take control, knowing that every moan and thrust results from the movements of Than’s mouth, his tongue. He realises his hands lay idle on Zag’s hips, sliding one around his hip and over his thigh to tease his entrance gently. Zag sits up, wrenching the nightstand drawer open and grabbing a bottle of lube, hurriedly squeezing a few drops onto Than’s fingers.

Than doesn’t stop to wonder how the lube found its way into his nightstand. He pushes a finger inside, surprised at how relaxed the tight muscle is, adding another quickly as Zag moans over and over again, his fingers spasming in Than’s hair. He finds a rhythm, thrusting his fingers deep inside as he swallows Zag’s cock, pulling them out as he lifts his head to swirl his tongue over the tip. Zag’s breathing turns sharp and shallow, tiny breathy gasps escaping his lips as he climbs towards his peak. Than feels invincible, powerful, his name on Zag’s lips as he thrusts his fingers harder, struggles to take Zag’s cock deeper into his throat.

Zag’s fingers dig into his scalp, his entire body tensing as he comes, spurting in Than’s mouth so fast he struggles to swallow fast enough. On instinct, he curls his fingers, brushing the tips over Zag’s prostate, rewarded by a deep groan and more fluid flooding his throat.

“Fuck. Fuck, Than, you’re amazing, that was incredible, oh God…” Zag flops back into the sheets, chest heaving. Than licks him clean and pulls his fingers gently from his hole, gazing up at him from between his thighs, pride sparkling in his blood as he looks at the results of his ministrations. Zag sits up shakily, tugging Than upwards to kiss him, his skin damp with sweat and sticky with the stray drops of strawberry juice. “Than… I… You make me feel... Fuck, what are you doing to me.”

Than holds him close, eagerly receiving the light, breathless kisses Zag gifts him while he catches his breath, his hands slipping from his back to his hips.

"I really didn't mean to come that fast, promise. I wanted to ride you… I will ride you… later. But now... let me take care of you. What do you want? My hands, mouth, thighs? Whatever you want, I'm yours."

Chapter Text

Zag gazes at Than's face, pressing endless shaky kisses against his lips. He really hadn't meant to let Than push him over the edge so fast, but the image of him caressing Zag's dick with a ripe strawberry, licking his precome from the glistening red fruit before taking him so enthusiastically into his mouth… Fuck. One of the hottest things he's ever seen.

After tonight, strawberries will forever be his favourite fruit.

"Your mouth," Than murmurs, his tongue slipping between Zag's lips, tasting strawberry sweet and slightly bitter at the same time. "I want your mouth."

Zag smiles into the kiss, reaching down to tease the slick head of Than's cock with his thumb, buying himself time to figure out how to blow Than's mind the way he just blew his. An idea occurs to him, widening his smile into a cat-about-to-get-the-cream grin.

"What are you plotting, Zag?"

"Trust me, I think you'll like it," He pushes Than away gently. "Go sit in that chair. Go on."

"Alright." Than scrambles off the bed and walks over to the armchair, his erection bobbing with every step.

Zag follows, grabbing the bottle of champagne from the ice bucket and dropping to his knees by Than's feet. He swigs directly from the bottle, winking at Than as he fits his lips over the cool glass rim. Than's eyes light up, watching as he swallows most of his mouthful, letting a little champagne remain to fizz on his tongue. He stretches up, pulling Than into a deep kiss, letting the effervescent liquid flow from his mouth to Than’s as their tongues find each other.

"Fuck," Than groans. Zag takes another mouthful, bringing their lips together again. This time his mouth is too full to kiss without making a mess, sending rivulets of champagne snaking messily down their chins.

Zag breaks the kiss and licks the champagne from Than's neck. He takes a small mouthful and places his mouth on his nipple, letting the liquid bubble around the peaked nub. The moan that reverberates through his chest sends a thrill of excitement through Zag's body.

He would love to listen to Than’s moans every night. Would love to learn how to take him apart, holding him on the edge of ecstasy until he begs for release.

Zag swallows the champagne, taking another mouthful before he sinks slowly towards Than’s cock, relishing the molten heat in his eyes. He slides him carefully between his lips, his mouth tingling as the champagne fizzes enthusiastically around the head.

Than whimpers, his fingers sliding into Zag's hair as he begins to move his lips slowly up and down. His thighs are like bunched steel beneath Zag's palms, his breathing already shudderingly shallow.

“God, Zag, you…” Than sighs. His fingers move absently through Zag’s hair, twitching every time Zag drags his tongue over the barbell. “You’re killing me.”

Zag smiles, watching Than’s eyes flutter closed as he slumps back into the armchair’s embrace.

He doesn't last long. Every few minutes, Zag pauses to take another mouthful of champagne, fresh bubbles caressing Than’s cock in tandem with his tongue. He comes with a shout, a messy mixture of champagne and come dribbling out of the corners of Zag's mouth as he does. Zag is still swallowing when Than hauls him upwards, licking his chin clean and kissing him sloppily. His fingers dig into the soft flesh of Zag’s ass, holding him in place tightly as they kiss with a cathartic desperation.

When the kisses grow soft and tender, they stagger back to the bed. Than turns him away, pressing close against his back and drawing his knees up to bracket his legs.

Zag yawns, warm and satiated wrapped in Than's arms. He can’t decide what’s more pleasurable; the shared physical pleasure they just enjoyed, or the cosy closeness of cuddling in the afterglow.

"Hey. Too early for sleeping," Than murmurs, his lips curving in a smile against Zag's shoulder.

"I know, I know," Zag yawns again. "We'd wake up stuck together if we went to sleep now, anyway. I'm covered in strawberry juice, champagne and your come."

"Just the way I like you," Than nuzzles against him, his smile widening just before he yawns himself. "Add some cream and you'd be the perfect dessert."

"Are you saying I'm not the perfect dessert right now?" Zag huffs in pretend indignation, a glowing, playful mirth dancing in his chest.

"Of course you are, babe,” Than murmurs fuzzily, his forehead pressed against Zag's shoulder.

"No sleeping!" Zag kicks Than's foot gently, trying to keep his voice steady even as his heart is flails wildly from the casual endearment. "We need to shower."

"M’not sleepy. You know, I haven't tried the hot tub yet," Than yawns. "How about we clean up and soak under the stars?"

The romance of the idea hits Zag right in the stomach, combining with a strange sort of pre-emptive melancholy. "Sounds nice, but what if someone sees us? It’ll be awkward."

"I'm pretty sure I'm a VIP megastar or something. We can text Hypnos and the stewards and ask them to stay in their rooms." Than pauses, waiting for Zag's reaction. It's a tempting mental image, snuggling with Than in the steaming water, the cool night breeze ruffling their hair as they kiss beneath the stars. "Zag?"

"I don't know. Feels selfish to ask everyone to stay in their rooms.” He chooses not to mention that the as yet unmade memory will haunt him for the weeks to come, taunting him with the romance of what could have been.

"Blame me. I'm happy to be called selfish if I get to hang out in a hot tub with you.” Than pauses again, his fingers stroking gently over Zag’s belly. “Hey, Zag?"

"Yeah?" Zag replies softly, torn between savouring the romance while he has it and saving himself from future heartache.

Than sings softly into his ear. "Kiss me, beneath the milky twilight. Lead me, out on the moonlit floor. Lift your open hand, strike up the band and make the fireflies dance. Silver moon's sparkling… So kiss me."

Zag feels an idiotic grin creep across his face, powerless to resist. "You are one cheesy VIP megastar. Alright, text them."

Than leans over and kisses his cheek before he rolls to the side to grab his phone. Zag rolls over to face him, struck by how beautiful he looks in the flickering candle light. His fingers pause their tapping. "Hyp's typing." He watches the phone for a few moments and then snorts. "He says, and I quote, that everyone's shut safely in their rooms with earplugs in because no-one wants to see or hear us getting it on. Real nice. So the coast is clear."

"Daniel and Anna too?" Zag giggles, feeling a blush creep across his cheeks.

"Hang on, Anna has the VIP phone tonight, yeah?" Than waits for Zag’s nod before he taps out another message. Barely a minute later and he’s chuckling at a response. "Yeah, they don't want to know what their boss is doing with the world's sexiest man. Am I the world's sexiest man?" He turns his face to Zag, pouting adorably.

"Without question.” Zag kisses his fingertips and lifts them to Than’s lips. “Okay. Hot tub. But we wash first."

"Whatever you say, boss," Than grins, scooping him off the bed and carrying him into the bathroom.

They clean each other gently with dampened washcloths, enough to cleanse the stickiness from their skin in the minimal amount of time. Than tosses Zag a cotton robe and belts its twin around his waist, turning to wind his hair into a bun on top of his head. Than catches him watching in the mirror, winking affectionately before he takes Zag's hand and leads him upstairs.

Zag's eyes dart around the silent yacht as they walk, nervous that despite Hypnos' messages they'll run into guests or crew. The main deck is deserted, the low nighttime lighting casting fuzzy pools of light in the shadows. When they reach the sundeck, Zag presses the button that retracts the hot tub's cover, watching the steam billow as the hot water meets the cool night air.

Than removes his robe and lays it on a nearby lounger, comfortable with his nakedness. He climbs into the tub, giving Zag a perfect view of his perfect ass as he swings one leg and then the other into the swirling water.

"Not that you seem to be worried, but it's a sunken tub," Zag says, loosening the belt of his own robe and letting it slip from his shoulders. Than watches him, an appreciative smile dancing on his lips. "This deck is designed for privacy, in the hot tub or on the loungers. Unless someone comes up the stairs, we won't be seen."

"Take the robe off, then." Than settles back in the water, stretching his arms out along the curved side of the tub. "Come join me."

Zag flushes under his gaze, letting the robe fall to the floor. He nearly leaves it pooled on the deck, stooping at the last minute to arrange it neatly on the lounger beside Than's.

He steps into the tub, shivering as the hot water envelops him. He wades over to Than, wasting no time, straddling his thighs and wrapping his arms around his neck. He exhales, looking up at the stars hanging in the night sky above them, sparkling like diamonds thrown over black velvet.

Than grips his waist gently, thumbs stroking his sides lightly enough not to tickle. "You good, Zag?"

"Yeah," Zag replies, leaning forward to kiss him. "You know, I've never been in here before. Watched the clients use it many, many times, but I've never been in."

"You like it?" Than asks, trailing kisses from his temple down his cheekbone to his lips.

"It's nice. Relaxing." Zag stretches over Than's shoulder and presses a button, the dull whine of the pump drowned by the sound of bubbles churning through the water. He slides his palms down Than's shoulders to his biceps, cutting inwards to skim his hands over his chest and his waist.

Than sighs, letting his head tip back to rest of the edge of the tub, gazing up at the stars. Zag slips out of his lap, sitting beside him and mirroring his posture, admiring the starlit sky spread out above them. Than takes his hand under the water, squeezing gently as he hums Kiss Me under his breath.

"I wouldn't have thought you'd sing me a pop song from the late 90s. Classic rock, maybe." Zag goes to kiss Than's cheek, smiling when he turns to intercept his lips.

"It's a great song. People look down on pop music, but just because something's popular doesn't mean it's bad."

"Well, any song that leads to kissing is good by me."

Than sinks deeper into the water, cuddling into Zag’s side. He turns his face towards him, kissing him slowly as if they have all the time in the world. Zag stretches his arm over the lip of the tub, inviting Than to rest his head on his shoulder and kissing his forehead sweetly when he accepts.

"So many stars," Than murmurs, resting his hand on the curve of Zag's waist.

"There's so little light pollution here, we get to see the night sky in all its glory," Zag says, basking in the vastness of the universe and struck by how fortunate he is to be sitting here beneath it with Than. "Mama and I used to sit outside at night naming the constellations until I knew them all by heart."

"I know nothing about the stars. Teach me something?" Than squeezes his waist under the water.

"Sure." Zag raises one hand out of the water, pointing his index finger to trace the shape of the stars. "See this constellation here, looks a little like a figure? And this one just across from it, also looks like a person? Those are Perseus and Andromeda."

"I feel like there's a myth associated with those names, but I can't quite remember it." Than follows Zag's finger diligently as he outlines the constellations again.

"Yeah, you're right, there is. There are a few versions, but basically Andromeda's mother, Queen Cassiopeia, angered Poseidon enough that he sent a monster to lay waste to her lands. She has a constellation here too, see?"

"Mmm, yeah. What happened with the monster?"

"It was called Cetus, and it's also in the sky, below Andromeda. Anyway, Queen Cassiopeia offered Princess Andromeda up as a sacrifice to placate the gods and get rid of the monster. Perseus happened to find her and they fell in love. There are a couple of different versions of what happened next, but Perseus had to fight to be able to be with her, either the monster itself or a mortal man who had been promised her hand. He slew his opponent, and they lived long, happy lives together. When they died, they were turned into constellations so they could be together for all eternity.”

Than gazes up at the sky, tracing the constellations just as Zag showed him. “Moral of the story, love is worth fighting for.”

Zag’s heart lurches, his throat thickening suddenly. “Yeah.” He swallows, needing to find a way to change the subject fast. “I heard one of the gossip magazines thinks you’re in love with Sophia? Obviously your posed photos did the trick.”

“Yep, Meg showed me the article,” Than murmurs, dipping his hand under the bubbling surface and groping for Zag’s hand. “Thanatos in love, what bullshit. They’ve never seen me in love.”

“You ever been in love?” The question pops out of Zag’s mouth before he has a chance to censor himself.

“Once, I think. High school girlfriend. I thought it was love, although honestly it could have just been hormones, novelty and sex. You?”

“Nothing serious. Believe it or not, I was shy at high school, and since then none of my relationships have lasted all that long.” Zag answers automatically, wondering if hormones, novelty and sex are the reasons that Than can’t get enough of him these past few days.

Than doesn’t say anything, continuing to gaze up at the stars, Zag’s hand cradled in his. The silence stretches, Zag’s heart beating weakly as he wonders what he is to Than. What Than is to him. His head hurts with the effort of trying to figure it out.

He turns Than’s face towards him, leaning in to kiss him slowly, taking his time. Than shifts, his knees pressing into the plastic seat either side of his hips, deepening the kiss, his hands moving over Zag’s neck and shoulders. Zag runs his palms up Than’s thighs, groping his ass, wondering what it would feel like to see him laid out on his stomach before him, whether he would enjoy getting fucked as much as Zag does.

“Our height difference makes this pretty awkward,” Than murmurs, shifting his weight as if to move out of Zag’s lap.

Zag presses his fingers into Than’s cheeks, holding him in place. “Maybe. But it also lets us do this,” he whispers, leaning forward to take Than’s nipple into his mouth. He shivers and squirms, hands tightening on Zag’s shoulders. “Not so bad, right?”

“Mmm, I see the benefits,” Than chuckles, his voice rough and breathy again. “Want to go back to bed? I want you.”

“I can tell.” Zag slides one hand around Than’s hip, trailing eager fingers over his hardening cock. “Shower first. Get the chlorine off, okay?”

“Can I get you off in the shower?” Than shivers, pushing his nipple back into Zag’s mouth. “Good thing about working out all the time, I can easily hold you up against the wall. Probably for hours. If you can take it.”

Zag smiles, biting his nipple playfully. “I can take it. Let’s go.”

Than steps out of the hot tub, shrugging a robe over his shoulders before helping Zag into his. He pulls him close, hands roving down his back and over the curve of his ass. Zag's skin prickles with heat, enjoying the possessive way Than touches him even though he knows it's meaningless. He yelps in surprise as Than lifts him up, their bodies dragging against one another, the soft fabric hanging loose at their sides. Zag wraps his legs around Than's hips, toes curling with the sensation of his wet cock pressing against Than's.

"You're gorgeous, Zagreus," Than whispers. He doesn't lean in to kiss him, simply holding him close, his amber eyes blazing.

Lust, just lust, Zag reminds himself. He sways his hips slightly, hoping to goad Than into action. Than's lips part, his eyebrows raising slightly. Zag grinds his hips again, unable to resist.

Than shifts, supporting Zag's weight with one arm as the other slides up his back, gripping his nape as he kisses him hungrily. Zag gives as good as he gets, biting Than's lower lip and trying to stroke his tongue as deeply into his mouth as he can. He breaks the kiss, wiggling slightly so Than knows to let him down, enjoying the filthy slide of their bodies as his feet reach the floor.

They almost run back to Than's cabin.

Than opens the bathroom door, his face bearing a questioning smile when Zag turns towards the bedroom.

"Lube and condoms," Zag grins. "You're going to fuck me in the shower, right?"

Than's smile turns feral as he walks into the bathroom without a word.

Zag vaults across the bed, pulling the nightstand drawer open and grabbing the items he needs. He sprints back to the bathroom, almost skidding on the tiles in his haste, coming to a stop a few paces from the open shower.

Than has already shed his robe. He stands under the spray, water coursing lovingly over his incredible body, one hand wrapped around his dick. His eyes meet Zag's as he strokes himself firmly from tip to base and back again, pausing for a second before he repeats the movement. "What're you waiting for, Zag?"

Chapter Text

Zag smiles, removing his robe and hanging it on the back of the door. He drifts towards the shower, stopping just out of reach. Than strokes himself again, taking his time, heat blooming in his blood as Zag watches the motion of his hand, swallowing as if the sight makes his mouth water.

"Gonna come join me, or am I gonna have to get myself off?" His voice emerges in a surprisingly husky growl, the fire of his arousal burning far more vividly than his hand alone can stoke. He drags his eyes up and down Zag's body, drinking in the sight of him. He's stunning, all golden skin and well defined muscle, although Than's completely sure he'd look better pressed up against the wall, squirming and writhing as he fucks up into him.

Zag darts back to the door, taking a condom and the lube from the pocket of his robe. He puts them on the carved ledge next to Than's shampoo and conditioner, stepping under the falling water and pushing him against the tiles, sending a shock of cold through the heated skin of his back. He crowds in close, pressing his body firmly against Than’s, the contrast between the cool slick tiles and hot wet Zag sending shivers down his spine.

He’s never wanted a person so much in his life. His breath catches in his chest, desire expanding and growing with every moment that passes that he’s not buried inside Zag.

Zag kisses his way slowly from shoulder to shoulder, mouthing at Than's collarbone with a low hum. "How about I make you watch me get myself ready for you? Watching you touch yourself… you drive me crazy. Maybe I should do the same thing to you."

Than's dick jumps between them, Zag's lips curving into a self satisfied smirk as he feels the movement against his stomach. Than leans over him, expelling a hot breath into his ear and enjoying the shudder that results. He laughs softly, eager to up the stakes. "So long as I end up with your legs wrapped around me, my cock deep inside you as I fuck you against this wall, I'm fine with that."

Zag groans, surging forward to crush him against the tiles. His fingers tug Than’s tresses free of the loosening bun, wrapping the lengths around his hand and tugging firmly. "Fuck me. Now."

"Thought you wanted to make me watch you finger yourself open?" Than smirks, leaning over to trace his tongue over the shape of Zag's earlobe and into his ear.

"Thanatos. Be a good VIP megastar and fuck me against this wall right now," Zag loops Than’s hair again around his palm, using his grip as leverage to pull Than’s face closer, their lips hovering scant millimeters apart.

"Gladly," Than whispers, his lips brushing Zag’s, triumph and desire raging so strong in his body he almost feels lightheaded. He flips their positions easily, caging Zag against the tiles and ignoring the sharp tug of his hair pulled taut from his scalp. Zag looks incredible, flushed and hard and powerful with Than’s hair in his fist, a siren calling from the water, irresistible. Than has half a mind to take him now, haul him up into his arms and push inside as quickly as possible, but for all their teasing the last thing he wants to do is risk causing him the slightest bit of pain. He takes a deep breath. "Seriously, though, should I touch you first? Or use my tongue? I don’t want to hurt you."

"I'm good," Zag breathes, releasing Than’s hair and brushing it carefully over his shoulder. “I promise, I’m good. I need you in me.”

Than turns the water off and reaches for the condom. Zag takes it from him, tearing the packet open and rolling it slowly down his erection, taking extra care over the barbell. “Why’d you turn the shower off?”

“I want to hear you,” Than says quietly, unable to resist thrusting up into Zag’s hand the moment the condom is in place.

Zag doesn’t reply, squeezing a few drops of lube onto his covered cock. He wraps his arms around Than’s neck, tugging his face down to kiss him tenderly, the sultry teasing of a moment ago all but forgotten. Than loses himself in the kiss, almost forgetting how unbearably aroused he is as Zag’s tongue swipes gently over his, his face angled to let their mouths slant together to share the deepest of kisses.

Two nights, one day. It’s not enough. It’s not enough.

“Take me,” Zag whispers, breathless, his voice too sombre against Than’s lips.

Than lifts him, hands supporting Zag’s weight where buttock meets thigh, sighing into his mouth at the exquisite sensation of their chests pressed tight together as Zag’s legs wrap around his waist. His heart beats so vigorously that he’s almost certain Zag can feel it through his skin. He presses him against the wall, moving one hand to grip his waist and lining himself up with the other. Hours spent in the gym have only ever been a chore for him, the effects a necessary part of his job, but he finds a new enjoyment in how easy it is to hold Zag in place, helplessly pressed against the tiles as he waits. Than rubs the head of his cock against Zag’s hole, pushing his hips upwards just a little to test whether he’s really as ready as he says he is, relieved to find the ring of muscle softened and yielding.

He lets Zag slide down the wall a little, carefully pushing the first inch inside him. Zag moans, tangling his fingers in Than’s hair and kissing him urgently, rolling his hips to encourage Than to push deeper. The motion squeezes and massages his cock spectacularly, sending bolts of pleasure radiating out from his abdomen, making it impossible to resist letting Zag slide down further. He slides his hand over the back of Zag’s thigh to his hip, holding him in place and letting him acclimate.

“Fuck,” Zag pants, his eyes sliding shut as his strong thighs tense and relax around Than’s hips. “You feel so fucking good.”

“Look at me.” Than presses his forehead against Zag’s, a thrill shooting straight to his heart when he obeys, his eyes lust drunk and full of sensual wonder. Than thrusts up into him, the underside of Zag’s buttocks soft like velvet against his hips, his mismatched eyes drifting closed as he moans. Than wants nothing more than to see Zag’s pleasure, witness the look in his eyes as he fucks him, feel the connection between them beyond their bodies. “Zag, please, look at me.”

Zag’s eyes flicker open, meeting his gaze. Than isn’t sure what Zag sees in his eyes, but he likes the effect well enough, gasping as he rolls his hips, his eyes widening with velvet sharp sensation. Than pulls out a little and thrusts back in, keeping his movements slow and measured. He finds himself mesmerised by the intensity of their bodies moving together. Intrigued by the look in Zag’s eyes. He wonders if he’s merely seeing what he wishes he could see. The seed of something more, something that could grow into a beautiful flower with the right nourishment to feed it.

He squeezes his eyes tight shut, brightness blooming in the dark behind his eyelids as he tries to focus on the physical pleasure alone.

The bathroom is silent but for the slap of skin against skin, their breathy moans reverberating around them. Zag leans to kiss Than’s neck, fingers digging into his shoulders, his swollen cock wedged firmly between them. He mouths his way up Than’s neck, kissing him sloppily, the sound of their mouths moving together mingling with the slick slide of their joining.

Than shifts both hands to Zag's waist, holding him still against the wall and increasing the depth of his thrusts. The change of pace feels incredible, Zag’s body gripping him tight with every thrust. He cries out, breaking the kiss and sinking his teeth into Than's deltoid before letting his head fall back. Than fucks him harder, snaking one arm up his spine and cradling his head, protecting him from the hard tiles.

Pleasure coils and tenses low in his belly. Suddenly he realises he doesn't want to come here, fucking Zag against the bathroom wall. He wants to come holding him in his arms, relishing the feeling of their bodies pressed tight together. He wants to head over the edge together, his hand stroking Zag’s cock, waiting to feel him tighten and spasm before he lets go himself.

"Zag, can we go back to the bed?" he murmurs, slowing his thrusts, letting the blood fattened head tease Zag’s rim.

"Yeah," Zag gasps, peeling his eyes open to stare straight into his soul. "Whatever you want, Than."

He pulls out gently, lowering Zag carefully to the floor, mindful of his already quivering legs. He slides his arms beneath Zag's shoulders and under his knees, lifting him and carrying him out of the bathroom, dipping to kiss him along the way. When they reach the bedroom he lays Zag down on the bed, supporting his weight on his elbows as he covers Zag's damp body with his own, kissing him deeply.

"How do you want me?" Zag murmurs, tracing his fingers over Than's cheekbone, his eyes mellow and soft. Than's lips are drawn back to his, kissing him endlessly, his body simmering with ever deepening appreciation for the gorgeous man beneath him.

"Spooning?" Than asks, brushing Zag's nose with his own.

"Mmm," Zag replies, pushing Than gently to the left side of the bed and rolling over.

Than squeezes his arm under Zag's shoulder, wrapping his forearm over his chest as he tucks himself tightly against his back. Zag takes his free hand and reaches back, positioning Than's cock to help him find a good angle. They sigh together as Than pushes inside, Zag's body jolting as he slides deeper.

"The barbell?" Than whispers, holding him close enough that his overlong hair tickles his nose.

"Yeah. So good," Zag mumbles, pressing back against him. "I love how you feel inside me."

Than kisses the back of his shoulder, thrusting gently and stroking his cock in a slow, languid rhythm. Their joining is less frenetic, like this, so deep and sweet Than almost wishes he could stave off his release forever.

At some point Zag takes the hand resting on his chest, raising it to his lips and pressing an open mouthed kiss to his palm before he sandwiches it back over his thumping heart.

"I want to come with you," Than murmurs. "Together."

"You nearly there?" Zag moans, his fingers tightening between Than’s against his chest.

"Yeah," Than breathes, his lips hot on Zag's neck as he starts pumping his cock faster, feeling his hips strain back as he climbs closer. Zag’s thighs tense and tremble, his breath catching in his throat as he gasps. "Oh, Zag… come with me, fuck, please…"

Zag whimpers as he spills over Than's fingers, his greedy hole clenching hard enough that Than has no choice but to follow, shoving his cock deep inside him once more before he comes, ecstasy exploding white hot through his body, whispering Zag's name like a prayer.

They stay entwined, panting in the dampened sheets with sweat cooling on their skin. Than finds himself clinging to Zag’s upper body, holding his back flush against his chest and brushing shaky kisses over his neck and shoulders. He doesn’t trust himself to say anything, his heart in his throat, his chest already hollow at the thought of everything he’ll lose when he leaves Zag the day after tomorrow.

“Than, you’re nearly crushing me,” Zag chuckles, his smile evident in his voice.

“Sorry,” Than replies, loosening his grip just a little. “You… I…” He swallows, giving up on words.

“I know.” Zag turns his head to kiss his shoulder, letting his lips remain, smudging affection over Than’s skin.

Than nuzzles into the nape of Zag’s neck, exhaustion settling comfortingly over him like a heavy blanket. “Sleep now?”

Zag laughs again, his shoulders moving against Than’s chest. “Yeah. Pull out first, maybe?”

Than sighs grumpily, reaching down with his sticky hand to hold the condom in place as he carefully pulls his softening cock from Zag’s hole. Zag passes him a small bundle of tissues, and it’s all he can do to wrap the condom and wipe his hand before he falls asleep, Zag nestled in his arms.

When Than wakes, he’s lying on his back, Zag cuddled into his side. He almost starts, his sleepy brain surprised and delighted to find Zag naked in his bed. He blinks, memories of the previous night flooding back, a smile slowly spreading over his face.

“God, you’re beautiful,” Zag whispers, his voice soft and low. “I thought you were gorgeous asleep, and then you look like that when you wake up.”

Than rolls over, shuffling into place on the bed so they can lie face to face. “You were watching me sleep?”

“Yeah.” Zag tries to hide his blush by leaning forward to give Than a chaste good morning kiss. “I wake up before my alarm, usually. We’ve got maybe a half an hour before I have to get to work.”

Than glances over Zag’s shoulder at the clock on the nightstand. “Wow, we slept five hours. I’m sorry. I really did want to fuck you all night.”

Zag grins at him, rubbing their noses together sweetly. “It’s okay. I kinda do need to work today, and last night was… amazing. So we’re all good.”

“Half an hour, right? We can work with that,” Than smirks, rolling Zag onto his back and kissing him. He slides a hand between them, fondling Zag’s morning erection. “We can work with this too.”

“You say that like you haven’t been tenting the sheets for the past twenty minutes.” Zag laughs, joyous and bright. “Sit up, okay?”

Than does as instructed, straddling Zag’s thighs and gazing down at the delicious length laid out before him. “Can I suck you off? Please?”

“No time, Than. I have to be actually working in half an hour, and I definitely need a shower.” Than realises he must be pouting, because Zag laughs again. “Okay, Mister Insatiable, compromise?”

“I’m listening,” Than says softly, reaching out to touch Zag’s cock and pouting again when he slaps his hand away.

“You know how to get yourself off quickly. And I know how to get myself off quickly. So how about we carry on with what you started in the shower last night?” Zag bites his lip, his hand drifting down to caress his cock gently.

“Fuck, yes.” Than shuffles a little further up Zag’s thighs, palming his dick and shivering when his knuckles brush Zag’s.

“Watch me touch myself for you. Look at what you do to me,” Zag whispers, wrapping his fingers around himself and moving his hand firmly up and down.

Than licks his lips. He pushes his hips forward, thrusting into his fist as he starts stroking himself harder, eyes flickering between Zag’s hand around his cock and his mismatched eyes, his pupils dilated wide.

Zag moans softly, a blurry, lazy sound in the back of his throat as he locks Than in his gaze, eyebrows raising, his hips bucking slightly. In his peripheral vision, Than sees him stroke himself harder, but it’s the look in his eyes that sends shivers of pleasure through him, tearing his heart wide open. Zag blinks rapidly, clearly fighting the instinct to close his eyes as he pushes closer to orgasm. Than takes a deep breath, his pleasure heightened by the intensity of their connection as his thighs tense over Zag’s. They both begin to pant, drawing in short, gasping breaths, bodies starting to tense as they climb together.

"Fuck, you're the hottest thing I've ever seen," Than rasps, tightening his fingers and shortening his strokes, focusing on the sensitive head and teasing the barbell.

Zag's chest and cheeks are pink, the head of his cock blushing red as it pushes in and out of his fist. Watching him touch himself feels so intimate, intimate and incredibly arousing, the idea that Zag could make himself come just looking at him sending sparks through him. He feels his orgasm build, drawing his muscles tighter as he jerks himself off, eyes focused on Zag.

“Than, I'm gonna come,” Zag gasps, his cock leaking over his fingers as he pumps himself harder. “Come for me. Come all over me right now, please, I need you…”

Than does as he’s told, his fingers shuddering around his length as he comes, striping Zag’s abdomen with creamy fluid, the image in front of him so arousing that he cries out. Zag grabs his thigh, digging his fingernails into the muscle as he lets go, spilling over his fingers and his stomach, his spend mingling with Than’s.

They stare at each other, lips parted, bodies trembling.

“That was so hot.” Zag glances down at his belly, his mouth dropping open slightly at the sight of their combined release decorating his skin. Than pitches forward, trying to press their bodies together to steal a kiss, not caring about the mess, but Zag sits up, pushing at his shoulder to keep some distance between them. He grabs a tissue and wipes his stomach, winking at Than as he does. “Hey, if you do that, we’ll both need to shower right away, and if we shower together, I’ll definitely be late for work. Let’s not give them any more reason to tease us, okay?” He brushes a chaste kiss over Than’s parted lips.

“Alright.” Than concedes, kissing him back before clambering off his legs. “Go shower. I’ll just wait here.” He flops onto the bed beside Zag, stretching in the sheets, a warm glow of satisfaction tugging the corners of his mouth upwards.

Zag leans across, pecking him demurely on the cheek. “I’ll come kiss you goodbye before I go, okay?”

“You better,” Than mumbles, half heartedly trying to drag him down against his body. Zag giggles and slips away, scrambling off the bed and out of the bedroom, giving Than a much appreciated view of his naked ass on the way.

He falls into a light doze, imagining Zag cradled against his chest with no work obligations to drag him away. They would spend the day in bed, he decides, talking and exchanging kisses. Maybe the kisses would turn into more, if they felt like it, and maybe they wouldn’t, enjoying the simple pleasure of holding each other close.

He must have fallen asleep again, because it seems like only a minute later when the mattress dips beside him. He drags his eyelids open, focusing on Zag's knee pressing into the bed by his hip.

“Got to go. See you at breakfast,” Zag whispers, leaning over the bed. He's already dressed in his grey pants and white shirt. He dips down, pressing a tender-soft kiss to his forehead before he leaves, closing the door quietly behind him.

Than rolls over, nestling into the sheets with a pillow crushed against his chest, his heart somehow soaring and aching at the same time.

Chapter Text

Zag manages to change into a fresh uniform and brush his teeth before he bumps into another crew member.

“Zag!” Daniel almost yells, hurrying down the hallway from the crew lounge, a cup of coffee gripped tightly in his hand. “You’re back!”

“Yeah, right on time too.” Zag walks past him into the lounge, seeking a coffee of his own.

Daniel turns and follows him inside, putting his mug down on the counter and folding his arms. “So?”

“So, what?” Zag mumbles, slotting a pod into the machine and pressing the button, his cheeks already flushing. He fixes his gaze on the stream of rich brown ambrosia falling from the spout into his espresso cup.

“How was your evening?” Daniel grins. “Did you like the sushi? Chef was actually pretty happy to make it when I explained what it was for.”

“Really?” Zag turns towards him, disbelief spreading across his face. “Chef was happy to make the sushi? Wow.”

“You know we all love you, Zag. So?” Daniel repeats, grabbing his mug and taking a deep swallow, his foot tapping impatiently on the floor.

“The sushi was great. Thanks for setting Than’s room up, it looked gorgeous. The strawberries and champagne were a lovely touch too.” Zag is certain his blush deepens at the thought of the champagne and strawberries, the memories of exactly what happened with them still fresh in his mind.

Daniel beams at him. “Is he good in bed? Actually, I know you won’t answer that, and if you keep going back he must be. The real question is, what happens after tomorrow?”

Zag feels his face fall, a frown building between his eyebrows. He tries a nonchalant shrug. “He goes back to his life, I carry on with mine.”

“That’s what you want?” Daniel asks carefully, taking a packet of chocolate chip cookies from a nearby cupboard and handing one over.

“Thanks,” Zag mumbles, cramming the cookie immediately into his mouth, grateful for the bland sweetness of it. “What I want doesn’t matter. It was never going to be anything other than a fling.”

Daniel regards him for a moment or two before he hands over another cookie. “You’re falling for him, aren’t you?”

Anna walks into the lounge, nearly squeaking when she sees them. “Falling for him? Are you?”

Zag groans around a mouthful of half chewed cookie. “I could fall for him. But I’m not going to. It’d be a stupid thing to do. He has a career and a life and there’s no way I would fit in, even if I wanted to.”

Daniel and Anna frown at him, their unconvinced expressions almost identical.

“Alright, maybe I would want to,” Zag sighs, letting himself be honest with himself for just a moment. “But it can’t happen. There’s no way.” His shoulders slump, all the tingling lightness of last night evaporating. He leans over the counter, head in his hands, sadness cresting over him at the thought of what he stands to lose.

One day, one night. Then it’s over.

Anna steps closer, rubbing his back in slow, comforting circles. “It’ll be okay, Zag. It hurts now because it’s so fresh. Give it a couple weeks after he’s gone, and you’ll just have great memories.”

“You’re right,” he says, straightening and tossing his espresso back in a single determined gulp. He pushes the sadness down, replacing it with thoughts of the jobs that need to be done aboard the yacht. “I’m being sentimental. Let’s get set up for breakfast, they’ll be up and about soon. Anna, you set the table. I’ll squeeze some juice and talk to Chef. Daniel, you take the laundry?”

“Yeah, no problem,” Daniel smiles.

Anna nods, eyeing Zag carefully as he stuffs one last cookie into his mouth and leads them out of the lounge.

They prepare for breakfast service, time sliding quickly by as the tasks are completed one by one. Within half an hour, the table is set with polished silverware and sparkling glasses, the first load of laundry tumbling in the machine. Zag squeezes a jug of fresh orange juice, moving on to slice some fresh fruit as Chef crafts the delicate pastries their guests have come to love.

Anna dashes into the kitchen, rattling off a list of requests. “One of them seems to be suspiciously hungry this morning, Zag.” She winks, leaving no doubt as to who she means.

Working together, they prepare bacon and scrambled eggs, a bowl of fruit, granola and yoghurt, and two plates of eggs benedict. Zag’s mouth floods as Chef ladles the creamy hollandaise sauce extravagantly over the poached egg topped muffins, hungry despite the cookies. He busies himself, laying the sliced fruit neatly onto a platter and distributing the dishes between himself and Anna to carry to the table.

When they round the corner, Than is already watching for them, his body turned subtly towards the staircase. His amber eyes connect with Zag’s, his lips curving into a smile immediately.

“He’s so into you,” Anna whispers from behind him. “It’s adorable.”

Zag shushes her quietly, trying to keep his smile professional as they approach the table. “Good morning. Your breakfast.”

He places the platter of fruit in the centre of the table, then moves around to hover behind Charon and Than, glancing at Anna to ensure they place the gleaming white plates down before their guests at precisely the same time. A chorus of thank yous rings out, the group snatching up forks, knives and spoons, ready to dig in.

Zag turns, noticing Daniel approaching with a tray of cups. “Ah, and here’s your coffee. Enjoy, please let us know if you need anything.”

“Hey, Zagreus, maybe you can stay and talk us through our options for today?” Meg smirks, slicing into a poached egg, watching as the runny yolk saturates the muffin beneath it.

“Meg,” Than warns. “Come on.”

“What?” Meg grins, playing at confusion.

“Actually, we could do with a recommendation,” Hypnos says, swallowing his mouthful. “Zagreus, what would you recommend on Paros for me, Charon and Meg?” Than shoots him a look. “I’m guessing you and Than will be spending the day together, assuming you don’t have too much work to do?”

“It’s fine, Anna and I have it covered,” Daniel murmurs, stepping around Zag to offer Meg the sugar bowl.

Zag swallows, his skin prickling with a mixture of embarrassment and anticipation. Spending the last full day with Than is the perfect gift, and he instinctively knows what to do with it. “Would you like a day at the beach, perhaps? Something historical? Or wandering the streets of one of Paros’ towns?”

“Beach.” Charon rumbles. “Last day to swim.”

“You make a good point,” Meg says, spearing a chunk of pineapple. “One last beach day sounds great. Zagreus, any particular beach you’d recommend?”

“Santa Maria, maybe. It’s a bit more organised than the other beaches you’ve visited so far. There’s a diving and windsurfing centre, plenty of sun loungers, and a couple of good beach bars too. If you don’t have a recognisable megastar with you, you can afford to go somewhere a little more lively.” Zag shuts his mouth with a snap, appalled at the words falling from his lips. No matter how intimate his relationship with Than, he knows he can’t talk to the others like they’re friends. He glances over at Than, hoping he hasn’t offended or upset him, relieved to find him grinning with amusement.

“Lively sounds good to me,” Hypnos says, his voice tinged with amusement as he looks at Zag approvingly.

Charon and Meg nod, smirking. For a moment, Zag feels like he could actually belong in the group, that they might all become friends with enough time in a different setting. It takes effort to keep his smile professional, to prevent the warmth he feels in his chest expanding out visibly. “Very well, I’ll call ahead and book some sun loungers for you. Any interest in windsurfing or diving?”

“We’ll take the day as it comes.” Meg takes a sip of her coffee. “Thanks, Zagreus.”

“You’re very welcome,” Zag replies automatically.

“Run your plan for Than by Charon, alright?” Hypnos says, dabbing at his lips with a starched linen napkin. “Just to be safe.”

“Of course, sir,” Zag replies. “We’ll leave you to eat now.”

“You can call me Hypnos, Zagreus. And thanks. We’ll hang around here until you tell us it’s time to go.”

Zag slinks off towards the stairs, Than’s gaze burning into his back. He had been worried that serving breakfast this morning would be awkward, but the conversation was far more comfortable than he had expected. Meg’s gentle teasing had even felt affectionate, the kind you’d aim at a friend.

He works with Daniel and Anna to clean and refresh the guest rooms, taking Than’s room himself. He throws the crumpled sheets into the laundry basket, empties the bin of an embarrassingly large number of tissues, and pockets his necklace, still pooled on the nightstand. Once he’s finished, the candles are safely stacked in the cart, the bed made up with clean, crisp sheets, a fresh stock of towels and robes in the bathroom.

He runs into Charon on his way to the laundry room, taking him aside for a moment to explain his plan for the day, going as far as to show him the location he has in mind on his phone. Charon looms over him, nodding silently, flashing him a brief smile before he walks away, seemingly happy with the plan.

A few quick phone calls and half an hour of preparation later, he helps Anna carry a cooler and a bag of towels to a black SUV waiting at the marina. They decided that Anna will accompany Hypnos, Meg and Charon to the beach, with strict instructions to call if anyone needs anything, although he doubts she’ll call even if there’s an emergency. He jogs across the car park to the car rental kiosk, driving the short distance back in the same car they used yesterday.

He sends Than a quick message and puts the car into neutral, looking out over the marina at the many vessels bobbing in the calm waters. The sky is a perfect searing blue, the late morning sun nearly at its peak high overhead. He adores Paros, loves the laid back way of life, the bright white buildings and the lush greenery that surrounds them. He wonders what it must be like to be Than, living in cities and travelling the world, experiencing all the different cultures of the world in such a luxurious style.

The passenger door swings open, Zag’s head whipping round to watch Than fold himself into the car. “Same car as yesterday. What’s the plan, Zag?”

“We have two options,” Zag begins, wishing he could kiss Than hello without worrying about being seen. “There’s a great gentle hike, about two hours, the Byzantine Trail. I thought you might like that. Or, I can take you somewhere I begged to go every year as a kid.”

“The second one,” Than replies without hesitation. “What is it?”

Zag puts the car into gear and pulls away from the curb. “A nature reserve. It’s small, but it’s gorgeous. It’s called Petaloudes. It means Valley of the Butterflies.”

“Sounds pretty,” Than replies. “Charon approves?”

“Yeah, it’s pretty tiny. Asked them to close for a few hours, so it’ll just be us there.”

“You knew I’d choose to go there?”

“I had a hunch, yeah.” Zag glances over, meeting Than’s gaze and reading the smile in his eyes before focusing back on the road.

Zag lowers the windows when they leave the town streets behind them, letting the wind buffet their faces as they drive on across the island to the nature reserve. Than slides his hand onto Zag’s thigh, squeezing gently as he watches the scenery flash past. It’s not a long drive, but Zag enjoys every minute, determined to appreciate the time they have left.

They park on the side of the road a short distance from the gates of the reserve.

"Can I kiss you real quick before we go in?" Than murmurs, already leaning across towards him.

Zag laughs, checking the rear view mirror. "Coast is clear, I think."

Than smiles, cupping Zag's face between his palms and brushing his lips in a gentle, sweet kiss. Their sunglasses bump with a plastic click. Than removes his own shades quickly, making space to deepen the kiss.

"Before you ask, no sex in the car," Zag giggles, his heart already fluttering with the tenderness of Than's kiss.

Than laughs. "I wouldn't even dream of suggesting it, Zagreus." He presses his lips against Zag’s one last time and lets go of his face, pulling back and sliding his sunglasses back on. “How about a quick blowjob?”

Zag punches Than lightly on the shoulder, laughing as he opens the door and climbs out of the car. He pulls his phone out of his pocket and dials as they approach the green painted gates, the heavy bars closed between two white plinths. When the reserve’s owner answers, he announces their arrival and is reassured that someone will be out to let them in shortly.

He leans against one of the plinths, watching Than trace the Greek letters on the sign. “Did you get the help you needed for whatever you’re planning for tonight?”

Than looks over, stepping back from the sign. “Yeah, I managed to catch Anna while you were refreshing the rooms. She was super helpful.”

“You’re not going to tell me what the plan is, are you?”

“Nope. It’s a surprise.” Than smiles, maintaining a careful distance between them. “It’s killing me not being able to casually touch you, you know.”

Zag’s hand twitches, his fingers itching to entwine with Than’s. “I know. Me too.”

An older man approaches, sliding the bolt open and tugging the gates open. “Welcome, welcome. You are Zagreus?”

Zag waves. “Yep, that’s me. Thanks for accommodating our request at the last minute.”

“No problem. We are always happy to have private tours for the right price.” The man ushers them through the gate, shutting it behind them and leading them down the path.

“Wow,” Zag exclaims, taking in the greenery covered wooden frame sheltering clusters of cafe tables and chairs, a small gift shop sitting unobtrusively next to a compact bar. “Looked very different last time I was here.”

“You are a local?” The man asks, stopping in the centre of the seating area.

“Yep. My mama brought me here every year when I was a child.”

“Ah, so you know the stories well enough yourself. Would you like me to guide you and your friend through the reserve, or should I leave you to wander?”

Zag glances at Than, letting him make the call.

“I think we’ll be fine to wander, thanks,” he says, smiling at the man.

“Ah! American. Good thing you have a local to help you see the best part of Paros.” The man winks. “I’ll be in the bar area over there if you would like anything. We serve good granita now, and the gift shop has some lovely things carved from the dead wood we find in the reserve. Enjoy!”

He walks briskly off, leaving Than and Zag standing in the shade beneath the leafy canopy.

“Let’s walk?” Zag asks, setting off down the paved path. The air is cool, shimmering with the rustling of leaves in the breeze and the soft gurgle of a distant fountain. “So, this place is special for a few reasons. There’s a natural spring, which helps keep the ground fertile, so there are hundreds of fruit trees, and even some cypress trees which are over five hundred years old. The position in a valley also means it’s relatively cool, and the spring means there’s a lot of water around.”

“It’s beautiful,” Than says, his gaze flitting from tree to tree, taking in the beauty of nature all around them.

“But that’s not all,” Zag whispers, raising a finger to his lips. “Between June and September, a rare type of butterfly comes here to mate. There are thousands of butterflies all around us.”

“Where are they? I can’t see any,” Than whispers, stepping closer to Zag. “Show me?”

“They’re hard to see, but once you know what you’re looking for, you’ll see them everywhere. Here, see? Black with yellow stripes, looks a little like a leaf.” Zag points to a butterfly resting on the trunk of a tree, hundreds more perched nearby on bark and leaf alike.

“I see them,” Than murmurs, his voice full of subdued wonder. “There are so many, Zag. They’re everywhere.”

“Yeah. No-one quite knows how each new generation finds its way back here. It’s amazing. All these butterflies, finding their way home. I used to love coming here as a kid, trying to count all the butterflies hiding in the greenery.” Zag takes Than’s hand and leads him onwards, following the path that winds between the towering trees.

“It’s so peaceful,” Than breathes. “Thank you for bringing me here.”

“You’re welcome. If we’re lucky, we’ll see some flying. They have a second pair of red wings beneath the black and yellow ones, you can only see them when they’re fluttering around.”

Than strokes his thumb over the back of Zag’s hand, taking off his shades to better absorb the tranquil beauty around him. They walk through the reserve slowly, stopping frequently to breathe in the damp air, to admire the trees heavy with fruit, figs and apricots and peaches in abundance. Thick vines of ivy wind their way around tree trunks, branches and old stone structures, nature reclaiming the space slowly as her own.

“Like a secret garden,” Than mumbles as they skirt a bubbling fountain. “An escape. Just for us.”

Zag glances up at him. His eyes are soft and dreamy, taking in the scenery and at the same time somewhere else entirely. He smiles, squeezing Than’s hand gently in his own, sweetness blooming in his heart as Than squeezes back absentmindedly. He wonders what Than is thinking. Is he simply absorbed in the splendour laid before them, or is he thinking of something else? Is he inspired, a new melody in his head? Zag feels as if he’s only just begun to know him, his desire to know him better so strong it takes his breath away.

He wonders if this is what love feels like.

Tears prickle behind his eyes at the thought. He blinks them away rapidly, glad that Than’s reverie means he’s less observant than normal. The last thing he wants to do is pile more pressure onto him with a conversation about the thing blossoming between them and how he really feels. He has enough going on in his life, he doesn’t need Zag to add to his burdens.

They pass underneath an ancient arch of golden stone, stopping near the ruins of a Byzantine watermill. The faraway look in Than’s eyes dulls any desire to explain its history. Zag feels contentment spread through his chest, standing in such a beautiful place hand in hand with his lover, listening to the sonorous sound of spring water cascading down a rocky wall, falling into a pool below.

Than pulls him into his arms, burying his face in his hair and pressing a kiss on top of his head. Zag inhales deeply, willing the scent of him to brand itself into his lungs, stroking his back slowly. He tips his head upwards, his eyes fluttering closed as Than kisses him, brushing their lips slowly together, tender and utterly devoid of heat.

Something soft collides with his cheek. Zag turns to look, his eyes widening. “Than. Look.”

Than opens his eyes, a joyous smile spreading over his face at the sight.

A small cloud of butterflies surrounds them, fluttering delicately to reveal the crimson red hidden beneath their black and yellow striped wings. Zag feels Than inhale, his hands tightening around Zag’s waist, pure delight shining in his amber eyes.

Zag stretches up to kiss him again, his heart fluttering in his chest like the butterflies drifting around them in the cool air.

Chapter Text

A new melody dances in Than's mind as they drift around the reserve. It quietens a little when they sit down in the cafe area an hour later, both of them opting for strawberry granita, smiling slyly at each other as they order. It returns in full force when they get in the car, gaining new complexity as they drive back to the marine, Zag's thigh warm and firm beneath his hand.

"Zag, do you mind if I head to my room for a while?" Than asks as they pull up in front of the yacht. "There's a song in my head. I need to work on it."

His fingers itch for his guitar. The melody is joined by a set of chords, mellow and bittersweet, a fledgling song waiting to be coaxed into being.

"Of course. What time should I meet you later?"

"About five? I'll come find you on deck."

"Alright. See you later, Than." Zag gives him a little wave and drives off towards the rental car kiosk.

Than strides onto the yacht, humming under his breath. He heads straight to his cabin, taking his Newporter Classic from its case, his fingers automatically finding the chords he wants. It's an effort to put the guitar gently down on the bed, but he forces himself to do it, pulling a notepad from the inside of the case and uncapping the pen stowed in the spiral binding.

He sits on the edge of the bed, placing the notepad down beside him and pulling his beloved guitar into his arms.

The hours flash by in a whirl of chord progressions and melodies, the pages of the notepad filled with messily scribbled notes and half baked lyrics. Than works in a focused daze, the music wrapping around him like the warmest of hugs, imagined harmonies trailing their fingers up his spine and over his scalp.

The haze starts to dissipate, the song birthed onto the paper, sweeter and more melancholic than anything he's written before. A soft knock chases the last tendrils of song away, Than's voice hoarse and heavy when he calls for whoever it is to enter.

Zag peeks around the bedroom door, tension draining from his face when he sees Than sitting with his guitar. "I was starting to worry about you. It's five thirty."

"Shit, I'm sorry." Than winces, a twinge of guilt cutting through his fuzzy creative glow. "I got carried away. Didn't mean to leave you waiting."

"Writing a new song?" Zag asks, his gaze sliding to the notebook on the bed beside him.

Than flips it shut hurriedly. "Yeah. It's not ready yet."

"Okay. Do you still want to head out, or are you in the zone? It's okay if you want to delay your plans, whatever they are." Zag's smile is genuinely warm, with no trace of impatience at all.

Than takes a deep breath, intensely grateful for Zag's selfless support. "Give me ten minutes? Just need to come back to reality." Zag nods, stepping back towards the doors. "No, please stay. It’ll help."

"Alright," Zag murmurs, letting the door close behind him and perching on the armchair in the corner. "Anything I can do for you?"

Than caresses the strings gently. "Just being here is enough. I could play you something? What's your favourite song?"

"Don't worry about me, Than, play whatever you like," Zag smiles.

Than lets his fingers decide, picking out a wistful refrain, automatically repeating it and letting the wistful notes wash over him.

"What song is that?" Zag asks softly.

"Still, by the Foo Fighters. Know it?" Than replies, fingers still playing the simple melody, again and again, letting the repetition draw him slowly towards the surface.

“No, I don’t think I do.” He sits forward in the chair, his eyes following Than’s fingers.

Than opens his mouth and starts to sing, deliberately not using the full power of his voice. The soft, breathy tone of the song feels so good in his throat, effortlessly calm.

“If you'd like to walk a while
We could waste the day
Follow me into the trees
I will lead the way”

Zag smiles, mouthing "beautiful” as he watches. Than smiles back, the compliment more meaningful than any of the awards or the critical acclaim handed to him over the years. He keeps singing, the notes pouring from his mouth, smooth and easy.

“Bring some change up to the bridge
Bring some alcohol
There we'll make a final wish
Just before the fall”

His brain finally remembers the lyrics of the chorus, his stomach dropping as he realises that his subconscious might just be trying to tell him something. Or get him to admit something to Zag. He drops his eyes, gazing at the silvery carpet. He can’t stop himself, letting the freight train barrel towards him, singing on regardless.

“Promise I will be forever yours
Promise not to say another word
Nevermind, what’s done is done
Always was a lucky one”

He swallows, playing the song’s main refrain a couple more times before letting his fingers drift to a stop. The silence in the room thickens, deepening and stretching until he hears a soft creak. He looks up just in time to see Zag crossing the short distance between them, taking his guitar gently from his hands and laying it carefully back in the open case on the floor. He turns back, straddling him, his knees sinking into the bed either side of Than’s thighs as his hands slide slowly into his hair.

Emotion almost overwhelms him when their lips meet, his arms curving around Zag’s back, holding him as close as he can without interrupting the kiss. Their mouths move together, languid and tender until they break apart, Zag resting his forehead against Than’s and looking down at him, loosing a deep sigh.

Than’s heart screams at him to say something. To tell Zag how much he’ll miss him. To ask him to get on the plane with him. Something.

He can’t bring himself to do it.

Zag has a life here. What could he offer, anyway? A secret relationship, always looking over their shoulders, never showing affection in public in case someone catches on and outs them? Zag deserves more than that. He deserves more than a man who’s too afraid to rock the boat by being his true self.

Leaving him tomorrow is the best thing Than can do for him.

He swallows, pressing a light kiss against Zag’s lips. “We should go. We’re already late.”

Zag nods jerkily, clambering out of Than’s lap and walking across the room to open the door. He slips his hand into Than’s as they walk out of the cabin and towards the tender, Than leading the way.

“We’re going somewhere on the coast?” Zag asks quietly, his mismatched eyes sombre.

“You’ll see,” Than replies, nodding at the bosun as they climb onto the tender. “Great, Anna already brought the cooler. Ready to go?”

Zag nods, taking a seat opposite Than, turning his face to the late afternoon sun. He looks upset, his eyes a little watery and his shoulders hunched inwards. It's easy to imagine why when the end of the vacation hovers so close, like a bird of prey waiting for the right moment to swoop down from the sky. The sun only has a few hours left above the horizon, and then they’ll have just a single night left, and then…

Than sighs as the tender takes them around the island, hoping that the surprise he’s arranged will distract them both a little. They stop at a small marina, a few small sailboats anchored on the jetties alongside them.

"You said you liked to sail, so I asked Anna to find us a boat we could take out together. She packed us a light dinner and a couple of beers, too." Than pats the cooler, pasting a bright smile on his face. "I thought we could sail out a little, watch the sunset on the water, and then the tender can take us home. What do you think? Good surprise?" He's surprised at how nervous he feels, the desire to make Zag smile simmering in his chest.

"Perfect surprise, Than. Thank you." Zag hops onto the wooden jetty, holding a hand out in invitation. Than takes it, squeezing gently as he steps out of the tender, carrying the cooler with him.

"Is the boat okay? This one is a boat, right?" Than asks as they walk along the creaking wooden boards, the waves sloshing gently beneath their feet.

Zag eyes the vessel with a professional eye, nodding his approval. "Yeah, this one’s a catboat. They're pretty simple to sail, I can handle this one by myself. You'll need to be careful of the boom, okay? It could swing unexpectedly, knock you into the water."

"What's a boom?" Than follows Zag onto the boat, trying to keep out of the way as he moves around the small space. "What are you doing?"

"This is the boom," Zag replies, patting the horizontal beam at the base of the sail. "I'm checking everything to make sure she's seaworthy before we set off."

Than watches him, impressed by how competent he is. He knows he shouldn't be surprised, Zag has been impressively skillful in a whole host of ways since they met: running the interior crew, dreaming up itineraries, playing tour guide, driving Than around some terrifyingly narrow roads and much more besides. "Hey, Zag, is there anything you can't do?"

Zag glances over from the front of the boat. "What do you mean?"

"I was just thinking about how many things you're good at, from what I've seen since we met. It’s a pretty long list. I was wondering if there's anything you aren't good at."

Zag grins, a subtle flush pinkening his cheeks. "I think I told you before, I'm a terrible liar. Awful poker face. And I really can't dance."

"You can't dance?" Than frowns, surprised. "That's surprising. I think you've got great rhythm."

"Great rhythm? Oh, you mean in bed?" Zag laughs as he darts across the small deck. "Yeah, I can fuck, but I can't dance. Don't ask me to prove it."

"I don't really like dancing myself. One of the reasons why I'm usually clinging onto my guitar in the videos," Than muses. "Can I help with anything?"

"Would you be offended if I asked you to sit on that seat over there, out of the way? Let me get on with it? It'll be faster," Zag smiles apologetically.

"Not at all." Than sits where he's told, shuffling the cooler between his feet. He watches Zag complete his checks, approaching Than with a life vest. He shrugs it on, watching Zag do the same before scurrying to the end of the boat to loosen the rope that tethers them to dry land.

The boat moves smoothly through the water, the marina slowly shrinking behind them as they sail away. Zag moves quickly round the boat, making minute adjustments until they pick up speed.

He squeezes Than's shoulder as he passes, tossing him a carefree smile that eases the tension in his chest. "Sorry, sailing can be a bit boring if you're just watching. Let me get us far enough out for a good view and we'll stop, okay?"

"No problem. Don't worry about me. Why aren't we sailing in a straight line, by the way?"

"That's not how sails work. You have to catch the wind just right to get it to push the boat forward, and if the wind’s blowing directly at the sail you don’t get any momentum. We sail in an s-shaped set of curves, ideally.” Zag dashes off to adjust something before returning. “Okay, I think we’re nearly far enough out. If we drop the anchor facing that way, we’ll see the sun set over the water.”

“I feel kind of bad that the surprise I planned for you has you doing all the work.” Than watches Zag work, adjusting things until they slow to a stop. He hurries to the end of the boat, turning the crank and dropping the heavy anchor into the water with a loud splash.

“It’s okay. You can feed me dinner if it makes you feel better.” Zag flashes him a smile before turning back to test the chain. “We’re good. Let’s just hang out here for a while, wait for the sun to set.”

Than pulls him down onto the seat, kissing him lightly on the cheek. “You’re amazing. Thanks for sailing us out here.”

“You’re welcome.” Zag tugs him closer for a proper kiss, rubbing their noses together as the sea breeze blows their hair around their faces. “Now feed me.”

Than laughs, reaching down between his feet to flip the cooler open. “Is it okay for us to eat here? The boom isn’t going to hit us?”

“It won’t, you can relax.” Zag slides an arm around Than’s waist, stroking his side absentmindedly as he gazes out to sea. “I love being on the water. The yacht’s amazing, but there’s so much joy in these little boats with their one sail.”

Than smiles, his heart warming at the contentment on Zag’s face. He bends to dig in the cooler, pulling out a few boxes of food and two bottles of beer. “Very portable dinner tonight. Tzatziki, veggies and pitta for dipping, vine leaves, and some sliced melon. Want a beer?”

“Please,” Zag replies, taking some of the boxes from Than and placing them on the padded seat beside him. “No spanakopita?"

"Nah, your mother's was incredible. Nothing else will ever come close," Than grins, popping the caps off two bottles of beer, handing one to Zag and putting his own carefully on the floor.

He dips a thick slice of crisp red pepper into the tzatziki, offering it to Zag. He leans forward and bites it in half, chewing happily as he dips a carrot baton into the creamy dip for Than. They feed each other in silence, nibbling contentedly between sips of cold beer. It’s not the fanciest of dinners, but it’s casual and tactile, exactly the sort of thing Than wants for their last night together.

When they’re done he stacks the empty boxes back into the cooler, withdrawing the sliced melon and handing Zag a piece. It’s sweet and juicy, the pale flesh the perfect ripeness, yielding without being too soft, crisp without being tough. They work their way through the slices, sticky juice running down their fingers before being mopped up with paper napkins.

Dinner finished, Than lays his arm over Zag’s shoulders, smiling as he cuddles closer, his head heavy at the junction of Than’s neck and shoulder. He tips his head to the side, letting his cheek rest on Zag’s unruly hair, his free hand reaching to weave their fingers tightly together. The clear blue sky has deepened to a moody blue slashed with wide stripes of pink and orange, the sun sinking to kiss the tranquil waters on the horizon, its reflection shimmering in the waves.

“Such a beautiful sunset,” Zag murmurs, squeezing Than’s fingers.

“I thought you didn’t really appreciate them any more?” Than turns his head, kissing Zag’s temple, savouring the feel of him in his arms.

“Would it be really cheesy to say that sitting here with you, I can’t not appreciate it?” Zag asks quietly, his voice earnest and lacking any levity at all.

“It would. I won’t complain, though,” Than replies, wishing he could capture everything he’s feeling to pore over later.

They watch in silence as the sun slowly dips below the waterline, the colours deepening and fading as they follow in its wake. Time moves stubbornly on, the minutes ticking past no matter how fervently Than wishes he could pause the entire world in this perfect, bittersweet moment.

Eventually the sky turns a stunning violet, the thinnest wash of glowing magenta bleeding into the sky from the horizon.

“Thank you, Than,” Zag whispers as the brightest stars twinkle into visibility high overhead. “Sailing out here with you, watching the sunset. Lovely surprise.”

“Thank you,” Than replies. “I don’t think I could begin to tell you how amazing this trip has been for me. It wouldn’t have been anywhere near as meaningful without you.”

Zag opens his mouth, but no words come out. After a few moments he shakes his head. “We better sail back. As much as I’d love to sit out here under the stars with you, it’s not exactly safe sailing at night.”

“Alright. Can I help?” Than reluctantly removes his arm from Zag’s shoulders, the perfect moment broken.

“Nah. Just stay out of the way of the boom.”

Zag sails them expertly back to the marina, somehow gliding the small boat to a precise stop by the jetty. He secures the boat carefully and jumps onto the sun bleached wooden planks, helping Than off the boat with a steadying hand. Than looks around, surprised to find the marina so quiet, making the most of the opportunity by dipping to kiss Zag’s cheek. They walk around the marina to the tender, rousing the bosun from his nap and setting off across the starlit ocean, the moon reflecting so brightly from the waves that the scene in front of them almost looks as if it’s rendered in black and white.

They jump out of the tender, thanking the bosun and making their way up the stairs.

“What do you want to do?” Than asks, taking Zag’s hand in his and lifting it to his lips, kissing each of Zag’s knuckles in turn.

“I don’t know, what do you want to do?” Zag counters, pulling them into a quiet corner and taking Than’s other hand.

“Do you want to go to bed?” Than gazes down at Zag, his heart torn between wanting to make him come as many times as possible before they part, and wanting to bask in his company.

“Uh…” Zag’s eyes flicker away before coming back to meet Than’s. “I don’t think I do, actually. I’ll probably regret this later, but I’d like to just hold you. Talk. Be close for the last time, you know?”

“I get it. Hey, you remember when we watched a movie out on deck that night?”

“Yeah?”

“I spent most of that movie thinking about how great it would be to laze on a couch with you, under the stars, snuggled under a blanket or something. What do you think?”

Zag smiles at him sadly. “Sun deck, where we won’t be disturbed?”

Than nods, dropping one of Zag’s hands and leading him through the yacht to the sun deck. The hot tub is covered, the loungers set around it gleamingly clean. “Hmm. Know where we can find some blankets?”

“Yeah, of course. One sec.” Zag lifts one of the loungers, revealing a hidden storage compartment filled with soft fleecy navy blue blankets and silver cushions. "Assuming we're sharing?"

"You assume correctly," Than smiles, grabbing a couple of cushions as Zag bundles a blanket into his arms. He slides onto the cool surface of one of the loungers, arranging the cushions at head height and turning to Zag, arms spread wide.

Zag cuddles in, dragging the blanket over them. It's not particularly cold in the fresh night air, far from it, but the blanket around them makes Than feel like they're cocooned together in a world all their own, completely alone under the endless starry sky. He points up, tracing the outline of Perseus and then Andromeda.

“You remembered,” Zag mutters, his face turned up to the sky.

“Of course I did. How could I forget?” Than swallows, a lump building in his throat as he thinks about all the memories he’ll take with him from the past twelve days.

He tries his best not to think of everything he’ll leave behind.

Chapter Text

Zag lies comfortably against Than’s chest, the blanket wrapped around them deepening the cosy warmth he feels throughout his body. It feels like a good time for reminiscing, remembering the good times they’ve had over the past twelve days and avoiding talking about what the future won’t hold.

“Remember when you first came aboard?” he asks, taking Than’s hand and placing it on his belly, fitting his fingers around his.

“Yeah, when you were wearing that extremely tight polo shirt?”

Zag snorts. “Yeah. I literally bumped into Daniel, spilled water on my shirt five minutes before you were due to arrive. I changed while jogging between the crew quarters and the main deck, didn’t realise I’d accidentally picked up the wrong size.”

“Ah, that explains it. I didn’t really know what to think, but I wasn’t really thinking at all. Just admiring. I could almost see the outline of your nipples, you know?”

“Is that why you were so grouchy? Because you were distracted by my nipples?” Zag giggles.

“Shit, I thought I was being a bit brusque. Your smile wobbled a few times,” Than replies, turning his face to kiss Zag’s cheek. “I was distracted, yeah. Not just your nipples. Your face, your arms, your chest, your ass… Very distracted. Who wouldn’t be?”

“Once I stopped worrying that I’d pissed you off, I was pretty distracted myself. I remember telling myself off for eyefucking you.” Zag grins as Than’s chest vibrates with laughter beneath his shoulder. “I thought you’d be shorter.”

“Shorter?” Than asks, sandwiching Zag’s hand between his over his stomach. “Why?”

“I’ve met a few movie stars who are a lot shorter than they look on screen, trust me.”

“My height is right there on my Wikipedia page, Zag.”

“Yup, same with the movie stars. Can’t believe everything you read on Wikipedia, you know?” Zag grins. “Actually I might edit your Wikipedia page, take a few inches off your height. Just for fun.”

Than laughs. “Do your worst, Zagreus, do your worst.”

“I wonder if I could get away with adding more about a certain secret piercing…” Zag muses, pressing his lips together to prevent a bubble of laughter from spilling free.

Than flips them over, caging Zag against the lounger, the blanket tangling between their legs, a huge grin on his face. “You wouldn’t.”

“Wouldn’t I? Guess you’ll have to wait and see.” Zag wiggles his eyebrows, laughing as Than starts tickling him, trying to buck him off and failing to move his larger frame an inch. “What are you doing? Stop!”

“I dunno, seemed like the right thing to do in the moment,” Than replies, his fingers stilling on Zag’s side. “Please don’t write anything on Wikipedia about my piercing. Keep it between us.”

“Of course, I was only joking,” Zag whispers, reaching up to cup his face. “I won’t tell anyone anything about what happened between us. I promise.”

“Thank you,” Than murmurs, kissing him slowly, the tip of his tongue swiping over his lower lip briefly. 

“Thanks for trusting me, Than,” Zag says abruptly, pressing a soft kiss against his lips. “I know this whole thing has been a huge risk for you. I can’t even imagine what it must feel like to have to worry so much about what people think of you. And I know putting all that to one side to be with me these past days must have been a big deal. Thank you.”

Than lets a little more of his weight drop onto Zag, pressing their bodies closer. “You’re worth it, Zag. And you risked a lot for me, too. I’m glad your job is safe despite everything that’s happened between us. And I’m thankful, too. So many firsts for me, this trip. You made everything feel natural. Easy as breathing. Thank you for that.”

“Nothing more than what you deserve,” Zag murmurs, tugging Than’s face down and kissing him deeply, trying to inscribe the comfort from the weight of his body into his heart.

They kiss and kiss and kiss, neither of them nudging the kisses or the body contact towards anything sexual. Lying in each other’s arms, kissing unhurriedly as if the end doesn’t lie just ahead of them, it feels like something more pure than lust. Something that’s maybe worth fighting for. If only things were different.

Than sighs, kissing him once more before rolling him onto his side, facing away from him. He fits himself close against Zag’s back, tugging his body back and rearranging the blanket around them. 

“I feel like a burrito,” Zag mumbles, luxuriating in the feeling of Than’s arms wrapped tightly around him. 

“The best kind of burrito.” Than kisses the back of his neck, sending shivers down his spine. “You like burritos?”

“I like being part of a Thanatos burrito. But yeah, they’re okay. Mexican food is kind of hard to find here, I’d like to go to Mexico one day and try the real thing.”

“Burritos are more Mexican American, I think. I’ve had some great ones in California, but when I played Mexico City I didn’t really see any. Amazing chilaquiles for breakfast, though. Had to hide those from Hypnos. Corn tortillas, cheese and fried eggs aren’t exactly the kind of breakfast foods my nutritionist wants me to eat.”

“Sounds delicious. You’re so lucky, travelling all the time. Can you believe I’ve never left Greece?”

“I can kind of understand why. It’s so beautiful here, idyllic even. You wouldn’t consider doing what the old chief steward did, transfer to the Caribbean or something?”

Zag swallows, amazed that Than remembers such a tiny detail from a conversation they had over bowls of pasta at his friend’s apartment, days ago. “I don’t know. I’d love to travel, but I really love Greece. And I like working on the Agape Mou.”

“I get it,” Than says, sliding his hand underneath Zag’s shirt and laying his palm flat on his stomach. “I meant to ask you, what does Agape Mou mean?” 

Zag’s brain stutters to a halt. He’s worked aboard the yacht for so long that its name has transcended the meaning, but the phrase has a meaning nonetheless. A thrill shoots through his chest, imagining saying the words to Than in a different context, in Greek or English, maybe both.

“Zag?” Than sits up slightly, leaning over him. “You okay?”

“It means my love,” Zag whispers.

He feels Than settle back down behind him. “Oh.”

An uneasy silence settles over them. Zag wonders about the thoughts running through Than’s mind. Does he wish the words had a deeper meaning for them? Does he feel the same heavy, regretful sweetness in his mouth? Does he also wish that they could be together properly, publicly, free to love and be loved?

A cool breeze blows over the sun deck, ruffling Zag’s hair and sending a shiver down his spine.

“You cold?” Than’s arms tighten around him.

“A little,” Zag says, bending the truth, glad that Than can’t see his face to catch him in the lie. He’s perfectly warm cuddled up beneath the blanket with Than, the only chill coming from the inevitability of what happens tomorrow.

“Want to go inside?” Than asks, his breath warm against Zag’s ear. He nods, not making any move to extricate himself from the blanket. “Will you stay with me tonight?”

“Of course. Nowhere else I’d rather be,” Zag says quietly, throwing the blanket back and sliding out of Than’s arms.

They pack the blanket and cushions away, walking slowly down the staircase hand in hand. Hypnos, Meg and Charon sit on the couches on the main deck, tumblers of whiskey in front of them, their eyes flickering over at the sound of their footsteps. Zag loosens his grip on Than’s hand, surprised when Than’s hand clasps tightly around his own, nodding at his brothers and Meg as they walk past. It feels good, being seen together, not just together but together, a tiny taste of a feeling Zag wishes he could drown himself in.

They brush their teeth side by side in Than’s bathroom. Zag glances at the toiletries strewn around the space, imagining cleaning the pristine marble after he leaves tomorrow. 

Than’s already in bed when Zag enters the bedroom. He flips the corner of the duvet open, inviting Zag to slip into his side of the bed. “Want to watch more shitty reality TV with me?”

“Sure,” Zag replies, climbing into the bed and immediately cuddling up against Than’s beautiful body, relieved that he’s wearing underwear just as Zag is. Sad sex would make for a terrible last night together.

Than hands him the remote, waiting for him to navigate the yacht’s system to find another episode of Love Island. They lie quietly, pretending to watch the TV, until Zag’s yawning becomes too obvious. Than turns off the TV, drawing Zag close and kissing him thoroughly, holding him close. They don't speak, each aware that there are no words that can adequately fill the emptiness that approaches. They cling to each other, fingers stroking meaningless patterns onto each other's skin until they fall asleep, Zag's head pillowed on Than’s shoulder, his hand laid over his chest.

When Zag wakes up, his stomach hurts. He extricates himself carefully from Than’s arms, hardly daring to breathe as Than grumbles under his breath before he rolls over, curling up on his side. His breathing is slow and even, and for a moment Zag simply sits and watches him sleep, fingers itching to brush the hair away from his face to kiss him one last time.

Instead, he creeps away from the bed, scribbling a quick note on the notepad set at the corner of the desk, tearing the paper quietly from the pad and folding it in half to leave on his side of the bed.

Than - I’m so sorry for leaving you to wake up alone. The thought of kissing you for the last time is just too much for me to take right now. 

Thank you for everything. I’ll never forget you. - Z

He bundles his clothes in his arms and slips out of the door, getting dressed in the dim light of the hallway. He walks slowly to the crew quarters, grabbing a fresh uniform from his cubby and taking a quick shower, his sadness weighing his limbs down and making every movement feel like a gargantuan effort. 

“Zagreus, what are you doing here?” Anna hisses, ducking out of the crew lounge and grabbing his arm. “Why aren’t you in bed with Than, or at least bringing him breakfast in bed while we sail back to Rethymno?”

He looks away, tears prickling behind his eyes. “It hurts too much, Anna, I can’t say goodbye to him.”

Her eyes soften, pulling him in for a hug. “I know it hurts. But you’ll regret it if the only goodbye you get is the formal one on deck. You know you will.”

“But…” he sighs, letting his head fall into her shoulder.

“No buts about it. Smells like Chef’s just taken some pastries out of the oven. Go take some to your man. We’ve got hours til we dock in Rethymno, go kiss him while you still can. Help him pack, I don’t care. Just don’t avoid him. I promise you’ll regret it.”

“You’re right,” Zag says, biting his lip. “Thanks, Anna.”

“Just remember this next time you tell me my hospital corners aren’t crisp enough, okay?” Anna winks. “I’ll handle breakfast service with Daniel. I’ll tell the others you and Than are having breakfast together?”

“Yeah, please. Thanks again,” he calls as he hurries down the hallway to the kitchen. Maybe if he’s fast enough, he can get back to Than’s room before he wakes up and sees the note.

Zag grabs a tray and loads it with a cafetiere of rich, dark coffee, a small jug of milk, two glasses of orange juice, and a plate of fresh golden brown pastries. Chef even helps him, knocking his hand away from the baking sheets to pile the pastries prettily onto the plate, adding small dishes of jam and butter for good measure.

When Zag pushes Than’s bedroom door open, the tray balanced carefully on his hand, he finds Than sitting up in bed, the note in one hand and the VIP phone in the other. He turns to the door, the sorrowful expression on his face immediately dissolving into happy surprise.

“You came back,” Than whispers, placing the note and the phone onto the nightstand. “I was just wondering if I should text you, and you… you came back.”

“I’m sorry,” Zag says softly, placing the tray carefully at the end of the bed. “Anna told me I’d regret it if the only goodbye we get is the formal one on deck before you disembark. She’s right. I just… I don’t want to say goodbye.”

Than slides his long legs out of the sheets, walking around the bed to pull Zag into his arms. “I know. I don’t want to say goodbye either. I’m going to miss you, Zagreus.”

“I wish things were different,” Zag murmurs, pressing his cheek against Than’s sternum, breathing in the scent of his skin. 

“Me too. Me too.” Than buries his nose into Zag’s damp hair. “Thanks for breakfast.”

“You’re welcome,” Zag replies automatically. “Want to eat it in bed together?”

“Please.”

Zag removes his uniform quickly, draping it over the armchair in the corner so it won’t crease. He slides into the sheets, enjoying the warmth of Than’s thigh pressed against his, pouring them a cup of coffee each and toasting Than with his orange juice. They eat slowly and quietly, nibbling at the flaky golden pastries and tearing croissants open to smear them with butter and jam. Eventually all that remains are crumbs and the coffee grinds at the bottom of the cafetiere.

“How long do we have?” Than asks, getting out of bed to put the tray on a side table.

“Maybe three and a half hours before we dock in Rethymno.”

“Okay, so three hours to kiss you, half an hour to shower and pack.” Than smirks, kneeling on the bed and sliding his hand into Zag’s hair.

Zag laughs. “Or, you shower while I take the tray back and double check the timings, then I help you pack, and then we spend the rest of the time kissing?”

“You could shower with me?”

“I already showered, Than. And I…” Zag pauses, glancing down at the silver grey carpet before wrenching his gaze back up to meet Than’s amber eyes. “I don’t want our last time to be all sad, okay?"

"I get it," Than tips his face up, leaning forward to brush his lips against Zag's. "Meet you back here soon?"

"Yep. I'll bring your case from the storage area. Want a drink or anything?"

"Nah, I'm all good. See you soon." 

Than leaves Zag to get dressed again before he takes the empty dishes from their breakfast back to the kitchen, stacking them in the dishwasher neatly before checking in with the Captain on the bridge.

Three hours till they dock at Rethymno. Realistically speaking, that gives him two and a half hours to snuggle with Than before he has to prepare the yacht for disembarkation. He collects Than's empty case, wheeling it through to his cabin via his cubby. Zag lets himself into Than's cabin, walking the case down the hallway and opening the bedroom door. 

The moment he steps over the threshold, Than pushes him against the wall, tangling his fingers in Zag's hair and kissing him deeply. "Missed you."

It's all Zag can do to smile weakly at him, brushing damp strands of hair back from his face and stretching up to kiss him. "Can I help you pack?"

"If you don't mind. I'm terrible at folding things. To be honest, someone usually packs for me." Than has the decency to look at least a little sheepish at the admission.

"Not sure I'd be comfortable with someone touching all my clothes like that," Zag murmurs, pushing Than gently away and lifting the case onto the bed. "Bring me things and I'll fold and pack them, okay?"

Working together, they quickly pack Than's clothes, shoes, accessories and toiletries away in the case. Zag zips it securely shut and hauls it off the bed, leaving it by the bedroom door. "I'll take it out for you when I go, alright?"

"Thanks," Than murmurs, his eyes solemn. "Lie with me until it's time?"

Zag nods, crawling onto the bed and holding his arms open wide, no longer caring whether his clothes crease. The time passes by too quickly, each kiss and caress expanding to gobble up the minutes, words drying up the closer they get to the moment they must let each other go.

Inevitably, their time runs out. 

Zag kisses Than one last time, pressing their foreheads together and gazing into his amber eyes, knowing his own eyes reflect Than's anguish back at him. He can't bring himself to say the words, simply pressing a butterfly soft kiss against the smooth damp skin of Than's cheek before he leaves the room, closing the door quietly behind him. 

He works through the last few tasks before disembarkation in a daze, printing out the final invoice and sliding it into a folio for Hypnos and double checking that the cars will be ready to whisk their guests to the private airfield. They dock, the yacht's engines cutting into silence, the gangway spanning the distance between yacht and marina for the last time. The cars are already waiting. Zag helps load them full of baggage, a lump growing in his throat as he slides Than's case neatly into place. 

He strides back aboard, lining up with the rest of the crew, taking his place next to the Captain. Their guests file past, one by one, shaking hands with the crew and offering their thanks. Megaera smiles at him sadly, Hypnos squeezes his hand, and Charon thumps his shoulder, perhaps a little harder than strictly necessary. 

Than tangles their fingers, his amber eyes soft, stroking his thumb over the back of Zag's hand. He slides his palm up Zag's arm, patting his shoulder gently, taking a breath as if he's about to speak before sighing deeply. 

"Than," Hypnos calls, not unkindly, his voice a sympathetic warning.

Than looks away, his hand falling from Zag's shoulder. His jaw tenses before he mumbles something under his breath, and suddenly he's dipping to press a single sweet kiss against Zag's lips, right there on deck, surrounded by the crew and his family.

Zag vaguely hears Hypnos cursing through the sound of his heart stuttering painfully in his chest. Than walks down the gangway, sliding into the back seat of one of the cars. He doesn't look back. 

Beside him, Anna places a hand between his shoulder blades, stroking reassuringly as they watch the cars drive away. As his heart shatters into a million needle sharp fragments in his chest.

Chapter Text

Hypnos wisely keeps his mouth shut as they pull away from the marina. Than stares out of the window, watching the yacht disappear into the distance as they drive towards the airfield. He feels almost nothing at all, his heart a precious object wrapped in bubble wrap so thick you can barely make out what's inside.

He arranges his limbs deliberately, slipping into a contrived relaxed slouch even though all he wants to do is curl up into a ball until the emptiness inside him goes away. Already the memories of the past twelve nights are growing fuzzy, tiny moments of clarity standing out from the blur.

Zag's upside down face against the bright blue sky, smiling down at him when he woke from his nap in his mother's garden.

Zag's finger, dripping warm water from the hot tub as he traced the constellations in the night sky.

Zag's messy hair, painted with flashes of pink, yellow and blue from the TV, hiding his sleeping face pillowed on Than's chest.

He turns the memories over and over in his mind, holding them at arm's length to avoid puncturing the protective blankness cosseting his heart. He knows he's in trouble when he realises the memories at the forefront of his mind aren't sexual.

They reach the airfield, the officials checking their documents as they wait in the cars.

"You alright?" Hypnos asks softly.

"Yeah," Than sighs. "Time to get back to reality, I guess. Good vacation, Hyp?"

"It was great. The Cyclades are beautiful, I'm happy we got to see so many of them. Good food, sunshine, spending time with my best friends, what's not to love?"

Than makes a non-committal noise, watching Hypnos take their passports back through the window. The car creeps forward, pulling up a short distance from the jet which awaits them. He climbs the steps, throwing himself into a leather recliner and immediately dragging his headphones out of his bag. Charon squeezes his shoulder as he walks past, taking a seat behind him as Hypnos and Meg settle on the couches.

"Hey, Hyp?" Than turns, noticing how quickly his brother's gaze snaps to meet him. "Am I heading straight back to the penthouse?"

"Up to you," Hypnos replies. "I booked you a suite in case you wanted to rest before the project manager runs you through the renovations. They're on standby either way. Dusa already moved back in to familiarise herself with everything."

"A rest sounds good, thanks. Guessing you guys are all heading home from the airport?"

"I'll come with you," Charon states as Meg and Hypnos nod.

"Thanks," Than mutters. He slides his headphones over his ears and looks for something loud and angry to listen to.

The jet taxis a short distance before the engines speed up, propelling them down the runway and lifting them into the air. He glances out of the window, watching the sun baked landscape slip away, replaced by the sparkling sea.

Than leans back, closing his eyes. A twelve hour flight and a seven hour time distance will have them land in New York in the late afternoon. He's experienced enough jetlag in his life that he knows he'll be able to function even if his mind and body think it's night time, and he's navigated time differences enough times to know sleeping now will help minimise the fuzziness.

He shifts in the seat, trying to find a comfortable position, trying not to think about how cosy he was this morning, lying on the bed in Zag's arms after breakfast.

Eventually he falls into a fitful doze, sharp edged memories stabbing through the haze, though never penetrating to his bubble wrapped heart.

When he wakes, Hypnos, Meg and Charon are seated at the table, listening to the steward relay their lunch options. He struggles to his feet, lurching through the space to join them, sinking into the unoccupied leather seat.

The steward opens her mouth, preparing to repeat her menu monologue. "It's okay, I heard enough. Chicken salad, please."

The others place their own orders and the steward melts away, vanishing into the galley.

"Back on the wagon?" Hypnos asks, smiling warmly.

"Yeah. Vacation's over, time to focus on the future and stop eating carbs all the time." Than plasters a smile on his face. He can feel the professional mask floating close by, the easy conformity ready to snap back into place as soon as they touch down in New York.

Meg nods approvingly, Hypnos echoing the movement. Out of the corner of his eye he sees Charon regarding him coolly, his face impassive.

"Than, what do you want to do with this Sophia thing?" Meg flips the cover on her iPad, flipping through the alerts she has set up for Than's name. "We can probably arrange a dinner in the next week or so if you're open to continuing the story. You're booked on that late night talk show in six weeks, if you really want to lean in we can discuss you going on together."

"Bit soon," Charon mumbles, frowning at Meg across the table.

"It's okay." Than leans to the side, bumping Charon's shoulder with his own. "I'd rather leave it. She invited me into her suite and I turned her down, so there's a risk of her making a statement at some point if we try to keep up the act."

"No problem. I'll brainstorm some other ideas. Maybe now the apartment's done we can schedule an at home with feature," Meg muses.

"Cool. We also better start figuring out the new album, Than. Need to start planning as soon as possible. Got any material lined up?" Hypnos raises his eyebrows hopefully.

"I started writing a new song on the yacht. Got a couple ideas kicking around, I'll get started for real when I'm back in the apartment. Can we keep my schedule clear for the next few weeks? I'd like to focus on writing," Than replies.

A goal. That's what he needs. Something to focus on. A few weeks by himself, messing around with his guitars, his piano, his drums, and inspiration will hit him, letting him lose himself in the creative process. If he gets blocked, he'll drum it out, exhaust himself in the gym, whatever, he's been doing this long enough that he knows how to shake himself out of a block if he needs to.

"Of course. Once you've got some material, we can use it as a bargaining chip with the label for another deal," Hypnos nods.

The steward brings four glasses and a bottle of water, serving them in turn before she slots the condensation clouded bottle into the cooler under the window. A few minutes later she returns with their food, served in small, dainty portions on gold trimmed china.

When the plates have been cleared away, the steward brings a bowl of fresh strawberries. Than's mouth floods, remembering the berry bright flush kissing Zag's cheeks when he trailed a heart shaped strawberry over his cock. He makes a vague excuse about being full, escaping back to the recliner and turning his music back up, drowning out his thoughts.

Hours later, they land at JFK, taxiing to the private terminal and stepping off the plane straight into a procession of black SUVs. Charon slides in next to Than, leaving Meg and Hypnos to travel to their apartments a few floors down from Than’s penthouse. The drive into the city takes forever, the late afternoon traffic thick and syrupy as usual.

“Alright?” Charon rumbles, turning to look Than’s way.

“I’m fine,” Than snaps, rolling his eyes. “You don’t need to treat me like I’m made of glass. I knew what was going to happen, it happened, I’m already over it.”

Charon regards him silently, his dark eyes gentle.

Than blows out a breath, already regretting his outburst. “Sorry. I’m sorry, Charon, I know you’re asking because you care. I’ll be fine, promise. Give me a few days to get used to the real world again.”

“It’s not weak to admit you’re hurting, Than.” Charon turns away, a chorus of honking punctuating his older brother's wisdom.

Eventually they pull up outside the Mercer, Charon sliding out first to clear the path to the lobby before Than follows. The manager whisks them directly upstairs, checking them in in the comfort of Than's suite. Than hands the spare keycard to Charon and waves him off as he's escorted to his own room down the hall.

Than wanders into the bathroom and eyes the tub. A moment later he's pouring an excessive amount of bubble bath into the rushing water and pulling his clothes off, leaving them in an untidy pile on the white tiled floor. When the tub is half full he sinks into the hot water, sighing as the bubbles pop and fizz against his chin.

Alone in the silence, the hot water soothing his travel weary body, he thinks back to the moment they parted.

He knows it was stupid to kiss Zag on deck, right in front of the crew, his brothers, Megaera and anyone else who might have been watching. He just couldn't help himself, gazing down into Zag's watery eyes, the urge to comfort him too strong to resist.

Than sighs, sinking deeper into the water, letting his hair float around him. He doesn't want to confront his feelings for Zag. He wants to lock them in a steel box and throw away the key. He can’t be in love with a man. He just can't. Being in love with Zag will lead to nothing but heartache and misery.

A tiny voice in the back of his mind whispers that it's too late.

Than imagines his public persona settling over him, a thin shell of don't give a fuck attitude and emotional aloofness expanding over his skin, hardening until it's impenetrable. Whatever feelings he might have for Zag, he knows he has to bury them deep.

He glances at his phone, noting the time. Six in the evening in New York, one in the morning in Greece. He wonders where Zag is sleeping tonight. In his bunk on the yacht, in his childhood bed, somewhere else entirely? For a moment Than regrets not having visited the crew quarters, defaulting to imagining him curled up in his childhood bed, snuggled under the duvet on his side, knees drawn up. Did he fall asleep quickly, or did he shiver, his back cold compared to the previous night? Has he opened the envelope Than left just for him?

Than hauls himself out of the bath, drying his skin roughly with a fluffy towel, remembering how Zag’s eyes had flickered straight to his cock when he’d brought Than extra towels in the bathroom that afternoon. He catches himself, shaking the memory from his mind’s eye. He texts Charon, asking if he wants to get room service.

Than unzips his case, flipping through the neatly folded clothes until he finds pyjama bottoms and a tank top, skinny jeans and a tight black t-shirt. He dresses, draping the jeans and t-shirt over the back of a chair for the morning, hoping he can get into his apartment early. The handoff from the project manager should be quick, as should greeting Dusa, and then he can focus on putting his life back together in a world where Zag is just a memory tucked away so deep no-one can see him.

His phone beeps, Charon offering to order and bring the food over. Than taps out a quick reply, asking Charon to order him a burger and a beer and requesting that he hide the bill from Hypnos. Charon replies with a string of laughing emoji, drawing the tiniest of smiles from Than’s lips.

A short while later, Charon knocks on the door, a few seconds passing before the lock whirrs to grant him entrance. He carries a large tray, two covered plates and two frosty bottles of beer placed upon it.

“You slept early. I ate enough for two,” he winks, placing the tray down on a dark wood coffee table.

Than grins, hugging his brother briefly before he drops to sit on the sofa, popping the beers open and handing one to Charon. They tap the bottles together once before they dig into their burgers, the illicit bread sweet on Than’s tongue.

“Charon.” Than takes a mouthful of beer, swallowing thoughtfully. “You love Hermes?”

“Of course,” Charon replies through a mouthful of food.

“If you love him, why do you guys fight and make up so often? Why isn’t it easy for you?”

“Love isn’t easy. We have different lives.”

“But if you love each other, why can’t you just choose to be together and that’s that?” Than frowns.

“We choose every day.” Charon turns to face him. “Love is choosing each other every day, even when things are tough. Carrying on together anyway.” He turns back to his burger, taking another gigantic bite.

Than lets the words sink in, his tired mind turning them over and over, seeing the truth in them and yet at the same time wondering why it can’t be easy. Years of writing and singing idealistic love songs has convinced him that love is either the source of every joy in your life, or something that stabs you in the heart with pain. One or the other, never both at the same time.

He wonders if he’ll ever experience the realities of it for himself. Loving and being loved, compromise and heartache and joy all at once.

Charon takes the plates when he leaves, closing the door behind him with a sympathetic smile. Than barely has the energy to brush his teeth before he collapses into the soft white sheets, falling almost immediately into a deep and thankfully dreamless sleep.

The next day Than meets the project manager at his penthouse and is led enthusiastically through the transformed space. He admires the contrast of the bright white painted interior walls with the exposed brick of the exterior walls, the windows framing the views over SoHo perfectly. The furniture looks great, the style a mix of stark modern and casual that looks sophisticated and comfortable at once. The art that turns the apartment from a house into something that could be a home, gigantic canvases and sculptures Than chose himself interspersed with recommendations from the interior designer.

The music room is his favourite part. Better even than his bedroom with its gigantic industrial steel framed bed. The walls ripple with soundproofing panels, a collection of gold and platinum records lined up neatly on the wall between the drumkits. There's a custom fitted storage room for his guitar collection, his favourites hanging from specially made pegs on the wall. Mom's old piano is tucked into the corner, the scuffed bench pushed neatly beneath the keyboard.

"Some people would call you crazy for turning the master bedroom into a music room, but it turned out well, don't you think?" The project manager smiles.

"I love it," Than murmurs, turning slowly in the middle of the space, his fingers already itching to play. "The renovations have all turned out even better than I expected. Your firm has done a great job."

"Thank you, sir. We appreciate the opportunity very much." The project manager leads Than out of the music room and down the hall, stopping by the imposing front door. "I'll leave you to enjoy your new home, unless there's anything else we can do for you?"

"No, nothing at all. Thank you again."

The project manager gives him a little wave and lets himself out, pulling the door closed behind him. Than goes in search of Dusa, his housekeeper, finding her in the kitchen, pulling drawers and cupboards open one by one.

"Mister Than!" she squeals, running at him full pelt and giving him a warm hug. "You're back! I'm so happy to see you. Like the new place?"

"Yeah, it looks great. You rearranging the kitchen already?" Than hugs her close, lifting her off the ground until she giggles.

"I don't know who put everything away, but it wasn't quite right. I'll show you where everything is later? So you can cook when you're in the mood?"

Than nods. "Thanks, Dusa. You well?"

"Of course, I had a lovely time with my sister, although I'll admit I'm happy to be back home now. How was your vacation?" she squeals, slapping her palm over her mouth.

"Oh, you were in on that too?" Than chuckles. She nods, guilt splashed over her face. "It's okay. Hyp was right, I needed a break. Had a great time, thanks."

"Are you seeing the supermodel again?" Dusa bounces lightly across the kitchen, grabbing a glass and filling it with filtered water.

"It was a setup, Dusa. Nothing there at all," Than replies, taking the glass from her outstretched hand and drinking thirstily.

"Oh! What a shame. It's been ages since you had someone." Dusa takes the empty glass to the dishwasher. "I'll just get on with the laundry. Chicken salad for lunch, yes?"

"Sure, thanks. Hey, are the renovations in your wing alright? Everything the way you wanted it?"

Dusa laughs, her green tipped locs swaying around her head. "Don't worry about me. Everything is lovely, far lovelier than I need. Thank you, thank you."

"It's the least I can do. See you in a few hours." Than slips out of the kitchen, hands tucked in the pockets of his jeans.

He wanders through the open plan living space and down the stairs, passing the door that leads to his bedroom and the ensuite bathroom. He passes the closed doors of the guest rooms, pausing in the doorway of his music room.

He kicks the door gently shut behind him, perching on the stool of his acoustic kit and selecting a pair of drumsticks from the rack. The bass drum sounds like a heartbeat, pounding strong and steady, spurring his hands into movement until they're flying through the air in tandem with his feet. The rhythm is less rock, more blues, conscious thought slipping away as he lets the music flood his mind.

An hour later he's covered in a fine sheen of sweat. He stands, grabbing a towel from a shelf and wiping himself down before he picks up his current favourite guitar, a Fender Stratocaster lacquered in a shimmering gradient that runs from black to burgundy. He plugs it into the amp and plays a single chord, appreciating how the sound spreads and rebounds in the room. The melody he worked on in his cabin at the yacht flows from his fingers, shifting and evolving as he plays and plays and plays, inspiration sparkling in his brain.

Chapter Text

Zag throws himself onto the couch in the crew mess, rolling onto his back and groaning loudly. Their next charter begins tomorrow and he keeps finding new reasons to miss Than. There are the obvious reasons, of course - the ones that involve the realisation that it’s highly likely he’s unintentionally fallen in love with a closeted, completely unattainable man who he’ll never see again. And now there are the less obvious ones, starting with the briefing sheet for the next client, a famous movie star and her less famous but very powerful mogul husband and their entourage.

Zag remembers reading Than’s briefing sheet, which lived up to its name by being, well, brief. The new client’s briefing sheet is not brief. There are useful notes on what the clients like to eat and drink, how they prefer to be addressed, excursions they might be interested in, as well as some frankly disturbing notes about never making eye contact with the husband, and staying away from the couple’s bedroom at night, even if there’s audible screaming.

“Missing your lover?” Anna puts on an abysmal French accent, rolling her rs extravagantly.

“Yeah. I have a feeling this next charter is going to be much more work,” Zag sighs. “Briefing in an hour?”

“Sure. Any charter’s gonna be more work after the last one, you know. Can’t imagine many charters will lead to you sleeping in the VIP cabin and getting –” Anna grins as Zag shoots her a warning look. “Getting cuddled by the VIP in question. Right?”

“Yeah, I know. Still, brace yourself. Much larger group, and it looks like they’re going to have some pretty high expectations.”

“Consider me braced. Hey, you seen the Captain yet? He’s got the tip sorted from Thanatos’ charter.” Anna pats her back pocket happily. “Generous, your man.”

Zag pushes himself upright. “He’s not my man. I’ll head over to the Captain’s office now.”

“Okay, boss. I’ll go find Daniel,” Anna calls as he walks out of the lounge.

Zag walks quickly along the hallway to Poseidon’s office, almost bumping into the first officer on his way out. They exchange smiles, the first officer holding the door open for Zag to step into the Captain’s office, knocking gently on the open door as he does.

“Captain Poseidon? If you’re free, I heard you sorted the tips out from the last charter. I know Anna already collected hers, would you like me to help at all?”

“Take a seat, Zagreus, I’d been meaning to grab you for a quick chat,” Captain Poseidon booms, gesturing to the chair set opposite his desk. “Alright after the last charter? Not missing the rock star too much?”

“No, sir. It was a fling, nothing more. Back to business as usual,” Zag says, aware that the Captain’s question isn’t entirely asked out of curiosity for his well being.

“Glad to hear it, Zag, glad to hear it. Most of the tips have already been distributed, just a few left to hand out, including yours.” Poseidon riffles through a sheaf of plain white envelopes. “Ah! Here’s yours. Something extra in there for you.” He catches Zag’s concerned eyebrow, laughing jovially. “Thanatos left you something. Asked me to give it to you.”

“Oh, okay. Thank you.” Zag reaches across the desk, taking the proffered envelope gingerly.

“Thank you for your hard work, Zagreus,” Poseidon says distractedly, glancing over Zag’s shoulder through the door. “Ah, Daniel, here for your tip?”

Zag hurries out of the room, asking Daniel to meet him and Anna in the lounge for the briefing He slips into the cabin he shares with Daniel, closing the door quietly and sitting cross legged on his bunk, the envelope held loosely in his hands. He gazes at it for a moment before tearing it open, pulling a smaller sealed envelope and a slip of thin paper from inside.

The slip details his share of the tip left by Than to thank the crew for their service. It’s a generous amount, more than they usually get. He slides the slip back into the envelope, considering whether he can stretch it to a new shirt for Evgenis and Angelina's upcoming pre-wedding dinner and a little vacation to Athens with his mother.

The thought dissipates immediately as he looks at the smaller envelope, his name written across the front in spiky, unfamiliar handwriting. He realises that this is the first time he’s seen Than’s handwriting, most of their communication over the past two weeks having been by text message or face to face. He traces his finger gently over the untidy lettering, lingering over the single x placed just below and to the right of his name.

He takes a deep breath, tearing it carefully open and withdrawing a single folded piece of paper. He lays the envelope beside him, flipping the note open and reading it quickly, his eyebrows raising in shock.

Than hasn’t written much. “Thank you. I’ll miss you so much.” It’s not signed, which doesn’t surprise him. Than might trust that Zag wouldn’t leak the note to the press, but that doesn’t mean he would risk someone else finding it and leaking it. Beneath the words, a ten digit number, prefixed by +1, the country code for the United States of America.

Zag tucks the note back into the envelope, hiding it in his cubby in the locked box next to his passport, his mind reeling. Thanatos has given him his phone number. His personal phone number, presumably. He takes a moment to appreciate the irony before he goes back to being shell shocked, wondering what Than expects him to do with these most precious of digits. Does he expect Zag to call him? Stay in touch, text casually? Or is the note an invitation, an offer to keep their relationship going if Zag wants to?

He wants to, of course. But does he want to see Than in secret, meeting behind closed doors or with the most trusted of people, looking over their shoulders and never doing the things that normal couples do? Knowing that it’s inevitable that one day someone will find out, and that when they do, Than’s career will be over?

Zag’s fingers itch to text Than immediately. He checks the time; just after lunch in Greece, which means it’s early morning in New York, if that’s even where Than is in the world today. He wonders what Than would do, if he woke up to a message from Zag, where things might lead from there.

He allows himself the tiniest fantasy, picturing himself walking into a hotel in New York or maybe even Athens. Charon would let him through into a beautiful bedroom where he would fall immediately into Than’s arms, holding him so close it would be an effort to stretch up to kiss him. He pictures them laughing, unwilling to let go of each other long enough to strip off their clothes, tumbling onto the bed, Than’s body heavy on top of his as they kiss for hours until they’re so lust drunk they part just long enough to pull off their clothes. The whole world would stop when Than pushes inside him, their eyes and bodies connected, exchanging kiss after kiss, together, together, saying with their bodies what they can’t with their lips.

He shakes his head and jumps off his bunk, forcing himself to walk steadily back to the crew mess. He can’t text Than. He can’t be the catalyst for a series of events that would more than likely lead to the end of Than’s career. If one of them is to make that choice, it has to be Than himself.

Daniel and Anna are gathered around the coffee machine in the lounge, watching the precious liquid trickle into Zag's espresso cup, two cappuccinos already made on the counter.

"Hey guys," Zag says, slotting his professional expression into place and taking the folded briefing sheet from his back pocket. "Thanks for the coffee, appreciate it. Let's go through the brief." He smooths the paper out on the plastic counter, leaning over it with Anna and Daniel flanking him.

"Lots to work through," Daniel murmurs.

"Yeah, these guys look high maintenance," Anna nods.

"We'll manage it together," Zag says reassuringly.

The preparation is a nightmare, sending them scurrying around the yacht to check the ingredients in the products in the bathrooms and place the requested brands of water in the correct bedrooms. Zag works with Chef to design a set of menus to meet the complex dietary requirements laid out in the briefing sheet, and visits several wine merchants in his quest to source the clients' preferred drinks.

He's exhausted before the clients even board. He lines up beside Captain Poseidon and the rest of the crew (wearing an appropriately sized shirt, this time), shaking hands and introducing himself with a professional smile, carefully avoiding eye contact with the movie star’s husband. He offers them welcome drinks, expertly blending the cocktails they select and walking them through the safety information, placing the VIP phone on the bar between them and making it clear he’s available whatever the hour. He escorts them to their cabin, a chill dancing down his spine as he explains the features in the bathroom and the bedroom, trying not to remember that just a few days ago he was lucky enough to sleep in the bed next to Than.

A few days later, he’s dead on his feet in the crew mess, mindlessly watching yet another espresso drip into his cup.

“Zag, you alright?” Daniel asks, opening the fridge and fishing out a bottle of orange juice.

“So tired,” Zag mumbles, waiting for the coffee machine to finish and then throwing the espresso back in one mouthful, not caring that it burns his mouth. “They call me at all hours. Last night they called me at three in the morning because they wanted water. There was water in the room, but it wasn’t cold enough. There was also ice in the room, but it wasn’t fresh enough, so I took two glasses with fresh ice and poured a very cold bottle of Perrier for them. Then they called me at six this morning wanting breakfast in bed, which is fine, but they wanted it served as quickly as possible and they wanted a full cooked American breakfast. I had to get Chef out of bed and help make the pancakes.”

Daniel wordlessly hands him a packet of chocolate chip cookies.

“I’m not sure cookies are enough to save me, Daniel,” Zag groans. “God, I miss Than.”

“Because he was an easy client?” Daniel asks, eyebrows raised.

“Because I need a hug,” Zag pouts, bending to rest his forehead on the countertop, wrapping his arms around his head.

Daniel nudges him gently. “It’ll be okay. Wedding's coming up soon, right? Not long til you get a break."

“Yeah, I can’t wait," Zag sighs. "And the Captain said we might end up with a few days between the next charter and the one after that, so we might get a little time off soon.”

“Fingers crossed,” Daniel murmurs. “You okay?”

“I guess,” Zag sighs, straightening and smiling weakly at Daniel. “I’m meant to be taking them shopping on Mykonos this afternoon. Hopefully it’ll be okay. And they’re eating on the island tonight, so we get a few hours of peace to catch up, at least.”

“I’ll get a bottle of wine ready,” Daniel grins, slapping Zag on the shoulder just as his phone beeps noisily with a text from the VIP phone.

“Thanks, Daniel. You’re the best,” Zag calls as he dashes away.

Hours later, Zag sends another car laden with shopping bags back to the marina. The movie star and her husband buy everything from designer clothes to touristy souvenirs to jewellery, even purchasing an original oil painting from a gallery showcasing local artists which needs specialist shipping to find its way safely back to Los Angeles.

By the time he makes it back to the yacht, Zag is dead on his feet, declining a glass of wine in favour of a nap in his bunk. He’s tired enough that he briefly considers texting Than, craving the warmth of his arms and his company. Eleven at night in Greece, four in the afternoon in New York, assuming Than is in New York. Zag slides his personal phone out of his cubby, checking the alerts he set up on Than’s name. There’s nothing recent, just a blurry photo of him walking into a hotel called the Mercer from five days ago.

Zag tucks his phone away and curls up in his bunk, falling immediately asleep.

The rest of the charter passes in a blur of late night calls and last minute itinerary changes. The movie star and her husband host a hedonistic party one night, chartering local tenders to bring visiting friends and influencers to the Agape Mou. Zag, Anna and Daniel stay up all night, serving drinks and canapes and administering first aid to a guest so high he walks into a closed glass door. After turning down an invitation to join the VIPs for a threesome, Zag is told to stand guard outside the door to their cabin, ensuring only “the most attractive people” are allowed inside.

By the time the crew lines up to bid their guests goodbye, Zag fervently hopes that the tiny break Captain Poseidon mentioned comes to pass. A couple of days bonus rest feels like a necessary balm for his weary heart and aching body.

The next charter goes without a hitch, and Captain Poseidon informs them that they will indeed be blessed with three days off before the preparation for the next charter begins. Zag hops on a ferry to Paros, his shoulders relaxing as soon as the island appears on the horizon.

He takes a taxi from the harbour, sparing a wistful glance for the marina and the car rental kiosk. The car drives at breakneck speeds through the island’s tiny, dusty roads, Zag’s thigh tingling with the memory of Than’s hand from the last time he drove up to his mother’s house. When they arrive, he jumps out, equal parts happy to be home and nostalgic for what happened last time he was here.

The cottage door swings open, sunlight flashing on blonde hair as his mother steps into the light. “Zagreus!”

He pays the taxi driver and drags his case over the bumpy ground, letting go of the handle to throw his arms around his mother’s small frame, hugging her close. “Missed you, Mama.”

“Missed you too, darling boy. Thank heavens for the extra viait. You ate?” She glances over her shoulder as he follows her into the cottage, always concerned about the fullness of his belly.

“I had a sandwich on the ferry, I’m good. Wouldn’t say no to some coffee though.”

She moves over to the stove, turning the heat on and spooning coffee into the briki. “Metrios?” Zag nods, watching her add a spoonful of sugar before measuring out the right amount of water with a coffee cup. She sets the coffee pot on the stove, turning back as it starts to warm. “You look tired, agori mou. I thought the new job was going well?”

“It turns out it depends a lot on the client. We had some nightmare ones this last charter. Had me running around all hours, I don’t think I got more than four or five hours of sleep a night.” He takes a seat at the kitchen table, fingers automatically feeling for the Z carved underneath. He watches the coffee pot like a hawk, mouth watering in anticipation of the strong brew that awaits him.

“And the other one? The one you brought here for a quiet lunch?”

“Oh, they were pretty easy. Needed help with ideas for itineraries, otherwise low maintenance.” Zag meets his mother’s eyes briefly, looking away quickly.

“I didn’t understand why you brought one of them here?” she asks carefully, turning to watch the coffee pot.

“I think I told you the VIP was very famous. I thought he deserved to relax somewhere completely private.” Zag swallows, remembering Than’s sleeping face nestled in his lap, the smoothness of his skin under his fingers, the softness of his hair.

She makes a noncommittal noise, focusing completely on the coffee pot, waiting for the contents to foam correctly. When the rich, dark liquid is ready, she pours it into Zag’s cup, placing it on the table in front of him and sitting down opposite him. “What’s wrong?”

“Nothing, Mama, I’m fine,” he replies, lifting the scalding hot coffee to his lips and taking a sip, wincing as the liquid burns his tongue.

Her eyes narrow. “Zagreus. I’m your mother. I know when something is bothering you.”

He sighs, knowing he can't hide from his mother for long. "How do you know if you're in love?" His voice cracks at the end of the sentence.

"Oh, Zag," she murmurs. "What happened?"

"The VIP client I brought here. We… we became close. He was working through some stuff, I think I helped him a little, and then… we ended up kissing." Sadness builds thick and heavy in his chest as he speaks, a single tear trickling down his face. "Spent a lot of time together after that. I miss him, Mama. I miss him so much." Zag buries his face in his hands, a tiny sob escaping as he tries to stay calm.

Persephone stands, walking around the table and stroking his hair, shushing him just as she had when he fell off his bike as a child. He wraps his arms around her waist, pressing his face into her stomach, letting the tears flow, the raw wound in his heart pulsing with pain. She holds him, runs her fingers through his hair, comforting without words as only she can.

When his tears slow, she releases him, sitting back down at the table and taking his hand. "You miss him this much?"

"I do," Zag snuffles. "We only had twelve days, but it feels like the connection between us goes so deep, you know?"

"Sometimes you just know," Persphone replies sadly. "Why don’t you tell me about him?

"He's gorgeous, obviously. But he's so much more. He's kind, he can be silly and playful. He can cook, which was a surprise. He made me this spaghetti… and he loves spanakopita! Said yours was the best, which I totally agree with. He's so curious, you know? Thoughtful. Asked me lots of questions about myself and my childhood here." Zag smiles weakly, bittersweet memories assaulting him. "He's a good man. Doesn't take what he has for granted. Never once made me feel like I was less than him."

"I would hope not," Perspehone mutters. "He sounds lovely, Zagreus. Will you see him again?"

"No," Zag replies, his voice small and hopeless. "He has a career. He's still in the closet, he'd never even told anyone he's bi. There are too many reasons why we can't see each other again."

"You feel they are impossible to work through, these reasons?"

"For him, yeah. Maybe also a little for me. I love my job, I love my life, I'm not sure how being in a relationship with an American megastar would change things. I could try, I guess. But for him… it's too much." He takes a deep, shuddering breath.

"Love requires sacrifice, Zag. The best relationships are the ones where you make it work, if you can. I hope you see him again someday."

"Thanks, Mama–"

"And if you do, bring him here again. I'd like to meet this man who has captured your heart."

Zag smiles wryly. "Of course. But don't get your hopes up, alright?"

Later on that day, kneeling beside his mother weeding yet another flower bed, trying not to look too closely at the amber coloured flowers swaying in the breeze, he realises he was talking to himself as much as he was talking to her.

Chapter Text

Than doesn't leave his apartment at all over the next couple of weeks. He's not sure if it's the vibe in his new music room, the effects of his vacation, or the bittersweetness of his emotions for Zag, but he can't stop writing. Lyrics and melodies leap and twirl gracefully in his mind, song after song pouring out to be captured in his notebooks.

They start as simple riffs or chords, the seeds of songs waiting to be nurtured into fruit. Slowly, they grow form and structure, sprouting verses, chrouses and harmonies. He makes rough recordings on his laptop, listening back and taking notes on the things he wants to change.

He's always written based on his personal experiences, embellishing or anonymising them as appropriate, but these songs feel different. More intense, more raw. The style is subtly different too, a little less commercial, a little more blues. Than knows he should be thinking about whether the label will like these songs enough to call them an album, but he's swept away by the joy of creation, sweetened with new meaning.

He polishes two songs, calling Hypnos when they’re just about good enough to share. He peels the stained, crumpled t-shirt he’s been wearing for a few days from his body, stepping out of his sweatpants and jumping in the shower, sighing happily as he washes. It feels cathartic, getting these songs on paper. They feel more like him. Or as close as he can get without going too far.

Than wraps a towel around his hips and walks into his bedroom, grabbing ripped black jeans and a black t-shirt from the walk-in closet. When he’s dried his hair and dressed, he sits on the edge of his bed, navigating to Zag's public social media profiles. There's nothing new to feast upon, leaving him scrolling restlessly through old content, the faint taste of yearning heavy on his tongue.

He slides his phone into his pocket and heads to the kitchen, wondering what Dusa has planned for lunch. The past week passed in a daze of half eaten salads, his creative frenzy distracting him from the hollowness in his stomach, but now he’s reached a milestone, he finds himself ravenous.

“Hey Dusa,” he calls, knowing how easily spooked his housekeeper can be.

“Oh, hi Mister Thanatos,” she squeaks, turning away from the oven. “Lunch will be ready soon. Hypnos texted and said he’d eat with you?”

“Yeah, I made some progress on the new album. I want to get his feedback. What’re you making?”

“A little bird told me you fell in love with a Greek pastry thing called spanakopita. I know, I know, too many carbs, but you’ve barely eaten this week. I thought I could tempt you into a nibble.”

Than crosses the room to pull her into a hug. “Thank you. Thank you, Dusa.”

She giggles nervously, pushing him away. “You’re welcome, Mister Thanatos. Green salad on the side, okay?”

“Sure, thanks,” Than grins. The idea of eating spanakopita makes him feel closer to Zag, even though he’s many, many miles away.

A muted chime sounds from Dusa’s apron pocket. She grabs for her phone, almost dropping it on the tiled floor as she does. “Oops, sorry! That’s Mister Hypnos. I’ll go let him in.”

“No worries, I can do it. I’ll take him through to the dining room, alright?”

Dusa nods, flitting over to the oven and opening it, releasing a cloud of steam and the savoury scent of golden pastry and melting cheese.

Than walks quickly to the front door, a smile playing on his lips at the smell of the spanakopita and the memories it conjures back to life. He checks the security camera on the panel by the door before he opens the door, grinning at his brother.

“Hey, Than. You’re in a good mood,” Hypnos says, stepping forward to hug him. “Long time no see. Dusa said you were locked away in your music room, barely came out to eat.”

“Yeah, it's been intense. You hungry?”

“Sure. The apartment's looking great, Than. Interior designer did great."

“Thanks,” Than says, leading Hypnos through to the dining room and taking a seat at the table. “Can’t claim I did much other than point at things I liked, but I’m happy with it. I'll show you the music room after lunch. Converting the master suite was the best idea.”

Dusa walks into the room, carrying a large tray laden with plates and glasses. She hands Than and Hypnos a plate each, squares of flaky spanakopita surrounded by green leaves glistening with a light dressing. She places a large glass of water in front of Than, and a glass of Coke in front of Hypnos.

“Thank you,” Than murmurs, his mouth already watering at the sight of the spanakopita.

“Great to see you again, Dusa, thanks for lunch,” Hypnos nods, seizing his knife and fork eagerly.

“You’re very welcome!” she replies, scurrying out of the dining room quickly.

“I wonder if she’ll ever stop being shy,” Hypnos muses, spearing some salad and lifting it to his lips.

“Probably not,” Than replies, cutting a corner off his spanakopita. It’s delicious - not as good as the one Zag’s mother made, but still delicious. His eyes drift closed as he savours the taste of it on his tongue.

“So, you have new songs?”

“Yeah. I wrote a bunch of new stuff, got a few songs ready for a listen. They’re still rough, but I think they’re good. Bit different from my older stuff, though.”

“A little different or a lot different?” Hypnos asks, eyeing him warily.

“You’ll see,” Than winks, shovelling more food into his mouth.

“I’m happy you’re keeping busy, Than,” Hypnos says between bites. “I was worried you’d pine for him when we left Greece. Haven’t seen you that into someone for a long time.”

“I know. To be honest, Hyp, I really miss him. Part of me wants to get on a plane and go to him. The other part knows that’d just be delaying the inevitable.”

Hypnos kicks him lightly under the table. “I’m sorry.”

“S’okay,” Than replies, even though it really isn’t.

They finish lunch, managing to stack the plates and stand before Dusa hurries back to clear up. Than leads Hypnos to the music room, hooking his laptop up to the amplifier and playing the rough cuts. His brother listens attentively, head nodding to the beat, recorded from Than’s electronic kit.

“A little different, then,” he says, his eyes sparkling with approval. “They’re good. Anything else?”

Than runs him through the other thoughts he has, playing riffs and drum beats and singing melodies and lyrics when he has them. Hypnos offers him thoughts and advice as he listens, one of the few people to ever give Than constructive feedback on his work.

“So, what do you think?” Than asks, putting his drumsticks back in the rack.

“I’d say you’ve got enough to go pitch an album to the label. You want me to set something up?” Hypnos grins.

“Yeah, please. I’ll send you a few notes if you’re okay to get in touch with the usual suspects, find out what timeline we can work to?”

“Sure. Nice work, Than. Great to see you so inspired.”

Than chooses to spend the rest of the afternoon in the gym, catching up on the workouts he missed. He doesn’t regret skipping the workouts at all - he’s a musician first, after all - but he’s well aware that his public expect him to look toned and muscular. He takes another shower once he’s done enough sets to assuage his guilt, pulling on a clean pair of pyjama pants and a tank top when he’s dry.

He wanders into the living room, throwing himself onto one of the couches and turning on the TV. Love Island is on one of the many streaming services available to him, and it’s the work of a minute to find the episode he and Zag watched in the cabin that last night. He selects the next one, grabbing a plump cushion to cuddle, wishing Zag was stretched out on the sofa by his side.

The bed feels particularly cold and lonely when he eventually staggers to his bedroom, having fallen asleep sometime during his fifth episode of Love Island.

The next morning, his alarm clock wakes him at an ungodly hour. Running on a treadmill is fine, but Than far prefers running on the road, particularly when Central Park is very nearly on his doorstep. He throws on some generic, nondescript running gear and scrapes his hair back, tucking it into a baseball cap, hoping the early hour and his sunglasses will give him enough anonymity for a long dawn run.

He sets off, popping a single earphone into his ear and finding something to listen to on his phone. The city streets are just starting to wake up, the sky caught between darkness and a deep, bruised blue purple. His thoughts blur away as he finds his pace, feet pounding the pavement in a steady rhythm.

The miles between his penthouse in SoHo and Central Park disappear in a flash, the landscape around him shifting from towering buildings and skyscrapers to trees and monuments.

On a whim he decides to run around Bethesda Fountain, enjoying the tranquillity of the nearly deserted park, lit by the rising sun. He passes the Wollman Rink, still being used for community events until the start of winter in a few months time. He wonders whether Zag has ever been ice skating. Maybe not, if he’s never left Greece.

He runs on, approaching the fountain from the west side. The morning sun floods the terrace in washed out light that catches on the angel’s spread wings, highlighting every contour of the sculpture. He passes a couple, both in running gear, stopped at the lip of the fountain, chugging water from matching bottles. As he passes, the man drops to one knee, the woman screaming with delight, her acceptance leaving her lips almost before he’s finished asking the question.

Than’s strides shorten, his feet slowing as he puts space between him and the newly engaged couple. There’s a lump in his throat, bitter and hot.

He realises he’s jealous. Envious of someone else’s happy ever after. Will he ever propose to someone he loves, see joy flicker across their face as they realise what he’s about to ask? Or will someone propose to him, capable of imagining spending the rest of their life by his side? Will he ever know someone so deeply, connect with someone so truly, that a lifelong commitment feels right?

He stops, breathing heavily, dropping to sit on the edge of the fountain and taking a deep drink from his water bottle. A wave of sadness breaks over him, so strong it almost brings tears to his eyes. He turns towards the angel, gazing at the glinting coins through the still, cool water. He wonders how many of the wishes made here came true. If he had a coin, he would flip it into that water and wish for a way to be with Zag.

He wants to know and be known, to understand and be understood. He craves that depth of connection, the kind he walked away from when he boarded the jet that took him away from Greece.

He sighs, scrubbing at his damp eyes with the heels of his hands and shoving the longing deep down inside. He picks up his bottle from the ground, taking another drink before he stands, setting off in a daze.

Than makes himself some scrambled eggs after his shower, standing at the counter to shovel them hungrily into his mouth, appetite stoked by his run. When the plate is clean he tidies everything away into the dishwasher, enjoying the quiet domesticity that comes from Dusa’s day off. Some of his friends insist on having help every day, never lifting a finger for themselves. Than considers it a point of pride that he knows how to use all the appliances in his apartment, and that he regularly puts his knowledge to use.

The rest of the day is spent in the music room, polishing the new songs until they need a full band behind him to go further. He flips back through some old scraps of music that have been hanging around for years, looking for seeds he can use, directly or just as inspiration. He writes a few notes for Hypnos and outlines where he sees the album ending up, ready to pitch it to the label whenever Hyp gets them a meeting.

Than’s phone rings just as he’s closing the door behind him, on his way to the kitchen to cook some chicken for dinner. “Hey, Hyp. How’re you?”

“Good, Than, how’s your day?”

“Alright. Dusa’s off today, so I’m about to go make some dinner.”

“About that. The guys at the label are keen to talk, you okay with a last minute dinner tonight?”

Than sighs. He had been looking forward to some alone time, but really, all he can think to do is write or watch Love Island and pine for Zag. And it's been weeks since he was seen in public. Going out is a good choice on all counts. “Yeah, sure. I assume we’re going somewhere noticeable to start stirring up the press about a new album in the works?”

Hypnos laughs. “Yeah, you got it. I’ll text you and Charon the details and send a car. You probably have a couple hours to get ready, wear something sexy, alright?”

Than glances down at his t-shirt and sweatpants, changing direction towards his bedroom. “Sure, sure. See you later.”

Dinner goes well. The team responsible for Than’s relationship with the label seem excited about the prospect of a new album, just as he expected. They pass a set of headphones around the table, listening to a few of the rough demos Than has recorded, seemingly interested in the new sound, which was definitely not expected. The label's attitude is usually if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it, where his own is definitely in favour of evolution over time.

A more formal meeting is set up for the following day. Than emails over notes and the rough recordings stored on his phone, and the team promise to send an initial budget proposal first thing in the morning. Than goes to bed happy, slipping between the sheets with a contented sigh, wishing he could share his excitement about the new album with Zag. The fact that it’s the last album in his current record deal makes the future feel more open, full of possibilities Than hasn’t had time to truly consider.

The next morning, Hypnos meets him for breakfast, his laptop open on the table as they work their way through eggs and fruit. When the email arrives, they discuss their response, making a list of preferred producers, studios and promotion options. Hypnos replies with their counterproposal, which he fully expects to be accepted, riding the success of Than’s last tour.

The next email summons them to the label's flashy offices, with instructions to come in through the front doors.

Three hours later, they walk out of the building with an approved plan. Than keeps his face carefully neutral as flashguns pop in his face, a gaggle of reporters held back by the building’s security. He slides into the back of a car, Charon slamming the door shut behind him before he gets into the passenger seat, Hypnos running around the car to get in the other side.

“Happy?” Hypnos asks, his voice bubbling with pride and the need for validation.

“Yeah, thanks bro, perfectly negotiated,” Than leans across to punch his brother lightly on the arm. “Can’t wait to get the band together next week to start rehearsing.”

“Yeah, it’s gonna be great. I’m gonna ask Meg to bump your appearance on that late night talk show, okay? Give you a few more weeks, hopefully you can tease the album a little when you’re on air.”

“Sounds good,” Than replies, glancing out of the window as the car moves slowly through the midtown traffic. “Hey, I kinda feel like looking at some guitars. Can we stop at Jim’s?”

“Sure, lemme call and see if we can drop by,” Hypnos says, immediately drawing his phone from his pocket.

Than smiles at his brother, his right hand man, always by his side. “You wanna celebrate tonight? You, me, Charon, get some dinner at my place and play some video games, like the old days?”

“You say like the old days as if we hung out together because we wanted to, not because we were too broke to do anything else,” Hypnos grins, lifting the phone to his ear. “I’m down. Charon?”

Their elder brother gives them a silent thumbs up from the front passenger seat.

The owner of New York’s most exclusive guitar shop is more than happy to close down for a few hours to let Thanatos browse their wares, and Than is more than happy to traipse up four flights of stairs to get to their showroom. Hundreds of beautiful guitars are displayed on the wall, a mixture of acoustic and electric, everything from Fender to Ibanez to Gibson to tiny artisan brands, brand new and vintage.

Hypnos and Charon take a seat, accepting cups of coffee from one of the shop assistants while the owner greets Than from across the room.

“Good to see you, Thanatos. How’s that 1951 Broadcaster treating you?” Jim asks, placing a Gibson Firebird carefully onto a stand before joining Than in the middle of the cramped space.

“Good, Jim. Still stoked you called me when you found it,” Than replies, grinning at the man who has sourced more than half of his guitar collection.

“You’re top of my list,” Jim winks. “Looking for anything specific today?”

“Nah, just browsing. Been a while.” Than wanders off into the artisan section, less interested in the big brands for the moment.

“Yeah, you were last here, what, a year ago? Before the big tour.” Jim follows, keeping a respectful distance.

He points out a few interesting instruments, helping Than take them from the wall to give them a test run. They all sound nice enough, not quite different or novel enough to truly pique his interest. He hands the last guitar back to Jim, shrugging his shoulders.

Jim directs him into a corner, sensing he’s about to lose a sale. “Found a new shop a couple months ago, you might like their stuff. Build quality is insane, and the sound is super warm, little bit fuzzy. Maybe too blues for your sound.”

“I’m interested, always open to something new,” Than replies, reaching for an archtop guitar finished in sparkling lacquer.

“Nice, they call that one the Cosmos. Beautiful, right? Want to try it? The shop calls themselves Styx Strings, cute little pun.”

Than takes the proffered strap from Jim’s hands, clipping it onto the body and slinging it over his head. He glances down at the guitar, admiring the glittering paintwork, rich deep teals and violets that blend together to look like a moody night sky. There are even a few constellations picked out in silver paint. It reminds him of gazing up at the stars in Greece, alone at first, and later with Zag in his arms.

He swallows, playing a few leisurely chords and progressions, admiring the tone. It is a little more bluesy than his usual sound. The sound suits his state of mind, his state of heart.

“I like it, Jim. Sounds good.” He plays a little longer, feeling out the instrument, enjoying the sound and the feel of it in his arms.

“That one’s just a demo model, obviously. They custom make every guitar. Lead time could be pretty quick, though, couple of weeks if you’re interested.”

Than looks up, his fingers stilling on the strings. “Alright. Let’s put an order in.”

“That was fast, my friend, even for you,” Jim says, taking the guitar from Than’s outstretched hands and placing it into a stand, turning off the amp. “Come over, let’s fill out this online order form doodad.”

“Hey, can they customise the constellations painted on the body?” Than asks, following Jim across the showroom to the tiny desk set up in the corner.

Jim puts his glasses on and squints at his computer. “For you, they can do anything.”

Chapter Text

A few easy charters later, Zag leaves the yacht behind for Evgenis and Angelina's big day. It's come up fast, their wedding day, the logistics of finishing the last charter leaving him barely enough time to hurry home to get ready for their pre-wedding dinner.

He straightens the collar of his wine red shirt, rolling the sleeves up his forearms and minutely adjusting the hem. He looks good, he thinks, the new shirt complementing his golden skin nicely, the grey trousers fitted but not too tight. His mind flits back to the last time he wore these trousers. The speed with which they ended up on the VIP cabin floor, the hunger in Than’s amber eyes as he teased him with the strawberry.

Zag checks the time on his phone, finding that he has ten minutes until the taxi arrives to whisk him to dinner. He checks his email, scrolls through his social feeds for a few minutes, and checks the alert he set up on Than’s name. His heart thrills as he sees a flurry of news stories, all centred around two new photos. He taps through to each story one by one, reading the speculation with a cloying fascination.

Most of the gossip and news sites seem to agree that Than is working on a new album. The photos are from two meetings: one at an upscale restaurant, and one at his record company’s headquarters. The restaurant photos are hot: he’s wearing snug ripped jeans, a tight white t-shirt and a close fitting black leather jacket with silver studs running from elbow to wrist. His fingers are adorned with heavy silver rings, he’s wearing sunglasses at night, and his hair is tucked into a knitted beanie. Zag takes in every detail, eyefucking his former lover shamelessly.

He looks gorgeous. Zag wishes he could read into his expression to tell how he’s feeling, but he’s aware of how deliberate Than’s public persona is. That sexy, self satisfied smile could be hiding anything. He blows Than a kiss, locking his phone and sliding it back into his pocket.

When he walks into the taverna, he’s immediately intercepted by Angelina, who’s drifting around in a state of happy calm that contrasts with her mother’s vibrating euphoria.

“Zag! So good to see you.” She hugs him close, the scent of her perfume familiar in his nostrils, leaning in to whisper in his ear. “We just have to get through the next couple of hours and we’ll go do karaoke and drink afterwards, celebrate properly, okay?”

He laughs, hugging her back. “Whatever you want, beautiful bride.”

Angelina is immediately dragged away by a distant cousin. Zag watches her go, an indulgent smile on his lips, sauntering over to join Evgenis and Miltos, who are wisely hiding in a corner. He grabs a glass and pours himself some red wine, nodding approvingly at the taverna’s choice. “Who’re you hiding from?”

They slap his back in welcome and retreat deeper into the corner, Evgenis leaning against the whitewashed wall. “Everyone. My papa keeps trying to introduce me to distant relatives I’ve never met, and my mama keeps pinching my cheeks and crying.”

Miltos laughs, taking a sip from his own glass. “Couple of hours, then we’ll go party together, Evgenis. Stay strong.”

They chat about the upcoming wedding, double checking their plans. Evgenis looks happy for all that he’s annoyed by his family, watching Angelina dance around the room and toying with the engagement ring his fiancee insisted on buying him. Miltos catches Zag’s eye and grins, both of them filled with happiness for their friends.

Eventually the group settles down, taking their seats at long, scrubbed wooden tables. Bottles of wine and baskets of bread are passed around as the waiters bring out platter after platter of traditional Greek food. Zag digs in, piling lamb kleftiko and spit roasted chicken on his plate, adding a square of tiropita and some salad before passing the dishes on. Conversation sparkles and whirls around him, lubricated by good food and good wine. He lets the chatter wash over him, content to sit quietly across the table from Evgenis and Angelina, who slide food onto each other's plates as the platters pass by.

He wants that familiarity. He wants someone to know he likes the fattest dolmades, the ones which split as soon as you tap them with a fork. He wants to hoard the spanakopita, giving someone the crispiest corner pieces with the perfect balance of pastry and filling. He tries to put on a brave face, not wanting to be anything other than exuberant on such a special occasion.

Miltos leans in from beside him. “Zag, you alright? You seem a bit down.”

“Yeah, sorry,” Zag sighs. “I, um… I met someone. But it didn’t go anywhere, even though I wanted it to.”

“I’m sorry,” Milo murmurs, patting his shoulder reassuringly. “Want to talk about it?”

“I do, actually,” Zag replies, surprised at how strongly the compulsion tugs in his chest. “He… um… he was a guest. So there are some things I can’t talk about, you know?”

“That’s okay,” Miltos says, refilling their wine glasses. “Tell me whatever you feel comfortable telling me. You know you can trust me.”

“I know. So, he was one of the guests on a charter recently. I thought he was kind of standoffish at first, but it turned out he was just… I dunno, a bit uncomfortable with who he is. Hadn’t ever kissed a man before, but always felt the attraction. So things were weird for a while, because there was definitely chemistry, but obviously I wasn’t going to act on it because of the job.” Zag sighs, dragging his hair tie out of his hair and re-tying his ponytail. “We kissed, we spent a lot of time together, and then he left. I miss him so much. For the first time in ages, I could almost imagine being in a relationship, you know?”

“Sounds like it was doomed from the start,” Miltos observes, taking a sip of wine.

“Yeah. You know when you just can’t stop yourself, even though you know it’s gonna hurt?” Miltos nods, smiling sadly as Zag rolls his eyes. “I couldn’t stop myself. Neither could he.”

“There’s absolutely no way you can see him again?”

“Nah. He was a guest, his life is… completely different. Even if he didn’t live several thousand miles away, his social circle and mine would never touch in normal circumstances. Even if we could be together, I don’t know how we’d bridge that gap.”

As Zag speaks he realises that this is an angle he’s never consciously thought about. There are layers to the reasons why he and Than can’t be together, reasons that go beyond the situation. He imagines what it would be like if Than were sat here beside him, his plus one for the wedding. Would he be comfortable partying with Zag and his friends? Would Zag’s friends be comfortable partying with him, or would they be intimidated? Would his presence detract from the bride and the groom? Would the press try to gatecrash the wedding?

“Sounds like you’re resigned to it being over.” Miltos pats his shoulder again.

“Yeah. I wish things were different… but yeah. It is what it is.”

“I’m sorry, Zag. Who knows, maybe you’ll meet someone at the wedding. Someone a bit more available.”

“Yeah, maybe.” Zag stuffs some lamb into his mouth, grateful for a sudden interruption from Angelina’s sister, tapping her wine glass before she makes her speech.

Eventually the dinner winds down, family members drifting away until it’s just the four of them left. They walk towards Angelina’s favourite karaoke bar, ordering and downing shots of tequila as soon as they walk in the door.

"Okay," Angelina yells as they cram into the tiny booth. "I'm the bride, so I choose the music. And I'm allowing only songs from the nineties tonight."

Miltos groans. "Really? You know it's virtually illegal to like the music from the decade you were born in, right?"

"Nope, nope, nope, Miltos!" Angelina trills, blocking the touchscreen and adding songs to the playlist.

The opening notes of Truly Madly Deeply by Savage Garden start to play. Evgenis grabs the hot pink microphone, throwing the silver one to his wife-to-be, immediately launching into a duet.

Zag and Miltos roll their eyes at each other and duck out of the room to acquire more alcohol.

Many drinks later, the four of them are dancing in the tiny space, microphones discarded as they sing at the top of their lungs. Angelina has made Zag, Miltos and Evgenis perform I Want It That Way together, giggling as they try to synchronise their dance moves, and they've jumped and headbanged their way through Smells Like Teen Spirit. At some point, Kiss Me starts playing, and Zag excuses himself to the bathroom, remembering how Than sang it to him before they went out to the hot tub.

He comes back with another tray of tequila shots and a round of mojitos, grateful for the fuzzy drunken haze that blankets his brain and dulls his yearning for Than. At some point he decides it's a good idea to post videos of them singing on his profile, starting with Beck's Loser, moving on to I Believe In A Thing Called Love by the Darkness, and then Sisqo's Thong Song.

Aerosmith's I Don't Want To Miss A Thing starts to play, and a lump grows in Zag's throat as he sings with Angelina and Miltos.

I could stay awake just to hear you breathing
Watch you smile while you are sleeping
While you're far away and dreaming
I could spend my life in this sweet surrender
I could stay lost in this moment forever
Every moment spent with you is a moment I treasure

He remembers watching Than sleep that last morning, his face peaceful and heartbreakingly beautiful. He swallows, singing his heart out and gazing into the front facing camera of his phone, one arm wound around Angelina's shoulders.

When the last chorus comes around, he sways them both from side to side, throwing himself into the song as if there's the tiniest possibility that Than might be watching.

I don't want to close my eyes
I don't want to fall asleep
'Cause I'd miss you James
And I don't want to miss a thing

Angelina wriggles out of his grasp. "Who's James?" she demands.

Zag blows a kiss at the camera and stops recording, posting the video immediately.

"Just a guy I met. We had a fling. I wish I could see him," Zag slurs, finishing his mojito with a loud slurp.

"Invite him to the wedding! You didn’t use your plus one, and we can fit one more person in no problem. I wanna meet him," Angelina babbles enthusiastically.

"He can't come. And the wedding is the day after tomorrow. Oh," Zag checks the time on his phone. "No, it's tomorrow actshually. Actually. We should go get some rest so we all look beautiful in the photos. Not you, Angelina, you'll look beautiful no matter what. But we need all the help we can get." Zag hiccups.

"Stop deflecting! I wanna know about James," Angelina whines, bumping his shoulder.

"Nothing to tell. Boy meets boy, boy falls for boy, boy says there's no way they can be together, boy loses boy. Boy learns to live without boy," Zag giggles sadly.

"Which boy are you?" Evgenis asks, lurching over to give Angelina a messy smooch.

"Does it matter?" Zag sighs melodramatically. "C'mon, we better finish. Time's nearly up. Who's choosing the last song?"

"Me!" Angelina yelps, pointing at herself vaguely. "Spice Girls time!"

Zag, Evgenis and Miltos groan, but they sing along anyway.

The next morning Zag wakes up with an incredible hangover. He can't bear to eat breakfast, turning down his favourite poached eggs and toast in favour of downing buckets of coffee before he checks into the hotel with Miltos and Evgenis. Their suits hang in garment bags in the wardrobe, shoes lined up neatly by the door, toiletries and other essential supplies stacked on the bathroom counter. They run around for hours, double checking every detail for the big day until it's time for a quiet dinner and an early night.

On the morning of the wedding Zag wakes up early, scrolling through his alerts while the others snatch a little more sleep. There's a new photo of Than, head in his hands in Central Park, accompanied by a headline speculating about whether he misses Sophia. Zag zooms in on the photo, reading the sadness on his handsome face and wishing he could hold him, turn his melancholy into joy. He doesn't dare hope that this rare moment of vulnerability might be because Than misses him.

Miltos and Evgenis wake up and the day begins in earnest. Zag doesn't have a moment to waste, sending Miltos to deliver Angelina's wedding shoes in a tradition so old it's lost all meaning. He heads over to the happy couple's apartment, joining a gaggle of friends and family to make their marital bed to bring them good luck.

He hurries back to the hotel, keeping a close eye on the time. Sitting Evgenis on a chair, he carefully drags a razor over his face, shaving his morning stubble slowly away until his skin is smooth and thankfully free of nicks. Miltos returns and they help him dress, placing the bouquet he'll give to his bride in his trembling hands.

Zag tries to stop the emotion overwhelming him as he stands behind Evgenis outside the church, waiting for Angelina to arrive. A solitary tear trickles down his face anyway, his heart full of love for his friends.

Watching them wed drags a few more from his smiling eyes. His childhood friends, bound together in their love for all eternity. He smiles happily, watching them walk out of the church, hands clasped and decorated with shining golden rings. For a moment he finds himself wondering if Than believes in marriage, dismissing the thought almost angrily. This has to stop. You have to get over him, he tells himself.

The wedding reception is a casual, boisterous affair, dishes of food placed on the tables for the guests to share alongside free flowing sparkling wine. Zag barely sees Evgenis and Angelina, absorbed as they are in receiving good wishes and gifts from their guests. Once everyone is fed and well on their way to tipsiness, the dancing begins. Zag steals a slightly awkward dance with the bride, telling Angelina how glowingly happy she looks as he spins her around and around to the best of his ability.

The dancing speeds up, and Zag takes the opportunity to duck away from the dance floor. A beautiful woman in a silky cobalt blue dress follows him, standing beside him as he watches Evgenis dance with his mother-in-law.

"You're Zagreus, right?" she asks. "I'm Dani. Evgenis is my distant cousin."

"Good to meet you, Dani," Zag nods. "I grew up with Evgenis, Angelina and Miltos, the other best man."

Dani coaxes him to the bar, buying him a mojito before he can insist otherwise. They take their drinks back to a table on the edge of the dancefloor, chatting easily.

A few drinks later, Zag belatedly realises that Dani is flirting with him. Their ribboned chairs have edged closer together, and Dani takes any excuse to touch him, pushing his shoulder gently when he makes a joke and nudging his shoulder with her own when she makes a point. He excuses himself to the bathroom, considering what to do. She’s attractive, with long dark hair and a curvy body, and she’s fun to be with, adept at making conversation and incisively funny too. In theory, if he wasn’t pining after a completely unattainable man, he would be enjoying the flirtation, looking forward to getting her number at the end of the night, maybe a kiss if he’s lucky.

He pushes Than forcibly out of his mind as he dries his hands, determined to move on. He walks back to the table, noticing that Dani has chosen to wait for him, sipping her drink slowly as she watches the dance floor. He slides back into his seat, reaching out to brush a wayward strand of immaculately curled hair behind her ear.

“So, Zagreus, are you going to ask me to dance?” Dani asks, her lips shining with freshly applied cherry red gloss.

“Well, Dani, let me tell you a secret,” Zag leans in, whispering in her ear. “I’m trying to impress you, and I’m pretty sure you wouldn’t like me any more if you found out how bad I am at dancing.”

She tips her head back and laughs, a luminous smile on her face. “C’mon Zagreus, I’m sure you can shuffle for a slow dance, right? We’re at that bit of the evening after the traditional dances and before the music really gets started, why not make the most of it?”

“If you insist. Just promise me you won’t drop me if I step on your toes,” Zag grins, standing up and extending his hand towards her.

She takes it, her fingers warm in his as they walk onto the dance floor. Miltos winks at him as Dani steps into his arms, placing her free hand on his shoulder. He lets his free hand drift to her waist, gripping enough that she feels desired but not so tightly she feels controlled. They move slowly in a gentle circle, not really dancing as much as swaying together vaguely in time with the music.

“I still like you, Zagreus,” Dani says with a sultry smile.

“I’m very glad to hear that,” Zag replies, letting his lips curve upwards. She feels nice enough, her body pressed gently against his, the floral scent of her perfume rising from her golden skin. Not as good as Than, his brain helpfully reminds him, and it takes all his concentration to not grimace at the thought.

They sway for a few more minutes, drifting slowly closer together until she lets go of his hand, sliding her palm up his arm to rest at the nape of his neck. He reciprocates, letting his arm wrap around her back, pulling her closer as she gazes up at him, her chocolate brown eyes expectant.

The moment their lips touch he knows he’s made a mistake. He tries to relax into it, letting his lips move gently against hers, the taste of her lip gloss sweet on his tongue as the kiss deepens. She presses closer, her breasts soft and full against his chest, but all Zag can think of is how different it felt to kiss Than, how each movement of their mouths together sent a thrill through his body. Dani is beautiful, witty and intelligent, but her kiss doesn’t light him on fire like Than’s.

He breaks the kiss, disappointment and guilt simmering in his belly. Dani smiles at him, her palm curving around the back of his neck to pull him in again.

He steps back, releasing her, his lips sticky with gloss. He resists wiping his mouth, hand twitching by his side. “Dani, I’m sorry. You’re gorgeous, but I… I’m not over my ex. I thought maybe I was, but I’m not.” She frowns, a stormcloud passing over her features. “It’s not you. Honestly, it’s me.” Zag winces at the terrible cliches pouring from his mouth.

“Fine. I wasn’t that into you anyway,” she mutters, turning on her heel and walking away into the crowd, leaving Zag hovering awkwardly on the edge of the dance floor, completely alone.

He turns around, slinking to the bar and ordering another mojito, hoping the lights are low enough that no-one can see the mixture of embarrassment and regret burning on his cheeks.

Chapter Text

Than wakes up in the middle of his bed, nestled in the soft sheets with a pillow crushed against his chest. He groans, automatically shuffling towards the edge of the bed with the intention to get up before he remembers. Today won’t be spent at the rehearsal space fleshing out the album with his band. Tonight he’s appearing on the David Falcon show, teasing the new album and keeping his name in the press.

Because it’s David Falcon, the longest running, highest profile late night talk show host in the history of time itself, the appearance isn’t just an interview. He prides himself on engaging with his high profile celebrity guests in a more original way, and tonight Than will be teaching him how to play the guitar. It’s a setup, of course - David already plays the guitar well enough to strum out a few chords, and Than will “teach” him enough that they can sing a medley of songs together. The label expects it’ll be an endearing segment, one which they hope will add a bit of levity and warmth to Than’s bad boy image.

New albums always do best when they come with a little reinvention, after all. They’ve already agreed that this album will take Than’s image in a slightly more heartfelt, more emotional direction to match the feel of the songs he’s writing nowadays. The label hopes to create a story that Than is maturing, growing into being more comfortable with himself as an artist as he approaches his thirtieth birthday.

It’s ironic. The label has no idea how much he’s growing into himself personally, how much the story matches the reality beneath the facade.

He rolls over, determined to enjoy a rare moment of relaxation before he gets up. The show will be recorded tonight for broadcast tomorrow, giving him a whole day of preparation for the performance ahead. He unplugs his phone, unlocking it and immediately checking on Zag, delighted to find several new videos. He taps the first one, smiling as the screen is filled with a happily drunk Zag in a fitted wine red shirt, singing in a karaoke booth with three friends, who Than recognises as Angelina, Evgenis and Milos.

They sing Loser first, a song Than likes well enough but doesn’t love. Evgenis has a surprisingly good voice, and Zag can just about hold a tune. He grins when they move on to I Believe In A Thing Called Love, none of them hitting the high notes at all but clearly having a great time singing it, faces screwed up in concentration as they squeal their way through the chorus. He bursts into giggles when the next video is a snippet from Thong Song, finally believing Zag’s insistence that he can’t dance, even if he does look incredibly endearing gyrating his hips, a blissful expression on his handsome face as he sips a mojito.

The last video features I Don’t Want To Miss A Thing, Zag and Angelina singing together with a hot pink microphone held between them, Angelina’s eyes closed and Zag’s flickering between the lyrics and the camera on his phone. Than smiles, watching him enjoy some downtime with his friends. He puts everything he has into singing the song, taking a huge breath just before the last chorus and belting it out for all he’s worth.

His mouth drops open as he listens to Zag sing, his finger immediately flicking the video back a few seconds, half afraid he’s misheard. His cheeks flush as he listens again, absolutely certain that Zag has changed the words. Tears prickle in his eyes as Angelina demands to know who James is and Zag blows an elaborate kiss at the camera right before the video ends.

He watches the video again and again, his heart fluttering with the realisation that Zag is still thinking about him. Eventually he puts his phone back on the nightstand, rolling onto his side and cuddling the pillow tight into his chest.

For a moment, he lets himself daydream about what might have happened if he’d gone to karaoke with Zag and his friends. He hasn’t ever done karaoke before. Most of his celebrity friends aren’t particularly interested in doing karaoke with a professional singer - takes all the fun out of it, apparently - but he imagines he’d enjoy it with Zag. Even if he didn’t sing, he knows he would enjoy watching Zag perform, a side of him Than hasn’t been lucky enough to see yet, exuberant and enjoying himself..

He imagines Zag’s arm wound around his waist, the two of them singing together, maybe even singing for each other. Would he need to carry drunk Zag home, or would he be able to walk confidently on his own, or would he need Than’s arm around his shoulders for support? When they got home, would he need to tuck Zag up in bed, or would he be full of drunken affection, climbing onto Than’s lap to kiss him, his lips tasting of mint, rum and sugar?

Jealous drunk Zag is familiar to him. Than remembers how quickly Zag went from angry to aroused, how enthusiastically he dropped to his knees, giving him one of the best blowjobs he’s ever had even full of wine and jealousy. He imagines carrying a happy drunk Zag home, maybe even their home, laying him carefully on the bed and laughing as Zag refuses to remove his arms from where they’re locked around Than’s neck. He would bend to kiss him, of course he would, letting Zag roll them over and unbuckle his belt. Zag’s mojito scented breath would ghost over Than’s face in the aftermath of a kiss before Zag makes his way down to undo Than’s fly.

Than wraps his hand around his cock, closing his eyes and imagining the scene, Zag’s dark hair messy in the low light of their bedroom, his eyes alight with desire, maybe more. He would pull Than’s shoes off, throwing them carelessly onto the floor and stripping off his jeans, eager to get his mouth on him. Than strokes himself, rolling onto his back, imagining Zag’s lips pressing sloppy kisses over his length. He would reach up to tangle his fingers with Than’s as he sucks the head into his mouth, his tongue teasing the barbell gently. He would look up, Than knows he would, wanting to see the effects of his attentions on his face.

He strokes himself harder, picturing himself reaching down and pulling Zag away from his dick, kissing him hard as he pushes Zag’s pants down over his hips. He’d settle him on his side, gazing at his body as if he’s a banquet, uncertain where to start.

The image shifts, returning to a memory in the cabin on the yacht, the incredible feeling of sucking Zag’s cock while Zag sucked his, their hips straining as they climbed together. He remembers how each of Zag’s moans felt translated into sensation. He licks his lips, remembering the taste of Zag’s climax on his tongue.

Than gasps, reaching a messy peak all over his hand. As he comes down, his dick softening in his slick hand, he wonders if Zag touches himself thinking about him. If he sings for James when he’s doing karaoke, maybe he does. The thought makes Than shiver, yearning and desire mingling in his blood.

He drags himself out of bed, cleaning himself up and pulling on some workout clothes. A couple of hours in the gym, a shower, and a little quiet time to prepare for the recording tonight. Maybe when he’s home he can think about what to do with the revelation in the video.

Knowing Zag is thinking about him pushes him one step closer to jumping on a plane.

On the way to his home gym, Than suddenly remembers Mort. He knows the plush mouse made it into his case. He watched Zag place him carefully in a gap between some t-shirts, making sure he was well protected for the journey, but he hasn’t seen him since. He changes direction, walking towards the kitchen, calling Dusa’s name to avoid startling her.

“Mister Thanatos?” Dusa walks out of the living room, a fluffy feather duster in her hand. “Did you need something?”

“Ah, hey Dusa,” Than smiles. “I was wondering if you found a toy mouse in my case when I came back from Greece? I know he was in there when I left, but I don’t think I’ve seen him.”

“Oh, I don’t remember seeing one. I can go get your case and check. A toy mouse?”

“Yeah.” Than takes his phone from his pocket, searching for the cover art of his third album. “He looks like this. We made plushies made when this album was released, someone gave me one in Greece. If you find him, let me know, okay? I’d like to see him again.”

Dusa nods. “Sure, I’ll take a look as soon as I’m finished with the dusting.”

“No rush,” Than asks, turning back towards the gym.

Hours later, he sits in a makeup chair, his hair already tousled and sexy as the makeup girl applies one last dusting of powder to his face. Across the dressing room, a midnight blue suede guitar case waits for him, his new favourite guitar safely contained within it. Styx Strings managed to make his new Cosmos in a mere week, likely because of the fame of its soon-to-be owner, and since it arrived it’s become a firm favourite. The sound is warm and soulfully fuzzy, and the outlines of Perseus and Andromeda on the sparkling body lift his heart every time he sees them.

“Alright, Than, this should be just as we rehearsed,” Hypnos mutters, pacing behind the chair. “Just remember, David likes to throw curveballs at his guests, don’t be surprised if he diverts from the plan. Try to bring it back to the new album, the tour, and how grateful you feel to have the space to grow as an artist, whatever happens, okay? If you’re uncomfortable just look at me and I’ll interrupt, try to deflect.”

“Sure,” Than replies as the makeup girl whisks the protective cape away and leaves the room. He stands, looking at himself in the mirror, pleased with what he sees. Dark grey jeans hug his thighs, a few chains dangling across his hip, matching the heavy necklaces nestled against his chest. His deep violet shirt has a slight shimmer to it, buttoned just a few fingers breadths below his pecs, exposing a good amount of chiselled cleavage ready for the camera.

“You look great,” Hypnos says, catching his eye in the mirror. “Choosing the outfit to complement the new guitar was a genius move.”

“Thanks, Hyp.”

“Good luck, bro. You’re gonna be great as always.”

A knock sounds briefly on the dressing room door. A runner ducks in, hands held out reverentially for Than's guitar, signalling that it’s time to go. He follows her, taking his position backstage, ready to walk down the red velvet stairs and through the glittering golden curtain. He can hear David Falcon’s voice, wrapping up the last segment and introducing a commercial break. Less than thirty seconds later he welcomes the viewers back and slides straight into Than’s introduction, which is equal parts compliment and comedy.

Than sets off down the stairs, taking a deep breath before he fixes a cool smile on his face. The audience are deafening, applause providing the backdrop to yells and screams, a cacophony of enthusiasm. He throws the audience a wink and a smile, kicking the noise up another level.

“Thanatos! The man himself, take a seat, take a seat,” David grins, his silver hair glinting under the studio lights as he gestures to the velvet armchair beside him.

“Great to be here, David, thanks for having me,” Than says, letting a little warmth slip through.

They move easily through the first few questions, mandated by the label to make sure there’s ample mention of the sell out tour and his last platinum album. On cue, David mentions the recent press shots of Than out at dinner with his A&R team, and he admits that there’s a new album in the works, duly mentioning how grateful he is for the support of his fans and the label as he continues to grow as an artist.

“Now, ladies and gentlemen, you'll be interested to know that Thanatos here has brought one of his many guitars with him today." Than smiles slightly, pulling the guitar from behind the armchair on cue, settling it into his lap and connecting it to the cable at his feet. "Now, it's not because he might have an impulse to smash up the set up any moment, I’m assured those days are behind you now?” David gives the camera an exaggerated wink, referring to a past PR stunt when Than did, in fact, destroy an entire set, including a well made replica of an electric guitar.

“Well, never say never, right?” Than winks back, pulling a melodramatic gasp from the host.

“On the subject of never say never, a little bird tells me your new album is gonna be a departure from your usual style. A case of an old dog learning some new tricks, yeah?”

“I’d say more like a young dog inspired by some old tricks,” Than grins. “I’ve been listening to the godfathers of rock and roll a lot recently, you know? Wanna bring some of the soul back. A bit of the blues, maybe.” He strums a few chords, slapping the strings to cut the sound off.

The audience stamp their feet, a few whistles embedded in their cheers. Than inclines his head in acknowledgment.

“Alright, pup,” David says, pulling his own guitar from behind his walnut desk to whoops from the audience. “Let’s see if you can teach this old dog some new tricks.”

They run smoothly through the sketch, Than explaining the basics and David following along cluelessly until he erupts into the recognisable chords from I Wanna Hold Your Hand by the Beatles. Than joins him, picking up the vocals seamlessly before transitioning them to My Girl. They flip through a few more songs, David “improving” with Than’s help. The audience’s applause grows louder and louder as they watch the world’s biggest talk show host jam with the world’s biggest rock star.

Eventually they stand, taking exaggerated bows to a standing ovation from the enraptured audience. They sit back down, and Than knows it’s coming, the curveball, David’s eye taking on a mischievous glint.

“So, Thanatos, since we’re lucky enough to have one of the world’s greatest guitarists with one of his favourite guitars, play us something.”

Than laughs easily. “Ah, David, I wish I could give you guys a preview of one of the songs on the new album, but not yet, not yet. Invite me back in a month and we’ll talk.”

“I’ll hold you to that, Thanatos. For now, though, why don’t you play us whatever’s in your heart? We all saw that photo of you looking all sad and lonely in Central Park the other day, didn’t we ladies and gentleman?” David waits for the audience to yell their agreement before charging on. “I can’t ask you about your love life or your PR people will excommunicate me –” he slides a finger across his throat “– but I can ask you to play us something. Yeah?”

He leads the audience in a chant of “play us something” until Than raises a hand, a begrudging smile plastered on his face. He takes a deep breath, not knowing what he’s going to play until his fingers touch the strings. He strums a single G chord before he opens his mouth to sing, his eyes fluttering closed almost immediately as he launches into Ellie Goulding's Love Me Like You Do.

You're the light, you're the night
You're the colour of my blood
You're the cure, you're the pain
You're the only thing I wanna touch
Never knew that it could mean so much, so much

He can feel the audience watching, consciously relaxing his posture so that the weight of their attention slips away as he sings. He doesn't even particularly like the song all that much, but it seems to perfectly describe how he feels.

You're the fear, I don't care
'Cause I've never been so high
Follow me through the dark
Let me take you past our satellites
You can see the world you brought to life, to life

So love me like you do, lo-lo-love me like you do
Love me like you do, lo-lo-love me like you do
Touch me like you do, to-to-touch me like you do
What are you waiting for?

He sings the whole song, completely incapable of stopping, lyrics he wasn’t aware he knew spilling from his lips to match the chord progressions he’s figuring out on the fly. He lets go when he reaches the final chorus, letting the full power of his voice out, trusting that the professionals on the sound desk will make it work.

It feels cathartic to let his emotions out in public, even if they’re hidden behind a song. He wonders if Zag watches David Falcon. If he’ll realise that Than sings for him, melody tearing its way out of his mouth in obscured tribute.

What are you waiting for?

He sings the final line softly, his voice fading out in a breathy sigh. When he opens his eyes the audience goes wild, clapping and stomping, David Falcon joining them, his eyes sparkling.

When the applause dies down, David leans forward, his silvered eyebrows raised high on his suspiciously smooth forehead. “Who’s the lucky lady?”

Than manages a knowing smirk. “That’d be telling, now, wouldn’t it?”

Back in the dressing room, Hypnos takes the Cosmos from his hands and puts it carefully away before hugging him close. “I’m pretty sure that video is gonna be everywhere after it airs tomorrow. Great publicity, but damn. You were singing for him, right?”

Than gives him a shaky smile. “I’m not sure how much more of this I can take, Hyp. I need to talk to him.”

Hypnos sighs heavily. “Sure, Than. I miss seeing you as happy as you were in Greece. Let’s figure out a plan tomorrow? We’ll all help.”

“Thanks, bro.”

“Let’s get you home.”

Charon thumps him gently on the shoulder as he gets into the car, a sympathetic smile on his face.

Dusa is waiting for him when he walks in the front door, guitar case held loosely in his hand. She trails him into the music room, watching as he places the Cosmos back on its stand, sliding the case away in the storage unit.

“I found the mouse, Mister Thanatos. I’m so sorry, I missed him when I was unpacking, he was just sitting there in the bottom of the case,” she gabbles, handing him Mort.

Than stops himself from hugging the plush mouse to his chest. “It’s alright, Dusa. I’m happy to have him back, thanks for finding him.”

“I found something else,” Dusa squeaks, handing him a postcard. “I’m sorry, it was stuck in one of the pockets, I didn’t see it.”

“It’s alright,” Than replies automatically, glancing down at the glossy image on the card. Petaloudes Butterfly Reserve. His heart immediately jumps into his throat, and it’s everything he can do to stop himself turning it over in front of Dusa. “Thanks. Look, I’m gonna call it a night. See you tomorrow.”

He hurries to his bedroom, barely responding to Dusa’s goodnight wishes, holding the postcard as if it’s an unexploded bomb. Mort sits on the bed next to him as he cradles the glossy card in his hands. Swallowing, he turns it over.

If things are ever different - Z x

Below it, a ten digit number, prefixed with +30, which Than assumes is the country code for Greece.

He grabs his phone, dialling his brother immediately. “Hyp? Can you come up? We need to talk right now. It can’t wait.”

Chapter Text

“Nice of the hotel to let us use the pool the day after the wedding, huh?” Miltos sighs happily, taking a sip from the elaborate mocktail beside him.

“Just good business,” Zag shrugs. “Angelina and Evgenis spent a ton last night and block booked loads of rooms, letting the guests use the pool on the day of departure means they’re even more likely to recommend this place to others. Recommendations sell better than marketing for weddings and events." He turns over to lie on his stomach, keen to feel the sun on his back.

“Huh. Things you learn from people who work in hospitality,” Miltos muses, stretching his arms above his head. “So, what happened with you and Dani last night?”

Zag groans, pillowing his cheek on his forearm and turning his head to catch Miltos’ eye. “I fucked up. She was flirting with me, I thought about it and decided that I should flirt back, try to get over James. We kissed, it felt wrong, I tried to let her down gently and she understandably wasn’t very happy about it.”

“Mmm. She told Cristina you were too short for her anyway.”

“Ha!” Zag snorts. “I guess we both dodged a bullet, then.”

“I guess so.” Miltos leans across and ruffles his pool damp hair affectionately. “So when you say it felt wrong, what does that mean?”

“Couldn’t stop comparing her to James,” Zag murmurs, grabbing his own mocktail and sitting up just enough to take a sip.

“You got it bad, my friend. I’m guessing his name isn’t really James?”

“Not answering that.”

“He’s famous, isn’t he? Or at least in the entourage of someone famous?”

“Not answering that, either.”

Miltos laughs. “Worth a try. So what’re you gonna do?”

“Sigh melodramatically until time heals all wounds, I guess.” Zag turns over, flipping his sunglasses down over his eyes. “I got a text this morning, by the way. Captain Poseidon asked me to head back to the yacht tomorrow, a last minute two day charter came through overnight. Sorry, we’re gonna have to postpone the sailing trip.”

“No problem, Zag, we got to hang out for the wedding, that’s the most important thing. I’ll take a smaller boat out by myself. Two day charter, that’s basically a party, right?”

“Yeah. The yacht’s sailing over here this evening, as luck would have it the charter starts in Paros. Clients are boarding in the late afternoon, Anna’s handling the planning today, I need to be aboard just after lunch to catch up.”

“Think you can sneak me in?” Miltos winks.

“Doubt it. Rich people are surprisingly stingy about who gets to come to their exclusive parties.”

Miltos nods, sucking the last of his mocktail noisily through the striped straw and smacking his lips. “Wanna swim?”

“Sure,” Zag replies, waiting for Miltos to stand and wander close to the edge of the water before leaping up and pushing him in.

They while away the afternoon, gobbling burgers and fries at the pool bar at lunchtime and waiting the minimum amount of time required before jumping back in the water. They toast Angelina and Evgenis, already on their way to Mykonos for a few days in a fancy hotel. Their drink orders transition smoothly from mocktails to cocktails just as soon as their aching heads allow, although they limit themselves to two each. When the afternoon cools off, Zag orders dinner to go from the hotel’s restaurant, hugging Miltos goodbye and hopping in a taxi back to his mother’s cottage.

They eat outside, drinking glasses of pomegranate lemonade as Zag gives her a complete run down of the wedding, sparing no detail on the outfits, the speeches and the dancing. Evgenis and Angelina had invited her, but she chose not to come, preferring the quiet serenity of her own company over large crowds of people.

Later, Zag throws a change of clothes into his backpack, travelling light given the short charter. It’s gone eleven by the time he gets into bed, tugging the covers up against the slight September chill. The vacation season has another few weeks at most before the tourists disappear until the weather warms up again. The Agape Mou will spend most of the low season in maintenance, with the occasional charter for parties and events.

Usually Zag chooses to spend the winter doing a course, adding more skills to his repertoire. He hasn't even thought about what he'd like to learn this year, distracted by charter after busy charter. And by a certain platinum blonde rock star, of course. He banishes all thoughts of the future, vowing to worry about it after the charter.

He grabs his phone, realising that he hasn’t had a moment to check in since this morning. He replies to a few messages, texts Anna to see if she needs any help, and checks the alert he has set up on Than’s name. His eyebrows creep upwards when he sees just how many links there are to sift through.

A few minutes of scrolling reveals that all the stories are commentary on a single video clip from a talk show that aired last night. And they're all speculating about who’s captured Than’s heart. Zag bites his lip, unsure if he’s ready to see Than fawning over someone else, even if it’s contrived. He slides out of bed, scrabbling in the dark for a pair of headphones, pressing play on a video of the complete segment and steeling himself.

Than smoulders on camera, his dark purple shirt revealing enough of his chest that Zag is immediately reminded of sucking his nipple that night in the hot tub. The banter seems casual enough, giving Zag a moment to snuggle under the covers on his back, holding his phone in the air above his face. A moment later he sits up again, leaning over the screen eagerly, watching Than teach the host how to play a few chords. The skit is engaging enough, but Zag can’t take his eyes off Than’s guitar. The body is beautiful, painted to look like a night sky, with two constellations picked out in silver paint. He watches closely, waiting for Than’s hands to move enough that he can identify the patterns, his heart clenching as he dares hope that he already knows which ones they are. Moments later, Than lifts his hands into the air, giving Zag a clear view of the guitar. He nearly drops the phone, one hand rising to his mouth as a huge grin spreads over his face.

The constellations painted on the guitar are Perseus and Andromeda. The ones they traced in the sky together, first in the hot tub, and then on the lounger that last night.

His eyes are suddenly swimming in unshed tears. Zag has wondered for weeks whether Than is still thinking about him, or whether he faded from his mind after he landed back home. Now he knows.

A fat tear rolls down his cheek, his heart aching sweetly.

The talk show host mentions the photo of Than in Central Park, and Zag finds himself disappointed that he doesn’t press for details, simply asking Than to play something instead. Than tries to brush him off, but the host leads the audience in a rousing chant, and eventually Than raises his hand, choosing the only option open to him.

When his eyes drift shut and he starts singing, the tears spill down Zag’s cheeks in earnest. Than sings like he means every word, and although there’s a chance that he’s just putting on a good show, the combination of his heartfelt vocals and the constellations painted on his guitar make Zag feel like Than is singing for him.

He chokes back a sob, watching Than finish the song with a breathy, soft rendition of the final lyric, his amber eyes full of emotion when they blink open. He smiles as Than deflects the question of who he’s singing for. Brushing at his damp cheeks, he watches the video again.

Zag springs out of bed and crosses the room, Than’s voice soulful in his earbuds. He grabs his backpack, tugging the locked box containing his passport and identity documents free. He unlocks it, taking Than’s note from the bottom, tracing his finger over the phone number and wondering whether he should call. Before he can think too hard he dials Than’s number, glancing at the clock and doing some quick calculations. Four fifteen in the afternoon in New York. He presses the call button, his heart in his throat as he lifts the phone to his ear, waiting for the call to connect. Calling the USA will cost him a fortune, but he can’t think of anything else he’d rather spend money on right now.

The number you have dialled can’t be reached right now. Please try again later.

Zag ends the call, his stomach fizzing with excitement and disappointment. He briefly considers texting and immediately decides against it. He wants to hear Than’s voice, hear his reaction when Zag tells him that he’s watched the video and seen his guitar.

That night, Zag falls asleep listening to Than’s voice, singing Love Me Like You Do on repeat. The next morning, he almost tries to call again, forgetting the seven hour time difference and hastily ending the call before he interrupts Than’s sleep. His mother eyes him suspiciously over breakfast, going so far as placing a hand on his forehead to check for a fever. She’s still frowning at him when he gets into the taxi to the Agape Mou, even though he’s promised her a hundred times that he’s fine.

He stares at his phone during the drive, trying to decide how early he can get away with calling. Midday in Paros, five in the morning in New York, definitely too early. Six in the morning could be okay, though. Seven, definitely. He’ll try Than again at two in the afternoon Greece time.

Anna intercepts him the moment he boards. “Zag! How was the wedding?”

“Amazing, thanks. So good to spend time with everyone, and everything went smoothly, thank God. How’re you? How’s everything going for the charter?”

“Fine, fine, your job is easy, I don’t know what you complain about,” Anna winks, giggling when he rolls his eyes in response. “Kidding, kidding. Take your bag to your bunk and meet me in the crew mess, okay? I’ll be leading the briefing today.”

Zag grins proudly. “Sure thing, Anna. Thanks for doing all the heavy lifting, you’re the best.”

He runs down the hall to the crew quarters, slinging his backpack onto his bunk and sliding his phone into his pocket, hoping he can find a few minutes to himself as soon as the clock strikes two. He glances at himself in the mirror, re-tying his ponytail and adjusting his uniform minutely.

The door to the crew mess swings open smoothly, and Zag immediately turns towards the coffee machine before he notices a tall figure in his peripheral vision. His heart starts pounding in his chest as he turns back, thudding so hard he almost feels light headed, one hand flying up to press against his sternum. Than leans against the wall, wearing sweatpants and a crumpled t-shirt, his hands shoved in his pockets.

He pushes away from the wall, a hesitant smile on his face. Zag finds that he can’t move, rooted to the spot just inside the door. Adrenaline floods his body so fast he can do nothing but let the shockwave crash over him, one hand on his chest, his mouth hanging open in surprise. He watches Than walk over, his steps slow and cautious as if he’s not sure what reaction to expect.

“You came back,” Zag whispers, letting his hand fall loosely from his chest to his side.

“I had to come back.” Than stops a couple of steps away. A couple of steps, a running leap, whatever, he’s close enough that Zag can almost touch him. Almost.

“Did you… leave something?” Zag asks, his mouth suddenly dry. “Or did you come back for the party?” His hands are shaking. His whole body is trembling, his mouth asking idiotic questions that definitely aren’t the questions he wants to ask. “Or did you–”

“I came back for you,” Than interrupts, his fingers twitching as he almost reaches out, cutting off the movement abruptly. “I can’t stop thinking about you, Zag. I came back for you. Tell me you want me too. Tell me you’ve been thinking about me even though I walked away from you like the fuckup I am.”

“I think about you every day,” Zag murmurs, a solitary tear dripping down his cheek. Even to his own ears his voice is blurred with emotion, his heart screaming Than’s name with every beat. “You’re not a fuckup. You’re amazing. Of course I want you. All I've been thinking about is how much I wish I could see you again.”

They close the distance, bodies colliding as Than’s arms wrap around Zag’s back, hauling him close. Zag’s arms twine around Than’s waist, muscles tensing as he cages Than in his embrace. He buries his face in Than’s chest, feeling the warmth of his cheek resting gently on the crown of his head. Before he knows it, he’s sobbing, dizzy with the relief and the joy spreading through his body.

“Don’t cry,” Than says, his own voice thick. “Don’t cry, Zag, I’ve got you.”

He releases one arm from around Zag’s shoulders, tipping his face up so he has no choice but to meet his gaze through his tears. Than’s eyes are damp, too, a gleaming tear track winding its way down his cheekbone.

Zag stretches up as Than dips down, their lips meeting in a kiss so perfect that Zag’s heart feels like a firework in his chest, exploding into wave after wave of joyful, silver sparks, bright enough to light up the sky from horizon to horizon.

He lifts his hand from Than’s waist, cupping his jaw and kissing him again. His lips feel perfect moving against Zag's, each delicate brush sending tendrils of tingling electricity over his skin.

Eventually they part, dragging in deep breaths and wearing matching euphoric smiles.

“I missed you so much,” Zag says quietly. “I thought you’d call if you wanted me.”

“I didn’t find the postcard until two nights ago, or I would have,” Than smiles sadly. “I thought you would call me, actually, if you wanted me.”

“You have so much more to lose than I do. I didn’t want to make that decision for you.” Zag bites his lip, gazing up into Than’s eyes, glowing molten gold with the depth of his emotions. “I watched the video last night. And I saw the guitar. I tried to call, as soon as I thought there was a tiny chance you still wanted me.”

“I was on a plane,” Than chuckles, pressing his forehead briefly to Zag’s and kissing him lightly. “Flying halfway around the world in the hope you’d want to see me. When I found the postcard, after I saw your karaoke videos–”

“You saw those?!” Laughter bubbles up Zag’s throat, bursting happily from his lips. “Oh god. I drunkenly hoped you might. Did you hear–”

“Oh yeah, I heard. You don’t want to miss a thing?” Than rubs his nose gently over Zag’s, his hand stroking down his shoulder, coming to rest possessively against the small of his back.

“I really don’t,” Zag grins, stretching up to kiss him again. “So what do we do now?”

“We need to talk. And probably put Anna out of her misery, I got the feeling she’s desperate to know if this reunion is going as well as she hoped it would.”

“Mmm, I’m reserving judgement until later. Kissing you in the crew lounge is nice and all, but I can think of better places to kiss you.” Zag winks, his fingers gripping Than’s waist gently, desire flickering through his body.

“Oh yeah? Me too. I’ll kiss you wherever I can, for now,” Than says, immediately making good on his word. “I have a suite at Parilio. We can talk more there. But we’ll need to travel separately. The press are on pretty high alert after the video went viral.”

“Fine by me. Sorry, stupid question. Just checking, this last minute charter… that was all you?”

“There's no last minute charter, Zag. Captain Poseidon and Anna just helped us out.” Than smiles, pulling him close and kissing his forehead before tucking a keycard into his hand. “There’ll be a car outside for you in ten minutes, just a normal taxi. Change into your regular clothes before you come, alright? We're in the Sun Suite. Let yourself in, and I’ll see you there.”

“See you there, Than. I can’t wait,” Zag murmurs, unable to resist kissing him one more time before he walks out of the door, glancing back as if he can’t believe his luck. Zag shivers; he’s the one who can’t believe his luck. He can’t wait to meet Than at the hotel, can’t wait to hold him, kiss him, everything.

Barely a minute later, Anna creeps in, her eyes bright and full of hope and excitement. “So? So?”

Zag hugs her close, squeezing hard enough that she yelps. “Thank you, thank you, thank you. I’m so happy I could cry.”

“Looks like you already did,” she laughs.

“Yeah, I did,” Zag says proudly. “Seriously, thank you so much for helping him. I was so surprised I thought I was gonna have a heart attack.”

“I’m glad you didn’t, he flew all the way here to make a big romantic gesture, the least you can do is remain alive for the duration,” Anna says, her voice sparkling. “He came straight here from the plane, you know. Couldn't wait to see you."

“God, he’s wonderful,” Zag sighs dreamily. “I better get my stuff and go, right?”

“Yeah. Good luck, Zag. I bet you two have a lot to figure out.”

“We do,” Zag replies, hugging her once more before he slips out of the door. “I’ll take all the luck we can get. See you, Anna. Thanks again.”

He tugs a pair of denim cutoffs and a t-shirt from his backpack and dresses quickly, amazed at how much has changed since he dropped his backpack off less than half an hour ago. His barely worn uniform goes into the crew laundry basket, his bag slung over his shoulders as he prepares to leave the yacht. Walking through the crew quarters, he pops his head around Captain Poseidon’s door, knocking gently.

The Captain is working through what looks like a repairs report, glancing up from under his bushy eyebrows and smiling. “Zagreus, I take it everything went well with Thanatos?”

“Yes, sir. Thank you so much, it was the best surprise. Anything I can do for you before I head out?”

“No, no, don’t worry about us. Take a few days extra leave, let’s talk early next week.”

“Thank you, sir.” Zag grins, giving him a jaunty little wave.

The taxi idles just beyond the gangway, right on time. Zag slides into the backseat, asking the driver to take him to Parilio and immediately taking his phone from his pocket. He can text Than, now, surely? He sends a quick message, unable to resist.

Sent 13:08
Can’t wait to see you! 😘

Received 13:08
I’m almost there, not long now!
You have Telegram or WhatsApp? Safer to use something encrypted.

Zag frowns, tapping the green icon to switch over. He hadn’t considered that someone might try to hack Than’s phone, or intercept his messages, but it seems like a very reasonable thing to be worried about.

Hi. This okay?
13:09

Yeah, thanks. Sorry for being paranoid.
One of the many things we need to talk about 😔
13:09

It’s fine. You’re worth it.
13:09

Maybe wait before you make that decision, okay?
If we’re going to make this work, it’s going to be hard.
13:09

I’m up for a challenge.
And you’re definitely worth it.
Plus, I like hard things 😏
13:10

Are you flirting with me? 😳
13:10

Trying to get an early start on foreplay
I missed you a lot, you know 😉
13:10

I’m getting the impression you’d prefer to talk later…
13:11

Honestly, I think I’ll be distracted if we talk first.
I just want to be as close to you as possible.
No pressure, though. Whatever you want.
13:11

In that case, I’ll get straight in the shower
Join me when you arrive? 😉
13:11

Telling the taxi driver to hurry up 🥵
See you soon 😘
13:11

Chapter Text

The car pulls up outside Parilio, Charon opening the door after a quick security check of the lobby. They walk through together, Charon’s body shielding Than from view as much as possible, his presence dependable and reassuring.

“Thanks for coming with me, Charon,” Than murmurs. “Really appreciate you dropping everything for this trip.”

“Pleasure,” Charon rumbles, knocking Than’s shoulder gently as they round the corner towards the Sun Suite. He opens the door, handing Than the keycard and walking in ahead of him, placing a paper bag on the nearest table. “Pretty secure. Checked the terrace, someone could get you with a zoom lens. Stay inside.”

“Alright, thanks,” Than replies, moving around to take in the room.

The suite is spacious enough, clean white walls complemented by wall hangings and soft furnishings in caramel and chocolate brown. The bedroom isn’t separate, distanced from the living space by a low wood panelled divider, a squashy cream couch pushed up against it. It’s a little more compact than the suites he’s used to, but the vibe is warm and cosy. Exactly what he wants for the next few days with Zag, assuming he chooses to stay.

“I’m down the hall. Call if you need anything.” Charon walks to the door, pausing with his fingers wrapped around the handle.

“Will do. Thanks for getting everything ready while I was on the yacht,” Than says, filled with gratitude for his older brother. He crosses the room, pulling Charon in for a quick hug before stepping back to let him open the door. “I’ll message you later.”

Charon nods, closing the door behind him with a soft click.

Than sighs happily, taking the paper bag and moving its contents into the nightstand drawer before he starts stripping off. He feels tired and grimy, the residue of a twelve hour flight followed by an hour of anxiously waiting for Zag still sticking to his skin.

He smiles, remembering the sweetness of Zag stepping into his arms. Tired as he is, he would do it all again in a heartbeat.

The bathroom is all sand coloured stone, simple and chic, with an open shower area big enough for two. Than turns on the water, winding his hair into a loose bun before he steps under the spray. Warm water cascades down over his weary body, drawing a contented sigh from his lips. He reaches for the bottle of body wash, eager to clean off before Zag arrives.

He's standing with his eyes closed, enjoying the sensation of hot water beating down on his shoulders, when a familiar voice echoes through the room.

“You’re gorgeous. How is it possible you look even hotter than you do in my memories?”

Than opens his eyes and turns round, his heart jumping as he meets Zag’s mismatched gaze. He’s carelessly handsome, leaning casually against the wall in a simple white t-shirt and a pair of denim cutoffs, a knowing smirk draped over his lips.

“Take your clothes off and join me,” Than replies, his voice already husky.

Zag grins, grabbing the hem of his t-shirt and pulling it over his head, exposing a feast of olive skin. “Last time I watched you in the shower, you were much more entertaining.”

Than bites his lip, remembering their mutual teasing before he fucked Zag against the bathroom wall. “The only hand I want on my dick right now is yours, Zag.” He watches as Zag’s fingers still on the button of his cutoffs, his smile turning feral as he remembers too. “Don’t tease me. I’ve been waiting for you for so long.”

Zag’s fingers jerk back into action, tearing his fly open and pushing the cutoffs and his underwear down his thighs. “No teasing. I’ll give you anything, whatever you want.”

He strides across the room, pushing Than against the cool stone wall and kissing him roughly, his fingers brushing the short hair of Than’s undercut and twining into his hair. Than finds himself quickly overwhelmed, lips tingling with the intensity and desperation of their kisses, his body already lit up with anticipation at the sensation of Zag’s skin against his.

“I want you,” Than whispers, breathless already.

“I’m yours,” Zag replies, his lips moving steadily down his throat.

Than cups his face in both hands, shifting him across the tiled space until his back connects with the wall. He groans into his mouth, shivers running down his spine as Zag gropes his ass and pulls him closer, their cocks brushing so sweetly their kiss dissolves into hungry gasps.

Zag tries to push his hand between them, his intentions clear. Than intercepts him, interlacing their fingers and squeezing gently. “I’m probably going to come embarrassingly quickly.”

“I don’t care,” Zag breathes, his pupils dilated as he gazes up at him. “Let me touch you.”

Than dips to kiss his pinkening lips before mouthing along his cheekbone to whisper in his ear. “I want to come inside you.”

A shudder tears through Zag’s body, his fingers digging into Than’s ass. “I almost forgot how you can turn me into a puddle like that. Remember the second time, how you whispered in my ear when you were fucking me?”

“As if I could forget,” Than laughs hoarsely, brushing his lips over a sensitive spot behind Zag’s ear. “I’ve thought about that afternoon a lot.”

“Yeah?” Zag gasps as Than trails kisses over the shell of his ear on his way to bite the lobe.

“Yeah. How it felt to finally see you naked. God, how fucking good you looked, riding me and then writhing underneath me. How you felt, how tight you were when you came. Fuck, Zag, I missed you.”

Their lips find each other again, exchanging open mouthed, hungry kisses that are regularly broken by shuddering gasps as their wet bodies slip and slide together. Than lets go of Zag’s hand, bending slightly to cup the backs of his thighs, lifting him so their lengths press together perfectly. Zag’s hard as stone and he is too, torn between wanting to rut against him until they both come and wanting to take him slowly on the bed.

“I didn’t just miss this.” Than forces himself to slow the roll of his hips, holding Zag as close as he can. “I missed you. I missed your smile. Your laugh. Your taste in reality TV.”

Zag laughs shakily, his lips plush against Than’s.

“I missed talking to you. I missed looking at the stars with you. I missed you every morning when I woke up alone,” Than continues, his mouth baring his heart without permission or reason.

“Than,” Zag whispers, his hands petting and tugging his hair, hips bucking forward desperately. “I missed you too. I want…” His voice trails off into a groan as their cocks grind together between them.

“You want me to take you here? Get down on my knees and worship you until you scream?” Than asks, his fingers kneading Zag’s ass, enjoying the swell of it in his hands. “Tell me what you want, Zag.”

“I need you inside me.” Zag utters the words between kisses, as if he just can’t stay away. “Take me to bed, Than, please .”

Than lets him slide slowly back down to the tiled floor, fumbling blindly to turn the water off. He grabs a towel, rubbing it gently over Zag’s back and chest and then kneeling before him, drying his legs and his stomach, careful to avoid his blushing cock.

“Look at you,” he mumbles, entranced. “You’re so beautiful. Every part of you, gorgeous.”

He looks up, catching Zag’s eyes and smiling, the fire in his blood mellowing until it glows and smoulders. Zag stares down at him, his fingers trailing over Than’s cheekbone, his jaw, his lips. He tugs Than upwards, kissing him slowly, a low rumble in his chest as he luxuriates in their closeness.

They exchange kisses all the way from the bathroom to the bedroom, avoiding the furniture until Than bangs his shin against the corner of the bed.

“Ow! Fuck,” he yelps, dissolving into laughter at how categorically unsexy he’s being. Zag pulls him close, giggling into his shoulder and stroking his back until the pain fades to a forgettable ache.

“So clumsy.” Zag smiles up at him, so beautiful Than can’t help but kiss him, raining staccato kisses over his soft lips. Before long the kisses blur into one another, turning hot and sensual as their hands roam freely over each other’s warm skin.

Than walks Zag backwards, pushing him onto the bed and crawling over him. He runs a greedy hand down his hip and thigh, lifting his leg to wrap around his hip.

“I didn’t bring lube and condoms,” Zag gasps, his eyes suddenly panicked.

“It’s okay. I have some,” Than murmurs reassuringly, pushing a strand of damp hair back from Zag’s brow. “Sent Charon to the drugstore as soon as we arrived.”

Zag’s expression morphs from concern to shock to laughter. “You asked your brother to get lube and condoms? Oh god, I’m so embarrassed.”

“Don’t be.” Than rubs his nose against Zag’s gently. “He’s cool. Not like he didn’t know we were fucking, anyway.”

“I guess,” Zag smiles shyly. “So where were we?”

Than leans over, rummaging in the nightstand for the bottle of lube, breaking the seal and flipping the cap open. “I was about to open you up and then fuck you like I’ve been imagining for weeks.”

Zag takes the bottle, squeezing the cool liquid onto Than’s fingers. “Good. Carry on, then.”

Than laughs, unable to resist stroking his fingers down Zag’s length once before circling his entrance gently. “So romantic, Zagreus.”

“Communication is romantic, Thanatos,” Zag smirks, his hips twitching upwards.

"Agreed," Than replies, brushing his lips slowly over Zag's as he pushes his index finger gently inside. "So tell me how this feels."

"Feels great, but I know your cock is gonna feel so much better." Zag loops his arms around Than's neck and tugs him down, his tongue immediately sliding between his lips.

Than loses himself in Zag's kiss, pushing another finger into him as soon as feels reasonable. He feels almost dizzy with relief, Zag's body pressed firmly against his again. Even though he doesn't know where they'll go from here, he knows they'll figure it out together.

He doesn’t need to pretend that Zag is just a fling any longer.

The thought lifts Than's heart more than he thought possible. Zag seems to feel the same, kissing him with just as much intensity as before but with infinitely more tenderness, his hands returning to Than's face time and time again.

"Ready for me?" Than whispers, nuzzling his nose against Zag's.

"Yeah, take me," Zag replies, his mismatched eyes glowing.

Than pulls his fingers gently from Zag's hole, cleaning them quickly before he tears the film from the box of condoms. Zag gazes up at him, running his fingers over his thighs as if he can't believe Than is really here. It takes far too long to roll the condom on, even longer still to apply a little more lube before he settles between Zag's legs. "How do you want it?"

"Like this," Zag murmurs, grabbing a pillow and shoving it beneath him. He curves his hand over the back of Than's neck and pulls him down to brush their lips together again. "Face to face."

Zag spreads his legs, drawing his knees up and back. Than kneels, taking just a moment to run his gaze thoroughly over his body, his stomach hollowing as he notices just how hard Zag's cock is against his belly.

He lines himself up and pushes slowly inside, eyes fixed on Zag's face as he throws his head back and moans. "Good?" he pants, realising just how much he's missed this feeling, Zag's body addictively tight around him.

"I missed your cock," Zag whispers, breathless. "I missed you."

Their lips drift back together, exchanging tender kisses as Zag adjusts. “You ready?”

“Yeah, move.” Zag wraps a leg around him, pressing his heel into the small of his back.

Than starts fucking him in long, slow strokes, his hips pressing firmly against the back of Zag's thighs every time he sheathes himself fully inside. He slides one hand along Zag’s arm, capturing his wrist and pressing his hand into the sheets by his head. Their fingers tangle together automatically, Zag squeezing gently as he wraps his legs around Than’s hips.

“Zag,” Than whispers helplessly, squeezing back. “Oh, Zag…”

They move together with smooth fluidity as if they’ve been together for years, not hours. Than tries to ignore the pleasure rippling through his dick, Zag’s hole tightening around him with every thrust. Zag whimpers beneath him, his face flushing an adorable shade of red. His tongue darts out to lick his lips, hips rocking in a delicious rhythm with Than's thrusts.

Than’s lips return to his again and again, hoping Zag feels the affection that pours from Than’s body to his with every movement.

“Put my legs over your shoulders," Zag moans, squeezing his fingers tight.

Than lets go of his hand, pulling out and doing as he asks before sinking slowly back into him. "I love how flexible you are. And I love how deep this is." He punctuates his words with a hard thrust, his hands cradling Zag's hips.

Zag moans, one hand reaching to drape over Than's, the other stroking his cock. "I'm not gonna last, Than. I missed you so much."

"We have the rest of the day and all night." Than speeds up his thrusts, changing the angle until Zag cries out, tightening around him. He hums with satisfaction, committing everything to memory as he ploughs the head of his cock against that spot again and again, fascinated by the slack-mouthed abandon taking over Zag’s face.

Pleasure crackles across every inch of his skin, building with each thrust and with every hungry glance at Zag. He looks down, watching his cock sink smoothly into Zag's body, the sight almost taking him over the edge. He drags his eyes upwards, his gaze snagging on Zag's hand stroking and squeezing his leaking cock, until he's gazing into his eyes.

His orgasm takes him by surprise. It's an effort to keep his eyes open, but it's so worth it, his pleasure deepened by a close up view of Zag’s face as he watches Than's peak overtake him. Than grinds helplessly inside him, his orgasm drawn out as Zag’s expression contorts with his own climax. Than kisses him, thrusting gently as they pant and gasp, lost in each other, clutching at each other’s bodies as the sensations heighten and then soften.

Than pulls out gently, cleaning Zag's belly and wrapping the condom. He collapses on top of him, keeping the majority of his weight braced on his forearms, his head pillowed comfortably on his chest. Zag's fingers unravel his bun, stroking through the damp strands and teasing the tangles out carefully.

"So good," Zag sighs, his nails scratching pleasantly against Than's scalp. “You feel so good.”

Than can only hum happily in reply, his head warm and fuzzy in the afterglow.

"Tired? You travelled such a long way."

"Nah. I feel great." Than rubs his cheek against Zag's pectoral muscle, nearly purring as he continues to stroke his hair.

Zag chuckles. "You're like a big blonde cat."

"Just wait til I ask you to rub my belly," Than smiles, tilting his head to gaze up at Zag, his chest tight with emotion.

"Cats don't like belly rubs," Zag grins, stroking Than’s back instead.

"Some of them do," Than replies, crawling over Zag and lying next to him, tugging his shoulder to encourage him to roll over to face him. "We had a cat when we were kids. She loved belly rubs."

"We had a dog. He stayed with my father when my parents split up."

"I'm sorry. Losing a pet is rough however it happens." Than leans forward to press a kiss to Zag's forehead.

"Thanks." Zag grabs Than's face and kisses him noisily on the lips. "That was incredible, by the way.”

“It was. You’re incredible.”

“No, you.” Zag drags his fingers over the line of Than’s jaw. His expression dims, a tiny frown creasing the skin between his eyebrows. “So, I guess we should talk?"

"We should. You wanna order some food and sit on the couch?" Than's stomach twists with nerves. He's thrilled that Zag is with him, but does he want to be with him? Even with everything that might mean?

"Sure," Zag replies, his eyes sliding away briefly. "But first… I need to ask. Did you come back because you just wanted more of what we had before, or because you want to be together for real? Are things different?"

Than takes Zag's hand, rubbing his thumb over his knuckles. "Things aren't different. But I don't think that matters any more. I want to be with you. The question is whether you want that too, and if you do, how we make it work."

"I want it, Than," Zag says quietly, cradling Than's hand between his own. "I'm worried about what it'll cost you."

"And I'm worried about what it'll cost you . We both have a lot to lose. And a lot to gain." Than raises their hands to his lips, pressing kisses against Zag's fingers.

Zag sighs heavily. "Let's get some food, alright? Feels like the kind of conversation that needs a full stomach."

"Good plan. I'll find us some robes, you order us some room service? I'll eat anything." Than kisses him once more before he crawls off the bed.

"Carbs, right? I'll get you some kind of gigantic sandwich." Zag stretches luxuriantly and rolls out of bed.

Than smiles, crossing the room to the closet. He finds two soft white waffle robes, tugging them from their hangers and pulling one on, walking the other across the room to where Zag is reading the room service menu. He drapes the robe around his shoulders, hugging him from behind and looking at the menu over his shoulder.

Zag lifts the phone and orders club sandwiches for both of them. Than points at the coffee section of the menu, and Zag orders two lattes. He hangs up, leaning back into Than's arms and sighing happily.

"Hey, Zag?" Than murmurs, stomach fluttering with nerves. "Can I ask you something?"

"Anything," Zag replies, folding his arms over Than's across his belly.

"You remember you asked me if I was only interested in topping? I was thinking about it while we were apart… I want to know what it feels like. You inside me, I mean. I don't know if I'll like it, but I want to try."

Zag turns in his arms, reaching up to cup his jaw. "Sure. We'll go slow, work up to it. It can be very intense and very pleasurable, but the feeling takes a little getting used to. If you don't like it, we can always stop."

"Thank you," Than murmurs, ducking his head.

"Hey, no hiding, remember? If we're gonna be together, we need to be able to talk about anything, right?" Zag's eyes are supportive and warm, enough that Than feels his nerves ease.

He nods and pulls him close, stroking his hands over his back, enjoying the simple pleasure of holding the man he's been dreaming about for weeks. "I missed how you feel in my arms. You know I've been sleeping hugging a pillow these past few weeks?"

Zag giggles. "That's so sweet. Can I stay tonight? Then you can hug me in your sleep."

"I hoped you would. I booked the suite for a week, give us time to figure things out. Stay as long as you like."

"The whole week then," Zag mumbles, pressing kisses against Than's collarbone.

"I'd love that. There's somewhere I want to take you this afternoon, okay? After we've talked?" Than looks down at him, his heart softening at the radiant smile on his face.

"Sure," Zag replies. A knock on the door turns his head. "I'll let them in. Your turn to hide in the bathroom."

Than laughs, releasing Zag and shuffling off towards the bathroom. He waits, wondering if the surprise later will be too much, or if Zag will love the idea as much as he does.

"Alright, it's safe," Zag calls. "Do you want to eat outside?"

"Nah, Charon's worried someone might catch us with a zoom lens. The hedges aren't thick or high enough from the looks of it. Safer to stay indoors."

Zag sits on the couch, patting the space beside him. "Okay. Starting to understand what you meant when you said I had a lot to lose too."

Than sits with his back pressed against the arm of the couch, facing Zag with one leg tucked under him. "Yeah. Being in the public eye means losing a lot of privacy. If you're out in public, there's a good chance you're being watched. Photographers catch you doing the most mundane things and sell the pictures for a fortune. It's exhausting."

“I can only imagine.” Zag passes him a plate bearing a skewered sandwich. The bread is toasted golden brown, generously stuffed with bacon, tomato, lettuce, cheese and ham. His mouth waters as he looks at it. Zag grins, obviously noticing his hunger. “Go on. Not going to judge you if you gobble it down like a beast. I’m pretty hungry too, didn’t have time to get lunch before I boarded.”

Than smiles at him, reaching out to squeeze his thigh. He feels so relaxed in Zag’s company, as if he can speak and act without worrying too much about how he’ll be perceived. He just hopes that they can find a way to be together amidst all the craziness of life in the public eye.

Chapter Text

Zag watches Than take a bite of his sandwich before he turns his attention to his own. It’s hard to believe he’s here, sitting next to him, skin still damp with sweat from the sex they just had on the enormous hotel bed.

The suite is very luxurious, almost intimidatingly so. Zag has grown used to the opulence of the Agape Mou, the familiarity making it somehow less foreign to him. But this suite… it’s huge, with its own living area and a spacious bathroom, and even its own pool. Zag wishes he could swim in a private pool with Than, bask in the sun on a lounger in their own private garden. He understands the fear of being photographed, but that doesn’t make him want it any less.

They eat in silence for a few minutes before Than puts his sandwich down to pour them each a cup of coffee. “So, have you thought about what it’d be like, if we were together for real?”

Zag smiles, taking a grateful sip. “Beyond kissing you every opportunity I get, spending hours talking to you, and sleeping by your side? Not really, no. I can’t imagine how it can happen without one or both of us changing something pretty big.”

“You’re right. I think we have two options, really. We keep our relationship a secret, I fly out here as often as I can, you come visit me in the mountains or somewhere we won’t be chased by the press too much. Or, we go public.”

Zag nearly chokes on his mouthful, swallowing quickly. Than leans over and pats him gently on the back. “I’m okay, I’m okay. Going public is an option?”

Than smiles sadly. “Even if we keep things secret, there’s a risk we’ll get outed. If we go public, at least we control the story.”

“Sounds like there’s a but coming,” Zag murmurs, moving his hand to Than’s knee.

“Yeah. If we go public, the press will be very, very interested in you. They’ll dig up information about your friends and your family. Interview anyone who’ll talk about you. Follow you around trying to find out everything about you. Your life will change overnight.” Than slides his hand over Zag’s, squeezing gently. “I’m not trying to scare you, but I want you to know what it would be like.”

“Sounds like that’ll happen either way? If we keep our relationship a secret, and someone finds out, it could happen that way, too?” Zag drops the remains of his sandwich back onto the plate, no longer hungry.

“Yeah, it could. If you want to be with me, that’s the cost, Zag. I wouldn’t blame you if you decided you didn’t want it.” Than’s expression is neutral, but his eyes are sad, as if he expects him to change his mind once he considers the implications.

Zag’s stomach clenches. He wants to throw caution to the wind and dive in, cost regardless, but the repercussions Than describes are big enough to give him pause. He bites his lip, conscious that the cost isn’t his to bear alone. “And for you? If we go public, or if we get outed, that would ruin your career, right?”

“Maybe not immediately. There’ll be a lot of attention at first, because of the novelty factor. After that, who knows? We probably wouldn’t know until the next tour. It’s likely my career would be impacted in some form. It’s happened before, particularly for men.”

“You’d risk that for me?” Zag flushes, overwhelmed and slightly afraid. How can a new relationship grow and deepen if it starts with such substantial implications?

“Honestly?” Than looks uncomfortable.

“Yeah.”

“If I was completely happy and focused on my career, probably not. I told you before that something’s missing, and that I don’t know what I want any more. So, yeah, given that, and given that you’re the first thing that’s made me feel whole for a long, long time… yeah.”

Zag moves Than’s plate from his lap to the coffee table, crawling over towards him and cupping his face in his hands. “You’re amazing. So brave. It’d be so much easier to do nothing.”

“I lived most of my adult life ignoring a part of myself because I wanted to be successful. I’m a coward,” Than murmurs, his shoulders tense.

“You are not a coward. You’re scared. That’s okay. The fact that you’re willing to risk a change, not just for me but for yourself… you’re brave, Thanatos.” Zag kisses him gently, hoping Than feels every bit of the love and admiration he feels for him.

Zag suspects it is love, fast and early as it might be. The shimmering lightness in his heart, the infinite fascination, the fact that he finds himself more concerned with how Thanatos will be affected by their decisions than he cares about himself… It must be love.

“Thank you, Zag,” Than murmurs, resting his hand on Zag’s waist. “You make me feel better about myself. Thank you for that.”

“You’re very welcome.” Zag kisses him again before settling back down on the cushions next to him, draining his cup of coffee. “Look, I want this. I want us. You’re right that the changes that’d come from people finding out about us are huge. Can I think about it? If I’m honest, I’m scared too.”

“Hold on, are you saying that you want to think about the going public option? Or are you saying you’re thinking about whether we should do this at all?” Than frowns, his face a storm of fear and anxiety.

“No, no. I’m saying I want to think about going public straight away. I want to be with you, Than.” Zag shifts until he’s sitting in Than’s lap, wrapping his arms around him. “Walking away isn’t an option for me.”

“Thank fuck,” Than whispers, his eyes drifting closed as he presses his forehead to Zag’s. “If it’s what you wanted, I would do it, but I… I don’t want you to walk away.”

“We’ll figure it out together.” Zag cuddles closer, pecking Than lightly on the lips. “We will.”

They sit in silence, holding each other close, thinking about what the future might hold. Zag tries to imagine a world where his life isn’t his own, where the press print things about him and talk to people he knows. He can’t quite picture it, the image slipping and blurring with every attempt to make it concrete.

“Zag, there’s something I want to show you, okay? You up for a quick trip? Charon will drive us.” Than kisses his cheek demurely.

“Yeah, sure. I can drive, if you like.”

“It’s fine. Charon’s totally comfortable driving wherever. Let me text him, and we can get dressed, go in fifteen minutes?”

“Sounds good,” Zag replies, kissing Than’s nose before clambering out of his lap. "Do we have time for a quick shower?"

"Yeah, so long as you don't jump me again," Than grins, slapping Zag's ass as they walk to the bathroom.

"Huh, I'm pretty sure it was you who jumped me, actually," Zag giggles, turning to loosen the belt of Than's robe as they step onto the sand coloured tiles.

"See, you can't keep your hands off me. I better tell Charon thirty minutes." Than bites his lip, clearly trying to suppress his own laughter.

"Keep it up and I won't wash your back for you."

“My back’s pretty clean, there are other places that need washing though.”

They stand under the spray, giggling together as they wash, keeping their hands to themselves in the interest of time.

Twenty minutes later, they’re sitting hand in hand in the back of a SUV with darkened windows. Charon greeted Zag with a warm smile, so genuine that his embarrassment about his trip to the pharmacy dimmed enough for a brief hug. Than’s wearing oversized shades with his hair stuffed up in a cap again. They must be going somewhere at least semi public.

They drive towards the coast, Charon navigating the roads with ease. Eventually they turn down a private road, the SUV’s suspension absorbing the bumps as the paved surface gives way to dust and dirt. They stop beside a roughly rendered wall the colour of fresh cream, the beach a few steps away at the end of the road. Charon gets out, leaving them alone.

“Zag, this might be too much, bear with me,” Than says nervously. “I hoped you might want to give things between us a chance. I was thinking about it on the plane, and I realised most people don’t like living at a hotel all the time. I kinda got caught up imagining it and I figured even if you wanted to keep things quiet we’d need somewhere to go, so… My broker found this place. It’s up for sale, a traditional Cycladic house, apparently, and I thought… I thought you might like it.”

Zag undoes his seatbelt, turning around to stare at Than in disbelief. “Sorry, I’m… are you saying you want to buy this house?”

“If… if you like it, yeah. You said you wanted a place of your own for when you’re not working, and I thought we could… you know, if we keep things quiet… it could be our place. When I visit.” Than shifts in his seat, chewing his lip.

“Than, just so I’m sure, you’re saying you want to buy this place as a love nest for us?” A cocktail of emotions flies through Zag’s body. He feels at once excited, cherished, intimidated and overwhelmed. The idea that Than feels strongly enough to risk his career to be with him is one thing, that he would also consider making a home with him is another entirely. Even if he does have several homes already.

“If you like it, yeah. And it’d be yours, Zag. In your name. A love nest sounds great, but it’d be yours. What do you think? Too much?” Than leans forward, taking his hand and squeezing, his palms clammy.

“Definitely too much. But sweet and kind and considerate too. I don’t want you to spend this much money on me.”

“Money is one thing I don’t need to worry about. Are you saying no? It’s okay if you do.” Than gazes at him, his amber eyes like liquid honey in the low light of the car.

Zag swallows, realising in the moment that he would do nearly anything to make Than smile. “Doesn’t hurt to look, right?”

He’s amply rewarded, a relieved smile spreading over Than’s face. “Nope. C’mon, let’s go in.”

He follows Than out into the afternoon sunshine, accepting a small bunch of keys from Charon as he passes. Than follows him through the wooden front door and into a hallway, light spilling in through several lace curtain draped windows. There are a few pieces of rustic furniture in the space, painted in bright colours that complement the uneven cream walls.

The kitchen is compact, with wooden cabinet doors and a hanging rack bearing a few old copper pans, a tiny table for two against the wall in the corner. Zag walks through into the living room, already feeling curiously at home in the cosy space. A couch and an armchair dominate the room, facing an open fireplace, immediately painting a picture of cool winter evenings curled up in front of the flames.

“What do you think?” Than asks, reaching out to touch Zag’s elbow cautiously, his nerves clear in his voice.

“How many bedrooms?” Zag takes Than’s hand and tugs him towards a white painted door in the opposite corner of the room.

“Two. And two bathrooms. I thought you’d prefer something cosy,” Than replies nervously.

They walk down a terracotta painted hallway with two doors facing each other at the end. The first bedroom is small, the bed tucked away into an alcove, a pair of lace curtains sectioning it from the rest of the room, a narrow door leading to a shower room. The second bedroom is much more spacious, flooded with natural night from a pair of French doors leading outside. The bathroom is a good size, the shower area easily big enough for two.

“This one would be our bedroom, I guess?” Zag asks, shivering as Than steps up behind him, wrapping his arms around his waist.

“Yeah. Do you like it?” Than asks, kissing his temple hesitantly.

“I do,” Zag murmurs, feeling Than’s body instantly relax against his. “Let’s look at the outside space.”

They walk back through the terracotta hallway and through a wooden door into a courtyard garden. A table and four chairs sit on an elevated wooden deck, shaded by a canopy of wooden beams and trailing plants. Plants grow up trellises fixed to the high cream walls, a door leading out opposite the seating area. Zag walks over, trying the other keys until the lock clicks open, pulling the door inwards to reveal the golden sand a few paces away, the sea a short distance beyond.

He takes in the view for a moment before shutting and locking the door, sitting down at the table underneath the leafy canopy. Than takes a chair opposite him, reaching out to take his hand across the table.

“What does Charon think?” Zag asks, brushing his thumb over Than’s knuckles.

“He thinks it’s pretty good. It might look rustic and traditional, but the windows and doors are modern with good locks. The walls are high enough and smooth enough on the outside to keep the outdoor space secure. There’s an apartment for sale in the building across the road, too, so someone can be close by for security’s sake. Install a few cameras and a good alarm system, and he thinks it’s fine.” Than gazes at him expectantly.

Zag nods. The idea of Than buying them a beach house might be overwhelming, but now he’s seen it, he can see them here together. He can imagine Than cooking in the kitchen, sending Zag outside to fetch fresh herbs from one of the planters lining the garden. He can picture them lounging on the sofa in front of a crackling fire, or sitting at this table with a bottle of wine as the sun sets, listening to the waves.

“It’s gorgeous,” Zag says, lifting his hand to his lips and kissing his knuckles. “It’s definitely too much, but I can imagine us here.”

“So I should…?” Than raises his eyebrows.

“If you like it, and you’re comfortable spending the money, then buy it.” Than’s face breaks into a dazzling smile. “Wait, before you get excited, I want you to buy it in your name. I’ll pay you rent. Final offer.”

“Deal,” Than replies, walking around the table and hauling Zag up into his arms. “We can negotiate the rent later. It’ll be symbolic, not market price.”

“Let’s argue that one later,” Zag agrees, winding his arms around Than’s neck and kissing him. “You’re buying us a love nest. Wow.”

“Yep. A place of our own. It’s a vacation rental at the moment, so I can ask the broker to negotiate the furniture too, if you want?”

“Sounds good. It’s well furnished, I don’t think we need to change much.”

“Me neither,” Than beams at him, dipping to kiss him thoroughly. “Okay. Back to the hotel?”

“Sure.” Zag follows Than back into the house, locking doors behind him and returning the keys to Charon just outside. He raises his eyebrows, smiling as Zag gives him a thumbs up and thumping Than gently on the shoulder as he gets into the car.

They drive back to the hotel in a comfortable silence, hands loosely clasped on the leather seat between them. Zag yawns, the excitement of the day catching up to him. This morning he woke up hoping to speak to Than after he boarded the yacht. So far, they’ve been reunited, had some incredible sex, started what promises to be a series of discussions about their future, and visited a beach house Than’s buying for them. More has happened than he could possibly have expected or predicted, the sweetness of their reunion tempered by the uncertainty that lies ahead.

The suite is cool and still when they arrive back, their half eaten sandwiches long whisked away by the staff. Zag cracks open a bottle of water, sitting on the couch and unlocking his phone as Than calls his real estate broker. He checks the alert on Than’s name, breathing a sigh of relief when the same stories about his performance of Love Me Like You Do show up.

Than drops down beside him, stretching his arm over the back of the couch. “Okay. Broker’s going to call the agent for the beach house and the apartment now, see if we can get them. If the owners accept, it’ll be a cash purchase, so we should be able to wrap things up quickly.”

“Great,” Zag murmurs, shuffling to rest his head in Than’s lap, gazing up at his face. “I’m exhausted, today’s been… exciting.”

“Good exciting, or bad exciting?” Than asks, stroking his calloused fingers through Zag’s hair.

“Good exciting, mostly. I’m not sure how I feel about the going public thing yet.”

“It’s okay. Take your time. A lot changed today.”

“It really did. Thank you for coming back for me, Than.” Zag reaches up and strokes his jaw, his stubble prickling against his fingertips. “It feels like a weight off my chest, knowing you want me too.”

“I should have told you when I left. I’m sorry.” Than turns his head, kissing Zag’s fingers.

“You have nothing to apologise for. I could have said something too.” A flash of regret slices through him as he remembers that he’s the one who should be apologising. He kissed someone, just two nights ago. “Hey, Than, I need to tell you something.”

“Shoot.”

“I… You know I was at Evgenis and Angelina’s wedding a couple days ago?” He watches Than nod upside down. “I kissed someone at the reception. She flirted with me, I thought I should try to move on, we kissed.”

“Oh.” Than’s voice sounds strangled, enough that Zag rolls himself upright and crowds into his side. “You, um… you wanted to see her again?”

“No!” Zag wraps his arm around Than’s waist. “No. As soon as it happened I knew it was a mistake. I couldn’t stop comparing it to how it feels to kiss you. It was nothing.”

“Okay,” Than sighs, the lines between his eyebrows smoothing. “I was worried for a moment. Thanks for telling me.”

“You have nothing to be worried about,” Zag murmurs, nestling his head into Than’s shoulder. “You’re the only person I want.”

“I feel the same about you, babe.” Than turns his head, kissing his forehead. “Wanna listen to some new songs I’ve been working on recently?”

“Definitely,” Zag replies, gazing up at him with a smile, his heart full to brimming.

Chapter Text

They spend the rest of the afternoon on the couch, apart from the brief trip Zag takes to a local supermarket with Charon to stock up on water, soda and snacks.

Zag listens intently to the new songs Than plays for him, nodding enthusiastically when he asks if he likes what he hears, and blushing furiously when Than tells him he’s the inspiration behind most of them. They talk for hours, enjoying the freedom of being able to bask in each other’s company without distraction or guilt. They sprawl on the sofa, Zag’s back against Than’s chest, drinking bottles of cherry Loux soda and watching a movie.

The whole afternoon, Than feels like he does when he’s at his mountain place, wrapped in the softest cashmere blanket and watching the rain beat down outside. He feels safe with Zag. He feels at home with Zag. The cosy warmth of his company is addictive.

Charon joins them in the suite for a late dinner. Zag convinces them to try gouna, salted sun-baked mackerel grilled with herbs and lemon, served with an abundance of fresh vegetables drizzled with olive oil. They share a bottle of crisp white wine, Zag’s natural warmth drawing Charon into a conversation about track sports. Than learns that he used to sprint the hundred metres at high school, and runs for fun and exercise when he’s on dry land.

When Charon leaves, they lock the door and move to the bed, lying on their sides facing each other, curtains drawn and lights turned low.

“This is the longest we’ve spent together,” Than says, smiling at Zag shyly. “Still sure you want to be with me?”

“Of course,” Zag replies, reaching out to brush his hair behind his shoulder. “Don’t you believe me when I say I want you?”

“I believe you. I’m just…” Than glances down, pressing his lips together, the self loathing simmering like bile in his throat.

“Talk to me,” Zag murmurs, his hand stroking over Than’s bicep reassuringly.

“I just worry that the more you know me, the more likely it is you see something you don’t like. The more likely you change your mind about me.” He raises his eyes to meet Zag’s, almost afraid of what he might see, relieved to find nothing but warmth and care.

“Than, I don’t expect you to be perfect. There will be things you do that frustrate me, and things I do that frustrate you. My mother is always telling me that lo– relationships are about compromise, and choosing to be together through hard times. I want that with you.” Zag runs his hand down his arm, squeezing his fingers.

Than tries not to react to the near mention of love, his heart barely daring to hope that Zag has such depth of feeling for him.

“There’ll probably be times when you get stuck in your head and mope, like you did after I told you I’m bi,” Zag continues. “There will definitely be times when I do something impulsive and borderline stupid and you’ll get annoyed. You haven’t seen that side of me yet. But we’ll work it out, okay?”

“Okay.” Than acquiesces, reaching out to rest his hand on Zag’s waist. He understands Zag’s words on a logical level, but they don’t quite resonate in practice.

“This isn’t the last time we’re going to have this conversation, is it?” Zag smiles.

“Probably not. It takes me a long time to deal with emotions, Zag, and they have this annoying habit of creeping up on me again when I think they’re done. Side effect of keeping it all inside, my therapist tells me. I’m sorry.”

Zag cups his cheek, tilting his face up. “You don’t need to apologise.”

“Okay,” Than says automatically, relieved when Zag leans forward to kiss him. It’s a soft kiss, a reassuring kiss. It doesn’t sweep away Than’s fears entirely, but it helps.

“What do you want to do tomorrow?” Zag asks, rolling onto his back and tugging Than into his side.

He follows willingly, pillowing his head on Zag’s shoulder. “Got any ideas? I just wanna spend time with you.”

“There’s this cove I know. It’s tiny, has the smallest sandy beach and a crescent shaped bay. It’s pretty hard to get to, only the locals know about it. How about we get a picnic lunch and swim a little?”

“I’d love to. We can head out and ask Charon to keep an eye on anyone coming too close.”

“Perfect,” Zag tightens his arm around Than’s shoulders, kissing the top of his forehead. “How would you feel about meeting Mama tomorrow night?”

A jolt of nervous excitement flashes through him. He sits up, his heart speeding up as he looks down at his messy haired lover, relaxed on the bed. “You serious?”

“Yeah,” Zag smiles up at him, causing his heart to double its pace. “Whatever path we take, you’re part of my life now. Gotta meet her sometime.”

Than rolls on top of him, peppering his face with grateful kisses. “You’re amazing. Fuck, I’m so nervous.”

Zag wraps his arms around him, holding him close. “She’ll love you, I know it.”

“I hope so,” Than replies, kissing Zag’s cheek before pressing his face into his neck.

“She will. Trust me.” Zag’s hands stroke up and down his back comfortingly.

Than finds himself humming happily, burrowing deeper into Zag’s embrace like there’s no place more comfortable on the entire planet. He can’t resist tasting the warm skin against his lips, pressing lazy open mouthed kisses interspersed with tiny licks against Zag’s throat. He tastes warm and slightly salty, his scent layered with something citrusy over the natural musky tang of his skin.

Zag's fingers tighten into his t-shirt as Than continues to lavish attention on his neck. “Mmm. Just double checking, are you trying to drive me crazy with desire?”

“Not really,” Than grins, nipping gently at Zag’s neck in between kisses and licks.

“Well, you are.” Zag turns his head, encouraging Than to move up his neck towards his ear.

“Want me to stop?” Than mumbles into his ear.

“Briefly, to take all your clothes off, yes,” Zag giggles, the sound abruptly turning into a moan as Than bites his earlobe.

Than kisses his way along the line of his jaw and captures his lips in a deep, hungry kiss, shivering at the way Zag’s nails dig into his skin. He rolls off him, sitting up and pulling his t-shirt over his head before jumping off the bed, his jeans and underwear pooling at his feet a moment later. Zag’s t-shirt flies towards his face, and he catches it mid-air, dropping it to the floor and leaning over to tug Zag’s cutoffs over his hips.

His half hard cock fills out as Than gazes at it, licking his lips absentmindedly. Zag rolls onto his knees, pulling Than towards him and kissing him, gasping as they brush together. The look in his mismatched eyes sends sparks directly to Than’s cock, not just because his pupils are already dilated with hunger, but because he looks at Than like he’s precious, like he’s worthy.

Than bites his lip, amazed that such a wonderful man would look at him like that. He wants to give Zag everything.

“You know you said we could work up to it…” Than whispers hesitantly, palming Zag’s plump ass and drawing their hips closer together. “What did you mean, exactly?”

“My fingers, first,” Zag replies, kissing him gently. “Or my tongue. Whichever you feel more comfortable with, if you want to try.”

Than shivers as he imagines Zag’s tongue in him. The idea is equal parts arousing and intimidating. “Fingers first.”

“Okay,” Zag breathes, sliding his hand over the curve of Than’s ass and squeezing possessively.

Than lets Zag tug him back onto the bed. He pushes him onto his back, brushing his hair out of the way and leaning over him, kissing him slowly, both palms gently cupping his face. As thrilling as the kisses are, he can’t help but feel nervous, completely unused to feeling out of his element in bed.

“What’s wrong?” Zag murmurs, dragging his thumb gently along his cheekbone.

“Nervous,” Than chokes out, locking his arms around Zag’s waist.

“We don’t have to do anything,” Zag presses a slow kiss against his lips, his mouth damp and warm. “Or I can suck you off. I’d like that just as much.”

“I want to, I’m just… nervous.” Than bends his leg, letting his knee fall to the side. Trepidation simmers in his stomach, fighting his desire. He won’t let it win.

Zag slides his hand deliberately down his body until he’s stroking his inner thigh. “Sure?”

“Yeah,” Than whispers, pulling him in and kissing him deeply.

Zag breaks the kiss, leaning across him to open the nightstand drawer to find the lube. Than shivers as Zag drizzles a thin stream over his cock, letting it trickle down over his balls. He looks up, an eyebrow raised, lips opening to ask what he’s doing, but Zag silences him with a kiss, his tongue sliding into his mouth. A beat later, Zag’s fingers grip his cock, sliding up and down slowly, the feeling intensified by the smooth glide of the lube.

“Oh, Zag,” Than mumbles, breaking the kiss to stare into his eyes. Zag nearly purrs with satisfaction and shifts to get a better grip, his thumb swirling over the slit with every upwards stroke.

Than is panting when he loosens his hand, walking his fingertips deliberately down his length, squeezing his balls just before a single slick fingertip brushes over his entrance. Than gasps, his core tightening in a mixture of fear and pleasure, watching as Zag squeezes a little more lube onto his fingers before he begins circling the tight muscle again. He kisses his way down Than’s neck, mouthing at his collarbone before lazily making his way over the swell of Than’s pectoral muscle to lick delicately at his nipple.

"Relax," he mumbles. "Tell me how it feels."

"Good," Than gasps, torn between wanting to tell Zag to push his finger inside already and wanting to acknowledge the creeping feeling of shame settling over his shoulders.

Zag works his way back up to Than's lips. He pauses, moving his finger away. "Talk to me. Something's bothering you."

"No, it's fine, I just…" Than lets his eyes open, finding Zag's face hovering close. He stretches up and presses a gentle kiss on his lips. "I keep thinking I shouldn't be doing this. Like it's shameful. I don't know why. I don't want to feel like this."

"It's okay, Than. Why do you feel like it's shameful?"

"I don't know. Because I… I'm meant to be this big, muscular, dominant bad boy. That image doesn't work with taking a dick up my ass." Than cringes, hating the words pouring unchecked from his mouth. "Fuck, I'm a terrible person."

"You really aren't. You've spent the last ten years playing a stereotype of masculinity, it's understandable that something that conflicts with that would make you feel things. It's not uncommon, you know. Bottom shame is a thing." Zag's eyes are soft and full of understanding.

"It is?"

"Yeah. Toxic masculinity happens everywhere, gay and bi men aren't immune. Do you think I'm less of a man because I bottom with you?"

"No! Of course not. But…" Than shrugs.

"But it's different for you. I get it. But think about that, okay? You're holding yourself to a different ideal than you're holding me to. Is it really your ideal, or is it someone else's?" Zag kisses him softly, giving him a moment to think. "I'm not saying this because I want to make you okay with it, Than. I'd love to be inside you, yeah, but if that's not a thing for you, it’s okay. I just want you to feel good about yourself and your choices."

Than lies quietly for a minute, thinking about what Zag said as he strokes his shoulder gently. It isn’t his ideal. It's a distorted societal ideal, a sanitised ideal designed to maximise how he appeals to the public, and it comes from the industry, not from him. Zag is a better man than he'll ever be, so self aware and understanding. A good part of Than's admiration for him comes from how comfortable he is with himself. Maybe one day he’ll have that for himself. Even a little bit of it would be wonderful.

"You're right, it's not my ideal. It's what I think the public expects," Than murmurs, letting his gaze meet Zag’s. "I shouldn't let that get in the way of what I want. Of who I want."

"I'd rather you didn't, for your own happiness. These things run deep, though. It's okay if it takes time to work through it," Zag says quietly, his fingers stroking gently over Than's shoulder. “There’s no rush, Than.”

"Have I ruined the mood?" He’s overwhelmed by a wave of gratitude for Zag, so patient and so willing to put his own needs second to make sure Than is okay.

"Not at all," Zag smiles, kissing him softly. "What do you want?"

"I want you to keep touching me," Than says, lifting his hand to cup Zag's face, brushing his thumb over his lips.

"You sure? You saying that because you want to, and not because you feel pressured?" Zag asks, his eyes fixed on Than's as if he’s trying to see directly into his soul.

"I'm sure." Than draws him into a deep kiss, tilting his head and slipping his tongue into Zag's mouth.

Zag kisses him back, humming with pleasure as their tongues slide together. His palm skates gently over Than’s hip and across his thigh, pausing for a moment before his finger brushes his entrance again. Than lets himself sink into the sensation, light enough to make him want more, sending tiny sparks through his groin. Zag breaks the kiss, leaning over him to drizzle a little more lube over his finger as it circles again and again, pausing for a moment before the tip pushes gently inside.

Than tenses, his heart pounding as Zag kisses him again.

“We can always stop,” he murmurs. He withdraws his finger, waiting for Than to relax before he pushes the tip back inside in a slow, deliberate rhythm. “Okay?”

“Yeah,” Than whispers, nearly breathless, arousal starting to drown out the fear. “Feels… good.”

“You want more?” Zag brushes his lips slowly across Than’s, letting him absorb the feelings before he answers.

“Yeah.” Than reaches across, caressing Zag’s bicep, feeling the muscle move back and forward as Zag pushes deeper. The sensation is strange, pleasurable enough but entirely alien, fullness where he doesn’t expect it. He’s surprised by how it feels on an emotional level; taking part of Zag inside himself like this feels like the most wonderful kind of intimacy, a hundred times more intimate than taking him into his mouth. Maybe it’s the taboo of it, maybe it’s the care Zag is showing him.

“Good?” Zag asks, his finger pushing deeper inside Than’s body, thrusting slowly in and out. “I can put another one in you, if you want.”

“Yeah,” Than pants, his hips moving to meet Zag’s thrusts. “What about you?”

“I’m enjoying myself plenty, trust me,” Zag chuckles, kissing him softly. “Let me give you this, Than.”

Than’s eyes clench shut, his moans deepening as Zag pushes two fingers gently into him. “Fuck, Zag, feels so good.”

They lapse into silence, the sound of his blood pounding in his ears almost matching the rhythm of Zag’s fingers thrusting inside him.

“I’m just gonna curve my fingers, okay?” Zag whispers. Than can feel his gaze on his face, wrenching his eyes open to meet him. His pupils are wide, watching Than’s face closely, a flush painted over his cheeks. “Okay?”

Than nods, hips undulating as Zag’s fingers fuck him steadily. Now that he’s let go of the fear, it feels amazing, still foreign and strange, but overall something he’ll be very happy to do again. He imagines Zag’s cock pushing into him, thicker and longer than his fingers, his dick pulsing at the thought. A second later he gasps, a new feeling drawing everything tight as Zag presumably finds his prostate. It’s almost too much, his brows pulling together as he tries to process it.

“Too much? It’s okay. I’ll just...” Zag leans over him, taking the head of Than’s cock into his mouth, his tongue lapping at the slit and then dipping to tease his piercing.

Than vaguely hears himself cry out. It feels so good, every scrap of fear and shame swept away by the pleasure Zag gifts to him. Zag works his cock into his throat, saliva and precome gleaming on his lips as he swallows around him. Pleasure folds and tightens low in his belly, his toes curling as his fingers clutch at the sheets. “Zag. I’m… oh fuck, Zag, please, please…”

Zag moans appreciatively, moving his fingers faster, the tips brushing over that spot with every other thrust. Pleasure builds and sharpens, Than’s muscles tensing as he hurtles towards an incredible orgasm. He falls over the edge with a cry as brightness explodes behind his eyelids, feeling himself clench down on Zag’s fingers. He briefly wonders if he’s always felt his orgasms there but just never noticed, the thought dissipating quickly as the pleasure rips through his body hot and sharp.

Zag gently tugs his fingers free, crawling upwards to kiss him, his cock burning hot against Than’s thigh. “Good?”

“So good,” Than pants, tasting himself in Zag’s mouth. “Just before I came I was thinking about how your cock would feel in me. I want it, Zag.”

He laughs huskily, kissing his nose. “You can have it, Than. Now?”

Than’s breath catches in his chest. He stalls, stroking a hand down Zag’s body, trailing his fingers over the wet tip of his cock. “We could…”

Zag smiles at him, supportive even when most of the blood in his body seems to have relocated itself to his cock. “Some other time. No pressure, okay?”

“Thank you,” Than murmurs, relieved. “Can I… what do you want? I want to make you feel good too.”

“You can keep stroking me like that,” Zag moans, his hips twitching forward as Than’s fingers tighten around him. “Or… Than, would you let me fuck your thighs? I’ve had a thing for your legs since forever…”

“Have you?” Than murmurs, squeezing Zag’s dick.

“Yeah. There was that morning on the yacht, you were wearing a Metallica t-shirt and swim shorts. I couldn’t stop looking at you.”

A flicker of arousal snakes its way through Than’s exhausted body. “I’ve never…”

Zag huffs out a laugh that turns immediately into a moan. “I figured.”

Than lets himself giggle a little, the sound breathier than he expects. “I want you to have all my firsts, Zag. How do we…?”

“Roll onto your stomach. Hey, kiss me before you do.” Zag cradles Than’s face with his clean hand, claiming his kiss with eager lips.

Than turns over, his lips tingling and sensitive. “Like this?”

“Perfect,” Zag whispers, stroking his hand over the curve of Than’s ass with what feels like reverence. “Press your thighs together, asteri mou.”

Than does as he’s told, listening to the slick sounds of Zag spreading lube over his cock. He imagines lying like this knowing Zag is about to fuck him, wonders whether the anticipation will be any sweeter for it.

“God, your body is so beautiful. I want you so much.” Zag’s hands grasp his hips, pulling them upwards as he slides his cock slowly between Than’s thighs, a hiss escaping his mouth. “You feel so good.”

Zag’s slick cock pushes slowly against Than’s sac, his spent cock twitching with interest even though he knows he won’t be ready to go again quite this soon. Zag moans, dipping to press a few kisses over the curve of Than’s shoulders, reaching forwards to entwine their fingers. The position reminds Than of their second time, in Zag’s friend's apartment on Mykonos. He remembers how it felt to overwhelm Zag with his cock and his mouth, fucking him slowly and whispering in his ear until he came, dragging Than with him.

“Remember when you fucked me like this?” Zag asks, his voice hoarse in Than’s ear.

“I was just thinking about it.” Than turns his head as best he can to steal a kiss. “I love how you feel on top of me right now. And your cock…”

“My cock?” Zag nibbles delicately at Than’s earlobe as he increases his pace, his fingers tightening around Than’s.

“Fuck, I can’t get enough of it,” Than whispers. “I love how you feel in my mouth. I love how this feels.”

“You like my cock, then?” Zag laughs softly, breaking off into a whimpering moan as Than tightens his thighs.

“I love your cock.” A thrill tingles through Than as Zag fucks his thighs harder, his breath increasingly laboured in his ear. “I want you to come for me, Zag.”

“I’m gonna,” Zag gasps, his skin burning hot against Than’s. “Here, or pull away?”

“Don’t you dare pull away,” Than growls, focusing on the feeling of Zag’s dripping cock dragging between his thighs. “Give it to me.”

Zag clutches at his hip, groping him possessively as his movements turn desperate, the slap of skin on skin drowning out everything else.

“Give it to me, babe.” Than listens to Zag’s gulping breaths, knowing he’s close. He comes with a strangled cry, shuddering against Than’s body as his spurting cock slickens Than’s thighs with heat. He slumps, draping himself over Than’s back as the aftershocks of his orgasm die away.

“So good,” Zag mumbles, his lips blurring against Than’s shoulder blade. “You okay? Feel good?”

“Yeah,” Than replies, appreciative of how considerate Zag is of his feelings, even in the afterglow of orgasm. “Yeah. Thank you, Zag. I’m so incredibly lucky to have such a supportive, caring partner.” He feels Zag’s lips curve into a sunny smile. “What?”

“I just really like hearing you call me your partner,” he replies, his voice full of affection. “Come on, let’s get cleaned up and ready for bed. I can’t wait to fall asleep in your arms.”

“Me neither, babe. Me neither.”

Chapter Text

The next morning, Zag wakes up on his back on his side of the bed. Than lies on his side next to him, a teasing grin on his lips.

"Mmm, morning," he yawns, stretching his arms over his head. "You're smiling. Why?"

"You snore when you sleep on your back. It's adorable. You make these little snuffling sounds, like a cute little pig."

Zag grabs one of the pillows from behind his head and hits Than with it, more gently than he deserves. "I do not snore like a pig."

"You do," Than giggles, throwing the pillow to the floor. "You're the cutest little pig." He starts laughing in earnest, burying his face against Zag's neck and making little snuffling pig sounds between each chuckle.

"Thanatos." Zag tries to keep his expression stern, but Than's snorts and giggles are infectious. Before he knows it, he's laughing too, resorting to dirty tactics and tickling Than's sides. To his delight, Than laughs harder, dropping the snuffling entirely.

They roll around on the bed, trying to wrestle each other into submission, fingers fluttering over any potentially ticklish area. Zag is delighted to find that the backs of Than's knees are a weak spot, his laughter turning almost hysterical when Zag tickles him there.

"Okay, you win, stop!" Than gasps, trying to push Zag away.

"Do I snore, Thanatos?" Zag grins, giving the backs of his knees one last tickle.

"No!" Than yelps. "You absolutely don't snore like an adorable little pig, you don't, you don’t!"

Zag lets him go, watching him gulp down air as his giggles slowly calm down. "You're so cute."

Than pulls him back for a kiss. "You’re cute. Sleep well?"

"Yeah, this bed is really comfy. And my back was warm all night. Did you sleep well?" He brushes another kiss over Than's lips, snuggling into his arms.

"Yeah. I missed sleeping next to you. Weird given we only did it twice on the yacht, but still. So, picnic and swimming today?"

"Well, I realised, just as I was falling asleep… I don't have any swimwear with me. And I actually only have one set of clean clothes. So I think I need to get some stuff from my mother's place sooner rather than later. Okay if I call her and ask if we can go there for lunch?" Zag tucks a strand of hair behind Than's ear, hoping he says yes. He really wants to introduce Than to Mama, even though he's nervous to see if they get on.

"Yeah. I hope she likes me. I haven't met someone's parents since I picked my girlfriend up for prom at high school." Than frowns, his hands smoothing nervously over Zag's back.

"She will. You're the first person I'm taking home to meet her, you know."

"Oh. Wow, so much pressure." Than throws him a half smile.

"It'll be fine. I'll call her, see if we can head over around one?" Than nods, his face still uneasy. Zag leans across, giving him a smacking kiss on the cheek to distract him. "Okay. Should I order breakfast?"

"Charon will do it, we'll eat together if it’s okay with you. I'll text him while you call your mom. What do you want?"

"Poached eggs and toast? Thanks. I'll just call her now." Zag sits up, grabbing his phone and sliding off the bed.

He walks naked across the room and sits on the couch, feeling Than's eyes follow him. He takes a deep breath, surprisingly nervous as he brings his phone to his ear. "Kalimera, Mama."

"Kalimera, agori mou. How are you? How was the party?"

"I'm good. The party… long story. Listen, can I come over for lunch and to get some clothes? I can tell you everything then."

"Of course. I was going to make souvlaki for you tonight, maybe you'd prefer it for lunch?"

"That would be amazing. I'm not going to be staying, anyway."

"Oh?"

"I'll explain when I see you. Listen… can I bring someone with me?" Zag bites his lip, nerves thrilling in his stomach.

"Who?"

Zag smiles, noting the restrained curiosity in her tone. "The guy I told you about. He came back, and we're trying to figure things out. I want you to meet him." No response. Zag bites his lip again, wondering what she's thinking. "Mama?"

"You could have given me more time to tidy the house, Zagreus. Of course, please bring him. What time will the two of you be here?"

"He's already been there, remember? I'm bringing him to meet you, not the house. Around one, if that's alright?"

"Of course. Looking forward to meeting this man of yours, Zagreus."

"See you later, Mama. Love you!" Zag ends the call, a smile playing on his lips.

Than walks over, offering him a hand and pulling him up into a hug when he accepts it. "Everything okay?"

"Yeah. She's gonna make souvlaki. I can't wait for you to meet her," Zag grins. Than gazes down at him, his hands warm on the bare skin of Zag's waist. "Don't worry, she'll love you." Like I do, he wants to add, even though he knows it's too soon.

"Better get dressed," Than says, his amber eyes tight at the corners. "Charon will be here with breakfast soon."

"Stop worrying," Zag says, stretching up to kiss him. "Do I have time for a shower? God, I wish I could just jump in the pool."

"Shower together after breakfast?" Than suggests. "I'm thinking we should move to a private villa somewhere. Somewhere with high walls and a pool."

"Didn't you book this place for a week?"

"I'm worth enough to the hotel chain that they won't charge me if we shorten the reservation," Than says, grabbing his phone and sending a message. "I asked one of my assistants to find us somewhere, check in tomorrow. They'll send us some options to choose from later on. Okay?"

"Sure. How many assistants do you have?"

"Three. Well, it's three specific folks at a concierge agency. The company serves a lot of really rich and famous people. They look after other people too."

"Huh," Zag says, amazed at how easy day to day life is when you have access to the kind of money Than has. His mind flits to the life he’d be caught up in, if they decide to go public rather than hide, still nebulous and uncertain. "Than, if we do end up going public, how would that even work?"

"Can we talk about it after breakfast?"

A soft knock sounds from across the room.

"Yeah, of course." Zag rushes to look through the peephole, spying Charon pushing a small trolley stacked with cloche covered plates.

Breakfast is delicious, Zag's poached eggs cooked with a perfect runny yolk. The three of them chat through plans for the day, Charon offering to drop them off for lunch and pick them up later, giving Than plenty of space to impress Zag's mother. When the plates are empty Charon leaves them, Zag insisting on pushing the trolley back to his room for collection. He lets himself back into the suite, dropping a kiss on the crown of Than's head and sitting beside him on the couch.

"My broker emailed me. We got the beach house and the apartment. It'll take a few weeks to settle."

"That's great news. We probably won't stay there together for a while, then?"

"Probably not. But let's see if we can do it sooner rather than later. I wanna stargaze with you in our garden so bad."

"Don't think I've forgotten about rent, Than. I'll do some research on the area," Zag grins as Than rolls his eyes. "So. Going public. Tell me what you're thinking?"

Than takes a sip of water, his shoulders immediately tensing up. "First, these are just my half assed ideas, okay? We'd work it out together. And we'd need to work with Meg, Hypnos and the label too."

"Okay," Zag murmurs, reaching out to take Than's hand.

"If we were gonna do it, we'd need to choose a way to make an announcement. Could be as simple as a press release, or we could go to dinner somewhere and hold hands, something like that. After that, we'd probably do a bunch of interviews, TV appearances, that kind of thing. You'd need to be in the US for a while." Than grimaces, his shoulders tightening with every sentence.

Zag’s stomach twists, half nerves and half alarm. "Than, I just need to ask… this idea is clearly stressing you out. Is that because the idea of going public makes you nervous, or because our relationship goes straight to very committed very fast, or both? Something else entirely?"

Than baulks. "Shit. I, um… The public bit scares me. I know it sounds crazy, Zag, but I'm not worried about committing to you. I want to commit to you. I want to make this work."

Zag beams at him for a moment before diving into his arms, his heart thrillingly light. "I feel the same, Than. I know it's early, but I…" He swallows, chickening out at the last minute. "I want to commit to you, too. Let's make it work."

Than hugs him close, tipping his face upwards and brushing the softest, most tender kiss over his lips. "And how would you feel about coming to the US with me for a while? You could stay with me. In your own room, if you wanted. Or in a hotel. Whatever you’re comfortable with."

"If I come to the US I wanna stay with you," Zag frowns. "But, um… I've never left Greece. I have a passport, in case clients want to go further afield on a charter, but I've never used it. And…" He looks down, his own shoulders growing tense. "And I don't have a lot of money saved up to cover travel."

Than turns him gently so they're face to face, legs tangled on the couch. "Zag. Don't worry about money."

"But I don't want you to have to pay for everything," Zag mutters.

"I know, and I really appreciate it. But money is one thing I really don't have to worry about. Let me share that with you." Than squeezes his fingers.

"But I… even the idea makes me feel like I'm taking advantage of you."

"If it was the other way around, how would you feel?"

"I honestly can't answer that. I don't know what it's like to have that much money. But I guess… I'd care more about being with you than the money?"

"Exactly," Than smiles. "Think about it, okay? All of it. We've got time to talk it over this week. No rush to make a decision."

"Unless someone sees us and makes the decision for us," Zag says sadly.

"Yeah. I know this is a lot, Zag. I'm a lot. You can change your mind about any of this, any time. Okay?" Then swallows hard, his Adam’s apple bobbing heavily.

"Hey. I'm not going to change my mind about us, alright?" Zag kisses him softly, trying to pour all his love and affection into the movements of his lips on Than's. "I won't change my mind about you."

Than kisses him back, his hand moving delicately to cup Zag's cheek.

They take a long, leisurely shower together, kissing under the spray until they're both hard. They keep kissing, moaning into each other's mouths as they jerk each other off, hands moving in short, tense movements in the scant space between their bodies. Zag bites gently at Than's trembling lower lip, his hand slick with Than's release as he comes.

They smile at each other in the afterglow, shifting focus to getting clean. Zag delights in running his hands over Than's body, focusing on the feel of his skin beneath his palms. He washes his lover with care and affection, his heart aching when Than gives him the same treatment in return.

Before Zag's even aware of how quickly the morning has passed, they hop into the rental car, Charon driving them over to the cottage. Than holds his hand tightly, his jaw clenching visibly when they pull up outside.

"Good luck," Charon rumbles. Than gives him a shaky nod in response.

Zag pauses by the front door, turning to Than and kissing him softly. "It'll be fine. She's lovely, I promise."

"I just want her to feel like I'm good enough for you," Than mutters, pushing Zag gently towards the door and resting his hand on the curve of Zag's hip. He shifts his weight on his feet, snatching his hand back and letting it hang by his side.

Zag knocks on the door, suppressing a smile. Nervous Thanatos is new to him, so adorable he wants to cuddle him until the frown disappears from his handsome face.

The door swings open. "Hi, Mama. This is Thanatos."

"Come in, come in," Persephone smiles, virtually dragging Zag over the threshold so she can focus on Than. "Welcome, Thanatos."

"Lovely to meet you, ma'am. Please call me Than," Than replies, following Persephone's gesturing hands and stepping into the living room.

"You can call me Persephone, Than. It's wonderful to meet you. Although I'm sure your face is familiar… have we met before?"

Zag smiles. "You probably saw his poster on my wall when I was younger, at least." Than pokes him subtly in the back, an embarrassed smirk on his face.

"Oh. That Thanatos." She hums pensively as she leads them through into the kitchen. "Can I offer you a drink?"

"Please, Persephone," Than murmurs, his nerves obvious in his voice.

"Has Zagreus made you a Greek coffee yet?"

"No, he hasn't. I'd love to try one."

She gestures at the kitchen table, gathering the necessary equipment from the painted cupboards. "Would you like one, Zagreus? Shame on you, not making him a proper coffee."

Zag takes a seat next to Than, squeezing his knee under the table. "I don’t even offer on the yacht any more, the guests just aren’t interested. I'd love one, thanks. Metrios for both of us, I reckon."

"Alright. I'll get lunch on while I'm here." She bustles around the kitchen, making coffee and souvlaki at once. "So Than, Zag didn't tell me much about you. Confidentiality is more important than telling your mother what's going on in your love life, apparently. He did say he didn't think you would see each other again. What brought you back to Paros?"

Zag groans loudly, objecting childishly to the very direct question. His mother shushes him, putting a chopping board and some vegetables down before him, telling him to make himself useful.

"I came back for Zag. After the yacht, I didn't think we could find a way to make things work, but I missed him. So here I am." Than shifts his leg, leaning his calf muscle against Zag's.

"How long are you staying?"

"I paused work for a week. Depends on what we decide to do."

"What you decide to do?" She glances across the kitchen, first at Zag, then at Than.

"Yeah, remember I told you that there's a lot at stake for him because of his career? We either keep our relationship a secret and risk someone outing him, or we go public and risk his career," Zag explains, slicing a red onion into thin crescents.

"If we get caught, or if we go public, Zag ends up in the public eye," Than adds. "So we have a lot to talk about."

"Sounds just as complicated as Zag said." She brings two cups of coffee over, waving away their thanks. "Greek coffee is quite strong. I hope you like it."

"Thank you. I'm sure I'll like it. Your spanakopita is the best thing I've ever tasted, by the way. You're a great cook." Than offers her a small smile, the tension on his face easing as time goes on.

"Oh, thank you. I can give you the recipe, if you like. Do you cook?"

"He's a great cook," Zag interjects.

"I've only made you one thing," Than grins. "I enjoy cooking, when I have time. I try to make time for it when I'm not travelling."

"Where’s home, Thanatos?"

"I'm on the road a lot, usually. I'm working on a new album at the moment, so I'll be at my place in New York for the next few months," Than replies.

Zag looks over at Than as he takes a sip of coffee, an appreciative hum in his chest as he proclaims it delicious, effusively offering her his thanks. A wave of affection washes over him, so grateful for how hard Than's trying despite his nerves. Zag leans across, kissing him quickly on the cheek before he carries the sliced vegetables over to the counter.

He helps his mother get the food ready, arranging the vegetables on a plate and cutting some pitta breads while she transfers the grilled meat to a platter. Than offers to help several times, both of them telling him that guests shouldn't need to work for their lunch.

They sit down together, digging into the food laid out in the middle of the table. Than asks about the garden, and before long he's agreed to help prune some of the taller trees that neither Zag nor his mother can reach from the top of their ladder.

When he excuses himself to visit the bathroom, they clear the plates.

"He seems like a good man," she says, filling the sink with water.

"He really is. I'm going to stay with him for the rest of the week, okay?"

"You’re an adult, you don't need to ask. Do I need to give you a safe sex lecture?" Perspehone grins, seemingly enjoying watching Zag squirm.

"No, definitely not. Nothing to worry about, Mama." Zag rolls his eyes. "Listen, what do you think about the going public thing? I'm worried about it, but I don’t think I can keep our relationship hidden.”

"You love him already, don't you?" she asks, smiling when Zag shushes her, throwing a worried look in the direction of the bathroom. "You already know what you’re going to do, agori mou. You've never been cautious. When you care about something, you throw yourself in with your full heart. I can't imagine you doing anything less for this man."

Than returns before Zag has a chance to respond, taking the dish towel from Zag and drying every item meticulously, passing them to Zag to put away.

She's right, Zag realises as he puts the clean glasses back into the cupboard. He's already made his choice.

Chapter Text

The longer Than spends with Persephone, the more he likes her, the more comfortable he feels in her company. She's a straightforward person, he finds, quick to share an opinion and very direct when she does. She talks to him warmly and openly, throwing him and Zag tiny smiles when they touch each other casually. Those smiles make Than realise just how often they do touch each other, the realisation bringing a tingling warmth to his chest.

After lunch he helps in the garden, climbing the ladder that Zag holds for him and trimming the highest branches of a tall shrub. When he climbs down, Persephone offers to open a bottle of wine if they don’t have plans for the rest of the afternoon. Zag looks to him to answer, and he's relaxed enough in the sun drenched garden to accept.

Zag ducks inside, returning with a familiar red blanket, winking at Than as he spreads it out over the grass. "No napping this time, okay, asteri mou?" He sits down, patting the space beside him.

Than drops to sit cross legged on the blanket, leaning across to drop a kiss into his messy hair. "No napping, I promise. I meant to ask last night, what does asteri mou mean?”

“My star. Is it okay? I love it when you call me babe, I want a pet name for you, too.”

“Course it is,” Than smiles, warmth filling his chest. Zag’s choice of pet names is layered with meaning, from Than’s rockstar status to the time they’ve spent gazing at the stars together. “My assistant sent through a few villa options. You wanna choose?"

"Show me," Zag says, resting his head comfortably on Than's shoulder and snaking an arm around his waist.

Than holds his phone between them, flipping through the options, all of which have a private pool and high perimeter walls.

"Which one would you choose?" Zag asks, his body slouching comfortably against Than’s.

"Probably the one with the gym. I missed a few workouts these past few days."

"Hmm, can I watch you work out?" Zag grins, tilting his head to kiss Than on the cheek. "If the answer is yes, let's go with that one. The master bedroom is super romantic, too. Always wanted to sleep in a four poster bed."

"I don't know why you'd want to watch me in the gym, my routine is pretty boring." Zag rolls his eyes, nuzzling into Than's neck. "Rolling around with you on a four poster bed sounds perfect. I'll ask them to book that one, we'll head over there tomorrow morning. They can stock the fridge too, save you and Charon going shopping. Let me know if there's anything you want?"

"Something to barbecue maybe, since it has a nice terrace? Veggies and feta and bread, of course. And maybe some ice cream?"

"Sure. Any particular kind?"

"Whatever," Zag smirks. "I wanna lick it off your body, so the flavour doesn't matter too much."

"Zagreus," Than growls, smiling hastily at Persephone as she approaches with a chilled bottle of wine and three glasses.

Zag laughs, jumping up to help his mother as Than emails his assistant back to confirm their choice of villa. "Sorry Persephone, I just need to send this email."

"That's alright," she replies, twisting the cap off the wine bottle and pouring three generous glasses. "I imagine you have a lot of work you're missing out on because of this one."

"He's worth it," Than says distractedly, sending the message and putting his phone back in his pocket. He accepts a glass of wine, murmuring his thanks as Zag cuddles back into his side.

Persephone beams at them both. "You make a lovely couple."

"Thank you," Than grins, wrapping his arm tightly around Zag's shoulders. "So, Persephone, what was he like as a child?"

She scrambles to her feet again. "Let me get the photo albums."

Zag groans, hiding his face in Than's hair.

"You'll get your turn with my mom, don't worry,” Than whispers, feeling Zag smile at the thought.

Persephone returns with a set of leather bound volumes, a beaming smile on her face. She sits down next to Than, opening the first book on the blanket in front of them.

"He was such an adorable child," she begins, her voice already soft with nostalgia. "Always with the messy hair. Perhaps I should have shorn it off years ago." She points at a photo of a chubby limbed Zagreus on the beach, a miniature shovel clutched in his hand. "He was too small to dig, but he tried."

Than cuddles Zag closer, a smile building on his face.

"Do you remember this, Zag?" Persephone points to a photo of him covered in soap bubbles sitting in a shallow tub, a bath toy in the shape of a red dog held up to the camera. "You loved that toy so much. We adopted Cerby because he looked just like it, remember?"

"I remember how sad I was when the rubber finally split. Lucky we already had Cerby by then, I think I cried just a little less," Zag replies. "Did you have to show him a photo of me naked in the bath?"

"Of course, agori mou," she says serenely, flipping the page. "First day of school, with his little backpack. I was so proud." She turns the page again.

"You played soccer, Zag?" Than asks, eyes skimming over the line of players until he spies a familiar shock of dark hair.

"Yeah, I wanted to be a professional. Wasn't good enough," Zag shrugs.

"You were brilliant," Perspehone insists, turning the page again.

They spend a pleasant afternoon in the garden, working their way through the photo albums and drinking wine. Perspehone asks Than about his career, impressed by his success and immediately empathetic about the pressures of the public eye.

Zag excuses himself to pack some clothes, taking Than's hand and dragging him upstairs into his bedroom.

"Leave the door open, Zagreus," Persephone yells up the stairs after them.

Zag rolls his eyes. "I told her I'm staying with you for the rest of your trip, why does she think we'd do anything here ?"

"Maybe she noticed the wrinkled sheets when you brought me here last time?" Than giggles, watching Zag stuff a bag with clothes and toiletries.

It's late afternoon by the time Than texts Charon to come collect them. As soon as Persephone learns that Than's brother is in Paros she insists he come in for a drink too, pouring him a glass of pomegranate lemonade and asking him questions about what being head of security is like.

Eventually they shuffle towards the front door, lining up to say their goodbyes. Persephone embraces each of them warmly, chattering to Zag in Greek and whispering in Than's ear.

Zag directs Charon to a hole in the wall gyros place to pick up dinner. As they drive, Than leans in, pecking his boyfriend gently on the cheek.

"She's lovely, Zag. You were right, I had nothing to worry about," he murmurs. "What did she say to you as we were leaving?"

Zag takes his hand, bringing it to his lips and kissing each knuckle. "She said I should keep you. I told her I agreed. What did she say to you?"

"She told me to take good care of her darling boy."

"You're already making good on that," Zag grins. "Hey, there's a lookout point near to the gyros place, it should be empty at this time of day. Want to eat up there?"

Than looks to Charon, shrugging his shoulders.

"We can check it out," Charon says, glancing at them in the rear view mirror with a slight smile.

They pull up outside the gyros place, Zag hopping out to order for the three of them. He returns with a weighty paper bag, the rich scent of spiced meat making Than's mouth water immediately. They drive up to the lookout point, finding it both empty and accessible only via the road behind them, a low risk setup for a quick al fresco dinner. They sit down on a long wooden bench set close to the railings, Parikia and the ocean spread out before them.

Than bites into his folded flatbread, taking care not to let any sauce drop onto his t-shirt.

"What do you think?" Zag mumbles, already swallowing his first hastily chewed mouthful.

"Delicious," Charon grunts, taking another bite.

"Yeah, really good," Than replies, licking a spot of tzatziki from his thumb. "The ones we had in Santorini were heavier on the garlic. I think I prefer this."

They finish their meal looking out over the sea, watching the light dance in the cresting waves. The sunlight turns honeyed and golden, washing over Zag's skin until he glows, a classical statue cast in bronze. They toast their meal with bottles of local soda, tossing the grease streaked paper before returning to the car.

"Thanks for driving us, Charon," Than says as they pull up outside the hotel, pounding the back of his brother's shoulder warmly.

"Anytime," Charon rumbles in response.

They say their goodbyes in the hallway outside Than and Zag's room, Charon waiting for them to step inside before he walks off down the hallway.

"Wow, I didn’t think we'd spend the whole day at my mother's place." Zag dumps his backpack by the bed and toes his sneakers off, making himself at home.

"I didn’t think we'd be half drunk by the time the sun went down," Than chuckles, grabbing for Zag's elbow as he wobbles, trying to remove his socks.

"Yeah, me neither. Not complaining though. I had a great afternoon."

"Me too. What do you want to do for the rest of the evening? Other than sex," Than grins, reading the glimmer in Zag's eyes.

"Definitely sex. I want to talk first, though." Zag takes his hand and leads him to the couch. "Nothing bad, I promise."

"Okay," Than replies warily, holding his hand tightly as he folds his legs under him.

"Look, I was thinking," Zag begins. "And I talked to Mama a bit too."

Than's stomach starts to churn, his mind manufacturing a thousand reasons why Zag is about to leave him. Maybe he's not good enough in bed, or maybe the baggage he comes with is just too heavy, or maybe spending the afternoon together at Persephone's place just reinforced how out of place Than is in Zag's life.

"Hey, you listening to me?" Zag frowns, tapping his knee with his free hand.

"Um, yeah, sorry," he mumbles, his cheeks heating with embarrassment. "Go on."

Zag gives him a look before opening his mouth again. "I want to be with you properly. Kiss you in public, go out for dinner, meet all your friends and have you meet mine. I don't want to hide our relationship. If the cost of that is going public… let's do it. I'm in if you are."

A shiver of surprised delight fizzes through Than’s chest, fading quickly as the weight of everything Zag will sacrifice settles over his shoulders. He's scared for himself, of course, but he's so much more fearful of what going public will mean for Zag. He swallows heavily, unable to resist asking just once more. "Are you sure, Zag? Are you completely sure? Once we do this, there's no going back. Even if we break up some day, the press will probably still follow you around."

Zag leans over, curving his palm over the back of Than's neck and pulling his head forward until their foreheads touch. "I'm sure. Are you asking because you're worried about me, or are you worried about us too?"

Than sighs, amazed that Zag can read him so well already. "I… I want to be worthy of what you're giving up for me. I'm scared I'm not." His voice sounds small and afraid even to his own ears. He hates feeling weak like this, demanding validation from a man who has given him no reason to doubt him.

"I honestly don't know how you come across so confident in public, Thanatos," Zag says softly, his hand tightening possessively on the back of Than's neck. "You really don't deserve to feel so insecure. Can I be really honest with you?"

"Please. I always want you to be honest with me," Than murmurs, moving his hands to Zag's waist.

"I'm falling for you, Than," he breathes, his eyes earnest and intimate as he bares his heart with such sweet honesty that Than feels blessed just to hear him. "I had a glimpse of what life feels like without you. I can't go back. We can't go back. You're part of my life now, and I'll fight for you, because I…"

Than gives him a moment, but it becomes clear he's overwhelmed, the words sticking in his throat. He leans forward, pressing a soft kiss against his perfect lips. "You don't have to say it. We have time. Just know I feel the same, and I'll fight for you, too. Fuck, Zag, what did I do to deserve you?"

Zag rubs his nose gently against Than's. "You're you. That's all. You're just… you."

The kiss they share is the sweetest, most heartfelt thing Than has ever experienced. It's almost painful, the ache in his chest, the feeling of Zag burrowing inside every fibre of his heart. Than has written hundreds of love songs in his career, but none come even close to describing everything he feels in this moment, Zag's lips moving so perfectly, so tenderly, so lovingly against his.

"Thank you," Than whispers.

Zag smiles at him, his fingers stroking gently through Than's hair. "So what's next?"

"Tomorrow afternoon we need to talk to Hypnos and Meg, come up with a plan. Then we need to sell it to the label. They don't have to like it, but it'll make everything so much easier if they're generally on board. I should probably go back to New York in a couple days."

"It almost doesn't seem worth it to move to the villa, does it?" Zag says, sitting back against the arm of the sofa.

"It's fine. Let's say three more nights, including tonight, and then I go back? You can stay in the villa if you want. I don't think the beach place will be ours by then." Than tries to ignore the pang in his chest at the idea of leaving Zag again, reminding himself that it's not only temporary, but also necessary for them to be together for real.

"Three more nights sounds great. I'll head back to my mother's after that. Gotta figure out what to do about work. Anything you want to do while you're here?"

"Tomorrow, swim with you in the pool. Naked, if you like. Talk to Hypnos and Meg.” A thought strikes him, inciting a swarm of butterflies into action in his stomach. “Are Angelina and Evgenis back from their honeymoon?"

"They arrive back tonight." Zag raises a questioning eyebrow.

"We could invite them to the villa for a meal? I'd like to meet them. If you're okay with that," Than says tentatively, unsure if he's overstepping.

Zag's cheeks lift into a dazzling smile. "I'd love to. I think they'd be upset if they found out about us in the media, but I wasn't sure how you'd feel about telling them. The risk, you know."

"If you trust them, then I trust them," Than shrugs, hoping Zag’s friends are as solid as they seem. "Wanna ask them if they're free for dinner tomorrow night? Miltos too, of course. We can fire up the grill. I'll text you the villa's address. And I better text Hypnos and Meg, see what time they're free."

Zag nods, pulling his phone out of his pocket. Than follows suit, forwarding Zag the details of the villa and opening the group chat with Hypnos, Meg and Charon.

Thanatos
You all around for a call tomorrow?

Megaera
Yeah, can be
What's going on? You and Zag good?

Charon
They're good
Zag's mom is nice

Megaera
Wait, you met Zag's mom??

Charon
Who you asking?

Thanatos
We both met his mom
Zag and I went over for lunch and stayed the afternoon
Charon came in for a drink when he came to get us

Hypnos
You met his mom already? You're in deep, bro

Thanatos
We're good
Really good

Megaera
Awww. Happy for you Than x
So what did you want to talk about tomorrow?

Thanatos
Zag's decided he's comfortable with going public about us
Take control of the story
We need to plan

Hypnos
Wow 🤯
Than, there's no coming back from this
You totally sure?

Thanatos
Yeah. Completely sure.

Hypnos
As your manager, I feel compelled to remind you this is a really bad idea and might kill your career
As your brother, I couldn't be happier for you

Megaera
Ditto that

Charon
What they said

Thanatos
Thanks guys
Love you all
8am your time, 3pm ours?

Hypnos
Works for me. I'll send a meeting link

Megaera
And me
I'll start brainstorming some ideas

Charon
Obviously works for me too

Thanatos
See you all tomorrow
Let's get together at mine when we're back
Miss you guys x

Hypnos
xxx

Megaera
😘

When he looks up, Zag is leaning back with his eyes closed, halfway between wakefulness and sleep. His arm twitches, his head tipping forward until his chin drops. He startles himself awake, meeting Than's eyes and giving him a guilty smile.

"Sleepy?" Than asks, reaching out to stroke his thigh.

"Yeah," Zag yawns. "Happens when I get tipsy sometimes. I'm awake now."

"We're gonna meet with Hyp, Meg and Charon at three tomorrow afternoon. Start thinking about a plan."

"Great. Angelina, Evgenis and Miltos are gonna come round at eight. Angelina says she’s dying of curiosity."

"What did you tell them?"

"I said my James came back for me and I want them to meet him. They're gonna get the shock of their lives when they see you."

"You think they'll recognise me?" Than says stupidly.

Zag rolls his eyes. "Of course. I didn't queue for the special edition of your third album on my own."

"Okay. I'll find a way to look as casual and down to earth as possible." Than bites his lip, nervous all over again.

Is this what a new relationship feels like in the real world, where social circles need to be brought together piece by piece? He's dated plenty over the past ten years, but always other celebrities, where the social circle is shared, expansive, and very loose. He can't think of many people who he wants to know Zagreus beyond Hyp, Meg and Charon. Definitely his band. A few other artists he considers to be closer than most of his friends.

"Don't worry, they're easy going enough. I'm sure it'll be fine once they get over the initial surprise. They can't wait to meet you." Zag covers the hand on his thigh with his own.

"Wait a sec," Than says, replaying what Zag said. "You invited them over to meet your James?"

"Yeah. I told them I met someone and it was amazing but there was no way it could be anything more than a fling. I didn't give them any details on who you are or anything, promise."

"No, that's not what I… you called me your James," Than smiles, the warm comfort of possession settling over him like a weighted blanket.

Zag smiles, understanding brightening his eyes. "Yeah. My Than." He leans forward, cupping his face and running the pad of his thumb over Than's lower lip.

"My Zag," Than murmurs, sliding both hands under Zag's arms and almost yanking him forward so he's lying in his lap, kissing him deeply, desire already prickling over his skin.

"How do you feel about me riding you on this couch?" Zag nips at his lower lip.

"Pretty good," Than pants, squeezing and kneading Zag's beautiful ass. "Go get the stuff?"

"Yes sir," Zag scrambles to his feet, throwing Than a wink over his shoulder as he runs towards the bedroom.

Chapter Text

"This place is so fancy," Zag mutters, walking through the open plan living space towards the folding glass doors that span the entirety of the villa's back wall.

"Is it too much?" Than asks, pulling their luggage inside behind them.

"Maybe a bit," Zag replies, chewing his lip. He knows Than makes a lot of money, but that doesn't mean he's comfortable enjoying the fruits of his labour. If they're going to go public, though, he can only imagine he'll need to get used to it fast. Than's apartment in New York is very unlikely to be a tiny walkup like he’s seen on TV.

"Gotta get used to it, babe." Than wanders into the kitchen area and opens the American style fridge, grabbing two cherry Loux sodas and cracking them open. "When you come to the US, this is the kind of lifestyle you'll be walking into."

"I was just thinking that." Zag takes a grateful sip, leaning back against the glossy countertop. "What's your New York place like?"

"It's a penthouse. Amazing views. It was just remodelled, the style's much cosier than this place." Than gestures to the living area, dominated by minimalist white leather sofas clustered around a sleek glass coffee table. "Like, my couch is good for napping and watching TV. And I have the most amazing music room. Can't wait to show you my guitars."

"Can't wait to see it," Zag smiles, half excited and half nervous about the new life he's about to be thrown into. "How many guitars do you have? And how do you keep your place clean? I guess you have a cleaner?"

"About fifty guitars. I know, I know. I just love collecting them," Than has the decency to look a little sheepish at the extent of his extravagance. "I have a housekeeper, Dusa. She lives in, works six days a week depending on whether I'm there or not, handles all the cooking, cleaning, everything. She was the one who found your postcard."

Zag places his soda on the white marble breakfast bar, grabbing their luggage and dragging it towards the doorway he presumes leads to the bedrooms. "I'll have to thank her then. Isn't it weird, having someone live in your house with you like that?"

Than follows him, walking ahead to open the doors in search of the principal bedroom. "You get used to it. Dusa's very discreet, keeps to herself most of the time. Wow, this room is gorgeous."

"The bed is even more romantic than it looks in the photos," Zag grins, kicking off his shoes and clambering onto the pillowy surface, his knees immediately sinking into the duvet. He unties the ribbons holding the white gossamer curtains against the chrome bedposts, waiting for Than to join him before he lets the final curtain flutter into place. "It's like we're in our own world here."

Than lays beside him, his t-shirt riding up as he stretches. "Gorgeous. Can't wait to make love with you in this bed later."

"Make love, eh?" Zag blushes, draping himself over Than's chest.

"You're not the only one falling, babe," Than murmurs before pulling him down into a leisurely kiss. "Can we try you inside me soon? Maybe tomorrow morning when we've got nothing to do but spend time together?"

"Of course, asteri mou. If you're sure you want to." Zag brushes his lips slowly over Than's, simultaneously excited by the idea and concerned at the speed they’re moving, physically speaking. "If you're comfortable."

"You make me comfortable," Than whispers, pushing an errant lock of hair back behind Zag's ear.

They kiss lazily, the gauzy white fabric billowing around them in the breeze. The bed is perfectly comfortable, the firm mattress beneath them cushioned by what feels like layers of fluffy duvets. Their bodies sink into the softness, adding to the secluded aura of the curtains to make Zag feel as if they're cocooned in their own dreamworld.

Their lengthy, languid kisses break off into sweet, glancing pecks delivered with eyes open and connected. Zag feels the words sitting heavy and honeyed at the back of his throat, words he's never said in a romantic context and finds himself scared to utter now. He loves Than, loves him, loves him, but the words remain locked away.

It's strange, Zag thinks as he kisses Than again and again, his hands cupping his shoulders gently. Choosing to go public, agreeing to follow this man halfway around the world to lay his life out for the world to poke and prod, it's unthinkable that he would do these things without loving Than. So why won't the words come?

Than's amber eyes shine in the softened morning light, soft and tender enough that Zag is reasonably certain his feelings are reciprocated. He realises that that's what's missing; not just reciprocity of emotion, but reciprocity of being accepted into Than's life, as he's accepted Than into his own.

It would be easy to tell him I love you in Greece, where they exist in a state of fragile privacy, with few obstacles to come between them. Far harder to tell him when they're facing the press, fitting Zag into Than's still murkily unknown life in New York. Far more… meaningful. More real.

What's the point of loving someone if your love can only exist in the sunshine?

Zag realises he's afraid. Paying a hypothetical price to love Than is easy enough, but making it real… he's afraid of what that will mean for both of them, separately and together.

"What’re you thinking about? You're frowning," Than murmurs, smoothing the lines between Zag's brows with a firm sweep of his fingertip.

"Just… everything that's gonna happen when we do this. Being with you now feels as easy as breathing. I'm worried it'll be harder when we're in New York," Zag sighs, consciously relaxing his face. Than has enough to worry about without worrying for him.

"It probably will be. You can change your mind any time, you know." Than's lips press together subtly.

"Than, please stop saying that," Zag groans. "I know you're doing it because you're being supportive and because you're so insecure yourself, but if you keep saying it I'm gonna end up questioning whether you believe me when I say I want you. Whether you trust me."

"Zag, no, I'm sorry," Than says, his arms tightening around Zag's back, his fingers gripping into his muscles. "I believe you. I trust you. I'm sorry."

"It’s okay. I'm here," Zag murmurs, pressing another kiss against Than's lips. "I'm not going anywhere."

Than pulls him down into a desperate kiss, his panic causing their teeth to clash briefly before they slip into passion. Zag deliberately slows things down, pushing Than to relax into his arms, pushing him to revel in the raw sweetness of their nascent relationship rather than seeking reassurance in their physical attraction. Than relaxes, his muscles slowly softening until they're kissing tenderly again, his heartbeat slowing to its regular rhythm.

“Okay?” Zag whispers, kissing the bridge of Than’s nose.

“Yeah. Thanks for being so patient with me.” The smile on Than’s face is shy enough to take his breath away.

“You’re welcome, asteri mou. What do you want to do today? We have a few hours before the call with Hypnos, Meg and Charon, right?”

“We do. I kinda feel like cooking. Okay with me taking charge of the kitchen for the day?”

Zag smiles down at him. “Can we make dinner together?”

“Sure. I think they left chicken in the fridge, I’d love it if you taught me how to make a souvlaki marinade. I want to try making tzatziki too.” Than licks his lips exaggeratedly, raising the corners of Zag’s mouth even higher.

“I can help with both of those. Cooking together sounds fun.” Zag dips to kiss him quickly, revelling in the softness of Than’s lips beneath his. “How about a late lunch? I want to swim with you as soon as possible.”

“Let’s do it.” Than cuddles him briefly close, pressing their bodies together and squeezing tight. “You brought swim shorts, right? Charon might be in the guest cottage, but that doesn’t mean he won’t show up at the pool.”

“Yeah. Naked moonlight swimming tonight when he’s asleep?” Zag grins, rolling off the edge of the bed and through the gap in the curtains, his feet landing softly on the carpeted floor.

“You’re on,” Than replies, following him and immediately starting to strip off.

They jump into the pool hand in hand, the cool water chilling Zag’s skin so suddenly he resurfaces with a shout. Than lets go of his hand to swim a quick length, his muscular arms slicing cleanly through the water as he propels himself forwards. Zag pushes his wet hair back from his face, watching as Than swims, taking the opportunity to gawk shamelessly at his partner’s chiselled body as he speeds effortlessly back from the other end of the pool.

Than dives beneath the surface, heading straight towards him with his long platinum hair rippling out behind him like some kind of seductive merman. He swims straight into Zag’s belly, pushing him over and wrapping his arms around his waist. Zag can’t help but flail wildly, trying to avoid overbalancing, giggling as Than lifts him up just before the water crests over his face and fitting his legs around Than’s hips as he stands. He splutters dramatically, throwing accusations of near drowning as Than grins up at him. Rivulets of water run down over his body, caressing the ripples of his muscles as attentively as Zag would if he weren’t hanging on to Than’s shoulders for dear life.

They exchange sweet kisses, lips wet with the water dripping from their hair, the sun warm on their backs as it beats down from the perfect blue sky. They swim lazy lengths side by side, chatting as they move gracefully through the cool water, eventually turning onto their backs to float hand in hand, letting the midday sun toast their skin.

Eventually Zag climbs out of the pool, wrapping himself in a thick white towel and perching on the edge of a padded sun lounger. Than swims lengths in a hypnotically even rhythm, his sculpted legs kicking powerfully as his arms curve through the air. Zag admires how the corded muscles of his forearms shift and tense as he lifts himself out of the pool, his black swim shorts clinging deliciously to his hips.

“Take a picture, Zag, it’ll last longer,” Than laughs, grabbing a towel of his own and sweeping it over his face, planting a foot deliberately between Zag’s thighs and drying his leg perhaps more thoroughly than is strictly necessary.

“Can I?” Zag gazes up at him, watching a bead of water escape his hairline, rolling down the side of his face to splash on his collarbone. “I would love a photo of you looking like this.”

“If you let me show you how to set up a secure folder on your phone, yeah,” Than smiles, dropping his foot back onto the floor, freeing Zag to duck into the kitchen to retrieve the device.

“Get back in the pool,” Zag commands, sitting on the end of the lounger again.

“Really?”

“Yeah. For me?” Zag bats his eyelashes, grinning when Than takes a running leap into the water, mumbling something about a dark haired siren.

He takes a succession of photos as Than lifts himself out of the water and dries himself off again, his posture slightly coy, less confident than it usually is in his press shots. Zag puts the phone down on a small metal table, standing up and tugging Than’s face down for a kiss, the tip of his tongue teasing the seam of his lips as the kiss deepens.

They sit together on the lounger while Than shows him how to create a secure folder and move the photos over. Zag opens the camera app again, flipping the camera and taking a selfie of the two of them sitting side by side. Than turns his head at the last minute, kissing Zag’s temple and snaking an arm around his shoulder, squeezing him tightly. Zag hits the button again and again, taking a series of photos, the two of them slipping from earnest grins to sweet kisses to silly faces before Than takes the phone from Zag's hand and puts it down on the table. He kisses Zag thoroughly before heading into the kitchen to make lunch, refusing all offers of help.

Zag opens the parasol, dragging two loungers into the shade and throwing himself onto one, looking at the photos again with a soft smile on his face. He flicks through the news and gossip sites, alarmed to read a few articles speculating about why Thanatos hasn't been seen since the talk show aired. Thankfully no-one seems to have spotted him on his way to Paros, or on the island itself.

"What you reading?" Than asks, walking out through the open folding doors with two bowls in his hands.

"Gossip sites. They're wondering why you've gone silent since the show." Zag tosses his phone onto the table, taking the bowl Than hands him with a smile. "Thanks for lunch. What are we eating?"

"Chopped salad. I eat a lot of this kind of thing, vegetables and tons of protein. Hope you like it." Than nudges the empty lounger closer to Zag's with his foot before sitting down, producing two forks from his back pocket.

Zag takes a fork, looking beneath a pretty fan of sliced avocado at the mixture of chopped tomato, spring onion, sweet pepper and cucumber. Chunks of grilled chicken and a halved boiled egg are piled next to the avocado, the entire bowl glistening with some kind of dressing. Zag forks a few morsels into his mouth, making happy noises at the flavours. "Mmm, it's good. What's the dressing, lemon juice and olive oil?"

"Yeah, lots of black pepper and some lemon zest in there too," Than replies.

"Yum, thanks," Zag mumbles. He pulls his legs in to sit cross legged, angling his body so his knee rests gently against Than's thigh.

When they're done Zag takes the bowls back into the kitchen, rinsing them under the chrome tap and placing them into the hidden dishwasher. He brings a couple of sodas back out onto the terrace and shuts the parasol, looking forward to a nap in the sun.

Than strips off his t-shirt and passes him a tube of sunscreen, rolling his eyes at the grin that sprouts uncontrollably on his face. "Control yourself, babe."

"Shuffle forward," Zag smiles, sitting behind him on the lounger and kissing the nape of his neck, just below the messy knot of platinum hair. He squeezes some lotion into his palm, spreading it over Than's broad back with long, sweeping strokes. "Want me to do your chest? Or your legs? Or anywhere else?"

Than laughs, his warm skin shuddering beneath Zag's hands. "Last night, this morning, and you still want more?"

"I can't get enough of you." Zag presses his lips against the back of Than's shoulder, kissing his way across his back.

"God, I'm the luckiest man in the world," Than mutters, leaning back into Zag's arms.

Zag hugs him close, kissing him demurely on the cheek. "I think that's me, actually."

"We're both pretty lucky." Than murmurs, sitting up and turning around to kiss him before shooing him back to his own lounger. "I thought you wanted to nap in the sun? Go on. I'll wake you an hour before we need to chat with the others."

It feels utterly decadent to drift off in the sunlight by the sparkling pool, his belly full of good food and his gorgeous boyfriend lying by his side. Zag wakes up what feels like five minutes later, blinking his eyes against the bright light and noticing Than lying on his front beside him, one arm trailing on the sun warmed paving.

"Than?" he yawns, checking the time on his phone and noting with relief that there's still half an hour before their call. Than doesn't move, his muscular back rising and falling gently in the slow, relaxed rhythm of sleep. Zag hauls himself off the lounger, bending over to trail kisses up his spine until he stirs. “Wake up, asteri mou, it’s almost time.”

“Shit, sorry,” Than mumbles, rolling onto his side. “I must have fallen asleep watching you.”

“Cute.” Zag dips to kiss his cheek softly. “Want some coffee?”

“Yeah,” Than stretches. “I should go get my laptop.”

“Cool. Let’s get setup in the living room, ‘kay?”

Twenty minutes later they’re sitting side by side on a white leather couch, the laptop ready on the glass coffee table in front of them.

“Charon joining us?” Zag asks, fidgeting with the raw hem of Than’s denim cutoffs.

“He’ll probably join from the guest cottage. Save us squashing together on the sofa to get him in the frame.”

“Makes sense,” Zag murmurs, rolling a dangling thread between his finger and thumb.

“Nervous about something?” Than asks, his amber eyes warm and soft as he gazes down at him.

“A little. Not sure what they’ll suggest.” Zag tugs at the thread, frowning, his eyebrows raising as Than grabs his hand and squeezes it tightly.

“Knowing Megaera, she’s going to suggest we post an intimate photo on social media. Or leak to the press that I’m taking my secret lover out for dinner at the hottest new restaurant in town. Something splashy. Hypnos will probably suggest we link the story to the new album, tell everyone you inspired it, generate enough interest that the first day of release breaks a streaming record or something,” Than raises their hands to his mouth, kissing each of Zag’s knuckles tenderly. “How do you feel about that kind of thing?”

“Sounds… scary. I’d probably prefer the social media route. The thought of being photographed while trying to eat dinner sounds intimidating.” Zag chews his lip as he imagines a barrage of flashes assaulting them as they walk into a restaurant, the other diners staring as they try to enjoy a meal together.

“Okay. Let’s keep that in mind. Don’t worry, we’ll get you media trained at some point so you know how to deal with the press.”

“Alright,” Zag mumbles, his heart pounding in his chest at the idea of being in the spotlight.

Than’s laptop chirps, the scheduled meeting about to start on the screen in front of them. Than stretches to click the join icon, the screen immediately filled with Hypnos, Megaera and Charon, their backgrounds radically different. The view of Charon’s guesthouse is similar enough to the villa they’re joining from, all sleek leather and glass. Megaera’s background is a blur of lilac and blue, and Hypnos’ is dominated by a gigantic, cosy looking leather chair.

A flurry of greetings and well wishes sets Zag immediately at ease. There’s a difference in how Meg and Hypnos talk to him now, their voices warm and friendly, much less polite and distant.

“Thanatos, is that a smile on your face? Almost forgot what your face looks like without a moody frown.” Hypnos grins teasingly.

“You’re both glowing,” Meg says happily. “You’re gonna photograph so well together. Than, put your arm around him for a sec?”

Than happily complies, tugging Zag into his side.

“Perfect,” she sighs happily. “Just need to get you the right clothes and you’re all set.”

“Let’s get to planning,” Than says. “We’ve got friends coming over for dinner and we’re gonna cook. Discreet friends, don’t worry.”

“God, you’re so domestic already,” Meg cackles as Charon smiles warmly from the guesthouse.

“You better be sure they’re not gonna leak, guys,” Hypnos warns. “Alright, so Meg and I talked beforehand, came up with a proposal.”

“Okay,” Zag says cautiously, not wanting to be left out of the conversation.

“So here’s what we suggest,” Meg begins. “The big awards ceremony is coming up, remember? A week before, we post a photo on social media of the two of you, hashtag love is love, build up some hype.”

Than pokes him gently, a tiny smile dancing on his lips at the accuracy of his predictions.

“And then you go to the awards ceremony together," Hypnos continues. "Walk down the red carpet hand in hand, sit together in the theatre and look all loved up. Don’t think that bit’ll be too difficult. After that, go back on David Falcon, talk about finally breaking free of who the record industry told you you had to be, play a song from the new album while Zag watches."

"It’d be cute if he blushed a little as you did, looked all coy and overwhelmed. Don’t think that’ll be too hard either,” Meg interjects. “Release the album a few weeks later, hope the novelty and the hype generate lots of interest. What do you think?”

Than looks down at him, his fingers sliding under Zag’s chin to tip his face up to meet his gaze. “Your call, Zag. Whatever you decide is fine by me. Seriously. Your call.”

Zag gulps, turning to look back at Than’s laptop.

“If there’s any part that makes you uncomfortable, Zag, we can change it. It’ll still work if we just post a photo and keep you mysterious, try to hide you away from the press for a bit,” Hypnos says empathetically. “We know this isn’t going to be easy for you.”

A few beats of silence and Zag makes up his mind. “I’ll do it. I’d rather not do the talk show part, if that’s okay. I think I’d just freeze and be really awkward. But the photo and the awards ceremony, I think I can do that.”

Meg claps her hands together happily as Hypnos grins. Even Charon cracks a wry smile.

“I’ll be right there, holding your hand,” Than murmurs, gathering him into his side again, dipping to brush a quick kiss over his temple.

“Alright. Than, we need to sell this to the label. It’ll go down much better if you have a finished album to sweeten the deal. When can you come back to New York?” Hypnos asks.

“Zag and I agreed I’d stay another two nights, then fly back,” Than says, his fingers gripping Zag’s hip tightly. “He’ll need to talk to the yacht company about his job, and we’ll need to look into visa options. Lots to organise.”

“Okay, that sounds reasonable. We can make more detailed plans later,” Hypnos says decisively. “Than, I’ll set up a meeting with the label for the day after you’re back. We can take some rough cuts in.”

“Sounds good,” Than replies. “Anything else?”

“We’re good,” Meg grins. “Looking forward to seeing you soon, Zag.”

“Enjoy your last few days together.” Hypnos waves at them before Than cuts the call.

Than turns to face him, his eyes a stormy mixture of warmth and concern. “You alright, babe?”

“Yeah. Feels real. And I’m…. I’m excited. Nervous, of course. But I’m excited. I can’t wait to be a part of your world, the way you’re part of mine,” Zag smiles. Than stands, scooping him up in his arms and carrying him across the room towards the master bedroom, the scent of sunscreen rising from his warm skin. “Where are we going?!”

“Shower, and then I’m going to blow you on that very romantic bed of ours,” Than grins, nipping his lower lip playfully.

“Oh,” Zag giggles coyly, feeling small and delicate cradled in Than’s arms. “Didn’t you want to get started on dinner?”

“Dinner can wait,” Than growls, kicking the bedroom door shut behind them.

Chapter Text

When the doorbell rings, it’s a pretentious tinkle of chiming digital bells, grandiose enough that when Than glances at Zag they both dissolve into peals of laughter immediately.

“Should I come to the door with you?” Than asks, opening a bag of pistachio nuts and pouring them into a bowl just for something to do with his hands. He’s more nervous about meeting Zag’s friends than he thought he’d be, given that lunch with Persephone went so well.

“Nah, let’s get them inside before we shock them half to death,” Zag smiles. “Enough snacks, asteri mou, I think we’re covered.”

“Okay,” Than replies, wiping his sweaty hands on the apron tied over his t-shirt and shorts. “I’ll just take these outside and put them with the olives and the chips.”

“You do that, I’ll let them in.” Zag blows him a kiss as he turns towards the front door.

It takes less time than Than thought it would to take the bowl of nuts to the chrome and glass table set beside the pool. He hears Zag haul the front door open, a cacophony of excited greetings echoing through the living space as Zag’s friends crowd into the villa. They’re speaking Greek, of course, leaving Than completely in the dark about what they’re saying, the exception being the word James repeated again and again.

He rearranges the bowls into a neat line, unsure whether he should walk back into the house or let Zag bring their guests to him.

“Super fancy place, Zag.” A deep baritone switches to English.

Here goes nothing, Than thinks. He takes a deep breath and walks slowly back across the terrace towards the house.

“Is that–”

“Fuck, Zag, he’s James?”

“Are you serious, Zag? How the fuck–”

Their voices die out as Than steps into the living room. Three people stare at him in wide eyed surprise.

“Hello,” Than says quietly, trying to stop the celebrity mask snapping into place to hide his nerves.

Zag turns to him immediately, picking up on the slight discomfort in his voice. He crosses the room, taking his hand and tugging him towards his shell shocked friends. “This is Thanatos, guys.”

“Oh, I didn't recognise him," Angelina mutters, her voice dripping with confused sarcasm.

“Than, the rude one is Angelina, and this is her brand new husband Evgenis, and this is Miltos.” Zag gestures to each of his friends in turn.

“Hi,” Than tries again. “It’s great to meet you. Zag’s told me a lot about you.”

They seem at a loss for words, eyes darting between the villa and Thanatos, their gazes skittering away too quickly to make eye contact.

“Alcohol,” Zag says decisively. “Who wants a drink?”

“Me,” four voices chime at once. A single beat of silence passes before everyone laughs, the tension easing momentarily.

“Than, open that bottle of red, okay? Miltos and Angelina will like it. Evgenis, beer? Or do we need to break out the tequila?” Zag says, tinges of relief evident in his voice.

Than shuffles over to the kitchen island, grateful to have something to do.

“Beer’s fine,” Evgenis says.

“I’d take some tequila,” Angelina pipes up hopefully.

“I was joking, we don’t have any,” Zag shrugs, ushering his friends over towards the kitchen.

Than pours four glasses of wine, lining them up and letting Zag hand them out. He tugs the fridge open, grabbing a bottle of chilled lager and flipping the cap off, handing it over to Evgenis, who steps forward nervously to receive it.

“Thanks,” Evgenis says, making deliberate eye contact and giving Than a strained smile.

“Yamas,” Zag says, raising his glass. His friends step automatically closer, the soft chime of glass ringing out as they touch their glasses and bottle to his and to Than’s.

“Let’s sit outside?” Than ventures, gesturing out into the twilight.

“Good idea, let’s go.” Zag herds his friends outside, smiling supportively at Than and stroking his arm as he passes.

They sit down around the table, Than edging his chair closer to Zag’s as he takes a sip of wine. It’s a nice bottle, Zag told him it was, but somehow the taste doesn’t quite make it from his tongue to his brain, his mind consumed with the need to win the approval of Zag’s closest friends.

“Okay,” Zag sighs. “I know you probably wanna ask a ton of questions, just go ahead. I’m sorry I didn’t tell you before, but you know how seriously I take the discretion part of my job, and, well… you can understand why we’re keeping this quiet.”

“I can't believe you’re the mysterious James,” Angelina says, her eyes still wide. “I thought Zag said there was no way you could be together?”

“I guess now you can understand why we thought that,” Than replies softly, taking another sip of wine. Zag squeezes his thigh under the table, glancing up at him as he raises his own glass to his lips. “But when I went back to New York after the yacht, I couldn’t stop thinking about him. Eventually I had to come back. And here we are.”

“Wait a second,” Miltos frowns. “That video that was doing the rounds. Of you on that talk show, singing Love Me Like You Do. You were singing for Zag?”

“I was, yeah. Genuinely didn’t know what I was going to sing when I opened my mouth.” Than turns to smile at Zag, bravely taking his hand and raising it to his lips, conscious of the eyes following his movements. He presses a soft kiss against Zag’s knuckles, making to let go of his hand and smiling when Zag holds on to him, dropping their clasped hands onto the table.

“Okay. Sorry, I don’t understand how things have changed. I mean, I’m guessing no-one knows you’re gay, Thanatos?” Miltos asks cautiously.

“Bi, actually. Zag was the first person I ever told. Being gay or bi in the music industry isn’t… let’s say it’s not compatible with maximising public appeal. Zag was so open and comfortable with his own sexuality, and I was jealous. I wanted that freedom. I want that freedom.” Than corrects himself, pushing through the discomfort of sharing his secrets with Zag’s friends. Zag smiles softly at him, pride shining in his eyes, causing Than’s heart to clench and flip with gratitude and the reassuring feeling of being seen.

“I’m going to New York,” Zag says abruptly, turning back to his friends. “Not yet, but soon. Than’s going to come out, and I’m going to be by his side when he does.”

A shocked murmur races around the table. Angelina and Evgenis glance at each other as Miltos’ eyebrows climb high on his forehead.

“But, Zag, if you’re by his side… the whole world’s going to know about you,” Angelina states, her voice wavering.

“People will blame you for turning him gay,” Evgenis states bluntly. “No offence, Thanatos. I don’t care, but some people will.”

“It’s alright,” Than murmurs. “You’re not wrong.”

“You’ll become famous overnight,” Miltos frowns.

“Remember you told me that life’s so much more wonderful when you have someone wonderful to share it with, Evgenis? I get it now. He makes every moment more wonderful,” Zag says quietly, his words sending aching waves of tenderness through Than’s chest. “I know it’s going to be weird. But this is what I want. And I didn’t want you to find out in the press.”

“This is big. Is there anything we can do to help?” Evgenis asks before taking a long swallow of beer.

“Keep this between us until the time comes, obviously. And be there for him, when it does. He’ll need you,” Than says, glancing at Zag before catching Evgenis' eye. “It’s not easy, living in the public eye. I’m used to it. But he’ll need your support.”

“Of course,” Angelina says, standing up and walking around the table, wrapping her arms around Zag’s shoulders and hugging him tight. Zag hugs her back as best he can, letting go of Than’s hand to squeeze her arm reassuringly.

Than watches gratefully, happy that Zag has such close friends around him who accept him exactly as he is. Angelina releases him, but instead of walking back to her seat, she hovers behind his chair, gesturing for him to get up.

“Come on, Thanatos, if you’re gonna be in his life I’m gonna hug you too,” she says.

“Call me Than,” he replies, stepping straight into a warm if slightly awkward hug.

“Alright, Than. God, you must work out all the time. Evgenis, maybe he can give you some tips.” she winks before skipping back to her seat, blowing her husband a kiss as she drains her glass. “Got any more wine? And we’re eating, right?”

The atmosphere softens, tension draining away as Zag springs up to go fetch more booze. Than crosses the terrace to light the grill, winking at Zag when he returns with fresh bottles of wine and beer.

Miltos helps him bring the marinated chicken and the vegetable kebabs from the fridge, asking questions about what it’s really like to be world famous as Than lays the food out to cook. Than asks about his work as a teacher, and Miltos seems pleased that Than knows enough about him to be interested. Time passes quickly in light conversation as Than bastes and turns the meat.

Zag sidles up to him, wrapping an arm around his waist and kissing his cheek, holding him for a moment before Evgenis and Angelina follow to gather around the grill.

"You look good together," Angelina smiles.

"You do," Evgenis agrees. "Still not over seeing one of my rock idols in an apron cooking dinner, though."

Than laughs, grateful for the candour. "I cook whenever I can. Even rock idols need a balance of interests in their lives."

"He's a great cook, don't worry," Zag adds, smiling at him fondly.

Than moves the chicken to a cooler part of the grill and adds the skewered vegetables. "Should be ready in ten minutes or so. I'll just go get everything else."

"I'll go, asteri mou," Zag says, his gaze so tightly anchored on Than's face that he doesn't notice his friends exchanging a look at the pet name. "You stay and chat."

"Alright, thanks babe," Than replies, curious to see their reaction. Angelina grins at Zag's retreating back, seemingly happy for her friend. Than breathes a sigh of relief, a little of the drive to impress dissipating.

Zag brings salad, bread and tzatziki, returning to the kitchen for plates and silverware. When the vegetables are charred and fragrant Than slides them onto a plate, filling another with blackened chicken and placing them both in the middle of the table. He refills everyone's drinks, dropping a kiss on top of Zag's head as he pours the last of the red wine into his glass.

Their guests fill their plates, making appreciative noises as they taste the food, sharing compliments which are only a little overly effusive.

"So, Than," Evgenis says, dragging a chunk of pitta bread through the dollop of tzatziki on his plate. "How many drunk Zagreus stories have you heard?"

"Um, none?" Than grins, sparing a glance at his groaning boyfriend.

"He gets really intense when he's drunk," Angelina says with a wink.

"The strange thing is that he can get intense in so many different ways. Affectionate, happy, nostalgic," Miltos clarifies.

"Remember that time we were drinking on the beach all afternoon and he started crying about how wonderful the sea is?" Evgenis snorts.

"Crying about the sea?" Than turns to look at Zag, noting his flushed cheeks and the embarrassed smile on his lips.

"It looked beautiful, alright? Made me feel really grateful for all the life it supports," Zag mumbles, stuffing a piece of chicken into his mouth.

"Ooh, I think I have a photo," Angelina says, taking her phone from her pocket and ignoring Zag's protests. "He took all his clothes off and ran into the sea, that’s how grateful he was. Here, Than, look."

Than stretches across the table to see the image on her phone. Zag's naked ass is pale, in contrast to his tanned back and limbs, running into the ocean mid stride with the waves crashing at his feet.

"Wow," Than laughs. “What were you drinking, Zag?”

Zag simply rolls his eyes.

"I might have a photo of him with blonde hair from when we were kids. You have to see," Angelina says, flicking through the photos on her phone quickly.

"I showed him those already. He's seen everything on my pinboard at home." Zag takes a sip of his wine.

"You took him home?" Miltos asks, his fork poised in mid air, eyebrow raised.

"Yeah, yesterday. Mama approves," Zag smiles.

"Huh. You’ve never taken anyone home before," Evgenis says carefully.

“Never found anyone worth taking home before,” Zag shrugs. “Hey, can we move on from the embarrassing Zag part of the evening? How was the honeymoon?”

“It was great,” Angelina beams. “Thanks for the hotel recommendation, Zag, they gave us a really lovely suite with its own private pool. Feels strange that the wedding’s behind us now, after so many months of planning.”

“Does it feel different, being married?” Miltos asks, slicing a piece of chicken in half.

“Yes,” Evgenis says, at the same time as Angelina says no. They glance at each other and burst into giggles.

Than sneaks a glance at Zag, his heart warming at the fond smile touching his lips. It’s obvious how much he loves his friends, and how much they love him in return.

“Alright, Evgenis, what’s different?” Zag grins, taking a sip of wine and sitting back in his chair.

“I don’t know how my wife sees it, but the commitment feels deeper to me,” Evgenis says, leaning over to brush a strand of hair behind Angelina’s ear.

“We’ve been together for ten years,” she says, smiling up at him. “What do you mean by deeper?”

“This might sound a little strange, but before we were tied together by how much we love each other, right? Now we’re tied together in a whole new set of ways. Like, legally. In the eyes of all our friends and our families. I like having all these new ties to you. I like feeling like our lives are entangled in almost every way they could be. When we have kids, it’s another way again,” Evgenis shrugs. “I dunno if that makes sense. I guess I’m saying that I feel even more deeply bound to you than before. In a good way.”

Angelina nudges her chair a little closer to her husband’s, kissing his cheek sweetly. “It makes sense. Now you mention it, I feel the same way. Like, every chance we got to commit to each other, we took it. Every thread that could bind our lives together, we chose it. And we’ll keep doing it for the rest of our lives.”

“Awww you guys,” Zag coos, his voice surprisingly thick. When Than looks over, his eyes are shining, almost overspilling with emotion. He slides an arm around his shoulders, pleased by how naturally he leans into his body for comfort even when his attention is elsewhere. Zag picks up his wine glass, holding it in the air. “To Angelina and Evgenis. Congratulations.”

Than lifts his own glass, echoing Zag’s words softly.

They work their way slowly through the platter of chicken and vegetables, the bowl of tzatziki and the plate of pitta bread dwindling as the sun sinks below the horizon. Lights flicker on across the terrace, from underwater spotlights in the pool to elegant sconces set on the high, vine covered walls.

“This place is gorgeous,” Miltos says, pushing his plate away and looking around the enclosed space. “Didn’t even know there were villas this high end on the island. How did you find it?”

“My assistant found it for us,” Than replies, hoping to avoid a discussion about the lifestyle he enjoys. It’s so rare that he spends time with people who aren’t as privileged as he is. The usual mild, shapeless sense of guilt he feels for the lifestyle he has sharpens at the attention.

“Oh, nice,” Miltos replies mildly, seemingly reading Than’s discomfort. “How long are you staying?”

“Two more nights,” Than glances down at Zag, tucked into his side, a dreamy smile playing across his lips as he finishes his wine. “Heading back to New York soon. Zag’ll join me when we’ve worked out the logistics of going public.”

“Wow, New York,” Angelina sighs. “Always wanted to go there.”

“Maybe you’d like to visit us, once everything’s out in the open?” Than asks tentatively, wondering if he’s speaking out of turn. Zag turns his face up to Than’s, his mismatched eyes unreadable. “I have an apartment in New York, plenty of room if you’d like to come stay.”

Angelina’s mouth drops open. Evgenis rushes to fill the silence. “Very kind of you to offer, Than. Let’s see how things go for you guys first.”

“Sure,” Than replies, concern rippling across his shoulders as he wonders if he’s overstepped. “I bet there are some great places for karaoke in New York. You like karaoke, right Angelina?”

She nods enthusiastically. “Yeah, I do. Not sure how I’d feel about doing karaoke with an actual rock star though. I don’t know if I’d be able to get over my nerves and sing.”

“You would,” Evgenis and Zag say at the same time, cracking up as they catch each other’s eye.

“You’re a good singer,” Than says, grinning as Angelina blushes. “I’d sing with you.”

“He does that,” Zag grins, watching Angelina’s face slowly turn red. “Compliments people half to death.” He nudges Than gently to show him he’s joking.

“Wait, how do you know she can sing?” Miltos asks, ever observant.

“I kept an eye on Zag’s socials when we were apart. Saw the videos he posted.”

“Awww, keeping tabs on your man even though you were apart,” Angelina says happily.

“I missed him,” Than murmurs, his arm tightening around Zag’s shoulders as he presses a kiss to his temple. Zag turns his face up, pulling Than in for a quick, chaste kiss.

“Alright, my friends, I think that’s our cue to leave the lovebirds in peace. Can we help you clear up?” Miltos says, pushing his chair back and starting to stack the empty plates.

“No, don’t worry, I’ll do it later,” Than replies, releasing Zag and rising to take the plates from Miltos. “Thanks so much for coming, guys. It was fantastic to meet you. I hope we get to hang out again soon.”

They wander through the living room back towards the front door.

“So happy for you.” Miltos pulls Zag into a warm hug, slapping his shoulder gently. “Thanks for cooking, Than.”

“Take care of our Zag, okay?” Angelina says, stretching up to kiss Than on the cheek. “If you hurt him, I’ll hunt you down."

Evgenis shakes his hand warmly before hugging Zag tightly. “Thanks guys. Good luck with everything, let us know what we can do to help.”

Than stands behind Zag, arms tight around his waist as they watch Evgenis, Angelina and Miltos pile into a small blue car, waving as they set off down the long, winding road leading down the hill. “Was that okay? Do you think they approve of us?”

“I had a great evening, and I think they did too, once they got over the shock,” Zag smiles, waving once more before pulling the heavy door shut and locking it securely. He turns around in Than’s arms, letting him step in to crush him against the smooth surface, tipping his face upwards to receive the passionate kiss Than can’t help but press against his lips.

“Let’s go clean up,” Than whispers, grinning as Zag’s hands curve around his hips. “Sooner the dishwasher’s on, sooner we can go to bed.”

“I’ve never been so motivated to load a dishwasher in my entire life,” Zag laughs, pushing Than away gently. “Thanks for tonight, asteri mou. I’m so happy you get on with my friends.”

“Me too,” Than murmurs, taking Zag’s hand and leading him back towards the kitchen. “I like this. Cooking together, tidying up together, having friends around. It feels good.”

“More threads binding our lives together, like Angelina said,” Zag smiles, dropping Than’s hand to yank the dishwasher open.

Than watches him start to load the plates for a moment before he heads outside to gather the glasses, his heart so full it feels like it might burst.

Chapter Text

Zag yawns and rolls over in the soft, fluffy bed, almost colliding with Than’s shoulder. Than might fall asleep on his side cuddling him close, but some mornings he wakes up to find Than dozing on his back in the very centre of the bed. Not that he minds at all - draping himself over Than’s chest to watch him wake up is a pleasure Zag will happily enjoy any morning.

He shuffles closer, draping his leg over Than’s thigh and resting his cheek on his collarbone. The silence around them is thick enough that all Zag can hear is their breath, coordinated in relaxed sighs as they cuddle in the muted morning light. He shifts, daring to press a soft kiss against the warmth of Than’s throat, smiling as he purrs contentedly, still asleep.

Zag brushes his mouth mindlessly back and forth over his lover’s neck, focusing on the velvet tingle the movement creates on his lips. He wonders if Than still wants to bottom for the first time today, their last full day before he flies back to New York. He hopes so; Than’s enjoyment of Zag's fingers has grown and grown over the past few days, almost to the point that he nearly begs for what's become one of Zag's favourite ways to take him apart.

Than mutters something under his breath, unconsciously pressing his body closer. Zag responds by trailing his fingers over his trapezius, remembering how he sunk his teeth into the muscle last night. After they had tidied the kitchen, they’d run to the bedroom, barely taking their clothes off in their desperation for each other. Later, they snuck outside to swim naked in the pool under the starlit sky, the moon painting their skin with glowing silver light as they held each other in the cool water. A quick shower and they’d ended up making love a second time, Than fucking him slowly until they came together again.

They should both be satiated if not exhausted, and yet Zag feels the first tendrils of desire start to warm his blood. He kisses his way down Than’s neck, shifting to press wet kisses along his collarbone and smiling as Than’s arm wraps around his waist. He can’t get enough of Than, the feel of his body pressed against Zag’s, the way he looks when he comes. If they only have another day and night together before they’re separated, Zag wants to spend as much time as possible entwined with him.

Than’s fingers tighten on his waist as he trails kisses back to Than’s sternum, licking delicately at the defined furrow between his pecs.

“Mmm, Zag,” Than moans, his voice blurry with sleep, a frown appearing on his brow as he fights his dreams in pursuit of his touch.

The warmth of desire blooms into heat as Zag’s lips move steadily over the lower contour of Than’s left pectoral muscle. His upper body is so built, the muscles sharply defined under his smooth brown skin, almost demanding to be worshipped. Zag lifts his mouth from his partner’s chest, cupping Than’s pec with his left hand, thumb skating close to his nipple.

“Yes,” Than gasps, his eyelids flickering. It feels so right to rub his thumb slowly over the peaked flesh, his cock hardening at the sounds falling from Than’s lips. His amber eyes fly open, rolling back in his head before he turns his gaze to meet Zag’s. “Fuck, you make waking up so enjoyable.”

Than moves him so their legs are tangled, holding him in place as he rolls his hips up against his body. They’re both already on their way to full hardness, their desire burning hotter and more intense the more they try to satisfy it. Zag dips to take Than’s nipple into his mouth, an involuntary moan escaping him as he bites gently over the hard nub. A sharp inhalation and Than yanks him upwards straight into an urgent kiss, his hands cupping his face with a delicacy that contrasts perfectly with the hungry movements of his mouth.

“Mmm, good morning,” Zag murmurs when they finally break apart, nipping at Than’s lower lip gently.

“Good morning yourself,” Than mutters, scratching his nails lightly down Zag’s back, setting his skin alight with sensation. “I want you.”

“I can tell,” Zag says, his voice rough even to his own ears. He slips a hand between them, pressing and rubbing their lengths together, delighted with the way Than’s hips move involuntarily towards him. “Do you still want me inside you, asteri mou?”

“Yeah,” Than breathes, his dick jumping against Zag’s. “Yeah, put it in me. Fuck me.”

“Can I open you up with my tongue? Is that okay?” Zag feels Than’s cock twitch again. “I felt that, but I need you to tell me.”

“Yeah, s’okay,” Than whispers. “But… don’t you want me to shower first?”

“I’m okay with whatever. Would you feel more comfortable if we did?”

Than nods, following Zag out of the cocoon of the four poster bed and into the en-suite bathroom. The water falls like warm tropical rain, its passage over their bodies repeated in the long, slow strokes of their hands over each other’s skin. They trade leisurely kisses, desire simmering between them, no need to rush towards the pleasure they both know awaits them.

“You good?” Zag asks quietly, his fingers venturing between Than’s cheeks, washing him gently.

“Couldn’t be better.” Than dips to kiss him again like he just can’t stay away.

Eventually the water starts to turn their skin wrinkly. Than turns the shower off while Zag grabs some towels, the brief break between kisses ending as they blindly pat each other dry.

Zag arranges Than on his front in the pillowy bedding, stroking his hands reassuringly over the curve of his ass as he trails kisses over the dimples at the base of his spine. “Tell me if you’re uncomfortable, alright?”

Than makes a vague noise of assent, hips pressing back as teeth sink gently into the firm flesh below. Zag spreads his cheeks gently, letting his breath ghost over Than’s hole before he flicks his tongue delicately over his entrance. Than’s hips twitch, his muffled moan deepening as Zag repeats the motion, his own desire burning hotter at the evidence of his enjoyment.

His breathing grows harsher with each pass of Zag’s tongue over him, his body slowly relaxing as he lavishes him with pleasure. When he’s sure Than’s ready, Zag dips his tongue inside, thrusting shallowly to soften the tight muscle. The volume of Than’s moans escalates, his hips pushing helplessly towards Zag’s face, fingers digging into the sheets as he starts tonguing him faster, the wet sounds of his saliva working into Than’s hole filling the bedroom. Zag breathes deeply through his nose, unwilling to take his mouth from Than’s hole for a single second, determined to drag as much pleasure from his body as he can.

“Zag,” Than groans, his words barely discernible. “Please.”

“Hmm?” Zag licks him again and again. “You say something?”

“Zag!” Than’s voice is rough, guttural with the intensity of his desire.

He gives Than just a few more licks and kisses, beyond aroused by the quivering damp flesh beneath his lips. He helps Than turn over onto his back with trembling hands, his cock pulsing at the first sight of his eyes, darkened with need and overflowing with trust. He shoves two fluffy pillows beneath Than’s hips, stroking his hands reassuringly over his thighs.

“Wrap your legs around me, okay?” Zag says, reaching into the nightstand for a condom and rolling it on as quickly as is safely possible. “We’ll take it slow.” He kneels between Than’s legs and sits back on his heels, shifting their bodies until Than’s ass presses against Zag’s thighs, legs either side of his hips. “Feel. Just relax and feel.”

With one hand he grasps his cock firmly, trailing his fingers between Than’s cheeks with the other. He rubs the head of his cock against Than’s hole, feeling him immediately tense up. “Relax. I’m not gonna push into you until you’re ready. Trust me.”

Than drags in a deep, deliberate breath, consciously relaxing his body. “I’m… I’m nervous.”

Zag stops immediately, letting go of his cock to stroke Than’s hips and thighs reassuringly. “Okay. You want to stop? Do something else?”

“No,” Than whispers. “No, just… I want to keep going.”

“We can always stop,” Zag murmurs, pressing forward to kiss him gently. “Any time. Okay?”

“Keep going,” Than murmurs against his lips, his fingers tracing the contours of Zag’s jaw.

Zag lines himself up again, rubbing deliberate circles over the furl of muscle with the covered head of his cock. “Is this alright?”

“Feels good,” Than whimpers, his body relaxing until he’s pliant in Zag’s hands. “Please.”

Zag presses his hips forwards, the head of his cock pushing through the first ring of muscle. He bites his lip hard, distracting himself from how perfectly hot and tight Than feels around him, suppressing the urge to thrust inside all the way. Than’s thighs tense around his hips, tiny moans escaping his lips, his amber eyes opening to gaze at Zag intently. “More, Than? You’re in control.”

Than nods, pushing his hips towards Zag’s stomach as Zag presses in a little deeper. A few moments to let him get used to the feeling, and Zag pushes deeper still, slowly working his full length inside, his breath laboured in his chest already. Than gazes at him, his brow furrowed as he absorbs the new sensations, his cock hard and twitching against his belly. “I feel so full of you, babe...”

“Move whenever you’re ready. You’re in control, move however you want. I’ve got you.” Zag smoothes his hands over the underside of Than’s thighs, supporting his body as he starts to roll his hips. “Fuck, you feel amazing.”

Than whimpers, working his hips in slow circles, grinding Zag’s cock inside him. Zag watches, admiring the slight gleam of sweat on Than’s perfect body, watching his muscles shift as he fucks himself slowly and steadily, sensation rippling through his cock with every twitch of Than’s hips. Than’s whimpers deepen into full, breathy moans, his hands reaching for Zag’s forearms to anchor himself as he starts to drag himself up and down Zag’s length.

“You’re so hot, asteri mou,” Zag groans, pleasure crackling like electricity over his skin as he glances down to where their bodies are joined, Than’s hole clutching at the base of his cock. “Tell me if you want to go harder. You’re taking me so well.”

“Yeah,” Than pants, writhing around Zag’s cock as best he can. “Fuck me.”

Zag moans, thrusting back and forth to the rhythm Than sets with every twist of his hips, the room filling with the reverberating slap of skin against skin. Than gasps beneath him, taking Zag’s cock like he was born to do it, sparks of pleasure radiating from every point of perfect contact between them.

“You want more, Than?” Zag breathes, trailing a hand over his stomach towards his cock, stroking him firmly from root to tip, gasping in a lungful of air at the slickness dampening the head. Than pants, nodding vigorously as he moves against Zag, a bead of sweat running down the side of his face. Before he’s even thought about what he’s doing, Zag leans forward to lick it away, capturing Than’s lips briefly before whispering in his ear. “Get on your hands and knees, let me do the work.”

He pulls out, leaving Than shivering, scooting backwards on the bed and helping Than to roll his tremulant body over and onto all fours. He runs a hand down Than’s spine and over the beautiful curve of his ass, fingers teasing his hole as Than pushes back, shivering. “Alright?”

“Yeah,” Than mumbles, his thighs quivering against Zag’s.

"You're enjoying this?" Zag circles Than's hole with the head of his cock again. “You’re sure?”

“I’m sure.” Than looks over his shoulder, catching Zag in the heat of his gaze. “You want me to beg?”

“No, no, I’ve got you,” Zag replies. Slowly, he pushes his cock gently back inside, gritting his teeth at the intensity of the feeling, his hands gripping Than’s hips. “Fuck, Than.”

Than moans, shifting forward and wriggling his hips back. “Fuck me, babe.”

Zag holds his hips still, pulling out almost completely and sliding back in, grunting as his hips connect with Than’s ass. He pauses for a moment before repeating the motion, beyond aroused by the noises falling from Than’s perfect lips. He increases the pace, watching as Than’s back arches, his platinum hair spilling over his shoulders almost begging to be gathered in Zag’s hands and tugged firmly. He resists, wanting to give Than the sweetest of first times, hoping that he’ll enjoy bottoming enough that Zag can fuck him hard and dirty at some point in the near future.

Satisfied that Than’s moans and sighs are composed only of honeyed pleasure, Zag slips his hand around Than’s hip to stroke his cock. Than jolts against him, his legs wobbling briefly as Zag strokes him, spreading the silky precome over the head and using it to tease the barbell, his fingers matching the rhythm set by his hips.

Than starts moaning his name, his hole tightening as he clenches around Zag’s dick hard enough that it’s increasingly hard to hold off his orgasm. Zag takes the hint, shortening his thrusts until he’s grinding inside him, trying to find the right angle to hit his prostate. When he finds it, Than cries out, his legs shaking enough that Zag’s fingers automatically dig into his hip to prevent him from collapsing. He pulls out, earning a wounded whimper from Than, turning him back onto his back and hovering above his sweat slicked body to kiss him.

“Look at you, you’re shaking. Let me take care of you like this,” Zag says, smiling as Than grabs his face and pulls him into a deep, loving kiss, his tongue sliding over Zag’s hungrily.

He pushes Than’s legs apart and back, lining himself up and pushing home. Than’s arms wrap around his back, alternating between hugging him close and digging his fingers into Zag’s skin. He knows he won’t last much longer, Than’s body overwhelmingly tight around him, almost as tight as the grip he has on Zag’s heart. He slips an arm beneath Than’s shoulder, supporting himself as he fucks him slow and deep, his free hand squeezing between them to fondle Than’s cock.

“Zag, I’m gonna come,” Than whines, his nails sharp on Zag’s shoulders.

“Fuck, me too,” Zag pants, his thoughts scattering as Than’s limbs tighten around him, forcing Zag to move his whole body to fuck Than with the intensity he deserves. “Inside you, or pull out?”

“Inside, come inside me.” Than’s reply is immediate and decisive, his body drawing tighter the closer he gets to his peak. Their kisses turn sloppy and blurry, each of them gasping for air as they climb together.

“Than, fuck, yes,” Zag cries out, his hand squeezing Than’s cock hard as he comes, rolling his hips as Than tightens around him even more, his body spasming as he comes all over Zag’s fingers. Than’s nails dig into Zag’s back, his teeth finding Zag’s neck, the combination of the sharp pain and Than’s obvious enjoyment drawing out his orgasm deliciously. His fingers continue to stroke Than’s cock until he slumps bonelessly into the mattress, making faint noises about overstimulation.

Zag kisses a path from Than’s forehead to his lips, a satisfied purr vibrating in his chest. He wants to tell Than he loves him, his heart still pounding as they come down together. He holds back, wanting to say the words for the first time so that Than knows how completely and deeply he adores him, unsullied by the satiated glow of a recent climax.

“How was that?” he asks gently between kisses, enjoying the way Than’s lips curve like the cat that got the cream and a nap in the sun.

Than brushes a sweaty lock of hair away from his face, his eyes a study of subdued exhilaration. “Pretty sure you felt how hard I came, Zag.”

“Mmm, I did. Also felt your nails and your teeth,” Zag grins, kissing the sudden burst of contrition from Than’s lips. “I liked it, don’t worry. I like the idea of you enjoying yourself so much you can’t help but mark me. But tell me… how do you feel? You were scared before, and you said the idea of taking a dick up the ass felt shameful… How do you feel now?”

“I feel great,” Than smiles shyly, hands moving over Zag’s skin like he wants to touch him everywhere at once. “You made it so good for me. And I… how can it be shameful to be so intimate with someone I… care for so deeply?”

Zag swallows his smile, certain Than feels the same rosy, loving glow in his chest. He hopes Than’s saving the words just like he is, hoping that their love for each other will deepen and grow as they navigate the challenges ahead of them. “I’m glad you feel that way. Do that again sometime?”

“Definitely,” Than nips at his lower lip. “How about we make breakfast together, eat it in bed, and rest until we’re ready to go again?”

Zag laughs, his heart light with elation. “Sounds perfect. You want to spend the day in bed, then?”

“I can’t think of any better way to spend our last day together,” Than breathes, smiling up at him.

“Me neither,” Zag replies, pulling out gently and rocking back to kneel on the bed between Than’s legs. “Come on, I’m starving.”

They push the sheer curtains back from around the bed, sharing a sweet kiss before they drift into the bathroom to clean up. In the kitchen, Than pushes Zag onto a bar stool to watch as he prepares breakfast, an ebullient smile on his face. He chops sweet peppers and fragrant onions, washes some spinach and cracks some eggs, setting a deep frying pan on the stove with a knob of yellow butter and a splash of golden olive oil. Zag gets up from his seat, brewing coffee and pouring juice to accompany their meal.

The vegetable frittata ends up being a little too substantial to eat in bed. They’re content to sit next to each other on the high stools, Zag’s knee resting lightly against Than’s, chatting easily as they gobble down their food. The coffee invigorates them, Zag jumping upmake more as they relax together, their plates scrupulously clean before them.

Than unloads the dishwasher, putting the plates and glasses away as Zag loads their dirty dishes and turns the appliance back on. It feels wonderful, the quiet domesticity, tasks interspersed with casual touches and thoughtless, natural kisses.

When the kitchen is clean, Than cages Zag against the white marble countertop, kissing him deeply, his fingers pushing gently into Zag’s hopelessly tangled hair, his lips curving into a sultry smile as Zag’s cock stirs against his hip. The world tilts as Than lifts him over his shoulder, slapping his ass as he kicks his legs helplessly, laughing as he carries him back to the bedroom. The bedding sighs at the impact as Than throws him on the bed, pulling their robes off in record time until their naked skin presses together once again.

They end up on their sides, face to face, kissing as they stroke each other slowly and teasingly towards their peaks, too enamoured by the sensation of their lips and hands moving together to do anything else.

The rest of the day passes in a haze of cooking, eating, showering and fucking, each breathy gasp and overwhelmed shudder binding them together more tightly. Than shakes his head when Zag disappears into the kitchen and returns with the tub of ice cream and a spoon, his laughter softening the playful disapproval . He uses his size advantage to wrestle Zag onto his back, pinning him down and feeding him spoonfuls of vanilla sweetness before an icy dollop finds its way accidentally to his nipple.

When evening slips into night, they doze, luxuriating in the warmth of their bodies pressed together, too euphoric to care about the stickiness of their skin. Zag smiles, thinking about how different this last night together is from the last one.

When Than flies back to New York tomorrow, they won’t be saying goodbye.

Chapter Text

One last breakfast and Charon drives them all to the airfield, handing Zag the keys so he can return the rental car. The atmosphere between them is sweet and heady, the sadness of parting tempered with the promise of a reunion sooner rather than later. Than leads Zag up the stairs of the jet, pulling him close for the kind of goodbye kiss that carries every shred of emotion they’re both leaving unnamed.

Charon snaps a few photos of them together, arms wound around each other tightly enough that the embrace could never be mistaken for a platonic hug. He sends the photos to Zag before he locks himself in the bathroom, allowing the happy couple a few more minutes of privacy before they part.

They exchange one more deep, passionate kiss before Zag runs down the steps and onto the warm tarmac, making his way to lean against the rental car. He watches as the plane takes off, tracking its progress into the brilliant blue sky until it vanishes behind the wispy clouds. His phone vibrates in his pocket a moment later, a notification from James lighting up the screen.

“And this is my music room. Best room in the whole apartment,” Than says proudly, pushing the door open and moving slowly through the room, giving Zag time to admire both drum kits and the piano.

“Where are your guitars? I see a few, but I thought you said you had fifty of them?” Zag asks, sitting cross legged on his bed at his mother’s house with a soft smile on his face.

“They’re in here,” Than opens a door and shows Zag the racks of instruments in the storage room. “This used to be the principal bathroom. I think it works better as a guitar room.”

“I can’t believe you have so many,” Zag chuckles. “Where’s the one with the constellations painted on it?”

“She’s right here,” Than walks back into the music room, pointing the camera at the five guitars displayed on the wall. “I like keeping my favourites close by.”

“Will you play for me when I’m there?”

“Of course. I’ll play for you now if you want.” Than toggles the camera to the front facing one, smiling at his messy haired partner. “You look cute in those pyjamas, by the way. Bring them with you?”

Zag laughs. “Am I really gonna need pyjamas at your place?”

“Good point, well made. What should I play?” Than sets his phone on the music stand by the piano.

“I dunno, whatever you want.”

“Alright.” Than crosses the room to grab his Newporter Classic from the wall. “Hmm. Okay.” He takes a deep breath.

“You have my heart, we’ll never be worlds apart, maybe in magazines, but you’ll still be my star,” Than sings, strumming the chords as Zag giggles with delight. “Baby ‘cause in the dark, you can’t see shiny cars, and that’s when you need me there, with you I’ll always share, because…”

Zag joins him for the chorus, jumping up from the bed and crossing his room, opening a drawer in his old desk as he sings. “When the sun shines we’ll shine together, told you I’ll be here forever, said I’ll always be your friend, took an oath I’ma stick it out til the end. Now that it’s raining more than ever, know that we’ll still have each other, you can stand under my umbrella, you can stand under my umbrella…”

They keep going, Than half singing, half giggling as Zag produces a plastic lighter, a hopeful look on his face as he strikes the flint. A flame flares in the low light of his bedroom, flickering gently as Zag moves it carefully from side to side.

Than ends his impromptu performance with a flourish, taking a bow as Zag drops the lighter and his phone, leaning over it to applaud wildly.

“Why do you have a lighter in your room?”

“There was a time when I thought smoking would make me look cool. DIdn’t last long. I would have used my phone flashlight but I couldn’t, obviously.”

“Yeah. People do that at my gigs sometimes. It’s amazing, looking out at thousands of lights all twinkling while we play. You’ll have to come watch sometime.”

“Will I get a front row seat?” Zag smiles, getting into bed and snuggling into the sheets.

“No, you’ll be watching from backstage where I can keep you safe. If you’re lucky you’ll get to hold my towel for me, wipe my sweaty brow before the encore.”

“Sounds amazing,” Zag yawns. “Thanks for the concert, asteri mou. I think I need to crash.”

“Sweet dreams, babe. Message me when you wake up.”

“Will do. Night night.” Zag blows him a kiss.

“Hey. How’s your day going? Sorry I couldn’t talk earlier, I had a meeting with Captain Poseidon. Just got back home.” Zag waves at his mama and dashes up the stairs to his room.

“No worries. How’d the meeting go?” Than asks, closing the lounge door behind him and sitting down on the faded green velvet couch.

“Good. I can take unpaid leave for a while. We set up another meeting in a month to check in and see what’s going on. Where are you?” Zag sits back on the bed, squashing his pillow behind his back.

“I’m at the studio, told everyone to take five. Recording’s going well, we’ll have a rough cut of the album ready in a week or so, then it needs mixing. Great news about the time off, babe. I’d hate it if you lost your job because of me.”

“I know you would. We’re all good. Did you and Hypnos talk to the label yet? About our plan?”

“Meeting’s set up for later this week. I decided I’m not giving them a choice on this one.” Than pushes a hand through his hair, brushing it back from his face.

“What do you mean?”

“We’re gonna be together for real regardless of what they think. If they don’t like Meg’s plan, fine, they can suggest another one. If they threaten to terminate my contract and kill the album, so be it.”

“Than, are you sure?” Zag shifts on the bed, hunching over his phone. “That’s… that’s huge for you.”

“I’m sure. I met with my financial advisor this morning. If they terminate the contract I’ll be fine for money, she invested well over the past few years. Maybe I’ll retrain as an accountant,” Than smirks, his eyes bright and free of concern.

“Don’t do anything hasty, okay? If they’re really not happy, let’s talk about our options first.”

“Alright. Hypnos will be glad you said that. He’s worried.”

“Aren’t you?”

“You know what, I feel strangely fine about the idea. It’s possible another label would want to take a risk and sign me. Even if that didn’t happen, I could set up my own label, or take it easy and share my music online for free. I have options. And I’ll be with you. What more could I want?”

Zag smiles at him, bringing his phone spontaneously to his lips. “Good luck. Will you call me after, even if it’s late?”

“Of course, if you want me to. You alright with me showing them one of the photos of us? Knowing the label, they’ll find this whole thing easier to swallow knowing exactly how hot you are.”

“Sure,” Zag chuckles.

A knock interrupts his laughter. Than looks away and nods at someone, his eyes apologetic when he looks back. “Need to get back to it. Talk later, alright?”

“Call me whenever. Mama and I are making spanakopita for dinner, I’ll think of you when I eat it.”

“I’m jealous. Enjoy.” Than kisses the camera and ends the call.

“You’re at the beach place! You got the keys okay?” Than grins, watching the trailing plants sway in the breeze in the courtyard garden behind Zag’s smiling face.

“Yeah, no problems at all. Only two sets, so I got a few spares made just in case. Gave one to Mama, hope that’s alright.” Zag stands up and starts moving through the garden, shadows playing over his face as he walks inside.

“Course it is. Where you taking me?” Than asks, sitting up against the cool metal headboard of his bed, letting the sheets pool around his waist.

Zag changes direction, walking away from the kitchen. “I was going to show you the plant Mama gave us as a moving in gift, but if you’re gonna sit there with your sexy bed hair and your nipples on show, we’re gonna christen the bed,” Zag winks, propping his phone up and pulling his t-shirt over his head.

“Oh, we are?” Than rolls onto his side and leans his phone against a book on the nightstand. “Don’t you wanna save the christening for when we can do it for real?”

“We can do it again,” Zag replies, disappearing briefly as he takes his shorts off. When he returns he stretches out on the bed and palms his hardening cock. “Get rid of the blankets?”

Than kicks the offending bedclothes out of the way, grinning at the appreciative hum emanating from his phone speaker. He wraps his fingers around his morning erection, teasing the barbell gently, making sure Zag has the best possible view. “Mmm. Wish your hands were all over my cock.”

“Same, asteri mou. Just think how good it’ll be when we’re back together. Pinch your nipple for me. Yeah, like that, again. Feel good?”

“Yeah. Rub your thumb over the head of your cock, Zag. Taste yourself. Fuck, I wish you were in my mouth right now. Stroke yourself harder for me.”

“Oh, Than, I want you. Wish you were fucking me into the mattress.”

“Gonna fuck you so hard, babe. Gonna hold your hips so tight I leave marks.”

Their words blur into moans and sighs, eyes fixed on each other as they unconsciously match the pace of their strokes. Zag comes first, his eyes snapping briefly shut as he spills over his fingers, the low, breathy moan blending with the visual to send Than over the edge himself.

“Damn, I forgot to say kalimera,” Zag grins, reaching for a tissue to clean himself up.

“Ha, kalimera. Watching you come basically guarantees I’m gonna have a good morning, babe.” Than blows his boyfriend a kiss. “I need to get to the studio. Call you later?”

“Yeah. Miss you.”

“I miss you too. Think of me if you decide to christen the other bed,” Than winks.

“Hi,” Zag yawns, struggling upright on the sofa. “Sorry, I fell asleep.”

“It’s two in the morning, I don’t blame you. Just finished the meeting with the label, if you’re awake enough to talk? Charon, Meg and Hypnos are in the car with me.” Than rotates the phone quickly, capturing the smiles and waves being sent in Zag’s direction.

“Yeah, tell me. What happened?”

“It went better than I thought it would,” Than begins.

“The photo of the two of you helped a lot,” Meg interjects from beside him. “You look great together. Something about the height difference and the contrast of your hair and skin, you just look really hot together.”

“Um, thanks I guess?” Zag’s cheeks flush pink.

Than laughs. “You’re so cute when you blush.”

“Save the soppy talk for later, bro,” Hypnos yells from the front seat, his voice borderline jubilant.

“Alright, alright. They’re not super thrilled that I want to come out as bi and introduce the world to my partner, but the situation isn’t entirely unsalvageable, apparently. They approved the plan with a few caveats.”

“Oh, Than, that’s great. I’m so glad you don’t lose your career. What do we need to do?” Zag asks, suppressing a yawn.

“Not so much we as you… They want to meet you. Assuming that goes well, which it will because you’re used to dealing with difficult, entitled assholes, they want you to see a stylist, and they want you media trained. And they want us to do a photo shoot and an interview. I’m sorry, I know it’s a lot. Think about it. Still time to change your mind. Ow! What was that for?” Than yelps as Meg slaps his thigh sharply.

“Stop telling him it’s okay to leave you, you idiot, he’s the best thing that’s happened to you in ages.” Meg grabs Than’s phone, waving jauntily. “Hi Zag. How’s Paros? Where are you?”

“Paros is good and I’m good, Meg. Did Than tell you about the beach place? That’s where I am. It’s strange to be sleeping alone in the house. How’re you?”

“I’m great, happy the label approved the plan. You won’t be alone for long, trust me. This one spends half his time gazing dreamily at nothing and half his time talking to you. If you don’t get your ass out here soon, I’m betting he’ll get on a plane.” Meg pushes Than’s hands away as he tries to retake his phone. “Stop it, Thanatos. Charon, Hypnos, wanna wager?”

“No bet,” Charon rumbles from the driver’s seat. Zag giggles, a fond smile on his face.

“Megaera, let me talk to my boyfriend before he goes to sleep,” Than growls.

“In a second,” she replies, winking at Zag cheekily. “Looking forward to seeing you soon, Zag. Thrilled to see what the stylist does with you.”

Than wrestles his phone back. “You don’t have to change anything if you don’t want to, babe. You’re perfect as you are.” He rolls his eyes as the others erupt into a mixture of cooing and fake vomiting sounds. “I’ll let you sleep. I’ll call you when I wake up tomorrow and we’ll make plans, alright? Sleep well.”

“Have a good evening, Than. Night.”

"Morning Than. Just so you know, Miltos is here, don't get naked." Zag grabs two bottles from the fridge and walks from the kitchen to the garden.

"Okay, okay," Than laughs, primly pulling the sheet up over his chest. "What flavour soda did you get?"

"Cherry, of course. They're waiting for you. Miltos, alright if I go talk to Than quickly before he goes to work?"

"Go for it. Hi Than." Zag turns the phone towards Miltos quickly, just long enough for Than to catch his friendly wave.

"Hey Miltos, good to see you," Than calls as Zag strides away.

"Sorry, asteri mou. Sleep well?" Zag sits at the tiny kitchen table, balancing his phone against a plant pot.

"Yeah, I did. Late night, we stayed up eating pizza and playing games."

"Pizza? You're such a rebel," Zag smiles indulgently.

"Yeah. Eating pizza, telling the label I'm in a relationship with the most wonderful man, I'm breaking all the rules. Can I stop holding this sheet up now? Can control yourself?" Than smirks.

"Ooh, I'll try, go on," Zag winks, watching Than drop the sheet dramatically. "Yum. Quick, let's talk logistics before I get distracted by how gorgeous you are. When should I come? Miltos agreed to bring Mama over once in a while to take care of the plants. I can fly whenever."

"Do you want to wait until I'm done with the album, or are you happy seeing the city on your own while I finish up? If it was my choice I'd have you here as soon as possible, but I'm gonna be stuck in the studio for a little longer."

"I'm happy being a tourist on my own while I still can. I'll have you in the evenings, right?" Zag raises his eyebrows hopefully.

"You can have me as many times as you like in the mornings and the evenings," Than smirks. "How about I send a jet for you tomorrow?"

"I want to fly on a normal plane. I've never flown before, I wanna do all the airport stuff too. Don't frown at me, asteri mou. I want to have the whole experience."

"Alright, I get it. But I'm getting you a first class ticket. I want you as well rested as possible when you get here. It'll be a long flight, if not two flights."

"Thank you," Zag says quietly. "I really can't wait to see you."

"Same, babe. I heard you're speaking to someone from the label later, let me know if I can help."

"Thanks. It's only a short call, I'm just gonna pretend they're difficult clients."

"Good plan. Hey, can I ask you something?"

"Always."

"I was thinking. Do you… would you want to stop using condoms at some point? Since we… since we're together, and we’re committed?" Than bites his lip nervously.

"I've never had sex without a condom. Hadn't really thought about it, to be honest," Zag frowns.

"No pressure. I was just thinking. I've always used them too, happy to keep using them."

Zag glances out towards the garden. "Whew. Just started thinking about how it'd feel if you came inside me without one, and… yeah. Let's get tested, and if we're all clear, we’ll stop?"

"Sounds good. My doctor's discreet, she can do it sometime when you're here."

"Can we talk about something else? You're half naked and now I'm thinking about you coming inside me. I don't want to be horny when Miltos is here." Zag flushes, pretending to wipe sweat from his brow.

Than laughs, pulling the sheet back up over his nipples. "Okay, sorry. I'll send you flight info as soon as I have it. Guessing you don't have a preference on airline or route? No worries, one of the assistants will sort you out. Just send me your passport details."

"Will do. I better get back to Miltos. Talk later, yeah?"

"Talk later, babe. Have a good afternoon. Good luck with the label."

"Hey. How'd it go?" Than closes the lounge door and perches on the green couch.

"It was fine. They asked me some questions about my past, seemed particularly interested in what might be online. Most of their questions were pretty tame, actually, as if they just wanted to get me talking." Zag pours the last of a bottle of red wine into his glass and carries it out into the garden.

"Yeah, they were probably trying to gauge if you'll interview well, see how strong your accent is. When I mentioned you’re Greek that was their first question."

Zag laughs. "My accent isn't too strong, is it?"

"Not at all. Your accent is perfect," Than smiles.

"Benefits of learning English from a British teacher, I guess. They asked me to start locking down my social media accounts, said they'd set up time with a specialist when I get to New York. Makes sense."

"Yeah. Once the press learns your name, everyone will start looking for you. Gotta be careful about what they find. I'd prefer your karaoke videos don't make it onto the news."

"Is my singing that bad?" Zag chuckles, taking a sip from his glass.

"Not at all. Just a memory I'd prefer to keep private. You okay with the itinerary? I'm sorry you have to take three flights, but that's the downside of booking commercial last minute. Means we won't talk before I see you tomorrow evening."

"Yeah, it's fine, I'm kinda excited. I've always taken the ferry to Athens, so flying there will be new. And then flying via London! I wish I could leave the airport, I'd love to see the city. Thanks again for the first class seat, you really spoil me."

"I'll take you to London someday," Than reaches for a bottle of water from the mini fridge in the corner. "And you deserve to be spoilt."

"When you say things like that, you make me want to throw myself at you," Zag smiles, his eyes soft and warm.

"You can throw yourself at me whenever you like. I'll always catch you," Than replies, gulping down his water thirstily. "I'm gonna come get you at the airport, okay?"

"Is that safe?"

"If we're careful it should be fine. Charon's renting me a car with tinted windows, and I'll wait for you in the parking lot. I'll message you with the exact location when I get there."

"Park somewhere quiet so I can throw myself at you as soon as I see you," Zag winks.

"I'll try. JFK is a pretty busy airport, you might have to wait til we're home. What are you grinning about?"

"The idea of going home with you. Can't wait to see your place for real."

"I can't wait to make you come in every room of my apartment," Than smirks.

"I dunno if I'll be able to wait. Maybe you'll have to make me come in the car."

"So competitive, Zag. Maybe you should get yourself ready for me on the plane so I can fuck you in the car. Meet you in the backseat."

"Not sure I can top that, Than."

"You can top me tomorrow night."

Zag visibly shivers. "Horny much, asteri mou?"

"Yeah. I just can't stop thinking about how soon I'm gonna see you. I miss you so much, you know? And not just because I'm hot for you. Every day, a thousand things happen that I want to tell you about, but we get so little time to talk. Starting tomorrow, we get to experience the thousand things together. I can't wait."

"Awww. You're the perfect blend of horny and romantic. Go channel that into whatever song you're recording today."

"I will. Travel safely, babe. Don't forget to drink tons of water and sleep as much as you can on the flight from London. Oh, and drinking hits you harder in the air, take it easy on the free champagne."

"Free champagne?" Zag's eyes light up.

"Yeah, perks of first class."

"Thank you so much for spoiling me. Can't wait to thank you in person."

"No thanks needed. Message me before you take off, okay? See you very soon."

"See you soon, Than. Enjoy the rest of your day."

Chapter Text

Than sits in the driver's seat of the generic black sedan, watching the list of arrivals update on his phone. Zag's flight is due in any minute now, which means that he should see the message about where to find him soon enough. 

He shifts in the leather seat, restless with excitement. He and Zag may only have been apart for a few weeks, but he feels like it's been forever since that last kiss. His lips tingle as he imagines the softness of Zag's lips beneath his, replaying the sweetness of their last kiss again and again. 

There's a thread of fear simmering below his excitement, glimpses of sickly yellow beneath a sparkling silver surface. Their entire relationship has played out on Zag's home turf so far, and Than can't help but worry about what will happen when Zag explodes into his world. Not just the big bang of their announcement, but the smaller impacts; sharing his apartment, living within the constraints of fame; the shallow friendships Zag will inevitably compare to his friendships with Angelina, Evgenis and Miltos. 

He hopes they survive what lies ahead. He hopes they thrive through what lies ahead, that the challenges they face together will bind them more tightly together, whatever happens, whatever the cost. They've been dancing around the words, and Than hopes that the next few weeks gives them both the confidence to say them, safe in the knowledge that what they have will endure. 

His phone vibrates in his hand. 

Landed and connected to airport wifi! 
Little bit drunk, you were right about the champagne
🥂
17:57

Did you get my message about where to meet me?
I'm ready, waiting for you 😘
17:57

Than watches his phone, observing Zag start and stop typing several times. 

Yeah, got it
Sorry, walking, following the sighs
I'm ready waiting for you too 😉
18:05

See you soon, babe
Don't rush, I'll be here xx
18:05

Than smiles at Zag's tipsy typos, his worries eclipsed by the excitement of knowing that he'll be kissing him hello within the hour. He wants to get out of the car, wait for Zag closer to the terminal building or at least stand by the car. If he hadn't promised Charon he'd stay safely behind the tinted glass, he would take the risk.

He leaves his phone on his thigh in case Zag needs him and watches out of the window. With any luck Zag's bags will be first at the reclaim, another first class privilege Than finds himself grateful for. 

Twenty minutes later, a messy haired man shuffles into the car park, looking around in the sodium yellow lighting. Than honks the horn, delighted to see the gigantic smile that snaps onto Zag's face at the sound, his body orienting towards the car and his steps speeding up. He's wearing relaxed fit dark jeans and a collared shirt, presumably feeling he had to dress up to fit into the first class cabin. He looks tired, his steps less relaxed than usual and his face a little tight. 

He's the most beautiful thing Than has ever seen. 

Than risks lowering the window just a little. "Hey. Welcome to New York." 

Zag virtually runs towards him, tilting his head and kissing Than full on the lips through the gap. "God, I missed you."

Than laughs. "Get in the car and kiss me properly." 

Zag throws his backpack and holdall in the back and does what he's told. The second the passenger door slams shut, Than locks the doors and pulls Zag towards him, hugging him as best he can as their lips meet. The kiss deepens and heats almost immediately, their tongues brushing together with a predictable eagerness. 

"Mmm. Let's go home," Than growls, his voice already rough. 

"Sounds good to me," Zag replies, his face slightly dazed. 

Than snaps his seatbelt into place and puts the car into drive, deliberately trying to keep his eyes away from Zag sitting beside him. "How were your flights? You tired?"

"Oh, Than, the flight from London was amazing. The one from Paros to Athens was really short, and the one to London was pretty good, but compared to the one to New York… they served food on these tiny little plates and they refilled my champagne glass all the time. I had to ask them to stop," Zag grins. "And the seat turned into a flat bed! I had a good nap. I bought you a present at the airport. I don't know if you'll like it." 

"Oh yeah?" Than glances over at his boyfriend, excitedly shifting in his seat, one second looking at Than and the next glancing out of the window. 

"Yeah. It's a Toblerone." 

"The triangular chocolate?" 

"Yeah. When I was at school, the kids who flew out of Greece for their holidays always brought Toblerone back from the airport to share. I thought you might like it."

"That's sweet of you. Thank you." 

"I was going to buy you some cologne but I don't know which one you wear. I smelled a few but I didn't find one that smells like you," Zag rolls his eyes apologetically.

"You remember the scent of my cologne?" Than asks, surprised.

"Yeah, course. You actually left a t-shirt behind at the villa, I found it when I was checking out. It smells of you. I might have been cuddling it in bed since you left.”

A flash of warmth and sweetness floods Than's throat, and he can't help reaching over to squeeze Zag's thigh. "That is so cute and I don't deserve you." 

"You absolutely do," Zag smiles brightly, putting his hand over Than's and squeezing gently. "We deserve each other." 

"I can't wait to kiss you properly when we get home," Than murmurs, putting his hand back on the steering wheel. Zag wiggles happily in his seat, a vague smile on his face. "You uncomfortable, babe? You can adjust the seat if you want."

"Not uncomfortable, just… you know," Zag winks. 

Than frowns. "I don't think I do." 

Zag's smile turns sultry. "We talked about it. An hour before the last flight landed, I went to the bathroom and got myself ready for you. I've been kinda excited ever since." 

Heat blooms immediately in Than's belly. "Hold on. Are you saying you touched yourself on the plane thinking about me?" 

Zag sighs indulgently. "Oh, my sweet, innocent Thanatos. Not quite. Yeah, I loosened myself up a little. But what I'm actually saying is that I have a small plug inside me so I'm ready to take you whenever you want me."

It's an effort to keep his attention on the road ahead. "You… right now?" 

"Yup," Zag grins, wiggling a little more. "Condoms in my pocket too. Ready for anything."

Than drives on in silence, trying to gather his scattered thoughts enough to think of a place quiet and dark enough where they can park undisturbed. 

"Than? Are you upset?" Zag's voice is soft and hesitant. 

"Oh god no, I'm… I'm pretty turned on, actually. Trying to think of somewhere we can stop. If I'm not buried inside you in the next ten minutes, I'll be upset." 

"I'm guessing your place is further than ten minutes?" 

"Yeah. Okay, I think there's a parking lot under an overpass nearby. Should be quiet, and it's dark enough that we should be okay." Than signals and turns right off the road. 

"We're really doing this?" Zag squeaks, his voice full of thrilled excitement. 

"You want to?" Than glances over, his desire entirely dependent on Zag's comfort. 

"Fuck, yes. We'll need to be quick. And quiet." 

"Quiet will be more of a problem for you than for me," Than smirks. 

"You'll just have to fuck me with your hand over my mouth then, won't you?" Zag replies sweetly. 

"Zagreus, you are…" Than shakes his head playfully, turning into the parking lot and heading towards the back. 

"Adorable? Gorgeous? The best boyfriend ever?" Zag supplies, unbuckling his belt as Than parks smoothly between two large pickup trucks. 

"I was going to say a deadbeat, but you're also all those things." Than turns the engine off, pushing the driver's seat back as far as it will go. "Come here." 

"Hard and fast, right?" Zag breathes, handing Than a condom and ripping the fly of his jeans open. "Put that on." 

"Yes, sir," Than grins, tugging his cock out of his pants as Zag clambers between his legs, facing away from him. He strokes himself fully hard and rolls the condom on quickly, steadying Zag's hips and helping him tug his jeans down just below his shapely ass. "Where should I put the plug?"

"Here," Zag says, taking a satin bag from his pocket. "I'll wash it later."

"It turns me on so much that you did this for me," Than murmurs, running his fingers over Zag's backside. "I wish I could see your face."

Zag flips down the sunvisor, popping the small mirror open as he wriggles in Than's lap. "That's as good as you get for now. Fuck me." 

Than trails his fingers between Zag's cheeks, finding the warm silicone base of the plug and pulling gently, his cock twitching at the gasp that falls from Zag's lips as he thrusts it carefully in and out. "Be quiet, babe."

"Make me," Zag murmurs, groaning as Than pulls the plug out and drops it into the bag. 

Than lines himself up with one hand, pressing the other firmly over Zag's mouth. He pulls him down sharply, biting his lip as his cock pushes inside, the feeling so familiar and yet at the same time thrillingly new in this position, in this setting. 

Zag's moans are muffled by Than's hand as he tenses his thighs, dragging himself up and down the thick cock stuffed inside him. Than pushes his hips up as Zag slides down, his other hand reaching to wrap around his cock, stroking him firmly as he moves. 

"You're so fucking tight, Zag," he growls into his ear, his eyes meeting Zag's in the tiny mirror. "God, I can't believe we're doing this." 

Zag keens, the sound muted and stifled by Than's palm, his cock already throbbing and leaking in his hand. He lifts and drops his hips faster, thighs trembling as he takes Than's cock inside himself again and again. They move together sharply, the silent interior of the car filled with the sound of skin slapping on skin and Zag's muffled moans. 

Five minutes pass by in a flash, pleasure coiling between Than's thighs as Zag writhes on top of him, fucking him enthusiastically, seemingly even more turned on by the unrelenting pressure of Than's palm against his lips.

"Fuck, I'm gonna come," Than whispers. "You close?"

Zag nods frantically, his eyes wild in the mirror. Than grips his mouth harder, pushing his hips up to meet Zag's motions, pumping his cock fast and hard in his hand.

A few minutes later pleasure explodes in his core as he comes, pulling his boyfriend down and grinding inside him. He watches Zag's eyes roll back as he comes messily over Than's fingers, his body tightening around his cock as he reaches his own climax. 

Than peels his hand from Zag's mouth and presses a kiss against his clammy cheek. "You're incredible."

"Mm, you're incredible," Zag murmurs, grabbing a few tissues from the box in the centre console and cleaning himself up quickly. "I'm gonna move, okay?" 

"Yeah," Than growls, holding the condom as Zag lifts himself upwards, pulling his underwear and jeans back over his ass. 

He wraps the condom and wipes himself off as Zag throws himself back into the passenger seat, a satisfied smirk on his flushed lips. "That was so hot." 

"Mmm," Than agrees, crushing the tissues into a ball and dropping them by his feet to tidy later. "Ready to go?" 

"Not quite," Zag says, leaning across to kiss him, deep and sweet, his hand cupping Than's jaw tenderly. "Okay, now I am. Let's go." 

Than flips the sunvisor closed and opens the window just enough to let the cool evening breeze dispel the scent of sex that hangs heavy in the air. He turns the engine back on and reverses out, turning the car around and navigating them back to the road. "Probably twenty minutes to my place from here, if the traffic isn't too bad. I gave Dusa the evening off, thought you might appreciate settling in without the pressure of needing to meet someone new when you're tired. I'll cook tonight."

"Always happy to eat your cooking. Where does she live?" 

"She has her own wing, completely self contained. Everything's soundproofed for privacy, don't worry." 

"I wasn't worried," Zag yawns. 

"Tired?" Than asks, glancing over at Zag's face, his olive skin tinted yellow by the streetlights outside. "You somehow look exhausted and excited at the same time." 

"Good car sex will do that to a jetlagged man," Zag grins sleepily. "Or so my limited experience tells me. I'll be fine. Just don't expect great conversation tonight."

"No expectations here," Than smiles, breathing a sigh of relief as they cross the bridge into Manhattan. Nearly home. "You already shattered all my expectations with the car sex anyway."

"Hot, right?" Zag chuckles. "You know what else was surprisingly hot? Your hand over my mouth. I could be into you being rough with me."

"Mmm, me too. But let's save the kink negotiation for when you're more awake, alright?" 

"Sure thing. Nearly home?" 

"Yeah. SoHo's just up ahead." 

"That's the area you live in? I don't know anything about New York except what I've seen on TV." 

"I'll give you the basics in the morning. I told everyone I couldn't make it to the studio until early afternoon tomorrow, so we get the morning together." 

"Aww. Thanks, asteri mou." 

"You're welcome, babe." 

They lapse into silence as Than navigates the city streets, Zag gazing out of the window at the buildings and the people flashing past. Than wonders how he feels about New York, so different to Athens with its skyscrapers and tightly packed streets. He wishes he could take Zag around the city, show him all the tourist stuff as well as his own favourite spots. 

Eventually they turn into the underground lot beneath Than's apartment building, the automated barrier rising when Than waves his phone in front of the secure reader. Zag watches curiously, his eyebrows raising at the high end vehicles parked in neat rows in the surprisingly large basement. 

"Lots of rich people live here, huh?" he murmurs as Than parks the rental car in a numbered space close to the elevators. 

"Yup," Than replies, anxiety rising in his belly as he imagines Zag's reaction to the penthouse. 

He double checks that the coast is clear before he hops out of the car, grabbing the holdall and backpack from the back seat. Zag follows closely as they walk the short distance to the elevators, riding in silence to the top floor and the foyer that leads to Than's penthouse apartment. Zag remains silent when Than unlocks the front door and leads him into the bright white entrance hall. 

"Say something?" Than asks, nerves churning in his stomach as he ushers Zag towards the living room. 

"Sorry, just trying to take everything in," Zag smiles apologetically. "Everything's fine, promise." 

Than puts Zag's stuff on the parquet floor, his stomach still flipping erratically. He tries his best to curve his lips into a gentle smile, worried that he's unintentionally grimacing. "You promised me a Toblerone?" 

Zag stoops to open his backpack, handing him a gold triangular tube and a bottle of champagne, an easy smile on his face. "I told the cabin crew I was travelling to see my boyfriend and that I couldn't wait to get to New York because I missed him so much. They gave me this so we could toast our reunion together in style. Obviously I didn't mention that my boyfriend could easily afford to bathe in champagne, but it's still sweet, right?" 

Than takes the bottle, leaning in to kiss Zag's forehead. "Very sweet. Let's chill it, maybe we can toast our reunion later. What would you like for dinner?" 

Zag follows him through to the kitchen, his eyes wide as he takes in the polished countertops and the high end appliances. "Wow, gorgeous kitchen. I dunno, my stomach doesn't know what timezone it's in. Something simple?" 

"Steak and salad?" Than asks, rummaging through the provisions in the fridge. 

"Sounds great." Zag walks up behind him and wraps his arms around his waist, peering over his shoulder at the fridge's contents. "Your fridge is gigantic. Are those strawberries real? Why are they so big?"

"Welcome to America," Than grins. "Everything's huge here." 

"Oh, I know." Zag drops to his hand to cup Than's crotch, burying his laughter in the back of his shoulder. 

Than laughs, taking the strawberries out of the fridge and placing them next to the steak and the bag of salad leaves. "Flattery will get you everywhere, babe. Sit down, relax. Eat first, maybe bathe together, bed?" 

"I could eat. A bath sounds amazing, I feel all kinds of sticky and grubby right now." Zag takes a seat at the breakfast bar, his chin propped up on his palm. "Getting wet and slippery with you is a bonus too, of course." 

"You want to bathe first?" Than turns around to look at him, slumped over the breakfast bar, beautiful despite his exhaustion. 

"Nah, we both know the bath will turn into sex, sex will turn into sleep, and then I'll wake up with an empty belly in the middle of the night. Food, bath, sex, sleep, if that's alright with you." 

"Okay." Than turns back to the counter, taking the steaks from their paper packaging and seasoning them well. 

Fifteen minutes later, he slides a plate in front of his sleepy partner, climbing up into a bar stool beside him and attacking the steak with gusto. They eat and chat, demolishing the juicy steaks and the piles of dressed leaves. When their plates are clear, he pulls the bowl of strawberries towards them, feeding the bright red fruit to Zag with a smile. He smiles softly back, a hand draped over Than's thigh, presumably thinking back to the last time they ate strawberries together. 

Zag lets out a low whistle when he sees the ensuite bathroom with its open shower and oversized tub. 

"You like?" Than asks, turning the tap on and throwing a handful of bath salts into the rushing water. "No bath foam, sorry, I use salts to relax my muscles after I work out. We can get some if you like." 

"I'm easy," Zag shrugs, ambling over to tug Than's t-shirt upwards. "Other things on my mind right now." 

"Oh yeah?" Than smirks, working his way down the column of buttons running down Zag's chest. 

"Yeah," Zag stretches up to kiss him, soft and sweet, his lips tasting faintly of strawberries. 

Zag nearly moans when he steps into the hot water, settling between Than's legs and letting his head droop back into his shoulder. 

"Good?" Than whispers, his lips moving gently against Zag's temple. 

"Mmm, so good. This bath is amazing," Zag mumbles, turning to kiss Than's shoulder. 

"Can I wash your hair?" Than asks, cuddling his loose limbed lover into his chest. 

"That would be absolutely lovely, given how lazy I'm feeling right now," Zag sighs. 

Than chuckles, sitting Zag up and scooping handfuls of water over his head until his dark hair is dripping wet. He squeezes a little shampoo into his palm, rubbing it artlessly into Zag's hair, digging his fingers into his scalp and massaging as best he can. Zag sighs again, his shoulders sinking as he relaxes into Than's care. 

When all the suds are washed away, Than pulls him back, tilting his head to mouth at his neck, pressing open mouthed kisses over Zag's damp skin. His partner moans softly, his entire body relaxed and pliant. Than slips a hand beneath the water, stroking his fingers slowly up Zag's thigh, moving slowly and gently, enjoying the feeling of his skin. 

Zag lets out a tiny piggy snore. 

Than suppresses the delighted laughter that bubbles up his throat. He pauses his stroking, waiting until Zag snores again, cuddling him closer and bending to whisper in his ear. "Zag, you're snoring like an adorable pig again."

"Am not," Zag mumbles, turning in Than's arms and pressing his face into his throat. Than cradles him quietly. Sure enough, another snore erupts from his mouth. Zag startles, sitting up and yawning. "Sorry."

"Let's get you to bed, babe," Than murmurs, his chest full to bursting with the simple pleasure of caring for the man he loves. 

"I'm awake," Zag insists, kissing Than softly, his lips lingering too long as he slips back towards sleep. 

"You are not, and it's totally understandable," Than replies, bundling Zag in his arms and standing, setting him down on the bath mat carefully. He follows him out of the water, letting him lean against him as he dries them off thoroughly, rubbing the towel over Zag's wet hair until it's merely damp. "Come on, bed." 

"But…" Zag protests. 

"There's no way we're having sex tonight, babe. I prefer fucking you when you're awake," Than explains patiently. 

Zag pouts blurrily. "How do you know when you haven't tried?" 

Than lifts him, holding him tight against his chest as he carries him the short distance to the bed. He lays Zag down in the crisp white sheets, settling down beside him and smiling as Zag drapes himself over his chest. 

"Sleep, babe," he murmurs. It's far too early in the evening for him to sleep, but he's beyond content to lie awake in the low light, the love of his life safe and dreaming in his arms. 

Chapter Text

For a moment, Zag isn't quite sure where he is. He peels his eyes open, blinking owlishly in the dim light, fuzzily aware that the space is larger than the bedroom at the beach house and his room at home combined. The sheets feel cool and silky against his skin, and the mattress is the most comfortable thing he's ever slept upon. It's better than the VIP cabin in the yacht, even, cushioning and cradling his body with the perfect balance of softness and firmness.

He rolls over, following the subtle thread of scent tinting the air to find Than facing away from him on his side, fast asleep. Zag smiles, reaching out to stroke strands of platinum hair laid over the pillow like artfully draped silk. Than doesn't so much as sigh, so deep is his slumber.

Zag watches him sleep for a few more precious minutes, keeping his own breathing shallow to better hear the slow, even cadence of Than's breath. He's obviously still deep in his dreams, and as much as Zag would like nothing more than to kiss him awake, he can't bear to rob his beloved of rest.

Sneaking out of bed is a slow process. Zag pauses often, glancing back at Than's sleeping form to make sure his movements don't disturb him. He creeps towards a door in the corner of the room, pushing it open to find a walk-in closet. A rack of meticulously pressed shirts faces another of pants, everything from jeans to leather. The colour palette is unsurprising, varying shades of black and grey with the occasional flash of blackened jewel tone.

Zag opens the drawers one by one until he finds the loungewear. He pulls a soft grey cotton t-shirt over his head and steps into a pair of overlong sweatpants, giggling to himself at the baggy fit. It feels good, wearing Than's clothes. He feels small and delicate in them, because of their size. He feels a fizzing warmth in his belly, a kind of thoughtless familiarity that's entirely new. He remembers the discussion with Angelina and Evgeny about binding their lives together again and again; waking up in Than's apartment in New York and stealing his clothes feels like another bond forged between them.

It occurs to him that up until now, he's been holding back a little, concerned that despite Than's reassurances, their relationship still bore more resemblance to a holiday romance than to a genuine partnership. Now he's here, wearing Than's clothes, after Than picked him up from the airport and cooked dinner for him… it's the kind of stuff Zag imagines a proper couple would do. Their relationship feels more real, now it's transitioned into Than's world. In a few days, they'll be able to do things like go out for dinner together, like real couples do without even thinking about it.

And in a few days they'll be tested in a way most couples don't need to worry about. Zag chooses to push that thought from his mind, focusing instead on finding his way out of the bedroom. He closes the door softly behind him, wondering if he can find his way around the kitchen well enough to make Than breakfast in bed before he goes to the studio. He imagines real couples do that all the time, too.

A small woman with green tipped locs piled on top of her head bounces around the kitchen, humming to herself brightly.

"Morning! You must be Dusa," Zag says, wincing as she drops a plate with a tiny shriek. It shatters, fragments skittering across the smooth floor around them. "Oh god, I'm so sorry, let me help you."

"It's okay!" she yelps, bending to retrieve the pieces by her sock clad feet. "I've got it! You're Zagreus, right?"

"Yeah," he replies, piling shards into his palm. "I'm sorry I startled you. I wasn't expecting anyone to be in the kitchen this early, but I guess I don't know your routine, so…"

Dusa opens a gleaming white cupboard door, dumping her handful into the bin and gesturing for Zag to do the same. "I'm an early riser. Did you want some breakfast, Mister Zagreus?"

"Call me Zag. I was wondering if I could make Than breakfast in bed, actually."

"Oh!" Dusa claps her hands in delight. "Of course, how romantic. What would you like to make, Mister Zag?"

Half an hour later, Zag and Dusa giggle together as Zag drizzles maple syrup on top of three sugar dusted wedges of French toast surrounded by strawberries cut into hearts. He wouldn't go as far as to suggest they're friends already, but Dusa's shoulders have loosened, and she even met his eyes with an approving smile when he flipped the toast expertly out of the frying pan.

He places the plate on an elegant polished oak tray, between a glass of orange juice and two cups of coffee. "Thanks, Dusa! Appreciate all the help."

"Oh, I hardly did anything. Hope Mister Thanatos enjoys his breakfast," she smiles, giving him a little wave as he walks out of the kitchen.

Zag opens the bedroom door quietly and shuffles inside.

"Zag?" Than mumbles, rolling onto his back and yawning. "How long have you been up?"

He places the tray carefully on the ottoman at the end of the bed. "A while, asteri mou. Made you breakfast. Dusa's nice."

"Oh, you met?" Than sits up, patting the bed beside him. "Why didn't you wake me?"

"Thank you for breakfast, Zagreus, you're the best boyfriend a man could want," Zag trills, rolling his eyes as he grabs the tray and sits down cross legged beside Than, his body sinking into the airy bedding.

"Thank you, babe," Than smiles, leaning across to press a chaste kiss against Zag's cheek. He takes the tray, humming appreciatively as the warm, sugary scent of the French toast hits him.

They take their time feeding each other bites of fluffy, egg enriched bread, kissing smudges of maple syrup from each other's mouths at every opportunity and sharing the strawberries between them. Once the plate is clear, Than gets up to use the bathroom, giving Zag a glorious view of his naked ass as he walks to the ensuite.

“I like seeing you in my clothes,” he murmurs when he returns, fingers gripping the hem of Zag’s stolen t-shirt. “But I still prefer you naked.”

Things escalate from there. Than's body feels wonderful against his, the physical pleasure heightened by the way his amber eyes turn liquid as their bodies come together with a languid intensity. He takes Zag's hands, tangling their fingers as he starts to lift and drop his hips, the connection between them deepening in every possible way as they climb together.

I love you. The words cling in Zag's throat. He still doesn't want to utter them for the first time in the throes of passion. He wants to present them to Than like a gift, to watch his face light up with the purest kind of delight. For him to whisper them back with such reverence that Zag knows the words come from the depths of his heart and not some other part of his body.

Zag bites his lip to hold the words back as they come together. He keeps his eyes open, holding Than’s molten gaze as fireworks explode through his body, a thousand sparkles in every colour imaginable to match the emotions throbbing in his heart.

Later, it feels all kinds of wonderfully domestic to wave Than off at the front door.

He leaves the apartment building half an hour later, walking confidently past the doorman as Than instructed with a curt nod. He stifles a gasp as he steps outside onto the pavement - sidewalk, he supposes - the air pleasantly cool on his face. The buildings rise up around him, allowing only the smallest glimpses of sky above and between their shining glass facades. He wonders how many people live or work in each one, trying to estimate how many people call New York City home. If Athens' population is three million, there must surely be three times as many people here at least.

He sets off, dodging the people walking with purposeful speed and smiling at everyone. He stops when he catches a muttered "whaddaya grinning at, creep", his surprised shock quickly replaced with excitement as he spies a pretzel cart at the corner.

The city is a delight for pedestrians, the roads laid out with reassuring predictability, so much so that he only looks at his printed guide book every few blocks to make sure he's heading in the right direction. He stops for coffee at a deli in Greenwich Village, drinking it as he ambles past bars, restaurants and theatres festooned with Pride flags. He stops for a few minutes in Union Square to watch a leisurely game of chess unfold between two old men, eventually drifting off for a break on a bench. He watches the traffic, wincing at the daredevil cyclists and taking in the sea of yellow taxis crawling down the street. The traffic is surprisingly slow for the middle of the day, the air a cacophony of impatient honking.

The line for the Empire State Building is too long for his rumbling stomach to handle, so he passes by, vowing to return soon. He glances back over his shoulder as he walks away, admiring how the building rises majestically into the air, trying to imagine how incongruous it must have been in the city in the 1930s when it was first built.

Soon enough, a window advertising $1 pizza attracts his attention. He buys a huge floppy slice so hot and greasy that oil nearly soaks through the cheap paper plate it's served on. He carries his slice to a set of bright red bleachers at the end of Times Square, munching happily as he takes in the view, hundreds of digital billboards vying for his attention.

Zag's feet are starting to ache by the time he reaches Central Park. He trudges on, wanting to see at least a little bit of the famous park before he gives up and heads back to Than's. He settles on a bench beside a spectacularly beautiful pond, watching a few ducks glide effortlessly across the glassy surface. The trees dotted around the meandering perimeter are just starting to turn, some of the whispering leaves the same amber as Than's eyes. A whimsical grey stone bridge crosses the water, creating a scene so beautiful Zag isn't surprised it ends up in so many movies.

He takes a deep breath, enjoying the fresh grassy air in his lungs. It's incredible, this park, set in the middle of the frenetic city like an oasis of calm. He could almost forget he's even in a city, if it weren't for the looming skyscrapers, held back by the stone walls that guard the perimeter. He pulls his guide book from the backpack at his feet, flipping the shiny pages to the map of Central Park, marvelling at how big it is. His finger traces the path that leads to Bethesda Fountain, wondering if Than would consider running through the park with him one morning. Another thing real couples do, running together in the dawn light before the day begins.

A sudden yawn nearly splits his face in two. Coffee. He needs more coffee. He pushes himself from the bench, slinging his bag over his shoulders and walking slowly over the bridge.

The walk takes much, much longer on the way back. Zag stops a few times, buying cheap coffee from one of the food carts he finds along the way. Eventually he drags himself back to Soho, walking into Than's apartment building and flashing the key Than gave him at the doorman. He still feels out of place in the grandiose building, as if he's too scruffy to even set foot on the polished marble floors.

Than's apartment is a little less ostentatious, at least. He drops his backpack by one of the couches, somehow intuitively aware that Than isn't home. He desperately needs a glass of water, but another yawn overtakes him, the fuzzy lethargy he's been fighting all afternoon becoming a dense fog that's increasingly hard to push through. He sits down, leaning back against the soft cushions, promising himself just five minutes of rest.

”Wake up, babe."

Zag snaps awake, squinting against the soft light. His eyes feel gritty, his head fuzzier than he thought was possible. Than leans over him, his fingers stroking gently through his hair. Zag smiles woozily up at him, his brain taking a few extra seconds to note the sweat soaked tank top that clings to his chest.

"How long have you been home?" he mumbles.

"Just over an hour," Than says, his fingers still stroking the wayward curls as if he alone can tame them. "You looked like you needed a nap, so I figured I'd squeeze in a quick workout. Want some coffee?"

"Yeah, please," Zag yawns, rolling himself upright and pulling Than in for a kiss.

They walk hand in hand to the kitchen, Dusa slipping discreetly away once she ascertains that Than wants to make the coffee himself. Zag leans against the counter, watching Than grind some aromatic beans before he flicks the high end espresso machine into life, pressing the ground coffee into the portafilter expertly.

"How was your day?" Than asks, glancing over as the heavenly nectar starts to flow into a white espresso cup.

"Good! I walked all the way up to Central Park, stopped off at a few places on the way. Ate a slice of pizza in Times Square on the bleachers." Zag inhales deeply, the lethargy dimming a little as the scent of fresh coffee fills his nostrils. "The line for the Empire State Building was insane. I'll go back some other time."

"They have an express ticket, right? Just espresso, or want me to steam you some milk?"

"Espresso's perfect, I need the caffeine in me as quickly as possible," Zag replies, taking the cup and blowing on the surface. "The express ticket was really expensive. I'll go back another time."

"About that," Than says, reaching into his pocket. "This is for you." He puts something down on the counter between them, sliding it over to Zag.

Zag throws the espresso back before he glances down at the polished surface. A black credit card sits a few centimetres from Than's fingers. A black credit card with Zag's name on it.

"What's this?" he asks coolly, his stomach clenching uneasily.

"A credit card. So you can enjoy your time in New York. Plus I figured you'd need a way to pay for whatever the stylist tells you to buy tomorrow."

"Than…" Zag swallows guiltily. "This makes me feel really uncomfortable."

"Why?" Than asks, his voice tentative and small. "I have a lot of money–"

"I know," Zag snaps, his fatigue morphing into grumpiness. He knows Than means well, but he can't stop himself from being annoyed.

Than baulks, his eyes widening. "I just want to take care of you. I just…"

"I need to be in control of something," Zag bites out, grumpiness shifting into irritation, coursing hot and sharp through his veins.

"Okay. I'm sorry," Than whispers, his eyes fixed blankly on the floor. He covers the card with his hand as if he's trying to hide it, sliding it back towards himself on the counter. "Forget it."

Contrition catches in Zag's chest. He sighs, his shoulders tight. "We need to talk about this. We can't just pretend it didn't happen."

Than glances up him, his eyes full of fear. He bites his lip as if he has no idea what to say.

"I need you to understand. Everything is changingright now," Zag continues. "Everything's changing because I'm choosing to be with you. I don't regret that choice at all. But I need to count on myself for at least some of the things in my life. I don't want you to do everything for me."

"I'm a lot, I know," Than gulps helplessly. "You can always–"

"Thanatos," Zag says, his tone far more severe than he intends. "I need you to stop reminding me I can walk away. I don't want to walk away. It's not an option for me. It upsets me that it's an option for you."

They stare at each other, discomfort radiating from both of them in the silence. Than's eyes fill with tears, his panic nearly palpable. Zag's stomach twists, his irritation easing, replaced by a sick guilt that expands to fill his whole body.

He's about to apologise when Than falls to his knees in front of him, wrapping his arms around his waist and burying his face into his stomach. "Don't leave me, Zag. It's not an option for me either. I just… I feel guilty. I come with so much baggage. Dragging you into this world with me. I'm sorry about the credit card. I should have discussed it with you first. Don't be mad at me. Please."

Zag strokes Than's hair, his heart filling with regret. "I'm sorry too. I didn't need to snap at you. I'm just tired of you offering me a choice like you believe I could walk away. And the money… I'm already worried people will call me a golddigger. I don't want to take advantage of you."

"You aren't. I'd give you everything." Than's voice is muffled, his arms still tight around Zag's waist. "Because I love you."

Zag's fingers freeze in Than's hair, his stomach hollowing. "What?"

Than looks up at him, his amber eyes awash with tears. "I love you."

Zag laughs shakily. "This isn't how I imagined us saying those words for the first time, Than."

"I'm sorry," Than whispers, a single tear rolling down his cheek.

"It's okay." Zag brushes it away with a gentle fingertip. "It's okay for us to argue, it's okay for us to disagree. Couples don't agree on everything. If we're going to love each other and grow together, we have to work on our relationship. Argue well, sort things out."

Than nods slowly, clearly uncomfortable with the tension between them.

"Tell me you love me again when you're not panicking and afraid, please?” Zag takes a deep breath, letting the love in his heart wash everything else away. “I love you too. Arguing won't make me love you any less. Alright?"

"Alright," Than murmurs, the barest hint of a smile shining through the clouds on his face. “We okay?"

"We're okay. I'll take the card, but only for emergencies and anything I need for the whole going public thing. On one condition."

"What condition?" Than murmurs, gazing up at him with eyes so vulnerable that Zag can't help but stroke his hair again, trying to comfort him as best he can.

"You let me take you to dinner when we're out."

"Deal." Than's reply is immediate and decisive, his face relaxing just a little.

"Don't look so happy about it, asteri mou, I'm probably taking you to Taco Bell," Zag smiles, tweaking Than's nose.

"I bet I'd like Taco Bell, actually." Than loosens his arms from Zag's waist and stands up, pulling Zag into a hug and resting his chin on the crown of his head. "I'm sorry, babe. Promise next time I'll talk to you before I do stuff like this."

"I appreciate you. And I'm sorry too," Zag murmurs, breathing in the musky scent of Than's skin. "Come on, we have a whole evening ahead of us and I wanna snuggle. You showering?"

"Yeah. Come with me?" Than tips his face up, his eyes darting over Zag's face as if he's seeking reassurance.

"You go. We can't solve everything with sex," Zag replies gently, stretching up to kiss him. "I'll wait for you in the living room, okay?"

"Okay, babe. Don't fall asleep. Maybe you can tell Dusa what you want for dinner when she comes back?"

"Will do," Zag pulls Than's head down, kissing him sweetly before he steps out of his arms. "Go shower. See you on the couch."

"See you on the couch." Than walks away, glancing back over his shoulder as he leaves the room, his lips curved in a tiny, uncertain smile that’s forged of vulnerability and hope.

Chapter Text

The argument still weighs heavy on Than's shoulders a few days later. He wishes he hadn't ordered the card in the first place, even if he suspects Zag's right that they have to work through problems together if their relationship is going to last. He lay awake long after Zag fell asleep, holding him close and listening to his breathing, hoping he hadn't messed everything up..

The only silver lining was finally hearing Zag say I love you. He feels it in his bones, Zag's love, and yet the words settled something in him, casting a reassuring warmth over his heart.

He smiles at himself in the mirror, brushing a tiny fleck of lint from his hoodie and running his fingers through his hair. Zag left the apartment a few hours ago, heading out to meet Zerina, Than's preferred stylist, leaving Than to take care of his own grooming needs for the afternoon. This evening they'll meet on a charter yacht on the Hudson for a sunset photo shoot with the goal of finding the perfect shot for their announcement.

The photographer is someone Than trusts, an industry pro who he’s worked with many times in the past. He can't help but look forward to the shoot; a romantic river cruise, the opportunity to show Zag Lady Liberty in all her glory against the sunset sky, photos for themselves as well as the press. Sweet, chaste kisses for the camera, hopefully followed by passion when they get home.

It promises to be an enjoyable evening, one they both deserve after their argument and the events of this morning. He hopes condoms becoming optional will make up for the unpleasantness of his private doctor taking samples for testing.

He hears the door buzz in the distance, presumably Charon, Hypnos and Meg arriving to whisk him off to the private dock where they're meeting Zag and Zerina. His phone chimes at the same moment, an encrypted message from his doctor letting him know that all tests have come back clear.

"What're you grinning about, Than?" Hypnos intercepts him as he walks into the living room, pounding him twice on the back. "Ah, you got your hair trimmed. Looks good."

"Excited about the shoot," Than fibs, hugging Charon and Meg as he shoves his phone into his messenger bag. "Got a hot shave, a manicure, and my eyebrows done too."

Meg nods at him approvingly. "Love suits you, you're glowing. How's your man?"

"He's good. Looking forward to seeing what Zerina does with him. We ready to roll?"

"Yup," Charon checks his phone. "Car's in the basement. Let's go."

"Who's doing makeup and hair today?" Than asks as they crowd into the elevator.

"Rob. I know you prefer Michelle, but she can be a bit gossipy. Rob's solid, won't tell a soul," Hypnos replies. "Luca nearly had a fit when Meg told them they could only bring two assistants. They're so big time now they usually refuse to shoot with fewer than seven, can you believe it?"

"They tried to negotiate five. I told them they'd regret it if they pushed us and missed out," Meg says, rolling her eyes.

"So only ten of us outside of the yacht staff?" Than asks, making a thoughtful noise. "Pretty intimate shoot. I wonder if it'll be overwhelming for Zag."

"Probably will be," Meg shrugs. "You better distract him real good."

They pile into a large SUV together, Charon sliding into the front passenger seat next to one of their drivers. Than fishes his phone out of his bag to text Zag.

Heading to the docks now
Where are you?
14:58

Nearly there
Zerina has the biggest rack of clothes I've ever seen 😯
Good afternoon? Missed you
14:59

You too babe
Grooming stuff, worked out, pretty boring
Can't wait to see you
14:59

Same, asteri mou
I hope you like what she did with me 😅
15:00

I love you however you look ❤️
15:00

😘😘😘
I love you too
See you soon xxx
15:00

"If Luca can capture that look, we're golden. No-one will think to ask if this is just a publicity stunt," Meg smiles, elbowing Than in the side.

When they walk into the boat, Than is surprised to see Zerina rearranging garment bags on one of her racks with no Zag in sight. She turns, striding over to air kiss him hello, her stiletto heeled boots tapping on the wooden floors.

"Thanatos! Great to see you. Thanks for letting me in on this one, big news. I'd never have guessed you were into guys in a million years."

Than chooses to laugh warmly despite his nerves. "What can I say, I have hidden depths. Where's Zagreus?"

Zerina leads him through the centre of the room towards the rack, weaving between a collection of blue linen couches. "He's in the bathroom. Gotta say you chose well, he's really sweet. Hope the industry doesn't turn him jaded and cynical."

A door opens at the end of the cabin and Zag steps through, his eyes lighting up the second they connect with Than’s.

He looks essentially the same, just a little more polished. His hair has been tidied up, shorn short at the back and on the sides, left long and wavy on top. He wears a white t-shirt and well cut dark blue jeans tucked into rugged brown leather boots. A wine red corduroy jacket with fleece lining adds a splash of colour that complements his tanned skin perfectly. He would look outdoorsy and wholesome if the clothes didn't cling to his gorgeous body so perfectly. Instead, he looks like a model, the kind usually seen posing sexily on top of a mountain advertising an overpriced fragrance.

Zerina watches them curiously as Zag hurries over. He stops a few steps away, his face suddenly uncertain. Than smiles, closing the distance between them and pulling Zag into his arms, grateful for the warmth that soaks immediately into his skin.

"It's okay, we can hug," he whispers into Zag's ear, admiring the neatness of his hair. "You look great."

"Not too different?" Zag asks, gazing up at him.

"I told you already, no such thing." Than pulls him closer, resting his cheek on top of the longer hair on top of his head before releasing him to grab them some water.

"Don't they look cute together?" Meg coos, wandering over to stand beside Zerina's rack.

"They sure do. Photos are gonna be amazing," Zerina replies, turning to grab a few garment bags before beckoning Than over. "Try these? He's all sexy outdoor model, your edgy rocker look will contrast great."

"Let me do his makeup first," Rob calls from the doorway, rolling his case behind him. "Hi, Than. This shoot is tres mysterious, what's going on?"

"Hold on, Luca's just arriving, Meg will explain to the group in just a moment." Hypnos clatters down the stairs from the upper deck, shutting the door behind him. "As soon as Luca, their assistants and the equipment is on board, we'll get going."

Than stands by Zag's side as Luca and their assistants carry in boxes of photographic equipment, complaining about how long it takes with so few of them. When the majority of the gear is piled up against the pale wood panelled wall, Luca makes their way over, hugging Than warmly and raising a bleached eyebrow at Zag.

Meg clears her throat, gesturing for the group to gather on the couches. Zag takes a seat obediently, Than remaining on his feet behind him.

"Alright, folks, first off we appreciate your availability at such short notice. What I'm about to tell you is confidential, which is why we had you sign NDAs. Your reputations are on the line if this leaks. We're under some time pressure - the best shots from today will be used in a social media campaign that we fully expect to break the internet. In two days time, Thanatos will be coming out as bisexual and introducing the world to his partner, Zagreus."

She pauses, letting the shockwave ripple around the room. Than steps up behind Zag, resting his fingertips lightly on his shoulders, his face carefully arranged into a neutral expression. Zag shifts in his seat as the assembled crew gawp at him in shock.

"So what we're looking for today is a shot perfect for the biggest piece of celebrity news this year. It's gotta be romantic, it's gotta be genuine, and these two need to look so hot together that everyone starts questioning their own sexuality when they look at them."

A rumble of laughter echoes around the room, the group of hardened professionals quickly adapting to the news and preparing to get to work. Than glances down, noticing the newly exposed skin on the back of Zag's neck is flushed pink. He squeezes his shoulder gently, trying to reassure him through touch alone.

"Okay." Meg claps her hands. "Than, Zag, head into that corner with Rob and Zerina, let's get you ready. Luca, I wanna talk locations and angles and lighting. Let's get to it."

Than takes Zag's hand and tugs him back towards the corner where Rob is setting up his products.

"Big news, guys." Rob raises his eyebrows as he takes a palette of cream foundation from his case. "Good to meet you, Zagreus. You won't need much, you've got great skin."

"Call me Zag," Zag murmurs, his hand clammy in Than's. "And thanks."

"Rob, I'm gonna try Than in a really tight black knit sweater," Zerina says, holding up a garment bag. "How about you work on Zag while he gets dressed? If this sweater works the way I think it will, you'll need to do him when it’s on."

"Sure, Zer," Rob replies, steering Zag towards a high stool.

Than strips off, watching Rob turn Zag's face into the light, dabbing product onto his jaw as he seeks a good foundation match. Zag sneaks a look at Than, blushing when he notices his bare chest. Than winks at him, smiling as the flush on his cheeks deepens.

Zerina passes him a very small sweater and a pair of slouchy grey pants. She turns away, rummaging in an accessory case as Than dresses. The ribbed black sweater clings, barely opaque where it stretches over his chest and shoulders, the pants hanging from his hips. Zerina turns back, raising a perfectly arched eyebrow approvingly, adding a belt and a few draping black chains to draw attention to his hips.

"Hot," Zerina mumbles. "Did you bring your rings?"

Than nods, taking a black velvet pouch from his messenger bag. He slides the heavy rings onto his fingers, dropping the pouch back into his bag when he's done.

Zag is straight up staring at him when he turns back.

"He looks good, right?" Zerina asks, a hint of pride in her voice.

"Yeah." Zag's voice is nearly strangled, his cheeks flaming red and his carnal intent abundantly clear.

"Channel that in the shoot and you'll be great, honey," Rob smirks, dusting a little more powder over Zag's nose. "Your turn, Than."

Zag hops off the chair, watching as Than takes his place. Rob arranges a plastic cape over his shoulders, working quickly to buff foundation, concealer and powder over Than's face.

"Hmm, how much eyeliner?" he muses, uncapping a stick of kohl.

"Tons," Zerina pipes up from next to Zag. "Smudge it good."

Than holds still, his eyes fixed on Zag's as Rob works. His boyfriend's cheeks might have cooled a little, but he knows him well enough to know what that sparkle in his eyes means.

Luca and Meg wander over as the boat's engine cuts out abruptly.

"Whew, is it just me or is the sexual tension so thick you could cut it with a knife?" Meg gasps dramatically, pretending to fan herself with her iPad.

Zag blushes again. His lips bear the slightest balmy sheen, his eyelashes subtly enhanced with mascara. Than bites his own lip, desperate to kiss him. Rob tsks at him, dabbing on a little more pink tinted balm onto the fullest part of Than's lower lip. "Alright, done."

Rob and Zerina step back, giving Luca space to inspect their work. Luca nods approvingly, gesturing to the open space outside. "The sunset is about to grace us with its presence, and Lady Liberty's just ahead. Let's head outside. Act naturally, pretend it's just the two of you."

Zag gazes up at Than through his eyelashes, his expression suddenly coy. Than holds his hand out, easily tuning out the sound of Luca's camera, the shutter snapping as they take a burst of shots. "Come on, babe. Focus on me."

Zag's hand slips into his, his palm damp with nervous sweat. Than tugs him gently out of the cabin door and onto the deck, straight out into a gorgeous view of the sunset washed Hudson, the Statue of Liberty rising gracefully up into the cloud streaked sky. Zag gasps, forgetting the cameras, the reflectors, the lights, walking to the railing and gazing out over the glowing water.

He looks beautiful, his face painted golden in the sunset. Than crowds in behind him, gripping the railing by his belly and nuzzling into his ear. "Just you and me in the sunset, doing a tourist cruise down the river. What do you think?"

"Beautiful," Zag breathes, his face enraptured. "I've seen her in movies and on TV so many times, but I didn't think she'd be this big. She's majestic."

"She's not the only one," Than murmurs, kissing Zag's temple and wrapping his arms around his waist, cuddling his back into his chest.

Zag tenses up as the sound of Luca's camera shatters the romance of the moment. "Shit, sorry."

"Try to relax, babe," Than says softly, holding Zag closer. "Focus on you and me. No-one else matters."

"You know what would help?" Zag says, draping his arms on top of Than's.

"What? Name it, I'll do it."

"Kiss me. Make me forget everything but your mouth on mine."

Than turns Zag around in his arms, subtly positioning them so Luca can get a clear shot. He cups Zag's face in his hands, smiling as Zag rests his hands on his hips, sending the chains clinking softly. "Zagreus."

"Yes, Thanatos?" Zag looks up at him with huge, liquid eyes filled with devotion.

"I love you," Than says, his heart clenching in his chest. "I'm so grateful you're here with me. I'm so honoured that you're by my side. I… I love you so much."

"I love you too," Zag breathes, already stretching up on his tiptoes to receive Than's kiss, his lips brushing oh so gently over his.

The sounds of Luca's footsteps and the incessant clicking of the camera's shutter fade away as their lips move together, slow and sweet. Than can't help but smile into the kiss, Zag's love surrounding him like a weighted blanket, comforting and solid.

They drift apart, gazing into each other's eyes, arms still wrapped tightly around each other. Than sees so much emotion in Zag's mismatched eyes, blooming like a rose opening to the morning sun. Everything he feels for Zag is reflected right back at him, given freely like the most precious of offerings.

"I don't know what I'd do without you," he finds himself murmuring, his gaze dropping briefly to Zag's lips. "Stay with me. I need you by my side."

Zag grins at him, evidently happy that he's given up reminding him that he can always walk away. His eyelids drift closed as he leans in, kissing him sweetly, his chest crushed against Than's. Than tries to keep the kiss light and gentle, but Zag deepens it, pressing closer and parting his lips, sliding his tongue into Than's mouth, the slightest hint of a moan rumbling in his throat.

“Boys, we're aiming for sweet, not pornographic," Meg chides.

Zag freezes briefly before pulling back, his cheeks splashed with embarrassment. Than laughs, hugging him close and turning his blazing face into his shoulder, dipping his head to whisper in his ear. "Later, babe. I'll give you everything you want later."

Zag snuggles closer, hiding his burning cheeks and relaxing into Than's embrace.

They move around the boat, admiring the beauty of the sunset while Luca follows them discreetly. Eventually Zag seems to tune the camera out, barely reacting to the noise of the shutter bursts that interrupt them.

Meg leads them through a series of slightly more posed setups, arranging them on the linen couches in the cabin with their arms around each other. Whenever Zag stiffens too much, Than distracts him with a kiss or a soft I love you, until Luca finally proclaims them done.

Than is about to lean over and whisper the news of their test results into Zag's ear when Hypnos sidles over, beaming with happiness.

"We got some amazing shots, the hard work will be choosing just one. Well done, guys," he grins. "Celebratory pizza at Than's tonight?"

"Sure, sounds great," Zag accepts before Than has the chance to politely decline.

He suppresses his sigh, resigning himself to a few more hours before he can bury himself in Zag, or have Zag bury himself in him, a shared first he's been looking forward to for hours. All of a sudden he flushes, realising that for the first time, they're making plans as a couple. Zag accepted on their behalf. Like he felt comfortable speaking for them both.

When he's changed back into jeans and a hoodie, he hugs Zag close against his side, full of a sweet domestic warmth he hopes he will never take for granted.

Chapter Text

Zag hops into the car next to Than, resisting the urge to cuddle into him. The driver isn’t in on the plan. For him at least, Zag is just a new member of Than’s entourage, working alongside him like Hypnos, Megaera and Charon.

The suited man slides and slams the door shut, jumping quickly into the vehicle and starting the engine. It’s not far to Than’s apartment building, but the early evening traffic is slow, crawling up the wide avenues at a snail’s pace. For a moment, Zag misses the quiet roads of Paros, the views of the ocean and the mountains, the prickle of the midday sun on his face. The twinge of homesickness passes quickly enough, fading when he focuses on the feeling of Than’s thigh pressed against his.

Than sighs heavily beside him. Zag frowns, glancing over to try to catch his eye. When he continues to stare resolutely ahead, Zag slides a hand into his pocket, grabbing his phone.

Something wrong?
19:49

Nothing wrong
There’s something I want to tell you
But Hyp, Charon and Meg are coming over
19:50

Something bad? 😨
19:50

No no the opposite
19:50

Come on, I’m dying to know
TELL ME!! 🙏
19:51

Zag nudges Than subtly with his shoulder, glancing up at him and catching the smirk that flashes across his face.

Please?
Please, asteri mou?
19:52

Okay, okay
Doctor texted
All tests clear
We’re good to go
19:52

Zag suppresses his gasp, a thrill of excitement shooting through his spine. He ducks his head, trying to hide the irrepressible grin that takes over his face, hoping the others aren’t paying too much attention to them.

So you’re saying…
If I hadn’t said yes to celebratory pizza…
We could be going straight to bed?? 😳
19:53

Yup
We could
But instead…
… we eat pizza with my family
19:53

Fuck
19:53

Uh huh
19:53

I could pretend to get a headache?
19:54

Than chuckles under his breath, slipping his hand onto Zag’s thigh to risk a quick squeeze.

“You alright, Than?” Hypnos asks from behind them, his voice entirely too close.

“Yeah, I’m good,” Than replies, biting his lip and glancing down at Zag. “Just read something that made me laugh.”

“Oh, cool. You want me to call ahead and order the pizza?”

Zag types furiously, thumbs flying over the backlit touchscreen.

Stall them
Get us an hour
Please, asteri mou
I want you so much
19:55

Than turns the surprised laugh that bursts from his lips into a cough. “Um, I think I'll need an hour before we eat. Shower all the hairspray and makeup off, put the new clothes away, you know. I’ll ask Dusa to order when we get home and text you when we’re ready?”

Behind them, Hypnos leans forward, bracing his forearms against the back of their seat. “You need an hour to put some clothes away and take a shower?”

Zag bites his lip, not trusting himself to say a word without breaking down into a heap of helpless giggles.

“Yeah,” Than says, his voice surprisingly even. “Have you seen how much eyeliner I’m wearing?”

“Leave it,” Charon rumbles from the front passenger seat. “Don’t ask.”

Zag looks down at his phone, hoping Charon isn’t looking at him in the rear view mirror.

Oh my god
19:56

Yeah, we went there
You wanna go on top?
19:57

I mean, I’m flexible
19:57

Trust me, I know 😉🤭
19:57

💀
Honestly, asteri mou, I don’t mind
I just can’t wait to feel you like that
19:58

Same, babe
Okay 🤔
I want you inside me when we get home
And then when they leave…
19:58

When they leave…??
19:58

I’m gonna take you
Real slow
Might take all night
19:58

Zag swallows, composing himself before he taps out his reply.

Are you SURE I can’t fake a headache?
19:59

Than suppresses another chuckle, bumping Zag’s knee with his own.

The car pulls up in the basement a short while later. They crowd into the elevator, Than and Zag both laden with shopping bags stuffed with clothes purchased that afternoon. Hypnos gives them a look when he, Meg and Charon step out at their floor, Meg simply rolling her eyes as she ushers him towards his apartment. Zag manages to keep his face neutral and innocent just long enough for the elevator doors to slide noiselessly shut, bursting into laughter the second they begin the ascent to Than’s penthouse. Than smiles at him, his eyes crinkled with affectionate humour, leaning over to press a sweet, romantic kiss against his forehead as the doors ping open.

Zag opens the door, walking through to find Dusa dusting in the hallway. His greeting turns into a yelp as Than lifts him and his shopping bags into his arms, nodding at a smiling Dusa as he carries Zag towards the bedroom.

Than kicks the door shut behind them, dropping bags to the floor with every step as Zag giggles happily, gazing up at his boyfriend.

"Let go of the bags," he murmurs, dipping to brush his lips slowly over Zag's.

"There are things that'll crease if they're not hung up, Zerina made me promise to deal with them the second we got home," Zag grins, wanting to tease him a little.

"They can be replaced. I'll replace them all a hundred times before I waste a second with you tonight," Than growls, nodding approvingly as Zag drops the remaining bags into an untidy pile on the floor.

"You're so sexy when you say things like that," Zag breathes, tilting his head up to encourage Than to kiss him again.

Than indulges him, crushing their lips together and squeezing him tighter in his arms. He sets Zag gently down onto the floor, crouching to undo the laces of his leather boots and tugging them off his feet. He reaches up for Zag's belt, unbuckling it quickly, his eyes full of burnished golden flames.

It doesn't take long for them to undress each other, their hands moving faster and more roughly the closer they get to nakedness. Than pulls Zag on top of him on the bed, winding his arms and legs around him and sliding his fingers into his newly shorn hair.

"I like your hair like this, but I'm gonna miss having so much hair to pull," Than whispers, gazing up at him.

"I'll grow it back," Zag replies immediately, rolling his hips slowly. "Anything for you, asteri mou."

"Anything?" Than kisses his way along Zag's jaw.

"Anything." Zag shivers as Than sucks his earlobe between his lips.

He trails kisses delicately over the shell of his ear. "Then fuck me, babe."

Zag kisses him hard, shoving his hand into Than's hair, only half registering the hairspray crispiness. He gently extricates himself from Than's limbs, leaning over to grab the lube.

"Shuffle up the bed." Than does as instructed, his shoulders slightly elevated on the fluffy pillows. Zag grasps Than's ankles, pulling them together before rolling him half onto his side, his back flat against the pillows. "You'll like it like this, asteri mou. So deep, and I can still see your face."

Than bites his lip as Zag drizzles lube over his fingers. "I can't wait to feel you come inside me."

"Oh yeah? You want that? I can always pull out if you're not sure," Zag circles Than's hole with two fingers, happy to find him already relaxed. He pushes both fingers inside smoothly, making to pull them out again at the loud gasp Than makes as he does. “Too much?”

Than catches his hand, his fingers wrapping around Zag's wrist and pushing his fingers back inside. "Don't stop. I want it. I want you."

Heat blossoms on Zag's skin, speeding his fingers as they thrust inside him. "I wish we had longer than an hour. I want to wreck you."

"You always wreck me," Than murmurs, his breath catching in his chest. "Fuck me. Please."

"Soon," Zag promises, watching Than's face as pleasure washes over his features. When he's nearly panting, Zag gropes for the lube with his clean hand and squeezes a stream of silky liquid over his cock. He tugs his fingers free and lines himself up, rubbing the bare head of his cock over Than's hole, rational thought dissipating at the slide of skin against skin. "Ready?"

"Zagreus, put your cock in me now," Than growls, his eyes glowing.

Zag laughs, deep and throaty, flexing his hips forwards and sinking inside in one smooth thrust. "Fuck, that feels… just…more." His fingers dig into Than's flank, anchoring himself as he pulls out, Than's body clenching deliciously around him as if trying to keep him inside.

Than moans, fitting his hand over Zag's, entwining their fingers. His eyes are lidded, almost lost in pleasure already, his hips twitching as Zag fills him with long, deep strokes. "Zag… fuck… feels so good. I love you. I love you."

"I love you too," Zag gasps. It's hard to put his finger on how it feels to fuck Than without a condom, the sensations similar but slightly amplified. Most of the difference is in his head, he realises; the newness, the commitment, the trust that Than gives him,keeps giving him, entrusting him with first after first after first.

He realises suddenly that this is a shared first. The thought floods him with sweetness and gratitude, pleasure twining with a kind of soul deep affection in his blood. He thrusts harder into Than's body, wanting to bury himself as deeply inside him as he can, to occupy every bit of space inside Than as he's occupied every part of Zag.

"Touch yourself," he whispers, digging his fingers into the soft skin of Than's thigh as electricity crackles through his core, Than's body addictively hot and tight around his cock. "You feel so fucking good, my love."

"Don't hold back," Than breathes, his hand stroking slowly up and down his cock, his amber eyes gazing rapt at Zag's face. "Come inside me. Please, Zag… fill me."

Zag moans, his hips thrusting faster as a wave of dense, thick pleasure looms over him. He tries to fight it back, but it crashes through him, Than's begging pushing him hard into the storm. Brightness explodes behind his eyelids as he comes deep inside the man he loves.

He grinds his cock inside Than, shivering at the slick wetness of lube and his come coating Than's inner walls as the waves of pleasure slowly ebb away. His eyes blink open, noticing immediately that Than's fingers are motionless. "You… you didn't come yet."

"I want to wait," Than murmurs, breathing deliberately slowly as if to calm himself. "For later."

"Why?" Zag murmurs, stroking his fingers gently over Than's muscular thigh. "It feels good, right?"

Than's eyebrows shoot upwards, his hand grabbing for Zag's where it lies draped on his hip. "Yeah! Of course. I just wanted to feel everything. And now I want to feel everything from where you are now."

“You can do that later and still come now,” Zag murmurs, walking his fingers deliberately down Than’s thigh towards his dick.

“It’s okay, babe, seriously,” Than smiles, grabbing Zag’s hand and kissing each fingertip. “This is what I want.”

“Alright, asteri mou. I’m gonna pull out now.” Zag withdraws gently, his length gleaming wet. He shuffles back a little, watching a thin stream of fluid trickle from Than’s hole, the sight almost arousing enough to make him want to go again. "Fuck, that's hot."

“I wish we didn’t have to shower,” Than whispers. His hips shift a little on the bed as he squeezes Zag’s hand in his. “I want to keep you in me.”

“Bit of a creampie kink?” Zag grins. “Gotta shower. We probably stink of sex.” He leans over Than’s body, capturing his lips in a deep, sensual kiss. “I’ll fill you up any time you want, I promise.”

They clamber off the bed and walk slowly towards the bathroom, Than’s face caught between grimace and delighted smirk.

“Everything okay?”

“Yeah, babe. I’m… I'm dripping. I like it. Feel like you’ve claimed me, somehow.”

Zag turns the water on, ushering his gorgeous boyfriend under the spray, his hand dropping to stroke the slick wetness running down the back of his thigh. He can’t think of any way to respond other than pulling Than into a kiss, pouring every shred of his love into gentle swipes of his tongue over the seam of Than’s lips. “I love you.”

“I love you too. Come on, we better be quick.”

They wash themselves hurriedly, sluicing the sticky remains of their lovemaking and the photoshoot down the drain with hot water and citrus scented toiletries. Smudges of eyeliner and mascara cling to Than’s eyes even when they’re done, and Zag finds the act of removing the stubborn makeup with cotton balls as soothing for him as it clearly is for Than. Than reciprocates, sweeping the last of Zag’s mascara away and leaning behind him to grab a tube of lip balm, smearing way too much over Zag’s sensitised lips and then kissing him to share it between them. Zag giggles, gazing up into Than’s eyes, grateful for every moment spent with such a wonderful man.

Than texts Dusa to ask her to order pizza while Zag texts the group chat to tell them to come up in fifteen. They rescue Zag’s new clothes from the bags littered over the bedroom floor, Than rubbing the fabrics between his fingers approvingly.

The fact That cleared space for him in the walk in closet adds to the post-coital warmth that lingers in Zag's cheeks.

“Hey, I got you something.” Zag grabs a small black bag, charcoal tissue paper sprouting out of the opening. The gift was more expensive than anything he’s ever bought before, but it’s so perfectly Than that he couldn’t resist. “I hope you like it.”

“Aww, babe, you didn’t need to,” Than smiles, reaching out and taking the bag. “Having you in my life is the best gift I’ve ever had.”

Zag smiles goofily at him, wondering how he makes theoretically cheesy things sound so incredibly romantic. Than perches on the edge of the bed, opening the bag carefully and pulling out the tissue wrapped contents, gently folding back layers of thin paper to get at the gift inside. His face lights up, the paper falling to the floor as he lifts the scarf free.

“Alexander McQueen, right? His skull scarves are iconic. It’s perfect, Zag, thank you so much.” Than drapes the scarf quickly around his neck before jumping up to pull Zag into a tight hug. “You spoil me.”

“You can wear it when I take you to Taco Bell for dinner,” Zag grins, the skull printed silk cool against his cheek as he nuzzles into Than’s embrace.

By the time the doorbell chimes, they’re cuddling on the sofa, full of love and satisfaction.

The group gathers around the dining table to wait for the food. Dusa brings a selection of drinks, including a familiar looking bottle of red wine. Zag tastes it thoughtfully, trying to place it. A smile spreads over his face when he identifies it as the same Pinot Noir they shared the evening he fell asleep on Than watching Love Island. He glances across the table at his boyfriend, his smile widening as Than blows him a kiss, the choice of wine obviously intentional.

"To a great shoot." Meg raises her tumbler of whiskey. "And to breaking the internet at four in the afternoon two days from now."

A chorus of resonant chimes fills the air. Dusa hurries into the room with a stack of Patsy's pizza boxes, dumping them directly onto the table and retreating as the group flips them open.

"The photos will be ready for then?" Than mumbles through a mouthful of pepperoni.

"Yup," Meg grabs a slice of spicy meat pizza. "Assuming you're vetoing any touchups?"

"Damn right." Than tears off another chunk of pizza, chewing hungrily. "Did you decide which shot to use?"

"Luca sent the set over while you were busy," Meg winks. "We’ll choose, and then they’ll edit them. Nothing more than adjusting the levels, don't worry. We can look after dinner."

"They're all great," Hypnos adds.

"Can we get a couple for ourselves?" Zag ventures hopefully. "Don't have many photos of us together, obviously."

"Of course," Meg grins.

"Maybe you can send one to Mom?" Hypnos adds slyly.

Zag glances over at Than, his stomach fizzing with sudden nervousness. Will Than's mother approve of him? He frowns, realising that they've barely spoken about Than's mother. "Did you tell her about me?"

"Obviously I told her about you, silly," Than rolls his eyes. "She can't wait to meet you."

"Oh," Zag says, reaching for another slice of pizza to hide his blush. He watches Than stuff half a folded slice of pepperoni pizza into his mouth, raising his eyebrows at how quickly he's eating. "You're really gobbling that down, asteri mou."

Than smirks, swallowing audibly and opening his mouth to speak.

"Nope!" Hypnos yelps, clapping his hand over his brother's mouth. "I know what kind of joke he's about to make and I absolutely don’t want that mental image, thanks."

Than giggles behind Hypnos' hand, wiggling his pale eyebrows. He looks so relaxed, so free, chomping on pizza with his family around him. Zag smiles, happy to see his partner happy.

They demolish the remaining pizza, wiping their greasy fingers on paper napkins and finishing their drinks. Than challenges Hypnos and Meg to a game of Mario Kart, a sparkle in his eye. Before Zag knows it, he's sitting on one of the living room couches, Than on the floor between his legs. Charon looks on as they play, sighing disapprovingly as Than and Hypnos resort to throwing cushions at each other as the competition intensifies.

When Hypnos has decisively beaten them, best out of five, they crowd around Meg's iPad, reviewing the photos taken earlier that day. Zag cuddles into Than's side, his heart warming as they flick through photo after photo. They look so perfectly in love in every single shot, whether they're gazing at Lady Liberty in golden evening light or sharing a kiss on one of the blue linen sofas.

"Which one?" Than murmurs, his fingers pressing firmly into Zag's waist. "You look so beautiful in all of them."

"And you," Zag whispers, nudging him with his hip.

Meg flicks again, stopping with a soft gasp. "This one?"

Than's grip on him tightens. Zag glances up at him, his heart clenching at the love on his handsome face.

"That one," Than says quietly, his voice full of emotion. "It's perfect. I can't wait for the whole world to see it."

Chapter Text

Two days later, Than wakes up face to face with Zag, a beam of sunlight warming his face. He frowns, his sleep addled brain wondering why the blackout curtains aren’t closed. It takes a moment for him to remember what happened the previous evening.

They had made love on the chaise longue set before the window, the lights of the city sparkling like a sea of stars before them. Zag’s hands were pressed against the cool glass, anchoring himself as Than thrust slowly into him from behind. It was a luxuriously unhurried coupling, their last evening of peace before their worlds changed for good. The last evening of treating their love like a cherished secret, locked away in a jewelled box.

Than smiles, watching his sleeping lover. The sex was good, the two of them cycling through countless positions until Zag ended up in his lap. He cupped Than’s face in his hands, barely moving his hips, and just like that their lovemaking had turned tender in a way Than knows he’ll never forget.

“I never knew I could feel like this,” Zag whispered, his lips a sigh's width from Than’s. “It’s like you’ve become a part of me. I feel like I can face anything with you by my side.”

The cool glow of the city illuminated his face just enough for Than to see his lashes shining wet and luminous. Moisture pooled in his own eyes as he gazed up at him, his heart full of gratitude.

Zag brushed his thumb over Than's skin, swiping away a tear he hadn't felt fall. “You make the world feel so much more vibrant, agape mou. So many amazing things out there, and I want to experience them all with you.”

Than had kissed him, unable to bear one more moment without feeling those plush, soft lips on his. He shifted his hands from Zag’s waist, cradling him carefully as he switched their position again, settling Zag beneath him and smiling at how naturally his legs wound themselves around his hips.

“I’ve written a hundred love songs. None of them even come close to expressing what I feel for you,” he murmured, gazing down at Zag’s face as he rocked slowly inside him. “You make me feel alive. You make me feel… real. I can’t even find the words…”

Zag had pulled him down into an endless kiss, their lips moving together as sweetly as their bodies.

Than luxuriates in the memory, a sleepy smile on his lips. It hadn’t been the hottest sex they’d had, nor had his orgasm been the most intense. But it had been the most tender, the emotional connection between them almost tangible in its strength, growing stronger and stronger with every day spent together.

He reaches out, brushing a lock of hair from Zag’s forehead. He’s selfish enough to want to see his eyes flicker open, see the clarity that snaps into place once the dreams fade, the smile he knows will arrive on Zag’s lips next. They might not have been together for long, but Than knows his Zag, well enough to be impatient for him to awaken.

Sure enough, Zag stirs, lips parting in a sigh as his eyes blink open. His gaze is soft and dazed for a moment before he smiles, his mismatched eyes full of warmth.

“Morning, babe,” Than whispers, stroking his shoulder, enjoying the feeling of his sleep warmed skin.

“Morning,” Zag yawns, stretching a little before shuffling into Than’s waiting arms. “What time is it?”

“Dunno. The sunlight woke me, we forgot to close the curtains last night.” Than inhales deeply, breathing in the scent of Zag’s hair.

“I wonder why,” Zag replies, his voice muffled against Than’s throat. He leans back a little, eyes suddenly dancing with excitement. “Today’s the day!”

“Yup.” Than only manages to get a single word out before Zag kisses him enthusiastically. “Seems like you still want to do this? Even if it changes your life forever?”

“I appreciate you asking, but you know I'm all in. You?”

“Wouldn’t miss it for the world.”

They lie quietly for a while, wrapped up in their own thoughts and each other’s arms.

“What do you want to do today? Before everything happens, I mean?” Zag asks, his fingers trailing tingling lines over Than’s back.

“Work out, review the artwork options for the new album, play my guitars a little. Meg’s gonna set up a war room in the dining room, she says, make sure everything’s ready to go. Think she’s coming over at two.” Than squeezes Zag tightly, a flash of anxiety shooting through him. “You should head out this morning, babe. Probably the last time you’ll be able to go out without security for a while.”

Zag hesitates as if he’s about to disagree for just a moment before nodding his head. “You’re right. Maybe I’ll go walk in Central Park, get a bit of nature in before we’re cooped up here for the next few days.”

“Good plan. We won’t even be able to use the roof terrace, the news helicopters might fly past. Bring me a coffee and a treat on your way back?”

“Sure, asteri mou. I’ll bring you the naughtiest, carbiest treat I can find.” Zag rolls on top of him, peppering his face with kisses. “God, I love you.”

“I love you too.” Than holds him close and revels in the smell of his skin, his natural scent overlaid with the musky heaviness of everything they shared last night. “Any particular reason?”

“M’so lucky,” Zag mumbles, burying his face in Than’s neck.

Than laughs and rolls them out of bed towards the shower.

Zag leaves before breakfast, eager to enjoy his anonymous freedom while it lasts. For a moment, Than wishes they could head out for breakfast together, walk into a neighbourhood cafe chosen because it looks cute rather than because it’s a discreet place for celebrities to eat undisturbed. He asks Dusa for an egg white omelette with spinach, wolfing it down hungrily before heading into his rarely used home office to look through the artwork options the label sent through last night.

His favourite is a moody black and white painting of a butterfly fighting it's way free from a chrysalis, perfect for an album named Metamorphosis.

An hour’s run on the treadmill, listening to a rough cut of the album as his feet pound the belt in a smooth rhythm, followed by an hour with the weights, and he’s ready for another shower. He gulps down a protein shake and heads into his music room, ready to lose himself in the calm generated by the fuzzy warmth of his Cosmos guitar.

A couple of hours later, the door to the music room swings open.

“Honey, I’m home,” Zag trills, poking his head around the door. “Brought you a coffee and some treats. Did you know there’s a shop that only sells rice pudding nearby?”

“I didn’t, babe, but it sounds delicious. Good day?” Than turns to flick off the amp, unplugging the cord from the guitar and hanging the beloved instrument carefully against the wall.

“Yeah, I spent most of my time in the park. Come to the kitchen, let me feed you?”

“Sure.” Than kisses his temple and squeezes his waist before he follows.

“What did you do so far today?” Zag asks, dumping a selection of paper bags and two takeout coffee cups on the granite breakfast bar. He walks over to one of the cupboards, grabbing a plate and a bowl before opening a drawer to find a spoon.

Than watches from a chrome barstool, feeling a half smile form on his lips at how effortlessly Zag navigates the kitchen. Like they’ve been living together for years already. “Basically what I said this morning. Worked out, looked at the cover art, practiced guitar.”

“You still have to practice? I thought you were one of the best guitarists in the world?” Zag glances at him curiously, passing him a coffee cup.

“Thanks, babe. I dunno about that.” Than shrugs, taking a grateful sip. “Always gotta practise. One of those things, no matter how good you are, you can always be better.”

“I guess.” Zag rummages in the paper bags for a moment. “What do you want first, savoury or sweet?”

“Savoury?”

“Okay. So, I went to Taco Bell and most of what I tried was pretty bad. Only one thing I liked.” Zag grins happily. “Chicken chalupa. I’m not taking you to Taco Bell for dinner, asteri mou, I’ll take you to Chipotle instead.”

Than laughs as Zag dumps a chalupa on the plate and pushes it towards him. “Chipotle’s pretty good. Reliable food when we’re on the road. Never had a chalupa before.” He picks up the crispy shelled taco gingerly, raising an eyebrow at the amount of sour cream on top of the meat.

Zag watches him intently as he takes a bite, giggling as fragments of crispy shell explode onto the plate. “So, what do you think?”

“Give me a second,” Than mumbles through his mouthful. The chalupa shell is a strange mixture of crunchy and chewy, the filling mild and slightly salty. He swallows, shrugging his shoulders. “It’s alright. If this was the best thing you ate at Taco Bell, I’m happy you’re taking me to Chipotle instead.”

Zag smiles at him indulgently. “Glad you agree. Rice pudding?”

“If you share it with me."

They work their way through the bowl of rice pudding, feeding each other spoonfuls and relaxing into the calm before the storm. When the bowl is empty, Zag jumps up, insisting that Than stays seated as he tidies away the remnants of their snack.

“What time is it?” he asks as he turns the espresso machine on. “Want another latte?”

“If you don’t mind. It’s one thirty. Half an hour until everyone shows up.” Than watches Zag zip around the kitchen, stacking the dishwasher and grinding some fresh beans. “You wanna call your mom and your friends, make sure they’re ready? It's likely some journalist will find them in the next couple of days.”

“Yeah, good idea. I’ll just make our coffee first, okay?”

“Thanks, babe. You’re the best.”

Zag shoots him a sweet smile across the kitchen before turning back to steam some milk.

The doorbell rings, the distant sound of Dusa’s footsteps following.

“Huh, guess Meg’s early. I’ll help her get set up, you go make your calls, alright?” Than crosses the kitchen to kiss the crown of Zag’s head, running his fingers lovingly over the curve of his shoulder.

“Will do. Here’s your latte. I’ll take mine to the bedroom and call from there. Come find you in a bit.” Zag hands him a cup, a perfectly shaped heart decorating the frothy surface.

Than waits for Dusa to lead Meg through. Hypnos walks into the kitchen, wearing his off duty uniform of a cosy mulberry hoodie open over a cream coloured tank.

“Hey, Hyp. Thought you were Meg. Want some coffee?”

“Nah, I’m good. Meg’s just getting her stuff together, I wanted to talk to you before everything kicks off.” Hypnos mirrors his posture, leaning against the breakfast bar beside him.

“You’re not going to try to convince me to call it off, are you?” Than asks quietly.

“Course not. You’ve been so much happier since you met him. Come into yourself, you know? Like, when we were negotiating the new album, you were less deferential, much clearer on what you wanted to do. He’s good for you. Helps you be a stronger version of yourself behind the scenes.” Hypnos reaches over and pats Than’s shoulder reassuringly. “I’m happy for you, bro.”

Thick, warm gratitude gathers in Than’s throat. He’s lucky to have a brother like Hypnos, willing to love and care for him despite how emotionally aloof Than knows he can be sometimes, when the celebrity mask clings a little too tight. He turns and hugs his brother, resting his cheek on his shoulder.

When he finally lets go, he’s surprised by the size of the lump in his throat. He swallows, smiling at Hypnos appreciatively. “Thanks, Hyp. Can’t tell you how grateful I am for your support. Dunno what I’d do without you. Definitely wouldn’t be strong enough to do all this.”

“You’d muddle by.” Hypnos flushes slightly, unused to such candid displays of emotion.

Than slaps his shoulder gently, vowing to tell his brother how vital he is more often. “What did you want to talk about, anyway?”

“Oh, yeah.” Hypnos raises his eyebrows. “Once Metamorphosis is released and you’ve done all the promo stuff, your current contract is fulfilled. You said you weren’t sure if you wanted another ten years, so I did a little research. We could set up an independent label so you can record as much or as little as you want to, keep you in the game but on your terms. We’d need to sell off some of your property portfolio, but we could fund it. And…” he pauses, glancing over at Than.

“And?” Than asks, draining his latte and placing his empty cup on the counter.

“If you wanted, we could sign and promote queer talent. I don’t want anyone to feel like they can’t be who they are in the music industry, like you did.”

A wave of emotion crashes over him, and before he knows it, he’s hugging Hypnos again, moisture dampening his eyelashes. “I love you.”

“Love you too, Than,” Hypnos murmurs, stroking his back reassuringly. “I take it you like the idea?”

“I really do,” Than mumbles, his face pressed into his brother’s hoodie.

“Good, I’m glad. We can talk about it in more detail whenever, just wanted you to know it’s an option. Come on, Meg’s gonna be here soon. You alright?”

“Yeah. Just happy.” Than extricates himself from his brother’s arms and wipes his eyes with the back of his hands. He grabs two glasses and fills them with ice, taking a Coke from the fridge for Hypnos and filling his own glass with filtered water. “Let’s go wait for her in the living room. We should chat about the album art while you’re here.”

Hypnos takes his drink and follows Than down the carpeted hallway. They stretch out on the sofas, quickly finding that they’re already in agreement on the artwork for the album. They chat about the promo plan for a little while, but neither of them really want to talk about something so far off with the announcement looming just ahead of them. They end up gaming together, lapsing into a comfortable silence as their fingers tap furiously at the controllers.

Meg and Zag turn up together, rolling their eyes at the twins sprawled over the couches and heading straight through to the dining room. A few minutes later, Than and Hypnos join them, intercepting Dusa walking Charon in from the front door.

Meg takes a seat at the head of the table, pulling her laptop, iPad and phone out of her bag and laying them meticulously on the glass surface. Dusa hurries off to bring drinks and snacks as the rest of the group sit down.

“Alright, we’re doing this?” Meg asks, her gaze sharp and businesslike.

Zag takes Than’s hand, lacing their fingers together under the table. “I’m in.”

“And so am I,” Than murmurs, throwing Zag a soft smile before turning his attention to Meg. She’s wearing a cosy blue sweater dress, her hair pulled back in a tight ponytail. She looks calm and in control, ready to orchestrate the celebrity news event of the year from Than’s dining room table.

Meg turns her gaze to Hypnos. "The label didn’t want anyone here?”

He shrugs neutrally. “They wanted their internal PR department to run the show, but I said no. They’ve got their press people ready to answer incoming inquiries as soon as the news hits.”

“Good by me,” Meg grins. “Alright. Let’s recap the plan. We’ve got the photo, Luca edited it a little to play up the contrast, it looks great. We’re gonna work on the caption together now, post it as soon as it’s ready and approved by the label, monitor the reaction and deal with any incoming requests from journalists. I spent the morning making calls and sending emails, letting a few folks know that you’ve got some big news to share today, so I fully expect a lot of interest. When people start looking for a statement from the label, I’ll tease that you’re open to doing an interview, terms and conditions to be discussed once the news is out. Zag, before we do this, you’ll want to check in with your family and friends, see if they’re doing alright, make sure they know how to respond to the press if they’re contacted.”

“Already done, Meg,” Zag interjects. “I called Mama, and had a group call with Evgeny, Angelina and Miltos just before you arrived. They know what to do.”

“Nice, thanks Zag. Let’s keep the lines of communication open, okay? I hope it’ll take time for the press to find them, but you never know,” Meg says calmly. “Okay, so I’ll scope out who’s likely to give us the kind of coverage we want, and I’ll set up an exclusive interview. Tomorrow or the day after, since you’ll be stuck here, we’ll let the journalist bring one photographer to capture you both at home. Sound good?”

“Sounds good, Meg. Let’s do it.” Than squeezes Zag’s hand in his own, suppressing the temptation to offer him an escape one last time. Whatever happens from here, they’re in it together, their choices made.

“Any ideas for the caption?” Meg asks, an eyebrow raised.

Than looks automatically over at Zag. He shrugs in response. “Don’t look at me. You’re the one who writes beautiful song lyrics for a living.”

He lets his eyes drift half shut, considering how to express the storm of emotions that have bubbled to the surface since he boarded the yacht that afternoon. The sense of coming into himself, the joy and fear of finally allowing himself something he had thought would be forbidden forever. The sweetness Zag brings to his life, the background anxiety that he might leave. He takes a deep breath, considering. He doesn’t want to make this about Zagreus, per se. It should about him,his journey, his identity. If he focuses the caption on himself, maybe he can keep some of the heat away from the man he loves.

“I buried the truth so deep I thought it would never emerge into the light. I lived in darkness, fearing that one day, the truth would break free and end me. Today, I am strong enough to embrace the truth and stand tall in the light, with him by my side.” Than opens his eyes, blinking back the moisture that seems to have gathered behind his eyelashes, finding himself gazing at Zag. “What do you think?”

“I love it.” Zag's eyes shine with the extent of his love and support. “It’s perfect.”

“Meg? Hyp? Charon?” Than asks, tearing his eyes away from his boyfriend.

“It’s good, Than,” Hypnos nods. Charon grunts in agreement.

“I’m sold,” Meg smiles. “Heartfelt, poetic, vulnerable. Perfect. Let me just send it to the label’s PR team and see what they think.”

The silence in the room thickens with tension, the clock counting the last few minutes of the life they led before. Than tries not to think of the tests that await them in the aftermath to come, choosing to focus on the things they’ll be able to do together after; going out together, holding hands in public, no longer looking over their shoulders. He finds himself wondering if he’ll feel the weight lifting from his shoulders, if their love will feel different now it’s in the spotlight.

He can’t wait to find out.

“PR team are good with the caption, we’re good to go. Drafting the post now, it’ll go out simultaneously across a few platforms.” Meg’s fingers dance over her keyboard. “Okay, ready. We doing this? Say the word.”

Than squeezes Zag’s hand in his, his knuckles bright with tension, fear and hope writhing in his chest. Zag smiles up at him, squeezing right back, and Than feels like his future is staring him in the face, daring him to run towards it at full speed, no regrets.

“Do it.” His voice doesn't so much as waver. He holds Zag’s gaze as Meg makes the post, propelling the truth into the light forever.

Chapter Text

After a few minutes of tense silence, the room is filled with the sounds of ringing phones and chiming notifications. Hypnos and Meg are immediately engaged in conversation, their phones cradled against their ears as they type on their laptops, a flood of interest breaking over them all like a tsunami, unstoppable.

Even Than is caught up, his personal phone lighting up with the name of a famous Hollywood actor. The warmth with which he answers the call is disorienting, a reminder that while Than has lost his celebrity sheen in Zag's eyes, he's still a superstar, his friendship group full of household names.

Zag slips out of the dining room, his skin itching with the need to do something. He retreats to the kitchen, figuring that making more coffee is as good a distraction as any.

The first espresso he makes he claims for himself. He throws it back greedily, hands almost shaking with adrenaline. The thought occurs that maybe it isn’t the best idea to pour coffee into an already anxious tummy. He shrugs, busying himself with a round of lattes, taking extra care to pour the frothy milk perfectly.

The group in the dining room accept the drinks gratefully, murmuring distracted thanks. For a moment, Zag is back on the main deck of the Agape Mou, bringing his guests their morning coffee as they order breakfast. He drifts back to the kitchen, marvelling at how much life has changed.

Eventually he finds himself in the comforting silence of Than's music room. He pulls the velvet upholstered bench out from under the piano, taking a seat and pressing one of the gleaming ivory keys gently. The single note sounds ominous to his ears, like the rumbling note before the hero plunges into danger in a horror film.

He sighs, pulling his phone from his pocket and dialling.

"Hey, Zag, everything okay?"

"Hey Miltos. Yeah, just feeling a bit strange. I'm pretty sure my life changed for good fifteen minutes ago, but nothing's happened. Everything's just… normal."

"I guess it'll take a while for the news to get out?"

Zag laughs. "Took all of two minutes for their phones to start ringing."

"Good news travels fast."

Zag smiles at the optimism in Miltos' voice. "Maybe. I'm scared, though."

"You seemed excited when we chatted earlier? What changed?"

"I dunno. I just thought I'd feel different, you know?" Zag swallows, trying to put the nauseous emptiness in his chest into words. "I just feel like I'm waiting for something bad to happen. Or something good, I dunno."

"Like what?"

"I honestly don't know," Zag chuckles. "You know when you've been thinking about a moment for so long you forget to think about what happens after it? Like, you forget that time has this annoying habit of moving on, and that the moment you've been building up in your head ends up passing so quickly you're not even sure it happened? Like that."

"I know what you mean. Kinda like the moment itself is a let down?"

"Yeah. Anyway, I know the next few days are gonna be tough. I'm almost too scared to look at what people are saying about us." Miltos doesn't say anything, the silence stretching out between them. "Miltos?"

"I'm here. Listen, I don't think you should look. People are pretty cruel online. No need to expose yourself to that."

"Why not? I want to know what people are saying about me."

"Look, you… you've always been the kind of person people like. Natural charm, charisma, whatever."

"And?" Zag stands up and walks across the music room, trailing a fingertip over the strings of Than's beloved Newporter Classic.

"Remember that girl who joined our class when we were seventeen? The one who didn't like you for some reason?"

"Yeah." A frown builds between Zag’s eyebrows. "She was pretty cold. Never figured out what I did to offend her."

"My point exactly. You tried to make friends with her for months. The more she looked down on you, the harder you tried. It really knocked your confidence."

"I guess." Zag leans against the undulating foam wall, feeling it give slightly under his weight. "What does that have to do with now, though?"

"You like being liked. You're a people pleaser. People online… some of them aren't gonna like you. Some of them are gonna be mean. So I don't think you should look. Just focus on your Than, leave the press and the trolls to the professionals."

"I'll think about it," Zag says softly, oily curiosity spreading in his mouth. "I, um… yeah."

"Oh, Zag," Miltos laughs. "I know you. You're gonna look. And you're gonna regret it. You know where I am when you need to talk, okay?"

"Yeah. Thanks, Miltos. Love you."

"Love you too. You're the very best of humans, you know, remember that when you look. Kalinichta, Zag."

Zag hangs up, shoving his phone into his pocket and leaving the womb-like calm of the music room. He wanders down the hallways until he finds himself in their bedroom, sitting on the chaise longue by the window and gazing out at the city laid out before him. Just last night, they made love here, worshipping each other with a kind of adoration Zag didn't know existed.

He pulls his phone from his pocket and unlocks it.

He's scrolling mindlessly through a gossip site when Than enters the room some time later.

"Here you are. Sorry I got distracted. What you doing?" Than sits down behind him and pulls him back tight against his chest, pressing an absent minded kiss just under his ear. "Oh, babe, don't read that stuff. Let Meg do it and give us the highlights."

"I read the comments," Zag whispers, still scrolling through the article, full of sensationalist speculation. "They came in faster than I could read them. They… they were so mixed. Some people were like, love is love, congrats, but some people… some people were…"

His voice catches in his chest. Than takes his phone and drops it gently to the floor, turning him over and cuddling him close. Zag's arms automatically wrap around Than's waist, snuggling against him in search of comfort and safety.

"Zag, people are cruel. Particularly when there are no repercussions for being cruel online. It doesn't mean anything."

Zag takes a shaky breath. "They're blaming me for turning you gay. Speculating about which of us tops. A lot of people think we're disgusting. That I’m disgusting. One of the gossip sites wrote that I must be a champion cocksucker to lure you away from Sophia. Another one said I'm probably using you to launch a celebrity career of my own. Than, it's… fuck, it's so unfair." Hot, angry tears dribble down his face, his chest aching with the injustice of it all.

Than wipes the tears away, his fingers gentle and his amber eyes understanding. "Babe, none of that shit matters. The people we love know the truth. You and I know the truth. We know that everything between us is real and beautiful, and no one can change that."

"I know, it's just… Hurts." Zag tucks his face into Than's neck. Than strokes gentle circles over his back, his touch reassuring but not enough to fill the gaping hole in his chest.

"It's okay, Zag. I hate to say this, but you'll get used to it. You'll grow a thicker skin," he says softly, pressing a kiss onto the top of his head. "I love you. We're doing this because we both chose it, because we choose to be together. That's nobody's business but our own. Nothing they say can change that."

"I love you too," Zag mumbles, his face hot and damp against Than's neck. "I just didn't expect it to hurt this much."

"I know." Than’s hand strokes reassuringly up and down Zag's spine. "I know. Just breathe, babe. We'll get through it together. I promise."

They sit quietly for a while, long enough that Zag's breath steadies, the tension subsiding a little under his cherished partner's hands. He sighs heavily, moving until he's kneeling on the chaise longue, his hands floating to cup Than's face.

"Thank you," he mumbles, bringing their lips together in a chaste kiss. "I'm sorry."

"You have nothing to be sorry for." Than kisses the tip of his nose, eyes full of sympathy. "I'm here for you. Whatever happens. Whatever it takes. Okay?"

"Okay." Zag lets his eyes slide shut as he kisses Than again.

"Want a drink? Alcoholic or otherwise? Or a nap? A bath? How can I help?"

"You're already helping," Zag mutters, crawling off the chaise longue and tugging Than upright. He feels simultaneously cherished and embarrassed, unused to needing Than's reassurance. It's usually the other way round, him offering Than comfort when his insecurities creep out into view. "Hey, asteri mou, how come you're okay with all the crap people say about you? I thought… I dunno, I thought…"

"You thought I was the one with all the hangups?" Than smiles, tugging him towards the bathroom.

"Well… yeah." Zag feels his cheeks starting to flush.

Than holds a washcloth under the tap for a moment, squeezing the excess water out before wiping it delicately over Zag's face. "I don't care what the public thinks, really. Their opinion doesn't matter to me. Yours, though… I care a lot about what you think of me."

Zag closes his eyes, buying time as Than gently cleans his face. The asymmetry of their insecurity troubles him more than he cares to admit. How can he feel secure and comfortable in Than's love, and yet insecure and judged by people he doesn't know?

"Don't overthink it, babe," Than says softly. "There's something about the opinion of the general public, the weight of it. It feels so substantial even though it really isn't. In a month all this will be a distant memory, and the public will be distracted by something else."

Zag gazes up at him, knowing he should be reassured and yet still feeling entirely overwhelmed. "I'll try to remember."

"I'm here, whatever you need." Than stoops to kiss his forehead, the brush of his lips tender and sweet. "Wanna watch some mindless TV with me? Love Island?"

"Don't you need to talk to people?" Zag asks, following Than out of the bathroom.

"People can wait. You're my priority. Watch TV here or in the living room?"

“Let’s stay here?"

It feels opulent and lazy to lie in bed in the middle of the day, cosy enough to lift a little of the weight on Zag’s shoulders. He cuddles against Than's side as an episode of Love Island starts to play. He’s lost track of where they are in the season, but it doesn't matter, the episodes are light and glossy enough to be entertaining regardless.

"Remember when we watched this for the first time?" Zag asks, trying to chase his anxiety away with nostalgia.

"Yeah, of course. I think I was falling in love with you even then." Than slips his hand under the hem of Zag's t-shirt and strokes his lower back with a gentle thumb. "I watched you when you fell asleep on me, you know. Considered closing my eyes and falling asleep with you."

"I'm glad you didn't. I’d have panicked if I'd woken up in the morning in your cabin."

"I figured, that's why I woke you. Falling asleep with you would have been the perfect end to a nearly perfect day, though." Than brushes another tender kiss over his forehead.

"Nearly perfect?" Zag asks, certain he knows what Than's answer will be but wanting to hear it anyway.

"I thought the most we'd have was a fling."

"Yeah, me too. I kept reminding myself that internationally famous, smoking hot rock stars don't get into relationships with yacht crew members born on tiny Greek islands." Zag squeezes Than's waist, gratitude tugging at the corners of his lips.

Than chuckles. "Turns out internationally famous rock stars fall head over heels in love with gorgeous, kind, incredibly sweet yacht crew members born on tiny Greek islands. I'm so grateful to Hypnos for booking the Agape Mou. How would I have found my Agape Mou otherwise?"

Zag grabs his hand, weaving their fingers together on top of Than's abs. "So romantic."

"Did I say it right?" Than’s lips find Zag's forehead again.

"Not quite. It's a term of endearment, you use it the same way I call you asteri mou."

"Okay. I'll remember for next time, agape mou."

"Perfect," Zag smiles, cuddling as close to Than as possible, unconcerned that he can barely see the TV.

They lie in cosy silence for a while, half watching the TV and half enjoying the warmth of each other’s arms. The tension of the public’s judgement slips slowly from Zag’s shoulders, dimming but not diminishing completely, leaving him semi-relaxed with his cheek pillowed on Than’s chest.

A soft knock on the bedroom door disturbs their peace.

“You guys dressed? Can I come in?”

“Yeah, Hyp,” Than calls, making no effort to move.

Hypnos pushes the door open and pads into their bedroom, perching on the end of the bed. “You okay, Zag?”

“Yeah.” Zag briefly considers sitting up before he decides he’s entirely too comfortable in Than’s arms. “I read some of the coverage. Most of the comments. Didn’t feel great.”

Hypnos makes a sympathetic noise. “Don’t read that shit. Meg and I will do it, let you both know what’s going on at a high level. You don’t need the details.”

“That’s what I told him,” Than murmurs, kissing Zag’s forehead again.

“You know, this one wasn’t always so calm about the coverage.” Hypnos nods at his recumbent twin. “First negative review he got, he moped for a week. It takes a while to build up the kind of thick skin you need in this business. You’ll get through it, promise.”

“Thanks, Hypnos,” Zag mumbles, feeling increasingly awkward lying down cuddling Than with his brother in the room. He struggles upright, stretching his back and smiling when Than winds his arm around his waist. “How are the calls going?”

“Good, most of the people calling are open minded enough to be at least polite. Meg’s working on a shortlist of journalists who’ll write a balanced article, when you’re ready you can choose. Looking at an online piece for now, of course, print to follow. David Falcon’s people already called, Than, they want you back on the show as soon as possible.”

“Figures.” Than rolls his eyes. “I bet they want to draw attention to what happened last time I was on the show.”

“Absolutely. Wouldn’t be surprised if they bring out the footage again, make a point about you singing about forbidden love or something like that. They want Zag, too.”

Fear flashes up Zag’s throat, his skin tingling as he imagines what it’d be like to do a TV interview with Than. “Uh… I’m not sure about that.”

“It’s okay, babe,” Than says, stroking his back. “You don’t have to do it. Or if you want, you can stand with the show producers behind the cameras, let the audience see you, be involved but not in the spotlight. We can paint a picture that you’re shy. Whatever you want.”

“That doesn’t sound too bad,” Zag muses, focusing on the feeling of Than’s fingers against his spine.

“It’d be cute, actually. Tease the viewers a little, have Than and David Falcon play up the fact that you’re just out of shot.” Hypnos pushes off the bed, ambling over to the bedroom door. “Anyway, discuss it, there’s plenty of time to decide. No need to make decisions tonight if you don’t want to. You guys want dinner?”

“Yeah, I’m getting hungry,” Than replies. “Zag, what about you?”

“I could eat.”

“Wanna cook with me? Keep ourselves busy? Dusa won’t mind.”

“Sure, sounds nice.” Zag struggles off the bed, turning the TV off and holding a hand out to his boyfriend.

The three of them walk to the kitchen together, Hypnos updating Than on everyone who’s called his phone since he left to find Zag. Hypnos grabs another can of Coke from the fridge before wandering off to the dining room, waving at them cheerily as he departs to work through the enquiries with Meg.

“What do you want to eat, babe?” Than pulls the fridge doors open and peers inside.

“Something with vegetables. The Taco Bell I had for lunch wasn’t exactly nourishing.” Zag leans against the counter, admiring Than’s ass as he riffles through the vegetable crisper.

“If ogling my ass makes you feel better, I’ll stay here all night.” Than wiggles his hips, pulling the briestest of chuckles from Zag’s lips. “How about Thai green curry? We have all the ingredients for fresh paste, and there are sweet peppers, baby corn and snow peas in here too.”

“Haven’t eaten much Thai food. Spicy?”

“If you want it to be.” Than carries an armful of vegetables over to the counter, putting them down beside Zag. “You chop the peppers, I’ll make the paste.”

Zag works his way through the pile, chopping and slicing while Than does something with a heavy pestle and mortar that fills the entire kitchen with the scent of garlic and lemongrass. When the paste is made, Than shows him how to turn on the rice cooker and readies a wok on the biggest burner on the stove. Zag chooses a bottle from the built-in wine storage, removing the cork to let it breathe while they wait for the rice to steam.

“Any thoughts on the interview? Meg’s going to ask if we have a preference when we eat.”

“Maybe someone from a queer publication? Or a queer journalist? We could make a point,” Zag suggests, unsure if his suggestion even makes sense.

“Interesting idea. Let’s see who’s on Meg’s shortlist. I like the idea of supporting a queer website, but the exposure might not be broad enough.”

“Makes sense. How do these things usually work, anyway?”

“Well, we’ll invite whoever we choose here, since it’s probably carnage downstairs. We can either meet them in the office if you want something a bit more formal, or in the living room if you want casual. Meg’ll give them a list of topics we won’t talk about, and a list of things we’d specifically like to cover. She’ll be in the room with us, if the questions start going in a direction we’re not comfortable with, she’ll intervene.”

“Okay.” Zag pictures the scene, reassured by the thought of Meg keeping the journalist on track. “That doesn’t sound too bad. What kind of topics won’t we talk about?”

“Well, historically I’ve refused to talk about relationships. Not this time, obviously. But we’ll make it clear that we’re not gonna talk about our sex life. If you want, we can stipulate that your childhood or your family is off limits too.”

Zag’s mouth drops open. “Journalists would ask about our sex life?”

“Maybe,” Than shrugs. “The calibre of person we’re gonna talk to wouldn’t expect a direct answer, but they might interject something just to see how we react. Like, an offhand comment about whether I’m good in bed. If you blushed, or smirked, that’d be something they could wrap into an article.”

“God,” Zag mutters. “I don’t know how you do this, Than.”

“Meg makes it a lot easier. She’s got a pretty fierce reputation. Someone agrees not to ask something and then they do, she goes after them hard. Don’t worry, babe, she’s the best.” The rice cooker beeps three times. “Rice is done. Lemme just go tell the others to clear the dining table, then we can make the curry.”

Zag hovers behind Than’s shoulder as he cooks, inhaling the rich, mellow scent rising from the wok until his mouth waters uncontrollably. He scoops rice into shallow bowls from the rice cooker, lining them up beside his love to make it easy for him to ladle the steaming curry from wok to bowl, admiring the contrast of the bright green sauce against the pure white rice.

They carry the food and the wine through to the dining room together, sitting down with Hypnos, Meg, and Charon to share a relaxed meal after the madness of the afternoon. Than asks Meg to forgo the rundown of the press and public reaction while they eat, glancing at Zag supportively as he does.

After dinner, they open another bottle of wine and listen to Meg’s summary, Than’s hand reassuringly heavy on Zag’s thigh. They discuss the available journalists for an interview tomorrow, accepting Meg’s suggestion and working through the list of off limits topics.

By the time Meg, Hypnos, and Charon leave, Zag is so tired he can barely keep his eyes open. They retire to bed early, reading in comfortable silence side by side for a while before they turn the lights off. Than cuddles against Zag’s back with an arm wrapped protectively around his waist, pressing three tender kisses along his shoulder.

Cocooned in the warmth of his love’s arms, Zag lies awake, a thousand journalists questioning him relentlessly in his imagination.

Chapter Text

“You’re sure you want to do this, babe?” Than asks, gazing at Zag across the dining table.

“Yeah. We need to, right? The label…” Zag sighs, his eyes shadowed with lack of sleep.

“Fuck the label. If you don’t want to do it, we’ll won’t do it.” Than tears his eyes away from his boyfriend’s face to smile at Dusa as she places their breakfast in front of them. “Thanks, Dusa.”

“Thanks,” Zag echoes, his voice almost a mumble. “Appreciate you making poached eggs.”

“It’s no trouble at all!” Dusa fills their glasses with fresh orange juice and backs away towards the kitchen. “Let me know if you want anything else!”

“Zag,” Than murmurs, watching him cut into an egg, glossy yellow spreading over the buttered toast beneath it. “Seriously. All that matters to me is how you’re feeling. You look tired.”

“Didn’t sleep so well.” Zag keeps eyes fixed on his breakfast. He sighs again, cutting off a corner of toast dripping with yolk and lifting it to his mouth, chewing slowly.

“You could take a nap after breakfast? Or we can cancel. Whatever you want.”

“Not sure I’ll be able to nap. And we shouldn’t cancel the interview. I don’t want them to win.” Zag’s eyes flicker upwards to meet Than’s, a sliver of defiance crowding his exhaustion.

“Okay, babe.” Than works his way through his omelette, washing it down with sips of tangy juice. “You should relax though. How about we get my masseuse to come by? Hard not to relax when someone’s massaging your scalp.”

“I’ve never had a massage,” Zag says, dark eyebrows raising. “Good?”

“Oh yeah. I’ll ask the assistants to arrange it after breakfast. There’s a treatment room just next to the gym, pretty quiet in there. Alright?”

“Thanks, asteri mou. You spoil me.” A tiny smile curves Zag’s lips.

“I just want to help you get through this. In whatever way I can.” Than reaches across the table, taking Zag’s hand in his and squeezing it gently.

Finishing breakfast one handed turns out to be quite doable when you’re motivated enough, Than finds.

Zag wanders off to call his mother, leaving Than to email his assistants. A few minutes later, his phone chimes with a reply, confirming that his favourite masseuse is available and will arrive at the penthouse in an hour. He texts Dusa to let her know and follows Zag to their bedroom, knocking on the door softly when he arrives.

The muffled conversation is cut short. “Yeah?”

“It’s me, can I come in?”

“Yeah, of course.”

Zag sits on the chaise longue by the window, his phone held up in front of his face. The cool morning light dances in his hair, and for the hundredth time this week, Than basks in the knowledge that this beautiful man is his, hopefully for good. His eyes flicker up from the screen, lips automatically curving into a smile as their gazes collide.

“Is Thanatos there?” Persephone’s voice sounds tinny through the phone’s speakers. Even with the poor sound quality, Than can hear her tone lacks its usual warmth. Zag taps the device, presumably flipping to the rear facing camera. “Ah, Thanatos! Sit, sit, tell me what you’re doing to keep my boy safe.”

Zag rolls his eyes, patting the space beside him. Than sits, kissing Zag's cheek quickly while he switches back to the front facing camera. "Hey Persephone. How're you?"

"Fine, Thanatos, certainly doing better than my son," Persephone snaps, the space between her brows scored with deep lines. "Have you seen what people are saying about him?"

"I have," Than says carefully, wrapping an arm around Zag's waist. "He's safe, don't worry. We're staying inside for a few days. Most of what you read is harmless, people will move on in a few weeks."

"Most?" Persephone asks, frown lines deepening. Zag turns to look at him, an eyebrow raised.

"The public can be cruel and hateful, but it really doesn't mean anything." Than keeps his expression calm as he curses himself.

"What do you mean most, Than?" Zag asks, gazing up at him with anxious eyes.

"There are a couple of people who are… overly interested in me. Try to get into my properties, intercept me between the car and wherever I'm going, that sort of thing." Than risks looking away from Zag's phone, smiling reassuringly at his partner. "It's fine, babe, Charon has it under control. We're always safe."

Zag nods, his eyes trusting beneath the tiredness.

"I'm not entirely sure I believe that, Thanatos. The things they're calling my son–"

"You don't need to repeat them, Mama," Zag says hurriedly, looking back at his mother. "It was bound to happen. I knew what I was getting into when I decided to come here and go public. I'm… I'm upset, but Than's taking care of me."

Than hugs Zag into his side. "Give it a few weeks, Persephone. The hate will die down. And in the meantime I'll protect him. I promise. I won't let anything happen to your son."

"You had better, Thanatos," Persephone glowers, her usually sunny features severe. "If it weren't for you, he'd be safe at home." Zag opens his mouth to speak, Persephone quickly shushing him. "No, Zagreus, I know you chose this and you think he's worth it. It's your choice, agori mou. You can't blame me for worrying."

"We can't," Than sighs. "If it helps, I can give you my mom's number? She's used to the public scrutiny now, but she felt the same as you do, once."

"I would like that very much. Has she met my Zagreus yet?"

"Not yet, but she can't wait." Than can feel Zag’s gaze burning into the side of his face.

"Mama, we need to go," Zag interjects. "I'll call you soon, okay? I love you."

"I love you too, agori mou. Take care of yourself."

Zag ends the call, slumping into Than's embrace. "You really want to introduce our mothers?"

"Sorry, babe, it just slipped out. I thought my mom might be able to help."

"I'm sure she will, it's just… I haven't even met her yet." Zag pushes Than gently until he's reclining against the high back of the chaise longue, curling up against him and pillowing his cheek against his chest.

"You will," Than murmurs, burying his face in Zag's hair. "Soon, I promise. We'll go visit as soon as we can."

"Okay." Zag’s arms tighten around his waist.

They sit quietly for a while, holding each other close until the distant sound of the doorbell interrupts them.

"Ah, guess that’s the masseuse. Still interested, babe? I can send her away if you've changed your mind."

"Won't she have read the stories?" Zag asks quietly, his fingers tightening in Than's t-shirt.

"Maybe. She's been coming here for years, though, she's not going to judge. All her clients are celebrities."

"Okay. Thanks for setting it up." Zag sits up, leaning forward to brush his lips slowly over Than's. "What do I do? I've never had a massage before."

"She'll walk you through it, don't worry. Just tell her where you're feeling tense and she'll do the rest. Have a couple hours, as long as you like." Than clambers off the chaise longue, helping Zag up and taking his hand as they walk out of their bedroom. "Mind if I work out while you're in the treatment room? I'll be quiet."

"Of course. I like having you close by."

He leaves Zag in Samira's capable hands, changing into his workout gear and heading into the gym. An hour's run, an hour's weights, and he's done, wondering whether Zag enjoyed his first massage.

He's just tugging his headphones off when Dusa knocks on the frosted glass door, pushing it open and walking just inside the threshold.

"Mister Than, Samira just left. She told me to let you know that Mister Zag's dozing in the treatment room. His shoulders were really tight, she said."

"Thanks Dusa. I'll go check on him. Did Meg call about the interview?"

"Yes, she said she'll be up at two, and the journalist will be here at three. Should I make you some lunch?"

"Yes please. Chicken salad would be great. And would you mind running a bath?" Zag will need to wash the oil off, and a bath should keep him as relaxed as possible in the process.

"Of course." Dusa smiles. "I'll have lunch ready in an hour. Take your time."

She slips out of the gym, leaving Than to towel himself dry of the worst of the sweat. He throws the damp towel into the wash basket, chugging the rest of his water before he knocks gently on the treatment room door.

"Yeah?" Zag mumbles from inside, his voice thick and drowsy.

Than pushes the door open carefully. The room is dimly lit, flickering candles in honey coloured glass jars dotted around the space. Zag lies on his back on the cushioned massage table, a soft grey blanket draped over his body. The air smells of lavender and bergamot, mellow and relaxing.

"Good massage, babe?" He pads quietly across the floor and strokes Zag's hair away from his face.

"Mmm. So good." Zag sighs. "So sleepy."

"Why don't you nap?" Than leans over him, brushing the lightest of kisses over his lips. "I'll come get you in an hour."

"No," Zag grumbles. He shakes the blanket away, grabbing at Than's arm weakly. "Stay."

"You want me to stay and watch you sleep?" Than smiles, stroking a fingertip over his dozing lover's cheekbone and down his neck. His skin is slick with fragrant oil, even his face. "Samira did your face too?"

"Whole body," Zag mumbles, leaning into Than's touch. "Feel like a puddle. Kiss me."

Than laughs softly, leaning over the table and kissing his boyfriend sweetly. Zag's arms wind around his neck, holding him in place in a wordless demand for more kisses. Than indulges him, pressing kiss after kiss on his plush lips, enjoying the heady scent rising from his warm skin.

Zag kisses him back sleepily at first. After a while he seems to come alive, the tip of his tongue running teasingly over Than's lower lip, his arms tightening around his neck, trying to pull Than down on top of him.

"Zag, the table probably won't take our combined weight," Than chides, an amused grin curving his lips.

"Want you.” Zag’s eyes blink open in the dim light, gazing at Than with such adoration it almost takes his breath away.

"Can't have me here, babe." He dips to kiss Zag's earlobe and enjoys the predictable shiver that results. "But if you want me to, I can give you a happy ending."

Zag giggles softly, his eyes dancing. "So romantic."

"Sorry. If you want me to, I can worship you with my hands. Better?"

"Mmm, yeah." Zag pulls him close for another kiss, the kind that turns heavy and breathless with the first swipe of tongue.

Than pushes the blanket down, trailing his hand down Zag's sternum and over his pectoral muscle. His skin glistens with oil, Than's fingers sliding with ease to caress his nipple. Zag shudders beneath him, his breath escaping his lips in a deep sigh. He can't resist sliding his hand lower, teasing Zag's hardening cock with his fingers. Zag gasps, his eyes opening again, close enough Than is able to watch his pupils dilate.

"Let me go for a sec," Than whispers, kissing his partner's nose. Zag's arms drop back to the bed, freeing Than to grab a bottle of oil from the shelf behind him. Zag shifts, clearly about to sit up, but Than places his palm gently against his chest, pressing him back down. "Lay back. I've got you."

He pumps the oil into his hands, warming it between his palms and inhaling the rising scent of lavender and bergamot. He slides his hands deliberately over Zag's hips, tracing the line of dark hair until his fingers slip along his length. Zag sighs, his hips flexing upwards as Than strokes him, his movements gliding slick with oil.

When he's fully hard, Than curls his fingers around him, jerking him gently. Zag’s breath catches in his chest as Than squeezes, moving his hand slowly up and down.

"I love you," Than murmurs, sliding his hand down Zag's length with one hand and immediately following with the other.

"Love you too." Zag’s eyebrows raise as Than strokes him in an endless loop, working his hot, swollen length in a slow, deliberate rhythm.

"You gonna come for me, babe?" Than speeds his movements, biting his lip at the beautiful sight before him. Zag's skin glistens and gleams in the low light, his cheeks, chest and cock flushed a gorgeous shade of red. "I want to see you come for me. You look so hot right now."

Zag moans, his eyes sliding to where Than's hands are steadily working his cock before they flicker back up to Than's face. "Love you, asteri mou. You make me feel so good. God, your hands…"

Than squeezes Zag tight, delighting in the slick sound of his oil slick hands against his perfect cock. Zag’s hips twitch, breathy moans falling from his lips as he climbs closer and closer.

Mouth watering, Than bends over him, sliding his hand down to the base of Zag's cock and running his teeth lightly over the head, sucking him into his wanting mouth.

Zag lets out a strangled cry, his cock pulsing as he finds his peak, flooding Than's mouth with come and smearing his lips with oil.

Than suckles him gently through his orgasm,pulling his mouth away only when Zag sinks back into the softness of the bed.

"Oh, Than. You're so good to me."

Than kisses him, wiping his oily hands discreetly on the edge of the blanket. "You deserve everything, agape mou."

When Zag catches his breath, Than wraps him in the blanket and carries him back to their bedroom, taking him straight to the bath and lowering him gently into the steaming water.

They relax together, exchanging loving kisses in a drowsy, comfortable silence. Than refuses to let Zag lift a finger, washing his hair and his body with equal care and attention, cuddling him against his chest when they're both clean.

By the time they're dry and dressed, Zag looks more like his usual self. The shadows in his eyes have receded, as has the tension in his jaw.

"Feel okay, babe?" Than puts down the hairdryer, bending to drop a kiss into Zag's silky hair.

"Yeah, loads better." Zag smiles at him in the mirror. "Thanks for helping me relax. How're you feeling?"

"I'm okay. The press have talked shit about me for years. And the people I count as friends have all been supportive, so… all good."

"You're not worried about the label, or your career?" Zag raises an eyebrow questioningly.

"Too early to tell. We'll see how the new album does, see if there's demand for a tour." Than checks his phone for the time. "Meg'll be here soon. You ready?"

Zag stands, climbing over the stool and drawing him into a tight hug. "Yeah. Ready as I'll ever be."

Meg is waiting for them in the dining room along with three bowls of chicken salad. She glances down at their entwined hands with a smile as they walk through from the hallway. "You two. Rob will be here soon for hair and makeup, and Zerina sent through some outfit suggestions. We're keeping it a little more casual, so you guys can choose."

"Decent photographer?" Than asks, taking a seat and grabbing his fork, suddenly starving.

"Yeah. We've got veto rights on the shot they want to use. Zag, any questions before we get started?"

Zag swallows his mouthful before he replies. "What happens if I don't know what to say?"

"If you're uncomfortable with the question, just look over at me and I'll deflect it. If you're not sure how to respond, just look up at Than through those long lashes of yours and he'll take over. He's a pro."

Than smiles at him across the table. "You'll be fine. Just pretend the journalist is a nosy client on the yacht."

"Good idea. I can do that."

Rob arrives a few minutes after they finish their lunch. They hustle back to the bedroom, following Zerina's recommendations as they pull clothes from the walk-in closet. Zag ends up in a pair of grey trousers and a tight white t-shirt, reminding Than of their date night on the yacht. He smiles, remembering how delicious he looked, the thrill of seeing him in his own clothes after nearly two weeks of seeing him in his burgundy and tan uniform.

Rob knocks on their bedroom door before Than can share the memory with his boyfriend, ready to prep them for the interview. Half an hour later they're sitting hand in hand on the couch, their poses deliberately casual as they wait.

Chapter Text

"Thanatos looks over at Zagreus frequently throughout the conversation. His gaze shifts involuntarily, as if he just can't help himself."

Meg reads out loud, her iPad resting in her lap as she sits in one of the jet’s comfy recliners.

"He totally can't," Than murmurs from across the table, the last of his lunch abandoned in favour of holding Zag’s hand. "He's got it bad."

"Talking about yourself in the third person is really weird, asteri mou." Zag grins, his stomach fluttering with the sweetness of Than's attention.

"Boys, you’ve got the rest of the flight to flirt, will you let me finish reading the article?" Meg rolls her eyes, signalling the steward and pointing at her empty glass.

"Sorry, Meg." Zag pulls his fingers away from Than's, settling back into the leather seat.

"Yeah, sorry, please carry on." Than’s smile doesn’t hold a single hint of apology, his amber eyes still fixed on Zag's face.

"Thank you," Meg says, a trace of sarcasm in her voice. "For all the accusations of queerbaiting and publicity stunts, rock's favourite smouldering bad boy has changed. His signature arrogant confidence is still front and centre, but every now and then the tiniest hint of vulnerability shines through. For years, this writer has wondered who Thanatos really is beneath his perfectly polished facade. Perhaps a simple yacht hand from Mykonos will help us find out."

"I'm not from Mykonos," Zag mutters.

"Accuracy is too much to ask with these people." Meg shrugs. "At least it's a small detail."

"You're also not a simple yacht hand." Than leans over, grabbing Zag’s hand and squeezing. "But Meg's right. The article isn't bad at all."

"I'd actually go as far as quite good." Meg accepts a glass of water from the steward, nodding her thanks. "They didn't really misquote either of you, and they didn't twist Zag's reaction when they asked if he'd seduced celebrities on the boat before."

"What kind of question is that, anyway?" Zag grumbles, feeling his cheeks flush pink with annoyance all over again.

"Fairly unsurprising one. Sorry, babe. Journalists are assholes."

"Assholes who help us sell tour tickets," Meg retorts. "Alright, I'm gonna go get a nap. Keep your clothes on, please."

"If we must," Than sighs, rolling his eyes dramatically. "What d’you wanna do, Zag?"

"Is it okay if I send a few messages?" Zag replies, tapping his phone. "Anna texted me again this morning. She's loving every moment of my so-called celebrity lifestyle."

"Sure, go for it. Mind if I mess around with my Newporter?"

"Course not. I love listening to you play."

Than slides out of his seat, leaning over the table for a kiss before he wanders off to grab his guitar.

Zag watches him walk away, admiring his ass before he unlocks his phone. He connects his phone to the jet's wifi, eyebrows raising as it vibrates with a fresh stream of messages from his friends.

He taps the message thread with Anna first.

I read the article!
They got so many details wrong
I can just imagine you saying "yacht" every time they said boat
How's my favourite celebrity trophy wife?

I told you, stop calling me a trophy wife

Aaaaahhh you're online!

Yeah. We're on Than's jet heading to LA
Going to an awards ceremony, can you believe it?

Trophy wife 😉
What's it like travelling on a private jet?

Pretty amazing.
There's a steward to bring us food and drinks
Comfy chairs and couches
I mean this is only the second time I've flown, like, ever
But it's great

Joined the mile high club yet? 😝

Nope
Meg and Charon with us

No Hypnos?

Nah, he's staying in New York
Something about streaming rights

Oh okay
So do you think he's ever had sex on the plane??

Hypnos?

Obviously not
Thanatos

I don't know
Not sure I want to know

You need to find a way to get him alone
Get him to blow you 😏

ANNA😲😤
We're not having this conversation

Fiiiiiiiine 😅
Where are you staying in LA?

The Beverly Hills Hotel
We have a bungalow
Apparently most of the artists in town stay there

Fancy! So jealous
When can I come out and see you?

When things calm down a bit
Promise

I wanna live the trophy wife dream

🙄

Just kidding, Zag
Anyway it's late here
Just finished tidying the galley
Last booking for the year until NYE

I miss you and Daniel and the Agape Mou
Take care of yourselves
Say hello to everyone for me

Will do, Zag
Miss you too! 😘

Sleep well! 😊

Zag replies to the other unread messages, snapping a quick photo of himself and sending it to Mama. He’s so happy to have connected with his friends and family back home. They're like an anchor, reminding him of his life back in Greece and keeping him grounded in the surreal storm that is Than’s life. He lets his thoughts drift back to the wedding. The raw joy of watching two of his closest friends get hitched, and the regret of kissing Dani on the dancefloor. It feels like years ago already.

He stands, walking carefully towards Than, who’s sprawled on a leather couch with his beloved Newporter in his lap. His boyfriend smiles at him, moving smoothly into a song as he approaches. The chords sound familiar, even more so when Than starts humming, adding a melody into the mix.

"What is that?" Zag frowns, the knowledge dancing teasingly just out of reach.

Than's smile widens, his lips parting to add lyrics to the melody, singing soft and intimate just for him.

It takes Zag’s brain a moment to realise he's singing in Greek.

His mouth drops open. Than's eyes crinkle at the edges, his happiness evident as Zag finally places the song.

"Are you singing Nikos Vertis?" he asks, amazed.

"S’ agapao tin kardhia mou allou dhe spatalao," Than sings, his face breaking into a beautiful smile.

"Do you even know what you're singing?" Zag giggles, his heart soaring with delight and disbelief.

"I love you, I'm not wasting my heart on anyone else, according to the internet." Than’s fingers move gently over the strings of his guitar, repeating the chorus effortlessly. "Accurate?"

"Close enough." Zag drops down next to him, an inane grin stretched over his face. "You learned it just for me?"

"Yeah. I only need to listen to a song a couple times before I can play it intuitively. The lyrics take a little longer. I'd learn Nikos Vertis' entire back catalogue if it'd make you happy."

"Aww." Zag just can't wipe the gleeful smile off his face, barely caring that he probably looks like a grinning idiot. "You're so sweet."

"Anything for you." Than keeps playing, his voice caressing the familiar melody and transforming it forever. When the song reaches its end, he inclines his head at Zag’s enthusiastic applause. "I think I'm gonna take a nap, babe. LA's three hours behind New York, not a big difference, but we'll want to stay up tonight to adjust."

"Oh, that's a good idea. I don't think I could sleep, though, I'm totally awake."

"I've travelled so much I can sleep wherever, whenever. You sure you don't want to try? You'll be tired later."

"Nah, but you go ahead. I'll read."

"Alright." Than takes his guitar back to its case, laying it down reverently before he returns to the couch. "Can I put my head in your lap?”

"I’d like that. Could you grab my book for me first?"

"Sure." Than riffles through Zag's backpack, returning with a battered paperback. "Alice in Wonderland?"

"Yeah." Zag blushes, taking the book and arranging himself comfortably against the cream leather. "I can sympathise with a lot of what Alice has to work through. You know, finding herself in a different world."

"Am I your Cheshire cat?" Than stretches out on the couch and shuffles his head onto Zag's thighs. "Glad you're wearing sweatpants."

"I live to serve as your pillow." Zag smiles, gazing down at him and stroking his hair back from his face. He remembers that afternoon in Mama’s garden, Than asleep on the blanket in the sun. "If you're my Cheshire cat, you're a lot less confusing. Sometimes you grin as big as he does, though."

"Meow." Than closes his eyes, exhaling a long, satisfied breath. "Wake me if your legs go to sleep, okay?"