Archive of Our Own

xx

Ratio looks absolutely sinful like this.

An embroidered silk blindfold draped over those pretty amber eyes of his. Strong arms cuffed behind his back with the finest midnight blue lambskin leather and gold chain that money can buy— matching the custom collar around his throat. His deltoids stand out in stark relief, as do the shadows beneath his generous tits.

The low light catches on the heavy golden hoops threaded through each stiff, dusky nipple, the chain that links them shimmering with each labored breath the doctor takes.

Aventurine smiles to himself, gloved fingers pressed against the curve of his mouth as he nestles back into his armchair. It’s too easy to tug the sapphire-studded leash clipped to the cock ring encircling Ratio’s straining family jewels— all so he can enjoy the reaction of the naked, chained man standing at attention before him.

A sharp breath, those plush lips parting. Chest heaving outward, defined abdominal muscles shivering. A heavy twitch of that lovely, thick cock. Precum beads glossy alongside the heavy golden hoop that crowns the tip and nestles into the slit, matching the jewelry on his nipples.

It’s no secret that Aventurine likes his men adorned— specifically, in things he’s bought just for them— and Ratio’s secret penchant for naughty piercings has only given him that much more room to stake his claim.

“Not getting bored, are you?” It’s a well-worn tease. Ratio complains about the lack of stimulation, Aventurine gives him something to really cry about.

“I’ve had more memorable evenings,” Ratio replies, weight even on both his feet, schooling his voice admirably. Still, Aventurine can hear the breathy desire underlying it. “Are you enjoying your cocktail?”

He’s barely touched it, in all honesty. He’s mostly been sitting here for the last several minutes just staring at Ratio’s damn near perfect body and musing, as he often does, how strange and lucky it is that they’ve stumbled their way into this.

Aventurine reaches for the glass and brings it to his lips, making an exaggerated noise of pleasure as he sips. Ratio doesn’t move, though his cock twitches again. It loves to betray him, and Aventurine loves it all the more for clearly aligning with his interests rather than its owner’s.

“Delicious,” he murmurs, setting his drink aside on the side table. Time to mix things up.

Aventurine rises from the chair and tugs Ratio’s leash harder, without warning. “Come on. I’m tired of sitting in here.”

Ratio stumbles after him, and Aventurine doesn’t have to look to know he’s flushing. Anything that makes him look ungainly, ungraceful… it’s absolute anathema to his poor Veritas. So hideously embarrassing. And the more humiliated Ratio is, the better Aventurine likes him.

“You’re taking me to the kitchen,” Ratio surmises, and Aventurine laughs brightly.

“Close, but not quite. Only five points.”

“Then where—“ Ratio cuts himself off. Oh, he’s figured it out, has he? Smart boy.

Aventurine leads him by the balls through the kitchen and towards the balcony door just off the dining area. He’s only ever threatened to take Ratio outside trussed up like this. But something is making him itch tonight. He wants to see how far he can push.

“Come on, puppy,” he cajoles, saccharine as honey wine. “Time for walkies.”

This time he does turn to see the look of absolute disgust that crosses Ratio’s blindfolded face. Aw, look at him, already red in the chest and the ears. This is too easy. His favorite kind of rigged game.

“I’ve told you,” Ratio grits out. “I am not interested in being your pet.”

It’s a lie, but a harmless one. Ratio might loathe when Aventurine cutesy-talks him, but damn does he love to hate it. Loves to bicker and protest even as he’s letting himself be led around by the dick, leashed and collared and trussed up. He’s a very pampered pet, and he knows it.

“You keep saying that,” Aventurine says, blasé, reaching out to deactivate the biometric lock on the balcony door.

“Are you really…” Ratio trails off when he hears the unmistakable hiss and glide of the door, the warm Pier Point summer night air flowing over them. “Hmph. You love to chase a scandal, don’t you.”

“Don’t tell me you’re too shy,” Aventurine goads, sauntering back over to him. “I mean, just look at you, Doctor. Hardly the picture of modesty.” He traces his gloved fingertip down the center of Ratio’s chest, then plucks meanly at one of his nipple piercings.

Ah, now that’s a lovely moan. Ratio’s head drops and his hair falls forward over his face as he trembles not to run away from it— or else lean into it, knowing him.

“That is not the point,” the handsome doctor grits through his teeth, though it does nothing to stop the next groan from escaping his throat as Aventurine toys with the chain between his nipples, tugging at it just a little too sharply. “You— ahh— should consider the consequences, should someone see.”

“Funny, I don’t remember asking for your opinion,” Aventurine remarks, giving a slow, long tug that has Ratio breathing quick and shallow to try and keep his chest still, a sinuous noise of pain winding out from high in the back of his throat. Fuck, Aventurine loves those noises. The truly pitiful, pathetic little mewls are always his favorite.

“Puppies don’t get to decide when it’s time to go out, or where. They just have to follow the tug on their leash.” He wraps the slack around his hand in a few swift movements; tightening the lead once more and pulling Ratio’s cock and balls to attention. “Are you gonna be an obedient boy for me, or do I have to give you a little more incentive?”

“Hardly,” comes the clipped response, Ratio’s nostrils flaring. “If that is what you wish, then so be it.”

That’s the funny thing about Ratio— imply that he needs an extra treat for motivation and he’ll refuse it out of sheer pride. But Aventurine would bet a considerable amount that Ratio’s debating whether or not to safeword and call the whole thing off. He is, after all, notoriously private about his personal life. He doesn’t seem to share Aventurine’s exhibitionist streak, being far more of a voyeur himself.

But perhaps it’s time they put that to the test. The way Aventurine sees it, if he isn’t making Ratio hesitate over whether to pump the brakes, he’s not doing his job right. And what better test than a thirteenth-story penthouse balcony? Sure, there’s plenty of other equally tall buildings around them. Someone in a condo on the block opposite them could see, but that’s what makes it fun.

Who would even recognize Ratio without his plaster bust, anyway? (Nobody that's stupid enough to risk a Stoneheart's wrath, that's who.)

“C’mere, boy,” Aventurine murmurs, activating the motion-sensor for the balcony lights with a flick of his hand before tugging Ratio toward the door. “Let’s see how well-behaved you can be for me tonight.”

Ratio carefully steps his way forward, perhaps trying to frame his hesitation as a purely practical attempt to avoid tripping. Aventurine keeps pressure on the lead until Ratio follows him through the threshold. It’s a delight to watch him stop and shiver, his flanks twitching like a horse with a fly. It isn’t truly cold even at this elevation, not on a sultry night like this. Only the breeze is enough to bring goosebumps to Ratio’s bare skin. Or maybe it’s the exhilaration of doing something just a little bit naughty.

“Gambler…” he says, low. A warning that he might be edging towards overwhelm. Aventurine just croons, stepping closer to run his fingertips down Ratio’s upper arm before squeezing possessively at his waist.

“What a good boy, stepping outside for me,” he praises, loving how Ratio’s face twists with a conflicted scowl. His cock bobs between them, kept hard and wanting by the tight ring, and Aventurine teases at it lightly, enjoying the stifled groan he gets in return. “It doesn’t matter if anyone can see you. They can look at this handsome body all they want, but I’m the only one who gets to touch.”

Ratio’s lips part on a breath. He turns his face to the side as Aventurine presses closer, splaying his other hand over Ratio’s chest, pressing the leather of the leash to his skin.

“After all,” he goes on. “You are my pet, like it or not. Isn’t that what it says on your collar?”

Ratio swallows, his lovely throat bobbing beneath the band of leather encasing it. The one that marks him as Aventurine’s property with an embossed golden tag. They might not have anything real to speak of outside the bedroom — or the balcony— but for right now, he belongs to Aventurine and that’s all that matters.

“Yes,” Ratio says after a pause. He looks so nicely embarrassed, as if he’s fighting not to squirm. “It is.”

“And you want to please me, don’t you? I know you like that I want to show you off in all the pretty little things you wear for me.” He doesn’t give Ratio room to refute, tugging at the chain linking his nipples, making him bite back whatever he might have said.

There’s something so unbelievably heady about having a being of such powerful mind and immense physical presence humbled for him like this. Ratio has an entire head of height on Aventurine and double the muscle— an absolute specimen of a man— yet he trembles like a tiny delicate thing when Aventurine plays him right.

“Psst. You’re dripping, princess.”

Ratio moans full-throated when Aventurine runs his smooth leather glove over the head of his cock. He plays with the nicely-weighted ring before slicking the precum along Ratio’s shaft, pulling the foreskin up and over before gliding it back down. It’s such a satisfying feeling; he’d do it all day if Ratio let him.

“You got wetter when I brought you out here,” he says, and it’s even true. “I think somebody secretly likes being on display. Who knew you were such a slut for attention, hm?”

Ratio doesn’t respond, but that’s alright— his body’s giving him away plenty. Aventurine plays with him a little more, riling him up, and then abandons his cock and tugs the leash once more.

“C’mere. I want to relax with my little pet.”

He leads Ratio to the sitting area— his balcony is large enough for entertaining a small group, but Ratio’s one of the few who’s ever been out here. Aventurine usually just sits outside alone and smokes when he’s in a mood for it. But right now, he’s got far better things in mind.

He settles down onto the outdoor sofa and spreads his legs. He’s been doing a good job of ignoring his own need up until now, but seeing Ratio’s naked form under the moonlight, reflecting the late-night glow of Pier Point’s shopping district below… he doesn’t see the point in denying himself any longer.

“Kneel,” he orders, tossing a throw cushion down between his feet, with an extra tug to the leash just for fun.

Ratio carefully obeys, evidently gathering they’re in front of the sofa. “Is sitting out here really so preferable to sitting inside,” he asks, and oh, there’s a cute little note of worry in his voice. Baby’s embarrassed, still worried about people seeing that glorious naked body of his. Ratio is certainly not a prude— his routinely half-bared torso is ample evidence of that— but he’s very sensitive to context. And that’s what makes it so much fun to fuck with him.

“Ah, you feeling a little exposed, Doctor?”

Aventurine sneaks his foot between Ratio’s thighs, pressing down with the sole of his shoe and pinning Ratio's cock against his thigh. Ratio’s chest heaves, his teeth gritting as Aventurine exerts more pressure onto his shaft, which jumps and twitches all too eagerly.

“I can’t imagine what would inspire you to ask,” his lovely doctor hisses back. Aventurine ignores the comment.

“You were just dying for a little attention, weren’t ya, sweetheart? Just a little bit of this…”

He steps down harder, enjoying how red Ratio’s chest grows and how he actually struggles against his bindings for a second.

“Ah ahh… behave. If those cuffs aren’t enough, I can always Break and Imprison you.”

Ratio actually stifles a moan at that, but only just. He’s kind of a whore for being Weakness Broken in bed— and Aventurine knows how to shatter him so well by now, despite their attunement to the same element. Knows just how to render him suspended and vulnerable, incapacitated and ripe for the taking.

“I’m behaving,” Ratio insists, tongue wetting his lips. True to his word, he stops struggling. Which is a bit of a shame, really, but it’s still early. He’s not in deep enough to make foolish mistakes.

“Spoilsport,” Aventurine teases. He’s been unbuckling his belt, working on his fly, and now he shoves down his pants and underwear in one fell swoop, past his knees so they can pool at his ankles. The balmy night air feels good, the breeze teasing at his soaked pussy.

“Come here, puppy. Let’s give you something to do.”

He grips Ratio’s hair without warning, pulling him in. Ratio hisses but quickly gets with the program, blindly leaning forward and nudging his face into Aventurine’s thigh. Aventurine helps him out by scooting his ass forward on the cushion, sighing in satisfaction when Ratio’s eager mouth descends upon him.

“Just warm it for now,” he instructs, knowing Ratio wants to do much more than that. “You’ll get to suck later.”

Ratio groans, probably annoyed at having been duped into thinking he was about to be put to work. He likes to be useful, to attend to the tasks set before him and achieve something tangible— Aventurine cumming on his tongue, say. Dangling that sense of accomplishment just out of his reach is endlessly entertaining, especially considering how absolutely cunt-drunk Ratio gets when he’s just made to sit there with his mouth on Aventurine. He can’t bitch up a storm like this; all he can do is swallow and slowly get softer, more pliant.

Aventurine relaxes as they settle into it, his cunt absolutely throbbing. The press of Ratio’s mouth, the warmth of his breath, the accidental hint of suction when he carefully swallows. Fastidious bastard hates to be caught drooling, which naturally makes Aventurine want to induce it all the more.

He kinda wishes he had his cocktail now, or his phone— Ratio loves being ignored when he’s like this, which usually suits Aventurine just fine. But he doesn’t have any of his distractions on hand, having acted purely on a whim to bring Ratio outside. Instead, he strokes his hand through the soft, loose curls crowning Ratio’s head, scritching ever so slightly at his scalp.

He knows Ratio’s eyes are fluttering under the blindfold; man’s an utter whore for having his hair played with, under the right circumstances.

“You’re so easy like this,” Aventurine muses, idly twisting a lock of midnight violet around his fingers. “Such a reputation for being difficult, impossible to control. Doesn’t play well with others, hard to please… and yet, you kneel for me like you were born for it. Kinda feels like I’ve got your cheat codes, Doc.”

Ratio breathes hard out his nose, not responding. He’s still dutifully keeping his mouth sealed over Aventurine’s cunt, and damn, what a sight that is— he looks too good with his chest pressed to the edge of the sofa, his arms held taut behind his back. The lights of the city play over his smooth skin, the swells and dips of his muscles. The shadows of his ribs shift with his breath, and his hair feels so damned soft…

Aventurine loves blindfolding him, because he can touch and stare as much as he wants without worry.

After all, it wouldn’t do to let Ratio see the stupid longing that’s probably all over his face right now. It’s hardest to hide it when he knows he can’t be seen, so Aventurine lets the pretense fall away as he continues to stroke Ratio’s hair, looking his fill and thoroughly caught up in the power thrumming through him right now.

“Guess I’m lucky you’re such a needy thing, deep down,” he muses, teasing his fingers along the edge of the silken blindfold. “Extra lucky to catch you in such a moment of weakness that first time, huh? No taking that one back, not now that I’ve seen how well the proud doctor can beg.”

Ratio breathes through his nose, the whuffs against Aventurine’s mound growing quicker.

“Remember how quickly you folded?” Aventurine goes on, blithe. “What was it you said? ‘Use me as you see fit?’ Normally that’s my line, but damn if it doesn’t sound good coming from your lips.”

He slowly, teasingly rocks his hips, holding Ratio in place with a firm hand in his hair. He removed the laurel hairpin when he first put the blindfold on, so there’s nothing to keep him from weaving his gloved fingers against Ratio’s scalp. The vibrations of a soft moan are pressed into his slick folds by Ratio’s dutiful mouth.

In all honesty, Aventurine doesn’t know what he did to deserve this kind of loyalty; he secretly questions it at every turn, as is his nature. Openly hints at the absurdity of it— when they’re not in such a compromising position, Ratio will usually hum and give a non-answer or simply text back “heh” or something maddeningly vague.

But something compels Ratio to kneel for him, to give over the reins like this, and it makes Aventurine feel more alive than cheating death.

“Give me a lick, puppy,” he says, quiet, just enough to be heard over the rustle of the breeze through the potted palms on the balcony and the faint hum of midnight noise from the city below. “You’ve been good, you can have a little treat now.”

Ratio’s already lapping at his swollen, sensitive cunt with eager strokes, swallowing audibly as he licks up the seemingly never-ending fountain that Aventurine’s body becomes in his presence. And then he’s sucking on Aventurine’s cock and groaning like it’s the best damn thing he’s ever put in his mouth.

Aventurine doesn’t bother to stifle his own moan— blindfolded like this, Ratio will be hungry for any indication that he’s doing well. He kneads his hand in Ratio’s hair, hips twitching up into Ratio’s demanding mouth.

“Someone’s eager,” he teases, shivering at how good it feels to thrust into that wet, sucking warmth. Ratio looks so unfairly gorgeous kneeling for him like this, all his desperation on display as he tries his best to please. “Almost seems like you want me to cum down your throat or something.”

Ratio’s nostrils flare as he breathes out harshly through his nose, a low groan winding its way up from his chest. He sucks extra hard, making Aventurine laugh and gasp at the extra sharp pull of sensation, a warm coil of tension burning low in his gut.

“Or maybe on your pretty face…” Aventurine muses, still breathy, still laughing, thrusting up between Ratio’s plush lips. “I should make you walk around like that. Covered in it, reeking of sex. Would you like that, puppy? Then everyone would know you were my pet.”

Ratio doesn’t groan this time but his breathing grows harsher. Aventurine can’t see his cock, not with the way he’s bent forward, but he can imagine how much it must be straining and dripping all over itself right now. He maneuvers his foot just a little and Ratio suddenly makes a noise like he’s been punched, trembling with what can only be restraint. Aventurine can feel how Ratio’s cock jerks intently against the sole of the sleek, jeweled loafers he wears around the house, begging for more stimulation.

“Oh, you’re so worked up, poor thing,” Aventurine croons, all sympathy. “You keep saying you don’t want me to take you out and show you off, but look how hard you've gotten. I think you secretly love the idea of everyone knowing exactly what you are.”

Ratio’s hips give an aborted twitch, muscles jumping and flexing beneath the skin. He knows he’s not to hump without permission, and it’s a delight to see how seriously he takes his role even when he’s aggravated or trying to act as if all this is beneath him.

“Mm, what do you think…” Aventurine trails off, breezy. “Should I help you out a little?” He nudges Ratio’s cock with his foot again, pressing down until a brief, frustrated whine breaks from Ratio’s throat. It’s followed by a low, rough grunt of indignation, as if that would cover up the first noise. He’s still keeping his mouth ever so obediently occupied, but his poor tormented prick is straining upward against Aventurine’s loafer with such tenacity that Aventurine has the sudden, sadistic urge to step down hard. Tear a real cry from him. Maybe some other time— he shouldn't make Ratio scream on the balcony. Probably.

“Hump it, if you’re so desperate.” Because he hasn’t actually made Ratio do this before, and he’s curious to see what the response will be.

Ratio doesn’t actually move for a long moment, as if wrestling with how much to debase himself. But then Aventurine taps his cock just a little with the sole, and it seems the decision is made for Ratio when his hips jerk forward, and then keep going.

“That’s it,” Aventurine purrs, surprised to discover just how much he enjoys this— Ratio feverishly rutting against his foot, groaning in earnest against his cunt, arms bound and the chain between his nipples swinging. “Enjoy it while you can, because you’re not allowed to cum just yet… as fun as that would be to watch.”

Ratio's forehead tips down against Aventurine’s thigh as he pants. Oh, he’s so damned pretty like this. Aventurine would devour him whole, suck his bones clean and leave no crumbs.

“Ah ah, no slacking.”

Ratio jumps as if he’s been struck, quickly moving his mouth back into place and servicing Aventurine eagerly once more. He probably hadn’t even noticed he’d stopped, which is both a punishable offense and a good sign he’s starting to go under.

“Poor little thing,” Aventurine coos, all false sympathy as he cards his fingers through Ratio’s hair. And then he grips hard and pulls. It's not a real punishment— not for his little masochist of a doctor— but a reminder, certainly. A sudden cry breaks from Ratio’s throat, but he’s a smart boy and keeps his mouth working.

“Next time, don’t stop until you’re given permission, got that?”

Ratio moans in something like agreement, sucking Aventurine’s cock with renewed fervor.

Aventurine decides to make this a little more interesting and grinds his foot down harder onto that beautiful, glorious cock. Ratio makes a pained noise of longing, not shying away in the slightest. On the contrary, he pushes into the touch.

“Oh, you really like that, huh? Guess I shouldn’t be surprised that a little pain slut like you loves having his cock stepped on. Next time, I’ll wear my heeled boots and really give you something to cry about.”

Ratio actually moans at that, mouth hot on Aventurine’s cunt as he licks and sucks with almost pleading intensity. It’s enough to make Aventurine laugh aloud with delight.

“Doctor,” he exclaims, as scandalized as he can make it. “You’re filthy. I bet I could make you cum all over my nice leather boots and make you lick them clean, hm? You really are a sick man.”

He loves riling Ratio up like this, and especially loves how Ratio huffs through his nose and debases himself further by continuing to hump against his shoe.

“Maybe next time,” Aventurine purrs, tucking the idea away for later. “After all, I’m hardly about to let you cum before I do.”

Ratio’s still panting, face buried between Aventurine’s thighs. He laps at Aventurine’s dripping folds, then suckles at his cock once more, those plush lips applying such delicious suction that it really is tempting to fuck his face to completion. It really is a shame no one else is here to see how pretty Veritas Ratio looks at his most debauched and needy— to hear the low noises of enthusiasm that hum through his gorgeous body when his mouth is full.

A wicked idea occurs to Aventurine, then. Just because there’s nobody watching from adjacent balconies doesn’t mean Ratio needs to know that.

“Oh dear,” Aventurine says, laughing suddenly to give the impression of brief surprise before relaxing with a gusty sigh. “Ahhhhh, look alive, handsome. It appears we have company… perhaps your dreams will come true after all.”

Ratio stiffens, but oh, he’s such a darling thing, staying put between Aventurine’s knees like the obedient pet he claims not to be.

“We should go inside,” he says, voice slurred but threaded with a note of tension. The movements of his lips tickle Aventurine’s sensitive folds. “Aventurine—“

“Do you trust me?” It’s a dirty move, but he can’t resist. Not when Ratio lets out a tiny gasp and squirms (oops, he may have stepped down on Ratio’s cock with his shoe again.)

“I— yes.” It sounds like Ratio wants to follow that with a ‘but,’ yet he swallows down whatever he was going to say. “Yes.”

Aventurine’s chest feels like someone’s just taken a torch to his lungs. A rush of euphoria at that simple word cascades over him like a waterfall of sparkling champagne. It’s hard to name something more captivating than Ratio at his most exposed, allowing himself to be a mere pawn in Aventurine’s game.

And he’s certainly going to make sure the doctor sees a return on that investment.

“Good,” he says, willing his voice calm and even, so as not to betray how giddy he is. “Stand up, then.” He even helpfully moves his foot off Ratio’s cock. “Show me that gorgeous body.”

Ratio’s face is deeply flushed by the time he rises to his feet. The color spills down over his chest like wine, and Aventurine wants nothing more than to lick it up. Ratio’s still hard as anything, his gold-adorned nipples taut, his stomach clenching as Aventurine watches. Cuffing his wrists behind his back had been the right move— he can’t curl in on himself like this.

Not that he would. Despite his clear overwhelm, the doctor stands proud before him in all aspects. It would be so satisfying to Break him, yes, but he’s got other things in mind right now.

“Look at you,” Aventurine purrs, gently playing with the leash just so Ratio can feel the connection to him through his balls. “Such a captivating figure. I can hardly keep my eyes off you. No wonder everyone wants to get a glimpse.”

Ratio swallows hard. Oh, the poor dear, he’s shaking a little. “‘Venturine,” he says, rough and dazed. “Are they— still watching.”

“They certainly are,” Aventurine lies, sidling forward on the sofa until he can rise to his feet and pull his garments back up. The feeling of cold, wet underwear is far from appealing, but he can ignore it for the sake of the game. That business attended to, he runs a hand over Ratio’s chest, playing with one of his nipple rings and the chain attached to it until the man gives him what he’s after— a sweet, reluctant little groan, like it truly pains him to utter the noise.

“Come here, now. Step carefully.”

He tugs Ratio by the leash until they’re a few paces away from the sofa and coffee table. Aventurine runs his hand down to play with Ratio’s taut scrotum, fondling the smooth, dark olive skin. Ratio’s always so meticulous about his grooming, it would be a shame not to reward him with some attention here.

Ratio makes another pained noise, his head falling back for a moment as his mouth falls open and he breathes heavily. Aventurine gives his balls another fond squeeze and then strokes up that poor neglected cock, flushed a deep red from all the teasing and the ring keeping it erect.

“Sometimes, I think you get wetter than I do,” Aventurine remarks lightly, playing with the precum that beads like pearls at the slit, slicking that heavy golden ring as well as the velvety cock head. “Turn around now. I want them to see you like this. Unless, of course, you need to fold…”

It's not much of an out, but Ratio will understand. Aventurine won't hold it against him if he can't do this—he's not that much of an asshole. The ball is in the doctor's court now.

Ratio takes a halting breath, but after a moment, he obeys and turns around to face the open air. He’s clearly trying to school his breathing and doing an admirable job, but he jumps when Aventurine sidles up beside him, tilting his head against Ratio’s straining upper arm.

“Let them see how eager you are for me,” he cajoles, slicking his whole fist over Ratio’s cock without warning. Ratio’s knees nearly buckle before he catches himself. Aventurine just hums, wrapped around him from the side, keeping him pointed out towards their imaginary audience across the space between buildings. Even if he’s exposed to nothing more than the late night breeze, Aventurine gets a downright gambler’s high off this. Ratio’s really letting himself be stroked off for all and sundry to watch.

“What’s your color, puppy?” He murmurs it loud enough to be heard over the breeze shifting through the potted palms. “You still with me?”

“Green,” Ratio says a moment later, licking his lips and going right back to panting with his mouth agape. He sounds so nervous, but oh, his determination is delicious.

“Good,” Aventurine praises, and it’s entirely genuine. “Such a brave boy for me, letting me show you off like this. Do you even know how pretty you look, all dolled up and bound? They’re staring because they wish they could do the things to you that I’m doing right now.”

Using the hand that’s holding the leash, he trails his fingers down over Ratio’s ass to dip into the cleft, teasing his entrance ever so minutely. Ratio shifts his weight and drops his head, panting. He keeps making the most delicious little noises— hard to say if he’s even aware of it.

“You want to show them how good you look when I fuck you?” Aventurine lets go of his cock and trails his hand back up to grope those ample tits. He’s still standing off to the side, as if to offer their audience an unobstructed view, and Ratio’s knees do a funny, brief wobble again.

“Oh? You do like that idea, don’t you? You say you’re not an exhibitionist, but your body sure seems to think you are.”

Ratio licks his lips, mouth immediately parting again. Even without being able to see those pretty eyes of his, it’s obvious to Aventurine he’s gone.

“Not such a little brat now,” he coos, working his gloved finger more insistently against Ratio’s hole. “Does my puppy want to get mounted out on the balcony? You want to show everyone what a good, submissive boy you are?”

Ratio sways again, ever so slightly, then nods. It seems words have abandoned him for the moment, but Aventurine wants to be sure.

“Gotta ask for it, sweetheart. Tell me you want me to fuck you on the balcony.”

His precious Veritas seems to struggle to form the words, but Aventurine can be patient— despite how horribly his cunt is clenching at the thought of reducing his beautiful doctor to a whimpering mess out in the balmy evening air.

“Green,” Ratio finally says, repeating himself as if on autopilot. And then, with great struggle, “Please. F-fuck me.”

Words can be especially hard for him when he’s gotten deep enough into subspace, so that alone is impressive. Aventurine sighs in approval and fawns over him, trailing kisses up his chest and neck with a pleased hum.

“Such a good boy, giving me his color.” Another kiss to his collarbone, this time sucking lightly. It’s enough to make Ratio sway. He’s so perfectly sensitive like this. Aventurine just wants to dote on him forever. Wants to be the only one who gets to see Ratio like this. Well… him and whatever audience he chooses for them.

“I’m gonna have you stand right here while I get what I need to fuck you, okay?” He can’t help the softness that bleeds into his tone. “Can you be brave for me and stay put? Let them look at you while I get ready?”

Ratio shivers, almost violently so, but he nods quickly enough that Aventurine isn’t worried. “Yes,” he manages, poor cock bobbing in a futile attempt to get more attention. “H-hurry.”

Aventurine gathers and dons what he needs as swiftly as he can. Clothes off. Harness, cock, lube— check. He downs the last few sips of his cocktail as he saunters back outside through the sliding door wearing just his strap and his bejeweled house-shoes to give him a little height. Ratio’s still standing precisely where Aventurine left him, the handle of his leash pinned to the ground where Aventurine had attached it to an Imaginary weight. Couldn’t have his precious doctor wandering off and getting hurt, now.

“There we are,” he says, soothing and teasing all at once as he takes possession of the leash once more, tugging Ratio to attention. Not that he needs the help. “Oh my, it seems you’ve kept the neighbors’ interest, puppy. Think they know what’s coming?”

In all truth, Ratio has very likely figured out by now that nobody is outside watching them. Even deep in subspace, he’s still sharp as anything. But it’s the urge of uncertainty that Aventurine loves to push him towards. He loves to reward the doctor’s willingness to play along. To discover the truth in the fiction he weaves for them.

Aventurine lets his eyes linger on his prize, wandering down Ratio’s beautiful body— each sinew and bone shaped with such care, as if some generous deity had personally hand-crafted him. The yearning to say to hell with the teasing and the games and just hold Veritas becomes almost unbearable if Aventurine lets himself dwell for too long, so he focuses instead on the next stage of the plan.

The chaise lounge framed by more potted palms will do nicely— he can lay Ratio back against it and spread those sculpted thighs.

Ratio sits at the edge of the cushion when Aventurine leads him to it, silent and waiting for command. It’s only when Aventurine pushes him down by the center of the chest and murmurs, “lay back and spread your legs for me,” that he makes a quiet noise of longing. Or is it anguish?

“That’s it. Show me everything,” Aventurine purrs, greedy for every last inch. Ratio’s cock is an impressively deep red, leaking down over his equally flushed, taut balls and the ring that binds them. His hole clenches down on nothing, so soft and tantalizing. The deep blue leather leash really does look devastatingly erotic laid against his skin.

Aventurine has been holding onto the glass bottle of lubricant, and now he anoints his cock with it, knowing Ratio will recognize the sound of the cap and the slick noises that follow. The doctor’s lovely, thick thighs tremble, his foot bracing a little firmer against the cushion of the chaise as he tries to keep his knees wide open.

“What do you think,” Aventurine murmurs, anointing Ratio’s hole with the excess oil and loving the way he jumps, then sinks into the touch. “Fingers first, or do you want to try and take me without any warm-up? How much of a glutton for punishment is my little pet, tonight?”

They’ve done it without prep before, and he thinks with enough lube, Ratio could be in the right headspace for it now. But he’s a gentleman, or at least a mimicry of one, so he’ll ask.

Ratio’s throat bobs as he swallows.

“Fingers. Please.”

With his arms bound behind his back and his body splayed out, he looks like a painting of an ancient figure from his homeworld’s folklore he’d once showed Aventurine. Chained atop a mountain and left for the vultures to devour, all for the mere crime of bringing the fire of the gods to the humans. Or had it been divine knowledge that the man had stolen?

Aventurine can’t recall the name of the tale right now— his memory is sharp as the rest of him, but he’s a little distracted by the way Veritas looks fit for a sacrifice, blindfolded and vulnerable and yet still with that innately regal bearing of his.

“Fingers, huh?” He allows himself a tiny laugh, more of a sigh than anything. Acting surprised by the answer. “So you do wanna drag this out. Well, I suppose, if you insist…”

He’s not truly disappointed, not by any means; it's an excuse to dote and pamper. Ratio’s body sucks him in eagerly, and the faint noise that escapes his mouth is an entire symphony to Aventurine’s ears. He’s always so damned hot inside, so slick and smooth, fluttering around Aventurine’s finger, and then the second.

“That’s it, loud enough so they can hear you across the way,” Aventurine goads, and Ratio visibly bites his plump, bottom lip as he shudders. Whether it’s from the command or the fact that he just brushed over the soft mound of Ratio’s prostate is anyone’s guess.

He opens his lovely, submissive doctor with easy strokes. Almost too easy. Ratio is always as meticulous with his prep as with everything else, but this feeling of him already so soft and yielding inside is new… Had he penetrated himself with something sizable before coming here? In anticipation of this, perhaps?

“I think someone was absolutely dying to get fucked today,” he observes. Ratio scoffs, ever so slightly— the pedantic part of him not entirely smothered by subspace no doubt finding Aventurine’s commentary redundant.

Aventurine fucks him harder with his fingers, pushing one of Ratio’s thighs up toward his chest. The doctor is surprisingly flexible for a man of his build; it would be a downright shame not to put it to use.

And it works like a charm— Ratio quickly succumbs, mouth falling ajar and rewarding Aventurine with such a lovely series of whines.

“You can’t very well deny it when you spread this easily for me,” he murmurs. Aeons, he’s getting even wetter at the mere sight of Ratio practically begging him for more. “I wonder if our friends across the way can see how easily your sloppy hole is taking my fingers.” He pushes another in, just to prove the point. Ratio shivers like he’s had a bucket of ice water poured over him, almost violently.

“Well, I’m sure they saw that,” Aventurine remarks, turning over his shoulder as if to check. The balconies across the gap between buildings are unlit, but he wonders if anyone truly is watching from their darkened bedroom, perhaps peeking through the window slats. He hopes someone out there is bearing witness to the utter feast that is Veritas Ratio spread out before him. Even if it’s only a lonely Aeon, realizing what THEY missed out on when they passed Ratio over.

All for the best, in the end. Aventurine is a greedy man whose thirst is never slaked and whose hunger never abates. The less he has to share Ratio with some unfeeling cosmic entity, the better.

Ratio’s mouth is slack as he rocks into Aventurine’s touch, seeking out more, trying to coax him deeper. His chest heaves, the chain between his nipples shimmering where the shadows of the palms fail to block the balcony lights. Ratio’s blindfolded face remains in shadow, but the flush spread beneath his leather collar and down over his ample tits makes it clear that he’s still pink-cheeked and getting pinker.

Aventurine thinks of all the blood beneath the surface of his skin. Every little iron molecule, every little atom making up his beautiful doctor. His surly, brooding genius turned docile, whimpering pet. What a cosmic marvel it is, that such a man should exist; that his luck would extend so far as to have Ratio squirming on his fingers tonight. How far can he push his Goddess-given blessing before it finally singes and snaps?

“Please,” Ratio croaks, as if in answer to his question. He gets nervous when he cannot see and Aventurine goes silent for too long. “Master.”

That word shouldn’t get him as hard and throbbing as it does. But coming from Ratio’s mouth, in that arousal-thick voice, there’s very little that wouldn’t do it for him. Aventurine stifles his groan, dragging his fingers against Ratio’s prostate and watching him writhe.

“Alright, handsome. You’ve been so patient. You need Master’s cock deep in that sweet little cunt of yours, don’t you.”

Ratio sucks a breath in through his gritted teeth as Aventurine’s hand withdraws, leaving him with the cutest little gape. When he’s this far gone, Aventurine can start getting properly filthy with his dirty talk, and it really is such a pretty pussy…

Aventurine runs a hand over his strap again, making sure the lubricant is still slick, then activates the neural link at the base with a lingering press of his thumbprint. Immediately, a warm, stiff pleasure floods into his system— now he can actually feel his cock. Now he can fuck Ratio to their hearts’ content.

Aventurine strokes himself once more for the hell of it, acclimating to the feeling, then leans in and drags the head of his cock over Ratio’s hole. Everything’s always extra sensitive when he initially engages the link; while he thankfully doesn’t have to worry that he won’t be able to satisfy Ratio if he cums too soon, he does still want to keep a clear head until after Ratio is spent.

His needy pet is already shaking with the effort of not pushing back against his cock. Ratio knows he isn’t allowed, and right now he’s being so very obedient. Perhaps because he thinks they might have an audience?

“Such a good boy, waiting for permission,” Aventurine praises, stroking along the outside of Ratio’s thigh and taking some of its weight. “Your needy little pussy needs to be filled so badly, doesn’t it? Does it hurt, princess? Is that why you’re shaking?”

Ratio’s still breathing between clenched teeth, clearly trying not to cry out as his chest heaves and his stomach clenched and trembles, his cock jolting and dripping onto his stomach. But he stays largely silent.

Ah, that’s no fun.

“Answer the question,” Aventurine insists, pushing the head of his cock forward just enough that he can feel the intense heat of Ratio’s slick, soft hole threatening to envelop the tip, then draws back. “You gonna be a good girl for me and beg to get fucked?”

Nevermind that Ratio’s already begged him earlier— he wants it to continue. And there are few things that short-circuit Ratio’s already-addled mind quicker than feminine endearments.

It works. Ratio’s breath hitches, and then he practically sobs for Aventurine to continue, to please fuck him. He needs relief, even if he can only ask for it in stuttering, halting phrases.

“Master… I— I beg—“

“Keep begging,” Aventurine says, sharp, then pushes into him all in one steady go; not so fast to be horribly cruel, but not giving him the barest chance to adjust until he’s fully buried in that hot, slick hole.

Ratio keens, a lovely high-pitched sound that makes Aventurine want to go absolutely feral. It’s so unlike the Ratio that Veritas presents to his adoring public; so raw and unguarded it makes Aventurine’s heart clench even as his nerves are singing with so much pleasure it’s nearly unbearable.

“More,” Ratio demands, rough and low, sounding more like himself for a moment, then his voice breaks on another cry. A breathy “please” follows, and of course Aventurine is going to give him exactly what he needs, setting a quick pace and using one hand to tug the chain between his nipples and make him cry out in pained ecstasy.

“Pretty little slut, love having your tits played with, huh?” He’s panting now, having to work to keep his voice steady as he thrusts. “Your pussy gets so tight every time.”

Ratio’s moans are like ambrosia, he’ll be high on this all week. The man just feels too damned good inside. Aventurine could fuck him forever, wants to do this every single day; morning, noon, and night. Wants Ratio to be his, wants to see the look in his eyes when Aventurine pushes inside him, wants to know if he craves the same things Aventurine does, if he truly needs this as badly, if—

Fuck. Stop it, greedy Kakavasha. Just focus on the here and now. We’re a gambler, not a fortune teller. (Although, are they really all that different, in our case?)

“That’s it… heavens, you feel too damned good.” Aventurine forces himself back into the present; once he does, he finds the sensation triply overpowering. Can’t help a long, low groan as Ratio clenches down on him, strong hips undulating to meet his. And then he’s gripping Ratio by the thigh and the waist, and he’s fucking him hard and deep enough to rattle the entire chaise lounge, because Aventurine needs this, he needs it far more than he wants to admit.

“Master! H-hhah! Please…”

Ratio takes it as beautifully as he always does— he’s so sturdy that Aventurine really can fuck him as hard as he’s physically able and Ratio never complains, seems to love every moment. His dark head lolls back with a deep groan, a countermelody to his soft sighs and pitched cries from earlier, and he picks his hips up to meet Aventurine’s thrusts as often as he can manage. He looks so damned beautiful, Aventurine suddenly has a wild urge to rip off his blindfold.

It’s there to protect them both. To maintain the beautifully fragile illusion. He shouldn’t. (His fingers itch where they dig into Ratio’s flesh. Focus, focus.)

“That’s my girl,” Aventurine coos, getting his head back into the game. Always a professional. “Love feeling this cunt clench down on me. You really can’t get enough of this cock, can you?” He smacks Ratio’s inner thigh, a fleshy and satisfying sound, and his beautiful Veritas moans so sweetly for him. “Such a little slut for pain. You were made for this. That pretty body of yours was—hah— just meant to be filled by anyone who would bend you over.”

Ratio shakes his head against the cushion of the chaise lounge. His shoulder twitches forward, as if he’s forgotten for a moment that his arms are bound behind him. As if he meant to reach out. “Not— not anyone.” His voice is throaty and thick, but he gets the words out with valiant effort.

“Oh? Are you a selective slut?” Aventurine can’t deny he’s pleased by this. “Who does this cunt belong to?”

“You,” Ratio gasps without hesitation. “Yours. Master.”

He’s never been so insistent on that title before. Aventurine has certainly never asked him to use it. Must really be getting him off this time, and who is his obliging dom to question it?

“Smart and pretty,” he praises as he angles his hips to better drive against Ratio’s prostate— to hell with it, he can give Veritas a compliment for more than just his body at this point. He’s earned it. “Such a devoted little cock sleeve to your master.”

Ratio whines, his cock jerking miserably against his taut stomach. Aventurine has been purposefully avoiding it; he loves seeing how slick and desperate Ratio gets. The cock ring is doing its job beautifully, keeping him stiff and his balls full and taut. Aventurine rubs a finger along the seam of his sac; the reaction is an immediate series of desperate, panting whines. Fuck, he wants to record that— wants to replay it behind his eyes anytime he needs a quick fix. How can he already be so turned on, and yet Ratio can just give him an injection of pure arousal that spikes him even higher, just like that?

“My little toy is so cute, all tied up and needy. Look how damned wet you are.” He punctuates his next thrust with a little laugh, teasing the very tip of Veritas’ twitching cock. Playing with the heavy piercing nestled into the slit, smearing the pre cum that gathers there. He laughs even brighter when Ratio moans shamelessly and tries to chase the touch, his chest heaving and his slick stomach tightening. He looks unfairly good covered in a soft sheen of sweat, decorated in all that golden jewelry like a fairytale prince of the most sordid kind. Aventurine wants to devour him until there’s nothing left, not a single crumb.

“Please,” Ratio begs freely, probably because he knows Aventurine will continue to deny him. He loves the tease, loves having his torment dragged out.

“Mm. It’s impressive you can still form words, maybe that means I’m not fucking you hard enough.”

Aventurine gets serious, now. He reaches for the lube to splash a little at the base of his cock, shoulders one of Ratio’s legs, then grips his hip and the top of Ratio’s thigh and does his level best to rail the larger man right through the damned furniture.

Ratio instantly tightens around his shaft, his back arching as Aventurine drags over his prostate with each thrust. He makes a choked noise— that’s better, make it impossible for him to speak coherently.

“So fucking— squeeze me so good,” Aventurine pants, having his own difficulties with words. He’s tempted to deactivate the neural link to his cock just so he can focus on his job, but he’s so greedy for this, loves feeling every little clench and ripple of Ratio’s inner muscles, loves the smooth wet heat of him.

Ratio makes a ragged, needy noise, his lovely dark head rolling from side to side as Aventurine bends him deeper, not letting up his assault.

“Like that? Couldn’t keep me out— even if you wanted— hah— not with this pretty little cunt.” Shit, now he’s rambling stupidly, but it’s making Veritas clench his teeth and whine so prettily that Aventurine finds he doesn’t care. “C’mon. That’s it— hhh, be a good girl for me— let ‘em watch you take it all.”

He’d nearly forgotten his little exhibitionist game, and the reminder has Ratio shaking beneath him. Oh, he’s too easy, he’s too perfect, he feels too fucking good. Tears spring inexplicably to the corner of Aventurine’s eyes and he needs his hands, he can’t stop to wipe them away. Praise the Amber Lord for blindfolds. Ratio doesn’t need to know. Doesn’t need to see how he’s the one doing the Breaking. That he’s the one who has Aventurine thoroughly, willingly Imprisoned.

“‘Venturine,” Ratio moans, a quiet and needy thing. “Please.”

There’s something about hearing Ratio use his name like this; so intimate it shatters a little more of his delicate insides. How can he refuse? How can he possibly deny this man anything?

“Okay, okay,” he acquiesces, slowing his hips to the pace Veritas likes best, the one that could make him spill untouched if Aventurine wanted. “You’ve earned it, beautiful. Go ahead. Show me how pretty you cum for me.”

Ratio makes an almost grateful noise, a relieved sob as Aventurine slicks his hand over that straining, aching cock and drags his own dick over Ratio’s poor, swollen prostate. He’s rewarded with a sweet sob only moments later as Ratio’s release spills warm over his fingers, spurting with enough force to reach his own neck, his cheek and jaw. Aventurine milks it from him inside and out, watching Ratio’s face twist in ecstasy.

Fuck it. Before Aventurine can think twice, he reaches out with his cum-covered hand to whip the blindfold up and off. Ratio jerks his head back in startlement, blinking blearily. His eyes are wet as well— only to be expected— and his dark lashes stutter quickly before he’s aiming those hazy, jewel-toned eyes up toward Aventurine, his face wracked with pleasure and confusion as he rides out the last of his orgasm.

Aventurine doesn’t provide an explanation, just returns his soiled hand to Ratio’s cock and strokes him through it, watching greedily as Ratio’s eyes flutter and roll back. Yes, this is what he needed; to see every little detail, every piece of evidence of how he’s affecting Ratio. To drink up every last trace of his pleasure.

Greedy, Kakavasha…

Ratio meets his gaze again, lids heavy and lips parted and his own cum clinging to his cheek, so flushed and debauched and trusting that Aventurine can’t hold off any longer. His own orgasm hits him like a death sentence, unstoppable and non-negotiable. He didn’t mean for Ratio to see him in return, wanted to preserve the illusion for his sake (maybe both of their sakes) but when he crumples forward, driving his cock in deep as his cunt pulses with electric aftershocks, he can’t really regret it. Not when Ratio nudges their faces together and they fall into a hungry, uncoordinated kiss.

Fuck, it’s messy and absurd and he loves every moment of it; their tongues clumsy from need, the stupid noises they’re both making. He wants to live in this moment where he’s buried deep inside Veritas forever. The synthetic cum released from the reservoir inside his strap is only making the glide easier, only making it harder to pull away.

Ratio doesn’t seem inclined to stop kissing, and he only makes a needy, pained noise between their mouths when Aventurine adjusts his stance and rocks into him again. Great thing about having a strap; he can just keep on going.

“Take it for me,” he whispers against Veritas’ swollen lips. “Give me one more. Can you do that for me?”

Ratio groans as if in despair, but he nods. He’s really not adept with words after he cums like this, so utterly submerged in his submission, but that’s plenty for Aventurine. He drags his cock slow and filthy over Ratio’s prostate, wanting to see him absolutely fall apart. And his sweet doctor obliges, squeezing his eyes shut tight at the stimulation that must be verging on painful. It makes him throb to think of Ratio taking it for him anyway.

The slower pace allows him to knead Ratio’s pecs in his palm, smearing more of their mess into his skin. He thumbs over those pretty, heavy golden rings in Ratio’s nipples, savors the ruined noises that erupt from Ratio's mouth when he tugs at the pierced buds. Aventurine loves knowing what lurks under Ratio’s clothing. After all, he was the one who convinced Ratio to get his nipples done back when this first started, not long after he’d discovered the doctor’s unexpectedly naughty cock piercing. Waiting for his nipples to heal was worth it in the end, because now Aventurine can torment those sensitive tits to both their hearts’ content.

“Got another one in you, princess?”

Ratio’s cheeks are shining with tear tracks that run down towards his ears, no longer being absorbed by the blindfold. He nods again, trying in futility to struggle away from the teasing touches. Aventurine supports his weight with one hand splayed across Ratio’s chest while the other continues to grope him shamelessly. He keeps his hips to a slow, tormenting pace, just shallow little thrusts right where Ratio will feel it most. His own nerves are singing thanks to the neural network, his dual cocks throbbing in time. Like this, it all feels so real…

Everything feels a little too real with Veritas. It’s getting harder to remind himself what this is. Especially when Ratio turns those lust-drunk eyes on his— hazy and unfocused in a way Aventurine has come to crave. Putty in his hands, too trusting, far too trusting.

He kisses Ratio again to avoid having to look too directly into those velvety, soft eyes. There’s always a hint of that sharp mind lurking just beneath the dazed cumdrunk aura— he knows a man like Ratio can never fully turn his brain off, only hand the reins over and back off as best he can. And he doesn’t need Ratio later mulling over the reasons for his equally wet lashes, his equally needy gaze.

Ratio’s tongue is hot and fervent against his— lax though his body may be, he’s still coherent enough to seek greater depth to their kiss. However curt and dismissive he may be outside the bedroom, he doesn’t tend to deny himself pleasure once he’s sunk this deep, and Aventurine has already denied him enough for one night.

The slow pace and the kissing is making this feel a little too soft, too sentimental, so he tugs on the chain again to remind them both. Veritas grunts, chest heaving, but doesn’t back down, entangling his tongue with Aventurine’s as he rides out the sensation. He’s getting close again, his previously-spent cock doing its best to rally as it bobs weakly between their stomachs. Aventurine wants to break him into more pieces than his Cornerstone. It’s unfair that Ratio can shatter him like this without even trying, even while bound and submitted.

“Come on,” he murmurs against Ratio’s mouth, feeling like he needs to wrap this up before he does anything horribly risky. “Show it to me. You’re gonna cum untouched for me this time, aren’t you?”

Ratio breathes heavily against him, a near silent hiss as he grinds his hips up against Aventurine’s. His pulse is visible at his neck, below the leather band of the collar, his dark violet curls clinging to his face all wild and unruly from when Aventurine whipped the blindfold free. He’s too beautiful like this but Aventurine can’t stop looking.

“Still… watching…?”

It takes him a moment to realize what Ratio’s asking, halting and slurred as it is, and he considers extending the lie, but maybe he’s getting sentimental because he shakes his head.

“Nobody,” he soothes. “Just us, now.”

Ratio’s eyes flutter closed, and he nods, a beautiful grimace pinching his brow as he takes a deep, shuddering breath. Aventurine doesn’t let up, rocking into him steadily, trying to ignore his own squirming need to cum again. That can wait, he wants to see this; just for his eyes, just for him.

“Ka—kava—“ Ratio can barely get the syllables out, but Aventurine’s pulse spikes immediately. “Please.”

Well, fuck. Ratio’s never once called him that, directly. Not in bed or out of it. It sends a massive shockwave through him, and before Aventurine can think twice, he’s clutching Ratio close and kissing him hard, fucking into him with abandon.

The next moments are a blur, but he feels Ratio clench down and shout against his mouth, weak but with feeling, and warm wetness seeps between their bodies. Aventurine doesn’t stop kissing him, can’t stop fucking him, he needs to find a way to crawl inside Ratio and stay there. Leaving his fake seed inside him isn’t enough, but— fuck he might just need to do that again anyway, oh shit, he’s—

Aventurine clenches down on nothing as he cums again, unexpected and unnecessary but happening all the same. He forces himself to stop, trying with all his dazed might not to actually hurt Ratio, but the leg not slung over his shoulder is suddenly wrapping around his hip, squeezing him tight in an attempt to keep him from retreating.

He collapses half onto Ratio, knee still budged against the chaise lounge, head spinning too hard to stay upright. They lay like that for some time, Ratio’s other leg slipping off him to rest at his side, both of them trying to regain their breath. Aventurine doesn’t know why that hit him so strongly; he can’t imagine why Ratio would have called him that, except out of pure delirium. Fuck, he just wants to enjoy the afterglow and not think…

Ratio finally rumbles beneath him and Aventurine realizes he should probably unbind his wrists. The poor man’s shoulders have to be killing him by now. He carefully reaches underneath Ratio from the side, dissipating the Imaginary key in the lock on the cuffs. He prefers doing it that way over a real key— specifically for moments like this.

Ratio groans with that particular pained pleasure that comes from finally being released from one’s restraints— Aventurine knows it well, for better or worse. The doctor rolls his shoulders and lets his thick arms fall limp at his sides, surely having lost circulation at some point while Aventurine was atop him. He shouldn’t have gotten so wrapped up in fucking that he forgot to check in, but something tells him Ratio wouldn’t have said anything but green green green regardless.

“There you go,” Aventurine says, struggling to pull out and get off him, but Ratio just grunts and flops a heavy arm over him, pinning Aventurine to his sweaty chest.

“Mmnnn.” His eyes are closed when Aventurine looks up. “Hhh… hush.”

And so Aventurine gives in, still half inside Ratio’s sex-softened body, and lets himself melt against that broad torso, cheek smushed into warm salty skin. Ratio always smells so good, even after exertion, and he can’t really complain about getting to touch him for a little longer before they button up and go their separate ways.

A little longer becomes a lot longer when Aventurine blinks back into himself and realizes he’s either been sleeping or simply adrift for quite some time. It’s difficult to say how long, as it’s still the middle of the night, but the cum between their stomachs has long cooled and dried around the edges, and his back is sore from both the exertion and Ratio’s heavy arm laying across it at such an odd angle.

He finally extricates himself and manages to stagger upright, deactivating the neural link so he doesn’t have to feel the chill of the breeze on his artificial cock. It was still inside Ratio until just a moment ago, and the feeling of losing a sensitive appendage so suddenly leaves his system feeling a bit confused and unmoored, as it always does.

Ratio seems to come back to himself now that Aventurine’s weight is no longer covering him. He squints up at the palms shading the chaise lounge, wrinkles his nose at the mess he no doubt feels on his skin, then casts about until he sees Aventurine. A soft, wry smile comes to his face and chases away the look of annoyance, far too warm for comfort.

“Did we…?”

“Fall asleep? Yeah, think so. Just for a bit, I’m pretty sure.” Aventurine stretches, uncaring of who may or may not be watching. He feels satisfied and numb all at once. “Want me to run you a bath?”

“Mm.” Ratio closes his eyes again for a moment, nodding. “If you would.” He pauses for another moment, then seems to gather his strength to sit up. He’s an absolute mess of dark curls, sticky jewelry, reddened skin and cum and sweat and Aventurine thinks he might be falling a little bit in love. (This is far from the first time he’s had this thought.)

He extends a hand and Ratio looks at it for an extra blink before taking it, letting Aventurine help him up. The way he stands gingerly with his thighs spread a little further than normal doesn’t escape notice. He’s still got the cock ring on, and the midnight blue leather leash is still clipped to it.

“C’mon, big guy,” Aventurine teases, taking the lead and giving it a playful tug. “Let’s get you cleaned up.”

To Aventurine’s surprise, Ratio insists they take a bath together.

First, a shower to cleanse them of the worst of the remnants of their play. They’ve showered off together plenty of times, since Ratio is often still too loopy after their play dates to do it himself. As per usual, Aventurine has Ratio stay seated on the built-in bench so he can carefully scrub the sweat from his hair, shampooing him with the bottle Ratio left in his shower last time. Or was it the time before that?

Hm. Is that odd? That Ratio’s begun to leave his toiletries here? Or just the doctor’s usual pragmatism? It’s probably best not to ask.

But he’s not used to joining Ratio in the bathtub. He usually just stays nearby to make sure the doctor doesn’t drown himself in his post-sex delirium. Brings him water and juice for his blood sugar, idly checks his emails while Ratio slowly comes back to life.

It’s odd to be with him in the tub, especially since Ratio wanted them to sit together at the larger end. It’s shaped with a curve, so they each could easily sit at opposite ends and have room to stretch their legs, but Ratio seems oddly needy when it comes to aftercare tonight. He’s loathe to let Aventurine step away for too long, as if skin contact is all that’s keeping him together. Maybe he pushed him too far? Aventurine worries his bottom lip as he holds Ratio to his chest, the taller man having slid down into the water enough for his head to rest against Aventurine’s shoulder.

Well… nothing to be done right now, if so. He’d have to ask once Ratio was more coherent. But the doctor surprises him again by asking, in still slightly slurred tones, “Kakavasha…?”

His heart spikes again. Can Ratio feel it?

“Mm. What’s with you calling me that, all of a sudden?”

“It’s your name, is it not?” Ratio still sounds dreamy, speaking slower than usual, but he’s clearly coming back online, bit by bit. He touches Aventurine’s leg under the water. “You don’t like it?”

Aventurine takes a breath to think. “I didn’t say that. Just curious. Nobody calls me that.”

“Mm.” Ratio’s eyes seem closed when Aventurine looks down, though it’s hard to tell from this angle. “Forgive me. I thought, perhaps… we could address each other… less formally…”

A funny little feeling drifts through Aventurine’s chest. He feels warmer than even the steamy water can account for. “Oh? You mean, call you Veritas?”

“Mm.” Ratio nods ever so minutely. “You may give it some thought. I do not wish… to presume.”

Aventurine finds himself laughing under his breath. “You mean, all my other nicknames for you aren’t enough?”

Ratio huffs, sinking lower in the water. His knees poke out like two tall, pale islands between Aventurine’s. Is he sulking, or embarrassed? Adorable.

“Those are different.”

“Mm. My little princess,” Aventurine teases. “I don’t mind if you call me that, I guess. I don’t really think of myself as that person anymore, but if you like it… Why do you ask, anyway?”

Ratio doesn’t answer for a long moment. Aventurine is starting to wonder if he’s started to nod off again when he finally stirs and says, very quietly, “I believe exchanging given names is considered an indicator of intimacy, is it not?”

Aventurine swallows around the sudden lump in his throat. “I mean, so is bending you over and shoving a cock in your ass.”

Predictably, Ratio doesn’t rise to his provocation, no doubt seeing it for what it is. Instead, he seeks out Aventurine’s hand under the water and seems to questioningly trace his fingertips over it. Aventurine’s heart is thudding so loud he’s amazed it’s not rattling the bathroom mirrors. When he doesn’t pull away, Ratio seems to take that as permission to thread their fingers together, holding his hand at the bottom of the tub.

“Partnerships require mutual trust,” Ratio goes on, sounding sleepy. Will he even remember this tomorrow? “And against my better inclinations, at times… I have never regretted trusting in you.”

Aventurine has no idea why he’s saying this now— is it because of what they just did? Or for some other reason? Regardless, it has him feeling all kinds of fragile as he squeezes Veritas’ hand and brings their intertwined fingers up to rest against Veritas’ stomach.

“I’ll try to keep it that way,” he says lightly, the most he can bring himself to say when his throat feels so choked, but Veritas just gives a soft hum and relaxes against him. His damp hair smells clean and sweet, and Aventurine suddenly imagines them doing this more often. Wonders if things have changed between them without him noticing; if Veritas has already decided that this is something more than what it was when they started. He wouldn’t put it past Veritas to just make decisions without bothering to consult anyone else on the matter.

“If…” Aventurine starts, and then stops, frustrated and flustered. It isn’t like him to be so tongue-tied. “If there’s anything else you want to try, you can just ask. You know me, I’m a pretty open-minded guy.” It's not the best response, but he hopes Veritas understands what he's getting at.

Veritas just makes another amused little sound, squeezing Aventurine’s hand and turning onto his hip so he’s resting sideways along Aventurine’s chest, the water keeping him buoyant enough that he barely seems to weigh much of anything despite his bulk. Now there’s no way he can’t feel how madly Aventurine's pulse is racing, not with how his heart is banging against his ribs right behind the man's ear.

“There is nothing to be afraid of, Kakavasha,” Veritas murmurs against Aventurine’s wet skin, warm breath mixing with the fragrant steam of the bath. “Such intimacies are merely an offer, never a demand. Things can always stay as they are; we can simply remain Ratio and Aventurine. I can bathe alone. My interest in continuing our current arrangement is not predicated on your willingness to explore new territory.”

Aventurine stays quiet, not sure how to respond. He knows what he wants, sure… he just doesn’t have much confidence that things won’t go horribly awry if he takes Veritas up on that offer. Whatever intimacy means to him, Aventurine’s pretty good at fucking that kind of thing right up.

“I’m not afraid,” he finally says. Which is a lie, but one he still very much needs to cling to. “But maybe you’re giving me a little too much credit, doc. You might be seeing things in Kakavasha that aren’t really there.”

Veritas scoffs, a huff of air against his skin. “Let me be the judge of that.” He squeezes their hands, because for all his hesitance, Aventurine still hasn’t let go. “You are a terrible judge of your own character and worth.”

“Gee, thanks.” Aventurine sighs, tipping his head back and closing his eyes. “Y'know, I think that scene mighta gone to your head. Keep calling me such grandiose titles and you’re bound to start believing the hype.”

Veritas just holds their hands closer to his chest, letting out a quiet, exhausted sound. It’s probably time to get him out of the bath and into bed. Aventurine always makes up the guest bedroom for him since he tends to rise early and head home before dawn to attend to his morning workout routine.

“C’mon, handsome. You can lecture me later, you’re gonna fall asleep and cook in here.”

Veritas lets himself be helped upright, though he gives Aventurine a soft look as Aventurine wraps him in a towel.

“It’s just aftercare,” Aventurine grumbles, unable to meet his eyes. He’s not blushing, it’s downright sweltering in here.

“If you insist,” says Veritas, diplomatically. “Have you predicted my next request?”

Aventurine sighs, beleaguered and heartsick. “You wanna stay in my bed?”

Aventurine falls asleep with his back to a warm body for the first time in longer than he can remember. A solid arm wrapped around his waist. A soft kiss pressed to the back of his neck. A dozy “sleep well, Kakavasha,” murmured into his hair. A clenching ache in his chest that spreads tingling warmth all the way down to his feet where they tangle with Veritas’ slender ankles.

Maybe this leash goes both ways.

Maybe he’s alright with that.

xx