Disclaimer: This is a non-profit work of fiction. All characters and places belong to those who created, and produced Swamp Thing.

Notes:This is one of the last stories Jacqui and I were working on. In honour of what a wonderful friend she was I dedicate this work to her. We didn't have time to really plan the end, but I hope Jacqui you approve ... I tried to stay true to our ideas. This was out favourite story, feedback would be greatly appreciated, who knows, perhaps all the incentive I need to finish it is knowing at least one person wants to find out what happens. :) Send comments here [email protected].

The next morning dawned bright and clear and much too early as Hugo walked into the room without knocking. It took Arcane a few moments to wake up enough to be aware of who was standing over him.

"Bloody hell man!" Arcane jumped up, stumbling and almost falling in his haste not to be caught in such a vulnerable position. "Don't you know how to knock."

"Forgive me Doctor," Hugo didn't look the least sorry, an almost invisible smirk gracing his dour features. "You're expected in the lab in half an hour. Sir Richards expects results and he expects them soon."

"Half an hour!" Outraged Arcane looked at the bedside clock, "It's only 5:30 in the morning. This is bloody indecent."

"Nevertheless Doctor, you will be in the lab in half an hour." The or else was left unsaid but hung quite clearly in the air. Sketching a short bow Hugo left the room without further ado.

Growling Arcane threw a pillow at his assistant, who had somehow managed to remain asleep through out the whole exchange. "Wake up and get ready you fool," he snarled, glaring as Graham's sleepy confused eyes met his. "You have half an hour." Grabbing the first set of clothing that hung in the closet Arcane stormed into the bathroom, all but slamming the door.

A few minutes later Graham heard the shower turn on. Stumbling out of bed he stood blinking for a few moments, the events of last night flashing in his head like a bad nightmare. Sighing faintly he picked out gray pants and a black shirt from the selection of clothing Sir James had provided, knowing that by the time Arcane finished with the shower there wouldn't be enough time left for him to have one.

Relaxing under the soothing warm spray Arcane found his hands drifting lazily down his body with the aim to complete what last night's dream had started. He'd lain awake for hours after Graham had settled back in bed, long after his assistant's breathing had deepened into sleep. And when at last sleep had been within his reach Graham had been the one to move and roll closer to him. He could still feel the warmth from the man's body, and the urge to move closer to that inviting heat had almost overpowered his best intentions. So he'd lain awake half the night achingly hard and with no relief in sight. Arcane had even toyed with the idea of waking Graham up and testing the man's reactions to providing a little help for his situation. It was all Graham's fault anyway. If the man had checked into the Senator a little closer he would have realized it was a trap and they wouldn't now be in this position.

Realizing he'd been in the shower longer than intended Arcane shut the water off, still unsatisfied and now with the disturbing yet slightly arousing image of Graham naked and him and Graham naked together running through his head. *I must really be desperate now. Time to give James what he wants and get out of this prison before something happens I will regret. *

Pulling on his clothes and fixing his hair as best as he could Arcane strode out of the bathroom to where Graham was calmly waiting for him. For a brief second the Doctor's attention was fixed on how Graham's pants seemed to mold to his lower body before he realized what he was doing and directed a scowl so fierce at his assistant the man actually took a step backwards.

"Come on Graham," He snapped before the man could speak, "we have work to do." Striding out of the room he honestly didn't care if Graham followed or not. Reaching the lab, noticing the array of guards that loitered the halls every step of the journey, Arcane was in an even worse mood.

For most of the morning Arcane ignored Graham, speaking only when necessary. It was lunchtime before the silence was broken by the arrival of Sir James wife. She slid in through the door furtively still clad in a near see-through sheer negligee. Arcane's mouth went dry at the display of shapely flesh, almost whimpering as Melissa glided close to him and laid a hand on his arm.

"I was lonely last night Anton," Pressing closer Melissa trailed her fingers up Arcane's arm to the centre of his chest. "I hoped you would visit."

"I, I ..." Swallowing Arcane could feel his will to resist slide down the path to not existing. Feeling Melissa's thigh press insistently against his erection he was about to throw caution to the wind and find a quiet place when he felt Graham's arm tug frantically on his arm.

"Someone's coming!" He dimly heard Graham hiss.

Dazed he turned his head to look at his assistant, "what ..." Groaning his attention was snapped back to Melissa as he felt her hand cup him intimately.

"Please Anton," Voice husky, she tightened her grip, "I need you."

Graham could hear the voices coming closer and he knew without a doubt that if Hugo caught the Doctor this time the man would go through with his threat. Glaring at Melissa's triumph smirk he knew he had to do something � anything. Grabbing her by the arm he shoved her backwards, enjoying the shocked yelp the under-dressed tramp gave as she almost fell to the ground.

As the door knob started to turn Graham panicked, there was no time for Arcane to regain his composure, he somehow doubted even an ice bath could accomplish that. Taking a calming breath he did the only thing he could think of. Sliding his hands into his employer's hair he pulled Arcane into a kiss, pressing as close as he could. Graham sucked in a startled breath as he felt the Doctor's hands in turn haul him closer still and deepen the kiss. With a low whimper Graham felt Arcane's tongue dart into his mouth, bringing with it little sizzles of electricity. The contact was much too brief and left him gasping for air when the Doctor pulled back.

"Dr. Arcane," Sir James's voice crashed through Graham's mind like a bucket of cold water. Flushing in embarrassment he pulled away, carefully not looking the other man in the eyes, *Dr. Arcane is going to kill me. * Graham was spared any further dire thoughts as his employer took a step back, and slid an arm around his shoulders.

"Ah, Sir James," Arcane's smile was a trifle abashed. "I'm afraid your wife caught me in a rather intimate moment. He turned to Melissa who had been staring in horror at the display. "I hope you can forgive me Lady Willoughby-Smythe. I had no idea you were in the room. If I had, I can assure you, this never would have happened."

"I think you should go get dressed now, my love." Sir James interrupted anything his wife had been going to say. "You'll catch your death dressed like that." Feigning a bright smile Melissa turned to her husband, dropping a kiss on his cheek as she passed.

"You worry too much darling."

"Something I cannot help when it comes to you." Melissa merely smiled and patted him on the arm before leaving. When the door closed Sir James fixed his attention on Arcane. "I don't appreciate you behaving like that in front of my wife Doctor. Melissa has a rather delicate composure, and I don't like seeing her upset."

"Again I apologise Sir James;" Smoothly Arcane released Graham, tinting his smile with a touch of ruefulness. "I'm afraid I got rather caught up and didn't realize she had entered the room."

"I did not bring you here to have you so distracted Dr. Arcane. For your sake I hope you have some progress to report." The unspoken threat was clear as James waited impatiently.

"You must understand Sir James that these things take time. I must fully map your DNA structure first so I can isolate the specific genes that are causing your illness. Once that is complete finding a way to cure and reverse the efforts should prove simple.

"I don't want excuses Arcane, I want results. Or I shall have no need of you or your assistant." Unable to shout, the man�s raspy voice was all the more dangerous for its quietness.

"I promise you I am getting close to a cure," lying desperately Arcane strove to look sincere. The truth was even isolating the problem was proving more difficult then he had anticipated.

"You had better Doctor," Sir James turned to go, "I am not a patient man! Come along Hugo." Together they left the room, leaving behind a relieved Arcane and a very nervous Graham.

Graham almost called Sir James back so he wouldn't have to deal with what had happened with the Doctor. The minute the door was closed he felt Arcane's stare laser straight in on him.

"Graham," circling around his assistant Arcane considered the situation. Graham had most certainly saved a certain part of his anatomy by his actions � and given away the reason why he'd fled to the bathroom the other night. Graham hadn't left because he was upset at him being close, he�d left because he wanted him closer. *An interesting development, * smirking Arcane observed his assistant's alarmed expression. *I'll have to take this carefully. * Reaching out he gave Graham's face a familiar pat, "that was brilliant old chap. You certainly pulled my bacon out of the fire."

"You're, you're not mad!" Graham knew he was gaping but he couldn't help it.

"Of course I'm not mad Graham," Arcane put on a reassuring smile, "If that wretched waste of a human being had caught me with his wife I have no doubt Hugo would have delighted in carrying though on his threat.

"Er, yes sir."

"Now, let�s get back to work shall we? There is lots to accomplish and little time to do it in." Turning away Arcane walked back to the microscope, silently setting back to studying the magnified cells.

"Yes, sir." Muttering, Graham resumed his job of cataloging the cells already studied, firmly shutting the door on the days events.

By the middle of the afternoon the two men were working their way diligently through the slow process of gene mapping. They had barely spoken to each other and seemed to have some kind of tacit agreement to keep a distinct physical distance between them. However this grim dedication to work couldn't keep either of them from reflecting on other issues that were becoming increasingly complicated.

Dr. Arcane shifted and fidgeted uncomfortably throughout the afternoon, he couldn't find enough interest in his work to distract him from his insistent and apparently permanent state of arousal. He ached. His discomfort transcended even the tiredness of having virtually no sleep and the hunger from the very sketchy breakfast he had been allowed and no sign that he was even going to get lunch. Normally these misfortunes would have been enough to have him bitching at Graham remorselessly, but today he just didn't care.

He couldn't get the image of a scantily clad Melissa out of his mind, or the way her hand had caressed his groin, the recollection made him squirm in frustration. Much worse, however, was his constant replaying of Graham's surprising rescue attempt. He could not get the feel of their embrace out of his mind, the way they had *both* responded. Graham was working at another table across the room and Arcane tried not to look at him, but he kept being drawn to quick, covert glances. Dammit, those clothes fitted the man so much better than his own choice of wardrobe. It was possible now to see that Graham was in surprisingly good shape, and he moved well. Had he ever noticed that before? Arcane shook himself, what was he doing looking at his assistant's body? His warm, familiar, oddly seductive body. Arcane bit his lip and tried to stop looking, especially to stop himself looking when Graham bent to take samples in and out of the fridge. No, he was not watching another man's backside; he was definitely not taking in how good it looked in those tight trousers. Arcane swallowed, his mouth dry, and forced himself to concentrate on work.

Graham grabbed the fresh batch of samples and scuttled back to his bench. He was well aware of how his employer's eyes followed him and he was desperate to avoid that burning gaze. Arcane did not look well, haggard, tired, restless, and his instincts were to go to him and try to look after his well-being. The experiences of the last few days were, however, too difficult for Graham to contemplate. Especially this morning. He glowed with pride when he remembered how his quick thinking had saved the Doctor, and how warmly he'd been praised. But he flinched at the memory of his loss of control, and how he had responded to the thrilling passion in Arcane's kiss, to the tight embrace and to the feel of that slender aroused body pressed against him. *Don't go there. * He took a deep breath and forced himself to reject the images that came into his mind. He would not let himself respond.

Graham hadn't realised that his harsher breathing had been audible. He glanced up to see Arcane looking at him, something in his eyes really quite frightening. He looked away quickly.

Arcane hadn't been able to avoid watching Graham as he appeared to be going into some kind of daydream. He certainly wasn't thinking about work, Arcane knew that glazed expression but he had never expected to see it on Graham's face. When the man *came too* it was with an embarrassed display of fluster. As Graham looked away Arcane grinned smugly.

It was about 3:30 in the afternoon when Hugo came to fetch them. Arcane and Graham had rather given up hope of food, but apparently lunch was just late today. Sir James' devoted aide announced that they were to assemble in the dining room, but he produced a new batch of samples that needed unpacking and labeling first. "Well, old chap, why don't you just help Graham with the chores and I'll go on ahead." Arcane was hungry and restless, he wanted out of that lab. He didn't give Hugo time to argue, just swept out of the room in his best imperious, stalking mode.

The Doctor now had a good enough grasp of the geography of the castle to make his way easily to the dining room. His mind was solely focused on food and he was assuming that lunch was just for him and Graham so he was taken by surprise to find that Melissa was in the room, casually checking over the cold buffet. Arcane recoiled in the doorway, being alone with that woman did not seem a good idea when the sinister Hugo might be just minutes behind him.

Melissa had heard him; however, she turned and treated him to her seductive smile. "Anton," she said breathily, "how delightful." She walked towards him, hands on her slender hips, chest thrust out to give him a good view of those ample breasts which were displayed to advantage by her tight fitting dress.

Arcane groaned he was frozen to the spot. He never thought he would have reason to regret his healthy libido but he was certainly beginning to. His cock throbbed with anticipation and his balls tightened, his mind urged him to run but his body was consumed with sexual need and he just could not tear himself away from this enticing female presence.

Melissa smiled warmly and took him by the arm. She pressed up close to him as she led him into the room. "It is good to see you."

"Melissa, dear..." Arcane started to protest.

Melissa grabbed his face and silenced him with a kiss; she forced her eager tongue into his mouth and ground her warm body against his. Arcane gave up all attempts at resistance.

When she surfaced from the kiss Melissa grabbed his hands and pulled them down to caress her shapely body. "I need a man Anton, a healthy virile man." She gazed lustfully into his eyes and steered his hands down to the hem of her skirt. He needed no further encouragement to explore, hands following the smooth, nylon clad swell of her thighs. He exclaimed in pleasure as he found her stocking tops and the lacy wisps of garter belt, further investigation revealed that she wore no other underwear, Arcane groaned out loud, she was ready and eager for him. He was sweating with desire, his whole body unbearably tense. He had to have this woman, now. Melissa fumbled eagerly at his clothes, unfastening his belt and managing to unzip his trousers. She caressed his hard erection through his briefs and matched his groans of desire with her own passion. "Take me, Anton, I can't wait."

Mesmerised with desire, Arcane lifted her skirt and steadied himself for the long awaited relief of his need. He pushed her against the wall and she reached down to release his cock from the confines of his underwear. Which was when Graham came running into the room, frantic with worry, and careened right into Arcane. He had been deeply alarmed when the Doctor had gone off without him; he had the very worst feeling. And he'd been right, that damned woman had been lurking about ready to lead his employer to his destruction. Graham didn't doubt that his running away from Hugo had caused suspicion, and that the knife-wielding henchman would be close behind. He grabbed Arcane, ignoring his resistance and his frustrated little whimpers. Graham shook him, "Snap out of it Sir."

It was clear that he wasn't going to be able to get Arcane properly dressed before Hugo turned up, he wasn't getting any help from the bemused Doctor and his state of arousal made it all too difficult. Instead he grabbed Arcane roughly and sat him at the table, where his state of undress was hidden. He hadn't paid much attention to Melissa but by the time he did spare her a glance she had straightened out her skirt and was flashing looks of pure hatred at him. *Tough luck you cheap little tramp, if you think you're going to put the Doctor in danger then you'd better reckon with me. * Graham favoured her with his most angelic smile and she snarled at him as she sat down opposite Arcane. Graham took the seat next to his employer. By the time Hugo lumbered into the room the little group were seated and looking positively demure. He cast a suspicious look around the room, he *knew* something had been going on, if only he could prove it.

Melissa had recovered her cool demeanor, "Hugo, would you go and fetch Sir James? We are ready to eat."

The three at the table spent the next few moments in icy silence. Melissa alternated between glaring at Graham and fluttering her eyelashes in Arcane's direction. It was wasted effort because neither man was looking at her. Graham was entirely focused on how Arcane was getting on, Arcane was gazing fixedly down at the table trying to calm his raging desires and get some control over his own body. He reached out a shaky hand to take the glass of wine that Graham poured him and was glad to moisten his dry mouth and ease the tension in his throat.

When Hugo and Sir James arrived they started an uneasy meal. James seemed puzzled but unsure as to what was going on; Hugo fixed his suspicious gaze on Arcane and made sure to toy with his favourite, wickedly sharp knife in a meaningful manner. They ate in near silence, Arcane's appetite was ruined but he forced himself to eat, concentrating on the food and hoping that he would get a chance to discretely tidy himself before he had to leave the table. He was aware that he *really* needed to deal with his physical needs before they led him to disaster. He carefully ignored Melissa, who was watching him every bit as carefully as Hugo, and made sure to speak only to Graham.

The Doctor had begun to feel calmer, if not exactly comfortable, when his hard won self-control was shattered. He felt something work its way up his leg and then there was a firm pressure in his lap. He looked across at Melissa who was smiling coyly as she pressed her stockinged foot into his groin. She wriggled her toes and pressed down on his sensitive flesh, which wasn't much protected by the thin fabric of his briefs. Arcane bit down hard, bruising his lip, in his attempt not to react to this maneuver. He was well aware that he couldn't take this kind of stimulation. Melissa wriggled her big toe hard against his cock and Arcane couldn't keep from wriggling in his seat. Despite his best efforts he let out a little yelp that was as much pain as pleasure. It was certainly odd behaviour for the lunch table and had both James and Hugo looking at him, with Hugo grinning humourlessly as he fingered his knife.

Dr. Arcane cast a desperate look at Graham, who knew something had gone wrong but was perplexed as to what it was. However he did have a simple formula for figuring out when the Doctor was in trouble - find the woman and follow it through from there. That was easy in this case. He caught the triumphant look on Melissa's face and worked it out. With no little degree of satisfaction he reached under the table and grasped her intrusive leg, pushing it roughly away. This movement coincided exactly with Hugo's decision to catch Arcane out. As a result Graham had his hand just near to Arcane's exposed groin when Hugo pushed the table away from their side in a dramatic cascade of rattling dishes and spilt food.

He was rewarded by the sight of Graham apparently engaged in some interesting foreplay with his employer and spluttered in indignant disappointment. Sir James got to his feet with great difficulty and held himself upright. "Doctor, I have never encountered such debauched and incontinent behaviour as that between you and your assistant. Can't you restrain your animal passions to your bedroom rather than constantly flaunting yourselves publicly, especially in front of my wife?"

He gestured to Melissa to get up from the table, and Hugo rushed to assist him. "You may have a moment to compose yourselves, then I insist that you return to work."

It took a while for the room to clear and Graham sat frozen, worried about Arcane's response. He was amazed when the Doctor laughed, a sound of genuine amusement. "That was priceless old chap, the disappointment of that Neanderthal twit when he just caught me with you!" Graham sagged with relief; he'd got something right. It was amazing.

Then the Doctor turned serious; he stood up and grasped Graham's hand, forcing him to his feet. He grasped his assistant roughly and pulled him close. Graham was terribly aware that Arcane had not yet zipped himself up and he struggled against getting to close, it was too intimate an embrace.

"Graham," Arcane said gently, "you know you're the only one I trust." He bent his head to brush his lips against Graham's neck, "I need you," he whispered, "I can't go on like this." As he spoke he ran his hands over Graham's back, gently caressing him.

"I... I." Stuttering Graham felt his voice crack as the Doctor�s hand moved under his shirt and grazed along his bare skin. He weakly pushed at his employer, "No, I..."

"Come on Graham," Arcane coaxed, teeth nipping at the man's earlobe, "I know you want me. Your body tells me everything I need to know."

Stumped for a way to deny what was by now obvious Graham froze in place as the Doctor took things to the next level, grasping his hand and placing it over his brief covered erection. His brain quickly took a trip downwards as he felt that hot heat pressing against his hand. With a huge surge of willpower he managed to free his hand, fingers reluctantly pulling away. Stepping backwards he avoided his employer's gaze, spared the need to try and salvage the situation by the reappearance of Hugo. With a start Graham felt Arcane grab his arm and jerk him so he was standing in front of the Doctor.

"Your performance may have fooled my employer Dr. Arcane," Hugo didn't even glance at Graham, instead fixing Arcane with a glare. "I know you are up to something and I will be watching you closely! No one disobeys's Sir James."

"Hugo, old chap, I can assure nothing is going on that you are not already fully aware of." Smoothly Arcane smiled, fingers frantically trying to yank up his zipper over tender flesh. He finally managed to get his pants done up with the minimum amount of pain.

"Save it Arcane," Hugo snarled, his manner losing all attempts at civility. "I suggest you get back to work before I find a better way to use your time." For emphasis he flicked his knife out, smirking as Arcane paled and took a step back.

"Er, getting back to work seems like a jolly good idea. I think I'll go do that right now," Swallowing he backed out of the room with as much grace as possible. Throwing a glare at his assistant, "come along Graham."

Silently Graham trudged along the hallways, for the first time he was happy that the Doctor wasn't talking to him. Maybe he'd forgotten about what happened over lunch, yeah, that was it ... the whole thing had just been Arcane's frustration talking. A man of Dr. Arcane's genius couldn�t really want him. Graham did experience an annoying wave of disappointment at that thought, an emotion he determinedly ignored.

They reached the lab intact, Arcane getting straight to work with Graham following his lead. This continued for several hours, the specimen samples slowly but surely reducing in number. Bending over to load the latest batch back into the refrigeration unit Graham abruptly felt a presence behind him.

Turning around he swallowed heavily at the hungry look Arcane was giving him. Graham opened his mouth to speak only to find a very agile tongue in the way as the Doctor surged forward and pinned him against the wall. Defenses crumbling in the first assault Graham clung to Dr. Arcane, groaning as he felt a knee slid between his thighs to press insistently against an erection he didn't even know he had.

*Gotcha, * smirking triumphantly at the needy sound his assistant made Arcane relaxed his hold. Sure now that Graham was his for the taking. Thus he was unprepared for the sudden shove Graham made, stumbling backwards and staring in shock.

Breathe rasping heavily Graham hunched in on himself, "I'm, I'm sorry Doctor... really..." Biting his lower lip he looked pleadingly at his employer to understand. "This isn�t right, I, I work for you, I � " *shouldn�t want this as much as I do, * thankfully that excuse didn't make it past his vocal cords. "It just would be wrong." He finished lamely.

"Graham," Arcane gritted in frustration, "I do believe I am more qualified in making the decision on what is right or wrong here." He made a move back towards Graham only to stop when the man slid away from him. "Is there something you aren�t telling me Graham? I know you want me."

"I -" The word 'don't' seemed to stick in his throat.

"Don't bother to deny it Graham," Lowering his voice intimately he again cornered his assistant against the wall. Running one hand down the man's chest he pressed the other one against his shoulder. Leaning in Arcane's lips barely grazed Graham's neck, just enough that he could feel his assistant shiver and his pulse jump.

"Sir, please," Graham whispered, throat tightening, as the paradoxical need to hurl himself closer to Arcane and run as far away as possible overwhelmed him. With a small distressed sound Graham managed to push the Doctor away. Panicking, needing to get away before the reasons why not giving into his employer faded Graham headed for the door, "I, I should go get more samples. We ... we're almost out." Not waiting for a reaction he hurried out of the lab breathing a sigh of relief once the door closed safely behind him. Not leaving things to chance he hurried off in the first direction he turned. A few minutes to himself was all he needed to regain his composure.

"Graham ..." Groaning in frustration Arcane considered beating his head against the wall as his assistant practically fled from the room. *Dammit Graham, why must you always make things so bloody difficult? * Scowling he considered going after the man before quickly deciding it was best to let Graham calm down. *Besides he can't go far, I do know where he's spending the night. * Grinning Arcane felt a thrill of anticipation surge though him at the thought.

Shuffling down yet another identical hallway Graham decided he was quite lost and that Sir James had a truly awful taste in home design. Anyone with that many old suits of armour had to have a few screws loose. Pausing to gaze at one really horrible rusted suit Graham almost jumped out of his skin when a hand lightly touched his arm.

"Let off your leash little man," Stomach sinking Graham turned to face the woman with a barely concealed frown of distaste.

"The same could be said of you Milady," *tramp, * his mind supplied.

Melissa laughed, eyes crinkling up in amusement, "Perhaps I should go visit Anton now that you're not in the way."

"You leave him alone!" Graham took a threatening step forward.

"Ohh, are you defending his honour Graham," Sweetly she smiled, "Does he know you're in love with him?"

Eyebrows raising Graham gave her his best-baffled look; "I have no idea what you're talking about lady."

"You don't hide it very well, I can see it every time you look at him when you think he isn�t watching." Grinning she leaned closer, "of course you know he doesn�t care about you in the slightest."

"You don't know anything about Dr. Arcane and me!" Nevertheless her words only served to give strength to the little voice that whispered in the back of his mind.

"I know a man like Anton will never truly want someone like you;" she raked a gaze from his head to his feet, her expression making clear what she thought. Despite himself Graham cringed, "He needs someone that's his equal not merely a servant." Tilting her head she looked thoughtfully at the silent and somewhat stricken looking man. "And you know what servant's are for don't you. For taking care of needs and then disposing of."

"You, you have no idea what you're talking about!" Firmly Graham collected himself enough to snap back, holding steady before her patronizing stare.

"You can try to fool yourself as much as you want Graham, but you and I both know that the only reason Anton would touch you is that he can't have me." Pityingly she patted his arm. "Try not to take it so hard Graham; being a substitute isn�t that degrading. Oh wait," Melissa stopped, one perfectly manicured fingernail tapping against her lips, "yes, it really is that degrading. Still," she smiled crudely, "at least you'll provide enough release for Anton that when he reaches me he'll last for a long, long time." Laughing cruelly she swept past Graham's shuddering form, leaving him alone with her words.

*Bitch* mentally shouting after that dreadful woman Graham slumped against the wall, trying to regain control over his emotions. He felt positively sick and had to wipe a layer of cold sweat off his forehead. *I shouldn�t let her get to me; she doesn�t know anything about me! * Fiercely he stamped on the little voice that agreed with everything that tramp had said, that said she was right and he was nothing more to Arcane than a convenience, ready and waiting to be used. Graham was still lost in thought when Hugo found him, with no idea how long he'd been standing in the same place.

"You should not be here Mr. Graham," Hugo's deep voice grated, one huge hand reaching out and snagging him by the arm. "It's time for supper, everyone is waiting. Please follow me.

Not given much choice Graham let himself be dragged along behind Sir James retainer, not even bothering to object to the too tight grip on his arm. Although the thought of eating made him feel nauseous he knew he had to put up the appearance that everything was all right. It wouldn�t do for the Doctor to suspect anything was wrong. The last thing he needed right now was to have his employer question him.

Reaching the dinning room Graham could feel himself shrink back slightly as the first face he saw was Melissa's innocently smiling one. Fighting the urge to punch her in the perfect teeth he muttered some apology for being late and took his place sitting besides Arcane.

Arcane raised an eyebrow at his assistant, somewhat startled when Graham just looked at him before turning to pick at his food. Instinctively he felt that something must have happened, spotting Melissa's triumphant expression Arcane quickly surmised it had something to do with her. *I'll get the truth later, * frowning he also began eating, his appetite not quite as strong as it had been a few moments ago.

Supper was a silent affair with very little conversation and what there was of it was strained. With Graham replying only in monosyllables, Dr. Arcane not bothering to conceal his distaste for the company and Melissa openly flirting with Arcane, even Sir James was relieved once the affair drew to a close. With the Doctor remaining unresponsive to his wife's flirtations Sir James decided that he might just have been wrong about his original impression of the man.

"I think it's time for everyone to get some rest," Sir James abruptly stood up, "You have a long day ahead of you tomorrow Dr. Arcane. I expect results." Gesturing for his wife to stand up also he started to make his slow way out of the room. "Show our guests to their room Hugo. Good night gentlemen."

Nodding respectively Hugo waited for his master to leave before scowling at the two men left. "Come along please." Arcane stood up and made to follow as Hugo strode out of the room, Graham reluctantly trailing behind. He wished he could ask for a separate room, dreading what might happen once he was alone with the Doctor. Graham knew Arcane had noticed something was wrong, and it wouldn�t be like the man to leave a mystery alone.

It only seemed like moments later when he was left all alone in their room, with only the huge bed between him and his employer.

"What's wrong Graham?" Arcane moved closer, stopping when he observed Graham take a reciprocal step backwards.

"Nothing, Sir, what makes you think something is wrong?" Graham wondered if he wished hard enough he would be able to sink through the floor.

"Don't play coy with me Graham," The Doctor stared at his assistant; he hadn�t seen the man this nervous in a long time. "Did that woman say or do something to you?"

"I, er, I ..." Graham gazed around him, trying to avoid meeting the Doctor's eyes, aware that he had almost no will of his own once his employer got the chance to work his hypnotic ways on him. He grabbed his pajamas, which were laid out on the bed; "I just really want a shower." Entering the bathroom before Arcane could say anything else, he locked the door and sagged against it, heart racing. He was grateful for the sanctuary it afforded but was well aware that he had only bought some time; he couldn't stay here all night.

A part of him wanted to surrender to the inevitable, just to get it over with and stop the anticipation of what could happen. And a treacherous voice in the back of his mind concurred, *you want it; you know you've always wanted it; you've just been too much of a coward to admit it. * Graham bit his lip and stifled the groan that threatened to escape him. He remembered the heat of the Doctor's body pressed against his, the feel of that smooth skin under his hands and, most of all, the brief contact he had had with Arcane's erection. His own body responded with desire, he wanted the man, how could he not? He had been with him so long, loved him so long.

That thought bought back the vicious words of that conniving bitch Melissa. Love?

Much though he despised that woman he knew she was right, Dr. Arcane didn�t feel anything remotely like that towards himself; even �like� was stretching things. He was kept around because he was useful, a convenience. If he had sex with the Doctor it would just be another way that Arcane could have power over him. Graham felt his erection wilt, his desire fading away with the pain of loving someone who would never return it.

He threw his pajamas onto the floor and undressed wearily. When he stepped into the shower he held his face up to the first spray of water and let it beat back the coldness he felt.

Dr. Arcane prowled the bedroom restlessly, when he heard the shower he realised Graham might be some time. *Damn him, why is he being so difficult? He obviously wants me so why can't we just get on with it? * He began to get undressed, critically evaluating his reflection in the full-length mirror. In all honesty he wasn't looking his best; the strain of the last few days was showing. Still that wasn't necessarily a bad thing, the haggard look had its romantic side and Graham was such a nurturing little sod.

Arcane let his clothes lay the way they fell, they weren't his property or his choice and he had no interest in looking after them. Besides, he smiled to himself Graham would tidy up later. He was too well programmed to resist.

He examined his naked body in the mirror, too thin even by his own standards. When he got out of here he was going to have a damned good holiday, get some proper rest and food. And, he couldn't help thinking about it, women. His cock, already swollen, twitched and hardened some more. That was a mistake, thinking about women, thinking about Melissa. He took a deep breath, tried to calm down and not let the nagging ache in his groin get to him. It wouldn't be long now, he just had to get Graham out of that bloody bathroom, settle the little twerp's nerves and then he could get some relief.

He checked out his reflection once more, he had thought of waiting for Graham naked - it was certainly the straightforward option - but his assistant was obviously skittish and that might panic him. Reluctantly he put on the rather dull cotton pajamas that had been chosen for him and lay on the bed, spread-eagled so that Graham couldn't miss the prominent bulge at his groin. What a lucky chap Graham was, he was about to have his first experience of Anton Arcane. The Doctor smiled reflectively, at last something was going to go right in this damnable place, he was going to get the sex he needed and deserved and Graham was going to have an experience that would make him even more obligingly loyal and devoted. His grin turned wolfish at the thought of how overwhelmed and grateful Graham was going to be after this. The sound of running water ceased and Arcane forced himself not to look towards the bathroom door.

Graham delayed as long as he could; drying himself off and changing into his pajamas but finally he had to leave his sanctuary. When he crept into the bedroom the Doctor lay staring fixedly at the ceiling. Unfortunately he hadn't fallen asleep, well that had always been unlikely. Graham tried to find some little task to do to delay the fearful moment. He started fussing around with Arcane's clothes, hanging them in the wardrobe until he heard the calm voice behind him.

"Stop that."

He dropped the clothes immediately and turned round. Arcane had lifted himself slightly on one elbow so that he could face his assistant. "Stop fussing Graham and come to bed. Now." His voice was so beautiful that it took the edge off the element of command. Graham had always found that English accent irresistible even when it was used to scream abuse, now it was low and husky and Graham was hypnotised by the sound. He rubbed his sweating palms together and made his way carefully around to the free side of the bed where he perched nervously on the edge.

Arcane reached out and patted the area of bedspread next to him. "Come closer, I don't bite."

Graham moved further up the bed until he was balanced awkwardly up near the pillows. "We need to talk, Sir." he spoke determinedly; surely Arcane would see how foolish it was for them to ... to ... he couldn�t even complete the thought in his own mind.

"Talk," Arcane said smoothly, "of course Graham, are you ready to tell me what's wrong?"

Graham clutched at a pillow nervously, "I...I... just don't think this is a good idea. I'm your employee Sir."

"My dear chap, you are much more than my employee, you are my friend and have been for a long time." Arcane feigned his best sentimental expression.

*Well you certainly kept that a secret from me! * Graham twisted his fingers nervously together; "I still think we would regret it Sir, if anything happened."

Arcane managed to keep from gritting his teeth in frustration. How much more torment was he to endure. He squirmed slightly in his discomfort. Graham was turning out to be more annoying than he could have expected. He slid over so that he could get closer to Graham, who squirmed away holding a pillow in front of him like a shield. Arcane recognised that this situation needed cautious handling. He reached out a hand and lightly laid it on Graham's leg, no pressure, no sudden movements.

"Graham," he spoke as gently as possible, "you have to tell me what's really wrong? You wanted me earlier, I know you were nervous but I felt you respond." He moved his hand higher, stroking Graham's thigh. It felt good to be touching someone. He felt the other man grow calmer under his hand and moved a little closer still, so that their bodies were almost touching. He moved his hand higher, just brushing it over Graham's groin. He was aware that their closeness was having an effect; there were definite signs of arousal.

Arcane couldn't quite resist the urge to move in a little more, he pressed his hand down so that he could feel the heat and the throbbing pulse in Graham's growing erection. For just a moment there was a welcoming response, Arcane heard a slight groan from the other man and felt his cock thrust against his hand. Encouraged he reached out to drag Graham down into an easier position.

Without any warning Graham pulled away. He pushed at Arcane with both hands and forced himself out of bed. He stood trembling, gazing down at his employer. "No," putting as much determination as he could muster into his voice, Graham repeated firmly, "No."

Arcane looked up at him, "No! You're saying no to *me*!" He couldn�t believe it � Graham was turning him down!!

"I won't do this, Sir. I won't."

Arcane was aware that his temper was barely under control. He had been so warm snugged up close to Graham, so sure that he was about to be satisfied that even the ache in his groin felt like pleasurable anticipation. Now he was disappointed, frustrated and damned angry. He breathed deeply, he had to at least get Graham back into bed and losing his temper wouldn't achieve that.

"Melissa said something to you didn't she, something to make you afraid of this. I promise you there is nothing to be afraid of I'll be gentle. I'll make sure you enjoy yourself." He kept his tone low and soothing.

Graham stood trembling, how could he explain? He couldn't talk about his feelings to Dr. Arcane, he just couldn�t. The man would only use it against him in same way. Graham was surprised that he could feel so harsh towards Dr Arcane; he had never felt this way before. But that bitch Melissa was right he was used and exploited. The Doctor just wanted someone to satisfy his lust, there was no feeling here. Graham flushed; he had to keep Arcane from learning how he felt, even if it meant admitting something he was quite embarrassed over. Panicking he blurted out, "I've never...I don't know how."

Arcane forced a smile, "Is that all old chap, first time with a man? Don't worry, I'm a bit out of practice in that area myself but I assure you I know what to do. I'll make sure you enjoy yourself."

"No, I've never, with anyone ... not with ..." Graham stared at the floor, aware of the red creeping up his face, "I mean not with a woman either."

"You're a virgin!" Arcane couldn�t keep the shock from his voice, noting how his assistant flinched ever so slightly. God how could anyone reach his age and still be virgin?! He choked back a groan; he hadn't anticipated it was going to be this difficult. Clearing his throat he went for the logical approach, "you responded to me earlier Graham, you must want to experience this. I'm sure you want *something*?"

"I don't know, Sir. I'm just really tired, can't we just ... sleep?" Graham carefully lifted his eyes, giving the Doctor a pleading expression. "Please, Sir."

Arcane pondered the question, being close to that warm and familiar body had felt nice, quite comfortable really - except that it further inflamed his desperate need for relief. Still if he said yes it would at least get Graham back into bed, and present the opportunity to encourage the man's repressed desires. "If that's what you want, Graham."

"Yes, Sir." He couldn�t believe Arcane was seriously giving up, still, best not to look a gift horse in the mouth.

Arcane sighed, "Very well. You'd better get into bed before you catch cold." He gestured to the bathroom door, "I'm just going to...." When Arcane came back Graham was tightly curled up on his side of the bed. Arcane shrugged and climbed in beside him, lying just close enough to feel his warmth and risking resting one hand lightly on his waist. Graham tensed for a moment, wondering if Arcane was going to break their agreement and try something, but he seemed to have resigned himself to going chastely to sleep.

Graham didn't know how long it had taken him to get to sleep, and he couldn't conjure up any clear memory of the dreams that had coloured his sleep. He just knew that he had dreamed. He woke up in pitch darkness and was momentarily confused; he was lying next to someone, tucked in close to a softly snoring body. He wasn't alarmed, despite this being an almost unprecedented experience. Remembering who was curled up against him and whose arms were loosely wrapped around him caused Graham to smile in the darkness, it felt good. He wriggled slightly as he tried to settle back to sleep and felt the tell tale hardness that pressed against his thigh. Well, he could hardly be surprised at that, the Doctor had had an almost permanent hard-on since their imprisonment and close physical contact wasn't going to help change that. Despite his own best intentions Graham felt his body responding to the warmth surrounding him. He tried to distract himself, determined not to let desire affect his judgment. The Doctor was probably dreaming about that slut Melissa anyway. How could such a brilliant man let such an obvious piece of trash get to him? Graham sighed, it was something he'd never known, physical desire for him had never been enough to take the risk of exposing himself in that way. Even with no actual experience he knew he wouldn�t be able to shrug off sex as causally as the Doctor did. Especially with the way he felt about the man.

*So why are you just laying there? * Came an intrusive little voice from the recesses of his mind, somewhere near to where those elusive dreams were stored. *How come you're letting a jealous bitch poison your mind against the one person you care about? How come you listened to anything she said? *

Graham lay still, trying to sort out the conflicting thoughts that were scurrying around in his brain. Why was he letting *anyone* else presume to comment on his relationship with Dr. Arcane. Sure the Doctor could be selfish, but he was also a great man and above the petty considerations of ordinary people. Graham knew that he had had nothing and been nothing till he met Anton Arcane and now he was creating this great melodrama because Arcane wanted to meet his sexual needs with the one person who really knew and understood him. He shifted, growing slightly uncomfortable now, too hot in his cocoon of blankets.

Almost unconsciously he had let his hand stray down to the growing bulge in his pajamas. The Doctor was right, he did want this, his body was a damned sight more honest than his mind. And he admitted to himself, he was curious about sex. It wasn't like he'd never considered doing it before, just ... no one had ever interested him enough. Well, except Stella, but that ... that wasn't something he was going to think about. Still he had learnt so much from his mentor; why not also learn about sex? For all he knew they might never get out of this place, they might die here, and it was Anton Arcane, the man who already owned his loyalty and devotion. Why not let it happen?

So deciding Graham began to press himself back against Arcane, moving so he could feel Arcane's erection more firmly. At first he got no response, but then he heard a faint moan from the Doctor and felt him react to the pressure, thrusting back against Graham's movements.

"Graham," a faint whisper in the darkness, "are you awake?"

He swallowed anxiously before answering, "Yes Sir."

A momentary pause and then, "I see." Graham could almost imagine the grin on his employers face as the arms around his waist tightened and gently rolled him onto his back. "Come here then."

Arcane pulled his assistant in tightly, kissing him, gently, lightly at first but then with more intensity. He pulled himself on top of Graham, grinning in satisfaction as the man gasped and shivered. Nibbling on his assistant's lower lip, he waited until Graham opened his mouth, trying to deepen the kiss before he gave in and allowed his tongue to tangle with the other man's.

Graham was making rather desperate whining noises, hands clutching his upper arms and hips rocking upwards before he broke the kiss. Arcane slipped one leg between Graham's thighs, grinding his erection against Graham's in a hard, rhythmical movement. The pressure had them both panting, Arcane's cock was so hard that the stimulation was as much pain as pleasure but he could not bear to stop the agonising, delicious feelings; especially with the way Graham was moving under him, so desperately and out-of-control.

Arcane unwrapped his arms from around Graham and struggled with his pajamas, trying to wriggle out of the trousers with as little interruption to his intense thrusting as possible. He was breathing heavily as he managed to kick the intrusive garment off. "I want you naked," he gasped to Graham, his voice rough with need and exertion. Graham had never realised before his own hunger for the touch of naked flesh. He struggled to help the Doctor undress him, all the while impatient to get his hands on the newly exposed body of his employer.

Graham ran his hands over Arcane�s back, tracing soft skin and firm muscles with reverent fingertips, emboldened when the Doctor shivered. Why had he never realised that this was what he wanted, to be able to touch Arcane like this. He let his hands wander down, daring to go lower, sliding curious fingers over the Doctor�s erection, instantly addicted to the hot, silky feel. He was rewarded by a low moan that encouraged him to bring both hands round to fully caress Arcane's cock. He had to shift slightly get some room to explore and while this did lessen the grinding pleasure of their two erections rubbing together; it was worth it though to feel the full naked expanse of the other man's erection, curling his hand around it to feel the size of it, thrilling to the heat and throbbing pulse under his hands.

Arcane smiled at his assistant's newly discovered enthusiasm. Letting one hand stray, he blazed a trail down soft, sweating skin before griped Graham's flesh with gentle pressure, sliding his palm up and down in an age-old rhythm. Graham cried out, thrusting wildly against his employer; that one gesture had him so close to coming he was unable to breathe for one glorious second. Slowing down the pace Arcane released his hold on Graham's cock and gently pushed him away, smirking at his assistant's whimpers of disappointment.

"Slowly, old chap," he licked a path to the man's ear, "we don't want to rush it."

Graham struggled to hear what the Doctor was saying, that accent so close breathed across his ear had him arching shamelessly up against the other man, "Sir?" Plaintively he wiggled under the Doctor's confining weight, trying to increase the friction.

"Graham, I want you, I want to be inside you." Arcane bit down on the nearest piece of flesh.

Graham stilled, almost losing his erection at the bolt of cold fear that shot through him. "Sir, I, I..."

Arcane stroked his assistant reassuringly, "It'll be good," he husked, "you can trust me." He could feel that Graham was still resistant, damn that was frustrating, why couldn't the man just co-operate? He struggled to keep his tone gentle, he had waited so long and he was going to have a proper fuck whether Graham liked it or not.

He reached out a hand to the bedside table, glad that he'd had the foresight to bring some hand cream in from the bathroom. "I've got lubricant," he reassured, "I won't hurt you." Wrapping his arms around Graham he gently maneuvered him onto his stomach. There was no resistance, just a limp passivity. Arcane kept talking, nonsense mostly, he knew that Graham was entranced by his voice and his accent - it usually had a calming effect.

"Sir, please," Graham protested weakly, Arcane�s reassurances doing little to dull his fear. "I..."

Arcane stroked down Graham�s back, fingers digging into tense muscles, before running his hands over his arse with a caressing touch. "Nice arse," allowing his desire to show in a husky whisper, grinning as his assistant let out a breathy moan, "I need it Graham, I need you. You have to experience this, to know what it feels like to be truly joined. Don't you want to feel me inside you Graham? Filling you completely?" Placing kisses across his assistant's shoulders, he waited for an answer. The only sounds the other man was capable of making were little incoherent whimpers. *Left the little bugger speechless, * smugly he considered the lack of protest as a sign of assent.

Graham lifted his hips to allow Arcane to slide a couple of pillows under him, trying to ignore the faint feeling of ridiculousness of the position. *I do want this, don't I? He won't hurt me. * Graham choked back a whimper of uncertainty, his mind whirling.

Arcane ran his hands over the raised buttocks of his assistant, delightful, so submissive. He found he rather liked Graham's sad little attempts to resist him, added a little flavour to the encounter. His cock throbbed in anticipation as he contemplated at last being able to satisfy himself. Dammit, he needed this. He picked up the jar of hand cream and unscrewed the lid, giving momentary consideration to whether he should use a condom but that would mean going to fetch his wallet and clearly Graham was no infection risk. And as for himself, obviously he was all right. Anton Arcane did *not* contract sexually transmitted diseases. He scooped up a big handful of cream and slathered it over his hands before working some between Graham's buttocks. The intimate touch was met with a halfhearted wriggle of resistance. Arcane ran a calming hand down Graham's back, "Easy now," he urged, "this will hurt the more you struggle."

Arcane eased one well-lubricated finger into Graham's body, feeling the tight clenched resistance from the ring of muscle that guarded the passage. "Do try to relax old chap, that will makes things a lot easier for you." he paused to place a reassuring kiss on one shoulder.

Graham was trying to choke back his fear, *relax? How could he possibly relax? * He fought the urge to resist, *just keep calm, let it happen, lots of men do this, it can't be so bad. * Breathing deeply he did his best to relax and enjoy to not-totally-unpleasant sensations.

Arcane was feeling impatient now; his cock was twitching to get into that hot, tight place currently occupied by his finger. Using more cream he slid a second finger to join the first. This time Graham couldn't hold back a cry as the fingers were used to widen the entrance rather ruthlessly. Arcane stretched and prodded, wanting to prepare the way for his cock as quickly as possible. Graham was certainly still tense, and ideally he should be worked on a bit longer, stretched more slowly with another finger. And while a part of him would enjoy taking his time, enjoy teasing Graham until the man was writhing deliciously under him ... a larger part needed to satisfy himself. NOW! So he pressed on even more ruthlessly, spreading his fingers to force the entrance wider, before deciding he had done enough. His cock was almost unbearably swollen, the head weeping with pre-cum. He needed the release of a good fuck and he needed it now.

The Doctor knelt up on the bed behind Graham, slicking his erection with the hand cream, even that light touch coming close to undoing him. He edged closer, his cock nudging at Graham's entrance. The throbbing, swollen head was pushed relentlessly into his assistant's body, both men crying out. Arcane cried with delight and triumph as he felt the hot passage tight around his aching flesh - with such exquisite and agonising pressure. Graham, however, cried with pain, he felt as though he was being ripped apart as his employer slid all the way in without pause.

"Relax," he gasped, it took all his willpower to hold still and let Graham adjust, waiting until the man hesitantly moved back against him. He panted, hands griping Graham's hips tightly, "So good, Graham," he moaned, pulling almost all the way out before thrusting back in. This time his cock found Graham's prostate and rubbed hard against it.

Graham was the one to moan then, the sensations in his arse changed with a jolt. He still felt the burn from the intrusion but lightning bolts of pleasure shot through him at every thrust. Even the fullness of having another man's cock filling him - Arcane's cock, his dazed mind supplied - was starting to feel pleasant. More than pleasant actually. A rather tingly warmth was flooding through his body, making him gasp and thrust back against the pressure, wanting desperately to feel Arcane faster and harder but unable to vocalize the words.

They were both breathless and sweating as they climbed rapidly towards a climax. Almost instinctively Arcane reached round to Graham's cock, intending to help him come but there was little need. Moaning and crying out, each in their separate worlds of pleasure and sensation they came within seconds of each other.

Arcane slumped on top of his assistant, "Oh that was good," he gasped weakly, "damned good." He allowed himself a few moments of rest, before sliding off with a farewell kiss to the side of Graham's neck.

Graham tiredly smiled turning so he could face his employer and now lover. He reached out to the Doctor ... who had shifted over to his side of the bed.

"Night Graham," Arcane called cheerfully, as he reached out a hand for the duvet and, covering himself up, lay with his back to his assistant and settled down for sleep.

For a moment Graham was perplexed, this wasn't what it was supposed to be like. Slowly inching away from Arcane, he curled up on himself, shivering as a ball of coldness settled in the pit of his stomach. He really should have known better than to think this actually meant more for Arcane than a quick fuck to relief the tension. *He was probably even dreaming about Melissa while he fucked me, * he thought bitterly. Biting hard on his lower lip he stifled the urge to get out of bed and leave the room. This was why he'd never had sex before, to avoid this disgusting feeling of having been used. Shame burned hotly across his cooling skin. Slowly Graham fell into the blessed darkness of sleep.

Continued in Part 3

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