Well here is the story I promised Becky a while back. thanks to Rita for Beta 
reading it.
And thanks to Jen(lmr) for the title idea.
Betty

Romance, Rivals and Revenge
By Betty

Pairing: Do you really have to ask?
Rating: NC-17 slash
Disclaimer: I wrote this for fun not profit, etc.

Summary: Sheba is not happy with Apollo and Starbuck's relationship.


Apollo sat in the Officer's Club, nursing a mug of ale and wishing Sheba would 
just shut up and leave him alone. Today had been a really bad day and all he 
wanted to do now was have a drink and wait for Starbuck to return. Starbuck, he 
wanted Starbuck. All day he had thought about Starbuck.

He was Starbuck's wingman, and he should have gone out on that patrol today, 
but his father had decided that Boomer should go instead. His father didn't think 
he should be out on patrol on the third anniversary of his wife's death. His father 
was wrong. He had been looking forward to going on that patrol - even Starbuck 
knew that. Starbuck knew everything about him, well not everything. There was one 
little secret Apollo was keeping, and he wanted to tell Starbuck today, before he 
lost his nerve. But now he had to get rid of Sheba first, someone had told her what 
today was and she had taken it upon herself to cheer him up.

Wasn't working though; all her constant yammering was doing was making him 
more depressed. Especially when she kept insisting it was time he got over 
Serena's death. He was over it, but what did she know?

"I have an idea," she suddenly yelled out. "Why don't we go over to the Rising 
Star and have some dinner, then we can go for a few drinks, maybe do some 
dancing."

"I'm sorry Sheba, but I just don't feel like it," he replied, his depression showing.

"Oh come on, it'll be fun, might put you in a better mood, you can't sit here all 
night feeling sorry for yourself."

Apollo turned on her, his eyes flashing with anger. "I am not feeling sorry for 
myself, I just don't feel like going out for dinner and dancing."

"Sorry, I'm sure we can do something..."

Her words were cut off when Apollo jumped out of his seat and yelled, 
"STARBUCK! OVER HERE!"

Starbuck looked over and smiled, but the smile soon faded when he saw the look 
Sheba gave him. Apollo saw him frown, but thought it was because he noticed 
Sheba sitting in the chair that was usually reserved for him. Apollo had to think 
fast, he didn't like it when Starbuck was upset.

When Starbuck reached the table, Apollo grabbed him by the arm and said, 
"Starbuck, how would you like to go over to the Rising Star with me? I'll pay for 
the dinner, and after we eat we can go to the bar for a few drinks, or even to the 
gaming tables if you want."

Starbuck looked Apollo in the eye and knew what he was thinking. He was 
wearing his 'get me out of here' look. "If you're buying, I'm going," Starbuck 
smiled.

"I said I would buy? Gee I must be losing my mind," Apollo chuckled back.

Sheba was furious. "Wait a centon, you just said you didn't feel like going out for 
dinner..."

But neither Apollo nor Starbuck heard her as they walked across the room and out 
the door.

Sheba vowed revenge.

*****

Apollo breathed a sigh of relief as soon as the shuttle left the Galactica.

"Apollo what's the matter with you? Back in the OC you acted like you had a 
Hades hound after you," Starbuck asked his friend.

"I did, a Hades hound named Sheba."

That comment set Starbuck to laughing. "Oh come on, she can't be that bad."

"THAT BAD? The only reason she's after me is because of my father, she doesn't 
really care about me, she's a fortune hunter."

"A fortune hunter, Apollo? Are you sure?"

"That and the fact that my father is the Commander. Remember when we first met 
up with the Pegasus, she and Bojay were an item? Then when her father and his 
ship disappeared, she's suddenly chasing *me* all over the ship. Fortune hunter, 
that's all she is."

"Well I know Boxey doesn't like her," Starbuck said.

Sitting forward and turning to look at Starbuck, Apollo asked, "Did he tell you 
that?"

Sighing, Starbuck answered, "Yeah, he did. He came to the bachelor quarters the 
other day; he looked really upset so I called him over and asked him what was 
wrong. He told me that Sheba had told him that as soon as the two of you were 
sealed he would have to give up Muffy and that if he didn't she would push the 
damn daggit out an air lock. He also told me she was going to make sure he was 
transferred to the orphanage barge where he belonged. Boomer was there as well, 
Apollo, and he heard every word."

"That bitch, how dare she say those things to my son? I'll kill her."

"Well, I wouldn't go that far, Apollo, but I'm sure Boomer and Boxey won't mind 
if you helped us in our little surprise for her." Starbuck's grin was pure evil.

Apollo returned the evil grin with one of his own. "Why does that sound 
appealing to me?"

"Because you've been around me too long."

"Thank the Lords for that." Apollo didn't mean to say that out loud, but Starbuck 
didn't seem to mind, so he kept talking. "Um, I didn't pull you away from 
anything tonight, did I? You didn't have plans with Cassie did you?"

"I guess you haven't heard yet, Cassie and I are no longer seeing each other," 
Starbuck said calmly.

Apollo liked that idea, but didn't want Starbuck to know. "Oh, why - what 
happened?"

"Well, you remember the other night when we got together with Boomer and 
Giles at your place for that game of pyramid?" Apollo nodded, so Starbuck 
continued. "Well, she decided I was out with another woman, she wouldn't even 
listen to me when I told her I was with you guys, and when I told her to ask you 
she claimed you would lie to her to protect me. I told her you would never lie like 
that to her and that if she didn't trust me after a whole yahren of dating just her 
and not even looking at another woman, then she wasn't worth the effort and I left."

"Everyone knows she's the only woman you've been with, even she knows it, in 
fact there was some wagering going on for the date of your sealing."

"Oh really? How come I never heard about that? Huh, wonder who won?"

Apollo didn't want to tell Starbuck that he was the one who bet on never. Of 
course, it was wishful thinking at the time. "So do you have any body in mind to 
take her place?" Apollo asked.

"Yeah I do, somebody I should have been dating all along, somebody I've known 
since I was a kid, somebody who's always been there for me, I just have to figure 
out how to approach him."

"Oh, well, good luck. I hope you get... did you say him?" Apollo looked Starbuck 
straight in the eye at his last comment.

Keeping his gaze directly at Apollo, Starbuck calmly answered "Yes, I did, I said 
*him* and, no, the him is *not* Boomer."

"Then who?"

Starbuck didn't answer, he just smiled and sat back in his seat, arms crossed. 
Silent.

*****

Apollo continued to stare at Starbuck, who remained silent until the shuttle 
docked.

"Well, time to get off, Captain, so where are we eating? The main dining lounge, 
or do you want to try that place down on deck  nine?" Starbuck asked as he 
jumped up.

Apollo knew all about the place on deck nine; it was called the Blue Oyster Club 
and it was a gay restaurant/bar. With a smile he answered, "Let's try the place on 
deck nine."

Starbuck cocked an eyebrow and smiled wickedly as he said, "Lead the way, 
Captain."

Apollo held out his hand and Starbuck grasped it without a micron's hesitation, 
giving it a small squeeze. The two warriors then left the shuttle hand in hand. 
Apollo thought everyone on the Rising Star could hear his heart beat, but he didn't 
really care; this was a dream come true.

Starbuck couldn't believe his luck. He was so scared Apollo would bolt the 
micron the shuttle door opened, but he didn't. Now he was holding Apollo's hand 
while the two of them went out on what could be described as their *first date*. 
Starbuck felt like he was walking on air.

The elevator doors opened on the ninth deck, with neither man remembering 
getting on it. They both looked at each other with startled expressions and then 
started chuckling. Apollo pulled Starbuck close and the two threw an arm around 
the other's waist as they entered the Club.

The lighting was subdued and romantic. They could see same sex couples sitting 
quietly eating, and others on the dance floor, dancing to a slow romantic song. 
They didn't have long to wait for a table.

The first thing Apollo did was order a bottle of their best wine.

"Apollo, are sure you can afford that?" Starbuck whispered.

"Yes, my dear, I can. Because you're paying for the room," Apollo said 
seductively, as he leaned over and kissed Starbuck's lips for the first time.

At first Starbuck was surprised by the kiss, he had not been expecting it, but he 
quickly leaned in and returned it. Apollo's lips were soft and warm, the kiss gentle 
and  passionate. He turned slightly in his seat and his arms were around Apollo's 
neck. He could feel Apollo's arms around his waist.

They sat there for an eternity, gently kissing in each other's arms. The rest of the 
universe disappeared and only they existed.

*****

"Your wine, sirs."

"AAAAAAA!" Both Starbuck and Apollo jumped.

"Oh, I'm sorry I did not mean to startle you ... um, your wine, ah would you like 
me to pour for you or would you like to pour yourself?" The waiter wore a impish 
grin, he could spot first timers every time, and these two were definitely first 
timers.

Straightening in his seat Apollo replied, "That's ok, it's just that we weren't 
expecting you back so soon. I'll pour the wine myself, thank you."

Still grinning, the waiter responded, "Would you like to order your meals now, or 
do you need more time?"

Not liking the look on the waiter's face, or the tone in his voice, Apollo responded 
curtly, "Just bring two of what ever is on special."

The waiter left and Apollo turned back to Starbuck, whose left arm was still 
draped over Apollo's shoulder. "Sorry he was so rude."

"Why be sorry? It wasn't your fault," Starbuck told him, then bowed his head as 
he added, "I think he knows this is our um, first date."

"That obvious, are we?" Apollo bit his lip as he replied.

Starbuck started to lower his arm, but found his hand captured by Apollo's. 
"Don't. Leave it there. I like your arm where it is, in fact," Apollo put his arms 
around Starbuck's waist once more and pulled him close. "Why don't we continue 
what we were doing before we were so rudely interrupted?"

"But Captain, our wine," Starbuck said, in an innocent voice.

"It's in an ice bucket, it'll stay cold."

And the two were kissing once more, this time much more passionately.

*****

After Starbuck and Apollo left the Officer's Club, Sheba sat down at the table to 
finish her drink, her anger growing. How dare Apollo refuse to take up her offer 
of dinner and then ask Starbuck to go with him? Why did that man always want to 
spend his free time with that Boray? She hated Starbuck, more now than ever. She 
had to formulate a plan to get the two away from each other, but she couldn't do it 
alone. Who could help her?

Then it came to her, Cassie. Cassie would help. The blonde Med Tech was always 
complaining about Starbuck dropping everything for Apollo, even dates with her. 
Grinning wickedly, she finished her drink and left the OC.

*****

Apollo and Starbuck had once more become unaware of the people around them, 
until they heard a familiar voice.

"Well now, look who's here."

They jumped apart again, and looked up into the grinning eyes of Commander 
Adama and Colonel Tigh. Right away Starbuck noticed the two men had their 
arms around each other. 'How long has that been going on?' he thought.

"Father, what are you doing here?" Apollo sounded shocked.

"Oh Tigh and I have dinner here at least twice a secton, I wasn't aware you two 
came here as well." Adama raised an eyebrow at his son, still grinning. Apollo 
wanted to wipe that grin off his face, but this was his father.

Chuckling, Tigh said, "Adama, I have the feeling this is their first time."

Adama turned to Tigh, then back to Apollo and said in a teasing voice, "Oh is this 
true? You two are *virgins*."

The two older men laughed even harder when the two younger men both turned 
red from embarrassment. Starbuck didn't like being called a virgin. "We've been 
here before," the lieutenant lied.

Adama bent down so he was nose to nose with Starbuck and asked. "Oh really, 
when?"

Trying to save his new lover any more embarrassment, Apollo quickly answered, 
"A secton ago, we were here a secton ago, we come here every secton, same day 
same time."

Adama turned to his son, grin growing bigger and replied, "No you were not, I 
know because Tigh and I were here, this is one of our regular nights and we have 
*never* seen you two here before, try again."

"They're virgins," Tigh chuckled.

"Tigh I believe you're right, and as regulars here we owe it to them to make sure 
they have a good time, I'm sure the *virgins* won't mind if we join them."

Taking Tigh's hand, Adama then led him around the other side of the table, and 
the two slid in onto the cushioned bench, with Adama sitting next to his son.

"Well now, what are you two having tonight? Oh look, Tigh, they ordered wine 
and they haven't touched it yet, here, Apollo, let me pour you two love birds some 
wine."

Apollo and Starbuck each took the glass offered them. This was not the romantic 
evening they had in mind.

*****

It didn't take long for Sheba to find Cassie; she was right where Sheba knew she 
would be. In her quarters, alone.

"Cassie, I need your help. I need to find a way to get Apollo alone, with no way 
for Starbuck to disturb us."

Sighing heavily, Cassie replied, "Well, I do need to apologize to Starbuck, I came 
to a wrong conclusion the other day and accused him of something he didn't do. I 
know now I was wrong, and I have to find a way to make it up to him."

Always one for gossip, Sheba pressed, "Oh, what did he do? Or should I say what 
did you accuse him of?"

Cassie explained to Sheba the argument she and Starbuck had, and what Starbuck 
had said as he left. Sheba could tell Cassie was quite upset about it. "So you see I 
have to find him and try and make it up to him."

"What is it with those two, why do they always leave us sitting alone while they 
go off with each other? People are going to start to talk."

"If they're not already. Hey, wait a centon, Sheba, that could just be the way to do 
it "

"Oh, how?"

Cassie pulled Sheba to the couch and told her what she had in mind. "We could 
inform them that because they spend so much time together certain rumors have 
started. Rumors I'm sure neither one of them wants spread around."

"Oh, Cassie, how did you learn to be so wicked? Let's do it."

"Right, we'll go over to the Rising Star and surprise them, there is no way they 
will refuse to let us join them in a dining room full of people who love to gossip." 
Cassie's smile was pure evil.

*****

When the waiter returned with Apollo and Starbuck's dinners he looked at Adama 
and Tigh calmly as he said, "Commander, Colonel, we have been expecting you. 
Your dinners are prepared as ordered and I'll bring them to you right away. Would 
you like anything else?"

"Yes, more wine," Adama replied.

"You have your meal already ordered?" Apollo was perplexed.

"Oh yes, we always order what we want for the next time before we go, that way 
we don't have to wait for our meal to arrive and we can concentrate on more ... 
personal matters." Adama was still wearing that stupid grin.

"You're too old for *personal* matters," Apollo said sharply.

Adama looked at his son, shocked at the statement he had just made, while Tigh 
chuckled. "Virgins."

"*Stop calling us virgins*!" Starbuck yelled.

The room went silent as everyone turned to look at them. They both turned a 
deeper shade of red when the crowed suddenly started chanting "Virgins, virgins." 
Apollo wanted to sink under the table.

"I suggest you two love birds eat your food before it gets cold," Adama told them 
in a voice fathers normally use for children who have misbehaved.

*****

Sheba and Cassie arrived at the main dining lounge and were surprised when the 
host informed them that he had not seen Captain Apollo or Lieutenant Starbuck 
all evening.

"Are you sure? We were supposed to meet them here ten centons ago," Sheba 
replied.

"Are you calling me a liar?" The host was insulted. These women had no right 
talking to him like this, no wonder their dates didn't show up.

"Sheba, maybe they were delayed. Why don't we get something to eat and then go 
out to the casino, I bet that's where they went. You know Starbuck."

"Yes, I'm sorry. Can we have a table for two, please?" Sheba smiled sweetly.

"Right this way," the host sniffed. 'These two may be pretty, but I wouldn't date 
them either,' he thought to himself.

*****

When the four men had finished their meals and the dishes were cleared away, 
Adama ordered more wine and then announced, " Well, boys, time for some 
dancing."

"Dancing?" Apollo asked.

"Why yes, Apollo. You two don't plan on just sitting here for the rest of the night 
do you?" Adama asked in a surprised voice.

"No," his son replied. 'But it wasn't dancing I had in mind,' he added to himself.

Both older gentlemen jumped up and came around the table. "Tigh, it looks like 
it's up to us to get these two started, they seem to be a little shy."

Adama grabbed Starbuck's hand and pulled him up. "Come along, my pretty, 
since my son believes I'm to old to think about *personal* matters, why don't you 
help heal my bruised ego and allow me the pleasure of the first dance."

Apollo reached out to grab Starbuck's arm only to have Colonel Tigh take his 
hand and pull him towards the dance floor. He lost sight of his father and 
Starbuck in the crowd.

"Relax, Apollo, he's fine, your father is only having some fun."

On the other side of the dance floor Starbuck was very nervous.

"Starbuck, you must relax boy, I won't bite you, unless of course you want me to," 
Adama joked with the younger man. "So tell me, Starbuck, have you ever done 
this before, with another man?"

Starbuck knew he was going to be teased about this, but he had to answer the 
older man truthfully. "No Sir," he squeaked out.

Adama just nodded his head. "I didn't think so, but you have performed anal sex 
on a woman, correct?"

Sighing heavily Starbuck answered, "No Sir."

"I had a feeling you would say that."

Because Adama's hand was on his back, Starbuck didn't see the gesture he made 
to the waiter who had attended them. Adama had formed his first and second 
fingers into a ' V ', silently telling the waiter that Starbuck was in fact a 'virgin'. 
Starbuck also didn't know that Colonel Tigh was busy asking Apollo the same 
questions, with the same results.

When the dance ended and the men returned to their seats, they found a black 
leather briefcase lying on the seat.

*****

They retook their seats, with Adama sitting next to Starbuck, and Tigh next to 
Apollo, and the briefcase lying in between Apollo and Starbuck. Apollo eyed the 
case, and then looked at his father. "All right, what's in the briefcase?" he asked.

Adama slowly poured each of them a glass of wine and took a sip of his own 
before looking back at his son and saying, "It's a small gift that all you *virgins* 
get. Open it up and take a look."

Apollo got the feeling that his father and his lover were really enjoying the fact 
that tonight was his and Starbuck's first time together. They wouldn't let up on the 
teasing. Sighing heavily, Apollo opened the case and heard Starbuck gasp in 
surprise. The briefcase was full of sex toys. Apollo gasped, "What... what are 
these for?"

Tigh giggled like a schoolgirl as he said, "What do you think they're for?"

Adama was chuckling. "Oh, I wish I had a camera!"

Tigh was still giggling. "Look at Starbuck's face."

Starbuck was staring wide eyed and opened mouthed at the contents of the case. 
Not even Cassie had toys like these, and she had been trained in pleasure giving.

Apollo quickly shut the case and said, "You're my father, and you're not supposed 
to give me gifts like this."

Adama had tears coming out of his eyes. "Why not? My father gave me a case of 
sex toys for a wedding present when I married your mother; she really enjoyed 
them "

Apollo turned a bright shade of red, his mouth opening and closing like a fish out 
of water, then he finally said, " That was more information then I needed!!!!!!"

Adama stopped laughing, but couldn't hide the grin, and said, "Oh, that's right, 
parents don't have sex, their children just miraculously appear."

Starbuck started chuckling at that comment and Adama quickly put his arm 
around the young man's shoulder, pulling him close to him.

"You liked that did you? You thought that was funny. Apollo did you know that 
your old dad's a comedian, at least your boyfriend here thinks so."

Apollo kept a serious look on his face as he said, "Mind telling me why you gave 
us these?"

Adama leaned over Starbuck so he could look his son in the eye close up and said, 
"Neither one of you has ever been with another man, that means neither one of 
you really knows what he's doing; so before you go off and do something that 
could cause one or both of you permanent injury, Tigh and I will explain to you 
both the facts of life, after all it is a father's duty." Adama proceeded to explain to 
the two younger men a few things about male/male sex.

Starbuck fidgeted in his seat and Apollo's face grew redder. Then Apollo said 
something that Adama was not expecting. "Oh, Daddy, please stop!"

"*Daddy*? You haven't called me Daddy since you were Boxey's age!"

Apollo sunk under the table.

*****

Up in the main dining room, Sheba and Cassie had finished their meal and, as 
they were paying their bill, the host couldn't help but say, "Looks like your men 
folk were a no show. I am so sorry."

"Yeah, you look it, too," Cassie responded.

"I know where they are, in the casino," Sheba added, disgruntled.

"Well, let's go get them and teach them a lesson," Cassie grinned.

The host watched the two walk away. "No wonder those two got stood up, what a 
couple of bitches."

*****

The girls entered the gambling den and quickly looked around. Apollo and 
Starbuck were nowhere to be seen, so the two sat down to play a couple rounds of 
Pyramid, just to see if they would show up. After a couple centars, they decided to 
check the bar, maybe the men were there.

*****

Apollo never felt so embarrassed in his life. He sat quietly drinking his wine and 
wondering how his father could talk so calmly about sex. He got tongue tied when 
Boxey asked him where babies came from. But not his father, oh no. Adama was 
calm, cool and collected. He had explained everything to them, including how to 
use the toys, or their fingers, and how much of the lubricant to use. Plus, he had 
Starbuck giggling.

Apollo had never heard Starbuck giggle. It just wasn't like him to giggle. He was 
a womanizer gambler. Womanizers and gamblers didn't giggle. Or did they?

When his father was done explaining everything, he politely excused himself and 
got up. Apollo figured he had to use the turboflush. A few centons later he 
returned, grinning wickedly, and sat down. "Well, now it looks like the wine is all 
gone and it's time to give you boys the rest of your gift."

Apollo looked sharply at his father. "The rest, there's more?"

Adama's grin grew wider as he handed Apollo a key. "Here you go, son, you two 
have fun and enjoy yourselves, but be back by midday tomorrow, and don't worry 
about the bill. The room and the meal are on me."

Apollo took the key from his father, it was to one of the best rooms on the luxury 
liner.

"Don't forget your toys," Tigh added and he handed Apollo the briefcase as the 
boys got up from the table.

"Oh, and Apollo, don't do anything we wouldn't do." Adama chuckled as he 
pulled Tigh close and kissed him, on the mouth, in public.

Apollo was shocked at his father's behavior. Starbuck pulled Apollo by the arm. 
"Let's go, Apollo, before he changes his mind."

*****

The suite the two lovers entered was the most luxurious of all the suites on the 
Starliner. The two stared in awe at the large king-size bed. Its golden bedposts 
reached to the ceiling. The lights were turned down low, and they could see a 
platter of fruit, freshly picked off the trees on the agro ship, and a bottle of 
ambrosa chilling in an ice bucket. On the polished wooden floor they saw a large 
furry white bear rug lying in front of a..."*A fire place, on a space ship*?" 
Starbuck shouted in surprise.

"Well, this is a luxury liner after all, and this room is a romantic getaway. What's 
more romantic than a roaring fire?" Apollo whispered in Starbuck's ear as he 
pulled him close, throwing the briefcase onto the bed so he could use both hands, 
and gently kissed his lips once.

When the kiss ended they looked into each other's eyes and at the same time 
whispered, "I love you."

Laughing, Apollo picked Starbuck up, spun around, and the two dropped down on 
the bed and continued their kissing. Then Starbuck noticed the robes. Big fluffy 
robes. Grabbing them, he sat up and said with glee, "Hey, let's have a hot steamy 
turbowash together, get each other all squeaky clean so we can get dirty again."

Apollo kissed Starbuck hard and answered, "I love the way you think, let's go!"

"Wait, we gotta take off our boots first."

After kicking off their boots they raced to the turbowash, shedding clothes on the 
way, and reached the other room at the same time. Again they were in awe at 
what they saw. The room was bigger than Apollo's bedroom back on the 
Galactica, and in the middle of it was a huge hot tub.

Just as they were about to climb in, Starbuck said, "Wait, we forgot the robes." 
Apollo watched as Starbuck ran back to get them. On his return, Starbuck asked, 
"What?"

"You've got the most beautiful butt I ever saw."

Starbuck just smiled as he climbed inside the hot tub, and crooked his finger, 
inviting Apollo to join him.

*****

If Sheba was in a bad mood before, it was worse now. She and Cassie had seen no 
sign of Apollo or Starbuck anywhere in the bar either. She didn't know where else 
to look.

"Well there is another bar on deck nine, but I know they wouldn't go there, Cassie 
told her.

"Oh, why not?"

Cassie looked Sheba full in the face. "It's a *gay* bar."

"Oh, how gross," Sheba shivered.

"Well, to each his own, I'm betting they changed their minds and are still on the 
Galactica, probably in Apollo's quarters getting drunk together. Starbuck always 
spends this night with Apollo. You do know what this night is?"

"Yes, I know. Serena died three yahrens ago tonight. Believe me, I know and it's 
about time Apollo got over it," Sheba replied in a huff.

Cassie was shocked at Sheba's statement. "*Sheba*, that's a cruel thing to say. 
You never get over your first love, and she died so tragically only a day after they 
were married. Did it ever occur to you he might need a little more time?"

"*How much time does he need, it's been three yahrens!*"

Cassie was getting angry now. "He can take as long as he wants, and I'm glad he's 
with Starbuck." Then Cassie said something that really got Sheba in a bad mood, 
and she said it calmly and sweetly. "Wouldn't it be sweet if the two of them really 
were in bed together, making love?"

Sheba jumped up, knocking over her chair, and screamed as loud as she could, 
"WHAT THE HELL DO YOU MEAN BY THAT? HOW CAN YOU THINK THAT WOULD BE SWEET? I THINK 
IT`S DISGUSTING!"

Cassie just smiled and said, "Oh come on, Sheba, I think they would make a cute 
couple."

Sheba walked away in a huff, not looking back at Cassie. She didn't notice the 
looks she received from the other customers in the room, not even Boomer who 
came over to Cassie and asked her what that was all about. When she told Boomer 
what she had said to Sheba, he agreed: Starbuck and Apollo would make a cute 
couple.

"Buy me a drink, Boomer?"

"Sure, why not, we don't get to talk that often."

The two spent the rest of the evening together drinking, talking, and dancing until 
the closing time.

Sheba spent the rest of the evening sitting alone at the bar. When closing time 
came she was so drunk she couldn't walk two feet without falling down. Boomer 
saw her from the corner of his eye and rushed to catch her before she hit the floor 
and he and Cassie carried her out.

When they reached the launch bay they discovered they had missed the last 
shuttle back to the battlestar. They would have to spend the night. However, there 
was only one room left, a double. With two big beds. They threw Sheba on the 
first bed.

Then Boomer turned to Cassie. "You know, Cassie, I didn't want to say anything 
before, but I did see Starbuck and Apollo earlier. They were holding hands as they 
got onto the elevator."

"On their way to deck nine?"

"I think so. Does that bother you?"

"No. I think I knew it would happen one day."

"Good, so does that leave you open to somebody else?"

"Depends on who that somebody is."

"What if that somebody was me?"

Cassie put her arms around Boomer's neck and kissed him. "I thought you would 
never ask."

*****

Apollo quickly climbed into the hot tub, and pulled Starbuck onto his lap. 
Starbuck wrapped his legs around Apollo's waist, so he could sit facing his lover. 
Apollo could feel their erections rubbing against each other; it felt good, so he 
pulled Starbuck closer.

Their kisses became harder, more passionate, as they slowly rubbed against each 
other. Starbuck ran his fingers through Apollo's hair as he felt Apollo's hands run 
up and down his back. Their breathing quickened and soon turned into moans as 
they felt their organs twitch, and soon they were crying out each other's names as 
they orgasmed together.

A few centons later when they had calmed down Apollo said, "Let's get out of 
here and go lay by that fire."

Starbuck simply whispered, "Yes."

Apollo climbed out first, holding his hand out for Starbuck to grab, but as 
Starbuck started to climb out Apollo swiftly scooped him up in his arms, carried 
him out to the fire, and gently lay him on the bearskin rug.  Kissing Starbuck 
quickly he then went to the bed and retrieved the case of toys.

Starbuck sat up quickly and placed his hand on Apollo's cheek as he whispered, 
"Just get the lube out, Apollo, I've never been with another man and I want the 
first touch to be yours."

"But my father said to we had to use the toys to prepare... "

"He also said we could use fingers instead of toys, we can try the toys out next 
time, but for now lets just use ourselves, I don't want to lose my *virginity* to a 
toy."

Apollo smiled as retrieved the lube and Starbuck straddled his legs. "You really 
like this position."

"All the better to kiss you, my dear," Starbuck whispered seductively as he placed 
his hands around Apollo's neck and placed his weight on his knees.

Apollo placed his right hand around Starbuck's waist, holding the open tube of 
lube, and reached his left hand down between Starbuck's legs, lightly stroking his 
love's cock and balls. Then Starbuck felt Apollo's gentle touch on his anal 
opening, caressing him on his most intimate spot. The coolness of the lube made 
him shudder just a little as Apollo squeezed some over him. Apollo squeezed half 
the tube onto his fingers; he wanted this to be as painless as possible for Starbuck. 
Then he gently pushed one lubed finger inside Starbuck.

Starbuck threw back his head, closed his eyes and moaned in desire. Apollo's 
finger felt so good, but it felt even better when he started to slowly move it inside 
him. "More, Apollo."

"Are you sure?"

"Yes."

"Kiss me first."

Starbuck leaned forwards and gently kissed Apollo's lips, and was rewarded with 
a second finger inside him.

"Is that too much? " Apollo whispered as he wiggled his fingers and Starbuck 
squealed in delight. Apollo laughed at the squeal and wiggled his fingers again, 
receiving another one. "I think you like that, wonder what you'll do if I add 
another?"

Apollo pumped his fingers three times and then on the fourth pump, he added a 
third finger. Starbuck's moan was louder and longer this time.

"Is that too much?"

Starbuck shook his head no.

"Do you want me to stop?"

Again the blond head did a negative shake, as Starbuck repositioned his legs and 
started to lie down. Apollo moved his right hand up Starbuck's back so he could 
help him lay back. Starbuck spread his legs a little more and bent his knees. 
Forcing his eyes to open, he looked at Apollo and pleaded, "Make love to me."

Apollo squeezed the rest of the lube onto his hard cock and spread it evenly. 
Removing his fingers he then slowly replaced them with his cock, stopping as the 
head entered. He remembered his father's warning to go slowly or risk injury. 
When felt Starbuck relax, he pushed in a little farther, Starbuck once more 
moaned loudly. "Do you want me to stop? Am I hurting you?"

"No, please don't stop; it feels so good."

Apollo then pushed himself all the way in and once more stopped so Starbuck 
could get used to the feeling of him inside. When Starbuck started to move his 
hips, Apollo knew he was ready for more and slowly started to thrust. Then 
Starbuck threw his legs around Apollo's waist and his arms around his neck and 
pulled him down so they were face to face. They kissed hard and passionately, with 
lips, tongues, and teeth, and Starbuck begged Apollo, "Harder."

Starbuck's moans urged Apollo on and quickened his pace, pounding into him 
faster and harder as each moan became louder. Soon he was feeling Starbuck's 
muscles spasm and his cock twitching against his belly as Starbuck's orgasm hit 
and he moaned out Apollo's name long and loud.

Apollo forced himself to hold back until Starbuck's orgasm was done, then let his 
own seed shoot deep into his love. Starbuck moaned in pleasure as he felt 
Apollo's warm essence fill him, and he hugged Apollo to him more tightly.

When his breathing had returned to normal and his now limp cock had slipped 
out, Apollo gently asked, "Are you ok, Starbuck? I didn't hurt you did I?"

"Oh no, that was wonderful, more wonderful than I ever dreamed it would be."

"Dreamed? You dreamed of this?"

"Every night since the day I met you," Starbuck confessed.

Apollo chuckled softly. "So have I, only in my dreams you were making love to 
me."

Starbuck smiled and replied, "Oh I will, but I think you're going to have to wait. 
Sorry, but you kind of wore me out."

Apollo laughed, "That and the wine my father kept feeding us, let's move to that 
big bed and sleep it off, then we can have a big breakfast before we have to go 
home."

"I don't want to go home, I want to stay here with you forever," Starbuck pouted 
as he allowed Apollo to lead him to the bed.

*****

The next morning Sheba awoke with a pounding headache. Sitting up in the bed, 
she saw that she was still on the Rising Star, and still in her uniform. Looking 
around, she saw the other bed, and Cassie sleeping with Boomer. Both naked.

"Pricks! Having sex in the same room I'm passed out in. Oh my head! I need a 
painkiller and the turboflush, Ow!"

Cassie and Boomer rose from the bed as soon as the turboflush door closed.

"Well Boomer, that was one hell of a night you showed me," Cassie giggled.

"My pleasure, my dear, I just hope we can repeat it. I really enjoyed your 
company."

"Oh, I think that can be arranged," Cassie said as the two kissed once more.

While they were dressing, Cassie added, "I hope you're right about Starbuck and 
Apollo, and that the two did finally get together."

"Trust me, Cassie, they did."

*****

After a good breakfast and a long shower together where they did more than just 
wash each other's backs, Starbuck and Apollo dressed to go home.

"Um Apollo, we didn't even open that bottle of Ambrosa your father bought for 
us."

"Well then, I guess we'll just have to take it home with us, for tonight."

"Right," Starbuck replied, smiling his brightest smile.

When they reached the launch bay Starbuck offered to buy the tickets for the trip 
home, so Apollo sat down on the bench to wait. That's when Sheba arrived.

*****

At the ticket counter Starbuck stood directly behind Boomer and Cassie. "Well, 
well, look who didn't make it home last night," he couldn't help but tease.

The two spun around. "Starbuck!" Cassie said first. "How are you doing?"

Starbuck looked back at Apollo with a smile. "Oh I'm doing fine."

Boomer grinned, "Told ya, Cassie."

Cassie saw Sheba talking with Apollo; the Captain didn't look too pleased to see 
her. "Um Starbuck, you better look out for Sheba, she was really pissed at you 
two last night."

"Oh don't worry Cassie, I'm sure Apollo can handle Sheba, but I want to know 
about you two. Are you guys an item now?"

"Jealous?" Boomer snickered.

"Why would I be? I got whom I always wanted," Starbuck replied, motioning 
towards Apollo.

Over at the benches, Apollo was not to happy at all.

"So it's true you and that blond bimbo do screw each other," Sheba said 
sarcastically.

"If anyone is a bimbo, Sheba, it's you, not Starbuck. Now what do you want?" 
Apollo snapped back.

"Does your father know what you and Starbuck do together?"

Apollo had a feeling where this was going, so he decided to play along, and allow 
Sheba to hang herself.

"I am an adult, Sheba. I don't need my father's permission to date, or make love to 
someone."

Sheba ignored what Apollo said, especially the part about making love. "He 
doesn't know, does he? And you don't want him to know. I bet he wouldn't be too 
happy to hear about it either, would he?"

Apollo knew he should tell her the truth, but he wasn't quite ready yet; he wanted 
to see this bitch completely humiliated. "Where are you going with this?"

"Simple, Apollo. Either you marry me or not only will your father find out about 
your little secret, but the entire fleet as well. I'll totally ruin your career, you 
won't be able to get a job scrubbing floors on the prison barge when I'm done."

Apollo knew the girl meant what she said, but boy was she in for a surprise. He 
was about to inform her of it, but an idea hit him. A very wicked, evil idea that 
would leave Sheba so humiliated she wouldn't be able to show her face in public 
again. He would do it; after all she was trying to blackmail a member of Adama's 
family. No one dared do that. "You bitch, you would do that to me, wouldn't you and 
not only ruin my career but Starbuck's as well."

"I don't give a damn about Starbuck."

"How true, the only person you give a damn about is yourself. All right. I'll marry 
you, but I'm not announcing it until tomorrow. I do have to let Starbuck down 
easy, you  know."

"Fine, have one more night with your fag friend, fuck him all night long if you 
want, but then you're mine, and I want you to transfer him to another squadron as 
well. Once we're married you are to have no contact with him at all or the truth 
comes out, understand?"

Apollo just nodded, hatred burning in his eyes as Sheba walked towards the 
shuttle. She didn't see Apollo's wicked grin. "Sorry, Sheba, but Starbuck and I 
will get the last laugh."

He then went to tell Starbuck what had just happened and inform him of his plan.

*****

Shortly after finishing her mid day meal, Sheba was almost knocked to the
floor by Cassie. The blonde med tech had been running down the corridor
and the two ran into each other. "Cassie slow down, what's the hurry
anyway?"

"I have to hurry Sheba, sorry. The Commander has cut his hand and I was
sent to his quarters to patch him up. Gotta go; bye."

Sheba watched Cassie trot away, wondering why the Commander just didn't
go to the Life Center.

Cassie met up with Boomer at Commander Adama's door.

"Well Cassie, are you ready for this?" Boomer asked.

"I guess so, I still can't believe we are doing this."

Boomer chuckled as he took Cassie's arm and the two entered Adama's quarters.

*****

The first person Sheba saw in the OC was her old friend and onetime boyfriend, 
Bojay.

"Hey Sheba, how are doing?"

"Fine Bojay, in fact I'm getting married."

"Married? To who?"

"Why, Apollo of course."

"What? You're kidding! He asked you to marry him?"

"Yes he did, this morning on the Rising Star."

Bojay just shook his head. "Look, Sheba, that would be a big mistake. Apollo 
doesn't love you and you don't love him."

"Love is over rated Bojay, besides, Apollo will be the Commander of this barge 
one day, think of the power I will have when that happens."

"Is that all you think about, power? You're not the person I thought you were 
Sheba, and I hope Apollo comes to his senses and calls this marriage off."

"Oh he won't do that. Apollo is all too well aware of what will happen if he 
doesn't marry me "

Bojay looked at Sheba in shock. "Sheba, what have you done? Don't tell me you 
found out about some deep dark secret Apollo has and have decided to use it to 
force him to marry you; it won't work, Sheba, it will backfire on you, trust me."

"It will not, I have him right where I want him," Sheba snarled. "You're just 
jealous."

"Jealous? Of who, Apollo? I don't think so Sheba. Right now I just feel sorry for 
him because he's getting married to the biggest bitch in this fleet. I warned you it 
will backfire on you, Sheba, and when it does don't come crying to me. I'm not 
available anymore, Athena and I have become pretty close over the last yahren."

"How dare you talk to me like that? You know who my father is!"

"Oh yeah, your father, throw who your father is in my face. Well, little girl, daddy 
isn't here, and even if he were he wouldn't be able to help you when the hammer 
falls, and it will fall Sheba. Apollo's family is much more powerful than yours. 
Now, if you don't mind, I'll be going, the OC is just a little too crowded for me, 
and besides I'm due in the Commander's quarters."

Sheba was so angry at Bojay that she didn't see the way he smirked with his last 
statement.

*****

Cassie, Boomer, Starbuck, and Apollo laughed about the plans over dinner.

"Apollo, Sheba is going to be so pissed at you," Starbuck commented.

"So what? It will serve her right."

Then Boomer added, "Maybe you should have told her that your father knew 
already and that he was ok with it. "

"And about the toys, you should have told her that he gave you two those toys," 
Cassie added.

"She threatened to totally humiliate me in front of the entire fleet, I think what I 
have planned will be the best lesson any one could ever give her."

"She's gonna be pissed, Apollo." Starbuck snickered. "So when is this *wedding* 
going to happen?"

"In three days. The little bitch wants a wedding, she'll get it."

"Doesn't give her much time to get a gown, Apollo," Cassie told him.

"Athena said she would pick one up, I told her to get the cheapest one she could 
find."

"That's cruel, Apollo, glad I'm not your wife," Starbuck snickered.

"Would you like more wine, my love?" Apollo asked Starbuck, just to change the 
subject.

"Don't forget that bottle of ambrosa you father gave us."

"Two bottles now, lover boy."

"Would you two prefer to be alone?" Boomer asked.

*****

Tigh entered Adama's quarters, grinning with glee. "Here are those photos, 
Adama. They came out perfectly."

"Good. I've sent out the invitations to Apollo and Sheba's *wedding* to every Sire 
and Siress in the fleet, even though Apollo hasn't announced it yet. I want 
everything in place. This girl is going to learn a lesson, no one tries to blackmail 
one of my children."

"Adama, you devil, you're really enjoying this."

"Damn right I am, all this revenge stuff is making me feel 30 yahrens younger. Ila 
would have loved it."

"So that's where the boy got it from, his mother." Tigh's statement got him a swat 
across the rear, and a chase into Adama's bedchamber.

*****

Athena showed Bojay the dress she bought for Sheba. "Well, what do you think?"

"Not very expensive was it?" he laughed.

"Well, my big brother did say to get a cheap one."

"That you did. I think she will hate it and insist on another."

"She won't get the chance. I'm going to tell her tomorrow that I'll pick the gown. 
After all, it's a tradition in our family, the younger sister always picks the bride's 
gown."

"That's not true," Bojay said, mouth gaping open.

"No, but Sheba doesn't know that."

"Remind me not to get your family pissed off at me, you guys can be so cruel."

"Oh Bojay, flattery will get you everywhere."

*****

The big day had arrived and Sheba was in her glory. She had done it; she had 
trapped Apollo into marrying her and had gotten rid of that pesky Starbuck. It was 
perfect, not only had Apollo transferred Starbuck off blue squadron, but also off 
all the squadrons. He was stuck behind a desk teaching.

"Looks like I'll not only be Apollo's wife but his wingman as well, or I will be his 
wingman once I tell him to assign me to him, and he won't be able to refuse," she 
said to her reflection.

Athena was hiding around the corner; she had heard what Sheba said and thought 
'Wonder what she'll say when she finds out Apollo didn't really transfer Starbuck? 
Of course by then she'll have other worries.'

"Sheba, I'm here with your gown," she said as she walked into the room.

"It's about time you got here, the ceremony begins in only 20 centons," Sheba 
snapped. The poor girl screamed when she opened the box. "*What the hell is this 
and where did you find it, in a garbage bin?*"

"It's the latest style in wedding gowns, don't you like it?"

"It's ugly. I won't wear it. I want another gown."

"Sorry, Sheba, it's this or nothing, no time left."

"What about the one Serena wore, where is it?"

"No way, Sheba, that's been put away into storage, besides you would need 
Boxey's permission and he doesn't like you very much. In fact, he's already 
moved out of Apollo's quarters and into mine. Bojay loves the boy."

"Keep the little brat, I never liked him either. Why should I help raise some 
whore's problem?"

"You're the whore, forcing my brother to marry you. He can't stand you. I hope 
you know, he says the marriage will never be consummated, that you will be 
sleeping in separate beds."

"That's what he thinks. Now get out so I can get changed."

Athena flicked the box at Sheba, knocking the gown onto the floor, and walked 
out the door.

*****

The ceremony didn't go too well. Adama kept dropping his medallion. He gave up 
and said, "Oh, you're sealed, ok?"

Apollo kissed Sheba's hand and walked towards the door. "I'm hungry, lets eat," 
he said on his way out.

The guests attending from the other ships murmured their disapproval at the 
Commander's and then Captain's actions, but filed out of the hall anyway and into 
the dining room. There were gasps of surprise and shock when they entered and 
saw Apollo sitting at the head table, kissing Lt. Starbuck.

Adama spoke up first. "Now now, Starbuck, congratulate Apollo later."

"Whatever you say sir," Starbuck replied.

"Yeah Starbuck, later, when the bride isn't looking," Bojay chuckled.

Sheba stomped to the head table and sat down. "What's he doing here?" She 
glared at Starbuck.

"Starbuck's my best man and the best man sits beside the groom."

"You don't need to hold his hand, in fact I suggest you let go of it before I 
embarrass you in front of everyone."

"It's ok, Apollo, we can dance together later."

"Oh no you won't. Apollo will only dance with his new spouse."

"Your food is getting cold, Sheba." Starbuck smiled sweetly at her.

The meal was not what one would expect to find at a wedding. It consisted of 
everyday rations and there was no wine served. Dessert was a simple bowl of 
fruit.

"You could have at least ordered wine, Apollo," Sheba snapped.

"What did you expect with only three days' notice. Sheba? Besides, this
wedding wasn't my idea, remember?"

"Keep it up, Apollo, and you will be sorry. I'm expecting a very good 
honeymoon."

Before Apollo could respond, Adama was standing up and asking for everyone's 
attention.

"Now that the tables have been cleared, my son Apollo would like to say a few 
words to all of you."

The guests all thought Apollo would stand up and apologize for his behavior 
towards his new bride; they were not expecting what did happen.

Apollo stood, cleared his throat and said, "I would like to thank all of you for 
coming today. Sorry the meal wasn't the best, but we only had a few days to plan 
this. Now I have a gift for all of you. If you would look under your chairs you will 
find an envelope. Open it up and take a look."

The room was filled with the sound of chairs scraping against the floor, and 
envelopes opening. Then the sound of gasps and "What's this" and also "Oh no" 
and some "Oh my Lord, you're kidding".

Sheba stared out at the crowd wondering what they were looking at, then Apollo 
cleared his throat and added, "I guess I need to explain some things. You see, 
Sheba here tried to blackmail me. She found out that Starbuck and I are lovers; we 
spent our first night together on the Rising Star, in a very expensive room that my 
father ordered for us. Oh by the way, Sheba, the answer to your question was yes, my 
father does know about Starbuck and me. Anyway, what you are holding are the pictures 
that were taken four days ago, the very day Sheba tried to blackmail me. They were 
taken in my father's quarters at my and Starbuck's sealing. And if you don't believe 
me, Sheba, not only did Boomer and Cassiopeia witness the event, but Athena and 
Bojay as well. I'm afraid the ceremony we held today is not legal, and you and I are 
not married."

Sheba stood up and glared at Apollo. "You dirty rotten son of a bitch."

"I would watch what you say about Apollo's mother, Sheba. I happen to know she 
was a very special lady," Starbuck calmly said.

"I'll get you for this Apollo. You'll pay; you'll all pay."

Adama stood up and said, "Now, why don't we move these tables out of the way, 
and dance the night away? The cooks have some special treats that they will be 
bringing in so we can celebrate Apollo and Starbuck's marriage in style."

Everyone cheered as they helped move the tables. The cooks carried in all kinds 
of finger foods and cakes, and wine. The real wedding feast had arrived.

Adama took a few moments to hand Sheba her new assignment. "The new 
squadron we formed on the textile ship is in need of a new lieutenant. Make sure 
you report for duty to their leader before the night is over."

No one saw Sheba leave, no one really cared that she was gone. Starbuck was 
throwing his bouquet. Yes, he held a bouquet at his wedding.

Athena caught it. As for the garter, you'll have to guess.

End