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Jack's Immortal 2

Fait Accompli

by Admiral Q O 

 

Jack sat patiently in the conference room, keeping his mind focused on the business at hand and exchanging the occasional glance with Teal'c while their teammates rambled on. SG-1's latest mission had been excruciatingly boring for the two non-scientists, and, consequently, so was the debriefing with Carter and Daniel doing the bulk of the talking. The world they'd visited had been uninhabited by any intelligent life, so Jack and Teal'c had basically stared at each other while Carter had conducted her mineralogical survey and Daniel had taken video of the ruins near the gate and made his initial notes.

Eventually, as expected, Daniel began to repeat himself, so Jack let out a tiny cough while raising his eyebrows slightly, looking for General Hammond to say something. The older man had caught Daniel's repetition as well, and within mere moments of Jack's eye contact, Hammond was dismissing them with orders to provide any additional information in their reports.

"Well, it's been fun, kids," Jack said as Hammond exited the room. "I'm calling it a week," he announced and moved into the hallway with lightening speed before he could be drawn into a conversation. He felt a tiny twinge of guilt for leaving Teal'c on his own since Daniel was most likely going to continue to prattle, but he'd make it up to him next week. It was Friday afternoon and that meant it was time to get the hell out of Dodge.

Jack considered weekends to be one of man's greatest inventions. The whole concept of having two consecutive days where he didn't have to report to the base, didn't have to worry about being shot at, or in any other way attacked was truly welcome in his book. Most importantly, he could use the time to catch up on watching the TV he'd missed while SG-1 had been off world. He paused his journey briefly to allow for the elevator to arrive then came face to face with Doctor Fraiser as the doors opened.

"Colonel O'Neill, I was just coming to look for you. Might I have a word with you in private?" As Chief Medical Officer, Janet could always insist that Jack come along, but as was her manner, she courteously asked him to join her, certain that he would agree.

"Sure, Doc," Jack casually replied and joined her for the short trip up to her office. His post-mission examination had been the first since his night with Methos, so he was a little apprehensive about her request, but in typical fashion, he maintained a nonchalant front. Jack had gone uncovered with Methos; he'd trusted him when he'd told him he was clean. So help him, if Methos had passed something on to him, he was going to track him down and punch him out.

"Please, have a seat, Colonel," Janet directed and pulled out his file. "I've checked your MRI, and double-checked it to be sure..."

"What is it?"

"Your brain activity has increased from previous scans. It's only a fraction of a percentage, but with all the alien technology around here, I'm wondering if perhaps you touched something lately?" she guessed. "Something you haven't exposed yourself to before?"

"I can't think of any new doohickeys off hand," Jack replied with a contemplative expression on his face. "Is this something I need to worry about? I feel fine," he shrugged.

"Not that I can see," she sighed. "Tell me about this latest mission," she prompted and sat back in her chair as Jack began to recount the two tedious days he'd spent off world.

Once Jack finished giving her the highlights, Janet retraced his recent activities with him, questioning him extensively about the mission and what devices he may have seen on base since his last MRI. After she'd exhausted all the possibilities she could imagine, she remained clueless as to what had caused his enhanced readings.

"Well, there's nothing more I can think of," she bit her lip. "I'll note your file, and keep a close watch on you to monitor for any changes. Let me know immediately if you feel in anyway odd."

"Aside from my normal oddness?"

"Aside from your usual charm," she smirked, understanding his reference to his humor.

"Right," Jack nodded. "Sounds good, Doc."

"You're sure there's nothing more...something trivial that we haven't covered?"

"I got nothing," Jack shrugged. Of course, he hadn't told her about his sexual interlude with Methos, nor about the 'Aftershock' he'd felt every time Methos had made him come. Jack knew that Janet played both sides of the field, too, so she certainly wouldn't report him, but why tell her if it wasn't absolutely necessary? Moreover, he'd promised Methos that he wouldn't mention them to anyone.

"Okay...that'll be all then, Colonel," she smiled. "Enjoy your weekend."

"Thanks. You, too," Jack smiled in return and made a beeline for the locker room to change his clothes then he shuffled out to his truck. He dropped by the store just long enough to pick up a fresh twelve-pack of beer and within an hour of leaving the base, he was settled into his favorite chair, beer in hand, starting his tape of The Simpsons.

As Jack fast-forwarded through the first commercial break, he found his mind once again drifting to his sexy Welch lover just as it had every day since their time together two weeks prior. Damn, but he missed Methos. Jack hadn't had it this bad for anyone, male or female, since his ex-wife. Sex with Methos had been a unique and unrivaled experience, but his feelings for him ran deeper than mere lust. He plain missed his presence and every time his mind was allowed a moment, it drifted back to their night together.

Jack wasn't overly concerned about his preoccupation, though. He was able to focus on his work when required, so he was certain that he'd reach an emotional balance eventually, but it was going to take some time to adjust to the whole idea of being in a relationship again given it had been so long since his last one. Officially, he and Methos hadn't entered into one yet, but Jack sensed that things were heading in that direction and a large part of him could hardly wait.

Jack's mind then wandered to his conversation with Janet. If the Aftershocks were the cause of his enhanced readings, maybe his lover had been affected as well. Methos certainly deserved to be told of the possibility, so Jack decided to contact him. Besides, this gave him the perfect excuse to open a dialogue without seeming anxious. The truth be known, he'd been itching to touch base with Methos for at least a week. Now was his chance, so he turned off the TV, leaving Homer for later viewing; grabbed a fresh beer; and situated himself behind his computer.

As the PC powered up, Jack retrieved the card he'd stumbled across the weekend prior when he'd taken Teal'c to shop for a birthday card for Hammond. He'd been instantly drawn to the dog's picture on front – Jack loved dogs – and when he found it was blank inside, he'd decided it would be perfect for sending to Methos once the opportunity arose. He must have drafted what he was going to write in it at least a dozen times in his mind, but he had yet to put pen to paper. When the time came to actually fill in the card, he knew he'd manage to do it, though, so he went about his other preparations as the PC finally indicated it was ready for him.

First, he pulled up Joe Dawson's address, which getting from Hammond had been child's play. One thing that his C.O. enjoyed was the chance to kibitz about old friends, so Jack had gone to see him early one morning and had struck up a conversation. He'd just need to be sure that he actually sent Joe a Christmas card this year since that had been his official reason for requesting it.

Jack had chosen this approach because he suspected that attempting to find Methos' address using his pseudonym, Adam Pierson, would be an utter waste of time unless he started calling in favors, which he was loathe to do until he'd exhausted all other options. Given Joe was close enough to Methos to know his real name, Jack knew that he could be trusted and felt certain that he would be able to get the card to Methos at some point. It might take a little longer than sending it directly, but Jack could wait. Besides, it was safer for both of them to use a go-between.

Once Jack had the envelope addressed, he proceeded to set up his own go-between of sorts. There was a secure site that he had used off and on in recent years to communicate via email and chat room, both for personal and professional reasons, which was an ideal place to set up an account for his lover to use to contact him. Membership was by invitation only with each member allowed only one 'guest' account at any given time. Real names were never used, chats were never monitored, nothing was ever backed up at the server, and all discarded messages, etc. were faithfully destroyed on a daily basis.

"What name do I give you, Gorgeous?" Jack pondered out loud. He stared at the 'new account' screen for a long moment then the perfect set of user names came to him. He finished setting up Methos' account then he went into his own profile and updated his user name accordingly. With that done, he turned his attention back to the card while he waited for the confirmation of his changes to arrive in his special inbox.

~ ~ ~

"Good morning, Joe," Methos yawned as he strolled into Joe's club. "Coffee ready?"

"Sure," Joe laughed and poured his friend a large mug as he sat down at the bar. "You're in kind of early," he prodded.

"Damn insomnia again," Methos grumbled and breathed in the aroma of the coffee before taking a sip.

Methos' sleep pattern had been totally thrown out of kilter since his night with Jack. During the remainder of his vacation with Joe, it hadn't been too bad; he'd managed about four hours a night, and that was plenty in the short-term. Now, though, it had been nearly three weeks, and he was still getting no more than that – sometimes less. Even for an immortal, lack of sleep was detrimental if it continued for a long enough period of time.

"Something came in the mail yesterday that'll perk you up," Joe teased and stepped away to his office.

"What? We won the Irish lottery?" Methos joked. He played the game periodically out of habit and had used Joe's name and address for it in recent years. The lottery, or sweepstakes as it had originally been called, was the only thing he used this address for, though. Nothing else should be coming to him care of Joe.

"Let's see...it's addressed to 'Dr. Adam Pierson', so it can't be the lottery, unless you used that name and title this time and didn't tell me..." Joe stalled with a snide grin. "There's no return address, but the postmark is Colorado Springs, so I suspect an Irishman we recently met may have sent it," he winked and handed over the envelope.

Methos smiled, reasoning, as Joe had, that only Jack could have possibly sent it then he opened it in no time flat and removed the card within. On the front was a picture of a yellow Labrador smiling and panting. Instantly, Methos was reminded of the expression on Jack's face after sex and he began to chuckle.

"What's so funny?" Joe prodded.

"Inside joke," Methos responded as he opened the card then he read the message Jack had written inside and positively beamed.

"It's from Jack?"

"Yes."

"So....are you gonna tell me what he said or do I have to beat it out of you?" Joe playfully threatened, picking up his cane.

"He's got friends who run a 'secure site for private conversations'," Methos stated. "He sent me his email address and the details for the one that he's set up for me there. He wants to talk."

"Congratulations," Joe smiled. Maybe now Methos would finally stop pining for his lover-boy colonel and be able to help him out at the club once in a while rather than coming in and moping every day.

"Thanks," Methos grinned and downed his coffee as he sprang to his feet. "Later, Joe," he called back and headed for home.

Immediately on arrival, Methos powered up his laptop and went through his usual security measures to avoid his location from being detected. If anyone got nosey, they'd see him as being in Siberia, which was a far cry from his loft in New York. With that done, he logged onto the site Jack had provided and checked for his lover's user name. He was online, so Methos sent him an invitation for a chat.

Meanwhile, Jack stood in his bathroom, brushing his teeth and heard the chime sound from his PC, indicating he had an incoming message. It had to be Methos; no one else knew to contact him at this address. It was about damn time. He'd been getting up early and logging in to monitor the site every morning since he'd sent Methos the card. Damn mail service had been its typical slow self, though. Jack could have sent it overnight, but that would have been too easy for someone to trace, plus he didn't want to appear desperate. He rinsed his mouth and wiped his face with the hand towel as he confirmed who was contacting him and replied by opening a dialogue window.

Scarecrow: Good morning, Gorgeous.

Oz: Good morning. I love the picture. Very you.

Scarecrow: I thought you'd like it.

Oz: Why Scarecrow?

Scarecrow: I like to play dumb.

Oz: Bright boy.

Methos was impressed with such wisdom coming from one so young. Playing dumb was an excellent means by which to catch people off guard. He'd utilized it himself countless times throughout the centuries.

Scarecrow: Thanks.

Oz: Why Oz?

Scarecrow: Goes with the theme.

That and Jack knew that Methos was not what he appeared to be. But who the hell was? Bottom line, Jack was crazy for the guy. When Methos was ready to tell him more, he would. Until then, Jack would go along for the ride and enjoy himself.

Oz: How are things?

Scarecrow: Good, you?

Oz: Not bad.

Methos' response set off Jack's internal alarm. He knew all too well that 'not bad' didn't necessarily mean good.

Scarecrow: What's wrong?

Oz: Little trouble sleeping...it'll pass.

Damn. Jack was definitely concerned now. The last thing he'd wanted to do was cause Methos any harm. What if he was a carrier of some bizarre alien something or other that he'd unwittingly brought back through the Stargate and had passed it on to his lover? Talk about a relationship starting out on the wrong foot.

Scarecrow: Since when?

Oz: Vacation...why, what's wrong?

Scarecrow: Nothing...really. I had a physical...MRI showed a slight increase in my brain activity. Not a problem, but we don't know why.

Oz: The Aftershocks.

Scarecrow: Only thing I can think of. You might want to get checked.

It was a charming gesture on Jack's part, however Methos knew it wasn't necessary. Being an immortal, he didn't need to concern himself with disease, and one of the last things he needed was to have a doctor poking at him. It raised too many questions.

Oz: Why?

Scarecrow: You're having trouble sleeping...could be related.

Oz: No. I know the reason for that.

Scarecrow: What?

Oz: I miss you. I feel like I left part of myself behind. I'll get used to it after a while.

And he would, too. Methos had fallen in love hundreds of times before and his insomnia was always one of the early symptoms. He simply couldn't stop thinking of his lover long enough to get proper rest. It was normal for him, although with Jack, the situation was continuing longer than it had with anyone ever before.

Scarecrow: I miss you, too.

Oz: Do you still want to take me fishing?

Scarecrow: Absolutely.

Oz: I'm here when you can get the time off.

Scarecrow: Good.

Oz: In the meantime, we can chat.

Scarecrow: I'd like that. Gotta go in early today though...log on tomorrow, same time?

Oz: I'll be here.

Scarecrow: See ya then.

Methos then watched Jack log off before he did the same. He'd nearly typed in 'I love you' rather than 'I miss you', but those were words best spoken for the first time in person, not in a chat room. He would have to wait, but his Jack was smart. He'd probably already figured it out. Only one night together and he was helplessly in love with him. Methos had never fallen so quickly.

In the meantime, Jack turned off his PC and finished preparing for work with a beaming smile and a whistle coming from his lips. Methos loved him and Jack loved him in return. They hadn't said it, but he could read between the lines, and that's when his inner voice started screaming bloody murder.

What if their feelings were a side effect of the Aftershocks? They could be getting into a relationship based on nothing more than some bizarre chemical reaction, and the consequences could be disastrous for both of them. Jack doubted they were the cause, but there was no way to know for certain. He heeded his inner voice and resolved to chat with Methos every morning before going to work, if at all possible, so he could monitor him for any problems. Jack was the apparent source of the Aftershocks since they only occurred after his orgasm, not Methos' so that made any fallout from them his responsibility. He was going to be cautious for both their sakes.

~ ~ ~

The ringing of the doorbell cut through the silence of Jack's house like a knife, jarring him awake. Evidently, he'd had one too many beers the night before because he found himself lying at an awkward angle on the sofa with a kink in his neck and a pounding headache that intensified all the more as the doorbell rang yet again.

"Just a minute," Jack called out and rubbed his face as he made for the front door. Upon opening it, he was greeted by a charming young lady holding a vase filled with two-dozen red and white long-stemmed roses.

"You Jack O'Neill?" she asked, popping her gum.

"Yeah," Jack replied, a bit dumbfounded.

"These are for you," she chirped and handed them over. "Must be some lucky lady out there," she flirted.

"Thanks," Jack automatically replied and looked at the arrangement curiously until he heard the young woman clear her throat.

"You have to sign for them," she prompted and popped her gum again.

"Right," Jack nodded and placed the vase down on his dining table then he returned and signed the paper on her clipboard and watched her bounce along to the delivery van before closing the door. "O-kay...so who's sending me flowers?" he wondered out loud as he went back to the table then he took the card and opened it. It had been typed by the local florist and read: 'Check your email – Oz.'

Jack then examined the card more closely while moving toward his computer and noticed that the 'order's origin' had been Bangkok, Thailand. He'd just chatted with Methos the previous morning, and he hadn't said a word about leaving town, let alone going to Bangkok of all places. With his curiosity peaked, he wasted no time in logging on to check his email. He took note that Methos was online as well, but went to his inbox first and found a new message from him with the subject: 'Read this before we chat.'

As he opened the email, Jack became a little nervous then he read the text and smiled as butterflies began to flutter in his stomach...

One month ago this night you stole my breath away from across the room. Since then not a day goes by that I do not envision your precious face. The red and white roses symbolize the unity I feel with you. I'm hoping that you feel the same.

Jack had always been lousy at expressing his emotions and still was. Fortunately, Methos seemed to be talented enough for both of them in that department and Jack felt a sudden and welcome sense of relief. Methos' words mirrored his own feelings almost verbatim. It was crazy, but Jack could swear that he actually felt the chemistry between them even though they were thousands of miles apart. He'd definitely fallen head over heels this time and after days of guarded consideration, he was finally convinced that the Aftershocks had absolutely nothing to do with it.

Meanwhile, Methos sat in his loft, nursing a cup of tea and staring at his computer screen. He'd paid extra to insure that the flowers were delivered to Jack within a specific half-hour time window and Jack's coming online appeared to confirm that he'd gotten his money's worth. If his young lover followed instructions, he'd check his email first, so Methos held off opening a chat room. A few moments later, he saw a message arriving in his inbox and sat down his tea. It was a response from Jack. Methos took a deep breath then he opened it and read the one-word reply: Ditto. Instantly, he grinned from ear to ear and opened the window for their morning chat.

Oz: Good morning, Handsome.

Scarecrow: Good morning, Gorgeous. What the hell are you doing in Bangkok?

Oz: I'm not in Bangkok...just placed the order there.

Scarecrow: I knew that.

Methos could practically see Jack pouting his response and let out a tiny laugh.

Scarecrow: Thanks. The roses are beautiful.

Oz: You're welcome. How are you doing?

Scarecrow: Hungover...I'll live.

Oz: Party last night?

Scarecrow: No...just too many beers.

Oz: What happened?

Scarecrow: Bad day at work.

Oz: You want to talk about it?

Scarecrow: Thanks, but I can't.

Oz: Okay...anytime you need an ear...

Scarecrow: I know. So, how are you? Still sleeping okay?

Oz: Like a baby. I told you the insomnia would pass.

Methos' sleeping pattern had returned to normal starting with the first night after he and Jack had commenced their daily chats.

Scarecrow: Good.

Oz: How about you? Any strange readings or anything yesterday?

Jack had been scheduled for a follow-up MRI the day before, and Methos was more than just a little curious as to what the results had been.

Scarecrow: No. My brain activity is still elevated compared to before, but it's the same as it was last time. Doc says I should be fine...not to worry unless I start having headaches or dizziness. More than usual that is.

Oz: lol...good.

Scarecrow: You're up kinda early for a Saturday.

Oz: Yes...I didn't want to miss you. I'm taking off for Paris in a few hours.

Scarecrow: Business?

Oz: Kind of...and to visit an old friend. I'll be able to keep up our chats, just not tomorrow.

Scarecrow: Okay. How long before you leave for the airport?

Oz: My ride is scheduled to pick me up within the hour.

Scarecrow: I should let you get ready.

Oz: I am already. I'm all yours until the driver rings the bell.

Scarecrow: Sweet.

Jack then proceeded to tell Methos about his plans for the weekend, how he was going to play poker with his buddy, Andy, who just happened to be the local sheriff. Methos gave him a bit of advice, having had experience playing with some of the best poker players in the world then he told Jack more about his plans for Paris. He was going to be staying on a barge with his friend, Duncan, and helping him with some antiquities. Personally, Jack thought the trip sounded boring overall, but at least the part about staying on a barge seemed interesting.

Oz: The doorbell. Until Monday, my love.

Scarecrow: You, too.

Once Methos was logged off, Jack did likewise and went to start a pot of coffee. While it brewed, he took in the aroma of the roses and moved them to his bedroom, so that he could see them first thing each morning for as long as they would last.

~ ~ ~

Duncan emerged from the shower, wearing nothing more than a towel, and instantly shivered upon entering the main area of the barge. Methos had left the door open – AGAIN!

"Damn it! Did you grow up in a barn?" Duncan grumbled as he moved to the door.

"No...a tent, I believe," Methos answered, obviously distracted, with his gaze fixated on the screen of his laptop.

"What're ya doin' on that thing again? You've been on it every day since you arrived," Duncan complained and removed the towel and dried the last of the water clinging to his body.

"It's personal."

"That's what you said yesterday...and the day before," Duncan harrumphed and dropped the towel, shaking his head.

Duncan paused as he reached for his clothes, sensing that something was off then, suddenly, it hit him. Methos wasn't making any comment about his nakedness, or even glancing in his direction for a gratuitous ogle. The two weren't lovers, they never had been, but Methos was forever taunting him about his physical appearance in some manner, usually with a reference to his 'barely adequate manhood'. Whatever had Methos' attention, it was causing him to forgo his habit of harassing Duncan and that waved a red warning flag directly in front of the younger man's eyes. Duncan considered his friend warily as he was typing away on the laptop then he casually strolled to his side, still naked.

"I'm ready for lunch. Let's go; I'm starving," Duncan announced, wondering if Methos would notice his condition. As expected, he was totally oblivious.

"Don't be in such a hurry," Methos said, not taking his eyes off the screen then he let out a tiny laugh and typed once again. "If you die of starvation, you'll come back and by then I should be done," he jabbed.

Duncan pursed his lips and casually flopped down next to Methos nearly landing on his lap and peeked at the screen before he could turn it away.

"Who's Scarecrow?" Duncan asked curiously.

"A friend."

"Just a friend?" Duncan pressed, but Methos ignored him so he leaned forward, blocking the screen while scanning the chat displayed on it. "You're Oz?"

"Yes," Methos confirmed and shoved Duncan away. "Now be quiet," he scolded him and continued his chat, allowing Duncan to watch and hoping that would pacify him. As usual, though, his appeasement was doomed to fail.

Scarecrow: I'll be gone at least a couple of days...not sure when I'll be able to chat again.

Oz: I'll miss you.

Scarecrow: Yeah, you, too.

"Oh, Methos," Duncan cried out in an overly dramatic fashion. "I'll miss you so much," he teased, sending mocking kisses into the air.

"Do you mind?" Methos protested, glaring at him.

"Not at all, Casanova," Duncan chuckled and moved back to get his clothes, leaving Methos to finish his chat in peace.

By the time Duncan was dressed, Methos had his laptop powered down and was leaning back on the sofa with his eyes closed, and Duncan could no longer remain silent. Methos' love life was none of his business, he knew that, but since when had that kept him from poking his nose in where it didn't belong?

"What's Scarecrow's real name?" he asked.

"Jack."

"That's a funny name for a woman."

"He's definitely not a woman," Methos shook his head as he sat upright. "Wrong equipment," he smirked.

"Oh...returning to your old ways, eh?" Duncan teased. "I thought you'd stop pounding around with the guys."

"He's not like any other guy," Methos responded with a gleam in his eyes. "Jack's special. That's why we're going shopping."

"You're buying him a sword?" Duncan asked in disbelief. When Methos had offered to accompany him on his 'annual antiquities acquisition trek', he'd mentioned buying a sword to take back to the States, but Duncan had thought he was buying it for his own use. "Is he one of us?"

"No...not even one in waiting," Methos stated. Immortals could sense another of their kind, even if the person hadn't yet died for the initial time, and no such vibe came from Jack. He was mortal, pure and simple. From the grimace forming on Duncan's face, Methos could already hear the lecture before it began. "I know what I'm doing, MacLeod," he firmly declared, hoping to dissuade his friend from pressing forward. It didn't work.

"Are you sure? Giving him a sword? That's a hell of a commitment coming from you."

"It would be a bigger one if he were one of us. Imagine, hundreds of years waking up to the same face," Methos shuddered then he entertained the thought and smiled. "Of course, with Jack that's a rather welcome idea."

"He'll die one day."

"We all do."

"You'll be hurt..."

"And I'll mourn," Methos snapped, cutting him off. "Don't you think I've considered that? I've buried more than my share of lovers...certainly more than you have. Jack's worth the risk...and the inevitable pain. I love him. To not be a part of his life is simply unacceptable."

Duncan stood in a stunned silence, staring at Methos as a lone tear ran down the older man's right cheek. He'd only seen him cry one other time – after the death of his love, Alexa. She'd been diagnosed with a terminal illness and given less than a year to live before Methos had even met her, but he'd fallen in love with her within a matter of days, and had whisked her away to travel the world before she'd succumbed to her fate. They'd had only a short time together then she'd died in Geneva with Methos at her side. He'd tried desperately to save her, but in the end, she'd gone and he'd buried her in Paris to have her near him.

Over the past year, Methos had been spending more of his time in New York pestering their mutual friend, Joe, than he had in Paris and Duncan had taken it as a positive sign that Methos had moved on. Still, it had been less than a decade since Alexa's death, not long at all from an immortal's perspective, and for him to be getting seriously involved with someone new gave Duncan an uneasy feeling.

"Does he know about Alexa?" Duncan asked, coming to sit at Methos' side.

"No. It's bad form to discuss one's former lovers with a new one."

"Listen, Methos, I know you miss her and that it's been difficult for you..."

"I'm not replacing her with Jack," Methos interrupted. He knew where Duncan was headed since he'd already considered that possibility himself.

"You're not?" Duncan challenged him.

"No, I'm not, damn it! That first day here...when I didn't want you to meet me at the airport...I took that time to visit her grave...to make my peace...to let her go. What Alexa and I had was special and I'll never forget her, but with Jack the feelings are even deeper. It's like we're connected somehow...that we always have been. Almost as if we're part of each other...."

"Fait accompli?" Duncan whispered.

"Yes," Methos whispered back. "I learned centuries ago to never argue with Fate. She's a bitch who hates to lose, so she always wins," he laughed.

"Well, in that case, we'd best get going. You don't want to look at swords on an empty stomach," Duncan winked.

"Right," Methos nodded.

"So, tell me about this beau of yours," Duncan prompted as they put on their coats.

"His name is Jack O'Neill...Colonel in the U.S. Air Force...very athletic, charming, wicked sense of humor, definite air of authority...."

"Sounds like your type alright...someone who can look you in the eye and tell you when you're full of shit."

"Yes. It's rather refreshing in a way," Methos smirked.

"So, when do I get to meet him?"

"No idea...his work schedule is highly irregular."

"Has Joe met him?"

"Yes."

"Good, then I'll phone him later."

"What for?" Methos asked with a perplexed expression then he caught on to what Duncan had in mind. "I'm hardly a child, MacLeod. I don't need your blessing before I make my vow to him," he huffed.

"Then why're you here visiting and taking me along on this little shopping excursion of yours? Tell me that?" Duncan demanded.

Methos stared at Duncan, wondering himself just why he'd wanted Duncan to join him on such a personal errand and realized that the younger man made a valid point. Joe and Duncan were the closest Methos had to family. His subconscious had tricked him yet again.

"Fine, Doctor Freud," Methos sighed sarcastically. "What else do you want to know about him?"

"Just the basics...you know...age, height, dick size," Duncan joked and was rewarded with a swift punch to his upper arm. "OW! Damn it, that hurt!"

"Be glad I didn't aim for your nose," Methos admonished him and nudged him through the door as he proceeded to tell him all about Jack with one exception – the Aftershocks. Until Jack and Methos could figure out what they were, they'd agreed that they wouldn't mention them to anyone.

~ ~ ~

Jack sat in the infirmary while this time the real Doctor Fraiser administered his post-mission examination and cringed inside. SG-1 had been caught up in a virtual reality where he'd relived the same failed mission numerous times with Teal'c at his side to share the experience. 'The Keeper' as he'd called himself had hooked SG-1 up to machines where he'd tapped their memories and imaginations to provide 'entertainment' for the fake world's other 'residents'.

He hadn't been able to access Teal'c's and Carter's minds, so their most precious secrets had been safe, but Jack and Daniel had been vulnerable to the bastard. Thankfully, he hadn't gone poking around in Jack's memories of his bedroom, but knowing that he could have and most likely would have eventually, had been enough to leave Jack a bit rattled.

"Okay, Colonel. You're free to go," Janet prompted with her charming smile.

"No problems?" Jack asked. She'd kept him longer than the others so she could run a few extra tests, just to be safe.

"None at all. Everything is as it was last time. You're in perfect health."

"Good," Jack nodded and rose to his feet then both officers came to attention as Hammond entered the room.

"At ease, people," Hammond ordered. "Colonel, I've already sent the rest of SG-1 home. You all have the weekend and next week off."

"That won't be necessary, sir," Jack replied but silenced immediately when Hammond gave him the 'don't argue with me' glare.

"That's an order, Colonel. You've all been through a lot lately and I need my flagship team in top form."

"Yes, sir," Jack responded and shuffled off to the locker room with a tiny pout. He maintained the faηade of being frustrated until he was clear of the base then he let out a shout of joy. It was time to go fishing with Methos! He just hoped he could get through to him with the news without having to wait for their morning chat.

~ ~ ~

Methos drove along, utterly enchanted with the tranquility that surrounded him. Jack had told him that his cabin was isolated, but he hadn't realized just how set apart from the rest of the world it truly was. It was literally miles from the nearest neighbor and with the crisp, fresh air all around and the delightful aromas emanating from the trees and other flora; Methos felt as though he could get lost here for a very long time.

Unfortunately, they were only going to have four days together. Jack had been given an entire week off, but with travel time factored in that was all they were left. Methos had many things he wanted to tell his young lover and a most important question to ask of him. With the time constraints, he'd have to get down to business sooner rather than later so that they could spend the rest of their time simply enjoying one another's company.

As he pulled onto the short road leading up to the cabin, he took in the immediate scenery, noting the dock and the small rowboat sitting at the base of the grass-covered incline. Methos then saw Jack coming out of the cabin as he parked his truck behind Jack's and gave a friendly smile and wave in his direction, receiving a similar greeting in return.

"Hi, Gorgeous," Jack playfully addressed him as he opened the driver's door for him.

"Hello," Methos responded with a beaming smile while moving to get out. Jack was dressed in Air Force blue swim trunks and nothing more – a veritable feast for the eyes.

As Methos' feet touched the ground, Jack took hold of his arm and whisked him out, closing the door as he pinned his lover to the side of the truck. Methos then welcomingly submitted as Jack pressed in for a deep, passionate kiss. Once he finally got his lips back, Methos took a deep breath and blinked a few times while his head stopped spinning.

"Wow, that's some welcome you've got there."

"I missed you," Jack growled and lunged for Methos' neck, hitting what he knew was a very sensitive spot.

"I missed you, too," Methos sighed then he pulled one of his tried and true moves and had their positions reversed with Jack pinned before he knew what had hit him.

"Impressive move for a historian," Jack teased.

"I wasn't always a historian."

"I figured that...tell me something I don't know."

"After dinner," Methos whispered, his voice suddenly serious, and gave Jack a warm, lingering kiss before moving away. "Help me unload," he directed.

"In a minute," Jack said, taking hold of Methos' arm once more to still him. "Tell me now?" he cooed, giving his best puppy-dog eyes.

"After dinner," Methos repeated and started to laugh as Jack stuck out his lower lip to pout. "Come on, there's stuff in the cooler that needs to be put in the refrigerator."

Jack grudgingly let loose his hold and waited while Methos grabbed his carry on bag and a large duffle then he took the cooler and allowed his guest to head into the house first so he could get a good look at his gorgeous ass. He'd been dreaming about Methos for the past three nights and could hardly wait to get his hands on him, but first things first. They needed to tend to the perishables before Jack could tend to his lover.

"Did you have any trouble finding the place?" Jack asked as they crossed the threshold.

"No. Your directions were perfect," Methos replied and scanned the small living room. The decorations were simple and very masculine with the several photos lining the mantle being the only area that could possibly be considered cluttered. All in all, it was very charming.

There was a sofa and one overstuffed chair with a coffee table and a delightful fireplace along the outer wall with a small entertainment center just beyond it. If the doors hadn't been open, Methos would have mistaken it for an armoire. He noted the videotape labeled 'The Simpson's' sitting on top of the VCR and laughed inside. Jack had mentioned bringing some videos for them to watch, but he'd wondered if he truly would. It seemed that his lover actually did have more in mind for their time together besides just fishing and sex, and Methos wasn't going to complain one bit. The thought of snuggling up with Jack to watch a video, or anything else, was simply wonderful.

"I brought the entire first season along...that's just the first tape," Jack stated, noticing where Methos' eyes had landed.

"Sounds good. Where do I put my things?"

"Bedroom...through there," Jack said with a tiny wave and headed into the kitchen rather than escorting him. If he did that, the items in the cooler would definitely perish before they got around to taking care of them. He set the chest down on the floor next to the refrigerator and opened it and smiled. Inside were two large steaks, a pound of bacon, a few packages of cheese and a bottle of champagne. The items would all wonderfully complement what Jack already had on hand. Excellent.

"Be right back," Methos said, popping his head in the doorway then he darted out to the truck and returned within moments carrying a grocery bag.

"Where was that hidden?"

"In plain view on the passenger seat," Methos answered as he started emptying the contents onto the counter.

"Ah...guess I must have been distracted by something," Jack teased and pinched Methos' ass. He simply couldn't wait any longer to touch it.

"Obviously," Methos teased in return and pushed Jack away. "The produce needs to be placed in the crisper," he said, shoving the bag of lettuce into Jack's hands.

"Yes, sir," Jack playfully replied and helped to clear the items from the counter.

As Methos handed over the last of the vegetables, he saw a tiny red mark on the side of Jack's torso and gently lowered the waistband of his trunks to inspect it.

"Bug bite?"

"Huh?"

"Strange looking one at that."

Jack glanced at the spot Methos was examining and ordered himself to remain calm. It was a mark leftover from when he'd been hooked him up to one of The Keeper's damn machines. In addition to tapping the person's mind, the devices had been designed for full life-support functions including nourishment, hydration, and waste removal. As a result, all of SG-1 had returned with tiny punctures at various parts of their bodies. Most had since disappeared, but this one was still barely visible. Leave it to his very observant lover to notice.

"Oh...that...it's nothing. I was hooked up to some doohickey for work," Jack explained.

Methos instantly thought Jack's explanation was a bit odd, and glanced curiously at his eyes. He was speaking the truth; not telling him everything, obviously, but he wasn't lying to him. When they'd discussed possibly seeing each other again, Jack had warned him that his work was very top secret, and Methos had believed him, but now, he was beginning to have a true sense of appreciation for just how sensitive his lover's job truly was.

"That's different," Methos commented and moved to the sink and washed his hands, resisting the urge to press for an elaboration.

Jack smiled in response, grateful that Methos hadn't asked the questions that he'd seen hovering behind his eyes. Maybe one day the Stargate Program would be public knowledge and then Jack would take Methos on a personal, solo tour of the facility. Until then, he'd settle for being as truthful as possible with his lover and share what little he could as opportunities came along. At the moment, though, it was time to forget about work and anything even remotely related to it.

"I had a dream about you last night," Jack whispered into Methos' ear while wrapping his arms around his waist.

"Tell me about it," Methos whispered back as he dried his hands then he shuddered as Jack nibbled his right earlobe.

"It involved sucking that scrumptious cock of yours," Jack cooed.

"Oh," Methos sighed as Jack's tongue traced the side of his neck. "Perhaps you should show me," he hinted.

"If you insist," Jack sighed and ran his hand down to Methos' pants. "First, I came up behind you here in the kitchen, and I stripped you from the waist down while telling you how much I've missed sucking your cock," he said and sent Methos' pants and boxers careening down to around his ankles.

"Sounds like a nice start," Methos purred. "Then what?"

"Then I turned you around," Jack said as he guided Methos to face him. "And I stopped talking," he whispered and pressed in for a deep, passionate kiss while stroking him.

Methos eased into the kiss as he slipped out of his shoes and socks and freed his ankles of his lower garments. Jack took note and dropped his trunks to the floor then he kicked their clothing out of the way and doubled the intensity of his stroking. Once Methos was fully hardened, Jack broke off and removed his lover's shirt then he lifted him onto the counter next to the sink and teased his navel with his tongue while spreading his legs apart.

"Was the counter freezing-ass cold in your dream?" Methos complained then he let out a tiny moan as Jack swirled his tongue along the tip of his waiting erection.

"You didn't mention it," Jack smirked then he drew Methos' cock into his mouth, slowly bobbing up and down, going lower with each pass until he had him fully engulfed.

"Damn, you're good at that," Methos panted and ran his fingers through Jack's honey brown hair while he watched him.

Jack smiled in response to Methos' comment and teased the tip again then he began to stroke himself in rhythm with his sucking of Methos, bringing them along together, taking his time and drawing out the pleasure. Eventually, he felt his control slipping, so he intensified his attention to Methos' arousal, sucking all the harder. A few moments later, Jack's breathing became labored and Methos could feel them both beginning to shake; they were very close.

Methos called out Jack's name then he erupted, releasing his first bit of cum into the back of his lover's mouth. Within seconds, he felt Jack's cum squirting onto his leg then the Aftershock hit, nearly causing him to fall off the counter. He held on to Jack's shoulders, letting out a deep moan, hearing it echo back at him, and squeezed his eyes tightly shut as the rippling of the shock slowly dissipated throughout his body.

"Delicious," Jack purred as he released Methos' now flaccid penis then he gave him a deep kiss, letting Methos taste as well.

"Hmmm...very," Methos agreed as Jack pulled away then he wiped some of Jack's cum off his leg and slowly sucked it off his fingers, savoring it. "You, too," he winked.

"Really?" Jack grinned and ran his tongue along Methos' inner thigh, lapping up his cum that remained there. "Yeah...guess so," he smirked and drew Methos in for another kiss, mixing there cum together inside their mouths until he needed to break away for air. "Shower?" he suggested, nuzzling Methos' neck.

"Grand idea," Methos said and slid off the counter into Jack's waiting arms. "I felt the Aftershock, you?" he asked as he gently groped his young lover.

"You betcha," Jack winked and grabbed one of Methos' ass cheeks, fondling it as he guided him toward the bathroom. "Just as energizing as before."

"Yes...quite," Methos agreed and stopped them just short of the doorway to nibble on Jack's neck. "Maybe we should test whether or not the Aftershock will hit when we're in the shower," he suggested with a devious grin creeping onto his face.

"A nice, long shower," Jack began and pulled Methos into the bathroom, "with you giving me a very thorough scrubbing," he sighed and reached behind him to turn on the water without breaking physical contact.

"Exactly," Methos sighed then he stopped his nibbling and gave Jack a most serious look. "Are you always this horny right after you've just come or is it only with me?"

"Only with you, Gorgeous," Jack replied and teased Methos' throat with his tongue. "I think it's a side effect of the Aftershock."

"That's what I was thinking, too," Methos concurred. "I've never been so excited immediately after...not until you. Fascinating...." he drifted off as he pondered their condition.

"Methos?" Jack whispered as he double-checked the water temperature.

"Yes, Jack?"

"Stop talking and start scrubbing," he instructed and stepped into the shower, dragging Methos along with him.

~ ~ ~

Methos leaned back against the kitchen counter, watching Jack as he dried and put away the last of the dishes and let out a tiny sigh. Seeing his lover doing such a simple, routine chore warmed Methos' heart in a way that he would always treasure. He'd learned the hard way that it's the small things one longs for once a lover is gone. Their smile, their laugh, the way they steal the covers at night. Those were the things he'd found that he consistently missed the most.

"What?" Jack asked.

"What?" Methos echoed.

"What are you thinking about?"

"You."

"Oh," Jack replied and moved to the refrigerator. "So, you wanted to talk?"

"Yes."

Jack nodded and retrieved the champagne Methos had brought along. He'd also purchased a very nice vintage for their time together, but Methos' choice was far superior. As soon as he'd seen it in the cooler, Jack had known they were in for a serious talk at some point, and it seemed that the time had arrived.

"Wanta start a fire while I open this?"

"Sure," Methos said with a grin and headed off to the living room, reflecting on their day together as he went about tending to the fireplace. It had been, for the most part, just as Methos had expected – filled with hot and hungry sex. During their shower, he had brought Jack to orgasm using his hand while rubbing his own erection into Jack's backside. As the Aftershock hit, Methos had lost all control, starting his own release and creating the need for them to clean each other again before stumbling into bed where they'd spent the rest of the afternoon.

After a prolonged kissing and groping session, they'd had a third round with Methos on the bottom and they'd come together with Jack collapsing as the Aftershock hit, pinning Methos to the mattress. They'd snuggled some more after that, both a bit dizzy from the intense sensation then hunger had struck them – hard. Methos still wondered if possibly the hunger was another side effect of the Aftershock, but Jack had discounted the notion, citing that they'd 'fucked each other sufficiently to work up their appetites'. His Jack might have difficulty at times expressing his feelings, but when he spoke his mind, he most certainly had a unique way with words.

"Nice job," Jack commented as he entered the room. "It'll take care of itself from here on," he hinted and sat on the sofa, placing the champagne and glasses on the table.

"Remember our first night together?" Methos asked, sitting down at Jack's side.

"How could I forget?" Jack chuckled and wrapped his arm around Methos' shoulders.

"Before we went to sleep...when you asked me about my name...I wasn't sure if I should tell you."

"I know. Sometimes I wonder if I should have pressed."

"Why?"

"I'm out in the field a lot. You never know what can happen."

"I knew you were a field man, but I also knew you wouldn't betray my trust...not willingly. It was a calculated risk. I chose to take it."

"Why?"

"Because you said it was important to you...and even then I was already falling in love with you," Methos whispered, caressing Jack's cheek.

"I love you, too," Jack whispered back and drew Methos in for a tender kiss.

"I have something for you," Methos said and loosened himself from Jack's embrace. "I'll be right back. Pour the champagne while I'm gone," he directed and went into the bedroom. A few moments later, he returned and placed two boxes, one medium and one large, on the coffee table then he reclaimed his seat next to Jack and took up his glass. "To hot sex," he toasted with a sly grin and sipped a bit of his champagne.

"I'll drink to that," Jack laughed and took a deep swallow from his own glass then he gave Methos a curious look. "So, which do I open first?"

"The smaller one," Methos answered and took another drink of champagne as he watched Jack take the box and remove the lid. He'd been anticipating this evening for weeks, thinking through each step in his mind until he was certain of how he wanted to proceed, but now that it was here, and he'd gotten things started, Methos couldn't help but feel nervous.

"Wow," Jack gaped as he put the lid off to one side. In the box, nestled in cotton packaging, was a dagger, nicer than any Jack had ever seen. It was about two feet in total length, finished in gold with a rounded end, and kind of a Viking look to the handle. "Looks like it was made to go with your sword," he commented, pointing to the cross-guard at the base of the blade.

"Maybe a little, but this is medieval German, my sword is Spanish."

"German?" Jack asked, lifting the impressive piece out of the box to admire it up close. He couldn't remember ever receiving such a stunning gift.

"Yes. Do you like it?"

"Very much," Jack replied and gave Methos a warm 'thank you' kiss. "When you bring home a souvenir, you don't fool around."

"I didn't get that during my trip. It's from my private collection."

"What? Are you sure you want to part with it?" Jack objected.

"Yes. I know it's in good hands with you, my love," Methos said, rubbing Jack's shoulder. "Besides, I can still visit it from time to time," he smirked.

"Absolutely," Jack agreed and placed the dagger gently down on the table. "So, is my souvenir in the other box?"

"Yes, but I need to tell you something first," Methos stated then he took hold of Jack's hands and looked him in the eye. "You're one of only four people alive who knows my true name."

"Exclusive club," Jack snickered.

"Very...there are many who would relish the opportunity to find me."

"Oh?"

"I'm not like you, Jack. You're mortal...you will age then you will die."

"Hopefully in that order, yes," Jack chuckled then his expression turned direly serious as Methos picked up the dagger from the coffee table. "What are you doing?" he asked warily.

"Promise me that you won't do anything...just watch."

"Methos..."

"Trust me?" Methos asked and gazed into Jack's deep brown eyes with a pleading look coming from his.

"Always," Jack heard himself whisper and took a deep swallow as the tension in the room mounted.

"I am what is called an immortal, Jack. I cannot die unless someone takes my head," Methos stated then he thrust the dagger into his chest and cringed with pain as he fell back onto the sofa.

"Methos!" Jack shouted and yanked the dagger from him, instantly taking to his field medical training, applying pressure to the wound.

"Be right back," Methos choked out then his eyes closed.

Jack blinked a few times, feeling as though he'd just been sucked back into The Keeper's fake world then he wondered for an instant if perhaps he'd never left it, and that this was just another one of The Keeper's sick ideas of a game. He quickly dismissed the possibility, though, since Teal'c had always been with him in The Keeper's simulations, and the Jaffa hadn't been anywhere near him since well before he'd left the base. This wasn't some virtual reality; this was all too real.

Jack took a deep breath and opened Methos' shirt to examine the wound. It looked like he'd cut straight into the heart. He checked for a pulse and found none then he felt for any sign that Methos was breathing, but he wasn't. Apparently, he was dead, or close to it, but that made no sense given that he'd just told Jack that he couldn't die unless someone took his head, and it was still very much attached to his body. Jack stared at Methos' wound in disbelief, trying to reason through what was happening and took another deep breath as he felt panic welling up within.

"Get a grip, Jack," he ordered himself and closed his eyes, wondering what to do. Methos had asked that he not do anything, that he just watch, but watch what? Screw not doing anything! Help was too far away for Jack to bother with calling 9-1-1, so he'd have to attempt to revive him on his own.

He adjusted Methos' body until he lay flat on the sofa then he administered mouth-to-mouth, trying to get him breathing again – it didn't work. Jack looked at the wound again and the bleeding had slowed considerably, so he commenced with CPR, trying to get the heart pumping, but that didn't work either.

"Shit!" Jack cried out and slammed his fist hard against Methos' chest. "Beat, damn it!" he shouted then he felt tears flowing down his cheeks and angrily wiped them away. Now was not the time to fall apart. He had to focus on getting Methos' pulse going again. Maybe an electric shock would do it...like they did with that doohickey with the paddles. What was that called again? Hell, what did it matter?

Jack grabbed a towel and wiped the blood from his hands as he made for his bedroom closet and retrieved the zat he kept hidden there when he was around, just in case some bizarre, unwelcome visitor should happen to drop by. Most people would probably think it insane to keep an alien energy weapon on hand, but with the remoteness of his cabin and the nature of his job; Jack considered it to be a reasonable precaution. He returned to Methos' side and checked him again, the bleeding had ceased, but still his lover had no pulse.

"Here goes," Jack whispered then he stepped back and opened fire. Methos' body convulsed as was normal for being hit by a zat burst, and Jack let out a tiny sigh of relief, thinking that maybe it had done the trick. A quick feel of his lover's neck, however, indicated that Methos' condition remained unchanged.

"Damn it!" Jack yelled and paced the floor a bit while considering if he should try shooting him again. Under normal circumstances, a second shot from a zat after so short a time would kill a person. But Methos was already dead, so it wouldn't do that in this case...or would it?

"Shit," Jack swore and went to the closet and grabbed his cell phone out of his jacket. He'd call Janet; she'd be able to advise him on what to try, and he had enough on her to insure that she'd never breathe a word about the incident to anyone. He turned on the phone and instantly cringed as he heard loud static coming from it. That was just what he needed, his service to act up on him. He hit the power button and tried again to get a dial tone and when he heard the static once more, he began cursing the phone company, the cell phone manufacturer and anyone else he could think of as he fussed with the annoying device.

Suddenly, Jack heard a crackling sound coming from Methos and stood stunned as his lover's body convulsed with a visible charge surrounding it. The phenomena looked just like when Jack had fired on him with the zat, but this time, Jack hadn't done so. Maybe it was a delayed reaction? Jack knelt at Methos' side to investigate and saw his chest wound beginning to heal before his eyes and gaped in disbelief.

"What the hell?" Jack muttered. Even Teal'c didn't heal so quickly from a stab wound, and definitely couldn't have recovered from this serious an injury without time in the infirmary. Whatever was happening to Methos, it made the healing abilities of the larval Goa'uld inside Teal'c look like amateur hour.

Jack then heard another crackling sound and jumped back slightly as another charge emanated from Methos. He studied the wound carefully and noted that it was continuing to heal then after a few minutes Jack concluded that Methos' body was doing whatever was necessary to revive itself. Satisfied that all he had to do was wait; Jack turned off his cell phone and put it and the zat back in place before returning to 'watch' as Methos had requested of him.

Eventually, the wound completely disappeared and Jack ran his hand along the spot, amazed that there wasn't even the slightest hint of a scar. A short time after that, Methos suddenly lurched forward with a gasp as he came back and Jack instinctively took hold of his shoulders.

"Damn...I thought I had secrets," Jack gasped, looking into his eyes. "Are you all right now?"

"Yes," Methos said, turning to sit with his feet on the floor.

"Good," Jack replied and belted Methos one right across the face. "You bastard, how dare you put me through that!"

"OW!" Methos cried out, grabbing at his jaw. "You cut my lip," he complained, as he tasted the blood coming from it.

"It'll heal," Jack countered. "Don't you dare pull that on me again," he demanded.

"I wasn't planning to," Methos replied, uncertain how to take Jack's reaction.

"Good. Now, what the hell gave you the idea to have me watch you die and come back?"

"I wanted you to see it with your own eyes...so you'd believe me," Methos explained.

"I can tell if you're lying or not, Methos. You could have skipped the damn melodrama. I believed you without it," Jack grumbled. "Let me get this cleaned up," he sighed and took up the dagger and walked away.

Methos stared after Jack more than just a little confused. He was taking the news of his immortality remarkably well – too well. Methos had expected him to be more shocked. He debated if he should go after him, but decided to wait as he heard the water turning on in the other room.

Meanwhile, Jack stood over the kitchen sink, cleaning the blood off the dagger and adjusting to the idea of his lover being an immortal. It had come as a bit of a shock, certainly unexpected since Jack hadn't known that immortals even existed, yet now that Methos was alive and breathing again, he felt surprisingly calm about the whole thing. After all his specialized training, not to mention the bizarre things he'd dealt with during his time stationed at the S.G.C., he was coping with the news just as he had all the other 'shocks' thrown his way over the years, drawing on his sense of professionalism.

"Jack?" Methos called out from the living room.

"Be right there," Jack called back as he turned off the water. He dried the dagger then he wetted another towel and carried it out with him.

As Jack entered the room, Methos was sitting on the edge of the sofa about to rise to his feet, but he stilled as he saw Jack returning. He took a moment and studied Jack's face to assess him. He had been shaken by the incident; Methos could see that now, but he still appeared to be accepting the news a little too calmly, and that made Methos nervous once more. What if Jack never wanted to see him again? There was only one way to find out.

"Here," Jack said, handing over the towel.

"So, are you okay with this?" Methos asked warily as he cleaned his hands.

"Okay with what? That you're an immortal? Sure...it doesn't change how I feel about you. When you love someone, you accept them for who and what they are," Jack said and turned his eyes away to the floor. "Besides, I've seen some pretty weird shit over the past year or so...I'm kinda getting used to it happening before my eyes," he offered, wishing that he could elaborate.

"Weird shit," Methos repeated. He'd never heard that reaction before, but Jack wasn't like anyone he'd ever met. "I suppose it is," he said with a tiny laugh.

"Yeah...so...are there others like you?" Jack asked.

"Yes. I avoid them for the most part."

"Why?"

The moment of truth had finally arrived. Methos took a deep breath and pressed forward with his most precious secret of all.

"When one immortal takes another's head, he or she takes the essence of the other, all their experience and strength. The older the immortal is, the greater the prize gained. I am the oldest of my kind, so far as I know. My real name is so guarded because as far as most immortals know, I'm only a myth. It's best to keep it that way."

"How old are you?" Jack asked as he sat back on the sofa.

"5,000 years, give or take."

Jack could see uneasiness in Methos' eyes and immediately pulled him into a warm embrace to comfort him while he processed this new piece of information. He'd heard of May-December romances, but never a BC-AD romance. Oh well, age hadn't been a factor so far, and Jack didn't see any reason to make it one now.

"5,000 years," Jack sighed and placed a tender kiss on Methos' forehead. At that age, Methos would have been around when Ra had been on Earth...when the Stargate had been out in clear view for the world to see. Too bad Jack couldn't tell Daniel. The young archaeologist would give anything to speak with someone who'd been alive at that time. "What was the world like back then?"

"Boring...no MTV," Methos joked.

"Seriously...what was it like?" Jack pressed, giving him a gentle squeeze. Just because Daniel couldn't query him, that didn't mean Jack couldn't. Ra was dead; Jack had killed him, but still, it would be useful to have any information he could garner about the Goa'uld since there were others out there roaming about.

"I'll let you read my journals sometime," Methos promised then he picked up the big box and held it across his lap. "In Ancient Greece, for two men to be lovers wasn't the taboo that it is in the world today. In fact, it was assumed that men would have both women and younger men for lovers."

"Well, I'm certainly younger," Jack chuckled. He was nervous; he always made lame jokes when he was nervous.

"Yes, but wise for your years," Methos tenderly told him and gently squeezed his hand relieved to see that he was nervous, too. "Among the Thebans, the older man would give his lover a set of armour as a gift upon reaching manhood. However, you're already a man and a warrior in your own right, so that wouldn't be appropriate," he said and laid the box on Jack's lap. "Open it," he instructed.

Jack took a deep swallow and removed the lid, dropping it to the floor as he gazed upon the sword inside. It made the dagger look like some old piece of junk metal. It was a short sword, about seven or eight inches longer than the dagger, with an awesome blade meant to do some serious damage in the right hands. It started out flat, as any typical blade, but had a minor partition in the center to give a slightly bent look and tapered to a fine point where it had been thinned and polished for an almost two-toned appearance. Moreover, the handle was simply breathtaking with it's rounded shape and intricate design, all in solid gold with small jewels adorning it, mounted in such a manner that they wouldn't interfere with the holder's grip. This was definitely a unique piece of art.

"Methos...I..." Jack began, but Methos placed his fingertips across his lips to silence him.

"It's a Spartan officer's sword...designed for close combat. I'll teach you how to use it with the dagger if you decide to accept it."

"Accept it?" Jack blinked.

"Look at the base of the blade," Methos directed and ran his index finger along the word engraved there. "This is written in an Ancient form of Latin."

"Looks like hieroglyphs."

"Yes, well Latin started out that way," Methos informed him and took a deep breath before pressing on. "The word reads 'enamoramei'. It means 'my dearest love'. I cannot propose marriage to you for any number of reasons, but I can pledge my heart and soul to you...that we will be as one in spirit...united no matter how far apart we are." Methos then cupped Jack's chin and gazed once more into his eyes. "Will you allow me that honor, Jack?"

Jack felt a tiny tear escape, cascading down his right cheek then he felt Methos' fingers wiping it away and his lips pressing to his forehead.

"I will still love you if you say no..."

"Yes," Jack whispered.

"You can take your time...sleep on it," Methos offered, giving him a chance to reconsider.

"I accept," Jack said and gave Methos a tender kiss. "We've already made that commitment to one another in our hearts. This just makes it official," he said, gently caressing Methos' cheek. "You and me being together was inevitable...like we were destined to find each other someday..." he trailed off, getting lost in his lover's dreamy, hazel eyes.

"Fait accompli?"

"Yeah...that," Jack agreed and placed the sword back in the box and onto the table. "I guess we should discuss some parameters."

"Not tonight...we have three more days."

"Okay...just one little thing I gotta ask, though."

"What's that, my love?"

"Up to now, you've been letting me be the alpha...is that gonna work for you going forward?" Jack asked with a boyish grin on his face.

"I wouldn't have it any other way," Methos snickered. "Just so long as you bottom on occasion," he qualified.

"I can do that," Jack smirked then he picked up their glasses and handed Methos his. "To many years together," he toasted. "Filled with hot sex," he playfully added.

"I'll drink to that," Methos laughed.

They both finished off their glasses then Jack refilled them and pulled Methos back to rest on his shoulder.

"Tell me more about being an immortal...what your life was like before you were Adam Pierson," Jack requested and kissed Methos on the forehead as they started to snuggle.

"Where should I begin?"

Jack was tempted to go back to Ra's time and ask if Methos had been in Egypt then, but he decided against it. Gleaning information that could be useful for work wasn't something he wanted to do just then. This was a special evening, and he didn't want to ruin it.

"When you were at my house and offered to use the name Benjamin was that a joke, or was it really your name at one time?"

"It was my name...back in the late 1400s...I was a medical doctor."

"Then start there."

"Okay," Methos agreed and settled in, savoring Jack's firm touch and the gentle roar of the fire while he recalled all his fond memories of the time.

~ ~ ~

Jack woke to the enticing aroma of freshly brewed coffee and slowly stretched before sliding out of bed. A quick survey of the room revealed that Methos had picked up after their mess from the night before, stacking their clothes and shoes neatly in the closet. If he kept this sort of thing up for very long, Jack was going to be spoiled rotten. Yet, it was a risk he was willing to take.

"You awake in there?" Methos called out.

"Yeah...just got up," Jack yawned and padded to the bathroom. "Be out in a few," he called out and went through his morning ritual being sure his teeth and breath were mint-y fresh before joining his lover on the sofa.

"Good morning, Handsome," Methos greeted him and drew him in for a warm, lingering kiss.

"Hmmm....nice," Jack purred.

"Do you want your first lesson this morning?"

"Sure, as long as we go fishing after," Jack cooed, wrapping his arms around Methos' waist. "That is why we came here, remember?"

"Right. We can keep breakfast light?"

"Sounds good. Fruit Loops work for you?"

"Fruit Loops? Isn't that a child's cereal?"

"Well, according to some, I have yet to grow up," Jack stated and made for the kitchen.

"I don't know about that," Methos countered, following behind him. "You may be young, but I'd hardly consider you a child," he whispered, squeezing Jack's buttocks.

"I'm warning you...if you want to make it out of the cabin at all today, don't get me started."

"My, but you know how to tempt a man," Methos teased, letting loose his hold. "Alright, lesson, fishing, dinner, massage."

"In that order?" Jack asked playfully, handing over a bowl of cereal.

"Yes. I'll need to eat to build up my strength before the massage," Methos winked.

"Hmmm....so I get to massage you first?"

"If you can knock me down during the lesson."

"You're on," Jack agreed and grabbed the milk before leading Methos over to the table.

~ ~ ~

Jack lie with his face on the ground, debating if he should just stay there. He'd been embarrassed enough when Bra'tac had knocked him down repeatedly, but at least with him, he'd managed to get in a few good licks of his own – not so with Methos. With Bra'tac, Jack had reasoned that the 130-something Jaffa simply had more recent field experience than he did at the time. However, now that his lover had flattened him for the twentieth time, he realized that it was the total years of experience that had made the difference with Bra'tac, just as it was with Methos.

"Get up," Methos instructed. "You'll never learn from down there."

"Uncle already," Jack surrendered. "You can rub me first tonight. Let's go fishing while I can still lift the rod."

"I'm dating a wuss," Methos complained and dropped one of his wooden practice swords so he could offer his hand. "Come on."

"Wuss," Jack repeated. He grabbed Methos' hand and attempted to kick his legs out from under him, but found his arm pinned behind his back instead with his cheek yet again pressed into the ground.

"I saw your attempt before you made it. You took too long looking at my legs. You must learn to control your gaze...make your checks more quickly...more subtly."

"Now, you tell me," Jack sighed.

"If I told you at first, you would have scoffed. This way you will never forget," Methos explained and dropped his other practice sword before lifting Jack to his feet and swatting his ass. "Now, you understand why I refused to use our real swords."

"Yeah...thanks."

"You use your gun in the field, don't you?"

"Quite a bit," Jack admitted and took the water bottle as Methos offered it. "That and some C-4 on occasion," he said with a smile.

"You like big bangs?" Methos teased and took the bottle back for a long drink as well.

"Some more than others," Jack smirked. "Let's change and take our lunch with us in the boat."

"The rowboat?"

"Yes," Jack confirmed and started for the cabin, picking up his practice gear as he passed it.

"I don't particularly care for being out on the water," Methos informed him as he followed.

"Really? I thought you stayed on a barge when you were in Paris."

"Yes, well, that's the exception; not the rule. I had a bad experience in a rowboat once and it's put me off on the water ever since."

"What happened?" Jack asked as they entered the cabin. He made for the bedroom straight away and the two traded their sweats for swim trunks as Methos told the story of how he'd crossed the Atlantic from Ireland to Iceland with a group of monks. There'd been seven of them in total, sharing one rowboat with no facilities. Jack could only imagine how rank they must have been by the end of the journey. "What year was that?"

"765."

"Scarred you for life...too bad," Jack sympathized. "Alright, no boat. Leave your shirt off. We'll sit on the dock and work on our tans."

"Do I get to put the lotion on you?" Methos flirted.

"If I get to do you in return."

"Deal."

Jack led the way, showing Methos where all the necessary equipment was stored. He kept several fishing rods on hand, since most of his guests didn't have their own. After a quick perusal, Methos chose one at random; utterly clueless as to why one would be preferred to another. He hadn't needed to actually fish or hunt for his own food in centuries and the concept of doing either purely for sport wasn't one that he warmly embraced. However, he had agreed to go fishing with Jack, so he would count the activity as 'quality time'. Besides, he may even learn to enjoy it; stranger things had happened before.

Once they set up their chairs and tackle, Jack ducked back inside the cabin, emerging a brief time later with Methos' cooler filled with beer and lunchmeats.

"We can make our sandwiches as we get hungry," Jack announced and took out two beers, handing one over as he took his seat.

"With what?"

"Huh?"

"I see beer and meat...nothing else."

"Oh...right," Jack said and began to stand, but Methos held him in place.

"Allow me," he offered, picking up the packages of lunchmeats, and headed back into the cabin.

Nearly twenty minutes later, Methos rejoined Jack, carrying four gorgeous sandwiches, wrapped in plastic for placement in the cooler. As he reached the dock, he saw Jack using the dagger he'd given him to cut some fishing line and grimaced. He'd had that dagger in his collection for hundreds of years, and never had it been used for such a menial task.

"What's wrong?" Jack asked while keeping his focus on fixing his rod.

"Wrong?"

"You made that snorting sound."

"What snorting sound?"

"The one you make when you're holding your tongue. You made it a lot this morning during practice. Spill it."

"I'm not accustomed to seeing that dagger used in such a manner," Methos began and placed the sandwiches in the cooler. "Not that it's a problem...it's not...I mean, I expected you would use it in the field, but more for your work...not recreation," he said as he reclaimed his seat then he took a deep swallow of his beer.

"Ah. Well, it's gonna be useful there, too," Jack chuckled and carefully wiped the blade with a cloth before putting it back in its sheath. "I'll take good care of it."

"I know."

Jack shared a tiny smile with Methos while he cast his line out into the pond and waited until Methos had done likewise before he took the bottle of sunscreen in hand.

"Here you go, Gorgeous," Jack said and gently tossed the bottle.

"Splendid," Methos purred and sat down his rod so he could get closer to Jack and use both hands.

Jack sat forward in his chair and closed his eyes, shutting out everything but the sounds of nature and the feel of Methos' hands gliding across his body as he coated him. He so enjoyed the attention that when his lover's hands left, Jack automatically let out a tiny sigh of disappointment.

"You liked that, I think," Methos teased.

"What's not to like?"

"My turn," Methos prompted and wiped the excess lotion from his hands while Jack prepared to cover him. By the time Jack was done, Methos was so relaxed that he nearly fell asleep.

"That alright?"

"Wonderful," Methos purred and gave Jack a tiny kiss. "I suppose we should watch our rods," he hinted.

"Yeah, I suppose."

"So, what kind of fish do you have in here?"

"None."

"None?"

"Not a one," Jack confirmed and cast his line out again.

"Uh...Jack...this may seem like a silly question...but why are we fishing here if there are no fish?"

"Because you didn't want to go out on the boat. Besides, it's not catching fish that matters, it's the act of fishing itself that's relaxing."

Methos stared at Jack for a long moment wondering if he was joking, but quickly deduced that he wasn't and cleared his throat.

"You've never even caught a fish, have you?"

"Nope. Still love to fish, though," Jack replied and settled back in his seat, letting out a tiny sigh. "Think of it as my own unique form of meditation."

"Ah. Since you put it that way," Methos said and eased back in his chair while closing his eyes. "I could get used to this...easier than maintaining the lotus position," he joked.

"Exactly, and gentler on the knees."

A comfortable silence fell over them after that and they spent the rest of the afternoon 'fishing' and relaxing with an occasional bit of conversation while they made their way through the beers in the cooler. Fortunately, they ate the sandwiches as will, but even so, by late in the afternoon they were both pleasantly buzzed.

"I think we outta go inside now," Jack said and ran his hand along Methos' inner thighs. "Bed's more comfortable than the dock," he winked.

"What 'bout dinner?" Methos asked as he ran his fingertips through Jack's chest hairs.

"We'll set the alarm and make it a midnight buffet," Jack suggested with a sly grin. "Whatcha think?"

"I think you brought that beer out here, planning to get me drunk so you could take advantage of me," Methos said, feigning innocence and reached out and took a firm hold of Jack's balls. "It won't work...my tolerance level is higher than yours."

"Feels like it's working to me," Jack smirked then passion covered his face as he pressed in for a deep kiss while guiding Methos to his feet. "Inside...we'll drop this stuff off on the porch," he ordered and grabbed the cooler and rods, leaving the rest for Methos.

Within a few minutes, Jack had Methos at the foot of the bed, threatening to topple them down on top of it when Methos took control, spinning Jack around and knocking him down.

"I get to do you first, remember?" Methos asked as he stripped off his trunks.

"Right," Jack said with a grin and kicked off his trunks before positioning himself face down on the mattress. "My left shoulder needs extra attention."

"Is that so?" Methos teased and knelt at Jack's side. "Have you ever had a Thai massage?"

"Never even heard of it."

"Good."

"It's not gonna involve poking me with needles is it?"

"No," Methos chuckled. "Just relax and do as you're told."

"Okay."

Methos began with his palms at the top of Jack's spine and slowly ran them down his back to his ass and gave it a playful kneading.

"Spread your legs."

Jack did so and Methos knelt between them and gave Jack another long stroke down the length of his back followed by a brief rimming that made his head start to spin.

"Interesting massage technique," Jack said jokingly.

"Well, this is my own variation," Methos smirked and rimmed him again. "We haven't gotten to the actual Thai part yet."

"Oh...maybe we should skip it then...this is definitely feeling wonderful," Jack sighed.

"We can do both...I just couldn't resist your fine ass any longer."

"Feel free to not resist all you want," Jack said then he moaned as Methos rimmed him once more.

"Thai massage actually has its roots in India," Methos stated as he finally began the massage and placed his knees on Jack's buttocks with his calves resting on the back of his thighs. "It focuses primarily on ten energy lines of the body," he said and traced each one roughly with his fingertips as he described them.

Jack lay still, listening, not hearing half of what Methos said. Between the beers and the rimming, Jack was feeling no pain as it were, and he didn't care what Methos did or said at that point as long as his hands were touching some part of his body, which they were – and how.

"So, do you want to try one of the positions?" Methos asked.

"Huh?" Jack mumbled, coming out of his daze. "Sure."

"Splendid," Methos replied and placed a tender kiss on Jack's neck as he took hold of his wrists. "Relax and let me move your body," he whispered and sat up then leaned back, pulling Jack along with him, straightening his arms behind him until Jack's head was arching and his entire torso was lifted off the bed. Methos held him in the position for what seemed like an eternity to Jack then he gently guided him back to rest on his stomach and nuzzled his neck.

"Wow," Jack sighed. He wasn't sure what had just happened, but it had felt incredible. It was like Methos had squeezed whatever tension Jack had built up right out through his ass or something. "Are all the positions that relaxing?"

"Some are even more so," Methos whispered and rubbed his growing erection against Jack's lower back. "Do you want to try another?"

"Yeah."

"Okay," Methos told him then he directed him into a seated position with his legs crossed over, not quite the lotus position, but as close as Jack could manage with his bad knees. "Lean forward, elbows bent, resting on your forearms."

Jack did as instructed and was rewarded with Methos' hands chopping along his back with laser precision. Whatever aches were left in his body didn't stand a chance; they were toast.

"This is called 'chopping the back lines'."

"Feels great," Jack purred and closed his eyes while Methos worked him over.

Methos loved giving massage. It always relaxed him just as much, if not more, than it did his partner. He tuned into Jack's breathing, focusing on applying the right amount of pressure to the proper points until he was so aroused that he began to have difficulty concentrating. He'd have to show him the other positions another time.

"On your back, my love," Methos said and got some lube from the nightstand while Jack turned around. "Bottom for me?" he asked as a courtesy. He didn't want to assume anything. He and Jack may love each other, but even the closest of lovers had moments when they simply weren't in the mood to submit to penetration.

"Do I get to watch your face?"

"Absolutely."

"Excellent," Jack smirked and relaxed more into the pillow. He was already feeling so damn good as it was; watching Methos fill him was going to be positively dreamy. "You are so gonna spoil me."

"And you, me," Methos whispered and lie down at Jack's side, pushing into his mouth with his tongue while pushing into his ass with first one finger and then two.

Jack willfully relaxed his muscles even more, allowing Methos to have him prepared in virtually no time. He let out a low moan as his lips were released and Methos lifted his legs then he gasped as his lover slid inside with one fluid motion.

"All right, Jack?" Methos asked to be sure.

Jack smiled and mumbled something unintelligible in response. He was so overwhelmed with the rush that he was surprised that he'd managed to make any kind of response at all.

Methos caressed Jack's thighs a bit, waiting for their bodies to adjust to the connection and gazed down upon his young lover. He was simply gorgeous. The way his eyes brightened with each pass of Methos' hands, the way his lips curled as he let out a series of gentle moans, Methos could get lost just staying as they were. He felt Jack nudge him a tiny bit and smiled at him, making eye contact then he kept his focus on those darkened pools as he thrust in and out, in and out, until he saw them fly open wide.

"Found it," Methos panted then he closed his eyes and pounded in hard and fast, over and over, giving them both pleasure. When Jack's breathing became labored, Methos reached down and began to stroke him, bringing him toward the edge even faster.

"Methos," Jack growled and lurched upward as his release started. The next moment the Aftershock hit and Methos cried out as he erupted inside, trembling from the sensation.

"Damn, Jack," he panted and let his legs down, shoving himself in even further and leaning down to reach Jack's neck. He placed a series of tender kisses then he moved lower to below the neckline and swirled his tongue on one of Jack's most sensitive spots. "Let me mark you?"

Usually, Jack was very careful to not allow any marks, but at that moment he didn't care. Methos had chosen a spot where it would be easily covered by his shirt, so he nodded his approval and held the back of Methos' head, pulling him closer as he sucked the spot, causing a good-sized bruise to form.

"That's it...damn, Methos," Jack panted then the room started to spin. "Oh, shit," he cursed and passed out with Methos still inside him.

Methos ceased his sucking and checked Jack's pulse. He was fine...just blacked out.

"Been a while since I did that to anyone," Methos chuckled then he carefully removed himself from Jack and positioned him more comfortably before covering him with the bedding. He watched Jack sleeping so peacefully, looking almost angelic and let out a tiny sigh. Jack may have overloaded and passed out, but Methos was horny again – definitely had to be from the Aftershock. "Be right back, my love," he whispered and padded off for a cold shower so he could calm down enough to join him for a nap.

~ ~ ~

Jack hovered over Methos holding his practice sword to his throat and let out a sigh of triumph. It was about damn time he knocked him down for a change. He'd lost track of how many times Methos had flattened him; he ached all over from the persistent beating, but now, finally, he was getting somewhere and felt himself welling up with pride.

"You can let me up now," Methos said.

"I like you like this," Jack countered with a grin.

"Feeling confident of yourself, huh?"

"Yep."

"Be careful," Methos warned and flipped them over, reversing their positions, pinning Jack to the ground. "There's a fine line between confidence and cockiness. You just crossed it; try not to do it again," he said and rose to his feet.

Jack stood as well and placed his right hand on Methos' shoulder, waiting for the water bottle. Once they'd both had their fill, Jack wiped his mouth and took up position for starting the next round, but Methos remained in a casual stance, staring out at the pond.

"When are you playing poker again?"

"With Andy?"

"Yes."

"Next weekend if I'm home," Jack said and eased his stance, moving to Methos' side. "Why?"

"How well do you do against him?"

"I hold my own," Jack shrugged.

"Uh-huh....poker is all about observation...learning your opponent. You've done well learning my moves that I've shown you yesterday and today...do the same with Andy and you'll clean his clock."

Jack nodded, considering Methos' words. He knew how to assess an opponent, a situation, devise a course of action, lead his men in executing said plan, but he'd never connected any of that with poker before. He'd always treated poker night as merely an amusing diversion and hadn't really put much effort into improving his game.

"I suppose you'll want a percentage when I do," Jack teased.

"No...just the spoils of victory," Methos smirked, briefly grazing Jack's groin with his fingertips. "Let's get our swords."

"I get to graduate to the real thing?" Jack asked playfully.

"Yes. Just remember the line...don't get cocky on me. You don't heal as quickly."

"Right."

"Just your sword for now, not the dagger. Hold it in your right hand."

"Okay," Jack said and picked it up, taking time to once again appreciate its beauty. In a small way, he almost felt guilty using it.

"Now, the key to fighting with two weapons as opposed to one is that you be sure you can wield both simultaneously. We will practice that with the wooden swords tomorrow. You're already familiar with daggers, so now, I want you to begin to grow accustomed to your sword, find its balance, get used to its grip and feel."

"Okay."

"Follow my lead," Methos instructed and began a basic warm-up with his own sword, moving slowly and deliberately, so Jack could keep up.

Jack watched for a long moment then he joined in, adjusting his grip until his sword felt like an extension of his arm. All the moves were short and near to the body with the speed gradually increasing as they continued. After a while, Methos added some simple footwork and slowed the pace slightly when Jack nearly tripped. He shook off the temporary set back, though, and was soon once more in sync with Methos' movements. By the end of the session, they flowed so smoothly together that it was nearly as if they were dancing.

"Very good. You feel the difference?" Methos asked, getting the water bottle.

"Yeah...those extra inches make a huge difference. May I?" Jack asked, holding out his hand toward Methos' sword.

"Sure, but be careful," he cautioned.

Jack took hold of the sword and instantly felt his wrist drop from its weight.

"How the hell do you fight with this?"

Methos let out a tiny laugh and took hold of Jack's hand, positioning it on the handle so that it would be easier to grasp.

"There...better?"

"Much, but this thing is still damn heavy."

"Yes, well, it's like with bowling...you start out with the lighter weight ball and graduate to the heavier one."

"Bowling?"

"What?"

"Somehow, I can't picture you bowling."

"Ah," Methos chuckled. "1950s in Philadelphia...sock hops then bowling after. Those poodle skirts fly up when the women bend over to release the ball. Then the mini-skirt replaced them and took all the fun away. I mean, where's the imagination in that?"

Jack laughed and shook his head.

"No wonder you get off on me teasing you."

"And you do it so well," Methos purred then he took a deep breath before he started something that would land them back in bed. "So, enough for now. Lunch?"

"Let's pack one and go for a nice, long drive. I'll show you the area then tonight we can have dinner under the stars and pop open that other bottle of champagne."

"Sounds romantic...you're on," Methos said with a wink.

"Nice...you shower first," Jack said and waved him off.

"Okay."

Once Methos was out of sight, Jack took up his dagger, holding it in his left hand since he knew enough to hold the shorter and lighter blade in his non-dominant hand and placed his sword in his right. He stood in his starting position then he attempted to wield both at once and nicked his right forearm.

"Damn," Jack mumbled under his breath.

"I told you we'll practice with the wooden ones first," Methos said as he approached. He took hold of Jack's right wrist and examined the cut and tenderly kissed it. "Barely a scratch. Don't worry; everyone has to cut himself at least once."

"I thought you were taking your shower."

"I came back to help with the gear."

"Oh."

"Come on...we'll shower together."

"What about our drive?"

"We'll just shower. I promise."

"Alright," Jack agreed with a smile and drew Methos in for another kiss before following him into the cabin.

~ ~ ~

Jack turned off the highway, taking them into a small town and slowed considerably as he cruised the main street. After a couple of blocks, he pulled his truck over in front of a small row of stores and parked.

"We're stopping?" Methos asked a bit surprised. The town was so incredibly small that they'd probably have missed it if Jack had kept them on the highway.

"Yes. Come on," Jack said and led him to a gift shop at the end of the block.

Immediately upon entry, an older woman in her mid-sixties, or thereabouts, emerged from the rear, greeting them with a beaming smile. No bell had sounded as they'd passed through the door to alert her to their presence, so Methos automatically scanned for surveillance equipment and quickly spotted the camera and silently chuckled. Even out in the middle of nowhere, there was no escaping being caught on tape.

"Jonathan O'Neill, it has been too long since these old eyes have seen you," she called out and motioned Jack toward her. "Give Aunt Ellie a hug."

"Hi, Ellie," Jack said and did as told, giving her a chaste hug.

"Jonathan? Oh...right, your first name," Methos said as he recalled when Jack had told him.

"Aye, that's his birth name. I won't call him Jack. That's not a name; it's what I use when I have a flat tire," Ellie said and gave Methos a good once over with her eyes. "Who's your handsome, young friend, Jonathan? And, more importantly, is he available?" she flirted.

"Doctor Adam Pierson," Methos replied and took Ellie's hand, placing a tender kiss on the back of it. "And regretfully, I must say not available," he said gazing into her eyes.

Jack flashed a tiny grin in Methos' direction, amused with how he was handling Ellie, and not the least bit surprised. He'd kissed Carter's hand when they'd met as well, establishing eye contact with those dreamy hazel orbs of his. In both cases, the move resulted in Methos gaining control of the conversation, and in Carter's case he probably could have talked her into bed that night if he hadn't already set his eyes on Jack.

"Too bad," Ellie pouted and shifted her focus back to Jack as she literally turned his head to face her.

"You don't eat much at that Air Force base of yours," she complained and punched his stomach. "You need more meat on those bones."

Methos chuckled slightly and continued his careful perusal of the establishment with his eyes then when he saw Jack and Ellie entering into a full-blown conversation he strolled around, checking things out more thoroughly. The store had a very open feel, and a definite Celtic theme. The artwork adorning the walls, both for sale and not, was predominantly of the Scottish highlands, Duncan's homeland. Methos considered possibly purchasing one of the pictures for him, but they were all prints and Duncan only liked original pieces, no matter how magnificent a reproduction may be. Oh well, his loss.

The rest of the store was organized into different enclaves – cards and stationery, knickknacks, children's items, music and books, and woolens. Methos drifted over to the sweaters and instantly recognized the craftsmanship without checking the label. They were all 100% wool and made in Ireland. To find such exquisite garments in northern Minnesota was a delightful surprise.

"Hey, Jack, you need a sweater?" Methos called out.

"I have plenty...pick one for you if you want," Jack replied.

"I think I shall," Methos said and chose one that had particularly caught his eye – creamy white with a herringbone and cable knit to it. He'd never seen such a unique combination of stitches. He held it up, supposedly to inspect it further, and glanced past it to Jack, letting out a tiny sigh as he envisioned Jack wearing it and nothing else. It was just long enough that it should cover all but the very bottom of his bared buttocks leaving those sweet cheeks teasingly out for Methos' viewing pleasure. "Scrumptious," he muttered under his breath and resolved to coax Jack into donning the sweater for him at some point during the evening.

"So, what brings you here, Jonathan?" Ellie asked as she went behind the counter.

"I want to fix up my friend here with one of those friendship rings."

As Methos heard Jack's answer, he felt his throat go dry and stepped to join him at the counter.

"There's a lucky woman out there somewhere," Ellie commented. "Will he need one for her as well?"

"No...she's already got hers," Jack replied.

"I keep them in back...14 or 18 carat?"

"18," Jack answered and waited until Ellie was gone before discretely taking hold of Methos' hand down where the counter would block the action from being caught by the camera. "I want you to have something, too," he said as he squeezed then he let loose his hold.

"A Claddagh Ring?" Methos asked.

"Yes."

Methos gave Jack a beaming smile. He hadn't even thought of wearing a ring as a symbol of their commitment; he'd reasoned that Jack wouldn't want a public display given he was in the military.

"Are you sure you want me to wear one? I mean, if someone finds out you gave it to me it could cause problems."

"A wedding band would cause problems, and a signet ring would raise too many questions since I wouldn't give you one without my family's crest on it. The beauty of these rings is that they can mean either friendship or love, and I dare anyone to challenge me about it. I know enough skeletons that I can take just about anyone down with me. Trust me. It won't be a problem."

"Okay," Methos agreed and turned his attention to Ellie as she returned with the case. Inside was an assortment of 'Irish heart rings' as Methos had always fondly thought of them. They varied in size and detail, but the essential core was the same – a heart encircled by a pair of hands with a crown above the heart.

"These originally meant 'in love and friendship let us reign'. They were the symbol of the fishermen in a village near Galway city," Ellie said as Methos took one to try on.

"Yes. The symbol wasn't placed on a ring until the 17th century, though," Methos pointed out and traded the one ring for another that was slightly larger.

"He knows his history," Ellie said, sounding impressed.

"Yes," Jack agreed and watched carefully while Methos selected his ring. Once he'd determined the correct ring size, Jack reached over and took one with a larger emblem and adorned with gorgeous design work, which was far nicer than the one Methos had and exchanged it with him. "Try this one."

"Jack, a plain one is fine," Methos protested.

"Oh, pshaw...you'll be wearing it for years...do it right," Jack pressed.

"Okay," Methos agreed and slid it onto the ring finger of his right hand.

"It looks stunning. You like?"

"Yes."

"Good. Ring it up, Ellie. He'll wear it out."

"Check or card?"

"Here," Jack said, handing over his credit card. "And the sweater, too."

"Be right back," Ellie said and went into her office to run the card through the machine.

"Thank you," Methos whispered once she was gone.

"You're welcome," Jack whispered in return and took hold of Methos' hand as before then he turned their backs to the camera. "Just one thing," he said and removed the ring then replaced it with the heart pointed toward Methos' wrist.

"That implies betrothal, you know."

"I know," Jack said and casually pivoted so he could face Ellie as she returned. "It's on your right hand, not your left. Most people won't have a clue," he said before she could get within hearing distance.

"True," Methos agreed. The cultural awareness of most of modern society was pathetic. If anyone did wonder about the positioning of the ring, Methos would deal with it. The important thing was that he and Jack understood the significance, and really that's all that mattered.

Jack signed the sales slip then he and Methos said good-bye to Ellie and made their way to the truck. Once inside, Jack reached over and ran his hand along Methos' left thigh, leaving it to rest just above his knee.

"Ready to head back?"

"Yes, and maybe you could model this sweater for me when we get there?"

"Model the sweater?"

"And nothing else," Methos said with a wink.

"Ah...sounds like we're in for a late dinner again tonight," Jack teased and gave Methos' thigh a gentle squeeze then he took his hand back so he could concentrate on driving and got them back on the highway.

~ ~ ~

Methos woke with Jack spooned snuggly warm behind him, holding him firmly to the bed, and silently cursed Mother Nature. The last thing he wanted just then was to emerge from their cocoon, but she was giving him no choice in the matter.

"Jack...sweetheart," Methos whispered.

"Huh?"

"I need to get up."

Jack mumbled something unintelligible and let loose his hold, allowing Methos to slide out of bed. After a brief stretch, Jack sat up, rubbing his face and let out a deep breath. He could so easily get used to having Methos with him every morning, but there was only going to be one more before they had to drive home. His trips to the cabin were never long enough, and Jack always felt a bit let down when he made the drive back to Colorado, whether he'd had company with him or not. Maybe this time, though, he could extend things a bit. It certainly couldn't hurt to try.

"Penny for your thoughts," Methos said as he returned and sat on the edge of the bed.

"I was just thinking of how we could have more time together," Jack said and drew Methos in for a tender kiss. "Are you in a hurry to get back to New York?"

"No, but you have to get back to base, don't you?"

"Yes. I'm thinkin' you could drive back with me...squeeze in a couple more days before you go home. I could show you my favorite stops along the way."

"Sounds delightful," Methos readily agreed. "My truck's a rental. We can drop it off the first chance we get and I'll fly back. Will that work?"

"Sure," Jack chuckled. "A rental, huh? Were you planning to go home with me?"

"I was hoping you'd ask me to. With your schedule, who knows when I might see you again. We'll still have our chats...and I enjoy them, but I admit that being with you has me rather spoiled," Methos said, running his fingers through Jack's chest hairs.

"Yeah, me, too," Jack purred and gave Methos another gentle kiss. "About the chats...I should warn you that there are times when I might just disappear for a while. Sometimes I get called off without a chance to go home first and one of the conditions for using the site is that I not access it while on a military base."

"I understand. If that happens, I won't worry unless you're gone for a whole month. How's that?"

"That'll work," Jack agreed. Whenever SG-1 had been quarantined or detained off world, the longest they'd been out of communication was two or three weeks. Giving him a month leeway for the unexpected should be more than sufficient. "Thanks for understanding."

"No problem. Sometimes I need to take off at a moment's notice and lay low for a while, and I may not always be able to contact you either."

"We always have Joe to act as go-between."

"Yes, and I'll give you Duncan's number so you have it, too. He's like family and I've told him about you."

"Only good things I hope," Jack quipped.

"Yes. He's anxious to meet you. He'll be coming to New York later in the year and suggested that I try to arrange for the three of us to have dinner."

"His treat?"

"I suppose."

"Well, in that case, I'll try to schedule a little flight time while he's in town. Kill two birds with one stone."

"Good idea," Methos chuckled, rising to his feet then he held out his hand. "For today, how about breakfast, fishing, lesson, Simpsons?"

"In that order?"

"More or less...we'll see how the day goes."

"Sounds good," Jack agreed and took his hand, pulling him into a warm embrace. "I love you, Methos."

"I love you, too, Jack."

A wonderful, comfortable silence came over them and they remained still for a long time, listening to each other's breaths until they became as one. Neither had expected to fall in love so deeply or so quickly, but they had, and as they held each other, they both realized how truly special this relationship was going to be. Deep down, they could sense that this was the beginning of the greatest love of their lives, and each determined in his own silent way to savor every moment for at long at they could last.

FIN