~ Trying to Fall in Love ~
by Queen Karena & Red Hope


Disclaimers: Violence: None so far.

Subtext: We definitely are subtext writers.

Copyright: Universal/MCA owns Xena, Gabrielle, Argo, and Joxer. Karena and Red Hope own the story line, so do not touch it!

Time Frame: Fifth season based.

Started: December 7th 2000, Thursday

redhope@redhope.net


Chapter Nine: A New Meaning of Bedtime?

"Well… that didn't go so bad," mentioned Gabrielle between her yawn.

Xena grinned, grabbed the doorknob and opened the door. She held open the door for her partner. "Nope."

The warrior-bard nodded and entered into the room.

The Warrior Princess came in next and closed the door behind. She stared at her friend's back as she stared down at the bed.

Gabrielle ran her fingers through her hair and whispered, "Bedtime now or write?" She put her hands on her hips, still debating. "To write or not to write, that is the question."

Xena shook her head with her grin. She quietly came up from behind and snaked her arms around her partner's waist.

"Hmmmm." The small warrior smiled in softness and leaned back into her warrior. Her arms and hands rested on top of Xena's while her head rested against Xena's chest.

The warrior lowered her head and asked, "Comfortable?" quietly.

"Oh yeah," replied the younger warrior gently. Her body faintly shook from Xena's light laughter.

Xena, without consideration, began brushing her lips against her friend's neck.

"Mmmm." Gabrielle tilted her head and exposed her neck more to Xena.

The warrior pressed her lips more against Gabrielle's neck with the tip of her tongue rolling over the smooth skin.

The warrior-bard moaned and her right hand came up to the back of Xena's neck. "Gods," she whimpered and turned around in Xena's arms. Her fingers laced up into Xena's panther, black hair, and she pulled down her partner for a long kiss.

Xena hesitantly pulled away and held onto her friend's sides. "Slow," she reminded.

"Hades," growled the warrior-bard, "you had to mention that huh?"

"Yes." The warrior lowered her head again, her forehead leaning against Gabrielle's. "Slow is a good idea."

Gabrielle grabbed her partner's larger hands and held them. "Can we just forget about that detail for a couple of candlemarks, hmmm?" She grinned and tilted her head, she started lightly kissing Xena.

"Hmmm." Xena responded to the kissing at a slow pace. "No," she muttered between the kissing, "we… can't."

The warrior-bard pressed her tongue into Xena's and pressed her body against Xena's more.

The warrior moaned faintly but quickly grabbed her friend's wondering hands. She pulled back from the kiss and stepped back. "Later huh?" She raised an eyebrow while lacing her hands through Gabrielle's. "I promise, the wait is well worth it."

Gabrielle brought in a deep breath and nodded. "You're right." She laughed at herself and said, "I sure can't follow through with my own ideas."

Xena grinned a little. "I'll take it as a compliment."

The small warrior grinned right back. "It is."

"C'mon, let's get some sleep." The Warrior Princess nodded at the bed.

The Amazon Queen flashed back a small smile and nodded. "Sounds good." She then had a second though. "I think I'll write some."

"Yeah?" Xena squeezed her friend's hands then released them.

"Yeah." The warrior-bard headed over to the saddlebags and started milling around for her scrolls.

The Warrior Princess headed for the bathroom. "You haven't written in quite awhile," she mentioned before going in.

"I know… trying to get back into it," called back the small warrior. She found her latest scroll and her quill. She came to the bedside, dropped two new scrolls on the bed with her quill and sat down next to them. She lifted one boot at a time and unlaced them.

Xena came out of the bathroom after washing her face so her bangs were still a bit wet. She sat down in a chair next to the table. She started removing her boots as well. "Its good to see you back into writing."

The younger woman settled her boots on the floor then sat up straight. "It feels good to be back into my writing." She shook her head. "Been too long."

The Warrior Princess set her boots aside and stood up. "Gabrielle, I think you needed that small break."

"Why you say that?" The warrior-bard got up from the bed and came behind her friend. She began working the buckles.

"You needed that break to realize how much you loved writing," explained Xena. She removed her gauntlets.

The Amazon Queen paused in her unhooking of armor and said, "Distance makes the heart grow fonder."

The warrior nodded, and she sensed the buckles coming off. She stepped forward and slipped out of her armor. Turning around with the armor in her hands, she said, "And it worked like a charm." She grinned and dropped the brass armor on the table with her gauntlets. Next she started removing her arm bracers.

"Wait." Gabrielle pointed a finger at her friend as she grinned. "You were not worried for a second that I would stop being a bard." She watched Xena shake her head. "Oh gods… you knew, didn't you? Damn well knew I'd start writing again because I'd miss it so much."

Xena chuckled and held up her gauntlets, pointing them at Gabrielle. "People come full circle in life." She tossed the gauntlets onto the table. "And you so happen to go full circle a lot faster than most."

The warrior-bard turned her head back and forth in amazement. "Huh… you're good." Her hands were now on her hips.

The Warrior Princess shrugged and replied, "I just know you, Gabrielle."

"Yeah?" Gabrielle stepped closer to the taller woman. "What else you know about me?"

"That you're going to start writing right now," she stated to Gabrielle.

The small warrior laughed softly and nodded. "I will." She pressed the palm of her hands against Xena's leather-clad stomach. She stood on her tiptoes and kissed her warrior tenderly.

The older warrior returned the kiss then watched Gabrielle climbed into the bed afterwards. She grinned while studying how her friend settled into a sitting position with her scrolls and quills. So she climbed into bed and easily slipped in behind Gabrielle in a sitting position as well. Instead though, she scooted closer to Gabrielle then propped her legs up on either side.

The small warrior grinned and sat back into Xena's body as Xena rested against the headboard.  "Not bad," she commented.

Xena laughed softly and wrapped her arms loosely around her partner's waist. Her right hand, however, moved and rested on Gabrielle's bare stomach.

The Amazon Queen shivered from the warm hand caressing her stomach soothingly. She tilted her head and peered down at her scroll, trying to concentrate. She subconsciously lifted the point of her quill and started chewing on it. That sly grin slipped along her lips as her quill met the parchment. Slowly her quill glided across the parchment in a scratchy sound, words flowing out of the ink.

The Warrior Princess's smile seemed to grow in each word she saw appear on the scroll. She continued rubbing her friend's stomach lightly while watching her bard work.

For a good candlemark, the pair stay exactly like that; Gabrielle writing and Xena holding while watching.

Gabrielle's quill came to a gradually stop then came down to make a dot as the period of a sentence. Then she stopped, lowered her quill onto the scroll, and sat back into Xena.

The warrior smiled at the full scroll before lowering her head and nuzzling the Amazon Queen's neck. "Finished?"

"Uh huh." The content warrior-bard smile down at the scroll. "That was real nice."

"I know," whispered the older woman. She kissed Gabrielle's neck then lifted her head back up. "Glad to see the bard back."

"Hmmm," agreed Gabrielle with a nod. She picked up the scroll and rolled it back up. She then placed both her scrolls and quill on the night stand. She settled back into her partner's arms. "Thanks, Xena."

"For what?"

"Just always being there for me." The short warrior dropped her head back and smiled up to the older warrior.

Xena revealed a warm smile. "Always here for you, Gabrielle."

"Hmmm, I know." Gabrielle reached up and pulled down Xena's head for a long kiss.

Xena licked Gabrielle's lips at the end and lifted her head a little with a smile.

The warrior-bard smiled back and said, "I think you can call me your girlfriend."

"Oh?" teased the Warrior Princess.

"Only if you want to," whispered the small warrior.

Xena's smile fell into love. "Only if I can be yours."

"Definitely," replied Gabrielle quietly.

"Then you are mine," stated Xena in a deep voice.

Love found its way in Gabrielle's smile, and she whispered, "I love you, Xena."

"I love you too, Gabrielle." Xena locked her lips with Gabrielle's carefully and started a gentle kiss of promise.

 

Chapter Ten: A New Day

Queen Karena

 

Morning came around quickly.  Xena had watched the sunrise but nothing could entice her to move from the bed.  With a light kiss to her love’s head she had succumbed to her body’s desire just to snuggle down and resume sleeping.   She tightened her arms around her bard and let her eyes slowly close.  Her last thought was the same as her first.  Love you Gabrielle.

Gabrielle could not believe that she was awake before Xena.  This just did not happen.  But the proof was lying beneath her.  Consideration was given to surprising Xena with breakfast in bed but the thought of moving from her comfortable spot stopped that thought before it went any further.  Instead her eyes adoringly looked at her partner.  Xena looked so much more youthful when she was sleeping.  There was a peacefulness about her that was not present when they were on the road.  It was like her body knew that she was safe and let her rest completely.

Nature stopped any further musing on Gabrielle’s behalf and forced her to release her warrior pillow.  She placed a light kiss on Xena’s lips and headed off to the bathroom.   Her stomach demanded attention as well so she went with her earlier thought of bringing Xena breakfast in bed and headed to the kitchen.

“Hello, sweetie, what can I get for you this morning?” Cyrene was surprised to see Gabrielle up first.

“Morning, Mom.  Thought I would grab some breakfast and surprise your daughter.  It is a rare occurrence when I am the first one up.  She must be getting lazy in her old age.”

“Who are you calling old, bard.” Gabrielle jumped at the voice.  Spinning around she came face to face with an evilly smiling Xena. 

“Heee heee heee, Xena, I … ah … thought you were still sleeping.”  She tried to hide the blush that was creeping up her face but was unsuccessful.

“How could I stay sleeping when someone took away my nice warm,  exceptionally cozy, blanket?”  Xena could not help but tease her partner.  She was rewarded as the blush deepened on Gabrielle’s face.

“You haven’t answered my question yet, Gabrielle.”  Xena tried to close the distance between them but Gabrielle backed away.  There was something about the glint in the warrior’s eye that made her wary. They matched each other step for step.  Unfortunately for Gabrielle she was fast running out of room.

“Now, Xena, I was only joking.  You know that I don’t see you as old.  In fact, I will probably get gray hairs before you.  I mean, look at you.  Your hair is such a beautiful black.  Not a trace of gray anywhere.  Nope, not a one.  You can’t see any can you, Mom.”  Gabrielle looked pleadingly at Cyrene.  She knew her time was limited as she felt her back hit the table.  Hopefully she could get some help before Xena pounced.

Cyrene looked between the two.  It was just so nice to see them both so happy.  “Are you saying having gray hairs defines you as old.”  With a wink at her eldest daughter Cyrene passed her hands through her graying hair.

Gabrielle sighed.  “Now I see where you get your evil sense of humor from, Xena.”  That was her last comment as she dissolved into hysterics as 6 feet of warrior princess attacked Gabrielle’s ribs with her long fingers.

“Do you apologize for calling us both old, hmmm, my bard.  Do you?”  Xena didn’t give Gabrielle any time to answer as she mercilessly tickled her.  “I can’t hear you, Gabrielle, best you speak up.”

Tears were streaming down the bard’s face from the laughter.  “I’m sorry, I’m sorry, please stop. I didn’t mean it.  I was joking.”

Xena slowed her tickling to a gentle caress.  “You are forgiven.”  Wrapping her arms around Gabrielle she smiled lovingly at her partner.  “Now what do you say we get some breakfast and plan out the day.” 

Cyrene took the hint and moved back towards the stove.  “I have plenty of everything, so why don’t you two sit down and I fill up a plate each.”

They had just started tucking into the food when the back door opened.

“What does it take for a man to get some service around here?”  Standing in the doorway was the masculine version of Xena.

Cyrene rushed to the door and enveloped her only son into a bear hug.  “Toris, you are home.  My whole family is home.” 

“Heard a rumor that my sister had died.  I made my way here as quickly as I could to be with you but it seems my dead sister beat me.  How typical.  Never could beat her at anything.”  There was no animosity in his voice, just relief at seeing his sister alive.

Xena grinned back at her older brother.  The familiar teasing felt good.  “You always were a bit slow.”

Toris glared at his sister then turned to her partner. “Hello, Gabrielle.  I am truly pleased that the rumors of your death were greatly exaggerated.”  Part of him had fallen in love with the bard when he had first met her all those years ago.  If it hadn’t been for her, and Xena of course, he would have made a terrible mistake with Cortese.

Xena watched Toris quite closely.  There was something in his eyes when he looked at Gabrielle.  Well, isn’t that just great.  Someone else who is lusting after Gabrielle.  She just picks em up all over the place.    She trusted Gabrielle implicitly.  It was just the complication of it being her brother.  She had wondered last time they had met.  His eyes had followed Gabrielle all over the place.  However, she couldn’t be sure.  Admittedly, she had been too busy trying to hide the fact that her eyes followed Gabrielle all over the place.  The frustration turned into a wry smile.

Gabrielle watched her partner with amusement.  She would definitely have to ask later what had been going through her mind.  The last look was priceless.  Moving closer to Xena, she slipped her arm around her waist and let all the love she felt for the warrior show in her eyes.  Shaking her head slightly, Gabrielle lent forward and lightly kissed Xena on the lips before turning her head back to Toris.

“The stories weren’t exaggerated, Toris.  We did die on those crosses.  And it was one of the most traumatic times of my life.  I would have given anything not to have seen the pain on your sister’s face.  I thought the cell had been bad enough but that was so much worse.  But then we were both given a second chance at this life.  I believe it was our love that enabled us that chance and I don’t intend to waste it.”

Xena hugged Gabrielle so close and buried her tear-filled eyes into her partner’s hair.  “That goes both ways, my love.”  Xena whispered the comment into her loved one’s ear.  She knew that Gabrielle had heard the comment when she felt her arm squeezed.

Toris watched the interchange with some sadness but was not surprised.  Part of him had always known that Xena held Gabrielle’s heart.  That was why he had never tried to pursue anything.  The Xena he now knew was someone he didn’t want to hurt.

“I can see how your two’s love would do that.  I am just glad you are alive, Gabrielle.  And I am very glad that you are too, Xena.  I don’t want to lose another sibling.”  Toris moved towards the table and engulfed his sister and Gabrielle in a bear hug.    “Now is there any food left for me or did Gabrielle manage to polish it all off.”  The laughter relieved the tension and soon they were filling each other in on their lives since the last time they had seen each other.

“So what are your plans for the day?”  Cyrene looked between the two women.  “And does it involve that young man who is moping around the place?” 

“Ummmm … actually … I do have some ideas as to what I want to do today and they really only involved Gabrielle and me.”  Xena was uncharacteristically flustered.  She had wanted to invite Gabrielle on a picnic but didn’t want to do it in front of everyone.

“Can I help out with your friend?  There are plenty of things that need doing around the Inn.  I could use the help of another person.” Toris looked questioningly at Xena.

“That’s a lovely thought, Toris.  Part of me would love to take you up on that kind offer but I would really like the Inn to be still standing when we get back.”  Xena and Gabrielle exchanged knowing grins.

“Whatever do you mean?”  Toris quizzically looked at Xena whilst Cyrene just raised her eyebrows in confusion.

Before Xena could give her answer, Gabrielle stepped into the breach.  “Joxer has a heart of gold and he really means a lot to both of us.”  She looked around to ensure that he was not close before continuing.  She didn’t want to hurt his fragile ego at this time.  “The problem is that he is a disaster waiting to happen.  If you put him on the roof, the chances are that he will fall straight through and land on your best furniture to boot.  If you have him fixing fences, the whole lot will come down. Get him to look after animals and he will lose the lot.  If you …mffffph.”  Gabrielle had gotten on a roll and Xena did the only thing she could think of to stop her.  She shoved a piece of bread in her partner’s mouth.

“I think they get the picture, Gabrielle.”  Xena kissed the bard’s nose as an apology to offset any problems.

“No worries, Xena, I am sure there is plenty I can still get him to help me with.” Toris was absolutely sure they were exaggerating.

“Don’t say we didn’t warn you, Toris, but I do appreciate the gesture.”  Xena smiled warmly at her brother. 

Just as Gabrielle and Xena were about to head out the door to make plans for their day, Joxer wandered in. 

“Hi, warrior chums.  What are our plans for today.”  Joxer felt much better after a good night’s sleep and was looking forward to spending the day with his two bestest friends.  He grinned his trademark grin at the table and waited.

Toris was gobsmacked.  What kind of person chose to wear what Joxer was wearing.    He looked over at Xena and was sure he saw a smug smirk briefly pass across her face.  Maybe they weren’t exaggerating after all.  What had he got himself into?  It was too late to get out of this now as he could feel everyone’s eye on him.

“Hi, my name is Toris and I’m Xena’s brother.”  Toris held his hand out in the typical warrior fashion and waited for Joxer to grasp it.

“I am Joxer the Mighty.”  Unfortunately as he stepped forward to grab Toris’s arm his foot caught the edge of a chair.  The last thing Toris remembered seeing was the tip of Joxer’s helmet just before it hit him in the forehead.

Xena managed to catch Toris before he fell.  She examined the cut above his eye and decided it wasn’t serious.  “C’mon bro, wakey wakey.  Lots to do.”

His sister’s blue eyes were the first thing he focused on as he came back to consciousness.  “I will get you for this, Xena,” he whispered.
”Gabrielle did try and warn you.”  Xena’s grin got even bigger.  “Hope you enjoy your day.”

“Is he alright?  I didn’t mean to hurt him.  What can I do to make it up to him?”  Joxer was quite worried.

“He will be fine.  Of course, he did have a number of chores he was meant to do to help mother around the Inn.  I think someone should stay with him to make sure he is okay …” Xena looked up at Joxer and waited.

“I will help him.  No problems.”

“Thanks, Joxer, you are a good friend.”  Xena clapped him on the shoulder then stood up.  “Would you like a hand up, Toris, or can you manage it by yourself?”  She couldn’t help but tease her brother.

“I will be fine, thanks.  Why don’t you and Gabrielle enjoy your day while Joxer and I do all the work around here.”

“Don’t mind if we do.  Have fun.”  With that, Xena grabbed Gabrielle’s hand and strode out the door.  Gabrielle waved her hand over her shoulder as she trotted after Xena.

“So what’s the plan for the day?”  Gabrielle asked her partner.

“Well, I thought I would I invite my girlfriend on a picnic.” Xena suddenly got all shy.  “If you want to, that is.”

“I think that sounds like an absolutely excellent idea, girlfriend.”  Gabrielle could not believe the thrill that word invoked.  “Let’s go to the market and get some food.”

Gabrielle waited for her hand to be dropped but all she got was a loving smile from Xena as they walked off hand-in-hand.

 

Chapter Eleven: Trying to Fall In-Love

Red Hope

 

"So uh…" Joxer swallowed, his eyes still wide as he watched Toris bring the axe down on the wood. "You been a warrior long?"

Toris released the axe; the blade left embedded in the chopping block. "Most of my life… like Xena." He dropped his head to one side. "Why?"

"Oh, oh no reason… just wondering." The wannabe warrior took a few steps to his right and leaned against the side of the inn. "Enjoy it?"

The warrior picked up another piece of wood to chop, placing it in the center of the chopping block. "Yes, for the most part." He grabbed the axe again and lifted it high over his head. "You much of a warrior, Joxer?"

"Ah…" Joxer straightened up off the side with a proud smile plastered into place. "Of course I am." He grabbed at his sword and tried desperately to unsheathe it with grace yet the sword would hardly come out. "Come on, you stupid sword," he growled lowly while glaring at the weapon.

Toris chuckled a bit and put his axe down before leaning it against the side of the chopping block. He came over towards Joxer, watching the warrior wannabe struggling to extract his sword. "Hold on," he ordered.

Joxer growled louder this time and stopped fighting with the sword. He released the hilt and didn't really look up to Toris.

"This is how you do it." The warrior came around behind Joxer, reached around and across Joxer, and seized the sword. He pulled the sword up at a vertical angle instead of straight up like Joxer had done.

"Oh! I see it now."

Toris chuckled deeply and resheathed the sword once again. He came back around to face his friend and said, "Give it a try now."

Joxer now had a smile as he started pulling his sword out but he did it too quickly and his hand smashed into his chin. "Owe!" He dropped his sword to the ground and rubbed his chin. "Dumb thing."

Toris shook his head. "Not much of a warrior, huh?"

Joxer lowered his eyes, a sigh escaping him. "No… not really," he whispered quietly. "I'm better at healing than killing," he muttered.

Toris folded his arms together. "Good… we need more healers than killers."

Joxer raised his eyes up and locked them on Toris. "Yeah?"

"Uh huh." Toris gave a soft smile much like Xena's. "People need them more than the warriors." He paused before adding, "I'd rather save the weak than kill the strong." He turned and strolled back over to the chopping block.

The wannabe warrior furrowed his eyebrows and considered the other man's words. He looked up and asked, "A healer rather than a warrior?"

Toris nodded and picked up the axe. "Yes, much rather… I have more respect for a healer over a warrior."

Joxer was silent for several minutes, just staring at the grass in though.

Xena's brother however continued with chopping the wood, he could tell his friend was in a life changing debate with himself. He smiled though because he already knew the outcome of the debate.

The wannabe fighter suddenly looked up and called, "Toris?"

Toris glance over with a questioning look.

"Feel like taking a break?" Joxer smiled warmly as he walked over. "Can I show you this book I've had for a real long time. Has every herb known in it that can be used for healing."

The warrior dropped the axe and replied, "I'd love to, Joxer."

The smaller man smiled warmly at Toris, his eyes locked with baby blues.

Toris mirrored the smile right back.

For many seconds, the two men just studied each other without moving before one of them broke the moment.

"So where's this book?"

Joxer came out of his trance. "Oh come on, up in my room."

"Lead the way." Toris waved his hand towards the front of the tavern.

The wannabe warrior chuckled and strolled ahead with a tiny bounce in his walk and a new smile. "Its really interesting," he mentioned.

"I can't wait to see it." Toris flashed a smile and came around the front of the inn with Joxer.

 

Gabrielle's head bobbed up and down in approval. "Nice view, Xena."

The warrior came up beside her partner and gazed out across the rolling, grassy hills. "Not bad at all."  She watched for a few minutes as the breeze came along and swayed the tall grass. "Its very relaxing here."

"Mmmm, it is," agreed the bard. "Thank you."

"For?"

"Sharing this place with me." Gabrielle smiled up at her girlfriend.

The Warrior Princess revealed her own smile and leaned down to place a gentle kiss to her friend's temple. "Only with you."

The short warrior chuckled and stepped closer, wrapping her arm around Xena's waist and dropped her head down against a strong arm.

The warrior lifted her right arm and brought it behind Gabrielle's shoulders, pulling her partner in closer. "How you feeling?"

"Very happy," whispered the warrior-bard.

Xena smiled softly and lowered her head some, placing a soft kiss to Gabrielle's temple. "Me too."

The bard hadn't lost her smile as she studied the view around her. "You know though, I feel bad about Joxer."

"Mmmm yeah." The Warrior Princess tilted her head to one side and added, "But not meant to be."

The Amazon Queen nodded her agreement. "I just hope he'll be okay."

"Knowing Joxer, he'll be just fine," whispered the warrior.

"Mmmm true." Gabrielle then looked up at her warrior. "So what did you get for lunch in the market?"

Suddenly a devilish grin broke out across Xena's expression.

 

Toris closed the book slowly and glanced over the front of it again.

Joxer squirmed a bit next to the warrior, he was sitting beside Toris on the foot of his bed. "Pretty interesting huh?"

"It really is actually," commented Xena's brother. "And you know how to make every medicine in here?"

The warrior wannabe's eyes widen. "Oh yeah, pretty much." He smiled brightly. "I just pick it up for some reason."

"For some reason?" Toris held the book out. "Sounds like a good reason to get into it, Joxer."

"You really think so?" Joxer took the book back carefully and held it in his lap.

"Yeah, I really think so." Toris stood up and walked over to the wall, and he leaned against it right next to the door. "You should give it a try."

Joxer smiled happily and said quietly, "Maybe I will." He peered up at Xena's brother. "Thank you, Toris."

"You're more than welcome, Joxer."

The warrior wannabe fiddled with his book a bit before saying, "You know… you can call me Jox if ya want." He shyly smiled at the other man. "All my good friends do."

Toris grinned a bit and replied, "I'll remember that."

"Yeah well… you know you're a good friend now." Joxer was still fiddling around with his book, his eyes glued to the book.

Toris's grin shifted more into a warm smile. "One of mine too… Jox."

The warrior wannabe looked up again and saw the smile; he instantly mirrored it back.

 

Chapter Twelve: Love Wins Out

Queen Karena

 

Gabrielle looked up at Xena quizzically.  Whatever could she be up to that has caused such a diabolical smile to ease across that beautiful face?

“Are you sure you want to know, Gabrielle?” Xena purred out the question as she slowly advanced on her bard.  Her eyes had darkened to a deep blue and seem to look right into Gabrielle’s soul.

“Ummm, yeah, umm, I … uhhh … do.”  Gabrielle couldn’t help but stammer out the words.  The look on Xena’s face was causing tremors to race through her body.

“That’s not what your eyes are telling me, my love.”  Xena’s voice was barely above a whisper but Gabrielle heard the words quite clearly.  As Xena closed the distance between them, the bard was finding it very difficult to breathe.  Her eyes shuttered closed as Xena’s hand softly stroked the side of her face, her body automatically leaning into the hand.

“I love you, Gabrielle, with all that I am.”  The words caressed the bard’s ears as Xena’s lips lightly brushed her lips.  Neither woman could control the moan that automatically followed this contact. 

The bard slowly pulled away from Xena and smiled lovingly at the warrior, her eyes lightened by the unshed tears.  “I love you too, Xena.  You are part of my soul.”  She stepped back into Xena’s space, placed her hand behind Xena’s head, and pulled her face down for another kiss.  There was nothing light or teasing about this one.  When the need to breathe overtook their other senses, they slowly pulled apart.

“Hmm, you are seriously good at that, my warrior.”  Gabrielle lowered her head against her partner’s chest and listened to the rapidly beating heartbeat.

“You are not too bad yourself, my bard.”  Xena tightened her arms around her love and just breathed in the smell that was so distinctly Gabrielle.  It just felt so good to finally be able to just hold her in her arms without fear.

Gently pulling her partner down, Xena leaned back against a nearby tree and wrapped her arms around Gabrielle.  The bard happily snuggled back into Xena and peacefully watched the sunlight dance off the lake. They gently whispered their love to each other and their hopes for the future.  A light rumbling interrupted the pair causing Xena to stretch out and grab the picnic basket.

“Now, lets see what we have in the basket to feed such a hungry monster.”  Xena began pulling out the bread, the different cheeses, an assortment of meats, and some olives.  Gabrielle was tempted to backhand her mate but decided to pounce on the food instead.  Xena had gotten some surprises for Gabrielle but decided to leave them in the basket for now.  She did remove the wine before quickly closing the lid. 

“Something else in the basket, huh, Warrior?”  Gabrielle looked over her shoulder at Xena.

“Whatever makes you think that?”  Xena tried for the innocent look but failed miserably.

“You closed the lid.  If there was nothing else in there, you wouldn’t have bothered.”  Gabrielle looked smugly at her partner.

Xena sighed deeply.  She knew she was caught.  Trust Gabrielle to be so logical.  “Alright, there are some other things in the basket, but you can’t have them until you have eaten something healthy.”

Gabrielle tossed up whether to push the issue or eat what was currently in front of her.  Her stomach won the argument so she smiled sweetly at her warrior then proceeded to eat everything in front of her at an alarming rate.

“Slow down, Gabrielle, it’s not going to go anywhere.” Xena was constantly amazed at both the speed and the amount that Gabrielle managed to pack her food away.

“U wnnngt mddy shhrpffrz,” mumbled Gabrielle as she chewed on another mouthful.

“Hold it right there, swallow that mouthful, and say that last comment again.”  Xena couldn’t keep the amusement out of her voice.

Gabrielle made a big point of swallowing her mouthful then turned her head towards Xena and slowly enunciated each word.  “I said I want my surprise.”

Xena burst out laughing.  “Eat away then, my bard.  Never let it be said that I came in between a woman and her surprise.”  Xena quickly grabbed some food before it was all devoured and contentedly watched her loved one clean up the rest.  Her mind drifted to where they were heading next.  She didn’t have anything against her partner’s hometown.  They just didn’t seem to like her very much.  Well, Lila did.  Xena smiled warmly as she thought back to the surprise birthday they had thrown for Gabrielle last year.  Nothing ever goes smoothly when my bard is involved.’

“What are you smiling at, my love?”  Even saying that made Gabrielle feel warm inside.  It just felt so right.

“I was remembering the last time we were here.”

Gabrielle smiled warmly back.  “It was lovely of you to throw a surprise birthday party for me, even if we did have to solve a mystery first.  But as that is what we do best it probably was quite fitting.”  The thoughts of her birthday flowed on to Lila.  Without knowing this was where her warrior had started, Gabrielle started thinking about their upcoming visit to Potidaea.  She knew it was important for her parents to see that she was alive, but she had to admit she wasn’t looking forward to the visit at all.

“Could we make the visit to my parents reasonably short?  We do have to go to the Amazons and let Chilappa know that we are alive as well?”

Xena could not believe what she was hearing.  Was Gabrielle mind-reading now?  Maybe she is doing this for me?  I must let her know that it is okay to stay as long as she needs to.  I will cope as long as I am with her.  Taking a deep breath, she verbalized her thoughts.  “They are your parents, Gabrielle.  You can visit as long as you like.  Don’t feel you have to leave because of me.  We will be there together, and that is all that matters for me.”

Turning around, Gabrielle took Xena’s face in her hands.  “Thank you for that offer but you are not the reason. Well, not completely.”

Xena raised her eyebrow quizzically at Gabrielle.

“I know my parents don’t like you much.  Well, actually, I think it is more my father than my mother.  She is just not very good at standing up to him.  He blames you for all that has happened to me since I have been with you.”  Gabrielle quickly put her hand across Xena’s lips.  “Don’t you dare say that he has every right to feel that way.  I know you, Xena.  You want to take the blame for everything bad that has happened to me.  But it is not your fault.  I made the choice to go with you and I don’t regret one moment of it because it led me here, with you.  You are everything I have wanted in a partner and just being able to say that I am yours makes me all warm inside.”  Gabrielle lent forward a laid a gentle kiss on Xena’s lips before continuing.

“My parents will never understand my love for you.  I am sure Lila thinks we are already lovers so nothing will change there.  I need to tell them I am alive and I do want to do that face to face.  However, I have no intention of hiding my love for you. It has taken us too long to get to this place, and no way am I going back to us just being good friends.  If I want to cuddle with you, like this, then I intend to.  I can already see my parents disapproving looks so I know one night will be quite sufficient otherwise I, or them, may say something that we all would regret. So, its not because of you, its because of us and that is the most important thing as far as I am concerned.  Now, hand over the basket so I can see what else is in it.” 

Xena just sat there stunned.  ‘What have I done to deserve her love.  Obviously something monumental that I am not aware of.  Before Gabrielle had time to grab the basket, Xena engulfed her in a bear hug.  “We will stay as long or as short as you like, my bard.”  There was so much more she wanted to say, but she just couldn’t find the words.

Gabrielle, who was very versed in ‘Xenaspeak’ knew what the warrior was trying to say.  Leaning in to kiss her, she softly spoke the words, “I love you too, Xena.”   Xena closed the distance between their lips and let her soul finish the conversation.

As she gently laid her bard back onto the grass, her kiss deepened to one of passion.  Gabrielle quickly met the intensity of the kiss and pulled Xena tighter to her body.   Both sensed that neither was going to stop this time.  Xena had to be positive that this was what her bard wanted.  “Are you sure, Gabrielle?”  The whispered words only seemed to inflame the bard more.  She pressed her body deeper into her warrior’s, moaning at the glorious feelings that this small act incited.

“Stop now, Xena, and you could seriously regret it.”  Gabrielle’s voice had deepened with desire and left no doubt in the warrior’s mind that this was something that Gabrielle definitely wanted.     What Gabrielle wants, Gabrielle gets’ was her last coherent thought as their desires took over.

 

“Hey, Jox, you want to pass me up the hammer?”  Toris smiled down at the young man. 

“Sure, Tor.  Shall I bring it up?”  Joxer had the hammer in his hand and was making his way towards the ladder.

“No, I think it would be safer for both of us if you just pass it to me from the bottom.  You may be good at medicines, but you can’t fix yourself up.”

They had been exchanging this hammer for most of the afternoon.  For some reason, Toris couldn’t bring himself to leave the hammer up on the roof.  The first time Joxer had tried to deliver it to him he had slipped on the third rung and fallen down to the ground with a loud thud.  Toris could still remember the thundering in his heart as he had raced down the ladder to make sure Jox was okay.  From then on, Toris had made the trip up and down the ladder to get or give the hammer to his friend.  It should have been a chore, but it never felt that way.

Joxer laughed at his friend’s teasing as he handed him the hammer.  He could feel the tingling continuing after their fingers had stopped touching.   What had started out to be a bad morning had turned out to be a great day.  He stopped looking at his hand and shyly looked upwards to see his friend smiling at him.  Toris hadn’t moved back up the ladder and it was if he was unaware that he had the hammer in his hand.  With a shake of his head, he laughed at himself and climbed back up the ladder.  A job that should have only taken a candlemark had now stretched into two and was no closer to being fixed.  Strangely enough, he just didn’t care.

 

Cyrene couldn’t believe how painfully slow this roof repair was.  Deciding that she needed to check on her son, she stuck her head out of the window in time to see the exchange of the hammer.  Silently, she retreated back into the Inn and smiled to herself.  Love is definitely in the air today.  I think both of my children have found happiness.  I think I will make a special meal tonight.  Whistling to herself, she headed off to the kitchen to start planning the menu.  She was pretty sure that Xena and Gabrielle would head off tomorrow and who knows when she would see the pair again.  Therefore, nutbread would definitely be on the menu.  And those red dumpling things that Xena likes so much.  I won’t be making radish stew for Joxer, that is for sure.  There are some things that just shouldn’t be made!’  She couldn’t help giggling to herself as she remembered the tale that Gabrielle had spun about that particular event.  It was good that they could laugh at themselves.   Secretly she was pleased they hadn’t come visiting at that time.  The last thing an inn needs is people who don’t look the healthiest.

 

“Xena?”

“Hmmm, Gabrielle.”

“Can I have my surprise now?”

“What, again?  I am not sure I have the energy at the moment …”   Xena moved quickly in anticipation of the elbow in the ribs and grabbed the basket.  “You wouldn’t hit a woman with food, now would you?”  The innocent look did not last long before they both burst into laughter.

Gabrielle snuggled back down into her warrior pillow.   It felt even better when they were both naked, something she had not thought possible.

“Close your eyes, Gabrielle.  And no peaking.”  Once they were closed Xena opened the lid of the basket and pulled out a strawberry tart.  Breaking off a little piece she touched it to her lover’s lips.  Gabrielle’s tongue scooted out and grabbed the offering. 

“Hmmmm mmmmm mmmm, this tastes almost as good as you.”  Gabrielle suddenly blushed when she realized what she had said.  She didn’t take it back, however, because it was true.  Plus she enjoyed Xena’s delighted laughter.

“You are incorrigible, my bard.”  Xena broke off a piece of the tart and nibbled on it.  “This does taste nice, though.  Want some more.”

“You even have to ask?”  Gabrielle looked at Xena disbelieving.  Of course, Xena had another piece in her hand headed for the bard’s mouth so she just smiled and accepted the peace offering.  It didn’t take them long to polish off the tart.

“We should be heading back before mom wonders where we are and sends the boys out to look for us.”  The regret was quite evident in her voice.  This afternoon had been truly special.

“Sad to say, I agree with you.  The last thing I want is for Joxer to see me in a state of undress.”  Gabrielle slowly eased herself up off the warrior.

“I would be more worried about my brother, personally.  He hasn’t seen me naked since I was 6 and I don’t want that to change anytime soon.”  Xena allowed herself to be hauled up by her partner and they began the hunt for their various items of clothing.  Once they were dressed, Xena whistled for Argo and they headed back towards the Inn.

 

Toris had just hammered in the last nail when he saw his sister and Gabrielle ride back into town.  He waved to them before descending down the steps.  “Xena and Gabrielle are back,” he mouthed to Joxer who nodded in understanding.

Together they walked back into the Inn and headed for the bathroom to wash up.  Cyrene watched them as they walked past, almost shoulder to shoulder.  Her smile deepened when the front door opened to reveal her two girls.  Their timing was perfect.  Dinner was just ready.

The meal past quickly as each talked about their day.

“I don’t think Joxer will be coming with us.”  Xena whispered the words in Gabrielle’s ear as she leaned over to grab some desert.

“I think you are right, my warrior,” the bard whispered back.

Xena decided it was time to make their intentions clear. “We will be heading out tomorrow to go to Potidaea as we need to let Gabrielle’s parents know we are still alive.  Then we will be heading off to the Amazons because they also need to know.”

Cyrene sadly smiled at her daughters.  She had guessed correctly but part of her still did not want them to go.  “I understand your need to leave but I am going to miss you terribly.  Please try and get back a bit sooner next time, huh.  And no dying in between times.  Promise me.”

Walking around the table, Xena bent down by her mother and embraced her in a loving hug.  “That’s a deal.” 

Joxer realized it was time to make a decision.  One look at Toris and he knew there was no competition.  This may not go anywhere but there was definitely something there and it deserved a chance to grow.

“If you don’t mind, warrior chums, I may ahh stay  ahh here for a while.  I ahhh spoke to the village healer and he needs an assistant.  His son has had to go away for a few moons.”  Joxer knew he was stammering but he couldn’t seem to help himself.

“That’s fine, Joxer.  I think that is a great idea.”  Xena rescued her friend.  “I am sure my family will keep an eye on you, won’t you Toris?”  The tenseness in the knee beside gave away the fact that Gabrielle was trying her hardest not to giggle.

“Yes, we will, Xena.  Now, why don’t you two head off to bed.  I am sure you will want an early start in the morning.” Cyrene gave her a hard stare.  She knew exactly what her daughter was up to, no matter how innocent she tried to look.  And Gabrielle was no better.  She could see the young bard’s shoulders shaking from here.  Cyrene’s look was the last straw and Xena burst out laughing.  Gabrielle followed moments later and they collapsed onto each other.

“Oh, ha ha ha, sister.  You obviously didn’t forget to take your happy pills this morning.”  Toris grumped at his sister.  Joxer lightly touched him on his shoulder and smiled.

“It’s okay, Toris.  They tease me all the time.  I know they love me, really.”   Joxer smiled over at his friends as well.  There was no animosity in his look.

“You are so right, Joxer.  We do love you.  Now come and give us a group hug.  You won’t be up before we leave.” Gabrielle had to grin at the pained expression that slid across Xena’s face.  Her warrior was really not into group hugs at all.  They got up to reduce the distance Joxer had to travel.  He was still Joxer, after all.

Taking Gabrielle’s hand, Xena headed off to her room.  They stopped at the top of the stairs, and looked down.  Joxer and Toris were still sitting shoulder to shoulder with her mother sitting opposite them as they talked softly amongst themselves.  The occasional laughter traveled up the stairs.

“C’mon, my bard, we have a long day tomorrow.  We need to get some sleep.”

“Sleep, oh yeah, you will sleep, but not right away.”  Gabrielle pinched her warrior’s butt then ran the rest of the way to the bedroom.

“Yep, truly incorrigible.”  Xena had to smile before running after her.

 

And well, we all know what happens from here…

 

The End



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