Title: Life’s a Bitch, Then You Fall in Love

Author: Hergerbabe

Fandom: Xena

Pairings: Cupid/Strife, Ares/Apollo, Eris/Auto

Rating: NC-17

Category: total AU, first times

Archive: AJCS

Disclaimer: Not mine ::sigh:: but I really think they’d be happier if they were

Warnings: Underage sex

Sequel/Series: Prequel to ‘Life Sucks, But Love’s Great’

Notes: Set in an American highschool so don’t expect Greek Gods, also, no Joxer in this one, this is mostly a C/S fic

For everyone who was so lovely about Life Sucks, luv ya guys! And especially for Christine, for encouraging me to post Life Sucks, and demanding this prequel :) and all the beta’ing, Strife dipped in whipped cream for you, hon!

 

Life’s a Bitch, Then You Fall in Love

 

Life sucked. Life sucked rocks. Life sucked ass in a big way! Strife sighed, his life just had to be the suckiest of all time.

 

His parents were gone. Well okay, they’d died, but he fully intended on blaming them anyway! If they hadn’t gone off on holiday without him in the first place, none of this would be happening! He wouldn’t be at this fucking school, getting his ass kicked.

 

But then, his parents had liked doing that; fucking off and leaving him for months at a time. Maybe if they hadn’t he would feel something, other than just being numb.

 

Of course it would be nice if he was numb now, maybe he wouldn’t be able to feel the bruises developing from the latest kicking the jock squad had just given him.

 

Strife grinned suddenly at the thought of being able to get Hercules back. It helped that they all lived in the same house now. His uncle Zeus had just married Hercules’ mom. His cousins Ares and Eris were *so* not happy about that!

 

Strife dragged himself up off the floor with a small curse of pain. Revenge was going to be so fucking sweet!

 

On his way out of the locker room, he caught sight of Gabrielle and Xena and sighed. There was just no way Gabrielle would say yes if he asked her to the Spring Dance. They glanced his way and started laughing. Flushing with frustration and anger, he turned abruptly and walked straight into solid chest. Strife fell on his ass.

 

“Well, that topped off a fucking *great* day,” he muttered.

 

“Sorry, man.”

 

Strife looked up. Cupid had his hand out, so he took it and let himself be hauled to his feet and back up against that solid chest. Now why couldn’t he be built like Cupid or Ares, or even Hercules? Even at sixteen they were powerhouses of muscle, whereas he was a skinny runt.

 

“You okay?”

 

Strife started and realised he was still holding Cupid’s hand. He pulled away hurriedly. “Uh, yeah sure, sorry,” he muttered.

 

“No problem,” Cupid smiled and Strife swallowed nervously. He walked away quickly, unnerved by the feeling of Cupid’s eyes on him.

 

“Fuck!” Strife swore to himself. One unobtainable crush was quite enough right now. And for Christ’s sake, Cupid? The guy was straight as an arrow! Strife hurried to his next class, trying not to think of Cupid’s piercing eyes.

 

@>*~

 

Strife lounged on Eris’ bed reading his science notes. Eris was at her desk writing an English assignment.

 

“What in hell is this Mendel guy on about?!” Strife sighed.

 

“Dude, that’s the easy part of genetics,” Eris laughed. “Do you want my notes?”

 

“Yeah, they might make a bit more sense, seeing as how you actually listen in class,” Strife grinned at his cousin. “Hey, where’s ‘Res?”

 

Eris shrugged, “Out somewhere. Dad’s gonna have kittens if he’s late for dinner again!”

 

“Your dad’s way harsh on him, I’m not surprised he stays out sometimes,” Strife commented.

 

“Yeah, well, having the big jerk around, with his good grades, being in the football team and his ‘I can do no wrong’ smile, isn’t helping!” Eris snorted.

 

“I have plans for Jerkules,” Strife smirked.

 

“I’ll bet you do,” she chuckled, “That shiner’s developing nicely!”

 

Strife frowned, “Yeah, the fucking asshole and his little buddy, Hunter, cornered me in the locker room.”

 

“Where was ‘Res?” Eris asked.

 

“I don’t know,” Strife shrugged.

 

“You talking about me?” Ares poked his head through the door.

 

“I was wondering where you were when the jerk and his bud were pounding the crap out of Strife today,” Eris said quietly.

 

Ares stepped into the room and shut the door behind him. He walked over to the bed and lifted Strife’s chin. “Son of a *bitch*!” he swore.

 

“Chill, ‘Res. I spoke to Rita. Jerkules will be getting a nice dinner of doggy chow,” Strife laughed. Rita was the housekeeper and had been with the family for years, she had practically brought up Strife’s mother and his uncle, and then done the same for Ares and Eris when their mother had disappeared, and Strife whenever he was dumped by his parents, and after they’d died.

 

Ares smiled, “Good one! Sorry I wasn’t there, man.”

 

“You can’t be there for me all the time, dude, don’t worry about it,” Strife said quietly.

 

Ares sighed and sat down on the bed. “I know, but I feel bad.”

 

“Well don’t, I’ve had worse,” Strife said firmly. Ares nodded. Strife knew his cousin would like to argue the point further, but that he knew Strife wouldn’t listen.

 

“Any progress with Gabrielle?” Ares asked quietly.

 

Strife snorted, “Yeah, right. Her and Xena were laughing at me, especially when Cupid knocked me on my ass!”

 

“Cupid?” Ares frowned again.

 

“Oh that was an accident, man. Ya know, for a jock, Cupid isn’t too bad,” Strife commented.

 

“Actually, I get the feeling he doesn’t much like the rest of the football team, or any of that lot,” Eris commented.

 

“Really? What do you mean?” Strife asked, intensely curious all of a sudden.

 

“His parents are real strict, we’re talking majorly harsh. Like he has to go home straight after school, the only time he’s allowed out is for football practise and matches,” Ares explained.

 

“He never goes out?” Strife gaped.

 

“Nope, never. He’s not even allowed a girlfriend,” Ares shook his head.

 

“What about a boyfriend?” Strife muttered.

 

“What?” Ares frowned.

 

“Um, nothing!” Strife blinked rapidly.

 

“Dude?” Ares raised an eyebrow at him.

 

Strife sighed, “He’s just, you know, real nice and cute.” He blushed.

 

“Yeah, I guess. Not my type though,” said Ares thoughtfully.

 

“Not your type?! Oh please, he’s blond and buff, just like a certain Mister Sun I could mention,” Strife smirked at his cousin’s blush.

 

“Yeah, well, Apollo is out of my league so let’s just leave it, shall we?” Ares muttered.

 

“He is so *not* out of your league, dude, an’ he is camper than a row of pink tents!” Strife chuckled.

 

“Whatever,” Ares said with a small grin.

 

“Boys, study?” Eris raised an eyebrow.

 

“Yeah, yeah,” Strife groaned.

 

Part 2

 

“I wouldn’t go to the Spring Dance with you if I had leprosy and couldn’t get anyone else on earth to look at me!”

 

Strife flushed and stared after Gabrielle as she walked away laughing.

 

“Man, that was harsh,” a quiet voice said behind him.

 

Strife swung round and flushed a deeper red, groaning inwardly. “Laugh it up all you want, Love. Just fuck off and leave me alone!” Strife snapped. He stalked off before Cupid could reply, swearing under his breath.

 

Two sets of humiliation in one day. Could his life get *any* suckier? Strife headed for his secret hiding place, he didn’t feel like dealing with anyone at lunch right now, besides, he wasn’t hungry.

 

He slipped into the library, which was pretty much deserted as always and he walked to the back to a small, almost hidden area of shelving that no one else seemed to know about. He sat down next to a stack and put his head on his knees.

 

What the hell was going on? He’d had a crush on Gabrielle for a while, even though she was a bitch. And while she’d just humiliated him, he found he didn’t and couldn’t give a fuck about that, just the fact that Cupid had been there.

 

Over the past couple of weeks, he’d seen an awful lot of Cupid. Every time he turned around, Cupid seemed to be there. And it was driving him nuts, the guy was gorgeous, and so far beyond his reach it wasn’t even funny. Not only that, he had a quiet, strong presence that made Strife feel decidedly nervous. Well, it made his heart pound anyway.

 

It was almost as though the other boy was watching him. But why?

 

“Wow, I didn’t even know this was here.”

 

“Fuck!” Strife jumped, clutching his chest in shock.

 

“Sorry,” said Cupid quietly.

 

“What are you… did you follow me?!” Strife exclaimed.

 

Cupid looked down and he shrugged, “Yeah, I guess.”

 

Strife frowned, what the fuck? “Why?”

 

“I, um, just wanted to see if you were okay,” Cupid said hesitantly, “And to tell you that I wasn’t laughing at you, you know. I thought Gabrielle was a stupid bitch for turning you down.”

 

Strife blinked, “I… what?!”

 

Cupid flushed, “I mean, I… well, she was unnecessarily rude.”

 

“So, you came to find me to tell me you weren’t laughing?” Strife asked. Cupid nodded. “Why? I mean, why bother?”

 

Cupid frowned, “Well, I, uh… Because you’re a nice guy, and I know you’ve been through a hard time recently. I didn’t want you to think I’m like the others, you know?”

 

Strife nodded slowly, “How’d you know?”

 

“Huh?” Cupid frowned.

 

“That I’ve had a hard time?”

 

“I heard. I’m real sorry about…” Cupid shuffled uncomfortably.

 

“Yeah,” Strife stared in confusion at the blond, not entirely sure how he could know about his parents. No one else did, well, of course except Ares, Eris and Hercules. “Um, do ya want to sit down?”

 

Cupid brightened and smiled, making Strife feel a little breathless.

 

“Sure,” Cupid nodded and sat with him.

 

@>*~

 

Strife walked home slowly, still buoyant from lunchtime. He and Cupid hadn’t talked much, in fact there had been a lot of awkward silences. But still, the fact that Cupid seemed to give a shit about his feelings, had sought him out to check on him. That was worth a lot to Strife.

 

“So?” Eris asked, when he walked into her room.

 

“What do you think?” he said quietly.

 

“Oh, I’m sorry, Strife. Was she really bitchy?” Eris grimaced ruefully.

 

“Yeah, but you know what? I don’t care!” Strife plonked himself down on her bed with a grin.

 

“Really?” Eris raised an eyebrow.

 

“Yup!” Strife smiled at her confusion.

 

“And this would maybe have something to do with a certain blond stud?” she grinned suddenly.

 

“Maybe,” Strife grinned back.

 

She nodded, “Cool.”

 

“Yeah, he’s real nice, ya know?” he smiled dreamily, much to Eris’ amusement.

 

Ares walked in. “Hey guys, you all up for a night at E20?” he glanced at the two, “What? What’d I miss?”

 

“Strife mooning over Cupid,” Eris chuckled.

 

“I did not moon!” Strife objected loudly.

 

Eris snorted,” Oh, please, you went all dreamy!” Strife flushed and pulled a face at her.

 

Ares frowned slightly. “Be careful, Strife. He seems nice enough, but he’s still a jock, being gay is not an option.”

 

Strife crossed his arms defensively. “I know that!” he snapped, “I don’t have any illusions, but a guy can dream, can’t he?”

 

“Yeah,” Ares smiled gently, “I just don’t want you getting hurt, okay?”

 

Strife ducked his head. “Yeah. Sorry I snapped.”

 

Ares patted his shoulder. “So, you two want to go out?”

 

“Yeah, sounds cool,” Eris grinned. “Apollo wouldn’t happen to be there tonight, would he?”

 

Ares flushed lightly, “Yeah, he asked if I was going to be there, so I said yes.”

 

“Obviously,” Strife snorted, “That’s cool. Do you reckon he’s interested?”

 

Ares shrugged, “Who knows, he’s like, five years older than us.”

 

“Yeah, but you look older,” said Eris.

 

“We both do,” Ares replied.

 

“I’m not sure whether or not to take that as an insult,” Eris laughed. Ares just smirked at her.

 

Part 3

 

The E20 was a bright, cheery place with a friendly mix of gay and straight customers and staff.

 

Strife spotted Apollo quickly, surrounded as usual by a bunch of admirers, affectionately termed the Pollyboys. He pointed Ares in the right direction, chuckling as his cousin drifted slowly over.

 

“Shall we get a drink?” he asked Eris.

 

“Definitely! Who’s the new guy?” Eris whistled appreciatively.

 

Strife looked over at the drinks counter, “Ooh, cute, think he’s straight?”

 

“Oh, I hope so,” Eris grinned. “How do I look?”

 

“Like you have to ask?” Strife laughed, “Gorgeous, as always.”

 

“Why thank you, kind sir,” Eris smirked. “Let’s go.”

 

“What can I get ya?” the man asked with a smile at Eris.

 

“Two cokes, please,” Eris smiled back.

 

“Coming right up.”

 

“You’re new, aren’t you?” she asked.

 

“Yeah, name’s Auto, how ya doin’?”

 

“Just great thanks,” Eris grinned, “I’m Eris, this is my cousin, Strife.”

 

“Nice to meet you,” Auto nodded.

 

Strife took his coke and wandered away so Eris and Auto could chat each other up. He sat down at a table and glanced over to Ares, just in time to see Apollo yank him into a hard kiss. He blinked in surprise, Apollo sure didn’t hang around!

 

Oh well, good for Ares. Strife grinned to himself and settled back to watch. Apollo and Ares were getting pretty hot and heavy, if they didn’t watch it, they’d get thrown out. Then Apollo stood abruptly and dragged Ares out.

 

Strife laughed, he had a feeling Ares wouldn’t be making it home that night. He looked back up at the bar. Auto and Eris were talking animatedly, in between Auto serving drinks. Strife smiled to himself. He wondered how she did it. He wished he had a bit more confidence to just talk to someone like that.

 

Strife didn’t mind just sitting on his own. He just sipped his coke and watched people, only slightly envious of the couples. Later, Eris tapped him on the shoulder.

 

“Hey, you want to go?” she asked.

 

“Yeah, sure,” he smiled, “Any luck?”

 

Eris grinned, “I’m seeing him Saturday.”

 

“Cool,” Strife pinched her affectionately.

 

“Sorry I left you on your own,” she slipped an arm round his waist on their way out.

 

“S’okay,” he hugged her. “Ares got lucky,” he commented.

 

“Yeah,” Eris said quietly.

 

Strife frowned, “What? Aren’t you happy?”

 

Eris shrugged, “I guess, but I was kind of hoping Apollo wouldn’t go for him.”

 

“Why?” Strife asked.

 

“I don’t know,” she sighed, “There’s just something about him I don’t like.”

 

Strife frowned contemplatively. “I guess I hadn’t really thought about it.”

 

“Well, I could be wrong,” she said quietly, “Maybe I’m just being over-protective.”

 

Strife chuckled, “Isn’t that the brother’s job?”

 

Eris made a rude noise and slapped him playfully.

 

@>*~

 

“Well, shit,” Strife muttered. Talk about déja vu! “Look guys, it wasn’t my fault,” he stared at Hercules and Iolaus pleadingly.

 

“Yeah, sure, Payne, we believe you!” Hercules smirked, raising his fist. Strife flinched back.

 

“Strong, Hunter, don’t you have somewhere to be?”

 

Hercules pulled back and looked up, “Ah, come on, Cupe. He’s *so* asking for it.”

 

Cupid raised an eyebrow and Hercules sighed, walking off with Iolaus. Strife frowned in confusion.

 

“What was all that about?” Strife whispered.

 

“Hercules knows how I feel about bullying, he wouldn’t dare while I’m here,” Cupid said quietly.

 

Strife blinked in shock, “You really are a nice guy, aren’t you?”

 

Cupid gave him a small smile, “You don’t have to sound so surprised.”

 

“I, um, well, sorry,” Strife spluttered.

 

Cupid grinned, “That was a joke.”

 

Strife smiled, his heart was beating uncomfortably fast, but he wasn’t sure if it was left over from Hercules about to pound him, or from Cupid’s smile. “Yeah, course.”

 

“You okay?” Cupid asked. Strife nodded. “What was that about?”

 

“Oh, Jerkules objected to having dog food for dinner,” Strife muttered.

 

“Huh?” Cupid frowned.

 

“Oh, Rita, she’s like our nanny, she made Herc’s dinner with dog food when I told her about the last beating, he just found out,” Strife explained.

 

Cupid’s lips twitched, “Dog food?” He snorted. Strife frowned in bemusement, then grinned when Cupid burst out laughing. “Jerkules, I’ll have to remember that one!”

 

They grinned at each other almost stupidly for a couple of minutes, then Strife cleared his throat nervously.

 

“Well, um, I’ve got a class now. Thanks again.”

 

“Wait!” Cupid said quickly. Strife paused and raised his eyebrows. “History?” Strife nodded. “Yeah, me too. We could, uh walk together?”

 

Strife blinked, “Um, sure.”

 

They walked to class together in awkward silence. Surreptitiously, Strife let Cupid go in ahead, so it didn’t look like they were together. He didn’t want to hurt the guy’s rep.

 

Cupid gave him a tiny smile as he walked past him to sit down. Strife came to the conclusion that it was definitely Cupid that made his heart pound.

 

Part 4

 

When Strife got home, the place was in chaos. He quickly found his cousins.

 

“What’s going on?” he asked in confusion.

 

“We’re moving out,” Eris said quietly.

 

“Huh?” Strife shook his head.

 

“’Ris and I are going to live in the guesthouse. There’s only two bedrooms, but the couch turns into a bed, do you want to come too?” Ares asked.

 

“Hell yeah!” Strife exclaimed, “I ain’t livin’ here without you two!”

 

Ares grinned, “Good!”

 

“So, what’s the deal?” Strife asked with a frown.

 

“I had a fight with Alcmene about Hercules,” Ares muttered, “Guess who dad sided with?”

 

Strife pulled a face, “Shit, that sucks, dude!”

 

“Yeah, I know!”

 

Strife helped his cousins move all their gear into the guesthouse, but left most of his own behind, he’d just sleep and hang there. He could leave his stuff at the main house. His uncle Zeus was pretty good to him, even though Strife knew it was because he felt bad about his mom. He definitely got away with a lot more than his cousins.

 

@>*~

 

“This is nice, ya know,” Strife commented, lounging back on the couch. He’d gotten used to living between the two houses after a couple of weeks.

 

“Sure beats living with the jerk!” Ares laughed.

 

“So, ‘Res, how’s it going with ‘Pol?” Strife asked.

 

“S’okay,” Ares said quietly.

 

“Yeah, you sure? You been walking awful funny recently,” Strife smirked.

 

Ares flushed and cleared his throat. “Yeah, well he’s uh, very enthusiastic.”

 

“I’ll bet!” Strife snorted. “You going to the drive-in special with him?”

 

“Yeah. I think everyone’s going, aren’t they?” Ares smiled.

 

“Yeah, Cupe said his parents are even letting him go,” Strife replied.

 

“’Cupe’?” Ares raised an eyebrow.

 

Strife flushed, “Uh, yeah. We talk sometimes.  He’s a nice guy.”

 

“Yeah, I guess,” Ares said warily.

 

“Yeah, yeah, I know, ‘be careful’. Don’t worry, dude, I know nothing’s going to happen,” Strife sighed, “I just… I just like him.”

 

“I know,” Ares squeezed his shoulder gently.

 

“I take it Eris is going to the drive-in with Auto?” Strife asked.

 

“Yeah. He seems nice. ‘Ris certainly likes him a lot,” Ares grinned.

 

“Yeah,” Strife grinned back.

 

@>*~

 

“Strife! Come on! What are you doing in there?” Eris yelled.

 

Strife stared into the mirror and sighed. He spiked his hair up a bit more and sighed again. What *was* he doing? He probably wouldn’t even see Cupid there, he’d be hanging with the jock squad.

 

“I’m comin’, I’m comin’,” he called out.

 

Auto and Eris were taking him, but he suspected he’d be spending a lot of time alone. Ares was with Apollo. It didn’t take them long to get there and find a space. Strife left them to it and wandered over to the snack shack to get a drink and some popcorn.

 

He didn’t want to disturb the two couples, but he was going to be so bored. The movies weren’t his thing. The only reason he was there really, was because he knew Cupid would be.

 

He spotted Apollo’s car and drifted in that direction, slowing when he realised it was rocking slightly. He couldn’t quite hold back a smirk. Oh well, free show, why not?

 

Strife positioned himself carefully and watched. Ares and Apollo were already in the back seat, kissing voraciously. Ares wasn’t wrong about Apollo being enthusiastic! He had his hand down the front of Ares’ pants, moving roughly.

 

Strife bit back a moan and squirmed, pulling his shirt down over his crotch. The couple were far too hot, but he couldn’t tear his eyes away. He watched his cousin writhe, then stiffen.

 

Apollo pulled his hand free and held it to Ares’ mouth. Strife frowned slightly when Ares appeared to pull away slightly, and Apollo frowned and said something. Ares licked Apollo’s hand clean.

 

With a pout, Apollo sat back and pulled open his pants. Strife blinked, Apollo was a big boy. Apollo urged Ares down into his lap and Strife watched in awe as the blond’s cock disappeared into Ares’ mouth.

 

Strife closed his eyes briefly, an image of him doing the same to Cupid flashing into his mind. He shook himself and opened them again quickly. He *so* didn’t need to be thinking about that right now.

 

Instead, he stared at his cousin, head moving slowly up and down the long shaft of his lover, Apollo’s hand on the back of his neck pushing him further and further down. His grip looked to be pretty tight.

 

“Interesting view.” A voice whispered in his ear. Strife jumped and swore. “Sorry.”

 

Strife blushed a vivid red and turned slowly. Great, Cupid. “Um, oh, um, hi, Cupid,” Strife managed to spit out.

 

Cupid raised an eyebrow, “That’s quite a show.”

 

Strife coughed, “Um, yeah. Well, you know, better than the movie.” He forced a laugh. What must Cupid be thinking?!

 

“I think anything’s better than this movie,” Cupid smirked.

 

Strife flushed again, “Yeah. Uh, gotta go.” He bolted. Strife thought he heard Cupid call his name, but he didn’t look back, he was far too mortified.

 

He knocked on the window of Auto’s truck. The door opened to a very flushed looking Eris.

 

“Um, ‘Ris, I’m gonna go, okay? See ya at home.”

 

“Strife?” she frowned.

 

“Bye!” Strife walked away hurriedly. He didn’t go to the guesthouse, but straight to his room, where he locked the door and flung himself onto the bed.

 

Shit! His life *totally* sucked! He probably shouldn’t have run away, but Cupid catching him watching ‘Res and ‘Pol had totally thrown him. He didn’t know what to think, or what Cupid must think.

 

What did it matter anyway? Cupid wouldn’t go for him, even if he wasn’t straight. Strife buried himself in his bedclothes and tried to sleep.

 

@>*~

 

Strife avoided everyone as best he could for the rest of the week, including his cousins. He just couldn’t face talking to anyone and small talk was currently beyond him.

 

He’d seen Cupid staring at him in the classes they shared, but had refused to meet his eyes, and escaped quickly at the end of each lesson.

 

But once the sophmore Spring dance arrived, he couldn’t avoid everyone anymore.

 

Part 5

 

“Tell me again why I have to go to this thing?” Strife asked.

 

Eris sighed, “You know why!”

 

Strife snorted, “I don’t see how Ms Jones can force us like this.”

 

“Because she’s a bitch?” Ares raised an eyebrow. “Cupid’s not got a date, ya know.”

 

Strife crushed the brief shaft of joy and hope those words brought. “Whoopadeedoo!”

 

“What is your problem, man?” Ares snapped, “You’ve been acting weird all week.”

 

“Oh well, excuse me if my pathetic excuse for a life is bothering you!” Strife yelled, “I’m gonna walk, see you there.” Strife stalked over to the door.

 

“Strife!” Ares said quietly. Strife stopped with his hand on the door handle. “I’m sorry.”

 

Strife nodded, but left the room. He needed to be alone, at least for a while.

 

At school, Strife sat himself down at a table to wait for his cousins. He’d arrived relatively early. He put his chin on his arms and let his eyes wander. They quickly fixed on Cupid and he sighed. He really had to stop torturing himself.

 

Someone slapped him on the back of his head. “Been dumped again?”

 

Strife stiffened, “What?” he turned to glare at Hercules.

 

“Your cousins have obviously seen sense like your parents did and are staying well away from you,” Hercules sneered.

 

Strife blinked. He couldn’t speak. His throat had closed up and he couldn’t breathe. Tears started to burn his eyes.

 

“Shut the *fuck* up, asshole!”

 

“Or what, dickwad?” Hercules turned to face a furious Ares.

 

“Or this!” Ares hit him hard.

 

Strife ran before the tears could start. He ran blindly and found himself in the library, so he went to the hidden area and sat down shakily. He pressed the heels of his hands against his eyes in an attempt not to cry.

 

He’d thought he’d buried all the pain, but one comment from the jerk had brought it all back.

 

“Strife?” Strife froze. Very slowly, he took his hands from his eyes and looked up. Cupid was staring down at him in concern. “Are you okay?”

 

Strife opened his mouth to speak, to ask Cupid to leave him alone, but all that came out was a sob. When Cupid dropped to his knees and pulled him into a hug, Strife crumbled. He buried his face in Cupid’s neck and cried. Cupid just held him and rocked him gently.

 

“What’s wrong with me?” Strife whispered as the tears eased.

 

“What do you mean?” Cupid asked quietly, pulling back slightly to look at him.

 

“Why did they go away? Why did they leave me alone all the time?” Strife’s breath hitched, “What did I do, what could be so bad that they couldn’t love me?”

 

Cupid pulled him close again. “Oh Strife, I’m sure they loved you. It’s not you, there’s nothing wrong with you. Some people just don’t know how to be parents.”

 

Strife looked up at him, blinking away tears. “Really?”

 

Suddenly Cupid leaned forward and kissed him. Strife’s heart stopped and he kissed back without thinking.

 

Cupid pulled away with a gasp, “Shit!”

 

Strife shrank back fearfully, “What?”  He looked round, “What, is this candid camera? Some sort of sick joke? You gonna go and have a good laugh with your buds now?!”

 

“No, Strife, I…”

 

Strife got up quickly, “I can’t believe I thought you were different!”

 

“Strife…”

 

“Stay the *fuck* away from me!” Strife ran home. He couldn’t believe he’d been stupid enough to think Cupid was being nice to him because he liked him.

 

He went straight to his room and stood unsteadily in the centre of the floor. Then he slowly pulled off his clothes. Naked and shivering, he looked round until he caught sight of the picture of his parents on his bedside table. He picked it up and stared at it, silent tears pouring down his face.

 

“Damn you,” he whispered. He threw the frame across the room, flinching at the sound of shattering glass, that mirrored the sound his heart was making.

 

Strife sank slowly to the ground and wrapped his arms round his knees, dropping his head on top of them.

 

A quiet knock on the door startled him.

 

“Go away!” he yelled. The door opened anyway, he’d forgotten to lock it. “Go away,” he whispered.

 

“Strife?”

 

Strife looked up in shock, “Cupid? What…how?”

 

“I… I had to come,” Cupid said quietly. “I couldn’t let you think I’d do something like that.”

 

“Please don’t,” Strife whispered, “Please, go away.”

 

“I can’t. Not until I know you’re okay.” Cupid approached him cautiously, stopping when Strife started laughing, slightly hysterically. “Strife?”

 

“Oh yeah,” Strife laughed, “I’m fine. My parents are dead and do you know why I’m upset? Huh, do you?” Cupid shook his head. “Because of you.”

 

“Why?” Cupid asked quietly.

 

Strife snorted, “Why do you think?”

 

“I’m sorry, I… I thought…”

 

“You thought what? You’d pitch into my heartbreak too?” Strife snapped.

 

Cupid dropped to his knees next to him again. “No! God, no. Strife, I… I really like you.”

 

“Yeah, right,” Strife interrupted him.

 

“Strife, there’s no one else here, just you and me. I… uh, I really like you, and I thought, hoped really, that you liked me too.” Cupid swallowed nervously. Strife’s breath hitched and he nodded quietly. “I’m sorry, my timing sucked. You just looked so…”

 

“Snotty?” Strife gave him a tiny smile.

 

Cupid smiled at him, “Heartbroken. I wanted to make you smile again.”

 

Strife sniffed. “Didn’t work, did it?” he laughed quietly.

 

Part 5b

 

Cupid smiled ruefully, “I guess not.” He looked down, then met Strife’s eyes. “What if… what if I…”

 

“Try it again,” Strife whispered.

 

Cupid breathed out heavily and gathered Strife in his arms. Dipping his head, he gently kissed Strife. Strife made a tiny noise and twisted slightly towards Cupid. Then he pulled back in surprise.

 

“Cupid? You… you’re *hard*.”

 

Cupid smiled gently, “Strife, you’re *naked*.”

 

Strife flushed and swallowed hard. “Oh, yeah. Um.” Strife bit his lip. He was embarrassed, but he really didn’t want to move. Cupid’s embrace was comforting and warm and Cupid wasn’t the only one who was hard.

 

“Do you want me to give you a moment?” Cupid asked, starting to move.

 

“No,” Strife whispered, feeling almost panicky. He clutched at Cupid, “Don’t let me go.”

 

“I won’t,” Cupid whispered back, holding him tighter. Strife stared up at Cupid and smiled tentatively. Cupid cupped his face gently and ran his thumb across his cheek. “Strife, this is… I mean, I want us to be together…” Cupid started.

 

Strife stiffened, “But?”

 

“But, it’ll be hard, especially on you. I mean, I’m hardly ever allowed out. I have to play football, so that means hanging with people you hate. People who can’t know I’m gay,” Cupid’s voice dropped to a whisper.

 

Strife breathed out slowly, “I know and I don’t care. Any chance I can have to be with you, I want.”

 

“Strife,” Cupid breathed. He gently brushed his mouth over Strife’s, tongue slipping out briefly to trace Strife’s lips. Strife moaned and shifted round in Cupid’s arms, getting up onto his knees. He pushed Cupid’s jacket from his shoulders and started to unbutton his shirt.

 

Cupid pulled his mouth away from Strife’s with a gasp. “What are you…?

 

“It’s only fair,” Strife tugged off Cupid’s shirt and started on his pants. “If I’m naked, you should be too,” he panted.

 

“You’re right,” Cupid groaned. He kissed Strife again, hard, his tongue demanding entry into Strife’s mouth. Strife moaned, gently sucking on Cupid’s tongue. He slipped his hand into Cupid’s pants and down his shorts, then stopped nervously.

 

Cupid lifted his head and stared at him. “Wait,” he whispered.

 

Strife sat back on his heels and watched, slightly awed as Cupid stood up and stripped off the rest of his clothes. He swallowed hard and licked his lips, letting his eyes wander over broad shoulders, flat stomach, down to his groin.

 

Strife sucked in a breath and knelt up, reaching out slowly to touch Cupid’s cock. He ran the tip of his finger along the underside and Cupid hissed. Strife looked up worriedly. Cupid’s eyes were wide with surprise and hunger.

 

He pulled Strife to his feet and into his arms, before carefully walking them over to the bed. The bed hit the back of his legs abruptly and Strife sat down, shifting back and pulling Cupid with him.

 

Cupid gently lay himself on top of Strife and stared down at him. “Are you sure about this?” he whispered.

 

Strife lifted his hand and brushed a stray lock of hair from Cupid’s forehead. “Any chance we get,” he whispered back. Cupid nodded.

 

Strife parted his legs so Cupid sank between them, both boys gasped as their cocks pressed together. Strife whimpered quietly and thrust up. They both moaned and Strife ran his hands down Cupid’s back to grasp his firm ass and pull him closer.

 

“Jesus, you feel so good,” Cupid groaned.

 

“Cupe?” Strife whispered as they moved slowly together.

 

“Yes?” Cupid gasped out.

 

“Take me,” Strife looked away and Cupid froze.

 

“What?” Cupid blinked in surprise.

 

“Please,” Strife stared up into Cupid’s eyes, “I need… I don’t know, I need to know someone cares about me.”

 

“I do care about you,” Cupid whispered gently.

 

“I need to feel it, please, I need you.”

 

“But… I, we,” Cupid stuttered.

 

Strife looked away again. “Never mind,” he whispered. That was it, he’d pushed too far.

 

“No,” Cupid took a gentle hold of Strife’s chin and made him look up. “Maybe this is too much, too soon but… you remember when I knocked you over?” Strife frowned and nodded. “I looked into your eyes, and you were so sad. I was gone, lost, I just wanted to be with you.”

 

Strife felt tears burn his eyes and they trickled down his face into his hair. Cupid gently wiped them away.

 

“I want to, I need you too,” Cupid whispered. “Only…”

 

“Only?” Strife breathed out hopefully.

 

“I’ve never,” Cupid flushed, “How do we…?”

 

Strife gave him a small smile, “I’ve never either, but I’ve read some stuff.”

 

Cupid licked his lips and smiled, “Okay.”

 

A weight Strife hadn’t even realised was pressing down on him, suddenly lifted and he smiled. Cupid made a small noise and dipped down to kiss him again. Strife’s lips parted eagerly and they tasted each other deeply.

 

Cupid started to move again, thrusting slowly against Strife, their cocks sliding together smoothly. Strife reached over to his bedside table and pulled a tube out of the drawer. Cupid raised an eyebrow at him.

 

Strife flushed, “For jerking off,” he whispered.

 

Cupid grinned, then bit his lip nervously. “What do I do?” he asked quietly.

 

“You need to, uh, to stretch me, one finger at a time. Use a lot of lube,” Strife whispered shyly. Cupid rolled onto the bed and lay on his side, pressed close to Strife. Strife bent his legs and spread them wide, flushing again. Cupid groaned and Strife looked at him worriedly.

 

“It’s okay,” Cupid whispered, “It’s just, you look so… oh God,” he groaned again and hurriedly squeezed some lube onto his fingers.

 

Strife smiled until a slick finger stroked his asshole, then he moaned. “Oh my!”

 

Cupid kissed him gently and slid his finger inside him. It went deeper than Strife could usually reach and it felt good. He squirmed slightly and kissed Cupid harder. A second finger wriggled inside him and Strife gasped.

 

Cupid lifted his head. “You okay,” he asked anxiously.

 

Strife nodded, panting slightly, “Yeah, stretch.”

 

Cupid pushed a little deeper and stretched him. His fingers scissored, pumping inside Strife.

 

“Oooh Christ!” Strife almost dislodged Cupid in shock at the jolt of pleasure that hit him. “Do… do that again.” Cupid blinked and reached deep again. “Oh my God!” Strife exclaimed.

 

“What? Are you okay?” Cupid frowned worriedly.

 

“Oh yeah, more,” Strife panted. Cupid pushed a third finger into him. Strife grunted, it was uncomfortably tight.

 

“Too much?” Cupid whispered.

 

“No, just weird,” Strife gasped quietly. Cupid continued to stretch him, but Strife desperately needed more. “Cupid, you, now, please.”

 

Cupid breathed out raggedly and slowly pulled his fingers out. He lay back on top of Strife carefully and put a lot of lube on his cock, rubbing some more on Strife’s asshole gently.

 

“Slow,” Strife whispered. Cupid nodded and pressed his cock against him. Strife breathed out and tried to relax. The head of Cupid’s cock pushed into him and Strife gasped in pain.

 

“Oh God!” Cupid groaned.

 

“Wait,” Strife moaned.

 

“I’m sorry,” Cupid looked frantic.

 

Strife shook his head, “It’s okay, kiss me.”

 

Cupid tenderly brushed his lips over Strife’s mouth, his tongue slipped between Strife’s lips and they kissed gently. As Strife relaxed, Cupid slowly sank into him.

 

The pain eased to discomfort, and when Cupid was fully inside him, he felt a kind of happiness he’d never expected or experienced.

 

“Strife? Baby, what is it?” Cupid asked worriedly. Strife realised he was crying again. “You want me to stop?”

 

“No!” Strife clutched Cupid close, “It’s just… you’re inside me,” he said in awe.

 

“I know,” Cupid whispered. “It’s amazing, you feel amazing. Strife, I’m not going to last long.”

 

“Me either,” Strife panted, “Please, Cupe, move.” Cupid slowly withdrew, then carefully slid back inside him. “Oh God,” Strife moaned, he wrapped his legs round Cupid’s hips and thrust up to meet Cupid’s next stroke.

 

Cupid buried his face in Strife’s neck, groaning. He plunged deep and Strife felt a shockwave of pleasure course through him. He stiffened, biting his lip so he didn’t cry out as he came.

 

“Oh, Strife!” Cupid exclaimed. He thrust hard once, and then Strife felt Cupid shudder and his ass fill with warmth. Cupid dropped on top of Strife heavily. They were both panting hard. Strife closed his eyes and gently stroked Cupid’s back. He could feel Cupid’s breath on his neck and it sent small shivers down his spine.

 

“Cupe?” he whispered.

 

“Yeah?”

 

“You called me, baby.”

 

Cupid raised his head and met his eyes shyly. “Yeah. Is that… is that okay?”

 

Strife’s breath hitched slightly and he smiled. “Yeah,” he whispered. Cupid smiled back and kissed him softly. He pulled carefully out of Strife and rolled over, pulling Strife with him into a cuddle.

 

Part 6

 

“Strife?” Cupid whispered.

 

Strife snuggled against his lover’s strong body. “Yeah?”

 

“What did it feel like?”

 

Strife tipped his head back to look up at Cupid. Cupid was frowning contemplatively. “It’s strange at first, a little painful. But then it just feels, like, wow. But more than that, I felt like I was part of you, like I belonged,” Strife whispered quietly.

 

Cupid kissed him briefly, then pulled back to stare at him again.

 

“What, Cupe? What is it?” Strife asked curiously.

 

“I… I’d like to… you know,” Cupid mumbled hesitantly.

 

Strife blinked at him. “You mean… you want me to…?” Cupid nodded. “Oh Cupe, really?” Strife leaned up and kissed him. “I’d love to.”

 

Cupid sighed happily and pulled Strife closer, kissing him again softly. Strife shifted slightly, so his head lay on Cupid’s shoulder and he trailed his fingers idly over his lover’s chest. Strife was on the verge of sleep when the door opened suddenly.

 

“Holy fuck!”

 

Strife scrambled for some covers. “Ares! Don’t you fucking *knock*?!”

 

Ares gaped at him, “I was worried about you, obviously with good reason. Are you nuts?! What the fuck is *he* doing here?”

 

Strife raised an eyebrow. “What does it look like?” he snapped.

 

Ares frowned at him, “Strife, you… Love, get the fuck out of here, I think you got what you came for!”

 

“Fuck you, King!” Cupid retorted angrily.

 

“Ares, what I do and who I do it with, is *my* business!” Strife hissed.

 

Ares flinched slightly. “I don’t want you hurt,” he said quietly.

 

“Neither do I,” Cupid stared at Ares. Ares met his eyes and they glared at each other until Ares finally sighed.

 

“You’d better not, or I’ll kill you,” he muttered.

 

“’Res, just tell me you whooped Jerkules’ ass good and my night will be complete,” Strife said.

 

Ares couldn’t quite hold back a grin, “Yeah, I whooped his ass good.”

 

“All right!” Strife chuckled. He tilted his head back to look at Cupid, who smiled down at him, stroking his hip gently.

 

“Talking of the jerk, baby, I’d better go,” Cupid whispered.

 

Strife sighed, “I know.”

 

Cupid sat up and patted his ass lightly. “Library tomorrow?”

 

Strife’s face lit up, “Yeah, lunch time?”

 

Cupid nodded and leaned down and they kissed softly. Cupid cupped Strife’s face and he stroked his cheek gently before he got up and pulled his clothes back on. Strife glanced at Ares, who was looking a little awed. Strife frowned slightly. He sat up and dug some shorts out from under his pillow and put them on.

 

“You gonna wait here?” he asked Ares. His cousin nodded. Strife took Cupid’s hand and carefully they snuck down to the kitchen. Rita was reading at the table. She looked up and smiled.

 

“Everything okay now?” she asked quietly.

 

Strife raised an eyebrow, “You let him in?”

 

“Of course, sweetie,” she grinned, “He was obviously very concerned about you. He’s a very nice young man,” she winked at Strife.

 

Cupid flushed and Strife smiled at him, “Thanks, Rit.”

 

Cupid pulled him close and kissed him urgently. “You know I don’t want to go?” he asked quietly.

 

Strife stared into his eyes and nodded, “I know.”

 

Cupid gave him one last, quick kiss before he left. Strife threw his arms round Rita’s neck and gave her a resounding kiss.

 

She chuckled, “Silly boy.”

 

“Just… thank you,” he grinned at her, “Goodnight.”

 

“Goodnight, sweetie.”

 

Strife wandered slowly back up to his room, where Ares was sitting on his bed looking slightly stunned. Strife sat next to him and waited.

 

“What happened?” Ares asked quietly.

 

“Cupe came after me to see if I was okay. He kissed me,” Strife started.

 

“He kissed you?” Ares frowned.

 

“Yeah. He means it ‘Res, really, he likes me. And I like him, a lot,” Strife said quietly.

 

“But what about Herc and company?”

 

Strife shrugged, “We’re going to keep it a secret.”

 

“It’ll be hard on you,” Ares looked at him sadly.

 

“I know. He said the same thing, but I want it. I want him, any way I can have him,” Strife stared at his cousin pleading for understanding.

 

“Okay,” Ares sighed. “Strife, did you, I mean, did you and Cupid…?”

 

Strife flushed, “Yeah, and I asked him too, okay?!”

 

“He topped?”

 

“Yes. What is this?” Strife frowned.

 

“Are you okay?”

 

“’Res? I’m fine,” Strife was confused. “It was amazing,” he sighed, “Beautiful.”

 

“You’re really okay?” Ares asked again.

 

“Yes, why?” Strife asked quietly.

 

“Nothing, no reason,” Ares said hurriedly. “Listen, you better not bring him up here again. If he can get away, bring him to the guesthouse, okay?”

 

Strife smiled brilliantly, “Thanks, ‘Res. ‘Ris won’t mind?”

 

“Course not. You know she just wants you to be happy,” Ares smiled at last.

 

“I am, you know,” Strife whispered.

 

“Good.” Ares gave him a hug.

 

“What about you, ‘Res?” Strife asked. Ares raised an inquiring eyebrow. “Are you happy?”

 

Ares shrugged, “Yeah, I guess, why?”

 

Strife pursed his lips thoughtfully. “You just seem a little, I don’t know. Is everything okay with Apollo?” Strife frowned when he felt Ares stiffen slightly.

 

“Yeah, course it is,” Ares smiled tightly, “Anyway, I’ll leave you to it, Zeus wants a word.”

 

Strife winced, “Are you in a lot of trouble?”

 

“Yeah, I reckon.”

 

“Thanks for sticking up for me,” Strife said quietly.

 

“Sure,” Ares smiled at him as he left the room.

 

Strife lay back, slightly worried about his cousin, but otherwise ecstatic. Oh, he knew it was going to be hard, but he had a feeling it was going to be worth it. He turned over and buried his face in the pillow where he could smell Cupid and sighed happily. He drifted off to sleep dreaming of his blond lover.

 

Part 7

 

Strife headed for the library, deep in thought. The morning had been strange. Hercules had the day off, nursing his bruises and Ares was suspended for the day, so Strife had to deal with some of the jock squad, who’d decided to blame the whole thing on him, on his own.

 

Generally he managed to avoid being alone, so all he had to worry about were comments about cry babies and pussies, and snickers directed his way. But he was okay, especially after he’d seen Cupid in one of his classes. His lover had caught his hand briefly as he’d passed him and given him a soft smile.

 

That had calmed the small, niggling worry in the back of his mind that Ares had been right and Cupid *had* only wanted one thing. Cupid was already waiting for him and smiled brilliantly at him as he approached. Strife’s breath caught in his throat and he smiled back.

 

“Hi,” Cupid whispered, as Strife sat down next to him.

 

Strife looked at Cupid out of the corner of his eyes shyly. “Hi,” he said quietly.

 

“Strife?” Cupid twisted slightly towards him, dipping his head a little so he could look at Strife’s face. When Cupid touched his arm gently, Strife’s nerves calmed enough that he finally turned his head to meet his lover’s eyes. Cupid looked worried.

 

“Sorry,” Strife breathed, “Nervous.”

 

“*You’re* nervous?” Cupid chuckled quietly, and Strife grinned. “C’mere.” Cupid pulled him into a hug. Strife melted into his lover’s strong embrace with a happy sigh.

 

“How’s today been?” Cupid asked, gently stroking Strife’s hair, “Has anyone hassled you?”

 

“Nah, not really,” Strife replied quietly, “Couldn’t think of anything but you anyway.”

 

Cupid sucked in a breath. “Same here,” he whispered.

 

“What, you were thinking of you too?” Strife grimaced at himself. Cupid pulled back with a frown. “Sorry,” he whispered.

 

“You don’t need to do that,” Cupid said softly.

 

“What?” Strife sighed, ducking his head and closing his eyes, resigned to his fucked up sense of humour having ruined the moment.

 

“Try to protect yourself, distance yourself,” Cupid tipped Strife’s head up and stared at him until he met his eyes. “If it’s too much, too intense, tell me. I don’t want to do anything to make you uncomfortable.”

 

“No!” Strife grasped Cupid’s wrist anxiously. “You’re not, it’s not too much. I, I guess I’m just not used to too many people giving a damn. But I want this… so much. God, you have no idea how much.”

 

“I think I might have an idea,” Cupid whispered. He leaned forward and kissed Strife, pressing his lips gently against his mouth. Strife moaned when his lover pulled away. “Damn,” Cupid breathed.

 

“What is it?” Strife asked, slightly worried.

 

“I want you so bad, baby.”

 

Strife’s eyes widened in surprise and he groaned with the tightening of his pants. “Then have me,” he gasped.

 

Cupid stared at him sharply. Then with a moan, he pushed Strife to the ground, possessing his mouth with tender urgency. Strife kissed back eagerly, letting his lips and tongue convey how much he wanted to feel his lover.

 

Cupid lay on top of him and they rocked together, their movements quickly becoming more frantic, as they tried to stifle their moans with their mouths on each other.

 

“Wait,” Cupid pulled back with a gasp. Strife whimpered, reaching out reflexively with need. “Shh,” Cupid petted him gently, letting his hand trail down his chest as he shifted backwards.

 

“What are you… oh!” Strife gasped. Cupid was tugging at the buttons on his jeans, and quickly had them open and his cock free of it’s restrictions. “Jesus, fuck!” Strife yelped at the feel of Cupid’s breath on his groin, from where he’d suddenly leaned down.

 

Cupid’s eyes flicked up to meet his, waiting, questioning.

 

Strife licked his lips and breathed out heavily. “Oh Cupe, please.”

 

Cupid’s tongue flicked out and tentatively licked the tip of his cock. Strife bit down hard on his lip, so as not to cry out and to stop himself from coming on the spot. Cupid smiled at him and slowly trailed his tongue down his erection and then back up.

 

“Oh God,” Strife whispered, the sensation almost too much for him. He stuffed his hand into his mouth, when Cupid gently took his cock into his mouth and sucked. Strife bucked and Cupid pulled back, coughing. “Sorry,” Strife whispered.

 

“S’okay,” Cupid patted his thigh reassuringly. He repositioned himself, and held Strife’s hips down, before swallowing Strife’s erection again. Strife whimpered quietly, his eyes rolling back in bliss. Cupid sucked and licked eagerly, quickly speeding up. Strife’s hands tangled the soft hair of his lover and he cried out a quiet warning.

 

Cupid continued to suck as Strife came, swallowing quickly, but choking slightly. Strife panted quietly, stroking Cupid’s hair before urging his lover back up to lie on him again.

 

“Thank you,” Strife whispered, “Are you okay?”

 

“Oh yeah,” Cupid kissed him deeply, letting Strife taste himself. Strife reached down and cupped Cupid’s groin. Cupid stiffened and moaned against Strife’s lips. He thrust into Strife’s hand.

 

“Can I?” Strife whispered.

 

“Please,” Cupid groaned. They both grimaced in frustration when the bell suddenly went. “Shit,” Cupid cursed quietly, moving to get up.

 

Strife stopped him. “No,” he shook his head.

 

“But…” Cupid started. Strife quickly kissed him and slipped his hand down the front of Cupid’s pants. Cupid made a strangled noise and kissed back urgently. Strife gripped Cupid’s erection tightly and pumped quickly, holding his lover close as he thrust uncontrollably. “God, Strife!” Cupid gasped out, he came suddenly, filling Strife’s hand with wet warmth.

 

Strife pulled his hand free and licked the seed from it, determined to taste his lover. Cupid groaned and kissed him again.

 

“We’d better go, lover,” Strife muttered reluctantly when they let each other go. Cupid sighed and nodded. They got up and adjusted their clothing. Strife smoothed Cupid’s hair from where he’d messed it up. They snuck towards the library door.

 

“Tomorrow?” Strife asked hopefully.

 

Cupid shook his head, “Can’t, football.” Strife’s face fell. “Baby?” Strife looked up, “I’ll try and ring you, okay?” Cupid bit his lip uncertainly.

 

Strife forced himself to smile and he nodded. “It’s okay, Cupe, I know this isn’t going to be easy.”

 

“I… Strife, I…” Cupid stopped, then he nodded. “Okay,” he whispered. He gave Strife a last quick kiss then hurried away to class.

 

Strife stared after him with a frown, wondering what he’d been about to say.

 

Part 8

 

The next day had been hard for Strife, as had the day after. Cupid had been free the second day, but Strife hadn’t. He’d been sent to the principal’s office for cracking jokes in class.

 

Seeing Cupid around school, they’d shared secret smiles, but hadn’t had the opportunity to talk as they had done, even before they’d got together. And that day, Cupid had practise again.

 

Strife was about ready to burst. Even the jock squad left him alone as he walked about with a fierce scowl, growling at anyone who spoke to him. Ares and Eris looked worried whenever they saw him, but Strife just shrugged if they asked him if he was okay.

 

Strife headed for the common room, he had a free period. As far as he knew, Cupid had some sort of strategy meeting with his coach. Strife was sorely tempted to go to the bathroom and jerk off.

 

Without warning, someone grabbed him by the scruff of the neck and dragged him into a store cupboard. Strife struggled, twisting round and raising his fist.

 

“Strife, it’s me!”

 

Strife’s hand dropped and he grinned, “Cupe?!” His lover chuckled at him and kissed him gently. “I thought you were busy,” Strife panted when they pulled apart.

 

“I am, I haven’t got long,” Cupid nodded, “I wanted to see you.” Strife smiled and stroked Cupid’s cheek. “I can get away tonight,” Cupid whispered. He pressed his body up against Strife and buried his face in his neck, nuzzling softly.

 

Strife sighed happily. He wrapped his arms round Cupid and tilted his head to give his lover better access. “What time can you come over?”

 

“Seven, my parents think it’s a football thing,” Cupid said against his cheek, lips ghosting over his skin. He started to roll his hips, pressing his groin against Strife’s.

 

Strife moaned quietly, “Sneaky,” he whispered hoarsely. Cupid nodded as he dropped feather light kisses along Strife’s jaw to the other side of his face.  Strife was having trouble breathing and his hands roamed over Cupid’s body. “You… oh, yes!” Cupid had latched onto his earlobe and was sucking it gently. “Come round to the guesthouse, it’s safer,” Strife managed to pant out.

 

Cupid nodded, he started to rock faster against Strife. “Can’t wait to feel you inside me, baby,” he whispered.

 

Strife’s chest tightened at his lover’s words. “Oh God, Cupe!”

 

Their lips met again urgently and they thrust against each other frantically. Cupid grasped Strife’s head almost devouring him as his tongue plunged into Strife’s mouth. Strife sucked and slid his own tongue deep into Cupid’s mouth.

 

He whimpered against soft lips, shuddering uncontrollably and he came in his pants. Cupid stiffened, his cry swallowed by the kiss. He thrust hard against Strife, then lifted his head, sucking in a deep, shaky breath.

 

“Strife,” Cupid whispered, “I…I…” Strife looked at him, raising his eyebrows in slightly concerned curiosity. Cupid sighed and looked down.

 

“Cupe?” Strife lifted Cupid’s chin.

 

Cupid gave him a tiny smile, “I just want it to be tonight, so we can spend some decent time together.”

 

Strife nodded and smiled, giving Cupid a small kiss. “Yeah,” he whispered. He dug some tissues out of his bag and handed one to Cupid who gave him a funny look. Strife grinned ruefully, “Ya know, just in case.”

 

Cupid sniggered, “Uh huh.” Strife pouted until Cupid leaned forward and kissed him sweetly, gently sucking on his bottom lip. Strife grinned against Cupid’s mouth. Cupid pulled back with a reluctant sigh. “I’d better go. See you later, baby,” he straightened himself up, then kissed Strife once more, before he snuck out.

 

Strife sighed happily, leaning his head back against the wall. He wondered again what it was Cupid had been going to say, then shook his head. It couldn’t have been that important. Strife slowly sorted himself out and then in his turn, snuck out of the cupboard.

 

@>*~

 

Strife waited nervously. He hadn’t had the chance to talk to his cousins about Cupid coming over, at school. And they hadn’t been home yet. He’d been spending more time at the guesthouse so the bed was pulled out from the previous night. Strife lay back with a sigh.

 

He knew Eris and Ares wouldn’t mind Cupid coming round, but he wasn’t sure they’d be too happy walking in on him and his lover having sex. But there was nowhere else for them to go. He just hoped they’d have plenty of time alone.

 

A loud knock at the door startled him and he swore at himself for losing track of the time. He hurried to the door and let Cupid in.

 

“Cupe,” he barely had time to breathe before he was shoved against the wall and his mouth was consumed passionately. Cupid kicked the door shut and pressed himself up against Strife. Strife wrapped his arms around Cupid’s neck and allowed himself to be picked up, slinging his legs round Cupid’s hips. Cupid gripped his ass firmly, and pulled back slightly.

 

“Where to?” he panted. Strife nodded at the lounge door and Cupid carried him through, kissing him again.

 

All thoughts of his cousins flew out of his head as he was deposited on the couch. “In a… hurry?” he gasped with a small chuckle.

 

Cupid grinned at him, “Oh yeah. Now, get naked.”

 

“Ooh, pushy,” Strife snickered. Then he stopped, staring hungrily at Cupid’s now bare chest. “Shit,” he whispered. He watched Cupid strip, gently stroking his crotch.

 

“Jesus, Strife,” Cupid moaned. Strife met his eyes, gasping quietly at the tender lust he could see there. He sat up and leaned forward, pulling Cupid closer. As he leaned in, Cupid sucked in a breath and Strife looked up worriedly.

 

Cupid stroked his hair. “Baby, please touch me,” he whispered.

 

Strife sighed in relief and leaned forward again. He rubbed his cheek against the silky skin of Cupid’s cock, then turned his head to kiss it gently. Cupid groaned and weaved his fingers through Strife’s hair. Strife stuck out his tongue to taste the drop of precum at the tip, gently dipping his tongue into the slit.

 

“Oh, God,” Cupid sighed.

 

Strife licked his lover’s cock thoroughly, then, tentatively, he wrapped his lips over the head, sucking lightly. Remembering his own reaction, Strife put his hands on Cupid’s hips to hold him in place, as he gradually swallowed more of the hard length.

 

He took it as deep as he could, sucking and licking. Cupid strained against his hands, panting hard. Strife slowly slid his mouth up and down Cupid’s shaft, working it with his tongue.

 

“God, Strife, faster!” Cupid groaned.

 

Strife moved faster and sucked harder, tightening his lips, amazed at the noises Cupid was making.

 

“Coming, Strife, oh, coming!” Cupid gasped.

 

Strife swallowed Cupid’s cock as deep as he could and his lover bucked against his hands urgently. Strife gagged slightly when Cupid’s seed hit the back of his throat, but he swallowed determinedly. When Cupid stopped shuddering, Strife pulled back and looked up. Cupid was staring down at him with glazed over eyes.

 

Part 9

 

“Baby,” Cupid whispered. He bent down and cupped Strife’s cheek, kissing him softly. Strife slid his hand round the back of Cupid’s neck, drawing him down onto the bed. They shifted back until they were lying down, Cupid thrusting gently against Strife’s erection.

 

Strife pushed him back and sat up to pull his t-shirt off. Cupid reached up and stroked his chest, slowly trailing his fingers over his nipples. Strife gasped as his nipples tightened. The exploring fingers lowered, tracing over his slightly protruding ribs and down his stomach to the top of his pants. Cupid unbuttoned Strife’s jeans and slipped his hand into his shorts, lightly stroking his cock.

 

“Oh, God,” Strife moaned. He caught Cupid’s wrist and pulled his hand away. He kissed Cupid’s palm softly before he lay back to hitch his jeans and shorts down and off, dropping them on the floor. He rolled onto his side and stared at Cupid. His lover smiled and reached up again, to draw him into a kiss.

 

Strife moaned quietly, dipping his tongue between soft lips to taste his lover. Cupid sucked gently, kneading his neck lightly. Strife stroked his hand down Cupid’s body and carefully lifted and parted his legs. Cupid whimpered into his mouth. Strife slowly trailed a finger along the crease of Cupid’s ass and his lover gasped.

 

“Please, baby,” Cupid whispered against his lips.

 

Strife pulled back and reached for the lube. He coated his fingers and returned them to Cupid’s ass, dipping between the firm cheeks to rub his asshole. Watching Cupid’s face nervously, he slowly slid one finger into his lover’s body.

 

“Oh!” Cupid gasped.

 

“Is that okay?” Strife asked worriedly.

 

“Yeah,” Cupid breathed.

 

Strife reached deep, wriggling his finger gently. Then he pulled it out and pressed two fingers into the tight passage. Cupid moaned and squirmed slightly. Strife licked his lips and pushed in further trying to find Cupid’s prostate. He rubbed across a small bump and Cupid convulsed.

 

“God, Strife, that! What was that?!” Cupid panted. Strife smiled happily and leaned down to kiss his lover, gently stroking the nub again. Cupid bucked, moaning into his mouth. “More, please more,” Cupid begged.

 

Nervously, Strife added a third finger. Cupid stopped moving. “Cupe?” Strife pulled back to look at his lover’s face.

 

“It’s okay,” Cupid sighed, “Just tight.”

 

“I know,” Strife whispered. He kept his fingers in place until he felt Cupid relax slightly.

 

“Please, Strife,” Cupid said quietly. Strife pumped his fingers slowly, stretching Cupid’s hole carefully. He reached again for his lover’s prostate, rubbing it firmly. “Oh yes!” Cupid gasped, thrusting against his fingers. “Inside me, please, Strife!”

 

Strife knelt between Cupid’s legs and rubbed lube onto his cock. Cupid watched him avidly, licking his lips. Strife lay on top of him and positioned his cock at the entrance to Cupid’s body. As slowly as he could, he pushed the head into the tight hole.

 

Both boys gasped, and Strife gritted his teeth with the effort not to thrust in hard. Cupid’s ass clenched around him and he tightened his grip around his cock to stop himself from coming on the spot.

 

“You okay?” he whispered.

 

“I think so,” Cupid panted, “Hurts a bit.”

 

Strife nodded. “Gets better,” he managed to whisper. It was a strain to hold still, but gradually, Cupid relaxed and without pushing, Strife slowly sank deeper inside his lover’s body.

 

“Oh my God,” Cupid gasped quietly. “You’re right, baby, I feel like part of you. I feel like I belong. Oh, Strife, please, need you to move.”

 

Strife smiled and dropped a gentle kiss onto Cupid’s lips as he slowly pulled back. Cupid was right too, it was amazing to be inside his lover, incredible. Cupid’s renewed erection was pressed against his belly and he thrust gently.

 

“Oh God, Cupe,” he gasped, “Too much!”

 

Cupid wrapped his legs round his hips, encouraging his gentle movements. “Yes, Strife, so good!” Cupid moaned.

 

Strife thrust again, then stopped fearfully when Cupid froze. He looked at his lover, but Cupid was staring over his shoulder. Strife groaned and twisted his head to see his cousins staring wide eyed at them.

 

“Shit,” Strife gasped.

 

“Uh, uh, sorry,” Ares stammered, “We’ll go.” Ares and Eris backed out of the room and shut the door. Strife looked back at his lover regretfully, preparing to pull out, but Cupid pulled him close.

 

“Don’t you dare stop now,” Cupid whispered, clenching his ass round Strife’s cock. Strife gasped and plunged back into Cupid. His lover thrust his hips up.

 

“Oh, God,” Strife gasped. They rocked urgently together, Strife plunging deeper. Cupid grasped his ass tightly and Strife stiffened. His back arched and he drove deep into his lover, coming hard.

 

“Yes, Strife!” Cupid yelled, bucking against him. Strife felt the hot wetness of Cupid’s second orgasm on his stomach and he collapsed on top of his strong lover. “Oh baby,” Cupid whispered, clutching him tightly.

 

Strife lifted his head and stared down at him. “I didn’t hurt you, did I?” he asked anxiously.

 

Cupid shook his head and smiled, pulling him down for a gentle, but passionate kiss. He whispered something against Strife’s lips. Strife pulled back.

 

“What?” he asked softly.

 

Cupid flushed lightly and shook his head, “Nothing, just thank you, baby.”

 

Strife’s breath hitched and his chest clenched tightly. He smiled happily and dipped his head to kiss Cupid again. He carefully pulled out and reached for the tissues to clean then both up gently.

 

Part 10

 

They got dressed slowly, as they kept stopping to touch and kiss. Cupid helped him to tidy the bed away.

 

“Are Ares and Eris going to be mad?” Cupid asked.

 

“I don’t know,” Strife shrugged. “Ares said you could come round, but I hadn’t actually had a chance to tell them about tonight.” Strife sat down, pulling Cupid with him. “This is the only place we’re going to be able to spend time together properly,” he sighed. Cupid wrapped his arms around him and put his head on his shoulder. “Hopefully, we can work something out.”

 

“Yeah,” said Cupid quietly.

 

There was a quiet knock at the door. “It safe to come in yet?” Eris laughed behind the door.

 

Strife chuckled, “Yeah, come on in.”

 

Ares and Eris walked in, Eris grinning slightly, and Ares staring at them oddly. They sat down in the armchairs.

 

“Look guys, I’m sorry, I didn’t have a chance to tell you Cupe was coming over. You did say it was okay,” Strife started slightly defensively.

 

Cupid touched his arm gently. “It’s okay, baby, I don’t think they’re mad,” he said quietly.

 

“Course not!” Eris exclaimed, “It was just unexpected.” She smiled gently at her cousin. “Listen, ‘Res and I have been talking. We know that you’re not going to have much opportunity to spend time together. We just want you to feel completely comfortable, and let you know that we are too, okay?”

 

Strife felt almost tearful and he smiled gratefully, “Really?” he glanced at Ares, who hadn’t said a word. Ares was still staring at them, something almost like confusion on his face. Strife decided that he was going to have a word with his cousin, he was starting to get seriously worried.

 

Ares got up and bent down to give Strife a hug. “Really,” he said quietly. He patted Cupid’s shoulder, “You okay with that?” he asked the blond.

 

“Yeah, thanks, man. Thanks, Eris,” Cupid grinned at them both.

 

“No problem,” Eris smiled. “Do you mind if I put the TV on? My program’s on.”

 

“’Course not, it’s your place, cuz,” Strife grinned.

 

Cupid and Strife snuggled up together on the couch, exchanging gentle kisses and whispering, while Eris watched the TV and Ares watched them. Soon however, Cupid sat up with a sigh.

 

“Time to go?” Strife asked quietly. Cupid nodded, looking down sadly. “Hey, it’s okay,” Strife lifted his chin and kissed him, “I’ll see you Monday, yeah?”

 

Cupid wrapped his arms round Strife and held him close, burying his face in his neck. He nodded and squeezed Strife before he pulled back again. They got up and Cupid said a quiet goodbye to Ares and Eris. Strife took his hand and they walked to the door in silence.

 

“Library, lunch time,” Cupid whispered, cupping Strife’s face.

 

Strife nodded. “Yeah,” he smiled softly. Cupid kissed him sweetly, but with a hint of desperation.

 

“Strife, I…” Cupid paused, “I hate having to leave like this.”

 

“I know,” Strife whispered. After another long kiss, Cupid left. Strife shut the door behind him and leaned back against the wall, with a tiny smile. Things were going to be okay.

 

@>*~

 

Strife went back to the lounge and Eris grinned at him.

 

“You guys are so sweet together,” she commented.

 

Strife flushed and grinned at her, “Thanks. I love being with him, he’s amazing. It’s amazing.”

 

“Looked like you were having a good time,” Eris chuckled.

 

“Yeah,” Strife smirked, then he cleared his throat, “Sorry about that.”

 

“Like we said, it’s not a problem,” she replied with a smile.

 

“Thanks.” Strife glanced at Ares, who was very quiet, trying to decide whether or not to talk to him now. He sat down with a happy sigh. “Can’t wait till my turn,” he said, with a wink at Ares.

 

Ares blinked at him. “Really?”

 

“Oh yeah!” Strife nodded, “Come on, you know how good it feels by now?”

 

Ares flushed and sighed, “Yeah, sure. I’m going to bed, see you tomorrow.” Ares got up and left the room quickly.

 

Strife frowned and exchanged a glance with Eris. She shrugged.

 

“Better leave him. He’s been in a mood since we walked in on you,” Eris said quietly.

 

“Yeah, okay. I just think something’s wrong with him and ‘Pol,” Strife frowned.

 

“Yeah, me too,” Eris agreed with a sigh.

 

@>*~

 

Strife lay on the couch, but he couldn’t sleep. After a couple of hours tossing and turning, he got up and made his way to Ares’ room. He knocked quietly. The door opened quickly to a miserable looking Ares.

 

“What?” his cousin asked him shortly.

 

“Can we talk?” Strife asked. Ares stared at him for a second, then he sighed and held the door open. Strife walked in and sat on the bed.

 

“What is it?” Ares asked quietly.

 

“I’m worried about you,” Strife started.

 

“Well don’t be, I’m fine,” Ares interrupted him.

 

“You are so *not* fine, ‘Res,” Strife raised his eyebrows.

 

Ares’ expression blanked. “I don’t know what you mean.”

 

Strife sighed. “You’re quiet, defensive, you practically flinch anytime someone mentions Apollo,” he stopped as Ares stiffened. “See?” Strife pointed out. “What’s going on?”

 

“Nothing,” Ares insisted, “Okay? I’m fine, Apollo’s fine, everything’s fine!”

 

“Only fine?” Strife asked gently.

 

Ares stood up and glared at him, “What is this? Twenty questions?! So my relationship isn’t all cosy and lovey-dovey like yours, so what?”

 

“So what?!” Strife shook his head, “I know you, man, you’re not happy. I’m not saying what you have should be like what I have with Cupe, but it should at least make you happy. Please, ‘Res, if you can’t talk to me, who can you talk to?”

 

“Just leave it.”

 

“No, ‘Res, I can’t. Not until I know what’s wrong,” Strife looked up in concern.

 

“He hurts me, okay?!” Ares snapped. He glared at Strife, then his head dropped and he took a deep, shaky breath. “He hurts me and I bleed.” Ares sat down heavily.

 

Strife was horrified, “God, Ares!”

 

“He… he says I do it all wrong, that I’m just a pussy if I can’t take it.”

 

Strife hadn’t seen his cousin so close to tears for a very long time. He shook his head, “You’re not doing anything wrong. If he’s hurting you, he’s doing it wrong, not you!” Strife pulled Ares into a hug. “Why are you still with him?” he whispered.

 

Ares shook his head, “I… I don’t know. I guess I just wanted someone, wanted to be close to someone, like you and Cupid.”

 

“Not like that, ‘Res. It should be wonderful,” Strife whispered, “Not painful and humiliating.”

 

“When you and Cupid… it didn’t hurt?” Ares asked quietly.

 

“A little at first, just till you get used to it. Then it’s, well it’s mind-blowing,” Strife replied, “’Res, it’s not worth it, not just to have a bit of companionship.”

 

Ares pulled back and stared at him. “Yeah, maybe. I think I’ll have a word with Apollo. We’re meeting at E20 tomorrow.”

 

Strife sighed, “Okay. Just remember, you deserve better, ‘Res.”

 

“Thanks,” Ares gave him a tiny smile.

 

“You want me to stay?” Strife asked quietly.

 

“Yeah, thanks, Strife.”

 

Strife got into the bed with him and hugged him. This time, they both managed to sleep.

 

Part 11

 

“We’re coming.”

 

“But…”

 

“’Res, we’re coming with you, no arguments,” said Eris firmly.

 

Ares sighed, “Okay, okay.”

 

“And I think you should just dump the bastard,” she added.

 

“We’ll see what happens, Eris, okay?” Strife said quietly. She glanced at him and nodded curtly. They’d all had a talk that day and Eris was steaming mad.

 

They drove to E20 in tense silence. Inside, Auto joined them. He picked up on the tense atmosphere and put his arm round Eris comfortingly. She smiled gratefully at him. Apollo wasn’t there, so they sat down to wait.

 

Strife remembered he’d left his wallet in the car and hurried out to get it. As he walked to the car, he saw another draw up near the entrance to the bowling alley. He frowned when he saw Apollo get out, he thought he’d seen his car already there.

 

When Apollo leaned into the car and kissed the occupant, Strife ducked down out of sight and watched.

 

“See ya later, I’m going to get me some teenage ass now,” Apollo snickered.

 

“You lucky dog,” said the guy in the car, “I’ll see ya, babe.”

 

“Bye, lover,” Apollo shut the door and watched the car drive away, before he entered E20.

 

Strife hurried in after him, shaking with anger. He reached Apollo just as he reached the table. Strife grabbed his arm and swung him round.

 

“Hey, what’s your problem?” Apollo exclaimed angrily.

 

“What’s *my* problem?!” Strife hissed, “’I’m going to get me some teenage ass now’?!” Apollo blanched.

 

Ares frowned, “Strife, what are you talking about?”

 

“Shit, Ares, I’m sorry, but it’s what he said to his lover,” Strife said quietly.

 

“Lover?” Ares asked, his voice toneless.

 

Apollo sneered, “Oh, please. You didn’t really think this was an exclusive relationship, did you? What on earth would I want with a sixteen year old, other than a fuck?!”

 

Ares shot out of his seat and grasped Apollo’s throat. Sixteen he may have been, but he was bigger and stronger than Apollo.

 

“Well, I know what I wanted, you couldn’t possibly give. You aren’t capable of that!” Ares snapped. “Oh, and you are a *lousy* fuck!” He thrust Apollo away from him and turned away.

 

On the outside Ares may have looked in control, but both Strife and Eris knew the signs of how upset and angry he was and they quickly led him out and to the car. Auto followed quietly. The drive home was more tense than the drive there, and Strife kept a close eye on his cousin, hoping the explosion wouldn’t come in the car.

 

Ares strode in the door ahead of them, Eris pulled Auto aside, Strife presumed to explain to him what was about to happen. Strife hurried in after Ares.

 

Ares was standing in the middle of the lounge, fists clenched tightly, chest heaving. Strife started to approach him cautiously, but stopped when Ares picked up a bottle.

 

“What would he want with a sixteen year old?!” Ares spat, he twisted and threw the bottle at the wall opposite Strife. Strife flinched. “Just a fuck. I let him hurt me, and it was just a fuck?!” he yelled.

 

“’Res, calm down, man, he’s not worth it,” Strife said quietly. Ares turned to glare at him, eyes glinting dangerously. Strife stood his ground knowing Ares would never hurt him.

 

Ares screamed and punched the wall hard. Then he dropped to the ground, shaking his head.

 

“Is that all I’m good for? Being used, then being dumped?” Ares whispered.

 

Strife blinked back tears and hurried over, crouching next to his cousin and hugging him tightly. Ares sobbed in his arms, it was the first time Strife had seen him cry since his Aunt Hera had disappeared.

 

“No, ‘Res, no. He was an asshole who didn’t deserve you,” Strife said gently.

 

Ares snorted quietly, “Sure, whatever.”

 

Strife pulled back to look at him, “Ares, give it time, you’ll find someone who you can really care about, and who’ll care about you.”

 

“Really?” Ares asked in a tiny, hopeful voice.

 

Strife almost smiled, “Yeah. And when you do, I bet you’ll be even more lovey-dovey than me an’ Cupe.”

 

Ares half laughed shakily, “You reckon?”

 

“Hell yeah!” Strife smiled gently.

 

“Strife?”

 

“Yeah?”

 

“How do you stand it, I mean how can you cope with not really seeing Cupid?” Ares asked gently.

 

Strife frowned at the unexpected question. “I, because I…” he stopped and sucked in a surprised breath.

 

“Strife, what?” Ares frowned.

 

“I love him, oh God, ‘Res, I love him,” Strife wasn’t sure whether to be terrified or ecstatic. He stared at Ares feeling a little shell-shocked. “’Res, I’m sorry, I need to see him, I have to talk to him.” Strife couldn’t explain, he just knew that he had to say the words to his lover, needed Cupid to know.

 

Ares smiled gently, “It’s okay, I’m okay. You go.” He hugged Strife tightly and Strife smiled gratefully at him.

 

Strife gave Ares one last hug and hurried back outside. Eris and Auto were waiting. He smiled softly at his cousin.

 

“The worst’s over, he just needs a bit of support,” he said quietly.

 

“Thanks, Strife,” Eris gave him a hug.

 

“No problem, “ he smiled at her. Strife knew that she found Ares’ sudden explosions of temper upsetting, so he tried to be the one to deal with it.

 

“Hey, where are you going?” Eris asked when he headed for the car.

 

“To see Cupe,” Strife flashed her a grin.

 

@>*~

 

He parked a short distance away from Cupid’s place and walked the rest of the way. The house was huge and he hoped that meant his lover’s bedroom was well away from his parents. Strife snuck round the building looking up at the windows.

 

It wasn’t too late and although all the lights downstairs were off, a couple upstairs were still on. When he reached what he guessed was Cupid’s room, he stopped and looked up again. He could see a slim silhouette moving around. Strife grinned, the trellis up against the wall made it far too easy. He climbed up carefully and hoisted himself onto the ledge outside Cupid’s window. He glanced through a gap in the curtains just to double check, and nearly fell. Cupid was undressing.

 

Strife took a better hold of the trellis, and watched until it looked like Cupid was about ready to go to bed, then he knocked quietly on the window. Cupid froze, then he turned very slowly and stared uncertainly at the window. Strife knocked again, keeping it quiet.

 

Cupid approached the window cautiously and opened the curtain. Strife grinned and Cupid rolled his eyes. He opened the window.

 

“Christ, Strife! You scared the shit out of me, what are you doing here?” Cupid whispered.

 

“Sorry, I had to see you,” Strife whispered. “You gonna let me in?”

 

Cupid glanced nervously at his door. “’Course,” he whispered, “Just be really quiet, ‘kay?”

 

Strife nodded and Cupid helped him haul himself inside. Cupid closed the curtains tightly.

 

“My parents are still up and I have no lock on my door,” Cupid whispered.

 

Strife raised an eyebrow, “Well, shut up and kiss me then.”

 

Cupid grinned suddenly, “Sorry. C’mere.” He pulled Strife into his arms and their lips met gently, parting slowly for their tongues to join in. Strife moaned quietly, almost forgetting why he’d come over in the first place. He gently pulled away and stroked Cupid’s cheek.

 

Part 12

 

“What is it, baby?” Cupid asked quietly.

 

“Just, I have to tell you something,” Strife said with a nervous hitch in his breath, “Some crap happened today and I realised something.”

 

“What happened?” Cupid asked in concern.

 

“S’okay, Ares just had a load of shit happen, he blew a gasket. I had to talk him down, and he asked me how I could stand not really seeing you much,” Strife stopped and sighed. Cupid took his hand and led him to the bed where they sat down.

 

“And?”

 

“Well, it’s just, that I…” Strife took a deep breath, he’d worked himself into a bit of a nervous state now. Cupid cupped his face gently, stroking his cheek. Strife sighed, leaning into the caress. “Cupid,” Strife swallowed hard.

 

“Yeah,” Cupid looked a little worried. Before Strife could continue, there was a knock at the door.

 

“Cupid?”

 

“’Sec, mom,” Cupid called out. He stared wildly at Strife. “Shit,“ he whispered, “Hide!”

 

Strife rolled off the bed and under it. Cupid got up and opened the door. “Yes, mom?”

 

“What are you doing in there?” his mother asked.

 

“Nothing, I was just reading,” Cupid replied quietly.

 

“Well, don’t. Go to bed.”

 

“Yes, mom,” Cupid sighed.

 

“Good boy, night night.”

 

“Night, mom.” Cupid closed his door and turned out the light. Strife crawled out from under the bed and sat down again. Cupid turned on his bedside lamp and sat down next to him. Strife stared down at his feet, the interruption had made him even more nervous.

 

“Strife?” Cupid touched his hand gently.

 

Strife’s heart stopped pounding quite so frantically and he looked up, meeting Cupid’s eyes. The tender concern he saw in his lover’s expression gave him enough courage to carry on.

 

“Cupe, I just… I want you to know,” he paused, “I need you to know that I…”

 

“What?” Cupid prompted quietly.

 

Strife lifted Cupid’s hand and kissed it gently. “I love you, Cupid,” he whispered. He took a deep breath and held it hopefully. Cupid stared at him for a second, then a smile spread slowly over his face. Strife let out his breath in a soft sigh.

 

“Strife,” Cupid whispered. He reached out and ran his fingers down the side of Strife’s face. “I wanted to tell you, so many times. I love you too.”

 

Strife leaned forward and gently licked Cupid’s lips. Cupid made a tiny noise and turned round, heaving Strife onto the bed and following quickly. Strife pulled his lover down on top of him and wrapped his arms and legs round him.

 

“God, I need you,” Cupid whispered, thrusting against him.

 

“Oh please, lover,” Strife gasped. He thrust his hands down Cupid’s shorts and grasped his ass, pulling him closer.

 

“Damn, I wish I could just make your clothes disappear,” Cupid whispered.

 

Strife chuckled breathlessly. “Yeah, me too.” He pulled Cupid down for a quick kiss then pushed him back. “Need you naked,” he whispered, sitting up to pull his shirt off. Cupid groaned and quickly stripped off his shorts and t-shirt, before he batted Strife’s hands aside and tugged urgently at his pants.

 

As soon as he’d been stripped, Strife got up on his hands and knees. Cupid groaned quietly.

 

“Oh God, Strife!”

 

Strife looked back at his lover, “Cupe, I need you inside me so bad. Please take me.”

 

Cupid sucked in a ragged breath and nodded, “God, yes!” He crawled onto the bed behind Strife and leaned over him, stroking his back and down to his ass. He leaned over to the bedside table and rummaged around as he slowly rubbed his cock between the cheeks of Strife’s ass.

 

Strife moaned quietly, pushing back against the hard length eagerly. Cupid patted his hip gently and finally pulled something out of the drawer. Strife gasped at the feel of something cold and creamy dropping onto his ass. Cupid chuckled.

 

“Sorry,” he whispered. Strife didn’t get a chance to answer as a finger pressed inside him and he bit back a yelp. Strife pushed back against the exploring digit and sighed happily when a second joined it, reaching deep inside him. Cupid’s fingers pumped quickly into him, brushing over his prostate. Strife dropped his head into his arms and bit down on his arm to keep himself from crying out.

 

“Please, Cupe, please,” he gasped eventually, when three fingers were no longer enough.

 

Cupid removed his fingers and leaned over Strife to kiss his neck gently. “I love you,” he whispered as he pushed into Strife slowly.

 

Strife panted harshly, concentrating on relaxing, waiting for the point where the pain and discomfort would be replaced with pleasure. When it came, he shoved his hips backwards, taking Cupid’s full length in one stroke.

 

“Jesus, Strife!” Cupid squeaked. He gripped Strife’s hips tightly and pulled back almost completely, before plunging back into his lover.

 

“Oh yes, like that!” Strife moaned as quietly as he could, “Do it, Cupid please, need to feel you.”

 

Cupid bent over him again and bit his neck gently, “Feels so good, baby,” he whispered. Then he started to thrust into Strife, gently at first. But as Strife thrust back against him, urging him on, Cupid began to move faster, gradually driving deeper inside his lover.

 

Strife bit down on his arm, trying to hold back the wild cries that threatened to explode from his mouth. He thrust his hips back against Cupid more and more wildly. It felt so good having his lover so deep inside him, as though they were the same person.

 

He buried his face in his arms as Cupid reached round and grasped his cock firmly. The strong grip, stroking gently, drove him wild and he bucked against his lover desperately.

 

“Oh Cupe, harder, please,” he gasped. His lover moaned and slammed into him hard, pushing him forward into his hand. Strife managed to muffle his yell as he came, jerking against Cupid, his ass clamping down tightly.

 

Cupid buried his face in his neck, whimpering as he began to buck against Strife’s ass. Strife felt the warmth of Cupid’s release and allowed himself to drop down onto the bed.

 

Cupid fell with him, covering his body gently and nuzzling his neck. They lay like that for several minutes recovering their breath, then Cupid rolled them over onto their sides, wrapping his arms round Strife.

 

Strife sighed happily and snuggled back into the warm embrace.

 

Cupid’s fingers skimmed up and down his side, before his hand settled

on Strife’s chest, palm over his heart.

After a while, Strife found himself drifting off, so  he pulled away

reluctantly. Cupid mumbled, he was already asleep. Strife got dressed

quietly, then he sat on the bed, gently stroking Cupid’s hair.

“Cupe?” he whispered.

Cupid stirred, “Hmm?” He blinked up at Strife.

“I gotta go, babe.”

Cupid pouted and Strife chuckled, leaning down to gently suck on the

protruding bottom lip.

“Monday?” Strife asked, pulling back with a sigh.

“Monday,” Cupid nodded. Cupid got up to open the window for him. Strife

climbed down the trellis and looked up. Cupid smiled down at him.

“I love you,” Strife whispered loudly.

“I love you too,” Cupid called out quietly.

Strife walked back to the car, slightly slower than usual due to the

pleasant burn in his ass.

He had a silly grin plastered over his face, one which lasted him the

rest of the weekend, despite Eris’ teasing.

Part 13 

Strife found it hard to wait till lunch time. Every time he saw Cupid,

he had to stop himself from grinning at him or going to hug him or

anything like that. Every now and again, though, their eyes met and

they would share a small, tender smile.

Just before lunch, Strife drifted close to where Cupid was chatting

with Gabrielle. He stiffened when he realised Gabrielle was

trying to persuade Cupid to take her out, and sidled closer to listen.

“Oh come on, Cupid. It’ll be fun, we could go and get something to eat

after, just you and me,” she giggled. Strife bristled, only holding on

to his self-control by a hair.

“Gabby, you know I can’t, okay,” Cupid replied with a sigh. He looked

up and saw Strife and he pulled an apologetic face.

Gabrielle made a noise suspiciously like a snarl. “Fine, I’m sure I’ll

find someone who wants to go with me.” She turned abruptly and almost

walked into Strife. Strife was surprised to see her smile suddenly.

“Strife,” she said silkily. “Everyone knows how much you want me, well

today’s your lucky day!” she hauled him close and kissed him.

Strife made a small noise and stood there stunned while she kissed him.

When his brain registered what was happening, he shoved her away,

wiping at his lips and hacking loudly. He looked up at Cupid but he was

already stalking away.

“You stupid bitch!” he exclaimed, “What did you do that for?”

Gabrielle looked startled. “What?” she gasped. “But, but, you’ve always

wanted me!”

“Oh, get over yourself!” Strife shouted, “Anyway, you think kissing

me’s going to make Cupid jealous?” He snorted loudly. Inside, Strife

was panicking, of course it made Cupid jealous, but not for the reason

she would want. He had to get away and find his lover.

She carried on blinking at him and Strife shook his head, pushing past

her to get away quickly. He hurried to the library, hoping Cupid would

be waiting, because he had no idea where else he might go to hide. 

But Cupid wasn’t there. Strife leaned back against a stack and closed

his eyes taking a deep, shaky breath. Now he was really scared. He

spent the lunch break wandering around the school trying to find his

lover. He needed to talk to him.

When he finally found Cupid, his lover was sitting with Hercules and

Iolaus. Strife sighed and sat down opposite, trying to meet Cupid’s

eyes. His boyfriend ignored him, laughing about something with

Hercules. The one time their eyes met, the hurt in Cupid’s nearly made

Strife cry on the spot.

The rest of the day was hell. He could not get Cupid alone, he even

tried to follow him home, but Cupid got a lift from his mother, and

didn’t even look round, even though he knew Strife was right there.

Strife wandered home slowly, arms wrapped tightly around himself. How

could he explain to Cupid that nothing had happened, if he wouldn’t

listen. Gabrielle had kissed him, but he hadn’t kissed back or felt

anything.

He went to his room, instead of the guesthouse and lay back on his bed,

staring at the ceiling, his thoughts in a turmoil. He couldn’t cope

with losing Cupid now, not after what they’d shared on Saturday.

He didn’t know how much later it was when a knock disturbed him.

“Who is it?” he called out disinterestedly. The door opened and Ares

came in slowly.

“Strife?” Ares frowned at him, “Are you okay?” He sounded a little

confused.

“Sure,” Strife said tonelessly.

“What’s happened?” Ares sat down on the bed and squeezed his arm.

“Nothing.”

“Strife.”

Strife sighed, “Cupid…”

“What did he do?!” Ares exclaimed, interrupting him.

“Nothing, ‘Res. Gabrielle kissed me, Cupid wasn’t happy.”

Ares frowned, “But… what?”

“Never mind, look I just want to be alone, please ‘Res,” Strife looked

at Ares for the first time since he’d entered the room. Ares stared at

him for a moment, then nodded.

“You know where I am if you want to talk,” Ares said quietly.

“Yeah,” Strife whispered, “Thanks.”

Ares patted his arm and left him to his misery. Strife got ready for

bed listlessly, he just couldn’t take his mind off Cupid’s hurt

expression and his chest hurt with suppressed tears. It wasn’t really

late, but he went to bed anyway and continued to stare at the ceiling,

in the dark this time.

Several hours later, he couldn’t stand it any longer and he got up,

sneaking down to Rita’s room for a soft, warm, comforting cuddle. He

knew she wouldn’t ask him any awkward questions, but just hold him

until he cried himself to sleep.

He opened the door to her room and called out her name softly. There

was no answer but he crept into the room and crawled into bed.

“Rita?” he whispered. “Can I sleep with you tonight?”

Normally by now, Rita would have pulled him into a hug and settled

down, stroking his hair. He frowned into the darkness. “Rit?”

Reaching out slowly, he shook her gently. “Rit?” his voice was thick

with worry. Quickly he turned on the bedside lamp, and he stared at her

pale, peaceful face. He shook her again. “Rit, please,” he begged. He

touched her cheek gently, she was already cool to the touch.

“No,” he whispered, “No, no, no, no, NO!” His voice rose gradually to a

scream and he dropped his head onto her chest, painful sobs racking his

body.

He was vaguely aware of someone pulling him away from Rita, although he

tried to cling to her desperately. He was drawn into a strong hug and the

smell of pipe tobacco identified his uncle. He burrowed into the

embrace.

After that Strife wasn’t really aware of what was happening, people

talked to him, tried to comfort him, but it just didn’t register. He

was numb. He hadn’t cried since he’d found Rita’s body, he just

couldn’t. What he wanted, needed, he wasn’t going to get, it was

pointless to think about it.

He allowed himself to be looked after and the day of the funeral, his

tearful cousins dressed him and led him to the car, thankfully Alcmene

and Hercules were not going. It was a grey, rainy day, rather

appropriately, he thought. They stood around the grave, listening to

the Reverend. Ares and Eris had their arms wrapped round each other and

they cried quietly. They’d tried to include Strife in the hug, but he’d

pulled away. He stood staring at Rita’s coffin, shoulders hunched,

hands buried deep in his pockets, silent tears flowing down his face. 

A gentle touch to the small of his back made him jump and he looked

round. 

“Cupid?” he whispered. Cupid very gently stroked his cheek, wiping away

tears and rain. Strife flung himself into his lover’s arms and held on

tightly. Cupid wrapped strong arms around him, rocking him slowly for

the rest of the service.  

When the first clod of earth hit Rita’s coffin, Strife turned away,

burying his face in Cupid’s neck. Cupid rubbed his back soothingly,

gently kissing his hair. Strife turned his head, searching blindly for

Cupid’s lips. His lover kissed him, quickly acquiescing to his urgency.

Strife had needed this, this love, this comfort since that night, and

he had been sure that he would never feel Cupid’s touch again. He

grasped Cupid’s face, plunging his tongue desperately into his lover’s

mouth.

“Ahem.” Someone cleared their throat behind them. They pulled apart and

looked round. The priest was staring at them in disgust. “This isn’t

very appropriate behaviour, really, is it?”

“Leave them alone.” Strife stared at his uncle in surprise. “If my

nephew needs his boyfriend for comfort, then that’s what he needs.”

“Thank you, uncle Zeus,” Strife whispered. Zeus gave him an awkward

smile, nodding at Cupid. Cupid gently led him away, to where Ares and

Eris were waiting by their car. Ares clapped Cupid’s shoulder and

smiled briefly.

Part 14

Back at the guesthouse, Ares showed Cupid his room, and he took Strife

in. Strife smiled gratefully at his cousin before Ares left the room.

Cupid didn’t say anything, he seemed to realise that Strife just needed

to feel. He stripped off his clothes and undressed Strife, kissing him

hard. Strife moaned, allowing Cupid to take over.

He was pushed gently over to the bed, but gentle wasn’t what he needed.

He let himself fall back onto the bed and yanked Cupid down on top of

him. He thrust up urgently.

“Strife?” Cupid whispered.

“I need to feel again,” Strife stared up at his lover, “Fuck me.”

Cupid took a deep breath and kissed him, rocking against him

desperately. Strife delved his tongue deeply into Cupid’s mouth and

gripped his shoulders tightly as he thrust back quickly. Then he pushed

Cupid away and turned onto his hands and knees, reaching towards Ares’

bedside table, searching for lube. 

Cupid was already rubbing his asshole firmly and he moaned. When he

finally found the small tube, he twisted round and rubbed the clear gel

onto Cupid’s cock. Cupid groaned, humping his hand. Strife kissed him

hard and then turned round again. He needed Cupid, he needed to feel

his lover so deep inside him that he touched his heart and he could

feel better.

“In me now,” he ordered. 

“Oh God,” Cupid whispered. Strife pushed back as soon as he felt

Cupid’s cock at his hole and Cupid pushed into him hard. It hurt, but

Strife didn’t care, he knew the pain would ease quickly.

“Harder,” he whispered. Cupid groaned loudly and pulled back, before

slamming harder inside him. “Yes, Cupe, fuck me hard.”

Cupid pounded into him mercilessly and Strife thrust his hips back to

meet every stroke, groaning loudly. It felt wonderful, but he needed

more. He pushed himself up and Cupid wrapped his arms round his chest,

pulling him up into his lap. Strife lifted himself up and impaled

himself hard on Cupid’s length.

“Oh fuck,” he groaned, Cupid was deeper inside him than he’d been

before. Cupid dropped his head onto his shoulder with a groan.

“Oh God, baby,” Cupid whispered hoarsely. Strife twisted his head back

and kissed his lover fiercely, riding him as hard as he could. Cupid

gripped his hips and rammed into him, reaching round to grasp his cock,

stroking roughly. 

They panted against each other’s lips, moving together urgently, bodies

synchronous.

“I love you,” Cupid whispered. Strife jerked against him, his head

dropping back and he screamed as he came. His ass gripped Cupid’s cock

tightly and he felt his lover stiffen before his passage was filled

with wet heat. His eyes burned with tears and he slipped out of Cupid’s

embrace onto the bed, crying mutely.

Cupid curled up behind him and held him close, gently kissing his neck

and murmuring soft endearments. When his tears finally eased, Strife turned round in Cupid’s arms and he looked at his lover silently.

“What, love?” Cupid asked quietly.

“Thank you,” Strife whispered, he touched Cupid’s face gently. “But…”

“But what, baby?” Cupid asked.

“Why?” Strife couldn’t think of anything else to say.

“I had to, baby, I love you. I know how much Rita meant to you, how could I not come?” Cupid hugged him closer.

“Even after…”

Cupid laughed softly, “I’m sorry about that, I overreacted. After I had some time to think, I realised it was all Gabby.”

Strife sighed, “I was so scared, I thought I’d lost you.” He closed his eyes in remembered pain.

“Shh, baby, I know. I wasn’t thinking. I just… when I saw her kissing you, I couldn’t take it,” Cupid frowned in distress.

“Cupe, I love you, I wouldn’t cheat on you, ever,” Strife whispered seriously.

Cupid met his eyes for a moment, then he nodded. “I know,” he whispered.

“Especially not with that skank-ass ho!” Strife said with a small grin.

Cupid stared at him for a split second, before he burst out laughing. Strife’s grin grew wider and he snuggled closer again with a small sigh. Cupid stroked his hair gently.

“Cupe?” Strife looked up.

“Yeah?”

“Shouldn’t you be in school?”

Cupid smiled and kissed him gently, “I skipped school.”

“What about your folks?” Strife asked worriedly.

“S’okay, baby, I usually have football practise after school, they won’t be expecting me for a while,” Cupid explained.

Strife sighed happily and nodded, allowing Cupid to pull him close again. Then another thought occurred to him.

“Cupe?” he pulled back slightly.

Cupid chuckled softly, “Yes, Strife?”

“How did you know about today?” Strife asked quietly. He frowned when he felt Cupid stiffen. “Cupid?”

Cupid pulled a face, “Hercules. He was having a laugh about you being a wuss over a servant dying, that you screamed like a girl.” Cupid shook his head, “God, it took everything I had not to punch him out!”

Strife reached up and smoothed out Cupid’s frown and gently stroked Cupid’s jaw until it unclenched.

“I’m just glad you came, Cupid. I needed you so much,” Strife whispered.

“I’ll always be here for you, love,” Cupid gave him a small kiss.

“I love you too, Cupe,” Strife smiled and kissed him back.

Epilogue 

Approx a year and a half later

“’Res?” Strife frowned, “’Res?!” Strife shook his head, his cousin was completely oblivious. Strife tried to see what he was staring at, but all he could see was a young, geeky looking guy who looked terrified. Then it hit Strife that it *was* the guy that Ares was staring at.

“Hey, ‘Ris?” he whispered.

“What?” she hissed back, distracted from her cellphone.

“Who’s that kid ‘Res is staring at?” Strife asked. Eris blinked in surprise and followed her brother’s gaze.

“I have no idea. Isn’t he sweet? He looks like a deer caught in headlights!” Eris grinned at her brother, who was still oblivious. “Hey, doofus!” she whacked Ares on the shoulder, “He looks like he needs rescuing, why don’t you volunteer?”

Ares jumped and flushed, “Huh, what?”

“The cute one with all the books?” Ares looked blank. “Oh, now come on, you’ve been staring!” she said in a sing song voice to tease him.

“I have not! And besides, he’s sixteen!” Ares paused and flushed again as he realised what he’d said.

“Uh huh, not staring my ass!” Strife chuckled. “Is he the new kid, who’s starting in our year?” he asked more seriously. Ares nodded slowly. “Oh man, I do *not* envy him! He’s prime Hercules fodder!”

Ares frowned, “We’ll see.”

@>*~

A semester later

Strife watched Ares with a grin and nudged Eris.

“What?” she glanced at him.

Strife snickered, “He’s staring *again*”

Eris smiled, “Really?” She followed Ares’ gaze, her brother, as usual these days, completely oblivious of their conversation. “You know I thought it was just a thing, but he’s really fallen hasn’t he?” she said delightedly.

“Hook, line and sinker, cuz,” Strife chuckled, “Hook, line and sinker!”

He watched his cousin, smiling gently at the rapt expression. The object of his attention, as it had been all year, Joxer, the sixteen year old who had joined their grade at the beginning of the year.

The poor guy was having a tough time of it. He was young, skinny, geeky, intensely intelligent, blindingly shy and was unfortunate enough to have a stutter. But there was something very endearing about him, Strife could understand what Ares saw in the guy. He had a very good feeling about it all, it was about time Ares found someone!

Ares let out a snarl and Strife frowned. Someone had tripped Joxer, and the kid had gone flying. Ares stood abruptly and made his way over, stooping to pick something up. Strife and Eris hurried after him. Ares stopped in front of Joxer and the boy looked up nervously.

“Lost something?” Ares asked quietly.

“M-my g-glasses,” Joxer whispered.

Ares lifted his hand, “Would this be them?”

Joxer blinked and nodded, “Please, c-can I h-h-h…” Strife winced sympathetically. Joxer took a deep breath. “Have them,” he said in a rush.

Ares stared at him, Strife could tell he was a little nervous. He bent down and patted Joxer’s cheek.

“As ya asked so nicely.” Ares dropped the glasses on the floor and hurried away.

Strife caught Eris’ eye and they grinned at each other, before following after him. Strife couldn’t wait to see Cupid to tell him!

The beginning :)