Cinaed

He’s not really planning on riding out to the border, but he can’t tell Finan the real reason for his absence. At least not yet. Not until he finishes preparing his love’s surprise, which he is desperately hoping to have ready in time for their anniversary. One year ago he married his best-friend. The one who has held his heart since the first time he laid eyes on him on the Trader, and he wants to make this anniversary special. To make up for cutting their honeymoon short, and hurting his husband in the worse possible way.

“I promise, I’ll be careful…I’ll even take some men with me.” Uhtred gives his Irishman his best puppy dog eyes, knowing Finan can’t resist them.

“I’ll make it up to you when I return…” Uhtred purrs with a seductive look in his eyes and a playful smirk.

When Finan huffs out a sigh of resignation, Uhtred can’t help but smile. He pulls Finan into a heated kiss, already imagining the special night he has planned for them. “Watch over Lachlan for me?” Uhtred softly asks, with tenderness in his voice.

When Finan nods yes, the Dane breathes a sigh of relief. He only trusts Elle, Finan and Revna to watch over his little boy. “Thank you, baby. I love you so much.” Uhtred places another gentle kiss on Finan’s lips, feeling his Irishman’s hesitation in letting him go. Hel, he’s hesitant to let him go too. The temptation to drag him back into their chambers is so strong, but he has to get this done.

“Give the girls my love, and apologize to Tora for me for taking her friend.” Uhtred smirks. Hati has become more her companion than his, but he likes the extra protection the wolf offers him especially when he’s away from home.

Before he loses his resolve, Uhtred places another kiss on Finan’s palm before striding out of the Hall, calling for Hati to follow on his way out. He had asked the guardsmen to prepare Tintreg for him, and his stallion is already stomping his feet eager for the ride. Another horse is loaded with supplies he will need to finish his project.

Clicking at Tintreg, Uhtred leads the horse to the village, or rather the outskirts. He had asked Cinaed the night of the celebration for their wedding if he could steal his husband for a day or two to help him with his project. He hopes that is still alright. As he nears the cottage set off in the woods, a smile comes to his face. The lovebirds have had a week to enjoy their honeymoon, hopefully they are ready to venture out.

Dismounting his horse, Uhtred walks to the door and knocks. He stands there a little nervously. Gunnar is an imposing man, even to him, and he wouldn’t want to get on the Northman’s bad side. Uhtred’s brows furrow as he waits with Hati beside him.

Is that growling I hear…

@askuhtredragnarson

“Yeah, you better make it up to me. And you better be careful.” The Irishman pouts.

Why isn’t he asking me to go with him?

I’m always at your side…

Despite the past year being much more homemaking than Finan has ever been used to, he doesn’t necessarily miss too much of the strife they’ve been through in recent years. Traveling with Uhtred, though… he misses it. Being on the road, camping by rivers, hunting with his Lord and his brothers. To live in Bebbanburg is an actual dream come true, but sometimes the Irishman yearns for some of the happenings not so long ago. Stolen glances and touches included, not limited to actually jumping each other’s bones in the forest after that one lustful night.

Finan is suspicious. But perhaps Uhtred just wants some time on his own. With all the raucous of their household, that’s reasonable. Right?

The Irishman nods about Lachlan, and he nods about the girls. Of course he’d make sure everything would stay in order. Even if his sanity is walking out the door.

“Goodbye, husband. Return to me.” Finan drawls in a loving voice with sparkling dark eyes.

“If you bring someone else home, you know that I’ll kill them.” He smiles when Uhtred laughs at that.

***

As they lay upon the furs on the floor by the hearth, it’s a miracle that the lovers are clothed. In this moment they are, just taking a cat nap together on the floor with Luca.

“Hey,” Cinaed says in a teasing warning when Gunnar growls at the knock at the door. Then Luca barks, loudly.

“Hey!” The prince scolds them. It’s a familiar smell. It’s Uhtred, definitely. Cinaed’s newest senses don’t allow him to forget anything these days. He stands and swings the door open despite Gunnar’s growls.

“Lord Uhtred, hello.” The prince says with a smile. “What brings you all the way out here?”

Shit, did I already piss him off…

Uhtred clears his throat then returns his smile to Cinaed. The young man is absolutely glowing. Marriage suits him. “So, uh…remember when I asked if I could steal your husband away for a couple of days to help me finish a surprise for your father? I was kind of hoping it could be now. Our anniversary is only a few days away and the only way it’ll be ready in time is if I have a little help.”

When Gunnar approaches the door, he quirks an eyebrow at his husband, an almost playful look in his eyes despite the firmness of his features. Uhtred takes it as if maybe Cinaed hasn’t had a chance to mention it to the big Northman. He can’t blame him, he’s sure their focus has been entirely on each other since their wedding.

“Gunnar.” Uhtred gives the warrior a nod in greeting. “As I was saying…I was hoping you could come with me for a couple days and help me finish the surprise I’ve been working on for Finan. I’ve been working on it for the last few months and it’s so close to being done. I just need to have it completed by Lughnasadh.”

Uhtred watches as Gunnar protectively takes his husband’s hand as he looks first in Cinaed’s eyes and then his. “I would be happy to come help, but I won’t leave my husband behind. I only go if he goes too.” There is a little bit of a challenge in the Northman’s eyes, along with something else the Dane isn’t quite sure of. Maybe protectiveness, like he is guarding something precious.

“Fair enough…the more the merrier. Bring him, and your pup.” Uhtred’s smile turns into a smirk as he nods at Gunnar. “I trust both of you can keep a secret?” Uhtred’s not sure why he even asks that. There is so much mystery surrounding the couple. Things he has yet to learn about them.

“It’s a few hours ride to the spot. I have food and supplies, and I figured we could spent the night there. It’s a special place I took Finan to one time.” Uhtred explains.

…months? What could Uhtred possibly have been working on for months? Cinaed thinks. He did sort of offer his husband’s help without him knowing, but the little smirk the Northman gives him tells him it’ll be okay. Or that he’ll be punished for it later. Or both.

“Don’t worry, darling. I’ll come. Just let me pack a few things…” Cinaed grins, squeezing Gunnar’s hand before letting him go and whistling for Luca.

“Uhtred, come on in.” The prince says, swinging their door open wider for the Dane.

I trust both of you can keep a secret?

Cinaed gives Gunnar a playful smile before looking back at Uhtred. “Oh, we are very, very good at it…” he almost snickers.

“I’ll pack us some food as well. Luca is um…” the prince looks down at their pup. Just don’t shift in front of Uhtred, stinker. Instead of finishing his sentence, the prince just moves to grab a pack and fill it with a few of their non-negotiables and some changes of clothes. Then, he heads to the kitchen to pack a few more supplies.

“Few hours ride?” Cinaed asks. “So what is this place to you? Tell us the story.” The prince smiles.

Uhtred is shaken from his musing when Cinaed asks about the special place he’s taking them to. “Oh, uh…it’s a special place I found as a child. When Bebbanburg was my home, before I lost it to my uncle. My father was a cruel man, and I think he only ever saw me as a nuisance. His attention was always focused on my older brother, the heir of Bebbanburg. I used to go out, deep into the forest, to get away from him. Play and explore for days before I would return home. He barely noticed my absence.

One day I found this special place. A small valley meadow surrounded by hills and large rocks. There is a hidden path to it, so I doubt anyone knows about it. A gorgeous waterfall is there and a crystal clear pool of water where I would splash and play for hours. Behind the waterfall is a small cave where I would sleep. It’s beautiful, almost like a fairytale…” Uhtred smiles wistfully as he thinks about his favorite place. It feels almost magical, and maybe that’s why he was so drawn to it.

After Cinaed gathers the supplies, they head outside where the horses and Hati are waiting. Uhtred watches as Gunnar pulls his brown stallion out of the stable with and another almost white horse. Uhtred watches curiously as Hati tucks his tail when Gunnar gets near, giving the warrior obedient eyes.

“Do you want to ride with me, baby?” Gunnar asks his husband as Cinaed clutches Luca to his chest. The Dane can see in the warrior’s eyes that he wants him to, and a soft smile comes to Uhtred’s face. You wouldn’t think it looking at Gunnar, cause he’s such a formidable warrior, but he has such tenderness when he looks into his husband’s eyes. It reminds Uhtred of him and Finan.

The Dane waits to tell the rest of the story about the first time he took Finan there, until they are on the road.

“I think we have everything we need.” The prince softly muses, following the two men outside. He carries Luca and whispers a few sweet words to Hati, if only to calm him a little in Gunnar’s presence… so that Uhtred hopefully won’t notice.

“Yes, please…” The prince purrs to his husband, taking Gunnar’s hand and swiftly mounting up once the packs are secured. He can’t really imagine being two feet or more from Gunnar ever again. Not before, and definitely not after they felt the fluttering of their pup in his belly.

“So, this place is already naturally beautiful…” Cinaed muses to Uhtred as they get on the road.

“… what exactly has taken you months, and now more effort to achieve, Lord?”

Honestly, he just wants to see the prince and Northman’s reaction, without spoiling the surprise. Uhtred and Gunnar’s horses ride side by side, with the pack horses following. The Dane smiles when Luca falls asleep in Cinaed’s arms, the prince whispering tender words in the pup’s ears. You would think the pup is their child with how doting they are to him, and perhaps he is, like a child to them.

“So, this place is special to you and Finan?” Gunnar softly asks as he shares a glance with the Dane. His arm is tenderly wrapped around Cinaed’s waist, fingers splayed on the prince’s stomach.

A bittersweet smile comes to the Dane’s face, remembering the events leading up to him taking his husband to the waterfall. “It was my attempt to show my husband how special he is to me…after almost losing him.”

“Losing him? Finan looks at you as if you’re the only person in the room.” Gunnar gives the Dane a confused look.

“I hurt him…in the worst possible way.” Uhtred shakes his head letting out a soft sigh. “I should have postponed our march to Bebbanburg after our wedding, given us more time as newlyweds. Enjoyed our honeymoon a little bit longer…

…but I was anxious to give him and our family a home. To give them Bebbanburg where they would all be safe.” Uhtred shares a glance with Gunnar and Cinaed, regret heavy in his eyes.

“I almost died from that battle, and I ripped out my husband’s heart in the process. If it wouldn’t have been for Revna saving me…” Uhtred shakes his head again. The thought of the heartbreak his husband felt, not knowing if he was going to live or die, kills him inside. They were supposed to be celebrating their victory after defeating Wihtgar, celebrating their new home. Instead, his husband kept vigil over him, hoping and praying he would wake up.

“After I woke up, all I wanted was to be close to my husband. To feel him…to…” touch him. Uhtred trails off as mistiness comes to his eyes and he quickly blinks it away. “I didn’t understand the pain Finan was in, seeing me like that. The fear he felt almost losing me. I said some hurtful things. I lashed out at him, because every time I tried to pull him close he begged distanced from me.

Finan was so upset with me…and rightfully so, he ordered the guardsmen to pack up his and Revna’s belongings. Said they were going to return to Ulaid, and leave me behind. Revna talked some sense into me, helped me to understand the pain Finan was in. I sought out my husband to make things right.” 

Uhtred lets out a soft chuckle. “He did not make it easy on me, but thankfully he accepted my apology. I told him I wanted to take him away. To someplace special to make it up to him. So I took him to my waterfall, and we spent a few days there just reconnecting. Reminding each other how much we love one another.”

Cinaed listens intently to Uhtred’s words, his heart empathizing instantly. To be quite honest, he doesn’t understand the polyamory. He’d rather die than see Gunnar’s hands on another. And if another put their hand on him, he’d sever it from their arm with his sword. Regardless, for Finan and Uhtred, it just seems to… work for them. The free love. And there’s nothing wrong with that, he supposes, because they are dedicated to each other within their little circle. When Uhtred mentions almost losing his life and the pain his father suffered for it, the prince feels Gunnar’s hold tighten around him, no doubt reliving the pain he himself felt when Cinaed fell.

“It was like a second honeymoon,” the prince muses with a beaming smile.

Gods, Finan is so stubborn. He literally almost left him?

“My father is really pig headed it seems. But… perhaps he just wanted to see you fight for him.” Cinaed smirks at Uhtred.

“You too seem to have a very special relationship. Best friends? I can see how that would quickly turn fervent, in the right circumstances.”

The Dane chuckles at Cinaed’s pig headed comment about his father, a smirk curling his lips. “It doesn’t help that I’m sometimes a bastard. It wasn’t the first argument we’ve had, but hopefully it was the last. Revna helps both of us see the fault in our ways when we are both being stubborn. She seems to be the only one that can talk sense into us.”

“I know it seems a bit unorthodox…Revna and I sharing Finan.” Uhtred shares a look with the Northman, understanding if he is not keen on the idea of his daughter’s husband being with another. “…but it works between us. I have the upmost respect for your daughter, she is a beautiful woman with a loving soul. We both balance Finan in different ways. I give him strength and she gives him tenderness and understanding. We both love him with all our hearts, and I would protect her with my life just as I would Finan. We are a family.”

Gunnar gives the Dane a nod. He doesn’t seem to look down on him, and Uhtred appreciates that. The Northman may not fully understand, Hel most people don’t, but Uhtred wouldn’t trade it for the world.

“Yes, best friends. We met on the Trader, when I was sold into slavery. I’m sure you’ve heard the stories of how your father ended up there.” Uhtred shares a knowing look with Cinaed. He’s sure everyone in Ulaid knows the story of the dark prince. “I was betrayed by someone I considered a friend, me and one of my men. If it hadn’t been for Finan, I don’t think I would have made it off that ship alive. He was my rock, the one who gave me strength. But it would be over a decade later before we shared our true feelings for one another.”

As they draw near the secret meadow, Uhtred leads Gunnar and Cinaed to a hidden path between two boulders. The trail is narrow and winding, but before too long they come out on the other side. A lush green meadow before them with the sound of rushing water from the waterfall. Uhtred smiles when the one room cabin he has been building comes into view. It’s nestled in-between some large trees, close to the pool of water from the waterfall. The main part left to finish is the roof, the rest of the cabin has been framed and boards put up for walls. A medium sized window on the front next to the door, and another window on the side facing the waterfall.

Uhtred nods towards his creation, proud of the work he has finished so far. “The roof needs completed, and finishing touches inside to make it feel cozy. Think your father will like it?” Uhtred looks at Cinaed with a playful smirk on his face.

“We would never dream of judging your situation, especially when it appears so healthy and full of love.” Cinaed assures Uhtred. He really likes him. He likes all of them, regardless of not being quite comfortable at the fortress yet.

“I’ve heard the stories. I was young, but… I was there.” Cinaed says, offering a placating smile. It’s not a time he likes to look back on. The ripple effect of those events lasted in Ulaid for years.

“… a decade?!” Cinaed repeats incredulously. How?! The prince can’t imagine that.

The prince’s words are quickly stifled when the cottage Uhtred has been building comes into view, nestled close to the beautiful waterfall and a pool of the clearest waters. It’s perfect. Serenity at its finest.

“Uhtred… of course,” Cinaed answers him when he asks if his father will like it. What’s better than a cottage far from anyone else to spend some fervent time with the person who holds your heart? The prince can definitely relate.

“He’ll love it!”

“Good…I’m glad to hear it. I want it to be special for Finan. A place all our own that we can escape to when we need some alone time.” Uhtred has been wanting to give this to Finan for a long time. Sure they have their chambers in the fortress where they can spend time together, but sometimes they both just need to get back to their roots. To have a chance to decompress from the chaos of being Lords of Bebbanburg. Not to mention the fond memories of them and the forest.

As they near the cottage, Uhtred points at a wagon off to the side. “Furniture and household furnishing are in the wagon. Lots of furs, since Finan always complains that he’s freezing.” Uhtred chuckles. “The rest of the lumber for the roof is behind the wagon, and some bales of thatch to keep the roof from leaking. We should have everything we need to finish it.”

“So, I was thinking Gunnar and I could work on finishing the roof, if you want to start unpacking the supplies for inside?” Uhtred looks at Cinaed. He’s sure the prince will want to keep a close eye on the pup to make sure he stays out of the way so he doesn’t get hurt.

Gunnar helps Cinaed and Luca down from the horse. Their pup suddenly full of energy after his long nap. As soon as Cinaed sets him down on the ground, Luca starts chasing a butterfly, barking at it as he tries to catch it.

Before Cinaed heads to the wagon to see what’s inside, Gunnar grabs his hand and pulls him back towards him. “Leave the heavy furniture and boxes for me and Uhtred to carry in…okay? I don’t want you to get hurt.” Gunnar gives his husband a stern but tender look as his eyes trail down to his stomach then back to the prince’s eyes in some unspoken communication. Uhtred gives the two a curious look, wondering what that is all about.

The Dane turns away when he sees Gunnar cup Cinaed’s cheek and pull him into a tender kiss, trying to be respectful and give the lover’s some privacy. Hati follows little Luca around, almost like a mother hen, and Uhtred can’t help but chuckle. At least Cinaed and Gunnar will have another set of eyes watching over their pup.

Uhtred grabs some work gloves from his saddle bags while Cinaed and Gunnar finish their moment together. When the Northman approaches him, Uhtred smiles. “Ready to get started?” To which Gunnar nods.

“Sure, Lord.” The prince says with an unaffected tone despite his inner thoughts. He chuckles when his pup instantly bolts from his arms, then his worrisome husband pulls him close and gives him those tender eyes. Cinaed tilts his head at him as he speaks in that low, gravelly voice.

Wait… does that mean Uhtred knows? Is that why he suggested I stay off the roof? Fuck.

“Baby… I’ll be fine. I promise. It’s so early on, right? And my body is resilient. Very much so. Yeah?” Cinaed purrs, giving Gunnar a tender little kiss as the Northman cups his cheek. There’s no way the Dane knows. Perhaps he just… senses something.

“Better get cracking…” Cinaed grins teasingly as he pulls away. “Roof won’t finish itself!”

As the prince moves for some of the inner workings of the cottage, he ties his hair back and decides to just remove his tunic. The summer sun is quite warm, and hell, he might even take a dip while the oh so strong men work.

“I love both of you…” Gunnar cups Cinaed cheek as he leans in to give his mate a tender kiss, his thumb softly caressing his skin. “…with every breath.”

A little smirk curls Gunnar’s lips when his husband tells him to get cracking. “You just wait…it’ll be my hand cracking over your arse for not telling me about this sooner.” The warrior raises his eyebrow at his mate teasingly. He gives Cinaed another deep kiss, before heading towards Uhtred to get started.

“Shit…did I piss him off? I didn’t mean to imply he couldn’t help with the roof…” Uhtred asks the Northman in a hushed tone, while he glances at Cinaed with a worried look.

Gunnar smirks at the worry in Uhtred’s voice for offending his mate. How does he say this without giving away Cinaed’s condition. The roof is the last place his mate should be. If he were to fall…Gunnar doesn’t even want to finish that thought, shaking his head.

“It’s fine, Uhtred…he knows you mean well.” Gunnar reassures the Dane.

“If you’re sure…” Uhtred looks into Gunnar’s icy blue eyes, not completely convinced he didn’t just make a huge blunder. “I’ll apologize to him…if he wants to—“

“No!” The Northman reaches out to stop Uhtred. “It’s better that he stays on the ground. Trust me.”

Not wanting to anger the Northman, Uhtred gives him a nod as they head to the woodpile. After moving the boards closer to the cottage, Uhtred fills a pouch on his waist with nails and grabs a hammer. He climbs the ladder to the roof, letting Gunnar hand him up one of the boards to nail in place. Having an extra set of hands makes the process go so much quicker and within a couple hours they have all the boards in place. Gunnar comes up and helps him finish nailing all the boards and then cut out a notch for the chimney for the hearth.

When the two men stop for a little break before adding the thatch, Gunnar and Uhtred both shed their sweaty tunics. Their muscles rippling in the sunlight. Tying a rope to one of the bundles of thatch, they hoist it onto the roof, before climbing up to spread it out. They do the same for the second bundle and the third, until the entire roof is covered.

Once they are finished, Uhtred is smiling like crazy. Excited that he is one step closer to giving his love a special gift. Gunnar spots Cinaed sitting in the grass playing with Hati and Luca, tossing a stick for them to chase after. The warrior stalks towards his mate, before pouncing on him, laying Cinaed down in the grass and attacking his neck with kisses and tickles from his beard until he is giggling and screeching.

Fuck, he loves him so much…he makes him the happiest man in the world.

The prince giggles at Gunnar’s teasing, thinking it perhaps wouldn’t be too unpleasant. He fucking loves when the Northman does that, after all.

“Yeah, yeah…” Cinaed brushes him off, before melting into his deep kiss. Their eyes linger on each other as they gradually pull away and Gunnar joins Uhtred. The prince gets to work unloading furs and supplies, gradually taking them inside and leaving them in an orderly fashion. He tries not to carry too much at a time or too quickly, for Gunnar and their pup’s sake, but it’s unnatural to do so. Once a significant amount of time has passed, Cinaed decides to take a little break. He sits in the shade and starts throwing sticks for Hati and Luca, chuckling at how excited it makes them.

Cinaed groans and takes a sip from his water skin, an uneasy feeling coming over him.

Fucking nauseous.

It only lasts a little while, and the shade and water helps, but damn. Then he is so joyously distracted as Gunnar pounces on him, tickling him relentlessly. Even with Uhtred nearby there’s no way the prince could contain his giggles.

“Aghhh stop it!”

The Northman relents when Cinaed touches his bite with his lips and gives him kisses, almost as if it calms the storm. He lays back in the grass and folds his hands behind his head.

“Wow. Is the roof done? That looks much better. Insulated… Uhtred, what’s next?” Cinaed asks the Dane, smiling at his obvious radiating happiness.

Letting out a breathy laugh, Gunnar relents his tickle assault on his husband when Cinaed kisses his mark. It’s madness how his mate can subdue him with a simple kiss on a scar, flooding his body with calm, among other sensations. Like his cock twitching in his trousers. The Northman takes in a deep breath trying to calm the sudden heat flowing through him.

“That’s not even fair…” he teases his mate with a whisper, before sitting back and taking in his gorgeous man. His hand reaches out of it’s own volition and settles softly on Cinaed’s belly. He really shouldn’t do that in Uhtred’s presence, but he just can’t help himself.

Uhtred grins taking in the display between the Northman and the prince. Seeing the love between them is palpable, and it warms his heart. He understands Finan’s protectiveness towards his son, and his hesitation letting the two of them be together, but if he just saw this side of them he would know, without a shred of doubt, they are meant to be together. Uhtred glances away, looking at the cottage again, while Cinaed and Gunnar have their moment. Not wanting to impose.

“Yes, the roof is done. Thank you, Gunnar. And thank you, Cinaed for helping to unload the wagon.” Uhtred grins in happiness. “Uh…I have some cupboards that need to be hung inside, I could use a hand with. Other than that, just finishing the top sections of the walls and getting everything put away.”

Gunnar stands up, then offers his hand to his husband to help him rise, then all three men head into the cottage. A large bed frame sits in one corner of the big room, and the bottom cabinets in the kitchen area have already been placed. A stone hearth sits in the center of one wall. Uhtred explains the arrangement of the furniture, the bed in one corner, a couch and rugs in front of the hearth, and table and chairs near the kitchen area. The Dane smiles as he pictures the cottage coming together.

“I had thought of ordering a bathing tub…but then with the beautiful waterfall and pool of water, I figured it wasn’t necessary.” Uhtred muses with a mischievous smile. “…besides, it gives me an excuse to warm Finan up.” The Dane softly snickers. He highly doubts he and Finan will be here in the winter, and in the summer the water outside is actually quite warm.

“Maybe we finish up these walls,” Uhtred points up at the section where the wall is supposed to meet the roof. “…then we can make some supper.”

“Excellent! You’re welcome!” Cinaed beams, taking Gunnar’s hand to help him stand. “Yes, let’s get it all squared away.”

As they enter the cottage, Cinaed admires it with his gaze, his eyes darting to all of the finer details and the parts that make it feel like a home. It might be a getaway, but it’s a home nonetheless with the effort the Dane has put into it. It’s actually quite beautiful, and the prince can’t believe that Uhtred did it all on his own up to this point. It probably took a long time.

“I think the water outside is plenty.” Cinaed adds, with a smirk. It’s definitely a great place to bathe. At first, the prince was feeling left out of the more masculine tasks, and now he just wants to sit and get comfy.

“Hurry, Gunnar, so I can have supper.” Cinaed says, grinning when the Northman raises his eyebrow. Gods, he loves that look.

“I’m kidding!” He snickers. “C’mon, I’ll help.”

Although, in Cinaed’s case, Gunnar highly doubts it would be a punishment, as lust darkens in his eyes. His mate would be so wet for him… Gunnar lets out a soft groan as he tries to shake the images from his mind, his cock already half hard. He quickly readjusts himself before turning his attention to the task at hand.

After heading back outside, Uhtred and Gunnar cut the boards to fit the open spots above the wall where it meets the roof. Just like before Gunnar hands up the boards after measuring and cutting them to fit, and Uhtred nails them in place. Together they quickly compete each side, fully enclosing the inside to the elements. When Uhtred steps off the ladder he looks up in wonderment, happy that the outside is finally finished, and one step closer to bringing his husband to see his surprise.

“Thank you again, Gunnar. It would have taken weeks for me to get this all done myself.” Uhtred gives the Northman a grateful smile.

Clapping Uhtred on the back, Gunnar returns his smile, proud that they were able to work together on this for Finan. “I’m happy to help. Despite everything in the past, I know Finan is a good man and he deserves this. Both of you do.”

“…now we better prepare some supper.” Gunnar grins as they head back inside. He finds Cinaed curled up on some furs taking a nap with Luca and Hati, and Gods, does his stomach flutter at the sight. In less than a couple months, their little bean will be curled up with them, and the Northman is so excited.

“Should we wake him?” Uhtred quietly asks.

Gunnar quickly bites back a growl, reminding himself where they are at and in who’s company. “No. Let him rest…he’ll wake when the food is ready.”

Uhtred pulls out some deer meat from one of his packs, and some vegetables, before cutting it all up and throwing it in a pot with some water. Gunnar starts a fire in the hearth, that Uhtred uses to cook the stew.

“I also have some bread and cheese to go with the stew…” Uhtred offers as he glances at the Northman.

But Gunnar only has eyes for Cinaed. Watching his little fox snuggle into the furs while he holds Luca close to him. A tender smile on the warrior’s face.

As the other men dive back in, Cinaed continues his unpacking and pulls out a few of Uhtred’s furs. The feel of them alone is very, very tempting.

Maybe just a cat nap…

The prince has never slept so much as he has in the past few days. It’s almost like his body is fending off an illness, but not quite. It’s a warmer feeling, like he’s fending for his little one, and his body needs extra rest to make up for it. And extra food. Plenty of extra food. As he spreads out a fur, he literally walks in a little circle as if he was in his fox form before laying down, Luca quickly joining him and Hati staying on their heels. Even with the hammering in the distance, Cinaed closes his eyes and he is out.

A while later, the prince’s nose twitches and flares at the smell of food before he even wakes. In fact, it’s exactly what wakes him. Cinaed opens his eyes slowly and gives his lover a sleepy smile as Gunnar stares down at him, a look in the prince’s eyes of pure adoration.

“Why are you staring at me? Creepy.” The prince grins.

“Careful, little fox…” Gunnar growls in a whisper. “Your bottom is going to be so sore by the time I’m done with you.” He leans in and captures Cinaed’s lips in a heated kiss. Biting his bottom lip as a taste of what’s to come if he continues being a smart mouth.

Even as he says it, Gunnar has to fight off his own arousal settling deep in his groin. His breaths getting heavier as Cinaed’s tantalizing scent sets over him. This is neither the time or place, with Uhtred only on the other side of the room.

“Behave…” Gunnar whispers in a low tone, before leading his husband to where Uhtred is dishing up the stew into bowls. He hands one to Cinaed, along with a hunk of bread before taking his own and leading them back over to the furs to sit and eat. Both of them share pieces with Luca, while Uhtred shares with Hati.

“After we finish eating, Cinaed and I will head to the waterfall and bathe. Would you mind keeping an eye on Luca?” The Northman asks the Dane.

Uhtred looks up with a teasing smile. He’d be blind not to see the heat and tension between the two lovers. Hel, they are still newlyweds. “I don’t mind. He and Hati seem to get along well. Now that the cottage is finished, except for the little stuff, we could call it a night and finish up in the morning before heading home.

There is a cave behind the waterfall, if you would like some privacy for the night. Finan and I slept there the last time we came here. Just take some extra furs with you, and anything else you need. I can watch over your pup tonight.” Uhtred offers as he tears off a chunk of bread before eating it.

Behave…

No!

“Yes, lover…” The prince purrs, almost inaudibly as he lets his eyes do the talking, a fiery challenge behind them. He follows Gunnar to their food and his attentions shift to Luca, as well as the growl in his belly. But when Gunnar tells Uhtred that they will be going to the river to bathe, the prince’s eyes shoot up from his bowl in surprise.

“We are? Oh…” the prince says, a little blush rising to his cheeks. There’s definitely no hiding this thing between them in front of Uhtred now. And then, the Lord of Bebbanburg seals his fate by offering them a cave, and offering to watch their child.

“Uhtred, that’s so kind, but um…” the prince says, then yelps a little when Gunnar grabs his thigh and pinches it between his large hand.

“… thank you. We’d love it.” He smirks, obediently relenting.

“This food is amazing, damn.”

Fuck, who’s the one actually being punished here. Him or me…

A low growl rumbles in his chest before he has a chance to stop it. Cinaed’s little smirk when he hears the sound, only fanning the flames. Gunnar pastes a smile on his face, hiding his internal turmoil, as he finishes eating his stew.

Uhtred’s offer of the cave for the night has Gunnar gloating inside. If Cinaed thinks he’s safe from punishment with the Dane nearby, he is sorely mistaken. The sound of the waterfall will muffle any moans or growls from the two of them as the Northman has his way with his mate. As soon as Cinaed says but, Gunnar squeezes his thigh to still his tongue.

“We greatly appreciate the offer Uhtred…I’m sure my husband and I will welcome the privacy.” The Northman returns his mate’s smirk. He almost busts out laughing when Cinaed turns their attention back to the food.

“Eat up, beloved…it’s going to be a long night.” Gunnar teases his lover with a challenging look in his eyes.

After they finish their food, Gunnar and Cinaed help Uhtred clean up the dishes, before gathering drying towels, a mountain of furs, and their essentials. Gunnar leans down and gives Luca a kiss on the top of his head while scratching under the pup’s chin.

“Be good for Uhtred. No sass and you go to bed when he says. I love you, and we’ll see you in the morning.” Luca lets out a little bark in answer, his eyes reflecting his obedience to his alpha. Gunnar gives Cinaed a moment to say his good nights as well.

“Thank you again, Uhtred.” Gunnar nods at the Dane before he ushers Cinaed out the door.

“Goodnight, baby… be good, okay?” Cinaed coos at their pup. “Love you darling. Be so good. We won’t be far.”

As Gunnar ushers him out the door, the prince almost disobediently stiffens before falling into stride. How could he?! Uhtred invited them here and they are abandoning him. Cinaed almost fumes a little at those thoughts before the captivating waterfall catches his attention, and the cave Uhtred mentioned. It’s very secluded, and comfortable.

“Gunnar… how dare you?!” The prince says once they’re safe away, but with a grin he can’t prevent. “Baby we are his guests, Jesus Christ…”

“If anything, I’m doing the Dane a service. I doubt your step-father wants to be kept up all night listening to your moans and screams.” A teasing smirk comes to the Northman’s face as he drops the heap of furs on the floor of the cave. The sound of the waterfall muffling any other sounds around them.

“Besides…I figured you might need to shift, and neither one of us wants to do that in front of Uhtred.” Gunnar rationalizes, giving his husband a loving look. Cinaed’s body is going through so many changes carrying their pup, not to mention any side effects he’s probably feeling being pregnant. Shifting in his fox form might be a welcome feeling, even for a little bit.

Feeling sweaty and dirty from all the work on the cottage, Gunnar quickly sheds his boots and trousers. He left his dirty tunic on the wagon earlier when he and Uhtred were working on the roof. The cool water from the pool sounds amazing right now. Not only that, but the thought of feeling his husband’s naked body against his has his cock already thickening.

“Ready for our bath?” Gunnar smirks at his mate, curious if he will come willingly, or if the warrior is going to have to throw him over his shoulder and wade in.

The prince narrows his eyes at his mate, his words making him feel both stubborn and aroused.

Moans and screams. The nerve of this man!

Cinaed looks down to hide his smile. Yes, he does need to shift. Gunnar is such an amazing mix of feral and tender towards him, and it makes his fucking heart soar. He always knows what he needs. But still, something about all of this makes him defiant. Perhaps he’s just testing his alpha for the first time… or it could be the rush of hormones his fox is experiencing.

“Agh, fine… I suppose.” The prince huffs, kicking off his own boots and throwing off his tunic.

“Oh, and I wouldn’t have kept Uhtred up with moans and screams. Perhaps I wouldn’t have let you that close to me, hm?”

But who the fuck am I kidding…

Holding out his hand, Gunnar leads Cinaed into the pool. The spray from the waterfall instantly coating them with moisture. The warrior lets out a soft sigh feeling the cool, refreshing water lapping at his skin. Rinsing the sweat and dirt from his body. He dunks his head under water for a moment getting his braids wet and cleaning the smudges from his face. He lathers soap in his hand washing himself before turning his attention to his mate. Despite Cinaed’s defiance today, he can see how much he is enjoying the warrior’s hands rubbing the suds all over his body.

Gunnar pays particular attention to the area between Cinaed’s legs. He tries to keep his touches casual, but when he gets close to his mate’s rim, he rubs a tantalizing finger over his entrance. He hears the muffled whimper his mate lets out, even if Cinaed tries to hide it. He does it again, with a wicked smile on his face.

“So you wouldn’t have let me close to you, hm?” The warrior teases as his mate tries to press his arse against the fingers teasing him. He lets one of his fingers slip inside, barely, before quickly withdrawing it. Smiling when he hears Cinaed’s sharp intake of breath, and the subsequent whine.

“So would you rather I not touch you?” Gunnar husks in a seductive tone as his fingers tease over his mate’s opening again. When Cinaed turns fiery eyes at him, Gunnar bites back a smirk.

“Hmm…I take that as a no?” Gunnar raises an eyebrow before claiming Cinaed’s lips in a heated kiss. Nibbling on his bottom lip. “If so, does that mean you’re going to take your punishment like a good boy?”

Gunnar’s fingers inevitably run across a very sensitive spot, and the prince tries to hide the way his body lit up like a flame to it. The Northman has a smug, wicked smile as Cinaed instinctively arches his hips to his hand.

He’s teasing me.

The prince’s gaze turns fiery and stubborn. Of course it’s a no!

When Gunnar kisses him, Cinaed moans into his mouth, like the Northman had been teasing him and edging him way past his tolerance. Then, he growls, deep under his breath as his amber eyes challenge his lover. He wants to be good… especially if it gets him such sweet release and proximity. But his fox seemingly has other ideas.

“So, not a good boy…” The warrior murmurs as he tilts his head at his mate, his own eyes turning icy at the challenge. Before Cinaed has a chance to react, Gunnar swoops him up in his arms and carries him to the furs in the cave. The fiery look in Cinaed’s eyes might deter a lesser man, but not his mate, not his alpha.

Laying his mate out on the furs, Cinaed’s growls get a little louder, and damn if Gunnar’s cock doesn’t get harder from the sound. His purrs and growls does something to the Northman’s stomach, causing it to flutter in delight anytime he hears them. Any sound his little fox makes makes him mad with lust.

“Is there something you need?” Gunnar husks as he rakes his teeth over the peaks of Cinaed’s chest before flicking each one with his tongue. His fingers tease down his mate’s chest, tracing the lines of his muscles before inching dangerously close to his love’s cock. He bypasses it to trail his fingers down Cinaed’s thighs, watching as goosebumps spread across his skin.

“Use your words, baby…”

Put me down!!

Grrrrr.

Cinaed thrashes a little as Gunnar carries him, growing more stubborn by the minute. He has no idea what’s gotten into him. It must be this place… his pup. Something. Things have grown increasingly animalistic between them, especially with Cinaed’s first full moon, but it’s usually only of pleasure. The prince has never growled at him like this, and the growls get a little louder as the Northman sets him down on the furs. Perhaps Gunnar was right… perhaps he needs to shift.

What’s gotten into me? …

As the Northman teases, bites, and licks at the peaks of his chest, Cinaed feels like he’ll explode. Something I need? Fuck. It’s almost painful, whatever part of him is gnawing at the surface. It has to be this switch of locations. It has to be. Why would he challenge his alpha like this? He fucking loves him.

“I need you to…agh…” the prince groans, closing his eyes. As his amber gaze flicks open again, his eyes filter over Gunnar’s impressive physique, all the way down to his hardening cock. Fuck, it looks so good. He just needs him to fuck this fight out of him, perhaps.

Cinaed suddenly arches up a little, nuzzling his cheek against the Northman’s, scenting him over and over as the growling in his chest is replaced by steady, rhythmic purrs.

“Need you inside me.” Cinaed purrs in his ear, before turning around on all fours for his mate.

A tender smile comes to Gunnar’s face when his mate starts scenting him, rubbing their cheeks together. Cinaed’s growls slowly shifting to purrs as his alpha scent starts to soothe him. The tingling of Gunnar’s core gets stronger when his mate purrs in his ear.

“Fuck, your so beautiful…” Gunnar husks when Cinaed shifts to all fours presenting himself for his alpha. His cock already rock hard and leaking.

Trailing his hand down Cinaed’s back, Gunnar shifts behind him. He can already smell his husband’s arousal heavy in the air before he even touches him. Placing a hand on each cheek, the warrior spreads him wider before leaning in to lick a wide strip over Cinaed’s rim. Gods, the taste of his wetness causing his cock to twitch.

“Mm, baby…so sweet.” Gunnar purrs before leaving a bite on Cinaed’s arse cheek. It satisfies his alpha seeing his mark on his mate. A claim that only he can make.

Lining his cock up at Cinaed’s entrance, Gunnar pauses as the head rests at his rim. Usually he opens his mate up with his fingers or his tongue, but something inside him tells him that his mate needs his cock more than anything. He slowly applies pressure until his cockhead breeches Cinaed’s ring of muscle, then he waits, giving him time to adjust.

“Tell me when you’re ready for more…” Gunnar softly rasps with a strangled breath. Fuck, he’s so tight…

Something about all of this is inherently controlled by his Fox form, and Cinaed has to bow to it. Perhaps just how Gunnar did in the beginning of his own shifts. His animal form won’t relent for anything in this circumstance besides the prospect of mating, and even the thought of it calms him. Perhaps because it’s such a natural act, in an unnatural place.

The prince’s eyes roll back and close when Gunnar licks his arse, his hips instantly shuddering at the sensation. And then, he bites him, and the pain feels so fucking good.

Please. Fuck.

Cinaed could beg for it, but Gunnar doesn’t make him. He sheaths his cock inside him so perfectly and lets the heavy weight of it settle while the prince starts fucking reeling.

“Gerðu það. Gefðu mér meira. Ég þarf meira…” Cinaed purrs, speaking to Gunnar in his native language in a last ditch attempt to ground him from whatever madness has been brought out in him. The prince kneels forward to rest his chest down, keeping his hips up for his lover as he rotates to look at him, giving him the most fervent fuck-me eyes he’s ever had.

“You like it when I mark you, don’t you?” The Northman purrs. When he’s half way inside his mate he smacks his arse with his palm, watching as his handprint blooms red on Cinaed’s fair skin. Gunnar breathes in a shuddering breath when his mate clenches around his cock, strangling his length. The pleasure mixed with pain reverberating through their pair bond.

The look in Cinaed’s eyes almost does him in. Those fuck-me eyes shredding what little control Gunnar has left. He grips Cinaed’s hips and drags him back against his cock, hard, burying himself inside him.

“Fuck baby…” he growls as his length throbs inside his lover. “Svona góður strákur…”

Gunnar forces himself to wait again, to let his mate adjust to being stretched wide around him, but when Cinaed eagerly wiggles his bottom against him, he can’t wait any longer. He pulls out, almost to the tip, then thrusts in hard. He does it again and again as the sounds of skin slapping against skin echoes in the cave.

“This is what you need…for your alpha to dominate you.” Gunnar growls as he thrusts in deep, his toes curling with each pass.

Fuck, exactly what I needed…

Gunnar is so tentative, as if he’s worried to hurt Cinaed or cause him any pain, but it’s been different ever since his first shift. The prince’s body accepts him instantly, the Northman’s words enough to have Cinaed leaking for him. Perhaps his fox has made him a little slutty.

“I fucking love it when you mark me.” The Prince purrs, hissing as Gunnar slaps his arse hard enough to make it sting. Fuck he loves that. It feels so good that he strangles his lover’s cock inside him, clenching and gripping him as Cinaed gives him that fervent gaze from below. With a strong grip the Northman pulls him back and sheathes himself fully, and it makes the Prince whimper.

“Deeper, baby. Make me feel it…” Cinaed mutters, rewarded with exactly that as his toes curl beneath him. He wants Gunnar to bite him again. To mark him on his arse again, to feel those rough hands again. A dark, damp, desolate cave and they are fucking like their lives depend on it, as they always do. Damn Gunnar and his beautiful physique and that pretty, gravelly voice. It’s irresistible.

“Fuck, baby…” the warrior growls as his husband pushes back against him. Gods, he just wants to devour Cinaed, place his marks all over his body. He smacks his mate’s other arse cheek, smiling at the red handprint flaring out. “Gods, your look so beautiful with my marks all over you. Completely and utterly mine.”

Moving his hips fervently, back and forth, Gunnar’s head rolls back as a deep moan rumbles from his chest. The scent of his mate wrapping around him gives him a heady feeling. The slick leaking out of his lover each time he pulls out is making him mad with hunger. Looking down, Gunnar watches as his cock slides in and out of his mate, filling him up with each pass.

Gathering some of Cinaed’s leaking wetness on his fingers, his guides them to his mate’s mouth. A smirk curling the warrior’s face when his husband doesn’t hesitate to take what he is offering. Cinaed’s tongue wraps around his fingers as they dive into his mouth, licking the wetness from his fingers. Fuck it’s so hot, and Gunnar’s cock twitches deep inside him as he buries himself to the hilt.

“See how good you taste, baby?” Gunnar purrs. “I could feast on you all night.

Cinaed jumps when the Northman’s strong hand lands on his arse again, something about the burning shock of it making his stomach flutter and his cock twitch. It’s another feral display of his husband’s need that makes him fucking ache, and more than that it makes him whine for more.

“Yes, yes, fuck…” the prince moans as Gunnar’s hips slap against him, each thrust hitting a very special spot. He’s still a little edgy— but if his alpha, his mate feels safe to be here doing this, he should too. Cinaed is instantly distracted from that thought when the Northman brings his fingers to his mouth. He obediently takes them between his lips and sucks them, twirling his tongue against the pads. He tastes himself and he groans, guttural and primal.

“Y-you’re the one who tastes good…” and smells good. Feels good. Fucking enrapturing.

“God, fuck. You’re going to drive me mad if you keep going like that…” the prince says with panted breaths.

“Mine…always mine…” Gunnar growls as a wave of possessiveness comes over him. Hauling Cinaed up with an arm wrapped around his chest and the hand on his love’s throat, the warrior nuzzles into his neck before bringing his lips to his for a ravaging kiss.

“I love driving you mad…” the Northman husks against Cinaed’s lips, his mate’s panted breaths stirring the fire inside of him.

Fuck, he’s squeezing me so tight…

Gunnar’s hand trails down Cinaed’s waist to take his bouncing cock, the tip dripping precum that he uses to stroke down his length. “So hard for me, baby…” the warrior purrs, loving how Cinaed’s cock pulses in his hand. The hitch in his husband’s breath going straight to Gunnar’s core.

“I love seeing you wrecked on my cock…the pleasure haze in your eyes, the way your body begs for everything I have to give you…it’s absolutely gorgeous. My little fox…” Gunnar nibbles on Cinaed’s bottom lip, holding him tight against him as his cock grinds deep.

When Gunnar’s hand traces down to his belly to grip his cock, the prince achingly arches back against him, his body shuddering as his breath hitches. The Northman strokes him so perfectly, in time with his thrusts and not gentle but also reverent, like he’s listening for every reaction. Just savagely enough to drive Cinaed crazy. As the Northman speaks so tenderly and fervently, the prince feels himself blush with rosy fire in his cheeks.

“I-I fucking love you,” Cinaed chokes out in a little purr. “I’m sorry for misbehaving. I won’t … fuck… do it again.”

The prince gives Gunnar another wet kiss, realizing he’s on the edge of a really strong peak. It’s been stronger since the conception of their pup, and Cinaed doesn’t pretend to know why. He just indulges in it.

“Just know, if you misbehave, you’ll be punished…” the warrior growls as his hips snap hard against his mate. He knows he’s asking for trouble by saying that. His love may misbehave on purpose, just to get this reaction out of him, but honestly he doesn’t mind. He loves his fiery little fox.

“Are you getting close for me?” Gunnar purrs in Cinaed’s ear before his lips trail down his neck. The warrior can already feel the tingling of his knot. Feel the base expanding as it starts catching on his husband’s rim. A couple more hard thrusts is all he can manage before it locks him inside. His hold on his mate tightening when he feels the shudder run through Cinaed.

Gunnar kisses Cinaed’s silvery scar, delighting in the moans that fall from his mouth. Just one little bite and he knows it will tip his mate over the edge. Cinaed’s cock is throbbing in his hand, and he can feel the trembling of his legs as he holds him against him. Gunnar’s eyes close for a moment letting the sensations envelope him. The wildflower and lavender scent, the feel of his skin against his, the way he’s gripping his cock so tight.

“Cum for me, Cinaed…let me feel you take what you need.” The warrior demands, drawing so close himself. His hand works the tip of his mate’s cock, giving him that extra friction to send him over the edge. His teeth rake against Cinaed's mark before sinking into the flesh.

“Yes, lover…” Cinaed says obediently, breathlessly. As if he wouldn’t love if Gunnar punished him. He cries out at his husband’s hard thrusts, hoping to the Gods that Uhtred didn’t hear it from afar. It was fucking loud. Typically, they shift positions a few times… but his lover mounted behind him like this drives the prince so feral with need. There’s no way he can keep it together for much longer as Gunnar’s cock practically fucks the cum out of him.

“Yes, I’m so fucking close… oh, god…” Cinaed whines, squeezing his eyes shut and furrowing his brows.

I’m going to cum so hard…

The Northman’s hold on his throat grows more relentless, and Cinaed tries not to scream as his lover’s cock starts to engorge and fill him up tighter. Gunnar’s hand moves expertly over the crown of his cock and makes his legs tremble, just before sinking his teeth into the silvery scar at the prince’s neck. Gunnar has the perfect awareness to slip his hand over the prince’s mouth as Cinaed simultaneously cums and takes his husband’s swollen knot inside him, releasing desperate, aching sounds that he denied he’d make earlier in the night.

“Me too, baby…so close.” Gunnar groans as he tries to keep it together just a little bit longer. His knot has fully engorged and the pressure around it has him reeling. As soon as Cinaed clenches down on him, he knows he’ll be done for. No holding back.

His hand flicks back and forth over the crown of Cinaed’s cock. His other hand tightens on his throat as his teeth sink into the tender flesh where his mark shimmers on his mate’s neck. Gunnar feels the moment Cinaed tightens against him, the clenching around his cock that drags a guttural groan from the warrior. Warmth fills his hand as Cinaed tips over the edge, and Gunnar cups his hand over the head of his cock to collect all of his spend. He moves his other hand over Cinaed’s mouth, muffling the aching sounds of his release that would otherwise reverberate against the cave walls.

Oh, and I wouldn’t have kept Uhtred up with moans and screams….

The warrior smiles to himself remembering Cinaed’s words of defiance. The pressure around his knot becomes too much, and Gunnar feels himself falling into that state of bliss only his mate can give him. Growls mixed with deep moans rip from his throat as he fills his mate with his seed. His abdomen quivers with the force of it, and his legs tremble as he holds on to Cinaed for dear life. White stars flash in his vision as his breaths turn ragged and heavy.

“Fuck, baby…Gods, you undo me.” He rasps as he clutches Cinaed tight to his body as his cock spasms inside him.

When the aftershocks finally pass, Gunnar gently lays Cinaed down on the furs, running his hand over his mate’s back in loving caresses. He licks the spend he gathered in his hand from his lover’s release, not wanting to waste a drop of his sweetness. Hovering over his husband, he tilts Cinaed’s face to his, giving him a ravishing kiss, letting him taste himself on his tongue.

“Such a good boy for me…” Gunnar husks in a deep gravely voice. “….you took your punishment so well.”

The warrior curls up behind his love, pulling Cinaed firmly against his chest as he nuzzles his nose into his neck. Breathing in their shared scents gives Gunnar a heady feeling as the afterglow of their release drums inside him.

“Well… you’re my alpha, so I’ll take whatever you give me.” The prince purrs, nuzzling their noses before closing his eyes and arching back into Gunnar’s touch. He hums in utter comfort and lust as his mate caresses him, the feeling of his knot inside him a still heavy reminder that he fucking loves. He takes the Northman’s hand and places it on his low belly.

“The flutters. Feel it?” Cinaed whispers in a love hazed tone. Gunnar won’t be able to feel it by touch alone, but by their pair bond surely.

“Your pup is tickling me.” The prince grins.

“I’ll give you anything you want, baby…all you have to do is ask.” Gunnar smirks at his love, before giving him a tender kiss. 

He loves how Cinaed arches into his touch as he caresses his back and sides and the soft hum he lets out. When his mate takes his hand and places it over his belly, a huge grin comes to the warrior’s face.

“Hmm…” Gunnar closes his eyes, concentrating on their pair bond, until he feels their little one moving. “Yes! I feel it…” the warrior softly chuckles. “…the flutters are getting stronger.”

“Our pup…” the Northman grins, delighted seeing the happiness in his mate’s eyes. “Do I need to scold them for tickling you?” Gunnar playfully raises his eyebrow. “Do you think their paws and tail are growing? Maybe their little ears…” he asks excitedly, his face beaming in happiness.

“How are you feeling, baby? Is there anything I can do for you to make you more comfortable?” Gunnar softly asks as he lovingly caresses his mate’s belly.

“Yes. Little paws and ears and… everything.” Cinaed purrs with a beaming smile.

“Oh baby, I feel so good now… earlier I was very nauseous and a little grumpy but I’m feeling better. I think you’ll have to be patient with me these next several weeks…”

Nuzzling their noses together again, the prince gives Gunnar another deep kiss before easing his whole weight back against him.

“Mm, actually… I’m freezing now.” Cinaed says, grabbing a fur and purring louder when Gunnar spreads it out over him. “Oh, and keep your hand there,” he says, laying his own hand over the Northman’s on his belly.

“They’ll know you’re watching them as they tickle me to death.” He snickers.

“I’ll be patient, baby. Just let me know when you’re not feeling well and I’ll do anything I can to alleviate your discomfort. I love you so much, and I want you to be happy and comfortable while you are giving us this amazing gift.” Gunnar purrs and he looks lovingly into Cinaed’s eyes.

“It is getting a little chill in here…” Gunnar smiles as he spreads the fur Cinaed grabbed over them. “…but I’ll keep you warm.”

When Cinaed places his hand over his on his belly, Gunnar feels his heart flutter. “I wouldn’t dream of moving it…” he softly reassures. It comes so naturally to him, wanting to touch the place Cinaed is carrying their pup. Almost like he is protecting something precious, which it very much is. His wolf howls in his chest wanting to guard their offspring.

Gunnar lets out a deep rumble of laughter, his heart giddy with joy when his mate says their pup is going to tickle him to death. Gods, it still seems unimaginable, his mate carrying his pup. But it’s real. He has felt it through the pair bond, the new life they created.

“Yes. I’ll be watching them. And when my knot goes down, I’ll share words with them. Remind them to let their faðir get some rest.” The warrior chuckles as he nuzzles into Cinaed cheek, scenting him before he peppers his cheek with kisses. “They can probably feel the warmth of my hand through your belly.”

“Do you want to rest for a little while and then shift when my knot releases us?” Gunnar softly asks as he snuggles Cinaed closer to him, tangling his legs with his.

For some reason, Gunnar’s words make the Prince want to cry. Not of sadness, but of sheer radiating happiness.

“So tender to me. I love you too…” Cinaed purrs, closing his eyes as his mate nuzzles into him under the fur. He grins when Gunnar bellows laughter, probably at the dramatic part of his statement. When the Northman scents him and leaves kisses on his cheek, the prince snickers and pinches Gunnar’s thigh with his hand under the furs.

“They can definitely feel you. This is only the second time the flutters have happened, and both have been when I’m by your side. Not that I stray far…” the prince grins again.

“Yes, I need to shift so badly. Until then…”

The prince rests back against his lover, tilting his head to look up at him. “… you’ve never told me of your family. Your father, and mother. Siblings. Will you tell me about them?” Cinaed purrs.

“They know when their sire is near…and they want to make their presence known.” Gunnar beams at his mate. He feels the connection between him and Cinaed getting stronger with each passing day, and now it’s extending to their little bean.

“We’ll shift, baby…run off some of the pent up energy stirring inside us.” Gunnar agrees as he kisses Cinaed’s curls. He has found himself needing to shift at least once a day, otherwise his wolf starts pacing inside him, clawing at his chest.

Gunnar feels warm spread through him as Cinaed rests against his chest. When he tilts his head up to him, with those gorgeous amber eyes looking deep into his, the warrior feels his heart melt. Gunnar wraps his arms snug around his husband.

“I haven’t, have I…” Gunnar muses. Honestly he hasn’t thought of his parents in a long time. It seems like a lifetime ago since they passed. “My father was an explorer and a warrior, much like I became at Ragnar’s side. My mother was a gentle soul. Revna often reminds me of her with her tenderness and care for others. They both passed when I was just a boy…eleven years old. During a raid of our village by a neighboring Jarl. Ragnar’s family took me in and raised me alongside Ragnar and Rollo.”

The prince feels the need to shift too, badly. Something about this recent conception has him nearly suffering to shift at least once a day, for some reason. Perhaps the energy of it is soothing to his pup, or it helps in its growth. The prince has no idea. Cinaed was inclined to ask about Gunnar’s parents since they themselves will soon be parents as well. They usually have talks like this late at night, wrapped in each other’s arms… and although Gunnar has mentioned much, he never really mentioned them.

As Cinaed closes his eyes and listens to Gunnar’s musing about his upbringing, he gets a punch straight in the chest and stomach at his words. Fuck, if only he could have known. To promote any sort of pain for his lover is unbearable.

“Baby… I’m so sorry. That sounds so painful. They didn’t… deserve that,” Cinaed says softly and shakes his head.

“You were so young. Gods, my heart hurts for you.”

“Ragnar and I were playing in the forest when the raid happened. Even though we were only boys, we did our best to protect the women and children that fled into the trees, with small axes and knives. Sigurd, Ragnar’s father, adopted me and welcomed me into his family. That is why Ragnar and I became so close. Like brothers.” Gunnar looks lovingly into his mate’s eyes, before brushing a stray strand of hair from his face.

“I don’t know if my father knew there was a wolf inside of him, that it had passed down from his father. He never spoke of it, and I never saw him shift.” Gunnar muses as he tries to think back to any time that his father’s wolf may have appeared, but he can’t remember ever seeing it. Maybe he repressed it, much like Finan does with his fae magic. Maybe it stayed dormant in him.

A tender smile comes to Gunnar’s face when his mate says his heart hurts for him. “Baby, it’s alright. I don’t mind you asking about them. It’s good to remember those we have lost. It keeps their memories alive. In a sense, I had two fathers, Tjörvi and Sigurd. And Ragnar’s mother always treated me with kindness and caring. After awhile I think she considered me like blood, like her true son.

…maybe that was why Rollo was so jealous of me.” Gunnar never really thought of that before, but maybe that’s why Rollo took him captive. Tried to break him so that he would be loyal to him, because he felt Gunnar had stolen something from him.

Maybe that’s how Asgeir feels about me. I had something he didn’t get to experience. The love of our father.

It has taken many years for Gunnar to come to terms with the idea that his father was unfaithful to his mother. Siring a son with another woman on one of his travels to the northwest of Norway. In a ship makers village. Making promises to her he could not or would not keep. And leaving behind a son that would never know him.

“… it’s good to honor their memory. Still… you’ve had a life of such pain, and that ends where you and I meet. Right here. Our family...” He says reverently, giving Gunnar a soft, slow kiss as his hand interlaces the fingers of the one holding his belly.

“… you know that you’re going to be so happy, right?” Cinaed grins at him. Gods, what a silly question. The Northman already beams every time they are together, and so does the prince. “I’ll make you so happy. I told you that months ago and I meant it.”

Leaning up to scent his cheek, the prince’s breath hitches when Gunnar rolls his hips into him, still feeling him deep and dominant inside him. They get lost in another kiss, and when they pull away, Cinaed sees something cross Gunnar’s icy blue eyes. He takes his cheek, caressing it with his thumb.

“Is there more?” He asks softly, wondering.

“I know you meant it, baby…and you have. Everything you have given me, your love, our pups, and our home, is more than I could have ever imagined. I feel like I can’t stop smiling when I’m with you, because you make me so happy.” Even now, Gunnar can’t wipe the smile off his face. It’s almost like it’s engrained in him, especially when he is near his love.

Cinaed’s scent envelopes him as his mate scents his cheek. Gods, he loves it when he does that, loves the flood of wildflowers and lavender that permeate around them. Gunnar can’t help himself when he rolls his hips against Cinaed, feeling himself locked deep and tight inside his mate. His knot still pulsing from the connection. He takes his husband in another passionate kiss, deep and full of hunger. He can’t get enough of him and the spell his mate puts over him. When they pull away, his earlier thoughts flash through his mind about his brother. The brother he has yet to claim.

When Cinaed asks him if there is more, Gunnar lets out a soft sigh. His mate can read him so well, can sense when something is troubling him.

“I supposedly have a brother…” Gunnar almost whispers. It’s the first time he has given voice to the notion. He sees the curious look in his mate’s eyes, so he continues, knowing that he can feel safe in sharing this with him.

“When I was in my mid twenties, a young man sought me out. A teenager by all accounts. He claimed that we shared a father. That we were brothers. But I didn’t believe him, because that would have meant my father was unfaithful to my mother. The thought of it crushed me. My father, sleeping with another woman when he was gone for weeks at a time.

I vehemently denied his claim. Didn’t want to see what was so plainly right before me. Piercing blue eyes, dark hair, the same chiseled jaw…” Gunnar softly shakes his head. “It was like looking at a younger version of my father. The evidence of his betrayal to my mother.”

“The young man came looking for a brother and for a pendant belonging to his father. One that his mother had told him was promised to him. A carved bone pendant of Njord’s ship, that Tjörvi wore during voyages. The pendant that I kept in my pocket to keep him close. In my heart, I knew the only way that young man would have known about the pendant was if it was true. My father spent time with his mother…intimately.”

“I was angry…I was livid.” Gunnar can still feel the emotions of that day racing through him. “I told him he has no brother. We fought…he split my lip, and I laid him on the ground. He still wouldn’t take back his claim, and for one  brief moment I could see my father so clearly in him.”

“I stormed off…but not before throwing the pendant in the dirt at his feet. I told him to take it, and do not return. He told me I could have kept it, and I threw back in his face that he said it was his.” Gunnar lets out a mirthless chuckle, “He had the stones to say, ‘No. I said I wanted something that belonged to our father. I wanted you to give it to me like a brother.’. As if…” Gunnar shakes his head.

“Now that I’m older, and after everything I’ve been through, I can’t help but regret that moment of turning him away. I have no idea where he is or if he’s even still alive…it haunts me.” Gunnar softly says, the regret shining in his eyes.

“And now…knowing what I am, I can’t help but wonder if he’s the same. If he has had to face being a werewolf all alone with no one to guide or help him…without his brother.”

“Now that you say that… he had to have been,” Cinaed says. “I mean, how could you not be related?”

Damn.

“I’m so sorry to hear that. It would have been nice for you to have a brother, one that you loved. But… it’s not always what it’s cracked up to be.”The prince smirks, thinking of Ronan, and then another he’s never mentioned before.

“I actually have an estranged brother too, but he’s um… a bastard. Younger than me. And you know… he’s not even a bastard, he’s a love child between my mother and some knight or something.” Cinaed furrows his brows and shakes his head.

“He was raised by my mother’s father, and is heir to her original homeland. And get this, baby… they’re our fucking rivals. Or were.”

Cinaed can see the shock in Gunnar’s eyes, probably because he knows his mother so well. He smiles and talks slowly, just enjoying speaking to him about it and hearing about his family history too.

“When Finan married my mother it was for an alliance between the Kingdoms, and it’s lasted thus far.

Anyway, he’s a nice kid… to me, anyway. But otherwise he is so solemn. So guarded. A perfect heir to the throne… because he doesn’t have the rebellious nature me or Ronan have. Mum loves him… from afar, mostly.”

“Yeah, it would have been nice to have a brother, if I would have just taken my head out of my arse…” Gunnar shakes his head at himself as a little smirk curls his lips.

“Hey, Ronan isn’t too bad…” the warrior can see what his mate is thinking by the look in his eyes as he lets out a soft chuckle. “…as long as he keeps the bow and arrow at home, and stops eavesdropping on other peoples conversations and intimate moments…Gods, when you say it like that, it really isn’t all that it’s cracked up to be.” Gunnar starts laughing.

When Cinaed mentions that he has a half-brother, Gunnar’s eyes widen in surprise. The bits and pieces he has heard about Ethne and Finan’s estrangement, he honestly can blame her for finding her own lover. Lagertha basically did the same to Ragnar, after he brought home another woman. Although Lagertha’s new husband was an arse, and he was proud of her for killing him.

“Your rivals?” Gunnar’s eyes widen again in shock as a little smile curls his lips. He loves listening to Cinaed talk and tell him stories about his homeland and family.

“That’s good that he’s nice to you and you two get along. What about Ronan? Does he have anything to do with your younger brother?” Gunnar has noticed that Ronan seems to keep his distance from Ethne, and he has openly claimed Revna as his mother.

“Your mother is a sweet woman, and I can see in her eyes how much she loves her children. Even the stubborn one…” Gunnar lets out a soft chuckle. 

“…I’m sure she’ll be a wonderful grandmother as well.” Gunnar beams as he gives his mate a kiss on the nose. His heart melting when Cinaed’s amber eyes look into his.

“All of us are perilous in our youths, aren’t we?” Cinaed says, giving the Northman a teasing gaze to which Gunnar pinches his side, as if he completely read his mind about still being young.

“Exactly. Ronan is insufferable,” Cinaed chuckles, not denying it one bit. His older brother is very lovable but also pretty maddening.

“And yes, we are technically rivals. But… I don’t know. He’s young, and he’s actually really sweet. I hope the title doesn’t go to his head…” the prince muses.

“Well… no, actually. Ronan has nothing to do with him, and I don’t think they’ve ever spoke two words to each other. Ronan and my mother just… don’t get along. He blames her for sending my father away. For letting it happen. And then… for having that love child, even though she never once neglected us for it. He’s hard on her, and… it’s irreparable. He just loves Finan too much. Perhaps one day, they’ll make peace, but...” Cinaed sighs.

“You aren’t the only one with some painful dynamics… I hope that’s a comfort, darling.” He says, nuzzling his nose into Gunnar’s cheek.

“Yeah. She’ll be great, hm? All of our family will be.” Cinaed says, giving the Northman a tender little gaze.

Even when he’s being a naughty boy…Gunnar smirks, remembering Cinaed’s attitude earlier.

“Yes, our family will be great. Our children will know the love of two parents that adore them, of their sister, their uncle, and grandparents. They will have everything we didn’t have when we were little. I will make sure of that.” Gunnar vows solemnly. His family is his whole world.

The Northman feels the moment his knot finally releases them, and he lets out a soft groan. Gods, he just wants to stay buried inside of his love all night. But, he did promise Cinaed a shift and a run. A chance to explore around the waterfall and surrounding forest. Besides, he loves how much stronger the lavender scent is when his mate is in his fox form. It make him want to tackle him to the ground and nuzzle his belly while his little fox purrs in that comforting sound.

Gunnar rolls his hips against his husband one last time before reluctantly withdrawing his softening cock. The little sound of disappointment Cinaed lets out make him smile, knowing that he isn’t the only one that hates when they separate.

“Are you ready to shift, baby? We can explore around the waterfall if you like…just stay close to me, since we are in unfamiliar territory.” Gunnar gives Cinaed a deep kiss, caressing his mate’s belly again before helping him up. At least they don’t have to remove their clothes since they have already done that part.

“Yes. I’ll stay close to you…” the prince purrs against Gunnar’s lips as they kiss. The Northman helps him up, and Cinaed begs a little distance as he shifts into his fox form. It’s completely cathartic… exactly what he needed, but he feels a little wild for some reason. He instantly sprints into a run, inwardly grinning as his husband stays on his heels. He stops by the waterfall and teases Gunnar with a few jumping motions, stepping on the wolf’s paws, before he nuzzles against him and drags his sleek body across the wolf.

So handsome! The prince chimes out. He loves seeing his husband in his wolf form. It’s as if the fox is as attracted as Cinaed is to Gunnar. The prince moves toward the waterfall, taking a clumsy drink of the water before sneezing.

A soft sound escapes Gunnar’s throat as his mate nuzzles into him. Something between a growl and a purr. He loves when Cinaed drags his sleek body across his, especially since his scent is so much stronger. The wolf’s eyes linger on his mate’s fluffy bottom and tail. It doesn’t matter if Cinaed is human or fox, he loves staring at his arse. His sweet scent tantalizing Gunnar’s senses.

…and you are absolutely gorgeous. Especially with the moon reflecting on your beautiful red fur.

Gods, don’t get him started on Cinaed’s perfect little nose, and his adorable ears. Gunnar lets out a huff of breath trying to calm the rising heat in his body. He chuckles inwardly when Cinaed sneezes after trying to take a drink from the waterfall. It took him a long time to learn the lesson on how to drink in his wolf form. It’s not as easy as it looks.

Do you want to go for a run through the meadow? I’m sure Uhtred, Hati and Luca are asleep by now.

When Cinaed nips at his tail then takes off at a run, Gunnar’s wolf grins before giving chase. It feels good to stretch his legs and run. Burn off some of this energy coiled inside him. He takes in the different scents around them as they run, his ears perked out listening for threats. He can smell deer and rabbits close by and it’s so tempting to hunt one down, his prey instincts running high, but he tampers it down and focuses on his mate.

When Cinaed gets winded from their little run, and rolls in the grass, Gunnar hovers over him looking down into his glowing amber eyes. The wolf licks his mate’s snout, chuckling when he lets out another adorable sneeze. Crouching down, Gunnar nuzzles his mate’s belly, breathing heavily of the lavender scent. 

@cinaedofulaid

Gunnar is such a lover with his words, bringing a warmth to the prince’s belly to be so coveted and complimented so beautifully. It makes him so aroused when he does that. He’s so sweet to him, and he makes the Prince truly feel gorgeous. And of course he wants to take a run through the meadow.

Yes yes!

Cinaed playfully nips at Gunnar’s tail, sending them into a little playful frenzy. The prince runs and runs, feeling like he could go on forever, especially when his mate is chasing him. He lets out a little whiny fox sound and turns the tables on his lover, chasing him, until he feels absolutely winded. He lays down in the grass and rolls around, liking the scent of the wildflowers.

Oof.

The tall black wolf hovers over him, licking his snout and making Cinaed sneeze. He looks like a predator this way, but the prince couldn’t possibly feel any safer. His attention is brought down to his belly when Gunnar nuzzles into it, and he would admit that it does feel a little heavier, especially in this position. It’s madness to think there’s a pup growing in there.

As Gunnar nuzzles his belly with his nose, the prince’s purrs turn audibly loud and he starts panting a little. Something about it just stirs his body, and it recognizes that Gunnar is his mate. His whiskers twitch a little and he leans up to nibble on Gunnar’s ear.

Does it feel different when you are in your fox form?

Gunnar is curious if Cinaed can feel their pup’s presence stronger. If the flutters are more noticeable. He rests his chin on his mate’s belly as his icy blue eyes take in his little fox’s glowing amber ones. He can almost feel a slight roundness that wasn’t there before, a firmness where the vessel cocoons their little one. A month and a half to go, maybe less. All he knows is that he’s excited to meet their little bean.

You’re so perfect, Cinaed…you are everything to me. Hjarta mitt, sál mín.

The crescent moon rises higher in the darkened sky casting faint light over the meadow beside the waterfall. Part of him wants to stay right here, wrapped around his little fox, but Gunnar knows they have a big day tomorrow and should probably get some rest. As soon as they finish helping Uhtred they will return home, to the comfort of their own cottage and forest.

Are you ready to head back to the cave? I need to hold my husband… 

The black wolf lets out a little whine. He’s not sure what has come over him, other than an insatiable need to hold his love close. To snuggle against him as their arms and legs are tangled around each other. Gunnar licks his mate’s belly as he take one more deep sniff of the scent radiating from him, chuckling inwardly when his mate gives him a little huff.

On his back, the heaviness is definitely there. Like the pup is bigger. Almost even a little painful until he shifts his position a bit.

You’re the perfect one. I can tell you’re going to spoil me. Tonight and every night…

Cinaed shifts a little on his back, closing his eyes as his fluffy tail wraps around Gunnar a little. He opens them and sees icy blue shining back at him with a loving, tender gaze.

Yes, very ready. Cinaed echoes as Gunnar nuzzles into his belly. He huffs as the wolf’s tongue darts out, knowing it’s going to get his slobber all over his fur… but he supposes he doesn’t mind too much. He bites Gunnar’s ear and rolls back onto his feet, shaking off a little and stretching like a cat. As they start on their way, Cinaed rubs his body along Gunnar’s again and stays very close, their steps in rhythm with one another.

Every day and night…you will be spoiled rotten.

A content feeling comes over Gunnar when Cinaed wraps his fluffy tail around one of his legs. It almost tickles, but he loves it. Especially when he looks into his little fox’s eyes and sees the adoration reflected back at him.

Alright, baby…let’s go.

Gunnar lets out a soft growl when his mate bites his ear, payback for licking his belly. Gunnar can and will do it again, it’s the closest he can get to giving their little one a kiss while they are shifted. His eyes follow Cinaed’s curves as he stretches like a cat. His belly is getting a little more noticeable and the wolf can’t help grinning. His mate’s little bottom in the air has the black wolf licking his chops.

This time when they walk to the cave, they take their time. Walking more leisurely as his mate rubs against him and stays close to his side. Warmth spreads through his body as he looks at his little fox with pride. His heart feels fit to burst with how happy he is. Gunnar licks the side of his mate’s snout before taking off on a slow run when they get close to the cave. He looks back teasingly, as Cinaed tries to get close enough to bite him again. It’s almost become a game between them. Gunnar licks his mate to get him riled up, and Cinaed bites him in retaliation. Never hard enough to hurt him, just enough to show his fiery spirit.

Gods, we’re going to have our hands full if our pup ends up like us…the wolf snickers.

The prince nips at the wolf teasingly before nuzzling the top of his head under his chin, closing his eyes and purring. Gods, his lover is so comfortable. Perhaps being in a foreign place isn’t so bad after all.

As they reach the cave, Cinaed scampers in and instantly shifts back to his human form, impatiently waiting for Gunnar to do the same and throwing his arms over his shoulders when he shifts too. The prince pulls him close and into a fervent kiss, as if he had been waiting for the opportunity for their lips to touch again, to taste him again.

“Don’t act like you don’t like it…” Cinaed says in a purring, low drawl, taking Gunnar’s hands and leading him down onto the furs. The prince practically pushes him down to his back, straddling his hips to gain control over his brooding, muscular mate. Even if imagined.

“You like untamed. Don’t you?” Cinaed purrs.

“… because then you can tame me.”

The prince bends forward, placing their chests together warmly as he runs a hand across Gunnar’s skin. He nibbles at his bottom lip, glowing amber gazing at him almost like fire in the darkness of the cave.

He’s not really planning on riding out to the border, but he can’t tell Finan the real reason for his absence. At least not yet. Not until he finishes preparing his love’s surprise, which he is desperately hoping to have ready in time for their anniversary. One year ago he married his best-friend. The one who has held his heart since the first time he laid eyes on him on the Trader, and he wants to make this anniversary special. To make up for cutting their honeymoon short, and hurting his husband in the worse possible way.

“I promise, I’ll be careful…I’ll even take some men with me.” Uhtred gives his Irishman his best puppy dog eyes, knowing Finan can’t resist them.

“I’ll make it up to you when I return…” Uhtred purrs with a seductive look in his eyes and a playful smirk.

When Finan huffs out a sigh of resignation, Uhtred can’t help but smile. He pulls Finan into a heated kiss, already imagining the special night he has planned for them. “Watch over Lachlan for me?” Uhtred softly asks, with tenderness in his voice.

When Finan nods yes, the Dane breathes a sigh of relief. He only trusts Elle, Finan and Revna to watch over his little boy. “Thank you, baby. I love you so much.” Uhtred places another gentle kiss on Finan’s lips, feeling his Irishman’s hesitation in letting him go. Hel, he’s hesitant to let him go too. The temptation to drag him back into their chambers is so strong, but he has to get this done.

“Give the girls my love, and apologize to Tora for me for taking her friend.” Uhtred smirks. Hati has become more her companion than his, but he likes the extra protection the wolf offers him especially when he’s away from home.

Before he loses his resolve, Uhtred places another kiss on Finan’s palm before striding out of the Hall, calling for Hati to follow on his way out. He had asked the guardsmen to prepare Tintreg for him, and his stallion is already stomping his feet eager for the ride. Another horse is loaded with supplies he will need to finish his project.

Clicking at Tintreg, Uhtred leads the horse to the village, or rather the outskirts. He had asked Cinaed the night of the celebration for their wedding if he could steal his husband for a day or two to help him with his project. He hopes that is still alright. As he nears the cottage set off in the woods, a smile comes to his face. The lovebirds have had a week to enjoy their honeymoon, hopefully they are ready to venture out.

Dismounting his horse, Uhtred walks to the door and knocks. He stands there a little nervously. Gunnar is an imposing man, even to him, and he wouldn’t want to get on the Northman’s bad side. Uhtred’s brows furrow as he waits with Hati beside him.

Is that growling I hear…

@askuhtredragnarson

“Yeah, you better make it up to me. And you better be careful.” The Irishman pouts.

Why isn’t he asking me to go with him?

I’m always at your side…

Despite the past year being much more homemaking than Finan has ever been used to, he doesn’t necessarily miss too much of the strife they’ve been through in recent years. Traveling with Uhtred, though… he misses it. Being on the road, camping by rivers, hunting with his Lord and his brothers. To live in Bebbanburg is an actual dream come true, but sometimes the Irishman yearns for some of the happenings not so long ago. Stolen glances and touches included, not limited to actually jumping each other’s bones in the forest after that one lustful night.

Finan is suspicious. But perhaps Uhtred just wants some time on his own. With all the raucous of their household, that’s reasonable. Right?

The Irishman nods about Lachlan, and he nods about the girls. Of course he’d make sure everything would stay in order. Even if his sanity is walking out the door.

“Goodbye, husband. Return to me.” Finan drawls in a loving voice with sparkling dark eyes.

“If you bring someone else home, you know that I’ll kill them.” He smiles when Uhtred laughs at that.

***

As they lay upon the furs on the floor by the hearth, it’s a miracle that the lovers are clothed. In this moment they are, just taking a cat nap together on the floor with Luca.

“Hey,” Cinaed says in a teasing warning when Gunnar growls at the knock at the door. Then Luca barks, loudly.

“Hey!” The prince scolds them. It’s a familiar smell. It’s Uhtred, definitely. Cinaed’s newest senses don’t allow him to forget anything these days. He stands and swings the door open despite Gunnar’s growls.

“Lord Uhtred, hello.” The prince says with a smile. “What brings you all the way out here?”

Shit, did I already piss him off…

Uhtred clears his throat then returns his smile to Cinaed. The young man is absolutely glowing. Marriage suits him. “So, uh…remember when I asked if I could steal your husband away for a couple of days to help me finish a surprise for your father? I was kind of hoping it could be now. Our anniversary is only a few days away and the only way it’ll be ready in time is if I have a little help.”

When Gunnar approaches the door, he quirks an eyebrow at his husband, an almost playful look in his eyes despite the firmness of his features. Uhtred takes it as if maybe Cinaed hasn’t had a chance to mention it to the big Northman. He can’t blame him, he’s sure their focus has been entirely on each other since their wedding.

“Gunnar.” Uhtred gives the warrior a nod in greeting. “As I was saying…I was hoping you could come with me for a couple days and help me finish the surprise I’ve been working on for Finan. I’ve been working on it for the last few months and it’s so close to being done. I just need to have it completed by Lughnasadh.”

Uhtred watches as Gunnar protectively takes his husband’s hand as he looks first in Cinaed’s eyes and then his. “I would be happy to come help, but I won’t leave my husband behind. I only go if he goes too.” There is a little bit of a challenge in the Northman’s eyes, along with something else the Dane isn’t quite sure of. Maybe protectiveness, like he is guarding something precious.

“Fair enough…the more the merrier. Bring him, and your pup.” Uhtred’s smile turns into a smirk as he nods at Gunnar. “I trust both of you can keep a secret?” Uhtred’s not sure why he even asks that. There is so much mystery surrounding the couple. Things he has yet to learn about them.

“It’s a few hours ride to the spot. I have food and supplies, and I figured we could spent the night there. It’s a special place I took Finan to one time.” Uhtred explains.

…months? What could Uhtred possibly have been working on for months? Cinaed thinks. He did sort of offer his husband’s help without him knowing, but the little smirk the Northman gives him tells him it’ll be okay. Or that he’ll be punished for it later. Or both.

“Don’t worry, darling. I’ll come. Just let me pack a few things…” Cinaed grins, squeezing Gunnar’s hand before letting him go and whistling for Luca.

“Uhtred, come on in.” The prince says, swinging their door open wider for the Dane.

I trust both of you can keep a secret?

Cinaed gives Gunnar a playful smile before looking back at Uhtred. “Oh, we are very, very good at it…” he almost snickers.

“I’ll pack us some food as well. Luca is um…” the prince looks down at their pup. Just don’t shift in front of Uhtred, stinker. Instead of finishing his sentence, the prince just moves to grab a pack and fill it with a few of their non-negotiables and some changes of clothes. Then, he heads to the kitchen to pack a few more supplies.

“Few hours ride?” Cinaed asks. “So what is this place to you? Tell us the story.” The prince smiles.

Uhtred is shaken from his musing when Cinaed asks about the special place he’s taking them to. “Oh, uh…it’s a special place I found as a child. When Bebbanburg was my home, before I lost it to my uncle. My father was a cruel man, and I think he only ever saw me as a nuisance. His attention was always focused on my older brother, the heir of Bebbanburg. I used to go out, deep into the forest, to get away from him. Play and explore for days before I would return home. He barely noticed my absence.

One day I found this special place. A small valley meadow surrounded by hills and large rocks. There is a hidden path to it, so I doubt anyone knows about it. A gorgeous waterfall is there and a crystal clear pool of water where I would splash and play for hours. Behind the waterfall is a small cave where I would sleep. It’s beautiful, almost like a fairytale…” Uhtred smiles wistfully as he thinks about his favorite place. It feels almost magical, and maybe that’s why he was so drawn to it.

After Cinaed gathers the supplies, they head outside where the horses and Hati are waiting. Uhtred watches as Gunnar pulls his brown stallion out of the stable with and another almost white horse. Uhtred watches curiously as Hati tucks his tail when Gunnar gets near, giving the warrior obedient eyes.

“Do you want to ride with me, baby?” Gunnar asks his husband as Cinaed clutches Luca to his chest. The Dane can see in the warrior’s eyes that he wants him to, and a soft smile comes to Uhtred’s face. You wouldn’t think it looking at Gunnar, cause he’s such a formidable warrior, but he has such tenderness when he looks into his husband’s eyes. It reminds Uhtred of him and Finan.

The Dane waits to tell the rest of the story about the first time he took Finan there, until they are on the road.

“I think we have everything we need.” The prince softly muses, following the two men outside. He carries Luca and whispers a few sweet words to Hati, if only to calm him a little in Gunnar’s presence… so that Uhtred hopefully won’t notice.

“Yes, please…” The prince purrs to his husband, taking Gunnar’s hand and swiftly mounting up once the packs are secured. He can’t really imagine being two feet or more from Gunnar ever again. Not before, and definitely not after they felt the fluttering of their pup in his belly.

“So, this place is already naturally beautiful…” Cinaed muses to Uhtred as they get on the road.

“… what exactly has taken you months, and now more effort to achieve, Lord?”

Honestly, he just wants to see the prince and Northman’s reaction, without spoiling the surprise. Uhtred and Gunnar’s horses ride side by side, with the pack horses following. The Dane smiles when Luca falls asleep in Cinaed’s arms, the prince whispering tender words in the pup’s ears. You would think the pup is their child with how doting they are to him, and perhaps he is, like a child to them.

“So, this place is special to you and Finan?” Gunnar softly asks as he shares a glance with the Dane. His arm is tenderly wrapped around Cinaed’s waist, fingers splayed on the prince’s stomach.

A bittersweet smile comes to the Dane’s face, remembering the events leading up to him taking his husband to the waterfall. “It was my attempt to show my husband how special he is to me…after almost losing him.”

“Losing him? Finan looks at you as if you’re the only person in the room.” Gunnar gives the Dane a confused look.

“I hurt him…in the worst possible way.” Uhtred shakes his head letting out a soft sigh. “I should have postponed our march to Bebbanburg after our wedding, given us more time as newlyweds. Enjoyed our honeymoon a little bit longer…

…but I was anxious to give him and our family a home. To give them Bebbanburg where they would all be safe.” Uhtred shares a glance with Gunnar and Cinaed, regret heavy in his eyes.

“I almost died from that battle, and I ripped out my husband’s heart in the process. If it wouldn’t have been for Revna saving me…” Uhtred shakes his head again. The thought of the heartbreak his husband felt, not knowing if he was going to live or die, kills him inside. They were supposed to be celebrating their victory after defeating Wihtgar, celebrating their new home. Instead, his husband kept vigil over him, hoping and praying he would wake up.

“After I woke up, all I wanted was to be close to my husband. To feel him…to…” touch him. Uhtred trails off as mistiness comes to his eyes and he quickly blinks it away. “I didn’t understand the pain Finan was in, seeing me like that. The fear he felt almost losing me. I said some hurtful things. I lashed out at him, because every time I tried to pull him close he begged distanced from me.

Finan was so upset with me…and rightfully so, he ordered the guardsmen to pack up his and Revna’s belongings. Said they were going to return to Ulaid, and leave me behind. Revna talked some sense into me, helped me to understand the pain Finan was in. I sought out my husband to make things right.” 

Uhtred lets out a soft chuckle. “He did not make it easy on me, but thankfully he accepted my apology. I told him I wanted to take him away. To someplace special to make it up to him. So I took him to my waterfall, and we spent a few days there just reconnecting. Reminding each other how much we love one another.”

Cinaed listens intently to Uhtred’s words, his heart empathizing instantly. To be quite honest, he doesn’t understand the polyamory. He’d rather die than see Gunnar’s hands on another. And if another put their hand on him, he’d sever it from their arm with his sword. Regardless, for Finan and Uhtred, it just seems to… work for them. The free love. And there’s nothing wrong with that, he supposes, because they are dedicated to each other within their little circle. When Uhtred mentions almost losing his life and the pain his father suffered for it, the prince feels Gunnar’s hold tighten around him, no doubt reliving the pain he himself felt when Cinaed fell.

“It was like a second honeymoon,” the prince muses with a beaming smile.

Gods, Finan is so stubborn. He literally almost left him?

“My father is really pig headed it seems. But… perhaps he just wanted to see you fight for him.” Cinaed smirks at Uhtred.

“You too seem to have a very special relationship. Best friends? I can see how that would quickly turn fervent, in the right circumstances.”

The Dane chuckles at Cinaed’s pig headed comment about his father, a smirk curling his lips. “It doesn’t help that I’m sometimes a bastard. It wasn’t the first argument we’ve had, but hopefully it was the last. Revna helps both of us see the fault in our ways when we are both being stubborn. She seems to be the only one that can talk sense into us.”

“I know it seems a bit unorthodox…Revna and I sharing Finan.” Uhtred shares a look with the Northman, understanding if he is not keen on the idea of his daughter’s husband being with another. “…but it works between us. I have the upmost respect for your daughter, she is a beautiful woman with a loving soul. We both balance Finan in different ways. I give him strength and she gives him tenderness and understanding. We both love him with all our hearts, and I would protect her with my life just as I would Finan. We are a family.”

Gunnar gives the Dane a nod. He doesn’t seem to look down on him, and Uhtred appreciates that. The Northman may not fully understand, Hel most people don’t, but Uhtred wouldn’t trade it for the world.

“Yes, best friends. We met on the Trader, when I was sold into slavery. I’m sure you’ve heard the stories of how your father ended up there.” Uhtred shares a knowing look with Cinaed. He’s sure everyone in Ulaid knows the story of the dark prince. “I was betrayed by someone I considered a friend, me and one of my men. If it hadn’t been for Finan, I don’t think I would have made it off that ship alive. He was my rock, the one who gave me strength. But it would be over a decade later before we shared our true feelings for one another.”

As they draw near the secret meadow, Uhtred leads Gunnar and Cinaed to a hidden path between two boulders. The trail is narrow and winding, but before too long they come out on the other side. A lush green meadow before them with the sound of rushing water from the waterfall. Uhtred smiles when the one room cabin he has been building comes into view. It’s nestled in-between some large trees, close to the pool of water from the waterfall. The main part left to finish is the roof, the rest of the cabin has been framed and boards put up for walls. A medium sized window on the front next to the door, and another window on the side facing the waterfall.

Uhtred nods towards his creation, proud of the work he has finished so far. “The roof needs completed, and finishing touches inside to make it feel cozy. Think your father will like it?” Uhtred looks at Cinaed with a playful smirk on his face.

“We would never dream of judging your situation, especially when it appears so healthy and full of love.” Cinaed assures Uhtred. He really likes him. He likes all of them, regardless of not being quite comfortable at the fortress yet.

“I’ve heard the stories. I was young, but… I was there.” Cinaed says, offering a placating smile. It’s not a time he likes to look back on. The ripple effect of those events lasted in Ulaid for years.

“… a decade?!” Cinaed repeats incredulously. How?! The prince can’t imagine that.

The prince’s words are quickly stifled when the cottage Uhtred has been building comes into view, nestled close to the beautiful waterfall and a pool of the clearest waters. It’s perfect. Serenity at its finest.

“Uhtred… of course,” Cinaed answers him when he asks if his father will like it. What’s better than a cottage far from anyone else to spend some fervent time with the person who holds your heart? The prince can definitely relate.

“He’ll love it!”

“Good…I’m glad to hear it. I want it to be special for Finan. A place all our own that we can escape to when we need some alone time.” Uhtred has been wanting to give this to Finan for a long time. Sure they have their chambers in the fortress where they can spend time together, but sometimes they both just need to get back to their roots. To have a chance to decompress from the chaos of being Lords of Bebbanburg. Not to mention the fond memories of them and the forest.

As they near the cottage, Uhtred points at a wagon off to the side. “Furniture and household furnishing are in the wagon. Lots of furs, since Finan always complains that he’s freezing.” Uhtred chuckles. “The rest of the lumber for the roof is behind the wagon, and some bales of thatch to keep the roof from leaking. We should have everything we need to finish it.”

“So, I was thinking Gunnar and I could work on finishing the roof, if you want to start unpacking the supplies for inside?” Uhtred looks at Cinaed. He’s sure the prince will want to keep a close eye on the pup to make sure he stays out of the way so he doesn’t get hurt.

Gunnar helps Cinaed and Luca down from the horse. Their pup suddenly full of energy after his long nap. As soon as Cinaed sets him down on the ground, Luca starts chasing a butterfly, barking at it as he tries to catch it.

Before Cinaed heads to the wagon to see what’s inside, Gunnar grabs his hand and pulls him back towards him. “Leave the heavy furniture and boxes for me and Uhtred to carry in…okay? I don’t want you to get hurt.” Gunnar gives his husband a stern but tender look as his eyes trail down to his stomach then back to the prince’s eyes in some unspoken communication. Uhtred gives the two a curious look, wondering what that is all about.

The Dane turns away when he sees Gunnar cup Cinaed’s cheek and pull him into a tender kiss, trying to be respectful and give the lover’s some privacy. Hati follows little Luca around, almost like a mother hen, and Uhtred can’t help but chuckle. At least Cinaed and Gunnar will have another set of eyes watching over their pup.

Uhtred grabs some work gloves from his saddle bags while Cinaed and Gunnar finish their moment together. When the Northman approaches him, Uhtred smiles. “Ready to get started?” To which Gunnar nods.

“Sure, Lord.” The prince says with an unaffected tone despite his inner thoughts. He chuckles when his pup instantly bolts from his arms, then his worrisome husband pulls him close and gives him those tender eyes. Cinaed tilts his head at him as he speaks in that low, gravelly voice.

Wait… does that mean Uhtred knows? Is that why he suggested I stay off the roof? Fuck.

“Baby… I’ll be fine. I promise. It’s so early on, right? And my body is resilient. Very much so. Yeah?” Cinaed purrs, giving Gunnar a tender little kiss as the Northman cups his cheek. There’s no way the Dane knows. Perhaps he just… senses something.

“Better get cracking…” Cinaed grins teasingly as he pulls away. “Roof won’t finish itself!”

As the prince moves for some of the inner workings of the cottage, he ties his hair back and decides to just remove his tunic. The summer sun is quite warm, and hell, he might even take a dip while the oh so strong men work.

“I love both of you…” Gunnar cups Cinaed cheek as he leans in to give his mate a tender kiss, his thumb softly caressing his skin. “…with every breath.”

A little smirk curls Gunnar’s lips when his husband tells him to get cracking. “You just wait…it’ll be my hand cracking over your arse for not telling me about this sooner.” The warrior raises his eyebrow at his mate teasingly. He gives Cinaed another deep kiss, before heading towards Uhtred to get started.

“Shit…did I piss him off? I didn’t mean to imply he couldn’t help with the roof…” Uhtred asks the Northman in a hushed tone, while he glances at Cinaed with a worried look.

Gunnar smirks at the worry in Uhtred’s voice for offending his mate. How does he say this without giving away Cinaed’s condition. The roof is the last place his mate should be. If he were to fall…Gunnar doesn’t even want to finish that thought, shaking his head.

“It’s fine, Uhtred…he knows you mean well.” Gunnar reassures the Dane.

“If you’re sure…” Uhtred looks into Gunnar’s icy blue eyes, not completely convinced he didn’t just make a huge blunder. “I’ll apologize to him…if he wants to—“

“No!” The Northman reaches out to stop Uhtred. “It’s better that he stays on the ground. Trust me.”

Not wanting to anger the Northman, Uhtred gives him a nod as they head to the woodpile. After moving the boards closer to the cottage, Uhtred fills a pouch on his waist with nails and grabs a hammer. He climbs the ladder to the roof, letting Gunnar hand him up one of the boards to nail in place. Having an extra set of hands makes the process go so much quicker and within a couple hours they have all the boards in place. Gunnar comes up and helps him finish nailing all the boards and then cut out a notch for the chimney for the hearth.

When the two men stop for a little break before adding the thatch, Gunnar and Uhtred both shed their sweaty tunics. Their muscles rippling in the sunlight. Tying a rope to one of the bundles of thatch, they hoist it onto the roof, before climbing up to spread it out. They do the same for the second bundle and the third, until the entire roof is covered.

Once they are finished, Uhtred is smiling like crazy. Excited that he is one step closer to giving his love a special gift. Gunnar spots Cinaed sitting in the grass playing with Hati and Luca, tossing a stick for them to chase after. The warrior stalks towards his mate, before pouncing on him, laying Cinaed down in the grass and attacking his neck with kisses and tickles from his beard until he is giggling and screeching.

Fuck, he loves him so much…he makes him the happiest man in the world.

The prince giggles at Gunnar’s teasing, thinking it perhaps wouldn’t be too unpleasant. He fucking loves when the Northman does that, after all.

“Yeah, yeah…” Cinaed brushes him off, before melting into his deep kiss. Their eyes linger on each other as they gradually pull away and Gunnar joins Uhtred. The prince gets to work unloading furs and supplies, gradually taking them inside and leaving them in an orderly fashion. He tries not to carry too much at a time or too quickly, for Gunnar and their pup’s sake, but it’s unnatural to do so. Once a significant amount of time has passed, Cinaed decides to take a little break. He sits in the shade and starts throwing sticks for Hati and Luca, chuckling at how excited it makes them.

Cinaed groans and takes a sip from his water skin, an uneasy feeling coming over him.

Fucking nauseous.

It only lasts a little while, and the shade and water helps, but damn. Then he is so joyously distracted as Gunnar pounces on him, tickling him relentlessly. Even with Uhtred nearby there’s no way the prince could contain his giggles.

“Aghhh stop it!”

The Northman relents when Cinaed touches his bite with his lips and gives him kisses, almost as if it calms the storm. He lays back in the grass and folds his hands behind his head.

“Wow. Is the roof done? That looks much better. Insulated… Uhtred, what’s next?” Cinaed asks the Dane, smiling at his obvious radiating happiness.

Letting out a breathy laugh, Gunnar relents his tickle assault on his husband when Cinaed kisses his mark. It’s madness how his mate can subdue him with a simple kiss on a scar, flooding his body with calm, among other sensations. Like his cock twitching in his trousers. The Northman takes in a deep breath trying to calm the sudden heat flowing through him.

“That’s not even fair…” he teases his mate with a whisper, before sitting back and taking in his gorgeous man. His hand reaches out of it’s own volition and settles softly on Cinaed’s belly. He really shouldn’t do that in Uhtred’s presence, but he just can’t help himself.

Uhtred grins taking in the display between the Northman and the prince. Seeing the love between them is palpable, and it warms his heart. He understands Finan’s protectiveness towards his son, and his hesitation letting the two of them be together, but if he just saw this side of them he would know, without a shred of doubt, they are meant to be together. Uhtred glances away, looking at the cottage again, while Cinaed and Gunnar have their moment. Not wanting to impose.

“Yes, the roof is done. Thank you, Gunnar. And thank you, Cinaed for helping to unload the wagon.” Uhtred grins in happiness. “Uh…I have some cupboards that need to be hung inside, I could use a hand with. Other than that, just finishing the top sections of the walls and getting everything put away.”

Gunnar stands up, then offers his hand to his husband to help him rise, then all three men head into the cottage. A large bed frame sits in one corner of the big room, and the bottom cabinets in the kitchen area have already been placed. A stone hearth sits in the center of one wall. Uhtred explains the arrangement of the furniture, the bed in one corner, a couch and rugs in front of the hearth, and table and chairs near the kitchen area. The Dane smiles as he pictures the cottage coming together.

“I had thought of ordering a bathing tub…but then with the beautiful waterfall and pool of water, I figured it wasn’t necessary.” Uhtred muses with a mischievous smile. “…besides, it gives me an excuse to warm Finan up.” The Dane softly snickers. He highly doubts he and Finan will be here in the winter, and in the summer the water outside is actually quite warm.

“Maybe we finish up these walls,” Uhtred points up at the section where the wall is supposed to meet the roof. “…then we can make some supper.”

“Excellent! You’re welcome!” Cinaed beams, taking Gunnar’s hand to help him stand. “Yes, let’s get it all squared away.”

As they enter the cottage, Cinaed admires it with his gaze, his eyes darting to all of the finer details and the parts that make it feel like a home. It might be a getaway, but it’s a home nonetheless with the effort the Dane has put into it. It’s actually quite beautiful, and the prince can’t believe that Uhtred did it all on his own up to this point. It probably took a long time.

“I think the water outside is plenty.” Cinaed adds, with a smirk. It’s definitely a great place to bathe. At first, the prince was feeling left out of the more masculine tasks, and now he just wants to sit and get comfy.

“Hurry, Gunnar, so I can have supper.” Cinaed says, grinning when the Northman raises his eyebrow. Gods, he loves that look.

“I’m kidding!” He snickers. “C’mon, I’ll help.”

Although, in Cinaed’s case, Gunnar highly doubts it would be a punishment, as lust darkens in his eyes. His mate would be so wet for him… Gunnar lets out a soft groan as he tries to shake the images from his mind, his cock already half hard. He quickly readjusts himself before turning his attention to the task at hand.

After heading back outside, Uhtred and Gunnar cut the boards to fit the open spots above the wall where it meets the roof. Just like before Gunnar hands up the boards after measuring and cutting them to fit, and Uhtred nails them in place. Together they quickly compete each side, fully enclosing the inside to the elements. When Uhtred steps off the ladder he looks up in wonderment, happy that the outside is finally finished, and one step closer to bringing his husband to see his surprise.

“Thank you again, Gunnar. It would have taken weeks for me to get this all done myself.” Uhtred gives the Northman a grateful smile.

Clapping Uhtred on the back, Gunnar returns his smile, proud that they were able to work together on this for Finan. “I’m happy to help. Despite everything in the past, I know Finan is a good man and he deserves this. Both of you do.”

“…now we better prepare some supper.” Gunnar grins as they head back inside. He finds Cinaed curled up on some furs taking a nap with Luca and Hati, and Gods, does his stomach flutter at the sight. In less than a couple months, their little bean will be curled up with them, and the Northman is so excited.

“Should we wake him?” Uhtred quietly asks.

Gunnar quickly bites back a growl, reminding himself where they are at and in who’s company. “No. Let him rest…he’ll wake when the food is ready.”

Uhtred pulls out some deer meat from one of his packs, and some vegetables, before cutting it all up and throwing it in a pot with some water. Gunnar starts a fire in the hearth, that Uhtred uses to cook the stew.

“I also have some bread and cheese to go with the stew…” Uhtred offers as he glances at the Northman.

But Gunnar only has eyes for Cinaed. Watching his little fox snuggle into the furs while he holds Luca close to him. A tender smile on the warrior’s face.

As the other men dive back in, Cinaed continues his unpacking and pulls out a few of Uhtred’s furs. The feel of them alone is very, very tempting.

Maybe just a cat nap…

The prince has never slept so much as he has in the past few days. It’s almost like his body is fending off an illness, but not quite. It’s a warmer feeling, like he’s fending for his little one, and his body needs extra rest to make up for it. And extra food. Plenty of extra food. As he spreads out a fur, he literally walks in a little circle as if he was in his fox form before laying down, Luca quickly joining him and Hati staying on their heels. Even with the hammering in the distance, Cinaed closes his eyes and he is out.

A while later, the prince’s nose twitches and flares at the smell of food before he even wakes. In fact, it’s exactly what wakes him. Cinaed opens his eyes slowly and gives his lover a sleepy smile as Gunnar stares down at him, a look in the prince’s eyes of pure adoration.

“Why are you staring at me? Creepy.” The prince grins.

“Careful, little fox…” Gunnar growls in a whisper. “Your bottom is going to be so sore by the time I’m done with you.” He leans in and captures Cinaed’s lips in a heated kiss. Biting his bottom lip as a taste of what’s to come if he continues being a smart mouth.

Even as he says it, Gunnar has to fight off his own arousal settling deep in his groin. His breaths getting heavier as Cinaed’s tantalizing scent sets over him. This is neither the time or place, with Uhtred only on the other side of the room.

“Behave…” Gunnar whispers in a low tone, before leading his husband to where Uhtred is dishing up the stew into bowls. He hands one to Cinaed, along with a hunk of bread before taking his own and leading them back over to the furs to sit and eat. Both of them share pieces with Luca, while Uhtred shares with Hati.

“After we finish eating, Cinaed and I will head to the waterfall and bathe. Would you mind keeping an eye on Luca?” The Northman asks the Dane.

Uhtred looks up with a teasing smile. He’d be blind not to see the heat and tension between the two lovers. Hel, they are still newlyweds. “I don’t mind. He and Hati seem to get along well. Now that the cottage is finished, except for the little stuff, we could call it a night and finish up in the morning before heading home.

There is a cave behind the waterfall, if you would like some privacy for the night. Finan and I slept there the last time we came here. Just take some extra furs with you, and anything else you need. I can watch over your pup tonight.” Uhtred offers as he tears off a chunk of bread before eating it.

Behave…

No!

“Yes, lover…” The prince purrs, almost inaudibly as he lets his eyes do the talking, a fiery challenge behind them. He follows Gunnar to their food and his attentions shift to Luca, as well as the growl in his belly. But when Gunnar tells Uhtred that they will be going to the river to bathe, the prince’s eyes shoot up from his bowl in surprise.

“We are? Oh…” the prince says, a little blush rising to his cheeks. There’s definitely no hiding this thing between them in front of Uhtred now. And then, the Lord of Bebbanburg seals his fate by offering them a cave, and offering to watch their child.

“Uhtred, that’s so kind, but um…” the prince says, then yelps a little when Gunnar grabs his thigh and pinches it between his large hand.

“… thank you. We’d love it.” He smirks, obediently relenting.

“This food is amazing, damn.”

Fuck, who’s the one actually being punished here. Him or me…

A low growl rumbles in his chest before he has a chance to stop it. Cinaed’s little smirk when he hears the sound, only fanning the flames. Gunnar pastes a smile on his face, hiding his internal turmoil, as he finishes eating his stew.

Uhtred’s offer of the cave for the night has Gunnar gloating inside. If Cinaed thinks he’s safe from punishment with the Dane nearby, he is sorely mistaken. The sound of the waterfall will muffle any moans or growls from the two of them as the Northman has his way with his mate. As soon as Cinaed says but, Gunnar squeezes his thigh to still his tongue.

“We greatly appreciate the offer Uhtred…I’m sure my husband and I will welcome the privacy.” The Northman returns his mate’s smirk. He almost busts out laughing when Cinaed turns their attention back to the food.

“Eat up, beloved…it’s going to be a long night.” Gunnar teases his lover with a challenging look in his eyes.

After they finish their food, Gunnar and Cinaed help Uhtred clean up the dishes, before gathering drying towels, a mountain of furs, and their essentials. Gunnar leans down and gives Luca a kiss on the top of his head while scratching under the pup’s chin.

“Be good for Uhtred. No sass and you go to bed when he says. I love you, and we’ll see you in the morning.” Luca lets out a little bark in answer, his eyes reflecting his obedience to his alpha. Gunnar gives Cinaed a moment to say his good nights as well.

“Thank you again, Uhtred.” Gunnar nods at the Dane before he ushers Cinaed out the door.

“Goodnight, baby… be good, okay?” Cinaed coos at their pup. “Love you darling. Be so good. We won’t be far.”

As Gunnar ushers him out the door, the prince almost disobediently stiffens before falling into stride. How could he?! Uhtred invited them here and they are abandoning him. Cinaed almost fumes a little at those thoughts before the captivating waterfall catches his attention, and the cave Uhtred mentioned. It’s very secluded, and comfortable.

“Gunnar… how dare you?!” The prince says once they’re safe away, but with a grin he can’t prevent. “Baby we are his guests, Jesus Christ…”

“If anything, I’m doing the Dane a service. I doubt your step-father wants to be kept up all night listening to your moans and screams.” A teasing smirk comes to the Northman’s face as he drops the heap of furs on the floor of the cave. The sound of the waterfall muffling any other sounds around them.

“Besides…I figured you might need to shift, and neither one of us wants to do that in front of Uhtred.” Gunnar rationalizes, giving his husband a loving look. Cinaed’s body is going through so many changes carrying their pup, not to mention any side effects he’s probably feeling being pregnant. Shifting in his fox form might be a welcome feeling, even for a little bit.

Feeling sweaty and dirty from all the work on the cottage, Gunnar quickly sheds his boots and trousers. He left his dirty tunic on the wagon earlier when he and Uhtred were working on the roof. The cool water from the pool sounds amazing right now. Not only that, but the thought of feeling his husband’s naked body against his has his cock already thickening.

“Ready for our bath?” Gunnar smirks at his mate, curious if he will come willingly, or if the warrior is going to have to throw him over his shoulder and wade in.

The prince narrows his eyes at his mate, his words making him feel both stubborn and aroused.

Moans and screams. The nerve of this man!

Cinaed looks down to hide his smile. Yes, he does need to shift. Gunnar is such an amazing mix of feral and tender towards him, and it makes his fucking heart soar. He always knows what he needs. But still, something about all of this makes him defiant. Perhaps he’s just testing his alpha for the first time… or it could be the rush of hormones his fox is experiencing.

“Agh, fine… I suppose.” The prince huffs, kicking off his own boots and throwing off his tunic.

“Oh, and I wouldn’t have kept Uhtred up with moans and screams. Perhaps I wouldn’t have let you that close to me, hm?”

But who the fuck am I kidding…

Holding out his hand, Gunnar leads Cinaed into the pool. The spray from the waterfall instantly coating them with moisture. The warrior lets out a soft sigh feeling the cool, refreshing water lapping at his skin. Rinsing the sweat and dirt from his body. He dunks his head under water for a moment getting his braids wet and cleaning the smudges from his face. He lathers soap in his hand washing himself before turning his attention to his mate. Despite Cinaed’s defiance today, he can see how much he is enjoying the warrior’s hands rubbing the suds all over his body.

Gunnar pays particular attention to the area between Cinaed’s legs. He tries to keep his touches casual, but when he gets close to his mate’s rim, he rubs a tantalizing finger over his entrance. He hears the muffled whimper his mate lets out, even if Cinaed tries to hide it. He does it again, with a wicked smile on his face.

“So you wouldn’t have let me close to you, hm?” The warrior teases as his mate tries to press his arse against the fingers teasing him. He lets one of his fingers slip inside, barely, before quickly withdrawing it. Smiling when he hears Cinaed’s sharp intake of breath, and the subsequent whine.

“So would you rather I not touch you?” Gunnar husks in a seductive tone as his fingers tease over his mate’s opening again. When Cinaed turns fiery eyes at him, Gunnar bites back a smirk.

“Hmm…I take that as a no?” Gunnar raises an eyebrow before claiming Cinaed’s lips in a heated kiss. Nibbling on his bottom lip. “If so, does that mean you’re going to take your punishment like a good boy?”

Gunnar’s fingers inevitably run across a very sensitive spot, and the prince tries to hide the way his body lit up like a flame to it. The Northman has a smug, wicked smile as Cinaed instinctively arches his hips to his hand.

He’s teasing me.

The prince’s gaze turns fiery and stubborn. Of course it’s a no!

When Gunnar kisses him, Cinaed moans into his mouth, like the Northman had been teasing him and edging him way past his tolerance. Then, he growls, deep under his breath as his amber eyes challenge his lover. He wants to be good… especially if it gets him such sweet release and proximity. But his fox seemingly has other ideas.

“So, not a good boy…” The warrior murmurs as he tilts his head at his mate, his own eyes turning icy at the challenge. Before Cinaed has a chance to react, Gunnar swoops him up in his arms and carries him to the furs in the cave. The fiery look in Cinaed’s eyes might deter a lesser man, but not his mate, not his alpha.

Laying his mate out on the furs, Cinaed’s growls get a little louder, and damn if Gunnar’s cock doesn’t get harder from the sound. His purrs and growls does something to the Northman’s stomach, causing it to flutter in delight anytime he hears them. Any sound his little fox makes makes him mad with lust.

“Is there something you need?” Gunnar husks as he rakes his teeth over the peaks of Cinaed’s chest before flicking each one with his tongue. His fingers tease down his mate’s chest, tracing the lines of his muscles before inching dangerously close to his love’s cock. He bypasses it to trail his fingers down Cinaed’s thighs, watching as goosebumps spread across his skin.

“Use your words, baby…”

Put me down!!

Grrrrr.

Cinaed thrashes a little as Gunnar carries him, growing more stubborn by the minute. He has no idea what’s gotten into him. It must be this place… his pup. Something. Things have grown increasingly animalistic between them, especially with Cinaed’s first full moon, but it’s usually only of pleasure. The prince has never growled at him like this, and the growls get a little louder as the Northman sets him down on the furs. Perhaps Gunnar was right… perhaps he needs to shift.

What’s gotten into me? …

As the Northman teases, bites, and licks at the peaks of his chest, Cinaed feels like he’ll explode. Something I need? Fuck. It’s almost painful, whatever part of him is gnawing at the surface. It has to be this switch of locations. It has to be. Why would he challenge his alpha like this? He fucking loves him.

“I need you to…agh…” the prince groans, closing his eyes. As his amber gaze flicks open again, his eyes filter over Gunnar’s impressive physique, all the way down to his hardening cock. Fuck, it looks so good. He just needs him to fuck this fight out of him, perhaps.

Cinaed suddenly arches up a little, nuzzling his cheek against the Northman’s, scenting him over and over as the growling in his chest is replaced by steady, rhythmic purrs.

“Need you inside me.” Cinaed purrs in his ear, before turning around on all fours for his mate.

A tender smile comes to Gunnar’s face when his mate starts scenting him, rubbing their cheeks together. Cinaed’s growls slowly shifting to purrs as his alpha scent starts to soothe him. The tingling of Gunnar’s core gets stronger when his mate purrs in his ear.

“Fuck, your so beautiful…” Gunnar husks when Cinaed shifts to all fours presenting himself for his alpha. His cock already rock hard and leaking.

Trailing his hand down Cinaed’s back, Gunnar shifts behind him. He can already smell his husband’s arousal heavy in the air before he even touches him. Placing a hand on each cheek, the warrior spreads him wider before leaning in to lick a wide strip over Cinaed’s rim. Gods, the taste of his wetness causing his cock to twitch.

“Mm, baby…so sweet.” Gunnar purrs before leaving a bite on Cinaed’s arse cheek. It satisfies his alpha seeing his mark on his mate. A claim that only he can make.

Lining his cock up at Cinaed’s entrance, Gunnar pauses as the head rests at his rim. Usually he opens his mate up with his fingers or his tongue, but something inside him tells him that his mate needs his cock more than anything. He slowly applies pressure until his cockhead breeches Cinaed’s ring of muscle, then he waits, giving him time to adjust.

“Tell me when you’re ready for more…” Gunnar softly rasps with a strangled breath. Fuck, he’s so tight…

Something about all of this is inherently controlled by his Fox form, and Cinaed has to bow to it. Perhaps just how Gunnar did in the beginning of his own shifts. His animal form won’t relent for anything in this circumstance besides the prospect of mating, and even the thought of it calms him. Perhaps because it’s such a natural act, in an unnatural place.

The prince’s eyes roll back and close when Gunnar licks his arse, his hips instantly shuddering at the sensation. And then, he bites him, and the pain feels so fucking good.

Please. Fuck.

Cinaed could beg for it, but Gunnar doesn’t make him. He sheaths his cock inside him so perfectly and lets the heavy weight of it settle while the prince starts fucking reeling.

“Gerðu það. Gefðu mér meira. Ég þarf meira…” Cinaed purrs, speaking to Gunnar in his native language in a last ditch attempt to ground him from whatever madness has been brought out in him. The prince kneels forward to rest his chest down, keeping his hips up for his lover as he rotates to look at him, giving him the most fervent fuck-me eyes he’s ever had.

“You like it when I mark you, don’t you?” The Northman purrs. When he’s half way inside his mate he smacks his arse with his palm, watching as his handprint blooms red on Cinaed’s fair skin. Gunnar breathes in a shuddering breath when his mate clenches around his cock, strangling his length. The pleasure mixed with pain reverberating through their pair bond.

The look in Cinaed’s eyes almost does him in. Those fuck-me eyes shredding what little control Gunnar has left. He grips Cinaed’s hips and drags him back against his cock, hard, burying himself inside him.

“Fuck baby…” he growls as his length throbs inside his lover. “Svona góður strákur…”

Gunnar forces himself to wait again, to let his mate adjust to being stretched wide around him, but when Cinaed eagerly wiggles his bottom against him, he can’t wait any longer. He pulls out, almost to the tip, then thrusts in hard. He does it again and again as the sounds of skin slapping against skin echoes in the cave.

“This is what you need…for your alpha to dominate you.” Gunnar growls as he thrusts in deep, his toes curling with each pass.

Fuck, exactly what I needed…

Gunnar is so tentative, as if he’s worried to hurt Cinaed or cause him any pain, but it’s been different ever since his first shift. The prince’s body accepts him instantly, the Northman’s words enough to have Cinaed leaking for him. Perhaps his fox has made him a little slutty.

“I fucking love it when you mark me.” The Prince purrs, hissing as Gunnar slaps his arse hard enough to make it sting. Fuck he loves that. It feels so good that he strangles his lover’s cock inside him, clenching and gripping him as Cinaed gives him that fervent gaze from below. With a strong grip the Northman pulls him back and sheathes himself fully, and it makes the Prince whimper.

“Deeper, baby. Make me feel it…” Cinaed mutters, rewarded with exactly that as his toes curl beneath him. He wants Gunnar to bite him again. To mark him on his arse again, to feel those rough hands again. A dark, damp, desolate cave and they are fucking like their lives depend on it, as they always do. Damn Gunnar and his beautiful physique and that pretty, gravelly voice. It’s irresistible.

“Fuck, baby…” the warrior growls as his husband pushes back against him. Gods, he just wants to devour Cinaed, place his marks all over his body. He smacks his mate’s other arse cheek, smiling at the red handprint flaring out. “Gods, your look so beautiful with my marks all over you. Completely and utterly mine.”

Moving his hips fervently, back and forth, Gunnar’s head rolls back as a deep moan rumbles from his chest. The scent of his mate wrapping around him gives him a heady feeling. The slick leaking out of his lover each time he pulls out is making him mad with hunger. Looking down, Gunnar watches as his cock slides in and out of his mate, filling him up with each pass.

Gathering some of Cinaed’s leaking wetness on his fingers, his guides them to his mate’s mouth. A smirk curling the warrior’s face when his husband doesn’t hesitate to take what he is offering. Cinaed’s tongue wraps around his fingers as they dive into his mouth, licking the wetness from his fingers. Fuck it’s so hot, and Gunnar’s cock twitches deep inside him as he buries himself to the hilt.

“See how good you taste, baby?” Gunnar purrs. “I could feast on you all night.

Cinaed jumps when the Northman’s strong hand lands on his arse again, something about the burning shock of it making his stomach flutter and his cock twitch. It’s another feral display of his husband’s need that makes him fucking ache, and more than that it makes him whine for more.

“Yes, yes, fuck…” the prince moans as Gunnar’s hips slap against him, each thrust hitting a very special spot. He’s still a little edgy— but if his alpha, his mate feels safe to be here doing this, he should too. Cinaed is instantly distracted from that thought when the Northman brings his fingers to his mouth. He obediently takes them between his lips and sucks them, twirling his tongue against the pads. He tastes himself and he groans, guttural and primal.

“Y-you’re the one who tastes good…” and smells good. Feels good. Fucking enrapturing.

“God, fuck. You’re going to drive me mad if you keep going like that…” the prince says with panted breaths.

“Mine…always mine…” Gunnar growls as a wave of possessiveness comes over him. Hauling Cinaed up with an arm wrapped around his chest and the hand on his love’s throat, the warrior nuzzles into his neck before bringing his lips to his for a ravaging kiss.

“I love driving you mad…” the Northman husks against Cinaed’s lips, his mate’s panted breaths stirring the fire inside of him.

Fuck, he’s squeezing me so tight…

Gunnar’s hand trails down Cinaed’s waist to take his bouncing cock, the tip dripping precum that he uses to stroke down his length. “So hard for me, baby…” the warrior purrs, loving how Cinaed’s cock pulses in his hand. The hitch in his husband’s breath going straight to Gunnar’s core.

“I love seeing you wrecked on my cock…the pleasure haze in your eyes, the way your body begs for everything I have to give you…it’s absolutely gorgeous. My little fox…” Gunnar nibbles on Cinaed’s bottom lip, holding him tight against him as his cock grinds deep.

When Gunnar’s hand traces down to his belly to grip his cock, the prince achingly arches back against him, his body shuddering as his breath hitches. The Northman strokes him so perfectly, in time with his thrusts and not gentle but also reverent, like he’s listening for every reaction. Just savagely enough to drive Cinaed crazy. As the Northman speaks so tenderly and fervently, the prince feels himself blush with rosy fire in his cheeks.

“I-I fucking love you,” Cinaed chokes out in a little purr. “I’m sorry for misbehaving. I won’t … fuck… do it again.”

The prince gives Gunnar another wet kiss, realizing he’s on the edge of a really strong peak. It’s been stronger since the conception of their pup, and Cinaed doesn’t pretend to know why. He just indulges in it.

“Just know, if you misbehave, you’ll be punished…” the warrior growls as his hips snap hard against his mate. He knows he’s asking for trouble by saying that. His love may misbehave on purpose, just to get this reaction out of him, but honestly he doesn’t mind. He loves his fiery little fox.

“Are you getting close for me?” Gunnar purrs in Cinaed’s ear before his lips trail down his neck. The warrior can already feel the tingling of his knot. Feel the base expanding as it starts catching on his husband’s rim. A couple more hard thrusts is all he can manage before it locks him inside. His hold on his mate tightening when he feels the shudder run through Cinaed.

Gunnar kisses Cinaed’s silvery scar, delighting in the moans that fall from his mouth. Just one little bite and he knows it will tip his mate over the edge. Cinaed’s cock is throbbing in his hand, and he can feel the trembling of his legs as he holds him against him. Gunnar’s eyes close for a moment letting the sensations envelope him. The wildflower and lavender scent, the feel of his skin against his, the way he’s gripping his cock so tight.

“Cum for me, Cinaed…let me feel you take what you need.” The warrior demands, drawing so close himself. His hand works the tip of his mate’s cock, giving him that extra friction to send him over the edge. His teeth rake against Cinaed's mark before sinking into the flesh.

“Yes, lover…” Cinaed says obediently, breathlessly. As if he wouldn’t love if Gunnar punished him. He cries out at his husband’s hard thrusts, hoping to the Gods that Uhtred didn’t hear it from afar. It was fucking loud. Typically, they shift positions a few times… but his lover mounted behind him like this drives the prince so feral with need. There’s no way he can keep it together for much longer as Gunnar’s cock practically fucks the cum out of him.

“Yes, I’m so fucking close… oh, god…” Cinaed whines, squeezing his eyes shut and furrowing his brows.

I’m going to cum so hard…

The Northman’s hold on his throat grows more relentless, and Cinaed tries not to scream as his lover’s cock starts to engorge and fill him up tighter. Gunnar’s hand moves expertly over the crown of his cock and makes his legs tremble, just before sinking his teeth into the silvery scar at the prince’s neck. Gunnar has the perfect awareness to slip his hand over the prince’s mouth as Cinaed simultaneously cums and takes his husband’s swollen knot inside him, releasing desperate, aching sounds that he denied he’d make earlier in the night.

“Me too, baby…so close.” Gunnar groans as he tries to keep it together just a little bit longer. His knot has fully engorged and the pressure around it has him reeling. As soon as Cinaed clenches down on him, he knows he’ll be done for. No holding back.

His hand flicks back and forth over the crown of Cinaed’s cock. His other hand tightens on his throat as his teeth sink into the tender flesh where his mark shimmers on his mate’s neck. Gunnar feels the moment Cinaed tightens against him, the clenching around his cock that drags a guttural groan from the warrior. Warmth fills his hand as Cinaed tips over the edge, and Gunnar cups his hand over the head of his cock to collect all of his spend. He moves his other hand over Cinaed’s mouth, muffling the aching sounds of his release that would otherwise reverberate against the cave walls.

Oh, and I wouldn’t have kept Uhtred up with moans and screams….

The warrior smiles to himself remembering Cinaed’s words of defiance. The pressure around his knot becomes too much, and Gunnar feels himself falling into that state of bliss only his mate can give him. Growls mixed with deep moans rip from his throat as he fills his mate with his seed. His abdomen quivers with the force of it, and his legs tremble as he holds on to Cinaed for dear life. White stars flash in his vision as his breaths turn ragged and heavy.

“Fuck, baby…Gods, you undo me.” He rasps as he clutches Cinaed tight to his body as his cock spasms inside him.

When the aftershocks finally pass, Gunnar gently lays Cinaed down on the furs, running his hand over his mate’s back in loving caresses. He licks the spend he gathered in his hand from his lover’s release, not wanting to waste a drop of his sweetness. Hovering over his husband, he tilts Cinaed’s face to his, giving him a ravishing kiss, letting him taste himself on his tongue.

“Such a good boy for me…” Gunnar husks in a deep gravely voice. “….you took your punishment so well.”

The warrior curls up behind his love, pulling Cinaed firmly against his chest as he nuzzles his nose into his neck. Breathing in their shared scents gives Gunnar a heady feeling as the afterglow of their release drums inside him.

“Well… you’re my alpha, so I’ll take whatever you give me.” The prince purrs, nuzzling their noses before closing his eyes and arching back into Gunnar’s touch. He hums in utter comfort and lust as his mate caresses him, the feeling of his knot inside him a still heavy reminder that he fucking loves. He takes the Northman’s hand and places it on his low belly.

“The flutters. Feel it?” Cinaed whispers in a love hazed tone. Gunnar won’t be able to feel it by touch alone, but by their pair bond surely.

“Your pup is tickling me.” The prince grins.

“I’ll give you anything you want, baby…all you have to do is ask.” Gunnar smirks at his love, before giving him a tender kiss. 

He loves how Cinaed arches into his touch as he caresses his back and sides and the soft hum he lets out. When his mate takes his hand and places it over his belly, a huge grin comes to the warrior’s face.

“Hmm…” Gunnar closes his eyes, concentrating on their pair bond, until he feels their little one moving. “Yes! I feel it…” the warrior softly chuckles. “…the flutters are getting stronger.”

“Our pup…” the Northman grins, delighted seeing the happiness in his mate’s eyes. “Do I need to scold them for tickling you?” Gunnar playfully raises his eyebrow. “Do you think their paws and tail are growing? Maybe their little ears…” he asks excitedly, his face beaming in happiness.

“How are you feeling, baby? Is there anything I can do for you to make you more comfortable?” Gunnar softly asks as he lovingly caresses his mate’s belly.

“Yes. Little paws and ears and… everything.” Cinaed purrs with a beaming smile.

“Oh baby, I feel so good now… earlier I was very nauseous and a little grumpy but I’m feeling better. I think you’ll have to be patient with me these next several weeks…”

Nuzzling their noses together again, the prince gives Gunnar another deep kiss before easing his whole weight back against him.

“Mm, actually… I’m freezing now.” Cinaed says, grabbing a fur and purring louder when Gunnar spreads it out over him. “Oh, and keep your hand there,” he says, laying his own hand over the Northman’s on his belly.

“They’ll know you’re watching them as they tickle me to death.” He snickers.

“I’ll be patient, baby. Just let me know when you’re not feeling well and I’ll do anything I can to alleviate your discomfort. I love you so much, and I want you to be happy and comfortable while you are giving us this amazing gift.” Gunnar purrs and he looks lovingly into Cinaed’s eyes.

“It is getting a little chill in here…” Gunnar smiles as he spreads the fur Cinaed grabbed over them. “…but I’ll keep you warm.”

When Cinaed places his hand over his on his belly, Gunnar feels his heart flutter. “I wouldn’t dream of moving it…” he softly reassures. It comes so naturally to him, wanting to touch the place Cinaed is carrying their pup. Almost like he is protecting something precious, which it very much is. His wolf howls in his chest wanting to guard their offspring.

Gunnar lets out a deep rumble of laughter, his heart giddy with joy when his mate says their pup is going to tickle him to death. Gods, it still seems unimaginable, his mate carrying his pup. But it’s real. He has felt it through the pair bond, the new life they created.

“Yes. I’ll be watching them. And when my knot goes down, I’ll share words with them. Remind them to let their faðir get some rest.” The warrior chuckles as he nuzzles into Cinaed cheek, scenting him before he peppers his cheek with kisses. “They can probably feel the warmth of my hand through your belly.”

“Do you want to rest for a little while and then shift when my knot releases us?” Gunnar softly asks as he snuggles Cinaed closer to him, tangling his legs with his.

For some reason, Gunnar’s words make the Prince want to cry. Not of sadness, but of sheer radiating happiness.

“So tender to me. I love you too…” Cinaed purrs, closing his eyes as his mate nuzzles into him under the fur. He grins when Gunnar bellows laughter, probably at the dramatic part of his statement. When the Northman scents him and leaves kisses on his cheek, the prince snickers and pinches Gunnar’s thigh with his hand under the furs.

“They can definitely feel you. This is only the second time the flutters have happened, and both have been when I’m by your side. Not that I stray far…” the prince grins again.

“Yes, I need to shift so badly. Until then…”

The prince rests back against his lover, tilting his head to look up at him. “… you’ve never told me of your family. Your father, and mother. Siblings. Will you tell me about them?” Cinaed purrs.

“They know when their sire is near…and they want to make their presence known.” Gunnar beams at his mate. He feels the connection between him and Cinaed getting stronger with each passing day, and now it’s extending to their little bean.

“We’ll shift, baby…run off some of the pent up energy stirring inside us.” Gunnar agrees as he kisses Cinaed’s curls. He has found himself needing to shift at least once a day, otherwise his wolf starts pacing inside him, clawing at his chest.

Gunnar feels warm spread through him as Cinaed rests against his chest. When he tilts his head up to him, with those gorgeous amber eyes looking deep into his, the warrior feels his heart melt. Gunnar wraps his arms snug around his husband.

“I haven’t, have I…” Gunnar muses. Honestly he hasn’t thought of his parents in a long time. It seems like a lifetime ago since they passed. “My father was an explorer and a warrior, much like I became at Ragnar’s side. My mother was a gentle soul. Revna often reminds me of her with her tenderness and care for others. They both passed when I was just a boy…eleven years old. During a raid of our village by a neighboring Jarl. Ragnar’s family took me in and raised me alongside Ragnar and Rollo.”

The prince feels the need to shift too, badly. Something about this recent conception has him nearly suffering to shift at least once a day, for some reason. Perhaps the energy of it is soothing to his pup, or it helps in its growth. The prince has no idea. Cinaed was inclined to ask about Gunnar’s parents since they themselves will soon be parents as well. They usually have talks like this late at night, wrapped in each other’s arms… and although Gunnar has mentioned much, he never really mentioned them.

As Cinaed closes his eyes and listens to Gunnar’s musing about his upbringing, he gets a punch straight in the chest and stomach at his words. Fuck, if only he could have known. To promote any sort of pain for his lover is unbearable.

“Baby… I’m so sorry. That sounds so painful. They didn’t… deserve that,” Cinaed says softly and shakes his head.

“You were so young. Gods, my heart hurts for you.”

“Ragnar and I were playing in the forest when the raid happened. Even though we were only boys, we did our best to protect the women and children that fled into the trees, with small axes and knives. Sigurd, Ragnar’s father, adopted me and welcomed me into his family. That is why Ragnar and I became so close. Like brothers.” Gunnar looks lovingly into his mate’s eyes, before brushing a stray strand of hair from his face.

“I don’t know if my father knew there was a wolf inside of him, that it had passed down from his father. He never spoke of it, and I never saw him shift.” Gunnar muses as he tries to think back to any time that his father’s wolf may have appeared, but he can’t remember ever seeing it. Maybe he repressed it, much like Finan does with his fae magic. Maybe it stayed dormant in him.

A tender smile comes to Gunnar’s face when his mate says his heart hurts for him. “Baby, it’s alright. I don’t mind you asking about them. It’s good to remember those we have lost. It keeps their memories alive. In a sense, I had two fathers, Tjörvi and Sigurd. And Ragnar’s mother always treated me with kindness and caring. After awhile I think she considered me like blood, like her true son.

…maybe that was why Rollo was so jealous of me.” Gunnar never really thought of that before, but maybe that’s why Rollo took him captive. Tried to break him so that he would be loyal to him, because he felt Gunnar had stolen something from him.

Maybe that’s how Asgeir feels about me. I had something he didn’t get to experience. The love of our father.

It has taken many years for Gunnar to come to terms with the idea that his father was unfaithful to his mother. Siring a son with another woman on one of his travels to the northwest of Norway. In a ship makers village. Making promises to her he could not or would not keep. And leaving behind a son that would never know him.

“… it’s good to honor their memory. Still… you’ve had a life of such pain, and that ends where you and I meet. Right here. Our family...” He says reverently, giving Gunnar a soft, slow kiss as his hand interlaces the fingers of the one holding his belly.

“… you know that you’re going to be so happy, right?” Cinaed grins at him. Gods, what a silly question. The Northman already beams every time they are together, and so does the prince. “I’ll make you so happy. I told you that months ago and I meant it.”

Leaning up to scent his cheek, the prince’s breath hitches when Gunnar rolls his hips into him, still feeling him deep and dominant inside him. They get lost in another kiss, and when they pull away, Cinaed sees something cross Gunnar’s icy blue eyes. He takes his cheek, caressing it with his thumb.

“Is there more?” He asks softly, wondering.

“I know you meant it, baby…and you have. Everything you have given me, your love, our pups, and our home, is more than I could have ever imagined. I feel like I can’t stop smiling when I’m with you, because you make me so happy.” Even now, Gunnar can’t wipe the smile off his face. It’s almost like it’s engrained in him, especially when he is near his love.

Cinaed’s scent envelopes him as his mate scents his cheek. Gods, he loves it when he does that, loves the flood of wildflowers and lavender that permeate around them. Gunnar can’t help himself when he rolls his hips against Cinaed, feeling himself locked deep and tight inside his mate. His knot still pulsing from the connection. He takes his husband in another passionate kiss, deep and full of hunger. He can’t get enough of him and the spell his mate puts over him. When they pull away, his earlier thoughts flash through his mind about his brother. The brother he has yet to claim.

When Cinaed asks him if there is more, Gunnar lets out a soft sigh. His mate can read him so well, can sense when something is troubling him.

“I supposedly have a brother…” Gunnar almost whispers. It’s the first time he has given voice to the notion. He sees the curious look in his mate’s eyes, so he continues, knowing that he can feel safe in sharing this with him.

“When I was in my mid twenties, a young man sought me out. A teenager by all accounts. He claimed that we shared a father. That we were brothers. But I didn’t believe him, because that would have meant my father was unfaithful to my mother. The thought of it crushed me. My father, sleeping with another woman when he was gone for weeks at a time.

I vehemently denied his claim. Didn’t want to see what was so plainly right before me. Piercing blue eyes, dark hair, the same chiseled jaw…” Gunnar softly shakes his head. “It was like looking at a younger version of my father. The evidence of his betrayal to my mother.”

“The young man came looking for a brother and for a pendant belonging to his father. One that his mother had told him was promised to him. A carved bone pendant of Njord’s ship, that Tjörvi wore during voyages. The pendant that I kept in my pocket to keep him close. In my heart, I knew the only way that young man would have known about the pendant was if it was true. My father spent time with his mother…intimately.”

“I was angry…I was livid.” Gunnar can still feel the emotions of that day racing through him. “I told him he has no brother. We fought…he split my lip, and I laid him on the ground. He still wouldn’t take back his claim, and for one  brief moment I could see my father so clearly in him.”

“I stormed off…but not before throwing the pendant in the dirt at his feet. I told him to take it, and do not return. He told me I could have kept it, and I threw back in his face that he said it was his.” Gunnar lets out a mirthless chuckle, “He had the stones to say, ‘No. I said I wanted something that belonged to our father. I wanted you to give it to me like a brother.’. As if…” Gunnar shakes his head.

“Now that I’m older, and after everything I’ve been through, I can’t help but regret that moment of turning him away. I have no idea where he is or if he’s even still alive…it haunts me.” Gunnar softly says, the regret shining in his eyes.

“And now…knowing what I am, I can’t help but wonder if he’s the same. If he has had to face being a werewolf all alone with no one to guide or help him…without his brother.”

“Now that you say that… he had to have been,” Cinaed says. “I mean, how could you not be related?”

Damn.

“I’m so sorry to hear that. It would have been nice for you to have a brother, one that you loved. But… it’s not always what it’s cracked up to be.”The prince smirks, thinking of Ronan, and then another he’s never mentioned before.

“I actually have an estranged brother too, but he’s um… a bastard. Younger than me. And you know… he’s not even a bastard, he’s a love child between my mother and some knight or something.” Cinaed furrows his brows and shakes his head.

“He was raised by my mother’s father, and is heir to her original homeland. And get this, baby… they’re our fucking rivals. Or were.”

Cinaed can see the shock in Gunnar’s eyes, probably because he knows his mother so well. He smiles and talks slowly, just enjoying speaking to him about it and hearing about his family history too.

“When Finan married my mother it was for an alliance between the Kingdoms, and it’s lasted thus far.

Anyway, he’s a nice kid… to me, anyway. But otherwise he is so solemn. So guarded. A perfect heir to the throne… because he doesn’t have the rebellious nature me or Ronan have. Mum loves him… from afar, mostly.”

“Yeah, it would have been nice to have a brother, if I would have just taken my head out of my arse…” Gunnar shakes his head at himself as a little smirk curls his lips.

“Hey, Ronan isn’t too bad…” the warrior can see what his mate is thinking by the look in his eyes as he lets out a soft chuckle. “…as long as he keeps the bow and arrow at home, and stops eavesdropping on other peoples conversations and intimate moments…Gods, when you say it like that, it really isn’t all that it’s cracked up to be.” Gunnar starts laughing.

When Cinaed mentions that he has a half-brother, Gunnar’s eyes widen in surprise. The bits and pieces he has heard about Ethne and Finan’s estrangement, he honestly can blame her for finding her own lover. Lagertha basically did the same to Ragnar, after he brought home another woman. Although Lagertha’s new husband was an arse, and he was proud of her for killing him.

“Your rivals?” Gunnar’s eyes widen again in shock as a little smile curls his lips. He loves listening to Cinaed talk and tell him stories about his homeland and family.

“That’s good that he’s nice to you and you two get along. What about Ronan? Does he have anything to do with your younger brother?” Gunnar has noticed that Ronan seems to keep his distance from Ethne, and he has openly claimed Revna as his mother.

“Your mother is a sweet woman, and I can see in her eyes how much she loves her children. Even the stubborn one…” Gunnar lets out a soft chuckle. 

“…I’m sure she’ll be a wonderful grandmother as well.” Gunnar beams as he gives his mate a kiss on the nose. His heart melting when Cinaed’s amber eyes look into his.

“All of us are perilous in our youths, aren’t we?” Cinaed says, giving the Northman a teasing gaze to which Gunnar pinches his side, as if he completely read his mind about still being young.

“Exactly. Ronan is insufferable,” Cinaed chuckles, not denying it one bit. His older brother is very lovable but also pretty maddening.

“And yes, we are technically rivals. But… I don’t know. He’s young, and he’s actually really sweet. I hope the title doesn’t go to his head…” the prince muses.

“Well… no, actually. Ronan has nothing to do with him, and I don’t think they’ve ever spoke two words to each other. Ronan and my mother just… don’t get along. He blames her for sending my father away. For letting it happen. And then… for having that love child, even though she never once neglected us for it. He’s hard on her, and… it’s irreparable. He just loves Finan too much. Perhaps one day, they’ll make peace, but...” Cinaed sighs.

“You aren’t the only one with some painful dynamics… I hope that’s a comfort, darling.” He says, nuzzling his nose into Gunnar’s cheek.

“Yeah. She’ll be great, hm? All of our family will be.” Cinaed says, giving the Northman a tender little gaze.

Even when he’s being a naughty boy…Gunnar smirks, remembering Cinaed’s attitude earlier.

“Yes, our family will be great. Our children will know the love of two parents that adore them, of their sister, their uncle, and grandparents. They will have everything we didn’t have when we were little. I will make sure of that.” Gunnar vows solemnly. His family is his whole world.

The Northman feels the moment his knot finally releases them, and he lets out a soft groan. Gods, he just wants to stay buried inside of his love all night. But, he did promise Cinaed a shift and a run. A chance to explore around the waterfall and surrounding forest. Besides, he loves how much stronger the lavender scent is when his mate is in his fox form. It make him want to tackle him to the ground and nuzzle his belly while his little fox purrs in that comforting sound.

Gunnar rolls his hips against his husband one last time before reluctantly withdrawing his softening cock. The little sound of disappointment Cinaed lets out make him smile, knowing that he isn’t the only one that hates when they separate.

“Are you ready to shift, baby? We can explore around the waterfall if you like…just stay close to me, since we are in unfamiliar territory.” Gunnar gives Cinaed a deep kiss, caressing his mate’s belly again before helping him up. At least they don’t have to remove their clothes since they have already done that part.

“Yes. I’ll stay close to you…” the prince purrs against Gunnar’s lips as they kiss. The Northman helps him up, and Cinaed begs a little distance as he shifts into his fox form. It’s completely cathartic… exactly what he needed, but he feels a little wild for some reason. He instantly sprints into a run, inwardly grinning as his husband stays on his heels. He stops by the waterfall and teases Gunnar with a few jumping motions, stepping on the wolf’s paws, before he nuzzles against him and drags his sleek body across the wolf.

So handsome! The prince chimes out. He loves seeing his husband in his wolf form. It’s as if the fox is as attracted as Cinaed is to Gunnar. The prince moves toward the waterfall, taking a clumsy drink of the water before sneezing.

A soft sound escapes Gunnar’s throat as his mate nuzzles into him. Something between a growl and a purr. He loves when Cinaed drags his sleek body across his, especially since his scent is so much stronger. The wolf’s eyes linger on his mate’s fluffy bottom and tail. It doesn’t matter if Cinaed is human or fox, he loves staring at his arse. His sweet scent tantalizing Gunnar’s senses.

…and you are absolutely gorgeous. Especially with the moon reflecting on your beautiful red fur.

Gods, don’t get him started on Cinaed’s perfect little nose, and his adorable ears. Gunnar lets out a huff of breath trying to calm the rising heat in his body. He chuckles inwardly when Cinaed sneezes after trying to take a drink from the waterfall. It took him a long time to learn the lesson on how to drink in his wolf form. It’s not as easy as it looks.

Do you want to go for a run through the meadow? I’m sure Uhtred, Hati and Luca are asleep by now.

When Cinaed nips at his tail then takes off at a run, Gunnar’s wolf grins before giving chase. It feels good to stretch his legs and run. Burn off some of this energy coiled inside him. He takes in the different scents around them as they run, his ears perked out listening for threats. He can smell deer and rabbits close by and it’s so tempting to hunt one down, his prey instincts running high, but he tampers it down and focuses on his mate.

When Cinaed gets winded from their little run, and rolls in the grass, Gunnar hovers over him looking down into his glowing amber eyes. The wolf licks his mate’s snout, chuckling when he lets out another adorable sneeze. Crouching down, Gunnar nuzzles his mate’s belly, breathing heavily of the lavender scent. 

@cinaedofulaid

Gunnar is such a lover with his words, bringing a warmth to the prince’s belly to be so coveted and complimented so beautifully. It makes him so aroused when he does that. He’s so sweet to him, and he makes the Prince truly feel gorgeous. And of course he wants to take a run through the meadow.

Yes yes!

Cinaed playfully nips at Gunnar’s tail, sending them into a little playful frenzy. The prince runs and runs, feeling like he could go on forever, especially when his mate is chasing him. He lets out a little whiny fox sound and turns the tables on his lover, chasing him, until he feels absolutely winded. He lays down in the grass and rolls around, liking the scent of the wildflowers.

Oof.

The tall black wolf hovers over him, licking his snout and making Cinaed sneeze. He looks like a predator this way, but the prince couldn’t possibly feel any safer. His attention is brought down to his belly when Gunnar nuzzles into it, and he would admit that it does feel a little heavier, especially in this position. It’s madness to think there’s a pup growing in there.

As Gunnar nuzzles his belly with his nose, the prince’s purrs turn audibly loud and he starts panting a little. Something about it just stirs his body, and it recognizes that Gunnar is his mate. His whiskers twitch a little and he leans up to nibble on Gunnar’s ear.

Does it feel different when you are in your fox form?

Gunnar is curious if Cinaed can feel their pup’s presence stronger. If the flutters are more noticeable. He rests his chin on his mate’s belly as his icy blue eyes take in his little fox’s glowing amber ones. He can almost feel a slight roundness that wasn’t there before, a firmness where the vessel cocoons their little one. A month and a half to go, maybe less. All he knows is that he’s excited to meet their little bean.

You’re so perfect, Cinaed…you are everything to me. Hjarta mitt, sál mín.

The crescent moon rises higher in the darkened sky casting faint light over the meadow beside the waterfall. Part of him wants to stay right here, wrapped around his little fox, but Gunnar knows they have a big day tomorrow and should probably get some rest. As soon as they finish helping Uhtred they will return home, to the comfort of their own cottage and forest.

Are you ready to head back to the cave? I need to hold my husband… 

The black wolf lets out a little whine. He’s not sure what has come over him, other than an insatiable need to hold his love close. To snuggle against him as their arms and legs are tangled around each other. Gunnar licks his mate’s belly as he take one more deep sniff of the scent radiating from him, chuckling inwardly when his mate gives him a little huff.

On his back, the heaviness is definitely there. Like the pup is bigger. Almost even a little painful until he shifts his position a bit.

You’re the perfect one. I can tell you’re going to spoil me. Tonight and every night…

Cinaed shifts a little on his back, closing his eyes as his fluffy tail wraps around Gunnar a little. He opens them and sees icy blue shining back at him with a loving, tender gaze.

Yes, very ready. Cinaed echoes as Gunnar nuzzles into his belly. He huffs as the wolf’s tongue darts out, knowing it’s going to get his slobber all over his fur… but he supposes he doesn’t mind too much. He bites Gunnar’s ear and rolls back onto his feet, shaking off a little and stretching like a cat. As they start on their way, Cinaed rubs his body along Gunnar’s again and stays very close, their steps in rhythm with one another.

He’s not really planning on riding out to the border, but he can’t tell Finan the real reason for his absence. At least not yet. Not until he finishes preparing his love’s surprise, which he is desperately hoping to have ready in time for their anniversary. One year ago he married his best-friend. The one who has held his heart since the first time he laid eyes on him on the Trader, and he wants to make this anniversary special. To make up for cutting their honeymoon short, and hurting his husband in the worse possible way.

“I promise, I’ll be careful…I’ll even take some men with me.” Uhtred gives his Irishman his best puppy dog eyes, knowing Finan can’t resist them.

“I’ll make it up to you when I return…” Uhtred purrs with a seductive look in his eyes and a playful smirk.

When Finan huffs out a sigh of resignation, Uhtred can’t help but smile. He pulls Finan into a heated kiss, already imagining the special night he has planned for them. “Watch over Lachlan for me?” Uhtred softly asks, with tenderness in his voice.

When Finan nods yes, the Dane breathes a sigh of relief. He only trusts Elle, Finan and Revna to watch over his little boy. “Thank you, baby. I love you so much.” Uhtred places another gentle kiss on Finan’s lips, feeling his Irishman’s hesitation in letting him go. Hel, he’s hesitant to let him go too. The temptation to drag him back into their chambers is so strong, but he has to get this done.

“Give the girls my love, and apologize to Tora for me for taking her friend.” Uhtred smirks. Hati has become more her companion than his, but he likes the extra protection the wolf offers him especially when he’s away from home.

Before he loses his resolve, Uhtred places another kiss on Finan’s palm before striding out of the Hall, calling for Hati to follow on his way out. He had asked the guardsmen to prepare Tintreg for him, and his stallion is already stomping his feet eager for the ride. Another horse is loaded with supplies he will need to finish his project.

Clicking at Tintreg, Uhtred leads the horse to the village, or rather the outskirts. He had asked Cinaed the night of the celebration for their wedding if he could steal his husband for a day or two to help him with his project. He hopes that is still alright. As he nears the cottage set off in the woods, a smile comes to his face. The lovebirds have had a week to enjoy their honeymoon, hopefully they are ready to venture out.

Dismounting his horse, Uhtred walks to the door and knocks. He stands there a little nervously. Gunnar is an imposing man, even to him, and he wouldn’t want to get on the Northman’s bad side. Uhtred’s brows furrow as he waits with Hati beside him.

Is that growling I hear…

@askuhtredragnarson

“Yeah, you better make it up to me. And you better be careful.” The Irishman pouts.

Why isn’t he asking me to go with him?

I’m always at your side…

Despite the past year being much more homemaking than Finan has ever been used to, he doesn’t necessarily miss too much of the strife they’ve been through in recent years. Traveling with Uhtred, though… he misses it. Being on the road, camping by rivers, hunting with his Lord and his brothers. To live in Bebbanburg is an actual dream come true, but sometimes the Irishman yearns for some of the happenings not so long ago. Stolen glances and touches included, not limited to actually jumping each other’s bones in the forest after that one lustful night.

Finan is suspicious. But perhaps Uhtred just wants some time on his own. With all the raucous of their household, that’s reasonable. Right?

The Irishman nods about Lachlan, and he nods about the girls. Of course he’d make sure everything would stay in order. Even if his sanity is walking out the door.

“Goodbye, husband. Return to me.” Finan drawls in a loving voice with sparkling dark eyes.

“If you bring someone else home, you know that I’ll kill them.” He smiles when Uhtred laughs at that.

***

As they lay upon the furs on the floor by the hearth, it’s a miracle that the lovers are clothed. In this moment they are, just taking a cat nap together on the floor with Luca.

“Hey,” Cinaed says in a teasing warning when Gunnar growls at the knock at the door. Then Luca barks, loudly.

“Hey!” The prince scolds them. It’s a familiar smell. It’s Uhtred, definitely. Cinaed’s newest senses don’t allow him to forget anything these days. He stands and swings the door open despite Gunnar’s growls.

“Lord Uhtred, hello.” The prince says with a smile. “What brings you all the way out here?”

Shit, did I already piss him off…

Uhtred clears his throat then returns his smile to Cinaed. The young man is absolutely glowing. Marriage suits him. “So, uh…remember when I asked if I could steal your husband away for a couple of days to help me finish a surprise for your father? I was kind of hoping it could be now. Our anniversary is only a few days away and the only way it’ll be ready in time is if I have a little help.”

When Gunnar approaches the door, he quirks an eyebrow at his husband, an almost playful look in his eyes despite the firmness of his features. Uhtred takes it as if maybe Cinaed hasn’t had a chance to mention it to the big Northman. He can’t blame him, he’s sure their focus has been entirely on each other since their wedding.

“Gunnar.” Uhtred gives the warrior a nod in greeting. “As I was saying…I was hoping you could come with me for a couple days and help me finish the surprise I’ve been working on for Finan. I’ve been working on it for the last few months and it’s so close to being done. I just need to have it completed by Lughnasadh.”

Uhtred watches as Gunnar protectively takes his husband’s hand as he looks first in Cinaed’s eyes and then his. “I would be happy to come help, but I won’t leave my husband behind. I only go if he goes too.” There is a little bit of a challenge in the Northman’s eyes, along with something else the Dane isn’t quite sure of. Maybe protectiveness, like he is guarding something precious.

“Fair enough…the more the merrier. Bring him, and your pup.” Uhtred’s smile turns into a smirk as he nods at Gunnar. “I trust both of you can keep a secret?” Uhtred’s not sure why he even asks that. There is so much mystery surrounding the couple. Things he has yet to learn about them.

“It’s a few hours ride to the spot. I have food and supplies, and I figured we could spent the night there. It’s a special place I took Finan to one time.” Uhtred explains.

…months? What could Uhtred possibly have been working on for months? Cinaed thinks. He did sort of offer his husband’s help without him knowing, but the little smirk the Northman gives him tells him it’ll be okay. Or that he’ll be punished for it later. Or both.

“Don’t worry, darling. I’ll come. Just let me pack a few things…” Cinaed grins, squeezing Gunnar’s hand before letting him go and whistling for Luca.

“Uhtred, come on in.” The prince says, swinging their door open wider for the Dane.

I trust both of you can keep a secret?

Cinaed gives Gunnar a playful smile before looking back at Uhtred. “Oh, we are very, very good at it…” he almost snickers.

“I’ll pack us some food as well. Luca is um…” the prince looks down at their pup. Just don’t shift in front of Uhtred, stinker. Instead of finishing his sentence, the prince just moves to grab a pack and fill it with a few of their non-negotiables and some changes of clothes. Then, he heads to the kitchen to pack a few more supplies.

“Few hours ride?” Cinaed asks. “So what is this place to you? Tell us the story.” The prince smiles.

Uhtred is shaken from his musing when Cinaed asks about the special place he’s taking them to. “Oh, uh…it’s a special place I found as a child. When Bebbanburg was my home, before I lost it to my uncle. My father was a cruel man, and I think he only ever saw me as a nuisance. His attention was always focused on my older brother, the heir of Bebbanburg. I used to go out, deep into the forest, to get away from him. Play and explore for days before I would return home. He barely noticed my absence.

One day I found this special place. A small valley meadow surrounded by hills and large rocks. There is a hidden path to it, so I doubt anyone knows about it. A gorgeous waterfall is there and a crystal clear pool of water where I would splash and play for hours. Behind the waterfall is a small cave where I would sleep. It’s beautiful, almost like a fairytale…” Uhtred smiles wistfully as he thinks about his favorite place. It feels almost magical, and maybe that’s why he was so drawn to it.

After Cinaed gathers the supplies, they head outside where the horses and Hati are waiting. Uhtred watches as Gunnar pulls his brown stallion out of the stable with and another almost white horse. Uhtred watches curiously as Hati tucks his tail when Gunnar gets near, giving the warrior obedient eyes.

“Do you want to ride with me, baby?” Gunnar asks his husband as Cinaed clutches Luca to his chest. The Dane can see in the warrior’s eyes that he wants him to, and a soft smile comes to Uhtred’s face. You wouldn’t think it looking at Gunnar, cause he’s such a formidable warrior, but he has such tenderness when he looks into his husband’s eyes. It reminds Uhtred of him and Finan.

The Dane waits to tell the rest of the story about the first time he took Finan there, until they are on the road.

“I think we have everything we need.” The prince softly muses, following the two men outside. He carries Luca and whispers a few sweet words to Hati, if only to calm him a little in Gunnar’s presence… so that Uhtred hopefully won’t notice.

“Yes, please…” The prince purrs to his husband, taking Gunnar’s hand and swiftly mounting up once the packs are secured. He can’t really imagine being two feet or more from Gunnar ever again. Not before, and definitely not after they felt the fluttering of their pup in his belly.

“So, this place is already naturally beautiful…” Cinaed muses to Uhtred as they get on the road.

“… what exactly has taken you months, and now more effort to achieve, Lord?”

Honestly, he just wants to see the prince and Northman’s reaction, without spoiling the surprise. Uhtred and Gunnar’s horses ride side by side, with the pack horses following. The Dane smiles when Luca falls asleep in Cinaed’s arms, the prince whispering tender words in the pup’s ears. You would think the pup is their child with how doting they are to him, and perhaps he is, like a child to them.

“So, this place is special to you and Finan?” Gunnar softly asks as he shares a glance with the Dane. His arm is tenderly wrapped around Cinaed’s waist, fingers splayed on the prince’s stomach.

A bittersweet smile comes to the Dane’s face, remembering the events leading up to him taking his husband to the waterfall. “It was my attempt to show my husband how special he is to me…after almost losing him.”

“Losing him? Finan looks at you as if you’re the only person in the room.” Gunnar gives the Dane a confused look.

“I hurt him…in the worst possible way.” Uhtred shakes his head letting out a soft sigh. “I should have postponed our march to Bebbanburg after our wedding, given us more time as newlyweds. Enjoyed our honeymoon a little bit longer…

…but I was anxious to give him and our family a home. To give them Bebbanburg where they would all be safe.” Uhtred shares a glance with Gunnar and Cinaed, regret heavy in his eyes.

“I almost died from that battle, and I ripped out my husband’s heart in the process. If it wouldn’t have been for Revna saving me…” Uhtred shakes his head again. The thought of the heartbreak his husband felt, not knowing if he was going to live or die, kills him inside. They were supposed to be celebrating their victory after defeating Wihtgar, celebrating their new home. Instead, his husband kept vigil over him, hoping and praying he would wake up.

“After I woke up, all I wanted was to be close to my husband. To feel him…to…” touch him. Uhtred trails off as mistiness comes to his eyes and he quickly blinks it away. “I didn’t understand the pain Finan was in, seeing me like that. The fear he felt almost losing me. I said some hurtful things. I lashed out at him, because every time I tried to pull him close he begged distanced from me.

Finan was so upset with me…and rightfully so, he ordered the guardsmen to pack up his and Revna’s belongings. Said they were going to return to Ulaid, and leave me behind. Revna talked some sense into me, helped me to understand the pain Finan was in. I sought out my husband to make things right.” 

Uhtred lets out a soft chuckle. “He did not make it easy on me, but thankfully he accepted my apology. I told him I wanted to take him away. To someplace special to make it up to him. So I took him to my waterfall, and we spent a few days there just reconnecting. Reminding each other how much we love one another.”

Cinaed listens intently to Uhtred’s words, his heart empathizing instantly. To be quite honest, he doesn’t understand the polyamory. He’d rather die than see Gunnar’s hands on another. And if another put their hand on him, he’d sever it from their arm with his sword. Regardless, for Finan and Uhtred, it just seems to… work for them. The free love. And there’s nothing wrong with that, he supposes, because they are dedicated to each other within their little circle. When Uhtred mentions almost losing his life and the pain his father suffered for it, the prince feels Gunnar’s hold tighten around him, no doubt reliving the pain he himself felt when Cinaed fell.

“It was like a second honeymoon,” the prince muses with a beaming smile.

Gods, Finan is so stubborn. He literally almost left him?

“My father is really pig headed it seems. But… perhaps he just wanted to see you fight for him.” Cinaed smirks at Uhtred.

“You too seem to have a very special relationship. Best friends? I can see how that would quickly turn fervent, in the right circumstances.”

The Dane chuckles at Cinaed’s pig headed comment about his father, a smirk curling his lips. “It doesn’t help that I’m sometimes a bastard. It wasn’t the first argument we’ve had, but hopefully it was the last. Revna helps both of us see the fault in our ways when we are both being stubborn. She seems to be the only one that can talk sense into us.”

“I know it seems a bit unorthodox…Revna and I sharing Finan.” Uhtred shares a look with the Northman, understanding if he is not keen on the idea of his daughter’s husband being with another. “…but it works between us. I have the upmost respect for your daughter, she is a beautiful woman with a loving soul. We both balance Finan in different ways. I give him strength and she gives him tenderness and understanding. We both love him with all our hearts, and I would protect her with my life just as I would Finan. We are a family.”

Gunnar gives the Dane a nod. He doesn’t seem to look down on him, and Uhtred appreciates that. The Northman may not fully understand, Hel most people don’t, but Uhtred wouldn’t trade it for the world.

“Yes, best friends. We met on the Trader, when I was sold into slavery. I’m sure you’ve heard the stories of how your father ended up there.” Uhtred shares a knowing look with Cinaed. He’s sure everyone in Ulaid knows the story of the dark prince. “I was betrayed by someone I considered a friend, me and one of my men. If it hadn’t been for Finan, I don’t think I would have made it off that ship alive. He was my rock, the one who gave me strength. But it would be over a decade later before we shared our true feelings for one another.”

As they draw near the secret meadow, Uhtred leads Gunnar and Cinaed to a hidden path between two boulders. The trail is narrow and winding, but before too long they come out on the other side. A lush green meadow before them with the sound of rushing water from the waterfall. Uhtred smiles when the one room cabin he has been building comes into view. It’s nestled in-between some large trees, close to the pool of water from the waterfall. The main part left to finish is the roof, the rest of the cabin has been framed and boards put up for walls. A medium sized window on the front next to the door, and another window on the side facing the waterfall.

Uhtred nods towards his creation, proud of the work he has finished so far. “The roof needs completed, and finishing touches inside to make it feel cozy. Think your father will like it?” Uhtred looks at Cinaed with a playful smirk on his face.

“We would never dream of judging your situation, especially when it appears so healthy and full of love.” Cinaed assures Uhtred. He really likes him. He likes all of them, regardless of not being quite comfortable at the fortress yet.

“I’ve heard the stories. I was young, but… I was there.” Cinaed says, offering a placating smile. It’s not a time he likes to look back on. The ripple effect of those events lasted in Ulaid for years.

“… a decade?!” Cinaed repeats incredulously. How?! The prince can’t imagine that.

The prince’s words are quickly stifled when the cottage Uhtred has been building comes into view, nestled close to the beautiful waterfall and a pool of the clearest waters. It’s perfect. Serenity at its finest.

“Uhtred… of course,” Cinaed answers him when he asks if his father will like it. What’s better than a cottage far from anyone else to spend some fervent time with the person who holds your heart? The prince can definitely relate.

“He’ll love it!”

“Good…I’m glad to hear it. I want it to be special for Finan. A place all our own that we can escape to when we need some alone time.” Uhtred has been wanting to give this to Finan for a long time. Sure they have their chambers in the fortress where they can spend time together, but sometimes they both just need to get back to their roots. To have a chance to decompress from the chaos of being Lords of Bebbanburg. Not to mention the fond memories of them and the forest.

As they near the cottage, Uhtred points at a wagon off to the side. “Furniture and household furnishing are in the wagon. Lots of furs, since Finan always complains that he’s freezing.” Uhtred chuckles. “The rest of the lumber for the roof is behind the wagon, and some bales of thatch to keep the roof from leaking. We should have everything we need to finish it.”

“So, I was thinking Gunnar and I could work on finishing the roof, if you want to start unpacking the supplies for inside?” Uhtred looks at Cinaed. He’s sure the prince will want to keep a close eye on the pup to make sure he stays out of the way so he doesn’t get hurt.

Gunnar helps Cinaed and Luca down from the horse. Their pup suddenly full of energy after his long nap. As soon as Cinaed sets him down on the ground, Luca starts chasing a butterfly, barking at it as he tries to catch it.

Before Cinaed heads to the wagon to see what’s inside, Gunnar grabs his hand and pulls him back towards him. “Leave the heavy furniture and boxes for me and Uhtred to carry in…okay? I don’t want you to get hurt.” Gunnar gives his husband a stern but tender look as his eyes trail down to his stomach then back to the prince’s eyes in some unspoken communication. Uhtred gives the two a curious look, wondering what that is all about.

The Dane turns away when he sees Gunnar cup Cinaed’s cheek and pull him into a tender kiss, trying to be respectful and give the lover’s some privacy. Hati follows little Luca around, almost like a mother hen, and Uhtred can’t help but chuckle. At least Cinaed and Gunnar will have another set of eyes watching over their pup.

Uhtred grabs some work gloves from his saddle bags while Cinaed and Gunnar finish their moment together. When the Northman approaches him, Uhtred smiles. “Ready to get started?” To which Gunnar nods.

“Sure, Lord.” The prince says with an unaffected tone despite his inner thoughts. He chuckles when his pup instantly bolts from his arms, then his worrisome husband pulls him close and gives him those tender eyes. Cinaed tilts his head at him as he speaks in that low, gravelly voice.

Wait… does that mean Uhtred knows? Is that why he suggested I stay off the roof? Fuck.

“Baby… I’ll be fine. I promise. It’s so early on, right? And my body is resilient. Very much so. Yeah?” Cinaed purrs, giving Gunnar a tender little kiss as the Northman cups his cheek. There’s no way the Dane knows. Perhaps he just… senses something.

“Better get cracking…” Cinaed grins teasingly as he pulls away. “Roof won’t finish itself!”

As the prince moves for some of the inner workings of the cottage, he ties his hair back and decides to just remove his tunic. The summer sun is quite warm, and hell, he might even take a dip while the oh so strong men work.

“I love both of you…” Gunnar cups Cinaed cheek as he leans in to give his mate a tender kiss, his thumb softly caressing his skin. “…with every breath.”

A little smirk curls Gunnar’s lips when his husband tells him to get cracking. “You just wait…it’ll be my hand cracking over your arse for not telling me about this sooner.” The warrior raises his eyebrow at his mate teasingly. He gives Cinaed another deep kiss, before heading towards Uhtred to get started.

“Shit…did I piss him off? I didn’t mean to imply he couldn’t help with the roof…” Uhtred asks the Northman in a hushed tone, while he glances at Cinaed with a worried look.

Gunnar smirks at the worry in Uhtred’s voice for offending his mate. How does he say this without giving away Cinaed’s condition. The roof is the last place his mate should be. If he were to fall…Gunnar doesn’t even want to finish that thought, shaking his head.

“It’s fine, Uhtred…he knows you mean well.” Gunnar reassures the Dane.

“If you’re sure…” Uhtred looks into Gunnar’s icy blue eyes, not completely convinced he didn’t just make a huge blunder. “I’ll apologize to him…if he wants to—“

“No!” The Northman reaches out to stop Uhtred. “It’s better that he stays on the ground. Trust me.”

Not wanting to anger the Northman, Uhtred gives him a nod as they head to the woodpile. After moving the boards closer to the cottage, Uhtred fills a pouch on his waist with nails and grabs a hammer. He climbs the ladder to the roof, letting Gunnar hand him up one of the boards to nail in place. Having an extra set of hands makes the process go so much quicker and within a couple hours they have all the boards in place. Gunnar comes up and helps him finish nailing all the boards and then cut out a notch for the chimney for the hearth.

When the two men stop for a little break before adding the thatch, Gunnar and Uhtred both shed their sweaty tunics. Their muscles rippling in the sunlight. Tying a rope to one of the bundles of thatch, they hoist it onto the roof, before climbing up to spread it out. They do the same for the second bundle and the third, until the entire roof is covered.

Once they are finished, Uhtred is smiling like crazy. Excited that he is one step closer to giving his love a special gift. Gunnar spots Cinaed sitting in the grass playing with Hati and Luca, tossing a stick for them to chase after. The warrior stalks towards his mate, before pouncing on him, laying Cinaed down in the grass and attacking his neck with kisses and tickles from his beard until he is giggling and screeching.

Fuck, he loves him so much…he makes him the happiest man in the world.

The prince giggles at Gunnar’s teasing, thinking it perhaps wouldn’t be too unpleasant. He fucking loves when the Northman does that, after all.

“Yeah, yeah…” Cinaed brushes him off, before melting into his deep kiss. Their eyes linger on each other as they gradually pull away and Gunnar joins Uhtred. The prince gets to work unloading furs and supplies, gradually taking them inside and leaving them in an orderly fashion. He tries not to carry too much at a time or too quickly, for Gunnar and their pup’s sake, but it’s unnatural to do so. Once a significant amount of time has passed, Cinaed decides to take a little break. He sits in the shade and starts throwing sticks for Hati and Luca, chuckling at how excited it makes them.

Cinaed groans and takes a sip from his water skin, an uneasy feeling coming over him.

Fucking nauseous.

It only lasts a little while, and the shade and water helps, but damn. Then he is so joyously distracted as Gunnar pounces on him, tickling him relentlessly. Even with Uhtred nearby there’s no way the prince could contain his giggles.

“Aghhh stop it!”

The Northman relents when Cinaed touches his bite with his lips and gives him kisses, almost as if it calms the storm. He lays back in the grass and folds his hands behind his head.

“Wow. Is the roof done? That looks much better. Insulated… Uhtred, what’s next?” Cinaed asks the Dane, smiling at his obvious radiating happiness.

Letting out a breathy laugh, Gunnar relents his tickle assault on his husband when Cinaed kisses his mark. It’s madness how his mate can subdue him with a simple kiss on a scar, flooding his body with calm, among other sensations. Like his cock twitching in his trousers. The Northman takes in a deep breath trying to calm the sudden heat flowing through him.

“That’s not even fair…” he teases his mate with a whisper, before sitting back and taking in his gorgeous man. His hand reaches out of it’s own volition and settles softly on Cinaed’s belly. He really shouldn’t do that in Uhtred’s presence, but he just can’t help himself.

Uhtred grins taking in the display between the Northman and the prince. Seeing the love between them is palpable, and it warms his heart. He understands Finan’s protectiveness towards his son, and his hesitation letting the two of them be together, but if he just saw this side of them he would know, without a shred of doubt, they are meant to be together. Uhtred glances away, looking at the cottage again, while Cinaed and Gunnar have their moment. Not wanting to impose.

“Yes, the roof is done. Thank you, Gunnar. And thank you, Cinaed for helping to unload the wagon.” Uhtred grins in happiness. “Uh…I have some cupboards that need to be hung inside, I could use a hand with. Other than that, just finishing the top sections of the walls and getting everything put away.”

Gunnar stands up, then offers his hand to his husband to help him rise, then all three men head into the cottage. A large bed frame sits in one corner of the big room, and the bottom cabinets in the kitchen area have already been placed. A stone hearth sits in the center of one wall. Uhtred explains the arrangement of the furniture, the bed in one corner, a couch and rugs in front of the hearth, and table and chairs near the kitchen area. The Dane smiles as he pictures the cottage coming together.

“I had thought of ordering a bathing tub…but then with the beautiful waterfall and pool of water, I figured it wasn’t necessary.” Uhtred muses with a mischievous smile. “…besides, it gives me an excuse to warm Finan up.” The Dane softly snickers. He highly doubts he and Finan will be here in the winter, and in the summer the water outside is actually quite warm.

“Maybe we finish up these walls,” Uhtred points up at the section where the wall is supposed to meet the roof. “…then we can make some supper.”

“Excellent! You’re welcome!” Cinaed beams, taking Gunnar’s hand to help him stand. “Yes, let’s get it all squared away.”

As they enter the cottage, Cinaed admires it with his gaze, his eyes darting to all of the finer details and the parts that make it feel like a home. It might be a getaway, but it’s a home nonetheless with the effort the Dane has put into it. It’s actually quite beautiful, and the prince can’t believe that Uhtred did it all on his own up to this point. It probably took a long time.

“I think the water outside is plenty.” Cinaed adds, with a smirk. It’s definitely a great place to bathe. At first, the prince was feeling left out of the more masculine tasks, and now he just wants to sit and get comfy.

“Hurry, Gunnar, so I can have supper.” Cinaed says, grinning when the Northman raises his eyebrow. Gods, he loves that look.

“I’m kidding!” He snickers. “C’mon, I’ll help.”

Although, in Cinaed’s case, Gunnar highly doubts it would be a punishment, as lust darkens in his eyes. His mate would be so wet for him… Gunnar lets out a soft groan as he tries to shake the images from his mind, his cock already half hard. He quickly readjusts himself before turning his attention to the task at hand.

After heading back outside, Uhtred and Gunnar cut the boards to fit the open spots above the wall where it meets the roof. Just like before Gunnar hands up the boards after measuring and cutting them to fit, and Uhtred nails them in place. Together they quickly compete each side, fully enclosing the inside to the elements. When Uhtred steps off the ladder he looks up in wonderment, happy that the outside is finally finished, and one step closer to bringing his husband to see his surprise.

“Thank you again, Gunnar. It would have taken weeks for me to get this all done myself.” Uhtred gives the Northman a grateful smile.

Clapping Uhtred on the back, Gunnar returns his smile, proud that they were able to work together on this for Finan. “I’m happy to help. Despite everything in the past, I know Finan is a good man and he deserves this. Both of you do.”

“…now we better prepare some supper.” Gunnar grins as they head back inside. He finds Cinaed curled up on some furs taking a nap with Luca and Hati, and Gods, does his stomach flutter at the sight. In less than a couple months, their little bean will be curled up with them, and the Northman is so excited.

“Should we wake him?” Uhtred quietly asks.

Gunnar quickly bites back a growl, reminding himself where they are at and in who’s company. “No. Let him rest…he’ll wake when the food is ready.”

Uhtred pulls out some deer meat from one of his packs, and some vegetables, before cutting it all up and throwing it in a pot with some water. Gunnar starts a fire in the hearth, that Uhtred uses to cook the stew.

“I also have some bread and cheese to go with the stew…” Uhtred offers as he glances at the Northman.

But Gunnar only has eyes for Cinaed. Watching his little fox snuggle into the furs while he holds Luca close to him. A tender smile on the warrior’s face.

As the other men dive back in, Cinaed continues his unpacking and pulls out a few of Uhtred’s furs. The feel of them alone is very, very tempting.

Maybe just a cat nap…

The prince has never slept so much as he has in the past few days. It’s almost like his body is fending off an illness, but not quite. It’s a warmer feeling, like he’s fending for his little one, and his body needs extra rest to make up for it. And extra food. Plenty of extra food. As he spreads out a fur, he literally walks in a little circle as if he was in his fox form before laying down, Luca quickly joining him and Hati staying on their heels. Even with the hammering in the distance, Cinaed closes his eyes and he is out.

A while later, the prince’s nose twitches and flares at the smell of food before he even wakes. In fact, it’s exactly what wakes him. Cinaed opens his eyes slowly and gives his lover a sleepy smile as Gunnar stares down at him, a look in the prince’s eyes of pure adoration.

“Why are you staring at me? Creepy.” The prince grins.

“Careful, little fox…” Gunnar growls in a whisper. “Your bottom is going to be so sore by the time I’m done with you.” He leans in and captures Cinaed’s lips in a heated kiss. Biting his bottom lip as a taste of what’s to come if he continues being a smart mouth.

Even as he says it, Gunnar has to fight off his own arousal settling deep in his groin. His breaths getting heavier as Cinaed’s tantalizing scent sets over him. This is neither the time or place, with Uhtred only on the other side of the room.

“Behave…” Gunnar whispers in a low tone, before leading his husband to where Uhtred is dishing up the stew into bowls. He hands one to Cinaed, along with a hunk of bread before taking his own and leading them back over to the furs to sit and eat. Both of them share pieces with Luca, while Uhtred shares with Hati.

“After we finish eating, Cinaed and I will head to the waterfall and bathe. Would you mind keeping an eye on Luca?” The Northman asks the Dane.

Uhtred looks up with a teasing smile. He’d be blind not to see the heat and tension between the two lovers. Hel, they are still newlyweds. “I don’t mind. He and Hati seem to get along well. Now that the cottage is finished, except for the little stuff, we could call it a night and finish up in the morning before heading home.

There is a cave behind the waterfall, if you would like some privacy for the night. Finan and I slept there the last time we came here. Just take some extra furs with you, and anything else you need. I can watch over your pup tonight.” Uhtred offers as he tears off a chunk of bread before eating it.

Behave…

No!

“Yes, lover…” The prince purrs, almost inaudibly as he lets his eyes do the talking, a fiery challenge behind them. He follows Gunnar to their food and his attentions shift to Luca, as well as the growl in his belly. But when Gunnar tells Uhtred that they will be going to the river to bathe, the prince’s eyes shoot up from his bowl in surprise.

“We are? Oh…” the prince says, a little blush rising to his cheeks. There’s definitely no hiding this thing between them in front of Uhtred now. And then, the Lord of Bebbanburg seals his fate by offering them a cave, and offering to watch their child.

“Uhtred, that’s so kind, but um…” the prince says, then yelps a little when Gunnar grabs his thigh and pinches it between his large hand.

“… thank you. We’d love it.” He smirks, obediently relenting.

“This food is amazing, damn.”

Fuck, who’s the one actually being punished here. Him or me…

A low growl rumbles in his chest before he has a chance to stop it. Cinaed’s little smirk when he hears the sound, only fanning the flames. Gunnar pastes a smile on his face, hiding his internal turmoil, as he finishes eating his stew.

Uhtred’s offer of the cave for the night has Gunnar gloating inside. If Cinaed thinks he’s safe from punishment with the Dane nearby, he is sorely mistaken. The sound of the waterfall will muffle any moans or growls from the two of them as the Northman has his way with his mate. As soon as Cinaed says but, Gunnar squeezes his thigh to still his tongue.

“We greatly appreciate the offer Uhtred…I’m sure my husband and I will welcome the privacy.” The Northman returns his mate’s smirk. He almost busts out laughing when Cinaed turns their attention back to the food.

“Eat up, beloved…it’s going to be a long night.” Gunnar teases his lover with a challenging look in his eyes.

After they finish their food, Gunnar and Cinaed help Uhtred clean up the dishes, before gathering drying towels, a mountain of furs, and their essentials. Gunnar leans down and gives Luca a kiss on the top of his head while scratching under the pup’s chin.

“Be good for Uhtred. No sass and you go to bed when he says. I love you, and we’ll see you in the morning.” Luca lets out a little bark in answer, his eyes reflecting his obedience to his alpha. Gunnar gives Cinaed a moment to say his good nights as well.

“Thank you again, Uhtred.” Gunnar nods at the Dane before he ushers Cinaed out the door.

“Goodnight, baby… be good, okay?” Cinaed coos at their pup. “Love you darling. Be so good. We won’t be far.”

As Gunnar ushers him out the door, the prince almost disobediently stiffens before falling into stride. How could he?! Uhtred invited them here and they are abandoning him. Cinaed almost fumes a little at those thoughts before the captivating waterfall catches his attention, and the cave Uhtred mentioned. It’s very secluded, and comfortable.

“Gunnar… how dare you?!” The prince says once they’re safe away, but with a grin he can’t prevent. “Baby we are his guests, Jesus Christ…”

“If anything, I’m doing the Dane a service. I doubt your step-father wants to be kept up all night listening to your moans and screams.” A teasing smirk comes to the Northman’s face as he drops the heap of furs on the floor of the cave. The sound of the waterfall muffling any other sounds around them.

“Besides…I figured you might need to shift, and neither one of us wants to do that in front of Uhtred.” Gunnar rationalizes, giving his husband a loving look. Cinaed’s body is going through so many changes carrying their pup, not to mention any side effects he’s probably feeling being pregnant. Shifting in his fox form might be a welcome feeling, even for a little bit.

Feeling sweaty and dirty from all the work on the cottage, Gunnar quickly sheds his boots and trousers. He left his dirty tunic on the wagon earlier when he and Uhtred were working on the roof. The cool water from the pool sounds amazing right now. Not only that, but the thought of feeling his husband’s naked body against his has his cock already thickening.

“Ready for our bath?” Gunnar smirks at his mate, curious if he will come willingly, or if the warrior is going to have to throw him over his shoulder and wade in.

The prince narrows his eyes at his mate, his words making him feel both stubborn and aroused.

Moans and screams. The nerve of this man!

Cinaed looks down to hide his smile. Yes, he does need to shift. Gunnar is such an amazing mix of feral and tender towards him, and it makes his fucking heart soar. He always knows what he needs. But still, something about all of this makes him defiant. Perhaps he’s just testing his alpha for the first time… or it could be the rush of hormones his fox is experiencing.

“Agh, fine… I suppose.” The prince huffs, kicking off his own boots and throwing off his tunic.

“Oh, and I wouldn’t have kept Uhtred up with moans and screams. Perhaps I wouldn’t have let you that close to me, hm?”

But who the fuck am I kidding…

Holding out his hand, Gunnar leads Cinaed into the pool. The spray from the waterfall instantly coating them with moisture. The warrior lets out a soft sigh feeling the cool, refreshing water lapping at his skin. Rinsing the sweat and dirt from his body. He dunks his head under water for a moment getting his braids wet and cleaning the smudges from his face. He lathers soap in his hand washing himself before turning his attention to his mate. Despite Cinaed’s defiance today, he can see how much he is enjoying the warrior’s hands rubbing the suds all over his body.

Gunnar pays particular attention to the area between Cinaed’s legs. He tries to keep his touches casual, but when he gets close to his mate’s rim, he rubs a tantalizing finger over his entrance. He hears the muffled whimper his mate lets out, even if Cinaed tries to hide it. He does it again, with a wicked smile on his face.

“So you wouldn’t have let me close to you, hm?” The warrior teases as his mate tries to press his arse against the fingers teasing him. He lets one of his fingers slip inside, barely, before quickly withdrawing it. Smiling when he hears Cinaed’s sharp intake of breath, and the subsequent whine.

“So would you rather I not touch you?” Gunnar husks in a seductive tone as his fingers tease over his mate’s opening again. When Cinaed turns fiery eyes at him, Gunnar bites back a smirk.

“Hmm…I take that as a no?” Gunnar raises an eyebrow before claiming Cinaed’s lips in a heated kiss. Nibbling on his bottom lip. “If so, does that mean you’re going to take your punishment like a good boy?”

Gunnar’s fingers inevitably run across a very sensitive spot, and the prince tries to hide the way his body lit up like a flame to it. The Northman has a smug, wicked smile as Cinaed instinctively arches his hips to his hand.

He’s teasing me.

The prince’s gaze turns fiery and stubborn. Of course it’s a no!

When Gunnar kisses him, Cinaed moans into his mouth, like the Northman had been teasing him and edging him way past his tolerance. Then, he growls, deep under his breath as his amber eyes challenge his lover. He wants to be good… especially if it gets him such sweet release and proximity. But his fox seemingly has other ideas.

“So, not a good boy…” The warrior murmurs as he tilts his head at his mate, his own eyes turning icy at the challenge. Before Cinaed has a chance to react, Gunnar swoops him up in his arms and carries him to the furs in the cave. The fiery look in Cinaed’s eyes might deter a lesser man, but not his mate, not his alpha.

Laying his mate out on the furs, Cinaed’s growls get a little louder, and damn if Gunnar’s cock doesn’t get harder from the sound. His purrs and growls does something to the Northman’s stomach, causing it to flutter in delight anytime he hears them. Any sound his little fox makes makes him mad with lust.

“Is there something you need?” Gunnar husks as he rakes his teeth over the peaks of Cinaed’s chest before flicking each one with his tongue. His fingers tease down his mate’s chest, tracing the lines of his muscles before inching dangerously close to his love’s cock. He bypasses it to trail his fingers down Cinaed’s thighs, watching as goosebumps spread across his skin.

“Use your words, baby…”

Put me down!!

Grrrrr.

Cinaed thrashes a little as Gunnar carries him, growing more stubborn by the minute. He has no idea what’s gotten into him. It must be this place… his pup. Something. Things have grown increasingly animalistic between them, especially with Cinaed’s first full moon, but it’s usually only of pleasure. The prince has never growled at him like this, and the growls get a little louder as the Northman sets him down on the furs. Perhaps Gunnar was right… perhaps he needs to shift.

What’s gotten into me? …

As the Northman teases, bites, and licks at the peaks of his chest, Cinaed feels like he’ll explode. Something I need? Fuck. It’s almost painful, whatever part of him is gnawing at the surface. It has to be this switch of locations. It has to be. Why would he challenge his alpha like this? He fucking loves him.

“I need you to…agh…” the prince groans, closing his eyes. As his amber gaze flicks open again, his eyes filter over Gunnar’s impressive physique, all the way down to his hardening cock. Fuck, it looks so good. He just needs him to fuck this fight out of him, perhaps.

Cinaed suddenly arches up a little, nuzzling his cheek against the Northman’s, scenting him over and over as the growling in his chest is replaced by steady, rhythmic purrs.

“Need you inside me.” Cinaed purrs in his ear, before turning around on all fours for his mate.

A tender smile comes to Gunnar’s face when his mate starts scenting him, rubbing their cheeks together. Cinaed’s growls slowly shifting to purrs as his alpha scent starts to soothe him. The tingling of Gunnar’s core gets stronger when his mate purrs in his ear.

“Fuck, your so beautiful…” Gunnar husks when Cinaed shifts to all fours presenting himself for his alpha. His cock already rock hard and leaking.

Trailing his hand down Cinaed’s back, Gunnar shifts behind him. He can already smell his husband’s arousal heavy in the air before he even touches him. Placing a hand on each cheek, the warrior spreads him wider before leaning in to lick a wide strip over Cinaed’s rim. Gods, the taste of his wetness causing his cock to twitch.

“Mm, baby…so sweet.” Gunnar purrs before leaving a bite on Cinaed’s arse cheek. It satisfies his alpha seeing his mark on his mate. A claim that only he can make.

Lining his cock up at Cinaed’s entrance, Gunnar pauses as the head rests at his rim. Usually he opens his mate up with his fingers or his tongue, but something inside him tells him that his mate needs his cock more than anything. He slowly applies pressure until his cockhead breeches Cinaed’s ring of muscle, then he waits, giving him time to adjust.

“Tell me when you’re ready for more…” Gunnar softly rasps with a strangled breath. Fuck, he’s so tight…

Something about all of this is inherently controlled by his Fox form, and Cinaed has to bow to it. Perhaps just how Gunnar did in the beginning of his own shifts. His animal form won’t relent for anything in this circumstance besides the prospect of mating, and even the thought of it calms him. Perhaps because it’s such a natural act, in an unnatural place.

The prince’s eyes roll back and close when Gunnar licks his arse, his hips instantly shuddering at the sensation. And then, he bites him, and the pain feels so fucking good.

Please. Fuck.

Cinaed could beg for it, but Gunnar doesn’t make him. He sheaths his cock inside him so perfectly and lets the heavy weight of it settle while the prince starts fucking reeling.

“Gerðu það. Gefðu mér meira. Ég þarf meira…” Cinaed purrs, speaking to Gunnar in his native language in a last ditch attempt to ground him from whatever madness has been brought out in him. The prince kneels forward to rest his chest down, keeping his hips up for his lover as he rotates to look at him, giving him the most fervent fuck-me eyes he’s ever had.

“You like it when I mark you, don’t you?” The Northman purrs. When he’s half way inside his mate he smacks his arse with his palm, watching as his handprint blooms red on Cinaed’s fair skin. Gunnar breathes in a shuddering breath when his mate clenches around his cock, strangling his length. The pleasure mixed with pain reverberating through their pair bond.

The look in Cinaed’s eyes almost does him in. Those fuck-me eyes shredding what little control Gunnar has left. He grips Cinaed’s hips and drags him back against his cock, hard, burying himself inside him.

“Fuck baby…” he growls as his length throbs inside his lover. “Svona góður strákur…”

Gunnar forces himself to wait again, to let his mate adjust to being stretched wide around him, but when Cinaed eagerly wiggles his bottom against him, he can’t wait any longer. He pulls out, almost to the tip, then thrusts in hard. He does it again and again as the sounds of skin slapping against skin echoes in the cave.

“This is what you need…for your alpha to dominate you.” Gunnar growls as he thrusts in deep, his toes curling with each pass.

Fuck, exactly what I needed…

Gunnar is so tentative, as if he’s worried to hurt Cinaed or cause him any pain, but it’s been different ever since his first shift. The prince’s body accepts him instantly, the Northman’s words enough to have Cinaed leaking for him. Perhaps his fox has made him a little slutty.

“I fucking love it when you mark me.” The Prince purrs, hissing as Gunnar slaps his arse hard enough to make it sting. Fuck he loves that. It feels so good that he strangles his lover’s cock inside him, clenching and gripping him as Cinaed gives him that fervent gaze from below. With a strong grip the Northman pulls him back and sheathes himself fully, and it makes the Prince whimper.

“Deeper, baby. Make me feel it…” Cinaed mutters, rewarded with exactly that as his toes curl beneath him. He wants Gunnar to bite him again. To mark him on his arse again, to feel those rough hands again. A dark, damp, desolate cave and they are fucking like their lives depend on it, as they always do. Damn Gunnar and his beautiful physique and that pretty, gravelly voice. It’s irresistible.

“Fuck, baby…” the warrior growls as his husband pushes back against him. Gods, he just wants to devour Cinaed, place his marks all over his body. He smacks his mate’s other arse cheek, smiling at the red handprint flaring out. “Gods, your look so beautiful with my marks all over you. Completely and utterly mine.”

Moving his hips fervently, back and forth, Gunnar’s head rolls back as a deep moan rumbles from his chest. The scent of his mate wrapping around him gives him a heady feeling. The slick leaking out of his lover each time he pulls out is making him mad with hunger. Looking down, Gunnar watches as his cock slides in and out of his mate, filling him up with each pass.

Gathering some of Cinaed’s leaking wetness on his fingers, his guides them to his mate’s mouth. A smirk curling the warrior’s face when his husband doesn’t hesitate to take what he is offering. Cinaed’s tongue wraps around his fingers as they dive into his mouth, licking the wetness from his fingers. Fuck it’s so hot, and Gunnar’s cock twitches deep inside him as he buries himself to the hilt.

“See how good you taste, baby?” Gunnar purrs. “I could feast on you all night.

Cinaed jumps when the Northman’s strong hand lands on his arse again, something about the burning shock of it making his stomach flutter and his cock twitch. It’s another feral display of his husband’s need that makes him fucking ache, and more than that it makes him whine for more.

“Yes, yes, fuck…” the prince moans as Gunnar’s hips slap against him, each thrust hitting a very special spot. He’s still a little edgy— but if his alpha, his mate feels safe to be here doing this, he should too. Cinaed is instantly distracted from that thought when the Northman brings his fingers to his mouth. He obediently takes them between his lips and sucks them, twirling his tongue against the pads. He tastes himself and he groans, guttural and primal.

“Y-you’re the one who tastes good…” and smells good. Feels good. Fucking enrapturing.

“God, fuck. You’re going to drive me mad if you keep going like that…” the prince says with panted breaths.

“Mine…always mine…” Gunnar growls as a wave of possessiveness comes over him. Hauling Cinaed up with an arm wrapped around his chest and the hand on his love’s throat, the warrior nuzzles into his neck before bringing his lips to his for a ravaging kiss.

“I love driving you mad…” the Northman husks against Cinaed’s lips, his mate’s panted breaths stirring the fire inside of him.

Fuck, he’s squeezing me so tight…

Gunnar’s hand trails down Cinaed’s waist to take his bouncing cock, the tip dripping precum that he uses to stroke down his length. “So hard for me, baby…” the warrior purrs, loving how Cinaed’s cock pulses in his hand. The hitch in his husband’s breath going straight to Gunnar’s core.

“I love seeing you wrecked on my cock…the pleasure haze in your eyes, the way your body begs for everything I have to give you…it’s absolutely gorgeous. My little fox…” Gunnar nibbles on Cinaed’s bottom lip, holding him tight against him as his cock grinds deep.

When Gunnar’s hand traces down to his belly to grip his cock, the prince achingly arches back against him, his body shuddering as his breath hitches. The Northman strokes him so perfectly, in time with his thrusts and not gentle but also reverent, like he’s listening for every reaction. Just savagely enough to drive Cinaed crazy. As the Northman speaks so tenderly and fervently, the prince feels himself blush with rosy fire in his cheeks.

“I-I fucking love you,” Cinaed chokes out in a little purr. “I’m sorry for misbehaving. I won’t … fuck… do it again.”

The prince gives Gunnar another wet kiss, realizing he’s on the edge of a really strong peak. It’s been stronger since the conception of their pup, and Cinaed doesn’t pretend to know why. He just indulges in it.

“Just know, if you misbehave, you’ll be punished…” the warrior growls as his hips snap hard against his mate. He knows he’s asking for trouble by saying that. His love may misbehave on purpose, just to get this reaction out of him, but honestly he doesn’t mind. He loves his fiery little fox.

“Are you getting close for me?” Gunnar purrs in Cinaed’s ear before his lips trail down his neck. The warrior can already feel the tingling of his knot. Feel the base expanding as it starts catching on his husband’s rim. A couple more hard thrusts is all he can manage before it locks him inside. His hold on his mate tightening when he feels the shudder run through Cinaed.

Gunnar kisses Cinaed’s silvery scar, delighting in the moans that fall from his mouth. Just one little bite and he knows it will tip his mate over the edge. Cinaed’s cock is throbbing in his hand, and he can feel the trembling of his legs as he holds him against him. Gunnar’s eyes close for a moment letting the sensations envelope him. The wildflower and lavender scent, the feel of his skin against his, the way he’s gripping his cock so tight.

“Cum for me, Cinaed…let me feel you take what you need.” The warrior demands, drawing so close himself. His hand works the tip of his mate’s cock, giving him that extra friction to send him over the edge. His teeth rake against Cinaed's mark before sinking into the flesh.

“Yes, lover…” Cinaed says obediently, breathlessly. As if he wouldn’t love if Gunnar punished him. He cries out at his husband’s hard thrusts, hoping to the Gods that Uhtred didn’t hear it from afar. It was fucking loud. Typically, they shift positions a few times… but his lover mounted behind him like this drives the prince so feral with need. There’s no way he can keep it together for much longer as Gunnar’s cock practically fucks the cum out of him.

“Yes, I’m so fucking close… oh, god…” Cinaed whines, squeezing his eyes shut and furrowing his brows.

I’m going to cum so hard…

The Northman’s hold on his throat grows more relentless, and Cinaed tries not to scream as his lover’s cock starts to engorge and fill him up tighter. Gunnar’s hand moves expertly over the crown of his cock and makes his legs tremble, just before sinking his teeth into the silvery scar at the prince’s neck. Gunnar has the perfect awareness to slip his hand over the prince’s mouth as Cinaed simultaneously cums and takes his husband’s swollen knot inside him, releasing desperate, aching sounds that he denied he’d make earlier in the night.

“Me too, baby…so close.” Gunnar groans as he tries to keep it together just a little bit longer. His knot has fully engorged and the pressure around it has him reeling. As soon as Cinaed clenches down on him, he knows he’ll be done for. No holding back.

His hand flicks back and forth over the crown of Cinaed’s cock. His other hand tightens on his throat as his teeth sink into the tender flesh where his mark shimmers on his mate’s neck. Gunnar feels the moment Cinaed tightens against him, the clenching around his cock that drags a guttural groan from the warrior. Warmth fills his hand as Cinaed tips over the edge, and Gunnar cups his hand over the head of his cock to collect all of his spend. He moves his other hand over Cinaed’s mouth, muffling the aching sounds of his release that would otherwise reverberate against the cave walls.

Oh, and I wouldn’t have kept Uhtred up with moans and screams….

The warrior smiles to himself remembering Cinaed’s words of defiance. The pressure around his knot becomes too much, and Gunnar feels himself falling into that state of bliss only his mate can give him. Growls mixed with deep moans rip from his throat as he fills his mate with his seed. His abdomen quivers with the force of it, and his legs tremble as he holds on to Cinaed for dear life. White stars flash in his vision as his breaths turn ragged and heavy.

“Fuck, baby…Gods, you undo me.” He rasps as he clutches Cinaed tight to his body as his cock spasms inside him.

When the aftershocks finally pass, Gunnar gently lays Cinaed down on the furs, running his hand over his mate’s back in loving caresses. He licks the spend he gathered in his hand from his lover’s release, not wanting to waste a drop of his sweetness. Hovering over his husband, he tilts Cinaed’s face to his, giving him a ravishing kiss, letting him taste himself on his tongue.

“Such a good boy for me…” Gunnar husks in a deep gravely voice. “….you took your punishment so well.”

The warrior curls up behind his love, pulling Cinaed firmly against his chest as he nuzzles his nose into his neck. Breathing in their shared scents gives Gunnar a heady feeling as the afterglow of their release drums inside him.

“Well… you’re my alpha, so I’ll take whatever you give me.” The prince purrs, nuzzling their noses before closing his eyes and arching back into Gunnar’s touch. He hums in utter comfort and lust as his mate caresses him, the feeling of his knot inside him a still heavy reminder that he fucking loves. He takes the Northman’s hand and places it on his low belly.

“The flutters. Feel it?” Cinaed whispers in a love hazed tone. Gunnar won’t be able to feel it by touch alone, but by their pair bond surely.

“Your pup is tickling me.” The prince grins.

“I’ll give you anything you want, baby…all you have to do is ask.” Gunnar smirks at his love, before giving him a tender kiss. 

He loves how Cinaed arches into his touch as he caresses his back and sides and the soft hum he lets out. When his mate takes his hand and places it over his belly, a huge grin comes to the warrior’s face.

“Hmm…” Gunnar closes his eyes, concentrating on their pair bond, until he feels their little one moving. “Yes! I feel it…” the warrior softly chuckles. “…the flutters are getting stronger.”

“Our pup…” the Northman grins, delighted seeing the happiness in his mate’s eyes. “Do I need to scold them for tickling you?” Gunnar playfully raises his eyebrow. “Do you think their paws and tail are growing? Maybe their little ears…” he asks excitedly, his face beaming in happiness.

“How are you feeling, baby? Is there anything I can do for you to make you more comfortable?” Gunnar softly asks as he lovingly caresses his mate’s belly.

“Yes. Little paws and ears and… everything.” Cinaed purrs with a beaming smile.

“Oh baby, I feel so good now… earlier I was very nauseous and a little grumpy but I’m feeling better. I think you’ll have to be patient with me these next several weeks…”

Nuzzling their noses together again, the prince gives Gunnar another deep kiss before easing his whole weight back against him.

“Mm, actually… I’m freezing now.” Cinaed says, grabbing a fur and purring louder when Gunnar spreads it out over him. “Oh, and keep your hand there,” he says, laying his own hand over the Northman’s on his belly.

“They’ll know you’re watching them as they tickle me to death.” He snickers.

“I’ll be patient, baby. Just let me know when you’re not feeling well and I’ll do anything I can to alleviate your discomfort. I love you so much, and I want you to be happy and comfortable while you are giving us this amazing gift.” Gunnar purrs and he looks lovingly into Cinaed’s eyes.

“It is getting a little chill in here…” Gunnar smiles as he spreads the fur Cinaed grabbed over them. “…but I’ll keep you warm.”

When Cinaed places his hand over his on his belly, Gunnar feels his heart flutter. “I wouldn’t dream of moving it…” he softly reassures. It comes so naturally to him, wanting to touch the place Cinaed is carrying their pup. Almost like he is protecting something precious, which it very much is. His wolf howls in his chest wanting to guard their offspring.

Gunnar lets out a deep rumble of laughter, his heart giddy with joy when his mate says their pup is going to tickle him to death. Gods, it still seems unimaginable, his mate carrying his pup. But it’s real. He has felt it through the pair bond, the new life they created.

“Yes. I’ll be watching them. And when my knot goes down, I’ll share words with them. Remind them to let their faðir get some rest.” The warrior chuckles as he nuzzles into Cinaed cheek, scenting him before he peppers his cheek with kisses. “They can probably feel the warmth of my hand through your belly.”

“Do you want to rest for a little while and then shift when my knot releases us?” Gunnar softly asks as he snuggles Cinaed closer to him, tangling his legs with his.

For some reason, Gunnar’s words make the Prince want to cry. Not of sadness, but of sheer radiating happiness.

“So tender to me. I love you too…” Cinaed purrs, closing his eyes as his mate nuzzles into him under the fur. He grins when Gunnar bellows laughter, probably at the dramatic part of his statement. When the Northman scents him and leaves kisses on his cheek, the prince snickers and pinches Gunnar’s thigh with his hand under the furs.

“They can definitely feel you. This is only the second time the flutters have happened, and both have been when I’m by your side. Not that I stray far…” the prince grins again.

“Yes, I need to shift so badly. Until then…”

The prince rests back against his lover, tilting his head to look up at him. “… you’ve never told me of your family. Your father, and mother. Siblings. Will you tell me about them?” Cinaed purrs.

“They know when their sire is near…and they want to make their presence known.” Gunnar beams at his mate. He feels the connection between him and Cinaed getting stronger with each passing day, and now it’s extending to their little bean.

“We’ll shift, baby…run off some of the pent up energy stirring inside us.” Gunnar agrees as he kisses Cinaed’s curls. He has found himself needing to shift at least once a day, otherwise his wolf starts pacing inside him, clawing at his chest.

Gunnar feels warm spread through him as Cinaed rests against his chest. When he tilts his head up to him, with those gorgeous amber eyes looking deep into his, the warrior feels his heart melt. Gunnar wraps his arms snug around his husband.

“I haven’t, have I…” Gunnar muses. Honestly he hasn’t thought of his parents in a long time. It seems like a lifetime ago since they passed. “My father was an explorer and a warrior, much like I became at Ragnar’s side. My mother was a gentle soul. Revna often reminds me of her with her tenderness and care for others. They both passed when I was just a boy…eleven years old. During a raid of our village by a neighboring Jarl. Ragnar’s family took me in and raised me alongside Ragnar and Rollo.”

The prince feels the need to shift too, badly. Something about this recent conception has him nearly suffering to shift at least once a day, for some reason. Perhaps the energy of it is soothing to his pup, or it helps in its growth. The prince has no idea. Cinaed was inclined to ask about Gunnar’s parents since they themselves will soon be parents as well. They usually have talks like this late at night, wrapped in each other’s arms… and although Gunnar has mentioned much, he never really mentioned them.

As Cinaed closes his eyes and listens to Gunnar’s musing about his upbringing, he gets a punch straight in the chest and stomach at his words. Fuck, if only he could have known. To promote any sort of pain for his lover is unbearable.

“Baby… I’m so sorry. That sounds so painful. They didn’t… deserve that,” Cinaed says softly and shakes his head.

“You were so young. Gods, my heart hurts for you.”

“Ragnar and I were playing in the forest when the raid happened. Even though we were only boys, we did our best to protect the women and children that fled into the trees, with small axes and knives. Sigurd, Ragnar’s father, adopted me and welcomed me into his family. That is why Ragnar and I became so close. Like brothers.” Gunnar looks lovingly into his mate’s eyes, before brushing a stray strand of hair from his face.

“I don’t know if my father knew there was a wolf inside of him, that it had passed down from his father. He never spoke of it, and I never saw him shift.” Gunnar muses as he tries to think back to any time that his father’s wolf may have appeared, but he can’t remember ever seeing it. Maybe he repressed it, much like Finan does with his fae magic. Maybe it stayed dormant in him.

A tender smile comes to Gunnar’s face when his mate says his heart hurts for him. “Baby, it’s alright. I don’t mind you asking about them. It’s good to remember those we have lost. It keeps their memories alive. In a sense, I had two fathers, Tjörvi and Sigurd. And Ragnar’s mother always treated me with kindness and caring. After awhile I think she considered me like blood, like her true son.

…maybe that was why Rollo was so jealous of me.” Gunnar never really thought of that before, but maybe that’s why Rollo took him captive. Tried to break him so that he would be loyal to him, because he felt Gunnar had stolen something from him.

Maybe that’s how Asgeir feels about me. I had something he didn’t get to experience. The love of our father.

It has taken many years for Gunnar to come to terms with the idea that his father was unfaithful to his mother. Siring a son with another woman on one of his travels to the northwest of Norway. In a ship makers village. Making promises to her he could not or would not keep. And leaving behind a son that would never know him.

“… it’s good to honor their memory. Still… you’ve had a life of such pain, and that ends where you and I meet. Right here. Our family...” He says reverently, giving Gunnar a soft, slow kiss as his hand interlaces the fingers of the one holding his belly.

“… you know that you’re going to be so happy, right?” Cinaed grins at him. Gods, what a silly question. The Northman already beams every time they are together, and so does the prince. “I’ll make you so happy. I told you that months ago and I meant it.”

Leaning up to scent his cheek, the prince’s breath hitches when Gunnar rolls his hips into him, still feeling him deep and dominant inside him. They get lost in another kiss, and when they pull away, Cinaed sees something cross Gunnar’s icy blue eyes. He takes his cheek, caressing it with his thumb.

“Is there more?” He asks softly, wondering.

“I know you meant it, baby…and you have. Everything you have given me, your love, our pups, and our home, is more than I could have ever imagined. I feel like I can’t stop smiling when I’m with you, because you make me so happy.” Even now, Gunnar can’t wipe the smile off his face. It’s almost like it’s engrained in him, especially when he is near his love.

Cinaed’s scent envelopes him as his mate scents his cheek. Gods, he loves it when he does that, loves the flood of wildflowers and lavender that permeate around them. Gunnar can’t help himself when he rolls his hips against Cinaed, feeling himself locked deep and tight inside his mate. His knot still pulsing from the connection. He takes his husband in another passionate kiss, deep and full of hunger. He can’t get enough of him and the spell his mate puts over him. When they pull away, his earlier thoughts flash through his mind about his brother. The brother he has yet to claim.

When Cinaed asks him if there is more, Gunnar lets out a soft sigh. His mate can read him so well, can sense when something is troubling him.

“I supposedly have a brother…” Gunnar almost whispers. It’s the first time he has given voice to the notion. He sees the curious look in his mate’s eyes, so he continues, knowing that he can feel safe in sharing this with him.

“When I was in my mid twenties, a young man sought me out. A teenager by all accounts. He claimed that we shared a father. That we were brothers. But I didn’t believe him, because that would have meant my father was unfaithful to my mother. The thought of it crushed me. My father, sleeping with another woman when he was gone for weeks at a time.

I vehemently denied his claim. Didn’t want to see what was so plainly right before me. Piercing blue eyes, dark hair, the same chiseled jaw…” Gunnar softly shakes his head. “It was like looking at a younger version of my father. The evidence of his betrayal to my mother.”

“The young man came looking for a brother and for a pendant belonging to his father. One that his mother had told him was promised to him. A carved bone pendant of Njord’s ship, that Tjörvi wore during voyages. The pendant that I kept in my pocket to keep him close. In my heart, I knew the only way that young man would have known about the pendant was if it was true. My father spent time with his mother…intimately.”

“I was angry…I was livid.” Gunnar can still feel the emotions of that day racing through him. “I told him he has no brother. We fought…he split my lip, and I laid him on the ground. He still wouldn’t take back his claim, and for one  brief moment I could see my father so clearly in him.”

“I stormed off…but not before throwing the pendant in the dirt at his feet. I told him to take it, and do not return. He told me I could have kept it, and I threw back in his face that he said it was his.” Gunnar lets out a mirthless chuckle, “He had the stones to say, ‘No. I said I wanted something that belonged to our father. I wanted you to give it to me like a brother.’. As if…” Gunnar shakes his head.

“Now that I’m older, and after everything I’ve been through, I can’t help but regret that moment of turning him away. I have no idea where he is or if he’s even still alive…it haunts me.” Gunnar softly says, the regret shining in his eyes.

“And now…knowing what I am, I can’t help but wonder if he’s the same. If he has had to face being a werewolf all alone with no one to guide or help him…without his brother.”

“Now that you say that… he had to have been,” Cinaed says. “I mean, how could you not be related?”

Damn.

“I’m so sorry to hear that. It would have been nice for you to have a brother, one that you loved. But… it’s not always what it’s cracked up to be.”The prince smirks, thinking of Ronan, and then another he’s never mentioned before.

“I actually have an estranged brother too, but he’s um… a bastard. Younger than me. And you know… he’s not even a bastard, he’s a love child between my mother and some knight or something.” Cinaed furrows his brows and shakes his head.

“He was raised by my mother’s father, and is heir to her original homeland. And get this, baby… they’re our fucking rivals. Or were.”

Cinaed can see the shock in Gunnar’s eyes, probably because he knows his mother so well. He smiles and talks slowly, just enjoying speaking to him about it and hearing about his family history too.

“When Finan married my mother it was for an alliance between the Kingdoms, and it’s lasted thus far.

Anyway, he’s a nice kid… to me, anyway. But otherwise he is so solemn. So guarded. A perfect heir to the throne… because he doesn’t have the rebellious nature me or Ronan have. Mum loves him… from afar, mostly.”

“Yeah, it would have been nice to have a brother, if I would have just taken my head out of my arse…” Gunnar shakes his head at himself as a little smirk curls his lips.

“Hey, Ronan isn’t too bad…” the warrior can see what his mate is thinking by the look in his eyes as he lets out a soft chuckle. “…as long as he keeps the bow and arrow at home, and stops eavesdropping on other peoples conversations and intimate moments…Gods, when you say it like that, it really isn’t all that it’s cracked up to be.” Gunnar starts laughing.

When Cinaed mentions that he has a half-brother, Gunnar’s eyes widen in surprise. The bits and pieces he has heard about Ethne and Finan’s estrangement, he honestly can blame her for finding her own lover. Lagertha basically did the same to Ragnar, after he brought home another woman. Although Lagertha’s new husband was an arse, and he was proud of her for killing him.

“Your rivals?” Gunnar’s eyes widen again in shock as a little smile curls his lips. He loves listening to Cinaed talk and tell him stories about his homeland and family.

“That’s good that he’s nice to you and you two get along. What about Ronan? Does he have anything to do with your younger brother?” Gunnar has noticed that Ronan seems to keep his distance from Ethne, and he has openly claimed Revna as his mother.

“Your mother is a sweet woman, and I can see in her eyes how much she loves her children. Even the stubborn one…” Gunnar lets out a soft chuckle. 

“…I’m sure she’ll be a wonderful grandmother as well.” Gunnar beams as he gives his mate a kiss on the nose. His heart melting when Cinaed’s amber eyes look into his.

“All of us are perilous in our youths, aren’t we?” Cinaed says, giving the Northman a teasing gaze to which Gunnar pinches his side, as if he completely read his mind about still being young.

“Exactly. Ronan is insufferable,” Cinaed chuckles, not denying it one bit. His older brother is very lovable but also pretty maddening.

“And yes, we are technically rivals. But… I don’t know. He’s young, and he’s actually really sweet. I hope the title doesn’t go to his head…” the prince muses.

“Well… no, actually. Ronan has nothing to do with him, and I don’t think they’ve ever spoke two words to each other. Ronan and my mother just… don’t get along. He blames her for sending my father away. For letting it happen. And then… for having that love child, even though she never once neglected us for it. He’s hard on her, and… it’s irreparable. He just loves Finan too much. Perhaps one day, they’ll make peace, but...” Cinaed sighs.

“You aren’t the only one with some painful dynamics… I hope that’s a comfort, darling.” He says, nuzzling his nose into Gunnar’s cheek.

“Yeah. She’ll be great, hm? All of our family will be.” Cinaed says, giving the Northman a tender little gaze.

Even when he’s being a naughty boy…Gunnar smirks, remembering Cinaed’s attitude earlier.

“Yes, our family will be great. Our children will know the love of two parents that adore them, of their sister, their uncle, and grandparents. They will have everything we didn’t have when we were little. I will make sure of that.” Gunnar vows solemnly. His family is his whole world.

The Northman feels the moment his knot finally releases them, and he lets out a soft groan. Gods, he just wants to stay buried inside of his love all night. But, he did promise Cinaed a shift and a run. A chance to explore around the waterfall and surrounding forest. Besides, he loves how much stronger the lavender scent is when his mate is in his fox form. It make him want to tackle him to the ground and nuzzle his belly while his little fox purrs in that comforting sound.

Gunnar rolls his hips against his husband one last time before reluctantly withdrawing his softening cock. The little sound of disappointment Cinaed lets out make him smile, knowing that he isn’t the only one that hates when they separate.

“Are you ready to shift, baby? We can explore around the waterfall if you like…just stay close to me, since we are in unfamiliar territory.” Gunnar gives Cinaed a deep kiss, caressing his mate’s belly again before helping him up. At least they don’t have to remove their clothes since they have already done that part.

“Yes. I’ll stay close to you…” the prince purrs against Gunnar’s lips as they kiss. The Northman helps him up, and Cinaed begs a little distance as he shifts into his fox form. It’s completely cathartic… exactly what he needed, but he feels a little wild for some reason. He instantly sprints into a run, inwardly grinning as his husband stays on his heels. He stops by the waterfall and teases Gunnar with a few jumping motions, stepping on the wolf’s paws, before he nuzzles against him and drags his sleek body across the wolf.

So handsome! The prince chimes out. He loves seeing his husband in his wolf form. It’s as if the fox is as attracted as Cinaed is to Gunnar. The prince moves toward the waterfall, taking a clumsy drink of the water before sneezing.

A soft sound escapes Gunnar’s throat as his mate nuzzles into him. Something between a growl and a purr. He loves when Cinaed drags his sleek body across his, especially since his scent is so much stronger. The wolf’s eyes linger on his mate’s fluffy bottom and tail. It doesn’t matter if Cinaed is human or fox, he loves staring at his arse. His sweet scent tantalizing Gunnar’s senses.

…and you are absolutely gorgeous. Especially with the moon reflecting on your beautiful red fur.

Gods, don’t get him started on Cinaed’s perfect little nose, and his adorable ears. Gunnar lets out a huff of breath trying to calm the rising heat in his body. He chuckles inwardly when Cinaed sneezes after trying to take a drink from the waterfall. It took him a long time to learn the lesson on how to drink in his wolf form. It’s not as easy as it looks.

Do you want to go for a run through the meadow? I’m sure Uhtred, Hati and Luca are asleep by now.

When Cinaed nips at his tail then takes off at a run, Gunnar’s wolf grins before giving chase. It feels good to stretch his legs and run. Burn off some of this energy coiled inside him. He takes in the different scents around them as they run, his ears perked out listening for threats. He can smell deer and rabbits close by and it’s so tempting to hunt one down, his prey instincts running high, but he tampers it down and focuses on his mate.

When Cinaed gets winded from their little run, and rolls in the grass, Gunnar hovers over him looking down into his glowing amber eyes. The wolf licks his mate’s snout, chuckling when he lets out another adorable sneeze. Crouching down, Gunnar nuzzles his mate’s belly, breathing heavily of the lavender scent. 

@cinaedofulaid

Gunnar is such a lover with his words, bringing a warmth to the prince’s belly to be so coveted and complimented so beautifully. It makes him so aroused when he does that. He’s so sweet to him, and he makes the Prince truly feel gorgeous. And of course he wants to take a run through the meadow.

Yes yes!

Cinaed playfully nips at Gunnar’s tail, sending them into a little playful frenzy. The prince runs and runs, feeling like he could go on forever, especially when his mate is chasing him. He lets out a little whiny fox sound and turns the tables on his lover, chasing him, until he feels absolutely winded. He lays down in the grass and rolls around, liking the scent of the wildflowers.

Oof.

The tall black wolf hovers over him, licking his snout and making Cinaed sneeze. He looks like a predator this way, but the prince couldn’t possibly feel any safer. His attention is brought down to his belly when Gunnar nuzzles into it, and he would admit that it does feel a little heavier, especially in this position. It’s madness to think there’s a pup growing in there.

As Gunnar nuzzles his belly with his nose, the prince’s purrs turn audibly loud and he starts panting a little. Something about it just stirs his body, and it recognizes that Gunnar is his mate. His whiskers twitch a little and he leans up to nibble on Gunnar’s ear.

He’s not really planning on riding out to the border, but he can’t tell Finan the real reason for his absence. At least not yet. Not until he finishes preparing his love’s surprise, which he is desperately hoping to have ready in time for their anniversary. One year ago he married his best-friend. The one who has held his heart since the first time he laid eyes on him on the Trader, and he wants to make this anniversary special. To make up for cutting their honeymoon short, and hurting his husband in the worse possible way.

“I promise, I’ll be careful…I’ll even take some men with me.” Uhtred gives his Irishman his best puppy dog eyes, knowing Finan can’t resist them.

“I’ll make it up to you when I return…” Uhtred purrs with a seductive look in his eyes and a playful smirk.

When Finan huffs out a sigh of resignation, Uhtred can’t help but smile. He pulls Finan into a heated kiss, already imagining the special night he has planned for them. “Watch over Lachlan for me?” Uhtred softly asks, with tenderness in his voice.

When Finan nods yes, the Dane breathes a sigh of relief. He only trusts Elle, Finan and Revna to watch over his little boy. “Thank you, baby. I love you so much.” Uhtred places another gentle kiss on Finan’s lips, feeling his Irishman’s hesitation in letting him go. Hel, he’s hesitant to let him go too. The temptation to drag him back into their chambers is so strong, but he has to get this done.

“Give the girls my love, and apologize to Tora for me for taking her friend.” Uhtred smirks. Hati has become more her companion than his, but he likes the extra protection the wolf offers him especially when he’s away from home.

Before he loses his resolve, Uhtred places another kiss on Finan’s palm before striding out of the Hall, calling for Hati to follow on his way out. He had asked the guardsmen to prepare Tintreg for him, and his stallion is already stomping his feet eager for the ride. Another horse is loaded with supplies he will need to finish his project.

Clicking at Tintreg, Uhtred leads the horse to the village, or rather the outskirts. He had asked Cinaed the night of the celebration for their wedding if he could steal his husband for a day or two to help him with his project. He hopes that is still alright. As he nears the cottage set off in the woods, a smile comes to his face. The lovebirds have had a week to enjoy their honeymoon, hopefully they are ready to venture out.

Dismounting his horse, Uhtred walks to the door and knocks. He stands there a little nervously. Gunnar is an imposing man, even to him, and he wouldn’t want to get on the Northman’s bad side. Uhtred’s brows furrow as he waits with Hati beside him.

Is that growling I hear…

@askuhtredragnarson

“Yeah, you better make it up to me. And you better be careful.” The Irishman pouts.

Why isn’t he asking me to go with him?

I’m always at your side…

Despite the past year being much more homemaking than Finan has ever been used to, he doesn’t necessarily miss too much of the strife they’ve been through in recent years. Traveling with Uhtred, though… he misses it. Being on the road, camping by rivers, hunting with his Lord and his brothers. To live in Bebbanburg is an actual dream come true, but sometimes the Irishman yearns for some of the happenings not so long ago. Stolen glances and touches included, not limited to actually jumping each other’s bones in the forest after that one lustful night.

Finan is suspicious. But perhaps Uhtred just wants some time on his own. With all the raucous of their household, that’s reasonable. Right?

The Irishman nods about Lachlan, and he nods about the girls. Of course he’d make sure everything would stay in order. Even if his sanity is walking out the door.

“Goodbye, husband. Return to me.” Finan drawls in a loving voice with sparkling dark eyes.

“If you bring someone else home, you know that I’ll kill them.” He smiles when Uhtred laughs at that.

***

As they lay upon the furs on the floor by the hearth, it’s a miracle that the lovers are clothed. In this moment they are, just taking a cat nap together on the floor with Luca.

“Hey,” Cinaed says in a teasing warning when Gunnar growls at the knock at the door. Then Luca barks, loudly.

“Hey!” The prince scolds them. It’s a familiar smell. It’s Uhtred, definitely. Cinaed’s newest senses don’t allow him to forget anything these days. He stands and swings the door open despite Gunnar’s growls.

“Lord Uhtred, hello.” The prince says with a smile. “What brings you all the way out here?”

Shit, did I already piss him off…

Uhtred clears his throat then returns his smile to Cinaed. The young man is absolutely glowing. Marriage suits him. “So, uh…remember when I asked if I could steal your husband away for a couple of days to help me finish a surprise for your father? I was kind of hoping it could be now. Our anniversary is only a few days away and the only way it’ll be ready in time is if I have a little help.”

When Gunnar approaches the door, he quirks an eyebrow at his husband, an almost playful look in his eyes despite the firmness of his features. Uhtred takes it as if maybe Cinaed hasn’t had a chance to mention it to the big Northman. He can’t blame him, he’s sure their focus has been entirely on each other since their wedding.

“Gunnar.” Uhtred gives the warrior a nod in greeting. “As I was saying…I was hoping you could come with me for a couple days and help me finish the surprise I’ve been working on for Finan. I’ve been working on it for the last few months and it’s so close to being done. I just need to have it completed by Lughnasadh.”

Uhtred watches as Gunnar protectively takes his husband’s hand as he looks first in Cinaed’s eyes and then his. “I would be happy to come help, but I won’t leave my husband behind. I only go if he goes too.” There is a little bit of a challenge in the Northman’s eyes, along with something else the Dane isn’t quite sure of. Maybe protectiveness, like he is guarding something precious.

“Fair enough…the more the merrier. Bring him, and your pup.” Uhtred’s smile turns into a smirk as he nods at Gunnar. “I trust both of you can keep a secret?” Uhtred’s not sure why he even asks that. There is so much mystery surrounding the couple. Things he has yet to learn about them.

“It’s a few hours ride to the spot. I have food and supplies, and I figured we could spent the night there. It’s a special place I took Finan to one time.” Uhtred explains.

…months? What could Uhtred possibly have been working on for months? Cinaed thinks. He did sort of offer his husband’s help without him knowing, but the little smirk the Northman gives him tells him it’ll be okay. Or that he’ll be punished for it later. Or both.

“Don’t worry, darling. I’ll come. Just let me pack a few things…” Cinaed grins, squeezing Gunnar’s hand before letting him go and whistling for Luca.

“Uhtred, come on in.” The prince says, swinging their door open wider for the Dane.

I trust both of you can keep a secret?

Cinaed gives Gunnar a playful smile before looking back at Uhtred. “Oh, we are very, very good at it…” he almost snickers.

“I’ll pack us some food as well. Luca is um…” the prince looks down at their pup. Just don’t shift in front of Uhtred, stinker. Instead of finishing his sentence, the prince just moves to grab a pack and fill it with a few of their non-negotiables and some changes of clothes. Then, he heads to the kitchen to pack a few more supplies.

“Few hours ride?” Cinaed asks. “So what is this place to you? Tell us the story.” The prince smiles.

Uhtred is shaken from his musing when Cinaed asks about the special place he’s taking them to. “Oh, uh…it’s a special place I found as a child. When Bebbanburg was my home, before I lost it to my uncle. My father was a cruel man, and I think he only ever saw me as a nuisance. His attention was always focused on my older brother, the heir of Bebbanburg. I used to go out, deep into the forest, to get away from him. Play and explore for days before I would return home. He barely noticed my absence.

One day I found this special place. A small valley meadow surrounded by hills and large rocks. There is a hidden path to it, so I doubt anyone knows about it. A gorgeous waterfall is there and a crystal clear pool of water where I would splash and play for hours. Behind the waterfall is a small cave where I would sleep. It’s beautiful, almost like a fairytale…” Uhtred smiles wistfully as he thinks about his favorite place. It feels almost magical, and maybe that’s why he was so drawn to it.

After Cinaed gathers the supplies, they head outside where the horses and Hati are waiting. Uhtred watches as Gunnar pulls his brown stallion out of the stable with and another almost white horse. Uhtred watches curiously as Hati tucks his tail when Gunnar gets near, giving the warrior obedient eyes.

“Do you want to ride with me, baby?” Gunnar asks his husband as Cinaed clutches Luca to his chest. The Dane can see in the warrior’s eyes that he wants him to, and a soft smile comes to Uhtred’s face. You wouldn’t think it looking at Gunnar, cause he’s such a formidable warrior, but he has such tenderness when he looks into his husband’s eyes. It reminds Uhtred of him and Finan.

The Dane waits to tell the rest of the story about the first time he took Finan there, until they are on the road.

“I think we have everything we need.” The prince softly muses, following the two men outside. He carries Luca and whispers a few sweet words to Hati, if only to calm him a little in Gunnar’s presence… so that Uhtred hopefully won’t notice.

“Yes, please…” The prince purrs to his husband, taking Gunnar’s hand and swiftly mounting up once the packs are secured. He can’t really imagine being two feet or more from Gunnar ever again. Not before, and definitely not after they felt the fluttering of their pup in his belly.

“So, this place is already naturally beautiful…” Cinaed muses to Uhtred as they get on the road.

“… what exactly has taken you months, and now more effort to achieve, Lord?”

Honestly, he just wants to see the prince and Northman’s reaction, without spoiling the surprise. Uhtred and Gunnar’s horses ride side by side, with the pack horses following. The Dane smiles when Luca falls asleep in Cinaed’s arms, the prince whispering tender words in the pup’s ears. You would think the pup is their child with how doting they are to him, and perhaps he is, like a child to them.

“So, this place is special to you and Finan?” Gunnar softly asks as he shares a glance with the Dane. His arm is tenderly wrapped around Cinaed’s waist, fingers splayed on the prince’s stomach.

A bittersweet smile comes to the Dane’s face, remembering the events leading up to him taking his husband to the waterfall. “It was my attempt to show my husband how special he is to me…after almost losing him.”

“Losing him? Finan looks at you as if you’re the only person in the room.” Gunnar gives the Dane a confused look.

“I hurt him…in the worst possible way.” Uhtred shakes his head letting out a soft sigh. “I should have postponed our march to Bebbanburg after our wedding, given us more time as newlyweds. Enjoyed our honeymoon a little bit longer…

…but I was anxious to give him and our family a home. To give them Bebbanburg where they would all be safe.” Uhtred shares a glance with Gunnar and Cinaed, regret heavy in his eyes.

“I almost died from that battle, and I ripped out my husband’s heart in the process. If it wouldn’t have been for Revna saving me…” Uhtred shakes his head again. The thought of the heartbreak his husband felt, not knowing if he was going to live or die, kills him inside. They were supposed to be celebrating their victory after defeating Wihtgar, celebrating their new home. Instead, his husband kept vigil over him, hoping and praying he would wake up.

“After I woke up, all I wanted was to be close to my husband. To feel him…to…” touch him. Uhtred trails off as mistiness comes to his eyes and he quickly blinks it away. “I didn’t understand the pain Finan was in, seeing me like that. The fear he felt almost losing me. I said some hurtful things. I lashed out at him, because every time I tried to pull him close he begged distanced from me.

Finan was so upset with me…and rightfully so, he ordered the guardsmen to pack up his and Revna’s belongings. Said they were going to return to Ulaid, and leave me behind. Revna talked some sense into me, helped me to understand the pain Finan was in. I sought out my husband to make things right.” 

Uhtred lets out a soft chuckle. “He did not make it easy on me, but thankfully he accepted my apology. I told him I wanted to take him away. To someplace special to make it up to him. So I took him to my waterfall, and we spent a few days there just reconnecting. Reminding each other how much we love one another.”

Cinaed listens intently to Uhtred’s words, his heart empathizing instantly. To be quite honest, he doesn’t understand the polyamory. He’d rather die than see Gunnar’s hands on another. And if another put their hand on him, he’d sever it from their arm with his sword. Regardless, for Finan and Uhtred, it just seems to… work for them. The free love. And there’s nothing wrong with that, he supposes, because they are dedicated to each other within their little circle. When Uhtred mentions almost losing his life and the pain his father suffered for it, the prince feels Gunnar’s hold tighten around him, no doubt reliving the pain he himself felt when Cinaed fell.

“It was like a second honeymoon,” the prince muses with a beaming smile.

Gods, Finan is so stubborn. He literally almost left him?

“My father is really pig headed it seems. But… perhaps he just wanted to see you fight for him.” Cinaed smirks at Uhtred.

“You too seem to have a very special relationship. Best friends? I can see how that would quickly turn fervent, in the right circumstances.”

The Dane chuckles at Cinaed’s pig headed comment about his father, a smirk curling his lips. “It doesn’t help that I’m sometimes a bastard. It wasn’t the first argument we’ve had, but hopefully it was the last. Revna helps both of us see the fault in our ways when we are both being stubborn. She seems to be the only one that can talk sense into us.”

“I know it seems a bit unorthodox…Revna and I sharing Finan.” Uhtred shares a look with the Northman, understanding if he is not keen on the idea of his daughter’s husband being with another. “…but it works between us. I have the upmost respect for your daughter, she is a beautiful woman with a loving soul. We both balance Finan in different ways. I give him strength and she gives him tenderness and understanding. We both love him with all our hearts, and I would protect her with my life just as I would Finan. We are a family.”

Gunnar gives the Dane a nod. He doesn’t seem to look down on him, and Uhtred appreciates that. The Northman may not fully understand, Hel most people don’t, but Uhtred wouldn’t trade it for the world.

“Yes, best friends. We met on the Trader, when I was sold into slavery. I’m sure you’ve heard the stories of how your father ended up there.” Uhtred shares a knowing look with Cinaed. He’s sure everyone in Ulaid knows the story of the dark prince. “I was betrayed by someone I considered a friend, me and one of my men. If it hadn’t been for Finan, I don’t think I would have made it off that ship alive. He was my rock, the one who gave me strength. But it would be over a decade later before we shared our true feelings for one another.”

As they draw near the secret meadow, Uhtred leads Gunnar and Cinaed to a hidden path between two boulders. The trail is narrow and winding, but before too long they come out on the other side. A lush green meadow before them with the sound of rushing water from the waterfall. Uhtred smiles when the one room cabin he has been building comes into view. It’s nestled in-between some large trees, close to the pool of water from the waterfall. The main part left to finish is the roof, the rest of the cabin has been framed and boards put up for walls. A medium sized window on the front next to the door, and another window on the side facing the waterfall.

Uhtred nods towards his creation, proud of the work he has finished so far. “The roof needs completed, and finishing touches inside to make it feel cozy. Think your father will like it?” Uhtred looks at Cinaed with a playful smirk on his face.

“We would never dream of judging your situation, especially when it appears so healthy and full of love.” Cinaed assures Uhtred. He really likes him. He likes all of them, regardless of not being quite comfortable at the fortress yet.

“I’ve heard the stories. I was young, but… I was there.” Cinaed says, offering a placating smile. It’s not a time he likes to look back on. The ripple effect of those events lasted in Ulaid for years.

“… a decade?!” Cinaed repeats incredulously. How?! The prince can’t imagine that.

The prince’s words are quickly stifled when the cottage Uhtred has been building comes into view, nestled close to the beautiful waterfall and a pool of the clearest waters. It’s perfect. Serenity at its finest.

“Uhtred… of course,” Cinaed answers him when he asks if his father will like it. What’s better than a cottage far from anyone else to spend some fervent time with the person who holds your heart? The prince can definitely relate.

“He’ll love it!”

“Good…I’m glad to hear it. I want it to be special for Finan. A place all our own that we can escape to when we need some alone time.” Uhtred has been wanting to give this to Finan for a long time. Sure they have their chambers in the fortress where they can spend time together, but sometimes they both just need to get back to their roots. To have a chance to decompress from the chaos of being Lords of Bebbanburg. Not to mention the fond memories of them and the forest.

As they near the cottage, Uhtred points at a wagon off to the side. “Furniture and household furnishing are in the wagon. Lots of furs, since Finan always complains that he’s freezing.” Uhtred chuckles. “The rest of the lumber for the roof is behind the wagon, and some bales of thatch to keep the roof from leaking. We should have everything we need to finish it.”

“So, I was thinking Gunnar and I could work on finishing the roof, if you want to start unpacking the supplies for inside?” Uhtred looks at Cinaed. He’s sure the prince will want to keep a close eye on the pup to make sure he stays out of the way so he doesn’t get hurt.

Gunnar helps Cinaed and Luca down from the horse. Their pup suddenly full of energy after his long nap. As soon as Cinaed sets him down on the ground, Luca starts chasing a butterfly, barking at it as he tries to catch it.

Before Cinaed heads to the wagon to see what’s inside, Gunnar grabs his hand and pulls him back towards him. “Leave the heavy furniture and boxes for me and Uhtred to carry in…okay? I don’t want you to get hurt.” Gunnar gives his husband a stern but tender look as his eyes trail down to his stomach then back to the prince’s eyes in some unspoken communication. Uhtred gives the two a curious look, wondering what that is all about.

The Dane turns away when he sees Gunnar cup Cinaed’s cheek and pull him into a tender kiss, trying to be respectful and give the lover’s some privacy. Hati follows little Luca around, almost like a mother hen, and Uhtred can’t help but chuckle. At least Cinaed and Gunnar will have another set of eyes watching over their pup.

Uhtred grabs some work gloves from his saddle bags while Cinaed and Gunnar finish their moment together. When the Northman approaches him, Uhtred smiles. “Ready to get started?” To which Gunnar nods.

“Sure, Lord.” The prince says with an unaffected tone despite his inner thoughts. He chuckles when his pup instantly bolts from his arms, then his worrisome husband pulls him close and gives him those tender eyes. Cinaed tilts his head at him as he speaks in that low, gravelly voice.

Wait… does that mean Uhtred knows? Is that why he suggested I stay off the roof? Fuck.

“Baby… I’ll be fine. I promise. It’s so early on, right? And my body is resilient. Very much so. Yeah?” Cinaed purrs, giving Gunnar a tender little kiss as the Northman cups his cheek. There’s no way the Dane knows. Perhaps he just… senses something.

“Better get cracking…” Cinaed grins teasingly as he pulls away. “Roof won’t finish itself!”

As the prince moves for some of the inner workings of the cottage, he ties his hair back and decides to just remove his tunic. The summer sun is quite warm, and hell, he might even take a dip while the oh so strong men work.

“I love both of you…” Gunnar cups Cinaed cheek as he leans in to give his mate a tender kiss, his thumb softly caressing his skin. “…with every breath.”

A little smirk curls Gunnar’s lips when his husband tells him to get cracking. “You just wait…it’ll be my hand cracking over your arse for not telling me about this sooner.” The warrior raises his eyebrow at his mate teasingly. He gives Cinaed another deep kiss, before heading towards Uhtred to get started.

“Shit…did I piss him off? I didn’t mean to imply he couldn’t help with the roof…” Uhtred asks the Northman in a hushed tone, while he glances at Cinaed with a worried look.

Gunnar smirks at the worry in Uhtred’s voice for offending his mate. How does he say this without giving away Cinaed’s condition. The roof is the last place his mate should be. If he were to fall…Gunnar doesn’t even want to finish that thought, shaking his head.

“It’s fine, Uhtred…he knows you mean well.” Gunnar reassures the Dane.

“If you’re sure…” Uhtred looks into Gunnar’s icy blue eyes, not completely convinced he didn’t just make a huge blunder. “I’ll apologize to him…if he wants to—“

“No!” The Northman reaches out to stop Uhtred. “It’s better that he stays on the ground. Trust me.”

Not wanting to anger the Northman, Uhtred gives him a nod as they head to the woodpile. After moving the boards closer to the cottage, Uhtred fills a pouch on his waist with nails and grabs a hammer. He climbs the ladder to the roof, letting Gunnar hand him up one of the boards to nail in place. Having an extra set of hands makes the process go so much quicker and within a couple hours they have all the boards in place. Gunnar comes up and helps him finish nailing all the boards and then cut out a notch for the chimney for the hearth.

When the two men stop for a little break before adding the thatch, Gunnar and Uhtred both shed their sweaty tunics. Their muscles rippling in the sunlight. Tying a rope to one of the bundles of thatch, they hoist it onto the roof, before climbing up to spread it out. They do the same for the second bundle and the third, until the entire roof is covered.

Once they are finished, Uhtred is smiling like crazy. Excited that he is one step closer to giving his love a special gift. Gunnar spots Cinaed sitting in the grass playing with Hati and Luca, tossing a stick for them to chase after. The warrior stalks towards his mate, before pouncing on him, laying Cinaed down in the grass and attacking his neck with kisses and tickles from his beard until he is giggling and screeching.

Fuck, he loves him so much…he makes him the happiest man in the world.

The prince giggles at Gunnar’s teasing, thinking it perhaps wouldn’t be too unpleasant. He fucking loves when the Northman does that, after all.

“Yeah, yeah…” Cinaed brushes him off, before melting into his deep kiss. Their eyes linger on each other as they gradually pull away and Gunnar joins Uhtred. The prince gets to work unloading furs and supplies, gradually taking them inside and leaving them in an orderly fashion. He tries not to carry too much at a time or too quickly, for Gunnar and their pup’s sake, but it’s unnatural to do so. Once a significant amount of time has passed, Cinaed decides to take a little break. He sits in the shade and starts throwing sticks for Hati and Luca, chuckling at how excited it makes them.

Cinaed groans and takes a sip from his water skin, an uneasy feeling coming over him.

Fucking nauseous.

It only lasts a little while, and the shade and water helps, but damn. Then he is so joyously distracted as Gunnar pounces on him, tickling him relentlessly. Even with Uhtred nearby there’s no way the prince could contain his giggles.

“Aghhh stop it!”

The Northman relents when Cinaed touches his bite with his lips and gives him kisses, almost as if it calms the storm. He lays back in the grass and folds his hands behind his head.

“Wow. Is the roof done? That looks much better. Insulated… Uhtred, what’s next?” Cinaed asks the Dane, smiling at his obvious radiating happiness.

Letting out a breathy laugh, Gunnar relents his tickle assault on his husband when Cinaed kisses his mark. It’s madness how his mate can subdue him with a simple kiss on a scar, flooding his body with calm, among other sensations. Like his cock twitching in his trousers. The Northman takes in a deep breath trying to calm the sudden heat flowing through him.

“That’s not even fair…” he teases his mate with a whisper, before sitting back and taking in his gorgeous man. His hand reaches out of it’s own volition and settles softly on Cinaed’s belly. He really shouldn’t do that in Uhtred’s presence, but he just can’t help himself.

Uhtred grins taking in the display between the Northman and the prince. Seeing the love between them is palpable, and it warms his heart. He understands Finan’s protectiveness towards his son, and his hesitation letting the two of them be together, but if he just saw this side of them he would know, without a shred of doubt, they are meant to be together. Uhtred glances away, looking at the cottage again, while Cinaed and Gunnar have their moment. Not wanting to impose.

“Yes, the roof is done. Thank you, Gunnar. And thank you, Cinaed for helping to unload the wagon.” Uhtred grins in happiness. “Uh…I have some cupboards that need to be hung inside, I could use a hand with. Other than that, just finishing the top sections of the walls and getting everything put away.”

Gunnar stands up, then offers his hand to his husband to help him rise, then all three men head into the cottage. A large bed frame sits in one corner of the big room, and the bottom cabinets in the kitchen area have already been placed. A stone hearth sits in the center of one wall. Uhtred explains the arrangement of the furniture, the bed in one corner, a couch and rugs in front of the hearth, and table and chairs near the kitchen area. The Dane smiles as he pictures the cottage coming together.

“I had thought of ordering a bathing tub…but then with the beautiful waterfall and pool of water, I figured it wasn’t necessary.” Uhtred muses with a mischievous smile. “…besides, it gives me an excuse to warm Finan up.” The Dane softly snickers. He highly doubts he and Finan will be here in the winter, and in the summer the water outside is actually quite warm.

“Maybe we finish up these walls,” Uhtred points up at the section where the wall is supposed to meet the roof. “…then we can make some supper.”

“Excellent! You’re welcome!” Cinaed beams, taking Gunnar’s hand to help him stand. “Yes, let’s get it all squared away.”

As they enter the cottage, Cinaed admires it with his gaze, his eyes darting to all of the finer details and the parts that make it feel like a home. It might be a getaway, but it’s a home nonetheless with the effort the Dane has put into it. It’s actually quite beautiful, and the prince can’t believe that Uhtred did it all on his own up to this point. It probably took a long time.

“I think the water outside is plenty.” Cinaed adds, with a smirk. It’s definitely a great place to bathe. At first, the prince was feeling left out of the more masculine tasks, and now he just wants to sit and get comfy.

“Hurry, Gunnar, so I can have supper.” Cinaed says, grinning when the Northman raises his eyebrow. Gods, he loves that look.

“I’m kidding!” He snickers. “C’mon, I’ll help.”

Although, in Cinaed’s case, Gunnar highly doubts it would be a punishment, as lust darkens in his eyes. His mate would be so wet for him… Gunnar lets out a soft groan as he tries to shake the images from his mind, his cock already half hard. He quickly readjusts himself before turning his attention to the task at hand.

After heading back outside, Uhtred and Gunnar cut the boards to fit the open spots above the wall where it meets the roof. Just like before Gunnar hands up the boards after measuring and cutting them to fit, and Uhtred nails them in place. Together they quickly compete each side, fully enclosing the inside to the elements. When Uhtred steps off the ladder he looks up in wonderment, happy that the outside is finally finished, and one step closer to bringing his husband to see his surprise.

“Thank you again, Gunnar. It would have taken weeks for me to get this all done myself.” Uhtred gives the Northman a grateful smile.

Clapping Uhtred on the back, Gunnar returns his smile, proud that they were able to work together on this for Finan. “I’m happy to help. Despite everything in the past, I know Finan is a good man and he deserves this. Both of you do.”

“…now we better prepare some supper.” Gunnar grins as they head back inside. He finds Cinaed curled up on some furs taking a nap with Luca and Hati, and Gods, does his stomach flutter at the sight. In less than a couple months, their little bean will be curled up with them, and the Northman is so excited.

“Should we wake him?” Uhtred quietly asks.

Gunnar quickly bites back a growl, reminding himself where they are at and in who’s company. “No. Let him rest…he’ll wake when the food is ready.”

Uhtred pulls out some deer meat from one of his packs, and some vegetables, before cutting it all up and throwing it in a pot with some water. Gunnar starts a fire in the hearth, that Uhtred uses to cook the stew.

“I also have some bread and cheese to go with the stew…” Uhtred offers as he glances at the Northman.

But Gunnar only has eyes for Cinaed. Watching his little fox snuggle into the furs while he holds Luca close to him. A tender smile on the warrior’s face.

As the other men dive back in, Cinaed continues his unpacking and pulls out a few of Uhtred’s furs. The feel of them alone is very, very tempting.

Maybe just a cat nap…

The prince has never slept so much as he has in the past few days. It’s almost like his body is fending off an illness, but not quite. It’s a warmer feeling, like he’s fending for his little one, and his body needs extra rest to make up for it. And extra food. Plenty of extra food. As he spreads out a fur, he literally walks in a little circle as if he was in his fox form before laying down, Luca quickly joining him and Hati staying on their heels. Even with the hammering in the distance, Cinaed closes his eyes and he is out.

A while later, the prince’s nose twitches and flares at the smell of food before he even wakes. In fact, it’s exactly what wakes him. Cinaed opens his eyes slowly and gives his lover a sleepy smile as Gunnar stares down at him, a look in the prince’s eyes of pure adoration.

“Why are you staring at me? Creepy.” The prince grins.

“Careful, little fox…” Gunnar growls in a whisper. “Your bottom is going to be so sore by the time I’m done with you.” He leans in and captures Cinaed’s lips in a heated kiss. Biting his bottom lip as a taste of what’s to come if he continues being a smart mouth.

Even as he says it, Gunnar has to fight off his own arousal settling deep in his groin. His breaths getting heavier as Cinaed’s tantalizing scent sets over him. This is neither the time or place, with Uhtred only on the other side of the room.

“Behave…” Gunnar whispers in a low tone, before leading his husband to where Uhtred is dishing up the stew into bowls. He hands one to Cinaed, along with a hunk of bread before taking his own and leading them back over to the furs to sit and eat. Both of them share pieces with Luca, while Uhtred shares with Hati.

“After we finish eating, Cinaed and I will head to the waterfall and bathe. Would you mind keeping an eye on Luca?” The Northman asks the Dane.

Uhtred looks up with a teasing smile. He’d be blind not to see the heat and tension between the two lovers. Hel, they are still newlyweds. “I don’t mind. He and Hati seem to get along well. Now that the cottage is finished, except for the little stuff, we could call it a night and finish up in the morning before heading home.

There is a cave behind the waterfall, if you would like some privacy for the night. Finan and I slept there the last time we came here. Just take some extra furs with you, and anything else you need. I can watch over your pup tonight.” Uhtred offers as he tears off a chunk of bread before eating it.

Behave…

No!

“Yes, lover…” The prince purrs, almost inaudibly as he lets his eyes do the talking, a fiery challenge behind them. He follows Gunnar to their food and his attentions shift to Luca, as well as the growl in his belly. But when Gunnar tells Uhtred that they will be going to the river to bathe, the prince’s eyes shoot up from his bowl in surprise.

“We are? Oh…” the prince says, a little blush rising to his cheeks. There’s definitely no hiding this thing between them in front of Uhtred now. And then, the Lord of Bebbanburg seals his fate by offering them a cave, and offering to watch their child.

“Uhtred, that’s so kind, but um…” the prince says, then yelps a little when Gunnar grabs his thigh and pinches it between his large hand.

“… thank you. We’d love it.” He smirks, obediently relenting.

“This food is amazing, damn.”

Fuck, who’s the one actually being punished here. Him or me…

A low growl rumbles in his chest before he has a chance to stop it. Cinaed’s little smirk when he hears the sound, only fanning the flames. Gunnar pastes a smile on his face, hiding his internal turmoil, as he finishes eating his stew.

Uhtred’s offer of the cave for the night has Gunnar gloating inside. If Cinaed thinks he’s safe from punishment with the Dane nearby, he is sorely mistaken. The sound of the waterfall will muffle any moans or growls from the two of them as the Northman has his way with his mate. As soon as Cinaed says but, Gunnar squeezes his thigh to still his tongue.

“We greatly appreciate the offer Uhtred…I’m sure my husband and I will welcome the privacy.” The Northman returns his mate’s smirk. He almost busts out laughing when Cinaed turns their attention back to the food.

“Eat up, beloved…it’s going to be a long night.” Gunnar teases his lover with a challenging look in his eyes.

After they finish their food, Gunnar and Cinaed help Uhtred clean up the dishes, before gathering drying towels, a mountain of furs, and their essentials. Gunnar leans down and gives Luca a kiss on the top of his head while scratching under the pup’s chin.

“Be good for Uhtred. No sass and you go to bed when he says. I love you, and we’ll see you in the morning.” Luca lets out a little bark in answer, his eyes reflecting his obedience to his alpha. Gunnar gives Cinaed a moment to say his good nights as well.

“Thank you again, Uhtred.” Gunnar nods at the Dane before he ushers Cinaed out the door.

“Goodnight, baby… be good, okay?” Cinaed coos at their pup. “Love you darling. Be so good. We won’t be far.”

As Gunnar ushers him out the door, the prince almost disobediently stiffens before falling into stride. How could he?! Uhtred invited them here and they are abandoning him. Cinaed almost fumes a little at those thoughts before the captivating waterfall catches his attention, and the cave Uhtred mentioned. It’s very secluded, and comfortable.

“Gunnar… how dare you?!” The prince says once they’re safe away, but with a grin he can’t prevent. “Baby we are his guests, Jesus Christ…”

“If anything, I’m doing the Dane a service. I doubt your step-father wants to be kept up all night listening to your moans and screams.” A teasing smirk comes to the Northman’s face as he drops the heap of furs on the floor of the cave. The sound of the waterfall muffling any other sounds around them.

“Besides…I figured you might need to shift, and neither one of us wants to do that in front of Uhtred.” Gunnar rationalizes, giving his husband a loving look. Cinaed’s body is going through so many changes carrying their pup, not to mention any side effects he’s probably feeling being pregnant. Shifting in his fox form might be a welcome feeling, even for a little bit.

Feeling sweaty and dirty from all the work on the cottage, Gunnar quickly sheds his boots and trousers. He left his dirty tunic on the wagon earlier when he and Uhtred were working on the roof. The cool water from the pool sounds amazing right now. Not only that, but the thought of feeling his husband’s naked body against his has his cock already thickening.

“Ready for our bath?” Gunnar smirks at his mate, curious if he will come willingly, or if the warrior is going to have to throw him over his shoulder and wade in.

The prince narrows his eyes at his mate, his words making him feel both stubborn and aroused.

Moans and screams. The nerve of this man!

Cinaed looks down to hide his smile. Yes, he does need to shift. Gunnar is such an amazing mix of feral and tender towards him, and it makes his fucking heart soar. He always knows what he needs. But still, something about all of this makes him defiant. Perhaps he’s just testing his alpha for the first time… or it could be the rush of hormones his fox is experiencing.

“Agh, fine… I suppose.” The prince huffs, kicking off his own boots and throwing off his tunic.

“Oh, and I wouldn’t have kept Uhtred up with moans and screams. Perhaps I wouldn’t have let you that close to me, hm?”

But who the fuck am I kidding…

Holding out his hand, Gunnar leads Cinaed into the pool. The spray from the waterfall instantly coating them with moisture. The warrior lets out a soft sigh feeling the cool, refreshing water lapping at his skin. Rinsing the sweat and dirt from his body. He dunks his head under water for a moment getting his braids wet and cleaning the smudges from his face. He lathers soap in his hand washing himself before turning his attention to his mate. Despite Cinaed’s defiance today, he can see how much he is enjoying the warrior’s hands rubbing the suds all over his body.

Gunnar pays particular attention to the area between Cinaed’s legs. He tries to keep his touches casual, but when he gets close to his mate’s rim, he rubs a tantalizing finger over his entrance. He hears the muffled whimper his mate lets out, even if Cinaed tries to hide it. He does it again, with a wicked smile on his face.

“So you wouldn’t have let me close to you, hm?” The warrior teases as his mate tries to press his arse against the fingers teasing him. He lets one of his fingers slip inside, barely, before quickly withdrawing it. Smiling when he hears Cinaed’s sharp intake of breath, and the subsequent whine.

“So would you rather I not touch you?” Gunnar husks in a seductive tone as his fingers tease over his mate’s opening again. When Cinaed turns fiery eyes at him, Gunnar bites back a smirk.

“Hmm…I take that as a no?” Gunnar raises an eyebrow before claiming Cinaed’s lips in a heated kiss. Nibbling on his bottom lip. “If so, does that mean you’re going to take your punishment like a good boy?”

Gunnar’s fingers inevitably run across a very sensitive spot, and the prince tries to hide the way his body lit up like a flame to it. The Northman has a smug, wicked smile as Cinaed instinctively arches his hips to his hand.

He’s teasing me.

The prince’s gaze turns fiery and stubborn. Of course it’s a no!

When Gunnar kisses him, Cinaed moans into his mouth, like the Northman had been teasing him and edging him way past his tolerance. Then, he growls, deep under his breath as his amber eyes challenge his lover. He wants to be good… especially if it gets him such sweet release and proximity. But his fox seemingly has other ideas.

“So, not a good boy…” The warrior murmurs as he tilts his head at his mate, his own eyes turning icy at the challenge. Before Cinaed has a chance to react, Gunnar swoops him up in his arms and carries him to the furs in the cave. The fiery look in Cinaed’s eyes might deter a lesser man, but not his mate, not his alpha.

Laying his mate out on the furs, Cinaed’s growls get a little louder, and damn if Gunnar’s cock doesn’t get harder from the sound. His purrs and growls does something to the Northman’s stomach, causing it to flutter in delight anytime he hears them. Any sound his little fox makes makes him mad with lust.

“Is there something you need?” Gunnar husks as he rakes his teeth over the peaks of Cinaed’s chest before flicking each one with his tongue. His fingers tease down his mate’s chest, tracing the lines of his muscles before inching dangerously close to his love’s cock. He bypasses it to trail his fingers down Cinaed’s thighs, watching as goosebumps spread across his skin.

“Use your words, baby…”

Put me down!!

Grrrrr.

Cinaed thrashes a little as Gunnar carries him, growing more stubborn by the minute. He has no idea what’s gotten into him. It must be this place… his pup. Something. Things have grown increasingly animalistic between them, especially with Cinaed’s first full moon, but it’s usually only of pleasure. The prince has never growled at him like this, and the growls get a little louder as the Northman sets him down on the furs. Perhaps Gunnar was right… perhaps he needs to shift.

What’s gotten into me? …

As the Northman teases, bites, and licks at the peaks of his chest, Cinaed feels like he’ll explode. Something I need? Fuck. It’s almost painful, whatever part of him is gnawing at the surface. It has to be this switch of locations. It has to be. Why would he challenge his alpha like this? He fucking loves him.

“I need you to…agh…” the prince groans, closing his eyes. As his amber gaze flicks open again, his eyes filter over Gunnar’s impressive physique, all the way down to his hardening cock. Fuck, it looks so good. He just needs him to fuck this fight out of him, perhaps.

Cinaed suddenly arches up a little, nuzzling his cheek against the Northman’s, scenting him over and over as the growling in his chest is replaced by steady, rhythmic purrs.

“Need you inside me.” Cinaed purrs in his ear, before turning around on all fours for his mate.

A tender smile comes to Gunnar’s face when his mate starts scenting him, rubbing their cheeks together. Cinaed’s growls slowly shifting to purrs as his alpha scent starts to soothe him. The tingling of Gunnar’s core gets stronger when his mate purrs in his ear.

“Fuck, your so beautiful…” Gunnar husks when Cinaed shifts to all fours presenting himself for his alpha. His cock already rock hard and leaking.

Trailing his hand down Cinaed’s back, Gunnar shifts behind him. He can already smell his husband’s arousal heavy in the air before he even touches him. Placing a hand on each cheek, the warrior spreads him wider before leaning in to lick a wide strip over Cinaed’s rim. Gods, the taste of his wetness causing his cock to twitch.

“Mm, baby…so sweet.” Gunnar purrs before leaving a bite on Cinaed’s arse cheek. It satisfies his alpha seeing his mark on his mate. A claim that only he can make.

Lining his cock up at Cinaed’s entrance, Gunnar pauses as the head rests at his rim. Usually he opens his mate up with his fingers or his tongue, but something inside him tells him that his mate needs his cock more than anything. He slowly applies pressure until his cockhead breeches Cinaed’s ring of muscle, then he waits, giving him time to adjust.

“Tell me when you’re ready for more…” Gunnar softly rasps with a strangled breath. Fuck, he’s so tight…

Something about all of this is inherently controlled by his Fox form, and Cinaed has to bow to it. Perhaps just how Gunnar did in the beginning of his own shifts. His animal form won’t relent for anything in this circumstance besides the prospect of mating, and even the thought of it calms him. Perhaps because it’s such a natural act, in an unnatural place.

The prince’s eyes roll back and close when Gunnar licks his arse, his hips instantly shuddering at the sensation. And then, he bites him, and the pain feels so fucking good.

Please. Fuck.

Cinaed could beg for it, but Gunnar doesn’t make him. He sheaths his cock inside him so perfectly and lets the heavy weight of it settle while the prince starts fucking reeling.

“Gerðu það. Gefðu mér meira. Ég þarf meira…” Cinaed purrs, speaking to Gunnar in his native language in a last ditch attempt to ground him from whatever madness has been brought out in him. The prince kneels forward to rest his chest down, keeping his hips up for his lover as he rotates to look at him, giving him the most fervent fuck-me eyes he’s ever had.

“You like it when I mark you, don’t you?” The Northman purrs. When he’s half way inside his mate he smacks his arse with his palm, watching as his handprint blooms red on Cinaed’s fair skin. Gunnar breathes in a shuddering breath when his mate clenches around his cock, strangling his length. The pleasure mixed with pain reverberating through their pair bond.

The look in Cinaed’s eyes almost does him in. Those fuck-me eyes shredding what little control Gunnar has left. He grips Cinaed’s hips and drags him back against his cock, hard, burying himself inside him.

“Fuck baby…” he growls as his length throbs inside his lover. “Svona góður strákur…”

Gunnar forces himself to wait again, to let his mate adjust to being stretched wide around him, but when Cinaed eagerly wiggles his bottom against him, he can’t wait any longer. He pulls out, almost to the tip, then thrusts in hard. He does it again and again as the sounds of skin slapping against skin echoes in the cave.

“This is what you need…for your alpha to dominate you.” Gunnar growls as he thrusts in deep, his toes curling with each pass.

Fuck, exactly what I needed…

Gunnar is so tentative, as if he’s worried to hurt Cinaed or cause him any pain, but it’s been different ever since his first shift. The prince’s body accepts him instantly, the Northman’s words enough to have Cinaed leaking for him. Perhaps his fox has made him a little slutty.

“I fucking love it when you mark me.” The Prince purrs, hissing as Gunnar slaps his arse hard enough to make it sting. Fuck he loves that. It feels so good that he strangles his lover’s cock inside him, clenching and gripping him as Cinaed gives him that fervent gaze from below. With a strong grip the Northman pulls him back and sheathes himself fully, and it makes the Prince whimper.

“Deeper, baby. Make me feel it…” Cinaed mutters, rewarded with exactly that as his toes curl beneath him. He wants Gunnar to bite him again. To mark him on his arse again, to feel those rough hands again. A dark, damp, desolate cave and they are fucking like their lives depend on it, as they always do. Damn Gunnar and his beautiful physique and that pretty, gravelly voice. It’s irresistible.

“Fuck, baby…” the warrior growls as his husband pushes back against him. Gods, he just wants to devour Cinaed, place his marks all over his body. He smacks his mate’s other arse cheek, smiling at the red handprint flaring out. “Gods, your look so beautiful with my marks all over you. Completely and utterly mine.”

Moving his hips fervently, back and forth, Gunnar’s head rolls back as a deep moan rumbles from his chest. The scent of his mate wrapping around him gives him a heady feeling. The slick leaking out of his lover each time he pulls out is making him mad with hunger. Looking down, Gunnar watches as his cock slides in and out of his mate, filling him up with each pass.

Gathering some of Cinaed’s leaking wetness on his fingers, his guides them to his mate’s mouth. A smirk curling the warrior’s face when his husband doesn’t hesitate to take what he is offering. Cinaed’s tongue wraps around his fingers as they dive into his mouth, licking the wetness from his fingers. Fuck it’s so hot, and Gunnar’s cock twitches deep inside him as he buries himself to the hilt.

“See how good you taste, baby?” Gunnar purrs. “I could feast on you all night.

Cinaed jumps when the Northman’s strong hand lands on his arse again, something about the burning shock of it making his stomach flutter and his cock twitch. It’s another feral display of his husband’s need that makes him fucking ache, and more than that it makes him whine for more.

“Yes, yes, fuck…” the prince moans as Gunnar’s hips slap against him, each thrust hitting a very special spot. He’s still a little edgy— but if his alpha, his mate feels safe to be here doing this, he should too. Cinaed is instantly distracted from that thought when the Northman brings his fingers to his mouth. He obediently takes them between his lips and sucks them, twirling his tongue against the pads. He tastes himself and he groans, guttural and primal.

“Y-you’re the one who tastes good…” and smells good. Feels good. Fucking enrapturing.

“God, fuck. You’re going to drive me mad if you keep going like that…” the prince says with panted breaths.

“Mine…always mine…” Gunnar growls as a wave of possessiveness comes over him. Hauling Cinaed up with an arm wrapped around his chest and the hand on his love’s throat, the warrior nuzzles into his neck before bringing his lips to his for a ravaging kiss.

“I love driving you mad…” the Northman husks against Cinaed’s lips, his mate’s panted breaths stirring the fire inside of him.

Fuck, he’s squeezing me so tight…

Gunnar’s hand trails down Cinaed’s waist to take his bouncing cock, the tip dripping precum that he uses to stroke down his length. “So hard for me, baby…” the warrior purrs, loving how Cinaed’s cock pulses in his hand. The hitch in his husband’s breath going straight to Gunnar’s core.

“I love seeing you wrecked on my cock…the pleasure haze in your eyes, the way your body begs for everything I have to give you…it’s absolutely gorgeous. My little fox…” Gunnar nibbles on Cinaed’s bottom lip, holding him tight against him as his cock grinds deep.

When Gunnar’s hand traces down to his belly to grip his cock, the prince achingly arches back against him, his body shuddering as his breath hitches. The Northman strokes him so perfectly, in time with his thrusts and not gentle but also reverent, like he’s listening for every reaction. Just savagely enough to drive Cinaed crazy. As the Northman speaks so tenderly and fervently, the prince feels himself blush with rosy fire in his cheeks.

“I-I fucking love you,” Cinaed chokes out in a little purr. “I’m sorry for misbehaving. I won’t … fuck… do it again.”

The prince gives Gunnar another wet kiss, realizing he’s on the edge of a really strong peak. It’s been stronger since the conception of their pup, and Cinaed doesn’t pretend to know why. He just indulges in it.

“Just know, if you misbehave, you’ll be punished…” the warrior growls as his hips snap hard against his mate. He knows he’s asking for trouble by saying that. His love may misbehave on purpose, just to get this reaction out of him, but honestly he doesn’t mind. He loves his fiery little fox.

“Are you getting close for me?” Gunnar purrs in Cinaed’s ear before his lips trail down his neck. The warrior can already feel the tingling of his knot. Feel the base expanding as it starts catching on his husband’s rim. A couple more hard thrusts is all he can manage before it locks him inside. His hold on his mate tightening when he feels the shudder run through Cinaed.

Gunnar kisses Cinaed’s silvery scar, delighting in the moans that fall from his mouth. Just one little bite and he knows it will tip his mate over the edge. Cinaed’s cock is throbbing in his hand, and he can feel the trembling of his legs as he holds him against him. Gunnar’s eyes close for a moment letting the sensations envelope him. The wildflower and lavender scent, the feel of his skin against his, the way he’s gripping his cock so tight.

“Cum for me, Cinaed…let me feel you take what you need.” The warrior demands, drawing so close himself. His hand works the tip of his mate’s cock, giving him that extra friction to send him over the edge. His teeth rake against Cinaed's mark before sinking into the flesh.

“Yes, lover…” Cinaed says obediently, breathlessly. As if he wouldn’t love if Gunnar punished him. He cries out at his husband’s hard thrusts, hoping to the Gods that Uhtred didn’t hear it from afar. It was fucking loud. Typically, they shift positions a few times… but his lover mounted behind him like this drives the prince so feral with need. There’s no way he can keep it together for much longer as Gunnar’s cock practically fucks the cum out of him.

“Yes, I’m so fucking close… oh, god…” Cinaed whines, squeezing his eyes shut and furrowing his brows.

I’m going to cum so hard…

The Northman’s hold on his throat grows more relentless, and Cinaed tries not to scream as his lover’s cock starts to engorge and fill him up tighter. Gunnar’s hand moves expertly over the crown of his cock and makes his legs tremble, just before sinking his teeth into the silvery scar at the prince’s neck. Gunnar has the perfect awareness to slip his hand over the prince’s mouth as Cinaed simultaneously cums and takes his husband’s swollen knot inside him, releasing desperate, aching sounds that he denied he’d make earlier in the night.

“Me too, baby…so close.” Gunnar groans as he tries to keep it together just a little bit longer. His knot has fully engorged and the pressure around it has him reeling. As soon as Cinaed clenches down on him, he knows he’ll be done for. No holding back.

His hand flicks back and forth over the crown of Cinaed’s cock. His other hand tightens on his throat as his teeth sink into the tender flesh where his mark shimmers on his mate’s neck. Gunnar feels the moment Cinaed tightens against him, the clenching around his cock that drags a guttural groan from the warrior. Warmth fills his hand as Cinaed tips over the edge, and Gunnar cups his hand over the head of his cock to collect all of his spend. He moves his other hand over Cinaed’s mouth, muffling the aching sounds of his release that would otherwise reverberate against the cave walls.

Oh, and I wouldn’t have kept Uhtred up with moans and screams….

The warrior smiles to himself remembering Cinaed’s words of defiance. The pressure around his knot becomes too much, and Gunnar feels himself falling into that state of bliss only his mate can give him. Growls mixed with deep moans rip from his throat as he fills his mate with his seed. His abdomen quivers with the force of it, and his legs tremble as he holds on to Cinaed for dear life. White stars flash in his vision as his breaths turn ragged and heavy.

“Fuck, baby…Gods, you undo me.” He rasps as he clutches Cinaed tight to his body as his cock spasms inside him.

When the aftershocks finally pass, Gunnar gently lays Cinaed down on the furs, running his hand over his mate’s back in loving caresses. He licks the spend he gathered in his hand from his lover’s release, not wanting to waste a drop of his sweetness. Hovering over his husband, he tilts Cinaed’s face to his, giving him a ravishing kiss, letting him taste himself on his tongue.

“Such a good boy for me…” Gunnar husks in a deep gravely voice. “….you took your punishment so well.”

The warrior curls up behind his love, pulling Cinaed firmly against his chest as he nuzzles his nose into his neck. Breathing in their shared scents gives Gunnar a heady feeling as the afterglow of their release drums inside him.

“Well… you’re my alpha, so I’ll take whatever you give me.” The prince purrs, nuzzling their noses before closing his eyes and arching back into Gunnar’s touch. He hums in utter comfort and lust as his mate caresses him, the feeling of his knot inside him a still heavy reminder that he fucking loves. He takes the Northman’s hand and places it on his low belly.

“The flutters. Feel it?” Cinaed whispers in a love hazed tone. Gunnar won’t be able to feel it by touch alone, but by their pair bond surely.

“Your pup is tickling me.” The prince grins.

“I’ll give you anything you want, baby…all you have to do is ask.” Gunnar smirks at his love, before giving him a tender kiss. 

He loves how Cinaed arches into his touch as he caresses his back and sides and the soft hum he lets out. When his mate takes his hand and places it over his belly, a huge grin comes to the warrior’s face.

“Hmm…” Gunnar closes his eyes, concentrating on their pair bond, until he feels their little one moving. “Yes! I feel it…” the warrior softly chuckles. “…the flutters are getting stronger.”

“Our pup…” the Northman grins, delighted seeing the happiness in his mate’s eyes. “Do I need to scold them for tickling you?” Gunnar playfully raises his eyebrow. “Do you think their paws and tail are growing? Maybe their little ears…” he asks excitedly, his face beaming in happiness.

“How are you feeling, baby? Is there anything I can do for you to make you more comfortable?” Gunnar softly asks as he lovingly caresses his mate’s belly.

“Yes. Little paws and ears and… everything.” Cinaed purrs with a beaming smile.

“Oh baby, I feel so good now… earlier I was very nauseous and a little grumpy but I’m feeling better. I think you’ll have to be patient with me these next several weeks…”

Nuzzling their noses together again, the prince gives Gunnar another deep kiss before easing his whole weight back against him.

“Mm, actually… I’m freezing now.” Cinaed says, grabbing a fur and purring louder when Gunnar spreads it out over him. “Oh, and keep your hand there,” he says, laying his own hand over the Northman’s on his belly.

“They’ll know you’re watching them as they tickle me to death.” He snickers.

“I’ll be patient, baby. Just let me know when you’re not feeling well and I’ll do anything I can to alleviate your discomfort. I love you so much, and I want you to be happy and comfortable while you are giving us this amazing gift.” Gunnar purrs and he looks lovingly into Cinaed’s eyes.

“It is getting a little chill in here…” Gunnar smiles as he spreads the fur Cinaed grabbed over them. “…but I’ll keep you warm.”

When Cinaed places his hand over his on his belly, Gunnar feels his heart flutter. “I wouldn’t dream of moving it…” he softly reassures. It comes so naturally to him, wanting to touch the place Cinaed is carrying their pup. Almost like he is protecting something precious, which it very much is. His wolf howls in his chest wanting to guard their offspring.

Gunnar lets out a deep rumble of laughter, his heart giddy with joy when his mate says their pup is going to tickle him to death. Gods, it still seems unimaginable, his mate carrying his pup. But it’s real. He has felt it through the pair bond, the new life they created.

“Yes. I’ll be watching them. And when my knot goes down, I’ll share words with them. Remind them to let their faðir get some rest.” The warrior chuckles as he nuzzles into Cinaed cheek, scenting him before he peppers his cheek with kisses. “They can probably feel the warmth of my hand through your belly.”

“Do you want to rest for a little while and then shift when my knot releases us?” Gunnar softly asks as he snuggles Cinaed closer to him, tangling his legs with his.

For some reason, Gunnar’s words make the Prince want to cry. Not of sadness, but of sheer radiating happiness.

“So tender to me. I love you too…” Cinaed purrs, closing his eyes as his mate nuzzles into him under the fur. He grins when Gunnar bellows laughter, probably at the dramatic part of his statement. When the Northman scents him and leaves kisses on his cheek, the prince snickers and pinches Gunnar’s thigh with his hand under the furs.

“They can definitely feel you. This is only the second time the flutters have happened, and both have been when I’m by your side. Not that I stray far…” the prince grins again.

“Yes, I need to shift so badly. Until then…”

The prince rests back against his lover, tilting his head to look up at him. “… you’ve never told me of your family. Your father, and mother. Siblings. Will you tell me about them?” Cinaed purrs.

“They know when their sire is near…and they want to make their presence known.” Gunnar beams at his mate. He feels the connection between him and Cinaed getting stronger with each passing day, and now it’s extending to their little bean.

“We’ll shift, baby…run off some of the pent up energy stirring inside us.” Gunnar agrees as he kisses Cinaed’s curls. He has found himself needing to shift at least once a day, otherwise his wolf starts pacing inside him, clawing at his chest.

Gunnar feels warm spread through him as Cinaed rests against his chest. When he tilts his head up to him, with those gorgeous amber eyes looking deep into his, the warrior feels his heart melt. Gunnar wraps his arms snug around his husband.

“I haven’t, have I…” Gunnar muses. Honestly he hasn’t thought of his parents in a long time. It seems like a lifetime ago since they passed. “My father was an explorer and a warrior, much like I became at Ragnar’s side. My mother was a gentle soul. Revna often reminds me of her with her tenderness and care for others. They both passed when I was just a boy…eleven years old. During a raid of our village by a neighboring Jarl. Ragnar’s family took me in and raised me alongside Ragnar and Rollo.”

The prince feels the need to shift too, badly. Something about this recent conception has him nearly suffering to shift at least once a day, for some reason. Perhaps the energy of it is soothing to his pup, or it helps in its growth. The prince has no idea. Cinaed was inclined to ask about Gunnar’s parents since they themselves will soon be parents as well. They usually have talks like this late at night, wrapped in each other’s arms… and although Gunnar has mentioned much, he never really mentioned them.

As Cinaed closes his eyes and listens to Gunnar’s musing about his upbringing, he gets a punch straight in the chest and stomach at his words. Fuck, if only he could have known. To promote any sort of pain for his lover is unbearable.

“Baby… I’m so sorry. That sounds so painful. They didn’t… deserve that,” Cinaed says softly and shakes his head.

“You were so young. Gods, my heart hurts for you.”

“Ragnar and I were playing in the forest when the raid happened. Even though we were only boys, we did our best to protect the women and children that fled into the trees, with small axes and knives. Sigurd, Ragnar’s father, adopted me and welcomed me into his family. That is why Ragnar and I became so close. Like brothers.” Gunnar looks lovingly into his mate’s eyes, before brushing a stray strand of hair from his face.

“I don’t know if my father knew there was a wolf inside of him, that it had passed down from his father. He never spoke of it, and I never saw him shift.” Gunnar muses as he tries to think back to any time that his father’s wolf may have appeared, but he can’t remember ever seeing it. Maybe he repressed it, much like Finan does with his fae magic. Maybe it stayed dormant in him.

A tender smile comes to Gunnar’s face when his mate says his heart hurts for him. “Baby, it’s alright. I don’t mind you asking about them. It’s good to remember those we have lost. It keeps their memories alive. In a sense, I had two fathers, Tjörvi and Sigurd. And Ragnar’s mother always treated me with kindness and caring. After awhile I think she considered me like blood, like her true son.

…maybe that was why Rollo was so jealous of me.” Gunnar never really thought of that before, but maybe that’s why Rollo took him captive. Tried to break him so that he would be loyal to him, because he felt Gunnar had stolen something from him.

Maybe that’s how Asgeir feels about me. I had something he didn’t get to experience. The love of our father.

It has taken many years for Gunnar to come to terms with the idea that his father was unfaithful to his mother. Siring a son with another woman on one of his travels to the northwest of Norway. In a ship makers village. Making promises to her he could not or would not keep. And leaving behind a son that would never know him.

“… it’s good to honor their memory. Still… you’ve had a life of such pain, and that ends where you and I meet. Right here. Our family...” He says reverently, giving Gunnar a soft, slow kiss as his hand interlaces the fingers of the one holding his belly.

“… you know that you’re going to be so happy, right?” Cinaed grins at him. Gods, what a silly question. The Northman already beams every time they are together, and so does the prince. “I’ll make you so happy. I told you that months ago and I meant it.”

Leaning up to scent his cheek, the prince’s breath hitches when Gunnar rolls his hips into him, still feeling him deep and dominant inside him. They get lost in another kiss, and when they pull away, Cinaed sees something cross Gunnar’s icy blue eyes. He takes his cheek, caressing it with his thumb.

“Is there more?” He asks softly, wondering.

“I know you meant it, baby…and you have. Everything you have given me, your love, our pups, and our home, is more than I could have ever imagined. I feel like I can’t stop smiling when I’m with you, because you make me so happy.” Even now, Gunnar can’t wipe the smile off his face. It’s almost like it’s engrained in him, especially when he is near his love.

Cinaed’s scent envelopes him as his mate scents his cheek. Gods, he loves it when he does that, loves the flood of wildflowers and lavender that permeate around them. Gunnar can’t help himself when he rolls his hips against Cinaed, feeling himself locked deep and tight inside his mate. His knot still pulsing from the connection. He takes his husband in another passionate kiss, deep and full of hunger. He can’t get enough of him and the spell his mate puts over him. When they pull away, his earlier thoughts flash through his mind about his brother. The brother he has yet to claim.

When Cinaed asks him if there is more, Gunnar lets out a soft sigh. His mate can read him so well, can sense when something is troubling him.

“I supposedly have a brother…” Gunnar almost whispers. It’s the first time he has given voice to the notion. He sees the curious look in his mate’s eyes, so he continues, knowing that he can feel safe in sharing this with him.

“When I was in my mid twenties, a young man sought me out. A teenager by all accounts. He claimed that we shared a father. That we were brothers. But I didn’t believe him, because that would have meant my father was unfaithful to my mother. The thought of it crushed me. My father, sleeping with another woman when he was gone for weeks at a time.

I vehemently denied his claim. Didn’t want to see what was so plainly right before me. Piercing blue eyes, dark hair, the same chiseled jaw…” Gunnar softly shakes his head. “It was like looking at a younger version of my father. The evidence of his betrayal to my mother.”

“The young man came looking for a brother and for a pendant belonging to his father. One that his mother had told him was promised to him. A carved bone pendant of Njord’s ship, that Tjörvi wore during voyages. The pendant that I kept in my pocket to keep him close. In my heart, I knew the only way that young man would have known about the pendant was if it was true. My father spent time with his mother…intimately.”

“I was angry…I was livid.” Gunnar can still feel the emotions of that day racing through him. “I told him he has no brother. We fought…he split my lip, and I laid him on the ground. He still wouldn’t take back his claim, and for one  brief moment I could see my father so clearly in him.”

“I stormed off…but not before throwing the pendant in the dirt at his feet. I told him to take it, and do not return. He told me I could have kept it, and I threw back in his face that he said it was his.” Gunnar lets out a mirthless chuckle, “He had the stones to say, ‘No. I said I wanted something that belonged to our father. I wanted you to give it to me like a brother.’. As if…” Gunnar shakes his head.

“Now that I’m older, and after everything I’ve been through, I can’t help but regret that moment of turning him away. I have no idea where he is or if he’s even still alive…it haunts me.” Gunnar softly says, the regret shining in his eyes.

“And now…knowing what I am, I can’t help but wonder if he’s the same. If he has had to face being a werewolf all alone with no one to guide or help him…without his brother.”

“Now that you say that… he had to have been,” Cinaed says. “I mean, how could you not be related?”

Damn.

“I’m so sorry to hear that. It would have been nice for you to have a brother, one that you loved. But… it’s not always what it’s cracked up to be.”The prince smirks, thinking of Ronan, and then another he’s never mentioned before.

“I actually have an estranged brother too, but he’s um… a bastard. Younger than me. And you know… he’s not even a bastard, he’s a love child between my mother and some knight or something.” Cinaed furrows his brows and shakes his head.

“He was raised by my mother’s father, and is heir to her original homeland. And get this, baby… they’re our fucking rivals. Or were.”

Cinaed can see the shock in Gunnar’s eyes, probably because he knows his mother so well. He smiles and talks slowly, just enjoying speaking to him about it and hearing about his family history too.

“When Finan married my mother it was for an alliance between the Kingdoms, and it’s lasted thus far.

Anyway, he’s a nice kid… to me, anyway. But otherwise he is so solemn. So guarded. A perfect heir to the throne… because he doesn’t have the rebellious nature me or Ronan have. Mum loves him… from afar, mostly.”

“Yeah, it would have been nice to have a brother, if I would have just taken my head out of my arse…” Gunnar shakes his head at himself as a little smirk curls his lips.

“Hey, Ronan isn’t too bad…” the warrior can see what his mate is thinking by the look in his eyes as he lets out a soft chuckle. “…as long as he keeps the bow and arrow at home, and stops eavesdropping on other peoples conversations and intimate moments…Gods, when you say it like that, it really isn’t all that it’s cracked up to be.” Gunnar starts laughing.

When Cinaed mentions that he has a half-brother, Gunnar’s eyes widen in surprise. The bits and pieces he has heard about Ethne and Finan’s estrangement, he honestly can blame her for finding her own lover. Lagertha basically did the same to Ragnar, after he brought home another woman. Although Lagertha’s new husband was an arse, and he was proud of her for killing him.

“Your rivals?” Gunnar’s eyes widen again in shock as a little smile curls his lips. He loves listening to Cinaed talk and tell him stories about his homeland and family.

“That’s good that he’s nice to you and you two get along. What about Ronan? Does he have anything to do with your younger brother?” Gunnar has noticed that Ronan seems to keep his distance from Ethne, and he has openly claimed Revna as his mother.

“Your mother is a sweet woman, and I can see in her eyes how much she loves her children. Even the stubborn one…” Gunnar lets out a soft chuckle. 

“…I’m sure she’ll be a wonderful grandmother as well.” Gunnar beams as he gives his mate a kiss on the nose. His heart melting when Cinaed’s amber eyes look into his.

“All of us are perilous in our youths, aren’t we?” Cinaed says, giving the Northman a teasing gaze to which Gunnar pinches his side, as if he completely read his mind about still being young.

“Exactly. Ronan is insufferable,” Cinaed chuckles, not denying it one bit. His older brother is very lovable but also pretty maddening.

“And yes, we are technically rivals. But… I don’t know. He’s young, and he’s actually really sweet. I hope the title doesn’t go to his head…” the prince muses.

“Well… no, actually. Ronan has nothing to do with him, and I don’t think they’ve ever spoke two words to each other. Ronan and my mother just… don’t get along. He blames her for sending my father away. For letting it happen. And then… for having that love child, even though she never once neglected us for it. He’s hard on her, and… it’s irreparable. He just loves Finan too much. Perhaps one day, they’ll make peace, but...” Cinaed sighs.

“You aren’t the only one with some painful dynamics… I hope that’s a comfort, darling.” He says, nuzzling his nose into Gunnar’s cheek.

“Yeah. She’ll be great, hm? All of our family will be.” Cinaed says, giving the Northman a tender little gaze.

Even when he’s being a naughty boy…Gunnar smirks, remembering Cinaed’s attitude earlier.

“Yes, our family will be great. Our children will know the love of two parents that adore them, of their sister, their uncle, and grandparents. They will have everything we didn’t have when we were little. I will make sure of that.” Gunnar vows solemnly. His family is his whole world.

The Northman feels the moment his knot finally releases them, and he lets out a soft groan. Gods, he just wants to stay buried inside of his love all night. But, he did promise Cinaed a shift and a run. A chance to explore around the waterfall and surrounding forest. Besides, he loves how much stronger the lavender scent is when his mate is in his fox form. It make him want to tackle him to the ground and nuzzle his belly while his little fox purrs in that comforting sound.

Gunnar rolls his hips against his husband one last time before reluctantly withdrawing his softening cock. The little sound of disappointment Cinaed lets out make him smile, knowing that he isn’t the only one that hates when they separate.

“Are you ready to shift, baby? We can explore around the waterfall if you like…just stay close to me, since we are in unfamiliar territory.” Gunnar gives Cinaed a deep kiss, caressing his mate’s belly again before helping him up. At least they don’t have to remove their clothes since they have already done that part.

“Yes. I’ll stay close to you…” the prince purrs against Gunnar’s lips as they kiss. The Northman helps him up, and Cinaed begs a little distance as he shifts into his fox form. It’s completely cathartic… exactly what he needed, but he feels a little wild for some reason. He instantly sprints into a run, inwardly grinning as his husband stays on his heels. He stops by the waterfall and teases Gunnar with a few jumping motions, stepping on the wolf’s paws, before he nuzzles against him and drags his sleek body across the wolf.

So handsome! The prince chimes out. He loves seeing his husband in his wolf form. It’s as if the fox is as attracted as Cinaed is to Gunnar. The prince moves toward the waterfall, taking a clumsy drink of the water before sneezing.

He’s not really planning on riding out to the border, but he can’t tell Finan the real reason for his absence. At least not yet. Not until he finishes preparing his love’s surprise, which he is desperately hoping to have ready in time for their anniversary. One year ago he married his best-friend. The one who has held his heart since the first time he laid eyes on him on the Trader, and he wants to make this anniversary special. To make up for cutting their honeymoon short, and hurting his husband in the worse possible way.

“I promise, I’ll be careful…I’ll even take some men with me.” Uhtred gives his Irishman his best puppy dog eyes, knowing Finan can’t resist them.

“I’ll make it up to you when I return…” Uhtred purrs with a seductive look in his eyes and a playful smirk.

When Finan huffs out a sigh of resignation, Uhtred can’t help but smile. He pulls Finan into a heated kiss, already imagining the special night he has planned for them. “Watch over Lachlan for me?” Uhtred softly asks, with tenderness in his voice.

When Finan nods yes, the Dane breathes a sigh of relief. He only trusts Elle, Finan and Revna to watch over his little boy. “Thank you, baby. I love you so much.” Uhtred places another gentle kiss on Finan’s lips, feeling his Irishman’s hesitation in letting him go. Hel, he’s hesitant to let him go too. The temptation to drag him back into their chambers is so strong, but he has to get this done.

“Give the girls my love, and apologize to Tora for me for taking her friend.” Uhtred smirks. Hati has become more her companion than his, but he likes the extra protection the wolf offers him especially when he’s away from home.

Before he loses his resolve, Uhtred places another kiss on Finan’s palm before striding out of the Hall, calling for Hati to follow on his way out. He had asked the guardsmen to prepare Tintreg for him, and his stallion is already stomping his feet eager for the ride. Another horse is loaded with supplies he will need to finish his project.

Clicking at Tintreg, Uhtred leads the horse to the village, or rather the outskirts. He had asked Cinaed the night of the celebration for their wedding if he could steal his husband for a day or two to help him with his project. He hopes that is still alright. As he nears the cottage set off in the woods, a smile comes to his face. The lovebirds have had a week to enjoy their honeymoon, hopefully they are ready to venture out.

Dismounting his horse, Uhtred walks to the door and knocks. He stands there a little nervously. Gunnar is an imposing man, even to him, and he wouldn’t want to get on the Northman’s bad side. Uhtred’s brows furrow as he waits with Hati beside him.

Is that growling I hear…

@askuhtredragnarson

“Yeah, you better make it up to me. And you better be careful.” The Irishman pouts.

Why isn’t he asking me to go with him?

I’m always at your side…

Despite the past year being much more homemaking than Finan has ever been used to, he doesn’t necessarily miss too much of the strife they’ve been through in recent years. Traveling with Uhtred, though… he misses it. Being on the road, camping by rivers, hunting with his Lord and his brothers. To live in Bebbanburg is an actual dream come true, but sometimes the Irishman yearns for some of the happenings not so long ago. Stolen glances and touches included, not limited to actually jumping each other’s bones in the forest after that one lustful night.

Finan is suspicious. But perhaps Uhtred just wants some time on his own. With all the raucous of their household, that’s reasonable. Right?

The Irishman nods about Lachlan, and he nods about the girls. Of course he’d make sure everything would stay in order. Even if his sanity is walking out the door.

“Goodbye, husband. Return to me.” Finan drawls in a loving voice with sparkling dark eyes.

“If you bring someone else home, you know that I’ll kill them.” He smiles when Uhtred laughs at that.

***

As they lay upon the furs on the floor by the hearth, it’s a miracle that the lovers are clothed. In this moment they are, just taking a cat nap together on the floor with Luca.

“Hey,” Cinaed says in a teasing warning when Gunnar growls at the knock at the door. Then Luca barks, loudly.

“Hey!” The prince scolds them. It’s a familiar smell. It’s Uhtred, definitely. Cinaed’s newest senses don’t allow him to forget anything these days. He stands and swings the door open despite Gunnar’s growls.

“Lord Uhtred, hello.” The prince says with a smile. “What brings you all the way out here?”

Shit, did I already piss him off…

Uhtred clears his throat then returns his smile to Cinaed. The young man is absolutely glowing. Marriage suits him. “So, uh…remember when I asked if I could steal your husband away for a couple of days to help me finish a surprise for your father? I was kind of hoping it could be now. Our anniversary is only a few days away and the only way it’ll be ready in time is if I have a little help.”

When Gunnar approaches the door, he quirks an eyebrow at his husband, an almost playful look in his eyes despite the firmness of his features. Uhtred takes it as if maybe Cinaed hasn’t had a chance to mention it to the big Northman. He can’t blame him, he’s sure their focus has been entirely on each other since their wedding.

“Gunnar.” Uhtred gives the warrior a nod in greeting. “As I was saying…I was hoping you could come with me for a couple days and help me finish the surprise I’ve been working on for Finan. I’ve been working on it for the last few months and it’s so close to being done. I just need to have it completed by Lughnasadh.”

Uhtred watches as Gunnar protectively takes his husband’s hand as he looks first in Cinaed’s eyes and then his. “I would be happy to come help, but I won’t leave my husband behind. I only go if he goes too.” There is a little bit of a challenge in the Northman’s eyes, along with something else the Dane isn’t quite sure of. Maybe protectiveness, like he is guarding something precious.

“Fair enough…the more the merrier. Bring him, and your pup.” Uhtred’s smile turns into a smirk as he nods at Gunnar. “I trust both of you can keep a secret?” Uhtred’s not sure why he even asks that. There is so much mystery surrounding the couple. Things he has yet to learn about them.

“It’s a few hours ride to the spot. I have food and supplies, and I figured we could spent the night there. It’s a special place I took Finan to one time.” Uhtred explains.

…months? What could Uhtred possibly have been working on for months? Cinaed thinks. He did sort of offer his husband’s help without him knowing, but the little smirk the Northman gives him tells him it’ll be okay. Or that he’ll be punished for it later. Or both.

“Don’t worry, darling. I’ll come. Just let me pack a few things…” Cinaed grins, squeezing Gunnar’s hand before letting him go and whistling for Luca.

“Uhtred, come on in.” The prince says, swinging their door open wider for the Dane.

I trust both of you can keep a secret?

Cinaed gives Gunnar a playful smile before looking back at Uhtred. “Oh, we are very, very good at it…” he almost snickers.

“I’ll pack us some food as well. Luca is um…” the prince looks down at their pup. Just don’t shift in front of Uhtred, stinker. Instead of finishing his sentence, the prince just moves to grab a pack and fill it with a few of their non-negotiables and some changes of clothes. Then, he heads to the kitchen to pack a few more supplies.

“Few hours ride?” Cinaed asks. “So what is this place to you? Tell us the story.” The prince smiles.

Uhtred is shaken from his musing when Cinaed asks about the special place he’s taking them to. “Oh, uh…it’s a special place I found as a child. When Bebbanburg was my home, before I lost it to my uncle. My father was a cruel man, and I think he only ever saw me as a nuisance. His attention was always focused on my older brother, the heir of Bebbanburg. I used to go out, deep into the forest, to get away from him. Play and explore for days before I would return home. He barely noticed my absence.

One day I found this special place. A small valley meadow surrounded by hills and large rocks. There is a hidden path to it, so I doubt anyone knows about it. A gorgeous waterfall is there and a crystal clear pool of water where I would splash and play for hours. Behind the waterfall is a small cave where I would sleep. It’s beautiful, almost like a fairytale…” Uhtred smiles wistfully as he thinks about his favorite place. It feels almost magical, and maybe that’s why he was so drawn to it.

After Cinaed gathers the supplies, they head outside where the horses and Hati are waiting. Uhtred watches as Gunnar pulls his brown stallion out of the stable with and another almost white horse. Uhtred watches curiously as Hati tucks his tail when Gunnar gets near, giving the warrior obedient eyes.

“Do you want to ride with me, baby?” Gunnar asks his husband as Cinaed clutches Luca to his chest. The Dane can see in the warrior’s eyes that he wants him to, and a soft smile comes to Uhtred’s face. You wouldn’t think it looking at Gunnar, cause he’s such a formidable warrior, but he has such tenderness when he looks into his husband’s eyes. It reminds Uhtred of him and Finan.

The Dane waits to tell the rest of the story about the first time he took Finan there, until they are on the road.

“I think we have everything we need.” The prince softly muses, following the two men outside. He carries Luca and whispers a few sweet words to Hati, if only to calm him a little in Gunnar’s presence… so that Uhtred hopefully won’t notice.

“Yes, please…” The prince purrs to his husband, taking Gunnar’s hand and swiftly mounting up once the packs are secured. He can’t really imagine being two feet or more from Gunnar ever again. Not before, and definitely not after they felt the fluttering of their pup in his belly.

“So, this place is already naturally beautiful…” Cinaed muses to Uhtred as they get on the road.

“… what exactly has taken you months, and now more effort to achieve, Lord?”

Honestly, he just wants to see the prince and Northman’s reaction, without spoiling the surprise. Uhtred and Gunnar’s horses ride side by side, with the pack horses following. The Dane smiles when Luca falls asleep in Cinaed’s arms, the prince whispering tender words in the pup’s ears. You would think the pup is their child with how doting they are to him, and perhaps he is, like a child to them.

“So, this place is special to you and Finan?” Gunnar softly asks as he shares a glance with the Dane. His arm is tenderly wrapped around Cinaed’s waist, fingers splayed on the prince’s stomach.

A bittersweet smile comes to the Dane’s face, remembering the events leading up to him taking his husband to the waterfall. “It was my attempt to show my husband how special he is to me…after almost losing him.”

“Losing him? Finan looks at you as if you’re the only person in the room.” Gunnar gives the Dane a confused look.

“I hurt him…in the worst possible way.” Uhtred shakes his head letting out a soft sigh. “I should have postponed our march to Bebbanburg after our wedding, given us more time as newlyweds. Enjoyed our honeymoon a little bit longer…

…but I was anxious to give him and our family a home. To give them Bebbanburg where they would all be safe.” Uhtred shares a glance with Gunnar and Cinaed, regret heavy in his eyes.

“I almost died from that battle, and I ripped out my husband’s heart in the process. If it wouldn’t have been for Revna saving me…” Uhtred shakes his head again. The thought of the heartbreak his husband felt, not knowing if he was going to live or die, kills him inside. They were supposed to be celebrating their victory after defeating Wihtgar, celebrating their new home. Instead, his husband kept vigil over him, hoping and praying he would wake up.

“After I woke up, all I wanted was to be close to my husband. To feel him…to…” touch him. Uhtred trails off as mistiness comes to his eyes and he quickly blinks it away. “I didn’t understand the pain Finan was in, seeing me like that. The fear he felt almost losing me. I said some hurtful things. I lashed out at him, because every time I tried to pull him close he begged distanced from me.

Finan was so upset with me…and rightfully so, he ordered the guardsmen to pack up his and Revna’s belongings. Said they were going to return to Ulaid, and leave me behind. Revna talked some sense into me, helped me to understand the pain Finan was in. I sought out my husband to make things right.” 

Uhtred lets out a soft chuckle. “He did not make it easy on me, but thankfully he accepted my apology. I told him I wanted to take him away. To someplace special to make it up to him. So I took him to my waterfall, and we spent a few days there just reconnecting. Reminding each other how much we love one another.”

Cinaed listens intently to Uhtred’s words, his heart empathizing instantly. To be quite honest, he doesn’t understand the polyamory. He’d rather die than see Gunnar’s hands on another. And if another put their hand on him, he’d sever it from their arm with his sword. Regardless, for Finan and Uhtred, it just seems to… work for them. The free love. And there’s nothing wrong with that, he supposes, because they are dedicated to each other within their little circle. When Uhtred mentions almost losing his life and the pain his father suffered for it, the prince feels Gunnar’s hold tighten around him, no doubt reliving the pain he himself felt when Cinaed fell.

“It was like a second honeymoon,” the prince muses with a beaming smile.

Gods, Finan is so stubborn. He literally almost left him?

“My father is really pig headed it seems. But… perhaps he just wanted to see you fight for him.” Cinaed smirks at Uhtred.

“You too seem to have a very special relationship. Best friends? I can see how that would quickly turn fervent, in the right circumstances.”

The Dane chuckles at Cinaed’s pig headed comment about his father, a smirk curling his lips. “It doesn’t help that I’m sometimes a bastard. It wasn’t the first argument we’ve had, but hopefully it was the last. Revna helps both of us see the fault in our ways when we are both being stubborn. She seems to be the only one that can talk sense into us.”

“I know it seems a bit unorthodox…Revna and I sharing Finan.” Uhtred shares a look with the Northman, understanding if he is not keen on the idea of his daughter’s husband being with another. “…but it works between us. I have the upmost respect for your daughter, she is a beautiful woman with a loving soul. We both balance Finan in different ways. I give him strength and she gives him tenderness and understanding. We both love him with all our hearts, and I would protect her with my life just as I would Finan. We are a family.”

Gunnar gives the Dane a nod. He doesn’t seem to look down on him, and Uhtred appreciates that. The Northman may not fully understand, Hel most people don’t, but Uhtred wouldn’t trade it for the world.

“Yes, best friends. We met on the Trader, when I was sold into slavery. I’m sure you’ve heard the stories of how your father ended up there.” Uhtred shares a knowing look with Cinaed. He’s sure everyone in Ulaid knows the story of the dark prince. “I was betrayed by someone I considered a friend, me and one of my men. If it hadn’t been for Finan, I don’t think I would have made it off that ship alive. He was my rock, the one who gave me strength. But it would be over a decade later before we shared our true feelings for one another.”

As they draw near the secret meadow, Uhtred leads Gunnar and Cinaed to a hidden path between two boulders. The trail is narrow and winding, but before too long they come out on the other side. A lush green meadow before them with the sound of rushing water from the waterfall. Uhtred smiles when the one room cabin he has been building comes into view. It’s nestled in-between some large trees, close to the pool of water from the waterfall. The main part left to finish is the roof, the rest of the cabin has been framed and boards put up for walls. A medium sized window on the front next to the door, and another window on the side facing the waterfall.

Uhtred nods towards his creation, proud of the work he has finished so far. “The roof needs completed, and finishing touches inside to make it feel cozy. Think your father will like it?” Uhtred looks at Cinaed with a playful smirk on his face.

“We would never dream of judging your situation, especially when it appears so healthy and full of love.” Cinaed assures Uhtred. He really likes him. He likes all of them, regardless of not being quite comfortable at the fortress yet.

“I’ve heard the stories. I was young, but… I was there.” Cinaed says, offering a placating smile. It’s not a time he likes to look back on. The ripple effect of those events lasted in Ulaid for years.

“… a decade?!” Cinaed repeats incredulously. How?! The prince can’t imagine that.

The prince’s words are quickly stifled when the cottage Uhtred has been building comes into view, nestled close to the beautiful waterfall and a pool of the clearest waters. It’s perfect. Serenity at its finest.

“Uhtred… of course,” Cinaed answers him when he asks if his father will like it. What’s better than a cottage far from anyone else to spend some fervent time with the person who holds your heart? The prince can definitely relate.

“He’ll love it!”

“Good…I’m glad to hear it. I want it to be special for Finan. A place all our own that we can escape to when we need some alone time.” Uhtred has been wanting to give this to Finan for a long time. Sure they have their chambers in the fortress where they can spend time together, but sometimes they both just need to get back to their roots. To have a chance to decompress from the chaos of being Lords of Bebbanburg. Not to mention the fond memories of them and the forest.

As they near the cottage, Uhtred points at a wagon off to the side. “Furniture and household furnishing are in the wagon. Lots of furs, since Finan always complains that he’s freezing.” Uhtred chuckles. “The rest of the lumber for the roof is behind the wagon, and some bales of thatch to keep the roof from leaking. We should have everything we need to finish it.”

“So, I was thinking Gunnar and I could work on finishing the roof, if you want to start unpacking the supplies for inside?” Uhtred looks at Cinaed. He’s sure the prince will want to keep a close eye on the pup to make sure he stays out of the way so he doesn’t get hurt.

Gunnar helps Cinaed and Luca down from the horse. Their pup suddenly full of energy after his long nap. As soon as Cinaed sets him down on the ground, Luca starts chasing a butterfly, barking at it as he tries to catch it.

Before Cinaed heads to the wagon to see what’s inside, Gunnar grabs his hand and pulls him back towards him. “Leave the heavy furniture and boxes for me and Uhtred to carry in…okay? I don’t want you to get hurt.” Gunnar gives his husband a stern but tender look as his eyes trail down to his stomach then back to the prince’s eyes in some unspoken communication. Uhtred gives the two a curious look, wondering what that is all about.

The Dane turns away when he sees Gunnar cup Cinaed’s cheek and pull him into a tender kiss, trying to be respectful and give the lover’s some privacy. Hati follows little Luca around, almost like a mother hen, and Uhtred can’t help but chuckle. At least Cinaed and Gunnar will have another set of eyes watching over their pup.

Uhtred grabs some work gloves from his saddle bags while Cinaed and Gunnar finish their moment together. When the Northman approaches him, Uhtred smiles. “Ready to get started?” To which Gunnar nods.

“Sure, Lord.” The prince says with an unaffected tone despite his inner thoughts. He chuckles when his pup instantly bolts from his arms, then his worrisome husband pulls him close and gives him those tender eyes. Cinaed tilts his head at him as he speaks in that low, gravelly voice.

Wait… does that mean Uhtred knows? Is that why he suggested I stay off the roof? Fuck.

“Baby… I’ll be fine. I promise. It’s so early on, right? And my body is resilient. Very much so. Yeah?” Cinaed purrs, giving Gunnar a tender little kiss as the Northman cups his cheek. There’s no way the Dane knows. Perhaps he just… senses something.

“Better get cracking…” Cinaed grins teasingly as he pulls away. “Roof won’t finish itself!”

As the prince moves for some of the inner workings of the cottage, he ties his hair back and decides to just remove his tunic. The summer sun is quite warm, and hell, he might even take a dip while the oh so strong men work.

“I love both of you…” Gunnar cups Cinaed cheek as he leans in to give his mate a tender kiss, his thumb softly caressing his skin. “…with every breath.”

A little smirk curls Gunnar’s lips when his husband tells him to get cracking. “You just wait…it’ll be my hand cracking over your arse for not telling me about this sooner.” The warrior raises his eyebrow at his mate teasingly. He gives Cinaed another deep kiss, before heading towards Uhtred to get started.

“Shit…did I piss him off? I didn’t mean to imply he couldn’t help with the roof…” Uhtred asks the Northman in a hushed tone, while he glances at Cinaed with a worried look.

Gunnar smirks at the worry in Uhtred’s voice for offending his mate. How does he say this without giving away Cinaed’s condition. The roof is the last place his mate should be. If he were to fall…Gunnar doesn’t even want to finish that thought, shaking his head.

“It’s fine, Uhtred…he knows you mean well.” Gunnar reassures the Dane.

“If you’re sure…” Uhtred looks into Gunnar’s icy blue eyes, not completely convinced he didn’t just make a huge blunder. “I’ll apologize to him…if he wants to—“

“No!” The Northman reaches out to stop Uhtred. “It’s better that he stays on the ground. Trust me.”

Not wanting to anger the Northman, Uhtred gives him a nod as they head to the woodpile. After moving the boards closer to the cottage, Uhtred fills a pouch on his waist with nails and grabs a hammer. He climbs the ladder to the roof, letting Gunnar hand him up one of the boards to nail in place. Having an extra set of hands makes the process go so much quicker and within a couple hours they have all the boards in place. Gunnar comes up and helps him finish nailing all the boards and then cut out a notch for the chimney for the hearth.

When the two men stop for a little break before adding the thatch, Gunnar and Uhtred both shed their sweaty tunics. Their muscles rippling in the sunlight. Tying a rope to one of the bundles of thatch, they hoist it onto the roof, before climbing up to spread it out. They do the same for the second bundle and the third, until the entire roof is covered.

Once they are finished, Uhtred is smiling like crazy. Excited that he is one step closer to giving his love a special gift. Gunnar spots Cinaed sitting in the grass playing with Hati and Luca, tossing a stick for them to chase after. The warrior stalks towards his mate, before pouncing on him, laying Cinaed down in the grass and attacking his neck with kisses and tickles from his beard until he is giggling and screeching.

Fuck, he loves him so much…he makes him the happiest man in the world.

The prince giggles at Gunnar’s teasing, thinking it perhaps wouldn’t be too unpleasant. He fucking loves when the Northman does that, after all.

“Yeah, yeah…” Cinaed brushes him off, before melting into his deep kiss. Their eyes linger on each other as they gradually pull away and Gunnar joins Uhtred. The prince gets to work unloading furs and supplies, gradually taking them inside and leaving them in an orderly fashion. He tries not to carry too much at a time or too quickly, for Gunnar and their pup’s sake, but it’s unnatural to do so. Once a significant amount of time has passed, Cinaed decides to take a little break. He sits in the shade and starts throwing sticks for Hati and Luca, chuckling at how excited it makes them.

Cinaed groans and takes a sip from his water skin, an uneasy feeling coming over him.

Fucking nauseous.

It only lasts a little while, and the shade and water helps, but damn. Then he is so joyously distracted as Gunnar pounces on him, tickling him relentlessly. Even with Uhtred nearby there’s no way the prince could contain his giggles.

“Aghhh stop it!”

The Northman relents when Cinaed touches his bite with his lips and gives him kisses, almost as if it calms the storm. He lays back in the grass and folds his hands behind his head.

“Wow. Is the roof done? That looks much better. Insulated… Uhtred, what’s next?” Cinaed asks the Dane, smiling at his obvious radiating happiness.

Letting out a breathy laugh, Gunnar relents his tickle assault on his husband when Cinaed kisses his mark. It’s madness how his mate can subdue him with a simple kiss on a scar, flooding his body with calm, among other sensations. Like his cock twitching in his trousers. The Northman takes in a deep breath trying to calm the sudden heat flowing through him.

“That’s not even fair…” he teases his mate with a whisper, before sitting back and taking in his gorgeous man. His hand reaches out of it’s own volition and settles softly on Cinaed’s belly. He really shouldn’t do that in Uhtred’s presence, but he just can’t help himself.

Uhtred grins taking in the display between the Northman and the prince. Seeing the love between them is palpable, and it warms his heart. He understands Finan’s protectiveness towards his son, and his hesitation letting the two of them be together, but if he just saw this side of them he would know, without a shred of doubt, they are meant to be together. Uhtred glances away, looking at the cottage again, while Cinaed and Gunnar have their moment. Not wanting to impose.

“Yes, the roof is done. Thank you, Gunnar. And thank you, Cinaed for helping to unload the wagon.” Uhtred grins in happiness. “Uh…I have some cupboards that need to be hung inside, I could use a hand with. Other than that, just finishing the top sections of the walls and getting everything put away.”

Gunnar stands up, then offers his hand to his husband to help him rise, then all three men head into the cottage. A large bed frame sits in one corner of the big room, and the bottom cabinets in the kitchen area have already been placed. A stone hearth sits in the center of one wall. Uhtred explains the arrangement of the furniture, the bed in one corner, a couch and rugs in front of the hearth, and table and chairs near the kitchen area. The Dane smiles as he pictures the cottage coming together.

“I had thought of ordering a bathing tub…but then with the beautiful waterfall and pool of water, I figured it wasn’t necessary.” Uhtred muses with a mischievous smile. “…besides, it gives me an excuse to warm Finan up.” The Dane softly snickers. He highly doubts he and Finan will be here in the winter, and in the summer the water outside is actually quite warm.

“Maybe we finish up these walls,” Uhtred points up at the section where the wall is supposed to meet the roof. “…then we can make some supper.”

“Excellent! You’re welcome!” Cinaed beams, taking Gunnar’s hand to help him stand. “Yes, let’s get it all squared away.”

As they enter the cottage, Cinaed admires it with his gaze, his eyes darting to all of the finer details and the parts that make it feel like a home. It might be a getaway, but it’s a home nonetheless with the effort the Dane has put into it. It’s actually quite beautiful, and the prince can’t believe that Uhtred did it all on his own up to this point. It probably took a long time.

“I think the water outside is plenty.” Cinaed adds, with a smirk. It’s definitely a great place to bathe. At first, the prince was feeling left out of the more masculine tasks, and now he just wants to sit and get comfy.

“Hurry, Gunnar, so I can have supper.” Cinaed says, grinning when the Northman raises his eyebrow. Gods, he loves that look.

“I’m kidding!” He snickers. “C’mon, I’ll help.”

Although, in Cinaed’s case, Gunnar highly doubts it would be a punishment, as lust darkens in his eyes. His mate would be so wet for him… Gunnar lets out a soft groan as he tries to shake the images from his mind, his cock already half hard. He quickly readjusts himself before turning his attention to the task at hand.

After heading back outside, Uhtred and Gunnar cut the boards to fit the open spots above the wall where it meets the roof. Just like before Gunnar hands up the boards after measuring and cutting them to fit, and Uhtred nails them in place. Together they quickly compete each side, fully enclosing the inside to the elements. When Uhtred steps off the ladder he looks up in wonderment, happy that the outside is finally finished, and one step closer to bringing his husband to see his surprise.

“Thank you again, Gunnar. It would have taken weeks for me to get this all done myself.” Uhtred gives the Northman a grateful smile.

Clapping Uhtred on the back, Gunnar returns his smile, proud that they were able to work together on this for Finan. “I’m happy to help. Despite everything in the past, I know Finan is a good man and he deserves this. Both of you do.”

“…now we better prepare some supper.” Gunnar grins as they head back inside. He finds Cinaed curled up on some furs taking a nap with Luca and Hati, and Gods, does his stomach flutter at the sight. In less than a couple months, their little bean will be curled up with them, and the Northman is so excited.

“Should we wake him?” Uhtred quietly asks.

Gunnar quickly bites back a growl, reminding himself where they are at and in who’s company. “No. Let him rest…he’ll wake when the food is ready.”

Uhtred pulls out some deer meat from one of his packs, and some vegetables, before cutting it all up and throwing it in a pot with some water. Gunnar starts a fire in the hearth, that Uhtred uses to cook the stew.

“I also have some bread and cheese to go with the stew…” Uhtred offers as he glances at the Northman.

But Gunnar only has eyes for Cinaed. Watching his little fox snuggle into the furs while he holds Luca close to him. A tender smile on the warrior’s face.

As the other men dive back in, Cinaed continues his unpacking and pulls out a few of Uhtred’s furs. The feel of them alone is very, very tempting.

Maybe just a cat nap…

The prince has never slept so much as he has in the past few days. It’s almost like his body is fending off an illness, but not quite. It’s a warmer feeling, like he’s fending for his little one, and his body needs extra rest to make up for it. And extra food. Plenty of extra food. As he spreads out a fur, he literally walks in a little circle as if he was in his fox form before laying down, Luca quickly joining him and Hati staying on their heels. Even with the hammering in the distance, Cinaed closes his eyes and he is out.

A while later, the prince’s nose twitches and flares at the smell of food before he even wakes. In fact, it’s exactly what wakes him. Cinaed opens his eyes slowly and gives his lover a sleepy smile as Gunnar stares down at him, a look in the prince’s eyes of pure adoration.

“Why are you staring at me? Creepy.” The prince grins.

“Careful, little fox…” Gunnar growls in a whisper. “Your bottom is going to be so sore by the time I’m done with you.” He leans in and captures Cinaed’s lips in a heated kiss. Biting his bottom lip as a taste of what’s to come if he continues being a smart mouth.

Even as he says it, Gunnar has to fight off his own arousal settling deep in his groin. His breaths getting heavier as Cinaed’s tantalizing scent sets over him. This is neither the time or place, with Uhtred only on the other side of the room.

“Behave…” Gunnar whispers in a low tone, before leading his husband to where Uhtred is dishing up the stew into bowls. He hands one to Cinaed, along with a hunk of bread before taking his own and leading them back over to the furs to sit and eat. Both of them share pieces with Luca, while Uhtred shares with Hati.

“After we finish eating, Cinaed and I will head to the waterfall and bathe. Would you mind keeping an eye on Luca?” The Northman asks the Dane.

Uhtred looks up with a teasing smile. He’d be blind not to see the heat and tension between the two lovers. Hel, they are still newlyweds. “I don’t mind. He and Hati seem to get along well. Now that the cottage is finished, except for the little stuff, we could call it a night and finish up in the morning before heading home.

There is a cave behind the waterfall, if you would like some privacy for the night. Finan and I slept there the last time we came here. Just take some extra furs with you, and anything else you need. I can watch over your pup tonight.” Uhtred offers as he tears off a chunk of bread before eating it.

Behave…

No!

“Yes, lover…” The prince purrs, almost inaudibly as he lets his eyes do the talking, a fiery challenge behind them. He follows Gunnar to their food and his attentions shift to Luca, as well as the growl in his belly. But when Gunnar tells Uhtred that they will be going to the river to bathe, the prince’s eyes shoot up from his bowl in surprise.

“We are? Oh…” the prince says, a little blush rising to his cheeks. There’s definitely no hiding this thing between them in front of Uhtred now. And then, the Lord of Bebbanburg seals his fate by offering them a cave, and offering to watch their child.

“Uhtred, that’s so kind, but um…” the prince says, then yelps a little when Gunnar grabs his thigh and pinches it between his large hand.

“… thank you. We’d love it.” He smirks, obediently relenting.

“This food is amazing, damn.”

Fuck, who’s the one actually being punished here. Him or me…

A low growl rumbles in his chest before he has a chance to stop it. Cinaed’s little smirk when he hears the sound, only fanning the flames. Gunnar pastes a smile on his face, hiding his internal turmoil, as he finishes eating his stew.

Uhtred’s offer of the cave for the night has Gunnar gloating inside. If Cinaed thinks he’s safe from punishment with the Dane nearby, he is sorely mistaken. The sound of the waterfall will muffle any moans or growls from the two of them as the Northman has his way with his mate. As soon as Cinaed says but, Gunnar squeezes his thigh to still his tongue.

“We greatly appreciate the offer Uhtred…I’m sure my husband and I will welcome the privacy.” The Northman returns his mate’s smirk. He almost busts out laughing when Cinaed turns their attention back to the food.

“Eat up, beloved…it’s going to be a long night.” Gunnar teases his lover with a challenging look in his eyes.

After they finish their food, Gunnar and Cinaed help Uhtred clean up the dishes, before gathering drying towels, a mountain of furs, and their essentials. Gunnar leans down and gives Luca a kiss on the top of his head while scratching under the pup’s chin.

“Be good for Uhtred. No sass and you go to bed when he says. I love you, and we’ll see you in the morning.” Luca lets out a little bark in answer, his eyes reflecting his obedience to his alpha. Gunnar gives Cinaed a moment to say his good nights as well.

“Thank you again, Uhtred.” Gunnar nods at the Dane before he ushers Cinaed out the door.

“Goodnight, baby… be good, okay?” Cinaed coos at their pup. “Love you darling. Be so good. We won’t be far.”

As Gunnar ushers him out the door, the prince almost disobediently stiffens before falling into stride. How could he?! Uhtred invited them here and they are abandoning him. Cinaed almost fumes a little at those thoughts before the captivating waterfall catches his attention, and the cave Uhtred mentioned. It’s very secluded, and comfortable.

“Gunnar… how dare you?!” The prince says once they’re safe away, but with a grin he can’t prevent. “Baby we are his guests, Jesus Christ…”

“If anything, I’m doing the Dane a service. I doubt your step-father wants to be kept up all night listening to your moans and screams.” A teasing smirk comes to the Northman’s face as he drops the heap of furs on the floor of the cave. The sound of the waterfall muffling any other sounds around them.

“Besides…I figured you might need to shift, and neither one of us wants to do that in front of Uhtred.” Gunnar rationalizes, giving his husband a loving look. Cinaed’s body is going through so many changes carrying their pup, not to mention any side effects he’s probably feeling being pregnant. Shifting in his fox form might be a welcome feeling, even for a little bit.

Feeling sweaty and dirty from all the work on the cottage, Gunnar quickly sheds his boots and trousers. He left his dirty tunic on the wagon earlier when he and Uhtred were working on the roof. The cool water from the pool sounds amazing right now. Not only that, but the thought of feeling his husband’s naked body against his has his cock already thickening.

“Ready for our bath?” Gunnar smirks at his mate, curious if he will come willingly, or if the warrior is going to have to throw him over his shoulder and wade in.