We return to the flat desertscape that spans in all directions with the slightest hint of snowcapped mountains to the west. The Cascades. That’s where we’re headed. We’ll eventually have to go up and over Snoqualmie Pass to get to Seattle.
Though we make good time on the flat trail, Zach hobbles along, getting slower by the minute. We pause to rest, and I take a moment to inspect his wound. A scab has formed all around the cut, but the redness has increased, and there’s a bit of swelling. When I press the area, Zach winces. And when I release my finger, a noticeable white indentation remains before the blood flows back.
“How does it look?” Zach asks.
“It’s swollen. It might be a little infected. How’s it feeling?”
“It’s been better. But I’m managing.”
“We’re not far from Ellensburg. I don’t love going through cities, but we may need to scavenge a drugstore for antibiotics.”
“You think it’ll be safe?” Zach’s brow crinkles with worry.
“We’ll have to be careful. But let’s take it easy on your leg and search for a place to camp for the night. We’ll head to Ellensburg tomorrow when we’re fresh.”
We continue down the trail until we find a small grove of trees with cover from the sun. I lay the sleeping bag on soft sandy soil in the shade and have Zach rest while I set up camp. Then I lie down next to him.
We both lounge with our heads propped on our arms, looking into each other’s eyes. Even travel weary and his hair a complete mess, I still find Zach irresistible. He looks at me with a soft smile. I care for him so much; it makes me ache inside that I’ve caused him pain. I’d do anything to make it up to him.
“Thanks for the help at the tunnel,” Zach says. “And for rescuing me back at the dam. I was so upset that I might not have thanked you properly. You risked your life to save me, and for that, I’m grateful.”
“Zach, I’ll do anything to keep you safe. You have to know how deeply I care.” My emotions are building, and I choke out the words. “I’m so sorry for leaving. But no matter how stupid I am, I’ll always come back for you. No matter what.”
Zach’s smile widens, and he puts his hand on my shoulder. “Aiden?”
“Yes?” I say, chin trembling.
“I forgive you.”
Relief. “You do?”
“Does this answer your question?” Zach scoots over and wraps his arm around me. As our bodies press together, I can barely contain my joy.
Then he kisses me.
Our mouths open, and Zach explores with his tongue as tingles spread from head to toe. But we go slow, with near misses and the occasional light contact, like a game of cat and mouse. With each touch of the tongue, a wave of pleasure.
Zach runs his hand down my chest and then along my back, sending shivers through me. The light moan from my lips makes his kisses more insistent. I follow Zach’s lead and explore his body with my hand, across his lean shoulders, down his rib cage, and back up to his chest. His muscles flex instinctively, and I squeeze them, feeling their shape.
Craving his bare skin, I start to untuck his shirt. Then I pause. “Is this okay?” I want this so much, but Zach has to be ready.
“It issookay. You have no idea how long I’ve been thinking about this.”
I laugh from pure happiness.
I slip my hand under his shirt and along his side. He shudders at my touch and lets out a little giggle.
“Does that tickle?” I smile.
“A little.” He shudders again and laughs. “It’s been a while. Everything’s a little extra sensitive.”
I move my hand from his side, exploring his abs, then continuing upward. Zach’s skin is soft and warm. My touch is a gentle caress, like he’s something precious I could break.
I go to my knees and guide Zach to do the same so we face each other. I take off his shirt, and he does the same to me. For a moment, I take in his half-naked body. His chest is smooth and lean. I run my fingers along it, and he shivers again. I lightly pinch his nipple, and he lets out a gasp.
The hunger in his eyes ignites a burning desire as he brushes his fingers along my chest. Little ripples of delight pulse through me with his hands on my skin. It’s been a while for me too.
We join in a hungry kiss, with passion building in each of us. With my hands free to do what they want, I reach for his ass. Zach grabs my ass, too, and we press our bodies together, kissing deeply. We strip off the rest of our clothes with a ferocious intensity. I stop for a moment to take him in. He’s beautiful. The heat of his breath, the softness of his skin, and the scent of his salty sweat consumes my senses.
