Something To Prove

Something To Prove

Posted: June 16, 2006
Title: Something to Prove
Author: Elohir Mornedhel
Type: RPS
Characters: Orlando/Viggo
Rating: NC-17
Disclaimer: I don't know them, as much as I would like to. I just like writing about them so don't sue.
Warnings: Real Person slash, angst
Beta: Widdershin
Author's Notes: This came about when I read some stories where Orli wasn't treated very fairly as a character. I know its just one author's pov but it made me made and I sat down and wrote this.

Summary: Orlando has something to prove.

*****

Chapter 1

Orli gritted his teeth as Sean stretched out a hand and ruffled his blond locks.

"Don't worry mate. You're new, you'll get it soon enough," the older Brit said before walking away to the makeup trailer. He turned his head and looked at Ian. The other man gave him an indulgent smile and everyone else had their 'let's encourage the newbie' faces on.

It's a good thing they had the next couple of days off because if he had to listen to one more person tell him how young he was or how new and inexperienced, he would do one of two things. Either scream his bloody head off or start throwing punches.

Before he could stomp over to the makeup trailer, he felt a touch on his arm. He turned to look into Viggo's eyes and that made things even worse. Pity. He hated that emotion. He'd seen way too much of it when in the hospital. Too many people assumed he would just give up, just let fate hand him a shit deal. He'd proven them wrong and he'd prove these people wrong too.

Shaking off Viggo's hand, he stepped away from the older man.

"'I'm fine," he said.

"No you're not," Viggo whispered as he watched the young actor walk away. He could tell something was wrong with the young Brit and only wanted to help him. With a sigh, he headed to the makeup trailer only to see Orlando frozen at the doorway. He moved closer and heard every word the young actor could hear.

"Drives me nutters Orlando does,"

"How many times did PJ have to reshoot that scene?"

"Too many. Kid kept missing his mark,"

"That's what ya get for taking them right out of school. No clue on what it's really like."

"Complete wanker," someone muttered.

He noted the tense way Orlando held his body, but before he could say anything, the young man bolted away from the trailer. Viggo gritted his teeth and continued on his way. He had a few words to say to someone.

"He was not that bad," Ian's voice drifted from his far corner. "The boy is young and inexperienced yes, but so were all of us at one point. We are seasoned veterans and he has been thrown among the wolves as it were. We cannot expect him to know all that we know. What he lacks, he makes up for in enthusiasm and determination. Orlando tries his best and we must give him time and the benefit of our experience, not our anger and frustration."

"Yeah okay whatever Gandalf." Elijah snorted.

"Bit late for that," Viggo commented as he stepped inside the trailer.

"Viggo," Sean smiled. "Didn't see you there, mate."

"I bet you didn't know Orlando was right outside the door either did you?" Viggo said.

"Shit," someone muttered.

"He heard every word, more than I did at any rate. It was enough though."

"So what do we do?" Dom asked.

"Nothing," came a soft voice from the doorway. Orlando stood there with a dark look on his face. "You do nothing but your jobs and leave me to do mine."

He sat down in a chair, heedless of the tension now filling the room. Silence reigned as he waited patiently for the makeup artist to remove the hair and the ears. Leaning forward, he took out the contact lenses. Once he was done he calmly rose and left.

He went home to his house in New Zealand with his scripts and several cases of beer. It was going to be no one but him, the script and occasionally the TV. He wasn't going to speak to anyone. He wasn't going to go to any clubs or parties. He was going to devote his time to learning his lines. He was going to run through every scene he'd fucked up and he was going to get this right.

They were coming up on the Rohan scenes. Orlando glanced over at his brace and sighed. He had to wear it for the fight scenes and he was going to have to wear it when they put him on the horses. Luckily, it didn't hinder his movement too much. It was the price for walking again. That and the horrid scar down the middle of his back.

The first phone call came a couple hours later and through instinct, he picked up the phone even though his eyes were still trained on his script. Legolas didn't speak much but what he said was usually very poignant. Orlando wanted to capture the intensity of the elf's emotions; he wanted it to carry in his voice and his eyes. He wanted to FEEL Legolas. He just had to figure out how to switch them on, how to BECOME Legolas as soon as Peter said 'action'.

"'Lo?" he said absently into the phone.

"Orli, its Sean," the older Brit's voice came over the line.

"Oy Sean," Orlando said, his body stiffening.

"The guys and I are going out to the pub. Do ye want ta join us?" Sean asked.

"No thanks," Orlando said. "I have a lot of studying to do. Thanks for the offer though."

If there was one thing his mother had drilled into his head, it was manners. Therefore, he politely refused Sean's offer and the next ten from the other cast members. He had no desire to hang out with them and listen to their 'helpful advice'. It got to the point that he just stopped answering the phone and let the machine get it. Then he turned the ringer off and the volume on the answering machine down so he couldn't hear it.

He found himself unable to concentrate on the script so he turned on the TV and grabbed a beer. The first one slid down his throat, but he found it tasteless. Obviously, this was not going to be his poison for the night.

Rummaging through his bar, he found a couple bottles of stuff and proceeded to get completely plastered. There was something to be said for drinking alone. No one would see you make a fool of yourself. He did enough of that on the set when he was sober. What had he been thinking, accepting this role fresh out of school? It was too big for him. How could he compare to such unbelievable actors as Ian McKellan, Ian Holm and Christopher Lee? They were amazing, veterans of the highest order. Sean and Viggo were getting there. They were incredible. And Elijah? Shit, he'd been doing this since he was a kid.

When he watched them preparing for a scene, it was like they flicked a switch and there they were; Aragorn and Frodo, Gandalf and even Gimli. He felt so inadequate standing next to them, so hopelessly pathetic. Though they'd been encouraging at first, he now knew how they truly felt. A complete wanker they said and he was starting to agree with them.

Was it too late to cast someone else as Legolas? Someone who had more experience? Someone who would be able to hold his own with his costars? Because it sure wasn't Orlando Bloom, klutz and all around fuck up.

*****

Chapter 2

The Rohan scenes were grueling yet Orlando fell into a routine. He would arrive earlier than usual and get into costume. Then he would spend the hour or so until he was due on the set trying to meditate his way out of a headache or a backache. Riding the horse, even with the harness, was rough on him. He wouldn't take the painkillers because they made it impossible for him to concentrate. He'd made that mistake the first day of shooting and had made a complete ass of himself.

So he worked through whatever level of pain he was currently experiencing. After shooting was done for the day, he would get his costume and prosthetics off in record time and head straight home. Once there he would study the next day's schedule, go over any lines he had and practice some of Legolas' movements. Then he would drink until the pain in his back faded or he passed out. The next day he would wake up and do it all over again.

He looked at the horse he was supposed to ride today. The animal was sweet and gentle normally, yet, today it seemed a bit nervous, as if it could sense something was off with its rider. He laid a gentle hand on its muzzle and leaned against its neck.

In a few moments, Peter was calling for everyone to take his or her places. He climbed into the saddle and waited for John's stunt double. His stomach rolled and he took a deep breath to calm it. Soon he couldn't take the time to worry about his stomach. Bruce was being helped into the saddle.

In the next instant, they were charging across Rohan. The cameras were rolling and the horse was pounding along beneath him. He blinked. Pain slammed through him as he hit the ground, flat on his back. It doubled as Bruce, in all his armor, landed heavily on his torso. Air rushed out of his lungs. A pitiful moan slipped passed his lips despite his efforts to contain it.

Pain bounced back and forth along his spine and chest as Bruce rolled off him. He turned to his side and curled into a ball, his lungs burning for air and his chest blazing with pain. He didn't hear the voices calling to him. Roaring filled his ears as he gasped for breath.

Suddenly hands were on him, rolling him to his back. Immediately he pushed them away.

"Don't touch me," he snarled. "Don't fucking touch me. I'm fine."

Everyone backed off in surprise. Orlando had been acting so very odd lately his moods were dark when not in a scene and he kept to himself. They didn't often hear the young Brit swear. Now they watched him carefully, wondering where the sweet Orli they knew had got to.

Orlando closed his eyes for a moment and took a deep breath. Pain seared him and he knew that he'd broken a rib. It was going to hurt like a bitch to move or breathe. However, he wasn't going to make them stop filming because of him.

"Orli?" Viggo's soft voice was close yet he made no move to assist.

"Yeah?" he answered slowly.

"Can you get up?"

"Yeah wind knocked out of me is all," Orlando answered quickly. "I'm fine."

"But your back," Viggo began. "You hit pretty hard."

"I SAID I am fine Viggo." Orlando snapped as he slowly got to his feet. If he let them see exactly how much pain he was in, they'd send him home and everyone would be pissed at him again.

"Are you sure?" Peter asked, stepping closer and putting his hand on Orlando's arm. He looked into the young actor's eyes, noted the glazed over quality and the lines of pain around Orlando's mouth. "No you're not. Where are the medics? I want them here right now."

Peter wrapped his arm around Orlando and began walking him towards the trailers. He ordered a break and told everyone he'd call when he needed them back on set.

"Pete, please," Orli whispered. "Let me finish the scene. I don't want to hold it up. I'm fine."

"Don't lie to me Orlando. I don't like it," Peter growled. "And you're not fine. I can see it in your face."

"Just... I can finish this. Just tape it up and let me get back to work. Please Pete, I don't want to let anyone down. I can do this. I can finish. Please don't let me fuck this up Peter."

*****

Chapter 3

Orlando gingerly tried to pull his shirt over his head. He had finally convinced Peter to tape up his ribs and let him finish the scene. Who knew that a falling dwarf could hurt so much? Normally running hot, Orlando could tell by feel where his injuries were. The flesh was searing to the touch. The medics had grumbled when Orli had told them to just tape him up. They had wanted to send him for x-rays and the whole nine yards. He refused. He wouldn't be the cause for another day of missed filming.

Now he stood in the dressing trailer, trying to pull on his street clothes. It wasn't working. He couldn't raise his arms over his head without a band of pain wrapping around his torso from front to back. The tape they had wrapped around him pulled at his skin whenever he moved. He needed to sit down or he was going to fall over so slowly he made his way to a chair and slid into it, his shirt falling to the floor beside it. His legs felt like jelly and his torso was on fire.

The door opened and Orlando couldn't even open his eyes to see who it was.

"Jeez Orli," Liv's sweet voice touched his ears and then her hands were on his shoulder and arm. "Are you alright?"

A low moan was her only answer.

'I'm going to get someone," She started to rise but he suddenly gripped her wrist.

"No," he ground out as he attempted to stand. "I'm fine."

"Orli, hon, it's clear that you aren't fine. I heard what happened today. It's ok to admit you're hurt. Don't be macho and stupid," she said, a little exasperation in her voice. "Let me get someone to help you."

"No Liv," he said again, trying to keep the tears from spilling as he rose. "They'll make me go to the hospital. I hate hospitals. I just need to get back to my place and lie down. Promise me you won't tell anyone."

"All right Orli, but I don't like it," Liv sighed. She helped him to his feet, into his shirt, and out to her car. There was no way she was going to let him drive home by himself.

Viggo watched Liv and Orli. Something definitely wasn't right. Orlando was leaning heavily on the young woman and his movements were stiff. Then it struck him; Orlando was trying to hold his body still. From what Bruce had said, he felt Orlando lose his seat and they both went over, but Orli had taken the brunt of both his and Bruce's fall on his side and his back.

When Peter had taken Orli aside, Viggo had been sure they were done. However, the two had come back and they had finished the scenes. Now Orli was being helped to his car. Obviously more was going on than met the eye. It was too late now to try to talk to the young man. Viggo had been worried about him for weeks. He didn't know what made him think so, but he felt that Orli was in trouble.

Orlando bid Liv goodbye at his door. He didn't want her to see the mess his place had become. Clothing was thrown everywhere along with old scripts and bottles of beer and other alcoholic beverages littered the tabletops and floors. He didn't know what she thought of him, whether she agreed with the others or not, but he didn't want to make a bad impression worse if he could help it.

"Orli are you sure you're alright? You don't need me to stay with you?" she said softly.

"Yeah Liv. I'm good. I'm just going to take a muscle relaxer, a painkiller and hit the sack. I'll be better than new by morning," he said but his smile didn't touch his eyes.

"Ok. Give me a call in the morning and I'll take you to the set since we left your car there," she said. "Sleep sweet Orli."

'You too Liv and thanks," he said.

"You're welcome," she smiled and then walked down the steps to her car. She really didn't want to leave him alone. Her gut told her that something was very wrong. However, she couldn't force him to let her in.

She got into her car and started the engine. Then she stared at the door of Orlando's place. She wasn't sure what to do. Picking up the phone, she called one of the few people she'd come to trust during filming.

"Hello?" came the soft voice.

"Viggo?" she said.

"Hey Liv, what's going on?" Viggo asked as he sat down in an empty makeup chair.

"I... I'm at Orli's place," she began.

"Yeah I saw you leave with him. Is everything all right? He finished the scene, but I think he was more hurt than he let on," Viggo said, trying to ignore the rock that suddenly settled in his stomach.

"No he's NOT alright," she said sharply. "I found him in the trailer and his face was completely white. He couldn't lift his arms above his head to put his shirt on. He could barely walk. Have you noticed the dark circles under his eyes? There's something going on with him Viggo and it's scaring me. He seemed very excited when we started but now... I don't know. It's different. HE'S different. What happened?"

"Early on he overheard some of the guys talking," Viggo sighed. "They were upset because he kept missing his mark and flubbing lines. After that, he pretty much stopped talking to anyone. He comes in, does his scenes and goes home. They've tried to apologize, get him to go out with them, but well he very politely declined and then finally stopped answering his phone. I can see something's wrong with him. His eyes are dull, his face is pale and I swear he's thinner than he was before. Ngila has had to take in his costume."

"Can you come over here?" Liv asked. "I'm supposed to be on set for the rest of the afternoon and I don't think he should be alone."

"Sure. If he'll let me in the door," Viggo muttered. "I have to get out of costume first. Can you stay till I get there?"

"Yeah thanks Viggo. I appreciate it. Maybe you can get through to him," Liv smiled. "Talk to you later."

"Yeah," Viggo answered and then hung up. He let out a low sigh, resting his chin on his hand as he contemplated the conversation.

"Is something wrong Viggo?" Ian asked as he walked passed the younger actor. "You look perplexed."

"I'm just thinking," Viggo answered. "Maybe you can help."

"I'd be delighted to. What is the problem?" Ian asked as he settled next to the younger man.

"Orlando," Viggo said.

"Oh dear," Ian sighed. "That is a difficult one. You see, the boy is probably feeling the weight of this role. He is fresh out of Guildhall. He is struggling to reach standards that we, as veterans, have established. He is probably feeling as if he is failing, as if he was the worst choice for this part and, I dare say, he feels as if he is letting us down. Of course, overhearing the complaints did not help in the least. In addition, if this morning was any indication, his mental state is having an adverse affect on his physical health. Orlando was in no shape to continue and yet he managed to convince Peter to let him finish the scene. He is pushing himself too hard and he is going to break."

"Liv said he couldn't even finish dressing himself to go home," Viggo said. "So how do I help him? I'm pretty sure he doesn't want it."

"Well, my dear young man, you give him no choice," Ian chuckled. "Be persistent. It is a quality you Americans pride yourselves on if I am correct."

"You're right," Viggo laughed. "Thanks Ian."

"You are most welcome," Ian said patting him on the shoulder.

"Please let me know how you fare with young Orlando. I like the boy and think he has great potential. It would be a shame to lose him."

"I will." Viggo promised.

*****

Chapter 4

Orlando laid on the bed contemplating the three bottles on his nightstand. One bottle of Jack Daniels, one bottle of painkillers and one bottle of muscle relaxers taunted him. Standing next to them was a bottle of water, unopened. He knew the first three would numb him. The last one would keep him alive. He was in so much pain right now; he didn't know which would be better. He hadn't even been able to undress completely. His pants, boxers and socks were in one pile. He still wore his shirt, having been unable to get it off because of the pain.

"I'm pathetic," he mumbled reaching for the painkillers and opening the bottle. "Can't remember my lines, Can't find my mark. Always screwing things up. A fuck up that's what I am. No wonder they hate me."

He poured three of the Vicadin in his hand. Then, replacing the bottle, he grabbed the muscle relaxers and pulled out one pill. Putting that one back, he looked at the two untouched bottles. JD or water? He stared at them; trying to decide which one he would use to wash down the pills.

Sunk in his thoughts, he didn't hear the doorbell. Nor did he hear Viggo call his name as the other actor walked into the house. He looked down at the pills in his hand and then back at the two beverages on the table.

Viggo couldn't believe what he saw. Orlando's apartment was completely trashed. What startled him though was the amount of bottles littering the rooms. Most of them were whiskey, but there were a good number of scotch and vodka bottles. Old scripts littered every surface and the place reeked of alcohol, beer and old food.

Making a circuit of the lower rooms, he found no sign of Orlando. Grabbing the banister, he ran up the stairs, a sinking feeling in his stomach. Things were a lot worse than he thought. He burst through Orli's bedroom door, freezing at the scene before him. Pill bottles, alcohol and Orlando reaching for the Jack Daniels.

Rushing around the bed, he snatched up the bottle and threw it, smashing it against the far wall. He stared down into Orlando's wide chocolate eyes and sat down on the bed, grabbing the younger man's wrist in the process. Then he pried his fingers open to see the four pills sitting in his palm.

"What the fuck are you doing here?" Orli demanded as he tried to sit up. His body protested and he fell back against the sheets.

"Saving your ass apparently," Viggo growled. He took two of the painkillers and placed them on the nightstand. Then he grabbed the bottle of water and opened it. "Take them."

"One of those is not going to do shit," Orlando said, trying to keep the tears from his voice.

"Well it's all you're going to get at the moment," Viggo said, helping him to sit up so he could drink. "If you don't take them then we'll just go to the hospital without them."

"I am NOT going to a hospital," Orlando glared at the older man. "Who asked you to interfere? I'm fine."

"Yeah that's why you're still wearing your shirt, about to take 3 painkillers and a muscle relaxer with a JD chaser," Viggo snorted as he glanced at the pill bottles. "Look, forget it then. Don't take the damn pills but you're going to the hospital whether I have to hogtie you or not."

"Why do you care? It's not like we're friends or nothing," Orlando mumbled.

"A, because I happen to like you and B, because I refuse to have any other actor take what is clearly YOUR role," Viggo growled as he grabbed Orli's pants from their pile. He slid them up the young man's legs, trying to ignore the completely inappropriate response from his body. Now was not the time.

"Anyone could play Legolas better than me," Orlando snorted. "I'm messing up every time I turn around. I'm surprised Peter hasn't recast the part already. I'm obviously the wrong person for the part."

"You haven't seen the dailies have you?" Viggo laughed as he helped Orlando to his feet, wrapping one arm carefully around the young man's waist and taking his arm over his shoulder. "You have him just right. Once we get you patched up, I'll tell you what I see when I'm watching you. Right now, we're going to the hospital."

"I hate hospitals," Orlando mumbled as they maneuvered through the doorway.

"Tough shit. It's obvious you need one. I don't know how you convinced PJ to let you go on?" Viggo muttered.

"I begged," Orlando said through gritted teeth as they walked down the stairs and out the door to the older man's car. "A lot. I find that people like me better when I'm on my knees with my mouth full but for some reason, I just couldn't manage that position today."

"That's not funny Orlando," Viggo said stiffly.

"Funny or not it's true," Orli answered as he was lowered into the passenger seat. "I may be an inexperienced actor, but there are some things that I have more knowledge of than you think."

"We'll discuss that later," Viggo said as he got in on the other side.

The rest of the ride took place in silence. Orlando simply did not have the energy to talk, but he continually asked himself why he'd said such things to Viggo. The older man was incredibly attractive and had starred in a number of Orli's drunken fantasies. However, they had never talked to one another more than discussing a scene they were shooting. Why had he even hinted at the unpleasantness he had experienced? It was a fact of his life, one that he'd grown accustomed to. If someone expressed an interest in him, it was because they wanted him in their bed, nothing more. The only place where that had been different was at Guildhall. There he had been one beautiful face in a sea of gorgeous faces. There had been nothing to separate him from the others but his talent. Now, on this film, there was nothing to make him stand out save his ability to fuck things up on a constant basis.

Viggo kept silent, running things over in his mind. When he had first met Orlando, the boy had been full of energy and excitement. He seemed to mesh well with Dom, Billy, Elijah and Sam. He'd been in awe of Ian McKellan, Sean Bean and Ian Holm. When he had met Christopher Lee, his eyes had about jumped out of his sockets. He'd been in seventh heaven and he'd listened with rapt attention to the stories of the older actors.

He'd been vivacious and inspiring with his seemingly inexhaustible energy. Viggo had watched that energy slowly fade as he tried to get things just so. He'd seen the annoyance in Orlando's eyes each time someone had told him he was young, or that he would 'get it' eventually. Now that he thought about it, what they had thought of as encouraging, Orli probably thought of as patronizing.

"We're here," he said softly as he pulled into the hospital parking lot. He watched Orlando's pain-dulled eyes open. The younger man grimaced but said nothing. Viggo hurried around, helped him out of the car and into the hospital. It didn't take them long to get Orlando into a room. They waited for the x-ray technician.

*****

Chapter 5

Viggo sighed as he tucked Orlando into his bed. The young man was out cold. The doctor had taped up his ribs and told him to take it easy for about a week or so. Luckily, they had finished the Rohan scenes that day... at least the ones requiring him to be on horseback. Reaching down, he brushed his fingers through Orli's Mohawk, a small smile playing across his face. Then he let the backs of his fingers trace down the fine high cheekbone. There was no denying that Orlando was beautiful. Viggo had contemplated painting him. Not to capture that beauty, but rather to capture the life and energy that shined in his eyes. Now that he saw him sleeping, he decided he was going to do that painting after all.

First things first though. Viggo went through the house and dumped every bit of alcohol down the drain. He got rid of all the food containers and washed all the dirty plates. Then he tackled the living room and the old scripts. Organizing and filing them, he had Orli's place spotless. Then he set to cooking a decent meal for the young man. They had a lot to talk about when Orlando woke up.

Reaching for the phone, Viggo made two phone calls. The first was to Liv, letting her know what the situation was. The second was to Ian. He invited the man over to Orlando's for dinner.

"I would be delighted," Ian said. "But are you sure the boy is up for it?"

"I think he could use someone with your experience to talk to. Besides, you're one of the few that defended him," Viggo pointed out. "You have more patience and understanding than anyone else. When he wakes up, he's going to be pissed at me. But he won't fly off the handle with you here."

"Ah so it is self-preservation rather than a desire for my company," Ian laughed. "Very well, I will save you... this time."

"Thanks Ian. See you in a bit," Viggo said and then hung up. Later on, he would go grocery shopping and get some nutritious food in the house. Apparently, Orlando had been living on leftovers and booze. It was never a good combination. He would get Orlando back on his feet in no time. At least, that's what he planned to do.

Orlando awoke to a soft hand brushing along his forehead. He opened his eyes to see Viggo sitting on the side of his bed. He had a glass of water in his hand. Orli smiled and unconsciously turned his face into the touch as Viggo slid his hand down his cheek.

"Hey sleepy head," Viggo smiled.

"Hey," Orli mumbled. "You're still here?'

"Of course," Viggo answered. "I wanted to make sure you were alright. I made some dinner, you hungry?"

"Yeah I am," Orli answered after a moment.

"Think you can get up by yourself?"

"Yeah," he tried to get up, but groaned and sank back down, "Maybe I need a bit of help."

Viggo chuckled as he helped the other man up. Then they went downstairs. Orli settled himself on the couch and sighed in relief. He had just leaned his head back when there was a knock on the door. Orli listened to Viggo answer it and the soft murmur of voices.

"My, you have done a number on yourself," Ian chuckled as he walked into the living room.

Orlando's eyes widened with surprise and then shot to Viggo. The other man had the decency to look sheepish before slipping away to the kitchen.

"Do not be too hard on Viggo. He is worried about you, as am I," Ian said as he settled into a chair near the couch. "Shall I begin? Or would you like to?"

"Begin what?"

"Discussing what is bothering you, my boy," Ian said with a gentle smile.

"Nothing is... "

"You are feeling overwhelmed, as if this role is too big for you. Perhaps that you are failing your fellow actors, your director and, ultimately, yourself," Ian said. He chuckled again as Orlando's eyes widened.

"How?" the young man whispered.

"Because we have all been there at one point or another," Ian said. "I would imagine it is very difficult for you being the youngest and fresh out of Guildhall. Here you stand with people you have only seen on the 'big screen'. Moreover, you must perform with them. You must place your performance next to established actors."

"Pretty much hit the nail on the head," Orli mumbled.

"May I be quite honest with you?" Ian said.

"Sure," Orlando answered.

"You are quite a talent. It is amazing to watch you personify a character in one of my favorite pieces of literature. Legolas comes naturally to you. His cat-like grace, his quiet serenity and his strength of purpose and will. Not many actors can create the aura of ethereal beauty and wisdom of a Tolkein elf. You do it with almost subconscious ease. You have my respect young man, and my admiration. I believe in you and you must believe in yourself. Most of all you must remember your love of acting and have fun with it. Mistakes happen. I will flub lines, Christopher will miss cues, and it is part of being human. Do not let it discourage you," Ian said.

"You honestly believe that?" Orlando questioned.

"Yes I do," Ian smiled. "Now, whatever Viggo has cooked smells incredibly delicious. Shall we dine then?"

"Yeah," Orlando returned with a smile of his own.

*****

Chapter 6

The weeks following Orlando's accident were quite different from the ones preceding it. Viggo refused to let him crawl back into his shell. The other actor came over to his house almost every night to check on him. They would sit up talking about everything and nothing in particular, but it gave Orlando no time to doubt himself and his abilities.

Once his rib had healed, he and Viggo would go out to a quiet pub they'd found. He found that he could talk to Viggo, felt comfortable with him. He hadn't said any more on his sex life but they could talk on a wide range of subjects. He was hoping the other man wouldn't remember is careless remark.

"Glad you stopped drinking the hard stuff," Viggo commented.

"Yeah," Orli chuckled. "I drink anything harder than beer and I'm smashed in about two sips. But, it took the edge off you know?"

"Yeah but that's a dangerous path to walk," Viggo answered.

"I know. It made me horny as hell too which sucked," Orli mumbled absently.

"I think that was a bit more information than I needed," Viggo chuckled as he shifted in his seat.

"Do you have ANY idea what it's like?" Orli laughed. "I was drunk, hard and had no one to help relieve the ache? Made for a miserable night, let me tell you."

"Oh come on," Viggo said. "Are you telling me that, with all the time you spent with Liv, you two never slept together?"

"Ewww that would be like sleeping with my sister," Orli said throwing a balled up napkin at him. "Besides, Liv's not my type."

"What? Beautiful? Talented?" Viggo said, batting the napkin away.

"No," Orli said bluntly. "Female."

Viggo choked on his drink. He lifted his eyes and stared into the intense chocolate orbs across the table from him. The heat in them was unmistakable. Slowly he set his drink on the table.

"Well that was a straight shot," Viggo said softly. He wasn't quite sure how to process the information. For a moment, he just sat there. It was as if he was in a stupor. The man across from him was gay. Viggo had wondered from time to time. He enjoyed both the softness of women and the hard strength of men, but he never imagined Orli to be into men.

Movement out of the corner of his eye grabbed his attention. Orlando was already out the door before Viggo realized what the young man was doing. He shot to his feet and followed, only to see Orlando pulling away faster than was safe. Swearing a blue streak, Viggo tried to decide whether he should follow him or not.

Orlando slammed the door to his house and threw his coat on the floor. Of all the stupid things he could have done, telling Viggo he was gay had to be the biggest. If the man's stupefied stare was any indication, he had just fucked up the only male friendship he'd made on set. He still wasn't comfortable around the others. They were friendly enough but he had a hard time trusting in that. Elijah seemed the most sincere, but even that wasn't something he trusted. Therefore, theirs was more of an acquaintance kind of thing. Viggo he could talk to. Well Viggo and Ian. He had made a habit of spending some down time with Ian, learning from him and listening to his advice.

The knock on his door brought him out of his musings. With a jolt of pleasure he chose to ignore, Orli trotted down the stairs to answer it.

"Sean. What are you doing here?" he asked.

"Well two reasons," the other Brit said as he stepped inside. "The first is to give an apology long overdue. I'm sorry for the things I said that day in the trailer. I know it's no excuse but I was hot, tired and shorter tempered than usual. Still I should have been more understanding of how things were for you. I am sorry."

"And the second?" Orli asked.

"This," Sean said as he pulled Orlando into his arms and kissed him.

For a moment, he was stunned as Sean's tongue expertly worked its way into his mouth. This was not something he had expected. He tasted whiskey on the older man and felt something cold and hard press into his back. Apparently, Sean had brought his drink with him.

"Drinking without me?" Orli questioned breathlessly as he drew back from the kiss.

"Ye want some?" Sean chuckled. He handed Orli the flask. "Good stuff too. Drambuie."

Orlando took a long pull off of the small metal container, feeling the rich scotch whiskey slide down his throat. He figured before this night was over, something else would be sliding down his throat. Things usually went the way.

Heat suffused his body and desire flowed along with it. He pressed against Sean, letting the other man feel his growing erection. A low chuckle tickled his ear as a hot mouth nipped at the lobe.

Pulling away, Orlando pulled his shirt off and tossed it on the floor. He led the way up the staircase.

"Close the door," he ordered softly as he kicked off his shoes and reached for the button on his pants. At the top of the stairs, he kicked his pants off and to the side. Continuing to his room, he heard Sean bound up the stairs behind him.

At the foot of his bed, he kicked off his boxers and waited. It didn't take long for Sean to press the entire length of his body up against him. Sean buried his face against the crook of his neck.

"God you smell good," the other man mumbled as he licked his skin. Orlando said nothing. He merely took another long pull from the flask. He felt Sean's fingers dance down his body and wrap around his shaft. Pleasure shot through him as the other man set up a steady stroke.

After a few moments, Orli stepped out of his arms and turned around. He quickly undressed Sean. He didn't waste time with kisses. Those were for someone he loved. He never kissed anyone he slept with. Sean had caught him off guard at the door.

Dropping to his knees, he took the head of Sean's cock in his mouth. This was where the other Brit wanted him after all. There was no need to play games. They both knew he wanted Orlando's lips wrapped around his cock before he threw him on his stomach and rode him hard and fast. It always went that way. They all wanted him face down, ass in the air.

"You're good at this," Sean moaned as he placed his hand on the back of his head.

Orli felt the pressure and swallowed him to the root. He sat passive as Sean fucked his mouth, moving rapidly back and forth. Using his tongue to the best of his abilities, he pressed it along the vein riding underneath the thick shaft. If the stuttering thrusts were any indication, it wouldn't take Sean long to cum.

Hot seed sprayed against the back of his throat. He knew Sean wasn't going to let him spit so he swallowed the salty mass. Then he was drawn to his feet. Quickly he dodged the kiss, turning them and pushing Sean backwards on the bed. The whiskey was doing its job and his cock was hard and leaking.

"How do you want me?" he asked.

"Huh?" Sean responded.

"How do you want me?" Orli repeated. "Oh my hands and knees? Face down on the bed? Do you want me on top facing you? Facing away from you? How do you want to fuck me Sean?"

"Damn uh, hands and knees," Sean answered, scrambling to the side.

"Lube is in the nightstand," Orli said absently as he crawled onto the bed. He waited while Sean grabbed the tube and put some on his fingers. A small hiss escaped his lips as the older man circled his opening and then pressed inside. Taking a deep breath, he pressed back. Soon a second joined the first than a third. At least Sean was taking the time to prepare him. It was a redeeming quality if a small one.

"Gods yer tight," the man mumbled.

"Just fuck me Sean," Orlando growled. He dropped his head down and leaned on his elbows. "Don't make me wait."

"Yer sure?"

"Yes," Orli hissed.

Immediately Sean replaced his fingers with his shaft. Orlando bit his lip at the steady burn of his entry. Finally, Sean was seated deep inside him. He took deep breaths trying to make his body relax. It took a few moments but eventually his muscles loosened. He would be incredibly sore in the morning.

Sean began to move. Orlando couldn't fault him. He made sure to hit his prostate with each stroke. Orli felt detached from it all. It was like someone else was being fucked.

"Geez Orli," Sean moaned above him. "Tight, hot."

Orlando didn't respond. He moaned softly at the inevitable pleasure that came with having that sensitive bundle of nerves stroked. He panted softly, being pushed towards that edge however reluctantly.

Soon Sean was grunting and slamming into him. His fingers dug into his hips and Orli knew there would be bruises come morning. He felt him tense, knew what was coming. Bracing himself, he felt Sean's thrusts pick up speed as he got closer and closer. Finally, heat splashed against his insides. Sean roared and pushed hard into his ass.

Orlando held perfectly still as Sean collapsed against his back. He lowered them both to the bed and tipped to the left, rolling the other man off and out of him. Wincing slightly he got up. A shudder wracked his body as he felt Sean's seed ooze out of him and down his thighs. Immediately he climbed into the shower and turned the water on full blast. He lowered himself down to the floor, bringing his knees up to his chest, and curled his arms around them. The tears blended with the water as they slid down his face.

When he finally came out of the shower, Sean was gone. Orli hadn't really expected him to stay. They never did. It was always the wham, bam thank you mate scenario. He stripped the sheets off the bed and remade it. Then he climbed in, curling around his pillow. Sleep was slow in coming but it finally wrapped him in its soft embrace. The tears fell then too.

*****

Chapter 7

"What's got you smiling like a Cheshire cat?" Viggo laughed as he walked into the trailer he shared with Sean.

"Got myself laid," the other man answered as he pulled on his leggings.

"Again?" Viggo chuckled. "You've been lucky almost every night for the past month."

"Sweetest piece of ass I've had in a long time," Sean returned. "He's young, tight and ready whenever I am."

"He? So you found yourself a boy toy huh?" Viggo pulled off his street clothes and grabbed his costume.

"Only because you won't let me fuck you mate," Sean pointed out. "I'd love to sink into that sweet ass of yours."

"Yeah but then you'll not return the favor," Viggo laughed. "I don't give up this ass unless I'm assured of getting a piece too. Who is this lucky bastard? Maybe I'll run him through with my sword."

"You know him quite well mate," Sean smiled wickedly. "It's your favorite elf boy. Orlando"

Viggo froze in the midst of pulling on his shirt. Slowly he finished, thankful his back was to Sean so the other man couldn't see the shocked look on his face. Right along that shock came anger and jealousy. It had been quite awhile since he'd felt the mix. Orlando was sleeping with Sean?

"I must admit that little bastard is an amazing fuck, "Sean chuckled. "Hell even takes two at a time. Craig and me had a piece one night. Wide open he was, mouth and ass. He gives the best head of any guy I know. You should try him Viggo. Let me know and I'll set it up. He won't mind. Always ready Orli is."

"I think you need to shut up now,' Viggo said softly. He'd used that hissing voice as Lucifer and occasionally as Aragorn.

"What's wrong mate?" Sean asked, coming around to look at Viggo. His green eyes went wide in shock. "Damn. You're in love with him."

"You're fucking nuts," Viggo growled, trying to turn away. Sean grabbed his arm.

"That's why you've been moping. I noticed you and he weren't as close as you were a month ago. It didn't click until just now. What happened? I thought for sure you two were an item. But when I showed up on his doorstep, pretty sloshed, he let me do whatever I wanted."

"He told me he was gay," Viggo whispered. "And, like a fucking idiot, I just stared. I never expected it. By the time I got my shit together, he was pulling out of the parking lot. He hasn't spoken to me since."

"Damn man," Sean said, shifting his weight from one foot to the other. "I didn't know mate. If I had known, I never would have shagged him. Not in a million years."

"Nothing you could do about it," Viggo said. "I fucked it up. Hell, here I am, swinging both ways myself, and the one guy I want turns out to be gay. Its perfect and I screw it up by staring like an idiot. I thought for sure he was straight and he threw me for a loop. I'm just glad he's not drinking again."

"Again?" Sean said, freezing in place.

"Yeah," Viggo said as he pulled on the over tunic and began tying the laces. "Remember when he'd overhead you guys talking about him? Apparently, he went on a binge. He was drinking every night and had cut himself off from everyone. He was in bad shape. Then the accident with Bruce. He can't drink anything harder than beer. He gets drunk off a couple of sips."

"Drunk? Shit," Sean cursed.

"What?" Viggo said, his voice going tight.

"I'm sorry mate. If I had known, I never would have... he drinks every time he's with us." Sean said. "Whiskey, JD. Whatever we happen to bring with us. Then I take him home and we... well."

"Damn it Sean," Viggo hissed. Then he took a deep breath and tried to calm himself. "You need to take care of him. Please, I'm... just please don't let him hurt himself. He'll push too hard and that's why I had to take him to the hospital when he broke his rib. He was going to just keep going without taking care of himself."

"Maybe you should tell him how you feel mate," Sean said. "It might make a difference. I'm supposed to see him tonight. I'll go, but I'm telling him it's the last time. If he has to drink to be with me then it's not where he wants to be and he ALWAYS drinks with me."

"Because it makes him horny," Viggo muttered sadly.

"Don't crush my ego or anything," Sean snorted.

"Sorry. It's just something he told me," Viggo said.

"Come on mate. It seems like I'm going to have to fix yer love life for you," Sean laughed. "AFTER we finish shooting for the day. Best get out there or PJ will have our hides."

"Yeah."

*****

Chapter 8

Orlando laid in his bed, staring out the window. The air from the overhead fan blew across his naked skin, causing gooseflesh to rise and his nipples to tighten. The sky reminded him of Viggo's eyes. It was a stormy blue. Absently his hand traveled from where it was tucked under his head, down his chest to one nipple. Slowly he stroked the hard bud, pinching and twisting occasionally. The movements send shards of pleasure lancing through his body. His other hand followed suit and then slid down his body

As he thought about the rugged older actor, he slowly wrapped his fingers around his cock. A low moan purred through his lips. Leisurely strokes pushed him towards the edge of pleasure. He imagined it was Viggo's hand on his shaft. He wanted it to be. He wanted to feel Viggo's flesh against his, feel him sliding in and out of his body.

Panting, his other hand moved down to cup his sack, rolling his balls back and forth over his fingers. He pictured Viggo in his mind, taking them into his mouth one at a time. He groaned as he slid one hand further downward, circling his opening and pressing gently. God it felt so good.

"Viggo," he moaned, pressing down on his finger as he brought his hand up and over, taking his leaking juices and smearing them over his shaft. His hips lifted as his imagination rolled hotter and hotter. He pictured Viggo taking him, pushing into him, making him feel incredible. He arched as he pushed his finger deeper, to the second knuckle. God he wanted Viggo.

Panting and moaning, Orli felt his balls draw up as he barely brushed his prostate. He wanted more, so much more. He wanted Viggo to fuck him until he couldn't sit. Another stroke, another whimper and he spilled into his hand, his seed coating his fingers and belly as he called Viggo's name. He collapsed back against the bed, his breath coming short and hard.

"That was the most erotic thing I have ever seen," Sean whispered.

"Sean," Orlando gasped, pulling the sheet over his sticky body. "I didn't hear you come in."

"So I see," Sean smiled as he sat on the edge of the bed. He pulled the sheet away from Orlando's body, staring at the glistening liquid on his lower stomach. "The sad part is, I know this was not meant for me."

"I'm sorry," Orli whispered, trying to turn away. Sean stopped him with a hand on his hip.

"Don't be," Sean paused for a moment and then looked into Orli's eyes. "I talked to Viggo today."

Orli stiffened for a moment and then forced his body to relax. He closed his eyes and let out a slow breath.

"Really," he whispered. "How's he doing?"

"Strained," Sean answered. "He's worried about you. He says you two haven't spoken in a month."

"I... no we haven't," Orlando admitted.

"Look Orli," Sean began turning to face him fully. "I've never been good at this beating around the bush so I'm just going to say it straight mate. That man loves you."

"You're joking right?" Orlando snorted. "I told him I was gay and he just stared at me."

"He was a bit shocked Orli. He never pictured you as being into men. Look, that man cares about you. He begged me to take care of you."

"So are you going to fuck me tonight or not?" Orli said, trying to change the subject quickly.

"No Orlando. I am not going to fuck you tonight. In fact, I'm not even staying longer than it takes to convince you to give Viggo a chance," Sean sighed as he looked at the young man. "You're beautiful and great in bed, but we both deserve more. Had I known before this that you needed booze to make you want me, I would never have fucked you in the first place."

"Viggo has a big mouth," Orlando said rising from the bed. He walked into the bathroom. Grabbing a washcloth, he began cleaning himself off.

"It came up in conversation when he mentioned that he was glad you weren't drinking again. You need to sit down and talk to him."

"So you've said," Orlando grumbled. "Look Sean, I appreciate your advice, but you don't know a damn thing about me."

"That's because you won't LET anyone know anything about you," Sean snapped. "Not everyone is interested in a good fuck."

"Oh? Seems you were," Orlando pointed out as he turned to face the older Brit.

"Yeah I was," Sean admitted. He reached out and cupped the back of Orlando's head, pulling him closer until their forehead's touched. "But I was thinking about it today and things I didn't notice before became glaringly obvious in my mind. The sex is great, but it was missing something. It was missing your honest desire. You were horny but anyone would have done. I didn't see it but you weren't with me one hundred percent. Your mind was elsewhere and I think I know where it was."

"Do share," Orlando whispered, closing his eyes, trying to deny what Sean was saying.

"Your mind was with Viggo," Sean said softly as he lifted his head and kissed his forehead. "Talk with him and give him a chance, Orli. See if there's something there. Promise me you'll at least try."

"Fine," Orlando sighed. "I'll think about it and see if I want to try. I don't promise anything. I don't guarantee I will talk to him. I just... I need to have some time to myself."

"If you need to talk at any time," Sean said. "I'm here Orli. I want to be your friend even if I'm no longer your lover."

*****

Chapter 9

The filming schedule became hectic and Orlando didn't get a chance to talk to Viggo. They saw each other nearly every day but they never got a moment in private. If Orli were honest with himself, he would admit that he was scared. Viggo was so different from anyone else he had ever met. The man had taken care of him, cooked for him, cleaned his apartment and got him back on his feet. Things had been good. He had a friend who he felt comfortable with and he'd blown it.

What if Sean was right? What if Viggo did feel something for him? Could he take that chance? Could he risk being hurt again? Orlando wasn't sure. He tried to see if he could see what Sean had seen. It was hard to tell. He had no experience with it. Sex sure, he could tell you if someone wanted to fuck him. He had no clue how to tell if someone loved him.

Then it was almost over and Orlando felt panic. They had one more scene to shoot and they were done. Orlando stood in his formal Elven robes, the circlet on his head. He felt so odd. Looking in the mirror, he saw a completely different Legolas. After so many conversations with Ian he could see the woodland elf peering out of his eyes. The warrior prince felt different from the king's son that looked at him now. He was every inch the Crown Prince.

"You look incredible," Liv said as she came in to the costume trailer. She was already dressed in her finery. The silver glistened in her dark hair.

"I think of the two I'm the prettiest," Orlando smiled.

"We shall see Ernilen," she answered, her laughter tickling like bells. "Are you ready? PJ is getting anxious to start."

"Yeah. It feels weird," Orlando said. "To think that it will all be over in a little bit. It feels weird to be in these robes too. I'm so used to the leggings and tunic."

"Well you did have the thighs for them," she laughed. "Come on, we have to get going."

Orlando took her hand and they walked out of the trailer. The Gondor set wasn't far and they chit chatted all the way there. He took his mark, giving her a wink and a kiss before turning back to face the right direction.

As he listened to Viggo sing the soft Elven words, a shiver ran through him, shaking him to his core. He watched Viggo and then came their moment. When Viggo put his hand on his shoulder, a shiver ran the entire length of his body. The Elven words caressed his ears as if the man had been speaking them all his life. He placed his hand on Viggo's shoulder.

"Hannon le," Viggo whispered in that quiet Aragorn voice.

There were a myriad of things Orlando wanted to say. However, this scene required a more silent communication. He put on Legolas' 'I know something you don't know' smile and flicked his gaze to his right. Then slowly he stepped out of the way, waiting for Liv to make her entrance.

They went over the scene a few more times. Peter wanted it just right. Orlando's gut twisted each time Viggo performed his pouncing kiss. They were truly able to portray the kind of ever-lasting love every person dreamed of. It made his heart ache and he didn't want to examine it any closer. Peter called for a wrap and everyone let out a bit of a cheer.

Quietly Orlando slipped away to the costume trailer. He removed the robes and set the circlet on the counter. Dressing quickly, he hurried over to the makeup trailer where they were waiting for the ears and the wig. Once that was done, he smiled at them and then left. Tomorrow would start the exodus of a good number of the actors. He was one of them.

He didn't wait to see any of the others. Just climbed in his car and drove to his place. He wanted a quiet night a time to think and to decide what he was going to do from here. He picked up the phone and ordered dinner. Then he grabbed a book and tried reading.

He opened his eyes to a knock on the front door. Lifting his head, he wiped his eyes of sleep. Glancing at the clock, he noted that he'd been asleep for several hours. Rising, he walked over to the door and opened it, rubbing his hand over his mohawk. His eyes widened as he saw Viggo standing there, hands in the pockets of his jeans and looking down at the pavement.

"Viggo," Orlando breathed.

The older man's head shot up and they stared into each other's eyes through the screen door. For a few moments, Orlando didn't know what to say. Then he simply opened the door and let him inside. Quietly he closed the door behind him and followed Viggo into the center of his living room.

"You slipped away without telling anyone," Viggo said softly

"Yeah," Orlando said as he fidgeted, picking up things around the living room. "I um, I had some things to think about."

"Orli," Viggo said as he grabbed his wrists and stopped his motions. The young man paused and looked into his eyes. He saw how wide Orli's were and filled with fear, something else was there though and Viggo wanted to know what it was. "Maybe we should start where things all seemed to go wrong."

He pulled Orli into his arms and leaned his forehead against his. Wrapping his arms around the young man's waist gently, he began to speak.

"The night you told me you were gay, I was surprised," Viggo said.

"It just honestly never occurred to me. I was a bit stunned and that made me speechless. You were already walking out the door when I finally got my act together. By the time I reached the parking lot, you were gone. I thought I'd royally screwed things up. God, how do I say this without sounding like a total asshole?"

"You're doing fine," Orli whispered.

"When I first saw you I was stunned. You were laughing, your eyes were sparkling, and it knocked me for a loop. Then, that energy, that vivacity started to fade away and I worried about you. Finally, well, I did something about it and we became friends. But I never stopped getting that breathless sensation whenever you looked or smiled at me. What I should have said that night was that I'm bi," Viggo said. "And that I find you incredibly beautiful and intelligent. I love being with you and talking with you. There's so much to see in your eyes that it amazes me."

"Viggo," Orlando said nervously. "You... I... "

"Shhh," Viggo said as he paced one finger on Orlando's lips. "Don't say anything. I came over here tonight to tell you all of this. To tell you I love you and have from the first moment I met you. If you'll let me, I want to show you because sometimes words don't mean shit in the grand scheme of things."

Orlando looked into his eyes, searching for any sign that the older man was lying. All he saw was desire and something deeper, something he'd never seen in anyone else's eyes. On a breathless sigh, he answered him.

"Yes,"

He let Viggo's hands cup his face, staring into those incredible blue eyes. At the last second, he turned and nuzzled his palm, avoiding the kiss Viggo had been about to bestow upon him and missing the confusion in his eyes. He didn't know how he felt yet. Everything was all confused inside his head. All he knew was that he wanted this man more than he wanted anyone else. He wrapped his arms around Viggo's neck, tilting his head back and giving him more access to his neck. A low sigh of pleasure escaped him as that lovely tongue flicked along the hollow at the base of his throat. Their bodies aligned perfectly and hard shafts pressed together through layers of fabric. Orli let out a loud moan, shifting his hips in small circles to get more friction.

"Upstairs," Viggo rumbled, his teeth scraping along Orli's shoulder through the shirt.

"Yes," came the panted reply.

Instead of waiting for the younger man to lead the way, Viggo leaned down and scooped his legs out from under him. Carrying him up the stairs, he continued to feast on the flesh of Orli's neck, a bit frustrated that the young man wouldn't kiss him. Yet, he didn't complain. It amazed him that Orlando even let him through the door.

Gently he deposited him on the bed. Viggo let his eyes roam over the vision before him. He knew he loved this man and he wanted that love to carry through in his every caress. Slowly, almost reverently, he removed every stitch of clothing, his and Orli's. Then he simply looked his fill, adoring the flush that flooded slowly over Orlando's skin. He memorized every inch, trying to decide where to begin.

With a small smile, he let the artist in him take over. Light fingers traced over Orlando's features; the fine cheekbones, his jaw, down the length of his throat. He used his fingers like paintbrushes, swirling them over his lover's olive skin and tantalizing his senses. From head to toe, he did this until Orli was writhing in pleasure. Moans and whimpers filled the air.

Never had anyone made him feel like this, like he was the most beautiful thing they had ever seen. He arched into Viggo's touch, aching for more yet scared to voice his desires. No one had ever cared what he wanted before. They only wanted what he could give them. However, this was different. It was as if Viggo was memorizing every inch of his body. It made him feel... cherished. He couldn't think straight. He could only feel but the emotions were so twisted inside him that he couldn't identify them.

Viggo smiled at Orli's movements. He loved the feel of his lithe body beneath his fingers, smooth, hot and tempting. He took pity on the young man and leaned over, letting his lips and tongue convey his emotions as they followed the paths of his fingers.

He wanted to be different for Orli. He wanted to stand out. He wanted the younger man to remember this moment forever even if he kicked him out come morning. He wanted to leave his indelible mark on Orlando's soul as the young man had done to him.

Kisses and caresses turned into lingering swipes of tongue. Hands became bolder, wrapping around his weeping shaft. Orlando felt as if his body was on fire. No one had ever taken such time with him nor had they cared to. Not even Sean and he was one of the more considerate of Orli's many lovers. The gentleness and reverence in Viggo's touch brought him to tears.

"May I make love to you?" that low voice caressed his ear as Viggo stretched out next to him, his hand still stroking slowly. "Please min engel."

"Yes," Orlando answered, passion making his voice deep and purring, like a well-stroked kitten. He gestured to the nightstand and started to roll over onto his stomach. Confusion filled his dark eyes when Viggo stopped him. He stared up at the other man, waiting.

"No," Viggo whispered, his fingers tracing down the side of Orlando's face. "I want to see your face. I want to watch you as you come. I want to see the pleasure chase across your features and know that I am the cause of it."

For a moment, Orlando couldn't breath. What was this man doing to him? Every gesture, every word out of his mouth, was foreign to him. Viggo was unlike any of Orli's lovers. Confusion rolled over him. He didn't know how to respond. He didn't know what was expected of him. What was he to do?

His thoughts shattered at the first gentle stroke of Viggo's fingers along his entrance. His sense narrowed down to that one sensation. Careful, almost reverent, oil-slicked fingers circled him, sending shivers racing across his skin. Without realizing it, he parted his thighs wider and brought his knees up, offering himself to this incredible man with no sense of vulnerability as with previous lovers.

Gentle penetration instead of hard possession was how Viggo's finger entered his body. Stroke after stroke pushed him higher and higher, to a place he rarely reached. His scream tore through the night as Viggo's mouth claimed his shaft in one long slide. Pleasure shot through him, almost unbearable in its intensity. His fingers clawed at the sheets, tearing them as he abruptly thrust upward into that hot mouth. The most unbearable tongue-lashing followed, making his breath hitch in his chest.

Without thought, he pushed down taking Viggo's finger deep within his body. With careful intent, a second and then a third joined the first. Slowly he was prepared, stretched, treasured. Sensations he had never really experienced in such a loving manner before.

Viggo watched Orlando's face from beneath his lashes. He smiled as best he could as all manners of emotion flashed across the young man's face. His breath came in short pants and Viggo had to hold down his hips. This is how he wanted him. From past conversations, he knew that Orlando rarely received such pleasure from his lovers, always giving of himself. This night was for him. Viggo wanted him to feel his love, not just hear it in his words. He wanted Orlando to know that he was cherished, treasured and would be until the end of time if the young man would only let Viggo love him.

"Please," the word was almost lost in the moans spilling from between Orlando's lips. He panted as he tried to make his need understood. A moan of protest escaped when Viggo's mouth left his cock.

"Please what Orlando?" Viggo asked, continuing to slide his fingers in and out of the young man's passage, stroking his prostrate at every third pass.

"I... "

"You?" he prompted. "Tell me what you want, eskel (love). Tell me what you need and I will give it."

"I... so... incredible... "Orlando moaned his hips riding Viggo's fingers in slow sensuous circles.

"Tell me Orlando," Viggo whispered, almost purring the words.

"You," he panted. "I need you... inside me... now."

"As you wish min engel." Viggo answered.

Slowly he withdrew his fingers chuckling at Orlando's soft moan of protest. With a low growl, he coated his aching shaft and touched the head to his opening. A hiss escaped him at the pleasure, at the knowledge that he was about to join with the one person who had captured his elusive heart.

Circling the opening with the head of his cock Viggo slowly pressed forward. His eyes never left Orlando's face though he ached to watch his body sliding into him. He searched for any sign of pain or discomfort. He wanted nothing to mar this moment.

Slowly he thrust forward, pausing every few moments to give Orlando time to adjust. Finally, with one last push and a low groan, he was seated deep within the younger man's body. Heat wrapped around him and he could feel small tremors shaking Orlando's body.

"Yes," he groaned. "So good min engel (my angel). You feel so right."

Orlando whimpered softly as he felt Viggo seated fully inside him. He felt filled, stretched and complete. He had never felt this way before. Filled and stretched yes, but he had never experienced the wholeness that he felt now. Slowly he moved, lifting his hips and groaning at the shift of Viggo's cock in his ass, pressing against his sweet spot. His hands came up to grip those broad shoulders as he wrapped his legs around Viggo's waist.

Without consciously thinking about it, Orlando pulled Viggo down to him. He captured the other man's mouth in a soul-searing kiss. His tongue dueled and played inside Viggo's mouth. Tasting a musky sweetness on Viggo's tongue, he realized it was his own flavor. A moan tore its way free, vibrating into the other man's mouth. It was answered with a growling purr.

Another shift of his lean hips and Orlando tore his mouth away with a hoarse shout. His legs clenched, pulling Viggo tightly against him. He rocked his hips upward.

"Please," he moaned working his lips down Viggo's throat, his hands clawing down the other man's back.

"Yes min engel," Viggo growled as he buried his face in the curve of Orlando's neck. Pulling back, he thrust forward slowly, causing his lover to let out a wail of pleasure. The sound was music to his ears.

He set a slow steady pace. The groans and whimpers of his lover making him smile. He whispered into Orlando's ear, encouraging the Brit to tell him how he felt, how his body felt. Bracing himself on his arms, he watched the pleasure race across his face. He savored the feel of Orlando's cock pressed between them, rubbing, slicking their stomachs with his precum.

"Come for me Orlando," he purred softly as he thrust faster. "Let me feel your thick seed coating our skin. I want to feel your body clench around me. Take me with you."

Orlando saw sparks of light before his eyes as Viggo hit his sweet spot in rapid succession. His hands dug into his back, his legs clenched around his waist. Throwing back his head, he screamed Viggo's name as his body shattered, coating their stomachs with his essence.

A snap of his hips and Viggo was pulled over the edge. Orlando's body clenched and shuddered around his cock, milking his orgasm from him in rapid bursts of incredible pleasure. He groaned in ecstasy, feeling the absolute rightness of this moment. It was perfect. It was everything making love with your heart's keeper should be.

He collapsed on to Orlando, his arms wrapping tightly around the younger man. Panting, he listened to the staccato beat of his lover's heart, felt the puffs of his breathe on his shoulder. After a few moments, he lifted himself up to his forearms. Looking down, he gasped at the look in Orlando's eyes. Confusion lay there, as well as the hazes of desire. He could see the love in Orlando's eyes and knew then that his love was lost in things he had never experienced before.

Gut instinct told him that he hadn't completely won over Orlando. Somehow he knew that he would have further to go before the man came to his senses and acknowledged his feelings. He would give Orlando that time, but he wouldn't let him forget.

"I love you," he whispered as he wiped the tears from Orli's cheek. "I will always love you."

"I... " Orli started.

"Shhh min engel," he smiled. "You do not have to say anything now. I just want you to know how I feel. I will be here. I will wait for you for as long as it takes. Forever and beyond."

With a gentle kiss, he rolled to the side, taking Orlando with him. He tucked the younger man's head beneath his chin and wrapped his arms tightly around him. He slowly stroked his back, his fingers dancing gently over Orlando's scar, until they both fell asleep.

In the morning, Orlando was gone, as Viggo knew he would be. Yet, he did not feel fear. He did not feel as if all was lost. He could not say how he knew, but he did. He knew that Orlando would return to him. All he had to do was wait and have hope.

"Edro gûr lín min engel," he whispered with a soft smile. "Let me in." (Open your heart - Elvish)(My angel - Danish)

*****

Epilogue

Orlando stood outside the airport staring at his phone. The number was there on speed dial. He didn't know how it had gotten into his phone, but there it was. More than once he had dialed it only to hang up before two rings.

He thought of those blue, blue eyes and that soft voice that caressed his ears like velvet. He remembered those hands running reverently over his skin. Nothing and no one had made him feel as if he was the most important person in their life. No one had made him feel complete.

He had tried to forget, tried to replace him with others in his bed. Nothing had worked. It got to the point where even hard liquor couldn't make him horny enough to fuck someone else. Each lover was compared to him and they fell short. No one had made him laugh. No one had made him bounce with excitement at just seeing him. His life had become all about work. One movie after the next came and went. Hell, he'd even talked to Sean about what had happened while they were filming Troy. That conversation rang clearly in his head.

"Did ye kiss him Orli?" Sean had asked with a smug smile on his face.

"Did I what?" he had stuttered back as he remembered the intensity of their kisses.

"Did ye kiss him?"

"What does that have to do with anything?" he had demanded.

"It has everything to do with it," Sean had laughed. "Ye never kissed me or anyone else ye slept with. Ye told me so yourself. Kisses were for those ye loved."

"When did I say that?"

"When you were drunk mate," Sean had chuckled. "Now, here's my advice and ye can take it or not as ye see fit. Go to him. Tell him ye love him because you know you do. You're just being stubborn about it. Be happy Little One."

Orlando had thought long and hard on that conversation. He'd spoken to Marton and even called Ian. They had both said the same thing. Give Viggo a chance. He would never regret it.

So now, he was standing in an Idaho airport, staring at his cell phone, trying to decide whether he should call first. It had been a couple of years since they'd finished filming. He had several films under his belt. He knew Viggo had been working too. Maybe his feelings had changed.

Robin had advised against it, but he couldn't get Viggo out of his mind. He couldn't forget how he had kissed him, cherished him. Taking a deep breath, Orlando walked out of the airport and hailed a cab. He wasn't going to call. That would give Viggo an opportunity to turn him away, to reject him and his heart. He wasn't that brave.

On the ride to Viggo's ranch, Orlando tried to come up with something to say when he saw him again. Everything sounded pathetic and stupid. He didn't want to sound as desperate for him as he was. He wanted to sound like he knew what he was doing, like he was intelligent enough to make this choice and deal with the consequences, to their lives and their careers.

Orlando experienced a moment of panic when the cab stopped in front of the simple house. Taking a deep breath, he paid the driver and climbed out. The walk to the front door seemed as unending as the bridge of Khazad-dûm.

Finally, he reached the end. Gently placing his bags on the porch, he raised his hand and knocked. For a moment, he didn't hear anything and his heart fell. Then, barely audible over some jazz music that began playing, he heard footsteps.

Butterflies fluttered madly in his stomach. His palms began to sweat and he looked back only to see the cab pulling out of the long driveway. It was too late to back out now. He could only hope everyone was right and he was wrong.

Then the door opened and there he was. Dressed in torn jeans, paint spattered flannel shirt and bare feet stood Viggo. There was a smudge of brown along one cheek and his hair was tousled as if he'd just woken up. He looked beautiful.

"I love you," he blurted. Heat flared in his cheeks and he began to berate himself mentally.

"It's about damn time you realized it," Viggo chuckled. Then he yanked Orlando into his arms, claiming his mouth in the same swooping manner as Aragorn had claimed his Elven love. As he wrapped his arms around Viggo's neck, Orlando came to realize something. He had nothing to prove...

His heart was finally home.

*****

THE END

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