A New... 3

A New Life

by Nancy

URL: http://www.area52hkh.net/asn/nancy/new03.php
Summary: Daniel discovers something unsettling about SG-1's robot counterparts

Dr. Daniel Jackson carefully returned the journals to his shelf. He had been reluctant to read the diaries left by his double, but he couldn't deny the usefulness or necessity of such an intrusion. Jack was right. They did have to know where the SG-1 robots had gone, not only for their own safety and peace of mind, but for the safety of other alien cultures.

Daniel sat back in his chair, his brow furrowed in thought. The journals had been informative, but something wasn't quite right. The feel was all wrong. The early journals, Daniel could see writing himself. They were concise, if not overly descriptive, and interspersed with personal anecdotes of his friends. It was the later journals that concerned Daniel, however. They were too clinical and impersonal. Daniel couldn't put his finger on it, but it was almost as if the robot Daniel was trying to protect himself, or someone else.

"Something's missing," Daniel murmured.

On a whim, he picked up the telephone and dialled.

"Hello, this is Dr. Jackson. I'm fine, thank you. Yes, I was wondering if I received all the cartons from P3X 989. Yes, I'll hold."

Daniel waited patiently and waved a hungry-looking Jack O'Neill into his office.

"I'm on hold," he explained, as Jack sat down and immediately picked up a fragile-looking artifact.

Daniel winced and turned away as Jack nonchalantly tossed the object back and forth between his hands.

Jack grinned and put it down, having achieved the desired reaction from his teammate.

"Yes, I'm still here. Really? Yes, I'd appreciate that. Thank you, thank you very much."

"What's up?" Jack asked.

"That was Storage and Records. Apparently, I didn't receive all the boxes from P3X 989."

"Daniel's stuff?"

"Uh, yeah," Daniel said hesitantly.

"I know. It's weird isn't it? I still get shivers thinking about ourselves out there...doing stuff," Jack said, waving his hands around.

Daniel absently picked up the figurine Jack had been playing with, turning it over in his hands. "They were very close," he said quietly.

"Close to what?" Jack asked, reaching for a shiny object.

"To each other," Daniel said, valiantly refraining from rescuing the obsidian carving from Jack's overzealous fingers.

"Well, why wouldn't they be? It's not as if they had anyone else, other than Harlan. Besides, we're close. I mean...all of us. You and me. Right?" he queried, placing the object down carefully.

"Yeah," Daniel smiled. "It's not like we have a lot of options either. 'Hi, I'm Daniel Jackson. I visit other planets for a living. What do you do?'"

"Are you saying you're tired of my company?" Jack asked, feigning hurt.

"Not at all. It's just that sometimes...you know," Daniel said, blushing.

"Believe me, I know. Change hands," Jack suggested helpfully. "That sometimes makes it...you know...different."

"Ah, yeah. Thanks for the advice, Jack."

"You know, we could always just say screw it and get ourselves a couple of hookers."

"I don't think so, Jack."

"Oh, come on, you're rich," Jack teased.

"Money's got nothing to do with it. It's the whole paying for sex thing," Daniel said, waving his hand. "I don't want to have to pay someone to love me." Daniel shrugged and ducked his head.

Jack's heart did an unexpected flutter and he had the insane urge to tell Daniel that he loved him, and he'd even do it for free.

Daniel suddenly looked up and smiled and damned if Jack's heart didn't jump again. Even more disturbing was the unexpected stirring of his cock.

"My glucose level must be down," Daniel said glibly. "You ready for lunch?"

"Uh, yeah. Don't you have to wait for that box to be delivered?" Crap. Your glucose level may be going down, but I definitely have something that's coming up.

"Oh, right. How could I forget?"

"Glucose?" Jack suggested, grateful that he didn't have to stand up at the moment.

Daniel snickered and grabbed a piece of paper. He jotted a few things down and passed it to Jack.

Jack looked at it and frowned. Hesitantly, he said, "We come in peace, and.where's the bathroom?"

The brilliant smile aimed in his direction melted Jack's heart and emboldened his libido. Oh crap, what the hell's going on with me?

"You keep this up, Jack, and I'm going to have to start putting money in the kitty," Daniel said, pleasure radiating off him in waves.

Jack smiled and shifted uncomfortably. If I keep this up, I'm going to die of embarrassment. "I have a good teacher," he said.

Daniel blushed in surprise and gratitude, and Jack breathed in deep. Oh, yeah. Definite hard-on. Not good. Not good at all.

"Excuse me, Dr. Jackson? I have the box you requested," an airman announced.

"Yes, thank you," Daniel said, launching himself from his seat. He quickly signed for the item and brought it back to his desk.

"I can go on my own," Jack said casually, "if you're anxious to check out the contents."

Daniel looked up from his delivery. Tempted as he was by the offer, he knew it would be rude to agree, but more than that, he didn't want to. He looked forward to his time with Jack. Even though he worked with the man, sometimes days and nights at a time, Daniel cherished the private times they had together. Their friendship had been pretty rocky this past year, but ever since the tragedy with their doubles, things had been going great. Daniel did not want to do anything to jeopardize that.

"Not at all. Come on, let's go. There's probably nothing there anyways," Daniel said dismissively.

"Well, just open the box and take a peek," Jack suggested. "Otherwise, your mind is going to be a million miles away."

"You like me for my mind?" Daniel teased.

"For crying out loud, just open the damn box," he groused. It's not your mind I'm thinking about right now, Daniel. Crap, I'm in big trouble here. Think about something else. Think about.think about. Think about those incredibly long fingers undoing my belt. Shitshitshit.

"Jack?"

"What?" Jack snapped a little too harshly.

"You look." Daniel frowned, unable to find the right words. "Are you okay?"

Jesus, don't give me that concerned look. Why the hell is this happening now?

"A bit of a gut ache," Jack winced, bending over and giving his unruly member a vicious squeeze. "Ouch! Shit! Okay. Ah, yes, that's better," he gasped, tears springing to his eyes.

"God, Jack," Daniel said, jumping to his feet.

"I'm all right, I'm all right," Jack said quickly, waving his hands. "It's passed."

"Maybe you have an ulcer?" Daniel suggested, reluctantly sitting down. "You should get it checked out."

"Trust me, Daniel. It's not an ulcer. So, come on, what's in the box?"

"Oh, um, let's see," Daniel said, peering inside the box. "Some drawings, a few carvings. Ooh, look at this."

Jack smiled indulgently as the young archaeologist oohed and aahed over his treasures.

"What, no books?"

"No," he said disappointed. I was so sure. "Oh, wow."

"What's that?" Jack asked, as Daniel pulled out a wooden box.

"It looks like a puzzle box," Daniel murmured, turning the object over in his hands. "And there's something in here," he added, shaking it gently.

"Hey, I always wanted to make one of those," Jack enthused.

"Really?" Daniel asked, blue eyes staring over the top of his glasses.

"Yeah. Carving, pottery, that sort of thing. I always wanted to do that."

"Really?"

"Yes, really."

"So, why haven't you?"

"No time," Jack shrugged.

"Right," Daniel murmured, forcing his attention back to the object in his hands. His eyes widened in astonishment. "I'll be damned," he whispered.

"What?" Jack asked, leaning forward.

Daniel looked at Jack and smiled. He handed the box to Jack and said, "Looks like you found the time."

Jack took the box and turned it over. He saw 'J. O'Neill' carved into the wood. He whistled in admiration.

"Damn, I'm good. So, do you know how to open it?" Jack asked, handing it back to Daniel.

"Well, I used to have one when I was a kid. I doubt very much if, hey, you made it. You open it," he smiled, thrusting the box towards Jack.

Jack studied the box thoughtfully. After a couple of failed attempts, he was rewarded with a soft thud.

"Oh, joy. A book."

Jack smiled as Daniel greedily snatched up the book.

"What is it? A private diary or something?"

Daniel looked at a note attached to the cover of the book and furrowed his brow.

"What? What does it say?" Jack asked curiously.

"It, um, it says 'To Daniel Jackson, the original one'."

"Original one? I guess that means you."

"I guess," Daniel said absently. He opened the book and his eyes widened in shock. "My God," he whispered.

"What?"

"This.this language. It's not real. At least, not all of it."

"You're not making any sense."

"Sorry. I mean, it's a made-up language. Sort of."

"You're losing me, Daniel," Jack griped.

Daniel blushed and explained," When I was a kid, I made up my own language."

"Now, why doesn't that surprise me?" Jack smiled.

"It's written in Abydonian, Mayan, and, um."

"Danielese?" Jack suggested.

Daniel smiled and nodded.

"So, can you read it?"

"Jack, I wrote it."

"Oh, right. Well?"

"Well, it's, um, you're right. A private diary," Daniel said, as his eyes widened in disbelief.

"What?" Jack demanded.

"What?"

"What did you just read? Your eyebrows damn well just jumped off your head there."

"It's-um-private," Daniel said uncomfortably.

"For crying out loud, Daniel. Is it about me?"

"No," he said hurriedly. "It's-uh-about Teal'c."

"Teal'c? What about Teal'c?"

"I just picked a page at random, Jack. You're going to have to give me more time. I'm a little rusty with the, um, language."

Daniel flipped a few more pages and blushed to his toenails.

"Now what?" Jack demanded, feeling his wayward libido rising to the occasion again. Crap, has he always looked like that when he's embarrassed?

"This can wait," Daniel said, tossing the book back into the box and shoving the whole thing under his desk. "Come on, let's eat," he said, heading to the door.

"Okay, okay. Keep your pants on," Jack said, getting up stiffly. Argh. This can't be happening to me.

****

"Daniel? Oh, Danny?" Jack sing-songed.

"Huh? Oh, I'm sorry. Did you say something?"

"For crying out loud, I've had more stimulating conversations with my toenail clippings."

"You talk to your toenails?"

Jack glared and said, "It's that damn diary, isn't it? You've been acting weird, correction, weirder ever since you looked at it."

"Jack, I just glanced at it," Daniel said defensively.

"And now you can't stop thinking about it. You do remember that we're going off-world tomorrow?"

"I haven't forgotten," Daniel said testily.

"Good. I need you to be with me one hundred percent, Daniel. If your mind's on that damn diary-"

"It won't be," Daniel insisted.

"Okay," Jack acquiesced. "That's all I need to hear."

"Fine," Daniel muttered, poking at his meatloaf.

Sheesh. Touchy. Jack thought sulkily as he savagely attacked his potatoes.

"Jack?"

"What?" he muttered, stabbing the fork into his mouth.

"How much do hookers cost?"

Jack choked and spit out his mouthful of potato.

"Christ, Daniel," he gasped.

"Sorry," Daniel snickered.

Jack wiped the tears from his eyes, took a long drink of water, and glared at his friend.

"You did that on purpose."

"Did not."

"Did too."

"Well, maybe," Daniel conceded, failing to hide a smile.

"Bastard," Jack said lightly. "Just for that I should make you eat these potatoes I spewed out."

"Don't be gross, Jack. Sam and Teal'c are coming this way," Daniel said in a hushed tone.

Jack leaned forward and whispered, "And your point is?"

"Hey, Sam, Teal'c," Daniel said after a quick warning look at Jack.

"Mind if we join you?" Sam asked.

"Of course not, Major. Pull up a stump," Jack said. "Want some potatoes? Ouch! You just kicked me," Jack accused, glaring at Daniel.

"And your point is?" Daniel challenged sweetly.

"Perhaps we should sit at another table, Major Carter," Teal'c suggested.

"Nonsense," Jack said. "We're a team. We eat together, work together, play together, and sleep together, um, sort of, sometimes. Well, you know what I mean," he explained awkwardly as three sets of eyes and raised eyebrows were directed his way.

"Eat your potatoes, Jack," Daniel said dryly.

"No thanks," Jack said, pushing his plate aside. "Gotta watch the waistline. Once on the lips, forever on the hips. Right, Carter?"

"Why are you asking me, sir?" Sam asked indignantly.

"I don't know. You're a woman. You know these things," he said helplessly.

"Are you saying Major Carter has a weight problem, O'Neill?" Teal'c inquired.

"Oh, boy," Daniel murmured, studiously concentrating on his plate.

"Yes, I'd like to hear the answer to that.Colonel."

"Oh, for crying out loud. It's just an expression, isn't it?"

"But why me? Why not Daniel?" she asked reasonably.

"Because Daniel's."

"Daniel's what?" she pressed. "Slim? Lean? Trim?"

"Ye-es," Jack said hesitantly.

"And I'm what? Fat? Pudgy? Sloppy?"

"Carter, damn it. You have a very nice, um, figure. Probably not an ounce of fat on you."

"Thank you, sir."

"You're welcome. Oh my, look at the time," Jack said, glancing at his watch. "Gotta run. Catch you kids later," he said, making a hasty retreat.

"Do you think I was a little hard on him?" Sam grinned.

"Nah, builds character," Daniel said. "Although, we all better be on our best behaviour tomorrow," he said, standing up. "I'm getting some more coffee. Can I get you guys anything?"

"No thanks, I'm fine," Sam said.

"As am I, Daniel Jackson."

Daniel nodded and went to refill his mug. As he stood in line waiting his turn, he observed Sam and Teal'c talking comfortably together, their heads almost touching. His thoughts returned to the diary and the brief snippet he had read. He had told Jack it had been about Teal'c, which was true. What he hadn't said was that Sam was also mentioned, and that the other Daniel had referred to them as lovers.

"Dr. Jackson, is there something wrong?"

"What? Oh, Siler. No, no, I was just thinking about something."

"Well, it's your turn," Sgt. Siler said, indicating the lack of bodies in front of Daniel.

"Sorry," he mumbled and quickly filled his mug.

SG-1 returned from their latest mission intact, apart from a few minor scrapes and bruises. Dr. Janet Fraiser systematically examined and then released, Sam, Teal'c, Jack, and lastly, Daniel.

Jack was just putting his boots on when Daniel entered the locker room.

"A-okay?" Jack asked.

"Fit as a fiddle," Daniel sighed, sinking down onto the bench next to Jack.

"You sure? You look, I don't know, kind of down," Jack said.

"I'm just tired. I feel like I could sleep for days."

"Go home," Jack ordered.

"I've still got my report -"

"That can wait. I'll talk to Hammond."

"Jack, I can-"

"I'll drive you myself," Jack threatened.

Daniel opened his mouth to protest and then snapped it shut.

"Okay, I'll go," he smiled. "Thanks."

"You're welcome."

Daniel kicked off his shoes and began fumbling with his buttons, his eyes half closed.

Jack stifled the urge to help him.

"Daniel?"

The young man looked up questioningly.

"Crap, you didn't get any sleep at all while we were off-world, did you?"

Daniel shrugged guiltily and averted his eyes.

"It's that damn diary, isn't it? You took it with you," he accused.

"I haven't looked at it since I first got it," Daniel protested. I just can't stop thinking about it and I'm afraid to read it.

"Okay," Jack conceded, "but let me know when you're ready. I'll take you home."

"You don't-"

"Don't start with me, Daniel," Jack warned, his finger raised.

Daniel stared defiantly, smiled and said, "Yes, sir."

Jack raised his eyebrows, considered Daniel's military response and shook his head.

"Nah, doesn't sound right."

"I tried," Daniel shrugged.

Daniel watched Jack leave and once again reminded himself how lucky he was to have the veteran soldier as a friend. Jack genuinely cared about him, not just as a valued member of his team, but also as an individual. Daniel had often thought what he would do without Jack. It wasn't that he liked to think about such a scenario, but sometimes a situation would warrant it. Case in point, Edora. Jack had been lost for three months. Not lost per se, but he had been lost to Daniel, and that had scared the hell out of the young archaeologist. After losing Sha're, Daniel had grabbed onto Jack O'Neill like a lifeline. Life hadn't been kind to either of them and Daniel liked to think that their mutual needs had drawn them to each other. With Jack's unflagging help and determination, Daniel had found a home at the SGC, and a family with SG-1. The four years he'd been at the SGC had not been easy ones. All four members of SG-1 had been dealt severe emotional blows, but the Fates had been especially unkind to Daniel Jackson.

"Jesus, Jackson. Get a grip," Daniel admonished himself. Sinking into melancholy would only earn him a one-way ticket to the infirmary, or worse, MacKenzie. Why am I even thinking about these things? Jack and I are tight. Tighter than we've been for a long time. Is it the diary? Why am I afraid to read it? Sam and Teal'c were lovers. Okay, what's wrong with that? That's good, isn't it? That means Jack and Sam weren't, right? Maybe. Maybe Sam, the other Sam, boinked them all.

"Boinked?" Daniel choked aloud. "Crap, I've been hanging around Jack too long. God, Sam would kill me."

Muttering to himself, Daniel shed the last of his clothes and padded into the shower room. He set the water temperature to a nice hot/warm. He wanted a long shower. He had his own soap, but noticed Jack had left his in the stall. He looked down at his bar, which was much smaller than Jack's was. He smiled guiltily. Leaving his soap outside, safe and dry, he immersed himself in a nice long shower, using liberal amounts of Jack's soap.

The stall smelled like Jack and he found that oddly comforting. He felt safe. As the steam enveloped him, he felt another surge of melancholy. He missed Jack. The man had only been gone twenty minutes, but Daniel missed him. Daniel pondered this revelation as he soaped up his genitals. In fact, he realized with a start, he was spending an inordinate amount of time washing that particular region of his anatomy.while thinking about Jack.

"Shit!" Daniel yelped and dropped the soap, his eyes fixed on his enormous and painful erection. Oh, God. What the hell is this? I'm thinking about Jack and this happens? Oh, shit. It must be something else. It's been a long time that's all. I just got carried away with the lather. And the stroking. Yeah, that's it. Whew, scared me for a second. God, what would Jack think? Wait a minute. Why is it still there? Why isn't it going down? And why am I thinking of Jack going down on me?

"Oh, God," Daniel moaned, as he pumped his penis furiously, squirting out his release.

"Shitshitshit," he moaned, sinking to the floor, the strong jets of water washing away his tears and his shame.

****

Daniel reached under his desk and pulled out the box from P3X 989. He removed the diary and the puzzle box and placed them on his desk. He caressed the soft grain of the wooden box and smiled wistfully. Did Jack make this for me? I mean, the other me. The other Jack. He placed the box down gently and picked up the diary. He stared at its cover, 'To Daniel Jackson, the original one'. He stuffed it into his jacket pocket. He'd read it at home. Not here. He glanced at the phone. He knew he should phone Jack. He was supposed to phone Jack. He reached out, his fingers hovering over the handset. He dropped his hand back to his side with a sigh. He couldn't face Jack. Not after his debasement in the shower.

The phone rang and he snatched it up before thinking. Damn. He hesitated slightly before answering.

"Hello?"

"You ready?"

"Oh, uh, Jack. Um-"

"Sounds like you spent too much time in the shower there, Danny. Shrivelled up the brain cells."

Daniel winced and said, "Sorry, I was thinking about something."

"This is a surprise," Jack said good-naturedly.

Daniel smiled in spite of his discomfort.

"Jack, you don't have to give me a ride."

"I want to. Stay there. I'll come and get you," Jack said and hung up the phone before another protest could be voiced.

Daniel slowly put the phone down. He sounded normal. That's a good thing. He doesn't know. Know what? That I'm in love with him. Am I? Is that what this is? Love? Lust? Curiosity? God, just don't think about it.

Shaking his head, Daniel sat down and began to work on his report. He had all night to think about the.other.

****

"Now, you're not going to stay up all night and read that diary, are you?" Jack inquired.

Daniel looked up from unfastening his seatbelt. "Why would you -"

His query was cut off as Jack reached over and pulled the book out of Daniel's jacket pocket.

"Oh," he said sheepishly. "Just some of it," he confessed.

"The juicy bits?" Jack said with a lecherous lift of the eyebrow.

Daniel blushed and ducked his head, and Jack felt a distinct pang in his heart and in his groin. Damn, he's doing it to me again.

"Thanks for the lift, Jack," Daniel said, desperately wanting to invite the older man inside.

"No problem," Jack replied casually, desperately wanting Daniel to invite him inside.

"So."

"So."

"See you tomorrow?"

"I'll pick you up at six."

"Six?" Daniel said in alarm.

"Yeah. You're buying me breakfast," Jack said grinning.

Daniel smiled back. "I guess that's fair. See you at six. Thanks again, Jack," he said stepping out of the truck.

"Any time, Danny."

Jack's tone was almost beseeching and Daniel's stomach did a little flip-flop, a pleasant sensation in a queasy sort of way.

Jack waited until Daniel entered the building before driving away. He would've waited until Daniel's lights went on, but didn't think his friend would appreciate the gesture. Besides, he'd then feel compelled to sit there until the lights went out and he knew damn well that wouldn't be until Daniel finished reading that blasted diary. Jack had to admit, he was pretty damn curious about that diary himself. He drove home thinking about Daniel and their doubles, and what his double had confided on that fateful day; the words his Daniel had told the robot Daniel: 'You'll never find a truer friend than Jack O'Neill'. Jack smiled at the memory. Daniel always did underestimate himself and both Jacks knew that. Jack's vision blurred as he remembered his double's heartfelt words: 'Daniel Jackson was the truest friend I ever had. Watching him die.well, let's just say that the best part of me died along with him'.

Jack swiped at his eyes, clearing his vision. My Daniel's here. He's alive. He's well. I'm not going to lose him. My Daniel. Damn it, when did I get so possessive? Maybe losing him on way too many occasions does that to a person. Crap. Why am I getting all worked up? What am I afraid of? The stupid diary, that's what. It's obviously private. Very private. Oh, crap. Now Danny's going to find out about my sudden interest in Chinese checkers and learning Goa'uld. The Jack and Daniel doubles were close. Too close? I'm jealous of a damn robot, for crying out loud. No, they weren't robots. They were us. God, what if Daniel and Teal'c were lovers? Shit. I'm not making any sense.

Jack pulled off to the side of the road and cut his engine. He banged his head back against the headrest. "Oh, crap. I know what this is. I'm in love. I'm in love with Daniel."

****

Daniel poured himself a large mug of coffee and sat down with the diary. He opened the book. His coffee went cold. He was mesmerized. No, he was in shock. Entranced. Thrilled. Scared shitless. There would be no sleeping tonight.

****

Daniel answered the door bleary-eyed.

Jack frowned. "You did it, didn't you? You stayed up all night reading that damn thing," he accused.

"Uh, no," Daniel said hesitantly. "Actually, it only took me a few hours to translate. I just.had trouble sleeping afterwards."

Jack cocked his head. Is he blushing?

"Is it something you want to," Jack waved his hands around, "you know, talk about?"

"Maybe sometime." I really can't talk about it now.

"Cool. No rush. So, are you hungry?"

"Starving," Daniel confessed.

"Come on, let's go."

"I'll just get my jacket. Back in a sec."

Jack waited for Daniel and together they walked to his truck.

"Denny's?" Jack suggested.

"Oh, come on, Jack. I'm not that cheap," Daniel exclaimed.

Jack laughed and clapped him on the shoulder, letting his hand rest there easily.

"Any suggestions?"

"I thought we could try that new place on the highway."

"The truck stop? Betty's Good Eats?" Jack asked in surprise.

"What can I say? The name intrigues me," Daniel smiled, thinking how good Jack's hand felt on his shoulder.

"You're on," Jack grinned, squeezing his shoulder before letting go. Oh, man. I'm definitely in love or something. Can't wipe this stupid grin off my face.

****

Jack squeezed his truck in between a couple of semis.

"A crowded parking lot's a good sign, right?" Daniel asked hesitantly.

"Guess we're about to find out."

The two men entered the crowded and surprisingly quiet eatery.

"I've got a nice little booth for you boys right this way," the hostess said breezily, walking down the aisle.

Jack and Daniel looked at each other and shrugged.

"After you," Jack said graciously.

They hurried after the hostess.

"Thank you," Daniel said, as he slipped gracefully into the booth.

"Thanks, uh, Betty?" Jack guessed.

"Heavens no," she blushed. "My name is Sheila. That's Betty behind the counter."

Both men turned and their eyes widened at the stunning woman captivating a group of enamoured truckers.

"My God, it's Rita Hayworth," Jack breathed.

"That's her husband over there," Sheila whispered, as she poured them some coffee.

"My God, it's Arnold Schwarzenegger," Daniel mimicked, smiling at the large, muscled behemoth. "Too bad, Jack."

Jack frowned and said, "Look at the menu, Daniel."

Sheila laughed and said, "I'll be back in a few minutes to take your order."

"She's not what I expected," Daniel said. "Betty, that is."

"How so?"

"Well, I kind of thought she'd be male, a good two hundred and fifty pounds, tattooed, and arm pit hair down to here."

"You really need to get out more, Daniel," Jack grimaced. "Whoa, look at the size of those meals," Jack whispered as a couple of steaming plates whisked by the table.

"Jack, you're drooling."

"I am not. Good choice, Danny," Jack said in admiration as another heaped plate whooshed by.

"I don't know," Daniel said doubtfully. "I think you might have to wheel me out. I wonder if they have kid's portions or senior's."

"Are you implying that you're the kid and I'm the senior?" Jack asked coolly.

"What? No," Daniel said defensively. "I'm an archaeologist, not a trucker. I can't eat all, damn, there must be ten pancakes on that plate," Daniel said in awe, his eyes following the plate to its recipient.

"That guy weighs less than Carter," Jack whispered. "Must have high metabolism."

"Made up your minds?" Sheila asked.

"Yes, I'll have the Lumberjack Special," Jack said enthusiastically.

Daniel's eyes darted to Jack's menu choice and they widened in horror.

"Should I make that two?" Sheila asked.

"God, no. Um, I'll just have-"

"You're not just having toast, Daniel," Jack warned.

"All right. All right. I'll, uh, have eggs Benedict, please with uh-fruit cup?" he asked appealingly, ignoring Jack's groan.

"Sure thing. Would you like your eggs soft?"

"Yes, please. Thank you."

"Fruit cup?" Jack said derisively after their waitress left.

"I figure I'll have to help you finish yours. Lumberjack Special? God, Janet would have a fit."

"I've always liked the name." Jack shrugged.

"Lumberjack?"

"Yeah, it's so, you know, rugged and outdoorsy. You can just smell the clean mountain air," Jack said, taking a deep breath.

"Squealing chainsaws. Trees crashing to their death," Daniel added.

Jack glared and Daniel laughed. Jack felt that little pleasant roiling in his gut again.

Daniel suddenly blushed and ducked his head.

"What?" Jack prodded.

Daniel looked up and smiled. "I was just thinking of you as a lumberjack. Like in the old days? I can actually see it, too. You do look good in plaid."

Now it was Jack's turn to blush. "Um, thank you. You, uh, look good in plaid too."

Daniels eyebrows rose and Jack explained. "You know that blue and black one you sometimes wear? It's, uh, nice." Nice? He's freaking gorgeous in it.

"Oh, that one. Sam says it brings out the blue, um."

"In your eyes," Jack finished.

"Yeah," Daniel murmured, feeling his cheeks flush again.

"She's right," Jack said quietly.

Daniel stared, afraid of what he was seeing in the older man's eyes, and then afraid of only seeing what he hoped to see.

"Here you go, boys," Sheila said, placing down two large platters.

"That's a fruit cup?" Daniel asked in amazement at the colourful mound of fresh fruit.

"You should see our bowl," she laughed. "Enjoy. I'll be back with some more coffee."

"Jack?"

Jack was staring in disbelief at his plate. "How's your fireman's carry, Daniel?"

"You don't have to eat it all," he grinned.

"Mr. Betty might not take it kindly if I don't finish it."

"Relax, you can take him with one hand tied behind your back," Daniel said dismissively.

Jack grinned, absurdly pleased with the young man's faith.

"Stop grinning and start eating," Daniel ordered. "This is going to take awhile," he said, tucking into his eggs Benedict.

****

"Next time let's just split a meal," Jack groaned, buckling up his seatbelt.

"I can't believe you ate the whole thing," Daniel said in awe.

"It tasted too damn good to waste," Jack said, undoing his belt and releasing the top button. "Ahh, much better," he sighed.

"Do you want me to drive?" Daniel asked in amusement.

"Nah, just give me a couple of minutes."

"You're not going to make it."

Jack rolled his head sideways to look at Daniel quizzically.

"You'll fall asleep in the briefing. I'll bet money on it," he smiled.

"Oh, crap. The briefing," Jack moaned, closing his eyes. "I just want to sleep for two days."

Daniel took the opportunity to study the man beside him and he liked what he saw. Truth is, he desired what he saw. Jack was extremely good-looking. Daniel had always known that on some level. But now, now he was beautiful, and the desire to touch was painful. Daniel's mind buzzed with passages from his double's diary. Jack and Daniel had become lovers, as did Sam and Teal'c. Their love had been real and genuine. There were no military taboos to contend with, only the memories of the real SG-1. They took those memories and built on them and found love. Could it happen to them? Not a hope in hell, Daniel thought glumly, hot tears filling his eyes. He turned away abruptly, blinking back the offending tears.

"Daniel?"

"Yeah?" he grunted, staring out the window.

"You okay?"

Daniel's heart clenched as it always did when Jack's tone softened to genuine concern.

"Yeah. Must've had some pepper on my fingers or something," he murmured, wadding some tissue into his eyes.

Jack closed his eyes. Daniel was hurting, and when Daniel hurt, Jack hurt. He opened his eyes and resisted the urge to reach out and touch the distraught man.

"Okay," he sighed and started his truck. He knew what was bothering Daniel. It was the diary. Jack hadn't mentioned it during breakfast because there didn't seem to be a need; they'd been enjoying themselves. Not for the first time, Jack wished he had asked more questions of his double. He never thought robots could love. Hell, he never dreamt of it, but recent events had drastically altered that view. Harlan's tears had been real. His own double's sorrow at Daniel's death had been real. They had been soul mates. They had been what Jack secretly believed he and Daniel were. But lovers? Why the hell not? Jack thought. He glanced over at his young friend and felt such a longing to touch and to comfort him that it brought tears to his own eyes. Crap, maybe that's the problem. Maybe they were lovers and Danny's afraid. Afraid that it could happen to us,or maybe, to just one of us. Oh, shit. I was practically drooling over his damn, blue plaid shirt. What if I embarrassed or disgusted him? He didn't seem to mind. Damn it.

Jack pulled out into traffic. He was relieved to see Daniel settle back in his seat, his face composed and in control. Ten minutes later, Jack pulled over to the side of the road.

Daniel looked at Jack curiously.

"Daniel, I'm only going to mention this once," he said, glancing at his passenger. "If there's anything you need to talk about, anything in that diary or whatever, I'm here. Any time. Any place. If there's anything bothering you, I want to help. Okay?"

Daniel stared back and swallowed his fears. "Doing anything tonight?" he asked tentatively.

"I am now," Jack smiled, surprised, pleased, and scared to death of his friend's response.

Daniel paced back and forth in his kitchen. There was no real reason for him to be in the kitchen. Jack was bringing pizza, the beer was in the fridge, and the coffeemaker was just waiting to be turned on. Daniel wished he had turned down Jack's offer to pick up the pizza and had cooked something instead. At least it would help take his mind off the uneasy feeling of impending doom.

Don't be an ass. It's not you and Jack you'll be talking about. It's them. The other guys. Just because their lives diverged in a particular direction doesn't mean ours will. But then that's the problem, isn't it? You want what they had.

Daniel stopped his pacing.

"Do I? Is that what I really want or am I just curious? Forever seeking that elusive 'happily ever after'?" He looked down at his shirt, his blue plaid shirt.

"What the hell am I doing?" he snorted disgustedly. "I'm acting like a love-struck teenager."

Shaking his head, Daniel strode to his bedroom to change his shirt. His determined step was arrested by the doorbell.

Oh, God, it's Jack. He's early.

Daniel dove into his room, grabbed a sweater and hastily shrugged into it, effectively burying the blue plaid.

"Come on, Daniel! The pizza's getting cold!" Jack shouted through the door, knocking loudly for emphasis.

"Hey," Daniel said, opening the door. "Sorry, I was in the bathroom."

"No problem. Ready to eat now, or do you want to put these in the oven?"

Daniel frowned, seriously considering the question. Eat first, tell Jack, then throw up? Tell Jack, lose my appetite, and get nauseous from the smell of pizza, and then throw up? Daniel's stomach growled ominously thus settling the debate.

"Eat now," Jack grinned.

Daniel blushed and murmured, "Excuse me."

****

Their appetites sated, the two men leaned back in their respective chairs and waited. Jack waited for Daniel to bring up the subject of the diary. Daniel waited for the butterflies in his stomach to settle down.

"Aren't you a little warm in that?" Jack asked, motioning to Daniel's sweater and the distinctive sheen of sweat on his flushed face.

Daniel reddened even more and glanced down at his sweater.

"Take it off before you pass out," Jack suggested.

Knowing that his hesitation would only make matters worse, Daniel complied. He took his glasses off, reached down with both hands and yanked the sweater up and over his head.

Jack's eyes widened and his heart did its little loop-to-loop at the sight of the blue plaid shirt. Aw, jeez, Danny. You did that for me?

By the time the sweater was off, Daniel's face was a becoming shade of pink.

Aware of his friend's discomfiture, Jack's only comment was, "That must feel better."

Daniel smiled, thankful that he wasn't wearing his glasses so he couldn't see Jack's expression. He reached for his glasses, put them on and risked a furtive glance at Jack. He saw only his friend and the restless butterflies finally took flight.

"Would you like a liqueur with your coffee?" Daniel asked.

"Hey, now you're talking," Jack said approvingly. "A little sambucca?"

"In, or on the side?"

"In."

"Coming right up," Daniel smiled, pleased to make Jack happy, but also knowing damn well he was stalling.

Jack glanced quickly around while Daniel was in the kitchen. He couldn't see the diary anywhere. Don't push it. He'll bring it up when he's ready.

Daniel came back with their drinks and raised his eyebrow at the sight of Jack looking through one of his archaeology journals.

"It has lots of pictures," Jack said defensively. Privately he thought, Your name should be all over these damn things, Daniel. It's just not fucking fair.

"I'll remember that for Christmas," Daniel remarked, placing his coffee down on the table. "I'll be back in a sec."

Jack took a sip and felt the warmth of the coffee and liqueur down to his toes, but he knew a certain archaeologist was responsible for most of the warmth he was currently feeling. Maybe I should open a window.

His idle thoughts dissipated when Daniel returned, the infamous diary clutched in his hand.

Daniel sat down and smiled self-consciously.

"This would be a lot easier if you could read this," he said, indicating the book.

"Daniel, you don't have to tell me anything," Jack said graciously. "It wasn't addressed to me." But God knows what I'll do if you don't.

"Yes, Jack, I do. You have a right to know." And God help me, I need you to know because I can't handle this knowledge alone.

"Okay," Jack nodded, his stomach tightening in anticipation.

"Remember when I said something about Teal'c?"

"Remember? Your eyes damn near popped out of your head."

"Yes, well." he said flustered. "Okay, not counting Harlan, P3X 989 was inhabited by three men and one woman."

"You mean 'us'," Jack said helpfully.

"Uh, yes. Four, um, anatomically correct 'us' that possessed our knowledge and life experiences."

"O-kay," Jack said hesitantly.

"They lived together twenty-four hours a day, ostensibly forever."

"They got a little short-changed," Jack said bitterly.

"Yes, they did," Daniel agreed solemnly. "Anyway, they apparently had, um, urges that they, uh, acted upon," he explained, wishing this night was over.

"Urges?" Jack repeated. "You mean, as in," he asked, making a crude but effective gesture with his hands.

"Uh, yes."

"But there was only one woman."

"And three men," Daniel reminded.

Jack's face paled. "Oh crap, we didn't all boink Carter, did we?" he asked, horrified.

Daniel laughed and he felt some of the tension ease, or maybe it was the sambucca. Whatever it was, it loosened his tongue.

"No, Jack. Sam's honour is.was intact. Let's just say that Teal'c 'got the girl'."

"Carter and Teal'c?" Jack's eyes widened at the thought. "Wow. Way to go, Junior." He reached for his drink and took a large swallow. "So, if Teal'c got Carter, that means that you and I got.bupkus?" he asked with a lift of his eyebrow.

"Ah, no," Daniel said, feeling all this tension rushing back. "We.we, um.we got each other." Okay, I said it. It's out. Here's where the shit hits the fan.

Jack's hand started to tremble and he placed his mug down forcefully.

Daniel flinched when he felt the thud of Jack's mug hit the table and he wanted to die. Oh, God, he's angry. What the hell was I thinking? Me and Jack? How could I be so stupid?

Jack clasped his hands together and said, "You're saying that we.the other Jack and Daniel.were lovers?"

Daniel nodded, unable and unwilling to look at Jack.

"Daniel?"

"Yes," he said, looking up. "They were lovers."

Jack swallowed hard. Tread carefully. Don't blow this. "That's.nice. I'm glad they were happy. I assume they were happy?"

Daniel cocked his head, his brow furrowed. "Yes, very. You're-you're not upset?"

"Why should I be?" Jack shrugged. "It's not like it was us." Goddamnit, that's not what I meant to say!

Something flickered in Daniel's bright blue eyes. "No," he said softly. "They weren't us."

"So, uh, when did all this happen?" Jack asked, desperate to keep Daniel talking as well as try to extricate his foot from his mouth.

"About six months after we left. It.it just kind of happened."

"One day it was Chinese checkers and the next." Jack waved his hand weakly.

Daniel's eyes flashed with hurt and anger.

"You knew?" he accused.

"No! No, Daniel. I swear to God," Jack said hastily. Crap, why can't I say anything right? Try telling him the truth, damnit. "All right, he told me you liked Chinese checkers, but he never said anything about the.other. At least, not in so many words," he added.

"What does that mean?"

Jack shifted uncomfortably in his chair. "He just said some things."

"What things?" Daniel pressed.

"For crying out loud, Daniel. Things. Stuff I already knew," he quietly, looking down at his hands.

The silence in the room unnerved Jack and he looked up.

Daniel's arms were wrapped tight around his chest. He was withdrawing. Jack was losing him.

"He-he said that you, I mean his Daniel, was the best friend he ever had and that when he died, the best part of him died with him."

Daniel's sorrowful blue eyes gazed thoughtfully at Jack and the older man breathed a sigh of relief at the flicker of hope that now shone out of them.

"Like I said, nothing I didn't know already," Jack said softly.

Daniel flicked his eyes away from the dark emotion in Jack's eyes.

"He told me you liked Chinese checkers and that you taught him and Carter how to speak Goa'uld. I.I guess I wanted what he had." Jack could see the tension drain out of his young friend's posture and he pressed on.

"Daniel," Jack said gently. "Are you afraid what happened between our doubles will happen between us?" Your friendship's more important to me than anything, Danny. If I have to cut the damn thing off I will. I'm not going to lose you. I can't. I won't.

"Danny?" he prodded even more gently.

Daniel finally looked at him, his eyes huge and shimmering, and Jack ached to hold him and comfort him.

"No, I'm afraid that it won't," Daniel whispered.

Time stood still for Jack. He heard a clock ticking somewhere. He felt the heavy hammering of his own heart and the blood rushing in his ears. The sight of tears slowly tracking down Daniel's cheeks jolted him to awareness. He was at Daniel's side in an instant, his arms encircling his friend.

Daniel couldn't move in the crushing embrace. His initial stiffness of surprise swiftly melted and he leaned heavily into the solid weight of his friend, his tears unashamedly running their course. When he felt the arms loosen slightly he brought his own arms up and hugged Jack tightly.

Jack shifted his arms to accommodate Daniel. The sensation of his best friend's arms going around him was the biggest high he had ever experienced in his life. He renewed his crushing grip as his own tears spilled over. He couldn't believe this was happening to him. He couldn't believe how much he wanted this. He felt as if he had just opened his eyes on a whole new life; a new life that was just him and Daniel. When the time felt right, Jack released his grip and sat back, giving his friend some breathing space.

Daniel sat up, sniffled and rubbed his eyes.

"You okay?" Jack asked softly, rubbing his hand gently up and down Daniel's arm.

Daniel looked into the warm, concerned eyes and said, "I'm scared to death."

"Of me?" Jack asked worriedly.

"You. Us. These.feelings I have."

Jack looked at his hand as it absently caressed the soft flannel shirt. He looked up into the wide blue eyes.

"Did you wear this for me?"

Daniel blushed and ducked his head. "I tried to change but you were early."

Jack felt his eyes sting and he smiled. "I'm glad. I can't remember the last time someone did that for me."

Daniel looked up and smiled, his flushed cheeks warming Jack's heart.

"I'll be honest, Daniel," he said sitting back. "I'm scared too. Ever since I heard the robot Daniel had been killed I've had this deathly fear of losing you. Even more than usual," he added quietly.

"I guess it kind of opened my eyes. I look at you and I see the best friend I've always seen, but I also see the most.desirable human being I've ever seen," he said, his face flushing. Jack reached out and placed the back of his fingers on Daniel's cheek. "I want you in my life, Daniel," he whispered. He closed his eyes and took a deep breath. He exhaled slowly and opened his eyes, eyes dark with desire. "I think I'm in love with you."

Daniel gently grasped the trembling fingers and brought them to his lips.

The soft, unexpected contact jolted through Jack's being like an electric shock. He stared enraptured as Daniel brought his hand down and held it against his own chest. Jack closed his eyes and felt Daniel's heartbeat reverberate through his hand, felt the warmth and love in the simple contact.

Daniel swallowed hard, feeling the warm press of Jack's hand on his chest. He closed his eyes. He wanted this so bad. He felt Jack's fingers cup the muscle of his breast and he shivered. His eyes flicked open to see Jack looking at him intently. Looking through him.

"Can I kiss you?" Jack asked hoarsely.

Daniel's heart raced and his mouth went dry. Oh, God, it's happening. He licked his lips and Jack took that as a 'yes'.

Jack leaned in, never taking his eyes off Daniel's. The young man's eyes were wide and dark with passion.

Daniel's nostrils flared slightly at the warm, spicy scent of aftershave. Nothing had ever smelt so good before. Jack's warm breath caressed his face. He closed his eyes.

Jack turned his head slightly, closed his eyes and tentatively brushed the flushed, moist lips. The contact was brief, but oh, so sweet.

Daniel reflexively clutched the hand against his chest as the most incredible sensation flooded his body. Jack had kissed him.

Jack felt the hand covering his tighten and he opened his eyes. Two huge blue eyes stared back. Eyes full of wonder, hope, fear, and joy. Daniel's eyes.

Daniel removed his glasses and set them aside, his gaze never once leaving Jack.

"God, Danny," Jack whispered, swallowing convulsively.

Daniel leaned forward, one slender hand wrapping around Jack's neck while the other still clutched possessively to his hand.

Jack shivered at the touch and closed his eyes as the incredibly soft lips claimed his own. A low moan escaped, causing his lips to part slightly. Immediately, a hot, probing tongue slipped in and he groaned in ecstasy, widening his mouth to take in more of the hot, pliable flesh. His free hand mirrored Daniel's and he pulled the young archaeologist in tight and ravished his mouth.

Daniel moaned in pleasure as Jack's tongue darted in and staked its claim. It was so much better than he had believed possible. So much better than he had dared to dream. Jack was kissing him, devouring him, and nothing had ever felt so good, or so right. He slipped his hand out of Jack's grasp and wrapped it around the older man's shoulders, drawing him in tight against his chest.

Jack eagerly reciprocated and crushed Daniel to his chest. They kissed long and they kissed hard.

They broke the kiss and held each other close, their chests heaving and their breath, hot, panting gasps on each other's neck. No words were spoken. No words could describe what had just happened. Finally, they released each other and sat back.

"Wow," Jack murmured, his flushed face reddening further.

Daniel blushed and ducked his head. "Yeah," he smiled.

"That was.that was.," Jack said, shaking his head.

"Wow?" Daniel smiled.

"Yeah," Jack sighed.

"Listen," Jack said, rubbing Daniel's arm. "I-uh, left something in my truck. I'll be back in minute," he said, punctuating his remark with a soft kiss.

Apprehensive blue eyes looked at him and he smiled knowingly. No way, Daniel. I am not running out on you.

"Make us some more coffee, okay?"

"Okay," Daniel whispered, the touch of Jack's mouth still tingling on his lips.

Daniel watched Jack leave and couldn't stop the twinge of fear that their lives had been inexorably changed.again. Discovering a gateway to planets was one thing and a piece of cake compared to discovering you were in love with your best friend, your best friend of the same gender.

Jack took the stairs instead of the elevator. It gave his body something to do while his mind raced every which way. He had kissed Daniel. Kiss my ass. You damn near sucked his tonsils out. Jack had been imprisoned, tortured, and left for dead. All pretty minor stuff compared to this life-altering realization that he was in love with Daniel.

"Damn," he murmured, as a sudden wave of dizziness had him leaning against the wall.

****

Daniel brewed a fresh pot of coffee and then stepped out onto the balcony. The air was cool and he shivered, goosebumps rising on his arms. He saw Jack at his truck and he smiled. He knew damn well the soldier was the reason for his goosebumps.

****

Jack leaned back against his truck, enjoying the cool air. Inside, he was as warm as toast. It had been a long time since he felt that warm, fluttery sensation.

"Damn," he whispered, smiling and shaking his head. He really was in love.

He opened the door, reached for the package on the passenger seat and hesitated. He pulled back and checked his watch. Ten o'clock already? Oh, crap. Am I supposed to stay the night? Is that pushing things? Should I move my truck?

****

Daniel wrapped his arms around himself and shivered. Just watching Jack from a distance got his pulse racing. He had never kissed a man before, at least not in passion. He longed to do more with Jack, but he wasn't going to push. That they had even come this far astounded him. Not only had they actually kissed, but also things finally seemed to be going in Daniel's favour. Or, maybe not. Daniel's heart skipped a beat as he saw Jack get into his truck. He stared in disbelief. He's leaving. He's scared. He made a mistake and he's leaving. Daniel clenched the railing in denial, his knuckles whitening.

"No," he whispered. "Jack wouldn't do that." He abruptly turned, not willing to face the possibility that Jack would drive away.

****

Jack put his key into the ignition and then sat back in disgust.

"What the hell am I doing?" So what if someone sees my truck parked outside all night? It sure as hell won't be for the first time, and God willing, it won't be the last.

Jack looked up at Daniel's apartment, just in time to see the young man leave his balcony and return inside.

"Oh, crap."

Jack snatched the package and ran.

****

Daniel returned to his kitchen and watched the coffee drip. He didn't leave. He didn't leave. He began to wash what few dishes they had used. It was a small distraction, but a distraction nonetheless.

****

Jack ran up the stairs two at a time; there wasn't time to wait for the elevator. He paused briefly outside Daniel's door. He needed to catch his breath and he needed to get his story straight.

For crying out loud, just tell him the truth.

****

Daniel heard the door open and that niggling little fear faded to the background. He felt, rather than saw, Jack enter the kitchen. He turned, and was not prepared for the sight of a worried and scared looking Jack.

"Jack?"

"I-uh-I saw you on the balcony."

Daniel merely stared and Jack added, "From my truck. From inside my truck."

"Oh."

"I thought, you know, that you might have thought I was taking off, or something," Jack explained anxiously.

Daniel stuffed his hands in his pockets and looked down.

"Well, I won't lie and say the thought didn't cross my mind." He smiled self-consciously and looked up. "But then I remembered."

"Remembered?"

"The way you held me. The way you kissed me." Daniel blushed and looked down at the floor. He felt Jack draw near.

"You mean.like this?" Jack asked, wrapping his arms around Daniel and kissing long and deep.

"Yeah," Daniel gasped, "like that."

"No one in their right mind would want to leave this," Jack murmured, hugging Daniel close to his chest.

"So, what were you doing?" Daniel asked, soaking up Jack's love like a sponge.

"Being an ass."

"You didn't know if you were expected to stay the night and thought maybe you should move your truck, just in case?" Daniel guessed.

"For crying out loud, Daniel. Why do you ask me things when you already know the answer?" Jack groused.

"Because it drives you nuts."

"This has become your life's ambition, hasn't it?" Jack asked, as he pulled back to look Daniel in the eye.

"One of them," he conceded, his eyes twinkling.

Jack shook his head fondly, marvelling at this huge change in his life.

"So, what did you leave in your truck?" Daniel asked, reddening under Jack's adoring gaze.

"It's in the living-room. I'll go get it."

While Jack retrieved the package, Daniel poured their coffee.

"Here," Jack said, offering the box to Daniel.

"It's heavy," Daniel commented as he held it in his hands.

"Open it."

Daniel placed the box on the table, opened it and peered inside.

Jack watched with delight as Daniel's little smile of curiosity at the bag of marbles widened into a full-fledged grin as he opened the hinged box, revealing the Chinese checkerboard.

"It was with some of my double's things. According to Harlan, your double got mine to make it. Told him it would be a lot easier than making a chess set and that he might even win a game," Jack explained.

"Well, that proves we're different," Daniel said adamantly. "I would never say anything like that."

"Right, and what planet were you born on?"

Daniel laughed and traced the woodwork with his fingertips.

Jack felt a thrill of anticipation at what that must feel like.

"We have a set at my place. I thought we should have one here, too,"

Jack said.

Daniel looked up and smiled. "That's sweet."

"I wasn't going for sweet," Jack grumbled.

"Well, it's sweet anyways. Up for a game?"

Oh, I think I'm up for more than that. "Sure."

"Do you think they'd mind us using it?" Daniel asked seriously.

"Not at all. I think it's what they'd want. I know it's what I'd want. And if you say that's sweet I may have to hurt you," Jack threatened.

"You know you're cute when you're embarrassed," Daniel teased.

"For crying out loud! Just start the damn game."

"Should we make a wager?" Daniel asked.

"Such as?" Jack asked suspiciously.

"Well," Daniel said quietly as he placed his pieces on the board. "I was thinking that the loser could give the winner a full body massage.nude." He glanced up and smiled shyly, his cheeks colouring. "That way.no one loses."

Jack swallowed hard. "I'm in," he croaked.

Daniel dazzled him with a smile and Jack leaned over impulsively and kissed him softly on the lips. Oh, God am I in.

"Um, best out of one?" Daniel suggested huskily as Jack pulled away.

"I forfeit," Jack said, standing up, his hand reaching for Daniel's.

"We haven't even started."

"What's your point?"

Daniel smiled and reached over, their fingers intertwining. Both men shivered as they experienced a tingling that set their blood on fire.

"I forfeit the next one," Daniel said thickly.

Jack wrapped his arms around Daniel, pulled him in close, and felt the hard erection against his own.

"Jesus, Danny," he moaned.

"Stay the night?" Daniel asked.

"I'll stay forever," Jack murmured, nuzzling the warm neck and inhaling the intoxicating scent of his soon-to-be lover.

Daniel pulled back and searched the well-loved brown eyes, captivated by the passion shining back at him.

"I mean it, Danny. If you'll have me," Jack whispered.

Daniel grasped Jack's hand and felt the strong, calloused fingers close possessively over his own. He smiled and tightened his grasp. Together, they turned and walked to Daniel's bedroom, and the start of their new life.

The end