XMFC/Take me out

[diecastking]

After his fight with Charles, Erik is careful to keep James at arms length. While he enjoys the man's company, Charles seems to have some sort of problem with it. For the sake of his lover's comfort, Erik is willing to sacrifice one friendship.

But one night after dinner, James approaches him with a map, excitedly pointing out a Civil War fort in an area of particular geological significance. He proposes a joint field trip. Erik is caught up in James' enthusiasm and readily agrees.

James tells him about a second-hand minibus he's seen in town and Erik agrees they should look at it. Without a second thought, Erik fetches the motorbike and James climbs on the back, the two of them chattering about their field trip.

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[guideshapelead]

For his part, Charles has been trying his best not to let his jealousy become irrational. James is just a friend, to the both of them, and if Erik wants to spend time with him then that's no different from him wanting to spend time with Alex, or Sean.

Only Charles can't quite make himself believe that. It's something in the way James is, the way he behaves around Erik. Charles doesn't need to be a telepath to see the attraction there, though Erik seems oblivious.

The final straw is when Charles watches them ride off together on Erik's bike. That bike had been a gift from him, and he'd never intended Erik to share it so readily. It hurts him in a way he can't describe.