Chapter Text
The satellite images of the coastline were still sitting in the same place Haysey left them earlier, his panic at seeing Apple coming out of the pool making him lose his head a little bit and just abandoning them in the first place he thought of. He’s torn between wanting to know more and wanting to hide from everyone for the foreseeable future for being so shameful and staring at Apple when he shouldn’t. He’s 90% sure Freddy suspects his crush on both of their commanding officers but he dares not ask to confirm.
With a shake of his head, he turns his mind back to the mission and scoops the pictures off the side and puts them back in the folder sitting on the coffee table, finding that there’s now more pictures there than before. He flicks through them and wafts them in Gus’s general direction as Gus walks into the room, joining everyone else around the little table.
“Sir?”
“Yes, Haysey?”
“What are these new photos?”
Gus’s face clears and he reaches out to take the folder, brushing his fingers against the back of Haysey’s hand. Haysey’s sure they’ve all seen him shiver at the touch and his cheeks flush with something like embarrassment as he perches on the only seat left next to Apple. Apple smiles and not so subtly rests his arm on the back of the sofa, fingers gently brushing across Haysey’s shoulder blade - unseen to all but Gus as he situates himself on the arm of the seat next to the Irishman, sandwiching him between them.
Taking pity on the lad - while also slipping into his leader role, Gus begins speaking, capturing the attention of the room.
"This is new information, lads. Our new tasks include infiltrating and bugging the super yacht in the pictures. Owned by a Heinrich Luhr. Not sure yet if it's related to the sub you spotted a few days ago Haysey, but we’ll roll with it. Either way, HQ says he’s the target we’ve been sent to deal with."
Apple snorts softly, "of course it’s owned by him .” At Haysey and Freddy’s confused look, he continues, “I know him. Nasty piece of work."
Gus pauses and then nods, "then we'll need to be extra careful."
"How nasty are we talking?" Haysey asks quietly, looking between Apple and Gus slowly.
"Drugs running. Racketeering. Murder. Human trafficking. Torture. You name it. He's done it."
Haysey goes quiet as he realises they’re going to be up against a very nasty enemy and sends a brief silent prayer up, praying for Malcolm to keep watching and keep him safe. Apple clears his throat as the silence stretches on and taps the papers Gus passes across to him, flicking through them easily enough, even analysing the older ones that Haysey took.
“He’s said to have links to some very high profile fascist ideology groups in Europe. So any extra information we can recover would be good. So no blowing their filing cabinets to kingdom come, Freddy.”
Freddy mock pouts but then nods seriously, “if you say so boss.”
“Where’s the yacht based, Gus?”
“Intel says it should be docking in Port Vauban. I think it could be that big fancy thing that Lassen spotted on the horizon last night. We can check the surveillance pics later to make sure. While also taking some more today for good measure.”
“We could do with a boat of our own to keep a low profile. They shouldn’t look twice at other people on the water,” Haysey suggests quietly.
“A good suggestion, lad. We can keep rotating our watch from the harbour walls as well. Make sure we keep them on their toes. I’ll get in touch with Heron to arrange a boat for us.”
Apple suddenly has a thought. “On that note. Who can sail? I haven’t been on a boat in years. Gus?”
“Not since I was last on holiday in Europe. So we’re talking like 5 or 6 years? Not that I could claim to be anything resembling a fisherman, you understand.”
Freddy shakes his head, “don’t look at me. I’m mostly awful on a boat. Anders knows that.”
Lassen gives Freddy a small but fond smile. “Yes I do. You spent the first time clinging to the rail and asking when we’d get back to dry land. But I’m passable on a small boat if I need to be.”
Freddy groans and swats at Lassen, “you promised you wouldn’t tell anyone you arse!”
Lassen simply laughs in reply and looks at Haysey, “what about you, my friend?”
Haysey tries not to let the pride he feels show but judging from Freddy’s playful roll of his eyes, he doesn’t quite manage it.
“I can sail. Very well in fact. We grew up in a fishing village. Spent our early years on the harbour until we got old enough to stand on the oldest, ricketiest fishing boat in the fleet without falling over. Malcolm was originally gonna be a fisherman until he saw an advert for the army on the tv. It went from there.” Haysey is aware he’s rambling but he can’t seem to stop himself, words tripping off his tongue.
Gus pats his knee gently and it calms him down a little bit, embarrassment fading quickly as Apple turns the conversation back to the mission.
“That’s good to know. We can trust you to keep any one of us afloat when we join you on recon. Keep the rest of us on rotation at the harbour?”
Gus nods, “sounds like a plan. I’ll ring Heron up now and get the ball rolling.”
Gus stands up and pulls out his phone, leaving everyone else sitting in the spacious living room looking at each other. Freddy laughs suddenly and nudges Lassen’s knee with his foot.
“Hey I always wanted to see what the inside of a superyacht looked like. Guess I’m gonna find out.”
Apple snorts and puts the photographs away, dropping the folder onto the low table between them, curling a proprietary arm around Haysey’s shoulder for balance, keeping it there as he relaxes back into the sofa.
“Oh you’ll find out alright Freddy, lad. We’ll be armed to the teeth while we do it too. We can’t take any risks with this guy. Take down anyone we come across.” Apple turns to pin Lassen with a look - something half amused, half serious, “Heartsnatcher, we’ll need all your skills.”
Lassen’s grin turns almost feral at the edges and he nods happily, “I’ll do my very best, Apple.”
Gus returns soon enough, “right lads. Heron can fit us up with a boat he’s got saved in the harbour. He’ll be meeting us down there within the hour. We’ll need your keen eyes again, Haysey, if we’re to make sure it’s in top shape for our recon.”
Haysey nods and stands, reluctantly letting Apple’s arm slip off his shoulders, “ready to go whenever you all are, sir.”
Apple stands too, “yes, let’s get going now. It’ll give us chance to scope out the area again. Don’t forget your cameras or phones, we’ll need more photos, in whatever level of pixels we can get them in.”
~~
The sun glinting off the boats moored nearby was almost blinding, all of them shielding their eyes with their hands despite the sunglasses they’re all wearing. Apple grumbles softly and moves first, stepping his way down the little pier in between boats as he makes his way towards a dark skinned man in a light blue suit waiting at the end.
“Heron!” he calls out, holding out a hand before he’s even reached him.
The man smiles and takes Apple’s hand, shaking it firmly and fondly as he deftly sidesteps Gus’s own greeting. Gus groans playfully as Heron dodges the hug he tries to give him instead, holding out the same hand and raising one eyebrow. Gus huffs but takes his hand.
“Heron. Good to see you my friend.”
“Likewise.” Heron motions to the three others behind Gus and Apple, “the rest of your team?”
“Yes. This is Freddy, Lassen and Haysey.” Gus motions to each of them in turn and each of them obediently smile and wave - like small children meeting a distant relation at a family party. Haysey laughs at the thought and Freddy nudges him with his elbow, an amused smile tugging at the corner of his mouth, like he’s thinking exactly the same thing. Heron tips his hat politely in reply to their greetings and turns to show off the boat at his back.
“She’s called the Maid Honour.”
Heron waves a dark hand at a boat bobbing low in the water and Haysey can feel his fingertips tingling with the need to climb aboard and lose himself in the rigging and the sails. Gus waits by his side as the others all pile aboard, arching an eyebrow in curiousity at Haysey’s twitchy reaction.
“All good lad?”
Haysey takes a few quick steps forward to place his hand on the hull of the boat, the gentle swell of the waves rocking her under his palm and he turns to give Gus a bright grin and a nod, strangely confident that she’ll serve them perfectly. Lassen and Freddy are already exploring, their voices echoing from below decks as they search around the boat for what’s already available, Lassen making a quick mental inventory. Apple waits for both Gus and Haysey at the top of the ladder, leaning on the railing with one arm while he chats quietly to Heron behind him.
He returns Haysey’s grin with one of his own and gallantly holds out a hand for Haysey to hold onto as he steps onto the deck. Haysey takes it, feeling a small thrill at Apple’s gentle touch. Gus stands so he’s right behind him, his subtle aftershave invading Haysey’s senses and distracting him from his inspection of the rigging above them. Freddy pokes his head up from the hatch that leads down below.
“You guys have got to come and see this!”
Haysey lets his fingers slip from Apple’s hand and follows after Freddy, noting the little bunks folded up against the wall as Freddy guides him into a smaller room, a huge wall-sized mural facing them the moment they walk in. The mural is made up of a few soldiers, two of them with weapons raised while the others stand in the back, shields at the ready to defend, all of them wearing what looks like old style Roman or Greek armour.
“Huh. This is pretty cool!” Haysey mutters, stepping closer to inspect the little painted details on the shield of the soldier to the right. Freddy’s chattering away to Lassen as he joins them, Haysey noticing that Lassen has tangled their hands together while they take their fill of the mural. Apple makes a soft noise as he lingers in the doorway, eyes fixed to the wall.
“This is a fun addition. Do you know who added this?” he asks Heron.
Heron shakes his head, “no I don’t. It was like this when I took the boat on a decade or so ago. I haven’t even touched it up and it’s still just as vibrant! Also, I don’t know what it depicts if I’m honest with you.”
Before Apple can even open his mouth to offer his own explanation, Lassen speaks, voice soft in the easy quiet of the room.
“It depicts soldiers from The Sacred Band of Thebes.”
Freddy looks up at Lassen with something like glee in his eyes.
“I didn’t know you knew so much history. Tell me more?”
Lassen nods and begins explaining, pausing at the end to allow Apple to add his own little comment if he wants to.
“They were a select troop of soldiers from about the 4th century BC. Roughly 150 pairs of male lovers to form an army for Thebes with the aim to try and end Spartan dominance.”
“They were said to be very efficient with their soldiering,” Apple adds quietly, offering a small smile when Haysey turns to look at him. “Said to be almost invincible until they all fell as one in the middle of the 4th century. And while I don’t fancy the idea of us all getting shot during this mission, it’s a good omen I think.”
“How is it a good omen?” Haysey asks, piercing Apple with his curious gaze and almost pinning him in place as Gus slips up to stand behind him, looping an arm around his shoulders.
“Well, a mural of a band of soldiers who just happened to be gay and good at their job? Sounds like good luck to me.”
Gus snorts and plants a quick kiss to Apple’s cheek, winking at Haysey while he’s still looking at them.
“Whatever you say Apple. You want to carry on, Haysey?”
Haysey nods and slips past Apple and Gus, continuing to look around below deck, curiously poking at all the items sitting around the little sink before he turns on his heel and finds Gus’s eyes already watching him and nodding once, decisively.
“This is perfect, sir. She’ll do perfectly for the mission.”
Gus smiles happily and nods towards Heron.
“You heard the lad. We’ll take her.”
Heron nods and buries the smile he wants to let out, already sure that they’d have taken the Maid Honour even without the young lad’s careful inspection. He gestures Gus in front of him as they climb back up to the deck, chatting quietly between themselves. Apple follows on after a quiet word with Freddy and Lassen and joins the both of them at the railing, watching the sun glint off the sea while Haysey mutters softly to himself behind them.
“How are things with you, Heron?” Gus asks, leaning on the railing with his elbows.
Heron gives a small smile. “I’m good, thank you for asking.”
“And how’s Marge?”
Heron huffs a laugh, “she’s well. I’ll tell her you asked after her, shall I?”
Apple snorts and deftly dodges the elbow Gus aims at his side in retaliation, “tell her hello from me too. It’s been far too long since I’ve seen her myself when this one keeps stealing me away for missions.” Gus gives Apple a fond smile at the playful dig and Heron averts his eyes slightly to give them some semblance of privacy.
Apple schools his features back to normal and waves Freddy and Lassen closer as they come back up onto the top deck and join Haysey at the helm, their voices quiet.
“Lads! Come over here for a minute.”
The three of them stroll over and join Apple, Gus and Heron at the railing. Heron pulls a folder out from the little case he’s miraculously made appear at his feet and offers it below the level of the railing, ever conscious of being watched from the harbour or beyond.
“We haven’t identified the class of sub yet but judging from the shape in the water the thinking is that it’s either a Delta Class or Oscar Class. I’d hazard that it's an Oscar from the shape but don’t take my word for it. Intel suggests it’s owned - or at least used - by a gent with the name of Heinrich Luhr.”
“Him again?” Apple huffs softly, rolling his eyes in Gus’s direction.
Gus nods, “seems so. What else have you got for us Heron?”
“More weapons for a start. Stashed in the same storage units as before if you still remember the code?”
Gus and Apple both grin at that, Freddy perking up at the idea of more firepower.
“What else?”
“Better lenses for your cameras. More high tech bugs as well. Head of intel wants as much as you can possibly get your hands on before you blow this bastard to kingdom come.”
“So the plan is definitely to kill him then? No more infiltration only?” Gus muses, idly rubbing at one end of his moustache as he thinks.
Haysey can’t take his eyes off the motion even as he listens to Heron and Apple faux squabble between themselves, both of them arguing the merits of wiping Luhr off the face of the earth as he debates whether listening to the urge to touch Gus is a good one or not. Surprisingly, Lassen is the one to break the argument up and the sound of his voice brings Haysey back to himself.
“You have any more information about what it is we’re meant to be getting from him? Or even how many enemies we’ll be up against?”
Heron pauses and opens the folder, pulling out a page and handing it to Lassen.
“Here’s the intel on the people he keeps around him at all times. Various ex and current soldiers much like yourselves.” Heron trails off and turns back to Apple and Gus. “HQ needs the info he’s holding. I don’t know what it is exactly but they want it badly. You can’t fuck this up, Gus.”
Gus takes this new information like he takes everything - with a small nod and a furrow of his brows. Apple rests his weight against Gus’s shoulder for a moment, taking the time to remind Gus that he’s here to share the weight of the leadership role he’s put himself in. Gus’s lips quirk minutely and he nudges Apple in the ribs gently enough before he turns everyone’s attention back to their little intel session.
“And we won’t. What else have you got for us Heron?”
Heron flips the folder open completely this time, putting his back to the rail so that he’s blocking anyone’s view of what he’s holding. He shows them multiple satellite images of the yacht - the Duchessa - with a helpfully printed page of dimensions for Freddy and Lassen to peer at. Haysey takes the top photo and turns it this way and that as he analyses it, mind already working out its length and breadth, ready to tell the group on the off chance someone asks.
“We’ll have to be careful,” he mutters, fingertips gently tracing the outline of the sparse lifeboats attached to the side of the yacht, mind already considering all the things that could go wrong.
“Stick with us and you’ll be just fine,” Apple whispers, dropping Haysey a wink that sends him both hot and cold at the same time, chewing his lip to try and hide his sudden blush. He’s not so sure Apple’s just on about the mission anymore but he bites his tongue to hold back from asking. Gus sends him a wink too and takes the photo back, fingers brushing Haysey’s as he does. He holds the photo up to Heron.
“You got any schematics available for the Duchessa?”
Heron nods and grabs another folder from the case at his feet, “yes, March-Phillipps. I do. All in here.” Not one of them misses how sarcastic Heron’s voice has gone and Apple has to chew his bottom lip to avoid laughing.
Freddy takes the folder and starts nosing through it, humming here and there as he spots something interesting. Haysey rests back against the railing, tipping his face up to the sun as he relaxes, studiously not twitching as Apple tangles their fingers together gently. Apple gives him a small smile that Haysey catches from the corner of his eye and he scrunches his nose to keep from giggling like a schoolgirl with her first crush.
Apple tilts his hips carefully so he’s stretched out next to Haysey, the length of his legs enticing Haysey’s eyes the longer he tries to stop looking at them. Apple lets his shirt slip open too, baring the top of his chest and one nipple to the air and he knows Haysey is watching him when the lad goes taut and silent next to him, looking nowhere but right in front of him.
Gus spots what Apple’s doing and very gallantly keeps Heron’s attention on himself, Freddy and Lassen to minimise the embarrassment their lad could possibly feel. Apple is grateful Gus takes the proverbial fall for this one, far too invested in lounging next to Haysey to be paying full attention to what the other three are saying. Haysey eventually loosens up and gently tilts into Apple’s side, doing more to warm Apple than the mid morning sun currently is.
Heron falls quiet and reaches out to shake Gus’s hand, making his way around the group and coming to Haysey and Apple last.
“A pleasure as always, Apple, my friend.”
Apple grins and grips Heron’s hand tightly, meaning it when he says, “same to you, Heron. We’ll see you around?”
“Perhaps. We shall see.”
Heron waves his goodbyes and steps off the boat easily enough, leaving the 5 of them on board to do what they want. Gus shakes them all out of their self imposed silence by clapping his hands, “right you lot. Shall we see if anything else needs repairs before we make a plan and get underway this afternoon?”
Apple gives one final squeeze to Haysey’s hand before he pulls away, going to inspect the anchor rope in lieu of staying in his spot and flirting with Haysey all day.
~~
The drive back is filled with easy silence, Haysey sitting in the passenger seat of the jeep with the window down, the warm breeze ruffling the loosely slicked back hair of his fringe. Gus catches Apple’s eyes in the rear view mirror and smiles, taking his silence as a chance to do some gentle flirting of his own.
He slides his hand across to the gear stick, carefully allowing the very tips of his fingers to brush against Haysey’s knee. When he gets no reaction, he dares a little more and leaves his fingers where they are, brushing right against the lads kneecap. Haysey’s leg twitches but he doesn’t pull away from Gus’s gentle touch and it galvanises Gus even more. He slows the speed of the car just to be on the safe side and Apple huffs a quiet laugh from the back when he works it out.
Haysey tenses his knee under Gus’s touch and pushes against his hand, encouraging the touch silently. Gus rubs his thumb against the warm skin and smiles as he feels Haysey shiver gently from the careful caress. Apple’s eyes burn through the mirror and Gus feels their caress, burning up from the inside at the heat he sees reflected back at him. Haysey keeps his face turned towards the window and Gus worries that he might be pushing it too far, pulling his fingers back so they’re resting on the stick again.
Haysey whines quietly and flicks his eyes towards Gus, tentatively reaching out to press his own fingertips to the back of Gus’s hand. Gus slows as he pulls up to a set of lights and turns to look at Haysey, giving him as much of his attention as he can while he keeps one eye on the lights for when they turn green. Haysey touches the back of his hand again and shifts his legs, tilting his knee towards their hands.
Gus lifts his hand and rests it back on his knee, curling his fingers so they’re gently rubbing against the hard bone of his kneecap. Haysey sighs happily and goes back to looking out of the window, hiding his smile behind his fist as he rests his chin on it. Apple winks at Gus through the mirror and pointedly coughs when the light switches to green and Gus doesn’t make a move.
Haysey giggles softly as Gus swears loudly and pulls away, swiftly driving them back up to speed and back towards the villa. Apple slips out of the backseat and comes to stand at Haysey’s door, politely holding it open. Haysey steps out of the car and grins across at Apple, brushing up against him as he passes by him and makes his way to the front door.
Apple makes a split second decision that he hopes none of them will regret.
“Would you like to join us in the pool?” Apple asks, leaning against the side of the door, still waiting for Gus to climb out of the driver's seat. He notices Gus subtly adjusting himself in his jeans and smothers his smile with a hand over his mouth. Haysey shrugs and then nods, leaning back against the front door.
“Yeah, why not?”
Gus grins and finally climbs out of the car, joining Haysey at the front door and turning to Apple with a little smirk.
“Coming, Apple?”
Apple laughs loud and clear at the innuendo and strides after them both, gently smacking Gus on the arse as they walk through the house and enter their bedroom, the echo of Haysey’s quiet whistling bringing a smile to both their faces. Gus picks his usual swimming trunks and it makes Apple pause as he reaches for his own. Gus can’t fail to notice his hesitation and he keeps silent as he turns to face Apple, simply arching a curious eyebrow.
Apple chews his lip and then crouches down to root around in the bag at the bottom of the wardrobe. Gus stands there and watches, utterly confused at what he’s looking for. Apple re-emerges triumphantly, a little scrap of fabric clutched in his hand. Gus laughs when he realises what it is and leans in to nuzzle his nose with Apple’s.
“You’ll kill more than Haysey if you wear those.”
Apple grins and waves them at Gus, “that’s the point.”
With a wink, he slips past Gus to their bed, stripping off his clothes with enough speed to rip a seam or two. Gus strips down as well, slipping his trunks on and standing off to the side to eye the warm, tanned skin of Apple’s legs and waist. Apple wriggles his hips playfully, Gus licking his lips at the movement and Apple laughs lowly, eyes bright as he turns his piercing gaze onto his boyfriend.
A quiet knock at the door breaks their moment and Gus slips over to open it, grabbing his towel along the way. Haysey waits patiently on the other side, his own towel slung over his shoulder and dark trunks low on his hips.
“You ready?”
“Aye. Apple?”
“Yeah, be with you in a moment!”
Gus smiles and motions for Haysey to lead the way, knowing Apple is saving his reveal as a big surprise. He’s a little worried Apple might be pushing it too soon but he’s willing to go on a little faith after Haysey’s tentative urging for Gus to keep touching his knee in the car. Haysey settles down in the first lounger he comes to, sighing happily with the towel stretched out underneath him and his arms crossed behind his head.
Gus allows his eyes to linger for a moment on the slim muscles Haysey is showing off, the leanness of his chest a contrast to his own and Apple’s muscled stature. Gus eventually moves on, setting his towel down on the next lounger as he sits on the edge of the pool, dipping his feet in the cool, refreshing water. The sound of the door opening catches their attention and as one, they both turn to see Apple framed in the doorway, hip cocked seductively.
Haysey makes an odd little choking noise as he sits up slightly, jaw dropping open the longer he stares at what Apple is wearing. Or not wearing as the case may be. The little black speedos barely cover the essential - Gus privately thinks it’s not worth the scrap of fabric he’s wearing but he keeps that little thought to himself. As lovely as it would be to see Apple ditch the speedos and go full commando - Gus laughs to himself at the fully intended pun - and keeps on watching Haysey’s reaction.
The lad still has his mouth wide open, eyes darting up and down Apple’s body as he tries to decide where is safest to put his eyes. He must eventually decide that looking right at Apple’s face is the best course of action as he shifts about on the lounger, bringing one leg up to try and hide his quite obvious reaction to Apple’s lack of clothing. Apple, meanwhile, is acting like nothing is different in his attire and he casually chucks his towel onto the same lounger as Gus’s is on.
He cuts a graceful arc as he dives into the water, the surface of the pool barely rippling as he goes under. Gus cuts his eyes to Apple’s shadow under the water in an attempt to give Haysey some semblance of privacy despite the fact that he just wants to watch the lad all the time. Apple swims a lap and resurfaces at his feet, grinning up at him and wiping water from his face with a quick flick of his wrist. Haysey makes another curious choking noise and Gus and Apple share a conspiratorial smirk before they both turn to face Haysey.
He’s giving them both a stunned look, eyes wide as he chews on his bottom lip gently. Apple pushes a little closer to the edge of the pool and rests his arms on the ledge, resting his chin on top once he’s settled. Haysey keeps staring at him, eyes flicking between Apple’s face and his arms, Apple flexing to keep the lad’s eyes on him. Gus leans back on his elbows, flexing his own arms in the process and Haysey chews his lip again, eyes slipping from wide open to heavy and sultry.
Gus wonders who’s seducing who at the moment, Haysey shifting on the lounger until his feet are dangling off the side of the seat, thighs spread wide to accommodate the stretch. Apple licks his lips at the sight of his tented swimming trunks and pushes up from the pool, sensually dragging himself up and out until he’s kneeling on the cool concrete at Gus’s side. Haysey hums and drags his eyes from Apple to Gus and back again, allowing them to linger at Apple’s hips, the speedo barely clinging on to his body after Apple’s little show.
Gus shifts until he’s leaning on one elbow, the other one trailing gently up Apple’s tensed thigh, fingers squeezing gently. Apple grins down at him and drags a hand up his own body, still giving Haysey a show. Gus spots Haysey squirming as Apple dips down to kiss him, both of them turning so that Haysey can see the way their tongues tangle and drag across each other’s lips. Gus isn’t sure who moans but he chases after Apple’s lips with a new fervour, moaning softly into his mouth when Apple submits easily enough.
Gus pulls away to mouth at Apple’s neck instead, still angling his head to watch Haysey from the corner of his eye. He’s still watching, eyes intense as he follows the path Gus’s mouth is tracing down Apple’s neck and chest. He’s still got his thighs spread wide, swimming shorts now tented obscenely and Gus licks his lips as he drinks his fill. Haysey grins and chews his thumb almost shyly, teasingly sucking on the end of it as he watches Apple’s eyes go dark.
Apple grins and flexes his hips up, enticing Haysey’s eyes to drift back down his body as Gus slides the hand around his thigh higher, curling around his hip to thumb at the band of his speedos. They’re tented too and Gus wonders just how Apple’s speedos are still clinging on as Haysey shifts his own hips and both Gus and Apple’s eyes drag down his body to focus on the way he’s humping the air slightly in desperation. Apple’s teeth ache with the way he’s got his jaw clenched to stop himself moving closer, unsure if Haysey will run or panic if Apple makes a move.
Gus must be thinking the same thing as he strokes a relaxing thumb across his hip, dipping it below the band of his speedos to press into the divot between his thigh and his abs. Apple shivers at the touch and it seems to jolt him out of whatever haze he’s slipped into as he turns his intense eyes onto Gus. Gus shivers and arches up for another kiss, opening his mouth on a moan as Apple’s hand slides down his chest to grope at him, fingers wet and warm against his stomach.
Haysey shifts on his seat as if he’s going to move, feet planted for balance right as Gus moves too, shifting about so he’s kneeling opposite Apple instead. Right as he slides his other arm around Apple’s waist the sound of the door slamming shut jolts them all out of their little moment. Haysey sits bolt upright and flushes bright red, eyes screwing shut like he’s about to start crying. Gus aches to go over and reassure the lad that it’s alright but he’s already awkwardly scrambling out of his seat, towel clutched protectively at his hips.
He gives them both an awkward but endearing look over his shoulder as he goes, lingering in the doorway like he’s expecting them to stop him. The sound of Freddy’s voice distracts them all as Apple stands with a hand outstretched, finally breaking out of his own little bubble to try and stop the lad from leaving. It’s too late however as Haysey disappears inside, towel now wrapped around him to try and hide his boner.
Apple slumps back into Gus and sighs sadly, tucking his face against Gus’s neck. Gus plays with his hair and holds him, staying quiet for once, both of them silent as they think.
“He wanted it, didn't he?” Apple mumbles softly, “he was certainly interested in watching, right?”
Gus nods, mind tumbling with ideas and theories as he nuzzles at Apple’s hair consolingly.
“I think so. He kept watching so he must have wanted to.”
Apple sighs and scrubs at his face, arousal fading the longer they sit there in the warm summer sun.
“Shall we go out for the evening, Apple?” Gus suggests.
Apple flicks a glance towards the door, hoping he’ll see Haysey framed in the doorway but he sees nothing but glass and empty air and he sighs quietly, nodding once.
“Yeah I think that’s a good idea, give ourselves some space to breathe and reassess.”
Gus dips in for a kiss, smiling as Apple hums softly.
“Always the one with the smart ideas, hey?”
“Someone has to be smart. I worry we might be going too far if we keep pushing. If he wanted it, he’d say surely?”
Gus soothes Apple’s worry with another gentle kiss and nose nuzzle, voice soft and soothing as he curls his arms around Apple for a tight hug.
“Hey, it’s alright. We’re all adults, yeah? If he’s uncomfortable I’m sure he’d say something. Malcolm did a time or two if I remember right. I’m positive Haysey is exactly the same.”
Apple gives a quiet sigh but nods.
“Yes. Yes, of course. Come on then. Let’s go for that fucking drink.”
~~
Gus keeps his fingers locked with Apple’s as they walk back into the villa, trying their best to stay quiet so as not to disturb Haysey. He knows they don’t have to be quiet for Freddy or Lassen as they’re also out exploring the town. Gus wonders if he can hear movement from his bedroom as they walk to their room, Apple playfully swinging their hands between them. Gus huffs a laugh and matches Apple’s movement, their hands almost hitting the door from how fast they’re moving.
As Apple grins at him, all teeth in the dimness of the hallway, Gus can’t help but lean in for a kiss. Apple tugs him closer, leaning back against the wall behind him as he opens his mouth under Gus’s, tongues tangling eagerly. Gus thinks Apple moans into the kiss and he wonders if Apple must be more frustrated than he thought when he hears the moan again.
Apple pulls back and blinks at him, confusion wrinkling his brow. Gus automatically lifts a thumb to soothe the line away and tilts his head in confusion. Why is Apple giving him that look when he was the one who moaned? Apple lifts a hand to his mouth and shushes Gus quietly, pushing away from the wall so they’re both standing in the middle of the corridor like complete weirdos.
A choked off whimper is heard next and Gus finally works out that he must be hearing Haysey. He knows it can’t be Freddy as he could never be that quiet if you paid him. Apple lurches into Gus and bites his lip, the hunger in his eyes growing the longer they stand there and listen. Haysey gasps loudly and Gus can hear the bed creak underneath him, mind unhelpfully conjuring images of the young Irishman splayed out and writhing with pleasure. Apple growls almost silently and buries his face in Gus’s neck, tension radiating off him as he uses Gus to ground himself.
“A-Apple! Oh God, Appleeee!”
Gus goes cold all over as Haysey clearly moans out Apple’s name, the man in question going still in his arms as he registers the words. The sound of skin slapping on skin echoes down the hallway and neither of them need any imagination to know what Haysey is currently doing. Gus swallows around the shards of jealousy crawling up his throat and tugs at Apple’s arm, trying to guide him back into their room.
Apple sways on his feet and almost pushes back against Gus before he gives in and spins on his heels, turning to face their room as Haysey moans again. Gus lets go of Apple’s arm like it’s burnt him and he angrily scrubs at his face, turning away so Apple can’t see the way it’s affecting him. Apple curls around his back, nuzzling his nose against the hinge of Gus’s jaw.
“Gus?” he whispers.
“Leave it Apple,” Gus replies in his own harsh whisper, guilt and jealousy tangling up inside him to leave him feeling sick to his stomach. Apple’s touch turns gently and cajoling, the irony of the easy switch in their roles not lost on Gus as he’s nudged into the doorway of their room. He grasps at the door handle to ground himself, trying and failing to resist the urge to slam the door and ruin Haysey’s night like Gus is single handedly ruining their own. Apple sits on the edge of their bed, frowning across at him as he waits for Gus to decide what to do.
Haysey whines again from across the hallway and Gus screws his eyes shut, gently thudding his forehead against the door as he wallows in self pity. He had hoped the lad would be amenable to the idea of both him and Apple in his bed but if he has to give up that idea, so be it. Apple shifts from the bed and slowly walks towards him, hand outstretched placatingly.
“Come on. Let’s allow Haysey his pleasure and we’ll speak to him in the morning? I’m not invading the lads' privacy if I don’t have to.”
As if speaking the lad’s name is the trigger, they both hear him moan again, voice warbling as he clearly enjoys himself. Gus’s hand twitches and Apple dives for the door, praying he can catch it in time before it slams shut and Gus causes a scene he’ll regret come morning. He careens into Gus and grabs the other side, putting his hand over the lock so Gus won’t be tempted to slam it.
Apple finds out he needn’t have bothered running for the door as he hears another name leave Haysey’s mouth, voice just as full of pleading as it was when he whined Apple’s name.
“Gus! Fuuuuuck! Please!”
Gus freezes and looks across at Apple, eyes wide in the low light of the lamp that Apple clicked on while he was sat down.
“Did he…..My name too?”
Apple licks his lips and nods, eyes assessing the way Gus has gone quiet and still next to him. Haysey moans Gus’s name again but softer this time and Apple deftly slips between the door and Gus to stop him diving across the hall, laughing to himself at Gus’s change in attitude.
“Not now Gus! We’ll spook him and he’ll run!” Apple whispers into his ear, taking the opportunity to sneakily suck on Gus’s earlobe, taking the attention for himself. Gus swallows the whimper crawling up his throat and begins dragging Apple into the room, forgetting to shut the door in his haste to have Apple underneath him. His grin hidden, Apple knocks the door closed with his heel, making sure it’s mostly shut before he allows Gus to push him down onto the bed and tug at his clothes.
~~
Freddy whistles under his breath as he fills a bowl with his favourite cereal, pulling a funny face as he contemplates whether to add some Greek yoghurt or not. Haysey walks in as he nods to himself and gives him a funny look.
“What you doing?” Haysey asks, coming over to lean up against the counter as he grabs an empty bowl for himself.
“Adding yoghurt to my cereal,” Freddy replies.
Haysey snorts and shakes his head fondly, “course you are.”
Freddy laughs and pokes Haysey in the arm playfully, “try it mate! Honestly, really nice! You won’t regret it!”
Haysey gives in when Freddy keeps pouting at him and takes the spoon from his hands, dolloping a fair amount into his own cereal.
“Happy now?”
Freddy grins and nods, winking at him as they settle side by side facing the window, both basking in the sunlight streaming through the windows and the half open door. Freddy’s halfway through his cereal when he speaks again, grin firmly fixed on his face.
“Though not quite as happy as you seem to be. Quite a spring in your step if you ask me.”
Haysey almost chokes on the spoonful of yoghurt he’s got in his mouth as Freddy’s words register with his half asleep mind.
“Dunno what you mean, Freddy, mate.”
“Oh I think you do. Your new toy do a good job then or did you finally get fucked when Gus and Apple came back home early?”
Haysey actually does choke this time and has to put his bowl down to cover his mouth, Freddy unhelpfully gently patting his back the whole time.
“Fucking ‘ell Freddy! Warn a fella would ya?”
Freddy shrugs almost nonchalantly but Haysey sees the way he hesitates before speaking, making sure he’s not eating when he finally says what he wants to.
“Sorry man. But you weren’t subtle coming back with that toy by the way. Everyone in this villa knows what that little grey bag means. To be honest I was going to ask if you’d finally opened your mouth and told Gus and Apple you were crushing on them but apparently not, if your reaction is anything to go by.”
“Shut up Freddy!” Haysey peers around him to the door, making sure that no one is listening in to their conversation.
“Yeah you’ve not told them then?”
Haysey glares at him and then deflates, leaning into his side as he picks his cereal up again, speaking around a mouthful of yoghurt and muesli.
“No…..what if they think I’m weird for crushing on them both?”
Freddy blinks at him like he’s stupid. “You mad? They wouldn’t think that. In fact I think they’d be rather pleased with it.”
Haysey snorts and shakes his head, “fuck off Freddy. You’re having a laugh.”
“I’m not! Promise! Ask Lassen if you don’t believe me!”
Haysey snorts again and finishes his breakfast, cleaning the bowl and spoon quickly before leaving them on the side to dry.
“Alright then. I will!”
Freddy chews the inside of his cheek to hide his laugh at Haysey’s petulance and nods back towards the bedrooms, “you might be waiting a while though. I tired Lassen out quite a lot last night….if you know what I mean?” He waggles his eyebrows at Haysey and laughs at the fake gag the lad gives in return.
“Blergh! Don’t need to know, man!”
Freddy cackles loudly and finishes his own cereal, still chuckling around his spoon as he eats the last bite, grinning towards Apple as he walks into the kitchen.
“Morning lads. You both alright?”
Freddy nods and catches Haysey doing the same from the corner of his eye, the lads' cheeks turning redder the longer Apple pays him attention.
“Are you alright, Apple?” Freddy questions.
Apple smiles and nods, dropping Freddy a wink when Haysey isn’t looking.
“Yes, yes I slept quite well thank you.”
He ends his sentence by stretching his arms above his head, revealing a tantalising strip of skin that Haysey’s eyes track, cheeks turning even redder when he catches Apple watching him in return. He drops Haysey a wink and grins as Haysey seems to whimper under his breath, giving the lad some respite as he turns to fix himself some breakfast.
“Er….I’m gonna go and get ready now. See you in a bit.”
Haysey makes a quick escape, glancing over his shoulder at Apple one final time before he hurries away to his room. Freddy snorts and gives Apple his best disappointed look - which doesn’t mean much when he’s also grinning like a loon.
“He’s so down bad for you,” Freddy mutters, not bothering to hide the roll of his eyes as Apple gives him an innocent look. “How long are you gonna keep this whole seducing thing before you actually properly tell him you’re interested too?”
Apple shrugs, “until we’re sure he wants us in return.”
Freddy snorts and turns to the sink to wash up.
“He does. Anyone with eyes can see it.”
Apple shakes his head slowly, “as much as I trust you Freddy, I want to hear him say it just to be sure.”
“Have it your way,” Freddy shrugs again and turns to leave, “I’d best go get dressed too. I’m off with Haysey on the yacht today right?”
“Yeah. Make sure you wake Lassen before you go, please. We’ll need him on the other end of the harbour if he can find somewhere to hide.”
Freddy waves his goodbyes, humming a tune as he lopes off towards his shared room with Lassen.
~~
Apple is still standing in the kitchen when Gus walks in a little while later, hair still in slight disarray from last night's fun. He’s left his shirt half open and Apple knows it’s no accident as he eyes the muscles of Gus’s chest with a little smirk.
“All for me, Gussy?”
Gus grins brightly and nods, playing along with Apple’s game.
“Always, love.”
Apple chuckles and holds out the drawer next to him as Gus roots through it for a knife to butter his toast.
“Freddy mentioned something interesting just,” Apple begins, knowing Gus is listening to him by the tilt of his head. “He said that Haysey is interested.”
“Oh?”
“Yeah. In both of us.”
Gus pauses with the knife just above the toast, turning to look at Apple curiously.
“Was he just fucking with you?”
“I don’t think so. He sounded like he meant it.”
Gus nods slowly and goes back to buttering his toast, placing the knife in the sink and the butter back in the fridge before he nestles up to Apple’s side. Apple drops a little kiss to Gus’s forehead, both of them savouring their breakfast as the sun beams down on Antibes and their villa, filling the room with a comfortable warmth. Gus nudges closer, curling his free arm around Apple’s waist and tugging him nearer, pressing them both together from hip to knee.
Gus grins, bright in the dark shadow of his facial hair and Apple dips down to kiss him, licking a remnant of melted butter off his bottom lip. Gus hums and opens his mouth to Apple’s all consuming kisses, leaning back against the counter as his boyfriend presses in, humming softly at the feel of Apple’s tongue against his own. A warm hand curls against his jaw and tugs his mouth up, the hum of the kitchen appliances fading into the background as Apple’s kisses growing longer and filthier.
A quiet squeak cuts through the pleasant haze Gus is wrapped up in and he glances out of the corner of his eye towards the doorway. Haysey stands there, eyes wide and bottom lip firmly held between his teeth, blush painting his cheeks a startling but very endearing shade of pink. The same shade of pink that coloured his cheeks when he watched them poolside. Gus feels Apple smirk against his mouth and keeping a careful eye on the lad’s reactions, he leans up to lick into Apple’s mouth again. Haysey’s mouth drops open on an almost silent gasp and his hands quickly shift from hanging at his side to cover his crotch, Apple’s sharp eyes not missing the tent in the lad’s tight ripped jeans as he finally pulls away from Gus’s mouth. Gus licks his bottom lip and smiles, inviting Haysey closer with a tilt of his head.
Haysey makes the curious squeaking noise again and seems to shiver all over before he screws his eyes shut, seeming to sway on the spot. Apple and Gus share a look as they watch him, Apple’s eyes trailing greedily up the length of Haysey’s slim muscled legs to his crotch, still covered by his hands. Haysey blushes harder and flicks his eyes between Apple and Gus, mouth dropping open on a little gasped inhale as Gus invites him closer once more with a tilt of his chin, tangling his fingers with Apple’s gently.
Haysey jerks like he’s been shocked and spins on his heel, hobbling out of the room as fast as he can. Apple blinks at the spot he was standing in and then leans in to kiss Gus again, mouth hot and firm against his own. With a smile, he pulls back, leaning back against the counter as he looks to see if Haysey has returned.
“Well then. Maybe you and Freddy were right after all? We haven’t pushed too far and he is interested.”
Gus huffs a laugh and turns to get some orange juice from the fridge.
“Yes. We need to talk to Haysey as soon as we can then. Clear all this up so we can have him between us.”
Gus trails off as Lassen stumbles into the kitchen, bleary eyed and yawning.
“Later, yeah? When we’re all back,” Apple mutters as Gus offers the orange juice to Lassen, slipping out of the room to go and check that Gus has got their kit all ready to go.
~~
“Up you get Freddy!”
Haysey tugs Freddy up and over the railing, helping to keep him steady as he flails for balance.
“Christ, you do this for fun?” Freddy grumbles, righting his sunglasses where they’ve slipped down his nose in his wobble climbing on board. Haysey laughs loud and bright and strides off down the deck, unhooking the rope keeping the boat moored to the pier with a swift flick of his wrist. Freddy watches as he gets them underway, hands sure as they linger at the helm.
“What do you need me to do?”
“Nothing much for now. Just keep an eye on the harbour for me really. Make sure there’s nothing in the way.”
Freddy nods and clambers up to the front of the boat awkwardly, keeping his gaze as sharp as he can while he surveys the water and the surrounding boats. Haysey deftly guides them out of the harbour and into the glittering sunlit sea with no problem at all, the soft strains of an old fishing song floating on the breeze to where Freddy is sitting.
Various other pleasure and fishing boats float past them as they continue out, the deeper water splashing up and occasionally catching the edges of Freddy’s flip flop encased feet where he’s got them tucked against some spare rope. Their hair lifts in the breeze and Freddy turns to grin at Haysey, suddenly understanding a little of why people go out on boats all the time.
Haysey grins back, his joy clear to see and he lazily guides them on a weaving course, still half focused on the need to make it look like they’re just holidaymakers out for the day. The sun glints off the coastline as well as the sea and Haysey takes a deep breath, savouring the subtle seaweed tang to the air and the warmth seeping into his bones.
Freddy staggers back down to the helm and settles down next to Haysey, fiddling with a little packet of chewing gum and offering Haysey one. He takes it with a small murmur of thanks and Freddy chews quietly, mind turning over an idea he’s hesitant to voice - for once. He decides to just come out with it and apologise later if he happens to offend Haysey somehow.
“So….you, Apple and Gus huh?”
Haysey makes a curious choking noise and goes still, tugging his sunglasses down to glare at Freddy.
“There is no me, Apple and Gus , Freddy. What gave you that idea?”
Freddy grins brightly and sticks his tongue out.
“Oh nothing really. Just the way you watch them. And the way they watch you in return. Like they wanna eat you up. And the fact that they know you bought that little toy. And don’t forget the way Apple’s clearly been trying his hardest to seduce you.”
Haysey flushes and looks away, chewing his lip nervously. Freddy wonders if he’s gone too far and he’s about to say sorry when Haysey speaks again.
“You really think they wouldn’t mind? Me wanting them, I mean. I know you hinted at it earlier over breakfast but I thought you were just taking the piss.”
“No mate. I meant it. I’ve known them both long enough now to know what their “ I’m interested ” faces look like. God knows I had to put up with Apple’s pining for long enough when he first joined and Gus swanned around shirtless for a solid 2 weeks before he cracked and made out with him in the kitchen.”
“Where?” Haysey asks, eyes wide with confusion.
“Eh? Oh you mean……here of course. Years ago now. Apple joined not long after Gus announced we’d be more than just a crime fighting duo.” Freddy laughs at the memory and keeps talking, allowing Haysey to see just how deep his friendship with Gus and Apple goes - and hopefully reassuring Haysey in the process. “Apple couldn’t take his eyes off him. Ended up having to poke him on more than one occasion to get his attention whenever Gus was in the room.”
Haysey watches the play of emotions across Freddy’s face and knows that Freddy is allowing him closer in their little circle of friendship they’re finally building while they’re out on their op.
“To be fair I still have to do that sometimes if Gus is being particularly distracting when me and Apple are trying to plan something.”
“Like you’re any better when Lassen is in the room?” Haysey takes his chance to tease and gets a fond grin and eye roll in return.
“You know me by now. Couldn’t keep my eyes off my big Danish hunk if I tried.”
Freddy waggles his eyebrows and they both laugh, the slight tension in the air disappearing with every quiet chuckle Haysey lets out.
“Seriously though, trust me on this. They want you,” Haysey pulls a disbelieving face again and Freddy reaches out to playfully poke Haysey in the cheek, “ both of them want you. I mean it. I think they thought you’d be out of their league so that’s why they didn’t say anything at the beginning. But Apple wouldn’t be trying to seduce you if he didn’t mean it - if both of them weren’t on board with the idea.”
“Me? Out of their league? Are you kidding, Freddy? More like they’re out of mine.” Haysey whispers, turning his attention to the sea for a moment as he guides the Maid Honour past a line of little fishing craft bobbing just off shore.
Freddy suddenly spots the big yacht in the distance and subtly lifts his camera from the bag hanging between them, snapping a myriad of pictures as they slowly sail closer. He nudges Haysey with his foot as he stands, making his way towards one side of the boat to peer at the clear blue sea beneath them.
“Maybe you’re all perfect for each other, have you ever thought about that? I always thought Lassen wouldn’t pick me and here we are.”
Haysey hums noncommittally and guides them further out, slipping below deck for a minute or two to return with a couple of fishing rods and some nets. He sets them up easily enough, making sure the boat isn’t drifting too much while they keep an eye on the big yacht coming ever closer to their position.
“I’ll think on it, eh Freddy? Lets focus on this big fucking yacht first. Make sure to snap some decent pics eh?”
Freddy claps him on the shoulder and settles down next to the second rod, already reaching down to slip the lure onto the hook and send it over the side of the boat. He sets his camera by his knees, propping it up just right so he can continue taking subtle pictures every time he moves under the guise of adjusting his rod.
~~
Gus tips his chin into the breeze and sighs slowly, tightening his hand around Apple’s as they sit in the shade of the little cafe they’ve settled down to wait at. He spots Lassen strolling along further down the harbour with a book tucked under his muscled arm and he knows their Dane is keeping a keen eye on the sea in the hopes of spotting the Maid Honour.
He knows it’s more to keep an eye out for Freddy but the lingering thought that he’s also watching out for their newest lad knots a ball of warmth in his chest. Apple shifts next to him and puts his drink down quietly, eyes skimming over Lassen’s still visible outline before they rest on Gus.
“They’ll be fine. Haysey will be fine.”
Gus sighs and scrubs at his eyes with his free hand, “you think so?”
A speedboat zooms past, lifting a spray of water that glitters in the late afternoon sun and it takes both their attention for a moment, Gus resuming his talking when the waves have settled back down.
“What if…..what if it isn’t? Fine, I mean.”
Apple rolls his eyes and leans forward in his seat to grasp Gus’s jaw in his hand, fingers tangling in the fast growing beard and moustache to catch his full attention.
“Listen to me, love. We may have been blind to it at first but even you’ve seen the way the lad has looked at us both, separately and together. He can’t keep his eyes off you for a start.”
Gus huffs but allows Apple to continue when his fingers tighten warningly.
“I’ve seen the way he looks at me when he thinks I’m not looking. His eyes go all wide and dark. Hungry too, like yours do when you look at me in the shower or the pool.” Apple smirks but doesn’t give Gus any chance to reply just yet, “but the point is, Freddy’s also seen it and he’s of the mind that Haysey wants us. And we both know that Freddy saw a lot before we got together, eh old boy? I trust him not to lie to us.”
Gus smothers his chuckle with a wry twist of his lips, remembering the way himself and Apple danced around each other for a solid 3 months before Freddy’s grumbling and cajoling to each of them prodded them into voicing their growing feelings. Apple tugs on his beard gently before letting go, darting in for a quick kiss that Gus chases after.
“Oi, you! We’re meant to be paying attention to the yacht!” Apple whispers around a smile, teeth tugging on his bottom lip gently.
Gus huffs another laugh and turns back to face the sea, the sun almost blinding him as it bounces off the waves and the hulls of the pleasure craft that sail by, rammed to the rails with multiple tourists all with cameras in hand. Apple leans into his side and plays up the “loving couple” facade they hurriedly agreed on as they sat down to order their drinks.
Gus sips at the flavoured gin & tonic he asked for, Apple’s own sparkly cocktail adding to the image they’re easily portraying. He curls his arm tighter around Apple’s shoulder and settles back to boat watch, both of them making sure to play on their phones from time to time to not give the game away. Lassen’s disappeared into the crowd, his bulk hidden surprisingly easy as the locals and tourists alike mingle in the summer sun.
The yacht in question sails by in the distance, the striking grey-painted hull reflecting hardly any light as the waves splash and ripple around her.
“Duchessa to your far right,” Gus whispers around the rim of his glass.
Apple - to his credit - doesn’t even react, continuing to scroll on his phone as he peers out of the corner of his eye at the yacht in question. He frowns as he spots the way all the other craft instinctually avoid her, even the largest of the pleasure boats steaming past at a higher speed than usual. He understands why the longer he watches, the security on the boat coming up to the railing and physically waving them away.
Gus tenses when he spots it too, glass thudding onto the table a little harsher than he means to. Apple soothes him with a gentle touch to his thigh, knocking their knees together.
“Easy, Gus. Easy now,” he murmurs, leaning in to kiss his cheek as he peers out at the sea. “They’ve gone. I wonder how much Lassen, Freddy and Haysey will spot while they’re out? We’re going to have to pull a shift each on the Maid Honour I think, if we want to stand a chance at working out how many guards we’ll have to take down when we board.”
Gus nods at his logic and checks his phone, hoping there’ll be a text from Freddy or even Haysey with an update. Unsurprisingly, there’s nothing there and Gus hides his grumble of discontent by finishing his drink.
“Come on. Let’s go and walk down to meet Lassen. See what he’s got to say on the matter.”
Apple polishes off his drink and stands fluidly, tugging Gus up onto his feet with a firm grasp on his hand.
“You never know, Haysey might have text us by the time we get down to Lassen.”
Apple grins and swings their joined hands between them, not so secretly hoping for the same.
~~
Lassen enjoys the warmth of the sun on his shoulders, relaxing the tense muscles the longer he’s out in it. He hopes Freddy and Haysey are being careful on the Maid Honour - the thought of Freddy being in a danger he can’t fight making him tense up all over again. He lets out a big breath through his nose and slumps back into the bench he’s settled down on, the book in his hand almost slipping through his fingers and he makes an effort to relax. He grabs at it reflexively and chuckles as he accidentally bends the front cover slightly.
Lassen smiles and smooths it down, glad Apple isn’t here to witness his little book faux pas and he looks up at the sound of a speedboat zooming past, larger waves rippling across the beach in its wake. The sight of a large grey-painted hull looms into the serene view he’s looking out at and Lassen focuses up, flicking open his book and pretending like he’s reading as he watches the superyacht float by.
The amount of men on the railing intrigues Lassen and he narrows his eyes in thought as he rapidly counts. He reaches 15 before they all step back inside the ship, one man staying put at either end of the ship as it continues on its way into Port Vauban harbour. Lassen can’t be sure they’re not packing weapons - making a mental note to inspect the satellite photos they received earlier even more closely to see if they are carrying at all.
A young couple ambles past and blocks his view, the young woman’s flirtatious giggle making him chuckle softly as he thinks of his own relationship with Freddy. He idly debates texting Freddy to check in and eventually decides he will, wanting to hear from his boyfriend and make sure the plan is still going smoothly. He can just about make out the Maid Honour in the middle of all the crafts on the sea, her shiny dark wood hull reflecting the sun’s bright heat in sharp little glints.
His phone buzzes in his hand and he smiles to see the string of emojis Freddy has sent in reply to his question, another message popping up before he can reply to the first. It’s a selfie of him and Haysey, both of them smiling happily towards the phone. Lassen reacts to it with a string of hearts and then zooms in on the picture, realising what Freddy’s done with a hearty laugh. The Duchessa is clearly visible in the background, at least one guard seen standing against the railing.
Lassen zooms back out and his eyes drift to Freddy’s happy face, lingering on the upward curve of his lips as he beams at the phone. He puts his phone down as the sun goes behind a cloud, shading the whole harbour in dimness for a brief moment. Another couple strolls past, the young man holding a bouquet of roses and it gives Lassen an idea for a quick present for Freddy.
He’ll be living up to his heartsnatcher name in more ways than one when he gives Freddy his unplanned gift and the thought makes Lassen grin as he looks back out towards the sea. An elbow nudges his own and he glances across to see Apple and Gus settling down onto the seat next to him, only half playing up their “loved up couple” appearance. Lassen barely reacts as a horde of tourists swarm past them, small children screaming and shouting as they run by.
Gus nods once over Apple’s shoulder in Lassen’s direction and Lassen nods back, keeping a close eye on the people who come past. He doesn’t think anyone should be nosy enough to listen in on their conversation as they go past but he doesn’t want to risk it so Lassen simply knocks their feet together and casually passes his phone over. The photo of Haysey and Freddy sits bright on his screen and Lassen doesn’t miss the way Gus’s eyes zero in on Haysey’s face.
Apple double taps the screen to zoom in and scans the whole photo, moving it left to right as he absorbs all the details he can. Lassen also doesn’t miss that Apple zooms in just that little bit more on Haysey’s face before he focuses back on the ship clearly visible in the background. Apple passes the phone over to Gus and looks out at the sea, eyes scanning the horizon for the Maid Honour. He doesn’t spot it and tries valiantly to hide his disappointment and Lassen very kindly doesn’t say a word, also scanning the view in the hopes of spotting the boat but she’s moved out of their view entirely by now.
He turns to say something to Gus and finds the other man staring at his phone.
“You do know staring wistfully won’t make him suddenly appear at your side, right?”
Gus jerks like Lassen has said something shocking and looks up to find himself being watched closely. He flushes and hurriedly hands the phone back to Lassen before sitting back and crossing his arms over his chest. Apple hides his smile behind his hands and settles back against his side.
“No shame in it,” Lassen adds. “You both know me and Freddy were the same when you first introduced us.”
Apple laughs at the memory and nudges Gus when he doesn’t say anything.
“I certainly remember that. Come on Gus. Pining won’t get us anywhere.”
Lassen’s phone vibrates with another incoming message and he swiftly unlocks it to see Freddy has text him again.
“They’re almost back. We going down to meet them?”
Apple and Gus share a silent conversation and then nod, turning to look around them at the fading crowd.
“Yeah come on. There’s enough people left to try and hide our meeting. Let’s go down to them.”
They all stand as one and split apart to make their way past the lingering crowds, joining back up soon enough as they reach the opening to the marina. Freddy is already standing off to the side as Haysey moors the boat securely, hands steady and sure as he does his job properly.
Lassen ignores what Apple and Gus are doing as he goes to join Freddy, wrapping his arms around Freddy’s waist tightly. Freddy leans back into Lassen’s chest and tips his chin backwards to smile up at him. They share a quiet greeting while Apple walks past to help Haysey.
“All good lad?”
Haysey glances up and smiles shyly, nodding just the once.
“Yeah, all good. I’ll fill you all in back at the villa. You all good?”
“All good, lad. Shall we get going then?”
~~
They all pile into the villa, Freddy and Haysey beelining for the kitchen the minute the door is open. They chatter away happily as Freddy begins cooking a slap up late lunch for the five of them. Lassen sits at the breakfast bar, perching delicately on the bar stool as he flicks through his phone slowly, occasionally showing Freddy something interesting. Haysey boosts himself up onto the unoccupied counter and swings his feet gently, alternating between watching Freddy and Apple.
Apple’s whispering something to Freddy under his breath, gently rolling a peach in his hand. Haysey wonders where he got it from and then suddenly remembers that Lassen went out to the market yesterday, fetching a curiously large amount of fresh fruit; apple’s and peaches making up the most of the haul. Apple brings it up to his mouth and nibbles at it, humming happily at the fresh, sweet taste across his tongue.
Haysey turns his attention from Apple to Gus as he hums and drops into a seat at the table, already beginning to type out his report. The clack of the keyboard is faint under the sound of sizzling vegetables, the smell filling the villa and making all their mouths water. Gus licks his lips and keeps typing, focused entirely on his work as he cycles through some of the pictures he took on his phone.
“Lassen? Send me that picture please?”
Lassen nods and pings it across, Gus’s phone beeping quietly as the picture comes through. Apple keeps chewing away, slurping loudly when Haysey looks back at him and winking for good measure. Haysey chews the inside of his cheek and keeps watching, glancing nervously around the room every so often to see if anyone else is looking. Gus looks up every now and then whenever Freddy makes a noise towards the pan he’s using but no one else is paying any attention.
Apple grins around another mouthful of peach and slowly winks again at Haysey, obscenely licking his bottom lip to chase a stray droplet of juice away. Haysey gulps loudly and cuts his eyes to the floor, trying to get his traitorous body under control. Apple keeps making the same slurping noises but quieter, waiting until Haysey looks back at him before he grins again, making a point of sucking on his thumb as he keeps eye contact. Haysey knows he’s blushing bright red as he keeps watching, mouth dropping open once again as he tries to bury the urge to walk over and suck Apple’s fingers himself. He wonders how much longer Apple will be continuing with his seducing tactics - he’s not sure his heart can take much more.
Freddy finishes cooking with a little flourish, switching off the hob and flipping the contents of the pan onto the plates he put on the side earlier. Freddy settles down next to Lassen with a pair of forks and starts eating, only glancing up when Apple makes another soft slurping sound. Freddy pauses with his food halfway to his mouth and looks between Haysey, Apple and Gus and back again. With a small nod, Freddy drops Haysey a wink across the room and stands up, dragging Lassen with him.
“We’ll be outside if you need us.”
They disappear quickly, their chatter fading into the distance as Freddy and Lassen make themselves comfortable sitting at the little outdoor dining table. Gus looks up as Apple hums softly, finishing his peach in a few quick bites before he leans back against the counter and pins Haysey with a look.
“I think we’re due a talk, eh lad?”
Haysey feels something like ice slide down his spine but he nods all the same, knowing if he refuses it might look a bit suspicious now they’re alone. He just prays that this is Apple finally ending his seducing and being upfront with him.
“Shall we go to our room?” Haysey hesitates and Apple continues, “more privacy if you’d prefer to think of it that way?”
Haysey chews his lip and slides off the counter, attempting to hide the fact he’s half hard from Apple’s little peach eating show. Judging from the way Gus smirks as he stands from the table, he’s not hiding it very well. Apple brushes up against his back as he lingers in the kitchen, nerves knotting his stomach so much he’s starting to feel sick. Gus rubs a gentle hand down his back and he takes a few halting steps towards their bedroom, praying that they’ll be kind enough and not shout at him when they’re alone. He doesn’t know why he’s suddenly so convinced that they’re going to have a go at him after Apple’s blatantly just eyed fucked him while eating a peach but his brain is a weird thing sometimes.
Gus slips ahead of him to open the door and Haysey comes to a halt just inside, Apple slipping behind him to shut it. He can feel Apple’s body heat radiating out from behind him and Haysey locks his knees to try and stop himself from relaxing into it. Apple beats him to it as he curls a warm arm around his waist, tugging him back into the warmth of his chest and Haysey barely stops himself from sighing happily. Gus grins at them both and Haysey suddenly remembers that they wanted to speak to him and he tenses up again, turning to look at Apple over his shoulder.
Apple shares a look with Gus before he leans in, brushing his lips gently against Haysey’s. He blinks at Apple and doesn’t move, pulling back to look Apple in the eye.
“What’s happening right now?”
Haysey hates how quiet and small his voice is as he asks that question and Apple must sense some of his worry over it as he shifts his arms to rest one around his shoulder and tug him in for a comforting hug.
“Unless we’ve misread the signals….we thought you might be interested in joining us?”
Haysey shivers at Apple’s whispered words and looks back towards Gus, finding him standing only a few steps away from the both of them.
“J-just for a night?” Haysey wishes with all he has that it’s not just one night they want but he’ll take what he can get to satisfy his curiousity.
Gus shares a small smile with Apple before he reaches out to brush a stray lock of hair off Haysey’s forehead.
“Not if you want more. Though it’s entirely up to you. We’d certainly like it if you stayed for longer than a night.”
Haysey turns back to Apple and locks eyes with him, finding his own want reflected back at him and Haysey can’t fight the grin spreading across his lips. He wants to kiss Apple again but he makes a split second decision, trusting his gut that he’s doing the right thing as he wriggles about in Apple’s arms and turns to face Gus properly. He reaches out to curl his hands around Gus’s neck and tugs him closer, brushing their noses together before he gently kisses him.
Gus curls one arm around Haysey and one arm around Apple as he presses even closer, leaning in for another kiss. He knows he’s made the right choice picking Gus to kiss first as he feels Gus lick across his bottom lip gently. Apple makes a soft noise from behind them and begins pressing feather light kisses to Haysey’s neck. Gus pulls away and tilts Haysey’s chin up to meet his eyes.
“You’re okay with it?”
Haysey lets a little delirious giggle loose and nods. “Honestly? More than okay with it. Truth be told, you’re the reason I knew I was gay.”
Gus gapes at him and Apple can’t help the laugh that bubbles free, tugging both of them closer until they’re pressed flush from hip to shoulder. Haysey blushes and tries to hide in Gus’s shoulder but gets stopped with a gentle touch to his cheek.
“Seriously?”
“Yeah. Yeah when you showed up for the funeral. God I was so confused. But you seemed to make everything make sense when I needed it most. It went from there I guess?” Haysey shrugs like that answers the rest of the question and falls silent, sighing softly when Apple rubs a soothing hand across his shoulders.
Gus tightens his grip on Haysey and darts in for another kiss, gently pushing Haysey and Apple back until they’re pressed up against the door and at Gus’s mercy. He nuzzles Haysey’s forehead as he leans in to kiss Apple, licking into his mouth with frenzy. Haysey wriggles between them as Gus and Apple’s hands begin to wander, sliding across his hips and stomach gently and teasingly.
“Stay with us?” Apple whispers into his ear, nuzzling at the soft skin of his neck when Haysey turns his head for another kiss. “All night?”
“All the time if you’ll have me?” Haysey mutters into Apple’s mouth, giggling softly when Apple nods and kisses him harder.
Apple’s so glad they decided to take a chance on flirting with Haysey as Gus begins dragging them towards the bed, hands already tugging frantically at their clothing. Apple turns to double check that the door is locked - he’s not having any interruptions from Freddy or Lassen while they’re busy and when he turns back he finds that Gus has already stripped Haysey of his shirt and is busy leaving love bites down his chest.
With a grin, Apple practically bounces over to the bed, crawling up and joining Haysey in the middle of the bed so he can kiss their lad senseless.