Weekdays at Piltover Academy always felt endless, but for Jayce Talis, this one had stretched into an eternity. Each day brought new disasters, piling on like storm clouds clinging to him as he trudged across campus.
Monday set the tone for disaster. His partner for Professor Heimerdinger’s advanced engineering class—a councilor’s entitled kid who insisted he “knew what he was doing”—had begged to handle the final touches on their project. Reluctantly, Jayce handed over the reins.
The result? A presentation that ended in a puff of singed copper and blue sparks.
“Maybe next time,” Heimerdinger had said with a disappointed shake of his furry head, “you should supervise your partner more closely.”
Tuesday wasn’t any kinder. Jayce, running late and juggling an armful of research papers, managed to trip over his own feet, sending everything flying. Naturally, it happened directly in front of Mel Medarda.
The elegant student council member crouched gracefully, her perfectly manicured fingers gathering his scattered papers with practiced ease.
“Careful, Talis,” she said, her words laced with amusement as she handed him the stack. “Wouldn’t want you to ruin that brilliant mind of yours.”
Jayce had muttered a stammered thanks, cheeks burning, but the damage to his pride was done.
By Wednesday, things only got worse. He learned his research report—one he thought was due that day—had actually been due the week prior. Pleading with the professor for mercy earned him nothing but a withering response.
“Deadlines are crucial in academia, Mr. Talis. Without them, progress falters.”
Jayce groaned, rubbing his temples as he slumped out of the classroom. Another strike against him. If the week kept going like this, he’d be lucky to salvage his grades—or his sanity.
Thursday should have been his saving grace. Jayce had finally perfected his blueprint for a prosthetic device designed to stabilize shaky hands. He’d even signed the plans with a flourish, brimming with cautious optimism. Then, during dinner, an overly caffeinated student stumbled past, spilling coffee all over his hard work. The ink smeared beyond recognition, Jayce’s painstaking work dissolving into a blackened mess.
By the time Friday rolled around, Jayce was ready to lock himself in his dorm, drown his sorrows in caffeine, and pretend the week hadn’t happened. That plan lasted until his phone buzzed.
Caitlyn Kiramman.
Jayce sighed as he answered his phone. “Hey, Cait. What’s up?”
Caitlyn’s voice bubbled with energy. “What are you doing tonight?”
“Uh… nothing. Just relaxing, probably.”
“Wrong answer,” came a second voice—Vi’s unmistakable boisterous tone. “It’s Cupcake’s birthday, genius!”
Jayce blinked, his stomach sinking. “Wait. Cait, it’s your—oh no. I totally forgot.”
Caitlyn laughed softly. “You can make it up to me by coming out with us tonight.”
“Where?” Jayce asked warily, already dreading the answer.
“You’ll see,” Caitlyn said with a teasing lilt. “Pick us up in an hour.”
Jayce groaned, pinching the bridge of his nose. So much for a quiet night.
An hour later, he stood outside Caitlyn’s house, hands shoved deep in his jacket pockets. He knocked twice, and the door swung open to reveal Caitlyn, her usual polished appearance swapped for something far more casual—her hair loose around her shoulders, her dress simple but stylish. Behind her, Vi was sprawled on the couch, holding a glass of something decidedly non-alcoholic in one hand and gesturing animatedly with the other.
“Jayce!” Caitlyn greeted him with a warm hug, her perfume light and floral. “Thanks for coming.”
“Yeah, yeah,” he mumbled, trying to sound upbeat. “So, where are we going?”
Vi grinned from behind her glass, mischief dancing in her eyes. “That’s classified. Just drive, Talis.”
The drive was chaotic, with Caitlyn and Vi bickering over directions, laughter punctuating every wrong turn they sent him on. Jayce gripped the wheel tighter as the streets blurred past in a confusing mix of glowing signs and dim alleyways, a low buzz of unease settling in his chest. Finally, after what felt like an eternity, the car came to a stop outside a nondescript alleyway bathed in iridescent colors.
Jayce frowned as he followed them down a dimly lit staircase, flickering neon casting strange shadows on the walls. “What is this place?” he asked, the bass-heavy music from below growing louder with every step.
“You’ll love it,” Vi promised, grabbing Caitlyn’s hand and pulling her along with surprising gentleness.
At the door, a burly bouncer greeted Caitlyn and Vi with a smile, letting them breeze through without question. Jayce, however, wasn’t so lucky.
“ID,” the bouncer said, his tone neutral but his imposing presence undeniable.
Jayce fumbled for his wallet, handing over his ID. The bouncer studied it for an agonizingly long moment before his lips quirked into a smirk.
“Alright, you’re good,” he said, handing it back. “Have fun, lover boy.”
Jayce’s face burned as he snatched the card back. “I’m not—whatever.” He stalked past the bouncer, muttering under his breath.
Inside, the club surged with energy, the heavy bass thrumming through the floorboards and rising to settle in Jayce’s chest like a second heartbeat. Bright lights painted the room in shades of pink and blue, casting fractured shadows that danced against mirrored walls. The air was thick with a heady mix of cologne and floral notes, mingling with the faint, bitter tang of spilled drinks and sweat.
Jayce didn’t linger to take it all in. He made a beeline for the bar, the chaotic energy around him pressing too close for comfort. Slumping against the counter, he buried his head in his arms, already regretting his decision to leave the safety of his dorm.
“Long night already?”
The voice was smooth, accented with a sharpness that cut through the noise like a scalpel. Jayce glanced up, his eyes locking onto a pair of keen, golden irises studying him from beneath arched brows. The bartender’s smirk was faint, but there was a calculating edge behind it.
“Not really your business, is it?” Jayce muttered, leaning onto the counter in an attempt to deflect.
The man raised an eyebrow, his smirk deepening. “No, but the scowl on your face is hard to ignore. You look like someone who just tried to solve a problem with brute force and failed miserably.”
Jayce straightened, frowning. “That’s… oddly specific.”
The bartender reached for a glass, filling it with water. “Some things are easy to read” He slid the glass across the counter with the precision of someone who didn’t leave room for error. “You’ll want to hydrate before you order something stronger. Trust me.”
Jayce eyed the glass but didn’t reach for it. “What makes you think I need advice?”
“You seem like the type who acts first and thinks later,” The brown haired man stated as if it were obvious, his tone teasing but tempered with observation. “That doesn’t always work out, does it?”
Jayce frowned, feeling both called out and oddly intrigued. “And what makes you think you know me so well?”
“Call it intuition,” The latter replied, his gaze lingering, sharp and calculating.
Jayce snorted. “Right. What are you, the philosopher of overpriced drinks?”
“Something like that,” the man replied smoothly, his smirk returning. “Though I prefer to think of myself as a realist. Now drink the water. You’ll argue better hydrated.”
Jayce hesitated, then grabbed the glass, the cool condensation slick against his fingers. “Thanks, I guess,” he muttered, though the smallest smile betrayed him.
The bartender’s smile lingered, faint but deliberate, as his eyes swept over Jayce. “I’m Viktor,” he said, his tone measured, almost curious. “Let me know if I can be of… further assistance.”
Jayce nodded awkwardly, trying—and failing—not to notice the details: the faint scars tracing Viktor’s forearms, just visible where his sleeves were rolled up; the way his sharp gaze lingered for a beat too long before he turned to attend to another customer.
With a sigh, Jayce sipped the water Viktor had offered, but it did little to quell the pounding in his head. The bass thrumming through the club only worsened the ache, and he pressed his fingers against his temple, silently cursing Caitlyn and Vi for dragging him here.
Out of the corner of his eye, Jayce noticed Viktor absently wiping down the countertop before eventually making his way back in front of him.His golden eyes flicked toward Jayce, a trace of wry amusement dancing in their depths. He placed the rag to the side and leaned onto the counter, resting his head on his hands, forming a loose bridge beneath his chin.
“What is it?” Jayce asked, acutely aware of Viktor’s steady gaze.
“This place…” Viktor’s eyes flicked briefly to their surroundings before returning to Jayce. “It doesn’t seem like your usual choice of venue.”
Jayce frowned, leaning back slightly as if to shake off the observation. “And what exactly makes you think that?”
Viktor’s smirk was faint but pointed. “The way you’re sitting like the chair might swallow you whole. That, and you’ve checked the door three times since you walked in.”
Jayce let out a sigh, his hand dragging through his hair. “Cait and Vi thought this would be a fun surprise. It’s Caitlyn’s birthday, so saying no wasn’t really an option.”
Viktor hummed softly, his smirk lingering as his gaze flicked over to the dance floor and back to Jayce. “And yet, you sit here like a man awaiting trial.”
Jayce huffed a quiet laugh and held his hands up in mock surrender. “Jayce Talis. Reluctant party guest and apparent object of scrutiny tonight.”
Viktor’s golden eyes studied him briefly, clicking his tongue from the roof of his mouth, “It’s not scrutiny. Just an observation.”
Jayce leaned back, his lips quirking into a half-smile. “An observation, huh? You always this thorough?”
“Only when it’s worth the effort,” Viktor quipped, his smirk deepening.
Jayce softly laughed, his cheeks dusting a light rose. He broke eye contact with the man across from him, opting to look down into his cup, lightly swirling the water around inside, watching as the cool liquid jostled back and forth.
“So…” Viktor began, drumming his fingers across the wooden top, breaking Jayce out of his stupor. “I take it you agreed to come here without knowing where ‘here’ was?”
Jayce shrugged, “Yeah, why?”
“Oh, nothing.” Viktor’s voice was light, but the widening grin on his face gave him away. “You must trust your friends a great deal. Or you’re very, very oblivious.”
Jayce blinked, narrowing his eyes. “What makes you say that?”
Viktor straightened, gesturing broadly with one hand. “Take a look around, my friend. I’ll give you a moment.”
Reluctantly, Jayce turned in his seat, properly taking in the club for the first time. His eyes widened as they flitted over the barely-dressed dancers commanding the stage, the neon-soaked rainbow decor, and the lively crowd eagerly tossing bills at the performers.
The realization hit him like a freight train. He spun back around so fast he nearly knocked over his water, small droplets making their way out onto the sleek top. “This… is a gay strip club,” he muttered, voice barely audible.
Viktor chuckled, the sound low and warm. “An astute observation. You’re quite the detective.”
Jayce dragged a hand down his face, heat rising to his cheeks. “I didn’t—look, this isn’t my scene, alright? I’m just here for my friends.”
“Of course,” Viktor said, his voice dripping with amusement as he leaned against the counter. “Entirely for your friends.”
“It is!” Jayce insisted, though the pink blossoming across his face made it seem otherwise.
Viktor’s smirk deepened as he leaned closer, his elbows resting on the bar. “Relax. No one’s judging you.”
Jayce glared at him but said nothing, opting instead to take a large gulp of water, as if that might extinguish the heat burning in his face.
For a moment, they sat in comfortable silence, Viktor occasionally glancing Jayce’s way with an expression that screamed he was holding back a laugh.
Finally, Jayce broke the tension with a question that spilled out before he could think it through. “Why aren’t you dancing?”
Viktor raised a brow, his smirk curling into something more dangerous. “You think I should?”
Jayce faltered, realizing too late what he’d implied. “I didn’t mean—well, you’ve got the looks for it—no, I just—”
Viktor threw his head back and laughed, a deep, genuine sound that sent a shiver down Jayce’s spine. “You’re far too easy to fluster. It’s almost cruel.”
Jayce let out a small pout, “Whatever,” He muttered, his eyes fixed anywhere but on Viktor’s face.
Viktor leaned in again, his grin softening slightly. “I’ll tell you a secret. My leg isn’t what it used to be. Dancing’s not exactly in my repertoire these days.”
Jayce frowned, his embarrassment momentarily forgotten. “Your leg?”
Viktor tapped his right leg lightly against the bar. “An old injury. Nothing worth ruining the mood over” Then, as if catching the flicker of concern in Jayce’s expression, his smirk sharpened into something more mischievous. “But I do have… other talents. Should you ever wish to explore them.”
Jayce’s jaw dropped, his brain scrambling for a response as his face flushed a vibrant red. “I—uh—”
Viktor chuckled, the rich, velvety sound carrying a weight of amusement that only deepened Jayce’s mortification. “You’re adorable, truly.”
Jayce opened his mouth again, desperate to say something, but his mind stalled, leaving him gaping like a fish out of water. Viktor, satisfied with his handiwork, turned back to polishing the counter, a glint of triumph in his golden eyes.
By the time Jayce managed to regain some semblance of composure, his cheeks still faintly stained pink, Caitlyn and Vi reappeared. Their faces were flushed, either from dancing, drinking, or some dangerous combination of both.
“There you are!” Caitlyn exclaimed, sliding onto the barstool beside him with all the grace of someone who’d had one too many.
Vi plopped onto the stool on his other side, her grin wide and wolfish. “Hiding out over here like a loser, huh?” she teased, giving his shoulder a playful shove. “Time to join the fun!”
“I’m perfectly fine here,” Jayce protested, his tone more pleading than firm.
“Nope,” Vi said decisively, grabbing his arm in a vice grip. “We’re dragging you to one of the stages.”
“Absolutely not,” Jayce said, completely baffled while digging in his heels. His objections, however, fell on deaf ears as Caitlyn joined forces with Vi, both of them hauling him off his stool with alarming coordination.
As they pulled him toward the back of the club, Jayce cast a desperate glance over his shoulder at Viktor. The bartender met his gaze with a raised eyebrow, his smirk firmly intact. “Don’t worry,” Viktor called after him, “I’ll keep your drink safe.”
Jayce groaned but had no time to retort as Caitlyn and Vi dragged him toward a smaller stage. The crowd near the stage erupted into cheers as a dancer finished their routine, strutting offstage with a confident wink. Jayce’s eyes widened as he took in the glittering, barely-there outfit and the piles of cash left in their wake.
“Oh no,” he muttered, dread pooling in his stomach as the reality of the situation dawned on him.
Caitlyn clapped her hands together in delight. “This is perfect!” She twisted back toward the bar, waving wildly. “Viktor! Three more drinks!”
Jayce turned to her, incredulous. “Are you serious? I’m driving!”
Caitlyn waved dismissively, her grin unbothered. “Relax. One of our friends got us a hotel nearby. We’re not going back tonight.”
Jayce stared at her, speechless. “You could’ve told me that before you dragged me here!”
“And miss this?” Vi said with a wicked grin, gesturing at the stage. “No way.”
A few moments later, Viktor arrived with a tray of colorful fruity cocktails and glasses of amber liquid. He set the drinks down on a nearby table, his golden eyes glued on Jayce.
“Still surviving, I see,” Viktor said, his tone playful.
“Barely,” Jayce muttered, his voice dry.
Viktor chuckled, the sound smooth and rich. It sent an unwelcome shiver down Jayce’s spine, though he quickly blamed it on the chilly club air. “Good,” Viktor said, his smirk widening. “I’d hate for you to miss the main event.”
Before Jayce could ask what he meant, the music shifted. A sultry, rhythmic beat filled the room, commanding attention as a new performer took the stage. Tall and lean, the dancer moved with fluid, hypnotic grace, their confidence radiating with every step.
Jayce tried to look away—he really did—but the combination of the pulsing music, the flashing lights, and the dancer’s magnetic presence made it impossible. His gaze lingered, much to his dismay.
Caitlyn nudged him, giggling like a teenager at a sleepover. “See? Isn’t this fun?”
Jayce groaned, burying his face in his hands before reaching for a drink. “I hate both of you,” he grumbled.
Vi raised her glass in a mock toast, her grin wicked. “To corrupting Jayce!”
Reluctantly, Jayce downed half his drink in one go. The alcohol was warm as it coursed through him, easing the tension in his shoulders but doing little to cool the heat in his face.
The performer onstage continued their routine, their fluid movements drawing cheers and whistles from the crowd. Jayce tried to focus on anything else—the neon lights, the rim of his glass, the smug look on Viktor’s face from across the room—but then, to his absolute horror, the dancer turned their attention to him.
Jayce froze as the dancer extended a hand, their smile equal parts inviting and mischievous.
“This can’t be happening,” Jayce muttered, his brain short-circuiting. Around him, the crowd roared with encouragement. Caitlyn and Vi were laughing hysterically, clearly reveling in his discomfort.
“Nope,” Jayce said firmly, shaking his head. He tried to lean back further in his seat, his back suffocating the plush cushion. “Absolutely not—”
But Caitlyn was faster. “Oh, yes!” she declared, giving him a hard shove forward.
Jayce stumbled into the dancer’s waiting grip, his protests dying in his throat. Before he could process what was happening, he found himself hoisted onto the stage.
The room erupted into deafening cheers, whistles echoing from every corner as Jayce stood rooted under the neon lights, wide-eyed and mortified.
The dancer circled him with the calculated grace of a predator, their movements deliberate and fluid. Jayce’s heart pounded in his chest, his mind racing to figure out an escape plan—or at least how to survive the next five minutes.
“Move your hips!” Vi’s voice cut through the chaos, her cackling laughter making it clear she was having the time of her life.
“Smile, Jayce!” Caitlyn called, her voice tinged with barely concealed glee. “You look like you’re being held hostage!”
Jayce glared at her but didn’t have time to retort. The dancer reached out, their hand light on his shoulder as they leaned in, their voice cutting through the music like a lifeline. “Relax, big guy. Just follow my lead.”
Jayce swallowed hard and managed a shaky nod. His limbs felt like lead, but the dancer’s grip was steady as they guided him into a simple sway. The crowd roared their approval, and Jayce’s cheeks burned as he awkwardly tried to mimic the movements.
At first, it was hopeless. Jayce’s steps were heavy, his body uncooperative, and every attempt to sway with the beat felt painfully forced. But the dancer remained patient, their encouragement soft but consistent, their hands gently steering him into a rhythm.
“Loosen up,” the dancer said, their grin infectious. “You’re doing fine.”
Jayce didn’t believe the dancer’s reassurances for a second, but he forced himself to take a deep breath and focus. Gradually, the stiffness in his limbs began to melt away, his movements syncing—albeit hesitantly—with the pulsing beat of the music.
And then his gaze wandered to the bar.
There, leaning against the counter with the casual confidence of someone entirely in their element, was Viktor. His golden eyes were locked on Jayce, glinting with unmistakable amusement. His smirk had grown impossibly wider, and his shoulders shook with silent laughter.
When their eyes met, Viktor let out a soft chuckle, lifting a hand to cover his mouth in a futile attempt to stifle it. The sight made Jayce’s embarrassment flare anew, and he quickly looked away, his face hot enough to rival the club’s neon lights.
But even as he tried to refocus on the dancer in front of him, the image of Viktor laughing lingered in his mind. Strangely, it took some of the sting out of the situation, replacing humiliation with a reluctant determination.
The dancer twirled Jayce suddenly, pulling him closer with a dramatic flourish that sent the crowd into a frenzy. Jayce stumbled, his hand brushing against the dancer’s bare shoulder.
“Oops,” he muttered, barely audible over the noise.
The dancer winked, their smile sly and confident. “You’re a natural.”
Jayce snorted despite himself, his lips curving into an unsteady grin. “Sure, let’s go with that.”
The crowd roared with approval as the dancer stepped back, gesturing grandly for Jayce to take the spotlight.
Jayce froze, panic flashing across his face as the spotlight quite literally fell on him.
“Go on!” Caitlyn shouted, her voice cutting through the noise like a dagger. “Show us what you’ve got!”
“Don’t make me come up there!” Vi added, waving her glass in mock threat, her laughter loud and unrestrained.
Jayce groaned, dragging a hand through his hair as the cheers from the crowd pressed in around him. With no real way out, he turned back to the dancer, who was watching him with an expectant but patient smile.
Taking a shaky step forward, Jayce did his best to mimic what he’d seen on dance floors before—rolling his shoulders, swaying his hips—but every motion felt exaggerated, awkward, and painfully unnatural.
To his surprise, the crowd didn’t seem to care. Every tentative sway, every stilted move, was met with enthusiastic cheers and whistles.
And then his gaze shifted once again to Viktor.
Viktor hadn’t moved an inch, his chin still resting lazily on his hand as he watched. The intensity of his gaze made Jayce’s pulse quicken, but something was different now. Viktor’s expression was softer, almost approving, though the glint of humor in his golden eyes remained.
When Viktor chuckled again, clearly at Jayce’s expense, something shifted inside him. A spark of defiance flared in Jayce’s chest. If Viktor was going to laugh, Jayce might as well give him something worth laughing about.
Taking another deep breath, Jayce squared his shoulders and began to move with more confidence. His hips swayed to the rhythm of the music, and his movements became smoother, more deliberate.
The crowd responded immediately, their cheers growing louder with every motion. The dancer clapped him on the back, their smile wide and approving. For the first time that night, Jayce allowed himself to relax—and maybe even enjoy the moment.
With his confidence surging, Jayce raised his arms in a mock victory pose, earning a fresh wave of whistles and applause. His earlier embarrassment melted into exhilaration as the stage lights flashed around him.
When the routine finally ended, Jayce stepped off the stage to a thunderous round of applause. Relief mingled with pride as he made his way back with Caitlyn and Vi to the bar, his cheeks still flushed from the attention.
“That was incredible!” Caitlyn exclaimed, throwing her arms around him in a giddy hug.
“You’re a legend, Jayce,” Vi added, raising her glass. “I’m so proud.”
Jayce groaned, his face still red. “Never again. Ever.”
“Aw, don’t be like that,” Caitlyn teased, nudging his shoulder playfully. “You were great!”
“Great is a strong word,” Jayce muttered, though the faint curve of a smile betrayed him.
Before Caitlyn could retort, Viktor turned around from behind the counter, carrying a fresh drink for Jayce. There was warmth in his gaze now, one that hadn’t been there before.
“Impressive,” Viktor said, placing the glass down in front of Jayce with a clink. “You seemed to enjoy yourself by the end.”
Jayce shot him a look, his tone dry but his lips twitching. “Glad you were entertained.”
“Very much so,” Viktor replied smugly.
Jayce felt heat creep up his neck as his cheeks turned pink again. He was convinced his face would remain that color the rest of the night. Avoiding Viktor’s gaze, he reached for his drink, taking a long sip to mask his embarrassment.
Viktor chuckled, leaning casually against the countertop. “Relax, Jayce,” he said, his voice low and teasing, with an edge of sincerity. “You did well. Better than most, I’d say.”
Jayce glanced at him, slightly embarrassed. “Thanks, I guess.”
“Anytime,” Viktor said, his gaze lingering a beat longer than necessary before he straightened and sauntered over to serve a customer.
Jayce watched him go, his heart thudding unevenly in his chest.
Standing awkwardly at the bar, Jayce tried to shake the whirlwind of emotions swirling through him. The alcohol, the lingering embarrassment from his impromptu performance, and the teasing from Caitlyn and Vi were all conspiring against him.
“We’re heading out!” Caitlyn suddenly interjected, waking Jayce from his thoughts. Caitlyn leaned heavily against Vi as they giggled like schoolgirls. “The hotel’s a few blocks away. Don’t wait up!”
“Wait—you’re just leaving me here?” Jayce stammered, watching them stumble toward the exit with zero hesitation.
“You’ll be fine!” Vi called over her shoulder, tossing him a lazy salute. “Besides, you’ve got Viktor!”
And just like that, Jayce was alone. Well, not entirely.
Viktor was still there, his ears perked up like he’d been waiting for this exact moment. His golden eyes glinted with amusement as he watched the exchange, his smirk never faltering. Now that they were alone, he stepped closer, his movements graceful, oozing with confident.
“It seems your friends have abandoned you,” Viktor said, his voice smooth as silk, “Whatever will you do now, Jayce?”
Jayce rubbed the back of his neck, suddenly hyperaware of how close Viktor was standing. The faint scent of something smoky and sharp—his cologne, maybe—lingered in the space between them. “Uh… finish my drink, maybe?”
Viktor chuckled, the sound low and deliberate, like it had been crafted to unravel him. “That’s one option,” he said, tilting his head slightly, a knowing glint in his golden eyes. “Although my shift technically ended five minutes after you arrived.”
Jayce blinked, wide-eyed. “Wait—you stayed just to watch me?”
Viktor’s lips curved into a teasing smirk. “Pretty much.”
Jayce felt his face heat up, his words stumbling out before he could think. “I—I wasn’t that entertaining.”
“Oh, I’d disagree,” Viktor replied smoothly, “You have a certain… charm. A bit unpolished, perhaps, but endearing all the same.”
Jayce huffed, crossing his arms defensively. “That sounds suspiciously like an insult.”
Viktor chuckled, his voice lowering. “Not at all. I find it quite refreshing.” He leaned in just slightly, his gaze steady and intent. “You’re the kind of person who doesn’t realize how much attention they attract. It’s fascinating to watch.”
Jayce’s breath hitched under the weight of Viktor’s words, the faint edge of sincerity making his stomach flip. “I—uh…”
Viktor’s smile deepened. He let the pause linger, letting Jayce flounder for a moment before rescuing him. “If you’d like,” Viktor murmured, his voice dipping to a velvet whisper, “I could take you somewhere quieter. Away from all this noise.”
The offer hung in the air between them, heavy with unspoken possibilities. Jayce hesitated, his logical mind battling the undeniable pull of Viktor’s magnetic presence. He should decline. He should walk out the door and meet Caitlyn and Vi at the hotel like a responsible adult.
But then Viktor gave him that look—a subtle, inviting smile paired with the glint of intrigue in his golden eyes. It wasn’t just an invitation; it was a challenge. And Jayce never had been good at backing down from those.
His gaze dashed over to the glowing club lights behind him, the pulsing bass still vibrating faintly under his feet. But when he turned back to Viktor’s calm, waiting expression, the decision made itself. “Lead the way,” he said, his voice steady despite the weight of the words.
A subtle smirk remained on Viktor’s face, but his golden eyes had softened, as though he’d caught on to the hesitation Jayce hadn’t meant to reveal. He leaned in slightly, his voice dipping into something warmer, almost intimate. “I promise,” he murmured, his accented tone laced with quiet conviction, “you won’t regret it.”
The words settled something in Jayce’s chest, though the nervous fluttering didn’t vanish entirely. With a small nod, he followed Viktor, his mind racing faster than his feet.
They wove through the bustling crowd, Viktor guiding him with a confidence that made it clear he knew the place like the back of his hand. ‘Of course he does, he works here,’ Jayce thought, mentally groaning as he ran a hand over his face. Nice one, Talis.
Jayce trailed just behind, the buzz of the club’s energy ebbing with every step, giving way to a quiet that felt charged with anticipation.
Viktor led him to a door tucked discreetly far behind the bar. When he pushed it open, the neon chaos of the club melted away, replaced by a room that exuded quiet opulence. The air here was cooler, tinged with the faint scent of leather and aged wood. Warm light spilled from a crystal chandelier overhead, casting intricate patterns across the walls and the polished mahogany floor.
A deep, velvet-upholstered couch stretched luxuriously along one side of the room, its rich emerald fabric gleaming faintly in the soft glow. A glass-topped table sat at the center, its delicate gold filigree legs curving like the tendrils of a vine. On the far side, a built-in bar was lined with an array of bottles, their contents sparkling like liquid gemstones in the dim light.
The space was quiet, intimate, but charged with an undeniable energy—like a hidden sanctuary meant for whispered secrets and stolen moments.
Jayce hovered near the door, uncertain. He wasn’t sure where to sit—or if he even should. Viktor, however, moved with practiced ease, his steps smooth despite the faint limp that added a subtle rhythm to his stride. He crossed to a small cabinet and retrieved two glasses along with a bottle of something dark and rich, his movements deliberate and unhurried.
“Make yourself comfortable,” Viktor said, his voice casual but edged with a warmth that caught Jayce off guard.
Jayce hesitated, then cautiously sank onto the couch. It was more comfortable than it looked –if that was even possible– and he allowed himself to relax slightly as Viktor poured the drinks.
Viktor handed him a glass, their fingers brushing briefly in a way that made Jayce’s breath hitch. Viktor raised his own glass, a sly grin curving his lips. “To surviving the night.”
Jayce huffed a quiet laugh, the tension in his chest easing just a bit. “Barely,” he echoed from before, clinking his glass against Viktor’s.
They drank in silence for a moment, the warmth of the alcohol spreading through Jayce’s chest like a calming balm. Viktor sat down beside him—closer than Jayce had expected—and set his glass on the table.
“You know,” Viktor began, his voice quieter now, almost thoughtful, “I didn’t expect you to be so… bold.”
Jayce frowned, confused by the comment. “Bold?”
Viktor’s lips twitched into a faint smile, his gaze steady. “Dancing on stage. It’s not something most people would do. Especially someone who claims this isn’t their scene.”
Jayce felt his cheeks warm again, though this time it wasn’t from embarrassment. “It wasn’t my idea,” he admitted, shrugging. “Caitlyn and Vi practically shoved me up there.”
“And yet,” Viktor murmured, leaning in just slightly, “you went along with it. That takes a certain kind of confidence.”
Jayce met Viktor’s gaze, the golden intensity of his eyes locking him in place, making it impossible to look away. “I wouldn’t call it confidence,” Jayce muttered, his voice quieter now. “More like… not wanting to argue with them.”
Viktor chuckled, the sound softer this time, more genuine. “Either way, it was impressive. Entertaining, too.”
Jayce shook his head, but despite himself, a small smile tugged at his lips. “Glad I could amuse you.”
“You did more than that,” Viktor murmured, his voice dipping lower. His gaze flicked briefly to Jayce’s lips, lingering just long enough to send a jolt through Jayce’s body before returning to his eyes.
Jayce blinked, his breath catching as the words registered. “I—uh… did I?”
Viktor leaned back slightly, the motion unhurried, as if he had all the time in the world. Yet his gaze never wavered, holding Jayce in place. “I’ve seen all kinds pass through that club—loud, brash, drunk out of their minds. But you…” His lips curved into a faint, knowing smile. “You’re something else.”
Jayce huffed a quiet laugh, running a hand through his hair. “I don’t know if that’s a compliment or just a polite way of saying I’m awkward.”
“Perhaps a little of both.” Viktor replied with sincerity.
Jayce chuckled despite himself, the tension in his shoulders easing. “Alright, then. What about you? How’d you end up here? I mean…” He gestured vaguely around the room. “You don’t exactly seem like the nightclub type, either.”
Viktor tilted his head, his expression thoughtful. “It’s a fair question,” he admitted after a pause. “And not one I often get.”
Jayce leaned forward slightly, curiosity sparking in his eyes. “So? What’s the story?”
Viktor considered him for a moment, his gaze briefly distant, as if sifting through memories. “I came to Piltover years ago, chasing opportunity. I wanted to study, to build, to create things that mattered. But… life doesn’t always go as planned.”
Jayce nodded slowly, sensing the weight behind Viktor’s words. “So, you ended up here instead.”
“Partially by choice, partially by necessity,” Viktor said, his tone even but not cold. “It’s not all bad. The work is steady, and it gives me time to think. To plan.”
“To plan what?” Jayce asked softly, his voice tinged with genuine curiosity.
Viktor’s faint smile returned, this one more personal. “That,” he said, his voice dropping into a near-whisper, “would be telling.”
Jayce smiled back, warmth spreading through his chest that had little to do with the alcohol. “You’re a hard man to read, Viktor.”
“I’ll take that as a compliment,” Viktor said, his tone light, though his golden eyes gleamed with something deeper. “And you? What do you do, Jayce Talis?”
Jayce hesitated, unsure whether his answer would impress or bore Viktor. “I’m… a student. At Piltover Academy.”
“Ah,” Viktor said, his eyes brightening with recognition. “A man of science, then.”
Jayce blinked. “Wait, how did you—”
“I recognized it,” Viktor interrupted, tapping the side of his head. “The way you talk, the way you carry yourself. That spark of curiosity. I’ve seen it before.”
Jayce felt a grin tugging at his lips, pride and curiosity mingling. “Yeah? Well, I guess I do have a lot of questions.”
“As you should,” Viktor replied smoothly. “It’s a gift to ask questions. And to find answers.”
From there, the conversation unfolded naturally, an easy rhythm settling between them. They traded stories about their lives, their ambitions, and their passions. Viktor spoke with quiet fervor about his love for innovation and his fascination with machines—how they could be used to better the world.
Jayce, in turn, shared his dreams of creating something groundbreaking, something that could truly change lives.
The hours seemed to melt away. It felt like they had known each other far longer than just a few fleeting moments in this hidden room. Without realizing it, Jayce found himself leaning closer, captivated by the warmth in Viktor’s voice and the way his golden eyes seemed to burn brighter when he spoke about the things he loved.
At one point, their hands brushed against each other on the couch—a light, fleeting touch that sent a jolt of exhilaration racing through Jayce. His breath caught, his heart stumbling at the proximity of Viktor’s fingers to his own.
Viktor noticed the touch, too. His gaze flicked downward to their hands, lingering for a moment before lifting back to meet Jayce’s eyes. His expression softened, losing its usual sharpness. For a long moment, neither of them said anything.
Jayce’s skin prickled, warmth spreading despite the cool air in the room. Slowly, almost hesitantly, he reached out, his fingers brushing lightly against Viktor’s again. Their eyes locked to eachother.
Viktor’s lips parted slightly, his breath soft and steady, but he didn’t pull back. Instead, he gravitated in ever so slightly, closing the space between them until their foreheads were almost touching.
“Jayce,” Viktor murmured, his voice so quiet it felt like a secret meant only for him.
Jayce swallowed hard, his pulse hammering in his chest. “Yeah?”
“You’ve been staring” Viktor said, his tone teasing, though his expression was unreadable, almost serious.
Jayce huffed a quiet laugh, his nerves giving way to a flicker of courage he hadn’t known he possessed. “Maybe I’m trying to figure you out.”
Viktor’s smile returned, faint but genuine, “Good luck.”
That was all the encouragement Jayce needed. He leaned in, his lips brushing against Viktor’s in a tentative, searching kiss. The response was immediate—Viktor’s hand slid up to cradle the back of Jayce’s neck, his fingers firm but gentle as he deepened the kiss.
The world outside the room dissolved into nothing. All that remained was the warmth of Viktor’s lips and the quiet hum of something electric between them, sparking with every movement.
Jayce felt Viktor’s fingers threading through the hair at the nape of his neck, the soft tug grounding him in the moment. Their lips moved together, slow at first, as though testing uncharted waters. But the heat between them grew steadily, each touch sending a shiver down Jayce’s spine.
Viktor’s other hand came to rest lightly on Jayce’s chest, his touch steady and unyielding, as if anchoring him in place. Jayce’s hands found Viktor’s waist, his fingers curling into the fabric of Viktor’s shirt as though letting go were unthinkable.
Then Viktor shifted with fluid precision, swinging his good leg carefully over to straddle Jayce’s lap. Jayce’s breath hitched, his hands moving instinctively to Viktor’s hips, steadying him in a way that felt both natural and electrifying.
“Comfortable?” Viktor asked, his voice low, edged with amusement as he settled into Jayce’s lap.
Jayce swallowed hard, his cheeks flushing a deeper shade of pink. “Y-Yeah.”
“Good,” Viktor replied, his smirk returning, sharp and unapologetic. He leaned in again, capturing Jayce’s lips in a kiss that was anything but tentative.
This time, the kiss was deeper, hungrier. Viktor’s fingers tangled in Jayce’s hair, pulling at his brown locks. His hips shifted slightly, the motion drawing a low, unbidden groan from Jayce. Viktor chuckled against his mouth, the sound rich and intimate, stoking the heat already pooling in Jayce’s chest.
“You’re so reactive,” Viktor murmured, his voice like velvet against Jayce’s ear. “I could get used to this.”
Jayce’s grip on Viktor’s hips tightened as he let himself sink into the moment, into the intoxicating pull of Viktor’s lips and the way their bodies seemed to align as if it were second nature.
Viktor pulled back slightly, his lips curving into a smug smile as if he were about to poke fun at Jayce again. Before he could, Jayce surged forward, catching him entirely off guard. With a burst of confidence, he flipped their positions, pinning Viktor beneath him on the couch.
Viktor’s golden eyes widened briefly, disbelief flickering across his sharp features. But the shock quickly melted into something else—something calculated, intrigued, and laced with amusement. “Well, well” he said, his accent curling around the words like a blade’s edge. A faint smirk tugged at his lips. “It seems there’s more to you than ambition and theories.”
Jayce leaned down, his breath warm as it ghosted against Viktor’s ear. “And you talk too much,” he murmured, his voice rougher and lower than he expected, a hint of a challenge woven into his tone.
Viktor chuckled, a quiet sound that felt like it had been meant for himself more than Jayce. His hands slid up to rest against Jayce’s chest, fingers drawing precise, deliberate patterns as if he were sketching a design. “Perhaps,” Viktor said, his voice soft but no less sharp. “But you’re proving to be... unpredictable, Jayce Talis.”
Jayce didn’t bother to reply. Instead, he kissed Viktor again, the intensity building with every subtle shift of their bodies. Viktor’s fingers tightened against his shoulders, gripping as though the closeness still wasn’t enough.
The tension between them crackled like a live wire. Viktor’s usual composure began to fray, his breaths quickening as Jayce’s lips left his mouth to trail open mouth kisses along his jawline and down the elegant column of his throat.
Viktor let out a quiet, unguarded sound, his head tilting back to grant Jayce better access. For a moment, the room felt smaller, the world narrowing to just the two of them, each touch fanning the flames between them.
“Jayce,” Viktor breathed, his voice hitching as Jayce’s teeth grazed the sensitive skin of his neck. “Don’t stop.”
Jayce didn’t plan to.
His confidence grew with every reaction Viktor gave him—the soft, breathless noises, the way his fingers gripped Jayce’s shoulders like he couldn’t bear to let go. For a moment, all of Jayce’s nervousness evaporated, replaced by a singular focus on the man beneath him.
Everything about this was new—the closeness, the warmth of Viktor’s body beneath his, the way their breaths mingled in the dim, intimate light of the room. Jayce had never done this with a man before, but with Viktor, it felt easy. Natural.
Jayce’s hands began to explore, skimming down Viktor’s sides, the fabric of his shirt thin enough to reveal the lean muscle beneath. Viktor arched into his touch, his breath catching as Jayce’s fingers found the hem of his shirt.
Jayce paused, his voice low and husky as he asked, “May I?”
Viktor’s smirk softened, his golden eyes warm as he nodded, lifting his arms to help Jayce pull the shirt over his head. Jayce tossed it aside carelessly, his breath catching as his gaze roamed over Viktor’s pale skin.
Faint scars crisscrossed his chest and stomach, evidence of a life not without hardship. The sight struck something deep within Jayce—admiration, curiosity, and an unexpected tenderness.
“You’re beautiful,” Jayce murmured, the words escaping before he could think to hold them back.
Viktor blinked, his expression momentarily caught off guard. A faint flush crept across his cheeks. “Flattery will get you everywhere.”
Jayce grinned, leaning down to press a kiss to Viktor’s collarbone. He let his lips trail lower, tracing the faint lines of Viktor’s scars with reverence, as though each mark carried a story he longed to uncover.
He continued his descent, his kisses slow and deliberate, mapping Viktor’s chest and the pale expanse of his skin with care. Jayce’s hand came up to squeeze one of Viktor’s nipples before sucking it and lightly nibbling at the perky bud, eliciting a low moan from the man beneath him.
Jayce paused when he reached the edge of Viktor’s waistband, glancing up to meet his gaze. Those golden eyes, half-lidded and full of unspoken promise, held him captive. Even so, Jayce asked softly, “Is this okay?”
Viktor’s lips curved into a tender smile, “More than okay.”
With that, Jayce hooked his fingers into the waistband of Viktor’s pants and tugged them down, his breath catching as Viktor’s arousal was revealed. It was intimidating, but not enough to stop him. If anything, it only made him more determined.
He leaned in, pressing a kiss to Viktor’s hip before taking him in hand, earning a sharp inhale from Viktor. Jayce hesitated for only a moment before lowering his head, his lips parting as he took Viktor into his mouth.
The reaction was immediate. Viktor’s head fell back against the couch, a low groan escaping his lips as his fingers pulled at Jayce’s hair again. “Jayce,” he breathed, his voice unsteady.
Encouraged, Jayce began bobbing his head slowly, testing his limits as he adjusted to the unfamiliar sensation. Viktor’s responses were addictive—the quiet curses, the way his thighs tensed beneath Jayce’s hands, the way he murmured Jayce’s name like it was the only word he knew.
Jayce hummed around him, the vibration drawing a sharp gasp from Viktor. He looked up, meeting Viktor’s gaze, and the sight of him—flushed, unraveled, golden eyes hazy with pleasure—sent a bolt of electricity straight to Jayce’s now too tight pants.
He quickened his pace, his hands steady on Viktor’s hips as he worked him with a mix of instinct and attentiveness. Viktor’s breaths came faster, his grip tightening in Jayce’s hair as his body tensed.
“Jayce,” Viktor gasped, his voice low and raw. “Stop, or this will end too quickly.”
Jayce pulled back slowly, his lips completely red and swollen, leaving a trail of spit glistening downwards. His eyes alight with a mix of pride and desire, a truly scandalous site.
“I didn’t know you could get flustered,” Jayce teased, his voice rough from exertion.
Viktor laughed breathlessly, pulling Jayce up for a searing kiss, involuntarily tasting part of himself in the process. “I think you enjoy testing my composure.”
Jayce grinned against his lips, his hands roaming over Viktor’s body. “Maybe.”
Viktor's fingers trailed down Jayce's chest, deftly unbuttoning his shirt. "Your turn," he exhaled, pushing the fabric off Jayce's shoulders.
Jayce shivered as Viktor's hands explored his newly exposed skin, sending sparks through Jayce's body. He leaned down to capture Viktor's lips again, groaning softly as their bare chests pressed together.
Viktor's hands slid lower, fingers hooking in the waistband of Jayce's pants. "May I?" he asked, echoing Jayce's earlier question with a smirk.
Jayce nodded, his breath catching as Viktor’s nimble fingers undid his pants with practiced ease, pushing them down in one fluid motion. Viktor’s golden eyes roamed over Jayce’s form, drinking him in. His gaze landed on Jayce's arousal, and a slow smile spread across his face.
"My, my," Viktor purred, his voice low and sultry. "It seems the scientist is well-equipped in more ways than one."
He reached out, trailing his fingers along Jayce's length. Jayce shivered at the touch, his breath catching.
"Impressive," Viktor murmured. "Both in size and... aesthetic appeal."
Jayce flushed at the compliment, a mix of pride and embarrassment coursing through him. Viktor's skilled fingers continued their exploration, drawing soft gasps from Jayce.
After a moment, Viktor shifted, reaching for his discarded pants. He rummaged through a pocket and pulled out a small bottle, holding it up with a faint, knowing smirk.
Jayce’s eyebrows shot up, realization dawning. “Wait—you’ve been carrying that around all night?”
Viktor chuckled, the sound low and deliberate, his golden eyes glinting with amusement. “Let’s just say I like to be prepared,” he said, his tone smooth and teasing. Then, with a playful edge, he added, “Besides, after seeing you on that stage, I figured it might come in handy.”
Heat flared in Jayce’s cheeks, and he let out a half-laugh, half-sigh. “So, this was all part of some grand plan, huh?”
Viktor’s smirk widened ever so slightly. “I prefer to call it foresight,” he said smoothly, pressing the bottle into Jayce’s hand with a deliberate motion. His gaze met Jayce’s, unwavering. “Now, impress me again, Mr. Talis. I’m curious to see what else you’re capable of.”
Jayce’s breath felt heavy as he uncapped the bottle, his hands trembling slightly with anticipation. He tipped the bottle carefully, letting the slick liquid pool onto his calloused fingers—marked by years at the forge—before warming it between his palms.
“Have you done this before?” Viktor asked softly, his voice dipping into something quieter, more intimate. His golden eyes searched Jayce’s face, not for judgment but for honesty.
Jayce hesitated, his gaze flickering downward before returning to Viktor’s. “Not… not with a man,” he admitted, his voice low and uncertain.
Viktor’s expression softened, the sharp edges of his usual demeanor giving way to something warmer, almost tender. He reached up, his hand cradling Jayce’s cheek with utmost care. “Then we take our time,” he murmured, his tone steady, a quiet promise threaded through the words. “There’s no need to rush.”
Jayce leaned into Viktor’s touch, his chest tightening with a wave of unexpected affection. The man beneath him—so composed, so enigmatic—was offering him patience. Trust. It was enough to steady him. Jayce nodded, his breath evening out as he prepared to move forward, a quiet sense of certainty settling over him.
With careful movements, Jayce reached down between them. He circled Viktor's entrance with slick fingers, marveling at the soft gasp it drew from the other man. He pressed one finger in gently, watching Viktor's face for any signs of discomfort as he slowly worked in and out of him.
Viktor's eyes fluttered closed, his breath catching. "Good," he murmured encouragingly. "Keep going."
Emboldened, Jayce continued his careful exploration, adding a second digit when Viktor nodded his assent. He curled his fingers experimentally, searching for that spot he'd heard about but never experienced firsthand. A fleeting thought crossed his mind—maybe, someday, he’d have to know what it felt like on the receiving end.
The sharp intake of Viktor’s breath and the sudden arch of his body pulled Jayce from his musings. He’d found it. A thrill of excitement surged through him, spurring him on with renewed focus.
"There," Viktor gasped, his composure slipping. "Right there, Jayce."
Jayce repeated the motion, drinking in the sight of Viktor coming undone.
Jayce continued his careful ministrations, watching in awe as Viktor's usual composure crumbled under his touch. Viktor's breath came in short gasps, his nails clawing into Jayce's shoulders as pleasure coursed through him.
“Jayce,” Viktor murmured, his voice low and uneven, a rare crack in his usual control. “I’m ready.” A pause, then softer, almost pleading, “Please.”
The rawness in Viktor’s tone sent a shiver down Jayce’s spine, leaving him momentarily breathless. He withdrew his fingers carefully, Viktor’s soft gasp at the loss making his pulse quicken. With hands that trembled only slightly, Jayce reached for the bottle of lubricant, pouring out a hefty amount to coat himself with.
“Are you sure?” Jayce asked, his voice quieter now, as he positioned himself, his eyes searching Viktor’s face for any sign of doubt.
Viktor’s golden eyes opened, locking onto Jayce’s with an intensity that cut through the moment’s hesitation. “Yes,” Viktor said, the word firm, steady. “I want this. I want you, Jayce.”
Those words were more than enough affirmation for Jayce as he lined himself up, pressing forward slowly and carefully. Both men gasped as Jayce entered Viktor, the sensation overwhelming.
"Oh," Jayce breathed, his eyes fluttering closed as he slowly sank into Viktor's tight heat. The feeling unlike anything he'd ever experienced before.
Viktor's fingers dug into Jayce's shoulders, his breath coming in short gasps.“Jayce,” he murmured, his voice frayed at the edges, a mix of strain and undeniable pleasure. “You feel... unbelievable.”
Jayce opened his eyes, meeting Viktor's intense golden gaze. The vulnerability he saw there, mixed with raw desire, made his heart skip a beat. He leaned down, capturing Viktor's lips in a deep, passionate kiss as he bottomed out.
They stayed like that for a moment, bodies joined in quiet intimacy, their lips meeting in slow, deliberate movements as they both adjusted to each other. Viktor’s legs shifted, carefully wrapping around Jayce’s waist, drawing him impossibly closer. A soft grunt escaped Viktor as his leg adjusted awkwardly to the position.
Jayce immediately stilled, his brow knitting as he caught the flicker of discomfort in Viktor’s expression. “Are you okay?” he asked softly, his voice laced with concern.
Viktor’s lips curved faintly, the ghost of a smirk tugging at the corners. “Jayce,” he murmured, his voice low and steady, “if I couldn’t handle this, you’d already know.” His golden eyes locked onto Jayce’s, glinting with both resolve and a spark of challenge. “Now, move.”
Jayce nodded, his heart pounding as he began to move, starting with slow, deliberate thrusts, each one meant to savor the way Viktor felt around him. But the sound of Viktor’s breathy moans—soft and unguarded—ignited something deeper in him. The restraint slipped away, his movements growing stronger, more demanding, as he lost himself within the man under him.
Viktor met Jayce’s rhythm, his hips moving in perfect harmony as their bodies worked together seamlessly. Their lips collided in a desperate, heated kiss, tongues tangling in a battle neither truly wanted to win. Every movement felt electric, an unspoken urgency driving them closer to the peak that always seemed just out of reach.
Jayce’s hands roamed Viktor’s body, memorizing every curve, every ridge of muscle, as if committing him to memory. Viktor’s fingers dug into Jayce’s shoulders, his back arching with a soft gasp, urging Jayce to give more.
The air around them grew heavy, thick with the sounds of their passion—the slick glide of skin, breathless moans, and the wet, hungry noises of their kisses. Each sound, each touch, built upon the last, driving them higher until nothing else existed but the two of them.
Jayce’s breath quickened, his movements growing erratic as he teetered on the edge. Viktor’s eyes, usually so sharp and calculating, were clouded with pleasure, his lips parted as he whispered Jayce’s name like a mantra. With one final, deep thrust, Jayce felt his control shatter, a hoarse cry escaping his lips as he spilled into Viktor, his body trembling from the force of his release.
Viktor followed moments later, his hands tightening on Jayce’s shoulders as his own climax overtook him, a breathless gasp tearing from his throat. Their bodies trembled together, riding out the waves of shared ecstasy.
For a long moment, neither moved. Their hearts beat in unison, their breaths mingling in the heavy, intimate stillness. Jayce’s mind raced, struggling to process it all—the rawness of the moment, the overwhelming connection, the intensity of emotions still coursing through him like a live wire.
Viktor’s hand moved gently against his back, slow and soothing, the touch grounding Jayce amidst the whirlwind in his chest. The gesture, small but deliberate, sent a quiet warmth through him. Finally, Jayce lifted his head, his gaze searching Viktor’s face.
He expected the usual smirk, the teasing glint in those golden eyes that always seemed to challenge him. But what he found was something entirely different—softer, unguarded, and achingly sincere. Viktor’s expression was open, his gaze filled with a warmth that seemed to reach straight into Jayce’s soul.
"Wow," Jayce breathed, his voice rough with a mix of wonder and disbelief.
Viktor chuckled softly, his hand still tracing lazy patterns on Jayce’s back. “That’s one way to put it.”
Jayce shook his head, a small, almost bashful smile tugging at his lips. “I meant—I didn’t expect…” He trailed off, struggling to give voice to the jumble of thoughts crowding his mind.
Viktor’s smile widened, amusement glimmering faintly in his eyes. “That you’d enjoy it so much?”
Jayce’s cheeks flushed, but he nodded, the admission sitting comfortably between them. “I guess I did.”
Viktor’s expression softened further, his thumb brushing absently against Jayce’s skin. “I’m glad,” he murmured, his tone quieter now. “It’s been a long time since I felt this way.”
Jayce’s heart skipped a beat, the weight of Viktor’s words settling over him. “Really?” he asked, his voice barely above a whisper.
Viktor nodded, his gaze steady, almost vulnerable. “Really.”
They stayed like that for a while, basking in the quiet afterglow, the air between them thick with unspoken understanding. Viktor’s breathing slowed, matching the steady rhythm of Jayce’s heart as their bodies remained intertwined. But eventually, reality began to creep back in.
Reluctantly, Jayce shifted away, his touch lingering on Viktor’s skin for a moment before he stood. He glanced around, spotting a discarded cloth nearby. Grabbing it, he returned to Viktor’s side, his movements careful and deliberate as he cleaned him up with a tenderness that made Viktor’s chest tighten.
“You don’t need to do that,” Viktor murmured, his voice soft but laced with warmth. His golden eyes met Jayce’s, and there was a flicker of something unguarded—gratitude, perhaps, or affection.
Jayce gave a small, lopsided smile as he finished, his fingers brushing Viktor’s thigh lightly. “I know,” he said, his voice low, almost shy. “But I want to.”
Viktor sat up slowly, his movements precise despite the pleasant ache that lingered. The sated smile playing on his lips hinted at his reluctance to let the moment end, even as he reached for his discarded clothing. “You continue to surprise me, Jayce Talis,” Viktor said, the faintest trace of amusement threading through his words.
As Jayce pulled on his clothes, he couldn’t shake the feeling that something profound had shifted between them. It wasn’t just the physical connection they’d shared—it was something deeper, a spark that had rooted itself in his chest and refused to be ignored.
He glanced toward Viktor, who was watching him with a knowing smile that sent heat rushing to his cheeks.
“What?” Jayce asked, feeling suddenly self-conscious.
Viktor’s smile widened, his golden eyes sparkling with gentle amusement. “You really are adorable when you blush.”
Jayce rolled his eyes, but the faint skip of his heart betrayed the casual gesture. He cleared his throat, hoping to steady himself, though the fluttering in his chest refused to be ignored.
“You know,” he began, his tone light but sincere, “this week was shaping up to be one of the worst I’ve had in years. Everything that could go wrong did. And then Caitlyn and Vi dragged me out to this club…”
“And now?” Viktor prompted, raising an eyebrow.
Jayce shrugged, his smile growing. “Now it doesn’t seem so bad. Actually, it turned out pretty great.”
Viktor chuckled softly, leaning up just enough to press a kiss to Jayce’s jaw. “I’m glad I could be of service.”
Jayce rolled his eyes again, though his grin didn’t waver. “You’re impossible, you know that?”
“I’ve been told,” Viktor replied, his smirk returning in full force.
Reaching out, Jayce brushed a strand of hair from Viktor’s face, his fingers lingering as if reluctant to pull away. “So… what happens now?” he asked, his voice softer than he intended.
Viktor tilted his head slightly, studying him for a moment before answering. “Now, we see where this goes. That is, if you’re willing to find out.”
Jayce’s chest tightened with a mix of apprehension and hope, the weight of the moment settling over him. “Of course,” he said finally, his voice steady and firm despite the swirling emotions threatening to spill over.
“Good,” Viktor said simply, satisfaction flickering in his tone. “Then I suppose you’ll just have to come back and find me.”
Jayce laughed, the sound bright and unguarded. “Oh, I will. Don’t think you’re getting rid of me that easily.”
“I wouldn’t dream of it,” Viktor replied, his voice softer now.
Jayce glanced at the clock and sighed, the early morning hours glaring back at him like an unwelcome reminder.“I should probably get going. Caitlyn and Vi are probably wondering where I am.”
Viktor’s smile softened, and he nodded. “Of course. I’ll walk you out.”
They moved through the club together, the music and lights fading into the background. As they reached the door, Viktor’s hand brushed against Jayce’s, their fingers briefly intertwining. Jayce glanced at him, catching the quiet promise in Viktor’s gaze—a promise of something more, something lasting.
At the door, Jayce paused, emotions churning in his chest—tangled, raw, and impossible to ignore. He looked at Viktor, his voice quiet but laden with meaning. “Thank you,” he said, the words simple but thick with gratitude.
Viktor’s eyes softened, and he leaned in, pressing a gentle, lingering kiss to Jayce’s lips. “You don’t need to thank me,” he murmured, his voice low and firm. “Just don’t make me wait too long to see you again.”
A small, genuine smile spread across Jayce’s face, his heart feeling lighter than it had in weeks. The disasters and chaos of the past days faded into insignificance. They had led him here—to Viktor. And as Jayce stepped out into the cool night air, he realized something he hadn’t felt in a long time: hope. The kind of hope that didn’t just mend the broken pieces of his week, but pieced together something entirely new, something worth holding onto.
And for the first time in what felt like forever, Jayce knew everything was exactly as it should be.