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Behind Closed Doors

© Cederwyn Whitefurr

23rd October, 2024

All Rights Reserved.

AUTHORS NOTES: The idea for the start of this story came from a Telegram Writers group friend, thank you, for giving me the kickstart I needed :)

Cecil grumbled to himself as he strode down the hotel hallway; his employer had covered the cost since it was a business trip, but the fact that it didn't have any room service meant that the young white tail had to drive out somewhere to get something to eat and the thought irked him.

His grumbling got worse as he dwelt on the fact that his room was furthest from the elevator, passing by door after door after door of people who were probably doing anything better than heading back out so late at night. The young buck was almost to the elevator when he heard the sound of a shower coming from room 214.

He had noticed that room specifically when he was on his way to his room; the occupant, a tall, broad-shouldered red deer was just letting himself in. Their eyes met for a moment. It was nice.

Cecil was thinking of cranking one out later with that handsome buck's features in his mind... after he went out to get food. He hadn't realized he'd stopped outside of 214 until the door creaked open and the Red Deer appeared in nothing but a towel.

The taller, broader, older cervid stood there dressed in nothing else but his smile, looking Cecil up and down. "Window shopping, or looking to buy?"

The young buck did a double-take. It was humour; he was sure of that, but did it imply what he thought it did. "Excuse me?"

The red deer stepped out into the hall, gently gripping Cecil's tie which he still hadn't taken off.

"You're excused... though I won't mind one bit if you'd like to say you're sorry in a more... personal way."

Cecil stammered out his response after he noticed a wedding band on the red deer's finger. "Y-you're married." The stranger let go of his tie.

"Well... she's not here, and you are... besides, I hate showering alone. " The Red Deer turned around, heading back into his room... and he no longer bothered holding the towel up. "So.. was that a 'no'?"

Cecil's heart raced as he stood frozen in the hallway, eyes fixed on the red deer’s retreating figure. His mind whirled with conflicting emotions—desire, disbelief, and a pang of guilt all tangled together. The easy confidence of the red deer, the way his towel dropped without hesitation, left Cecil breathless, unsure of how to respond.

It wasn’t every day that a business trip took such an unexpected turn, and the young whitetail knew he could walk away. Yet the invitation lingered in the air, tugging at something deep inside him, something that had been starved for attention. The red deer's broad back, muscles flexing as he casually strolled back into the room, pulled Cecil's gaze like a magnet.

He could feel the heat creeping up his neck, his hand reflexively adjusting the tie the red deer had so brazenly grabbed moments before. Cecil’s rational side reminded him of the consequences—this was risky, and impulsive, and he barely knew the guy. Then again, the gleam in the older buck’s eyes, that cocky smile… it promised something more.

Before he could think better of it, his feet were moving, carrying him toward the slightly ajar door of 214.

Cecil hesitated at the doorway, his heart thudding so loudly he was certain the red deer could hear it from inside. The older buck had left the door open just enough to be an invitation, though nothing more than a sliver of light peeked through. Taking a deep breath, Cecil nudged the door wider and stepped in.

The room was bathed in the soft glow of a single lamp, casting shadows that danced along the walls. The air was thick with the scent of cedar and something faintly sweet, perhaps cologne. Cecil glanced around, spotting the red deer lounging on the bed, one arm propped behind his head, his legs spread comfortably apart. The towel was discarded carelessly on the floor. He looked even more impressive now, his broad chest rising and falling with slow, relaxed breaths, a smug grin playing on his lips.

Cecil swallowed hard, his nerves fraying even as desire pooled low in his belly. The red deer’s gaze traced every inch of him as if he were a prize to be savoured. “Changed your mind, I see,” the older buck said, his deep voice rich with satisfaction.

“I—uh…” Cecil’s voice faltered, words failing him under the intensity of the red deer’s stare. The older buck chuckled, patting the bed beside him.

“Relax, kid. You look like you’re about to jump out of your skin. Come sit.”

Cecil’s legs moved of their own accord, drawn to the easy confidence radiating from the red deer. He perched cautiously on the edge of the bed, his pulse hammering in his ears. His tie felt constricting now, and as if sensing his discomfort, the red deer reached over, deft fingers tugging it loose.

“That’s better,” the red deer said, tossing the tie aside. He sat up, leaning in closer, and Cecil could feel the warmth of his breath on his neck. “You look like you could use a little… stress relief.”

Cecil shivered as the red deer’s hand traced a slow line down his chest, his touch firm yet gentle.

Every nerve in Cecil’s body screamed for more, but his mind still clung to the thought of the wedding band he’d glimpsed earlier. “What about your wife?” he asked, his voice barely a whisper.

The red deer chuckled again, low and throaty, his hand pausing just above Cecil’s belt. “Like I said… she’s not here. And we have an understanding. As long as she doesn’t know, and I don’t make it messy… well, what she doesn’t know won’t hurt her.”

Cecil’s breath hitched as the red deer’s hand resumed its path, teasing at the edge of his belt. His words should have made Cecil pull back, should have sent him bolting from the room, but instead, they only fanned the flames of his desire. There was a thrill in the secrecy, in the danger of it all.

“And you… you don’t mind?” Cecil asked, his voice shaky as he leaned into the red deer’s touch.

The red deer grinned, his eyes dark with intent. “I don’t mind one bit.” He leaned in closer, his lips brushing Cecil’s ear as he whispered, “Now… are you going to stay, or should I shut the door?”

Cecil’s breath caught in his throat, the heat of the red deer’s words sending a jolt through his body. His hesitation hung in the air for just a moment longer before the pull of desire outweighed any lingering doubts. Slowly, he turned his head to meet the red deer’s gaze, their faces inches apart now. The older buck’s expression was calm and confident—like he already knew the answer.

Cecil’s voice was barely above a whisper. “I’m staying.”

The red deer smiled a slow, satisfied grin. He gently pulled Cecil closer, their lips brushing together in a tentative kiss that quickly deepened as the tension melted away. The young buck’s nerves gave way to a flood of sensation—the warmth of the red deer’s body, the firm grip of his hands roaming along Cecil’s back, pulling him in tighter. The world outside that hotel room faded, leaving only the two of them, the soft creak of the bed beneath them, and the low hum of their breaths mingling in the dimly lit room.

Cecil let himself sink into the moment, his fingers exploring the red deer’s chest, feeling the hard planes of muscle beneath his skin. The older buck’s hands moved with practised ease, unbuckling Cecil’s belt and sliding his pants down with a single, fluid motion. His touch was both commanding and gentle, guiding Cecil onto the bed with a firm but careful push.

The red deer hovered above him now, his eyes gleaming in the soft light. “You sure about this?” he asked, his voice husky but laced with a surprising note of tenderness. Cecil nodded, breathless and eager, his heart pounding with anticipation.

“Good,” the red deer murmured, lowering himself until their bodies were pressed together, heat and friction building between them. His hands wandered lower, fingers tracing a path down Cecil’s sides before settling on his hips, guiding the young buck into a rhythm that sent waves of pleasure surging through him.

Cecil’s head spun, his senses overwhelmed by the intoxicating blend of desire and release. The red deer moved with expert precision, his touch lighting a fire that consumed every last bit of Cecil’s restraint. Their movements became more urgent, more frenzied, as they both gave in fully to the moment.

Just as Cecil felt himself teetering on the edge of oblivion, the red deer slowed, pulling back slightly. His eyes locked onto Cecil’s, a sly grin curving his lips. “I told you I hate showering alone,” he whispered. Then, with a fluid grace, he rose from the bed, holding out a hand. “Shall we?”

Cecil, breathless and dazed, accepted the offer. Together, they made their way to the bathroom, steam still swirling in the air from the red deer’s earlier shower. The scent of cedar was stronger here, mingling with the heat of the water as the red deer turned on the shower again.

Cecil stood at the edge of the bathroom, the steam thickening the air between them, blurring the lines between them. The sound of the running water was rhythmic, like a heartbeat, urging them closer.

The red deer shed the robe he wore, then stepped into the cascading water first, turning slightly, allowing the droplets to slide over his muscular frame. He glanced over his shoulder at Cecil, raising an eyebrow, before he tilted his muzzle up into the torrent, squeezing his eyes closed.

Nervously, Cecil disrobed, his quivering fingers pulling at his tie, then unbuttoning his shirt. Carefully, he slipped out of both, placing them on the closed toilet seat as he unbuckled his belt and pulled it through the trouser loops.

What am I doing, Cecil thought to himself, a nervous tremble rippling through his body. You don't know this buck, yet...

The red deer extended his wet hand, beckoning Cecil with a smile that carried both promise and invitation. Cecil hesitated for only a moment before he slipped his trousers down his furred thighs and then the silk boxer shorts followed.

“I don't bite,” the larger deer's smile was gentle and warm, his fingers waggling invitingly.

Cecil hesitated again, before he swallowed the apple-like lump in his throat, before he timidly placed his hand in that of the dominant buck, who helped him into the shower. As the warmth of the shower enveloped him in a comforting embrace, he sighed and tried to relax his taut muscles.

The water mingled with the cedar scent of the body wash, the heat loosening every tense muscle in his body, making him acutely aware of just how close the red deer was to his much smaller, whitetail body. His skin prickled with anticipation as the red deer closed the small distance between them, his hands finding Cecil's hips, pulling him gently under the spray.

Cecil's heart raced, the flutter of excitement battling with his nerves. “I—I just met you,” he stammered, but the way the red deer's fingers danced over his hips made him forget his hesitation.

“True,” the red deer replied, a playful glint in his eyes. “But I can promise you this: I'm not just a pretty face.” He leaned in, lips grazing Cecil's neck, eliciting a soft gasp from the younger buck. The sound hung in the air, thick with promise, their breaths mingling in the steam that surrounded them.

“Better now?” the red deer murmured, his breath warm against Cecil's ear. He traced his fingers along Cecil's side, slow, deliberate, testing the reaction his touch brought. Cecil's breath hitched, his senses heightened by the closeness, the way the red deer's tender caresses felt. It was confident but never rushed, each movement filled with intent, drawing out the anticipation that lingered in the air.

Cecil's heart raced, his hands instinctively reaching up to find the red deer's chest, the sensation of wet, smooth fur beneath his hooflets grounding him even as the heat of both the water and between them intensified. The water slid between their bodies, heightening every sensation as they pressed closer, their movements unhurried but full of promise.

The red deer's hands moved lower, his fingers exploring the curve of Cecil's back, the sensation both electrifying and intense. His lips grazed Cecil's neck, leaving a trail of warmth that contrasted with the cool air outside the shower. Cecil closed his eyes, leaning into the touch, surrendering to the moment as the red deer's hands roamed freely, mapping every inch of his body.

“Relax,” the red deer whispered, his voice soothing yet commanding, sending a shiver down Cecil's spine. He followed the command without thinking, letting go of the tension that had built up within him, trusting the larger deer to guide him through the intimate dance they had begun.

Each touch, each press of their bodies together was a silent conversation, unspoken but deeply understood. The red deer's fingers traced the contours of Cecil's muscles, his touch alternating between firm and tender, building a crescendo that left Cecil breathless and wanting, his arousal slipping from his sheath and being gently pressed against that of the larger, more dominant buck.

The red deer's movements became slower, more deliberate, as though savouring every reaction, every soft gasp and moan that escaped Cecil's lips. The closeness between them was overwhelming, but it wasn't just physical. There was something profound, a connection that transcended the surface, something that Cecil couldn't name, but they both felt.

“Do you trust me?” the red deer asked, his breath warm against Cecil’s ear.

The intensity in his gaze made Cecil’s stomach flutter. He nodded, swallowing hard, the lump in his throat a mix of nerves and eagerness. The red deer’s lips brushed against his neck, teasing, making him gasp softly as he leaned back, allowing the water to cascade over him.

With a teasing smile, the red deer captured Cecil’s mouth, their lips meeting in a passionate kiss. The world outside faded away, leaving only the sound of water and the sensation of their bodies pressed together. The kiss deepened, filled with a hunger that ignited every nerve ending. Cecil’s hands found their way to the red deer’s chest, fingers sinking into his thick fur, grounding him as waves of desire washed over him.

The red deer’s hands moved lower, caressing the curve of Cecil’s backside, pulling him closer until their arousal pressed together, slick and eager. The sensation was intoxicating, a rush of heat that made Cecil gasp, his breath hitching in his throat.

“Let me in, Cecil,” the red deer whispered, his voice thick with desire, and as their eyes locked, an unspoken agreement passed between them.

Cecil nodded, feeling a rush of trust and longing. With careful precision, the red deer guided Cecil under the spray, turning him so that the warm water flowed over their bodies. As he positioned himself behind Cecil, the larger buck leaned down, capturing his lips in another searing kiss, hands gliding down to caress Cecil’s thighs.

With a slow, deliberate movement, the red deer pressed against Cecil, aligning their bodies as he nudged gently at the entrance of Cecil’s heat. The pressure was both thrilling and overwhelming, sending a bolt of electricity through them.

“Breathe,” the red deer instructed, and Cecil complied, exhaling slowly as the larger buck eased into him, filling him with a warmth that spread from his core to the tips of his hooves.

Cecil moaned, a sound of pure bliss as the red deer pushed deeper, their bodies melding together under the rhythm of the shower. Each thrust was met with a rush of water and heat, the connection between them deepening with every movement.

The world outside faded entirely, leaving only the two of them, lost in their own rhythm, breaths mingling in a heated dance.

“Just like that,” the red deer coaxed, his voice a low rumble that vibrated through Cecil’s very being.

Each thrust sent waves of pleasure radiating through him, building in intensity, drawing out gasps and moans that echoed against the shower walls. The water cascaded around them, adding a slickness to their movements that made every sensation feel heightened. Cecil’s hands grasped the slick tiles for support as the red deer found a rhythm, each push and pull sending shivers of delight coursing through him.

The sensation of being filled, of their bodies joining in such an intimate act, made him dizzy with pleasure.

“You feel amazing,” the red deer praised, his tone thick with desire, his hands gripping Cecil’s hips to guide him closer.

As they moved together, the connection between them grew deeper, transcending mere physical pleasure. Every thrust was a promise, every sigh a shared secret. The world beyond the bathroom faded, and all that remained was the intoxicating heat of their bodies and the crescendo of their desires building to a peak.

“Cecil,” the red deer murmured, his voice raw with longing, “let go with me.”

As their bodies surged together, the pressure inside Cecil reached a tipping point, and he surrendered fully to the pleasure, lost in the moment, feeling the heat of the red deer spill into him, their connection solidified in waves of bliss.

As the water continued to flow around them, they remained locked together, two souls entwined in a moment of pure ecstasy, the world outside forgotten as they embraced their desires and the profound bond that had formed in the steamy embrace of the shower. Under the cascade of hot water, their bodies came together once more, the heat between them intensifying as the water sluiced over their skin. The red deer’s hands were everywhere—stroking, teasing, pulling Cecil deeper into a haze of pleasure. Cecil lost himself in the sensation, the warmth of the water mixing with the warmth of the red deer’s body, his mind blissfully free of any lingering doubts or worries.

Under the cascade of hot water, their bodies came together once more, the heat between them intensifying as the water sluiced over their skin. The red deer’s hands were everywhere—stroking, teasing, pulling Cecil deeper into a haze of pleasure. Cecil lost himself in the sensation, the warmth of the water mixing with the warmth of the red deer’s body, his mind blissfully free of any lingering doubts or worries.

In that moment, it was just the two of them—no business trip, no wedding ring, no thoughts of the world outside. Just heat, water, and the undeniable pull of desire that had brought them together.

The hot water pounded against Cecil's back, steam rising around them like a shroud, cocooning them in their own world. The red deer pressed him against the cool tile wall, his hands firm but gentle, tracing every inch of his body with practised ease. Cecil’s breath hitched, the warmth of the water mixing with the intoxicating heat of the red deer’s touch.

Their lips met again, hungrier this time, as the older buck took full control. Cecil couldn’t help but moan into the kiss, the sound swallowed by the shower’s roar. The red deer’s hands explored lower, gripping his hips and lifting him slightly against the wall. Cecil gasped as he felt the strong, commanding presence of the red deer against him, their bodies moving together in perfect sync.

Cecil’s mind was a blur of sensations—every nerve in his body was alight, the warmth of the water only intensifying the need building inside him. He gripped the red deer’s shoulders tightly, his fingers digging into the firm muscles beneath his hands, desperate for more.

“You’re beautiful like this,” the red deer murmured against his ear, his voice low and rough with desire. “I’ve had my eye on you since I saw you in the hallway.” His words sent a shiver down Cecil’s spine, the idea of being wanted, craved like this, fanning the flames of his already burning need.

The red deer’s lips travelled down Cecil’s neck, his breath hot against the skin as he kissed, nipped, and teased, driving the young buck wild with desire. The shower’s steam wrapped around them, the heat between their bodies almost unbearable, but neither of them cared. All that mattered was the moment—the intense, almost primal connection between them.

Cecil’s pulse pounded in his ears, his body moving of its own accord as he arched into the red deer’s touch. He was lost, completely at the mercy of the older buck’s expertise, and he loved it. The red deer’s hands gripped him tighter, his movements becoming more insistent, more urgent.

The tension between them built higher and higher, the rhythm of their bodies quickening as they reached the peak of their shared desire. The red deer’s voice, rough and breathless, murmured in his ear, urging him on, guiding him to the edge. And then, with a final gasp, they both found release, the intensity of the moment crashing over them like a wave, drowning them in pleasure.

For a few moments, all was silent except for the sound of their ragged breathing and the steady stream of the shower. Cecil slumped against the wall, his body spent, the water still cascading over him as the red deer pressed a final, lingering kiss to his shoulder.

When he finally pulled away, the red deer gave him a satisfied smile, his eyes gleaming with that same confident, easy charm. “That was worth coming back for, wasn’t it?”

Cecil, still breathless and dazed, could only nod, a lazy grin tugging at the corners of his mouth. The red deer chuckled, turning off the water and grabbing a fresh towel from the rack, draping it around Cecil’s shoulders before wrapping one around his waist.

“Guess you won’t be needing that late-night snack anymore,” the red deer teased, giving Cecil a playful nudge as they stepped out of the bathroom.

Cecil laughed, the sound light and carefree. “No… I think I’m good,” he admitted, his earlier frustration completely forgotten, replaced with the warm, satisfied glow of their time together.

The red deer tossed his towel aside, stretching lazily as he climbed back onto the bed. “Well, if you change your mind about anything else… you know where to find me.”

Cecil grabbed his pants, pulling them on and casting a glance back at the red deer, who was watching him with that same teasing grin. His chest tightened slightly, knowing this was likely a one-time encounter, a fleeting moment in a strange city. But in that moment, he didn’t care. It was what he needed, and for now, it was enough.

He buttoned his shirt, his body still humming with the memory of the red deer’s touch. As he reached for his tie, the red deer called out one last time. “Hey—no need to rush off so soon, unless you’ve got somewhere to be.”

Cecil smirked, shaking his head as he looked back. “Maybe next time,” he said, his voice playful. “But for now… I think I’ll leave you with the memory.”

The red deer chuckled, reclining back onto the bed. “Suit yourself, kid. I’ll be here.”

Cecil gave a nod before slipping out the door, his heart still racing, his body still warm. He walked down the hotel hallway, a satisfied smile tugging at his lips, the night taking a much more interesting turn than he’d ever expected.

Cecil stepped into the hallway, the cool air rushing over him as he closed the door to room 214 behind him. His body still buzzed with the heat of the encounter, but as he walked back toward his own room, reality began to settle in. The thrill of what had just happened lingered, but so did a subtle weight pressing at the edges of his thoughts—guilt, confusion, and a strange sense of detachment.

He reached his room, fumbling for the keycard in his pocket as the events of the night replayed in his mind. The red deer’s confident smile, the way he took control so effortlessly, the wedding band Cecil had tried to ignore. Cecil paused, staring down at the keycard in his hand, his chest tightening with an uncomfortable mixture of satisfaction and doubt.

Sliding the card into the lock, he pushed open the door to his empty hotel room. The bed was still perfectly made, untouched since he’d first checked in, and the air inside felt strangely sterile compared to the charged atmosphere of room 214. He tossed his tie onto the chair and sat on the edge of the bed, running a hand through his hair.

What had he done?

He couldn’t help but think about the red deer’s wife, the casual way the older buck had dismissed her absence as though it didn’t matter. Cecil had never been one to judge—he wasn’t exactly innocent himself—but something about the nonchalance, the ease with which it had all unfolded, left a bitter taste in his mouth. It wasn’t the first time he’d been swept up in something impulsive, but this time felt different. Maybe it was the wedding band. Maybe it was the way the red deer had treated it like just another casual fling. Maybe it was the fact that Cecil had let it happen without really considering the consequences.

He lay back on the bed, staring up at the ceiling as the buzz of satisfaction began to wear off, leaving only the hollow silence of the room. Part of him wanted to text a friend, share the wild story of his night, and laugh about it over drinks, but another part of him wanted to forget it had ever happened.

Cecil reached for his phone and opened his messages. His finger hovered over the screen, unsure of who to even message. This wasn’t something he could share with just anyone. Not everyone would understand how easy it was to get caught up in the moment, how desire could drown out reason so quickly.

He closed the messaging app and tossed the phone aside, letting out a long breath. Maybe it was better to leave it as it was—a fleeting, impulsive encounter that didn’t need to be dissected. It wasn’t the first time he’d had a reckless fling, and it probably wouldn’t be the last.

But as he lay there, the image of the red deer’s wedding band kept flashing in his mind, an undeniable reminder that some things, once done, couldn’t be undone.

Cecil stared at the ceiling, his mind swirling with the conflicting emotions of the night. The thrill and pleasure had been undeniable, but now, in the quiet solitude of his own room, he felt the weight of it all settling into his chest. He tried to shake it off, rationalizing that it had been just a moment—a stolen pleasure in the anonymity of a hotel far from home. Still, that image of the wedding band wouldn’t leave him.

He sat up, rubbing his face with both hands, trying to clear his thoughts. He wasn’t some naïve kid—he knew what he was getting into when he stepped into room 214. But now, in the aftermath, his usual ability to brush things off felt weaker as if something had shifted, and it made him uneasy.

Maybe it was because he hadn’t expected it to feel so intense, or maybe it was the red deer’s easy dismissal of his own commitment. Cecil hadn’t cared in the moment, but now, in the stark clarity that followed, it was harder to ignore. The excitement that had pulled him into the situation felt tainted by the knowledge that he had played a part in someone else’s betrayal, however casual the red deer had made it seem.

He stood up, pacing the small space of his hotel room, trying to push the thoughts away. He grabbed his phone again, pulling up his music playlist to drown out the silence. The soft beats filled the room, but it didn’t do much to quiet his mind.

Cecil’s thoughts turned back to the red deer, his confidence, his charm, and the way he had swept Cecil into something that had felt both exhilarating and wrong. Was this just the nature of these encounters? Was he making too much of it, or was there something deeper gnawing at him?

He glanced at the clock—4:47 AM. His stomach growled, reminding him of the hunger that had sent him out in the first place. The thought of food felt absurd now. Instead, he grabbed a bottle of water from the mini-fridge and took a long drink, letting the coolness ground him a little.

Cecil caught his reflection in the mirror across the room. His shirt was still unbuttoned, his hair a little messy from the shower and the brief, frenzied encounter with the red deer. He stared at himself for a moment, searching his own eyes for some kind of answer. Was he really okay with this? He’d told himself it didn’t matter, that it was just fun, but now… now he wasn’t so sure.

He thought about the way the red deer had looked at him—like he was just another fleeting thrill, someone to occupy a lonely night in a hotel far from home. Cecil had enjoyed it at first, the feeling of being wanted, of letting go of responsibility for just a little while. But now, as he stood in his quiet room, it felt hollow.

He sighed, running a hand through his hair again before buttoning up his shirt, as if covering up would somehow help him feel more put together. The hotel room, with its bland decor and impersonal atmosphere, seemed to close in on him. He grabbed his phone and his room key, deciding he couldn’t stay in there any longer. Maybe a walk, a little fresh air, would help clear his head.

As he stepped out into the hallway, he glanced down toward room 214, the door now firmly shut. The red deer was probably fast asleep by now, completely unbothered by the night’s events. Cecil shook his head, a small, bitter smile tugging at his lips. That was just how it worked for some people, he supposed.

For him, though, tonight was different. Something had shifted in him, and he wasn’t sure what to do with it. All he knew was that he couldn’t keep walking away from moments like this without confronting what they meant for him.

As he reached the elevator, Cecil pressed the button and leaned back against the wall, exhaling a long breath. The ding of the elevator arriving snapped him out of his thoughts, and as the doors opened, he stepped inside, hoping the fresh air outside might give him the clarity he desperately needed.

Cecil stepped into the elevator, the hum of the machinery a welcome distraction from the thoughts swirling in his mind. He leaned against the cool metal wall, watching the numbers descend, each floor ticking by in silence. As much as he wanted to shake off the lingering weight of what had happened in room 214, it clung to him, like an unwelcome shadow.

The elevator doors slid open to the hotel lobby, quiet and nearly empty this late at night. Cecil glanced around, briefly considering heading to the front desk to ask about nearby food options, but the thought felt hollow. He wasn’t hungry anymore—not for food, at least. What he craved now was clarity, some sense of purpose or resolution that eluded him in the quiet aftermath of his encounter.

Pushing through the glass doors of the hotel, he stepped out into the cool night air. The city was still alive but in a quieter way. The usual hum of traffic and chatter was distant, leaving the streets mostly empty. Cecil walked down the sidewalk, letting the cool breeze play over his face, the rhythmic sound of his footsteps grounding him as he wandered aimlessly.

His thoughts kept drifting back to the red deer, to the casual way he’d dismissed his marriage, the way Cecil had been so easily pulled into the moment. Was this who he was? Someone who could be so easily swayed by desire, no matter the cost? He’d always prided himself on being a little more in control, a little more thoughtful in his choices. But tonight had been different. The thrill, the rush—it had been too tempting to resist. And now, he wasn’t sure if he regretted it.

He paused at a crosswalk, the red light glowing in the quiet darkness. As he waited, his phone buzzed in his pocket. He pulled it out, glancing at the screen. It was a message from a friend, someone he hadn’t spoken to in a while. "How's the trip going? Miss ya!"

Cecil hesitated, his thumb hovering over the screen. He could respond, let them know he was fine, that everything was going well. But that would be a lie, wouldn’t it? Instead, he pocketed the phone, deciding not to deal with it just yet. He couldn’t explain what was wrong when he didn’t fully understand it himself.

The light changed, and he crossed the street, his feet carrying him further away from the hotel. He had no destination in mind, just the need to keep moving, to clear his head. As he walked, his mind kept circling back to the same questions—why had he done it? Why had he ignored the red deer’s wedding band, the voice in his head telling him to think twice?

Maybe it was loneliness. The trip had been exhausting, and the solitude of hotel rooms, of being away from anyone familiar, had gnawed at him more than he’d realized. The red deer had been there at the right moment, offering an escape, and Cecil had taken it. But it wasn’t enough. That brief moment of connection had left him feeling more isolated than before, the excitement of the night giving way to the empty streets and cold air.

Cecil stopped at a small park bench, sitting down and staring out at the darkened buildings across the street. The quiet was comforting, a stark contrast to the chaotic tangle of emotions inside him. He let out a long breath, leaning back and closing his eyes, trying to steady himself.

What now? He couldn’t undo what had happened, and maybe he didn’t need to. Maybe this was just another lesson—another experience to chalk up to being human, to wanting connection, even if it came with complications. But there was something he needed to confront in himself, something that had been stirred up by the night’s events.

He thought again of the red deer, the way he had seemed so at ease with it all, so sure of himself and what he wanted. Cecil envied that, in a way, but it wasn’t who he was. He couldn’t detach so easily, couldn’t brush off the consequences of his actions. And maybe that was the real issue—this wasn’t just about the red deer, or the wedding band, or the fleeting encounter. It was about Cecil himself, about the choices he was making and what they said about him.

He sat there for a while, letting the weight of it all sink in. The night was still, the air cool and crisp, and for the first time in hours, Cecil felt a small sense of peace. He didn’t have all the answers, but at least he was starting to ask the right questions.

With a deep breath, Cecil stood up and began walking back toward the hotel. Tomorrow, he’d return to his work, to the business trip that had brought him here in the first place. But tonight, he would carry this moment with him—this quiet reflection, this understanding that he needed to be more mindful of the choices he made.

As he approached the hotel, the lights glowing warmly in the distance, Cecil felt a strange sense of closure. The night hadn’t gone as expected, and he wasn’t sure where it would leave him, but for now, that was okay.

As Cecil made his way back to the hotel, the city seemed quieter than before, like it too was winding down from the night's energy. His steps were slower now, more deliberate. The haze of confusion that had followed him from the encounter was lifting, replaced with a calm acceptance that he wasn’t used to. There were still questions he couldn’t fully answer, but at least he wasn’t trying to run from them anymore.

When he reached the hotel, the lobby was still mostly empty, with only the concierge at the front desk glancing up as Cecil entered. The young buck gave a polite nod before heading toward the elevator, feeling a sense of relief that no one was there to ask questions or make small talk. It felt good to just be alone for a while.

The ride up was quiet. This time, he didn’t lean against the wall or fidget with his phone. He simply stood there, breathing in the stillness. As the elevator doors opened on his floor, he stepped out, noticing the soft glow of the hallway lights. It felt different than before—less sterile, more familiar now that he had made peace with the earlier events.

He walked past room 214, the memory of the red deer flashing briefly in his mind. For a moment, he considered stopping, knocking on the door, just to see if the older buck was still awake. But then he thought better of it. What would be the point? Whatever had happened between them was over, and there was no sense in dragging it out or complicating things further.

Cecil continued down the hall to his own room, slipping the keycard into the lock and pushing the door open with a sense of finality. The room looked the same—tidy, impersonal, untouched—but it no longer felt as cold or isolating as it had before. He shrugged off his jacket and hung it on the back of the chair, moving more slowly now, savouring the simplicity of being back in his own space.

He took a moment to sit on the edge of the bed, the faint hum of the air conditioning filling the silence. For the first time in what felt like hours, he allowed himself to really breathe, to let go of the tension that had been knotted in his chest since stepping into room 214.

His phone buzzed again, breaking the stillness. He reached for it, expecting another message from a friend, but instead, it was a notification from his work email.

"Just checking in—everything going well with the client?"

Cecil stared at the message for a moment, his mind briefly flicking back to the reason he was on this trip in the first place. The client meeting, the long hours of preparation, the stress of making sure everything went smoothly. It all felt so far away now, but he knew that was the reality he’d have to return to tomorrow.

He typed out a quick response, letting them know everything was on track, then set the phone down. Work would come soon enough, but for now, he needed to focus on himself. He wasn’t the kind of person who could bury things in distractions and forget about them.

With a long sigh, he lay back on the bed, staring up at the ceiling once again. His mind drifted back to the red deer’s words, the way he’d said, “She’s not here, and you are.” The casualness of it all had seemed alluring in the moment, but now, it left a bitter aftertaste.

Cecil wasn’t angry, but there was something about the whole experience that bothered him, something deeper than the act itself. Maybe it was because, despite the thrill, he realized how much he valued real connection. Not just the physical side of things, but something that meant more—something that didn’t leave him feeling hollow afterwards.

The excitement of that night, of room 214, had faded. What lingered was a deeper awareness of what he actually wanted. It wasn’t just about desire. It wasn’t just about filling the emptiness.

He wanted something real.

Cecil reached for the lamp on the nightstand, switching it off. The darkness wrapped around him, but this time, it didn’t feel suffocating. Tomorrow, he’d get back to work, back to the routine, but tonight, he would let himself feel everything that had happened and what it meant for him.

And when he woke up in the morning, he would take the next step, whatever that might be, knowing that he was just a little more sure of himself than he had been before.

Cecil lay in the dark, the soft hum of the air conditioner filling the silence, his thoughts finally beginning to slow. He’d made peace with the night—at least, he thought he had. His mind had been settling, his body relaxing into the hotel bed, when his phone buzzed again. He groaned, wondering what work-related nonsense they could be sending him this late.

He grabbed the phone from the nightstand and unlocked it with a swipe, opening his inbox. His breath caught in his throat as he stared at the subject line.

"Client Meeting Tomorrow - Mr. R. Alcott."

Mr. Alcott.

Cecil’s heart began to pound, his brain immediately drawing a connection he didn’t want to make. He sat up in bed, his thumb frozen above the screen as dread pooled in his stomach. No way...

But the more he thought about it, the more pieces began to click into place. The red deer, with his confident, self-assured demeanour. His dismissiveness, the way he carried himself as though the world bent to his will. And his face... it wasn’t just attractive—it was familiar, more so now that Cecil saw the name.

R. Alcott was the client he had been prepping to meet for weeks. The head of a powerful corporation. A deal that would be critical for the company Cecil worked for. The whole reason he was on this trip. And tonight, without knowing it, he had slept with him.

Cecil’s mind spun. Oh, no. This is bad. This is really, really bad. He dropped his phone on the bed, staring at it like it might give him some kind of answer. But all it gave him was more anxiety.

How could he not have recognised him? He had seen photos of Mr. Alcott in the prep material—glossy, professional headshots, of course—but that smile, the broad shoulders... How had he been so blind?

Cecil groaned, burying his face in his hands. What the hell have I done?

He forced himself to sit back up, trying to gather his thoughts. This was bad, yes, but he still had a job to do. Tomorrow morning, he would be sitting in a conference room with that same red deer, discussing multi-million dollar deals as if nothing had happened between them. Can I even pull this off?

He tried to think logically. Maybe Mr. Alcott didn’t care. He’d been so casual about the whole encounter like it was no big deal. But that only made things worse. If this man treated even major commitments like his marriage so casually, what did that say about how he’d handle business deals? Would he expect more? Or worse... would he think Cecil was easy to manipulate because of what had happened?

Cecil’s pulse quickened again. What if this ruined everything? What if Mr. Alcott used their encounter against him, and threatened to expose it if Cecil didn’t comply with whatever terms he wanted? The power dynamics suddenly shifted in his mind, and he felt a wave of fear.

He stood, pacing the room, running a hand through his hair. Think, Cecil, think. He needed to keep his cool. He couldn’t let this spiral out of control before the meeting even began.

Maybe the red deer had already forgotten about it, treating it as another night’s amusement, just as he’d treated his marriage. Maybe Cecil could walk into that meeting tomorrow, professional and composed, and Alcott wouldn’t even bat an eye.

But deep down, Cecil knew that wasn’t likely. The way Alcott had looked at him, the way he had teased him—it wasn’t just casual. There had been an energy, an intensity, something more than a passing moment of lust. Mr. Alcott had known exactly what he was doing the entire time.

Cecil stopped pacing, taking a deep breath. I can’t undo what’s already happened. He had to face this head-on. He couldn’t let his personal life—or what passed for it—ruin this deal. He had worked too hard and invested too much time and effort into this opportunity.

Still, as he climbed back into bed, the anxiety gnawed at him. Tomorrow morning, he would have to sit across from the red deer he had slept with, act like nothing had happened, and try to secure the deal of his career.

And if Mr. Alcott made it personal? Cecil wasn’t sure what he would do.

Sleep eluded him for hours, the weight of the situation pressing down on him like a heavy blanket. When he finally drifted off, it was with the uneasy certainty that tomorrow could make or break everything.

The next morning arrived too quickly, the bright light of the sun streaming through the hotel curtains. Cecil groggily reached for his phone, checking the time—7:30 AM. He had about two hours before the meeting.

He dragged himself out of bed and into the shower, trying to wash away the tension clinging to him from the night before. The warm water helped soothe his nerves, but not enough. The looming meeting with Mr. Alcott still hung over him like a dark cloud.

After dressing in his best suit, Cecil stood in front of the mirror, tying his tie with shaking hands. I can do this, he told himself over and over. I can handle this.

But as he gathered his things and prepared to leave for the conference room, his stomach twisted with nerves. Every step toward that meeting felt heavier than the last.

When he finally arrived at the conference room, his heart was pounding in his chest. He opened the door, stepping into the sleek, modern space where his team was already setting up. The table was lined with documents, and presentations ready to go. The tension in the air was palpable—everyone knew how important this meeting was.

And then the door opened again, and Cecil felt his stomach drop.

Mr. Alcott entered, tall, broad-shouldered, and commanding. He wore a sharp, dark suit, his presence immediately filling the room. His eyes swept over the group before landing on Cecil, and for a split second, something flickered in those piercing eyes—recognition, amusement, maybe even something darker.

Cecil forced himself to stay composed, keeping his face neutral as he stood with the rest of his team to greet the client. Mr. Alcott’s handshake was firm, his smile charming but unreadable.

“Good to see you all,” Mr. Alcott said smoothly, his gaze lingering on Cecil just a second too long before he turned to address the rest of the team.

Cecil’s heart hammered in his chest. He took his seat at the table, forcing his mind to focus on the task at hand. Whatever happened between them last night, it couldn’t interfere now.

But as the meeting began, and Mr. Alcott’s eyes occasionally flicked toward Cecil, that unspoken tension hummed between them, growing heavier with each passing minute.

And Cecil knew—this was far from over.

Cecil tried to focus on the presentation his team had prepared, but every glance from Mr. Alcott sent a pulse of anxiety through him. The room felt smaller, more stifling as if the walls were closing in with every second that passed. Alcott, for his part, was smooth and confident, leaning back in his chair, his broad shoulders relaxed. His expression remained neutral, but every so often, his eyes would flick to Cecil, just long enough to unsettle him.

When the presentation ended, and the team opened the floor for questions, Cecil braced himself, praying Alcott wouldn’t single him out. But of course, he did.

“I’d like to hear from Mr. Ellison,” Alcott said, his deep voice cutting through the room. “Your team’s proposal is strong, but I’m curious about the long-term vision. Where do you see this partnership going in, say, five years?”

The way Alcott said his name, the way he leaned forward slightly, it was clear the question had layers—more than just professional curiosity. Cecil swallowed hard, feeling every pair of eyes in the room turn toward him. He had prepared for this, gone over every scenario in his mind, but with Alcott staring at him like that, it was hard to stay grounded.

Clearing his throat, Cecil sat up straighter, meeting Alcott’s gaze. “Well, Mr. Alcott, our vision is to build a lasting partnership based on trust and mutual benefit. Over the next five years, we aim to expand our services to meet your growing needs and—”

“That’s nice,” Alcott interrupted, a sly smile tugging at the corner of his mouth. “But I’m more interested in how you personally plan to contribute. You see, a partnership isn’t just about the company. It’s about the people involved. Wouldn’t you agree, Cecil?”

The room went silent. Cecil’s team shifted uncomfortably, sensing the strange tension but not fully understanding it. Cecil’s pulse quickened, but he couldn’t let it show. He had to be professional, no matter what.

“I agree,” Cecil said, his voice steady despite the nerves rattling inside him. “Building relationships is key, and I’ll do whatever it takes to ensure this partnership is successful.”

Alcott’s smile widened. “That’s what I like to hear.” He leaned back in his chair, satisfied. “I’ll admit, I had my doubts, but after last night…” His words trailed off, and Cecil’s heart skipped a beat. “I think we’re on the right track.”

The implication in his words wasn’t lost on Cecil, though he doubted the rest of the room caught it. His boss, seated beside him, shot him a glance, clearly puzzled but unwilling to interrupt.

Cecil forced a smile, nodding. “I’m glad to hear that, Mr. Alcott.”

The rest of the meeting continued, but the weight of Alcott’s earlier words hung over Cecil like a dark cloud. He couldn’t escape the feeling that Alcott was toying with him, testing him. Every response he gave, every glance they shared, felt like part of a larger game that only Alcott knew the rules to.

When the meeting finally concluded, and the team began packing up, Alcott made his way over to Cecil, his towering presence casting a shadow over him. He smiled that same knowing smile, leaning in slightly so only Cecil could hear.

“Good job today,” he said, his voice low. “But don’t think I’ve forgotten about last night. I expect the same… dedication in our future dealings.”

Cecil’s heart pounded in his chest, but he kept his face neutral. “Of course, Mr. Alcott. I’m committed to the success of this partnership.”

Alcott chuckled softly, giving Cecil a slow once-over before straightening up. “I’m sure you are.”

With that, the red deer turned and left the conference room, his presence lingering long after he was gone. Cecil stood there, his mind racing, his stomach churning with a mixture of relief and dread. He had survived the meeting, but he knew this wasn’t the end.

As his team gathered their things and began to leave, his boss clapped him on the shoulder. “Great work, Cecil. Alcott seemed impressed.”

Cecil forced a smile. “Thanks.”

But as he walked out of the conference room and back toward the elevator, he couldn’t shake the feeling that his relationship with Mr. Alcott had crossed a line that couldn’t easily be uncrossed. It wasn’t just a business deal anymore—there was something else lurking beneath the surface, something more personal, more dangerous.

And as much as Cecil wanted to leave it behind, he knew that Alcott wouldn’t let him forget.

The elevator doors slid shut, and Cecil stared at his reflection in the polished metal. He had gotten himself into something far more complicated than he ever expected, and now there was no going back. Whatever the future held, one thing was certain: Mr. Alcott had him exactly where he wanted him.

As the elevator descended, Cecil took a deep breath, steeling himself for whatever was to come. The deal was done, but the real game had only just begun.

END