Lions and Landlords
------------------------Landlords, Lions, and the Need for Friends------------------------ The apartment meetings were never long — just enough time for Jessie to hand out updates and remind everyone to stop flushing weird things. Nobody really wanted to sit in a folding chair beside the vending machine in the laundry room, but they showed up, mostly out of respect for their rodent landlord. Jessie, for all his shyness and hunched posture, was a damn good landlord. Friendly without being fake. Unfailingly dependable. The kind of guy who patched drywall himself and was willing to work with you if your rent was a little late. The stout chunky rat had everyone’s respect in the apartment complex. Scott on the other hand, not so much. The large muscular puma leaned against the wall in the back, arms folded over a chest tight with muscle, fur a clean sweep of gold and cream under his tank top. The old deer from across the hall turned her nose up at him. There were enough strange men coming over that Scott had developed a bit of a reputation. Not that he cared or let the dirty looks get to him. He put his indifferent expression on and stood there in defiance, thinking bitterly “To hell with the puritan old crone.” Besides, he had his next exploit to plan out, and wasn’t going to let that stop him. Jessie cleared his throat near the end, glancing at his clipboard. “Uh… just a reminder that the stairwell light’s getting replaced tomorrow, so if it flickers tonight, it’s not haunted,” he said. “I mean. I don’t think it is.” Polite laughter. Jessie pushed his glasses up with one finger and looked over his agenda one last time, verifying that he didn’t miss anything. “Okay. That’s it. Thanks, everyone.” The room broke up quickly. Scott lingered near the door, stretching his arms overhead — slow and deliberate. His hoodie rode up as he reached, revealing the hard contour of his abs, fur rippling just slightly with the motion. The reaction was almost involuntary: Jessie glanced. Blinked. Looked away fast, ears twitching. Scott caught it anyway. “Everything alright, Jessie?” he asked, a touch of teasing in his tone. Jessie looked like he was trying very hard not to look at him again. “Oh — yeah. Just—uh—yeah. Good meeting. Thanks for coming.” Scott smiled faintly. “Hey, I wanted to ask. I’ve got a friend coming over tonight. Might be playing some… music.” He let the word hang, just enough to invite interpretation. Jessie hesitated. “Loud music?” Scott gave a slow shrug. “Could be. Little rhythmic. Bit of a backbeat. Might get a bit… repetitive.” Jessie’s face went pink beneath the tan of his fur. “Oh. Uh. Yeah. No problem,” he said quickly. “I won’t be around much anyway. I’ve got some units to check on tomorrow. Early day.” “You sure?” Scott asked, eyes steady, voice low but sincere. “I can keep it down. I know it sucks to have someone directly above you being loud.” Jessie shook his head, flustered but not offended. “No, no, it’s fine. I mean — it’s your place. You’re allowed to, uh, have friends.” Scott smiled, this time a little more gently. “Thanks, man.” Jessie nodded, already halfway into the hallway. “Just, um. Hope the music’s good.” “It’ll get the job done,” Scott said with a dry chuckle. Jessie gave an awkward wave and disappeared around the corner, keys jingling faintly as he went. Scott stood there a moment longer, the amusement fading slowly from his face. That little flicker of awkward honesty in Jessie’s expression — it had stuck with him, somehow. Still smiling, just a little, he turned and headed back to his place. It was a little spartan, and anyone cold tell that hadn’t really made it a home, but at least there was a bed there. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Scott sat on the edge of the bed, still damp with sweat, staring at the floor. Reed was already up and dressed — adjusting his hoodie in the mirror like he hadn’t just ended a year-and-a-half hookup in the same breath as checking the weather. The wolf looked casual. Relaxed. Untouched. “You’re really moving?” Reed asked as he slipped his phone into his pocket. “Yeah,” Scott said, still facing away. “Already gave the landlord my notice and everything. Don’t worry though, it’s Ten minutes across town. Same rent, better unit with a bigger bathroom.” Reed nodded absently. “Mmm. Probably not gonna work out anymore then.” Scott turned, slow. “It’s ten minutes.” “Yeah, but like… you’re already on my way home. But now? I don’t think I’d want to deal with more traffic just for a piece of ass.” That landed like a flat stone in water. No ripple. Just a dull little plunk. Reed offered a shrug. “It’s been good, though. You’re hot. We had fun.” “That’s it?” Reed gave a lazy smile, the kind that didn’t quite reach his eyes. “C’mon, you know what this was.” Scott didn’t answer. Reed didn’t wait for one. He gave a pat on the back — like a teammate in a locker room — and left without a glance. When the door clicked shut, the silence that filled the room felt different this time. Not the usual post-nut quiet, where you catch your breath and scroll your phone. This was… heavy. After a year and a half of convenient sex, that was how it ended: with a convenience store goodbye. Scott didn’t feel heartbroken. Just cold. He picked up his phone, thumbed to the only person who wouldn’t make this feel more pathetic than it already did. Scott: ever get the feeling this whole lifestyle just… stops working? Lee: oh no what happened did you lose your favorite cock again Scott: reed bailed said since I’m moving across town, it’s not convenient anymore not even a conversation just “welp, that’s done” and out the door Lee: ugh gross what a dick but also, yeah i know that feeling like you’re recyclable Scott: i went through my messages looked at all my regulars and i realized none of them know a single thing about me they don’t ask about work or my family or anything Lee: baby that’s just par for the course Unless you’re ready to admit I was right about the whole boyfriend thing? Scott smiled, weakly. It faded fast. Scott: Ugh, don’t even say the B word. Not ready for that. Lee: Then what are you feeling? Scott: i can’t even name what i’m feeling not used — i signed up for this not demeaned — i liked the power stuff when it felt good but this was different it was just… so fucking alienating Lee: yeah i’ve been there like you don’t belong in your own bed And you’re like “What the hell am I doing?” Scott: i hate that it doesn’t feel good anymore Do some people grow out of kink and casual fun? Lee: I mean yeah, tastes change. But it doesn’t have to be that. some people can eat their favorite food every day forever others get sick of it after a week and it starts to taste like cardboard you’re not weird for getting sick of cardboard dick Scott gave a weak snort. Scott: so what’s the alternative? i can’t do the relationship thing feels like prostitution + feelings Lee: okay first of all – rude. Not a whore for having a BF second of all you don’t need a capital-R Relationship just something that doesn’t make you feel like a fucking vending machine Scott stared at the screen, then typed slowly. Scott: you ever think there are hookups who could be… more? not boyfriends but like people you can trust who listen who don’t treat you like a body with a schedule Lee: soooo like a friends with benefits situation with heavy emphasis on the “friend” part Scott: Yeah. That sounds about right. Lee: Well then start looking for that. Scott: You know I might actually already have someone in mind. Lee: OMG who!? Scott hesitated. Scott: don’t laugh but that kinda sounds like… my landlord? Lee: LMAO oh my god Jessie?! Scott: Hey I said don’t laugh! he’s always respectful checks in remembers stuff i’ve said fixed my dryer and makes banana muffins for our apartment meetings Lee: wow you have a rodent fetish huh? Scott: i didn’t say that Lee: hate to point it out but this makes the 6th rat you’ve wanted to fuck Scott: shut up Lee: you’ve got a thing for us just admit it i was your gateway rat Scott: you’re lucky you’re cute Lee: i know you just didn’t wanna fuck me because your taste in men sucks You only like masc dudes like some basic bitch Scott chuckled, shaking his head. Scott: honestly he’s not some roided out alpha male it’s not even about Jessie’s looks he’s older, chubby, awkward but like i trust him Lee: so what’s stopping you? you’re moving anyway no awkward fallout no long-term lease go ask him to check your pipes and while he’s down there… Scott: you’re incorrigible Lee: you like that about me Scott leaned back, the laugh finally settling something in his chest. He glanced toward the kitchen. The sink had been dripping for weeks — just a little leak. Nothing urgent. But maybe it was time to call maintenance. Just in case. Three days passed. Scott filled them with half-finished workouts, shallow meals, and deeper thoughts than he was comfortable with. After Reed left him with that offhand “goodbye” and a shrug, something in him shifted. He’d been used before — willingly, even — but this felt different. Like the game had changed and no one told him the rules. His conversation with Lee kept echoing in his head: “Some people can eat the same food every day. Others get sick of it.” He was definitely getting sick of it. The thought came back again when he saw the drip under his kitchen sink. It wasn’t bad, just a soft plunk every twenty seconds, but it gave him an idea. Fifteen minutes later he had came up with a plan and put it into action. One tap. A pause. Then a second, lighter knock. Scott opened the door shirtless — not by accident. His fur was freshly brushed and still slightly damp from a shower. He wore gym shorts low on his hips, feigning casual. Jessie stood there in a faded work shirt, toolbox in one paw and a clipboard under the other arm. The rat blinked once, eyes dipping quickly to Scott’s torso, then just as quickly back up. “Morning,” Jessie said. “Morning,” Scott returned, stepping aside. “Appreciate you coming by.” “You said it was still leaking?” “Yeah. Not urgent but figured you’d rather fix it before it turns into a pool.” Jessie gave a small smile and moved past him, heading toward the kitchen. “Always do. Prevention’s cheaper than panic.” It took a few minutes for Scott to work up the nerve while he watched the rat work, but eventually Scott spoke up. “I should thank you for all this,” he said, voice easy. “You always come through.” Jessie grunted from under the sink. “It’s the job.” “Still. Some people would’ve left it for Monday. I’m verrrry grateful.” Jessie peeked out, brows raised. “What’s this about?” he said. Scott leaned against the counter, folding his arms. “Can’t a tenant show a little…. appreciation?” “Depends, what kind of appreciation we’re talking.” Scott let the moment breathe. Then, “No-strings kind.” Jessie paused, tools still in hand. “You mean—” “I mean,” Scott said, eyes steady, “if you wanted to stick around after the leak’s patched, I’d be into that. Just fun. Nothing complicated.” Jessie straightened up slowly, wiping his hands on a towel. He didn’t look offended — just thoughtful. Something shifted in his face. A hesitation. “…You still seeing your friend?” he asked. Scott blinked. “Reed?” Jessie nodded. “From what you mentioned a few nights ago. Figured you two might have been a thing.” Scott gave a bitter chuckle. “It was just casual. Was. Past tense.” Jessie tilted his head. “Something happen?” Scott hesitated, then shrugged, tone dry. “He left. Told me my new place is too far from his usual route home. Said it wasn’t convenient anymore. Year and a half, and that’s all I got.” Jessie frowned. “That’s shitty.” “Yeah,” Scott said softly. “Didn’t even pretend to care. Just zipped up, tossed a ‘good luck’ over his shoulder, and bounced.” Jessie stood still for a second longer. Then he set the towel down, slowly. “I’m not judging,” he said carefully. “I’ve done casual. Hell, I’ve had some good hookups. But I don’t really do the kind where it’s just sex anymore.” Scott raised a brow. Jessie continued, voice quiet but sure. “If I’m gonna have fun with someone, I want there to be some trust. Real friendship. Doesn’t have to be a relationship, but… not emptiness.” Scott nodded, not defensive — just… surprised. Maybe a little relieved. “That’s fair,” he said. “I think I’m starting to realize that’s what I want too.” Jessie gave a small, tired smile. “Then maybe we’re on the same page.” A pause settled between them — a soft, quiet beat. “But,” Jessie added, stepping back and picking up his tools, “I really do have a backlog today. Got a few more units to check before the afternoon’s out.” Scott’s ears twitched. “Right. Of course. No pressure.” Jessie hesitated again, then looked back at him with a slight, crooked grin. “But… I’ve got some leftover lasagna in the fridge. Homemade. If you’re still around later tonight, maybe I bring it over.” Scott blinked. “You actually want to reschedule?” Jessie shrugged. “If you’re still up for it. I wouldn’t mind a slower night. Little food, maybe a movie.” Scott smiled faintly, though something in his chest was already bracing for disappointment. “Yeah,” he said. “Sure. I’ll be here.” Jessie nodded. “Cool. See you tonight, then.” ________________________________________ Later That Night The knock came at 9:12 PM. Scott had half-convinced himself it wouldn’t. That Jessie had been polite but uninterested, and the whole “leftover lasagna” line was just a gentle brush-off wrapped in Midwestern kindness. But when he opened the door, there Jessie stood — wearing a different shirt, holding a foil-covered tray that still radiated warmth and smelled like garlic and melted cheese. “I brought backup,” Jessie said. Scott blinked. “You actually came back.” “I said I would.” Scott smiled, a little surprised. A little pleased. “You’re kinda weird.” Jessie shrugged. “Told you I was old-fashioned.” Scott stepped aside. “Get in here before I eat that out of your hands.” ________________________________________ Interior – Scott’s Apartment – Later The lights were low. A crime thriller played muted on the TV. Jessie and Scott sat side by side on the couch, legs just barely touching, plates balanced on throw pillows. The lasagna was absurdly good — thick and flavorful, with crispy corners and a cheesy center. Scott took a bite and groaned. “Okay. I’d sleep with you just for this.” Jessie chuckled. “That’s the most honest offer I’ve gotten all week.” “Seriously,” Scott said, nudging him with a shoulder. “You should run a little business out of the complex. Jessie’s Comfort Food.” Jessie grinned. “Oh hell no. I have a niece that owns a restaurant, they’re way more work than you’d expect.” Conversation flowed for a little while longer, Jessie regaling the puma with tales of demanding Karens, drug fueled kitchen staff, and other restaurant horror stories passed through the family. Eventually they lapsed into comfortable quiet again. The movie flickered, forgotten. The food was almost gone. “So….” Scott shifted about, his eyes locked onto Jessie’s as the rat sat across from him on the sofa, a hint of nervousness playing across his features. The tension between them was palpable, a mix of anticipation and uncertainty that made the air feel charged. He scooched closer, his voice low and steady as he broke the silence. "I’ve been thinking about what you said earlier. About wanting something more than just casual hookups. I get where you’re coming from, and I respect that." Jessie’s eyes flickered with a mix of surprise and hope. "I do too, Scott. I just... I want to make sure we’re on the same page. You know I won’t treat you any differently afterwards, right? I’m just making sure nothing turns weird." Scott nodded, his expression thoughtful. "Agreed. How about this, we kiss for a vibe check? No pressure. See if the spark is there. If not, no big deal." Jessie leaned back slightly, a small smile playing on his lips. "Sounds good to me. No pressure." The moment hung between them, heavy with unspoken words and pent-up desire. Scott could feel his heart racing, the thud of it echoing in his ears as he leaned in, his lips brushing against Jessie’s in a brief, firm kiss. Jessie responded, his lips parting to deepen the kiss briefly before pulling back, his hands resting lightly on Scott’s shoulders. The kiss was straightforward, a test of compatibility rather than an expression of deep emotion. Scott’s hands roamed over Jessie’s body, feeling the curves and contours beneath the fabric of his shirt. Jessie’s own hands were not idle, tracing the hard lines of Scott’s abs, his touch curious and exploratory. Scott pulled back, his breath steady as he looked into Jessie’s eyes. "So, was that ok?" Jessie nodded, his own breath coming in short gasps. "More than okay." Scott’s hands moved to Jessie’s Hawaiian shirt, slowly unbuttoning it to reveal the soft fur and his beer gut beneath. He leaned down, pressing kisses to Jessie’s collarbone and his neck, eliciting soft moans and shivers from the rat. The rat seemed especially fond of having his nipples played with, so he spent several minutes drawing circles around them with his tongue and giving them a light tug with his teeth. He had done the same thing with a few other guys before, some of them twinks and others gym addicts. But this was the first time he'd been with a heavier set man before, and he had to admit the softer texture of Jessie’s chest felt nice. He allowed himself to indulge in the new experience for a few minutes, before coming back to his senses. He could probably just play with his nipples and get his landlord to jizz his pants hands free, but he had other plans. Scott stood up and stripped slowly for the entranced rat. “Jesus.” Jessie breathed out, going bug-eyed at the site. Scott wasn’t expecting such an earnest response and couldn’t suppress a chuckle. It was a far cry from the smooth well-practiced one- liners that others had given him, but somehow it was way more endearing. “You like what you see I take it?” “Uh, yeah.” Jessie cleared his throat, his ears going pink with embarrassment as he became aware of his outburst. “Uh…very much so.” Scott beamed “You’re fucking adorable, you know that? Come here.” Scott planted another kiss on his bewildered neighbor, while guiding him to lean back and relax on the sofa. Their lips were slow to part until Scott knelt on the floor between his legs, his hands already working to unbutton Jessie’s pants. Jessie lifted his hips, allowing Scott to push his pants and underwear down, revealing his hard, ready cock. It didn’t look particularly large given the rat’s overall weight, but it was still a respectable size, if a tad below average. The real showstopper was his landlord’s big fat nuts. It was awe inspiring; almost ridiculous to behold. "Those are some big boulders," Scott murmured, a note of appreciation in his voice. Jessie chuckled, a low, embarrassed sound. "Well, you know, rodents. We’re known for it." The smug image of Lee going “I told you so, rat-lover” flashed across his mind, but Scott quicky shooed it away. Then, after taking a moment to appreciate the magnificent sight before him, he leaned down and took the rat’s length into his mouth. Jessie gasped, his hips bucking slightly as Scott’s warm, wet mouth enveloped him. Scott went wide eyed for a moment as more length than he was expecting surprised him and Jessie was upgraded from smaller than average to average. He’d have to make a mental note that heavier set guys have an extra hidden inch or two. Still, he had deep throated his share of fat cocks in his time, so he could handle this. The mountain lion took his time, exploring every inch with his tongue. He’d humor Jessie by giving plenty of attention to his pulsating rod but was giving just as much attention to the rodent’s jumbo-sized eggs. The smell of soap, while faint, was still strong enough to indicate the man had showered shortly before coming here. Scott didn’t mind, in fact it worked well with his natural scent. It was the typical woody and earthy warm tones that many guys had, but there was this hint of freshness that the cleanliness amplified. It was hard to explain; like the smell of skin, but better. The puma was utterly fascinated and spent quite a while lapping at every inch of the rat’s crotch. Jessie’s stomach pressed against Scott’s forehead, the soft fur and warm skin a contrast to the cool air of the room. It was very relaxing, and soon he was practically in a trance as he worked. It was only when the puma surprised himself with how close he had been getting that he had to snap out of it. He didn’t even realize he had been stroking himself absentmindedly while servicing the rat. Determined not to blow to soon, he switched his focus to exclusively service Jessie’s now leaky cock. His tongue swirling around the sensitive head, his hands working in tandem to bring Jessie to the brink of pleasure. "Scott," Jessie gasped, his voice breathless and desperate. "You’re good at this." Scott pulled back slightly, a smirk playing on his lips as his mouth was full. "Iff ha a wot off pwactiff." Jessie chuckled, a low, appreciative sound. "I can tell. You must get raving reviews." Scott grinned, a friendly chuckle escaping him. "Somefing wike fat." Scott continued his ministrations, his head bobbing as he took Jessie deeper, his hand moving in sync with his mouth. Occasionally he’d slow down and let the rat catch his breath, only to speed up again once he was sure he wasn’t going to blow his load. After a while, Jessie’s moans filled the room, his body trembling with each pass of Scott’s tongue. He had never blown someone for so long before, and his jaw was starting to hurt. Granted with others he didn’t have any reason to prolong his experience and just tried to suck the cum out of others. Still, discomfort aside, this was extremely satisfying. The lion was musing he’d have to remember this kink to explore in depth when Jessie’s breathing and body language started taking a drastic turn. Just as Jessie was on the verge of climax, Scott pulled back, a smirk playing on his lips. "Not yet," Scott said, his hoarse voice low and commanding. "I want you last longer so you get the full experience." He smacked his ass to emphasize exactly what the full experience would entail. Jessie nodded, his chest heaving as he tried to catch his breath. "Okay," he managed to gasp out. "Just... give me a second." They paused for a moment, the rat’s breaths coming in ragged gasps as he tried to regain his composure. Scott climbed back onto the couch, his joints popping as he moved. Now that he wasn’t face first into his landlord’s crotch, he realized his knees were really sore. He took a break and leaned against Jessie, catching a whiff of surprisingly pleasant coconut deodorant. He smiled to himself as he mused how well it went with his tropical themed shirt. He’d have to ask the rat what his deal was with his tropical themes later. It was kind of cute. After a few minutes, Jessie had recomposed himself, and reached into his shirt pocket, pulling out a condom. "I brought this, just in case," he said, his voice filled with a mix of hope and nervousness. Scott took the condom, his expression thoughtful. "You know, full disclosure, I’ve had seven different guys inside me the past month and a half, but –” Jessie’s eyes widened slightly, "Seven in a month and a half? Holy shit." He gave what was obviously a friendly chuckle, as Scott could tell he was more impressed than judgmental. “I shouldn’t be surprised. I mean with a body like that you could get anyone you wanted on those hookup apps.” Scott scoffed, “Yeah, but they’re all dicks.” Jessie gave the puma a look and was about to point out the low hanging fruit that was dicks on a gay dating app, but Scott rolled his eyes and cut him off before he could. “Aaaanyways. What I’m trying to say is that I only let Reed go in raw, and I get tested regularly. I’m clean." Internally he winced as soon as the words left his mouth. Stupid cat! He thought-yelled at himself. Don’t make it sound like you’re offering him Reed’s sloppy seconds. Thankfully Jessie didn’t seem to take it that way and was more focused on what Scott was offering. Scott grinned, a sense of relief washing over him by his reaction. "I am careful. So, what do you say? No condom?" Jessie nodded, a slow smile spreading across his face. "Okay. If you’re sure, I trust you. It’s been six months for me since I’ve had any action, so I’m pretty sure I’m good too.” Scott smiled back, feeling a sense of anticipation. Thankfully he was cognizant enough not to reflexively blurt out “I guessed as much” or some other socially awkward thing like he did back when he was a teenager. Lessons learned the hard way. Instead he went with "I’m sure. By the way, there’s lube in that tiny table next to the coach with the remotes." New objective in mind, the rat waddled over to the table, hindered by his pants and underwear still around his ankles. For a few moments it looked like he was going to shimmy all the way there, but he decided to kick them off instead after a few seconds. Scott mused that at least he wasn’t the only one that was at risk of being awkward. The rat took a moment to appreciate the sight of Scott nude on the other side of the living room before removing his opened shirt and tossing it into the floor next to the rest of his clothes. “I uh, don’t want to get lube on my favorite shirt.” He offered meekly. “You look absolutely stunning by the way, that must have taken a lot of work to get a body like that.” “Thanks!” Scott beamed. “And yeah, I’m not going to lie, it’s a lot of work and I’m glad you noticed. I have a daily routine.” There was a tiny voice inside his head that made Scott pause, screaming that this little moment was important. The gears in the puma’s horny brain played catch up before the obvious “fat guy afraid to take off his shirt in front of the body builder” clicked. “You look great too by the way; I’m kind of envious of your silky fur. I bet that takes some work too.” Scott finally replied, hoping he hadn’t been too late on the uptake. Jessie blushed, stammering modestly as he seemed to be taken off guard by the complement. “Uhh, thanks. It’s just a conditioner and some coconut oil.” Relieved by the interaction, Scott made sure to keep the mood light by seductively swaying his hips back and forth before bending over on the coach, presenting himself as seductively as he could. “I’ll have to keep that in mind. Now why don’t you come over here with that lube.” The rat took a deep, shuddering breath as he was instantly turned on again by the site. As he approached, his hands were trembling slightly, and he took a minute fumbling with the lube. Just as Scott looked behind himself to see what was taking so long, he spotted the rat blowing hot air on his slickened hands and rubbing them together to warm himself up. The puma had never had anyone do that for him before; it struck him as oddly sweet. When Jessie finally started, he was slow and his touch gentle and exploratory. He was surprised as a warm lubed hand reached around and started stroke the mountain lion’s cock. Jessie sensed Scott flinch in surprise when he touched his dick and offered “You were absolutely incredible with those oral skills earlier. Let me return the favor for a bit.” The lion’s cock jumped at the suggestion. It was such a simple thing, but for some reason the reciprocity and acknowledgement turned him on way more than he thought it would. It was as if a long-neglected button had just been pressed. “Okay, sure” is all he could breathe out. Jessie wasn’t pokey with his hands. He spent a few minutes rubbing his lubed thumb in a circle around the puma’s hole and took his time to slowly sink in and out of him. Scott was willing to soldier through the initial discomfort he had come to expect from opening up, but found he didn’t have to. After a few minutes, Scott moaned from the attention, as his landlord’s thumb had found his prostate. His body arching into the touch, his hips pushing back against Jessie’s fingers. This felt REALLY good. "More," he gasped. "I need more." Jessie complied, adding another finger, then another, stretching and preparing Scott with care and patience. He was meticulous, his movements slow and deliberate, ensuring that Scott was ready and comfortable. His mind entered a haze as his hips grinded greedily into the rat’s hands. It wasn’t until he was about to burst and Jessie hastily retreated that he realized a significant amount of time had passed. Now it was Scott’s turn to blush. “S-sorry. I didn’t realize I left you hanging there. You’re uh….really, REALLY good with your hands there.” “No worries.” Jessie flashed a toothy grin. “Like I said before, It’s paying you back for the time you took with that BJ. Besides it was pretty hot to watch you enjoy that.” Scott breathed out in relief. “Uhh, good to hear….give me a few minutes, then we’ll do something that gets both of us off.” The pair took another breather while the puma settled down. He stretched again since his body was aching from being in that position for so long. Then he went to pee while Jessie washed his hands and got a glass of water. When he got back to the living room, Jessie offered him a glass of water, which Scott took appreciatively. Sex was thirsty work. There was a moment where he thought to never take a drink from a hookup that he didn’t see poured but reasoned that he trusted Jessie well enough. The water was really refreshing, and there was this sense of novelty and naughtiness in the back of his mind that he actually trusted someone enough to do that with. He winced internally. When was the last time he had someone inside him that he could trust wouldn’t roofie him up until now? Had it been months? Years? He couldn’t remember but knew damn well that it wasn’t with Reed. “Would you be more comfortable in the bedroom? I’d throw out my back being bent over on the coach for that long.” That snapped him out of it. There were more interesting, pleasant things to worry about right now. Scott’s all-consuming need for this chubby, awkward, wonderful man’s dick kept him from wallowing in self-pity. “Uh, yeah, actually, if you don’t mind. I may work out but even my back has its limits. Just bring the lube, we’ll need more.” “Roger that!” Jessie waved the bottle in the air as the pair made their way into Jessie’s room. There was a dildo on the nightstand that Scott had forgotten to put away, some of his clothes we on the floor, and his bed wasn’t made. But the puma was well past the point where he could be embarrassed. “Oh sweet! Is that a 1969 Camaro ZL1?” Jessie pointed to the classic car calendar his sister had given him earlier this year when his family took a trip to the Chicago auto show a few months ago. “Yeah! I’m a bit of a classic car guy.” “I get it. That’s 427 V8 is sexy as fuck.” “Yeah man!” Jessie had just landed on one of Scott’s passions, and the puma was practically gushing out “When I hear that roar of 430 horses roaring, I swear to god I about cream my pants.” The metaphor brought him out of his excitement as quickly as it started. They were supposed to have sex, not nerd out over cars. Still, it was good to know they shared another common interest. “Yeah, tell me about it. Have you seen the mustang that’s around town near the supermarket? Its-” Jessie couldn’t finish his sentence as he became enthralled by Scott splaying suggestively over his bedside. “Hmm?” Scott purred teasingly. “Its…Its….oh hell, what was I talking about?” The rat blinked confused. “Cars. But I think you were about to fuck my brains out?” The puma’s voice was low and seductive. “R-right.” Scott’s landlord swallowed nervously as he approached the bed with his lube, completely forgetting about their previous distractions. “Why don’t you slick yourself up with some of that, then show me what that cock of yours can do.” Scott smiled as he watched Jessie get hard again from just that little bit of dirty talk. Jessie’s eyes met Scott’s, a mix of relief and appreciation shining in them. "Okay. Just tell me if it’s too much." Scott nodded, a reassuring smile playing on his lips. "I will. Trust me." Jessie positioned himself at Scott’s entrance, his eyes meeting the mountain lion’s as he slowly pushed inside. Scott gasped, his body yielding to Jessie’s intrusion, his muscles clenching around the rat’s cock. Jessie shuddered in pleasure, a soft moan escaping his lips. "Wow," Jessie murmured, his voice filled with surprise and delight. "I’m not used to this. It feels amazing." Scott chuckled, a low, encouraging sound. "I’m glad you like it." Jessie began to move, his hips rolling in a steady rhythm as he drove into Scott, his hand reaching around to stroke the mountain lion’s cock in time with his thrusts. The room filled with the sounds of their lovemaking, the soft moans and gasps, the wet slapping of flesh against flesh, the occasional creak of the bed. As Jessie moved, his cock slipped out a few times, and Scott laughed it off, encouraging him to try again. "It’s okay, Jessie. Just take your time. Slow down and savor the moment. I’m patient." Jessie chuckled, a mix of embarrassment and amusement in his voice. "Sorry, I’m a bit nervous. And... your body is really distracting." Scott gently pushed his landlord onto his back. "No worries. We’ve got all night. And I’m flattered you find me distracting. Why don’t you let me ride you, so you can focus on feeling me up? I’ll keep it at a slow pace so you can take your time.” Jessie’s mouth opened in shock. “Y-you’d do that for me?” Scott chuckled. “Of course! It’s kind of an ego boost for me honestly. I’m glad someone finally noticed. Most of the guys I’m with take it for granted.” The rat nodded as his shaky hands roamed over Scott’s body, his touch appreciative and curious. True to his word, the puma impaled himself on the rat’s shaft and rocked himself up and down slowly. When Jessie’s hands were on the puma’s abs, he tensed them. When he reached out to his chest, Scott bounced his pecs. And when Jessie found Scott’s arms, he flexed for him. The rat’s ears were burning pink with embarrassment the entire time, completely overwhelmed with how Scott was indulging him. He couldn’t speak he was so enthralled by the display. He was about to rest his hands completely and shut down from the overload of things to perv at when the lion leaned down towards him and breathed heavily. “That’s just the front side. Now get your hands on my back. I’ve got more to show you.” Jessie complied, and Scott schooled him in what must have been the world’s most sexy anatomy lesson on the muscles of the back. Lats, Trapezius, rhomboids, erector spinae, Scott gave him the rundown and made him feel everything, while being sure to flex each and every place he touched. He took it slow, there was a few times that the rat almost nutted before his lesson was done, but the puma stopped often enough to ensure that didn’t happen. By the time they moved on to his thighs and his ass, Jessie was practically a jabbering puddle of ecstasy. Scott didn’t mind; in fact, he felt rather comfortable leaning against the rat’s belly. Scott would have to make a mental note that heavier set guys could be one of the most pleasant body types to have a drawn-out fuck session with. Speaking of which, Scott glanced at the clock on his wall and found it was already one in the morning. As much fun as he was having, he figured he should probably stop torturing the poor creature trapped between his thighs and let him cum. Besides, there were a few times when Scott had to stop on his own behalf. The sweet, earnest cries of pleasure that this man was making under him were driving him wild. It was hot enough that the rat managed to stay hard for hours on end, but to Scott’s delight, Jessie was an absolute factory for precum. His ass was staying so slick that he didn’t need to stop to relube anymore. He could feel his orgasm building, and as he clenched down hard onto the rat’s throbbing member, he felt his body coil tight as a spring. The puma bounced up and down increasing urgency, while his landlord maintained a now vice-like grip on his hips. "Scott" Jessie gasped, his voice a desperate plea. "I’m close. So close." Scott leaned down, his teeth nipping at Jessie’s ear, his voice low and husky. "Then do it! Cum for me Jessie. Let me feel that hot load of yours." Those words were all it took, and the rat tumbled over the edge, his body convulsing as his release spilled into the puma’s ass. The fact that it just seemed to keep spurting rope after rope into his milking fuckhole left Scott so horny that he couldn’t even see straight. How much cum did this man have? With a determined roar, a savage clench, and furious masturbation, his own orgasm crashing over him in a wave of sensation that left him shaking and breathless. He had painted Jessie’s chest white in one of the most plentiful loads he’d ever had in his entire life. They collapsed together, their bodies slick with sweat and come, their breaths coming in ragged gasps as they held each other loosely, Scott managed to pat Jessie’s shoulder reassuringly, feeling a sense of satisfaction and camaraderie. "Holy… -wheeze- holy shit…. -wheeze- …Jessie," he murmured, his voice coming out cracked from all the straining "That was... holy shit." Jessie panted, struggling to catch his breath. "I know right! -wheeze- that was… -wheeze- that was…oh my god." All they could do was bask in their afterglow as their minds collectively rebooted from all the feel-good chemicals flooding their system. When they regained their senses, the pair took their time cleaning up, their actions efficient and considerate. Scott grabbed a warm, damp cloth from the bathroom, gently wiping Jessie’s chest of the absolute lake of cougar seed that was on his chest. Jessie returned the favor, his touch respectful as he took a paper towel to Scott’s absolutely devastated ass. Scott found the experience novel; he had normally only cleaned himself up afterwards. It made something warm and fuzzy radiate from inside his chest. When they were both clean, they fished the blankets from off the floor and made the bed. They opted to only use the lighter blanket, as their bodies pressing lightly together radiated a warmth, comforting presence. Scott’s arm rested lightly around Jessie, holding him close in a friendly embrace. Jessie’s hand rested on Scott’s chest, his fingers tracing lazy patterns on the mountain lion’s fur. "Jessie" Scott murmured, his voice soft and content. "Thanks for tonight. It was... exactly what I needed." Jessie gave him a tender scritch on his head. “It was pretty good for me too. One hell of a surprise for the day, but some of the best things in life are.” Scott was about to reply when his body betrayed him. Something gurgled loudly as the reservoir of rat seed protested loudly in the puma’s ass. It wanted out, and it wanted out NOW. His eyes went wide as he launched out of bed. “Be right back!” he said frantically as he barely made it to the bathroom in time. The ensuing graphic battle was violent, and by the time Scott was finished, he wouldn’t be surprised if the entire complex had heard him. He was beet red when he exited the bathroom. “Sorry about that, I - ” “My bad!” Jessie interrupted him. “I…uhh…well I might have been busy lately and not able to get off in a few weeks. I might have overdone it…..err…sorry.” And just like that, somehow the uno reverse had spared Scott, and he didn’t feel so embarrassed. “Its…uhh, okay. I mean I’m sorry you’re so busy that you can’t even beat off. That sounds horrible.” “Yeah, I’ve been needing to change that.” The lion cleared his throat, not entirely feeling sexy right now, but giving it a shot anyways. “You know, i…uhh…could help with that while I’m here.” Jessie smiled warmly. “I’d like that” Scott kept going “So you don’t have to absolutely FLOOD me, you absolute freak of nature.” “Hey! It wasn’t that bad was it?” “It was an absolute flood! A massacre! I know your nuts are huge but dude, come on! How is that physically possible? Do you need an IV to rehydrate? That was insane!” Scott hammed it up as Jessie swatted him with a pillow, laughing playfully all the while. As they messed around and were being silly with each other, Scott couldn’t help but think about how different this was from his experiences with Reed and others like him. The minor mess-ups, like Jessie’s dick falling out a few times, only added to the casual, trusting atmosphere. There was no pressure, no expectation, just two friends enjoying each other’s company and taking care of one another. Hell, this was probably the first time in years that the person that fucked him got to sleep in his bed afterwords. It felt nice…. really nice. Eventually they settled down and drifted off to sleep, pressed together, and enjoyed each other’s company. It had been a month. Something felt different about Scott’s apartment now. It wasn’t anything he’d done intentionally — same windows, same furniture, same scuffed floors — but the space felt warmer these days. Lived-in, not just occupied. The kind of warmth that didn’t come from new paint or better lighting, but from time spent well. From laughter in the kitchen. From shared silences on the couch. Scott was reclined on that same couch now, a half-empty mug of coffee on the end table beside him, a playlist meandering quietly through the speakers. Outside, the last rays of daylight were sliding between the buildings, the golden hour turning everything soft around the edges. His phone buzzed in his paw, and he glanced down. Lee: So. Cougar. You gonna pretend I didn’t ask for details, or…? Scott smirked and stretched, tapping out a reply one line at a time. Scott: We’ve hung out a few more times. Fucked a few more times But more than that… he actually stays. He paused, watching the blinking cursor, then added: We still talk. We cook. He asks about my day. He hasn’t turned it into a “thing” — just… a connection. That doesn’t vanish the second we zip up. Lee’s reply came fast. Lee: 🥹 who is this and what has he done with my emotionally walled-off lion? Scott: Still here. Just didn’t expect any of this to feel this good. Honestly? It’s the most satisfying sex I’ve had. But even better — it’s not the only thing we do. Another ping. Lee: That’s because A) Jessie’s a good dude B) You needed something real and C) You clearly have a rat kink you’re not owning yet Scott snorted, rolling his eyes. Scott: Ok fine. I admit it. I’m a rodent slut. An absolute rat whore. An absolute cum dump for all of Muridae kind. Are you happy now? Lee: 😂 Yes!! Thank you. Also, just saying, I paved the way Jessie’s walking it He didn’t answer that one. Just leaned his head back and let the soft music play. The longer he sat with it, the clearer it became: he wasn’t just in a better mood these days — he felt lighter. Like he wasn’t carrying the weight of every encounter that ended in silence or disinterest. Scott hadn’t realized how deeply starved he was for connection until he addressed it. He didn’t know if he wanted to date Jessie or just keep being friends with benefits. He certainly wasn’t opposed to the idea, but he was in no hurry to try and force anything. And even if this thing fizzled out and didn’t work sexually, it was good to have another person to confide in. Scott resolved to never let himself go without those connections again. Either way, he looked forward to every time the rat visited. A knock at the door pulled him from his thoughts. Scott stood up, already smiling. He didn’t need to check. When he opened the door, Jessie stood there — a little flushed from the stairs, toolbox tucked under one arm, and a glass casserole dish cradled in the other, covered loosely in foil. “Hope I’m not interrupting,” he said. “Made too much again.” Scott stepped aside without hesitation. “Let me guess. Lasagna?” “Nope,” Jessie said with a small grin. “Tried something new. Rosemary chicken pot pie. Hope you’re not one of those people who hates peas.” Scott laughed. “If it’s from you, I’ll eat the peas. Even the weird mushy ones.” Jessie raised a brow, stepping inside. “That’s love.” Scott closed the door behind him and took the dish, letting the smell waft up — buttery crust, herby steam, something deeply comforting. “God,” he said, “you trying to ruin other men for me?” Jessie gave a modest shrug, but there was warmth behind it. “Just figured you could use something filling.” Scott smirked. “Damn right I could use some filling.” Jessie rolled his eyes, carried the pot pie to the counter, set it down, and turned back. The lion cleared his throat, “On a more serious note, I’ve been meaning to tell you,” His voice got a little softer. “I think I’m gonna stay.” Jessie tilted his head. “Stay?” “In the complex,” Scott clarified. He trailed off, then gestured vaguely between them. “There’s more important things than a bigger bathroom.” Jessie gave him a look. “My dick isn’t as important as your living space, dingus.” Scott scoffed. “Not that! I mean…ok a little bit of that…but more importantly, your friendship!” Jessie smiled slowly. “Oh, well….Glad to hear that.” They stood in the golden quiet a moment longer, like neither of them wanted to break it. Scott scratched the back of his neck. “You wanna stay for dinner?” Jessie nodded, gentle. “Yeah. I’d like that.” Scott turned to preheat the oven, and Jessie set down his tools by the door.