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Buckball

© Cederwyn Whitefurr

28th February, 2025

All Rights Reserved.

The locker room buzzed with the hum of excited chatter, a mix of frustration and adrenaline still hanging in the air after the nail-biting game. The Silver Pines had come so close to beating the Iron Hooves, but in the end, a single missed catch had tipped the scales in their rivals’ favour. The team crowded around, dissecting every move they’d made, but one pair of eyes wandered across the room.

Rowan sat a little off to the side, his doe-like features softening in the light as he listened to the others debate strategy. Alder stood at the centre of the group, effortlessly commanding attention, his broad shoulders and towering presence cutting through the tension. Rowan’s heart skipped a beat every time Alder’s deep voice resonated through the room, but the real reason Rowan couldn’t keep his gaze away was much more personal.

Every glance from Alder made his pulse quicken. The older buck’s steady confidence, his easygoing presence—everything about Alder set Rowan’s heart alight. But it was more than just the game. It was how Alder made everything feel right, even when the world seemed to tip out of balance.

But, as the team continued talking, Rowan’s gaze occasionally drifted to the other players moving about the locker room, some fresh from the showers, their bodies glistening with water, droplets catching the light. His eyes lingered for a moment on the muscular form of one of the other bucks, admiring the strong curve of his back and the way his toned muscles shifted with each movement. Rowan quickly looked away, a faint blush creeping to his cheeks. He’d never stray from Alder, but a little appreciation for the other bucks' forms wasn't something that bothered him. It wasn’t about desire—more like an unspoken recognition of strength, of beauty in a form that was, in many ways, familiar.

Alder caught his mate’s gaze from across the room, his lips curling into an easy smile, though his focus never strayed from the conversation. Rowan’s breath hitched, and he quickly turned his attention back to his lover. His shy smile tugged at the corners of his lips. The tension of the game was still there, but when it came to Alder, everything seemed softer.

Finally, as the team began breaking into smaller discussions, Rowan seized the opportunity. His feet moved before his mind fully caught up, and in the next moment, he was standing next to Alder in the quieter corner of the room. The hum of conversation faded behind them, leaving only the sharp scent of sweat and the warm tension between them.

“Hey, Alder…” Rowan whispered, his voice soft and a little hesitant. His eyes darted nervously, and he gently nudged Alder with his shoulder, the touch almost more of a lifeline than an invitation. “If we win in the finals...” he began, then leaned in closer, his breath warm against Alder’s ear, “You’ll get a special reward, just for you.”

Alder’s eyes darkened with intrigue, a playful glint flickering beneath the surface. He leaned down slightly, his ear catching Rowan’s whisper, the promise of something personal sparking between them.

“Mm... now that sounds tempting,” Alder murmured, his voice low and rich with both amusement and passion. There was a slight smirk curling his lips, but his eyes never left Rowan’s. “You’re making it hard to focus, you know that?”

Rowan’s cheeks flushed a deeper shade, and he shyly dropped his head, unable to hide the warmth that spread through him. “I mean it, though,” he said, his voice quieter, more earnest. “You deserve it. You’re… you're the best player we've got, Alder. You always make everything work, and I know you’ll lead us to victory.”

*

As the last of the team filtered out of the locker room, the energetic buzz from the game slowly faded. Rowan could feel the tension in the air lift, replaced by a comfortable quiet that only seemed to deepen once they were out in the parking lot. The air was cool against his skin, but the heat in his chest had nothing to do with the weather. His mind kept replaying the moment with Alder—the promise whispered between them, the soft brush of their bodies when he’d nudged Alder’s shoulder.

Without a word, they walked side by side toward their car, fingers instinctively brushing together before Alder’s hand found Rowan’s. The simple touch settled Rowan’s nerves in a way nothing else could. The car ride home was comfortable, the low hum of the engine in the background as they moved through the quiet streets.

*

The drive home was filled with a quiet comfort. As the car hummed along the roads, the soft glow of streetlights passing by, Rowan sat with his hands resting on his lap, heart still racing from the game—and from the lingering promise he had made to Alder. Each glance they exchanged in the car only deepened the anticipation. When they finally arrived at their apartment, the air felt different—charged, almost.

Once inside, the door clicked shut behind them, and Rowan moved toward the kitchen, settling into a familiar rhythm. He placed his bag down and began pulling out ingredients for dinner, trying to shake off the buzz of adrenaline. Alder, as always, was right behind him, leaning against the counter, eyes never straying far from Rowan’s movements.

“Let me help,” Alder said softly, though his gaze was intense, a knowing look in his eyes that made Rowan’s pulse quicken. But he didn’t press, letting Rowan take the lead, knowing the familiar comfort of being together in their shared space would soon relax the tension of the evening.

*

After dinner, the two of them sat together, side by side, at the kitchen table. The soft clink of silverware and the gentle sounds of the apartment were all that could be heard. There was an ease to it, but beneath that ease, a smouldering intensity still lingered. Rowan glanced at Alder, his breath catching in his throat when Alder’s gaze locked onto his.

“You know,” Alder began casually, though the teasing edge to his voice was unmistakable, “about that ‘special reward’ you promised me earlier…” His smirk deepened, and Rowan's breath hitched in his chest.

Rowan froze for a moment, feeling the heat rise in his face. “Alder…,” he started, his voice low and a little hesitant, but Alder cut him off with a devilish glint in his eyes.

Alder leaned back in his chair, stretching out slightly, his hands resting casually on the table. “I think you owe me,” he said, the words slow, deliberate, and heavy with meaning. “After all, you'll be facing two balls and a very stiff bat...”

Rowan's heart skipped a beat, and a flush flooded his cheeks as he realized exactly what Alder was implying. He quickly looked down, his inner ears turning a deep crimson, unable to hide the rush of heat spreading through him.

“Alder, you—” Rowan muttered, unable to form a coherent sentence as the teasing undertone of Alder’s words washed over him.

Alder’s smirk deepened, a gleam of amusement in his eyes. “I’m serious, Rowan. You think you can get away with a promise of a reward like that without a little ‘practice’ first?” His voice dropped low, a hint of heat creeping in, and the playful challenge in his eyes made Rowan squirm in his seat.

Rowan let out a shaky breath, his body heating up under Alder's gaze. “You’re impossible…” he murmured, but his voice wavered with the thrill that pulsed between them. The tension was palpable, thickening the air around them as Alder’s teasing words lingered in the space between them.

Alder chuckled softly, the sound low and satisfied, clearly enjoying the effect he had on Rowan. “Oh, Rowan,” he said, leaning forward just slightly, “trust me, you’ll enjoy this kind of practice. You’ll see.”

*

heir apartment was quiet now, the noise of the city outside fading as the door clicked shut behind them. Rowan and Alder moved toward the bedroom, their steps synchronised as if they had done this a thousand times before. But tonight felt different—there was a deeper connection between them, one that had been built on trust and shared moments.

Alder turned, his warm smile a familiar comfort as he took a step closer to Rowan. With a gentle tug, he pulled his mate toward the bed. The tension between them was palpable, charged with anticipation, but it wasn’t just the hunger of desire—it was the raw connection that had deepened in their time together.

Once in the bedroom, Alder’s hands moved with care to undress Rowan, his fingers brushing the younger buck’s skin, his touch tender but deliberate. With every piece of clothing that fell away, the air grew thicker, the anticipation mounting. Rowan’s breath hitched, but it was more than nervousness—it was the yearning to be closer, to surrender in the way only Alder could truly understand.

Rowan stood before Alder now, his body exposed in the soft glow of the lamp, the warmth of his fur visible against the dim light. His doe-like features were soft but vulnerable, his heart racing in his chest. Alder looked at him, his gaze lingering on every curve of his form, and Rowan’s breath caught in his throat.

Alder’s smile was soft, loving, and filled with warmth. “You’re perfect,” he whispered, reaching out to guide Rowan to his knees before him. His hands rested gently on Rowan’s shoulders, guiding him closer, their faces only inches apart. There was a quiet moment, their gazes locking in mutual understanding.

Rowan’s heart pounded as he moved toward Alder, his lips brushing against the older buck’s in a soft, searching kiss. It wasn’t hurried, no, but tender—like a question waiting for an answer. When they pulled apart, Rowan’s voice was quiet, his words filled with reverence and love.

“Let me please you, Alder,” he whispered, his voice low, almost shy but full of something else—a deep affection, a desire to share everything with the one he loved.

Alder's breath caught in his throat, and for a brief moment, his playful smirk softened into something more sincere, more affectionate. “You don’t have to ask,” Alder murmured, his voice thick with emotion. “I trust you with everything.”

Rowan nodded, his hands moving with purpose as they undid Alder’s pants, his touch reverent as he slowly freed the older buck. The moment was intimate, not just for the way their bodies were aligning but for the way Rowan handled Alder’s form with such care, almost as though he were honouring the very essence of the older buck.

As Rowan’s lips moved to Alder’s body, the older buck’s breath quickened, his hands gently threading through Rowan’s fur. The younger buck’s movements were slow, careful, his lips and tongue exploring with a quiet reverence. He moved with purpose, focusing on Alder’s pleasure, his love for the older buck infusing every motion. Alder’s grip tightened, but he made no move to rush Rowan. The connection between them, the love they shared, made the moment even more meaningful.

As Rowan’s touch grew firmer, Alder couldn’t hold back the groan that slipped from his lips. His hands moved to Rowan’s head, gently guiding him while still allowing him the freedom to move as he wished. The older buck’s breathing grew labored, but it wasn’t just the physical pleasure that caused it. No, it was the way Rowan’s care and affection were woven into every action.

Alder’s body trembled with the intensity of the connection, and when he finally reached the peak, the release wasn’t just physical—it was an emotional surrender as well. “Rowan…” Alder’s voice was breathless, his hands gently cupping Rowan’s face as he leaned down and kissed him on the forehead, to show him how much he meant.

Rowan looked up at him, his eyes full of devotion and affection. His breath was shaky, but there was no hesitation in his movements as he wiped his mouth gently with the back of his hand. He smiled, shy but full of love.

Alder pulled him close, wiping Rowan’s muzzle with a soft cloth, the gesture full of tenderness. “You’ve given me everything,” Alder murmured, his voice thick with emotion.

Rowan smiled softly, still feeling the warmth of their connection. “I just wanted to make you feel good,” he replied quietly, his gaze meeting Alder’s with trust in his eyes.

Alder’s hand moved to Rowan’s cheek, brushing his thumb across the soft fur. “You’ve done so much more than that. You’ve given me all of you,” he said, his voice full of reverence.

For a few moments, they simply held each other, savoring the closeness, the shared silence of the room. But there was still something in the air—an unspoken desire, a hunger that wasn’t fully satisfied.

Alder’s voice broke the silence, low and teasing. “You’re so beautiful, Rowan. Are you ready for me to make you mine?”

Rowan’s breath hitched in his chest, his heart fluttering in response to the question. The tenderness in Alder’s voice, the way he held him—there was nothing else he wanted more than to be with Alder in this way. “I’m ready,” Rowan whispered, his voice filled with trust and love.

The air between them was charged, electric with the intensity of their connection, and Alder could feel his pulse quicken as Rowan looked up at him, trust and devotion shining in his doe-like eyes. It wasn’t just about the physical act; it was about giving themselves to each other completely, about sharing their love in the most intimate of ways.

Alder’s breath was steady, but his hands trembled ever so slightly as he reached for the small vial of cervid-friendly lube he kept on the bedside table. The warm, smooth liquid was designed for comfort, to enhance the closeness they shared and make the moment as tender as possible. He had always been cautious, always ensuring their connection was as safe and pleasurable as it could be. Rowan had never asked for this level of care, but Alder always gave it willingly—because it mattered.

He poured a generous amount into his hand, warming it slightly before spreading it carefully on his fingers. Rowan’s eyes fluttered shut at the touch, a soft breath escaping his lips as Alder gently applied the lube to him. The moment was slow and tender, filled with more than just physical preparation. Alder made sure Rowan felt every moment of care, every brush of his touch, each movement designed to reassure him, to remind him of how deeply he was loved.

With a soft sigh, Rowan reached up, his hands resting on Alder’s chest, pulling him closer. There was no urgency between them, just the steady rhythm of shared affection and desire. Alder kissed Rowan’s forehead, his hands trembling slightly, but his heart filled with the warmth of his mate’s love.

When the time came, Alder gently guided Rowan to lie back on the bed, his eyes never leaving the younger buck’s face. His fingers caressed Rowan’s body with reverence, and the older buck positioned himself slowly, mindful of Rowan’s comfort.

Rowan’s breath hitched as Alder positioned himself above him, the slick, warm sensation of the lube making the process smooth and easy. The moment their bodies aligned, Rowan’s heart raced in anticipation, but there was no fear in his gaze—only trust. Alder looked down at him, his expression tender but filled with something deeper, something more primal, as he gently entered Rowan.

There was a sharp intake of breath, and for a moment, the world seemed to stand still. Alder’s movements were slow, deliberate, ensuring Rowan felt no discomfort. He leaned down, kissing Rowan softly, his lips brushing the younger buck’s as they began to move together. The lube worked as it should, making each movement more fluid, more intimate.

Alder’s hands moved to steady himself, his chest pressed against Rowan’s, and the older buck’s breath quickened as he adjusted his rhythm, savoring each moment. Rowan responded in kind, his hands gently gripping Alder’s shoulders, urging him on with quiet, almost reverent motions.

The tenderness of the moment was clear, each thrust measured, filled with love and care. It wasn’t about urgency; it wasn’t about simply reaching the end. It was about them coming together in this sacred space, in a union built on respect and devotion. Alder’s movements became more instinctive as the moment stretched on, each pulse of movement carrying the weight of their shared connection.

Rowan’s hands gripped Alder’s shoulders, pulling him closer, urging him on, but there was no rush. This wasn’t about urgency; this was about connection—about Alder taking Rowan in the way he always wanted to, about Rowan giving himself to Alder completely.

The rhythm between them built slowly, the intensity rising as they moved together. It wasn’t just the physical—every kiss, every touch, every shift of their bodies was laden with love and affection. When they finally reached the peak, it wasn’t just the release of physical pleasure—it was the culmination of everything they had shared.

Alder held Rowan close, his breath ragged, his heart pounding as he whispered his name with affection. “I’m yours, Rowan,” he murmured, his voice thick with emotion.

Rowan’s breath was shaky as he replied, his voice full of devotion, “And I’m yours, Alder.”

When the climax came, it was slow, almost drawn out in its intensity. Alder buried his face in Rowan’s neck, his body trembling as he whispered his name, his love, his devotion to the younger buck.

In the aftermath, they lay together, entwined in the warmth of each other’s embrace, the world outside forgotten. Alder kissed Rowan’s forehead gently, his heart still racing, but at peace with the connection they had shared.

Rowan's nostrils wrinkled slightly, and he playfully nuzzled Alder's cheek. "You reek of musk. You sure it's not the seasonal rut yet?"

Alder’s gentle chuckle rumbled deep in his chest, a sound that made Rowan’s pulse quicken all over again. The older buck rose, his body moving with a quiet grace, and extended a hand toward his equally musky-scented mate. “Then come,” Alder murmured with a teasing glint in his eyes, “we’ll take care of that little problem... and maybe make a few more?”

Rowan’s eyes widened in surprise, and his ears flicked downward, unable to hide the flush that painted his inner ears a deep crimson. His heart raced, the teasing comment leaving him both flustered and deeply amused. He shifted, trying to steady himself, but the warmth of Alder’s presence was impossible to escape.

*

The water continued to flow around them, the soft sound of it filling the air as Alder held Rowan close. The younger buck’s body was angled just right, his paws pressed firmly against the soapy glass, supporting himself as he leaned forward, his belly facing the smooth, cool surface. Alder positioned himself behind him, their bodies slick with steam, the heat of the water blending with the heat of their connection. The space between them seemed to hum with quiet intensity.

Alder’s hands slid down Rowan’s back, careful but firm, coaxing him closer, the older buck’s presence steadying Rowan as the younger buck braced against the glass. With a soft press of his body, Alder aligned them, the warmth of his form filling Rowan as he sheathed himself fully inside.

“I’ve got you,” Alder whispered, his voice low and steady as he gently pulled Rowan back toward him, his hands sliding to Rowan’s hips, holding him steady. They paused for a moment, letting the closeness stretch out, giving Rowan time to adjust to the depth of their connection. The pressure of Alder’s body was overwhelming in the best way, but Rowan felt the moment slow as they both breathed in sync.

“Just relax,” Alder murmured. “I’m here.”

Rowan let out a quiet gasp, the feeling of Alder’s presence deep inside him overwhelming, his pulse quickening. His body trembled, but it wasn’t just the physical sensation—it was the trust that had built between them, the bond that had drawn them so close. With his paws pressed against the soapy glass, he could feel Alder’s warmth radiating behind him, his chest tight as they shared the moment.

A soft giggle escaped Rowan’s lips, nerves and arousal mixing as he glanced back over his shoulder, his breath hitching. “Are you sure your father wasn’t an elk?”

Alder paused for a heartbeat, caught off guard by the unexpected humor, and a soft chuckle rumbled in his chest. “I think that’s the second time you’ve said that. But no, he wasn’t. You sure do have a thing for elk, though,” Alder teased, his tone warm with affection.

Rowan let out a breathless laugh, the tension in his body easing with the playful moment. “Well, for a whitetail, you really do have it where it counts.”

Alder grinned, his heart light, though he remained steady behind Rowan. “Guess I’ll take that as a compliment,” he murmured, pressing a soft kiss to the younger buck’s neck.

The lighthearted moment faded, leaving only the intimate connection between them. Alder’s hands slid from Rowan’s hips, gently caressing the younger buck’s sheath, urging his body to respond to the tender touch. Rowan’s breath caught, his body responding instantly to Alder’s careful strokes, the gentle pressure coaxing him toward arousal.

With deliberate movements, Alder drew Rowan’s arousal out slowly, savoring each moment as the younger buck’s breath quickened. Every caress was filled with affection, the tenderness in Alder’s touch matching the deep affection he felt. “You’re beautiful, Rowan. So perfect for me,” Alder’s voice was low, the words coming like a vow in the stillness of the shower.

Rowan’s chest tightened at the words, grounding him in the moment. His body responded to Alder’s careful touch, the slow pull of his sheath bringing him fully to life. His breath quickened, his paws clutching the glass harder as Alder’s strokes became more purposeful.

“Let go for me,” Alder whispered, his voice thick with warmth and encouragement. “I want to see you.”

Rowan’s heart raced as he focused entirely on the sensation of Alder’s hand on him, on the warmth of Alder behind him, and the intimate bond between them. The world outside seemed to fade, leaving only the feeling of Alder’s touch, of their shared trust, and Rowan let himself surrender to it. The moment stretched out, building, until finally, Rowan’s body seized, his muscles tightening as pleasure coursed through him in waves.

He gasped, the release coming with a soft cry, his body trembling as he collapsed back against Alder’s chest. Alder held him close, his breath warm against Rowan’s skin, continuing to caress him gently through the aftershocks of his climax.

“That’s it,” Alder murmured, pressing a kiss to the side of Rowan’s neck, his hands gentle and soothing as they stroked through Rowan’s fur. “You’re everything I’ve ever wanted.”

Rowan laughed softly, breathless, as he nuzzled Alder’s neck, his body still trembling. “I didn’t even realise... how much I needed that.”

Alder’s hands ran through Rowan’s fur, calm and loving. “I’ll always give you what you need,” he promised, his voice thick with affection. “Always.”

They stood there together, the water flowing over them, their bodies wrapped in the quiet intimacy of the moment. It wasn’t just about the release—it was about the bond they shared, the trust and affection that would stay with them long after the steam had faded.

*

A month had passed since their quiet, intimate moment—time enough for the air to cool and the weight of the past to settle. But as the sun began to set on the day of the Buckball game, the heat in Rowan’s chest had not waned. The nerves, the pressure, the deep fear of failure—all of it had been building inside him since the last game.

He was sitting in the dugout now, his legs jittering beneath him, his glove clasped tightly in his hands. He had failed them before—he had failed the team—and now, here he was again, surrounded by the laughter and camaraderie of his teammates. But it felt as if every eye was on him, judging him. The thought of disappointing them again was like a heavy weight on his chest, one that he couldn't shake, no matter how many times he tried to breathe through it.

Alder stood at the front of the dugout, tall and confident, the captain of the Silver Ferns, his voice carrying with the authority and ease that came with his position. He was speaking to the team, rallying them, giving them the pep talk they needed before taking the field. But to Rowan, it felt distant. He couldn’t focus on anything other than the steady thrum of his heartbeat and the tightness in his hands. Every time he closed his eyes, the weight of his previous mistake was right there, suffocating him.

Alder, sensing the unease emanating from Rowan, glanced over at him with a knowing look. His lips twitched into a soft smile, but it didn’t go unnoticed by the rest of the team, who were all too eager to notice. Alder excused himself from the team huddle and walked over to the dugout where Rowan sat, his posture tense and rigid, his muzzle lowered slightly.

"Hey, hey," Alder's voice was soft, gentle, though there was a firmness to it. He knelt beside Rowan, his hand resting lightly on his shoulder. "You’re going to be fine. We’re all counting on you, yes. But you’re part of this team. You don’t have to do it alone. Just play your best, and that’s all we ask.”

Rowan's ears flicked nervously, and he bit his lip, still not lifting his gaze. He knew Alder was trying to comfort him, but the anxiety remained, swirling inside him. “I know,” he murmured, his voice tight. “But last time... I let everyone down. I couldn’t... I couldn’t even catch the ball.”

Alder’s hand gently turned Rowan’s head so that their gazes met, his brown eyes full of understanding. “You’re not defined by one mistake, Rowan. We all make them. But you’ve worked hard, and I trust you. Trust yourself.” His voice was low and reassuring, a steady presence that grounded Rowan, even if just a little.

Before Rowan could respond, Alder’s lips curled into a grin. He stood up and, without warning, pulled Rowan into his arms, cradling his face with both hands. The team, still gathered nearby, fell quiet at the sudden, affectionate gesture. Then, without hesitation, Alder kissed Rowan—deep, passionate, and completely in front of everyone.

The sound of the team’s laughter and playful jeers erupted almost instantly, some calling out teasing comments like, “Get a room!” or “Save it for after the game!” But the noise faded to background chatter as Rowan stood frozen, his entire body flushing bright red, his inner ears burning with the heat of Alder’s kiss. When Alder pulled away, Rowan’s eyes were wide, and his breath was a little uneven.

Alder, grinning from ear to ear, rested his forehead gently against Rowan’s. “There. You’re not alone, remember? Now, let’s go show them what the Silver Ferns can do.” His words were a promise, not just of support, but of unwavering belief in Rowan.

Rowan’s face remained a deep crimson, and though the teasing from the team hadn’t stopped, he couldn’t help but feel lighter, the weight on his chest lifting a little. He chuckled nervously, glancing at the others, then at Alder. “You know how to make a guy blush, huh?”

Alder just winked. “I aim to please.”

The teasing and laughter continued, but the tension in Rowan's chest had loosened. As the rest of the team gathered their equipment and prepared to take the field, Rowan stood up, his posture a little less tense, his heart still racing but with excitement rather than fear. Alder’s confidence was contagious, and Rowan felt it begin to seep into his bones.

Together, they walked to the field, side by side, ready for the game. The Silver Ferns were a team, a family—and no matter what happened on the field, they would face it together.

*

It had come to this—the bases were loaded, and the tension in the crowd was electric. Alder was the pitcher.

Two strikes.

Rowan’s heart leapt into his mouth, and he couldn’t help it. The weight of the moment bore down on him, and every part of him focused on what was happening. He had failed them before. He couldn’t let that happen again.

Then came the crack.

The sound of the bat striking the ball was like a rifle shot, sending a rush of cold dread through Rowan’s spine. His eyes widened in terror as he watched the ball arc toward the stands.

He did the only thing he was good at.

He ran.

With a titanic leap, Rowan launched himself into the air, his paws stretched out, slamming into the padding at the edge of the field. He didn’t even register the impact, his entire body a blur of motion. He fell hard to the ground, breathless, gasping for air as his muscles screamed in protest. It was a moment before his brain finally caught up with the rush of adrenaline, his focus slowly shifting from the pain of the fall to the overwhelming noise of the crowd.

The cheers, the screams, the celebrations. His teammates were already sprinting toward him, their voices rising in excitement, but Rowan remained still for a moment, processing what had just happened.

Then, his gaze dropped to his glove.

His heart skipped a beat.

There, nestled carefully inside his glove, was the ball.

He had caught it. He had caught it.

The roar of the crowd and the cheers of his teammates all blurred into a single sound as Rowan sat there in disbelief, staring at the ball, still held safely in his glove. The weight of the moment slammed into him, and his body, still reeling from the leap, suddenly went weak. He’d saved them.

“Did it!” one of his teammates shouted, already pulling him to his feet.

Alder appeared beside him, grinning with pride, his eyes alight with admiration. “You did it, Rowan.”

Rowan blinked at him, still breathless, still trying to process what had just happened. “I... I can’t believe it. I really did it.”

Alder’s grin only widened, his gaze filled with affection as he gently cupped Rowan’s face. “I told you I had faith in you, didn’t I?”

Rowan chuckled breathlessly, his cheeks flushing as the rush of adrenaline began to fade. The team crowded around him, their laughter and shouts echoing around them, but Rowan’s attention remained on the ball in his glove. It wasn’t just the catch—it was everything. The doubts, the fear of failure, all of it had melted away.

Alder reached down and kissed him on the forehead—quick but full of meaning, an unspoken acknowledgement of everything Rowan had overcome, both in the game and in his own heart.

Rowan's eyes twinkled with mischief as he glanced at Alder, finally feeling the relief flood his system. “Well, look at that. Guess you were right after all.”

Alder chuckled softly, his paws resting on Rowan's shoulders. "Told you," he said, a wink in his eye.

Rowan, now laughing and feeling lighter than he had in days, handed the ball to Alder. “You were right... but I still think I’m pretty,” he teased.

The team erupted into cheers again, lifting Rowan into the air, the weight of his past failures finally forgotten. In that moment, the only thing that mattered was the catch, the victory, and the overwhelming feeling that he had just proved to himself—and to everyone—that he was capable of greatness.

And with Alder standing at his side, Rowan knew that he was ready for whatever came next.

*

The atmosphere was electric. The crowd erupted in cheers, the sound of clapping and hollers drowning out everything else as Alder stood tall, the trophy raised high above his head, his antlers catching the light. The Silver Ferns surrounded him, their laughter and joy filling the air, their celebrations just beginning. But amid the chaos, Rowan stood off to the side, heart still pounding from his earlier play, the adrenaline still surging through his veins.

A smirk tugged at the edges of Rowan's lips. He watched Alder, surrounded by his teammates, smiling, glowing with the victory he had earned. His chest swelled with pride. But there was something more he wanted to do, something he had promised.

Without saying a word, Rowan slowly dropped to his knees, his movements deliberate, controlled. The crowd around them barely noticed at first, as their attention remained on Alder, but a few started to murmur, their eyes darting to the odd behaviour. In one swift motion, Rowan’s hands moved to Alder’s waist, fingers brushing his pants, the crowd’s murmurs rising as curiosity bubbled through the air.

Alder’s face shifted from elation to bewilderment, his eyes widening as he glanced down at Rowan. His muzzle parted in surprise, and his heart skipped a beat—he hadn't expected this. A rush of emotions flooded through him, a mix of awe, confusion, and something much deeper—Rowan's silent, intimate gesture that caught him completely off guard. The crowd seemed to hold its breath for a moment.

Rowan’s expression was serious, but his hands moved with a practiced ease, cupping Alder’s groin with gentle, deliberate care. The unexpected gesture left Alder frozen, caught in the shock of it, as the world seemed to pause. His teammates had all gone silent now, watching with wide eyes as the scene unfolded, some chuckling, others simply unsure of how to react. The camera flashes started again, but this time, the focus was entirely on Alder’s stunned expression.

The unexpected gesture left Alder frozen, caught in the shock of it, as the world seemed to pause. His teammates had all gone silent now, watching with wide eyes as the scene unfolded, some chuckling, others simply unsure of how to react. The camera flashes started again, but this time, the focus was entirely on Alder’s stunned expression.

His eyes were still wide, pupils dilated in disbelief as the weight of the moment settled in. The shock was palpable, radiating off him in waves. His muzzle hung open, breath catching in his throat, his body locked in place as he tried—unsuccessfully—to make sense of the unexpected attention.

The laughter around him seemed distant, almost muffled, as he stood there, his head slightly lowered, eyes still locked on Rowan with a mix of disbelief and something deeper. His teammates couldn’t help but exchange glances, a few stifling chuckles at the sight of the usually composed Alder reduced to this, caught in the midst of his own surprise.

In the blink of an eye, everything around him seemed to vanish, leaving only the rawness of the moment—his confusion, his vulnerability, and his unwavering focus on the one who had put him in this state.

Alder, still in shock, stood still, feeling Rowan’s touch in ways he hadn’t anticipated. His body betrayed him, a mix of surprise, affection, and something else stirring deep within him. His head lowered, his eyes not leaving Rowan, the surprise written across his face, captured perfectly by the photographers who surrounded them.

Rowan, however, remained focused, his smile widening as he continued. He wasn’t concerned with the reactions from the team or the crowd. This wasn’t for anyone else—it was for Alder, a public reward for all the trust and care he’d given him. His actions spoke louder than words could ever express, and he was happy to let them all see.

After a long moment, Rowan pulled back slightly, meeting Alder’s gaze with a soft smile, the connection between them growing even more profound in that instant. Alder’s eyes widened, his lips curled, and he began to tremble.

He fought desperately to hold himself together, but the sensations were overwhelming, each pulse of energy pushing him further into vulnerability. The noise around them seemed to fade as he locked eyes with Rowan, seeing that mischievous smirk, full of love and intent.

Alder’s breath came in shallow gasps as he tried to focus, but the pleasure seemed to rise within him, undeniable. His body betrayed him despite his efforts to hold back.

Rowan, ever the attentive lover, adjusted his movements, knowing just what to do to break Alder’s control. Alder’s hand trembled as he gripped the trophy, barely able to keep his composure. His teammates, now watching with open amusement, seemed to take delight in the unfolding spectacle.

Rowan pulled back just slightly, eyes meeting Alder’s with an expression that sent a fresh wave of heat rushing through him. Alder’s muzzle crinkled, his whole body shuddering as a final wave of sensation overcame him.

Around them, the team’s laughter rang out, though beneath it, the unspoken connection between the two of them held firm. Alder, still flushed, looked to Rowan, both of them sharing that moment of unexpected intimacy, surrounded by the laughter and chaos.

*

Back in the locker room, things had finally settled down. Alder was flushed, both embarrassed and bemused by Rowan's unexpected display of affection. He pinned his mate against the lockers, adopting a stern yet frustrated look, their noses just inches apart. Rowan gazed up at him, eyes wide and innocent, but that mischievous smirk slowly spread across his face. With a swift motion, he flicked his tongue out and brushed it lightly across Alder’s cheek.

Alder’s voice was quiet, barely a whisper, “What am I going to do with you…”

Rowan’s smirk stretched from ear to ear. “Marry me?” he asked, his voice teasing yet sincere.

The moment hung in the air, thick with the shared history between them. Without a word, Alder dropped to one knee in front of his mate. He reached for Rowan’s paws, clasping them gently in his own, looking up at him with a mixture of admiration and love.

“Rowan,” Alder began, the sincerity in his tone making the room fall silent. “Would you do me the honour…”

Rowan’s face flushed with both surprise and joy. He grabbed Alder’s antlers and gently pulled him closer, pressing Alder's forehead against his belly “I never thought you’d ask…” he whispered, his voice soft but full of emotion. “Yes, yes I will.”

The team, who had been watching with amused expressions, erupted into cheers and applause. The room buzzed with excitement, the Silver Ferns celebrating yet another victory—not just in the game but in this unexpected and beautiful moment of union.

*

Later, in the quiet of the locker room, Alder sat naked on the bench, drying off with a towel. His fur was damp from the shower, but his eyes glimmered with something deeper than exhaustion—contentment, affection, and the unmistakable warmth of shared victory. He glanced over at Rowan, who stood nearby, casually admiring Alder's form, his expression a mix of love and bemusement reflected in his warm, brown eyes.

Rowan's face was flushed, a mix of satisfaction and pride filling him. The team had left, the locker room now their private space, and the echoes of laughter and teasing from moments ago faded. Alder, still in disbelief, reached out, pulling Rowan into a tight embrace. Their laughter lingered, the sound soft and full of affection.

"You always know how to surprise me, don't you?" Alder murmured, his voice warm and full of affection.

Rowan smirked, pressing a soft kiss to Alder's cheek. "Only for you, my love."

The trophy, now forgotten, sat unattended on the bench, the noise of the world outside seeming distant. It was just the two of them, the rush of the game and celebration fading into the quiet hum of the moment. Naked, fresh from their shower, they were now left to themselves, no words needed. Their bond, their connection, went beyond what the world saw, and for once, that was enough.

-END