Tender Loving Care {Sam}

[Dominic Salvatore]

Friday 23rd April, 2010

Dom had been out of the hospital for a week and it was the end of the first official week of Sam looking after him as he recovered. By the time he had left the hospital Dom was already feeling a good bit stronger but he had been advised by the doctor not to do anything over strenuous for at least a month while his body continued to accept the new kidney and recover properly. Dom knew that he would have had to take time off work and had gotten in touch with his manager right away to explain the situation. Of course his manager was extremely understandable knowing full well what Dom had gone through and told him to take all the time he needed. Well it was going to take near on a month to recover fully and then he had the wedding planned with Sam and the honeymoon after, so in total Dom would have been away from work for about two months and the funny thing was he wasn’t too bothered about it. Or maybe a part of him was, in fact it was one of the things he felt that he needed to talk to Sam about today at some point as he felt as if he was in a bit of turmoil over a decision he wasn’t sure whether to make or not.

It was mid morning and Dom had been pretty much tossing and turning all night because his head was running in overtime and he sure hoped that he hadn’t kept Sam awake with it. He felt as if he hadn’t had much sleep and as he stretched his arms out and yawned he knew he hadn’t had enough sleep and probably should close his eyes and rest some more but knowing that would mean less time to look at Sam he forced himself to waken and sat up in the bed slowly. Even after two weeks the wound area was still tender but Dom put that down to the stitches being removed the day before. He had thought it was too soon but apparently they are removed between ten to fourteen days and they felt on his check up yesterday that they could remove them. So he was probably slightly sorer today than he had been and that may have contributed to his disturbed sleep the night before.

He hadn’t been bothering with his makeup at all while recovering basically because he didn’t have the energy for it and every time he looked in the mirror he couldn’t help but giggle a little thinking how alike his twin he was without it on. Sam had obviously been awake before him as he wasn’t in the bed at that moment and as he laid his head back on the headboard willing himself to stay awake the bedroom door opened and he turned to see Sam and he rubbed at his eyes slightly before giving him a smile. He hoped that the tiredness wouldn’t show too much as he felt that it would worry Sam but then if he had kept Sam awake last night he would probably already know that he had a restless night anyway. Dom then spoke to Sam saying, “Good morning my darling Prince.” He then tried to move again slightly holding the area that the stitches had just been removed from and slowly swung his legs round off the bed and onto the floor.

Dom reached for his black satin robe making to put it on and immediately winced, forgetting that there were still certain things he couldn’t do without help and as much as he loved having Sam around to help with those things it irritated the hell out of him because he just wanted to be able to do it himself. He gave Sam a weak smile as he just let it fall to the floor knowing that Sam would firstly tell him off for not waiting and then helping him into it. “When I’m freshened up today Sam my darling, there’s something I need to talk to you about. It’s been praying on my mind heavily the past couple of days and nights and if I don’t talk to you about it I fear that it may knock me back. I’ve spoken to Stacey about it already, well one of a few things, but you don’t have to worry about most of it as talking to Stacey helped, but this one, this one I needed your input too because it would affect you and us as a family.” Dom explained knowing that Sam would be intrigued now wondering what it was that was obviously on Dom’s mind that he wanted to talk about.

[Samuel Carhill]

Sam had been up for a good two hours, just generally tidying up the house, while Dom slept. He let him do this so that he could just continue to rest up. Sam had been told by the doctors what he had to do in order to keep the area dry, and also ways of helping Dom in a few different ways to help with his recovery. He had taken in all information, and any written information also to help along the way. Sam had taken a month off of work, and the principal was very understanding, and gave him six weeks off, which Sam was happy and thankful for. So he had still five weeks to go, as he took the time off once Dom came home from hospital.

During the night, Sam had felt the bed move a few times, and woke about three times to see Dom tossing and turning in his sleep. He wanted to wake him to make sure he was okay, but felt he didn't want to do that. Sam had always gone back to sleep, but towards the end, just decided to get up. As it was now mid morning, Sam got some things ready for Dom to eat when he woke. He put the finishing touches, and headed into the bedroom with a tray which held orange juice, toast, jam on the side, and small variety of fruit cut up in a small bowl. Sam knew that he was probably just doing a tad too much, but he wanted for Dom to rest and just get better. And do as less as he could do.

Sam slowly pushed the door open with his shoulder, and when he saw that Dom was awake and sitting up, he gave dom a bright smile. Dom then said good morning, calling him by his nickname, which made Sam smile all the more. "Good morning to you too Sweetie." Sam moved forward as Dom moved his legs around to the side of the bed. He also saw him holding his side, "How is it this morning? I did notice that you had some disturbed sleep last night. You should have woken me if it was giving you trouble." Sam slowly put the tray on the bed, and went over to Dom.

Dom was obviously trying to put on his robe, but wasn't very successful. Sam shook his head, and reached for the robe on the floor. "Dom, you need to take it easy. Let me." He held out one sleeve of the robe, and once Dom put his arm through, Sam moved around, and then held the other sleeve out, and once Dom put his other arm through, Sam wrapped it around Dom, doing up the tie. Dom then spoke, and Sam nodded at the first bit. He understood that Stacey was his best friend, and in no way was he jealous, but he wished that Dom would speak to him about things as well, instead of holding it back. "Okay." Sam then took Dom's hand. "But you know that you can talk to me about anything, instead of making you sick with worry. It won't do you any good right now." Sam gave him a weak smile. "Well if you want to talk to me about it while you have some of this food, or it can wait till I can help you freshen up."

[Dominic Salvatore]

When Sam had come into the room with breakfast on a tray he had seen the smile that Sam gave him and Dom returned it with a bright one of his own despite the fact that he felt as if he was going through turmoil in his mind right then. When Dom had greeted Sam using his nickname on him he saw Sam smile all the more which made Dom grin with his raised eyebrow. Sam soon greeted him back calling him by his own nickname for him and Dom felt his face blush ever so slightly. Dom loved Sam calling him Sweetie but it definitely got him going probably because it brought him back to the first day they had met and how he had spoken of taking sugar in his coffee and Sam had said that it just added to the sweetness he already had. They had come so far in such a short space of time and now here was Sam looking after him it was definitely a sign of true love in Dom’s eyes.

As Dom had moved to swing his legs round so that his feet would be on the floor he had held onto his side as it was feeling a bit tender which was only natural. Sam had obviously noticed him holding onto it and he soon asked him how it was and added more which made Dom know that he had been aware of his bad night. Dom shook his head a little, “It’s a bit tender my darling but I’m putting it down to the fact that stitches were removed yesterday. But it wasn’t the wound that caused me to have a disturbed sleep, or maybe it didn’t help the situation but mostly I couldn’t sleep too good because I was over thinking some things.” Dom explained and gave Sam a weak smile, “Sorry if I kept you awake though, that wasn’t my intention.” He added and watched as Sam put the breakfast tray onto the bed and then came toward him.

Dom knew that when he had tried to put his robe on that Sam would tell him off for not waiting and he did. He watched as Sam shook his head and then told him that he had to take it easy and to let him do it. Dom put his hands up to his head and ran them through his hair slightly, “I know, I know, it’s just frustrating that I can’t seem to do the simplest things just now. I’m sorry I know that I want to be strong for our wedding.” Dom said and gave Sam a weak smile. He wanted to marry Sam so much and in a way it was his idea for them to get married sooner than later so the last thing he wanted to do was to let them both down by not doing as he was told and taking longer to recover. Sam then began to help him with the robe and once he had one arm in Sam went round to the other side and Dom slipped his other arm in. Sam then pulled it around him and tied it and Dom gave him a smile. “Thanks my darling.”

Dom had then said he wanted to speak to Sam once he was freshened up. He watched as Sam nodded his head but then Dom had added more to what he said. Sam replied saying okay and then he felt him take his hand and Sam soon added that he knew he could talk to him too instead of getting sick with worry. Dom knew that it wouldn’t do him any good and he caressed the back of Sam’s hand with his thumb as he looked down a little and sighed. “I know that my darling but I just didn’t think you would want me bringing a certain person’s name up which was why I spoke to Stace about it.” Dom said and then looked slowly back up at Sam wondering how his facial expression was going to be as Sam would now know too well he was referring to Simon.

Oh he wasn’t about to forget that it was Simon who caused all of this but a part of him was aching to forgive him because the guy had obviously done it during a psychotic turn through his obvious psychological problem whatever that was. Dom wanted to know why he couldn’t have worked it out at the time when there was this sudden change in Simon’s personality but he put it down to being too focused on his career thus missing the real signs and so he was blaming himself a little feeling that he could have prevented all of this. Not that he was thinking if he had realised Simon’s problems that he wanted to be with him, no that was most definitely buried, he was in love with Sam now but he just felt that he could have talked Simon into getting help months, years ago in fact.

Sam soon spoke again saying he could talk about it while he ate some of the food or he could wait until he had helped him freshen up. Well Sam had gone to a lot of trouble getting the breakfast ready it wasn’t going to be very kind of Dom to leave it to get freshened up. “I’ll talk about it while I eat because this looks good my darling and don’t want it going to waste, thank you.” Dom picked up the glass with the orange juice and took a sip before taking the toast adding the jam and began to eat it slowly. After taking a few mouthfuls of the toast he took another sip of the juice and thought he might as well tell Sam everything, including what he had spoken to Stacey about. “I promise to talk to you more about things in future and I’m sorry if you’ve ever felt shut out my darling.” Dom began and took another bite of the toast followed by some of the juice.

“One of the things is such a stupid and trivial thing to have thought but once I found out about the death of Lianda’s husband Tony I couldn’t help but wonder if he was taken in my place, but before I even spoke to Stace I knew that I was stupid for thinking like that because either way it would have caused total devastation on the family and if it had been me, well...” He trailed off and took Sam’s hand and gave it a gentle squeeze followed by a small smile knowing that he didn’t want to really talk like that.

The one big thing that was praying heavy on Dom’s mind he hadn’t brought up yet but didn’t want to overwhelm Sam with everything at once until he was able to take in what he had already spoken about so far. He still didn’t know whether to bring up the topic of Simon again or just leave it be, after all despite the incident being caused by a psychological problem it didn’t change the fact that he had stabbed Dom and almost killed him and that really shouldn’t be something you should forgive easily but Dom was such a kind hearted soul that he couldn’t stop thinking like that.

[Samuel Carhill]

When Sam had asked Dom how it was, and commented on his sleeping, Dom replied. He nodded, thinking that it could have been what Dom said it was. Then Sam listened more, and wondered what could be possibly making Dom have such a restless night. He tilted his head every so slightly, thinking about what Dom could be thinking about. Maybe it was the wedding, and all the prep work they would have to do. Surely that wasn't it, as really they were talking about it if and when they could together.

Sam shook his head, when Dom then apologised if he kept him awake, as it wasn't his intention. Sam shook his head. "No need to apologise. I might have only woken once, maybe twice, but I pretty much went back to sleep. I hoped that if you had needed me, you would have woken me up anyway." He smiled at Dom, then sighed, still wondering what was prying on Dom's mind.

Sam had then told Dom that he had to take it easy, after he tried to put on his own robe, and let him doing it. He watched Dom put his hands up on his head, and Sam just shook his head as Dom spoke. Sam placed a hand on Dom's arm, and looked at him. "I know Sweetie, but yes you need to be strong enough for our special day." Sam gave him a warm smile, and then helped him on with his robe. Once it was on, Dom thanked Sam, and Sam just smiled warmly at him again. "No worries. Anything for you." He then kissed Dom on the cheek.

Sam had put foreward his concerns to Dom about talking to him instead of getting sick with worry. He listened to what Dom had to say, and nodded, then felt his face fall at the mention of Simon, but not with his name, just knowing who Dom was talking about. "Oh..." Sam looked away, and bit on his bottom lip every so slightly. That name that he never wanted to hear again was now creeping back into his head, and into their conversation again. The one person who needed to just be rid of their lives forever. Sam wasn't sure what else to say to what Dom said. So maybe it was a good thing that he spoke to Stacey about it, and not to Sam after all first.

Sam then gave him the choice of speaking to him about it while he ate, or after he freshened up. Dom soon chose to talk to him about it as he ate, and he had to smile, when he said that it looked good. "Your welcome Dom." Sam slowly sat down on the bed on the other side of the tray, and watched Dom take the juice, then the toast with some jam. He looked around a bit, thinking about what might come up in conversation now, but he was just happy that Dom was confiding in him. Dom soon said to Sam that he promised to talk to him more about things in future, and Sam nodded, then shook his head when Dom finished off what he wanted to say. "I never felt shut out Dom, never ever. Didn't even know you had things on your mind. Not a mind reader." Sam then chuckled, and waited to hear what Dom had to say.

Hearing what Dom had to say first didn't sound stupid. For all he knew, Sam might have thought the same thing if it had happened to him, or someone else. As Dom trailed off, Sam swallowed a little, then reached across the tray, but then moved it so that he was closer to Dom. Dom had then taken his hand, and felt that gentle squeeze, which Sam turned to look at, then looked up at Dom as he gave him a small smile. Sam swallowed again, "Yes, well, let's not think about that.... ever." He sighed a little, and then felt he needed to ask, "What else did you want to tell me Dom. I just want you to just tell me everything, so I can do what I can to help if it is needed."

[Dominic Salvatore]

When Dom had apologised if he had kept Sam awake as it hadn’t been his intention he saw Sam shake his head. When Sam replied saying that he had only woken once or twice but had soon gone back to sleep Dom felt a little better. Sam then spoke some more saying that if Dom had needed him he hoped that he would have woken him up. He saw that smile of Sam’s and had to return it with one of his own. “Thanks my darling and you know that I try to do things by myself but I also know there are just some things that I can’t do yet seeing as I was told to take things easily.” Dom really had been trying to do as he was told and Sam had been able to take all this time off his work to help him but sometimes he would get naughty and try to do something alone only to have Sam help him seconds later and telling him off.

The incident with the robe was proof of that. After Sam had told him off Dom had put his hands up to his head saying that it was just so frustrating not being able to do the simplest things right now. Sam then put his hand on one of Dom’s arms and it made him look at Sam as he spoke saying he knew but agreed that he needed to be strong for their special day. He saw Sam smile warmly at him and Dom returned it with one of his own. “I’ll try to behave more.” Dom said and smiled some more. He had then thanked Sam for his help with the robe and Sam soon replied and Dom felt himself blush slightly when Sam said anything for you. Sam then kissed him on the cheek and Dom closed his eyes briefly at the touch. “I love you.” Dom said just before Sam’s lips left his cheek and then he couldn’t help but add, “And you know that I would do anything for you too, including behaving so I can get better.”

Dom was missing their intimate moments together. He loved their hugs and kisses and all the tender touches which sometimes were more in a relationship than actually making love but he was definitely missing those more intimate moments and couldn’t wait until he was fully recovered so that they could be like that with one another again.

When Dom had brought up the topic of Simon without actually mentioning his name but knowing that Sam would know who he was referring to he looked up and could tell that Sam wasn’t best pleased. He didn’t blame him after everything Simon had done to Dom from the rape a few years ago to the stabbing he should be someone that was never mentioned between them again and that’s why he didn’t actually mention his name. Sam’s reaction was enough for Dom to know to just drop the subject, they didn’t need it and had to move on with their lives together and if Dom was going to keep bringing up the shadow that was Simon then it might cause a rift in his relationship with Sam and really despite whether it was done because of a psychological problem or not he wasn’t worth losing his relationship with Sam over. “You know what Sam my darling, don’t worry about that, I have to stop bringing that shadow over us, forget I said anything about it.” Although he knew that was stupid because of Sam’s ability which was similar to Dom’s Enhanced Memory it was impossible to forget anything you were told.

Why would he want to forgive Simon regardless of how the crimes were committed? They were still committed and he would be foolish to want to forgive him and really he was no doctor so why should he have noticed the signs of change in Simon’s behaviour? People could get insanely jealous suddenly, so what would have been so different to make Dom think otherwise about Simon? Nothing he decided. He gave Sam a weak smile hoping that he would forgive him for even thinking about bringing up Simon.

After Dom had said he would talk while he ate telling Sam that the breakfast looked good and saw that smile of Sam’s and then he said he was welcome and Dom gave him a bright smile back. Dom soon made a start on the breakfast and then told Sam that he promised to talk to him more often and hoped he hadn’t felt shut out. He soon saw Sam shake his head at that and when he replied finishing with not being a mind reader Dom had to giggle slightly and then winced right after it and shook his head. “I can’t even laugh properly, I hate this.” He said in a slightly irritated voice but then gave Sam a weak smile. “I’m glad that you’ve never felt shut out as I would hate if I thought I was doing that to you by talking to Stace about things, you need to know that I don’t do that all the time, just with some things.” When Dom finished the mouthful that he was eating and finished it down with another sip of the juice he gently leant across and kissed Sam on the cheek softly.

The first thing Dom spoke about was his feelings over the death of Tony and how it had made him feel but he had soon trailed off and squeezed Sam’s hand gently. Sam then turned to Dom and gave him a small smile saying for them not to think like that again ever. Dom gave Sam a small smile back and nodded his head, “I agree my darling, sorry.” Sam then asked him what else it was he had to say and that he was to tell him everything so that he could help if he could. Dom nodded his head a little and gave Sam a smile. “Okay, well I already agreed to drop one thing, so there is only really one thing left but it’s important to me and it’s what has been driving me crazy and giving those disturbed sleeps.” Dom said and then reached to get the toast to finish it and then took another few sips of the juice leaving enough to drink after he had eaten the fruit.

He got the bowl of fruit and placed it in front of him on the bedside unit and knew that he could eat the pieces of fruit while he spoke to Sam. This was the one that was probably going to be a bit of a bombshell to Sam and in a way Dom still wasn’t sure about the decision at all. He loved performing so much and knew that his fans would miss him and he would miss them too, but almost dying had a profound effect on him and although it wasn’t a fan who had attacked him, the next time it could be, a crazed stalker one for all he knew. He realised as he had been thinking of how to say it to Sam that he had actually eaten all the fruit so he downed the rest of the juice realising that he must have been hungrier than he thought. He then slowly turned to face Sam and thought, well here goes.

“I’m wondering if I should give up being a pop star my darling.” He then took in a few deep breaths before continuing, “A part of me doesn’t want to because I adore my fans and I absolutely love performing, but with almost dying Sam, it put some things into perspective for me and I don’t want to waste a single day that we can be together and when Beth is born I’ll want to be around for her too. It’s not going to be an easy decision for me to make and that’s why I spoke to Stace about it and now speaking to you. I just... I don’t know what to do for the best my darling....” Dom trailed off being unable to say anymore as his emotions got the better of him and he began to cry softly. Performing was a big part of his life, but Sam was more than life itself, Sam was his life more than performing and choosing between the two there really was no competition for Dom, he would choose Sam each time no matter how much it hurt to drop his career.

[Samuel Carhill]

Sam gave Dom a warm smile, as he spoke. "Yes, well... you need to let me do the things that you can't do yet. I am here to help remember." He then gave him a cheeky smile, and hoped that Dom would let him help when it was required.

Sam chuckled a bit when Dom said that he would do anything for Sam, including behaving so he can get better. "I know that you would do anything for me, and I am happy about your positive outlook on your behaviour. Let's keep it up shall we?" He had to laugh at that, and kissed Dom again on the cheek. At least their banter and sense of humour was able to be used.

Sam wasn't sure that talking about Simon was a good idea, and thankfully Dom was willing to drop the topic. He sighed a little, and then looked at Dom. "Yes you do Sweetie. And it already forgotten about." Sam took Dom's hand in his own. "Let's just worry about the future, okay?" He couldn't wait for the future to happen between him and Dom. Sam could tell that it was one that was going to be bright, and very much full of love.

When Dom had giggled, after Sam's comment about not being a mind reader, Sam soon sat him wince. Dom soon spoke of not being able to laugh properly, and Sam just shook his head, not wanting to laugh about it, as it would just set Dom off. "I will make sure not to make you laugh too much." Sam smiled a little, and then listened to what Dom had to say. "Okay, just as long as it wasn't, or is alot. I would hate for you not to be able to tell me things." Sam felt that he was a pretty easy going guy, and hoped he never came across as someone he wasn't.

After Sam had asked Dom what else it was that he had to say, Dom soon spoke of one thing that was important to him. Sam wondered what it could be, but acknowledged with a nod. He frowned slightly, wondering how big this something was, if Dom hadn't been getting much sleep. "Okay Sweetie. I am all ears." Sam watched Dom finish his toast, and then drank some more of the juice. Everything that Dom was doing in front of him, it felt like he was delaying what he wanted to say, and Sam just wanted Dom to spill it already.

Soon enough Dom spoke. Sam turned around a little so that he could give Dom his full attention. Hearing the first sentence pop out of Dom's mouth, Sam felt his mouth fall open, gasping a little. The first thing that he thought was that Dom was only doing it to be with him. Sam pretty much knew what he wanted to say to that, but Dom continued, so talk. He just wanted to tell Dom to not do that, and just continue, but he let him have the benefit of the doubt. Hearing Dom's words really hit home, and Sam swallowed a little. Maybe in the back of his mind, he had hoped that Dom would continue to perform, despite how many days, weeks, months that they may have to be apart due to his touring.

Soon it was apparent that Dom was finding it hard to continue talking, and Sam put his arm around Dom, as Dom cried softly. Sam lent his head on top of Dom's bringing Dom closer to him, "Shhh Sweetie. It's okay. When you are right I will talk about what you just said." Once Dom was right, Sam straightened up a bit, and then looked at Dom. "If you really want to know my thoughts, then here they are. One, I don't want you to just give up on your career and dreams because of me. If you did, not sure what I would think, and I would hate myself if you lost out on your dreams Dom. Secondly, I am sure whatever you decide on will be for the best."

Sam looked away, then quickly looked back. "Maybe when Beth is born, maybe just slow down, not completely just drop out of the music industry. Take time off when she does arrive, and just get back into it a little bit at a time." He smiled at Dom a little, "Just tell me that you won't just drop out, as I know that you will regret it later." Sam hoped that Dom would take on what he said, and at the same time wondered what Dom might decide in the end.

[Dominic Salvatore]

When Sam told him that he had to let him do the things he couldn’t yet he saw that warm smile of Sam’s and couldn’t help but return it. He knew that Sam was telling the truth and for his own benefit but it didn’t stop it from being frustrating as hell when you found that you couldn’t do most simple things without ending in severe discomfort. “I know you are my darling and I promise to let you do more, half the time it’s because I forget until I try to do something and then find I’m in pain.” He gave Sam a weak smile then. He was just so used to being fit and being able to do things without thinking and with having the superhuman power he just sometimes forgets that he has a wound that is tender and still healing.

After Dom had told Sam that he would do anything for him too including behaving to get better he heard Sam chuckle a bit and then he spoke saying that he was happy about his positive outlook on his behaviour and he was to keep it up. This made Dom giggle a little, well as much as he could do but still had to wince slightly after it. “Well if it makes you happy my darling Prince then naturally I will have to keep it up.” He then gave Sam one of his angelic innocent looks following it through with a warm smile. He wanted to be fit enough to marry Sam by the end of May and the only way he was going to be able to do that was by letting Sam do what he could to help while he continued to recover.

When Dom had brought up Simon without actually mentioning his name he soon realised that it wasn’t the best topic of conversation which was why he had spoken to Stace about it in the first place. He eventually answered his own question about it and then told Sam that he was to forget about it and he had to stop bringing that shadow over them. Sam replied pretty much agreeing with what he had said which made Dom feel bad and he bit on his bottom lip a little. “I’m sorry Sam.” He said just using Sam’s name so that he would know that he was being very serious. Then Sam took his hand and spoke more telling him to worry about the future. He looked down at their hands together and he knew what Sam was saying was true. A tear had escape his eye as he had looked down at their hands together and then he slowly looked up at him and barely managed to get out the next words, “Okay Sam.”

When Dom had made the comment about laughing making him wince with the pain Sam soon replied to this saying he would try not to make him laugh so much. This just made Dom feel even worse. He gave Sam a sad look and shook his head, “No please don’t do that my darling, even though it hurts to laugh if I couldn’t have a laugh during this time I don’t know what I would do. I just have to remember not to laugh so hard.” He took Sam’s hand and gave it a gentle squeeze then. This recuperating business was definitely a chore thought Dom. Dom had then told Sam that he didn’t go to Stacey all the time when he had things on his mind, just with some things. Sam soon replied to that basically saying he would hate for Dom not to be able to tell him things. Dom gave Sam a bit of a smile then, “I would never think that my darling, I know I can talk to you about anything.” Dom replied well maybe with the exception of one thing or more one person but hopefully Dom would soon be able to put him into a very distant past. Maybe he would have to get counselling again to help him get over the stabbing.

When Dom was ready to talk about the one big thing that he had been thinking about Sam told him that he was all ears and Dom gave him a weak smile but had then continued to eat as he thought about how to tell Sam not even realising that to Sam it might have appeared that he was trying to avoid saying anything. However he soon spoke and he watched as Sam turned to face him and then as he continued he saw Sam’s mouth open and then he heard Sam gasp a little. He knew that it would have shocked Sam and he hoped that Sam didn’t think he was doing it just for him. Sure it would help him to see Sam more but there was more to it than that. However Dom soon found that he could no longer say anything else and had begun to cry softly. He then felt Sam put his arm around him and felt Sam’s head on his own as he pulled him closer. Dom loved being in the embrace right then and it was helping to calm him down slightly.

Sam then spoke saying that when he was right he would talk to him about what he had just said and all Dom could do was to nod his head slightly as he continued to cry softly for a couple of moments until he felt somewhat composed. Once Dom was more composed he felt Sam move slightly and he looked at him getting ready to hear what Sam would say to what he had been thinking about. What Sam began to say however wasn’t what Dom had expected to hear and wanted to protest but decided to let Sam finish but did shake his head at what Sam was saying and hearing Sam think that he wanted to give up his career just for him saddened him and he began to cry all the more. He was never going to give up his career for Simon and so he would never have given it up for another lover either, no there was far more to it than just that.

Dom just continued to cry as Sam then spoke more about taking some time out after Beth was born and not dropping out completely adding that he knew he would regret it later if he did. Well now Dom was more confused than ever. He had hoped talking to Sam might have made his decision easier but all it was succeeding in doing was making it more difficult, not that he would tell Sam that. Dom’s tears finally began to subside and defiance was beginning to set in but he didn’t want to argue with Sam over it as a part of him could understand what Sam was trying to say but he wasn’t looking at it from Dom’s point of view. He wiped at his eyes messily and then looked down at the floor.

“But I’m not doing it for you Sam; I’d be doing it for myself. Of course being able to see you more would be an advantage but that isn’t the real reason behind this, there’s more to it than just that. I was hoping you would understand.” Dom stood up then and began to pace the floor, “What if something like this...” He pointed to the area where he had been stabbed and then continued, “...was to happen again during a performance on stage, only this time it was some crazy stalker fan and they succeeded in killing me? Then what Sam? You see? That’s why I’ve been thinking about dropping it, not just because I want to have more time with you because I knew you would never have expected me to do that. No I just don’t want something like this to happen again and it’s not like I haven’t thought of other career prospects because I have. I wanted to be a fashion designer before my friends entered me into American Idol.” Dom explained and then realising that he had been using a lot of muscles that hadn’t been used properly for a while he began to feel a bit nauseous and weak and felt himself falling to the ground.

Sam’s last words came back through into his head as he sat in a crumbled heap on the floor and then he looked up at him with sad eyes and a weak smile because a part of him deep down knew that he would miss performing. “Although I guess that you might have a bit of a point my darling. I could always go part time instead. Maybe just stay a local singer than a national one and anybody who really wants to see me can come to Laughlin or Las Vegas. But a part of me is still very scared that something like this could happen again.” Dom then began to push himself back up off the floor but as he did so he began to shake violently and then just fell back to the floor passing out.

[Samuel Carhill]

Dom replied to what Sam said about keeping up the positive outlook on his behaviour. Sam had to chuckle, but then saw the look that Dom gave. He just shook his head, and then returned the smile.

Hearing Dom say 'I'm sorry Sam' made Sam feel a little sad then. "Hey, it's okay. We just need to move from him who shall not be named." He put his arm around him, giving him a quick gentle squeeze. Sam didn't want Dom to feel down, and just wanted to turn the subject to a more happier one soon. Sam had then told Dom to look to the future, and just worry about that. Hearing Dom say only two words made Sam wonder if he was just being a bit pushy and covering up what he didn't want to go over again.

After Sam said that he would try and not make Dom laugh so much, Dom soon said not to do that. Hearing what he had to say about the matter, Sam nodded. "I understand Sweetie. I guess I will just have to share some dumb jokes then." Sam chuckled, thinking that he might have to think of some bad ones which ware so stupid that you have to laugh. "Might have a joke book around somewhere. Or some saved ones from the Christmas bon bons." He shook his head, knowing that those jokes were ones you could just roll your eyes at.

Sam nodded as Dom said that he knew he could talk to Sam about anything. He smiled at Dom, and looked at him, "I'm glad Dom. I do feel that I am open enough to discuss anything with you, and vise versa. Though right now don't have much to tell you. But...." Sam looked down teasingly, and sighed. He looked away for a few seconds, then slowly looked up seriously, "... I have one thing to tell you.... I, uh... love you very much." He gave Dom a bright smile, and then kissed him for a few seconds. He had to turn the down part of the conversation a bit brighter, and knew that he could tell Dom a million times a day how much he loved him.

Sam saw Dom shake his head as he spoke about what Dom had just mentioned. He had to say what he said because it was how he had felt, as Dom had shared his thoughts about what he had been thinking about. The tears that he had seen too was making him a little uneasy. He never wanted to make Dom sad right now, but it seemed that his words were doing just that. But when he finished, he saw that the tears had stopped somewhat. Sam hoped that what he said made sense, as it kind of mades sense to him, giving Dom is perspective of his thoughts.

Dom soon spoke, and said that he wasn't doing it for Sam, and all Sam could do was say, "Oh," very quietly, looking down at his hands. So now he felt bad for stating that Dom had better not doing it for him. He never wanted to be the person who Dom was just doing things to benefit him. Sam was never like that, and would always work with the other person in the relationship. He looked up and listened to what else Dom had to say. Sam bit on his bottom lip in the corner when Dom said that he hoped that he would understand. He didn't know what to say. He thought that he had understood, but apparently his brilliant mind wasn't so brilliant now.

He watched Dom pace the floor as he continued to speak, and now what was being said was making sense. Sam could understand what Dom was worried about, and he continued to watch and listen more. He swallowed, feeling tears stinging in his eyes. Why am I getting upset for, Sam thought to himself. He blinked a few times, letting out silent breaths, keeping control of his emotions. Once Dom finished off with the other career path he was going to follow through on before American Idol, Sam opened his mouth to speak in reply, but then saw Dom fall to the ground.

"Dom!" Sam rushed over to him, and put his hands on Dom's upper arms, trying to keep him in a good position on the floor. He looked at Dom, as he again spoke. Sam nodded slowly at what he said about going part time in the music industry, more like going local rather than national with his music. He rubbed his hands up and down along Dom's arms now, trying to sooth him somehow. Hearing that Dom was scared that something like what happened to him might happen again, Sam swallowed. The whole event of that afternoon and evening just shook him to his core. But then felt movement as Dom attempted to get up off the floor. Sam slid back a bit, but then watched Dom shake, and the fall to the floor.

His eyes gew wide, and placed his hands on Dom's upper arms again, "Dom! Sweetie, please don't do this now!" His eyes roamed over Dom's body, hoping that nothing was happening inside him. Sam didn't have x-ray vision, so couldn't tell. But then without thinking, Sam put his arms carefully under Dom's body, and somehow easily picked him up. It was like he was light as a feather. Again his eyes grew wide with shock, but then quickly placed Dom on the bed carefully. Sam looked at his arms, wondering what the hell was happening. Then he just rolled his eyes, "It's probably just the adrenaline rush."

Sam then looked at Dom, "Come on Sweetie. I am sorry if I made you a little unhappy with what I said. I do understand where you are coming from, and will go with whatever you decide." Sam didn't want to lose Dom now, that he seemed like he was doing so well with his recovery.

[Dominic Salvatore]

When Dom had apologised to Sam in a serious tone Sam soon replied saying that it was okay and they just had to move on from he who shall not be named and then he gave Dom a quick gentle squeeze and Dom had to then give Sam a weak smile. “Okay.” He replied knowing full well that they should move on together and not to dwell on the past but it was very difficult when you had so many reminders of the past in your memory. Dom now had two very bad memories involving Simon, the rape and now the stabbing. One had left a physical memory in the scar that he would have from the stabbing and the operation. He looked at Sam and gave him a smile, “I think I might have to speak to David again when he’s available, I think having a couple of therapy sessions might be a good idea for me my darling. He helped me with the rape issue and with what happened it’s brought everything back and I think in order for us to move on baggage free that it will help if I can talk to someone about it all again.” He wondered what Sam would say to that, but if Sam wanted them to move on and forget the past then Dom felt that this would be the best way to do that.

When Dom had told Sam not to stop making him laugh he had to giggle slightly when Sam said he would have to think of some dumb jokes to tell him. Sam continued with talking about having a joke book around somewhere or some from Christmas. Dom giggled again a little, “Well pathetic jokes are better than nothing.” He replied and then nudged into Sam playfully. It wasn’t really that painful to laugh so long as he didn’t laugh too hard. With Dom being more of a giggler than a hard laugher it usually didn’t hurt that much but sometimes he felt it niggling which made him wince.

When Dom had said he knew that he could talk to Sam about anything he had to smile as Sam replied to this and when Sam had said that he felt that he was open enough to discuss anything with Dom too he had then begun to tease him slightly not that Dom knew that at first until he finished saying he loved him very much. Dom broke out into a grin when he heard Sam say that and would have said something but he felt Sam’s lips on his own. Dom closed his eyes as Sam kissed him and wanted so much to open up to him in a passionate one but knew that it might hurt him and so he held back. When they broke apart Dom looked into Sam’s eyes and gave him a loving smile, “I love you very much too my darling Prince.” Dom then put his hands on Sam’s face and brought him to his lips and kissed him again. Not an all out passionate one but definitely let it linger for a moment or two and closed his eyes again as he did so.

Dom had then opened up to Sam but Sam’s response hadn’t been quite what Dom had expected and soon told him that he wouldn’t be doing it for him and that he would be doing it for himself. He heard Sam say ‘oh’ but he continued with why he was suggesting dropping his career talking about the possibility that a crazy stalker fan might do something like what Simon did and this time he might not survive. Dom saw that Sam was getting upset which he hadn’t wanted but he was basically talking about someone else attempting to stab him and this time succeeding in killing him, it wasn’t what your lover wanted to hear you say. When Dom had spoken of his other career choice before he was entered in American Idol he had then collapsed onto the floor. So naturally Sam never said anything about what he had just said.

He did hear Sam exclaim his name and soon enough Sam was next to him at his level and he soon felt his hands on his upper arms. As Dom then spoke about going part time, becoming a local singer rather than national singer he saw Sam nod at him in acknowledgement and felt his hands rub up and down on his arms which was making him feel a little better. Again Sam never said anything to him about it and he knew it was probably because he didn’t want to really influence his decision one way or the other and in a way Dom could understand and appreciate that. He then made to get up off the floor but began to shake and fell to the ground once more passing out. Dom had simply pushed himself a little too hard with the pacing the floor and getting frustrated with what he had been talking about that he had basically just fainted.

As Sam spoke Dom could hear everything he was saying but couldn’t respond at that moment and the next thing he knew he was being placed on the bed gently by Sam. He was already starting to come round when Sam spoke again and Dom flickered his eyes open and looked at him, “I’m sorry my darling, I didn’t mean to scare you, I think I just pushed myself too much with getting so frustrated.” He then pushed himself up onto the bed gently and knew that he had fallen onto the ground and so he looked at Sam with a bit of confusion, “How the hell did you manage to get me onto the bed my darling?” He asked because he knew that he wasn’t exactly light, he was tall and pretty solid but he began to shake his head a little, “It doesn’t matter, what matters now is that I’m sorry for getting so defiant before but I needed you to know that I wasn’t making the decision just for you. And you didn’t make me unhappy. I just feel like I need to do this for me. I’m really scared that something could happen again and I don’t want to have to go through anything like this ever again. But I know that I could never give up performing completely, it’s in my blood and I enjoy it so much, but I know for a fact that I never want to be travelling without you because if something like this did happen again, I don’t want for the last face I see to be the person that does it and I know that I can’t take you on tour with me all the time. So, this is the best decision for both of us I believe. I can easily set up a fashion business with the money I’ve earned so far from my singing and I can remain a singer but just stay local and put on maybe a bi-annual concert in Laughlin and Las Vegas where my fans can come and see me. I’d maybe do a national tour once every two years or something, so long as you can come with me.” Dom explained and then feeling a bit stronger again he sat up on the edge of the bed.

“I’ll have to do a press release conference tomorrow to let the fans know of my decision; do you think you could come with me for support my darling?” Dom asked and gave him a weak smile, he was still very confused because a part of him was scared to continue with his singing career but another part of him wanted to carry on because it was what he loved to do the most. Deciding to go into fashion and become a local singer seemed like the best idea for him to get the best of both worlds. He then leant his head on Sam’s shoulder, “I’m sorry again that I scared you before, but now that I’ve told you I am hoping I will be able to sleep easier.” He then put his hand on Sam’s face gently, “I love you so much and I know that having a split career will be the best thing for me.” He then placed his lips on Sam’s and shifted position slightly without hurting himself so that he could put his arms around Sam’s neck and this time he put a bit of passion into the kiss and let it carry on for a moment or two before pulling apart from it.

“How about helping me get freshened up now my darling?” He asked and stood up slowly and taking Sam’s hand he waited for him to get up too and then led the both of them through to the bathroom.

[Samuel Carhill]

When Dom said that he thought that he might have to speak to David again, Sam slowly nodded. Not that he was necessary doing that to agree, despite knowing that it would help, but that he was just acknowledging what he was saying. Sam put his hand gently on Dom's leg, and looked into his lover's eyes, "Maybe it won't hurt, since he did help you with the other issue. And you might be right, it might help us move. And I will be here for support along the way, you know that." Sam gave him a warm smile, just happy that Dom was thinking of ways to help himself.

After Sam had somehow picked up Dom, and placed him on the bed, he had started to talk to him again, just willing him to wake up and apologising for what he had said. He could see Dom start to wake up, and Sam was once again looking in Dom's gorgeous eyes. Sam immediately shook her head when Dom apologised, explaining what probably happened. So to Sam then it made sense, and knew from now on, Dom was only to lay in bed, or lay out in the lounge, nothing else for a few days at least. Sam nodded again, "Maybe rest in the bedroom or lounge room might be best for a few more days then."

Sam then saw the confused look on Dom's face, and wondered what Dom was thinking about, then he soon heard what he said next. He bit on his lip a little, and then opened his mouth to talk, but then Dom shook his head, stating that it didn't matter. Sam closed his mouth, and listened to what else Dom had to say. To get more comfortable, he knelt on the floor, taking in everything that Dom was saying. It definitely seemed to Sam that Dom had done quite a lot of thinking about his decision, and what he wanted to do now to keep himself safe. When Dom sat up and sat on the edge of the bed, Sam got off from kneeling on the floor, and sat on the bed beside Dom.

Dom then asked Sam if he could come with him for support when he did the press conference tomorrow. "Dom, anything for you, you know that. I don't have anything planned, as you are my number one priority right now." Sam gave him a warm smile, and gave his hand a gentle squeeze. "And Sweetie, whatever you decide I am beside you one hundred percent." Sam still felt bad that he had gone off a bit with Dom, but now after taking in everything that Dom had said, Sam was definitely behind Dom all the way.

Dom then apologised again for scarying Sam before, and Sam shook his head. He then smiled at Dom, liking what he heard, about him sleeping easier now. "Maybe you scared me just a little. But I do hope that after getting it out in the open, that you will sleep a lot better to help your recovery." Dom then shifted, and Sam moved a little, not knowing where he was doing, but he soon saw him lean in for a kiss, and Sam met him halfway, and soon felt Dom's arm around his neck, and his lips on his own. Sam enjoyed these times with Dom, especially more as they weren't being intimate due to Dom still recovering. That was one question he would ask the doctor next time Dom went for his next check up. Not that he was worried, as he did relieve himself, but he couldn't wait to be intimiate with his lover.

After they parted, Sam listened to what Dom said next. "Sure Sweetie. Anything for my husband-to-be." He chuckled a little, then got up after Dom did, and when Dom took his hand, Sam got his other hand, placing it over the back of Dom's hand, and walked with Dom to the bathroom to help him.

[Dominic Salvatore]

{ooc - just to let you know that I've googled for general information on time scales for how long stitches are kept in and how soon to wash an area after stitches have been taken out - I'm not just assuming lol}

When Dom had said to Sam that he might have to speak to David again to help him to move on baggage free he watched as Sam nodded his head slowly. Really Dom wouldn’t have needed Sam to say anything as that gesture was an answer in itself really, however Sam placed a hand on his knee and looked into his eyes and replied saying that it wouldn’t hurt and he’d be there to support him and Dom gave Sam a loving smile then. He moved one of his hands to rest on top of Sam’s, “I know you will be and I appreciate that with all my heart my darling.” He would contact David tomorrow at some point and ask him when he would be free for a talk. He helped him the last time and he knew that he would be able to do it again. He didn’t want the Simon cloud hanging over their heads anymore and he was now hoping and praying that Simon had moved to a completely different State so that he would never come into their lives again.

Once Dom had come round from his little fainting spell he had apologised to Sam for scaring him and basically said that he felt that he had pushed himself too much with getting so frustrated. Sam soon responded to this suggesting that he might have to rest in the bedroom or lounge room for the next few days. Dom nodded his head slightly but spoke saying, “I do think I have to rest up a bit more for a couple of days, I think to make up for the lack of sleep the past couple of nights but I don’t want to be shut away in here without you, so the lounge room during the day will be best I think, so I can at least see your face when I’m not sleeping.” He gave Sam another loving smile then. He was so in love with Sam that the idea of being at home recuperating and knowing that Sam was there with him to help and not being able to see him was just upsetting.

Dom had then made to question Sam about how he had gotten him onto the bed but soon brushed it off going into a full explanation of what he wanted to do about his music career now. He could tell that Sam was taking everything in but didn’t actually say anything to him about it all, maybe he felt that there was nothing he could say, but Dom wanted to know in particular what he thought about going on tour with him if he did a national one at least once every two years. But he had then gone on to ask Sam if he would go with him to the press release conference where he would have to sadly tell his fans of his decision in cutting down his music career. When Sam replied Dom couldn’t help but give him a warm smile back and when he squeezed his hand gently he did the same gesture back to Sam. “Thanks for being there for me my darling, I just know that it won’t be an easy thing for me to do but I need to do it, I feel like I need to do it for my own safety. Maybe in a few years time I might think differently who knows, but right now, I think this is the right decision for me.”

Sam had then gone on to tell him that whatever he decided he was behind him one hundred percent and Dom broke into a bright smile then because having Sam’s support on his career choice was important to him. “Thanks my darling, you have no idea what that means to me to hear you say that. However I did mention before that if I was to do a national tour once every two years maybe, about you coming with me, you never said anything about that. It’s just that I know that it won’t be easy for you to get away from your job my darling Prince, so if it can’t happen, then I simply won’t do it. I don’t want to tour without you, not after what happened in Hawaii. I know I wouldn’t be alone what with Tommy and the guys, but, I just know that I will fret the whole time I’m away without you.” Dom said hoping Sam would understand why he was going on about having him tour with him if he did go on a national tour. However he hadn’t long finished a national tour before he met Sam and wouldn’t have been due for another one until the following year anyway, but now that would be put off until the year twenty twelve maybe.

Dom had then apologised to Sam again for scaring him before and saw Sam shake his head but when he spoke he admitted that maybe he scared him a little bit. What Sam said next made sense, because he knew if he wasn’t getting enough sleep his recovery would take longer and he wanted to be fully recovered for their wedding. “I’m sure that now I’ve got it out there and spoken to you that I will sleep better now, don’t you worry about that.” Dom said in a soft voice and gave Sam a warm smile. Dom had then leant in to kiss Sam and putting a bit of passion into it and Sam returned the kiss. Right now it was these tender moments between them that were keeping Dom going. He hated not being able to be intimate in a physical way but knew that his recovery was the main focus right now but he was missing Sam so much in that way.

When Dom pulled away from the kiss he had asked Sam if he would help get him freshened up now. It was something he would have done himself weeks ago without thinking, but he knew that if he even attempted to freshen himself up alone that Sam would kick off at him as he had gotten all this time off from work to help him so Dom had to let him do that. Sam soon replied and when he heard him call him husband-to-be it made Dom giggle along with Sam’s chuckle. “That actually sounds really nice my darling husband-to-be.” He said using the same words on Sam. He then stood up and took Sam’s hand and he soon felt Sam’s other hand go over it also as he helped him to the bathroom.

Once inside the bathroom Dom sat down on one of the seats that he had taken into the bathroom for help while recovering. The one thing he could do by himself was to brush his teeth, but he would let Sam help him with everything else first. As he wasn’t allowed to get the area where the stitches had been removed washed for at least another two days so it meant he couldn’t have a shower. He untied the robe and let it slip off from his shoulders and looked at Sam, “Well, I’m all yours my darling, figuratively speaking.” He began to giggle then as he waited for Sam to help get him washed down. “At least you only have to do this for another two days and then I can get back under the shower, not that I haven’t enjoyed this close attention but the joy of having the running water on me, I just can’t wait.” He said and sighed gently and then looked at Sam and knew that he would never get tired of saying it, “I love you so much my darling.”

[Samuel Carhill]

Sam listened to what Dom said about resting up, and then had to smile a little with Dom's comment about not wanting to be shut away in the bedroom. He didn't want him to shut away in their either, and took in what Dom said about what he could do during the day. "Whatever you decide to do Sweetie I will go with. I don't want you cooped up in here either. But you know if you need to be somewhere comfortable, I can lay in the bed next to you and do something while you rest." Sam knew he could read, or work on something like writing up what he could do when he got back to work.

After Sam said to Dom that he would be there for the press conference, as he was his number one priority right now, Dom soon replied. Sam nodded to what Dom said in reply, "I understand Dom, but with me there it will be okay. Safety definitely comes first, and I want you safe and sound with me for the rest of our lives." Sam sighed, and squeezed Dom's hand again, just knowing that he couldn't live without Dom now, and couldn't see himself with anyone else.

Dom soon replied to what Sam said about being behind him one hundred percent. Sam returned the smile that Dom had on his face, knowing that what he said had made an impact. During what Dom said, Sam heard about the bit that he had mentioned, but Sam had obviously forgotten about replying to. He put his hand up to his mouth, "I am so sorry Dom. I guess everything else came into my head at the one time. And with my ability you think I would have remembered it all." Sam chuckled, then looked at Dom, "I can't see why it won't be possible. All I can do is talk to the principal, as long as I have plenty of notice about it. They have been understanding about this current situation, I can't see why I won't be able to. Maybe work it near, or on the holiday breaks. I guess time away will have to just be cut to a week here and there, so that I can accumulate my holidays up when I need to take leave." Sam hoped that it made sense what he said to Dom. He never wanted to have Dom fret while he was touring, as he knew he wouldn't put in his full potential into the concerts if he was worried the whole time.

After Sam helped Dom into the bathroom, Sam saw Dom sit on the chair, and he went to get the basin, which he had been filling up with the water. He made sure that the tape in the bath was running nice and warm, then placed the basin under the running water to fill it up. Once he had another, Sam placed the basin in the bath, and turned the taps off. Sam then turned to Dom as he spoke, saying that he was all his. He smirked, and shook his head, reaching for the basin, which he then placed beside Dom's chair. Sam went over to the cupboard, opening it, and took out a sponge, then a fresh towel to dry Dom off.

Sam headed back, and sat on the edge of the bath, looking at Dom as he spoke again. It made him smile listening to what Dom had to say. "You know that I have loved taking care of you, and loved being able to do this. But I do get you though. It will be nice to just wash all of yourself, though I guess you might need help still." Sam reached in to wet the sponge in the water, and was about start washing over Dom's shoulders, when he lent into Dom's ear, "Might be good for us both to be in the shower together then when you can go in there in two days." Sam pulled away, and bit on his lip slightly, cheekily smiling at Dom.

Sam then wiped the sponge over Dom's shoulders, moving it along the back of his neck, letting the water run down Dom's back. He then heard Dom say he loved him so much, and Sam stopped the sponge halfway down Dom's back. Sam looked at Dom, and sighed a little, "I love you too Sweetie. More than anything right now." He then kissed Dom quickly on the lips, and then continued to wash Dom's back gently, up and down, then in a circular motion. Sam looked at Dom, then looked back at what he was doing, and just felt his heart skip a beat. He hoped that the idea of having a shower together wasn't too much, so decided to make a mental note of that, ready to ask the doctor if they were able to may stimulate each other without having sex.

Dom didn't know this, but he had been stimulating himself while he was in bed asleep. Sam would do this away from the bedroom, in order not to wake Dom. He still wished it was Dom massaging him and do other things, but this is what he had to do in order to keep himself stimulated. Sam was never a sex addict, but with Dom before the surgery and accident, he was kept pretty active in this department, so he felt he had to keep going on his own accord.

Sam soon felt himself start to slow down with washing, and looked at Dom apologetically. "Sorry Sweetie. Was just doing some thinking. Just thinking about asking the doctor next time we go about maybe.... uh... looking at ... um..." Sam looked away, and quickly dipped the sponge into the water to get it more wet. He rung it out a little, then looked at Dom. "I guess what I am trying to say is I want to ask about the intimate side of our relationship, and when maybe you can slowly step into it agian. Or maybe ways we can stimuate each other without it doing you damage." Sam bit on his bottom lip a little, then looked away as Sam wiped down Dom's left arm with the sponge.

[Dominic Salvatore]

When Dom said he knew that he had to rest but didn’t want to be shut away in the bedroom he had to smile at Sam’s response. “Don’t worry my darling I’ll soon tell you if I need to rest up comfortably and I will definitely make sure you join me, even if it’s just to hold me while I rest.” He replied and raised his eyebrow at Sam and smirked. Right now the tender side of their relationship was all he could get and give and he couldn’t wait until he would be fit enough for him and Sam to be able to make love with each other again as he had been missing it over the past couple of weeks.

As Dom spoke more about the press conference and why he felt he had to do what he was going to do Sam soon replied saying that he understood and added that his safety came first and how he wanted him safe and sound for the rest of their lives. Sam had then squeezed Dom’s hand and he sighed contently. Dom gave Sam a warm smile, “That’s good my darling because I feel the same way.” His relationship with Simon was obviously meant to go wrong as it brought him to Sam and Dom knew that he would be lost without him in his life now.

When Dom had repeated his question about Sam being able to go with him whenever he did tour in the future he saw Sam put his hand up to his mouth and apologised for forgetting and adding that with his mind he should have remembered. Sam had then chuckled which made Dom giggle a little, “That’s okay my darling.” He replied and then listened to what else Sam had to say on the subject. Dom nodded his head in several places as Sam spoke and waited until he was finished before saying anything as he hadn’t wanted to interrupt him at all. “Well my darling with cutting down my commitment to singing if I did ever do a tour then I might split it and do a week in North America and a week in South America but with months apart, I would never want you to use all of your holidays to accompany me on tour as I would like for us to be able to relax on a proper holiday together away from it all for a week or two.” Dom replied hoping that he had made sense to Sam as he thought it sounded good in his own head.

Dom knew in his heart that despite the stabbing by Simon that he most likely would never have done another tour the length of his last one which had lasted for months because now that he had Sam in his life he knew that he wouldn’t be able to leave him for that length of time and knew that it wouldn’t be possible for Sam to come with him for months touring as Sam had a career of his own and Dom would never expect him to give it up just to go travelling with him on tour. He probably would have cut down his singing career anyway but the stabbing and near death experience had just brought that decision on sooner. He knew a part of him would miss performing as often but he was also looking forward to getting into the fashion business also. And if he was really missing the performing then he could always put on a home concert every few months knowing that the fans that adored him and could afford it, would travel to see him.

Once they were both in the bathroom and Dom had sat on the chair that he had taken in for Sam to help him get cleaned and dried he had told Sam that he was all his after slipping his robe off. He saw Sam smirk and shake his head and Dom raised his eyebrow at him and giggled a little. Dom had then said that he would only have to do this for another couple of days although he had enjoyed the close attention he just couldn’t wait to feel the water from the shower running over him. Sam soon replied to that and Dom had to smile warmly at what he heard. “I know that you have loved taking care of me and being able to do all of this and you’re right that I will still need a bit of looking after for a while yet. I dare say that the area is going to be tender for a few weeks yet my darling.” Dom replied and gave Sam a warm smile as he knew that Sam wouldn’t mind having to look after him for a bit longer.

Sam had then soaked the sponge and was getting ready to start washing Dom down when he leant into his ear and said that it might be good for the both of them to go into the shower together when he could in a couple of days. He then watched Sam bite on his lip slightly and gave Dom a cheeky look. Dom grinned slightly and raised his eyebrow, “You know what my darling that sounds like a damn good idea.” He raised his eyebrow again and giggled slightly. It would definitely be the start of them getting back more of their intimacy if they were able to do that and Dom wasn’t about to knock that back. Sam had then begun to wash down his shoulders and he had to close his eyes for a second as he felt the water run down his back. He had then said that he loved Sam so much and Dom felt the movement stop and Sam soon said that he loved him too more than anything right now. Sam had then kissed Dom and he had to close his eyes at the touch. Sam then continued to wash him down and Dom kept his eyes closed as he did this just loving the feel of it.

A silence fell upon them, although it wasn’t awkward by any means because Dom had his eyes closed just loving the feel of what Sam was doing right then but the silence was then broken when Sam spoke. This made Dom open his eyes to take in what Sam was saying. Sam seemed to be struggling to tell him what was on his mind but he continued to remain quiet to let Sam get out what he was trying to say although he had a fair idea what it was going to be about. And he was right as Sam finally got out what he was trying to say. Sam wasn’t the only one who had been missing the intimacy so he had no problem with what Sam wanted to do. He slowly nodded his head and then made Sam look at him as he had looked away, by turning Sam’s face to his with his hand under his chin, “I think that is a good idea my darling, I would like to be able to resume intimacy with you but obviously not if it’s going to be dangerous, so I agree we should talk to the doctor about it.”

When Sam had finished washing him down and dried him he waited for Sam to help him back into his robe as at this point he couldn’t be bothered getting dressed properly and then he looked at Sam giving him a warm smile. “You know what I feel like doing right now my darling?” He asked but not really waiting for a reply from Sam, “Going into the living room, lying on the lounge with my head on your lap and watching my favourite movie ‘Love Actually’, what do you think?” Dom asked as he then stood up slowly from the chair and taking Sam’s hand in his own so that he could lead him through into the living room when he got an answer.

[Samuel Carhill]

Hearing Dom comment about Sam joining him, if it was only to hold him while he rested, made Sam smile a little at the thought. He could imagine themself just sitting, and Dom lying, on the lounge, just being there together. It was definitely a great sight.

After Sam had commented about the whole idea of him travelling with Dom if and when he toured, Dom soon replied. Sam took in what was being said, and nodded where necessary. Everything that Dom said sounded like a definite plan that it seemed that Dom had really thought about as well. "What you said makes it sound like you have been doing a lot of thinking about it all. And whatever you decide to do with touring, just know that I am there with you, okay? And I do like the idea of going on a holiday just the two of us. No work for miles." Sam smiled at Dom, just loving how their last holiday went, before the terrible situation.

Sam acknowledged what Dom said about needing a bit of looking after for a while yet. He had no idea how long that would be, but to Sam it wasn't a chore. He loved Dom, and would do anything for him. "I am sure the doctor will gradually let you know of what you could start to try when they think you are ready." Sam knew that was one of many questions for when they see the doctor next for Dom's check up.

After Sam had made the comment about it being goo for the both of them to go into the shower together, he had bitten on his lip a little, and watched Dom give him a grin, and raised his eyebrows. Hearing what Dom said in reply made Sam shake his head a little playfully, then looked at Dom with the biggest grin on his face, "It's a damn good idea because I thought of it." Sam pointed to himself, and chuckled to himself. He had then started to wash down Dom, and as he continued, Sam watched Dom keep his eyes closed after he had kissed him.

It was quiet, but it didn't make Sam want to fill in the silence at all. It was some time for thinking, and he had been thinking right then. He soon spoke to Dom about what he had been thinking about, but it wasn't coming out how he really wanted it to. Finally the words were said, but Sam looked away after it. He felt a hand under his chin, and he moved with it to look at Dom. Sam listened to what Dom had to say, and nodded. "Okay. Probably not a question to ask straight away, as really the stitches have only been out a day. And really, I doubth either of us is going to forget to ask it. Or any questions about the subject." Sam crouched down beside where Dom was on the chair, and looked at him, as he rested his hands on Dom's knees to keep balance, "I have a few ideas of what we could do to start off with, but it will have to wait. Just in case I hurt you." Sam gave him a weak smile, as he never wanted to hurt Dom, ever.

Finally after that little discussion, Sam finished off washing Dom over, and dried him off with the towel. Placing the towel on the side of the bath, Sam got up and helped Dom to get back into his robe. "You let me know if and when you want to get into some clothes. Would hate for you to be cold with lack of clothing." Sam smiled, and then felt that maybe he was being a tad overprotective, but he didn't want Dom to get sick.

Dom then asked Sam what he felt like doing right then. Sam shook his head, having no idea, though it would have to be something to do with taking it easy. Dom soon told him what he felt like doing, and to Sam it sounded great. A grin broke across Sam's lips, "Sounds great Sweetie. Then after we can just put in another movie, my choice." Sam knew that it would have to be Notting Hill. Sam then watched as Dom got out of the chair, and sighed a little as Dom took his hand. Sam then walked with Dom into the lounge to relax with his lover for the rest of the day.

[Dominic Salvatore]

When Dom had commented more about the touring and having Sam with him he had made a suggestion of what he could do and Sam soon answered him. Dom listened to what he had to say with a warm smile on his face. “I have been thinking about it a lot my darling, ever since I woke up from the operation in the hospital. When I first thought about giving it up completely and then began to feel bad about that knowing I wouldn’t like it and then thought about cutting back instead, I knew I would have to have some sort of plan of action into place for touring. You can’t be a pop star and have fans and not perform for them, so this was the best solution I could come up with.” Dom explained and gave Sam another warm smile. He knew that if Sam had said no to accompany him on tour he would have just had to keep having home town concerts and have his fans come to him, at least, those who could afford it, although Dom would probably still hold concerts in his home town anyway. “And I’m glad you like the idea of us going on holiday, here’s hoping that the next one whether it’s a week or two weeks is a lot better than our last attempt my darling.” Dom said knowing that he was bringing up the dark moment again but it was something that Dom would never forget what with his enhanced memory.

After Dom had told Sam that he would probably need looking after for a while yet Sam soon responded to this. Dom nodded his head as he listened to what Sam had to say about it and knew that what he was saying was the truth. “You’re right my darling, all I know is that they told me that I wasn’t to do anything too strenuous for a month, so I am sure in a couple of weeks time they will soon begin to tell me what I might be able to start doing and when.” Dom replied and gave Sam a bright smile. Even in the week since coming out of the hospital Dom felt as if he had made good progress with his recovery. Yes the wound area was still very tender but he was putting that down to the fact that stitches had only been removed the day before. He felt a lot stronger now and had a fair idea that in a couple of weeks time that he might feel ready to do more but knew that he would have to get the doctors permission first.

When Sam had mentioned to Dom about going in to the shower together when Dom could finally go for one in a couple of days time Dom had remarked that it was a damn good idea and when Sam replied to that saying it was a damn good idea because he had thought of it, Dom had to giggle a little knowing that he couldn’t laugh properly as it still hurt him to do so. “Well of course my darling, of course.” Dom replied and giggled again slightly now looking forward to when he would be able to go for his first shower and hopefully have Sam in with him where they would be able to help wash each other down as it could be a very sensual act and when the advanced intimacy was off limits for a while then you had to do anything else you could think of for sexual stimulation to relieve the frustrations without it being over strenuous at the same time, at least for Dom just now anyway.

Sam had then mentioned about asking the doctors about when Dom would be able to resume intimacy and when he had turned way Dom had soon put his hand under Sam’s chin and turned him to face him and soon told him that he agreed with asking about it as he would like to resume intimacy with Sam but not if it was going to be dangerous for him. Sam soon replied to this and Dom listened to what he had to say and nodded his head in several places. “I agree my darling, maybe a question that we should ask in a week or two, but I am sure that there are a few other things that we can do to stimulate each other without me being in too much pain.” Dom wasn’t sure exactly what they could do, but stimulating each other with their hands wouldn’t be too strenuous he thought and it would pleasure the both of them without the added pressure of actually penetrating each other which of course Dom was missing but knew had to wait until the doctor gave him the all clear for that.

Dom then watched as Sam crouched down putting his hands on his knees to keep balance and soon spoke saying that he had a few ideas of what they could start off but it would have to wait. Well now Dom was intrigued and just wanted to find out more about what Sam was referring to. “Well why don’t you tell me these ideas my darling and I can possibly tell you if I think it would hurt or not, as I had been thinking of a couple of ideas myself.” Dom replied giving Sam a warm smile wanting to know if Sam’s ideas were similar to his own if not the same although he knew that Sam would never knowingly do anything to hurt him and he knew that is what Sam would be thinking of right now that he wouldn’t want to hurt him but Dom wanted to know what his ideas were, he couldn’t just say he had ideas and then not say anything else about them.

Soon enough Sam had finished washing Dom down and soon had him dried off and back into his robe and despite knowing that Sam loved doing this, he always thanked him because really it was all things he should be able to do himself. “Thanks my darling.” He said giving him a soft smile and then Sam spoke about the fact that he was just keeping his robe on for now. “Don’t worry my darling I will let you know, but right now I feel fine and I know once I start lying in your lap I will soon get all the heat I need from your body.” He replied and gave Sam a wink and a smile.

When Dom had asked Sam if he knew what he felt like doing right then he hadn’t really expected an answer nor had he waited for one but he saw Sam shake his head and then Dom told him what he wanted to do. As he spoke he saw a grin spread over Sam’s face and knew that he was happy with his suggestion. Sam replied saying it sounded great and this time Dom grinned at Sam and then Sam said that they could watch another movie after and it would be his choice and Dom had a fair idea which movie that would be as well. Dom then replied to Sam, “Sounds good to me too my darling.” Dom had then taken Sam’s hand and began to lead him through into the living room.

Once there Dom made his way over to the dvd unit and soon pulled out ‘Love Actually’ and slotted it into the dvd player and then made his way back over to the sofa and once Sam was in place Dom sat down and slowly swung his legs up and then lay down with his head on Sam’s lap like he had said he wanted to do. While waiting for the movie menu to come up so he could press play he looked up at Sam from where he was positioned, “I do love you so much my darling Prince and can’t thank you enough for everything you have done for me since I got out of the hospital, you do know that right?” He said softly and then sat up briefly to give Sam a soft and tender kiss on the lips and then moved back down again. “Maybe you could play with my hair while we watch it; you know how much that relaxes me.” Dom suggested and then picked up the remote and pressed the play button.