quinn griffith

Tremble for yourself, my man, You know that you have seen this all before. Tremble little lion man, You'll never settle any of your scores. Your grace is wasted in your face, Your boldness stands alone among the wreck. Now learn from your mother or else spend your days biting your own neck. 34. submissive. etiquette professor.

[littlelionquinn]

domashworth​:

    There was a moment where James wanted to stop what they were doing. Where he wanted to address the fact that Quinn was taking on so much already. He practically threw himself into his work. His boy liked to be organized and he liked to do things well. James sometimes wondered if this was part of his submissive nature–always wanting to make sure he was being a good boy–always in search of some sort of praise worthy actions to show for his ability.

    James had always admired Quinn’s work ethic. There was a part of him that found the thought of an accomplished submissive just as appealing as having a prize winner at home. Yet James couldn’t help but acknowledge that any shortcomings he attributed to Quinn were due to his own expectations of what a submissive should be. He’d thought Quinn knew that his demure and pliant nature was partly what had attracted him in the first place. The way he was so willing and the way he had so fully embraced his submissive nature. He was beginning to see that side of Quinn less and less in recent months. Perhaps recent years, if he was more honest.

      Yet seeing Quinn standing before him, looking to James for some mixture of approval and guidance, had the Dominant forgetting all of that. He felt his pants tighten at his sub’s beautiful body. That body was his. Just like James’ body belonged to Quinn. They were wholly unto each other.

  “Look at you,” he said softly. “Reminds me of our claiming night.” James smirked. Walked forward. His fingertip curled in on itself and his knuckle brushed along the contour of Quinn’s pec muscle and he watched Quinn’s face as he flicked his nipple. It was beginning to peak in the cooler air of the bedroom; it being fall and the temperature change causing uncertain fluctuations in all the indoor buildings. “You were so…perfect. A little timid and shy.” There was teasing in James’ voice and fondness as he recalled all the little details. Were these recollections true? Or had James embellished a little in the eye of his memory? He couldn’t tell. Everything seemed rosier in the beginning.

  James brought that same curled knuckle beneath Quinn’s chin and brought his gaze to meet James’ gaze. He swallowed. His focus darted from Quinn’s eyes, to his nose, to his chin, and back again. He made a sound in his throat. “Mm.” James leaned forward and captured Quinn’s lips in his own, tilting his claim’s chin up, deepening the kiss. He was taking what was his. Taking pleasure in it. Indulging himself in Quinn’s lips. His perfect lips. James didn’t break away until they both were almost out of air. “Feel me,” he said. A glance down to his bulge. “Feel what you do to me.”

    “What’s it make you wanna do, darling boy?”

There were so many words left unsaid. He knew it - James knew it, too. Yet neither of them had the mind to speak them. Quinn didn’t know what the other was thinking exactly, even if he could guess the tone. Was he concerned about Quinn’s school work? Or was he concerned it was something beyond that which took his time? But then, such concern would be justified. The submissive hated lying to James, keeping this from him and betraying him. Before Riley, he’d never realized how lackluster his life was, how comfortable he’d become in the mundane and not-quite-enough. But it wasn’t James’ fault. Did he ever have similar thoughts, too?

But he couldn’t think of such things now. Not when his claim was looking at him with heated eyes. His words gentle and commanding at the same time. There was a reason Quinn had been, and still was, attracted to him. James’ demeanor, his personality, his way with control. All things Quinn had been drawn to. And those things that still made his skin prickle with goosebumps and his stomach fill with butterflies.

He didn’t look back up until James moved forward, their bodies much closer now. The other’s tone, his reaction, it was enough to stir his own excitement. There was a quick intake of breath at the touch to his nipple, Quinn’s body continuing to react. He was completely bare, his every reaction on display, and then James, all clothed and commanding presence. But that just turned him on.

Their claiming night. It had been wonderful. For all the uncertainties now, Quinn knew that their early time together was everything he had hoped for. ‘You were so perfect.’ Were. Not anymore. Had James even meant it like that or even realized his own word choice? Something he felt though, surely, at least on some level. “You were perfect, too,” he replied, voice soft. Because he was, the night was. Even now the thought of it made his heart skip a beat, half arousal but half genuine feelings.

With the other’s guiding touch, Quinn finally met James’ gaze. His eyes were so beautiful. He wondered if his own looked as heated. The kiss made sense, yet it was a little bit of a surprise to Quinn, something he hadn’t expected. But he fell into it easily, body moving forward unconsciously, wanting to be closer. He was breathing heavy when James pulled away, now certain that his eyes were darker too.

There was a quiet whine in the back of his throat, hearing James’ words. He silently obeyed, reaching forward and letting his fingers trace along James’ bulge. They were both hard, then, Quinn’s more visible but James’ just as proud. ‘Feel what you do to me.’ Fuck, Quinn knew he was gone from this point forward. At the question he wasted little time in dropping to his knees, looking up at his Dom. “Makes me wanna feel you,” he said. His hands reached up for James’ pants, but made no move until he was given the okay. “I want to feel more, see more. I....” His words trailed off as pink spread across his cheeks, his gaze tilting down. “I want to please you and.... feel you... feel you inside me.”

[littlelionquinn]

Do you have a favorite student?

I try very hard not to play favorites, and I think I’ve been successful with that. Even if I am friendly with someone, or even know them, this doesn’t affect their grade. But of course, yes, some students are... very enjoyable in their company.

[littlelionquinn]

daddymuhn​:

     Leaning in was a good sign. It meant they had built up some degree of comfort between each other and that Riley was perfectly justified in mirroring that action, closing the distance between them just a little bit more. Quinn could move as close as he wanted and Riley would always be there to welcome him with open arms. It was the part where he inevitably moved away that the dominant was dreading.

     The way he fought himself to find the right words had Riley convinced he’d crossed a line. He’d witnessed internal conflict like this before with his friends in claims. They didn’t want to say something that made their partner look bad but they couldn’t avoid it if they intended to tell the truth. There was nothing wrong, in Riley’s opinion, in two people falling out of love or realizing that maybe they weren’t meant for each other after all. He’d done it himself and though it had it’s messy moments they were happier apart. He didn’t know if that was the case for Quinn and Professor Ashworth or if it was just wishful thinking on his part. Whatever the state of their relationship, Riley got the impression it was lacking the balance Quinn was looking for.

     Sympathetically he reached out and placed his hand over the older man’s. For once it was meant as genuine comfort and not just teasing. Riley realized that he had asked a deeply personal question and that it hadn’t been easy for Quinn to answer. The least he could do is offer a bit of kindness in return. “I think you’re right about connection.” Riley said it before realizing that the intent of his contact had just changed without him meaning too. Slowly - as not to suggest there was a problem - he pulled away his hand. “I have had partners who’ve made me feel invincible or out of my mind but the intensity of it wasn’t enough. There needs to be something more.”

     “Never?” What an upsetting thought. Surely someone with a face like that had done something terrible just to see if anyone believed he was capable of it. So was he lying? Or had he truly been deprived of adventure? Perhaps they should change that.

     Riley’s laughter was muffled by the cup pressed to his lips. Quinn had no idea what he thought of him - or how often - and if he did it was more than likely they wouldn’t have been able to engage in such civil conversation. He was prepared to correct him when he set the cup down only to get tangled up in another response that left Riley’s mind racing. “Even you?”

Quinn had never talked of such things with a student, at least when it came to personal rather than in theory and semantics. Actually, as he thought about it now, he’d never really talked to anyone about these things outside of his claim. And even then, well, it was clear there left much to be desired. Quinn had never thought himself a prude, though he wondered why this absence wasn’t something he had realized sooner. His own thoughts and desires and fantasies stayed mostly kept inside his mind, and how he’d never even thought to discuss them with anyone - barely even open to himself. And sure, he might blush and stumble through a few words now, but no one had given him this comfort to discuss things like Riley. He felt freer but also that the other genuinely wanted to know and cared. That thought frightened him and excited him both at the same time.

That same train of feeling continued, and Quinn looked up suddenly as he felt the other’s hand on his. It was a small thing but felt like so much, a sincere comfort but also that bit of spark, of wanting more. ‘I think you’re right about connection.’ So did that mean Riley felt it too? He gave a small smile in reply, nodding his head. Not enough, something more - both phrases that tumbled through his mind, even more often now. “How do you know?” He asked, tone genuine and wondering. “How can you tell what seems to fit, what seems right versus that... well, that something more that truly clicks perfectly into place?”

And was it enough of an answer in itself that Quinn posed the question? Because for years things had seemed right. And even now, they didn’t seem wrong, per say. But he knew, when he let himself be entirely truthful, that his match, his claim didn’t fit. Upon closer inspection you could see it, he thought. That mismatched connection that left him constantly aching under his skin, burning for more. Could Riley be that person for him?

A moment later, Quinn stopped himself from frowning when he slipped his hand away. He gave a short shrug. “I’m certain I’ve made mistakes or acted out of turn. But no, I don’t think even then would I, or anyone else, consider it to be a wild thing.” There was a pause before he found the courage to pose his own question. “And you?” He asked, voice a bit lower than before. “Have you ever done anything wild?” The sub nearly felt himself looking away after asking such a question, but he didn’t, making his gaze stay on the other. Still, that didn’t stop him from unconsciously biting at the inside of his lip.

And it seemed that it was too easy for Quinn to get distracted with Riley. That he was so comfortable that his normal filter seemed to be fractured. “Especially me.” The words left his lips before he even understood them, this gut reaction. It took a moment for him to even process such a thought had been said out loud, though his reaction was clear once he realized. His eyes widened slightly, and he fought between trying to explain himself out of the implication or ignoring his own statement entirely. Somehow, he found a third option. “Yes,” he said slowly, not quite meeting the other’s eyes. “Anyone..... Including me.”

[littlelionquinn]

domashworth​:

    James’ lips ticked up in the smallest of tired smiles. He looked upon Quinn’s face as his submissive’s question was asked. James felt that it was classic Quinn to be worried about how he was handling something or what others might think of what he was doing. He had no troubles reassuring the man that there was nothing wrong with his approach. James stroked Quinn’s cheek and stood closer. This sort of proximity had become fewer and farther between over the recent year or so but it felt right whenever James did it without thinking. “I think I’d be worried if you didn’t get into the swing of things early.” James teased. He was organized and they both knew that.

  He lifted his brows in thought. “Are the students to present these topics of etiquette or culture that they’ve chosen?” he asked. “Or are you going to take their suggestions and build a curriculum around them?” James was sure it was likely the former of the two since Quinn had said the project would be semester long but he didn’t want to mistake what Quinn had on his plate. Throwing together a curriculum based on student suggestion was not something he wanted consuming his sub’s time if Quinn was doing it to please them. There were duties at home that he would rather Quinn spent his time on.

    His gaze drifted toward the book he’d put on the shelf. “Oh. No, I just picked one at random.” Honestly, he’d just needed a distraction. He’d been thinking of this upcoming semester and it led to a swirl of thoughts which James rarely shared with Quinn. How he’d wanted, once again, to apply to teach a higher level of Dominance but never did. How the last time he decided not to apply to teach Dominance II or higher James had gone out and gotten drunk and flirted with subs at the bars. How he was trying to be a better man, a better everything, but sometimes felt he was always falling short. ‘Wuthering Heights’ had just been a cosmically ironic result of a random pick.

  James never did answer about his day. That answer was too complicated. Instead he smiled and nodded down the hall. “Let’s go to bed.” He laced his fingers with Quinn’s and tugged him down the hall. Their bed was king sized and lush. Comfortable enough to drag them in on a weekend morning but firm enough to support James’ back. As soon as they entered the bedroom James paused by their closet in the darkened space. He turned on a small lamp and the light cast dimly onto the nightstand. James looked at Quinn up and down, something igniting in his eyes. He’d planned for them to just freshen up and go to sleep but something changed. “Let me see you,” he said quietly. He nodded towards Quinn’s clothes. “All of you.” Take them off. “Show me what’s mine.”

A relaxed sigh came from Quinn at the other’s words. It was small and unconscious, but it was clear that the reassurance settled him. A smile spread onto his features, and that was his simple reply. The touch though, it had his eyes fluttering closed for a moment before he looked at James again.

It was times like this that made Quinn doubt things. How could he not love the man in front of him? But no, he did. It just... wasn’t enough. Not enough feelings, not enough passion. Where was the love he’d read about? All-consuming but understated all at the same time. Oh, of course he knew that prose was often exaggerated, but still, he also knew there was something here, between him and James, that was missing.

He let those thoughts fade away, instead focusing on the topic of his etiquette project. “Yes, they will present their chosen topics at the end. There will be a paper and several smaller assignments as well.” He gave a small tilt of his head. “I certainly am not basing my curriculum specifically around the topics chosen, but I did have them pick early for a reason. I want to make sure and cover areas the students are interested in. Ideally, the students learning more about their topic would flow with the class. I’m not looking for perfect in each of their assignments but rather an increase in their knowledge with each new thing.”

Truthfully, Quinn wondered if that would be an acceptable answer for James. Or rather, a wise answer. They seldom discussed it (though it had come up in the past), but there was always a feeling that the Dom sometimes wished Quinn was less involved in his classes and other school activities.

Still, it was on Quinn too for not broaching the topic either, just as he was failing to do so now. Instead he let himself be lead into their bedroom, familiar comfort sneaking its’ way in as their hands locked together. He had every intention of getting ready for bed, but he stopped with the look on James’ face. At first he didn’t really get the words of the other, though it soon became clear. A shiver ran through Quinn even before he could begin to move. A bit sheepishly, he began taking off his clothes. He liked himself just fine but a strip tease wasn’t exactly up his alley. His movements were.. well, more submissive. Not too fast, not too slow, looking back to James every so often for confirmation this was what he wanted. There was a slight hesitation as he slipped off his briefs (more his own nature than feeling embarrassed), leaving himself fully naked before the other. He caught James’ gaze for a moment before bowing his head. Quinn let out a breath, already feeling his mind and body start to react to whatever it was his Dom had in mind.

[littlelionquinn]

domashworth​:

    James felt himself settle at Quinn’s assurance that everything was good. He never expected disaster but that didn’t mean it would never come knocking. The Dominant lifted his brows. “A project, already?” he was surprised. The both of them sponsored various clubs and classes but he hadn’t expected a project to come up so soon in the start of term. “Must be big,” he said. There was not an ounce of suspicion in his tone. James always felt that Quinn was a good boy and though they were comfortable spending time apart he never suspected Quinn to ever have motives that sometimes crossed his own thoughts.

    “What’s it for?” They could idle on conversation about school if they desired but it was the topics that got them both interested which sometimes caused them to actually engage more thoroughly with each other. Especially topics of literature which they’d shared a love for even in their early years together. Which is why it hadn’t surprised him to hear Quinn’s question about his book. He was always re-reading the books he loved and when he picked up a new one it was with care.

  “An old favorite,” he said. “Wuthering Heights.” A bit melancholy for his tastes but for some reason it had been on his mind lately. He had picked it up but hadn’t been able to turn many of the pages around a half hour into reading. He’d let it keep his lap warm while he gazed out the window. Portsmith was beautiful in any context but James’ favorite was when it was lit up at night. Like someone had grabbed the stars from the sky and scattered them across the horizon.

    James rose from his seat and set the book on the nearby built-in bookshelf just behind his armchair. He swirled the amber liquid in his glass and finished it off. “That’s alright,” he said. “I think I’ve had enough.”

      He cupped Quinn’s chin and gave a little smile. “You’re a good boy,” he said softly. “And what can I do for you?” Dominance, he knew, was not just about entitlement or subservience. It was mutual care. He’d always prided himself in teaching his students that. That’s why the Dominant and submissive worked well together. Their biologies fit within one another and fed into each other. “Are you all settled for classes tomorrow?”

He offered a bit of a smile. “Mm, yes. Do you suppose I started getting into the swing of things a bit too early?” Quinn felt good about his curriculum, his teaching was something he prided himself for. But he also could sometimes be swayed too easily by the opinions of those above him, especially a dominant, and especially his dominant. “It’s nothing too intensive right now. We’re in the stage of students picking their topics and deciding some of their sub-focus areas.”

Would that be suspicious? A student asking to meet with him so early on in a project? Quinn wasn’t sure. There were plenty of over-achievers at the school, afterall, stemming from family pride, societal expectations, and their own competitiveness. “It’s a project on traditions. Students are to pick a tradition, of course within the realms of etiquette and culture. It’s going to be spread out over the next two months though, so I’m going to make sure and cover the basics and general things they’ll need to know.” He gave a nod, half for himself. “What about you? How have your classes been going?”

Wuthering Heights. “Not a happy tale, then. Hope it wasn’t any indication of the tone of your day,” he comments, though his lips are picked up at the edges for a teasing smile. “Sincerely, I do hope you had a good day.” It was one area they were very similar on, their fondness for classics and literature. Perhaps that was why they’d fell together, first a courting and then a claim. Both believed in the importance of such traditions and enjoyed taking part in them. Quinn dwelled on such thoughts as he noticed the other stand, putting his book away.

He nodded to James’ answer, watching as he finished his drink. “Of course,” he said, still waiting for any other request. Quinn let out a breath as the other cupped his skin, his words like sweet honey that so easily stuck to him. ‘Good boy.’ It satisfied the submissive in him yet was met with his own guilt. He pushed the latter thoughts from his head as best he could. “I’m good, thank you,” he came back with, tone a bit softer than earlier. Quinn nodded to the question. “Yes, Sir, everything is prepared.” They both knew of his organization, that he liked having things well and in order. “Should we get ready for bed, then?”

[littlelionquinn]

daddymuhn​:

     Was he talking about his own circumstances? Riley wondered if that was how he’d ended up with Professor Ashworth but didn’t ask. It was too personal for starters, not to mention, incredibly rude to challenge someone’s claim. That’s what he was doing though. Wasn’t he? There was nothing innocent about the way he’d led Quinn to the table or how he spoke to him or brushed their feet against each other. Riley wanted more. He knew the submissive was in a claim and he didn’t care because there was something about him. Something in his essence that demanded knowing despite all the wrongness of it. Did he feel it too?

     That was really the only question that mattered. Could Quinn feel the magnetic force that kept pulling them towards each other? If he didn’t and this whole thing proved to be one-sided than Riley would have backed off. But, as far as the dominant could tell, Quinn had done nothing to push him away. Maybe he was just too polite, too submissive to say anything. Riley didn’t believe that though. There was more to him then met the eye and he needed to know. He needed to understand Quinn with the same desperation he felt towards knowing himself. As if they were one in the same and he would never make sense until the submissive did. Surely it was madness. Would it make sense to Quinn?

     “Have you done much exploring?” he wondered casually. Despite the evennessess of his tone there was no ignoring the mischievous nature of the question. Riley probably shouldn’t have asked this either but it was a different kind of personal and he figured it was safe. He’d heard plenty of other professors talk about their sexual exploits. How was this any different? “Were you wild before you settled down? Or was it Professor Ashworth that let you shine?”

     His first misstep. Perhaps Riley shouldn’t have gone there so soon. Some people didn’t mind talking about biology but for others it was extremely taboo. It was never easy to tell which was which without skirting around the subject. For a moment it seemed like Quinn would be in the latter group. Which was a bit odd considering where he worked but who was Riley to judge? Then he caught the dominant’s gaze and in a rather self assured tone admitted to the joy of submission. Riley could have jumped across the table right then and there and kissed him. If only.

     “No,” Riley shook his head in friendly disagreement. “I am not flattering you nearly enough.” Physical attraction aside there were many admirable things about Quinn. Did he realize that? Did anyone ever tell him? Or, over the years, had he somehow faded to the background of his own story? Did people overlook the spectacular human being right in front of them?

     “My objectives on campus? I should think that’s obvious,” he smiled at Quinn. Why skirt around the truth? “I’m looking for a claim.”

If someone had told Quinn that the other’s thoughts nearly mirrored his own, he wouldn’t have believed them. Even with this connection between them, and his trust in the other, he never would have thought Riley’s mind was occupied with yearning, a desire to know each other, and just to have... more. The submissive wanted to show it, but at the same time didn’t want to be too forward or even worse, misread the signs. Still, without even a conscious thought, he was leaned in towards the other across the table, and his feet didn’t move away when he felt a touch to them.

Quinn knew it was a normal thing at Lowell to discuss acts of dominance and submission, both sexual and not. Yet he’d never really fit into that. He certainly didn’t dislike the topic, but he had been brought up with the mindset of seen and not heard in so many regards. Riley, on the other hand, was clearly comfortable, bold but still well mannered in his questions.

Exploring. He felt like he hardly knew the meaning of the word. Sure, he and James engaged in some kinks and activities, but like their relationship, it skipped that area of passion. “No, I don’t think so,” he replied, though perhaps too quick. He shook his head gently, feeling some guilt over the possibility of making his Dom look bad. “I mean, of course, some things. I just meant more... well, certain areas no but...” Quinn fumbled slightly, his cheeks pink. “I... I was always, and am still, very happy to be in the submissive mindset. It has always fit well with me, even before my claim. Though I am certain he was able to bring it out more.” He avoiding saying James’ name aloud, almost like a reminder of guilt on his lips. “I think, in general, it takes a well-paired dominant for any submissive to truly shine. Two pieces of a puzzle, both enhancing each other.” Though he knew it wasn’t the same for everyone. “For me, at least, I think that balance, that.. connection, is needed.”

Quinn couldn’t help but shake his head. “I don’t think I’ve ever been wild in my life,” he admitted, almost a bittersweet tone as his gaze fell down. Could he truly believe this was what Riley wanted? This handsome young dominant for some reason giving his extra time to him? Quinn was happy enough with himself, but he was almost resigned to this comfortable, if colorless, path he was set on.

But then how could he not hope for more? 'I am not flattering you nearly enough.’ A simple sentence that left Quinn feeling something in this nearly forgotten place in his chest. He looked back up to Riley then. “Perhaps you think too highly of me.” It wasn’t a judgment, more close to a warning. How could he give the other what he wanted, what he deserved? A good claim with a more adventurous submissive. “Of course,” he replied in a small tone, missing the other’s meaning in his answer. “I’m certain, Riley, you will make a wonderful match at Lowell. Any man could only dream of finding a claim as good as you.”

[domeverett]

Late | Quames.

@littlelionquinn​

      Quinn had told him he’d be with a student tonight. Both of them being instructors meant that they each understood what the life of a boarding school teacher was like. They were both invested in the educations and futures of their pupils and often spent many hours outside of class time to give students the best of themselves. It might have made for great education but it didn’t make for the best personal time.

    Normally James would have plenty to work on but he’d been planning for the beginning of Fall term for at least a couple months now and as such he was prepared this time around. He didn’t have much to do as the first week of class started except to sit back and let his planning take care of things. Which meant that it was more noticeable this time when Quinn was late to come home.

  Their little home in Concord Meadows was beautiful and large. Quinn did a decent job taking care of it but their busyness left room for improvement. James sipped at a glass of scotch as he looked out the window from his armchair, book resting facedown on his lap. He’d been that way for quite some time when he finally heard the door. James didn’t move at first, keeping still in the dim lighting of the living room.

      “You’re out late,” he said by way of greeting. He smacked his lips gently together, tasting the afterburn of the scotch in his throat. “Everything okay?” He hoped it wasn’t an issue with one of the students. Though, there was something in his gut that said it was more.

[littlelionquinn]

His night out had certainly gone.... different than he’d expected. To be fair though, Quinn hadn’t been entirely sure exactly what he had expected. He had inclinations, sure, but things had gotten more... intimate than he had imagined (except in his dreams) or planned. Coming back to campus now, he was full of mixed emotions, guilt, excitement, shame, satisfaction. Knowing that his Dom would likely be back at the house, he made a stop at the bathroom near his office. The brunette worked to pull himself together, calming himself and fixing any part of himself that seemed amiss. Pushing thoughts of what had happened from his mind, he made his way back to his and James’ shared quarters.

Quinn came inside, neatly putting his keys and satchel away at the side table. Slipping off his shoes, he put them on the shoe rack in the entry closet. Perhaps he could be better about the decor in their home, but he did always make sure things were neat. He had moved halfway into the living room before he even noticed the other, sitting almost in the dark.

“James,” he greeted, turning on one of the lights before walking in closer. The other’s words weren’t an accusation, not really, but he still felt his cheeks flush slightly. “Yes, Sir,” he agreed, bowing his head a bit in a show of respect. He held it for a moment before looking back at the other, a reassuring smile on his lips. “Everything is good.” Not true, but how long had Quinn said the same, even before he’d taken things too far with another? “We were discussing an upcoming project. It went on for longer than expected. I’m sorry to keep you waiting.”

Taking in his dominant, Quinn noticed the glass of whiskey in his hand and book in his lap. “New book or old favorite?” He asked. They’d been together long enough for conversation and other things to fall into place in an easy, casual manner. He then nodded to the glass. “If you need anything, I’d be happy to get it for you.” Otherwise, Quinn remained in place, not moving forward or out of the room but rather waiting for the other’s direction.

[littlelionquinn]

daddymuhn​:

     “I won’t pretend I don’t like to consider my options.” He’d had half the menu before he settled on this coffee and it was a considerable list. The others lacked a certain balance though. They were too much of one thing and not enough of another. But this one, it was  a little bitter, a little buttery, and a bit of sweet, perfect in its complexity. Surely Quinn could appreciate that and wouldn’t fault him for his adventurous nature.

     Riley liked the best of all things, which meant he could be a rather picky when it came down to it. The dominant liked to think he wasn’t selective in a rude or uncaring manner. He didn’t go through cup after cup or person after person without any regard for what came before it. That sort of indifference was cruel and he didn’t have the patience for it. But Riley knew what he wanted out of life. That wasn’t the same as being an arrogant prick who liked to string people along until something better came up. At least he didn’t think so. “But I know what I like once I’ve found it and I’m incredibly loyal when I have.”

     That extended to Quinn. Did he realize that? Or was he willfully ignoring it?

    He could spend all day watching the submissive. Getting acquainted with how pink his cheeks turned when he was embarrassed compared to when he was angry. Or seeing what made him so anxious he played with the edges of his sleeves. If he got too flustered would he run his hands through his hair? Or did he only do that when he was feeling carefree? Had he licked his lips because he didn’t know what to say? Or because he didn’t think he could say what he wanted? Riley had a million and one questions that he was more than eager to learn the answer too. Would Quinn let him?

     “Do you like it?” Another question - one he wasn’t sure the submissive would answer. There was no shame in it. Really, it made perfect sense that he would. All subs weren’t created equal though. Just because they had to submit didn’t mean they enjoyed it. Riley had thought it was too personal of a question to ask but now that the opportunity had come up - why not?

     He set the cream back down on the table and reached for his own cup. Normally it was rather satisfying but at the moment everything seemed dull compared to Quinn. “Hidden hallways and secret rooms?” Was it an offer he wondered. Could they run away to them and get up to no good without anyone knowing? “Sounds like I have more to learn from you than I thought. You’re full of surprises, aren’t you Quinn?”

At the other’s answer, Quinn nodded his head. He liked to think that he understood Riley, that they understood each other, really. Sure, their time together hadn’t been that long, but again, there was that connection. Sometimes it felt like he’d known the other man for years rather than months. Though perhaps that was just his own wishful thinking. As if something could have would have been different if the two had met years ago, or even now under different circumstances.

“I can understand that,” he replied, nodding gently. Quinn took a sip from his drink, thinking over his own answer. “I think.. I think sometimes people can make decisions too fast, too early. Not even with ill intentions but because these things... happen. Whether societal or family pressures or even from oneself.” He gave a small, unconscious sigh before his tone was lighter again. “I certainly think that being loyal and finding out what you like can go together - should go together really. How else would you find out what you liked, what you truly wanted?” Was he talking too much? Giving too much of himself away? The thoughts worried him for a moment, but so help him, he trusted Riley.

Even with that trust, the next question surprised him. So much so that Quinn’s eyes widened slightly. His mouth opened, staying still for a moment before he could speak. Well, if you’d call one word speaking. “I...” He trailed off, not upset by the question but certainly not expecting it. “Yes,” Quinn managed after another moment, voice more sure. He caught Riley’s gaze and kept it, feeling a bit frazzled but wanting to make it clear he was telling the truth - not merely saying yes for the other’s benefit. “Submitting makes me happy, makes me feel good. And I know that’s part of my make-up as a submissive, but... it’s more than that. I like giving up that sense of control, especially with-- well, with certain people.”

He managed to get through that without his cheeks darkening too much, at least in his mind. Quinn’s smile picked back up as Riley talked. “I’m sure they’re still around, you know Lowell likes to keep its’ history.” Even he was finding it hard to believe his own boldness, though it was said in subtle ways rather than an outright invitation. A soft laugh came from him - he’d never been one to be called full of surprises. “I think you’re flattering me too much,” Quinn mused. “Besides, I’m sure you’re full of your own ideas and wants of adventure. What’s something you’d like to do on campus? Something you’d like to achieve but also... more fun things too.”

[littlelionquinn]

daddymuhn​:

     When he didn’t shirk away from his hand Riley took it as a sign. The same way his acceptance of the coffee and validating statements were a sign. He could have chalked it up as kindness but he’d learned enough in etiquette to know it didn’t normally extend this far. Quinn was letting him do these things. In fact he was practically leaning in to them. As if he was waiting for Riley to step over that line the pair of them had been toeing. Did he want him to? The dominant had swore to himself that he would be patient. There were more complications here than just the usual. Quinn had a claim. A very well known claim. While he wasn’t particularly concerned about upsetting mark he didn’t want to make things harder for the submissive. The last thing Riley wanted was to ruin his life over a flirtation that might have amounted to nothing.

     Discretion was key. That was the reason he had opted for somewhere off campus. Why he preferred a table out of the center of the room. It was also the reason he’d sat across from Quinn and not beside him. No one would be paying attention when he relaxed in his chair a bit. Enough so that his foot brushed against the professor’s and if he dared to, he could place his hand on Quinn’s thigh without anyone seeing. Would he let Riley? More importantly, would he like it? There was nothing more disappointing than a submissive letting something happen because they thought they had too.

     Riley watched as he tasted the coffee. Enjoying the puckered shape of Quinn’s lips as he attempted to cool it down. They looked soft and his impulses were telling him to just lean across the table and kiss the other man but he didn’t. He would behave. He would focus on the slight bitterness of his own coffee, the sweet hints of butterscotch and cream. He certainly would not think about how it would taste better on Quinn’s tongue. “Yes, it’s a staple.”

     “You don’t have to ask permission with me professor.” He reached for the cream and began to pour it into the submissive’s cup. “Tell me when to stop.” All the while he held Quinn’s gaze.

     Placing the small pitcher back on the table he sank a little deeper in his seat, ankle brushing agains the other male, as he feet pushed further. If they were closer one of Riley’s legs would have been between Quinn’s thighs and he wondered if that thought entered the professor as much as it enticed him. “Since I first began at Lowell. Campus is beautiful but it is nice to get away. Clear my head with a bit of coffee so that I can focus more closely on my studies. This was the only open table the first time I came. I suppose I’m a creature of habit.”

     “Where did you hide out when you were in school? Don’t tell me you were by the book and spent all your time in the library.”

He was just being polite, right? Acting as a good professor, good submissive, falling into Riley’s lead. It was almost a lie Quinn could believe, something he’d repeated to himself several times before when it came to.... well, whatever this was between them. It was a genuine connection, attraction, and not so deep down, Quinn knew that this wasn’t just some game, at least on his part. Either way, it didn’t take too much observation to know they were slipping, and so easily at that, into something more. Still, often times with the other, Quinn pushed his own feelings aside, resolved for these wants and curiosities to stay merely in his subconscious, not to be felt or acknowledged. Though, that seemed to be working less and less.

Enough of that plan remained intact though, for Quinn to not let himself think anything as Riley’s foot brushed against his own. Must have been an accident, right? His gaze fell on the other for a moment at the contact, though he quickly looked down again, attention back to his coffee. “Do you always know what you like?” He asked, after Riley’s explanation of the coffee being a staple of his. “I mean, are you someone who likes to try every option? Or more so the type to see something, want it, and make up your mind?”

‘You don’t have to ask permission with me, professor.’ Quinn was sure he could feel the pink at his cheeks at the comment from the other. Licking his lips almost nervously, he nodded in reply. “I know, Riley, it’s just that I--” The man cut himself off. Just what, that he liked asking for permission? How could he say that? Even if it was clearly true. Especially with Riley. “I just don’t mind,” he managed. Because how could he admit to wanting to submit, to please the other man with his actions and attitude? (And with words, his body, a distant voice inside him said.) Quinn was so focused on the thoughts that he barely remembered to tell Riley when to stop, leaving his coffee more full of cream than he’d originally intended. “Thank you,” he murmured, pulling back his mug and taking a drink.

Quinn’s gaze didn’t lock with the other’s until he felt it again, that almost innocent touch to his leg. Twice wasn’t just a coincidence, right? "Yes,” he agreed, finding it better to continue with the conversation than to let himself stew. “I think a change of atmosphere can be very beneficial, and it’s always good to find some place that you feel comfortable and productive.” Nerves lessened, Quinn smiled softly at Riley’s question. “Ah, can’t say that I was, or am, as adventurous as you. I wouldn’t say I spent all my time in the library but certainly a fair amount of it, as well as in the gardens. Though,” he leaned in closer, as if telling some big secret, which to him, it sort of was. “I did find a few hidden hallways and rooms on campus. Admittedly I didn’t spend much time in them though, never wanted to get caught where I shouldn’t be.” Quinn paused then, a thoughtful look on his features before he focused again on Riley. “Though maybe I am braver now than then, or at least care... a bit less about should and shouldn’t’s. Perhaps I could find them once again.”

[littlelionquinn]

daddymuhn​:

      As any businessman knew, 5pm was after hours, which meant there was a bit of leeway where wardrobe was concerned. When he was in class Riley made sure not to wear anything that would be deemed too distracting. It was a problem more common among submissives (and not the dominants who couldn’t seem to control themselves) but he tried to be courteous no less. Outside the confines of Lowell and just beyond the reach of their prying eyes it didn’t matter how many buttons he wore undone or how close he sat to a claimed professor.

     He frequented the small cafe so often he had his own designated table, tucked away in the corner away from prying eyes. Normally he went there to study but tonight things had the potential to be more interesting. Calling ahead to make sure it was open, Riley took the liberty of ordering for himself and Quinn. He had no baseline for what sort of brew the professor liked or if he was actually a tea man underneath all those sport coats. It didn’t matter really. Riley had done it as a baseline test more than anything. Would Quinn accept he was given? Or was he the sort of submissive with enough nerve to speak up for himself? In the end, the answer to that was more important than whether or not he enjoyed a Colombian dark roast with hints of butterscotch and a touch of sweet cream. It would tell Riley everything he needed to know about the right way keep the professor’s attention.

     Stepping through the door just after five he caught sight of Quinn. The professor was more that a little enjoyable to look at from behind but Riley couldn’t get caught up in those thoughts now.

      “We’re just back here,” he nodded in the general direction of his table, a hand pressed to the small of Quinn’s back, as he lead the other male to his corner. Shortly after they sat down a barista placed two mugs on the table. Riley gave him a grateful smile. “I hope you don’t mind. You said you’d never been. I figured I’d let you in on their best kept secret.”

Quinn only had a few moments to himself, hand fiddling with his jacket sleeve now that he didn’t have his school satchel. He was relieved to lock eyes with Riley, giving a small smile as the other came towards him. “All right,” he answered, giving a nod. Feeling a hand at the small of his back, he easily followed the other’s guided pace. Again, it was only too natural for him to fall into Riley’s lead, that submissive part of him buzzing with comfort and excitement.

Taking his seat at their table, Quinn shrugged off his jacket, neatly hanging it on the back of the chair behind him. Just as soon as he’d finished, two mugs were brought to them. A little surprised, he looked up to Riley who was smiling back at him and soon explaining he’d ordered for them. “Oh,” he said, pulling the cup of coffee towards him. “Thank you.” His tone was soft but genuine, and he offered a warm smile back at the other. “I don’t mind at all. I trust your judgment, as I said before.”

With that, he picked up the mug, blowing gently and taking a good whiff. It was strong but not overpowering, with some sort of sweetness added in. Quinn continued to blow softly, as his gaze took in the other. A few buttons undone on a dominant’s shirt shouldn’t be such a distraction, yet Quinn had found it hard not to look from the moment he spotted the brief expanse of skin that usually wasn’t on display. But he was nothing if not a well-mannered man, and his eyes only lingered for a second (or maybe a few). 

As nearly a change of topic for himself, the older man raised his cup to his lips, blowing again before finally taking a sip. It was darker than what he usually picked for himself, but it was smooth and left a nice coating on his tongue. He took another few sips before focusing on Riley again. “It’s very nice,” he said honestly, smiling again. “You have good taste. Did you get the same?” Quinn licked his lips, only hesitating slightly before his hand reached out sheepishly for the extras. “Ah, could I get just a bit more of cream? I’ve always liked things a bit sweet, hope that’s all right.” And even with the question, he waited for the other’s answer before continuing.

“How long have you been coming here?” He asked, taking another look around the cafe. It really was a nice place, and their table seemed perfectly picked a bit away from the others, no doubt good for studying or talking even with the background noise. "I take it this is your usual table?” Quinn questioned, a bit of a teasing smile. The other had lead them directly over here, afterall. “I appreciate being privy to these best kept secrets, as you said.” Maybe that was a bit too much, too familiar, but it was already said, so Quinn was happy enough to push back his nerves with another drink of his coffee.

[littlelionquinn]

daddymuhn​:

      The thought of being seen as just another student didn’t settle well with Riley but that would change soon enough. Quinn’s resolve had been steadily softening and it was only a matter of time before the dominant would be free to push the limits of acceptability. Cross the line between familiar and intimate, flooding the submissive’s brain with thoughts of him, so that Riley was never far from his mind. Much the· way Quinn had been since he’d first seen him delivering lunch to his claim.

     Breaking up a happy home wasn’t normally Riley’s style. There were plenty of single switches and submissives he could have occupied himself with. Hell, most of the school looking for someone to settle down with. He would choose· the difficult road though, falling for someone that was already taken and probably not the slightest bit interested in turning his life upside down. The closer he got to Quinn though the less certain he was of that fact. They may not have hit the point of no return but they were moving towards it and he’d yet to see any hesitation.

      “I could always be doing better. It’s important to have good grades if I want to impress my future claim. Don’t you think?” A smile crossed his lips as Quinn played with the strap of his bag. Was her nervous? Because of Riley? That was as good a sign as any. Maybe there was hope after all. “Topped Off isn’t far from here. It’s bigger than the school cafe and they’ve got a great house roast. We can meet there around five?“

      If he was smarter he wouldn’t have given Riley such an extended timetable. Or maybe that was the point. Was he inviting the dominant to draw this out? Challenging him to progress things a bit further? Did he think that Riley wouldn’t? It was a common assumption where he was concerned but Quinn would be disappointed. He’d never once failed to rise to the occasion.

“Of course,” the older man replied, giving a short nod of his head. “It is important to have a thorough dedication to your studies.” His contented smile dropped a bit at the other mentioning a claim. Quinn knew himself it was an unfair reaction, though he couldn’t shake it. Riley would make a wonderful claim and partner someday, that was clear. Still, he would be lying if he said he didn’t hope that day was still a ways off. “I’m happy to work with you and improve in any manner, but I do hope you keep up that confidence in yourself and know how well you are doing. I see it, and I hope you do too. Truly, it’s something to be proud of.”

If there was the faintest bit of color to his cheeks after that, Quinn paid it no mind. “Topped Off? I haven’t been there before, but I am certainly up for trying new things. I’ll trust your judgment.” He gave an easy smile. Even if this wasn’t his dominant, it was just so natural for Quinn to fall into the other’s lead. Maybe that wasn’t a good thing, but he’d meant what he’d said: Riley was a good student, a good person, and a very good Dominant, at least in his eyes. “Yes, five o’clock, that sounds perfect. I’ll meet you there, then.”

-

It took longer than he’d care to admit to pick out an outfit for the evening. Quinn usually dressed more casual when going out, but he still wanted to make sure he was being professional - this was a student/teacher meeting afterall. After he’d finally settled on his choice, it was already time to head out. Quinn had made sure to tell Mark that he was going out to meet with a student, nearly as soon as he’d walked in the door. And despite the bit of butterflies in his own stomach, his dominant didn’t seem to pay the matter any mind, simply giving a wave goodbye.

Quinn did his best to get all of his fidgeting out in the drive over, his fingers tapping quietly against the seats of the valet car. Arriving at the cafe, he thanked the driver before heading inside. Stepping inside, it was easy to tell already that Quinn enjoyed the atmosphere of the place. He’d always been one for coffee and lounges and thoughtful conversations, and it almost fit too well with his job description. Taking a small breath in and out, he let his eyes scan the cafe, looking for the younger man.

[littlelionquinn]

Professor Quinn Griffith

[littlelionquinn]

daddymuhn​:

     School had always come easy to Riley. Education had been his parents main priority when he was growing up and there was no room for anything but perfection. Intelligent dominants made better matches, which resulted in longer and more prosperous claims. Meaning, whether he liked it or not, he spent his formative years with his head stuck in a book, grooming himself for they day he’d take on a submissive of his own. But, much to the dismay of his parents, Riley preferred learning more than marriage prospects.

     Up until recently he hadn’t shown the slightest interest in settling down. At twenty-nine he’d been in enough relationships to know that partners could get everything they needed from each other without one having to own the other. It was an archaic tradition meant for other people. That was before he was enrolled in Dominance III and caught a glimpse of Quinn by chance. 

     It was a mystery how they’d never crossed paths before. Riley wasn’t exactly new to the university. He’d been getting by on his grades and minimal social effort for years. Sure, he’d spent the majority of his time hiding out in the library but he wasn’t completely oblivious. Or maybe he was. It certainly felt that way once Quinn came into the picture.

     “I was just wondering sir,  if you’d be willing to discuss possible topics with me over coffee? You see my family has a lot of different traditions and I never can tell which are normal here and which are not. I’d really appreciate your guidance on the matter. It’s very important that I do well in this class,” he said with a smile. There was always the chance he’d say no and Riley would have to figure it out for himself. He got the impression that wouldn’t happen though. If he’d learned anything over the last few weeks a bit of persuasion and flirting went a long way.

Like the other, it had taken Quinn a bit of time to notice Riley. He hadn’t realized his own first appearance when visiting his own claim/dominant Mark’s classroom one day, innocently handing off the lunch he’d forgotten. So it wasn’t until Riley was enrolled in his class that Quinn finally saw him. Even now he remembered it perfectly, the first day of classes, this attractive Dominant sitting near the front, kind eyes but a curved up smile like he had something to prove.

It had been too easy since then, to find himself growing closer to the student, inch by inch. It had never gotten truly inappropriate, but Quinn knew that they both knew it was skirting a line. The older man had tried to stave off any flirtations or less than subtle looks, but he usually failed. Probably because he didn’t actually want to succeed, didn’t actually want to stop the little pulses of excitement that went off whenever they were near each other.

Quinn nodded slowly to the other’s explanation. He was a professor, and this was a Dominant asking for class help no less - it wasn’t like he could say no even if he wanted to. And well, he didn’t want to anyway. “Yes, certainly. I’m always willing. Ah, to talk to a student, of course.” And he was already fumbling a bit, fantastic. “Though I must say, you’re doing well very in this class so far, Riley. You have good instincts and obvious understanding of the material.” He gave a small, genuine smile. Whatever these feelings were, Riley was a good student regardless.

“But yes, coffee. And we can discuss more traditions and your topic for the project. Was there some place you had in mind?” His hand fiddled lightly with the strap of his bag. “I’ll need to go back to my quarters for a bit first, but I have the rest of the evening free if that suits you.”

[littlelionquinn]

@daddymuhn​

"All right everyone, that will be it for today. Please remember that your project drafts are due next week for your chosen tradition. They do not need to be perfect, but I expect a complete outline and some general subtopic ideas. I have open office hours for the next several days, so please feel free to stop by if you have any questions.” With a warm but professional smile, Quinn gestured towards the door before clasping his hands in front of him. It didn’t take long for the students to begin filing out, though he remained standing for a moment in case anyone should want to talk to him.

It was his last class for the day, and already the submissive wished for it to be morning again. Lately, he’d found his mind drifting, unsettled. It was easier to keep busy than to dwell on these feelings, and being in front of a class certainly was a good distraction. Though, it worked pointedly less so when a certain student was who he was in front of. A certain student who was at least partially causing these drifting thoughts, to be sure.

With a nod, he moved back to his desk as the last bunch of students headed towards the door. Slowly, Quinn packed up his own things, neatly putting his books and notes instead his satchel. He put away his glasses as well, giving an absent rub at his eyes in the process. Looking around, he gave a quick glance to make sure he’d gotten everything. Now though, Quinn noticed that there was still one student lingering in the classroom.

“Yes,” he said, voice small but assured. It was clear even now that he was attempting to maintain some normalcy, like this wasn’t the very student that gave him pause. “Is there something I can help you with, Mr. Muhn?”