by
With time running out, can Tobias and Malik find a way to be together forever or are they destined for a lonely Christmas?
Tobias Prince was only in the park to help set for the town’s Winter holiday decorations. He didn’t mean to hide away in cedar hedges. He certainly didn’t expect to run into an alien cyborg.
But when Malik the cyborg followed him home, he accepted it. What else does one do when an alien follows them?
Malik Io’s only hope for returning to the stars is to find a resident of the planet and pray they’re willing to help. When he meets Tobias, he’s struck by the young man’s bravado and innate kindness. He wants to be a part of Tobias’s life and he hopes that he can do the same for Tobias.
With Christmas baking, Light Up nights and parades, Malik and Tobias slowly fall in love during the holiday season, even though they both know their time together is limited.
Can they find a way to be together or will this be one last holiday fling?
Editors:
Cover Artists:
Genres:
Pairings: M-M
Heat Level: 3
Romantic Content: 1
Ending: Click here to reveal
Character Identities: Gay
Protagonist 1 Age: 26-35
Protagonist 2 Age: 36-45
Tropes: Age Difference, Forced Proximity
Word Count: 50000
Setting: Ontario, Canada
Languages Available: English
Series Type: Same Universe / Various Characters
Malik followed Tobias through a narrow hallway to a clean and modern kitchen. A large fridge and stove dominated the space. Cupboards and counters covered one wall, and a large island stood in the centre of the room. It was a community area, and it was comforting and cozy, despite the metallic appliances. Tobias filled the kettle from a water cooler and placed it on the stove before facing Malik.
“I don’t know what exactly is going on, but you have to admit, your presence can be a bit creepy.” Tobias pitched his voice low, so the sound of the overhead fan muffled it.
“I honestly need your assistance. You were the first person who seemed to understand I wasn’t a weirdo or monster.” Malik crossed his arms and leaned on the far counter, tired of the accusations in Tobias’s voice. “I might change my mind though.”
READ MORE“You have a HAL eye and…and other dangerous embellishments. What if you’re from the future and you’re ready to turn us into your…” Tobias’s voice dropped even further, while a red stain spread across Tobias’s cheeks. Malik grinned and shook his head as Tobias trailed off. His curiosity about Tobias’s thoughts drove him crazy.
“My what? I don’t understand,” Malik teased. He couldn’t help himself. Tobias’s bright blush and shy eyes brought out the devil in Malik.
Tobias flushed a deeper red, and his mouth gaped like some sort of fish as he tried to explain. Malik was tempted to let him swing, but despite Tobias's prickly ways, he did seem very innocent and protective.
“Anyway,” Malik sighed and sat on a wooden stool. His leg muscles twinged as the weight of his armour pulled on him. “I don’t require much. If you can offer a solution to locating a few key items, I would appreciate it. My scans told me your planet has these metals and minerals in abundance. Trying to source it is the problem.”
Tobias busied himself with the kettle as it began to whistle. Malik studied the sharp profile with a wistful air. He hoped Tobias would aid him. Tobias’s suspicious nature mixed with his sincerity drew Malik in, and he was so curious about life on this planet.
“Can I count on you?” Malik asked pointedly when Tobias faced him. He had four mugs filled to the brim with whipped cream, and the rich scent smelled like heaven. Malik hadn’t even noticed when Tobias grabbed the supplies.
“I can try, for sure. But you have to explain more about your mission and who you are in better detail.” Tobias held up a finger as Malik opened his mouth. He jerked his chin toward the front of the house, where Callie and Rory waited. “Carry those two to the front. This isn’t just about me. Callie and Rory have to hear it as well.”
“I realize that, but…” Malik trailed off as he carried the two very hot mugs by their handles. Tobias ignored him as he led the way back to where Rory sat on the edge of the couch, and Callie was draped over the rest.
“What exactly do you require from us?” Tobias asked. His eyes were more serious than Malik expected them to be. And his doubts regarding Tobias’s willingness to help seemed to drift away in the face of the quiet determination gazing back at him.
COLLAPSE
