"Alexander, it's wonderful to see you! It feels like ages since your last visit! Everything's prepared just as you instructed! I took care of everything myself," she said, her eyes crinkling with genuine affection. Daniel couldn't help but marvel at Alexander's undeniable charm, his uncanny ability to win over anyone with his warm attentiveness. Yet, that charm had no effect on Daniel whatsoever.

"Hello, Alyssa. Shh, let's keep it a surprise," Alexander said with a grin, placing a finger on his lips for emphasis. Alyssa stopped herself mid-sentence, cast a curious glance at Daniel, who greeted her with a soft hello, and winked in return.

"Hello. This is unexpected. But what's with the attire?"

"I dress with my eyes closed," Alexander quipped. "Which room should we head to?"

"The first room!" Alyssa pointed with her chubby finger in the correct direction and added, "Do you need me to guide you or do you remember the way?"

"I remember," Alexander extracted a dark maroon handkerchief from his pocket and whispered to Daniel, "Please turn around." He then blindfolded him. The smooth texture of the fabric felt soothing against Daniel's skin, but the ensuing darkness heightened his vulnerability, causing him to tense up.

"Trust me," Alexander murmured, gripping Daniel's shoulders firmly and guiding him forward. Daniel moved cautiously, extending his hands instinctively, attempting to count his steps. Upon reaching thirty-two, he was guided to the right and led into what seemed like another room, judging by the sound of the door creaking open. Warm hands momentarily left his shoulders and then returned, removing his jacket and cardigan, unfastening his belt buckle... Daniel let out a shaky sigh, stepping compliantly out of his lowered pants. His exposed legs were tingling with goosebumps, quivering as Alexander's hands traced his calves and briefly clasped his ankles. A strong urge surged within Daniel to tear off the blindfold and confront his fear. He reached for the handkerchief, but Alexander quickly interjected.

"I'm just changing your clothes. Relax."

Alexander took his time changing, clearly relishing the process as he caressed Daniel's skin and briefly brushed his lips against the exposed areas.

By the end, Daniel was sweaty and drained. When Alexander began to slip on tall boots over the snug breeches, Daniel realized the reason behind the ordeal of changing clothes. However, he chose to remain silent. It was easier to let Alexander find joy in such minor things than he demands bigger ones.

He was led through a lengthy, straight hallway and then into the backyard. A blend of strong scents filled his nostrils: the fresh, invigorating air carried new undertones of manure, acrid horse sweat, and saddle leather.

"Take a look," Alexander removed the blindfold, revealing two horses - one brown and one white - being held by stableboys' reins. "Do you like them?"

"They're stunning," Daniel responded with a touch of melancholy, casting a wary glance at the large, snorting muzzles.

"You've never ridden before?"

Alexander looked pleased, as if he'd just presented Daniel with the world's most marvelous gift.

"No, I haven't. I don't know how."

"Choose the white one. Yashka is gentle; he won't buck you off. Let me guide him for a bit," Alexander said, leading the calmer-looking white horse forward, its ears flicking back and forth and hooves tapping the ground. "Offer him a treat, it'll help him warm up to you. Place it in your palm," he instructed, placing a half-eaten, oxidized apple in Daniel's hand. Daniel hesitantly reached out to the large muzzle, and Yashka delicately accepted the apple with his lips, letting out a soft noise of contentment. The mixture of apple juice and a hint of horse saliva on his palm somehow eased his apprehension.

Daniel settled onto the horse, trying to dismiss the attentive manner in which Alexander adjusted his position, placing a hand reassuringly on his thigh.

The stable boy, appearing youthful and somewhat like a student, gave his instructions with earnestness.

"Hold the reins gently; don't yank them. Only tighten if he suddenly speeds up. To turn, gently pull in the desired direction. Avoid kicking him; horses dislike it. Yashka is gentle and responsive; he'll provide you with a pleasant ride. If you want him to pick up speed, give him a little cluck."

"Thank you," Daniel grasped the reins, shifting uncomfortably in the firm saddle that he had imagined would be more cushioned, and cleared his throat. Yashka began to move forward, causing Daniel to wobble awkwardly in the saddle. Alexander mounted his own horse and chuckled gleefully as he observed Daniel's clumsy attempts to find balance.

Despite gripping the saddle's pommel for stability, Daniel still wavered from side to side as they exited the stables. In contrast, Alexander rode with confidence, even galloping his horse freely in the open and performing circles around Daniel. It seemed he was either showcasing his own skills or highlighting Daniel's shortcomings, or perhaps...

Daniel was taken aback, reevaluating his recent outings with Alexander through a new lens. Alexander had been wooing him all along! It felt as though the weight of invisible chains, threats, and the horrors of confinement had vanished, replaced by genuine dates and shared experiences. He recalled their visits to the theater, art galleries, motorcycle rides, dining with panoramic views at dusk, exploring an old estate, and now horseback riding. Frustrated, Daniel turned away, gazing towards the woods lining the expansive field. The sheer hypocrisy of Alexander's calm demeanor in the face of his own turmoil was sickening.

Alexander quickly approached, gently taking the reins from Daniel's outstretched hands. The gesture felt symbolic, highlighting Daniel's lack of control over his own life - a reality he'd likely face for a long while. He reluctantly turned back, focusing his gaze beyond the horse's ears.

"Do you dislike it?" Alexander asked softly, leaning in to search Daniel's face.

"I'm not particularly fond of animals," Daniel responded in a neutral tone. "How about you enjoy your ride while I take a walk in the woods?"

"I'd rather we do it together," Alexander murmured with a hint of disappointment. "You're quite hard to please. You seem indifferent to everything: art, technology, even animals. What do you enjoy?"

"Taking walks, jogging in the park, watching movies by myself, reading," Daniel listed with a touch of melancholy, resisting the urge to add, "Living freely."

"Why by yourself?" Alexander asked curiously, leading both horses slowly towards the forest.

"I prefer to enjoy movies without sharing my feelings and popcorn," Daniel explained with a shrug. "I feel I can better grasp the visuals and the director's intentions that way."

"I understand," Alexander said, urging the horses to move faster. Daniel gripped his pommel tightly to maintain balance, feeling relieved when Alexander halted the horses at the forest's edge and helped him to dismount. "Out of the activities you mentioned, how about a stroll through the forest, just the two of us? Running in boots might be uncomfortable, but if you're up for it..." Alexander's smile contrasted with his scrutinizing gaze. Daniel nodded, sensing he was close to irking his Master. Returning the smile with genuine warmth, he quickly secured both horses to a tree and took Alexander's arm, guiding him along.

Quietly, they ambled along the path permeated with the rich scents of decaying leaves, damp wood, and sweetly decomposing soil. Their boots made a satisfying crunch on the dampened ground from the recent rainfall, and twigs snapped underfoot. Gradually, Daniel's focus shifted away from his companion. He extended his arm, allowing his gaze to wander through the enchanting forest that surrounded them. The simple act of walking freely, unconfined by towering walls, bars, or razor wire, felt liberating, a reprieve from the shattered life he had known. As he quickened his pace, the sound of his own breath filled his ears, accompanied by the lively chatter of birds perched high in the thinning treetops, all while relishing the crisp freshness of the air.

They began their journey along the field before Daniel veered into the dense woods, seeking solace from the noise of galloping horses and distant human chatter. He quickened his pace, almost breaking into a run. The forest grew denser, its aroma becoming more intense and fragrant, with branches stretching across the path. Daniel either ducked beneath or gently pushed aside the branches, avoiding any damage as he continued to run. The sun, already muted within the forest, seemed to have dimmed further. Though the air might have grown cooler, Daniel felt anything but cold; instead, he felt warm and serene.

Suddenly, Alexander leaped forward, blocking Daniel's path. "Enough. I've developed a side stitch, and it's time for lunch. How did you find the walk?"

Yes," Daniel admitted, his gaze softer than it had been out in the open field. "Lunch? We just ate breakfast."

"You've been darting through the forest for three hours," Alexander chuckled, wiping sweat from his brow. "I thought you'd tire out, but you just kept running, like a marathoner. You've got a leaf stuck to your forehead," Alexander noted, his voice catching slightly.

He removed the leaf, caressed Daniel's cheek, his eyes dark with intensity, and parted his lips slightly. Sensing the imminent kiss, Daniel tensed, and just before their lips met, he turned his head away, closing his eyes to avoid Alexander's gaze filled with longing. In one swift motion, Alexander pulled him closer, pressing him against a tree trunk and kissing him deeply. As he passionately explored Daniel's unresponsive mouth with his tongue, he let out a low moan, his hands tracing the contours of Daniel's tense body. Whether Alexander sensed it or Daniel's palpable tension was evident, recalling their first fierce and furious kiss, Alexander sought to drown out that animosity with fervent passion. Breaking away abruptly, he wiped his mouth with the back of his hand.

"I couldn't resist; you look too adorable when you blush. Let's go, they're expecting us, I've been called a few times already."

Daniel wiped his slightly swollen lips and distanced himself from the tree. The exhilaration of freedom he'd felt in the forest seemed to seep away with the kiss. Weary, he returned to the harsh reality, sensing Alexander's penetrating gaze on him, possibly discerning his inner turmoil. The journey back was arduous, devoid of the earlier lightness and introspective detachment. The pervasive negative thoughts and autumnal melancholy that had been overshadowed earlier now loomed large. Daniel trudged on, lost in his contemplations.

"We'll circle back this way by evening," Alexander said somberly, grasping Daniel's hand and speaking softly, with a hint of intensity, "I won't torment you or cause you pain. You've endured enough for stealing from me."

"Then why keep me here? Why not just let me go?" His voice wavered, betraying his vulnerability, and Daniel hesitated.

"It's hard to put into words... When you collapsed into my arms on the porch and looked up at me, I..." Alexander paused, infusing his sincere sentiments with a certain lightness. "It felt like fate as if I'd finally found my person. It's like being struck by lightning - suddenly, you can't imagine being with anyone else but that one person. When your deceit was uncovered, the anger overshadowed that feeling, but the longing persisted. At first, I wanted revenge, to inflict pain on you..." Daniel pulled his hand back abruptly, trying to distance himself, but Alexander tightened his grip and hurriedly continued.

"I don't want to cause you pain anymore. Don't be afraid. I just want you close, at least for a while. I don't think it'll be for long. I'm not one to cling, and seeking revenge after... after everything that happened in prison, it's complicated. Does any of this make sense to you?"

Daniel hesitated, mulling over Alexander's words before responding tentatively.

"I understand a bit better now. But I don't want these extravagant gestures with horses and motorcycles. We both know the situation we're in. Why these peculiar activities and relationship theatrics? I'm already-" Daniel cut himself off with a slight jerk. "I can tolerate being with you."

"And I'm not accustomed to relationships that are purely physical," Alexander interjected, lifting his chin defiantly, clearly stung by Daniel's remarks. "I heard you: no more fun outings. However, your time with me will be on my terms. If I decide to go somewhere, you're coming with me; if I choose another destination, you'll accompany me there as well..."

"I understand, Master," Daniel spat out, his voice dripping with seething resentment as he pulled his arm away. The intense loathing he felt was so profound that it overshadowed any self-preservation instinct that might have urged him to remain silent. Perhaps, after the kiss, his fear had diminished, lurking somewhere deep within his psyche.

"Can we leave now?"

"Damn it," Alexander exclaimed, kicking a clump of leaves in frustration, his jaw clenched. "Just move faster."

They soon reached the field, with Daniel pushing himself to maintain a brisk pace, hoping to avoid any further awkward explanations and subsequent demands. The Master hadn't just ensnared Daniel physically; he also sought emotional reciprocation and positive reactions. The expected behavior from Daniel was starkly different from what he had experienced in prison: there, he could disconnect from his body's pain and endure the torment by mentally distancing himself from the situation.

However, here, he was expected to be emotionally invested! It was baffling - what warm sentiments did Alexander anticipate from him after all that had happened? Alexander's behavior was perplexing: he had set clear terms on the first day, then engaged in this charade of a relationship, only to become agitated when it turned out that Daniel wasn't interested in playing along. Consistency would have been less tormenting than this emotional rollercoaster.

As the buildings appeared on the horizon from the hill, Daniel took a weary breath, feeling drained. The forest walk had given his muscles a pleasant fatigue, but the brief conversation had nullified any positive effects.

Alexander squared his shoulders, let out a deep sigh, and murmured.

"I just wanted to help ease your tension around me. You seem so on edge."

"I'll manage my tension more subtly," Daniel responded tersely, hoping to avoid further confrontation.

"I appreciate your decision," Alexander replied with a strained chuckle. "We'll adjust over time."

Upon spotting the prepared table, Alexander's mood visibly lifted.

"I'm famished, I could eat a horse," he remarked to the bodyguards. "Have you all eaten? Well, sit down regardless, there's no need to stand. Danny, join me at the table."

Daniel took his seat promptly: hunger was making his head spin, and the tantalizing meat pieces, infused with a hint of smokiness, beckoned to him. He passed on the burgundy borscht with its amber fat droplets on the surface – he never liked sour soups, but he happily indulged in the shish kebab, boiled potatoes, and salads that melted in his mouth. Alexander served red wine with a tangy berry undertone and exchanged jokes with the bodyguards who responded with hearty laughter and seemed to be in high spirits. The meal was simple yet filling and delicious, and soon Daniel felt a pleasant warmth from both the food and the wine start to shroud him. Leaning back in his chair, he blinked sleepily, now longing to hop into the car and doze off during the ride back to the city. However, it appeared that the evening's activities weren't quite over. Alexander was the first to rise from the table and tugged at Daniel's arm.

"Let's go, the banya* is ready." 

"Perhaps I should just shower back in Moscow. The idea of the stifling heat doesn't appeal to me anymore," Daniel mused.

"Ah, even with your Russian roots, you still don't get it. Banyas aren't just for cleanliness; they're for relaxation too. It'll help soothe your muscles, preventing any soreness after all that activity," Alexander playfully flicked his nose and grinned. Daniel didn't push back. The initial surge of strong negative emotions had faded, replaced by a resigned acceptance fueled by physical weariness. It was a strangely tranquil feeling.

With a wry smile, Daniel acknowledged that humans, at their core, were creatures of simple pleasures. After experiencing extreme lows, the comfort of good food, warmth, and a soft bed could easily overshadow other concerns. It was as if he were once again wagging his tail in front of his Master.

As they stood alone in the anteroom, Daniel detected something amiss in the air. A subtle sense of alarm pricked at him.

"What about the bodyguards?"

"They're on duty"" Alexander winked while he began to undress. "And we'll relax," he added, remaining in just a T-shirt and breeches. Slowly lifting his T-shirt, he revealed his athletic, well-defined torso. Flauntingly grabbed the waistband of his trousers, and confidently stepped toward Daniel. As Alexander moved, he stumbled, flailing his arms and letting out a loud curse as he fell. Daniel quickly bit his lip, suppressing a chuckle and concealing his smile. Instead of the earlier suppressed fear, Alexander's embarrassed demeanor now only elicited a hint of schadenfreude. The door to the banya creaked open, and a flushed, steam-covered face peered out.

"What happened? I heard a noise."

"It's nothing," Alexander said dismissively, continuing to undress without pause. Daniel felt a slight relief as he shed his sweater; the presence of the flushed bath attendant, who emerged wearing only damp cotton pants, reassured him that they wouldn't be left alone.

The banya engulfed him with its dry heat, infused with the scent of wet wood and aromatic herbs. Already feeling woozy from the hearty meal and wine, Daniel's head spun further. Whether it was the effects of the wine or the banya's warmth, he felt strangely at ease. His movements became sluggish, his senses dulled. His vision blurred slightly, teetering on the edge of a peculiar contentment - warm and comforting.

Following instructions, Daniel sat on the bench and covered his eyes. He was vigorously scrubbed with a washcloth, invigorating his muscles by moving the blood around, turning him from side to side, lifting him up, and then sitting him back down. Daniel complied, feeling a sense of calm wash over him.

Hands pressed firmly on his back, prompting him to lean back on the bench, resting his forehead on a towel placed at the head. He let out a long, satisfying yawn. A birch branch lightly tapped his heated, sore muscles, sending warm air across his skin for a few minutes before intensifying its pace. It immersed him, plunging him into a gentle lethargy. When hands glided down his back, massaging and kneading his muscles, and a brief kiss was planted on his neck, Daniel remained relaxed.

Amidst this cotton-candy intoxication and sweet fatigue, everything felt natural. The touch exuded tenderness, rekindling long-forgotten sensations and blurring the boundaries between reality and dream. Succumbing to the embracing warmth and relaxation, Daniel drifted into a peaceful, lingering slumber, releasing a soft sigh.

Alexander put Daniel's fingers on his erect cock while maintaining a connection with Daniel's lips. Daniel cautiously traced the length, instinctively gauging its size. For a fleeting moment, anxiety gripped him, anticipating discomfort. However, he swiftly relaxed, surrendering to the sensation. Mimicking Alexander's deliberate motions, he encircled the shaft with his hand.

As Alexander intensified his pace with a deep growl, Daniel matched his rhythm, their synchronized movements culminating in a shared exclamation of pleasure. A brilliant wave of orgasmic ecstasy momentarily blinded him, the rushing of blood drowning out all other sounds, leaving him in a fleeting, profound void. It took a few moments for Daniel to open his heavy eyelids, his gaze meeting Alexander's contented eyes. Whispering gently against Daniel's lips, Alexander murmured.

"See, we can get along. Just follow my lead."

Responding sluggishly to the kiss, Daniel felt a pervasive languor throughout his body, coupled with a warm, soothing affection. In that moment, there was no apprehension, no fear, only the tender brush of a kiss, the warmth of a body above him, adept hands, and the satisfied countenance of Alexander whispering softly.

Daniel returned the kiss languidly, sensing a pervasive weakness permeating his body and a gentle, raspy tenderness. In that moment, there was no introspection, fear, or tension - only the comforting caress of the kiss, the warmth of Alexander's body above him, his skillful hands, and the contented expression on Alexander's face as he whispered softly.

The journey back was a blur for Daniel. He felt so drained that Alexander had to dress him after the banya. Once in the car, Daniel drifted into a deep slumber almost instantly, his head resting against the headboard. He awoke feeling foggy and disoriented, roused by Alexander who gave him a sleepy peck on the nose in the elevator and supported him as they walked. With a sigh of relief, Daniel collapsed onto his own bed, hearing Alexander chuckle softly as he began undressing him.

*traditional Russian sauna