Heroes fic: This Christmas
Title: This Christmas
Author: icalynn
Pairing: Mohinder/Matt, Mohinder/Sylar
Word Count: 3873
Rating: PG-13
Summary: Matt and Mohinder are together, but Mohinder can't help but think of another.
A/N: An Alternate timeline from the events of Kirby Plaza…what might have been if things were slightly different. Takes place 5 years after the events at Kirby Plaza.
Beta'd by brandinsbabe, thanks for all your help luv! <3
The fire flickers before him, the heat warming his soul and reminding him of his youth. It has been years since he's ventured home, but he still remembers and prefers the heat over the bitter cold of winter. This time of year he plasters on a smile and pretends, but he seems to be pretending more and more.
Mohinder can hear his lover calling to him, but he doesn't turn to him. He flinches slightly as a hand comes in touch with his shoulder.
"Matthew," he turns his gaze away from the fire and to his face. "Did you need something?"
"I just wanted…um, nevermind," Matt stammers, taking a step back and Mohinder returns his gaze back to the fire, an air of indifference surrounding them.
Mohinder nods his head as he draws his fingers through the carpet, ignoring Matt's presence.
A heavy silence overcomes them and Mohinder looses himself once more in his thoughts as Matt continues to watch him. "You're no longer the man I fell in love with," he states softly as he leans back against the wall.
"Did you ever honestly love me?" Mohinder breathes as he returns his gaze back to him. "Or was it just convenient?"
Matt bristles, "Over the last five years, you've not once voiced your feelings-sometimes, it's like you're not even here with me, even now."
Mohinder sighs, looking away once more, unable to voice his thoughts. "I thought it would be easier," he finally admits after a long pregnant pause.
"Easier than what?" Matt questions sharply, unable to understand his cryptic comment.
Mohinder shakes his head, standing up. "It's nothing," he states, walking back toward their bedroom.
"Right," Matt sighs after him and Mohinder notices the anger and the hurt in his voice, but once more, he refuses to acknowledge it.
~
Matt stands beside the bed, watching as Mohinder sleeps. His jaw is slack and no longer clenched. He looks as if he's finally at peace. "Mohinder," he whispers as he reaches out to him, running his fingers lightly over his face.
Mohinder smiles and it warms Matt's heart. He misses his bright smiles and laughter. It use to be so different-
"Zane," Mohinder sighs and Matt stumbles back, momentarily stunned. It's not the first time Mohinder has whispered that name.
"Who is Zane?" He grates, anger lacing his voice. He's questioned him before, but Mohinder refuses to talk to him about Zane.
Matt takes a deep breath and reaches out once more to him, this time with his mind. The layers of Mohinder's mind give way easily as he enters into his dreams and he suddenly finds himself at their old apartment. He closes his eyes as he hears the heavy breathing and slapping of skin against skin, the smell of sex lingering in the air.
"Mohinder," A voice cries out, and it shocks him to the core that he recognizes it. He opens his eyes and turns to see Sylar.
"Oh, Zane," Mohinder exhales as he thrusts his hips against the monster's as they fuck against the desk.
Matt immediately pulls himself out of the dream, unable to witness the blatant betrayal, and he's left with one lingering thought. Mohinder has never loved him. How could he love the murderer that killed his father? That has attempted to kill their daughter?
Suddenly the words that Mohinder had spoken earlier make perfect sense. "I thought it would be easier," he repeats, gazing once more at his lover before turning away.
~
"What brings you here?" Bennet questions as he studies Matt staring at the captive. "You've never shown interest in him before."
"I have a renewed interest," Matt answers as he turns his gaze away from viewing partition. "I want to speak to him."
"I'd warn against that," Bennet clips and Parkman stiffens.
"Warning noted," Matt grumbles, his fists clenching at his side. "Just a few words."
"Very well," Bennet shrugs. "You are not to speak to Mohinder about this. The good doctor is not to know about him or your visit. It would not be beneficial to our cause."
Matt nods, not wanting to know what would happen if Mohinder found out the truth. "Understood."
~
He stares up at the ceiling and offers his arm as he hears the door slide open. When the injection doesn't come he shifts on the bed and turns his head to the door. "Parkman," he hisses, unable to hide the loathing he still feels at the sight of the cop before him.
"Sylar," Matt clips as he steps into the room.
"Well isn't this special," Sylar quips as he sits up, leaning back against the wall as he stares at his guest. "What do you want, Parkman?"
"Tell me about Zane."
Sylar gasps, his heart skipping a beat at the mere mention of that name. "It's a name," he smirks as he notices the discomfort seeping from the fat cop. "What's it to you?"
"Mohinder-" he begins as he glances away and Sylar feels an unfamiliar sensation grow in his chest, it's warm and encompassing, something he's been missing for far too long-hope. Sylar hasn't heard Mohinder's name in years and he aches to hear about him, to see him. "Seems to have a connection to this Zane."
Sylar's eyes widen, a real smile forming at his lips. "Even after-" he mumbles more to himself, glancing down at his hands. "Why now?" Sylar finds himself questioning, needing more information.
Matt shifts his feet and glances away from him. "Zane," he repeats, returning his gaze to Sylar. "Tell me about him, his relation to Mohinder."
Sylar can't help but grin, "Is this why he's not allowed to see me?"
"He doesn't even know you're alive," Matt hisses and Sylar gasps, his eyes widening at the news. "He thinks you've been dead for the past five years."
"And you're losing him to me," he snorts, unable to wipe the smile off his face. "How does that make you feel, Parkman?" Sylar chuckles low in his throat, standing up. "You can't compete with a dead guy, can you?"
"Fuck you," Matt growls.
"Believe me," he snarls. "You're not the man I'd fuck."
"Did you?" He questions sharply. "As Zane?"
Sylar shakes his head sadly, licking his lips. "We never got to that point."
"But, he-" Matt begins, his voice trailing off, catching Sylar's curiosity.
"But, he, what?" He questions, grinning as it occurs to him what powers Parkman does have. "He's thinking of me, or perhaps he's dreaming of me?" As Parkman tenses, Sylar chuckles once more, stalking closer to him. "Did you see us fucking?" He taunts. "Is that why you're here?"
"You never answered my question," Matt insists.
"Zane?" Sylar smiles. "He was a musician that had the power of liquification. On the day I took the power he was wasting. Doctor Suresh was supposed to see him. I planned to kill him as I did his father- but I couldn't." He explains with a shrug of his shoulders. "When I answered the door, he assumed I was Zane and I continued to let him think that I was. He was nothing that I had imagined from Chandra's talks-he was breathtaking, as you well know."
"Then he figured out you were Sylar and what?" He prompts as Sylar smiles at the rush of memories that wash over him.
"He drugged me, tested me," Sylar says, rubbing his hand over his neck absentmindedly. "He attempted to shoot me, but he could never kill me and you know why."
"Why is that?" Matt hisses.
"He wants me, he needs me," Sylar grins. "And if it's affecting your so called relationship, then perhaps it can be assumed that he loves me."
Sylar suddenly glances at the clock high up on the wall, ignoring Parkman's words as he begins to feel his powers surge through his body. The injection is late, most likely because of his visitor. He turns his full attention to Parkman and his smile widens as he notices that the door is still open behind him.
They've underestimated him and the drugs that have normally kept him at bay are no longer blocking his powers. The ticking grows louder, but he doesn't want Parkman's powers- he'd rather see him living in agony with the thought that Mohinder had chosen him.
~
"Mohinder," Molly calls out and he turns to see his adoptive daughter, bringing the cold air and a few snowflakes in with her as she opens the front door. "Merry Christmas!" She grins as she quickly crosses over to him and they hug.
"Merry Christmas," Mohinder flashes her a tight smile as they pull apart.
"Where's Matt?" She questions as she begins to pull off her gloves and shrugging off her jacket, shaking off the rest of the snow that lingers on her.
Mohinder pauses, not sure of his whereabouts and he honestly doesn't care. "Work."
"That's odd." She muses. "I thought that he was going to be home, he said he had Christmas Eve off."
Mohinder shrugs. "I'm sure he'll be home soon." He offers, forcing another smile to his face. "How's Micah?" He teases lightly, hoping she'll change the subject.
She pauses, her smile fading. "He's good. School is good." Molly states as she sits down at the kitchen table. "Are you and Matt breaking up or something?"
"What?" Mohinder gasps flustered over such a direct question. "No-"
"Well, you should." She crosses her arms. "I've never seen two more miserable people in my life-and I spend most of my time away at school! I haven't seen you smile a real smile in like forever and you haven't laughed-"
"You're being ridiculous," he states more harshly then he intended.
"Then where is Matt?" She stresses and he sighs, unable to answer her. "Thought so."
"Molly-"
"Did you only get together because of me?" She asks desperately, tears pooling in her eyes.
Mohinder sighs once more. "Partially," he whispers, trying to be as truthful as he can.
She sniffs, blinking back her tears. "Do you love him?" Molly questions and Mohinder exhales sharply, looking away.
"Molly," he groans. "This is really none of your concern-"
"Is there someone else?" She gasps suddenly, her eyes widening as Mohinder remains silent, neither confirming or denying her question. "Oh, my god. There is- who?"
"Molly." Mohinder snaps. "I'll not have this discussion with-"
"Then with who?" She counters. "I know you've not spoken to Matt- he's been worried. We both are. You're not-" her voice trails off as the phone cuts her off. "Oh, who can that be?"
Mohinder sighs, running his hand through his hair before he reaches for the phone, "Hello?"
"Get out of there," a voice demands and it takes Mohinder a second to realize it's Matt on the other end of the line.
"Why would we-" Mohinder frowns, trying to understand his demands.
"We?" He gasps. "Is Molly there?"
Mohinder pauses, glancing over at Molly. "Yes."
"Get out," Matt repeats, voice filled with concern and worry. "He's coming for you."
"Who-" Mohinder begins to question as Molly steps closer to him, reaching out to him.
"What is it?" She gasps as she leans in to hear Matt as well.
"Sylar."
Mohinder freezes, his eyes narrowing every so slightly. "He's dead," he finds himself replying as Matt continues to talk, but all he can seem to focus on is Molly's stricken face.
"No, he's not dead." Molly whispers, shaking her head and Mohinder can't help but stare at her in stony disbelief.
"What?" Mohinder gasps, unable to even consider the possibility, "No."
"He's always been there," she adds softly as she takes the phone from Mohinder's hand. "Matt?"
"You need to get out of there," Matt urges and Molly tenses, instantly feeling Sylar's presence closer then she should.
~
Sylar trudges in the snow, hating the cold that seeped through his stolen apparel. He didn't have much to choose from as he fled the Company, but he took what he could. Sylar concentrates, his hearing still not at its full strength and he wanders the city until he finds himself at a posh apartment complex. He easily lets himself in and he follows the heartbeat he knows so well. As Sylar reaches his destination he can hear raised voices and he realizes that Mohinder isn't alone.
"He's alive?" The accented voice cries out, distressed, and Sylar can't help but soak in the voice he's been dying to hear over the last five years. "How can that-why would they lie to me?"
"Mohinder," a feminine voice begins and Sylar is unable to place it. "I'm sorry I didn't say anything-I didn't-" her voice stops and she exhales sharply. "He's here, we have to go."
"No." Mohinder snaps and Sylar can't help but grin, his answer is what he was hoping for.
He doesn't wait for them to continue, he just let's himself in.
~
Time seems to stop as Mohinder turns to the door, his heart skipping a beat as he sees Sylar in front of him. "It is you," he whispers in awe.
"Did you miss me?" Sylar questions as his gaze locks on him.
Mohinder can't look away, his heart pounding in his chest. "Is this real? How is this possible?"
Sylar smiles. "Ever the scientist," he remarks as he steps forward and Mohinder takes a step back. "Did you miss me, Doctor?"
"Sylar," Mohinder exhales, still unable to believe his eyes. "They told me that you were dead-" his voice trails off as he lifts his hand to touch the man before him.
Sylar closes the gap between them, allowing Mohinder to brush his fingertips against his arm. "I'm here."
Mohinder looks up at him, their gazes locking. "What are you doing here?"
"Zane."
Mohinder bristles at the name and he pushes away from him, "I-no."
"Mohinder," Molly urges, grabbing onto his sleeve, trying to get him to focus on anything but Sylar.
He gazes at her, unable to truly focus on her when all he can think of his Sylar standing beside him, alive. Mohinder exhales, trying to clear his mind.
"Ah," Sylar begins as he studies Molly. "The tracker," he muses. "My have you grown up."
Molly puffs up her chest, summoning up her courage as she regards him carefully and she looks to Mohinder. She balls up her hands into fists and glares at Sylar, hating to see Mohinder look so lost. "You should leave. The police will be here soon."
Sylar nods, his hearing picking up the sirens blocks away. He turns his gaze to Mohinder, smiling as he leans in and brushes his lips against his ear. "I'll be back," he vows, leaving just as quickly as he came.
Mohinder begins to protest as he disappears from their sight. "Sylar!" he calls out desperately as he glances around the room.
"He's gone," Molly adds softly, unable to feel his presence anymore.
Mohinder's body trembles as he takes a deep breath, his gaze snapping to Molly's. "He was never here."
"What?" She gasps, eyes widening in shock. "No. They'll know. Matt knows."
Mohinder shakes his head. "Molly."
"My god, you can't honestly think I'd…" her voice trails off as she studies Mohinder's closely, "You care for him."
Mohinder looks away from her, not able to face the truth that has been in his dreams, his deepest desires. He rubs the back of his neck and sighs, "It's not of your concern."
"It's him, isn't it?" Molly gasps, putting all the pieces together. "Do…do you love him?"
He exhales, not really knowing the answer to her question. It should be an easy yes or no answer, but it's more complicated then that.
"Oh." Her eyes widen, worrying her lip, knowing there is something more. "Why him?"
Mohinder pauses, his thoughts running rampant at the simple question. "I wish I knew."
"He killed your father," Molly whispers harshly. "He killed my parents," she exhales sharply, her voice wavering. "He tried to kill me, Matt-"
"I know," Mohinder nods, his body trembling and he forces himself to sit down. He closes his eyes and absentmindedly rubs his lips, sighing. "Molly, please."
"But-" she stammers, studying him closely and then sits down beside him, leaning her head against his shoulders. "Okay."
~
Matt flies into the room only to find them sitting quietly by the fire. "What are you still doing here? He's on his way, he's near!"
Mohinder stands, looking to him. "Where has he been all this time?"
"What?" Matt questions harshly as he glances around the room, looking for any sign of Sylar.
"Why did you lie to me?" Mohinder glares at him. "For the last five years I believed that he was dead."
"They thought it best," he shrugs.
"For who?"
Matt studies him a moment, his eyes narrowing slightly. "He was already here, wasn't he?"
"What if he was?" Mohinder questions, challenging him and they glare at each other, willing the other to speak.
"Does it really matter?" Molly cuts in, the tension palatable in the air. "You two are fighting again…what a fucking Merry Christmas." Mohinder and Matt turn to her with a shocked expression marring both their faces at her outburst and her choice in language, and she can't help but roll her eyes. "Please. I'm going to bed."
"Molly," Mohinder calls out to her and she smiles sadly at him.
"I'm not the one you need to speak with." She whispers, as she turns toward her bedroom. "Night."
"What's that supposed to mean?" Matt questions and Mohinder rolls his eyes.
"I'm going out," Mohinder replies as he gathers his coat and scarf.
"Don't do this Mohinder, he's just using you."
"Then maybe you shouldn't have taken my choice away," he hisses as he puts on his coat and wraps his scarf around his neck. "I never had the closure-"
"Fucking him would give you closure?" Matt grunts. "I thought I knew you."
Mohinder glares at him, instantly knowing that he did the one thing he has asked him not to, go into his mind. "You're not welcomed here anymore. Pack your things and leave." He turns away, storming out of the apartment before Matt can respond.
He incessantly pushes the down button for the elevator, urging it to move faster, his impatience wearing thin as every second ticks by. Mohinder eyes the stairwell at the end of the hallway, itching to take them and flee. He waits a moment longer, before he snaps and takes the stairs. He makes it down the first flight of stairs before he stops, his breath coming in angry gasps. He hits the wall with his hands, his body overwhelmed with conflicting emotions.
There's a creak on the stairs and Mohinder steals himself, tensing ever so slightly as he feels Sylar's presence once more. He should have guessed that he didn't truly leave. Mohinder turns to see Sylar's tall frame looming on the stairs above him.
"You do realize it's because he peaked in your dreams that he came to confront me," Sylar states as he takes another step down. "Thus allowing me to escape."
"You had no right to listen," Mohinder glares, turning on his heels and continuing his descent down the stairs.
Sylar falls into step behind him. "Oh?"
Mohinder stops suddenly on the last landing and turns to him. "Just because I don't have powers, doesn't mean that either of you can use them on-"
"Mohinder," Sylar's voice is soft, almost inviting and he reaches out for Mohinder.
"No," Mohinder snaps, taking a step back. "You can't just appear and try to-"
Sylar lunges forward, cutting Mohinder off as he forces him back against the wall. He braces his hands to the sides of Mohinder's face, effectively pinning him. "Try to what?" Sylar leans in, his lips grazing over Mohinder's ear.
Mohinder trembles, looking down at his feet, unable to look into his eyes. His heart skips a beat and he suddenly realizes that he feels intoxicated by Sylar's presence when he should be afraid for his life. "I thought it would be easier," he finds himself replying as he glances up at Sylar.
"Nothing's easy," Sylar snorts as he strokes Mohinder's neck, his fingers tangling into his hair. "Why should love be any different?"
Mohinder exhales sharply, warmth coiling in his body at the soft fleeting touch. He wants this, he want's Sylar. "Like you could love?"
"You'd be surprised," he whispers, smiling against Mohinder's skin as he presses a light kiss to his brow.
Mohinder arches his neck up, wanting to feel Sylar's lips against his own. "Surprise me." He reaches out, wrapping his arms around Sylar's neck, urging him closer.
Sylar ghosts his lips over Mohinder's, teasing him as he shifts even closer to him. "I've waited so long to do this."
Mohinder licks his lips in anticipation, groaning as his tongue swipes past Sylar's lips. "Sylar."
Sylar smirks, leaning in and kissing him. They both tense as their lips come into contact and before it can advance to something more, Sylar pushes away. "Fuck."
"Sylar?" Mohinder trembles at the loss and follows his gaze.
"They're here," Sylar hisses, turning his attention back to Mohinder. "I won't go back," he states firmly as he searches Mohinder's face. "But, I-"
"I won't be far," Mohinder offers, reaching out to him. "Go."
Sylar grins, pulling Mohinder into his embrace and kissing him. This time the kiss is deep and full of wanting. There's a loud clang above them and they part, gasping for air.
"Go," Mohinder urges once more. Sylar nods and a second later Mohinder is standing alone on the landing. He tries to still his racing heart, the last few hours have been a blur-he never expected this.
"Where is he?" Matt demands and Mohinder spins, glaring at him and the Company agents behind him.
Mohinder's lips thin, "I don't know."
"Convenient," Matt snorts and he motions for the other agents to go past them. "I'm sorry it had to come to this," he states once they are alone.
Mohinder's eyes widen as he recognizes the slight tilt to Matt's head. "No!"
Matt smiles sadly. "It's for the greater good, Mohinder. You were never to know."
"No…" Mohinder exhales sharply, but it's too late. His thoughts become hazy and soon there's nothing.
~
Mohinder blinks, staring at the crackling fire before him. He yawns, not recalling when he fell asleep. He stretches, getting up and making his way back to his bedroom. Mohinder pauses as he notices Matt is already in bed and he suddenly feels ill.
Mohinder races to the bathroom, throwing up what little he had in his stomach. His body trembles as he stands and he barely manages to cross over to the sink to wash his face and mouth. Mohinder leans heavily against the sink and he can't help but stare at his reflection in the mirror.
He feels as if something has been torn from him, he feels empty. He touches his lips craving for something he'll never have. "Sylar," he whispers, needing him. The sensation is stronger then it has been in the last five years. "I'm sorry."
Author: icalynn
Pairing: Mohinder/Matt, Mohinder/Sylar
Word Count: 3873
Rating: PG-13
Summary: Matt and Mohinder are together, but Mohinder can't help but think of another.
A/N: An Alternate timeline from the events of Kirby Plaza…what might have been if things were slightly different. Takes place 5 years after the events at Kirby Plaza.
Beta'd by brandinsbabe, thanks for all your help luv! <3
The fire flickers before him, the heat warming his soul and reminding him of his youth. It has been years since he's ventured home, but he still remembers and prefers the heat over the bitter cold of winter. This time of year he plasters on a smile and pretends, but he seems to be pretending more and more.
Mohinder can hear his lover calling to him, but he doesn't turn to him. He flinches slightly as a hand comes in touch with his shoulder.
"Matthew," he turns his gaze away from the fire and to his face. "Did you need something?"
"I just wanted…um, nevermind," Matt stammers, taking a step back and Mohinder returns his gaze back to the fire, an air of indifference surrounding them.
Mohinder nods his head as he draws his fingers through the carpet, ignoring Matt's presence.
A heavy silence overcomes them and Mohinder looses himself once more in his thoughts as Matt continues to watch him. "You're no longer the man I fell in love with," he states softly as he leans back against the wall.
"Did you ever honestly love me?" Mohinder breathes as he returns his gaze back to him. "Or was it just convenient?"
Matt bristles, "Over the last five years, you've not once voiced your feelings-sometimes, it's like you're not even here with me, even now."
Mohinder sighs, looking away once more, unable to voice his thoughts. "I thought it would be easier," he finally admits after a long pregnant pause.
"Easier than what?" Matt questions sharply, unable to understand his cryptic comment.
Mohinder shakes his head, standing up. "It's nothing," he states, walking back toward their bedroom.
"Right," Matt sighs after him and Mohinder notices the anger and the hurt in his voice, but once more, he refuses to acknowledge it.
~
Matt stands beside the bed, watching as Mohinder sleeps. His jaw is slack and no longer clenched. He looks as if he's finally at peace. "Mohinder," he whispers as he reaches out to him, running his fingers lightly over his face.
Mohinder smiles and it warms Matt's heart. He misses his bright smiles and laughter. It use to be so different-
"Zane," Mohinder sighs and Matt stumbles back, momentarily stunned. It's not the first time Mohinder has whispered that name.
"Who is Zane?" He grates, anger lacing his voice. He's questioned him before, but Mohinder refuses to talk to him about Zane.
Matt takes a deep breath and reaches out once more to him, this time with his mind. The layers of Mohinder's mind give way easily as he enters into his dreams and he suddenly finds himself at their old apartment. He closes his eyes as he hears the heavy breathing and slapping of skin against skin, the smell of sex lingering in the air.
"Mohinder," A voice cries out, and it shocks him to the core that he recognizes it. He opens his eyes and turns to see Sylar.
"Oh, Zane," Mohinder exhales as he thrusts his hips against the monster's as they fuck against the desk.
Matt immediately pulls himself out of the dream, unable to witness the blatant betrayal, and he's left with one lingering thought. Mohinder has never loved him. How could he love the murderer that killed his father? That has attempted to kill their daughter?
Suddenly the words that Mohinder had spoken earlier make perfect sense. "I thought it would be easier," he repeats, gazing once more at his lover before turning away.
~
"What brings you here?" Bennet questions as he studies Matt staring at the captive. "You've never shown interest in him before."
"I have a renewed interest," Matt answers as he turns his gaze away from viewing partition. "I want to speak to him."
"I'd warn against that," Bennet clips and Parkman stiffens.
"Warning noted," Matt grumbles, his fists clenching at his side. "Just a few words."
"Very well," Bennet shrugs. "You are not to speak to Mohinder about this. The good doctor is not to know about him or your visit. It would not be beneficial to our cause."
Matt nods, not wanting to know what would happen if Mohinder found out the truth. "Understood."
~
He stares up at the ceiling and offers his arm as he hears the door slide open. When the injection doesn't come he shifts on the bed and turns his head to the door. "Parkman," he hisses, unable to hide the loathing he still feels at the sight of the cop before him.
"Sylar," Matt clips as he steps into the room.
"Well isn't this special," Sylar quips as he sits up, leaning back against the wall as he stares at his guest. "What do you want, Parkman?"
"Tell me about Zane."
Sylar gasps, his heart skipping a beat at the mere mention of that name. "It's a name," he smirks as he notices the discomfort seeping from the fat cop. "What's it to you?"
"Mohinder-" he begins as he glances away and Sylar feels an unfamiliar sensation grow in his chest, it's warm and encompassing, something he's been missing for far too long-hope. Sylar hasn't heard Mohinder's name in years and he aches to hear about him, to see him. "Seems to have a connection to this Zane."
Sylar's eyes widen, a real smile forming at his lips. "Even after-" he mumbles more to himself, glancing down at his hands. "Why now?" Sylar finds himself questioning, needing more information.
Matt shifts his feet and glances away from him. "Zane," he repeats, returning his gaze to Sylar. "Tell me about him, his relation to Mohinder."
Sylar can't help but grin, "Is this why he's not allowed to see me?"
"He doesn't even know you're alive," Matt hisses and Sylar gasps, his eyes widening at the news. "He thinks you've been dead for the past five years."
"And you're losing him to me," he snorts, unable to wipe the smile off his face. "How does that make you feel, Parkman?" Sylar chuckles low in his throat, standing up. "You can't compete with a dead guy, can you?"
"Fuck you," Matt growls.
"Believe me," he snarls. "You're not the man I'd fuck."
"Did you?" He questions sharply. "As Zane?"
Sylar shakes his head sadly, licking his lips. "We never got to that point."
"But, he-" Matt begins, his voice trailing off, catching Sylar's curiosity.
"But, he, what?" He questions, grinning as it occurs to him what powers Parkman does have. "He's thinking of me, or perhaps he's dreaming of me?" As Parkman tenses, Sylar chuckles once more, stalking closer to him. "Did you see us fucking?" He taunts. "Is that why you're here?"
"You never answered my question," Matt insists.
"Zane?" Sylar smiles. "He was a musician that had the power of liquification. On the day I took the power he was wasting. Doctor Suresh was supposed to see him. I planned to kill him as I did his father- but I couldn't." He explains with a shrug of his shoulders. "When I answered the door, he assumed I was Zane and I continued to let him think that I was. He was nothing that I had imagined from Chandra's talks-he was breathtaking, as you well know."
"Then he figured out you were Sylar and what?" He prompts as Sylar smiles at the rush of memories that wash over him.
"He drugged me, tested me," Sylar says, rubbing his hand over his neck absentmindedly. "He attempted to shoot me, but he could never kill me and you know why."
"Why is that?" Matt hisses.
"He wants me, he needs me," Sylar grins. "And if it's affecting your so called relationship, then perhaps it can be assumed that he loves me."
Sylar suddenly glances at the clock high up on the wall, ignoring Parkman's words as he begins to feel his powers surge through his body. The injection is late, most likely because of his visitor. He turns his full attention to Parkman and his smile widens as he notices that the door is still open behind him.
They've underestimated him and the drugs that have normally kept him at bay are no longer blocking his powers. The ticking grows louder, but he doesn't want Parkman's powers- he'd rather see him living in agony with the thought that Mohinder had chosen him.
~
"Mohinder," Molly calls out and he turns to see his adoptive daughter, bringing the cold air and a few snowflakes in with her as she opens the front door. "Merry Christmas!" She grins as she quickly crosses over to him and they hug.
"Merry Christmas," Mohinder flashes her a tight smile as they pull apart.
"Where's Matt?" She questions as she begins to pull off her gloves and shrugging off her jacket, shaking off the rest of the snow that lingers on her.
Mohinder pauses, not sure of his whereabouts and he honestly doesn't care. "Work."
"That's odd." She muses. "I thought that he was going to be home, he said he had Christmas Eve off."
Mohinder shrugs. "I'm sure he'll be home soon." He offers, forcing another smile to his face. "How's Micah?" He teases lightly, hoping she'll change the subject.
She pauses, her smile fading. "He's good. School is good." Molly states as she sits down at the kitchen table. "Are you and Matt breaking up or something?"
"What?" Mohinder gasps flustered over such a direct question. "No-"
"Well, you should." She crosses her arms. "I've never seen two more miserable people in my life-and I spend most of my time away at school! I haven't seen you smile a real smile in like forever and you haven't laughed-"
"You're being ridiculous," he states more harshly then he intended.
"Then where is Matt?" She stresses and he sighs, unable to answer her. "Thought so."
"Molly-"
"Did you only get together because of me?" She asks desperately, tears pooling in her eyes.
Mohinder sighs once more. "Partially," he whispers, trying to be as truthful as he can.
She sniffs, blinking back her tears. "Do you love him?" Molly questions and Mohinder exhales sharply, looking away.
"Molly," he groans. "This is really none of your concern-"
"Is there someone else?" She gasps suddenly, her eyes widening as Mohinder remains silent, neither confirming or denying her question. "Oh, my god. There is- who?"
"Molly." Mohinder snaps. "I'll not have this discussion with-"
"Then with who?" She counters. "I know you've not spoken to Matt- he's been worried. We both are. You're not-" her voice trails off as the phone cuts her off. "Oh, who can that be?"
Mohinder sighs, running his hand through his hair before he reaches for the phone, "Hello?"
"Get out of there," a voice demands and it takes Mohinder a second to realize it's Matt on the other end of the line.
"Why would we-" Mohinder frowns, trying to understand his demands.
"We?" He gasps. "Is Molly there?"
Mohinder pauses, glancing over at Molly. "Yes."
"Get out," Matt repeats, voice filled with concern and worry. "He's coming for you."
"Who-" Mohinder begins to question as Molly steps closer to him, reaching out to him.
"What is it?" She gasps as she leans in to hear Matt as well.
"Sylar."
Mohinder freezes, his eyes narrowing every so slightly. "He's dead," he finds himself replying as Matt continues to talk, but all he can seem to focus on is Molly's stricken face.
"No, he's not dead." Molly whispers, shaking her head and Mohinder can't help but stare at her in stony disbelief.
"What?" Mohinder gasps, unable to even consider the possibility, "No."
"He's always been there," she adds softly as she takes the phone from Mohinder's hand. "Matt?"
"You need to get out of there," Matt urges and Molly tenses, instantly feeling Sylar's presence closer then she should.
~
Sylar trudges in the snow, hating the cold that seeped through his stolen apparel. He didn't have much to choose from as he fled the Company, but he took what he could. Sylar concentrates, his hearing still not at its full strength and he wanders the city until he finds himself at a posh apartment complex. He easily lets himself in and he follows the heartbeat he knows so well. As Sylar reaches his destination he can hear raised voices and he realizes that Mohinder isn't alone.
"He's alive?" The accented voice cries out, distressed, and Sylar can't help but soak in the voice he's been dying to hear over the last five years. "How can that-why would they lie to me?"
"Mohinder," a feminine voice begins and Sylar is unable to place it. "I'm sorry I didn't say anything-I didn't-" her voice stops and she exhales sharply. "He's here, we have to go."
"No." Mohinder snaps and Sylar can't help but grin, his answer is what he was hoping for.
He doesn't wait for them to continue, he just let's himself in.
~
Time seems to stop as Mohinder turns to the door, his heart skipping a beat as he sees Sylar in front of him. "It is you," he whispers in awe.
"Did you miss me?" Sylar questions as his gaze locks on him.
Mohinder can't look away, his heart pounding in his chest. "Is this real? How is this possible?"
Sylar smiles. "Ever the scientist," he remarks as he steps forward and Mohinder takes a step back. "Did you miss me, Doctor?"
"Sylar," Mohinder exhales, still unable to believe his eyes. "They told me that you were dead-" his voice trails off as he lifts his hand to touch the man before him.
Sylar closes the gap between them, allowing Mohinder to brush his fingertips against his arm. "I'm here."
Mohinder looks up at him, their gazes locking. "What are you doing here?"
"Zane."
Mohinder bristles at the name and he pushes away from him, "I-no."
"Mohinder," Molly urges, grabbing onto his sleeve, trying to get him to focus on anything but Sylar.
He gazes at her, unable to truly focus on her when all he can think of his Sylar standing beside him, alive. Mohinder exhales, trying to clear his mind.
"Ah," Sylar begins as he studies Molly. "The tracker," he muses. "My have you grown up."
Molly puffs up her chest, summoning up her courage as she regards him carefully and she looks to Mohinder. She balls up her hands into fists and glares at Sylar, hating to see Mohinder look so lost. "You should leave. The police will be here soon."
Sylar nods, his hearing picking up the sirens blocks away. He turns his gaze to Mohinder, smiling as he leans in and brushes his lips against his ear. "I'll be back," he vows, leaving just as quickly as he came.
Mohinder begins to protest as he disappears from their sight. "Sylar!" he calls out desperately as he glances around the room.
"He's gone," Molly adds softly, unable to feel his presence anymore.
Mohinder's body trembles as he takes a deep breath, his gaze snapping to Molly's. "He was never here."
"What?" She gasps, eyes widening in shock. "No. They'll know. Matt knows."
Mohinder shakes his head. "Molly."
"My god, you can't honestly think I'd…" her voice trails off as she studies Mohinder's closely, "You care for him."
Mohinder looks away from her, not able to face the truth that has been in his dreams, his deepest desires. He rubs the back of his neck and sighs, "It's not of your concern."
"It's him, isn't it?" Molly gasps, putting all the pieces together. "Do…do you love him?"
He exhales, not really knowing the answer to her question. It should be an easy yes or no answer, but it's more complicated then that.
"Oh." Her eyes widen, worrying her lip, knowing there is something more. "Why him?"
Mohinder pauses, his thoughts running rampant at the simple question. "I wish I knew."
"He killed your father," Molly whispers harshly. "He killed my parents," she exhales sharply, her voice wavering. "He tried to kill me, Matt-"
"I know," Mohinder nods, his body trembling and he forces himself to sit down. He closes his eyes and absentmindedly rubs his lips, sighing. "Molly, please."
"But-" she stammers, studying him closely and then sits down beside him, leaning her head against his shoulders. "Okay."
~
Matt flies into the room only to find them sitting quietly by the fire. "What are you still doing here? He's on his way, he's near!"
Mohinder stands, looking to him. "Where has he been all this time?"
"What?" Matt questions harshly as he glances around the room, looking for any sign of Sylar.
"Why did you lie to me?" Mohinder glares at him. "For the last five years I believed that he was dead."
"They thought it best," he shrugs.
"For who?"
Matt studies him a moment, his eyes narrowing slightly. "He was already here, wasn't he?"
"What if he was?" Mohinder questions, challenging him and they glare at each other, willing the other to speak.
"Does it really matter?" Molly cuts in, the tension palatable in the air. "You two are fighting again…what a fucking Merry Christmas." Mohinder and Matt turn to her with a shocked expression marring both their faces at her outburst and her choice in language, and she can't help but roll her eyes. "Please. I'm going to bed."
"Molly," Mohinder calls out to her and she smiles sadly at him.
"I'm not the one you need to speak with." She whispers, as she turns toward her bedroom. "Night."
"What's that supposed to mean?" Matt questions and Mohinder rolls his eyes.
"I'm going out," Mohinder replies as he gathers his coat and scarf.
"Don't do this Mohinder, he's just using you."
"Then maybe you shouldn't have taken my choice away," he hisses as he puts on his coat and wraps his scarf around his neck. "I never had the closure-"
"Fucking him would give you closure?" Matt grunts. "I thought I knew you."
Mohinder glares at him, instantly knowing that he did the one thing he has asked him not to, go into his mind. "You're not welcomed here anymore. Pack your things and leave." He turns away, storming out of the apartment before Matt can respond.
He incessantly pushes the down button for the elevator, urging it to move faster, his impatience wearing thin as every second ticks by. Mohinder eyes the stairwell at the end of the hallway, itching to take them and flee. He waits a moment longer, before he snaps and takes the stairs. He makes it down the first flight of stairs before he stops, his breath coming in angry gasps. He hits the wall with his hands, his body overwhelmed with conflicting emotions.
There's a creak on the stairs and Mohinder steals himself, tensing ever so slightly as he feels Sylar's presence once more. He should have guessed that he didn't truly leave. Mohinder turns to see Sylar's tall frame looming on the stairs above him.
"You do realize it's because he peaked in your dreams that he came to confront me," Sylar states as he takes another step down. "Thus allowing me to escape."
"You had no right to listen," Mohinder glares, turning on his heels and continuing his descent down the stairs.
Sylar falls into step behind him. "Oh?"
Mohinder stops suddenly on the last landing and turns to him. "Just because I don't have powers, doesn't mean that either of you can use them on-"
"Mohinder," Sylar's voice is soft, almost inviting and he reaches out for Mohinder.
"No," Mohinder snaps, taking a step back. "You can't just appear and try to-"
Sylar lunges forward, cutting Mohinder off as he forces him back against the wall. He braces his hands to the sides of Mohinder's face, effectively pinning him. "Try to what?" Sylar leans in, his lips grazing over Mohinder's ear.
Mohinder trembles, looking down at his feet, unable to look into his eyes. His heart skips a beat and he suddenly realizes that he feels intoxicated by Sylar's presence when he should be afraid for his life. "I thought it would be easier," he finds himself replying as he glances up at Sylar.
"Nothing's easy," Sylar snorts as he strokes Mohinder's neck, his fingers tangling into his hair. "Why should love be any different?"
Mohinder exhales sharply, warmth coiling in his body at the soft fleeting touch. He wants this, he want's Sylar. "Like you could love?"
"You'd be surprised," he whispers, smiling against Mohinder's skin as he presses a light kiss to his brow.
Mohinder arches his neck up, wanting to feel Sylar's lips against his own. "Surprise me." He reaches out, wrapping his arms around Sylar's neck, urging him closer.
Sylar ghosts his lips over Mohinder's, teasing him as he shifts even closer to him. "I've waited so long to do this."
Mohinder licks his lips in anticipation, groaning as his tongue swipes past Sylar's lips. "Sylar."
Sylar smirks, leaning in and kissing him. They both tense as their lips come into contact and before it can advance to something more, Sylar pushes away. "Fuck."
"Sylar?" Mohinder trembles at the loss and follows his gaze.
"They're here," Sylar hisses, turning his attention back to Mohinder. "I won't go back," he states firmly as he searches Mohinder's face. "But, I-"
"I won't be far," Mohinder offers, reaching out to him. "Go."
Sylar grins, pulling Mohinder into his embrace and kissing him. This time the kiss is deep and full of wanting. There's a loud clang above them and they part, gasping for air.
"Go," Mohinder urges once more. Sylar nods and a second later Mohinder is standing alone on the landing. He tries to still his racing heart, the last few hours have been a blur-he never expected this.
"Where is he?" Matt demands and Mohinder spins, glaring at him and the Company agents behind him.
Mohinder's lips thin, "I don't know."
"Convenient," Matt snorts and he motions for the other agents to go past them. "I'm sorry it had to come to this," he states once they are alone.
Mohinder's eyes widen as he recognizes the slight tilt to Matt's head. "No!"
Matt smiles sadly. "It's for the greater good, Mohinder. You were never to know."
"No…" Mohinder exhales sharply, but it's too late. His thoughts become hazy and soon there's nothing.
~
Mohinder blinks, staring at the crackling fire before him. He yawns, not recalling when he fell asleep. He stretches, getting up and making his way back to his bedroom. Mohinder pauses as he notices Matt is already in bed and he suddenly feels ill.
Mohinder races to the bathroom, throwing up what little he had in his stomach. His body trembles as he stands and he barely manages to cross over to the sink to wash his face and mouth. Mohinder leans heavily against the sink and he can't help but stare at his reflection in the mirror.
He feels as if something has been torn from him, he feels empty. He touches his lips craving for something he'll never have. "Sylar," he whispers, needing him. The sensation is stronger then it has been in the last five years. "I'm sorry."