Stop Loving Me
Title: Stop Loving Me
Author: willows_whiten
Claim: Kevin/Scotty from Brothers & Sisters
Table: Wedding Vows
Word Count: 3,506
Prompt: For Better, For Worse
Rating: PG-13
Summary: A fight threatens to break up Kevin and Scotty.
Warnings: Canonical slash.
Notes: I own nothing. I took something I did for 1sentence and tried to connect the sentences. I hadn't intended for them to be married when I started this, but because of the sentences I had previously written, they had to be. So I don't know if this change in plan is evident or not.
"What the hell were you thinking?" Kevin yells.
Scotty freezes, some of the leftovers from dinner on a plate in his hands.
"Why did you have to come back just then? Don't you trust me?"
"Of course I do," Scotty says meekly. "It's just. . ."
"Whatever. I don't want to hear it."
"Kevin, have you stopped loving me?"
It is out of shock, not due to the answer that Kevin can't speak. But it is all of the answer that Scotty needs.
"Fine, if that's the way you feel about me, I'm sorry I care so much." Scotty grabs his coat and storms out of the loft.
Kevin closes his eyes, thinking it isn't supposed to go down like this. He hadn't meant it like that, and once again Scotty has walked out of his life. Kevin has seen his share of men leave, and each one has hurt. But some how, some how this one is even worse. This is different. He thought they had gotten past his stupidity. Wasn't that why they had gotten back together the last time? But this time, he doesn't have Jason or Chad to turn to. He doesn't want to have a fling, or attempt another serious relationship. He wants Scotty, and he has just walked out the door.
---
Scotty sliced the potato, his mind drifting to his date last night with the lawyer, and he couldn't help but smile. Kevin had been so cute. And then he remembered that the date hadn't ended as smoothly as it had began. It had been a perfect first date until he had tried to kiss Kevin. Actually he had succeeded. But, Kevin had been unhappy and the rest of the date had gone south after that. He wasn't about to let Kevin go that easily. Not quite knowing what he was going to say, Scotty grabbed his coat, and drove over to Kevin's loft. He stood outside his door and waited for Kevin to answer his knock.
---
Kevin ran his hand along the scruffy chin, and up to the short dark hair as his lips caressed those of his lover. No matter where they were in their relationship, everything always seemed better as they kissed. Not even just in a sensual way. With every kiss, Kevin felt reminded that Scotty was there for him. And as long as Scotty was there, Kevin knew he could be as strong as everyone needed him to be.
---
Scotty rubbed his hand along Kevin's back wishing he could do something, anything. Part of him knew he was "the other guy", but Scotty didn't care. He cared deeply about Kevin, and he hated to see Kevin hurt like this. Scotty wished he could tell Kevin what he was thinking: I want to go up to Jason and yell at him for hurting such a wonderful guy. He shouldn't take you for granted. But Scotty couldn't say that, because Kevin was just a friend kind enough to give him a spot to stay other than his car. Scotty knew that he loved Kevin, and he was afraid that would wind up making them both do something they'd regret.
---
Kevin traced the outline of one of his favorite ears with his fingertip. Scotty giggled at the light touch.
"I'm sorry, did I tickle you?"
"Yeah, a little bit. But it's okay. I liked it."
Kevin allowed his finger to trace the rest of the contours of Scotty's face, wondering if there was a way he could remember them.
---
Scotty's hand shook as he grabbed his ringing phone and answered it, "Hello?"
"Hey, Scotty, it's Kevin. I. . .I was wondering if you would mind coming over."
"What's wrong?"
"Jason hasn't called me back at all, and I just feel so lonely. I don't want to be alone right now, but I can't call my family because they'll just want to bug me about Jason, and I can't deal with that right now. And. . .I didn't know who else to call. Please Scotty?"
"Yeah. Of course. I'll be there." Of course he'd be there. Because no matter what was going on, part of him would always love Kevin, and would always want to be with him. He hated to see Kevin in pain, and he had to do all he could to fix it.
---
The pouring rain made no difference as Kevin's lips found Scotty's and Kevin's hands pressed Scotty's soaked shirt against his warm back. Both men were soaked by the shower which erupted on their walk, but being together, it seemed like the perfect ending to a perfect day. Kevin had to break the kiss so he could smile, and he could see love and content in Scotty's eyes.
---
"Kevin," Scotty whispered, wishing that could be enough to bring him back, but knowing it wouldn't be. Because when you say things in the dark, they fall on deaf ears. If only he could pick up the phone and call him. But he couldn't, because Kevin was with Jason now. Kevin was happy. That was all that matter really, wasn't it? At least that's what Scotty tried to convince himself as he rolled over on his stomach, burying his face into the pillow.
---
Kevin's hands ducked under Scotty's shirt, pressing into skin, pushing their bodies closer together, his hands moving upward until they had to part so Kevin could remove Scotty's shirt. The alcohol was making everything fuzzy, but this was all so familiar, that it didn't matter. The dinner had been wonderful, and neither had any recollection of falling asleep. But as they had sat on the couch talking about going to their separate beds, they had some how found a way to begin kissing. Jason was gone from both memories, as they seemed possessed by a power greater than them.
---
"He's gone," Scotty said to himself before covering his wet face with a pillow.
He had seen Kevin and Chad together that day, and had quickly ducked away before they saw him. He thought he was over Kevin, thought that the argument about the money had quenched all feelings he had for Kevin. Sure, it had been heartbreaking listening to Kevin's apology on the phone, but that didn't mean they had a future together. That was what Scotty wanted from a partner: a future. He no longer had time for flings. But seeing Kevin with another man, had brought such a flow of emotion to Scotty, that he knew he wasn't over Kevin. And there was nothing he could do about it.
---
Kevin was already asleep when Scotty came in, so he carefully slipped into bed, gently kissed Kevin's cheek and whispered, "I love you." Scotty was proud of himself for not waking up Kevin this time like he had in the past. Kevin really needed his sleep. Scotty wished he could call the law firm and request they not work Kevin so hard. The poor guy had to be running down his immune system fairly quickly.
---
Kevin wondered if he would forget how to breathe if he ever had the opportunity to see Scotty again. Late at night, if he couldn't fall asleep, instead of counting sheep, he would think back to all the good times they had had. It was tortuous, and Kevin knew he shouldn't do it, but somehow he couldn't prevent it. He missed Scotty too much to be able to just give up on him, on them. He loved Scotty.
---
Scotty looked at the chocolate without fully comprehending it before popping it into his mouth: chocolate and wine were the only ways he knew how to drown someone. He had taken to locking himself up in the small apartment he had been able to rent. He wasn't taking phone calls, and he knew that everyone was worried about him. But he didn't care. There was one person he needed to care, and he had stopped loving him long ago.
---
Kevin felt himself shaking as he slipped the gold band on Scotty's ring: the sign of his affection and devotion. He was trying to contain himself; all he really wanted to do was jump up and down and gather Scotty in a bear hug and just tell the world that he was married. Kevin had always had a love/hate relationship with his sexuality, depending on what his relationships were with the people around him. But at that moment, he wouldn't have traded it for anything. He and Scotty belonged together and he knew it.
---
"Shit!" Scotty shouted as blood began to ooze from his cut.
"Scotty? What's wrong?" one of the other chefs asked.
"Oh, I just got in a battle with the knife, and the knife won."
"Let me look at it." The chef gently held Scotty's hand as he inspected it.
"You have to go to the hospital. Now," the chef said, wrapping a towel around the hand.
"But what about--" Scotty motioned to the meal he was half way done preparing.
"You can't be around the food with an open wound, you know that. We can cover it, I promise. Just please go to the hospital."
Scotty dragged his feet as he headed out to his car. How was he going to pay for it? He had no health insurance. Part of him wanted to ask Kevin, knowing if he did Kevin would be more than willing to help. But he had more pride than that. He would have to come up with something.
---
"Of course," Kevin sighed, knowing there was nothing Scotty could ask of him that he wouldn't do.
Scotty sat on the other side of the desk, a relieved smile on his face.
"Thank you so much Kevin. I wasn't sure where to turn."
"You thought I'd say no?" Kevin couldn't help but feel a bit astonished. It was Scotty not him who had ended things.
"Well I didn't know. I mean with our past. . ."
"Scotty, that doesn't mean-- Actually, can we talk about this after the case? I don't want to seem like I'm mixing up my personal and professional opinions. But, I promise you, you have nothing to worry about. I'll do some research, and I'm sure I can find something on this guy. I know you, and I know you're responsible about things like this. But like I said before, please be more careful in the future."
Kevin didn't need to say more. Scotty could read it in his face and tone: because I don't know what I'd do if something happened to you.
"I promise. And thanks again."
---
Scotty took a deep breath to try and control the inevitable tears: this was it, it was over. He hadn't realized how much Kevin meant to him, until he had walked out of his life. It had been so easy at the time. But now that his temper had cooled, he realized that there was a strong possibility that he was in love with Kevin. And he had just thrown that all away over a stupid comment.
---
"I have all weekend off and I plan on spending every moment of it with my husband," Kevin announced.
Scotty couldn't help but smile, glad for both their sakes. Glad that Kevin finally had some time off. Glad that they would have some time together.
---
Scotty watched as Kevin's shirt fluttered as he ran ahead on the beach. He had never seen Kevin seem so long; and especially not recently. Kevin stopped and turned to face him.
"Com'on slow poke, don't let me win. I know I can't out run you."
With an evil smile, Scotty began to sprint, and didn't stop until he got to their agreed upon finish line. Then he turned around so that when Kevin arrived, he would be able to have Scotty's hug be his finish line instead.
"Sometimes second is just as good as first," Kevin commented, looking into Scotty's eyes.
"I'll second that," Scotty said as he kissed Kevin.
---
Kevin was already asleep when Scotty grabbed his hand and stared at the wedding band he placed on the finger. It still amazed him that he was here to stay. That Kevin had finally found it in himself to stay faithful. He knew Kevin was capable of it; he just hadn't imagined at first that he would be Kevin's reason to stay faithful.
---
Kevin looks out his window and thinks, "Star light, star bright, first star I see tonight, I wish I may, I wish I might, have this wish I wish tonight: Please let me find a way to fix what I have broken."
Kevin couldn't help but dwell that his life seemed to be a verse from a John Mayer song. "My stupid mouth has gotten me in trouble. . ." Why couldn't he seem to keep a hold on Scotty? They always seemed perfect for each other when things were going their way.
---
Scotty sighed as he stepped into the loft, and looked at the man hard at work, sitting at the desk in the corner. "Honey, I'm home."
"Hi Scotty," Kevin murmured, lost in the papers.
That wouldn't do for Scotty. So he walked over to Kevin, and began to massage his shoulders. He could feel Kevin start to relax as he leaned back in his chair, dropping his pencil to the desk and closing his eyes.
"Do I have your attention now?" Scotty asked.
"Mm-hm."
Scotty stopped the massage.
"Honey, I'm home."
Kevin stood up to face Scotty. "Welcome home," he said, and kissed Scotty.
"Thank you, that was much better."
---
Kevin brushed a hand on Scotty's cheek as he asked, "Can we never move?"
"I'm fine with staying like this forever," Scotty said, and nuzzled Kevin's nose.
---
Scotty looked so happy; how could Scotty be happy without him when he was so miserable without Scotty? He knew he was just being jealous, but Kevin wished that Scotty was as miserable as him. Didn't Scotty love him? But Scotty should be happy. But why couldn't Scotty be happy with him?
---
Kevin placed a wet wash cloth on Scotty's forehead, trying to bring down the fever.
"It's going to be okay sweetheart," he crooned.
Scotty groaned and tried turning over.
"It's okay, it's okay," Kevin reassured him, grabbing Scotty's hand.
---
Jordan was worried about Scotty: he never used to listen to such depressing music. He knew this was all about Kevin.
"Scotty, are you sure you don't want someone to talk to?" Jordan asked.
"I don't know how it could help," Scotty sighed, leaning against the back of the chair.
"Let's try it. First can we turn off this music?"
Scotty stood up and turned off the radio.
"Okay. So, this is about Kevin, right?"
"Yes." Scotty flopped back in his chair.
"Do you love him?"
"I think so. I don't know why."
"I wonder about that too. But Scotty, this isn't you. You're not yourself. Maybe you two just need to figure out why you keep breaking up and then find a way to make it work."
---
"Are you awake?" Scotty whispered, his hand grazing Kevin's naked thigh.
"Depends. Is something wrong?" Kevin mumbled.
"Not really. I just wanted to apologize."
"What?" Kevin sleepily sat up, and realized he was on the couch. "Oh, right, we had a fight."
"I shouldn't have gotten mad that you told Sarah about the threesome. But, it wasn't completely my idea. You were for it too."
"I know. I'm sorry Scotty."
"Are we okay then?"
"Of course. I love you."
"I love you too."
After a quick kiss, Scotty asked, "So will you come back to bed?"
"I'd love to."
---
"Scotty, please talk to me," Kevin pleaded, worried about the mask Scotty seemed to be wearing.
"I know we can work this out. I don't want to split up. But I need some space. I want to cool off before we continue this."
"Okay. But Scotty. . .I really am sorry."
---
How could Kevin stand to be so cute and what about that made him feel so alive? Scotty couldn't help but smile, and realized that he was staring at Kevin's lips. He longed to kiss them. So he leaned across the table and did. And Kevin visibly pulled back, and continued eating, completely ignoring what had just happened.
---
Kevin ran and wouldn't stop until he was knocking on the door.
"Look Scotty I. . ."
But Scotty had pulled him into a kiss before he could say why he was there.
"I forgive you," Scotty said.
"Just because I came over here?"
"Yes."
---
"Mmm," Kevin said as Scotty's lips parted from his. "I like that part."
"Me too."
---
"Oh Scotty, you are completely gone on this Kevin character; I can tell by the way you grin at the mere mention of his name," Quinn commented.
Scotty couldn't help but grin. "I really like him."
"You should let us meet him."
"Okay, I'll bring him by tomorrow. He has the day off."
---
A naked Scotty was in between Kevin's legs as Kevin lowered himself to make themselves one. Drunk or sober, this was their heaven.
---
Scotty stretched his fingers up, reaching for the sky, before interlocking them with Kevin's.
"Look, a perfect fit," Kevin commented.
"I like it."
"Me too."
---
The noise at the door had caused everyone to silence themselves, and the presents at the table in front of Kevin had lost all meaning: Scotty was in the doorway.
"Oh my god, Scotty!" Kevin said, jumping up.
"Happy birthday sweetheart."
Kevin enveloped Scotty in a hug.
"So how was New York?"
"I had a good time with my dad at the convention, but I missed you the whole time."
"I missed you too."
---
His eyes were red with tears and anger as he watched Kevin kiss another man. Could Kevin honestly be happy with him? He loves Kevin, and Kevin doesn't seem to even remember him. Scotty turned away and began a long walk home. He had come to see if he could reconcile with Kevin, but that's obviously out of the question.
---
"With this ring, I vow to remain forever faithful, forever yours." The words echo in Kevin's head, bringing him back to reality. Scotty isn't going to walk out on him, not this time.
Scotty glances down at his text message: "Baby, I love you, please come home." He can't help but smile despite himself. He still loves Kevin, and he isn't planning on leaving him.
"The rush is over, and I can afford to let a couple of you leave early. Wandell, Rhyan, and Bouse, get out of here."
Scotty quickly hurries home. He is surprised when he finds the door locked.
"Kevin?" he calls, walking into the dark loft.
Kevin eyes the chicken, thinking he has to make dinner perfect. Yes, that package looks good. He also needs to find some potatoes and some peas. And some salad. He rounds the aisle of the store, and pauses to look at the wine selection.
When he gets home, Kevin is confused to find the door unlocked. He remembered to lock it, right? He nervously opens it, and then to his surprise sees someone on the couch.
"Scotty!"
"Hey, where were you?"
"I. . .I was buy groceries to make us dinner. I was going to surprise you. I wanted to make this perfect. How did you get here so soon?"
"I got out early. Want help bringing in the groceries?"
"Yes, thanks." Kevin gives him a sincere smile.
The couple sits across from each other, the now empty plates before them.
"You know," Scotty says, playing with the ring on his finger, "Not all bonds are bad."
"I agree. I didn't mean to be such a jerk. Maybe I should work less and I wouldn't be so uptight."
"Let's go for a twilight walk," Scotty suggests.
The couple winds up down by the beach. Kevin lays his head on Scotty's shoulder as the ocean jumps at their feet. Scotty wraps his arm around Kevin's shoulders, causing Kevin to smile. He doesn't need the sun: the warmth of the man holding him is all he needs. Scotty moves his hand up, so his fingers can entangle with their favorite curls.
"Am I allowed to kiss you?" Kevin suddenly asks.
"You shouldn't have to ask."
Kevin gently kisses Scotty's lips, nervous and scared, not sure how he is worthy enough: Scotty deserves so much better. But the familiarity of it all, makes everything okay.
"I'm so glad this night is over," Scotty says, sinking on to the couch, his head landing on Kevin's chest. Kevin gets to hold Scotty again, and he can't imagine being with anyone else, because this is where he wants to be because this is what makes him happy, what makes him whole.
Author: willows_whiten
Claim: Kevin/Scotty from Brothers & Sisters
Table: Wedding Vows
Word Count: 3,506
Prompt: For Better, For Worse
Rating: PG-13
Summary: A fight threatens to break up Kevin and Scotty.
Warnings: Canonical slash.
Notes: I own nothing. I took something I did for 1sentence and tried to connect the sentences. I hadn't intended for them to be married when I started this, but because of the sentences I had previously written, they had to be. So I don't know if this change in plan is evident or not.
"What the hell were you thinking?" Kevin yells.
Scotty freezes, some of the leftovers from dinner on a plate in his hands.
"Why did you have to come back just then? Don't you trust me?"
"Of course I do," Scotty says meekly. "It's just. . ."
"Whatever. I don't want to hear it."
"Kevin, have you stopped loving me?"
It is out of shock, not due to the answer that Kevin can't speak. But it is all of the answer that Scotty needs.
"Fine, if that's the way you feel about me, I'm sorry I care so much." Scotty grabs his coat and storms out of the loft.
Kevin closes his eyes, thinking it isn't supposed to go down like this. He hadn't meant it like that, and once again Scotty has walked out of his life. Kevin has seen his share of men leave, and each one has hurt. But some how, some how this one is even worse. This is different. He thought they had gotten past his stupidity. Wasn't that why they had gotten back together the last time? But this time, he doesn't have Jason or Chad to turn to. He doesn't want to have a fling, or attempt another serious relationship. He wants Scotty, and he has just walked out the door.
---
Scotty sliced the potato, his mind drifting to his date last night with the lawyer, and he couldn't help but smile. Kevin had been so cute. And then he remembered that the date hadn't ended as smoothly as it had began. It had been a perfect first date until he had tried to kiss Kevin. Actually he had succeeded. But, Kevin had been unhappy and the rest of the date had gone south after that. He wasn't about to let Kevin go that easily. Not quite knowing what he was going to say, Scotty grabbed his coat, and drove over to Kevin's loft. He stood outside his door and waited for Kevin to answer his knock.
---
Kevin ran his hand along the scruffy chin, and up to the short dark hair as his lips caressed those of his lover. No matter where they were in their relationship, everything always seemed better as they kissed. Not even just in a sensual way. With every kiss, Kevin felt reminded that Scotty was there for him. And as long as Scotty was there, Kevin knew he could be as strong as everyone needed him to be.
---
Scotty rubbed his hand along Kevin's back wishing he could do something, anything. Part of him knew he was "the other guy", but Scotty didn't care. He cared deeply about Kevin, and he hated to see Kevin hurt like this. Scotty wished he could tell Kevin what he was thinking: I want to go up to Jason and yell at him for hurting such a wonderful guy. He shouldn't take you for granted. But Scotty couldn't say that, because Kevin was just a friend kind enough to give him a spot to stay other than his car. Scotty knew that he loved Kevin, and he was afraid that would wind up making them both do something they'd regret.
---
Kevin traced the outline of one of his favorite ears with his fingertip. Scotty giggled at the light touch.
"I'm sorry, did I tickle you?"
"Yeah, a little bit. But it's okay. I liked it."
Kevin allowed his finger to trace the rest of the contours of Scotty's face, wondering if there was a way he could remember them.
---
Scotty's hand shook as he grabbed his ringing phone and answered it, "Hello?"
"Hey, Scotty, it's Kevin. I. . .I was wondering if you would mind coming over."
"What's wrong?"
"Jason hasn't called me back at all, and I just feel so lonely. I don't want to be alone right now, but I can't call my family because they'll just want to bug me about Jason, and I can't deal with that right now. And. . .I didn't know who else to call. Please Scotty?"
"Yeah. Of course. I'll be there." Of course he'd be there. Because no matter what was going on, part of him would always love Kevin, and would always want to be with him. He hated to see Kevin in pain, and he had to do all he could to fix it.
---
The pouring rain made no difference as Kevin's lips found Scotty's and Kevin's hands pressed Scotty's soaked shirt against his warm back. Both men were soaked by the shower which erupted on their walk, but being together, it seemed like the perfect ending to a perfect day. Kevin had to break the kiss so he could smile, and he could see love and content in Scotty's eyes.
---
"Kevin," Scotty whispered, wishing that could be enough to bring him back, but knowing it wouldn't be. Because when you say things in the dark, they fall on deaf ears. If only he could pick up the phone and call him. But he couldn't, because Kevin was with Jason now. Kevin was happy. That was all that matter really, wasn't it? At least that's what Scotty tried to convince himself as he rolled over on his stomach, burying his face into the pillow.
---
Kevin's hands ducked under Scotty's shirt, pressing into skin, pushing their bodies closer together, his hands moving upward until they had to part so Kevin could remove Scotty's shirt. The alcohol was making everything fuzzy, but this was all so familiar, that it didn't matter. The dinner had been wonderful, and neither had any recollection of falling asleep. But as they had sat on the couch talking about going to their separate beds, they had some how found a way to begin kissing. Jason was gone from both memories, as they seemed possessed by a power greater than them.
---
"He's gone," Scotty said to himself before covering his wet face with a pillow.
He had seen Kevin and Chad together that day, and had quickly ducked away before they saw him. He thought he was over Kevin, thought that the argument about the money had quenched all feelings he had for Kevin. Sure, it had been heartbreaking listening to Kevin's apology on the phone, but that didn't mean they had a future together. That was what Scotty wanted from a partner: a future. He no longer had time for flings. But seeing Kevin with another man, had brought such a flow of emotion to Scotty, that he knew he wasn't over Kevin. And there was nothing he could do about it.
---
Kevin was already asleep when Scotty came in, so he carefully slipped into bed, gently kissed Kevin's cheek and whispered, "I love you." Scotty was proud of himself for not waking up Kevin this time like he had in the past. Kevin really needed his sleep. Scotty wished he could call the law firm and request they not work Kevin so hard. The poor guy had to be running down his immune system fairly quickly.
---
Kevin wondered if he would forget how to breathe if he ever had the opportunity to see Scotty again. Late at night, if he couldn't fall asleep, instead of counting sheep, he would think back to all the good times they had had. It was tortuous, and Kevin knew he shouldn't do it, but somehow he couldn't prevent it. He missed Scotty too much to be able to just give up on him, on them. He loved Scotty.
---
Scotty looked at the chocolate without fully comprehending it before popping it into his mouth: chocolate and wine were the only ways he knew how to drown someone. He had taken to locking himself up in the small apartment he had been able to rent. He wasn't taking phone calls, and he knew that everyone was worried about him. But he didn't care. There was one person he needed to care, and he had stopped loving him long ago.
---
Kevin felt himself shaking as he slipped the gold band on Scotty's ring: the sign of his affection and devotion. He was trying to contain himself; all he really wanted to do was jump up and down and gather Scotty in a bear hug and just tell the world that he was married. Kevin had always had a love/hate relationship with his sexuality, depending on what his relationships were with the people around him. But at that moment, he wouldn't have traded it for anything. He and Scotty belonged together and he knew it.
---
"Shit!" Scotty shouted as blood began to ooze from his cut.
"Scotty? What's wrong?" one of the other chefs asked.
"Oh, I just got in a battle with the knife, and the knife won."
"Let me look at it." The chef gently held Scotty's hand as he inspected it.
"You have to go to the hospital. Now," the chef said, wrapping a towel around the hand.
"But what about--" Scotty motioned to the meal he was half way done preparing.
"You can't be around the food with an open wound, you know that. We can cover it, I promise. Just please go to the hospital."
Scotty dragged his feet as he headed out to his car. How was he going to pay for it? He had no health insurance. Part of him wanted to ask Kevin, knowing if he did Kevin would be more than willing to help. But he had more pride than that. He would have to come up with something.
---
"Of course," Kevin sighed, knowing there was nothing Scotty could ask of him that he wouldn't do.
Scotty sat on the other side of the desk, a relieved smile on his face.
"Thank you so much Kevin. I wasn't sure where to turn."
"You thought I'd say no?" Kevin couldn't help but feel a bit astonished. It was Scotty not him who had ended things.
"Well I didn't know. I mean with our past. . ."
"Scotty, that doesn't mean-- Actually, can we talk about this after the case? I don't want to seem like I'm mixing up my personal and professional opinions. But, I promise you, you have nothing to worry about. I'll do some research, and I'm sure I can find something on this guy. I know you, and I know you're responsible about things like this. But like I said before, please be more careful in the future."
Kevin didn't need to say more. Scotty could read it in his face and tone: because I don't know what I'd do if something happened to you.
"I promise. And thanks again."
---
Scotty took a deep breath to try and control the inevitable tears: this was it, it was over. He hadn't realized how much Kevin meant to him, until he had walked out of his life. It had been so easy at the time. But now that his temper had cooled, he realized that there was a strong possibility that he was in love with Kevin. And he had just thrown that all away over a stupid comment.
---
"I have all weekend off and I plan on spending every moment of it with my husband," Kevin announced.
Scotty couldn't help but smile, glad for both their sakes. Glad that Kevin finally had some time off. Glad that they would have some time together.
---
Scotty watched as Kevin's shirt fluttered as he ran ahead on the beach. He had never seen Kevin seem so long; and especially not recently. Kevin stopped and turned to face him.
"Com'on slow poke, don't let me win. I know I can't out run you."
With an evil smile, Scotty began to sprint, and didn't stop until he got to their agreed upon finish line. Then he turned around so that when Kevin arrived, he would be able to have Scotty's hug be his finish line instead.
"Sometimes second is just as good as first," Kevin commented, looking into Scotty's eyes.
"I'll second that," Scotty said as he kissed Kevin.
---
Kevin was already asleep when Scotty grabbed his hand and stared at the wedding band he placed on the finger. It still amazed him that he was here to stay. That Kevin had finally found it in himself to stay faithful. He knew Kevin was capable of it; he just hadn't imagined at first that he would be Kevin's reason to stay faithful.
---
Kevin looks out his window and thinks, "Star light, star bright, first star I see tonight, I wish I may, I wish I might, have this wish I wish tonight: Please let me find a way to fix what I have broken."
Kevin couldn't help but dwell that his life seemed to be a verse from a John Mayer song. "My stupid mouth has gotten me in trouble. . ." Why couldn't he seem to keep a hold on Scotty? They always seemed perfect for each other when things were going their way.
---
Scotty sighed as he stepped into the loft, and looked at the man hard at work, sitting at the desk in the corner. "Honey, I'm home."
"Hi Scotty," Kevin murmured, lost in the papers.
That wouldn't do for Scotty. So he walked over to Kevin, and began to massage his shoulders. He could feel Kevin start to relax as he leaned back in his chair, dropping his pencil to the desk and closing his eyes.
"Do I have your attention now?" Scotty asked.
"Mm-hm."
Scotty stopped the massage.
"Honey, I'm home."
Kevin stood up to face Scotty. "Welcome home," he said, and kissed Scotty.
"Thank you, that was much better."
---
Kevin brushed a hand on Scotty's cheek as he asked, "Can we never move?"
"I'm fine with staying like this forever," Scotty said, and nuzzled Kevin's nose.
---
Scotty looked so happy; how could Scotty be happy without him when he was so miserable without Scotty? He knew he was just being jealous, but Kevin wished that Scotty was as miserable as him. Didn't Scotty love him? But Scotty should be happy. But why couldn't Scotty be happy with him?
---
Kevin placed a wet wash cloth on Scotty's forehead, trying to bring down the fever.
"It's going to be okay sweetheart," he crooned.
Scotty groaned and tried turning over.
"It's okay, it's okay," Kevin reassured him, grabbing Scotty's hand.
---
Jordan was worried about Scotty: he never used to listen to such depressing music. He knew this was all about Kevin.
"Scotty, are you sure you don't want someone to talk to?" Jordan asked.
"I don't know how it could help," Scotty sighed, leaning against the back of the chair.
"Let's try it. First can we turn off this music?"
Scotty stood up and turned off the radio.
"Okay. So, this is about Kevin, right?"
"Yes." Scotty flopped back in his chair.
"Do you love him?"
"I think so. I don't know why."
"I wonder about that too. But Scotty, this isn't you. You're not yourself. Maybe you two just need to figure out why you keep breaking up and then find a way to make it work."
---
"Are you awake?" Scotty whispered, his hand grazing Kevin's naked thigh.
"Depends. Is something wrong?" Kevin mumbled.
"Not really. I just wanted to apologize."
"What?" Kevin sleepily sat up, and realized he was on the couch. "Oh, right, we had a fight."
"I shouldn't have gotten mad that you told Sarah about the threesome. But, it wasn't completely my idea. You were for it too."
"I know. I'm sorry Scotty."
"Are we okay then?"
"Of course. I love you."
"I love you too."
After a quick kiss, Scotty asked, "So will you come back to bed?"
"I'd love to."
---
"Scotty, please talk to me," Kevin pleaded, worried about the mask Scotty seemed to be wearing.
"I know we can work this out. I don't want to split up. But I need some space. I want to cool off before we continue this."
"Okay. But Scotty. . .I really am sorry."
---
How could Kevin stand to be so cute and what about that made him feel so alive? Scotty couldn't help but smile, and realized that he was staring at Kevin's lips. He longed to kiss them. So he leaned across the table and did. And Kevin visibly pulled back, and continued eating, completely ignoring what had just happened.
---
Kevin ran and wouldn't stop until he was knocking on the door.
"Look Scotty I. . ."
But Scotty had pulled him into a kiss before he could say why he was there.
"I forgive you," Scotty said.
"Just because I came over here?"
"Yes."
---
"Mmm," Kevin said as Scotty's lips parted from his. "I like that part."
"Me too."
---
"Oh Scotty, you are completely gone on this Kevin character; I can tell by the way you grin at the mere mention of his name," Quinn commented.
Scotty couldn't help but grin. "I really like him."
"You should let us meet him."
"Okay, I'll bring him by tomorrow. He has the day off."
---
A naked Scotty was in between Kevin's legs as Kevin lowered himself to make themselves one. Drunk or sober, this was their heaven.
---
Scotty stretched his fingers up, reaching for the sky, before interlocking them with Kevin's.
"Look, a perfect fit," Kevin commented.
"I like it."
"Me too."
---
The noise at the door had caused everyone to silence themselves, and the presents at the table in front of Kevin had lost all meaning: Scotty was in the doorway.
"Oh my god, Scotty!" Kevin said, jumping up.
"Happy birthday sweetheart."
Kevin enveloped Scotty in a hug.
"So how was New York?"
"I had a good time with my dad at the convention, but I missed you the whole time."
"I missed you too."
---
His eyes were red with tears and anger as he watched Kevin kiss another man. Could Kevin honestly be happy with him? He loves Kevin, and Kevin doesn't seem to even remember him. Scotty turned away and began a long walk home. He had come to see if he could reconcile with Kevin, but that's obviously out of the question.
---
"With this ring, I vow to remain forever faithful, forever yours." The words echo in Kevin's head, bringing him back to reality. Scotty isn't going to walk out on him, not this time.
Scotty glances down at his text message: "Baby, I love you, please come home." He can't help but smile despite himself. He still loves Kevin, and he isn't planning on leaving him.
"The rush is over, and I can afford to let a couple of you leave early. Wandell, Rhyan, and Bouse, get out of here."
Scotty quickly hurries home. He is surprised when he finds the door locked.
"Kevin?" he calls, walking into the dark loft.
Kevin eyes the chicken, thinking he has to make dinner perfect. Yes, that package looks good. He also needs to find some potatoes and some peas. And some salad. He rounds the aisle of the store, and pauses to look at the wine selection.
When he gets home, Kevin is confused to find the door unlocked. He remembered to lock it, right? He nervously opens it, and then to his surprise sees someone on the couch.
"Scotty!"
"Hey, where were you?"
"I. . .I was buy groceries to make us dinner. I was going to surprise you. I wanted to make this perfect. How did you get here so soon?"
"I got out early. Want help bringing in the groceries?"
"Yes, thanks." Kevin gives him a sincere smile.
The couple sits across from each other, the now empty plates before them.
"You know," Scotty says, playing with the ring on his finger, "Not all bonds are bad."
"I agree. I didn't mean to be such a jerk. Maybe I should work less and I wouldn't be so uptight."
"Let's go for a twilight walk," Scotty suggests.
The couple winds up down by the beach. Kevin lays his head on Scotty's shoulder as the ocean jumps at their feet. Scotty wraps his arm around Kevin's shoulders, causing Kevin to smile. He doesn't need the sun: the warmth of the man holding him is all he needs. Scotty moves his hand up, so his fingers can entangle with their favorite curls.
"Am I allowed to kiss you?" Kevin suddenly asks.
"You shouldn't have to ask."
Kevin gently kisses Scotty's lips, nervous and scared, not sure how he is worthy enough: Scotty deserves so much better. But the familiarity of it all, makes everything okay.
"I'm so glad this night is over," Scotty says, sinking on to the couch, his head landing on Kevin's chest. Kevin gets to hold Scotty again, and he can't imagine being with anyone else, because this is where he wants to be because this is what makes him happy, what makes him whole.