Louder Than Thunder [14]
Title: Louder Than Thunder [14]
Author: Jess>>>> bangxbangxdie7
Pairing:Micah/Jack and Stevie/Shaun *Original characters (link below)
Rating: PG-13ish
POV: Third
Summary: Micah and Shaun are two totally different guys with very different lives. One thing they share is a boyfriend with cancer. When they meet, they help each other cope even though they sometimes feel guilty about it...
Disclaimer: Don't own. Don't copy.
Author Note: Hey guys this is my new story =] I love you, and I hope you like it <33 Please comment?
Characters. / Info.
What would it take,
for things to be quiet,
quiet like the snow.
And I know this isn't much but...
I know I could be better.
I don't think I deserve it, selflessness.
Find your way into my heart.
All stars could be brighter.
All hearts could be warmer.
Are we meant to be empty handed?
Don't think about chances we're taking.
The list goes on and on...
dance until the band stops playing.
Stevie and Shaun were at the hospital, playing cards while Stevie received his chemo. Shaun was supposed to be in school, but he wanted to be there for Stevie. Laura and Mitch went with Stevie most times, but other times they couldn't because of work, so Shaun was there to drive him. Shaun felt bad that Stevie had to postpone his driving test because he wasn't up to it. He knew how badly Stevie wanted to be able to drive, not only because he had a car, but he didn't want Shaun to feel like his chauffeur all the time.
"Got any 3s?" Shaun asked his boyfriend, hoping that he did so he'd get a match.
"Nope. Go fish. Got any kings?"
Shaun sighed, picked up a card and gave Stevie his king. "I think you cheat, Mr. lets play go fish instead of anything else. You picked this cause you know how to cheat."
Stevie smiled and shook his head. "I swear I'm not cheating. It's just luck. You just happen to have the exact cards I need when I need them, but I don't seem to have the cards you need. You just don't know how to ask for the right card. That's all. Not my fault." Stevie bit his lip, trying to suppress a laugh.
"No I think you lie because every time I ask you if you have something you tell me no and then five seconds later you ask me for the same card. Now you have like 10 matches and I have zero. You little..."
Stevie burst out laughing. "Shaun calm down, I...ok yeah I'm cheating a little bit. But only because I like to see your cute little face all frustrated. I'll play fair next game, I promise."
Shaun couldn't get mad at his boyfriend. He was sitting there in a hard chair with a needle in his arm getting pumped with poison.
"You're a poo-head. Yeah I just called you a poo-head because I don't wanna use foul language in front of these nice people. But anyway, go ahead and take all your matches. Cause we're playing memory now. You can't possibly cheat in memory. We need another table though cause one won't fit all these cards. Just sit tight and I'll go get one, okay?"
Stevie nodded. "Not like I can really move, Dear, unless I wanna wheel my bag with me."
Shaun frowned, and got up to look for another desk.
Stevie made sure he was semi-out of sight before he pressed his hand to his chest. He was feeling slight pain, but he didn't want to scare Shaun. He really didn't want Shaun to get a doctor. He was afraid that they would tell him more bad news. He bit his lip as the pain got worse.
"Honey, are you feeling okay? Not to get in your business but if there's somethin' wrong you should say. Learned that the hard way," a older women who was sitting across form him said.
"I'm okay thanks I just...maybe something I ate. I'll be okay. Thank you though," he said politely, hand still on his chest.
"The longer you wait to say somethin' the worse it'll be for you sweetheart. And I don't think you or your boyfriend would like that very much. You should press your little button and call for a nurse. Chest pain is not a good sign."
Shaun's ears unfortunately didn't fall deaf to that statement. "Stevie, you're experiencing chest pains? And you didn't tell me? Why? I'll go get your doctor right away-" Stevie grabbed his boyfriend's arm.
"Shaun, Shaun, it's okay. Stop freaking out. It's indigestion. I'll be fine. The nice lady was just trying to help, but it's not what she thinks it is."
Shaun shook his head. "You are stubborn Stevie, if anyone knows that it's me. Please let go of me so I can get someone to help you. Okay? Trust me baby, it'll be all right. I'm here, we'll get through whatever it is."
Stevie took a breath and agreed with Shaun. "O-Okay. I'll just...wait here while you get someone. Thanks."
He regretted showing signs of pain. He should have tried to fight it. Then the old lady wouldn't see it, wouldn't say anything, and ultimately wouldn't upset Shaun.
He tried not to glare at the women while waiting for the doctor to arrive. It wasn't her fault, he just wanted someone to blame.
"Hello Steven. Shaun tells me you have pains in your chest. Can you point to me where exactly? Is it around where your lump is?"
Stevie nodded and pointed to his chest where his small bump was located. His doctor put on rubber gloves and ran her hand under his shirt to examine his lump.
"I just need to lift up your shirt to see it, is that okay?" Stevie gave her approval and lifted his shirt for her.
She grazed over it a couple more times, and pressed on it with a bit of pressure. Stevie winced, but didn't make any noise.
"It shouldn't be painful. It doesn't look any different than it did the last time I saw you, so I wouldn't say anything negative. But I do think we should remove it. It's most likely putting pressure on tissue and causing you to feel pain. Describe the pain for me, does it burn, throb, feel heavy, or hurt to breathe?"
Stevie looked over to Shaun. "It feels heavy...and kinda burns too. But- I need surgery? I never had surgery before...I- I'm scared."
The doctor gave the teen a small smile. "It's normal to be scared, and I'm going to talk to your mom about it first, so you can relax for now. I'll go over everything with you when the time comes. Like I said, its indirectly related to your cancer so it's not top priority. But it is causing you pain so it does need to be removed. Maybe we can make the appointment for Friday afternoon so you won't miss school."
Stevie heard his monitor beep, and he had never been more thankful for his chemo to be over.
"Yeah um, I'll tell my mom to call your office when she gets home from work. Can you please take the needle out now, I have to use the bathroom."
She nodded and listened to Stevie, pulling the needle out slowly and carefully.
Shaun frowned. "Do you want me to come with you?"
Stevie held up his hand silently denying his boyfriend. Shaun knew he didn't have to use the bathroom. He only wanted to be away from everyone so he could deal with this new news. Shaun felt terrible, but he knew he did the right thing.
For some reason he thought of Micah, and maybe he could help him. He wasn't sure if he had texting...even though he didn't look old or anything. He gave him his cell number and not a home number, he could tell by the first three numbers, so he felt it was safe to text.
Hey Micah, it's Shaun. I hope you remember me. I wanted to thank you again for everything you've done for me but I have a favor to ask. Stevie needs surgery and he's scared and I don't know what to do. Maybe you've been through a similar thing and can help me? I'm sorry to bother you, you don't have to feel obligated to help me. Just get back to me when you can. Thank you. -Shaun
Shaun bit his lip as he waited for Stevie to return. He really hoped Micah would text him back soon. He wasn't sure how to comfort Stevie, and that's all he wanted to do.
When Stevie did not return after a few minutes, Shaun went into the bathroom to find him. He heard sniffles coming from a stall, and immediately he knew it was Stevie. He knocked on the plastic three times with his knuckle.
"Stevie, please don't cry. Everything is fine, you just need a small little itsy bitsy surgery. They're just gonna make you go to sleep for a little bit and before you know it you'll be awake and your chest pain will be all gone. Then you don't have to worry about it."
He heard Stevie unlock the door. Shaun hated to see his lover so upset, so down in the dumps. He wished it all away so many times. He prayed for him every night before he went to sleep for him to be cured so could be happy and healthy. Like he deserved to be.
"I know, Shaun. I'm just being a baby about it. But...I just can't help but feel like this is only the beginning. Like, this is the start of me dying; like really dying. When I wake up I don't feel like I'm gonna die. When I feel tired I don't feel like I'm gonna die. I don't even feel like I'm gonna die when I get chemo. But now, I need surgery. They need to cut me open to fix me. What if something goes wrong? What if they find something else that's wrong with me...what if I'm allergic to anesthesia and they can't do it unless I'm awake? I-"
Shaun held onto his boyfriend's face with both hands and looked him right in the eyes.
"Look at me Stevie, look here," he tried to smile. "...you aren't going to die. I know I shouldn't make a promise like this, but I'm going to. Because I believe in your strength as much as humanly possible. Steven Pavacic, I promise you will not die. Okay? You have cancer, and you're really sick, but you're getting treated for it...you got it looked at just in time. Nothing bad is going to happen to you because of this surgery, baby. These doctors are great and they're going to help you. Just believe in that, okay, please please believe in that."
Stevie buried his head in Shaun's shoulder and he hugged him. He didn't know what else to do. He felt a little bit better after Shaun's motivational words but he couldn't help but still feel scared. He would have to be brave, for his parents and for Shaun. And he had to be strong, as strong as Shaun thought he was, because that was what would get him through everything.
~
Jack had slept most of the day, after his brother had left. He didn't get a chance to read Micah's note about his breakfast in the microwave, and he didn't get a chance to do much of anything else. But it was okay. Because he only had dreams of Ian and Lily, and he envisioned such a happy place in his mind. He tried to age his sister 5 years, and he pictured her hair to be so long and beautiful. He remembered that she had the shiniest hair a little girl could have. He remembered that she liked to have it played with before she fell asleep. He missed her so much.
Micah was worried when he arrived home and Jack was still asleep. That never happened before, because Jack had his naps. He didn't wake Jack, he just figured he was extra tired. He had assumed that Jack had a busy day of running errands he wasn't supposed to or something along those lines. Jack was just too much sometimes, and Micah had never felt so blessed. He was always pushing himself.
He had carried Jack upstairs and lied him gently in their bed, took off his pants and replaced them with sweats. He then got himself ready for bed and proceeded to lie next to the love of his life.
Jack woke up at the same exact time as his lover, causing him to smile. That almost never happened. Micah was always up before him.
"Hey there good lookin'," he said in a sleepy voice. "...you're so freaking adorable when you just wake up. With your messy hair and half closed eyes. Gimme a kiss."
Micah sighed happily and placed a loving kiss to his cheek. "Good morning sleepy boy. You must have slept for a full 24 hours yesterday, when I got home you were out like a light. Did you go running around like I told you not to because I'd handle it? Hmm?"
Jack gave his boyfriend a crooked smile as he sat up. Micah did the same and Jack curled up next to him. "No. I slept for so long because my nap was interrupted but- before you say anything, I was so glad that it happened. It was the most welcomed interruption I could have been presented with." He started to tickle Micah's strong arms. "...My little brother came to visit. He hired someone to find me. And he did. My 15 year old brother took a taxi to come here and spend time with me."
Micah was astonished. "Wow, Jack that's fantastic! I'm so happy for you, sweetie. What did you guys do...what did you talk about? Did you tell him about me?"
Jack was surprised at how excited Micah was for him. He knew he loved him for a reason. "We just got connected, you know? He told me about my parents and my sister. I asked him questions, vice versa. Of course I told him about you, and how much I love you. I told him the whole story about why I 'left' and whatnot. He totally doesn't care that I'm gay, which was such a pleasant surprise. And the best part is that he's coming back today."
Micah squeezed his lover tight. "That's amazing! I'll call in so I'll be home. That is so great...I can't believe it. You really deserve this, Jack. So much. But...I just have one question."
Jack furrowed his eyebrows and looked up at Micah. "What?"
"I bet the 'reunion' was amazing and all, and you both were really happy and stuff but...how did he react when you told him that you had cancer? Or...let me guess. You didn't tell him?"
Jack sighed sadly. "I just couldn't, Micah. I couldn't rip his smile away from him. And I won't. I'm not going to tell him, at least, not tonight. So please stay mum about it? Don't make me beg."
Micah kissed Jack's forehead. "Of course I won't, but you've got to tell him sometime. I mean, I know he's young so he probably won't guess it himself. But he's not an idiot, he's going to realize something is wrong if you're napping every time he comes over. Just remember that," he kissed him again before reaching over to grab his cell phone. "...but on the bright side, yay, I get to re-meet him. So you get ready when you're up to it and I'll call in right now. I'll make us some breakfast and perhaps we can all go out for a bite later? How does that sound?"
Jack stretched his body with a smirk. "Sounds great. I'll get my butt moving now so I can help you with breakfast. I feel good today, so you don't have to worry about me, okay? Seeing Ian again...and actually getting to talk to him and hug him...after 5 years, God it felt so good. It made my spirit that much brighter. So, maybe this is the start of something really great, Micah. I have a really good feeling about this."
Micah really wanted that to be true. There wasn't anything more in the world he wanted more than to see Jack happy and cancer free. Maybe he was right, maybe Ian coming out of nowhere meant good things were in store for them. They could only hope.
"Hi Destiny, it's Micah- obviously from my accent ha, um I'm sorry but I can't come in today. Jack's fine, so no worries. It's good news. I'll fill you in some other time. Thank you, Des. See you tomorrow. Okay bye." Micah hung up with a smile. "So how does chocolate chip banana pancakes sound? Or pumpkin whole wheat pancakes. Or apple cinnamon waffles? Your pick."
Jack slid out of their bed and walked around towards the bathroom. "Wow, extravagant choices you got there. Hmm. How about the pumpkin whole wheat ones because I haven't tried that kind yet. I'm going to jump in the shower real quick then I'll come help you. Unless...you'd like to join me?"
Micah did not have to be asked twice. He followed his lover into the bathroom, and undressed him as well as himself. He was glad that Jack was so happy all of a sudden. It was almost as if he wasn't even sick. He was in such a good mood, and he couldn't have been happier for him.
After their shower that lasted 45 minutes, they emerged, ready to start their day. They got dressed, made pancakes, relaxed for a bit and watched a movie. They never had a more clam day. Jack fell asleep for about a half hour, but he woke up just before his brother arrived. He was thankful for that, because Micah was right, Ian would start to catch on if Jack was sleeping all the time.
"Hi Ian, I'm not sure how well you remember me. But it's very nice to see you again. You've grew some inches." Micah said with a laugh to his voice.
Ian gave a cheeky grin and shook the older mans hand. "I remember you and your wicked cool accent. Could you make my day and say 'riper' please, they always have it in those Australian lingo books and whatnot."
Micah laughed again. "Riper," he said, of course it sounded more like 'reepah.'
"Oh I love it. Jack, don't you make him say things like that like, all day?"
Jack shook his head. "At first, but not now. It's normal I mean...he's from Australia. He speaks with an accent, and yes, it is awesome. You can make him say whatever you want, but why don't you make yourself comfortable and come sit down. We still have so much to talk about."
Ian followed the pair into their living room where they all had a seat on the couch.
"I won't make him say anything else, I bet that gets annoying, haha. But Jack I actually have something for you. Since...I can't bring Lily in person I have a recent picture of her. You can keep it, I have another at the house so mom won't know it's gone. Here."
Jack gasped at how beautiful his little sister is turning out to be. He never remembered her eyes so blue. "Wow she's is so pretty. You better watch out for her in a few years when boys start to like her. Seriously. Wow. I can't get over how grown up she looks. The last time I saw her...she was 5, holy crap."
Ian giggled. "Yeah our sister is really cute. We all kinda look the same though, don't you think? We're just a good looking family. Not to brag. You just need to let your hair grow back. Why'd you shave it anyway? I mean, you can't be losing your hair at this age, dad didn't even start yet."
Micah and Jack held back their frowns. "Actually it's a funny story. I made a dumb mistake by letting my girl friend...Destiny cut my hair and she really messed it up so I got my hair-cutter to just buzz it all off. Should be back to normal in a few weeks. No big deal."
Micah coughed.
"Well you can borrow some of my beanies if you want, you know, until it all grows in nice. Oh and before I forget, I wanted to ask you if you wanted to come paint-balling with me and a couple friends this weekend, just as a guys night out thing. Totally understand if it's not your thing but I just thought I'd ask. Micah, you're welcome to come too."
Jack felt his heart race...how to explain this one, he didn't know. "We'd love to but we can't...we work...a lot. But thanks for thinking of us, really. I have an idea, how about we go see that movie, the scary one. Paranormal Activity 2. You know, when we have time. Doesn't that sound nice?"
Saved by Micah.
"Sure. Yeah, I wasn't really expecting you to come- not because you're gay, I really didn't mean it like that. You guys are probably really good at paint ball. Just like anyone else would be. But um yeah, I'm going to stop talking now because I just sound dumb."
Jack chuckled. "You don't sound dumb. It's okay. Really. We've never paint-balled in our lives so yeah. You go and have fun."
Micah took out his phone to see that he had a text from an unknown number.
Hey Micah, it's Shaun. I hope you remember me. I wanted to thank you again for everything you've done for me but I have a favor to ask. Stevie needs surgery and he's scared and I don't know what to do. Maybe you've been through a similar thing and can help me? I'm sorry to bother you, you don't have to feel obligated to help me. Just get back to be when you can. Thank you. -Shaun
Micah bit his lip and made a mental note in his head to respond to Shaun later. Poor, poor Shaun.
Jack smiled for the millionth time. "God, this is so great. I love the three of us here, together, talking...isn't it amazing?"
And they nodded. Everything seemed so perfect.
Author: Jess>>>> bangxbangxdie7
Pairing:Micah/Jack and Stevie/Shaun *Original characters (link below)
Rating: PG-13ish
POV: Third
Summary: Micah and Shaun are two totally different guys with very different lives. One thing they share is a boyfriend with cancer. When they meet, they help each other cope even though they sometimes feel guilty about it...
Disclaimer: Don't own. Don't copy.
Author Note: Hey guys this is my new story =] I love you, and I hope you like it <33 Please comment?
Characters. / Info.
What would it take,
for things to be quiet,
quiet like the snow.
And I know this isn't much but...
I know I could be better.
I don't think I deserve it, selflessness.
Find your way into my heart.
All stars could be brighter.
All hearts could be warmer.
Are we meant to be empty handed?
Don't think about chances we're taking.
The list goes on and on...
dance until the band stops playing.
Stevie and Shaun were at the hospital, playing cards while Stevie received his chemo. Shaun was supposed to be in school, but he wanted to be there for Stevie. Laura and Mitch went with Stevie most times, but other times they couldn't because of work, so Shaun was there to drive him. Shaun felt bad that Stevie had to postpone his driving test because he wasn't up to it. He knew how badly Stevie wanted to be able to drive, not only because he had a car, but he didn't want Shaun to feel like his chauffeur all the time.
"Got any 3s?" Shaun asked his boyfriend, hoping that he did so he'd get a match.
"Nope. Go fish. Got any kings?"
Shaun sighed, picked up a card and gave Stevie his king. "I think you cheat, Mr. lets play go fish instead of anything else. You picked this cause you know how to cheat."
Stevie smiled and shook his head. "I swear I'm not cheating. It's just luck. You just happen to have the exact cards I need when I need them, but I don't seem to have the cards you need. You just don't know how to ask for the right card. That's all. Not my fault." Stevie bit his lip, trying to suppress a laugh.
"No I think you lie because every time I ask you if you have something you tell me no and then five seconds later you ask me for the same card. Now you have like 10 matches and I have zero. You little..."
Stevie burst out laughing. "Shaun calm down, I...ok yeah I'm cheating a little bit. But only because I like to see your cute little face all frustrated. I'll play fair next game, I promise."
Shaun couldn't get mad at his boyfriend. He was sitting there in a hard chair with a needle in his arm getting pumped with poison.
"You're a poo-head. Yeah I just called you a poo-head because I don't wanna use foul language in front of these nice people. But anyway, go ahead and take all your matches. Cause we're playing memory now. You can't possibly cheat in memory. We need another table though cause one won't fit all these cards. Just sit tight and I'll go get one, okay?"
Stevie nodded. "Not like I can really move, Dear, unless I wanna wheel my bag with me."
Shaun frowned, and got up to look for another desk.
Stevie made sure he was semi-out of sight before he pressed his hand to his chest. He was feeling slight pain, but he didn't want to scare Shaun. He really didn't want Shaun to get a doctor. He was afraid that they would tell him more bad news. He bit his lip as the pain got worse.
"Honey, are you feeling okay? Not to get in your business but if there's somethin' wrong you should say. Learned that the hard way," a older women who was sitting across form him said.
"I'm okay thanks I just...maybe something I ate. I'll be okay. Thank you though," he said politely, hand still on his chest.
"The longer you wait to say somethin' the worse it'll be for you sweetheart. And I don't think you or your boyfriend would like that very much. You should press your little button and call for a nurse. Chest pain is not a good sign."
Shaun's ears unfortunately didn't fall deaf to that statement. "Stevie, you're experiencing chest pains? And you didn't tell me? Why? I'll go get your doctor right away-" Stevie grabbed his boyfriend's arm.
"Shaun, Shaun, it's okay. Stop freaking out. It's indigestion. I'll be fine. The nice lady was just trying to help, but it's not what she thinks it is."
Shaun shook his head. "You are stubborn Stevie, if anyone knows that it's me. Please let go of me so I can get someone to help you. Okay? Trust me baby, it'll be all right. I'm here, we'll get through whatever it is."
Stevie took a breath and agreed with Shaun. "O-Okay. I'll just...wait here while you get someone. Thanks."
He regretted showing signs of pain. He should have tried to fight it. Then the old lady wouldn't see it, wouldn't say anything, and ultimately wouldn't upset Shaun.
He tried not to glare at the women while waiting for the doctor to arrive. It wasn't her fault, he just wanted someone to blame.
"Hello Steven. Shaun tells me you have pains in your chest. Can you point to me where exactly? Is it around where your lump is?"
Stevie nodded and pointed to his chest where his small bump was located. His doctor put on rubber gloves and ran her hand under his shirt to examine his lump.
"I just need to lift up your shirt to see it, is that okay?" Stevie gave her approval and lifted his shirt for her.
She grazed over it a couple more times, and pressed on it with a bit of pressure. Stevie winced, but didn't make any noise.
"It shouldn't be painful. It doesn't look any different than it did the last time I saw you, so I wouldn't say anything negative. But I do think we should remove it. It's most likely putting pressure on tissue and causing you to feel pain. Describe the pain for me, does it burn, throb, feel heavy, or hurt to breathe?"
Stevie looked over to Shaun. "It feels heavy...and kinda burns too. But- I need surgery? I never had surgery before...I- I'm scared."
The doctor gave the teen a small smile. "It's normal to be scared, and I'm going to talk to your mom about it first, so you can relax for now. I'll go over everything with you when the time comes. Like I said, its indirectly related to your cancer so it's not top priority. But it is causing you pain so it does need to be removed. Maybe we can make the appointment for Friday afternoon so you won't miss school."
Stevie heard his monitor beep, and he had never been more thankful for his chemo to be over.
"Yeah um, I'll tell my mom to call your office when she gets home from work. Can you please take the needle out now, I have to use the bathroom."
She nodded and listened to Stevie, pulling the needle out slowly and carefully.
Shaun frowned. "Do you want me to come with you?"
Stevie held up his hand silently denying his boyfriend. Shaun knew he didn't have to use the bathroom. He only wanted to be away from everyone so he could deal with this new news. Shaun felt terrible, but he knew he did the right thing.
For some reason he thought of Micah, and maybe he could help him. He wasn't sure if he had texting...even though he didn't look old or anything. He gave him his cell number and not a home number, he could tell by the first three numbers, so he felt it was safe to text.
Hey Micah, it's Shaun. I hope you remember me. I wanted to thank you again for everything you've done for me but I have a favor to ask. Stevie needs surgery and he's scared and I don't know what to do. Maybe you've been through a similar thing and can help me? I'm sorry to bother you, you don't have to feel obligated to help me. Just get back to me when you can. Thank you. -Shaun
Shaun bit his lip as he waited for Stevie to return. He really hoped Micah would text him back soon. He wasn't sure how to comfort Stevie, and that's all he wanted to do.
When Stevie did not return after a few minutes, Shaun went into the bathroom to find him. He heard sniffles coming from a stall, and immediately he knew it was Stevie. He knocked on the plastic three times with his knuckle.
"Stevie, please don't cry. Everything is fine, you just need a small little itsy bitsy surgery. They're just gonna make you go to sleep for a little bit and before you know it you'll be awake and your chest pain will be all gone. Then you don't have to worry about it."
He heard Stevie unlock the door. Shaun hated to see his lover so upset, so down in the dumps. He wished it all away so many times. He prayed for him every night before he went to sleep for him to be cured so could be happy and healthy. Like he deserved to be.
"I know, Shaun. I'm just being a baby about it. But...I just can't help but feel like this is only the beginning. Like, this is the start of me dying; like really dying. When I wake up I don't feel like I'm gonna die. When I feel tired I don't feel like I'm gonna die. I don't even feel like I'm gonna die when I get chemo. But now, I need surgery. They need to cut me open to fix me. What if something goes wrong? What if they find something else that's wrong with me...what if I'm allergic to anesthesia and they can't do it unless I'm awake? I-"
Shaun held onto his boyfriend's face with both hands and looked him right in the eyes.
"Look at me Stevie, look here," he tried to smile. "...you aren't going to die. I know I shouldn't make a promise like this, but I'm going to. Because I believe in your strength as much as humanly possible. Steven Pavacic, I promise you will not die. Okay? You have cancer, and you're really sick, but you're getting treated for it...you got it looked at just in time. Nothing bad is going to happen to you because of this surgery, baby. These doctors are great and they're going to help you. Just believe in that, okay, please please believe in that."
Stevie buried his head in Shaun's shoulder and he hugged him. He didn't know what else to do. He felt a little bit better after Shaun's motivational words but he couldn't help but still feel scared. He would have to be brave, for his parents and for Shaun. And he had to be strong, as strong as Shaun thought he was, because that was what would get him through everything.
~
Jack had slept most of the day, after his brother had left. He didn't get a chance to read Micah's note about his breakfast in the microwave, and he didn't get a chance to do much of anything else. But it was okay. Because he only had dreams of Ian and Lily, and he envisioned such a happy place in his mind. He tried to age his sister 5 years, and he pictured her hair to be so long and beautiful. He remembered that she had the shiniest hair a little girl could have. He remembered that she liked to have it played with before she fell asleep. He missed her so much.
Micah was worried when he arrived home and Jack was still asleep. That never happened before, because Jack had his naps. He didn't wake Jack, he just figured he was extra tired. He had assumed that Jack had a busy day of running errands he wasn't supposed to or something along those lines. Jack was just too much sometimes, and Micah had never felt so blessed. He was always pushing himself.
He had carried Jack upstairs and lied him gently in their bed, took off his pants and replaced them with sweats. He then got himself ready for bed and proceeded to lie next to the love of his life.
Jack woke up at the same exact time as his lover, causing him to smile. That almost never happened. Micah was always up before him.
"Hey there good lookin'," he said in a sleepy voice. "...you're so freaking adorable when you just wake up. With your messy hair and half closed eyes. Gimme a kiss."
Micah sighed happily and placed a loving kiss to his cheek. "Good morning sleepy boy. You must have slept for a full 24 hours yesterday, when I got home you were out like a light. Did you go running around like I told you not to because I'd handle it? Hmm?"
Jack gave his boyfriend a crooked smile as he sat up. Micah did the same and Jack curled up next to him. "No. I slept for so long because my nap was interrupted but- before you say anything, I was so glad that it happened. It was the most welcomed interruption I could have been presented with." He started to tickle Micah's strong arms. "...My little brother came to visit. He hired someone to find me. And he did. My 15 year old brother took a taxi to come here and spend time with me."
Micah was astonished. "Wow, Jack that's fantastic! I'm so happy for you, sweetie. What did you guys do...what did you talk about? Did you tell him about me?"
Jack was surprised at how excited Micah was for him. He knew he loved him for a reason. "We just got connected, you know? He told me about my parents and my sister. I asked him questions, vice versa. Of course I told him about you, and how much I love you. I told him the whole story about why I 'left' and whatnot. He totally doesn't care that I'm gay, which was such a pleasant surprise. And the best part is that he's coming back today."
Micah squeezed his lover tight. "That's amazing! I'll call in so I'll be home. That is so great...I can't believe it. You really deserve this, Jack. So much. But...I just have one question."
Jack furrowed his eyebrows and looked up at Micah. "What?"
"I bet the 'reunion' was amazing and all, and you both were really happy and stuff but...how did he react when you told him that you had cancer? Or...let me guess. You didn't tell him?"
Jack sighed sadly. "I just couldn't, Micah. I couldn't rip his smile away from him. And I won't. I'm not going to tell him, at least, not tonight. So please stay mum about it? Don't make me beg."
Micah kissed Jack's forehead. "Of course I won't, but you've got to tell him sometime. I mean, I know he's young so he probably won't guess it himself. But he's not an idiot, he's going to realize something is wrong if you're napping every time he comes over. Just remember that," he kissed him again before reaching over to grab his cell phone. "...but on the bright side, yay, I get to re-meet him. So you get ready when you're up to it and I'll call in right now. I'll make us some breakfast and perhaps we can all go out for a bite later? How does that sound?"
Jack stretched his body with a smirk. "Sounds great. I'll get my butt moving now so I can help you with breakfast. I feel good today, so you don't have to worry about me, okay? Seeing Ian again...and actually getting to talk to him and hug him...after 5 years, God it felt so good. It made my spirit that much brighter. So, maybe this is the start of something really great, Micah. I have a really good feeling about this."
Micah really wanted that to be true. There wasn't anything more in the world he wanted more than to see Jack happy and cancer free. Maybe he was right, maybe Ian coming out of nowhere meant good things were in store for them. They could only hope.
"Hi Destiny, it's Micah- obviously from my accent ha, um I'm sorry but I can't come in today. Jack's fine, so no worries. It's good news. I'll fill you in some other time. Thank you, Des. See you tomorrow. Okay bye." Micah hung up with a smile. "So how does chocolate chip banana pancakes sound? Or pumpkin whole wheat pancakes. Or apple cinnamon waffles? Your pick."
Jack slid out of their bed and walked around towards the bathroom. "Wow, extravagant choices you got there. Hmm. How about the pumpkin whole wheat ones because I haven't tried that kind yet. I'm going to jump in the shower real quick then I'll come help you. Unless...you'd like to join me?"
Micah did not have to be asked twice. He followed his lover into the bathroom, and undressed him as well as himself. He was glad that Jack was so happy all of a sudden. It was almost as if he wasn't even sick. He was in such a good mood, and he couldn't have been happier for him.
After their shower that lasted 45 minutes, they emerged, ready to start their day. They got dressed, made pancakes, relaxed for a bit and watched a movie. They never had a more clam day. Jack fell asleep for about a half hour, but he woke up just before his brother arrived. He was thankful for that, because Micah was right, Ian would start to catch on if Jack was sleeping all the time.
"Hi Ian, I'm not sure how well you remember me. But it's very nice to see you again. You've grew some inches." Micah said with a laugh to his voice.
Ian gave a cheeky grin and shook the older mans hand. "I remember you and your wicked cool accent. Could you make my day and say 'riper' please, they always have it in those Australian lingo books and whatnot."
Micah laughed again. "Riper," he said, of course it sounded more like 'reepah.'
"Oh I love it. Jack, don't you make him say things like that like, all day?"
Jack shook his head. "At first, but not now. It's normal I mean...he's from Australia. He speaks with an accent, and yes, it is awesome. You can make him say whatever you want, but why don't you make yourself comfortable and come sit down. We still have so much to talk about."
Ian followed the pair into their living room where they all had a seat on the couch.
"I won't make him say anything else, I bet that gets annoying, haha. But Jack I actually have something for you. Since...I can't bring Lily in person I have a recent picture of her. You can keep it, I have another at the house so mom won't know it's gone. Here."
Jack gasped at how beautiful his little sister is turning out to be. He never remembered her eyes so blue. "Wow she's is so pretty. You better watch out for her in a few years when boys start to like her. Seriously. Wow. I can't get over how grown up she looks. The last time I saw her...she was 5, holy crap."
Ian giggled. "Yeah our sister is really cute. We all kinda look the same though, don't you think? We're just a good looking family. Not to brag. You just need to let your hair grow back. Why'd you shave it anyway? I mean, you can't be losing your hair at this age, dad didn't even start yet."
Micah and Jack held back their frowns. "Actually it's a funny story. I made a dumb mistake by letting my girl friend...Destiny cut my hair and she really messed it up so I got my hair-cutter to just buzz it all off. Should be back to normal in a few weeks. No big deal."
Micah coughed.
"Well you can borrow some of my beanies if you want, you know, until it all grows in nice. Oh and before I forget, I wanted to ask you if you wanted to come paint-balling with me and a couple friends this weekend, just as a guys night out thing. Totally understand if it's not your thing but I just thought I'd ask. Micah, you're welcome to come too."
Jack felt his heart race...how to explain this one, he didn't know. "We'd love to but we can't...we work...a lot. But thanks for thinking of us, really. I have an idea, how about we go see that movie, the scary one. Paranormal Activity 2. You know, when we have time. Doesn't that sound nice?"
Saved by Micah.
"Sure. Yeah, I wasn't really expecting you to come- not because you're gay, I really didn't mean it like that. You guys are probably really good at paint ball. Just like anyone else would be. But um yeah, I'm going to stop talking now because I just sound dumb."
Jack chuckled. "You don't sound dumb. It's okay. Really. We've never paint-balled in our lives so yeah. You go and have fun."
Micah took out his phone to see that he had a text from an unknown number.
Hey Micah, it's Shaun. I hope you remember me. I wanted to thank you again for everything you've done for me but I have a favor to ask. Stevie needs surgery and he's scared and I don't know what to do. Maybe you've been through a similar thing and can help me? I'm sorry to bother you, you don't have to feel obligated to help me. Just get back to be when you can. Thank you. -Shaun
Micah bit his lip and made a mental note in his head to respond to Shaun later. Poor, poor Shaun.
Jack smiled for the millionth time. "God, this is so great. I love the three of us here, together, talking...isn't it amazing?"
And they nodded. Everything seemed so perfect.