Episode 3 ^3/4: There’s something in a name.

They were the only two at the theatre. Strange to see it so quiet, but this was definitely how Sam preferred it. Ty, watching far too closely, was being ignored because there was work that needed to be done. One flinch from Sam, and all work would come to an end. Knowing this, he was keeping every pained inhale to himself.

Ty shifted positions on the floor so that he could lean his back against the wall. In his hands was a new cell that he was busy programming. In a futile attempt, Sam dropped a look Ty’s way. With a smile, Ty was effectively ignoring the silent reprimand. Giving up, Sam moved his attention back to his work. He picked up a can of spray paint. As he lifted it up to shake it, pain was a reminder. The can was set back down softly so as to not alert Ty that he was hurting.

“You’re an idiot.” Even to himself, it wasn’t clear who Sam was referring to. There had been no anger in his tone. Only a sort of resignation to the way things now were.

Ty glanced over, “if Todd hadn’t come across you, what would you have done?”

Sam stared at his work, his attention far from it.

Ty continued, “the cell is under my name. Carry it so that I’ll feel a little better.”

Absentmindedly chewing his thumbnail, he questioned, “you gonna let me out alone?”

“No,” Ty was grinning again, “but I know you will anyway. Check in and let me know where you are when you do.”

He closed his eyes to try and temper his annoyance, “do not be an overprotective boyfriend.”

The cell moved to Ty’s lap and he was looking over.

The pleasure rolling off Ty made Sam cringe, “I’m not saying you’re my…just shut-up.”

“You’re so fucking hot,” Ty teased.

“That’s you,” Sam wouldn’t look at him. He held the can out to Ty with an order, “shake this up.”

“You hurting?”

“I will be if I try to shake that. So be a good boy and do your job,” he jutted his chin at the can.

Ty had a playful look, “my job as your boyfriend?”

“Ty, Sam,” their names were called out by Jaz, saving him from having to respond.

Jaz wasn’t alone. Everyone was with her creating a group. He watched their interaction as they moved up onto the stage. Court jumped up, just like Ty would have. He offered his hand to Crys, who seemed pleased to try and follow with his help. Geo walked Jaz up the stairs. Ang and Tanner were close behind, in a discussion about the production. Todd was struggling to get up on the stage like his idol had. A hint of something sparkled in Todd’s eyes as he watched Court walk away without offering help. Then Todd noticed him watching. A bright smile came with an eager wave.

From within the cell he was programming, Ty looked smug, “I come first.”

Not taking the bait, he opted for cool indifference mingled with a surprising observation, “you didn’t last night.”

“What?” Court’s head whipped around!

“Come on, no one wants to hear that,” Geo whined.

“Jaz does,” Court pointed his thumb her direction.

He wasn’t wrong. Jaz was delicately chewing her bottom lip.

Ang supported her, “I do too!”

There was a giggle from Crys.

“Is this a girl thing?” Geo’s mutter earned him a slap on the shoulder from Jaz.

Crys shrugged, “I dunno. I just think it’s adorable how they play off each other.”

“Which is uncomfortable for me,” Geo remarked bitterly. “I thought these two were supposed to kill each other.”

The only response was a merciless grin from Sam and Jaz.

“Your boyfriend is an ass,” Geo pointed out.

The others began cleaning up.

“I don’t date,” Sam pointed out without inflection.

“Then your piece of ass is an ass,” Geo made the correction.

It didn’t offend Sam, and Ty only seemed amused.

“Why are you cleaning up my stuff?” Sam muttered from the safety of his art. “I’m working.”

Ty’s laughter had his grudging attention. Ty let him know, “they brought breakfast. You’re stopping to have some before I take you to class.”

“I am not your property!”

Ty interrupted with a quick quip, “you’re my piece of ass.”

It stopped Sam from being mad. Though he was mad that he wasn’t mad, and that he wanted to smile. Seeing that he’d won, yet again, Ty took the paint can from his hand. It was tossed carelessly back in with the others. Court picked up the box, which he handed to Todd with directions to put it away.

With a sigh, Sam put his arms around Ty’s shoulders. He was sitting on the floor and would need help getting to his feet. He glared off to the side, his lips pursing. Ty lightly kissed his pouting lips, then whispered, “your lips are begging me again.”

Maintaining his pout, his gaze slid to Ty. Seeing the sparkle in those eyes made it very hard not to smile. Ty kissed him again.

The morning sun couldn’t be blocked by the few wisps of clouds in the sky today. It created a beautiful backdrop for their breakfast. He found himself staring as they walked into a painting his mind saw. A glare from Ty was enough to have Todd rethinking the seat he was about to take at a nearby table, allowing Ty to claim the spot for the two of them. Court, Geo, and Ang pulled over a second table so that they could all sit together, and seats were claimed. Todd stood uncertainly off to the side until the table was set down. His second attempt to claim a seat was thwarted by Court so that Crys could take the seat next to him. A rough tousle of Todd’s hair was Court’s unapologetic apology. With everyone seated, the food was handed out.

Jaz accepted hers with a smile. She looked at Ang, “we’ve got an afternoon off coming up, and I think we need to go shopping.”

“We’re absolutely doing that,” she didn’t even need to think that over. “Crysie?”

“Crysie?” Court’s nose was wrinkled.

Crys adjusted the light sweater around her shoulders to fit comfortably. Court took his opportunity by smoothing her hair. She smiled shyly at him, “Angie does that to bug me.”

“Sisters,” Ang shrugged with a light laugh. “You’re coming though, right?”

“Oh yah, I want to look for some interview clothes.”

“There’s more to life than being a reporter,” Ang chided.

Tanner, who was answering more texts, glanced up long enough to say, “but she’s focused, and you should encourage that.”

“Not really good advice coming from you.” Ty claimed the sketchbook Sam had been trying to sneak out of his bag. For his actions, he got an annoyed glare.

“I just realized Tanner,” Crys took the breakfast sandwich handed to her, “you don’t have a shortened version of your name. Mine’s short for Crystal. Ang is Angela. You also have a full name, right Jaz?”

She nodded, “sure do.”

“What about everyone else?”

“Mm,” Court quickly swallowed some of his drink. “Geo is actually short for George.”

“Really?” She was lit up with curiosity.

He let her in on something, “when we were kids and learning to spell our names, I was confused why the E is silent in his name. GE-Orge is hard to say and sounds awful. I just started calling him Geo. He liked it way better than his name. Even mom calls him Geo.”

“That’s adorable,” her bright smile shone! “So, what about you?”

“I have a true nickname,” he was proud of this.

Geo answered for him, “his name is Gabriel.”

“Really?” She sounded pleased!

Sam glanced discretely. Court was proud. Completely unashamed of the name, and yet not offering an explanation as to why he’d changed it. He could appreciate that, so he went back to his sandwich. Ty was opening a bottle of water for him.

“I can’t even remember when I got my nickname,” Court said just before biting into his burrito.

It was Todd that offered an eager explanation, “it was in junior high, but before you met me. It happened because you were always on the court.”

“He got the nickname cuz he was always cutting class, and the teachers would always find him playing basketball.”

“Good thing I hadn’t discovered rugby yet or they’d have started calling me Field,” Court laughed around his breakfast.

There was a firm look of disgust on Geo’s face as he watched Sam and Court bolt down their meals. With a sneer in his tone, Geo questioned, “do you have no manners?”

Knowing that he was being addressed, Sam looked over. The simple truth was that the sooner he ate, the sooner Ty would give him back his art. Then he cast his gaze sidelong at Geo’s brother who had been exhibiting the same behaviors.

Court had mistakenly thought the comment had been directed at him. Without looking up from his food, he muttered with a full mouth, “don’t like it, don’t watch it.”

Sam grinned his silent taunt, and then he went back to eating.

“So, what about you Sam?” Jaz fluffed her rice with the fork lightly held within her fingers.

For her boldness, she received a mysteriously amused grin. But like any other time, Sam wasn’t about to share.

“Really,” Ty shared that grin because he knew Sam wouldn’t say.

“What’s Ty short for?” Sam glanced at him.

“It’s just Ty,” there was a ringtone coming from his back pocket.

“Ler?” Sam tacked on. The questioning look held the hint of amusement.

“Just Ty.”

“Son,” another attempt. Amusement was growing around the table.

“Keep pushing,” amusement was matched. He looked down at his cell.

“Tus,” the claim was made with certainty.

“Tytus? Are you kidding me? Have you ever known a Tytus?”

Sam shrugged, “do now.”

Amused by the exchange, Ty’s smile remained when he picked up the call and stepped away, “hey, what’s up?”

Because there was an opportunity, Sam reached for his sketchbook. Though he’d been stepping away while on the call, Ty’s hand landed over his just as he touched the book. A sidelong glance told him that he wasn’t allowed to touch art right now. He glared, hoping to portray that he wasn’t a child that Ty could control. Amusement sparkled at him as Ty licked his thumb to wipe away the sauce at the corner of Sam’s mouth. Annoyed, he pulled his face away. The others were laughing.

Since he couldn’t retreat to his art, he might as well ask, “Court, Pey said you two were meeting this morning. What happened?”

“I didn’t know that,” confusion washed over Court. He was checking his phone now. With a shake of his head, “he didn’t text.”

“Hmm,” he made a noise that didn’t really say too much.

“Are you worried?” Geo asked him.

The others were pausing to wait for his answer. He shook his head, “Pey does this when he’s doing something he doesn’t want me to know about.”

Geo put it simply, “he lies to you?”

And to that he grinned with a chuckle, “whatever he’s doing, it’s his business. He doesn’t need to tell me. If he needs help, he’ll ask.”

“What if he’s doing something illegal that he feels he can’t tell you about?” Ang was the one to think of this question.

Though she may not take her question seriously, he chuckled because that was what made it funny to him. And again, he wouldn’t explain.

“Maybe he feels he can’t tell you because you don’t show that you care,” Geo set his food down.

Sam glanced from the tops of his eyes, “our relationship is just fine, counselor.”

Being on his phone and talking hadn’t stopped Ty from hearing that comment. Hand upon Sam’s chin pulled their gazes together.

“He’s a friend,” Sam began to justify. Then he mocked with a snarl, “just how insecure are you?”

Busy on their phones, Crys, Todd, Court, and Tanner looked up.

Laughing at them, Court lifted his phone, “told him we’re here.”

“So, what do you think he’s up to?” Jaz asked just before taking a bite.

Brushing Ty’s hand away, he looked over at her, “I wouldn’t tell you anymore than I’d tell you what I’m doing.”

Before Ty’s hand could reclaim his chin, Sam held up a hand to stop him.

Court was reading a message, “Pey says he’s practicing.”

“Why wouldn’t he tell you that?” Tanner was looking his direction.

“Same reason I wouldn’t tell him I’m working at the library after class today if I hadn’t wanted to be sure he wouldn’t bring a hookup back. We have boundaries,” he replied flatly. Ty was off the phone and reclaiming the seat next to him.

Ty’s narrowed eyes spoke the questions his lips weren’t.

With an arched brow, “I’ve been a good boy. Now give me what I want.”

Enticed, Ty gestured to his own cheek with a tap of a finger. The other hand held Sam’s sketchbook in ransom.

Certain in his actions, Sam set a hand upon Ty’s chin and brought their lips together. Surprise lit Ty’s handsome eyes. Slow was the possession of Ty’s bottom lip between his. His hand dropped and took advantage of the distraction to claim his book.

Prize in hand, Sam ended the kiss. He didn’t mind Ty’s hand under his shirt, he just didn’t remember it moving there. Opening the book, he let Ty know, “there’s nothing I won’t do for my art.”

“So worth it,” Ty pulled him closer.

The girls were making keening noises that he would ignore. He had his priorities and reasons.

“That’s cuz your bar is too low,” Sam was happy within his art. He told himself that was why he was smiling.

“You’re not wrong,” Geo was baiting him.

“At least he’s not setting his sights on something he can’t have,” he spared a pointed look Geo’s direction.

Geo’s eyes narrowed suspiciously.

“Oh, shots fired and I so want to know,” Ang leaned forward with interest.

Todd’s loose fists were held tentatively before his chest, “you shouldn’t talk like that Sam. Court says family is a line others can’t cross.”

In his ear, Ty whispered, “you just admitted I can have you!”

His expression fell as he stared blankly at the page, “shit.”

There was a pleased chuckle in his ear.

Todd was explaining to Crys and Ang like they didn’t already know, “one time, I saw Court punch this really big guy out because he talked bad about Court’s family. That’s when I knew how important family was to him.”

“Sam’s family too, right? Just like me,” Crys’ remark was innocent and bright.

It brought embittered eyes up from his work.

Todd interrupted before he could speak up, “Sam is?”

“That’s what being in means with us,” Geo rolled his eyes. “That’s why he can say the things he does and gets away with it. Anyone but family would have their ass kicked.”

“And anyone kicking our family’s ass, gets their ass kicked,” Court was hedging their conversation into dangerous territory. “We always protect our family.”

Fear narrowed his vision till all he could see was the past.

Crys was teasing, “so why don’t you get away with anything?”

Laughter was at Court’s expense.

“I thought you were on my side,” he pretended to be wounded.

Ty’s fingers rubbed softly along his neck. Aware that Ty was aware, he pushed the hand away. Darkly, he muttered, “isn’t it time for class?”

“Hey,” the softness of Ty’s voice brought fear that began to steal his breath.

Without meaning to, Tanner saved him, “Sam’s right.”

“Fine,” that was accompanied by a heavy sigh from Court.

Everyone was getting up. Bags were put onto shoulders as phones were put away.

When Ty reached for him, Sam pulled his hand away. There was a sharp edge to the tone, “I’ll go with Court.”

Silence met those words. And not just from Ty, but from everyone. Pings came from phones in Tanner, Jaz, and Court’s hands. It could be coincidence, but life wasn’t like that very often. Dread was a familiar cold lump within his gut as phones came back out. Jaz and Tanner were first. Geo moved in next to Jaz when a light touch put fingers to lips. The audio was turned up allowing the sounds of heavy rainfall and caustic insults to give warning. Sam’s hands balled into fists as his arms crossed over his stomach. Ty took Tanner’s phone. Court and Crys were now watching together. The same sounds came from Court’s phone.

On the screen of Tanner’s phone, Sam could see the three men standing over him as he lay in the gutter. Rain came down hard, but not as hard as the guys did. Kicks overwhelmed the prone body that was losing the ability to protect himself. Sam could feel the pain in his face now as he watched his head being stepped on, generating the cut that marred his cheekbone.

“Enough man… you’re going to kill him.”

“Like anyone would care.”

He looked away, unable to watch the shaky video. But he wasn’t stopping the others. He probably couldn’t anyhow. Ty’s hand moved up his back to rest protectively upon his neck, “still going to pretend that you don’t know who attacked you?”

The video was clear enough that he could probably file charges if he were so inclined. He forced himself to make eye contact. His mind somehow worked, “he wants to provoke you.”

“Who posted this?” Court stopped the video on his phone so that he could find out.

“Looks like a bunch of people are tagged to it,” Tanner was looking over Geo’s shoulder. “Kurt is one of the tags.”

“What the hell is someone thinking posting this?” The fear Jaz had was powerful. The tears in her eyes scared him.

A timid voice asked, “isn’t it a good thing? Kurt could go to jail because of this. Right? Someone’s doing the right thing.”

“His dad will just cover it up,” Court impatiently waved off Todd’s question.

“Not if everyone sees it, right? I mean, it’ll probably go viral.”

Sam felt sick!

Geo rubbed a hand over the back of his neck, “this is gonna piss Kurt off. If he thinks Sam did it, he’ll do something stupid.”

“He already did that,” Ty was angry! “I’ll deal with Kurt.”

“Don’t,” he couldn’t stop the reaction.

The hand on Sam’s neck pulled them closer, “I want to know who took the video and why the hell they didn’t think calling for help was more important.”

“Maybe they’re afraid,” Todd’s theory trailed off.

“Looks like a dummy account,” Court was investigating. “Created just to post this video.”

“Why?” Sam had been asking the universe, not them. He felt Ty’s fingers at the back of his head. He took Tanner’s phone to text someone.

“Maybe someone’s trying to help you,” Todd offered a possible reason.

“Help would be calling 911 in the moment, not posting this video days later,” Court curtly dismissed Todd’s reasoning.

A response came through, ‘how’d you know I can trace a fake account?’

‘Just do it! And get the video down now.’

‘Sam! How’s your boyfriend?’

Sam’s right fist curled to the best of his ability. The sprain cried out bringing out a grimace. Seeing the moment happen, Ty took the phone out of his hand. His question didn’t need to be spoken for Sam to convey it. The look was returned as Ty sent a reply. Sulking, he made no move to take the phone back. He didn’t care what Ty was saying to Pey. It was just inane anyway. Satisfied with whatever he’d written, Ty then passed the phone back to Tanner who perused the messages with a subtle grin.

Tanner looked at him, “will Peyton really be able to take down the video?”

“That can happen?” Todd seemed surprised.

With a nod he confirmed, “he can.”

“Let’s focus on the bigger issue of killing Kurt,” Ty’s hand was back in Sam’s hair.

Brushing the touch away, he glared with a warning, “don’t bother. That was about you, so blame yourself.”

“Really?” For some reason Ty wasn’t bothered by the accusation.

Probably because it wasn’t an entirely truthful one. With a sour expression he allowed Ty’s fingers back in his hair, “I may have pissed him off a little.”

Ty smiled.

“But doesn’t mean it’s not about you too. Just let it go because it doesn’t matter,” he was almost begging.

Ty’s hand moved to his far cheek to gently force eye contact, “family matters to me.”

“To all of us,” Court let him know.

“Stop saying that,” he muttered angrily.

Geo was cutting him off, “I’m not willing to let Kurt get away with this.”

He pulled his arms tight to this abdomen. They needed to stop. They all had to stop! “Damage is already done.”

He hadn’t been aware that he was talking out loud. The comment was for himself; a reminder that all good things come to an end. Some just more quickly than others. Silent worry shone within.

Ty’s fingers ran through the hair at Sam’s ear, “you’re not running.”

Sullenly he challenged, “wait for the ankle to heal.”

There was arrogance in the charming grin, “like you’re waiting for that. But don’t forget your promise to me.”

“Huh, what promise?” Court glanced up from his cell.

Sam’s fingers massaged his temples as he muttered, “you make this so incredibly difficult.”

Ty breathed into his ear, “I make something hard, that’s for sure.”

Sam’s elbow moved in reaction.

Unaware of the whispered comment, Geo was moving on, “we need to do something because if it wasn’t Kurt posting this, he’s going to assume it’s Sam.”

“But I’m right,” Court pointed out, “we can’t go to the cops. His dad will just make any charges go away.”

“I’ll beat the shit outta him again,” Ty made the offer with a light shrug.

“I don’t want more violence.” He chose to hide behind a petulant growl, “I don’t need protecting.”

Though it caused him pain, he began to walk away. Ty’s hand had his wrist. He looked down at the hand now covering his left wrist. Ty couldn’t know just how poignant this image was in this moment. And he wouldn’t know.

He pulled his hand away forcefully, claiming back the solitude he was familiar with and leaving behind what he couldn’t handle.

“Sam,” Ty called out as he began to limp away.

“Sam,” other voices called out to him.

He turned his head back, but wouldn’t look at any of them, “If Kurt’s problem is me being around you, then the easy solution is to not be.”

He walked away. This wasn’t new to him. He’d walked away from family before. So why did it hurt this time? And why did he wish that Ty would come after him? Telling himself that the tears were because of the physical pain, he kept on walking.

~~~

The pain shooting through his wrist up to his elbow was beginning to cause pain to lance through at his temple. It would stop him soon from writing anything more. With exams coming up and assignments due, he didn’t really have a choice. Besides, every time he stopped thinking, he started remembering.

He shifted positions in the chair hoping to alleviate some of the piercing pain. His foot came down off the other chair to relieve the pain in his ribs. But doing so caused him more pain in his ankle. He ran a hand through his hair. Maybe a little break was needed before he had an emotional meltdown over what was just pain. In the solitude of an empty library, Sam brought up the video. He hesitated, but his finger did hit play.

Seeing himself get beat up was an experience he could have done without. Going through the motions and bearing through the pain was very different from seeing it happen. Perhaps there was something that he could learn from watching himself. But for now, it was too much to think about that.

“It’s been reposted already?” Ty pulled a chair up next to him. Strong arms moved him so that he was no longer using the back of the chair, and he was pulled to Ty’s chest. The argument died before it could emerge as the coolness of an icepack gently permeated through his thin shirt.

A sigh escaped, “that’s cheating.”

He felt Ty’s chest move with the quiet laughter, “why are you watching this?”

A light tap of his finger paused the video. He found that he couldn’t say anything.

Ty’s breath moved his hair, “tell me what’s going on in here.”

He would say nothing.

Ty persisted, “tell me how to keep you here with me.”

He hated those words! Hated more that he loved them. He tried to push Ty’s arms away, “I already told you I would walk if I couldn’t be safe.”

Ty’s arms were heavy around him, “I’m never letting my family be hurt again.”

“Stop,” he tried to sit upright, but he was struggling both from the pain and because Ty wasn’t letting him go. “You already failed. And I’m not staying around.”

Ty touched a finger to his cheek. The others were curled beneath his chin. The thumb landed softly upon his lips. Silence filled the library, and it was almost like the dark. Slowly, he began to breathe again. Ty held his gaze, not breaking the silence.

He stopped pushing Ty’s arms. Gently, he had Ty’s hand and took it away from his face. There was a break in his voice when he said, “family isn’t something good. I don’t know what I’m supposed to do when you all talk like that.”

Silent tears touched the corners of his eyes.

Ty shifted to hold him closer, the ice pack shifted to bring a chill to a different inflamed muscle. Cheek upon Sam’s head, Ty let him know, “family’s about having each other’s backs, but you gotta be annoying about it.”

It got a breathless laugh from Sam, “like Geo and Court? They talk about hurting each other.”

Ty completed the thought, “but they never do. Brother’s pick at each other. It’s what they’re supposed to do. You saw me with Don that day in the park.”

Though it hadn’t been a question, Sam nodded.

“No one makes my little brother cry! But I’ll be the first to make him uncomfortable because I know better than anyone what does.”

Questions wanted to surface, but he wouldn’t let them. “He looks up to you.”

“It’s not so hard being family,” Ty reassured him. “And we make our own rules for how that’s supposed to look.”

“What about when I fuck up? You gonna feel the same then?” Sam choked on the question.

“I’ll be excited then,” Ty held on, “because I get to make up your punishments.”

He closed his eyes and let the smile move through him. He relented with a sniffle, “fine.”

“So, you won’t leave me?” Ty softly asked him.

“Why do you want me?” When no one else does.

“Because every time I see you, you’re showing kindness to someone.”

He glanced to the side, towards Ty, in question. Everyone only ever saw the cold shoulder he was giving them.

Ty’s words were a whisper, “I see you.”

His silent nod was the only answer he’d give, “I was fine being alone.”

“Just like I’m fine being alone?” It was a challenge. One he could hear over his own fears.

With Ty holding him, he looked at the phone. It was slow in coming, but he opened up to Ty, “there’s something about this that’s bothering me.”

He felt Ty’s pointed look.

“I don’t know yet what it is,” a soft sigh came out. He addressed a bigger concern, “it’s a new account. Pey’s working on it.”

“Why keep posting it? Are they trying to hurt you or Kurt?”

“The video only ever starts after I’m on the ground.” He leaned his head on Ty’s chest, “if they were a part of this, they would have been there from the start. And wouldn’t they be more careful about who they got on video?”

The crash of idiots doing idiotic things came from the hallway. It was muted thanks to the heavy doors that were closed, though that only helped to minimize Sam’s reaction. Around the pounding of his heart, he closed his eyes until the worst moments passed. It was only as he was breathing once again that he realized Ty was holding his hand. The other hand continued to hold the icepack to his ribs.

Something important surfaced, drawing his eyes to the phone, “he knew?”

“What?” Ty moved the icepack so that it now brought relief to Sam’s right wrist. The involuntary reaction of clenching it had caused pain.

He turned his head, but didn’t make eye contact, “Kurt knew to hit the bat against the brick before I knew he was there. He’d heard that loud noises bother me.”

Ty’s arms held him a little tighter.

“How did he know that?” He wasn’t asking Ty directly, but he’d take any answer he could get.

“The day at the theatre when Todd dropped shit. Other people might have seen your reaction. I was focused on you grabbing my body, so I’m not sure.”

He spared a look. The hesitation to confess to Ty only lasted a moment, “I don’t really see anything when that happens. It’s hard to process.”

Ty kissed the side of his head.

“People like Kurt don’t need a reason, but I can’t understand why he came at me like that. That’s why I didn’t want to tell you,” he held Ty’s wrist.

“You’re going to protect me by not telling me it was him,” it was an accusation.

Sam rolled his eyes, “it’s a new experience for me too. Get over it.”

Ty didn’t even try to hide his jealousy, “new? Do you even know how protective you are of others, especially your friend?”

He kind of liked hearing that jealousy. “I’m protective because I let him into my life. But you did this to yourself.”

Ty was pleased, “I really am a new experience for you.”

“You’re an experience, all right,” he admitted. He closed the books knowing that he wasn’t getting any more work done tonight. “Kurt wants you to know that he did this, but I don’t think he’d want a video released that could lead to charges.”

“He’s arrogant, and his dad does have power that he’s used many times before,” Ty warned. “I want you to avoid him from now on. So long as he knows you’re important to me, he’ll come at me through you.”

“He made his point already,” he tried to reason.

“Which was?” Ty challenged.

His mouth opened, but then closed. And then opened again, “that he doesn’t want me to get between him and his boyfriend.”

“Oh, I’m so gonna make you pay for that,” Ty warned lightly.

He struggled to subdue a grin as he looked away. It was hard to resist asking, “what is it you two have against each other?”

Ty’s eyes had gone hard, “why is he bringing you into it?”

“Because you kissed me in front of an audience,” Sam could actually laugh at that.

It got Ty’s attention, “your lips were begging for it.”

Rather than engage, Sam evaded by bringing them back to topic, “can you not escalate this with Kurt?”

“Definitely not,” Ty placed his chin upon Sam’s shoulder.

It pained him to hear the plea within his voice. He shut his eyes to it, “I’m not good with violence.”

Ty’s hand upon his opened his eyes. They both looked down at the screen. “Peyton said that you can’t fight. With Kurt, you didn’t even try. Yet you took down that guy at the bar with just one punch.”

“Stop,” the word slipped out on a pained whisper. He didn’t want Ty to ask him why. “I don’t want to tell you, so please don’t ask me.”

Ty’s arms held him as he reassured, “I’m not asking. You can tell me when you’re ready. Let me take you home.”

Sam cast a masked look, “stop talking like it’s our home. I’m going back to the dorms.”

Ty’s brows lifted minutely in question as warm hands pulled at the hem of his shirt. Allowed access, those hot hands slid over warmed skin until the cool of the fading icepack touched skin. A tantalizing kiss landed upon the base of Sam’s neck, “there’s real icepacks at home!”

Unphased, Sam mocked, “nice try, but it’s not working.”

“I’m asking nicely,” Ty’s breath brushed over the skin of his neck.

“Ask all you want, I’m not going.”

“You will when I stop asking nicely,” Ty gave a soft warning.

Sam’s silent question was fueled by fear. Ty’s warm and sparkling eyes held a serious note to them. The words that weren’t being spoken were clear. It wasn’t violence Ty would use to achieve his goals. And Sam would lose.

Soft was the nod that gave consent. Happy because he’d won, Ty picked up Sam’s bag. The books went back inside it. When he struggled to stand, he allowed Ty to coax his arms around his neck. It hadn’t occurred to him that he’d be swept into Ty’s arms. The pain stole his breath as well as his ability to scowl.

“You’re staying home tomorrow,” this was Ty’s order to him.

Because he didn’t follow anyone’s orders any longer, he opened his mouth to argue. The look Ty slowly cast stopped him. “Whatever.”

~~~

Abducted and unwillingly dragged from the comfort of his art, Sam was glowering as he stood in a clothing store. Jaz and Ang were selecting shirts for him.

Jaz held a shirt up to Sam’s chest. She and Ang critiqued the color when held up to him. His left hand rose. Already defeated he asked, “does it matter?”

Astounded looks hit him, and Jaz sternly pointed out, “you’re an art major. I don’t have to spell this out to you.”

Ang was pressing forward, “we can always get him both.”

“We will if they both work well. His eyes pop in this color, but Ty’s favorite colour is green. But the green isn’t as nice a style as this one.”

‘That explains my clothes he brought. They’re almost all green.’ He thought. Outwardly, he was scowling.

“I know,” Jaz was pulling out her phone. “We’ll let Ty decide! Sam, go get changed. We’ll take pictures.”

“Good idea,” Ang approved.

“It’s not going to happen,” fear would always be hidden behind anger.

Still, the note within his voice was heard, and she lowered the phone, “Ty said that you were okay with photos as long as they’re only for him.”

“You agreed to photos for him?” Ang was alight with curiosity.

Sam groaned, “you all suck at secrets.”

“Ok sweetie,” Jaz assured, “no pics. I promise.”

“Then why are you holding up your phone?”

“Video call, of course,” she laughed.

Sam was held firmly at either side as the phone rang. After a few rings, Ty picked up. Quickly assessing the image on his phone, Ty smiled, “need a rescue yet?”

“I do not need you to rescue me,” he snarled!

“Looks like you do,” Ty teased.

Sam’s grimace deepened. Jaz waved away the comment, “we have a serious question for you Ty.”

“Here,” Ang moved to take the phone so that she could film the two of them.

Jaz now held both shirts. Switching them out over Sam’s chest, she looked at the phone, “which do you like better?”

Ty made a noise of consideration. Sam was full-on pouting as Ty’s voice reached out, “take them both away for a moment.”

“Ok,” Jaz humored him.

“Now take off the shirt he’s wearing,” was the instruction.

“Ty,” Jaz scolded!

Sam’s pout shifted to a pursed grin.

“If you’re not taking this seriously, I’m hanging up on you,” Jaz lectured.

“Have fun,” was Ty’s parting words before the screen went dark.

Jaz made a frustrated noise.

Ang handed the phone back, “he’s extra playful lately, isn’t he?”

“Yes,” it was now her turn to pout. She was glaring his direction like it was somehow his fault.

Sam had to suck in his bottom lip to keep the smile from growing. He was going to try and not take that comment to heart. Focusing on his own attitude, Sam brought back a glower, “my foot’s killing me. I’m going to find your sister. We’ll meet you at the food court.”

“Fine, I know your size anyway,” Jaz was not pleased, but his foot was a legitimate excuse that she couldn’t argue.

The limp he had walking away wasn’t being faked. Walking around was hard. Guess it was going to be a lot longer than he wanted before he’d be able to hit the gym again. He heard the ping of his phone. His phone; that was still something weird to him. All these years he’d never had one even when everyone around him did. Didn’t seem likely that he’d ever be comfortable with having it. But it didn’t mean that he didn’t know how to use one.

He saw that Ty had sent a text to continue teasing him. Sam’s fingers ran through his hair. And then he did something he hadn’t ever thought that he would. He took a selfie. He was giving Ty the finger, but his face was clearly visible. A little heart soon appeared next to the image. Chewing on his thumb, Sam tried to stifle his smile. The phone was back in his pocket as he looked around for Crys.

Girls could be more vicious than any guy, which made his decision an easy one. Crys stood with her head down. And though he couldn’t see them, he was certain there were tears in her eyes. Walking up behind her, he leaned on the railing which was at Crys’ right side. He was close enough to touch, though he didn’t. Close enough to ensure there was no mistaking his claim to the girl standing obliviously before him. The girls standing in opposition of Crys paused as they became aware of his presence. Being from the same university as them, they knew very well who he was. He glared.

Slowly, Crys became aware of his presence too. She turned to look. He moved to offer his hand to her. She paused, glancing at the girls. Seeing their fear Crys began to understand. Nervous was the watery smile she turned to him. She set her hand within his, and he led her away.

She leaned close to whisper, “you didn’t even say a word to them.”

He continued to hold her hand, “I doubt you’ll hear anything more from them to your face. But they won’t stop behind your back.”

“That’s okay,” she ran a shaky hand beneath her eyes to dry them. “They’ll soon learn never to piss off a gossip columnist.”

“Vicious,” he was impressed.

She giggled around a sniffle.

“Wonder who I pissed off then,” he knew his remark was hard to read, but it was intended to be.

She was looking up at him with a surprising offer, “want me to find out?”

“Don’t bother,” he shook his head. “I don’t care.”

“If I look anyway, will it upset you?”

He thought about that as they found a table to sit at, “I’ll be fine.”

Her gaze shifted as she thought about the possible meanings behind his statement. Then her bright smile emerged, “I’ll find out who posted that video three times.”

“There was a third?”

“Someone doesn’t want to let it go,” she nodded. “What did Peyton find out?”

He humored her because there was still something that was bothering him about that video. “He hasn’t told me anything, so I’m assuming nothing.”

“Well, there’s more than one way to investigate,” she seemed certain.

He’d rather not find out what the other ways were.

“So, tell me,” she set her chin upon her folded hands, “what’s the dish on Peyton?”

“Peyton?” He was surprised, which is why his attention turned fully to her.

A cruel grin emerged, “he’s been spilling the gossip on you to Jaz and the guys. Time to turn the tables. Not for anything I’m writing, just to have some revenge!”

He grinned but found himself shaking his head, “even if he sells me out, I won’t do that.”

“Aww, but he’s selling you out for love,” she clasped her hands and tucked them tight under her chin.

“For his entertainment,” he sternly corrected. But then grudgingly conceded, “he means well.”

“So, then we turn the tables. What’s his type?”

“His type?” He weirdly started to give it thought.

“Yah, his personality, his sexual orientation, what is it he needs from romance?”

“Emotionally unavailable is his type. He doesn’t care for attachments.”

“Hmm,” her fingers drummed lightly. “So, we gotta find someone that can move past that.”

Her intentions were good, so he didn’t snarl, “why do we?”

Her fingers stopped drumming.

So, he continued, “if he’s happy with his life, why force him to change it?”

“Not everyone needs or wants romance,” she was thoughtful about this, “but being afraid of it isn’t a good reason to avoid it.”

“How do you know he’s afraid?”

Tenderly her gaze held his, “what do you think?”

He looked away, no longer thinking about Pey. Being afraid was a normal response to danger. Some people just didn’t know that yet. He glanced over at Crys. Maybe she could never know that truth. There wasn’t anything wrong with her innocence.

Bags of clothing landed upon the bench and Jaz claimed the seat next to him. Ang took the one next to her sister. Their bright smiles indicated a successful excursion. He cringed to think how many clothes she’d bought him. Trying to convince her not to had proven futile, and there wasn’t a way he could afford these clothes. Especially not since he’d taken on Tanner’s project which didn’t provide any monetary compensation yet ate up his time for other projects that would pay. His healing injuries weren’t helping either. But none of these excuses had deterred Jaz.

“We’ve got time, are you guys hungry?” Jaz set her purse on the table.

He paused before refusing, “time before what?”

Ang was smiling, “he’s catching on to you fast Jaz.”

“Way too fast,” her pout was tempered with a grin. “We have a spa date next.”

“You do,” he was very quick to crush this!

Jaz picked up his hand, “by the state of these nails, you’ve never experienced the spa. An artist needs to take care of their most valuable asset.”

“An artist’s most valuable asset is their creativity. I can draw just fine with dirty fingernails,” was his argument even though it was clear he was going to lose because this was Jaz and he’d been losing to her all day.

“Come on,” she looked at Ang as she stood up. “What do you two want? We’ll go grab it.”

“Avoidance,” he muttered.

She tweaked his cheek, “I knew you’d recognize it.”

He pulled his face away, making a selection on food. The girls moved off.

Around a smile, Crys noted, “Jaz is a presence, but she’s not a force. It wouldn’t be that hard to say no to her.”

He shrugged, “Ty doesn’t want to see her upset.”

“Aww!”

“Just…don’t say it,” his hands were up defensively urging Crys to keep the comments to herself.

Running a hand through his hair was a nervous gesture. He’d thought making it a Ty-issue would mean he could hide, but that only put him in a different corner. Navigating around this family was a lot tricker than he would have ever thought.

His face fell flat, wiping all emotion clear. The hand in his hair trembled as it fell to the back of his neck. Tense fingers dug in. He knew he was growing pale, but Crys hadn’t yet noticed. He could once again hear the bat as it moved along the brick. Another sound that would always make his heart grow cold.

The handoff was so poorly done that it nearly wiped away his fear. There was confidence in the way Kurt talked with the gang member. It spoke to familiarity. Kurt eyed the crowd; comically obvious. When Kurt saw something that brought up a vicious grin, he brought the conversation to a close. He signaled his friends as the gang member moved off.

The smiles which had lit the girls’ faces a moment ago were gone as Kurt and his friends approached. Ang clung to Jaz’s arm. It was a protective move, not a timid one. Jaz was giving a hard look; one meant to mask the fear she felt.

He stood up. Was the growing pain in his ankle as he walked over real or imagined? Though running away was his style, he addressed Kurt with nothing more than a bored inflection, “fuck off.”

“What the hell are you doing here?” Kurt seemed surprised to see him. The lack of annoyance was notable.

“Maybe he has brain damage,” the comment from Kurt’s friend drew out their laughter.

“Charges can still be filed, you know,” Ang cut in from behind Sam.

Kurt spared her a momentary glance before reclaiming Sam’s gaze, “try it. You wouldn’t be the first.”

Ang stepped forward, “there’s video this time. Not even your father can make that go away.”

“Stop,” Sam held his arm out before her, not quite touching Ang. “I don’t care about charges, or who your father is. I am curious why you’re so hung up on the guy I’m screwing.”

Mouths fell open.

Sam tilted his head to the side, “you want to get to Ty, do it head on. Stop going about it like a coward.”

“Tough words, but I’m not the one that was crying in a gutter,” Kurt’s lip was twitching.

“I have no pride you can hurt,” he gave a whisper of a laugh at this. But then grew serious as a thought occurred, “but you do. Too much of it. You didn’t post that video.”

“You trying to say you didn’t?” Kurt was challenging him.

Crys was next to him, “Sam doesn’t gain anything by posting it. But you’re the one that stands to lose. After your ungraceful fall last year, another scandal like this isn’t going to help you regain your popularity. And without that Student Body President position to pad your resume, it’s going to be a lot harder to convince your father’s peers that you deserve to step into his role.”

For a moment Kurt considered Crys and her words. But after that moment, his gaze shifted back to Sam, “let your boyfriend know to enjoy his family while he can. Not everyone sticks around.”

His mind raced with those words.

“Let’s just go,” Jaz pulled at his arm.

“But if you let him keep talking,” Crys spoke with calm certainty, “he’s bound to say something incriminating that even his daddy can’t make go away.”

“Crys, we’re going now,” Ang was in protective mode.

Kurt’s eyes jump to the phone Crys was now holding up, “even if you break my phone, the recording won’t be erased. And you’re in a mall with cameras.”

“Damn,” Ang breathed. “Mom’s gonna be so proud!”

One of Kurt’s friends whispered to him, “your dad said you can’t afford another video.”

Kurt shook off the hold and the warning with anger he turned on them, “don’t think you’re so important to me that I’d bother doing anything to any of you.”

Sam poked the bear, “even if you can’t get at Ty?”

Kurt’s gaze flickered to Crys’ phone. Tight lips were slow to reveal, “I don’t give a rat’s ass about that guy either. I want nothing to do with any of you. It’s you all that keep coming at me.”

“That’s a lie,” Ang was their defender.

But Kurt was already walking away. They watched him move away into the crowd. As they watched, Sam’s hand moved back to pass his phone to Crys. She caught on quickly, enforcing this decision as a good one. Her information was put into his phone as a contact.

Crys was talking to them, “I don’t believe any of that for a second.”

“Me either,” Court’s voice came over the phone. “You guys alright?”

“Yah, thank you for helping,” she returned Sam’s phone. “We should go.”

“Wait there,” Court was telling them. “Ty and Peyton are on the way to pick you up.”

“I don’t need a rescue,” Sam snarled.

Crys leaned closer, “don’t forget the spa.”

Which had him reconsidering, “I need a rescue.”

“You really don’t have any pride,” Court taunted back. Laughing at him, “if it helps, Ty doesn’t want anything to happen to Jaz, I’m looking out for Crys and Ang, and Pey’s coming for you.”

Knowing how that would rub Ty gave him a reason to smile a little, “it helps a little.”

“Will you stop tweaking Ty’s jealous bone?” Jaz reprimanded. His suggestive grin and Court’s laughter had her blushing, “I will tell Geo on you two!”

“Ok,” came his simple, amused agreement.

“Sam!”

“Let me off the hook, I’ll convince Pey to go to the spa with you,” he was limping back to a table.

“Does he like the spa?” Ang took the seat opposite him.

“It doesn’t matter,” he laughed the question off. At their questioning looks, he let them know, “he’ll get to spend the afternoon surrounded by women. Pey won’t mind.”

Chin upon folded hands, Crys teased, “you just want to spend the rest of the day with Ty.”

“He’s so obvious, it’s adorable,” Jaz mimicked the pose.

“Whatever gets me out of this mall,” he hid poorly behind feigned annoyance.

Side Story

The quiet hum of people engrossed in their work was hypnotic. The theater only held their group, which was a nice environment for Sam. Like hell he was going to admit that though! But, despite the headaches they could give, these were people he didn’t mind being around.

The girls were busy working on wardrobe. Their soft conversation was just background noise that was pleasant to listen to. Court was working on a sound mix in the booth. Tanner was keeping Ty and Geo occupied. That left him to focus on his art. Soft was the look he knew would be on his face; the look of someone content in the moment.

What a change from what he’d come from. The soft look held a hint of sadness now. His thumb pushed paint along the canvas. It rolled up and over to coat his skin. Touches of paint bled into each other to produce a new colour. It was behaving as it should. His mind slid back to the things he had created in the dark. Not that he’d ever know, but they probably looked like crap. Yet, those times in the dark encouraged his creativity. He focused back on the canvas before him.

And upon the issue he faced in the present. It didn’t really bother him that Kurt was targeting them. It bothered him that Kurt seemed to know when and how to get at them. Kurt had seemed genuinely surprised to see him at the mall. Had it been his intention to corner Jaz and Ang then while they were alone? Or had he just taken the opportunity given? Kurt had targeted him while he was alone. If it weren’t for Kurt knowing to ambush him with a sudden, explosive sound, Sam would have written it all off as bad luck. Was it merely rumors or something more?

At some point, he’d begun to sway. Pey was gently humming yet again. His friend was often singing. He pretended that he only cared about sports, but it would be a waste to let this talent go unchallenged. Those moments, late at night while they worked in their dorm, always had Pey singing. Often, Sam would join in without even realizing that he had. Pey always encouraged him. The lyrics to a familiar song came out softly. He could keep a fair tune with Pey’s help. The art on the canvas came together in a beautiful way! This was one piece he’d keep for his portfolio.

He stood back, critiquing his work. More would be needed. As he considered what that might be, he spoke over his shoulder, “you’re dead, Pey.”

Laughter let him know that Pey had intentionally caused this outcome. Over his shoulder he glared. And he saw the stunned looks upon the others. They’d never heard him sing before. No one, other than Pey had.

“Come on,” Pey was laughing at him. “You’re really good. No need to be embarrassed.”

Court’s voice came over the speakers, “sounded great up here.”

Fingers at the corners of both eyes rubbed, “I’m going to kill you.”

Ty was walking over. His phone was ringing and he was looking to see who it was. As he answered, he kissed Sam on his cheek. He rolled his shoulder in annoyance, but Ty was already moving away with the phone at his ear, “what’s up, buddy?”

“Sam, that really was good.”

He wasn’t fool enough to think Tanner didn’t have an ulterior motive behind the compliment. He looked over slowly, “I’m not singing for your show.”

With a laugh, Tanner lifted his hands in question. But they all knew he was busted, so he relented, “fine. I’m not asking.”

“Damn right,” he muttered. His gaze moved left to watch Ty.

“I’ll drop everything for you, you know that,” Ty assured.

“Uh oh,” Ang was walking over, “is Ty cheating on you?”

With a roll of his eyes, he looked back to artwork, “he’s talking to his brother.”

“How do you know?” Geo was surprised.

“A head shorter than Ty. Slender. Bright eyes. Ernest,” Sam glanced over at Geo.

Tanner nodded, “that’s Ty’s little brother all right.”

Ty was coming over. He held Sam from behind. The call was over now. His nose touched Sam’s ear, “come with me to see my brother.”

Suspicion turned his head, “I don’t do meet the parents.”

“Don needs me, but,” Ty’s lips touched his neck, “I wanna play with you more.”

There was a muted girly squeal from Jaz and Ang.

“Who is this guy?” Geo was rhetorically asking the others. “Since when do you ask?”

The explanation came from Sam, “Ty’s big on consent.”

There was a squeal from the girls!

Sam stared blankly at the ceiling, “just remember you asked for this.”

There was a confused gesture from Geo. Smiling, Sam held his hands over Ty’s. He didn’t dislike the way it felt having Ty hold him like this.

“You agreed easily,” there was suspicion in Ty’s voice.

Pleased to hear it, Sam grinned while not offering an explanation.

“Do you know about Ty’s family?” Jaz was curious.

Sam shook his head, his focus upon his work.

“Ty, warn the poor guy,” Tanner sighed.

“I want him to come,” Ty’s defense was the reminder.

“Sam,” Geo was direct, “Ty’s family is super rich. Every cruel thing they say is veiled behind social niceties. And everything is a chore to get through.”

“True,” Ty nodded, still holding Sam. “But you’ll come, right?”

“Stop interrupting my work,” he wanted his comment to sound bored.

Ty gave a laugh of contentment, “that wasn’t a no.”