Total pages in book: 25
Estimated words: 22544 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 113(@200wpm)___ 90(@250wpm)___ 75(@300wpm)
Estimated words: 22544 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 113(@200wpm)___ 90(@250wpm)___ 75(@300wpm)
I jerked when Andy slammed into me, wrapping me tightly in his arms. I hugged him back just as fiercely, my fingers pressing into his soft sides. “That’s not true,” he whispered in my ear. “Both of us were messed up, and we reacted in different ways. You tried to be the strong big brother, and I leaned into my youth. But we made it out; all of that is behind us now. We have each other now and we can be close. I love you, Dalton.”
I wept into his shoulder, squeezing him so tightly I was probably going to leave bruises. But I needed to feel him and to know that this wasn’t just a weird and wonderful dream.
“I love you too,” I whispered, and felt Andy’s body shaking against me as he cried as well.
We clung to each other, weeping and snotting all over one another until we were gently pulled apart. Tage pulled Andy onto his lap and rocked him, while Hutch did the same for me. I rested my head on his strong chest, focusing on the rise and fall of his chest, and the rhythmic stroke of his hand on my back until I got myself under control.
“I’m sorry for getting so upset,” I told him, my cheeks warming. While I was glad the moment happened, and realized it was necessary, it was still a little embarrassing to have an audience.
“Don’t be,” he replied gently. “I am so incredibly proud of you. Vulnerability is strength. Caring is strength. I’m honored to be here with you, and I promise that your life will only continue to get better.”
That got me upset all over again, but in the best way. I was touched by his words, and comforted by his presence. I gave myself over to his care until I calmed down once again.
“Duckling, I have an idea,” I heard Tage tell Andy. “Why don’t I put on your favorite movie, and make us all some snacks?”
“Yes please, Daddy.”
Tage also asked me, “Is that okay with you, Dalton?”
I cleared my throat and answered in a voice I finally recognized, “Sure.”
I heard the pair of them leave the room, leaving me alone with Hutch. I looked up at him, able to see him clearly now that my eyes were dry (though a little swollen).
“Are you okay?” he asked gently.
I searched my heart and mind, realizing that I felt lighter, freer, and happier than ever before. I was positive when I nodded and answered, “I’m great.”
“Yes, you are,” he replied before pressing a kiss to my forehead. I loved all of his kisses, but that one may have been the sweetest.
Hutch helped me to my feet and led me back into the living room, where Andy was sitting on the couch. He smiled at me and patted the cushion, motioning for me to sit next to him. When I did, Hutch went into the kitchen to help Tage gather snacks.
They returned a few minutes later, carrying armloads of goodies, including popcorn, cookies, and sodas. Andy clapped at the sight of all of the treats, and said he was so excited for our first 'snack and movie party' together. I was still full of donuts from breakfast, but I wasn't about to let him down. I'd stuff myself to bursting if it made him happy.
Hutch sat next to me and Tage settled in by Andy before turning on the television. Just as he pulled up the streaming service, there was a knock on the door. Tage excused himself to answer it, and the other three of us turned to watch curiously.
When the door opened, my heart dropped into my stomach. Standing there were two men I could never forget; the two I'd met in the toy store long ago, and whom I injured when I burned it down.
"Hiya, Doc," the younger-looking man greeted before stepping around him and hurrying over to the couch. "Hey, Andy! Me and Daddy are gonna go check on the store. You want to come with us? I bet your Daddy will get you a new toy!" He leaned in closer and whispered (although it was still pretty loud), "He never says no!" He giggled into his hand, but stopped when Andy shook his head.
"That sounds fun," my brother replied, "But I can't today. I'm spending time with my brother."
"Your brother?" The young man looked at me for the first time since entering the apartment, having given all his attention to Andy. His eyes widened and he said simply, "Oh."
He recognized me too, and why wouldn't he? I had put his life in danger. I saw his skull crack open on the concrete, but seeing as he was standing in front of me, I assumed he was the vampire in the duo.
His partner joined him quickly, wrapping his arm around his shoulders, as if protecting him from me. He had every right to do so. I stood up to face them, and Hutch joined me, putting a supportive hand on my back. I knew whatever happened, he was with me.