Date: Sun, 5 Aug 2007 00:07:34 -0400 From: Dwedno Smith Subject: Chapter 77 of Tunnel All, Sorry for the added week delay, been busy running around and getting this chapter perfect....I hope... so to compensate I made it a little longer. Enjoy the story. THANKS TO EVERYONE who has written me. I am working on returning e mails to those who I havent gotten to yet but I was actually a little overwhelmed with something to read from you guys. Till next time take care and continue to write to let me know about things. Dwedno. Chapter 77. Tommy returns... slowly... Sound asleep just a few feet away Shawn was resting peacefully as Tommy reached out and touched him. Not yet able to move a lot with a decent amount of pain Tommy stroked Shawn's face and ran his fingers through his hair for a good minute before Tommy could get him awake. "Tommy stop touching me I am trying to sleep! He said. His little brain not quite engaged he suddenly realized that he was being touched. His eyes opened and he sat up and looked over. TOMMY!" he cried out "Shusssshhh...keep your voice down my head is pounding!" he could hardly talk. "TJ is that really you? I have missed you so much the past few days." "Yes it's me now lower your voice please cutie." "Can I get you anything? Water, food? Anything?" "I would love a hug but right now I hurt too much so it can wait. Give me a sip of water." He handed Tommy the water cup and he drank a big mouthful slowly swallowing it. "Thanks cutie that's a little better." He said getting some of his voice back. Shawn smiled at him. "I know TJ you must be in some pain you were shot twice." "By who Shawn, who did it and are they still around?" "No TJ, Kyle killed Travis after he shot you and Jon." "Jon was shot too? Travis shot me? What the hell...?" "All you need to know is Jon is okay he was just hit in the arm. You were shot in the back and the other bullet went through your arm, can't you feel it?" "Now that you mention it... yes it hurts like freaking hell!" "I'll get you something for the pain now TJ if you want." "In a minute cutie but what about Travis what happened?" "Kyle can tell you more TJ, he hasn't really said a lot about it since he killed him." "Is he okay, I mean after the killing is he handling it okay?" "Yes he seems to be fine but he just hasn't talked much about it." "Okay look I want you to go get him now. NO ONE but him. If anyone asks you what is going on tell them its private and nothing more. Bring Kyle here for me okay?" "What do I tell him?" "Just tell him you need him to come here, he is probably with Luke, and I don't want anyone else knowing I am awake until morning." "Okay TJ I will be right back." Shawn hurried downstairs as quietly as he could. He went over to Kyle's door and turned the knob slowly pushing it open. He crept in and thankfully the night lights were bright enough so he could see his way to the bed and the dog didn't bark. He pet Patches then went over to the side that Kyle was sleeping on and shook him a little. No response. He shook once more and Kyle opened his eyes. Shawn immediately brought his hand to his mouth and made the sign to be quiet. Kyle got the idea and carefully got out of bed and headed into the other room with Shawn following. "What is wrong Shawn? It Tommy okay?" "I don't want to wake Luke up, he said in a whisper, let's go upstairs." Kyle grabbed shorts and followed Shawn upstairs quickly not saying anything else as he worried what happened to his brother. He went to the door and ran inside and Shawn followed quickly shutting the door behind. Kyle stopped dead in his tracks as he saw Tommy was awake. "OH TJ YOU ARE ALIVE!" He said loudly not realizing anything about the time. "QUIET! Tommy barked out at him I don't want anyone to know right now!" "Are you okay what can I do for you, do you need anything?" "Kyle, Kyle... easy... its fine. Just relax and take a breath." "Okay sorry. I just want to hug you right now." "I want that too love but it hurts too much." Kyle immediately went and grabbed some pain pills and brought them to his brother's side. "Here take these. Bryan brought them over for when you woke up. He told me to give you two and no more. They are called Oxycodine or something like that. He said they are very powerful so maybe you should just take one at a time." "That's a good idea Kyle. I have heard of these, they are strong so just give me one for now." He drank it down with water and put his head back on his pillow. Then Kyle handed Shawn the cup and took TJ by his hand. "Damn I reek, how long have I been out Kyle?" "Well... you were shot on Sunday TJ... its Thursday morning." "Wholly fuck! I have been gone for four days?" "Yes we were starting to get really worried." "I bet... look I am tired but I don't want anyone knowing about this till morning then we can surprise them. Shawn can answer any more questions I might have tonight but I want to rest some more for now. Get them all together downstairs for a meeting in the game room after we talk in the morning first. I will take things from there and hopefully I will be able to sit up or stand by morning. Right now I can't do anything just yet. I have things to talk about and maybe some guys will believe me and maybe they might all think I have gone crazy but that's for morning... not now." "I don't have a clue what you are talking about but its all fine right now all I care about is that you are back Tommy..." Kyle began to cry and that started Shawn too. Tommy reached out and wiped his tears away as a few formed in his eyes too. "Its okay KY, I am gonna be fine now I know it." "How can you be sure TJ you were hurt badly, your head and infection and so on..." Kyle just kept blubbering on and on... "KYLE! TJ yelled out at him immediately stopping his whining. "Sorry... he sniffed back tears... TJ, what?" "Look, promise you won't think my head wound made me wacky okay?" "Okay but what...?" "Look I am not going to get into it too much right now I am tired but... I know I will be okay I have it on higher authority." "Huh? What do you mean?" "To make it short I had a visitor while I was passed out." "Really? He had Kyle's total attention. Who could you have possibly talked to while you were passed out? GOD?" "Not quite but a real blonde headed angel?" Kyle thought for a second... "I am clueless... who TJ?" "The little angel who is buried in the backyard..." Both Kyle and Shawn's eyes almost bugged out of their heads. "What? Both of them said together...then Kyle continued... How?" "I trust you and Shawn and both of you know me well enough that you can read me so I think when I say this... you will believe me. He paused. But I am not telling the others much about this right now because they will probably think I hit my head and it made me nuts." "Okay bro I hear you and I know Shawn does too, what happened?" "Trevor came to me in my dreams... it's the only thing I can think of. He told me I was needed here, I was going to live and that he loved me..." "Okay I believed you until you said he loved you...now I do think you are crazy." "KYLE!" "Okay, okay, sorry I am only teasing you... go on..." "I am not going to get into specifics right now but the short version is that he was the angel who I saw clear as day and he told me a lot but he told me that I was needed here and that the boys needed me most and he mentioned them by name." "Really he used names?" "Yes he was quite specific throughout the entire dream or whatever it was and I felt him guys... I felt in inside me... in my heart, in my head... I could feel his love flowing through me. He told me he was sorry, he told me about how much he cared about me after what happened with Robert. He even told me stuff I didn't know." "Wow!" Kyle said. "That's amazing!" Shawn added. "I know and as soon as I feel a little better I will tell you more but you do believe me guys don't you?" "Honestly TJ it's hard to believe you went through something this weird but its also easy to tell because I know you so well brother... so yes I do believe you and its messing up my head to hear all this." "I know KY how do you think I felt, I think if it weren't for Trevor I might still be out cold." "You might be right bro." "Anyway that's enough for now I will tell you a lot more in the morning after I get some real asleep." "Okay TJ... he looked at Shawn... if anything happens or goes wrong I expect you to be at my door in 5 second flat? Got me?" "Yes Kyle I understand, I know you love your brother but no picking on me!" "Sorry Shawnee I didn't mean it." "I know. Go and let him sleep." He got up and headed out but looked back and waved as he left the room. He shut the door and almost shit himself when he turned and saw Jon standing down the hall. "What is going on in there why did I hear talking?" "Its late Jon everything is fine, go back to bed before the whole house is up and I will tell you in the morning. I promise its okay." "All right but you better..." "I will...he said sternly now go!" he pointed and Jon actually went back into his room. Wow I didn't think I had that kinda power with him... he laughed it off as he headed back downstairs to his room and quietly entered not to wake Luke. He got back into bed and thankfully Luke only rolled over some. He sighed and closed his eyes...TOMMY IS BACK!!! YES! He thought in his mind... As he fell back to sleep after a while. Back up in the bedroom Tommy was looking at Shawn now he motioned for him to get closer. "I hope I didn't scare you at all cutie with the story about Trevor." "Nope not one bit, I think it's awesome that he came to you." "Good, I am glad you believe me." "Sure I do TJ why wouldn't I, you wouldn't lie to me about something this important I just know that!" "You are right my angel now scoot around after you put the light out and come lay next to me I missed so much the last few days and all I want to do is fall asleep with you close to me." Shawn did as Tommy asked and it didn't take long for the pill to kick in and both of them were sleeping shortly after Shawn got back into bed. It was 3:30 am now... the rest of the night went fast and morning came quickly for Shawn but not Tommy who was still passed out from what the pill did to him. Morning came and Tommy slept. Shawn woke about 8am excited to talk to him more about everything but he didn't dare wake him. A little while after Shawn woke; Kyle came into the room and shut the door. "He's still asleep?" he said quietly. "Yes he is. He slept good too. I don't think I felt him move once." "He is breathing Shawn right?" "Of course he is. I watched his belly move Kyle he just wasn't moving his body much." "Oh, okay I guess we can let him sleep for a bit longer I am going to tell the few that are awake that we have a meeting at 10am and everyone has to be there." "That's sure to get them going Kyle." "I know and when you walk in with Tommy its going to get crazy." "If he can walk you mean. Remember last night he said he was still in a lot of pain." "I STILL AM! AND AWAKE THANKS TO BOTH OF YOU!" "TJ!" Shawn exclaimed. "Bro you are awake!" Kyle added. "Yes I am awake. It was nice to sleep until two loud mouths woke me." "Sorry." Kyle said to him. "Yeah sorry TJ we didn't mean to." Shawn added. "Its okay I didn't want to sleep too late. How about getting me a pain pill Kyle? He walked over and grabbed the bottle of pills and brought one to his brother. "Ya know Kyle this knocked me out last night how about we try a half and maybe it will kill the pain and I can still do what I want to." "Okay bro but I don't have anything to cut it with." "Go in the top left draw of my dresser over there." Kyle walked over to this dresser and pulled open the draw that Tommy told him to. Inside were a bunch of miscellaneous things from knives and forks to blades and batteries and so on. "Nice junk draw bro but what do you want in here." "Grab the blue handled knife and be careful its super sharp and should slice through that pill easily. And don't put any slices in the dresser, cut in on a book or something." Kyle turned to Shawn and got his attention. "Shawn... he looked at Kyle... isn't it great to have my pain in the ass brother back?" They both smiled. "Yeah it sure..." "Are you two done over there or should I get up and get it myself?" he barked out smiling at them. "Maybe I shouldn't give it to him Shawn see how much he bitches then." "Now Kyle we can't be nasty just yet. After all we should give him a day to get his strength back first then ignore him." "Yeah maybe you are right." Kyle cut the pill in half and walked it over to Tommy and stood close but not close enough to get smacked. "You gonna hit me?" he said sarcastically. "Only if you don't give me that half a pill." He said smiling at Kyle. Kyle handed him the pill and bottle of water at the side of his bed. He popped it into his mouth and drank down half the bottle of water with it. "Damn that water tastes good!" he said. Kyle noticed the book on the end of the table and turned to Tommy. "What's this?" he said holding the book up. "Oh you mean that Harry Potter book?" "Yeah, I never saw that in here before." "Its book one... I really got into it...I have the other four books put away for when I can get to them. I would have loved to read them all but... well you know she never got to finish the series KY." "Yeah there was supposed to be seven books but I guess we will never know what happens now that everyone is gone. I read them all as they came out you could have asked me for my copies. They are back home... how long have you been reading TJ?" "About a month. I was trying to think of something else to do with all my free time so I stopped and picked them up while I was out one day. I use it when I am bored." "So this is something new. I haven't seen this side of my brother." "How about I show you a side of me you don't want to see!" "No I don't think so you haven't showered in quite a few days and from what I hear that side of you is kinda raunchy." "Oh Kyle your words cut me!" Shawn stood there watching the two of them clown around like nothing happened. "Looks like things are back to normal." He said. They both looked at him. "What does that mean you munchkin?" Tommy asked. "You two are acting like nothing happened and you were gone for so long..." he started to cry. Kyle went over to cutie and put his arm around him and Tommy cautiously walked over the few feet he was away and stood there while Kyle comforted Shawn some. "Its okay Shawnee kid you know we are playing and we have to do it this way." He so badly wanted to hold Shawn right now but was still in bed. "Yeah Shawn we have to do this because it hurts too much to think about what could have happened." Kyle added. He wiped his face and looked at Tommy. "I know but I was just listening and thinking about how long I spent in here and how quiet it was the whole time I sat with you. I mean Jon and Kyle were in and out and so were all the other guys but I was in here a lot after the first night." Shawn walked over by Tommy and he reached out and brushed Shawn's hair. "Who was here the first night if you weren't?" "He was TJ. Actually we both were. He wouldn't leave your side especially when you got shot. I was so proud of him the way he went up to Travis and stood there before he shot him." "You saw that Shawn?" "Yes Kyle I watched you the whole time you were down there just incase something happened." Kyle hugged him tightly and they held it for a moment. "Then you came back up to us. He looked at Tommy. The only way we could get him away from you was when Bryan asked me to get him out of the room so he could get the bullet out of your back." "Really. So you mean Kyle actually listens to you Shawn?" "Sometimes." The three of them laughed. It was really tense in the room as all of this came out and the three boys talked it out. "At the time TJ Shawn was the only one I could really hear. I was so fixed on you that his voice was really the only thing that came through that block. Its almost like that entire thing was a blur now when I think back on it." Kyle said to both of them. "So then I guess I owe Bryan my life?" Tommy said. "In a way TJ but DJ, Jeremy, and Ben worked on you too." "Really Shawn..." "Yeah, Jeremy ran his ass off getting ice and water while Bryan stopped the bleeding with DJ helping it was amazing to watch them help you." "I guess I owe a lot of people thanks." He said. "Actually we owe you and that was just a little payback bro... you have done way more than that." "I don't know Kyle, saving my life is sorta up there when it comes to favors." "Yeah well I guess but you still have done a lot." "Yeah I have but it's over with so we can put it behind us now and move on." "I want to move on TJ but you need to heal first and then we can move on." "You can... but I have work to do before I can guys. I need to see Travis ALONE!" "But Tommy he is dumped somewhere and probably gross looking by now." "Maybe but its been cold out right?" "Yes it got cold again a few days ago." "Cold like freezing and snow?" "Yes TJ why?" "Because if it's been that cold then he probably is still okay to see." "Okay... ya know... I think I got the idea. You can do what you want when you feel better but I don't want to talk about Travis anymore he is dead to me and its best that way!" "Okay for now we are done but I still want to talk to you about that shooting and clarify a few things just you and me alone!" "Okay I understand we can do that later." "Okay Kyle lets get back to the others." "Yeah that's a good idea." Shawn said. "Now do you think you can pull this off without any problems?" "Yeah I don't see it being a big deal. The only thing is getting everyone up and out of bed." "Who is awake now?" "When I came in, Luke, Jeremy, Todd and I think I saw Danny but if it was him it was a quick shot of him I saw but that was twenty minutes ago. By now anyone can be up." "Okay then go check and start knocking on doors at 9am. If they want to know what is going on tell them you have new information on me and there is a 10am meeting in the game room." "Okay bro, I'll get on it. What about you?" "Shawn is going to walk me into the bathroom so I can pee I feel like I haven't gone in a week. Then we will take it from there." "Okay. I'll go so you can try and go too. If I have any problems I will come back in." "All right Kyle just be very persuasive and I am sure you will get them all there on time." "Don't worry about that. I am sure they will all be there. There is one thing though...last night when I left Jon was out in the hall and he scared the shit out of me when I left here. He said he heard voices coming from the room and wanted to know what was happening. I told him everything was okay and to go back to bed." "Do you think he knows?" "You know him TJ if he did he would have come running into the room." "Yeah you are right. Maybe we should let him in on this before time or he might get upset." "That's up to you TJ this is all your decision." "Yeah maybe it will be better to get him in here first he can help bring me down. He looked at Shawn... Shawn I appreciate everything but I just don't think you are strong enough to help me down the steps okay cutie?" "Sure TJ the last thing I want is for you to fall and it's my fault. Let Jon help if he can do it better." "Do you want me to get him now?" "Yeah go wake him up before everyone is awake and they know." "Okay, I'll send him in and he will be surprised when he sees you." "Yeah but first wait... you and Shawn help me up and let's see if I can walk." They both went to him and very slowly he let them each pull his arms until he was sitting up. "How's that feel?" his brother asked him. "It hurts especially the shoulder." "Do you want to go further TJ?" Kyle asked. "Yes I have to or I will never get past this." "Okay we will go slowly." Kyle said. He turned and moved his leg. His muscles were stiff from not using them for a few days so it pained him a little bit. With a grimace on his face he put his first foot on the floor and that brought his other leg around and as both boys steadied him his feet both hit the floor with a dull thud. "Okay that was fun!" he said sarcastically. "How do you feel?" "Sore cutie, very sore. Now with my good arm and shoulder I want you to pull me Kyle... and Shawn you steady me just incase." "Okay bro." Kyle pulled his arm cautiously and Shawn stood by his side as he slowly rose to his feet. "How is that?" "Good Kyle. It didn't hurt much but I am sore from being in bed so long." He took a step and it was fine. He followed with another and he stopped. "Are you okay?" "Yes just taking it slow right now." "Okay." Kyle was doing all the talking while Shawn just watched and tried to help for the moment. Step by step he walked slowly toward the bathroom. When he got halfway he looked at Kyle. "I'll be okay Kyle go start on getting the boys prepared for this give me a minute or two and then go wake Jon if he is still asleep." "Okay if you need anything send Shawn immediately." "Yes Kyle I promise I will." He gave him one more look and then Kyle was out the door, off to get Jon up and then the rest of the boys together for the meeting. He walked down the hall and knocked on his door. "Come in." Jon said. "Oh good you are up." "Yes I didn't sleep much last night after I saw you come out. What was up with that?" "Tell you what Jon give it a minute and you can go see for yourself." Jon grinned. "He's awake isn't he?" Kyle smiled. "Why didn't you tell me last night?" "Tommy's orders he didn't want anyone in there so he could get some real sleep and he didn't want to disrupt the whole house at that hour he just wanted to wait until this morning. Now he said to get you and send you in but he is taking a piss first." "Damn that might take a month since the last time he went." They both laughed. "I have to get everyone into the game room for a meeting at 10 but I think we should do it sooner. So I am gonna tell them 9:30 and then Tommy wants you to help him down so we can surprise all of them together." "Great idea." Jon added. "I am gonna go make sure everyone is up and when you go in tell Tommy that I moved it up to 9:30." "Sure Kyle." Kyle left him and went to do his job. Back in Tommy's room: "Shawn stay with me just incase I lose my balance" "I'm right here TJ don't worry I won't let you fall." "Yeah and who is gonna pick you up when you fall squirt?" "I'm not falling TJ now come one we will be fine!" Out of the mouths of babe's my little hero is gonna protect me at any cost! We walked into the bathroom and I to the bowl. I took out my cock and let the stream hit the bowl. It was the first time I could ever remember going this long without taking a leak. I went and went and went for a good two minutes as Shawn stood there watching me without saying a word. When I finished I shook off and put my dick away and looked at Shawn. "All done cutie." "Geeze TJ I thought you might flood us out." "I thought I could too but I feel great now that it's over." I put my good arm around my love and he helped me back to the bed and I sat on it and relaxed for a bit. "Ya know TJ I sure missed all the fun we usually have for the last few days." "Yeah I am sure you did, as soon as I feel up to it we will have it again. Maybe tonight if I feel okay I'll let you play with it some." "Awesome I want to make you squirt so badly TJ." "I can imagine you do Shawn I bet it's gonna be a huge mess when I do." We both laughed at that. The pain pill was starting to kick in now. I didn't feel as bad and with only taking half a pill I wasn't as tired as last night. Maybe that's what I need. These might be a stronger dose than I need. There was a knock at the door... Back with Kyle: He was knocking on doors to check to see if everyone was awake or waking them. He was done upstairs right now and so far has gotten everyone to be downstairs at 9:30 for the meeting. Kyle was now heading downstairs to tell whoever was down there. Tommy's room: A few more knocks... "Shawn whoever it is go check and if it's anyone but Jon send them away." "Okay TJ." he said in a very low voice. He went over and opened the door a crack and it was Jon. "Come in but be quiet Jon we don't want anyone knowing if you raise your voice someone might hear." He walked it as Shawn was giving him directions. But didn't listen as he yelled out Tommy when he saw him sitting at the end of the bed. "SHUT UP JON! He yelled at him. I don't want anyone knowing yet it's a surprise." "Oh sorry... he said in a much lower voice. Boy am I glad to see you awake." "Yeah Jon its good to see you too." "How are you feeling?" he said. He was all smiles as he approached Tommy. "The pain pill I took a little while ago is kicking in so I feel a little better now. Otherwise there is a lot of pain." "Yeah I bet." "How are you Jon? I hear you took a bullet too." "Yeah the one that passed through your arm grazed mine." He showed him his bandage. "I think tomorrow it can come off its healing well." "Good, so Kyle got the bastard huh?" "Yeah Kyle nailed him for us." "I would love to know how he was able to follow them and find us out here." "I would too TJ but all I can think is that he had this planned and just followed them here at a distance they couldn't see him at or just weren't looking." "I see you have had a lot of time to think this out." "Yeah most of it while I was sitting in here next to you and waiting for you to wake up." "You know Jon...I really wanna hug you so much right now but I can't it just hurts too much to lift both arms and probably to get hugged too." "I know TJ. I know." Just then Kyle walked in. Now the four of them were there together. "Did you tell him?" Kyle asked. "Shit no I forgot." Jon said. "Tell me what?" Tommy said. "Sorry Kyle." Jon added. "Oh forget it, its not that big a deal." Kyle said as they both totally ignored Tommy for a moment. "TELL ME WHAT?" he said in a little louder voice. "Quiet! Kyle yelled at him. Or you will ruin your own surprise. He was supposed to tell you that we are gonna do this at 9:30 instead of 10." "Oh well that's fine it's less time I have to hide in here." "It's almost that time now TJ." "Yeah I know Shawn. Why don't you and Kyle go down and make sure everyone is in the room and I'll have Jon come out and you can give him the okay signal and I will work my way down when it's clear to." "Okay we can do that." With that Shawn and Kyle left leaving Jon alone with Tommy. "You know TJ I wanted to be with you so badly while you were out. I almost... well you know." "Yeah Jon I think I do know and lets hope nothing like this ever happens again!" "I know TJ, boy do I know." "Well one thing for sure as soon as this is over one way or another I need a shower." "But your back is bandaged." "Then I will figure something out. Maybe you can check it to see if its healed enough." "And your arm too TJ that cant be healed there was a hole through it." "Okay, okay Jon I get the point, maybe I'll just let you wash me with your tongue." "EEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWW!!!! Sorry TJ I don't love you that much!!" They both started laughing. "I'm gonna go check and see if they are ready." "Okay Jon." He walked out and Tommy stayed put on the bed not really wanting to move much without someone close to him. He was actually a little scared with all that happened to him. After all its only been about eight hours since his return from the land of unconsciousness. Jon poked his head in the door. "Nothing yet, I am going back out." The clock on his night stand said 9:35 now so it should happen soon. Less than a minute later Jon came in. "Its time for your show TJ." "Okay come help me up." Jon walked over and gently helped him to his feet with his good arm. "You ready for this?" "Yes, I am gonna hold the banister and you walk in front of me incase I lose my balance this way if I fall forward I have you to grab onto." "Gee thanks, take both of is out." "Oh Jon you are strong enough to hold me up, come on..." They bickered all the way to the top of the steps before both of them quieted down. Jon went first and Tommy followed going one step at a time. They could hear Kyle inside talking about something and after they got to the bottom they could see Shawn standing close by. Finally they reached the bottom as Tommy's face contorted some with the last step he took. "Are you sure you can do this?" Jon whispered to him. "Yes. He replied in a low voice too. I will be fine there is just some back pain from the healing I think." "Okay then here we go." Jon gave Shawn the signal and he turned and walked over and gave it to Kyle as he went in and sat down. The spot that Kyle was standing in he would be the first to see then as they approached. Steps from the doorway Jon walked past Tommy and went inside to take his seat. "It's about time you got here." Billy said when Jon walked in. "Sorry I was in the bathroom. He looked at Kyle as he sat. So what's this big announcement you have for all of us?" Jon said playing this out to the end. "I just wanted to tell everyone the latest about my brother and I thought it would be best to have all of you here." He looked over and saw Tommy in position. "Is he all right?" Jordan asked. "Yeah he didn't get worse did he?" Jeremy followed up. "No he is... he looked at Tommy and he started to walk in. he is right here!" With that he walked into the room and all the boys stood and looked at him. A bunch of gasps went up at first and they were followed by cheers. Kyle quickly wert and stood in front of him so no one would get close enough to touch him. The boys got very loud as they applauded Tommy. He stood there taking it all in almost to the point of being in tears. Finally the room got quiet enough for him to speak. "Thanks everyone. That felt really good considering how long it's been since I have seen any of you. You all look older." They started to laugh. "How are you feeling Tommy?" Zack yelled out. There was some surprise to his question since not too many of the boys knew Zack was on his way back to being less trouble now. "Let's just say I will be okay. I have it on good authority. I am taking some medicine to ease the pain. I woke up last night in the middle of the night which is why no one knew. The last thing I wanted was everyone being jarred out of bed at 3am just because I was awake and I wanted some real sleep too so I decided to wait until now to see all of you." "Is there a lot of pain Tommy?" "Well Todd when the pill isn't working there is enough to make me hurt but I expect that in the next few days I should be getting better slowly. I really am grateful to all of you for being here for me and it really is good to see all of you again." "Tommy do you remember anything that happened?" "No DJ, not yet. It was all a blur when it happened in the first place but I do believe that I have you and Ben to thank among a few others... Jeremy... for helping to keep me alive." "How is your head now?" DJ asked. "Still hurts a lot but again the pill is taking most of the pain away." Kyle interrupted everyone's questions. "Okay I think its time for Tommy to go lay back down but we wanted everyone to see he was okay." Again everyone cheered and clapped for him. He waved and said thank you as he turned with Jon's help to go back upstairs. As he climbed the steps all the boys were down at the bottom watching him intently. He got to the top quicker than he went down and turned and waved to all of them. "I am going to rest for a bit and then later I'll be back down. I need to talk to a few of you... Todd, Caleb, and Zack so each of you stick around you will be coming in to see me shortly but right now I want my brother to join me alone in my room. Thanks again guys." He turned and headed towards his room with Jon next to him. Kyle headed up the steps and towards Tommy's room as the other boys started to go about their own business. Kyle walked in as Tommy sat on the bed and he looked at Jon. "Thanks bud now I need to talk to my brother." "Yeah I know I will be in my room for a bit. If you need anything just yell." "I will Jon, thanks." Jon walked out shutting the door behind him. "Okay now it's your turn Kyle. I want details on what happened during the shooting and don't leave a thing out." "Sure TJ. All I know before I went outside is I heard the shots from my room. I ran out with my gun and by the time I got to the door you and Jon was on the ground and there was a lot of blood. DJ was screaming for help since I think he was the first to find you. I ran out and down the driveway to see if I could find out who was shooting but I heard and saw nothing at first. Then I heard him. He was laughing and I looked over in his direction he said `I got the bastard' as he laughed out loud and taunted me. He was at the bottom of the driveway standing there on the grass holding a gun. As soon as I saw him he lifted his arms and pointed the gun at me. He said it was my turn now that he got you and he wasn't about to leave anyone from our family behind. He aimed at me and I immediately aimed at him taking a defensive stance at the top of the driveway. Before he could fire I got off three shots the first two got him, one in the shoulder and the other into his chest. He fell over and was on the grass as I approached him slowly..." Tommy was now holding his brothers hand as he told the story. It was extremely stressful in the room at the moment. Kyle cleared his throat and moved next to Tommy on the bed as he went on. They were inches apart as he continued. "I had my finger on the trigger as I got to him. I stopped and looked before I approached him and then I went over next to him. I knew I got him good and he was spitting up blood as he tried to make fun of what he did to you. He asked if he got you and he tried to laugh but spit up blood instead. He said `I got him good that bastard. He thought he would get away with marching my naked ass through the mall and as I watched... then he stopped and he coughed again spitting up more blood as I listened to him and held the gun pointed at his head. He tried to talk more but he was getting worse. He said... `HE... He thought he would get away with that Kyle but I got the last laugh I killed him!!' I was seeing red then TJ, I was at the end of trying to control myself, and I couldn't take it anymore. I said to him... You are wrong you son of a bitch he is still alive but you won't be much longer. Then he coughed again and smiled at me. I had enough TJ I couldn't take it anymore so I squeezed off one more shot into his head and I blew his brains all over the grass. I was so scared TJ... more than when I was lost after the comet, more than any other time I can remember. All I thought about was you lying there and all the blood I saw when I got to the door." Kyle lowered his head and started crying. Tommy put his arm around his brother and pulled Kyle to himself tightly. Suddenly there wasn't any pain... just two brothers both crying over the shooting. Tommy was holding Kyle as best as he could as he dealt with everything that happened that day. He held it in for all this time waiting for Tommy to come back. His fears, his anger, his frustrations of watching his brother lay there close to death in his bed. It was all coming out now right here, right next to his brother. There was nothing but their cries and sniffles for the next few minutes and finally Kyle got up to get a tissue. He brought the box back and both of them wiped their faces clean. "I love you so much Kyle Nicholas." Tommy said as he placed several kisses on his brother's head. Tommy had regained some of his composure now but Kyle was still quite the blubbering mess as he continued to cry. He was crying for the joy of Tommy's return but he was also crying because he took another persons life even though he was all but forced to. Nevertheless it wasn't joy that was winning out at the moment. Tommy held his brother tightly, as tight as he could while he tried to regain his composure now. Finally he let go and Kyle wiped his face with his hands and looked at his brother. "I love you TJ. I am so glad I have you back and I don't ever want to lose you again." He leaned in and kissed Tommy on the lips. It wasn't anything gay just an `I love you brother' quick kiss that meant more then words could say to Tommy. "Tommy please promise me you will take your time and heal properly without doing anything stupid. I don't want one thing to happen to you that makes it take any longer then necessary for you to get better... Promise?" "Yes Kyle I promise. You have my word I will not risk anything until I feel better. Its gonna be okay little brother, I promise you it will. Remember my angel... I will be fine." "Yeah, Trevor... I forgot but TJ now it's your turn. I told you everything now I want you to tell me everything that you can remember. What did he say to you?" "Kyle are you sure... some of it can sound really wacky now as I repeat it and I don't want you thinking I am crazy." "It's too late for that. I already know you are." They both started to laugh and finally the tension in the room was broken some. "If you really want to know I remember mostly everything he said to me. It's all inside me. In my heart and in my head." "Then yes I want to know whatever you can tell me." "Okay little brother but remember you have been warned." "I know its okay." "All I know is I was out for a long time or so it seemed to be to me. Then I heard Tommy... hey Tommy how are you? He said I see you just came back. I have been watching over the house while you were hurt and out of it. I miss having all the boys around. I asked who it was and he said Wow how fast you forget so I told him I was sorry I was hurt and my brain wasn't working properly since I fell. I told him I didn't know who he was and I asked why he was bothering me." Kyle sat there unemotional listening to every word his brother said. He said that's awful rude of you Thomas to call someone you said you cared about a bother. I told him he was starting to freak me out and I asked who he was. It seemed like he was playing with me at first Kyle but you will see. He said not just yet Thomas. Since you have forgotten so quickly I want to see if can jar your memory some... Tommy went on and recited almost verbatim what Trevor said to him in his dream, he didn't say anything while Tommy talked about it, all he did was run his hand gingerly over his back avoiding his wound. "So as he started to fade away I began to wake up. When he was gone I was awake almost like he did that for me Kyle. I still can't believe it or think something this special is possible but like I just told you that's what happened and you can think I am nuts or that Trevor is really watching over us." "I think Trevor is watching over us TJ. No one can make a story like that up and remember it so well so it has to be true. Maybe over the next few days we might see something that will prove it but right now I have you back and I couldn't be happier that you are here and that's all the proof I need." "Thanks for believing me KY; it means a lot to me." "I know TJ it means a lot to me that you would take the time to tell me all about it." "Okay I think we need a break from this KY how about you help me downstairs I want to go out on the porch for a bit." "You sure?" "Totally!" "Okay bro." Tommy got up slowly and Kyle stood close by and watched. He slowly walked to the door on his own and opened it. He turned and looked at Kyle. "Success!" They both laughed. He walked out to the steps on his own and moved a little faster then he has been. Once on the steps he was joined by his brother and took them slowly but made it down with just the banister as a guide. "Well that was fun but at least I made it KY." "Yeah you did and I feel better now that I saw you do that too." "Okay let's get to the door." Tommy walked with Kyle at his side and they both stopped at the coat rack. "You think we will need these?" "I would have to say yes since it snowed last night." "Wow usually I see that but I have been so wrapped up in my injuries I haven't even thought much about the outside world." He grabbed his coat as did Kyle and both boys headed to the door. Tommy opened it and a cold blast hit him. "Wow looks like winter is back. Before I was shot KY, we had a good week without snow or really cold air." "Yeah well it came back about three days ago and all I thought about was you missing it." "Well I am not missing it now! Come on I need some fresh air." He went out with Kyle and both boys stood on the step where Tommy hit his head. "Guess this is as close as I want to come to that day now Kyle." Tommy stepped down one more step and was on the landing where he was as the shot was fired. "Seems weird now." He said. It was a blustery cold day with temperatures around 35 degrees and a new inch of snow on the ground. "The day I was shot it was warmer and we lost all that snow we had a while before that KY." "I know TJ I was starting to think we might have a few weeks without snow but it sure feels like it now doesn't it?" "Yeah... look at the sky KY, silver clouds moving at that speed." "They sure are flying by bro. think we are gonna get any snow?" "Yes I do. Which makes me think about other things... how are we doing with supplies Kyle?" "We are fine, the boys were here from the farm a few days ago, and they brought milk and eggs for us and for Bryan. They also wanted to know when you woke up." "I'll take care of that when I get back. I will call them and surprise them myself but right now I want to stretch my legs and live a little! Let's take a walk up the hill Kyle I want to surprise them at the other house." "Are you sure bro? I mean its fine but I don't want you going too far and not being able to get back." "I'm fine Kyle, just a little slow but the more I walk the less my legs hurt and the better my body feels. Its like I was in a cocoon for the past few days and the more I do the better I feel, the looser I get." "How is your arm?" "Sore but passable." "How about your back?" "Same thing." I said as he grilled me about how I felt. "Okay TJ you're the boss. Let's go take your walk." We stopped at the bottom of our driveway for a second. "Is this where you killed him KY?" "Yeah right over there. He pointed in the direction for me. If you want to see more I am sure there is still some of him left in the grass under the snow." "No thanks I will pass on that." I had enough of that so we headed up the hill slowly. We walked up the hill together. It was the most time I have spent with my brother in a while, at least conscious, that is... I took it slow and thought about how things are now... in between the little comments we made to each other as we walked. All I could think about was driving, getting back to normal, and doing what I used to do before this happened to me... like...ummm... Bitch and complain about how things should be in the house and so on. It's good to be back! I made sure Kyle knew how important he is to me by touching and teasing him some as I put my arm around him. We were now at the bottom of their driveway... It was a little slippery but we managed the climb just fine. No one saw us so when we knocked on the door it was a complete surprise as Kate answered it. "OH my God Tommy!" She went to hug me and Kyle stepped in front of her to stop her. My body guard! "No KATE! Sorry you can't yet!" he said sternly. "OH, oh, oh... I'm sorry, you are right I totally forgot about his back and arm. Come on in guys." We walked in and she shut the door behind us leaving the chilly air outside. "It's good to be back here Kate how are things and how are you getting used to the neighborhood?" "Oh please Tommy that can wait, how are you feeling and when did you wake up?" "Last night but I didn't tell anyone but my brother and Shawn. I surprised everyone this morning." "I bet that must have been awesome!" she said. "It was fun." Kyle replied. Just then Bryan came out after hearing our voices. "My, my, my... take a look at this... it's good to see you Thomas!" He reached out and shook my hand. At least I can do that. "How are you?" "Sore but I wanted to come up and thank you for helping to save my life." "You are welcome. It wouldn't be the same without you and I am saying that after just having you as my neighbor for one day... but honestly Tommy its good to see you up and about. Any pain?" "Yes some but the pills you got for me a working well." "I bet, just be careful, those pills are strong. I couldn't find a lower dose so I took what I could when I got to the pharmacy." "How do you know so much about those pills Bryan?" "When I worked back at my old job before the comet hit one of the guys got zapped with a live wire and it caused him some serious pain and when I went to see him he told me all about the medication the doctor gave him. I learned a lot from him and kept that knowledge with me so I would never let that happen to me. You know... getting zapped, not the medical part so much." "Oh, said Kyle... what did you do?" "I was an electrician. After I left home, ya know Ben and all... I went out west and got lucky. I learned the job as an apprentice for a year and then a great, great man hired me about three weeks before the comet hit and I was thankfully under ground when it happened and I survived." "Wow, that's some story, Kyle said. So you can work on anything electrical?" "Pretty much so... I even learned a little plumbing too." "So does that mean if the power goes out I can come get you and we can try and get it back at the power station?" I asked. "Sure we can try Tommy but no promises. We can try anything as long as we are safe but today most of that is computerized otherwise we would have lost power here a long time ago. Most of the computers programs are almost self taught on how to route and reroute the power through the main grid. This way if something bad happens it will try to find another route to send the juice through." "Now I understand how we kept power after a few storms came through during the summer. It makes sense to me now." "I bet Tommy. Believe me it's not a fool proof system it can still go down next week or even in five minutes. But mostly we should be okay for a while." "But like Kyle asked Bry... if the power goes out can you do anything about it?" "I am not totally sure but I can always try." "Good, that makes me feel a lot better knowing at least someone has some electrical skill." "Okay enough about that. You want to come in and sit?" "Sure." I said. "Good, let's go into the kitchen boys I have some hot chocolate I was just about to pour when you knocked." We followed her in and I cautiously sat on one of the stools that were at the marble centerpiece in the kitchen. Kyle sat next to me and Kate brought us each a mug of hot chocolate. "Thanks Kate... so if you don't mind me asking, any word on Ryan while I was hurt?" "Very little I am afraid. He has come out, eaten, and talked very little to any of us outside of important things. Kate said. Bryan tried to talk with him in his room about Todd but he asked as politely as possible not to discuss it." "Politely?" I asked. "Yes. One unusual thing that he has showed since the blow up that night and since Todd hasn't returned is when he talks he has been extremely polite and well mannered. It's really odd and the total opposite of what happened that night Tommy." "Yeah it sure is." I said. "Maybe we can do something now?" Kyle said. "No not yet KY, I want to talk with Todd before we move on this. It's only fair." "Okay bro. you know what's best." "Thanks KY." "Tommy not that I am trying to be a smart ass but I have to ask...have you and Kyle always gotten along this well?" "Yes Bryan, we have a great respect and love for each other and as strange as it seems to other people every time I explain this... we hardly ever fought or argued... I mean don't get me wrong... growing up we occasionally had our moments where we wanted to kill one another but most of the time...it was great." "Wow, how interesting." Both of them said... in a way. "So Kyle you and Tommy were close back then?" "Very. We talked about a lot of private things and shared stuff too that most families don't. The only reason I know is because most friends told us about how different we were when they saw us together. We have both heard it over and over about `how different you two are' to the point where we just laugh it off now and just do our brotherly thing." "Totally amazing. Kate said, and here I am hearing all this and growing up with my brothers and sisters all we did was fight, argue and try to out do one another. You two are the exact opposite. That's so sweet." "Um yeah okay Kate... Bryan said. Enough with the mushy stuff before you chase both of them away." We laughed at his comments and even though they were kinda funny she still gave him the `look' and he snickered at her. We chatted a little more about things and it was time to get back before the others issued a RED ALERT about us missing. "We better go before something happens and they actually start missing us." Kyle said. "Thanks for the hot chocolate and the chat." I said as I slowly got up. "Are you okay Tommy?" "Oh yeah just gotta go slow for now but I am doing okay I promise." We headed to the door with both of them following and Bryan opened the door to let us go and it was snowing just as I expected it would. "Looks like winter is back." Kate said. "Yeah and make sure you are prepared it gets nasty up here if the storm hits just right." I said. "Thanks for letting us know and stopping over to see us. We are both very happy you are back Tommy." "Thanks." I said. We headed out after a quick wave and Kyle and I made small talk on the way back down the hill in the snow. "At least I feel a little bit better about things now KY knowing he has an electrical background." "Yeah I thought about that a few times TJ, what would we do if we lost total power but honestly right now I don't care, I just want to be with you for a while and enjoy things again. It's like a fresh start." "I know Kyle, I know." We walked into the house and got bombed with questions from Shawn and Jon about where we went as a few others stood around watching us get yelled at. "Geeze we went next door!" I said to them. "You could have told us! We were starting to worry you were gone for an hour or more from when Shawn came to get me and ask me where you were." "Sorry, okay? I just needed time alone with my brother." "I understand TJ but please next time just tell one of us so we don't panic." "Okay Jon I promise we will let someone know if we leave." "So what happened while you were gone, I mean did you go next door or just for a walk?" "We went up to let them know I was awake and sorta okay now." "I bet that was fun?" Todd said as he stood a little away from us but still close enough to be part of the conversation. "It was okay Todd. We are going to talk as soon as I am done here so don't go far." "Good, because I have a few things I need to clear up." He said. "So what else happened while you were there TJ?" Shawn asked. "Not too much we had some hot chocolate and it started snowing again." "I love the snow this time of year...Shawn said. It's getting close to Christmas now too!" he said with definite cheer in his voice. "I know cutie and I want to find us a huge smelly pine tree to put up in one of the rooms and make the place smell like is used to around our house during the holidays. The only question is where?" "That sounds great...DJ said as he walked over. I heard your voice and I wanted to see how you are." "Good DJ thanks. Have you told them at the farm yet?" "Yeah actually Cameron called me this morning wanting to know how you were and he was very happy to hear that you were awake. He said to tell you that his brothers said a prayer for you and that they can't wait to see you too." "Tell them thanks when you talk to them." "Actually Tommy I wanted to talk to you about that." "Oh, do you want privacy or do you just have something to ask?" "It's sorta private I could use a minute of your time in private." "Sure. I looked at everyone else. If any of you want to talk I will be in my room but I do need to see Todd, Caleb, and Zack in that order so you guys stick around." By this time the entire clan was within ear shot so when I spoke just about all of them heard me. "KY we are done so I am gonna head up and start getting things back in order." "Sure bro, I am going to take care of some stuff myself so I'll see you later." I brushed his hair and headed to the steps afterwards. Jon followed me as did Shawn and DJ. I had my own entourage as I headed upstairs. At the top I looked at them. "You guys gonna follow me around all day?" "Yup, said Shawn... until I get tired of having you back." I looked at Jon as he and DJ kinda chuckled at Shawn's words. "I will be fine cutie. You and Jon will be the first to know if something is wrong now please go find something to do while I chat with the boys and get this house back in order." "Okay TJ." they both said. I looked at DJ and he followed me into the room. I went and sat on my leather swivel chair and he sat on the bed a few feet from me. "What's on your mind Devin?" "Wow you haven't called me that since I got here." "I know I just wanted to bust you a little." He smiled, sweet smile... amazing looking dimples came out for show when he did that and just made the rest of his face stunning to view. My heart melted like it did so many times before when I saw his awesome cuteness come out. Freaking lucky Cameron!! "Tommy I just wanted to talk to you about Zack and then Cameron and ask your advice." "Okay how about Zack first, he should be easy to talk about." "Yeah he is. He was really good while you were away from us and he showed real concern when you got shot. He behaved well and actually showed some manners after he was let go from his room." "Really... so when I talk to him later I can be sure that he has gotten better?" "From what I can tell he has been. I haven't heard any fighting with Jordan or anyone else." "That's good to know so that takes care of him." "Yeah now on to something more serious." He said. "Sure, is anything wrong?" "Not really wrong, I mean the boys are fine, no one is sick now and all going well from what I have heard but my personal relations with Cam... I wanted to ask your opinion..." "Oh... well go ahead... I am honored you would come to me, you are old enough to handle this on your own." "I might be able to but since I have you it makes things so much easier. It's good to have you to talk to. Anyway...we are getting closer, ya know, to the point where I want to spend more time with him but I don't know how to do this." "Do what? You mean move in there or something like that?" "No... no! That definitely won't happen. I care a lot about him and might even... love him Tommy... he paused as he had difficulty in spitting those words out. But I can't live there its just way too boring. After a few days I don't know what to do with myself... I just wish there were some way he could get away for a while so I could be with him and not have to worry about Chase or Chance fighting, banging on the door or just being normal ball busters... they know what we are doing or at least want to do when his door is shut... but all that and the farm make it almost impossible to... he lowered his head and almost seemed to be embarrassed to say it. To... ya know... do it!" I smiled at him. "I can do one or two things for you." "Really, you have ideas?" "Sure. If the weather holds up and I feel good enough to drive we can either bring the boys here for a few days so you have your private time or I can go there and Cameron can come here for a day or two." "That's awesome Tommy but you can't stay there for that long it's not fair to the others back here. You just got back from all that and I couldn't be that selfish." "That's nice of you to think of the guys DJ but occasionally I can use some time away from here ya know." "Oh, I didn't think about it that way." "Believe me when things are `normal' here there are times I want to run away and it might work or like I said we can bring Chase and Chance here to visit for a few days." "That might work for now, its probably best that Cam stays at the farm or you stay there with them so the animals get taken care of properly." "I know. So you decide how you want to handle things, if you can't `do it' with the other two haunting you guys and I will help as much as I can." "Ya know Tommy I wish I could hug you. You give such great advice sometimes." "Tell you what... I will hold you to that hug big boy... I seem to remember wanting to get closer to you in the beginning but I will leave that alone for now." "I know Tommy but I just didn't feel right about it then. After being with Cam and learning a little about sex it just doesn't bother me like it did when you found me. I still remember all that stuff though. How you treated me and what happened the morning I woke up in your bed. I was so embarrassed back then I just wanted to die that morning." "Yeah things have changed some since then." "To the point where you are my family now, you and Cam... and..." He stopped quickly. "And what DJ?" "I was just thinking of that morning when I woke up and couldn't get rid of my hard-on. I almost... he looked at me. I almost let you touch me but I couldn't get over Robert, his miserable touch, and the way he took advantage of me! My total embarrassment, no family, and all the pain Robert caused me... I just didn't have the balls to let anyone get close then. I just wanted to thank you Tommy for being there, for helping me find Cam and most of all for not pushing me that morning into something I might have regretted. When you were shot and I found you or I was the first one out there, I almost died. I saw you lying there and the blood and all I thought was... no he isn't gonna die... I won't let him die!" I was seeing a new side of DJ, a more grown up side and definitely a more open side of him. He looked at me and a tear rolled down his face. "Tommy I don't mean to cry but I remember what you told me that night and I hope nothing has changed... your feelings that is." "Not one thing DJ... you are still a good guy at heart, way cute and hot!!! Like I said that first night and..." I paused not wanting to over do it. "And what Tommy?" he said wiping the tear away. "And I better stop before I say something I shouldn't." He smiled. "You know I'm not stupid Thomas. I know you wanted a piece of me that morning and I almost gave in and you are looking at me that same way now... don't tempt me... I have grown up a little bit since then and I also have gotten to know you a lot better too." "So... what does that mean Devin?" "Will you stop calling me that?" "It's your name though..." I said totally sarcastic. "I know but I hate... well not hate, please Tommy just DJ, okay?" "Sure pal." "It means that I have thought about that morning a few times. I know what happens in this room and in this house Tommy. I hear the boys talk and sometimes I almost feel left out." "Really? Even with Cameron so close? So is all the talk you hear bad?" "Hell no, it's hot! He laughed. I almost feel, like I said left out like I said. Especially when I can't get to Cam that fast. I have thought about coming to see you a few times but I just didn't know how to do it. I feel like I might be betraying Cam and at the same time I want to feel... he paused, cleared his throat and looked at me. A serious look now on his adorable face... I feel like I want to be loved. Maybe by you even though I care so much about Cam... I just feel so confused at times almost like my heart is aching for something I can't really put into words! And now since I almost lost you and I was able to pay you back a little for all you have done for me... I just wanted to... I guess tell you that even though I am with Cam... I sorta... well..." "Its okay DJ you don't have to say it I get the point." "I am sure you get something from what I am saying but maybe not exactly what I mean..." he paused almost like he did that morning... embarrassed again? "Look DJ its okay. You don't owe me anything. Not then or now. Its sweet that you are thinking about it though and I feel like a million bucks knowing that its been on your mind ..." now I was feeling a little awkward. "On my mind? Even more since you were lying there like that. I saw you and thought about how you, our strong leader, our strength, and caretaker were out and totally helpless... I'm sorry Tommy I don't mean to make it like you are...perfect." "Don't worry about it DJ I understand where you are coming from and it actually feels good to know all this." "Let me finish okay?" "Sure, sorry." I said. "I wanted to come to you a few times; again like I said before... just to tell you how happy I am being here. Having friends now that are open minded... I wanted you to know how much you mean to me... Tommy I don't think love would be the proper word but you really are special to me and seeing you on the steps made me think and I promised myself that Cameron or not when you woke up I was going to come in here and let you know that even if we are only a few months apart in age I look up to you and respect you for all you do for me and all the guys. There I said it!" I was at a loss for words... a rare thing I know but DJ got me! "Thanks DJ that's just about the nicest thing anyone has ever said to me. Coming from you its really special because I have had thoughts about you too, don't get me wrong, I have had thoughts about everyone in this house (I laughed) at one time or another not all sexual... but without sounding like a total gigolo its hard to be in control and at the same time want to be with some of the guys in a special way but also know I can't show those feeling because it would disrupt the whole house. I can't just go over to any of the guys and say come on its your turn today to be my lay... ya know what I mean, it sounds a little hot, and way too harsh for any of them to have that pressure put on them and on top of it all, it sounds so damn wrong too!" "Tommy I didn't want to get you all riled up and get into some deep sexual topic even though it doesn't bother me to have this kind of discussion with you. Its actually nice knowing you trust me enough to let me in on things, like next door with the sex stuff, shooting a gun, allowing me to be responsible for disciplining Zack and even letting me drive or at least getting me close to driving and all that stuff that most of the others aren't old enough for just yet. I just wanted you to know that I respect you and wouldn't mind being with you if you ever wanted me." "We'll see DJ; I would love nothing more then to get you off! You are one hot looking guy and you do get me going when you are this close to me... but you are committed to Cam and well I wouldn't feel 100% right taking advantage of you right now... its an awesome idea but I would feel bad afterwards." Did that knock on Tommy's head do something? "Tommy you aren't taking advantage of me if I want it!" "Okay then I used the wrong word but it almost feels like I would be." "Let me decide that okay? You let me do other things so if I want to be closer to you when you feel better why can't I be. Aren't you close to more than one boy here, why can't I be too?" "Point well taken DJ! You are right. I am not one to be deciding what you can or can't do with the other guys!" "So when you feel better Tom if I want to learn from you or be with you I can?" "Sure, when you put it that way I would love to be with you. Just don't hurt Cam okay he is very... well I guess sensitive isn't the right word, maybe susceptible is better, he needs you in his life right now because of what he has done to his brothers you are more important to him then you might know! He depends on you for some of his strength." "You think so?" "I know so DJ I have talked to him so if you want to be with me that's awesome but don't hurt him, you might put him over the deep end if he even knew you were interested in me or someone else." "Wow I didn't know Tommy... now I am worried for him..." "You should be concerned for him but not worried. If I didn't think he was able to handle things I never would have let Chance and Chase stay there." "Oh, okay that makes me feel a little better." "Good now hold onto your feelings about me for a bit and if you still want to be with me when I am better, one night we will have a good time and I will see how good I can rock your world!!" We both laughed and I bet I got his juices flowing because mine were! "I bet you could..." he said. "Hasn't Cam rocked yours yet?" "Well..." "It's okay DJ if you don't want to get into personal stuff about him you don't have to." "I guess I can say that when it comes to certain parts of it he is okay but he sure doesn't have a lot of experience in a few areas." "Oh really, then maybe I will really give you a special time eventually." "Tommy I have a feeling you might give me something that scares me in a good way." "Wow word's getting around about me I see." "OH now that's just wrong!" DJ said laughing. "I am kidding!!!" "I know it's not like Shawn or any of the guys came over to me and bragged about you but honestly Tom you have to know that something was said. These guys aren't angels and word has gotten out that you know how to make a guy happy." "See that, I am a gigolo." DJ laughed again. "Maybe you are but I can't think of anyone else who I would want to learn from." "Thanks DJ." He got up and came over to me. He stood close enough that I could immediately tell he wanted something but he wasn't saying it. "You suddenly bold?" I asked. "Maybe a little bit or maybe I am just curious." "Don't get into something you aren't totally sure about DJ because if we start this now there isn't a lot I can do." "I know but..." he said nothing else as he moved a little closer and stood way over me as I sat in my chair. His crotch was just about in my face and after the talk we just had my juices were flowing and it's been a good five days since I had anything more than a hard on. I looked up at him. "This is your final warning. You are standing way too close for friendly contact now kid." He smiled at me. I looked directly at his crotch. He didn't seem to have much going on but he was close enough that I could easily start something. I thought quickly about what I should do and as usual I thought with the wrong head. I lifted my good arm/shoulder and reached out as I looked way up towards his face. I was getting a clear reading of `go for it' but there was very little I could do other then feel around. I reached out as his eyes focused on my hand I was inches away from the outside of his jeans as my fingers closed in on where I thought his cock would be. I gave him one more look before I touched his pants. "You sure?" I asked. He nodded yes. "You know I can't do a lot." "Yes Tommy I know but you are already doing more then you know." I looked back at his groin and moved my hand another inch closer. Mentally I wanted this but I also wanted him to go because I couldn't do everything I was thinking about. I moved my arm once more and felt the outside of his jeans on my fingertips. I ran my fingers over a little bit of a lump and heard him gasp. "Guess I found my mark." "Oh yeah! He swallowed hard. You found it perfectly." I rubbed up and down a few times and saw him start to stretch out his jeans in the spot I was running my fingers over. "Oh man Tommy that is some feeling you are giving me!" he said in a low voice. I pushed a little more and he pushed back towards me. I could now easily make out the indentation of his hardness in his jeans with my fingers. I ran them over the bump once more. He was pretty close to being stiff from what I felt on my fingertips. "Tommy?" There was banging on my door. "Hey Tommy, come on man how long do I have to wait to talk to you?" "That sounds like Todd." I said to DJ. He backed off as I lowered my hand. As he got to a safe distance I yelled out. "Come on in Todd." He opened the door and walked in. "You know I have been waiting... he saw DJ standing there and immediately stopped talking. I'm sorry guys I didn't know... really Tommy I didn't know someone was in here." "You have met DJ?" "I have seen him around but no not really met." "Well Todd this is DJ one of the older boys that lives here." DJ gave him a look. It wasn't nasty but it certainly wasn't friendly. After all he just got interrupted in the beginning of what could have been a really hot moment. "Look I don't know what you two were talking about but I really am sorry I thought you were alone and I was tired of waiting. I'll go now and come back when you are free." "No, I said. I am free now. DJ was just about to go. I looked at him. We will finish this at another time DJ we were all but done right?" "Yes just about finished." He said with a look of disappointment on his face. "I'll talk to you later then DJ you know how to find me if you don't get what you want." He looked at me and understood completely. He turned and walked out and as he shut the door he smiled at me. I have a feeling he might be back later. "I'm really sorry about that Tommy I didn't know..." "Look Todd if something were wrong I would have chased your ass out of here immediately so just relax and have a seat we do need to talk." "Yeah I really need to talk to you I have been waiting for five days now and I need to talk to Ryan badly." "How long have you felt this way?" "A few days now, I am still mad at him but we are never going to get past this if we don't talk about it. I don't know how he feels Tommy but I am tired of sleeping on the couch if nothing else I want my bed back or a bed." "Okay then we can go over later if you don't mind because I was just there an hour ago and I don't want to over do it my first day back from the dead." "Please don't put it that way Tommy I have been worried sick over you since you got shot. I saw you lying there and all I thought about was you not making it and what would happen next. I know we haven't known each other long but you made me feel a lot better about myself in the night we spent together then I have since this whole thing happened and everyone went away." "Okay Todd just relax I didn't mean anything by it." "I know but things aren't good so anything bad bothers me. If you knew me you would understand Tommy." "Then how about you take the time and sit with me and tell me about who you are so I can get to know you better." "I guess I can do that, after all it's not every day a total stranger takes me into his house and I let him kiss me and touch my dick the right away." I laughed. "I bet you are right about that." "So what do you want to know Tommy?" "Tell me about yourself, about your family, you and your brother, what you like, dislike and all that. I am curious and love to know about the boys in my life." "Mmmmm, okay well, you know I lived back in Minnesota and you already know about my twin Ryan. He isn't really a bad kid Tommy but I guess all this gay crap has confused him. We were close back at the mall and even closer growing up. He is a minute older then I am and as you could probably tell a little more outspoken then I am. I was always sorta quiet and he has the big mouth." "Any other brothers or sister?" I asked. "Yeah we were a decent sized family. I had two sisters and two older brothers. The girls were younger Missy and Meredith. They were five and seven. My older brothers were Peter and David. Peter was 15 and David was in college and around 21. I always forgot exactly because he was out of the house for two years now at college most of the time. He came home for the holidays but mostly he was at college all the time." "Where was the college Todd?" "He went to Southern Cal. He was in his third year, majoring in engineering last I knew." "So then he wasn't here when the comet hit?" "No Tommy why... he stopped and thought for a second. Tommy are you thinking about what I suddenly am thinking?" "Probably Todd, that's why I asked if he was here." "So you think there is a possibility that David might still be alive out in California?" "Why not. I mean it's a different place and anything could have happened that far away. Did he have a cell phone?" "Yes, I think Ryan might know the number if not it was written down on the board back home. Maybe one day we can go get it." "That's a long ride for a phone number of someone who you aren't totally sure about." "I know Tommy but what if he is alive?" "How long were you and Ryan home after you survived the comet?" "Maybe a week, we were getting hungry and I was kinda scared so we decided to go visit the mall and get what we wanted. When we got there we met Kate and she told us we could stay and well the rest is pretty boring... at least at the mall, that part is. But I would love to know if Davie is still alive Tommy." "I can't say for sure but if you guys were home for at least a week and he didn't call then I would guess he isn't alive but I don't want to upset you since I got your hopes up." "Nah, I'm not upset. I got over that a while ago. I am more curious then upset that maybe, just maybe one of my brothers other than Ryan could be alive." "Then if you are lucky Ryan might've remembered his cell number." "Maybe but I don't know since we aren't talking now." "That is something you can talk to Ryan about. Maybe it will bring the two of you together or at least give both of you some hope about him." "Yeah I can't wait to talk to him about that but first I have to get past the fact that he hates me because I am gay." "Okay let's not dwell on that until we can talk to him. You don't know if he hates you! Maybe this time away has softened him up some and he might actually miss you now." "Yeah maybe." He said sounding totally dejected. I had to get him up again. "Okay tell me more... how about mom and dad?" "Mom was sweet. She always took extra special care of us because we were twins. She took good care of all of us but we always seemed to get what we wanted because we were the `twins' and for some reason that meant something." "Really so what would you get that the others wouldn't?" "Well my mom, her name was Danni; she would pick us up a small gift or something that the others didn't always get. Or if we went shopping with her she would buy us a soda and tell us not to tell the others and laugh about it. For some reason we just got a lot of small things the others didn't get." "Sweet, how about your dad?" "Dad was cool... even though he worked hard to keep everyone dressed and fed the six of us could be a handful but he always found a way to spend time with us. His name was David too like my older brother." "Oh so your brother is a junior?" "Yeah David John Peterman Jr. my dad was David John Peterman Sr. Davie always used to brag to us that he was in charge when dad wasn't home because he had the same name. When we were really young like five and under he watched us sometimes and we had a blast with him." "So your oldest brother was really good to you two?" "Yeah, the best. I hope we might be able to call him if Ryan has his number saved." "Did either of you have a cell?" "Yes we both did but I didn't bring mine. Ryan might have I never searched his backpack or never thought about asking since we were always together." "It sure looks like we might have found something for both of you to talk about other then the gay stuff." "Yeah Tommy thanks so much you did it again." "Did what Todd?" "Cheered me up and gave me hope that something could go right." He came over to me and wanted to give me a hug but I told him to be careful so he just touched my good shoulder and wasn't sure what else he could do since my head was sore and so were my arm and back. There wasn't a lot of me that could be hugged for a while. "So when I get better you can give me a hug. Save it for now okay?" "Sure Tommy, you bet I will save it. Maybe we can even do something special together again." "You really enjoyed that?" "Hell yeah. No one ever touched me like that before and the feeling you gave me... well it was all I thought about the first few days after that happened to you. It was kinda some of what kept me going. I have you to thank for that and I will never forget it even if I do move back next door Tommy. I really want to stay close to you if you don't mind." "Nope don't mind one bit cute boy." He was beaming now. It sure didn't take much to get him up and excited. "I love it when you call me cute Tommy." He said as he smiled far and wide. "Well it's the truth Toddster!" "I'm gonna go Tommy and give you some time to relax but I will come up later and then maybe we can go over and see Ryan." "That's fine... maybe he might come here and we can talk too." I said. "Why would you think that?" "Because I have an idea. If he is really upset about what happened and he really misses you then just maybe we can get Bryan or Kate to convince him to come here so we can work this out." "Damn Tommy you really are smart but I don't know... he is pretty stubborn." "Yeah and probably feeling very alone right about now. You have been here. He has been there and not talked much to any of them so we have a chance." "How do you know so much about how he is over there?" "Simple I talked to Kate and Bryan while I was there before. I got some information about him and I have been thinking that maybe, just maybe he might be in a forgiving mood after how he treated you and waiting this long." "That would be totally awesome Tommy can we call over there now?" "Sure Todd, grab my cell, it's on the counter over there." I pointed in the direction and he quickly went to get it for me. He grabbed it and ran it over to me and I called Bryan. After he picked the phone up I told him a little of what I wanted and asked him if he would go talk to Ryan and ask him if he would be interested in talking to Todd over here in private. He told me he would ask and call me back when he had an answer. I hung up and filled Todd in. We sat and waited for my cell to ring since Bryan told me he would call me right back. To be continuned... dwednomail@hotmail.com Next up: I suppose I will continue working on Chapter 9 of BT its a little late and behind Tunnel and Tunnel is easier to get together so... we'll see but... if its chapter 9 it will be catch up time for all of you and some added stuff thrown in. IF its Chapter 78 then expect some kind of surprise... brothers could make up and a lot more. Till then... keep reading. Dwedno.