Last Chance High - 7. Chapter 7

Marc, Alex and Jack were sitting in their usual spot on the stone bench in front of the school. Marc hadn’t slept well last night. Even after easing his frustration in the shower (twice), he still couldn’t stop thinking about Toni. His black sheets and the way those track pants left little to the imagination. He was in zombie mode this morning, barely even noticing his friends around him. So when he felt a gentle hand on his shoulder, he jumped, landing (un)gracefully on his ass in the grass. Alex and Jack fell over laughing.

Marc looked up to scowl at them, “What the hell guys?”

“Sorry Marc, I didn’t mean to startle you.” Marc turned towards the new voice. His face burning when he saw Toni standing behind the bench trying not to laugh. “I called your name, three times.”

He scrambled to his feet, “Umm... it’s okay. What’s up?”

He tried to sound casual, like he hadn’t just screamed like a girl. Toni handed Marc a piece of paper. Confused, and still shaking off the embarrassment, Marc stared at the paper. It took him a minute to realize what it was.

“She signed it?” Marc looked back up at Toni, a grin stretched across his face.

“Yea, she did. I guess you have a way with parents.” Toni smirked, “You must have a silver tongue Marc Townsend.”

Marc blushed, he was sure Toni didn’t realize how dirty that sounded. Jumping over the bench Marc threw his arms around Toni, “Oh my God! We’re going to have so much fun! It will be awesome, I swear.”

“Uh Marc...” Toni mumbled.

Toni pulled back, his eyes wide. “Oh shit, sorry, umm right. Yea. Sorry.” Stepping away, he looked at his feet. “Fun. Yea, good.”

Toni laughed, “Sometimes you remind me of a hyper guinea pig.”

Alex and Jack started laughing again. Leaning on each other for support and making squeaking noises. Marc had forgotten they were there. He knew it should have been upsetting that his friends were mocking him. In front of his crush no less. But how could anyone be upset with a sound as beautiful as Toni Mancini’s laughter ringing in their ears? Marc just smiled.

“I’ll give this to Mr. Stark. See you in gym Toni.”

Toni smiled back, “See you later, Marc.

+X+

To say Toni was nervous would be an understatement; He was petrified. From the time he arrived at school to the time he headed towards the bus he had changed his mind countless times. And now standing at the edge of the parking lot he had no idea what he wanted to do.

“Toni!” He turned and watched as Simon, Isabelle and Madison came towards him.

“Hey guys.” Toni tried to sound as excited as they looked. Simon slung his arm around Toni’s shoulders.

“You ready for this?”

“I'm not sure.”

Isabelle snaked her arm around his waist, “Oh, it will be fun, don’t worry. And these guys always put on a show.” Toni tensed until they released him and moved towards the bus. He couldn't help but remember Marc was the only one who seemed to notice. With one last deep breath Toni followed behind, pausing at the top of the stairs. He tried to decide if it was good luck or bad; there was only one seat left.

Marc waved, “Toni, over here!” A big grin on his face.

Toni smiled and moved down the aisle to where Marc was sitting in the back. The older boy stood and gestured for him to slide in then sat down next to him.

"I'm glad you decided to come." Marc had slid down in his seat. He leaned close so his voice could be heard over the voices of their friends laughing and joking.

"Well, I figured if I didn't you'd just show up at my place and kidnap me."

Marc stared wide-eyed and slack-jawed. Toni laughed at the near horror on his face, "Chill Marc, I was joking."

Marc blinked, a small smirk crept onto his face. "No, that can't be it. Toni Mancini doesn't have a sense of humor." Marc winked at him, Toni couldn't help but smile back. Maybe he could do this.

x+x

Bad traffic made it a longer then expected bus ride, but Toni was still disappointed when it was over. The boys had spent the time sitting low in their seats, their arms brushing against each other. It wasn't as if the magic of a long bus ride eroded away their walls. Suddenly allowing them the ability to share their deepest thoughts and desires. They talked about unimportant things like movies, music and video games. And of course their shared interest in swords and excitement over the convention. But to Toni it was a very special time. After a while Marc yawned and crossed his arms over his chest. He snuggled onto Toni's shoulder and fell asleep. Toni stiffened and almost pushed his crush away. When he looked down at his sleeping face and just couldn't bring himself to do it. He glanced around the bus; no one was paying any attention to them. Isabelle and Simon were snuggled up talking in whispers. Madison had her headphones in and was bobbing her head in time to the beat. Alex had his arm around Daphne as they talked over the seat to Breanna. Toni sighed and looked back down at Marc; his messy black hair was hanging over his eyes and he had a goofy grin on his face. Before he even released what he was doing Toni had reached out and brushed his hair back. It was thick and soft; Toni had to resist the urge to bury his hands in it. He felt his face heat up and bile rise in his throat like he was going to throw up. Marc made a small noise in the back of his throat; it almost sounded like a soft moan, and snuggled in closer to Toni. Still no one seemed to notice the two boys. Toni leaned his head on the window and closed his eyes, willing his heart to stop racing and his breath to even out. And most important he tried to control to quick burn in his groin that started when Marc moaned at his touch.

Toni roused when the bus lurched and Mr. Stark bellowed something about staying put. Marc started to shift as he woke. Toni noticed at some point while they were sleeping he had linked his arm through Toni's. And he had drooled a little on Toni's shoulder. Now awake, Marc pulled away and wiped his eyes with a yawn. Toni thought it was the most adorable thing he had ever seen.

Marc glanced at him, "Why are you looking at me like that?"

"You drool when you sleep." Toni gestured to the small damp spot on his shirt. Marc blushed, he looked mortified. Toni smiled, "Don't worry; it will be our little secret." Marc returned his smile; his cheeks still a little red.

+X+

Toni didn't know how have hadn't thought of it before. Standing with three other boys in a hotel room with only two beds he realized he had been an idiot. The other guys didn't seem to notice the math didn't add up. Marc and Simon were gathering their stuff and getting ready for their competition. Alex had stretched out on the bed chatting about dinner. Toni stood awkwardly by the window, he didn't want to be the one to bring up sleeping arrangements.

In 20 minutes Mr. Stark collected the boys to meet the girls. They stopped at a burger joint for dinner, eating on the bus while they headed to the competition. Marc bounced around the entire time, making Toni tired just watching him. When they got to the gym those competing rushed off with Mr. Stark to sign in leaving the others to find seats.

To say Toni was impressed would be an understatement. For a bunch of high school kids, they wielded their swords like trained soldiers. Simon's large size and heavy muscle tone made him powerful. The competitors had trouble holding on and staying put. Madison was ruthless and fierce and Breanna was super quick. Toni found himself feeling a little proud of his friends. Before the last event, where Marc would face another top competitor, they had a short break. The group had gathered in the hall talking.

Toni stood away from the group; he smiled as he watched his friends talk. He was glad he decided to come. He felt a hot breath on the back of his neck and a harsh whisper in his ear.

"Hey there lover boy." Toni jumped and spun around. The boy behind him was tall and muscular. Not as big as Simon, but still almost twice Toni's size. Toni felt his hands get clammy and his breath hitch. His name was Larry Daniels, and he spent Toni's freshman year making his life a living hell. Toni stepped back, ready to bolt. His mind was reliving every beating and every prank. Daniels laughed and walked towards Toni, backing him against the wall.

Daniels was so close Toni could hear his whisper, "How's my favorite little faggot? I've really missed you little one, I’ve got no one to beat on now.”

Toni tensed and glanced over to where his friends were standing. He couldn’t decide if he wanted them to step in or not.

“Toooonniiii...” He breathed in his ear, sliding his hands up his hips towards his ribs. Toni slapped his hands away and shoved against his chest. Daniels stepped back and laughed, “The little kitten grew some claws.” Suddenly Daniels stumbled back slamming into the wall opposite Toni.

“What the hell do you think you’re doing?” Marc sounded furious and he had a vicious fire in his eyes. Toni froze in place. Daphne and Isabelle crowded around him, hugging him and asking if he’s okay. Marc was facing off with Daniels, Simon and Alex one step behind him.

“Hey hey now,” Daniel held his hands up as if to show they were empty. Marc clenched his fists at his sides, “Nothing to worry about buddy. Just two old friends catching up. Isn’t that right little kitten?” Daniels winked at Toni over Marc’s shoulder, causing Toni to flinch and glance at the ground. Marc glanced back to see Toni’s reaction. Marc had never seen him so tense, his eyes filled with fear and tears.

“Stay away from him! Don’t you ever touch him again!” He growled. Daniels didn’t even flinch, in fact he laughed.

“Oh, I don’t think he minds all that much. Do you little kitten?”

Daniels let out a loud shout. Marc had grabbed him by his shirt and slammed him against the wall. Now Daniels looked scared.

“If you come near him again, it will be the last thing you ever did.” Marc spat out, quiet but fierce.

“What are you, his new boyfriend?” Daniels mumbled back. Marc didn’t answer, just slammed him again.

“You understand me?”

“Yea, yea fine. I get it.” Daniels stumbled as Marc released him then scurried away. Shooting Toni a murderous look before he ran off.

Marc stood where he was for a minute taking deep breaths. His heart was racing and he was seeing red. It had taken everything he had not to pound that guy into the ground. He tried to calm himself; he was no help to Toni this way. Marc jumped at the hand on his shoulder.

“Toni.” Alex whispered, gesturing back to the small boy who was still frozen in spot on the ground. His face ashen white.

Marc pushed passed the others, knelt next to him and put his hand on top of his, “Toni? You okay?” the boy didn’t answer. Marc saw his hands were gripping his jeans, his knuckles white. His eyes were filling with tears he wasn’t willing to shed. Marc pulled Toni to his feet and led him away, gesturing the others to stay put. He pulled Toni into the change room, locking the door behind him and led him to the back row. Marc sat on the floor, pulling Toni down with him to sit between his legs. He pulled Toni into his chest, one arm around his waist the other stroking his hair. Toni was still stiff against him, his breaths shallow and uneven.

“It’s okay Toni, let it out. I got you. I won’t ever let him touch you again. There’s no one here but me, I got you now.”

Marc mumbled in his ear, gentle and soothing. Toni sagged against him, his hands gripping Marc’s shirt and the tears spilled out. Marc had no idea how long they sat there, Toni is crying in his arms, and he didn’t care. He was furious, and sickened at the thought of that boy putting his hands on Toni. After what he saw and what the bully had said to him, he knew exactly why Toni had been bullied. Toni sniffled and wiped his eyes, pulling back.

“What about your fight?”

“Honestly, I couldn’t care less. Are you okay?”

“Besides being mortified. Yea, he didn’t hurt me.”

“Toni...” Marc reached up and brushed Toni’s hair away from his face. For once Toni didn’t pull away or stiffen at the intimate touch, but he still wouldn’t look at Marc.

“I really don’t want to talk about it.”

“Okay. But if you change your mind, I’m here. I’ll always be here.” Toni nodded. “You ready?”

“Yea, I think so.” Marc stood up and led Toni over to the sinks where Toni washed his face. He was still a little shaky and his eyes red. He took a deep breath and nodded to Marc. Marc gave him a small encouraging smile. After unlocking the door Marc took Toni’s hand and led him through the door. Their friends rushed towards them down the hall, Toni panicked and pulled his hand out of Marc’s. Marc looked at him, shocked and maybe a little hurt.

“I’m sorry.” Toni mumbled and stepped away, eyes on the floor. Marc didn’t get a chance to respond because their friends swarmed. Toni looked like he was about to bolt again. Marc stepped up behind him, but was careful not to touch him.

“Stop!” Everyone went silent, and looked at Marc. “Just leave him alone alright. Let’s go find out what’s happening with this fight.” His friends looked like they wanted to argue, but decided against it. Together they walked back down the hall towards the gym, where Mr. Stark waited. Marc split from the crowd and joined Mr. Stark to talk to the officials.

Daphne slipped her hand in Toni’s, but didn’t say anything. The others tried to keep up a light conversation around them. Soon Marc returned with Mr. Stark.

“Normally, Marc would have to forfeit his fight. But his opponent said he would rather have the fight than win by default, and it was only 10 minutes. So we’ve got five then Marc’s in the ring.” Mr. Stark spoke in his usual brisk manned. He spared Toni a glance, as if deciding to confront him. Deciding against it, he walked away without further comment.

His friends cheered, but Marc didn’t look so happy.

“What’s wrong Marc?” Alex slapped him on the back, “You're still in, this is a good thing.”

“My opponent. It’s him.” Toni’s head shot up and he finally met Marc’s eyes, “That’s why he didn’t want me to give up.”

“Are you worried?” Alex asked him.

“I’ve fought him before, and won. But I have a feeling he’s not too worried about the rules right now.”

Toni started to shake his head, his voice soft, “He’s never cared about rules. I know him; he’s out for blood Marc.”

Marc stepped towards Toni with a small sad smile on his face. He was surprised that the younger boy didn’t pull away when Marc put his hand on Toni’s shoulder. Though his cheeks turned red and he kept his eyes on the floor.

“Don’t you worry about me Antonio, don’t you dare.” He squeezed gently, “If he wants blood, I’ll give him blood.” Toni peeked up at him, his smirk was a little wicked and his eyes had that vicious gleam to them again. His friends nodded and spoke in agreement. Toni couldn’t help but smirk himself; his friends sounded a little blood thirsty themselves. Because they were mad, because they wanted to stand up for him. Toni wondered if they would still want to stand up for him if they knew. Marc looked down and winked at Toni, he felt his face flush again. His friends led the way towards the gym as the officials called Marc’s name and Larry Daniels to the floor. Marc still had his hand on Toni’s shoulder.

“Don’t get yourself in trouble Marc. It’s not worth it, trust me. I’ve tried that, it doesn’t work.”

Marc sighed, “I want to hurt him Toni, really hurt him.”

“Why?” Toni whispered.

“I thought you’d figure that out by now.” He replied; his hand sliding down along Toni’s back making him shiver. With a small smile Marc jogged away to get ready for the fight, strapping on his protective gear.

Toni sat in silence with his friends as the boys entered the ring. His friends whooped and hollered to Marc, encouragement and wishes for him to kick ass. Daniels pulled Marc close when they shook hands and whispered something in his ear. Marc’s face twisted in anger, he pulled his hand away and glared hard.

As fierce as Madison had been in her match she had nothing on the way these two boys came at each other. Their dulled blades clashing rang in the room. Toni reached over and took Daphne’s hand gripping it tightly, he was glad she gripped his back.

x+x

Marc glared at Daniels as they shook hands before their match. He was trying to get a hold on his anger, but the thought of this guys hand on his Toni made his blood boil. Daniels pulled him close and whispered in his ear.

“Your boyfriend cries like a little bitch Townsend.”

Marc stiffened and pulled away. Now he was seeing red. He was going to kill this boy. He lifted his dulled blade and spun it once, wishing it was sharp enough to draw blood for real. With his adrenaline pumping he engaged. It wasn’t a long fight, but it was fierce. The crowd was loving it, but all Marc could think about was the gnawing need to protect Toni. Marc remembered Daniels running his hands up Toni’s side, the boy huddled against the wall in fear. It made Marc sick. He could only imagine the way he had tortured Toni in the past. He pushed hard and Daniels tripped over his feet and went down. Marc lunged and put his dulled blade against the boy’s throat, wishing he could run him through.

“You better watch your step, Daniels. If you ever as much as come near him again, I’ll kill you. I swear to whatever Gods are listening. I will kill you.” Marc whispered before the officials pulled him back. He dropped his sword and lifted his hands in surrender. Daniels must have believed him because he looked like he was going to piss himself. “Sorry folks, got a little carried away.” Marc smiled his trademark grin, the picture of innocence. Marc reached out towards Daniels as if to help him up. Daniels allowed Marc to pull him to his feet, Marc patted him on the back kindly. “Great fight man, really.” To anyone who didn’t know him Marc looked like a calm and collected athlete after a great competition. But Toni could see the slow burn still in his eyes. His friends pulled Toni to Marc’s side as the officials congratulated him on his obvious win. Daniels sulked away with his coach.

The ride back to the hotel was loud. The high-schoolers were excited about the competition and the convention tomorrow. Toni sat in the back seat next to Marc, he slumped against the window watching the lights go by. He jumped as Marc slid down next to him and took his hand.

“You okay?”

Toni glanced down at their intertwined hands. He shrugged and gently pulled his hand away, turning back to the window. He couldn’t deal with Marc now. He felt confused and emotionally drained. Marc was being so kind to him, and he kept touching Toni and asking if he was okay. They were small touches, brushing his arm or bumping his shoulder. Taking his hand in a gentle yet firm grip. Toni stopped looking around to see if anyone noticed, they didn’t. Marc was being careful to keep the looks and touches away from prying eyes. Toni was just so confused. He didn’t understand, and he hated how much he wanted to cling to the older boy like he had in the change room. His face flushed as he remembered the embarrassing scene. The way he had clung to him and cried against his chest, Marc’s legs wrapped around his waist. He pulled his hood over his head and his legs up to his chest; it was going to be a long night.

When they got back to the hotel Toni headed straight to the room without a word to anyone. Marc followed behind with a quick Goodnight to the others. Simon and Alex decided to hang out in the lobby and spend some time with the girls. Toni was sitting in one of the chairs in front of the window, the lights were off. He had changed into his track pants and had his legs pulled up to his chest and his hood over his head. He didn’t even glance over when Marc came up and knelt in front of him.

“Please, talk to me Toni. I’m kind of freaking out here. I’m worried about you.” Marc pleaded, his voice was quiet but Toni could hear the panic. He ran his hand along Toni’s arm causing Toni to tense up and pull away again.

“Marc...please, I just... I can’t. Not now.”

“Okay. It’s alright; I don’t mean to push you. Why don’t you go have a shower and then you can crawl into bed. I’ll distract Simon and Alex for a while so you can have some time alone to wind down. If you need anything, anything at all, let me know.”

“I don’t need you to baby me. I’m a big boy Marc.” Toni snapped, for once he didn’t care that he sounded harsh.

“I know you don’t, trust me, I know. I’m being selfish. I just, need to do something. I’ll stop pestering you. Go, relax. I’ll distract myself another way.” Marc stood and stepped away, giving Toni a small smile. “But hey, it was quite a fight though, am I right?” Toni laughed softly. “See you later, Mac-a-Toni.”

Toni winced and glared, “Excuse me?”

“I was trying something out.” Marc shrugged, “I’ll find something else.” With a smile and a wave Marc slipped out the door.

+X+

Toni turned the water as hot as he could stand and stood under the steady stream. Marc thought it was Daniels that had Toni freaking out (yes Toni was freaking out and yes he knew Marc could tell). But Toni was used to shit like that. It was Marc that was freaking him out. He was embarrassed and ashamed and confused. He wasn’t used to people caring, friends that are willing to stand up for him. Back when the bullying started the people he called friends disappeared. They were afraid of the backlash. Needless to say, freshman year was a little more than a drag. He spent that summer at the gym and when he returned the next year decided to take matters into his own hands. He wasn’t going to allow himself to be a victim any longer. That’s when the trouble started; the suspensions and meetings with the principal. Expulsions soon followed. But always he stood on his own; he never relied on other people to fight his battles for him. But for some reason when Daniel came up behind him tonight, Toni had just frozen.

Then Marc came out of nowhere, like a knight in shining armor to the rescue. And Toni stood there and let him. But, if he was honest with himself, Marc looked great doing it. Usually Toni avoided that train of thought, but today maybe it could be the distraction he needed. He focused on how Marc’s muscles rippled under his shirt when he moved. He brought the sound of his pleading voice and those begging baby seal eyes. The fierce look in his eyes as he beat up on Daniels. He slid his hand down his body and focused on Marc.

When Toni left the bathroom after his shower the room was still quiet and dark. He crawled into the closest bed and closed his eyes.