A Ticklish Thriller - 10. Love vs Darkness

The Family

The family were still waiting to hear something, anything on their fourth youngest boy. The sound of the door opening, made everyone’s head turn, but it was only a nurse, heading home for the day. No one knew exactly what they could do to ease the tension, and fear of the unknown.

“Any word on our Angel boy?” The second he finished speaking, Dakota was greeted with Lance’s backhanded slap. The half Cherokee knew exactly what Lance was feeling, and he also knew what he’d have to do to relieve the pressure building inside his new baby brother.

“Where the FUCK were you? YOU’RE SUPPOSED TO BE PROTECTING MIKEY.” The younger man’s sudden violent reaction to the older man, had the entire family watching in shocked horror. “How the fuck, could you let him get GODDAMN FUCKING SHOT. YOU BASTARD.” This time Lance’s blow didn’t come in the form of a slap. The twenty year old pulled back, and threw one of the hardest punches he’d ever delivered.

Dakota was ready for a blow of some kind, he carefully watched Lance’s actions, and made sure his abs were tight enough to absorb the full impact of the young man’s powerful blow. However, even Dakota was shocked at the amount of sheer force and power the boy held, and unleashed.

“LANCELOT ARTHUR KNIGHT, that is enough. You apologize to your brother, and sit the fuck down this instant.” Pam’s tirade continued. “I swear, you’re not too old for me to smack the shit out of you.”

Lance spun around, and defiantly glared at his Mom. He clearly, didn’t care about any consequences of his actions. “Stay out the fuck out of this Mom. I’m having it out with this poor excuse for a cop, who’s supposed to love my brother.” From somewhere inside, his conscience was desperately trying to claw its way out from the deepening grave that hatred, and pain buried it in.

In a flash, the family matriarch was on her feet. She rapidly closed the distance between her, and youngest son. “Child, you have one second to retract your statement to me, before I knock you on your sorry ass.” Pam pulled back her arm, and was about to release it, like a slingshot. However, Dakota’s gentle grasp on her wrist, stopped the woman in her tracks.

Dakota gave Pam a look, and shook his head no. “Mama Pam, with all due respect, Lance needs to do this. He’s got so much pent up anger, fear, anxiety, and hatred the boy’s gonna blow. I’d rather he do it here, and use me as the target, than be out in public, and have a meltdown. With everything that’s happening, the family doesn’t need to deal with that. Please, allow me the pleasure of being the scapegoat, and reliever of his pressure.”

All the family were stunned by the cop’s request. They were even more stunned, when Pam relented, and gave her consent to let Lance continue.

Dakota smiled at them. Then, he turned and faced his still seething newly acquired baby brother. “Aright kid, this is the one chance you get. I know there’s a shitload more fire, and fury boiling deep inside. It’s time to let it go. Don’t hold a damn bit of it back. Let it rise, like red hot lava. It’s okay to erupt, and explode. Think of yourself as a Goddamn volcano.”

Lance’s tears rushed down his cheeks. Fire blazed in his eyes. It shined so brightly, everyone, except Dakota, backed away from the two. “HOW THE FUCKING HELL COULD SHE DO THIS. Mikey’s been nothing, but pure love, and acceptance. He doesn’t deserve this fight. Why does he have to go through this?” Suddenly, Lance let out an ear splitting, almost primal scream. Then, began delivering blow, after hammer-like blow to Dakota’s muscled body.

The raw emotion, and pain in their loved one’s voice made the entire family shut their eyes, and cringe. Outwardly, the half Cherokee showed no signs of any effect from every attack he received. However, inside was a different story. He was not only physically absorbing Lance’s released pressure, but he was also absorbing it emotionally. “Fuck, not even I’m sure I can keep this up. He’s freakin’ way more powerful than I expected. Dakota closed his eyes, and felt Mikey’s bond, somehow strengthening him. In addition, he also felt his parents sending him the energy, and shield he’d need to outlast the younger man’s attack.

Lance’s energy, and emotions were finally drained, and exhausted. The brunette gasped, and fell into his older brother’s waiting arms. Inside, he could feel his bond with Mikey, and Dakota start to rejuvenate his broken heart, spirit, and mind.

Dakota breathed a much needed sigh of relief. The power from the love inside of him grew, and extend to his new family. He turned, walked to the sofa, and placed Lance’s peaceful sleeping body on the cushions. He got down on his knees, gently brushed the younger man’s hair with his fingertips. Leaning over, Dakota softly kissed his baby brother’s damp forehead. He whispered in Lance’s ear. “Sleep in peace sweet angel. Be secure in the knowledge you’re safe, and loved.” Instantly, a soft sigh, and slight smile came across the slumbering man’s face. Dakota could see a soft glow surround Lance’s body. He silently thanked the God, Goddess, Mikey, and his parents for their aid, and comfort.

Adam, and Jai rushed to Dakota, and wrapped their arms around him. “Are you okay?” Jai asked as he and Adam dampened both of the cop’s shoulders.

“I’m fine baby bro’s. I’ve never had any siblings, but, I think I only did what any older brother would do for their younger brothers.” Looking at Adam, and Jai’s expressions made Dakota start cracking up. However, he instantly regretted that. His abs were still quite sore, and tender from Lance’s beating.

“Wait, why’d you call us baby bros? How old are you? Adam asked.

“I’m twenty-seven.” Dakota very lightly chuckled.

“I’m not sure if I’m okay with that. You might just have to break up with Mikey. I’ve always been the oldest brother.” Adam yelped, when he was grabbed around the waist, and pulled down onto the older man’s lap.

“Sorry kid, Mikey’s mine, and I’m his. I promise, I’m not gonna try and take your place as big brother.” Dakota paused, and wrapped his arms around Adam. He bent his head slightly, and kissed the younger man’s cheek. “I totally need your help. I want to learn how to be the most amazing big brother ever. Just like you are. I’ve watched how loving, and protective you are with your fiance, Lance, and Mikey.” He grinned, and started very lightly wiggling his fingers between Adam’s ribs.

The room quickly filled with the squeals, and laughter from the ticklish young man. Adam was squirming, and trying to get free from Dakota’s hold. Inside, he was soaking up the love and affection he received. “Okay, I give. You can keep seeing Mikey, and we can both be big brothers.”

The quick submission made everyone start laughing.

“Kota, what you just did for Lance….well, was amazing. I don’t think I could’ve taken that much abuse, and fury.” Adam looked into Dakota’s eyes, and saw the strain he’d been put through. Tears welled in the young men’s eyes, and they embraced. “I…I love you Kota. You’re already an amazing big brother, and mate for Mikey.”

Adam’s declaration, made Dakota’s heart soar with joy, and pride. “Thanks Adam, coming from you, that means a hell of a lot. And, look at it this way. Me being the oldest doesn’t matter, what does matter, is now you’ve got someone to lean on, besides the parents. Protecting our brothers, and my mate, isn’t solely your responsibility anymore, it’s both of ours.” The two shared another warm embrace, before Adam got up, and held his fiance.

“Dakota, would you please come over here for a minute?” Pam’s request sent a slight shiver through Dakota. He had no idea what he was about to face. He grunted, and slowly got up.

“Thank you.” Pam said, as she lovingly embraced her new son.

“For what Mama?” Inside, he felt his Mom’s approval calling Pam, Mama.

“Everything you’ve done. I realize it would have been dangerous for both Lance, and myself if you hadn’t intervened. I’m forever grateful. You’re heart, and bravery definitely cements you as our son.”

Unable to control his emotions. The strong cop burst into tears, and cried on Pam’s shoulder. He could feel her love, comforting spirit, and the fire inside.

“It’s okay baby boy, you’ve been strong enough for everyone else. It’s time you let go of your pent up emotions too. Just let it go son. You’re our son, no different from our other boys. Dakota, you’re also safe, and loved.” Pam’s warm embrace, and soothing tone eased the troubled young man.

“I can’t help it. I feel so powerless, and helpless. I’m out here, crying my eyes out, while my half of my heart’s on an operating table. Why Mikey? He’s so precious Mom, I’ve never met anyone in this world, like him. You guys come very close, but he’s just got something a little more special. I’m sorry, if that came out wrongly. I don’t want to offend, or hurt anyone’s feelings.”

“You haven’t son. You’ve just expressed this entire family’s feelings for our Mikey. All of us are special, and talented. Mikey just has, like you said, something a bit extra.” Max said as he gently rubbed Dakota’s strong back.

“Thank you, Dads, and Mama. I love you guys.” The four parents each kissed, and hugged their oldest son.

Dakota was finally able to get himself together enough to go join his brothers. He sat between Adam, and Jai who automatically had their arms around him. Dakota’s eyes were closed, so he didn’t notice Lance’s approach. The cop gasped, and slightly jumped when he felt a body land on his lap.

“I can’t even express how grateful I am to you, big bro. You sacrificed your pride, and physical safety, just so I could get some relief. I love you, so much Kota.” Lance’s tears fell on his brother’s shoulder. He wrapped his arms around Dakota’s neck, and cuddled against the warm chest. He smiled, and sighed when he felt his brothers all kissing his head. Even though he felt their love, and comfort he still yearned to feel Mikey’s embrace.

“I know baby bro, I want to feel him hugging, and kissing me too.” Dakota said with a smile.

Lance gasped, and looked at the older man. “How’d you….”

Dakota simply pointed to his heart, and gut. “That tells me everything I need to know baby boy. I love you too.”

“I’ve got some news on Mikey’s condition.”

Everyone turned, holding their breath, and waited for the doctor to continue.

“He’s gonna pull through. However, he’s very weak, and hasn’t woken up yet. We’ve got him on monitors, and are moving him to a room shortly. Once that’s done, you can see him. I’m sorry, I don’t have more than that right now.”

“That’s all we need to know at this point. Thanks.” Pam said as everyone started breathing normally, and embracing each other. Time slowly ticked by, as the collected family waited to see their Mikey. The wait felt like a lifetime, but was really thirty minutes.

“Would everyone follow me? I’m not comfortable having more than four of you at a time in with Mikey. I’ll leave it up to the family, to decide who goes in together. Just hit the call button if you need anything, or if your son’s condition changes. Again, thank you, for your patience, and understanding. I know this is a difficult time. From what I’ve been told, this is one very loved, and special young man.”

Mikey

Mikey stood in the nothingness. There were no trees, no water, of any kind, no sky, or even a ground that he could see. It was just a depressingly thick, and heavy fog surrounding him. “Where am I?” The brunette asked. The longer he stood stationary, the harder it was to see, and breathe. Slowly, the confused young man started turning in a circle, attempting to see...well, anything. Finally, after two or three turns, Mikey could see a faint path appear. It seemed to lead nowhere. Another couple minutes achingly ticked by. With each agonizing second, it got harder to breathe, and maintain coherent thoughts. Mikey gasped, and fell to his knees. It felt like an impossibly heavy weight was forcing his weak body to the bottom of the desolate fog. Somehow, he knew if he reached the fog, it would be the end of him, and everything he held dear.

“I’ve got to fight back. Must continue to hope, and try…. It’s so dark, and cold. I’m weak, and just want to give up.” It seemed all was lost, the fog was coming closer, he could feel the icy cold substance freezing his veins, and heart. The feeling of claws ripping, and tearing out his soul assaulted his distraught body. “No...I must keep fighting. I’m stronger than this. C’mon Mikey, get your ass up, and fight like hell. You want to live.” His pep talk was starting to work. The exhaustion, and pain was lessening. Finally, Mikey opened his eyes. On one side, he could see a light, starting to cut through the fog. On the other, he saw more darkness. “Need the light… I need the light.”

Just when his strength increased, Mikey heard a low, grumbling voice. It was unlike anything he’d ever heard before. He knew it was the darkness Dakota’s parents warned him was trying to drain his light. He was bombarded with the words of Janice, the constant coaxing for him to think of himself, and take a much needed eternal rest. From the other side, his ears were rewarded with the love filled melodic tones of everyone he’d ever loved, and who loved him. They were pleading, begging, and praying with every ounce of their beings for him to come back. Mikey felt the loving tears of his four parents falling on his clammy skin. Then, the warmth of his two older brothers arms, gently caressing his cheek, and kissing his forehead. The pleading in their hearts for him to wake up gave him more strength, and resolve.

The gravely voice was getting weaker. The harder he fought back, the brighter,, and warmer Mikey felt and appeared. A golden, warm glow shined from his heart. It began dispelling the darkness, and burning away the fog. Mikey could now see below him, Adam, and Jai’s worried forms. He could feel the pull of his own body, willing his spirit back into it’s flesh, and bone shell.

Just when he was about to enter his body, Mikey was suddenly being pulled back by a stronger pair of arms. Dark, shadowy chains began trying to bind him in place. Mikey closed his eyes, and used every ounce of his growing power, and light to break free. The force was starting to overwhelm the young man’s efforts. Mikey’s will was stretched, and close to breaking. Suddenly, he felt the love, and presence of the two people he was completely bonded to. A powerful surge of love, and strength coursed through Mikey’s aching muscles. In his mind, and soul he felt Lance, and Dakota connect with him. Together, the three of them were strong enough to completely destroy the chains, keeping Mikey from his earthly vessel. “YOU CANNOT WIN. I WANT TO LIVE.” Mikey yelled out from the depth of his heart, and soul. All at once, the darkness was gone, and he felt a gush of oxygen flood his lungs. He opened his eyes, and blinked. Mikey slightly turned his head to see Lance, and Dakota’s bright smiles. “I love you. Thank you for saving me. I’m just resting now, but I’m back.” After his declaration, Mikey closed his eyes, and drifted into a peaceful sleep.

When he opened his eyes, Mikey was once again in the bright valley. “Hello! Mama, Dad?” He called out.

“We’re here son, along with someone who’s been wanting to see you.” Dakota’s Mom said.

Mikey turned to the speaker. His eyes brightened, and a wide smile adorned his face. “SEAN!!” Quickly, Mikey ran over, to Sean’s spirit. He giggled, then hugged, and kissed the younger boy. “Bro, we all miss you, so much. I love you.”

Sean was beaming with joy. His spirit missed the love, and energy Mikey’s hugs possessed. “I know big brother.” His tears fell on Mikey’s shoulder. The two boys were hugged by Dakota’s parents.

“The darkness that wanted to steal your light has been lifted. You need to rest now. Just know, you have all the energy, and love needed to fulfill your destiny. We’re all proud of you, and love you Mikey, our precious angel. Take care, and we’ll always be here for you.” Dakota’s Dad said. The three spirits gave Mikey a final hug, and kiss, before floating off in the breeze.

The Family

It only took a minute or two after Lance used the call button for the nurses, and doctor to rush in the room.

“What’s going on? Is our brother okay?” Jai, and Adam asked in unison.

“He’s fine, Mikey just came out of his coma.” Dakota informed everyone. Tears streamed down his cheeks as he, and Lance were encased in a group hug.

“I’m not gonna ask what happened in there, but I do know Mikey’s awakening was because of the bond you three share.” Bryan said. He wiped his tears, and held his husband.

“Mikey is indeed out of his coma, and is resting peacefully. I’m lifting the ban on more than four people in the room. Now, I’d suggest after you all share some time together, that most of you go home, and get some rest yourselves. I know it’s early in the day, but your family’s just suffered a traumatic event. You all need time to decompress, and replenish your strength, and energy. I’ll allow one of you, maybe two to stay with my patient tonight.” The doctor paused, and embraced each family member. “I’m ecstatic, being able to relate good news. It doesn’t always turn out in a positive way.”

The family spent the afternoon visiting with Mikey as he slept. When everyone was ready to leave, it was unanimously decided that Dakota, and Lance stay. After an emotional, but happy goodbye, the three men were alone for the night.

“Kota, did we really just experience almost losing Mikey?’ Lance asked. His tears fell on Mikey’s chest as it rose, and fell.

“Yes, baby brother, we did. Are you feeling okay with what you’ve experienced. I know, it’s mind blowing.” Dakota smiled, and softly caressed both his angel’s hair.

“It’s a lot to digest, but, knowing I was part of saving my brother’s immortal soul is awesome.” The twenty year old softly kissed his older brother’s lips as he slept. It wasn’t a romantic fueled gesture, it was his pure, and innocent love for Mikey. “Kota, I don’t know how, but I know Janice is gonna try something tonight. She’s got to be livid, and desperate. They’ve been plastering her face on the screen, asking for any leads on where she’s at.”

The cop stared off in the distance, and drew a deep breath. “I feel you’re right Lance, we need to come up with a plan. I don’t have my weapon on me, but if we can surprise her, when she makes her move, we should be able to keep her from doing anymore harm.” While Mikey slept, the two men silently firmed their plan, to catch Janice. Dakota called Tony, and brought him in on their thoughts.

The brother’s foresight panned out. In the middle of the night, a nurse quietly crept into the room. She noticed the sleeping form in the bed closest to the door. After checking the other bed, and confirming it was empty, she pulled out her gun with its silencer. Making sure she didn’t wake her sleeping ex in the chair, the nurse carefully raised her gun, and took aim. However, before the gun could be fired, The firearm was forcibly wrenched from her hand. A look of shock came across Janice’s face, as she looked into Lance’s furious eyes. Before a word could be spoken, or another action made, four policemen entered the hospital room, led by Tony Knight.

“Janice Banks, you’re under arrest.” Dakota proceeded to place his cuffs on the struggling girl, while reading her rights. The furiously protesting fugitive was dragged from Mikey’s room, out of the hospital, placed in a cruiser, and taken to jail. This time, they’d make sure there was no bail, and she’d wait for her trial behind bars.

Knowing his brother was completely safe, and in good hands. Lance gave Mikey, and Dakota a kiss, then left with his Dad.

Dakota wiped his brow, and pulled the chair up to his slumbering mate. “I love you, my sweet angel.” He gasped, when Mikey grabbed his hand, and pulled it closer to him. Dakota smiled, as Mikey curled up, and started sucking his thumb, like the adorable angelic boy he is.