The Children of Light - 11. Chapter Eleven

‘He’s going to be fine Alex.’ The doctor said coming into the waiting room. Alex was pacing back and forth. ‘He’s incredibly lucky. The bullet missed the important organs. A few millimeters to his left and it would have hit his heart. His lung collapsed for a minute, but, he’s fine now.’

‘But I saw the guy. He shot him through the heart.’ Alex said slightly stunned.

‘Actually, Quinn has a mildly rare condition called Situs Inversus. Basically put, his heart is actually on the right side of his chest, not the left.’

‘What?’ Alex asked with disbelief.

‘Quinn’s heart is on the right side of his body.’ The doctor said again. ‘Quinn is going to be fine. He’ll be up for visitors shortly.’ The doctor finished with a smile.

‘Thank you doctor.’ Mrs. Braddock said taking her son by the shoulders and sitting him down. ‘Sit, darling.’ Giuliana and Francesca were sitting side by side, rocking back and forth, and chanting repeatedly. Alex paid them no attention.

‘Come here.’ Mikhail said pulling Alex to his feet. The Russian wrapped his massive body around the Italian man and held him as Alex fell to pieces sobbing.

‘Mickey, they could have killed him. I could have got him killed.’ He said through tears.

‘But they didn’t. He’s alive.’ The Russian said gently, rocking his friend side to side. ‘He will be fine tovarishch.’

‘I could hear his thoughts.’ The Italian said through the sobs. ‘He told me not to do as they said. I could have gotten him killed.’

‘Alex. My friend. He knew what he was doing.’ Mikhail said taking his friend by the shoulders and shaking him slightly. ‘Stop this.’

‘But…’ The Russian interrupted his friend.

‘No Alex. Stop it now.’ Mikhail said firmly. ‘Quinn is fine.’ Alex fell against his friend and continued to cry.

*

‘Alex, would you like to see him?’ The doctor said coming back into the waiting room a few minutes later.

‘Yes please.’ Alex said standing up quickly. Mikhail made to stand as well but Mrs. Braddock put a hand on his arm and shook her head slightly.

Alex was led down a few hallways and into a room where he saw his boyfriend lying on the bed, a bandage wrapped around his chest and his nose looking bruised but straightened. Alex started crying again as he shuffled to the bedside. He took the blonds hand in his and kissed it tenderly.

‘I’m so sorry.’ He cried. Quinn stirred slightly at the sound and motion.

‘Alex?’ He asked with a croaky voice.

‘Yes babe.’ Alex said sniffing back his tears.

‘Don’t cry.’ Quinn said quietly as he looked up into his boyfriend’s eyes, his own eyes bloodshot.

‘I could have gotten you killed.’ Alex sobbed desperately.

‘I knew what I was doing.’ Quinn said with a small smile. ‘And I’m not dead.’

‘But, they could have killed you.’ Alex moaned.

‘Alex, my love, stop it. I’m fine.’ The blond said with a smile, squeezing his lover’s hand firmly.

‘But…’

‘Alex!’ Quinn said loudly. The effort to raise his voice made his head swim. He raised a hand to his forehead and gently rubbed it trying to alleviate the dizzy spell. ‘Stop it. I’m okay.’ Alex sobbed once more and tried to smile.

‘I’m sorry.’ Alex said before his lover had a chance to stop him.

‘I’m sorry too.’ Quinn said sadly. ‘I didn’t even have a chance to defend myself.’

‘What happened?’ The Italian asked.

‘Actually, if it’s alright with the both of you, I would like to hear how this happened as well.’ A tall police officer said from the door. He was broad of shoulder and stood nearly as tall as Alex. He had a fair complexion and light brown hair. ‘Sergeant McCallum.’ The man said flashing his badge and taking his hat off.

‘Hello Sir. I’m his partner, Alex.’ The Italian said standing up and offering the man his seat.

‘Stay seated son.’ The man said with a smile. He moved to the end of the bed where he took out a writing pad. He gestured to the doorway as a female officer came in a few steps. ‘This is my partner Officer Samuels.’ The Canadian and Italian both nodded in her direction. ‘Quinn, how do you spell your surname?’ Office McCallum asked.

‘B-E-A-U-C-H-A-M-P.’ Quinn recited.

‘Your next of kin, or contact person in case of emergencies?’

‘Sarah Beauchamp, my mum.’ Quinn said.

‘Has someone called her?’ He asked.

‘Oh shit!’ Alex exclaimed standing up again quickly.

‘Sit son. My partner will call her.’ He said nodding to Office Samuels, who was also taking notes. ‘What’s her number son?’ Quinn recited his mother’s home number to both the officers and the female officer disappeared into the hallway.

‘Now, if you’re ready, can you tell me what happened?’ Sergeant McCallum asked of Quinn.

‘Well, we were at a luncheon in the community hall in Strathmore. It was my boyfriend’s father’s funeral.’ The blond said with a tender squeeze of Alex’s hand.

‘I’m sorry for you loss son.’ The officer said with a nod to Alex. ‘Continue.’

‘We had only just arrived at the hall and I needed to go to the bathroom. I got into the bathroom, unzipped my fly and someone grabbed me from behind. He wrapped an arm around my chest and covered my mouth with his hand. I think he was wearing gloves. He took my cellphone out of my pocket, pressed a few buttons on it, and then left it on top of the toilet.’ Quinn recalled.

‘Then what happened.’ The officer prompted Quinn to continue.

‘He whispered in my ear. “Don’t scream. Don’t say anything, just come with me, and I won’t hurt you.”’ Quinn recited.

‘Did you recognize his voice?’ Sergeant McCallum asked.

‘No. But, his accent was familiar.’ He said looking to Alex. ‘He sounded like your dad and your uncle.’ He said almost apologetically.

‘And they would be?’ The Sergeant asked.

‘Nathaniel and Alistair Braddock.’ Alex said without looking away from Quinn.

‘Understandably, your father is no longer with us, but, would your Uncle have any reason to abduct Quinn?’ Sergeant McCallum asked of the Italian. At this point Officer Samuels had stepped back into the room.

‘Yes.’ Alex said around a sob. He started crying again, as Quinn tried to quiet him.

‘Stop crying babe.’ Quinn said with a smile.

‘It’s my fault.’ Alex sobbed, burying his face into his boyfriend’s hand. ‘It’s all my fault.’

‘Why is it your fault Alex?’ The officer asked with intrigue.

‘My father was part of some occult order. I think my uncle was as well. A couple days ago, my uncle asked me why I hadn’t joined in my father’s place and threatened me that I can’t hide from them forever. And again, yesterday, he threatened Quinn and my friend Mikhail.’ Alex vented his frustration to the officer. ‘I didn’t think they would resort to killing Quinn.’

‘Well luckily for us, Quinn is still alive.’ The officer said with a warm smile. ‘Carry on please Quinn.’

‘Well, he pushed me outside, and then forced me into a car.’

‘Can you describe the car for me son?’ The officer prompted.

‘It was silver.’ Quinn said unsure of himself.

‘Was it a sedan, station wagon, SUV, van?’ The officer tried to clarify.

‘A station wagon. That’s like your car, right Alex?’ The blond asked with an unsure look to his lover. Alex nodded in return.

‘Do you know what make or model it was Quinn?’ Sergeant McCallum enquired further.

‘No sorry officer.’ He said glumly. The officer smiled to assure the blond.

‘Continue.’ He prompted.

‘Well, we drove for a few minutes, and the man had his hand over my eyes, so I couldn’t see where we were going. Someone in the car was talking on a phone. I couldn’t quite hear what they were saying.’ Quinn took a breath. ‘Then the car came to a stop. I was pulled out of the car, and someone else covered my eyes and practically carried me into a building. The person holding me uncovered my eyes, but it was so dark I couldn’t see anything. I was shuffled into the middle of a dark room and forced down onto my knees. Someone tied my hands behind my back. I could see other people in the corners of my eyes, they were wearing white robes. There was also one person standing behind me, poking me in the back.’ Alex squeezed his lover’s hand firmly.

‘And then?’ The officer prompted.

‘A few minutes passed. The people around me were whispering as another man was giving someone directions on the phone.’ Quinn looked to Alex and smiled wanly.

‘Then the door opened. I couldn’t see properly.’ Quinn said. ‘But the man behind me told the person to stop where they were. Then I heard Alex ask them what they wanted. They exchanged words for a bit then the lights were turned on. I saw Alex and I started crying. I was so happy.’ Quinn said even as tears came to his eyes.

‘Alex, what happened next?’ The officer asked of the Italian.

‘The man blabbed on about the order he was in, and that they were doing God’s will, and that we were here because of his doing.’ Alex said without pause. ‘Then he told me to take my shirt off, so they could perform a ritual.’

‘What sort of ritual?’ Sergeant McCallum asked curiously.

‘I don’t know.’ Alex said, wondering how much he should say. He may be a police officer, but he won’t understand this. ‘I told the man no. I didn’t want to join his order and refused to do as he said. He called Quinn a cock sucker, and me a faggot.’

‘Then what happened?’ The officer asked trying not to show any emotion in reaction to the homophobic comments.

‘I stood up, trying to judge how quickly I could get to Quinn.’ Alex said looking into his boyfriend’s hazel eyes. ‘Before I’d even taken a step, the man pulled the trigger.’ Alex sobbed.

‘And then?’ The officer prompted.

‘I rushed at him. I punched him. Hard. He fell over and the other people scattered. I grabbed Quinn, threw him over my shoulder and ran out of the house.

‘And no-one tried to stop you? Or follow you?’ The officer asked with wonder. He was looking very intently at the Italian.

‘No sir.’ Alex said unable to tell the officer the truth.

‘What happened then?’ Sergeant McCallum asked, the intensity in his eyes lessening.

‘I ran up the road with Quinn, while I called for an ambulance. I told them what had happened and where we were. I got to the end of the street and ran a few more houses down and collapsed on the grass. I called out for help and some people came and helped me get Quinn inside.’ The Italian recounted.

‘That would have been Mr. and Mrs. Selwyn.’ The officer said flicking through his notepad.

‘Was it?’ Alex said looking to the officer, who nodded in reply. ‘I need to thank them for their help.’ He continued.

‘Okay. Well, you are safe now.’ Sergeant McCallum said closing his notepad. ‘Here is my card. If you remember anything else, please call me. My cell phone is on there as well.’ He said with a genuine smile.

‘Thank you officer.’ Quinn said with a half-smile. Sergeant McCallum smiled to the blond and put his hat on.

‘Officer. Would you mind if I asked for Mr. and Mrs. Selwyn’s address? I’d like to stop by and thank them for their help.’ Alex asked.

‘Normally I shouldn’t, but, considering the circumstances, I don’t see why not.’ The officer said scribbling an address on a piece of paper and handed it to Alex. ‘Good day boys.’ He said as he disappeared out of the room, following Officer Samuels. Quinn sighed quietly and Alex kissed his hand.

‘I’m glad you’re safe.’ The Italian said with love.

‘I’m glad you’re safe as well.’ The Canadian said with concern. ‘They could have shot you too.’ Alex looked around the room to see if anyone was around.

‘I’ll explain when you get home. Don’t wanna say anything if someone can overhear us.’ He said.

‘Okay.’ The blond said laying his head back and closing his eyes.

‘Tired babe?’ Alex asked.

‘A little.’ He said without opening his eyes.

‘Want me to leave?’ The Italian asked. Quinn’s eyes flew open as he clung onto his boyfriend’s hand.

‘No!’ He said loudly, shocking Alex mildly. ‘Please don’t leave.’ He said quietly, embarrassed by his outburst.

‘Okay.’ Alex said with a smile, shuffling his chair closer to the bed. He rested his head on the bed and dozed quietly with his lover.

*

‘Alex, bambino?’ Called a soft voice. ‘Wake up darling.’

‘Huh?’ Alex mumbled as he sat up quickly.

‘Wake up baby. There’s someone here who wants to see Quinn, and meet you.’ Mrs. Braddock said tenderly.

‘Who?’ Alex asked, shaking his head to wake up a bit.

‘Sarah Beauchamp.’ Aurelia said with a smile. ‘Quinn’s Mamma.’

‘Oh shit.’ Alex said standing up abruptly and trying to straighten his clothes. Mikhail had raced to his home earlier and collected a change of clothes for him before coming to the hospital, so that he wouldn’t have to sit around wearing blood stained clothes.

‘Calm down boy.’ A woman said from the doorway. Alex turned around so quickly his neck clicked in protest. ‘You must be Alex?’ She was almost as tall as Quinn, with the same fine blond hair flowing past her shoulders. She had beautiful hazel eyes, a soft oval face and full lips. She smiled warmly to the tall Italian man.

‘My, my. Quinn sure picked a good one.’ She laughed softly as she stepped into the room, bowing to Mrs. Braddock who beamed with pride at the praise her son received.

‘It’s a pleasure to meet you Mrs. Beauchamp.’ Alex said, holding his hand out.

‘That’s Sarah to you, Alex.’ She said with a coy smile. ‘It’s lovely to meet you as well.’ She said ignoring Alex’s outstretched hand and hugged the Italian around the waist. ‘Thank you for looking after my Quinton.’ She said releasing Alex and turning to Quinn who was still sleeping.

‘It was my fault they came after him.’ Alex said berating himself again.

‘Stop it!’ Mrs. Braddock said at the same time Mrs. Beauchamp said, ‘That’s enough.’

‘Caro, stop blaming yourself.’ Aurelia said squeezing her sons shoulder.

‘My son is alive because of you.’ Sarah said with a warm smile for the Italian. ‘Do not be so hard on yourself.’

‘Sorry.’ Alex said with embarrassment.

‘Think nothing of it.’ Mrs. Beauchamp said placing a hand on Quinn’s arm. ‘Quinton, wake up my love.’ She said softly shaking her son.

‘Mum?’ The Canadian said as he opened his eyes.

‘Hi baby.’ She said with a smile. Quinn returned the smile with his signature sunbeam.

‘How are you?’ She asked as she leaned down and kissed her son on the forehead.

‘I’m okay.’ He said. ‘Oh shit, Mum, this is Alex.’ The blond said a little flustered.

‘We’ve met baby.’ She said with a motherly smile. ‘You sure snagged a good one huh?’ She laughed. Quinn blushed and smiled.

‘He’s lovely.’ Quinn said as he saw Alex standing at the end of his bed, Mrs. Braddock tucked under his arm. Alex had bloodshot eyes from waking up moments ago. ‘Are you tired babe?’ He asked looking at Alex.

‘A little. But nothing you have to worry about.’ The Italian said with a smile.

‘I’d say you both could do with some rest.’ Mrs. Beauchamp said smiling at Alex.

‘What is the time?’ Quinn asked.

‘Nearly 5pm.’ Mrs. Braddock said checking her watch.

‘Wow.’ Quinn said with a yawn.

‘I just came to make sure you were okay baby.’ Mrs. Beauchamp said reaching out to her son. She stroked her son’s cheek with her thumb. ‘I see you are being well looked after.’

‘Thanks Mum.’ Quinn said with a smile.

‘I’ll leave you to it.’ She said, kissing her son on the forehead once more. ‘Come see me when you get out.’

‘I will mum.’ The blond said.

‘And bring this one with you.’ She said with a grin, indicating Alex.

‘Of course Mum.’

‘It was lovely meeting you Alex. I look forward to seeing you soon.’ She said squeezing the Italians shoulder.

‘And yourself Mrs. Beauchamp.’ Alex said bowing his head with respect.

‘Actually, it’s Ms. Beauchamp, but I’d prefer you called me Sarah.’ She said with a glint in her eye.

‘Yes, Sarah.’ Alex said.

‘Lovely seeing you again Aurelia.’ Sarah said embracing Aurelia.

‘You too Sarah.’ Mrs. Braddock said patting her Wiccan friend’s back gently.

‘I hope to see you soon as well.’ Sarah said with a smile.

‘I’ll stop over some time.’ Mrs. Braddock said as Sarah walked out of the room. Alex smiled as he sat down next to Quinn’s bed.

‘Darling, the orderly is going to bring a bed in for you. The doctor said it was alright for you to stay the night.’ Mrs. Braddock said standing beside her son.

‘Thanks Mamma.’ Alex said smiling brightly.

‘No worries piccolo.’ Aurelia said. ‘Can everyone else come in now to see you raggio di luce?’ She asked of her son.

‘Of course.’ The blond said smiling, as if to prove Mrs. Braddock’s nickname for him right. She turned on the spot and headed out of the room. Within seconds, there were loud footsteps rushing towards the room. Franco, Fabrizio, Giorgio, Sofia and Mikhail all came rushing into the room. Quinn was staggered at the amount of questions that were thrown at him.

‘Are you alright?’

‘What happened?’

‘Let’s go kick their arses.’

Quinn couldn’t help but smile at them all and their concern for him.

‘I’m fine, I promise. I’m okay.’ He said over and over, trying to assure everyone that he was quite well. Quinn noticed Mikhail was hanging back slightly and wondered why. He gestured for the Russian to come closer. Mikhail sloped slowly to the side of the blond’s bed, where Quinn reached out and took the giant’s hand in his own.

‘I know if you’d have been there, nothing would have happened. So please, don’t you start beating yourself up over it.’ The Canadian said with a smile.

‘I’m just glad you’re alive.’ Mikhail said with a sniffle. To Quinn’s surprise, Fabrizio came up to the Russian’s side and put an arm around the giant’s waist. Mikhail looked down to see Fabrizio’s face smiling up at him, and he couldn’t help but smile back. Alex, Quinn and Giorgio all smiled indulgently watching the little display of affection. Fabrizio and Mikhail moved back against a wall where they chatted quietly with each other. Franco leaned over and gave Quinn a gentle hug, as Sofia held Quinn’s face and gave him a motherly kiss on the forehead. Giorgio sat on the end of the blond’s bed and smiled at him, as Alex took his seat at the side of Quinn, taking his hand back in his. Everyone chatted absent-mindedly with each other for several minutes.

*

‘So, the doctor says that you’ll be in here for at least a week.’ Francesca said with a smile. Quinn’s smile vanished completely, as did Alex’s.

‘But, Gilly and ‘Lia have both agreed with me. There is something we can do that will speed that up.’ She said looking to the doorway, where Mrs. Braddock came marching in, Giuliana following closely behind, closing the door behind them. The three sisters, Quinn and Alex were the only people in the room at the time.

‘What are you doing?’ Alex asked with curiosity and fear for Quinn.

‘We are going to perform a healing circle.’ Aurelia said standing at the foot of the bed. Francesca stood on the side opposite from Alex, as Giuliana took Alex by the shoulders and shuffled him down the bed. His aunts took Quinn’s hands in their own, and reached out for Aurelia, who was already stretching her hands to her sisters. Alex was just on the outside of the makeshift circle. Before he could ask anything else, all three women began chanting in a tongue that Alex had never heard before, their eyes closed in concentration. Alex watched with fascination, as Quinn looked into his lover’s eyes, seeing the curiosity and fear fighting for domination. The blond smiled assuredly as the sisters began chanting slightly louder. Alex felt something brush against his arm and he turned around to see what it was.

‘Caiden?’ Alex asked in surprise. The blond twin nodded to him and stepped to his side.

‘May I help you with this?’ Caiden asked looking to Aurelia, who was watching the twin with mild curiosity.

‘Of course.’ She said with a smile. Caiden returned the smile, grasped Alex’s shoulder briefly and stood behind and to the side of Mrs. Braddock. The blond twin smiled to Quinn who returned the smile warmly. Caiden closed his eyes and struck up a chant of his own as he raised a hand, reached over Mrs. Braddock’s shoulder and pointed his palm to Quinn. Almost immediately, Quinn yelped quietly in pain. Alex panicked and made to grab the blond twin instinctively.

‘Wait!’ Giuliana said looking down to Quinn and throwing a hand in the air to stop Alex. ‘It’s helping.’ She said. Alex glanced to the blond twin and then to Quinn who seemed to be writhing in pain. He was torn between stopping the pain and trusting the twin.

‘Keep chanting please.’ Caiden said without opening his eyes. The sisters continued their melodic chant, their hands rising and falling with the tempo. Caiden muttered to himself louder as Quinn began thrashing about.

‘He’s hurting him.’ Alex said stepping toward his boyfriend.

‘No.’ Quinn called through his grunts of pain. ‘It’s helping.’ He said through clenched teeth.

‘Quinn?’ Alex asked with confusion.

‘Leave him.’ He gasped. ‘It’s helping.’

Alex sighed in frustration and left the four of them to their bizarre circle of healing. A few minutes passed and Quinn was drenched in sweat. The sisters stopped chanting and Caiden moved to Quinn’s side without opening his eyes. His hand, still in front of him, palm down, now shook as he got closer to Quinn. He lowered his hand and it shook violently as he pressed against Quinn’s bandaged wound. Alex’s vision blurred and he saw himself lying on the bed. He blinked and returned to reality. Quinn shouted in pain as the hand made contact with his bandaged chest. Alex jumped to the twin’s side, but his aunt held her hand out to stop him.

‘Look bambino.’ She said pointing to Quinn’s bandages. ‘Look what he’s done.’

Caiden opened his eyes and the blond stopped thrashing about in agony. Quinn opened his eyes and smiled to the twin.

‘Thank you.’ He said.

‘You’re quite welcome. I am sorry I wasn’t there to stop you from being hurt in the first place.’ The twin said sadly.

‘Show me.’ Alex said brushing past his aunt gently. Quinn reached up and pulled the bandage down slightly. Where the wound should have been was now a clean and tidy scar.

‘But how?’ Alex asked touching the point where the gunshot wound should have been.

‘These three ladies were gathering the healing powers of the earth. Under normal circumstances, it would have healed Quinn faster than normal. I merely interceded these powers and guided them to the exact place that needed healing.’ The twin said with a smile to the blond man.

‘Again, thank you.’ Quinn said releasing the bandages. ‘Does that mean I can leave?’

‘If you’ll give me a few minutes, I can have that arranged.’ Caiden said swooping to the door and disappearing.

‘What is he?’ Francesca asked as the twin left the room.

‘I don’t know Franny. But, he just took our powers and focused them for us. He was right. What we were doing would have eventually healed him, but over a few days, not instantly.’

‘But how did he do that. What is he?’ Francesca asked not quite believing her sister.

‘I don’t know.’ Mrs. Braddock said again.

‘We are the Triumvirate. My brother, myself, and Alex. We are the three who were born of the Light.’ Said a voice from the corner. Alex spun around and saw the red headed twin standing in the corner. ‘We are the Children of Light.’ Francesca and Giuliana both gaped at the red head, while Mrs. Braddock beamed at her son with pride.

‘I am sorry for intruding. I wanted to make sure Quinn was okay.’ Jaden said glancing at the blond now sitting up in the bed, wiping away the sweat from his face.

‘Thank you Jaden.’ Quinn said with a beaming smile. Jaden couldn’t help but return the smile.

‘My brother has grown quite fond of you, and having the telepathic rapport that we do, I find myself equally drawn to you.’ The red head said with a wink. Just then Caiden re-entered the room.

‘You will be discharged shortly. The doctor will come and check on you in five minutes. I modified everyone’s memories. They believe you were just grazed by the bullet.’ The blond twin said staring into the distance.

‘Thank you Caiden.’ Quinn said turning his smile on the blond twin. As he normally did with Quinn, he turned his full attention to the Canadian and smiled.

‘The least I could do.’ The blond twin said reaching for his brother. Jaden stepped to his side and hooked his arm around his brother’s.

‘We should go before the doctor comes.’ Jaden said. ‘We will see you both later this week.’ He said as they vanished in a surge of invisible energy.

‘Christ they’re creepy.’ Giuliana said with a giggle.

‘Says the crazy old witch.’ Francesca laughed. Mrs. Braddock giggled.

‘Hello young Mister Quinn.’ The doctor from earlier said as he came into the room.

‘Let’s check that bandage, and we’ll get you discharged so you can get home, yeah?’

‘Thank you doctor.’ Quinn said with a coy smile.

*

‘Do you need a pillow or something to lean on?’ Alex asked as he fluffed up the cushions behind Quinn.

‘No babe. I’m okay, really!’ Quinn said for what he felt was the hundredth time since they got back to Alex’s apartment 15 minutes ago.

‘Sorry. That must be really annoying?’ Alex asked with a pout.

‘No babe. I know you care a lot for me.’ The blond said with a beaming smile. ‘But I’m not made of china. I don’t need special attention.’

‘Not made of china? You got shot baby.’ Alex said, at first as a joke, but realized mid-sentence the severity of his statement, frowning slightly.

‘Ugh. Let’s not mention the shooting anymore, okay?’ Quinn said slightly frustrated. He didn’t want the beginning of his wonderful relationship with the handsome Italian being spoiled by guilt. Alex smiled slightly and took the blond’s hand in his own.

‘Wanna watch a movie?’ He asked excitedly.

‘I’d love to. You pick.’ Quinn said with a wink. Alex jumped off the sofa and skipped to the DVD rack beside the entertainment unit in his lounge. He selected a movie he thought Quinn would like and set it to play. Once everything was powered up and running, he raced into the kitchen and threw some popcorn into the microwave and got two glasses of fizzy drink. Just as Quinn was selecting play on the DVD, Alex came into the lounge with popcorn, drinks and lollies. He set them on the coffee table and snuggled up with his lover, wrapping an arm around the shoulders of the smaller man.

‘Comfy?’ He asked quietly.

‘Very.’ The blond said reaching for the popcorn. Alex leaned forward with him and snatched the popcorn from the table, putting it into Quinn’s lap. As the starting credits began rolling, the sliding door slid open and Mikhail, Fabrizio and Giorgio came in from the deck.

‘Ooh, movie time.’ The Russian said sitting on the sofa opposite Alex and Quinn, resting his arm across the back of the sofa. Fabrizio sat comfortably close to the Russian, sitting under his arm slightly. The Russian smiled at the smallest of the Italian’s. Alex’s youngest cousin smiled back and cuddled up a bit more. Alex, Quinn and Giorgio all smiled with knowing glances to each other. Quinn leaned into Alex a bit more and tapped the spare sofa behind him.

‘Sit here Giorgio.’ He said with a smile. Alex’s older cousin glanced to Alex who nodded in affirmation. Giorgio sat on the seat beside the blond and awkwardly folded his arms. Alex whispered into Quinn’s ear and the blond reached out and took one of the Italian cousin’s hands and held it on his lap. Giorgio’s smile nearly outshone the blond’s.

As the movie progressed, Mikhail and Fabrizio lost interest in the movie and were busy whispering to each other, an occasional giggle coming from one of them.

‘If I didn’t know any better, I’d say Rasputin has found a new interest in your cousin.’ The blond said quietly. Only Alex and Giorgio heard this comment.

‘I think you’re right raggio di luce.’ Alex said with a smile to the new couple.

‘I’ve never seen Fabz so happy.’ The oldest cousin said with a smile. ‘It’s good to see.’

‘I think they’re cute together.’ Quinn said with a grin. ‘At least I don’t have to worry about Rasputin trying to steal you from me.’ He added with a laugh.

‘He would never manage that.’ Alex said kissing his boyfriend on the cheek. Giorgio feeling left out, pouted slightly.

‘I’m sure I can find you some company if you like cousin?’ Alex offered.

‘I’m okay Alex.’ He answered. ‘I just wonder where I’m going to sleep if the big guy is asked to stay.’

‘You can always crash with us.’ Alex said happily.

‘I suppose so. But I don’t want to intrude on your private space.’ Giorgio added.

‘I wouldn’t worry about that.’ Alex said.

‘Yeah, you did watch us fuck.’ Quinn laughed loudly.

‘What’s so funny?’ Mikhail asked looking over. Fabrizio giggled.

‘I was just saying I hope Fabrizio is on the pill, lest he get knocked up with a Russian baby.’ Quinn said quickly. Everyone laughed loudly.

‘It seems getting shot has made you a little cocky I think tovarishch.’ The Russian said standing up and trying to look menacing.

‘And what are you going to do about it big guy?’ The blond said with a devilish smile.

‘Wait until you get drunk and shave your eyebrows off.’ Mikhail laughed as he skipped to the kitchen and got some wine out of the fridge. Fabrizio seeing what the Russian was doing raced in to help him carry everything back.

‘Do you think it’s okay for me to drink?’ The blond asked quietly of Alex.

‘I think one or two won’t hurt, don’t you?’ Alex replied.

‘I suppose.’ Quinn said with a shrug.

The Russian and the smallest of the Italians returned to the living room with wine glasses and bottles, and began pouring everyone a glass. As they took their own glasses, the Russian raised his glass and cleared his throat.

‘To Quinn.’ He said. ‘May the next bullet hit you in the vocal chords, so you can’t make any more jokes at my expense.’ He said to raucous laughter.

‘And to you big guy. I hope you get some.’ The blond winked ludicrously at the Russian. Fabrizio blushed so red he almost vanished in the red sofa he was sitting on.

‘Pay him no mind. He’s just jealous.’ The Russian laughed, pulling Fabrizio into a firm hug. The Russian looked to Quinn and flexed his massive bicep. ‘I know you would prefer my muscles over that skinny rat’s.’ He said winking at Alex.

‘Why would he want a clumsy tank, when he can have a custom built, good handling Ferrari?’ Alex said joining in the jesting.

‘If you’re a Ferrari that would make me a…’ Giorgio began.

‘Mini Cooper.’ Alex interrupted with a laugh. The older cousin threw a cushion at Alex and everyone laughed heartily.

*

‘I think I might go to bed Alex. I’m a bit tired.’ Quinn said after a yawn.

‘I’ll come with you.’ Alex said standing up and helping Quinn to his feet.

‘We’re off to bed guys.’ Quinn announced to everyone.

‘Feel free to jump in with us if you want, cousin.’ Alex said to Giorgio.

‘Thanks Alex.’ The older cousin said with a smile.

‘You don’t need to.’ Mikhail said. ‘I’m going to head home now.’ Fabrizio looked a little disappointed but the Russian smiled. ‘I’ll be back tomorrow, I promise.’

‘God, you’re going to make me sick.’ Giorgio said with a grin. Fabrizio blushed again.

‘Jealous.’ Mikhail said. He leaned over slightly, wrapped himself around the small Italian and kissed him firmly. Fabrizio melted in the embrace and lost himself to the kiss. Giorgio smiled warmly as Alex and Quinn said goodnight to everyone.

‘See you guys tomorrow.’ The blond said leading the way, his boyfriend right behind him, holding his shoulders for support.

‘I’m happy for Mikhail and Fabrizio. They really are cute together.’ Quinn said as he climbed into bed carefully.

‘Yeah they are.’ Alex replied sliding across the bed and taking Quinn into his muscular arms. ‘I just hope they don’t get too serious. Fabz has to go back home soon.’

‘I didn’t think of that.’ The blond said contemplatively. ‘What a shame.’

‘Mmm.’ Alex said quietly. They lay quietly hugging each other for a few minutes when there was a quiet knock at the door.

‘Come in?’ Alex called without letting Quinn go, or even looking at the door.

‘Sorry Alex. Can we have a word?’ Came a quiet voice. Alex sat up a bit and looked to the door. Both his cousins were standing there, sticking their heads around the partially closed door.

‘What’s up guys?’ Alex asked slightly concerned.

‘Nothing serious.’ Giorgio said detecting the worry in his cousin’s voice. ‘This one wants to ask you something.’ He said jabbing a thumb at his little brother.

‘Well, come in then.’ Alex said sitting up. Quinn stayed lying down, but shuffled over slightly and laid his head in his boyfriends lap. Alex immediately began running his hands through the soft blond hair. Giorgio opened the door completely and walked in wearing just his boxer briefs. Fabrizio followed in similar dress. They both sat at the end of the large bed.

‘What’s up Fabz?’ Alex asked absentmindedly running his fingers through Quinn’s hair, who looked rather sleepy.

‘Well, I was thinking…’ The small Italian began unsure of what he wanted to say. Alex smiled trying to encourage him.

‘Idiota.’ His older brother exclaimed with a sigh. ‘He wants to leave Italy and move here.’ Alex smiled to himself.

‘Mikhail?’ Alex asked of his cousin. The smaller Italian blushed bright red and nodded. ‘Well, if that’s what you want to do, I won’t stop you. But, if you want to move here, I suggest you do it for yourself, not for someone else.’

‘I want to do it for myself. I’m having a bit of a hard time back home, and think some time away might do me some good.’ Fabrizio said with a smile.

‘Oh dio, who am I going to pick on when we get home?’ Giorgio said with a grin.

‘I’m sure you’ll manage.’ The younger brother said nudging his older brother gently with his shoulder.

‘Well, if that’s what you want, I’m sure it will all work out.’ Alex said assuring the young man. ‘You can live with Mamma, or me, if you wanted.’

‘That would be nice, I think.’ Fabrizio said, staring off in thought.

‘Maybe we should talk to Mamma in the morning, before you decide anything serious?’ The older brother said, squeezing his younger siblings shoulder gently.

‘You’re right.’ Fabrizio said with a grimace. ‘Oh dio, she won’t be happy about this.’

‘Ah, I’m sure she’ll be fine.’ Alex said with a smile.

‘We’ll let you get to sleep cousin.’ Giorgio said looking down to Quinn’s face. ‘Your raggio di luce is asleep.’

‘Thanks Georgie. Night guys.’ Alex said carefully lifting his boyfriends head and lying down, placing the blond head on his chest. The cousins slipped out the bedroom door quietly and Alex turned his bedside light off. He snuggled up to his boyfriend, who tightened his grip in sleepy response. Alex kissed the top of the blond head and whispered, ‘Goodnight my love.’

Interestingly enough, Alex had the same dream again. The one where he sees himself, or the person who resembles him, standing in the middle of a field, clutching their chest. This time, when the perspective changed, he was running behind someone, racing to the fallen person. He stood over the fallen person, their head cradled in the lap of the dark haired person kneeling in front of him. Alex looked up and scanned the area, the field void of other people, the trees around the edges of the field standing like motionless soldiers. He looked back down to the two people and his vision blurred with tears.