Jumping Over My Mountain - 19. Chapter 19

Jumping Over My Mountain
by Tiffani Chin

Chapter 19

---------------------------------------------

************SKYLER************

"Mom and Dad are not going to kill you," I reassured Storm. I had managed to calm him down enough to sit with me while we, or more accurately, I ate dinner. He was too on edge to get anything down.

"Yes they will. They're laid back and everything, but they’ve always said to be careful about sex because we should have our lives settled and in order before bringing a child into this world," Storm said.

I nodded as I stuffed a large spoonful of chicken noodle soup into my mouth. I recalled that speech from back in the day. Luckily for me, I doubt any woman would be popping out my baby since I now had Zeke. It never felt so good to be gay before. What a way to put things into perspective.

"Listen Storm, you're not a bad kid just because you knocked up some girl, ok? It happens. Look, we're 21. Clearly adults, not some high school kids. It could be worse."

"You know when the time comes, Mom and Dad will help out and be there when you need them. They always have been in the past,” I added as an afterthought.

Storm didn't look at me and was staring into his cold hot chocolate.

"Think about it. You could have done something worse. You aren't into drugs or smoking. You're responsible, for the most part. Now you're bringing life into this world, perhaps a little early, but it's better than killing someone,” I offered.

Storm glared at me.

"Well, come on, how much more pissed do you think Mom and Dad would be if you had killed a pedestrian while drunk or something? Not to mention the shame," I said, "It's a baby. Mom shouldn't take it too hard. I'd think she'd be glad to be a young grandmother."

"But I'm too young to be a father!" Storm burst out so loudly that my head shot up. I inched my chair away from him. Storm cradled his head in his hands and groaned, "This is just so fucked up. I can't believe this happened. I mean, we used protection."

"Yeah, but there's always a risk of pregnancy, no matter what," I reminded.

"I know," Storm snapped. He paused and then looked at me, "That isn't even the worst part, her being pregnant. She doesn't want to keep the baby."

I frowned, "What?"

Storm sighed and took a deep breath, "Kate's parents are really religious. She isn't planning on telling them about the pregnancy. Instead, she is visiting her Aunt in North Carolina. She is going to have the baby there and plans to give it up for adoption."

"Without telling you?" I demanded.

"That's the thing. Her Aunt said she had to tell the father of the baby, because it wasn't only her child to give up."

"You don't want to give it up for adoption, right?" I asked curiously.

"Of course not!" Storm exclaimed. Then he bit his lip, "Well, theoretically it would be a good idea, especially since she wants to. I just can't do it," he said, his dark eyes looking sadly at me, "It's my baby, Sky, my kid. How can I give it up to strangers? It would be like giving up a piece of me."

I nodded in agreement. "Isn't that a problem though?"

"What do you mean?" Storm asked.

"Well, if you want to keep the baby, and she doesn't?"

Storm rubbed his eyes, "Yeah, we discussed that too, although not too seriously and not in much detail. We were throwing around the idea of me raising this baby. Alone."

My eyebrows shot up, "Alone? She doesn't want to be any part of it?"

I found it hard to believe that a mother wouldn't want to know or be there for her own flesh and blood, which she brought into this world.

Storm shook his head, "If she did and admitted the pregnancy to her parents, they would disown her. She would be the shame of her family."

"But it's her baby!" I exclaimed.

Storm shrugged, "She was pretty torn up about it herself. She didn't look so well when I saw her. I know this whole thing is stressing her. It must be killing her inside to give up our baby, but she made her choice."

"Wow, so you're going to raise the baby all by yourself?" I asked stunned.

"I have to. I did this. I have to take responsibility. It's my kid."

Storm was silent. He looked like he was deep in thought. I knew Storm well enough to know that he was stewing. Any minute now, he would be bursting with his thoughts. I took the opportunity to rinse out my soup bowl and I began fixing a peanut butter and jelly sandwich. I had a feeling it was going to be a long night of eating and listening to him rant and cry, if need be.

"Even if Mom and Dad are ok with this and help me out, my life is ruined,"
Storm said quietly as I sat down at the table again, "The baby will be born at the end of May if it's on time. I won't have time to get a job. Even if I did, I would need practically full-time help from Mom or someone. I have to move in with Mom. I can't date for the next, I don't know, eighteen fucking years!" Storm slumped in his chair looking defeated.

"What if I'm a shitty father? What if the kid gets older and hates me?" he suddenly asked.

"Listen Storm, there is no such thing as a perfect parent. Every parent kind of fumbles and learns along the way. Still, the parent and kid love one another unconditionally; that's how it works. Like I can't stand Dad, but I still love him. He's my Dad; I have to."

"This is huge! I don't know if I'm ready for this! It's all so soon. It's happening too fast!" Storm said looking panicked.

"Storm, calm down, ok?" I said rubbing his shoulder, "One thing at a time. You have to talk things over with Kate, make arrangements, legal ones if need be. Meanwhile, you need to tell Mom and Dad. You're going to need their support now," I said taking charge.

Storm swallowed hard and turned a little paler, but nodded, "Yeah, you're right," he gulped, "Oh god; I don't want to tell them. They're going to be so disappointed in me."

I looked at my brother sympathetically and knew how huge a deal this was for him, besides the whole baby thing.

All our lives, Storm had been the perfect twin, reserved, responsible, polite, more hardworking than me, and Dad's favorite. I was the crazy twin, who did as he pleased and got into trouble all the time. I was so used to being a disappointment, to my Dad mostly, that it didn't faze me. For Storm to be knocked off his pedestal or whatever was going to be a huge adjustment for him. Welcome to my world.

"Sure they'll be disappointed, but they'll get over it. Once they see your cute baby, they'll be ok. I like the idea of being a young uncle," I said smiling.

Storm smiled weakly.

"The sooner you tell them, the better. Arrange a dinner this upcoming weekend. I'll be there for you, ok? You won't be alone," I promised. Storm shot me a grateful look.

"This is so messed up. I always assumed this would have happened to you," he said.

I smirked, "Yeah, me too."

We fell silent and I looked at him sideways, "I bet you wish you were gay now, don't you? Should have hopped on the gay bandwagon while it still had an open seat," I sang out.

His arm moved so fast I didn't even see it coming.

"Hey!" I sputtered as I was covered in Storm's now-cooled off hot chocolate.

"Asshole," Storm muttered but he was smiling.

"Don't be mad that you missed your chance, bro," I said as I stood up, ready to head to the shower.

"Dickhead."

I turned back once more, "Everything will be ok, Storm. I know it will."

"Thanks Skyler."

***************CREW*************

"What's wrong?" Hiro asked.

I sighed and shook my head, "Nothing."

Hiro inched closer to me on the bed and kissed my neck and nipped gently at my ear, "Don't lie to me baby. I can tell when something is bothering you. Tell me."

I looked at him, "I'm just scared."

"Of what?"

"Of the future. Of things changing."

"What do you mean?"

"I like how things are. Everything is so perfect right now. I can't bear for it to change," I said frowning, "I can't take it, Hiro. My life was shit after high school; all I had was work and school. Now I have you. I don't want to lose you too."

Hiro stroked my cheek, "You won't lose me baby."

I rolled away from him, "How do you know that? Things happen."

Hiro sat up and caught my arm and tried to pull me close again, "I know Crew, things can happen, sometimes for the better, sometimes for the worse. We have to go with it. If things get bad, we just have to try to make it ok."

"But I want things to stay as it is, forever!"

Hiro laughed and I crossed my arms, "Life is boring without change and unnatural. It's ok to be scared, but you can't let your fear consume you."

"I'm being dumb."

Hiro kissed my cheek, "You're not dumb, Crew. You've been through a lot. I can see why you’d want things to remain the same. Things have been good, and I couldn't be happier. The future can bring better things too. We’ll have to live through it and see, right?"

I nodded silently. "I love you Crew; please don't be sad," Hiro said hugging me affectionately, "I think about our future too. I want things to go just as we plan. But there is no such certainty. All we can do is move forward and just be happy where we are, right now, together."

I looked up and Hiro's light brown eyes were peering into mine lovingly and he smiled at me. He leaned in, kissing me softly as his body pinned me to the bed.

"You know, I remember when I saw you for the first time," Hiro mumbled between kisses.

"Yeah?" I breathed out as I closed my eyes and savored his tender caresses.

"It was a history class. I was in the back of the room. You were in the front, near the door. I remember thinking how beautiful you were. When the attendance sheet was passed around, I thought you had the cutest name," Hiro murmured as his fingers roamed over my chest and stomach.

I squirmed beneath him.

“I was thinking how I wanted to meet you. I wasn't exactly sure how to approach you. I didn't even know if you were gay."

"But Skyler…" I said as it all came back to me. My first day meeting Hiro, we had had lunch together. Good ol' Skyler, he was the unknown matchmaker.

"I think it was love at first sight," Hiro said.

"You did?"

Hiro kissed my lips firmly, "Yeah, I just knew I wanted to get to know you and be around you. You're something special Crew. I'm so lucky to have found you."

"I'm glad you found me too, Hiro. I needed you; you were the person I needed all along to turn my life around. I was so miserable, with my family and all, but you made me deal with it. Thank you," I said sincerely.

Hiro never answered me. He was in the process of taking my shirt off. Then my pants. Then my boxers.

I was surprised when I felt him wrapping a condom around my leaking cock and lubing it up generously. He must have seen the shock on my face, but he just smiled as he began to ease himself onto me. I inhaled sharply as the head of my cock popped into his hole and I felt warm tight heat as he slid further down on me.

My eyes rolled back. I found myself gripping Hiro's knees and moaning loudly.

"Jesus!" I gasped as Hiro squeezed his muscles around my member. A jolt of pleasure spread throughout my entire body.

"This is how you make me feel all the time, Crew. I want you to experience this as well," he whispered as he looked into my eyes.

I felt his fingers gently rolling my nipples. I arched my back as he slowly began to ride me, increasing his pace gradually.

There was too much going on. My entire body felt as if it was on fire. There was no break from the wonderful feelings I was experiencing. My nipples were gently teased. I bit my lip, digging my head into the pillow.

Hiro rode me faster and kept his muscles tight around me. I couldn't resist crying out. I didn't think I would be able to last very long, not with the way Hiro was stimulating me.

"Hiro, I'm gonna cum!" I groaned. My eyes closed tightly and I tensed.

I felt myself reach the point of no return; a shudder went through my body, my muscles tightened and contracted. I thrust upward into Hiro's hole sharply.

I screamed as I felt my orgasm tear out of my cock and my juices were deposited in the recesses of his ass.

"FUCK!!!" I shouted.

I pumped my hips slowly as I was still inside of him, even after my orgasm subsided. We lay in that position for a bit, until Hiro pulled off of me, settling on the other side of my bed. I pried open my eyelids and noticed he was still hard.

I reached for him and felt his throbbing hardness in my hand. He gasped as my fist closed tightly around his cock and I stroked him. I stroked him twice and felt his cock enlarge just before his cum shot onto my forearm; some of it landed on my palm.

Hiro groaned and his arms supported his torso as he gripped the blankets. He thrust into my hand while he came. When he opened his eyes and met mine, he smiled, his cheeks flushed.

"I couldn't hold off."

I grinned sleepily at him, "I didn't want you to."

Hiro gingerly pulled the condom off my cock and went into the bathroom to get a cloth. He wiped the bed down and then lay down next to me, his head resting on my pillow.

His arm wrapped around my stomach; we shuffled into a spooning position and I pushed my ass into his crotch. He snuggled up tightly behind me. I felt his chin resting in the crook of my neck.

"Good night, Crew. I love you," he said softly into my ear before kissing my neck. I was becoming accustomed to his daily kiss on that spot.

"I love you, too," I sighed, closing my eyes, letting the post orgasmic bliss overcome me.

***********SKYLER*********

"You didn't tell Storm we're going to California over winter break? That we are going to be moving there at the end of May?" Zeke asked in disbelief.

I sighed, "I know. I should have. He has been so upset since he found out about Kate. He's so moody and depressed. I'm afraid of how he'll take the news," I admitted.

"Well, I'm sure he'll miss you, but he'll want what is best for you and for you to be happy," Zeke assured me.

"I know he does, but we've been together all our lives; we're twins. Now just when his life is thrown for a loop, I'm leaving?"

"You want to postpone moving?" Zeke asked with understanding in his eyes, "I don't mind Sky. I know it's for a good reason. I can wait. Once school is done, it's not like I have to be in Boston anymore."

I kissed him quickly, "I know, but I really wanted to head out right after school ended. That was our original plan. I just don't know what to do. I feel so torn."

Zeke stayed silent and rested his head on my chest.

"You've told your parents about it right?"

"I told my Mom. She said if it would make me happy, I should still go. I didn't bother to tell my Dad. That would be useless. Remember how much of a jerk he was during dinner?" Zeke reminded and I nodded.

"I'm having dinner with my family tonight. Storm is planning to tell our parents about Kate and the baby. With my luck, my Dad will bug me about moving to San Francisco. Then the cat will be out of the bag," I said frowning, "So in a way, I'm saved from the trouble of telling him."

"Can’t you tell him before your Dad mentions anything?" Zeke suggested.

I groaned, "Nooo! So then I can make him feel even worse before dinner, right before my parents rip into him for knocking up a girl?"

Zeke chuckled and kissed my neck.

"God, why does life suck?" I muttered.

*************

"Holy shit, Storm! Breathe, will you? You look as if you're about to be executed or something. It's dinner with our parents," I hissed. I had walked into his room at Mom's house and found him sitting on the bed slightly hyperventilating.

We walked into the dining room. Mom was putting the last of the dishes on the table. Dad sat across from her. He had left his wife behind, at Storm's request. She was a nice enough woman, we just never got to know her too well. Even though she was technically family, Storm felt more comfortable just telling Mom and Dad first.

"So, Storm, what is it that you have to tell us?" Dad said. Clearly he was anxious about what Storm had to say. Even though Mom and Dad were on good terms, they didn't get together too often outside of holidays. This was something out of the ordinary.

I glanced at Storm and saw him swallow a couple of times. I even noticed a few beads of sweat on his pale forehead.

"Um…" Storm began.

"Yes?" Dad said.

I slapped Storm's thigh and gave him an encouraging look.

"What's going on?" Mom demanded catching our look. I think she sensed trouble-probably assuming it was my doing, no doubt.

"There's no easy way to say this," Storm stalled.

"What is it? What happened?" Mom asked, panic rising in her voice.

I could understand her worry; Storm was making things seem worse than they were.

"Just tell us, Storm," Dad said impatience and concern in his voice.

"I got my ex-girlfriend pregnant," Storm blurted out.

His confession was met with complete silence. We waited for someone to say something, but it seemed as if the silence dragged on for hours.

Mom and Dad both stopped eating and stared at Storm. Dad's expression was hard to categorize, but Mom looked downright shocked, her mouth hanging open a little.

"What?" she asked.

"How did this happen?" Dad asked at the same time.

"We had broken up," Storm said with tears in his eyes, "but I ran into her after a bad date and then we, you know…"

Dad groaned. Mom still looked shocked.

"Were you safe?" he asked.

"Of course!" Storm exclaimed.

"Then how did this happen?" Dad demanded raising his voice.

Storm shrunk in his chair like a scolded child, "I guess it broke."

Dad was fuming.

"Danielle, do you have anything to say about this?" Dad snapped at my mother.

Mom was just sitting in her chair, frozen, her face expressionless.

"Danielle?" Dad said a little more forcefully.

"Mom?" I tried.

"Mom?" Storm said weakly, looking at her.

I saw tears fall from her eyes as she looked at Storm. She then stood up, walked over to him, and hugged him tightly.

"It's ok, Storm; everything will be ok, baby," Mom said as more tears fell. I saw Storm's eyes were closed. He too was crying as he clung to Mom.

I glanced over at Dad. He was staring intently at them, while rubbing his head.

"You both plan on keeping this baby, right?" he asked in a tight voice.

Storm nodded without opening his eyes.

"So, you’re going to marry her, right?" he pressed.

Storm sniffed and disentangled himself from Mom's arms.

"Well," he began hesitantly, "umm, there's a little more to the story. The short version is that Kate doesn't want the baby."

"I don't understand," Dad said frowning.

Storm swallowed, "Uh well, I'm going to raise this baby. Without her."

"What?" Mom gasped.

"She's just going to dump the baby on you and take off?" Dad asked loudly. Storm cringed.

"Her family is really religious and-"

"Then she should have kept her legs together!" Dad shouted.

"Steven!" Mom yelled.

"So it's ok for her to have this baby and then walk away? It's ok that she can ruin your life? She doesn't want anything to do with this child?" Dad asked his eyes narrowed.

"Well, we haven't talked everything through just yet. Things were a little crazy the last time we talked," Storm tried to explain.

Dad stood up abruptly. The scraping of his chair was so loud, Storm and I both cringed.

"You have to marry her and have a family. That's the right way to do things," he insisted firmly, folding his arms.

“I don't want to marry her!"

"Well, you should have thought about the consequences before your pleasure," Dad said angrily. He began to pace back and forth. He was rubbing his eyes in frustration.

"Storm, you really screwed up this time," Dad said laughing dryly, "Knocked up a girl and didn’t finish college. You don't have a job. You're not even in a relationship with this girl. And you," he continued pointing at me, "the other son is gay. What a family," he mocked sarcastically.

"Steven!" Mom hissed.

"But, it's true, isn't it?" Dad snapped, "Skyler is a crazy kid. I've accepted that. But Storm was supposed to be the one on track with his life. Aren't you a little angry at how things turned out?"

"No," Mom said firmly, her lips quivering.

"Liar!" Dad exclaimed smugly, "You're as ashamed of them as I am."

"I am not!" she screamed, "You're the one that cares so much about appearances and what others think of our family! You're the one that can't accept things, especially if you don't approve. All I want is for them to be happy and safe. Being gay and having a baby a little early doesn't affect their happiness and safety!"

"You think Storm will be happy having to deal with a baby when his life isn't even together?" Dad shouted back.

"Well, it's too late now. We have to deal with it and move forward!" Mom yelled.

"I am so disappointed," Dad said under his breath. He looked at Mom, "I blame you for this, Dani," he said harshly, "Always babying them, spoiling them, letting them think it's ok to do whatever they want. Skyler getting into all kinds of trouble. Now he’s shacking up with another guy. The other, well, who the fuck knows?"

"Oh fuck you, Steven!" Mom interrupted, her lips curling in anger, "You think you're so much better than me, huh? A better parent? Well, fuck you; you didn't even fight for their custody. Don't go calling me a bad mother, you bastard," she ranted as she walked closer to Dad, "You rarely even saw them, just sent over your stupid money! You want to talk about appearances? How about you - marrying a jobless whore who is practically half your age? Sure, our families will talk about Storm's baby, and about Skyler and Zeke. Don't forget though, they still talk about you and that little gold digging bitch you married! So cut your holier-than-thou attitude!"

I watched in horror as my Dad's hand swung out and slapped my mother hard across the face. The smack was deafening. I swear I could see it in slow motion, but was helpless to stop it.

Why is it that when something bad is about to happen, like a car accident, time seems to slow down, though never slow enough for you to prevent it? Maybe the human body can't react fast enough. Hmm, tough one.

The sharp slap seemed to echo in the silence of our home. Everyone remained still. Storm was staring back and forth between our Mom and Dad, his mouth open. Mom was just standing there, motionless.

I think she was in shock. I don't think Dad had ever hit her before. I could see her small body trembling with either rage or sadness. I noticed a red tinge began to spread over her cheek where he hit her.

I reacted first.

I stood up and got in Dad's face. We were so close, we could have been kissing.

"Get the fuck out!" I yelled, my jaw twitching.

Dad puffed out his chest and pushed against me slightly. He was an inch shorter with a similar build to Storm and me.

"Don't tell me what to do, you ungrateful shit. You have no respect for anyone!" Dad said evenly as he looked back at me.

"I have no respect for you. I hate you!"

I didn't see it coming. So much for time slowing down, huh?

My head hit the dinner table as I fell over from the impact of Dad's fist. I tasted blood and felt a pool of liquid in my mouth that I doubted was saliva. Turning my head to the side, I spat and saw red in front of me.

"Oh god, Skyler," Mom said, but all of my attention was on my Dad.

I stood up and shoved him hard, so hard that he fell onto the ground, right on his ass. He looked up at me in shock.

I don't think the bastard expected me to hit him back. Something about respecting elders or some shit. But in my opinion, being twenty years older didn't automatically warrant respect, especially when that said person was acting like a complete dick.

I heard my mother crying behind me, but it didn't really register. My father stumbled to his feet and looked at me with rage. I'll admit- that look of rage got me a little scared. I froze on the spot waiting in fearful anticipation at what he would do next.

He grabbed my collar, pulling on it tightly with his clenched fists, yanking me to him. He back handed me sharply. I felt the sting on my cheek and my eyes automatically began to tear up. He grabbed me again and threw me onto the table. My head knocked on the wood with a loud thud.

I stared blankly into my father's eyes. He was breathing hard and staring right back at me.

"Steven!" Mom screamed, her cry choked with tears.

He continued to look down at me and I watched the rage slowly dissipate from his eyes. Dad suddenly blinked. He released my shirt, taking a step back from me. He looked like he was confused over what had just happened. I could see it in his eyes.

And the regret.

Our relationship wasn't so great to begin with, but after what had just happened, I doubted it would be getting better any time soon.

I stood up and touched my cheek which now felt sore. Then I touched my lip and wiped off some blood. I glared at my Dad who stood there looking defeated.

"I'm so sorry," Storm choked out. I didn't turn around to face him.

"Steven, please leave," Mom said quietly, still frozen on the spot.

I fixed my shirt, keeping my face expressionless. My eyes were on Dad the entire time.

I casually strode over to the front door, knowing everyone’s eyes were on me.

"Skyler," Dad said as I passed him. He reached for my arm, "Sky, I'm sorry."

I spun around, my eyes flashing. I ripped my arm from his grasp, "Don't touch me," I said evenly, my teeth clenched.

The regret was even more pronounced in his eyes. I could tell that it pained my father to see me walk away, with hatred in my eyes. But I didn't give a shit at this point.

I opened the front door and left, fishing for my car keys in the process.

I needed to get out of there. And fast.

************HIRO**********

"You're going to have a baby?" Crew asked incredulously as he, Storm, and I sat at a small table by the window in Starbucks.

It was Monday night. We had finished with our classes for the day, but were still on campus when Storm called Crew, saying he needed to talk to somebody. The Starbucks in New Brunswick was closest to campus.

We all got hot chocolate. It was mid-November and pretty cold and nasty outside.

Storm had just told us what had been going on with him, starting with that afternoon when he had come to his apartment, in a state of shock.

"Yeah, the whole thing is a mess. I don't want to get into the whole spiel of things, but Kate doesn't want the baby. I don't want an adoption or abortion. So basically, it's just going to be me and the baby, alone," he explained.

"I told my parents this past Saturday night. Let's just say it was a disaster. A screaming match between my parents. Even a fight between Skyler and Dad," he finished, closing his eyes.

"A fight?" Crew asked wide eyed.

"Are your parents not ok with it?" I asked at the same time.

Storm looked at me, "My Mom took it best and is dealing with it accordingly. She has the attitude of ‘it's been done already, let's move forward’. My Dad was pissed. He was angry at me and thinks I screwed up. He's a firm believer in a good career first, then marriage, then a baby, and then living happily ever after. What a fucking hypocrite," he muttered, taking a sip of his drink.

"And Skyler?" I asked carefully.

Storm shook his head, "Skyler and Dad have always had shit between them. It goes way back. Dad pressured Skyler to do better in school or to have more goals or ambitions; Skyler resisted and what not. I mean, we both were pressured, but I kind of took my Dad's advice while Skyler ignored it. Anyway, things were out of hand that night. Dad told Mom it was her fault that I got Kate pregnant and that Sky is gay. My Dad even slapped my Mom. Skyler got between them and that's when they started to throw some punches."

"No shit," Crew said in awe.

"Now I can't find him," Storm went on.

"Find who?" Crew asked in confusion.

"Skyler. I can't find Skyler."

"What do you mean? Where did he go?" Crew asked.

Storm sighed, "That's just it. I have no idea where he went or where he is right now. After their fight, Dad tried to apologize, but you know Skyler. He was pissed and just took off. Mom and I figured he needed time to cool off, but he never came home that night. When he wasn't home for dinner Sunday night, Mom got real worried and started to call around. She was able to reach Sky on his cell, but all he said was that he was safe and needed to be away for a bit. After that he must have shut off his phone, because no one could contact him since then. We don't have the same classes, so I haven’t seen him on campus. Have either of you two seen him?"

Crew and I both shook our heads.

Storm groaned, "This is just too much shit to deal with! I can't take it," he said miserably, "I have school. I want to be there with Kate when she's going to all her doctor's appointments. I want to be normal. I want to find my fucking brother!"

"Where is Kate now?" I asked.

"She was planning on staying in North Carolina to have the baby. I'm trying to convince her to stay around here, with me. I mean, she lives in upstate New York. I doubt she'll run into anyone who knows her. She can always hide out at my place or something. I don't really know. Everything is just a mess. I haven’t yet cleared up even a bit of it."

"So what's your plan?" Crew asked, "What's going to happen once she has the baby? Where are you going to live?"

I stood up with my empty cup, "Hey, I have a lot of homework to do. I really need to get back home and get started on it. Plus, I want to check on my grandmother," I said apologetically, "I'm sorry to bail so soon on you," I said to Storm.

"It's ok, Hiro. I understand. It is getting pretty late," he agreed, "Do you want to head home, too?" he asked Crew.

Crew shook his head, "No, I can stay. I have a late class tomorrow."

"Alright, I'll catch up with you guys later," I said glancing at Storm and patting his back before turning to Crew and placing a soft kiss on his lips, "Bye baby, I love you."

"I love you, too. Call me when you get home."

"I will," I promised.

As I passed Storm to get to the exit, I leaned down and said, "I'll do my best about Skyler."

"Thanks," he said gratefully.

I waved one last time to Crew, then headed outside, braving the cold as the wind hit my face.

*********

I walked into my house and saw that the kitchen and living room were empty and dark. My grandmother must have been sleeping already. It was only 9:30 but for a 75-year-old woman, that was considered late.

Careful to make as little noise as possible, I walked upstairs to my bedroom and quietly opened the door.

I spied an empty glass and a plate covered with cookie crumbs. I smiled and shook my head, knowing that my grandmother was probably feeding Skyler nonstop.

I glanced at Skyler who was asleep in my bed, the covers crumpled at his feet. He was wearing my sweat pants and sweatshirt. His black hair covered his face as he slept.

I took the plate and cup and went downstairs to the kitchen, rinsing them off quietly, as I recalled Saturday night and Skyler's arrival.

I was eating in the kitchen and my grandmother was down the street at a neighbor's.
Then there was insistent banging on the door. When I answered it, I came face-to-face with a very cold Skyler. He was wearing only a long sleeve shirt and his nose was red, probably from the windy weather.

There were some faint blood stains around his mouth and his cheek looked a little bruised.

"Can I come in?" he asked.

I nodded and moved out of the way, watching him as he sank into the kitchen chair and the warmth of my house.

I sat down across from him, and slowly resumed eating my dinner.

"I’ve had a bad night," Skyler said, "Is it ok if I crash here?"

I nodded, looking at him while I ate.

So Skyler had been staying with me since Saturday night. It didn't look like he had any intention of leaving tonight either.

He had been quiet and sullen-very un-Skyler like. Since it wasn't in my nature to press people, we never discussed why he was here. Now, after my coffee break with Storm and Crew, I had a little more insight into the whole situation.

However, he had told me some information. He didn't really want to talk to anyone, so he didn't want me telling anyone where he was, and that included Crew.

He also said that staying with a friend was better than going to a hotel. By staying with me, he had clothes and food. He hadn’t had a chance to pack in his haste to leave his mother’s place.

Lastly, he chose me because he knew I wasn't a big talker. He wasn't in the mood to have Crew asking him a billion questions, since he had originally thought of staying with Crew.

I agreed to everything he said. That left me in a tight spot as I now had to lie to Crew and to Skyler's very worried brother.

But this was serious. Skyler didn't have to say anything for me to be able to tell. Nothing really affected Skyler, but something clearly had rattled him. Whatever it was, it was enough to shut out his friends, so I respected his wishes.

I headed back up to my room. Skyler was still sleeping soundly. I took a quick shower and then settled into my sleeping bag. I had a feeling I would be sleeping on the floor for a little bit longer.

I took my phone and text messaged Crew, telling him I was really tired and wishing him a good night. I waited for his response before I tried to get comfortable in my sleeping bag.

I sighed and closed my eyes.

*************

"Thanks for letting me stay, Hiro," Skyler said as I emerged from the bathroom.

I saw him sitting on my bed wearing my jeans and my pale blue sweater.

"No problem," I replied easily, sitting beside him.

He smirked, "Not tired of me yet?"

I looked at him seriously, "You can stay as long as you need."

The small smile faded from his lips and he looked away from me, sighing.

"I'm sorry. I don't feel like going home. I don't feel like going to my apartment. I don't want to see or deal with my mom, Storm, Crew, or Zeke. I don't want to talk or answer questions. I just want all this shit to blow over!" He was panting as he flopped backwards onto my bed.

"Storm's worried about you," I murmured, "He's been looking for you."

Skyler sat up with a guilty look and covered his face with his hands and growled, "Shit, he doesn't need more to worry about, especially me! FUCK!"

"Storm told us about the baby, and the fight at your Mom’s," I said slowly, "I won't pretend I know what you're going through, but you and Storm can work together and help each other out. It's better than going through it alone or avoiding everything. You know it won't just go away. You're going to have to deal with it. The sooner the better," I advised.

Skyler looked at me from the corner of his eye, "Damn you Takashami," he muttered.

I smiled and patted his back, "I said you should deal with it. I didn't say you had to leave," I reminded him, "but since you're wearing my clothes on a daily basis, you're gonna have to pitch in with the laundry."

Skyler smiled, "Fine."

"Alright, I’ve got to get to class. See you later?"

He nodded. "Bye."

"Later."

**************

"Where the fuck have you been?" Storm called out when Skyler walked into their apartment.

I caught Skyler's eye but he didn't say anything to me or Crew, who was sitting on the couch beside me.

"Nice to see you too, bro," Skyler retorted as he walked to his bedroom.

"Sky, where the fuck did you go off to for the past week and a half?" Storm demanded, following him, "Do you know how worried everyone’s been? Especially Mom?"

"Listen, I just needed to get away for a bit, ok?" Skyler said exasperatedly as he walked towards the living room.

"I know that, but where have you been? I couldn't find you anywhere. I looked everywhere for you. I called everyone you know. Well not everyone-that would have been too many people. I thought you were with Zeke, but he didn’t know where you were either,” Storm pressed.

"No, I couldn't miss all my classes," Skyler said vaguely.

"Then where were you? I was going out of my fucking mind, Sky!" Storm demanded getting angry.

"Fucking hell, I was at Hiro's!" Skyler yelled finally.

I instantly felt Crew stiffen beside me.

"What?" Crew asked.

I turned to him, "Crew, I couldn't tell you," I began, feeling my stomach clench when I saw the hurt in Crew's bright blue eyes.

"Why not?" he asked.

“I told him not to," Skyler interrupted, "I didn't want anyone to know my whereabouts. The only reason I went to Hiro’s was because I knew he would just let me be."

Crew was frowning and biting his lip, most likely debating whether or not to be understanding or mad. Crew nodded at Skyler, but he avoided my eyes. I tried to take his hand, but he edged away from me.

"Crew," I said quietly.

"I'm going to head home," Crew announced standing up abruptly, making his way to the door.

"Crew, wait," Skyler said grabbing his arm, "Don’t be pissed, ok? I told Hiro not to say anything. I wanted to be left alone. I'm really sorry, but I just couldn't deal with everything. Don't be mad at him, alright?"

Crew nodded, "It's ok Sky, but I still need to get home."

Skyler released his arm but looked at me worriedly as I hurried after Crew.

"Crew," I said firmly grasping his wrist as I caught up with him in the hallway platform near the stairs.

He didn't say anything, but pulled away from me as he quickly descended the stairs, refusing to look at me.

"Crew, stop!" I said as I grabbed onto the back of his jeans as we landed on the ground floor. I literally yanked him backwards into me. His arms flew around as if trying to hold onto something, but there was nothing to grab. With a cry he became trapped in my arms.

"Hiro, don't!" he said as he struggled to get away from me. I wrapped one arm around his small waist while my other hand pinned both of his hands together in front of his chest.

"Let go of me," he ordered, twisting in my arms furiously, "Hiro, get off of me!"

"Crew, just listen to me," I started.

I tightened my hold on him and waited patiently for him to settle down, my nose burying in his neck. kissed his soft skin. He went rigid in my arms.

"Stop it, Hiro. Let go of me," he repeated, breathing hard.

"I'm sorry Crew, but I couldn't say anything to you. Please don't be mad about this. You didn't see Skyler that night he came by. He was really messed up. I had to promise him that I wouldn't say anything. I didn't want to lie to you and it killed me to do that, but," my voice broke, "Skyler and everything… I'm sorry Crew."

"A week and a half, Hiro," Crew said heatedly as he finally stilled in my arms, "everyone was worried for a week and a half. I was consoling Storm every day and even helped him look for Skyler. You were pretending to help when all along you knew where he was! How could you do that to Storm and me? How could you look me in the eye and lie about not knowing where he was? How could you lie to me? Me of all people?"

I hugged Crew tightly and swallowed hard when I heard Crew's small voice.

"I'm sorry, but I was torn, Crew. I didn't want to lie to you or Storm, but I didn't know how to be a good friend and a good boyfriend at the same time," I said.

"I love you. I didn't want to hurt or lie to you. You know that." At that comment Crew relaxed a bit. We both fell silent.

There was a long pause. "Fine, it was a tough situation," he said exhaling,
"I guess it was a special circumstance, but I don't want us to lie to each other. We're supposed to tell each other everything," Crew said twisting around so he was facing me and his face rested against my chest.

The tension fell away from my body and I hugged him harder to my chest.

"I know Crew. Of course I want to tell you everything and be completely honest. I love you too much to do otherwise. I'm sorry for hurting you, but I'm glad I was there for Skyler."

Crew's arms came around my lower back and he nestled in closer to me as I kissed the top of his head.

"So you'll excuse my bitch moment?" he asked, his voice muffled by my chest.

I smiled and rubbed his back, "Hey, we're all entitled to our bitch moments. I can understand why you were hurt. Just as long as we're still good."

"We're good," Crew mumbled.

"Good," I said peppering his neck with soft kisses, eventually claiming his red full lips, and slipping my tongue inside his mouth.

My eyes closed while I enjoyed our make-out session. My body got hot. Both of our hands began roaming the other’s body. Crew's scent effectively intoxicated me.

I pulled back, but kept my arm around his waist. "Come with me?" I asked, stepping ahead and holding out my hand to him.

Crew simply nodded and took my hand, clasping it firmly.

*************SKYLER**********

"So what was with the disappearing act?" Storm asked, sitting beside me on the couch after Crew and Hiro had taken off.

I sighed.

"I went crazy looking for you. How come you couldn't tell me where you were?" he continued with a hint of hurt in his voice.

Oh fuck, a longer guilt trip.

"Bro, I'm really sorry I bailed on you at dinner, but I just got so mad. And Dad…" I trailed off. I couldn't even continue.

Storm was silent.

"Yeah, dinner was a pretty big mess," he finally stated.

"No shit," I replied, but without sarcasm.

"Dad was a real prick."

"Totally," I agreed.

"Mom kicked him out after you left. She was about to call the police, you know."

I raised my brow, "Really?"

Storm nodded, "Yeah, she was furious when Dad hit you."

I shrugged.

"You ok?" Storm asked after a pause.

"Yeah," I responded, "You?"

Storm sighed, "Yeah."

Then we just sat.

"So, what's the deal with Kate? You talk to her anymore?" I asked after ten minutes of silence.

"Yeah. I convinced her to stay with me until she has the baby so I could be involved."

I nodded. Responsible Storm.

"Where is she gonna stay?"

"Either at Mom's or here, in my room, or at a hotel," Storm said, looking tired.

"She can stay here with you, in my room," I offered, "I can move in with Mom."

"Really?"

"Sure, it's better in the long run" I said dismissively. Then I faced him, looking serious once again, "Listen, while we're here and spewing our hearts out, I have to tell you something."

Storm looked at me expectantly.

"I never got a chance to tell you, but over winter break, Zeke, Mom, and I are heading to San Francisco to look at property," I explained and watched as Storm's face contorted with confusion and curiosity, "We plan to buy something, for me and Zeke to live in, when we move. After graduation," I finished waiting for his reaction.

Storm looked shocked and appeared speechless.

"You're going to move? To California?" he asked quietly.

I nodded, "Yeah, I want to try a different state, a change of scenery. Zeke and I want to live together, of course."

"Wow, I'll miss you," Storm said, "I mean, it's great, for you two, but I'll miss you." Then he looked at me, his eyes telling me how sad he was to see me go, even though I wasn't moving quite yet.

"Storm, I'll miss you, too. I feel like shit for leaving you just about when the baby arrives. Zeke and I were talking about postponing our move," I said.

Storm's eyes widened, "For me?"

I nodded.

He shook his head emphatically, "No way, you can't put your life on hold for me. You have to do what is best for you. I'll be ok, Sky. I'll have Mom; you know how she is. Please, I want you to go," he insisted.

I smiled, "I'll miss you, you know."

He smiled back, "Yeah, I know."

We simultaneously slumped onto the leather couch.

"So much shit has happened, overnight it seems like," Storm said, breaking our silence once again.

"Yeah, I feel like I aged ten years since last semester," I added.

Storm shot me an incredulous look. "Dude, I'm gonna be a Dad!"

I held up my hands, "Yeah, you win, totally!"

"I'm scared," Storm admitted.

"I know, but this is what growing up must be like," I said thoughtfully, "I can't say that I care for it."

Storm snorted, "I have to agree with you on that, bro."

"If you need me, you know I'll be on the first red-eye back to Jersey, right?" I said looking at my twin.

"I know."

Again we became silent; the realization that before we knew it, our lives would change dramatically, and we would be separated for the first time in our entire lives. It was not a good feeling at all.

I wanted a change, but I didn't know if I was ready for this.

 

---