AUTHOR'S POV   

Larry slowly awakens from the sound of the alarm clock and after shutting it off he stretches as he yawns. He looks over at his sweet Laurent and it's sunny mornings like these that he's able to look at his love who's incredibly beautiful as the sun kisses his skin while also allowing the full beauty of his face to be witnessed. He's careful not to wake him as he touches that face but he just can't resist. It's been a couple of days since Laurent spoke to the detectives and learned that the law prevents Samuel from being placed on trial again. Laurent's been so upset since then it's all he can think about. Larry is sleeping better and he's sure Laurent is relieved for that because he knows it hurts him whenever sleep is a struggle for him. Just like what happened on his first night home hurts him. That still frightens Larry...but Laurent has also been very quiet for the most part. The only time he speaks is when he's asking Larry if he's comfortable or if he needs anything. Larry watches him and his heart aches seeing his baby so upset...but he also wonders if there's something else Laurent's thinking about that he won't share with him. He isn't sure of his entire conversation with the detectives and the unknown makes him all the more curious. Larry has studied his face carefully and it seems as though he's more than just upset. It's as if he's deep in thought. Like he's planning something perhaps. Larry has spoken up about his concerns...but all Laurent tells him is that he's fine and not to worry. Of course that's impossible. Larry always worries about him when he's upset just as Laurent does the same. He doesn't want to press him too much to avoid upsetting him so he does hold back. He's reminded of what Laurent told him during their heart to heart at the hospital about failing him and not protecting him. Larry will never agree with that. Laurent's life mission is to love, honor and protect Larry with everything in him and he's stayed true to that mission so he never wants Laurent to take the blame for another person's evil actions. He can only hope that Laurent knows this and if he needs to remind Laurent that he's been the best partner of life he'll do that in a heart beat. Larry has been anticipating his return to work and as he's graded tests and papers he realized just how much he's missed his students. The day is finally here which means Laurent will be returning to work too. He will leave Laurent to sleep a little longer while he begins getting ready starting with a hot shower...

Laurent awakens to the soft sound of the shower running and right away he remembers what today holds. How happy bup will be in his element certainly brings a smile to his face...but he also hopes he can return without possibly watching his back or being afraid at some point. His work day will consist of worrying about those exact things. He also doesn't want to bombard his love with phone calls or texts because that could be put Larry on edge and that's the last thing he wants. They agreed to check in with each other so that's exactly what he will do. The shower water turns off and after a short run of the sink water Larry turns the door and walks out. Laurent is still tucked under the thick cover as he looks in that direction with groggy eyes...but eyes that are always delighted seeing him...

Larry: *smile* "Good morning". 

Laurent: *smile* "Good morning. You're a sight for sore eyes as always". 

Larry: *blush* "But I just wake up". 

Laurent: "Always beautiful". 

Larry: "You're so sweet baby". 

Laurent: *smile and wink* "I try". *pause* "You want me to cook breakfast this morning"?

Larry: "Thank you baby but you cook so much lately. I'll cook breakfast for you". 

Laurent: "Oki my love".

Larry: "Anything special you want"?

Laurent: "Whatever you cook will be fine bup. I'm going to get ready for work". 

Larry: "Oki. Breakfast will be ready soon".

Laurent flips the cover off of him to get out of bed and as Larry walks over to the dresser to get dressed Laurent stops by and plants a kiss on his cheek then heads for the bathroom. He didn't mention this to Larry but he did see a slight glow in his eyes and it certainly isn't hard to guess why. That alone settles his nerves a great deal and he can't wait to hear Larry share the details when they're having dinner together because he knows that glow will be even brighter which he can't wait to see. It will be interesting getting back to work on his end however. He loves his career but he's been away for weeks and he's also not sure if he'll be able to fully concentrate with his thoughts being all over the place. The only way to tell is when he's there...

When Laurent emerges from the bedroom he walks towards the dining table where his love has prepared a plate of eggs benedict with a side of fresh fruit. As Larry is bringing a pitcher of orange juice over he smiles...

Laurent: "Aww bup. I know this took some time and you didn't have to do this". 

Larry: "It was no trouble baby. I just want you to know how much I appreciate you and how you take care of me". 

Laurent: "Welcome my love". 

Larry: "Have a seat". 

Laurent gladly does as requested and Larry pours him a tall glass of juice then one for himself. They partake in breakfast which is stellar as they have a conversation in between. Laurent would be remiss if he didn't tell Larry how delicious the food is and Larry replies sweetly as always. Then he finally brings up that glow...

Laurent: "I look at your face and I can tell how excited you are". 

Larry: *smile* "Yeah I miss my little knuckle heads". 

Laurent: *chuckles* "I know". 

Laurent had never thought to answer this question but it just came to him and he thinks that perhaps it will put him a little more at ease...

Laurent: "You want me to take you to work"?

Larry: "No that's oki". 

Laurent: "You sure"?

Larry: "Laurent please". 

Laurent: "What is it"?

Larry: "Taking me to work won't feel like things are going back to normal. I don't see how it would help anything". 

Laurent: "Oki", he replies softly. 

Larry: *sigh* "I'm sorry baby. I know you're trying to look out for me but I feel like if you take me it will make me feel scared again and I don't want that". 

Laurent: "You don't have to apologize my love. I understand and I never want you to feel that way so driving yourself will be better".

Larry: *smile* "Then that's what I'll do". 

Laurent: *smile and wink* "Good. Now let's finish eating this great breakfast". 

Larry smiles then drops his head as they go back to their meals after which they take care of the dishes together then it's time to leave for work. They grab their briefcases which are right by the front door...but before they walk out...

Laurent: *smile* "I'll see you tonight my love". 

Larry: *smile* "Oki baby. I'll check in before I leave and when I'm home".

Laurent nods softly then leans forward to kiss his love warmly on the lips. He secures the alarm then they step outside into the crisp, cool air. Laurent locks the door then turns around and as Larry walks to his car he sees someone out of his peripheral. He turns his head in that direction and it's Don. Before the attack it was customary to smile and wave at each other. Now, it's awkward and as if they were never the neighbors they once were. He knows he's been cleared and who really hurt his love so Laurent feel it's only right that he has a conversation with Don to clear the air between them. He just can't do that now but tells himself that he will soon. For now, they turn their heads from each other and he catches up with Larry. They wink at each other then get in their cars and Laurent allows his love to back out of the driveway first then he follows as they leave separately for the first time in weeks...

*****

Walking through the hallways of his high school feels good for Larry. He does see a few students looking at him in curiosity but he merely smiles and keeps walking. He stops by the principal's office as well as the teacher's lounge to speak to his colleagues who welcome him back with exuberance. Then the moment is upon him when he gets to walk into his classroom. Just unlocking the door causes excitement to leap on the inside so imagine what turning the knob and walking inside feels to him. Other than his life with Laurent his classroom feels like home. Now at his desk he places his briefcase on top of it then begins taking out papers and getting prepared for the day. He catches the time and notices it's only a few moments before the bell rings. The instant every stack is neatly organized he hears the familiar sound and five seconds later the door opens with his students filing in right behind. The moment they see him they look shocked...but that shock is also accompanied by a smile. Suddenly those voices begin speaking to him and welcoming him back to which Larry receives it all warmly and reciprocates. There isn't one student absent. Even the class goof, Terrance, walks in and he doesn't waste any time...

Terrance: *smile* "Yo Mr. B"!

Larry: *smile* "Hey Terrance". 

Terrance replies back and now that everyone is in their seats Larry walks over to shut the door then back over to his desk to get started...

Larry: *smile* "So. It's been a long time and I know everyone is wondering what happened...."

He picks up the first stack of graded papers and as he steps behind his desk to begin passing them out he decides that he will tell them what happened which he's been back and forth about. Laurent also asked if he would tell them and he just wasn't sure...but as he told Laurent on his first day home he isn't embarrassed nor should he worry about his students giving him a reason to be...

Larry: "So here's the deal". *pause* "I was attacked in my home and I had to spend several weeks in the hospital but I'm feeling much better now and I missed you all very much". 

Several students look in confusion, some in remorse...but most of them show both. They were also surprised at how it all seemed to just roll off his tongue but if it's one thing the past few weeks have taught him is that he can't allow what happened to get or keep him down...

Larry: "I really enjoyed your papers and I'm looking forward to torturing you all with pop quizzes and more papers". 

The class laughs at the latter part of course because that's just like him. After the last paper is given to the last student he looks around and says with a smile, "let's get started". All of them smile in return but the next second he has a dizzy spell and has to grab on to the closest desk prompting instant concern from the student sitting at that desk...

Student: "Are you ok Mr. B"? 

Larry: "Yes I'm fine, thank you". 

Naturally this is as concerning to Larry as it is to not only the student who asked him but everyone else. He just tries to shake it off and appear as though he's not too worried even though he is so he goes back to his desk...

Larry: "Oki class. Turn to Chapter 18 in your books please". 

He puts on a brave face and for the next several hours he will put that dizzy spell to the side and focus on teaching...

*Laurent*

Laurent's return was as warmly welcomed as Larry's. There wasn't one person who didn't smile and stop to speak to him to tell him that they're glad he's back. Laurent has to admit that although he's been nervous about today it does make him feel good to have received such love. Just as Matt promised him they took very good care of his assistant, Briana, and made sure she had work to do so she wouldn't have to use personal time. Having weeks of work to catch up with he hasn't moved from his desk. Lunch was even called in so he could eat there instead of going out either by himself or with his colleagues. In between he's wanted to text Larry just to check on him but he doesn't want to appear overbearing. Normality. That's what they're both determined to have again but also thinking about their conversation at breakfast makes him hold back. It's mid afternoon now and Laurent doesn't have any meetings or consultations lined up so he expects to be at his desk until quitting time. When his cell phone rings his first instinct is to think it's bup so he quickly picks up the phone...but when he sees the detective's number his face reads confusion as he slowly answers...

Laurent: "Hello"?

"Hi. It's detective Marteau". 

*brief pause* 

Laurent: "How can I help you detective"?

The detective can't pretend he doesn't hear irritation in Laurent's voice and no question he understands why. He eventually pushes past the tone to tell him the reason he called...

Marteau: "I just wanted to call and ask how you and Mr. Bourgeois are doing". 

Laurent: *clears throat* "We're oki. Thank you". 

Marteau: "You're welcome and I'm glad to hear that". *pause* "I also wanted to make sure that you aren't thinking about...."

Laurent: "I know where you're going with this detective and I don't need you to talk for that. There's nothing you can do and there's nothing your partner can do so just move on to your next case".

Marteau: *soft sigh* "Mr. Bourgeois, as my partner said, you...."

Laurent: "Goodbye detective". 

He releases the call before the detective can return the goodbye. What Laurent can't see is the detective looking at his phone afterwards and whispering goodbye. Marteau also begins to feel bad because he feels as though there was something more, perhaps a lot more, he and his partner could have done to make sure Samuel didn't walk away. Now, extremely and understandably angry, who knows what Laurent might do and unless the detectives watch him like a hawk there wouldn't be anything they can do to stop him. It devastates him that he could possibly bring charges to Laurent because he's so engrossed in his emotions he wouldn't think rationally. He just blows out a sigh and goes back to his work. Meanwhile, Laurent has yet to go back to his. His phone is on the desk and he's just staring at it angrily...thinking to himself that detective Marteau can't possibly understand how this feels. His love has been damaged and Laurent feels completely helpless in doing something about it. Not only was this a heinous crime, it was a hate crime. He blows out a frustrated sigh and though he won't text Larry with numerous questions he picks up his phone to text him three very simple but very true words...I love you...

~hours later~

It's mid-afternoon and after a very productive day of teaching, the class has been dismissed for the day. Larry is at his desk finishing up some things before leaving to go home. It felt good to be back but throughout the day he has been thinking about his dizzy spell from this morning. He's reluctant to tell Laurent because he knows exactly how he'll respond. Instantly concerned and there's no telling what he might say or do...but he also isn't sure he should keep it from him. They never keep things from each other. The more he thinks about it the more he's certain it was just a side effect from his injuries. Perhaps he turned around too fast and it knocked his balance off. He's been taking it easy and he hasn't had another one since so he's positive that's exactly what it was so for the first time ever, he'll keep something to himself. He just hopes it's easy to do so... 

*please play clip below*

https://youtu.be/-zvQoPyY2XE

He's close to finishing when suddenly he hears a loud boom causing him to jump hard in fear. The sound appears to be coming from the window of which the parking lot is in full view of so he's thinking it was more than likely a car backfiring. He gazes in that direction for a few seconds before deciding he will creep over to it and take a look. He gulps as he stands then walks at a slow pace taking special care to stay close to the wall. When the window is right at his eyes he slowly turns his head and takes a peek. He sees an older car that has some smoke blowing from a pipe so he figures that must have been it. Not even realizing he practically stopped breathing he blows out a deep breath as he whispers, "it's oki Larry. It's just a car". He walks back over to his desk when suddenly he realizes the noise in the hallway has died down. That doesn't settle well with him so he begins gathering his papers and stuffing them into his briefcase in somewhat of a panicked state. Although it really was just a car that along with being alone is enough so he decides to leave. He walks at a fast paced to the door of his classroom but slows down to poke his head out to see if there's any activity at all. Seeing nothing he realizes that it's definitely time to go so he steps out then turns around to lock the door. He begins taking off down the hallway and just when he's at the double doors he can swear he hears creepy footsteps behind him...he won't dare turn around to see who it is. He picks up his speed and bursts through the double doors. He begins scanning the environment then turns his head and locks his eyes directly on his car. He just can't seem to get there fast enough. He unlocks the car door from his keys and when he's finally there he swings the back door open to throw his things inside then slams it before hopping into the driver's seat immediately locking the doors. He turns the engine on but he's too shaky to put the car in gear and drive off. Instead, he inhales deeply then slowly blows it out. A second later he's startled by a knock on the window so he jumps then looks. It turns out to be a fellow teacher so he's somewhat relieved...but it definitely caught him off guard. He has to take a few deep breaths before pushing the button to lower his window...

*music should be done*

Larry: "Yes Ms. Bourdin"? 

Bourdin: "Hi. I'm sorry to startle you but I saw you walking fast and you looked very frightened so I wanted to make sure you're ok". 

Larry: "Uh, yeah. I um.... " *deep sigh* "I just have to get home, that's all". 

Bourdin: "Are you sure"?

Larry: "I'm sure. Thank you". 

Bourdin: "You're very welcome. Be safe". 

Larry: "Thank you. You too". 

She smiles then walks off as Larry pushes the button for the window to slide up. He raises his right hand and looks at the shakiness running rampant through it then takes his left hand to grab it in an attempt to control it. He then realizes that this is check-in number one with his love so he takes out his phone and presses the button for him. Seconds later Laurent answers and Larry tries his absolute best to not sound as scared as he was just minutes ago. With a forced smile...

Laurent: "Yeah bup"?

Larry: "Hey baby. I'm on my way home so I'm calling to let you know". 

Laurent: "Oki my love. Thank you for calling me". 

Larry: "Welcome and I call you when I'm home too. Just like we agreed". 

Laurent: "Oki, but is something wrong"?

*brief pause* 

Larry: "I'm fine". 

Laurent: "You don't sound fine. What is it"?

Larry: "I'm just tired. It was a good day but I'm really tired". 

Laurent: "As long as you're sure bup". 

Larry: "I'm sure baby. I'll talk to you again soon. I love you". 

Laurent: "I love you too". 

Larry releases the call and tosses his phone to the side. Overwhelmed with emotions he presses his lips together as tears build in his eyes. He finally leaves the school grounds and heads home... 

*****

Larry remained focused on the road and the closer he was to home the less frazzled his nerves. Although pulling into the neighborhood did become a little unsettling. After all, the last time he came home from school was when it all happened. He pulls into the driveway and the engine is off and he's out of the car all at once before swinging the back door open again to grab his bag. It would have been easiest if he just left them inside and asked Laurent to get them later but he knows that Laurent would have known something was really up. Once inside their home he shuts the door and locks it rather quickly then dashes over to turn the alarm off. Immediately he goes from door to door, window to window making sure they're all locked and when he realizes it really is just him he breathes a sigh of relief. Now, he can call Laurent once more to check in...

Laurent: "You home bup"?

Larry: "I'm home baby". 

Laurent: *smile* "Perfect. I won't be here too much longer". 

Larry: "Oki". 

After another round of I love you's because let's face it, they can never go without the opportunity to exchange those words, it's time for Larry to prep for dinner. He can't help but think how he said "oki" to Laurent saying he won't be at work too much longer. Before he would have told him not to rush...but it might be a while before he can say those words again. Laurent is his safety so the quicker he comes home the more at ease he will feel. Much like his earlier thoughts, he can only hope that his face doesn't read the matter of his dizzy spell and how frightened was. For now, he'll get dinner prepared as he waits for his love...

*****

Laurent: "Bup I'm home", he calls out sweetly. 

Larry is standing at the kitchen island putting the finishing touches on the hot meal when he hears that voice and it does make him smile...but he finds himself trying to fix his face essentially so that when Laurent comes into the kitchen everything appears normal...

Laurent: *smile* "Hey you". 

Larry: *smile* "Hey baby". 

Laurent walks around the island then gently wraps his arms around him and kisses the tip of his ear...

Laurent: "I missed you", he whispers.

Larry: "I missed you too", he whispers back. 

Larry turns only his head around so they can connect eyes and engage in a sweet kiss. Afterward, Laurent turns around to retrieve a bottled water out of the fridge and take a few sips. He watches his love for a minute before asking...

Laurent: "You need help"?

Larry: "No I got it baby". 

Laurent: "Oki. Well I'm going to change clothes". 

Larry: "That's perfect because I just finished".

Laurent stops next to him to give him another kiss only it's to his temple this time then he takes off to change while Larry prepares their plates. He brings them to the dinner table then goes back for the pitcher of tea. When he walks back into the dining area he sees Laurent walking over and they sit down to feast. Only a minute later...

Laurent: *smile* "I know you can't wait to tell me how school went today". 

Larry: *chuckles* "It was really good. Everything was the same. Like I never had to be away". 

Laurent: *smile* "That's great my love". 

Larry gives him a small but sweet smile then drops his head to his plate. He never even felt his face change...but Laurent wouldn't miss it so his smile fades...

Laurent: "Something's wrong". 

Larry: "I'm oki baby". 

Laurent: "I don't think so bup. What is it"?

Larry sighs then slowly drops his fork to the plate. He knew he wouldn't be able to hide it. Even if his face didn't show it, Laurent can just sense when something is wrong...

Larry: "I got dizzy this morning". 

Laurent: "What"?

Larry: "Yeah. I passed some back papers then I got really dizzy but it went away". 

Laurent: "Then I need to get you to the doctor and I think you should eat this in bed. I'll bring a tray".

Larry: *soft sigh* "Laurent, baby. See this is why I didn't want to tell you because I know you worry". 

Laurent: "Of course I'm worried bup. We need to take care of this. I'll call the doctor and ask when he can see you". 

Larry: "Baby I'm fine. I think I just moved too fast because it didn't happen again. I took it easy". 

Laurent: "But I don't want to take any chances. I should take you to see a doctor and make sure you're oki". 

*brief pause* 

Larry: *nods* "Oki".  

Laurent: "Good. I'll call him first thing in the morning". 

Larry nods again then goes back to his food. Just when he thought it was over...

Laurent: "What else is wrong"?

Larry: "I got scared after school. A car made a loud noise in the parking lot and I thought it was something else. When I didn't hear a lot of noise I thought I was alone so I decided to come home. When I was walking to my car I got scared again...but I don't think it will last past today baby. I think it's just because it was my first day back". 

Laurent instantly clinches his jaws in anger at the thought of bup being so afraid. Even Larry stating that he doesn't think it will happen again wasn't enough. Just the fact that it happened was all Laurent needed to know. They eventually resume and finish dinner and after washing dishes together Larry went to the bedroom only Laurent told him he'll be there soon. He  waits until Larry closes the door to walk over to the computer and there are only two words he types in the search engine. Samuel Picard...

--------------------------- 

A/N: So, what is everyone thinking? Was Larry just nervous or was someone there? What about his emotions before driving off? Sound off in the comments! Love you guys. :)