Johnny couldn't help but feel sad when he saw the state that his partner was in. That terrible familiar paleness had returned to his face, and he just looked so tired. It reminded him of the before times, back when Jimmy ruled their lives. It pained him to have to relive these things. He forced himself to remain composed, at least while Gavin was around. He watched as his brother lumbered up to Ghost, crouching next to him.

"You're fuckin' metal, dude. I'm glad you're ok." Gavin sighed, a tiny smirk on his face. There was a surprising amount of warmth in his voice. Ghost looked incredibly pleased.

"Thanks. Are you gonna be alright?"

"I should be. What about you?"

"I will be. Always am."

"Good. You better keep me updated."

"We will, big man. Don't worry about it." Ghost chuckled. Gavin nodded, giving him an impressively gentle pat on the shoulder before heading out into the hallway. Johnny stepped forward, carefully taking Ghost's cool hand into his own.

"I can't say I agree with your tactics, Sir."

"I know you don't."

"... you just enjoy grinding my gears, don't you?" Johnny questioned. Ghost gave him a mischievous grin.

"Maybe I do. But I promise I'll come up with something less destructive next time, ok?"

"If you say so. Do you need anything else before I let you sleep?"

"I think I'm ok."

"Alright-" Johnny glanced over his shoulder, making sure Gavin wasn't watching. "-goodnight, darling." he whispered. Ghost's smile grew softer, his grip on his hand tightening just a bit.

"g'night, handsome."

Johnny leaned down, giving him a small sweet kiss. His partner gladly returned it. Pulling away, he turned to see that Gavin was now staring at him with his mouth agape. Johnny stood, gently closing the door. As soon as they were out of earshot Gavin scoffed.

"Holy shit. When's the wedding?"

"Probably not for a while."

"Well-... wait, did you just admit it?!"

"Yes! Yes, I did. We're together, ok?"

"I knew it! No wonder you two share the bed~"

Johnny rolled his eyes.

"Oh hush, it's not about that. It's more about companionship than anything."

"So you guys don't... you know."

"... that's none of your business."

Gavin laughed. Johnny couldn't help but smile, shaking his head. As annoying as it was, it was nice to see his brother happy. It was especially nice considering the reason he was happy was legal. The two stepped out into the stairwell.

"Oh how I love being right~!" Gavin sang. Johnny playfully rolled his eyes.

"You must love being an idiot as well."

"Oh for sure. ... but you know, as much as I rib on you guys I'm glad that you're happy. You two seem good for each other."

Johnny was surprised by how genuine his twin was being. Usually he struggled to take anything seriously at all. Anything other than drugs and money, that is.

"That means a lot, Gavin. Thank you."

"Whatever. How long have you two been together anyhow?"

"Oh not long, a little under a year. We wanted to make sure he was stable and "jimmy free" before we made anything official."

"Ah, makes sense. Alright, I'll head out now. But I'm serious, you two better let me know how things go. I expect a call first thing tomorrow!"

"If "first thing tomorrow" means sometime in the afternoon then don't worry about it. I have a feeling Sir and I will be sleeping in quite late."

"Shit, me too. ... see you later, Johnny."

"Goodnight, Gavin."

Johnny decided to press his luck and offered a hug. He figured enough had happened tonight that he might need it. Gavin stared at him for a moment before surprisingly accepting it, hugging him loosely. Johnny knew his twin had never really been one for physical contact. The last time he could remember them hugging was at their grandfather's funeral no less than 17 years ago. After a moment the two pulled away. Gavin didn't say anything after this, instead giving him a tiny nod before turning to leave. Johnny stood in the hallway, making sure Gavin left successfully before returning to the apartment. He peeked into the bedroom. Ghost had already passed out, his quiet snoring filling the silence. He sighed, taking a look around the living room. He decided it would be best to clean up at least some of the mess before he joined his partner. He emptied the bowls and threw the towels in the wash, picking up all the tiny bandage scraps that were left on the coffee table. After that he just took a minute to stare at what was left of the table. He was surprised by how easily it broke. Despite gaining a bit of healthy weight, Ghost was still very light. Johnny tried hard to fight his sleepiness as he quickly washed up. The thought of making it to bed motivated him to stay upright. He soon got to give in to his exhaustion, lowering himself into bed. He just laid there for a while, watching his partner. Ghost seemed to be sleeping pretty well, all things considered. Johnny just hoped he could say the same for himself.