11:39pm

Hey guys you ready for some self promo? I am writing a new book called "Ten Years" about Virgil n' stuff - if you want to read it's on my page!

Trigger warning: mentions of abusive parents, mentions of dead body, mentions of drugs, hospitals

Au
—

Roman and Logan stumbled up the porch to Logan's home, both men giggling quietly to themselves, even if it was very out of character for the usually stoic and well-behaved Logan. Something about Roman brought out his more...rebellious side, and somehow made him giggle uncontrollably over stupid things as if he were a child.

At the start, he wasn't so keen on Roman's affects, but after four months of dating the man, he felt like he couldn't live without him.

Now, a week after their four month anniversary, Logan finally decided to let Roman meet his parents. He had wanted Roman to meet them sooner, but his dad wasn't...the kindest man in the world, and with three kids, he was going to keep a very close eye on anyone his children brought home - especially if it was a boy.

He wasn't homophobic, heck, he was bisexual! He just knows how male teenagers act, as he was one once in the past.

Logan couldn't recall the amount of times he told Roman to at least try and act like a grown up and not the childish seventeen year old he was, but Roman couldn't help it, he was a brave, prince-like child at heart, and if something made him laugh, he was going to laugh.

Logan knew the inevitable, and by the end of the night he was sure his father would be in jail for murdering his sons boyfriend, but he could hope, right?

"Okay - act as if you're not five years old" Logan scolded lightly, waiting until Roman stopped chuckling before he opened the dark brown mahogany door. Roman stepped in behind him, not trying to keep it subtle as his jaw slacked a little and his eyes trailed around the large foyer he stood in.

"It's beautiful" Roman commented softly, gaze trailing over everything, down to the small things like little ornaments and touches added to the walls to make the house feel more homely.

Roman breathed in the scent of spices, realising quickly that down the hallway, someone was cooking dinner. He never felt like this before, content in a house, the warmth of home spreading through his body, making him relax. Now he was jealous, he's never felt like this before.

Tugging off his jacket, he turned to Logan who had already slipped off his shoes, Roman quickly doing the same afterwards.

Footsteps thudding down the grand staircase before them caught both boys attention. They looked over and spotted Virgil - he was one of Logan's siblings - the oldest, actually. He had returned for break, and was staying in his old room, one that was mostly cleared from his stuff when he moved out to college.

His dark eyes trailed up and down Roman's body, narrowing once they met his eyes.

"Who's this?" He muttered, directing it at his younger brother, but keeping his eyesight locked on the boy who stared straight back, not even slightly intimidated, but he didn't make himself out to be rude, he was just staring back with a faint, charming, grin.

"Virgil, this is Roman, Roman, this is Virgil, my brother"

"Older brother" Virgil quipped, finally padding down the last few steps before nearing Roman, squaring the man up slightly. They were surprisingly the same height, but Virgil had leverage as this was his families house, meaning he could kick Roman out whenever he pleased.

"He is my boyfriend" Logan clarified, watching with anticipation to see his reaction. It was the first time he brought someone home, and when he saw how Virgil and their parents reacted to Patton's few boyfriends, he knew he would have to keep Roman up to his best behaviour.

"Not if I can help it" Virgil replied back lowly, but this earned a different reaction to what he was expecting. Roman grinned wider, biting his bottom lip softly.

"Greetings, ah..." he took in the dark clothing covering Virgil's body. "Mr. Emo nightmare himself"

Logan couldn't wait until they were alone so he could punch Roman so hard he forgets his own name. He was talking as if his two and a half hour speech they shared just yesterday meant nothing! He had binders and everything, telling him how to act a certain way so it might be a possibility that he was allowed back in the future!

Dammit, Roman, it's as if you don't want this to work out!

Virgil leaned back at the remark, crossing his arms across his chest. "You look like you walked out of a Disney movie" Virgil fired back, voice low and grumpy. Roman looked down at his mostly white attire, a few markings here and there showing off gold and red.

It made the boy giggle, who lifted his head up to meet his gaze once more, a gaze that hardened. "You noticed? How kind" this made Virgil scowl but he didn't say more other than shoot Logan a look that screamed 'he's-never-coming-back-here' before stalking down the hallway to the kitchen.

Logan whirled around to face his boyfriend who brushed a hand through his hair, still grinning!

"I think that went well" he commented offhandedly, yelping when Logan swatted his arm harshly.

"Went well?! You called him, and I quote, "Mr. Emo nightmare himself! What does that even mean?"

Roman snorted, waving off his dramatics to pull him into a short yet sweet kiss. "He wouldn't have liked my reaction, whatever it was, so I chose the one I was most comfortable with" Roman justified, smirking in amusement as Logan let out a indigenous snort, pushing himself away from the taller boy.

"Let me be myself, Logan, if they don't like me for me, then that's their problem" Roman spoke softly, wrapping his arms around his waist to pull him into another soft kiss, one Logan didn't want to melt into, but he physically couldn't help himself, so he gave in, coiling his arms around the man's neck to hold him close.

They split apart instantly when they heard someone clear their throat. The sound was deep, and screamed whoever was standing behind them right now was the 'macho man' - or, the father of the house hold.

Spinning around on his heel, Roman spotted the cameral eyes of Logan's father. Authority crashed around him like waves, his dark clothing and built body would probably make anyone want to submit to him - or run away when they caught sight of the icy glare that shot from his eyes like red lasers, but it didn't seem to affect Roman at all.

Logan always knew that Roman didn't become scared easily, hell, Logan has never actually seem Roman scared, while vice versa it was the opposite. Logan didn't get scared too often, and he could defend himself pretty well if needed, but when it came to grades, he always was a petrified puppy, until he eventually caught sight of the bright red capital A's, and he would relax in an instant.

Roman thought it to be adorable.

But from his reaction to his father alone, it made Logan think, and realise if he wasn't scared of the hulk who was standing directly before him, something must've happened in the past that was worse, something so scary that it made him immune to anything else that wasn't up to par.

"Who are you?" Logan's father demanded in a gruff tone, making Logan wince. He went to reply, but felt his stomach drop when Roman bet him to it. Of course.

"Greetings, I am Roman" the tall boy responded, throwing his arms up a bit eccentrically as he did. It made Logan slap a hand to his face.

"And you must be Mr. Sanders, it is wonderful to meet you" Roman clasped his hands together, waiting for a reply that came almost instantly, not backing down when Mr. Sanders took a step forward. "I don't care about your name, why are you in my house?" He spat, the tone of his voice telling both boys if Roman didn't answer in one second he will be out.

"Ah! I see, Logan invited me around to dinner - if he hasn't already told you, I'm his boyfriend" Roman clarified, the word making the man stiffen, now face inches apart from Roman who cocked his head to the side, staring at him with a friendly gaze, pondering what he would say next.

"Boyfriend?" Mr. Sanders echoed, "You are not his boyfriend until I allow it"

"Ah, good parenting is so hard to come by these days while you nail it on the head"

"Don't try to suck up to me, boy"

"I think it's called being polite-"

"Roman, shut up before I let him castrate you" Logan demanded lowly, reaching over to grab his hand, tugging him away from his father who stared down at their contact as if it were the plague. "I will introduce you to my mother" Roman nodded and sent a small wave to Mr. Sanders who stood in the hallway, staring curiously at Roman as he left. He didn't want to sound cocky, even though he did, but it baffled him slightly when he wasn't at least a bit intimidated.

He remembered Virgil's and Patton's boyfriends basically cowering in fear when he only entered the room. He was different, and Mr. Sanders didn't know if it was a good different.

"Oh, Logan, you're here!" The soft voice of Logan's mother chirped, dashing around the island counter to get to her son, kissing him a few times on his face.

"Mother, must you?" He sighed out, unable to hide the slight pink twinge sprawling across his face.

"Yes, every time" she winked, standing up straight while ruffling Logan's hair. From the corner of her eye, she noticed Roman standing by the doorway, eyes fixated on the scene that was displayed before him. The sight made her light up, because this was the first time Logan has brought someone home!

"Oh! Hello! I'm Laura" she greeted giddily, shaking Roman's strong grip. "Greetings, Laura, I'm Roman, Logan's boyfriend" he learned he should probably clarify that from the beginning. This made her gasp, snapping her head around to stare at Logan who shifted under her gaze, folding his hands behind his back.

Then, the happiest smile stretched out across her soft pink lips, and she turned to Roman once more, her dark yet brightly shimmering eyes holding everything Roman needed to know. She was ecstatic, and unlike Mr. Sanders and Virgil, trusted the boy instantly. She knew her son more than he knew himself! And if Logan trusted someone enough to date, then she trusted him, too.

"Is it alright if I stay for dinner?" He asked politely, the tone earning a grunt of disapproval from the table sitting opposite the kitchen. Only then did the two notice Virgil, who looked up from his phone to glare at the boy who only smiled back.

"Virgil, be nice"

"But-"

"My house, my rules" she shot him a look, waiting until he sighed, mumbling incoherently under his breath while turning back to his phone.

"Don't worry about him, he's a kitten really"

"Mom!" He exclaimed in total embarrassment. Though, it made Roman chuckle, sending a soft smile at Virgil to show he wouldn't tease him about it.

"And of course you can stay!" She agreed, shooing him and Logan over to the table as she turned back to her kitchen, the part of the house she ruled. And not because she was a "woman" but because she genuinely loved to cook, it was her favourite pass time and always relaxed her. She was so good Gordon Ramsay would have trouble keeping up to par with her.

Roman settled in the seat opposite Virgil, Logan sitting beside him on the left so he could be closer to his dad, ready to kick his leg if he tried anything. Roman rested his chin on his hands, delicately staring at the darkly dressed boy before him until he decided to speak up.

"Your makeup looks wonderful, Virgil" the compliment slipped past his lips and through Virgil's ears, and the words were so foreign his brain had a hard time deciphering what he said. His gaze averted up to meet Roman's outstandingly amber eyes, the light shaded foundation able to cover the slight sprinkle of pink he felt dust across him.

"Uh- I'm not the one who's your boyfriend" he shot back, unable to reply with at least a thank you. Roman chuckled, turning to face Logan who sighed, resting his arms on the table.

"Your makeup looks wonderful, Logan" He grinned cutely, finding it amusing because Logan wasn't and never would wear makeup. Either way, the man blushed, shaking his head at his romantic partner. The two carried on talking quietly, sometimes sharing soft compliments, Roman obviously sending more than receiving them, but he didn't mind. Virgil was a little uncomfortable at first, because he could easily hear what they were saying, but even if he wanted to be that older brother that hates any of his siblings boyfriends, he just...couldn't.

Roman was definitely someone he could argue with, and probably become mad at, but he was also someone he could have that certain friendship with. The one that consisted of throwing insults at the other but not meaning it at all. A few light banters and bickers sprinkled in between, of course.

There was a brief silence, and in that short pause, the youngest sibling bounced into the room. Patton.

His eyes landed on his mother who was at the counter, making the last preparations to the food she was almost ready to serve up. The giddy boy rushed over, wrapping her in a tight hug, earning a shriek of loud laughter, her arms wounding around her son back. He was fifteen, yet had the energy and innocence of a child. They were always most protective over him, as he would trust anyone who was remotely kind to him, even though all they wanted was either money, or his body, etc.

Not one of his boyfriends have ever been approved. He needed someone special.

"It smells amazing in here, mama!" Patton exclaimed with a giggle, his attention immediately caught by the boy dressed in white who had turned to face the newcomer, eyes piercing into his own. A gasp left his lips as he rushed over, staring brightly at the boy who grinned back. Virgil tensed, ready to pounce on Roman if he needed to.

"Greetings, you adorable boy you" Roman cooed, drawing out a blush and giggle from Patton who sat on the chair next to him, body faced to him entirely.

"Hi! I'm Patton! Are you Logan's friend?" He asked enthusiastically, thrilled at the idea his usually lonely brother had someone to hang out with.

"I'm his boyfriend, too"

This made Patton gasp, but louder this time, before he sat up a little in his chair. Roman watched with a coy smile, wondering if "protectiveness" ran in this families genes.

"Don't hurt him" Patton murmured, looking over at Virgil who snorted in amusement, but he had a smug expression dawning his features. "I won't let that happen" Virgil warned, still a little ticked by the fact Roman didn't feel threatened at all. Damn, this boy was made out of steel.

"I will protect your brother with my life" Roman replied back, smiling reassuringly at Patton who nodded his head, turning forward in his chair, although he lifted his legs under his body so he seemed taller.

The statement made Logan straighten a little in his seat, eyes staring at Roman who leaned down to peck his cheek. "I promise" he whispered against his skin, forcing out a small smile from the boy who felt his heart flutter in his chest. Emotions. How he only loved the ones that came from this boy.

Once dinner was being served up, Mr. Sanders finally made his appearance, striding over to the end of the table, Logan on his left while Laura took a seat at his right. Patton stayed glued to the spot beside Roman, even though usually he moves around the table a few times before finding a place he was most comfortable in.

"So, Roman" Laura grinned, eyes sparkling like stars. "Tell us about yourself"

He could feel Virgil and Mr. Sanders eyes boring into him as they waited for a reply they were both very intrigued about. Patton was more focused on the glorious food that slid down his throat, while Logan kept his head titled down, silently praying that this would go well.

"Well" he swallowed his food before carrying on, "I love theatre, being on stage brings such an exhilarating feeling, one I cannot simply describe - although sometimes it does take up a lot of my time, I am able to work around it to fit in studying, and of course hanging out with my favourite person" he looked at Logan who nearly choked on his food, staring back at him with a look that ordered him to not act romantic at the table, but what could Roman say? He loved being affectionate.

Laura cooed, gesturing for him to carry on, but Mr. Sanders butted in.

"Do you play sports?"

Roman casted his eyes away for a few moments, shaking his head softly. "I've never enjoyed sports, long runs and attending the gym is more my style - although, I haven't been in quite awhile...I should try and get back into it" he admitted with a sheepish grin, looking at the man of the table to see if what he said was suitable.

He held his cutlery in his hands, staring at Roman coldly. "Your father disappointed his son doesn't like sports?" This silenced Roman for a little, everyone at the table knew this pulled a harsh cord, because Roman lowered his head, eyes focused on the plate of food as he tried to come up with a response, but it was harder than he would have liked to admit.

"You don't have to answer, Roman" Laura reassured gently, but Roman shook his head, forcing out a strained chuckle. "I shouldn't be so hesitant..." he drifted off, unable to meet anyone's gaze. He felt like he should tell them, though, besides Logan still didn't know, and he felt like this was as best time as any.

"He passed away when I was five" Roman finally pushed out, lips dropping into a straight, tight line when he vividly remembered opening the bathroom door on his birthday to see the floating body of his father, hanging from the ceiling with a slight wave of his body.

"But" he carried on almost instantly, "that is behind me now, and until they invent a time machine, I cannot change the past" he joked, silently telling everyone he was fine about what happened, and he really put it behind him, but the hesitance on his response still made them all feel uneasy.

"I'm so sorry, Roman" Laura murmured with a sympathetic frown, but Roman quickly waved it off, telling her it was alright. The table fell to silence for a few moments afterwards until Patton broke into conversation, everyone including themselves every once in awhile to move past that awkward tension.

Nearing the end of their meal, Patton only had a few more bites until he was finished, but like every meal they shared, they always waited until everyone was done until they left.

In the midst of a short silence, they heard the vibrations of a phone against wood. Roman blushed, gently pulling his phone from his pocket, reading the ID. It was his mom. Logan noticed this too, a little confused when Roman hung up and put his phone onto do not disturb.

"Who was that?" Virgil spoke up curiously but also suspiciously. "Hm? Oh, a friend from school" he dismissed, smiling at Patton after he cleaned his mouth with his napkin.

"I finished!"

This made Laura smile and stand up, with the help of her sons they all cleared the table. Roman went to help too but Mr. Sanders shot him a look that demanded him not to move.

"When are you expected home?" Roman stared at him for a few moments, blurting out the first number he could think of. "Nine o'clock" he grinned, watching as he stared at him intently, leaning forward slightly, but it seemed whatever he did, no matter how intimidating he forced it to be, Roman was utterly and completely relaxed, not nervous at all.

Mr. Sanders couldn't tell if he liked that or not.

"Roman, do you wish to part to my room?" Logan questioned, eyes trailing over to his father, silently asking him if that was alright. Mr. Sanders stared at Roman for a few moments, letting out a quiet sigh. He couldn't place it on what, but something about Roman was...different. A kind of different he never expected from one of his sons boyfriends.

When he found out they would be bringing home men instead of girls, he definitely hardened up a little. He knew what the male teenage spices were like, and he couldn't bare the thought of his children being hurt. Which was why he couldn't understand the boy sitting before him - not once has he come across a kid who was so relaxed in his presence, and he couldn't tell if he liked it, or hated it.

He waved his hand, raising from his chair.

"Keep the door open" he warned, giving permission to the two boys who quietly parted from the room and to the second floor. Mr. Sanders sighed, moving around the kitchen to hug his wife from behind, pressing short kisses across the side of her neck, smiling at the cute laughter that filled the air around them.

"Angelo?" She murmured into his skin, her head tilted towards him, hand in his hair, playing with the strands lightly. He hummed in response, grip tightening around her as he prepared for what was coming.

"Will you clean the dishes?"

Angelo sighed but smiled anyway, letting her go relax in the living room as he cleaned everything up. He really didn't mind, as she did cook a spectacular meal, and it was only fair if he cleaned up afterwards.

Meanwhile, Logan found a loophole, leaving the door only slightly open, as his father never specified.

Roman had already explored nearly everything he had in his smaller room, as he really didn't have much. He preferred living in a more quaint bedroom - heck, this wasn't even originally a bedroom! He just couldn't stand sleeping in such big rooms, it made him feel uncomfortable, and always found it hard to sleep.

Two hands rested on his cheeks, following their lead as they tilted his head back, his eyes meeting with Roman's who stared at him with adoration, leaning down to gently kiss his lips, both men parting them to slip their tongues into the others mouth, embarrassingly drawing out a moan from the smaller boy who wore glasses.

"Not here" Logan whispered, cracking his eyes open as he split apart. Roman nodded in understanding, instead he took Logan's hand, pulling them over to the bed where they laid down and cuddled, unable to think of doing anything else, they just wanted to be pressed up against the other, warm and cosy in their embrace.

Time passed by surprisingly slow, letting the two savour the time spent together. In the four months they've dated, not once have they cuddled on a bed, as neither have taken the other one home. They've spent time at their friends house, but obviously they had to engage in conversation with said friend, otherwise it would be an awkward third wheel-fest.

Roman had traced invisible pictures into his skin, smiling at Logan's different reactions whenever he would touch particularly sensitive body parts. For example, he couldn't help but squirm and giggle ever so quietly whenever Roman would lightly touch his stomach, and he would relax completely when his fingers glided over his sides.

The taller boy watched with fascination, completely smitten with the boy he laid with.

The noise of footsteps walking down the hallway caught their attention, and Roman gently pushed Logan's shirt back down, moving his arm back around his waist to make it look as innocent as possible, all the while staring at Logan's face. His eyes were shut, and a peaceful smile laid on his lips, he looked so adorable and kissable.

"Ahem"

Roman turned his attention to Mr. Sanders who stood in the doorway, arms crossed, eyebrow risen. As much as he wanted to hate what he was watching, he couldn't, it was weird, but it looked so...loving.

"I'm here to take you home" he clarified, watching Roman nod and press a gentle kiss to Logan's lips. He was completely passed out, and Roman didn't have it in him to wake the boy up, so as quietly as he could he wrote him a short note and placed it on the pillow before grabbing some belongings he brought over, pausing in front of Logan's Dad with a smile.

All the man did was grunt, letting Roman leave first so he could close the door silently behind him. He was having a hard time debating whether or not he liked Roman, or if this was an act, and he was possibly using Logan for other reasons.

Yet, even as he thought this, he couldn't force himself to believe it.

"Leaving so soon?" Laura asked upon seeing Roman standing by the door, pulling his jacket back onto his body. The boy smiled politely, kissing the back of her hand. She giggled, glancing at Angelo who rolled his eyes.

"I'm afraid I must - thank you for that wonderful dinner, I haven't eaten such delectable foods in what feels like forever" Roman overly dramatically complimented, but he meant every word. It brought a light blush to Laura's cheeks as she swatted his arm gently, chuckling with him.

"You're too sweet, we're having a barbecue this Friday, we would all love it if you could join!" Roman lit up at the idea, but paused when Mr. Sanders let out a quiet groan.

"Laura" he sighed, giving her a look. She waved him off, raising her eyebrow at Roman in wait for his answer.

"I would love to, but if my presence is unwanted, I would understand" Roman glanced at Mr. Sanders as he said this, and for once, he felt just a pang of guilt hit at his chest, but it was gone the moment it was there. Fuck. What was wrong with him? What's so different in this boy then any other boy that his sons have brought over?

"Oh, ignore him, he's just like Virgil, we would love your company, especially Logan" she winked, making him laugh softly, bobbing on his feet as he debated what to say in his mind.

"I..." he paused, glancing at his front pocket that held his phone. He sighed, straightening up, ready to politely decline her offer, but when he saw her excited expression, he couldn't possibly say no.

"That would be wonderful. What time shall I be here?"

"The guests arrive at seven, so why don't you come at five? Gives us time to learn more about you!" She ruffled his hair affectionately, content with the laughter she once again drew from him. She could see the happiness beaming in his eyes, but it wavered...as if another emotion was there too..almost like he was sad.

Why would he be sad?

"It's getting late, I should be on my way.." Roman drifted, spotting the time on the clock in the foyer. He didn't actually have a time to arrive home, he just didn't want to overstay his welcome as he could sense Mr. Sanders becoming agitated the more time that went by.

"Of course! Angelo, meet him in the car" she sent him a coy smile, waiting until he sighed out loudly, passing by to exit the home. Once the car door slammed shut, Laura pulled Roman into a tight hug, one he wasn't expecting at all, but he hugged back either way, relaxing into her comfortably.

"Thank you for making my Logan happy" she whispered, patting his cheek before ushering him out the house, quickly asking him to tell his mother she said hello.

Once he entered the car, he hummed with the warmth that surrounded him, raising his cold hands to the plastic grates that pushed out warm air.

"Where's your house?"

Roman paused, hesitant.

"The apartment block opposite the marsh" he explained quietly, feeling ashamed he lived in such a grubby part of town while Logan lived in the richest street. But, Mr. Sanders didn't judge him - at least, from what Roman could detect - as he silently nodded his head and turned on the radio, driving the black car down the street.

Leaning back in the plush leather, Roman smiled lightly, arms crossed over his chest to preserve the body heat he needed to rush up to the apartment.

"Listen" Mr. Sanders spoke up, surprising Roman a little, but he turned his attention to him either way.

"Laura may like you, but I don't" he stated, not noticing the hurt that flashed through the boys eyes as he slumped in the seat. "So don't try anything on Friday, got it?"

"Of course, sir. I wouldn't dream of it..." Roman hadn't meant to say 'sir' it just...slipped. Mr. Sanders tensed a little upon hearing it, glancing at Roman from the corner of his eye to see he was obviously embarrassed himself.

"Right" he nodded, and the rest of the drive was silent.

Once he pulled up to the large building, he didn't shut off the engine, instead he waited for Roman to leave. Weirdly, it took awhile for him to do so, and Mr. Sanders rolled his eyes.

"Don't have all day, kid"

"Oh, uh, sorry.." he drifted, opening the car door to step out onto the cracked pavement. "Thank you" he murmured gently, sending Mr. Sanders a small smile that seemed forced, but he didn't think much of it, instead he watched Roman close the door and walk up to the building with his arms over his chest tightly. It wasn't even that cold.

With narrowed eyes, he couldn't help but gaze at the boy as he clambered up the metal steps, reaching the top floor and walking down a few doors before he stopped outside of one. The door was red, but from this distance, he could barely see the chipping paint.

From the window next to it, Mr. Sanders noticed it was one of the few apartments that still had their lights on. It wasn't that late, so he wondered why so many people were already asleep. Unless not that many people lived here.

Crossing his arms over the wheel, he noticed Roman waiting out in the cold for at least five minutes before the door finally opened. From this angle, he couldn't see who was inside, but Roman quickly stepped in, and the door slammed shut quite loudly, so loudly Mr. Sanders heard it.

He checked the time, it was only two minutes passed nine - it seemed weird his mother was angry at him for it. Either way, he waved it off, and drove back home in silence, although however much he willed the thoughts away, he couldn't help but feel worried over the boy he barely fucking knew.

Parking the car, he waited in it for a few moments, not noticing Virgil standing in the doorway that leads into the house until he finally left his vehicle, closing his door gently.

"Logan asked if he got home safely" Virgil explained briefly, glancing at his nails he had painted black a few hours ago. His dad didn't respond for a full three minutes, because he didn't really know himself...

Of course, he arrived there unharmed, but he couldn't tell what was happening in that apartment.

"Dad?"

"What? Yes, he's fine" he dismissed, grazing past his son to get inside. Virgil watched him go with curious eyes, but he didn't think much of it, he was probably grumpy because he had to sit in a car with such an annoying boy.

After thinking it, Virgil felt himself wince. Wince! Since when does he care about someone he doesn't know? He only "winces" over his family and very close friends, even then it's a push for someone who isn't related to him.

Sighing out angrily, he closed the door with his foot, wondering what the hell has gotten into him.

The days leading to the barbecue passed painfully slowly, much to Virgil's and Angelo's discomfort. They had seen Roman all week, the kid was over every day! They didn't want to mush up to a boyfriend, as they both knew high school relationships barely last into adulthood.

Laura and Patton, though, couldn't keep still. They had prepared a lot of what they needed to do for the barbecue throughout the day while Logan and Roman hung out at the bowling ally. They all knew this because every half an hour either Angelo or Virgil would call to make sure they were still there.

That they were both safe.

Wait, both? No, they only care about Logan.

As it neared five o'clock, Angelo was about to call again when he heard the front door open and the sound of his sons and Roman's laughter filled up the foyer. The noise relaxed him, as he knew for sure they were both- Logan was okay.

Shit, he really needed to snap out of this.

"Greetings, everyone!" Roman declared when he entered the kitchen, arm wrapped around Logan securely. Virgil was about to tell him to move the arm up, but he realised his hand was nowhere near his ass, and was actually resting comfortably on his side.

Grumping, Virgil face his phone, leaning on the dinner table.

"Ah, it's nice to see you too, emo nightmare" Roman commented, raising the brow of Mr. Sanders who watched their exchange from the island counter.

Virgil looked over at him with a blank expression, "whatever...princey" Roman cocked his head to the side, smiling slowly with an approving nod. "I like it"

"Logan, Roman!" Laura suddenly yelled out, rushing through the sliding glass door to her son and sons boyfriend, hugging them both briefly before pressing kisses across both of their faces.

Logan sighed out in annoyance while Roman laughed, enjoying the short lived affection more than he'd like to admit.

"I missed you, Ro" she ruffled his hair, smiling wider when he grinned, bending down to kiss her hand like a gentleman. "I missed you too, mi amor" he added jokingly, earning a snort from Logan who also sent him a look that told him not to call his mother that.

"Why can't Angelo be more like you?" She sighed out, pinching both of his rather thin cheeks.

He flinched under the contact, making her remove her hands almost instantly. He chuckled nervously, rubbing his left cheek softly. "I do apologise...my cheeks still sore from when I fell on it" he admitted, but Logan saw through the lie as fast as lightening, but he didn't press on it, not in front of everyone anyway.

"Don't worry, I'm sorry too" she rubbed his cheek gently, smiling when he leaned into it. "Alright" she clapped her hands, whirling around on her feet. "Virgil, why don't you take Logan and our special guest up to your room? I know you have a console in there!" She waved her hand towards her son who dropped his jaw in astonishment.

Angelo covered his snort of amusement by coughing into his hand, but Laura saw through it, narrowing her eyes at her husband who stopped leaning over the counter to stare at her apologetically. Roman thought it to be amusing, Laura had this giant hulk of a man wrapped around her finger.

"Kids, go" she gave a pointed look at Virgil who sighed, even if he was legally an adult he had no say in the matter. Begrudgingly he walked by Logan and Roman who sent each other smiles before following behind.

"We do not have to hang out if you do not want to" Logan brought up as they headed down the hallway. Virgil paused by his bedroom, slumping in relief.

"Thank god-"

"Wait, I want to see your room!" Roman whined, crossing his arms like a child. Virgil deadpanned him, but Roman wasn't budging, so with a long sigh he pushed open his bedroom door, letting Roman in first, you didn't have to tell him twice before he was bounding in, exploring the large room with curiosity.

Virgil turned to Logan who was staring at Roman with a slight smile, arms crossed loosely over his chest. As much as Virgil didn't want to admit, Roman was definitely...good for him. He was annoying, and childish, and acted way to eccentric sometimes, but he made Logan smile, and that was all that mattered.

Virgil and Logan stepped in afterwards, noticing Roman was standing by a dark wooden desk, a picture frame in his hands. He seemed to be in a trance, eyes lingering on the photo inside.

It was from when the siblings were younger. Virgil was leaning on Logan, smirking while he watched as his younger brother had his arms wrapped around Patton who was to his chest, arms outstretched towards the camera, looking over it to whoever was holding it.

Roman thought it was adorable...seeing them so happy almost pained him. He didn't have that.

"Dude, you gonna stare at that all day or are we gonna play a game?" Virgil shot at him, breaking him from his stupor. Roman quickly placed the frame back down, sitting beside Logan near the end of the bed.

"Do you wish to play Mario kart? It is the only game I can play" Logan admitted. He was never one for video games, but if he had to join in, he would only play this...and occasionally Zelda but that was strictly confidential information.

"I would love too!"

They gathered the remotes before sitting on the bed, Virgil leaning against the headboard beside Logan. In his lap was Roman, situated between his legs, head resting on his chest comfortably.

While he waited for the game to loud, he ran his fingers through Roman's hair, watching him lean into the touch like a cat brushing into someone's hand.

"If he starts purring I'll leave" Virgil commented lowly, shooting him a glare the boy couldn't see when he purposely let out a low rumble, eyes slipping shut in content.

"It seems you two are getting along" Logan commented, raising his eyebrow when both boys snorted indigenously.

"In what way?" Virgil grumbled, choosing his character.

"In the rivalry friendship way" Logan responded, already knowing the fastest car in the game, choosing the character if belonged to. Of course Roman chose Princess peach, in his defence her dress was "beautiful".

The countdown began and they all went silent, zoned in on the game as they all desperately tried to stay in first place. They were all quite competitive, but it seemed Virgil and Roman were mostly battling against each other, waiting to use the shells whenever they would take over.

Logan stopped trying after awhile, he still drove but it was a cruise, as he mainly focused on Roman's concentrated face. Tongue poking from the corner of his lips, eyebrows creased together as he stayed deadly silent. He could see the light in his eyes when he realised he only had bit of the race left and he was in first place!

Although, he let out a shriek when he was suddenly hit by a red shell, and Virgil took over with a chuckle. Logan wanted to help because he enjoyed seeing Roman happy, but he was in twelfth place, what could he do?

Only then did he see the blue shell in the upper right section of his screen.

Never in his life had he reacted so quickly, and the blue shell was off. Virgil was so concentrated with the fact he was so close to winning he didn't even notice, only seeing it when it buzzed around his head, eyes widening in horror.

"No!" He groaned, flying up into the air. Roman sped past him, sitting up as he crossed the finish line with a delightful cheer.

"Yay! I won!" He grinned, turning to Logan to see his reaction. His boyfriend only smiled, shaking his head softly.

"Don't show off, Romeo" he blurted their nickname without realising, blushing lightly when he saw Roman's eyes lighting up.

"Thank you for the help, gumdrop" he murmured, leaning over to peck his lips, flinching when Virgil kicked his leg.

"Dude, that's my brother, get a room"

Both boys chuckled, which made Virgil smile, but he hid it behind his sleeve.

After ten races, the winner was - surprisingly but predictably - Logan who actually paid attention to the game after the first race he flunked. Although, Roman came in second, and as long as he bested Virgil, he didn't care.

"Whatever, I'd crush you at any other game" he murmured, raising his arm as he yawned and stretched. But, Roman had heard the tone of his voice, and even if it was only low because he was tired, he assumed the older boy was annoyed, and when he saw him raising his arm, he flinched, curling in on himself as he clenched his eyes shut tightly.

It was natural instinct at this point.

Logan and Virgil noticed almost instantly, glancing at each other before the glasses-wearing boy placed a hand on his shoulder gently.

Instantly Roman jumped up, springing out of Logan's lap and to the bottom of the bed where his chest heaved a little with his uneven breathing.

"Roman? Are you alright?" Logan questioned in a gentle tone, watching the boy slowly nod his head, brushing his hair that fell over his eyes away.

"I wasn't...going to hit you" Virgil murmured, making Roman nod and repeat 'I know, I know..' under his breath. They all sat in very awkward silence until the bedroom door opened, making them all look over, the brightly dressed boy instantly smiling when he saw Laura.

"How are you guys getting along?" She wondered, walking into the room more to grin at Roman and ruffle his hair. "We are getting alone splendidly! I came second!" He gestured to the screen, showing off his score. Laura smiled, cooing at Roman affectionately.

"I'm proud of you, Ro"

She didn't know how much that warmed him up inside, but he was practically beaming like the sun from her praise.

"Now, the guests are arriving soon, I expect you to all be on your best behaviour" she looked at Virgil as she spoke, making him throw his arms up, but with one look he sighed and stayed silent.

Roman tried not to flinch at the sudden movement, but he played it off to look like he was nuzzling into her hand that still carded through his soft hair. Laura smiled down at him lovingly, feeling...different around Roman. The same way she feels towards her kids, strangely.

"Come on, up, up, up! We need you all downstairs and ready!" She tapped Roman's nose before leaving, not noticing the sprinkle of pink dust that traveled across his cheeks.

They all did as she wished and quickly followed after her, spotting Patton bouncing on the trampoline outside, seemingly having the time of his life, his loud laughter infectiously adorable.

Roman walked over to the sliding door, biting his lip as he watched in happiness.

"Roman, I assume you like all barbecue related food?" He turned his head when his name was called, Virgil and Logan both passing by so they could go outside, their dad already there, setting up everything on the table.

"I do!" He responded back with a grin, heart lifting in his chest when he saw Laura shot him a smile back. He decided to help her around the kitchen, which she was very grateful for.

Time passed by and before they knew it the doorbell rang through the house.

"Angelo! Will you get that!" Laura called, serving up the different uncooked foods onto trays for Roman to bring outside. By the time he reached the door, everything was completed. The cooked foods could be gathered from the rather large barbecue next to the two tables.

The boys sat down on the bench, Roman quickly sitting beside Logan as he watched the family friends shuffle through the house to the back garden, instantly smelling the delicious scents of the different array of food.

And of course, they complimented the chef to no end.

As more and more people arrived, the kids grabbed the food they wanted, Roman's plastic plate was full to the brim, some food falling onto the bench's table when he sat down. Virgil and Logan stared at the plate and up to his face to see a sheepish grin sitting there.

Most of the adults stayed standing with the plates in their hand, would others sat on the recently cut grass, content.

"Jeez, slow down, dude" Virgil commented when he noticed Roman scoffing his food down, not even using the knife to cut it into smaller pieces. Logan looked up too, sighing as he had to use his napkin to clean the skin around his lips.

"Sorry, I regrettably haven't eaten in awhile" he blurted, eyes widening a little after he did. He hadn't meant to say that, now they all stared at him in worry, even Patton who looked up from his food.

"How long?" Logan replied, eyes narrowing as he dared Roman to lie.

He winced, ducking his head. Shit.

"I haven't eaten today...or yesterday" he admitted, unable to come clean with the fact he hadn't eaten the day before yesterday, either. Logan stared at him darkly, but Roman could see his eyes were shrouded by worry.

"Why? Do you not know how important food is to the body?" He remarked, watching Roman slump further, he really didn't want to talk about this now - or ever, really.

"I know, I'm sorry, my mother..." he drifted, gulping. "She's been unable to buy food recently...money is running low but we're okay" he reassured with a smile, all of what he said wasn't a lie, but it wasn't the complete truth. She was wasting their money on other things.

"Why did you not tell me sooner? We have food here-"

"I didn't want to be a burden, Logan, from Mr. Sanders and Virgil's first reaction to me I didn't feel comfortable asking for food..." he drifted, instead of letting them further interrogate him he picked up his plate and wondered over to the other bench at the opposite end of the garden, it was the one that swung back and forth gently.

Logan watched him go with an unreadable expression, slowly turning forward in his seat and towards Virgil who looked down in guilt. He was only doing his job as the older, protective brother! And like Roman said, it wasn't just him.

"Care to explain why you're on your own?" The deep voice of Mr. Sanders caught Roman's attention. He looked up from his plate of food he finished minutes prior, using a napkin to clean his hands.

"Needed a breather" he replied shortly, and Mr. Sanders instantly knew something was up. He never acted like this for the short amount of time he knew him.

He took a seat beside the boy, letting out a sigh as his eyes traveled across the bustling garden.

"This will take hours to clean" he grumbled, taking a sip from the beer can he held tightly in his hand.

Roman looked up, setting the plate to the side. "I would love to help, if you want" he offered, turning his head to look at the tall man dressed in black and white.

"Don't you have a home to go to?" He retorted back, wincing a little at how rude he sounded.

Roman slumped in the seat, shrugging lightly. "Yeah, sorry, I shouldn't have asked" he murmured, going to stand when a gentle hand on his shoulder kept him in place.

"Look, kid, if it makes you feel any better you can help clean as much as you want" this made Roman chuckle, he lifted his head and glanced at Mr. Sanders with a smile.

"What time is your mother expecting you?" Roman leaned back on the chair, gazing at the orange sky, sunset shining dimly in the distance.

"Ten is fine..." he replied back quietly, sending Mr. Sanders one more polite smile before heading back over to his boyfriend, hugging him from behind and whispering something into his ear.

Almost instantly he turned his head and kissed him gently. Usually something like that would make his stomach churn, because that's his son, but for some reason he was...content.

Patton invited Roman to the trampoline once they all finished eating and he happily agreed, the two older siblings sitting off to the side, quietly talking to each other while they watched Roman and Patton bounce around, laughing happily.

The rest of the evening passed by and before the boys knew it most of the guests had left. By the time Roman and Patton landed back on the flat ground, albeit a little wobbly, the front door closed, and the last car drove out from the driveway.

The garden was in a state, but it wasn't as bad as the remainder of a teenage party.

They all pitched in to clean, and it was almost back to normal only five minutes later, bar the two tables that still needed to be tidied away.

"Angelo, will you do that for me?" Laura purred, gesturing to the tables. He smiled and agreed, gently kissing her before she tiredly meandered inside. Virgil crept away with her, Patton quickly joining with quiet giggles.

"Roman, I need to use the bathroom - will you be alright on your own?" Logan questioned his boyfriend who nodded in response, pressing a kiss to the crown of his head.

"Don't fall in" he joked, earning a half-hearted glare that only held amusement.

He strode over to the table, putting all the rubbish he could find into the black bin bag in his hand. Mr. Sanders helped in silence until his curiosity got the better of him. It's something he's been wondering about the first time he heard about it.

"Hey, kid?"

Roman hummed in response.

"Your Dad, how did he die?"

The question made him tense, shoulders lifting slightly as the question obviously took him off guard. Mr. Sanders didn't reassure him though, or apologise, because if he was really over it, he wouldn't mind talking about it.

"He..um" Roman murmured, uneasy. "I-I" Roman stopped again, staring at the table he stood next to shakily. He hasn't really talked about how he died to anyone - and even if he told himself he was over it, he could feel himself ready to cry at any moment.

Breathing in, he grabbed a cup, shoving it into the black bag before he spoke. "It was my fifth birthday - I wondered why he was gone for so long, until I entered the bathroom and..." he didn't realise his eyes became glossed over until a tear tracked down his cheek.

"And found his body hanging from the ceiling" he somehow managed, crumpling a red cup in his hands as he did, sniffling deeply as he forced his emotions to the side. He didn't want to break down in front of the man he wanted to - in some way - impress.

Angelo felt regret plunge at him harshly, he didn't realise that the man had taken his own life. He felt like he should at least open up something from his past too, it might help.

"My father died too" he commented, going back to clearing the table. Roman sniffled, shakily wiping his eyes.

"H-he did?"

"He collapsed one evening after shouting at me" Angelo sighed, remembering the night vividly. "Bastard - his heart gave out before he could attack me...I felt no remorse, not then, not now, not ever..." he drifted off, a little bewildered he was telling this to a kid he barely knew. His own kids don't even know anything from his childhood yet here he was confessing his "sob story" to the boy who was coincidentally almost sobbing himself. At least, before he started to speak, anyway.

"He hit you?" Roman spoke up, eyes softening.

"Where d'you think I got this scar, kid?" He then gestured to a scar trailing down the side of his neck. Roman gasped inaudibly, somehow not noticing that until now. Roman chewed his lip before making up his mind.

He rounded the table and gently rolled up his sleeve to his elbow, revealing a scar that went down on his forearm. It was long, something that he kept hidden a lot of the time.

"My Dad hurt me too" he murmured, letting Angelo scoop up his arm gently, trailing his thumb across the scar.

"And you still cried over his death?" He commented, letting Roman pull down his sleeve and return to cleaning. The boy shrugged, his usual bright smile overtaken by the frown that Angelo - for some reason - hated to stare at. He didn't like the fact it was his fault it was there.

"He was my dad, I guessed I loved him, but it hurts more because I was the reason why he...did it" Roman explained briefly, tying up the bag once everything was cleared.

Angelo stared at him, a little perplexed he admitted such a thing, but he felt some form of happiness? Inside, because it meant for some reason Roman trusted him - and they were bonding, even if it was over something depressing.

"Guess your mother takes good care of you now, huh?"

Roman walked over to him, handing him the black back with a faint smile. "You could say that" he replied back, turning on his heel so he could enter the house, checking himself in the reflection to make sure he didn't look like he was almost crying.

Deeming himself adequate, he entered the living room from where he heard noises coming from, spotting Laura, Virgil and Patton sprawled on the long part of the couch, all laying on each other comfortably as they watched the animal documentary on the tv.

On the arm chair sat Logan who gestured him over silently.

Roman grinned, lifting Logan up to sit on the chair, letting him cuddle up on his lap, pressing a kiss to his forehead.

"I spoke to your dad" he whispered into his ear, the other three unable to hear what they were saying.

Logan perked up at this, glancing at him to carry on. "I think he likes me now" he grinned, making Logan smile back. The two settled back to silence afterwards, and sometime during the documentary Angelo entered the room and sat on the empty section of the couch, glancing at his son and Roman for a few moments before he nodded his head in approval and stayed focus on the tv.

Roman should feel honoured. Angelo has never approved of any boyfriend that has entered this house.

The documentary quickly came to an end, and Patton grabbed the remote, shutting the tv of so they would have to converse. Although, before they could Roman's phone suddenly lit up and vibrated with a call. Unfortunately it was sitting on the coffee table, and now everyone knew it was his mother calling, meaning he couldn't hang up.

"Catch" Virgil picked up his phone and threw it over. Roman contemplated whether or not to catch it, but he realised it wouldn't break enough so he couldn't answer the call - the worse that could happen would be the screen might crack and/or Virgil would get into trouble.

He pressed the green button and held the device up to his ear, deflating slightly when he heard the male voices in the background. Shit.

"Roman, where are you?" His mother asked, but her voice was lazy and slow. She had taken some type of drug. Where all their money goes to.

"I'm okay, mom, how are you?" He replied back, trying his best to trick everyone in the room he was having a normal conversation.

"Don't...don't be sarcastic, mistake" she shot back down the line, pausing a little to breathe in deeply. Roman visibly flinched when she called him that word. It was like he touched fire.

He wasn't even being sarcastic...

"If you aren't home in five minutes..." she trailed off for the longest time and Roman had to make sure she hadn't accidentally hung up.

"Five minutes me and..an' Pete have sex on your bed" this made an uproar of slurred laughter from the background and Roman sighed out, dragging a hand through his hair, feeling everyone's eyes burn into him during their conversation.

"Fine. I'll be there soon" he hung up, not even able to bring himself to reply with a short 'love you' to try and make it seem...normal.

"Mr. Sanders...would it be alright if I got a lift home now? My mother's worrying" he forced out a chuckle, both arms wrapping around Logan, like his brain was subconsciously trying to make him stay.

He rose an eyebrow suspiciously but stood up anyway. "Sure, don't be too long" Roman nodded and watched him leave the room silently.

"When will you be back?" Patton piped up, sad that he was leaving so soon.

"I...soon, don't worry" he smiled, letting Logan stand up so he could, too. They walked towards the front door, sharing a long, loving kiss as they did.

"Text me, otherwise I will worry" Logan murmured, making Roman smile. "Of course, I love you" he whispered, feeling elated when Logan whispered it back.

"It was great having you over, Roman! We should all spend the next weekend together! The weather is said to be wonderful!" Laura gushed, giving Roman tight squeeze.

He smiled, hugging her back. "I would love that" he responded, sharing one more hug with Logan before he bid farewell, quickly slipping into Mr. Sanders' car and buckling up. Roman waved at Logan as the drove down the driveway, only letting his arm drop when they were no longer in sight.

The two stayed silent for the trip, not needing to say anything. He couldn't help but worry, though. He could sense Roman was lying, and there was another reason why he was called home so suddenly, and with his tense posture, Angelo knew it wasn't for the right reasons.

Parking in the same place as last time, Angelo looked over at Roman who was again hesitant upon leaving the car, eyes glued up to his apartment door.

"Kid?"

"Huh? Oh, my apologies..." he mumbled, quickly slipping out the car and shutting the door. Part of Angelo wanted to go after him, but he also felt like an idiot for doing so. Before he left, though, he made sure Roman was in the apartment.

Safe.

The next day, Anglo and his family sat at the table eating breakfast when the house phone suddenly blared from the counter. Patton bounced from his seat and sprinted across the tiled floor, skidding around on his socks but he kept his balance pretty well, in fact he used the skidding to an advantage.

"Hello? Patton speaking!" He called enthusiastically, going silent so he could hear the person on the other end. Everyone turned to watch, noticing almost instantly his expression dropped.

"I...what? Roman what?" He repeated, making Logan perk his head up.

"Oh...oh...we'll be right there!" He hung up, eyes dilated with fear.

"Roman! They said he was in the hospital!"

"What?" Logan almost shrieked, flying over to his brother to stare at him closely. "In hospital? Why!?" He demanded, not meaning to scare his brother, but with Roman in hospital, his self control was going haywire.

"They-they said he fell from his balcony..." Patton spoke loud enough for everyone to hear.

"Why did they call us?" Angelo questioned, watching as Laura grabbed the car keys and everyone's jackets. They were all in their pyjamas but they didn't care.

"They said Roman said to call us! His mother wasn't responding"

Angelo cursed under his breath, ushering everyone out the house as they piled into his car. With that, they tore down the road, Angelo probably broke a few laws but he couldn't give less of a shit - Roman was in the hospital, the one thing that brings his son happiness.

Speaking of, Logan was hardly breathing in the back, being attacked by the anxiety that came out of nowhere, screaming around 'what if's' in his mind, but one thing kept repeating, getting louder and louder.

He's dying. He's dying. He's dead.

He swore, if Roman was lying dead in that hospital bed, he would find out how the hell he fell from that damned balcony, and if it wasn't accidental, he felt like he would murder someone without hesitance.

Once they pulled haphazardly into a parking place, they scrambled out the car, Logan moving the fasted as he sprinted into the building, basically slamming into the desk but he didn't care.

"Roman, Roman, where's Roman?" He demanded angrily, the woman behind the desk flinching in shock.

"Logan, calm down, breathe" Virgil coiled his arms around Logan tightly, forcing him to stop struggling as he squirmed against his brothers hold, but it was no use.

"Breathe" Virgil whispered again, and this time Logan listened, finally calming down enough he wouldn't explode at the receptionist who still looked thoroughly shocked.

"Roman Kingsley - where is he?"

The woman tapped away at her keyboard quickly, coming up with his room number almost instantly. "Are you a member of his immediate family?" She questioned, watching Logan's face drop slightly.

"He's my boyfriend" he seethed, watching slight disgust and discomfort flash through her eyes.

"I'm sorry, only his family-"

"You called us" Angelo stepped in, looming over menacingly. "His family put him in this mess, so tell us what room he is in" his tone was icily cold and calm, shooting a spike of fear through the woman as she cleared her throat and nodded uneasily.

"Third floor, two four six..."

The family were at the elevator before she could say anything else, but Logan discarded the machine completely, using his body to slam open the doors to the stairs. He was in a mad rush to get to his boyfriend, because he wasn't about to lose the man he loved.

With every leap he made he skipped two stairs, using the railing to haul himself up at a faster speed. As soon as he reached the third floor, he crashed through the doors, thankful the hall was empty as he was making a complete fool of himself.

He rushed down the hallway, bursting through the room that belonged to Roman.

His breathing stopped when he saw the boy laying on the bed next to the window, eyes closed, breathing soft and thankfully stable. He felt like he could collapse out of happiness as he rushed over, scooping up his hand gently, like it could break at any moment. His heart monitor was normal, although it picked up slightly when he felt someone touch him.

"Roman? Can you hear me?"

The boys eyes fluttered, and only then did Logan notice the damage done to his body. His right arm was in a cast, the sling around his neck, broken arm laying on his chest, his legs seemed to be fine, but Logan could see the dark bruise that lined the underside of his other arm, indicating he landed on the floor with quite the velocity.

"Roman..." he heard a broken voice speak behind him. In a matter of two seconds Patton was at his other side, staring at his sleeping form, tears welling up in his piercing blue eyes. Behind him, the rest of his family stared at his body that rested on the bed in silence, Laura was next to respond, clasping a hand over her mouth to trying and muffle the whimper, but everyone heard it anyway.

Virgil felt like he couldn't look at him any longer, he didn't seem seriously injured, but the reality of why he was here made his stomach churn. He was fine yesterday, something obviously happened when he arrived home. How did he fall from a balcony? Was he trying to get himself killed?

That thought made him feel more sick.

He silently moved across the room to the seats in the corner, eyes drilled against the ground as he repeated his breathing technique, keeping himself as calm as he possibly could.

By now Logan had dragged up a chair and took a seat, hand still holding onto Roman's one softly, stroking the skin with his thumb in hopes to comfort the boy. He couldn't tell if it was working, but his heart monitor had calmed back down to normal since.

Behind them the door to the room opened, and a doctor stared at them all, perplexed, he wasn't expecting anyone...

"Oh-erm...hello" he nodded his head awkwardly, scuttling by Laura and Angelo who stood in the middle of the room, the older man with his arms around her tightly, letting her hug him, unable to comprehend it all.

He did a check over Roman in silence, ignoring the way Logan glared at him when he would get too close, even Patton tried to get him away, but he knew he was only trying to help.

"He should wake up soon" the doctor commented, staring down at his clipboard.

"Are you his mother?" He returned to the couple, Laura freezing a little as he asked. Softly, she shook her head, a frown manifesting on her face while doing so, almost feeling guilty. Hell, she did feel guilty.

"I'm not...we don't know where she is" Laura explained gently, using a tissue to dab at her eyes gently. The doctor nodded, finally taking in the families attire, a little surprised to see them all in loose-fitting pyjamas. He cleared his throat, cheeks pinging pink.

"All right, well, on impact with the ground his arm broke, it's safe to assume he landed on it...he had some internal bleeding, and bruises across his body" the doctor paused, tapping the clipboard with his finger. "Most of the bruising was from the fall, but some are littered across his stomach, I have a hunch it was possible his trip from the balcony might not have been an entire accident on his end"

He explained the best he could without wanting to make them all freak out, but he sensed the man before him had some murderous intent, eyes darkening once he finished speaking. "I...will leave you to it" He murmured, quietly exiting the room.

Five minutes passed, and by that time everyone was sitting down, only Logan and Patton stayed close to Roman's bed, waiting in the agonising silence for him to wake up and tell them he was okay.

But he didn't. Not for awhile, at least, until Logan felt Roman's hand tighten just a little, it was so soft in fact he didn't know if he imagined it or not. Lifting his gaze, he saw Roman's head tip to the side, eyelids forcing open due to the fact they weighed down heavily. A light smile grazed his lips as he stared at his boyfriend.

"Roman.." he sighed out in relief, standing from his chair to press a kiss to his parted lips, hands on both of his cheeks softly, stroking the skin affectionately. Roman smiled into it, but he felt too weak to do anything else, so he let himself kiss back before Logan pulled apart, his eyes staring into his own closely.

"Who did this to you?" He whispered the question, but it was stern in tone, eyes narrowing ever so slightly to show he was serious. Roman tensed, his own eyes flicking back and forth between Logan's, relaxing against the bed again when Logan finally let him go.

"You're awake!"

Roman turned to the perky voice beside him, smiling when Patton gently pushed both arms around his neck, pulling him into a hug, favouring the arm as he did. He couldn't bare the thought of putting Roman in pain.

Laura walked over too, smiling softly at Roman who smiled back, trying to reach for her, but he felt so tired and weak he could barely lift his arm. His expression was all she needed, though, because she stood beside Logan's chair, hugging the boy too.

"I'm so glad you're safe" she murmured, pressing a soft kiss to his forehead. It made him smile, staring up at her softly.

"Go back to sleep, kid"

Roman grinned up at Angelo who stood beside Patton, eyes fluttering with tiredness afterwards. He wanted to stay awake, but he felt his body drifting off, he just didn't want them to leave...

Though, as if they could read his mind, Virgil appeared on the other side of Logan, sending him a reassuring look.

"We'll be here when you wake up"

The simple statement eased him enough so he could fall asleep, hand still in Logan's as his breathing evened out.

Angelo was first to move, grabbing his wallet from the pocket he threw it into on the way out of the house. "I'm gonna buy a drink, anyone want anything?"

They all agreed on having a bottle of water each, Virgil being the only one who went with his dad down to the vending machine on the first floor. As he inserted the change, Virgil spoke up in the silence.

"Where's he gonna go?"

Angelo's eyes flickered over to him, silently prompting him to explain what he meant. "He's not safe at home...will be be taken away?" Virgil chewed his lip, watching his dad sigh and pick up the water.

"I don't know, son...I have a feeling Logan won't let that happen, though" he admitted, handing a few of the bottles to Virgil who nodded in agreement. They headed back to the room, both of them feeling slightly embarrassed they were wandering around in pyjamas, but then they remembered why they were here, and suddenly didn't care about their outer appearance.

Two hours passed agonisingly slow. By that time Logan had his head resting in his arms on the side of the bed, eyes staring lifelessly at the wall opposite, the beep beep beep of the monitor a distant background noise.

Virgil had situated himself on the spare bed, scowling every few minutes at the bad service, all he wanted to do was text his friend - Thomas - what was going on but it was becoming annoyingly hard.

Opposite, Patton sat between his two parents, legs drawn up to his chest as he worriedly stared at his brothers boyfriend. He looked so lifeless...but whenever he would catch the rise and fall of his chest, he could feel his nerves calming, only for them to start up again when he would imagine Roman not breathing.

The parents were deathly silent throughout the time, occasionally sipping from their water, long passed the time they felt comfortable having a conversation.

Only when the doctor walked in again did Roman stir, blinking rapidly to disperse the sleep stinging his bright eyes.

"Ah, I see you're awake" he commented, watching with a neutral expression as he was completely blanked, instead Roman focused on Logan who slowly lifted his head, smiling lazily at his boyfriend who chuckled, brushing his messy hair from his face. Roman had never seen Logan in such a disheveled state.

Well...not in awhile.

He eventually turned to the doctor who rose his gaze from his clipboard, smiling politely. "Your mother picked up" he explained brightly, but those four words filled Roman's heart with dread. Everyone in the room knew this because when he said it they all looked over with different types of worried expressions.

"What...did she...say?" Roman replied back quietly, he didn't know if he wanted to hear it or not.

"I told her your boyfriends family showed-"

"You told her I had a boyfriend?!" Roman cut him off loudly, jumping up in his bed suddenly, wincing when he knocked his broken arm about, but he brushed it to the side, eyes set in a hard glare at the man who shrunk back at the sudden explosion, clipboard hovering over his face as a sort of defence.

"I..was that bad? I assumed-"

"Shit" he cursed loudly, dragging a hand through his hair, eyes frantically searching the bed he sat on for a way to escape, but he knew that was silly, he just didn't want to face her homophobic anger...

"Just-" Roman breathed through his nose, jaw clenched. "What did she say?"

The doctor paused, clearing his throat awkwardly. "She stayed silent for awhile...then requested your boyfriends father took you home" he explained in a soft voice, not wanting to make the boy explode again, as his heart monitor was going crazy.

He slumped on the bed, covering his face with one hand as he tried to come up with a solution of what to do. He was sure she was already pissed he survived the fall, and now she knows he has a boyfriend? Her homophobic, child hating ass is going to kill him in his sleep!

He didn't feel safe..she was out there..and he had to go back.

He let out a long breath, finally lifting his head to stare at the doctor, but his eyes showed how drained he was. "Okay" He murmured, scratching the back of his neck. "When can I go?" His voice was low - the complete opposite to the usual boisterous boom.

"Now, if you wish.."

He nodded, groping around the table beside him until he grabbed his clothes. "Give me a minute" he requested, but the way he said it made him seem like he was a hollow shell - that his soul was sucked right from his body.

Logan slowly stood up, gripping his hand gently, gaining his attention.

"I have an idea" he spoke lowly, a quiet whisper no one else heard. Roman nodded, because he trusted Logan, and was sure whatever his plan was would help him out in some way.

Logan looked up at the doctor who was slowly inching towards the doorway. "Excuse me, Sir?" Logan headed over to him, waiting until he turned around before speaking again. "I know where his bruises accumulated from - shall we talk outside?" Logan offered, watching him nod with some enthusiasm, quickly leading the boy away.

Roman watched with curious eyes, but he didn't think too much into it. If he was going to tell the doctor it was his mothers doing, it would be a lie, technically. One of her many drugged up friends attacked him because he...well, he wasn't doing anything wrong, so Roman assumed he was being attacked because he existed, besides the point, the bruises weren't from her, but she definitely pushed him from the balcony in a fit of rage.

Whether on purpose on or accident, Roman was sure she would do it again given the chance.

A few minutes later he reemerged from the connected bathroom, looking a little cleaned up now that he wore his clothes again. White jeans and a red t-shirt that had an embroidered rose in the middle. He did struggle with the broken arm, but somehow he managed to get it through the sleeve, though it hurt like a bitch.

Now he was standing in the hallway beside Laura who had one arm around him comfortingly, whispering soothing things to him. He didn't think it would change much, but hearing it from her made him feel better, protected, safe.

It made him feel like he was cared for.

"Are you okay?" Patton's soft voice broke him from his trance. Roman turned towards him with a small smile, using his free arm to pull him into a gentle hug. Even if his other arm wasn't in a sling, it still throbbed with a dull pain, along with his back. He was lucky his head wasn't smashed into the ground too violently - he might've come out of here not remembering his own name.

Patton slowly lifted away, but his arms still hung loosely around his stomach, head tilted up so he could stare at Roman's face, eyes once again brimming with tears.

"Don't cry, I'm perfectly okay, you adorable puff ball"

He smiled wider when Patton let out a quiet giggle, nuzzling his face back into his chest for a few moments. "Don't fall from a balcony again, promise?" He murmured, eyes reaching up to his, and Roman's heart warmed at the sight. This boy cared so much.

"I promise" he replied back, leaning down to press a soft kiss to the crown of his head, ruffling his hair afterwards. Patton let out another giggle, but this one was louder, and full of life.

"What're you going to do?" Virgil questioned when Patton hopped over to his dad, laughing with him as he let out a string of terrible Dad jokes.

Roman leaned on the wall, eyes staring at the family he has only known for a week. "Live with her...move away...run away" he listed his options gloomily. The more he thought about it, the more he realised his chances at finding somewhere safe to stay were growing slim.

"What about Logan?"

"Maybe..." he hesitated, biting his lip harshly. "Maybe he deserves someone who isn't a mistake..." he murmured, not daring to look anywhere but the ground. He could see Virgil turn his body to face him, and he was sure he would agree, but he tensed when Virgil said something else.

"He deserves you as much as you deserve him" he spoke firmly, "you make each other happy while being in the same room! You've dated for four months and you already act like one of you is gonna propose, don't say shit like that, whether you were planned to be on this planet or not is irrelevant, what does matter is what you do with the life given to you"

Roman slowly let a coy smile rest on his lips, lifting his head to stare at Virgil who was blushing from his outburst. "Huh...thank you, emo nightmare"

Virgil snorted, shaking his head. "Whatever, princey"

As the two chuckled, Logan came into view, the doctor trailing behind him while writing messily on his clip board.

"Are you ready?" He asked his boyfriend who rose his eyebrow, silently questioning him on why he took so long, but Logan waved him off, motioning everyone to follow.

Roman was let out, and they all climbed into the car, waiting in silence for Logan to explain himself.

"I reenforced the idea your mother played no part in what happened to you" he explained, everyone staring at him, perplexed. He carried on anyway. "We all know she did it, though?" Virgil leaned forward in the seat secured in the trunk of the car.

"Which is why this plan is perfect. We can threaten her if she does not allow Roman to live with us then we shall inform the police of the child abuse she inflicted on her son. Including the possible drugs in her apartment" he clarified, Roman's eyes wide with surprise.

"You...want me to live with you?" He repeated, in utter disbelief.

Everyone in the car turned to Roman, Laura being the first to speak. "Well, we do love your presence, and we would all rather you live somewhere safe" her voice was soft and reassuring, Roman felt himself warm up with the happiness that swelled in his heart.

His eyes turned to his boyfriend who was staring at him in silence, lips settled into a straight line as he waited to gauge his reaction. Finally, Roman began to grin, unable to stop pulling Logan into a tight embrace, one he carefully returned.

"Thank you" Roman whispered, voice cracking.

"Thank you..."

—

12:11am