Hi! Well here it is! ^^ Lovely parts in this chapter and I listened to a particularly beautiful song while writing Hadens story about how he met Tommy and a little before that. Here it is if your interested .com/watch?v=e0td6v4KRu4 Enjoy!

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"...HIV…?" Alvin repeated shakily. He stared at the paper, his eyebrows knitted into an unreadable expression. I waited, expecting him to reveal some secret that explained his shocked appearance, but he stayed silent.

"What? What is it?" I asked, looked up at him, while still sitting in my chair. He hovered over me, not moving, not speaking "Did you know?" I asked slowly. Silence. He backed away.

"Alvin?" He set the papers down.

"No...I didn't...I...I need to go…" he said suddenly and headed for the door.

"Wait, Alvin! If there's something on your mind, you need to tell me and you need to tell me now!" I stood up but didn't go over to him. He looked...confused now.

"Alvin…" I said softly. I was worried now and intrigued. SOMETHING was up. And I, as his lawyer, needed to know!

"I...I'm sorry, I just..need to think..Okay? I promise, its nothing, I just need to clear my mind" he said, apologetically and then he walked out, leaving me there in even more confusion.

"Okay..." I said, quietly to the now empty room. What was that? I stood for a while, trying to understand what had just happened. That was twice today that someone had completely baffled me and I didn't know why.

HIV. That's where the mood went wrong. Maybe it had something to do with the drugs? Did Diego even know? Diego. Maybe that's why he didn't want to do the test. He knew about his HIV but maybe no one else does. I wonder about his mother. I need to talk to her.

I called down to the holding room to see if Diego and his mother had left. They had.

"Leave a message?" the secretary asked.

"Yeah, just ask Diego's mother if she would be willing to speak with me sometime" I said and hung up. I leaned back in my chair and sighed. This is so...odd...but that's why I love my job; keeps my mind off of other things. Speaking of, I kind of left my life story at a bad ending...not that this is the best time, but hell, I need to clear my thoughts too now.

***

"Nothing really, just want to look nice for once…" Cassedie said softly, tying her hair back into a pony tail. She flipped it around a bit and then turned to face me. "So do I look nice? Like a girl?" she said happily.

"Of course you do" I said smiling. There must be some guy or something, but I wouldn't voice my thoughts. Cassedie insisted on not being interested in guys yet. I still had the other bathing suit in my hands, holding it carefully and studying its fine threads.

"You can keep it," She said suddenly. I looked up, embarrassed.

"W-What?" I stuttered.

"Well, you helped me and I look amazing, according to you, so you can keep it. As a gift." She said, smiling. I was probably blushing, I couldn't tell. All I could think was, thank you! And, oh crap, she knows!

But I think Cassedie had always known I liked girl stuff. She didn't completely understand though. Probably thought I was just going to be gay. If only...

"You look like your in love with it anyways" she joked, breaking our awkward silence. I laughed and gave her an evil grin. But just because she didn't know, didn't mean she wasn't accepting. I could have told her about my desires any time I wanted to because she would have always loved me the same. As her brother, no matter what I did.

"Okay, lets go!" She yelled, grabbing me and dragging me out to the car. I dropped the bikini and stumbled along. Julia, Emily and our mom were already waiting. Our dad would meet us there later. My mom scolded Cassedie for taking so long but soon we were on the road, headed for my grandparents home.

"Haden, why are you wearing that dang T-shirt?" Emily said exasperatedly, after about fifteen minutes of driving. It was hot and all of my sisters were complaining, except Julia. She was only seven and didn't mind. The AC had broke just a day ago and my mom hadn't had time to get it fixed; plus it was scorching hot.

"Cause.." I said slowly, playing with the hem of the shirt and looking out the window. It was hot but I wanted keep myself covered for as long as possible.

"You know, your so weird sometimes, Haden" Emily continued "Just take it off! Show off your body!" She said, giggling and squirmed in her seat. She was in the passengers seat, next to my mom, wearing a bikini as well. She was seventeen and promiscuous. Both Cassedie and I knew this and we caught her with different guys every week. My mom didn't believe Cassedie when she tried to tell her how much of a whore her daughter was. She didn't want to believe her first born angel was a slut.

"Mmhm…" I grumbled and rolled my eyes.

"Did you invite anyone?" Cassedie asked trying to change the subject, but it only gave Emily more to play with.

"Of course he didn't, he never does," she laughed "Haden, were gonna get you some nice lady friends tonight, okay?" she said playfully, turning in her seat to look at me, a huge smirk on her face. Girls? Ew, no. I don't like girls, like that... All I'll want to do is stare at their amazing clothes and wish I was them… plus I'm not dating yet…

"What? I'm not even a teenager yet-" I protested, not stating my earlier thoughts.

"Oh, come on. I started dating when I was ten, your nine. Only a year left!" She sang and laughed "Trust me Haden, I'll find you some good ones," She then turned back in her seat and blared the radio.

Cassedie looked at me and gave me a sympathetic smile. I decided not to argue. There was no use. And if I did, it would only make me more obvious. I shrugged off what she said and continued to stare out the window, glaring at the passing houses. This was going to be a long night...

***

I hate birthday parties, I always have. Everyone is always so happy at them, celebrating there amazing birth, there right on this planet and getting gifts of all kinds that they absolutely love. I don't feel any of those things apply to me. I sound like such a selfish bastard and I hate that about myself too, but it's the truth.

Don't get me wrong, I did try to like the toys my parents bought me. They spent money on them and I should have enjoyed them, but I couldn't. If I told them I didn't like something, they told me I was ungrateful. When I was old enough to understand what they were calling me, I stopped complaining.

We arrived at my grandparents house while I was still sulking over the previous conversation. My grandma would not stop bugging me about my sad face and insisted I go swim to cheer myself up. Yeah, that will definitely cheer me up...

My grandparents house is huge, at least compared to most middle class owners. It looks almost like a castle, not as large but the way it's built. White stone walls and a red shingled roof decorate it nicely and invite you in. The doors are wooden, oddly enough and the floors a deep grey marble, with carpet in a few bedrooms. I always wondered how my mothers childhood was, living with such rich parents. Maybe its why she turned out the way she did.

Only a few people were at the pool when we arrived, so I decided to swim while there weren't to many eyes watching. Their pool looks like a community pool, big and square with pool chairs all the way around. There's a few tables by the back door with umbrellas on top of them and right now, they are full of food. I don't want to get into to much more detail about my grandparents amazing home, but its just...amazing.

I swam with Cassedie and Julia for about half an hour, before more guests started arriving. Most of them, I knew for a fact, were only here to enjoy the riches. Cassedie even told me she barley knew half the people coming. I got out and dried off when more than fifteen people had entered the pool. Too many people. I stood up and dried myself off, grabbing my bag from a table. My parents were by the food tables, talking to our relatives and friends. My mom waved at me when I walked out and signaled me to come over. She was standing with Emily, and a bunch of girls...

"Hi honey, these are some of the girls that Emily was saying you should meet!" she said, smiling so widely, I thought her face might rip.

"Hi" I said quietly, playing along with this stupid game for now. They all giggled, saying hi, you're so cute, he's shy, aww look at his eyes, blah, blah, blah. I just smiled and nodded when needed, glancing around at each of them. They all seemed around my age; ten to maybe fourteen? They all had on the most adorable bathing suits, some flattering and some not so much… All of them had their hair done up too, as if they weren't going to get it wet anyways. But I would have done the same, had I ever had long hair.

As the conversation began to get more inquisitive, I gave Emily a glare, making sure no one could see. She knew I wasn't going to date any of these girls anyways, so why put me through this?

Soon they started asking questions, like how old I was, where did I go to school, my cell phone number? Oh God. Of course. The moment that was said, Emily quickly gave it to them and pointed out I was single. I was fuming by the time all of them finally left, giggling and mumbling bye. Then to make things worse, my dad came over.

"Some pretty girls you got there" He said, a beer in hand, smiling at me. I laughed and took a sip from my own can of soda. I didn't remember when I had gotten it, maybe Emily had given it to me...Then my dad looked down at me and his smile seemed to fade.

"You gonna swim again?" he asked, taking a drink. I shook my head. Hell no. Not with all these people here.

"No...I don't feel that well." I said slowly, not meeting his eyes. I couldn't lie that well if I did. "I brought my book and Ipod too so, I might just read." I pulled my Ipod out of my bag, to prove I wasn't lying, about that at least.

"Hm," He sipped some more beer "Okay, but don't get to bored." He laughed and put his hand on my head, shaking it and messing up my hair. I grimaced, but forced a smile and chuckled too. He laughed some more and walked away. 'Finally...' I thought and went to find a spot to stay and read for the next few hours.

I sighed and sat back in my chair again. I was starting to vividly remember things now, especially conversations. I usually did and so it was easy for me to write them down almost exactly as they had happened, hence the reason I was writing this way. I started thinking about what was going to happen next. The part when I met Tommy. It was going to be funny to write, but even funnier when Tommy reads it. I never really told him what my first impression was of him. And it was quite the impression. I smiled to myself and looked at the clock. It was a quarter till twelve. I had been writing for a few hours since Alvin had left, leaving me with nothing to do. My client was my job after all. But now it was lunch time. And where to eat...

My stomach growled as I sat there, contemplating over where I should eat lunch. I've been doing a lot of decision making lately. There's a fast food place right next to our building...I instantly think of Tommy and what he would say, but I don't want to travel to far for a snack. 'And I want to write this part of my story already,' I think, whining to myself in my head. My stomach interrupts my thoughts with a loud grumble. Fast food place it is.

I made my way down the stairs of our building and headed out the door, taking in a deep breath and the scent of busy traffic. I looked around and then turned towards the restaurants direction. It was called "Joes Good Stuff" or some stupid name like that. It was the more run down version of a Mc Donald's, I guess. As I got closer, the scent of greasy french fries and hamburgers wafted into the air. My favorite.

'Better not tell Tommy about this' I thought, laughing to myself as I walked in. It looked more like a Mc Donald's inside than out. Several people glanced up at me as I walked in but resumed eating as soon as they noticed I was unimportant. There was one line at the front of the restaurant and I headed for it, standing behind about ten more people. This was going to take awhile.

'Maybe this wasn't the best choice…' I thought, scanning the menu, trying to decide which delicious yet deadly meal I wanted. I was definitely getting fries, but with what…

"Hey, I can help you over here!" A somewhat high pitched and bubbly voice yelled over the rumble of talking. I looked over to the next cash register to see a hand waving in the air and two brown eyes staring directly at me. The eyes belonged to a heart shaped smiling face that had medium length honey blonde hair. The hair fell around the persons face and shaped it to the chin, the rest was pulled back. It was a guy, but a feminine looking guy. But not really. That sounds confusing, I know. He looked like a guy, but also a girl, but not in a gay way, just in a...well, he looked likable. Like the type everyone flocked to, even if they didn't know him, which is exactly what was happening.

I walked over to him and soon hoards of other people did as well. They all seemed pretty adamant on getting their food quick. I glanced around nervously, afraid someone was going to run me over, but my eyes met his and he smiled again. I realized he wasn't taller than me. Actually, he was about my height. That's a first.

"Hi, welcome to Joe's!" He beamed, still smiling at me.

"Hi" I said slowly, digging into my pockets for some cash.

"So what would you like to order today?" He asked, his hands resting on the cash register, awaiting my order.

"Um, well, actually, I don't know yet" I said. Wow, why hadn't I decided yet! These people were gonna kill me if I didn't hurry up! "Any recommendations?" I asked, feeling heat overcome my face. What? Who asks for recommendations at a fast food place? But my stupid question didn't seem to phase him.

"Um," He put his finger to his chin and looked around, as if thinking deeply. He was quirky, but in a cute way, like a... girl? "I'd say the chicken sandwich and fries combo, but that's cause I just got hired and don't know half of what's on the menu," he said laughing. I laughed too. I was right, this guy is likable. He talks like a girl and acts like one, but he still acts like a guy, somehow. He was friendly and it was nice. I was still contemplating these things when he leaned over the counter and whispered "And plus, these people look like there about to kill me and you for taking so long,"

"Oh" I laughed, "I guess I'll take your advice. I'll have the chicken sandwich combo then." I said, pretending to be scared of the flocks of people behind me. He smiled again, his big round eyes crinkling and typed in the order. I handed him the cash and decided to continue this funny conversation. Why not?

"And if these people are gonna kill me, then I might as well enjoy my last few minutes of conversation." I said chuckling. He giggled. Actually, he had always been giggling. Like...a girl. It was strange...strangely nice. "So, your new here?" I asked while I waited for my food.

"Yeah, just got into a college here and needed some serious cash," He smiled "So I settled for this dump, but shh! Don't tell anyone how bad it is!" He jokingly whispered. A few people behind us glanced over. As if they were going to stop coming to this place anyways...

He went to grab my order and I was left to deal with the angry people behind me. They were all giving me dirty looks but I didn't mind. Hey, I was just as hungry as they were. The blonde finally came back with my food and handed it to me.

"Here you go! Chicken and fries" he said joyfully. He then looked at me oddly as I picked up the tray. I wanted to say something, but didn't.

"Hey, after I'm done with this line, it's my lunch break, mind if I come and eat with you?" He said quickly, handing me a few napkins from behind the counter. He stared at me, smiling sweetly.

"Oh, uh sure and thank you." I said, smiling and taking the napkins.

"Okay" He grinned even more and walked back to the cash register, proceeding with the same welcoming he gave me. Is this the beginning of a... a friendship? I don't have a lot of those...Wait, what am I talking about. He just wants company since he's new. Oh well, maybe I can have an acquaintance then.

I went and sat down, suddenly feeling awkward all alone. My phone rang and it was Tommy. Tommy... I missed him.

"Hey," I said answering the phone.

"Hey you. Whatcha' doing?" he said playfully.

"Nothing really," I replied happily. His voice was nice to hear after todays busy atmosphere.

"So, how'd today go?" I was silent for a second, trying to remember what I did. Oh right, I told him about the drug test.

"Oh, it went okay I guess. I got the drug test done, but also got some pretty disturbing news," I said solemnly.

"Oh, how bad?" he said slowly.

"Not bad for me really, just confusing. Something about that kid Diego, don't really wanna talk about it right now though" I said quietly. I didn't. My mood was okay right now, and I didn't want to think about Diego and Alvin at the moment.

"Ah, I see" He said understandingly "Well, it's your lunch break right?"

"Yep" I said.

"Well, I'm out now, I can come by and get you?" He said happily.

"Oh" I sighed, guilt overcoming me "Um...I already ordered something, but I can still go-"

"Oh, no you don't have to, it's okay" he said quickly. Now I felt bad. "But maybe I can just stop by later? You don't have a ride home you know," He said brightly.

"Of course" I smiled "I wanna see you anyways"

"Me too" he replied softly. "Going to Taco Bell now, had to settle for fast food…" he droned. I laughed. I could see him now, opening up his food and examining it until he found something gross in it.

"Poor you," I giggled.

"Oh be quiet. I bet you're enjoying something unhealthy too." He said coyly.

"As if!" I said, acting offended. He laughed some more.

"Well, I'll let you eat your heart attack food," he said, leaving me with the image of a smirk on his face.

"Yeah you will, and I'll enjoy it!" I smiled.

"Whatever." He chuckled "See you later, then."

"Kay, I love you," I said, smiling.

"Love you too." He said softly. My phone clicked as he hung up and I soon followed. I smiled to myself again and then picked up the chicken sandwich in front of me. It was greasy and covered in ketchup and mustard. Just how I liked it. Grease dripped from the bun onto the table, which was gross to think about, but made my mouth water as I thought of the taste. I munched down and was quickly satisfied.

"So I guess our food isn't as bad as I thought." A voice said sarcastically. I looked up, food still in my mouth. It was the blonde. What was his name? He didn't tell me, did he...? I swallowed.

"Not at all." I said. He chuckled and sat down across from me, a sandwich in his hand as well.

"Well, good, 'cause I'm trusting your tastes on this," He said, showing me the sandwich. It was the same as mine.

"Oh, trust me, its good" I said, taking another bite. He did the same.

"Mmm, your right" he said happily, and wiped his mouth with one of my napkins. He sure was comfortable around me. "By the way, I'm Eli." He said, holding out his hand. I took it. He was polite, even if he was quirky.

"Haden," I said, answering any thoughts he had about my name.

"Haden? Cute name for a cute guy," He said, smiling and raising his eyebrows at me.

Wha...did he just call me... cute? I felt my cheeks getting warm again. He sat there, as if nothing had happened and took another bite of his sandwich. I stared and looked away, then I looked back. I hadn't even thought about him actually being gay, just looking it. It must have been obvious that I was surprised by his statement because he started laughing.

"Don't worry, I'm not hitting on you, I'm just saying what I think," He said in his bubbly voice, and smiling his oh so friendly smile. "One of my not so good traits." He chuckled some more and took another bite. I laughed silently and shoved some fries in my mouth. This guy was blunt, quirky, girly, manly and too confusing!

"Well, Eli doesn't suit you that much either, your too goofy" I said jokingly, finally gathering myself together and trying to forget my sudden embarrassment.

"Thanks," he said, as if I had just completely flattered him. I didn't know what to think; let alone say. So I continued to devour my sandwich as we sat in silence

'Well, I cant just sit here, what if he feels just as awkward...' I thought, as usual. I swallowed. I did want friends, surprisingly...

"So you are gay." He said suddenly, emphasizing the word are. He must have seen me blush.

"W-what?" I asked, dumfounded again by his bluntness.

"Just wondering, wanna know if my assumption was right. Testing my skills of reading people, ya' know?" he said nonchalantly, taking a sip of his drink. "I mean, that's always been one of my good traits, sometimes" he said laughing. I laughed too, still surprised.

"Oh, I'd like that quality, it'd help me out a lot" I said, chuckling. He was easy to get along with, once you got over the fact he'd say whatever was on his mind.

"So, are you gay?" he asked again.

"No" I said quickly. But I instantly felt like I was lying. I knew what I said was technically wrong… "Not exactly..." I wasn't. I never considered myself that, even if I did have a boyfriend. I was a girl at heart, but that made it sound so... weird. He looked curious, but then another expression crossed his face when I didn't continue right away.

"You don't have to tell me if you really don't wanna, but just know I don't mind. I know plenty of crazy people and trust me, I'm one of them. Don't be shy now!" he laughed. I smiled, feeling a little relaxed.

"Well, I guess people would call me gay, if they didn't know me," I said slowly "But I don't consider myself gay, even if I have a boyfriend-"

"So that's who you were talking to on your phone! I knew it!" he said, pointing his finger at me accusingly. I laughed.

"Yeah…" I smiled to myself. It was nice to be able to talk to someone so comfortably about Tommy; not having to worry about their reaction.

"I figured it was someone important, you were practically glowing when you hung up," He continued. I was? I smiled to myself. "So, if you're not gay, then maybe your Bi?" I gulped down my drink and almost choked. Nope! Not liking girls like that anytime soon! He laughed.

"Okay, no, then I guess you're part girl, seeing as that's the only way you could have a boyfriend and be a guy and not be gay," he said joyfully, sounding almost like an accomplished child. I didn't respond, but didn't feel weird either.

"I guess that makes sense" I finally said, wiping my mouth. He smiled widely.

"Told you I was good at reading people!" He popped the last bit of his sandwich into his mouth and wiped his hands. "So, what are you like actually part girl as in transgender or just a tranny, like dress up type? 'Cause I know a few of those" he said gleefully. "I find them rather interesting, but you don't seem like the type I'm thinking of…" He said, cocking his eyebrow.

"Oh, no I'm all guy, my body at least," I said slowly. Why was I so comfortably explaining my secrets all of sudden? "Just have always felt I was in the wrong body, I guess" I finished. I suddenly didn't want to tell him anymore. I didn't know him after all. But he had figured me out and befriended me within five minutes of knowing me, so I was all right.

"I see, interesting. Does your lover know?" he said, seeming to catch my hint.

"Of course," I said reminiscently, thinking of the first time Tommy found me out.

"Well, that's nice. You know, you're lucky" he said, smiling. That stopped me in my tracks. Me? Lucky? No way. He couldn't read me that well apparently. I didn't speak though, just laughed under my breath and took another sip of my drink.

"What! I'm being serious!" he said, putting his hand to his chest. "Hey, I'm just gay and have no wishes to be a girl, but I probably get more crap than you," He snorted.

"Well its just I've never been told that," I said, still smiling. But I doubted what he had said.

"Oh, whatever" he said, taking one of my fries.

"So, what are you going to college for?" I asked, trying to act just as comfortably as he was. We had been talking for a while, but it had been all about me. I wanted to know more about this interesting character.

"Oh, nothing in particular, just the basics," he said casually "haven't really decided on a major yet."

"That's good. Take your time. Serious college isn't all that fun." I said sarcastically. He laughed.

"Yeah, but I'd rather have a life and not work at this place for ever," he said, waving his hand in the air. He was right. I definitely wouldn't work here.

"So, what about you?" he asked.

"Oh, I've got one more year of law school, but have yet to finish" I said, sourly. I really didn't want to finish. Not because I didn't want to be a lawyer, but because I really felt I was fine now, without more college.

"Hm, so you're a lawyer. I knew that too!" he said slyly.

"Yep, here to make your life miserable!" I joked. He laughed and then glanced down at his cell phone.

"Ay, Eli, these fries don't make themselves!" A guy from behind the counter yelled. His boss?

"Yeah, I know. Well, my breaks over," he said, sighing "It was nice talking to you, hopefully I'll see you around here again." He said standing up and turning to leave. "Plus, I've still got plenty of uncovering to do with you," he said over his shoulder, a smirk on his face. I smiled.

"Yeah, yeah. Nice talking to you too. And don't worry I'll be back." I waved as he walked away; strutted actually. What a weird guy.

***

After that rather amusing conversation at Joes, I went back to my office and lazed around until Tommy arrived. I should have been working but I really wasn't in the mood for some reason. I was sitting at my desk, playing with my bubble gum, when Tommy walked in.

"I see your being very productive today." he said sarcastically, shutting the door behind him.

"I know," I said plopping the gum back in my mouth. I got up and ran over to him, jumping up and smothering him in a hug. Even though he was much taller than me, I still could pull myself onto him quite easily and knock him over, when needed. He gave me great leverage, I guess.

He caught me as I wrapped my arms around him and held me up. I buried my face in his shoulder and breathed in.

"I missed you.." I said slowly, letting my eyes close as he continued to hold me. He chuckled.

"Yeah, cause I've been gone sooo long," he said, sarcastically again, giving me a squeeze. I lifted my head up so I could face him and he smiled.

"No, just had a long day, I guess," I said, making sure I sounded tired, even though I didn't have to try. Even though I hadn't worked that long, I had been doing a lot of thinking. All of this bad stuff left me in a bad mood. It always did. And Tommy always cheered me up. As I said before, I do love my job, but I love him more. I wasn't lying when I said I missed him. And luckily it was Friday, no work for two whole days.

He smiled some more and kissed me on the forehead, while bringing his hands dangerously close to my behind.

"Well, I can always make you happy again," he said coyly.

"Oh, come one. Not in my office.." I said, attempting to slide off of him, but he only pulled me closer.

"Like we haven't done it before.." he said quietly. I smiled, biting my bottom lip. I could use a little fun, but not so easily...I leaned in and kissed him lightly, dragging my hands over his own. I pulled back before he could respond to the kiss and pulled his hands apart, jumping off of him.

"H-hey!" he stumbled back and went to grab me as I ran for my....desk? Bad planning. "No fair!" he yelled chasing after me.

"No fair? You wanna do me in my office, you gotta work for it!" I laughed as I ran for my desk. How it would help me, I do not know. I reached my chair and was about shove myself down onto it-

"Ahh!" I shrieked as he grabbed my hand and pulled me back. He spun me around and smashed me into his chest, this time gripping me more tightly. I looked up to see a big smirk on his face.

"That was easy.." he said, releasing my hand and bringing his fingers under my chin. My expression changed from giddy to relaxed as he titled my head up, bringing it closer and closer to his. His eyes turned to slits as he leaned in. His grip on me loosened almost completely, as he believed he had won. I slowly let my eyes fall close, but only for a second. Just until he closed his eyes all the way...

"Ha ha!" I sang triumphantly, ducking down from his face and bolting to the side. His finger tips grazed my hand as he attempted to retrieve me. I giggled as I looked back and saw an evil, evil grin on his face. I knew that smile.

I stopped running and stood at the other end of the office, smiling coyly. He didn't move. I didn't either. We both knew that whoever made the first move was going to most likely get tricked by the other. But if we didn't move, we'd be letting the other person win; and that wasn't about to happen.

Tommy darted for me, arms outstretched and fingers ready to grab me the moment they touched me. I, of course, ran too. To the opposite side of the room. He continued after me and we circled the office about two times before Tommy got smart and turned around suddenly, surprising me and making me trip. I fell to the floor and started to scream for mercy as I tried to get up. He was inches behind me when I finally managed to stand up. I jumped and ran forward, stumbling some more, as he grabbed my shirt.

"Wait! Wait! Time out" I yelled quickly, laughing and pulling at his hands.

"W-what.." he was breathing heavily, just like I was.

"My..shir...tt...Don't, oh...rip it.." I said. He let go. Gotcha. I stood for second to make him believe I wasn't going anywhere, then I laughed and dashed towards my bathroom door, busting the door open. He was right behind me, laughing along with me, but in a more annoyed fashion. Hmm, maybe I was dragging it on to long, but....this is fun!

"You little..." he started, shoving his full body weight against the door as I went to shut it. Damn. I pushed with all my might, but to no avail. He was indeed much stronger than me. I just had to get him away for a second. I turned around to face the door with my front and shoved hard. My feet started sliding against the tile of the bathroom and I squealed. I was about to give up when THUMP. I was on my knees. Tommy had suddenly let go of the door and it had slammed shut. I sat there for a second and listened. I stood up, triumphant and heaving with excitement. I reached for the door handle and turned. I opened the door slightly, just so I could peek out. No one was there. I stood up, the door still slightly open and took a breath. Suddenly hands were inside the door, reaching for my waist. One hand grabbed a hold of my belt and the other began tickling me furiously.

"Ahhhaha...No Fair!!" I heaved, laughing hysterically. My hands fell from the door and to the intruding fingers tickling me. The tickling continued until I was laughing hysterically, tears running down my face.

"T-Tommy!!" My body was weak and I felt I was going to collapse if I didn't catch a breath soon. During all of the laughing and begging, Tommy had managed to get in the bathroom and was tickling me mercilessly against the door.

"Okay...o-okay!! I give...UP!" I said, throwing my hands in the air and letting my knees give out. I started to slide down the wall, but was hoisted back up by two strong arms. Tommy held me up against the door, smiling at me sweetly. My face was flushed and wet with tears as I smiled back.

"Guess I win.." Tommy breathed slowly and rested his forehead against mine. I smiled and leaned into him, wrapping my arms loosely around his neck. I fell limp against his body as I contemplated what he said.

"Actually.." I said quietly "You wanted to fuck me in my office. I didn't. Were in the bathroom now, are we not?" I said coyly, staring playfully into his eyes. He grinned, knowing I was right, but also, at the fact I had said 'fuck'. I didn't swear that often. I smiled back and pressed my lips against his, bringing us into a much awaited kiss...

***

We had quite the time after that, with me pressed up against the wall and Tommy giving me all I wanted and more, keeping me begging until the end. It took every ounce of strength I had not to scream out. I was at work after all. Even if Randy wasn't there, others would hear and I don't think I would keep my job for long after.

Tommy was sprawled out in one of my chairs, watching something on the TV now. He was indeed exhausted after holding me up for nearly half an hour straight. But that was my favorite... ya' know, position after all and we didn't do it often. No doubt he was strong, but not so much when it came to keeping me satisfied..

I laughed to myself as I thought about it and grabbed my notebook from inside my desk drawer.

"What's so funny?" Tommy asked curiously. He gave me an inquisitive look and smirked.

"Can't you read my mind?" I said smugly. He snorted and turned back to the TV. "You gonna write some more?" He asked.

"Yeah," I sighed. I was getting to the good part after all. I picked up my pen and got comfortable.

"Good," Tommy said quietly. I looked over at him, but he kept his eyes on the TV. I smiled. I knew it. He was enjoying my story and couldn't wait for the rest. I had a fan! Even if he was my boyfriend...whatever.

***

Time passed, people came and went and soon the sun set and all the lights in my grandparents back yard were turned on. People were dancing together, swimming, eating and having an all around good time. I was reading a pretty good book and didn't mind the odd looks I got from time to time. I know what they were thinking. 'Oh, that's Cassedies little brother. She says he quiet. Why isn't he swimming? Isn't he bored?' Maybe I was, but what was I going to do? I didn't want to swim, nor did I want to dance. With any of them at least.

I watched Cassedie joke around and flirt with guys, just as Emily was. Julia swam mostly and played with my mother, when she allowed her. My dad continued to drink and stare at me from afar. I never caught his eye though. He was going to be drunk tonight. Great. The only word that ever came to my mind was 'Great' when he was drunk. He treated all of us like crap when he was drunk. Even his precious darling Julia.

Speaking of, Julia came to sit with me that night. Only once. I remember everything she said to me, as if it was yesterday. And for good reason..

"What are you doing?" She asked innocently, sitting in a chair next to me. She was adorable, just what my parents had wanted. She had been adopted after all. Like I said before, my parents hadn't exactly planned on having me and when they did, they didn't want me. My father had wanted one last girl and since he didn't get that, they adopted. The darling Julia.

"Reading," I said, not taking my eyes off my book. She wasn't a brat or anything, quite the opposite. She was innocent and curious, always asking questions. She may have very well become a renowned genius, had it not been for her bad up bringing.

"Oh," she said quietly. She continued to sit there and I could feel her staring at me. I looked up at her, granting her the attention she seemed to want.

"Did you need something?" I asked. She was indeed darling. She had a dainty face that looked almost like a baby dolls. Her cheeks were a soft pink and her eyes a shocking green. Her brown hair was in two pigtails, which were usually curly and filled with hair spray, despite her age. My mother loved dressing her up since Cassedie disliked it and Emily was, well, Emily.

"No, you just looked sad," she said, tugging at her bathing suit. It was a one piece that was pink and had yellow frills around the waist, like a mini ballerina outfit. Her favorite type of clothes. She was a ballerina after all. She would practice day in and day out, mostly because my mother made her but on rare occasions I would see an expression on her face that told me she loved it.

"Oh, I'm not sad, don't you worry" I chuckled and gave her a pat on the head. She giggled and put her finger in her mouth, chewing on it. A bad habit she had developed from who knows where.

"Don't, you know that's bad, Julia." I scolded, taking her finger from her mouth. She sighed and sat back in her chair. She was staring off into the distance with a blank expression on her face. We sat there in silence for a few minutes both deep in our thoughts.

"Haden," she said suddenly, not looking at me.

"Yes?" I inquired, looking down at the top of her head. She was quiet for a little longer, still not looking at me. I thought she had just forgotten what she was going to say when she finally spoke up.

"Is mommy a liar?" she asked, turning to face me. My mouth hung open, dumfounded for a moment.

"What? N-no! What makes you say that? Did someone say that about her?" I asked worriedly. Stupid bad mouthing people, calling us names just 'cause we had money..

"No, it's just... I think she lied to me," she said, looking away at the pool and the herds of people inside of it.

"..About what?" I said quietly, a little scared of what she might say. She then turned back to me, her big round eyes piercing through me.

"About you," she said softly . I didn't know what to say at first. I just stared back at her, trying to think of the best thing to say. What on earth do you say to a seven year old who thinks their own mom is a liar?? And lies to her children at that?

"W-well," I stuttered "I don't believe that mom would lie, so don't you worry about that either," I said, forcing a smile. She looked at me, straight into my eyes and then she smiled, her beautiful green eyes glimmering.

"Okay," she said happily. She then stood up and began to walk away. But curiosity never ceases to overcome me and I grabbed her wrist, tugging slightly. She turned back, surprised.

"Wait, what did mommy say about me that you think is a lie?" I said quickly, almost instantly regretting I ever asked. She looked back at me, the smile fading from her face.

"That you were gay." she said matter-of-factly. My cheeks went a bright red and I dropped her wrist. Luckily it was dark and she couldn't tell. She... "I'm gonna go swim now!" she smiled and skipped away, humming to herself. My mouth hung open, ready to shout 'That's a lie!' but also in complete and utter shock. I couldn't believe it then, but it's all too believable now. Julia was corrupted from day one. Blinded by my parents ignorance to the rest of the world. She was precious to them and them to her. She believed every word that ever left their mouths and entrusted her entire being in them. How I wish I could be like that with someone and yet I hoped so much that I never was.

After that awkward incident, I didn't really read that much. I just kind of sat there, staring off into the crowd, my music blaring in my ears as I tried to cover up the music from the outside. My sisters danced, including Julia. She looked over at me a lot after that talk. She would smile and wave and the turn back to her friends. Emily was dirty dancing with probably six different guys and I couldn't understand how she could just give herself up like that. If I ever was going to dance like that or do anything of the sort with someone, they would have to be very special to me.

I saw Cassedie dancing with a few particular guys several times through out the night, but definitely not like Emily. There was one guy that looked a bit younger than Cassedie and she was by his side a lot. They were throwing food at each other at one point of the night and she seemed to be enjoying her self . Maybe it was one of her good friends. She also came over and talked to me every once in awhile, asking how I was and if she looked okay. Of course she did. She always did. Silly Cassedie.

When a particularly annoying song came one, I glared into my book and blasted my music all the way. It was some heavy beat music' basically sex music for Emily. I hated this stupid music. Probably something Emily picked out so she could make out with all the guys in the crowd without really being noticed.

***

My music was so loud and my vision so keenly fixed on my book that I didn't even notice the person standing in front of me for, I think, a good five minutes. When I finally did glance up after feeling someone watching me, I saw him. The same guy that Cassedie had been hanging out with a lot. He was standing there, a soda can in his hand, staring at me, his body wet and his mouth moving but not a word being heard.

"I-I'm sorry, what?" I said, pulling my headphones out feeling completely embarrassed. I hadn't heard a word he was saying and he seemed to be trying to have a full conversation with me.

"Oh, so that explains your silence. Man, I heard you were quiet, but I was starting to think you were just flat out ignoring me!" He laughed, taking a drink of his soda and sitting down next to me. I smiled shyly and nodded. He had brown hair and green eyes' almost as green as Julia's. The music was blaring and I barley understood him. He then stuck out his free hand and proceeded to say something along the lines of 'Hi...I.. o... my.'

"What?" I yelled, cupping my ear with my hand. He leaned over and yelled back.

"I'm Tommy!" he smiled, sticking his hand out again. I took it and yelled "I'm Haden,"

"Hm?" he said, copying my earlier movement of cupping his ear, but then laughed and waved his hand at me. "Just kidding." He said taking another sip of his soda. I laughed too, smiling eagerly. He was friendly and good looking if I might add. But this was different for me. Someone was talking to me and joking with me. No one ever made the first move like that. It was always awkward and I tried to keep people at a distance, avoiding whatever they had to say about my supposed gayness. But not with him.

"So what ya' listening to?" he said, grabbing my free headphone and putting it in his ear. I was taken a back and felt a blush creep onto my face. Most people didn't like my music back then and I wouldn't like it now either. Some rock band that screamed to much but it was just some phase, I guess. But Tommy was different, different from everyone.

"Hey! I like this one! Where did you get it? I can never find it online," he said grinning at me.

"Oh, it took me awhile, but I can get it for you, on a CD?" I said, giving him a smile back.

"Oh, wow that'd be awesome! Your sister was right, your shy but your totally a great guy," he said, smiling at me in a way that I could never smile at anyone else. He hummed to the song and bobbed his head. I looked back at him, my face and mind blank for only a second as he flashed that heart melting grin at me. I didn't recognize what I felt at that very moment back then, but now...my heart fluttered and I felt completely and undeniably relaxed. Every part of my body felt warm when he smiled at me and I felt...safe. I felt love.

Now don't think just because he was being friendly that I just let him in like that. Oh no. He could definitely be playing some prank on me or doing some scheme for Emily, but I was scared back then and not trusting. It took a lot to be my friend back then.

"So, I guess you don't like this music either?" he said pointing to the DJ across the pool. I shook my head.

"No, too... I don't now, dancy?" I said, giggling. "I don't like to dance that much.." I said looking away.

"Don't like dancing? Oh now, that cant be true! Everyone likes to dance, your just shy," he said teasing me and poking my arm. I shrugged and smiled.

"No, just don't like it," I said, trying to avoid his poking.

"No your just shy, your just shy!" he sang, like Emily had in the car, while still poking me. I laughed and tried to get up and get away from his poking. He grinned at me and stopped when I finally said 'Okay!' flailing my arms around and almost running away. I sighed and sat back down. We sat back in silence, staring at the crowd and my thoughts started to wander. Why was he talking to me? Why was he being so friendly? Trust me. I didn't have a crush on this guy instantly, nor did I ever think of him liking me like that back then. We were too young. It was innocent friendship. Two people brought together, not one knowing why, but knowing that it felt right. I was smiling to myself, thinking of how nice it would be to actually have a guy friend. Then maybe my mom wouldn't think I was so...gay. I winced at the thought of what she had actually said to Julia. Would she really say something like that to her? Was she really that messed up?

"So have you ever even tried to dance?" Tommy said suddenly, or rather yelled over the music.

"No!" I said, as if he had just asked me if i was gay too. I was all defensive now, feeling as if the whole world could see me and my desires. If my mom knew I was a freak, who else did?

"Okay, sorry," He said, rubbing the back of his neck and sipping his soda. I was a little embarrassed at my reaction. I really needed to stop thinking everyone was out to get me..

"Wanna dance with me?" Tommy asked, might I say, shyly? He looked at me for a second and then away. His spunk seemed to have faded but only for a second. He looked back at me, grinning again. I stared at him like he was crazy.

"What?" I yelled.

"Wanna dance with me!" he repeated, setting down his can. He stood up and walked towards me. I scrunched back into my chair, as if he was going to hit me.

"No! I cant dance, I told you," I said, avoiding his gaze. I was NOT dancing with all these people staring and with a guy at that. Too obvious!

"Oh, c'mon, we don't even have to dance here," he said waving his hand around. He could read my mind,even back then. He always could. It was as if he knew me perfectly, since the first time he met me, he understood me.

"W-well, where do you plan on dancing, then?" I said, still sitting, not making a move.

"Um, the front yard? No one's out there, I've been there to get stuff from my parents car. Everyone's here or inside," he said sheepishly, rubbing the back of his neck again. "And the music's quiet enough so we can talk without screaming but loud enough so we can practice dancing," he held out his hand to me. I looked up,completely baffled as to why he wanted to teach me to dance. I was a child and so was he. It was playing to us, it was fun.

His eyes met mine and he smiled. Soon I forgot my fears and took his hand, sighing and smiling back. It couldn't hurt? I wanted a friend, so I had to make an effort, didn't I? If I'd only known what he would become to me later on...

***

We made our way to the front yard, and all the while he held my hand. My face was so red when we finally left the backyard, I thought I might pop. EVERYONE had seen him holding my hand! If they had thought I was gay before, I had just confirmed their theories now! But I wasn't gay, I was..a girl. But not to them.

Tommy didn't seem to care one bit. He was smiling and telling me things over his shoulder as he pulled me through the crowd. Saying things about dance moves and how I would have so much fun. He seemed pretty excited. Maybe he liked teaching?

"Okay, this place is good." he said, when we were in the front lawn. He walked around and studied the ground, as if it was that important. I stood there, my cheeks still red, my hands behind my back. "So, my mom and dad used to swing dance. My mom taught me a few dances, not that I'm any good, but I'll teach you one of them, they're the funnest. Okay?" he said coming closer to me. Even then he was so much taller than me..

"U-um.." I said, still clutching my hands together behind my back.

"Oh, c'mon, don't be shy! No one's here and I'm just as bad as you, just relax! Have fun!" He said reaching behind me and grabbing my hands. He pulled them out and put one on his shoulder and the other he took in his own hand. I felt my heart flutter just as before, but couldn't pin point what it was back then. I just smiled and looked at my feet.

"Okay, you be the girl, since your shorter, and you just follow me," He said placing his other hand on my side. I nodded and didn't object. I wanted to be the girl anyways. He didn't seem to mind when I didn't protest either. He just smiled and started to move. "Now, just move your feet with mine, it doesn't have to be in any particular way yet, just so that your moving with me," he said looking down at our feet. I did the same. I stepped on his feet several times but he just laughed it off, saying he had done the same thing too. We danced around for awhile like that, until I wasn't stepping on his feet anymore and then he pulled away. He kept one hand on my own and the other went behind him. I copied. Then he pulled me back, his arm that my hand was holding, wrapping around me and pulling me into his body. Then he spun me back out and around. I laughed.

"See! It is fun! But this is just the basics," He said spinning me again. We did the same thing for nearly fifteen minutes, laughing and spinning each other around over and over. It may have very well been romantic if we weren't children. I felt so safe while we dance and I hadn't had so much fun in a long time. I got too dizzy and almost fell over at one point but he caught me.

"Hey, maybe we can do one last thing," He said, placing his one hand back on my side and the other in my hand. I nodded.

"Okay, is it fun?" I said giggling. I was flushed and bubbly, like a girl.

"Of course!" he said, leading me into a dance. It was the same as before, him leading me around the lawn and then us letting one hand go and keeping the other together as he spun me out. It wasn't until he pulled me back into him that the dance changed. When he did so, he turned me back out and pulled my hand up in the air Then he twirled me and as I went around he grabbed my waist and pulled me close, telling me to lean back. I did. His one hand was on my back, holding me as I leaned back, letting my other arm fall behind me. It was like in a movie. Where the man holds the women and kisses her neck as he spins and dips her. I could feel his breath on my neck, close to my collar bone but the moment only lasted a for a second. Then I was pulled back up, my blood rushing from my head back down to my body. I smiled and breathed heavily.

"See, that was fun right?" he said smiling and letting go of me. I nodded furiously again. Of course it was, I felt like a girl, like a princess or a ballerina, being twirled by her partner.

"Great! Its funny no other girl wanted to dance like that. They didn't think it would be fun, but your cool," he said laughing and poking my arm again. I laughed too. Stupid girls didn't know what they were missing..

"Haden, Tommy! Time for cake and presents!" I heard my moms voice. We both turned to see her standing in the front door way. I froze. How long had she been watching?

"Kay, Mrs. Simmons!" Tommy yelled. She smiled and went back in the house. Tommy started walking away, heading for the back yard but I didn't budge. What had she seen? Now what would she think of me? It was one thing to have a guy friend, but to be dancing with him...Tommy interrupted my thoughts by calling my name. He had stopped and turned around, walking back towards me.

"Hey, come on. Cake and presents!" He smiled and grabbed my hand again, pulling me with him. Warmth overcame me again and I felt safe, yet I was terrified of what my mother had seen. What anyone had seen. And he was holding my hand again! But for some reason I didn't care. I didn't pull away. I felt warm when he touched me and I let him, knowing all to well that good things don't always last.

***

"Okay!! Party time!" Cassedie shrieked when we found her by the cake. It was a large one, decked out with every fancy design possible and covered in twelve flickering candles. She waved at me then Tommy, smiling at him like a school girl. I stood opposite of her and Tommy behind me. He wasn't holding my hand anymore, but he was still with me. Maybe he really did want to be my friend. He wasn't by Cassedies side after all and they had seemed so friendly together. Cassedie stared across the cake at us and then mom, dad and her friends. My mom smiled widely again and gave her a reassuring look.

"Okay, one, two, three! Happy birthday.." She sang, and soon everyone else followed. Bellowing behind me was Tommy. He smiled and laughed when I turned around and gave him a 'Your loud!' expression. I looked back and sang too. I didn't mind this part. I always loved seeing candles when they were lighted, flickering and giving an eery glow to the room, or rather the backyard.

When the song was over, everyone smiled, including Cassedie and egged her on. 'Blow out the candles! However many you don't blow out is the amount of boyfriends you'll have!' Emily said coyly. 'Hurry before the wind does! Make a wish! But be careful what you wish for!' I didn't say anything, just smiled at her, telling her to go ahead. She seemed to be staring back at me, an odd expression on her face. But when I smiled at her, she didn't respond. She was staring at someone else. Not me, but the person behind me. Tommy. A soft smile resting on her face.

I loved this part of birthdays too, making my wish. Every birthday I wished for the same thing. That one day I could be a real girl. I sounded like a bad version of Pinocchio. But every year my wish was never granted. I never told anyone my wish, which I knew would jinx it and make it not come true, so why didn't it? Cassedie always told me her wishes though, and granted, many of them didn't come true. But her realistic ones always did. Maybe I should tell her mine...

But that night, she stared off, beyond me, her face glowing orange in the flickering light of the candles. Then she bent down and blew. It wouldn't be until years later that I found out what she had wished for. Something I never would have thought of until now. She had wished for someone. Someone known as Tommy, to fall in love with her.

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A.E.

Okay! SO this chapter is definitely longer than the others and is definitely one of my favorites. I really wanna write all my chapters with this much length, but as you can see, it takes awhile. I'm starting to go into the depths of the story now and hopefully it wont overwhelm me!

And I read it over and over and spell checked it a gazillion times just for Shelley Anderson. LOL She pointed out how many times I made mistakes and I was even shocked! But I tried really hard to get all of them this time, but do point out any if you want ^^

Shelley Anderson: Hope I got all of the apostrophes, lol XD

Az-Zalzala: Thanks so much lol and I do hope you like all of my characters, except maybe a few...lol

Love all of you who read, and fave and love, love, love those who review! You guys are amazing! So enjoy and tell me what cha think! :)