Syndrome

Heading inside, everyone took a seat on the few pieces of furniture that Gavin hadn't built with his own hands.

"So, what shall we talk about?" Gavin asked, bringing in a tray of glasses filled with freshly squeezed lemonade.

"Is anything off limits? We don't want to make uncomfortable." Rowan said.

"Oh... Umm... No, nothing's off limit. You're more than welcomed to ask whatever you want. I may not be able to answer, but I'll try."

"Cool!" she smiled, "Well, let's start with intros."

"Okay, whichever ones wants to go first." Rex said, shifting the conversation.

"I'll go first!" Leo said, excitedly.

"Pass... Fish, you start." Rex said, trying to save himself from having to beat on Leo.

"Okay. I'll do all intros then. My name's Fischer Greyrose. I'm Rex's best bestie in the whole universe. This is Lambert Northcote, the love of my life.

And last, this is Leonardo Troublefield. Rexi's love-bug."

"Fish..." Rex shot out, before taking a sip of lemonade."

"What? What happened?..." he asked, with a laugh.

"Ahh, your mom said you had a boyfriend. It's nice to meet you Leonardo." Gavin said, turning to look at him, "It's nice to meet you as well, Fischer, Lambert."

"I hope you've heard good things about me?" Leo asked, with a laugh.

"I think so... You and I will have to have a little man-to-man later." he said, arching an eyebrow at him, "But anyway, I thank you all for taking care of my son. There's no way to truly thank you, but I hope my words alone can convey it... and dinner. I made so much food that I don't think I'll have anywhere to store it. I may have went a bit overboard. I wasn't sure what you liked though." he said, turning his attention to Rex, "If you ate meat or not. If you had allergies..." he laughed, nervously.

"Oh... That's so sweet you didn't have to do all that. I eat pretty much anything. I'm sure you cooked an amazing spread." Rex said, shaking his leg like he was trying to dig a whole to freedom.

"Anyway, do you mind if we talk alone?" Rowan asked, wanting to have a moment alone with her brother.

Rex looked up at her, unsure of what to say, "S-Sure... If that's what you want?"

"It is indeed." she smiled warmly. She hopped up and grabbed his hand. With that she lead the way to her room. It was a medium size room with a bed that had obviously been hand crafted. It had this whole shabby chic thing going on. From the lacy bed skirt, to the drift wood looking headboard and foot board. In the corner of the room sat a violin, with a keyboard propped up next to it.

She took a seat on the bed and asked Rex to close the door and come take a seat next to her. He did as she said, and hesitantly took a seat.

"I thought if you and I had a chance to speak alone you wouldn't be do nervous. I thought you were gonna drill a hole in the floor." she laughed.

"I'm not that nervous. Maybe at the most, I added a dent to the floor." he chuckled, "Is... Is this weird for you? I mean, you recall having a twin sibling... Whereas I, have no recollection once so ever. I'm sorry, if I'm being rather aloof... I'm just catching my breath still. OK, you talk 'cause I could keep going on with my ramblings. Give me something to talk about. I really want to get to know you. It'll be strange to have a sister... But not in a bad way... Definitely not."

"Omg, I know what you mean... No worries. But there's no need to be nervous, but I get it. Dad's trying to play it off like he's mister-altogether, but he's a wreck. He probably made every type of dish he knew how to make. Even some he didn't. As far as conversation goes, ask me anything. You go first."

"What's your last memory of us together?"

"Ahh, that's a good one. Last memory... I'd have to say, it was three days before the kidnapping. Daddy had one of his few days off, and mommy dressed us up in these poofy princess dresses that gramme had sewn up for us. I was Bell from beauty & the beast and you were Snow white—"

"Snow white? Was that on purpose?"

"I think it was purely a coincidence. But you were so cute! Anyway, yeah, so, we got dressed up and daddy took us to to this carnival. It was so magical. What I remember most is the food. Cotton candy, funnel cake, slurpees... We were sick as dogs when we got home, but we spent the whole day there. You were so happy. Smiling and laughing. We had a really good time. We spent every waking minute together. We even used to share a bed." Rowan said, a smile tugging at her full lips, "I know the years we had together weren't long, but I remember them clearly. Or as clearly as I can. You don't remember anything, though?"

"I remember the kidnapping... I didn't remember until I hit my head... But I wish I could've remembered sooner."

"I see... Well, like I said, it's no big deal. We're going to make new memories."

"I hope so. I'm excited! So, you and dad are okay with how I am, yes?"

"What do you mean?" she asked looking authentically confused. She couldn't understand what he met.

"I mean, with me being a boy... You had a sister and he had a daughter... I... I appreciate him acknowledging me as his son— I just want to make sure. 'Cause I feel like I'm still not sure of what gender I am or should be. But that's a whole other topic."

"Which ever gender you choose to be doesn't change the real you. The outside of you isn't you. You're not your body. Your soul, personality are who you are. Your true being can never be truly confined to just this outer appearance when there's so much more under all your layers. I hope this isn't too forward, but I love you already. Like, seriously I do. So, it doesn't matter. You're my blood, my sister my brother my other half. Okay?"

"Oh my gosh, you sound just like Leo. He'd love you. But, yeah, you're right. Thank you. One of these days I'll stop having to be pulled off the edge of my life."

"I don't mind talking you off the ledge. As long as you don't take the flying leap, I'll do my best to snatch you down. But changing subjects, let's talk about your cute boyfriend. Like, model?"

Rex smiled, and grabbed her hand. He couldn't figure out what it was about her, but she was another one of those people who could break down his *iron walls.

"You're too sweet. He's not a model. But he is rather handsome. His brother is a model. He's a twin, too by the way."

"He's a twin!! Hmm! Is he single?"

"I honestly don't know what he is aside from crazy. But he claims he's been in some magazines and on commercials. His names Wolfgang Troublefield. He and Leo look-alike aside from a few minor attributes. Total opposites."

"That's too bad. But how long have you and Leo been together? That must be fun to have a boyfriend?"

"It's been about... it hasn't been long. Gosh, almost two months. Give or take. But I love him... He's so sweet. Mum was telling me you don't date?"

"It's not for lack of wanting to. Daddy is really strict when it comes to dating." she sighed, rolling her eyes, "He says I can't date till I'm out of college and have a job. He's so silly. I'm responsible... But what can ya do? You might want to go get Leo, 'cause I'm sure he's going to get the dad-interview. He seems nice though. I met him once, I think when we were 12. I like your friends, too. Fischer's hair is really cool. I love the whole side shaved head. Totally gnarly. And his boyfriend, Lamb is definitely easy on the eyes. Those cerulean eyes are a heart stiller. Not to mention that gray streak in his hair. It makes me think he got hit with a lightning bolt. I so want to dye my hair. You don't know how strict dad is! Like ugh... I hope that's not insensitive? I'm sure you'd of taken his strictness over being kidnapped..."

"No, it's not insensitive. I understand. I was actually going to ask if you thought of me as the reason why our parents broke up?"

"What?! No way! I hadn't even thought about it. I was wondering if you were going to hate me because I didn't get taken too!"

"No! I don't! I wouldn't wish what happened to have happened to you."

"Well, that's a relief. I've been out of my mind about that all day." she said with a *relieved sigh.

"Seems as though we both over worry." he said, getting up to look at her violin, "Anyway, I'm glad we got those questions out of the way. And I'm glad you like my friends."

"Me too!" she said, "So, what do you like to do for fun?"

"I like to read... Aside from that, not much else I guess. I like to swim... Love, would probably describe my relationship with water the best. I love water. If I'm near a body of water I want to swim in it. It really relaxes me. What about you? Mum said you play music at your school and you also sing?"

"Swimming is fun. I like to surf and paddle board. Water calms me too. Must be the twin thing." she giggled, "Yeah, I dabble in a few instruments. I've been playing violin since I was 8. I love it! Once I got to play other genres of music aside from classical I became enraptured with it. I enjoy the piano, but not as much as the violin. And choir is nice. Sometimes... Daddy enjoys me doing it. It masks him happy, so in turn it should make me happy too." she said with a deep sigh. She hated doing things she disliked. But she'd do anything to make her father happy.

"I see... Hey, mum said dad was a detective? Does he do carpentry on the side?"

"Carpentry is his full time gig. He stopped being a detective after he couldn't find you. He felt like his purpose had been destroyed. He was devastated. He tried so hard. Plus he had a bit of an accident with the chief and his partner. Long story short, he's been sober for a good few years. Yeah, last week was his eighth year of sobriety."

"He was an alcoholic?"

"Yeah, he was in rehab for four months. He already had some wood skills. But while he was there, he said they did some carpentry, which helped him rediscover his love for it. I'm not sure if he wanted to talk about that... It's not who he is, by any means. I promise, that under the strictness he's super sweet. And—"

"Whoa! Relax." he said, "Gosh that sounds so funny coming out of my mouth. Usually I'm the one having the mini meltdown." he laughed, "I'm sure that him having an issue with alcohol isn't who he is. It's what he did. So, I'm not worried. I'm happy he's sober and in a good place. I'm sure it was difficult having to deal with our parents divorce?"

Rowan shook her head and took a seat on the window seat, that looked out to a mass of palm trees, that led to the sea.

"It was… They are good friends now, so it beats the alternative of them fighting and hating each other. Maybe it wasn't as hard as it could've been. I mean, no one wants to be shuttled back and forth... As a little kid, it's hard to reason with. Going from always having both parents in the house to having one or the other... Pretty crazy."

"Well, I'm just happy to have them both in my life. And you. I'm happy we get along. I usually don't *jive well with girls. Long story short, they usually dislike me. A lot."

"We really are alike. Girls and me don't mix either. Most of my friends, unbeknownst to our dad, are boys. They're so much easier to get on with. You get in an argument with them one minute and the next you're already goofing off and forgetting what you were mad about. Girls hold heavy grudges. Which I have no time for. Not interested in drama." she said, tossing her hand up like she was over the nonsense.

"I think... No, recant, I know a lot about that. Still dealing with it in fact."

"Do tell! Who's messing with you?!"

Rex took a seat back on the bed, and gave her the spiel of all the girl drama that had gone on in his life.

******

Back down the hall, Gavin had headed to the kitchen. Leo offered to help, which, if he'd of known he was in for an interview he might've stayed seated.

"So, you weren't kidding about the mega spread, eh?" Leo asked, looking at the endless horizon of food.

"I've been up since 4 A.M. cooking. It helped with the nerves. But I just couldn't stop." he said, popping and appetizer into his mouth.

"Anyway, we'll get back to food in a moment. Let's talk about you and Rexalynn."

Leo's eyes lit up half happy and half nervous. He could boast about his favorite topic all day.

"I'm not going to ask you to stop dating him, because I know you've been here for him. I couldn't even if I wanted to. You're both adults, by law standards... I don't believe in dating so young, but—"

"Sir, if I may... I promise that Rex and I are responsible. I love him very much. I know we're young, but at the same time we're old enough to know what we feel.

I wouldn't do anything to hurt him.

I want you to feel reassured that you're leaving him in the right hands."

"You seem like a well rounded young man. But I was once you're age, and got distracted by a lot of temptations."

"If by temptations, you mean other women or men, that's a negatory in my book. I have on blinders when it comes to him. I feel like I should be honest with you and tell you that I was in a relationship when I fell for him, but I broke up with my ex- before he and I got serious."

"I see... I appreciate you telling me. I'm sure you're aware that he's intersex, and that he could still get pregnant." he took in a deep breath, "God I'm so bad at this..."

"No, I understand. We aren't having sex. If we were we'd use protection. This is probably the oddest conversation you've had to date, huh?"

"Probably. But I guess this makes for good practice for when Ro, starts dating. Which I fear is soon. And I thank you for being responsible. I just don't want any mistakes to be made."

"No mistake could ever come from Rex and me being together. If... by some chance we had children at an early age, it would be a beautiful thing. I could never abandon him, or our hypothetical children. I'm not that kind of guy."

"Would you marry him if that were to happen?" Gavin asked, turning off a pot of soup.

"Not because he got pregnant, but because I love him. That's the only reason to get married. Not to offend you, but you don't have to be married to raise kids. Hell, my parents have been married my entire life and they're a damn wreck as parents... But I digress. I love your son more than I could ever say. The words for how I feel have yet to come into existence. That is how much I love him."

"You're quiet the passionate young man, aren't you?" he laughed, "I think I like you, kid."

"Really?! I like you, too. Hey, could you tell Rex when he comes back, that you gave me his hand in marriage? He'll totally freak!" he said, with a snorted laugh.

"Sure... You remind me of myself when I was younger. But, uhh, if you'd want to talk about it, what are your parents like? You mentioned they weren't the best."

"Dude, they're failures as parents. They think that if they throw money at their issues, that it's all good. But they have a diluted since of status in their effed up world. They like to see their actions through rose colored glasses... They are a mess. I don't actually live with my folks anymore. I live with Lamb and his moms, currently. I'm looking for a job, so I can start saving up to move into a loft downtown."

"That's too bad. I'm sorry to hear that. Parents should definitely get along with their children. Never know when they could just disappear. Do you have any siblings?"

"Yeah... I don't think they'd be concerned if I went missing. But if my brother did, they'd put out a APB, call SWAT, FBI, CSI, NCIS... You name it they'd do it. Like, they'd have sky writers, blimps, posters, donations and--- it'd be on every channel in the galaxy. They are obsessed with my brother. Maybe not obsessed, so to speak, but they idolize his ass like he's some type of demigod."

"Some parents are really bad when it comes to favoritism. Some don't realize they're doing it, but it's a shame no matter what. I'm sure that must be difficult?"

Leo scoffed, "You have no idea..." he shook his head with a sigh, "I haven't seen my parents in a few weeks. I had life saving surgery last week or so, and was in a micro-coma for four days and neither of them even bothered to come see me. I mean, they're notorious for never being there for me. So, it's really unsurprising... Anyway, I'm sorry. I so shouldn't be piling my seventy-thousand-ton issues on you."

"No, it's alright. I asked and you answered. You're very open, an unguarded. I appreciate that."

"I hope this doesn't change your view of me? I'm not my parents mistakes! I think, given my past circumstances that I turned out pretty okay-ish..."

"I'm sure you did. And I don't hold your past against you, son. If someone held my past up to the current me... I'd seem like the worst person ever. We are surrounded by mistakes and bad choices, but they don't tell the full story of what really makes us who we are."

"That's so true!" he said, flashing him a smile.

"Indeed... Hey, did you say you were looking for a job?"

"Yes... I'm desperately searching for one."

"I see... Do you know anything about carpentry?" he asked, rubbing his chin with his index finger.

"A little. But I'm willing to learn. I think I could pick up the technique rather quickly. I mean, I've built houses before and worked on cars and things like that... What's a little sanding, scraping, and carving? It's artsy, which I enjoy and unique."

"That it is... Well, I could always use some help down at my shop. If you're interested?"

"Are you serious!? I'm totally interested. Thank you so much, Mr. Whitehorse!"

"Sure thing... And call me Gavin."

Leo smiled, and shook his head, "Oh, one more thing. Since you need so much help, what about I bring Lamb, too? He's good with his hand and would be a valuable asset?"

"Sure. The more the merrier." he said, pulling down some plates and glasses.

"So, Gavin, what was childhood like? I bet it was better than mine."

Gavin turned and looked at him with a small smile, "Umm... It was, different. I came for a single parent household. My mother wasn't the most affectionate woman. But she did her best to take care of me. She died a few years ago, and I didn't get a chance to tell her good bye. I hope that you and your parents can make up, son. I know it's hard to forgive them, but, I think you'd regret it if you didn't."

"But you haven't met my parents... I think you'd think differently. Although, I guess I get where you're coming from."

"I should meet your parents. Especially since you have plans to have a life long life with my son."

Leo laughed, "You're just as crazy as Rex. You should ask him about the meeting he had with them not too long ago. Catastrophic! I had my whole coming out and they were frothing at the mouth. My dad especially. I mean, they acted like I was a different species or some alien race. But I thank you for being cool about me and Rex. I'm happy he has such great parents. I would trade my parents for you and Karsyn, in a heart beat. If I could get them and myself on the same level ground, maybe... Just maybe, we could work things out. But I sadly doubt it."

"I don't really understand why parents wouldn't be understanding about their child being gay or trans or any of that. Nothing changes about them, save for the fact they are able to be free and happy. And as a parent, that should be all that matters. Your parents will come around..." he said, patting him on his shoulder, "Let's get this food out to the dining room, though. I'm going to have to make a lot of to-go plates."

"Ahh, you don't have to worry. I'll be first in line for my to-go bag." he said.

He couldn't help thinking his parents would eventually come around and learn to understand him. But he was sick of trying with them, when they didn't even try back. One sided loving wasn't doing him any good.

*****

Back in the living room, Fish was busy sending Umi one last email, and sixth text. He'd sent her several already and that was just today. She was doing her best to avoid her family.

"Uuuugghhh!!! I seriously can't take it!" he said, slapping his phone down on his lap in frustration.

"What's wrong, sweetie?"

Karsyn asked, looking at him concernedly.

"I'm sorry... My sister is being a total--" he paused, "I've been texting, calling, emailing... And she's just ignoring me. Like hello!!

I'm clearly worried about her. It's so odvi. I seriously can't deal!". he said, throwing his head back.

"Flores, I'm sure she's stealing reeling from the whole break up with Behrick. Just give a little more time." Lamb said, resting his hand on his thigh.

"Yeah, you're probably right. I just... I just wish she'd call me. I swung by her place and all the lights were off and her car was gone. I just want to make sure she's okay. She won't even talk to Iruka or our parents. It's insanity."

"She'll be OK. A takes time to heal a broken heart. Believe me. I know from experience." she said, as Gavin and Leo came back into the room.

She flashed him a quick smile and he copied. He didn't want to say how much he missed being with her. They had been divorced for ?? years. They were friends now, raising their two kids. They had moved on and were living two different lives. It wouldn't be fair to admits he still loved her as much as the first day he'd laid eyes on her.

"Hey, I'm gonna go grab Ro and Rex and then we can eat. Everything is laid out in the dining room. So please, help yourselves to as much as you can eat." he said, "Reg, would you show them where the dining room is. And pull out that cake from the fridge. I forgot to take it out."

"Sure thing." she said, pushing herself up off the couch.

"I'll grab that cake for you! I curious to know if you can bake as well." Leo said, with a laugh.

Gavin chuckled and headed down the hall. He could hear the sound of his kids talking and laughing like they hadn't spent a second apart. He smiled, feeling tears rushing to his eyes.

"So, she's hellbent on destroying you because Leo decided to leave her and be with you? What is she a fifth grader holding a grudge?! See, this is why I don't hang with chicks! Ugh. What are you going to do?"

"Nothing... What can I do?"

"NOTHING!!!? No, no, no! You've got to do something. She's insane! Wow..." Rowan said, as the sound of her door opening caught her attention.

"Hey, sorry to interrupt, but I thought you two might want to eat. Plus, you're hogging Rexalynn. I'd like some one on one time too."

"Is that so? We were just in the middle of a dire conversation, but I'll let you borrow him for, say, three and a half seconds?!" she said, skipping past him.

"Ohhh, almost four seconds. Don't hurt yourself, little girl." he scoffed, in a playfully ornery voice. He laughed and looked over at Rex who had just pushed himself up off of the bed. They locked eyes, as he made his way around the bed.

"I'm happy you're here."

"I'm-- I'm happy I'm here, too." Rex said, giving him a small smile.

Leading the way to the dinning room, everyone took their seats and fell into a nice conversation about school and Halloween that was right around the corner.

Sitting silently, Rex fiddled around with some food on his plate, struggling to find the words to say to Gavin. He'd never had a father who actually wanted something to do with him. He seemed so nice, and normal, and un-crazy.

"Is everything to your liking, Rexalynn?" Gavin asked, noticing he hadn't really touched his food.

"Oh, everything's perfect. Thank you for doing all of this. You really didn't have to."

"I was glad to. As I was telling Leo earlier, it helped me with my nerves." he said, spooning in a sip of soup into his mouth. He looked over at Leo, and smiled, "Hmm, I also thought I'd mention that I gave Leo your hand in marriage." he said, with a chuckle.

Rex about choked on the food he'd finally been able to get himself to eat.

"I--I-I'm sorry... What? Marriage?" he asked, whipping his head around to look at Leo, who was seated next to him. Leo let out a low snicker, as he added another round of food to his plate, "Please forgive him. Someone's clinically insane. You seriously didn't ask him if you could marry me did you?"

"If I did?" Leo asked, arching an eyebrow playfully, "He's all in. I just have to convince him to pay for the wedding and it'll be on from there."

"You're honestly too much, Troublefield. I knew I should've left you at home. You can't be trusted. It's obvious to me now." he sighed, and shook his head at him.

"You're mean! At least we have a blessing. Oh, and Mr. White-- I mean, Gavin gave me and Lamb a job. Which I need. Like mega bad."

"Oh wow, I got one, too?" Lamb asked, looking up from his plate momentarily.

"Yes, I could definitely use some extra hands."

"You even peddled for a job, too?" Rex asked, nudging him with a chuckle.

"Nah! Gavin offered. And I gladly obliged. Don't hate. Maybe if you ask him, he'll let you carve some wood, too."

"I'm good. I'm applying for a job at the bookstore inside of the mall. But you have fun. I'm sure you two can build us some furniture for our imaginary house while you're at it." he said, taking a sip of the sweet tea, that had been infused with an array of fruits, ranging from strawberries, apples and oranges.

"Don't tease me. 'Cause you know I'll do it."

Rex rolled his eyes.

"Anyway, what are you going to do for you birthday, Lamb? You said you're turning 19, right?"Rowan asked, shifting conversation. Rex smiled and worded a thank you.

"I'm not sure. My moms usually throw a huge party, and invite all my relatives. My mom seriously goes all out... like she's a really great event planner. But she can get a bit... crazy.." he laughed nervously, as he recalled a past party, "But there's no telling. You and Mr. Whitehorse should totally come. The more the better." he said, giving them an early invite.

"Thank you, that'd be so fun!" she said, "Now I just need to find you a gift."

As dinner continued, the conversation veered back to Leo and Rex's imaginary wedding, before it was time for dessert.

"Dude, if you ever get tired of being a carpenter, you could easily go be a chef. That was amazing!" Leo said, leaning back in his chair with a sigh.

Gavin smiled, as he headed around to collect the plates, "I'm happy my cooking didn't disappoint."

Rex sipped his third glass of tea, as he wondered what he should talk to Gavin about. He wondered what he should call him. Gavin? Gavin? Maybe, dad...? He sighed sharply, unsure of how to address him. He knew it'd be a change he'd have to adjust to, since he'd never called anyone dad.

"Rex?" Gavin said.

Rex looked up at him and quickly smiled, "Yes? I'm sorry..." he laughed, " I was zoning out. If you don't mind, may I be excused? I think that tea ran right though me." he said, placing his napkin on top of table.

"Oh, sure... The bathroom is on the left side of the hall. Second door at the end." he said.

He popped up out of his chair and hurried to the bathroom. He locked the door behind him, and braced himself against the pedal stool sink. He couldn't believe he was really here. He couldn't believe he'd been reunited with a family who actually wanted him. Who loved him. They were nothing like he'd ever imagined. They were better than anything his mind could ever fabricate. So why was he so terrified that he'd say or do something stupid to make them not want him? He knew he would have people to help him out if he stumbled, but he didn't want to wreck something that hadn't even had a chance to begin.

As he paced around the small bathroom the sound of the knob being fiddled with, caught his attention. He cocked his head to the side as he stared at it curiously.

His curiosity was slowly being stroked as the door swung opened. Leo was kneeled down in front of it, with a cheesy grin. Rex just stared at him, unable to even chastise him like he loved to do. Leo walked in, and locked the door. He took a seat on the tub, and waited for him to speak.

"What the hell are you doing? What if I'd actually been doing something in here?"

"You mean aside from trying to hide?" Leo said, looking at him with a straight faced expression. His arms crossed over his chest, like a parent ready to give the lecture of a lifetime.

"Hide?" he scoffed, "Don't be absurd! I had to go to the bathroom. Besides, what would I need to hide for, pray tell?"

"Eh, babe, I know you too well already. You're trying not to over think or overreact to your new environment. But everything's not a math problem, Uni. I can make it into one if you want me to though? You've got a mother who adores your ass, a twin who actually wants to be related to you, and a dad who seems cool as fuck!"

"I'm aware of all of that... I just... What do I say to him? What if he ends up not wanting me? I've never had a man to call my father...or at least, not one who actually wants to be my dad. And Ro is really amazing. I feel a connection with her too. Karsyn is amazing as well. I just don't want to screw this up, Leo. I--I--"

he stammered out nervously, before Leo shot up. He grabbed him by his face and buried them in a deep kiss. Rex's rapid breathing fell back to a normal pace, his heart picking up where his breathing had left off. Leo hooked his fingers around his pants belt loops and pushed him back up against the door. Rex bit at his lip between kisses, before eagerly let his tongue invade his mouth. As they kissed, Leo's hand start to travel between his thighs. He let out a moan, feeling a wave of desire wash over him. He parted his legs, giving him access.

"L-Leo..." he managed to get out through a deep breath, "What are you doing to me?" he asked, letting the door hold him up as his legs began to buckle underneath him, "We're in someone's house. I mean," he moaned, his breathing deep and sharp, "my father's house."

"I'm aware of where it is we are. But you need to loosen up. And usually, this is a quick way to do just that. Just relax." he said, nipping at his neck, as his fingers made their way to his zipper. He slid it down and slipped his hand into his underwear, feeling he was already wet. How Rex hated his body for always betraying him. It sang like a canary every time Leo came near it. Signifying how much he always wanted him. Though he was nervous as hell that they would get caught, he allowed Leo to do as he pleased. 'Cause hell, he definitely didn't want to lose the way his fingers felt inside of him at the moment. Leo shoved his finger in and out of him, alternating between slow and fast. With each thrust, his fingers glazed with sweet nectar. Rex gripped at his arm a few times, pretending to play hard to get. But there was no play fighting against this. Leo grabbed both of his arms and pinned them against the door, a cocky smirk danced over his lips, as he continued finger banging him. Rex bit his pale lips to keep from screaming out in pleasure. His body bucked and jerked wildly, as he took rough gasps of air. Rex wasn't ready to go back for dessert when he was busy having his sweet tart, devoured. Not that Leo was going to give up the best treat he could ever ask for. Three fingers deep, Leo slowly flicked his thumb over the swollen bud of flesh that was eager to be played with. It deserved attention too. And attention he'd give it. Rubbing his thumb back and forth over it, he practically had Rex crying. He knew he was closed to coming, and he knew he'd be a lot more relaxed once he came.

"Le--Leooo...." he moaned, grinding his peach on his fingers, in slow circles to control himself from coming too soon. He rested his head against his chest, and bit as his shirt. As his twat continued swallowing his fingers, a knock came from the door. Rex bit Leo's shirt tighter, to keep the loud moan suppressed.

"Rex, are you alright?" he heard, Rowan ask.

Releasing his shirt momentarily, he answered, in the most collected voice he could manage, "Ye-yeah.. I'm okay. Thank you. I'll be out in a minute." he said, as Leo pulled him into a tantalizing kiss.

"Okay." she said, walking back to the dining room.

Finally unable to fight back the urge, he felt his body tense up before it flooded with endorphins.

"Leo... You stupid lion." he moaned out through his teeth, "What have you done to me?" he asked.

"You keep saying my name like that, I'll never stop. Give in to me, Rex. Trust me, once you've released some stress, you'll be more opened to what I have to say."

"Idiot..." he whimpered out, as he melted into him.

Placing him on the edge of the tub, Leo washed his hands and searched for some lotion to moisturize them. Rex caught his breath with a deep inhale.

"You're wretched!" he said, in an uneven tone, "You soiled me!!! How am I supposed to keep myself composed like this? You got me off in my father's home." he said, flushing a bright pink. He zipped his pants up wondering how he was going to control himself from wanting more, "Dummy! Why did I let you do that!?" he asked, half yelling as he hit him in his chest with his balled up fist.

"Hey now, chillax, darlin'!... I'm still healing! You're going to burst my stitches." he laughed, grabbing his hands before he could land anymore blows.

"Sorry..." he muttered, still feeling a bit horny. But he was too fired up, to admit that.

"Hmmm, usually this would calm someone down... I must've done it wrong..."

he laughed, "Anyway, you need to quiet down 'fore you get us caught. As I was saying earlier, your family isn't gonna abandon you if you fuck up and say somethin' stupid. That's not how real families operate." he said, resting his hand against his cheek.

Rex stared at him for a minute, before he snatched his hands away from him. He lightly slapped him in his chest again, "Yeah, I know... I just... You don't know how nervous I am. Well, you might know... but I still can't believe this is really happening. That my parents really exist and that they really want me in their lives."

"You have no choice but to accept it. They've got this banner of love hung up for you. Let them in. They love you. Hell, your dad just gave me the third-degree. He clearly loves you. He's a cool dude. We had a real heart to heart. So, if you don't want him to be your dad, pass him to me. I'd kill to have a father like him. Trust the poster child for bad parents, I know you have no need to be guarded. I can tell they won't disappoint you."

Rex stared into his eyes thinking that, Leo had a point. He felt a guilt drape over him. He knew he would've given anything for his parents to treat him better, and here he was with parents who'd rip the stars, moon and any other planet from the sky if that'd make him happy. The were excepting and open and they both knew who he was and let him be as he was.

"I'm sorry, Leo. I'm being selfish." he said, looking down with a somber expression.

"I know you're nervous to let new people in, but you gotta let them push pass those borders of yours, Uni. Now come with me, before all of the dessert gets eaten." Leo said, heading for the door. Rex grabbed his arm and pulled him back, "Uni?" he asked, looking back over his shoulder *curiously.

"Mmm... I need you to do me a favor."

"You want another round?" he asked, a sly smile pulling at his lips.

"Yeah, no though... I need you to go to Rowan's room and see if she has a pair of underwear I can have..."

"What if I get caught? How will I explain my reason for being in there?"

"You're smart. I'm certain you'll think of something... Besides, you shouldn't have did what you did to me in the first place. At least, not here... Anyway, just go."

Leo sighed, and peeked out the door, to make sure he had the all clear. Seeing he did, he dashed down the hall to Rowan's room and searched her drawers as quietly as he could. He found a pair of lacy black and white panties and stuffed them into his pocket. Closing the drawer he looked up at a small creature in front of him. Putting his hand up, the little long animal sniffed his hand before leaping down to the floor uninterested in him. Leo scooped him up and dashed back into the bathroom, where Rex was waiting patiently.

"Ok, you so owe me." he said, slipping the underwear from his pocket, "Aren't these cute?" he said, with a snorted laugh. Feeling proud of himself for picking the frilliest pair he could locate.

"Rex snatched them from him, and looked at him and the underwear with a deep sigh, "There was nothing else? You did this on purpose. I just know--" he started to say, as he noticed a small furry animal cradled in his arms, "What is that?"

"Huh? Oh, it was in Rowan's room just wandering around. It's a fennec fox. Doesn't it look like a kitty? Sort of? If you squint?..." he said, holding it out to him.

"You and your rat get out!" Rex said, arching his lip in disgust...

"It's not a rat! I'll have you know smart guy... It's not even in the rodent family."

"Yes, I know that! But it surely isn't anything like a cat. The only thing they have in common is that they're both carnivores. The end. But, I don't even care about that right now. Both of you get out!! I need to clean up and get my mind off of this little romp we just had. I smell like sex, and I need to figure out how to cover it up...Ugh!" he said, watching Leo snuggle with the little fox, "Leo!"

"Huh? What?" he asked, coming out of his animal haze, "I've seen you naked before, why can't I stay?"

"Leo..." he shot out through his clenched teeth.

"I'm going... I'm going..." he mumbled, slipping out the door, "And may I suggest a hoe bath?"

Rex shot him a look, "Are you implying I'm a hoe?"

"Nah... I'm just sayin' that's how you could clean up." he said, shrugging his shoulder with a laugh.

"You're upsetting me." Rex said, covering his face with his hand, "I'll figure out something... Just... just leave..." he said, fanning him out of the bathroom.

*******

Getting cleaned up, Rex made his way back to the dining room. He let out a breath and took his seat.

"Hey Poppet, are you still in the mood for cake?" Gavin asked, sliding a slice of triple layer marble cake over to him.

"Oh, yes... I'm a major sweet freak... Thank you" he said, taking in each layer, which was thickly laced with chocolate butter cream between each layer, which only added to its sweetness, "This is the best cake I've tasted in a while. Wow!"

"Thank you. This is actually your mom's recipe. She taught me everything I know. If not for her, we'd be having canned soup and stale soda crackers." he laughed.

"You don't say?" Rex said, taking another bite, "I was thinking, maybe after dessert, you and I can have that almost-four-second one on one chat..." he said, with a warmish smile. Still trying to thaw out his nervousness... Rowan giggled from the other side of the table, at him reusing her words.

"Yes! Of course! We can go now, if you want!!" Gavin said, feeling a spark of joy shoot through him. He couldn't hide how happy he was that Rex wanted to talk to him. He was eager to get to know the young man he'd become.

A/N

Okay, let me know what you guys think.... Email/comment.... I'm so excited to be continuing with Pt.2 of CF. Also, for those who may not know, Chemical Flirtation is now available for purchase on Amazon.com. If you've read it already, I would love it if you would leave a review and a rating... No purchase necessary, unless you want to of course. Lol! Thank you to all who followed the story and to those who are just joining the journey. 

Kiss-Kiss, Meow and Ciao, for now. ❥『THOM KATZ』