Moving on
Daniel awoke from a restless sleep. His hair was a mess - thankfully, he kept it rather short, requiring little maintenance. He glanced at his phone. The alarm had not rung yet. Oh well. No harm in getting up sooner.
He strode over to the bathroom, clad only in his pajamas, to properly clean up. He had to look presentable. As the sun wasn't even visible yet, he had to rely on the artificial light of the bathroom proper. In the old house that would've been a lot harder, but dad truly spared no cost when furnishing their new place. The bulbs shone like little nuclear reactors - one could see every pore, even those that should rather remain unseen. In comparison, the bathroom downstairs had... lackluster equipment. Sure, everything down there worked, but that was it - the bare minimum.
No matter how mean Lucian might have been to him, no matter how much Daniel disagreed with what he and dad had... he could not bring himself to hate him. He was his brother... they had such nice memories together. So why did it have to be this way? Why could they all not just get along? His mates all had somewhat functional families - even if they weren't too close, at least they didn't actively hurt each other, as far as he knew.
But that didn't matter now. He had to get ready. His dad would be up soon and would want to use the bathroom too, so ideally he should be done by then. He grabbed the toothbrush and began his routine - as meticulously and diligently as always. He was quite proud of his self-grooming skills. Not once had dad issued a complaint.
Temporarily vacating the bathroom, he went to his bedroom again and prepared some clothes to change into, as well as a pile of towels. He brought them over to the other room, getting the shower ready. Dumping his old clothes into the hamper, he stepped into the glassen interior.
The steady pounding of hot water resonated against his skin. A very pleasant feeling. Despite the summer temperatures, nothing could beat a nice warming shower. He applied some shower gel and then shampoo, setting the bottles back to their original positions - right next to his dad's...
Now that he thought about it... every single thing of his in this bathroom was next to dad's. Their towels, their toothbrushes, their pill containers - all neighbors. The same could really be said about most things in the house. Their favorite mugs, their shoes in the shoe rack, their jackets, everything. Even on photos they were usually next to one another - Daniel acting like a buffer between his brothers and dad. Then... why did he feel so distant all of a sudden? How did Lucian get so close to Bruno when Daniel had been trying all his life? Lucian had no possessions of his anywhere in the house except for his room and bathroom. Lucian never used to spend time with Bruno. Lucian had no photos where it was just him and dad. So then how could he so easily ingrain himself into dad's life? And why did it feel like Daniel was being uprooted as collateral?
He could try and ask dad for more information. They would be spending some time alone together... just the two of them. At least he hoped it would be just them two. As much as he loved his brother, he would have preferred some one-on-one bonding. And a nice conversation to go with it.
Exiting the shower, he changed into his outfit for their outing and cleaned up. Afterwards, it was breakfast time. Something simple and light, as to not provoke the stomach too much. Indigestion would be unfortunate. He opted for a simple fruit salad. He could fill in the remaining nutrients later. But looking at the clock, he was a bit worried. Sure, dad was a very early bird, which meant that they could probably spare a few minutes if not hours and not miss much. But normally, dad also stuck to the schedule he created. This time around, there was not a peep of any other soul in the house.
Daniel felt torn. As much as he wanted to go and check, maybe even wake his father - he had doubts. What if Bruno was awake... with company? What if they were going at it and he'd catch them in the act? Images of their contorted bodies flashed through his head as unease and nausea filled him again. But they wouldn't be this bold, right? Not when they knew Bruno had somewhere to be... Or was he okay with getting tardy as long as it meant getting off? No, dad was not that type of person... He wasn't... Right?
Throughout the house, a cacophony of slams. Doors opening and closing, heavy footsteps - then a shout.
"Danny! Get ready! I overslept, we have to go!" dad screamed.
That volume would rouse even the dead. His dad's voice was very resonant and deep - carrying with it an air of authority and assertiveness. It had always made him feel slightly weak and intimidated, but also oddly safe. As if one yell from Bruno could scare away every bad actor. His father was knocking on his bedroom door, unknowing that Daniel was already fully prepared.
"I'm ready, dad! Been waiting for you!" Daniel yelled back from downstairs.
"Good! Get to the car, we're going!"
Yeah, dad was rushing. Daniel quickly packed a few protein bars from the pantry into the pockets of his cargo shorts. He also grabbed a pair of water bottles and made his way to the garage. He saw his dad descend down the stairs. That's when he realized that they were wearing very similar outfits. He had picked his without really thinking about it - just throwing what seemed fitting for the occasion and weather. Yet unknowingly, he matched. Their khaki cargo shorts were literally the same, except for the size. They both wore tank-tops, except while Daniel's was snow white, Bruno's was coal black. In addition, Bruno also sported a camo cap on his head. The only real different was their shoes. Daniel's dark green sneakers clashed with Bruno's black combat boots.
"Looking great as always, bud." Bruno said with a laugh, passing by Daniel on the way to the garage.
Daniel followed, getting into his dad's jeep, parked right next to his own car. He sat on the passenger's seat and quickly fastened his belt - dad already starting the ignition.
"How much do we need to rush?" Daniel asked.
"Not much at all, really. Nobody will be there today. But every second spent on nothing is one more second wasted not being with you. And I need a fix of my boy." Bruno said, opening the garage doors remotely.
Not a single second wasted was accurate, as the vehicle set off at break-neck speed immediately. They were on the hot asphalt like two road pirates. Then Bruno's stomach gurgled.
"Sorry, Danny. I rushed out way too fast. Didn't have the chance to eat. Or shower... I barely managed to brush my teeth. Pardon the smell." Bruno said apologetically.
Daniel didn't answer right away, instead he pulled out a protein bar from his pocket, reaching out towards Bruno.
"Don't worry, I figured. That's why I brought these. Let me know when you'll want to eat 'em."
"My savior." Bruno said, smile reaching his eyes.
"Oh please... This is the bare minimum."
"Yeah, yeah. Humble as always - it's cute. Would you mind feeding me, champ? I don't wanna go without food much longer." Bruno said with another timely gurgle.
"Sure!" Daniel perked up.
This was nothing new. Daniel lost count of how many times he had fed his dad in the car like this. After all, he was the one usually sitting shotgun, so it only made sense. And it's not as if holding out food with a hand was particularly difficult. So he did what he had done so many times before and opened one of the snacks. He held the bar out to Bruno.
Dad immediately lowered his head and took a big bite. A few crumbles fell, but they were easily intercepted by Daniel's other hand. He was happy to be with his dad like this - their time was always so joyful and simple. He could truly get a good look at him from this angle too. His slight sunburn around the shoulders. A few pimples. Those lips that needed a good chapping. The way his mouth opened so wide... so decisive and hungry as he dove for the bar... how his dry lips clamped over it and firmly pulled away, dragging a bit of his saliva over the chocolate coating... what? What was Daniel thinking about?
Why was Daniel thinking about this? He... he just imagined his dad sucking a penis instead of the snack... Why? He didn't want to think about this. This wasn't right. It felt... disrespectful. Rude. Revolting... But what if Bruno really had given out blowjobs before? Before mom was around, he could've fooled around... or he could've blown Lucian. But that'd be like submitting, right? Dad wouldn't do that... not to Lucian out of all people... But he did fuck with Lucian... So what if?
Daniel frowned, all the previous joy sucked out of him. He hated the image forming in his mind. His dad's lips moving around Lucian's member... it felt so wrong! And... and unjust!
"Daniel? You good? The bar's gone already." Bruno tore him out of his trance.
Oh, right. Daniel was holding an empty wrapper in his hand. He flushed a bit - both because of the action and because of the reason behind it. The wrapper was quickly tucked away into another pocket - for later disposal. He straightened his back and cleared his throat a bit.
"Yeah, uh, sorry. Just got a bit lost in thought there." Daniel excused himself.
"I dunno, champ... You've been a bit out of it lately. The past few days you've been... weird? A bit tired. A bit gloomy. Everything alright? You know you can trust me, right? I'll help in any way I can." Bruno said reassuringly.
He knew this voice. This was dad's warm voice. The one he had used after Daniel had come home from a loss in football. Or when he had been bullied back in middle school. Granted, the bullying had only lasted a day. When he had told Bruno about it, his dad comforted him, but took it into his own hands. The other kid, in tears, apologize the day after. Apparently, the bully's dad had to use a wheelchair for a month after Bruno paid their house a visit.
This warm tone was therefore an indicator of concern. Good. Bruno still cared about him. That made Daniel smile a bit.
"I'm all good, dad. Thanks for asking though... I appreciate you." Daniel said quietly.
"I appreciate you too, champ. More than you know."
After that, both of the men got quiet. A good quiet. One where they simply enjoyed each other's presence. The sun shined onto their faces, warming them up. But the AC prevented any real discomfort from the heat. It was a nice feeling to finally be able to relax...
This silence continued on for a few more minutes before dad broke it.
"We're here! You ready for this?" he asked excitedly.
"Sure." Daniel replied with a flatter voice.
They got out of the jeep, standing in front of a closed-looking shooting range. There was no one around, which was natural given the time of day, but also no employee in sight.
"Dad, are you sure they're open?"
"Of course they're not. I said there would be no one here, right? But we have the keys!"
Dad fished around in his pocket before pulling out his key-ring. There was indeed one more key than usual. He pressed it into the closed lock and voila - the door opened.
"How did you get the keys for this place?" Daniel asked, a bit stunned.
"What else are connections for? A little favor goes a big way, boy." Bruno laughed, pocketing the key again.
Without wasting a single second, dad walked in like he owned the place. He quickly disappeared into the staff area, coming back with a haul of various items: safety goggles, ear protection, a pair of handguns, some ammo and targets. With complete ease and confidence he started slowly prepping himself.
"What are you waiting for? I'm not letting you shoot without this." Bruno gestured towards the protective gear.
Daniel obliged and started following in his dad's footsteps. Soon, they found themselves in neighboring lanes. The young man was a bit hesitant. It's been a while since last time.
"Uh, dad? Could you show me how to do this again?"
"Right away, sport." Bruno said, putting down his own firearm.
With strong hands, dad stood behind Daniel, showing him the proper way to aim, reload, shoot and generally be safe around a gun. Daniel had a hard time focusing as he felt Bruno press up from behind, bulky arms framing his body. This was nothing unusual - the position was not sexual in any capacity. But something was off to Daniel. The simple fact of Lucian's illicit affairs with his father spoiled this moment. He could not help but imagine Bruno pressing up to his brother like this. The idea was revolting. Just like the fantasies he had in the car. Why could he not go back to normal?
Barely paying attention to the tutelage, Daniel stood there with the gun pointed directly at the target. He fired all the ammunition in the weapon. Checking the target afterwards revealed that he had quite a good aim. No shots missed and most of them were in the above average points section. A decent clap came from the side.
"Impressive! Let's see if I can beat you." Bruno said smiling.
He aimed his own gun and with unprecedented speed unloaded everything it had. The target spoke clearly. Every single hole was either perfect or near-perfect points.
"You still got a ways to go, champ. But if we come here more often, I'm sure you'll get really good at it too." Bruno said, putting down the gun.
It was impressive, really. Daniel wasn't really sure he had ever seen his dad be truly bad at something. Sure, father was not excellent at everything he touched, but at least somewhat competent. Then again, most of the things he saw dad do were either sporty or otherwise physical. He had never seen him pursue anything artistic for that matter. Yet that was not important. Reminiscing of dad's physical abilities reminded him of the more pressing issues going on at home. Hopefully only at home.
"Dad? Say, can I ask you something? It's... it's a bit out of the blue." Daniel started hesitantly.
"Sure! What's up?" Bruno said, putting down the protection around his ears.
"Well, I was just wondering a bit lately... and I wondered if... you know, if you hypothetically..." Daniel struggled to formulate the correct question.
"Yes, yes, wondered hypothetically. Cut the charades, Danny. You know you don't have to speak so roundaboutly with me! Ask and I'll answer." dad put a reassuring hand on his shoulder.
"Well... I was just wondering if you ever got a bit lonely? I mean, I only visit for the summer and holidays, so you're all alone otherwise." Daniel started with a plainer question.
"Hmmm, not really. I mean, the house does feel a bit empty at times, but we call often enough for me to get my fix of you. And my colleagues and mates are certainly company enough." dad answered, crossing his legs as he leaned on a nearby wall.
"Right, but I was asking more about... you know, like... ladies? I thought you'd maybe want to date again? Maybe eventually remarry? Maybe you have someone already?" Daniel was pushing it into dangerous waters, he knew.
"...no. Suffice to say, I've been disillusioned when it comes to marriage and dating, Danny. No matter how hard you try, how hard you break your back to provide and be a present father and be a loving husband, no matter how much time and money you spend, no matter how many years you are around each other - you can still find out that the woman you loved is a lying, conniving, backstabbing, SCUMMY, CHEATING, BOTTOM-OF-THE-BARREL, GOOD-FOR-NOTHING BITCH." Bruno said, his voice rising as it eventually reached a guttural yell.
Dad was huffing. His chest was rising and falling rapidly as he seemed to be fully immersed in a searing anger. Daniel knew this was a possible outcome. Mentioning mom by name would be a death sentence, but even alluding to marriage or other things of the sort was dangerous.
"I'm sorry, dad. Didn't mean to upset you." Daniel said sheepishly.
"It's... it's fine. It's not your fault. After all, your unfortunate mother was the one who could only think with her vagina. But to answer your question, Danny - no, there is no one I'm dating... and I don't think there's many people out there I'd be interested in either way." Bruno said with a sad look in his eyes.
Was he alluding to someone? If he used 'many people', then that meant there was potentially someone out there he was interested in. Oh no, what if that was Lucian? No no, dad would not go to such a length. He would not start a relationship with Lucian. Nuh uh.
"Champ, any other questions? If so, lemme hear 'em. Or better yet, challenge me for them." Bruno tore his son out of his thoughts.
"What do you mean?" Daniel asked, confused.
"Simple. Five bullets each. Who gets more points wins and gets to ask a question. Honest answers only, of course. And yes, answering is mandatory." Bruno smiled as he quickly went to exchange the targets for clean ones.
"Dad! You've obviously got the advantage! Look at our skill levels!" Daniel gestured to the old targets.
"Yeah yeah, I hear you, you little scaredy cat! Fine, I'll give myself a handicap. Happy?" dad said as he returned.
"Sure..." Daniel resigned.
He did as he was told. He loaded five bullets and unloaded them onto the target. Decent. But not good enough for his father. Yet to his surprise, the handicap was quite severe. Bruno stood with his back facing the target as he aimed the gun behind himself. Five shots rang through the range as he missed nearly all of them. Looking back, he laughed.
"Damn. Guess you win this time. Ask away." he smiled knowingly.
There was something very fishy about this. Sure, he had a handicap, but the way his hand moved? Way too sloppy. Daniel was pretty sure dad did not lose by accident.
"Well, okay... If anything goes, then..." Daniel hesitated.
As much as he wanted to ask about him and Lucian... he couldn't. It's as if he was afraid the moment he'd ask, it'd materialize. It'd become a reality he could not deny anymore. But he already did know it was real, so why the fear? What exactly was he afraid of? What made him feel so uncomfortable about asking? He couldn't... he simply couldn't ask...
"Well, let me ask this! What do you like about me most?" he settled for a basic, safe question.
"Damn, didn't expect that kind of question. Though the answer is easy. Your loyalty." Bruno nodded his head.
"Oh, uh, yeah. Thanks." Daniel said, not expecting such a quick and simple answer.
"What? Not satisfied? Okay, let me elaborate. I like how I know I can tell you anything and you'll keep it a secret. I like how you are always honest with me, even when it isn't easy. I like how no matter what you'd have to choose between, you'd choose me... And you can expect the same from me, Danny."
Daniel got even more stumped. It was a very Bruno answer. But it did make him smile a bit. Like he was truly appreciated. Like hid dad still loved him... Though the honesty bit got him. Did his dad not lie when he had said he didn't have anyone? Or, well, maybe Lucian didn't count as dating... Then again, Daniel wasn't exactly honest with his father at this point either. He was hiding a giant sexual elephant in the room.
"Okay, let's go for another round, shall we?" Bruno said excitedly, preparing again.
The result was much the same, Bruno's shots even sloppier.
"Look at you, champ. You get to ask another question." Bruno smiled.
Dad was definitely letting him win. But for what reason? Honestly, why not ask?
"Why are you firing poorly on purpose?" Daniel asked directly.
"See! This is the honesty I'm talking about. And you're quick, too! Most people I've challenged like this didn't notice I was being incompetent on purpose. Can make you a pretty penny if you know how to bet properly and when to drop the act. But to answer your question - you seemed like you had a lot you wanted to ask, and I didn't want you to feel like you were interrogating me. So I made it into a game." Bruno said with a shrug.
Huh... Daniel had not expected that. Then again, it was something very Bruno to do. While he was a man of principle, he was not a stranger to tricks.
"Anyway, last challenge round? Then we can go at it normally again." dad winked.
And what a last round it was. After Daniel agreed and shot his shots, Bruno decided to fire properly and hit the second highest point area with all of his tries, while aiming backwards! A dangerously skilled man.
"Well, I guess that means I get to ask a question now, hmm? Then answer me this, my boy. What is bothering you lately?" Bruno turned serious.
"Huh? What do you mean?" Daniel feigned innocence.
"Don't play dumb, Danny. I know you evaded the question in the car. So, please, tell me now. What is bothering you? Or is it a 'who'? If you tell me, I'm sure I can get rid of the problem for you. Okay?" Bruno's voice became pleading.
"I... Okay... It's just... I can't say it outright... I'm too... scared... Not because anyone is making me scared, mind you! I... I just don't want to talk about it much, because it bothers me. But I feel like I might lose someone close to me. He's... a very good friend. And it's like he's morphing into someone different. And I fear I won't be able to be close with him afterwards. I fear he'll change so much we won't fit together anymore. And I'd hate that. It'd be a big, big problem." Daniel said.
While he didn't lie, he chose the most vague way to go about it. He still didn't have the balls to tell Bruno directly. Lucian? Yes. His dad? No chance. His father was pensive for a while, eyes to the ground, as if deep in thought.
"I see... It's okay if you don't want to talk about it now, but when you do, you come get me, got that? In the meantime, just know that whoever it is, they'd be missing out on an amazing young man. They don't know what they're walking away from." Bruno finally broke the silence
"Yeah... thanks..."
"Anyways, champ. Sorry for bringing the mood down. But let's enjoy the rest of our time here, yeah?"
And so they did. For hours they simply shot at targets over and over again. Eventually even switching weapons or trying various scoring methods. Daniel relaxed quite a bit after that tense atmosphere. Drinking the water he had brought along, eating his pocket snacks, just... enjoying their time. Soon, it was time to go as the sun started setting.
"Thanks for today, dad. I'll go pee real quick and then I'll come help you with clean-up." Daniel said as he made his way to the toilets.
His father simply nodded and started properly packing up. The scent of stale toilet water immediately hit Daniel's nose as he entered the bathroom. It was certainly a public bathroom, alright. Even thought the range itself was nice, this specific facility was nothing to write home about. Then Daniel looked into a mirror above one of the sinks.
He saw his face. Sweaty from the day, smile still plastered on his lips despite the nasty olfactory assault. He had had a really good time today. Whenever it was just Bruno and Daniel, it was always so nice. There were no fights. Almost no anger. Just a peaceful silence or joyous laughter.
The young man moved over the the urinals and unzipped, starting his stream with a pleased exhale. The door to the restroom opened as his dad strode in.
"All cleaned up! Took a lot less time than I expected. Damn, I need to piss too." Bruno said as he took the urinal next to his.
There were plenty of urinals available, yet dad chose the one next to Daniel? More importantly, how long did he look into that mirror for dad to already be done? But the most pressing issue on his mind - why did he want to look over so badly?
Just one shift of his eyes and he could catch a glimpse of his dad's package. A sort of morbid curiosity arose in him - what did Lucian take every day? What did it look like? Was it big? Was it curved? Why did he even want to see it in the first place? He was being the weird one now. He had been acting strange all day. Why could he just not let it go? Or at least do something about it? But no, Daniel just avoided the actual matter... He wanted to avoid it...
They both zipped back up - Daniel notably deflated. Bruno did give him a concerned look, but said nothing. A quick check of the building, key in the lock, jeep doors slamming shut... The ride home was silent. Daniel hated that the day ended with these ideas in his mind, but he just couldn't help himself... Maybe he was disturbed too...
Fucking hell. What was all the yelling about? Lucian was barely awake to even register whose voice it was. Were it not for the bone-rattling bass which he was all-too familiar with, he would not recognize it was Bruno. The sun wasn't even out properly so why were they screaming? Ugh, right, they had their little get away today. Dicks of a feather flock together. Lucian turned around and went back to sleep.
A few hours later, Lucian arose once more. This time around, a lot more naturally and a lot more pleased. The first thing on his mind was the joyous absence of the two tumors of the house. He wouldn't have to worry about anything for the next couple of hours. A short-lived, but very much appreciated paradise.
But this was no time to lay around and relax. He had work to do. He had to figure out a way to get into the monster's lair and replace the camera's battery. Thankfully, he had spares laying around in his bag somewhere - he was prepared for this scenario. It was a bit weird how fast the juice had run out, considering what the product page said, but figures that everyone lies nowadays. Be it online vendors or his own 'dad'. Lucian remembered how they used to go to trips together, all of them. Bruno, mom, the bros and him. The lying ogre would always say how much he loved them all. So many days spent ruffling hair, roughhousing and hugging. All just a big lie.
Too bad Daniel couldn't see through Bruno's lies. Granted, Lucian himself didn't understand why the brute was being nice to his biological son, but the young man didn't need to understand. He just knew that it'd end sooner, rather than later. Maybe once Bruno finally got his dick wet in Daniel's asshole, he'd lose interest. Eh, a worry for another day and another person. That little shit had it coming to him.
He opened the door into the rest of the house, sticking his head out first as he was used to doing. As expected, he was alone. The air for once didn't smell like his brother's cooking or his tormentor's sweat.
Making his way over to the locked door, he started thinking - thinking hard about his next move. What could he do? He could try and come from the windows - climb the house somehow. But the neighbors would definitely see that and probably call someone. If they called Bruno, Lucian was fucked. So he continued thinking. He could always try to pick the lock. Did he have any clue how? No. But the internet had the answer to everything nowadays.
Going back into his room, he opened the portable computer up. That little piece of junk was getting slower and slower by the day. He couldn't afford a new one though. Oh well, he'd have to endure. Once this was all over he could focus on a career. He'd have so much money... probably tons of hot chicks and dudes hanging from his arms. Fuck, he couldn't wait.
Watching tutorials for about an hour, he decided he knew enough. Taking a paper clip from his stuff, he quickly bent it into a more usable shape for his criminal plan. With newfound hope, he strode over to Bruno's bedroom door again. If he could pick the lock and then use the same paperclip to lock it again, he was good to go. Was it going to be easy? Probably not. But Lucian was not only desperate, but also confident in his skills.
The tip got slowly inserted into the waiting orifice. Slow... precise... He could do this. He turned the paperclip slightly as he tried to reposition himself. It didn't work at all. He toyed around with the little thing, fiddling and tinkering. Nothing. He couldn't do it. A loud 'FUCK' resonated through the empty hallway as he slammed down onto the handle.
It yielded and opened the door immediately... Was the door unlocked today? Did Bruno forget to lock it? Of course! That must've been the yelling from the morning. Maybe he lost the key and couldn't find it in time, or maybe he just forgot. He seemed rushed. But who cared? Lucian was just happy to have access. Finally.
First thing that he noticed? The smell. It reeked like a garbage can in there. Musky, sweaty and way too spicy. Eugh, it was even worse than the time he came in here to install the camera. Speaking of cameras, he looked at the spot he planted it in. It was still there. Safe, sound and hidden. Just dead.
Not wasting a single second, he opened the minuscule cover and replaced the batteries within. Nasty little things - running out this fast. Oh well, too late for a refund anyways. He properly closed the little device and turned it on. Hopefully it would work.
As much as he wanted to go test it out immediately, he was tempted... Nobody was home... So what prevented him from snooping around a bit? Nothing. In the blink of an eye he was fully in the room, surviving the awful stench as he went for the wardrobe first. Opening it, he found clothes. And only clothes. Sad, but expected.
Thankfully, he was not done. He checked under the bed - just a pair of weights, trashcan, nothing special. Yeah, same as before. There really was not much in there. As much as he hated to admit it, he felt kind of bad for Bruno. How sad of an existence must he be to have no personality seep from his own living quarters?
The only interesting untouched part of the room was the desk. It had a few drawers, some writing utensils on it along with a notebook of some sort. That was it. Completely boring. Oh well, a peek into whatever the writing was could maybe help. He opened to the first page.
-
Some of my mates told me that writing down what you're feeling is supposed to help in dealing with tough situations. I'm not sure it will. I honestly feel... nothing. I know what just happened. I know all I lived through was a lie. I know that the woman I love turned out to be a simple hussy. But it's like I still don't realize it. Like it hasn't hit me fully. We will see after the divorce. Maybe I'll actually feel something.
-
Huh? What was this? There was nothing else on the page. That was it. It seemed like a diary entry of sorts, but no date or anything. Was this Bruno's? It had to be, why else would it be here? The image of the giant brute keeping a journal was a bit funny to Lucian, but it quickly got drowned out by the sheer awe he felt. This could actually be a gold mine... That entry... It had to be about mom, right? Before they split, but after dad... after Bruno found out Lucian isn't his. He turned the page.
-
That piece of trash. I wish her nothing but the worst. May she live the rest of her life in agony. I loved her. I trusted her. And what did she do? She let some random street trash pound a baby into her. Like a good-for-nothing whore. And not just one, but three! And then she expects me to take care of them, like some cuck. And the worst part is, I did. I loved those children as if they were mine. Hell, I believed they were. The feelings did indeed come after the divorce was done. Or rather, after she decided to just disappear on me. What am I supposed to do with these dead weights now? I need to get a new bed too. I got a tad angry and stomped through every one of the planks in the frame. Not like I wanted to keep the bed on which I slept with her. The new holes in the walls need fixing as well. My knuckles are slightly bloody, but it's okay. I feel a lot calmer now that I got it out of my system. The little shits cry for her. They don't know she abandoned them just like she abandoned me. This is the thanks I get for being a good husband. She cheats on me. And the kids? I try to be nice to them, to make proper men out of them. And they want their mother's warmth, even after she turned out to be a bitch. Clearly, her vile blood dominates in them. Not an ounce of me in any one of them. But oh, they'll learn. They will learn that life is not rosy.
-
Father of the year material right there. Lucian felt his blood boil with each word that hit his eyes. He did remember Bruno's bedroom being quite demolished after the divorce. That explained it. So that was his big reason for becoming the way he is? No, there had to be more. Lucian refused to believe Bruno truly wrote down everything he felt. Probably wanted to protect his hide in case these pieces of paper ever got into the wrong hands. Lucian would've loved to use this against him. Maybe he still could, honestly. He pulled out his phone and photographed the previous and this page. Then, he went to the next entry. This one was written in a different pen. The handwriting seemed different too. Maybe some time passed?
-
I'm writing in here again, because I feel conflicted. I don't understand that little shit. His brothers are exactly the disappointments I expected them to be, but he is persistent. He tries not to cry whenever I punish him, saving it for his bed. He also tries to do a lot around the house. Can't really do much competently, but he learns quickly. That little brat has some serious guts to not shit himself at the sight of me, honestly. It's almost like he still saw me as his dad. No matter how many times I explain it to him and punish him for it, he keeps calling me pa. It would be cute if it weren't so sad. But honestly, maybe the kid feels something I don't. For a snotty little shit, he certainly seems like he has potential. Sometimes, I even feel bad for putting him through some tough shit. He makes it hard to hate him. I have a suspicion, and this time I'm going to go after it immediately.
-
Lucian knew exactly what this was about and felt no need to think about it any longer than necessary. He'd just get sad again... He snapped a picture and read on. This page seemed to have a few dried splotches on it.
-
I actually did it. That slut tried to saddle me with three bastards, but I did it. I actually have a child. My child. My son. My Danny. I should've known when he showed courage unlike the two other failures. He has my strong blood in him that one. So all that time spent on him was not for nothing. At least one piece of good news. It only makes sense. I can see myself in him, while I only see the features of that cursed witch in the other two. How could I have been so blind. I'm crying as I write this and I haven't cried in years. My son never abandoned me. He actively tried to show me that he really is mine. I could not ask for a better boy. I made a promise with him today. I promised as my name is Bruno Greene and let it be written down here for all eternity: 'I promise, I will always do my best to keep you safe and sound. And I won't let anyone who hurts you get away with it.' And I plan to fulfill that promise. Even on myself. I put my boy through so much hardship. Then I will take revenge on myself for that.
-
Confused, Lucian tried to think of what that last line could mean. He dove deep into his memories, fishing at the day when Daniel officially became the golden boy. Oh yeah, he did remember. Shortly after, Bruno had come home beaten-up and bloodied. His face had been like a canvas of blue, purple and red. He had barely remained on his feet. Was that because of this? Had Bruno done this to himself? Absolutely insane person. In reasoning and action. A picture was taken, and the page turned. There were some smudges on this page, as if words had been scratched out.
-
It's been too many years since I've written in here, but it's serious. I really don't know what to do. I can barely wrestle with the feelings I have for ######. For half a year I've been dealing with them, and now I'm starting to sympathize with ###### too? Why him out of all the people? Yes, the sex was nice, but his holes aren't so good that I might actually develop feelings for him. At least that's what I think. My head's a mess. Fuck it all. Maybe I should try ######################.
Oh, to hell with it all. Why deny myself? Why care? I think about ###### so much lately. I dream about him. Why? I just finished ########## to him. I imagine him so much, it's unbearable.
-
What followed was a long list of depraved fantasies. As detailed as they were degenerate. Lucian simply read on in awe, and as the final dot came at the end, he couldn't help but stare at the page. What? What did he just read?
More importantly, this was about him, right? Who else could it be about? The scratched out names had to be him and Daniel. Was Bruno actually catching feelings for him? Was all it took opening his legs? Was that really the key? Lucian laughed. He laughed out loud. A sound of both relief, ridicule and pure mirth. It felt good. It felt so good.
Did all of this mean that he would now also get special treatment? Probably not right away. He'd have to push Bruno a bit more. Who knows, maybe he'd become his sponsor too - just like he laced Daniel's pockets with money. Would that mean he'd be on equal ground with Daniel? With that little sycophant who had been keeping this charade up for years? Oh, that was brilliant.
It felt a bit too good, honestly. But what else could that last entry mean? He tried to think it through, but couldn't come up with any other interpretation. Plus, it perfectly fit with Bruno's recent behavior. He had to be correct. Lucian's eyes started tearing up. It felt... like a victory almost.
He made sure to snap a few pictures into his phone and browsed the notebook further. Sadly, there was nothing else in it, just blank pages and the sticker from the store where it was bought. Nothing of note. Still, this was more than enough.
The little booklet was placed back onto its original spot and Lucian looked the room over one final time. Then, he walked out of the room and closed the door with a certain finality to it. The paper clip in his pocket jingled. How funny - he didn't even have to use it.
Plopping back down at his bed, he relished in the feeling. It was truly as if there was some sort of divine justice favoring him. Or maybe he was just that good. No matter what it was, he awaited the return of his 'family' with glee, thinking about what he would do.
Lucian heard the front door open. The two were back. Must've been a nice outing if it took them this long to come home. Oh well, now he'd replace Daniel by Bruno's side. After all, he had to properly push the brute's buttons to make him admit his feelings. He'd do it, sooner or later. That was his new self-imposed mission. He'd still do the camera shit as backup, but getting Bruno to eat out of his hand? Making him do his bidding? That was a dream come true. That way, he could make good old Danny experience just what he had to go through. Maybe he could even pit them against each other.
The money... the connections... oh, being Bruno's right hand must have had such advantages. But the biggest of them all was the satisfaction he'd get from seeing the tyrant struggle with his own feelings. He could properly punish him from that position - emotionally blackmail him, drain him of his finances, just torment him in every way possible. That image alone was better than any sex he had had with Bruno for the past few days.
That was the future though. To get there, he'd have to act. He checked the camera from his laptop - working well, image clear, sound present, recording functional. Perfect. The phone was also in position if need be. Maybe today he'd finally luck out. It's not like he would stop if he didn't.
Opening the door just a crack, he checked where the two of them were. Angling his head into a better position, he could see that the kitchen door was closed unlike in the morning. They were probably having dinner. Thankfully, Lucian had already eaten, so he could twiddle his thumbs and wait for them to go to bed. Since the next morning it would be Monday, Bruno had to go to work. And that meant an early curfew for the soldier and his squire. But Lucian wasn't about to let him sleep that easily, oh no.
Once that little mosquito was safely quarantined in his room, he'd pay daddy dearest a visit. A quick shag must have surely been possible. He even had the condom ready this time, to prevent any possible failure.
Then - sound. The two men moved out of the kitchen. He quickly closed the door, but pressed his ear against the wood. Daniel was usually the first to shower when they got back simultaneously... At least that's what Lucian remembered. He had never paid too much attention to it. Either way, he'd go with his hunch - he would wait until he heard the second shower come on.
Didn't take too long. Doors opening and closing - Daniel was probably in his room while Bruno was in the shower. Lucian moved out. He positioned himself right in front of the bathroom door, leaning against the wall, legs crossed. The water didn't fall for too long - must've been a quick one. Out of the room came steam and from it - Bruno.
Yet he looked... different. His face was clearly sullen, eyes completely lackluster. Was he that tired? The lines on his face deepened as the edges of his mouth had fallen. Even his posture - normally full of swagger and machismo - was now... normal. A little hunched, even. The venomously green eyes met his.
"What do you want here?" Bruno asked, already in a combative mood.
The tyrant's face hardened, his emeralds gleamed with a fire - normally Lucian had assumed it was from fury, but maybe there was more? It didn't matter, he wasn't scared, not after reading what he had. He leaned away from the wall, approaching Bruno.
"I was just hoping I could help you relieve some tension, Mr. Greene. You don't look too happy. Rough day?" Lucian said, emulating sympathy.
"Watch your mouth, brat. You know that Danny's room is nearby, right? And stop provoking. Do I look like I'm in the mood?" Bruno said with a harsh whisper.
"Of course, I understand you're tired, Mr. Greene. But I was hoping I could help you unwind. Make you forget your troubles. Perhaps fulfill a fantasy? I can also just listen if you have something you need to get off your chest." Lucian responded, lowering his volume as well.
"What stunt are you pulling now?" Bruno said with narrowed eyes.
"Stunt? I... Look... I know I haven't been kind to you. And neither have you to me... but I think it'd be good if you and me were able to reconnect. It worked with Daniel! So why not me?" Lucian acted the role of his lifetime.
"Why not you? Because you're a bastard. Because you're lazy, incompetent, slow and disappointing. And that's just the tip of the iceberg." Bruno spewed acid.
"Mr. Greene... It's okay... I'll still keep on trying. Because I really appreciate your presence, you know? I have only recently had the epiphany that you might have always meant well... I just... I was hoping we could try and mend our relationship." Lucian lied with every breath.
"You want to mend your relationship with me? The one who beats you to the brink of death and has recently started fucking you? Are you hearing yourself?" Bruno said, brows furrowed.
"I hear myself well, Mr. Greene. And I know what I want... you. Do you want me too? I can give myself to you in any way you desire. I just want to be close to you, that's all." Lucian finished his act.
What followed was a long bout of silence. Bruno's eyes peered intensely into Lucian's - searching. Looking for something. Apart from that movement, they were both perfectly still. For the younger man, it felt like a cold war of sorts. A battle of charisma and acting skills. Not violent, yet somehow lethally dangerous. After the imagined eternity, Bruno spoke.
"Come with me." Bruno simply said as he headed for his bedroom.
The master bedroom... That worked? That was it? Lucian was honestly a bit disappointed. He had expected the man whom he had feared for so long to be at least a bit more intelligent. How easy was it to fool this guy?
But that didn't matter. The excitement in his system was bigger. He had finally gotten him! With a jump in his step, he followed the aroma of shampoo right into the den. The stench of sweat was just as overwhelming as before.
Bruno kicked off his house slippers, laying onto the bed barefoot, clad only in his fresh pajama pants. At least they didn't stink yet. He then proceeded to spread his limbs out on the bed. A grunt came from him.
"I really could not give a shit about this now. So just do your thing and get it over with. You do all the work today. And don't forget a condom. I'm not sticking my dick in raw." he said whilst squirming on the bed a bit.
Oh, that wouldn't be a problem for Lucian. In fact - even better. That way, he could make sure the camera captured all the action. Additionally, he'd be able to control the pace this time. Talk about two birds with one stone.
No hesitation in his step, he quickly minimized the distance between himself and the bed, the door closing behind him. He stood there on the edge. Reaching forward, he grabbed the fabric of the pants and proceeded to yank the front down a bit. The underwear hidden beneath was quickly pulled aside as well. And there it was - the cock he was all to familiar with at that point. Completely flaccid. He really hadn't been lying about not being in the mood, then. Oh well, Lucian could work with this either way.
Bending down, he gave it a few kisses. Trailing his mouth all over it, whilst also making sure his face was fully visible on the recording. Everyone should know just who Bruno was giving access to. A lick or two later, and it was already chubbing up, the body underneath trembling slightly.
With practice, he pulled out the condom he had prepared, pulling it over the almost fully erect tool. Then, he pulled down his own pants and straddled Bruno. Aiming at his entrance, he pushed the snake's head in first, accommodating to the size. Even though he had taken it the day before and prepared with his fingers whilst the two were away, it was still a challenge to accept.
Looking at Bruno's face didn't help the situation either. He was yawning, occasionally even rolling his eyes as Lucian worked himself down on his cock. That fucker had some gall. But Lucian would show him what he could do. He started slowly bouncing up and down on the shaft, increasing the pace each time. He even threw his head back to make sure his face was fully in the camera. But then his ass let the dick slip out. It was flaccid again.
"For someone who apparently drowns in sex you are really bad at this." Bruno said with a sigh.
The behemoth started stroking himself, getting to full mast again quickly. He reinserted himself into Lucian and started thrusting upwards. Lazy, but powerful strokes. Whilst the blonde's riding did not focus on his prostate at all, Bruno's movements did. Intensively.
Lucian let out strangled moan after moan as he was being thrown up and down on Bruno's hips. The change of force was brutal. The man on the bed even seemed to gain a slight smile as the itchy pubes scratched at Lucian's rim.
"Been imagining how nice your cock would look bouncing up and down. Didn't disappoint." he said quietly.
This would have been something for Lucian to cogitate over, had his mind not been blank from the sensations he was feeling. It was getting hard to breathe from the constant vertical movement, but he could feel himself come close. He shut his eyes. He didn't want to admit the fact fucking Bruno was making him orgasm. He tried to breathe deeply to calm himself, but his lungs weren't cooperating. Neither was his groin.
His voice got needier and needier as his climax was imminent. A tissue got pressed into his hand.
"You do not want to see what happens if you get even one drop of your jizz on me." Bruno growled threateningly.
The pace sped up and Lucian couldn't handle it anymore. He clutched the tissue paper close to his glans, trying to capture his entire release into it. Bruno too was reaching the summit as his breathing was getting ragged.
Soon, a final thrust came as Lucian felt his hole clamp down on the now still member. A few quiet groans came from Bruno, before he started shoving Lucian off of himself.
"Get out. I need to sleep. And give me that, brat." Bruno said as he pushed the younger man off of the bed and grabbed the tissue in his hand.
Lucian landed on the ground with a soft thud - his sore ass meeting the ground. A yelp came out, but not much more. He was too tired to speak anything extra. He tried to stand, legs shaky.
Meanwhile Bruno got rid of the rubber and tissue in the bin below his bed. The same one he had thrown his own tissue into when Lucian first saw him jizz over Daniel... Ha, how funny. Bruno said he imagined his dick bouncing up and down. Not Daniel's. He really was on the way to victory.
But this was no time to overstay his welcome. Limping, he walked out, giving the camera one last good look at his face. With a slow pace, he made his way across the hall, all the way to the safety of his own four walls and bed. His legs giving out, he landed on the rough sheets right as the door closed behind him.
He groaned and moaned from both exhaustion and euphoria, slowly coming back to his senses. He reached out to his laptop, wanting to check the recording one more time before sleep took him. There it was. Clear as day. Lucian had an actual recording of Bruno fucking him in the ass. No doubt about it. Both of their faces fully visible numerous times, including their conversation.
This was really it... he won. He won against Bruno... But he could win more. He was on his way to not only get him behind bars, but decimate him completely. Or use him - as he had the full right to. Downloading the recording, he let his mind wander. How delicious revenge was. How nice it felt to have the weapon ready in hand, just waiting for whenever he was in the mood to use it. Life would be better from this moment on. Lucian was sure of it.
