1. Meet Noah

Noah’s POV

“GET BACK HERE YOU SLUT!” He screamed at me. I continued running away as I got closer to my car. The heavy sounds of his footsteps getting closer made me pick up my pace.

“NO! GET THE FUCK AWAY FROM ME!” I breathed heavily as I got inside the car and locked it quickly like my life depended on it, because it did. He approached the window of the car and tried breaking the window. It cracked slightly as he growled at me.

“OPEN UP BITCH!” He pounded faster but I pulled away from the meadow and drove away. My heart beat was fast and my eyes filled with tears. I wiped the ones that fell onto my cheeks. I finally got the courage to stand up to that devil. After weeks of torment, I finally told him no.

He didn’t take my rebellion well. But I didn’t care. This is about me. I didn’t feel safe. I drove past the fields filled with blooming flowers thanks to the summer sun. But I’m still crying. I couldn’t see from the tears and my vision was impaired. My driving became shaky as all I saw was blurry. I swerved as I saw a tree get close to me. I tried escaping it but then…

CRASH!

I woke up. That damn dream has been haunting me since it happened. I’ve tried to ignore the dream. But I guess what makes it worse is that the dream actually happened. And it was an accident that forever changed my life. It’s hard to explain the effect but just know that it’s made me become a sort of empty vessel of my former self. I’m sure this story might give some better insight.

“NOAH! TIME FOR SCHOOL!” My mother screamed from the bottom of the stairs. I groaned and put my hands over my face. Fuck you September!

“Oh shit!” I got up and saw I sweated up a storm. It isn’t even hot but I guess remembering your trauma can make you nervous or something. I went to my desk and opened the damn orange pill bottle. I pulled out one pill and swallowed it.

‘Omg he didn’t swallow it with water! He’s weird.’ Shut the fuck up!

I showered at night so all I need to do is dress. I brushed my teeth because my morning breath stinks. I used to love going to school but the public education system has made my passion and fire burn out. And after the accident it got worse.

I don’t need your pity. I’m fine. That’s what I tell everyone who even cares enough to talk to me. I go downstairs since my room is on the third floor. It’s not an actual floor but a room in the attic that I have for myself. My parents insisted I take one of my younger sibling’s rooms to have better access to the bathroom after the accident but I prefer my privacy.

“Hey sweetie. Breakfast is ready if you want any.” my mother spoke in her sweet voice. She said ‘if you want any’ because she knows that I rarely eat breakfast. His words would always ring in my ear when I ate. I tried to block them out but he carved pieces of my self esteem until it was left with an empty version of myself.

I simply got my backpack and swung it over my arm and headed out the door.

“BYE NONO!” my little sister Carla said. She was always my favorite person out of everyone in the family. She was there for me after the accident and would enter my room every night to make sure I was sleeping okay. I gave her a simple wave and walked out. I passed the wilting hydrangeas that needed cutting.

“Have a fun day sport.” dad said. Dad has been trying to get me to be more open. He would invite his buddies over and they would bring their sons to play. It never worked so he stopped but he would make the effort to make me feel better.

“Bye dad.” I responded.

I walked down the steps and looked over at our old neighbors house. Back then an elderly couple lived there but the husband died and the wife moved to a home. I didn’t care. I once heard them calling a gay kid a slur and they also threatened to shoot BLM protesters. Karma is a bitch.

But that’s not what caught my attention. Instead I saw a moving truck. It was situated in the street in front of it and the owner’s car was in the driveway. Several cardboard boxes stood on top of each other looking like they were about to collapse any moment.

Rather than pay any more attention, I just walked fast to avoid human interaction. I walked fast and reached the school. It was only about 10 minutes away. My dad offered to buy me another car after the… indecent. But ever since then I refuse to drive. The warning bell rang soon and it was time to head to class.

“Hey there little Noah.” his voice rang in my ears and I already knew who it was.

“H-hey Mack.” my voice trembled. Mack was a passive-aggressive type bully, if that’s a thing. Rather than shove me into a locker or spill milk on me, he teased me by calling me pet names. He would always talk about how short I was or how baby-like my face was.

“What’s wrong, squirt? Can’t even look at your superiors.” His voice was a bit irritated. I looked down to not see his eyes.

“Aww c’mon, I know you’re shy. Want me to hold your hand? Give you kisses on your boo-boo?” I’m pretty sure he thinks he’s funny but he isn’t.

“I-I need to g-get to class.” I responded. He lifted my face by my chin and looked at me.

“I’ll see you around, fag.” He said that last word nonchalantly. Excuse me, you’re the one who’s offering me to kiss me. I turned around and took two steps before he slapped my ass. I turned around and saw him giggling at himself.

The only reason I don’t tell anyone about him is because he’s on the football team. The football team can get away with anything. When Mack groped me, I told a student advisor, who is an actual student, and they told Mack what I reported. Mack then tried to tell the whole school I sucked him off and that I was a whore but I agreed that I wouldn’t tell anyone.

The rest of the day went by normally. My normal. Sitting alone in every class and at lunch with no friends. I had some friends before the accident but afterwards they abandoned me when I became a social outcast. I don’t need friends, they disappoint me.

I began walking home and I felt awkward after Mack tried kissing my cheek during lunch. I know I’m gay (surprise surprise) but that doesn’t mean I want to go around kissing every guy. Funny how it’s always straight guys who do the gayest shit and INSIST they aren’t gay.

Makes you wonder, huh?

I reached my house and saw the moving truck still there. But most of the boxes were inside. I saw my mom in the new neighbors lawn and I already knew she had invited them to dinner. And then she’s gonna make me eat with them. And make me clean my room, even though we won’t be eating in my room. And then make me talk to them and introduce myself. And God forbid there be a person my age! Mom would make me talk to them.

I decided to go through the side entrance of our house since it led to the back yard. The backyard was a nice flat area. There was a patio, large pool, a garden, and a playground for my younger siblings. But MY favorite part wasn’t in the backyard but beyond it. The woods.

Since our town is pretty small with no crime, there aren’t any back fences. So our backyard leads directly into the woods. I sighed in relief when I entered and smelled the okay scent.

Just like when I first found you.

I continued walking through the woods and shivered a bit from the cold. After walking for a while, I found it.

Standing on top of a large oak tree, accentuated by ladders and branches, was my favorite place in this damn town, my treehouse.

2. Meet Aaron

Aaron’s POV

“Ron, we’re almost there.” father told me as we drove past the miles of woods. We were approaching our new home. I was ansty to get off since my legs needed stretching.

OKAY. Before you ask, no I am not moving because I killed someone in my old city and have to move to get away from everyone. I DID NOT light my school on fire. I DID NOT rob a bank. I DID NOT join the mafia and then run away. I am simply moving because my father wanted to escape a large city and move up north.

I’m kinda all for it. I hated living in New York City because it was way too loud and smelly. So far, this town seems nice. I saw pictures of it and it looks so cute. It was like your basic vintage Americana town. A theater, diners, classic American high school. It’s very, American.

“Ron-Bud, we’re here.” mother said just as I started falling asleep. I snapped awake and looked out my right window. From the highway, I could see the city. It was beautiful. A lot of the houses were large and coniferous trees littered the town. It was fairly dark since it was in the wee hours of the morning. The streetlights and the overpeaking sun gave enough illumination to see the town. I can only imagine how it looks when it’s snowy.

The city was surrounded by large mountains, giving it a sense of loss in time. It’s its own universe here. Anything that happens here only happens here. And that sounds amazing.

The drive to our house was about 15 minutes once we exited the highway and the drive around was relaxing. I saw a few places that I want to visit when the time comes. I caught a glimpse of the high school I’ll be attending. I hope I make friends. I miss my friends. I almost didn’t want to move because of them but it’s life. I hope to have a fun year.

I hope to meet someone. Hint at the someone .

We pulled up to the place that I would be calling home for the next year. It was a standard colonial house. It had three floors with the top being a single room. There was a nice oak tree in the front of the yard that had wilting leaves colored red, orange, and yellow. It’s gonna be hell to clean those leaves up.

I was caught staring at the house and saw my parents had already exited the car and were looking at the surrounding area. The sun was already up and was shining. I texted my friends letting them know that I made it ‘home’. They wished me luck and I exited the car to be met with the September morning cold.

“It’s nice, huh?” my mother told my dad. He nodded and looked up at the vines crawling up the side of the house that had blooming pomegranate buds. The front door was unlocked and my mother entered. My dad went to bring the car into the driveway to leave room for the moving truck.

“Ron, go inside and choose which room you want.” screamed my mother from inside the house. I left from the front garden and went inside.

The inside of the house was a bit empty. I said ‘hello’ and heard my voice echoing through the empty walls. Upon entering you’re met with the living room which leads into the dining room in the front and a family room to the right. There was a set of stairs near the top right wall and a cupboard underneath the stairs.

The second floor had about two rooms and two bathrooms. And another set of stairs at the end of the hall. The stair led into the top floor. My room.

I entered the empty room and was amazed by the spacious room. It was the size of a normal room but on the left side of the room was a single floor to ceiling window. The window alone let enough light to illuminate the entire room.

I signed, knowing that this is the room I chose. I looked outside the window and was met with the sight of another room. It was right across from mines by only a few meters. It’s as if our windows wanted to kiss, that’s how close they are.

The said room across from mine was furnished to an amount that it looked like someone had lived in it for several years. Maybe even to an amount of their whole life. Their room was covered in posters but it was too far to see. I could make out a desk, closet, and a door that led to most likely the hallway.

I began to imagine what the layout of my room would look like. I could add a bed on the right side of the window, my desk on the left. Some weights in that corner. A couch there. A gumball machine! A fish tank! Fairy lights!

“AARON! COME MEET THE NEIGHBORS!” my mom shook me out of my thoughts. I went downstairs in heavy footsteps to make my entrance known. I’ve learned to walk with hard footsteps because one time I walked in on my mom and dad… yeah. So now I make sure people can tell when I’m coming.

I reached the bottom and saw two adults talking to my mom. They stopped and my mom motioned for me to greet them.

“Aaron, meet the James’. They live right next door and will be helping us unpack.” I turned to meet the pair and smiled at them. They gave me happy smiles. I was taller than them so they had to look up a bit. The James and my mom went outside to discuss and help. My dad turned to me and whispered something that made my day.

“They brought brownies. They’re on the counter.” My smile grew and I turned to eat them brownies. I devoured them in a matter of a few seconds.

Outside was my dad and Mrs. James unpacking some boxes. The moving truck was opened and a few workers were pulling the boxes on the driveway stacking them up. I felt as if the boxes would collapse any second.

“If you want, I could give you advice on how to keep the calla lilies pristine.” Mr. James explained to my very intrigued mom. I looked at Mr. James’ yard and saw an abundance of flowers that looked like they had been cared for by the best professional.

“Oh Petey, you’re too kind.” My mother laughed and they continued talking. I went to one of the boxes and opened it. I immediately saw a picture of me and my friend Roy. We were at the beach that day. It was the day I told him I was moving.

“C’mon Ron! The water’s nice!” Roy yelled from the ocean. He bobbed up and down and his smile is something I’ll miss.

“Actually, I need to tell you something important Rock.” I called him ‘Rock’ since it was a nickname I gave him when I first met him. He got out of the water and walked towards me.

“What’s up?” He smiled at me. Oh how I’ll miss that smile. Our friendship was platonic but if we wanted we could’ve dated. I began to tear up before I could even say anything.

“Hey, what’s wrong?” He hugged me as I cried into his shoulder. His fingers ran along my bare back. I cried until I separated away from him and stared into his brown hazel eyes.

“I’m moving Roy.” I said sternly and he looked at me as his eyes began to tear. We stayed in silence for a few seconds until he spoke.

“How long until you leave?”

“A month.”

“It’s our final year. We promised we were gonna go to prom together. We were gonna graduate together. We were gonna drink for the first time together. We- we were gonna do THIS together.” He sobbed and I also began to sob. He hugged and cried unto me and I held him.

“I’m sorry. I didn’t want this to happen. Even though I’m moving, I’ll always remember you. We have a month to create new memories. We could still drink together. That’s one thing we can do. But you’ll always have a place with me.” We sniffed and cried. The mood was still gloomy but my words brought a sense of happiness. Hope. Joy.

“Let’s do it together one step at a time.” Roy said and we jumped into the ocean as we splashed each other, knowing what was to come.

I had begun to sob and my mother’s voice broke me out of my daze. I looked at her and she along with my dad and Mrs. James were looking at me.

“What’s wrong dear?”

“I just- I’m gonna miss Roy.” I said.

“I know, baby. But you’ll see him one day again. You two were so close you’re bound to cross paths again. I know it.” She put a comforting hand on my shoulder and I nodded in approval as I wiped my eyes from the tears.

I miss you, Rock.

3. Treehouse

Noah’s POV

Just want to say, a treehouse is NOT just for kids.

Anyways…

Walking past the yard I walked into the forest. The podzol soil was littered with dead pine needles that crunched under my shoes. Walking through the forest was relaxing. After a day of being borderline sexually assulted, the wilderness is nice. The scent of woods filled my nostrils. I felt my lungs open wider at the contact of naturally fresh air.

I walked along the path that had eroded and become more prominent over the years of walking the same path. I like coming here when my mind is full. Definitely feels full right now.

After about five minutes, I reached my favorite spot in this town. My treehouse. It was like any other tree that lined these forests. But the trunk of the tree had my name carved on it.

“NOAH’S HOME: KEEP OUT!” it says carved in messy slashes. I still remember when I found this tree.

It was a few months after the ‘incident’ and I was holding onto strings. I like allusions so I’ll keep the information vague. It was early Saturday morning and I had enough of everything at home. I was getting tired of my mom nagging me to take my meds. My therapist was pestering me to open up. My dad kept inviting his ‘buddies’ over and trying to get me to talk to new people.

Honestly I’ve had enough. To make it worse, Mack began to bully me. It started when I was in the bathroom stall. I had accidentally unraveled the bandages on my arm and went to fix them. I had them undone when Mack poked his head and entered my stall. He saw my arm and froze.

The scars on my arm from the incident makes it look like I cut myself. I didn’t! It’s just a coincidence it looks like that. He reached out to touch it and I hid my arm. I felt uncomfortable with the tight enclosure and him being so close to us.

“Noah. Are you cutting yourself?” He asked in a soft voice. I tried to respond back but his breath was hitting my forehead and I hated the closeness to intimacy.

“N-no Mack-k. I-I swear I’m not.” My voice sounded pathetic.

“It’s okay Noah. I’m here for you.” He hugged me but I knew this hug was not out of care.

From then on, he would continue to hug and treat me like a child for the following week. I tried to ignore him but he was everywhere. One day I had enough of him and lashed out at him. He looked stunned and I walked away. The next day was full of peace. But you know what they say. There’s always a calm before a storm.

I walked into school the following day to people looking at me with concerning eyes. Some couldn’t even look at me. I went to my locker and felt eyes around me. I was confused as to what I did. I was called into the principal’s office and was met with the man himself and the school’s counselor.

“Noah, it has come to my attention that you apparently tried to take your own life.” He said and my eyes widened. This is absurd. I quickly dismissed the claims but no one believed me. I even brought my parents and the surgeon who treated me to clear up the claims. The school believed me but the students were a different story. From then on, I was that kid who tried to “kill themselves.”

Mack met me the following day after everything and told me he was the one who spread the rumor. He warned me that the next time I tried to tell him off that the rumors would get worse. So that’s why I let him do what he wants.

I looked back at my tree house and climbed it. The ladder was a bit shaky but I couldn’t bother to fix it. If you knew where to step, you could reach the top.

I entered the treehouse. The ladder led directly into the room, all you had to do was open a trapdoor. I lifted myself up and sat on the floor. The space inside was about 1/2 of my normal room. That being said, I found it more comfortable. There was a simple bed with a desk and a mini fridge. My dad was able to connect a large extension cord from the house to here.

After finding this tree and falling in love with it, I wanted to have something here to escape. I hadn’t spoken that much within the past months after the accident but talked to my dad. He was stunned at me talking to him with more than just one word.

My proposal was simple, I wanted him to build me a treehouse. He agreed because A) I rarely ask for anything and B) I literally just got into an accident so of course he’ll give me what I want. Within the span of a few weeks, he would build my second home. His buddies came over to build the house. I’m sure they only agreed out of pity.

I layed on the bed. It was a bit uncomfortable but my back was already broken. I checked the time and pulled out a pill I kept in a small container and swallowed it. Looking out the window, the wind blew and made the branches knock on the window.

I layed for a while but decided to do my homework. After an hour, I pulled out a snack and munched on them. I had nothing to do so I blasted music and read a book.

‘You’re worthless without me.’

‘No one will fuck you except me.’

‘It’s just a simple blowjob.’

‘Sluts like you will always be alone.’

SHUT UP! SHUT UP! SHUT UP!

His words rang in my head and I covered my ears as if it’ll block them out. But his words rang in my head because despite him being gone, he scared me. I was afraid of him everyday. He could come and do something to me whenever he felt like it. He has power. All I am is a simple town boy who was left broken and abandoned by someone I had trusted.

Tears formed in my eyes and I wiped them away. I heard a voice calling me. Took me a few seconds to register that this voice was in the present and was calling me.

“NOAH! YOU THERE BUDDY?” my dad’s voice was calling out from the bottom of the tree. He doesn’t enter my treehouse because he understands that I have this place for myself. It’s my place of peace.

I looked outside and saw it was dawn. The sun was setting and the sky was painted with strokes of red, orange, yellow, and indigo from the night. The tall pine trees made the view all the more breathtaking.

“NOAH?”

“I’m here dad.” I called from above. I opened the trap door and saw him with a flashlight looking up at me. His outfit was a bit more professional, something he usually doesn’t do for anything.

“Hey bud. Uh, we invited the new neighbors over for dinner. Wanna come and meet them? They have a guy your age.” The mention of someone my age pained me. My dad may have given up on helping me make friends, but this new guy lives next to us. I’ll have to see him several times now and if he’s friendly he’ll try to talk to me.

“No thanks. I’ll just stay here.” I said.

“Okay bud, just make sure you come back before 9.” I felt the disappointment in his voice as I declined his offer. We said goodbye and I returned to what I was doing before I remembered those hurtful words.

I’m hoping for a silent night today.

4. Dinner With The James

Aaron’s POV

“Okay then! That’s everything!” My dad said as he and Mr. James put down the couch where we wanted it. We had worked all day and I found more about Mr. and Mrs. James. For one, they have kids. Yay. Also Mr. James owns a gardening business. He built it when he moved to this town when he was in his teens. The mention of his teen years left a sour expression on his face. Meanwhile Mrs. James was a housewife who stayed home.

So far, my experience in this town has been nothing but happiness. It was a chilly autumn afternoon right now. I was a bit hungry but chose not to complain.

“Would you guys like to join us for dinner tonight? We want to welcome you to our town!” Mrs. James said while asking my mom and dad.

“Sure. What time would you like for us to come?” My dad asked.

“Seven p.m. would be great.” Mrs. James said. It was like 2:30 right now. We had a few hours to get ready.

“Perfect! Thank you so much for your help today.” Both my parents thanked the James. I shook Mr. James’ hand and hugged Mrs. James.

They seemed like a perfect couple. Reminds me of my parents. Both had people whom they loved. I want that.

“You heard them. Go get ready and choose an outfit. Organize your room, you have school on Monday.” My mom said.

I groaned remembering that I have school soon. The glimpse I saw of the high school gave me ominous vibes. It was like a standard high school.

“Ron, will you be joining football this year?” My dad asked. He’s always been invested in sports with me. I was a beast at football back in New York. So of course he would want me to join as soon as possible.

“I don’t know. I think tryouts ended already.” I said.

“I called the school, tryouts close next week. You still have time.” He patted my back. At least I had something to look forward to.

I entered our new home and looked around. The picture frames were hung on the walls, the dishes were washed, and the hallways were clear of boxes.

I decided to check out the backyard. I walked and saw the green grass. There was an area that had dead grass. Mr. James said he was going to come soon and fix it up to make it look nice. A pool was settled on the right. But what took my breath away was ahead of me. It was a forest. Our backyard led directly into the forest. There was no fence.

I think right now is the time when the local high school gets out. I went to my room and organized everything. It took me a while to organize everything. I added the frame of my old friends on my desk. I pulled out my old letterman jacket and looked at it. I got it signed by everyone before I left. I grazed my fingers over the names.

Treyvon

Cassie

Iris

Frankie

Ophelia

It was now 6:45 pm and it was almost time for dinner. I walked downstairs to see my parents wearing nice outfits. I looked down at my outfit. It was fine. Not overly casual but enough to show that I cared.

“Time for dinner, buckaroo!” I cringed at my dad saying that.

We walked the few steps to the James’ house. It was your standard colonial house. Two floors with a third that was like ours. I kinda wondered who lived in that room. Was it someone my age? Would we get along?

“Smile, boys.” My mom said to us. I smiled, genuinely. We knocked on the door and waited a few seconds for the door to open.

“Mommy, they’re here!” A little girl said. I looked down at her and awed.

“Hi, I’m Carla James. I’ll be your host for this evening.” The little girl said. We looked at her. She was so mature for her age.

“I’ll take your coats.” She said. We handed them to her and walked into the house. The house had a nice homey feel to it. You could tell that it was full of love and care. But there was a vibe that felt off. Like something was missing.

“Welcome to our house. Please, sit down.” Mr. James said while guiding us to the kitchen. We sat and were introduced to Carla, the girl who greeted us, and Benjohn, a little boy who looked younger.

Dinner started off great. My father explained why we moved here and the business he owns. My mom and Mrs. James conversed about going shopping soon and what places are best. What did I do?

Me, Carla, and Ben flicked peas at each other like we were in a war.

“I’m sorry Aaron, I have a son your age but he’s not here right now.” Mrs. James said.

“It’s fine. Does he not eat dinner?” I asked. If there was another person my age maybe we could be friends.

“He does, but he prefers to be alone.” She said. She looked a little sad talking about him. Like if it was a sensitive topic. I decided not to ask anymore.

“So, Aaron, what will you be doing during your last year?” Mr. James asked.

“Oh, I play football, quarterback. I’m gonna play for Harrison High and I’m gonna try out on Monday.” I said.

“You’re going to Harrison? Great. Our son goes there too. Maybe you two can be friends.” Mrs. James sounded hopeful.

“I hope we can. I don’t know anybody here yet. Would be nice to meet someone.” I said. I was gonna respond again until a pea hit my nose. I turned and saw Carla giggling.

“Oh it’s on!” I said softly. We threw peas at each other while the parents talked. Don’t worry I’ll be sure to clean it up!

We left the James’ house and went back home. It was a great dinner. I really enjoyed it. I got to meet new people in a town we know nothing about. But a thought remained in my head. And it was about that boy. The one they said was my age. Why wasn’t he eating with his family? Why was Mrs. James so sad talking about him? Do they not like each other?

I wondered for a while. I shouldn’t be thinking too much. I didn’t know him yet, hadn’t even seen him. I really do want to be friends with him. I feel that as soon as I get on the football team, I will be surrounded with obnoxious people.

I laid awake for a while and it was almost midnight. I looked at the ceiling and slowly my eyes got heavy. Out of the corner of my eyes, a light shined. It was from the room across from me. A light was turned on but sleep overtook me and my eyes shut.

5. Alone

Noah’s POV

It was probably about midnight right now and I was still in my treehouse. Don’t blame me. If you had a place you felt safe in, you would want to be there for as long as you can. My lamp light was still on and soft music played. I had taken a nap earlier so I wouldn’t lose out on any sleep.

I checked my phone and it was 11:49 pm.

“I think it’s time to leave.” I said to myself. I gathered my belongings. I stopped when I saw a drawing on the floor. It was from Carter, an old friend.

Before the accident, Carter and I used to be inseparable. I loved him in a platonic way. We would always enjoy each other’s company. Two peas in a pod, they say.

When I got into the accident, Carter came to visit me in the hospital. This was about a month before school started again. I never told anyone all the details of that day. Or the weeks before. I don’t want to tell anyone. The trauma, emotional and physical, left me a husk of who I was.

And Carter noticed this.

I never told Carter what happened exactly, but he knew not to pester because as long as he was with me, I was fine. Everyday he visited me to make sure I was okay. My mom was relieved that I had someone to talk to. I just couldn’t tell my parents. They would’ve judged me or found a way to blame me.

And besides, I don’t want to think about him . Even if I said something, powerful people have a way to stay clean.

I thought that when I finally got out of the hospital, everything would be fine. Not perfect, but fine.

That is until Carter broke some news to me a week before I was discharged.

“ I’m so sorry, Noah. “ He said

I sobbed as Carter had just finished telling me that he was moving away.

“Why Carter!? I need you! I can’t do this alone!” I sobbed while he held me.

“I’m sorry, but my parents already decided.” He said. He cuddled me like a hurt puppy, because in a way, I was.

He handed me a drawing that he made right before he left. It was us, sitting under an umbrella in a grassy field. The contours and shadows were on point. He smiled and I smiled too. Been a while since I did that. There was a note at the bottom but to this day I refuse to read it.

One day.

Enough memories! I needed to get home. I climbed down the ladder, making sure I turned off the lights in my tree house. When I reached down, I got the flashlight my dad left for me. I turned it on and followed to bright orange x’s marked on the tree. You can only see them if you look close enough. The orange tape is made to reflect light so when you flash it, they illuminate. That’s how I found my way home.

My parents understand to leave the door unlocked for me to enter. It wasn’t uncommon for me to enter during the night. They would also leave my dinner on the table for me to eat. Sometimes Carla would make notes for me telling me about her day so I’m not lonely. Or she leaves her stuffed animals to eat with me.

“Noah.” I heard my mom’s voice say. I was kinda startled because they would be asleep right now. Guess not.

“Mom? Dad? Why aren’t you guys asleep.”

‘Why aren’t you asleep also?’ some of you may ask. Shut up. I have a logical reason. But you’ll find that out later.

“We wanted to talk to you.” My dad made sure to use his soft voice. He didn’t know what I went through, no one does, but he understands that whatever it was must’ve been so horrible that it left me empty.

“About…?” I didn’t like where this was heading.

“Well, the neighbors that recently moved have a son your age.”

OH GOD!

“I don’t see why this is relevant to me.” I said. I was hoping she wouldn’t say what I think she’s gonna say.

“We were thinking that maybe you could be his friend. He’s new and he could use someone to talk to.” She said. I tried to keep my cool and not lash out at her.

“Now honey, if he doesn’t want to be friends, he doesn’t need to.” My dad said. I guess he remembered when he would bring people over to try to be friends with me but I refused. Good to know that I have someone on my side.

“MOM! How many times do I have to say this? I don’t need friends! I’m perfectly okay being alone!” I said.

“No one is okay being alone. Look, I know you went through something horrible, but please talk to us. Tell us why you’re like this!” My mom pleaded. Seeing her to the brink of tears made my heart hurt. I can’t believe my selfish actions were causing my mom to be hurt.

“I- I just can’t tell you mom. You wouldn’t understand.” I didn’t know if she would. She probably wouldn’t.

“Please, Noah! I’m tired of seeing you like this. All alone with no one to talk to. After Carter left, you became too quiet. And your depression is concerning. We just want to help you.” She pleaded. My dad comforted her.

“I’m sorry mom. I’ll tell you one day, but not right now. I’m sorry.” A few tears escaped my eyes. Why was I like this? All she wants is to help me but I’m refusing her efforts.

“Goodnight.” I said plainly. I grabbed the plate of cold pasta and headed to my room. I walked through the second floor when Carla’s voice startled me.

“Noah.” She said. I turned and saw her standing outside her door.

“Carla? Go to bed, it’s way too late.” I said.

“I agree with momma, you need friends. I don’t want you to be alone. It’s okay to be broken.” Carla said. I ruffled her hair.

“Go to bed, Car.” I said.

“You should really be friends with him, tho. He’s really fun. I think I’m in love!” She said in a happy voice. She walked back into her room and shut the door. I giggled and walked to my room.

I entered my room and turned on the light. I ate my food on my bed while watching a video on my phone. I honestly didn’t want to be here in the morning and see my mom and be faced with an awkward tension after what just happened.

Morning came and rather than stay around, I left like at seven in the morning and went back to my treehouse. I took my backpack with me to do work and some snacks. All I want is a normal Saturday with no interruptions. Until Saturday and Sunday pass and I have to go back to school on Monday.

---

bye! i love you all!

6. Tour Guide

Aaron’s POV

YAWN

That’s all I did for five minutes after I woke up. Sleeping in a new home is something I’m not used to. I lived in the same home for my entire life. I thought I would’ve had a hard time sleeping but nope, I slept perfectly.

I remembered that glow I saw last night right before I passed out. Whoever slept there must’ve come back in the middle of the night. It was probably that kid that didn’t join his family last night with the James’. The kid my age.

I remembered that I wanted to at least talk to him. Seeing as how my first day was coming soon. I could use a friend.

I pictured what he would look like. Was he tall? Short? Shy? Outspoken? Smart? Dumb? Funny? Was really betting on funny because I could use some who’ll remind me of home.

I wanted to go over to see if he was home. He must be. People usually stay in on Saturday’s, right? I wanted to dress nice. So I picked an outfit that would impress anyone.

“Where you headed to, kid.” My mom said while fixing the house.

“Over to the James’. I wanted to talk to that one kid they mentioned last night.” I said. She let me leave and I walked a few steps to their front door and knocked.

“Oh, Aaron. What can we do for you?” Mrs. James said.

“I was hoping to meet your son and see if we could hang out.” I said while smiling at her. I saw the inside of the house and saw Ben watching TV while Carla put stickers in his face. Carla saw me and smiled.

“Oh, I’m sorry Aaron, he isn’t home right now.” She looked saddened mentioning him. Was this guy ever home? Judging from Mrs. James’ expression, he probably does this a lot. Probably is always lonely.

“Oh, well, if he’s ever around, could you let him know that I would like to meet him.” I said.

“About that, I’m sorry Aaron. You’re a kind young man, but my son prefers to be alone. I can’t explain it, but it’s better if you befriended someone else that will actually want to be friends with you.” Mrs’ James said. I looked at her flabbergasted. What kind of mom tells someone not to be friends with their child? This wasn’t advice, it was a warning.

“Oh… okay then. Well, have a nice day Mrs. James’!” I said not wanting to talk anymore. She said bye back and I walked home

Monday rolled around quickly and now it was time for school. I walked to the front and got a lot of stares from girls who looked at me hungrily. I chose to ignore their stares, since they probably just wanted a hookup.

I walked into the school and a lot of eyes were on me. I did stand out with my 6’1 frame. But I remained composed and made sure not to show weakness.

I headed over to the office to get my schedule. I entered and was met with a young woman who smiled at me.

“You must be Aaron Stevens. Welcome to Harrison High School! Here’s your schedule. Your classes have been added. Today you’ve been excused from classes so you can have a tour. Your tour guide should be here soon.” She said in a cheery tone. I admire her for being so happy at this time in the morning.

Suddenly, a small boy walked into the office. He looked about 5’7. Brown hair, brown eyes, nice plump lips, a slight tan. He looked… cute.

“There’s your tour guide.” The woman said. I looked at the smaller boy. I saw a blush creep on his neck when he saw me. There was an awkward tension in the room. So I chose to speak first.

“Hi, I’m Aaron Stevens. I’m new here.” I said.

“Obviously.” He said. I could tell he felt awkward. I was taken aback by his response. Rude are we today, aye?

“C’mon.” He said with no emotion. He led me out of the office and was met with an empty hallway.

“Soooooo, are you gonna tell me your name?” I said. I was intrigued by him. He was smaller but had a stubborn attitude.

“Nope. We won’t see each other after you make friends so why should I tell you.” He said.

“Give me your schedule.” He said. I handed it to him and our fingers touched. I felt sparks light up and I think he did too because he pulled his hand away quickly.

“Oh great. Just my luck.” He said clearly not liking what he saw.

“What’s wrong?” I asked.

“We have the same classes.” He said. I lit up a bit. I’m starting to like Mr. Grumpy. I’ll get to see him more now. He seems very reserved. Not in the typical shy kid vibe, but more like someone who clearly abstains from people. Someone who isn’t afraid of people, but what people might do to him.

I know it’s not my business, but I want to know why he doesn’t like me, and judging by his actions, anyone. A sweet looking kid like him should be much nicer.

Or maybe he just doesn’t like me.

He began to walk away. I caught up to him quickly. This boy is fast.

“Here’s the chemistry class. Be careful, some people hook up there.” He said nonchalantly.

“Here’s the English class. A little advice for Ms. Pattison, she doesn’t like people saying bless you in her class. Claims that most kids don’t even believe in God so when someone sneezes, you just have to stay silent.” He said. I laughed.

“Wow, she sounds fun!” I said while touching his shoulder playfully. He brushed my hand away from him but I saw a blush form on his face. I wasn’t sure if it was because he was nervous… or maybe he liked me.

This is gonna be fun!

“And here’s the cafeteria. Sit where you can when you can. Seats are taken fast.” I looked around the dining hall. Seats aligned everywhere with tables. A huge window was on the opposite end of the hall that let in the perfect amount of light.

“And where does someone like you sit?” I asked.

“Nunya business.” He said.

“Aww come on! Give me something. Anything!” I said.

“I won’t do anything to hurt you. I promise.” I said while smiling at him.

“I don’t even know you. Why would I tell you?” He said.

“Please. We could be like, friends.” I said. I genuinely wanted to get to know him.

“Ha! Heard that before.” He laughed sarcastically.

What secrets are you hiding, boy? Who hurt you?

---

bye! i love you all!

7. Lockerroom Boys

Noah’s POV

It was Monday again. Great. Another day of being with people who I don’t like. It was especially worse because I was called into the principal’s office when I entered school.

I walked to the principal’s office and greeted Mr. Harrison.

“Good morning Noah. Thanks for coming in today.” He said, sipping his coffee.

“No problem. What did you need me for?” I asked.

“We have a new student today and I would like for you to give him a tour of the school. I’ve excused your first few periods to go around. I think you’ll like him. He has a pretty good record.” His over the top cheery voice angered me.

I was fine with giving a tour. At first. But when he said that I’ll like him, it felt like a personal attack. Mr. Harrison was made aware of my accident after the rumor of me trying to kill myself came out. He was also one of the people my dad invited over with their son, Frankie. Rather than play with Frankie, it just watched TV while he tried to get me to play football. Instead I ignored him.

Luckily Frankie didn’t hold a grudge against me. I occasionally see him and all he does is give me a small wave.

To say I hated Aaron was an understatement.

Okay. I don’t hate him. I don’t even know the guy. All I know is that his name is Aaron, we have the same classes, he’s tall, probably athletic, handsome as fuck, and has a good sense of style.

But I couldn’t let him know. Never again will I make that mistake. Never will I allow myself to become weak and vulnerable to someone else.

‘You’re useless without me.’ He said to me. I made sure to ignore his words that still haunt my conscience to this day.

I had finished showing most of the school to Aaron, him following me close behind. I’m not sure why Mr. Harrison chose me to show him around. Maybe it was because I was one of the top students. Or maybe he wanted me to have a friend.

We walked farther into the outside of the school where I was leading Aaron to the PE field. If it was up to me, I wouldn’t show him this place. I despised anything physical. The football field, that was full of misogynistic guys and the locker room that always had naked guys walking around

“Here’s the locker room. You’ll get your locker and code when you have this class and talk to the coach.” I said as we entered the musty locker room. I was hoping that no one would be in here to see me. But luck is never on my side.

“Who let the fag in here?” One of the football players said when we entered the locker room fully. The guy had a towel wrapped around his bottom.

“OH! Quick boys! Hide your dicks! He probably wants to suck them!” Another guy said jokingly. I hid my face down to avoid seeing everyone. I saw a glimpse of Aaron’s hands, and they were balled into fists and clenched them.

I would suck them but I’m allergic to shrimp.

“Yo! Who’s this?” I heard one of them say. I saw George, one of the nicer football players, approach Aaron.

“I’m Aaron. I’m new here.” Aaron said while holding his hand out. George instead gives Aaron a bro-hug while patting his back.

“Ya’know, Aaron, you look like you could be on the team. You gonna try out?” George asked.

“You should, the quarterback position is open right now. Ever played before?” Mack said. I backed away when he came out of one of the isles where he was now fully dressed. I didn’t want him to do anything to me in front of everybody.

“Yeah. I played Q.B.” Aaron said. I wasn’t surprised he played football. He certainly has the body. Not that I was looking at his body or anything. He’s just so tall, I basically see it in front of me.

“Awesome, man! You gotta try out ASAP!” One of the football players said.

“I was actually gonna-” Aaron started saying before he was cut off by one of the jocks.

“Great!” He said. He slung his arm over Aaron’s shoulder. “Come hang out with us for the rest and ditch this loser.” He said while looking down at me. He made me feel like I was insignificant and lower than them. Some of the other jocks laughed while I just took a step back.

“Oh I’m fine. Noah’s been a great guy so far!” Aaron said. He sounded a bit angry. It made me blush a bit to know that he had my back.

“Nonsense, c’mon!” Mack said.

“But I was-” Aaron said before I cut him off.

“It’s fine. Go on. I won’t stop you.” I said. I kinda wanted him to retaliate and stick to his proposal to stay with me.

“If you say so.” He said. Some of the jocks surrounded Aaron and they walked off, them each introducing themselves to Aaron. They laughed and I heard them talk about Aaron’s tall and muscular figure.

Mack turned around and looked me dead in the eyes. He came down lower to meet my eyes directly. My breathing became ragged.

“Hmm. Later, boy.” He said. He ruffled my hair. He gave my left cheek a light slap in a teasing way. He then turned and walked away. I was left there, alone.

I ran into the bathroom and threw up. I hated how I couldn’t stand up to him. I hated how I allowed him to do such things to me. I really am useless. A loser.

I stared at my face in the bathroom mirror. All I saw was a broken boy. A boy who had been through a traumatic trauma that no one knew about. A traumatic event leaving me to be scared and cautious around everyone. For a while, I didn’t trust anyone. I didn’t have anyone. My best friend moved away while I was in hospital. And my parents didn’t know what exactly happened. If I told them, they would never accept me. They would blame me.

Hence why right now I was content. As nice as Aaron was, I didn’t want to befriend him. I didn’t want to be close to anyone for fear of them using my trust against me. The people who we trust the most are the ones who can hurt us the most.

I wasn’t sure why Aaron wanted to hang out with me. I’m just a shy kid. I have nothing to offer to others. No funny stories or jokes. Just, well, me.

And sometimes, being yourself is not enough for others.

---

bye! i love you all!

8. Peeping Tom

Aaron’s POV

I was swept away by my future team mates. That is, if I make the team.

“Aaron, chill. You’ll make the team. You’ve got the figure. And that’s already enough.” Gregory said. Out of all the guys, Gregory was my favorite. He didn’t insult Noah, nor did he talk down about him. It was like he cared for him.

“D’you know anything about that kid I was with?” I asked Greg.

“Oh, yeah. You see, he-” Greg was cut off by a team member, I think his name was Chester.

Who names their kid Chester?

“He’s a loner weird kid and he shouldn’t concern you.” Chester the Cheeto said. I stared at him but he was oblivious of my angry glare.

“Bro, he’s always quiet. Can that fucker just talk? It’s not that hard.” Another piped in. My blood boiled by how they spoke about him. In the short time I knew my tour guide, I knew he had something going on with him. I picked it up by the way he refuses to share personal info and avoids small talk, only talking when necessary.

“Practice starts at 4:30 so be there fifteen minutes early to warm up. Coach Walter will be there to help you with practice.” Greg told me.

“Got it! Anything else I should know?” I asked.

“Yes! In the locker room, stay away from the back lockers. That’s where some of the guys get it on with other chicks. Never wear number 14. Don’t ask why. If you step on that one crack in front of Coach Walter’s office before a game, you give us bad luck.” Greg said in one breath.

“Wow! Didn’t know you guys were the superstitious type.” I laughed.

“Hang on-! Well, yeah. We kinda are. Just follow those rules and you’ll be fine.” Greg patted my back.

It was now lunch time. And here I was, sitting at the middle table where all the other jocks sat. A lot of them had cheerleaders on them kissing them. I looked around me, trying to find someone. While looking around, I saw several girls looking at me. I ignored them, since they couldn’t compete with my tour guide. 

“Hey you!” A cheerleader said. I ignored her. But she didn’t take the hint and sat next to me. I simply just didn’t care for her.

I woould see him throughout the day. Whenver I tried to talk to him, I would be swept away by someone who wanted to meet me. All I wanted was a minute or two, and that would be enough to satisfy me.

After football practice, I was exhausted. I showed my talents and Coach Walter immediately begged me to be on the team. I agreed, causing him to rejoice and cheer. I knew I was good but really he’s over exaggerating.

I was now walking home, and I kept thinking about my tour guide. I wonder what he’s doing right now. Is he at home, or did he stay after school to be in any clubs. His antisocial nature made me come to the conclusion that he’s probably at home.

I wondered why he didn’t want to let anyone in. Why does he shut people out and doesn’t tell them anything? I’ve yet to know his name, but I want to!

Oh God, am I forming a crush on him!

Eh, I don’t care. 

This was my time to see the town and how beautiful it truly was. Pine trees flooded the streets and big colonial houses were sequestered by trees. It gave me a feeling of isolation. Isolation that allowed one to do anything they wanted away from the judgmental looks from the outside world. 

My dad made the right choice moving here. It was a bit difficult to adjust the first night I was here. I was used to the sounds of traffic and city ambience. I woke up several times. It made me wonder why I kept waking up. Then I realized that it was because I missed those noises. I missed how they sounded. The loud clanking sounds that otherwise would’ve been bothersome to some, was a lullaby to me. Before I was able to fall asleep listening to it. Now I miss it.

Funny how sometimes we miss things that we never acknowledge.

I shivered when a cold breeze brushed through me. I hugged my jacket closer to me, wanting more warmth to myself.

I came into view with my house. There it was, in all its glory. I walked faster to get out of the cold.

“Hey, sweetie! How was your first day?” My mom asked. She was by the kitchen cooking dinner. Dad was sitting on the dining table with his sleeves rolled and tie undone. 

“Great!” I said, hoping they wouldn’t ask more.

“Did you try out for football?” My father asked, looking up from his newspaper. He gave me a look that scared me.

“Yeah. I got the quarterback position.” I said. My father gave me an approving nod while mother squealed.

“Dinner’s ready. I made your favorite.” Mother said. She set the plate down while I put my backpack down. What was my favorite food? I’m gatekeeping that.

I ate dinner while I told my mom and dad about school. I mentioned Gregory and how I think we’ll be great friends. My mom smiled, happy that I’m already getting along with new people. I wanted to mention my tour guide and how reserved he was. But I feel like my mom would pester me about him. 

After dinner, I decided to take a shower. I walked into my room and set my backpack on its hanger. I roamed around my room and chose my sleeping clothes. Sweats, tanktop, and briefs. I set them down on my bed so I can change when I walk in.

I finished showering and walked in my room wearing a towel on my waist. I entered my room and looked at myself in the mirror. I flexed my arms and chest and admired myself. 

I got a text from Gregory. I opened it and I paced my room while texting. I stopped at the front of the window and texted for a while. Then I was snapped out of my thoughts, remembering I still needed to change. I looked up and was met with eyes.

Eyes looking at me. Staring at me.

The boy across the house whose window paralleled mine jumped. It wasn’t until I got a look at him that I knew who he was.

My tour guide.

Then I remembered what Mrs. James said about having a kid her age. Then my mind clicked and the gears moved.

This was Noah.

And by the looks of it, he liked what he saw. A blush formed on his face. 

Rather than stick around and watch me change, he ran out of his room, turning off the lights, leaving me alone in surprise.

---

bye! i love you all!

9. Decent Family

Noah’s POV

Ya’know, I don’t care that Aaron left me alone. I don’t need him. I have myself. I’ve had myself for three years. All alone. That’s a good thing. Right?

After I was left all alone in the locker room, I decided to leave and go to the library. It was second period but I was excused for the rest of the day so it wasn’t necessary for me to go back to class. I headed to the library to just use my phone.

The library has been my safe space for the past few years of my school life. Carter and I used to always be here and would joke around. We snuck in snacks and would try to stay quiet. I miss Carter, but he left me. 

I sat in the back corner of the library, near the window that overlooks the quad of our school. I pulled out my phone and scrolled through Twitter and then I played games. 

I must’ve lost track of time because the bell for lunch rang. I was jolted up and saw outside to see the flood of students come out of the buildings and into the quad. People talked with one another and they laughed. 

I was feeling a bit hungry. But I, being the socially anxious person, brought my own lunch. I always ate in the library. The librarian doesn’t mind. I was a responsible kid. So I pulled out my lunch and ate. 

I wonder what Aaron was doing?

Stop it! I don’t care about him. He’s a possible football player. And I’m just, well, me. He’s probably at the cafeteria right now sitting at the center table. He probably already has some bimbo sitting on him. I just want this day to end.

And it eventually did. The rest of the day continued but I had to see Aaron in every class. A few times he tried to come up to talk to me but he was swept away by the football players. I always breathed in relief when he was gone. I had no intention of talking to him. Nor do I want to. We’re simply too different. I was glad to see him already adjusting to life. All throughout the day, I heard many talking about Aaron. They talk about his looks, smile, personality, and that he might be the saying grace for the football team.

It was time to go home. I managed to go through a day avoiding Mack and not talking to Aaron. I know Aaron wouldn’t be walking home right now because of football practice. I walked the fifteen minutes home while wondering if I should disappear.

I didn’t feel like going directly home. So guess where I’ll be heading to instead.

The treehouse.

I gave my dad a simple wave and walked through the backyard. I entered the forest clearing and smelled the pine aroma. This was home. 

Time in the treehouse was used by me doing homework and a bit of reading. Some would say that my activities were boring but it’s better than getting drunk and doing all kinds of drugs. This time, I felt like I wanted to eat dinner at the house with my family. I sent my dad a text that I’ll be joining them. I didn’t want my dad to come all the way here just for me to tell him I won’t be eating with them.

I hopped down the tree and saw the sun was just starting to set. It was going to be a nice walk. The trees provided shade from the sun but allowed some light to come through. 

I walked a few minutes, ambient by the sounds of nothing. Nothing actually does have a sound. I can’t describe it, nor could I even explain how nothing has a sound. It’s one of those things that when you hear, you know. And if you don’t know it, you will when you hear it. It’s a sound I’ve grown to love. 

“Hi Noah. How was school?” Mom asked while she was busy cooking in the kitchen. She didn’t ask anymore, because she knows that if she keeps asking, all she’ll get is short responses. I felt bad. My mom and I used to be best friends. We always hung out and were able to relax. But then after him and the accident, I changed.

And I could tell my mom missed the old me. I simply nodded at her question.

“Go get ready. Dinner’ll be ready in a few minutes.” She said while setting down a casserole dish. I simply nodded and went upstairs. I changed and came back down and sat with my family to eat.

I think I only eat with my family three times a week. It sounds sad, but I honestly prefer me time. I have nothing against them. But I fear that one day I’ll talk too much and reveal the day that changed my life. And I fear their judgements, and my humiliation.

“Noah. Did you meet the neighbor’s son? What was his name, Petey?” Mom asked dad. Dad was reaching over to steal one of mom’s meatballs before he was caught.

“Huh? Oh yes. Aaron, honey.” He said. He ended up stealing the meatball.

“Yes! Aaron. He’s such a sweet boy. I know you said you didn’t want friends. But I think you’ll like him. Did you see him today?” Mom asked me. I looked her in the eyes.

“Yes.” Is all I said before I turned back down and continued eating. Mom knew that I didn’t want to talk more so she stopped asking. Instead she hit dad’s shoulder to stop stealing her food.

Dinner ended and it felt refreshing to talk to my family. Carla told us about her teacher and how close she was today to having a mental breakdown after Carla told her that the Native Americans DID NOT give the colonizers this land for free. Benjohn told us about a girl who has started sharing her Oreos with him. 

These people are actually decent. 

It was bedtime, for my sibling of course. I got allowed to stay up since I never misbehave. I go up the stairs and enter my room, making sure to lock the door behind me.

I layed on my bed and thought back to today. Aaron. He was an interesting fellow. I’m not sure why he kept trying to talk to me. I’m sure he has other friends that he’s made today. And I’m sure soon he’ll start to hurl insults at me and threaten me for no reason.

But maybe, just maybe, we could talk more. My heart was desperately looking for a way to escape my turmoil. It needed someone to pull me out. And my heart is trying to choose Aaron as that person. But I keep telling myself no. That Aaron is different. And I’m broken. No one wants to befriend a broken person. Because that just causes them to start to break trying to fix me.

I got up quickly for no reason. I saw a light shining across the window from mine. I turned and saw something that would’ve killed me right then and there.

Oh. My. God.

There Aaron was, shirtless, his body shining with droplets of water. His body was… amazing. I stared at his muscles, wondering how they felt. He looked like he’d just finish taking a shower. He wore a towel around his waist. I felt my face heat up. I stared at his body for what must’ve been minutes. And then the worst thing happened.

He looked up from his phone and made eye contact with me.

As soon as he saw me, I squealed and got away from the window. I facepalmed myself since I had just exposed myself.

“What the fuck?” I muttered to myself. My face felt really hot.

I groaned when it came to me that Aaron’s room was right next to mine. Which means that now it’ll be much harder to avoid him. Both at school and at home.

I really do have horrible luck, huh?

---

bye! i love you all!

10. Shy Guy

Aaron’s POV

A hard blush (and something else) formed after I quickly made eye contact with Noah.

Noah.

His name rolled easily off my tongue, like I was destined to say it. He looked away when I saw him rather quickly. It was like he was caught with his hand in a cookie jar. I found it rather cute how fast he hid. I feel like he’s probably still there, face palming himself.

I don’t mind him looking. He can look all he wants.

It was now the next morning, and last night’s events continue to play in my head. But then the question popped in my head.

Why did Noah not eat with his family?

I thought back to what Mrs. James said regarding Noah. How he doesn’t eat dinner with them, like any normal family does. The melancholy nature when she mentioned him, made her almost sincerely penitent. Although I feel like she’s out of the loop when it comes to Noah and his mind. They were pretty adamant on me and Noah being friends, until the next day when Mrs. James said it’s better I don’t hang out with Noah.

But she made it clear it’s not me, but Noah.

I walked and saw Noah ahead of me, a few steps away. He had his head down, probably trying to ignore the outside world.

“NOAH!” I screamed, making him jump and become startled. He turned around and made eye contact with me. A look of embarrassment came on his face, and he turned his head and continued walking.

“WAIT- COME BACK!” I said, running after him. He began to speed walk, but it was no use as I reached him. I grabbed his shoulder, making him stop and turn around.

“What?” He said, sounding a bit standoffish. I ignored his tone and tried talking to him.

“How’s your day going?” I asked. He turned around, shrugging off my hand and continued walking. I followed close behind, making sure that he knew I was still here.

“It’s only 7:30.” He said. I giggled at his snarky attitude.

“A lot can happen in a short amount of time.” I said. He tensed up.

The next fifteen minutes consisted of me talking, while Noah pretended I didn’t exist. Key word, ‘pretended’. I knew he was listening because whenever I would crack a joke, he smiled, looking like he was trying to hold it in. He was trying to eschew his happiness, and I wanted to know why.

We arrived to the front of the school. I turned to face Noah, while he tried to get in but I blocked his way.

“Move, wall.” He said. I laughed and he growled lightly at me.

“I wanted to ask what you’re doing for lunch?” I asked.

“I was gonna-” He was cut off by shouting.

“AARON!” My teammates said. I turned around, already feeling a migraine coming based on the sound of their voices. They walked up to me, and I reluctantly gave them all high fives and fist bumps. During this time, Noah was able to slip away, but I only noticed after he had already walked into the school.

“C’mon man! We gotta go.” One of my teammates said. I walked with them and Greg joined me. He was the only one I liked. He and Noah are the only people so far that I can stand. Everyone else is either annoying or horny.

“We got football practice later today. See you there.” Greg said. I nodded in agreement, excited to be able to play and practice with my new teammates.

Throughout the day, I tried to talk to Noah. Since we have every class together, I saw him every hour. And everytime, I tried to sit with him but was swept away by the jocks. I began to get annoyed. Sure I was new and had the best potential on the team. I was quarterback, which is like the most sought after position. But all I wanted to do was sit with Noah.

And everytime I felt like I got a chance to talk to him, I was met with him speed walking away. He was fast, really fast. And when lunch time came, I searched all over the cafeteria to find him. It was useless. And I soon realized that based on Noah, he most likely doesn’t like to eat in an area full of people.

“Dude, are you looking for someone?” Greg asked.

“Yeah, but I don’t see them.” I said, making sure I didn’t reveal the gender of who I was looking for.

“Hey sexy.” A cheerleader said. I recognized the voice as belonging to Olivia, the head cheerleader. Since I’m on the football team, it’s kinda required I date a cheerleader. But let me tell you one thing about these girls.

They all suck.

And Olivia is the worst. She’s been hitting on me the moment I got on the team. And I hated it. I didn’t like it when she touched me seductively. And she would whisper things in my ear, as if it was meant to turn me on. Olivia began to sit next to me, making sure to rub her hands on my arm. I ignored it, and continued to look around.

Lunch ended, and I headed to my next class, and there was Noah, already sitting on his seat while waiting for our teacher to enter. I went to sit next to him, until Olivia grabbed my wrist.

“Sit with me, baby.” She said. I didn’t even know she went to this class. I was focused and looking at Noah, waiting for him to turn around and look at me. Olivia was persistent and I ended up sitting next to her in the back of the class.

The day ended, and no words from Noah. I hoped football practice would take my mind off it. We had our first upcoming game soon. And it would be a great time for me to show off my talents.

I walked home after a good first practice. Coach was really impressed with my talents, assuring that if I keep up the work, we might make it to nationals. But no pressure.

“Ron, how was school?” Mom asked when I entered the house. She wore an apron since she was cooking. Dad was on the dinner table looking over some files.

“How was football?” Father asked.

“It was great.” I said, referring to both their questions.

“Make any friends?” Mom asked while setting the table.

“Yeah. This guy named Greg on the football team. Also Noah from next door.” I said.

“Noah? Interesting.” Mom said. She looked like she knew something that I didn’t.

There was a lot I didn’t know about Noah. And it’s understandable. I’ve known him for two days. And during that time, I caught him looking at me. I saw him blush. And I blushed myself too. There were feelings in me that were starting to grow. And while I was okay with the feelings, I didn’t like that I hadn’t even gotten the chance to know Noah.

I’ll just have to wait how far this’ll go.

---

bye! i love you all!

11. Hogwarts, Bitch

Noah’s POV

The rest of the week went on, and I continued to ignore Aaron. I made sure to walk to school earlier. After school didn’t matter since he had football practice. He did try to talk to me, giving me a simple greeting. I think he knew I didn’t want anything to do with him, so he said little words. I appreciated him looking out for me. 

Made me feel like I mattered to someone.

It was Saturday morning. I had finished all my homework the night before, meaning this whole week was full of nothing. So I guess you know what time it was.

Tree house time!

It was ten in the morning. And I packed my backpack with books and snacks. I headed out, giving Carla a goodmorning and my mom a wave. I walked into the woods and continued the path. I felt off during the walk. Almost like someone was following me.

I arrived at my treehouse, my second home. I reached the base and climbed onto the slowly decaying woods. The planks creaked when I put my foot on it. Looks like it’s almost time to replace them.

I entered the home, and immediately laid on the bed. The soft mattress made me want to fall asleep. I pulled out a book and began reading. I scanned the pages, engrossing every word into my brain.

Minutes in, I had finished a bag of chips, finished three chapters of a book, and came up with an idea of printing more money without making it worth less. 

Solution: just don’t decrease its value!

I was jolted when I heard the wood plank creak. I looked at the trap door opening, feeling like someone was on the other side. I grabbed a pair of scissors nearby and held them out as a weapon.

The trap door opened. 

“SO YOU’VE CHOSEN DEATH!” I said lunging forward.

“Woah! Slow down!” Aaron said. I stopped lunging and saw him with an amazed smile. I immediately backed away, hiding the scissors and feeling embarrassed.

“What are you doing here?” I asked Aaron while he lifted himself to get into MY treehouse. He got in and sat on one of the bean bag chairs on the wall.

“I followed you.” He simply said.

“What? Why? Are you stalking me?” I said, feeling my fingers grasp the scissors harder.

“I guess. Just wanted to see what a kid like you does on the weekends.” He said.

“Kid like me?”

“Yeah. Ya’know? Quiet and…”

“And?”

“Nothing.” He decided not to finish. “So, what is this place?” He stood up and walked around. 

“Hogwarts, bitch.” I said, sounding annoyed that he dared to bother me.

“Calm down! Hey, why do you have scissors?” He asked.

“To cut off your foreskin if you don’t stop bothering me!” I snapped.

I layed back down on my bed, choosing to ignore his existence. I closed my eyes and layed like I was dead in a coffin. I felt him moving around my room. Then I felt him close to me. I opened my eyes and saw he was sitting down next to the bed, next to MY FACE.

“You have really nice lashes.” He said, looking like he was admiring my features. I turned away, facing away from him.

“Whatever. Why are you here?”

“Just wanted to hang out.” 

“Don’t you have your football friends to hang out with?” He smiled at me.

“Yeah. But I’d rather get to know you.” To say I was blushing was an understatement. I had to put my face in my pillow to hide myself. He chuckled.

“So, tell me about yourself, Noah.” He laid his head on his hands which were on the edge of my bed. He looked intensely at me.

“What do you want to know?”

“Everything.” 

And that’s how the rest of the day was spent. I told Aaron small details about me. Some vague, some specific. But in the back of my mind, I keep telling myself one thing.

‘Don’t get too close. Remember last time. He’s going to hurt you.’

And while I wanted to ignore it, it’s hard to forget your mistakes. And the cause of what led you to it. If Aaron wants to be friends, then so be it. But that’s it.

“Noah, I wanted to know if- oh hello Aaron.” Dad had opened the trap door and poked his head in. He didn’t expect me to have company. Therefore his shocked choice of words. I saw a smile fall on his face. He looked excited, probably because I’m hanging out with someone besides myself.

“Hello Mr. James.” Aaron gave a respectful wave.

“Aaron! Great to see you. Lunch is ready boys. Come and eat before Ben and Carla eat everything.” Dad said. We said ‘okay’ unanimously. 

“We should go.” I said, gesturing to the trap door that my dad left open. Aaron stared at me for a while, and I just stood there awkwardly. We looked at each other, slowly feeling ourselves split away from reality and transported into a different world. 

“No, I want to stay here. I never want to leave.” He said. He blushed, but I think it was because it was cold.

We stared at each other for a while. I felt uncomfortable, but comfortable at the same time. But then we split apart when a gust of wind blew in and made us shiver.

“C’mon. We should go before Carla comes here and kills us.” I said, earning a laugh from Aaron.

We hopped down, making our way to my house. During our walk, Aaron and my hands would brush against each other. The places he touched left tingles on my skin. I would occasionally look at him, only to find him aweing at me. And when I looked at him, I would turn away. It was completely silent, with no noise but that of the birds. And I chose to leave it at that. 

‘Don’t get too close. The closer you are, the more it’ll hurt.’

---

bye! i love you all!

12. Warning

Aaron’s POV

Hanging out with Noah was a breath of fresh air. I’m not gonna lie and say I wasn’t stalking him. I was just having breakfast when I saw him with his bag walking into the forest. I followed him, saw his treehouse, and the rest is history.

And I was glad I went in there. I found information about Noah that I would’ve never guessed. 

That being said, why did he come here? Did he use this place as an escape from reality? Why was he distant from his family? Why did his dad look happy when he saw his son with another person? All these questions pondered me. There was something up with this.

I was currently walking with Noah to school. He finally stopped walking away from me.

“Hey, why is it that whenever Mack is nearby, you tense up?” I asked Noah.

“Oh, it’s nothing.” He looked nervous. Definitely wasn’t nothing.

“C’mon, you can tell me anything.” 

“Fine. Promise not to say anything.” I crossed my heart. “Mack tends to be very… flirty with me. But not in a good way. He finds ways to bother me. And I can’t say anything because then he’ll spread rumors about me. I just want him to leave me alone.” Noah finished. He cowered after he finished speaking, looking like he was ashamed.

“Oh. I’m sorry. I didn’t know. I thought maybe you liked him.” He laughed, actually laughed.

“Hell no! I’m not into straight guys who act gay.” He said. For some reason I felt relieved.

When we approached the school, I was once again swept away by my teammates. I gave a wave to Noah, and he waved at me. Every time I saw him, I made sure to give him the biggest smile I could.

We were in the locker room, getting ready for football practice. Everyone was outside and it was just me and Mack. I know I promised to say anything, but I can’t let it go.

“Mack. Can I talk to you for a second?” I said, turning to him while he put his helmet on.

“Sure.” He turned to me.

“Could you lay off Noah. I know you bother him. But I would appreciate it if you left him alone.” I said, hoping he wouldn’t get mad.

“Sure.” He said. I was a bit shocked. I kinda hoped he would put up a fight. 

“Great. Thanks!” I began to walk out until he grabbed my wrists.

“Aaron. I know you’re friends with him. I just want to warn you. He’s delicate.” I questioned what he meant.

“What’d you mean?”

“I mean, a few years ago, he tried to kill himself. He had a cast on and to cover up his attempt. It was the summer before ninth grade. I found out about it, and he went crazy. I had to calm him down and he exposed himself. Since then, I’ve tried to keep him from hurting himself. Just know that he’s clingy.” He finished. He then let go of my wrist and walked out of the locker room.

Bullshit.

I know he’s making all that up. Noah told me Mack messes with him. And I trust Noah more than some guy who in the past week has been nothing but a stuck up asshole.

But needless to say, I wondered how far that rumor was. Is there some truth to it? Is it fabricated? Or could it be the whole truth?

Practice went on normally. Coach was putting more pressure on us because we had our first game coming soon. It was in a few weeks, but even then we had to put our best effort now! I was nervous, but I know I got this!

I returned home, and rather than enter my house, I went to the treehouse. Since my first visit, I felt like the treehouse was like a portal to a dimension that was made just for me and Noah. Like we could be ourselves.

But I didn’t want that confined to one space. Which is why I would be asking Noah a question today.

Rather than knock on the trap door like a normal person, I bursted the door open and walked in like I was also living there. And I was met with a startled Noah who was on his bed reading a book. His legs were bare, and I found my eyes trailing them. I snapped my head out of my trance and looked at him.

“JESUS AARON! What if I was jerking off?” He said, setting his book aside

“You’re too innocent for that.” I said. He had a mischievous grin on his face.

“So, how was practice?” He asked. I know he didn’t care about football, but I felt like I could talk about the dictionary and he would listen to every word.

“Great. We have our first game in a few weeks. So practice has been harder.” I said, laying down on the bed. He scooted over, while I tried not to look at his legs.

“Ooo, sounds fun.” He said sarcastically. 

It went quiet for a while. I didn’t mind it. I folded my arms to the back of my head. My elbow brushed on Noah’s legs.

“Can I ask you something?” I asked

“Sure, anything.” He said. It was only two letters, but he was already warming up to me. That ‘anything’ to me was a symbol that he would do anything for me. And I really liked that.

“Wanna hang out with me outside the treehouse?” I asked. No, I wasn’t gonna ask him out.

Not yet, I hope.

“Umm, I don’t know. Going out isn’t my thing.” He said. 

“Oh come on you agoraphobe. It won’t be that bad. I’m sure it’ll be fine.” I said.

He thought about it for a while. And in that time, I held my breath.

“I’ll buy you food.” I said.

“I’m in!” He said fast.

I remembered what Mack told me. It didn’t want to ask him. Not now. Maybe in the future. But as of right now, I want to earn Noah’s trust. It doesn’t feel right for me to pester him about a false rumor when we’ve barely met. 

“Hey look! This spoiled apple reminds me of you!” He said, holding up indeed, a spoiled apple. I laughed and he laughed too. I saw his face light up at the fact that he has someone to talk to. He looked happy. Much different than the Noah I first met in the office.

“Noah, you bitch!” I said as I threw a pillow at him.

“You’re gonna regret that.” And I did.

---

bye! i love you all!

13. Red Star Diner

Noah’s POV

To say I was nervous was an understatement. This was my first time since Carter that I would hang with someone else. I was always alone, and didn’t bother to hang out with anyone. Not since… that summer.

So what made Aaron different? How does a football player come to a random town and is able to make a quiet shy kid come out of his shell.

I fixed my clothes, wearing jeans and a blue hoodie. Nothing special.

“Mom. Dad. I’m heading out.” I said to them while they sat on the living room couch. They jolted up quickly. I guess they never expected me to say those words again.

“With who?” Dad asked, a smile playing on his lips.

“Umm, Aaron.” I said. Mom and dad looked at each other. Dad then pulled out his wallet and gave a hundred dollar bill. He nodded and I took it. After a few moments of silence, I walked towards the door.

“I’m gonna go… see you guys later.” I said. Mom waved goodbye and dad waved. After I exited the door and closed it, I heard mom and dad cheering.

I walked onto the steps and saw Aaron standing on the sidewalk, waiting for me. I saw his outfit, entranced by what he wore. A black long sleeve, dark denim jeans, and white Air Forces. His long sleeve clung onto his body tightly, and I blushed remembering I saw him shirtless once. He stood there with his hands in his pockets, while I continued walking. I was staring too long so I looked down, fixing my posture. I wanted to seem less awkward, so I added a little ‘swagger’ into my steps. 

Then I tripped.

I landed onto the grass, face first. I felt humiliated, refusing to look up. I heard Aaron laughing and could hear the crunching of leaves get closer.

“A-Are you okay-y, Noah?” He said, trying to stop himself from laughing. I held up a thumbs-up, not wanting to look at him. He grabbed my wrist, sending shocks all over me.

“C’mon, man. Up we go.” He said while tugging me up. I lifted myself up, and was met face to face with Aaron. I was looking up at him, and he was looking down at me. 

“We should get going.” I said, and he pulled away. He started walking while I made sure to dust off my jeans. His large legs made him walk faster, and I basically had to run to catch up to him. Damn you, tall people!

“Where are we going?” I asked once I was side-by-side with Aaron.

“I heard there’s a diner down the street. Wanted to check it out with you.” He said. I recalled that diner. Had fun memories with my family when we always went out to eat. That was before…

“Yeah! Red Star Diner! Love that place!” I said, happy that I was going to be able to visit that place again. Aaron turned and looked at me with enthusiasm.

After a few minutes of walking, the diner started to become visible. The diner was located in the area that mixes the woodsy area to the downtown area of our town, which was littered with smaller shops. The Red Star Diner was noticeable by the giant red star neon sign that at night illuminates the surrounding area.

“Wow! This place looks awesome!” Aaron said, slightly jumping. I couldn’t stop myself from smiling.

“Yeah. They haven’t renovated since 1953. Everytime they want to change it, everyone convinces the owners to leave it. It’s a popular attraction.” I said, trying to remember the vintage Americana aesthetic. 

“Sounds awesome! Let’s go in!” Aaron began to walk fast to the front door. It took me a second to register him leaving already and began running to catch up. The inside of the diner was the same as how I remember it. Booths, a bar, red and white checkered tiles.

“Hi there! Welcome to Red Star Diner. How many in your party?” A woman asked Aaron. The woman blushed at the sight of Aaron. I rolled my eyes. 

“Two please!” Aaron said, unaware of the looks the woman was giving him. The woman led us to a booth located near the window. It was pretty empty today, since it was pretty cold outside. 

“What would you boys like to order?” The woman said, while we scanned through the menu.

“I’ll have the double-cheeseburger, fries, vanilla milkshake, and…” I pointed to Aaron, who most likely didn’t know what to get because it was his first time here.

“I’ll have the same, please?” Aaron smiled at the waiter with a smile that I’ve fallen before.

“Please? Since when did you become a gentleman?” I asked as soon as the woman walked away. 

“I grew up in New York.” He said while playing with the sugar packets on the table.

“Still doesn’t make sense, but ‘kay.” I said. There fell another awkward silence. Aaron looked like he wanted to say something but was afraid to. He bit his lip, solidifying my theory that he’s nervous. 

After 10 minutes, our food arrived. I was hit with a smell that brought back memories. Good memories. I guess Aaron was tired of the silence so he began speaking.

“Ya’know, in New York, we never had places like this. All we had were 5-Star restaurants and pizza shops.”

“Do you miss New York?” 

“Of course! I’ve called my friends a few times. They’re doing pretty good.” He said, taking a bite out of his burger.

“And what about you? How are you enjoying Crestwood?” I asked, eating a fry.

“I like it! I have football, Greg, and you.” He said, making me choke on my milkshake. I started coughing aggressively, no doubt getting all the diner patron’s attention on us.

“I-I didn’t mean it like that! I meant that you’re the only other person besides Greg who doesn’t annoy me or try to hook up with me.” He said, rubbing his neck and making his ears pink.

I didn’t say anything after that. I told him it was okay. Aaron went on, rambling about New York, football, and his old friends. I didn’t mind him talking. It was better than eating in awkward silence. Whenever he would ramble, I would steal a few of his fries. I hope he didn’t notice.

“Speaking of football, my first game is coming up.” Aaron tried to allude to something but I didn’t catch on. I knew the football game was coming up, but I never dared go. Too much… socializing.

“Uh huh…”

“I wanted to know if you could come and watch me play.” He sounded nervous. How sweet! 

“I-I don’t know. There’s just, a lot of people and-” 

“Noah, please? For me.”  He said, smiling at me.

“The least you can do for stealing my fries.” He added.

“Fine. I’ll go.” I said.

Guess I’m going to my first football game.

---

name of the town is called crestwood. i know it’s basic.

bye! i love you all!

14. High School Party

Aaron’s POV

The football game is in a few days, and the team has the genius idea of throwing a party beforehand. Instead of practicing, they’d rather get wasted. Cool.

I had sent Noah a text, letting him know that there was gonna be a party and he was invited. After our hang out, we went home. Since then, every night, we both look out the window and say goodnight to each other. 

“AARON! What time you coming?” Greg asked me after football practice. Crestview High was going to be playing against George Washington High. They were another high school located at least thirty minutes outside our town.

“Probably at nine.” I said, taking off my helmet.

“Olivia’s been trying to make a move on you. Why don’t you date her?” Greg asked as I mentally gagged at the thought of dating her.

“Nah, man. She ain’t my type.” I said.

“Well, what is your type?” He asked. I thought about it. Short, nerdy, shy, brown hair, wide eyes. 

“Don’t know.” I shrugged.

The time for the party arrived. It was hosted at a fellow teammate’s home, just a few minutes away from the campus. I arrived and was cheered by the student body whose majority was already drunk. 

“AARON! AARON! AARON!” People chant while I make my way into the kitchen. I was greeted by Greg and Mack who gave me a drink. Rather than chug it down, I sipped on it slowly. It took me a good five minutes before I was done with it.

“Aaron. I’m so happy you’re here.” Olivia said, pulling up behind me and sliding her hand on my shoulder.

“Mhm, yeah. ‘Scuse me.” I said, brushing her hand off me. Despite the hundreds of students here, there was only one person I had my eyes on. One person who could make this party much better. Noah.

I avoided Olivia at all costs. I made sure I stayed outside the house, where it was cold and chilly. All I did was wait for Noah. I texted him if he was coming and he said yes. I didn’t want to text him more but felt like that would’ve been too much and I might have weird him out.

“Aaron, babe. C’mon and join me.” Olivia said, drinking from a beer can. 

“No, Olivia. I’m waiting for someone.” I said, walking away. I could hear the sound of her heels clacking.

“Awh, boohoo. Just leave that slut and join me instead.” She said, sounding hypocritical.

I ignored her and made my way into the house. I crouched, entering the pool of kids and lost her in the process. After I knew she was gone, I climbed up the stairs to find an empty room. Many of the rooms were locked, and I had the unfortunate incident of seeing what was behind the unlocked doors.

Finally, I found an empty room, which was dark and looked cozy. I entered it and closed the door behind me. I plopped myself onto the bed and laid there, trying to think of why Noah was always in my head. I don’t think I like him. Sure I like to laugh with him. And walk with him. And say goodnight to him every night. And I want to hang out with him all the time.

But that doesn’t mean anything.

My thoughts were pushed away when I heard the sound of the door opening. I thought it was Noah and perked myself up. But nope, it was Olivia.

Why does this bitch keep following me?

“Olivia?”

“Aaron. There you are. I’ve been looking all over for you.” She said, and I groaned. She closed the door behind her and entered the room. She sat on the bed and I scooted away. 

“Olivia, I don’t want to-” I was cut off when she kissed me. But it wasn’t a good kiss. It felt forced, because it was. It was rough and bitter and disgusting.

“OLIVIA WHAT THE FUCK?!” I said, pushing her away from me. She simply glared at me and grabbed my wrists hard.

“I know you want this! All football players want me. You should be grateful I’m choosing you!” She said, getting closer again.

I didn’t want to push her off because I didn’t want to hurt her. But I kept hoping she would see that I didn’t want to hook up. She got on my lap and began kissing my neck. 

“Olivia-” The door opened suddenly.

“A-Aaron?” A soft voice said. I turned and saw Noah, wide-eyed, looking at me with hurt on his face.

“Scram, fag. Can’t you see we’re busy!” Olivia said, making me glare at her for talking to Noah that way. 

“Aaron?” He said, looking at me as if he wanted me to explain what was going on.

“Noah, I-”

“Kid, leave us already!” Olivia spat at Noah.

Rather than say anything, Noah walked away quickly, not closing the door. I pulled Olivia off me and ran after him.

“AARON!” She screamed but I ignored her. I ran down the stairs but all I saw was dancing people grouped in the living room. I searched around and didn’t see him.

“Greg! Have you seen Noah?” I asked him as he chugged a beer.

“Noah? Shoot! Didn’t know he came to these things. No I haven’t.” He said, which made me push past him.

I exited the house, and screamed his name but was met with no response. I looked around, huffing in frustration as the cold air blew a white cloud out of my mouth.

I wasn’t sure why I was so angry at myself. I wasn’t sure why I allowed myself to let Olivia take it too far. A feeling of guilt took over me, making me worry more about Noah. Was he feeling worse? Did he also blame himself? In the short time I’ve known Noah, he’s a very emotionless kid on the outside but I knew that on the inside he was full of… thoughts. And what those thoughts were puzzled me. What happened to him long ago that made Noah the way he was. 

Were the rumors true. Did he actually try to kill himself? Was he hurting himself?

---

bye! i love you all!

15. Dark Memories

Noah’s POV

I don’t know how it happens. I just, I don’t understand it. How can someone be so manipulative, irresponsible, and downright a psychopathic liar.

Carla was able to convince Ben that if he ate dirt he would get super powers.

I was supposed to be leaving to go to the football party Aaron had invited me to. Instead, I was here washing dirt out of Ben’s mouth while Carla watched Paw Patrol. She has no regrets.

After finally settling everyone down, I was able to leave to go to the party. The house was 20 minutes away, not that far. I would go by car, but I despise driving. Never again!

The walk was cold and lonely. Aaron had gone earlier since, if you forgot, he was on the football team. But he did send me a text if I was coming. I’d responded yes. Haven’t heard from him in a while , but I was still going to show up. This was my first highschool party. I’ve never been to one before cause no one ever cared enough to remember me. 

I began to hear loud music blasting in the distance. Some type of rap music was blasting. As I got closer, I could hear the drunken laughter of students. The house came into view. All the windows were bright with colors and the windows and doors were flooded with people.

I entered the house, careful not to trip on anyone. The smell of booze and sex flooded my nose, making me internally gag.

“Noah?” I turned and saw Mack standing there. He was obviously drunk. He stammered his way over to me, making me scared for what he was going to do to me.

“M-Mack.” I said, sounding scared.

“Relax mmman, I ain’t gonnna doo nothin to you.” His drunk voice makes me cringe. I leaned away, and he kept to his word and walked away. I spent a few minutes walking around the house. Checking to see if Aaron was anywhere. 

After not finding him, I resorted to shying away from everyone. Maybe I’ll find him later. For now, I wanted to settle down in an empty room. I climbed the stairs and made my way to the second floor. I skipped the rooms nearest and walked further into the hall to avoid accidentally walking in on someone.

What I witnessed made my stomach turn. And with it, I felt hurt. There was Aaron making out with Olivia. I ran away, ignoring the calls from Aaron. I rushed out of the house, continuing to run and not looking back.

The woods.

I always feel safe in the woods, so I ran into them despite it being nearing the middle of the night. I ran into them, not caring that I couldn’t even see where I was running to. 

My mind was going 100 miles per hour, and I couldn’t think straight. So I walked, more like I ran, for a few minutes. The hurtful words Olivia said echoed in my head. But I didn’t care about what Olivia said, but rather what Aaron was doing. It shouldn’t hurt me, but it did.

I slowed my walking, and began thinking if I may have jumped to conclusions. Maybe Aaron didn’t even want to make out with her. Olivia can be persistent. 

My walking when I saw the shiny pebbles on the floor reflected a bright yellow light. 

Oh no.

I looked up and saw a sign I haven’t seen in three years. A place that was the opposite of my treehouse. This place was full of nothing but dark memories. The one that I never want to remember about. But your worst memories are the ones you remember vividly.

‘Seasonal Inn: Open 24 Hours, Free Wi-Fi’

This damn motel. A place I used to work at. All before it went south. All thanks to him .

“Hi, I’m Chase.” His voice rang in my head. I remember that moment vividly. I wish I could’ve told myself to ignore him. Or at the very least ignored his moves.

I walked past the motel, ignoring its entirety as if it wasn’t there. But it was. 

“Come hang out with me later. What time do you get off?” 

NO NO NO NO NO NO!

I closed my ears, but his voice wasn’t external. It was in my head. 

He was the worst thing to happen to me. 

My phone began vibrating. I checked and it was a call from Aaron. I didn’t feel like talking to him. It wasn’t his fault. I just don’t feel like speaking to him.

“You’re amazing, Noah!” Lies. All lies. He didn’t care about me. He used me. He hurt me. He scarred me.

Tears brimmed my eyes, and I wiped them away with my arm. But the sobs came more. I couldn’t stop them. I sniffled and shivered thanks to the cold.

I wasn’t even sure why I was mad at Aaron. 

I guess it was because I thought he would be different. The last time I opened up to someone, I was used. And broken. Then abandoned. And still to this day, I’m still trying to put the pieces together. 

Then Aaron comes along and I open up to him. I could tell my parents are so proud that I have a friend. And if I’m being honest, I may have a crush on him. Afterall, he basically saved me.

So the moment I saw him kissing someone, it broke my heart. He would never date me. It’s a one-sided love. But it hurt. 

Thus the reason all these memories popped into my head. And opening a wound I wished would heal.

But Aaron has no fault. How is he supposed to know that I have a crush on him?

He won’t.

And I plan on never telling him.

So now I’ve come to the conclusion that it’s not his fault. I’m just… broken. And I’ll never be fixed. I should probably apologize to Aaron for running out like that. I must have worried him. 

I checked my phone. It was about 4:00 am. 4:00 am?!?

What the fuck have I been doing for the past six hours?

I guess it was time to go home.

I feel a large amount of regret. And I for one can’t imagine what my life would be if the accident never happened, and if everything would be different, and if maybe my family would be happier or if I would have more friends.

---

bye! i love you all! (really, i do!)

16. Apologies

Aaron’s POV

I spent a few hours looking for Noah. And nothing happened. I called him a few times, but he never answered. Either he’s dead or he’s ignoring me.

I felt guilty. It was like I was just caught cheating.

I went home, and I made sure to tell Mrs. James that Noah ran out. She simply told me that Noah is most likely fine but will make sure he comes home.

The next day passed and I was getting frustrated. I needed to go talk to Noah. It was the morning. Thank God I didn’t drink too much, otherwise my hangover would’ve been worse. I went outside, and knew where Noah would be.

I entered the woods, smelling the pine and dew from the cold morning. I walked a few minutes, and came upon it. 

I opened the trapdoor and saw Noah passed out on the bed. Judging from the clothes he still wore from last night, I’m guessing he didn’t go home. He most likely just came here and stayed the night.

I was able to get a good look at his outfit. He looked… amazing. His outfit consisted of tight black jeans, a navy blue button up, and black boots. I admired him. He was beautiful. 

“Aaron?” He said, waking up. 

Oh shit.

“What’re you doing here?” He seems to always ask that when I come to his treehouse.

“Well, I mean, you did sort of run away from me last night.” I said, sitting on his bed next to him.

“Right. Umm…” He looked ashamed.

“Hey, listen dude. It’s fine. I’m sorry.”

“No! I’m sorry. I shouldn’t have run out like that. You did nothing wrong. I don’t even know why I was mad. So, I’m sorry, Aaron.” He said, looking at me deep in my eyes. His brown eyes expanded while looking at me.

“I just figured you should know that I didn’t want to make out with Olivia. I kept telling her I didn’t want to kiss her. Then that’s when you walked in.” I said.

“Oh, well, good to know.” He sighed, almost sounding relieved.

“So, what do you want to do today?” I asked.

“Can we just, lay here? Forget everything exists.” He layed back in his bed and I giggled.

“Sure. Scoot over.” I said as he moved. I layed next to him and our hands touched.

We laid for a few moments. The sound of birds chirping was the only sound we heard. My breathing matched with Noah’s. 

“Still, I’m sorry.”

“I know, Noah.”

“I was overreacting. I just don’t want to lose you.” He said. I turned to him and faced the side of his face.

“Noah, it’s fine. I’m not going anywhere.” I said. He turned away, and blushed.

I layed with him next to me. If he wanted to continue apologizing, then I’m fine with that. If it makes him feel better.

“Noah?”

“Hmm.”

“So my first football game is soon. And since the only other friend I have is Greg, who will also be playing alongside me, I basically have no moral support.”

“I don’t know where you’re going with this.” He said.

“I was wondering if you’ll go to the football game. For my sake.” I said, hiding my nerves.

“Sure.”

“Great! I’ll need you to sit in the front by the way.” I said.

“Oh, um. Sure. Alright.” He said blushing, which stirred something in my stomach.

The rest of the day was nothing short of fun. Noah showed off his intellectual knowledge regarding literature. He read excerpts from classics like The Rime of an Ancient Mariner, The Monkey’s Paw, A Doll’s House, and Frankenstein. I was engrossed. He read the words smoothly, like the words on the page were companions of his that remained with him during times that most likely he had no one with.

“Well. I guess this is goodnight, Noah.” I said after we had just walked back to our homes.

“Goodnight, Aaron. Talk to you later.” He said, sounding sure of himself.

We parted ways, and the feelings being with Noah intensified when I thought of him more. Even though he was a few meters away, I just kept thinking of him, missing his company. I wish he was here. Laying in bed with me while he continues rambling on that Banquo deserved better.

---

bye! i love you all!

17. Football Game

Noah’s POV

PLAY BALL!

Is that what they say at football games? I don’t know nor do I care to know? Honestly, I didn’t plan on attending the football game. Every year, I never attended because it was never my place. But there was one reason why I was going today.

Aaron.

He’d ask me to come and I was fine with it. It was like he gave me a sense of courage that I haven’t had since I met…

…NO! I refuse to mention it.

“Sweetie. Where’re you going?” My mom asked. She had just finished washing the dishes and preparing for dinner. My dad looked at my outfit, seeing that I was dressed like I was going out.

“To the football game! It’s the first game of the season!” I said cheerily.

“The football game? Since when did you care about sports?” Carla said.

“Nunya business!” I said, smacking her head.

“Jerk!” She retaliated.

“Shorty!” I said.

“Tree hugger!” She shouted.

“Enough! But Carla has a point. Since when did you go to football games?” Mom asked. I blushed and scratched the back of my head.

“Aaron asked me to come.” I said. I saw my mom perk up and my dad raise an eyebrow like what I said was strange.

“Good. That’s… good. You’ve been really close with Aaron. I’m proud of you, Noah.” Mom said, hugging me. I think I saw some tears forming in her eyes. I think she was… happy for me?

“Thanks…? I gotta go mom. The game’s starting soon.” I said. Mom pulled me away and kissed my forehead. 

“I’m so proud of you, baby.” Mom said. 

“Okay then. I’ll be back soon!” I said. I walked out of the house and felt like I achieved something for once in my life. Thinking about it, I’m pretty sure my mom is happy because her difficult son who’s been absent from society is now participating in it like normal. A bit of me enjoys this new version of myself. 

And it’s all because of Aaron.

I arrived at the school and saw the stadium almost full. I looked around and saw the front of the bleachers and saw an empty space that had my name on it. I may have blushed. I thought Aaron inviting me was maybe a joke and he didn’t want me here. But there is a spot with my name on it colored in forest green writing. I went towards it and sat down on the cold seats which made me shiver.

The game was about to begin and the cheerleaders had just finished performing, though I didn’t pay attention to them. I was looking towards the locker room and waiting for Aaron to pop out. The announcements began and the names of everyone was being announced. 

“And now, ladies and gentlemen, prepare for our newest member and quarterback, AARON STEVENS!” The announcer said. The bleachers cheered at our newest addition to the team. 

In walked Aaron in all his glory. His uniform was blue and white, and his body. THAT BODY! It was amazing. I couldn’t keep my eyes away from him. He mesmerized me with his ethereal and prodigious self. He lit up the whole stadium with one smile. His eyes scanned the crowd as if he was searching for someone.

His eyes scanned until he found mines. If it was possible, his smile got wider. He waved at me and I gave a small wave back. What he did next shocked me.

He blew a kiss at me.

I blushed hard and pretended to catch that kiss.

“Who was that kiss for?”

“Damn, Aaron already got a girl?”

“Olivia must be pissed it wasn’t her.”

I heard several people around me say. But little do they know that kiss was for me. Was it a sign of affection? I have no idea. Maybe it was a sort of joke. But why was it only at me? I knew I had begun to form a small crush on Aaron. But I suppressed those feelings. And I would never tell him. But if I would, I would make sure it didn’t go too far. 

Because he hurt me. 

As the game went on, I got to see Aaron in action. He was no tyro on the field. He was an expert. His movements were precise and skilled. It’s like he can statistically plan ahead his opponents move and figure out what to do. And everytime he would score, he would look at me and cheer. Like he wanted us to share his achievements. 

Maybe I’m overthinking, but Aaron probably invited me because he wanted me to see how amazing he was. I’ve shown him my comfortable place, the tree house, so I’m guessing the field is his. And my heart fluttered at the thought of that. That he felt comfortable to personally invite me to see him. When he looked at me, it was a special connection that he had with no one else. Everyone here was here to see him, but he was here to see me.

The game had finished and no surprise, our school won. Talks of Aaron’s skills were nothing but positive and I heard some sounding optimistic that Aaron would take our school to the championships. Who knows, maybe Aaron could become a professional player if he worked hard enough.

I just hope he remembers me.

I decided not to stick around. Instead, I texted Aaron to meet me in the treehouse. Even though it was almost 10:00 pm, I wanted to celebrate with Aaron privately. 

I reached the treehouse and sat on my bed. It felt empty, like this place was missing something. Or someone. 

‘Imagine what everyone would say if they found out you were a slut!’

‘It’s just a blowjob. It won’t hurt you.’

‘Do it for me. You love me, right?!’

‘After everything I gave you, it’s the least you can do!’

His voice echoed in my head. His words were still so vivid, like it happened yesterday. But it was three years ago. And I couldn’t take it.

I really let that happen to me. I allowed someone like him to take control of me and I did nothing. I started sobbing and pulled my pillow to my face. I had so much anger and sadness in my I needed to let it out before I hurt myself.

“FUCK YOU, CHASE!”

---

bye! i love you all!

18. Who Is Chase?

Aaron’s POV

Well, we won!

Honestly this victory was an amazing feeling. I finally got to show this town my abilities and for sure no one will doubt me. But what made this victory better was that I got to show Noah. 

During the game, I would glance at Noah. When I made a touchdown, I would look at him to see him smiling too. 

‘This is for you!’ I would mentally say. I even blew him a kiss at the beginning of the game. Secretly, I hoped that he would understand that my kiss was more than platonic. 

“Good job, baby.” Olivia said after I had won the game. I checked my phone and saw a text message from Noah to meet him at the treehouse. My mood was now chipper, and all I wanted to do was go home and meet him.

“Why don’t you come to my house and we can celebrate. We didn’t get to finish last time.” Olivia said in a failing-seductive tone.

“No thanks. I gotta meet with someone.” I said to her while turning away and entering the locker room. I was met with cheers from my teammates who were proud that we won. 

“Great game, boys.” Coach said. He patted my back as I headed to my locker. There I grabbed all my stuff and went to take a shower.

“Good game, man.” Greg said while we were in the shower. I turned to him and chuckled. 

“Thanks. Went better than expected.” I said while cleaning my arms.

“For sure. What d’you plan on doing after?” Greg asked.

“Gonna go hang out with Noah.” I said.

“Noah? He was here?” Greg sounded shocked.

“Yeah. I invited him.”

“And he came?”

“Umm… yeah.” I said.

“Wow. I just… Noah is never the type to show up to these things. You two must be really close, huh?” 

“Yeah. We’re close.”

“That’s great man. Noah is a great guy but he can be really closed off. It’s nice to see him coming out.” Greg finished showering and left while I just stood there thinking about Noah. I am pretty close to him. And I like him, alot! And so I’m wondering if I want to be friends or more with Noah. He’s a great guy, and I would date him. He’s amazing. 

After I was done showering, I exited and changed into some sweats and a tank top. I decided to walk home because the adrenaline in my blood has yet to recede and so I have all this energy. 

I arrived home and entered.

“Great game, Aaron. Way a great start to the season!” Dad said while patting my back. I completely forgot that my parents were at the game. I guess my mind was occupied with… someone else.

“Will you be staying for dinner?” Mom asked me.

“Uh, no. I’m gonna be heading out.” I said. They nodded and I left for my room to drop off my stuff. I walked through the dark forest while shining my flashlight. It was pretty dark and I heard an owl which made my heart beat faster. 

The path, which was eroding after the few years of Noah walking through, was paved and thus I simply had to follow the trail. 

Why the treehouse?

Why stray away from everyone rather than talk to them? And was the rumor that Noah tried to kill himself true? It was a rumor. But sometimes rumors have truths in them. Which worried me. I’ve known Noah for a few weeks and he’s always happy around me. But he’s also quiet, on his own terms. 

I arrived at the treehouse and saw the lights turned on. I smiled but my smile fell when I heard shouting as clear as day.

“FUCK YOU, CHASE! FUCK!” I heard Noah yell. His yelling voice scared me. I have NEVER heard Noah raise his voice. This sounded different. His voice was hurt. It sounded hurt like he had imense pain. 

My instincts kicked in and I quickly climbed the ladder to reach the top. I opened the trapdoor and saw Noah balled on his bed, crying his eyes out.

“Noah?” I said, sounding concerned.

“Hey, Noah! Are you okay?” I said, getting closer to him but moving slowly. I had no idea what he was going through but it obviously wasn’t good.

“A-Aaron?” His voice quivered. It pained me to see him like this. His eyes were red and his pillow was covered in tears. 

“Please don’t look at me right now!” He said. He turned away and looked at the wall so I didn’t see him.

“Noah. Can I hug you?” I said. I sat on his bed, keeping space between us. He nodded yes and I carefully made my way to him. I got close and hugged him from behind.

“It’s okay. You can cry on me.” I said. He sobbed some more and I allowed him to cry on my shirt. Noah was always either happy, bored, or annoyed. So seeing him sad was different. He looked vulnerable. He looked weak. He looked small. And he probably didn’t like feeling like that.

“I’m sorry you have to see me like this.” He said, muffled by my shirt.

“It’s fine. Emotions make you human.” I said. I hoped my words calmed him down.

I now needed to know who Chase was. Noah’s words sounded so negative when mentioning Chase. Could Chase be the reason why Noah is the way he is? What did this Chase character do to Noah? 

I’ll try to ask him soon.

Noah had fallen asleep on my chest. I moved us so we laid on his bed. He still stayed on my chest, breathing softly. Occasionally he would sniffle, and he would snuggle deeper into my chest. Then he would stop, like if my presence made him feel better. I hugged him and kept him close. 

This wasn’t my idea of celebrating but having Noah sleep on me, now that’s gold. And slowly, my eyes began to close. Before they closer, I made sure to get another look at Noah. His sleeping nature was now calm. Spots of tears were on my tank top, but I didn’t mind. Noah could cry on me all he wants, and I’ll be there to catch his tears.

---

bye! i love you all!

19. Touch Him

Noah’s POV

I was sleeping soundlessly until a loud noise woke me. I tried opening my eyes but the lids hurt when I opened them. I felt around and touched something soft but hard. It was flat and right next to me. I tried opening my eyes again because the loud noise wouldn’t stop. I opened them and saw it was Aaron snoring. I looked at my hands and realized I was grabbing his pecs.

They felt nice. His tank top was gray and brought out his chest muscles more. I slipped my hand away slowly. A heavy force was gripping me and I looked to see Aaron’s muscular arms holding me. His arms hugged my upper body and were clasped like he didn’t want me to let go. 

His snoring was still going and it was starting to annoy me. I reached my fingers to his nose and clasped them to make him stop breathing for a while. His breathing stopped and I let go. Then his breathing was reset and back was his soft snoring. 

It’s cruel but I had to do it.

I was left with nothing but my thoughts, which is a bad thing. I looked around the room and saw it was the morning. I guess Aaron and I went to sleep together. In the same bed. Cuddling. My face on his chest. And him hugging me. Not weird at all.

I cringed upon remembering that I had cried in front of him the night before. I had no idea why I remembered those dark memories. They taunted me every second but I guess yesterday my mind was vulnerable and thus they broke through. 

“Mmm.” Aaron said, grunting in his sleep. I looked at him and reached my hand to touch his cheek. They were soft and he had shaved earlier so his stubble was a bit soft. I wanted to touch him forever. 

“Noah?” He said. I made eye contact and saw that one of his eyebrows was raised as if he was questioning what I was doing. Wait. What was I doing? Oh right! Touching his face.

“Yeah!” I said quickly, taking my hand off his face. He chuckled, which made his chest move up and down. 

“What were you doing touching my cheek?” Aaron asked. I tried to come up with an excuse.

“Um, there was a uh, a BUG! On your face.” I said quickly.

“So you were massaging the bug on my face or killing it?” He said. He began to sit up and I moved and got off of him. He layed back onto the wall and crossed his arms while his biceps popped out. I just sat there with my legs crossed staring at him.

“Shut up!” I said. I didn’t like the atmosphere in the room so we stayed quiet. He smirked at me while I just looked at a jar of M&M’s I had on my desk.

“Noah. Do you want to talk about it?” Aaron asked. I turned to him and realized he was talking about me last night sobbing.

“It was nothing. I just needed to cry.” I said.

“Are you sure? You sounded hurt.” He expressed his concern. Finally someone who can see that I wasn’t fine.

“Yeah, I’m sure.” I said deciding not to tell him.

“You didn’t…” He strayed away from what he was saying.

“I didn’t…?”

“…cut yourself.” He sounded like he offended someone. I was taken aback. Did someone tell him about the rumors? I thought those died down. 

“WHAT! NO! WHY WOULD YOU ASSUME THAT!?” I raised my voice. Aaron put his hands on my shoulders to calm me down.

“I’m sorry. I was just worried. You looked really bad last night.” He said. It calmed me down. Maybe he does know the rumors but is ignoring them. But he cares for me and thus I know it won’t leave his mind until he has proof that I’m fine.

“Who’s Chase?” Aaron asked the million-dollar question. I forgot that he might’ve heard me scream his name out. I wanted to tell him. I wanted to finally tell someone about the incident that’s been plaguing my mind for years. Then I worried about how he would perceive me. How he would blame me or stop being friends with me.

“I want to tell you. I really do. But I just can’t. Not today.” Or ever.

“That’s okay. I just hope you’re fine.” He said. I giggled.

“Sorry that I ruined our celebration.” I said guiltily.

“It’s fine. Better than being with Olivia.” He said. I scoffed at her name. Should I bring up the kiss he blew me last night. No. It was probably a mistake or a joke. But it didn’t feel like a joke.

“Seriously. I had Martinelli’s apple juice and veggie chips.” I said while wanting to eat right now.

“Who said we had to end our celebration at night?” He smirked at me.

I got off the bed and grabbed the food. I put a blanket on the floor and set some pillows. I pulled out my laptop and played the new The Amazing Spider Man movie which was just released. Aaron layed on the blanket and I took the spot next to him.

For an hour, all we did was eat and watch the movie. 

“I gotta text my mom where I am. Be right back.” He said. He climbed down the ladder while I sat there waiting for him. He returned and had a nervous expression on his face.

“Everything okay?” I asked, wanting to make sure he was comfortable.

“Mmhmm. Yeah. Totally fine.” He said. I turned to watch the movie while Aaron layed next to me. There came back the awkward tension I so much hated.

“Noah?” He spoke randomly.

“Yes, Aaron?” I said, turning to him.

“Can I ask you a question?” He fiddled with his fingers.

“Yeah. Sure.” I was worried. If he looks scared, then should I also be?

“Um. I was, I wanted to know if…”

“Yeah?”

“Will you go out with me?!” He said in one breath.

I stared at him for a while, making sure I heard that correctly. He wanted… to date… ME? A guy like Aaron can date anyone in the school and he chooses me? 

One side wanted to say yes. But the other remembered Chase and hesitated. An internal conflict occurred while I tried to figure out what my heart wanted.

“Y’know what. Forget I asked.” Aaron spoke.

“Yes! I’ll go out with you.” I spewed out.

“Great! Awesome. I promise you won’t regret it.” He said, smiling at me. 

Did I make the right choice? Was it a good idea to allow someone in my life again? I’ve known Aaron and from what I’ve seen, it was a gamble I’m willing to bet on.

---

bye! i love you all!

20. First Date

Aaron’s POV

Oh God I asked him out. I actually did that! I was so nervous I had to step out and calm myself down. I’d thought about asking him out for a while. I needed to work up the courage to do it but I was never fully prepared. I just had to do it. 

I had no idea where to take Noah. Noah is very… picky. And I want to choose a place he will find comfortable. A classy restaurant was out of the equation. The park? Too cold. Movie theaters? Nothing interesting is playing yet. The treehouse? Not yet.

This was a difficult decision. Wait a minute. I thought about it and it’s so simple. Red Star Diner!

It’s perfect. It’s the first place that I hung out with Noah besides the treehouse. The time I went there was amazing. The food was splendid. The atmosphere was ethereal. And Noah was perfect. 

Noah

Hey. I’m outside waiting for you.

I got a text from Noah. I looked outside my window and indeed saw Noah standing on the sidewalk that connected our houses. From what I can see, he wore a navy blue button up with black jeans. I put on my gold chain and walked down stairs.

“Hey sweetie. Where’re you going?” Mom asked.

“I’m going out with Noah.” I said.

“Oh.” She said. The look on her face said that she had suspicions that something else was going on. “Have fun then.” She said and waved me goodbye.

I exited my house and made my way to Noah. His back was turned and I decided to sneak up on him. Stepping slowly and avoiding the crunchy leaves, I reached his back and grabbed his shoulders tightly and shook him.

“BOO!” I said. He yelped and jumped back, swinging his hands and hitting my nose.

“AH! What the fuck?!” I screamed while clutching my nose.

“Why’d you do that? You scared me.” He said while catching his breath.

“But did you have to hit me?” I said. He looked at me deeply.

“Yes.” And that’s where our conversation ended.

“C’mon. The world isn’t waiting for us!” I said. I grabbed his wrist and began dragging him in the direction of the diner. Noah didn’t protest and instead allowed me to drag him. I stopped dragging him and turned to face him when we reached the diner.

“We’re here!” I exclaimed. Noah turned to the diner and smiled at me.

“You certainly have good taste.” He said. I tipped an imaginary hat at him and he chuckled. We entered the diner and were greeted by the owner. 

The diner was a little empty, most of the patrons being young adults. 

“Ugh, millennials.” I said. Noah laughed a little too loud. We headed towards a booth beside the window and near a jukebox. After waiting for a while, a young woman came who was dressed as a waiter.

“Hello fine men. What would you like to order?” Her chippy attitude made me happy for some reason.

“Um, I’ll take a strawberry smoothie, fries, a cheeseburger, and onion rings please.” I said. I looked over to Noah.

“I’ll do the same but make it a vanilla smoothie instead.” The woman nodded and wrote down our orders as she left.

“Strawberry? Really?” Noah placed his hand on the table and shook his head in disappointment. 

“Oh what? Are you too ‘proper’ for strawberry?” I said. 

“Hey man! Just saying. If you like strawberries, you’re pretty much making fun of yourself at that point.” He said. I rolled my eyes, deciding not to argue more.

Our food arrived and Noah and I had the best date I could think of. There was absolutely no rush, unlike previous dates I’ve had. Noah would talk. Which to me was a huge development. It’s crazy to think that a few weeks ago, Noah was too afraid to speak to me. But now, he can open up. He loves talking about literature. I find literature boring, but he makes things sound interesting. 

It’s taking my entire power to not lean over and kiss him.

‘We Are Never Ever Getting Back Together’ by Taylor Swift was playing in the background while we sipped on our milkshakes. 

“C’mon. I wanna take you somewhere else.” I said. I paid for the food and grabbed his hand, leading him outside the diner.

We made our way to a small park. The sun was setting at this point and the park remained empty, void of any children. Perfect.

“Today was amazing, Noah.” I said.

“It was. I actually enjoyed being around another human.” He snarkily replied. I laughed.

“So I was thinking, since today went great, I was thinking if we could go on another date.” I said looking down wanting to avoid his eyes. 

“Of course.” He excitedly exclaimed, almost like he was expecting I would never ask. I stared at Noah, and looked down to his lips. I wanted to kiss him so badly right now. He looked innocent, small, and vulnerable. I wanted to protect him. Just pick him up and carry him. He leaned in to kiss him. But then he stopped me. 

“Not yet.” He said, keeping his hand on my pecs. All I could think at that moment was Noah touching me and how his hand would feel on my bare skin. The heat that his hand released onto my chest warmed my entire being. A fire had lit, and there was no way to stop it.

“Fine. But one day I’ll get that kiss.” A hint of promise in my voice. We walked home together. Our hands would touch, sending sparks between us.

“Goodbye, Aaron. See you later.” He said. 

“Until then, Noah.” I said. We walked to our homes and a sense of invincibility flooded my veins. 

“Hey son. How was today?” Mom asked me. I smiled brightly at her.

“Great!” And I stepped to my room and laid on my bed, thinking about how I should ask Noah out eventually to be my boyfriend.

---

bye! i love you all!

21. Coming Out

Noah’s POV

Smitten. That’s how I feel right now. I feel like a princess who was saved from a tower by a handsome prince. My prince being Aaron. But I’m not a princess.

I’m a king.

“Hey sweetie. How was today?” Mom asked me when I entered home. I turned to see her and my dad watching the TV. I think it was time to tell them. I may not know my sexuality exactly, but I had a feeling I knew that I like men.

I nervously walked over to the recliner that was next to the couch. I played with my shirt and I stared at them.

“Do you love me?” I asked them as tears started to build up in my eyes. My vision was cloudy and the ringing in my ear grew louder.

“Of course, son. We’ll love you no matter what.” Mom said. Her words encouraged me more to say what I’ve been meaning to say.

“I’m gay.” I said. I let a few tears fall, refusing to look them in the eyes. I felt like such a huge disappointment. I’ll never become someone they can be proud of. Since the accident, I became closed off, and my connection with my family split apart. I feel like my parents feel like they lost a son who checked out on reality. And now I’m gay. Could I be more of a disappointment? Wait until, if, they find out about what caused the accident. I’ll be done for.

“Noah. We love you no matter what.” Mom said as she hugged me from the side. I sobbed harder, not able to comprehend the acceptance of my parents.

“You guys aren’t mad?” I sobbed. My dad got up and went to my other side and patted my back in an affectionate way.

“Son. No matter what you do, we will always love you.” Dad said, his words sincere. I let them hug me for a while until I was able to calm down.

“Are you okay?” Mom asked, hinting to a much deeper meaning.

“Of course.” I said.

“So where did you go?” Mom asked.

“On a date with Aaron.” I said. Mom’s eyes widened until her features softened.

“Aaron is indeed a great boy. If he makes you happy, then we support you.” Mom said.

I smiled, happy that I had this conversation with my parents. But most of all, happy that this was the first conversation with my parents in years where I was able to open up.

I took a quick shower, cleansing myself from any negative energy that may have manifested today. No dark thoughts. Only good ones. A knock from my door alerted me and I saw it was my dad standing there. I guess I forgot to lock the door.

“Hey, son.” Dad’s caring voice comforted me.

“Hi dad.” I said. I felt nervous again. I hope dad wasn’t upset at me. I know that he’s tried so hard to get me to talk more.

“I’m proud of you today.” Dad said, sitting on the edge of my bed. A feeling of pride overtook me.

“Thank you dad.”

“I know these past few years, you haven’t been yourself. What you did today, opening up and telling us your true feelings, I haven’t seen that in so long. I hope you continue to work and feel like yourself again.” Dad said as I began to sob silently. I expected him to get angry, but in fact, he’s happy.

“Thanks dad. I expected you to get angry at me for being gay.” I said.

“When I was younger, an event made me realize that being gay doesn’t matter, because love will always be more important.” Dad said. I looked at his face, and judging by his look, he knows what he’s talking about.

“So, Aaron. Does he treat you well?” Dad asked me. I looked at him and one of his eyebrows was raised.

“Yeah. I like being with him.” I said. Dad nodded in approval.

“It’s great that you finally have someone to talk to.” Dad said.

“Yeah. He’s amazing.” I said.

“If he hurts you, I’ll make sure to-”

“I get it dad. He won’t hurt me.” I said. Aaron is amazing. He’s caring. He looks out for me.

“Night, son.” Dad said. I said goodnight back and he left my room as I laid back, hugging my pillow close to me. I missed Aaron. I wanted to see him again.

Holy shit! Aaron and I went on a date! The thought just hit me. This is huge. And I don’t know what to do afterwards. I mean, I agreed to another date. Isn’t the second date where you kiss? And then the third you have…

…Yeah. Not sure how to feel.

But knowing Aaron, he’ll go slow. He’ll make sure I feel safe.

I wasn’t sure if we were officially dating. He never officially asked me out, though I’m hoping he might. But would he hide me? Would he keep his ‘straight’ persona and never hug or kiss or hold my hand in public? If he wanted to hide me, I guess I’ll let him. But if he wants to show me off, I won’t protest it.

I smiled to myself as I looked around my room. It’s been a while since I was happy in my room. I also noticed that I felt okay with sleeping in my room tonight. Sleeping in my room was usually met with me refusing to sleep because the feeling of uncomfortableness would be too much. But tonight, tonight was much more different.

Knowing that Aaron was somewhere next to me. It felt exhilarating that Aaron focused on me. His attention was on me.

I looked outside my window and saw Aaron standing there changing. He put his shirt on and made eye contact with me. Only this time, I didn’t run away.

“Goodnight.” He mouthed. He waved at me.

“Goodnight.” I said back. I waved at him too as he both looked at each other a while longer before we simultaneously turned off the lights and went to bed.

Life might just be worth living for.

---

bye! i really love you all!

22. Lotta Latte

Aaron’s POV

School on Monday was just an obstacle for me until I was able to finally talk to Noah again. I would sometimes speak to him. But of course, my teammate swept me away. I should really put my foot down and tell them that I NEED to speak to Noah. Afterall, I do like him. 

During lunch, I went to the library to be more with Noah. I avoided all the teammates and walked into the empty hall with shelves that had books collecting dust. 

“Hey Noah.” I said, approaching the back side of the room where Noah was at. He had a book open and had a sandwich next to him. From the looks of it, he was focused on the book more than eating. 

“Hi.” He said, not looking up from the book but I could see a smile forming on his face. My presence affected his emotions. 

The things that does to people.

“I really enjoyed our date.” I said, breaking the silence. I saw his eyes stopped moving and began to shift from the words of the page to look up at me. 

“Uh, I did too. Really looking forward to our next one.” He muttered out.

“Oh so you WANT another date to happen?” I smirked at him and winked.

“Hey, that’s what you said.” He clapped back. 

“True. But it sounds better hearing it from you.”

“Don’t get too cocky now. But you are the first person who’s taken me on a date.”

“I’m your first, eh?” I smirked at him. 

“Yeah. And I watch a lot of rom coms. So you had some big shoes to fill.” He said smiling.

“And did I meet those expectations?”

“Exceedingly.” He sighed.

“Great! By the way, our next date is Friday since we have no school.” I sputtered out.

“Where will you be taking me?” He asked. I actually didn’t know. The diner was out of the question. I can’t take him to the same place. I need to choose something else.

Lunch ended and I said goodbye to Noah. We had the same class next but I had to leave early for a football game. I walked and entered the locker room. Half-naked men surrounded me. I covered my eyes. I didn’t want to see them. Only Noah. I spotted Greg changing and decided to ask him for advice.

“Greg!” I said. I approached him as he put on his shirt.

“Yeah man. What’s up?” He asked.

“So I need to know a great place to hang out. But somewhere not cliche. Ya know what I’m sayin?” I said, leaning against the locker.

“Hmm, I getchu man. You should go to Lotta Latte. It’s a small cafe but they have the best ice cream. I recommend the almond one.” He said, sounding excited. 

I smiled at the thought of Noah eating ice cream. Him licking it with his small tongue. His small moans he does when he eats something good. And the cream on his face.

And now my pants are tight.

“Awesome. Thanks man.” I adjusted myself because my lower area was feeling uncomfortable.

“You seem much happier recently. What’s going on with you?” Greg pestered me.

Was Noah okay with me telling people about us? Is there even an ‘us’? He didn’t ask me to be his boyfriend nor did I ask him. We went on a date. A magical, splendid, euphoric date. 

I won’t tell anyone yet. Not until we have something to announce.

“Nothing. Just… feeling happy. That’s all.” I finished. I changed quickly, covering my hard-on. 

After the game, I went to the treehouse.

“Hey Noah.” I said quickly, sticking my head through the trapdoor. He jolted up and dropped his phone on the floor.

“WHAT THE FUCK, AARON?! STOP DOING THAT!” He said, bending down to get his phone.

“Sorry. I wanted to let you know that we’re going to a cafe for our date.” 

“So you want me to dress like a hipster…?” He asked.

“Nope. Just letting you know.”

“I look forward to it,” He leaned in close to my ear and whispered “…Mr. Stevens.” I had no idea where that came from. His voice was so seductive. My Jr. was swirling around and grew harder. I coughed and looked away while Noah acted like nothing happened. He returned to his book while I thought of decorating my room to come down from my high.

A few minutes of silence. And at that time, I looked over Noah’s room. His desk was full of carvings on the wood. The walls hung Post-It notes that all said random words. 

“I came out to my parents.” Noah said. I turned to him quickly.

“You did?” I asked. I was curious as to him actually SPEAKING to his parents. 

“Yeah.”

“How did they react?”

“They were cool with it. Plus they were happy that I opened up to them. A few tears were shed. But either way, it was amazing.” He said. I breathed in relief. I knew that eventually I would have to come out. I wasn’t sure how my parents would react. My mom would probably be okay with it. My father, however, probably won’t. He’s always pushing this masculine agenda onto me. He forced me to play football. He forced me to date girls back in New York. 

“That’s amazing! I’m so proud of you.” I said, going up to him and hugging him.

“Woah woah woah, buddy. You’re gonna crush me.” He said. I pulled away and looked at him deeply in his eyes. His pupils dilated. I wanted to reach down and kiss him.

“Can I kiss you?” I said. He nodded, refusing to look away.

I leaned down. But I chickened out and instead kissed his forehead like he was a child.

One day, maybe, I’ll be able to give him a proper kiss, and be a proper boyfriend.

23. Panic Attack

Noah’s POV

“Come on!” Aaron said, dragging me into Lotta Latte. I’ve heard about this place before and how amazing their dairy products were. I never went. This place opened up two years ago. And during this time I was alone. I had no purpose to attend such a populous place if I was going alone. 

“Good Evening! Welcome to Lotta Latte!” The cashier said. I smiled at her. Aaron looked at the menu until his eyes landed on a sign next to the register.

‘Half-Off for Couples <3’

Aaron turned to me and had the biggest smile on his face. Oh no. Oh no no no no no…

“So we’re a couple,” Aaron said, sliding his arm over me and hugging me. “Could we get the half-off discount?” He asked in a cherubi voice. The cashier looked a little shocked but then a smile fell on her face.

“Sure. What would you two like?” She asked.

“Can I get the almond ice cream?” Aaron told the woman. He turned to me and whispered in my ear.

“You should get the almond ice cream.”

“Okay.” I said.

“And I’ll get the French vanilla ice cream.” I said. I turned and gave Aaron a look.

Our ice cream arrived and Aaron paid for it. We did indeed get the couple’s discount. I hid my face the entire time Aaron paid for our stuff.

“BTW,” Yes she actually said the acronym. “You two look so cute together.” The cashier said. Aaron grabbed my hand.

“Thank you. Have a great day, ma’am.” And we left the store.

“Seriously! The couple’s discount?” I said, turning to Aaron while he licked his ice cream like he didn’t care. 

“Well, are we not a couple?” He asked.

“Pssh! No! You never asked me to be your boyfriend!” I said.

“Oh. Right!” And he stopped. But a look on his face made me question what he was thinking about. My nerves went up. Curse my catoptric tristesse which rendered me paranoid.

“But,” He said, “At least we got the ice cream cheaper.” He said.

“True. The ice cream here is expensive. Fuck gentrification.” I said and raised my cone in the air. We arrived at a park and sat on the bench to eat.  I licked my ice cream but felt eyes on me. I ignored that feeling and licked my ice cream. But it came back again. I turned and saw Aaron watching me lick.

“You alright?” I asked. He snapped out his thoughts.

“Oh, um, yeah. I’m fine. Swell.” He said. I raised an eyebrow at him. This bitch acting weird.

“You take very small licks.” He said. Some custard was caught in my throat and I coughed. 

“The fuck?!” I said. I turned to him and he patted my head.

“You’re so adorable.” He said. I blushed but hid it. I turned to face him and he was much closer. Our faces were close. Very close. 

In a matter of seconds, he kissed me on the lips. Sparks flew everywhere while my eyes remained closed. Feelings of enchantment swirled in my stomach that quickly made their way to my limbs and brain. This was it. The feeling that people in love talk about. The feeling that I never knew I could actually get. And these feelings stemmed from Aaron. 

I launched closer into the kiss. My lips synchronized with his as he let out groans of pleasure. My ice cream was melting. I tasted the almond off of Aaron’s tongue. The almond and vanilla taste mixed in our mouths, creating a new exquisite flavor that only I and Aaron will ever taste. Our signature that we created with ourselves made from the passion of a kiss on a cold fall night.

After kissing for a while on this bench, we split apart. 

“You’re an amazing kisser.” He said, panting for air.

“You too.” I said. Aaron reached over to pull me into a kiss again. He put his hand on my head. I froze and images played in my head again. Dark images.

‘It’s just a blowjob.’

I panicked at that moment and jolted away from Aaron to the other side of the bench.

“I’m sorry! I’m so sorry! I’ll do anything!  Pl-Please don’t hurt me!” I shut my eyes and looked down, covering myself with my arms. I sobbed and remained in my weak position. Haunted figments played. It was difficult for me to separate reality from memories.

“Noah! Noah? Are you okay? Did I do anything? Please answer me.” Aaron’s voice said but my ears rang, making him barely audible.

“Please don’t hurt me, Chase!!” I said. 

“Noah. It’s me, Aaron. I won’t hurt you.” His voice spoke softly. I opened my eyes and saw the worried face of Aaron. So I’m not back in time. I’m in the present. I pinched myself to make sure I wasn’t dreaming. Yep. I wasn’t.

“P-Promise?” I asked Aaron. Immediately he nodded his head.

“I promise.” He said. He moved his arm to hug me but was hesitant. I gave him a nod and he extended his arm to encompass me. His cologne whiffed through my nose and calmed me down.

We stayed in that position for a while. I would occasionally sob and a few tears would escape. I felt bad that Aaron’s shirt was once again getting stained with my tears. Once I stopped crying, I just laid my head on Aaron’s chest. His beating heart raced faster.

“Would you like to go home?” He said. I nodded and we got up, ready to walk home. During our walk, guilt flooded me. This was our second date and my dumbass had to have a breakdown. I bet Aaron doesn’t want to be with me anymore. I bet he thinks I’m some freak.

“Would you like to talk about it?” Aaron asked.

“No. It’s fine if you don’t want to date me anymore. I get it. I’m just some weird kid.”

“I would never leave you, Noah. I like you too much.” He said. He kissed my head, sending feelings in my tummy. We arrived home. Before I left, Aaron made sure that I was fine. I kept telling him I was. 

Dark memories from my past came up. It happened. And I broke down. And then I cried. But then… Aaron was there. To comfort me. And I really liked that. 

Noah

Sorry for ruining our date :(

Aaron

It’s fine. I just want to make sure you’re okay. Are you?

Noah

Yeah. I am.

And I was. Thanks to him. I just hope my dark memories don’t come back up.

---

bye! i love you all!

24. Time To Ask

Aaron’s POV

I couldn’t sleep that night. I just couldn’t. I hated the idea that Noah was alone. I thought back to what I had done to cause that reaction. Was it the kiss? I couldn’t. We had kissed for minutes before. Maybe it was me slipping my tongue in his mouth. But the groans that he let out proved that wrong. He was fine until I put my hand on the back of his head. 

That’s when he freaked out.

Note to self: Don’t touch the back of Noah’s head.

I might not know why he freaked out, but at least I’ll make sure I don’t do it again. 

We spent the rest of the weekend talking. But in the back of my mind, I worried. It’s not that I was growing impatient, but I needed to know who Chase was. Noah had said his name when he freaked out. Connecting the dots, I came to the conclusion that this Chase person was responsible for Noah’s disclosed mindset. 

When will I find out about Chase?

Monday was like any other day. I hung out with Noah during lunch and made sure to avoid the back of his head. I would sneak glances at Noah, just to check up on him. 

In the locker room, I met up with Greg.

“Greg. Thanks for the recommendation. Lotta Latte was amazing.” I said.

“Cool man. Anything.” He said. I felt the need to tell him about me and Noah. My interest in Noah. I could trust Greg. He’s one of the few genuine people in this place.

“Can I trust you with something?” I said, taking off my shirt. Greg closed his locker and turned to me.

“Sure man.” He said. I breathed and contemplated the next words I would say.

“Promise not to judge me.” I said.

“Uh-oh. Did you kill someone?”

“No. But umm… I like someone.” I said.

“Cool. Who is she?” He said.

“He.” I corrected him. “ I like Noah.” I said. Greg looked shocked. He stumbled with his words but then cleared his throat.

“That was… unexpected. But I’m cool with it man.” I sighed in relief.

“Oh thank God! I thought you were gonna hate me.” I said.

“Nonsense. You’re my best friend.” He said.

“Well, thanks.” And then it was quiet.

“So Noah, huh?” He nudged my shoulder.

“Yeah. Noah.” I blushed at the thought of him.

“Just be careful around him.”

“What do you mean?” I asked, sounding confused as to why Greg would give me a warning.

“Have you ever noticed that Noah is quiet and sometimes nervous?” Greg asked.

“Yeah.” I recalled our second date.

“Well, three years ago, Noah came to school in a cast on his arm. For a while, everyone assumed that he got injured. But then Mack apparently said that Noah was cutting himself. He told everyone. People thought that Noah had tried to kill himself because his best friend Carter had left that summer.

“The rumor spread. I was worried for Noah. He became a social outcast. No one wanted to be friends with him. I tried speaking to him but he was always quiet. It was later said that he didn’t try to kill himself but got into a car crash. But the rumor was too far gone. 

“So when I said to be careful, I mean that you should make sure he’s safe. I don’t know what happened to him exactly, but whatever it was changed him. It’s nice to see him have someone look out for him. Treat him good.” Greg said while patting my back. 

Hmm. I knew about the rumor. Mack had told me a while ago. But the way Greg explained was in a more unbiased way. Mack simply told me Noah tried to kill himself. Greg however, told me that it was assumed he tried to. 

My mind was occupied too much. During practice, the thought of Noah was distracting. The time went slow. I was determined now.

Determined to finally ask Noah who the fuck Chase was.

I began walking home when the sky began crying. Droplets dropped onto my hair and soon rain fell intermittently. I put my hood on. I decided to text Noah.

Aaron

Hey, where r u? I need to talk to you.

Noah

At the treehouse.  Why?

Aaron

I’ll explain soon.

I walked faster and entered the woods. The rain was less under the canopy of the trees. I almost slipped a few times due to the mud on the floor. 

I came upon the treehouse. The light on the inside was on. I reached to the bottom of the ladder and kicked off my shoes. I climbed the ladder and entered abruptly. There Noah was on his bed. 

It was time to ask him who Chase was.

---

bye! i love you all!

25. Three Years Ago

Noah’s POV

I still continue to feel embarrassment and guilt over what I did. Even though Aaron insists that it wasn’t my fault, I can’t help but feel like it was. We were just kissing and I had a full blown panic attack when he grabbed the back of my head.

I guess it reminded me of what Chase did to me when he-

Nevermind. It’s best I don’t bring it up.

It began to cloud as the sky became darker. I layed in my bed and wondered about my life.

Three years ago, an accident happened. One that I haven’t told anyone the true events that led up to it. The pain, guilt, and trauma sustained from it.

I thought I would never be the same again.

Two months ago, I met a boy who is slowly becoming the reason I wake up everyday. A boy who despite my rejections in the beginning, continues to stick around.

And I know that I can slowly be fixed again.

The idea of that amazes me. Aaron is my savior. The one who forced me out of my shell and is slowly removing my mauerbauertraurigkeit (pushing friends and close people away) tendencies.

I couldn’t sit around any longer. I had to go to the treehouse.

I’m pretty sure the treehouse has made me a nemophilist. The woods are my safe haven. The foggy mornings, the quiet nights, the cold rainy days, and the shade on hot days. It’s no wonder I love these words. I hereby call these the Noah-Aaron woods. Trespassers will be killed.

Running quickly, I raced through the woods to avoid the rain hitting me and getting me wet. I entered the treehouse and turned on the heater. I’m surprised the tree hasn’t burnt down yet.

I laid in bed and waited for… something. I felt like something was coming but I’ve yet to know what it was.

An hour passed and I’m pretty sure Aaron’s football practice ended. I don’t know why I was thinking of Aaron right now. We did kiss and went on two dates. But that’s basic things. Nothing that should add to me constantly thinking of Aaron.

But he’s amazing.

Aaron sent me a text that he needed to talk to me about something. My nerves went up. I can already see it. He no longer wants to be with me because I’m weird. Then he’ll start to make fun of me at school and I’ll go back to the shy kid no one cares about.

The trapdoor opened and Aaron scared me. I dropped my book.

“I need to talk to you.” He said. He shook his head like a dog. Can’t say it didn’t turn me on.

“About?” I sounded nervous.

“Who is Chase?” He said. My blood went cold at the mention of him. Swift flashes of my past with him flashed.

“No one important!” I said sternly.

“Is it true you tried to kill yourself?” He asked. I got angry.

“I thought we talked about this before! No, I didn’t! That was false!” I said.

“So why were you wearing a cast for those months? Were you actually in a car crash?”

“YES! I was! What’s your problem?!” I angrily said

“The problem is after you were in a car crash, you became silent. Your mother and father notice this, Greg noticed this. Hell, the whole school noticed. And why did you freak out when I touched the back of your head?” He said fuming.

“You wouldn’t understand. If I told you, you would leave me and never talk to me.” I said, beginning to feel tears poke my eyes.

“I would never do that. I just want to know why you’re like this. I need to know so I can make sure I never hurt you.” He said. I agreed. I feel like I could trust Aaron. He says he truly cares for me.

“And I want to know who Chase is.” He said, sitting next to me on the bed. I scooted over and put a blanket over us.

“If I tell you, you must swear to never tell anyone else.”

“I swear!”

“Swear on the best thing in your life.” I said.

“I swear on you.” He said. I blushed and leaned my head on his shoulder. He began to run his fingers through my hair.

“Anytime you’re ready.” He said.

“Alright.” I said.

“It happened three years ago.”

It was time to tell the truth of what happened during those summer days.

The truth about Chase.

---

bye! i love you all!

26. Meet Chase

Noah’s POV

THREE

YEARS

EARLIER

Summer of June

It was during this time when I worked at a local motel located in our town. I was 14 at the time. And since I was young, I was naive. I hadn’t gotten a glimpse of how cruel the outside world was. I was a desk clerk. Nothing interesting about my job. I only worked because Carla insisted I buy her a new doll for her birthday. Me, being the amazing brother, got a job to supply for her.

It was an extremely hot day. The inside of the lobby was air conditioned but only to a certain amount. I pulled out a Coke bottle and put it on my forehead while the other hand fanned my face with a few papers.

I honestly wanted to go home. But I knew that the old woman who ran this place needed a break. So I stayed. I should’ve left.

At 2:00 pm, I heard the sound of a car pulling up into the motel. I woke up, seeing as how I was almost falling asleep. I looked outside and saw a bright red expensive looking car parked in the parking lot. 

Interesting. We usually don’t get such… lavish customers. The car door opened and out walked a guy who if I’m being honest looked amazing. He wore shades and had a light blue jacket on with black jeans and shoes that cost more than me. He began walking and made his way to the lobby.

“Good day!” I said. He stopped in his tracks and looked up and down at me. A smile spread on his face. A sincere one, I hope. 

“Hello. I’m here to check into a room.” He said. I nodded but couldn’t take my eyes off him. He was a creature of God. I snapped my eyes away and began typing into the system.

“How many nights will you be staying?” I asked.

“Mmm. How long will it take me to see the whole city?” He asked with a plastered grin.

“I don’t know. I recon a week.” I waited for his reply.

“A week it is.” He said.

“Perfect! That’ll be $384.” I said. I was expecting him to pay by credit card but pulled out bills.

“Here’s $500. Keep the change.” He said. I usually don’t get tips. So $100 is amazing.

“I uh, thank you. Have a nice stay.” I said. I handed him the key and he left. I couldn’t get his smile off my mind. I daydreamed about him. 

I imagined him in front of me asking me to hang out with him and we’ll hang out all day and get to know each other.

Wait? He WAS actually in front of me.

“Helllooooooooo??” He said, waving his hand in my face. I snapped out of my trance and coughed.

“Oh. I’m sorry. Hello. Everything okay?” I asked.

“Everything is great.” He flashed a haunting smile. “I wanted to asked you if you would hang out with me today? Maybe show me around town. Introduce me to everything.” He said. Oh crap! This is exactly what I was dreaming about. Quick! I wish I was Jeff Bezos’ child.

“Uh sure. I’m off in three minutes.” I said. He clapped his hands together and waited for me. I finished my work. I followed him as he stood next to me. He was probably 17. He’s older than me, but a guy can dream.

“I’m Noah, by the way. Noah James.” I said. I extended my hand for him to shake it.

“Pleasure. I’m Chase Lexington.” He said. He had a nice last name. It sounded very… royal.

“So. Where to first, Noah?” He asked. The way my name rolled off his tongue sent shivers down my spine. But I wasn’t sure if they were good or bad shivers.

“I was thinking of downtown. They have a lot of shops there. We can window shop and I can show you all the good places.” I said. 

“Sounds like a plan.” He said.

We approached downtown. It wasn’t very busy because it was so hot today. I fanned myself with my hand while Chase stood in his large jacket. How the hell is he not dying?

“Aren’t you hot?” I said. 

“Very. Also it’s not that warm.” He said. 

We traversed around town for a while. 

Even though we said we could window shop, Chase didn’t. I don’t know how much money he had, but he must’ve been loaded. 

But he didn’t just buy himself stuff. He bought me so many gifts I had trouble carrying them. I even told him about the doll Carla wanted and he bought it. Just like that. I got designer shoes, cashmere sweaters, and a laptop. I felt like I was being spoiled by a sugar daddy.

“Thanks for today. It was amazing.” He said.

“THANK YOU. You really didn’t have to buy me all of this.” I said. I blushed when he stroked my hair. We walked back to the hotel. 

“Well. This is goodbye.” I said. I didn’t want to leave him. I like talking and being with him.

“Will I see you tomorrow?” He asked.

“Yeah. I have the morning shift.” I said. He smiled at the mention that he would see me again.

“Then I’ll see you again. And we’ll hang again.” He said.

“Can’t wait.” I said.

The next day rolled and during my shift I would see glances of Chase. He was always on the phone screaming into it. I wanted to ask what was wrong but I barely met him yesterday.

We hung out again. And it was the same. He bought me items and food. He treated me like God. 

And I’m pretty sure I was growing feelings for him.

---

bye! i love you all!

27. Torment

Noah’s POV

THREE

YEARS

EARLIER

A few days passed and my schedule began to change, in regards to Chase. I would work for a few hours while Chase would wait for me to end my shift. Then he would take me downtown and we would look around. He would always insist on buying gifts for me. And I would always turn him down. 

But an issue that was arising was my feelings for Chase. Sure the gifts were nice and all, but he was also really nice. I was able to talk to him. Granted, I didn’t know much about Chase. He was loaded with money. And he was handsome. But that’s it.

“Tell me about yourself. About your family.” I asked him while we walked through a park. We sipped on slushies as the hot summer sun beamed down on us.

“Well, I come from a long line of rich entrepreneurs. Business men. Aristocrats. And government officials. My family owns a large company which is established in every part of the world.” He said. 

“Oh, so are you like Richie Rich-rich?” I asked.

“Yeah. I’m next in line for the Lexington Corporation.” He said. I’ve never heard of that company.

“So what are you doing here in Crestwood?” I asked. We walked and stopped under a tree. He laid down on the soft cool grass and laid our backs on the trunk.

“I was supposed to be going to New York with my family. But I decided to take a detour. It’s common for me to do these. Those meetings are so boring.” He said. 

We laid in silence for some time. I looked into the clouds and saw birds flying through the breeze as they left behind their troubles and looked towards an uncertain future. But what they were certain was that they would get to live like tomorrow never would come. And every minute, they appreciated the liveliness they were gifted and never took it for granted.

“Do you wish to be free?” I asked Chase.

“Yeah. That’s why I came here. I just can’t stand being forced to have a future I don’t want.” He said.

“Me too. I want to explore more outside this town. I know the world is bigger, and it’ll keep getting bigger.” I said.

“Come with me.” He said. He got up and held out his hand for me. I grabbed it and he pulled me up. We walked through the park and went back to the motel.

“Get in.” He said, opening the door to his expensive sports car. I hesitated but I got in. I settled and Chase got into the driver’s side. I put on my seatbelt as my nerves began to shake.

“Ready?” He asked me. I nodded and he pulled out of the parking lot. 

He drove for a while through the woods and the vibrations I felt from the engine hummed in my chest. The woods ended and then there were plains. Miles of plains extended through the fields and my eyes largened at the sight of green and yellow. 

“Wow… this is amazing.” I said.

“Hang on!” Chase said. He hit the engine harder and the car began to go faster. I leaned back in my seat as the pressure made my body move back.

“Go on! Stick your head out the window!” Chase said. The window rolled down and the gust of wind blew right into my face. 

I looked outside before I stuck my head out. The wind pushed my hair back and the sound flooded my ears.

“WOOOOHOOOO!” I screamed out into the world. This is the feeling I’ve wanted to feel. 

Freedom.

After an hour of this, Chase stopped driving. He pulled to the side of the road and parked his car. We were next to a field and it was bright green with verdant grass. He got out and I followed him. We made our way to the meadow and sat underneath a tree.

“How’d you like it?” He asked.

“It was amazing! Thank you!” I said. Chase let out a small chuckled. His muscular arms folded over his head and laid while I continued to look at his face. Chase saw me looking at him and he sat up. He looked at me in the eyes, staring and asserting his dominance.

“Can I kiss you?” He asked me. His hands came up and cupped my left cheek. I gulped and stared deep into his eyes. Mischief flooded them and in the moment, I nodded yes.

He leaned in and so did I. Our breaths fanned each other and then he moved and closed our lips together. It was small kisses but then they moved to go faster. Soon, his tongue entered my mouth and explored every crevice. 

By this point, I was forming a crush on Chase. And I think he was liking me too!

That’s how it was for the next week. Chase would take me out somewhere and we would walk and shop. 

And then we would make out.

But something about these kisses didn’t feel right. The kissing was great, sure, but there was something off about them. I came to the realization that the kisses had no emotion in them. They were just that, kisses. Lustful kisses.

“What are you doing?” I asked Chase. We were in the meadow and sitting close to each other kissing. He pulled away and began unbuckling his belt.

“I love you. You know that, right?” He said, his deign voice making me want to cower.

“Yeah. I do.” I responded, continuing to look at him unhinging his belt. He began to pull his pants down and then his briefs.

And then he pulled it out.

“Why are you showing me this?” I asked as I began sweating nervously. He gripped it and made it stand up by grabbing it by the base.

“Isn’t it clear? I want you to give me a blowjob.” He said. He put his hand behind my head, firmly placing it there. He didn’t put his hand away, and I began to panic.

“I-I don’t want t-to! Please! I’m too young!” I said. I tried to turn my head away to not look at it but he kept his palm positioned so I couldn’t move. 

“Noah. Noah-Sweet-Noah. Think of all I gave you. I bought you those gifts and gave you attention. This is the least you could do.” Chase said. His eyes were empty but at the same time, full of lust and anger. 

“I never wanted those things! I told you! Please let me go!” I said. 

“Fine!” He said. He turned away and started crying. “I thought you loved me!” He said tearfully. I felt guilty for making him cry. Seeing what I did to him. It’s just a blowjob. It’s not a bad thing, right?

“Okay! Fine. I’ll give you a blowjob.” I said. He turned and smirked like a flick was switched in his brain. 

“Great! Get over here.” He said. He jerked himself off for a bit and made himself get hard again. I watched it and got closer to it. 

“Go on.” He said, pushing my head onto him. 

And reluctantly, I opened my mouth.

It was like that for a while. We would go shopping and kissing and then I would give him a blow- or handjob. I felt disgusting. I can’t believe I was allowing myself to do this. I should’ve stood up to him and told him no. And I did sometimes. But he would guilt-trip me and accuse me of not loving me. He would bring up the gifts he bought me, the attention he gave me, and the love he flooded me with.

And everytime, it worked and I was a victim to his torment. 

---

bye! i love you all!

28. CRASH!

Noah’s POV

THREE

YEARS

EARLIER

It was hell constantly having to do things with Chase. He was a skillful manipulator and I fell for his tricks every time.

Today, Chase wanted me to meet him at the meadow that I’ve grown to hate so much. I drove in that direction. Yes, I’m 14 and know how to drive. My father taught me at a young age. All the past times Chase has driven me.

One I carefully drove, I reached the patch of field. I parked my car and saw Chase’s car was a bit away from mine. I exited the car and began walking to the tree where we did stuff . I saw Chase sitting there and my nerves began shaking.

“What do you need from me?” I asked him. Chase turned and put his phone in his pocket.

“Well. I was thinking. You’ve been giving me blowjobs which feel nice,” He began to approach me closer and I took a few steps back. “But I want more.” He finished and was standing in front of me.

“What do you mean, more?” I asked, looking up at him. He was God.

“Let me fuck you.” He said.

“No! No! Absolutely not! No! NO!” I said, panicking. He grabbed a hold of my wrist while I thrashed around.

SLAP

He slapped my cheek. I stopped moving and felt my cheek with my hand. It stung. I looked up to Chase and anger was all over his face.

“You’re worthless!” He said. He continued slapping me and called me vulgar names over and over again.

“Please stop! P-Please, sstopp!” I said.

“You’re nothing without me. No one will love you like I do!” He said. He began to drag me to the tree.

“Sit!” He said. I obliged, thankful that he stopped hitting me. I sat there in silence while tears rolled down my face and pain was all over me.

“Now, are you better?” He asked in a caring voice. He brought his hand to my face. I flinched, bracing myself for a hit. Instead, he rubbed my cheek to soothe the pain.

“Mhm.” I said.

It was bad.

“Are you going to let me fuck you?” He asked. He put his hand behind my head, a feeling I was growing to hate.

“No. Please. I don’t want to.” I said in a soft voice.

“Whatever. Just give me a blowjob.” He said in an annoyed tone. He began to unbuckle his pants. He pulled it out and held it, waiting for me to put my mouth on it.

“No.” I said.

“What did you say?” He asked, shocked by my refusal.

“I said no!”

I deserve better than this. I’m not Chase’s pet. I’m not some small person who will allow myself to be walked all over. I have my own life. I am my own person. I will no longer allow someone to make choices for me or control my life. I’ve had enough of Chase now. Today is the day I stand up to him.

The day I gain myself back!

I stood up and began walking away. Chase stood up and shoved it back into his pants. He began to walk up to me and grabbed my wrist tightly.

“You’re not going anywhere!!” He loudly said to me.

“LET ME GO!” I said. I punched him in the face and he stumbled back. He let go, while I took the opportunity to run away from him.

“NOAH!” He screamed while I ran.

“GET BACK HERE YOU SLUT!” He screamed at me. I continued running away as I got closer to my car. The heavy sounds of his footsteps getting closer made me pick up my pace.

“NO! GET THE FUCK AWAY FROM ME!” I breathed heavily as I got inside the car and locked it quickly like my life depended on it, because it did. He approached the window of the car and tried breaking the window. It cracked slightly as he growled at me.

“OPEN UP BITCH!” He pounded faster but I pulled away from the meadow and drove away, leaving Chase alone. My heart beat fast and my eyes filled with tears. I began to wipe my face from the tears that managed to fall.

Finally. I had the courage to stand up to him. That burst of courage and the braveness I felt surprised me. The thought that I stood up to a powerful person, I applaud myself.

But the tears still kept falling. I was entranced by him. But his gifts. His sweet talk. And his charisma. I fell for him, and rather than give back that love, he abused it. I made myself vulnerable to him and he decided to hit me in the weakest spots.

Never again will I do the same. Never again will I allow someone to be close to me, out of fear that they will too abuse it.

However, this new found courage still didn’t stop the tears. I kept on sobbing, while driving. I passed by beautiful fields full of blooming flowers. The green grass was neon and was a wave that took in every place. Meadows flooded every crevice of the valley, and all I could do was cry.

My vision was clouded as I drove more. It was reaching to a point where I shouldn’t even be driving. But I had to. I had to get away.

In the distance, a lamp post became visible. But with my speed combined with my tear-filled eyes, I couldn’t see it. I did see it, but not fast enough.

CRASH!

My car collided with the lamp post. The world went slow. My body went numb. I blacked out and then slowly opened my eyes. I was still in the car. I turned and saw an older guy trying to talk to me. I squinted my eyes at the random man. His talking was inaudible to me. All I could hear was ringing.

I blacked out again.

And it would be for a while.

---

bye! i love you all!

29. Isolated

Noah’s POV

THREE

YEARS

AGO

I began to wake up with a pounding headache. I mumbled incoherently to myself. My eyes opened and I was met with huge blinding lights. I started panicking when a thick feeling was in my throat. After squinting my eyes, I saw it was a feeding tube. I began to thrash around violently and tried screaming. This caught the attention of my parents and the doctors.

I was sedated and the tube was removed, a huge weight being lifted off me. I coughed and was handed a cup of water. I drank it quickly, feeling the dryness leave me. I sat up but my arm felt off. I looked and saw I was wearing a cast. Not only that, but my right leg was in a cast too.

“Sweetie. Are you okay? Oh God. Petey! What happened my dear?!” My mom sobbed next to me. I wanted to hug her but my arm restricted any movement. 

“What… happened?” I asked as my throat still hurt from the tube.

“You were in an accident, son. You were out for a week.” My dad responded, trying hard not to cry in front of me. 

A week. So that’s how long I was out. My heart race picked up when I remembered Chase. I hope he doesn’t try to come back for me and expose me. The heart rate monitor began to become rapid.

“Calm down, Noah. Take deep breaths.” The doctor said. I listened to him and began breathing slowly. He can’t hurt me anymore.

I spent another week in the hospital. It was during this time when my former best friend, Carter, moved away. Losing Carter was honestly the nail in the coffin for me. I had lost my happiness, my ability to trust, my best friend, and the desire to live. There was no way I could tell my family the truth about the crash. 

How can I tell them that their son was manipulated by a rich guy to give him blowjobs and forced him to do so?

The stigma I would receive scared me. And it was worse when I went to quit my job at the motel.

Upon quitting, the old woman who co-owned the place informed me of a letter that was left for me. I grabbed it and read it. And at once, paranoia seeped in me.

The letter, to this day, is something that haunts me. In it, Chase explains that he actually enjoyed our time together. But his growth for lust became bigger when he saw just how easily he could make me do those things. In the letter, his rampage of words went on. He continued to call me worthless and a nobody. Even in his absence, he still finds ways to bring me down.

The final part of the letter is what scared me the most. He warned me that if I should ever choose to try to tell the public about what happened between us, he would use his family’s power and influence to bring my family down. He even signed his name at the bottom. Bastard signed it! He taunted me with that signature. Sure I have evidence, but it’s worthless if in the end it’ll cause more harm than good.

For a few weeks, I was horrible. I refused to go out. I refused to eat. I refused to smile. Chase’s words hurt me. And were engraved in my memory. I went to see a therapist and was diagnosed with depression. I’m sure it was worse because I sugar coated my answers. 

Carter constantly texted and called me to make sure I was okay. But slowly, he began to drift away. He settled into his own new life, and I in mine. What we once shared was now split in half. 

What’s the point of trying to hang out with people if they’ll eventually leave me and hurt me? So I did what any other person in my place would do, secluded myself. I stopped talking to people. First it was my acquaintances. And then my family. It was horrible. 

The times my mom would plead to me and tell her what was wrong when all I could do was shrug. The tears and back and forths we had. I never wanted to leave my family. I loved them and were the reason I even continued living. But when someone like Chase takes advantage of you and then threatens you, you can only worry.

Between the pills, the anxiety, the therapy, and loneliness, I pondered my reasoning to be here. The idea of death was never thought of by me before. Now, I wish death to finally find peace and sleep in eternity.

School started up and I walked down the halls in my cast. Many asked what happened and were “concerned” about my well-being. I simply ignored them, because I knew that they probably only cared to make themselves feel better.

Many of my old acquaintances noticed my shift in personality. Gone was the semi-funny semi-outgoing kid. Replacing it was a much cold and dark persona. People began to go away from me. Was it for fear of me or fear for themselves? Either way, in the span of two weeks, I was alone again.

I sat at tables and worked in groups by myself. No one wished to be with me, and I wished to be with no one.

But it got worse when Mack found my cast. And then he spread that rumor around. I was more of a social outcast. People actually believed I tried to kill myself. I didn’t. I swear on my life I didn’t. 

I didn’t feel welcomed at school. It was like I was intruding into the happy atmosphere. So I split away. I ate alone and sat at the back of the class. This of course made me the target of attacks. They were minor but its intentions were there: to make sure I was made less. 

When the football team began to get involved, it was worse. With the work of Mack, I was attacked for my shyness and my sexaulity, which they didn’t even know what I was.

I was advised by my therapist to get some fresh air. A place I never entered was the forest. Ever since I was little, the forest scared me. I feared the monsters that might inhabit them. But now I know that the monsters didn’t live in the forest. In fact, they lived near me in the form of people.

Walking into the forest, I wasn’t scared. Death no longer scared me because we were friends. I walked deeper into the woods. For once, nature made me happy. Its smell opened my lungs. I was cleansed of my sins. 

I stumbled upon a tree in the woods. This tree was thicker. I sat on one of the low-hanging branches and took a break. I bent down and touched the moss on some rocks, feeling the spongy grass under my fingers. I felt dew drops on my fingers.

Looking up at the tree, an idea came into my head. My mind quickly went to piece everything together. It all came together. This wood, this tree, this spot. 

I could have a treehouse. 

My dad agreed to work on the treehouse with a few of his friends. Once complete, it became my new home. 

I found comfort in the treehouse because I got to be away from judgemental eyes. This was my sanctuary where no one could judge me. I never allow anyone here. Everyone was too untrustworthy now. 

I did feel bad for not letting Carla have a chance to enter. But like I said, trust. She was a child but no exceptions.

Since then, it’s been like that for three years. Alone. All alone. No one to be with. My depression over time was stagnant. Chase’s words still remain. And my connection with my family had too slowly been rekindling.

I wish I could go back and never meet Chase.

---

bye! i love you all!

30. Boyfriend

Aaron’s POV

BACK TO PRESENT

Once finished with his soliloquy, I stared at poor Noah. Noah didn’t look up at me. He kept his head down, admiring the beauty from something that is nothing. One would be a fool to think that he wasn’t paying attention. At this time, all the sounds on earth are silent. There is no room to pay attention to anything else.

A heavy silence fell upon the treehouse. It didn’t feel right. This treehouse is meant to be a safe and comfortable place. Instead, it is the opposite.

“Noah?” I said. My voice quivered. During Noah’s talks, I never interrupted. I didn’t want to interrupt him. He was already opening himself up to me so it’s better I shut up, letting him go on.

“Noah? Please. Answer me.” I said, letting my voice break. I didn’t care that I sounded weak. I wanted to show Noah that I too am vulnerable.

Rather than say anything, Noah sobbed. I’ve never seen him cry like how he’s crying right now. It breaks me just how much baggage and hurt his past memories have. He couldn’t tell anyone because of how others will react and the danger Chase imposes on him.

“I’m-I’m s-sorry. I’m s-sorry. I-I did nothing to sto-stop it. I deserve it! Gosh! Why couldn’t I have been normal!?! I couldn’t be the perfect son! The perfect brother! The perfect student! The perfect friend! I’ll never be the perfect one for you, Aaron!” Noah screamed. He put his face into his palms and cried more.

I shifted myself and scooted my body closer to his. He continued to cry, not looking up. I rested my back on the wall where he was. I stretched my arm and hugged him closer to me.

“No! No, Aaron! I’m sorry. But I just can’t! There’s so much wrong with me! I’d rather you leave me now than get closer to me and then leave me after I’ve gotten too attached!” He said. He pushed himself away from me. My heart broke at his assumptions.

I knew, even then, that I would never hurt Noah. He’s too precious. Too kind. And even though the world has dealt him the worst cards and the sourest lemons, you can still make lemonade with enough sweetness.

Noah sobbed more. I once again moved closer but didn’t hug him. I grabbed his shoulder. He was shocked but quickly calmed when it was just me.

“Noah. Noah. Please. Listen to me.” I pleaded. Tears flooded my eyes. Noah listened and looked at me with his red and irritated eyes.

“I want you to hear every word I say. I will never hurt you. I don’t care about what happened with you and Chase. Your past doesn’t define you today. It shaped you. No one I know could be that strong to keep going after what happened to you. You, Noah, are the strongest person I know. Don’t doubt yourself. Your worth can be found in the damages you carry.”

He sobbed again, this time, he embraced me. He sobbed onto my shirt, again. But his tears are just small specs of gold that are falling from a golden boy who’s been fixed several times. The cracks in him are fragile, but also the strongest bondage.

“I won’t hurt you.” I softly spoke. He moved his head up and stared deeply into my eyes. He sniffled while his red eyes refused to look away from me.

“Do you promise?” He quivered.

“Yes! I promise. And I’ll say it everyday.” I said. I leaned down to kiss Noah. His soft lips taste a bit of his tears.

“Noah?” I said while continuing to kiss him.

“Will you be my boyfriend?” I said.

Finally, I popped the question. I’ve wanted to ask him since after our first date. There was no question nor hesitancy. I knew I wanted to date Noah.

“W-What?”

“Will you be my boyfriend, Noah?” I asked him. His cheeks flushed bright red matching his eyes.

“I uh, I don’t know. Aaron. I really like you but after Chase, how am I supposed to know you won’t hurt me too?” He said. I understand where he is coming from. If I went through something like that, I too would be hesitant of affection.

“There’s no way I can say it and force you to believe me. But I know I can show you. Give me a chance. I’ll be a better man than Chase was.” I said holding his chin.

“Any man is better than Chase.” He chuckled. Finally, laughter.

“True. What do you say?” Hope littered in my voice.

Noah leaned up and kissed me. He moaned into the kiss. I embraced him, letting him take control. He slipped his tongue in my mouth. We stayed like that for a while, continuing to kiss.

We finally split apart, catching our breaths.

“I take that as a yes?” I said.

“Yes, Aaron. I’ll be your boyfriend.”

I hugged Noah. I don’t want to let him go.

“Are you okay with us being public about it?” I said into his neck.

“If you want to. I’m fine with it.” He said while rubbing my back.

“I do. I want to show everyone that you’re mine and mine only.” I gripped him tighter.

“Woah. Easy, tiger. No one is taking me away.” He chuckled.

“Still. I need to be protective cause you’re my boyfriend now.” I smiled into his neck.

“Boyfriend. I could get used to that word.” Noah sighed.

Boyfriend, huh?

“I’ll never stop saying it.” I said.

“Boyfriend Boyfriend Boyfriend Boyfriend Boyfriend Boyfriend Boyfriend Boyfriend-”

“Shut up!” He smacked my back.

Boyfriend .

---

bye! i love you all!

31. Kari

Noah’s POV

“Mom? Dad? I need to speak with you guys.” I said. I sat in the living room. After my talk with Aaron, it felt like a huge burden was lifted off me. Of course I won’t tell my parents about Chase yet. Maybe in the future. But for now, I have to tell them something important.

“Hmm. What is it, Noah?” My dad said. He sat on the couch next to me. Mom entered and sat next to dad.

“I uh… well. You guys know how I went on a date with Aaron?” I said. They nodded.

“Yeah. Aaron. He’s a nice boy. Very sweet and respectful.” Mom said.

“Yeah,” I giggled. “ He’s nice. So… the both of us are kinda dating now.” I softly spoke, making sure and hoping they didn’t hear. To be honest, I was a bit afraid of being in a relationship. After Chase, I guess my mind built walls to block out any form of affection. Aaron broke those walls down. 

“That’s fantastic, Noah!” Mom said. She hugged me. I looked to my dad who had a stern look on his face.

“Honey! This is good! Be happy!” Mom said to my dad. Dad snapped out of his trance.

“Of course I’m happy.” Dad reiterated. “I just want to make sure he’s right for you. I know my son! But no sex!” Dad’s voice boomed through the walls. I covered my face in my hands.

“Oh God, dad! No, we’re not going to be doing that!” I was embarrassed.

“We should give him the talk.” Mom whispered to dad but I heard. Dad nodded in agreement.

“Definitely. Son, when a man and woman, or a man and man or a woman and woman-”

“NOPE! I’m leaving! Bye!” I stood up and walked out the living room before they could finish.

I slept that night with a smile on my face. Another one. Add that to the list. I’ve been smiling a lot recently. Kinda makes me wonder if maybe I’m in a dream or constantly high on drugs. It’s a feeling I’m growing to enjoy. 

“Hey, Noah.” Aaron said, walking up to me at school. I closed my locker, feeling happier with Aaron in front of me.

“Hey.” I said. I wasn’t sure if I should hug him, fist bump him, kiss him?

“So I wanted to ask if you’re going to my next game? It would be really great to see you there.” He spoke low, which turned me on.

“Wouldn’t miss it for the world.” I said. 

In an unexpected move, Aaron leaned in and kissed me on the cheek. My face burned and turned red. Onlookers gasped at Aaron’s actions. I too gasped at what he did. I know I said I was fine with Aaron being open with me, I just didn’t know he would actually do it!

“Let’s head to first.” He said. I gulped and nodded. He grabbed my hand, walking down the aisle with me. Eyes watched us. Some in envy, and some in glee. 

I was out of my comfort zone the entire day. No matter where I walked, there was Aaron. It felt nice not walking class to class alone. It was surreal. No one dared to bother us. We were in our own little world which had a huge sign saying ‘Keep Out!’. 

Eventually, Aaron has to leave for football practice. I walked down the quiet hall until a voice calls out for me.

“OH NOAH, BABY!” Gosh. That voice. Remember when I said everything in my life was going good. I just remembered why. Cause Mack didn’t bother me. 

“What do you want?” I spat at Mack. He doesn’t scare me anymore. Only one person does but I’m sure I’ll never see him again.

“So it’s true. You really are a faggot!” He laughed as if that’s an actually funny insult.

“So? Why does it matter to you?” I said. 

“Oh please! I’ve always known you were a faggot! I wasn’t surprised when you kissed Aaron. Though, I had no idea he was also a fag.” Mack said.

“If I remember correctly, you always kissed me and tried holding my hand. You called me pet names while claiming you were straight. I’m the fag? What does that make you?” I ranted at Mack. 

“That’s how you do it!” A female voice said. I turned my head to see the side hallways. There stood a girl with brown hair. Her hair was combed down to her sides. She wore urban outfits that are by far more stylish than mine.

“Not now, curry !” Mack yelled. Judging by the tone of that word and who it was directed to, I could tell Mack said something offensive.

“Ooh, curry. Good one! Listen here, Mack. I know the type like you. You go around and harass innocent people like Noah here just to cover up your insecurities. I bet you yourself are gay. Do us all a favor and maybe shut the hell up!” She said. I had no idea who she was but she intrigued me.

“Ugh! This isn’t worth my time!” Mack angrily groaned and left. I turned to the girl as she smirked while watching Mack walk away.

“I knew he would do that. He’s all bark no bite!” She flipped her hair. She turned to me and gave me a genuine smile.

“Hey Noah!” She said. She shook my hand, which I was thankful for because it meant she understood boundaries. 

“Heeeyyyyyy… Do I know you?” I tried not sounding inoffensive.

“Karishma. Kari for short. We’ve gone to the same school. But we’ve never talked.” She replied. Kari. I think I remember her. She was the one who let our pet hamster in third grade free because it was unethical for us to cage them.

“Yes. I’m the one who freed the hamster. For what it’s worth, Squeaks deserved to be free.” She added. I laughed.

“Yeah. But you do know he was eaten by an eagle five minutes later, right?” I said while laughing.

“Oh come on! How was I supposed to know he was going to be eaten?”

“Mrs. Frost said it was eagle season. You just yelled at her.” I responded.

“Well, he’s long dead now! Got any plans right now?” Kair asked me. Not to freak out, but I think I’m making plans right now besides with Aaron.

“Umm. I was gonna go to Red Star and come back to watch the football game.” I said.

“Awesome! I’ll come with!” She said. She walked next to me as we exited the school. 

“So you and Aaron, huh?” She nudged my shoulder. “How’d that happen?”

“It’s kinda a weird story.”

And one I’ll be happy to tell over and over again.

---

bye! i love you all!

32. $50

Aaron’s POV

I guess that was me officially coming out. I’d rather not put a label on it. I just want people to know that Noah and I are dating. We’re together which means I am taken and so is Noah. 

So far, I’ve gotten nothing but cheer. My football teammates cheered when I revealed my relationship. Mack wasn’t happy. Wasn’t sure if he didn’t like it cause we’re two males or if he was possibly jealous.

It was football time!

We ran out into the field as the bleachers cheered for us. I looked through the sea of people to find one specific person. There he was, sitting with a huge smile on my face. Next to him is a girl I’ve seen before since I moved here. It seems like she is talking to Noah but stops and traces where he’s looking. 

Said girl waves at me while I wave back at her. She nudges Noah, causing him to blush. A sight I’ll never get tired of.

Throughout the game, all I could think was our next date. Now that we’re officially dating, I want to go on a date with Noah. Solidify our relationship. There are… other means to tell someone how much you love them. 

But I think we’ll hold that off for now. 

The game ended. Just like every cliche movie or story, we won. Our side cheered while I walked to the edge of the bleachers. Noah was there, a smile plastered on his face. 

“Congrats!” He cheered. I hugged him back, deciding to let my actions show how much I admire Noah.

“Can I kiss you?” I whispered into Noah’s ear. I wasn’t sure if he was comfortable with me kissing him in public. Was I crossing a line?

“Yes.” He whispered back.

I pulled away from Noah and leaned into him. I kissed him with all my might. I heard the hollers of my mates and the audience. But at the same time, everything went silent. The sensation of the thumps of Noah and mine’s heartbeat synchronized. 

“I gotta take a pic!” The girl who was speaking to Noah earlier said. I pulled back from the kiss.

“Meet me in the parking lot. Let’s walk home together.” I said.

“Meet you there, Aaron.” How I love how he says my name.

I changed in the locker room.

“That was quite a show.” Greg said. 

“Why not show everyone how much I love Noah.” I said. I stopped when I realized what I had just said. Love. That’s a big word. And a big emotion. 

“Hmm. Love? If you say so.” He chuckled.

I met Noah in the parking lot. Home-girl was next to him showing him something on her phone.

“Look at this! You two are so cute!” She squealed. 

“Hey.” Noah said, looking up and meeting my eyes. He hugged me tightly.

“Great to see you.” I said. I wanted to kiss him but home-girl was staring intently at us.

“Just kiss, I’ll look away.” She turned her head but I still saw she glanced back. I kiss Noah.

“Gonna introduce me to your friend?” I asked Noah.

“Right. Aaron, this is Kari. Kari, this is Aaron.” I waved at the girl and she waved back.

“Great to meet you.” I said. 

“You too.” She said as she whipped her hair back.

“Is it okay if Kari walks home. Her house is on the way there.” Noah explained I nodded.

As we walked home, I got to know Kari more. I know her family is from India but they migrated to the US. Plus she loves Taylor Swift, so she’s good in my book.

One Kari was gone, it was just Noah and I. If I had the chance to spend my last moments with anyone, it would be Noah. Because I know that even if I had the shortest amount of time, he could make it feel like infinity.

“Let’s go on another date.” I said to Noah.

“About time.” He said. “Where to?” He asked.

“Let’s go simple this time. How about a movie?”

“Movie sounds great!” He said. I gave him a kiss on the lips. I knew we were in front of our homes. But who cares?

“Text me later. I want to make sure you get home safe!” I said, hugging Noah.

“We live across from each other.” He said.

“That’s still too far.” We pulled away.

“ ‘Night, Noah.” I said.

“Goodnight, Aaron.” And I gave him a last smile.

I entered my house to see my mom and dad next to the window smiling at me.

“I can explain.” I said. I began to panic. I forgot to come out to my parents. My dad is so strict I’m afraid he won’t approve of my choices.

“Gimme.” Mom said. Dad pulled out $50 and handed it to mom.

“Told you.” She said. Dad rolled his eyes and went to sit at the dining room table while I stood there.

What the hell just happened?!?

---

bye! i love you all!

<3

33. Someone’s Got A Crush

Noah’s POV

“I don’t even want to watch this movie!” Aaron said as I pulled his arm and led into the cinema room. 

“C’mon!” I whined. “This is the biggest movie of the year. Everyone’s gonna watch it. Hurry up!” Aaron made sure not to spill our snacks as I pulled to the room.

We entered and took our seats. We decided to watch Twilight: Breaking Dawn Part 2. Well, I decided. Aaron wanted to watch some new Disney movie about video game characters. I thought ‘NO!’ and basically forced him to watch the other movies.

“This is stupid! Why doesn’t she just bang them both?” Aaron complained.

“That’s not how it works. Just shut up and watch!” I said. Aaron huffed. I kissed his cheek, making him smile. 

After the movie ended, we left the theater, hand in hand.

“That was…” Aaron said.

“Beautiful!” I added.

“… horrible!” I chose not to argue with him. If he wants to stay ignorant, let it be! I’ll be more superior in taste than him.

“Ya’know, football would be more fun if I had someone with me…” Aaron led on.

“Mmhmm.”

“If only there was someone I had to accompany me.” He said.

“Tragic.”

“I’m talking about you, dummy! Can you watch me practice? It’ll be more fun if you watch me!” He gave me puppy eyes.

“Sure. Can I bring Kari?” I asked.

“Why not.” He said.

Come Monday afternoon, here I was at the bleachers with Kari.

“Look at them go!” She said.

“You don’t have to pretend you like the game. I’m just here for Aaron.” I finished my calculus homework.

“Aaron’s really good!”

“I know.” I said smugly. Of course he’s amazing. I’m dating him.

“I’m kinda jealous. You’re dating one of the best people at this school. Makes me feel kinda lonely.” Kari said.

“Oh come on! There must be someone for you. You deserve a great person!”

“Nah. Most of the guys at this school are asses. Besides, I don’t need anyone. I’m perfect on my own.” She whipped her hair as the sun glowed her brown skin.

I looked to see Aaron on the field. He ran through the field with his quick legs. I stared in awe. No matter how many times I see Aaron play, every time it’ll be like the first time. No matter what, he always amazes me and surprises me.

Aaron turned his head and met my eyes. A grin spread on his face while he waved at me. I waved back. Even in this distance, his smile continues to make me feel warm.

“Aww. That’s so adorable. You guys are literally soulmates.” Kari cooed. I blushed red.

“Let’s go. Practice ended.” I said. Kari and I began to pack all of our books as we headed down the bleachers.

We waited a while outside the locker room. Mack passed by us and scoffed. Kari hissed, yes, HISSED, at Mack, making him back off.

Aaron walked out, George following close behind him. Aaron’s hair was wet, making him look much hotter and sexier. He hugged me as soon as he was close enough.

The sound of Kari’s phone clicked, meaning she took a picture of us.

“Scrapbook!!” She squealed. George laughed deeply and Kari turned to look at him.

“Fuck me gently with a chainsaw.” She whispered. Despite her skin color, I noticed a blush come on her face. She stared at George who was talking to Aaron.

“Uh-oh. Someone’s got a crush.” I teased.

“No! No I don’t.” She blabbered.

“Oh yeah! Sure. Then why are you basically undressing George with your eyes?” I continued to tease her.

“Fine!” She whispered. “Can you give me his number? Please?” She begged. 

“Nah. Maybe you should ask him yourself.” It’s cruel, I know. But I know Kari enough that she just needs the courage. She’s bold enough to do it.

“Let’s walk home.” Aaron linked our hands together.

“George. Do you have any pictures of Aaron and Noah together?” Kari asked George. 

“Uhhh, yeah. I do.” He responded. His voice cracked a little. I saw his pupils dilate at the sight of Kari.

“Perf! Send them to me.” She sounded excited.

“Can I get your number?” From here I can hear Kari screaming in her head. George pulled out his phone and typed in Kari’s number. 

“Weird.” Aaron said.

“That was literally us when we first met.” I said.

“Thank you!” Kari said, I’m guessing she got the pictures and George’s number.

“Anytime.” George blushed. He rubbed his neck.

“K, now can we go home? I’m hungry.” Aaron whined. I rolled my eyes and we began walking out of school.

---

so uh, i realized a small inconsistency. in some chapters, george is referred to as greg. they’re still the same character but i guess the names are so similar i didn’t bother to check. whoops!

bye! i love you all!

<3

34. Steamy

Aaron’s POV

“Yo, who’s this guy with your dad?” I asked. I held a photo of Noah’s dad who was standing next to another guy. They both look young, probably in their teens. There were several pictures and as I looked through them, a lot had this guy.

“First of all, why are you snooping? Second, get out of dad’s office!” Noah said. He walked up behind me and took the picture.

“That’s my dad’s best friend, Michael. He calls him occasionally. He’s very nice and rich. They met when they were young. But they became distant when my dad moved up north to Crestwood.” He said.

“Did your dad explain why he moved?” I conjured.

“No. Everytime I bring it up, dad is hesitant to speak. It’s something we never bring up ‘cause dad always looks scared.” He said.

There was one picture in particular which was different from the others. It was of Noah’s dad and Michael. The two were standing next to each other. But Michael was a mess. His hair was messy and it looked like he’d been through hell. Both had smiles, well, Michael had something of a smile. It felt off.

“We should get out. Can’t imagine what dad’ll say if he saw us in here.” Noah said. We exited the office and went to the living room.

It’s important to mention that Noah’s family isn’t here. 

“Where did your family go again?” I asked.

“To visit Michael. Something about an ‘important event’ so they need to be over there.” 

“That means we have the house to ourselves.” I smirked.

“No. Not that. Dirty bastard.” He said. He left the room and returned with a blanket.

“What do you think I could possibly be referring to?” I sarcastically said.

We laid on the couch cuddling while a movie played on the TV. 

“Nice day to go out.” I said. Immediately the sound of thunder roared through the house.

“Nevermind.” I said. The sound of raindrops hitting the ground and window calmed us. A cold feeling swept and I cuddled the blanket closer to my body.

“Let’s go to my room. It’s warmer there.” Noah said. We walked up to his room and laid on his bed.

“Thanks, by the way.” Noah said.

“For what?”

“Just… being here. Existing. If you weren’t here, I would still be alone and suffering.” Noah said. I hugged him closer to me and smelled his hair.

“I’ll always be here for you.” I said.

“Kari’s been on my ass. She keeps asking for information about George. And I just keep telling her to ask him herself.” He complained.

“Aww. She just likes him. Let her be gushy about it.” I said.

I kissed Noah’s neck and ear. He let out a soft moan which got me excited. I continued to kiss his neck while he groaned and shifted in the blanket.

Noah then turned to face me and kissed my lips. He slipped his tongue in while his hands explored my body. I snaked my arm around his waist. I rested my hand on the side of his face, making sure to avoid the back of his head. His hands began to trail lower until I pulled away.

“Noah? What are you doing?” I asked. He looked flustered as his face was red and he panted.

“I want you, Aaron. I want you badly.” He said. 

“Are you sure?” I asked.

“Mhm. I want you to be my first.” He said. I was excited too since this’ll be my first time too.

“I want you to be my first too.” I said. I kissed Noah and brought his body even closer until our groins were touching.

“This is gonna be awkward.” He said in between kisses.

“But we’ll learn together.” I said. 

We kissed and touched our bodies and Noah began to tug at my shirt to pull it off. 

And that’s when I knew it was time.

---

bye! i love you all!

<3

35. First Time

smut ahead. you have been warned…

Noah’s POV

“Ow!” I exclaimed when I tried pulling off my shirt. My elbow hit my desk next to my bed. A loud thud sounded as I rubbed it.

“Are you okay?” Aaron said while trying to hold in his laughter. I smacked his head lightly.

“I guess.” I said and resumed to taking off my shirt. I felt a bit self conscious being bare in front of Aaron. I brought my arms to my chest to hide myself. I stared at Aaron’s bare chest. He was more muscular and better looking.

“Noah. You look beautiful. Absolutely stunning.” He said and kissed my ear and bit on the lobe.

“Yeah right- mmm” I moaned when he sucked a part of my neck.

Aaron glided his hand down my body. His fingers brushed against my nipples which were becoming harder. His fingers traced my slight muscles on my chest. Ragged breaths escaped my mouth. 

Aaron leaned in and kissed me again. His tongue dominated me. My hands went to Aaron’s back and made their way to his hair. Aaron brought himself closer to me. His body, now directly on top of me, allowed for me to feel him. His dick was hard and pressing onto my thigh. 

“God, you taste amazing, Noah.” Aaron traced his hand lower onto the rim of my sweats.

“Can I…?” Aaron asked. I nodded and hid my blushing face in the crevice of his neck.

Aaron put his warm hand into my pants. He found his way to my dick which was hard. Aaron gripped it and gave small tugs.

“OOH, AARON!” I moaned out loud. Aaron took the hint of my pleasure and stroked me faster. Aaron pulled his hand out and removed my pants and boxers. He latched his hand back onto my dick and jerked me off. 

“A-Aaron. I’m gonna-”

“Do it. Come for me.” He whispered in my ear. I groaned and exploded in his hand. Exhausted, I pulled Aaron to me and kissed him.

“My turn.” I smirked. I flipped us over, Aaron grunting at my movements. I pulled Aaron’s pants down and slowly pulled off his boxers. His hard, and might I mention long, dick sprang out. I can feel the warmth emanating from it.

“Suck me, Noah.” Aaron’s desperation was mixed with care. Unlike before when I gave Chase blowjobs, I can feel the love from Aaron.

“If you don’t want to, you don’t have to, Noah. I don’t want to hurt you.” Aaron rubbed my face. 

“No, I want to. I want you!” I grabbed Aaron’s dick and gave it small tugs. Aaron grunted and thrusted up to get more action. 

I brought my lips to the head of his dick. This is his first blowjob and I intend on making it his best. I took a bit of his dick and slowly made my way lower. All the while Aaron moaned words of appraisal to me. As I sucked more, the bed thrusted. Aaron moaned louder.

“OH FUCK, NOAH! SUCK ME! UH! FUUUUCKKK!” He said. He reached his climax when he came in my mouth. It took him a while to calm down before his dick got excited again.

“I want you to do it to me, Aaron. I really want you.” I softly and shakily said. 

“Whatever you say…” A grin plastered on his face.

“But go slow, please.” I pleaded.

Aaron positioned himself in between my legs. 

“Do you have lube?” He asked. Crap! I don’t. 

“No. But I have lotion. That can work, right?” Aaron nodded and got off the bed to get the lotion. I couldn’t help but blush at his dick which remained hard. He returned with the lotion and put some on his fingers.

“This might hurt…” I nodded in understanding and felt a small hint of pressure. His finger slid into me. I grasped the sheets of my bed and moaned. Slowly, he added more fingers into me. He reached four until he pulled them out.

“”Are you sure you want this, Noah? I’m about to slide in and I want to know if you really want this.” Aaron warned me one last time.

“I’m sure I want this. I know it’ll hurt, but I trust you to be my first.” I whimpered at the loss of fullness in my bottom. 

Aaron put lotion on his dick and positioned the tip on my stretched hole. He slowly began to slide in.

“OW!” I screeched.

“Sorry. Sorry.”

“Just hold it there for a minute.” I said. Aaron respected my wishes and didn’t move. I allowed myself to get comfortable in his presence. 

“Okay, now you can continue.” I said. Aaron slid further into me. I winced in pain and so did Aaron.

“Fuck, you’re tight!” He said. He slowly pulled out and slammed back into me. I grunted with every thrust of pain. 

“Wait! Can you move to the left a bit?” I said. The position began to feel uncomfortable so I asked him to move. He moved, but it hurt when his dick shifted inside. 

“Better, my love?” Words barely escaped my throat.

“Mhm. Much better.” I moaned when he started slamming into me.

The sound of rain hitting my window mixed with our moans and grunts. Slowly, the pain resided away, leaving only pleasure. Our moans were sometimes quieted when we kissed.

“Noah. I’m-I’m coming.” Aaron panted as he thrusted harder than ever.

“Fuck! Me too!” I moaned out loud. 

Sweat glistened on our bodies. Aaron let out a loud grunt and pulled out. He tugged his dick and came all over my chest. His other hand tugged my dick and I came alongside him. We laid there for a few minutes, catching our breath. 

“That… was… amazing!” Aaron said. He laid down next to me and held my hand. He kissed my forehead.

“It was. You felt amazing.”

“So were you! Let me clean you up.” Aaron stood up and grabbed a towel. He wiped my torse clean and threw it on the floor.

“Was I a good first?” I asked.

“The best.” He responded.

---

bye! i love you all!

<3

36. Pleasure, Pain, Panic

Aaron’s POV

“You fucking bitch!” Noah screamed at me. I turned to see him on the floor at the foot of his bed. I chuckled and put on my shirt.

“You okay?” I asked. He looked up at me with a look of humiliation and red of blush.

“What does it look like? I’m on the floor! My legs aren’t working!” Noah screamed. I couldn’t help but chuckle.

“Oh, gee. I wonder why…” The look on Noah’s face flushed even more. I bent down and picked up a naked Noah. I carried him to the bed and sat him down. He winced.

“I can’t believe we did that.” Noah said.

“Me neither. But I enjoyed it.” I said. I handed Noah his boxers and slipped them on.

“I can’t believe I lost my virginity! I’m a whore now!” Noah put his face in his hands.

“It’s not bad. Did you… like it?” I asked. I liked it but did Noah like it?

“I did. I really did.” He kissed my lips. I fell into them. In seconds, we were making out. Then he started laughing.

“I can’t believe… your dick was IN ME. Actually IN ME. And it felt good!” I stared at him like he was a psychopath. He continued laughing until tears spilled out his eyes.

“You’re welcome?” I had no idea what to do. He hugged me tightly. I let him hug me for a while. This was a great feeling. I rubbed his back softly.

“Wanna go get ice cream?” I asked. 

“Hmm. Sure.” He said. We both stood up. Well, I did. Noah just stumbled.

“Actually, can we go later? I need time to um… heal.” He said.

“Sure. I can wait.” I said.

A few hours passed. These hours consisted of Noah moaning in pain. I helped him stretch his legs. It was me after all who caused his pain.

“Are you better, love?” I asked. 

“I think so. But you might have to carry me a few times.” He said. He put on his shoes and we walked out the house. We walked a while to the town center until we spotted an area familiar to me.

Lotta Latte.

“You’re gonna get us the couple deal again, aren’t ya?” Noah asked me. I remembered the moment. I think that was during the time when I truly knew I was falling for Noah. It was also the time when the past trauma from Noah was exposed.

“Yes! Cause ya know, we’re officially a couple now.” I held the door open for Noah to enter. 

“Chivalry isn’t dead.” He said. 

We went up to the counter and saw someone from school working there.

“Sup, Aaron! Hey Noah!” He said. 

“Hey man. Could we get the couple discount?” I asked.

“That makes sense. When can I get you guys?” He said.

“I’ll get the almond ice cream and Noah will have the French vanilla.” I spoke. I remembered Noah’s order here last time. I turned and he gave me an approving nod.

We paid for our food and exited the store.

“You remembered?” He asked.

“How could I not? It was like our second date.” I said.

“Yeah but then I ruined it when I had a panic attack after you kissed me.” He said.

“I’m sorry about that, by the way. I never meant for you to get hurt.” 

“Hey, it’s fine. How were you supposed to know about my trauma?”

“How are your legs?” I poked at him.

“Oh, come on- you know what, fuck you!”

“Technically I fucked you.” I giggled.

“Yeah well next time it’ll be the other way round!” He licked his ice cream while pouting. Aww, he looks so adorable when he’s upset.

“I can feel your eyes on me, Ron.” He said.

“Ron?”

“It’s a nickname.” He said.

“Ron,” I whispered to myself. “I like it!”

“Well you better cause-” He stopped talking.

“Cause what?” I looked at him. 

He had stopped walking. His eyes were wide. His face became pale, almost like he’d seen a ghost. His lip began to quiver and his eyes filled with tears. I didn’t know what was happening. 

“Noah? Noah! Are you okay? What’s going on!? Talk to me!” I said. He dropped his cup of ice cream on the floor.

“It’s- it’s.. It’s…” He mumbled out. His words made no sense. I turned my head to see what he was looking at. I saw a few people standing there. One of them was a young guy. Older than us but still young. He looked attractive in some way. 

“It’s- it’s. Oh God!!” Noah was full blown crying at this point.

“Who is it?” I asked. He gripped my hand tightly and shuddered a harsh breath. I can feel a weight being placed on his chest, making him breathe harder. 

“It’s Chase.”

---

bye! i love you all!

<3

37. Meet Chase… Again

Noah’s POV

Why?

Why?

WHY?

Just when my life was starting to get its shit together, it throws a curveball at me. And now it’s shattered the walls I’ve worked so hard to build up.

What the hell was Chase doing back in Crestwood?

Nothing could add up. But then it came to me.

He’s probably here for me.

Why else would a rich person like Chase be here? If I remember correctly, Chase would probably be 20 right now. So a whole adult.

I shook in fear. My vision blurred. It was either tears or shock from my tormenter being in front of me.

“Noah? That’s Chase?” Aaron said. I had forgotten Aaron was next to me. I stood closer to him, wanting him to protect me. He said he would.

I nodded my head. I felt Aaron tense next to me. His fist balled and his arm veins popped out. If it wasn’t for Satan in front of us, I would have reached out and kissed him.

Then the next worst thing happened.

Chase turned and made eye contact with me.

A grin came upon his face. Even from this distance, that glint in his eyes I remember so vividly was enough for me to shake my knees. Chase began to walk towards us. I could basically hear his footsteps, like some sort of giant.

Aaron put his arm in front of me. He created a barrier between us. I was thankful he didn’t question my fear. It was like he could sense my precarious state.

Chase walked closer to us. Those few seconds felt like hours. He then stopped and stood a bit away from me.

“Well well well. Look who we have here…” His voice was deeper now. He looked a bit different. He was slightly taller and still had long tousled brown hair. He sported a 5 o’clock shadow. But I also noticed he and Aaron were the same height. And Aaron was far more stronger than Chase. I knew I could be protected.

“What’s wrong? Cat got your tongue? I always knew you were weak!” Chase spat me. Tears pricked my eyes and threatened to fall.

“Listen dude, get the hell away from Noah or-” Aaron said but Chase laughed.

“Noah? Already have a new boy toy!” Chase cooed. Anger filled me. My every being was now raging with anger.

“What the hell are you doing here?” I spoke loudly to Chase.

“I came to handle some… last minute business.” He slyly said.

“What business? What are you talking about!” I spat. Aaron rubbed my back and held me tightly.

“You see, I’m taking over my family’s business in a few months. I can’t have someone running around telling people we hooked up.” Chase spoke.

“So what, you’re gonna kill me?!” I laughed but was shaking with fear.

“Nah, I could if I wanted to. No. I’m here to… threaten you, to say the least.” Threaten?

“Walk. Away. Chase!” Aaron said.

“Hi there! Name’s Chase. And you are…” Chase held out his hand. Aaron swatted it away.

“A warning sign. Now get the hell out of here!” Aaron spat with anger.

“So I’m guessing Noah told you everything we did, huh? Did he mention he willingly did those things? And he never once said no. Until that last time…”

“He did those things because the hold you had on him! You forced him because he knew you would hurt him if he didn’t!” Aaron spat.

“Noah,” Chase turned his attention to me. His eyes brought back flashes of painful memories. “Did you already have sex with him?” He asked. I choked on my saliva.

“That’s what I thought. I always knew you were a slut. Nothing but a small, faggot, slut-” Aaron punched Chase in the nose. Aaron dropped Chase onto the floor and beat Chase. Swing after swing. Meanwhile, Chase was on the floor with a smile on his face.

“AARON! Let’s go!” I said and pulled Aaron off before he gave one last kick.

Chase stood up and spat a large wad of blood on the floor. We began to speed walk away.

“This isn’t over, Noah! You and your boy toy will pay for this! Just you wait!” Chase screamed. His threat echoed and stayed in my head. What was he planning on doing? Would he actually hurt me?

We ran for a while. Both of us simultaneously knew where to run to.

A few minutes and we made it to the treehouse. We entered and sat on my bed. A few moments of silence. I saw Aarons hand and noticed the bruising. I got up and grabbed a first aid kit and tended to his wounds.

“I’m not gonna let him near you. I swear, Noah.” He spoke in a demanding tone. I know I can trust him. But I refused to look him in the eye.

“Are you okay, Noah?” He asked. I swear, he’s always wondering how I am.

“No,” I sobbed a bit. “He’s right. I never said no to him. Does that mean I wanted it? Does that make me a slut?” I cried. Aaron hugged me tightly and patted my back.

“No, baby. He forced you. He threatened you. He was older than you. It’s not your fault. It’s his.” I cried into his neck.

“Are you still gonna protect me?” I asked in a sad, pathetic, quivering voice.

“Yes. Of course. If he so much as lands a finger on you, I’ll kill that bastard!” His fist clenched.

“I know you will, my knight in shining armor.” I spoke. Aaron flexed his muscles to show how strong he is. I know I can count on him.

“Let’s stay here for today. We’ll wait for your parents to come back.” He said.

“All I wanted was ice cream…”

“Well, since we’re here, we might as well…” Aaron led on. I kissed him hard.

But in the end, I knew it’s time I needed to tell my parents about Chase. I can rely on Aaron, but it’ll feel better if my parents were aware of this. In case anything happens to me and Aaron, they’ll know who to question.

---

bye! i love you all!

<3

38. Drugged

Aaron’s POV

I stared at Noah while he slept in my arms. His nose scrunched and made small snores. I looked around the treehouse and saw our scattered clothes on the floor. I kissed Noah’s forehead. He hummed in satisfaction.

Now, more than ever, I have to protect Noah. With the resurgence of Chase, Noah is in danger. When Chase was talking to Noah, Noah’s eyes were full of fear. I’ve never seen him feel so little than today.

Noah squirmed in his sleep. 

“No! No! Please! Don’t touch him! No!!” He said in his sleep. I hugged him tighter to me and he stopped and sobbed silently. He cuddled into my chest.

A few days later, the paranoia of Chase was higher than ever. Chase has been silent. Of course, that doesn’t mean his threat is gone. We know he’s planning something.

“Are you sure you want to go? I don’t want anything to happen to you.” I said. Tonight there is a party since we have our final game coming up. Noah insists he wants to come. I, however, don’t want him to. High school parties can be brutal places.

“I’ll be fine. Kari’s gonna be with me the entire time.” He said. He put on his jacket and opened the trapdoor of the treehouse.

“You coming?” He said. I got down and we walked our way to the sidewalk. We walked to the house. We met up with Kari at the front of the house.

“Yo! Kari. A word?” I said. Kari stopped and turned to me.

“Yeah?” She asked.

“I’ll need you to keep an eye on Noah tonight.”

“What for? Is something going on?” She asked. Kari hasn’t been informed of Chase. It’s not my place to say. 

“Just… keep an eye on him. If anyone tries to talk to him that you don’t know, take Noah somewhere else and let me know.” I said. Kari can feel the urgency in my voice.

“You got it! You have my word.” She said.

The party was in full swing. It was night and the only noise was the blasts of music through the speakers. I can barely hear my own thoughts.

“Let’s go get drinks.” I said. 

“You go. I’m not feeling it tonight.” Noah said. Kari also decided to stay with Noah. She winked at me. I know he’s in good hands.

I entered the kitchen where many cups laid all over. Empty bottles on the table a sign of how much everyone has already been drinking. I looked for a beer before someone grabbed my shoulder.

“Hey, big man.” Olivia’s voice said. I groaned. Why are annoying people thinking it’s okay to talk to me!

“Hi, Olivia.” I gave her an emotionless greeting.

“I’m still available, just to let you know.” She rubbed my arm. I set the beer down on the counter behind me.

“Olivia. I’m dating Noah.” I said.

“Seriously. You’re still with that fag!” She said. Anger flashed in her eyes.

“Yes I am. I guess that makes me a fag too!” I spat back.

“It’s probably just a phase. I know I’m right.” She pushed herself onto me. Her arms extended to cage me. Her blonde bangs fell onto her face. I felt her hands moving behind me. 

“No. You aren’t. Now kindly fuck off.” I’ve had enough of her bullshit.

“I’ll leave if you take a drink. Just one.” She held up a cup.

“N-No. I’m good.” But she didn’t listen. She forced the drink down my throat. It burned and tasted different. A sour taste lingered in the back of my throat.

“Good. Well, I’ll be leaving now.“ Olivia said.

She left while I wondered what happened. I stood there and the alcohol started to kick in. That was fast! Although I began to feel different. Almost like I was on drugs. That drink… something was in it!

I clutched my stomach in a panic. A few minutes of standing there, I slipped onto the floor and gasped for air.

“Now let’s get down to business.” A voice said. I squirted my fogged eyes and saw it was Olivia. What’s she doing back here?”

“Let’s go, big guy.” She said. She bent down and helped me stand up. My body did so. She balanced my body and her side. 

“Over here.” She said as if I was listening to her. Truth is, my senses were almost impaired. Like I was on autopilot.

“No- Noah.” I muttered out. Olivia didn’t listen and continued to take me away from the party. She walked into a hallway and led me into a vacant room. She pushed me onto the bed. At this point, the drug was now reaching its peak. I was immodbile.

“You have no idea how long I’ve wanted to do this.” She said. She unbuttoned her shirt and threw it. She was in her bra. I tried to crawl away but she pinned me down.

She was on top of me and kissed my neck.

“Stop!” I slurred. She didn’t listen and continued to kiss my body. She removed my shirt. I panted heavily, not because it felt good, but because it felt awful.

“Get off!” I said. She instead came back up and kissed my lips. I gagged. Then the door opened.

“Aaron?” A voice said. I turned and my vision snapped. There stood my Noah. Tears welled up in his eyes. Kari was next to him who gasped at what she saw. But what struck me next was the person behind them.

Chase stood there with a satisfied and mischievous grin.

“NOAH! WAIT! GET OFF, BITCH!” I mustered up all my courage and threw Olivia off of me. I stood up and put my shirt on. 

But Noah was gone.

I pushed past Chase and ran outside. Kari was there, a sad expression on her face when she looked at me.

---

thank you! i love you all!

<3

39. I Love You

Noah’s POV

“Anything going on?” Kari asked. I kinda knew that Aaron had asked her to keep an eye on me. I figured I might as well explain the basics of Chase and his threats.

“Yeah, actually. So, I don’t want to explain too much, but I’m in danger.” I said.

“Danger? What’s going on?” She asked. 

“There’s a guy who’s trying to get back at me for something. So now Aaron and I are worried he’ll try to do something.” I explained.

“I’ll make sure to look after you.” She said.

“Aaron said the exact same thing.” I said.

A few minutes into the party, I decided to have one drink.

“Are you sure you should be drinking?” Kari asked.

“It’s just one. Are you gonna drink?” I asked.

“Nah. Gotta look after your dumbass.” She ruffled my hair. I shrugged her off and downed a drink. The alcohol burned my throat.

I waited for Aaron to come back. Nothing. I sort of began to panic. I’m not clingy. It’s just… with everything that’s happened, panic is the only thing I can feel.

“Aaron isn’t back yet.” I began to shake my knee.

“Yeah. I know. Let’s go look for him.” We stood up from the couch. I stumbled a bit when I walked to the kitchen. No sign of Aaron.

“D’you think he went outside?” Kari asked.

“Nah. He would’ve told me. Let’s check in the hallway.” I said. Kari walked, I stumbled, into the house’s hallways. 

Standing in the hallway is a person whom I haven’t seen. Chase. He stood there in the hallway that was dimly lit. He looked like a villain waiting for the hero to come only for them to kill the hero.

“Kari! Let’s go now!” I grabbed her wrist and began to drag her out.

“WAIT!” Chase said. I ignored him and continued to drag us out of there.

“You’re gonna want to see this. It’s about Aaron.” Chase said. Upon hearing about Aaron, I stopped and turned. He had a smile on his face.

“Where is he?” I asked.

“Follow me.” Chase signaled for us to follow him. He walked back into the hallway. I hesitated to follow him.

“I’m coming with!” Kari said. We walked down the hall and Chase stopped in front of the door. Chase stood behind us and opened the door for us.

At that sight, I witnessed Olivia in her bra on top of a shirtless Aaron. 

“Aaron?” I asked but it was more of a whimper. Aaron turned to me and his eyes widened. 

I ran away and let tears slip from my eyes.

“NOAH! WAIT!” I didn’t stop.

“Noah!” Kari said while running behind me. I opened the sliding door to the backyard, thankful it led directly into the forest.

“NOAH!” Kari screamed louder. I stopped, gasping for air. I turned to see Kari, who had a panicked look on her face.

“Noah. Are you okay? Listen. Maybe it’s a misunderstanding. Maybe Aaron didn’t want to-”

“I need to be alone, Kari. Don’t follow me. I just need time to process it.” I said. Kari nodded and I walked into the forest behind the house. Maybe I should listen to Kari. Maybe I am overreacting. Still, I ran to the woods and continued until I leaned the side of a tree.

I heard the crunching of leaves behind me. I turned and the moonlight barely illuminated the figure behind me.

It was Aaron.

“Please hear me out, Noah.” He pleaded. I can see his pained face. I also noticed him stumbling and clutching his stomach. He looked hurt, or by the least, impaired.

“You don’t look so good.” I said. 

“Yeah. I think Olivia drugged me. Listen, she made me drink something and soon afterwards I felt off. She came and took me to a room. She started kissing me but I kept telling her off. Please believe me, Noah!” Aaron pleaded. Tears escaped his eyes. There’s no doubt I believed him.

“I trust you. Sorry. I guess I kinda overreacted. Forgive me.” I said. Aaron stumbled up to me and hugged me.

“I could never stay mad at you. I- I…” He said but hesitated.

“You what?” I asked.

“I love you.” He said. 

“I love you too.” I said. I enveloped him again into a tight hug. Kisses were exchanged..

“I think Olivia and Chase were working together.” I said once we pulled apart.

“What makes you say that?” Aaron asked. He adjusted his shirt.

“When Kari and I went to look for you, Chase just so happened to be in that hallway. He told me that he had something to show me regarding you.” I said.

“I did notice him smiling when you saw me.” This added a new layer of complexity.

“Aaron, what Olivia did to you is a crime. She’s done this before. I think you should report her.”

“But I don’t have evidence against her.” Aaron said. That is true. We have no actual evidence against Olivia and Chase.

“I know who we can ask.” I said.

“Who?”

“Kari. She’s really good at this stuff.” I said.

“Let her know! It’s time to bring down Chase and Olivia!”

---

bye! i love you all!

<3

40. Recording

Aaron’s POV

“Kari-”

“HOW DARE YOU DO THAT TO NOAH!” Kari grabbed my jacket and threw it at me.

“Kari just listen-”

“Huh? So you’re just gonna cheat on him!”

“Kari!” Noah said. “He didn’t cheat on me. It was Olivia. She drugged him.” Noah clutched Kari’s arm before she punched me.

“Oh. My bad. Do I need to slap a hoe?” Kari said.

“No. but we need your investigative skills.” I said. Kari sipped on her tea before setting it down.

“Sure. What’s up?”

“We think that Olivia and Chase, the guy who’s been after Noah, worked together to try and do something. We don’t know exactly what but it can’t be good if they’re willing to drug me.” I said.

“You got it! Leave it to me to uncover this shit!” Kari gave us both a hug before she ran out of the cafe. I sat there with Noah and kissed his forehead.

“It’s gonna be okay.” I said.

“I know. I can’t let Chase bother me.” Noah sighed.

“How about we go home.” I said.

Noah and I left the cafe and walked to Noah’s home. I said a quick hi to his parents, who had returned from their trip from New York. I said hi to Carla, who just threw a pillow at me. 

We went to Noah’s room.

“OPEN DOOR, NOAH!” His mom yelled. Noah turned red and slightly closed the door.

“So, what are we gonna do?” I asked him.

“If you think we’re gonna do it while my family is home, you’re delusional.” He said.

“Can we at least cuddle?” I asked.

“Sure. God, you’re such a baby.” He laid down next to me, him being the little spoon. I snaked my arm around his waist and brought him closer to me.

“Mmm. I could get used to this.” I sniffed his soft hair.

The coziness made the two of us begin to fall asleep. I cuddled closer to him, not wanting to let go. 

We both jolted awake when my phone rang on Noah’s desk. I picked up my iPhone 5 and saw Kari was calling me. We slept for four hours together!

“Hello?” I groggily spoke into the phone. I rubbed my eyes away of sleep.

“Aaron! Aaron! Aaron!” Kari’s voice spoke quickly into the phone.

“What, Kari?” I asked.

“I found out something. It’s huge, brotha! Open up!” She said. Open up? I looked outside Noah’s window and looked at my front door.

“I’m at Noah’s house.” I spoke.

“Oop!” I saw skip in her heels and run to the James’ door. “Now open!” 

“Who is it?” Noah asked next to me. I ignored him and walked downstairs to open a frantic looking Kari. 

“I guess follow me…” I said. I walked up to Noah’s room, Kari following close behind. We entered the room and Kari immediately sat on Noah’s desk chair.

“Sorry to interrupt your sex session, but this is important.” She pulled out her phone.

“Uh, we weren’t-” Noah was interrupted.

“Listen to this.” Kari placed her phone on the desk and pressed a play button. 

The audio started off with silence. Then a deep male voice spoke.

“That went better than expected.” I knew the voice belonging to Chase.

“Totally. Did you see Noah’s face? Hah! That little faggot deserves to be heartbroken!” Clearly that’s Olivia.

“Don’t get too cocky. We’ve got them apart. Make sure to keep your end of the deal. You do remember it, right?” Chase’s voice asked seriously.

“Yes, I know. Keep Aaron away from Noah by continuing to seduce him straight.” She spoke in an annoying nasally voice.

“And I’ll have a broken Noah to myself and finally take him down.” Chase spoke. Noah clutched my hand tightly.

“Why do you want to take Noah down?” Olivia asked.

“That’s none of your business! Just keep your end of the deal. You’ll have your man, and I’ll deal with Noah. Got it?” He asked.

“Geez. Sure thing. Did we have to drug him though?” Olivia said. 

“Do you want your man?” Chase said. We heard Olivia sigh. 

“Fine. Ooh! This is exciting.” The phone stopped.

The recording ended. I looked at Noah with a worried expression.

“When was this?” I asked Kari.

“Today. I followed them to a diner at the edge of town. I taped my phone under a table and watched from a distance.” She said. 

“How did you know they were gonna sit there?” Noah asked. I simply stared at Kari in shock at her skills.

“It’s a process of elimination. I searched the area and found the most private restaurant. It just so happened it was a diner owned by a close friend. Then I asked for a few favors and asked the waiters to sit them at a table where I taped my phone.” She said. “It’s more complex but I’ll spare you the details.”

“Fine. Thanks for this info, Kari. You’re a huge help.” I said. 

“Anything. I sent you a copy of the recording to you. Now we just gotta find a way to take down both those suckers.” Kari had a conspiring look in her eyes.

“Sounds like a plan. But I have something important to do.” Noah said. “I think I need to tell my parents about Chase, Aaron.” He looked at me with determination in his eyes.

“I’ll be right by your side, Noah.” I said to him.

---

bye! i love you all!

<3

41. Telling the Truth

Noah’s POV

It took me a few days to muster up the courage to tell my parents about Chase. I ran several scenarios through my head, thinking of different ways to tell my mom and dad.

I invited Aaron over to help me when things got rough. I sat my mom and dad in front of me at the dinner table, with Aaron by my side.

“Mom. Dad. I need to tell you something important.” I said softly.

“Son. You can tell us anything. We won’t judge you.” Dad said giving me a nod.

“It’s- it’s something that happened a few years ago.” I left some room for them to remember. “Remember when I got into that car crash. And then after I became different.” Mom and dad had a look in their eyes. I know that time since then has been hard for them.

“Yes. I remember that.” Mom said softly.

“And remember how I became closed off?”

“Mhm.” Mom’s voice was a bit softer.

“Well, that’s cause there’s more to that story than I told.” I said. I grabbed Aaron’s hand under the table tightly.

“It started when I met this guy. He was older than me, he was 17 at the time and I was 13.” I held back a sob. “He basically flirted with me. I worked at the Vacation Inn and he stayed there. He would buy me gifts and tell me how much he liked me.”

“Oh, Noah…” Mom said.

“He told me he liked me and we first kissed. But then… he- he made me…” I broke out into a sob. Aaron rubbed my back.

“Did you two have sex?” Dad asked. I saw him clenching his fist. I wasn’t sure if he was angry at me or Chase.

“N-no. But he made me give him oral sex. And everytime I refused, he would berate me. He called me horrible names and told me no one would love me except him. And everytime it worked.” I cried.

“So how did the crash happen?” Mom asked. A few tears escaped her eyes.

“Well, one day, he asked me to meet him. This time, he wanted us to have sex. But I put up a fight. I left him there and drove away but I was crying. That’s how I ended in a crash.”

“Keep going, Noah. They’ll understand.” Aaron whispered in my ear.

“When I returned from the hospital and went to quit my job, I saw he left a note for me. It said that if I ever dared to tell anyone about us, he would come and destroy us. His family is rich and powerful, so I never told anyone out of fear of him doing something to you guys.” I said. The spot was on me now as I recanted my story.

“Why didn’t you tell us earlier? We would’ve still loved you.” Mom asked.

“I didn’t want you guys to judge me. I didn’t want you guys to know that your son got into a car accident because he was fooled by a rich older guy. I was afraid of you guys blaming me.”

“We would never blame you, son. It’s that guy’s fault for doing that to you. He’s older. You couldn’t have known better.” Dad said.

“So why are you telling us now?” Mom asked.

I turned to look at Aaron. He gave me a nod.

“Well, that guy… he’s back. And he’s determined to silence me.” I said.

“But why now?” Dad asked.

“Cause he’s taking over his family’s business. He doesn’t want anyone to risk his future, so he’s here to do something to me.” I said.

“He’s already tried doing something.” Aaron said. “We went to a party. He teamed up with a classmate of ours. She roofied me, drugged me, and tried to make it look like I was cheating on Noah.” Aaron said.

“She drugged you? That’s a felony!” Dad raised his voice slightly.

“Yeah, we know. We have a recording of her confessing to it.” Aaron said.

“Does this girl have a history of doing this?” Dad asked.

“A few months ago, she tried to hook up with me. I told her no but she didn’t listen. She stopped when we got interrupted.” Aaron said.

“What’s her name?” Dad asked.

“Olivia Dean.” I said.

“And what about the guy who’s threatening you?” Dad asked.

“Chase Lexington.” I said.

“Wait… Say that again…” Dad said more warily. Something clicked in his head.

“Chase Lexington. His family owns a huge company and he’s taking over soon.” I said recalling the basic information.

Dad’s fist clenched harder. Anger flashed in his eyes. For a second, I thought he might lash out at me. Instead, he stood up abruptly.

“Excuse me,” His voice sounded pissed off. “I have to make a phone call.” He said.

“Don’t worry, Noah. I’ll make sure Chase doesn’t hurt you or Aaron.” Dad said. He exited the room and walked in the direction of his office.

“Mom. What’s going on? What does dad mean?” I asked. Mom simply stood up, a shocked expression in her eyes.

“Don’t worry about it, dear. Everything’s under control. Just… stay safe. Okay?”

“Okay.” I responded. Mom left and Aaron and I were left there wondering what was going on.

“Well, that went better than expected.” I said. I turned to face Aaron and he hugged me.

“I’m so fucking proud of you!” He said as he pulled me in and kissed my forehead.

“I’m proud of me too.” I said.

“My final game is coming soon. Will I see you there?” Aaron asked.

“You can bet on it.” I said. We hugged longer.

I finally did it. I told my parents about Chase. All that fear I had dissipated into nothingness. A heavy weight has been lifted from my shoulder. I can now breathe easier and sleep better.

And judging by mom and dad’s reaction, I have a feeling Chase won’t be around longer to torment me.

---

bye! i love you all!

<3

42. It’s All Coming Together

Aaron’s POV

The sigh of relief Noah breathed, I can only imagine the large weight that had been lifted off his chest. 

And now here we were, at my final football game. 

“Good luck, Aaron.” Noah said as he leaned down to kiss me from the bleachers.

“Thanks. I’ll be sure to play just for you.” I said 

“EW!” Kari said. We both turned to her as she leaned down to kiss Greg.

“EW!” We both said as they kissed.

“Come on, man. Game’s about to start.” Greg said. Noah gave me one last kiss before I left him there.

I turned to look at Olivia who was glaring at me. I simply smirked at her. Tonight, she’ll be walking out in handcuffs. Before the game started, Kari and I sent the recording to the police station. And now we wait until Olivia is finally taken away for her crimes.

What can I say, I’m a beast on the field. Noah awed like the first time he watched me. My muscles flex everytime I threw the ball. A dazzling smile plastered on my face. God I love Noah so much!

As soon as I landed the final touchdown and won for our team, everyone ran to the field and congratulated them. I searched around and found Noah standing there, looking for me. I ran into his arms and hugged him. I picked him up.

“AARON!” He giggled. I put Noah back down and gave me a huge kiss.

“I’m expecting a gift, my precious.” I said. He blushed, knowing what I meant. Kari and Greg came over to talk us, planning for us to go out tomorrow and hang out.

As we reached the parking lot, Olivia made her expected appearance.

“What the hell was that?!” She shrieked.

“Oh, it’s you.” I sneered.

“Noah! He cheated on you! Why are you with him!?” She shrieked. I had to cover my ears because of how annoying her voice was.

“We know all about your plan, Olivia. It’s no secret you drugged Aaron and were plotting with Chase this entire time to split us apart.” Noah said.

“What’re you gonna do about it? No one will believe you.” She folded her arms and smirked at us. Just then, the sound of police sirens flooded the parking lot. A police car came and parked next to us. A police officer got out and made his way to Olivia.

“Olivia Dean, you’re under arrest for drugging with the intention to commit a crime and infliction of bodily harm. You have the right to remain silent. Anything you say can and will be used against you in the court of law.” The officer continued reading her Miranda Rights. Olivia was thrashing around yelling for the police to be let go.

“I want my lawyer!” She yelled. Angry was not a good look on her. I gave Noah a hug. One down, one more to go.

“That was quite eventful.” Noah said.

“Let’s go home.” I slung my arm around Noah and walked the chilly night home. When we reached the front yard of Noah’s home, we saw a familiar figure standing there.

“Little Noah. I’m guessing you have something to do with Olivia’s arrest.” Chase said.

“Yeah. What about it?” He said, clenching his teeth.

“Olivia was just collateral. I guess now I have to do the real damage.” Chase said. I stepped in front of Noah to guard him. Chase showed his brass knuckles, implying he’s trying to hurt us.

“Noah, run!” I said. Chase tried swinging at me but I ducked. I managed to get a good kick at his legs. He fell and punched my side. We both fell on the floor, wrestling with each other.

“CHASE NATHANIEL EDMUND LEXINGTON!” A loud, booming voice spoke over us. Chase and I stopped fighting and turned to see who spoke.

Standing at the front door was an elderly man. He had white hair but you can tell he still keeps himself in shape. He wore a suit, but that didn’t hide his muscles. Then I remembered where I’ve seen this guy before. He’s Mike, Noah’s dad’s best friend.

“Get the hell off him!” Mike yelled. Chase obeyed like a puppy and got off me. Mike walked closer to us and leaned down to help me up. 

“Easy there, buddy. Sorry about him.” He said to me. His voice was much softer. “Now, YOU!” He yelled at Chase. His vein on his forehead popped out.

“Explain why I get a call from Petey telling me off all the shit you’ve done to his son! Explain yourself!” Mike yelled at Chase.

“I’m sorry, grandpa.” He said. Wait. GRANDPA!? I turned to Noah, who also had a shocked expression.

“Plot twist. I had no idea they were related.” Noah whispered.

“I knew that academy didn’t help you! Wait until your mother finds out about this!” Mike yelled. He began to pull Chase’s ear. Chase yelped in pain, although no one seemed to care.

“It’s what he deserves.” Noah’s dad said. We turned to see him smirking in satisfaction. Mike went up to Noah’s dad and patted his back.

“Thanks, old pal. I’ll make sure this jackhole doesn’t bother you or your family.” Mike said.

“No problem. Hope we’re still on for Christmas.” Noah’s dad said. 

“And you,” Mike turned to Noah. “Apologies on behalf of my grandson. I had no idea about his nefarious actions and him being the cause for your accident. Truly, I apologize.” Mike said. Noah shook his hand.

“Apology accepted, sir.” Mike pulled his hand away. I didn’t fail to see him slip Noah a $100 bill in his hands. 

“I want to apologize to you for my son assaulting you.” He said to me.

“No worries. Your son punches like a bitch.” I said to Mike. Mike chuckled. Chase tried to snap and run away but Mike’s grip on his ear was deadly.

“Well, I better take him back to New York. I’ll make sure to tell the board about your actions!” Mike said to Chase. “We’ll figure out what to do with you.” He glared at Chase. I found enjoyment in seeing Chase in pain.

“Come along. The jet’s waiting.” Mike said. “Ciao!” He said to us.

I turned to Noah and cocked my head to the side.

“No idea what just happened.” I said. Noah looked around and saw his father was gone. He leaned forward and put his palm on my dick.

“You’ll know what’s happening soon, Aaron.” Noah whispered in my ear. “Now that everything is safe, we can live in peace. And do whatever we want.” Noah whispered in my ear, more sensually this time. His hand never left my dick.

Hell yeah!

---

bye! i love you all!

<3

43. Sleep

smut ahead ;)

Noah’s POV

“Are you sure, Ron?” I asked the blushing and sweaty boy in front of me, laying on his back, bare.

“Mmhmm. Just do it, Noah.” He panted out.

I adjusted my lubed dick towards his entrance and slowly began to enter him. I stopped when Aaron breathed in a ragged breath.

“You okay?” I asked him.

“Yeah. Just need a sec.” He said. After a while, he signaled for me to continue.

From my experience, I knew Aaron needed the strength to get through this. And so I went slow and constantly asked him how he was feeling. When he felt ready, that’s when I would continue.

“I’m gonna start moving.” I said.

“Do it.” He muttered. I leaned forward and put my body on top of his. 

It started with small gyrations until it was full on thrusting into him.

“OW!” Aaron screamed. I stopped abruptly and looked down at him.

“I’m sorry.” I apologized.

“No worries.” He rubbed the back of his head. “I just hit my head on the wall.” He said.

“Oh-okay.” I said.

“You may continue.” Aaron said. I started thrusting again. Both of us were moaning loudly. Being in the treehouse and far from civilization, no one would be able to hear us.

Once we had finished, we layed next to one another panting.

“Wow.” Aaron breathed. “That was awesome!” Aaron covered his eyes with his palms and chuckled.

“I know right!” I said. Aaron turned to face me.

“Wanna go again?” He asked.

“Fuck yeah!” I said.

This time I bottomed. While topping is fun, I honestly prefer bottoming. Although I am open to doing both.

“I would so go again but I’m kinda feeling tired.” Aaron said.

“Go to sleep, Ron. You’ve had a long day.” I said. I stroked his sweaty hair. He hugged my waist and nuzzled his face into my bare torso.

“I love you.” He said into my skin.

“I love you too.” I said.

“Mmm you feel nice.” He said in a groggy voice.

“I guess thanks.” I said. I chuckled at a slowly sleeping Aaron.

“So soft. So beautiful.” He softly said.

“Shh. Sleep.” I said.

“Mmhmm. Sleep.” Aaron had officially dozed off. His small snores began to start. 

I layed there with Aaron hugging me. His fingers holding me like he never wants to let go. 

Is it bad that I want this for the rest of my life?

I began to fall asleep too as I sighed in relief.

---

bye! i love you all!

<3

44. Future

Aaron’s POV

I yawned when I woke up. The glistening morning sun entered the barely opened windows of the treehouse.

“Fuck.” I sighed when the pain in my ass seared through me. It felt like my ass was torn apart and my insides were ripped out. I wonder who did that?

I turned and saw Noah. Oh yeah, that’s right. Noah. I smiled to myself while watching Noah sleep. His adorable face no longer twitches with the nightmares that once plagued his mind. His small snores signified a peaceful mind and calming rest.

His eyes began blinking open. He squinted and shielded his face from the sun.

“How long have you been watching me?” He asked. He sat up and rubbed the sleep from his eyes.

“I don’t even remember.” I said. I went in to kiss him but he stopped me.

“I love you and all, but you have morning breath.” He said. He got off the bed and went to a small sink. Wait? Sink?

“Since when was there a sink here?” I asked. I got off the bed and limped my way over to him.

“It’s always been here. You would’ve noticed if everytime you came here you weren’t so busy flirting with me.” Noah handed me a spare toothbrush.

“It’s kinda like we’re already living together.” I said. We brush our teeths and returned back to bed and just layed in the same place we had sex last night.

“What time do we have to hang out with the others?” Noah asked.

“!2. We’ve got a few hours.” I said. I hugged Noah to my side and clutched him.

“Last night was…” Noah said.

“Hectic.” I added.

“Can you believe Chase’s grandpa came and scolded him? Definitely one of my favorite moments!” Noah said.

“Who would’ve thought your dad’s friend was Chase’s grandpa?” I said.

“And did you see when Olivia was screaming at us after she got arrested. Hilarious!” Noah began laughing. I joined in laughing with him. Soon we were gasping for air.

“Aaron.” Noah said my name softly. I turned to look at him. He has tears in eyes. But they weren’t from laughing.

“Noah?” I said. I reached out to touch him but instead he leaned forward and gave me the tightest hug.

“Thank you.” He said and sobbed. “For not giving up on me. For sticking around. I love you, Aaron. And I don’t want to stop loving you.” He cried.

“I love you too, Noah. You’re one of the few genuine people in my life. I couldn’t fathom losing you.” I said.

We hugged and Noah’s tears ceased until it was just us and our bare emotions.

“I know this is a stretch, but I really want you in my life. It’s like you are my life. So can you promise me something?” Noah said.

“Anything.” I said. Noah held out his pinky. I latched my pinky with his and joined them.

“Promise that you won’t leave me.” He said.

“Cross my heart and hope to die. I promise, Noah.” We let our pinkies go and kissed.

“I still have a few ways to go before my life is back in check.” Noah said.

“Like what?” I asked.

“Well, first, I want to reconnect with my family. I haven’t been the best son to my parents and I haven’t been the best big brother to my little sister and brother.” Noah said.

“I’m sure your family will understand that you went through something.” I said.

“Next, and I know this is gonna sound weird, but I want to get on good terms with Mack.” He said.

“Wait- you sure that’s a good idea?” I asked.

“I mean, yeah. If you were able to give me a chance, I can at least be friends with Mack.” He said.

“Anything else?” I asked.

“Mmm. Oh yeah. I guess go to therapy about my flashes. Definitely need to work on that.” He said.

“I’ll make sure to do the best I can to support you.” I said. I rubbed circles on Noah’s back.

“Can’t wait for next year.” Noah said.

“Things are going to be much better next year.” I remained optimistic for the future.

“D’you wonder what life is gonna be like after high school?” Noah asked.

“Not really. I prefer to live in the present. Worrying about the future distracts you from focusing on what you have now.” I said.

“I guess. But I want you in my future.” I said.

“Like I promised earlier. I won’t leave you.” I said.

“I love you, Aaron.”

“I love you, Noah.”

Cue the bells.

---

bye! i love you all!

<3

Epilogue

Noah’s POV

8

YEARS

LATER

Aaron and I got into the decorated car. The words ‘Just Married’ are painted in white on the hood of the car.

“NOAH!” A familiar voice yelled. I turned to see Kari, holding a bouquet of flowers in her hands.

“GREG PROPOSED!” She yelled. She held up her hand and showed off her ring.

“I’m so happy for you.” I stood up in my seat and hugged her tightly. 

“Congratulations, Noah!” Mom and dad said when they came up and gave me a hug.

“I always knew you would marry that boy when I first saw you two together.” Dad said.

“Congrats, NoNo.” Carla said and hugged me.

“Congrats, Bro.” Benjohn said and patted my back.

“Thank you for coming.” I said. My family left to talk to Aaron.

“Hey.” A voice said. I turned and saw Mack standing there. He held the hand of another guy. “I’m glad you got with Aaron.”

“Thank you.” I said. 

“Noah. This is Victor. My boyfriend.” Mack said. I extended my hand, kinda shocked to see Mack dating another guy. I guess Mack was always just in the closet.

“Pleasure to meet you.” Victor said. I shook his hand.

We spent a few more minutes before we had to drive off to our honeymoon.

“Can we make a quick stop?” Aaron asked me. I stared at my now husband. He had a beard and his brown hair slicked back. His sleeves rolled up made him look sexier. 

“I’d go to the ends of the earth with you.” I said.

“Guess that’s a yes.” He said. We drove until we made it to the edge of the woods. He stopped the car and got out. A plot of land was there and Aaron grabbed my hands and we went into the woods.

“Where’re we going?” I asked.

“Just wait.” He said. As we walked, I never left the grasp of Aaron. He has all my trust.

As we walked further into the woods, the area became more familiar.

“Oh my God.” I said when I stared at the all familiar tree in front of us. “What are we doing here?” I said as Aaron climbed into the tree house.

“Just get in.” He said. I followed close behind.

We stood in the treehouse that is rarely used now. I haven’t told my siblings about this place. This is mine, or well, mine and Aaron’s. Our original sanctuary. 

“This is where it started.” Aaron said. “I still remember when I was spying on you and following you here.”

“Yeah and you jump scared me.” I laughed at the remembrance of that day. 

“And you threatened me with scissors.” He said. He held up the exact scissors that were still on my desk. “Oh look at this!” Aaron held up a colorful plastic spoon from Lotta Latte.

“Woah! Is that from our awkward date?” I asked.

“Yeah. I’m guessing I must’ve taken the spoon with me.” Aaron set the spoon back down.

“This is the first place I told another soul about Chase.” I said. I sat on the dusty and springy bed.

“I remember I felt so special cause you trusted me with that info.” Aaron sat on the bed next to me.

“Remember the days when we would do it on this bed?” I nudged Aaron.

“Don’t tempt me, Noah James Stevens.” Aaron said.

“So why did you bring me here?” I asked.

“No particular reason. I guess I just wanted to go down memory lane.” He said.

“The plane is leaving in a few hours. We’ve got time to kill.” I said. Aaron moved on top of me, caging me beside his muscular arms. He began kissing my neck.

“Aaron!” I squealed. He got off of me and tickled me.

“I can’t wait ‘til we bring our kids here.” Aaron whispered into my ear.

“Kids?” I asked. Aaron looked at me and stumbled in his words.

“I didn’t mean to say that. I shouldn’t have assumed that you wanted kids. I-I guess-” 

“I would love to have kids.” I said. 

“Really?” Tears pricked Aaron’s eyes.

“I’ve always wanted kids.” I said.

“How many? I was thinking 5-” Aaron rambled.

“Five kids? Marry a cat!” I said. 

“I was only kidding. For now, let’s just focus on us and getting used to the married life.” He said.

“Still can’t believe I married you.” I layed back in bed.

“I can’t believe I married the shy quiet kid.” Aaron kissed my cheek.

“And I can’t believe I married the All American Boy Next Door .” I said. I smiled and stared into Aaron’s eyes that captivated me the moment I saw them in that office at school on his first day.

“And now we get to spend the rest of our lives together.” He said.

“Forever and ever.”  I said, kissing Aaron will all my will. Completely giving myself to him. 

I still remember when Aaron first asked for my name and I said we would never speak once he made friends.

And now, almost a decade later, we’re married.

And I love him so much.

THE END-

---

bye! i love you all soooooo much!

thank you!

IT’S OVERRRRR!!!!!

after 4 months, this story is finally over!!

i spent so much time on this story, and i don’t regret writing it.

looking back now, i can definitely see some plot holes. ex, greg/george’s name being changed. i also basically forgot about noah having to take medication. and i wanted to bring in roy (aaron’s bestie from new york) and add a small story line where he comes in.

probably won’t ever re-edit this story cause i would just cringe too much. but i’m still so proud of this.

fun facts:

in an alternative ending, aaron was actually dead

.

the ending was supposed to be noah retelling the story by aaron’s deathbed (aaron was brain dead after an accident). but i just couldn’t do that!

this was actually going to be a pilot to another story. noah was supposed to get into a car crash and aaron be by his bedside. i decided to cut this out because it would’ve thrown the whole story off and i didn’t want the other story to take place in 2012

incase you didn’t know, this story takes place in 2012!

the final 15 chapters are kinda weird, cause i didn’t have a solid storyline planned. chase wasn’t even supposed to make an appearance.

mack wasn’t going to even be mentioned at the end, but why not! i didn’t want to end his story on a sour note.

that academy michael mentioned regaring chase…… stay on the look out in the future…

the inspiration of this story was taylor swift’s ‘you belong with me’ music video. a football player and a nerd who live next to each other right across the window was the basic premise of this!

All American Boy Next Door

is over!

thanks for reading this if you made it to the end!!!

can’t even thank you enough!!

sending everyone virtual hugs and kisses.

xoxoxoxox

o

goodbye y’all!!!

i love you all soooooooo much!!!!

♥