LJ took the joint from Stephan's limp hand, grazing his fingers across the other's knuckles. Smoke bellowed from Stephan's full lips, as he reclined against LJ's bed.
"Man, that ain't right." Stephan spoke lazily, yet sincerely. "Fucking asshole."
"Yea, I know." LJ pressed the joint to his mouth. It was still moist; he held it to his lips longer than was necessary.
"I would never hit my boy," Stephan huffed. "I would never hit my girl's boy neither."
He rose abruptly, reaching for LJ. LJ flinched inwardly. How had he moved so quickly?
He lightly placed his palm on LJ's face, turning him slightly. "Ain't too bad--color ain't too deep." Stephan's voice was low.
LJ tried to avoid those glossy black eyes; his gentle touch had unnerved him.
Stephan's breath fluttered against his neck, causing a jolt in LJ's stomach. His breath hitched.
"LJ!" Michael staggered under his weight; LJ was getting too old to pounce on his uncle, to sit in his lap. But Uncle Mike welcomed it, invited it even.
"What's this--?" Michael's eyes narrowed, his face showing concern.
"Ah, it's nothing. Some kids at school just don't like me." LJ tried to turn his face away. Michael cupped his face, gently but firmly.
"What, fifth graders don't need to be looked after anymore?" Michael's smiled, examining the side of his face. LJ stopped resisting.
"You be careful LJ, OK?" Uncle Mike's eyes bore into him. LJ could feel his uncle's breath against his neck. It made his stomach jolt.
LJ lurched away from Stephan, covering himself with his hands.
"Whoa, sorry man, I was just lookin'." Stephan looked confused and a bit hurt. "I was just making sure you was alright, is all."
LJ stared at the joint in his hand, willing his body to relax.