I'm sorry for the long delay, but I had some crap happening in my life and I wasn't in any creative mood the past month, everything I added in the different chapters ended up being complete BS so I preferred waiting…
Disclaimer: Same as before :-), Nothing changed
NOTES:
A smutty sex-scene right at the beginning, it will be explicit so you're warned (Undertaker/Jeff Hardy)
The Show later on in the chapter took place in the UK, but for the sakes of my plot it took place somewhere around Texas
I'm aware that he detoxes pretty quickly, but that's only because I jumped days, so bare with me, thank you
Hope you'll enjoy this part of the Prequel, I loooooove reviews, so tell me after you read it :-)
"""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""
CHAPTER 00 – Prequel Part 2
Through Purgatory?
Dawning
Jeff woke in the morning when the sunrays started filtering in, wondering why he had slept this good and feeling a hand caress his back tenderly he looked up "Mark?", "Well I hope it's me, 'cause I told the guys not to try to get in your pants", "Ha ha ha" Jeff yawned and cuddled closer "You stayed with me?", "Yes, I thought after the stressing and intense events you'd like to have some company when you wake", "Thanx", "So I guess I did right", "Yes, Mark?", "Humm?", he could feel Jeff tensing against him, his voice a mere whisper "I'm sorry, really… I didn't want to lie to you or do things behind your back you know, I just… I… I just needed it to adjust to this place", that was exactly what Mark had wanted, one little admission on needing the stuff "Ok, but you know that needing coke to adjust is just one major proof that something is wrong, but really wrong", "Nothing is…" there was a sigh "Something may be wrong, but I don't know what it is", and all he wanted was help Jeff come to terms with everything, he kept a close contact, his hand still roaming his back tenderly as he answered, his voice soft "Well, I'm here to help you, so why don't we start with the obvious… In need of love?", "Hein?", "Are you depressed because you don't have a girlfriend? Or boyfriend?", "No, not really, I like my freedom in that matter", well that was one thing he could scratch from the list, so he went on with next that came up his mind "Ok, your brother?", "What's with Matt?", Mark elaborated "Things going on between you two that make you unhappy?", Jeff didn't manage to hold back a chuckle as he faked a sobbing voice "Besides him agreeing on you taking me here?", he added with a normal voice, still grinning "No, we get along just perfect Mark", the next obvious topic didn't need a lot of reflection "Ok, wrestling? You still like it? At all?", "Of course, you think I'd Swanton off everything like that if I didn't?", "I don't know, that's why I'm asking", "No, I absolutely love wrestling", "Even with the WWE and your tight schedule?", "Yes, I love performing Mark, so I'm ok with not having a minute a day to chill", "Ok, so your band? Anything going bad there?", "No, we just finished some great new songs"
So much for finding out quickly "Ok, so what the hell makes you so damn miserable that you snort like a fucking, irresponsible asshole", "I don't know", "Jeff", "No seriously", "Jeff", "I tell you, there's nothing, I just don't know why I feel this empty, don't you think I've thought it over already?", "Maybe I can push you towards it", "I don't know what it is", "You'll know when I'll press the right buttons Jeff", now Jeff was feeling different parts of his body waking up, especially this close to Mark and in a bed "Uhu, the right buttons, how about you helping me out with my libido before pushing my buttons?", "Jeff, seriously, I don't think making out will help you", "No, but won't make me more miserable you know", "You're a real moron kid", "But I'm right" and with that Jeff's hand started to wander down, stroking Mark's chest as it steadily moved lower and started to mass Mark's already pumped up cock through his boxers "Uhu, I see you wanted to keep that from me", Mark shook his head, a little moan joining his words "No, I just don't think it's wise to start doing this, that's all"
And then, instead of stopping what he was doing, Jeff slid his hand beneath the fabric and started stroking the now completely hard member, slowly up and down as far as he could in this position, innocently asking "Why?", it really was hard for Mark to not just give in, he bucked a little but still tried to reason him out of it, even if he was already sure he'd so slap himself later "You're troubled Jeff, you're depressed and this makes me feel like I use you", but he seemed to be the only one thinking it was a bad idea, since Jeff rapidly went on "Hell no, I'm the one starting it Taker", Mark chuckled a little, moaning before his voice could be heard "Yeah, I can feel that, but still, it's not right", Jeff was pouting a little, but his hand's movement didn't stop "Hey, you didn't mind a couple of years back", Mark was still trying to reason, but it became harder and harder, and that was not only the state of his cock, his mind started bringing back images from then, very vivid ones "Yeah, but you weren't this screwed up back then", "Uhu, I may have to destroy your world, but I was just as screwed up back then", he let out one last "objection", his body already very past objecting, since he was bucking every time the hand moved down "It was a different situation Jeff", Jeff halted his movement and squeezed softly, releasing the pressure before squeezing again "Ok, so you're telling me you wouldn't enjoy a little ride?", Mark was panting more than speaking "No, that would be a lie", "So, why don't you relax and let me take care of you, ok?", "Your logics scaringly convince me Jeff", "I'm glad they do"
Jeff slid lower and pulled Mark's underwear down and quickly replaced his hand with his mouth, and with that Mark's last barriers fell, damn, he could remember Jeff having given him his best blowjob ever that day, and this time it felt just as delicious "You're a bastard, you know I won't last long with your administrations kid", Jeff answered, not letting go of his cock and talking with it in his mouth, giggling a little "Oh, I'm sure you'll have enough energy left to continue", "Didn't you learn not to speak with a full mouth?", Jeff added his tongue to the party and that just did it for Mark, who came howling and bucking, growing hard again from sensing Jeff swallow it to the last drip, and then sliding back up to kiss him before cuddling against him again "See, it did you some good, it did me some good, and I'm sure that nice cock of yours will be ready to pound me through the matress in a matter of seconds"
Mark looked at him, raw lust in his eyes, he moved and covered Jeff, spreading his legs "You shouldn't have said that", Jeff smiled angelically and played with his lip piercing, nibbling on it "Why", "Because you'll get your pounding served now", "Sweet", but before he'd penetrate him he wanted to prepare him a little, this was about pleasure and he sure as hell didn't want to add soreness to Jeff's list of pains, so he started sucking on his nipples before gliding lower and, evitating to touch his cock he started to prepare Jeff with his tongue, knowing very well he'd make him go absolutely wild, and he was right, Jeff started moaning loudly, his body arching up as Mark continued poking him with his tongue, managing to push it in and make him somewhat scream with pleasure, he needed all his strength to keep Jeff from bucking, his hands were put firmly on his lower chest, one gliding up to stroke him before pinching his nipples one after the other "Maaaark", "Ssssh", he moved back up and kissed him, putting his legs on his shoulders and gently penetrating him completely in one trust…
Jeff clinged to him, pushing his hips against him, wanting him to move but Mark stayed firmly put, kissing him gently before starting to move slowly, very slowly in and out of Jeff, savouring the thightness that engulfed his cock, it felt so good and the little moans he could hear escaping Jeff's mouth made it even sweeter and it wasn't before long that his pace started quickening, and intensifying gradually until he was pounding him like no-one before, Jeff's whole body was reacting, his back arching as he tried to move in a counter-rhythm to Mark, he could see Jeff's orgasm built up and god it was sweet, first his pupils dilatated and his body tensed, before shuddering and bucking like a madman, a loud moan echoing through the room as he trew his head back, Mark followed him on the spot, Jeff having squeezed his cock inhumanly as he came and it took the Deadman a couple of minutes before any coherent thought would make it through his mind…
Mark's bad conscience came back to haunt him a little when he was laying there, resting with Jeff thightly snuggled close, he knew he shouldn't have given in, but had enjoyed every second, he sighed making Jeff stir and open his eyes "What?", "Nothing, I just feel a little evil for having done that to you", "Well, you're the Deadman, you're evil, but rest assured I loved it just as much as you did", "I know, I got a pretty good impression of that, and my back too", Jeff chuckled, putting a kiss on Mark's chest "Sorry… I lost it a little", "No problem kid, but listen Jeff… This was a one time thing, I didn't get you here to have someone in my bed but to help you, got that", "Humm, but we could, I mean no mushy relationship you know, but some occasionnal fun, no? I mean while I'm here", "No Jeff, I don't think that's wise", "Arf, so that means I'll have to live in celebacy here or what? And wank myself when I'm horny", Mark burst out into laughter "Kid… Seriously…", well it had been nice but he wasn't about to have Jeff Hardy as a lover, especially not with his mission "Well, yeah, you'll have too, sorry kid", "You're a real evil person", "Yeah, I've been told before", Jeff giggled "I'll have to rape you in that case", "Now do you", "Yes", "Well, I challenge you to try", "Well it worked perfectly this time right", it was never easy with Jeff, his biggest caracteristic was that he always tried to have the last word, the upper hand, and his sense of defiancy only fueled that even more "You didn't just say that", "But it's true Deadman, it's true"
Mark stretched and slapped him playfully on his ass "You're one cocky lucky guy", "One with a nice ass", "Yes, damn, we should have never told you, it makes you vain too", Jeff laughed "No, not vain" and leaned up to kiss him "You know you want me… So why not? I'm not saying every day three times, but this really did some good, I didn't get some for quite some time", "Jeff… You're not here to get some kid, you're here to come to terms with what is tormenting you, geez", his voice was a little pouty as he mumbled "Whatever", "Hey don't pout now, you don't want to switch coke abuse with a sex addiction", "Why not, with all the pieces of ass I could get in the lockerroom…", Mark chuckled, Jeff really was trying to have the last word "You're not there, you're suspended Jeff… And I can certify you that Vince won't make your comeback easy, so all those pieces, well they are far for now", "Damn, you and the fact that you always end up being right"
After another half hour of cuddling Mark got up, pulling Jeff out of the bed "Shower and Lunch", "Can we shower together?", "No", "Oh Mark please", "No", Jeff pressed hid body against Mark's, his hands roaming his chest "Hardy stop it", "Whatever", Mark pushed him towards the bathroom and left him alone, making his way to his own room and his own bathroom, grinning as his mind replayed what had happened…
They spent the afternoon in the gym, Mark showing Jeff some things for his back and went to bed early, Jeff yawning the second he had finished dinner, and Mark not being an asshole had wished him a good night and done the dishes alone before moving over to his office and calling Hunter "Hey man", Hunter put down his glass and stretched, laughing "Well well, the Therapist from Hell… How are you doing? And foremost, how is our national screw-up doing", Mark's voice showed he was fed up with Hunter and his comments "Hunter… Please, you're a grown man, I'm sure you can find it in your heart to forgive him", "Never", "Well, he's been clean for a while", "Wow, want me to send flowers?", "Quit being an ass, I have a favour to ask", "Oho", "Listen, I have to appear in four days, so do Shawn and Matt, and I don't want to leave him alone, you think you could talk to Steph or her father?", there was silence before Hunter burst out laughing "Absolutely not Mark, sorry… But if you can't trust him enough to stay alone a couple of hours you're proving me right… Do yourself a favour and drop him off at some rehab center… And get your life back, seriously", "Paul… He's ok, he's slowly healing, and by the end of the week he'll probably be experiencing the worst days of his life, and I'm not fond of the idea of having him detox alone"
There was another silence, Hunter more touched than he was admitting, hell he felt like proposing to jump in and watch Jeff, but then his memory send him flashes of the day he had been told of Jeff's results and the rage came back "It's only a couple of hours Mark, if he can't survive them, he's weaker than I thought… Let him smoke your hay, you know he wants to", the fact that Hunter seemed to have a heart of stone when it came to Jeff hurt him deeply "Dreadful… I didn't know this side of you Paul", Hunter sat down on his couch at his place and snarled, leaning back "Mark, he played us all, so please, if you're ready to let him fool you again, go ahead, I'm not that stupid", "I just want him backstage", "They won't allow it", "Unless you ask nicely Paul", "Have you forgotten I'm not with her anymore", "I'll remember this day Hunter, rest assured", "Hey, whatever favour I gladly oblige, just not when concerning that loser", "I got that now", there was a silence, Hunter thinking about how to help without helping and Mark wondering how to make him change his mind, but before he could come up with something Hunter asked him "What about Ric? We could call and ask him to fly down and babysitt", Mark had to smile at Hunter's disguised "help" and laughed softly "That is quite acceptable", "Good, I'll call him right away and tell him to get in touch with you", "You do that… And Paul?", "Yes?", "Thanx man", "Yeah yeah yeah, whatever… Bye"
Painful realizations
It started sometime in the afternoon, Jeff had helped him work outside but was silent and seemed far off after an hour, sweating a little too much too, Mark had a little idea what it could be but knowing Jeff he wouldn't accept it anyways, so he took him back to the ranch "Time to chill a little", "I don't want to chill Mark", "So what you want to do", "Don't know", "Not feeling so good?", "No, I think I caught a cold or something", "Uhu, a cold…", Mark went inside and got them something to drink "Can I ask you a question?", "Yeah, whatever", "Uh, snappy", "No, sorry, I'm just… just… I don't know", "Well, I have a pretty good idea kid what's going on", "Uh, and? What do you think it is", "Withdrawal", Jeff rolled his eyes and spat "Can't be Mark, I didn't use that much", "Ok, if you say so", "Hey", "You should at least consider it a possibility you know", "No, I don't", "Ok"
Mark knew the best help would come from someone who had actually been in the situation Jeff was in now, so he took the phone and sat down in his office, waiting patiently for Shawn to answer "Hey Shawn, it's Mark", "Hey, everything ok?", "Well, I don't know, that's why I wanted you to come over tomorrow… If you've got time that is of course", "What happened?", "Nothing really, besides Jeff throwing away trizillion bags of coke two days ago and now starting to be extremely restless and on edge", "Ouch, withdrawal at it's finest", "Yeah, but he calls it a cold", "I did too, remember", "Exactly, that's why I thought it'd be great if you could talk to him", "Ok, we said we'd get him through this, we'll get him through it", "Thanx Shawn", "No problem, see you tomorrow", "Yeah, bye", "Bye"
Shawn arrived around ten, yawning after a two hour drive after a long evening and started looking for Mark, not finding him immediately but Jeff who was laying outside in the shadows, his guitar next to himself and sighing and fidgeting "Hey… A rainbow under a tree", Jeff's head snapped up, glaring before recognizing Shawn "Shawn? What are you doing here", "Told you I'd come and visit you", "I've only been here two weeks", "I know, so what? I've had some time on my hands and the weather is really magnificent", "Cool", "How are you feeling", "Brooding on a cold", "Uhu, you don't look that good", "I don't feel any good either Shawn", Shawn inhaled deeply but didn't say anything about what he thought it really was, he knew Jeff would only become defensive if he started it like this, so he worked on a different plan "So Jeff, feel like going for a little ride", "No, I don't think I should get on a horse Shawn", all he got was mocking and laughter, Shawn dropping on his knees and laughing his ass off "You serious?", "Hey man, stop it", "Ok ok, we can walk a little… Mark showed you the river?", "Yes", "So, wanna go and swim a little?", "I'm already ill Shawn, I don't think that would be wise", "You're not ill Jeff and now move it" , Shawn just pulled a pouting Jeff along, very decided on having a heart to heart discussion with the younger man…
By the time the sun was setting Jeff was seriously sick, and if he had already qualified the sweating as annoying, the shaking that started to chill him to the bone just added to his pains, he sat there, eyeing the food with a disgusted frown, hugging his knees and trying not to vomit at the sole thought of having to eat something, luckily for him not Mark nor Shawn were that stupid and so they didn't lose a word about the younger Hardy's state and enjoyed their dinner as much as was possible "Humm, delicious Mark", "Thanx Michaels", "You've always been the best cook around", "I know", Shawn's eyes moved over to Jeff "You're ok kid?", "No", "I can see that, you should go and lay down Jeff", "Yes, you should, I'll make you a nice tea", "I don't want tea dammit" and with that, Jeff got up and stomped off to the outdoor couch and curled up, wining miserably to himself and sobbing, Shawn and Mark both a little worried, finished dinner, Shawn starting to clean the table as Mark went over to check on Jeff…
The Undertaker got down next to him, pulling him into a sweet embrace "Hey Jeff", his hand stroking his hair gently "It will take a couple of days, but once you're through them, you'll be feeling better", "I need a doc Mark, I've got a mean cold", "No, all the drugs are now out of your system and that's why you're feeling this crappy", "That's bull Mark", "Oh no Jeff, it ain't, you're detoxing kid", "I never felt this bad Mark", "Well, maybe you've always used something and this is the first time you're really sober", "Bull", "I'm trying to help kid, at least try to admit I may be right", Shawn joined them after having done the dishes and moved everything away, putting down a cup of tea on the table for Jeff before sitting down on Jeff's other side and pulling his legs over his "Oh Jeff, if I had known you were that far gone I'd intervened a long time ago", "I'm not that far gone dammit", the tremors that shook his body told a different tale, and Mark gave Shawn a headshake, the moment wasn't right for Jeff to see how bad he was screwed up actually…
Shawn moved his things inside, but even if he took the room next to Jeff's he was decided on sleeping with him, he knew his state would only worsen and wanted to be there for him all the way, Mark nodded and gave him a little smile before going down to check with Ric if he could make it over…
The Heartbreak kid moved over to the bed where Jeff was already curled up and lay down, pulling the younger man into his arms "Shhh, I'm here Jeff, you'll be ok", Jeff started coughing and jumped up, running to the bathroom, Shawn shaking his head saddened, he knew how crap he was feeling, the shakings, the pain, the throwing up, the impression that you've got absolutely no energy left, the depression and the racing heart, pushing his memories back he got up and followed Jeff, getting down behind him and keeping his hair back, leaning against his back, whispering soothing words as his free hand was roaming his back…
As Shawn was guiding Jeff back to the bed, Mark was on the phone with Ric, who had already his bags packed and a flight booked and was looking forward to watch Jeff a little "Thanx Ric, he really can't stay alone", "I know that and I've got time, even if I didn't I'd come Mark, he needs all the help he can get", "What time are you landing?", "Around noon", "I'll come and pick you up", "You do that… See you tomorrow Mark", "Yes, bye"
Jeff's night proved to be a real ordeal, between throwing-up on a completely empty stomach and the shaking that intensified the only thing keeping him sane was Shawn's presence, the embrace that seemed to not let him go, Mark came to replace him shortly for breakfast, before letting the two men alone and driving off to the airport to pick up Ric…
When they got back, Shawn had managed to get Jeff to get up and come downstairs, even though his position was still curled up next to him and the paleness of his face showed he was far from ok, it hurt Ric to see him like that, and he shook his head "Oh Jeff, no, I'm…", he was speechless and sat down in front of Jeff taking his hand in his "Kid… And there you said you were ok", "Ric?", "Yes, kid, it's me", "What are you doing here", "Came to see you… Those two baboons have matches, so you'll have to live with me around you for a day", "Oh", Jeff tried to sit up but Shawn prevented it "Stay down Jeff, it's ok", Ric nodded and gave him a little smile "You stay like that, I'll go and get settled in"
Shawn and Mark left early in the evening leaving Ric alone with Jeff sitting outside, Ric was reading silently, one hand stroking Jeff's neck, Jeff who was laying next to him and moving a lot, not finding any comfortable spot "Jeff… You'll feel bad whatever position you'll have, so stop moving like that, you'll end up hurting your back", "My back is already hurt Ric", "You feel pain?", "I feel so many things I'm not sure anymore", "How could you let it degrade like that?", "What?", "Your life", "I didn't let anything degrade", "Oh yes, for being this sick you'd have to have a real big issue kid"
The second Matt saw Mark he made his way over and sat down "How is he?", "Hello Matt, don't forget your manners please, it is custom to greet people before asking them things", "How is he Mark", "He's… bad, really bad Matt, he has heavy withdrawal", "And you left him alone?", "No, Ric is with him", "Flair?", "Yes, Flair", Matt sighed and nodded, still looking miserable but less panicked "When can I see him?", "Well, whenever you want, I just wouldn't do it now Matt, he's really in a bad shape and I'm not sure you want to see your baby-brother in that kinda state kid", as they were talking about him, Ric was making Jeff move a little, a little walk around the ranch, with a pouting and vascillating Jeff who felt like his muscles had been torn out "Ric I can't… Please", "Just around and then you can lay down again", "I'm getting sick again", not a second later he dropped on his knees and started throwing up again, a rather painful experience considering his stomach was more than empty, it took Ric a good twenty minutes to get him back "I think we should call it a day and get you in your bed", Jeff was too weak to protest and let him carry him upstairs, help him undress and put him under the covers, his voice a mere whisper "Ric… Please… Could you…", "Could I what kid?", "Stay with me", "Beg your pardon?", "I don't want to stay alone… Please", Ric pondered the request for a moment, then turned and walked to his room to change and get his notebook and a book, Jeff's eyes watering as he believed Ric to just have let him alone, after a minute the Nature Boy got back in, opened the window a little and got comfortable next to Jeff and pulling him closer "Try to rest a little, I'm not tired yet, I'll watch you ok", "Thank you Ric", "Don't mention it"
After the show Shawn searched for Matt, who was lost in thoughts in his lockerroom "Hey, how are you keeping up", Matt finished packing not even looking up "Better than Jeff", "Yeah, he ain't passing a good time", their eyes crossed and Shawn could read all the anguish and the fear in them "How bad is he Shawn, honestly please", he sat down, sighing but staying honest and admitting, his voice low "Well, shaking, throwing-up, depressed and not sleeping at all", Matt had tears in his eyes "I… Damn", Shawn slid closer and squeezed his shoulders before hugging him friendly "Hey, he'll be ok Matt, it will be unpleasant days, but afterwards he'll feel perfectly fine again", "How did… How did you feel when you went through it", "I begged for a quick death Matt", "You think I should call him?", "Hey, that's a great idea", Shawn fished his cellphone out of his pocket and dialled Ric's number, Ric who was checking his mail with Jeff stretching a little next to him "Hello?", "Hey, it's Shawn", "Michaels? Something happened?", "No, someone here wants to talk to Jeff, is he ok?", "Sure", he handed Jeff the phone, shrugging his shoulders when he asked who it was "Hello?", "Hey Jeff", Jeff sat up and leaned on the pillows "Matt… Hi, how are you?", Matt was glad that Jeff didn't seem to hate him for having send him along with Mark "Well, I'm ok, what about you", "I'm ok too", "You're sure bro?", "Yeah, why? Why are you asking?", "Hey, relax, I just worry Jeff that's all", "Well don't, I'm ok", "I just wanted to check you know, I'm happy to hear you're ok", "Yeah, me too", there was an awkward silence, before Matt cleared his throat "Well, I'll call you again soon ok", "Yes, take care Matt", "You too bro", "Bye", Jeff hung up and tried to avoid Ric's eyes "Hey Jeff, you're ok?", "Yeah", "Uhu, you don't seem ok kid", "Well I am", "Ok, if you say so"
They got back way past midnight and found both Jeff and Ric asleep, Ric still wearing his glasses and in a sitting position, leaning back on an armada of pillows and Jeff's head buried in his lap and protectively held there by Ric's arm around his back, a book discarded on the floor, the whole view made Mark smile, especially the fact that Jeff was asleep, he hadn't been in days and it would do him some good, he entered and pulled the covers over the two men, then got downstairs where Shawn was sitting and sipping on a beer "How are they?", Mark gave him a small smile "Asleep", Shawn stared at him in disbelief "Jeff is sleeping?", "Yes", "That's really good", "Yes it is", "He'll start feeling better", "Let's hope so", "I know it Mark, when I started sleeping a couple of hours in a row again, I started getting better quickly", "I know that too Shawn", they soon called it a night and Mark checked on Jeff again, who was still laying in the same position against Ric…
The next morning Ric had to smirk upon realizing their position, and the fact Jeff was still very much out just made his smile widen, he moved slowly as to not wake Jeff and stretched before heading off for a shower and breakfast, he met Mark half an hour later downstairs "Good morning, how's Jeff?", "Still out cold", "Good", "Yeah, I'm glad he finally can rest a little, his body really needs it", "Don't forget his mind", "Well, mentally it works better than physically", "Still", "I'll go and check on him, help yourself to whatever you want Ric", "Will do… Shawn still here too?", "Yes, probably still asleep", Ric followed Mark with his eyes laughing before filling a cup with coffee and going outside, Mark went upstairs and sat down next to Jeff, who was in the process of waking up "Hey kid", Jeff yawned and stretched a little "Hey Mark", "How are you feeling", "Don't know… Weird", "Ok, better or worse?", "Better I guess", "Good… I think you should come downstairs and try to eat something", "Euuh, no, no food please", "Jeff, you need to start eating again or you won't be able of getting up in a couple of days", "Not now ok?", "Ok, not now, but tonight ok?", "I'll try", "Ok"
It took Jeff a lot of strength to make it downstairs, Shawn immediately next to him to help him outside "You're feeling better", "I think so, I don't know, I feel weird you know", "I can imagine… Come, sit down", Jeff yawned and got down, curling up immediately and closing his eyes "Still tired", "Like hell", "Ok, well, rest some more", "Hummmm", "Mark is driving Ric to the airport", "Hummm", "Ok, I'll let you rest, wanna eat or drink something?", "Nooooo", "Ok", Shawn went back inside to get a glass of juice before sitting down next to Jeff "You're lucky you know", "Why?", Shawn shook his head and kept it vague "It took longer with me", "What took longer?", their eyes locked "The feeling worse than shit, the throwing-up, the shakings", "It's a cold, guess I got lucky", "A cold? No Jeff, and the longer you'll believe that, the bigger the chance gets that you'll do the same bull again", he wasn't ready to hear that, or to aknowledge the fact that he had problems and pouted "Shawn, please", still playing with Jeff's locks Shawn shook his head again "No, nothing Shawn please dammit, you have problems Jeff, real bad-ass problems, and all we ask is to help you… Ok you detoxed and the crap is out of your system, but you'll need to make changes in your life or you'll be at the same point in a couple of months", "No I won't", "Ok, but still, you can't get any title without shaping your body kid, seriously, they're all way bigger than you", "Sooo", Shawn was losing his patience slowly but surely "So, you need to work-out", "Pfff", "Yeah, see, pfff, you need to want to change something"
There was a lengthy silence before Jeff whispered "I know Shawn, I'm aware of what I've managed to do this time… Hunter is… he's… he hates me… Vince won't let me back anytime soon… Mark and you… and Ric… You guys have to plan your lifes according to my state… Matt… He's worrying like crazy… And I'm feeling so, so empty", Shawn stared at him before hugging him, moving him up in his arms "Well, I'll help you feel better Jeff… As for Hunter" he knew they were both hurting, even if in completely different ways, and that the loss of the friendship that Jeff had been so happy about, after years of proving Paul he wasn't a screw-up, was working him "You need to gain his trust back you know, he needs to see that you've changed and that you won't fail any tests anymore… And he's just as stubborn as you are you know, so it will take time…", he wiped Jeff's tears away, his voice soft "And you still have Mark, Ric, me and the others, you won't have to go through anything alone Jeff, never"
When Mark got back they were still talking, Jeff comfortably laying his head in Shawn's lap, eyes locked with his and voice calm and whispering, Mark let them alone and went to go and take care of some things before coming back outside and sitting down next to them, eating an apple "So, had a nice morning guys?", "Perfect Mark, Jeff and I talked", "Good…" he didn't want to ask rightaway about what so he leaned back, only looking at them, until Jeff asked "What is going on Mark?", "Nothing, nothing at all, I'm thinking that's all", "About?", "Everything and nothing kid"
Enlightment (3 Days later)
Mark was more than astonished to find Jeff already up and dressed, especially since Shawn had left early in the morning an dhe had heard them discuss until late, very late even, so seeing that Jeff was waiting for him made him smile "Hey, you're up already", "Uhu, yeah, I really felt like moving my ass you know", "Good, let's go for a run", "Ok", Mark followed Jeff and soon they were having a race to the river, Mark needing to slow Jeff a little "Hey, don't go racing off like that, this is supposed to enhance your physical condition kid", "Yeah yeah yeah, I still won", "It ain't about arriving first but arriving without being out of breath Jeff", Mark had to laugh at the cute pout he received, Jeff undressing and jumping in the river "Ha, this is so refreshing", "Yeah, I can imagine", "You're coming?", Mark cocked his head and gave him a victorious grin "No, I'm not that sweaty already kid, I actually take my cardio training seriously", he sat down on a rock and enjoyed the morning sun, Jeff coming out of the water after ten minutes and laying down naked to dry "You could help me dry Mark", "I could also not touch you Jeff", "Pfff, seriously, you're boring", "No, I control my libido that's all", after another ten minutes Jeff started getting dressed again and they could continue their little jogging, Jeff staying next to Mark this time "Mark?", "Humm", "Can you help me work my back when we get back?", "Sure", "Thanx", "No problem kid"
They continued their workout in Mark's gym, Jeff for once not feeling bored and listening to Mark's advices, making the Deadman wonder what could have changed the young man's attitude "Listen Jeff, don't take it the wrong way, I'm really happy to see you're back on the track and everything, but what made you change your mind like that?", continuing to lift his weights he looked at Mark and mumbled "Shawn", "Oh", "We talked… And I realized some things", "Oh", "Yeah, I'm not that stubborn and immature Mark", Mark sighed and shook his head "I never thought you were Jeff, defiant and screwing up to annoy people yes, but not blind to the facts… I'm glad Shawn found the right words to get to you", "Somehow me too", "But still, I think we should stop now, too much won't do you any good either", "Just another half hour Mark… Please", "Well, you do, I'll go and prepare lunch", "Ok"
Jeff arrived in the kitchen an hour later, Mark shaking his head "You should listen to me and keep it slow kid, you're doing too much too fast", "I have to Mark", "And why is that?" he sat down and stared at Jeff, who was fidgeting a little on the chair under the gaze "Well… I want… want to make a real comeback you know, I want to be already in a perfect shape and show them all that I can do it", "Ok, but this afternoon you'll chill kid, got me", "Whatever", "Yeah whatever…"
The next two weeks were passing in a heartbeat, Jeff religiously working out every day and Mark glad he could see his muscles built up and his condition improve, so one afternoon he took his phone and sat down, calling Vince "McMahon… I have something to talk to you about", "Let me guess… Hardy", "It's been two months, he's clean and working out every day, he's ready to come back", "Mark I'm not even sure I want him back, in good shape or not you know, he's a real reliability, he could fall back in his old ways and screw-up again", "I'll vouch for him", "You're sure you want to do that", "More than sure, and I know that I won't be the only one, add Michaels, Glen, Ric and Matt to the list too", "Mark, if I take him back, and I say if, what would you do if he fucked up again", "He won't Vince, he learned his lesson and he's ready to prove it to everybody", "Well, I have to think about it, I'll get back to you", "Fair enough"
His next phone call was with Hunter "Paul, how are you?", Hunter chuckled, his voice somewhat ironic "Fine… But not sure it will stay that way", Mark's voice was serious "Listen, I need you on this", "On what exactly?", "Getting Jeff back", "Ho ho ho, no, I told you I'm not getting involved", "You just have to tell Vince that he should take him back, that's all", "But I don't want him back Mark", "Stop acting childish Paul", "No, I'm acting in the best interest of the company, something you used to do too", "I'm doing just that, he's ready Paul, plus I'll keep an eye on him, so what do you say", "Damn, I'll think about it", "Great, just think it over fast and right", "Will do", when Hunter hung up he buried his head in his hands, he hadn't thought for a second that two months could pass that quickly, he wasn't ready to act civilised around Jeff already, he didn't want to have to see him, or even worse wrestle him, but denying him his chance, now that Mark had spent all those weeks working with him wasn't an option either, sighing he dialled a number he knew all too well…
Vince's call came late at night, Mark sighing and pushing Jeff off his lap before answering it "This better be good", "Mark? It's Vince", "Oh, hello McMahon", "Listen, I thought it over and spoke to some people, even if I'm still not convinced it is a great idea, I trust you and your judgement", "Meaning?", "Meaning he can come back, but there's a couple of strings attached", "What?", "He's tested every week and if there is the slightest problem he's gone again", "That all?", "As far as I'm concerned yes… He'll be with Raw for now…", "I'll tell him", "Good, and you better warn him to keep a low profile Mark, I'm not kidding", "Yeah yeah yeah", and the line went dead, Mark not interested in some more treatening and advising, his eyes met Jeff's who had been listening, woken up by Mark's voice "What was that about?", "Well, you're officially back in the game kid, your contract will be ready at the next Raw show", "You're serious?", "Ever seen me not serious Jeff?"
Jeff let out his emotions and hugged Mark, tears flowing freely "Thank you so much, I… I couldn't have done it without you, you know", Mark shook his head, wiping away some of the tears "You did it Jeff, by yourself, you've grown a lot, but you need to continue to work on yourself", he got a nod as answer, and Jeff's voice was merely a whisper as he looked down embarrassed "Listen… I know this may be weird, especially since I at first didn't want to come, but… could I stay a little longer… Just to make sure I'm really really ok", Mark ruffled through his hair, hugging him close "Of course, and I want you to know that I'm really proud of you Jeff… And I know you'll be ok from now on", "I hope so", "Hey, why so pessimistic all of a sudden", "I'm a little anxious when I think about going back", "You'd prefer waiting a little longer", he got a headshake as an answer, but continued, he didn't want Jeff back if he wasn't feeling ready "It wouldn't be a problem kid, just be honest", "I'm overwhelmed Mark, that's all", "Ok, that I can understand you know, it's quite normal, but it will be ok", "Yeah… Wow… I'm so happy"
"""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""
Notes: I shortened some things, shamlessly ignored others and twisted stuff hehehe, sorry :-), I do also apologize to have put his comeback in a 3rd part lol, sorry, but it started growing too big again
