Part Seven

Having trashed Aaron's room in an uncharacteristic fit of rage Jackson sat on the floor completely relaxed admiring his handy work. Downstairs Paddy and Chaz sat at the kitchen table casually supping tea, staring at the ceiling in silence until the chaos had finally died down.

"Jackson. Kettle's on."

Surprisingly unabashed that they had heard his mini breakdown Jackson joined them at the table with a smile and thanked Paddy for his tea.

"So what brought that on then? I mean you're usually Mister Cool Calm and Collected."

Chaz goaded him.

"Your son."

Jackson replied succinctly.

"Why? What's he done now?"

Paddy tried to avoid the conversation busying himself with the washing up.

"Ask Paddy. I don't know how long he has even known."

"Known what?"

Chaz questioned. Paddy's face felt like it was on fire, he hated being under the spotlight.

"Is that why you were going to call him?"

Jackson seemed determined to push his buttons.

"Call who?"

"Adam. I think…no I know that Aaron loves him. Paddy blurted out. Sorry Jackson."

"You what? Chaz couldn't decide if they were trying to wind her up or not. Since when?"

"Since they met I'm guessing or at least way before your Aaron met me. He told me about that night in the car."

"Yeah, but they're mates and that was nothing. I mean nothing really happened apart from Adam trying to out him. Anyway Adam is straight."

"Well I would have agreed with you or at least given him the benefit of the doubt had I not just seen him stick his tongue down my boyfriend's throat."

Jackson punched the table in frustration.

"What just now as in outside that house? There is no way. Aaron wouldn't. We were all there and anyone could have seen. You know what he's like Paddy."

"He didn't seem too worried about that to be honest. Jackson attempted to make light of the situation, managing a brief watery smile. I'll stay at the B n' B tonight and collect the rest of my gear after work tomorrow. I might ask Andy if I can move in with him for a while whilst Ryan's not there. Thanks for everything though."

He hugged Chaz and Paddy in turn.

"Stay. At least hear him out. He may have a good reason."

This time Jackson did laugh.

"I can't. Tell him to take care and be happy. I should have known when he told me about that night. I mean he struggles with the whole emotion thing. Ask him not to call. I need some space."

"I'll tell him. Paddy promised. Take care of yourself."

"Awwww come here. Chaz enveloped him in her arms as he started to cry. He is an idiot. He has no idea what he's lost."

"Really? Then why do I feel like the one who has lost out again? Without looking back Jackson collected his bag and walked out of Smithy and Aaron's life for the last time. Look after him for me. He whispered as he closed the door silently behind him. I still love him."