Chapter 10

'How? How could I have forced something like that onto Jaden? Now, he's not even Jaden anymore. I really am a-a-I don't even know what to call myself anymore! The point is, Jaden's gone and it's my entire fault!' Jesse was screaming at himself.

He was so caught up in his thoughts, he didn't notice that Jaden had started to move around on the bed.

"Do you want me to put on my clothes?" Jaden's voice was soft and unsure. He kept his eyes downcast and made only the slightest of movements. The sight was unbearable for Jesse.

'I can't take it anymore! I did this to him! He's completely submissive because I forced him into it! What should I do?'

Jesse decided on getting help. He knew everyone would be mad at him for doing this to Jaden, but he'd have to tell someone eventually. So, he decided on telling Jim and Axel. They wouldn't be too mad at him.

"Jaden, put your clothes on and we'll go eat dinner," was all Jesse could say to him.

'I don't deserve to be with Jaden anymore. After this, he'll be so angry at me.' The thought hurt Jesse, but he held back his tears and remained strong for Jaden.

(In the cafeteria with everyone else)

"Hey there, mate. Come over here and sit with us." called Jim.

Jesse obliged and pulled Jaden along. He had refused to leave his room until Jesse grabbed his wrist and dragged him out.

"Jaden?" Alexis was worried.

"Have you finally gotten over whatever was eating ya?" Jim asked.

Jaden didn't respond and instead, looked to Jesse.

"You can talk, if you want. You shouldn't have to ask me." Jesse told him.

"What's wrong with him? Why won't he talk?" Axel asked.

Jesse sighed. Then he stated, "I need to talk to Jim and Axel in private. Do you mind?"

The two stood up and walked out, with Jesse grasping onto Jaden's hand.

(Outside)

"So, you mind telling us what's up, mate?"

"I forced Jaden into having sex with me."

"What? Why?"

"He was afraid." As Jesse told them the situation, the others were eavesdropping. After nearly 10 minutes of arguing, yelling, explaining, and apologizing, they went back inside.

Everyone immediately went back to the table, pretending they hadn't heard a thing.

They sat and talked, except for Jaden. He was extremely quiet and everyone knew why.

Jaden kept looking down and never spoke a word. Inside, he was already dead. No one could save him now.

That is, none of his friends. I never said anything about Jesse not being able to bring him back. Bittersweet pleasantries over, they went back to their respectable dorms.

(Back in their room)

Jesse had talked to everyone. He had made Jaden leave their shared room for an hour. He had accomplished getting everyone to believe that Jaden was fine. But what he couldn't do, was get Jaden to be more outgoing.

"Come on, Jay! Please try to talk. Be bubbly and cheerful! I miss you!" Jesse wrapped his arms around Jaden, without feeling hesitance.

"I love you too." Those words seemed to get to Jesse. They weren't cold or dead. They were bright and deep.

"Are you mad at me?"

"Why would I be mad at the one who means everything to me?" Jaden replied.

"I'd wanted you so badly, I just couldn't take it anymore. I'm sorry for forcing you to do something you weren't ready to do."

Jaden was back. He was himself again. What had caused this change? No one really knew. Maybe it was being outside and with friends. Maybe it was a temporary shock that just expired. Whatever it was, it was gone, and Jesse had his angel back.

"So, do you want to try it again?" Jaden's voice was a sanctuary and relief to his heart. He had longed to hear the innocence within that tone of voice.

"Sure!" Happily, they removed their clothes and started up again. This time, Jaden was willing.