Roman still stared at the picture that Dean had taken of the Saint Elmo's Fire. He was so impressed.
Seth scratched his head. "I thought Saint Elmo's Fire was just a sailors myth." He didn't have a clue it was a real thing.
Roman finally put down the picture. "Well, the first reports came from sailors. A lot of myths are really facts, and a lot of them come from the sea. You have to remember, on the ocean, every thing is vast and clear as a bell. They saw things that sounded impossible, but in actuality were very real, like Saint Elmo's Fire." Roman paused and took a sip of his cold drink, then continued.
"Saint Elmo's Fire is a luminous plasma, created by a coronal discharge from a sharp or pointed object in a strong electrical field in the atmosphere. It can be caused by a violent thunderstorm or something like a volcanic eruption. It's usually blue or violet Sometimes it looks like a fire from tall, sharply pointed objects like a lightening rod, ship mast, church spire or a chimney. It's even been reported to have been seen coming the horns of a bull. Leaves and grasses can be targets as well. It is said there is a distinct buzzing our hissing sound..." Roman was interrupted by Adam.
"That's what we must have heard! Remember, just before that rumble of thunder that rocked the car? Hunter said it sounded like a giant snake was hit by lightening." Adam sounded excited, they were actually learning something new.
Roman smiled. "You probably did. Saint Elmo's is often confused with ball lightening, so it's seen more often than you think. The fire is a plasma, the same found in stars, high temperature flames and of course, lightening. It causes ionization of the surrounding air. It needs an electric field of a hundred kitova/meters to get a discharge. That's why it's seen most often during a heavy lightening thunderstorm." Roman finished, he'd explained what he could, the best he could.
Seth looked at his cell phone. "I just did a search of Saint Elmo's Fire associated with tornadoes. There's only one I could find. It occurred during the nineteen fifty-five Great Plains Tornado outbreak in Kansas and Oklahoma." He read from his cell phone screen.
Chris frowned. "Another bad one. It was in May of fifty-five, the twenty fifth and sixth. There were forty six tornadoes across eleven states, two of which were EF five's . One in Blackwell, Oklahoma and the other in Udall, Kansas. That's were most of the deaths occurred, one hundred and two. One thing that sticks out is several unusual electromagnetic activities occurred. Saint Elmo's Fire wasn't mentioned, but now they must have realized that was at least a part of it. I wonder…. Is this season going to produce such an outbreak?" Chris' voice trailed off in thought.
With permission from Chris, Seth, Roman and Dean went to their room for a talk. When they settled in, Roman told Dean about leading the lightening study and how it would help his Doctorate. Dean beamed proudly the more Roman spoke.
"…. So, Dad said I could have the money, because it was for my education. Dean… I… um..." Roman was halted when Dean placed a gentle hand on Roman's shoulder.
"Ro, I am so fucking proud of you. I'm glad to see that wonderful brain of yours put to use at last. You deserve this. Are you afraid I'm going to be jealous? That you get buy brand new gear?" Dean looked in earnest at Roman.
Roman nodded. "Yeah, I am, and that's the last thing I want. I'd love your advice, but not at the cost of making you feel bad. I… can't help it that my Grandfather left me an inheritance for school. I'd give it all to you and Seth if I could. I'd love to buy you a new cam..." He was halted again when Dean's lips captured his in a searing kiss.
Dean broke the kiss, but he didn't pull back. Dean looked deeply into Roman's eyes. "I am not jealous, babe, I'm proud of you. I don't wanna new camera, I really don't. It would be like trading off a friend. Maybe I would have been mad and angry before, but now, I've learned a lot since talking about… you know. You don't need to share your money with us, you is all we need. You take good care of us, Roman. I only truly feel safe with you around. I'd be honored to help you pick out a camera, but Adam should help too, he's really good. So get the jealous idea out of your handsome head. I love you, Ro, and, I love you, Baby." Dean pulled Seth in and kissed him as well. Roman kissed both his boys.
That afternoon, with a promise that Adam would ride on the electric shopping trolley, he, Roman and Dean went shopping for the equipment Roman would need for photographing lightening. Dean did, after some protests, allow Roman to buy him a new tripod for his camera. That night, Roman got a real thank you as Seth happily watched Dean give Roman the best blow job he'd ever seen. After Dean swallowed down Roman's offering, Seth was pulled in and they made love as a trio.
Hunter and Roman picked up the freshly repaired Ranger Rover the next afternoon. Hunter swore it drove even better than before, and the new tires turned like silk, but were made to grip the road during heavy rainfall.
Since it was just a slightly over two hour drive, they packed up and drove the 122 miles to Guymon, Oklahoma. Guymon was known by two names; The Queen City of the Panhandle and Home of the most lied about weather. They all hoped the last one wasn't true. Throughout the day, during the drive, both Chris and Seth became more and more convinced they'd made the right decision. The humidity was higher and the pressure levels dropped, It all pointed to a day of storms.
The ROW pulled into the America's Best Value Inn. Chris had called ahead and reserved three rooms. This time, room location didn't matter, all the rooms opened to the parking lot and the hotel was only one story. However, Chris was pleased he and Adam got a corner room, because it was where the ROW could easily be parked.
The rooms adjoined with the students back in the middle. All the rooms had a king sized bed, a nice sitting area and a sofa with a library table/desk. There was a mini fridge, coffee maker and microwave. The standard hotel of an upper medium quality.
After they were settled in, they went to the Wise Guys Bar and Grill, which happened to adjoin the hotel. Even though it was a Thursday work night, a local live band played and a dance floor had been created.
Adam put down his double bacon cheeseburger with a pout. "But my ankle is fine! I wanna dance, please Chrissy?" He asked for the fifth time since the dancing had started.
Chris hated to deny his man anything, plus Adam was a damn sexy dancer, but he had to be strong. "I'm sorry, Kitten. I really am. Do you want to wind up in a hot, itchy cast? Your ankle isn't up to the stress. Shawn, back me up here, nurse." He wasn't joking, he needed Shawn's help.
Shawn felt bad, he knew how much Adam loved to dance. "I'm sorry, kiddo, but Chris is right. You already re-twisted it once. A cast to your knee in this weather would be miserable. You'd also have to stay at the hotel while we chase. Please, Adam. Don't make Chris feel worse than he does. He's never denies you anything, you know that. This is for your health and safety." He spoke firmly but with kindness.
Adam sighed. "But I wanna dance..." His hazel eyes filled with such sadness, Chris couldn't stand it Especially when the band began to play a slow ballad.
Chris put down his fork and removed the napkin from his lap. He stood and held his hand out to Adam. Adam beamed brightly. Adam slid out of the booth and took Chris' hand.
Adam suddenly found himself swept up on Chris' strong arms. "I maybe weak when it comes to denying you anything, but I am strong enough not to risk your health. Now, hang on." Chris stated as he carried Adam to the dance floor.
Adam's arms went around Chris' shoulders. "You're the most romantic man I know. I love you, my Lion." He kissed Chris on the cheek, his hazel eyes were filled with emotion.
Chris carried Adam to a corner of the dance floor where they wouldn't get in the way. Chris began to gently sway with Adam in his arms. Adam laid his head on his husband's shoulder. At first a few couples stared, but soon no one cared as they got lost in the beautiful song. Shawn and Hunter soon joined the dance.
Seth had bright, tear filled eyes. "That is the most romantic thing I've ever seen." He sniffed as he took a bite of his spaghetti and meat balls.
Dean grinned. "Go dance, Baby. I really don't mind. Someone should stay with the food. Roman, please, take Baby, before the song ends. I love watching you." Dean encouraged his lovers.
Dean didn't dance. He'd tried man times, but he just couldn't get it. Dean loved good music, but he had no sense of rhythm. He really didn't mind if Roman and Seth danced, but they rarely did out of respect for Dean. This time though, Dean's words had convinced Roman. He led Seth to the dance floor. Dean put down his burger and watched his lovers with a handsome smile.
When the song ended, everyone returned to the table. Adam was happy and content. "You're so wonderful. Thank you, my Lion. I'll be good now." Adam whispered in Chris' ear. He then kissed his husband's cheek.
Chris laughed. "You conned me with those pretty eyes of yours. But, I'd do anything to see that smile on your face. I love you, Kitten." He spoke in a soft voice with a sweet kiss to Adam's lips.
The group enjoyed the rest of their dinner and the music. Chris and Adam chuckled at the shocked faces on Roman, Dean and Seth's faces. Hunter had taken Shawn out for one last dance.
What shocked the students was the way Reverend Shawn dirty danced against Hunter, like he was a human stripper pole for Shawn. The college boys had no idea Shawn could be so… loose.
Adam leaned over and explained. "Shawn doesn't let go often, but when he does, look out..." He went on to tell about the white leather and zebra striped outfit Shawn had once worn dancing five years ago.
"… so that was how I learned about Shawn's wilder side. He never wore the outfit again, but he still lets go once or twice a year. I think it's good for him. Plus, it lets Hunter know Shawn is still his Sexy Boy. But guys, don't tease him about it, he is very self conscious.
When Shawn and Hunter returned to the table, Shawn had been prepared for the college students to rib him, instead he was bombarded by compliments on his wonderful dance skills. Buy the time they finished, Shawn was all smiles.
Later, everyone once again gathered in the Jericho's room. Of course, Chris and Seth studied their computers for tomorrow's location. Dean and Adam went through pictures and Shawn, Hunter and Roman worked on loading the rocket probes to put in the Rover in the morning.
When Roman excused himself to use the restroom, Shawn spoke in a whisper to Hunter. "Hunt, remember I told you I had a feeling we were being watched?" He looked at Hunter, brow arched.
Hunter stopped what he was doing and looked at Shawn. "Yes, I do. You haven't mentioned it for a few days, is the feeling back?" He asked with no humor in his voice. He wanted his husband to know he took him seriously.
Shawn nodded. "Last night at the restaurant. It felt like we were being watched the entire time. Do you think… I'm crazy? I just can't shake this feeling that we or at least one of us is in… danger." Shawn shuddered when he finished talking.
Hunter took Shawn's hand in his. He could see the real concern in Shawn's eyes. "No, I don't think you're crazy. I just wish I could do something to make you rest easier."
Shawn leaned in closer. "You still have it, don't you?" He gave Hunter a knowing look.
"You know I do. It's locked in the glove box of the truck. Do you want me to start wearing it?" Hunter knew exactly what Shawn had asked about, without question.
Locked in the glove box of the Scout truck was Hunter's Beretta Pico .380 handgun. It only weighed ll.5 ounces, and was made to easily conceal in a pocket holster, but it was the best gun on the market for self defense. Ever since the incidents with Brock and Drew, the Helmsley's had been armed with a handgun. They had bought the Pico as a joint Christmas present the year before. Not even the Jericho's knew about the weapon.
"I want you to carry it, keep Adam safe." Shawn again spoke in utter seriousness.
Hunter frowned. "What about you, honey? I want you safe." He looked at Shawn with concern.
Shawn sighed. "Okay. Hunter, it's Adam or Chris that's in trouble. I've had several dreams… sometimes Adam is… is… dead, sometimes it's Chris. Last night, after we went to bed, I dreamed about Drew McIntyre… he was laughing… he said… he's gonna die… and you can't stop it. Then tonight… that feeling of being watched… oh you must think I am going insane, and I don't blame you." Shawn spoke so softly Hunter's ear was nearly against Shawn's lips.
Hunter pulled Shawn into a hug. "Let's go outside. We can't openly talk in here." He let Shawn go and stood. He offered Shawn his hand. "We'll be back in a few. We just want a bit of fresh air. Tell Roman to finish what he was doing." Hunter spoke to the others in the room.
Chris looked up at the older couple. "Sure guys. Have fun and remember, your children are waiting." He gave them a sly wink. He was sure they were off to steal some moonlight kisses.
Shawn shook his head. "You children behave while we're gone. Dean, you're head brat in charge." He laughed and played the game along with Chris. It helped mask his fear.
Adam knew something was wrong. Shawn and Hunter weren't going for a romantic stroll. There was another reason, but Adam knew better than to ask. If Shawn Helmsley had a secret, it would stay a secret. He just hoped it wasn't too serious.
Outside, Shawn and Hunter walked to the far end of the parking lot. They were hidden in the shadows of the trees, not even the moonlight penetrated the little thicket of pines.
Hunter held Shawn close, his arms around Shawn's lithe waist. "First, calm yourself, beautiful boy. You know I don't think you're going insane. That must have been some nightmare, my poor baby. But why Drew? Honey, he's dead, almost six years ago, how can he hurt our boys?" Hunter believed Shawn. It wasn't the first time Shawn had this kind of dream. The one thing that troubled Hunter; Shawn's dreams always came true.
One Shawn's dreams haunted Hunter the most. Ten years ago, Shawn had dreamed that one of the mothers of one of Hunter's students was going to be killed in a bank robbery. Two weeks later, it happened. Shawn didn't have dreams very often, but when he did… it was if Shawn had a psychic gift.
Shawn clung to Hunter, his hands curled around Hunter's broad shoulders. "I don't know, babe. That's why I'm more worried than usual. Why does God give me these dreams, Hunt? What am I supposed to do? Go up to Adam and Chris and say a ghost is gonna kill you? They would send me back to Norman, or to the funny farm and I wouldn't blame them." His turquoise eyes showed confusion. Shawn looked almost desperate.
Hunter pushed back a stray strand of coppery blond hair. "Well, I… oh Shawnie, I wish I could help you, like you help others. I can assure you, I will carry the weapon, and protect Adam as best I can. Maybe Drew is just a metaphor for something else? Like the tornado, the day before yesterday? That's happened before, in your dreams."
"Maybe. It's just, I get these dreams but I can't … stop… why? Why am I shown things and then not be able to prevent them. I told Melissa not to go to the bank… she went anyway… I told Sam to take the bus to work, but he drove anyway and was nearly killed in that accident. I told Randy not to go into that burning house, but he did, it was by grace that he only broke his leg. See, I get the visions, but I can't stop them. This is different, this is about our boys. What can I do? What if something happens? If something happened to Chris, Adam would just curl up and die. Chris would do the same. Can you imagine our lives without one of them? What do I do? Oh Hunter…. I… I…" Shawn did something he rarely did, he broke down and sobbed like a baby.
§§§§§§§§§§
In a room, on the backside of the same hotel, John Morrison fingered the paint ball gun in his lap. The gun however didn't fire paint balls, it fired bullets. He kept one ear turned towards the bathroom, where AJ took a shower. They had just finished their third round of sex that night. JoMo had told AJ to shower first. He used that time to admire the weapon. He still kept it out of AJ's touch, even though he'd show it to him. He wanted his lover to know he was actively working on his revenge "prank."
JoMo and AJ had been at the Wise Guys Bar and Grille. Morrison had been startled when the Jericho storm chase team walked into the same establishment. Luckily, he and AJ had been in a far, dark corner. He'd wanted to dance, but didn't dare risk being seen. AJ didn't mind, he'd said he wasn't into dancing.
JoMo noticed AJ had stared at Jericho with a snarl on his lips, most of the evening. Both AJ and JoMo were disgusted by the display of Jericho carrying Adam to the dance floor and the way they danced. It was just so sickeningly sweet. JoMo did wonder why Adam had to be carried.
As JoMo waited for his turn in the shower, and stroked the gun, he thought about it. The only answer he could come up with was Adam must somehow be injured. JoMo sighed, it was too bad that Adam wasn't his target, an injured leg or foot would prevent him from running. He heard the shower turn off. JoMo quickly wrapped the gun and hid it back in his bag. No need to have AJ curious.
AJ came out of the bathroom, he had excitement on his face. "Pet, I've got a great idea. You've heard of a drive by shooting right?" He paused. JoMo nodded, a curious expression on his face. AJ continued.
"Well, what about a drive by paint balling? We could ruin the hell out of all their vehicles and probably hit smart ass and his blond bitch at the same time! I'd pay money to see that!" AJ laughed like a hyena at the zoo.
JoMo had to keep from rolling his eyes. AJ meant well, but the man had no brains. "Baby, that is a good thought, and it would be funny, but your car? How could they not know it was you? The Dominator is hard to miss. They could have you arrested. Think what that would do to your reputation, and AJ what would those awful men do to you in jail? What ever we do, we can't let anyone see us. Understand, stud?" JoMo cooed at AJ and fluttered his long lashes.
AJ frowned. The thought of jail scared him and it would ruin his reputation. "Guess I didn't think about that. But I would love to see Jericho's team covered in paint. Tell you what, I'll do the storm chasing, you work on your plan. Now go shower, pet." He pulled JoMo in for a kiss, the pointed him towards the shower.
§§§§§§§§§§
Hunter held Shawn and let his little copper head cry. Sometimes, Shawn piled so much on himself. Hunter wondered why Shawn didn't break down more often. This chase season hadn't started off so well, at least in the emotional department. First Dean's situation, now the increased feelings of being watched and the haunting dream visions. Well, Shawn could cry all night if it made him feel better. Hunter began to gently rock on his feet to add extra comfort for Shawn.
In the Jericho's hotel room, Dean tried to get Adam's attention for the third time. "Adam…?" Dean finally gave his mentor a nudge with his elbow.
Adam shook himself. "What?" He nearly bit Dean's head off. It also drew the attention of Chris, Seth and Roman. Adam realized what he'd done. His face flushed red and he felt sheepish.
"I'm so sorry, Dean. I didn't mean to snap at you. What did you want?" Adam's tone was much nicer this time. Chris and the others went back to their business.
"I was gonna ask if you were mad at me. That was the third time you've been lost in thought… or are you upset with me?" Dean looked at Adam with concern, something besides pictures was on the older man's mind.
Adam shook his head. "No, Dean. I'm not upset with you… just…my wandering mind. What did you want?"
Dean half smiled. "Okay. Here is the picture. Did we want to broker it separately? I don't..." Adam interrupted him.
"Yeah, keep it back. That picture is valuable. Let's save it, release it with Roman's report. You will get the credit for it, you earned it." Adam stated with a firm nod and a smile.
Dean looked shocked. "It's a GoPro shot, I didn't take it. Credit should go to Jericho, Inc." He didn't want credit for something that wasn't rightfully his.
Adam gave a wave of his hand. "Well, we'll figure it out. I'm sorry, I just can't concentrate any more. Let's call it a night, okay?" He looked at Dean with anxious eyes.
Dean smiled. "Yeah. I'm bushed too. My eyes are burning. No wonder, it's nearly one in the morning. Gosh, Shawn and Hunter have been gone a long time." Dean closed down the laptop with a yawn.
Adam nodded. "Yeah, they have. Thanks, Dean. Just put it back in the case." He gave a yawn and a stretch.
Chris looked up from the computer. "Well guys, tomorrow looks hopeful. Looks like the cold front is strong. Caps will break by mid afternoon. We'll start about fifty miles to the southwest. May even get a chance to set ground probes. Good, flat land, unblocked views, good road systems." Chris explained to the others.
Just as Chris finished, Shawn and Hunter came back into the room. Shawn had made sure his eyes looked normal, luckily Hunter had his eye drops in his pocket.
Hunter spoke as they sat on the sofa. "Sorry, it was so nice outside. We lost track of time. Got to star gazing." He spoke as if everything was fine and normal.
Chris chuckled. "Star gazing in Shawn's eyes, no doubt. It's nice to know your parents still love each other." He kept up the joke from earlier. He loved to irritate Hunter sometimes.
Shawn laughed. "Well, as your parents, it's time for all you children to be in bed. But, what's the plan for tomorrow?" He asked with an arched brow.
As Chris repeated the plan, Hunter checked the probes Roman had finished. He was pleased, Roman had done a perfect job.
Hunter responded to Chris' plan. "Sounds perfect. I'll tell you one thing though. I'm not messing with any probes unless there are several exits on good roads." He wasn't joking. The other day had been too close.
"I agree!" Adam chimed in with a firm voice. Shawn had gotten up to check his ankle, but that didn't keep Adam from voicing his opinion.
"I'm with them. I've had my moment of a story to tell." Dean added as he filled the ice bag Shawn had tossed him. Dean got the ice from the cooler in the corner.
Chris nodded as both he and Seth shut down their computers. They left them on the desk to use in the morning. "I also agree. Probes if safe. Scout, you help guide Rover, and we'll guide if needed. Well folks, go to bed. Shawn can we do breakfast?"
Shawn shook his head. "Sorry, we're out of milk. They have a free breakfast here though. We won't starve. I should have gone to the store tonight." He gave a frown. He'd been so stressed, he'd forgotten to go grocery shopping.
Adam looked at Shawn. "Shawn, you're not really our mother. I could have gone shopping with Dean's help. Don't worry about it. Get a good nights sleep, we all need it." He waved Shawn down for a hug.
Shawn hugged Adam with a laugh. "Just don't ever call me mommy. Get some sleep yourself, best thing for that foot." He double checked to make sure Adam's ankle was propped up high enough.
Adam was already dressed for bed in a pair of pajama shorts and and over sized tee shirt. After Shawn tucked him in, the older man kissed Adam's forehead.
"I love you, kiddo." Shawn smiled. He just had to let Adam know how he felt.
Adam resisted cracking a mommy joke, he felt the seriousness in Shawn's words. "I love you, too. Shawn, you and Hunter… well… we love you." He smiled up at Shawn as he snuggled down in the blanket.
Chris stood at the door of the room the college boys occupied. He bid the boys and the Helmsley's goodnight s they went into the next room. Chris closed the door behind them. He went to join Adam in bed.
Hunter went on through the boys room to the room he and Shawn occupied. Before Shawn passed through, he pulled Dean aside.
"Dean, I can't explain and please don't ask me why. Help Hunter keep an eye on Adam. Just… keep your eyes open. I'm depending on you." Shawn let his words burn into Dean's brain. His eyes reflected his serious tone.
Dean did as Shawn asked, but he was curious. "I will. Don't worry, I'm sure we had our close call for the season. Goodnight." He shook Shawn's hand as the older man went through to the next room. Dean closed the door, and went about his business of getting ready for bed.
In the Jericho's room, Adam was now naked in Chris' arms. He'd waited to take off his shorts and shirt, no one needed to know he slept naked.
"Lion, I'm worried. Something is wrong with Shawn. He tried to hide it, but he'd been crying, a lot. What if .. do you… he or Hunter… could be sick… like ma?" Adam couldn't say the horrible word that had taken his beloved mother; cancer. He nuzzled against Chris.
Chris held Adam close. "I'm sure both Shawn and Hunter are okay. I think they would have said something. I doubt if they would have come along if it was something that serious. You know how Shawn is, maybe one of his parishioners is sick or something. I wouldn't worry too much, Kitten." He kissed the top of Adam's head that rested on his shoulder.
"Maybe. He does get emotional about his church family. I just have a feeling it's more than that. You think, maybe, a delayed reaction about nearly losing Hunter? That's probably it, right? Don't you think?" Adam craned his neck to look up into Chris' beautiful, blue eyes.
Chris looked down at his husband, Adam looked so worried. "I honestly don't know, babe. It makes sense though. He does tend to hold things in, so they build up. Also, no telling what he went through with Dean. Not blaming Dean, I'm sure Shawn helped him. At least he seems less angry. You're a big part of that too, my darling. Dean really is a good photographer. By the end of the season, he will be a real professional. Let me tell you something dad taught me. Share your knowledge, but always keep a few things to yourself." He gave Adam a wink, followed by a kiss as he gently lifted Adam's chin with his fingertips.
Adam gave a sigh of contentment as the kiss ended with a faint smacking sound. "Very good advice, my Lion. I'll remember that." He moved so he could easily kiss Chris in return.
Chris deepened the kiss, his fingers brushed down the long silky braid of blond hair. Adam's fingers pressed against Chris' chest like a kitten exercising it's claws. It was another thing that had caused Chris to give Adam the name of Kitten.
In the Helmsley's room, Shawn was safe in Hunter's arms. Shawn loved the way Hunter's naked skin felt against his. They may have been in their mid-fifties, but both men were as fit as the college students. Shawn's hand rested on Hunter's muscular chest. The feel of Hunter's calm, steady heartbeat gave him a comfort Shawn could never explain.
"Baby, what did you tell Dean?" Hunter asked as he caressed Shawn's arm that lay across his chest.
Shawn's head rested in the crook of Hunter's neck. When he spoke, Shawn's breath was warm against his skin. "To watch over Adam. I know I shouldn't have said anything, but I couldn't help it. I think, he thinks I'm worried about another close call with a tornado." He ended with a big yawn.
Hunter yawned as well. "Well, probably good he thinks that way. You're so tired, baby. Close your eyes and let's get some sleep. Big day tomorrow, you need the rest to stay alert." He ended with a kiss to Shawn's forehead.
Shawn sighed. "I'm… afraid to sleep. Afraid I'll have another dream." He gave another yawn. His eyes wanted to close, but his mind kept them open.
"I'm here, my little copperhead. I won't let the bad dreams haunt you. I'll stand guard and keep them away. Go to sleep, baby. You will be safe." Hunter caressed Shawn's arm at a slow, gentle pace, even, like his heartbeat.
Shawn yawned again. "Promise? You'll keep the dreams away?" He sounded childish as he spoke.
Hunter prayed he wasn't about to utter a lie. "I promise. Now, close those beautiful eyes..." He paused and waited. After a moment, the turquoise eyes closed shut. "Now, see me? On the edge of your dreams? I won't let them get past. Sleep little one, you're safe. Feel the beat of my heart. Just sleep… just sleep." Hunter spoke softly, almost singing, but not quite.
Shawn's mind began to focus on the strong, steady heartbeat and the gentle voice in his ear. He was relaxed and at ease. Shawn's breath became slow and steady. Hunter's efforts were rewarded. Soft snores began to fill the air, Shawn was finally asleep.
Hunter smiled. It had been a long time since he'd had to baby Shawn to sleep, but he was glad it worked. He closed his own amber eyes and drifted off to sleep. Hunter's last thought was to truly protect Shawn from the nightmares.
Dean and Roman curled around Seth who always slept in the middle. Their Baby was sound asleep. Dean's eyes were open, but he had a blank look on his face. Roman was also still awake. He could tell that Dean was troubled by something.
Roman caught Dean's eye. "Bathroom, now." Roman silently mouthed the words. Dean had obviously understood as he got up and out of the bed. He moved as to not wake Seth. Roman soon followed, Seth slept on peacefully.
Dean turned on the bathroom light, he looked in the mirror. He shuddered and splashed cold water on his face. When Roman came into the room, he fell into his boyfriend's arms. Roman pulled Dean in close.
"Wanna tell me, D?" Roman asked softly as he held onto Dean. This was different from Dean's usual trouble. What ever Shawn had said had affected Dean.
Dean nuzzled against Roman. "Something is wrong with Shawn. He told me not to ask questions, but he said to look after Adam and to keep an eye out. Roman the way he said it… it's like… he's afraid for Adam. I mean really afraid. It's like he… thinks someone is after Adam. Ro, what the hell is going on?"
Roman pulled Dean in ever closer. "I think he's having a bad, delayed reaction to you guys nearly being killed by the tornado. Some people suffer days later. I'm sure that's all it is, D. Hunter will calm him. I wouldn't worry. You just concentrate on helping Adam and taking the best pictures you can, okay?" He kissed the top of Dean's head.
Dean nodded, his head rubbed against Roman's warm skin. "Okay. I'll try. I guess you're right, about Shawn. Kind of a PTSD reaction. Adam wants to give me credit for the Saint Elmo's picture, or give me some kind of credit anyway. He must really be happy with my work. Ro? Do you think it's my fault Shawn feels this way? I unloaded a lot of heavy crap on him. I feel guilty." His eyes filled with worry and his brow crinkled deeply as he looked up at Roman.
Roman still held Dean close. "No, babe. It's not your fault. Shawn is a preacher, he's heard stories like yours and maybe worse. He knows how to handle those kinds of things. It's PTSD, I'm sure. It was very scary, D. I took some time to fall apart myself. I couldn't do it in front of Baby, I had to stay strong for him. Oh, D. I was so afraid I'd lost you..." He pulled Dean in so close, Dean could hardly breathe, but he didn't care. As long as Roman held him, the ghosts of his past couldn't reach him. Dean suddenly felt so tired he could hardly stand.
Dean barely noticed when Roman scooped him up in his arms and carried him back to the bed. Roman gently laid Dean down on Seth's right side. He pulled the covers up over Dean's naked body. He bent down and kissed Dean's temple. Dean had curled against Seth like a magnet.
Roman went around and slipped into the bed with his boys. He turned on his side and draped an arm over both Seth and Dean. Before he closed his eyes, Roman prayed Shawn would be okay. Being a Pastor must be a hard job. Having to listen to so many problems, and not be able to talk about it. No wonder Shawn took the tornado incident so hard. Roman drifted off to sleep to the sounds of both Seth and Dean's soft, steady snores. Roman's snores soon joined them.
Adam panted hard, but he was finally relaxed enough to sleep. He and Chris had been too tired to make love, but they had jerked each other off. It had been exactly what they both needed. Chris slept deeply, he always did after any kind of sexual encounter. Adam's eyes blinked open and shut a few times before he finally drifted off. It was three in the morning, but the entire Jericho storm chase team was asleep.
In the Helmsley's room, Shawn did have a dream, but it was a good dream. Shawn's dream mind saw Hunter, standing in a bright light. In his hand was a sliver sledge hammer. Hunter stood guard, he held back the dark, curling shadows of the haunting visions that wanted to invade his sleep. When a dark tendril of a dream got too close, Hunter struck out with his sledge hammer. Silver flames with mighty sparks drove the shadows back.
Shawn's mind calmed and knew the dreams would not come, at least not that night. His mind shut down and the calmness of sleep took over once again. A smile formed on his lips as his breath deepened, smooth and even. Shawn Michaels-Helmsley was at peace. The storm in his life, calm… for now.
