Three more weeks came and went in the blink of an eye. Time seemed to be transcending rapidly; quickly passing everyone by like it was somehow running late for something, hurrying along to get to some unknown, seemingly more important destination sooner. To everyone around him, witnessing his decline in health, it felt as though God was pressing down the fast forward button on Klaus's life. Each day brought a new challenge for Klaus, some new struggle or woe. It pained everyone who witnessed it, his steep downhill battle of his health. It was scary to watch, especially knowing there was absolutely nothing that any of them could do.

They couldn't truly comfort him, how could they? Klaus was dying; each day passing by was merely bridging the gap to his inevitable and unfortunate end.

Klaus's wounds from his radiation were mostly healed by now; the only evidence of his treatment being the light pink scar tissue that covered his chest and abdomen, wrapping around his back. It improved with each passing day, unfortunately, that was the only thing about him that was improving. Klaus's health continued to deteriorate. Not quite a month had passed since the news of his impending fate, and yet his body was already beginning to give up on him, and starting to shut down. His strength was significantly depleting, doing any simple mundane task caused him to tire so easily. It didn't help that his weight continued to plummet even though he still did his best to try to continue to eat, no matter how difficult it was for him to do-so.

Honestly, Klaus had never been a big eater his entire life. Being homeless for years and never knowing when he was going to get his next meal made him adapt years ago to being able to survive off of a single meal a day; if even. So while he struggled to eat, it wasn't such an enormous change in comparison to his meal plans he'd experienced in his lifetime in the past. So why was his weight dropping so rapidly?

Klaus found out that when you have cancer, sudden weight loss is a common occurrence and your change in diet or exercise may not even play a role in it at all. After visiting his oncologist to voice his concerns about his weight, Klaus learned he was suffering from cachexia, which simply meant weakness and wasting away of the body due to a severe chronic or terminal illness. Or in other words, his body was literally withering away, and no matter how much he ate or didn't eat, it wouldn't have any impact on his weight or change the outcome. Not that it mattered, Klaus was never hungry anyways, but he refused to stop trying. Even if it was typically one meal a day, and not a very large portion, he still forced himself to eat. Dave and his siblings did their best to ensure he was getting enough nutrients; by adding dietary supplements and vitamins into his diet, anything to keep him strong and help him continue to fight for as long as he could.

The scariest issue Klaus was suffering from now, however, was he'd started to really struggle to breathe. The tumor on his lung was growing, pressing against the surrounding nerves and tissue within his chest. He frequently would feel an immense pressure; it felt as though someone was pressing down against his lungs, making it nearly impossible to catch his breath. He'd oftentimes be left feeling breathless, or severely winded. The feeling wasn't constant; not yet, at least, but Dr. Thomas informed him that as time went on it would only get worse. He recommended Klaus start utilizing an oxygen tank at home to help him breathe.

Klaus loathed that idea with a passion. It wasn't that he couldn't breathe at all, he just got winded easily and sometimes he would wheeze even while he was just sitting still. He refused to have to depend on an oxygen tank, or have a nasal cannula be a permanent fixture upon his features until he died. Dr. Thomas understood Klaus's fears; if he accepted the oxygen tank all the time then it was proving to himself he needed the help just to breathe.

If he couldn't breathe on his own, well, then...

Dr. Thomas still prescribed him a tank to keep at home. He didn't have to use it if he didn't want to, but he wanted him to have one readily available should he need it. Sadly, Klaus needed to use it much more frequently than he'd like to let on.

They'd hoped that his pain would begin dwindling, start getting better as his physical wounds healed, but they soon learned that Klaus's pain had only just begun to reveal itself. Klaus's stomach ached constantly now, his ascites was beginning to flare again, the fluid slowly building within his abdomen once more. He always felt so uncomfortable, his swollen belly making him feel unbearably full, bloated, and just awful. He hated this feeling, but he tried to ignore it as best as he could.

He tried to hide the fact that it was returning from everyone, including Dave. Klaus didn't want anyone worrying over something as simple as fluid buildup. It hurt, sure, but he was dying anyways, why bother freaking everyone out over something that in retrospect to him, was so minuscule in comparison to the reality of the bigger picture surrounding him. It was a much slower process this time, he'd figured that it would be fine. It was painful, but tolerable at this point. He'd leave it be and ignore it as long as possible for now. If it got worse, then maybe he'd try to do something about it. But for now he chose not to worry himself or anyone else over it.

Even though Klaus could physically feel the toll the cancer took on his body, and he was obviously well aware of the amount of pain he was constantly in, he decided he wouldn't waste another minute of what little bit of time he had left to live on wallowing in self pity. He wasn't going to let his health hold him back. He wouldn't allow his rapidly approaching death to deter him from enjoying what bit of life he has left to live. After all, if Klaus was known for anything in his lifetime it was for how stubborn he is. He wasn't going to just lay down and die, he was going to stand tall, dig his heels into the ground and fight for as long as possibe. For himself, for his siblings, and for Dave. He wasn't going to let his fragility stop him, he was going to muster what strength he had left and power himself through for as long as he could, he needed to continue to thrive and flourish all the way until the end.

Thanksgiving was fast approaching and Klaus had been reading numerous magazines and recipe guides to learn how to make a holiday feast. He'd been resting up for the last couple of days, attempting to salvage as much energy as possible so that he would be able to gather the necessary ingredients and prepare a special meal for his loved ones. He'd never gotten the opportunity to do-so before, they'd never been on the best of terms. However, now with their family bond growing stronger with each passing hour, and with Dave in the picture, he knew he needed to do something for the special people in his life. Especially since this may be his only chance to do-so.

Klaus rolled over in bed, wrapping his arms around Dave's slumbering shoulders, twirling a lock of his loves dirty blonde curls at the base of his neck around his slender fingers. Klaus smiled as he laid there, simply admiring his fiancé's sleeping form. Klaus always thought Dave looked so beautiful when he slept, so serene and peaceful. He almost felt guilty for what he was about to do. Almost, of course, being the key phrase. Klaus pressed his lips to Dave's forehead, then his nose, each eyelid and cheek before finally landing on his lips. Dave's eyes fluttered as he smiled into the kiss, returning the gesture to his love.

"Morning baby, sleep well?" Klaus asked softly as he kissed Dave's forehead once more. Dave's smile grew as he inhaled a deep breath, his legs stretching out beneath the blankets as he yawned.

"Always when I'm with you, darlin." Dave kissed Klaus's temple as he ran his fingers through his tousled brunette curls.

The two men laid there just admiring one another for a lengthy moment of time. This was their new daily ritual; to wake up and smother each other in as much love as possible, drench their skin in tender kisses, and just soak up as much of this peaceful time as they could. Each moment where they could just relax and be with one another was a precious moment, one that they wanted to savor and engrain deep into their memories. These were the most beautiful moments in their lives.

"Hey, baby, will you do me a huge favor?" Klaus finally broke the silence. He draped his arm over Dave's bare chest as he absentmindedly traced his cool fingertips in tiny nonsensical circles on the skin there. Dave situated himself so his arm was wrapped around Klaus's shoulders, his love's head resting above his heart. Klaus peered up so that his gaze was fixated on his fiancé's handsome face as he smiled with adoration towards him. Dave returned the smile as he pressed his lips to Klaus's once more. God, he would never get enough of his affection, he loved that beautiful man so much.

"Sure, darlin. Anything." Klaus smiled as he nodded. He quickly nuzzled his face closer to his love's chest, his heart beating a soothing tone against his ear.

"I need to go grocery shopping today before the holiday tomorrow, will you take me?"

"Shopping? You don't have to, darlin. I can go for you—"

"I'll wear a mask, please?" Dave's smile quirked into a lopsided one. He ran his fingers through Klaus's curls again as he rested his head back against his pillow.

He didn't think it was a good idea, Klaus was so weak and grocery shopping took a lot of energy; shit it was draining for Dave and he didn't even have cancer. Not to mention, the flu season was in full swing right now. Mask or no mask, Klaus's immune system was severely compromised, being out and about may not be the wisest of decisions.

But he knew how important it was to Klaus that he made this meal for his family, it was all he'd been talking about for the last week and a half. He'd wrangled Dave into picking him up an assortment of Food Network magazines and other holiday food related recipe guides. He'd asked Dave days ago to help him create this meal for his family, he even agreed to take it easy for a few days prior to reserve as much energy as he could to prepare the feast. But he didn't think Klaus would want to cook the meal and do all of the shopping for it, too. He'd expected to get a list and do that portion of it himself.

Dave couldn't say no to Klaus, though. Not when he could hear in his tone of voice just how important this was to him. He did ask nicely, after all. And he wouldn't be alone, Dave would be with him the entire excursion. Perhaps it would be fine.

"Okay, darlin. If you're sure you're up for it, I'll take you. But you have to promise me you'll take it easy, and be honest with me and yourself about how you're feeling. If you need to take a break, you take one. Understood?" Klaus's smile was beaming, he was unbelievably relieved Dave was allowing him this freedom. He wanted to be a part of as much of the action going into this meal as possible, he was so incredibly thankful for Dave allowing him this.

"Thank you, baby! I promise!"

They arrived at the overly crowded grocery store a little after eleven in the morning. Finding a parking spot was a bitch, they were parked probably in the furthest spot from the entrance. Dave wanted to drop Klaus off at the front of the store but he refused, saying he was feeling rather well today, and that he'd be fine with the exercise; insisting that he needed to keep his strength up anyways. Stubborn as he was, Dave couldn't help but admire his strength.

By the time they traversed what felt like a mile from the car to the store (when in reality the distance was maybe the equivalent of a city block) Klaus was rather winded and had to sit down on the bench out front to catch his breath. Dave sat beside him and gently stroked his fingers up and down his back to soothe him.

"Why don't you ride one of those electric buggies with the basket? Those look fun, huh?" Dave tried to suggest, he just wanted Klaus to be as safe and comfortable as possible. Klaus couldn't hide his scoff or the eye roll that accompanied it. He was not enthused by Dave's recommendation.

"Yeah, loads of fun - if you're a 90 year old diabetic with no leg." He retorted through his panting.

"Hey now, you just described my grandfather. I'll have you know, he said they're amazing."

"I rest my case."

"Darlin, you're already struggling, and we haven't even made it inside the store yet." Klaus straightened his posture, his hands planted on his slender thighs as he continued to heave for breath.

"I'm fine, babe. I can handle this - I don't need to ride the stupid electric thingie - just give me a minute - to catch - my breath."

Dave didn't like it, but he allowed it. After a few minutes Klaus was feeling well enough to continue, so Dave helped him stand, looping their arms together as he grabbed a regular shopping cart before entering the store. Half way down the first aisle, Dave came to the quick conclusion that grocery shopping the day before a major holiday was not a wise decision.

The store was filled to the brim with people, aisles barely passable through the sea of bodies and shopping carts. Shelves, thank the lord, at least seemed to be stocked. He would have been decidedly pissed had he dragged Klaus out into this just to leave empty handed and break his love's heart. After a while of maneuvering through the crowds and finding numerous items on their list, Dave could tell Klaus was beginning to tire. His pace slowed down considerably as the familiar raspy wheezing sounds brushed past his parted lips.

"Okay, I think it's time for a break." Dave suggested as he peered around the store to look for a seat for Klaus. As he looked around though he found there was nowhere to sit. The seating areas were all filled with people. Klaus was panting again, now. He leaned forward, resting his palms against his knees as he closed his eyes and tried to focus on taking deep breaths. They didn't have his oxygen tank with them, so he needed to calm his breathing before it turned into an issue.

Watching Klaus struggling so hard to breathe broke Dave's heart. They were almost done, they had all major items checked off of their list, all they needed now was to pick up dessert, the vegetables for the side dishes, and a few small miscellaneous items. Dave looked to Klaus and then to the cart. He repeated this action two more times as an idea flashed into his head. He rolled the cart up to his love and laid a hand on his shoulder.

"I have an idea baby, just trust me, okay?" Klaus looked to Dave and nodded as he scooped him into his arms. He helped Klaus situate his feet against the spoke across the tires at the front of the cart as Dave eased Klaus's fingers around the handle so that he was standing in front of him while he pushed. It wasn't a chair, no, but it was a way for them to get around the store without Klaus exerting any more unnecessary energy. Klaus smiled at Dave in appreciation.

"Good idea, babe."

Dave pushed Klaus around the store as they collected the necessary items for their feast. Klaus's smile was beaming; even though he'd wasted quite a bit of energy through the majority of this shopping extravaganza, now that Dave was pushing him around on the cart, Klaus couldn't help but feel like a kid again. He and his siblings used to hang off of the shopping cart like this when they'd accompany their mother grocery shopping when they were younger. This reminded him of those simpler times. Dave couldn't help but smile when he saw the look on his love's face, he missed seeing that smile; that beautiful Cheshire-like grin.

"Wee!" Klaus called as Dave ran him down the center of an empty aisle, the wheels on the cart squealing in his haste. The joyous nature of Klaus's voice, and the giggling that followed warmed his fiancé's heart. Dave was smiling and laughing, racing up and down the aisle just to entertain the love of his life. He too felt like a kid again. It was amazing to Dave how something so simplistic, so childish could brighten their moods, make everything seem almost okay. Funny how such a silly thing could spark such joy in their hearts. Both men had to admit, it was rather refreshing. When they'd collected their final items and checked out, Dave rolled Klaus back to the truck. The two grown men certainly received a few odd glances; what with Klaus perched on the cart like an adolescent child would be, but they didn't allow the judgmental looks to phase them, and certainly wouldn't allow others bigoted opinions to soil their mood. Tired or not, Klaus had an amazing day today.

Once he was settled into the passenger seat of the truck and Dave had loaded the groceries into the back, they began their journey back home to the academy. Klaus was exhausted, but he couldn't contain his smile. He leaned back in his seat, tilting his head towards his love as he wove his fingers between Dave's. Dave glanced towards him, his own warm smile adorning his handsome features.

"Thank you for today, baby. I needed this. It was fun." Klaus stated tiredly. He truly hadn't had more fun in quite some time; weak or not, it made him nearly forget about his cancer. He was just caught up in the moment, reliving something that once brought him such joy. He was so happy Dave was with him for this, so happy to have been able to create this lovely memory with his fiancé by his side. Dave brought Klaus's hand to his lips, planting a kiss against the tender skin there before laying their hands back down on the seat, where he delicately rubbed circles into Klaus's soft skin with his thumb.

"Of course, darlin. I'm glad I could be there for you, I'm happy you had fun. I did too." Both men smiled at each other simply absorbed within the others eyes, their adoration for one another overwhelming the small space of the cabin within the truck. "You're tired. Let's get you home to rest now okay, baby? I'll handle hiding the ingredients. Tomorrow's going to be a busy day. You just relax, alright?" Klaus nodded as he closed his eyes, resting his head against the back of his seat. He was tired, drained from their little adventure, but it was so worth it. Dave just held his hand as they finished their journey back home.

When they arrived, Klaus had fallen asleep in the truck; his lips parted as his soft breaths whispered out in light snores. Dave wouldn't dare disturb him, he just looked so peaceful and he needed his rest, so he took the opportunity to carefully gather his fiancé's slumbering form into his arms and carry him upstairs to bed. He laid his love down on the mattress, being sure to pull his shoes off of his feet before tucking the blankets around his slumbering figure. Dave sat with him for a few more minutes, just running his fingers through his hair and watching him sleep. Klaus's lips were quirked into the most delicate smile, Dave couldn't help but bask in the glory of his beauty - at least for a little while longer. Dave eventually made his way back downstairs to gather their grocery haul from the truck and tuck all of the items into their appropriate hiding places; they couldn't risk Klaus's siblings finding the ingredients, and spoiling the surprise Klaus worked so hard to plan. He eventually made his way back upstairs to accompany his love while he continued to get some much deserved rest.

—-

Dave and Klaus were sitting shoulder to shoulder at the table within the kitchen, softly giggling back and forth to one another as they joked around and spoke about their plans for the day. Dave was elbows deep in potato skins, having peeled nearly the entire ten pound bag of russets for the mashed potatoes they would be making for the feast, while Klaus tediously worked at snapping the ends off of the many green beans for the green bean casserole that he knew Vanya loved so dearly. They'd already worked together to dress the turkey; filling its cavity with stuffing before Klaus slathered the bird down with a delightful homemade herbed compound butter. Dave shimmied the heavy nearly twenty pound turkey into its bag, nestling it into its deep baking dish before hoisting it into the oven. Klaus knew how much Diego loved turkey - he hoped he'd like his. Klaus had never cooked any of this before, but he remembered hearing his siblings discuss their favorite things to indulge on for thanksgiving, so he wanted to be sure everyone got exactly what they loved most.

Klaus had already assembled the sweet potato casserole, which was currently sitting under the broiler, allowing the marshmallow topping to melt and brown just ever so slightly. He knew Five would be ecstatic over that, he'd always been a marshmallow enthusiast, even in his old age. The candied carrots, which had always been Allison's favorite were simmering away on the stove top, while Luther's favorite pecan pie sat ready on the counter for dessert. Now all that was left was the mashed potatoes, green bean casserole and the gravy; which needed to wait until the turkey was done to make. When Dave finished peeling the potatoes he carried the heavy bowl of them over to the counter and started chopping them into cubes. Klaus smiled at him in thanks while he finished the last few beans for the casserole.

Klaus was so incredibly grateful for Dave; he'd already been a huge help today in the kitchen to Klaus, doing all of the hard manual labor while Klaus mostly delegated tasks to him while he himself took it easy. He'd slept for the rest of the day after their shopping trip yesterday, and throughout the rest of the night, but he still was feeling rather tired today. Even now, while he was sitting down he just felt a little off. Perhaps it was because they'd woken up early, around six in the morning so that they could get a head start on prepping and preparing this feast. He certainly hoped that was why, anyways. He was just so tired, and he kept experiencing a weird feeling within his chest. Klaus momentarily halted tending to the green beans to rub his sternum when the peculiar feeling there flared once again. It was strange, it felt like there was a swarm of moths inside his heart, fluttering around in a fitful manner. The sensation caused his breath to hitch, it was just so uncomfortable. He wouldn't let this feeling dampen his mood, though. Today was a special day, one for celebration and giving thanks.

"Potatoes are boiling, darlin. Need any help finishing up those beans? Or should I do anything else?" Dave asked as he sat back down beside his love. Klaus pulled his hand away from his chest to continue working on the beans and smiled tiredly at Dave while he shook his head.

"Thanks, baby, but, I've got it. There's just these last few." He continued to slowly snap all of the ends off of the green beans and deposit them into the bowl. Dave rubbed Klaus's back and kissed the top of his curls as he stood to make his way to the fridge. He pulled out two water bottles before sitting across from Klaus at the table so he could see him better. He laid both bottles on the table and pushed one across to his love, hinting to him to take a break and drink. Dave frowned when he finally took in his fiancé's appearance. Klaus had dark bruising circles under his eyes, and his skin was absurdly pale, even in comparison to normal. It just exaggerated his gaunt features; his hollow cheeks and sunken eyes. He just looked so...sick.

"You feeling okay, darlin?" Dave asked. Klaus snapped the final green bean and set it into the bowl before grabbing ahold of the water bottle and finally taking a sip.

"Hm? Yeah, I'm fine, just tired," Dave didn't look impressed by his answer. Klaus must've noticed because he was quick to finish his statement, "babe, I'm okay, I promise. I'm just tired. Will you wash these for me and pat them dry, please?" He pushed the bowl of beans towards Dave as he took another sip from the bottled water. Dave nodded, sending his love a soft smile before grabbing the beans and heading to the sink. Dave washed and dried the beans before he laid them into the baking dish while Klaus slowly but surely got up to make his way to finish the casserole. Dave noted how slowly he walked, he just seemed so off today.

"You sure you're okay beautiful? You can sit down if you want, I can finish up here. I don't mind at all—"

"Babe, I'm fine. Now, scoot over, let me work." Klaus shimmied himself in front of Dave so he could tend to the casserole. Dave delicately wrapped his arms around Klaus's waist, pressing his lips to his fiancé's shoulder before stepping back, allowing Klaus to finish what he knew he so desperately wanted to do.

"Alright, fine. I'll be right over there," He pointed to the table, "just let me know if you need anything, okay?" Klaus nodded and sent him a smile before tending to the green beans, mixing them in the dish with the necessary ingredients to transform the boring old beans into a delicious holiday side dish.

Dave sat down at the table. He positioned himself in a chair so he could keep a close eye on his fiancé while he busied himself in the kitchen. He admired Klaus's drive, he certainly was one tough cookie, but he wished he'd listen to his body more often. Dave could tell Klaus wasn't feeling his best today. Yesterday they'd had some fun while shopping, but overall it was a tiring experience, he didn't blame Klaus for being so exhausted today. He just wished he'd admit it to himself, and accept his help and rest like he should be. Klaus finished assembling the green bean casserole just as the oven sounded, alerting them that the turkey was done.

"Perfect timing." He cooed, his vivacious smile spreading across his pale features as he turned to Dave, gesturing towards the oven. "Babe, will you take out the turkey?" Dave got up and removed the main dish from the oven, setting it down on the stove top to rest. Klaus slid the casserole into the oven before slipping his hands into a pair of mitts and removing the sweet potato casserole which was cooked to perfection. He set it down on the cooling rack on the counter before walking to the silverware drawer to grab a fork so he could check on the potatoes. He drove the fork into the boiled russets to test how cooked they were.

"Babe, these are done. Will you drain them for me?"

"Of course, darlin." Dave drained the potatoes, the hot starchy water flushing down the drain as the steam wafted up to his chiseled features giving the man a quick facial. He swished the pot side to side to settle the potatoes back down into it before setting them on the counter where Klaus was patiently waiting, fiddling with the salt and pepper shakers. Klaus immediately added butter, sour cream, salt and pepper to them before he topped it with a drizzle of milk. He grabbed the masher and immediately got to work. Klaus never realized how tiring it would be to mash potatoes. His arms were burning, and he'd already broken a sweat. He let out a breath and paused, wiping his forearm across his sweat slicked brow. Suddenly, he started to feel so dizzy. Klaus shook his head before continuing to work on the potatoes, they were almost done, he could finish this. Just a few more—

"Baby, are you okay?" Came Dave's worried voice over his shoulder.

"I-I'm fine." He stated flatly through his panting. When did he lose his breath? Was he shaking?

"Darlin—"

The familiar flutter in his chest returned and he instantly faltered. Klaus's shaky hands released the masher, his hands slamming against the countertop as he wrenched his eyes shut when the room began spinning, causing him to sway dizzily.

"I think I need to sit—" Dave instantly grabbed ahold of him to steady him when his knees began to buckle out from beneath him.

"Woah, easy darlin. Come on, let's sit you down." Klaus could only nod as Dave guided him to the chair at the table. Klaus was shaking, his breathing rushed and unsteady.

"Deep breaths, baby." Klaus tried to listen but he just couldn't quite catch his breath.

He couldn't breathe...

"Easy baby, calm down. I'm going to get your oxygen! Try to take deep breaths!" Without hesitation Dave sprinted to fetch Klaus his oxygen tank. He was on the verge of hyperventilating. He'd pushed himself past his limits, already. Klaus fucking hated this! He just wanted to do something nice for his loved ones, couldn't he just get this chance without something going wrong, for once?

Dave returned with his oxygen tank and wasted no time sliding the cannula over his love's head and resting the nubs inside his nostrils. Klaus took in a deep breath and at last he was able to breathe.

"Deep slow breaths, baby. In and out." Dave grabbed Klaus's hand and stayed with him, coaching him through his breathing. It took a few minutes but Klaus's breaths finally evened out and returned to normal.

"Thank you, baby. Sorry, I guess I pushed myself too far." Dave smiled sadly at Klaus, cupping his cheeks in his hands. He kissed his forehead before peering deep into his stunning green eyes.

"No apology necessary, doll. Just sit. You've done plenty. I'll handle the rest."

"Thank you, baby." Klaus relaxed into his chair and just continued to focus on his breathing while Dave finished mashing the potatoes just as the ovens ringer went off. The green bean casserole was done, so Dave pulled it out of the oven and got to work on making the gravy for the turkey. Klaus was feeling much better now that he could breathe. He decided he was well enough to help Dave, so he stood up and started setting the table.

"You got it?" Dave called to him as he watched Klaus carefully setting the plates and silverware down on each placemat. Klaus shot him a reassuring smile.

"Yeah, I can handle this."

Dave arranged the food on the center of the table, the turkey as the centerpiece surrounded by the side dishes. Everything looked fantastic, he couldn't believe how good of a cook Klaus had become. And the smell? Wow...

Klaus took a seat at the table again. He was feeling significantly better but he was still just so tired. He felt confident enough that he'd be okay without his oxygen tank for the dinner so he slipped it off of his head. Dave took it from him and set it in the other room so it was close by should he need it again.

"What smells so good down here?" Came Allison's voice as she descended the staircase, multiple sets of footsteps following behind her.

"Holy shit." Diego exclaimed when he entered the kitchen, his eyebrows raising to his hairline in surprise when he noticed the feast. "Did Martha Stewart pay us a visit?" He strode over to Klaus and gently rubbed his shoulders as he smiled down at him. Klaus tiredly smiled, laying his hand over Diego's.

"Actually, this was all Klaus's handiwork." Dave informed as he sat beside his love. Everyone circled around the table, eyes widening in amazement at the thanksgiving feast he'd prepared.

"Klaus, you did all of this?" Luther asked. He couldn't believe how above and beyond his brother had gone. This was truly a feat, especially for someone as sick as he was. "You didn't have to do all of this—"

"I wanted to, Luther. I can't take all of the credit, though. Dave did most of the work."

"Hey now, I just lifted a few things and peeled potatoes. This was all Klaus's doing." Dave defended. He'd helped but he wouldn't dare take any credit. This was Klaus's baby, he planned it all, he researched every recipe and poured all of his heart and energy into this. He deserved every ounce of the credit.

"Is that sweet potato casserole?" Five exclaimed excitedly as he sat at the table across from his sickly brother. Klaus exhaled a tired chuckle as he nodded.

"It sure is, marshmallows and all. Just for you, Five. And green bean casserole for Vanya, candied carrots for Allison, turkey for Diego, pecan pie for Luther and mashed potatoes for Dave and Ben."

"What about you, Klaus?" Vanya asked as she joined her family around the table. Klaus smiled warmly as he took in a deep breath.

"This is for me," He spoke softly as he gestured around the table to his family, at all of their smiling faces, "Seeing you all smile is enough for me. I did this for all of you because I love you guys." Dave and Diego each set their hands on Klaus's shoulder in praise. They were so incredibly proud of him for all that he'd done.

Everyone was so impressed by Klaus's kind act. He'd always been a deeply caring and selfless soul. They couldn't believe he did all of this, creating a beautiful feast for all of them to celebrate and enjoy each other. He's so sick, so weak, he shouldn't bother himself with such tedious tasks. And yet, here they are. He's always been full of surprises. That's just who he is.

"So, who's going to do the honor of carving the bird?" Klaus asked as he smiled around the table at each of his siblings.

"Ah, don't mind if I do." Diego stood to grab a proper knife from the kitchen. He worked to perfectly carve the turkey, separating the wings, thighs and legs to the side before slicing the perfectly cooked breasts into properly sized portions. Diego had to stifle his drool that threatened to pool from his mouth at the sight of the turkey, it was so juicy and smelled divine.

"Looks delicious, Klaus. Wow." Luther rubbed his hands together as he leaned forward, reaching for the spoon in the mashed potatoes but Allison stopped him.

"Wait," She called, earning everyone's undivided attention, "we need to go around the table and say what each of us are thankful for." Vanya nodded at her sister.

"Yeah, that's what you're supposed to do, give thanks, it's what this holiday is all about." Luther pulled his hands away as he nodded.

"Of course, who would like to start? Klaus?" Klaus laid his hands in his lap as the corner of his lip quirked into a subtle smile.

"Yeah, sure. I'll go first." He smiled as he entangled his fingers into Dave's hand to his left, and Diego's to his right. Both men took the cue and followed his lead, clasping hands with the person to their opposing side until everyone's hands were intertwined around the table, connecting them all as a whole. He cleared his throat as he peered into each person's eyes around the table.

"I guess I would like to begin by just saying I am so incredibly thankful for each and every single one of you. You've all stayed by my side throughout my...illness. None of you have complained when I've needed your help, and you've been patient with me when I've stuck to my stubborn roots. I'm thankful for the strides we have all made as a family this year." He paused to inhale a few deep breaths before continuing.

"I love you guys so much, I mean it. I'm so thankful for my family; my brothers and my sisters." He paused as he turned his attention to Dave.

"And Dave. Words can't even begin to describe how thankful I am for you, baby. My rock, my shoulder to cry on, my noble steed when my body is too weak to stand." He chuckled tiredly as he squeezed Dave's hand within his own.

"Never in my life would I have ever believed I'd ever meet someone quite like you. You've taught me what love truly is, and I'll always be so grateful to you for that, Dave. My fiancé..." he trailed off as he closed his eyes when they began to brim with tears. Dave leaned in, kissing his forehead as he pulled his hand away to lay Klaus against his chest.

"I love you, darlin." Dave whispered into his curls. Klaus's lips quivered as a soft sob left his lips, "Shh it's okay." Dave soothed. Klaus held onto Dave tightly, pressing his sullen face against his loves strong, broad chest. He just needed to hold him, to be held by him.

"I'm sorry, baby. I'm sorry we will never get the chance to walk down the aisle, or say our vows, to say I do. I wanted nothing more than to be your husband. I couldn't wait to be, baby. I was so excited to begin our life together on our little farm with our animals, our garden and our pond to swim in on those hot summer days. I'm sorry I'm going to miss out on that beautiful life. I'm so sorry I'm ruining your dream." Dave buried his face into Klaus's curls, his own tears tumbling down his cheeks.

He hated how Klaus blamed himself for this. It wasn't his fault he was sick, he couldn't help the fact that he has cancer. He hated how heartbroken his love was over this situation, over Dave's expense.

"Baby, no," He whispered into his curls before leaning back and pulling his fiancé's face between his gentle hands, "You have no reason to apologize for anything, you understand me? You have been so incredibly strong and brave throughout all of this, darlin. You should be proud of how far you've come. Never, ever, feel guilty over any of this. I love you so much, baby. I'm so thankful I've been able to have you in my life for as long as I have. Every second I spend with you is more than enough. You are my love, my soul, my sunshine. You are my entire world, darlin. Never apologize for being sick, ever. None of this is your fault." Klaus closed his beautiful green tear filled eyes as he buried his face against Dave's chest. He didn't want to leave, he didn't want to ever lose his love. He never wanted to say goodbye. Dave just held him and rocked him, kissing his curls and cooing to him to ease his heartache.

"I-I'll go next," Diego spoke to break the tension and allow his brother to weep. He laid his hand on Klaus's back in support while he spoke, "I'm thankful for our beautiful brother, Klaus. I'm thankful for his bravery, his strength. I'm thankful for the immense amount of love that has always radiated from within him, and how selfless he has always been, even now. I'm thankful for Dave," He looked into Dave's tear filled blue orbs as he smiled.

"For loving our brother wholeheartedly. For being someone Klaus could depend on without fear or hesitation. For being exactly what our brother deserved. Thank you, brother." Dave nodded, smiling at Diego as he grabbed his hand.

"I'm thankful for Klaus and Dave as well," Vanya spoke as she smiled across the table to the couple before her, "I'm thankful they found each other and have been there to be each other's support through all of their ups and downs in their lives. I'm thankful Klaus was able to find someone who treated him with the respect and love he's always deserved. I'm thankful Klaus has finally been able to love and be loved the way he always should have been." Klaus tilted his head to peer as his sister. They shared a smile between one another.

"I'm thankful for the time we have all been able to spend together, and the support we've been able to give to you, Klaus." Allison began as she smiled tenderly to her ailing sibling.

"I'm thankful for the joy and laughter you've always brought to this family. You've always been able to make us smile, Klaus. And I'm thankful for Dave for being able to still make you smile even while you've been so sick. I'm thankful you two were able to find each other, you deserved each other. I've never seen a more perfect couple in my entire life. Your love is so pure, so natural and so genuine. It's beautiful, just like you." Klaus sat up as he laughed sadly at Allison's kind words. Dave pressed his lips against his forehead before wiping at his tears.

"I'm sure I sound like a broken record, but I'm thankful for you too, Klaus. And you, Dave." Five smirked across the table at his brother.

"You've always been a whirlwind, Klaus. Unpredictable and wild in the most mesmerizing and somehow oddly graceful way." Everyone laughed softly at Five's words.

"Admittedly, it's been scary to see you like this; so sick. It's so unlike you to be this quiet and reserved. I miss your flouncy behavior and your ridiculous quips. I'm happy to say that I don't miss you though, Klaus. Because I don't have to, because you're still here. And as subdued as your behavior has been your heart still shines through. Even as sick as you are you still manage to light up the room wherever you go, Klaus. Your smile is still so infectious, as is your laugh. The amount of love that seeps from your every pore is outstanding. I'm thankful for you, Klaus. I'm thankful for who you have always been, a genuinely amazing person who I am proud to call my brother."

"Thanks guys." Klaus spoke softly, emotionally and physically drained.

"Of course, Klaus. We are all thankful for you." Luther smiled across the table at his brother.

"I am, too. I'm thankful for your brilliant soul. Your selflessness, your bravery. You've faced some crazy shit in your life, things I couldn't even begin to understand, and you've always done so with a smile on your face. I don't know how you do it, Klaus. I've always admired you for that. Especially now. You've been dealt the shortest straw and you've continued to press forward and put on a brave face. I know you're scared; we all are, none of us want to lose you. I can't imagine a world without you in it," he trailed off to wipe at his own tears. Allison laid a comforting hand on his shoulder while she rubbed his back with her free hand.

"You've made this world a better place, Klaus. You may not even realize it, but you've single handedly brought this family together. You are the tie that bound us together, brother. We will always be here for you, no matter what. We are so unbelievably thankful for you. We love you, Klaus. More than you'll ever know." Klaus took a few moments to compose himself, and catch his breath. He was so moved by everyone's touching words to him about him, and his love. He couldn't believe how loved he truly was.

"Thank you, guys. Really, I love you all so much."

"We love you, Klaus." He smiled as a soft laugh escaped his lips.

"So, are we going to eat, or are we just going to let this feast get cold? Come on, dig in, everyone."

Everyone laughed as they dug into the feast their brother worked so hard to prepare for them. They filled their plates with heaping mounds of mashed potatoes, sweet potato casserole, stuffing, green bean casserole, candied carrots. They layered the turkey on thick, smothering everything in gravy. Everything looked and smelled amazing.

Klaus was drained after the entire day; worn out from cooking for many hours that morning, and exhausted after that little emotional breakdown. Dave knew he didn't have much energy left, so he gladly assembled a plate for his love. He knew Klaus wouldn't be able to eat much, but he gave him a piece of turkey and a small amount of potatoes and green bean casserole before setting the plate on the placemat before him. Klaus smiled as he eyed the plate tiredly, glancing at his fiancé and squeezing his hand.

"Thank you, baby." Dave simply squeezed his hand back, kissing his cheek as they all finally ate and enjoyed their meals. Delightful sounds of pleasure filled the air as everyone ate; the food tasted even better than it looked. It was undoubtedly the best meal any of them had ever eaten. Their first thanksgiving as a family and it couldn't have been any more perfect if they tried.

"I'm thankful you know how to cook, Klaus. God damn this is good!" Diego cheered taking another bite of the mouth watering, tender turkey and delicious homemade gravy. Klaus just chuckled softly as he gingerly picked at the mashed potatoes on his plate. He didn't have much of an appetite, he was unable to finish all of the food on his plate. He did eat a few bites of everything, though, which Dave was thankful for. Klaus laid his fork down when he was simply too stuffed to eat anymore and leaned back in his chair, draping his hands over his uncomfortably full belly and he smiled.

"Happy Thanksgiving, guys." He said happily.

"Happy Thanksgiving, Klaus."

Authors Note: I didn't proof read, and I somehow managed to completely forget Ben! I am a terrible person, but alas, I hope you still enjoyed! If you did, please let me know in the comments! Only 4 chapters left of this! It will be bittersweet to see this one go! I'll miss it.