I'll Be The One Chapter 16, a how to train your dragon fanfic

I'll Be The One

Chapter 16:

=Normal POV=
[Saturday, 12/29/2018-2:00 pm]
[Archipelago; Arc Isle]
[The Archian House]

It had been a week since the day Hunter left to stay with his dad and Greg at The Archian House for the holidays. The friends got to chat with Hunter over Skype and in text while he was away, so that was nice. Hunter enjoyed his time at home even though Snoggletog was the hardest to deal with. Gregory, Salvatore, and Hunter ended up going to the cemetery for an hour or so; then back home to celebrate the holiday the way it would have been if Vanessa Haddock were still alive. The friends all enjoyed their holidays too; going home and seeing family, but finding time to see one another and plan their big New Year's Bash for Monday; the 31st of December. The days followed Snoggletog for Hunter were quiet, working on small projects and even studying for midterms were beginning on January 21st. In all this, Hunter and Tallon had been talking every day, constantly, as much as they were able. Hunter enjoyed talking to Tallon; they got into deep, long conversations about any topic and Hunter was finding himself more and more drawn in.

Hunter couldn't explain it; this, whatever feeling he got talking to or being around Tallon, didn't feel like anything he'd experienced before. Hunter was confused and needed to figure it out, but sadly; he was coming to terms with the fact that he couldn't do this by himself. Hunter knew his dad was busy with preparations for the inauguration that would be happening after midterms. Salvatore pushed it back so Hunter wouldn't have to stress about missing time studying, so that event was now being held on Saturday, the 26th of January 2019. Hunter needed to talk to someone, and he knew his father would make time for him, but at the same time; his father wasn't the best choice to deal with feelings regarding another man. Hunter thought Gregory might be a good choice because Greg was gay and had his fair share of lovers in the past, but the man never settled down. Currently, Hunter was in his room, but couldn't get the topic of Tallon off his brain.

Groaning, Hunter got up and left his room, beginning to walk the halls of the Archian House to locate his Godfather in high hopes of getting some advice. Hunter must have wondered for ten minutes before ending up out back on the balcony. Hunter leaned there, closing his eyes and taking a deep breath.

"Heard you were looking for me," came Gregory's voice as Hunter turned around to see him.

"I was," Hunter nodded.

"Well, I'm here, so what's up, lad?" Gregory asked.

"Was hoping for some advice…Or even a direction to go in would ne nice," Hunter confessed. Gregory chuckled a bit as he walked over to Hunter, handing him a beer.

"Figured that might have been the case, so there is that, and lay it on me," Gregory cracked his beer open. Hunter smiled some, opening his as well. "What's on your mind?"

"One of my friends who I think I'm starting to like as more than just a friend…" Hunter admitted.

"Oh, boy. Should have grabbed something stronger than a beer," Gregory stated as Hunter gave him a bored look.

"Come on, Uncle Greg…I'm being serious…" Hunter sighed heavily.

"I know, laddie. I'm sorry," Gregory informed. "Go on. Continue, please? Who is this friend?"

"It's Tallon Fury; the guy with the black hair and green eyes," Hunter said softly.

"I know the one," Gregory nodded. "So, what do you need advice or a direction for? You just claimed to have started liking him as more than a friend,"

"I guess I don't know what to do, or if it's real…" Hunter remarked. "It's only been a little time since I ended things with Cassandra, and you know how much I loved her…How can I be developing feelings for someone else already? I already know Tallon is gay; we got into that over a night at the bar at the start of the month," he looked out over the backyard, taking a drink from the beer bottle.

"Well, guess that takes some of the work out; knowing he's already into men," Gregory mentioned, taking a short drink from his. "As for the thing you said about your ex," he paused. "You left her, Hunter. Yes, you loved her, but she hurt you. And if you're feeling something for someone else; it's because they make you feel better, take away the pain. It doesn't matter how much time passes, laddie. You can develop feelings for someone you just met or have known for years in a split second,"

"So, it's not wrong or rushing it if I've started to like Tallon?" Hunter asked.

"Not at all. He's your friend; he's helped you several times from the stories you've told me and your dad. Like sneaking you out of the building, going to the bar for some fun, staying with you while you were drunk a couple weeks ago? Him going as far as to threaten to put a harassment charge on her when she wouldn't leave you alone. Seems like maybe he likes you as much as you like him," Gregory shrugged.

"You think?" Hunter looked at his uncle now.

"Who knows? I'm not him; I don't have that answer," Gregory stated. "Look, lad. We could spend the hours, the rest of the day, weeks going over this…But the bottom line is that you confessed to liking Tallon as more than a friend when we began talking," Hunter couldn't argue that. "You know your feelings. As far as advice goes; I'd tell him. There's no point beating around the bush with it; just tell him how you feel and hope for the best. Whatever is meant to be will work out as it should; that's something I've come to learn over the years. Tell Tallon how you feel, and if he feels the same; take it real slow and maybe start a relationship. That is all up to you, but I would start with telling him,"

Hunter thought about it, and knew Greg was right. Hunter wouldn't get any answers until he knew if Tallon felt the same. Hunter liked Tallon, simple as that. Tallon was an excellent friend; he made Hunter feel better, smile, and it was always fun when they were together. Hunter loved the long talks; the jokes and sarcasm. It did seem like Tallon liked him back, but was afraid to make a move since only Tallon's family knew he was gay. Hunter could respect that, of course. The question now was how did Hunter get Tallon alone to talk to him? Wherever Tallon was; their friends weren't far.

"Thanks, Uncle Greg," Hunter replied finally.

"No problem, lad," Gregory smiled. Hunter and Gregory finished their beers just as Salvatore was walking outside to join them.

"There you two are," Salvatore said. "Been looking for ya,"

"We've been here talking," Hunter informed.

"Everything alright? Must be something serious for you two break out the beer," Salvatore asked.

"Nothing big, Sal. Hunter was just asking for some advice on something," Gregory informed.

"Oh, having trouble with something, son?" Salvatore wondered.

"Sort of, but I guess I had my answer all along and needed confirmation from another point of view," Hunter said.

"And what was all this about?" Salvatore asked.

"I…Think I'm getting over Cassandra," Hunter smiled a bit.

"Oh, that's wonderful, son. Good to hear, and nice to know it's moving along. I hope you don't get mad, but I thought you might be hung up on her for a while since you had so much time in," Salvatore mentioned calmly.

"Well, I've…Had a lot of distractions and help from my friends," Hunter stated.

"Oh, really now?" Salvatore laughed a bit. "Sounds to me like you've found someone else who makes you forget about your ex,"

Hunter tried not to blush as he cleared his throat and composed himself. "Ma-Maybe…" Hunter replied.

"Well, I won't push ya to tell me more, lad," Gregory stated, playing along that he didn't know much more than Salvatore did. "I just hope that we'll get to meet this mysterious person soon,"

"Aye; I'll second that," Salvatore nodded.

"In due time," Hunter assured. "Oh, Dad…While I've got you here; is there still room for a few extras during the New Year's party on Monday night?"

"I think we can make some adjustments," Salvatore informed. "Just give me a number, son,"

"I will by tomorrow," Hunter said as he headed off the balcony and back into the house. Hunter missed his friends and wanted to invite them to the party being thrown at his house since they were always so generous with inviting him to their get togethers. Hunter hurried right to his bedroom to pull up Skype and jump into the group chat; he began his message.

VikingFury, 2:26 pm
If you guys and girls are free; there's a huge New Year's party at The Archian House at 6 pm on Monday the 31st. It's usually invitation only, but I asked my dad and he said it was okay. There's food, drinks, music, entertainment…A real fun time. I hope you can come; just let me know so that I can give my dad a number and make sure you're on the list.

Hunter sat back to relax, but it didn't last as he started getting responses almost instantly. Hunter smiled, reading the replies. All of them said they'd be happy to attend and thanks for the invitation. Also, that they missed him.

AlphaDragon296, 2:31 pm
We'll carpool to get there. Also, Hunter; is there a dress code?

Hunter smiled; AlphaDragon was Tallon.

VikingFury, 2:32 pm
Semi-Formal, Tal. No jeans, t-shirts, or sneakers. And don't worry about carpooling; I'm sending a car for you as my personal guests. It'll arrive at 5:15 pm outside of the complex. I can't wait to see you!

AlphaDragon296, 2:33 pm
We'll be ready. Can't wait either!

Hunter was excited, with a party going he would be able to pull Tallon off to the side and talk to him. Hunter was nervous, but he could do this and somehow; he knew it would be alright. This felt right to him and he couldn't wait.

. . .

[Monday, 12/31/2018-5:40 pm]
[The Archian House]

"Invitation, please?" asked the guards at the door who were checking guests in when Tallon and the friends strolled up.

"We're guests of Hunter Haddock," Tallon informed.

"I'm afraid that doesn't forego needing a legitimate invitation, sir," the man stated firmly. "No entry without one, and I don't have a list telling me that Mr. Haddock had personal guests,"

"Text Hunter; he'll straighten it out," Avery suggested as Flynn went to get his phone.

"That won't be necessary," Hunter cut through the group of people and stood next to the man.

"Mr. Haddock; you shouldn't be out of the protection of your guards and in the open like this!" the man panicked.

"Relax; I'm fine. My dad forgot to give the final copy of the list to you; these people are my personal guests and very much allowed entry on mine and my father's word," Hunter informed, handing the man the paper with a stapled extra piece labeled; Hunter Haddock's Guests.

"Ah, my apologies, sir," the man bowed his head to him. Hunter smiled when he moved aside.

"Come on in," Hunter smiled to his friends.

"Thanks for the save," Drew stated as they moved inside behind Hunter.

"I got notification from one of my guards that it was on the radio guests without invitations had arrived. I figured it had to be you guys and asked my dad if he ever gave the bouncers the finalized list with you on it; he said no, so I came running before they ejected you from the grounds," Hunter said, leading them into the room where the party was being held; then the table he made sure would fit them all. "This is where we'll be, right next to my dad and Greg's table," he informed calmly.

"I thought you said this was semi-formal? Why are you still dressed like that?" TJ wondered.

"I haven't changed yet; I was about to when I had to come save you," Hunter laughed a bit. "Just sit and relax; I'll be back for 6 pm when it starts," he hurried out through a side door and out of sight.

"This is pretty awesome," Seth said, looking around and admiring everything.

"Right? I've only ever heard stories from my dad about this place," Avery smiled.

"Well, we need to be on our best behavior tonight," Trevor reminded.

"It was kind of Hunter to invite us," Harper nodded.

"We don't want to embarrass him," Tallon agreed.

. . .

[6:00 pm]

Hunter still hadn't come out since going to change and it was now 6 pm, the start of the New Year's party. The friends stayed at their table, labeled as; Table 2. Then under that was; Guests of Hunter Haddock. Gregory was at Table 1 with a few others and Salvatore was making his way to the stage. The room quieted down as he approached the microphone; the man stood in a full black suit and tie decorated with the colors for the United Islands of the Archipelago flag; the suit on the left also displayed a flag pin.

"Thank you, thank you," Salvatore started with his hands in his pockets casually. "Well, it's been a one heck of a year, hasn't it?" he smiled. "I cannot express my joy to be serving the people of the United Islands for what will be my third term, another four years as your president. I wish I could thank each one of you for the love and support, and it's amazing to know that you like me so much; you keep me around year after year," the room gave a soft laugh. "There are a few names I'd like to give and thank personally. My security team, who work at all hours to keep my family and I safe. The officers of the police force for providing safety to the islands of the Archipelago. The staff who keep this house up and running. My best friend, Gregory Forger for just being himself,"

"Awe, you do care!" Gregory teared up. "Yer welcome, Sal!" Gregory called. "I love ya too, my friend,"

"I'd also like to thank someone who is no longer with us," Salvatore started again. "My beautiful wife, Vanessa Haddock, who passed away last April to cancer. She was the love of my life, and put up with my busy life as mayor of Berk, and now, your president of the Archipelago. She was always there to love and support me; and even with her gone, I can still feel that love and support," during this, Hunter managed to sneak in and take his seat beside Gabriel as Salvatore smiled some now. "I also have to thank my wife for our son," he motioned his hand to Hunter. "And I have to thank him as well,"

"No…No, you don't, Dad…" Hunter asked as a few chuckled.

"Just deal with it, Hunter," Gregory stated. Hunter rolled his eyes.

"My son probably deserves the most thanks as me being a mayor, or now, the president; has not made his life easy. Recognized wherever he goes, constantly hounded to answer questions, always on his best behavior. The life he was born into requires many things that most children shouldn't have to deal with. And Odin bless him for putting up with everything. Still, despite all that; he stands by my side and supports me all the way. So, thank you, son…I know it isn't easy being in the position you are, but I greatly appreciate all you go through for my sake. I love you, Hunter, and you'll never know how proud of you I truly am,"

"You know I'd do anything for you, Dad. I love you too," Hunter just waved his hand in acknowledgement to the words, though; he'd hoped his father wouldn't have basically called him out like that.

"Now…I think it's time we get this event you all came out for started. So, to give you the best kick off…I give you my son, Hunter Haddock," Salvatore smiled broadly as Hunter stood up and made his way on stage, sharing a hug with his father before Salvatore got down and returned to his seat and Hunter took his place at the microphone. With one hand in his pocket casually, Hunter cleared his throat.

"I'm not much of an introductory speech kind of guy like my old man," Hunter started. "I was asked to provide entertainment to get this thing going, and after a lot of thought; I decided I'm just going to go with something nobody can refuse," he smiled as he moved to the stand behind him.

"Hunter…What do you have planned?" Salvatore asked.

"Nothing," Hunter replied while opening his laptop and powering it on.

"Is this the same kind of nothing that happened last time?" Salvatore mumbled.

"Oh, ya mean when he blew up the shed back when he was fifteen?" Gregory wondered.

"That's the one," Salvatore sighed.

"That was an accident! And no; this is an entirely different kind of nothing. I'm simply entertaining your guests as requested and judging by the chuckles and snickers from the crowd over our family bickering; I'd say I'm doing a pretty good job. Also, I wouldn't be wasting time at the start of your bash if you'd let me set up earlier when I asked. So, ssh and let me do my thing, would ya?" Hunter remarked as his computer loaded up to the log on screen. Hunter typed in his password and the rest continued loading. Hunter pulled up his music program and located the playlist; My Songs.

"Surprised you didn't ask him to do the memorial tribute to anyone who has lost someone this year," Gregory whispered to Salvatore.

"Didn't know if he would," Salvatore shrugged.

"You should ask him. You've done it every year since becoming president, Sal," Gregory mentioned. Salvatore got up, moving on stage next to his son and shutting off the microphone.

"Yes?" Hunter asked while keeping his eyes on the computer screen.

"You know how I do the memorial every year? I-I was wondering if you could perform a song for that before anything else?" Salvatore asked.

Hunter stopped, looking at his father. "You know you're asking me to sing that song, aren't you?"

"Yes…" Salvatore nodded.

"You sure that's what you want? So soon from the last time when you broke down?" Hunter inquired.

"I-I can handle it, son," Salvatore assured.

"Alright, as you wish then," Hunter nodded. Salvatore smiled and went to sit down as Hunter located the song he knew his father wanted before moving back to the microphone, and flipping it in. "By request, as my father has always done the same thing; I'll be beginning this evening with a little memorial tribute to all those who have loved and lost this year. A small reminder that with love comes loss, but that does not mean we forget those we've loved and lost. At the same time; another message should be relayed; the one my father always over complicating in his re-elections when he talks about there being more love and less hate in the world. Perhaps, I can make it a little easier to understood," Hunter looked out to the guests.

"Often; we all take for granted the time we have in this life and believe that we have long in this world or with the people we have. Sadly, that is not the case. Tomorrow is promised to no one. We all only have this one life to live, and you never know when it could be your last or the last of someone you hold dear. Cherish the people in your life; hold them close, visit often, forgive and forget the small stuff…And always say I love you," he stated calmly. "That is the message my father attempts to convey to the people as a family man himself. Call an old friend and check in. Help someone in need. It's the little things that make the biggest difference. Now…For the memorial; I'm gonna do something a little different that my dad typically does. Last April, when my mom passed away; my father asked me to speak at her memorial, and at the time; I wasn't sure what to say. Instead…I decided to use music. So, for you tonight; I'm going to show everyone that same song,"

Salvatore nodded as Hunter reached back and tapped the spacebar on his laptop as the room had grown silent almost and the music began to play. Hunter closed his eyes and took a breath.

"The things we did. The things we said. Keep coming back to me and make me smile again. You showed me how to face the truth. Everything that's good in me, I owe to you." Hunter began singing, which surprised everyone, especially his friends. "Though the distance that's between us now, may seem to be too far. It will never separate us, deep inside I know you are…" Hunter paused a moment.

"No, no, no…" Hunter continued lightly.

"I walk along these empty streets. There is not a second you're not here with me. The love you gave, the grace you've shown; will always give me strength and be my corner stone. Somehow you found a way to see the best I have in me. As long as time goes on, I swear to you that you will be…" Hunter's voice was beautiful. Hunter sang the main lyrics, but behind him from the speakers sounded like there were other singers on backup. Listening closely; it was clear that all of it was Hunter's voice, recorded together to make it sound that way.

"Never gone, never far, in my heart is where you are. Always close, every day, every step along the way. Even though for now we've got to say goodbye, I know you will be forever in my life. (Yeah!)" there was a brief pause. "Never gone from me. If there's one thing I believe…I believe I will see you somewhere down the road again!" Hunter saw his father trying not to cry as he started making his way towards the tables.

"Never gone, never far, in my heart is where you are. Always close, every day, every step along the way. Even though for now we've got to say goodbye, I know you will be forever in my life. (Yeah!) Never Gone!" Hunter took a breath, standing beside his dad as he motioned to a large screen that dropped down, revealing a photo of the Haddock Family and Gregory standing together. It was Gregory and Salvatore on either side of Vanessa and Hunter crouching down in front of her as her arms were draped around his shoulders. Around Vanessa, though; the photo was clearly edited to show a big heart around her face. Gregory teared up, putting a hand on Salvatore's shoulder when the man started crying. "Never gone! never far! In my heart is where you are. Always close, every day, every step along the way," Hunter bent over and hugged him with one arm while smiling softly. "Never Gone. Never far. In my heart is where you are…" Hunter finished.(Song; Never Gone by The Backstreet Boys.)

"Oh, son…" Salvatore choked up.

"I love you, Dad," Hunter said before hugging the man tightly. Another song started up as Hunter stood up straight. "Alexa," he said, forgetting the microphone was near him. "Switch Playlist to New Year's Party Mix,"

"Switching to New Year's Party Mix from Hunter's iTunes," a voice replied. The music changed to something else.

"Lower volume to event mode," Hunter stated. The volume turned down to a level where everyone could hear it, but still talk and not have to yell over one another or the music. Hunter lifted the microphone up facing the others. "If you have song requests, see me. For anything else, see the servers. I hope you all enjoy the night," he slid the button down and hugged his dad again.

"Thank you, Hunter," Salvatore said.

"You're welcome," Hunter replied, closing his eyes. It was hard to do it, but how could he deny his father such a request? He couldn't, and now hopefully, the rest of the night would go smoothly.