All We Are

by Ariela246

Eddward frankly was a very mysterious guy. There were people in school who respected him, most, however, feared his intimidating presence. Little Kevin had no idea how Eddward had gotten so much power in his possession, but he hoped someone would step up and give him a piece of his own medicine. [REV!KEVEDD] SLOW BURN(Warning: Graphic Violence & Self Harm! Please read with caution)

53. Chapter 53

Hi...

sorry you waited literally so many freaking months. Thank you for waiting and being patient. I love you. I'm so sorry lol

Also December 4th is Eddward's bday in fic... so today hehe

ENJOY!

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His blood was pumping, he was so angry at the man who was staring down at him he could almost just see red within his vision. This man didn't deserve to be here, didn't deserve to come and mess Eddward up all over again. He was harshly grabbed and shoved out of the way. When he hit the stairs everything hurt so bad, he had felt the edge of the stairs hit his back exactly where his injury was making it burn all over again. His vision blurred but he could still hear a rough angered voice…

"…THE HUMILIATION, EDDWARD! … understand? I can't have the entire fucking world know my son's a fucking faggot" the man's last words were broken "Please let me help you"

Kevin looked up at the man and his son with wide eyes…

He couldn't begin to explain what he was feeling in that moment. He was speechless and taken off guard completely. If ever in his entire life he felt like he didn't have words it was in that exact moment. When he saw Eddward's body turn lifeless he felt a chill run up his spine…was this his secret? The one thing Eddward Vincent feared above all else? The one thing that was the very reason his parents had left…why he was so closed off? Why his had so many issues?

The freckled teen watched Eddward run out of the house and it was then he felt one thing alone…pure terror. Kevin knew Eddward couldn't be alone, not right now…definitely not right now. "EDDWARD!" Kevin screamed out, standing back up on his feet pushing past his physical pain. He limped forward and before leaving he turned to Eddward's dad. How could there be a man like this in the world? How could someone allow this man to be a parent? He didn't want to help his son…he didn't love Eddward, he hated him. "You don't deserve him" Kevin spat out weakly grabbing at the man's suit with his injured arm and with the other landed a punch at the man's chin. "You fucking selfish prick" Then Kevin feebly ran out after the raven haired teen.

As he pushed his body to run after the boy he only felt the fear at the thought that he was going to do something stupid. The thought alone was the only thing to keep him going and not pass out from the physical exertion of his injured body. He knew he was bleeding all over again. The sweat stung his wounds and was beginning to feel overwhelmingly light headed but Eddward needed him. Kevin couldn't allow Eddward to be alone and to sink back into his dark thoughts and emotions. Eddward needed to understand that Kevin wasn't going to abandon him like the rest of the people in his life, no matter what. Not after everything they have been through. Not after realizing the complexity of Eddward's character. Not after seeing Eddward work through his issues and had achieved so much. Kevin wasn't going to abandon Eddward.

Finally he spotted the black stripped beanie in the distance of Peach Creek Beach and his heart sunk. He watched in a small moment as he regained his breath as the taller seen curdled up in a state of vulnerability. "Eddward!" Kevin screamed out wanting nothing more than to run up and hug the boy protecting the vulnerable state. However, Kevin could feel his body giving up and walked forward as fast as he could until he finally fell not too far from the other.

Kevin was pushing his mind past the pain and he lied to Eddward who was now holding onto him. He lied because the other needed to hear what he needed to say and so he spoke. Kevin spoke out quickly what came to mind and what he felt he needed to say at that very moment. Eddward was too good of a person to leave over something so minimal though he was highly aware that to the other it wasn't.

"You're my friend Eddward…I'm not leaving you alone" Kevin muttered out "How you identify, feel or think doesn't change that fact." Kevin pushed himself up and looked up at Eddward's ocean eyes "That man doesn't get to manipulate you like that. You are who you choose to be." Kevin remembered everything Eddward had said about himself at the beginning. This was why Eddward kept on insisting that he was a mistake that needed to be erased, an illness that needed to be cured and it only made Kevin want to cry at the thought of how low the boy thought of himself and all because of shitty parents who manipulated his state of mind. "You are not a mistake, you are not defective Eddward and you are not ill. They don't see how glorious you really are" the freckled teen couldn't believe the man when he asked to help Eddward. He didn't want to help Eddward. He wanted to destroy him "I've said it before and I'll say it again, you're fucking perfect" and Kevin didn't know how to communicate everything he was feeling. But he hoped Eddward understood that he wasn't going anywhere. He hoped that Eddward knew that Kevin was going to be there through thick and thin. He was worth it.

When he heard the raven haired teen broken voice try to speak out Kevin shook his head softly. He looked up at Eddward once more remembering everything they had gone through up until this point. Recalling how far Eddward had worked on becoming a better person even if he was still working on it. All the times Eddward made him smile, comforted him and did everything in his power to keep him safe and sound. "Let me finish…To me, you are Eddward Vincent. One of my best friends, and someone I can rely on one hundred percent of the time. You are someone who always has come to my rescue, you are my hero Eddward" Kevin smiled up at Eddward who had tears running down his cheeks now. Kevin reached up and wiped them away with a soft smile on his face. All Eddward needed in his life was love. "If they can't appreciate and love you then forget them because you only need us. Ed, Nazz and I appreciate you. I love you just the way you are right now. No one is going anywhere Eddward. So… please, please don't put yourself down, please don't hurt yourself anymore. It hurts me seeing you so down. I'll always be here if you need me" and Kevin's chest ache at the image of Eddward hurting himself once more.

When the freckled teen saw Eddward start to cry he couldn't help but reach up and finally hug him. He let Eddward cry into his shoulder and he hadn't been held more tightly by Eddward than he had that night. Kevin knew Eddward was far from accepting this issue that had caused him so much pain and he knew he himself needed to think more on the matter that was the severe cause of Eddward's tragic story. The one major factor that changed Eddward into becoming the tyrant he was and the saint he currently was. For now, he relished the moment with the teen.

He remembered fighting about not going to the hospital and he remembered Eddward finally picking him up from the cold sand and into his warm embrace. Kevin's body was shutting down, he was so tired and sleepy and before he knew it he let himself lean against Eddward's chest and he lost conscious. His last thought was that he hoped Eddward wouldn't shut him out again after this.

…

The next thing the freckled teen knew there was a huge ache from his sore body that annoyingly poked at his conscious. He felt cold and he felt he was in a weird position. Kevin slowly and hesitantly opened his eyes and let into his vision take into the cool blues of the room. It was very early in the morning probably around 4 or 5. After a few minutes of blinking he finally realized what state he was in and in the awkward sleeping position. He was wearing Eddward's clothing and had a pillow on his back where it hurt the most.

The memories of the night before began to flood in to his mind. The thought of Eddward's father made him nauseous so he tried sitting up a bit but failed to do so. It was then he truly noticed he was completely alone in the room and the fact made him feel lonesome. Kevin breathed in looking up at the ceiling and recalling everything that had happened once more in slow motion.

"I can't have the entire fucking world know my son's a fucking faggot"

The statement had truly gotten him off guard…he was expecting possibly anything else…but not this. Eddward…Eddward Vincent of all people was…? What should Kevin say, gay? Homosexual? Queer?

It was…well, Kevin didn't really know what to say. No one in their school had really come out as queer and Kevin didn't really know if it was out of fear of the gang or of everyone else in town. Sure, the whole idea of liking someone of the same sex didn't surprise him. He had seen couples of the same sex…heck there were some over in the northern Fangs! And Kevin had thought the couple adorable! But…but this was Eddward!

Eddward who he idolized as the most masculine person he had ever known! Kevin slapped his cheek in stupidity. Of course, he was going by stereotypes but…it never occurred to him that the raven haired teen was…diverse, not in that matter at least. Eddward had dated Marie Kanker for crying out loud. Nevertheless, it didn't change who Eddward was as a person, it really didn't and Kevin knew that. But…wow.

What did infuriate him was how Eddward's parents would leave their son over something like their sexuality. The hatred they must have had on him as to go as far as to belittle and torment their own son. To go as far as break him the way they had. The abandonment was one thing but then to manipulate him into thinking he had an illness was absolutely revolting. Kevin couldn't wrap himself over the concept of how cruel these people were. They drove Eddward into a corner where he thought he had no other choice but to kill himself.

What the actual fuck?

Kevin sat up with a groan feeling his body so sore. He couldn't believe it…he couldn't comprehend it. How cruel…how inhuman of his parents to go so far. If they truly didn't want him why keep him? Horrible thought but Kevin thought it would have been better for Eddward to find another family than having to put up with the tormenting ones that he had. But really, why keep someone who is the embodiment of something you detest? Did they perhaps…deep deep down love him? Couldn't let him go? Or were they so embarrassed and angry they decided to hide Eddward? It wasn't like they were gloating about the fact that Eddward was the prodigy in town, heck Tom had met Victor Vincent before meeting Eddward and he had no idea the man had a son. Did they decided to keep him and let him grow up alone hoping one day Eddward would come to his senses and fulfill his parents expectations of him? Why was Eddward so insistent on fulfilling those expectations anyways? After everything that they did to him, Kevin thought it sad that Eddward was still denying that side of him in order to become the perfect prodigy his parents wanted.

It was clear that Eddward despised himself much more than his old man did. This wasn't something he chose to be…Kevin knew that Eddward was who he was and if that meant he liked guys then damn it that's who he liked. This shouldn't be something he hates but rather embrace. If he didn't then when would be ever find love?

It broke his heart think that Eddward was denied love from his family and denied to find love. It broke Kevin to even think of all the years that the raven haired teen had been neglected of love. How many years did he pass thinking he was hated, that he was a burden and unwanted?

Well, no more. Kevin would find a way to make up for Eddward's lack of love, and thankfully Ed and Nazz were people who also would appreciate and accept the teen. He knew one hundred percent that Nazz would and well Ed already knew this secret.

Finally after looking over to the alarm clock, Kevin saw that it was five in the morning, essentially only a few hours after he passed out. Finding some determination, he stood up slowly still very much feeling the aching pain on his back and knees. Quietly he opened the door and looked around hearing a faint sound from downstairs. He made his way down the stairs as slow as he could from the sting of his knees. When he reached the last step he looked around noticing the figure hunched over at the table. It was Eddward and he seemed to be looking down at something, his face covered by his hands and Kevin knew the teen was crying.

The freckled teen just stood still for a moment unsure if he should interrupt or give him some time alone. Deciding to at least provide some comfort Kevin limped over to the room hearing a very quiet sniffle when he approached near. Kevin stood by the door frame with a frown "…Eddward?" He quietly called out.

The raven haired teen glanced up with swollen eyes and tear stained cheeks "What…" Eddward looked away wiping his face with his hands "what are you doing up? You should be in bed resting Kevin"

"I'm fine…" Kevin looked at the pile of sticky notes that the teen had been looking at. As Kevin walked over he noticed the same beautiful delicate handwriting all over the notes. It was one similar to Eddward's but to him it was clearly not the same. Eddward's was not slanted and tiny as the ones on the notes. Kevin stood over Eddward shoulder and read some

I will make your favorite for dinner…

Don't stay up too long..

Finish all your chores…

Don't forget to study an hour before bed…

Remember mother loves you…

Kevin noticed they were all written by Eddward's mother. He tilted his head to read the note closest to the raven haired teen

Happy birthday my dearest Eddward

You are the light of my life.

With a frown Kevin reached down to pick up the note and looked at it with a sense of agony. Where had Eddward hidden these? How often did he look through them? Kevin wrapped an arm around the boy's shoulder and tilted the boy's head so his face was hidden in Kevin's chest. Kevin could feel tears building up at the corner of his eyes and his throat become thick at the realization of the amount of loneliness and torment Eddward must feel on a regular basis. The amount of time he spent alone in this very kitchen crying over these notes and hoping one day the woman would walk through the front door. Hoping she would love him…

How could anyone truly live denying the craving of love and acceptance of family? Of course Eddward wanted things to go back to the way they were…to the time when his mother was writing these lovely notes. To the time he came home and found a mother and a father waiting for him and asking him how his day had been. Eddward grew up hiding this desire and masked it with silence. Eddward grew up knowing the parents he loved so much abandoned him for being attracted to the same gender.

Yet it hadn't been just his parents…at some point, Kevin realized, Ed and Eddy, friends he had considered family had left him because of the same reason. Eddward had lost family twice and it wasn't like he could do anything about it. Eddward was who he was…he wasn't ill and he wasn't an error but he was made to believe he was. He grew up believing his sexuality was some sort of disorder. They lived in a town after all, and most of the people in Peach creek were heterosexual conservatives. But times have changes, Eddward wasn't the first queer person in town but that didn't mean the town was progressive. Most kept to themselves or moved away to lemon brook.

When his father had asked if he liked a boy, Kevin hadn't realized the significance of the question his father had spoken. He had just stuttered and blushed. Now he realized what a blessing it was that he had family in his life to accept him if he had answered yes…Eddward hadn't ever had someone like that in his life. He was rejected, over and over again. The pain of rejection and loneliness had driven him to pushing people away, and hitting rock bottom.

And it broke his heart…

The freckled teen held on as Eddward gently wrapped his arms around his waist. Never before had the raven haired boy ever appeared smaller, younger and so exposed. It was then Kevin realized there wasn't anything he could truly say to reassure Eddward. There wasn't anything Kevin could do to alleviate Eddward's years of traumatic emotional pain. All he could really do in that moment was to be present and hold him a little tighter.

So Kevin did.

As Eddward desperately held onto his sweatshirt, the freckled teen could hear the boy mumbling apologies that made Kevin's chest hurt. He knew the raven haired wasn't apologizing to him… he was apologizing to the woman Eddward called to his mother, the woman who had written these loving notes. The woman who's photograph continued to hang in the living room. He was apologizing for being who he was and ultimately driving her away. It hurt to hear the boy's apologies because Kevin knew he meant them. The freckled boy held Eddward tighter digging his grip into the boy's shirt and taking a deep shaky breath in letting his own empathy swallow him whole.

…

When Eddward awoke, he realized it was late in the morning. The bright sunlight had peeked through the living room curtains and was directly hitting his face. He fluttered his eyes open and took a deep breath in feeling his eyes a bit puffy. The first thing he saw was a full head of ginger hair on his chest. Kevin was lying on top of him peacefully sleeping and it made him feel relief. Carefully he lifted a hand and cupped the boy's head with one hand and with the other he placed it on top of Kevin's good side back.

Eddward still had a lot of mix emotions about everything that had happened in the last couple of hours. He was terrified of his father coming back and kicking him out, disowning him, or perhaps forcing him to go to that treacherous institution.

Yes, he wanted to change or cure what was wrong with him but not like that… He wanted to have his mother back in his life but not if it meant forced under such inhuman circumstances. Sometimes he wished that he would one day be magically changed. Sometimes he thought it had been Blaine who had passed on that illness to him the day he kissed him by the river. Sometimes he thought…perhaps he really couldn't ever change that side of him. No matter what he did he couldn't help but feel that attraction. Yet, everyone kept on leaving him for that reason alone and it made him spiral every time. He had to be a defect…how come no one else was?

So, Eddward asked himself now why Kevin was still here. Why he wasn't disgusted with him and was comfortably on top of him currently. He had seen the look on Kevin face when his father revealed his secret. Kevin was shocked…not repulsed… it reminded him of how Ed had reacted. Both Kevin and Ed had just been surprised, and Ed had treated him the same after as well. It had been Eddy who made a face of disgust; it had been Eddy who convinced Ed to leave. He had noticed the way the short boy had forcibly dragged Ed with him, had whispered things behind his back when they though he wasn't paying attention. The only reason why Ed and Eddward had hated each other was because of the fight, because of each other's betrayal and of how Eddward's personality darkened.

Kevin Barr…had done something entirely different from everyone else. Kevin Barr had looked him in the eyes and accepted him. Eddward couldn't fathom how he had felt at the boy's words that night. He didn't know how to react, what to think. It was then something in him came into view. As he stared down at the beaten up ginger boy…as he looked into the teen's determined and loving eyes…he didn't know if he should hate himself for feeling the way he felt but he couldn't deny it any longer. This revelation didn't mean he accepted himself. He still felt the way he felt about…this side of him and was still unsure of the freckled boy's acceptance but Kevin was there with him and in that moment nothing was most relevant than that fact. Damn him if he ruined everything with this stupid realization… he'd drag this secret to the grave if he had to…because Kevin deserved better.

There had been a reason why he had hated Kevin so much back in their first 2 years of high school…why he had picked so much on him back then.

…

"What do you mean they're not coming to school?" Nazz had a hand on her hip as Ed stood about a foot from her trying to avoid eavesdroppers.

"Apparently, Kevin got in some sort of accident last night but he's fine" Ed clarified for the girl upon seeing her reaction to the news. He looked around the busy hall scanning for any signs of Sam or the J's. "We'll go to see them after school" he whispered "Just be careful around school today"

"Ed, I'm always on guard" Nazz rolled her eyes looking around "…I want to go see Kevin right now…" she sighed sadly

Ed hummed in agreement "I do too but…I think they might need some alone time."

"Why is that?" Nazz looked back up at Ed with a questioning look.

With a shake of his head Ed spoke quietly "I don't know, Double D sounded…quiet?"

"Quiet?"

"I mean, like…" Ed made some hand gestures "I can't explain it, but I've known Double D long enough to recognize the change in his tone. He sounded kind of dejected"

"Do you think it has to do with Kevin? Maybe it's serious, what if Eddward…?" her words were rushed in worry.

"No I don't think so, Double D would have said something if it had to do with Kevin, and he wouldn't have called if…it happened again." Ed crossed his arms hearing the bell ring for class. "We'll find out later today, come on I'll walk you to class"

As they turned to walk away they heard quick footsteps come up behind them. Sam was clearly in a rush as he stopped in front of them and trapped them against the wall they had been leaning against. "Now, I need answers not questions so please cooperate" Sam looked firmly towards Ed and when he looked down at Nazz his gaze softened "Love" he greeted her.

"What do you want?" Ed frowned placing himself in front of Nazz

"What did I just say" Sam shook his head irritated at the tall brunette "Where is Kevin?"

"He's with Eddward" Nazz responded with some suspicion in her tone "Why do you want to know?"

"Where? I need to speak with him"

"They're at Eddward's house" Nazz tried pushing Sam back.

The blonde boy looked rather anxious about Kevin being with Eddward which made both her and Ed become rather suspicious about Sam being connected to whatever seemed to have happened.

"Well then, if you'll excuse me I'll be making a, hopefully, quick visit" Sam inhaled deeply slightly hesitant but turned around and started down the hall.

Ed looked down at Nazz with confusion "Should we skip?"

"Heck yeah we're skipping." Nazz grabbed the teen's arm and dragged him forward following after Sam "No way am I letting that asshole get away with whatever he did this time"

…

The room was in silence and the freckled boy was beyond nervous to speak the truth. However, he stared fiercely at the blue eyed teen standing a few feet away from him. Eddward had his arms crossed and the damaged leather jacket was placed on the table in between them.

"Ok…Eddward" Kevin started not breaking eye contact with the other and an exhaled breath. "Don't blow a fuse ok?"

"That will depend…" Eddward appeared calm and that mostly had to do with how tired he was. The freckled teen had noticed the dark bags under his ocean eyes indicating Eddward hadn't had much sleep…as per usual but Kevin could also see the crystal clear hint of disapproval on the teen's lips.

With another long sigh Kevin looked down at the jacket "Sam—" he started but was immediately interrupted with a low growl from the other.

"Of course, it had to be him" Eddward rolled his eyes and pulled at his beanie in clear frustration.

Kevin cleared his throat and rapidly started talking "Sam heard about a suspicious guy causing trouble over in Lemon Brook"

"You mean the masked man?" Eddward leaned a hip against the table concerned crossing his arms once more.

"Yeah him…well, Sam has the theory that the masked man and the person who attacked Nazz is the same person. They fit the same description"

"But Nazz said it was Jimmy, I've been keeping an eye on him since the night of the attack. Irritatingly enough, he hasn't moved a finger" Eddward looked down at the jacket with a frown as if he knew what was coming. "I highly doubt Jimmy has anything to with the events of the masked man. That's gang territory; it doesn't seem to be directed to anyone specifically based on the leads"

"All I know is that I'm pretty sure they are the same person…" Kevin lifted a hand and placed it on his injured shoulder wincing a bit at the small ache that still remained "Sam…sent me over to look into it. Said, there were rumors about this masked person violating Fang territory. So I went to see what I could find out about this guy"

"You were in Northern Fang territory! Are you insane?" Eddward dropped his arms when he looked at a small bandage on the smaller boys cheek "Are they the ones who did this to you?" he spat out angrily placing a hand on the boy's injured cheek.

"No, calm down. Sam gave me this jacket to-"

"Northern Fangs are allies with the East Sharks… I know" Eddward sighed once more rubbing his forehead as if he was developing a headache. "Why did you agree to go? Why did he even ask you! That fucking bastard is going to get it this time, urgh"

"Eddward, stop. I'm fine" Kevin tried to reached out but Eddward pulled his hand away

"No you aren't, look at you!" Eddward gestured Kevin's state "You came back in a horrific state, a-and it could have been worse! Your bike is in pretty bad condition as well. I went to look at it this morning and the back is completely smashed. I'm beyond surprised you were even able to ride it here in the condition it's in!"

"I needed to go! I can't let you and Ed handle everything for me and Nazz!" Kevin stood then wincing at the pain of standing up to fast "None of you could go, you'd be in danger! The Fangs or this masked man could have easily come after you. If it was Jimmy, or anyone in your gang I'm sure they would have found out you were going after them. No one expects me to do anything! No one in Lemon Brook knows who I am. It was the practical thing to do and now I have the Fangs trust because of it"

"At what cost Kevin! Look at you!" Eddward stepped closer taking ahold of Kevin's uninjured arm "This could have been so much worse! I don't want you to get involved in this ridiculous situation. Someone did know you were over there and how they knew is beyond me but I'll handle it."

"You've been saying that for months now! It's been almost half the school year and nothing has been resolved, everything is getting worse! You're going to lose control of the situation soon enough" Kevin pulled back from the other "This ridiculous situation involves Nazz, and you! How could I not get involved? Raine told me this Masked Man could be after you! They are dangerous; they want you out of the picture. Now, I don't even know WHY they want Nazz."

"You talked with the Fang leader?" Eddward looked down bewildered

"I did." Kevin step his stare harsh

"Kevin…you're playing with fire" Eddward placed a hand on the jacket "Do you know what they would have done to you if they found out you were lying? If they knew you were associated with me? They could have killed you!"

"They're not criminals like the rest of your gang!" Kevin barked out "They do things differently there, I was in their home and they…the people there were a so much different from you guys."

"Because they thought you were an Eastern!" Eddward spat out annoyed. "You need to stop this now! You don't know anything about the gang life Kevin! The previous Fang leader wasn't merciful at all. This isn't a kid's game! There are real mobsters involved. Sam's father is the fucking infamous Wolf! The leader of the Ivory Snakes, the ones over in Walnut Creek, is associated with Sam's family and the Southern Royal Brotherhood, second most infamous mafia in the country"

"I know that!" Kevin argued still processing the intensity of the gang situation. He knew one wrong move with these people who mean serious consequences "I know this is real! I've been aware for a long time now Eddward."

With a shake of his head Eddward spoke out starting to calm back down "I'm going to have a word with Sam about this and I'm going to have someone assigned to look after you because I can't trust you to stay out of harm's way"

"I don't need a babysitter! I'm getting involved no matter what you say! I'm done waiting for you to save the day! I can handle myself!" Kevin grabbed the leather jacket from the other and shoved it behind his back once more. "I'm not done yet"

"Under no circumstance am I allowing this" Eddward tried to rip the jacket away from Kevin "Kevin! It's too dangerous!"

"It's too dangerous for you! I ask you all the time not to do the things that you do and you don't listen to me! How many times have we had this stupid fight Eddward!" Kevin shouted in anger placing a dramatic hand onto his chest "I know you're scared for me but you have to understand I'm scared for you! All the freaking time!"

Eddward let out a small groan as he lifted his hands to hold Kevin's shoulders with a gentle squeeze. "I understand you're sick of this, believe me I am too! I'm so exhausted of arguing with you about this and want nothing more than let you run around care free but getting yourself into these life threating situations is not going to do us any good. I know how to work around these gangs and troubles; I've been part of this risky life for almost 4 years now. I don't want you involved in something that could affect you negatively for the rest of your life."

"Eddward…I've already been affected" Kevin frowned remembering the ache that randomly showed up in his upper shoulder from being shoved in lockers, beat up ect… he knew now the pain would only get worse thanks to the crash he just had. Kevin's body wasn't durable, and even if at the time he felt for the most part fine, he knew over time his body would show signs of the consequences of everything he has endured. He didn't want to ever tell the raven haired boy this knowing he would blame himself and live in constant guilt. "Look, I think we've both suffered enough. We can't get through this alone and I promise I'm not a liability. I survived last night and I got us a backup. If I continue to go then maybe I can change their minds about you and some of the sharks. Raine doesn't trust Sam at all but if they trust me enough they can trust you at least."

"Kevin, no. You're not going back there. Especially after this" Eddward gestured at Kevin's form. "Whoever did this knows you're involved now and they're out to get you. It too risky going there alone"

"Then I'll have Ed with me. He isn't part of your gang anymore and was ostracized. If he's with me then he might be safe." Kevin was hopeful Eddward would finally agree with this. "If I'm with Ed, I don't think this masked person would want to attack."

"…I'll speak to Ed about this matter first" Eddward sighed slightly giving up but still not liking the idea at all. "So, how much did Raine tell you?"

"Not as much information as I hoped, but I get the feeling this guy is brewing big trouble. Why haven't the police done anything about him? I haven't even heard anything on social media or the news." Kevin sat back down with leather jacket still in hand.

With a scoff Eddward pulled out his phone looking something up as he spoke "Police don't usually get involved in gang issues. Too dangerous…or they might be paid to keep out. As loud and obnoxious as most gangs can be, we try to keep things under the table. Most of the gangs around here are associated with bigger ones and if the police or the media found out it could cause troublesome investigations to occur in town. The town might be overrun with them. Everyone expects these associations to occur in bigger cities. Better revenue… but this just makes it easier for gangs in smaller towns to thrive, less police. A lot of the…clients come from out of town and happily make their way down here to do business. Especially after knowing the Wolf's bastard son is down here."

"As for the media…you just have to know where to look" Eddward held up his phone bringing up a private group that was shark members only. Kevin reached for the teen's phone where he scrolled down and saw images of the spray painted threats in shark territory. Scanning through the comments he realized everyone thought the shark was meant for Sam but something in him thought they could definitely be after Eddward. Most of the members were angered anyone would dare threaten Sam, some going in search parties over to Lemon Brooke where most of the acts occurred. He clicked on a link that took him to a small news company from Lemon Brooke that had several articles on this phenomenon. He realized then the activities of the masked person dated about a month now. No reports on anything related to Peach Creek however. "If it's not Jimmy, then who is it?" Kevin looked up confused.

"Someone who is after both Sam and Nazz, if they are the same person" Eddward sat down as well "I'll tell Ed and Nazz to come over after school so we can all discuss this situation… and this." Eddward pointed a finger at the leather jacket.

Kevin just pouted tightening his hold on the jacket.

…

Eddward was in the middle of changing one of Kevin bandages when they heard a loud banging on the door that surprised them. The raven haired teen gave Kevin a look before walking out of the restroom to go open the door. As he approached he could hear arguing between two people and he immediately recognized Nazz's high pitch yelps. Upon opening the door he found Nazz pulling on Sam's ear, Sam angrily trying to get away and Ed in the middle of the bickering looking the most exasperated that he has ever seen his friend be. "Hey Double D…" Ed weakly waved as he pulled Nazz off of Sam.

"Hey…" Eddward opened the door more and as he made eye contact with Sam he immediately gave him a scowl "…you've got some explaining to do"

"…" Sam rolled his eyes pushing his way inside followed by the others. "Where's Kevin?" he asked looking around.

"Upstairs, he'll down in a moment" Eddward closed the door and made his way upstairs with Nazz following behind.

Ed took a seat on the couch where he noticed a small stain of blood on it. He frowned looking up at Sam who continued to stand up staring at Nazz. After a moment they heard the girl yelp and both boys turned wondering what was happening. A few minutes later Kevin finally made his way limping down supported by Eddward. Nazz with red eyes followed behind and Sam didn't look at the girl this time.

"Kevin…goodness what happened to you?" Ed stood up looking at the freckled teen up and down.

"Long story…" Kevin nervously laughed out

"You guys make yourself comfortable, we'll be right back" Eddward grabbed Sam and dragged him to the back yard.

"Eddward listen" Sam started when Eddward shoved him out and closed the door behind them.

As soon as the swimmer turned to face Sam he lifted a fist in the air and punched the blonde teen sending him falling down hard. "How fucking dare you send him to do your dirty work!"

"Vincent! It was harmless I swear!" Sam held onto his injured eye.

"Harmless my ass! Didn't you fucking see how he came back?" Eddward spat out infuriated "He could have died last night!"

"I had no idea the masked man was going to attack him! He was only going to investigate and come back" Sam stood wiping some blood from his mouth "He wasn't supposed to get hurt, I had him covered"

"You…You had him covered?" Eddward barked out a laugh then grabbed Sam by the shirt and punched him on his stomach "You're an absolute shit hole. Do you think he would have returned like this if you had him covered?"

"You best stop fucking hitting me Vincent" Sam warned letting out a wheeze and cough as he tried to regain his composure.

"Who the fuck did you send?" The athlete questioned angrily looking away from the blonde in front knowing he would most likely punch him one more if he looked at his face.

"Trevor and his boys" Sam coughed out.

"Then where the fuck were they!?" Eddward kicked a chair he had outside and sent it flying across the backyard.

"Eddward...I understand your frustration. Calm down" Sam started once more trying to calm the enraged teen.

"Calm down? Don't fucking tell me to calm down! THIS is your doing!" Eddward shoved the blonde. "I told you my one condition, Sam. Leave him out of this"

"The Fangs have information and witnesses; it could be one of them for all we know!" Sam pushed back "We can't get anywhere near their field, Kevin is the only one we can trust who isn't associated with a gang"

"Now he is. They think he's an Eastern. What happens when they find out he's been lying and reporting back to you"

"They won't!" Sam scratched at the back of his head "Kevin's help is definitely needed now, and I...er We need him in enemy territory in case something blows up. Look, Eastern are easy going people. If Kevin talks to Papa Aloe, I'm sure he'll be able to actually join them."

"Raine isn't stupid. They're going to test Kevin's loyalty." The athlete argued with stress in his words. I'm not going to allow Kevin to get involved in this bullshit mess. He's involved enough as it is, and if the districts administration finds anything connecting Kevin to your shit he's going to have a hell of a time. He doesn't have the money to get out of problems like you. He can't afford to lose anything. Not like you and me"

"I got him covered." Sam breathed out "I'll find Trevor and find out what happened last night. At this point there isn't much you can control Eddward. You know our little freckles isn't a bystander. He'll get involved even if you like it or not, you know that. You might as well let him run free with our consent. I promise I'll keep an eye out."

Eddward just angrily stared at the blonde teen with mixed emotions radiating through his chest. He really didn't want to let Kevin into this life style, but he knew the freckled boy all too well at this point. With a sigh he crossed his arms "Don't make me regret this" Eddward pleaded the ginger teen hoping everything would be fine for him.

"Come on, let's get back inside. We need to discuss what happened" Sam rubbed at his injured face.

"Sam" Eddward barked out before the other could open the door. Sam turned to him in question waiting patiently for the other to speak up. "Leave Trevor to me tomorrow"

Sam smiled "It'll be your birthday present my dear prince" he gave a chuckle as he opened the door and stepped inside.

...

They were all sitting around the island in Eddward's kitchen. Nazz was taking notes next to Kevin on one side and Eddward and Sam in the other while Ed was the side edge looking over Nazz's notes. The girl had two columns, what they knew and didn't know. She had written down her attack and doodled the two images that the masked person vandalized.

Kevin had retold his night, skipping entirely over what had happened upon arriving at Eddward's place because that was something completely unnecessary and personal at the moment. Eddward and Sam had added about the activities Jimmy and Johnny and anyone else, who they thought suspicious among their own.

"I understand Jimmy's possible motives against me and Eddward but he wouldn't be stupid enough to actually take action. His family owes my father too much for him to risk it. As for Nazz..." he looked over to the girl who became stiff.

She looked around and made eye contact with Eddward. "I...I honestly can't be sure if it's him or not. It was dark…I was terrified"

"What could have caused him wanting to strike you down?" Ed leaned over to the girl with a sympathetic look.

She inhaled deeply looking down unable to meet Ed's eyes and glanced back over at Eddward with an unreadable expression. Everyone seemed to catch onto the interaction "what do the two of you know?" Sam glared at Eddward.

The raven haired teen stayed silent knowing how terrified the girl was of Ed finding out about Sarah's accident. The silence only paranoid the girl further, eventually she stood up "It's getting late, I should head home." She hated how obvious she was sometimes.

"Nazz" Kevin called managing to grab her hand "you can tell us"

Her blues eyes simply looked down at him with guilt and hesitance "I...I'm tired" she whimpered ripping her hand from the boys hold.

She quickly gathered her stuff and started walking out. Sam stood wanting to chase after her but was stopped by Eddward "Stay, I'll talk to her." As he walked out of the room he could sense Kevin's green eyes staring at him making feel slightly uncomfortable. "Nazz!" he called out closing the front door.

Nazz stopped mid yard gripping at her bag "I can't Vincent" she whimpered out once more shifting uneasy. "I...I can't"

The raven haired teen walked up to her placing a hand on her slender shoulder "You're not at fault... with what happened with Sarah..." he spoke in a low voice trying to get her to calm down.

"I am!" Nazz turned around looking up at the swimmer in the eyes with tear filled ones of her own. "I was there, Eddward. I was there and I didn't stop her. Ed would hate me if he knew, I'm...I'm so scared"

"It'll only hurt the both of you more if you keep this from him" Eddward frowned down at her understandingly. He knew the feelings that she was experiencing, the guilt and regret, the remorse of it all, he was feeling it too. He felt it when he was face to face with Tom and Liz. They treated him so kindly but they don't know the whole truth behind the friendship. He knew it would break him to lose the kindness and trust of Kevin's parents. "This could help us in figuring out any connections. If Jimmy knew anything about Sarah's accident"

"No one knew" She gasped out "No one ever knew I was there but Sarah and her boyfriend. I didn't even know Jimmy knew Sarah. She was younger than us. She was friends with me and her boyfriend's gang friends. Jimmy and Johnny went to Kevin's middle school but they hanged out at our school a lot. I...I don't know Vincent. I don't know who it could be. No one knew" she sniffed catching her breath.

"I understand..." Eddward gave her shoulder a gentle squeeze "we'll keep brainstorming. Are you sure that's all you know?"

The girl nodded "apart from my attacker having similar blonde curly hair... I don't know anything else. W-when they attacked me they seemed so furious...so full of pure hatred towards me. They were someone who knew Sarah and really cared about her."

Eddward was silent for a moment before dropping his hand "want me to take you home?"

"No thanks...I'll walk. I still got bodyguards" she gave a small smile pointing to a girl and guy sitting in a car across the street waiting for her "Let me know if you guys figure something out"

"Alright... don't wonder astray" Eddward reached over fixing Nazz's scarf to better cover her neck. "Kevin will most likely talk with you"

"Thanks..." she sniffed "...for not saying anything"

"It's, it's not my place to say anything" the blue eyed teen pulled down at his beanie.

"One more thing..."Nazz pulled the notebook she had been using "Here, in case you need to add something to it"

Eddward took the notebook from her hands with a nod and watch her leave rubbing tears away as she quickly walked away. He let a breath out hoping the girl would find the courage to confess, unlike him. In his mind's eye, he was still cowardly in this regard. No matter how much he wanted to make up for the damage he caused, confessing to Kevin's parents would only lead to them taking Kevin away and Eddward Vincent was selfish. He wanted to savior every possible moment he had with Kevin and his little group of friends because he knew they would all eventually disperse. It was thanks to this little gang of friends that Eddward would ultimately leave town with fond memories and that is all he could ask for.

When he returned he found Kevin in the living room against one of windows looking somber. "It's good to see the both of you getting close" the freckled teen gave him a small smile.

Eddward returned his smile "Don't look too into it…"

Kevin walked up to him giving a quick glance towards where the other two were awkwardly sitting in silence. "Is she alright?" he asked in a low voice.

"She'll be fine. Just needs a bit of a breather" Eddward followed the smaller teens gaze where Ed was looking at them with a raised eyebrow.

The freckled teen pouted bumping his arm against the others "Who would have seen the day when Nazz trusted you more than me…I'm kind of hurt"

Glancing back down Eddward smiled sympathetically at him "It's not that she doesn't trust you…It's more like, hm…common experience?" he leaned against the wall for a moment.

"Common experience? Eddward Vincent and Nazz Van Bartonschmeer?" Kevin mouth had parted "Well, care to share with me?"

Eddward shook his head with smile "Sorry Barr…that's something she's going to have to tell you"

"Ouch…" Kevin frowned crossing his arms "Fine, I'll talk to her another day. We have to finish this little…meeting" he started walking back into the other room.

Eddward followed right behind and it saddened him to see the boy limping. He could also tell his injuries still hurt very much so because he walk rather slow and his body was tense and he would slightly jolt from a rush of sudden pain. There was nothing more he wanted to do than to take away the pain and heal his wounds but unfortunately he wasn't some magical deity and Kevin would have to heal with time. For now he needed to avoid all kind of physical strain, meaning he planned on chaining up that death bike of his, and driving him everywhere among other things. Another problem he had to think about was the explanation they would have to give to Kevin's parents. This level of injury was too big to hide and Kevin would definitely need to check in at the hospital, even if he had to drag the boy himself.

He took a seat next to Kevin and made a mental note of visiting Sarah soon hoping to find something. "Alright…so as of now we have a generic description of this masked person or people. Nazz said they had a vintage hockey mask, but Kevin gathered that some of the Fangs had seen them with a different sport mask, but most commonly seen with the hockey one." He mumbled out more to himself than to the other.

"What we need to do is capture this person and interrogate them" Sam announced "If they act alone than we can easily hand them to the police and report them for assaulting Nazz"

"The authorities are going to wonder why she didn't report the attack immediately" Eddward said looking up from his notes "You can't bribe the sheriff like every other one. She's a just woman and true to the law."

"We'll say she was too scared and traumatized, which she was" Sam argued "This person threatened her to keep quiet and so on. They won't interrogate a scared white girl"

"Oh my god, alright, where do we find this masked person?" Ed leaned forward with a sigh.

"I go back to Lemon Brooke. Alone." Kevin spoke out making eye contact with Sam. "I somehow was able to draw him out last night, even though only Sam and I knew about my little mission"

"No" Eddward immediately rejected the idea "Did you tell anyone else?" he pointed at Sam with a glare.

"Again, I had to have back up nearby in case something like this happened" Sam gestured towards Kevin "My intention was to have freckles completely unharmed but I don't know what happened. Trevor reported that everything had gone alright and I trusted him but when Kevin didn't get back to me at all I suspected something was off."

"He obviously lied to you" Eddward growled out with a fist on the table.

"Disloyalty is inexcusable, I'll have his head if he is planning anything against me" Sam barked out leaning back in his chair irritated.

Ed seemed to lean away from the blonde teen clearly uncomfortable "So…We adding Trevor to the list?"

Having been ripped away from his anger for a second Eddward grabbed a pen and wrote down the name with a little description underneath. Kevin looked down at the note and stared a moment admiring the gorgeous handwriting. He had forgotten how neat the athlete wrote, and for a second remembered how similar it was to Eddward's mother. He frowned tearing his eyes away from the notebook and looked over to Ed who had been staring at him.

"Before we decide about sending freckles in again…" Sam pointed at Kevin making eye contact with Eddward disapproving eyes "We need to figure out why this person is leaving these threats on Fang and Shark Territory. If they have something truly against us, why not hit us home. Right here in peach creek?" Sam had grabbed the pen from the other and flipped the page making a doodled map of the nearby towns. "This can't be one of my own. They're all terrified of me and of him" Sam pointed at Eddward. "I can easily ruin anyone's life forever and you…" he chuckled out "you can beat the living shit out of them. You should see him in the cage freckles"

"Sam…" Eddward's low voice was a warning.

Kevin just slumped down avoiding eye contact with the teen next to him "I've been told…" he muttered out. Recalling some of the fights he had seen Eddward, but clearly they weren't anything near to the ruthlessness the king of sharks displayed in the underground fights. "…Is that why they call you the King of Sharks?" it dawned on Kevin and this time he looked up at Eddward. "If anything shouldn't he be the one with that title?" Kevin pointed at Sam.

Sam simply chuckled out and Eddward turned away slightly "…uh…" he coughed out "They call me that because I can physically win against anyone including Sam. Be it a fight or a swim meet"

"I want a rematch by the way" Sam teased the raven haired teen "You had me on a bad day"

"I won by a long shot Sam…" Eddward growled

"He's merciless" Sam turned to Kevin "Horrifically dominates in the ring, but I'm more of a lover than a fighter" he added with a wink.

"ALRIGHT! We're done for today, out!" Eddward stood grabbing onto Sam and started shoving him out before he could continue his flirting.

"You ever looking for a good time freckles, you know who to call!" Sam blew a kiss into the general direction of the kitchen as Eddward shoved the blonde out the door. They stayed at the entrance for a moment mumbling something between each other before Eddward slammed the door shut.

Kevin looked at Ed with raised eyebrows "He flirts with every human being that crosses his path" Ed explained unfazed.

This little interaction only brought back last night's events after the accident…Eddward's father angered yells and his disgusted expression. Kevin pressed his lips together not wanting to make the raven haired teen uneasy. Ed knew…Kevin was sure of it but right now was not the time to talk about it. They had other things in mind at the moment.

"So…" Ed leaned in a whisper "I was thinking of buying some simple decoration for tomorrow…you think it's a good idea?"

Eddward's birthday… "Just not anything too extravagant I guess" Kevin smiled knowing the other wouldn't appreciate anything too messy and noisy "No confetti"

"Bummer" Ed pouted placing a hand on his cheek "I wanted to get a piñata full of confetti"

"What are the two of you whispering about?" Eddward tried hiding his flushed face as he took a seat where Sam had sat.

"Oh nothing important" Ed singed out pulling out his wallet "Just that I finally got my driver's license a few days ago" he showed the two of them with a proud smile.

"Ed!" Kevin beamed stealing the license from the boys hand "This is awesome! Congrats"

"What made you finally get it?" Eddward gave him a sift look "I thought you were too…frightened" knowing Ed had become a lot more fearful as a person ever since his sister's accident.

"Well…" he sighed taking his wallet back and looking down "I guess I sucked it up and conquered my fear. I don't want to be a burden for you guys and with everything that's been going on…I thought it was about time"

Kevin and Eddward simply smiled encouragingly before Eddward stood up with a sigh and turned to the freckled boy. "It's time for you to go home" he quietly spoke out.

"What? Why!" Kevin squeaked out lifting himself up straight pretending nothing hurt but failing.

"You need to go to the hospital and get checked out by a professional" Eddward placed a hand on his hip.

"I'm fine, Look!" the freckled boy extended his arms that caused him to hunch over in pain. Then frowned looking away "I'll recovery soon enough. I don't need a doctor"

"Kevin, I'm not letting you go another day without going into the hospital. I may have cleaned up the exterior damages but I can't do anything about any interior damages. Besides, your father will be furious with you if you don't go back soon" the raven haired teen pulled at his beanie in discomfort at the last statement.

"But…I want to stay with you" Kevin mumbled out quietly embarrassed trying not to catch Ed's eye.

"Kevin, Double D is right." Ed leaned in onto the table with a soft smile "You can barely walk and it would give this guy some peace of mind if you listened to him for once" the boy chuckled looking between the expressions of the two. "Besides, I'll stay with Double D tonight so he's not lonely"

Kevin looked up at him then and he knew that Ed had some knowledge that something wasn't alright with the athlete. Perhaps then Eddward would be ok if he left. Perhaps he needed Ed to talk to more than Eddward needed him "Ok…"

After a few seconds Eddward placed a gentle hand on Kevin shoulder "Come on then, I'll drive you home. I'll keep your motorcycle in the garage in the meantime"

Kevin stood then and said his goodbyes and with the help of the raven haired teen he was able to gather his stuff and get into the black car. He had tried to steal the East Sharks leather jacket but Eddward had ripped it away from his hands and said it would stay with him to which Kevin simply pouted.

As they drove into the town making their way to the eastern side of Peach Creek Kevin could tell Eddward was really nervous to confront his father. He didn't have to, he really didn't but he was going to because he felt some sort of responsibility. Kevin looked away out into the street watching residents live such carefree lives.

He hadn't realized when he had fallen asleep but next thing he knew Eddward was leaning over him undoing the seatbelt. He turned a bit to look at him and Eddward then noticed he was awake. His ocean blue eyes carefully observing his wide olives ones. Kevin could feel a heat rise throughout his entire body and slowly crawl up to his freckled face. Eddward was too close…far too close that Kevin could poke the others cheek with his nose if he moved an inch forward.

A moment that seemed to be frozen in time then was then melted by Eddward looking then leaning away "We're here…"

Kevin lightly patted his left cheek trying to regain his composure and started to get out. However as he tried to take a step he felt a sharp pain from his damaged leg all the way up to his back. He groaned out hunching over a bit holding onto the car's door for support.

"Here…" Eddward quietly spoke out bending down before placing a hand on Kevin's good back side and lifting the boy up in arms with ease. "Does it hurt if I carry you?"

Kevin blushed at the quiet words that were so close he could feel the boys breath graze the skin on his face "A bit… but this is better" Kevin decided to let his head drop to the teen's shoulder and closed his eyes enjoying the physical closeness of the blue eyed teen. He felt almost selfish for craving the closeness of Eddward but he would let himself enjoy it for now and not think about it too much. He couldn't really let himself think about it for too long, not right now.

All he knew was that he didn't want to be left to sleep alone. But Eddward was against him pending another night at his place. He wished the boy would stay…he just wanted—needed—one more night next to the swimmer. Although he wouldn't mind the company of the either Ed or Nazz… it wasn't the same.

Eddward put him down when they were in front of Kevin's door. His observant eyes stared down at the freckled teen in silence and Kevin didn't look away. He held the boys stare then. It wasn't like moments ago… this was a serious stare. Kevin knew something was going through the others head as if debating something. Eddward then reached a hand to Kevin's bandaged cheek making him wince. Then he felt the hand slowly creep down and gently caress his neck. Kevin opened his eyes once more seeing the frown on the others lips and his blue eyes look at the bandage on his shoulder that peeked through his borrowed oversized hoodie. "I'm going to be ok…" Kevin mumbled out.

"I know that" Eddward tilted his head a bit looking over all the bruises he knew were under the concealing sweatshirt.

Kevin smiled "I've got you by my side"

Eddward lowered his hand with a somber look "I wasn't there to prevent this"

"But this isn't your fault. I went behind your back" Kevin frowned rising on his toes to give the other a bump with his forehead. "But it'll be fine next time...I promise. I'll be more cautious"

Eddward now simply met Kevin's olive green eyes and stared at them as if trying to find courage in his words. "I'm hoping there won't be a next time..." he lowered his gaze to the boy's small hands.

Kevin sighed out as Eddward once again interrupted the moment before he could say anything and knocked on the door even though Kevin had wanted to sneak inside.

When Tom opened the door and saw the two at the entrance he had smiled but upon seeing his son's state and quickly hearing Kevin's explanation Tom was…mad.

He wasn't furious with either boy but was definitely mad at Kevin for not being careful enough and disappointed with Eddward for not taking his son to the hospital that night. Kevin had for the most part taken fault in it even though Eddward tried to take some of the blame.

After some time of argument Eddward finally left the Barr home. Tom had placed a hand on his back and thanked him for 'dealing with his ridiculous son'. Eddward forced a smile and left.

The drive back wasn't a pleasant one. The raven haired boy could feel himself on the verge of a panic attack from the overwhelming emotional events.

He wasn't ok.

...

Kevin had been dragged by the ear to the hospital that late afternoon his father however still clearly upset was also glad that Kevin wasn't in a worse condition.

Dr. Jones, the doctor that had attended him last time he was there was kind enough to take it easy on him. When she had finished examining him she had concluded that there were no extreme internal damages, but he would not be allowed to do any intense physical labor for a good month while his body healed. She said that there would be a high risk of lingering shoulder pain that may or may not ever go away, time would only tell. His left foot was sprained and she had him put on a boot so he wouldn't further damage it. By the end of her ranting about all the antibiotics he would need she also said she wouldn't be giving him any form of pain killers due to his last incident. She also praised Eddward's work, though she had no idea it was him but the praise made Kevin smile.

He wondered if Eddward would ever consider going into the medical field…

Once the Barr men arrived home Tom had helped him to his room. Kevin frowned catching a glimpse of his old man's tired face. Somehow, his father looked much older than what his actual age was. The white hairs starting to poke though the man's orange hair stood out more so than ever and Kevin felt horrible for not noticing earlier. His father was growing older and here he was causing so much trouble for him when he should be helping his old man.

Kevin slumped down covering himself all the way to his face feeling tears building up. He felt utterly useless in his current state. He couldn't do a thing to help anyone and instead they were helping him out. He wanted to get up and do something but he couldn't not with a bad leg and shoulder. Hopefully he would recovery soon…

It was much darker when he awoke…

…Cold and alone and wanting nothing more than to see the raven haired teen sleeping next to him.

...

Ed had tried talking to him when Eddward had arrived home in a panicked state. He couldn't talk though. No words would come out and instead he wondered into his room and fell asleep. When he woke up it was in the middle of the night. He had stayed in bed for a bit unable to sleep and listening to Ed's muffled snores coming from the bedroom next door. Finally he decided to stand up and quietly closed the door as he stepped into the dark hallways of his home.

He leaned his back on the door and let a breath out as the door across the hallway faced him with an eerie feeling. So much had happen in a span of two days and he was beyond overwhelmed and in no way wanted the next day to come. He would spend the day trying to forget it was his birthday and move on as if it was any other day.

The quietness of the room urged him to walk forward and open the door. At first it was only enough for him look inside. The pitch black of the room comforted him enough to swing the door open. He knew his father wasn't in the study but it did not change the fear he had whenever he stepped inside. He closed the door and slowly walked towards the desk feeling for the lamp to turn the light on.

A burst of yellow light brought the study into full focus and suddenly he could remember standing on that spot almost 12 years back watching his father pacing around the room looking through his books and picking him up in his arms sitting Eddward in his lap as he sat down on the velvet leather seat in the corner and teaching him some of the medical terminology and what he did in the hospital. Eddward would be heavily invested in these rare moments with his father. It was only a few years later that he remembered being kicked out of the room. The man was stressed and preferred solitude and silence. Rarely would he wonder down to join him and his mother for dinner. It was at this point in his lifetime when he couldn't truly remember his father smile, over time it had faded and changed into a stern frown. After his 9th birthday, it was when little Eddward realized the man hadn't even given him a pat on the back nor a proud look in years. He remembered that his mother was even distant with the man as compared to the earlier years of their relationship when he was a toddler.

At this time he remembered seeing a huge change in his mother as well. It hadn't been towards him at first; it had been towards everyone who crossed her path. He remembered hearing his parents fighting downstairs. He remembered her smile starting to fade and would easily burst at her coworkers. She didn't ever seem to have friends of her own and anyone who visited them had been from his father's field. He remembered his mother forcing a smile at him, forcing herself to touch and kiss him. At one point nights before she disappeared along with his father he remembered seeing her crying in this office holding onto a picture that his mind had blurred over time. She had looked up at him from her curled up position with a fury in her dark blue eyes. He had tried to comfort her but she had shoved him out of the office locking herself inside. Her crying haunted him all through the night and to this day.

Why she had been crying with such agony that night, he never knew.

It wasn't until he returned home one day that he found the majority of their stuff gone. He had searched for a note telling him they had gone off on a business trip of some sort but never found one. The next day he turned the house inside out trying to find anything even calling them. When they never answered he knew there had been only one reason why they had left. He was so sure…

Eddward slid down onto the floor feeling the pain of remembering…

A year prior to their disappearance when the sun was still brightly high in the sky, little Eddward had been out playing with Blaine. A friend his father never seemed to approve of but never said anything against the boy out of proper mannerism.

Up until then, Eddward had been taught to live life honoring God and God's word from his father and mother but when the brunette boy had leaned in that afternoon and pressed his thin lips onto his own…he hadn't moved back. He hadn't pushed the boy away and he hadn't been disgusted with the action. Two boys? It had never occurred to him a possibility but then again he hadn't thought anything of the girls while boys like Eddy were annoyingly trying to steal a kiss from the girls. The innocent kiss his friend had given him had been nothing but a pure intention of affection. If he hadn't known what it was to like-like someone, well, that day he had understood.

His friend was kind, and fun and full of life in ways that Eddward had forgotten about in his early age. It had been through the simple moments of skipping rocks and wondering through town to the junkyard and getting lost in the woods of town that he found himself become inseparable from the boy.

And then Blaine had done it again months later when they had been playing in the middle of the woods by their hideout. It had been just as they were about to leave to their respected homes, it was late…close to dinner time. Blaine had laced his pale chubby fingers with his own slender ones and had laughed out with a blush in his cheeks. The raven haired teen had known the boy was nervous about something because his hands where holding his a bit too tight and he wouldn't make eye contact. Finally he had looked up with determination in his pale brown eyes and leaned forward kissing him.

Once again Eddward hadn't moved away instead he found himself pressing forward and tilting his head just a bit as not to bump their noses. He knew this was wrong, everything he had been taught had his mind flashing red lights but he couldn't pull away. It had been a battle of mind and heart but his heart had won the moment Blaine had looked at him with wide eyes full of wondrous joy when he had pulled back. Eddward had blushed giving in and was going to lean forward to hug the boy when he heard a low gasp.

They had turned around to face no other than his own father, Mr. Vincent.

The events of what followed had blurred. All he remembered was ending up locked in his room and his mother's cries. He hadn't been allowed to see Blaine, and days later had found out the boy had moved away. The reason why he never knew but he had always blamed his father for it.

When his father reappeared two weeks later after their disappearance, it wasn't to come back for him. Something was horribly wrong that evening but Eddward would have never been able to foresee to what extend his father's fury reached.

He knew he had done wrong and had dishonored God's love by allowing such a sinful thing to happen. But he had been happy…

It was the first time he had come home to find the dreaded wine glasses scattered around the house. It had been the first time he had seen the door to the study open and it had been the only time he had been hopeful and happy to see the light of this room on. He had rushed up the stairs to find his old man sitting at his desk in complete distraught. Two broken wine bottles, books thrown across the room, and furniture flipped. His smile had gone as he looked at his father who held onto an unbroken bottle with eyes lost as if he was in a haze. It had been the start to his utter fear and hatred towards the man he had once highly respected and admired.

It was as if he could feel the physical and emotional mix of pain from that night all over again. It was as if he could feel the open wound on his scalp, the tender flesh stinging from the exposure of the air and he could remember running a finger and caught a small shard of glass that was still stuck inside the cut. His left eye had been blinded by the blood that had gushed out. His knees cut and scraped from the glass on the floor, and his cheek burned from the hard slap he had received. As the moon rose higher, it all eventually numbed…he had stopped crying, he had stopped caring.

He had figured this was the consequence of his actions, of feeling the way he felt and craving the things his heart desired.

This was God's punishment.

He understood then.

He understood now.

Eddward had pressed his back against the desk and looked out at the chair his father had sat down with him in his lap unable to hold tears back.

He had to repeat this lesson in his mind. He wouldn't let himself fall down that spiral of desire. No matter how much his heart craved to have the freckled teen alongside him. No matter the…infatuation… he wouldn't drag Kevin down in his hell. He just couldn't accept this desire, he wouldn't it was wrong. He knew it was wrong. Everyone had abandoned him for that reason alone. He would embrace such sin.

It still hurt. No matter how many years passed he still hurt. Though sometimes he still wished that man, his father, would one day embrace him. He still desired to see his mother walk through the front door and smile like she used to. It all still hurt.

…

Ed had woken up early finding Eddward in the backyard quietly looking onto nothing with a cigarette in hand. He frowned at the thing and carefully approached the boy "I didn't know you smoked" he asked as he stepped out into the cold winter air.

"hm…I don't do it too often" Eddward mumbled looking down at the cigarette in hand.

"…" Ed observed the boy's face recognizing the sleeplessness and sadness in his facial features "Hey…did something else happen?"

Eddward didn't meet his eye he just breathed in deeply as he placed the cigarette in his mouth. He left it in place for a few moments before turning away from the other boy and breathing out. "…"

Ed frowned noticing the slight tremble of the teen's hand "Eddward" he called out but got no response from him again "Eddward what happened?" he placed a hand on the boy's shoulder hoping to turn him around to face him. "Eddward" he pleaded.

Eddward continued to stay silent for a few minutes longer simply continuing to take in the cigarette. Finally when the cigarette was small enough he dropped it on to the ground and stepped on it. It was then Eddward finally looked up at Ed with a frown. "He knows…"

Ed was a bit confused at first looking at Eddward for clarification. "Kevin…knows" Eddward's trembling hand answered the question he had.

Ed reached out to hold the boy's hand "…how?"

"He was here…Father" Eddward gasped out clearly holding himself back. "I…"

Ed began to worry seeing the strain that Eddward was forcing to hold back all his mixed emotions. He didn't want to see him like this right now, not ever, especially not on the day that was his birthday. "Come inside…we can talk"

Eddward shook his head "No…I can't…go inside. I can't"

"Eddward…look at you" Ed placed a hand to the other's back "You need to let it out and calm down. You've been holding all of this for too long"

"I can't" the raven haired teen refused his eyes red and his hands in fist.

Ed knew he wasn't alright and the brunette needed to figure something out fast. "I'll…I'll call Kevin—"

"No!" Eddward grabbed the other "Don't…please don't"

Ed sighed out unsure of what to do and then as a breeze stung his pale cheek he had an idea "Let's go somewhere else. How about that?" he smiled trying to encourage the other. After a few moments Eddward looked up and finally nodded to the idea. "Mind if I drive your car?"

Eddward gave him a look at first but then shook his head. Ed placed a hand on the others back pushing him inside. Eddward hesitated and heavily tensed up once inside but he walked into the kitchen where his keys were.

He grabbed Eddward's keys and slipped inside Eddward's room walked over to grab a coat for the other as well as a scarf. Eddward was waiting for him outside the house. Ed smiled giving the other the clothing to put on and making their way to Eddward's car. He frowned upon seeing the wrecked motorcycle in the garage. It truly was a miracle that nothing worse happened to the freckled boy.

Ed breathed in taking ahold of the wheel and then letting it out as he back out feeling confident. Everything would be alright. He looked over at his friend who still continued to have trembling hands. He hoped this little trip would give him some peace of mind.

…

Nazz had received a text from Ed letting her know not to do anything too big and that they would be out for until school started that morning. She wondered if Tom would allow Kevin out of the house that day. She found the spare key to Eddward's house and opened the front door. It was all so quiet, she placed down Eddward's present on the coffee table and took her coat off hanging it in the entrance. She looked down at the clock reading 7 in the morning. It really was still so horribly early…

With a pout she decided to put some music as she opened the bags she had full off groceries and décor. She wanted everything to be decorated before school started then when they arrived after school this would a surprise! Though, she was expecting either Kevin or Ed to help but with the current situation she was left to do it all on her own. Typical boys…

Nevertheless she smiled looking down at the shark cutouts she had found. The grumpy looking one was her favorite…maybe she should grab a sharpie and color in a beanie. She giggled to herself.

…

Ed had driven them out of town and in less than half an hour had arrived at a deserted beach. They had slowly gotten out of the car and slowly made their way down to the beach. "Ever been here D?" Ed asked quietly.

"I haven't been here since…elementary" Eddward mumbled out looking around. It was just them and the cold water that splashed heavily onto the ground. The cold wind had picked up the closer they got to the water.

Ed had left Eddward along for a couple of minutes in order to let the water do her magic. As soon as the raven haired teen stepped into the water his tense posture had relaxed. Ed hanged back looking out onto his friend as he took a seat on the stand and pulled his coast closer to his body.

After what seemed like a good 15 minutes Eddward turned back and joined Ed on the sand. "Feeling better?"

"Somewhat" the other mumbled out staring out onto the ocean water.

With a sigh Ed then approached the question once more "So…what happened?"

Eddward then looked down at his hands "Father…came home the same night Kevin had his accident. He…" the teen paused a moment "He was attempting to fix me"

"Fix you…?" Ed frowned knowing exactly what the man was trying to repair "There's nothing wrong with you Double D"

"Really?" Eddward looked over at him with a frown "If there truly isn't wrong with me then please explain why my parents left? Explain why you and Eddy left?"

"Double D…" Ed shook his head

"I'm tired of being seen as a mistake, Ed. I want my family back" Eddward croaked out pulling the beanie down a bit.

"Look, I know you miss them. You're mom especially. I know you do" Ed leaned forward "But the route you want to take is going to be the biggest regret of your life. You're not allowing yourself to truly live and love. You can't if you're forever going to repress yourself like this"

"I'm repressing a mistake is all"

"It's not a mistake Double D!" Ed huffed out "I know like 85% of our town is close minded and traditional, it's the unfortunate truth, but that isn't how the world truly is. It's hard now but it will get easier with time so long as you have friends by your side. You have me, Kevin and Nazz"

"Ed…" Eddward couldn't look at the other in the eye. He felt his eyes burning. "After everything…after graduation do you honestly think we will all stay as we are? After graduation we all go our separate ways…none of us want to stay in Peach Creek. I know you will all leave. I'm leaving"

"That doesn't mean we won't be friends still" Ed frowned "Double D…I know it's hard for you to accept…to accept yourself, but I know that between Kevin, Nazz and I, well, we all accept you for who you are. We all really do care about you. I'm sorry for everything that happened before. I know I left you, I know I wronged you and backstabbed you before. I know I failed as your friend but I won't do it again not this time and I promise it's not out of selfish intention. I don't want to redeem myself I want to help you and be your friend and continue to be your friend even after high school. I know Kevin will want to latch on to you too, imagine how hurt he's going to be if you lose contact with him." Ed chuckled out.

The brunette boy stared at his teary friend with a soft smile "I know you have feelings…feelings for him" Ed stated and placed a hand on Eddward's shoulder when the boy looked over with wide eyes. "You can't reject this part of you forever. It's only going to be a constant torment"

"If there is one thing I've learned from my nana. It is that God loves all…no matter who they choose to love or how they choose to love themselves. It's hard for me to believe that Jesus wouldn't side with the minority who are hurting. You're hurting Eddward. God is with you and God loves you for who you choose to be and love. How could something that makes you feel love be wrong?"

Eddward only continued to look at him with wide eyes as if processing what the teen had just said. Slowly Eddward turned back to stare at the ocean water. "You're human Eddward. You feel, you see, you touch just as I do. Just as everyone." He lowered his hand "every aspect of you, your seriousness, your competiveness, your caring and thoughtful aspects are as much a part of you as who you love. Sometimes you can't choose who to fall in love with but your heart craves for that person and no matter what you do you can't ignore them. You shouldn't ignore them. You shouldn't hurt yourself like that."

Eddward turned back with tear filled eyes once more towards his friend and silently listened. "You're human Eddward and there is nothing wrong with you. You're allowed to live your life happily not matter what that means. You're human. Everything that you are makes you human. You are human, I'm human we all are and we all want to love and be loved. It's all we are"

Ed stood then and extended a hand for his friend "I promise you…we're not going anywhere without you"

Eddward took the others hand and stood up wiping away at his eyes. It was hard…he wanted to believe Ed he truly did but it was hard.

"Now" Ed pulled Eddward towards the water. He inhaled deeply before letting out a strong scream that took the raven haired teen by surprise. With a wide smile and heavy breathes he turned towards Eddward "…your turn" he laughed out.

It took a moment for Eddward to register what was happening but he felt all the pent up emotions crawling from the pit of his stomach and as he squeezed his friend's hand he let out a loud and rough scream that had the other smiling wider. He couldn't be more grateful for having Ed back in his life.

…

"Dad I swear I'm fine, please let me go, pleeeeeease" Kevin begged his father before he left for work.

"You're not going to school or anywhere else today and that's final Kevin" Tom rubbed at his temples in frustration

"Dad! It's Eddward's birthday today I HAVE to go!" Kevin whined throwing the gift in his gather's face for emphasis.

"I'm sure Eddward understands why you won't be there, since he's the one who brought you home yesterday. You can give it to him next week"

"It HAS to be TODAY" Kevin felt warmth rising to his face the more he whined.

Tom sighed out pressing his back to the wall next to the front door and gave his tiny son a look "and why does it have to be today, may I ask?"

"Ugh…." Kevin groaned out not looking at anything but his father "We…Nazz, Ed and I had a surprise party planned for Eddward. He…He doesn't really celebrate it and we thought we'd do something simple for him. He deserves it."

When Kevin looked up he found his father with crossed arm and a soft smile on his tired face as he observed his son. "Well, how about we compromise then? You stay home for now… and then I'll drive you over to Eddward's for a bit after alright?"

"But what if you have to work over time again…" Kevin frowned knowing that possibility was more likely than not.

"I promise, I'll be home around three today" Tom reached out his hand sticking his pinky out "Pinky promise" he chuckled out.

The ginger teen chuckled out as he took his father's finger with his own and shook it with a smile. He wouldn't be mad if this promise was broken…he understood his father had a lot to deal with. However, he hoped that maybe this time it would be a kept promise. "Have a good day at work dad"

"See ya at three kiddo. Remember not to do anything straining" Tom stepped out the door.

Kevin smiled admiring his hard working father…

Maybe he should look into getting a job after his recovery. He knew his father needed the extra money, and he was young and optimistic. Maybe…

Kevin limped into the living room laying down on the couch and covering himself with a thick fuzzy blanket since it took him forever to get upstairs without help. He took his phone out and sent a message to the group chat informing them of his absence. He then placed his phone on the floor and turned closing his eyes and falling asleep once more.

…

Eddward had insisted on going back to his house to properly change into clothes before heading out for school and because of this he had forced the teen to walk upstairs with his beanie pulled over his face in order for the athlete not to see the décor Nazz had left. Ed was very pleased with the girl. This, however, annoyed Eddward but he simply went along with too tired to fight and knowing it would make the other happy.

At this point their whole surprise thing wasn't much of a surprise anymore but at least the raven haired teen had seen anything yet. Guiding Eddward back down was easier because Ed had decided to simply wrap an arm around the other and carry him out. "This is ridiculous…" Eddward had muttered out tiredly. "Ed, I told you—" he began ripping off his beanie.

"This was Kevin's idea!" Ed blurted out locking the door behind them "He was really excited about it…so…for him?" he chuckled out.

The other let out a sigh readjusting his hat and without looking at the brunette boy mumbled a "fine"

Ed laughed slinging an arm around Eddward's shoulder pulling him close and made to walk to the car "You can't say no to him can you"

"I don't know what you're talking about" the raven haired boy muttered out a blush creeping onto his tanned skin.

"I'm happy you found someone to…like again" Ed carefully spoke out starting the car again as Eddward was still not 100% in the mental state to drive.

"Marie was different…" Eddward sank in his seat not denying Ed's statement.

"Yeah…she was the one who liked you right…" Ed smiled somberly remembering how broken she became towards the end of her relationship with the raven haired teen.

"Hm…then she left" Eddward stared out his window looking at the sky turn brighter.

"You know, she didn't leave you because…of your sexuality…she left because of your shitty personality back then Double D." Ed huffed out "You really hurt her. I thought that maybe she would be good for you, but…"

"I'm sorry…" Eddward pulled his beanie down a bit uncomfortable with the memories flooding his brain of the girl.

"She's the one who gave you that hat right?" Ed gave him a side glance "Was it a birthday present?"

"mhm" Eddward hummed out "Yeah…she knew I hated my scar and got the hat for me to hide it"

The brunette just smiled in silence for a moment "Maybe you didn't love her the way she loved you but…in the end you really did care for her. It shows, because you treasure that hat a lot. I'm sure she knows it"

"She doesn't…she never knew" Eddward pulled on his hat more avoiding eye contact by gluing his eye sight to the window even though he wasn't paying attention to anything that passed.

"The important thing is that you've changed" Ed gave his friend a bump with his elbow "Maybe one day, you can apologize to her."

"Perhaps" Eddward spoke out quietly

"Don't look so down, it's your birthday. Fake a smile if you have to but Kevin wouldn't be happy to see you look sad today"

The swimmer let out a sigh finally changing his perspective to something else "He won't be coming to school today, so it doesn't matter"

When the car stopped at a red light Ed quickly pulled out his phone and took a quick picture of Eddward who straighten up immediately with a red face "What the hell Ed!"

"He may not be at school but I'll be his eyes for now. I'm sending him this picture" Ed giggled out throwing his phone between his legs so the other wouldn't grab it.

"You're insufferable" the teen sank once again into his seat pulling with both hands at his hat in embarrassment. He hated pictures and he hated his friend for making him suffer like this. Maybe he should have skipped school today.

"Nope, you love me" the brunette teased driving once again as the light turned green.

"…" the teen mumbled something too quietly that Ed couldn't hear but he knew the truth. Man, he hated himself for not trying to make friends with Double D much sooner. Maybe he wouldn't have been in so much emotional distress if he had someone to talk to back then. He had been a coward, a horrible person for villainizing him knowing Eddward's backstory…knowing how much he needed someone in his life.

Once they pulled into the parking lot of the school Ed stopped a moment remembering he was missing Eddward's gift "…Double D, I have a present for you but it's at home. So I'll go get it after school alright?"

"You don't have to get me anything Ed" the red on Eddward's cheeks returned as he quickly got out of the car and made his way to the entrance of the school.

"Wait for me, birthday jerk" Ed scurried out of the car locking it and slinging his backpack over his shoulder. He handed the keys over to Eddward as they made their way to the hallway where Nazz's locker was.

"Nazz!" Ed called out raising a hand and wildly waving at her with a huge smile on his face.

The girl quickly turned hiding something behind her back and a pout on her face. "Morning boys" she looked down at the floor in thought and as the Ed's stopped in front of her. Then she let out a sigh and quickly brought a bag up to Eddward's face with a blush and an intense stare "Happy Birth…day" she spoke out quietly "it's for you, take it."

Eddward raised an eyebrow and with wide eyes he hesitantly took the bag and looked inside seeing a pumpkin colored knitted yarn. He pulled it out seeing it was a scarf…she surely hadn't…

"I knitted it myself so…you better take good care of it" she turned shutting her locker.

Oh… Eddward took the entire scarf out admiring the girls work. "Thanks…" he mumbled out quietly unsure of how to respond.

Ed giggled elbowing Eddward on the side "put it on"

Slowly Eddward did as directed and loved the soft feel of the material. "You didn't have to…" he looked down at the scarf too shy to look at the girl.

"It's fine… take it as a thank you for everything you've done for me" Nazz crossed her arms proud that the grumpy shark seemed to like it.

"Why did you pick an orange color?" Ed wiggled his eyebrows at the girl.

Eddward noticed then, the shade of orange reminded him of… he tried not to blush at what Ed was insinuating. Ed really was trying to torment him today…ugh.

"…Because I like the color and I thought it would look good on you so" she shrugged looking away.

"Thanks again" Eddward gave the girl a small smile before their conversation was interrupted by a roar of cheering behind them.

"CAPTAIN!" Eddward's swim team came running through the hall and surrounded the raven haired and blocking Ed and Nazz from him. "HAPPY BIRTHDAY CAPTAIN" they said in unison.

Eddward groaned something clearly embarrassed from all the attention on him since his loud team catch the attention of everyone on the hallway and even having some students poke their heads wanting to see what was the ruckus about.

Elijah stepped forward giving Eddward a card and a small box "This is from all of us on the team! You're the best captain we could have asked for! And the grumpiest" he snickered. "I'm hoping for a rematch in today's practice, I've been working really hard!"

The king of sharks took the card that had a shark on it with a drawn crown on top. He opened it quickly looking inside and reading only a few of the notes written inside. "…" he wasn't expecting so much attention. Not at all what the hell?

Suddenly his team started chuckling closing the circle around him in a big group hug "He's blushing!" one guy called out "Our captain is too cute!" another laughed out "He actually has more emotions than anger!" Another cried.

The squish feeling was too uncomfortable for him to bear any longer it was like one of Ed's hugs "Alright Alright, Enough!" Eddward yelled out irritated "Get off or I'll make everyone here swim 100 laps!"

At this everyone quickly backed off knowing their captain wasn't lying "Open your present Captain!"

With a pout Eddward hesitantly opened the small box revealing a necklace with a shark tooth on it and engraved on the back was a tiny crown. "We all noticed you havened been wearing your dog tags this year at all. We thought maybe you wanted something new to wear…" A senior student gave Eddward a weak punch to his shoulder.

"Thanks" After the shit past two days he had been having he really didn't know how to react to all this…appreciation. What the fuck was even happening.

"We should throw you a party tomorrow Captain!" one blurted out

"Why tomorrow? His birthday's today and it's Friday" another protested

"I'm sure our Captain has plans with his nerd friends today" the senior member nodded directing everyone's attention back to Ed and Nazz who stood quietly observing the commotion.

"Ah…why you gotta steal our Captain?" one pouted

"Tomorrow! At the cabin" Sam's obnoxious voice rang through the hall as he approached the group. He looked over at Eddward with a look "Let them have him today, tomorrow we'll celebrate our beloved King of Sharks"

"Sam…" Eddward growled out not wanting another chaotic thing to blow up.

"You don't have a say Eddward, someone special will be there wanting to see you" Sam spoke softly "tomorrow your all ours"

With that final note the bell finally rang indicating all students to head to class.

…

When Kevin finally got up from the couch ripping away from his 5th round of Overwatch, he noticed it was nearing 2 and he still hadn't heard anything from his father. Maybe the man would come back on time. He wondered through the kitchen grabbing snacks and making his way to the living room once more where it appeared he had made a nest on the couch. He wrapped the blankets around himself and picked up his phone seeing the most current picture update from Ed. Kevin smiled looking at a blushing Eddward as Nazz forced a necklace on the teen. The message said the necklace was from Eddward's team.

Wow, he hadn't realized that Eddward's team would probably have gotten him something too. It made him so happy realizing how more open the grumpy teen was to everyone now. He wondered if this was too overwhelming for him, but maybe this was a good thing?

Kevin smiled looking at the box on the coffee table wondering if the teen would like his gift. He'd been working it over a month now, a little here and there. It hadn't been hard but still it made him nervous to think about giving it to the raven haired teen. He really hoped Eddward would like it.

.

.

.

His smile quickly turned into a frown however, when harsh words popped into his head from the previous night…

…

Eddward had stopped by his locker placing a textbook he wouldn't need this weekend when he got received a message from Sam [Stop by the base before going home, your present is waiting there]

He sighed knowing he meant Trevor was most likely tied up for him to easily punch the living shit out of him. With a small angered growl he made his way to Ed's locker on the other side of the hall. "Ed" he called out approaching the teen.

"You ready Double D?" Ed poked his head out of the locker.

"Yeah, I uh, need to make a small stop somewhere first…Meet you guys back at my place then?" Eddward looked at the boy's coat in hand feeling awkward about this whole celebrating thing they had planned.

Ed paused looking at Eddward suspiciously but upon reading the boys facial expression de decided everything would be fine. Ed just didn't want his friend to be anxious about their little party or whatever else he had in mind. Not today at least, but he couldn't help it. "Yeah, no worries!" He smiled shoving on his jacket.

With a nod Eddward began walking out of the hallway when a small hand stopped him. He turned to see a flustered Nazz glaring at his chest. With question he looked down to see the scarf she had given him hanging from his shoulders "it's really cold out, here" she reached up to properly wrap the scarf around him and he let her. He heard some people murmuring behind their backs assuming things they shouldn't but he ignored them. With that he gave the girl a small smile of gratitude and left.

Nazz let out a sigh turning to Ed with a curious look "What you think he's up to?"

The tall boy leaned down and in a quiet voice answered the girl "I think he just needs a breather. Did you notice how anxious he was today?" he gigged.

"From all the attention?" she asked with a roll of her eyes "He loved it"

"Maybe" Ed shrugged "But knowing Double D…he was definitely freaking out inside"

"He'll be fine once he's home and see's Kevin again" she huffed slipping on her leather gloves "I swear, they can't be apart for more than a couple of hours before they get separation anxiety"

"mmhm" Ed agreed "…yeah" he wouldn't tell the girl about his talk with Eddward, not yet at least. He wanted Eddward to process their talk, and everything that has happened. Hopefully with time he would allow himself to open his heart to the freckled teen. "Well, let's go get his the source of his anxiety" the taller teen reached out to grab the girl's shoulder and push her through the school's hallways.

…

Eddward pulled up to the abandoned factory on the east side. A part of him wanting to see Kevin knowing he was close but a bigger part of him was fueled with rage at the subject that waited him inside the building.

He stepped out of his car instantly feeling the sharp pain of the winter's breeze claw at his skin. A goon opened the door as soon as he spotted him outside waving and stepping aside for the king of sharks. "Boss is waiting for you downstairs" Eddward nodded and started heading towards the stairs "Captain!" he turned "…happy birthday Cap" with a nod Eddward turned back internally groaning. Who decided to announce his dreaded birthday to the world?

The arena was vividly lit up and there were a handful of people surrounding the cage alongside Sam who smiled wickedly upon spotting him walking down. "Welcome Home Eddward!" Sam announced opening up his arms in gesture. "We've all been waiting patiently for you to arrive birthday boy" he hummed out.

The raven haired teen made his way to the gang with his hands shoved in his coats pockets. "Where is he?" Eddward growled out impatiently.

"My, so eager for his present. Careful boys this shark's teeth are extra sharp today" Sam laughed out lifting a hand gesturing a silent order. Someone from the back of the group left, opening a door and pulling out none other than Trevor.

Instantly Eddward felt his fury run through his veins but Sam placed a hand to his chest. "Be patient and you shall be rewarded" he said in a quiet voice with a devil like smile.

The goon shoved Trevor in front of Sam and Eddward. The teen was arms were handcuffed behind his back and tape had been placed on his mouth. The teen had a sharp red mark on his cheek clearly from a very hard slap from Sam. "I wanted to have him completely untouched for you but…he made me very angry" the swimmer simply huffed out with a stabbing glare to the tied up boy in front of him. "Now, Trevor here tells me everything was fine…that he saw Kevin reach Peach Creek safely, that the night was quiet and he decided to go home."

"You're lying" Eddward growled out taking a step closer to Trevor who was sweating in fear.

"Eddward, in what state did Kevin come to you last night?" Sam breathed in placing his hands behind his back and looking up for a second.

"He was fucking drenched in his own fucking blood!" Eddward grabbed at Trevor's shirt pulling him closer "You irresponsible piece of shit, who the fuck told you to leave before your duties were fulfilled? Who the fuck do you think you are letting Kevin come back like that! You should be dead for all I fucking care."

With a laugh Sam broke the tense air. The handful of members were terrified of the rage filled Eddward and nervously looked between Sam and the raven haired teen. "How do you want him?" he asked lifting a key to the handcuffs.

"Free him" Eddward barked out "I want him to run"

…

Kevin knew his father wouldn't keep his promise of coming back early. Not that he blamed the man really; there was so much work to be done and bills to be paid. He wrapped his blanket tighter on his frame pushing aside his phone with the read message from his father. Eddward's gift sat on the coffee table in front of him. With a frown he slid down a bit…he really had wanted to see the raven haired but if he couldn't then a day or two wouldn't matter.

With a jump he heard a knock at his door and for a second he stayed frozen on the couch. Could it be…? He stood then wincing at the pain and slowly limped over to the door blanket dragging behind him. He held his breathe as he turned the knob of the door hoping to see one particular face.

"Where you looking?" the teasing voice of Nazz called out.

"What?" Kevin looked down meeting the girl's blue eyes. He was expecting see a different shade of blue and at the realization warmth began to spread to his cheeks and ears rapidly.

"Expecting someone else?" the girl continued to tease her arms now crossing as she leaned on one leg.

"N…NO! I-I was just…" the freckled teen let out an embarrassed breath stepping aside letting Nazz walk through.

The girl's jaw dropped as she saw the nest of blankets and pillows on the couch and let out a laugh "Kevin, you're too adorable"

"No I'm not…" he grumbled out pulling the blanket tighter around himself seeking comfort.

"Anyways let's get you ready, Ed and I came to pick you up" she sang placing her bag down and taking off her gloves. She stepped closer to comb the ginger hair with her pale fingers.

"But my dad said I couldn't go out…" he lowered his head just a bit to let the girl play with his hair. "Also, where is Ed?"

"hm? Ed called your dad on our way over, said it was alright so long as we got a car to drive you." Nazz grabbed at his blanket and pulled it off and folding it "So he went to get his grandma's car. I don't even know why she has it, it's not like she can drive it" she giggled. "So. Let's. Get. You. Presentable"

Kevin blush returned and he gave the girl a small smile "you guys are the best you know that right?"

"Of course I know" Nazz flipped her hair and laughed heading over to the couch and beginning to fold the rest of the blankets "I'm going to go up to your room and search for some clothes for you to change into alright?"

"What I'm wearing is fine Nazz" Kevin sighed placing the pillows back to their spot.

With a shake of her head "Unacceptable. Nope. I'll be right back" she rushed upstairs before the freckled boy could argue further.

Nazz opened the boy's room to find it very messy and instinctually she wanted to at least pick up some of the things left on the floor. She gathered up what seemed to be dirty clothes and shoved them into his dirty laundry…which was half full already. She would need to come back and help the Barr men with house some serious house cleaning.

After that she walked over to his desk to find paper from his sketch book all over. She smiled looking over all his robotic designs, he had doodled what seemed to be a sleeve that allowed a nonfunctional arm to function, with limitations, normally. She stacked all the papers and opened his sketchbook flipping through it and as the paper quickly turned she caught a glimpse of a familiar portrait. She gently placed the stack of papers on the desk and picked up the book flipping through the pages trying to find the portrait. She knew Kevin loved to draw out designs, but she rarely saw him attempting to draw anything else and as she flipped through she noticed her Kevin had a wondrous talent for drawings in general. He had drawn the kitchen downstairs, some flowers writing descriptions on the side, and what seemed to be Tom Barr fishing by a lake. Her hands paused as she stared down at the portrait she seemed to have been searching for.

She felt a sense of happiness as she looked over the rendered sketch, perfectly wavy locks peeking through the black beanie. It was a sketch of Eddward Vincent looking down in focus, she wondered if this was done during school hours. She doubted the teen would willingly model for the ginger haired boy, well…who knows but the expression on the teens face definitely gave her the impression the athlete had not idea about the existence of this drawing. She felt some tears beginning to build up at the corners of her eyes and she wiped them away. She wondered if Kevin was fully aware of his feelings for the teen at this point. Damn Vincent better make some progress soon or she would personally force him to.

With a smile she put the stack of paper in the sketchbook and headed over to the boy's closet to find the best outfit she could find. Vincent better he happy after this she huffed out placing her hands on her hips and looking at the boy's limited clothing. Half was oversized sweaters and the other oversized shirts and jackets that had belonged to Tom.

After much hunting through the teen's closet she found the perfect outfits and rushed downstairs with the clothes in her arms "Alright!" she called out feeling giddy and excited.

"What were you doing up there?" Kevin turned with a frown looking at the clothes in her arms. "I forgot I had that coat"

"Yeah and these shoes! Leather shoes Kevin!" Nazz lifted the caramel colored shoes in front of his face "I can't believe you've never worn these!"

"I like comfort" he mumbled out "why didn't you just get me a sweater?"

"NO! Kevin, if you've forgotten those sweaters were to hide your bruises and what not. Ok well maybe you're covered in bruises right now, but my point is you're looking better than ever…figure wise" she winked placing the clothing down on the couch "Gotta make birthday boy happy"

"N-NAZZ!" Kevin jolted away blushing furiously and letting out a yelp of pain from the sudden movement.

"Come on, let's get you dressed silly" she giggled out pulling at the current sweatshirt the distressed freckled boy was wearing.

"I c-can dress myself Nazz!" Kevin leaned away embarrassed once more.

"Half your body is swollen and in pain idiot let me help! Nothing I haven't seen before" she shook her head annoyed as the boy finally gave up letting the girl do as she pleased.

As she helped him get into a pine colored long sleeved shirt that perfectly hanged loosely from his body they heard a car park in the Barr's front yard. Nazz went to open the door letting the brunette in and looking into the living room catching the freckled boy attempting to put on his boot once more.

The taller teen gave a whistle as he walked closer to the freckled teen "Dressed up for a simple hang out, aren't we?"

"T-This was N-Nazz's doing!" Kevin yelped out red faced yet again "W-What's up you the both of you teasing me" he groaned out annoyed.

Nazz returned to help the boy tie his shoelace on his 'good' foot. "Ok, we're ready right?" she looked up at Kevin with a questioning look to which he nodded standing up putting up his coat and grabbing Eddward's present. Nazz grabbed a beanie and placed it on Kevin giving him a pat on his shoulders once she finished marveling her work. "Perfect"

"By the way it started snowing outside" Ed announced walking into the kitchen to turn off the house heater.

"What!" Nazz and Kevin excitedly called out. Nazz ran to the window and gasped in joy "He's right!"

Kevin smiled widely, today couldn't get more perfect.

…

By the time Eddward had begun driving back home light snow had begun to fall although very little was actually sticking on the ground, most melted immediately. He'd have to change his tires soon enough for the winter weather. He had taken off his beanie, scarf and coat in the car still much too hot from the physical exertion. He had wiped most of the blood off himself but there were still small spots on his shirt and jeans and on his knuckles. Hopefully they weren't there yet and he could quickly change before they noticed.

He hadn't realized how much time had passed since he had arrived at the factory and honestly he go have gone for another two hours but that would have surely killed the beaten up teen. He would punch his punching bag later tonight after the three had left; he still had so much fury pent up from all the things.

He pulled up to recognizing the old car the belonged to Ed's grandma. He pulled into his garage and took a moment to redo his messy hair and pull the clothing back on. A part of him was dying to see the freckled teen, yet another part of him didn't want to see anyone, didn't want to face Kevin either. He looked over at the punching bag that seemed much more comforting to him at the moment. His muscles were still so tense, and his mind still not tranquil enough for him to be social, even if it was just the four of them.

Finally he got out of the quiet car and made his way to the door pressing a button on a remote to close the garage then walking into the house. He smelled something was cooking as soon as he opened the door and loud chattered among the three. He slowly walked into the kitchen seeing Nazz stirring at a pan and Ed hugging Kevin from behind as they stood eagerly looking over the girls shoulder.

Ed was the first to spot him and he smiled widely "Double D!" he called out making the other two turn to him.

"Welcome back, hope you don't mind me using your kitchen" Nazz lightly waved the spoon she had in hand.

"H-hey" Kevin awkwardly called out. It was then that Ed finally unwrapped his arms from the boy revealing a nicely dressed Kevin. Eddward was used to seeing the small teen in bangy clothing but this outfit he had on was very fitted to his frame and even though his arm and leg were somewhat swollen that didn't distract from how nicely the loose shirt hugged his chest and waist and…

"…ward?" the raven haired teen looked up now noticing the ginger teen only four feet away from him. He looked behind Kevin noticing Nazz's head turned all the way unable to read her expression and Ed hiding his smile and giggles with a hand. He felt a warmth creep up his face realizing he had spaced out. "Hey…is everything alright?" Kevin's quiet voice pulled his attention back. He nodded trying to force himself to ignore the other two. "W-well I um…H-happy birthday…" he pulled out a small white box sealed with red tape from behind him.

Eddward stared down at the box in front of him and slowly reached for it. For some reason he was beyond nervous to open this small thing. He looked up at Kevin and the boy gave him an encouraging look as he smiled. So he carefully undid the red tape and opened the top of the box to reveal a vintage looking watch with a beautiful black leather strap. He picked it up examining the watch. It had a silver lug and the back it had what appeared to be an engraving. Upon lifting it closer he saw his name and birth day written in cursive. "Kevin made it himself" Ed called out with a smile on his face. Eddward then looked to the ginger teen whose ears were bright red, he wouldn't doubt if his own matched as well.

"You did?" He questioned the boy regardless of the clear answer on his face.

Kevin nodded looking shy about it "e-except the en-engraving of course...I...don't have to tools for it...or the handwriting" he mumbled out lifting a hand to scratch the top of his head.

Without hesitation he placed the box in his coat and began to put on the watch. Kevin's freckled hand reached out to help lightly holding onto one of the straps. Eddward breathed in and held it for a moment before continuing. "Thank you…" he didn't look at the teen's olive eyes knowing he wouldn't be able to resist blushing once more.

However, Kevin's hand remained on his wrist and it was then he finally dared to look at the boy. Kevin was staring right at his hand and he followed his stare…there was a smudge of blood on just barely peeking out through the sleeve of his coat. "Are you hurt?" Kevin looked up concerned and instantly pulled up the sleeve looking for a wound.

He grabbed at the frantic freckled hand "I'm alright Kevin…"

"B-but that was blood right?" Kevin's worried face did a lot of things to the raven haired boy at this point he didn't know what to do. So many emotions mixed together he felt nauseous.

"…it's not mine" he spoke out with a frown "thanks for the gift I'm going to go change" he walked out of the kitchen leaving behind a troubled Kevin. Ed and Nazz just looked at one another rather curious.

Ed walked to Kevin placing a hand on his shoulder "Don't worry too much about it. It's probably Sam's fault."

When Eddward had returned from showering and in clean clothes, Nazz had finished with dinner. Only then did he notice the decorations they had all placed around the kitchen. There were shark cutouts all around one with a beanie similar to his own. A handful of balloons tied to a chair on the table to which he was physically forced by Ed to sit at making Kevin burst out laughing. Nazz had made a soup that made everyone very happy because it complimented the season very nicely. After they had finished eating Ed brought over two things, a small bag being Eddward's gift and a deck of cards against humanity. He had eagerly made the athlete open it.

Eddward found a very nice wallet and after looking it over he found that in one of the pockets there was a picture stored in. What he found made his red face blush like they hadn't ever been before making the tall brunette boy fall on his chair laughing. Nazz ran to see what the picture was all about and Kevin curiously leaned over but Eddward had shoved the imaged back into sleeve and he immediately shoved it into his back pocket. Damn… Kevin and Nazz pouted looking over to Ed who was crying from laughter.

They spent the rest of the day playing and then switching over to movies in the living room. By the second movie Kevin was fast asleep on one side of Eddward's shoulder and Nazz on the other. He felt guilty moving an inch and had stayed frozen for the longest time. When the movie ended Ed had chuckled out "Time to get these two home. I'll take Kevin home…since we live close. Mind taking Nazz?" he smiled with an apologetic expression.

"…it's fine" Eddward whispered out waiting for Ed to grab Kevin carefully and picking up in his arms. It was then that he finally moved picking up Nazz.

"Are you ok?" Ed whispered out

"I will be" Eddward answered

"Cool..." he smiled looking down at Kevin with a small drool on the corner of his lip. He reached to try and wipe it but Eddward's hand interjected as he cleaned it off instead. Ed chuckled "No need to be jealous"

"I—I'm not" Eddward blushed for the millionth time that day.

"Whatever you say man" Ed laughed turning to grab Kevin's stuff. Ed then said his goodbye and promised to come back over the weekend. He placed Kevin in the passenger seat and closed the door. By this time in the evening, there was a lot more snow on the ground but it had stopped snowing, mostly likely it would melt by morning.

Kevin felt the engine of the car turn on and he lightly fluttered his eyes open only enough to see his hands on his lap. Jealous?

…

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Hope you enjoyed, this chap was over 20,600 words, 43 pages... my gift to you lel

once again i'm so sorry for errors and what not...I'm too tired to properly check but i try my best. I wish i could have someone look this over but i don't want anyone suffering reading so many pages lmao.

PLEASE leave a review about your thoughts, feels, and predictions! They really do help me stay motivated!

Also if you want any updates on the next chapter, or just want to see AWA related art check out my instagram or twitter! Arielagam.