God's in 7th Heaven, All's Right with the World

By Cypher

Chapter Twenty-Six: Romantic Insecurities

"So you'll be there?"

Terry glanced back at the studio, waving at a cameraman who was scowling towards him. "I help you get the ring, I'm Simon's boyfriend, and Lucy was the first Camden to accept us." He crossed his arms and faced Kevin. "I'm not going to miss the single event that she's been waiting all her life to happen. It's all she's been talking about."

Kevin nodded. "Good, good. Listen, um, my mom's gonna be there, and she doesn't know that, well..."

Terry shook his head. "Forget it, Kevin. Simon and I are officially 'out.' If she doesn't know, she'll figure it out soon enough. Besides, I'm not missing a chance to dance with Simon, especially when he's dressed up. I've been wanting to waltz since Halloween."

"Dax! Hurry it up!"

Terry rolled his eyes. "Kevin, I'll be there, I'll be with Simon, and we'll introduce ourselves to your mom if you want. Now, I have to get back to work, otherwise Dean's going to rip out my kidneys." Patting Kevin's shoulder, Terry turned and half jogged back to the photographer.

Kevin sighed and ran a hand through his hair. He was finally getting around to accepting Terry and Simon, and he was about to introduce his mother into the equation. Ben was still wary around the two boys. Though that's probably due to the nightclub thing. Heading for the squad car, he noticed Roxanne watching him. She knew of Terry's homosexuality, but hadn't said much about it, even after he and Simon came out. Wonder what she thinks about them.

"I still say it's a pity either of them are gay." She opened the squad door and got in.

Kevin walked around and sat in the driver's seat. "It's not exactly up to us. And don't tell me you don't like them now."

"No, no, they're nice guys. It's just a pity." Roxanne noticed the time on car clock. "Promenade patrol."

"I know, I know." Kevin turned the car on and drove off.

~*()*~

"Nani?! You want me to come over NOW?!"

Jordon pulled the phone away from his ear. Amber gave him a sympathetic look, though he could tell she wanted to laugh at the expression on his face. "Well, there's a festival going on, and school's closed. I get days off, and Amber would love to see you again."

"Aniki, Lucy is being proposed to TOMORROW and you want me to leave NOW? Do you know what she'd do to me?"

"Well, maybe not right NOW, but...well, what about the day after Valentine's day?" Jordon blinked. "She's being proposed to on Valentine's day? Kevin's nuts. She'll expect something completely extravagant every year for the rest of their lives."

"Weren't you going to propose to Sakura on Valentine's...sorry."

Jordon's shoulders slumped. He was pretty over Sakura, but it still hit home. He saw her the other day at a market, and had to run outside to try not to throw up (much to Amber's annoyance). He couldn't even face her. Maybe I'm a coward...

Amber grabbed the phone from his hand. "Teeerrrrrryyy. If you don't come out, we'll come visit you."

"And the down side would be?"

"Remember the last time I came by to visit after being gone a few months?" She knew he did. The party had lasted till morning, with the neighbors calling the cops (who Amber got drunk, somehow). Terry had gotten a lot of flack from his mother, and his brother, for that.

She heard him sigh over the phone. "Alright, Amber. I'll come after Valentine's day. After."

"Good boy. See you then!" She hung up and tossed the phone back at Jordon. "You just have to know what buttons to push."

Jordon grunted an affirmative, popping a piece of sushi into his mouth.

~*()*~

"You know, coming over tonight is kinda suspicious." Simon rubbed his arm and glanced out his door, making sure Lucy wasn't nearby.

Terry was sitting on Simon's bed, a planning calendar open before him and a pencil in his hand. "I already made the plane reservations, but I can't change everything else just like that. I can move some things, otherwise I need your help."

Deciding Lucy wasn't going to show up, Simon shut his door and crossed over the room, lying down next to Terry, and eyed the paper. "What's this?" He pointed to two weeks in April that had 'L.A. Shoot' with arrows covering all the days. "L.A. shoot?"

"I, ah," Terry sighed, "I meant to tell you after Valentine's day, but I'm gonna be gone for about two weeks, though I'm gonna try and narrow it to ten days, for a special photo shoot in Los Angeles."

Simon frowned. "You're going away again?"

"I already got permission from my teachers, and it's all set. Every model has to do it every two years, and since I didn't go last year..." Terry stroked the curve of Simon's back.

Simon, though his hormones were more under control than earlier that year, had a few images run through his head as Terry's fingers moved along his shirt. I wonder what it'd feel like if he did that on my bare back. He had a feeling it'd be pretty nice, and made a mental note to ask him to do that the next time he slept over. "You have to go this year." He was rather proud that he kept his voice steady. The thought of Terry leaving for two weeks helped calm him from the more intimate images in his head.

Terry nodded and pulled his hand away, rubbing his chin. "I can't get out of that one. Not unless I have a debilitating disease or a death in the family." He crossed out a meeting in the calendar. "Be sure to remind my financial advisor that I'll be gone when you see him Monday."

Simon grinned at that slightly. Working on Terry's portfolio was more fun than he had thought, and through the broker, Simon had made a few new contacts who wanted him to review accounts or work with their stocks. Sometimes having Annie Camden as a mother is helpful She's a great reference. The fact that he was gay didn't even register with the people he was working with.

Of course, there was a downside. This Monday, along with his paycheck, he was going to start working with a new client. Someone who worked in janitorial services. He got the job through Cecilia. She was annoying, and still shot Terry poison glares, but she suspected something funny going on with the accounting of her father's work. So, she had asked, and since it was working with money, he agreed. At least I'll get paid for it.

"And can you handle the fashion show rehearsal this week? The teacher knows I'll be gone and is covering all but Thursday. Since we're so close to show time, we can't just drop a rehearsal, so-"

"Terry, it's fine. I've watched you during rehearsals. I think I can handle it." Simon rubbed his head. "What about your test Wednesday? Don't you have that Calculus chapter test?"

"I think I can miss one test. I haven't missed one yet." Terry shrugged and crossed out the test in his calendar. "I think all that leaves is work."

"Should I substitute for you?" Simon grinned.

"Hmm...tempting," Terry leaned down and kissed Simon briefly, "but no. I'll just call and cancel. So I lose a week of work." He shrugged. "Won't kill me."

Simon sat up so he was sitting next to Terry. "So is that all the issues we need to discuss."

"I believe so." Terry closed his planner and tossed the pencil back onto Simon's desk. "So what do you wanna do now?"

Simon simply closed the distance between them and kissed him again, wrapping his arms around his boyfriend. If you're gonna be gone, we have to make up for the time we're not going to have.

~*()*~

"Wow. No wonder Simon likes you so much."

Terry simply shook his head. He hadn't worn a tux in a while, but he was pleased that he hadn't outgrown it. I think I lost the baby fat, that's why the arms feel more roomy. "Thanks, Ruthie, I think." He squatted and straightened the coat on David. "You look nice too." He stood back up and ran a hand through his hair. He had gotten a hair cut that morning, shortening it slightly. Hope Simon likes it. "Oh, Simon said we should be over in the next five minutes. Let's get going."

"Right. Come on you two." Ruthie took her brothers' hands and lead them outside.

Peter Petrowski, Ruthie's new 'boyfriend', made to follow, but Terry grabbed his shoulder. "One moment."

Unlike Ruthie, Peter hadn't yet become comfortable with the idea of Terry being gay. He shook the hand off, but looked up at the teen. "Yeah?"

Terry eyed the boy, then crossed his arms. "Slow down."

Peter's brow furrowed. Slow down? What's he mean?

Terry picked up on his confusion. "With Ruthie. I don't mind her dating, but you're moving way too fast."

Peter snorted. "And you would know?"

"More than you." Terry headed for the door. "And don't call her 'honey.' What seventh grader calls someone 'honey'? It just sounds weird."

Peter opened his mouth to respond, but Terry had already started towards the Camden house. Damn, who's he to tell me what to do? Especially since he's gay. He doesn't know anything about dating.

Terry made a mental note to keep an eye on the Petrowski kid. He was okay, but he was getting too close to Ruthie too fast. Look at me. I sound as bad as Matt was with Simon. On the other hand, 'honey'? That's just wrong. Putting on a smile, he planted a quick kiss on Simon's cheek as he arrived. "Ready to go?"

"Just a minute." Simon hurried to the fridge, not noticing the twins following him, and pulled out a simple lapel rose. He blushed slightly, but went back and held it out. "It's not a dozen, but I made it. Happy Valentine's day?"

Terry chuckled and took it, putting it in his jacket, and noting that it matched one Simon was wearing. So everyone knows we're together. Rather than the traditional red, both of them had white roses. "You made it yourself?"

"Well, I got a few pointers from mom." Simon glanced around the room, noticing that Happy had left him. Probably napping. I'll play with you a little when we get back. Due to the twins' birthday, Valentine's day, and Kevin's surprise, he had failed to pay much attention to his pet. "So, we ready to go?"

Terry nodded, and headed for the car. They had opted for his car, in the hopes that Lucy wouldn't recognize it if she got too close to the parking lot.

Simon herded the shorter people out, grinning as he noticed the twins had given Ruthie two corsages. Cute, guys. Terry said you could have your gift when you got back. That should make any boredom you have tonight worthwhile.

With that, Simon locked and shut the door.

~*()*~

"He really went all out." Terry watched Bobby Short at the piano. He had already taken Simon once around the floor, surprised Kevin's mother, and now he and his boyfriend were taking a time out, resting for a bit.

"Yeah." Simon pushed the remains of his food around his plate.

"Something wrong?"

Simon bit his lip. Other than you going away after the most romantic day of the year and we're not celebrating our love alone tonight, nothing. He knew it was a selfish thought, and he was happy for Lucy, but he was hoping for a nice, quiet evening at Terry's house. He wasn't about to spoil the mood, though. "Just thinking about how your stocks in the meat market are starting to decline."

Terry laughed and patted Simon's arm. "You and money. I shoulda let you at my stocks months ago."

Simon smiled a little at that. And he hadn't told Terry a lie. It just wasn't the whole truth.

"You mind if I dance with the woman of the night?"

Simon glanced at Lucy, who was chatting with Mrs. Kinkirk. "Naw. She probably needs to be rescued."

"Thanks. I'll save the next slow one for you." Terry stood and headed over to the two women.

Simon set his fork down picked up his drink. Well, at least we get some time together before leaves. And the dancing isn't bad, though I did step on his feet a couple times...

Meanwhile, Terry cleared his throat behind Lucy. "Mind if I cut in?"

Lucy smiled at her future mother-in-law and set her drink down. "Not at all." She took Terry's hand and shuffled over to the dance floor. "Thanks for being here. Can you believe all he's done?"

Terry simply started dancing. "Pretty impressive." He twirled her around before continuing. "So, Lucy Camden, you've just been proposed to by the man of your dreams. What are you going to do now?"

"Hmm. That's a tough question." Lucy's grin was still in place. "Well, get my brother's boyfriend to cheer him up."

Terry blinked and glanced over at the table he and Simon were at, noticing how downcast the blond teen was. "Damn. He's really upset I'm leaving."

"You're leaving?" Lucy stopped dancing. "As in forever?"

"What? No!" Terry shook his head. "I'm going to visit my brother tomorrow. And then a couple weeks later I have to leave again for work."

Lucy started dancing again, slowly. "I thought you meant leaving him, or going away to college."

"That's not something I'd tell him today." Terry's eyes narrowed for a few minutes. "I'd better give him a delayed Valentine's gift. Something to remind him how much I love him."

"Didn't you two make out like mad last night?"

"Making out does not necessarily transmit love. Kissing can be used for multiple meanings. No, I need to get him something special." Terry stopped dancing, crossing his arms. "I'm...gonna cut this dance short to be with him. You mind?"

"Not at all." Lucy started looking around for her fiancé.

"He is happy for you, Luce. We both are."

"I know. When you two finally tie the knot, Kevin and I will be just as happy."

Terry snorted. "If we can ever tie the knot." He strolled back over and took his seat again, leaving Lucy to find Kevin. "Hey. Come on, I won't be gone that long."

Simon blinked. "I didn't-"

"Simon, I love you. You really think I don't see how down you are?" I would've eventually noticed without Lucy...but no need to mention Lucy sped the process along. "Come on." He stood up.

Simon tilted his head. "Where-"

Terry grabbed his arm and hauled him up. "Come on." He led Simon out of the room towards another ballroom, one that was empty. Terry shut the door behind them and took a seat on the steps.

Simon sat down next to him, looking around the place. "Why'd you bring me here?"

"So we could talk in peace." Terry folded his hands before him and stared out the window. "Why is this so upsetting to you?"

"It's not so much upsetting as...as..." Simon rested back on his elbows. "You said this year would be about us, but here you are leaving, while I'm stuck here."

"Is here so bad?"

"Not when you're here. Terry, do you know that I'm going away to college? There's no way I'm sticking around like Matt or Lucy. I'm leaving, I've got to get out of here." Simon looked at the floor. "Just like you are."

Terry's head snapped to face his lover. "Is that what this is about? You're afraid that I'm leaving at the end of the semester?"

Simon nodded again. "That means we have little time, and...and I want to spend it with you, only I've just got three weeks less." He sniffed. Don't cry, not today. Lucy would be worried and it'd ruin her night.

Terry leaned over and kissed Simon, slowly, reassuringly. He reached up and wiped away a tear from Simon's cheek, and his other arm wrapped around Simon's waist. He waited until he felt Simon relax in his grip before pulling away. "I love you Simon, and nothing's going to tear me away from you. If I go away to college, I'll be back every chance I can. I'll e-mail, I'll write, I'll phone. I won't forget you, and I won't let you feel abandoned." He stroked Simon's hair, keeping his golden eyes locked with Simon's watery blue ones. "But that's an if, Simon. Don't worry about ifs. Don't think about it, don't ponder the worst case scenarios, just don't. I. Love. You. And no matter how many times I go, I'll always return to you, for you."

Simon licked his lips, managing a simple whisper for fear of his voice cracking. "O-okay." He was glad that he didn't feel like crying any more, except from elation, and Lucy would understand that. He held them back, though. "I love you too. I'm sorry...I just..."

Terry simply held Simon closer, kissing him again. "I know. We just have to make sure our time together counts each and every time."

Simon nodded, resting his head on Terry's shoulder. He remained silent for a while, just soaking in the warmth and comfort of his boyfriend. "Why do you love me?"

Terry's eyebrows raised, but he didn't make any other moves. "You're smart. Kind, gentle, generous. You know what you want in your life, who you want to be with, where you want to go." He squeezed Simon briefly. "You're also very nice to cuddle with, cute, a great kisser, and warm in bed."

Simon felt his ears turn a bit red, but he didn't get as embarrassed as he used to. He says it all the time. I just...don't really listen. He rubbed Terry's wrist slowly. "You're confident and strong. You're not afraid to speak your mind, but you can do it tactfully. You're protective, loving, and wise." Simon shifted his legs to keep them from falling asleep. "You're also understanding, even when others wouldn't be." He smirked. "You've also got a great body and the softest lips I've ever placed mine on."

Terry chuckled.

The two remained there for a few more minutes, then Terry broke the silence. "We should get back. We've got to bring the twins home, after all."

"Yeah, I know." Simon sighed and sat up, wiping his face to make sure all the tear stains were gone. "I'm curious to see what's going at the party, anyway."

~*()*~

David, wearing his pajamas, looked up expectantly at Terry. "So what'd you get us?"

"Yeah, what'd you get us?" Sam, wearing an identical outfit, glanced around the room.

Simon crossed his arms and leaned on the door frame. Terry had taken him and the younger guests at Kevin's proposal home. Ruthie was hanging out with Peter. I agree with Terry. He rubs me the wrong way. He's too...familiar with her.

Terry chuckled and popped into Simon's adjoining room, coming back with a box wrapped in metallic blue paper. "Now, this is from Jordon and myself." He set the box down between the brothers and backed up, resting against the wall next to Simon. "Simon'll help you set it up tomorrow."

Simon raised his eyebrow. "Me?"

Terry winked at the blond. "You'll see."

Simon shrugged and looked back to his siblings, watching them tear the paper away with little grace. Both his eyebrows raised as he caught the words 'planet' and 'stars' on the side of the box. What is that?

The twins, having pushed the paper away, clearly had the same question as they looked up at Terry for an explanation.

"It's an at-home planetarium. You put it together, plug it in, and it's ready to go." Terry bent down and picked up the used paper.

Simon shook his head and clapped his hands. "Alright you two, time for bed." He helped the twins into their beds and tucked them in. He met Terry at the door and turned out the light. "Night, guys."

"Night, Simon."

Terry chuckled as Simon closed the door. "Whenever they talk together I'm reminded of the children of the corn." He headed for the stairs, one hand holding the shiny paper from the gift.

Simon followed him. "Isn't that a little old for them?"

"Naw. I was fascinated with Jordon's when I was, oh, I was younger than them."

"I'm guessing it was Jordon's idea."

"Pretty much. But it's more fun than you'd think." Terry tossed the trash into the can under the sink. He smiled when Simon's arms slipped around his waist and he felt his boyfriend rest his head against his shoulder.

"I'm gonna miss you." Simon closed his eyes, just enjoying the feel of holding Terry. He liked to do this when he slept over at Terry's; to just pull him close and feel his warmth. It always gave him a sense of comfort. And I'm going to miss three weeks of it. At least they're not all at once.

Terry turned around and wrapped his arms around Simon's chest, holding his boyfriend. "I'll be back before you know it." He kissed Simon's forehead. "You won't even notice I'm gone."

I doubt that. Simon simply offered Terry a soft smile. Terry had reassured most of his fears, but he knew that no matter how much they talked, he would miss the physical interaction. Especially when they shared a bed. His hold tightened around Terry's waist. One day, when I can get out of this city, away from this family, I'm going to be with Terry, and never let him go. Ever.

~*()*~

Simon tapped his pencil against his binder, zoning out the teacher at the front of the room. Terry had been gone three days, and had only managed to call once (from a phone booth, from the sounds in the background). He had told Simon that he'd be a bit busy to call, but he'd keep trying. Unfortunately, Simon wanted to talk with him now. Actually, he needed to talk to someone, anyone. And no one really had time for him.

Kevin was busy with work and keeping Lucy calm. Lucy was going nuts planning the wedding, with Mom looming over her plans. Dad, well, Dad was still out of the loop on so many levels. And he still refused to listen to other people's problems, even if the other people just wanted to talk. Ruthie was dealing with something or other, and didn't want to talk with anyone. He even couldn't call Matt, because he was too busy with his intern work and school.

He bit his lip, glancing at the clock. Another forty minutes. I'm going to go nuts. Simon rubbed his head, closing his eyes for a few moments. Maybe I should try doing what Lucy does. Everyone teased Lucy about her journal. Even Simon thought it was amusing, until Terry said it wasn't that funny.

"Journals are a person, a sounding board, with things that could never be said to another person. Sometimes journals help people get through troubled times, and sometimes they're used to keep thoughts and feelings that couldn't be expressed except in writing."

After that, Simon had apologized to Lucy and told Ben and Kevin to back off. They didn't understand, but for a time Lucy was his journal, someone he could tell his feelings and secrets to, without fear of someone else knowing of them. Lucy deserved her own private place, and if they ever violated it again, he would make them sorry. Ben had laughed at that, but Kevin stared, hard, trying to read me. In the end he told his brother to shut up. He knew I was serious, and that this was an important issue.

No time like the present to try. Pulling out a sheet of binder paper, Simon started writing.

~*()*~

"A journal?" Lucy raised an eyebrow. "You're writing in a journal?"

Had it been anyone else, Simon knew he would've blushed. Since it was Lucy, though, he simply closed the book and shrugged. "Well, everyone else was busy, and since Terry can't talk with me right now, I thought I'd give it a shot."

Lucy took a seat on the desk chair. "And?"

"I think it'll be helpful when Terry's away." Simon rubbed his arm and sat up on his bed.

Lucy sighed. Simon hadn't said it, but she knew Simon meant more than just the two weeks Terry spending in Los Angeles. "I'm sorry I haven't been there for you. It's just...planning this wedding." She grumbled.

"Why don't you ask Kevin for help?"

"It's not his job." Lucy shook her head. Perhaps it's a Catholic thing. She doubted it, but there wasn't much she could do about it. I should have another talk with him.

Simon frowned, but remained silent. He wanted to know why Kevin was refusing to help, but it wasn't his wedding, and he wasn't as nosy as Ruthie. He'd wait until Ruthie heard something. He decided to change the subject, help Lucy get her mind off the planning. "So, watcha need?"

Lucy pushed aside her thoughts about Kevin and sat back, folding her hands together. "I'm taking a break, and I realized I hadn't talked with you in a while. So I thought I'd see how you were doing without Terry." She nodded towards the journal. "Anything in there you want to talk about?"

Simon tilted his head, thinking a moment. "Well, there's something not quite right with the numbers on my latest job. I think Cecilia was right about her father's company, though I'll have to check a few more details before I can give an accurate report." He couldn't give up too many details, but there was something fishy going on. The expenditures of the clients for the company matched what was recorded in the books, but the bank statements and deposits failed to match up with either of the other numbers. So either there was a massive accounting error on the bank's part, or someone was stealing from the company. And it's been going on for years, years!

"That's it?"

Simon blinked. Right. Lucy. "Um, no." He thought a moment. "School's okay. Nothing much going on there. The main thing is I miss Terry." His shoulders slumped. "I mean, it's only a week, but I'm missing him."

"Because he could be going away at the end of the semester, so any time you don't have him around is raising your anxiety." Lucy crossed her arms. She may not be an expert on homosexuality, but she was pretty knowledgeable about relationships. "You're afraid of losing him. And every time he goes away, you feel you're going to lose him for good."

Simon sighed through his nose. "Way to make me feel better."

"But it's true, isn't it?"

Simon searched his thoughts, and nodded slowly. "Yeah. He says he'll keep in touch, but considering how long-distance relationships work out in this family, I don't have much faith."

"You should. This is Terry. He's done a lot for you, and I doubt he'll let your relationship just fail. He loves you a lot."

Simon pulled his pillow up and hugged it, resting his chin on its top. "I love him too. I love him more than I've ever loved anyone else."

Lucy nodded. "He probably feels the same way. Trust in that feeling. It'll help you."

Simon closed his eyes. "Thanks."

"No problem." Lucy glanced at her watch. "It's about dinner time." She stood up. "You coming?"

"I'll be down in a few minutes."

"Alright." Lucy left Simon's room.

Simon looked at his journal, staring at the cover. Then he set the book in his desk and locked the drawer before heading down to eat as well.

~*()*~

"So, Terry, what'd you think of the rehearsal?"

Terry shrugged, untwisting his arms. Visiting his brother had gotten him re-interested in Yoga. Need to keep flexible, after all. "It looked fine. Keep in mind my family has a tendency to...just marry."

Simon pulled Terry's arms apart and grasped one of his hands. "In other words, they elope."

"I don't really get the big ceremony. If you're in love and want to be married, then do it. You want a big ceremony, do you really need a rehearsal? You only need to memorize your vows." Terry smiled at Simon. He had to leave immediately afterwards for the L.A. shoot, but he was going to be here for the wedding. They'd made up for lost time in the past month, hanging out, making out, going to movies, dinners, and generally spending time with one another.

Simon squeezed the hand he was holding.

Lucy, picking up the tail end of the conversation, rested against a pew. "You have to remember you also come from a small family. For us, a wedding can't be simple because there's so many people showing up."

"Point taken. But I'm sure it'll be fine, Lucy. After all, how can a wedding go bad? Unless you're Mrs. Robinson." Terry took in the blank looks from the two Camdens. "Okay, I guess neither of you have ever seen 'The Graduate.'"

"No. Why?" Simon had seen the cover for that tape once or twice. His parents had watched it every now and then.

Terry coughed. "We'll rent it next time you spend the night at my place."

Lucy made a mental note to ask Kevin about it.

Simon ran his free hand through his hair. "So what was Gabrielle doing here?"

Terry furrowed his brow a moment. Ah, the Colonel's maid...or something. "She's here?"

Lucy nodded. "We're all hoping it's not a bad omen."

Terry decided to keep quiet on that comment. "Any who, I want to get home before the storm gets any worse." He kissed Simon on the cheek. "See you tomorrow." He felt Simon release his hand and he hurried into the rain towards his car.

This was hardly a horrible storm, or deadly, but compared to some previous years, it was bad enough that Terry didn't want to risk riding his motorcycle in it. Simon squinted when he saw a car light go on. He made it. "Alright, we're up next. Ready to run?"

Lucy glanced back at the alter, then nodded and put up her umbrella.

~*()*~

Alright, Simon had to admit to himself he was curious. Not so much in what Lucy and Kevin were doing, but in what would happen when either of the to-be-wedded realized that the family was listening in at the door. He also felt a bit ashamed. Here he was, soon to be seventeen and a graduating boyfriend, listening in with the rest of his family basically for porno. He didn't voice that, though. He didn't wanted to be grounded for the next week or two.

A few minutes later, Lucy came out and shooed us away. Simon ended up in his dad's bed, how or why, he wasn't sure. He noted that his father didn't even get tense or give him an odd look. He's really comfortable with my sexuality, as long as I don't have sex. Simon felt, more than saw, the twins join them on the bed a few minutes later. They never cared I was gay, and dad's not afraid I'm going to 'turn them' gay. Even now, after all this time, small things like these reminded Simon he was really a lucky teen because his family was so understanding.

Something else was nagging him in the back of his mind, though. Something regarding his father. He's going back to the church tomorrow, but...why? "Dad?"

Eric looked up from his twins and met his son's face. "Yeah?"

"I know you're going back to the church tomorrow, but" Simon's eyes moved back and forth, "but if you're going back for the wrong reasons, you shouldn't."

"The wrong reasons?" Eric propped his head up on his arm.

"If you're going back for Lucy, then don't go back. But if you're going back because...because you know it's your calling, then I don't have a problem." Simon rubbed his eye with a fist. "If you are just going back for Lucy, though, I...I won't be able to consider you an, well, I won't be able to respect you." He licked his lips. "It's not that I'll lose my religion. But I will lose my faith in you."

Eric sighed. It was an issue he had been wrestling with himself. Was he going back because he knew he belonged at the church? Or was he going back to make Lucy happy. Six to one, half dozen to the other. And when he was honest with himself, Eric did like helping people, helping them get past their problems and realizing the right thing to do. He might not have the energy he used to, but he could pass on his knowledge, his talents, to Chandler and Lucy. No, he wasn't going back just for Lucy. He did want to rejoin the church.

"Dad?"

"Don't worry, Simon. I'm going back for myself as well as Lucy. I want to be back."

Simon nodded. "Alright." He put his head down, closing his eyes. "Goodnight, dad."

"Night, son." Eric watched his middle son fall asleep, before surrendering to sleep himself.

~*()*~

"Dragon Slave!"

Kevin raised his eyebrow as the animated heroine blasted a dragon. "And your parents let you watch this?"

"Well, at home we don't even get the International Channel." Simon shifted in his seat. "But Terry and I watch a lot of things we can't at my house. He recently introduced me to something called Farscape. It's pretty cool." He and Kevin had come over to Terry's house immediately after breakfast, to ensure the bride and groom didn't see each other. That, and Simon refused to watch old 'Raggedy Ann and Andy' cartoons.

"And your parents don't mind?"

Terry, coming out of the bathroom with a towel around his waist, simply rolled his eyes. "Stop being a big brother and take your shower. Simon's nearly an adult, and this stuff is nothing compared to what my brother likes."

Simon blushed slightly. He had noticed that Jordon had taken most of the pornographic anime, as well as a few others movies he didn't recognize. He was also blushing at Terry's body. He may have had his hormones under control most of the time now, but every now and then Terry did something and he just couldn't control himself, or his body. Think of something uninteresting. You don't want Kevin seeing that.

Kevin, though, got up and went into the bathroom, not looking back at the blond Camden. "I'll be out in a few."

Terry waited for the door to close before grinning at Simon and heading for his room.

Simon groaned and knocked his head against the wall behind him. He really didn't need this. Not right before Terry was leaving again. Food. Think of food. Yeah, something cold, like milk, or ice cream... That was calming him down, until he thought of ice cream on Terry. Maybe I'm thinking like this because I'm nervous about the wedding. My mind's trying to take my mind off of it. And it was working. Sort of...

~*()*~

"Well, if that wasn't a Las Vegas wedding, I don't know what is."

Simon tried not to snort into his drink. He agreed with Terry, that the wedding could've gone a whole lot better, but that it wasn't bad. They were currently at the reception, standing off in a corner. Simon had broke his no alcohol rule and shared some champagne with Terry. A very little amount, barely a quarter of a glass, but still some. His parents hadn't seemed to mind, probably because Terry drank as well, and it was Japanese custom. Granted, this isn't sake.

Actually, considering how some people had shown up, Simon was surprised more people weren't drinking. Ben was covered in mud, as was Ms. Kinkirk, Chandler, and Roxanne. Those four, plus Matt and Mary had come completely unprepared for this, dressed in common clothes. Simon got bumped up to Best Man because of that. And of course, when the entire Camden clan had burst out they were giving away the bride, no one had bothered to hide their laughter. Even Terry.

"You look gorgeous, by the way. Have I told you that?" Terry nuzzled Simon's cheek. He wasn't too intoxicated, but the bit of champagne he'd had was affecting him more than he expected. Guess I should've expected that. I'm used to sake. This is...more powerful.

Simon grinned and wrapped an arm around Terry's shoulders. "A few times. You look nice too."

Terry set his glass down and nodded towards the dance floor. "Want to go around again?"

Simon looked out there, seeing who was present. His parents had retired to their table, chatting with Lucy and Kevin. Mary was dancing with Ben, surprise, surprise. Matt was sitting at a table, alone at the moment. I haven't had a chance to talk with him lately. "Maybe later. I'm gonna talk with my brother."

"Okay." Terry pulled away from Simon. "Looks like Ruthie needs rescuing from the twins anyway."

Simon searched the floor and found his youngest siblings hoarding his little sister. Figures. "I knew we shouldn't have let them have some cake."

"Hey, you're only young once. I'll take them out and wind them down a bit." Terry headed onto the dance floor, where Ruthie was searching for someone, anyone to take her burdens.

Simon shook his head and went over to his brother, sitting in the chair next to him. "Hey."

"Hey." Matt scowled momentarily and grabbed Simon's glass. "Are you-"

"Don't, Matt. Just don't. I'm man enough to handle a little bit of alcohol on a special occasion." This is not how I want to start off. Simon didn't bother to try to get his glass back, though. "And no, neither Terry or I are driving. So don't start with the speeches on drunk driving, either."

Matt opened his mouth, then shut it, eying Simon. He's grown up more than I realized. "I'm still your older brother."

"And we're surrounded by people from the police. If they can look it over, so can you."

Matt looked around the room, spotting Sergeant Michaels and a few others who were friends of Kevin. Alright. I guess I can let it go. This once. "Fine, fine. You win."

Simon crossed his arms and leaned on the table. Good. Maybe I can get him to see me as more of a man than a little brother. "So how're things where you are? I haven't talked with you in a while."

Matt shrugged. "Not bad. Medical school's tough, of course, and my internship is even harder." He thought a moment. "What about you? Last time we talked, you had that...problem."

Simon felt his cheeks turn slightly pink. "I've dealt with it. Terry and I had a bit of a rough patch a month or so ago." He shifted, in his seat. "I'm...worried that at the end of the year, he's going to go away. I...don't want him to. I'm afraid I'm going to lose him."

Matt leaned forward as well, setting his arms before him. "Have you told him?"

Simon nodded. "He said he wouldn't let something like distance keep us apart, but I'm still worried that it will."

Matt's eyes scanned the crowd, landing on his brother's boyfriend just outside the tent, helping wear off the sugar energy from the twins. "He wouldn't hurt you, I don't think. As uncomfortable as I was at first, I know he loves you. Wherever he goes he's going to try and keep you together." He thought a moment. "He might not even leave for college. What if he goes to Crawford?"

Simon tried not to snort. "Terry's worked hard to be ready for college. I doubt he's going to settle for Crawford."

Matt bristled slightly, but Simon did have a point. Crawford didn't stand a chance against places like Harvard or Stanford. Here's hoping Terry picks a place nearby. If he hurts Simon... "Well, until he gets his acceptance letters, I'd suggest you just enjoy the time you have together."

Simon's shoulders slumped. "Yeah. Terry said that too. I'm trying to, but it's still there in the back of my mind."

"This a private party or you got an opening for sandy-haired cutie?"

Simon sat up and smiled. "Hey, Terry. We were just talking about you."

Terry sat down. "Only good things, I hope."

Matt drummed his fingers on the table. "Well, getting my brother to drink..."

Terry rolled his eyes. "Come on, Simon. The twins are stuck on your mom so that we can get in one more dance." He stood back up.

Simon stood and patted Matt's shoulder. "Thanks, Matt. For listening." He went over to Terry and the two headed towards the dancing floor.

Matt watched them a minute, then downed the little bit of liquid remaining in Simon's glass. He's growing up far too fast. I just wish I could be here for him.

~*()*~

Terry left yesterday. He told me he was able to reduce his time away to nine days. Nine long days. And Lucy's on a honeymoon. Well, a long weekend. She'll be back in four days. That's gonna be a bad honeymoon, but Kevin couldn't get more time off and Lucy still has school. That's okay. I'll talk with her when she comes back. I'm sure she'll have something to talk about. As long as it's not about what she and Kevin did on their honeymoon. No one wants to hear about that.

I still feel kinda funny writing in you. It's sorta comforting, and you're a great sounding board...

Simon glanced at the page next to where he was writing, covered in numbers and accounting notations.

Well, good at helping me organize my thoughts. Thanks, by the way. Cecilia's father wasn't happy when I told him he was being scammed. At least he caught the thief. But back to the subject at hand, thanks. I think I'll be using you a lot after Terry's away at college. I am so not looking forward to that.

I know you don't get it, but my family has a history with long-distance relationships, and none of them are good. Matt and Heather, and Shawna, and probably more than that. Mary and Wilson. Lucy and...pick a guy, any guy. Terry and I have something special, but I don't know if it could withstand the Camden Curse. He doesn't understand why I'm worried. I've explained it, but he just doesn't get it.

Simon sighed, tapping his pencil against his bedspread for a few minutes.

I'm just going to have to try really hard to make sure our relationship stands. I'll try my damnedest to get into wherever he's going and I'm never going to leave him. Just one more year and I'm free. I'm getting outta this town and living with Terry. I just have to make sure our relationship lasts that year we're apart.

Huh. Lucy's right. I really do feel better just writing it down. I should've started keeping a journal years ago. It would've helped me during some tough times in my life. I guess I'm growing up.

Matt knocked on the door and stuck his head in. "Hey, you gonna see me off?"

"Yeah, just a minute." Simon closed his journal and moved to the edge of his bed, grabbing his shoes.

Matt stepped into the room and picked up the book. "What're you writing?"

Simon snatched the book back. "A journal, alright? I usually talk with Terry, but I can't, and Lucy's busy, so I thought I'd give it a shot." He set the book on the far end of the bed and went back to tying his shoes.

Matt smirked. "A diary?"

"Journal." Simon finished with his laces and picked up the book again. "Something you can put your thoughts in when they have no where else to go." It was his turn to smirk. "Not that you'd know anything about that, considering how few thoughts go through your head."

Matt lunged forward and trapped his brother in a headlock, giving the blond a noogie. "Oh really? You think so, huh?"

Simon struggled against the hold. I knew he and Jordon talking wasn't a good idea. He had seen Jordon do this a couple times to Terry during their little mock battles. "Alright! Uncle!"

Matt released Simon and laughed. "I'll see you downstairs." He left, still laughing.

Simon growled and straightened his shirt and hair. Jordon's so gonna get it when I see him next. Hiding his journal, he hurried after his brother. Now I understand why Terry had to see Jordon, though. Nothing's quite like spending time with your big brother.

~*()*~

~*()*~

~*()*~

Nani: What

Aniki: Older brother

Author's Prattle: Gomen nasai again for taking so long, as well as writing a chapter of dren. *sighs* I just didn't have much to work with, and I had to get the year to move along, so this chapter had to happen. Not to worry, though. The next few chapters are planned out, completely cannon from the series, and have a bit more fun. I have midterms, but I think I can crank it out in the next couple of weeks. Oh, for those who didn't get the title, it's a reference to all the romantic things going on in Lucy's life and Simon's insecurities.

Other reasons I've slowed down posting chapters (for those of you asking me to post more) is because I've increased my fic output. In addition to this, I'm working on an X-Men Evolution fic, a new Stargate SG-1 fic (finished the first one already), a fic challenge, a co-authored fic, and my Ronin fic (I'm so behind on that it's not funny). Thus, being my most developed fic, this one has been put on the back burner more than the others. If I can get a job where I'm at a desk, I might be able to work more, but no promises.

Disclaimers. I don't own 7th Heaven, its characters or settings. They belong to Aaron Spelling and Brenda Hampton. I do own Terry, Amber, and Jordon. I also don't own Slayers (what Simon and Kevin were watching). That's a highly funny anime (someone joked about one of my other characters being a male Naga. That had me rolling on the ground in laughter) that's great to watch. It's on the International channel, for those who are interested. Slayers belongs to...well, someone, but certainly not me. I also don't own Farscape, that's a SciFi/Jim Henson thing. I also don't own 'The Graduate' or 'Children of the Corn.' They belong someone else.

By the by, I am not condoning underage drinking. As we've seen in other chapters, special occasions allow for slight drinking in Japanese cultures, and since Simon's close to Terry...well, you get the idea. This does not mean you can go and drink alcohol at a wedding, funeral, or even your own home. It is a part of a culture Simon is adopting to become closer to Terry. Also, as Simon said, don't drink and drive (well, duh...but I should put it in anyway).

I believe that's all. Wish me luck on my multiple-essay midterm. As always, hoped you enjoyed, and feedback is appreciated.