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

By Cypher

Chapter Thirty: The Graduation Gift

Simon smiled briefly at the classmates passing him as he rested against his locker. His reintegration into school had gone rather smoothly. His teachers had been very supportive, setting up an academic schedule to make up his missed work. His friends were also there for him, helping him get around when his injuries acted up and defending him when someone tried to pick on him for what happened, for who he was.

I guess the attack was permission for other homophobes to come out of the woodwork. His defenders were putting them back in their place, though, and the school had issued an announcement of zero tolerance of discrimination, including homosexuality. Not quite the effect I wanted to have on the school. He knew it was for the best, though. It would help protect future gays who came out at the school, who wanted to date openly.

It protected him as well, for which he was grateful. Granted, he had to testify at the expulsion hearing and at juvenile court, but after that he just didn't attend them. There was too much emotional torrent around both settings, especially with his attackers so close. Terry, on the other than, had attended each session of both events, and kept him updated about the proceedings.

While it took time, the three jocks had been expelled from the school district for a year, which, as seniors, was a big blow against them. The court hearings were more eventful. Simon's teary testimony and Terry's heated report of the events at the dance had helped sway the jury, but the two people who had held him only got off with simple probation. Terry was peeved at that, but considering the damage his boyfriend had already inflicted upon the two boys, it evened out in Simon's mind. The attacker and 'ringleader,' as the prosecution had put it, landed himself two years in a minimum security facility. Simon had felt a bit guilty at the punishment, but Terry reminded him of the emotional roller coaster the attack had caused.

Leaning his head back, Simon sighed. That was the end of the legal debacle Terry had asked if he wanted to pursue civil suits, but Simon told him he didn't want to, he just wanted to let it go. Doctor Gibson was as surprised as Terry when Simon told him, but both of them understood when Simon explained he just wanted the whole ordeal over, he just wanted to move on. The Doctor had said that was a good sign. Terry... Terry hadn't said anything, but had given Simon a proud grin and held him, just held him. And after that, Simon finally began to feel like his old self again.

Doctor Gibson. He shifted his weight from one foot to the other. That man had become a regular in this past month. Twice a week he'd go in and talk about what was bothering him, what had made him feel like crying, or feel angry, or feel nothing at all. At first he was rather shy, not talking about anything significant. Gibson was patient, though, and after a couple sessions, Simon found himself suddenly talking about his memories and feelings of the attack. It was...a relief. Afterwards he was so drained that he just fell asleep after Lucy brought him home. He didn't wake up until Terry had come to get him for dinner.

This time Simon smiled at himself. Terry had kept his promise and was currently residing in what used to be called the Hello Kitty room. Granted it took about a week before Terry slept in that room, but the teen hadn't objected to sharing Simon's bed. After this week, though, after graduation, he was going back to his own house, presumably to pack for college. This past month has been great, though. With him right there when I needed him, giving me space when I asked, but still somewhere so I would feel safe. He must really love me. I...wonder how college will change him.

Terry going away to college still bothered Simon, but Terry never brought it up. Probably because he knew it would upset me while I was healing, and he didn't want to make things any harder. So, Simon had decided that just this one, he was going to listen to the old adage, that ignorance was bliss. And thus far it had been, though Doctor Gibson had received an hour long diatribe on his fear of Terry leaving him, of losing him. Matt had heard some of Simon's fears as well in the now biweekly calls they made to each other. Matt understood his fears better than anyone, and that was mainly because of his numerous failed long-distance relationships. But Matt also said Terry wouldn't let that happen, and that I should remember his mistakes, and learn from them.

"Hey handsome."

An arm wrapped around Simon's waist and he rested his head on the shoulder he knew would be there. "Hey." He glanced up to his boyfriend. "What kept you?"

Terry let out a sigh through his nose and ran a hand through his hair. "The VP asked me to be one of the graduation speakers."

"That's great. Matt was Valedictorian, and he-"

"I turned her down."

Simon blinked and stood up, readjusting the strap of his book bag. "What? Why? It's a great honor."

"Speaking in front of Congress is a great honor. This...I don't want to give a speech with people who are only there because their GPA allows them to be. Everyone should have a chance to read. Instead, the school chooses who they think are the best and the brightest." Terry leaned against the lockers, facing Simon. "It's not right to exclude people just because they're not good at taking tests."

Simon patted his bag. "I...get it, but it would still be pretty cool if you gave a speech."

Terry shrugged and headed for the parking lot. "It's just something I never really wanted to do. My brother did it, and even to him it wasn't that big a deal." He glanced over his shoulder. "If it means that much to you, though-"

Simon caught up to the model and kept pace next to him. "Don't do anything you don't want to do. I just think it'd be...kinda cool if you did, that's all." He stuck his hands in his pocket and scanned the lockers as they walked. I'd be proud, too. I could say that's my boyfriend up there, the man I love up there. But that's selfish. This is going to be your day.

Terry remained silent for a few minutes, mulling over what Simon said. "I'll agree to be a back-up speaker, in case one of the readers gets sick or something, okay?"

Simon nodded and reached out to take Terry's hand, not caring who saw as they exited the school building. Terry doesn't want to draw any more attention to us, but he deserves to give a speech. He broke the handhold as they approached the car. Terry still rode his bike, mostly to work, but he had switched to driving his car to school while Simon was still healing. Granted, he was mostly healed now, but it still hurt from time to time when he stretched certain ways that Terry wouldn't let him onto a motorcycle.

Terry unlocked the doors and climbed into the driver's seat. "Hey, it's okay if we stop by my house, right? I need to check on the mail."

"Sure." Simon buckled his seat belt and rested back in the seat. Neither teen spoke as Terry pulled out of the student parking lot, just giving each other silent support. In the past, Simon would've worried about silence, but after being hurt as he had, a small amount of physical contact, even when nothing was being said, was enough for him. Case and point, Terry reached over and squeezed Simon's knee. I love you too, Terry. And I'm not going anywhere.

~*()*~

"You mean Jordon's not coming to his graduation? Why?"

Lucy shrugged at her mother and continued searching for the leftover teriyaki chicken Terry had prepared last night. "The school year is structured differently than here, and he can't leave. But he did promise to visit Terry during his summer break."

"Poor Terry." Annie set the last dish in the dishwasher and checked on the brownies she had in the oven. "So he's not going to have anyone at his graduation?"

"Well, Simon and I--ah, here it is--are going to attend and take him to dinner afterwards." Lucy pulled out the foil covered meat and set it on the counter. "Did he tell you the recipe for this?"

"Yes. And why hasn't Terry asked us to come?" Annie grabbed a clean plate and handed to it Lucy.

"I think he didn't want to bother the family about it, since you've attended three already, and have three more to go, four if you think the twins will want separate parties, or go to different schools." Lucy placed a breast on the plate and put the dish in the microwave.

"I'm sure it'd be no trouble to attend, and no one should be without their family during graduation. And he is like family."

Lucy started heating the meat and watched her mother. "Really?"

"Really what?"

"He's really like family?"

Annie shifted a bit, feeling slightly uncomfortable at the stare her daughter was giving her. "Well, yes. It doesn't seem like Simon's going to fall in love with anyone else, and what he's done in this past month, not to mention the last two years...he's family."

Lucy continued watching her mother until the microwave beeped, then she shifted her attention to her late lunch. "Alright. I'm sure Terry would love to have you at graduation, as long as you don't make a big deal over it." She grabbed a knife and fork and took a seat at the table. "And Simon and I can shift the party to here instead, no problem."

Annie blinked as Lucy cut into her meal and started eating. "What...was that about?"

"Huh?"

"That look. What was that about?"

Lucy swallowed the piece of food she had in her mouth. "Oh, that. Well, we, that is, everyone, sort of picked up on some, er, tension between you and Terry. I just...wanted to make sure everything was okay."

Annie scratched her head. Sure, I was a little jealous of Terry because Simon kept turning to him, but...I didn't think I let it show that much. As Lucy just pointed out, though, she had failed, and the entire house knew it. Well, he is taking my baby away. Of course I feel a little...possessive, a little jealous. But I didn't mean to...upset everyone. Sighing, she moved to the washer to start the next load. I'll try and make it up to him by giving him a great graduation party. And...I won't be jealous of him any more. I promise.

She just hoped she could keep it.

~*()*~

Simon glanced at the three packages on Terry's porch with raised eyebrows. One was obviously from Amazon.com, but the other two were hand written, and looked like they were gifts. He picked the boxes up as Terry grabbed the other mail and opened the front door. "Where should I put these?"

"With the others by the coffee table," Terry answered absently, sorting through the envelopes from his box.

Others? Simon easily spotted the pile of about a half dozen gifts resting in front of the coffee table. There were one or two oddly shaped packages, but the rest were obviously gifts of some sort or another. Who're all these from? And for what? His birthday's two months off. Setting the boxes down, he looked at some of the return addresses. None were from Japan, which ruled out both Amber and Jordon. They're coming later this year, I think, anyway. One was from Africa, and another from France. His aunt and mom. The others, however, were from various cities around the United States.

"Alright, nothing urgent. You ready to go?" Terry glanced over at Simon and raised an eyebrow at the curious, and slightly jealous look on the blond's face. "Would you like to know what they are?"

Simon's head snapped towards Terry, and a blush crept across his face as he realized Terry read his feelings so easily. "Well, um...kinda. I...didn't miss a birthday or something, did I?"

"No, you didn't." Terry walked over and sat on the edge of a couch, picking up one of the packages. "They're actually graduation gifts. Most of them from friends."

"But you don't get this many on your birthday, or Christmas." Simon took a seat next to the auburn haired teen. "Why so many now?"

"It's a rite of passage, I guess. Leaving high school, that is." Setting the gift down, Terry sighed. "Besides, I sent them gifts for their graduations. And with our history..." He got a slightly nostalgic look, seeing past the packages to memories.

Simon watched Terry a few minutes, before making the connection. History...these...these are from more than friends. "Your ex-boyfriends?"

Terry blinked and turned towards Simon. "Huh? Yeah. We still keep in touch from time to time. Actually, most of these are from the ex's I helped to come out, either to themselves, or to their families." He ran a hand through his hair.

So he keeps in touch with his ex's. I guess I'm not really that worried. I mean, they all live across the country. Most of mine I share classes with, and Terry was never suspicious once. Granted, Simon's ex's were all women, whereas Terry's appeared to be men. "So...you keep in touch?"

"Yeah, every now and then." Terry put an arm around Simon's shoulders. "You don't have to worry. They know I'm spoken for." He leaned against his boyfriend a bit. "And most of them have their own boyfriends. Well, except this one." Terry tapped one gift. "He decided he was straight after all."

Simon smiled a bit, but still felt a bit thrown off by the news. Sure, he kept in touch with his ex's, but they never exchanged anything more than homework. Then again, Terry's helped them understand themselves, like he did for me. I guess that would make him stand out in their minds. "Are you," he hesitated, not really wanting to bring this subject up, "are you going to a college near any of them?"

Terry remained silent, his eyes roaming over the books in a bookcase on the far wall, before he sat up and kissed Simon, stroking the blond's cheek. "We should get going. You have finals tomorrow." He stood up and headed for the door, looking back when Simon didn't immediately follow him.

So...he doesn't want to distract me, or upset me yet. Maybe he's waiting until after graduation to tell me. Sighing, Simon stood and followed, turning off the light as he exited the house. "Right. Finals."

Terry tossed the keys of the car in the air once before ambling over and unlocking the doors, climbing in without another word. On any subject.

~*()*~

Lucy sat at the apartment table and looked around her current living conditions. She and Kevin hadn't lived there long, but already she was ready to leave. They hadn't been married long, but it felt...awkward living over the garage. I'm married, studying to be a preacher, and I still live with my parents. It had always bugged her a little, but never to the point it was today. And why was today any different? Because Terry was graduating soon.

Terry's graduating from high school, and not only is he ready to be living on his own, has been living on his own, he's practically been living without parents for over a year. I mean, Jordon certainly didn't really count as an authority figure. She shook her head. My brother's boyfriend is more mature than I am. Even Simon is, he's ready to move out of the house and try living on his own.

It was a really depressing thought. Did I really see myself living off my parents when I was this old, like Matt did? Did I see myself living like this when I got married? She bit her lip. We should be out of this house, on our own, at our own place. Maybe not a house, but an apartment outside of my parents' immediate field of influence. Someplace nearby, though, so I can still help Simon, Ruthie, and the twins. Especially the twins. She ran a hand through her hair. It's time for us to leave. Kevin enjoys being a role model for the twins, but he's showing signs of frustrations staying here.

She stood up and moved to her bed, laying down on it on her back. So the big question is what to do about it. Move, obviously, but where? I'm pretty sure I don't want to worry about a mortgage yet, but finding apartments, especially decent ones, are nearly impossible. She sighed through her nose. I wonder if Terry would rent out his house while he's away at college.

"Hi honey, hard day?"

Lucy smiled a bit at Kevin and sat up on her elbows. "Not really. Just thinking."

Kevin tossed his coat on a chair and sat by his wife. "About what?"

Lucy pushed herself up and leaned against the headboard. "Do you think that, over the summer, we could move?"

Kevin leaned back and raised his eyebrows. "Are you unhappy living in Glen Oak?"

"No, no. I just...I don't want to live off my parents anymore." She rested her hands on one of Kevin's. "It's not that I want to buy a house, but I would like a bigger apartment, one that's not so close to my parents so that we can be on our own."

"What brought this on?" Kevin moved his other hand to rest on top of Lucy's hands.

"Just...things changing. I just think it's time we move on. This was a great temporary place, but do you really see us staying here, having kids here, growing old here?"

Kevin remained silent a moment, lost in thought. He shook his head slowly. "It won't be easy to find a place in Glen Oak. This place, while a bit small, is a good deal. It'll be hard to top it."

"I know, but it's time." Lucy moved to the edge of the bed and pulled her hands back, folding them together. "So let's look quietly for a while. We can tell everyone when we're sure we have a place to go. So that they won't dwell on it."

"Alright." Kevin leaned over and kissed her forehead. "If this is what you want, we can do it." He looked her in the eyes. "This is what you want, right? It isn't some whim?"

"It's not a whim. I know this is what I want. I...we have to do this."

Kevin nodded and stood up, stretching. "Okay, then. The Kinkirks are moving out."

Lucy smiled and looked around the apartment once more. Let's just hope the family can adjust to the idea as quickly as Kevin can.

~*()*~

Simon sighed as he looked over the bookcase before him. His final today had gone off without a hitch, and he decided to get a start on the AP Literature reading list by buying 'Frankenstein.' 'Invisible Man' was the other novel he could read, but as he had already read it the previous year (by coincidence, only), he decided to try the new book. He also wanted to buy a book for Terry, nothing fancy, just something fun.

Simon smiled slightly. If he got the right type of book, Terry would sit for hours reading, and Simon could snuggle next to him, reading his own book, or even napping. It had happened a couple times over the last month, and he had to admit, it was rather cozy. Might as well get close to him while I can.

His smile faded slightly. His question to Terry from yesterday was still unanswered, and he had a feeling it would remain that way until Terry wished him to know. Does he even know what to say to me? Maybe he hasn't said anything because...he doesn't know what to say. He doesn't want to hurt me, so maybe he's just...working on the phrasing. It was one of the many reasons he could think of for Terry remaining silent.

Maybe I'm dwelling on this too much. He rolled his eyes. Maybe. Right. I'm obsessing over it. I've got to stop. I'm not going to be able to enjoy my remaining time with Terry if I don't. He took a deep breath and closed his eyes, trying to clear his mind.

Two arms pulled Simon into a hug, and someone nuzzled his neck from behind. Simon tensed slightly, but he smiled and relaxed into the hold. He knew Terry's scent, the feel of his arms. He rested his own hands on Terry's and opened his eyes, taking in Terry's grin. "Hey you. How'd you find me? I thought you were going home after work."

"We were doing an in-store shoot next door and I saw you go into this bookstore. We finished one part, so I thought I'd surprise you." He kissed Simon's cheek. "Surprised?"

"Yeah. Thanks." Simon pulled away, turning around and capturing Terry's hands with his own, looking the model over. He was dressed more formally than usual, with black jeans and a button down shirt, a dull evergreen in color, with the top two buttons undone, exposing just a bit of his chest. He was wearing a gentleman's leather jacket, and a winning smile. All together, it made Simon's heart jump. Gorgeous, and he's mine. He pulled Terry forward into another hug, planting his lips on his boyfriend's almost possessively.

They remained that way for nearly five minutes, Terry finally breaking the contact so he could get air to his lungs. Breathing a bit heavily, he simply grinned at Simon. "And to what do I owe that sudden burst of affection to?"

"Just how handsome you look, and because I love you." Simon was just as breathless, but glowing as much as Terry. "And we haven't done something like that in, oh, it must be a week by now."

Terry chuckled and wrapped an arm around Simon's shoulders. "So, what're we looking for?"

"Just some AP Lit books, nothing that can't wait."

Terry shrugged slightly and started scanning the bookshelves himself, though he didn't know what title Simon was looking for. "Speaking of English."

"Ugh." Simon wrinkled his nose. "Must we?"

"How'd your final go?"

"Pretty good." Finally spotting the title and author he was looking for, he pulled out a book and glanced at its back. "The essay portion was tricky, but nothing too bad. How was the Senior Brunch?"

"Don't get me started." Terry pulled his arm off his partner and stuffed his hands in his pockets. "It was a sports awards meeting, with mediocre food. I'm so glad I had to leave early for this shoot. Which," he glanced at his watched, "I have to get back to. Our break will be up in a few minutes. See you in a couple hours? I'll rent a movie on the way home for us tonight."

"Don't you have graduation tomorrow?"

"And you have your last final, yep. But neither one requires intense studying, right?"

Simon mentally reviewed the test he had to take. He nodded. "Alright, sure. A comedy?"

"Your wish is my command. See you!" Waving, Terry headed out of the aisle and towards the front of the store.

Simon watched him a few minutes before moving to another aisle to try and find Terry a book. That was a welcome surprise. I wonder if he'll do that after he goes away. Just show up...and surprise me. He smiled. Maybe Terry leaving wouldn't be that bad, not if he showed up looking that good, and that eager to kiss. Something to think about.

~*()*~

Eric Camden was used to having sudden changes in plans. These changes could be instantaneous, happening immediately, or planned changes, ranging from a few days to a few weeks. It took a while to get used to, but he eventually did. So, when he wife told him they were going to attend Terry's graduation and throw him a party afterwards, he wasn't surprised, or going to protest.

Actually, he was going to propose the same idea to Annie, as he felt Terry deserved a little more than just his boyfriend and friend showing up when he got handed that diploma. He also heard, through the household grapevine known as Ruthie, that it was possible Terry was going to be one of the graduation speakers. Other than Matt, no one in the family, or close to it, had given a speech, and he felt that he should at least record it for Jordon's sake.

"I won't be able to go. You have to take over the cooking, cleaning, laundry, and don't forget, Terry's party."

So this was simply yet another change in his life. One phone call and Annie was packing her bags for what appeared to be a week-long getaway. Her mood, however, was anything but happy. Which meant one of two things: something had happened to Ginger, or, and this was more likely, her father's Alzheimer's had reached its final stages. "Are you sure you don't want me to go with you, or any of us?"

"No, no. Ginger said," Annie stopped her packing and leaned against her suitcase. She seemed shaken, which worried Eric. "Ginger said he's starting to forget people, lashing out at friends he just saw a week ago." She continued putting clothes into the bag.

"Alright. But call if you need anything. Do you...know how long?"

Annie shook her head. "It could be anywhere from a few months to a-" she choked on the word momentarily. "To a few days."

Eric nodded and handed her the carryon bag. "Okay. Just remember, we're here."

"I know, it's just...something I need to do alone for now." She stopped moving around the room and looked at Eric. "Don't tell the kids, not until after Terry's graduation. I...don't want to ruin it for him, for any of them. Alright?"

"If that's what you want." Eric didn't really agree, but he knew arguing the point would be moot. "Do you need a ride to the airport?"

"I've already called a taxi." Zipping up her bags, she grabbed them and headed out the door. A minute later she came back and hugged Eric. "Love you."

"Love you, too." Eric watched his wife leave once more before sitting on the bed and staring out the window. Charles had always been...and interesting father-in-law. A great one, compared to the Colonel, but interesting. Almost nothing shook him. He wasn't even surprised when Simon admitted he was gay, which was a feat even Eric failed to do.

It wouldn't be hard to hide the truth from everyone for a day. Terry and Simon were in the family room watching some movie. Lucy had floated in and joined them, waiting for Kevin to get home. Ruthie was upstairs with Peter, working on some joint book report, and the twins...

"Daddy, where's mommy going?"

"Yeah, where's mommy going?"

The twins were right at his feet. Looking at them, he smiled slightly and picked them up into a hug. "Mommy has to go see Grandpa for a while, but we'll be fine here." He set them down and stood up. "Come on, let's go make dinner."

"Pizza."

"Yeah, pizza!"

Eric glanced at Sam, then David. "Close. Why don't we swing by KFC tonight. They say it's good for daddy's heart." The twins glanced at each other, but nodded silently and Eric grabbed his keys and wallet. "Great. Let's go get dinner." And think up a better lie than 'mommy needs to see Grandpa' for those people who have cognitive thinking skills.

~*()*~

It was nearly one before Simon got home from his last final, and he immediately sought out his boyfriend, worried he had missed the teen leaving for graduation already. Setting his bag down in his room, he headed to the end of the hall and quietly knocked on the door. Not hearing anything, he slipped the door open. It wasn't uncommon for Terry to not hear someone knock, mainly because he often wore headphones to listen to music, and turned it up really loud.

Terry wasn't listening to music, though. He was lying on the bed on his back, taking a simple afternoon nap. He had thrown on some jogging shorts and a tank top, and part of his skin was already slightly tanned thanks to the sunlight that was washing over him through the window. One arm was thrown over his eyes, but otherwise he had a completely relaxed pose.

Simon watched Terry's chest rise and fall a few minutes before he shut the door and slipped his shoes off. An afternoon siesta wouldn't be too bad, especially if Terry and I go out after the family party. Walking softly to the bed, he silently crawled onto the mattress and worked his way so that he was snuggled next to Terry. He managed to work one arm around Terry's waist before getting comfortable and going still. A second later, though, Terry's arm moved and wrapped around Simon. The blond smiled sheepishly as he met Terry's sleepy eyes. "Sorry. I didn't mean to wake you."

Terry let out a yawn and closed his eyes again. "S'okay. It was a light sleep." He rolled over slightly and rested his head against the blond's shoulder. "S'nice."

Simon nodded and let out his own yawn. "So, how was rehearsal?"

"Boring, and redundant." Simon felt Terry let out a breath through his nose. "It's not exactly rocket science, what we have to do." He waited a beat. "I'm giving a speech. One of the speakers is missing a credit and can't graduate."

Simon grinned. "I'm sure you'll give a great speech."

"It's not about how great it is, Simon."

"I know. But still, I'm sure it'll be great."

Terry lapsed into silence, and Simon felt the model's breathing even out. Hesitating a moment, he reached over and stroked Terry's hair, eliciting a soft hum of approval from the teen. You're graduating, and tomorrow...you're moving back home. Then...who knows where you'll go from there. You probably won't keep the house, so I won't even have that to go to when I feel lonely.

"Go t'sleep, Simon. I'll wake you before I go."

Simon closed his eyes and rested his forehead against Terry's chin. The problem is...I don't want you to go. Ever. Still, he yawned once more and fell into the same light sleep as the man beside him.

~*()*~

Terry waved back at the group of girls waving at him. He was not looking forward to this graduation. Before, when he was just going up to get his diploma, he didn't mind, but now he had to give a speech, be the center of attention. I've been that too much lately, and so has Simon. He also felt sort of wrong giving this speech. He was chosen because of his good grades and high GPA, not because he wanted to give a speech or because he won a lottery or was chosen from a group of speakers.

But I promised Simon I would. And he wasn't going to break a promise, especially not to him. And if it meant being resented by some people, well, after today he probably wouldn't see any of them. And if I do, well, they know not to mess with me, or Simon. He never told Simon, but he had been hassled by homophobic students as well. While he had his own circle of defense in the form of friends, there were a few times when he had had to deal with the insults alone.

They weren't very hurtful, or even creative compared to some of the things he'd been called, but they were a painful reminder of what happened to Simon, and what could still happen, to either of them. No matter what, they'll always be those who want to hurt us, to get rid of us. He shook the thought off and moved over to a small group of students, most of which had been in his art class.

That had been an experience. He had never taken a school art class before, and he found it was rather fun. Granted, his collage of Evangelion images, centered around Lilith and the Sephiroth, had raised some questioning eyebrows. But his final piece, a drawing he had entitled 'Black Velvet,' had earned him back some of the respect he felt he lost when he came out.

Simon's going to love it. 'Black Velvet' was currently at a framer's, and Terry planned to give it to Simon as a gift. When, he wasn't sure, but it was a portrait of his boyfriend, so it was only right he inherit it as a gift.

"Alright people, settle down. We're going to march into the gym, just like we practiced. Speakers, be sure you're last."

Terry rolled his eyes at the Principle, but did as he was instructed. Like I said, not rocket science. Though watching some of the seniors try to walk in an orderly line made him wonder. Geeze, and here you thought Jordon's opinions had no influence on you. Somewhere in his head he could swear he heard his brother's voice laughing.

Walking past the audience, it was easy to spot the Camden family, minus Annie and Kevin. The former because of a trip to see her dad, and the latter because he was at work. Eric had a video camera, which Terry mentally kicked himself for. Shoulda hid that. I do not want to be caught on video. Simon, though, he and Lucy were smiling and sitting proudly. His boyfriend waved, and Terry winked back, not wanting to slow the line up by pausing to wave.

Being one of the speakers, he didn't sit with the other students, but on the stage with the other speakers and the administrative staff. I just wanted to be one of them, the ones in the crowd, one in hundreds. And now I'm giving a speech. He glanced at his hands. He had memorized the speech that the Vice Principal had approved for him to read, but it felt...hollow. I didn't really put any effort into that speech. I just wrote what I thought he'd like. He furrowed his brow as the Principal stood and began giving his speech. His mind began pulling ideas, some from his prepared speech, others from events that had happened over the years, and began forming a new speech. He was the last to speak before the diplomas, so he had plenty of time.

After a while an arm nudged him and he glanced at the teacher sitting next to him. She nodded to the podium, and he realized it was his turn to speak. He waited until the previous speaker introduced him before standing and walking over to the wooden platform. Simon was still sitting proud, grinning at him. He saw Lucy whisper something to him, causing the blond the blush and push her. Wonder what that's about. Eric was giving him the thumbs up as well, still holding the camera. A few minutes later, the applause quieted down. Here goes nothing.

"Well, I had a speech prepared, but when I thought about it, it really didn't...feel right for this moment. It was dry, artificial, and to be honest, I didn't truly believe what I had written. So, I've decided to try a different approach: I'm going to be honest with you. And the most honest I can be is by telling you this, I didn't want to be here. When I was first approached to give a speech, I turned them down. I didn't want to be in the spotlight again.

He could feel the administration's disapproving stares on the back of his neck, and ignored them. "Most of you know what I mean. This year has been filled with many events, some great, such as the Fashion Show, the art gallery; but some of it has been pretty difficult. Me and my boyfriend coming out was probably one of the biggest shocks to this school. It was difficult for you, and for us, and once things got back to normal I had hoped we wouldn't be thrust into the spotlight again.

"I was wrong, though." He saw Simon duck his head. "Most of you were at the prom, where my boyfriend was attacked. We were once again thrust into the spotlight, and neither of us wanted it. I especially didn't want it, because I knew it would be a difficult recovery, for both of us. And, eventually, the spotlight was turned away, we healed, and everything's back to normal once more.

"So what exactly is the point of my speech? I'm talking about spotlights and attacks and events, so what am I getting at?" He shrugged. "I guess that high school reinforced a fact I had known long before I entered the public school system: there are ups and downs to being yourself. Some of what I did was great for this school. There had never been Fashion Show before, and I know all that participated had the time of their lives. I was myself then, and it was a wonderful event I'll never forget. I also opened my heart and my life to the public, and suffered a painful consequence. It's an event I'll never forget, either, but for different reasons.

"Basically, I'm trying to say that no matter what life throws at you, no matter what you fear society will think, stay your course. Do what you need to, what you want to, to be happy. For every negative consequence we endure for our happiness," he made eye contact with Simon and smiled slightly, "the positive consequences are returned tenfold. These last two years have been trying, but I also know that everything has been worth it, and I will never regret being myself, being happy.

"So when you leave for college and become more independent, remember who you are, don't lose yourself, or your happiness. Fight for what you believe in, and never give up hope." He took a deep breath. "In conclusion, I'd like to quote from the immortal words of Shinji Ikari: Thank you, my father. Goodbye, my mother. And to all the children...Congratulations."

He bowed slightly at the applause, even though he caught a few confused looks at his final words. It's complicated, but it's true. He backed away and returned to his seat, simply shrugging at the accusing look the Vice Principal was giving him. He didn't care. He had spoken his mind, his true thoughts, and as long as he touched at least one person, he was happy. He shifted his attention to the Principal as he began calling names and handing out diplomas, mentally going over what he had planned for tonight.

~*()*~

"Here's to you, Terry. Congratulations on making it through four, er, two years of high school." Terry laughed at Eric's toast and raised his glass of sparkling cider. Eric knew of Terry's Japanese customs, but with the twins and Ruthie attending this little party, he didn't want alcohol around. If Terry minded, he didn't say anything. I'm sure it's not a big deal.

Terry finished sipping his drink and set his glass down. "You guys really didn't have to do this. I just finished high school. It's not a big deal."

"It is a big deal. Consider how many people drop out."

Terry raised an eyebrow at Kevin. "Kevin, I was home schooled with a Japanese educational mindset. You don't 'drop out,' in Japan. You commit suicide, but you don't drop out."

It was Kevin's turn to raise an eyebrow.

Simon simply shook his head and took another drink of his cider. "So are you going to open your gifts?"

"Gifts? What gifts?" Lucy looked around. "Simon, did you get something without telling me?"

"I think he means the gifts that I got in the mail from my ex-boyfriends. And yes, Simon, I'm opening them tomorrow. You want to come over and help?"

"I'd love to."

"Can I come too?"

Terry shrugged at Ruthie. "Fine by me, but check with your father."

Eric put up his hands. "Hey, whatever you can do to help keep her busy, I'll be okay with. Any chance you can take the twins, too?"

"I doubt it. I'm willing to bet there'll be some fragile stuff."

"We'll watch the twins, dad. It'll give Kevin and I some practice for when we have our own."

Kevin choked on his food, causing everyone to laugh at his surprised face.

"So Terry," Ruthie pushed some of her cake around, "what are you going to do now?"

Simon looked expectantly at Terry, and Eric watched his son's interaction with his boyfriend. He hadn't heard anything about Terry's plans post graduation, and from the look on Simon's face, neither had he. He must not've wanted to upset Simon, but now...it's over. He has to spill.

"Oh, you know, a little of this, a little of that." Terry avoided Simon's gaze, avoided everyone's actually, by serving the twins another helping of cake. "The modeling company's hired me to interview some potential models later this month. And of course, I'm moving back home tomorrow."

Eric furrowed his brow, recognizing the stalling tactic. He's hiding something, but what? He opened his mouth to ask Terry about what college he was attending, when the phone rang. As he was the closest, he got up and caught it on the second ring. He heard a few noises from the dinning room as he talked to Lou, and realized the party had broken up, or at least migrated. Terry's going to have to tell us his college plans at some point. He just hoped that whatever they were, it wouldn't hurt Simon too much.

~*()*~

"Terry?" Simon stepped out onto the back porch and rubbed his arm, spotting his boyfriend sitting at the picnic table. Closing the back door, he walked over and stuck his hands in his jeans, looking up at the moon. "Are...you okay? I went up to the bathroom and when I got back, you were gone."

"I just needed some air. It's kind of overwhelming when you realize that you're finished with it, that you don't have to attend anymore."

Simon sat next to Terry and rubbed his back. "I'll bet." He frowned slightly, sensing Terry was apprehensive about something. "Terry, what's on your mind?"

Terry chuckled. "Something big. I'm just wondering if it's the right thing, and since it is, trying to gather the courage to bring it out." Terry looked to the ground and rubbed his hands together.

Simon blinked, unsure of what Terry was talking about. Unless...his college plans. He's afraid to tell me. "I...you know I love you, Terry, and you can tell me anything." He wrapped his arms around Terry and pulled the model into a hug.

Terry leaned against Simon for a few minutes before pulling away and turning around to face the blond. He took a deep breath and looked into Simon's gray eyes, capturing them with his own brown ones. "Simon, What I'm about to say is...kind of difficult because it means a big change for me, for us."

Simon sat back and put his hands in his lap. Yeah. He's going to tell me where he's going to college. He sighed quietly. I won't cry, no matter how far away he's going. I'll make it work, we'll make it work. "What is it?"

"Simon, we've been going out for about a year and a half, and I'd be lying if I said they were perfect. But despite all the difficulties, despite the problems, we're still together. You're...special to me. I love you more than I've ever loved anyone before. And...and I never want to lose it. Not to distance, not to family, not to anything.

"I love you, and I'm willing to do anything to make sure our love survives." Digging into his khakis, he pulled out a small object and held it out to Simon. "So will you, Simon Camden, do me the honor of promising to be with me? To enter into a completely monogamous relationship with a symbol of our love that others can recognize?"

This wasn't what Simon was expecting. Don't cry. Just...don't cry. Swallowing, Simon carefully took the silver band in Terry's palm and turned it over in his fingers. It was a simple ring, no gems, no inscriptions, just a nice silver ring that, he noticed, had a twin resting on Terry's right hand. A symbol of our relationship, a promise to be his even though he'll be far away. Sniffing slightly, he slipped the ring onto his finger. "Terry...of course. You didn't have to do this, though. It's too-"

Terry cut Simon off by kissing him, pulling the younger man closer. He didn't keep them together for long, though, and pulled away when he felt Simon wouldn't speak. "There's more, Simon." He ran a hand through Simon's blond locks. "I've decided to postpone college, until we can attend together." He smiled softly. "I'm not leaving, Simon. Not without you. That's my promise, my gift, to you."

Simon stared at Terry, diving into the depths of Terry's golden eyes. I...I can't stand it any more. Tears slipped down his cheeks, and he pulled Terry into another hug, initiating another, far more passionate kiss with his boyfriend. God, I love you. No one...no one's ever done this for me, never made this sacrifice for me, ever. He tightened his hold around Terry. I'm never letting you go. We'll be together, forever.

When Terry needed to breathe, he pulled away, panting slightly as he licked his lips. "I take it, then, that you agree? You want me to stay?"

"Yes. More than anything." Simon released Terry from the embrace and punched him on the arm lightly. "I am angry with you, though."

"You are? Why?"

"You didn't tell me! All this time I've been worrying, and you, you just-"

Terry chuckled and rested his forehead against Simon's. "I was pretty sure I was staying, but I wasn't sure if you wanted me to."

"I want it, no, I want you more than I want anything. You should've told me."

"I wanted it to be a surprise."

Simon closed his eyes. "It was. A very nice surprise." He opened them again. "But if you ever pull something like this again, I'll have to hurt you."

This time Terry laughed and hugged Simon again. "Agreed." He kissed Simon briefly. "I love you, Simon Camden. And nothing is going to break us up."

"I hope not, and I love you, too, Terry Jordon." With that, Simon made himself comfortable against his boyfriend and looked up at the stars. He felt Terry relax behind him. Thank you, Lord, for not taking him away from me. Thank you a million times over.

Terry squeezed Simon's hand, the one with the ring, and the two sat in companionable silence, watching the night sky.

~*()*~

~*()*~

~*()*~

Author's Prattle: My, that was just filled with mushy sappiness, wasn't it. Sorry it took so long, but with Thanksgiving and finals, it just took forever to get everything done. And Terry's speech...oi. That took a while to come to me. Yes, a bit corny, oozing sappiness, but with all the angst and such from the last chapters, I felt it was time for a nice loving chapter. Besides, the next chapter will have angst again.

As you've noticed, in addition to the graduation, I've begun a few subplots. These'll play out over the next few chapters, evolving into its own story line, completely separate from the TV story line (as if it's not already). Speaking of the graduation, the last words to Terry's speech was actually my Senior Quote (well, the main one; I had nearly fifty). I think it's a lovely way to end a major event, be it high school, college, etc.

As for those of you who think Terry postponing college is wrong...that's actually going to be explained in the next chapter (it's been half done for...about a year, now). And the ring, that's normal. Well, symbols of love are, anyway. And they have been going steady for over a year...it felt like a good time. Doesn't mean it'll be a smooth relationship, though. Again, next chapter.

Disclaimers. I don't own 7th Heaven, it's characters, or settings. They belong to Aaron Spelling and Brenda Hampton. Nor do I own Neon Genesis Evangelion (the Shinji Ikari quote). That wonderful series belongs to GIANAX. I don't own Mary Shelly's Frankenstein or Kentucky Fried Chicken, either. I think that's about all of them this chapter.

So, I hope you enjoyed this chapter, and as always, reviews are welcome. Until next time! Happy Holidays!