Lurking

by GreaserMcGoo

As if risking his life every day just doing his job wasn't enough, Travis finds himself getting into even more trouble, or rather the trouble finds him. Turns out Grant has a new boyfriend, who isn't too fond of Grant's ex and all this guy wants is to make Travis's life a living Hell. Rated for mildly dark themes.

7. Developing

A/N: Again, dark themes ahead so just another warning. Also, I'm not a firefighter and i'm certainly not a doctor so don't expect this to be insanely accurate.

The next morning Travis awoke to the voices of Jace and Zack, frowning deeply as he lifted his head, his neck terribly sore, blinking awake, avoiding eye contact with both of them as they came over.

His gag was removed and he was untied, not saying a word as they grabbed him gently by the arms, eyes wide as he was still scarred after last night, not bothering to struggle, not even knowing if he could, still feeling quite weak.

He knew today he'd be going to work and honestly all he could think about was getting the hell away from these two.

Zack took ahold of him as Jace stepped away, Travis flinching, though he didn't pull away, swallowing hard as he tried his hardest not to think of them, trying to think of the moment when he'd walk into the station and be with his friends again.

"Pick out something nice for him." Zack watched Jace pick out a new set of clothes for Travis, who remained quiet.

"Sure am gonna miss him while he's at work. A whole 24 hours, that's too long." Jace remarked.

"Really, I didn't think you'd care." Travis said lowly, looking up with a narrowed look, still hating him for his betrayal.

Jace looked up and their eyes met, each frowning, it quiet for a minute. Zack urged Travis to walk gently, talking lowly. "Come on, Travis."

Travis went with him, frowning softly as he was led to the bathroom, Jace bringing with the clothes he picked out for him.

"Alright Travis, you two leave for work in half an hour, don't dawdle." Zack stood with Jace in front of the bathroom door, Travis grateful to be free of the ropes and bad touches.

"Can't wait." He huffed as he gladly closed the door, sighing loudly when he was alone, his thoughts racing wildly, anxious and worried about going to work.

He quickly hopped into the shower, taking his time, shuddering as he could still feel Zack's hand on him, wanting the feeling to just go away already.

And while the shower felt amazing, it still wouldn't go away, almost making him feel worse.

Travis frowned when he had to change into the clothes Jace had picked out for him, but he didn't think he had much of a choice, reluctantly putting them on.

He frowned at his reflection in the mirror, quickly taking notice of the bruises on his face, half of the bruises having faded, the rest fresh and new, dark. It made Travis a little nervous, having to go to work like that, but he had no other choice, he was going to work no matter what.

When he had finished he came out, meeting Jace outside who had also changed, going to go to work as well.

He frowned at them and wished to just go already, but freaking Jace was taking him to work and there was no denying it, Zack saying goodbye to them both.

"Okay, well Travis, when you're done with your shift, Jace and I will be here waiting here for you and we can have fun all over again."

"So that's it? What, you're going to break into my home again and I'm just supposed to come home expecting you two….? Do I get a choice?" Travis huffed, frowning at him, wanting this nightmare to be over as soon as he got to work.

"Heh heh. Not unless you want someone to get hurt." Zack grinned. "And you know what I mean when I say that."

Travis looked away, quite frustrated. "Can we please just go already so I can get the hell out of here?"

Jace just chuckled softly. "Of course. Come on." He grabbed Travis's arm gently, pulling him to the door, Travis pulling his arm away with a glare, going with him, marching out to Jace's car, not wanting to talk to him at all.

Jace drove and Travis sat with his arms crossed over his chest, glaring ahead, wishing this wasn't happening.

"Have fun at work," Jace cleared his throat after awhile, glancing at him.

"Don't talk to me." Travis huffed, avoiding eye contact.

Jace scoffed softly. "Why not?"

"Because I know you're not actually my boyfriend and you never loved me."

"Thought I told you not to take that so personally." Jace said lowly.

Travis almost growled, feeling furious. "Don't, don't you say that, how do you know what is or isn't personal to me? You're a damn traitor and I know you don't care so don't."

"Well I just-"

"No, just shut up! I loved you and I trusted you with all my heart and I was actually happy again after losing the love of my life, only to find out you never once gave a damn about me or my feelings and I am just supposed to act like I love you and we're still a thing and I'm not supposed to tell anyone?!"

"Well you're not going to, right?" Jace frowned and Travis scoffed in anger.

"That's all you care about, huh? God I hate you."

"Travis-"

"No, no more. Just-Just stop already." Travis growled, shaking his head in anger, glad to see they were pulling up to the station.

"I'll see you after shift okay?" Jace said quietly when the car had stopped.

Travis didn't hesitate to get out, slamming the door shut. "Like hell you will." He stormed towards the station, unable to believe he was finally free, exhaling deeply, both grateful yet nervous.

When he walked in and changed and got up to the beanery, the others quickly asked questions when they saw him.

Of course Travis just stuttered and told them it was just another scrabble he had gotten into, that everything was fine, quickly remembering how awful it felt to lie to his friends, relief disappearing, suddenly discouraged again.

Swallowing hard, he grabbed a plate and started to grab his breakfast, listening to Dean and Maya as they joked, Jack wandering in, grinning.

"Hey Travis, how you doing man?" He greeted as he came up behind him, putting his hand on Travis's shoulder, startling him.

He flinched with a loud yelp, jumping badly at the touch, dropping his plate to the floor where it smashed as he whirled around to face him, a hand over his rapidly beating heart, gasping with a frightened look, flinching again at the sound of the glass shattering.

Wide-eyed, shaking with fear, Travis quickly shook his head, furrowing his eyebrows. "Ah, damn it, Jack!" He shouted loudly, turning to leave quickly, marching past Vic who was coming in, looking to the others quickly, who looked just as concerned, bewildered.

Frowning, she quickly turned to go after Travis, catching up with him. "Hey, are you alright?"

Travis turned to look at her with a frown and Vic's eyes quickly went wide.

"What happened to you?!" She frowned in worry, Travis remembering the bruises.

"Oh um, I-I got into a fight last night…with a guy." Well it wasn't a total lie….

"At the restaurant? Marquis's?" Vic frowned and Travis blinked as he remembered, nodding. "Um, um yeah, exactly."

"Well what just happened with Jack, is something wrong?"

"Um yeah sorry, I guess I just flipped out a little bit." Travis frowned, swallowing hard as he remembered Zack, how just Jack's touch alone reminded him of it, feeling like Zack was groping him all over again, making him shudder, hoping Vic couldn't tell.

"Well that seemed a little extreme, don't you think you should apologize?"

"Well, Jack did scare me so….not really my fault, right?" Travis shrugged, frowning, feeling nervous, on edge.

Vic frowned a little at him. "Are you okay? You're acting weird."

"What? No, no…" Travis swallowed with a grin, trying his best to look okay, stomach tightening a little.

"Okay, well tell me about last night."

Travis quickly frowned, wide-eyed, his mind beginning to race as he remembered Zack and Jace. "Last night? Wh-Wh-What about last night? Wh-Why, why last night?"

"Your date night…." Vic said slowly, eyeing him unsurely, trying to make sense of his stammering. "How it'd go?"

"Oh," Travis started, remembering Jace and his betrayal, trying to think and not stutter his words all at once. "Um, I-it-it was good I guess….everything was…fine."

"Then why are you being so weird right now?" Vic raised a brow and Travis looked her in the eye, swallowing.

Just tell her, you-you can tell her, they won't ever find out, right? She's your best friend, you can tell her anything, she's the one person you can trust, you have to tell her, his brain screamed at him.

Travis opened his mouth and spoke. "Sorry. It's just, Jace and I kinda had an argument last night and I'm a little worked up about it." He fibbed, watching her.

"Oh. See now, that makes sense." Vic nodded, seeming to relax again. "Well I'm sorry, Trav, I'm sure you too will work it out I mean, he is such a perfect guy, you two were practically made for each other."

Travis raised his eyebrows at her, nodding slowly as he looked away. "Uh huh."

"Well guess what, I get to tell you about Ripley today but first, I want breakfast so let's go, okay?"

"Um, actually Vic, you go ahead, I'll be up in a minute okay?" Travis frowned softly at her.

Vic looked at him closely, eyebrows furrowing slowly. "Um sure, alright. Okay." She turned and went back upstairs and Travis watched her go, slowly making his way to the bathroom.

He went in and sighed loudly to himself, a hand to his head, beginning to pace, suddenly more anxious than ever, his thoughts jumbled, messing with him, feeling completely overwhelmed, almost feeling sick because of it.

All he could think of was Zack and Jace, Jace and Zack, Zack and his hands all over him, Jace and his betrayal, how badly he was getting hurt, how much trouble he was in but yet he couldn't tell anyone about it and he felt like he was going crazy!

He wanted to tell someone so badly but he knew he couldn't and he hated not being able to, wishing he wouldn't have to see those two men ever again but he knew he'd have to, but he couldn't, he-he shouldn't, he-he wouldn't!

Pacing around the bathroom, hands to his head in frustration, Travis felt more stressed out and overwhelmed than ever, not wanting to feel this panicked but he did.

He tried his best to calm himself down and even though he was still worrying about everything, he walked out, knowing someone might get suspicious if he stayed away too long.

At line-up, Sullivan tried to put him on reception again, clearly not approving of Travis's injured state again but Travis pleaded with him to at least be on ladder or engine, telling that he was well enough to work, doing all that he could to convince him.

Sullivan finally agreed though reluctant and Travis was glad, relieved that he wouldn't have to be on reception again.

His shift was quite difficult though; all day he was distracted and could hardly focus, jumping if and when anyone touched him, unable to help getting scared, only thinking of Zack, how awful it felt, remembering it.

Jack confronted him about what happened earlier and Travis just apologized nervously, just saying that he had just frightened him, not telling anyone about how he really felt or what was going on, trying to keep quiet throughout his shift as much as possible.

He was tired and also didn't have much energy, still terribly sore from last night, struggling a little when they responded to a call but luckily nobody seemed to notice and nothing bad happened.

When they got back, Travis yawned over and over again, feeling exhausted, glad to get to lie down and sleep in one of the bunk rooms, clearly needing the rest, waking up in a few hours, feeling slightly better.

But he still remained quiet and nobody seemed to really notice except for Vic, who had been keeping an eye on him every now and then.

Shortly before their shift ended, she came to him. "Hey, you doing okay?"

Travis raised his head, nodding to her slowly, still looking tired. "Yeah. I'm alright."

"Good. Well, hey do you wanna hang out after-"

"Yes!" Travis blurted out, not meaning to, quickly regaining himself. "Uh, I mean, yes, I-I would like that."

He could not go back to Zack and Jace, he just couldn't! Not if he had a choice.

Vic nodded, eyebrows raised. "Great. You can ride with me then."

Travis nodded, grinning slightly. "Perfect. Thanks."

When she walked away, he got out his phone, texting Zack, huffing to himself.

I'm going to Vic's tonight. Screw you guys.

Even if he didn't tell anyone, at least getting away from them would be a start.

Checking his phone just before they were able to leave, he saw Zack had quickly responded.

Travis, you're coming home or you're going to get it. Don't make me come and find you! You better be home right after shift or I swear….!

Travis frowned at his phone and typed, No way. I'm not going back there if you two are there.

Zack replied almost immediately. Travis, you better come home this instant!

Travis turned off his phone without a reply, looking up at Vic as they got ready to go, anxious to leave. "Ready?"

"Yeah, let's go." She chirped happily at him with a smile, the two of them walking out to her car, heading off to the mall.

After getting smoothies, they went to her house, playing Monopoly as they ate cookies.

Travis had his phone set aside and though it was on silent-mode, it was lighting up like crazy as it had been all evening, both Jace and Zack texting him endlessly, ignoring it though Vic noticed.

"Is that Jace texting?"

"Um, yeah." He glanced at it, not wanting to read the messages.

"You guys still fighting?"

"Yes." Travis just nodded, not looking at her as he moved his dog five spaces, passing GO.

"Well maybe you could start making up with him by answering his texts…" Vic said softly.

"Um, maybe I will when we're done." He nodded, lips pursed.

"Or maybe you could answer his phone call…" Vic nodded to his phone and Travis looked to see Jace was calling him, frowning.

"Well, go on, answer it." Vic eyed him and Travis figured he'd better, getting up.

"Uh, excuse me." He went to the bathroom, finally answering it though it wasn't Jace who answered, it was Zack.

"You get home right this instant, you little sh**! I mean it, if you don't come home, we're going to-"

"What? You're going to what?" Travis growled, eyes narrowed. "Beat me up again?! No thanks pal."

"You want us to go find Vic? Cause we will! I bet you're with her right now. You're with her aren't you?" Zack snarled and Travis tensed, scowling.

"Shut up! That doesn't matter! Quit bringing her into this!"

"You don't think I was serious about hurting her, do you? Oh ho ho, let's find that out the hard way, shall we?" Zack huffed and Travis growled again.

"Shut up! She's not a part of this and you're not going to hurt anybody!"

"Why should I listen to you? You won't even come home….tell you what, how about I send Jace out to find her and then he can-"

"No, no, you can't, I-I-" Travis stammered, worried he might be serious, not wanting Vic to get hurt.

"You didn't let me finish, Travis! You know what I'm going to have Jace do? He's gonna ra-"

"Shut up!" Travis almost screamed, losing it, shaking. "You said you wouldn't hurt her if I didn't tell anyone and I haven't told anyone so just drop it!" He almost whimpered, pacing around Vic's bathroom, wide-eyed, scared yet angry.

Zack's voice got lower. "And I won't, but you still need to come home otherwise I can make an exception and go out after her."

Travis frowned and didn't answer, Zack speaking again. "Am I understood?"

Travis swallowed hard, processing his thoughts, just not wanting them to dare try and go after Vic. "O-Okay, okay, just don't hurt her. I-I'll be home by morning, I swear."

He frowned deeply as Zack just chuckled, sounding pleased. "You better be. Jace and I can't wait to see you again." He sing-songed and Travis quickly hung up, sighing loudly, running a hand over his face, hating them both, anxious again, feeling terrible.

He came out after a minute, rejoining Vic at the table, who looked at him carefully.

"That sounded intense…." She said lowly and Travis frowned, wondering if she could hear what he had been saying, praying she hadn't.

"Uh, yeah, it was." He just muttered, turning his attention back to the game.

"Never thought you two would ever be arguing….what are you guys even fighting about anyways?"

Travis frowned at her, thinking quickly. "Just, that-that guy that hit me last night, Jace just got really upset about it that's all."

"Upset? Why would he get upset over you getting hurt, wouldn't he just be worried?" Vic thought aloud with a frown, looking confused.

Travis shifted a little uneasily in his seat, raising his eyebrows at her with a fake smile. "You tell me. Th-That's why we're fighting."

"Well at least he's making the effort to make up, you know, calling and all." Vic moved her piece as she talked softly and Travis frowned at her, wishing she knew what was really going on.

"Uh huh…." He just nodded, keeping it to himself, remembering what Zack said, feeling a little queasy.

He knew what Zack was going to say, that if they did get ahold of Vic, they were going to rape her and Travis could never ever let them even get close to laying a finger on her, knowing he'd never be able to forgive himself for letting his best friend get hurt because of him.

Even if it meant he was the one suffering and getting hurt, Travis knew he had to go through with it if it meant keeping Vic safe.

So if it meant Zack and Jace wanted to keep hurting him, so be it.

---

After spending the night at Vic's, Travis was nervous about going home, knowing what was awaiting him when he got there.

He didn't talk much as he ate breakfast with Vic, who had cooked.

"You're quiet." She commented, watching him, not liking the silence.

Travis shrugged slowly, murmuring. "Jus' thinkin', that's all."

"About Jace?"

Travis looked up, eyes downcast. "Maybe." Was all he could say, eating. It was partially true after all.

"Well, why don't you try calling him again? You two have to make up, I really don't like this cranky Travis, I want the old one back." She smirked at him softly. "Besides the fact you two are so perfect together."

Travis sat still a moment, not answering as he frowned, thinking hard. "I-I'd call him," He started slowly. "But I'm actually going to see him later so…" He wasn't lying….

Vic seemed to perk up. "Oh well there you go! Good….and lemme know what happens, okay?"

Travis just fake-grinned and nodded. "Heh, right."

"You want me to drop you off? I gotta go shopping anyways-"

"No no, it's fine, I-I'll walk home." Travis stated with a nod, not wanting her to be seen by Zack or Jace for the sake of her safety and he didn't want her to somehow spot them.

Vic seemed a little confused and perplexed with him but he assured her it was fine and after finishing breakfast, he headed out.

"Tell Jace I said hi!" Vic called out from inside and Travis turned, just nodding to her with a faint smile and two thumbs up, frowning as soon as she closed the door, sighing loudly as he shook his head.

He did not have a good feeling about this and he was not looking forward to getting home.

He thought perhaps he should just make a detour and spend some time at the cafe to avoid going home, but he had already eaten at Vic's and he knew if the longer he took, the more harsh his punishment would most likely be. He did walk slowly, though.

When he walked up to his front porch, anxiety already planted itself in his stomach, Travis almost gulped as he opened the door and went inside.

Sure enough, Zack was there on the couch, already getting to his feet, Jace quickly coming in from the kitchen.

"What took you so long?!" Zack almost roared as he marched over, Travis frowning as he began to speak.

"I-I, you can't-"

But Zack already was grabbing at him, making him gasp as he was thrown to the floor, landing at Jace's feet.

Already scared, Travis didn't have time to react before Jace wrapped his arms around him and yanked him to his feet, Travis beginning to whimper, Zack punching him harshly.

He cried out, Jace holding him upright despite his struggling, Zack punching him several times as he yelled at him.

"This is what happens when you don't do what we say, Travis! How does it feel huh?! Bet you won't ever disobey us again!"

Zack punched him again and Jace let go of him, letting him fall to the floor, Travis crying out in pain, wincing and gasping, his face hurting badly, seeing stars.

Panting, he tried to get up and attempt to fight to defend himself, but there were two of them and he was already getting grabbed again, hoisted to his feet, getting punched in the stomach.

He cried out as it was Jace's turn to punch him, quickly getting knocked to the floor again, whimpering as he landed, shaking badly.

He cried out when someone grabbed him yet again. "St-Stop it, Stop! Please!"

But they wouldn't listen and Travis was thrown against the wall, Jace quickly punching him.

Travis felt like he couldn't breathe as they kept beating him brutally, not stopping as they kept hitting him, Travis falling to the floor once again, getting terribly weak.

He gasped and cried out at them to stop but Jace just grabbed at his hair, pulling, to which Travis almost screamed in pain, forced to stand, reaching to his hair to make him let go.

"Please stop! Please! S-Somebody help me!" He choked out through tears, hearing them laugh, making him feel even worse.

He was quickly punched and he fell to the floor, Zack scrambling to sit on him. Travis shook his head no quickly, whimpering out, badly hurt, blood running down his cheek.

"Please, just don't hurt me anymore…!" He cried out to Zack who just grabbed him by his shirt, slapping him hard.

Travis couldn't move, limp, crying out in pain, Zack raising his fist again, making him gasp.

"Tell us how sorry you are!" He almost growled and Travis just whimpered, squeezing his eyes shut as he cried.

Zack quickly hit him again and Travis almost sobbed with pain, terrified and hurt.

"Say you're sorry!" Zack snapped and gasping out, Travis could barely whimper out the words.

"I-I-I'm s-sor-sorry! I'm sorry!"

He continued to cry with pain and Zack just slapped him hard again, getting off of him with a huff. "That's what I thought."

By this point, Travis was hurting everywhere and was in bad shape, whimpering and crying as his head hurt badly, shaking as he was sure he was beginning to lose consciousness, getting quieter.

The boys just glared down at him and sneered as they came over and picked him up, taking him to the dining room, where Travis didn't struggle, too weak to.

Sitting him down in the chair and beginning to tie him up, Travis could hardly keep his eyes open and he leaned his head back with pain, whimpering softly as he remained limp, face scrunched up with pain as he was on the brink of passing out, hurting everywhere.

Zack and Jace completely ignored his injured state, tying him to the chair and getting him gagged, to which Travis just remained still, shaking badly as he tried to keep his eyes open, whimpering faintly.

He tried to look at Zack and Jace despite his vision blurry and he thought he heard them talking but Travis couldn't hear as he felt his consciousness fading, suddenly overcome with darkness.

---

Travis blinked his eyes open slowly, starting to lift his head, awaking slowly, groaning as he quickly felt the pain returning, frowning as things starting coming back into view, trying to remember what happened.

His head hurt and he whimpered softly, remembering Zack and Jace and that was about it.

They were soon in front of him and he frowned at them, looking up with big eyes, remembering how bad they hurt him. Jace took out his gag and the two glared down at him.

"You feel sorry yet?" Zack sneered and Travis looked away, admittedly afraid of them, frowning deeply as he wished to be anywhere else but here.

"Well?" Zack huffed when he didn't answer and Travis almost whimpered, feeling terrible.

"I-I-I g-guess…"

"You guess?" Zack sneered crudely, scowling down at him. "No no, you guess you're sorry isn't going to work for us, pal. You have to actually be sorry."

"Say you're sorry, Travis." Jace huffed and Travis just frowned, feeling like crying.

"I-I didn't even do anything wrong," He whimpered and heard Zack snarl, getting punched hard, making him cry out, hanging his head in pain, Zack yelling.

"Say it!"

Travis whimpered aloud, trying not to cry. "Okay, okay, i-I'm sorry! I won't do it again!"

"Damn right you won't." Zack huffed, glancing at Jace who was watching Travis with narrowed eyes, neither one of them sympathetic.

"P-Please, ev-everything hurts, you-you gotta let me go…." Travis whimpered out in a pleading voice, trying to pull at the rope around his wrists but he was too weak to, feeling so bad he didn't even want to move.

"Nice try," Zack snorted and before Travis could protest, they gagged him again, turning to leave, making him cry out despite his whimpers now muffled.

"Rest a little longer, why don't you?" Zack laughed and Travis sniffled, left alone again with the worst pain possible, both pained and frightened and it couldn't hurt more.

---

Later, after Travis had suffered hours of being stuck with two lunatics who loved to hurt him, being forced to listen to them, forced to be fed by them, forced to look at them every time they came to torment him, once again he was taken to the couch with Zack, already dreading this.

He could not go through this again and he tried to get away but couldn't, panicking as he whimpered and teared up, frowning deeply as he shook his head no.

"Zack, Zack, please no, not again, please…."

"Oh come on, we had so much fun the first time…" Zack grinned, his hands already on him, Travis pulling to get away but Zack didn't stop, Travis soon crying, reliving the nightmare all over again, traumatizing him further.

He didn't know if it was worse the first time or the second but regardless, he hated it, crying through every moment, praying Zack would just leave already, leave forever.

"St-Stop, just stop! Please!"

Zack, who was groping him with both hands this time, just scoffed, grinning. "Oh Travis, don't you understand? You deserve this."

Travis sniffled, trying to struggle, though it was pointless as Zack wouldn't let him up and he was getting weaker and weaker. "J-Just leave me alone…." He whimpered and Zack chuckled.

"You want to know why you deserve this? It all goes back to Michael, I mean fate must have took your husband away from you for a reason…."

Travis quickly frowned, tensing despite Zack already groping him harshly, eyebrows furrowing as he struggled. "Wh-what's that supposed to m-mean?"

"Well come on, you ever thought that this is the way it's supposed to be? I mean, nobody cares about you already."

"Y-You're-You're lying…." Travis sniffled, whimpering, thinking of his friends, remembering the day he nearly died at the skyscraper, knowing that Warren was pained to leave him behind and how everyone came to see him as soon as they could after he was out of surgery, they all cared. Zack's hand ran over the scar on his chest, further reminding him of his near-death experience, flinching.

"What, so you do have friends? Well if so then where are they? Why aren't they here to rescue you, then? Hmm?"

Travis frowned deeply, his thoughts racing, shaking his head no, whimpering as the hands continued to grope him. "St-stop…."

"Well it's the truth, right? You know they might act like your friends but that doesn't mean they care." Zack smirked, trying to get into Travis's head, wanting to mess with his thoughts, knowing he was vulnerable.

"They-They-They care…." Travis stammered, frowning with big eyes.

"Do they though? I mean after all, you've already lost Michael and surely you feel guilty because of it, right?"

Travis didn't answer, wide-eyed as he thought hard, struggling mentally, hardly noticing that Zack was slowly stopping, frowning deeply.

"You don't think you are at fault for your husband's death? That perhaps it should've been you who died instead of him?"

"Of-Of course I think that…." Travis stated lowly, frowning deeply, crying silently. "There's not a day that goes by where I think it should've been me who died instead of Michael, that he should've been the one to live, not me. He could've lived a happy life just fine without me. He was always the strong one."

"Exactly." Zack grinned, his hands resting still on Travis's shoulders. "So that is one of the reasons why you deserve this, that nobody cares about you, that you don't matter. So just let it happen…."

Travis sat still, eyebrows furrowed as he thought hard, frowning deeply as he tried to tell himself Zack was wrong, knowing he was wrong, but yet, he had trouble convincing himself. It didn't help that his thoughts were all scrambled and his head hurt so badly either, seemingly making it worse.

But Travis knew that couldn't true, it couldn't….could it?

He kept still as he tried to think, Jace suddenly coming in, Zack greeting him, letting him take Travis to have his turn with him, not bothering to ask Travis of course, who frowned at the new set of arms around him, Jace sitting him upright upon his lap.

Travis realized it was about to happen all over again and he shook his head no with a sad whimper, attempting to pull away though he was extremely tired and in pain, Jace not letting him go anyways.

He quickly began to cry again as the hands went all over him, whimpering, though luckily Jace wasn't nearly as harsh as Zack, his hands nowhere near as rough.

And Travis quickly found out that instead of endlessly groping his body, Jace loved to pet his hair, that he was running his hands through his hair more than he was over Travis's chest, keeping his head still best as he could. Travis flinched through tears, hair getting petted constantly, trembling as he sniffled and cried, hating every second of it.

"S-St-Stop….."

Jace's hand slid over his mouth to quiet him, his other hand running smoothly over Travis's chest. "Shhhh, you're okay….I'm not hurting you…." Jace hushed quietly into his ear, his calm, fake-caring voice scaring him further.

Zack was watching with a grin, sitting right next to them, making Travis feel even worse. "Hey Jace," He spoke up. "You don't think Travis has friends do you?"

Jace scoffed, holding Travis still as he tried to squirm weakly, quickly going still as he didn't have the strength to fight, whimpering sadly.

"Of course not. He's got us though." He grinned and leaned down to kiss Travis on the cheek, Travis quickly flinching away with a cry, sniffling as he trembled, wanting him to stop.

Zack smirked. "Heh, right, and nobody cares about him, right?"

Jace glanced at him, knowing Travis was listening, smirking. "Of course not."

"Exactly. And he deserves to suffer, yes?"

"Definitely."

Travis was indeed listening and he hung his head with a deep frown, sniffling sadly, slowly shaking his head no, not wanting to believe them. But what if they were right?

He whimpered quietly as Jace's hand ran through his hair roughly, letting out a soft cry, wanting them to just stop and leave him alone.

Jace's hands then quit and Travis was beyond relieved to be pushed off of his lap, trembling as it still felt like hands were on him, sniffling.

"And now time for the kissing," Jace grinned and Travis frowned and leaned away from him but Jace grabbed his face nonetheless, pulling him close as he began to kiss him roughly.

Travis quickly cried out and tried to pull away, refusing to kiss him back but Jace just kept kissing him, holding him still, moaning every now and then as he wouldn't stop kissing.

Travis cried and whimpered, hearing Zack laughing beside them, sobbing out when Jace pulled away to kiss at Travis's neck instead, kissing everywhere on his face.

"Z-Zack, Zack, please, make him stop!" He cried with a desperate look, flinching, squeaking every time Jace kissed him, shaking.

Zack laughed. "I can't help you….the only people who could actually help you aren't even here. And why is that? Because they don't actually care!"

Travis whimpered at him with a frown, trying to flinch away from Jace with no success. "Th-That's not true!"

Zack didn't answer and Jace continued to kiss Travis's face, moving down his jawline, panting. "Kiss me back, Travis."

Travis's eyes went wider and he quickly shook his head no, protesting, but Jace already went back to kissing him on the mouth, kissing slowly yet roughly but Travis refused to kiss him back, sobbing.

After waiting several minutes of constant kissing and Travis still refused to comply, Jace just gave up, finally pulling away with a scowl, Travis crying hard, thinking of Michael, wanting him badly.

Jace just huffed, nodding to Zack. "Just take him." Zack grinned and grabbed Travis to pull him to his feet, Travis not even bothering to try to struggle or get away, continuing to cry, feeling completely broken, like everything had shattered.

Tears ran down his face as he was taken to his bedroom and placed on the floor, Zack tying him to the leg of the bed tightly, chuckling at him as he watched him cry.

"Just remember," He said almost slyly to him with a smirk as he got him gagged. "You deserve this."

Travis bit down on the cloth and whimpered with a sad frown as he sniffled, crying as he listened to him.

Zack ruffled his hair before leaving like he always did and when the door was closed, Travis was left to cry alone, unable to fall asleep for a long time, too distraught too.

He wanted Michael, who had never touched him or kissed him that way, never once hurting him, knowing he was the only one he'd feel safe and protected with, knowing he actually loved him.

Sure his friends cared for him too but what if they actually didn't, just like Zack said? He didn't know whether or not to believe it, hurting too badly now to able to think straight, Zack's words messing with him.

But he knew the one person he could trust was Michael and he was the one person he needed most right now but couldn't see him all because he died. But if he were alive, Travis knew he would save him.

He remembered a time when Michael had came to his rescue before, back when they were still dating. They were at the bar, Michael having gone off to talk to one of his friends, leaving Travis at the bar where a young man took the chance to come over to him, starting to flirt.

Travis told him politely that he already had a boyfriend and started to walk away when the man grabbed him by the arm tightly, pulling him close.

Travis tried to get away, doing his best to be polite but the man only got angrier and rougher, not letting him go, Travis quite frightened of him when suddenly he heard Michael.

"Hey! Get your hands off my boyfriend!" Michael stomped over and quickly pulled Travis close protectively, looking at the man furiously as Travis kept close to him.

The man sneered, glaring at Michael. "Or what?"

Michael glared and punched him angrily, knocking the man unconscious, who fell to the floor. Michael quickly turned to Travis, looking him over worriedly.

"Are you alright, are you hurt?"

Travis just looked at him with relief, feeling safe again. "I'm okay, Michael," He smiled softly, the two wrapping their arms around each other gently. "Thanks to you."

Michael just kept him close, taking him by the hand. "Come on, let's just go somewhere where you'll be safe."

Needless to say, Michael was always protective of him and looking out for him and if there was trouble, Michael was almost always the one to get him out of it, for he was the strongest and would do anything to keep Travis safe, even if it meant getting into fights or running back inside a burning building to rescue him.

Travis sniffled as he remembered him, wishing he were still alive, knowing he'd give anything to have him back again.

---

When Zack and Jace came and got him the next morning, Travis felt even more sore then before, his body hurting everywhere, not to mention it still felt like there were hands all over him still, grabbing him everywhere.

Either way, he still had to go to work. He made sure to take his time in the shower, though it didn't help much and soon he was in the car with Jace, who drove him to work and still Travis felt miserable.

He was quickly met by Vic, who rushed over upon spotting him and his badly bruised face, looking concerned.

"Oh my god, Travis! What the hell happened?"

Travis frowned at her, not feeling like talking to her now, trying to get by her. "Vic,"

"Who hit you this time?" Vic almost demanded, looking at him for an answer as she wouldn't let him past, eyebrows furrowed.

"Nobody…." Travis just sighed, looking at her tiredly.

"Nobody?! Okay, Travis that is it! You can't show up time after time and keep saying it's nobody, I'm not stupid-"

"Vic please-" Travis frowned at her.

"Who is it?" Vic just huffed, looking determined to get an answer, continuing to pry. "Come on, just tell me."

"I told you, it was nobody…." Travis just stated, trying to go past her again. "Now if you excuse me, I'd like to go eat."

Vic grabbed him by the arm to stop him and Travis frowned, quickly flinching, holding back a gasp.

"No Travis, just tell me," She insisted. "I'm your best friend, you can tell me."

"No Vic," Travis frowned, taking her hand off his arm, starting to get frustrated with her. "I'm not telling you. That's that."

"Well why won't you tell me? You're my best friend, we're supposed to tell each other everything…!"

"Well I'm not going to tell you Vic, so maybe you should stop asking." Travis almost snapped at her, frowning.

Vic looked a little hurt, frowning back. "I'm not going to-"

"Just stop it, Vic. It doesn't matter anyways so why don't you just leave me alone." He huffed with a mean look, turning to leave, suddenly angry as he remembered what Zack had said, walking out.

Vic watched him go with a frown, looking a little angry herself, not sure what to make of him, huffing. "I'm your best friend, Travis!"

Travis just shook his head as he went upstairs, frowning angrily, on edge, frustrated with how stressed out he was over everything.

After answering everyone's nosy questions about his face and who was hurting him and Travis getting scolded by Sullivan again who luckily agreed to let him be on ladder instead of reception, though he did warn him this would be the last time he let it slide, Travis had a rough day, frustrated and sore all at once, not talking much again, frowning.

Vic wouldn't talk to him and avoided him, giving him a narrow look when she would pass and Travis frowned, though he did feel guilty for having snapped at her.

After a rather easy call and they had all gotten back, they were eating a late lunch, Jack coming over to Travis by the counter, each dishing up.

"Hey man, so I met this guy at the bar last night and he seems really great, he likes cooking and books and-"

Travis frowned at him, confused. "I'm sorry Jack, what?"

"I got his number for you, told him all about you…you should really think about calling him. Oh and uh, his name is Leo by the way." Jack just continued, popping a grape in his mouth, hardly noticing Travis frowning.

"Jack, what are you talking about?"

"Well Vic told me you and Jace were in a fight and I thought it might be nice for you to meet someone new and start over."

Travis was frowning, getting upset with him. "What? No no, Jack, I don't want….you shouldn't-"

"Oh it's alright, that's what friends do, right?" Jack just smirked.

"Yeah but Jack, I didn't ask you to." Travis frowned, feeling his anger rise, a slight growl in his voice.

"Well you didn't have to, I-"

"Look Jack, you shouldn't have done that. Now can we drop it?"

"Well gee I'd thought you'd be thrilled about it," Jack just shrugged. "I really think-"

"Jack just shut up already." Travis growled, irritated.

"Well you're the one who-"

"I said enough!" Travis snapped and shoved him roughly, pushing Jack up against the fridge, growling as he grabbed him by the shirt, raising his fist to punch him.

The others rushed over to stop him, Dean grabbing Travis quickly, pulling him away, everyone hollering.

"Travis, stop!"

Travis tried to struggle angrily but quickly snapped back to reality, realizing what had happened, horrified with himself, quickly lowering his fist, looking at Jack with big eyes, immediately regretting it.

"Jack, I'm-I'm sorry…." He frowned deeply, feeling ashamed, feeling everyone's eyes on him.

Jack wasn't hurt and he just looked at him with a frown, almost looking confused, nodding. "It's alright."

Dean let go of Travis, who swallowed hard, shaking his head as he turned to leave. "Ex-Excuse me…." He hurried out, feeling mortified, unable to believe what he had done, hurrying to the turnout room, leaning up against the door when he was alone, sighing heavily.

He felt like crying, frowning deeply as he thought of Jace and Zack and how frustrated and upset he was because of them but he never wanted to be upset to the point where he nearly hurt Jack because of it.

Travis felt terrible and he tried his best to calm down, knowing he could not be this distracted at work but it didn't work, Zack and Jace still in his head even when he went to work out a little, only making him feel even more frustrated.

The rest of his shift didn't go any better and when they were on another call, Travis struggled as he helped Maya run a hose upstairs to the second floor, panting heavily as he stopped to lean against the wall once they got up there, feeling like he could collapse, his legs shaking.

Andy raised a brow at him as she and Jack gave orders to the others. "You alright?"

Travis looked up, exhaling, just nodding as he knew he had to focus and work. "Yeah, yeah, I'm fine."

They nodded and quickly worked to get the fire out, Travis leaning his body against the truck when he was out, literally exhausted, shaking everywhere, his arms feeling numb with pain they hurt so badly.

"Come on Travis," Andy called to him, not noticing the state he was in, everyone already piling into the trucks.

Travis frowned but nodded, sighing as he followed her, getting in without a word, lying his head back against the seat, glad he wasn't driving.

He ate after he got back, tired, just doing the best to get through the rest of his shift.

Vic came to him after she got back from a call with the aid car, looking serious. "Look, just talk to me okay? Clearly you are not yourself if you are snapping at me and picking fights with Jack, Travis that's not like you! I just want to make sure you're okay, alright?" She said softer, Travis sighing with a frown.

"Vic, I'm sorry about earlier, I-I was just stressed. I didn't mean to yell." He apologized sincerely, still guilty.

"And-And I am okay, I'm just….going through a really hard time right now…." He frowned, and it wasn't even like he was lying, he just wasn't telling the entire truth.

"And I can understand that but….you seeming to get into fights isn't like you. You wanna hang out after shift, maybe talk about it?"

Travis frowned, wanting to so badly, but he knew he couldn't, not wanting to get beaten to a pulp again or even worse, letting Vic get hurt.

"Sorry Vic, I can't, Jace and I have plans." He tried to sound as genuine as possible, surprising himself with how truthful he sounded.

"Oh. You two still trying to patch things up?" Vic nodded, looking at him hopefully, Travis slowly nodding. "Yeeesss."

"Well good, good. And hey, don't forget, Maya's party is after next shift."

"I know, I know, I'll be there." Travis smiled softly, Vic as well.

"Good. Better not see you with anymore bruises though." She huffed, turning to leave as she gave him a knowing look, shaking a finger at him.

Travis grinned a little but quickly frowned when she was gone, feeling that terrible, hurt feeling return, saddened, reminded once again of the hell he was living through.

---

Travis scowled when he saw Jace's car parked outside when his shift was over, going to it reluctantly with a glare, knowing he didn't have much of a choice, Jace just smirking at him with a huff when he got in.

They didn't talk the whole way, Travis just glaring ahead, trying to think of ways he could maybe try and escape tonight, stomping inside when they got to his house, scowling.

"Maya's birthday party is after next shift and I'm going." He announced with a huff, going to the kitchen to sit before the counter, Zack already there, turning to him.

"Great! You and Jace can go." He just grinned and Travis frowned, glancing at Jace who came in.

"What?"

"You and I are supposed to be together." Jace stated and Travis quickly objected.

"No way….! That-That is not happening!"

"Oh it's going to happen." Zack huffed with a look, coming over, Travis getting to his feet.

"No, I-I told everyone we've been fighting, I'm not going with Jace!"

"Yes you are." Zack almost growled, coming close to him so they were nose to nose, Zack glaring down at him with a threatening look, Travis swallowing, wishing he could make a run for the door but knowing that'd be stupid.

He frowned, angry yet saddened. "So-So you're going to torment me, even in front of my friends? Great."

"Deal with it, Travis," Zack just huffed, getting out of Travis's face. "After all, you deserve it, remember?"

Travis just scowled at him, glancing once at the door. "I'm out of here." He started to storm out, quickly regretting it when Zack grabbed him.

"Hey, hey, get back here!"

"No!" Travis hollered at him angrily, frustrated more than ever now, hurt and emotionally damaged. "I've had enough of you two! You-You're ruining my life! I can't take it anymore! I am done putting up with you both!" He shouted, ripping Zack's hand off of his arm, whipping around to leave, marching to the door.

He heard Zack yell but ignored it, suddenly getting grabbed and whirled around, a fist suddenly punching him hard, nearly toppling to the floor, Zack holding him up.

Travis yelped with pain but Zack punched him again and before he knew it, everything went black.

---

When Travis awoke, he quickly found he was already tied to the bed in his usual spot, bound and gagged and everything, neither of the boys present.

He groaned softly, his head hurting, frowning as he processed his thoughts yet again, hating how badly things were, wishing it could all just stop, not wanting this to go on much longer.

But Travis had a feeling this wouldn't be ending anytime soon….

Forced to endure a night of restless sleep, Travis was not in a good mood when morning came, already angry and miserable the second he saw Jace and Zack walk in, letting out a muffled groan to let them know it too.

Of course they just smiled at him as they untied the ropes and got him to his feet, Travis soon finding himself at the dining room table to eat breakfast, with them feeding him of course to which Travis just glared, humiliated.

His day going horribly, hating to be stuck with them and the fact that they were here in his house all the time now, Travis tried to make attempts to escape but got caught every time, resulting in him getting hit and punched everywhere of course.

The worst part of it was the fact that they actually enjoyed hurting him every chance they could get, especially Zack, who seemed like that was the only thing he ever wanted to do. That and grope Travis inappropriately when he felt like it, Travis still shuddering and crying, obviously not used to it, nor would he ever get used to it, hating every second of it and Zack himself.

Jace was just as bad though, joining Zack with the punching and groping, and it was him who did the kissing, scarring him even further, not sure if Zack's hands on him were worse or Jace's lips.

But as the day dragged on and on, Travis only felt more traumatized then he did before, getting more and more worse physically and mentally.

"Hey Travis," Zack suddenly called out to him from the kitchen, Travis looking up with a glare, tired. "Jace and I are taking you out tonight! Won't that be fun?"

Travis frowned from his chair where he was bound, still in one of his "punishments" from trying to escape. "What?"

"Yeah, get you ready for your friend's party." Zack just stated as if it were nothing, Travis scowling.

"There is no way that is happening."

"Oh it's happening," Jace strolled in with a grin, looking between them. "And if you don't wanna comply, we could just beat you up again."

Travis glared at him with narrowed eyes and sighed, wondering if that would almost be the better choice. But he didn't say anything, knowing if he got another beating he'd probably have to go to the hospital, already in bad shape as it is.

So when the boys helped him put on a blazer and tie his tie for him, Travis just glared while they laughed and though he tried to run off while they were going out the door, they each caught him and pushed him into the backseat of Jace's car, them each sitting up front.

Travis almost scowled as he sat with his arms crossed over his chest, hating them as they would just laugh and talk to each other like nothing was going on, Travis watching out the window until they got there.

Though he didn't want to be doing this, it definitely had crossed his mind that this could be the perfect time to try and make a run for it. After all, they'd be in public, surrounded by lots of people and if either one of them tried anything, Travis knew they'd get caught.

So into the restaurant he went with them, anticipation building in his chest, glancing around at all the people, swallowing hard.

Not yet….he told himself. It's gotta be the right time….

Jace tried to hold his hand as the waiter led them to their table and Travis wouldn't let him, glaring.

"We're supposed to be dating, now act like it." Jace leaned down to hiss in his ear, Travis glaring.

"Doesn't mean I have to hold your hand."

Jace frowned at him but sat down as did Zack and of course Travis was forced to sit between them, shaking his head with an angry look, wondering why the hell he had to be doing this.

At least it was a fancy enough place where everyone was dressed up and the food was great and Travis wouldn't have to worry about paying, knowing that if Zack or Jace made a move to hurt him, they'd clearly cause a scene, continuing to glance around at everybody when he wasn't staring down at his food.

"If we're supposed to be a couple, you could try talking to me and showing some interest," Jace huffed at him and Travis shot him an angry look, not answering.

Zack just laughed at them, clearly having a good time as he ate and drank, smiling as he would tell stories and lean back in his chair, Travis just glaring at him, hating him and the ugly tie he was wearing.

They were nearly halfway through their meal and Travis still hadn't tried to make a getaway, knowing he had to soon or he would miss his chance completely.

He cleared his throat to interrupt Zack, slowly standing. "I'm going to the bathroom."

Jace's hand immediately grabbed his arm. "Oh no you don't. You sit your a** back down." He growled lowly, giving a mean look.

Travis glared back, taking his hand off him. "No-"

But Jace grabbed his arm again tightly and pulled him back into his seat, gripping his arm so tightly it was painful, Travis quickly frowning, becoming scared.

"You sit back down and you stay right there," Jace growled. "We wouldn't dare let you go off alone or let you out of your sight."

Travis swallowed and tried to pull his arm away but Jace somehow managed to tighten his grip even harder, giving his arm a yank.

"Don't try anything, understood?" He stated lowly and Travis frowned, slowly nodding, suddenly discouraged again and afraid of them, feeling like he could cry.

Jace let go of him and Zack laughed loudly, Travis frowning down at his food, tense with fear, overcome with that awful feeling of hopelessness again. "I-I wanna go home…." He almost whimpered softly, wanting to be alone.

"Not until we're done," Zack just grinned, eating his steak.

"No, I-I want to go home," Travis said a little more firmly this time, looking up.

"We're staying right here." Jace stated, eyeing him, Travis suddenly standing to his feet. "No, I gotta get out of here." Jace tried to grab him as he hurried off but he missed, Travis rushing to the bathroom, panting heavily as he knew he should've ran for the door instead.

But he couldn't do it, he knew he couldn't have, he wouldn't have been able to get away from them even if he had tried.

He got into the bathroom and began pacing around back and forth, feeling like he was having a panic attack, shaking as everything in his head felt jumbled up, not knowing what he should do.

The door opened and Jace came in, looking tall and serious, Travis facing him with a panicked look, shaking.

"I don't care what you do to me, I can't take this anymore. I am not going back out there and I am not going to let you hurt me anymore!" His voice shook. "I-I'm going to put an end to this, I-I'm going to tell someone."

He started to walk towards Jace to leave but Jace suddenly grabbed him and pushed him against the wall as hard as he could, looking almost murderous, Travis suddenly afraid again as he looked up at him.

"Oh so you don't think I'll hurt you here, do you?"

He suddenly punched Travis hard in the stomach, who cried out, hunching over in pain, Jace quickly slamming him back up against the wall, glaring. "Of course I will. And if you don't think we'll keep hurting you to make you do as we say then you're wrong."

He slapped Travis hard, who whimpered in pain, wide-eyed with fear. "N-No, I-"

But Jace just backhanded him across the face, Travis crying out, whimpering as he tried to push Jace away from him, attempting to defend himself.

"St-Stop it!"

But Jace just grabbed both of his arms and shoved him against the wall again, Travis whimpering at how rough his grip was.

"You're going to listen to us and do as we say," Jace growled, glaring down at Travis without taking his eyes off of him. "And if you don't, we're going to hurt Vic, remember?"

Travis looked up fearfully, shaking his head no. "No, you can't-"

Jace shoved him up against the wall hard, the back of Travis's head hitting the wall, Travis wincing and crying out softly, stunned with a new wave of pain and fear, trembling.

"So I think I make myself quite clear when I say do you understand?" Jace huffed and Travis was so frightened and hurt he didn't know what else to do, giving a tiny nod with frightened eyes.

"Then come back out and act like my boyfriend." Jace stood there a moment but then let him go, his glare angry, mouth formed into a scowl, huffing at Travis who sniffled softly.

He then put his hand out to him and Travis eyed it with a frown, sniffling at him as he reluctantly took it, Jace quickly giving it a squeeze, offering a small nod as he turned to walk out.

Travis followed, swallowing as he tried to calm down though he was still quite scared, trying not to frown as he walked out with him, holding his hand, wondering if people were staring and really thinking they looked like a couple.

Jace led him back to their table where they each sat down, Zack looking at them expectantly, brow raised to Jace, Travis just sitting down with wide eyes, glad when Jace finally let go of his hand.

He started eating his food again without another word, his face looking almost emotionless, ignoring Zack and Jace who laughed and talked the rest of the meal, feeling like he was almost in a trance, not feeling in place.

Travis wondered if it was just the hit he took to his head or if it was just because of how numb the pain made him felt but either way, he was beginning to feel hopeless, like there really was no point in trying to get away, that he was actually stuck with these two for the rest of his life.

He just sat there, pondering all of his thoughts, feeling saddened and numb, watching Zack get out money to pay the bill, Jace getting out some to help as well.

Travis eyed the cash in his hand, still hating that Jace's betrayal in never actually loving him, using him just to get paid.

"Gee wonder where you got all that." He stated as he shot a look to Zack, who frowned a little, looking between them.

Neither answered and just payed the bill, finishing up the rest of their meal, Zack chatting as he just continued to laugh and tell stories.

Not listening to what he was saying, Travis watched him as he leaned backwards in his chair, swallowing as he slowly began to move his foot towards him under the table. He moved it towards the legs of the chair that were off the floor, holding his breath as he gave one a little nudge, making Zack's chair fall backwards, Zack falling with it to the floor.

Travis couldn't help but laugh under his breath as he watched Zack flail a little and cry out, waiters hurrying over to help him, Jace standing to his feet in concern.

Travis held back his laughter as he tried his best not to smirk as they helped Zack to his feet, enjoying himself as he watched, noticing Jace suddenly glaring down at him as he realized Travis had done it on purpose, Travis quickly frowning, looking away.

The waiters got Zack's chair up and helped him sit down, Zack just frowning with embarrassment, trying to shoo them away, huffing at them. "Yeah, yeah, sorry, it's fine, it's fine-"

Travis glanced at him with pursed lips, wondering if he knew, Zack just huffing when the waiters were gone, still looking embarrassed, adjusting his tie. "Sorry."

Travis expected Jace to say something, looking at him with wide eyes but Jace just frowned and slowly sat back down, Travis swallowing hard, looking at his plate, though he didn't feel bad for what he had done, still finding it funny.

When it was time to leave, the two of them stood and Travis frowned when Jace held out his hand to him again, giving him a knowing look, Travis swallowing as he slowly stood, taking it.

Jace squeezed it as they walked out to leave, Travis frowning as he started thinking again, suddenly remembering he hadn't gotten to escape, thinking of Jace threatening him in the bathroom, swallowing hard.

Travis had told him he was going to tell someone but he didn't think he could do that now, not after all the times they had hit him and they kept talking about hurting Vic and Travis suddenly felt miserable and saddened again, knowing he couldn't tell anyone.

He thought to what Zack had said and thought, Even if I do tell someone, would they even care? Zack said I deserve this and what if they feel the same way? Maybe I shouldn't bother trying to tell anyone….

Travis continued to frown as they got him home and allowed him to change, soon getting tied to the bed again, Travis not protesting or saying a word about anything.

He sniffled a little when they had left, feeling terrible, wanting his old life back, wanting to feel better again.

All that was happening to him was that he was getting hurt, he was crying and he was constantly thinking of Michael, missing him dearly, just…..pained. And that was an understatement.

So when he was dropped off at work the next day by Jace, of course he was awful. Especially since he knew he'd have to go to Maya's birthday party with his fake boyfriend which he was absolutely not looking forward to one bit.

As usual, he didn't talk much during shift, keeping everything to himself, Zack and Jace having given him the 'don't tell anyone or we'll beat your face in' speech again, though Zack had used more than just his words but also his fists, bloodying his knuckles which at least Travis was glad to see him get hurt for once as well.

He did tell Maya he'd be bringing Jace with to her party and Maya smiled at him happily.

"Great! Glad you guys are working things out again. Can't wait to see you both there." She chirped happily before walking out, Travis just faking a smile to her, turning away with a sad look, beginning to feel like nothing even mattered anymore, that nothing he did or said to his friends mattered, just like Zack said.

He almost wished that when he did lie to them about showing up to work with bruises that they wouldn't believe him and figure out what was really going on so at least he'd know if they really cared instead of just believing the first lie he told.

Granted, Travis knew he was partially at fault but it still hurt.

So, often Travis just worked out, ate when no one else was in the beanery and tried to do as many chores as he could, by himself.

It's not that he didn't want to be with his friends it's just….he was having a hard enough time as it is and he felt like he would crack under the pressure at any minute around them or even explode at Jack or Vic again, definitely not wanting that.

So Travis managed to get through his shift the best he could, barely, though it wasn't like he could be happy when it was over, knowing Jace was going to be at Maya's party with him, how awful it was going to be with him there, worse than last night at the restaurant.

Everyone was getting ready to leave to go to Maya's and Travis frowned when he walked out to see Jace's car, getting in quietly, Jace just smiling at him as he drove off, following the others.

"How was work?" He asked and Travis refused to look at him.

"Don't talk to me."

"Well we're going to have to talk if we want people to believe we're a couple."

Travis scowled at him. "Well maybe I don't want to pretend like you're my boyfriend just because you and Zack said so." He huffed, angry.

"Well whether you like it or not you're going to act like you love me or you'll be sorry." Jace warned lowly with a look.

"What, you'll hit me in front of my friends? Great, maybe this whole charade will end." Travis huffed and now Jace scowled.

"You just better watch yourself and don't think about trying anything. And you better hold my hand." Jace huffed and Travis just shook his head, glaring out the window, hating that he had to be there with him.

When they got to Maya's, Travis grabbed her present, Jace coming over and holding his hand, Travis frowning at him but didn't pull away, his friends coming over, them greeting Jace happily, smiling at him as if he was the greatest guy in the world, Jace just grinning back, playing his part.

Travis tried to hide his frown so his friends wouldn't notice but seeing them treat Jace so nice with smiles and friendly conversations quickly made him upset, looking away, his shoulders slumping, his mood completely shifted.

They walked inside with the others and Jace just gave his hand a squeeze, Travis frowning, already not liking this.

He tried to have fun at the party but couldn't, watching Jace talk to Jack and the guys, who treated him like they had been buddies for years, laughing and drinking with him, Jack putting his arm around him, patting him on the shoulder.

Travis frowned, saddened and pained to see his friends interacting so well with Jace, almost angry with them though he knew it wasn't their fault, they didn't know.

But how could Jace pretend to be so great that everybody liked him?

It made Travis feel almost embarrassed, overwhelmed with emotions as he frowned, not enjoying himself, wanting to be alone again.

He came to Jace slowly, who was talking to Andy and Maya, clearing his throat, trying not to look too upset.

Jace turned to him with a grin, looking quite convincing as usual. "Hey Trav, having a good time?"

"Um, actually Jace, I'm feeling tired, maybe we should just head home," He glanced at Maya and Andy, Vic suddenly coming over with a wide smile.

"Hey lovebirds! What's up?"

"Travis was just saying he wants to go home." Jace stated as Travis frowned and Vic looked to him. "Oh come on, you can't go home yet! Party's barely started!"

"Actually I-"

"You should at least try pin-the-tail on the donkey, Trav," Andy nodded, Maya grinning softly.

"Yeah Travis, you'll feel better once you start playing."

"Ten more minutes, party-pooper," Vic smirked at him. "You and Jace have to stay, we haven't even had cake yet!"

"Just a little longer honey, then we can go." Jace smiled at him softly, putting a gentle hand on his arm, Travis swallowing hard at the term honey, holding back a frown as everyone looked at him expectantly.

He faked a smile. "O-Okay, I guess a little more time wouldn't hurt…"

The girls just laughed and Travis pursed his lips, frowning when Jace pecked him on the cheek before he went off with them to play a game, Travis flinching softly, frowning with a sad look.

He went to be with Jack and the boys, trying to act as if he were having a good time but deep down he felt awful, frowning when he wasn't trying to fake a smile.

The only one who really seemed to notice was Warren, who asked if he was alright, Travis just giving his usual 'I'm fine,' excuse, wanting to go home.

Time passed and eventually Travis just snuck away to the bathroom, frowning deeply as he closed the door, looking in the mirror as he sniffled softly, trying not to cry, feeling miserable.

He hated Jace and he hated how everyone thought he was so great, loving him and he hated how he couldn't even tell them who he really is, everything seeming so messed up right now, hurting him.

Travis heard the door open and he looked over to see Jace coming in, Travis wiping at his eyes with a frown.

"You sure are a party-pooper." Jace commented and Travis shook his head. "T-Take me home."

Jace looked a little disappointed, watching him. "I will when you stop crying."

"H-How is it that they all love you? That they can't see that you're just a lying fake?" Travis sniffled with a frown, crying a little.

"Well, you never knew either." Jace smirked and Travis felt worse, his heart aching with pain, wanting to go home and cry.

He leaned onto the sink, shaking his head with furrowed eyebrows. "How can they not see that you hurt me?" He whispered, hanging his head, though Jace still heard him, coming over.

Gently he put a hand on his arm, Travis flinching, looking up at him.

"Come on, let's go."

Travis frowned and wiped at his eyes, Jace waiting patiently, taking his hand in his, walking out with him, Travis not even bothering to protest, keeping his head lowered as they went to the door.

Vic spotted them and came over, frowning when she saw how Travis looked. "You're leaving? Did something happen?"

"Travis and I just had a little argument, that's all. Besides, we've both had a long day. I think it's best we just get home and get some rest." Jace spoke for Travis, who just looked away with a frown, doing his best not to look too angry.

Vic frowned softly at them, nodding. "Oh alright. Well it was great having you here. Have a good night then."

"You too, thanks." Jace nodded softly and they both walked out quietly, Travis frowning when they got to the car, getting into the back, wiping once at his eyes though he refused to cry until they got home.

Zack just smiled when they got there, coming up to Travis with a grin as he led him to the couch, saying it was 'his turn to be with him,' quickly beginning to run his hands over Travis's body, who immediately began to cry.

He tried to struggle and get away but didn't have the energy to, hardly able to try and fight, feeling weak and hopeless, crying softly as Zack touched him everywhere, groping him harshly, his skin going red where his hands had been.

He was still crying when it was over and he had been tied to his normal spot to go to sleep, frowning deeply as he thought of Michael, still debating about what he could do to try and get himself out of this and whether or not he should do anything at all.

And even if he did tell anyone, what if they didn't even help him?

---

The next day, as if Travis thought it couldn't get any worse, Zack and Jace told him they wanted him to meet some of their friends, or more so his friends wanted to meet him, Travis assumed.

He frowned at them, protesting at the idea but of course he didn't get a say and just like last night when he had to go to the restaurant with them, now he was going to go see their friends with them.

Travis was getting more and more frustrated, wondering how much more of this he could take.

He especially didn't want to have to meet these 'friends,' not knowing anything about them, wondering whether or not these people were friendly or at least sane. But if they are friends of Jace and Zack….Travis assumed this could only end badly.

"Do I have to do this?" He sighed tiredly, frowning as they were walking up to some guy's house, Zack and Jace on either side of him, making sure he didn't run off, Travis badly wanting to.

"Of course you do!" Zack sing-songed, patting him on the shoulder, Travis flinching. "They're going to love you!"

"But what's the point?" Travis frowned, irritated, wanting to be with his own friends instead, like Jack and Dean and Maya.

"Well they wanna meet you and we want you to meet them." Jace smirked, ringing the doorbell.

Travis frowned when a tall man with blond hair opened the door, grinning at them. "Hey! This the guy?" He pointed to Travis, Zack and Jace grinning. "This is the guy!"

"Well bring him in man!"

Soon Travis was in a room full of guys who were all hot and attractive and finding out they were all gay just like him, Travis felt quite nervous, wondering what was going to happen.

All the men seemed to smile at him and made comments about him, making Travis feel a little uncomfortable, not liking all the attention on him.

"He's so cute!"

"Look at all his freckles!"

"Can I see him?"

Zack and Jace grinned, nodding. "Sure."

Travis frowned as they gently nudged him towards one of the men who smiled at him. "W-Wait, wait-"

The man grabbed him though with a smile, pulling him close, Travis cowering, looking up at him fearfully, noticing the other men coming closer also.

"Hey there, my name's Derek." The man smiled at him with his arms around him gently.

"Hey man, I wanna hold him!"

"No way, he's mine!"

Various hands were grabbing at him, trying to pull him close, Travis frowning, looking at everyone with scared eyes, trying to look at Zack and Jace for help. "S-Stop, let go of me…!"

The men just grinned at him and laughed, not taking their hands off him, Travis continuing to try to pull away.

Soon they were pulling him closer, them touching him and taking turns as they passed him around, a few kissing him, Travis whimpering at them to stop.

"Stop it!"

Jace and Zack just watched, smirking, Travis feeling like he was nothing but a prize to be passed around and won, each of these men only wanting him for his body, not even knowing him and yet here they were, all trying to grab him and kiss him.

One of the men started getting rough with him, kissing him though Travis tried to get away, the hands starting to slide down his body, just like Zack's hands would, getting inappropriate, Travis crying out.

"Whoa hey! Hey!" Zack and Jace hurried over, Zack shoving the man away angrily, Jace pulling Travis close protectively, who clung to him with a whimper before he realized it, stepping away.

"Hands off, pal." Zack growled to the man, who just laughed.

"Ooh, sorry man." He chuckled.

"I'll be nice to him," Another man grinned, taking Travis's arm gently, Travis frowning at him with a glare.

"He's definitely cuter then the last guy you pretended to be with, Jace." One commented and Travis frowned, eyebrows furrowing as he looked to Jace.

"Wait, what? What?"

Jace looked away and Zack chuckled, Travis's eyes wide.

"This-this…you've done this before? You've lied to other guys, you broke other guys' hearts before me? I-I don't believe this….how could you?" Travis frowned deeply, even more hurt and betrayed then before, looking at Jace who just frowned at him back.

"Bus-ted…" One man sing-songed, laughing with the others, Travis hating them all, scowling at the floor angrily, wondering how they could all be so heartless. "Shut up."

They ignored him and continued to pass him around, a few sitting at the couch with him and running their hands all over him and kissing him, just like Jace and Zack would, Travis whimpering, crying quietly, squirming and struggling weakly at all the strangers touching him.

Zack and Jace just continued to watch, keeping an eye on him, grinning at him, Travis shooting them dirty looks and glares, sniffling, turning his head away when a man kissed at him.

Soon enough, the hands began to get rougher and Travis was getting touched again, one man holding him by his chest and kissing at his face, another running his hands below Travis's waist, Travis crying out as he kicked and squirmed, whimpering when it became too inappropriate again.

"Hey!" Zack and Jace came hurrying over again, ripping the guys off him, Zack punching the guy touching Travis away harshly, Jace pulling Travis close to his chest, who cried, Jace glaring down at them.

"We're out of here."

They turned to leave and Travis went with them, not looking back.

"Well you two just want him all to yourselves now don't you?" One man called out and Zack looked back. "Shut up, Dale!"

Travis shuddered, still feeling hands all over him, trembling, going out to the car with them hurriedly, still traumatized. "Th-That was humiliating…"

Jace looked him over before he could get in, frowning down at him with a concerned look. "Are you hurt?"

Travis shot him a mean look and just went past him, getting into the back where he sniffled, wanting Michael badly.

Zack scowled as he drove off. "I told them not to get handsy with him," He huffed to Jace who shook his head.

"Screw those guys. This was your idea and Travis almost got hurt because of it."

"Well he's fine," Zack just stated, glancing back once at Travis who looked down at the floor, trembling. "They didn't do anything worse to him than what we've done."

"Well if they ask to see him again, tell them no. If we weren't there to stop 'em who knows what they would've done to him." Jace huffed and Zack just scoffed, driving them home.

Travis felt awful by the time they walked inside, wanting to go curl up in bed, or at least take a nice warm shower. But Zack took him by the arm, starting to lead him to the couch.

Travis pulled at him, knowing what he wanted to do, frowning. "No. I want to go lie down, Zack."

"Well then you can lie down with me here on the couch." Zack smirked, not letting him go.

"No!" Travis pulled with a frown. "Let go of me!"

"Zack, maybe you shouldn't after all those guys touched him…" Jace said softly, watching.

"Shut up, Jace," Zack huffed at him, fed up with Travis's struggling, pulling him close to his chest forcefully, dragging him to the couch despite Travis's squirming, sitting him down on the couch roughly.

Travis quickly protested and made to get away, not wanting to deal with this right now. "No Zack! Let go of me!"

"Hey, you stay right there!" Zack growled at him, pushing him back down with a mean look, his hand gripping his shirt tightly. "You're not going anywhere."

"No, I want to-"

"I don't care!" Zack snapped, slapping him hard. "It's my turn with you so just shut up!"

Travis whimpered in pain, frowning deeply as his eyes got teary, scared again, going still.

"Now put your arms behind your back." Zack ordered as he grabbed the rope from nearby, Jace watching them.

"Zack-"

"Shut up, Jace!" Zack snapped, watching Travis who slowly put his arms back with a sniffle, hanging his head with a sad look, frowning deeply as Zack began to tie his hands together.

"Thatta boy…." He grinned, tying the rope as tightly as he possibly could like he always did, Travis wincing as it already hurt badly, frowning as his ankles got tied as well, wishing he could try and escape but he knew he didn't have the strength to, nor did he feel like he even could, seeing as it was becoming quite pointless.

Zack grinned as he pulled out a handkerchief from his pocket, holding it up to him. "Open."

Travis frowned at him and slowly shook his head no with big eyes, holding back a sniffle. "N-No…"

"Come on, just open." Zack huffed, waiting but still Travis refused, turning his head away.

"Open your damn mouth!" Zack suddenly snarled and slapped him, Travis whimpering in pain, a few tears escaping him as he opened his mouth reluctantly, Zack gagging him.

Travis sniffled as he then sat down next to him, slowly pulling him into his lap. "Now come here…."

Travis frowned but couldn't struggle, glancing at Jace with a pleading look who just rolled his eyes with a scowl, marching out, apparently not wanting to watch.

Zack's hand quickly slid over Travis's mouth, pressing his head back against his shoulder, keeping him propped upright against his chest, Travis whimpering as he did not want to be touched again, already having been touched roughly today by multiple men whom he didn't even know.

"Shhh, we're just gonna watch Tv for awhile," Zack grinned as he picked up the remote and turned on the tv, not touching him yet but keeping him there, Travis frowning deeply as he hated sitting on his lap, wishing he'd let go of him.

He looked at the tv with a dull, sad look but didn't watch, frowning as he thought of his friends and Michael, wishing he could be with them instead.

Zack wasn't touching him as they sat there and watched but he soon got bored and slowly started sliding his hands over Travis's body anyways, Travis immediately whimpering with a weak squirm.

Zack just chuckled into his ear quietly and sure enough, Travis was being groped all over again and Zack being the worst with how rough he was, he was soon sobbing, flinching every time Zack squeezed him too hard, trembling everywhere.

Zack laughed at him as his hands went all over, underneath Travis's shirt, rubbing and squeezing his skin everywhere, being completely careless with him, Travis's skin going red as Zack was as rough as he could possibly be with him, Travis crying with pain, frightened, wanting it to stop.

And Zack just wouldn't stop, it seeming to go on for forever.

Then Jace came in and he grinned at him, his hand running over Travis's stomach smoothly. "Ah Jace, come help me with him buddy, we can both have a turn with him."

Travis whimpered and Jace seemed to hesitate, slowly coming over. "I dunno, Zack, he's had a rough day as it is, you really wanna do this now?"

"Just shut up and come over here." Zack huffed, sliding Travis off his lap, who frowned when Jace finally did come over.

He sat down and Travis frowned when they each grabbed at him, whimpering as they would take turns with him, Travis sniffling and crying out at them softly to try to get them stop but of course they didn't listen and only continued, not stopping until it was time to put him to bed.

Travis just glared at them as they got him into his normal spot, shaking his head with narrowed eyes, hating them though he was partially angry at himself, wishing he could be more brave and defensive so he could at least fight them back or at least get away.

But Travis was afraid of them and he wasn't a mean person, besides the fact that if he did fight back they would only beat him up again, and he just couldn't stand up to them, at least not by himself.

If Michael were here he could but if Michael were here this wouldn't even be happening in the first place.

Travis frowned deeply as he tried to get to sleep, though it took quite a long time and he could only hope that tomorrow would be a better day, knowing he'd at least be back at work again.

---

Unfortunately as Travis walked into the station the next morning, he was in a terrible mood, feeling frustrated and sour, his stress over Zack and Jace getting to him, feeling like he hated everything, angry.

Avoiding talking to any of the others, not bothering to go to the beanery to eat breakfast with them, Travis went to go work-out alone after line-up, feeling like that was the only way to try and relieve his stress, scowling as he lifted weights and did about every exercise technique possible, not stopping even when he got tired.

Soon he was panting and sweating as he kept at it, his body getting sore and tired, limbs starting to shake but Travis hardly noticed, only thinking about how angry he was, muttering about Jace and Zack under his breath as didn't stop working out, staying in there a long time.

He finally quit when his legs shook and hurt badly and he was practically wheezing to breathe, his body sore to the point where it hurt, Travis's head spinning a little, huffing as he walked out, his sides hurting, chest heaving.

He knew he should probably shower but he found himself going towards the barn first, figuring he should at least check out what chores were getting done so he'd know what he needed to do when he got to them.

Frowning as he marched into the barn, spotting a few of the others, his head suddenly started pounding badly and he quickly felt dizzy, frowning as he shook his head and tried to keep walking, his legs suddenly starting to buckle underneath him.

Panting heavily, Travis swallowed hard and tried to keep going but he felt like he was going to throw up, slowing down as he started to sway on his feet, his vision going blurry and he could feel himself began to fall.

He let out a soft whimper as his eyes rolled back and he collapsed directly to the floor, unconscious.

The others saw him fall and quickly gasped, hurrying over.

"Travis!"

Andy felt for his pulse and Maya grabbed gently at Travis's chin, shaking his shoulders gently, everyone frowning.

"What was he doing, running a marathon?"

"He's pale, maybe he's just sick…" Warren mused, helping the others look him over, Travis not moving, laying limp, his mouth hung open a little, face white though his bruises were still as purple as ever.

"He didn't look sick earlier…."

Vic came wandering in then, rushing over when she saw Travis. "Oh my god, what happened?!"

Andy frowned as Maya checked the back of Travis's head, Warren feeling his forehead as well.

"He's dehydrated, he's going to need water," Andy rushed. "On it," Vic already turned to run off, hurrying to fetch some.

"His forehead's a little warm too…." Warren stated, each still tending to him though Travis still didn't wake up.

"Wasn't he just in the workout room? Maybe he passed out from that…"

"Why would that happen though, Travis wouldn't overwork himself to that point."

Vic came back with the water then and Travis began to stir, shaking his head a little with a groan as his eyes fluttered open. "Ugh, wh-what?"

He started to sit up slowly as he put a hand to his head, everyone watching him. "What happened?" He blinked, still dazed.

"Drink this," Vic handed him the water to which Travis frowned but took it.

"You passed out, Travis," Andy said softly.

Travis frowned. "I-I did? I-I'm sorry…"

"How do you feel buddy?" Warren asked softly and Travis frowned as he held his head. "My head hurts….I-I don't feel very well…." He closed his eyes in pain and everyone could tell, Warren spotting him trembling.

Vic put a gentle hand on his shoulder and Travis flinched, looking up at her with big eyes, frowning. "Come on, let's get you to a bunk room, you need to rest."

"B-But what about work?" Travis frowned at her as they began to help him stand, flinching at all the hands on him, shuddering as he thought of Jace and Zack, holding back a whimper.

"Don't worry about that, I'll tell Sullivan what happened, just come with me…" Vic said softly, an arm around him gently, keeping him close, Travis frowning deeply, feeling sick.

"Don't worry guys, I got him…" Vic led him to one of the bunk rooms, her touch gentle and caring as she helped him lie down, Travis grateful for her to be helping him, shaking as he felt awful, groaning softly when he was on his back.

Vic frowned down at him with concern, sitting on the edge of the bed, feeling his forehead gently. "You definitely don't look well….what happened? You seemed fine this morning…"

Travis winced as his head pounded and spun with pain, his body still trembling, most of his limbs still feeling numb and sore. "I-I guess I just overdid it with the weights and stuff…" He murmured, Vic frowning at him.

"What? Travis why would you do that to yourself? Did you even eat anything, I never saw you for breakfast…."

Travis slowly shook his head no, Vic's concern for him growing as she continued to frown. "Travis, that's not like you, you know better than that….you should've at least known to drink some water."

"S-Sorry," Travis frowned as he closed his eyes, his head hurting badly, feeling like he could cry, whimpering softly as he felt terrible.

Vic frowned down at him, rubbing a thumb over his hand softly. "You need more water, I'll go get you some. Do you want me to bring you some soup too?"

Travis just frowned. "I don't think I could keep any down right now…."

Vic frowned but nodded, getting up. "Alright. I'll be right back, okay?"

Travis watched her go as she closed the door, frowning deeply as he exhaled, it hurting everywhere, knowing it was his overworked body that was making him feel so bad. He realized he must've really overdone it, shaking and trembling as he tried to ignore his pounding head.

He tried to wait for Vic to come back but she was taking too long and he soon found himself fast asleep, more exhausted and sore than ever, his body badly needing the rest.

When he awoke, he spotted Vic sitting in a chair nearby, looking up from her book when she saw him stirring. "Hey….how you feeling?"

Travis shifted a little, still sore and feeling sick. "Little better I guess. How long was I asleep?"

"Long time. I even went out on aid car and you were still asleep when I got back." Vic nodded, watching him. "But it's okay, I talked to Sullivan and you get the rest of this shift off."

She moved her chair closer to him, handing him a glass of water. "Here." Travis took it, drinking some.

"And I called Jace, he's going to be here soon."

Travis looked up, frowning. "You-You called Jace?" He felt his body tense up, not liking the feeling.

Vic just nodded. "Should I not have?"

Travis swallowed and looked away with a frown. "No no, I-it's fine, i'm-i'm glad you did…." He almost sighed quietly, a wave of sadness washing over him.

Vic noticed, but thought it was just because he was tired, pursing her lips together. "Okay well, I should let you rest some more. I'll come get you when he's here." She had already walked out before he could answer, Travis sighing loudly, closing his eyes with a sad frown, holding back tears.

The last person he wanted to see right now was Jace….

---

A little while later, Vic came and woke him up again gently, Travis frowning as she took his hand and walked him out towards reception where Jace was waiting.

Travis just frowned with a sad look on his face when Jace frowned at him with concern, putting a hand to his forehead. "Are you alright?"

Travis didn't answer and Vic just spoke for him. "He's probably going to sleep more and make sure he drinks lots of water and eats. He still hasn't eaten anything today."

Jace looked at her and nodded, taking Travis's hand in his, who frowned but didn't protest.

"Okay, thanks Vic. I'll take care of him, don't worry."

Vic nodded with a faint smile, who then hugged Travis gently. "You feel better okay? Maybe I could come and check on you after shift."

Travis frowned at the hug, looking at her with sad eyes, just shrugging. "Heh, maybe…." He fibbed, knowing it wasn't going to happen.

He then turned to leave, ignoring Jace who said goodbye to Vic, frowning as he walked out, not wanting to go with him.

"You sure you're alright?" Jace asked lowly and Travis scowled, angered.

"I'm fine, damn it." He growled, getting into the back of his car, glaring out the window as he leaned his head up against it, still feeling horrible and tired, nearly falling asleep again before they even got home.

Travis frowned deeply as they got out to go inside, Travis expecting the worst from Jace, assuming he'd want to do something awful to him.

But as they were walking in, Jace didn't say anything and Travis frowned, watching the floor.

"Can I go lie down?" He said quietly, half expecting Jace to punch him at any moment.

"I will if you promise not to try and escape." Jace huffed and Travis just frowned, eyes narrowing. "Trust me, I wouldn't dare try and escape. Not on your damn watch." He growled, going to his room, slamming the door shut, exhaling when he was alone, quickly going to his bed to lie down.

It was the first time he had been able to lie down in his own bed for days and Travis felt relieved to lie there in his bed, his bed, for once feeling comfortable and at rest.

And still very tired, he quickly fell asleep, sleeping soundly for a long time, almost saddened when he awoke, feeling like he could sleep for days.

He lay awake for awhile, staring up at the ceiling, wondering what he should do, knowing he couldn't stay in his room forever no matter how badly he wanted to.

Eventually he'd have to go out there and face Jace. He waited a little longer though first, finally coming out slowly.

Jace stood when he saw him. "Oh good, you're awake. How you feeling?"

Travis just frowned at him, shrugging. "A little better."

"You want some soup? I'll get you some…."

"No. I don't want your damn soup." He growled, glaring, frustrated.

"Well you got to eat something." Jace gave him a look, shrugging.

"Says who? You?"

"Um, yeah."

"Well, maybe I don't want to listen to you anymore." Travis huffed, glaring.

"What's that supposed to mean?" Jace huffed back, starting to look mad himself.

"I'm done. I am done listening to you. I'm done with all of this." Travis growled, angry, his frustration bursting. "I want my life back! I'm not going to put up within crap any longer!"

"You watch yourself now," Jace warned with a growl. "You be careful."

"Or what?" Travis snapped. "You'll just hurt me? You're never going to hurt me again. You hear that? You hear what I'm saying? You cannot hurt me again."

"We'll see about that, shall we?" Jace huffed with a mean look, coming towards him, Travis reacting quickly, reaching behind him to grab something to help defend himself.

He felt his hand wrap around the neck of a beer bottle, swinging it before he had time to think, hitting Jace in the head, the glass shattering, Jace crying out as he hit the floor.

He held his now bleeding head, yelling in pain as he lay crumpled on the floor, Travis staring down wide-eyed with an open mouth, amazed he had actually hurt him.

"Ah, Travis! Travis, help!" Jace winced, blood running down the side of his face, attempting to get up, Travis slowly backing away, beginning to grin.

He immediately started for the door, hurrying to leave, relief washing him over, suddenly happy, knowing this was his chance to get away.

"Travis, Travis, please! Travis, help me, please!"

He got to the door and opened it but slowly froze as he listened, the door halfway open, Travis motionless as his smile disappeared.

He slowly glanced over, looking down at Jace who lay bleeding upon the floor, gasping and wincing with pain, Travis's eyes wide as he stared a minute, swallowing hard as he slowly closed the door.

He didn't want to, but even he knew he couldn't just leave him like that, not when Jace was hurt and it was Travis's job to help the sick and hurt, and he was the one who had hurt him…..

Frowning, Travis came over, shaking his head as he helped Jace to his back. "Alright just keep still, I'll help you, I'll help…"

He cleaned up the blood and got the shards of glass out of his face, frowning down at him as Jace watched him closely, looking a little surprised.

"T-Thank you…" He murmured when he had finished patching him up and Travis just gave a nod, cleaning up the rest of the glass from the floor.

"And sorry I hit you." He muttered, eyes downcast.

"I deserved it." Jace stated, making Travis frown at him, swallowing as he wondered if he should try and leave again, glancing at the door.

"Go ahead. I-I trust you. I won't tell Zack about any of it." Jace stated and Travis's eyes widened, frowning.

"Just come back after tomorrow, okay?" Jace watched him and Travis slowly nodded with big eyes, already backing towards the door.

He hurried out before anyone else could say anything, exhaling when he stepped outside, realizing he had been holding his breath, suddenly smiling.

He quickly went back to work, not sure of where else he would go, glad to see his friends again, who raised a brow at him quizzatively.

Vic raised a brow at him as he came up and hugged her. "Wha-? Travis, aren't you still sick?"

Travis just pulled away, grinning.

"Well you must be feeling better if you're smiling like that," Vic mused, shaking her head a little. "Seriously though, did you come back to work? Are you well enough?"

"I think as long as I eat something, I will be." Travis nodded, nodding again, almost bouncing on his feet, still energized from the sudden gratitude of happiness.

"Well, okay. Glad to have you back." Vic smirked, giving him a small punch on the shoulder. "I'll eat with you, okay?"

So after a good, large meal, Travis stayed and worked, thankful he didn't have to worry about Zack or Jace for once, grateful and for the first time in a while, happy.

He asked to spend the night at Vic's house after shift but she told him she had other plans, so he asked Jack and Dean instead, who agreed.

Travis was just glad when he could check his phone and there wouldn't be a hundred texts from Jace or Zack, having heard nothing from them, feeling absolutely relieved that he could finally get a break from them and spend time with his friends again.

He was at the houseboat with Dean and Jack after shift, thinking nothing else could go wrong when his phone suddenly rang.

He thought it might be Jace or Zack calling him, making him tense, but when he looked, he saw it was Vic, relaxing.

"Hey Vic."

"Hey Travis. Listen, there's some weird guy here at my doorstep who's acting kinda creepy and he says he knows you and wants to come inside but there's no way I'm letting him in here unless you tell me who he is…."

Travis's eyes went wide, feeling his heart stop, holding his breath as he went rigid. "Wh-What's his name?"

"Um, Zack?"

Travis nearly dropped the phone, horrified.