Jay put on his tourney equipment in the locker room. He had been looking forward to this match against the Sherwood Forest Falcons for months. The last few days he had been practicing every single hour of the day. But when the moment was there Jay wasn't even thinking about the game. He secretly scanned his eyes over all his teammates, since it felt like they were all glaring at him. In reality it was only Chad who actually had his eyes on him. Jay tried to ignore it, reminding himself it was far more important to win this tourney match.
Jay knew he had to prove himself. He had to shine on the tourney field, so it would be more likely that Little John, the Falcons trainer, would recruit him for their team when Jay applied for the university in Sherwood. He had to prove he was good enough if he ever wanted to join the professional tourney team. There were no distractions allowed this evening. Still Jay couldn't stop thinking about Chad for some reason. He shouldn't care that Chad knew about him and Gil, but somehow he did. Jay felt even more uneased when he noticed Chad walked up to him and sat beside him on the bench.
"You look tense, Jay," he started the conversation.
"Well, big match coming up," Jay answered casually. He tried to hide his discomfort behind a confident smile, but the grin on Chad's face told him it was in vain. Chad moved in closer to him, looking over to the other teammates in the locker room.
"Just so you know, I haven't told anyone yet," Chad softly spoke to Jay. Jay crunched his teeth. He wasn't sure if he should be happy about it or not.
"I'm not sure what shocks me more," Chad continued. "The fact that it is Gaston's son or that it is a guy."
"I don't care what you think, Chad," Jay said back. Jay wished his words were true, but he still looked around, making sure no one overheard their conversation.
"Why did you never tell us you were gay?" Chad suddenly asked straight up. Jay turned towards Chad and just looked at him for a moment, unwilling to answer the question. It was none of his damn business to begin with.
"Alright team, time to hit the field!" Jay was glad to be saved by coach Jenkins who was calling for his team. Jay grabbed his tourney stick and as team captain lead his teammates towards the field. He was ready for this battle, even though he could feel Chad's breath in his neck. Jay saw how all the other boys nodded at him and some gave him a pat on the back. They trusted him. Jay had brought them victory before and he would do so again.
They walked outside and entered the field. "We count on you," one of the defenders said to Jay just before he left for one of the cheerleaders. He kissed his girlfriend in front of the crowd and suddenly Jay could feel a little sting. For a moment he wished he could kiss Gil like that as well. Without a care in world, even though hundreds of eyes would be watching them.
"If they only knew," Chad suddenly said beside him. A laughter escaped Chad and Jay send him a death glare. He then quickly turned away from Chad and forced a smile on his face. He walked towards the cheerleaders who were already calling his name, their blue and golden pom poms waving in the air.
Gil stood beside Carlos in the middle of the cheering crowd. He saw how Jay mended in in the groups of enthusiastic girls. They hang over him, all trying to get his attention with fluttering words. Jay played along, rewarding their praises with a smile. He waved back at the girls who stood to far away, as he made sure all the girls got some attention from him.
"Don't worry about the girls," Carlos said, raising his voice so Gil could hear him. He assumed Gil wouldn't be too happy to see his boyfriend getting all this attention. "This always happens before and after an important game. Jay is just playing along."
"It's alright," Gil said and Carlos was relieved to see Gil still smiled. Just like Jay he had been looking forward to this game for weeks. It was the first big tourney game Gil would experience and he was impressed by everything that was happening.
"They know they can't win without him, so of course they like him," Gil said smiling, while he kept his eyes fixed on Jay. Gil then saw how Jay let his eyes glide over all the people on the tribune, searching for that one person.
It didn't take long before he saw Gil standing out in the crowd and he raised his tourney stick up to him. Even from that distance Jay could see how Gil smiled to him and gave him two thumps up. All the cheering girls disappeared in the background and even Chad didn't matter anymore. A firm hand suddenly grabbed his shoulder and Jay was annoyed when he noticed it was Chad once more.
"No funny business during the game," Chad warned him. "My dad is here today. I need to make him proud." Jay shook the hand of his shoulder and turned towards the rest of the team.
"We are going to win this thing!" he shouted to all of them. All his teammates cheered with their captain, raising their tourney sticks in the air. Jay nodded towards Chad, just before he put his helmet on and took his position on the field. He didn't like Chad at all, but he knew he could rely on the guy during a match. He wanted to win just as badly as he did as they both waited impatiently for the starting signal.
The match didn't start as planned, since the Falcons scored the first goal. Jay cursed to himself as he saw the ball flying past their goalie into the net. Jay still praised his team, making sure none of them felt discouraged. He made a strong stand on the field, determined to receive the Long Ball from their goalie. Jay saw the ball flying his way and he ran towards it, catching it with his tourney stick. He wanted to turn around, making an attempt of the opposing goal. Too late he saw the green and yellow figure running his way and before Jay had any change to react the figure ran into him and knocked him onto the ground. For a split second Jay was disorientated. It didn't happen too often that he was knocked down, even though it was a common practice of the sport.
Jay could hear the girls encouraging him from the side line, but he didn't even bother to look at them. He send a quick glance at the crowd on the tribunes, right to the spot where he had seen Gil earlier. He was still there, calling his name as well. It was like Jay could hear his voice above all others when he stood up and started chasing the bastard that had knocked him down. He and Gil had been practicing the entire time last day. When the sun was setting Gil told him he was sure Jay would bring their team to victory. There was no doubt in his mind. Jay seemed to fly over the field and saw how one of his teammates tackled the opponent. It had been Chad, who quickly kicked the ball towards Jay since he lay on the ground on top of the opponent.
Jay noticed he wasn't the only one going for the ball, since a green/yellow flash moved towards him once more. Jay made a quick somersault, making his opponent trip over his body and also grabbing the ball from the ground. Jay quickly stood back on his feet again and ran towards the opposing net. Opponents were closing in on him as the net came nearer. Jay quickly noticed one of his teammates who would have a clear shot on the net. Jay send the ball flying over his opponents to his teammate. With an accurate sweep his teammate hit the ball towards the net and resulted in the first goal for the Fighting Knights.
The blue golden crowd jumped up and screamed like there was no tomorrow. Jay could swear once more that he could hear Gil's voice above all others. Without looking up he could see him standing proudly in the middle of the crowd. Jay could feel a rush of adrenaline through his body. He swore to himself this would be a match Gil would never forget.
Too soon the sound of the whistle was to be heard, signing the end of the tourney match. A quick glance towards the scoring board told Jay what he already knew; they had won. After they made it a tie, the Fighting Knights scored two more times, resulting in an end score of 3-1.
Jay was pleased with himself, since he made the last goal and two assists. He had showed what he was capable off and he could see his teammates circling around him. They jumped on each other's shoulders, shouting loudly and celebrating their victory. Jay took the helmet from his head and stood eye to eye with Chad again. Chad smiled euphorically, while his hair stuck was to his forehead due to the sweat. He walked up to Jay and laid an arm around his shoulder.
"You were great," Chad complimented Jay loudly. Jay could even tell it was an honest compliment. "You know, the team might even forgive you for dating that Gaston guy after this." Jay even had to laugh at the remark and he already shook his head.
"Save it, Chad," Jay simple responded, even though he still smiled back at him. His attention was with his other teammates, who were greeting their girlfriends and celebrated their victory with another kiss. Jay wasn't even listening to Chad anymore. He patted Chad on his shoulder, causing the other guy to flinch in pain a little.
"You played great as well," Jay simply complimented before he walked away.
He let his eyes scan the tribunes yet again, but the guy he was looking for wasn't on the same spot anymore. It felt like he could still hear his voice calling out for him. Through all the noise of the cheering girls, the loud trumpets and the shouting guys around him he could still hear that voice, saying that he believed in him. Through the flashes of blue and gold Jay could already see his joyful smile and gentle eyes.
It didn't take long before Jay had actually found him, standing in the middle of the crowd. Jay could see that Gil had been waiting for him, standing in the front row with Carlos at his side. Jay walked passed the cheerleaders, who still tried to get his attention. He even walked straight pass his coach, who actually wanted to tell him how proud he was. Jay dropped his helmet and tourney stick on the ground and took a short sprint towards the person he wanted the most.
It might have been the happiness from winning the match or still the rush and excitement of playing. Maybe it was just because Jay was done with being pushed down. Or maybe it was just those hazel eyes that encouraged him once more. Jay didn't hesitate anymore when he jumped in Gil's arms and wrapped his legs around Gil's waist.
Gil had caught him, of course. Gil would never let him fall. Always hold him tight when he needed it. And when he didn't need it, Gil probably would still hold him just because he wanted to. Jay could feel Gil's strong hands on his lower back as he smiled down on him. Their faces were very close together, since Jay had his arms wrapped around Gil's neck and looked into those bright hazel eyes. Gil didn't even need to say he was proud or happy, his eyes told Jay everything he needed to know. Jay bend even closer and for a moment didn't care how many people were watching when he placed a kiss on Gil's mouth. His fingers tangled in the blond hair, his nose stroking the pale skin. Jay had fallen in love with this guy. It didn't matter whose son he was, he had fallen in love with him.
Jay opened his eyes again when their lips parted. Gil still smiled up to him. He had never cared about who might've been watching. He carefully put Jay back on the ground and quickly kissed him again. This time he was able to gently touch Jay's cheek. Jay slowly became aware of all the people staring at them. Jay shook his head and grabbed Gil's hand. They walked up towards Carlos, who had been looking at them as well. Carlos just slightly raised his eyes. He had decided not to say anything about it, even though the huge smile on his face gave away how he felt.
"Great game," Carlos complimented Jay. "Told you that you guys don't need me to win." Jay laughed back at him, secretly grateful that Carlos didn't mention what just occurred.
"Couldn't have done it without you helping me practice," Jay said back to his best friend.
"But before you do anything else…," Carlos said, his voice suddenly sounded a lot more serious and his smile had disappeared. "There is someone else here to see you."
Jay frowned up for a moment. He looked around, expecting to see Mal or Lonnie somewhere. He then recognized the tall man, wearing a red robe and an old fashioned turban. Jay felt a lump in his throat when he started to realize he didn't just play in front of Gil and Little John. It had also been the first match his dad had ever witnessed.
"Dad? What are you doing here?" His words were only a whisper, but Jafar could read the words on his son's lips. Jay quickly swallowed the lump in his throat and straightened his shoulders. He quickly let go off Gil's hand and took some firm steps towards his dad. There was no need to get teary eyes for meeting his dad, even though Jay had waited a very long time for this moment to happen.
"Welcome to Auradon," Jay greeted his dad. He spoke loudly, hoping his dad could hear him over the rest of the noise. Jay forced a smile, but he figured he still looked overwhelmed. As if he was one of the lost boys, who had been waiting for his dad to return for years.
"It's great to see you again," Jafar greeted him back. His dad laid a hand on his shoulder and softly squeezed in it. Jay barely felt it due to the tourney armour he was wearing. His dad smiled. He obviously wasn't in as much difficulty as his son.
Jay wasn't sure what he should do. Any Auradon Kid would've pulled his dad into a hug, but Jay would definitely be crossing a line if he did so. Maybe he could just lay his hand on his dad's shoulder as well or maybe it was best to immediately take a step backwards. Jay decided to take the middle road and quickly pat his dad on his shoulder before he turned around.
"Dad, let me introduce you," Jay said and gestured towards Gil and Carlos. "This is Gil. He is mine…" Jay bit his tongue for a moment. He had no idea how he should address Gil to his dad. "He is the son of Gaston." It had been a quick save, but Jay hoped his dad hadn't noticed his hesitation.
"I know him," Jafar responded. "I have encountered the pirates a few times on the isle." Jay wasn't sure if his dad addressed the pirates in a negative or positive note. Jafar kept his eyes fixed on Gil for a few seconds, before he turned towards Carlos. "And of course I still remember DeVil's son, Carlos."
Gil could sense some hostility from the tall man that stood beside Jay. His eyes were narrowed and threatening, even though this man didn't come across as violence, like his own dad. Gil managed a friendly smile and gave a respectful nod. Jafar didn't pay much attention to it and turned back towards his son.
"Jay, is it possible if we could talk somewhere a little bit more quiet?" A frown appeared on Jay's face, but he slowly nodded.
"We could go to the locker room if you want to," Jay suggested.
"Too quiet," Jafar simply said. He then grabbed his son's shoulder and dragged him along. "Come on, let's get out of this crowd first."
Gil noticed how Jafar almost didn't use any force. He almost gently took Jay along, even though the sound in his tone made it clear he didn't tolerate any dissent. Jay looked confused, wondering what his dad wanted to tell him, but not alarmed in the slightest. Gil could still feel a slight panic rising up inside him and was glad Carlos was also still there with him.
"You played very good tonight," Jafar said to Jay, raising his voice a little so bystanders could hear. He looked through the crowd, memorizing all the faces he saw.
"Thanks," Jay responded. "It could've been better. I made a few unnecessary mistakes, but my last goal definitely made an impression." Jafar nodded as Jay spoke, but Jay knew his dad wasn't paying attention to him at all. It didn't even surprise Jay anymore when his dad quickly pressed a piece of paper in his hand as they walked alongside the tourney field.
"It's a list," Jafar simply said, his voice suddenly a lot softer. "Gaston his trying to gather as much villains for his cause as possible. On that list are all the names who are siding with Gaston." Jafar glanced over to his son, making sure Jay could still hear him.
Jay held the piece of paper tight in his hand, understanding it was best people didn't notice the note his dad had given him.
"You need to pay attention to everyone on that list," Jafar continued strict. "Their children as well. I know some of them already crossed the border and they're already in Auradon. It would be wise if you imprison them immediately."
"How can you be so sure their kids mean us any harm?" Jay questioned out loud. Jafar grabbed his son's arm once more and looked at him again.
"It would be very wise," Jafar simply said. "Tell Mal to declare a war on the Isle and prepare their armies. I'm perplexed it isn't already done yet. Mal shouldn't have waited for so long."
"Declare a war on the Isle?" Jay sounded even more surprised than he expected.
"It would be very wise," Jafar repeated himself. Jafar continued their walk, giving the expression to bystanders that nothing was going on.
"My name is on that list as well," Jafar said and for a moment Jay looked at him in shock. "I told Gaston I'll be fighting for him, but I won't. I will turn on him the moment we enter the battle field. But I probably won't see you until then. You have to trust me." Jay simply nodded. Again that irritating lump seemed to be stuck in his throat.
"Be careful, dad," Jay managed to say. His father stopped again, but this time he put a hand on his shoulder and took a deep breath.
"You grew up to be a fine, young man," Jafar said proudly. "I know you're going to be alright." Jafar gave a little smile to his son, making Jay a little bit more at ease.
"You did well with befriending that pirate boy," Jafar continued. His voice had already lost all sympathy and he sounded like a businessman once again. "Those pirates are fierceful enemies, but also valuable friends. It's best to keep them on your side."
For the first time that evening Jay send his dad a real smile, confirming his words. He realized both he and his dad had been on both sides of the spectrum.
"Make sure you also gather other villains to your cause," Jafar gave his last advice. "A lot of villains are actually unsure what to do because of Uma and the pirates. If the pirates could switch sides and trust Uma, than definitely a lot has changed."
Jay slowly nodded. He couldn't really comprehended that his dad truly tried to help them, even putting himself in danger in the progress. He had never seen his dad so selfless before.
"Thanks dad," Jay softly said. He had no idea how he could show his gratitude, not sure if a hug would still be out of place. His dad smiled bittersweet at him, as if he felt the same way. This wasn't a situation either of them was familiar with.
"I'll be going back to the Isle within a moment. It would be better if I don't stay too long," Jafar said after a while.
Jay just nodded in agreement as he always had done. Jafar never listened to anyone else, but himself. Even though Jay really wanted him to stay, he knew he could never convince his dad. It seemed so unnecessary for his dad to cross the bridge once more and report to Gaston again. But before Jay could even express his feelings, his dad had already turned around and tried to walk away.
"Dad," Jay quickly shouted before his dad would be gone. Jafar turned around, facing his son again. Jay had finally made his decision. He wouldn't be able to change his dad's mind about staying in Auradon, but there was still another important thing Jay had to talk about.
"About Gil," Jay said clearly. "He's not just any friend. He's my boyfriend." Jay felt nervous, maybe even a little scared, when his dad frowned down on him for a moment. Jay decided he would stand his ground, no matter how his dad would react. He remembered how brave Gil had been, back when Gaston heard the news. Gil didn't back down, so Jay refused to show any discomfort he might had.
"I thought so much," Jafar finally responded. "Why else would you be greeting him in that manner. It didn't make much sense to me."
Jay cursed to himself, knowing his dad was referring to the kiss he and Gil had shared on the tourney field. Jay should've known it was stupid to jump in his arms and kiss him, but he never would've expected his dad would witness it. Jafar could see the distress on his son's face, even though Jay tried his best to hide it. They both had always been bad at these heart to heart conversations.
"You know son, it doesn't even surprise me," Jafar continued, making Jay look up in shock once more. "Yes, I've seen you flirt with every girl that crossed your path, but somehow the way you looked at the DeVil's boy…" Jafar stopped for a moment, an uneasy look on his face. Jay could feel his disapproval, even though it still went better than he expected.
"He makes you happy?" Jafar suddenly asked and finally turned towards his son.
"Yes?" Jay answered, unsure why his dad would ask such a question.
"Does he make all your wishes come true?"
"Well yes!" Jay replied once more, but this time he already was a lot more confident.
"Good," Jafar answered with a smile. "You have to make sure you don't waste your entire life searching for a lamp. And like I said; it's important to keep the pirates on your side."
It took a moment before his father's words sank through. Jay smiled brighter and finally wrapped his arms around his dad. Jafar awkwardly patted him on his shoulder. It also didn't take long before Jay quickly took a step backwards again. Jay was surprised to see his dad had a proud look on his face. Jay would fight for what he wanted, just like his dad wanted him to. What his son was fighting for, was something he should get used to, Jafar thought as he looked back at Gil for a moment.
"Thank you," Jay said once more, getting his dad attention again. "I mean it, thank you."
Jafar smiled up to his son, for the last time that evening grabbing his shoulder. "Anything for my son."
Once more Jay couldn't believe how selfless his dad was. As if he had changed since Jay last visited him on the Isle. As if his dad had finally realized Jay wasn't happy about all the choices his dad had made throughout his life and he finally tried to make up for it.
Jafar turned around, leaving for the Isle of the Lost again. Just before he was lost in the crowd, Jafar turned towards his son one last time.
"You're pretty good at this tourney game," Jafar yelled up to Jay. "I bet you can make a lot of gold with it. So when you make it big, make sure you don't forget about the old man who taught you all those skills." Jay laughed and waved goodbye to the man who'd raised him.
"Just in time dad," Jay said bittersweet as he watched him disappear in the crowd. "I almost didn't recognize you anymore."
