"Hey, thanks Davey," Jack sat up as the other boy retrieved blankets and brought them to the bed. David climbed under the newly spread blankets as he and Jack got comfy.

"It's no problem, Jackie."

Jack shifted around and finally settled on his side, facing the other boy.

"Are you afraid?" Davey asked, scooching closer to Jack. "I mean, it's all gotta be so many responsibilities and so much stress."

Jack chuckled nervously. "Well, I mean, sure it's stressful and all but afraid? I ain't afraid. I'm Jack Kelly! I ain't scared o' nothin'." A slight pause as he comes back to reality, "Yeah, well, so what if I am scared?"

"There's nothing wrong with that Jack. Fear is a natural response to any new experience." Davey shifted closer to Jack and draped an arm around him. "Jackie, we are gonna be fine. Plus you know, I'm always right here if you need me too. And I don't plan on leaving you." Dear God that sounded creepy.

"I-I mean at the rally."

David was blushing furiously now, and the spot where his arm met Jack's back seemed to be tingling.

Jack smiled at David and then drew in a quick yawn and rubbed his eyes.

"Tired?" Davey asked, becoming aware that it was probably 3:30 by now and that they'd have to get up in a few hours.

Jack nodded sleepily. "Mmm-hmm."

The boys had unconsciously moved so close to each other that their noses would touch if they continued. "I'm gonna hit the sack, hey, Davey?"

"Alright Jack." David responds. Jack is out in a few minutes and David is contemplating in the almost silence of his bedroom.

He huffs and closes his eyes, letting his thoughts consume him. The rally is happening in a few hours. This'll all be over soon. Then I don't have to be out here with these stupid bums and Jack Kelly-No. These "stupid bums" are my best pals. And Jack Kelly is...well

I don't know what he is to me. A friend sure, but I want something more. Good God, Jack. What are you doing to me?