Prompt: Fake Blood
Hartley trudged home; the shelter had been especially raucous today, but it
brought a smile to his face. It was amazing what they could devise with the
gaudier clothing donations, a few makeup supplies, and plenty of candy from
the local stores... it was a good party. Though now he just wanted to go home
to James and have a more private celebration.
Alarm cries from the rats reached his ears as he approached their apartment
door. Hartley tensed, and carefully opened the door - then started screaming
at the sight before him!
James was sprawled on the floor, his head and chest soaked in blood.
"NO! Not again - I can't lose you again!" Hartley rushed forward, scattering
the rats that were surrounding James. So much blood... just like on the train...
James groaned as Hartley started examining him. "...wha?"
"Don't die, don't die..." Hartley wept.
"Dye?" James started to sit up, but slumped back with a groan. "No... not dye,
fake blood."
"Fake?"
"Pain's real... damn things went off too soon. Must've fallen..."
At that moment, Hartley didn't know whether to thank God that James was
alive - or strangle James for scaring him half to death! He settled for hugging
James tightly.
"Don't want to stain you..." James protested weakly. But he gave in to the
embrace; he hated to see Hartley cry. Especially over him?
"Don't mind that; we'll clean it." Then Hartley looked into James' eyes. "And
then you're going to the emergency room; a concussion's no laughing matter!"
"So much for Halloween..." James pouted.
"There's always the post-holiday candy sales? My treat."
"You're my best treat." And James sealed his words with a kiss.
(End)