N/A: Another chapter... I hope that you guys like! My requests remain: if you see any mistakes let me know and I still need a beta! XD
You'll see that Lindsay's personality changed a little bit in this chapter and is that way that I'll portray her in the following chapters! :)
And for the ones that are reading my other Dameron story: I'll update tomorrow, I promisse!
Chapter 5
Confession
The first classes that Cameron had that Wednesday was only for Administration, so Cameron couldn't help but sit near his friends. He had to stand all of Lindsay's complaining about his distance until the teacher caught the girl's attention, which didn't take long. At the end of the class, Lindsay followed him to the office, where Cameron was informed about the new volleyball team and signed up for the tests that would be on Saturday.
After the break, they went to the room on the first floor where they had classes together with Information Systems and Foreign Trade. The teacher wasn't there yet, so they waited for his arrival sitting against the wall beside the door. Cameron wasn't in the mood to talk so he closed his eyes to make clear that he didn't want to be bothered by anyone. Lindsay understood the message and remained quietly at his side. But the quiet atmosphere was over when Cameron felt his lungs invaded by a nasty smoke that was almost choking him. He opened his eyes to see Lindsay with a cigarette in her mouth.
- Lindsay, stop it! - Cameron took the cigarette from her hands. - How many times do I have to tell you that this thing is going to kill you? And I can't stand this smell so, please, don't smoke near me, did you understand? Also, you know very well that ...
- ... is not allowed to smoke in college - added a female voice, but it was not Lindsay's.
Cameron turned to face Von Bleicken, who was followed closely by Larsen and McGinty, obviously. Great, now they thought it was he who was smoking. But rather than try to justify, Cameron had a better idea. He put the cigarette in his mouth; sucked carefully to not breathe that disgusting smoke and expired in the girl's face, who began to cough. McGinty seemed angry and pulled her back.
- Let's go – he said, but Larsen was completely red, whistling and blowing smoke.
- Why, you filthy ... - Larsen made a move up from Cameron, but Prof. Darren chose that moment to appear.
Before he reach them, Cameron threw his cigarette on the floor, and released another amused look at them and entered the room. Only then he start to cough slightly as he sat near the door, trying not to think about how many minutes of his life had shortened because of this joke.
- Why did you do that? You hate cigarettes…
Cameron rolled his eyes and coughed once more.
- Shut up, Lindsay - Lindsay looked hurt. - Give me some gum, candy, anything to get that horrible taste in my mouth.
She handed him a mint. Cameron watched the Golden Trio enter the room and sit in some nearby places.
- Good morning! - Darren said as he entered and put his things in the teacher's desk. - Today I will give a little work to note. I want you to come together in pairs or trios to do some exercises.
Cameron rolled his eyes again. Of course he suggested trios! Cameron would never admit it, but Darren Criss is a good teacher, though he had no class. He was always with worn-out clothes, had no position or status. "A loser with asthma", as he used to think. How could he respect a person like that?
At that moment he heard a shuffling of chairs around and Lindsay was already on his side. He gave a snort, but said nothing. There the trio straighten up so that Von Bleicken stayed in front of the boy and McGinty and Larsen sideways to her, facing one another. McGinty handed out chewing gum to the others and began to chew while Von Bleicken copied the exercise.
- Here, Lindsay - Cameron gave a pen and paper for her. – At least copy the statement, since you're not worth for nothing else.
- You know, Cameron, one day I'll be done with all the shit that you give me.
- And that will be the happiest day of my life. – Cameron didn't mean that but he was pissed and wanted to hurt the girl.
- I know this isn't the truth. I'm your only real friend…well, a little more than friend but you understood my point of view…
- Shut up and copy!
Cameron turned his attention to the trio again with sharpened ears.
- ... has a crush on you, man – Larson said, smirking.
- I know - McGinty said without much emotion. - I'm not an idiot to not realize it, but I don't want anything with it. She's too forward for my taste; she looks at me like she's eating me with her eyes!
- I also think she isn't good for you, Damo- Von Bleicken stepped up while copying. - But what about Dianna? She's a good girl and lately she's staring at you all the time.
- Yeah, she was watching my training yesterday - McGinty gave a weary sigh. - I don't know...
- She is very pretty, Damian. Not as much as Naya, but ... Ow! - Larsen's girlfriend took a pinch and Cameron chuckled contemptuously. - I'm just saying what I think, oh boy! Where is the freedom of speech in this country?
- She likes you, Damian, and that's what matters - Von Bleicken concluded. - I think you should give her a chance.
McGinty rested his chin in one hand.
- What is the problem, man? - Larsen asked the question that Cameron had in mind.
- I don't know, Sam. I'm okay this way, alone. I don't feel tempted to get a girlfriend. Maybe I'm waiting for a feeling that doesn't exist, maybe I'm cold, but I know I don't feel anything for her or anyone else lately.
- Remember the promise you made to Chris that you would at least try - Von Bleicken said.
- It's ... I think it wouldn't hurt me try a little ... - McGinty resigned.
They were silent for a moment while McGinty seemed to consider whether to say something, until he decided to:
- How is Hanna?
"Oh, that's interesting" Cameron thought. "It seems I found the real reason for such indifference, he is still in love with the redhead."
- She fought with Colin again - Larsen said, frowning. – She is at home, mopping around and didn't want anybody close to her. I think you should enjoy the opportunity and talk to her, man - he added hopefully.
McGinty chuckled without emotion.
- If she hadn't fought with him about five hundred times before...
- Yes - Larsen discouraged again. - It seems like after every reconciliation they are more in love, it's almost disgusting.
Von Bleicken, who had been quiet until now, spoke up.
- Damian, do you really believe that you still love her?
- I have no idea! I don't think it would be the same if we got back, I really don't believe that it would happen. I fell in love with the image of mature woman that Hanna have and that image will never leave my mind. I'll compare all the girls with her.
- This is exactly what I think, Damian - said the girl. - Is it this what you want? Another girl just like her?
- No, I would be seeing Hanna in every gesture of her; I would remember the past, my mistakes, and how I was an idiot to leave her... But let's change the subject, ok?
McGinty leaned more comfortably on the seat, and endeavored to make a gumball. "Pop! Pop!" Cameron mentally cheered as the ball grew slowly.
- Are you doing anything today, Damian? - Larsen asked.
McGinty plucked the air with one hand in response. Larsen seemed satisfied with that, but Cameron frowned wondering what it could mean, but was distracted when the gumball finally burst.
Cameron chuckled, but his laughter died when the three also started laughing, having fun. McGinty also laughed and tried to clean around his mouth, with Von Bleicken's help. Suddenly it no longer had any fun to Cameron.
~ ~ dameron ~ ~
Damian was sitting in front of the computer in what looked like a small computer lab. There were nine other computers arranged around the walls and five of them were busy. It was almost six when he could finally go home take a shower. The day was cloudy, but was very hot and the air conditioning was broken.
.: Angel:. says: Why "The Hipster"?
The Hipster says: What do you mean? You're wondering why I chose this nickname?
.: Angel:. says: Yeah.
The Hipster says: Well, I have a different style, I don't like to dress like everyone else, I have my own style! I consider myself kind of a nerd, not those weird nerds who doesn't have friends, but in a unique way. But I have friend who told me that I'm look more like a hipster than a nerd, I don't know…
.: Angel:. says: Interesting. I'm wondering how you dress yourself…
The Hipster says: Imagine someone cool and with style, it's me. But what about yours? Why Angel?
.: Angel:. says: Oh, it's a little something unimportant ...
The Hipster says: I remember you said that had emotional value to you, then certainly isn't any "thing of any importance."
.: Angel:. says: Ok, is very important to me. Is the way my mother used to call me when I was younger, that's all.
The Hipster says: Why she "used to"? Because now you're a grown man and can't be called Angel?
.: Angel:. says: No, actually it's because she died.
The Hipster says: Oh .. I'm sorry ...
.: Angel:. says: No problem.
The Hipster says: Are you going to play today?
.: Angel:. says: Yes, today I have class. And did you think about take classes? If you want, I know a good teacher to show you!
The Hipster says: Well, I don't know ... I think if I would have to learn an instrument would be guitar, because it's what I like most and I already play a little. I don't know if I have what it takes to play the piano. It seems very difficult…
.: Angel:. says: I assure you it is much easier than you thought.
The Hipster says: Oh, I suppose it is! But I prefer the guitar. It seems much simpler: just chords and voice.
.: Angel:. says: I know a great teacher too. You must know him, because he teaches at McKinley. He teaches Statistics Administration.
There followed a few seconds of hesitation before Damian obtained a response:
The Hipster says: Criss?
.: Angel:. says: Yes! Darren Criss! He is fantastic! In fact, what he plays best is the violin, but he plays every stringed instrument you put in front of him: guitar, viola, cello ... Well, you didn't want him playing a wind instrument, right?
Another seconds of hesitation.
The Hipster says: Dude, I think he got up on my concept. But he doesn't seem to be a musician, I mean, he doesn't have asthma attacks while playing?
Damian had to hold the laughter to not draw the attention of other trainees.
.: Angel:. says: Are you kidding? Music is therapy for asthma even! It plunges us into another world, another dimension. His crises are very connected with the psychological and the music soothes, is medicine for the soul and refuge for the mind.
The Hipster says: Wow, you spoke beautifully! Almost convinced me!
.: Angel:. says: But seriously. You need to hear him play sometime. He and my piano teacher, together! They are amazing!
The Hipster says: If you're saying...
.: Angel:. says: Well, the message are given. I must go now. I really need to take a shower…
The Hipster says: Ok, good luck with your class.
.: Angel:. says: Thanks, man. See you tomorrow?
The Hipster says: Certainly. See you.
~ ~ dameron ~ ~
After the long-awaited shower, Damian and Chris ate a snack and went to the studio. Snuffles settled into an ottoman and prepared for a long and comfortable nap.
- Shall we begin? - Asked Chris pulling a stool beside Damian.
- Of course, Professor.
- Great, let's see what you got.
Damian started with some easy parts of Bull, and then spent two more complicated Bach, who played with aplomb, and finally Czerny.
- Let those fingers go, Damian! Relax!
- I'm trying! - Damian protested. - Argh, I hate Czerny!
- Don't say that or you'll never get! Czerny is great for exercise and you need this.
- But the melodies are ugly and too complicated!
- Oh, stop whining and play again.
After another fail attempt, Chris made him leave the piano and played the part with perfection.
- You will continue studying this piece to play that way, ok?
- Alright – said a resigned Damian, sitting in the ottoman.
- And don't forget the new pieces of Bach and Bull. I'll find a very pretty song for you as a reward when you pass this Czerny lesson.
Damian smiled and Chris joined him on the ottoman.
- Move over - Damian settled down so that Chris sat, hugging him. - Now I get rid of the title of professor and, as your godfather, say you're doing well, Damian. Congratulations! - Chris messed his godson's hair and planted a kiss on his forehead.
- Thank you, Chris. Someday I'm gonna be just like you!
- No way! I am unique! - Chris puffed out his chest.
Damian smiled playfully.
- Then I'll be better than you!
- Ah, well, there's another story...
They laughed and Damian pulled back a little to face him in the eye.
- Chris, I have fulfilled my part of the promise, and you?
The smile died on Chris' face and he sighed.
- Ah, Damian, I'm okay like this...
- No, you don't convince me at all!
Chris threw his head back.
- It's more complicated than you think, Damian ...
- So explain to me!
Chris remained motionless for several long seconds before lifting his head again, rubbing his hands and face to face with his unusually serious godson.
- All right, Damian. I can't hide it from you all your life. But you have to understand that it isn't easy for me, I never talked to anyone about it and I'm afraid of your reaction.
- Tell me, please! - said Damian in a encouraging way. He knew something was bothering his godfather and was willing to help him and support him in whatever it was.
- Damian, I had much time to think about my mistakes, while I was in jail. All the time I spent there, I didn't live; I could only think about everything that I had passed. I cried a lot because of your parents and especially because of Darren. I knew that Darren was in pain and alone. He no longer had his family or friends or anyone. We were his only family and suddenly Joseph and Lily were dead and I was arrested. It was useless to cry for your parents, it wouldn't bring them back, but just knowing that I couldn't be at Darren's side gave me a pain in my heart! Once I got out of jail, the first one I look for was him. You had to see him, Damian. He was a disaster, a mere ghost of the man he used to be. And I did everything to bring him back to life while at the same time trying to convince you that I had always been innocent. I got both my intentions and these are the things that I'm most proud in life.
Chris paused a little, closing his eyes tightly before continue, looking at the window:
- I thought that after that I would be happy for the rest of my life, but that was not what happened. After achieving these goals, I still had to take you off of your uncle's house and I swore to myself that I would do anything for it. But then something happened that I didn't expect. That time, it was Darren helping me, doing everything for me. We spend much time together, talking, laughing, remembering old times, touching. We only had each other and, without me noticing it, a feeling was coming without asking me. Suddenly, I wanted to hear more of Darren's calm voice, his delicious laughter, to have fun with his mania of wanting to fix everything and everyone, to be by his side to soothe him in times of crisis .. .
Damian was in silence, full of expectation and doubts. Chris thought about what to say. Perhaps he hadn't expressed himself properly. What else could he say to get the message and not stun Damian?
- I start to need his company, admiring his knack of being frail and timid, but at the same time determined, to look those sad eyes, teasing him with unimportant things just to enjoy his lovely knack of getting angry. ..
- I don't understand where you're going, Chris - he looked at his godson, who was confused, then sighed and turned to face the window.
Apparently even those reactions were not as revealing. Maybe he was not being very clear, would have to choose more words:
- Actually, Damian, I still felt the need for something more. I wish I could touch him, pet him, hug him ... kiss him.
At the sound of those words, Chris could feel Damian get a little tense and he knew he had finally been understood - more clear than that he couldn't be, right?
- I think he never suspected it actually, but I realized that I felt and still feel this. I couldn't say anything to him, couldn't allow myself that feeling because that way I would end all hopes of take you home, Damian. Who would give your guard for a man who was related to another man? I promised myself that when you came to live with me I would talk to you about it, but I realized it wouldn't be so easy. I was afraid of your reaction, I was afraid that you rejected me, that it would disgust you. So I'm telling you this first, before taking any further action. Because if you tell me that you don't accept, Damian, Darren will ever know it.
Only then Chris turned to face Damian. The boy was looking out the window and his eyes were unfocused. It was impossible to distinguish whatever he was thinking or feeling, but just the fact the boy hadn't moved away from his embrace had already given some hope to Chris. Damian sighed and held his head in his hands.
- I can't believe, Chris - Chris felt a lump forming in his throat. - I can't believe that you let this stuck inside of you all these years! Why didn't you tell me this before?
Damian looked at Chris with his intense blue eyes that were filled with sincerity and concern, and Chris didn't know whether to laugh or cry.
- Oh, Damian ... I was so afraid that you would pack your things and go away without even looking at my face ...
- I understand, Chris. It wasn't easy for me to hear all this, but I can't stop you from being happy! And even if you had told me that his happiness would be next to Grant Gustin I'd give my full support!
Chris let out a laugh that sounded like a bark and messed up his hair again before squeeze Damian into a hug.
- Thank you, Damian. I promise you that I'll conquer that lovely fool and I'll be the happiest man in this world!
- How can you be so sure?
- Now, Damian, that's obvious! I'm irresistible!
Damian looked at him with serious face.
- Just promise me one thing, Chris.
- Whatever you want!
- Promise you won't start to kiss Darren at home until I get used to the idea?
Chris threw his head back and laughed heartily.
- Ok, I'll try to restrain myself.
Damian smiled through baffled.
~ ~ dameron ~ ~
The Thursday was moving really slowly, according to Cameron. He had been training until late last night, but he held to the desire to prove his capacity. He didn't have any classes together that morning, but it was reported that McGinty would also have voleyball practice tonight so he scheduled to go to the gym again. This time he wasn't going to spying - he tried to convince himself – he was going there because of his need for improve his fitness. He was a little hampered by lack of exercise.
The afternoon passed tediously slow. He had to join the demonstration when were done the tests to the system which he suggested. The system was quite complex and the demonstration had taken almost the entire afternoon, so he hadn't much time to talk to Angel. But at least he had good news for him:
.: : Really?
The Hipster says: Sure, it worked perfectly!
.: Angel:. says: Thank God! I was getting worried! Too bad my next work may not have much use to your company...
The Hipster says: What is it?
.: Angel:. says: About hackers, the dangers of using services - mainly banks – online and some tips to avoid passwords that are easily discovered.
The Hipster says: Oh, well, most of our banking is done online, pay bills, transfer, etc., then maybe we can get something out of it!
.: Angel:. says: Great, I found some very interesting things myself, but you will only find out on Sunday.
The Hipster says: No problem. So, how was class yesterday?
.: Angel:. says: Wow, controversy, I would say. But it was productive.
The Hipster says: Controversy?
Cameron rubbed his chin while the other probably was hesitant about what to say.
.: Angel:. says: Have you ever discovered something you never even wondered about someone you thought you knew well?
Oh, Cameron knew it very well. He was going through it all this week as he watched the boy who he had always hated. He always thought he knew everything about Damian McGinty, but he was discovering new things every day and he's frustrated. Rather than quench his thirst, as Nikki had said would happen, he became more and more curious about the boy!
The Hipster says: Yeah, I've been there recently. It's funny how we think we know people, but they are much more complex than we think. And amazing!
.: Angel:. says: Amazing, no doubt ...
The Hipster says: And what do you intend to do about this new discovery?
.: Angel:. says: Accept. I guess I gonna change my way of thinking, my view on the subject. I am sure I can get used to it. It's just being difficult to digest, but I'll get used.
Cameron wasn't finding that easy to accept or digest his own findings. Much less change his views about McGinty.
The Hipster says: I hope you can, because I'm not so confident.
.: Angel:. says: Time to go, isn't it?
The Hipster says: Yes, finally. See you tomorrow.
.: Angel:. says: Bye.
~ ~ dameron ~ ~
Cameron arrived at the gym a bit before the workout and could see McGinty coming too. The boy was the first from the team to arrive and, after putting his red and gold uniform, went to court to warm up while waiting for the rest of the team, most probably to avoid cramps. And this time he hadn't any cramp, jumped the whole training, but didn't took off his shirt again. Was he embarrassed that the girls were watching? But he had an amazing body ... he said amazing? No, he meant to say enviable - as Cameron would only admit to himself, which was already a progress - so why would be ashamed? Would he be that shy?
Cameron start to do some abdominal crunches. The academy was much more crowded tonight than on Tuesday, but Cameron was so engrossed in thoughts that he didn't notice the girls at the gym sending him some looks.
When he returned to the bike, McGinty had stopped to drink water and the same blond girl of Tuesday went to McGinty and sat down to talk again. Now he recognized her as Dianna Agron, who should be in one of his classes. McGinty seemed to be a bit hesitant; he wasn't as fun as in the previous practice. McGinty was called again to the training, then stood up and said goodbye to the girl. But Cameron was surprised when the boy grabbed her hand before she gets away and said something that made Dianna's smile triple in size. She didn't leave this time, just sat back and watched the game. Cameron pedaled faster.
The training didn't last any longer after that. McGinty said something to Dianna and followed the others to the locker room. Cameron also went to the locker room and took a bath. He left the gym and stood staring at nothing. He had observed the practice, studied McGinty's behavior, so why he wasn't going home? Why he was dying of curiosity about what would happen next? Well, if he was investigating, he should do the full service.
He went to the stairs and went down the court. At first glance, thought there was nobody else. The grandstand was empty and the lights at locker room were off. He was about to turn back when he heard a snap and turned to the side. Adjacent to the locker room, partially hidden from his view by a pillar, McGinty and Agron were up ... kissing - the only explanation for the popping sounds. She was leaning against the concrete column, involving McGinty's neck while he held her waist and clung to her body. They were very close to Cameron, but apparently too entertained to notice him.
They stayed for a few minutes until McGinty take off his lips from hers and lean his head on the concrete. The girl understood it as a permission to kiss his neck, but once she started, the boy got away from her, leaning on the other wall and throwing his head back with eyes closed. Cameron arched an eyebrow and Dianna was without action.
- Damian ... are you okay? - she murmured after a few seconds that the boy made no mention of moving.
McGinty took a deep breath before pick up his bag on the floor.
- Sorry, Dianna ... I ... do you want me to take you to your house?
- No, I ... I came by car ... thank you - the girl's voice seemed shaky and McGinty avoid her eyes.
- I'm sorry, Dianna ... I think I shouldn't have made you wait for me.
Instead of answering, the girl ran sobbing and McGinty leaned against the wall again, slipping to the floor.
- Idiot - oddly enough, this word hadn't come out of Cameron's mouth, but of McGinty's, who banged his head against the wall in punishment.
Cameron didn't know what to think. It was the first time he saw the Golden Boy so devastated and didn't feel the slightest desire to take advantage of the situation. It had nothing to play on him, to torment him, insult him. He wished he could understand what was happening. McGinty had said he was trying to get a girlfriend but couldn't, when at least half of McKinley's female population were about to throw at his feet if he asked. Dianna was beautiful, sweet and crazy about him, as it seemed. But apparently it was not enough to convince him. Was it because of that redhead? Was the girl so perfect that no one would make a difference for him? Cameron could only conclude that feelings were something that he should stay away. If were to stay in this disconsolate state that McGinty was, he preferred not understand why it was so important to feel anything for anybody.
McGinty finally regained the determination and stood up leaving the court and a Cameron lost in thoughts. He would get mad before understand Damian McGinty.
N/A: Guys, I'll put another characters in the story, using some of the contestants of The Glee Project 2. So I need you guys to vote. After I see your votes I'll give more information about them:
1) Character who will interact with Cameron (well, with Damian too but mainly with Cam):
( ) Blake
( ) Michael
2) Character who will interact with Lindsay:
( ) Charlie
( ) Abraham
( ) Maxfield
( ) Other. Who?
