Heartaches

Chapter 21

By Kellyq

Crow, Jack, and Yusei, who had grown up in the same orphanage, walked out of the hospital. Despite their different backgrounds and the fact that they were all orphaned, they had formed a strong bond. Yusei couldn't help but feel grateful and humble for having such great friends and loving people. Jack, especially, had always been there for Yusei, caring for him since they were kids...

A baby's cry echoed through the orphanage as Martha, the caretaker, walked in, holding a bundle in her arms. She stared at the tiny infant in her arms, Yusei.

Martha smiled and rocked the baby. "It's okay," she soothed. "No one's going to hurt you."

"Martha … what's going on?" came Jack's voice. The three-year-old toddler stood there, rubbing his right eye. Martha eyed them both. She knelt so Jack could have a better look. He stepped and peered down at Yusei. He reached out and took Yusei's tiny hand. "Hey, don't cry. You're safe now."

Yusei paused, his gaze meeting Jack's. A silent understanding passed between them at that moment, deepening their bond. Jack's smile was warm, and Yusei could see the genuine care in his eyes.

Martha's smile was warm and comforting. "Would you like me to hold him while I make phone calls?" she asked.

Jack nodded his head and followed Martha to the living room. Jack sat on the couch as Martha had him position his arm. Martha leaned over and placed Yusei in Jack's arms, ensuring he supported the baby's head. Martha watched for a moment to make sure that both boys were comfortable with each other. Martha nodded and turned when Jack spoke up after staring at the baby.

"What's his name?"

Martha turned and smiled at the sight. She had to admit that they were cute together. "It's Yusei."

Jack stared down at the baby. "Yusei, huh?" A cooing sound came from the back of Yusei's throat. A smile made it to Jack's lips, feeling the need to look after and protect him. "It's nice to meet you. I'm Jack, and I will take care of you."

Yusei's innocent eyes held a purity and kindness that was impossible to ignore. Martha watched for a moment, her heart swelling with the need to ensure Yusei's safety and happiness.

With the arrival of Crow and Kiryu, they formed an unbreakable bond. They were no longer just orphans but a team united as Satisfaction.

By this point, they were on their way to the racetrack, where they often went to escape their troubles and find joy in their shared passion for racing. When they got there, Aero was helping with registration. Aero looked up and smiled shyly at Yusei and his friends.

Yusei smiled back, pushed his bike over, and removed his gloves. Aero did the same, and their fingers were laced together. "Hey."

Aero nodded his head. "I was hoping that you guys would drop by. When I talked to Blister, it sounded like you guys wouldn't come."

"We weren't at first, but we figured we had time to do that," Yusei explained. By this point, Jack and Crow had pushed their motorcycles past them. Yusei looked back at Aero, glad he could talk privately with him without Jack scaring Aero with his intimidating vibes. "Besides, I want to talk to you alone."

Concern flashed across Aero's eyes. "If it's regarding him not wanting to be my drag racing partner, don't worry." He paused for a moment before continuing. Yusei watched him closely to see a soft glint in his eyes. "Blister and I talked about it already …" Aero paused again when he noticed Yusei's expression darkened. A frown made its way to Aero's face. "You didn't yell at Blister, I hope." Yusei looked the other way. Aero caught on with the vibes and the look. His expression softened as he rubbed his thumb along Yusei's Knuckles and kissed him. "Thank you for trying to help," Aero murmured. "But if Blister's not ready yet, then I'll have to wait, and I have no problem doing that."

All Yusei did was nod, grab his gloves, and veer his motorcycle toward the racetrack. Aero sighed with a troubled look as he watched Crow and Jack interact with Yusei.I know you love making people happy and putting everyone else ahead of yourself, but you should take a break from everything you are doing now and have fun.A smile made its way to Aero's lips when he saw them start to race around the track.

To Be Continued …