You'll Never Be Alone [mpreg|sequel]

xii

Dan is ten weeks into his pregnancy, almost half way through, when he decides he can't stay with Eddie and the others anymore.

He feels as if he has overstayed his visit.

Despite Eddie's assurances that he hasn't, Dan still shakes his head and hugs him tightly as they say goodbye.

"You don't have to go," Eddie states again.

"I know, but I..." Dan hesitates.

He doesn't know why, doesn't know how to explain, that he just has to go. There's something tugging at him, telling him, pushing him to go.

This is home, this is family, but he feels guilty.

He hasn't contributed to anything and Eddie is already struggling with feeding four kids.

He needs to get his shit together, maybe work part time at the hospital before he's due. Then... only then, will he come back. Only when he's sure he can provide for his baby, help his family.

"I love you Dan," Eddie whispers, letting go, to some degree understanding the internal dilemma Dan is facing.

"I love you too, Eddie," Dan smiles.

Riot bristles at those words inside of Dan's chest.

Dan rolls his eyes, his hand cupping the underside of his belly. Proof of their baby's continued growth. Proof of Dan's commitment even if Riot only uses him.

"Silly human," Riot growls as they walk out the door.

"Hm," Dan agrees with a soft hum, "I know."

"I'll protect you," Riot continues, trying to make Dan understand.

"I know," Dan whispers quietly.

But there's so much meaning in those few little words, more than understanding. There's hope. Hope Dan needs to squash before he's disillusioned.

Across the street a man stares at Dan blatantly.

Hate burns behind dark eyes covered by shades.

Jealousy rages and consumes the disfigured body as he impulsely crosses the street.

Eyes narrow and his hate grows for the doctor with every step, with every second. He should've died. He and that bastard spawn should've died! He was so close at having everything again!

Riot should have been his, damnit!

He and Riot make the perfect symbiosis!

He is Riot's perfect mate, perfect human! Not Daniel Lewis!

Not him!

Dan is only in the way.

Dan and that abomination he carries.

A scarred hand rests on his thin abdomen before he's reaching for his back pocket.

He lost everything.

And Dr. Lewis thinks he can just take it all?

The angered man rushes behind the doctor, steps quiet and swift.

He pulls out a gun, intention clear.

"Dr. Lewis!"

Dan pauses mid stride and turns around at the shout of his name.

The figure is a blurr.

He barely catches a glimpse as a bright light explodes from a gun's barrel and nearly blinds him.

His ears ring.

His vision blurs.

Suddenly, he can't breathe.