Pieces of Nine

2. New Rules

Without having to be told, the group made their way towards Nathan’s. After that morning’s events, things were going to need to be discussed.  Reluctantly, they left Sang at her home so that they could take care of some family business, under the guise of ‘official’ Academy business.

Once all the boys, and Dr. Green has settled into their various spots around the living room, Mr. Blackbourne called the start of the meeting. “Ok gentleman. Let’s calm down and get to work.” He was down to business. “I realize that this morning’s activities were rather … inspiring. However, it is obvious that this situation merits a few new ground rules.” Groans and muffled protests were heard around the room.

“More rules? Don’t we have enough already?” Luke was not happy with this revelation and wasn’t afraid to voice his objections. It’s not that he wanted to take advantage of Sang, but there were things that a boy naturally wants to do with a girl he was attracted to, and Luke was very attracted to Sang.  A couple of the other boys agreed.

“What more rules could there possibly be to add?” Silas queried. His date was tomorrow night and Silas planned to make the most out of his position as ‘first’. Maybe there were a few other firsts he would be able to claim from the evening as well… his thoughts began to wander, filled with the possibilities.

“The fact that each of us has the opportunity to start spending time alone with Miss Sorenson, does not mean that we get to take advantage of our position.” Mr. Blackbourne made sure to make eye contact with each of the boys at this point, including Dr. Green who made sure to return the gaze with a look of pure innocence. Mr. Blackbourne wasn’t fooled. He rolled his eyes, when Sean gave him a playful wink.  “It’s imperative that she remain comfortable at all times, and that Miss Sorenson always feels safe and protected when she is with any of us, at any given time. We wouldn’t want to scare her away or give her any reasons not to trust us.” That made each of the boys stop and think. No one wanted to lose her and at this point they were all willing to do anything required to keep that from happening.

“Well, no fucking shit, Mr. Blackbourne.” North blurted out. His comment earned a sharp look from the very person North had directed his comment toward. “I’m sorry, sir. No disrespect, but I think it’s safe to say that at this point we are all willing to do whatever it takes to keep her in our family. No one wants to scare her away.” The boys all nodded their heads in acquiescence.

“Yeah, Mr. B. We’re not idiots.” Nathan grumbled. “We haven’t scared her off yet, have we?”  It was all rhetorical. He didn’t want to admit it, but he was kind of insulted.

“But, damn it! How are we supposed to show her how we feel, if we aren’t allowed to make the first move?” Gabriel was approaching maximum frustration. He bounced his knees in pent up aggravation. Already, Gabe felt at such a disadvantage when it came to Sang, especially when compared with the other guys. “I mean, shit. If we have to wait for Sang to make the first move, then I’m gonna go stark raving mad.” Without even looking, Luke reached over and bumped fists with Gabriel. He felt the need to show his solidarity, “Either that, or spontaneously combust.” There were a few snickers around the room, and a couple murmurs of sympathy.

Victor glared at the two, “Watch it guys. Just because she isn’t here doesn’t mean we stop treating Sang with respect.”