I'll Fight Hell to Hold You

Dinner Date Dread

Paul had taken the girls to Bruce's house for the night. He had promised Tommy that they would have a dinner date without interruptions. Getting back home, he hurried upstairs to shower and change. 

"Paul, could we cancel? I'm feeling awful." came Tommy's voice from the bedroom. 

"Baby? Are you sick or is it just nerves?"

Tommy had an unspoken fear of dread about this date. He still had nightmares about the past and was afraid of disappointing Paul. He looked up with dread on his face. "Please?"

Instead of giving in, Paul walked over and took Tommy in his arms. "No. We have a private booth at your favorite restaurant. I'm not allowing you to get trapped in your shell again. Now, let's shower together and get dressed." 

Tommy swallowed hard and did what Paul asked. He really wanted to go but was scared he'd have a meltdown or start crying. Shaking as he showered, he felt Paul hold him. He laid his head on his shoulder and closed his eyes. In his ear he could hear Paul's soothing voice. 

Raising his head, Tommy blinked back tears and told Paul he'd try his best to enjoy dinner. "If I want to leave early, is that okay?"

"Yes. We'll take it an hour at a time."

Tommy agreed and finished getting ready.

He managed to get through the main course, even eating 3/4 of the meal. Paul quietly finished the rest of the food. They ordered a small dessert to split and also a bottle of wine. About two hours later, Paul knew it was probably time to go.

He took Tommy's hand and led him back to the car. "You did good baby." 

Tommy smiled and kissed Paul gently on the cheek.

They headed off to drive around for awhile. Paul thought it best to just let Tommy look out the window as he drove.