At Least We Have Each Other (SBI AU)

Chapter 3- A Perfect Surprise

Techno POV

Techno pulled on his uniform, adjusting his jacket on top of it. He hated leaving his brothers home, but he had no choice. If he didn't work, they couldn't eat and that was not something he was willing to risk.

"Do you really have to go?" Wilbur questioned, leaning in the doorway.

Techno turned to him, a sad smile on his lips. "It's only for a few hours Wil, besides I have a surprise when I get back." He grabbed his key, slipping it into his pocket.

The brunette fidgeted with his hands, picking at his fingernails. He was silent, but Techno could tell what was on his mind. He was scared Techno wasn't coming back.

Techno sighed, approaching the younger. "I'll be back, I promise. I make a pinkie promise with Toms. Do you really think I would break my word?"

"It wouldn't be the first time." he muttered, he looked towards the ground.

"Well it won't happen this time." Techno promised, putting a hand on the teen's shoulder. "I'll be back in a few hours."

"What's the surprise?" a mop of blonde hair peeked around the door. 

Techno chuckled, shaking his head in amusement. "Do you always have to eavesdrop?"

"I wouldn't have to if you didn't hide things from me!" the blonde huffed. He was quick to cling to Techno's arm, demanding the older reveal his surprise. "What's the surprise Tech!?"

"It wouldn't be a surprise if I told you." he smirked, ruffling the boy's hair. Tommy whined, letting go in order to fix his now messy golden hair.

"But I want to know!" the blonde exclaimed, giving the best puppy eyes he could manage. "You don't want me to die of curiosity, right?"

Techno laughed, wanting so bad to tell him. But he knew the surprise would be worth it. He could hardly wait to see the way Tommy's eyes would light up. Techno couldn't remember the last time he had seen the spark in the boy's eyes. "It'll be worth it Toms, I promise." He glanced down at his phone, ignoring the large screen that bolted across it. He checked the time, realizing he was going to be late. "I gotta head out."

Throwing his jacket on, he headed towards the front door. He was nearly out the door when he heard Tommy speak. "Will he come back this time?"

Techno felt his heart break, but he didn't stop. He wasn't sure if he could handle Wilbur's response. Shaking his head, he knew that trust wouldn't come easy. He only hoped that his surprise would help.

Techno worked at an old grocery store, stocking shelves and working the registers. It wasn't the best job, but it worked for him. His boss was kind, always giving him a little extra in his paycheck whenever he could.

In return, Techno worked hard, trying to be the best worker he could be. He was quiet, but he was efficient, always getting his job done in a timely matter.

That afternoon was no different from any other, aside from the smile that wouldn't leave his face. He couldn't help it, he just couldn't wait to see their faces. He worked up to the end of his shift, finally arriving in the backroom to clock out a few minutes after.

He was about to head home when a voice stopped him. "Good work today Techno."

Techno turned to face his boss, smiling gratefully. "Thank you sir." 

"I told you not to call me that." the man laughed, his eyes sparkling in amusement. "It's just Joe, kid." 

"Sorry, si-" Techno cut himself off, groaning a little. "Sorry."

"No need to be sorry Techno." Joe replied, reaching in his back pocket. He counted a small amount of money, holding it out to Techno to take. 

"But sir, I'm not supposed to be paid for two more days!" he exclaimed, his eyes wide with surprise. How could someone be so kind to him.

The man chuckled, still holding out his hand. "I have a feeling you need it today." 

Reaching his hand out, Techno hesitated before slowly taking the money. It would cover dinner for the three of them for a few nights. A grateful smile spread on his face as he suddenly hugged the man, the stress of his situation fading a little. "Thank you! Thank you sir!" he exclaimed.

Joe hugged back, wishing he could do more for the teen. "It's nothing kid. Just take care of your brothers."

Techno pulled back, nodding, "I will." With one last smile, he left the backroom, quickly finding his way through the aisles. Finding what he needed, he quickly bought it and began making his way home. It was their favorite, spaghetti. Just like their mom used to make. Techno only hoped he could still remember the recipe. 

He took the long way home, having one more stop to make before arriving. It was a small store, just on the corner of the street. Stepping inside, his smile widened even more if that was possible. Movies lined every shelf in the store, each one waiting their turn to be watched. 

It didn't take long for him to find the one he was looking for. He had found it months ago. And now he finally had enough money to buy it. Finding Nemo, one of his favorite movies. It had been their favorite movie. They had found themselves watching it every Friday, snuggled up together.

That is, until he broke it. Techno pushed the memory aside, not wanting to think about that terrible night. 

Picking up the movie, he swiftly bought it, using the last of his savings. Now he only had the money Joe had given him.

He made his way home, excitement finding its way in every step.

Was there ever a better surprise?

----------------

Hope you liked it!

Thank you for 182 reads!!

Hope you have a wonderful day!

-Snowy