in pieces

5. in between

You never know what true love is until you help your lover while they're puking on the toilet. (sometimes in the floor... when I have to clean it up.) Or when he finally digests something only to have to clean that mess up too. I sent Rob a message to get me some laundry detergent. Rice was the easiest thing for him. Carefully, with my dad's help, I made plenty of rice balls for dinner. I was also making some lightly seasoned beef to make sushi with, as raw fish wasn't a great idea. Plus, everything in this meal would be great for Chester.

I finished and called Chester to the table. He seemed happy with the dinner. He was very careful to eat without getting sick. His face turned pale, and I knew it was coming. I eased him over to the garbage, but he managed to keep it down. "Good job, Chaz. You did it! Let's let that settle and go visit Rob and Brad."

He shook his head no. The sudden change of mood alarmed me. I knew it was was because of me. After all, he would suddenly get upset remembering the past. It was unforgettable and unforgivable things. I let his hand go so he could have time alone.

"He'll come around, son," my dad patted me on the back. "I know him about as well as you. I helped teach him things a father teaches, after all. He's my third son," he chuckled.

"Yeah. I was in college living with you and mom. I found this little dude living out of his car and just got fired from Burger King. Sweetest methhead I had met," I laughed softly. "I helped him get off drugs and let him join the band. Not only because he had an amazing voice, but I wanted him to feel loved. Y'know... I was bullied for being gay in high school, so when I started getting feelings, I bullied him, especially when he told me he loved me. I kicked him out of the band and almost killed him because I couldn't... I couldn't face my own damn high school fears when he faced getting raped and abused every day. I'd give my life and fame away just to change things. I would put myself on those streets to show him how much he means to me. I would give the world to him."

"That... that is what you call love, son. You know, me and Donna almost split because I cheated. I cheated on her and never thought I would gain her trust again. I would've died to make her happy."

"Even though I messed up... there's still love?" I asked.

"Love is the strongest force of all," he smiled keenly.

"Mike, I heard it all. I forgive you."