Catalyst

Part 4

"Dude, nice car by the way!" Michael didn't know much about cars himself, but anyone could recognize a classic. Automatic with leather seats. And the hum of the engine wasn't bad either. "It's an impala if I'm not mistaken."

"Right in one. Could say she's a childhood dream made reality." Keao stroke the wheel endearingly.

"Loved cars since you were young huh?"

"Not exactly. Believe it or not, I actually chose this particular model due to a show I used to watch growing up."

"You mean the one about hunting creatures?" He barely recalled the series himself. Though he wasn't into it. He preferred reality television. But seeing how Keao's eyes lit up as he smiled, he could tell he was fond of the supernatural.

"Guilty. Didn't always like their methods, but in their world they were heroes who had plenty of adventures. Something I'd like to do one day. Probably after graduation." He's so innocent. Michael caught himself questioning whether or not the campus gossip was true. The part of how hot he was was definitely true, even though at times it seemed like he barely noticed. His hair resting on his shoulders was dark as night with beautiful eyes that shined like emeralds.

"Be thankful that monsters do not exist," he said, placing a hand on his arm. "Life is not like the movies. We ordinary people would not stand a chance against those freaks."

"We won't know until we try!" Keao gave him the cutest wink. "I don't know about you, but I refuse to lose to anything!" At this moment Michael knew all else told to him was a lie. Keao was simply just a kid at heart. Yet sophisticated. At times he acted way more mature than his looks, but when he spoke he displayed a youthful ignorance. As if the pains of the world did not exist for him. Well, he did have an easy upbringing.

Everyone knew about the money and loving parents that Keao had. Every time a party was thrown, it would be at their estate. Although not as spectacular as most mansions celebrities own, his home easily made a close second. And his mother did not care about the drinking and the rowdiness. As long as everyone cleaned up after it was fine. Everyone wanted nothing more than to be in his shoes. Many sought his company just to experience wealth. The same wealth that more than likely got him this antique car.

In a way Michael was no different than others. He wanted in on it too. He always envisioned himself with an outstanding guy, a great house, and a few kids here and there who he would cherish above all else. A life where everything wasn't so hard all the time. A life that wasn't like the one he lived now. Staring at Keao now. Always looking suave. A guy who never had anything bad to say about anyone. He had a great head on his shoulders and Michael was kinda feeling him.

Before, he'd always thought he would never have a chance with a guy like him. He didn't have much to offer. Sure, he took extra care of his looks day in and day out and he was the best gymnast at the campus, however he didn't come from money. On top of that he had no real ties to family. He was kicked out when his parents found out about his first boyfriend. After the falling out he had to live with his uncle Leo. He may have been a pothead, but he never judged him for who he was and Michael was grateful for that. The real issue was the lack of income. Even after quitting smoking for Michael's sake, Leo could not afford to take care of them both. He was just a mechanic and was paying child support to his ex wife. What little money he had left went to Michael for school. Michael had offered to quit and get a job to help out, but his uncle wasn't having it. He'd always told him that he had talent, " And one day I better see you in the Olympics! Make me proud son."

Thanks to his scholarship he could afford school and as long as his grades stay up he should have a smooth sail. Now he just has to keep practicing in order to repay his uncle. Placing his hand on top of Keao's, "How about we go out sometimes? Go see a movie?" Now I must seize a life of my own. The life I deserve. Sarah reaching out at the last party is what is giving him the chance he needed. He won't waste a single moment of it.