The Things That I Know || George Michael

twenty-two - do that to them

Note: this chapter contains mention of suicide and poor mental health.

• • •

"I'm going to get George home now," Levi informs Andrew, as he opens the passenger door of his car to allow George to get in. "Thank you for everything tonight. I dread to think what could have happened if it weren't for your help."

"There's no need to thank me," Andrew answers, glancing at his beloved Yog, who is now sat numbly in the vehicle next to him. "I'm just glad we got through to him in time. He really needs this help, and I just hope he listens now."

"Me too." Levi heaves a saddened sigh.

"See you, Yog," Andrew bids farewell. "It was great to see you ... even under the circumstances. I just hope next time will be brighter."

"I'm sorry," George apologises; these two words are the only words he's really uttered since they dissuaded him from doing anything reckless.

"I've told you — no need to be sorry." To ease George's mind a little, he gives his friend a smile. "I'm always here, or on the other side of the phone. Don't ever forget that."

George nods, in acknowledgment of Andrew's words. "Thanks."

"I'll call you when we get back to Goring," Levi assures him. "Just so that you know we both got home safely."

"Thank you." Andrew steps back from the car, as Levi moves to the driver side to get in. "See you soon."

"See you." With these words spoken, Levi ducks down into his own seat, shifting around for a moment to make himself comfortable. He slams his door shut; places the key into the ignition; and then locks the doors from the inside. After completing these actions, he turns his attention to his husband. "I'm not taking any risks. The doors are remaining locked until we get home."

"What did you think I was going to do? Jump out as if I'm James Bond?" George snipes. "I'm not that agile."

"Well, you were agile enough to try and jump off Southwark Bridge a couple of hours ago," Levi retorts; immediately, he regrets his words. "Sorry. That was harsh and insensitive. It's just ... I can't wrap my head around everything that's happened tonight. I'm trying to process it all still. I'm not mad at you."

"Sure." George keeps his eyes fixed on the scenery outside the window, as the car starts to move gradually further away from London city centre.

• • •

"Mum?" Levi whispers, as he enters the front door of Mill Cottage. "Mum?"

Penny hears her son calling her quietly, so she makes her way into the hallway to greet him. "Hi, sweetheart." She looks to George. "Hey, darling. Are you alright?"

"It's been a rough night," Levi explains briefly. "I'll have to explain some other time."

"Don't let me stop you," George interrupts. "Everyone enjoys talking about me as if I'm not a human being, and as if I'm not around anyway."

"Oh, come on, George," Penny frowns. "That's not true at all. We all just love you and worry about you." She moves towards him, resting a comforting hand on the side of his arm. "We're all here for you."

"Thanks," George says flatly, heading towards the staircase. "I'm going to bed. I'd rather be asleep, where I can forget I exist for a few hours."

"George, you don't—" Levi tries to talk him round, but to no avail; for George is already on his way up to their shared bedroom. "Alright. I'll be up in a little bit, then."