You All Over Me [BxB]

Forty

The months leading up to the bar exam are more daunting than the four years of law school. From the very first year of their legal studies to their senior year, all that knowledge is packed into eight-hour lessons every weekend, from Friday to Saturday.

But the grind isn't contained in these sessions. Outside of in-person lectures, they immerse themselves in the intricacies of the law, reviewing throughout the week, going over notes, and watching recorded videos—at home, in the library, everywhere.

Theodore, always seen with his glasses perched on his nose and his unruly bangs tied back, becomes a role model for Jacob. His focus is relentless. Even with his part-time work at the center, he is never without a book in hand.

Gradually, Jacob begins to mimic his boyfriend's habits, tying back his own hair and wearing a pair of reading glasses. Even with Stella and Austin, most of their time is spent hitting the books, with a few breaks here and there to stay sane.

It is alienating, a trade-off to the path they've picked. The world is moving on without them. Their university friends are off traveling, dining at fancy restaurants, or investing in real estate, while they remain confined to the world of textbooks and statutes.

Still, they forge ahead.

As the day draws closer, Jacob's anxiety escalates. Sometimes, he wakes up in the middle of the night, heart racing, back drenched in sweat. He changes into a new shirt and quietly stares at Theodore's sleeping face to calm down, grateful that he's not alone, and that they will soon be financially-independent.

Truly, it is not as bad when you have someone you love by your side.

******

Theodore steps out of the hall, his knees nearly giving out, chest feeling light. It's over. The most difficult exam of his life is finally over.

A dense crowd, bearing banners and bouquets in support of fellow bar exam takers, has congregated on the sidewalk. The air is alive with cheers, and many shed tears. Everyone shares the same overwhelming sense of relief.

And now, they wait.

"Theo!"

It's Austin, his face as pale as parchment, while Stella appears remarkably thrilled, waving her hand.

"I'm so glad we're done! Now I can look forward to a solid eight hours of sleep!" she exclaims, clapping.

"I'm happy, but I'm also freaking out. I don't want to think about it, so no one should talk about their answers, got it?" Austin begs. "It's more nerve-racking to wait for the results."

Stella's eyes wander. "Where's Jacob? Weren't you in the same room?"

"We were. But I'm not sure..." Theodore mumbles, also looking. "Oh, there he is!"

Jacob marches toward them, two buttons on his shirt carelessly loosened, his eyes somewhat droopy but radiant. When he reaches the group, he wraps his arms around Theodore, holding him close to his chest, soaking him in.

Theodore reddens. "Hey, we're in public..."

"Sorry, I'm just so happy we're through with this." Jacob pulls away. "Come on, let's get going. We're gonna be late."

"Where are we going?" Austin asks.

Jacob gives the two an unapologetic smile. "Sorry, Austin, Stella. Theodore and I have to go somewhere."

"We do? Where?"

Jacob winks at Theodore.

Stella folds her arms, leering at Jacob. "Wow, we haven't seen each other in weeks and you want to ditch us?"