"KIM"

Chapter 26

Reunion

Two weeks had passed since that fateful night, and Jeff hadn't heard a word from Vegas. He didn't call, his phone was switched off, and his penthouse was locked. Each passing day gnawed at Jeff, worry and confusion clouding his mind. What had happened to Vegas?

That evening, feeling a heavy loneliness, Jeff decided to step out and buy dinner. He chose a nearby restaurant, hoping a change of scenery might lift his spirits. After picking up his order, he walked out into the cool night air, his thoughts still lingering on Vegas.

As Jeff walked towards his car, he stopped abruptly, his breath catching in his throat. Standing next to his car, illuminated by the streetlights, was Vegas. His face was tired, his eyes shadowed by weariness, but there was a softness in his gaze as he looked at Jeff.

"Vegas," Jeff whispered, barely believing his eyes.

Vegas stepped forward, his movements slow and deliberate. "Jeff," he said quietly, his voice carrying a weight of unspoken emotions.

Jeff dropped the bag of food and rushed to him, throwing his arms around Vegas in a tight embrace. "Where have you been?" he demanded, his voice breaking. "I was so worried. I thought... I thought something happened to you."

Vegas held Jeff close, his arms strong and comforting. "I'm sorry, Jeff. I had to handle some things, clean up the mess I made. I couldn't risk putting you and Nat in more danger."

Jeff pulled back slightly, searching Vegas's eyes. "You should have told me. We could have dealt with it together."

Vegas sighed, his expression filled with regret. "I know. I thought I was protecting you by keeping my distance, but I see now that I only caused you more pain."

Jeff reached up, cupping Vegas's face in his hands. "I don't care about what we have to deal with, Vegas. I just want you with us. We can handle anything together, as long as we're together."

Vegas leaned into Jeff's touch, closing his eyes for a moment as if savoring the connection. "I promise, Jeff. No more disappearing acts. From now on, we handle everything together."

They stood there for a moment longer, holding onto each other as if afraid to let go. Finally, Jeff pulled away, a small smile playing on his lips. "Come home with me. Nat's missed you, too."

Vegas nodded, his own smile breaking through the fatigue. "I'd like that."

Together, they got into the car and drove back to Jeff's apartment. As they walked through the door, Nat looked up from his spot on the couch, his eyes widening in surprise and joy.

"Vegas!" Nat exclaimed, jumping up and rushing to him.

Vegas knelt down, catching Nat in a hug. "Hey, buddy. I'm sorry I was gone for so long. I missed you."

Nat hugged him tightly. "I missed you too. Don’t leave us again, okay?"

Vegas looked over Nat's shoulder at Jeff, his eyes filled with determination. "I won't. I promise."

That night, as they sat together eating dinner, the air was filled with a sense of peace and unity. After dinner, once Nat was asleep, Jeff and Vegas found themselves alone in the quiet of the living room.

Vegas turned to Jeff, his eyes full of warmth and longing. "I missed you so much," he whispered.

Jeff stepped closer, his heart pounding. "I missed you too," he replied softly.

Their lips met in a gentle, tender kiss, the connection deepening as they held each other close. It was a kiss that spoke of all the love and longing they'd felt in the weeks they were apart, a promise of the future they would face together.

As they pulled away, their foreheads resting against each other, Jeff whispered, "I'm glad you're home."

Vegas smiled, a look of peace and determination in his eyes.

They stayed like that for a moment, savoring the closeness, before heading to bed, holding each other tight.

The road ahead might still be fraught with challenges, but together, they knew they could handle anything. And for the first time in weeks, Jeff felt a glimmer of hope, knowing that their family was whole once more.

Fin

Special chapter will upload in Saturday