Tea Boy: A Deacury Fic

Chapter 35: Taking Care of Two and Going on That High

TW: Mentions of Seizures and Alcohol Use

-Freddie's POV-

I can tell today is going to be a long and emotional day because both Roger and John are really upset for different reasons. The blonde is sad because his boyfriend Brian kicked him out, but he wants to try to work things out. My partner John is feeling down due to guilt about being sober. I have to take care of both of them and give them some reassurance.

We wrapped up breakfast and served the mocktails just like I promised. Roger chugged his down and liked it, while John, being a little stubborn on the other hand, opted to let his sit on the coaster like a fancy decoration. "Darling, would you mind taking just a little sip of your drink, please? I remember how much you enjoyed it last time when you came home.", I implied. "Oh sure, that was the only reason I was thrilled to come home. I mean, I was just gushing about it because-wow-who knew you were ever a bartender? Life-changing revelation, really.", John said in a snarky yet sarcastic tone.

"If you'd like me to create something different, I'd be more than happy to do so.", I offered. "I'd rather suck it up and drink tea instead. I am a tea boy anyways, would you like some?", Deaky remarks blantantly. "Babe, what's with all these upsetting remarks? You're being a bit snarky. Are you feeling alright?", I inquired. "Well maybe he's gotten some mood swings.", Roger pondered chiming. "What do you mean by that, blonde boy?", I asked him.

"It seems he's experiencing the typical alcohol withdrawal symptoms a bit later than usual, especially the mood changes and anxiety. Generally, these symptoms start to fade after about 3 to 6 weeks. Let's be patient and supportive as he navigates through this!", he explained. "You're right, you're right, I'll do that. How did you know all of this by the way?", I sighed. "I knew this guy named Neil from uni who went through something similar to what John is facing now, but his situation was even tougher. Just two weeks after he quit drinking, he began having withdrawal seizures, and while it's usually more common for people in their 40s, Neil was only 25.", the blonde replies.

"That must have been quite frightening to witness. I sincerely hope John doesn't experience any seizures. I would be very concerned if I ever saw him like that.", I cringed at the thought of it, I don't want my baby with any other underlying conditions. "Don't worry, he'll do just fine, besides he's already been sober for two months. Be patient and supportive.", Roger reassures.

As the hours went by, things became a bit more calm. However, there were a couple of moments of distress, but I was there to soothe them with a black and white romance movie and some comforting words. I sat nearby in case anything else upsets them. In moments of distress, I felt like a mum watching over her two young children trying to settle them down. So far they've remained calm and collected.

As I prepared dinner, I found myself wondering what Brian was up to since he asked Roger to leave. He must be feeling quite conflicted, as I doubt he intended to handle the situation that way. I had a tempted feeling to at least give him a call and check up on him.
To my surprise after handing over the youngins their plates, the phone in the bedroom rang, I paced inside and answered, "Hello?"

"Hey Fred, it's Brian. Listen, I was wondering if I could come over your place tomorrow." Brian was on the other line, I couldn't believe it.

"Hey Brian....yes of course, I'm so glad to hear from you...sure sure.... I understand... sure thing, see you tomorrow." After I hung up, I heard the two talking over dinner. I shut the door and tuned in to what they were talking about, even though everything was muffled.

"Lately, I can't shake the feeling that Brian and I don’t love each other the way we used to..."

"Oh, come on, Rog. I seriously doubt that. You two are perfect for each other."

"Thanks. But honestly, we’ve grown so distant—we hardly even speak now. I just hope he’s not too upset about me asking him to leave."

"Even if he is, give it time. He’ll come around. I really believe that."

"You're right. I shouldn’t doubt it. Who knows—maybe he’ll stop by tomorrow."

"Tomorrow? You think he might?"

"Maybe. He could come check on me... or even just to see Freddie."

Perhaps they are already aware of Brian's upcoming visit. I'm not entirely sure what the purpose is, as he hasn't mentioned it. John must've put the dishes away because I heard clanking noises in the kitchen moments later after their little conversation.

"We could head to bed soon... unless you're still up for a while?"

"Not really tired. Just... a little too full to move right now."

"Maybe later, if you’ve got the room, we could have some dessert."

"Yeah, that sounds fine. I don’t mind."

"Or maybe we could—"

"John. No. You’re sober now, remember?"

"...I know. I just thought—one sip of this raspberry wine wouldn’t hurt."

"That’s how it starts, though. One sip turns into two. Then we’re right back to square one."

"I didn’t mean anything by it. I just... I really miss the feeling of shutting everything off for a while."

"I know you do, but you’ve come so far, Deaky. Don’t throw that away just because tonight feels a little heavy."

"It’s not just for tonight, you fool. It’s... it’s the silence. The space between us. Sometimes I just don’t know how to fill it in."

"Then talk to me, John. Don’t reach for the bottle—reach for me."

"...You really think that’s enough, Roger?"

"I have to. Because if it’s not, then what are we even trying to save?"

Hearing this conversation, I decided to find out what was going on. "Is everything alright in here?", I asked. "I'm sure you've heard it all, Fred. It's all Blondie's fault.", John hummed. "Hey, it's not my fault. You're the one who wants to drink again!", Roger pointed out. "Oh boo hoo! Look, whenever someone is being committing to being sober, they want to drink one more time!", my partner retaliates. "That shit's not true!", the blonde argued. "Yes it is-"

"That's enough! John, in case you're wondering, yes I did eavesdrop on your recent conversation! I swear if you have a bottle around here somewhere, I'm gonna need you to pour it out in the sink! I'm only asking you to do this one task.", I sighed.

"Urggh, you son of a bitch!", he spat angrily and stomped his way in the kitchen. "I mean it, pour it out if you have it!", I demanded. I observed as he took a tall bottle of raspberry wine from the pantry. He looked at me with a bit of frustration while he opened it and poured all forty ounces. The strong smell coming from the sink made me cover my nose. At least he had the good sense to run water for a few minutes to help rinse it away. It was thrown out in the garbage.

"There! The damn bottle’s finished and thrown out! Is that finally good enough for the both of you?!", he seethed stepping back in. "Yes much better.", I simply replied. "You guys are the worse I swear!", he ranted with a quiver in his voice. "Babe, please don't be like—"

I attempted to approach him, but Roger held me back shushing me. "Ignore it, he'll eventually calm down.", he whispered to me. I wanted to hug him, he seemed so hurt on the inside. I didn't want him to suffer, but he needs something to fill the void. I watched as he stomped into the bedroom and heard him slam the door.

"What are we gonna do about him?", I asked. "To be honest Freddie, I don't know, but he will be okay. He has us.", the blonde reassured.

I honestly hope he's right.