One Minute

Three weeks, Five days, and Two hours after

"Hey man! What's up?" Anthony looked at me questioningly as he got in my car and noticed my nervous expression.

"Nothing. I'm just tired."

"Well, then why'd you ask me to dinner?"

"I just wanted to spend time with you."

"Okay." Anthony said skeptically.

I started the car and drove toward the restaurant.

One hour. I'll tell him in one hour.
--
-3rd person POV-

Ian laughed at Anthony's joke as they were walking along the beach.

In reality, he had no idea what he said.

Ian's head was swimming with doubts and thoughts.

Do it now.

No, not now you idiot.

What if he rejects you?

Do it now.

Do it now. Do it now. Do it now.

"Anthony there's something I have to tell you." Ian blurted out, immediately regretting everything.

He can't go back now.

"Hmm?" said Anthony, looking at him curiously.

Ian let out a sigh.

Here we go.

"I love you. I've loved you since sixth grade. And when we almost died, I didn't know what to do. I thought I was a goner for sure. I couldn't live with the fact that I left without telling you how much you mean to me. I love you more than anything in the world. And I know you don't feel the same way, I just needed to get this out before something else happened to one or both of us." Ian looked down. "I never want to be that scared again."

Ian looked down and braced himself.

He waited.

And waited.

Then, after the most agonizing thirty seconds of his life, Anthony stepped forward.

Ian looked up at him, eyes watering.

And Anthony closed the gap between them.

All the angst, waiting, all the passion that came from the bad parts of their relationship were poured into that one kiss. And it was magical.

They had found their other half; they were complete together. Ian and Anthony, Anthony and Ian. No other way.

After God knows how long, Anthony pulled away so their foreheads were touching.

"I love you too. The only thing holding me together in that hospital was what you whispered in my ear before we blacked out."

"You heard-"

"Yes. And I was hoping that you actually feel the same way that I have for years. But now I see you do."

They smiled and kissed again.

"I've always wanted this."

"Me too."
--
stay tuned for the epilogue either tomorrow or today depending on how bored I am tonight