When You Need Me | Scomiche

Chapter 13

     Mitch took an Uber from the airport to his parent's house this time, not wanting to inconvenience anyone. His mother's expression as he struggled to pull the suitcases in through the front door would've almost made the heartbreak worth it, but when he finally tugged them over the thresh hold and turned around to face his mother, he immediately broke down crying before he could explain himself. The second time in practically a week he hasn't been able to control his emotions in front of his mom. A soft "Oh, dear." and a loud "Mike!" was heard and he felt arms wrap around him and heard his suitcases rolling down the hallway to his room. Nel held him until he quieted down, and fortunately enough, didn't ask any questions. He knew both his parents had a ton if the looks they were giving him were any clue. He did just show up unannounced, crash in through the door, and break down crying without anyone saying a word, so he wouldn't be surprised if they thought he was going crazy. He felt like he was going crazy.

     Mike brought him a snack and some hot chocolate and Mitch smiled to himself at his dad's thoughtfulness. He scarfed them down then turned to his parents.

     "I'll explain things soon, okay? But first I have to go see Scott." They nodded their understanding and once again, he smiled at his dad's hospitality when car keys were placed in his hand.

     He drove to the Hoying's, confused that the place was dark. He checked the time, four-thirty, and remembered that they would be at the hospital this time. One U-turn and he was headed towards that direction. He found a spot relatively close and after he parked, he thought about calling Scott. What if they just want family in there right now? I don't want to intrude on anything. It wouldn't be proper to just show up uninvited. Mitch chewed on his bottom lip and found himself thinking about everything that happened in the past week. 

     He found out his best friend's mom had cancer, he reunited with said best friend after a year and a half of nothing, started repairing that relationship, flew home to a proposal from one of the best boyfriends he had ever had, rejected and broke up with that boyfriend via note, and got an almost maybe vibe of feelings from his best friend. His heart and brain were worn out and he just wanted to sleep for ten years. Mostly he was just confused with his hearts decisions. He had really, really, loved Beau. So why exactly did he say no to his proposal? He knew Scott confessing he didn't want Mitch to marry him was a part of that, but really and truly, he didn't want to marry Beau. Beau was amazing but, Mitch's heart was being brutally honest with his brain now. He's not Scott.

     Mitch let out a sob at this revelation and suddenly he was gasping, unable to catch his breath. He rolled down the window and sucked in the cold air which burned his throat and forced his lungs open. It helped calm him, and soon he was just sitting with his head propped on his arm against the door. Tears stung against the cold wind as they made his way down his cheeks. He sat like that for a long time, just staring out the windshield. When he came back to the present, he took a deep breath. He checked his phone again, five fifty-two. Wow, time flies when you are bawling your eyes out in the parking lot of a hospital. Mitch let out a chuckle at his thoughts. Hospital, right, that is what he was supposed to be doing. He looked around for Scott's car but spotted the man instead crossing the crosswalk into the parking lot. He grabbed his stuff, hopped out, and crossed the three rows of cars to catch up with Scott who was now putting the key in the lock.

     "Scott," It came out weak but he was only about 6 feet from the man. Scott turned his head to Mitch and blinked, a surprised and confused expression on his face.

     "Mitch?" He looked at the small person making a beeline in his direction and almost didn't turn himself in time to catch Mitch in a hug. He pulled back to look at Mitch's face and scrunched his eyebrows down when he saw his lashes clumped with tears and an overall devastated expression. "Baby" Mitch's eyes flicked up to his. "Why have you been crying?" Scott was fairly certain he knew the reason but didn't want to assume. Large hands covered the sides of Mitch's face and thumbs brushed along the sharp cheekbones. Scott's voice was soft and Mitch knew he made the right decision.