Epals

Chapter 23

Marco POV

Ace had just headed to the kitchen to make popcorn when my phone started to ring. The caller ID was from Law, who doesn't usually call when I am out with someone. I answer it, curious.

"Hello?"

"Hey. I have some rather bad news for you. I was at the hospital visiting your dad. They offered to call you instead, but I insisted it was me who called." Law's voice was soft, gentle really. When he mentioned my dad, I could feel the blood in my veins turn to ice and my heart skipped.

"Law, what happened?" I needed to know. I didn't want to know.

"I'm sorry. Your dad passed away while I was visiting him. He told me to tell you he loves you and he is very proud of you." I feel a choked sob escape, my breath shaky.

"I see. Thank you for telling me. I have to go, Ace will be back in a few moments."

"Okay. Promise me you wont push everyone away because of this. Especially Ace."

"I will do my best."

"Thank you." Law hangs up, and I drop my face into my hands, trying to hold all the tears back. I didn't want Ace to see me crying. However, it seems he might anyways. I hear Ace walk in and place the bowl op popcorn on the table, his soft words reaching my ears. Asking what's wrong.

My words are weak as I answer that my dad has passed away, and the couch dips slightly as Ace sits next to me. He takes my hand in his own, rubbing his thumb across the top of my palm.

"What will you do now?" The question is unexpected, thinking he would apologize even though it wouldn't really change anything. I think about it for a couple of minutes, not knowing what to answer. Then I realize the answer I want to give is an obvious one.

"Can I say the night with you? I don't want to be alone right now." I'm afraid of his rejection, clenching my eyes shut in anticipation of the blow to my heart for the second time that day. But the blow never comes. I look back up at him, since that seems to be what he is waiting for me to do.

His smile is calming, and there is a sadness in his eyes as he answers, "of course you can stay the night, Marco. I did tell you I would always be here if you needed me."

I smile at the answer and lean over into his side. Instead of pushing me away, he puts his arm across my shoulders and brings me deeper into his side while pressing play on the remote.

We stay like that for the whole movie, popcorn left forgotten on the table beside us.