A Midsummer Storm

Chapter 9

People were filtering out of their rooms looking like zombies dragging bags behind them. Rob was the only one looking chipper with a smile on his face. Tim told Red and Austin to help Rob pack up whatever groceries they could into the van that was worth keeping. Chance was outside making sure nothing traceable of theirs was left behind. Tim and Adam stood on the porch in the corner.

"Adam, listen to me. This is going to be a long journey. I understand this is the first time you've been away from here. (Tim rested his hands on Adam's hips and the blond didn't tense) Just make sure you never let go of me. We'll make stops every few hours for fuel and to piss." Tim explained, "We want to get there as quickly as possible so we can get settled as soon as possible. You'll be starting school soon. We'll get a hotel tonight and continue on tomorrow morning. Ok?"

"Ok."

"Can I kiss you?" Tim glanced down at the blonde's mouth making Adam bite his lower lip subconsciously.

Adam looked around and, seeing no one around, he nodded. Tim moved to cup Adam's face in both hands. The blond wasn't sure what he should do with his so he kept them at his side. As gently as he could, Tim pressed their lips together. Tim was sure he would never get tired of kissing Adam. Hearing Rob's laughter made Adam jerk away from the brunette. Tim had to calm his racing heart. He smiled warmly at the blond before slowly meandering over to inspect his bike.

"Uh, why are you doing that?" Adam pulled his brows together.

"Unlike riding in town, we're going on a much longer trip. It's customary to always look over your bike to make sure everything is working properly and there's nothing that might break while you're on the ride." Tim explained, overjoyed that Adam seemed to actually be taking an interest in their lifestyle.

"Oh." Adam stated, "I remember my dad saying he was going to get the fluids, brakes, and tires checked on the car once before they went on vacation. Is this the same thing?"

"Wait...your family went on vacation and left you at home by yourself?" Austin stood there with his jaw hanging open making the blonde quickly look away.

"Yes, Adam, to answer your question. This is a lot like that. I'm checking my brakes, my fluids too. My tires are pretty new so I don't need to check them. The rest will probably check theirs." Tim explained, "If any of them need new tires, we'll probably stop somewhere and get them some new ones or if they think the tires can hold out until we hit Orlando then we'll hit the highway."

"Look at that. Adam is actually asking questions! Can you believe it?" Red giggled.

"Maybe our little hostage is going to make a fine biker some day after all." Austin draped his arm around his girlfriend's shoulder with a laugh.

"Come on, guys! I need some help!" Rob shook his head as he looked at the redheaded couple staring out the front door.

"Sorry, Rob." Austin smirked, "Was watching Adam asking Tim questions."

"Come on, let's get this show on the road!" Tim yelled out as he hopped on his bike.

Adam followed suit as the rest finished loading up the van with their luggage and groceries. Chance was finished with his sweep of the grounds and inside. The trio had to look over their bikes so while they were doing that, Tim was setting his GPS for Orlando. Chance gave the thumbs up so Tim started his bike and began leading the group on their next journey. Chance rode on his right with Austin and Red behind them and Rob pulling up the rear in the van.

The blond held tightly to Tim as they sped down the highway. He couldn't shake the conversation he'd had with Tim the previous evening. Something profound had happened but he couldn't define it. How much had he missed out on? What had he been sheltered from? He knew about stuff. He remembered going to the movies with his parents and brother when he was young. He remembered going to restaurants with them.