Impenetrable Heart | The Oneshot Collection

Better Pt. 1

     A/N- Hi! So this story (it has multiple parts, so technically isn't a one-shot) is probably the darkest story to date. This includes many TW's of su*c*dal thoughts and ideation. If you are in any way sensitive, I highly suggest skipping over. This is what this story is based around, so sadly there are no specific areas that can be picked out. Stay safe, and know your limits. I love you all. <3

     ...

     I'm not supposed to be like this anymore.

     I can't be like this anymore.

     I'm better now.

     I'm better now.

     I'm supposed to be better now.

     "I think that's the last of it," John said, forcefully pushing down the cover of Alex's suitcase. "Are you sure you aren't forgetting anything?"

     "Yes, John, I'm sure."

     "How sure?"

     Alex gaped dramatically.

     "You have such little faith in me? I would never forget anything-"

     "Did you grab your toothbrush?"

     Alex faltered, walking away shamefully as John chuckled. The two were packing Alex for an out of state business club conference, which would last the better part of four days. Though he had gone on them in the past, it had been relatively close to home. This time, however, they would be flying in and out of state.

     "Okay, now that's the last of it," Alex said, tucking his brush into the pocket of his case. "Thanks again for helping me pack, Jackie."

     John laughed, wrapping his arms around Alex's waist from behind.

     "Anything to get you outta my hair."

     Alex chuckled lightly, gently resting his hands on top of John's as John buried his face into the back of Alex's shoulder. That laughter quickly faded, however, as he asked

"Are you sure you're alright?"

     I'm not.

     John pulled back, a confused smile tugging at his lips as Alex turned to face him.

     "Why wouldn't I be?"

     "You've just seemed, off these past few days," Alex said, distractedly running his hands up and down John's arms. "You don't smile as much."

     "Lex," John said softly. "I'm fine. Just a little stressed out from exams, s'all."

     "You sure?"

     "I'm positive. And if I'm correct, I think your ride is here."

     Sure enough, the sound of a faint car engine could be heard in the driveway. Dean Washington, (their advisor) was driving Alex, Thomas, James Madison, Aaron and a few others to and from the airport- which John commented on several times was a disaster waiting to happen.

     "I'll call you as soon as I can, and every chance I get thereafter, okay?" Alex promised, throwing on his coat.

     "Sounds good to me," John chuckled.

     Please don't leave me.

     "Everything sounds good to you," Alex murmured, placing a gentle kiss on John's lips.

     He pulled back for a moment, then smiled.

     "I love you."

     Before John had the chance to respond, Alex went back in for a second kiss- this one slightly longer than the last, which John didn't mind whatsoever. When they broke away, he laughed breathlessly, playfully slugging Alex's arm.