Touched 16
by Redkage
“Three weeks.” Simon hung his head, his voice laced with despair as he said this. “We have only three weeks of time together left, four at the very most.”
Sophie gasped, Jamal stared and Howard’s jaw dropped at the sudden news. Then they began to ask questions rapidly, looking at each other in disbelief and causing a scene in the middle of the hallway for everyone in the school to see. And Simon didn’t blame them for their reaction. He had almost completely lost it when Logan had told him that very morning. Briefly Simon explained what had happened, and was fully prepared to receive a full sermon of nonstop angry yelling.
But instead, they all looked at him understandingly. There was a bit of pity and sadness, but they all forgave him. However, Simon didn’t want their pity. He wanted them to yell at him for making such a reckless act. He wanted them to tell him how stupid he was for allowing it to happen, to let it go this far, for taking Logan’s life away.
But they didn’t blame him. Not in the slightest.
“You’re putting yourself down too hard.” Jamal tried to reassure him during football practice later that afternoon. Simon had been playing so poorly that the coach ordered him to sit out on the bench to cool off and clear his head. Soon after he sat out, Jamal followed and sat down next to him.
“I haven’t been putting myself down enough.” Simon corrected him gloomily. “After all, I’m the cause of his…his…” God, he couldn’t even finish saying it.
Jamal patted his friend’s back. “No one blames you, man. Even though I’ve only known him for a short time, Logan seems like the kind of person who wouldn’t hold any grudges or regret at all. And besides, I’d think he’d want you to pull yourself together for the state championship game. He’s a bigger football fan then the both of us!”
“You’re right, that’s just like him.” Simon sighed deeply. “It’s just…he’s just so wonderful, and I love him so much.”
“I know man.” Jamal said. “We all do. And I’m sure Logan knows that as well.”
“Thanks.” Simon smiled weakly at him.
“So, think you can make it through practice?” Jamal gave Simon a hearty slap on the back.
“I’ll try.” Simon’s smile grew a bit stronger.
* * *
Why do they have to make textbooks so thick and heavy? Logan wondered as he trudged along through the hallway. Even though he knew he was already failing and wasn’t going to make it to the end of the school year, he still carried them to class and studied diligently. However, his books felt like they weighed a ton, and feeling heavier every minute. Struggling under the weight of his backpack, he made his way towards the cafeteria where he had promised to meet Simon.
Suddenly strong hands gripped the straps of his backpack and lifted the weight off of his shoulders. Turning around, Logan found himself staring at the bottom of a very large chest covered by a white linen dress shirt. Speak of the devil Logan thought to himself. He looked up and smiled at the handsome face far above him. “Hey Simon, I thought we were going to meet up at the cafeteria?”
Simon bent forward slightly so Logan could see his face easier past his pec shelf. “You were late, so I came to see if something was wrong.” His voice wrought with concern.
“I dozed off during class.” Logan told him. “So the teacher held me back to lecture me.” Lately he had been feeling very tired and sleepy all the time. Try as he might, he couldn’t keep himself awake during the teacher’s boring lesson and had fallen asleep at the desk. He might have gotten away with it before he had started to snore. Snore very, very loudly.
Simon nodded, and then weighed the backpack in his hands thoughtfully. “Logan, were you having trouble carrying this?”
At first he considered lying, but then he decided that he was too tired to make up a feasible lie that could fool him. “Yes, just a little.”
Simon lifted it up a little higher, his bicep swelling more from the movement then from the effort. Even though Logan had been sweating under the weight of his books, it was a practically nothing in Simon’s strong, sinewy hands.
“If you’re done checking it out, hand back my backpack so we can get something to eat before the lunch period ends.” Logan reached out for his bag, but Simon pulled it out of reach.
“From now on I’ll carry all of your stuff for you.” Simon told him.
“Thank you, but you don’t have to.” Logan again reached for his backpack, but Simon adamantly refuses to give it back.
“It’s my duty as your boyfriend to carry your stuff.” Simon told him firmly. “So pipe down and let me do my job. And from now on I’m walking you to each of your classes, so you better wait for me after every period, alright?”
The corners of Logan’s eyes crinkled. “A-alright.”
“Now that that’s settled, let’s eat.” Simon said cheerfully, trying to lighten the mood a bit. “I’m sure you’re starving by now.”
“Y-yea.” Logan nodded. He didn’t really have the heart to tell him that lately his appetite for food had all but disappeared. After they walked together for a bit holding hands, Logan suddenly stopped. When Simon turned to look at him he tiptoed upwards and moved in for a kiss, but Simon’s head automatically evaded it.
Crushed, Logan pulled back. “Sorry, I didn’t mean to-”
“No, it’s not your fault.” Simon cut him off. “My body moved on its own. I just…well, I guess I just don’t want to cut your life any shorter.”
“I already told you, my Dad said that the transfer is already at its full potency.” Logan said to him. “Which means any more contact between the two of us won’t make a difference anymore. But, I guess kissing you in public is too embarrassing for you, especially at school.”
“Logan?”
“Yes?”
Simon leaned forward and kissed Logan smack on the lips. The pleasant warmth that spread through the little guy’s body was so good that his rear left foot involuntarily lifted upwards. When they were done, he was suddenly aware of the stares people were making towards the two of them.
“Do any of you have a problem with me kissing my boyfriend?” Simon challenged. Right away the crowd broke off and moved on. When they were out of the spotlight, Simon turned back to Logan and looked into his eyes. “I will never, ever be embarrassed by you, no matter what. Whatever they think about the two of us kissing is their problem, not ours, got that?”
Wide eyed, Logan nodded.
“Good.” Simon smirked. “Now, let’s hurry up and get to the cafeteria before something else happens. At this rate, lunch period will be over before we get to take a bite.”
* * *
Howard hesitated outside the girl’s bathroom for a brief second before he pushed the door open and entered. “Sophie?” He called out.
He didn’t receive any response, but he could distinctly hear the sounds of someone crying. Quietly he made his down the stalls until he reached the last one and knocked on the door.
“Go away!” Sophie said in between sobs.
“Sophie, it’s me.” Howard said.
“H-Howard?” Sophie sniffed. “Who told you I was in here?”
“Your friend Lisa did.” Howard said. “Now open up and let me talk to you.”
“No, I’ll be fine.” She said. “Just…just give me a few minutes and I’ll be out, so don’t worry about me. You should leave before someone comes in and sees you.”
“Your friend’s are on lookout duty.” Howard told her. “Now hurry up and open the door already.”
“N-no, I’ll be okay.”
“Sophie...”
“No!”
“Why not?”
“I…don’t want you to see me like this.” She sobbed.
Howard stood outside her stall, listening to her quiet sobbing. He turned and leaned his back against the stall door. “Sophie…you don’t have to carry your burdens all by yourself. I’m here for you, and I’ll always be by your side. So please, let me in so I can help you.”
“Thank you Howard.” Sophie sniffed. “I know I can always depend on you, but I just don’t want you to see me in such a sorry state.”
Howard hung his head slightly. “Can we at least talk about what’s bothering you?”
At first there was no response. Then Sophie let out a deep breath. “How can two people who are so…so perfect for each other have their relationship ended like this? They’ve finally get to be with one another, but now…now it’s too late. I’m going to lose one of my dear friends in less then a month.”
“We both knew that Logan’s life was going to be short.” Howard didn’t have to ask to know who she was talking about.
“But if I hadn’t meddled in their affairs, Logan would have had at least a few more years left.” Sophie sobbed. “But if I didn’t, then they would have both been miserable. Did I do the right thing to help get them together? Or should I have stayed out of their business? Oh Howard, I just don’t know.”
“I think we made the right decision.” Howard told her. “I’ve never seen the two of them happier.”
“But it won’t last.” She said. “After Logan passes away, what’ll happen then? They’ll all probably hate me for doing this, and they have every right. I’ve robbed years off of Logan’s life. I don’t think I can deal with all that guilt.”
“No one can ever hate you, Sophie.” Howard told her. “You’re too good a person. And you don’t have to carry the burden all alone. I’m always by your side. Plus, I had a hand in getting those two together as well, so you’re not the only one who has the right to feel guilty.”
The sobs became muffled laughs, making Howard think that he had said something right. Eventually the crying died down in the stall until it stopped completely.
“Sophie?”
“Sorry, but can you leave? I have to clean myself up.” Sophie told him. “I really do love you Howard, but I’m not going to let anyone see me in this state if I can help it.”
* * *
Simon stared at the dark ceiling of his room, unable to sleep. He was lying on top of the covers, and his light was still off. It was already past midnight, but he could not drift into slumber. It wasn’t like he needed to sleep that much anyhow. With all the new energy he was receiving from his bond to Logan, he felt he could go for days on end without sleeping a wink. Or, rather yet, he was afraid to.
Lately, he had been experiencing a recurring nightmare. In this nightmare, he is walking slowly down a dimly candle lit room. At the very end of the room was a large black coffin. Each step towards the big black box, his clothes became tighter as he began to grow. Larger and larger he became, his bones stretching up to make him taller and his muscles pumping themselves bigger with each breath. Halfway down the path, loud tearing sounds would fill the air as he started to outgrow his clothes. His shirt ripped down the middle as his chest rounded out like melons. His arms shredded his sleeves as they grew to the size of two full blown basketballs. His back widened out vastly, destroying the back of his shirt completely. Simon’s quads swells bigger and bigger until they pressed into each other, making them roll around the other as he walked forward towards the coffin. Even though he was terrified he was unable to stop himself, his legs keep on moving him towards that black box until finally he was in front of it. By then, he had grown into a one ton, 8 foot high muscle beast. Then, he would lift up the lid and find Logan inside.
As if that weren’t enough, Logan would then begin to shrink right before his eyes. He watched as the body became thinner and thinner, ever ounce of size flowing directly into him! Bigger he grew, while Logan’s form became smaller. It was like watching Stephen King’s Thinner in action. He wanted to scream, but his voice was caught in his throat. He wanted to run, but his legs were frozen in place. He could only watch in horror as he got bigger while Logan became smaller and smaller until he became a bleached out white skeleton that would finally crumble into a cloud of dust. This dust didn’t simply settle, but swirl around him as it choked him as it entered into his body through any way it can. The dust pushed its way through his nose, mouth, ears and eyes, even through his bare ass and belly button until every single last particle was absorbed into his body, leaving over ten feet high covered with engorged muscles. After that, he would finally bolt upright in his bed completely soaked with sweat.
Silently he shivered. He was scared shitless just thinking about it. He could avoid sleeping rather easily, but he was unable to control the things he thoughts, especially during the dead of night. Dead. Logan was going to be…
He growled as he thrashed his limbs. No, he mustn’t think about that! To take his mind off of things, he flicked on his magic lighter, watching how his thumb became aflame without burning his skin. He flicked it off and on in rapid succession, trying to focus on something other then death.
I wonder what Logan is thinking about now? Simon asked himself absentmindedly. Even though he knew Logan would be asleep, he reached out with his mind until he connected himself with his boyfriend.
To his surprise, he suddenly found himself lying on his back in a dimly candle lit room. For a moment his stomach knotted when he thought he was having his nightmare once again, but somehow the atmosphere wasn’t terrifying or foreboding at all. In fact, it was almost romantic. And when he saw that the bed he was lying on was covered with rose petals, he became sure that this was far from any nightmare he’s ever had.
“So big guy, are you ready now?”
Simon looked up, and his jaw dropped. Standing at the foot of the bed was Logan, wearing nothing but an open bathrobe. But it wasn’t his nudity that shocked Simon. It was the fact that Logan actually looked healthy! This Logan stood at about six foot high, and weighed around 130 lbs. of lean muscle. Even the acne had cleared up, revealing his gorgeous face.
“L-Logan, h-how…?” Simon stared at him.
“Shhh…” Logan leaned forward and pressed his finger against Simon’s lips. “No need to speak.” Then he began to climb onto the bed.
Simon thought fast. What was going on? Had he somehow fallen into some sort of alternate dimension like the Twilight Zone? He had only tried to connect with Logan’s mind to see what he was thinking about.
And then the answer came to him. He wasn’t simply in Logan’s mind; he was in Logan’s dream. Somehow, he tapped into Logan’s subconscious and entered the dream that Logan had been having. Not only that, but he seemed to have become a part of the dream as well, taking on the point of view of his own dream figure. And when Logan ripped off his shirt and began to feel up his huge pectoral, he realized that it even felt real. He was aware of his real body back in his room, but at the same time he was experiencing this dream almost like it was really happening to him at that very moment.
“You’re so big and strong, Simon.” Logan said as he laid his body down on top of Simon’s huge torso. “And you’re incredibly hot too.” He added as he stroked Simon’s flawless skin.
Simon let out a low, shuddering breath as he felt his cock grow hard. He reached out and wrapped his arms around Logan’s waist and pulled him closer so he could kiss him. God, he could even taste his lips. He could even faintly smell that unique sweet and spicy scent of cinnamon. Already his dick was hard, both real and dream.
“So how big are those guns of yours now?” Logan asked as his hand skimmed Simon’s biceps.
“26 inches.” He stated. Then he flexed his arm. He watched Logan’s eyes grow wider as the bicep rose higher and higher until it was a fully peaked mountain. “And that’s just unflexed.”
A low sexy growl rumbled in Logan’s throat, licking Simon’s nerves. The fire was fueled even more when Logan began to kiss and lick his neck and shoulder. Simon threw his head back and hissed as his little guy moved down and began to suck on his nipple, biting it gently with his teeth. For a guy who only had sex once before, Logan sure knew how to have sex.
Simon was vaguely aware that his boxers were being pulled off by Logan in the dream, though he himself was pulling off his real boxers himself and began to jack off, just as the dream Logan started to stroke his tool. The feeling of pre beginning to dribble from his cock tip was so real that it was almost intoxicating! This was far better then any porn video anyone could ever make up!
Grinning broadly, Logan moved down to stare at the one-eyed monster, and at the milky white substance that flowed from the mushroom head. Then, with a wink, he took the huge cock head into his mouth and began to give Simon a blow job.
Oh shit this was so hot! Simon thrust his hips forward to be serviced. While Logan was sucking on the huge cock, the little guys hand was slowly stroking the huge dick with his tiny hands. Simon cried out Logan’s name loudly as his blood raced to his dick, his huge balls churning to produce a huge amount of seed inside. He groaned loudly as his thrust his hips and jacked off faster and harder, his body heating up as he came closer and closer and closer until…
Rapture.
His dick exploded in a volcanic explosion of seman, gushing out of the sides of Logan’s mouth. He could feel the hot, wet stickiness of the fresh cum splattered on his abs and chest. Logan sucked and drank as much of the musky liquid as he could, his own dick spewing its load until finally both their manhoods subsided.
Now thoroughly exhausted, Simon just laid back on the bed and relaxed, his nostrils filled with the scent of flowers, cinnamon, and musk. Logan too settled down right next to him, and looked at him with that loving look. Soon he couldn’t even sense his real body anymore, though he did know it was still back at home for some reason. He must’ve fallen asleep after that huge orgasm, though his mind was still connected with Logan’s dream.
“This has been the best wet dream I’ve ever had.” Logan sighed as he laid his head against Simon’s beefy arm, using the bicep as a makeshift pillow. “Thanks for coming into my dream.”
An eyebrow cocked up. “How do you know I’m not a part of this dream?” Simon asked.
“Of course I know you’re not a part of my dream.” Logan acted offended. “I realized it the moment I saw that you were wearing clothes. You’re always naked in all of my dreams.”
That got a laugh out of him. “Well, I think I feel flattered that I’m the main object of your wet dreams.”
“Well, you should be.” Logan smiled. He reached up and began to trace a pattern in the cum that had splattered on Simon’s huge chest, running his finger across the broad surface. “Listen, my dreams are always open to you if you need me. Here, you won’t have to worry about nightmares.”
Simon half rose to gaze at him. “How did you know I was having nightmares?”
“I’m your boyfriend, I can tell.” He replied simply. “So, whenever you’re feeling restless at night, come into my dreams so I can help, alright?”
“Alright.” Simon nodded. “Just one question though; why do you look like that?”
Logan looked down at his athletic body. “Don’t you find this attractive?” He looked somewhat vulnerable when he asked.
Simon twisted his body around so that he could kiss him on the forehead. “I do, but I love you for who you are, no matter what you look like. So next time, you don’t have to make a fake body…though I’ll admit, you do look hot.”
Logan’s eyes twinkled as he gave him a mischievous grin. “How about this; I’ll take on whatever form you want me to be, and you’ll promise that we’ll continue to fuck until one of us is too exhausted or we wake up. Deal?”
“Deal.” Simon grinned cockily, remembering how he had fucked the entire cheer squad in one night. Logan was about to have one hell of a wet dream.
* * *
Riley sat on the park bench with his shoulders sagging down and his face long. It was very late at night, but he didn’t really notice the time of day anymore. He looked positively horrible. His hair was a mess, and his skin was pale. There were dark bags under his eyes from the lack of sleep, and his bloodshot eyes betrayed him of the fact that he had been crying. Despite gripping his knees tightly, his body was unsteady.
A large guy wearing a letterman jacket appeared, carrying two steaming cups of coffee in his hands. He is built like a power lifter, with dark hair and eyes, but most noticeably was his cleft chin that only served to make him look more masculine. He was a rather handsome looking guy, but his face was wrought with concern.
“Here.” He said as he sat down next to Riley. “I got you your favorite, cinnamon spice latte.”
Riley looked up and smiled. “Thanks Troy.” He reached for the cup with a shaky hand.
Instead of handing it to him, Troy pressed the rim of the cup to Riley’s lips. “Here, just drink.”
Riley gulped down the hot liquid as it entered his mouth. Immediately he felt some warmth returned to his body. Troy gave the coffee to Riley is small doses, giving him time to allow the caffeine to work its magic. Slowly, his shaking began to subside and some of the color returned to his cheeks.
Once he was doing better, Riley took the cup from Troy’s hand. “Thank you. I really needed that Troy.”
“It’s the least I can do for you, Riley.” Troy said as he took a sip from his own cup. “For the past seven years, I haven’t been able to do anything but watch as you suffer. Even if it’s something small, I’d do anything to help you.”
“I’m…sorry.” Riley rubbed his thumb around the rim of his cup. “I…I didn’t mean to drag you into my problems.”
“What are you talking about?” Troy wrapped his arm around Riley. “We’re Arour Dian’s, aren’t we? For rich or for poor, sickness or in health, remember? Your problems are my problems too.”
Riley closed his eyes and laid his head on Troy’s shoulder. “You were wrong about before, Troy, about not being able to do anything. You’ve done so much for me. If…if it weren’t for you, I don’t know where I’d be right now.”
“I’ll always be here for you.” Troy told him. “Always.”
Riley closed his eyes, and the two of them just sat there on the park bench. Then all of a suddenly Riley broke down and began to weep uncontrollably.
“He’s my brother. He’s my little brother!” He sobbed. “He’s only in high school; he’s too young to die like this! It’s not fair! He doesn’t deserve this! It’s not…fair…” After that, all he could manage were muffled sobs as he buried himself into Troy’s jacket while the linebacker held him close and did his best to comfort his love.
* * *
“What were you thinking, coming out to watch me?” Simon nearly yelled, but he managed to restrain himself just enough. He had just finished playing their last game before the championship match against Bayville High, so he was still dressed in his pads and jersey. Despite his enhanced strength and size, he had played pretty badly. His concentration was a complete wreck, and it didn’t help when he realized that Logan was in the stands cheering him on.
“I always come to your games.” Logan told him.
“That was before we found out you only had a few weeks left to live!” Simon snapped at him. “Your immune system is so weak that it’s almost AIDS level already. Despite how cold it is tonight, you came up dressed only wearing a windbreaker? Dammit, do you want to catch pneumonia or something?”
“I already told you I was going to live my life to the fullest.” Logan said defiantly. “And besides, I’m going to die soon anyways. What’s a little runny nose to me?”
“Stop talking like that!” Simon grabbed him by the arms and shook him violently. “Stop talking as if you don’t care about yourself! I don’t want you to speak as if the length of your life isn’t important, because it is!”
“Simon, Simon!” Jamal rushed up to him and yanked at his arm. “Let him go, you’re hurting him!”
Simon gasped and dropped him. Logan collapsed onto the ground, his eyes screwed shut and his lips pressed tightly together. Jamal quickly knelt next to him and gingerly felt Logan’s arms.
“I think they’re broken.” He announced. “I’ll go get Mr. Warden to fix this up right away, so don’t move.” He stood up and left at a dead run.
Simon looked down at Logan, his face a complete wreck. “I…I didn’t mean to…I…I-I…”
“It’s okay, I know you didn’t mean to hurt me.” Logan forced himself to smile despite the pain he was obviously feeling.
“I’m…I’m sorry.” Simon fell on his hands and knees before him. “Oh God, I’ve done it again.”
“Done what?”
“Hurt you!” Simon sobbed. “I’ve been hurting you over and over again for seven years. I don’t deserve you, dammit. Shit, why don’t you hate me? How can you love someone who does you so much harm?”
“Hey, it’s not like you do it on purpose.” Logan tried to reach out to comfort him, but winced as pain shot up from his broken arms. “You just sometimes get too excited and lose control, that’s all.”
“I just wish I can make it up to you somehow.”
“Well, you could treat me to another splendid dream tonight.”
A bright flush crept up Simon’s thick neck and into his surprised face. “I’ll do my best.”
* * *
“Step on the scale please.” The nurse ordered.
Simon, clad only in his boxers, did as he was told. He watched the numbers flash by until it settled. 568 lbs., 0.08% body fat. The numbers of a pure muscle freak.
“Step off the scale please, and then stand against the wall there.” The nurse pointed towards where the ruler to measure height was. Obediently Simon stood against the ruler and waited as nurse brought out a stool to stand on in order to see the measurement. When she stepped off and wrote the number in his file, Simon made a quick peek. He was now 7’3”, at 568 lbs. of sheer muscle. Even though most of his mass was compacted to increase his density, his size never the less was still mind blowing. He watched as the nurse took various measurements of several bodyparts, and out of habit he tucked the numbers in the back of his head. 28 ½ inch arms, 72 inch chest, 41 inch quads, 26 inch calves and a damn skinny 28 inch waist. Even among pro bodybuilders, those numbers would have been enough to completely dominate the competition.
After all of the measurements were done, the nurse took Simon into the examination room and gestured for him to take a seat. “Please wait here and the doctor will see you in a moment.” She told him, and then left.
Simon sat on the chair almost nervously, like he was once again a five year old that was expecting a shot. He didn’t have to wait long before Dr. Warden walked through the door.
“Alright Simon, what seems to be the problem?” He asked as he sat himself down, already writing in his file. “The teachers demanding another drug test?”
“No, that’s not it.” Simon said.
“Oh, so it’s a health check up?” Dr. Warden flipped a page and continued to write. “Well hopefully this time they’ll listen when we tell them that you’re as fit as a horse.”
“It’s not that either, sir.” Simon said. “I’m not here because of the school or anything like that?”
“You’re not?” Dr. Warden set his pen down and turned around, looking at him intently. “Well, what are you here for son?”
“It’s…about my strength.” He told him.
“Is something wrong with it?” Dr. Warden questioned.
“It’s too much!” He blurted out. “I mean, I was happy about it at first, but lately I’ve been losing control a lot more.”
“You’ll learn how to control it eventually, Simon.” Dr. Warden assured him. “It just takes practice.”
“No, I need control now!” Simon slammed his hands on his knees. “God, I keep on wrecking things all around me, and the other day I even harmed Logan! So please, do something about it before I hurt him even more!”
Harold removed his glasses and looked at the big stud. “Simon, it wasn’t your fault and he’s completely healed now. I should know since I fixed him. It was only an accident.”
“That I caused with my own hands!” He brought up his huge paws. His hands were huge and sinewy. One look at them told people that he could probably crush rocks into sand if he wanted to. “I broke your son’s arms for God’s sake. Shouldn’t you want to do something about this?”
“Even if I wanted to, there’s nothing I could do about…limiting your strength.” Harold informed him calmly. “I neither have the ability, nor the resources to do that. And besides, you are a very capable young man. I’m sure that with proper training, you will be able to control your strength 100% of the time. Here, I have something for you.”
Dr. Warden pulled a pamphlet from his desk and handed it to Simon. A brief look told Simon that it was a class for warrior type Kin-Lam with strength control problems. “Do you think this will help?” He asked.
“It’s highly recommended.” Howard nodded. “This course guarantees complete control within three months.”
A wretch formed inside of him. Still, he said his thank you and got dressed again before leaving. Once outside, he ripped up the pamphlet and threw it in the trash.
By the time he finished the three month class, it would already be too late.
* * *
“Take it easy Logan, there’s no need to rush.” Simon chided his boyfriend as he walked him to class. They were moving very slowly through the hallways, with Logan holding onto Simon for support. Each time he lifted his leg, he would shake slightly until both of his feet were on the ground.
Logan looked up and smiled a bit weakly. “If I go any slower, I’ll be late again.” He told him.
“No you’re not.” The quarterback argued. “You’re three minutes early, so take your time and save your energy.”
“Okay.” Logan nodded, and Simon felt his heart clench up. Usually Logan would have made a snappy comeback and argued. Now, he simply didn’t have the energy and the wit to do that anymore. It was a sign of Logan’s continuing deterioration. Logan was so weak now that he could barely walk properly by himself. He just looked so tired and worn out. His skin took an unhealthy pale color and there were dark bags under his eyes. And he was so thin! It looked as if a good sneeze would snap him in two. Perhaps it was due to his increased height, but Logan appeared to have lost and inch or two in height as well.
It’s like he has gotten old. He was becoming so old and nearing the end of his life, the body aching for eternal rest. It was such a depressing thought that Simon didn’t notice they had arrived at Logan’s classroom until he nearly passed it.
“Here you go sweetie.” Simon said as he guided Logan to his desk. Logan smiled as he lowered himself into his seat and Simon set his backpack on the ground right next to him.
In the corner of his eyes, he saw that several boys were sitting stiffly in their desks, trying to look natural but failed miserably. They were former bullies who used to pick on Logan until Simon had a firm word with them.
A corner of his mouth lifted. “I’m going to leave now honey, but if anything bothers you-” The bullies stiffened up. “-tell me right away and I’ll deal with it.”
Logan looked around the classroom as the bullies involuntarily flinched before he motioned Simon to come close.
“Don’t think I don’t know what you’re trying to do.” He whispered.
“What, a guy can’t be protective of his boyfriend?” Simon whispered back.
Instead of a retort, Logan kissed him on the cheek. “I’ll see you after class.”
* * *
Julia took a deep breath as she climbed up the stairs towards Logan’s room. No matter what, she had to put up a strong front for everyone. She had spent too many years being as fragile as a crystal decanter. Every little mishap had threatened to smash her to a million tiny pieces.
And then Simon came back into their lives. Suddenly the house was filled with laughter again, and it took away the burden she had been carrying. Seeing everyone’s happy face made her feel like they were a real family once again. She finally had her little boy back. Logan was even calling her ‘mom’ again. However, that happiness was short lived, and now they were nearing a very bleak ending.
But, after seeing the courage and willpower of her little boy, she had finally found the strength she had been lacking all these years.
So, holding her head high she pushed open the door to Logan’s room to wake her son up. When she came inside, as she had expected the lump under the blanket had yet to move. Even with the alarm clock blaring at full volume Logan was still hiding under the covers to try to block out the noise, as pointless as it was.
Putting a smile on her face, Julia walked to her son’s bedside and gently shook her son’s sleeping form.
“Logan, sweetie, it’s time to get up.” She said.
“I’m awake.” Logan’s voice came clear through the sheets.
Surprise flickered across her face. She pulled the covers off and sure enough, Logan was lying fully awake in bed. “Well if you’re awake, then get out of bed already. I’ve made blueberry pancakes for you today.”
“If I could get out of bed, I would have done so already.” Logan told her.
Something about what he said caused a chill to form inside of her. “What is it honey?”
“I…I think you need to call Dad.”
That cold feeling in the pit of her stomach grew stronger. “Logan, what’s wrong?”
“I…can’t get up.”
* * *
Simon went through the hospital hallways as quickly as he could without actually running. A few times he nearly ran down several nurses, doctors and other visitors, but his enhanced reflexes allowed him to avoid collision. He counted the doors under his breath, searching for the one he was looking for. Finally, he arrived at the designated room number and burst through the door.
“Logan! Where’s Logan?” He cried the moment he stepped into the room.
The first people he saw were Logan’s parents. Mr. and Mrs. Warden turned around and looked at Simon in surprise. “Simon!” Mrs. Warden blinked in surprise. “Shouldn’t you be in school?” While Mrs. Warden was still dressed in her usual clothes, Mr. Warden had already donned his doctor’s attire.
“Where’s Logan?” Simon demanded, ignoring her.
“I’m right here.”
Mr. and Mrs. Warden stepped aside to allow Simon to move past them. Behind them, Simon found Logan lying in the hospital bed. He had set the bed to recline so he would be able to sit upright. His clothes were replaced with the standard hospital gown, and although he had removed his gloves he still had his bandages on to hide his hideous scars.
“Logan!” Simon was immediately at his bed side. “Are you alright?”
“No, I’m not alright.” Logan said sternly. “Where are my flowers?”
Simon blinked at him. “Flowers?” He repeated, to see if he heard right.
“Well, that’s what you usually get for a person in the hospital, right?” Logan said crossly. “As my boyfriend, I would have thought that you’d have gotten me a dozen roses or at least a teddy bear with some balloons. I’m terribly disappointed in you.”
Simon gawked at him. It wasn’t until Logan burst out laughing did he relax, and somewhat stupid. “You were just kidding.” He accused him.
“Well of course I was!” Logan told him between chuckles. “Though, I’ll have to admit some flowers would have been nice.”
“Then I guess it was a good idea that we took the time to pick some up from the gift shop.” Howard said as he, Sophie and Riley walked in. Riley was holding a big teddy bear in his hands while Howard and Sophie carried flowers and balloons. Wordlessly they came up to Logan and deposited their gifts onto his bed.
“Aww, thanks you guys.” Logan smiled at them, and then turned his attention back at Simon. “See that? You should learn a thing or two from them. They know how to treat me right.”
“I was more concerned about finding if you were alright.” Simon told him somewhat defensively. “I was really worried.”
“I know you were.” Logan patted Simon’s hand affectionately. “I’m just teasing. Though I expect presents the next time you come around.”
The corner of Simon’s mouth lifted up slightly before it fell back down. “So…you’re okay with all of this? About losing the strength to even get out of bed?”
“Well it’s not like I have much of an option.” He shrugged. “And I knew I would become bedridden soon anyways, so it’s not much of a surprise.”
“So, that’s it?” Simon asked. “No final wishes, no regrets?”
“Well,” Logan said thoughtfully, “there are a few things I wanted to do like go to your championship game, watch the sun rise, and go to Disneyland and so on. But other then that, no real regrets.”
“If there is anything I can do for you, please tell me.” He held onto Logan’s hand tightly.
Logan thought carefully. “Well, there is one thing.”
“Name it.”
“Can you bring your dog Boomer to my house, just for tonight? She’s only a little girl. When Mom and Dad break the news to her…”
Even now, bedridden in the hospital, Logan was still looking out for other people. Simon felt so proud of his little boyfriend, and also so terribly sad. “I’ll bring him over right away.”
* * *
“Eve, are you in there?” Julia knocked on the door. In one hand she was carrying a tray of reheated food. When they told Eve the reason why Logan wasn’t going to come home anymore, she ran upstairs and locked herself in her room. She didn’t even come out for dinner.
Julia made a glance at her tray and sighed. Perhaps it would have been wiser to tell her after Eve had eaten first. Oh well, there was no use dwelling on it now. She knocked on the door a bit more firmly. “Eve? It’s Mom. Can I come in sweetie?” She waited for an answer, but all she got was silence.
Poor thing, she must’ve cried herself to sleep. Julia thought. She was about to head back downstairs when she heard a distinctive whining sound coming from Logan’s room. Somehow Simon’s dog Boomer managed to find his way into her son’s room. She set the tray she was carrying down onto the floor and rolled up her sleeves as she made her way towards the door. If that dog made a mess in Logan’s room…
She halted when she heard a cry. Dogs can’t cry. Silently she peered through the crack of the door.
“Why does Logan have to die?” Eve sobbed as she hugged the dog around the neck tightly. “He’s never done anything wrong. He’s been the best big brother I could ever ask for. Why does he have to die?”
Boomer whined and licked the tears from her cheek.
“If only I was older and had the power to save him.” She cried. “Oh Boomer, I don’t want him to die!” After that she simply cried, wetting the dog’s fur with her tears. Despite the uncomfortable position he was in, Boomer didn’t try to move away. Instead, the dog simply whined and licked her face occasionally, as if he were attempting to cheer her up.
Outside the door, Julia quickly wiped her eyes before going in. She had sworn to herself that she would be strong, for Logan’s sake. If she wanted to comfort her daughter, she had to look like she didn’t want to collapse into gales of weeping as well. Straightening herself out, she pushed the door open and walked in.
* * *
Softly Simon crept into Logan’s hospital room, pushing an empty wheelchair in front of him. Logan was still asleep, snoring softly under the covers. Silently he tiptoed to the bed and gently shook him.
“Logan…” Simon whispered. “Logan, time to wake up…”
Logan gave a snort and a groan before he turned away. Shaking his head, Simon tugged the blanket out of Logan’s grip and kissed him until Logan’s eyes finally opened.
“Simon?” He said sleepily as he rubbed his eyes. “What are you doing here? What time is it?”
“A little bit before five.” Simon told him. “Now come on, there’s something I want to show you.”
“Can’t it wait until later?” Logan said before giving a great big yawn. “Like, during normal visiting hours?”
“Trust me.” Simon placed his hands behind Logan’s knees and back. He lifted him out of the bed and transferred him onto the wheelchair, then grabbed the blanket and draped it carefully over Logan’s frail body. “Don’t want you catching a cold or anything.” Simon winked, and then pushed his wheelchair out the door. He took them down the hallways and into the elevator, taking it to the top floor. He then carried the wheelchair up an additional flight of stairs until they came out onto the rooftop. It was still dark outside, and the cold early morning air made him shiver and pull his blanket tighter around him. Once they have arrived, Simon searched for what seems like a good spot near the ledge of the roof and sat down.
“Simon, why are we up here?” Logan asked as the big guy lifted him out of the chair and settled him onto his lap.
“You’ll see.” He told him as he wrapped his big arms around the little guy to keep him warm. “Just watch.”
Perplexed, Logan sat back and waited for something to occur. The minutes ticked by, and nothing seemed to be happening. Then, Logan noticed that it was significantly brighter then it was before. As time passed, the skies lightened up more and more. At first the skies became a shade of grey, but as the seconds ticked off the grey slowly dissolved in the brilliant, nameless colors.
And then the sun finally peeked out from beyond the horizon, its warm rays bathing the world with light in the many shades of morning. The way the sun rose was pure poetry, and Logan couldn’t help but look at it in pure awe.
“Now are you glad I woke you up?” Simon asked.
“Oh yes, definitely.” Logan said breathlessly. “This is…this is so romantic. Thank you, Simon.”
“I’d do anything to make every day of the rest of your life perfect.” Simon whispered into his ear. “I just wish…I just wish it didn’t have to end so soon.”
“It’s wasn’t so bad.” Logan tried to cheer him up. “Three weeks was fine.”
“No it’s not.” Simon squeezed Logan’s hand, holding himself back as to not crush the fragile bones inside. “It’s not fine. It was too short. Why are you so calm about this? Aren’t you afraid?”
“Of course I am, but what can I do about it?” Logan shrugged. “I’ve known for a long time that I was going to die young, and it’s going to happen no matter what I do. What’s left but to accept and wait?”
“There’s a limit to how optimistic a person can get.” The quarterback said soberly.
“Hey…” Logan leaned his head against Simon’s arm while they watched the sun rise. “I’ve lived a full and happy life. Three weeks is more then enough for me.”
“But not for me.” Simon said. “There are so many things I wanted to do with you, and now we don’t have the time anymore.”
“It doesn’t matter what we do.” Logan said. “Just being with you makes the time worth it.”
Simon stifled a cry. Instead, he held Logan tightly. “I love you, Logan.”
“I love you too, Simon.” He told him back, and together they watched the sun rise into the sky.