Alex's Guardian Angel
by Anthony Lane
Chapter 40
Warning:
This story contains scenes of love and a sexual nature involving males with other males. If the reading or possessing of such material as this is illegal in your country, state, province, county, municipality, etc., please leave this site immediately and do not proceed further. If you are under the legal age to read this, please do not do so.
It is not my intention to offend anyone or to get you in trouble.
The author retains all rights to this original story. Please do not publish without my explicit authorisation.
Disclaimer:
Most of the places mentioned, and none of the characters exist in real life. Whilst there are references to celebrities in places, no inference should be taken as to their sexual orientation in real life. This story is completely fictional.
This is my first attempt at writing fiction. I was inspired to pick up the pen after reading several stories by David Lee which can be found in the prolific authors section on Nifty.
I would like to send out thanks to both David and Tom who have both helped to edit the errors out. If you would like to send me an email about this story please put Alex's guardian angel in the main title. Thanks for reading.
Opening his eyes seemed to take ages. Panic set in when he tried to move his hands to rub his eyes and he found he couldn't move them. He screamed out.
"It's ok hun, you're in hospital. You were in an accident last night, remember?"
As his eyes opened and focused on the woman in front of him, Jerry caught flashes of the accident.
"What happened?"
"I don't really know to be honest hun," said the elderly woman. "All I know is that you've broken both arms and you've been unconscious since you arrived in the ambulance."
"I was with my dad, is he here? Or my mom? Did someone get hold of my brother?"
"Like I said hun, I don't know much. There was a woman here last night and I think someone rang in earlier to ask after you."
"Um… can you ring my brother for me and tell him I'm here and ask him to come over?"
"Sure hun, do you know his number?"
"I… it….there was a list of numbers in my wallet. It should still be there."
"I'll have a look."
The woman searched the cupboard beside Jerry.
"There's nothing here hun. I'll have a look and see if there is something at the nurse's station that can tell us more."
"Thanks. Um.. I need to use the toilet, where do I go?"
"Well that's going to be awkward hun. We'll have to get you some help with that. I can help or I can get a male nurse if you'd rather?"
"Why do I need to help?"
"You've broken both your arms hun, you can't do much yourself until the casts come off."
"Oh, well can you get a male nurse then please?"
"Sure thing, now don't you go fretting about anything. I'll get Yuri to help you with the toilet and I'll look for that phone number for your brother while you're gone."
"Thanks."
The woman left and a few minutes later a young man turned up.
"Hi Jerry I'm Yuri, nurse Williams said you need some help going to the toilet. Is it for a number one or two?"
"Just a pee."
"That's easy, give me a second and I'll be right back."
True to his word Yuri wasn't long. When he returned he had a funny shaped bottle in his hand.
"Right dude, let's sort you out. As you only need a pee I thought it was easier to use one of these bottles. We have two choices, the first one, which I think would be better for you; is for me to pull the blankets back, lift your gown place your willy into the bottle and then leave you alone to do your business and come back in a few minutes. Does that sound alright to you?"
"What is the other option?"
"Well some people can't go while they're lying down so we help them out of bed. If we do that I may as well take you to the bathroom."
"Why is the first option better for me?"
"It just means less jostling about for you, so it's not likely to cause any pain to you."
"Oh ok. Let's try that one then."
"Alright, I'll pull the curtain around your bed now so no one can see you or what you're doing."
When he'd finished with the curtain, Yuri moved back to the bed and pulled the blankets back, lifted up Jerry's gown and put Jerry's penis into the bottle. Jerry felt completely embarrassed about a complete stranger not only seeing his willy, but touching it. So much so, he wondered whether he would be able to go at all.
"Ok, I'll come back in a few minutes so you don't need to feel rushed, alright?"
"Thanks."
Yuri had hardly left the room when Jerry's bladder opened and he started to fill the bottle. Relief washed through him as he felt the urine leave his body.
When Yuri returned Jerry felt more embarrassed because now Yuri was handling a bottle of his urine.
Yuri could see the embarrassment spreading across Jerry's face.
"Jerry, don't be embarrassed dude, I've done this loads of times for people of all ages. I've seen things you wouldn't believe. Now how about your breakfast? You've missed the main trolley but we can get you some cereal or toast if you're hungry."
"Um… cereal would be fine thanks."
"Ok, I'll go get that sorted after I've got rid of this."
"Thanks."
"Before I go, let's put something on this telly for you."
Yuri switched the telly on and left with the bottle.
A few minutes later the local news came on the telly. There was a report on the street parties that had taken place all across the country the day before to celebrate the royal wedding. Then they moved onto a report about a dog show that was taking place later that day. There was a piece about a car crash which resulted in two fatalities and three others in hospital. Then they gave a weather report before going back to the main studio in London.
As Jerry watched, very little of what was said actually sunk in. It was more background noise than anything else. His mind was on what the accident meant to his chances of seeing Alex again soon.
"Hey, I've managed to get you some frosties, are they ok with you?"
"Sorry, what did you say?"
"I said I got you frosties. Are they alright?"
"Yeah. Do you know whether nurse Williams has found the phone number for my brother?"
"I don't sorry dude, let's get you fed and I'll go find her. Now just let me know when you want the next spoonful ok?"
Yuri gave Jerry the first spoonful of cereal.
After he'd finished chewing Jerry said, "Um Yuri?"
"What is it dude?"
"Well it's just, well you don't look much older than my brother or his friend and they're still in school."
"Ah. Don't worry, I'm not actually a proper nurse. I'm still in college training. I turned twenty last month but thanks to a bit of luck and good genes from my parents, I've never looked my age."
"Oh."
"Ready for the next spoon?"
"Sure."
While he was chewing, nurse Williams stuck her head in.
"Jerry, I'm sorry hun but there's no sign of your things. I spoke to someone and they said your mother took everything home with her. But while I was looking, someone called to ask after you, he said he was here last night with your brother."
"Was it Justin?"
"No Alan. He works here. He just asked if you were awake and if your mother was here. When I answered that, he said he'd bring your brother around to see you. He said Alex, is it? Can't wait to see you."
Jerry's reaction to the news was obvious to both Yuri and nurse Williams.
"I guess we'd better get you fed and cleaned up then if your brother is coming," said Yuri.
"Thanks."
Half hour later, Jerry was fed and Yuri had washed his face for him and left him to watch the telly while he waited for Alex.
The memories of last night all came flooding back to him before he had chance to open his eyes. The confrontation with his mother, the death of his father and the sight of his brother broken and battered, all combined to bring more tears to Alex's eyes.
The only comfort Alex had was feeling himself being tightly held by Justin.
Justin woke to Alex's crying but not knowing what to say to make it better, he just held on to the one thing that mattered most. Alex.
After a few minutes Justin kissed the back of Alex's neck. Alex was surprised by the kiss and he jumped and stopped crying.
"I didn't know you were awake."
"It's alright baby, holding you still feels special. I just wish there was something I could do to make things all better."
"I know. I know he threw me out but he was my dad."
"I know baby. The good thing is that Jerry's going to be alright."
"Yeah but will she let me see him?"
"We'll sort something out don't worry right now. Do you want to get up yet or do you want to stay here for a bit more?"
"Lie here with you if that's alright. It feels good being in your arms; like I have someone protecting me."
"With everything I have."
The boys stayed wrapped around each other for an hour with Alex crying occasionally. The call of nature eventually pulled the two boys apart.
"Baby, I've gotta move, I need the toilet."
As Justin got up he noticed the time on the clock beside the bed.
"When I'm up do you want me to see if Alan is up so he can ring the hospital and see if Jerry is awake?"
"Yes please. If he is awake, can you ask Alan to find out if I can visit him?"
"Sure baby, I'll do that after I've been to the loo."
"You not getting dressed?"
"What for? Alan and Rick are ok with me being naked around the house."
And with that, Justin left Alex for Rick and Alan's bedroom. When he got there the room was empty and the bed made. Not finding who he was looking for he headed to the bathroom before going downstairs.
"Morning; how's Alex? Is he awake?" asked Rick as Justin walked into the living room.
"He's hurting. I don't know what his father dying is going to do to him. Whether it will send him back to self-harming or push him closer to breaking the habit."
"I guess it's the old 'time will tell' problem."
"Yep. Is Alan about, I didn't see him when I stuck my head in your room?"
"He's in the kitchen making breakfast for all of us. He phoned the hospital and we can go and see Jerry later this morning. By the time we've eaten and showered it should be time to leave for the hospital."
"Cool. I'll go tell Alex."
Justin ran up the stairs as fast as his feet would take him. When he got to the bedroom he was a little out of breath.
"Hey baby….Alan's phoned the hospital….we can go and see Jerry this morning….. he's awake."
"Did he find out if my mother was there?"
"I just spoke to Rick. He said Alan's making us breakfast now, when we've finished we got enough time for a shower before we leave for the hospital. So don't worry about getting dressed. When I saw Rick he was as dressed as I am."
"Do they always walk around naked then?"
"They told me once when I asked them about it, they said it was pointless getting dressed for breakfast only to then undress for a shower before going out. But if you feel awkward you can put your briefs on."
"Don't you think it's strange walking around naked?" Alex asked as he got up.
"I've been doing it around here with Rick and Alan for a few years now so it doesn't even register anymore."
"What if someone knocks the door?"
"That can be awkward but usually we stick one of the dressing gowns on that Rick keeps in the closet under the stairs for such an occasion."
"Oh."
"So, you ready for breakfast?"
"I've just got to go to the loo so I'll catch you up."
"Before we go downstairs I want you to know something," Justin said as he pulled Alex into a hug.
"What's that?"
"I want you to know that I'm here for you; and I think you're really special despite what your mother says."
"I know you do Sunshine. I don't know how I'd have managed to cope if it wasn't for you and your parents."
"Come on, the sooner we've had breakfast the sooner we can go and see Jerry."
"Alright."
Alex and Justin left the bedroom and headed downstairs, with Alex stopping in the bathroom along the way.
When he entered the kitchen he felt a little awkward being naked and automatically held his hands in front of his cock before sitting down.
"Morning Alex, the nurse I spoke to earlier said that Jerry was doing fine, she said the first thing he asked about was you. She didn't mention anything about your mother, so I'm assuming she isn't there," said Alan.
"Thank you for calling, and for taking me last night."
"It's not a problem and don't think you need to keep thanking us either. You became part of our family when you moved in with Sarah and Simon."
"I don't know what….this is all so overwhelming," said Alex as he burst into tears again.
Justin got up and hugged Alex until the tears slowed down.
"We just want you to know you're not alone anymore and we're all here in your corner," said Rick.
"Thank you. I can't believe how quickly you've all taken me in as family when my own family…."
"Let's get off all this mushy stuff and get on with breakfast," said Alan seeing how emotional Alex was.
"Good idea. Will we be able to stay long at the hospital or will they stick visiting hours on us?" asked Justin.
"Well with my working at the hospital, we'll get some leeway but they won't let us stay there all day if that's what you were thinking."
"How much time are we going to be able to spend with him?" asked Alex.
"Well I'd say they'll be alright with us spending say two hours this morning and a couple more this evening."
"Wow that's more than I thought," said Justin.
"Yes, but at this point I'm assuming we don't have issues with Alex's mother."
"Oh you can bet there's going to be problems of some sort," replied Alex.
"We'll deal with them when they crop up. Quick question for you two. When Alan and I have finished our shower, do you both want to use the big shower in our room, or one of you use that while the other jumps in the other one?"
"It's up to Alex, whatever he wants to do is fine with me," replied Justin.
"I guess it makes more sense for the both of us to use the larger shower, that way we are not using as much water."
"When you two have finished your breakfast just swill the plates off, I've already done the rest of the dishes, then come up. Alan and I should have finished by then. If not just wait on the bed. We shouldn't be too far off finished."
With that Alan and Rick left the kitchen heading upstairs.
"Are you sure you're ok with us showering together?"
"Of course I am, just not sure I'm in the mood for anything else, if you get my meaning?"
"I know baby, I wasn't going to try anything anyways. I know you've got a lot more on your mind than sex. Now Alan and Rick have gone, I can tell you."
"What's that?"
"How cute I thought you looked when you came into the kitchen hiding your cock."
Alex blushed.
"I…um…it was…"
"Don't worry about it; I just wanted to tell you I thought it was cute. Rick and Alan won't say anything to you about it. I did the same thing when I was first getting used to it."
Justin reached over the table and squeezed Alex's hand before getting up and moving towards the sink.
A few minutes later, both boys were heading up the stairs to Alan and Rick's bedroom. They could still hear the shower running so they sat down on the bed. Justin put his arm around Alex and pulled him close. The closeness of Alex's body started Justin's cock to swell and by the time Rick and Alan came into the bedroom, Justin's cock was at full mast.
Alex and Justin got up and went into the bathroom without saying anything.
"How do you think Alex's mother is going to act if we turn up and she's there?" asked Rick.
"I don't know. I'm more concerned for Jerry. He's going to need a hell of a lot of help until his arms are out of those casts. I don't know if his mother is up to that sort of care."
"I don't know how I'd have felt at Jerry's age having my mother helping me go to the toilet or showering me. What he needs is his big brother to help him but I don't know if that's possible right now. You saw her reaction to Alex last night."
"I know. I just hope Alex is going to be strong enough to cope with all that's going to come his way."
"Like I said to Justin earlier, it's that time will tell thing. All we can do is be there for him. I think Justin is going to need a lot of support as well."
"You're probably right. He's never really had to deal with someone dying either."
"Exactly. I think it may be good to keep them busy for the next few days."
"Well we did promise to take them swimming on Monday, so we just need to work out what to do as a group today and tomorrow outside of the hospital. By Monday I would think we'd know more about where we all stand in terms of Alex seeing Jerry."
"The big question is whether the boys will be up to doing a lot."
"I'm sure we can work a few things out. Even if it's going for runs with them, and there's always bowling and we haven't been ice skating in ages or the cinema."
"Let's see how this visit to the hospital goes."
"I suppose you're right. Ok, I'm going to go and see what we've got that we could do for food when we get back or if we'll need to make a stop on the way home."
"Don't I get a kiss before you leave me?"
"Awww is my sexy feeling neglected?"
"You bet I am."
Alan went up to Rick and gave him a passionate kiss that had them both gasping for air when they separated.
"Ok, now do you mind if I go and check on the food situation?"
"No, I'll be right down. I'll just tell the boys to hurry up."
"Be careful, what you may see in there may make you blind," replied Alan laughing as he headed downstairs.
When Rick went into the en suite what he saw wasn't what he expected. Alex and Justin were just holding each other under the water. He realised Alex was crying when he saw his body shaking. He left the boys undisturbed and went downstairs.
"Did you tell them to shift?"
"I couldn't. Alex was crying on Justin so I left them alone. If they haven't come down in ten minutes, I'll go back up."
"Well we've got mince in the freezer that I can do a Bolognese with so we could have lasagne or spaghetti. Do you have any preference?"
"I don't, perhaps the boys will."
Callum's routine was set in stone during school holidays. He was expected to be up, showered, dressed and had breakfast all before nine. From nine to twelve he was required to study regardless of whether the school had set homework or not. He had lunch with his mother at twelve and when he had cleaned the lunch things away, he could spend the afternoon doing non-school things. Whatever he did in the afternoons he was required to be back at home for dinner at five sharp, unless his father had made other arrangements.
Callum had been sat at his desk reading one of his books for English when he heard his father.
"Callum, will you come down here please?"
"I'll be right down dad. Let me just finish this one paragraph."
When Callum went into the living room, he was surprised to see Jerry's mother sat there with his parents.
"Hello Mrs Wilshere, what did you want dad?"
"Mrs Wilshere has told us some very sad news. Mr Wilshere, Vicar Stephens and Jerry were involved in a car crash after they dropped you off last night," said his father.
"Oh no, was anyone hurt?"
"Jerry is in hospital but Mr Wilshere and Vicar Stephens both died," replied Alice.
"Oh no, I'm so very sorry. Is Jerry going to be alright?"
"When I left him, he was still unconscious. He broke both his arms but the doctors think he'll wake on his own and he'll be ok."
"That's good to hear. Will I be able to visit him soon?"
"I'm not sure of the visiting arrangements yet. When I do I'll let your father know."
"Thank you Mrs Wilshere."
"That's it Callum, you can go back to your school work now."
"Ok dad."
When Callum returned to his bedroom rather than getting back into his school work he wondered whether Alex knew about the accident and how he could try and let him know. Jerry had told him which street Alex was staying in but not the house or phone number. The best he could do would be to try and walk up and down the street and hope Alex was looking out for Jerry arriving.
Knowing that was the only thing he could do to try and let Alex know about Jerry, he settled down to his book again.
Alex and Jerry were drying off in the bedroom when Rick came in.
"Alan wants to know, do you boys want spaghetti or lasagne tonight?"
"I don't care as long as we have garlic bread," replied Justin.
"Either is ok with me too."
"Geez you boys are a great help. Hurry up then and we'll get moving."
It took Alex and Justin less than five minutes to be standing by the front door dressed and ready to go.
"I want you to be ready for disappointment Alex. I don't know if your mother will be there and if she is she's likely to be just as hostile as she was last night; which means we may not be able to see Jerry," said Rick.
"I know. I'll just have to hope she's not there. If I know her she's probably gone to some meeting or other about the church. They're probably already making preparations for Vicar Stephens replacement."
"Well whatever happens we are all here for you," said Alan.
The four of them left the house and got in the car.
Just as they were pulling into the car park Alan asked, "Do you remember how to get to Jerry's room, Rick?"
"I think I can find it, I'll drop you three off and if I haven't shown up in fifteen minutes, come and find me in the café. I know how to get to there."
"We can wait for you to park the car Rick. It's only a few minutes and that way, no one gets lost," said Alex.
"Are you sure? I'm not completely useless finding my way around the hospital. And I'm quite capable of asking one of the nurses."
"If we're going to wait for Rick to park the car, we may as well stay in the car and walk back with him," replied Justin.
"True. So it's decided, we wait in the car till you park and we all walk to the hospital together," said Alex.
Alex had been right, it only took them a few minutes to park the car and walk to the hospital entrance.
Nerves started to build as Alex walked into the foyer. Alan began to lead them to Jerry's room and Alex was quietly praying that his mother wasn't there.
Relief washed over him when he saw Jerry awake and alone in his room.
"Hey kiddo, how you doing?" Alex asked as he entered the room, followed by Justin. Alan and Rick chose to wait outside after they saw that Alice was not in the room.
"Hey Alex, Justin. It's a total nightmare. I can't do anything for myself. I've even got to have someone help me go to the toilet."
Alex sat in the chair next to the bed while Justin sat in the one near the window.
"That's embarrassing."
"Yeah I know, tell me about it. At least it's not going to be too embarrassing having dad help me when I get home."
"Wasn't mom here when you woke up?"
"Nope, and nurse Williams said that dad wasn't down as a patient. Just my luck, I get in a car crash with him and I'm the one who comes out the worse."
"Jerry…. I wish mom had done this…"
"Done what Alex?"
"Um… you didn't come out the worse. Dad died."
"Whoa… what about Vicar Stephens? He was in the car as well."
"He didn't make it either . I'm sorry."
"What are you sorry for? It's not like either of them gave a damn about you. It's just going to be a nightmare for me now. I'm going to have mom taking me to the toilet."
"I wish there was more I could do but mom chased me out last night."
"What do you mean mom chased you off?"
"She pretty much told me I wasn't allowed to be here and I wasn't to talk to you again. She nearly went ballistic when she saw me here. She demanded to know how I found out before her, so I've dropped you in some with that, sorry kiddo."
"Damn her to hell. I'm sick of all of this. You're my brother. If she thinks she's going to stop me from seeing you, she's got another think coming."
"Calm down Jerry, you don't want to get too worked up. You were in a major accident last night."
"I'll calm down in a minute. I can't believe she is being a bitch with you still. I mean dad and Vicar Stephens are both dead and she's still treating you like scum."
"I know kiddo but I didn't expect anything different."
"Oh no…"
"What?"
"I just remembered I was going to bring my friend around this afternoon so you could talk with him. He's bound to have heard now about the accident."
"Don't worry about that right now, just concentrate on getting better."
Right then Yuri came in to check on Jerry.
"Hey Jerry, I see you've got some friends with you. I just need to check a couple of things and then I'll leave you guys alone."
"Hi Yuri, this is my brother and his friend Justin."
"Hello both."
"Hi," said Alex.
"Hi," said Justin.
"I'd know you were Alex even if you weren't sat by the bed. You two look a lot alike."
"Now you mention it, you're right. I didn't think about it yesterday," replied Justin.
Yuri made a few notes in Jerry's chart.
"Right then, I'll be back in about half hour with your lunch."
"I've not long had breakfast."
"Well you were late with that, unfortunately, meal times are one of the things set in stone around here."
"Will Alex and Justin be allowed to stay or do they have to go then?"
"I don't see a problem; I'll go and check for you."
"It's alright Yuri; I'll ask Alan, he's also a nurse here. He is the one who arranged for us to be here anyway," said Justin as he got up to leave.
When he returned a few seconds later he said, "Alan said we would be able to stay but we have to go around one and all being well we can come back this evening."
"Oh cool."
"Well I'll see you all in half hour," said Yuri.
When Yuri left Alex said, "Is he a nurse Jerry?"
"Yes and no, he's in college training. Why'd you ask?"
"He looks like he could be in Justin's year in school is all."
Jerry chuckled hearing Alex say pretty much what he had thought earlier.
"What are you laughing at?"
"I thought exactly the same thing when he was here earlier."
"I'm glad I'm not you Jerry," said Justin.
"Why?" asked Alex and Jerry at the same time.
"Because I doubt Junior would behave himself if he was being handled by Yuri."
"What do you mean?" asked Jerry. "Who is Junior?"
"It's what he calls his cock," said Alex a little embarrassed.
"Awww that's soooo cute."
"It's not because it's cute, it's just a more polite way of talking about it in public."
"He's got a point there, I suppose, not that I've had much need to talk about my cock in public," replied Jerry.
"Give it time bud, you've got a lot of growing up to do yet," said Justin.
"Do you want something to drink Jerry?"
"I'd love something fizzy if you can swing it, but you'll have to help me with it."
"I'll go get us all something. Do you want fizzy or juice Alex?"
"I don't mind thanks."
"Thanks Justin."
Justin left the brothers alone as he headed for the café.
"Alex, how am I going to manage with mom on my own like this?"
"I don't know kiddo, I wish I could say I'd take you home with me but…"
"I know, you've only just got there yourself and you can't expect Justin's parents to take in a second stray."
"That's assuming mom lets you go. She may not give you up as easily as she did with me."
"What do you think she'd do if I told her I was gay as well?"
"But you're not are you? I thought you said you were straight?"
"I'm not one hundred percent sure. I have feelings for my friend, the one I was going to bring around this afternoon but I don't know if they are just for him as a really good friend or if there is more to them. I mean I find girls in school attractive, enough to set Junior off then."
Alex laughed as Jerry seemed to have slipped into the habit so easily of referring to his cock as Junior.
"What?"
"You just called your cock Junior."
"Well it makes sense and I don't really like the word cock, it sounds so harsh and penis seems so formal and willy just seems so babyish."
"True. So does your Junior react to your friend the same way as it does to the girls? Or is there something else?"
"I've thought about it sometimes, but that was more like would I be able to tell the difference if my friend was sucking Junior or if Debbie Delaney was. So it's sort of all mixed up, you know what I mean? I guess you don't really."
"All I can say is take your time and work out what exactly you feel before you do anything. And I mean with a guy or a girl because once you've rung that bell there's no turning back and you may ruin your friendship with this boy."
"It's alright we had a bit of a chat yesterday after I left you and Justin and we basically agreed that there was plenty of time to work out exactly how we feel about each other."
Right then Alan stuck his head in.
"Heads up boys, your mother is on her way."
"Thanks Alan. I guess that means our time is up kiddo. I don't really want another run in with mom."
"Don't you dare, she is not running you off again."
"She's going to get to make all the decisions kiddo. She can have security throw me out if she puts her foot down. She's your parent."
"And you're my brother."
Just before Alice reached the room, Justin stepped in with the drinks.
"Alan just told me your mom is on her way."
"Yeah he's warned us."
"Are we going or staying? Just so I can tell Alan and Rick."
"I just told Alex she's not running him off again. You're both staying put. She can like it or lump it."
"Are you sure Jerry? I mean she got pretty nasty last night," said Justin.
"Damn sure. She can go to hell before she stops me seeing Alex."
"So long as you're sure. Here you go."
Justin handed Alex the drinks.
Alex had only just taken the top off the bottle when Alice walked in.
"I thought I made myself clear last night. You are not welcome here," she said pointing her finger in Alex's chest.
"I told him to stay."
"I wasn't asking you boy. Now shut up and be quiet."
"I will not be quiet. Alex is my brother and I WILL SEE HIM."
"Calm down Jerry. Remember you were in a crash last night," said Alex.
"You will do what I tell you boy."
"Or what, you'll throw me out like rubbish just like you did with Alex?"
"Watch your tone boy."
"Why should I?"
"Because I am your mother and deserve respect, like the bible says, honour thy father and thy mother."
"Some mother, you haven't bothered to ask me how I'm feeling or had the decency to stay long enough to tell me my father died. No, too busy running around with church business I bet."
"What I do with my time is not your concern and you were unconscious with no indication of when you'd wake up. You expect me to sit here all night?"
"Alex would have done if you hadn't thrown him out last night."
"I don't think this arguing is good for Jerry, why don't we go Alex?" asked Justin.
"It makes no difference if you two are here or not, me and her are going to sort this out right here and now."
"That crash must have addled your brains boy, who do you think you are talking to?"
"The woman who gave birth to me; who thinks she can dictate who I see and when."
"You really think I am going to put up with this abuse? You will alter your tone boy or there will be serious consequences."
"Like I said, what are you going to do, throw me out? That's the best thing you could do."
"That's what you want is it, to go and live with this abomination? This… this faggot?"
"Alex is my brother and he is not an abomination. Yes he's gay but if God was so anti-gay or dead set on wiping them all out, how come dad and Vicar Stephens died last night not Alex?"
"That's it. I'm not listening to this. You dare question God's will or to suggest this abomination deserves to live more than your father. Social services have already taken one unruly child off my hands. I'm sure they can find somewhere more suitable for you, you ungrateful blasphemous boy."
"Good, now get out of my room and leave me alone."
Alice slammed the door behind her as she left the boys in the room.
"Oh my god Alex; what have I done? She'll probably get me put in some god forsaken children's home."
"Don't panic bud, you won't be going into a children's home, I promise," said Justin as he headed out the room.
"How can he promise something like that Alex?"
"Because he's the best. He's probably gone to phone his mother to get her on the case."
"What good is that going to do, if mom wants to put me in a foster home?"
"Sarah has connections, just relax and worry about getting better."
"Alex, I'm scared. I don't think I could cope in a foster home. They may put me somewhere I can't see you."
"I just said not to worry about it didn't I? I wouldn't bet against Sarah and Simon agreeing to take you in."
"They don't know me and they've already taken you in."
"True, but they didn't know me when they rescued me. I know they have the room, but if they can't maybe Rick and Alan could take you in."
"But they don't know me either, so why would they?"
"Look we'll get this sorted out so just relax. Do you want some of your drink now?"
"Please."
Justin came back in as Alex was helping Jerry with the drink.
"Right, I've got mom on the case. She said not to worry, she's going to call Martha and drag her over here this afternoon. We're going to make sure you don't go into a children's home."
"But how can you promise that?" asked Jerry with tears beginning to flow for the first time.
"Don't cry kiddo, you're going to be alright. I promise," said Alex grabbing a tissue from the side and dabbing it over Jerry's eyes.
"But… but…you can't promise."
"Yes we can, you're not in this on your own," said Justin.
"Why don't we talk about something else?"
"You could tell Jerry about how we're going to Old Trafford to see Man U take on Chelsea."
"You what? How'd you manage that?" Jerry asked.
"Well we don't know for definite yet. Alan and Rick took us bowling on Thursday. For the last game we all agreed on a prize for the winners. If Justin and I lost we agreed to clean Rick and Alan's cars and tidy their garden all summer. They agreed that if we won, they'd take us to the Man U game, providing they can get tickets."
"Wow, that's some prize."
The door opened and Yuri walked in.
"Time for lunch dude."
"What have I got? Anything nice?"
"Chicken salad sandwiches. Not sure if that's what you think of as nice."
"Um Yuri?"
"Yes Alex?"
"I can help Jerry with his food if you want to do something else."
"Are you sure? Don't feel you have to, it's what I'm here for anyway."
"I'm sure. That way you can help somebody who doesn't have anyone to help them."
"Alright, if you need anything though, I'll not be far."
"Thanks Yuri," said Jerry.
Yuri placed the plate of sandwiches on the bed trolley and left the boys to it.
"So what are you boys going to do this afternoon when you leave me here?"
"I haven't thought much about it. I guess if we're going to be back later we'll have time for a run and a shower and still manage to get some revision done," said Justin.
"What are you revising for?"
"Not me, Alex. His exams are in a few weeks and I want him to do well, just with one thing and another recently he's not been able to do a lot of studying."
"Ok, enough talking, you going to eat this sandwich?"
"Alright."
"Do you get many channels on this telly Jerry?" Justin asked as Alex held the sandwich to Jerry's mouth.
After a few chews and a swallow Jerry answered, "Um…I don't know, I don't have a bleeper or something to try and turn the channels over with."
"Bleeper?" asked Justin.
"It's what we've always called the remotes," replied Alex, holding the sandwich up for Jerry again.
"Do you mind if I see if the sports news or something is on?"
Jerry nodded while chewing his food.
It took Justin a few seconds to realise that only the five terrestrial channels were on the telly and none of them showed anything worth watching.
"I'll be back in a sec," said Justin.
"Um… Alex?"
"What is it kiddo?"
"Can you go and get Yuri? I need to go to the toilet."
"I can help you go if you want to?"
"You don't have to."
"Well I will if you come live with us, won't I? Or would you rather I not now you know I'm gay?"
"Mom and dad really did a number on you didn't they? You being gay is not, nor ever has been a problem for me. If you are sure you're ok helping me use the toilet then I'm happy. I just wasn't sure you wanted to wipe my butt."
"I'll go check with Yuri if I can help you go to the toilet then."
As Alex was going out of the room, Justin was heading back.
"Where're you going?" Justin asked.
"Jerry needs the toilet so I'm going to check with Yuri that it's alright for me to help him go. I don't want to get Yuri in trouble if we're not supposed to help out."
"Why shouldn't you be able to help?"
"Well there may be rules and what not that mean only staff do certain things."
"Oh."
"Where'd you disappear to anyway?"
"I'll wait and tell the both of you when you get back."
When Alex returned Yuri was following him.
"Sorry dude, it's great your brother wants to help but hospital rules mean helping you out can only go so far. Alex said you need a number two?"
"Yeah."
"Alright, I'll help you to the toilet and then wait outside and you can call me when you're done is that ok?"
"I guess I don't have much choice."
"Fraid not dude."
Alex found it difficult watching his brother struggle to do something so simple as going to the bathroom.
It wasn't long before Yuri was helping Jerry back into bed.
"I'll catch you in a bit dude. Don't forget to ask if there's something I can help with."
"Thanks Yuri," said Jerry as Yuri left.
"So where did you go just now?" asked Alex.
"I had a thought I wanted to check with Alan. The telly in here is going to drive Jerry nuts if he is forced to watch it for long; and with his arms in casts, he can't read or play games so I wondered whether the hospital would have a problem with Jerry using a portable DVD player if I brought one in for him. Alan said a lot of patients used them. So if you want to bud, Alex and I can pick some out for you this afternoon and bring them this evening when we come back."
"Wow, are you sure that's ok? I mean you don't mind? That would be awesome. I don't like watching auction shows or gardening tips."
"It's no problem bud. What type of things do you want us to bring in?"
"I don't know."
"He's just the same as me. We weren't able to watch much at home."
"Oh yeah, I forgot. Well I've got a few in mind that you might enjoy. But Alex and I can work out which ones later."
"Thanks Justin. Alex is right about you."
"Oh is he, and what is he right about?"
"You're amazing."
"Stop it, you'll have me blushing like your brother in a minute," said Justin, messing Jerry's hair up.
"Um... boys, sorry to break this up but we need to make a move," said Alan.
"Ok. Alan I'd like you to meet my brother Jerry. Jerry this is Alan."
"Nice to meet you Jerry, I wish it was under better circumstances."
"Me too."
"We'll be right there Alan," said Justin. "Ok bud, we'll be back later and we'll have plenty for you to watch. Mom is gonna swing by soon, she'll prob have Martha with her, so just tell them what's happened and everything will get sorted. Don't worry about it, you'll be fine."
"I hope you're right. And thanks."
"What for?"
"For treating me like your brother when you hardly know me."
"Hey bud, you're Alex's little brother, which makes you mine as well," said Justin as he ruffled Jerry's hair again before leaving Alex and Jerry alone.
"You'll be alright, I promise. Sarah and Martha are both nice, just do like Justin said, tell them everything."
"What; even that I'm confused about Cal… oops, I shouldn't have said that."
"It's alright, I'm not going to go running around shouting it. But no, it's not necessary to tell Sarah and Martha about how you feel towards Cal. We can work that out later. Let's just work on where you'll be living. I'll be back with Justin later so keep your chin up."
"Alex…"
"What is it kiddo?"
"I love you."
"I love you too kiddo, now take it easy and I'll see you later alright?"
"Sure."
Alex left with a tear in his eye.
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