You Play With Me, You Play With Fire
Summary: After fifty-five sold out stadium shows across the country, the Victory Tour is coming to a close. The Jackson family comes together to celebrate, little did they know the fireworks wouldn’t be the only explosion that night.
Pairing: Michael Jackson & Reader!
Warning: CURSING, FLASHBACKS, MENTIONS OF ABUSE AND FLUFF
Notes: I wrote this story set in the world of Conscious Decision, however, it can be read on its own. This was so much fun to create. I hope you enjoy!
The Hayvenhurst Estate buzzed with excitement. The Victory Tour is officially over and there are only two people who knew it truly was the end. Michael and Y/N remained beside one another, it’s the only way he could keep his anxiety leveled. He’s only able to function with her. Especially tonight, he needed her more than ever.
Y/N had come up with the idea to have a private celebratory dinner before the concert. She went all out, obsessively planning every little detail and with the help of Michael’s mother and sisters, it turned out better than she imagined.
The dinner table was full of love, laughter and appreciation of being together and of course the delicious meal before them.
Michael leans over, kissing Y/N on the cheek, “Thank you. This is… Minnie, this is beautiful.”
“Anything for you.” She caught Marlon side eyeing her, a teasing smirk forming at the edge of his lip, forcing her to add, “And, your brothers.”
“This is an incredible spread. Sorry fellas, I’m not dancing tonight. Go on without me. I’m eating until I can’t walk.” Jackie laughed, loading his plate with more mashed potatoes.
“Michael’s better half threw down in the kitchen, once again. We were in charge of decorations.” Latoya explained, taking a bite of a homemade honey butter roll.
“Uh-huh… Y’all really went all out.” Randy stared at the singular balloon floating in the corner.
“Yeah, it looks like a whole new house.” Michael rolled his eyes, “I thought I took a wrong turn.”
“We broke the helium tank…” Janet muttered with a frown.
“We?” Rebbie shook her head, “You, girl, you.”
“We made the banner! And, look! We got a new tablecloth, streamers and confetti.” Janet grabbed a handful and threw it in the air.
“It looks great. Thank you for doing all of this for us.” Jermaine winked, then, snatched the gravy boat from Jackie, nearly emptying it all over his own plate.
“I can’t wait for dessert! What did you beautiful ladies make?” Tito grinned, rubbing his hands together.
“Our lovely Y/N put together a bakery.” Janet sang, biting into her extra spicy chicken wings.
“Oh! I love when Y/N bakes! What are we having?” Tito shifted in his seat, staring at Y/N and waiting for an answer. Rather impatiently.
“I made a chocolate peanut butter fudge cake, double chocolate chip cookies, a lemon raspberry cheesecake, salted caramel cupcakes, some cinnamon rolls, an apple pie, brownies, oh, and a few flavors of ice cream…” she noticed how quiet it got, how all eyes were concentrated on her along with a ripple of silly smiles, “What? What is it?”
“That’s all?” Marlon said sarcastically, throwing his hands in the air.
“Girl, is there anything you didn’t bake?” Latoya joked.
“I couldn’t decide… so…” Y/N giggled, her hands up to hide her blush, “I made everything I could think of…” she adding, peeking through her fingers.
“Were you planning to feed all of Los Angeles?” Jermaine laughed, “She single handedly bought out all the nearest grocery stores of flour and sugar.”
“Girl, as of this moment, you are officially appointed as the one and only, Jackson family baker.” Jackie gave her a thumbs up.
“You gotta get her that new name Mike…” Marlon mumbled, although, everyone heard it, they chose not to add on. In order to save their brother the embarrassment.
“Lay off my girl, ya buttheads.” Michael waved them off. “She’s excited for us. Y’all should count yourselves lucky. Baking is her love language, so if she bakes for you, know you are loved.”
“Awwww!” Rebbie cheered, “She loves us guys!”
“Aww! Does this mean you’ll be my valentine?” Marlon teased, hand over his heart.
“You guys! She’s got a special place in her heart just for us.” Randy continued, wiping away a fake tear. “Oh, she probably writes about us in her diary!”
“I feel so loved! And, after dessert I’m gonna feel so comatose.” Tito chimed in.
“Y’all are annoying.” Y/N crossed her arms, looking away from them and biting back a laugh.
“You can’t get annoyed by people you love.” Jermaine tossed a crunched up napkin at her. “And, judging by how full this table is, you love us like crazy!”
“We love you right back.” Jackie added.
“Yes, we do.” Janet smiled, blowing a kiss, which Y/N theatrically caught and shoved in her pocket.
“You hear that?” Tito teased, his hand squeezing Joesph’s shoulder. “You love apple pie.”
“So what? It don’t take no talent to bake a damn pie.” Joesph spat, shaking off his son’s hand.
“What’s with all the hostility?” Rebbie asked, annoyed with his behavior.
“I ain’t rolling out no red carpet for this girl.”
“Y/N.” Michael growled across the table, “Her name is Y/N.”
“Whatever.” Joesph threw down his fork, the sound of metal hitting the glass plate echoed and everyone’s mood immediately sifted. They looked defeated. As always, Joesph had to ruin any special occasion. It was his expertise.
“She’s been around our entire lives. You know her name.” Michael hissed, “You know her name and choose to act like you don’t. She doesn’t deserve your anger.”
“Keep talking back and you’ll see real anger!” He shouted back.
“You’re always angry.” Michael raised his voice, “You always take it out on me. Whatever. You’re not going to do it to her.”
The idea of Michael giving Joesph an order sent a chill down the table. He became a whole new person with Y/N, the person he truly was and that made his siblings proud.
And, of course, fearful. Fearful of what this newfound confidence will unlock in Joesph.
“I’m not one of those big shot doctors at that fancy hospital you work at. You can’t bat your little eyes and color me impressed.” Joesph snarled, surprisingly overlooking Michael words and fixing his glare on Y/N.
“Joesph.” Katherine scolded, wanting desperately to enjoy this night with her family, without any drama.
“I won’t be won over by a pretty smile and some kind words. Are you listening to me girl!” His fist crashed against the table, followed by a heavy uncomfortable silence. “I’m not dumb like my son. You give him a minute of your attention and he’s putty in your hands. Not. Me.” There it was. He made sure to insult his son and his lifelong best friend in one breath.
“Joesph. You’ll call me Joesph.”
“Joesph, the insinuation that I’ve accomplished what I have because of my looks is completely wrong. Not only is it offensive, it’s arrogant. It’s like saying, the only reason you have all of this is because you rode your children’s coattails all the way to the promise land.” His eyes widened, and she smiled big, raising the fluted glass to her lips and taking a sip, “However, I suppose one of those insinuations is actually true. So, Joesph, would you say you’re making an arm and a leg off your sons this time around or, is it two arms and two legs? I know how passionate you are about fudging numbers.”
“Who do you think you’re talking to—”
“I’m talking to you.” Her voice steady, “Look at you. A nice new car in the driveway. Tell me, I’d love to know, which one of your children’s bank accounts did you dip into for your shiny new accessory?”
“You will respect me in this house! My house! How dare you come in here and say those false words to my face. Have you no decency?”
“Respect goes both ways.” She shrugged, “Since you claim to be a man all about his facts. Let me help you get your facts right. This is Michael’s house and he’s been kind enough to allow you to live here.”
“I don’t need to respect you! You’re a girl that my son can and will replace in a week. I don’t even need to learn your name. You ain’t special.” He laughed bitterly, “And, you definitely ain’t special to him. My boy has girls fainting over him, he has an endless supply of honeys to choose from. You ain’t all that.” Michael straightened up, staring daggers at Joesph. You are special.
Everyone knows that. You are it.
“I’m a grown woman, not a girl and for the last time, my name is Y/N.”
“I don’t care little girl! I’m not one of your patients! I’m not going to bow down or hang on your every word just because you wear a white coat!”
“And, I am not one of your children. You cannot intimidate or beat me into blind obedience.” No one dared move a muscle after those words were heard.
“W— What did you just say to me?”
“You’re nothing. You’re weak. You’re not a man. A real man wouldn’t need to resort to violence to be heard. A real man wouldn’t need to use his fists to build up the facade he’s actually worthy of being respected. The truth is, the only way you feel important is by putting your children down. They are good, in spite of you, they have beautiful hearts. They are daily reminders of everything you’ll never be and you can’t stand it— you can’t handle that they persevered and survived you. Jealousy is an ugly thing, wouldn’t you agree?”
There was no telling Joesph’s next move, but no one felt afraid for Y/N. There wasn’t a trace of fear on her face.
“You stupid little— You are trash! Trash! I want you out of my house! Now!” He roared. “Out!”
“She’s not going anywhere.” Katherine cut in.
“Have you not heard what this worthless little bitch has said to me! This pathetic piece of trash!” He shouted, picking up his plate and throwing it across the dining room.
“Insult me all you want. I’ll happily be the target of your aggression tonight. Everyone deserves a long overdue break from your juvenile tantrums.” Y/N crossed her arms, the siblings looked on, impressed at how unfazed she seemed.
“Excuse me?” Joesph rose from his seat, now, staring down at her. She exhaled, removing the napkin from her lap, folding and placing it on the table. The family watched closely as Y/N confidently pushed her chair back, standing to meet Joesph’s eye.
“Joseph, did you really not hear me or are you simply upset that I won’t back down to you?” She tilted her head, “If you’ve got such a strong desire to hear it again… I’ll repeat myself. I’ll even write it down, so you never forget it.” She finished with a smile.
“I heard you the first time.”
They stared at each other, until Joseph flicked his hand stiffly as if to say this conversation was beneath him. Then, stomped off, followed by the front door slamming and with that everyone could breathe again.
“I’m sorry.” Y/N said to Michael, her hand on his cheek. “I shouldn’t have—”
“No. No. No. You didn’t do anything wrong.” He grabbed her hand, kissing it gently.
“We ain’t mad at ya.” Jackie said and all the siblings nodded along. “You handle business. As always.”
“It’s entertaining as hell too.” Randy giggled, giddy as ever. “She’s feisty.”
“One of these days, you gotta teach us how you do that!” Latoya emphasized, “He’s scared of you. Ever since we were kids, she’s always had his number.” She snapped her fingers, with a silly expression on her face.
“Who knew, a doctor, a baker and a boxer all in one.” Marlon smirked, “I didn’t even know that existed.”
“Come on, my lil gangsta.” Janet skipped over, wrapping her arm around Y/N’s shoulder. “Let’s go get dessert ready.”
“I’ll help you.” Michael stood from his seat, following Y/N and sister into the kitchen. Once they were gone, everyone shared not so subtle glances, before bursting out into various levels of howling.
“Mark my words. Michael is going to marry her.” Tito said, “Shoot. I ain’t mad. The lady can tear it up in the kitchen. She holds her own with Joesph. She’s meant to be a Jackson.”
“Boy, no one here was debating that.” Randy rolled his eyes, “We’ve been saying that since… well since forever. He is goo goo over her. Always has been.”
“Yeah, she’s a good one.” Marlon smiled, “She’s perfect for him. How much longer is he gonna drag his feet? I don’t get it.”
“You know how Michael is. He’s plotting, I know him. When it comes to her, he’s confident and deliberate. He’ll get her locked down when the time is right. My little brother is smart.” Jackie complemented.
“There’s no way she doesn’t have guys all over her though, she works in a hospital, surrounded by handsome doctors and bold patients… you think she has a boyfriend?” Jermaine questions, “That would crush Mike.”
“She doesn’t have no boyfriend.” Katherine interrupted, “Quit talking crazy.”
“Mama, you gossiping with us?” Latoya wiggled her shoulders.
“That girl is all about Michael. You’re blind if you can’t see that.” Katherine said.
“Yeah, they’re in love. We all know that, I mean everyone but them.” Rebbie giggled, holding her hands up in frustration.
“Maybe we should give them a nudge.” Tito suggested, “You know, discreetly…”
“Now, as much as I am tired of watching those two love sick fools trip over each other, there will be no nudging. It’s best to let these things fall into place the way God intended.” Katherine smiled, “I trust it’ll happen. And, I’ll be happy to say I witnessed it come together. Y/N is my bonus daughter, I know that in my heart.”
As they travelled through the halls backstage at Dodger Stadium, Michael kept a close eye on Y/N. He knew how difficult tonight would be, but made peace with the possibility of his family shunning him. It’s a risk he’s willing to take. He wasn’t afraid because she was on his team, they were a team— a damn good one. He’s accepted the notion that she was the only one who genuinely, selflessly and completely had his back. If she was still by his side he’d be okay, in fact, he’d be better than okay.
The pair reached his dressing room, rushing inside and closing the door. Finally, the air was lighter and the space calmer and quiet. Y/N didn’t waste a second, unpacking Michael’s necessities and arranging them the way he liked.
He knew he had to get dressed, but he couldn’t resist admiring her. She makes everything so magical. It made it impossible to look away.
So, he changed right there, no hiding. The perfect view of her gave him a boldness he didn’t know was possible. Why not soak it in?
Y/N looked over everything once more, to ensure that everything Michael needed was there. Then, she collapsed onto the couch, her elbow sunk into the armrest and her chin in the palm of her hand. She quietly doted over Michael buttoning his shirt. Her eyes followed as he settled in front of the mirror. He’s so focused on getting his curls to fall perfectly that he doesn’t notice her eyes on him yet. If he knew, the only thing on her mind was how handsome he is, he’d probably combust. He starts to touch up his makeup. The sponge dances across his cheek and it was then his eyes found hers. Although, no one sees the small things, he does— and he hates it. He instantly feels hot and in need of a hiding place, pretending to look for something, he begins rummaging through an empty toiletry bag.
“Michael.” She was beside him without a second thought, the captivating scent of her perfume already calming him.
“The makeup only does so much.” He said, turning away. “It’s getting worse… my skin… I— I don’t know how long I have until the makeup doesn’t work anymore.”
“You don’t need it. I know the vitiligo makes you feel vulnerable, but you are so loved. Michael, I need you to look at me.” She took ahold of his hand.
He turned to face her, his eyes focused on the ground. His hands were trembling and his breath unsteady.
“Mickey.” Her palms soft against his skin as she gently raised his head up. “God creates beauty, don’t you agree?”
“And, he created you…” she booped his nose with a smile, “What does that tell you?”
“I don’t know…” he tried to shrug her off, but she didn’t let him.
“You know. Michael, say it. It’s true, you just need to believe it.”
“God… creates beauty.” His voice so soft.
“Yes, he did. Let’s hear it again.” The pads of her thumbs tenderly caressing the rosiness spreading through his cheeks.
“God creates beauty. He created me.” Michael leaned in, resting his forehead against hers, “I am beautiful. I am Gods creation and he creates beauty. I am beautiful.”
“Our whole lives, you’ve always known exactly what to say, exactly what I need to hear at the perfect time.” He faced the mirror again, much happier with his reflection, “You know, sometimes I think you know me better than I know myself.”
“We’ve always had that, even as kids, we just got each other.” He took a step in her direction, his hands attached to her hips like a magnet. “There are times, it feels like were connected… we could be in different states, shoot, even on different continents and I know what you were feeling… I could feel it, feel you.”
“I know. It gets intense at times.” She felt bashful, leaning her head on his shoulder, fiddling with the bedazzled details of his jacket. “Makes it feel like we’re the only two people on Earth… no one else—”
“No one else understands me the way you do.” Michael sighed, effortlessly finishing Y/N’s thought.
“That’s what I was going to say.” She laughed against his chest, tilting her head up only to see him already smiling back at her.
It was the first chords of Shake Your Body that snapped Michael back to reality. The thousands of smiling faces, the screams that morphed into one loud booming. He’d all but left his body for the entirety of the show, but now is the moment, his moment. One minute the countdown to showtime was being announced, the next it was almost over.
“You’re going to be incredible. You always are.” She smiled up at him, that smile that made him feel like he could fly. A delicate kiss to each of his cheeks, covering him with good luck.
“I think I’ll need to take you with me.” He chuckled nervously, holding her hand with all his might.
“You can do this. I’m with you.” It was tradition, she’d watch from backstage, the right side to be exact. “You know where to find me.”
“I can do this. If I get lost I’ll look to you. That always calms me down.” He pulled her in close, “I can do this. I have my Minnie.”
“You have me Mickey. You have me.” She tilted her head upward to look at him. They fell under one another’s gaze.
“I— I seriously love you.” Michael professed, his voice raw, leaving a trail of goosebumps across her body.
“I love you, seriously.” She responded with such emotion he felt weak in the knees, her arms around his waist the only thing keeping him on his feet.
“Mike!” Marlon yelled, eyebrow arched and arms crossed, “Am I interrupting something?”
“Yes. Our pre-show rituals.”
“What do you want, you schmuck?”
“It’s showtime.” He drummed his hands on the table, “Don’t you worry, I’ll hold his hand while we’re out there. Keep it warm for you darling.” He threw his arms around his brother, trying to land a kiss on his cheek.
“You crazy goon. Get off me” Michael cackled, pushing him away. “Let’s go.” His hand outstretched in her direction as Marlon went on, rambling about someone stealing his hair gel. Michael could do that, do just about anything all while giving his undivided attention to Y/N. Truthfully, it was second nature. A reflex, his body always accounted for her.
“Let’s do this.” Marlon couldn’t contain the joy he felt walking behind Michael and Y/N. They were exactly what one another needed. He could feel it. The sight of their intertwined hands made him look forward to the future.
Especially, their future.
His little brother had a future, it was bright and full of everything he’d always dreamt of.
55,000 thousand people filled Dodger Stadium, each of the brothers took in this feeling. All, but one. Michael was pacing the stage, finally he brought the microphone to his lips, tucking his hand in his pocket. Yet, he couldn’t get the words out.
Y/N saw the panic on his face, hopping off the case she was sitting on. He felt it immediately, his eyes following in the direction his heart was tugging him toward.
A sweet smile gracing her face, he felt it again. Strength.
His eyes focused on his lady, his Minnie, who made him feel worthy and special.
A flirty wink with her name on it. She giggled, blowing a kiss back, helping him find his voice again.
"I'd like to say... this is our last and final tour... I think this is our farewell tour. You've all been wonderful. It's been a long 20 years. And we love you all".
Michael’s unexpected announcement didn’t stop the screams from the crowd. His brothers stepped forward, connecting hands and taking their final bow. They share a long group hug, the flash of cameras mimicking that of lightning. It was truly a sight to see. The Jacksons wave goodnight, heading towards the stage exits. Jackie, Tito, Jermaine, Marlon and Randy disappearing behind the left curtain and Michael behind the right. It wasn’t planned to leave in separate directions, but it seemed like another statement in itself. Michael followed Y/N like she was his North Star, closing the distance between them in record time. He takes hold of her, clutching her against his chest as he moved them deeper backstage. No doubt wanting to get out of there. She knew, holding him tightly and moving her feet in sync with his.
There was shouting getting closer, Michael’s grip tightening around his best friend, anticipating for what was about to happen. He wanted to shield her from it— he had to.
“Who the hell do you think you are!” Joesph barked, running ahead to block the exit. “You better look at me boy! Look me in the eye you little shit!”
“Joe, it’s over.” Bill stepped in between the father and son. “Let’s not make a scene.”
“Be a man! You’re pathetic! I made you! You are nothing! Always have been, always will be! For once in your miserable life, be a man and—”
“Enough!” Y/N interrupted, “That’s enough!” Her hand protectively placed on Michael’s chest as she glared at his father.
“You!” Joesph shifted his focus, his wicked finger pointed in her face. “This is your fault! You turned him against his family! You manipulative money hungry little bitch!” He attempted to step closer. “You’re poison! I knew you were rotten! You want to ruin our family! You—”
“You! You are the poison!” Michael shouted, everything came to a halt. He pushed his father’s hand away from Y/N’s face. “Y/N supports my decisions, she does not make them for me. She is family. My family. She isn’t going anywhere. She’s not intimidated by you and neither am I. You can’t control me anymore— never again. I’m not gonna allow you to brainwash me into walking away from the best thing that’s ever happened to me.” He stepped closer, placing Y/N behind him and Bill stood close at his side. “I’m done being used. You bullied me into being your cash cow, you thought I’d never stand up for myself. I wish it didn’t take so long, but I am done. You hear me? I am done! You accept this or you don’t either way it’s happening. And, if you ever speak to my girl like that again, I promise it’ll be the last you ever see of me.”
Joesph stood dumbfounded, staggered steps backward until his shoulder hit the wall. He was speechless, for once. They didn’t expect or wait for a response, they didn’t even spare him a glance. Michael extended a protective arm around his girl, she felt a gentle squeeze against her hip as he guided her away from this mess.
Bill got them to the car quickly and unscathed. Michael and Y/N’s hands tied together the entire time, however, he chose not to bring attention to it.
The car ride was silent, but pleasant. Before he knew it the kids had drifted off, exactly like when they actually were kids. Michael leaning against the interior of the door and Y/N snuggled up into his side.
He couldn’t help but watch over them proudly. They’d really grown up, his silly little kids, now adults. He wouldn’t change a thing— they turned out to be everything he knew they’d live up to and more. He felt so blessed to have been there every step of the way.
Michael stirred slightly, squinting as he tried to figure out where he was.
“Get some sleep. I’ll wake you when we’re home.” Bill whispered.
Michael tilted his head, “You ever sleep? You’re like The Terminator.”
“Can we stop for burgers and shakes?” Michael grinned, releasing Y/N’s hand and adjusting his arm around her waist. Michael’s back to the cushion, holding her against his chest like she was the most delicate thing he’d ever laid his eyes on.
“That’s a good idea. I could eat.”
“I’m starving.” His fingers ran through Y/N’s hair as she slept peacefully. He’s so natural with her. He can be a person with her. He can be himself.
“Sleeping beauty here held her own.” Bill had been holding in a laugh all night. “We outta start calling her Princess Punch.”
“Yeah, what can I say, she knows how to take care of business.” Michael kissed the top of her head, his eyes fluttering shut, but still awake.
“She’s a diamond.” Michael corrected.
“Mhm. You better be planning to give her one sometime soon.”
“What makes you think I haven’t already?” Michael shot back with heavy cheekiness and a smug look on his face.
“Go to sleep, ya rascal. I’ll wake you both for food.” They laughed as Michael got comfortable, soon the sound of his gentle snores filled the backseat.
Bill studied their faces, even in deep slumber, the love between them was undeniable. He was so happy for his boy, for both of them. Suddenly, a chuckle sounded from his mouth, recalling the first time he experienced these two together.
“Come on. We can’t be late little man.” Bill announced, pacing the living room carpet of the Jackson house.
“We’re coming!” Michael’s little voice called back, followed by a jumble of scrambling noises.
Bill had learned not to question the ‘we.’ Michael was always bringing along his little pet friends. They brought him great comfort, which was more than okay with his chosen protector. So, when the young musician descended the stairs with a bright eyed girl on his tail, Bill was just the tiniest bit surprised.
“Hi! I’m Y/N.” The young girl spoke, her hand extended towards Bill, “It’s a pleasure to meet you, sir.”
“Hello, you can call me Bill.” He shook her hand, taken aback with how independent she seemed. It was a hell of a first impression to say the least.
“Alright, we’re ready!” Michael held his arm out, allowing Y/N to walk ahead of him.
“Woah, woah, hold on now.” The two kids looked at one another confused, “Are Joesph and Y/N’s parents aware she’ll be joining us today?” Bill locked the front door and walked down the path with both kids skipping around him.
“Of course. I’m Michael’s best friend.” Y/N replied like it was something he should’ve known. “Where he goes, I go.”
“And, where she goes, I go.” Michael explained, “She’s my entourage.”
“Is that right?” Bill beamed, this boy was always full of surprises. They stood on the sidewalk to continue the conversation.
“The news called me a rising star. That’s a small step away from celebrity. I need to surround myself with people that will keep me grounded.” Michael spoke like it was common sense. “That’s where Y/N comes in!”
“Exactly, I knew him before the fame, so he can trust me. I’ll make sure that no one takes advantage of him or tries to get close to him for the wrong reasons.” Y/N nodded, crossing her arms.
“That’s sweet. However, I believe that’s my job.” Bill held the door open, helping them to load their backpacks into the car.
“I suppose, but he’s my best friend. Fame, it can change people. I don’t want them to change my Michael.” There was more tied between those words, but Bill couldn’t quite understand it just yet.
He made his way to the driver’s side in time to catch the most important part.
“Don’t worry Minnie. I ain’t changing.” Michael held his pinky out for her— a pinky promise to seal the deal. They buckled in, flipping through their comic books as the car started moving.
“Mickey! Look!” She screeched, holding the comic she was reading up to him. They both cried out laughing uncontrollably.
After an hour, the backseat fell silent and Bill could finally hear the radio again. He peeked through the rearview mirror, his two little passengers had drifted off to sleep. Michael was sprawled out on top of an oversized teddy bear, Y/N curled up into his side and of course, their hands were clasped together.
Bill chuckled lowly, at that age, every friendship feels like it’s going to last a lifetime. You don’t know that you’ll make new friends all the time. Some friends will grow with you, some won’t and you see them less and less. Eventually, you move on. You bounce back a lot faster as a kid.
But, he had this feeling.
And, it was stronger than a hunch, he could feel it, these two were special.
Michael was glowing. He was truly happy. That didn’t happen. Ever. The way he was expected to carry so much on his shoulders. He dealt with so much pressure and pain. Bill always had trouble understanding how he did it all. He’s so young, but no matter how much was taken from him he was still kind. He never got the chance to be a kid, to be himself— without judgment.
He deserved to have someone who embraced who he is. He really is such an amazing kid.
He had found that with this sensational little lady.
She helped him to be a kid, instead of staring at him or poking fun at him. She knew how great he was and appreciated him. Hell, she even wanted to tag along as his entourage just to protect him.
This young lady, she’s his escape. And, she was determined to be there for her best friend by any means necessary.
That made one fact very clear.
They were going to grow up together. They were going to be inseparable in every era of their lives.
Y/N was going to be around for a lifetime.