Are you a campfire? Because you’re hot & I want s’more.
Pairing(s): Aleks/James (NovaHD) and… well, you’ll just have to find out.
Words: 2,047
AO3
Summary: Summer rolls around once more and really, there’s a tradition to uphold and the tents & camp fire are calling their name. Except Dan and Jordan are going to have their hands full keeping James & Aleks apart for a different reason. (Part of the ‘Is that a flicker in your eyes?’ universe.)
One Two Three Four Five Six Seven Eight Nine TenEleven Twelve ThirteenFourteenFifteenSixteenSeventeen EighteenNineteen Twenty Twenty-One
A/N: I will always love these characters, I will always love this story and in a way, I’ll always love The Creatures.
The next morning, Aleks swore that Jordan was ripping open his tent door before the sun had even risen. That or his father’s large body was blocking out the light. Aleks ducked further into his sleeping bag, pressing his nose against the side and breathing in the cheap polyester.
“C’mon, Aleks – get up or you’ll miss the mountain walk,” Jordan said.
“Oh no, I’ll miss exercising. I’ll just have to sleep more.” Aleks stretched as much as he could inside his sleeping bag. Jordan kicked at his wriggling body. Aleks groaned peeped his head out. Jordan raised his eyebrow at him. Aleks slowly unzipped his bag and yawned. It was only when he raised his arms above his head and pushed his feet into the bottom of his sleeping bag that Jordan left.
“I want you out here in ten minutes Aleks or you’ll miss breakfast,” Jordan said. Aleks rolled his eyes but started to unzip his sleeping bag.
James, Seamus, Eddie and Dan were huddled around the grill. Eddie pulled the crispy, brown bits of egg from his roll. He flicked them onto a paper towel. Dan picked each piece up and shoved it into his mouth. James supported his head on one fist, watching the tent Aleks was getting dressed in. He squinted at the shadow he could see through the flimsy material. He closed his eyes for a second to imagine what Aleks looked like at that moment. It was as close to Aleks as he could get until the trip was over. Seamus was sucking on his fingers in an effort to try and clean them. Jordan clicked his tongue and pulled from his shirt pocket a scented wipe he’d hoarded from the many restaurants they’d visited that week. Seamus thanked him in the form of a smile. His finger popped as he pulled it from his mouth. Jordan shivered as he saw the streaks of ketchup smeared across Seamus’ finger.
Jordan scoffed as Aleks came swaggering out of the tent. He had his hands rammed into the pockets of his skinny jeans. The skin of his fingers bunched up around the lining. His hair remained unbrushed as it stuck out at odd angles. His jacket was rolled up at the sleeves and his shoes had more holes in them than a net. Aleks shielded his eyes from the sun with large dark sunglasses. As he got closer to the group, he tipped his head and the glasses slid down the bridge of his nose. Aleks slipped into James’ lap and winked at his boyfriend.
“That doesn’t look appropriate for mountain walking,” Jordan said. Aleks rolled his eyes at him.
“It doesn’t need to be appropriate, I look cool.” Aleks shot finger guns at his father. Jordan opened his mouth to say something else but James beat him to it.
“You look like a douchebag,” James said. Aleks whacked him on the arm for his efforts.
“Right, come on – Aleks, eat something and let’s go,” Dan clapped his hands together.
_-_
James and Aleks bumped shoulders as their steps started get slower and slower. They watched their families start to disappear over a hill. They came to a stop and James tugged his boyfriend off of the path. Aleks looked down at their hands and smiled. James used his thumb to guide Aleks’ eyes to his. He pinched the frames of Aleks’ sunglasses and pulled them away so that he could see his boyfriend.
“Hey,” James said. Aleks’ eyes wrinkled at the corners as he laughed, leaning forward into James’ chest. His breath tickled James’ neck as he giggled into it. James tried not to smile, burying his face in Aleks’ bedhead to try and hide it. Aleks stood back up after a few minutes, wiping away a few stray tears that had slipped. “This is our spot,” James said. Aleks looked around.
“Are you sure? It doesn’t look like the exact spot,” he said. James rolled his eyes.
“A technicality – it’s still the same place we first kissed.” James tucked Aleks’ sunglasses into the collar of his shirt. He brushed his thumb across Aleks’ cheek.
Aleks was the one who leaned forward, letting their lips meet in a gentle caress. For a second they just shared breath, savouring the moment, before they deepened the kiss. James’ fingers slipped into Aleks’ hair and ruffled it further. Aleks’ fingers wound around James’ shirt and pulled. The material wrinkled between his fingers. It felt as though their whole summer had led to this moment. They broke away for just a second to catch their breath, caught each other’s eyes and both thanked their lucky stars that they were dating. Then James pressed his lips back against Aleks’, snaking his arm around his boyfriend’s waist and pulling him impossibly close.
“Eeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeew, gross.” Eddie cupped his hands around his mouth. James and Aleks leapt away from one another. Aleks placed his heart against his chest as he realised that it was just Eddie. James went bowling towards him, hands curled into fists. As he came upon his younger brother, Eddie threw his hands up in surrender and backed away. Seamus popped up from behind Eddie. He slid in front of his best friend and smiled sweetly up at James.
“What are you doing here?” James growled. Seamus stepped back against his friend.
“We wanted you guys so that we could do something,” Seamus said. James frowned.
“It couldn’t have waited?” He folded his arms across his chest. Aleks walked over to the three of them and cupped James’ shoulder. He gave it a little squeeze.
“What did you want, Moose?” Aleks said.
Seamus reached into his pocket and pulled out the headless lady from the tiny town. Aleks took her from him, running his thumb over her neck where her head would have been attached.
“Oh yeah, I forgot about her.” Aleks showed the figure to James. James rolled his eyes.
“Cool, you brought the headless lady on a walk. Now if you don’t mind,” James tugged on Aleks hand. His boyfriend pulled away from him and clicked his tongue.
“What did you want to do with her?” Aleks handed the figure to his brother. Seamus shrugged.
“I thought we could bury her,” Seamus said. Aleks gasped and snatched the figure back.
“But why? She’s awesome!” Aleks cradled the figurine to his chest. He rubbed down her back and cooed at it as thought it was a real woman. James rolled his eyes.
“We’ll probably come back next year and do the same walk so I just thought it’d be fun to see if she’s still here,” Seamus said. Aleks frowned back at him.
“Why can’t we just bury something not so cool, like you?” Aleks said.
Seamus scoffed. He stole the figurine back from Aleks and stomped over to where his older brother and James had been standing.
“Fine, if you don’t want to help bury her then buzz off.” Seamus crouched and ran his fingers against the ground. His nails disturbed dirt and brought some up.
“We were here first!” James threw his hands up. He watched as Eddie trod all over his and Aleks’ sacred spot and knelt in the dirt with Seamus. Aleks looked at his boyfriend. James stuck out his lower lip. He tugged on Aleks’ hand and gestured with his head to another spot – away from their younger brother’s eyes. Instead of complying, Aleks pulled James in the opposite direction. He guided his boyfriend to kneel in the dirt with their younger brothers and started to use his fingers to help dig it up. James groaned but shoved his hands into the ground anyway.
They piled the dirt that they brought up to one side. When they’d made it deep enough, as per Seamus’ instruction, Eddie reached in and placed the headless lady into the hole. As he pulled his hands out, the bracelet on his wrist snagged on a twig that was trapped in the dirt. He ripped it away. Eddie didn’t notice that he’d torn the bracelet. The group of boys packed the earth on top of the figurine. When it was done, Seamus got James to break off a piece of bark from a nearby tree. They shoved it into the ground in a way that eerily resembled a grave stone.
“This is kind of morbid,” James commented. Seamus only shrugged. He stood up and brushed the dirt from his knees. He grabbed Eddie’s hand and helped him up. Even once Eddie was all right to stand by himself, they didn’t let go. Aleks stood up too and James held out his hand expectantly. Aleks turned the other way.
James huffed as he pushed himself up. His fingers brushed something softer than dirt but he didn’t pay it any attention. He looked at his muddied hands and smirked to himself as Aleks looked away. His boyfriend cried out as James wiped his hands down his back. Aleks tutted as he turned around. He grabbed James’ wrists and used his grip to wipe the dirt from James’ hands onto his own face. James sputtered and closed his eyes. When he was dirty enough, Aleks let him go.
“Aleksandr, look what you’ve done!” James dragged his fingers down his cheek and showed them to his boyfriend. Aleks shrugged.
“You deserved it,” he said. James grumbled something and lunged at his boyfriend. Aleks darted away and James chased him around the path.
“What idiots,” Eddie said. Seamus couldn’t help but nod and agree.
“What on earth did you boys get up to?” Dan wiped sweat from his forehead. He panted as he came to a halt, surveying the children before him. They were brown from head to toe. James and Aleks were breathless. James had his boyfriend in an unbreakable hold and occasionally Aleks twitched to try and escape it. Eddie and Seamus simply shrugged.
“Children, am I right?” Seamus said. He grinned at his own father. Jordan had his fingers wound into his hair and his teeth were bared to the world in an unpleasant grimace.
“We need to get you lot back to the camp so that you can take a shower,” Jordan said. He stormed ahead of their small group, wrinkling his nose at how dirty all of the boys were. Dan followed behind, walking in step with Seamus and Eddie while James and Aleks lagged behind.
“Y’know, next year all four of you will make it all the way through the trail,” Dan said. Seamus and Eddie laughed because yeah, right.
It wasn’t until they were in the car that Eddie noticed that his wrist was once again bare. He gasped and showed it to Seamus. When they demanded that they turned the car around, both boys went ignored. Eddie sniffled. They’d made the bracelets to show their love and Eddie had lost his. Seamus linked their hands once again and smiled at his best friend.
“It’s okay – I can make you a better one when we’re home,” Seamus reassured. Eddie thanked him though he knew it wouldn’t feel the same. He tried to think of where it was and remembered that he’d snagged it when they had buried the headless lady. It made him sad to think that something Seamus had worked so hard on was covered in dirt and broken. Still, he smiled to himself as he was filled with hope that when they returned the next year, the bracelet would just be buried there with her and they’d find it again.
Though when they did return a year later, the headless lady was still buried in her spot but all that was left of the bracelet were a few strands caked in mud. Seamus laughed at it and shook his head when Eddie cried out. He reminded Eddie of the new bracelet he’d made him and how Eddie somehow still had that one intact. It didn’t untangle the knot that had tied itself in Eddie’s stomach. He knew it was silly, but he couldn’t help but think the broken bracelet was a sign. He could only hope that the love he felt for Seamus and the love that Seamus felt for him would survive a lot longer than the cheap material of the bracelet.
Are you campfire? Because you’re hot & I want s’more.
Pairing(s): Aleks/James (NovaHD) and… well, you’ll just have to find out.
Words: 3,028
AO3
Summary: Summer rolls around once more and really, there’s a tradition to uphold and the tents & camp fire are calling their name. Except Dan and Jordan are going to have their hands full keeping James & Aleks apart for a different reason. (Part of the ‘Is that a flicker in your eyes?’ universe.)
One Two Three Four Five Six Seven Eight Nine TenEleven Twelve Thirteen Fourteen FifteenSixteen Seventeen Eighteen Nineteen
A/N: whAT’’S THIS? She said weekly and meant it? Horrifying, truly horrifying.
“I can’t, I can’t believe it,” Aleks was doubled over again. He was smacking his knee, trying to regain composure but every time he straightened up and looked at James he laughed again. Even Seamus and Eddie were giggling, though both were trying to hide it in case James went after them.
“Now, now,” Dan said as he watched the tip of his son’s ears go red, “we shouldn’t be laughing. We should be very proud of James, he managed the zip wire.” Dan pat James’ back. He was proud of James, he’d done well. He’d promised James that if he even attempted it, he’d buy him a gift. James was now quite happily holding an oversized icee cup shaped like a tree.
“Yeah, he did it and I’m amazed but, but – why did you yell like Tarzan?” Aleks choked on his words.
“I didn’t mean to! It just happened, okay. Now shut up or I’m leaving you back at the campsite and bringing Eddie on our date,” James threatened.
Aleks stood up, all laughter gone from his face. Instead his nose was wrinkled and he looked at James as though he was a piece of poo.
“Ew, that’s gross James. You don’t take your younger brother on a date,” Aleks said. James flipped Aleks off.
“Well, duh, it wouldn’t be a date if I took Eddie, would it? It’d be… a brother thing.” James shrugged. Aleks was still pulling that stupid face at him but at least he’d stopped laughing. Eddie looked slightly disappointed, he’d wanted to know what his brother and Aleks did on their dates. Beside kissing, that is. He was sure that was pretty much all they did but they had to do something else – right?
“Right, before we leave does anyone else need to go to the bathroom?” Jordan wiped his hands on his shorts. The moment they’d stepped on solid ground he’d high-tailed it to the toilets and had been there for an awkwardly long time. Dan and all of the boys shook their heads. “All right then, is everybody ready to go then?” Jordan looked to everyone. They all nodded. He led the way, glad to see the last of the retched place. It was mid-afternoon and all he could think about was lunch. Dan had promised something good and something greasy and it was all that Jordan could think about. He could picture it now, an oversized burger oozing cheese and packed with salady goodness. Or, or, Jordan thought, it could be some ribs or bacon that sizzled while Dan cooked. Jordan rubbed at his stomach. Yeah, food is what he needed right now.
_ -_
The car was still running when Jordan jumped out. By the time Dan had shut his own door, Jordan stood in front of him holding the BBQ and the tools Dan would need to make food. Dan laughed though he took the BBQ, walking far too slowly around the car for Jordan’s liking. Jordan gently pushed at his back to encourage him to move faster.
“Is anyone else hungry?” Dan almost stumbled as he set the BBQ down, Jordan pushing a little too heavily. Seamus’ hand shot up before Dan had even finished the word ‘hungry’. Eddie shrugged, smiling at his friend as he waved his hand back and forth frantically. James looked to Aleks, who looked back at James, and they both shook their heads.
Jordan hovered over Dan while he cooked, shadowed by his son. They were both watering at the mouth, rubbing their hands together and sniffing the air at random periods of time. Dan was almost blinded when Aleks took a photo of them all, reviewing it and smiling down at his phone. Dan blinked away the flashes of light Aleks’ phone had left behind and poked at the meat.
“Are you sure you two don’t want any food?” Dan asked. James and Aleks had changed since they’d got home. Dan’s son was wearing dark jeans and a shirt, while Jordan’s son wore ripped jeans and a t-shirt. Come to think of it, Dan wasn’t sure he’d ever seen Aleks wear anything formal. James didn’t seem to mind the fact that his boyfriend wasn’t as dressed up as he was.
“Nah, we’re all right – we’re heading off soon,” Aleks said.
James walked up to him and pulled on his elbow. Aleks turned to face him, showing James the photo he’d just taken. James smiled at first, then looked up and saw how crazed Seamus and Jordan looked. It couldn’t be long before they were ravenously ripping into the ribs his Dad had made. James wasn’t sure he wanted to around for that and besides, he was getting a little hungry himself. He tugged again on Aleks’ arm, nodding in the direction away from their little pitch.
“Seriously, c’mon – we can go and get some food before your Dad and Moose eat everything,” James said. Aleks let his boyfriend guide him, though he couldn’t take his eyes from his family as Dan placed the first rib onto a paper plate. Jordan looked like he was ready to fight Seamus for it. Before that could happen though, James had dragged Aleks so that they were out of sight.
James grabbed Aleks’ hand and swung their arms back and forth. The campsite was pretty quiet and most of the campers were out doing things just as they had this morning. They saw the occasional family sitting outside soaking up the nice weather. It was warm, but not too warm that it was uncomfortable and a gentle breeze would occasionally brush through the campsite and rustle some tents. Birds chirped from the trees that dotted around the gravel path they followed. It crunched beneath their feet as they walked in comfortable silence. Aleks was content to look around and James was content to simply look at him. It was hard to believe they’d stomped about this idyllic place last year hating each other’s guts.
“So, where are we going?” Aleks asked once he’d seen all that he could see. After a while all the tents tended to look the same and the families could be rather loud and would disturb his peaceful watching. He looked to James now, who was smiling back at him.
“Oh, just a five star restaurant,” James said. Aleks rolled his eyes. Yeah, they were going to get into a five star restaurant in jeans. Still, he played along.
“Nice. How are we going to get there?” Aleks swung their arms a little more roughly. James clicked his tongue and whacked his forehead with his hand.
“I didn’t think that part through, fuck, guess we’ll just have to eat at the clubhouse instead,” James said.
Aleks’ eyes went wide. They hadn’t been back to the clubhouse since that night. He looked down at his bandaged hand and it seemed to throb with the memory.
“The clubhouse? Are they even going to let us in?” Aleks asked. James shrugged.
“Hopefully. If they don’t, we’ll just go into the woods and steal Yogi Bear’s pic-uh-nic basket,” James said and Aleks laughed. In truth, he didn’t have a plan if they weren’t let in. They might have to turn around and beg Dan to make them some food too. James just hoped it didn’t come to that because he was sure once they were there, they’d never leave. His dad would rope them into a game of monopoly and they’d be at the campsite for months trying to lose the game and be free.
When they got to the clubhouse the security on the door did look at them funnily. He whispered something into his radio as they passed through but they weren’t stopped or told to leave. James sighed and led Aleks through to the bar area. In the day it was well lit and practically empty. There was a couple sitting by the bar having their own lunch, a large family being obnoxious in the middle of the room and a lone old man on a table close to the door. James led his boyfriend towards the tables by the stage even though it was empty and the curtains were closed. He pulled out a chair for Aleks to sit down and helped to tuck him in once he had. He gave Aleks his menu, classily printed on an A4 piece of paper with clipart and laminated for extra protection, and took his own seat. Their options weren’t exactly 5* material, ranging from a burger and a portion of fries to nachos.
Aleks sat studying the menu, hmming and aaahing, every so often. James scoffed every time and put his menu down pretty quickly. Aleks peered at him over his menu.
“What are you going to have?” He asked.
“Just a burger and fries, I think – what about you?” James said. Aleks nodded, looked thoughtful and then glanced back down at the menu.
“I’m not sure, I heard that the burger is to die for and it does sound tempting but you see, I am rather swayed by the hot dog with a side of onion rings,” Aleks said. He reminded James of every actor who’d ever played a Butler on TV as he tried to put on a crappy British accent.
“Oh, right – did you see the sandwiches though? I know they’re small but they were featured in that food magazine,” James played along. Aleks laughed behind his menu.
“Cheap, you mean. I assume you’re paying?” Aleks looked at him again. James nodded. “In that case I think I’ll stick to my hot dog. Make sure you get the onion rings too.” Aleks grinned.
James sighed heavily. It’s not as though the clubhouse was particularly expensive but he was a teenager after all and despite his part time job and the odd pocket money from his Dad he wasn’t rich. Still, this had been his idea and it was his turn to treat Aleks.
“Fine, if you insist. What would you like to drink with your food? Perhaps some wine?” James asked. Aleks raised his eyebrow, questioning whether the offer was real. They weren’t old enough, clearly, but it could be worth a shot. Then again, Aleks hadn’t done so well after the beer.
“No, no – it’ll go to my head and I’ve got to drive home yet. I’ll just have a soda please.” Aleks put his menu down and James nodded.
He watched his boyfriend go, smiling as James approached the bar. He couldn’t see him very well but Aleks knew that even after just a second of waiting James would start to drum his fingers against the bar. He was the only one there though so the bartender did come up to him rather quickly. Aleks kept watching as James was served and then as he started to come back to the table. He carried the two sodas in his hand like they were live bombs, staring intently at the glasses as the liquid threatened to spill over the top of the glass. Aleks shook his head as James neared, jokingly shaking one of the glasses and only serving to spill it onto his own shoe. James placed that one in front of Aleks and the undisturbed glass in front of himself.
“Thanks.” Aleks’ nose wrinkled as he wiped the sticky soda off of the side of his glass.
“No problem,” James beamed.
They sat in silence for a moment before Aleks nodded towards the stage.
“Are you enjoying the entertainment?” He asked. James frowned. He quickly glanced at the stage and then back to Aleks to make sure that nothing had happened while he had gone to get the drinks. The curtains were still drawn and the only sound besides the other customers’ conversation was some old 90s pop music they were playing quietly through the speaker. It took James a second to catch on and only then did he smile and relax into his seat.
“Oh, yes, the topless dancers really do add some class to this place,” James grinned. Aleks rolled his eyes and sipped at his soda.
“Mm, though I’m worried one of their nipple tassles might come loose and fly into our drinks,” Aleks said.
James reached across and covered Aleks’ cup for him. He looked deep into Aleks’ eyes and slowly nodded as he spoke:
“Don’t worry, I’ll protect your soda.” James cracked up then, pulling his hand back and shaking it where his fingers had touched the sticky side.
“Just how you protected me on that zip wire?” Aleks relaxed back into his chair, smirking.
“You forced me on that and it wasn’t my fault that at one point you wobbled, it was your own doing. We could have been on the ground, you know, like sane people do.” James snapped.
“If you’re going to be grumpy, I guess I might have to drive back early…” Aleks ran his finger around the rim of his glass. James pouted and gestured to the drink.
“After I spent all this money on your food? How rude of you,” James said. Aleks shrugged.
“Well, the dancer on the far right looks like her nipple tassle might fly off and ruin it any minute now,” Aleks said.
The waiter coughed as he held their food. He looked at Aleks strangely and smiled at James.
“Hot dog?” He asked. James nodded to Aleks, covering his laughter behind his hand and slumping further into his seat. Aleks’ face flushed and he thanked the waiter under his breath as his food was put in front of him. The waiter handed James’ burger and nodded to the pair. “I’ll be bringing the onion rings over in just a minute.” He said before he rushed away. Aleks smacked his hand against his face and hung his head in shame. He groaned beneath his fingers and James let himself laugh out loud. Aleks looked at him through his fingers and pouted despite James not being able to see.
“You could have warned me,” Aleks snapped. James held his hands up in surrender.
“I didn’t know!” James declared his innocence. He wish he had though, he’d have stolen Aleks’ stupid selfie stick and taken a photo of the complete and utter fail.
The waiter came by and dropped off the onion rings. He placed them between the pair in the middle of the table. Aleks was quick to pull them closer to him, shielding the little bowl with his arm.
“What are you doing that for?” James said as he chomped on a fry. Aleks glared at him.
“You’ll eat them.” He said. James frowned, picking up his burger and taking a bite.
“No I wo’” James said but Aleks kept his defence up. He awkwardly held his hot dog up one-handedly and James grinned as Aleks struggled to keep the sausage inside of the bun. He swallowed his bite and nodded in his boyfriend’s direction, “struggling?” James asked. Aleks shook his head. The sausage slipped out of the bun and landed with a plop on Aleks’ plate. James cracked up, clapping his hands together and pointing at his boyfriend.
Aleks scowled and reached across the table, snatching a handful of fries from James’ plate.
“Hey, you can’t do that!” James tried to take some of Aleks’ onion rings but he was slapped away aggressively. “I paid for it.” He tried again but Aleks pushed him back. Then he grabbed one onion ring and chucked it across the table. James almost dropped it. He caught it just before it rolled off of the table. Aleks wrinkled his nose as he took a great bite.
“You’re gross,” Aleks said as he reached across and took some more of James’ fries. James frowned.
“If you’d have just let me take one I wouldn’t have to have eaten the one that rolled across this gross table,” James said.
“Yeah well, it’s the only one that you’re getting.” Aleks stuck his tongue out at his boyfriend. He reached across for more fries but this time James slapped him away.
“Fuck you, Aleksandr.” He smiled.
They escaped the clubhouse the second they were done. It was starting to fill up as the day crawled on and neither of them really wanted to wait around to see the entertainment.
“This was nice, thank you.” Aleks said. He retook James’ hand and kissed the back of it.
“Gay,” James snorted. Aleks huffed and dropped his their hands. James clicked his tongue and forced their hands back together. He stepped closer to Aleks and bumped their shoulders, “just kidding. I had fun.” James said. Aleks nodded. It was nice, simple. That was all they needed after the excitement of the day. The walked slowly back to their camp, not wanting to rejoin their family just yet. There were more people milling around now and they could smell plenty of BBQs being set alit.
“Shall we just get into a tent when we get back?” Aleks asked.
“And do what, Aleksandr?” James wriggled his eyebrows up and down. Aleks scoffed, disgusted.
“Not what you’re thinking, James. I just mean so that we don’t get roped into monopoly,” Aleks said. James nodded. That sounded like a great idea.
When they returned to camp, their dads and brothers were too engrossed in the monopoly game to realise that they had come home. They snuck into what was supposed to be James’ and Eddie’s tent and got comfortable in James’ sleeping bag after stripping down to just their boxers and their t-shirts. Aleks’ hands were tucked up between his and James’ chests. James wrapped his arms around his boyfriend and drew mindless shapes against his back. He pressed a kiss to Aleks’ forehead.
“I hope we come back here next year,” Aleks said quietly.
“Yeah? You growing fond of bugs and early mornings?” James asked. Aleks shook his head.
“No, it’s just a special place.” Aleks smiled up at him. James mirrored his expression. He moved forward to kiss Aleks properly and they fell into the familiar pattern of their lips and tongues sliding together. Yeah, James thought, it really was a special place.
Are you a campfire? Because you’re hot & I want s’more.
Pairing(s): Aleks/James (NovaHD) and… well, you’ll just have to find out.
Words: 2,443
AO3
Summary: Summer rolls around once more and really, there’s a tradition to uphold and the tents & camp fire are calling their name. Except Dan and Jordan are going to have their hands full keeping James & Aleks apart for a different reason. (Part of the ‘Is that a flicker in your eyes?’ universe.)
One Two Three Four Five Six Seven Eight Nine TenEleven Twelve Thirteen FourteenFifteenSixteenSeventeen Eighteen Nineteen Twenty Twenty-One
Dan wasn’t too sure about heading to the clubhouse that night, what with their eventful day and the early morning that loomed over them, but he gave in to Seamus and Eddie’s pleading. The security guard scowled at Aleks and James but he nodded when Dan and Jordan passed by. Seamus and Eddie broke off from the group almost immediately, rushing the arcade machines with the handful of coins Dan had bestowed upon them.
“Don’t waste them all, I’m not giving you anymore,” Dan said. A lie, truly, but the way Seamus and Eddie slowed down showed that they believed it. Jordan had already slipped away to the bar area and Aleks and James weren’t too far behind him. Dan watched Seamus and Eddie drop their coins into one of the machines for a little while, smiling when he noticed that any tickets Eddie won he gave to Seamus. When Eddie looked up, handful of coins almost depleted, Dan ducked into the bar.
Jordan and the boys had claimed a table right near the front. Aleks pushed back against the back of his chair, his feet resting upon James’ lap. He cupped his soda in one hand and was fiddling with a piece of paper in the other. As Dan neared the table, he saw that it was a bingo sheet and that Jordan had a similar one in front of him. Jordan seemed to have only splashed out for one dabber though. Dan took a seat in one of the empty chairs, pointing at Jordan’s sheet and pouting.
“Where’s mine?” Dan tried to tug Jordan’s away but the other man slammed his hand down onto the table. Jordan nodded to the one in Aleks’ hand and the teenager’s mouth fell open.
“But dad, I really, really, really wanted to play bingo!” Aleks held the sheet against his chest.
One of Jordan’s eyebrow lifted and he stared at Aleks for a moment. Aleks remained scorned, looking back at his father as though his heart had been broken.
“Are you serious? You want to play bingo with us?” Jordan’s voice broke at the end. He smiled hopefully at his eldest son. This was it, this was the moment they could bond on this trip.
“No, dad. Bingo is for old people,” Aleks flicked the paper toward Dan. Dan pinched it between his fingers, placing it down onto the table and smoothing down the corners. Jordan coughed to hide his disappointment, shifting in his seat and pointedly looking out towards the stage as the entertainer took their place in the middle.
“Then go hang out with your little brother then – he’s more your age range,” Jordan said. Aleks opened his mouth to retort but James threw his legs off of his lap and pulled on Aleks’ arm.
“Yeah, let’s see what they’ve gotten themselves into,” James said. His tone gave Aleks no room to argue.
Aleks freed his arm from James’ grip the moment they escaped to the fluorescent arcade area. He turned his back on his boyfriend and scowled at one of the grab machines. James’ chin made Aleks jump as it pressed into his shoulder. He turned his head so that he could see less of James’ dumb face. James pushed his lips out as far as possible so that no matter how far Aleks turned, he could still see them out of the corner of his eye.
“You didn’t have to side with my dad,” Aleks said. He couldn’t see it but he knew that James was rolling his eyes at him. He knew because his boyfriend sighed heavily and it was rare that James sighed like that without rolling his eyes too.
“I didn’t, I was siding with you. You said bingo was for old people so I thought we should go and find the young people,” James tried to explain himself. Aleks scoffed.
“I still don’t forgive you,” he said. He craned his neck away from James’ lips as they sought to butter him up by peppering him with kisses.
“What can I do to change that?” James murmured against his skin.
Aleks stared ahead at the grab machine again. He remembered how James had won him over once before. He’d come clambering into the tent and chucked a bullet bill at him in the middle of the night. Aleks had been smitten then and he knew exactly how James could fix it now.
“I want that shark,” Aleks said. He pointed it out to James. James reluctantly looked up from his boyfriend’s neck to see it. It was pushed against the wall of the claw machine, so far off to the side James wasn’t even sure the claw would go that far. James detached himself from his boyfriend and walked closer to investigate. He looked at the rail the claw travelled across. It might reach the tail but that wasn’t big enough for the claw to grab.
“What about the dinosaur? That’s going to be easier to grab,” James said. He was already feeding the machine his money.
“Nope, want the shark.” Aleks leaned against the machine and smirked.
James moved the claw as far over as it could go. He adjusted it just slightly so that it was in line with the shark and then he let it drop. The claw sailed downwards, swung to the side, caught the shark at the base of its tail and pinched. As it lifted it up, it brought the ass of the shark up with it. When it started to move towards the little drop off hole, the shark slipped from its grasp and fell back amongst the other plush animals. James looked at Aleks, gesturing towards the machine in a fashion that said ‘I told you so’. Aleks only shrugged and glanced again back at the shark. It wasn’t that he wanted it that badly, in fact in any other circumstances he would have just told James to leave it. But now, as James inserted more coins into the machine and grit his teeth, Aleks knew that he just had to have it.
It was by the fourth or fifth time that James started shaking the machine. He’d managed to move the shark towards the centre but not by much. The damned claw had a habit of pinching and then just opening itself up like the whore it was. James’ right foot started tapping about twenty minutes in and it hadn’t stopped since. Aleks was amusing himself with his selfie stick, taking several selfies and grinning wider and wider with each picture. In every one James got more and more aggravated, occasionally blocking his face with one hand. Aleks grabbed his wrist and moved it aside, kissing James’ fingers as they twitched with annoyance. James tried once more, his pockets considerably silent compared to how they’d jingled earlier that evening. He held his breath as the claw caught the shark, squeezed its torso and lifted. Even Aleks gasped as the claw began to move, shark still attached, and he squeezed James’ wrist as the claw swung over the hole. The shark dropped, slamming its side on the plastic that separated the plush toy pit and the escape hole. It tilted unsurely towards the pit before slipping down into the hole.
Aleks snapped a picture just as James lifted him up in victory. He squeaked, using his free hand to claw at James’ shoulder. James let him down after a few seconds, though he kissed Aleks before he truly let him go. Aleks came back for more, deepening the kiss and letting James know that he’d definitely forgiven him now. He followed James’ lips as James started to bend down to retrieve their prize. They only broke apart when James thrust the shark into Aleks’ hand and looked down at it with a cheesy smile. He squeezed the shark’s nose and laughed.
“I can’t believe I won it,” James said. He wiped his brow as he thought back to the tense game.
“Me neither, I thought you’d never get it,” Aleks confessed. James scoffed.
“So you thought I’d never win you over again?” James played with the shark’s tail.
“Nah, I’m sure you’d have found your way back into my heart,” Aleks said. James beamed.
“Cool! Where’d you get that?” Eddie yanked the shark from Aleks’ hands and admired it. He huffed when Aleks snatched it back, cradling the plush toy to his chest and kissing its little soft head.
“James won it for me,” Aleks said. “He got it from that claw machine.” Aleks nodded at the machine. Eddie dashed over to it and pressed his face up against the glass. He breathed heavily against it, causing the glass to fog up. He jabbed his finger to the glass and pointed at a rhino.
“I want that one,” Eddie said. James leaned over his shoulder and frowned at it.
“All right, go and get it then,” James said. Eddie pushed himself away from the machine, grabbing his older brother’s arm and tugging insistently.
“But Jaaaaaaaames, you’re so much better at them than me! Please, please, please can you win it for me?” Eddie almost yanked his brother’s arm off as he leaned all of his weight upon it.
James groaned as he stole his arm away from his brother. He reached into his pocket but his fingers just brushing the lining of his pants. He slipped his hand into his other pocket and pulled out his wallet. He’d managed to acquire quite a bit of change as Aleks was the type of boyfriend to steal his wallet and Aleks had this annoying habit of breaking James’ notes.
“Hold out your hands.” James nudged his brother’s arm. Eddie cupped his hands together. James poured all of his change into Eddie’s awaiting hands. He stole a quarter from Eddie’s palm and pushed it into the machine. It lit up and started playing the music that had mocked James before. He fisted the handle and cranked it to the side. The claw soared towards its prize. It dropped, snatched the rhino up by its rounded stomach and brought it upwards. As if it hadn’t driven James mad for the better part of an hour, the claw machine dropped the rhino through the hole with a little plop.
Eddie pawned off all of the coins into Seamus’ unwilling hands so that he could snatch up his prize. He squeezed it so hard the poor thing’s plastic eyes seemed to pop out of its head. Seamus stood holding James’ coins. He stared at the claw machine and looked to James.
“All right Moose, what do you want?” James sighed. The blond chewed upon his lower lip. His eyes scanned all of the animals that he could see. He looked at Aleks’ shark and then to Eddie’s rhino. He looked back to the machine. Then he shrugged.
“Whatever you can win me,” Seamus said. James placed a hand on his waist, cocked his hip out and threw his head to the side. If he’d had hair as long as Seamus’, he would have resembled Prince Charming. Unfortunately, James’ hair was short and he only succeeded in looking stupid.
“I can win whatever one you want, Moose,” James said. To spite him, Seamus followed in his older brother’s footsteps and chose a duck plush that was in the corner of the claw machine. James puffed out his chest, took another quarter and set to work.
It took him almost another hour to get that duck, but that get that duck he did. Seamus’ hands were near empty when James placed the duck into them. He took what little change was left and pocketed it, leaning into the kiss Aleks pressed into his cheek. He tapped it again when Aleks let up and turned his head when Aleks moved to oblige. He flipped off their younger brothers as they made kissy noises and gagged behind them. They broke apart when the boys went silent and a deeper voice cleared their throat. Jordan towered above them, his brows furrowed and his hands upon his hip. Dan had his phone held up, having most likely snapped a picture of the adorable scene. Aleks sidled up to him and peered at the phone, muttering something to Dan about him sending the picture over. Jordan gestured towards the door and the group began to follow him.
“So, did you win at bingo?” James asked Jordan. They passed through the front door and nodded to the bouncers. They seemed glad to see the group leave. Jordan nodded and pulled out a ten dollar bill. He seemed pleased with his meagre winnings. At least he was until Seamus took it.
“Thanks dad, I needed this.” Seamus ran off. Jordan called after him but made no move to chase after his youngest son. James pat his arm.
“I know the feel,” James said. Jordan smirked down at him because of course James knew the feeling. He was dating his son and Jordan had taught Aleks well: to always spend other people’s money and to protect your own. He’d raised them right after all.
The campsite came upon them too quickly. Jordan and Dan saw their sons into the right tents, Jordan even going as far to wait outside for five minutes to make sure none of the kids swapped. When the hairs on his arm began to raise, Jordan decided it was time to climb into his own tent. He sat down beside Dan who was already snuggled deep inside his sleeping bag. His eyes were closed but when Jordan started to unzip his own sleeping bag, Dan cracked one eye open.
“Wow, I thought you’d guard out there all night,” he said. Jordan gestured to his arms.
“I got cold.” Jordan zipped his bag all the way up to his chin. He let his eyes fall closed, ready to embrace sleep and get on with their final morning.
“Are you sure it wasn’t your Dad senses? I bet Aleks is tunnelling under the ground towards James now,” Dan said. Jordan’s eyes snapped open.
He shot up, bag still zipped around him, and leaned toward the door. He wriggled in an attempt to get to the door and make sure that what Dan had said wasn’t true.
“I was joking Jordan, get some sleep – we’ve got an early morning,” Dan said. Jordan still sat up for a few moments. When he didn’t hear the sound of dirt being disturbed or the rustling of tent doors, Jordan laid back down. He closed his eyes once more and let himself enjoy their last night at the campsite.
Are you a campfire? Because you’re hot & I want s’more.
Pairing(s): Aleks/James (NovaHD) and… well, you’ll just have to find out.
Words: 2,132
AO3
Summary: Summer rolls around once more and really, there’s a tradition to uphold and the tents & camp fire are calling their name. Except Dan and Jordan are going to have their hands full keeping James & Aleks apart for a different reason. (Part of the ‘Is that a flicker in your eyes?’ universe.)
One Two Three Four Five Six Seven Eight Nine TenEleven Twelve Thirteen Fourteen Fifteen Sixteen Seventeen
A/N: Kind of short - but I have a break from University now so expect some s’more. ;)
“I give you twenty dollars and you come back with this?” Jordan held the Chinese finger trap in his hand. He hadn’t seen one in years, not since he and Dan had tried it out in that joke shop all those years ago. They were stupid, cheaply made and not worth his cash. “I want the rest of my money back.” Jordan held his palm out expectantly. Seamus raised his eyebrow at him,
“Your money? It’s my allowance.” Seamus had earned that money, one bite at a time.
“How much did you spend on this?” Jordan gave it back, dropping his palm when Seamus made no move to offer the money back. If it was more than fifty cents he was going to lose his mind.
“What do you care? You spend your money on what you want and I’ll spend it on what I want,” Seamus said.
“Seamus!” Jordan screeched.
Dan and the other boys had edged away from the pair. Eddie was gnawing holes into his lower lip, wringing his hands together as he watched his friend get chewed out.
“You know this is your fault, right?” James said because well, he couldn’t help himself.
“Shut up! You should have bought it for me,” Eddie said.
“Yeah? Would you have blushed when I held your ha-“ Eddie clamped his hand over his brother’s mouth. James had never seen such murder behind his brother’s eyes.
“Don’t speak,” Eddie whispered. Dan ignored them both, far too focused on Jordan and Seamus’ bickering. They’d have to go soon, there was probably only half an hour on the car park. Aleks wanted to ask what the big deal was. Eddie and Seamus had held hands a hundred times before. It was just something they did, something they had always done – since when did Eddie get embarrassed over it?
He couldn’t ask, though, because his father was done lecturing Seamus about taking care of his money and not spending it on stupid shit. It had ended when Seamus had pointed out the fact that Jordan had in fact come out of the thrift store with his own useless, overpriced find. Neither of Jordan’s sons would ever get the hype over the stupid figurines Jordan endlessly collected. Aleks smirked a little as he remembered their tiny town lady. He wondered if his father would like to add her to his collection. That’s if Seamus hadn’t thrown it out in fear yet. He’d have to remember to ask, right after he cornered James about the whole Eddie thing.
“Right,” Jordan clapped his hands together, “home time?”
“Yes, let’s all get back so that we can have some dinner and maybe play a game or something, as a family?” Dan had wanted to crack out that monopoly board he’d managed to sneak with them.
Unfortunately, none of the frowning faces gave Dan much hope for that happening. Still, he was sure he’d managed to snag them all at least once this week.
“Fine, let’s just go to the clubhouse again tonight.” Dan loved the clubhouse, he did, but there was only so much cheesy entertainment and over-priced, watered down drinks one could stomach.
“We’re all right, Aleks and I are just gonna stay back again tonight,” James said, opening the car door for his boyfriend.
“Yeah, my hand still hurts.” Aleks held it up to remind everyone of his injury, “I’d be no good on those arcade machines.”
“That’s all right, you can hang with me and your dad,” Dan beamed. James rolled his eyes at him. Well, so much for a family holiday. “Eddie, Seamus?” The two youngest boys shook their heads vigorously. Dan remembered the days when they couldn’t get enough of him. When he was the coolest guy around and there wasn’t a minute he found peace. He’d hated it then but now, as he watched his youngest son gleefully show his friend a millimetre of hair upon his chin, Dan missed it.
Even back at the camp, once he’d cooked them a meal and forced them to sit together, everyone was doing their own thing. Jordan rang his wife, understandable, but the boys skilfully ignored each other. James fiddled with the Chinese finger trap. Aleks flicked through his phone, occasionally lifting it to take the perfect selfie. Seamus fell in love with the burger he’d been given, eyes bulging and mouth watering around it. Eddie… Eddie kept chancing looks at Seamus. Come to think of it, Dan had seen that look before. Eyes wide, watching everything… Mouth twitching every time Seamus did anything remotely well, Seamus. Dan felt the word on the tip of his tongue. It tickled him and he wanted to spit it out. He couldn’t though, couldn’t get it out fast enough before his son was leaping up from his stool.
“C’mon Seamus, you’re taking foreveeeeeeeeeeeeer,” Eddie fell to his knees at his friend’s feet. He pouted up at Seamus, resting his chin upon the other boy’s knee. Seamus looked down at him from behind his burger. It was barely there, a bite from being finished but Seamus wasn’t ready to give it up. Not just yet, just five more minutes with what could have easily been called the love of his life.
“Yeah, Moose – just eat it already. I’m wasting away just watching you,” Aleks said. He hadn’t been watching, not really, but he’d say anything to put a stop to an ‘Eddie tantrum’.
“Just plop it into your mouth and eat it, it’s not that hard,” James chimed in. He had been watching. He’d seen the way Eddie had been jostling his leg just watching, waiting and then becoming aggressively impatient.
Seamus raised his eyebrow at them all. It was his burger, it was his love, it was his. He was going to savour each and every bite. Even when it went cold, it would still taste good. He knew it would.
“Please, I just want to go and make the bracelets already.” Eddie’s chin dug into Seamus’ knee as he spoke. Seamus could feel the hair he’d been shown earlier. Eddie let out a little whimper. So Seamus sighed heavily. He was sure to drag it out, to let Eddie know that this was absolutely not what he wanted. Then, when his breath was short and he thought he might pass out, Seamus ate the burger.
He stood up, still chewing. Eddie went sprawling. James laughed behind his hand. Even Dan had to look away and snicker discreetly into the crease of his elbow. Eddie glared at them all. He tucked his arm into Seamus’ and tugged him towards Seamus’ tent. He opened the door for them both, waving the boy inside. He waited until his friend had sat before he took a step inside himself. He turned to everyone still sitting around the campfire and with the dramatic flair only an Eddie scorned was capable of, he yanked the zip shut, enclosing him and Seamus in their own little bubble.
Seamus had already recovered the plastic box. He’d popped the lid off, looking at all the different colours of string and the beads it came with. The beads looked tacky and too clunky for him. He picked at the thread instead, looking up at Eddie before pulling out strands of red and white. Eddie almost kicked the box over as he scrambled to sit across from his friend, so close their knees touched. Seamus shielded the box, glaring at Eddie from underneath his eyebrows.
“Why aren’t you using the beads?” Eddie picked one up and peered through the tiny hole.
“They’re girly,” Seamus said. He started to weave the thread together with ease.
“Oh,” Eddie dropped the bead. He didn’t think that mattered. Still, he was making a bracelet for Seamus, his friend. Eddie looked at all the colours. He couldn’t resist the sparkly black one and thought that it would pair perfectly with the purple colour. He held them up for Seamus’ inspection. When Seamus nodded, it felt like Eddie had received an A on his math test (a feat he’d never quite managed).
He got to work, sneaking a glance at the bracelet Seamus was making. Seamus had gone for a classic three strand braid which was nice, Eddie could agree but he wanted to do one better. He went for an ambitious fish tail braid. Eddie began by knotting the top, feeling his tongue slip through his lips as he threaded the strands together. It went better than expected, not perfect – a little lopsided and definitely a little too loose but it was at least a solid strand. Seamus finished before Eddie by minutes, pinching the ends of his so that they didn’t come loose.
“Um,” Seamus said when Eddie held his up, “I’ll tie yours first?” Seamus leant forward with bracelet in hand. Eddie kept his pinched between his fingers. He giggled as Seamus wrapped the thread around his wrists. Seamus smiled too as he tied the bracelet so that it fit Eddie’s wrist. He pulled it a little to make sure it wouldn’t slip off but ensured it was loose enough to stay. When he was done, there was a lot of extra thread just hanging off of Eddie’s wrist.
“We’re going to need scissors,” Seamus said. Eddie shook his head.
“Why? I like it!” He shook his wrist, forgetting about the bracelet in his hand. It unwound a little as it slipped from his fingers. Eddie gasped, trying to thread it back together. “Seamus, Seamus – quick, quick!” Eddie almost burned Seamus’ arm with the speed he wrapped the thread around his wrist. He pulled it too tight, at first, but Seamus hissed and he immediately loosened it. Eddie tightened it and noticed there was a lot more thread hanging from Seamus’ arm than there was his. Seamus turned his wrist slowly, marvelling at his bracelet. Eddie did the same. They were simple but very, very pretty. Seamus looked up for just a second and Eddie caught his gaze. They smiled at one another. Seamus gestured towards the tent door.
“I’ll go ask Dad if he brought any scissors,” Seamus said.
He started to push himself up. His palm caught the extra thread and it tugged and tightened the bracelet. Seamus stuck his finger between the bracelet and his skin to loosen it. He showed it to Eddie to prove his earlier point and then he reached for the zip of the tent. That was as far as he ever got, falling back as he heard his father shout from outside.
“No, James! I want to be the race car, not the stupid thimble,” Jordan was screeching. Seamus shared another look with Eddie. An all-knowing “let’s not bother them” look.
“What do you want to do now?” Seamus pushed the box aside. Eddie frowned.
“Well, we’ve still got lots of thread left.” He picked some out.
“So? Want to make another bracelet?” Seamus wanted to try and do a fancy braid this time.
“Nah,” Eddie pulled a little bit out, “but I can try and braid it into your hair… if you want.”
Seamus stared back at him. Eddie pulled out some blue thread, dangling it near his own short hair and trying to show Seamus just how cool he’d look with it in his. Eddie hadn’t thought it had worked but then Seamus shrugged and said, “Ok.”
So Eddie shuffled closer until their knees weren’t just touching, they were overlapping. Seamus was so close Eddie could pick out his individual eyelashes. He cleared his throat and reached out. It would have been easier for him to just get up and braid it from the back but well, the view was definitely better. Eddie weaved his fingers into Seamus’ hair and smiled at the familiar texture. It was so soft, not clogged with gel like Eddie’s hair often was. He thought it looked nice and Seamus liked to help him stick it up. Eddie wove the thread into a simple three strand braid. When he was done, he tugged on his bracelet instead of the hairband on his other wrist. They shared a laugh that died off until they were just looking at each other instead.
Eddie fiddled with the end of the braid. This was his moment, Seamus was his love, this was it. He was going to savour each and every second. He knew even if it went wrong, it would still be great. He knew it would.
“Eddie?” Seamus’ hand touched Eddie’s. Eddie could feel the friendship bracelet tickle his wrist. Seamus swallowed. So Eddie leaned forward. He was sure to hesitate, to be sure this was absolutely what Seamus wanted. Then, when his breath was short and he thought he might pass out, Eddie kissed his best friend.
Are you a camp fire? Because you’re hot & I want s’more.
Pairing(s): Aleks/James (NovaHD) and… well, you’ll just have to find out.
Words: 4,998
AO3
Summary: Summer rolls around once more and really, there’s a tradition to uphold and the tents & camp fire are calling their name. Except Dan and Jordan are going to have their hands full keeping James & Aleks apart for a different reason. (Part of the ‘Is that a flicker in your eyes?’ universe.)
One Two Three Four Five Six Seven Eight Nine TenEleven Twelve Thirteen Fourteen Fifteen Sixteen
A/N: You’re welcome for a beast of a chapter. Also, can anyone guess the joke that had me laughing so hard I cried? :P
Morning filtered through James’ eyelids slowly and then all at once, blinding him as Eddie ripped open the door of their tent. The zip was too loud in the quiet of the early hours. James gurgled some phlegm and threw his arm over his face. Eddie hopped out but left the door flapping. James pushed himself up on his elbow. He glared out at the sunshine and watched his brother get smaller and smaller. He could see his father already hunched around a small campfire. Dan passed what looked like a thermos to Eddie and James couldn’t stop his tongue as it darted out and licked his lips. He reached for his phone, holding the button down to try and wake it up. He huffed when it flashed the red battery at him. He knew that somewhere, among the mess of sleeping bags and pillows, there was a portable charger he’d stolen from Aleks before the trip. When he didn’t find it within seconds of reaching out, James gave up. His shoulders slumped and he looked again to the outside of the tent.
It took him almost five minutes to force himself up and out of the tent to join his brother. James looked desperately at his father, hand outstretched and awaiting sweet coffee. Dan rolled his eyes and handed James his own thermos. He’d have to make more coffee soon, if the rustling from the other tent was any indication. James’ lips hesitated over the mouth of his drink. His eyes narrowed at Eddie whose head was tipped back, throat throbbing as he drank.
“You didn’t give him coffee, did you?” James asked his father. He blew into his drink.
“Oh, hell no. He’s got hot chocolate,” Dan said. Eddie pulled his thermos from his mouth with a string of spit. He saw his family staring and turned to face them, grinning as he broke the spit.
“I hate him,” James said as he tentatively took a sip from his own drink.
“Sure, that’s why you made sure he was home safe last night.” Dan began to make more coffee. James sighed.
Inside their own tent, Seamus was battling with the roof as he tried to change his clothes. He’d asked Aleks to close his eyes and his brother had pressed his face into the floor of their tent. Seamus could see his nose twitching as he tried to breathe.
“You know you could just close your eyes, right?” Seamus’ voice was muffled by his t-shirt as he pulled it over his head. Aleks murmured something to the floor but Seamus honestly couldn’t make it out. He started to tap on the ground while Seamus shuffled beside him. Seamus swiped Aleks’ deodorant and quickly sprayed under his pits. He placed it back, eyeing his brother as he tried to get it into the right position. He was sure that Aleks must know, by now, he’d been using it all week but Seamus liked to think himself sneaky. “All right, I’m ready.” As Aleks pushed himself up he gasped like he’d been held underwater for far too long. Seamus rolled his eyes at him, folding his arms over his chest.
“Why’d you make me do that, anyway? It’s not like I haven’t seen you shirtless before.” Aleks said. “Because,” Seamus said as though that alone answered his brother’s question, “I’m a man now.” Seamus frowned when Aleks burst into laughter, holding his stomach as he doubled over. Seamus hit his brother over the head, smirking at the satisfying thud it made. He tried again but Aleks had ducked away, wiping non-existent tears from his cheeks.
“What? You get like, three armpit hairs and you’re a man now?” Aleks laughed.
“You’re right, maybe one day I’ll grow an amazing beard like yours.” Seamus bent down and plucked the one hair that had stood proudly on Aleks’ chin. Aleks’ gasped as Seamus flicked it from his fingers. Aleks glared up at his younger brother, eyes diving towards his chin. He huffed through his nose. He tried to think of something to say back to his brother but he couldn’t come up with anything good.
Instead he reached for the suitcase he and Seamus had kept from James and Eddie, waiting until Seamus kicked it towards him. Aleks had slept in the clothes they’d worn the night before and they were all wrinkled. He rummaged through Eddie’s too small t-shirts, Seamus’ abundance of socks and James’ worn out boxers to find his own clothes. Aleks settled on a pair of ripped jeans, one of his many ‘cat in space on pizza’ t-shirts James hated and a well-loved beanie. Seamus saw his t-shirt and snorted, muttering an insult under his breath. Aleks paid him no mind, glancing up at his brother.
“Quick, cover your eyes – you might see my chest hair!” Aleks started to tug on the edge of his t-shirt. Seamus pushed his way past Aleks, grabbing the door zip with more force than necessary and ripping it upwards so that he could escape his brother’s obnoxious behaviour. He yanked it down as he left, muffling Aleks’ laughing.
Eddie skipped towards Seamus once he’d noticed him walking over. He jumped once he was close enough, strangling Seamus with his arms as he attempted to cling onto him with his legs. Seamus had the good sense to push his arms outwards as Eddie pulled them both down towards the ground. He shot Eddie a look when he heard him grunt in pain but before Seamus could blink the boy beneath him was smiling again. Eddie released Seamus neck and reached upwards to press his finger into Seamus’ nose.
“Boop,” Eddie said before he started to wriggle and try to escape from underneath his friend. Seamus didn’t put up much of a fight, wrinkling his nose as he felt Eddie’s phantom touch. He looked up as Eddie stood and brushed the dirt from his knees. Seamus watched as James winked at his brother. If Eddie had been facing him, Seamus would have seen the blush that graced his cheeks.
Eddie made sure that he couldn’t by running towards James and attempting to tackle him instead. He merely crashed into his brother’s chest. James easily threw him aside. Eddie stumbled, breathing heavily as he fought to stay upright. He looked back at Seamus then, grinning again. Now Eddie was confident that if Seamus asked why his cheeks were so red he could blame it on running. Seamus smiled back at him. He got up and frowned down at the mess Eddie had made of his clothes. He licked his thumb and started to wipe it away. All he seemed to do was smear it but Seamus knew he didn’t have anything else to wear today. He blew out a breath, knowing only one thing could make him feel better.
“Hey Uncle Dan,” Seamus said, “what’s for breakfast?” Seamus rubbed his hands together. He knew, even before Dan spoke, that he wouldn’t like the answer. Dan rubbed the back of his head, shrugging just slightly.
“Well, I was thinking we’d get some while we were out,” Dan said.
It was like Nintendo had just announced they’d never make another Pokemon game, like Cartoon Network had decided to call it quits, like Eddie had said he would never speak to Seamus again. It was like… well, it was like Dan had said that they weren’t eating breakfast that morning. Seamus’ stomach growled its protests. His lower lip popped out of its own accord, wobbling dramatically as Seamus sucked in a whimper. His eyes widened as they watered. Big, fat tears perched upon the waterline of his eyes as Seamus thought of how long he’d have to wait to have food in his stomach. Where would they even eat? What could possibly compare to Dan’s fry-ups? Seamus wanted – no, Seamus needed – Dan’s greasy, great grub.
“I mean, maybe I could quickly make you an egg roll or something?” Dan offered. Seamus nodded immediately. His stomach finally quietened. Balance had been restored.
Dan rummaged through their cooking things to find the pain, eyeing the fire as it started to die. He’d started it when he’d woke to keep warm. He’d have to feed it to be able to cook. He jumped as Jordan snuck up behind him. The other man used his height to loom over Dan’s shoulder.
“Why’re you grabbing that? I thought we were eating out,” Jordan said.
“Moose wants to eat now and, he did – he did the thing and y’know how it is,” Dan said. Jordan smiled as he caught the nickname. It was only a reminder of how often Aleks had spent with James over the past year. Still, Jordan frowned as Dan walked over to the fire.
“You shouldn’t indulge him.” Jordan followed his friend. He didn’t take the pan, instead handing Dan the eggs when he gestured towards them. Dan only shrugged, cracking an egg and watching it plop into the pan.
Jordan looked up as his sons’ tent unzipped for the second time that morning. Aleks poked his head out first, yanking his head to the side when the teeth of the zip tugged on his beanie. He stepped out and was immediately greeted by James. He scrunched his face up as James kissed his cheek, wincing when his boyfriend cupped his bandaged hand. Jordan squinted at them both then.
“What’d you do?” Jordan marched towards the two teenagers. Aleks’ eyes widened. He looked to James for help, hoping he’d come up with a story that would be Dad-approved.
“Did you know how much of a sore loser your son is?” James said. Jordan looked at James with a face that mimicked a baby trying a lemon for the first time.
“What has that got to do with anything?” Jordan grabbed his son’s wrist, forcing his arm upwards so that he could examine the bandage. He could see faint spots of red beneath it.
“He tried to steal a plushie from one of those grab machines,” James said. Jordan dropped Aleks’ hand and studied his son’s face. Aleks was looking at the ground. Jordan looked to James as the boy smiled unconvincingly at him. Jordan sighed.
“Whatever,” he said.
Jordan let the two boys pass him. He stared into his son’s tent, glancing around and trying to see if anything was amiss. The only thing out of place was the boys’ case, left wide open with all of the clothes thrown about. Jordan knelt down, ready to climb in and clean up. He yelped when Eddie pushed past him, barely managing to stay on his knees. The boy grinned at him as he zipped up the tent. Jordan pressed his face into his hand as he heard Eddie start to rip the case apart. Jordan knew that once Eddie was done his brother would throw around whatever was left. Jordan took a deep breath. They’d definitely be leaving later than anticipated then. Jordan simply couldn’t leave the mess inside his son’s tent. His fingers twitch as the walls of the tents bounced, Eddie chucking clothes around it. Jordan wanted to climb inside, chuck Eddie out with a bundle of clothes and start cleaning now.
It was Dan who kept him from tumbling inside. He pressed a gentle hand to Jordan’s shoulder, smiling down at his friend as he watched his eye twitch.
“C’mon, let’s wash this pan,” Dan said. He felt Jordan’s shoulders slump in relief. Jordan nodded and got up, following his friend over to where he’d cooked. Seamus was sitting on one of their foldable stools. He was halfway through his roll. Jordan noticed how he kept nibbling at the edges, licking the yolk that dripped out of the side. Jordan shook his head at the son. He was almost glad Dan had made Seamus a roll so early. It meant his wallet wouldn’t take such a hit at the diner. Jordan knew that there was no way Seamus could eat the egg roll and have another breakfast within the hour. He may think like a hobbit, constantly wondering about his next meal, but Jordan’s son certainly didn’t have the stomach of one.
Aleks was standing beside his brother. He was staring at him intently. James was trying to catch his attention, waving his thermos of coffee under his boyfriend’s face. Aleks batted it away and almost lost it all. He flinched as the quickly cooling liquid splashed in his direction but his eyes never wavered. James settled for stepping in Aleks’ line of sight. Aleks tried to duck around him but James cupped his chin. His thumb pressed into one cheek while his fingers pressed into the other, forcing Aleks’ lips outwards. James ignored the glare Aleks was giving him and kissed his lips. To tease Aleks further, James pressed their noses together in an eskimo kiss. Aleks pushed him away. He caught James before he could fall on Seamus, though. He turned when James tried to kiss him again, sighing heavily as James peppered his cheek with kisses instead.
“Right,” Dan said as he watched Eddie leave the tent, “James, go and get dressed and then we’ll leave.”
“What? I am dressed.” James gestured to his wrinkled clothes. Dan shot him his best ‘I’m your father, do as I say’ look and that did the trick. James handed his thermos to an unwilling Aleks, forcing it into his fingers before he hopped away. Aleks tore his gaze from Seamus long enough to take a sip from the coffee. He winced as it went down. He shook the thermos to see what was left. The mug barely sloshed. Aleks held it out for Dan to take. Dan nodded his thanks as he swiped it, walking away to hand it to Jordan. James got dressed faster than anyone, so fast that Dan couldn’t be sure he hadn’t just thrown a hoody over what he’d been wearing. James stalked towards Aleks, frowning when he saw the lack of thermos.
“I was still drinking that,” James said. Aleks stepped into his space, resting his head on James’ shoulder and watching Seamus lick his fingers as he finished his roll off.
Dan clapped his hands together, surveying the camp site. Aleks’ eyes had closed as he tried to fall asleep on James’ shoulder. Seamus was sat, content, on his stool while Eddie ran circles around him babbling about some game Dan didn’t know. James had closed the tent, thankfully, and there really wasn’t anything else to clean up. Jordan started towards the tent but Dan stopped him, shaking his head and gesturing towards the car.
“But the mess,” Jordan said. Dan pat his shoulder and pulled. Jordan breathed heavily through his nose but followed. He knew that Dan was right, that they had to leave now or they never would. It didn’t make climbing into the car knowing the horrific mess they’d left behind any easier. Eddie followed them both with no hesitation. He glanced behind him as Seamus folded his chair and tucked it away. James led Aleks to the car, shuffling very slowly as Aleks refused to move.
It took them at least ten minutes to get everyone in. Aleks slouched in the very back, head lulling against the window. James had his arm over his shoulder but was staring out of his own window. Eddie had already had his DS out while Seamus was trying to find his. Jordan sat tense in his seat, wringing his hands together while he waited for Dan to start the car.
“Everybody ready?” Dan asked the group. He got several muttered replies, muffled by Eddie’s excited shout. He just missed Jordan’s whispered no but Dan didn’t wait for him to repeat. He started the car and with one last look at their camp, Dan pulled away.
To Jordan it felt like forever until they were turning into that familiar diner. He pressed his face against the window as Dan parked the car.
“How does it still look so old?” James smacked his hands against his cheeks.
“It didn’t change for years, what makes you think they’d change it now?” Dan said. He opened his door, stepping out and inhaling the fresh air. He loved his family and friends, honestly, but being stuck in a car with four teenagers – especially one who’d just ate egg – was the worst. Eddie hopped out of the car after his Dad, covering his eyes from the morning sun as he looked at the diner. Aleks came after him, shoving Seamus aside so that he could escape the stuffy car. He wheezed over dramatically as Seamus laughed behind him.
“You’re never,” Aleks pointed at Seamus’ face, “ever allowed to eat egg again,” Aleks said.
“I second that.” James pat Aleks’ back as he appeared behind him.
Once Aleks was breathing normally they all entered the diner. Seamus and Eddie immediately found the space they’d sat last year, nudging each other as they tried to get the best seat. Eddie won, clapping his hands as he stared out of the window he’d managed to sit next to. Aleks didn’t quite get the hype, all they could see was the near-empty car park and a dusty road. He let James slide in before him and then sat down. He was sat across from Seamus. Dan slid in next to him while Jordan hovered over the table. His hand sat in his jean pocket, fingers twitching around the wallet.
“Right, what does everybody want?” Jordan asked. He flinched as everyone placed their orders at once. He barely heard Aleks’ request for a breakfast muffin underneath Eddie and Seamus’ resounding shouts begging for a large breakfast. “Seamus, you don’t need anything else to eat, you’ve already eaten,” Jordan said. He nodded as Dan asked for a cheese toastie and James asked for just a regular sized breakfast.
Jordan tried to avoid Seamus’ eyes as he ran through the list in his head: breakfast muffin, regular breakfast, toastie, a large breakfast, another regular breakfast for himself.
“Is there anything else I can get you?” Jordan hoped Seamus would cave, tell him to grab some toast and some drink. Instead Seamus did the thing, the damn puppy thing. “Fine, but if you don’t eat it all I’m not giving you any money for the town.” Jordan turned on his heel and strode towards the bar.
“He didn’t ask us what we wanted to drink,” James said with a frown.
“We’re probably all getting water.” Aleks shook his head.
“I didn’t want water,” Seamus complained.
Jordan did indeed return with waters for everybody. Seamus muttered when he realised that his father hadn’t even splashed for bottled water. They were all drinking tap. He got over it very quickly once he’d seen the size of his plate. It was twice the size of his head and once placed the edges of it knocked Eddie’s own food. Eddie’s plate was wedged against the wall. He tried to turn it for a better fit but as his plate knocked James’ he caught his brother’s glare and thought better of it. Dan rubbed his hands together as Jordan placed his toastie in front of him. Then, after putting his own food down, Jordan finally sat.
“Bone apple tea,” Aleks said. James hit his left arm, scowling at his boyfriend.
“Dude, it’s bon appetite.” James pinched a bit of Aleks’ muffin as punishment for being an idiot.
“I know,” Aleks said. He swiped a bit of James’ bacon in retaliation. James tried to take it back but Aleks already had it in his mouth and well, it was all over then.
Eddie sat across from them, eyeballing the exchange as Seamus began devouring his meal beside him. He looked down at Seamus’ plate. Eddie chewed upon his lip, staring intently at Seamus’ own bacon. It the blond a moment but eventually he noticed. Eddie sighed as Seamus shielded his plate with his arm and nudged Eddie’s shoulder.
“Aren’t you going to eat your own food?” Seamus asked. Eddie coughed and picked up his knife and fork. He stabbed at his bacon, ripping it apart with his knife. He shoved it into his mouth. Eddie could feel James’ eyes on him. He kept his own gaze to his plate. Why did James and Aleks make it look so easy? Eddie had always been bold and rash but with Seamus simply blurting it out didn’t feel right. Eddie just had to find the right moment… if there’d ever be one. He severed his egg yolk in one quick motion, letting it spill out onto his plate.
After a while, everyone had devoured their breakfast. Well, everyone bar one. Seamus slumped in his chair, right hand barely holding his fork. He’d done quite well, making an attempt to eat at least one of everything on his plate. The only thing keeping him from his allowance was that one damn sausage and a hash brown that had turned to mush on his plate. Seamus had tried, and failed, to scoop the potato pile up onto a fork several times but now he’d simply given up. Jordan stood with a smug smirk, placing his hands on his hips.
“Right, I’m off to the toilet. Anyone else need to go before we leave?” Jordan looked at each and every one at the table. Nobody replied. “Well, all right then.” Jordan turned on his heel and headed towards the toilets.
Aleks watched his father until the door had swung shut on his back. He waited for a few seconds and then, when he was sure Jordan wouldn’t suddenly come out again, leaned heavily over the table. He snatched Seamus’ sausage, cramming it into his mouth. He used his finger to push it into his cheeks. He kept chewing as he took his brother’s knife and piled as much of the hash brown mess onto his fork. Aleks took the time to swallow what was left of the sausage before shovelling that into his mouth too. He reclined back in his chair, wiping some potato from his mouth with his thumb. Seamus looked down at his now empty plate then back at his brother. Aleks winked at him before swallowing. Seamus moved his knife and fork together on his plate.
Jordan returned barely a minute after. He opened his mouth to declare his parental victory over his son before he realised the plate was empty.
“Oh.” Jordan crouched down to look under the table. He regretted it immediately. Jordan snapped back up and shuddered. He’d have to wash his eyes out to forget the grime underneath. There was, surprisingly, no food. With the click of his tongue, Jordan reached into his jeans for his wallet.
“Fine,” he said, “don’t spent it all.” Jordan handed Seamus twenty dollars. The young boy’s eyes lit up as he took the money. Dan sat quietly. He knew that he should probably say something to Jordan, as his friend, but he couldn’t help but admire the brotherly support. He hoped it would inspire something within his own sons. They were jolting in their seats as they kicked one another under the table. Then again, Dan thought that would take a miracle.
From the diner, the children and the adults split up. Jordan and Dan dropped the boys off in the town before they left to visit their beloved thrift store, Jordan droning on and on about how he was looking out for some old figurines. The boys marched towards the heart of the town where they hoped the old joke shop still awaited them.
“Thanks.” Seamus lightly punched his brother’s arm. Aleks shrugged.
“For what? I was still hungry.” He grinned down at his younger brother. Seamus would have believed him if it wasn’t for the small smirk Aleks gave him afterwards. They walked together as Eddie and James argued up ahead over who won their fight of footsies. Seamus thought that Eddie had won and would have asked Aleks his opinion if he didn’t already know he’d choose James.
“Well, look at that. It’s still standing.” James looked up at the weather-worn shop front. The sign in the door claimed it was open though none of the boys would have ever guessed. The lights inside didn’t seem to be on and they could have sworn the window display hadn’t changed in a year. Eddie turned the door handle and pushed it wide open. The daylight filtered through and revealed all the little dust particles floating in the air. It near blinded the old man who sat at the counter. He covered his eyes with his hand and glared at the kids from behind it. His eyes widened when Seamus pushed his way through the door. James and Aleks followed their brothers inside. The door had barely closed behind them when the old man stepped out from behind his counter. The older boys were worried he was about to tell them to leave which would have been disappointing but understandable. Instead, he presented Seamus with a paper sick bag. Seamus took it begrudgingly and thanked the old man. Aleks tucked his face into James’ shoulder to hide his laughter from his younger brother.
Eddie grabbed Seamus’ hand as he caught sight of a scary clown mask. He dragged him towards the wall it hung on, pausing mere inches underneath it. Eddie craned his neck to look, jaw dropping open as he admired its creepy beauty. Seamus stepped behind him, squeezing his best friend’s hand. He looked at the ground instead, frowning when he saw a stain that looked eerily familiar.
“That’s so cool,” Eddie said. Seamus drew his attention to the small joke gifts instead.
“Look, it’s a Chinese finger trap.” Seamus had seen these before but he’d never tried one. Eddie was quick to shove his finger in, wriggling it around and poking Seamus’ cheek. Eddie let go of his hand only to grab the other and manoeuvre Seamus’ unwilling finger into the trap with him. When he’d succeeded, Eddie grabbed his hand again.
“Now we’re stuck together forever,” Eddie said. Well, Seamus could deal with that.
James and Aleks had wandered off on their own. James’ hand was tucked into Aleks’ jean pocket and he was teasing Aleks by pointing out all of the creepy things on the walls. They neared the back of the store and found a curtain blocking them from going further.
“Huh, didn’t see this before.” James reached for the edge of the curtain but Aleks slapped his hand away. Ready to chastise his boyfriend for being rude, James followed Aleks’ finger as he pointed to a sign that hung above the curtain. It told them that this was off limits for anybody under 18. James’ eyes lit up, already guessing what could be beyond the forbidden curtain. He pulled it aside and stepped through. His hand slipped from Aleks’ pants as he refused to move. Aleks crossed his arms over his chest and shook his head at James.
“What? You’ve never been scared of cock before.” James laughed at his boyfriend. Aleks reached in to swat him. James caught his wrist and pulled.
Aleks tumbled over the threshold into the forbidden area. He clung to James to keep himself upright. He squeezed his eyes shut and buried his face into James’ shoulder to shield his eyes.
“Seriously?” James murmured. He wrapped his arms around his boyfriend all the same and looked around. It was all pretty standard. The area was filled with fake books, fake dicks and everything one would need to make a hilarious bachelor or bachelorette party. Honestly, James was rather disappointed. He’d wanted to torment Aleks by waving porno DVDs in his face but there were none to be seen. He sighed heavily.
“Can we leave now?” Aleks pulled upon James’ hoodie in an effort to pull him towards the curtain.
“Fine, you big baby.” James led his boyfriend back out into the shop.
They collided with their younger brothers. James raised an eyebrow at them both as they lifted their fingers, still stuck in the Chinese finger trap.
“What’s in there?” Eddie peered around his older brother. James followed his movements and blocked his line of sight.
“Nothing special, you need help out of that?” James had to look around Aleks as he finally stood up.
“It says over 18s only, you’re not 18. You shouldn’t have been in there.” Eddie still kept trying to look around his brother. What could be in there? Eddie reckoned it was full of all the really cool video games his Dad wouldn’t let him play.
“Do you want help or not?” James pinched the younger boys’ fingers. Eddie winced in pain as James manipulated the Chinese finger trap until it released the two boys. He threw it onto the wrong shelf when he was done.
“Can we leave now?” Aleks frowned at the dusty shelves. He was sure he was breathing in way too many dead skin cells. James held onto Aleks’ elbow and started to guide him to the exit.
“Wait!” Eddie called, forcing everyone to turn around and look at him. “I want to get this.” He held up the Chinese finger trap. James rolled his eyes but nodded all the same. He tried to leave again but Eddie stopped him. “Can I borrow a dollar?” Eddie looked up coyly. James wanted to bark at him and tell his brother to put it back. There was no way in hell he was going to pay for some stupid gag.
“I’ll get it,” Seamus said before James had the chance to yell at his younger brother. “C’mon.” Seamus took Eddie’s hand and led him to the counter. Eddie whipped his head back around to James, panic clear in his eyes. James only shot him a thumbs up. Aleks frowned at them both but when he looked to James for answers, his boyfriend only shrugged.
Are you a camp fire? Because you’re hot & I want s’more.
Pairing(s): Aleks/James (NovaHD) and… well, you’ll just have to find out.
Words: 1,363
AO3
Summary: Summer rolls around once more and really, there’s a tradition to uphold and the tents & camp fire are calling their name. Except Dan and Jordan are going to have their hands full keeping James & Aleks apart for a different reason. (Part of the ‘Is that a flicker in your eyes?’ universe.)
One Two Three Four Five Six Seven Eight Nine Ten Eleven Twelve Thirteen Fourteen Fifteen
A/N: Now that my theme is (almost) fixed, I’ll be editing these posts so you can just click through. <3
Eddie was sat cross-legged when James joined him in the tent. He’d slipped inside his sleeping bag but seemed to be distracted by the zip. James stumbled in beside him. Eddie smirked as his brother’s foot caught on the lip of his sleeping bag. James muttered a curse under his breath. He tried to play it off by laying on his side, stretching out and leaning on his hand.
“James,” Eddie said.
“Eddie,” James said. Eddie chewed upon his lower lip, his fingers rubbing the zip of his bag.
“How did you know you loved Aleks?” Eddie stared intently at the zip. James pulled his lips to one side, scrunching his nose and staring intensely at the tent wall.
James thought back to when they were younger, when he swore that he hated Aleks. When they’d fight and come out bruised and almost broken. He remembered how they’d knock each other’s shoulders in the halls of their school and how James had made it his mission to make Aleks’ life hell. He could feel the ghost of the dread he’d felt when their father had so happily announced the last camping trip. James could remember the title of the book Aleks had been reading in the car and how much he’d hated watching Aleks’ look of concentration. He couldn’t pinpoint exactly the moment he knew he liked Aleks. Maybe it was when he’d seen Josh trying to take what James had subconsciously deemed his. It could’ve been when they’d kissed in the forest, sharing what James was sure was his last breath.
James thought about how after the trip everything had changed, when he knew he loved Aleks. When they’d kiss and end up red-faced and almost breathless. He thought about how he proudly swung his arm around Aleks’ shoulders in the hall and how he’d made it his mission to show everyone that Aleks was his. He could feel the tingle of excitement he’d first felt when he introduced Aleks to his friends – not as his enemy but as his boyfriend. James had memorised all the lyrics to the songs Aleks had written for his school band. He knew when he’d fallen in love with Aleks. It was during the week where James had run himself ragged over school and hadn’t seen Aleks in days. He was ready to rip his hair out when Aleks showed up, uninvited, with a tub of ice cream and four B-rated comedies on a USB stick. He’d shouldered himself past James, stormed up the stairs and ensured that James took a break. So they didn’t watch most of the movies and the ice cream had melted while they relieved James’ stress in other ways… but James got straight A’s that semester and Aleks became an A* boyfriend.
James hadn’t realised he’d gone silent until Eddie kicked him, now frowning over the edge of his sleeping bag. James gave a long, deep sigh and shrugged.
“He bought me ice cream,” James said. Eddie looked as clueless as a puppy in obedience school.
“Ice cream? That’s what made you fall in love?” Eddie scratched his head. He had been happy eating ice cream earlier that week, yes, but not enough to fall in love. No, there were better reasons.
“What’s this about? If I remember rightly, you think my relationship is gross,” James said. Eddie shrugged his shoulders. The zip became more interesting once again, flipping back and forth between Eddie’s fingers. “Is it Seamus?”
Eddie’s cheeks became two bright, red apples as his eyes bulged from his head. James couldn’t help but smirk as he watched his brother struggle to come up with an answer.
“Yeah,” Eddie hung his head, “I think I love him.” Eddie felt all gooey inside having said it out loud. He’d been thinking it for a while, ever since puberty dug its claws into him. The coo that slipped from James was beyond his control but Eddie butchered him with a glare anyway.
“What are you going to do about it?” James cocked his head to the side.
“What am I supposed to do about it?” Eddie dropped the zip, throwing his hands up into the air.
“You could kiss him,” James said.
It was as if he’d slapped Eddie, the boy’s jaw dropped to the ground. Eddie shook his head over and over until James was sure he’d puke from making himself dizzy.
“I can’t do that!” Eddie insisted. James might as well have told him to swear in church.
“You can, I’m sure your braces won’t get in the way that much,” James smirked.
“James, it’s scary.” Eddie whined. James rolled his eyes and pushed himself up a bit.
“It’s not scary, idiot. Just close your eyes and pucker up,” James said. Eddie shifted where he lay. It just wasn’t that easy, he thought. James shuffled over to his brother and forced his arm under his neck. He pulled him up and held him close in an awkward, unwanted hug.
“You can do it.” James nuzzled his brother’s head. Eddie elbowed James away from him, wriggling away until his brother was looming over him instead. He tugged his glasses off and chucked them to the side of the tent.
James reached out for Eddie before he dropped his hand. He wanted to say more and to fill his brother with confidence but he knew he’d said enough. Instead he rolled back onto his own sleeping bag and fished his phone from his pocket. He sent a brief text to his Dad to ensure he knew that they’d all got home safe and had got into the right tents. He raised his phone to take a picture of himself and Eddie for confirmation. He couldn’t quite get them both in the frame and he had to lean all the way over to even catch a hint of Eddie’s hair. He took the picture as it was, calling it good and sending it to his father. For a second James wished he’d had Aleks’ selfie stick and he mentally slapped himself for even thinking of it. James unzipped his bag and wriggled inside. He zipped it up and let his eyes fall closed.
In the other tent, Aleks’ fingers were knuckle deep inside Seamus’ hair. He’d crossed two strands over one another but had lost his mind when it came to the third one.
“How does Eddie do this?” Aleks shook his hands free and untangled Seamus’ hair. Seamus combed his own fingers through it before he quickly wove it into a simple three strand braid. Aleks just stared at him with his mouth hanging wide open. Seamus smirked at him, shrugging his shoulders and knocking the braid away from his chest.
“It’s easy once you practice,” Seamus said. Aleks frowned. He felt almost bad and he swore to himself that he’d try to learn how to do at least one braid while his brother still had his long hair. The tent fell quiet. Aleks shuffled where he sat. Seamus looked anywhere but his brother.
“Do you want to talk about what happened or…” Aleks tried to catch his brother’s eye.
“No, it’s fine.” Seamus snapped. Aleks’ mouth stretched into a long, thin line but he didn’t push the subject. He still felt the adrenaline pumping through him from the fight. He was sure that Seamus was still shaking though whether it was from the chill of the evening or the fight Aleks didn’t know.
“Do you want to play a game or something then?” Aleks kicked his brother. Seamus kicked him back, grinning only slightly as Aleks retaliated yet again.
“I’ll beat you at karaoke,” Seamus said. Aleks scoffed.
“I’ve heard you sing, you’re not beating anybody at karaoke.” Aleks let out a strangled, choking noise and held an imaginary microphone in his hand. Seamus kicked him extra hard for good measure.
“It’s not about the voice, it’s about who can fill all the bars.” Seamus lifted a brow, smirking cockily at his brother. He freed his phone from his pocket and waved it high in the air.
“You’re on, Moose.” Aleks’ fingers swiped across the screen to find the app.
Are you a campfire? Because you’re hot & I want s’more.
Pairing(s): Aleks/James (NovaHD) and… well, you’ll just have to find out.
Words: 2,944
AO3
Summary: Summer rolls around once more and really, there’s a tradition to uphold and the tents & camp fire are calling their name. Except Dan and Jordan are going to have their hands full keeping James & Aleks apart for a different reason. (Part of the ‘Is that a flicker in your eyes?’ universe.)
One Two Three Four Five Six Seven Eight Nine Ten Eleven Twelve Thirteen Fourteen
A/N: If you want to be able to click through each chapter, considering tumblr hates me, please go to AO3 or the tag novahd / crtcampingau on my blog <3
“Oh my god, you’re so gross.” Eddie hopped over their suitcase, tripping on one of his own shirts. James looked up at his brother through half-closed eyes, rubbing the marks Aleks’ beanie had left on his cheek. He scowled as his brother jumped around them. James reached out to swat at Eddie’s arm, unaware that Seamus had snatched his brother’s phone and snapped a picture of them both.
“Have you two been sleeping this whole time?” Seamus threw the phone back to Aleks.
“Not the whole time,” Aleks said. He cradled his phone to his chest and leaned back against James. Seamus collapsed onto the ground in front of them, crossing his legs together and resting his elbows upon his knees. Eddie ran past him, ruffling his hair and laughing when Seamus leaned away from him.
Dan opened the trunk of the car, lugging out one of the many disposable barbeques he’d thought to pack for the trip. Jordan hovered behind him, licking his lips and reaching for the bulk pack of buns nestled beside the bags of snacks.
“Hot dogs?” Jordan waved the buns in front of Dan’s face. Dan sidestepped the onslaught of plastic wrapping and bread to drag the barbeque towards the campfire.
“I was thinking of something a little less filling, considering we’ve had ice cream already,” Dan said. He turned as James gasped, extending his hand and pointing accusingly at his father.
“You had ice cream without us?” James scowled as Dan shrugged, smirking slightly as his son puffed out a big, angry breath of air.
“You could have come and played mini-golf, if you’d have wanted to,” Dan said. James shook his head slightly, glancing down at Aleks as he shuffled to get more comfortable.
“You ate my chocolate!” Eddie burst out of his tent, waving an almost empty bag of candy. James shrugged, inspecting his nails as Eddie marched towards him. “What do you have to say for yourself?” Eddie tapped the bag insistently. Aleks reached for it, fingers closing around the corner before Eddie swiped it. The younger boy scowled down at him. He tucked the bag underneath his armpit, wagging his finger in both his brother’s and Aleks’ face. Aleks let his hand fall onto his knee. He watched as Seamus crawled away from the group only to sneak up on his best friend. Eddie turned as the bag was pulled from his grip and he pouted dramatically when Seamus opened the bag. Seamus stole a funsize milkyway and handed the bag back.
“Why didn’t you yell at him?” James beckoned Eddie forward, itching to sink his teeth into more forbidden chocolate.
Eddie placed his hand on his hip, cocked his head to the side and raised a very judging eyebrow in his brother’s direction. James smirked at him, wriggling his own eyebrows and winking at Seamus. Eddie’s cheeks flushed with colour and he huffed, dropping the hand on his hip.
“Just, just stay out of my chocolate,” Eddie said. He stalked across their campground to his and James’ tent. James waved at him as he slipped beneath the door and scrambling in. Aleks reached out for Seamus, beckoning him forward with one hand. Seamus shuffled towards him. He pinched the remainder of his milkyway between two fingers. Aleks’ arm brushed Seamus’ wrist and he held it for a second, crumpling his face as though he’d forgotten what he meant to say. Then Seamus’ two fingers snapped together and the chocolate was gone, bulging against Aleks’ cheek. Seamus slapped him on the shoulder and left it at that, skipping away to find Eddie and his secret sweet stash.
oOo
“Do we have to go to the clubhouse?” Aleks ran his palm across his stomach. His fingers caressed the slight bulge that had appeared there after eating one too many servings of soup.
“If you don’t go, who’s going to look after the boys?” Dan slurped at his spoon. He slobbered all over it and Aleks shivered at the sound.
“Well, you. I mean, they’re your kids.” James looked at his father. Dan shrugged.
“Yeah, but we had you two so we didn’t have to look after the second lot,” Dan said. He grinned over his bowl of soup and James shook his head at him.
“They looked after themselves all right last time, didn’t they?” Aleks looked at his own dad.
“If you think I’m going to let you stay here alone, you’re insane. They’re there to keep an eye on you as much as you’re to keep an eye on them,” Jordan said.
“Dad, we’ll be fine. Aleks will probably never, ever, ever touch drink again,” Seamus said. Aleks nodded solemnly in the background. Jordan looked at Dan, praying that his best friend would take his side. Dan contemplated over another slurp of soup. He laughed when it dripped onto his chin.
“Let ‘em stay, they’re old enough and what could go wrong? Seamus and Eddie will only be at the clubhouse,” Dan said. The look he gave the younger boys told them that yes, they definitely would only be at the clubhouse tonight. It was a victory all the same and the two boys clapped their hands together in celebration. Jordan chewed upon his lower lip, gnawing grooves into his skin. He looked to Seamus who seemed to have grown so much throughout their conversation. Jordan had always seen him as his baby. Seamus had been born an angel faced cherub, blessed with golden curls, and to Jordan he’d always been that way. But now his curls had dropped from his cheeks, falling around his shoulders and his son’s sweet baby face had matured quite a bit since birth.
“I don’t like this,” Jordan said to Dan. His friend shrugged, finally lowering his now empty bowl of soup, “they’re too young.” Jordan wrung his hands together. Seamus rolled his eyes at his father.
“They’re old enough, Jordan.” Dan stood up. He held his bowl high above his head as he stretched. He reached out for the boys’ bowls, taking them from their hands. “I’m going to go and clean these and then we’ll head out, yeah?” Dan looked to Jordan. He was chewing his lip again. Dan had wandered across their small plot before Jordan nodded.
oOo
Seamus’ breath steamed up the glass as he pressed his nose up against it. Eddie’s fingertips brushed against his. Eddie’s tongue came so close to touching the glass as his eyes scanned the stacks of prizes hungrily. Eddie pointed to the top left corner.
“I want that plushie,” Eddie said. He licked his lips, “I only need two hundred more tickets.” Eddie had gathered quite a collection since they’d been at the campsite. Seamus couldn’t believe how he was so close to 3,000 already. Seamus only had 300 to his name.
“Look, a friendship bracelet kit!” Seamus nodded to the box to his right. Eddie’s face crumpled up.
“Eh, that’s lame.” Eddie pushed himself away from the glass, “c’mon – let’s get that plushie.” Seamus sighed. He gazed at the box once more. He only needed another 2,200.
Seamus followed Eddie over to one of their favourite games. He watched as Eddie held a dime. His tongue was caught between his lips as the wheel within the machine span. He let the dime loose and thrust his fist into the air as it sailed through the hole marked ’50.’ The machine began to spit the paper tickets out. Seamus watched as they pooled at his feet.
“Want a turn?” Eddie held a dime out to Seamus. Eddie snatched his tickets up so that theirs wouldn’t get mixed up. Seamus held the dime by the slot and watched the wheel. There were so many options from 5 to 100 tickets. Seamus pushed the coin through. It clunked into the hole marked ‘5.’ He rolled his eyes as the machine spat his tickets out in a second.
“I suck at this,” Seamus said. He pulled the tickets away.
“Nah, the machine just sucks.” Eddie grabbed Seamus’ hand, “let’s try another one.”
Seamus watched their hands as Eddie led him through the crowds of children. They weaved around people with armfuls of tickets and Seamus felt pity for the kids who kept losing all of the games. They reached a game with smattered in the pacman logo. Eddie placed his tickets down but never dropped Seamus’ hand. He reached up to push his next dime through one of four holes at the top. Together they watched the dime go plink, plink, plink all the way to the bottom. Eddie’s dime gained him another 50 tickets. When Seamus tried, he managed only 25.
“I think you should just do it for me,” Seamus said. Eddie shrugged.
“If you want me to.” He tugged on Seamus’ hand again, his eyes set on a machine Seamus would probably be bad at.
When Eddie gathered the last few tickets to reach 3,000, he let out a loud whoop. Seamus shied away from him as everyone stared. He broke their handhold and looked down at his own measly group of tickets. He’d only gathered another 70.
“Do you want to go and get your plushie now?” Seamus nudged his friend’s shoulder when the heat of the stranger’s stares had gone.
“Don’t you want your bracelet thing?” Eddie glanced down at the small pile in Seamus’ hands.
“I can’t get it, probably won’t get enough all week.” Seamus shrugged. Eddie frowned. He took Seamus’ hand again and led him towards the prize cabinet.
Eddie looked at his plushie, chewing on his lip as he looked to the desk he could redeem it from. He glanced out of the side of his eye at Seamus. Seamus was looking at the bottom of the cabinet where they could find erasers and pencils. Sometimes he’d look upwards though and Eddie couldn’t stand the sad little glint in his eye. Eddie let go of Seamus again. He counted out his tickets. In one hand he held 2,130 and in the other he held the other 870. Seamus watched him.
“Here,” Eddie shoved the tickets into his friend’s hand. Seamus frowned.
“This isn’t enough for the plushie. You need it all, remember?” Seamus tried to give it back.
“I’ll get more. Let’s get the bracelet thing… it looks fun.” Eddie pushed Seamus’ hand away.
“You said it was lame.” Seamus looked down at the tickets in his hand. Eddie squished him in his arms. He bumped their heads together and Seamus could see his stupid, goofy smile out the corner of his eye.
Eddie pushed him towards the desk like that. The woman behind the window looked at them strangely as they handed over their tickets. She placed the box on the counter before them. Seamus pushed Eddie off of him so that he could take it. He beamed down at the tacky box that had probably bought from a dollar store. Seamus was excited about it all the same.
“We can make these tonight!” Seamus said to Eddie. He looked up to see Eddie watching him. Seamus didn’t recognise the look in his eye. It didn’t look like he was going to tease him though.
“I could probably braid some of the string in your hair.” Eddie fiddled with the end of Seamus’ curls. Seamus shook him off.
“And then we could put on makeup, wear some heels and try on our dresses!” Seamus and Eddie turned to see Josh behind them. His lackeys snickered as he mocked the two boys.
“Shut up,” Eddie said. Josh rolled his eyes at them.
“Shut up? Really, that’s all you can manage?” Josh snatched the box out of Seamus’ hands. “What even is this? Friendship bracelets? I thought Aleks had a little brother, not a sister.”
“Are you blind? I’m clearly a boy.” Seamus reached for the box but Josh snatched it back.
“I couldn’t tell. You’ve got hair like a girl.” One of Josh’s friends reached out and yanked on a loose curl. Seamus stepped back but it only pulled it more.
“Leave him alone!” Eddie hit the other boy’s hand away. He stood in front of Seamus with the meanest scowl he could manage.
“What are you going to do? Beat us all up? You weigh like two pounds.” Josh pushed at Eddie’s shoulder to prove his point. The younger boy stumbled and almost sent Seamus careening into the desk behind him. Eddie glanced back to the person working the desk for help but she’d gone on her break or something as the desk was now closed.
“Why are you being so mean?” Seamus peered over Eddie’s shoulder. Josh shrugged.
“I’m bored,” He said. He pushed at Eddie again. Seamus clawed the desk behind them. Everyone else in the arcade was ignoring them. “Hey, Dan, do you still have your penknife?” Dan answered by slipping the knife from his pocket. “I think this moose needs a haircut.”
Dan pushed past Dan and leered over the two boys. He held the knife in the air. Seamus squeezed his eyes shut. He gathered his hair into his fits and held onto them. Eddie thrust his chest up an out and he stared the guy straight in the eyes. He frowned when a hand reached up and grabbed the knife at the sharp end. The mystery hand cried out when Dan dropped the knife. Aleks shoved his way past his brother’s attacker and stood in front of Eddie. He cradled his bloodied hand against his chest and growled, actually growled, at Dan.
“Oh Aleks, thanks for finally joining us. How was your walk ho-“ Josh went sprawling into his friends as James’ fist connected to his face. James stood with a big grin over the bully.
“Man, that felt good,” James said. Josh whimpered as he was helped up. Dan bent down for the knife but Aleks kicked it underneath one of the arcade machines.
“Now get lost or I’ll give you all a kiss with my fists.” James held them up for all to see. James snatched the box of friendship bracelets back. He handed it to Seamus. Josh looked as though he wanted to say something more but his friends pulled him away. The boys could feel eyes watching them and as James looked around he could see the security guard glaring at them all.
“We should probably get out of here,” Aleks said. James nodded. He looked at his boyfriend’s hand and rolled his eyes. Aleks thought all the blood was worth it when James took off his shirt. He wrapped it around Aleks’ hand and pressed a kiss to his forehead.
“Come on, let’s go back to the tent.” James reached behind Aleks and wrapped an arm around Eddie’s shoulders. Eddie let his brother pull him forward and towards the door.
“What about Dad? Isn’t he going to be mad we left?” Seamus started to follow Aleks.
“I’ll text them, don’t worry. They’ll be okay if we’re together,” James said.
Aleks linked his arm with his younger brother as they stepped outside.
“That was stupid,” Seamus nodded towards Aleks’ hand. Aleks smirked down at it.
“Yeah,” Aleks said. Seamus let his head fall onto his big brother’s shoulder. They fell behind Eddie and James as they slowed their pace.
“Thanks,” Seamus said. Aleks pressed a kiss to his forehead. Seamus had to resist the urge to recoil and make a childish comment, as all younger brothers must do. Instead he let his brother guide him back to their tent. His heart was still racing and Seamus was sure that he’d have nightmares about Josh cutting his hair for weeks to come.
At some point Eddie and James had disappeared from their view. They met them back at the campsite. James was waiting with some bandages. Unfortunately for Aleks, he’d redressed since returning to the campsite. Seamus could see Eddie’s shadow in the tent.
“Do you want to go sit with Eddie while my nurse bandages me up?” Aleks nodded to Eddie’s shadow. Seamus glanced in that direction, his thumbs caressing the box in his hand.
“Can’t I stay with you tonight?” Seamus asked.
“I mean you smell… but I guess.” Aleks smile down at his little brother. Seamus rolled his eyes at him. He nodded to James before he headed towards his and Aleks’ tent. Both boys made a face at the state of his hand. James held onto Aleks’ wrist as he wiped the blood away. He hadn’t thought to get any disinfectant but Aleks was glad for that. His hand already stung enough. When all the blood had been wiped away the cut didn’t look too deep, thankfully. James started to wrap the bandages around his boyfriend’s hand.
“You’re such an idiot,” James said. He tied the bandage on the back of Aleks’ hand.
“They were going to give Moose a haircut. I couldn’t let that happen, could I? It’d traumatise him.” Aleks shrugged. James smiled at him. He couldn’t resist pressing a kiss to his boyfriend’s cheek.
“You’re a good big brother, you know that?” James whispered against Aleks’ skin.
“So are you. Though you should have given Josh more than a fist sandwich. I wish you’d knocked him out.” Aleks pressed their foreheads together.
“Next time I’ll make sure he doesn’t get up for a while.” James promised.
“Good.” Aleks pulled away from his boyfriend, “now go look after your little brother.” James nodded. Aleks headed towards his tent before he paused, “and tell him I said thanks, yeah?”
“I will,” James said. Aleks smiled at him as he watched his boyfriend crawl into his tent.
Are you a campfire? Because you’re hot & I want s’more.
Pairing(s): Aleks/James (NovaHD) and… well, you’ll just have to find out.
Words: 1,660
AO3
Summary: Summer rolls around once more and really, there’s a tradition to uphold and the tents & camp fire are calling their name. Except Dan and Jordan are going to have their hands full keeping James & Aleks apart for a different reason. (Part of the ‘Is that a flicker in your eyes?’ universe.)
One Two Three Four Five Six Seven Eight Nine Ten Eleven
A/N: If you want to be able to click through each chapter, considering tumblr hates me, please go to AO3 or the tag novahd / crtcampingau on my blog <3
The mountains rolled by the car. They came and went, each peak more foreboding than the last. Seamus’ eyes followed their jagged edges. Some were flecked with white while the shorter ones were a cold, dark grey. The light hit the glass just so and suddenly Seamus could see himself. He pulled his solo braid across his shoulder. His fingers dug into the woven hair.
“Are we going to stop for breakfast?” Aleks’ head thumped against the seat. His shoulders were almost touching the bottom of his chair. His legs were pooled in the small space between Eddie’s seat and his own. Seamus turned away from the window to look at him. He’d covered his eyes with Seamus’ sunglasses and the sides dug into his face. “I want food.” Aleks dug his chin into his chest. Jordan turned around so that he was facing the back.
“Aleks, we had food back at the campsite. If you’d been up in time, you would have had some too.” Jordan said. He clicked his tongue when Aleks groaned.
Seamus nudged Eddie’s shoulder. The boy turned and Seamus nodded towards their father’s cup holders. Eddie nodded and leaned forward. He pinched a water bottle from cup holders. Jordan’s eyes flicked briefly to the spot where it had been. He caught Seamus’ gaze in the mirror. They held the look before Jordan looked away, pointing out a tree Seamus didn’t care about to Dan.
“Here,” Seamus pushed the water into Aleks’ slack hand, “you need it.” Aleks’ fingers twitched around the bottle for a moment before he grabbed it. He squeezed the cap and twisted his hand. The cap didn’t move. Aleks tried again. When the cap stayed put, Aleks grunted. He thrust the bottle back at Seamus. Seamus’ shoulders shook as he took it back. He twisted the cap in one turn, handing it back to his brother. Seamus watched his brother’s throat as he guzzled down the water. When Aleks pulled the bottle away it was almost drained completely.
Seamus took it back and he sipped at what was left before he threw it into Eddie’s lap. Eddie pushed it off of his knee. He, Seamus and James watched it roll onto the floor. Aleks’ head lolled onto his own shoulder. He slid further down into his seat. Seamus shook his head at him and turned back to the window. More mountains passed and soon enough Seamus felt his eyes droop a little. He mimicked his brother’s movements and felt himself relax. His eyelids fluttered as he watched the mountains go by.
“There’s a McDonalds coming up, should we stop?” Dan tore his eyes from the road to look at Jordan.
“Yes.” Aleks slowly lifted his arm up. He waved it around once, letting it flop back to its original position. Jordan shook his head. Dan glanced back at Aleks though the rear view mirror. He chewed his lower lip. His fingers bumped his turn signal.
“Dan,” Jordan reached out to smack Dan’s arm. He fell towards the car door and scowled at the highway as it left him. “Dan.” The car continued down the road. Jordan could see the yellow M. The car turned into its parking lot. Aleks threw both of his arms up into the air, his hands hitting the top of the car. Dan cut the engine.
“We’ve got to get to canoeing.” Jordan said.
“The river will wait.”
oOo
The water kissed the rocks. “Shit, we’re going to die.” Seamus stepped behind Eddie. He gnawed at his own lip as his best friend beamed down at the water.
“Isn’t this so cool Seamus?” Eddie kneeled down and dipped his fingers into the river. He let the waves run through them and wriggled his digits around. Seamus grabbed his friend’s shoulder, pulling him back slightly. Eddie smiled as he stood, shaking his head at Seamus. He took the other boy’s hand and held it tightly. Seamus felt his heart flutter though he was unsure as to whether it was Eddie’s fault or the fact his Dad helped their instructor bring a canoe to the water.
“Is everyone ready?” The instructor was far too cheerful for Seamus’ liking. He wore only shorts, a polo shirt and his life vest. Seamus wanted to be wrapped head to toe in bubble wrap so that he’d be sure to float if he fell into the water. Like the lifeguard, all he’d been given was the stupid vest. Eddie wore his proudly while James was still trying to fasten Aleks into his.
“Dad,” Aleks said. James finally clipped the life vest around his boyfriend’s chest. Jordan looked up, smirking a little at Aleks, “please can I have my phone back? I want to take pictures.” Jordan looked at his son. He saw how pasty Aleks’ skin was and while he couldn’t see his eyes, he could tell that they were probably bloodshot. He pulled Aleks’ phone from his pocket, passing it over.
“Don’t drop it,” Jordan said. Aleks nodded as he tucked his phone into his jean’s pocket, adjacent to his trusty selfie stick.
Eddie was forced to drop Seamus’ hand when their fathers ordered them to get in a canoe with their brothers. Jordan argued that it was safer that way but Seamus didn’t feel safe with the way Aleks was still wobbling. James thankfully helped Aleks into the canoe before Seamus. He offered his arm once Aleks was seated and Seamus gladly took it. The boat wobbled as Seamus stepped in, clawing James’ arm before it steadied. He lowered himself into it. He forced a smile back at Eddie who was already seated and waving at him. Seamus’ father looked no happier about their activity, sitting behind Dan and holding tightly to the oars. James scurried off to his own boat. He took his seat behind Eddie, glancing back at Aleks and nodding to Seamus.
The lesson was quite tame and, after some time, Seamus could almost enjoy canoeing. He and Aleks even started to swim laps around their father and James’ and Eddie’s boat. The instructor cheered them on, leading their little line of canoes. When their boat started to turn and then didn’t stop turning, Seamus looked back. Aleks was bent in half over his oar, head hanging over the water as he spat a brief warning into the river below. Seamus called out just as Aleks let go, spewing into the water. The rest of the canoes came to a halt while Seamus abandoned his own oar. For a moment, his mouth filled with saliva and Seamus swore he was destined to the same fate as his brother. Then he swallowed it down, snatched Aleks’ selfie stick and swiped his phone. He connected the phone, flicked on the camera and stretched the stick just in time to snap a cheeky pic of himself with his brother puking in the background. Seamus shut the selfie stick as Jordan called out, yelling something about how inappropriate it was of Seamus. Aleks fell back into their canoe and Seamus handed back his phone and selfie stick.
Their little outing didn’t last too long after that. The instructor called an end to it all, despite Dan’s grumbling about how they’d paid for a couple of hours and not the hour they’d been given. Seamus managed to coax his brother into getting the boat moving again and somehow they made it back to the dock. James helped Seamus out first this time. Seamus was grateful that James offered him a sympathetic grimace before reaching for his boyfriend. Eddie came up to all three of them, beaming from ear to ear. He grabbed Seamus’ hand once more and bumped their shoulders.
“That was so cool, did the picture turn out good?” Eddie said.
“You’ll have to ask my brother.” Seamus turned to Aleks. His older brother was slumped against James’ shoulder, groaning as his boyfriend dragged him towards their fathers.
“See? Don’t you see how the stick is evil?” James said. Aleks shook his head.
“I bet it was a good shot,” Aleks said. He looked up at Seamus and nodded. Seamus returned the gesture with a thumbs up.
“I think we could all use some lunch,” Dan said. Jordan looked to his son, Aleks, who was adamantly shaking his head at the mere mention of food.
“I don’t think I could eat after watching that.” Jordan started to head towards the exit.
“Luckily for me, I didn’t see much of it and I’m starving – lunch, anyone?” Dan looked to his kids. James shrugged, Eddie clapped and despite having witnessed Aleks throwing up even Seamus looked quite eager. Dan turned to Jordan, a big smile upon his face, as his best friend paled.
oOo
“Well, what are we going to do with the rest of the day?” Jordan stirred the straw of his thickshake around his plastic cup. Well, it wasn’t really his – it had been Seamus’ but his youngest son was barely managing to keep down the overzealous lunch he’d insisted on ordering.
“I vote we go back to the tent,” Aleks said. He’d slumped upon the table and cradled his head in his arms, turning away from the window Dan made them sit by.
“That’s boring,” Eddie said. He turned to Seamus, hoping that he’d agree, only to find his best friend looking sympathetically at his brother. Even Jordan and Dan were staring at Aleks by now. They shared a look that Eddie didn’t understand.
“I mean, we could…” Dan scratched his head, “they do have mini-golf and those go-karts we could ride.” He looked to Jordan who was still staring at his oldest son. Dan had always been able to read Jordan’s face and while he tried to make himself look hardened and unimpressed at Aleks’ behaviour, the concern was evident.
“Yeah, sounds like a plan,” Jordan said without ever glancing away from Aleks.
