Chapter 1: Chapter 1
Chapter Text
"Ima, stop worrying. It’s five weeks then I'll be back."
"And what about Shabbat? Or Chanukah?"
David rolled his eyes. "Ima, we don't always observe Shabbat, don't use it as an excuse. I'll be back long before Chanukah. Also, I'm already here, I'm not coming back just because you don't like it and didn't tell me till I left."
His mother sighed over the phone. He couldn't help but soften. Her children hadn't been so far from her before.
"It'll be okay, Ima. I'll call often and you can text me anytime."
David couldn't help but exhale slowly when she finally assented.
“I do hope it is worth it. You and your band need this opportunity.”
"I know it's not exactly what you wanted from me-”
"David." He jumped at the strict tone. "All I have ever wanted for you and your siblings is your happiness. If singing and performing is how you find happiness, I will pray that it also brings you success."
His mouth went dry at the sentiment. "I love you, Ima," He mumbled in Hebrew.
"I love you too, my son. Text me when you arrive at the place you're staying."
"I will."
They said their goodbyes and when David looked up at the rest of the gang, they were all pretending to not have been listening.
"Alright, nosy people. What?"
Racetrack quirked a brow. "Mama Jacobs finally give you her blessing?"
When they had left the airport and piled into the cab, Esther had called, suddenly not a fan of David being so far from home. And while Santa Fe was the same country, it was far enough to warrant a different timezone to New York.
"Yup. Wants me to text when we get to your brother's place." That last sentence was directed at Spot who had been watching the whole scene with vague amusement. David twisted so he could see past Race, who sat between them, and looked at Spot directly. "So, can you finally explain the deal with your brother?"
Spot sighed. David could see he was itching for a smoke to get him through this conversation. But they were stuck in a cab so he'd have to do without.
“He's three years younger than me. Mama fostered him when he was thirteen. Loud, angry. It took time for him to realise that Medda Larkin would rather die than let a child suffer."
David had met Spot's mother. She was a wonderful person and exuded maternity.
“He was always obsessed with moving out west. He did it a week after he turned eighteen without telling us. But he seems to be doing well. Said the town hosts a "harvest festival" over four weeks so that nearby farmers and small businessmen can sell their crops and stuff.”
“Get to the gig,” Smalls urged, loudly chewing gum and turning from the front passenger seat to look at them.
Spot rolled his eyes. “They normally have a few musical acts over the course of the festival but their main one, that plays every night of the festival, cancelled last minute.
“So we're doing him a favour, coming here last minute to fill in that spot.”
“And it could finally be our chance to get noticed and become...famous!” Race sighed dreamily, leaning on Spot’s shoulder as he was overwhelmed with what were probably visions of his face on the front page of the paper.
Smalls snorted. “Or at least give us a few more Instagram followers.”
“We’d have more if you had let me name the band!”
“Race’s Reeses Pieces is not a good band name and it’s Davey’s band, not yours!”
Racer and Smalls began arguing with each other as to the degree of success this festival would bring their band. Davey leaned back to look at Spot.
“Will you be okay?”
Spot rolled his eyes. “It's just my little brother.”
“You guys fought the last time you spoke in person.”
Spot pursed his lips and they fell quiet, just listening to the other two bicker.
About ten minutes later, they arrived at the outskirts of a small town where a large blue truck was waiting for them.
Davey had never met Spot’s brother, despite having been best friends with Spot since they were eighteen. He’d heard descriptions (Spot called him irritating, their mother called him excitable). But both had failed to mention how he looked.
So when a strong young man sauntered up to them, an easy grin hidden under the brim of the cowboy-esque hat, Davey couldn’t believe it was Spot’s little brother.
“Spot! Took ya’ll long enough.”
“‘Ya’ll’?” Spot mocked.
Jack Kelly just winked at his brother before enveloping him in a hug.
“‘S been too long, Sean.”
Spot immediately returned the hug. “I know. I'm sorry.”
Jack pulled back with a laugh. “Ain’t nothin’ to apologise for.” Gesturing to the rest of the group, “Gonna introduce me?”
Spot sighed. “Bass, drums, vocals,” he told Jack, pointing at Smalls, Race and Davey, respectively.
“We are literally engaged,” Race protested.
Jack broke into an astounded grin. “You’re engaged!?”
Race furrowed his brow at Spot. “You didn’t tell him?”
Spot opened his mouth, then seemed to rethink before closing it again.
Race looked at him almost annoyed. “You said you told him.”
“When?”
“The day you called to work out the details of us coming here.”
Davey watched the argument begin to break out. If it was anyone else, he would’ve intervened. But last time he got between Spot and an argument, he left the conflict with a black eye. And while Spot promised it would never happen again, Davey wasn’t keen on taking any chances.
Jack, however, seemed to have no qualms with standing between his older brother and his future brother-in-law.
“Alright, alright. Is this really something worth arguing about?” Jack had positioned himself in the middle, arms outstretched either side, ready to push them back if it escalated.
Racer huffed. “I was telling him to tell you for ages.”
“Look, things between me and Jack are still kinda sticky, I just-”
“Just what, Spotty? Just thought it would be a good idea to lie to me?”
Smalls hissed as she stepped next to Davey. “Race is taking this harder than I woulda thought,” she whispered, her eyes glued to her bickering bandmates.
“Race has wanted to meet Jack for years,” Davey quietly replied. “Spot kept putting it off.” Their mini conversation died after that, too engrossed with the spectacle before them
“Okay, so Spot shouldn’t have lied,” Jack agreed. “Spot, what do you say for lying to the man you’re going to marry?”
Spot rolled his eyes at Jack’s patronising tone. “I’m sorry, Race. I should've just told you I wasn’t comfortable telling Jack yet.”
In amazement, Davey watched as Jack took a step back so Spot and Race could hug and reconcile.
“You wrangled Spot Conlon,” Davey said in awe as Jack joined him and Smalls. “Teach me your ways.”
Jack laughed. It was a rolling, deep laugh that set the nerves in Davey’s body alight. He wanted to hear it again.
“You guys are staying with me for a month, I’m sure I can impart my wisdom on you.” Jack’s phone rang and he excused himself to answer. “Hey, Specs, what’s the hold up?”
As Jack moved away, Spot and Race rejoined them. “So, what’s the verdict? What do you think about my stupid little brother?”
“Davey is infatuated.”
Davey looked to Smalls, his cheeks immediately burning. “I’m not!” His cheeks felt even hotter when his voice came out a squeak.
Smalls sniggered. “You are. You were staring at him like he created a whole galaxy just for you.”
Before he could refute it, he was interrupted by the sound of an engine. Jack walked over as the new arrival parked the car next to Jack’s truck.
A young man wearing glasses stepped out of the car, a bright grin on his face. He greeted Jack in another language that Jack responded to with an easy smoothness. Then Jack turned back to the group.
“Guys, this is Adam. But we all call him Specs. He’s one of the four boys that works on my farm. We thought that three of youse could ride with him and I’ll take one of youse and the luggage in the back of my truck.” Jack paused. “I meant sit with me at the front and have the luggage in the back. I ain’t about to make you sit in the back.”
Davey couldn’t help but chuckle as Jack stumbled over his words. Smalls just whispered in his ear, “Infatuated.”
And while Davey was distracted by glaring at her, Race piped up, “Davey can go with you.”
Jack turned to smile at Davey. “Then, I guess it’s you and me. Mind helping me load up the stuff?”
All semblance of language was stuck in Davey’s throat so he just nodded mutely and, along with Specs, helped Jack move all their luggage to his truck.
It wasn’t long before everyone was on their way to Jack’s farm.
And Davey thought his heart would beat out of his chest as he tried to hold a normal conversation with Spot’s brother.
“So..how’d someone as young as you get your own farm as big as yours?”
Jack chuckled. “You waste no time with niceties, do ya? No wonder Spot calls you the Walking Mouth.”
Davey felt his cheeks burn, stuttering apologies.
“No, I think that’s cute,” Jack told him, glancing at Davey before looking back at the road. “Uh, let’s see. I came down to Santa Fe when I was eighteen and I spent a year between jobs.
“But ‘round the time I turned nineteen, came across the previous owner of the farm. Nice lady, her husband had passed recently. He was the guy who’d been looking after the land. She said if I could do a good job looking after the place over the next year, she’d sell the farm to me.”
“So a stroke of luck was involved?” Davey couldn’t help but ask. Jack paused to smile.
“You say luck. I say fate. ” They exchanged a look and Davey let the corner of his mouth creep up.
“Then what?”
“Well, I learnt from the other farmhands and did my hardest, saving as much money as I could. She let me stay at the house so I didn’t need to rent a place in town and so it’d be easier for me to do my job.
“When a year was up, she was more than happy to sell it off to me.”
“A real example of the fulfilment of the American Dream.” Davey’s voice was a mix of sarcasm but also awe at Jack’s determination. “All you’re missing is the wife and two and a half kids.”
Jack snorted. “I’ll stick to guys for a while. Last gal I dated? I turned her into a lesbian.”
Davey burst into laughter, ignoring the fluttering in his heart. “Ouch. Can’t relate. I gave a guy his gay awakening.”
Another snort. “I don’t doubt it. Those pretty eyes are enough to make me have another bi crisis.”
Mouth dry, Davey slowly asked. “You flirt like this with everyone?”
Jack kept his gaze fixed on the road but he had a satisfied smile on his face. “You know your eyes sparkle like the stars?”
Chapter 2: Chapter 2
Chapter Text
The rest of the journey was a volley of compliments from both of them. By the time they arrived at Jack’s farm, Davey was certain that Jack liked him just as much as he liked Jack.
When they pulled up at the farm, Jack jumped out, raced around and opened Davey’s door with a slight bow.
“M’lord.”
Davey laughed as he stepped out. “You’re ridiculous.”
Jack just winked before moving to unload the truck. “D’ya mind going and knocking the door? One of my boys should be inside to unlock it.”
“Sure.” As Davey walked up to the front door, he couldn't help but stare at the farmland that surrounded them. “All this is yours?”
Jack didn’t answer, too busy trying to carry three suitcases with two hands.
Davey had to slap a hand over his mouth to hide the giggle that almost escaped.
“Pull yourself together, Jacobs,” he whispered to himself. “You’re not a little school girl, kicking her legs and twirling her hair for the pretty boy.” He looked back towards Jack who had realised that he’d throw his back out trying to carry three suitcases at once and was reluctantly putting one down. At some point, he had taken off his hat which gave a view of his soft, tousled hair. “The very very pretty boy,” Davey sighed.
Another moment was wasted staring at the handsome man before Davey forced himself to turn and knock the door. There was a steady tapping from inside and Davey took a step back, just as Jack joined him on the porch with two of the bags.
A blonde man with a smile made of sunshine opened the door, his eyes widening when he saw Davey.
“Oh. My God. Jack, I can’t believe you were telling the truth.”
Jack slung his arm around Davey’s shoulder. “Yup,” he said, popping the p. “Pay up.”
Bemused, Davey watched the blonde man reluctantly hand Jack a 20 dollar bill. “I feel like I’m missing something.”
“Charlie here, is a huge fan of yours. He couldn’t believe my brother Spot is the same Spot that plays guitar in your band.”
Charlie took a step back and Davey noticed him leaning heavily on a crutch. “The Ersters music does good for my soul, what can I say?” He held out his free hand. “Charlie Morris. Some of these assholes occasionally call me Crutchie. Just a warning, they’re not being ableist or anything.”
Shaking Charlie’s hand, Davey nodded. “Thanks for the warning.”
“Now, while I’d love to help drag those heavy suitcases inside…” he paused, then waved his crutch around. “So, I’m going back to sorting Jack’s finances because sometimes I doubt he can even count to five.”
Paying no attention to Jack’s protest, Charlie dismissed himself and walked into one of the rooms.
“Well, you’ve met my favourite,” Jack stopped himself. “Don’t tell the others, I think they have a betting pool on it.”
Davey was still looking in the direction Charlie had gone. “He’s one of the boys that help? How…”
“How does he manage it with the crutch?” Jack finished, laughing at Davey’s embarrassment. “Honestly, he helps more with my tax papers and occasionally looks after some of the animals. He was fresh out the foster system.” Jack suddenly looked abashed. “All my boys were on hard times. I gave them a job to set them up. Trying to help them all go the way they want.”
He made his way back to the truck to grab more of the luggage. Davey helped him, feeling astounded. “The way that woman gave you a chance at your dream?”
“Yeah.” Jack spoke slowly now. “Helping Charlie save money for law school. Specs’ dream is something similar to mine. You’ll meet the other two tonight. Romeo wants to open a restaurant and Albert…well, he ain’t sure yet but whatever he decides, I’ll do whatever I can to help.”
“That’s incredible of you!” Davey grinned at Jack’s blush.
“Just payin’ it forward.”
After that, they fell into a companionable silence, unloading the truck.
It was only after all the bags were inside that Specs finally arrived with the rest of the band.
“Didya take the scenic route or somethin’?” Jack questioned with a raised brow at Specs.
“Racetrack got hungry when he smelt the bakery.”
Davey face-palmed and Jack burst into laughter. Timed perfectly, Race got out of the car, brandishing a paper bag. “David. You like those pains of chocolate, right?”
“…Do you mean pain au chocolat?”
“That’s what I said.” He flung the bag at Davey who barely caught it.
Spot sighed. “Babe, you need a nap.”
Jack raised an eyebrow. “He looks like he could run the New York Marathon.” Race was practically buzzing.
“He’s overtired. Gonna crash any second. Didn't sleep on the flight.”
Jack told them which room was theirs and Spot took his fiancé inside to nap before he burst into flames.
“I think I’m gonna unpack and also nap,” Smalls declared. After Jack told her the room she was staying in, she also left.
Turning to Davey, Jack asked, “What about you? Want to get some sleep?”
Davey was about to protest but in the cruel ways of the universe, a yawn escaped him.
“Go on. I’ll make food.” Then, as if remembering suddenly, Jack snapped his fingers. “You’re Jewish, aren’t ya? Kosher food?”
“It’s okay-”
“Dave.” Jack’s tone was more serious than Davey had grown used to. “It’s not an inconvenience. Albert’s also Jewish, Specs is a Muslim convert and Romeo likes to spontaneously go vegan. I ain’t about to let my boys go hungry cuz they got different culinary needs.”
“Do you ever stop to do anything for yourself?” Davey said, almost in frustration. “You’re so kind. Jeez, Jack. What do you do for yourself?”
Jack chuckled. “This is it. Helping people. Looking after them. That’s my fuel.” Davey deflated. “You look so disappointed.”
“You need to be selfish,” Davey declared.
Jack spluttered. “Leaving home to chase my dream ain’t selfish enough for you?”
Davey narrowed his eyes. “You followed your dream and then immediately used it to look after some kids. You need to do something purely selfish.”
Jack let out a deep laugh. “Okay, Jacobs. I’ll cut ya a deal, huh? Before you leave, I will do something selfish. And you gotta do something for me?”
“Like what?”
Jack grinned. “Haven’t decided yet.” He paused before spitting on his hand and held it out. “We got a deal?”
Davey scrunched his nose at that. “That’s disgusting.”
Cleaning his hand on his jeans, Jack rolled his eyes fondly. “It’s the price of business.”
It was only when Davey was convinced that Jack’s hand was sufficiently cleaned that he finally shook it. “It’s a deal, then.”
“Now, shoo. Go get some sleep before dinner.” Davey walked to his designated room, laughing as he heard Jack yelling out the window. “Romeo! Get your ass inside and help me.”
Chapter 3: Chapter 3
Chapter Text
“Psst! Dave! In here.”
Davey had only just stepped out of his room when he heard his name. He looked around in confusion, completely surprised when Racetrack stuck his head out of his room and dragged Davey in.
Blinking, Davey realised they weren’t alone. Smalls was sitting at the window, puffing away at a cigarette. There were two other men who Davey realised must be the other two boys that worked for Jack.
“Davey, meet Albert and Romeo, my two new best friends.”
“I still resent that,” Smalls called over.
Davey huffed. “What’s going on?”
Race immediately looked panicked. “What do you think? How do I look?” He was wearing black jeans and a simple brown sweater.
“You look fine, Racer. What’s wrong?”
The red head, Albert, couldn’t help a little chuckle. “He’s overthinking dinner.”
“I am not. It’s dinner with my future brother-in-law. I’m not overthinking anything. I just want to make a good impression because what if he decides he hates me and then Spot hates me and calls off the engagement and-”
“Breathe, Race,” Davey said worriedly. He led Race to sit on the bed with him, wrapping his arms around his panicky friend. He shot Smalls a glare. “How long has he been like this?”
“About fifteen minutes. I was about to wake you but, lo and behold, you got up yourself.” Smalls squashed her cigarette in the ashtray that she must have put on the windowsill so she wouldn’t have to get up.
Romeo, the other young man, sat on the other side of Race. “Listen. Jack ain’t gonna care what you’re wearing. So long as youse good to his brother, he’s gonna love ya.”
Davey squeezed Race a little before letting go. “See?”
“‘Sides,” Romeo continued lazily. “Jack’s gonna be too busy looking at Davey the whole time,”
Davey spluttered as everyone started to laugh. “What is that supposed to mean?!”
Albert, ignoring Davey, quipped, “You’re one to talk, Romeo. Remember when you poured orange juice in your lap instead of your glass ‘cause you was too busy looking at Specs.”
“Okay, that was uncalled for!”
The door to the room opened and an amused Specs looked at the group. “Everything alright here?”
Davey had to hold back a laugh when he noticed Specs’ gaze linger on Romeo, who squeaked, “Yeah, we’re good.”
In an equally high pitch Specs replied, “That’s good…that you’re good. Uh, anyways, dinner’s ready.” And he ran out the room as if he was being chased.
There was a long silence as everyone, bar Romeo, started laughing.
“Are they always like this?” Smalls asked, wiping tears of mirth away.
Albert nodded. “Every second of every day. It’s agony.”
Everyone slowly flooded out of the room, still laughing at Romeo, but Race held Davey back.
“Okay, what’s the real issue, Racer?”
Race gave him an uncertain smile. “I think Spot wants to break up with me.”
Davey blinked. “What gave you that idea?”
Putting his head in his hands, Race started shaking. “He’s been acting weird. He falls asleep on the couch “accidentally” five days out of seven. The other two days when he falls asleep in bed with me, he’s up and out of the house before I’m even awake.”
“Race…”
“He’s not been telling me stuff. Or dodging the truth. Like he did about telling Jack about the engagement.” Race lifted his head, his eyes full of tears. “I’m losing him, Davey. I’m scared because I don’t know what I did. Or what I didn’t do. I don’t know. I just thought, since Jack means so much to him that if I make a good impression, he’ll keep me.”
Davey took Race by the shoulders so he was fully facing him, before holding both of his hands.
“He shouldn’t feel obligated to keep you. That’s not right. He should want you. Regardless of what Jack, or anyone else thinks.” There was a box of tissues on the bedside table and Davey handed them to Race, giving him a moment to clean himself up. “I’ll find out what Spot’s been up to. But Race? He loves you. I know he does. How long has this been happening?”
Racer sniffed. “About two months?” he answered miserably.
“You mean around the time we found out about this gig?” When Race nodded, Davey let out a long sigh. “Maybe he was just stressed about this. He hasn’t seen Jack in person in four years. And like you said, Jack’s his little brother, he means a lot to Spot.”
Race’s expression turned guilty. “I didn’t even think that. God, I’m an ass.”
Shoving him lightly, Davey joked, “I know. But we love you anyways.” Race could only give him a tense smile. “I’ll find out what’s been happening. And don’t worry about your first impression. Jack will love you.”
Race lay his head on Davey’s shoulder, exhausted. “Thanks. I’m lucky to have you.” They sat like that for a few minutes until Race finally took a deep breath and stood. “Let’s not keep them waiting.”
When they walked to the dining room, they found everyone chatting, food untouched. Spot looked up when he noticed them walk in and his eyes widened in shock when he saw Race’s red nose and wet eyes. He stood so quickly, Smalls had to catch his chair to stop it from toppling to the ground.
“Tony? What happened?” He pulled Race into a hug, rocking them gently as they stood.
After a moment of basking in the comfort, Race pulled back. “Just feeling a little frazzled,” he admitted. Spot pulled him in for another hug. Everyone at the table resumed their conversations, giving the couple their moment.
“Dave?” Jack gestured to the empty seat next to him and, once he was sure Race was going to be okay, Davey sat. “What was that all about?” Jack’s voice was laced with worry.
Pulling his lips into a tight smile, Davey told him. “Amongst other things? He was worried about making a good impression on you.”
Jack quickly clapped a hand over his mouth and Davey stared. “Sorry,” Jack whispered in a breathy laugh. “It’s just that I’ve been worried about making a good impression on him.”
“Oh, you two are gonna get along just fine,” Davey laughed.
When Spot and Race sat down, everyone helped themselves to the food.
“This is so much better than Davey’s cooking,” Smalls exclaimed as she ate. Race and Spot made sounds of agreement.
Davey was affronted. “At least I can cook.” But he had to admit, this food almost riveled his mother’s.
Jack laughed. “You can thank Romeo. He don’t want to open that restaurant for no reason.”
Romeo blushed, muttering under his breath that it wasn’t as good as they were all saying it was.
“Don’t sell yourself short, kid,” Jack told him. “A little more practice and time and you’ll be a full fledged restaurant owner in no time.”
Davey couldn’t help but smile at how eternally supportive Jack was. They caught each other’s eyes and Davey forced himself to turn and start a conversation with Charlie instead, ignoring the way his cheeks burned and his smile grew.
“So you guys gonna be releasing any new music while you’re here?” Charlie was trying - and failing - to curb his enthusiasm.
“Well, we’ve got some that we’ve only performed a few times. Not on our Spotify or anything. And a few new cover songs.” Davey shrugged. “I wanted to write a completely new and original song for the last day of this…” He turned to Jack. “Festival?”
“That’s what we prefer to call it.”
Davey nodded and turned back to Charlie. “Yeah, but inspiration is lacking so nothing that no one’s never heard before.”
“Well,” Jack began, pausing to have a drink of water. “I can take ya’ll over to where youse are gonna be performing from Monday, let you guys get yourselves set up.”
“That would be perfect.” Race perked up at Jack’s suggestion. “Maybe we can get a bit of practice in as well?”
“I don’t see why not.”
Race grinned and the rest of the band smiled, happy to see him feeling better.
Once again everyone broke into separate conversations. Davey chanced a glance at Jack who was staring at him, almost curiously. When he noticed he’d been caught, Jack quickly turned to talk to Specs.
He’s blushing, Davey thought, completely disregarding the fact that his cheeks were also warm.
Chapter 4: Chapter 4
Chapter Text
Davey groaned softly, hearing his phone buzzing incessantly. He hadn’t set an alarm which could only mean one thing.
Through bleary eyes, Davey accepted the call, before shoving his face back into his pillow.
“Good morning, Ima.” Davey’s voice was severely muffled by his pillow but, in the infinite mystery that was his mother, Esther Jacobs knew exactly what he was saying.
“Good morning, David,” she replied, her Polish much clearer considering her face wasn’t hidden in a pillow. She was making herself a cup of tea. Davey could tell by the sound of the spoon clinking against the cup. No doubt the cup Les had decorated for her when he was seven. “Why are you still in bed?”
Davey frowned, lifting his head long enough to just look at the time. “Ima, it’s three past seven in the morning.”
He finally removed his face from the pillow to see his mother’s smile falter slightly. “Oh right. Timezones.”
Sitting up, Davey offered his mother a reassuring smile. “I’m fine. I’ll be back in New York faster than you can say ‘carpe diem’.”
“Carpe diem.” But her smile was stronger now. “You’re right, my child. Seize the day. This opportunity. Don’t mind me. I just miss you.”
“I don’t even live at home anymore, Ima.” Davey laughed. But his mother didn’t need to explain. He understood perfectly. “How’s Aba?”
With the comedic timing of a sitcom, Davey heard an exclamation from Mayer in the background, followed by swearing in about four different languages. Les’ cackling was even louder.
Esther sighed. “Your Aba insisted on setting up Les’ new desk. You can tell how that’s going.”
Davey got up and moved to the window, taking in the rising sun as his mother yelled in Polish for Mayer to at least eat something first.
Jack was outside, guiding a horse by the reins and seemingly just surveying his farm.
“Ima? I’m gonna go. I’ll text you later.” He assured her that he would eat, gave his love before she was satisfied and let him end the call. He freshened himself up and made his way outside.
Jack noticed him quickly and beamed at him. “What’s your thoughts on apricots?”
Davey waited till he was closer before answering. “I love a good apricot.” He should’ve seen it coming and yet he was still surprised when Jack plucked an apricot from the tree next to him and tossed it at him. Davey fumbled but he caught it, “Is it even clean?”
Jack rubbed the back of his neck. “You got a point. Bring it here.” He had a saddlebag on the back of the horse and he pulled out a bottle of water. He took the apricot and cleaned it before handing it back.
Slowly, Davey took a bite. “Mm, that’s delicious!” It didn’t take him too long to finish it. “Maybe I should rethink my career choices.”
Jack chuckled. “Thank you.” He gently pet the horse. “Davey, meet Teddy.”
“Teddy?”
“I…may or may not have been a Teddy Roosevelt fan. I didn’t know what else to name him. Hence why Crutchie names the rest of the animals.”
“Well, it’s very nice to meet you, Teddy.”
Teddy stared hard at him for a long moment before nudging him in the chest.
“Ever ride a horse, Jacobs?”
Davey laughed. “Growing up in the Big Apple? Not a chance.”
“Well, better late than never.”
He blinked at Jack. “Excuse me?”
“You’re excused.”
“I’m serious!” Davey looked at Teddy in alarm, who seemed to have grown bulkier and moodier in response to his fear.
“If you’re going ‘round the farm with me, it’ll be easier for you. ‘S a lotta land.”
Jack left no room for argument. So Davey approached the horse hesitantly, following Jack’s instructions until he was on the back of the horse.
Ever patient, Jack told him how to put his feet in the stirrups and where to hold with his hands. “I’ll be guiding you with the reins the whole time. So long as you hold on, nothing’s gonna happen to you.”
“Okay.” Davey’s fear was great but Jack’s voice was laced with assurance that it was impossible to not believe every word.
They started going around the farm in silence as Davey was putting all his concentration into not falling. The only words spoken were Jack calling one of the boys tending to their section of the farm.
When Davey was sure he wasn’t going to die, he asked. “It must be nice to be back with your brother, huh?”
To Davey’s surprise, Jack scoffed. “Sure, nice.” Feeling he had treaded on a sore subject today, Davey decided to stay quiet. Then Jack let out a long suffering sigh. “Sean ever tell you what happened ‘tween us?”
“Just the bare bones while we were in the taxi on our way here.”
Jack’s bark of laughter was indicative that he wasn’t surprised at all.
“My dad was an absolute asshole. I’d rather not go into it but by the time I got out of there and put into Mama’s care, I had a fear of the city, I guess.” Jack shrugged. “All I knew was those years in the city, I was stressed, like I couldn’t breathe.”
“I’m so sorry, Jack.”
“Don’t be.” Jack gently brought Teddy to a stop, pulling out a bottle of water, offering it to Davey. Once both of them were a little more hydrated, they kept going. “I wasn’t quiet about my dream to move out West,” Jack admitted. “Got my opportunity after my 18th and…well, y’know the rest of that.
“But a fella, no matter how much he hates the city, he gets homesick. For his folks, y’know. Mama means everything to me and Sean’s my brother. I couldn’t help but miss ‘em.
“So I went back two years later, for Thanksgiving. A surprise.” Jack paused, his expression unreadable. “Spot kept asking me if I was staying and kept tryna convince me that I needed to get a real job in the city. He wouldn’t stop pushing.” Jack chuckled but there was no amusement there. “Until that day, I truly believed I was nothing like my old man. But the way I exploded…”
“You had every right to.” Davey’s expression hardened. Spot never told him what happened with Jack but there was always the insinuation that it was Jack’s fault. Now Davey wasn’t sure that was the truth.
“It broke my Mama's heart. I left halfway through dinner in a fit of rage and didn’t look back. I didn’t get back in contact with her until a year ago.”
No one spoke for a long time, Jack just guiding his horse whilst Davey absorbed all the information.
Eventually, Davey pushed. “You seemed happy to see Spot yesterday.”
“I was! He’s my big brother. I spent years regretting overreacting at him being concerned. It was a new venture, he just wanted me to have a stable job. I thought that now that I’m settled, he’d drop it.”
Davey filled in the gaps. “You wanted to have a drink with him before he crashed for the night and he brought it up again.”
“We have a winner!” Jack quipped. “I just don’t know why he won’t leave it alone.”
“Spot seems to have a talent for upsetting people.”
Jack turned to look at Davey curiously. “What d’ya mean?”
Davey told Jack what Race had said the previous day.
“I may not know Race very well but I already know he’s the best thing to happen to Spot.”
“I’m gonna talk to him before we leave later,” Davey assured him, glad that someone else shared his frustration.
For the last time, Jack brought Teddy to a stop. That was when Davey realised that Jack had completed his morning rounds and they’d come full circle.
Jack helped him dismount and Davey just sat on the ground with an oompf .
“You okay down there?” Jack’s eyes were twinkling in amusement as he gave Davey the water bottle.
“Just tired.”
“Mm, yes. Sitting down on your high horse must be exhausting.”
“Hey,” Davey interjected, his tone light. “That’s your horse.”
When they finally decided to go back inside, Davey heard what sounded like chirping.
Jack seemed to instantly realise what it was because he groaned, “Crutchie!”
They walked into the dining room where Charlie was looking through some papers. Prancing around his feet were three ducklings.
“I thought I said they aren’t allowed inside, Crutch.”
At least Charlie had the decency to look embarrassed. “I thought I could get them out before you came back inside?”
Jack rolled his eyes but there was no malice in his voice as he announced that he was going to go make breakfast.
Charlie picked up one of the ducklings trying to climb up his crutch.
“Meet Breadstick, Cheese and Quackers.”
“They’re adorable.” Davey sat at the table. “But what’s with the food names?”
“He was high and hungry when he named them!” Jack called from the kitchen.
“I was not high!” Then he turned back to Davey. “But I was hungry.”
The door opened. Specs, Albert and Romeo wandered in, dirty but smiling. Jack must have heard them because he came back in.
“Hit the shower, fellas. I’m making pancakes.”
“Okay, dad,” They said in scary unison and they disappeared down the hall.
“Dad?” Davey teased.
Jack just groaned and waved his comment off.
Turning back to Charlie. Davey asked, “You had three ducks. Why not Huey, Dewey and Louie?”
Apparently this wasn’t the first time Charlie had heard this. “I haven’t watched the thing.”
“What!?”
“What’s our David getting righteously upset about this time?” Race yawned as he walked in. He sat next to Davey and leaned heavily against him, rubbing his eyes.
“Charlie hasn’t seen Ducktales!”
“Neither has Spotty.”
“What haven’t I done?”
“Watched Ducktales.”
Davey stared at Spot. “Why are we friends?”
“Because you decided you wanted to start a band in college and I was the only person who was interested.”
Davey huffed, picking up one of the ducks which ran into his leg, petting it and pouting as people slowly trickled back into the room.
Specs ducked into the kitchen and a few minutes later, he and Jack emerged with plates of pancakes.
“Where’s the-”
“Nutella is in the cupboard where it normally is. Get it yourself, Albert.”
There was chaos as Jack simultaneously shepherded Charlie’s ducklings off the table and replaced them with breakfast.
Davey quickly understood while they had jokingly called him Dad. Jack made sure everyone had food and something to drink before he finally dropped onto the chair across from Davey.
“Once youse lot are done eating, I’ll take ya’ll inta town so youse can set up and practise. All your stuff arrived last week.” Jack pointed his fork at Charlie. “Take the ducklings outside, Crutchie. We got guests, we don’t have much time to clean up after them.”
Charlie deflated a bit. He just mumbled an agreement and Jack instantly looked regretful.
“Crutchie, I-”
“I think I’m finished eating.” He’d barely eaten a morsel. Charlie stood, gathered his ducklings together and left the room.
Jack sighed, standing as well. He looked sharply at Specs, Romeo and Albert. “Behave. Dave’s still here keeping an eye on you.”
They waited until Jack had left the room before grinning cheekily.
David, as the older brother to one of the obnoxious brats in the entire universe (in his unbiased opinion), did not like that look.
“What?”
“Nothing,” Romeo said, drowning his pancakes in syrup. “Mom.”
Davey went red in the face and everyone at the table burst into laughter. It was glaringly obvious that everyone knew about his crush on Jack.
Everyone but Jack.
“Aww, we’re just teasing you, David.” Smalls was trying - and failing - to be sincere.
Davey stood, trying to look nonplussed (a difficult task when his cheeks were still bright), taking his plate, as well as the plates Jack and Charlie had abandoned.
“I’m gonna go make sure they eat.”
“You’re such a dedicated wife,” Specs teased.
“Careful, Juliet. I know your secret.” Davey laughed loudly as Specs spluttered and tried to distract Romeo.
“Secret? What secret?”
“A secret secret.”
With the ease of someone who spent too many years as a waiter, Davey took the plates outside. He almost tripped over Charlie’s crutch. They were sitting on the porch.
Jack was hugging Charlie and looked up over his head at Davey in amusement.
“Sorry, I’m not nosing in. Just thought you two might like to eat out here instead.”
Charlie sniffed and rubbed his eyes aggressively. He gave Davey a watery grin. “Thanks.”
He handed over their plates. “Do you want me to-”
“No, it's okay.” Charlie patted the space next to him and Davey sat.
For a while, they ate in silence, watching the ducklings run around in front of them.
“You okay now?” Jack mumbled to Charlie.
Charlie just nodded. “A bit, yeah. Thanks, Jack.”
“It’s my fault you-”
“I already forgave you,” Charlie told him. “You have the rule in place for a reason but I was having a shit morning…”
“I know it’s not my place to say anything at all,” Davey said, wincing at the fact that he had to say something. No wonder Spot called him the Walking Mouth. “But the weather will be getting colder. Maybe you can just slowly start to keep ‘em inside overnight. Charlie can let them out after breakfast. I don’t know.”
Jack smiled. “I think we can work something out, can’t we Charls?”
Charlie’s eyes widened. “Seriously?”
“Gimme the day to work out the best way to handle this but Dave may be on to something there.”
The rest of their breakfast was cut short as Race ran outside shrieking, Smalls bolting after him. She was carrying a water gun.
Davey sighed. This was not the first time it had happened. He was about to stand to go after them when Spot stepped outside, chuckling at their antics. He exchanged a look with Jack, who just nodded.
“Hey, Crutchie. Why don’t I help you with the animals for a bit?” He looked back at Davey. “Let me know when ya’ll are ready to go.”
Davey took a deep breath.
“Spot? We need to talk.”
Chapter 5: Chapter 5
Chapter Text
They walked to the room Davey was staying in, silently.
Neither spoke until Davey closed the doors behind them.
“Okay, Spot, you’re my best friend so I feel obligated to ask you this…what the fuck is wrong with you?”
Spot frowned. “Davey, what are you talking about?”
“Are you cheating on Racer?”
Davey felt slightly placated at how aghast Spot looked. “What!? No! Is this why he was upset yesterday?”
“He says you’ve been distant the last few months. You’re not even spending the nights with him properly.”
Raking a hand through his hair, Spot swore. “I never meant for him to think that.”
Davey sat on the bed and Spot followed suit. “Sean, what are you up to?”
“A surprise for the wedding.”
Davey raised an eyebrow. “What are you plotting, Conlon?”
Sean laughed at the teasing in Davey’s voice. “Y’know how Tony’s mom had to give him up as a baby and he’s never had the chance to meet her?”
“Yes…”
“I’m planning our wedding to be in Italy…and for her to be there.”
Davey stared and burst into happy tears. “That is the cutest thing ever! Spot, I didn’t know you had it in you!” A gasp escaped as he realised. “That explains the late nights.”
“And early mornings. Timezones are a bitch. She’s helping me coordinate everything and sorting out the finer details that we can’t, being so far away.”
“Wow, okay… wow.” Then Davey remembered the intense fear in Race’s eyes the previous evening. “Spot, you have to tell him.” He quickly continued before Spot could interrupt. “Okay, keep the mom thing a secret but he’s convinced he’s done something wrong.
“Tell him the wedding is in Italy and you’re awake at weird hours talking to the wedding planner.” He smiled conspiratorially. “He doesn't need to know that the wedding planner is his mother.”
Spot grinned. “That’s perfect. Then I can get his input on some stuff without having to ask him in ‘round about ways.”
Davey enveloped Spot in a hug. Spot sighed, not much of a hugger, but he returned it.
“You okay there, Mouth?”
“How has 24 hours been so emotionally exhausting?” Davey sighed into Spot’s shoulder.
“Because you give too much of a damn about the rest of us.”
“Oh my God, is that a compliment? ”
Spot rolled his eyes and pushed Davey away. “Yeah, yeah. You stick to slobbering over my little brother.”
“I am not!”
Albert chose that moment to pop his head in. “Jack’s asking if youse lot are ready to head into town? We’ve just wrangled Race and Smalls.”
“Yeah, we’re coming.”
Spot stood but Davey stopped him. “One more thing. Stop hassling your brother.”
“I’m…”
“He’s happy. He’s not surviving, he’s thriving here. Doing a world of good for the community and the boys he’s taken in. He’s made his life, focus on your own.”
“He’s my baby brother.” Spot almost pleaded.
“Jack’s not a kid anymore, Spot. You need to learn to see that.”
Davey left Spot to ruminate.
The town was, in Davey’s opinion, so incredibly cute. It reminded him of the small towns typical to the Hallmark movies Sarah and her girlfriend bullied David and Les into watching with them.
“I can see why you wouldn’t want to move back to the city.” Davey said over his shoulder to Jack. “It’s cosy here.”
“Yup. And it helps that there’s plenty of friendly people here.” Jack replied, smiling and waving at the people they passed.
“My drumsssss!”
Race bolted in front of them at the sight of his drums on the elevated platform that had been set up in preparation for the coming month.
He rummaged around for his drumsticks and tapped them together excitedly.
“You do know they’re not properly set up yet?” Smalls said, eyebrow raised.
“I know that. I’m just excited.” Then he looked around at the set. “Smalls?”
“Yeah, I’ll help you.” She rolled her eyes but made her way over to Race.
“So, what preparation have you got to do? Since you don’t have an instrument.” Jack asked, sitting himself at the edge of the stage while Davey climbed up.
“I’m the only one that knows how to set up the sound system without setting it alight.”
Smalls glared at him.
“Well, is there any way I can help?”
“Yeah, stay out of my way,” Davey requested, brightly.
Jack gave him a mock salute and Davey got to work.
There was a companionable silence for a while until there was a faint strumming.
Looking over, Davey was surprised to see it was Jack, tuning Spot’s guitar.
“You know how to tune a guitar?”
“I play it. Have my own back at the house. Who do you think taught Sean?”
Spot was pointedly not looking at Jack. Davey wondered if it was because of their conversation earlier or because he didn’t want to admit he learned from Jack.
“Play us something then, Kelly.”
Jack just winked. “Another time, handsome. I’m gonna go grab us some lunch.”
He leapt off the stage and walked away, not noticing the way Davey’s jaw had dropped.
“He’s not the first person to call you handsome,” Smalls pointed out.
“Okay…I might have a crush on him.”
“Hang on.” Race took a long sip of water then spat it out over his shoulder, crying out, “Really?!” in mock disbelief.
Davey groaned as the rest of the band laughed. “I hate you all.”
That evening, they were all crowded in Jack’s living room, the Ducktales intro frozen on screen.
“Hurry up, Davey’s about to explode in anticipation.”
“No, I am not! Shut up, Race.”
“Coming, coming. Patience, folks.”
Jack breezed into the room, arm full of a warm towel and three damp but clean ducklings. Charlie followed, looking tired but happy. He sat in the armchair and Jack gently deposited the towel and ducklings on his lap. “Thanks, Jack.”
“O’course. Careful, ‘kay?”
Davey watched as he straightened and scanned the room. Romeo, Specs, Albert and Race were huddled on one of the mattresses on the floor (while the band was visiting, the farmhands had given up their rooms to accommodate. Charlie was using Jack’s room but Jack and the other three were sleeping on the couch or the two mattresses Jack had wrangled somehow). Davey, Spot and Smalls were on the main couch. There was only one space left, Davey realised: next to him.
Jack grinned and sauntered over. “May I?”
“I…yeah, obviously. Go ahead.”
Spot leaned over and whispered, “Stop slobbering.”
Davey sharply smacked Spot’s leg and before he could complain, he asked, “Everyone ready?”
When everyone made some sound of assent, he pressed play.
“So, Dave. Ready for tomorrow?”
Their first proper performance. Jack was obviously being polite by asking but the thought of it made Davey’s mouth dry in fear.
As if knowing what he was thinking, Jack put a gentle hand on Davey’s leg. “I heard you practising earlier. You got nothing to worry about. I’ll be there rooting you on.”
They shared a smile and turned their attention to the TV.
About three episodes in, Davey found it difficult to keep his eyes open. The stress of the last day had taken a lot out of him.
“That’s enough for today. Let’s get you to bed, Dave.”
Jack put an arm around his waist and Davey - basically half asleep - lazily draped his arm around Jack’s shoulders.
They stumbled down the hall to Davey’s room. “You’re a heavy guy, Jacobs.”
“Sorry.”
Jack chuckled. Davey could feel it. It made his chest feel warm. “You had a long twenty four hours, I’m surprised you ain’t completely passed out.”
Davey just hummed as they entered the room and Jack got him to sit on the bed.
“Need anything else?”
“‘M good. Thanks.”
Jack smiled. “Rest up, Dave. Bigger day tomorrow.”
He left the room quietly and Davey made himself comfortable under the covers. Jack was right. It was a big day tomorrow.
Chapter 6: Chapter 6
Chapter Text
“Aba, will you please calm Ima down?”
“She’s just excited.”
“Well, she can be excited, quieter. I need to write down this thought before I forget.”
Hearing that, his mother quickly silenced before asking. “You’re writing a new song? That’s wonderful, my son. What’s it about?”
Davey’s eyes flickered to Jack. He was in the passenger seat of the truck, the rest of the band happily chattering at the back. “Spot’s brother said something to me the first day.” David’s Polish brought back his old accent. He wished he could keep the accent when talking in English. “It inspired me.”
Meyer’s eyes widened. “I can’t believe it. Our David is ready to start dating properly again.”
“Now, hang on just one moment. When did I say that?”
“It was implied,” Esther said in the most matter-of-fact voice possible. “Is he there?”
“Yes, he’s the one driving.”
“David, you’ve been so lonely. All these silly one night stands aren’t healthy.” His mother sounded sad.
“Ima, even if I was ready, he lives here. I live in New York.”
“If it’s destined, everything will work itself out.”
Davey sighed. “This isn’t why I called you.”
“Don’t worry, Sarah has promised to come ‘round and play your dumb livestream,” Les called from wherever he was off screen.
“It’s not dumb!”
“Is too!”
“Is not!”
“David,” his mother reprimanded.
“Les started it.”
“So you finish it. You’re an adult.” Davey made the mistake of rolling his eyes at that. “Watch that attitude.”
“Ima.” Davey sighed. “Fine. Gotta go.” He ended the call abruptly.
“Everything okay?”
“Yeah. Just my parents getting on my case about things.”
“Wanna rant? I’m happy to just listen.”
Davey considered it. Perhaps it wasn’t the best idea. He’d only know Jack for a few days. But Davey really needed someone to talk to and Jack was as good a choice as any.
“I had a really shitty boyfriend back in my last year of high school. Not abusive or anything. Just did not give two fucks about being a boyfriend. He had the title and that was it.” Davey shrugged. “I’ve been all about no-strings-attached flings since then. He just…put me off.”
“What a jackass. I hate him.”
Davey laughed. “You’ve never met him.”
“Don’t care. How could someone date you and not want to shower you with love and attention?”
A flush appeared on his cheeks.
“You’re just saying that.”
It was silent for a moment as Jack parked. He told the others they would catch up and he waited until they were out of sight before turning to Davey.
“And what if I’m not?” His gaze was bright and unwavering, making Davey feel warm. “There is a person out there who thinks you’re smart and sexy. Who wants to be with you, all the time, and give you the attention you deserve.”
Davey’s breath shook as he leaned in slightly. “Yeah? What else does that guy think?”
“He thinks you’re incredibly kind and trustworthy and the finest guy he’s ever seen in his life.” Jack leaned in as well, a hand on Davey’s knee. “He thinks your accent when you speak other languages is very hot. And he wanted to kiss you the moment he met you,”
Voice just a whisper, Davey replied, “It’s not too late.”
Instinctively, his eyes fluttered shut. He was close enough to feel Jack’s warmth. Just one more moment…
A sharp ringing made them spring apart. Davey glared at his phone as he looked at the name. “It’s my sister. I should probably take this.”
Before Jack could reply, Davey got out of the truck and answered.
“Hey, Sarah.”
“Davey! We’re calling to wish you good luck for tonight. Right, Kitty?”
The voice of Sarah’s girlfriend, Katherine, was faint. She was most likely in another room.
Davey rolled his eyes fondly. “I love you too, Kath!”
Sarah sighed. “She got distracted by a shiny new project at work.”
“Rightly so. She needs something to keep her busy while you’re saving lives and making us look bad.”
“I’m a nurse, not a first responder.”
“You’re a damn good nurse.”
“Hush, you. I’ll call in the morning. Have fun and make sure you get pictures.”
Davey said goodbye and ended the call. He took a deep breath before making his way into the town.
“Where the hell is Racer?”
“He’s grabbing us some bottles of water, Davey. Chill.” Smalls flicked the strings of her bass absentmindedly
Just as Davey opened his mouth to worry more, Race arrived.
“Stop panicking, Dave. Here.” He handed Davey one of the bottles. Davey wasted no time in opening it and downing nearly the entire thing. A mistake in hindsight as his stomach sloshed in a mixture of fear and water.
“Albert’s offered to take pictures and videos for us.” Spot informed him, looking up from his phone.
“How are you all so calm?”
“We don't chronically have heart attacks every five minutes?” Smalls suggested.
“Davey, have you heard your voice?” Race patted his shoulder. “We’re good.”
Just then, Romeo came over to them. “You’re on.”
So they made their way onto the stage. It was a bigger crowd than Davey had been expecting. People were looking at them expectantly.
Davey scanned the audience and found Jack right in the centre of the crowd. He gave Davey a thumbs up and mimicked a deep breath.
Copying the motion, Davey felt a wave of calm wash over him. He could do this.
His eyes didn’t leave Jack almost the entire time.
“That. Was. Incredible!” They were all gathered in Jack’s living room, cold from the journey back in the night but flushed with excitement.
“We were on fire,” Race declared, snuggling next to Spot. Spot had told him about the wedding after the concert and Race had spent the last two hours bouncing off the walls. He’d only just crashed, now clinging to his fiancé like a lifeline.
“These pictures are incredible, Albert!” Charlie had a lapful of duckling as he skimmed through the images on the camera.
Jack looked over from where he was sitting next to Davey. “Al, you didn’t tell me you was so good at photography.”
Albert shrugged. “I didn’t know. But it was fun.”
Jack smiled and Davey leaned in and whispered, “What are you plotting, Kelly?”
A chuckle was the only reply Jack gave him.
Smalls took the camera and looked through it appraisingly. “I’m gonna grab my laptop so we can upload these to our Instagram.
Specs sat on the mattress on the floor, crossed legged. “Your first ever live performance. How do ya’ll feel?”
Spot and Davey exchanged a happy look. “It was everything I ever imagined,” Davey admitted. “It was exhausting and bright and loud and amazing. I can’t wait to play again tomorrow.”
Smalls returned and sat between Romeo and Specs. In the last forty eight hours, they had practically adopted her. It warmed Davey’s heart.
“I need a drink.”
“Jack doesn’t trust us enough to keep alcohol here.”
Sighing, Jack corrected, “I don’t trust myself. But I’ll get some from town this weekend and we can make an evening of it.”
Everyone burst into a cheer and Davey giggled at Jack’s feigned sigh.
“Now I get why they call you Dad.”
Jack glared at Davey and settled back into the couch with a huff.
“So, Charlie, thoughts on the show?” Race gestured up to where another episode of Ducktales was playing.
“I regret not naming my ducklings Huey, Dewey and Louie.”
“You could always change their names,” Davey suggested brightly.
Charlie rolled his eyes. “Absolutely not. Their names are forever attached to them.”
Davey pretended to huff in annoyance. But he was smiling as he, Smalls and Albert went through the pictures to decide which ones to post where.
Each of the band members ended up with a handful of images and a clip to post to their individual Instagram pages, as well as more for the band’s page.
“I want that picture.” Jack was pointing at the laptop. Davey glanced over and his cheeks flushed. It was a picture of him, the fairy like lighting in the background making his pale skin nearly glow. His eyes were closed and his lips were parted just slightly: a small breath between his singing. Davey wasn’t a narcissist by any means but even he could admit that he looked very good in that image.
“What for?” Smalls asked, saving the image before sending it to Jack.
“I’ve been meaning to change my phone background. My celebrity crush is as good a choice as any.”
Romeo wolf whistled, the sharp sound making Smalls jump. “Dude!”
“Sorry.” He was not sorry at all.
Davey watched as Jack pinched his screen, angling the image so his face wasn’t blocked by the clock.
“I’m gonna go call my family and then crash. We’ve only got another 29 shows to do.” His chuckle was awkward but no one noticed it.
He got murmurs from most of the group as he walked out the room, petting one of the ducklings on his way out.
Then, he made the mistake of looking back at Jack, startled and simultaneously not surprised to see Jack already staring at him.
“G’night, Dave.”
Even years later, he wouldn’t be able to explain the next two words out of his mouth.
“Goodnight, Jackie.”
His stomach twisted in delight at the way Jack’s jaw dropped. Davey was quick to leave the room after that.
Chapter 7: Chapter 7
Chapter Text
It was kind of nice how quickly the whole group developed a routine over the next two weeks.
Jack, Specs, Albert, Romeo and Charlie spent the morning fulfilling their usual tasks around the farm.
More often than not, the band was either asleep at that time (“If there is no reason for me to be up at the crack of dawn, I will not get up at the crack of dawn” - Smalls), or in the case of Spot and Davey, calling home.
Occasionally, Davey would join Jack doing his rounds or sit with Charlie amongst the animals he cared for.
They’d all have breakfast together before heading into town. To return Jack’s hospitality, the band did what they could to help with the stalls he and his farmhands ran.
Every evening, The Ersters would perform a set to steadily increasing crowds.
That first weekend, Jack was true to his word. He bought takeout and alcohol and they spent a few hours drinking and celebrating a successful week.
Jack had a special surprise for Albert that day: his own camera.
“I think we’ve found what you wanna do with your life.”
Albert took many many pictures that night.
Davey felt settled. He could live like this forever.
Then, two weeks after their arrival in Santa Fe, reality decided to slap him in the face.
Davey was with Romeo at the stall he had where he made little food samples using stuff grown on the farm; it was encouragement for prospective customers.
“You have to ask him out.” Davey told him for the hundredth time that day, taking some change from a lady.
Romeo scowled at him. “I can’t do that,” was his reply for the hundredth time.
“Why not?” Davey probed. He sat back in his chair and raised an eyebrow. “He likes you. Instead of just pining for each other, you could be together.”
Romeo laughed. “Says the man that refuses to tell Jack how he feels despite knowing there’s a shared attraction.”
Davey waved that comment away. “It’ll pass,” he said, giving the same excuse he’d been telling himself for two weeks
“And if it doesn’t?”
Romeo asked the question Davey had been avoiding like the plague.
Swallowing the lump in his throat, Davey replied, “It wouldn’t work. He has his life here. Mine is in New York.” Then he became insistent. “But you and Specs are here. Together.”
Romeo breathed out slowly. “Fine. I’ll…I’ll ask him tonight.”
Davey clapped enthusiastically, yelping as Romeo threw a cherry tomato at his forehead.
“Off your ass and help me, Jacobs.”
They shared a grin and got back to work.
An hour later, Davey realised that he had to go get ready to perform. He said goodbye to Romeo, for the time being, and started walking towards the stage.
His phone trilled loudly just as he got there. He answered blindly.
“Hello?”
On the other side, he heard crying and gasping. “Davey!”
“Les?” He pulled the phone away from his face for a moment to see his mother’s contact. “What’s wrong? Why are you crying?”
“It’s Aba! He’s in hospital.”
Davey felt paralysed. “He…what?!”
Les was sobbing profusely. “He- Ima got a call from the hospital saying he was hurt at work. She gave me her phone to call Sarah so I can stay with her and Kath while she goes to Aba.”
Davey could barely hear Les. Blood thundered past his ears. The worst case scenarios rushed through his mind in rapid succession.
“I…Okay…” He took a long breath. “Did you call Sarah?”
“She’s got a late shift at work. I called Kath. She’s gonna pick me up.”
“Under my old bed, there’s a suitcase. I want you to pack at least three full sets of clothes, a charger for your tablet, anything else you’re gonna need. Those vitamins you eat as well. Put all your books and pencils in your school bag.” It was so difficult to keep his voice from wobbling. “Don’t forget Ima’s phone. I’ll call Kitty and see if she knows anything else. Aba will be fine.
“How do you know?”
He didn’t answer.
“No missing school. I know you have tests next week. Behave for Kath and Sarah. It’s all gonna be okay. I promise.”
“Will you come home?”
Les rarely spoke Polish. So hearing that little voice force its way through that sentence made Davey’s heart crack.
“First, let’s make sure Aba’s okay. I-”
“Care more about your stupid dream than our dad. Got it.”
“That’s not-”
Les abruptly ended the call.
Davey took a shuddering breath. And then another as he dialled Katherine’s number.
“Kath?”
“David! I was about to call you. I’m going to go pick up Les. Don’t worry about him. Sarah’s trying to find out what happened. She promised to text you when she finds out. I’ll cook something once I get back and take it to Mom. And I’m gonna take a few days off just to look after everyone.” Katherine spoke rapidly, in a single breath.
Davey was overwhelmed by how amazing his sister’s girlfriend was. “You’re a lifesaver, Kitty. And, yeah, I spoke to Les. Told him to pack stuff so he can stay over.”
“It’s my family as well, Davey. Oh, also. Don’t you dare book a flight back to New York until we know what the situation is.”
“I know. Les got angry about that. Said I thought my dream was more important than my own father.”
Katherine’s voice softened. He could almost see, in his mind, the way her eyes grew warm. “He’s a kid. He’s hurting. Sarah’s working. Mom’s at the hospital with Dad. You’re out in a completely different state. He probably feels scared and alone.” When Davey didn’t say anything, she reassured him, “I’ll talk to him. Just let him process what’s happening. I’ll call you later. Good luck with tonight’s performance. Love ya.”
“Yeah. Love you too.” He let her end the call. The situation hit him like a tonne of bricks and he dropped to his knees, staring at his phone hopelessly. He couldn’t call his mother: her phone was with Les. He didn’t know if his father had his phone. Or if he could even answer it,
“Dave?” Someone kneeled opposite him. “Davey. Look at me.” Davey tilted his head up to look at Jack. “What’s wrong?”
His gaze dropped again. “My dad’s in hospital.”
Before he could even think about what to say next, Jack’s arms were around him. Davey started crying.
“We…I don’t even know what happened, I’m just so scared and…” He was soaking the shoulder of Jack’s shirt but the fact that Jack’s grip was so strong stopped him from pulling away.
“‘S alright. Take a moment, Dave.”
About fifteen minutes passed before Davey was feeling a little put together. Jack finally let him pull away.
“Okay. You called home?”
“My mom doesn’t have her phone and my sister’s working. But my sister’s girlfriend is taking care of things right now. I just…” Jack didn’t say anything, letting him put his thoughts into cohesive sentences. “That should be me . I’m the one who should be running around frantically, cooking for my family, making sure my siblings are okay, supporting my mom.”
“Dave, if you want, I can take you back to the farm, right now. You can pack up and go home, even for a few days.”
Davey shook his head, chuckling a little. “I’ve been told by my sister’s girlfriend that until we know what happened, I just need to continue with these performances. She’s so bossy, she scares me a little.”
Jack laughed a little. “She sounds like my ex. Never leaves room for argument. I salute her girlfriend for dealing with her.”
They shared a little laugh over that.
“How’s about this? I’ll hold onta your phone while you’re onstage. Then, if anything serious crops up, I’ll interrupt and get you to the airport. If they text and it’s not too bad, I’ll give you a thumbs up or something.”
“That’s…not a bad idea.”
“I can have good ideas sometimes,” Jack joked.
He stood and held out his hand to help Davey up. Davey made to dust himself off but grimaced. In his panic, he had forgotten that it had rained that morning and now his (and Jack’s) clothes had more mud than could have easily been cleaned off.
Jack saw him grimace and snapped his fingers. “I got an idea. Hang on.” He took Davey’s hand and led him down the street to a shop. They walked in and Jack greeted the man behind the till. “Hey, Archie. Mind if Davey goes round back to clean up?”
“No problem. It’s back here.”
“I’ll be back in five minutes,” Jack said before bolting out of the shop.
Davey washed his face and fixed his hair. Then he pursed his lips as he stared down at his muddy clothes.
There was frantic knocking at the door of the small bathroom. “Open up, Jacobs.” It was Jack. He opened the door and Jack handed him a plastic bag. “I keep spare clothes in my truck. Jeans may be a tad tight. But there’s a hoodie in there. That’s pretty baggy so it should be good.”
Davey’s gaze landed on Jack’s equally dirty clothes. Clothes that only got dirty because he got down to Davey’s level to comfort him.
“What about you?”
“Hey, I ain’t the one about to go on stage with my pretty voice.”
Davey said thanks and practically slammed the door on him, desperate to hide the pink on his cheeks.
He thought back to what Romeo had said earlier:
“Says the man that refuses to tell Jack how he feels despite knowing there’s a shared attraction.”
Davey just swore to himself. There were too many emotions to deal with today.
He changed. Jack was right; the jeans were slightly tight but the hoodie fit him well. (It also smelt like Jack. Not that Davey wanted to acknowledge that right now).
Jack walked him back to the stage and briefed the rest of the band on the situation so they would know why Davey may suddenly leave.
That performance was the most difficult one so far.
Davey struggled to look away from Jack, knowing that he had Davey’s phone in hand.
About three songs in, Davey saw Jack waving from the middle of the audience to get his attention.
His stomach dropped and he accidentally skipped a sentence in the song he was currently singing.
Then Jack smiled and gave him a thumbs up and the wave of relief that washed over Davey was so strong that it nearly knocked him over.
The rest of the set was a blur. He practically leapt off the stage at the end, rushing over to Jack.
He took back his phone and started reading the texts he’d received, desperately.
hi davey. ive just finished my shift and found where aba is
he was just doing his work at the warehouse and one of the other workers must have rushed the job bc he bumped into a pile of heavy boxes and it fell onto his leg
i know the dr looking after him. it’s a bad break but just a break. he’ll heal.
just make sure you call him, (kitty brought ima’s phone and food round an hr ago
hope your performance is going well. love you <3
Davey felt like he could breathe again.
“He’s okay.” His voice wobbled and he started to cry again.
“Aww, Dave. C’mere.” Jack wrapped him in another hug.
“Sorry, I’m being stupid but-”
“You was scared. If I got news that my mama was in hospital, I wouldn’t have been able to move, let alone perform like you just did. You’re stronger than you give yourself credit for, Davey.”
He sniffed and detached himself from Jack. “Thank you.”
“Don’t thank me yet. I got an idea that might properly calm you down.”
Davey’s mind was a flurry of emotion. “Oh?”
“You gotta wait till we get back to the farm.” He handed Davey the keys to his truck. “Why don’t you make a headstart and call your folks while I round up the rest o’ them?”
“Okay.”
The moment Davey started to walk, he dialled his mother’s number.
“Ima?”
“My son, I’m so sorry I didn’t call you earlier.”
“It’s okay. Les and Kath filled me in.”
“If Sarah doesn’t marry Katherine, you have to,” his mother told him.
“Ima, she’s a lesbian. Besides, Kitty loves you and Aba too much to leave us, even if she does - God forbid - break up with Sarah.”
“Well, she made us some pasta and brought it to us. The doctors have bandaged your Aba’s leg. He’s going to be just fine, thank God .”
“Can I talk to him?”
“He’s sleeping. The day has finally caught up with him.”
Davey reached the truck, taking a minute to open it and climb into the passenger seat. “Give him my love when he wakes up?”
“Of course.”
“I’ll call you in the morning and talk to him then if he’s awake.”
They talked for another ten minutes, his mother wanting an update on that day’s show since she had to miss the livestream.
“You don’t have to watch every performance.”
“You’re my son.” She didn’t elaborate. She didn’t have to.
They said their goodbyes and Davey closed his eyes.
Won’t hurt to rest for five minutes.
As normally happens in these situations, Davey woke up much later than anticipated. Someone was gently calling his name and shaking his shoulder.
“Davey? C’mon, wake up, you can sleep inside.”
Davey really had to stop being surprised about it being Jack.
“But your surprise…”
“You’re so tired, Davey. You musta been asleep a good forty minutes. Maybe more.”
Furrowing his brow, Davey slowly pointed out, “It only takes fifteen minutes to get to the farm.”
“I’ve been waiting here for twenty minutes. Thought you might wake up yourself.”
Davey sat up. There was a blanket on his lap. He touched it gently.
“I keep a spare blanket in the truck as well. I hafta take Crutchie to hospital sometimes and it’s a long trip. Kid falls asleep more often than not.”
“Oh.” He rubbed his eyes. “I’m awake.”
Jack laughed. “You wanna know that bad?”
“Blame the stressful day,” Davey said sweetly. “Please?”
Jack rolled his eyes fondly. “C’mon then.”
They got out of the truck and Jack made Davey wait as he dashed inside. He emerged with something bundled under his arm. Davey was lead around to the back of the house.
“I always wanted to move here. But when I was little, it was because the stars are easier to see.”
He dropped the load in his arms; it was two blankets. He put one on the ground and patted the space next to him. Once Davey was sat, he threw the other blanket over them and then lay down. Davey followed suit.
“I studied stars for years whenever I could. But when…when my mom was killed, it didn’t seem as amazing.”
“I’m sorry,” Davey said quietly, turning his head to look at Jack. “How old…”
“I was six. I didn’t find out what happened properly until I was eleven.” Jack sighed. “She taught me some constellations. Even though the magic kinda died with her, I still like to come out here and just watch.”
Davey smiled and looked back at the stars.
“Do you still remember any?”
Jack scoffed. “I know more now. I’ll show you.”
Time passed as Jack waved his hand about, pointing out the shapes the flaming balls of gas light years made.
“People say, since light travels pretty slow, that we’re just looking at the past. And they say that tryna scare others.”
“You don’t agree?”
“Nope,” Jack responded, popping the p. “We just spent an hour looking at ‘em. Yeah, loads of ‘em are dead. But they left a beautiful legacy, dontcha think?”
Davey breathed out slowly. “Wow. I think that’s a great way of looking at it.” A dash of light crossed the sky. “Is that a shooting star?”
“Well, technically, they’re meteors-” Davey gently shoved Jack who just laughed. “Yes, it’s a shooting star.”
Davey sighed and watched it cross the sky. It felt like he was in a story, this perfect moment, with his perfect guy.
“You gonna make a wish?”
He just nodded. There were a lot of wishes he wanted to come true:
His dad to get better soon.
His brother to forgive him.
His music career to properly take off.
But then he glanced at the man beside him, who’d gone above and beyond to help him that day.
I wish for everything to work out so I can be with Jack.
They stayed out there a little longer, silently watching the stars.
Chapter 8: Chapter 8
Chapter Text
Davey called his mother the next day and spoke to his father.
“We watched your live stream this morning,” he told Davey enthusiastically.
“Aba, you’re in hospital with a busted leg. Forget my silly songs for a few minutes.”
“How can I? My son is becoming a famous rockstar!”
Davey hid his face. “Aba!”
“It’s true!” his mother interjected. “Sarah was showing us how many more people were following your accounts.”
“On Instagram?” It was true. Since beginning these performances and posting images and clips, The Ersters Instagram had blown up. So had all their individual pages. “I have Instagram solely because you two don’t,” Davey joked. “Stay away.”
“Heya, Dave.”
Jack practically sauntered over to Davey, confidentiality putting an arm around his waist.
Upon noticing that Davey’s eyes had gone wide, his mother gasped. “Is that the boy?” she asked, her Polish so quick that Davey had to stand there blankly while his brain tried to catch up.
“Ima, he’s hardly a boy ,” Davey scoffed. “Be cool, please.”
His Aba laughed. “We’re cool! Just excited about you meeting your soulmate.”
“Aba! He isn’t my soulmate! Don’t say insane things like that in front of him.”
“Why? Does he understand Polish?”
“…No.”
“Sorry, didn’t mean to be nosy. I was just wondering if it’s your folks. Wanted to wish your dad a quick recovery.”
“Oh, he’s so sweet,” Esther cooed.
“Be. Cool.” Davey gave Jack a sweet smile. “Sorry, uh, yes. These are my parents, Esther and Meyer.”
Jack, who’d just come from working outside in the warm sun, tipped his dusty hat. “Pleasure to meetcha.” He pulled Davey in a little closer. “Your son is mighty talented.
“Oh, we know.” David wanted to crawl into a hole and die.
“Well, I should go. Talk to Smalls about…a thing.”
His mother rolled her eyes. “Fine, fine. Will you call after your performance tonight?”
“Obviously.”
“And don’t worry. We’ll talk to Les.”
Davey felt relieved. He would never admit how much Les’ words had stuck with him.
“I-”
“Care more about your stupid dream than our dad.”
“Thank you, Ima. Love you guys.”
He ended the call, right there. Once he pocketed his phone, he turned to look at Jack. Jack’s hand was still around his waist. Davey raised his eyebrow.
“What’s with the hand?”
“Why? Got a problem?”
“People will get the wrong idea about us,” Davey whispered. It was an awful idea. Really really bad. It didn’t stop him from leaning in.
“And what idea is that?” Jack leaned in as well.
“Don’t make me say it. You know.”
“Mm, I do know. Just wanna hear…you…say it.”
Davey’s eyes closed. He could feel Jack’s breath against his lips.
“Daaaaveeeeyyyy!”
He heard Jack groan before sharply pulling away.
Davey huffed, taking a moment before opening his eyes. “Yes, Racer?”
“Catch me!” That was all the warning Davey got before Race ran in and jumped into his arms.
“Oof!”
“I love you, you know that?”
Davey chuckled. “A reminder every now and then wouldn’t hurt. But also, what did I do this time?”
“I saw Specs and Romeo all cozy while they were working out there.”
“So that’s your doing.” Jack sounded impressed. “I’ve been trying to hint at it for a year.”
Davey dropped Race onto his feet. “Well, they needed a more…direct push.”
“You fixed me and Spot. You fixed Romeo and Specs. You’re awesome.”
“Is there a point here?”
“Mmm, I’m hungry.”
“Of course, you are.” Davey turned. “Spot! Feed your fiancé!”
“Coming!”
Race giggled. But before he could say anything, Davey put a finger over his lips and gave him a look.
“No. Do not make the joke.”
Thankfully, Spot arrived at that moment.
“Come on. I swear your stomach is a bottomless pit.”
Jack and Davey waited for the two to leave. It was Davey who spoke first.
“We need to work out…” He couldn’t finish the thought. Jack knew what he meant anyway.
“Look, I ain’t the sharpest tool in the shed but…there’s something here. I don’t want it to seem like I’m taking advantage of your state since your dad-”
“Oh no! I promise, it doesn’t.” They both stood there a moment. “Just…you looking after me since yesterday. The stargazing.” Davey took a deep breath and flopped back onto the couch. “I like you. But we have our own lives.”
“Don’t mean we can’t have fun.”
Davey paused. One half of him knew he was ready for something more than meaningless fun. The other half of him didn’t want to let this opportunity slip by.
Jack must have seen his hesitation. “It’s all up to you. But I won’t be saying no.” Jack winked and walked out the room with as much swagger as he walked in with.
Davey just sighed.
Les apologised to him that night.
After calling and checking in on his parents, Davey had called his sister.
Katherine and Sarah sat either side of Les, both looking at him expectantly.
“I’m sorry.” Sarah nudged him. “For the comment I made yesterday,” Les elaborated. “And ending the call on you.”
“It’s okay. I promise. You were just worried.”
“Still shouldn’t have said that. We’ve been watching all your performances. You’re so good at it.”
Davey blinked. He hadn’t expected a compliment.
“Thanks.”
Sarah quickly ushered Les off to bed after that.
“So, how’s Santa Fe?”
“It’s great. I’m gonna miss the guys here when I leave.”
“Any guy in particular?” Sarah wiggled her eyebrows. When Kath gave her a peculiar look, she chuckled. “Oh! You haven’t told her?”
“First of all, she’s your girlfriend. Second of all, tell her what?”
“About your crush?” Davey squeaked and Katherine gasped. Sarah elaborated. “Our David has a thing for Spot’s brother. But David is so caught up in ‘he lives in Santa Fe, I don’t’ that he won’t do anything about it.”
“Actually…” He laid bare the situation with Jack.
“Do it.” Surprisingly, this statement came from Katherine. “Look, I still talk to my ex. He’s in a real similar situation. I told him the same thing yesterday. If you have a shot of happiness, take it. Even if it will only last a little while, the memory will make you smile for years.”
“I know.”
Sarah frowned. “Then why won’t you do it.”
“Because…”
Her eyes widened. “You’re in love with him.” She kept talking over his spluttering. “And you’re scared of getting a taste of it only to know you’re going to lose it.”
David swallowed. “Yes.”
“Remember how Sarah and I didn’t think it would work? How my father threatened to disown me when he realised I was dating a girl?”
“Yeah?”
“You told us to meet with him together. And he saw how good we are for each other and I didn’t have to choose between love and family.”
Rubbing his hands over his face, Davey sighed. “I’m really tired, Kath. Point?”
“My point? If this love is real, it will work out.” Sarah kissed her and Davey melted. “I promise.”
The next day, Davey spent most of his time with his nose in his notebook.
In the night, he’d been hit with a flare of inspiration and he was determined to work until that inspiration ran dry.
And, maybe, just a little, he was hiding from Jack.
He wasn’t sure what to do and instead of thinking it through, he put all his focus on writing songs.
Jack seemed to respect Davey’s withdrawal. He didn’t instigate conversations, didn’t sit next to him, didn’t push.
When they arrived in town, Davey ducked away to help Romeo with his stall again. He tried, anyway.
When he noticed how distracted Davey was, Romeo told him to go take a break before his performance.
So Davey just wandered down the street and ended up in the same shop he had cleaned up in a few days prior.
“Hi, can I help you?”
“Oh. Hi. It’s…Archie, right?”
“Yup. And your Jack’s fella, yeah?”
Davey blinked. “His… fella?”
“Sorry, didn’t mean to make assumptions but I’ve never seen Jack so close to someone since he was with his ex.”
“You…you knew his ex?”
“Who here didn’t?” Archie laughed. “We all thought they were destined to be together. But then you came into my shop with Jack and I realised that however much he loved her, he loves you more.”
Davey sighed heavily. Archie let him behind the counter and he collapsed into the chair that was there.
“I want to be…his. But we both know it won’t last. It’s a thing with him and his brother. His life is here. Mine…isn’t.”
They fell silent as someone approached the counter. Davey just watched Archie deal with his customer and only spoke when the shop was empty once more.
“Everyone’s telling me to go for it. But then I don’t want to have to leave it.”
Archie shrugged. “Only you know what’s right.”
Davey groaned.
“Sorry, I can’t be of more help.”
“No, no. This helps. Having someone to talk at- to.”
Archie chuckled. “Happy to help. Though I will see, if he’s the one, hold on to him. There’s too much chaos in the world to let go of someone true.”
It was like the world’s biggest light bulb suddenly illuminated in Davey’s mind.
“That’s it. That’s it!” He ignored Archie’s stare of confusion, standing abruptly to pull his notebook out of his back pocket. He scribbled down the idea before he could forget. “Archie, I could kiss you!”
“I…you’re welcome. I think.”
“Thank you, thank you, thank you!” Davey shoved his notebook back into his pocket and quickly hugged Archie. “I need to find Jack!”
In an impressive fit of energy, Davey jumped over the counter. It would have been a clean jump but his jumper hit the charity jar sitting there. Thankfully, it was made of plastic so it didn’t shatter upon impact. The money clattered to the ground.
“Go find Jack. Maniac.”
Davey beamed at Archie, slapping twenty dollars on the counter. “Half for you, hlaf for the jar,” he yelled as he ran out of the door.
Halfway down the road, Davey crashed into none other than Jack Kelly.
“Whoa, hold up. Where’s the fire?” Davey hugged Jack. “What happened, Dave?”
“Yes.” Jack pulled away, looking confused. “Yes, there’s something here. And I want to try.”
Jack realised what Davey was talking about. “For sure?”
“For sure. I want this. You.”
Jack hugged him again. He whispered in something that sounded like Spanish.
But before Davey could ask what he said, he heard Smalls calling him.
“Davey! Hurry up, the show’s going to start in ten minutes!”
“Oh. Right, I-”
Jack let him go. “Go. I’ll have another surprise for you later.”
Davey grinned. He pressed a quick kiss to Jack’s cheek and ran to the stage, excited to perform and even more excited for the performance to be over.
Chapter 9: Chapter 9
Chapter Text
“What’s with the stupid grin you’ve had on your face all night?” Smalls asked, idly scrolling through her phone after the show.
“What stupid grin?” Davey asked, trying to get rid of said stupid grin (unsuccessfully).
“The one you're trying to hide,” was her dry response.
Davey was saved from responding by Jack appearing, flanked by Albert, Charlie, Romeo and Specs. The latter two were holding hands, sharing the same kind of stupid grins that was on Davey’s face.
“You have no idea how good it is to see you together,” Davey told them, delighting in how their smiles grew wider.
Specs kissed Romeo sweetly on the cheek. “It feels amazing.”
Smalls pulled a face. “Can we go now? Or do you all need more time to be idiots?”
“Aww.” Spot and Race approached, arms around each other’s waists. Spot was grinning like the Cheshire Cat. “Feeling jealous?”
“Never.”
They all started making their way to the vehicles, chatting amongst themselves. Jack fell into step besides Davey.
“Are you gonna tell me what the surprise is?” Davey whispered, keeping an eye on the group. It’s not that he wanted to keep his potential relationship a secret. He’d just rather keep it to themselves for a little while.
“No way. That defeats the point of it being a surprise.”
The group got into the vehicles and Jack and Davey spent the entire ride glancing at each other and laughing silently when they happened to make eye contact.
Everyone was eager to get inside.
“Make sure you don’t stay up too late,” Jack told his boys who all mockingly saluted him.
“Sure thing, Dad.”
“Stop that.”
They just laughed at his frustration as they all walked inside. Jack ducked in after them to get the blankets.
“Why don’t you go get set up while I grab the surprise?”
Davey quirked his brow but nodded, doing as Jack asked and waiting patiently for the other to appear.
He blinked in surprise as Jack rounded the corner with a guitar in hand.
“Don’t look so surprised,” he laughed. “I told you I played.”
“I just…I didn’t know you had your own guitar.”
Jack settled onto the blanket next to him. “It’s been a while since I played in front of anyone so…be nice?” He tweaked at the strings, making sure it was tuned before he softly began to strum.
It was a simple melody: slow and sleepy. What Davey didn’t expect was for Jack to start singing.
His voice was soft and crooning. It cracked a little, indicative of how long it had been since he last sang properly. It took a moment for Davey’s brain to catch up and realise that Jack was singing in what sounded like Spanish.
It didn’t matter much what he was singing; Davey was enamoured.
In reality, the moment couldn’t have lasted more than two minutes. But to Davey, it felt like a lifetime flew by, listening to the gentle singing and soft melody of the guitar.
The song ended and Jack looked a little sheepish. “Was just a little song my mom used to sing for me when I was a kid. You said you wanted to hear me play so…”
It was like every other word out of Jack’s mouth made him fall harder.
“It’s beautiful.” Jack grinned, putting the guitar aside and taking both of Davey’s hands into his own.
“Are you sure about this, Dave? That you wanna try? I don’t you to feel forced into-”
Davey rolled his eyes and closed the distance, quickly silencing Jack with a swift kiss. “That enough proof?”
The only reaction Jack could muster was moving his hands to Davey’s back and pulling him in for a deeper kiss. Davey looped his arms over Jack’s shoulders, his fingers teasing into the soft hair on the back of Jack’s head.
It was like stars aligned as they kissed. A small part of Davey’s brain imagined it as two puzzle pieces slotting together.
They finally pulled back, breathless. Yet they held on as if the other would disappear if they let go for even a second.
Jack’s pupils were blown wide.
Then he suddenly swore under his breath. “Charlie’s using my room while you lot are here.”
It took a moment for Davey to come up with a solution. “It’s only me in the room I’m using.” His heart nearly exploded out of his chest when Jack grabbed his hand and his guitar. Davey swept up the blankets in his free hand and they rushed inside.
They quickly slipped past the living room where Albert was asleep on one of the couches and Romeo and Specs were curled up together on the mattress.
Jack dumped his guitar on the other couch unceremoniously and indicated for Davey to do the same with the blankets.
“You’re gonna wake them up,” Davey whispered, putting the blankets down slowly.
“You have no idea how loud they are on normal nights,” Jack teased but he was careful to be quiet as they ducked into the hall and made their way to Davey’s room.
Davey felt the bed shift and groaned when he noticed it was still dark out.
“Where you going?” he mumbled, blindly reaching out to where Jack had been moments before.
“Someone’s gotta look after all that land out there, handsome.”
“Can’t the boys do it? And you stay?”
He felt a kiss on his forehead. “Sorry, Dave. I promise we can cuddle plenty tonight, ‘kay?”
Davey huffed and Jack must have taken that as permission to leave.
A lazy smile bloomed on Davey’s face as he thought of the night before, how perfect it had been.
He was reminded of what Katherine had told him the other day: “If this love is real, it will work out.”
Davey let that thought comfort him back to sleep for a little longer.
When he next opened his eyes, the sun had made its way halfway up the sky.
He shot his parents a text to see if they were awake to talk. Once he realised he wasn’t getting an answer yet, he stretched like a cat that had been napping languidly in the sun.
His gaze drifted around the room and he noticed Jack’s blue shirt tossed at the end of the bed. Sitting up and looking out of the window told him that Jack had got some more work-friendly clothes from his room.
With a mischievous smile, he got up, pulling the shirt over his head. He dug around his bags for the shorts he had brought with him.
Once he was dressed, he made his way to the kitchen, deciding to ease Jack’s workload by making breakfast,
He put on some music and got started on breakfast, singing along absentmindedly.
When Race walked into the room and squawked, “Is that Jack’s shirt!?” he just winked, continuing his little performance.
He got a similar reaction when Smalls appeared. Spot’s was probably the most amusing reaction of the band; when he realised what Davey was wearing, his expression was a mixture of bewilderment but also smugness.
As the farm hands wandered in, they yelped and started yelling at each other about bets and relatively large amounts of money that Albert had on the line. Charlie, who’d been in the dining room the whole damn, was cackling.
Obviously, Jack’s reaction was his favourite.
When he heard Jack telling the boys off for making such a commotion, Davey purposely skipped through his playlist to find a provocative song. He started to sing along, making a show of dancing along as he put the last of the meal together.
He spun around, about to go into the other room to ask someone to help him bring breakfast out. Jack was stood in the door, however, and he ended up in his strong arms.
“You done this on purpose.” It wasn’t a question. Davey answered anyway.
“No(!) Really(!?)”
Jack raised an eyebrow at the sarcasm. “Behave.” He kissed Davey lightly, taking him by the hand and leading him into the dining room. “Someone bring the breakfast in. Dave’s done more than enough this morning.” As Albert and Race went into the kitchen, Davey tried to go to his normal seat, next to Charlie. “Where d’ya think you’re going?”
Davey shot Jack a cheeky smile. “To my seat.”
“That’s not your seat anymore. ‘Specially when youse lookin’ like that.” He directed Davey to the seat next to him.
Smalls pretended to gag but they ignored it.
As they all ate, Davey looked around the table.
Romeo and Specs were in a peaceful silence, the former slumped against the other as they ate. Smalls and Albert were talking animatedly to each other, occasionally remembering to actually have a bite. Race was practically on Spot’s lap, chattering away about wedding plans while Spot just listened fondly.
Jack’s hand weaselled its way into Davey’s.
All was right in their little world.
Chapter 10: Chapter 10
Chapter Text
Within a few more days, Meyer was sent home. He was bandaged up but it didn’t break his spirit.
“So long as I am careful, I’ll be better and good as new by Chanukah!”
That was the day that Davey broke the news that he and Jack were together.
“We need to meet him!” his mother had exclaimed.
“You already met him when you guys were talking about him in Polish in front of him.”
Esther clicked her tongue. “Properly. I need to hug my son’s soulmate.”
“Ima, you can’t keep saying that.”
Though, somewhere deep in his heart, he felt his mother was right. That Jack was his soulmate. But he was not going to admit it so early into their relationship.
Apart from navigating life in a relationship and dodging the questions of his nosy parents, David had something else going for him.
The band’s reputation had exploded when a national reporter appeared for the last week of the festival and gave the band a glowing review.
The followers on The Ersters’ Instagram page had creeped into the thousands. The follower count on each of their individual pages weren’t far behind.
Smalls encouraged them all to post something promoting the final few shows. “If we can reel enough people in, we’ll hit two thousand on the band account in no time.”
Davey opted for doing a short Instagram live in the morning, to answer a few questions. Jack had an awful habit of appearing whenever he decided to do one, resting his chin on Davey’s shoulder and occasionally turning his head to kiss Davey’s cheek.
The domesticity of it was nice (and all the gasping comments fawning over them was just good publicity).
All the photos the band posted were now taken by Albert who now had his own Instagram page. The influence of being associated with the pictures taken of the band gave him a few hundred followers within a week of making the account.
Slowly, but surely, the festival was approaching the end.
Meaning Jack and Davey had to have a frankly scary conversation.
The night after the third last day, as they were cuddled together, it was Davey that finally said something.
“I want us to work.”
Jack sighed. Obviously he’d known this conversation was coming.
“Me too…” It was silent for a long moment. “I wouldn’t have tried to start this if you didn’t tell me to.”
Davey furrowed his brow. “I didn’t say anything.”
Jack chuckled. “Remember when you said I had to do something selfish?”
Davey sat up. “And you chose me?”
“Of course. I chose you then and I’d choose you forever.”
Laughing, Davey gently threw a pillow at Jack’s face.
“You’re so cheesy.”
The pillow was tossed back and forth until they calmed down and lay back down, holding each other close.
“We’ll work it out, Dave. I know we will.”
Davey was mildly confused when he woke up.
Eyes still closed, he reached to the side to find Jack’s side of the bed cold and empty. When he opened his eyes, the sun was still relatively low in the sky so it wasn’t early enough for him to wake up naturally.
He sat up, wondering why he woke up when his ears finally adjusted and made out the sound of a heated conversation.
Already wearing some sweatpants, Davey grabbed a hoodie (Jack’s) that had been thrown over the end of the bed and made his way to the living room.
He walked into Spot and Jack practically snarling at each other.
Reminiscent of Jack the first day, Charlie stood between them. He was awkwardly trying to lean on his crutch as his arms were outstretched to keep the brothers apart.
Davey rushed forward, the argument going over his head almost literally as he helped Charlie sit down.
Once he was sure the young man was okay, he stood and turned his attention to Jack and Spot.
“…right to do that!”
Spot’s voice was a mixture of anger and pleading. “You’re my brother! I was just looking out for you!”
“My brother! Not my parent! And, I’m twenty three: fully capable of looking after myself, thank you.”
“Mama was basically sick with worry about yo-”
“When I left!” Jack snapped. “I know. Of course, I know. But once she realised I was doing fine, she gave me her blessing. She didn’t try to force me back to a place I don’t belong.”
Scoffing, Spot rebuked, “Better New York than this dingy farm in the middle of nowhere!”
Jack snarled and pushed his brother. “This is my home.”
“No, your home is in New York. With Mama and me and-”
“And what? Hmm? Oh yes, that’s right, the man you manipulated into loving me!”
Davey blinked. “I beg your pardon?”
Jack jutted his chin towards Davey. “Go on, Sean. Tell your best friend what you told me.”
Spot looked at everything except Jack and Davey.
As if he had expected it, Jack sneered. “Yeah, thought so.” He turned to Davey and his expression softened a touch. “I’ll tell you. Spot was trying to use you to lure me back to New York.”
Davey blinked. “I’m sorry, what?”
Spot butted in, as if to defend himself. “I was just trying to help everyone, Davey. You were finally looking for commitment. Race wanted to know Jack. Mama, though she’d never admit it, missed her favourite son.”
“And what about me, Spot?” Jack interrupted. “Did my feelings ever cross your mind during this scheming?”
They were all silent as they heard footsteps down the hall. The fight had finally awoken the other half of the band. Smalls and Race silently stood in the frame of the door to the hall.
“What,” Davey said slowly, putting a hand on Jack’s arm, “did you do, Spot?”
Admittedly, all the eyes on him made Spot look like a cornered animal in fight or flight mode.
“I talked you up to Jack. When we got back in contact six months ago. I knew you’d like him. So I told him all about you and realised he’d like you too.”
Race walked forward, his eyes full of water, staring at his fiancé in disbelief. “Spotty…”
“I just thought…it’d help Davey find love…and bring my brother home…” He swallowed deeply and the small part of Davey that wasn’t thrumming with anger saw the guilt in Spot’s expression. “But then Davey told me to back off and I saw how much good you were doing here…and how happy you are. I was going to tell you and apologise sooner but then you actually fell in love with each other. I was conflicted.”
“So you didn’t say anything,” Davey whispered, his anger giving out to betrayal.
Spot nodded. He looked towards Smalls. Then Davey. He was avoiding looking at Race or Jack.
“The guilt was too much. And I thought maybe it wouldn’t matter too much. So I got up when I heard Jack getting up this morning and told him. I only wanted what was best for you both.”
Race’s breath hitched and Charlie beckoned him over to the couch. Rushing past Spot, Race joined Charlie, pointedly not listening to Spot gently calling his name.
Davey glanced towards Smalls who headed straight out of the front door, no doubt to get Romeo, Specs and Albert.
“So,” Jack’s voice was on the edge of even, “you not only tried to trick me back to a place I don’t want to be. But you also manipulated your best friend .”
“That makes me sound evil.”
“Well, the last person I knew who manipulated people killed my mother and made me, a kid, believe I was to blame till he was sent to jail.” Feigning thoughtfulness, Jack stroked his chin. “I wonder who that was. Oh right!” He snapped his finger and if they were in a cartoon, David wouldn’t have been surprised if a lightbulb had appeared over his head. “It was my fucking father.”
Spot’s gaze was hard. “Don’t compare me to him. What your father did-”
“Was no better than what you just admitted to!” Davey yelled, stepping forward. “How dare you. Jack’s right. You used me. I was nothing more than bait to bring him back to the city.”
“It’s not like that, Davey.”
“That’s what it feels like. It feels like, at least for the last few years, you kept me around for no other reason than a means to an end.”
Spot huffed in desperate frustration. “You’re my best friend.”
It was Davey’s turn to swallow the lump in his throat. “My Aba went to hospital. I stayed because of Jack. Because you manipulated our feelings.”
“You’re honestly telling me that if I hadn’t talked you up to each other, you wouldn’t have fallen anyways?” Spot reasoned.
Jack and Davey shared a look.
“We’ll never know,” Jack forced out. “Because if you didn’t tell me about Davey and his dream about the band, I never would have invited you guys to fill in for the original band.”
Albert rushed in, followed by Smalls and then Romeo and Specs. All four looked hostilely towards Spot. Albert joined Charlie and Race on the couch. Smalls stayed between the other two.
No one really spoke apart from the murmuring amongst the three on the couch.
Then Jack said something that made Davey’s heart drop and shatter.
“I need you to all leave.”
Spot took a step forward but Jack turned away, opting to completely ignore him. Instead he took Davey’s hands in his own and held them to his chest.
“I’m sorry, Davey. But…I don’t want to see him. And…”
Davey hated that he understood what Jack was trying to say. He pulled a hand free to cup Jack’s cheek, wiping away the stray tear that had fallen with his thumb. “It’s okay, Jackie. I get it.”
The following silence was so heavy, it nearly brought Davey to his knees.
Smalls eventually broke it. “We’ll go get packed up.” She walked over to Race and pulled him up, escorting him to the room she had been staying in.
Spot had seemingly realised that nothing he said was going to be acknowledged. He waited for the two to disappear into the room before he went to the room he and Race had been sharing.
“We’ll bring the car and truck ‘round the front.” Romeo took his boyfriend’s hand and took him outside.
Albert and Crutchie just sat together on the couch, whispering and trying to give Jack and Davey their moment together.
“I wanted us to work,” Davey admitted, his voice so hushed, he scarcely knew if he’d actually spoken.
“Me too.”
Davey moved his hand back to Jack’s and they just leaned forward, foreheads pressed together, hands between their chests, over their hearts. And they just soaked up their last moments together.
Davey, who’d endured the nickname Walking Mouth since college, was finally lost for words. His tongue felt as heavy as lead.
It was Jack that broke the silence. “I’ll still be there. Tonight and tomorrow.”
“Why?” Davey’s voice cracked and he just squeezed his eyes tighter to try and keep his tears at bay.
“Can’t miss any opportunity to see my favourite celebrity perform live.” Jack started chuckling and, despite the knife in his heart, Davey felt a small snicker escape his own lips. Jack’s laugh had always been contagious.
The list of things he was going to miss was just steadily getting longer.
“If I could just…” Jack finally pulled away, still holding Davey’s hands but now raking his eyes over him. “If there was a way I could grab hold of something to make time… stop. Just so’s I could keep looking at you. So’s you wouldn’t have to leave me.”
It was so stupidly cheesy, so stupidly Jack, that Davey couldn’t help the little snort that escaped him.
Trying to be as cheesy as the man in front of him, Davey replied, “You snuck up on me, Jack Kelly. Never saw it coming.”
Jack realised what Davey was trying to do and buried his face in the crook of Davey’s shoulder to laugh. (Neither spoke about how that shoulder was wet when he eventually pulled away).
Finally, Davey let go.
“I should go…pack.”
“Yeah…”
Davey took a few steps backwards, every inch of him not wanting to let Jack out of his sight. He steeled himself and turned away, walking down the hall to his room.
When he re-emerged, bags packed, Jack was gone.
It wasn’t until Specs and Romeo had driven them halfway to town that Davey realised he was still wearing Jack’s hoodie.
When they arrived in town, Archie and some of his friends offered up their spare rooms to the band.
Race refused to stay with Spot. Or even talk to Spot.
Not that Smalls or Davey were in any rush to talk to him either.
That performance was probably their worst one yet. It wasn’t like the quality of their music was bad by any means. But none of their hearts were in it. Davey was sure they’d all rather be sitting in the silence of their temporary rooms.
Then he saw Jack. Right at the back of the crowd.
He’d brought his guitar with him and was strumming along to the songs whenever he knew the melody. Their eyes locked for just a second and the memory of the day they met flared in Davey’s mind’s eye.
Jack snorted. “I’ll stick to guys for a while. Last gal I dated? I turned her into a lesbian.”
Davey burst into laughter, ignoring the fluttering in his heart. “Ouch. Can’t relate. I gave a guy his gay awakening.”
Another snort. “I don’t doubt it. Those pretty eyes are enough to make me have another bi crisis.”
Mouth dry, Davey slowly asked. “You flirt like this with everyone?”
Jack kept his gaze fixed on the road but he had a satisfied smile on his face. “You know your eyes sparkle like the stars?”
The weight of the notebook and the song Davey had finished a week ago was suddenly more apparent.
The moment the show wrapped up, Davey confronted Spot.
“Do you feel bad?”
Spot blinked. “Wha- of course I do.”
Davey pulled out the notebook, ripped out the relevant pages and thrust them at Spot. “I need you to learn this by tomorrow. Think you can manage it?”
Spot nodded mutely before leaving.
Davey then cornered Smalls and Race before they could leave as well. He told them his plan.
Race hugged him. “I sure hope this works, Davey.”
“Me too, Racer.”
Chapter 11: Chapter 11
Notes:
Short chapter but sweet. The song Davey sings is the song that inspired this fic: Chaos sung by Ben Fankhauser
Chapter Text
It was five minutes before the final show. Davey couldn’t see Jack anywhere.
“What if he doesn’t show?” Davey murmured to Race, who could only purse his lips in response.
“He will. My brother doesn’t lie.”
Race tensed up next to him.
“That makes one of you.”
“Tony, please.”
Race didn’t bother to look at his fiancé. “You better hope that this works.”
They stepped up onto the stage and began their final performance.
Only half of Davey’s attention was on his singing. He was too busy trying to find Jack in the huge crowd that had gathered. Smalls had been right, all their promoting on Instagram had done a world of good. They had never performed in front of so many people before.
Unfortunately, it made finding the man they were looking for much more difficult.
That was until Smalls moved forward to gently nudge Davey. She directed his gaze to the centre of the crowd.
There was Jack, guitar on his back, clapping along with the crowd, a sad smile on his face.
Davey kept singing through the pounding of his heart. Anything could go wrong if he tried this.
And yet, for a chance with Jack? It would be worth the shot.
So instead of their usual last song, Davey took a deep breath and announced, “This last song is a new one I wrote, dedicated to the man who invited us to perform at this festival. Jack…thank you.”
Davey closed his eyes as the band began to play a melody he’d technically never heard before. Though, somehow, it was more familiar than anything he’d ever sung before.
“Perfect mass that shoots at night. A thousand tiny specks of light, go streaking 'cross, the summer sky.”
He forced his eyes open and was met with Jack looking at him in shock.
Unaware if it was good or bad, Davey’s voice wavered slightly as he kept singing.
“Shooting stars, they fall from grace. Hurtle blind through outer space. There's gotta be some reason why.”
He imagined them under the stars that first night, when Jack had dedicated his day to making him feel better. Giving up his only set of clean clothes, checking Davey’s messages so he could still perform and stay up-to-date on his father’s condition. Davey felt like he’d be a fool to let that go over the brothers’ feud.
“All around the heavens slowly start to fall. They go tumbling through a universe that makes no sense at all!”
His mind then reminded him what Archie had told him the other week: “if he’s the one, hold on to him. There’s too much chaos in the world to let go of someone true.”
Davey kept singing.
“Yeah, the world's a mess. It's chaotic and random, I couldn't care less. 'Cause I found something true, in the intricate chaos of you.”
Davey opened his eyes to a smiling crowd. And in the centre of it all, Jack was staring at him in what looked like awe. It was just the encouragement he needed to keep singing.
“All this cosmic energy, is swirling through infinity. A mystery I can't explain. But the bigger secret lies, in those supernova eyes. And all the worlds that they contain.”
Davey felt their short relationship swirl through him. The nerves, the bubbles, the utter joy that filled him whenever Jack had held him close.
“There are forces that I'll never understand. But it doesn't seem to matter any time you take my hand.”
As he launched into the chorus again, some of the crowd also sang along.
“Yeah, the world's a mess. It's chaotic and random, I couldn't care less. 'Cause I found something true. In the intricate chaos of you.”
Davey closed his eyes tight, a little pit of fear that Jack would leave. Would reject him. The music was so loud suddenly, he could practically hear the drum banging in his ear.
He breathed a little, imagining him and Jack under the stars, Jack playing the very guitar on his back right now and singing as Davey watched him, mesmerised.
“You lie by my side as the heavens rush past. I feel like I'm falling impossibly fast. In a world full of madness that won't ever cease, somehow I found my place of peace.”
He forced his eyes open and they refocused on Jack who was moving forward. He’d pulled his guitar in front of his chest and was intently watching Spot, slowly starting to play the tune himself. As Davey ploughed on, he noticed the small smile bloom on Jack’s features.
His own face mirrored it.
“So the world keeps spinning on, as the day begins to dawn. Your eyes meet mine in the space between. Time slows down for just a while. In a single simple smile I finally see what it all might mean.”
Jack was just in front of the stage now.
A thrill shot through Davey’s spine as he began to climb the short steps up.
“Hold me close beneath the brilliant skies above. We'll go tumbling through the contradicting senselessness of love.”
As the chorus began one last time, Jack made it onto the stage, now confidently strumming the simple melody.
All of Davey’s attention was on him. All of his attention was on Davey.
“Yeah, the world's a mess. It's chaotic and random, I couldn't care less. 'Cause I found something true. Yes, I found something true, in the intricate chaos of you.”
The music faded out and the last chords rang out over the crowd.
It was incredible how silent such a large gathering could be.
Jack carefully took his guitar off, handing it to Smalls, who’d stepped forward for that purpose.
And then he kissed Davey.
The crowd practically exploded.
Davey melted into the kiss, his arms around Jack’s waist to keep him close.
Someone took the microphone from his hand and he used that opportunity to press Jack ever closer.
Jack was doing the same, holding Davey right to his heart.
Neither paid the cheering crowd and flashing press cameras any mind.
They pulled back, mostly for air, beaming.
“Dave…you’re just… wow.”
Davey chuckled. “Good ‘wow’?”
“Great ‘wow’,” Jack confirmed, kissing him again lightly. “We’ll make it work.”
If Davey smiled any wider, he feared his face would split.
Someone cried out for an encore and it quickly became a chant.
“Looks like you’ve written a hit,” Jack laughed, looking out at the crowd, his arm around Davey’s waist.
“What d’ya say, Jackie? Got one more in you?”
Jack responded by taking his guitar back and winking.
Chapter 12: Epilogue
Notes:
This chapter is 5K words by itself and also the last chapter of this fic.
I hope you enjoy and thank you for all the kind comments <3
Chapter Text
Perfect mass that shoots at night
A thousand tiny specs of light
Go streaking ‘cross
The summer sky
“Davey, my son . You said you’d be back for Chanukah.”
“My sweet Ima, Chanukah isn’t for ages. We’re coming back the week before.”
His mother huffed. But there was no malice or hurt in her tone at all. “Both of you?”
“Yup!” Jack affirmed from across the room. “Babe, have you seen my hoodie?”
“Is it the one I’m wearing?” Davey replied casually.
Jack’s groan was response enough. “Davey, stop stealing my clothes.”
“What am I supposed to wear then?”
“ Your clothes?!”
Esther laughed. “Don’t tease him, David.”
Davey pretended to be exasperated. “He knew what he was getting into when he started dating me.
“This wasn’t in the contract.”
“The fine print, Jackie. Always read the fine print.” Ignoring the continued grumblings of his boyfriend, Davey turned back to the facetime call. “Where’s Les? He didn’t tell me what he got in his English test last week.”
“B plus, bitch!”
“LES!” Davey, Esther and Mayer yelled simultaneously. The cheeky boy cackled and even over the phone, Davey could hear the pounding of his feet out of the room.
“I’ll be right back,” his mother sighed. “Talk to your father.” She handed the phone off and Davey snickered, knowing she was going after Les.
“David! How’s the fame treating you?”
Since the debut of his new song, Chaos, (and the kiss onstage with Jack), people had been calling, texting, and emailing him. The Ersters had suddenly become a hot commodity. Davey was convinced his phone would explode in his hand the first day.
“It’s exhausting. We’re doing three over the phone interviews next week alone.”
“I’m so proud of you for sticking to it,” Mayer told him, smiling. “We all are.”
“Thank you, Aba.” He stepped back to start hanging his clothes in the space Jack had just made for him in the wardrobe. “Have Sarah or Kitty swung by my apartment yet? I asked if they could send me some things I’m going to need if I’m stay in Santa Fe for longer.”
“Sarah said on the phone that she would pick it up after her shift today.”
Jack came over and nudged him. “Kitty?”
“Oh, it’s my sister’s girlfriend. We normally tend to call her Kitty instead of…her name.”
Jack chuckled. “‘S fair. I never call my ex by her name either.”
That lit a lightbulb in Davey’s mind. “Have you called her yet? You said you would.”
Eyes widening, Jack fumbled with his phone. As he walked out the room, Davey heard him greet his ex-girlfriend. “Heya, Ace. I got some news.”
“He talks to his ex?” Mayer saud. When Davey looked over to his phone, he saw the worry in his father’s creased brow.
“It’s okay, Aba. She’s a lesbian, they decided to stay friends once she realised.”
“Just making sure.”
Davey laughed. “Aba, you worry too much.”
His father gave him a reproachful look. “You do not understand, may never understand, how I worry for you. You had one relationship and even that was half hearted.” Davey had never seen his father look so sad. “We just watched you have fling after meaningless fling. You don’t know heartbreak. And now you're throwing yourself into this so seriously.”
“Aba. I trust Jack with all my heart.”
“Therein lies the problem. If he breaks your heart, I fear it may destroy you. And my own heart couldn’t handle that.”
Davey sighed. “One: I think if Jack does that, Sarah and Kath would murder him. Two: we’re both in this for the long run. I know it in my heart.”
Mayer cracked a smile. “Okay. I trust you.” He paused. “And you’re wrong. If this boy hurts you, your mother and I will kill him long before Sarah and Katherine can get to him.”
Davey burst into laughter just as Jack wandered back into the room. “Hey, babe. The boys are gonna be back inside soon so I’m gonna get food started. Want anything specific?”
Jack kissed him and Davey hummed into it. “Mm, whatever’s fine. I’m not too hungry.”
“How’s about I make you light sandwiches for later then? In case you get hungry before lunch?”
“You’re so sweet, Jackie.”
Jack winked. “Hi, Davey’s dad. Bye, Davey’s dad.”
Davey rolled his eyes fondly and saw his father smiling. “What?”
“You’re making a good choice wih him?”
“You realised that from a minute long interaction?”
His father just smiled. “I’ll give your mother your love.”
Davey made quick work of tidying his clothes into the wardrobe and joined his boyfriend in the kitchen.
Shooting stars, they fall from grace
Hurtle blind through outer space
There’s gotta be some reason why
Jack grinned at him from the other side of the glass of the recording booth.
Davey knew his smile could be heard in his singing. That’s why he wanted Jack to come with him.
It was disconcerting having the music prerecorded and singing over it. They had recorded a version of it all together but the studio that wanted to release the song wanted each bit recorded separately for post editing.
Davey was the last one of the group to record.
He was admittedly scared.
Chaos had been extremely well received. Its popularity soared after Davey (and Jack, at Davey’s insistence) had done a phone interview telling the basic story behind the song.
This was it. Once the song was released, the band would truly start going somewhere.
Before recording, Davey had voiced his concerns to his boyfriend. Jack had sat him down, gave him water and told him, “You’re going to be amazing. People love the song. People love the band. People love you. Not as much as me, of course.”
Once Davey had started laughing, Jack had kissed his cheek.
“I believe in you, mi estrella.”
So as Davey sang, he kept his eyes on the man who’d inspired him to write the song in the first place.
Jack held his gaze, the smile never fading.
And as Davey sang those lyrics he’d painstakingly wrote not too long ago, his heart was warm with love.
All around the heavens slowly start to fall
They go tumbling through a universe that makes no sense at all
“My parents already love you.”
“It’s one thing talking briefly over the phone,” Jack reasoned, straightening his shirt for the sixth time in a minute. “It’s another to meet them face to face and to spend an important religious holiday with them.”
Davey raised an eyebrow. “You said you normally celebrate Chanukah with Albert.”
“Yeah. I celebrated all the holidays. That’s what I get for having such a diverse workforce.” Davey nudged him and he chuckled nervously. “But we don’t entirely know what we’re doing back on the farm. I don’t want to accidentally offend anyone.”
Davey kissed him. “It’ll be fine.”
Jack took a deep breath. Before he could freak out again, Davey knocked the door.
The door opened a little too quickly (Davey wondered how long his mother had been waiting by the door).
“David!” She engulfed her son in a warm hug. “I missed you so much, my son. My baby is home. I’m so happy.”
“Ima, I’m not a baby.”
“You will always be my baby.” She eventually let go and turned to Jack who looked ready to flee. “It’s a pleasure to meet you in person, Jack.”
“Likewise, Mrs Jacobs.”
“I prefer Mom.”
“Ima!” Davey hissed.
Jack, smooth as can be, locked an arm around Davey’s waist. “Well then, Mom. Mind if we get out the doorway? I forgot how cold it can get in New York.”
Esther ushered them in. As they took their shoes and coats off, she told them, “The girls are already here. Everyone’s waiting in the living room.”
“There’s the superstar!”
Sarah jumped up to hug Davey who walked in first while Jack tried to get his coat off his arm.
“Congratulations! When’s the song being released?”
“January 2nd.” He heard footsteps behind him. “Everyone, this is Jack. Jackie, this is my sister Sarah, her girlfriend-”
“Katherine!?”
“Jack!?”
Davey blinked as his boyfriend and his sister’s girlfriend gasped loudly, laughed louder and practically ran into a hug together.
“I am so confused.”
“Davey, Davey!” Jack repeated as if Davey wasn’t already giving him his full attention. “This is Ace!”
“Kitty is your ex!?”
Mayer, Esther and Les burst into laughter as the young adults tried to wrap their heads around it.
“How on Earth did we not realise?” Sarah exclaimed, slinging her arm around Davey’s shoulder as Katherine and Jack hugged again.
Davey saw a glint in the corner of his eye and spun around, grabbing Sarah’s hand and staring at the ring on her finger.
“You guys got engaged!?”
Les was now cackling, recording.
“Lester Jacobs, turn that off right now!” Katherine told him sternly. “Who’s phone even is that?”
“Sarah’s!”
“Give it back!”
Davey did not let go of his sister. “Oh no you don’t! You guys didn’t tell me!?”
Sarah pulled away and sat on the floor, dragging Katherine next to her. “You were too busy struggling with your own love life. It would’ve been cruel.”
Davey huffed, sitting on the floor beside the cushion Mayer’s leg was resting on. Jack sat next to him, resting his head on Davey’s shoulder. “Full story. Right now.”
Everyone settled down and they spent the evening swapping stories. Jack’s head ended up in his lap and he dozed off as Davey softly played with his hair.
Esther smiled over her mug of tea. “It’s beautiful seeing you so happy.”
Fondly, Davey looked down at Jack’s peaceful features, a smile blossoming on his own lips. “Yeah. He’s beautiful.”
Yeah, the world's a mess
It's chaotic and random, I couldn't care less
'Cause I found something true
In the intricate chaos of you
Two weeks later, they were outside another door. Jack was delaying exactly as he’d done before meeting the Jacobs. Davey couldn’t blame him this time.
Last time Jack had seen his mother, he had a huge fight with his brother and stormed out halfway through Thanksgiving dinner.
“What if she hates me?”
“Jack, you speak to her over the phone all the time. She does not hate you. Now ring the bell before I lose all feeling in my fingers.”
Hesitant, Jack rang. Then he grabbed Davey’s hand, squeezing it tight. David reciprocated, knowing how nervous his boyfriend was.
The door opened slowly.
Medda stared as if she couldn’t believe what she was seeing. “Jack?”
“Hey, Mama.”
Medda’s eyes began to water. “Please say this is real.”
Jack stepped forward and his voice wavered as he assured her, “It’s real, Mama. I’m here.”
Davey teared up as Medda pulled her son into a tight hug, sobbing. “I never thought you’d come home to me, baby.”
“I’m sorry, Mama. I’m so so sorry.”
“Shh, it’s okay. You’re here now. That’s all that matters.”
Hugging himself from the cold, Davey watched happily as Medda mumbled sweet nothings through her tears and Jack held on to her like his life depended on it.
When they eventually pulled away, there was no warning as Medda then hugged him.
“Thank you, Davey,” she whispered. “For bringing my baby home, even for a while.”
The hug was shorter than the one with Jack but when she pulled away, Davey was also crying.
“Look at my manners, leaving my boys in the cold and crying. Come in, let’s get you both warmed up.”
Jack took Davey’s hand and shot him a watery smile. He didn’t need to say a word for Davey to know what he wanted to say.
Thank you.
Davey squeezed his hand as they walked in.
Anything for you.
All this cosmic energy
Is swirling through infinity
A mystery I can't explain
Jack sat down next to Davey, handing him a drink as they watched both groom’s dance with their mothers.
Race and Spot’s wedding had been an emotional whirlwind.
The day before the ceremony, during the rehearsal dinner, Race had finally met his mother.
They had all gathered in the room and Race arrived, looking around in confusion at every one staring at the door expectantly.
Spot had entered shortly after, a hesitant smile on his face.
“I have a surprise for you, Tony. There’s someone who wants to meet you.”
A blonde woman walked into the room a moment later.
Davey had watched with bated breath as Race stared in confusion at the woman who was looking at him and crying.
“Tony. Meet Bella. Your mom.”
Apart from Davey, Smalls and Spot, no one else knew about this so the room was filled with gasps.
Race stared a moment longer before barrelling towards Bella. “Mom.” Everyone then burst into cheers (and tears) as Bella hugged her son for the first time.
Even now, watching Race dance and talk to his mother felt surreal.
“I can’t believe you kept it a secret from me,” Jack said, finally turning to look at Davey, pouting.
“Even I wasn’t supposed to know, moja gwiazda,” Davey reminded him, tacking on the Polish for my star to assuage his boyfriend’s feelings.
Jack kissed him on the cheek. “Well, I don’t know how I’ll outdo Spot.”
Amused, Davey asked, “What are you talking about?”
“You have a very good close relationship with your parents, so I can’t reunite you.” Jack casually took a sip of his drink. “When I marry you, I want to give you a big surprise like that.”
Davey had made the error of taking a sip of his own drink at that moment and promptly choked. Jack tapped his back to help him catch his breath. The moment he felt okay, he said, “Jackie, we’ve only been dating for six months.”
Jack furrowed his brow, not seeing the issue.
“Isn't it a bit too soon to think about marrying me?”
Realising what Davey’s concern was, Jack chuckled. “I’ve been thinking about marrying you the day you stole my shirt and decided to dance to a sexy song in my kitchen.”
“I still need to make you watch the show that song came from.”
“What is it with you and your shows? First Crutchie and Ducktales-”
“It’s a crime that he hadn’t watched it before.”
“Now me and this.”
“It’s my love language; forcing my far superior taste in entertainment down your throats.”
Jack rolled his eyes. “Well, you can make me watch it when we go back to Santa Fe.”
“You mean the day after tomorrow?”
“Yup.”
“I love you, Jack.”
“I love you too, Dave.”
But the bigger secret lies
In those supernova eyes
And all the worlds that they contain
Davey sighed, reading through the long rambling comment under his latest Instagram post, trying to decide whether or not he should delete it.
About two months after the wedding, Jack and Davey had been invited to do a radio talkshow interview. They were the couple taking the world by storm.
During the interview, Davey revealed that they had been living together since essentially the beginning of their relationship.
“We intend on spending the warmer months in Santa Fe so Jack can still look after his farm and then after harvest and during the cold months, we’ll be in NYC to be with our families.”
Obviously, the masses decided that they had to comment about this and voice their displeasure.
Jack didn’t use social media, beyond appearing in Davey’s livestreams, so he had no idea of the extent of people making their opinions known. But Davey, who’s job relied on him promoting the band online, saw almost all of it.
He tiredly read through the eighth comment telling him that he and Jack were moving too fast and that their relationship was never going to last like this.
“Okay, that’s enough of that.” Before Davey’s brain could process what Jack just said, his boyfriend snatched his phone away.
“Hey!”
“You’ve sighed at that screen about every ten seconds for the last half hour. You can’t stop people from talking.”
Davey blinked. If he was honest, he thought Jack had no idea about the comments.
“I ain’t stupid, Dave. I know people don’t like how we’re doing this.” Jack put Davey’s phone aside and instead held Davey’s hands. “Look, are you happy with how we live?”
“What…of course!”
“Then why does it matter what a faceless person on the internet thinks?”
“It’s not just one faceless person, Jack,” Davey sighed. “It’s hundreds.”
Jack pulled Davey in for a hug. “For every one person that doesn’t support us, there’s ten that do. Don’t let these folk get you down.”
Davey just sagged against Jack’s chest. “You’re right. Thanks.”
Jack sat back, keeping Davey’s head on his chest, humming gently and working his fingers through Davey’s hair.
When Davey was on the brink of sleep, he felt a kiss atop his head. “I love you so much, Davey Jacobs. No matter what anyone says.”
There are forces that I'll never understand
But it doesn't seem to matter any time you take my hand
In retrospect, Davey should have known this was coming.
It was three years later. The final day of the festival. The Ersters were invited to perform for the final day. They had done concerts all over the country and after this performance, they were set to a proper international tour.
Jack had insisted that they have a party after the show to celebrate their three year anniversary, the upcoming tour, and another successful festival.
They had released many new songs over the last few years but Chaos remained their most popular. So, naturally, that was their last song.
Only halfway through the song did Davey realise that Jack, who always stood in the group to give his support where somewhere he could easily be seen, was no longer there.
He tried not to frown, glaringly aware that he was singing in front of a huge crowd.
Belting out the final lines was always his favourite part, closing his eyes and letting his voice do all the work.
The music tapered out and when he opened his eyes, Jack was in front of him, blocking his view of the crowd. Before Davey could even ask what he was doing, Jack cheekily snatched the microphone away.
“Davey Jacobs. Three years ago, you brought your band here and youse blew everyone away with the amazing talent you guys have. But, more importantly, you gave me a reason to be fully selfish for the first time in my life.
“So, today, in front of this crowd of lovely folks, I’m gonna do the most selfish thing I possibly could…”
Davey’s eyes widened as Jack dropped to one knee and held up a ring. “I want you to be completely mine, forever. Davey, will you marry me?”
Joy filled every part of him as he nodded eagerly. “Of course I will. Stand up and kiss me, you silly man.”
Jack obliged and they kissed to the sounds of a cheering crowd, just as they had three years before.
Yeah, the world's a mess
It's chaotic and random, I couldn't care less
'Cause I found something true
In the intricate chaos of you
“Hey Dave? I need to talk to you about something.”
Davey immediately turned the cooker off to give Jack all of his attention. It was their first day in New York of that winter. Davey knew that being back in the city made Jack uncomfortable for a week or so and, therefore, he was always on high alert in case something happened.
“What’s wrong, Jack?”
“I’ve been thinking…maybe I should give up the farm.”
Davey blinked. “I…okay, maybe we should sit down for this conversation.”
So he followed Jack to the living room, his mind spinning as he tried to work out if Jack literally meant what he said.
They sat down and Jack took a deep breath.
“I went to see my dad.”
Of all the things Davey was expecting, it wasn’t that.
“What? When?”
“When I went ‘round to Mama’s place the other day. She went with me.” Jack stared down at his hands and sucked in a deep breath. “He was civil. As if he didn’t murder his wife then blame me. Uh…he asked stuff. I told him ‘bout you.” He chuckled in disbelief. “Say what you want about the man, at least he ain’t homophobic. Asked ‘bout you. Didn’t tell him much ‘cept we plan on getting married soon after Sarah and Ace.”
“Why didn’t you tell me?” Davey felt a little betrayed.
“You was with your family and helping the girls plan their wedding. ‘Sides, I want to keep you nice and far from that man.”
Sighing, Davey knew where Jack was coming from. “What’s this got to do with the farm?”
“I thought I moved to Santa Fe because it was my dream. Something me and my mom talked about. Then I saw my dad; prison’s made him a skinny, pathetic man. Then I realised…I was just scared. Of everything that he did to me.” Jack finally looked up at his fiance. “I’m gonna be marrying the love of my life. I don’t wanna live in fear anymore.”
Davey’s heart swelled. He did this. His love gave Jack the courage to face his fear.
“So, the farm? You’ll probably give it to Specs, right?”
Jack nodded. “While you guys are on tour, I’ll help him hire some new folk.”
“Hasn’t he already found those twins?” Davey searched his mind for names.
“Mike and Ike?” Jack nodded. “Yeah, to replace Charlie after he started law school and so Albert could work on his photography. But since Romeo’ll be opening the restaurant in town soon, an extra set of hands will be useful.”
“You’re incredible, you know that?”
Jack raised his chin. “Course I do.”
Davey rolled his eyes at the display of arrogance and smacked Jack upside the head. “We’ll talk about it in more detail once we’ve eaten.”
You lie by my side as the heavens rush past
I feel like I'm falling impossibly fast
In a world full of madness that won't ever cease
Somehow I found my place of peace
Davey stepped forward and took his new husband’s hand as music filled the air for their first dance.
Smalls was at the piano in the corner of the room, playing a more muted version of Chaos for them to dance to.
(It only seemed natural that the song that brought them together should be the one to mark the beginning of their union).
“Jackie…are you frowning?”
“Yes.”
Davey laughed at how put out his husband (he’d never get tired of calling him that) sounded. “Why? Having regrets already?”
“No. I just couldn’t think of a way to surprise you for today. Remember I told you at Racer and Spot’s wedding?”
Davey rolled his eyes. “Are you forgetting how you proposed? That was surprise enough.”
Jack just sighed but then he smiled. “We’re married.”
“Yes, we are, husband.”
“So, what’s next for us?” Jack asked, resting his head against Davey’s shoulder; he loved to take advantage of being the shorter one.
“Our honeymoon,” Davey mused. “Then we were planning to visit the farm, make sure all our boys are okay.”
“Love how they’re ours,” Jack practically giggled into his shoulder. The giggling was indicative of how much of a lightweight he was. Jack never used to drink but since dating Davey, he now drank a little during big events.
“Well, they’re basically our kids. They keep calling us Mom and Dad. Jojo, Mike and Ike call us Grandma and Granddad like the little shits they are.”
“The lot of them think they’re funny. I’m only two years older than Specs.” Jack giggled again.
“You lightweight,” Davey teased. “No more champagne for you.”
“That’s fine, you taste better anyways.”
Davey sighed. “Jackie, we can’t leave yet. We haven’t been here long enough.” When Jack’s only response was to giggle some more into his shoulder, Davey took initiative. They finished their dance and Davey took Jack to a table that had water. He refused to let Jack go anywhere until he’d finished the glass given to him.
“You look after me real good,” Jack told him. “You’d make a great mom.”
Davey snorted. “Perhaps this is a conversation for when you’re more sober.”
“I love you,” Jack announced very suddenly, looking up at David.
Davey kissed him. “I love you too. Let’s go dance some more.”
So the world keeps spinning on
As the day begins to dawn
Your eyes meet mine in the space between
Time slows down for just a while
In a single simple smile I finally see what it all might mean
Davey could feel his heart breaking as he reached the end of the song.
He’d been married for two years. Race and Spot for nearly six. And this was their last performance before The Ersters disbanded.
Race and Spot’s surrogate was due to give birth to their second child any day now. Jack and Davey were considering children themselves. Even Smalls, who wasn’t tied down by a person, was eager to just settle down into a steady life.
It seemed like the best time for them to disband but that didn’t mean that it didn’t hurt.
Over the years the fanbase had grown so exponentially; the crowd in the venue was a small fraction of the fans.
As much as Davey was looking forward to properly just settling down, he would miss the thrill of singing something he created and hearing the audience singing along.
They thanked the crowd and made their way offstage, all of them feeling emotional.
Jack, Albert, Specs, Romeo and Crutchie were there to comfort the band, just offering hugs and congratulations.
“An amazing show, as usual.” Jack kissed Davey’s forehead. “As beautiful as the first time I heard you sing.”
“It’s over.” Davey lamented, letting Jack rock them back and forth.
Their peace was momentary before Davey felt a tugging on his shirt.
He looked down at the toddler looking around at the crying adults. “Uncle Davey. Why cry?”
He picked up his nephew and tickled his stomach. “You’ll understand when you’re bigger, Luca.”
The four year old gave him a hard look. “How big?”
Jack barked a laugh before holding his hand just over his waist. “This big.”
Luca’s eyes widened. “That big?”
“Mhm.” Jack stole the child away. “Sean, give your kid some attention. He’s taking Davey’s attention away from me and I don’t like that.”
Everyone laughed and Race took his son away from Jack.
Spot shot back, “What are you going to do when you guys have a kid and they take the attention?”
“I will simply die for lack of attention,” Jack declared dramatically.
Smalls asked Luca, “Are you excited? You’re going to have a baby sister soon!”
Luca pulled a face which made everyone laugh.
“Oh lovely,” Albert quipped. “When’s she due?”
“Next Tuesday,” Race said. “So she’ll be about 4 months when those two finally tie the knot.” Everyone turned to look at Specs and Romeo.
“In our defence,” Romeo started, “between the restaurant and the farm, we’ve been busy.”
The group broke into chatter as they discussed the new baby and the wedding and a plethora of other things. Davey and Jack just watched happily, holding hands.
The Ersters may have disbanded but their ‘family’ had plenty to look forward to.
Hold me close beneath the brilliant skies above
We'll go tumbling through the contradicting senselessness of love
“Is she asleep?” Davey whispered as his husband snuck back into the room.
“For now. That scamp has too much energy.”
Davey groaned lightly. Their daughter had recently learned how to walk and made life just a little more difficult in every aspect. She had bounds of energy and no matter how long they let her run around in the park or jump on the bed, she never seemed tired.
“Quick. Get into bed so we can sleep for an hour before she wakes up again.”
Jack practically leaped under the covers and curled up next to Davey. “The farm was less exhausting,” he decided, speaking with his face squashed against Davey’s chest.
Before Davey could even work out how to respond, he heard a cry from the other room.
He could’ve sworn Jack sobbed a little at the sound.
“I’ll bring her in here. She can sleep here tonight.” Davey stretched, delaying getting up for as long as could.
He wandered out of their room and into their daughter’s. He could tell by the shock of blonde hair that she was standing up before he even reached her crib.
“Hey there, my little star,” he greeted in Polish. They were determined to teach their daughter - and each other - as much of their mother tongues as they could. “What’s wrong, hmm? Why won’t you let your poor Aba and Papa sleep?”
She lifted her arms and made a grabby motion with her small hands. “Up,” she demanded. “Up.”
“Okay, okay.” Davey reached down and scooped her into his arms.
She then pointed in the general direction of her fathers’ bedroom. “Papa.”
“Yes, let’s make sure Papa doesn’t feel left out.” He grabbed the stuffed duck Crutchie had given her out of the crib before making his way back to their room, toddler in his arms.
“Heya, Stella.” Jack tiredly reached out to take their daughter so Davey could also get into bed. “Gonna tell us why you won’t sleep?”
Stella just snatched her duck from Davey and lay down with her head on Jack’s chest, making sure to push her feet against Davey’s ribs.
She tried to put the wing of the duck into her mouth and Davey pushed it away.
“No, Stella. Don’t put Webby in your mouth.”
“Issa yuck?” She asked.
Her fathers both laughed a little.
“Yeah, baby.” Jack agreed, pulling the covers over his sideways daughter. “It’s yuck.”
She wrinkled her nose at the answer before resolutely putting her thumb into her mouth.
Davey rolled his eyes but didn’t say anything. Neither spoke as she steadily sucked her thumb and fell asleep.
“I’m so glad my parents offered to take her this weekend,” Davey sighed, dislodging the tiny feet from his side and gently turning Stella so her head was on the pillow. “I love her but-”
“We need more than 2 hours of consecutive sleep?” Jack filled in.
Davey just nodded. He pressed a kiss in his daughter’s hair, watching Jack do the same.
As they settled down to sleep, Davey smiled to himself, watching as Jack quickly fell asleep.
He was so glad he followed his dream to Santa Fe all those years ago.
It gave him his two beautiful stars.
Yeah, the world's a mess
It's chaotic and random, I couldn't care less
'Cause I found something true
Yes, I found something true
In the intricate chaos of you.
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Crime_Raccoon on Chapter 1 Mon 06 Nov 2023 06:37AM UTC
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daveysjackie (KitoH) on Chapter 1 Sat 02 Dec 2023 08:07PM UTC
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Crime_Raccoon on Chapter 1 Sun 03 Dec 2023 03:18AM UTC
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Im_gay_weeb on Chapter 2 Wed 12 Apr 2023 10:43AM UTC
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Im_gay_weeb on Chapter 3 Wed 12 Apr 2023 10:47AM UTC
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PxiStx1x on Chapter 3 Mon 18 Nov 2024 01:44AM UTC
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e (Guest) on Chapter 6 Tue 31 Jan 2023 12:29PM UTC
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daveysjackie (KitoH) on Chapter 6 Wed 08 Feb 2023 08:18PM UTC
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orphaned_acccount on Chapter 6 Tue 31 Jan 2023 05:58PM UTC
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daveysjackie (KitoH) on Chapter 6 Wed 08 Feb 2023 08:18PM UTC
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Im_gay_weeb on Chapter 6 Wed 12 Apr 2023 11:00AM UTC
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Crime_Raccoon on Chapter 6 Mon 06 Nov 2023 07:17AM UTC
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daveysjackie (KitoH) on Chapter 6 Sat 02 Dec 2023 08:07PM UTC
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Crime_Raccoon on Chapter 6 Sun 03 Dec 2023 03:17AM UTC
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antisocialgaycat on Chapter 7 Sat 11 May 2024 06:43AM UTC
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Im_gay_weeb on Chapter 8 Wed 12 Apr 2023 11:11AM UTC
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and they were roommates (Guest) on Chapter 9 Wed 01 Feb 2023 11:58PM UTC
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daveysjackie (KitoH) on Chapter 9 Fri 03 Feb 2023 03:29AM UTC
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BroadwayBug on Chapter 9 Sat 04 Feb 2023 05:48AM UTC
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daveysjackie (KitoH) on Chapter 9 Sat 04 Feb 2023 04:23PM UTC
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meg (Guest) on Chapter 11 Mon 06 Feb 2023 05:08PM UTC
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Janis (Guest) on Chapter 11 Tue 07 Feb 2023 10:07PM UTC
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daveysjackie (KitoH) on Chapter 11 Tue 07 Feb 2023 10:08PM UTC
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Janis (Guest) on Chapter 11 Wed 08 Feb 2023 07:54PM UTC
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Im_gay_weeb on Chapter 11 Wed 12 Apr 2023 11:27AM UTC
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PxiStx1x on Chapter 11 Mon 18 Nov 2024 04:43AM UTC
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dittyel on Chapter 12 Thu 09 Feb 2023 06:14AM UTC
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Typical_reader on Chapter 12 Thu 09 Feb 2023 02:56PM UTC
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daveysjackie (KitoH) on Chapter 12 Mon 27 Feb 2023 12:51AM UTC
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anotherdaveyjacobs on Chapter 12 Mon 13 Feb 2023 05:43PM UTC
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daveysjackie (KitoH) on Chapter 12 Mon 27 Feb 2023 12:51AM UTC
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