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That was the day all people waited for all year long. One single night during which, the ones fortunate enough to have access to the countryside, could look up at the sky and wait for shooting stars.
That was a tradition everyone, from children to elders, tried to follow. But of course, the 10th of August was a day expected with a particular trepidation by those who already found every possible excuse to stargaze. To them, the possibility to make a wish upon a shooting star was merely a nice feature in addition to the already interesting past time of spotting constellations.
For that reason Flint, who was counting down the days to ask his best friend to spend a couple hours together at the beach during the night, was worried when, hours well later than sunset, Volkner still hadn’t replied.
That wasn’t the first time the boy seemingly disappeared. He had a troubled situation at home, and he wasn’t doing well on his own, but this time he had disappeared for days, and that was enough for Flint to sneak out and go to his house, and finally find out what was up.
Volkner was woken up by faint knocking on his window. He already had troubles falling asleep that night plus, he thought, some Starly was pecking the glass. He turned on his side, still half asleep, to discover what was bothering him, and he finally shot awake, surprised, when he saw the shadow of his best friend.
«What are you doing here?» he whispered. From that view, he could see Flint had either climbed around four meters to get to his window or, more likely, Infernape had given him a headstart.
«I was worried about you» the other boy whispered back. «Are you stupid? If my father sees you he's gonna kill us both» «Let me in, then. He won't find out».
Volkner helped his friend inside, but still left him sitting on the windowsill.
«You know if I don't pick up, there's a reason. I don’t care how worried you are» he started, then pulled down his pajama pants, revealing a long black bruise across his thigh.
«I got lucky this time» he went on, lowering his voice.
«You don’t have to live like this. You're an adult now, you can stay at our place all the time you want» Flint said in a soft tone, then tried to hold his best friend, but froze when he saw the door slam open. He instinctively pulled Volkner behind his back, as the other boy scrambled to pull his pants back on and tuck the shirt inside them.
The man standing in the doorway glared at Flint, Volkner was shivering. «Out of my house, kid. Don't force me to call the police» he said, in a firm but seemingly calm tone. «Go» Volkner whispered. Flint tried to oppose, but Volkner shoved him away and insisted he left.
Flint gave up, apologized and left through the door, but stayed around, by the garden, far enough not to be accused of trespassing but close enough that he could intervene.
From there he could hear every shout, every insult the man threw at his son, and then he heard something fall off the window and into the bushes under Volkner's room.
His heart dropped. He froze in place. Infernape desperately called for him, even handed him his phone to call an ambulance. His hands shook as he snapped out of his trance and dialed the emergency number.
A lady responded. Flint stammered, trying to force the words out of his mouth. «I- I heard an argument and someone fell out of a window. I think they need an ambulance» he managed to say, then gave the address.
«We already received a call to the same address. Help is already on the way» she replied. Flint thanked her, then started waiting, helplessly as he paced around. He waited, until he saw Volkner's father starting to appear behind the door. He didn't have time to think. Before the man was even out, the boy had bolted away on his bike.
Don't pretend he didn't hear you run away like a coward, Flint.
Volkner couldn't move, not even if he wanted. He could feel every thorn puncture deeper in his flesh every moment it passed, every drop of blood, warm on his skin. Every breath hurt, every twitch of his muscles burned. The soft leaves and flowers he was lucky enough to land his head and neck onto were the only things to give him the slightest solace.
He had to stop himself from crying. If every breath was a stab, he couldn’t even imagine how painful it would be to cry. He looked up.
Such a beautiful night.
The moon was high in the sky, full, shining, directly in front of Volkner’s eyes. A thin veil of white clouds concealed its brightness and yet, some of it managed to slip through the cracks.
He had spent countless hours throughout his life watching that same moon, as a child, when he still had that silly dream of becoming an astronaut. He still could spot all the constellation he had memorized so many years prior, he remembered all the times he traced his small fingers along imaginary lines, all the times he had found stars by measuring distances with his palm, with his arm bent just enough to compensate for his smaller hand, all the countless times he had spent arguing with Flint, who insisted finding the North Star was much easier than Volkner made it out to be, only to point towards Venus, Jupiter, or whatever star looked the brightest every night.
And all the times he had spent alongside his best friend, laying on soft grass, in that same position he found himself in, teaching Flint names the other boy would never remember, feeling like an astronaut floating in outer space, away from the mess of his own home, in the endless sea of his imagination, whereas now he was stuck there, grounded to reality, nothing more than a swallow impaled by thorns.
And while he kept occupying his mind with every thing possible, he heard Flint, stupid enough to put him in that situation and cowardly enough to leave, pedaling away. In the very moment of need, he was abandoned by everyone, even the person who swore to hell and back that he would die before leaving.
He tilted his back a little backwards. He had never been a religious person but still, he was a human. Who else could he confide in?
«Please» he prayed, his voice feeble, his vision starting to blur, from pain, tears, exhaustion.
«Just let me go».
The three miles long road between the two houses felt three times as long. The light, reliable bike Flint had used since he started high school felt like lead, the tires glued to the pavement, the faster he pedaled, the longer the road seemed to become. His mind was fixated on Volkner, unsure if he even was alive or not. He was so absentminded he even bumped against a streetlight at some point, falling and scratching his leg and arm.
He finally arrived home dead in the night, drained of every ounce of energy left in his body, bleeding from the deeper cuts from the fall, and the first thing he noticed were the living room lights on.
«Where on Earth have you been?» his mother asked, then watched her son's visibly distressed expression.
Flint took a look at his parents. His mother was holding Buck, still awake, his eyes red from crying.
«I- I'll explain, but it's something I want to discuss with just you and dad» he said. His parents stared at each other for a moment, they had noticed the serious look on their son's face, then sent Buck back to his room.
«Are you okay, though?» Flint's father asked, his son dismissed his injuries. «I fell, it's not important now» he replied.
«I was worried ‘cause Volkner had been ignoring me for two days straight, so I went to his house. Long story short, his father beat him again and tonight they- they had a struggle and- and- and now he's in the hospital» he explained, visibly shocked, his bottom lip trembling.
«I was wondering… if- if he could stay with us for a while. It's the bare minimum I can do, it's my fault he's at the hospital».
«He’s in danger inside that house. I- can't- tell you, it's something Volkner told me in confidence, I just… know».
“Better a dead son than a faggot”.
Volkner knew he meant it. Flint recalled his friend had repeated that sentence with such fear it made his own blood chill.
Volkner was terrified, and it had taken Flint a long time of hugging his friend and promising everything would be alright, as well as swearing himself to secrecy multiple times after Volkner revealed that he was so scared because he was indeed gay, that the boy at last managed to calm down.
«Tell Volkner he can stay as long as he wants if the situation is that dire» Flint's father said, his wife agreed.
«Also, we didn't forget about your punishment, but it would be cruel to go through with it while you're worried for your friend. Just go say something to your brother for now» she said. Flint gave them a faint smile and went to his room. Buck was already asleep in his brother's bed.
«Hey, Bucky-boy» he called. The child opened one of his eyes. «Sorry for making you worry earlier. I was with Volk, he wasn't feeling well» he explained, the child nuzzled against his brother.
«Next time tell me. I was scared» Buck replied. «I will. But no more ratting me out, alright?» Flint replied, then held out his pinky. «Pinky promise» Buck said, as solemn as a six year old could be.
Flint barely slept that night. While his little brother was sound asleep, cuddled against him, he checked his phone constantly, waiting for some updates, even just a simple text confirming Volkner was alive would be enough. He knew trying to reach out was no use, he could only wait.
Until finally, early in the morning, just as the sun was rising, a text finally popped up.
“I'm home. Reply ASAP”.
Flint had troubles reading the words, but they were still so clear in his mind. He instinctively jumped up, startling his brother.
“I'm awake”.
Flint waited for a reply, biting his nails, then covered Buck's mouth, as he had started to whine about being woken up.
“We need to talk. Park in 20’”.
The boy didn't even think to reply. He just shot up and got dressed, told his brother he had to leave and then went to his parents’ room.
He knocked.
«Mom?» he called, his voice not too loud. The woman was probably awake already. She opened the door not too long after.
«What are you up to now?» she asked, hands on her hips. Flint lowered his gaze. «Volkner texted me and said we need to talk. He's waiting for me. I'll be back soon though» he explained. The woman sighed. «Thank goodness he's okay. Be careful, alright?» she said, then went to the kitchen. «Are you eating anything?» she asked her son, who shook his head. «I’ll have breakfast later» he replied, then went to grab his bike and went to the park.
When he arrived Volkner was already there. His right arm was in a cast, his face showed bruises. Flint walked towards him with his head hanging low, full of guilt and shame.
Volkner was glaring at him as he approached and sat by his side on the bench.
«If you had minded your business none of this would've happened» he started, calm, too calm. He was on the verge of exploding.
«I’m sorry» Flint muttered.
«He pushed me out of the fucking window. And told the nurses I'm unstable and tried to kill myself. They gave me some pills that make me feel like complete shit» Volkner replied, seemingly having not heard Flint's apology.
«I ruined you, I'm sorry» the other boy went on.
«I just wanna know why. You know how my father is, do you wanna get killed so bad?» Volkner asked, his calm façade starting to crack.
«I care about you more, I thought you were dead» «Then stop caring. It's easier for both of us. I only have you, and I don't want to lose you like that».
Flint grabbed him by the shoulder, lightly, but Volkner still flinched in pain.
«You… you shithead, I love you» he blurted out. «The day I stop caring is the day I die» he went on. Volkner sat there, his lip quivering, his eyes wide. Flint held him, gently. Volkner was stiff.
«I’d do anything not to lose you» Flint whispered, Volkner finally held him back. His friend smiled and gave him a small kiss on the cheek.
He then gently placed his hands behind Volkner’s neck, just enough to keep him in place and kissed him. Volkner was stiff due to surprise at first, but then he melted into that kiss, his hands trembling as he was still deciding what to do next.
«The only problem is that I can't» Volkner replied, his hands on Flint's chest, keeping him away but still resting over his heart. «You can. If you want» his friend replied, putting his hands over Volkner’s. «If… if my father-» the boy started. «Fuck your father, you’re living with us. If a dead son is better than a faggot, good. You’re dead to him now» Flint stated. He was fed up with the man’s behavior.
«He’ll find me, and when he does, I’m dead. For real, this time».
Volkner’s tone was chilling.
«Oh, why? Because he’s a cop? He could be the emperor for all I care, you’re old enough to do what you want. And we’re letting you stay».
Volkner rested his head against Flint’s shoulder.
«You know he’ll spin the tale however he wants, but we all know the truth. And we’re on your side» the boy said, then gently hugged Volkner, then took his hand. «So, are you coming home with me? I can call mom and she can drive us if you can’t ride on my bike» he asked, Volkner nodded. «I wanna go home with you, though. You just have to go slow».
Flint helped him get up and get on the bike, instructing him to hold on, then they took off.
By the time they reached Flint’s house both his parents were already awake and having breakfast.
«So uh… there’s something I need to tell you» the boy started, red in the face, then dragged Volker by his side. «He’s my boyfriend. So… uh… that’s about it, thought you might want to know».
A few seconds of agonizing silence passed.
«It’s a shame you had to tell us in such unfortunate circumstances» his father replied, his tone gentle though still groggy from sleepiness, then looked at Volkner.
«I imagine you're staying with us for a while, son» he went on, the boy nodded, his head low.
«I’ll help him move after you leave for work» Flint's mother chimed him.
«And if Flint helps me get the mattress from the attic we can set up a place to sleep» she added, looking at her son.
«Infernape and I can deal with it. Could you give Volkner something to eat instead, please? I'm sure he's starving» the boy asked, then went to his room. Buck had fallen back asleep.
Flint woke him up. «We’re gonna talk about it better later, but Volkner is staying with us for a while, so you'd better behave» he explained, then let out Infernape and both went to get both the mattress and the frame.
By the time all was set up both Flint’s parents were trying to chat with Volkner, who only replied with nods and hums, as he nibbled at the little food he had left on the plate.
«Truth is, ma’am… I don’t feel like eating anything, sorry» Volkner muttered, shrinking in his seat. «Thank you for the food, it’s really good, but I’m gonna throw up if I eat any more» he went on.
«It’s okay. I’ll save it for later. You can leave the table if you want» Flint’s mother replied as she stroked the boy’s hair.
«Sorry about that, ma’am» Volkner apologized, but the woman smiled at him, reassuringly. «It’s alright, hon. As long as you don’t get up with an empty stomach all is good» she said, her voice soft. She stared at him, with a gaze full of pity, as the boy she watched grow up and loved like her own son limped away, using the walls as a support.
«How could someone do this to their own child?» she went on, her voice low, not to be heard.
«’Cause he’s a piece of shit and he’d rather have a dead son than a gay one» Flint chimed in after he sat at the table. He wasn’t hungry despite the huge effort moving the mattress took.
«I understand you’re both upset, but we can’t go around making accusations» Flint’s father replied, trying to calm down both his wife and son, who both turned around to stare back at him.
«You weren’t there last night. I’ve never heard someone so angry. He was throwing the worst insults. Volk would never jump off. I know it was him. He ruined him» he recalled, his voice haunting, chilling. His hands began shaking again, his glass slipped from his hand and fell onto the other, which Flint had used to catch the object. He failed, causing the glass to hurt his wrist.
The boy lowered his head and started sobbing. All the distress of the past hours caught up to him, that last injury was the last straw.
«He’d be happy if it wasn’t for him. I was so scared of losing him» he managed to say, between sobs, as his mother, who had sat by his side to comfort him, held him and wiped his tears.
«But he’ll be okay now. We’ll help him, like a family. Stop crying, baby, it's alright» she said, but Flint was still unconsolable. His parents hadn't seen him so broken in years.
«I feel worthless. It's all my fault he almost died. If… if… if I hadn't gone there… he deserves someone better, I only cause trouble» the boy cried. His father sat in the chair beside his son and held him too.
«Flint, listen to me. You only did it out of love. Was it reckless? Yes. But I'm sure Volkner has already forgiven you» the man said, his voice calm, his hands stroking his son's back.
«I wanna do something good for once, but I can't even make him feel better. He should dump me, it'd be better» the boy went on.
«You’re doing everything necessary, you found him a place to stay. He most likely won't feel better right away, but this doesn't mean you have to give up» the man went on. Flint slowly managed to calm down, his mother wiped the last tears on his face then kissed his forehead.
«Go get some proper sleep, baby. I won't bother you» she said, the boy reluctantly nodded, then left for his room.
«Look at the time, you're going to be late!» the woman then said to her husband, who simply shrugged.
«My son was more important. I can say traffic held me back. My boss won't mind that much if I act convincing enough» he replied.
The woman stared at him, her eyes worried.
«What do we do now?» she asked after she was sure the boy was out of hearing range. «If you’re worried about money I can take on a few extra shifts» the man replied, as he wiped some last crumbs off his shirt. «No, no, we can manage just fine. Do we let them sleep in the same room?» she asked. «We can’t let either of them sleep on the couch, it wouldn’t be fair. We don’t even have another room» she went on.
«We were their age when we had Flint. It would be cruel to separate them during this moment. We did all we could, and surely we can’t patrol them at all times. The best thing to do now is trust them» her husband replied, with a reassuring smile.
They had known their son was into men for years. It had never gone unnoticed to them how Flint’s gaze would linger on other boys his age, the way he would look down, embarrassed, every time he was caught in the act.
They had noticed how smitten he looked in the last few years every time Volkner was in his general vicinity.
They had sat him down, it didn't take Flint long to crack and admit everything.
That day, the three of them had a long talk, with frequent remarks on how the boy could ask, without judgment, about any topic.
«They’re both twenty, and Flint is a good kid» the man added, then let out a chuckle. «Hey, at least there won’t be any surprise babies» he said, making his wife giggle as well, then got up and fixed his tie.
«Aren’t you forgetting something?» the woman asked, leaning closer, then wrapped her arms around her husband and kissed him.
«Gotta go, unfortunately. I fear “my beautiful wife loves me so much I ran late” won’t work as an excuse with my boss» he said, then gave his wife a quick kiss and left.
The woman, now alone, sighed then went to check on her kids. As she expected, all of them were asleep.
Crammed on Flint’s mattress.
Even Buck had somehow managed to squeeze between the two older boys, who had supposedly fallen asleep while holding each other.
«So this is what you kids were hiding» she muttered to herself, as she quietly closed the door. Now that no one was in the way, she could do whatever chore was left unfinished due to the previous turmoil.
She knew there had to be a reason for Flint to be so secretive about his room whenever his friend was sleeping over. Always keeping the door shut, even during the summer. The woman had thought whatever was going on inside had to be either incredibly stupid or incredibly shady. Aware of her child’s impulsive demeanor, she thought the former was the case but now everything made sense.
Flint had always been affectionate, more than the average boy, but every time his affection was directed towards someone other than his little brother, he became shy about it. He hugged Volkner in private only, he was quick to let go when he heard footsteps and yet, whenever the boy spent the night at their house, the woman could smell on Buck not only Flint’s odor, which was expected as the child loved to cuddle with his big brother, but also another smell, which she knew for sure didn't belong to either of her sons.
It made sense at last, why Flint was so quiet every morning after the sleepovers. He wasn’t doing anything bad, he was just an awkward teenager sleeping cuddled with his crush.
The boys only woke up hours later, around noon. All three of them were completely wrecked.
Flint looked at his brother, he was still asleep. Volkner was already up, sat on the bed and leaned against the wall.
«We gotta tell Bucky about us. It’d be awkward if… you know…» he said, Flint shrugged. «He won’t mind. We can talk to him later if you want to» «I’d rather we told him right now, it’s eating at me».
Flint looked down, then woke Buck up.
«What?» the child asked. The two older boys stared at each other, trying to decide who would be the one to break the news.
«What?» Buck asked again, then sat up. «Bad news?».
Flint took a deep breath. «No, we wanted to tell you something» he started.
«We’re dating» Volkner added, cutting the conversation short. Buck stared at them both. «Oh. Okay» the kid replied, then jumped down the bed and went to the kitchen.
«Glad to see you’re awake» the boys’ mother said when all three of them walked in. «We need to leave soon. If you promise to behave we can leave you here with Infernape» she then told Buck.
Volkner gasped, causing all three to turn their attention to him. «Oh, sorry. I just… remembered my boys are still there and… they haven't eaten for a while» he explained, looking down at the floor.
«Give me a couple minutes to dress properly and we can be on our way» the woman replied, then looked at Infernape, which Flint had already let out.
«No fire, okay? Or else you get no treats for a month. Just make sure Buck doesn't get hurt» the woman warned, and the Pokémon nodded.
Flint took the car keys, then signed Volkner to follow him. His mother came out a few minutes later, her expression had changed. She still appeared calm, but the boy could see through it. She was fuming.
«Mom, please, don’t do anything rash» the boy begged from the passenger seat, when they were close to Volkner's former house. His mother could have quite a bad temper, especially when angered. «I’m perfectly calm, Flint. I got this» she replied, her hands gripping the steering wheel so hard her knuckles were white.
She parked in front of Volkner's house, then looked in the rearview window and smiled. «Let me handle this, boys. You pack and load the car» she said, then marched to the front door, the boys trailing behind her.
When Volkner's mother opened the door, both the women were smiling.
«Good morning. Do you mind if we talk for a little?» Flint's mother asked, then signed the boys to get out of hearing range.
The other woman didn't reply, she had just noticed her son hiding behind Flint.
«There you are. Come on, I promise I won't tell your father you went out» she said, as she tried to step towards her son, but the other woman put one arm in front of the boys and pushed them further behind her.
«I think there's a misunderstanding. Volkner is coming to stay with us» the woman replied, with a smile. The corner of her mouth twitched, a sign Flint knew meant she was about to go off.
«Flint, why don't you go help Volkner pack?» she then invited, a tone of urgency in her voice Flint recognized perfectly.
The boy dragged his friend upstairs as quickly as they both could, and as soon as they shut the door they clearly heard the two women going on with their conversation.
«I appreciate your effort, but I won’t enable his rebellious phase. He needs to grow up and act like an adult». Flint squeezed the book he was holding, his hands shaking with rage. Volkner seemingly had ignored or not heard the comment his mother made, and maybe, it was for the best.
«Are you serious? Your son almost died, this is not rebellion» Flint’s mother snapped back, from her tone alone it was obvious her patience was running thin.
«We both know what your husband does to him. You still have time to make the right choice» she went on, but the other woman cut her off.
«If he was a proper son his father wouldn’t need to discipline him that hard» she replied, and for the first time in years, Flint heard his mother raise her voice.
«You defend a trained police officer hitting a child? What kind of mother are you?» she asked back, angered, scary. «Don’t worry, though. Volkner is staying with someone who actually loves him» she went on, then the boys heard her climb the stairs. «You’re welcome for getting rid of your burden» she added in the end, sarcastic.
«Boys, are you ready?» she asked after opening the door, in a much softer tone. Volkner nodded, then followed the woman out of his own bedroom and back to the car, then sat in the backseat, with his head hanging low.
He was crying silently as he fidgeted with his own hands.
«The nerve of some people» the woman muttered as she put the keys in the ignition, then readjusted the rearview mirror to look at Volkner.
«We don’t think you’re dead weight, hon» she reassured, the boy looked up for a second, his eyes red. «Been working since thirteen, paid for everything I needed myself, I got savings. I can pay rent. I’m not a beggar» he explained, the woman smiled gently. «You need to act your age. You’re still too young to worry about this. And you’re not a charity case, you’re family» she replied, Volkner looked down again.
«And if they still put up with me they’ll love you even more» Flint chimed in, then reached his hand backwards to hold Volkner’s, but the other boy ignored him.
«Mama, could you…?» Flint started, softly, the woman nodded before he could even finish the sentence. She pulled over, and let her son go sit beside Volkner and comfort him.
«As soon as we get home you both go take a nap, I'll call you when lunch is ready» the woman said after she parked in their home's garage, then after Volkner entered the door, she held Flint back.
«Be sensible. Okay? I trust you» she said, sternly. No more words were needed, Flint nodded, then his mother stroked his cheek and lightly pinched it.
«I’m proud of you».
Flint smiled at his mother, then grabbed Volkner's luggage and went to his room, in which Buck was playing with the older boy, who in turn was politely listening to him, but was obviously not in the mood.
«C’mon, leave him alone. You’ll get plenty of time to bother him» Flint said, lifting his brother and tossing him on his bed.
«I'll keep Buck busy» he then whispered in his boyfriend's ear.
«I don't feel anything. I actually want Buck to bother me» Volkner replied, then signed the child to please come closer.
«Volk, if you don't wanna play we can watch TV. Like, anything that makes you smile» he said, as Flint left the room.
«You’re very nice, but I don't even know what could help me right now. It's been a wreck, hope you understand» Volkner replied.
«Is it true your dad hurt you? That's what Flint told mom and dad yesterday» the kid asked. Volkner sat there, his mouth agape, unsure on what answer to give.
«No because, that would explain why you're so sad all the time. I’d be sad too if dad hurt me» Buck added. Volkner just nodded. He didn't feel like explaining to the kid the technicalities of the complex, tangled mess that was his brain.
Buck smiled, from ear to ear, showing all the gaps between his baby teeth in all their glory.
«You don't have to be sad anymore now that you're with us».
Volkner was speechless. It was such a sweet thing, and yet he felt as if an arrow had pierced through his heart. If only it was as easy as a child who had never known any harm in life made it seem to be.
«No, no, no, don't cry. Flint said it makes him so sad when you cry» the kid said at some point, before going to wipe the boy's tears with his little hands.
«Bucky, I know you only want the best for us, but right now I just need to be sad» Volkner replied. The kid seemed confused, but he still nodded.
«How long are you staying?» Buck asked. «I don't know yet. As long as your parents let me, I guess» the boy replied, unsure. «Y’know, mom and dad don’t want you to go. Like, they’re scared you’ll die out there, and Flint says he’ll only know you’re safe if you’ll live together».
Volkner’s heart skipped a beat. In his previous house, at the whim of a violent man, in which one bad day may mean losing his life, he never allowed himself to daydream, he believed he would have no future, and yet there he was, safe. And Flint was looking forward to the two of them living together, something Volkner wished, deep in his heart. The desire of finally being free, happy, without the need to worry about screams and threats, was too deep to completely erase or suppress.
He stroked Buck’s cheek. He loved that kid like his own brother. Flint’s poor mother left the child to their care every time her husband wasn’t home and she needed to rest. Volkner was sure that he himself had changed more diapers and fed more bottles to Buck than his own father ever did with him.
Volkner had made the mistake to mention it once during dinner, when the topic of where he had been all afternoon came up. Before he could either finish the sentence or swallow his food, his father blew up at him.
«I didn’t raise a pansy! You’ll babysit no child, especially that of that witch!» the man had shouted, as Volkner silently choked on his food. His father had never been fond of Flint’s parents, especially his father, whom he called a traitor and claimed he had “dirtied the pure Sinnoh blood in his veins”. Flint and Buck, to him, were “bastards unworthy of being called people”. He had made clear that none of them would ever enter his house.
So Volkner learned to sneak out, at day and at night. He always made sure to have an excuse. And it worked, for a long time, until the night before, when Flint had busted a failproof plan.
«Mom said she had Flint when she was twenty and she married dad too. Are you gonna marry Flint this year?» Buck asked.
Flint, who had just come back from the living room, scooped Buck and put a hand over his mouth.
«You talk way too much» he said, then put his brother outside the room and shut the door.
«Quiet. Go watch some TV or something. I need a minute alone with Volk» he then said to the kid, who had started to complain.
«Why so mean? He's just a child» Volkner asked, Flint was flustered.
«You got cold feet when he started talking about marriage. Did he strike a nerve?» Volkner teased, then got closer to his boyfriend and kissed him. Flint put a hand in front of the other boy’s mouth. «No… just… he got on my nerves, he’s been saying that for years, and now that we live together, y’know, stuff gets to his head easily» Flint explained.
«Hey, that doesn’t mean I don’t wanna marry you someday, just, I don’t wanna be so much like my parents» he added, then took his boyfriend’s hands and looked at them.
«You know what we should do instead? Go to the beach. You could use it» he then said, as he put his forearm near Volkner’s to compare their skin colors.
Volkner chuckled a little. It wasn’t much, but it was genuine, something Flint had missed.
«You’re not fair competition for me, c’mon» he replied. «What? I’m just a lil’ tan» «You’re not tan, your mom is black». Flint shrugged. «Still, a paper sheet is more tanned than you».
«So when you’re okay we’re going to the beach. With or without Bucky».
«Speaking of which, where did you go earlier? ‘cause your brother sure has potential to become a cop with how good he is at interrogating people» Volkner joked, Flint smiled proudly.
«I went to look for this» he said, as he grabbed a plastic box he had swiftly hidden under the pillow before grabbing Buck.
«Yes. This is your favorite stupid space documentary. Yes, I bought it with my birthday money and yes, I want to watch it with you if it can cheer you up» he went on.
«It was supposed to be a gift for Christmas, but I can find something else no problem».
Volkner was staring at the cover of the box, caressing with his thumb. «You didn’t have to, and… you hate it» he said. «But if it’s you, I can stand it» Flint replied with a smile, and for the first time, Volkner smiled back.
«You look so much happier now that you’re here with us» Flint said, in a tone so much softer than usual, as he stroked his boyfriend’s cheek.
«You’d be happy too if you didn’t have to fear for your life all the time» Volkner replied.
«If I still lived there and you still confessed, either you’d be dead on sight or I just wouldn’t be your boyfriend» he said.
«Wow, he really hates me. Is it because I’m gay or because I’m black?» Flint asked, after rolling his eyes and poking Volkner’s stomach.
«Is this a rhetorical question? He hates you, and he’d kill us both if he could» the boy replied. Flint rested his hands behind his partner’s neck, his fingertips brushed against the short hair on Volkner’s nape. «Well, I wish he could see us right now» Flint whispered against his lips. «How happy you are, now that you’re all mine» he went on, as he left a trail of kisses down Volkner’s lips, jawline and neck, as the other boy gulped, and gripped onto his arms, hard.
«Relax, I'm not going anywhere» Flint chuckled, then moved Volkner's top and placed a kiss on his collarbone. «You’re all mine» he repeated, right before sucking Volkner's skin between his teeth, the boy choked a whimper and dug his nails into Flint's arms.
«All mine» Volkner echoed, then pulled Flint's chin up and kissed him, before his partner could back away he pulled Flint close, using all the strength in his good arm, deepening the kiss.
They kissed until their jaw hurt, until their arms were sore from holding onto each other, until they were out of breath, hungry for each other akin to a starving beast.
They stared at each other, both breathless, cradled in the most awkward and yet comfortable hug they could manage to have.
They heard a knock on the door. Loud.
«Flint» his mother called, her tone was more annoyed than anything else.
«Shit» Flint muttered as he hustled to make himself as presentable as he could and quickly fixed up Volkner.
«It’s not locked» he then added as a reply to his mother, who didn't waste time and opened the door.
What she saw was just the two boys sitting on the mattress, but their swollen and red lips, as well as their awkward demeanor, gave everything away.
She glared at her son, who looked down, mortified. No need to express how disappointed she was.
«Strange, Buck told me it was locked» she instead said, then signed Volkner to take her youngest and leave the room, which the boy promptly did.
«Thought we agreed you’d be sensible».
«B-but… but I didn't do anything weird! I… I didn't- want Buck around for a couple minutes. Just to… it's weird to kiss when a first grader is staring at you» he stammered.
«I’m not stupid, we already talked about this with dad, and I’d never do that when Buck is around».
The woman looked at her son. He was trustworthy, reliable, and generally kept his word. She let out a sigh. Scolding him for wanting privacy would be hypocritical.
«I know I can trust you, but I also know what it feels like to have your partner live with you. You're old enough to make your own decisions, but be mindful» she said, then lightly pinched her son's cheek.
«We used to be sneaky back in my days, what happened to you kids?» she added with a giggle, hoping to make Flint laugh.
The boy indeed let out a short chuckle.
«Am I grounded?» he then asked. «Not for this, no. But about last night…» the woman started. Flint got up and unplugged his game console, which he then handed to his mother.
«Can I know why you were mad at me though?» he then asked. «In all honesty your brother made it seem like you were mad at him and kicked him out. There was a misunderstanding, sorry, baby» she replied. «It’s alright. Also, I promise I won't do anything stupid» Flint said, his mother smiled back at him.
«You think I'll be still grounded by, say, October?» he then asked. «Unless you do something very serious, no. Why?».
Flint smiled. «Volkner wants to become a gym leader, but I aim higher. I gotta wait and see how I rank in the tournament, which starts next October» he explained.
«Sounds like a good idea, you're a skilled trainer. And I’m sure your father will be proud too» she replied, Flint shifted from side to side and scratched his cheek. «Also, maybe if I become an Elite four I can convince Volkner to become one too. He’s as strong as me, and if I can do it, he won’t have any problems either. Can you imagine? Him and me working together» Flint said, his tone dreamy.
«Then maybe live together, get married, have children» his mother teased, her son nodded along, absentminded, with a huge grin on his face.
«Yeah… I mean no! I mean… yeah, it sounds nice…» he went on, as he scratched his head.
«I mean, of course I wish Volkner and I lived together, but that's for the future. I just want him to be better now, ‘cause there’s so much I wanna do with him».
«Are you done?» Buck asked as he opened the door, in his most innocent voice. «Sorry, he ran away» Volkner, who was following the child, apologized
The woman smiled at both. «Oh, yes, we're done. He's all yours» she said, then signed her older son to go with his brother and boyfriend.
«We’re gonna watch some boring stuff about space, you still wanna stay with us?» Flint asked Buck, after lifting him. He hoped the child would say no, even just to cuddle Volkner in the meantime without his brother saying how gross it was.
«I don't wanna watch it, but I wanna be with you» Buck replied. «Alright. You can play with something while we watch» Flint said, then put the boy down and gave him a very light slap on the back, to encourage him to find a toy.
Flint and Volkner went to the living room in the meantime. They sat on the couch, making sure that, if Buck wanted to join them, he couldn't sit between them. Flint also wrapped his arm around Volkner's waist and had already pulled him in more than one kiss.
«You’re still gross» Buck commented as he entered the room. When his brother offered him the free spot on the couch, he shook his head and sat on the carpet instead.
«We could get lucky tonight» Flint said to his boyfriend. «We could go somewhere, just you and I, and look for shooting stars» he whispered, as he intertwined their fingers together.
«You're grounded, I don’t think your parents will allow you to go out» Volkner replied.
«You’re not, though. You give mom some puppy eyes, you tell her how important it is to you, that stargazing alone is not the same as doing it with me. You're like a third kid to her, she’d never say no to you» Flint went on, as he nuzzled against Volkner’s neck.
«Use this time to your advantage, you get to do whatever you want. And if you ever get grounded, I’m gonna pay you back. How does that sound?».
Volkner sighed. «It sounds good, I gotta admit. If everything works out» he replied, Flint gently nudged him. «Because I know you so well» he said, with a cheeky smile on his face.
«Can’t wait until you're healed so we can do all the stuff we used to, I wanna take you on dates, I wanna battle again» he went on, Volkner smiled, faintly, enough for Flint to light up in a huge smile.
They heard Flint's mother passing by the living room, she was humming to herself.
«C’mon, go ask her» Flint said, as he paused the documentary. «She doesn't bite, c’mon. I’ll stay here, or she'll think it was my idea» he went on. «It was your idea» Volkner replied, but Flint shrugged, then poked his partner's stomach and signed him to go. Volkner sighed, then went. «This still doesn’t sit right with me» he muttered. Flint gave him a smile.
«Worst she can say is no, trust me. She won't even yell at you».
Volkner and the woman came back a few minutes later.
«Did you tell him to give me puppy eyes? That's a low sweep, boy» she asked her son. «But mama, it's for Volkner, you know how much he cares about it» the boy replied, staring at his mother with his big, black eyes. The woman sighed. «You too, now? Fine. You can go, but I'm not lending you the car. You stay within walking distance» she said, trying to sound assertive, but she was quite amused at the way Flint had found to avoid getting in more trouble. «And by the way, young man, this is a one time exception. No going out after sunset after this time» she went on.
«Alright! Thank, mama» he replied, then dragged Volkner back by his side. «Are you sure your father will be okay with this?» Volkner asked, worried. Flint shrugged.
«Eh, he won’t mind. He trusts mom on everything» he replied, then let his boyfriend rest against his shoulder.
«You won't find anyone like your father here. My parents actually like their kids».
«And my parents like you too. Not just because you're my boyfriend, they got attached to you, y’know? And I don't think they're gonna let you leave so easily» Flint went on, then giggled and held Volkner.
«Welcome home, that's a threat».
Volkner smiled at Flint, sincerely, happy. He got more comfortable in his boyfriend's arms and resumed watching the documentary.
When the night arrived the two boys were quick to get ready. During the afternoon Flint had helped Volkner wash himself, to allow him to get rid of the smell of hospital bed.
The reason he hadn't complained when his mother had warned them to stay within walking distance was obvious: Flint's house was less than half a mile away from the beach. A beautiful, dim spot near the water with a few rocks to sit on; the perfect place to stargaze in peace.
Flint had brought a picnic cloth. Sitting on rocks might have been fine, but laying on the sand was way more comfortable.
As they were waiting for the sky to darken enough, Volkner was rambling about every celestial object he could spot.
«I have a confession to make» Flint started. He showed the usual big, idiotic grin he usually had when Volkner was around, and happy.
«I know exactly where the North Star is, but if I get it wrong you can explain it to me again».
Volkner let out a sigh. «I should've known you couldn't have been this stupid» he replied, then went to hold his partner's hand.
«You know, maybe marrying later this year doesn't sound that bad» he then teased, Flint lightly kicked him. «Shut up» he replied, then went back to look up at the sky.
«Make a wish if you see one» he then added.
«I love you too, by the way» Volkner said after a few minutes of silence.
«Mh?» Flint asked. «I haven't told you earlier, so I'm telling you now. I love you» Volkner explained. Flint smiled, and turned to his boyfriend, then kissed him.
«I love you too».
The two boys turned back at the sky, their eyes darting around to spot shooting stars, silently competing with each other on who would be the first.
They were silent, focused. It took them almost half an hour of silent staring before both raised one of their arms, pointing in the same direction, shouting to each other to look.
And before the star and its trail disappeared into the night sky, both managed to witness that unusual event.
And both managed to make their wish, which happened to be the same.
“May we have many more nights like this ahead of us”.