Archive of Our Own ^beta

Neil hated rain.

He could not go for his morning runs. It ruined his entire mood for the day. The sound of thunder startled him out of his skin, and he always slipped without fail. He found himself in Forks, Washington, at his dad’s wooden porch, waiting for some solace from the storm.

Neil’s shoes were covered in mud, his hair sticking to his forehead, and nose red and dripping when Wymack finally opened the door.

Wymack’s steps boomed from the inside of the house. Neil could hear the man running around and furniture being dragged across the floor. Wymack was definitely cleaning up at the last minute.

Neil shivered. It must have been five minutes on the windy porch before the door finally swung open.

“Neil!” The man stood tall, appraising gaze taking up Neil’s appearance. “It seems Forks has not been kind to you so far, kid.”

“Tell me about it.” Neil walked past Wymack into the foyer and shook off his raincoat. He carefully removed his muddy boots next, trying not to dirty up the carpet too much. It was Abby’s favorite woven pattern, a gift from a friend from long ago. Wymack kept it in the same spot despite Abby being miles away in South Carolina. Neil did not comment on it but felt a slight smile tug at the corners of his mouth.

“Well, make yourself at home. Your room is the same as always and I got you some new clothes.”

“You truly didn’t have to.”

“It’s the least I could do, kid. I see you’ve grown but you’d probably still fit into those kid shirts.” Wymack laughed and patted Neil’s shoulder. His eyes crinkled as he smiled.

“I did not miss your jabs, old man.” Neil rolled his eyes. He walked around the living room. Same old dusty bookstand, same old fireplace, next to it countless varsity and D1 medals from David Wymack’s olden glory days as a Exy player.

“And I did not miss your attitude.” Wymack followed Neil’s gaze towards the shiny gold.

“You know… I wish you’d give it a chance.” He firmly grasped Neil's shoulder and shook it fiercely. “I started just in high school, you know. I had always been the short kid, just a bit taller than you are, and when I had my growth spurt and went off to college, I was undefeated. I met your mom there. She was this pre-med student with a hot…”

Neil scrunched up his nose. “Okay dad, that’s enough. I have school tomorrow.” He faked a yawn. “and I plan to make a good impression, being on time to my classes and all.”

“I see you are finally getting your act together.”

“Yes, me, the future Forks valedictorian.”

Wymack cackled.

Neil stuck his tongue out and headed upstairs. He did hate the weather but he terribly missed his dad. The small home had stayed pretty much the same. Wymack had never been big into home decor. The walls were that same old murky green, and a picture of Abby and Neil hung from it. He turned to his old bedroom.

“Tryouts are Wednesday!”

“I don’t care!” Neil closed his door shut and got ready to face being the new kid again.

–

Neil did care. It might be the only thing he cared about in this entire school. But he was committed to remaining unnoticed by everyone in school. That way, it would be easier to avoid the questions about his scars and the pitying looks from teachers and peers alike– and his father ever tracking him down if he ever got out of prison.

It seemed the universe had other plans, as he immediately piqued everyone’s interest as soon as he walked out of his truck. Forks was small, its school even smaller. And Neil did not exactly have common features. His red hair stuck out like a sore thumb among the crowd, and his very obvious facial scars that had everyone looking at him with both curiosity and pity. Usually, one of the first emotions he would read across people’s faces was disgust. But Abby had told him he had grown into his features over summer break. Not that such a comment meant anything to Neil, but at least he did not feel total shame over his appearance anymore.

Now, he had failed at the first step of his plan to remain unknown. The second step, he could not mess up: do not make a fool out of himself. It could not be that hard. Just do not trip. Be quiet. Do not mess with the wrong crowd. Do not try out for the Exy team. Easy.

But he kind of screwed that up as well during his first period biology.

The minute he stepped into the classroom, he was met with a myriad of different looks. Wonder. Confusion. Curiosity. Attraction? And there it was… disgust. By no other than the guy with the only vacant seat next to him. Great.

Neil exchanged a polite nod with the teacher and went over to the vacant seat. As he approached, the blond guy with the sour look on his face kept grimacing and had the audacity to cover his nose. Neil was completely certain that he put on deodorant this morning, after all, he would not thwart his attempt at anonymity by assaulting everyone’s nose.

He sat down next to the sour-looking guy and opened his textbook. He did not turn to look in the blond’s guy direction once during the class. Not even as the teacher asked everyone to introduce each other to their respective lab partners for the school year. Neil tapped his pencil anxiously against his leg as he felt his lab partner’s eyes travel across his body, lingering on his neckline.

“Do I have something on my shirt?” Neil tried.

“Will you stop tapping your pencil?” The blond guy spoke.

“Since you asked so nicely.” Neil put the pencil down and continued rhythmically tapping his forefinger against his thigh instead.

That was the last thing he said to Mr. Sour during that class period. Luckily enough, he did not see him in the rest of his class periods, but he still felt eyes tracking him across the hallway. Neil truly never lost his paranoid streak throughout the years. He looked around the hallway to confirm his suspicions and caught sight of Mr. Sour once again. He held his gaze, stubborn to not be the first to turn away, and eventually the blond went into another room, leaving him to catch a relieved breath. Neil did not want an enemy on his first day at a new school, and this short guy seemed to pose a problem.

As he walked down the hallway, he heard the familiar, scratchy voice again. “I would like to switch out of my first period.” The blond told the lady at the student class registry. Neil stopped walking and peered inside the advisor lounge.

“I cannot do that for you right now, Mr. Minyard. Bio is a graduation requirement.” The lady looked exasperated. It was probably the tenth time today someone had tried to change out of a class. Neil’s previous school in South Carolina was significantly larger than this one. The school had a bunch of advisors dealing with these kinds of student requests all day, but the small town did not have that much staff.

Neil stifled a laugh at the angry face Minyard made as he turned around to leave. He hurried down the hall towards his next class, but he was not quick enough.

“You!”

Neil pointed at his chest and looked around confused. “Me?”
Minyard caught up to him and pulled Neil towards him by the hem of his shirt. “I don’t know what your deal is, and frankly I don’t want to see you around here anymore.”

“Well, I do go to school here now so…” Minyard was strutting off before Neil even finished speaking. He huffed in annoyance at the retreating figure and cursed him under his breath. “You asshole…”

Minyard turned around and narrowed his eyes as if he could hear him despite being multiple feet down the hall. Neil quickly pretended to tie his shoes until Minyard fully disappeared from the hallway. He would never admit it out loud but he found the shorter guy interesting. He was like a rage filled chihuahuas. Neil reached to run his hand over the fabric Minyard had gripped. He did not think too much about it then, but he found himself replaying the instance in his head. He turned around and left to continue on with his strange first day.

—

Lunch was a quiet affair for the most part. He sat by himself and got ahead on his homework for the day while listening to some tunes on Wymack’s iPod. He could see himself do this for the next year, once everyone got bored of gossipping about him and his odd appearance. Senior year would end quickly, and then he could move somewhere near the Seattle Hawks’ Exy stadium to catch some games or go back to South Carolina with Abby and Kevin.

After spending most of his childhood surviving insane parents and missing milestones, Neil did not know exactly what he wanted to do with the rest of his life. Wymack and Abby had been kind enough to adopt him once Wymack found him on the street while patrolling. That had been before Abby moved away to pursue her full time medical residency in South Carolina, taking both Neil and Kevin with her. Kevin was now starting his first year at an in-state college with a sports scholarship paying full tuition. Abby worked long hours but seemed fulfilled, but thought it would be best for Neil to stay with Wymack as she completed the more strenuous first years of residency. Even though Neil was not a big fan of being the new kid, he did not have great attachments to anyone in his previous school.

It was lonely, but he was fine.

Fine was quiet. Fine was safe. Until his quiet was disrupted by the high pitched voice of Elle Woods’ doppelganger. The tall blonde girl extended her hand and Neil took it hesitantly. She shone her pearly smile his way, and if he was a little bit more normal, he might have even found himself attracted to her. She sat down next to him without a second thought.

“I’m Allison. What’s your name, babe?”

He ignored the nickname. “Neil,” he answered.

He went back to do his math homework as Allison chatted off about how they would become the best of friends. He did not terribly mind her presence. After all, she was the only person to be nice to him thus far.

Neil found himself stuck on a particularly complex differential calculus problem. He tapped his pencil on his leg as he tried to concentrate, but Allison’s voice was a bit distracting.

“I can help you with that.” She said and snatched the pencil off his hand. She looked at the problem for a few seconds and immediately got to work. Neil followed the steps off her scratchwork in silence, and she looked up to face him with a radiant smile. “Boom.”

Neil sincerely thanked her and tried at a small smile, which she warmly rewarded with a pat on his shoulder.

“See? Us. Best friends.”

“Sure.” Neil replied amusedly and shook his head. People in Forks were somehow stranger than him. Maybe he would not significantly stand out as he thought.

Neil put his notes away and listened to Allison go on about how she hated Forks and wished she could go back to California, but she was not on good terms with her parents. Neil knew a lot about trouble with parents. She said she was staying with her aunt for the time being, and Neil shared that he was staying with his adopted father until graduation, after which he would go Godknowswhere. Allison proudly stated she would go to New York and become the creative director for her own fashion house. Neil did not doubt her for one second.

Allison’s attention eventually veered off to the distance and her words came to a halt. Neil followed her gaze and found it situated on a girl with light platinum hair with colorful highlights, who was strangely enough conversing with the asshole fully clad in black. She did not look like someone Minyard would sit in lunch with, less be friends with. But they seemed to be fully immersed in some argument.

Neil took another look at Allison and raised an eyebrow once she broke away from the trance the colorful girl had sucked her into.

“Renee Walker. She would be perfect if it weren’t for the monsters she hangs around with.”

“That’s a bit mean, Allison.” A girl with red hair brighter than Neil’s set her tray on their table to Allison’s right. She introduced herself as Kate, and complimented his hair. After Neil returned the compliment, a loud bang from Minyard’s table bounced across the lunch room. A guy who looked just like Minyard gave him the dirtiest look, but there was no reason for him to do so. The tables were far away enough that there was nothing Neil could have possibly done to upset him.

“What is Aaron’s problem?” Allison rolled her eyes. Minyard’s brother – Aaron, lifted his fist from the table and continued to eat like nothing happened.

“I guess Minyard and twin are just as weird as the other.” Neil said quietly.

“You talked to the psycho?”

“His name is Andrew.” Katelyn added with an exasperated huff.

“Andrew.” Neil repeated.

“Yes, he and his family moved here about a year ago. And they have mostly kept to themselves. The girl with the colorful hair is Renee– Andrew and Aaron’s older sister. The curly haired guy is Nicky, their cousin.”

Neil stared at the unconventional bunch with intrigue. He very rarely found himself curious about the people around him. He learned to remain observant, for his survival, cataloguing people as a potential threat or not. But he never felt genuine interest in the people he observed before. His eyes were involuntarily stuck on Andrew. He noticed he had a piercing on his eyebrow, and a small round one sticking out from under his lip. His hair was shorter than his twin’s, who did not sport any jewelry except for a slim golden chain tucked under his dark blue shirt. Andrew also wore black armbands, and Aaron did not. They were easy enough to differentiate, which made it easier if Neil would keep seeing Andrew around for the next couple of years.

He must have been staring for too long, because Andrew turned his hazel eyes sharply to peer into his own. To his own surprise, Neil did not feel like immediately averting his gaze and felt something warm swim around his gut.

Andrew did not stop staring at him either, and Neil’s neck felt warm all over. Neil was the one to first look away.

Allison and Katelyn did not seem to notice or particularly care about the weird interaction, if one could even call it that. Neil felt like it only happened in his head. He turned back to his lunch and forced himself not to shoot another glance at The Monsters’ table.

–
The next day, it was rainy and awful, as it had been Neil’s first day at Forks. He had not gone on his morning run at Wymack’s insistence. The man said Abby would kill him if he let Neil run out in these conditions. Neil reminded him that Abby had no way of knowing because she was thousands of miles across the country.

“I don’t know how your mom does it, but she knows everything, Neil.” Wymack said conspiratorially and Neil did not argue any further. He drove to school on the old truck he had begged Wymack for. He stepped outside and adjusted his raincoat as he heard frantic shouts. It was too late before he realized they were directed at none other than himself. He turned around to see a car sliding towards him, and despite his athletic ability, he could not move away fast enough. He braced for impact and a disturbing thought crossed his mind. This would be a pathetic way to go considering all the trouble he had undergone escaping his dad as a child.

Neil tried to outrun it, but slipped on the wet pavement. He felt no pain. He must have died on impact then. How merciful that his death was not a painful one as he always thought it would be. He opened his eyes slowly expecting to see nothingness, but instead worried hazel eyes met his own. Why was Andrew Minyard in heaven?

“Are you alright?” Andrew’s scratchy voice enveloped his surroundings and muted the frantic murmurs and scared phone calls to 911 around him.

“I’m fine.” Neil said and shook his head rapidly. Andrew placed a hand behind his neck.

“Don’t shake your head. You might be concussed.”

“But I don’t feel like I was hit. You…” Neil’s eyebrows furrowed in confusion as he looked around the scene he was in. Andrew had a palm braced against the large truck and another one traced soft circles on his nape. “What the hell…”

Before he could get another word out, Andrew had jumped over the hood of the car and disappeared as if he was never there. Neil was soon surrounded by other students and unfamiliar faces. They kept asking him if he was hurt and Neil was getting overwhelmed.

“Oh god, I’m so sorry!” The guy driving the car apologized frantically. Despite Neil’s confusion of the whole situation, he still recognized the guy as someone from his calculus class due to his spikey hair.

“Neil!” Allison broke through the crowd and carefully placed her arms around his middle to prop him up. “Everyone, move!” She yelled and she walked him towards her sleek red car.

“I’m fine.”

“You need to see a doctor, Neil.”

“I said I’m fine.”

As Allison walked him down to her car, Neil caught sight of Andrew’s little group. Aaron had that same stinking expression, scowling at him. Renee remained impassive and Nicky looked away as soon as he met Neil’s eyes.

–

He did end up going to the doctor against his will. Allison had also banned the phrase “I’m fine” from his vocabulary until further notice. Neil crossed his arms in annoyance and did not say another word until they reached the urgent care of Forks Hospital.

“Neil!” Wymack ran to his side and gently held his arm. “Goodness, it’s only your second day here, kid. You’re going to give me a heart attack.”

“I’m fi–”

Allison loudly sighed.

“I’m okay, dad.” Neil insisted. But Wymack did not hear it. Instead he fussed and went on about how if Abby heard of this, Neil would never be allowed to stay at Forks with him ever again.

“I heard the chief’s son was here.” A tall blonde woman in a doctor’s coat walked through the door. She had pale skin and a pearly white smile. Her hair was tied in a sleek back bun and her face was adorned with thin glasses.

“Dr. Dobson.” Wymack turned to greet her.

“Wymack.” She patted his shoulder casually. Dr. Dobson walked around the stretcher Neil sat on and grabbed some medical forms.

“Nathaniel.” She read from the paper.

Neil suppressed a shiver that almost shook him out of his entire skin. “I go by Neil.”

“Well, Neil, how do you feel?”

“Okay.”

Dr. Dobson smiled softly. “Good. Your vitals seem fine. You got lucky.” Dr. Dobson continued to write on her notepad and explain that Neil might deal with some PTSD. Neil suppressed a laugh at that. Out of all things, this little not-incident would not be the main topic of his nightmares.

“You know, it would have been a whole lot worse if Andrew hadn’t been there to move me out of the way.” Neil stated. He noticed a slight shift in Dr. Dobson’s relaxed demeanor. Her shoulders raised almost imperceptibly.

“Andrew? Your boy?” Wymack asked Dr. Dobson.

“Yes, he was so fast. He was not even near me.” Neil kept his eyes trained on Dr. Dobson. She did not lift her gaze up from her notepad as she continued to scribble, but she smiled softly at him once she discharged him.

“Sounds like you were very lucky then.” She shook Wymack’s hand and stepped outside with them. Neil thought her response to Neil telling him about her son somehow saving his life was terribly odd. It just continued to support Neil’s idea that there was something incredibly off about this entire town.

“Did you see that?” He asked Wymack as they walked down the hospital hallway.

“See what?”

“Dr. Dobson was acting so weird when I mentioned Andrew getting to me so fast.”

“Well, Betsy works long hours. She might be exhausted from today already.”

“What? No.” Neil felt annoyance creep up. He crossed his arms over his chest and explained to his dad what happened in detail. Wymack thought that perhaps Andrew had been standing closer to Neil than his son had noticed. He noticed Neil getting progressively more frustrated and excused himself to go sign some hospital papers and return Abby’s 50 calls. “Your mom is going to kill me.”

Neil found himself staring at the distance as his dad walked away. Then he spotted the Minyard twins and Dr. Dobson talking down the hallway. He heard faint angry murmurs from Aaron towards Andrew, but he could not make out what they were talking about. He walked towards them and asked if he could speak with Andrew for a minute. Dr. Dobson nodded at him and started to walk away, but Aaron lingered a second after just to give Neil another one of his dirty up-and-down looks. He eventually left and it was just Andrew and Neil by themselves now. Neil cleared his throat and met Andrew’s eyes, which were tracing his face slowly.

Neil broke the awkward silence. “How did you get to me so fast?”

“I was standing right next to you, Neil.”

Neil blinked slowly and did not stifle his laugh this time. “You were not. You were standing right next to your car across the lot with Aaron and Renee. And then suddenly you knocked me out of the way.”

Andrew smirked and reached for a cigarette inside his jean pocket. “You hit your head pretty hard, huh?” He wrapped his lips around the cigarette and twirled it around. Neil was getting distracted.

“No. I did not hit my head because you pushed me away.” He was getting increasingly annoyed with the guy. If that was even possible at this point. Andrew reached for his lighter and lit up the cig despite the multiple signs stating not to smoke inside the hospital. He took a slow drag and blew the smoke in his face. Neil did not wince away, and only narrowed his eyes further in suspicion. “You are bluffing. You stopped the van.”

Andrew removed the cigarette from his lips and stepped closer. Neil found himself trapped between Andrew’s frame and the wall behind him. The guy was at least two inches shorter than him, but his presence was bigger than everyone in the building’s combined. Neil noticed how broad his shoulders were as he caged Neil in. He kept his eyes trained on Andrew’s cigarette as he put it out against the wall right by his head, a few inches away from lighting his red hair on fire. He leaned even closer and Neil felt the hair at the back of his neck stand up as the blond whispered into his ear.

“Well, who’s going to believe you?”

Neil’s eyes widened as Andrew stepped back with that same infuriating smirk on his face and saluted him with two fingers pressed against his temple before retreating the same way Dr. Dobson and Aaron left. Neil let out a shaky breath and felt that same unfamiliar warmth creep up his neck.

“I was not going to tell anybody!” Neil yelled after Andrew whose steps stuttered almost imperceptibly as he registered Neil’s words. He did not turn around and continued walking away, taking all of the answers to Neil’s questions with him. Neil stifled a frustrated groan, and decided to go home and plan a nearby trip out of this unsettling town.

–

Matt Boyd felt extremely guilty over almost crushing Neil to death. He followed him around school to apologize excessively. Neil reassured him that it was okay and that he was fine because Andrew had reached him on time. Matt seemed just as unbelieving as everyone else, and felt even more apologetic after concluding that Neil must have truly hit his head pretty badly. Neil kept insisting that he was not concussed and that Andrew was actually there, but Matt just nodded his head to appease him despite his apparent disbelief and let the topic go.

They fell into each others’ steps, talking about their favorite Exy teams after Neil spotted Matt’s Hawks keychain. At that moment, Neil decided that Matt was his friend. He liked the guy. He was kind, funny, knowledgeable about Exy, and 6’0 tall. That was almost a foot taller than Andrew, meaning that having Matt on his side would guarantee their victory if I fight with Minyard ever were to occur.

“Do you play, Neil?”

“Me? Oh, well I used to be a while back in my previous school but I am out of practice.”

“What position did you play? Let me guess…” Matt gave him a onceover. “Definitely a striker.”

Neil tried to hide his surprise and just nodded in confirmation. Matt went on about how the school’s team was missing a striker, and that Neil should definitely try out. Neil said he was unsure and that he still wanted to adjust to Forks before committing himself to a sport. Matt was slightly disappointed but told him that they also have Spring tryouts and that he should join after winter break. Neil promised that he would think about it.

Matt said his goodbyes and walked over excitedly towards a tall girl with medium length curly hair. Neil assumed that must be his girlfriend and had his observations confirmed once Matt pulled her by the waist and kissed her to the dismay of students around her.

No PDA on the hallways, Boyd! Someone yelled from across the lockers, making Neil amusedly huff.

He felt eyes on him, and he turned around to Andrew looking at him intently from down the hall. Andrew stepped around the corner he came from and tried walking away, but Neil had already seen him and ran after him.

“Andrew!” He called after him. The blond halted his stride and turned around, lifting a questioning eyebrow towards Neil’s way. “May I have a word?”

“Recently you have a lot of things to say to me.” Andrew had that impassive look on his face again, and Neil felt himself grow hot all over, slightly embarrassed. “What do you want from me?”

“I want the truth.”

“And what is in it for me?”

“Anything you want. I just want to know.” Neil stepped closer in what he hoped was a display of conviction.

Andrew stepped closer and his eyes moved down to Neil’s mouth. “You don’t want to know what I want.”

Neil took a deep breath, “Try me.”

“I want you to stop playing detective. And I want you out of my school.”
Neil wanted to scoff at ‘my school’ but decided against it, “I cannot do that.”

“Why must you torture me?” He said exasperated.

“I have not done anything to you.”

“You just being here is enough.”

“I don’t understand.” Neil was out of his depth.

“Of course you don’t.” Andrew supplied and turned around to leave.

Neil was about to follow him, but Aaron joined his brother in his walk towards the exit. And suddenly, Neil did not feel so confident interrogating Andrew anymore with someone else present. His interactions with Andrew were always so short, and left him even more confused than before. Neil sighed, readjusted his backpack and went to his next class.

—

Allison was excitedly talking about the upcoming Homecoming dance and discussed with Katelyn their potential dates at a courtyard table.Matt had also joined them this time, with his girlfriend, Dan, who is captain of their school’s Exy team and could not refrain herself from trying to recruit Neil. Allison tried to encourage Neil by saying that she would try out for the team when Neil did, which did not help the situation at all. This was the peer pressure Abby and Wymack had warned him about.

While Allison, Matt, and Dan discussed what the line up would look like when Neil and Allison joined, Katelyn was seemingly staring off into the distance. Neil followed her line of sight to meet the other Minyard twin– the less interesting and scary of the two in his honest opinion. He was walking towards the table with the rest of his gang when he turned around to look back inquisitively at Katelyn, who blushed and rapidly turned away.

Neil pretended he was doing his homework all this time when Katelyn looked his way. And they didn’t acknowledge what just happened.

“So Neil, has anyone asked you to the dance?” Allison asked. Neil stiffened and felt himself blush slightly. At his lack of answer, his friends began to sing a chorus of excited and conspiratory ooo’s, which seemed to catch Andrew’s attention because he threw a glare in their table’s direction.

“So who is the lucky one?” Dan asked.

“I didn’t say yes. I am not going to the dance.” Neil stated.

“What? Why?” Allison asked like she was personally organizing the dance herself. “I am in the preparation committee!”

Oh well…

“Neil.” Someone interrupted the table’s chatter. Neil turned around to face a girl with a green ribbon tied high in her brown hair. She carried a small poster and a rose in her other hand. Neil felt his heart drop all the way down to his feet.

“I know we don’t know each other too well yet, but you are in my Spanish class.”

“Oh, yes, Marissa, right?”

“Yes. I… I wanted to ask if you’d like to go to the dance with me.” She said shyly, her cheeks red and her eyes drooped low. Katelyn said an encouraging awee and Neil felt dizzy with nerves and guilt. He opened his mouth to reply, when suddenly someone pulled on his arm. Andrew Minyard tugged on his sleeve insistently, “Follow me.”

Neil did not have to be told twice. He fled the scene, grateful for Andrew’s presence for the second time. Andrew kept saving him from atrocious situations. He followed him quietly through and out of the school grounds, still being pulled by his sleeve. Neil stopped walking once they reached Andrew’s sleek black car.

Andrew opened the passenger’s door for him. “Get in.”

“Am I getting kidnapped?” Neil narrowed his eyes in suspicion. Why was Andrew wanting to spend time with him all of a sudden?

Andrew simply rolled his eyes and got into the driver’s seat. Neil got inside the car. “Seatbelt.” Andrew supplied unhelpfully.

“What am I? Four?”

“Could have fooled me.”

“You are shorter than me.” Neil obeyed and strapped his seatbelt.

Andrew did not answer that jab and just pulled out quickly out of the parking lot. Neil gripped the dashboard as Andrew sped through neighborhoods. He was a reckless driver and Neil’s heart felt like it would soon jump out of his chest. He tried to calm his breathing down and just remain grateful that he was getting home early while his truck was still being checked out. But Andrew was now driving over 70mph in residential streets, making insane turns that no human reaction time could ever make.

“What the hell!” He yelled once Andrew flew over a speed bump. Andrew just grinned like this was the most exciting roller coaster in the world.

Once they parked in Wymack’s driveway, Neil unstrapped his seatbelt and swung the door open. He stepped outside with shaky legs and a queasy stomach. He was about to sit down on the floor, but Andrew was suddenly at his side, holding both of his elbows to keep him upright.

“You are crazy!” Neil pushed him away frantically and began walking to his front door. As to how Andrew knew where he lived, he did not care to stay a minute longer to find out. He knocked on the door. He did not have his keys on him.

“You forgot your keys.”

Neil did not turn around to get it. He was so angry at Andrew. He could not stand the sight of him for a minute longer. “Keep them, asshole.”

“How will you get inside without your keys?” Andrew dangled the keys from his finger mockingly. Neil knew Wymack was home because his car was in the driveway, alongside another truck he had not seen before. Neil wondered if his dad was in the backyard downing beers with a friend and would not come to open the front door fast enough before Minyard killed him.

“I’ll find a way.” Neil stood stubbornly without facing Andrew. He kept his back straight as he heard Andrew’s footsteps approach him from behind. He closed his eyes and held his breath when he felt Andrew’s chest touch his back as his right hand slowly dropped the keys into Neil’s back jeans pocket.

“Goodbye, Neil.” He whispered and walked to his car. Neil did not relax his back until he heard the car drive away.

Whatever he thought about Andrew before had been wiped away. Neil was now convinced that the guy was batshit crazy. He exhaled a long breath and reached for the keys in his back pocket. He froze once he felt a slip of paper next to the keys. He huffed in annoyance, anger, and disbelief, and opened the door. He did not even go to the backyard to let Wymack know he was home. He just ran up the stairs, locked himself in his room, and tried to get Andrew Minyard out of his head.

–

Saturday morning came around with a slight drizzle and promising forecasts of bright skies the rest of the day.

Neil stretched out of bed and got ready for his morning run. He had missed the routine, having been interrupted by the tempestuous skies and the early school hours. After putting on his running shorts and shoes, he headed downstairs and heard three men’s voices coming from the kitchen.

“Good morning, son.” Wymack handed him a plate of scrambled eggs and toast. Neil thanked him and sat down at the kitchen counter with the older man and a guy around his age.

“This is Bill Black and his son James.” Wymack introduced them and they both nodded at him politely. Bill said he had heard a lot about him and that he was glad to meet him.

“How’s the truck?” James asked with an amused glint to his eye.

“It’s fine.” Neil replied while finishing his breakfast.

“My dad and I helped Wymack fix it for you.”

“Oh… well, thank you. You did a great job.” Neil stood up to put his plate away and get ready to head out.

“Don’t try going over sixty though. It’ll turn into a useless chunk of metal.” James tried to make conversation.

“Well, I’ll keep that in mind.” Neil nodded.

“So has Forks driven you insane yet?” James asked, grinning.

“That is an understatement.” Neil added before walking into the foyer and out the door for his run. James yelled “See you again soon!” after him as he fell into pace and ran away from his driveway.

Neil saw James many times after that first interaction. Bill was one of Wymack’s closest friends, so they hung around together a lot on the weekends. Neil thought James was alright. The guy was one year younger than him despite being way taller, and both of them liked sports. James played football and made a stink about Neil preferring Exy. Neil explained that it was the game his dad, Kevin, and he played together. When James asked why he didn’t play it anymore, Neil answered truthfully for once.

“I don’t feel the same excitement about things anymore like I used to.”

James did not offer pity or judgment. He just nodded quietly at Neil and said that he was welcome over to his place anytime he felt like having some good natured athletic fun with him and his siblings. Neil greatly appreciated his reaction, or rather lack thereof, and they continued to talk about living in Forks while roasting marshmallows around the firepit.
–
The following weekend Neil and his friends went to the beach. It was windy and Allison kept wistfully reminiscing about the sunny California beaches, but the sky was still clear enough to be enjoyable. James had joined them too and had fit right into Neil's friend group despite being a grade younger. No one cared and neither did Neil.

They fell into a silly game of tag and eventually sat on blankets to have a picnic. Katelyn had brought treats, and Dan brought sandwiches for everyone. Neil shared a cozy blanket with Matt, and James offered him some hand warmers. Neil thanked him and sat down quietly, listening to the soft lull of the waves.

A conversation was being held in the background but Neil was not really listening. He was zoning out, thinking about hazel eyes, arms mysteriously covered in black fabric, and theories of superhuman speed.

“I invited Aaron but he couldn’t make it.” Katelyn said to Allison. That caught his attention and he turned back to face the group.

“Minyard?” James asked disdainfully.

“Yes.” Katelyn blushed and averted her gaze down to the blanket.

“They’re not really allowed around here, you know.” James added and took a bite of his sandwich.

Neil trained his eyes on him curiously but did not speak a word. James caught his inquisitive look and clarified what he meant. He explained that Andrew’s family was not allowed in reservation owned lands, because of the long history between their ancestors. James did not supply him with any more information, but Neil’s curiosity had been awakened once again.

Later in the night when everyone headed home, James and Neil stood on Wymack’s wooden porch. Neil stood up against the railing facing James instead of heading immediately inside. He fiddled with the strings of his jackets as the taller guy looked down at him quietly. Neil gathered enough courage to lift his head up and ask, “Can you tell me the full story about the Minyard-Dobsons and your tribe?”

James hesitated, stuttered, and eventually nodded. He questioned Neil’s interest in the Minyard twins. But Neil just stated that he simply had a curious streak. James resigned and explained the tale of how the Quileutes were descended from wolves, and the Dr. Dobson’s family and the wolves were centuries old enemies.

Neil’s breath caught. “Centuries old?”

“As in an ancestry feud, Neil. But it is just a legend after all.”

“Right.” Neil nodded. He did not push any further, and eventually went inside after a few more minutes of polite conversation with James. Neil was not a big fan of hugs, but he did not mind James pulling him into a friendly one to say goodnight. James ran warm. It felt good having friends again. He felt the icy loneliness in his chest thaw and melt away slowly.

“Well, I’ll see you around, Neil. Stay safe.” James smiled down at him. Before Neil could even register what was happening, James’ lips were softly pressing down on his temple. Neil could not even react before James was speed-walking away towards his truck and pulling out of the driveway. Neil felt his lips tug upward just slightly, and he went inside.

He took his shoes and jacket off in the foyer quietly, trying not to wake Wymack up.

“He is a nice kid.”

Neil jumped and clutched his chest, as he turned to face his dad sitting on the couch with a sports magazine in his hand and a hot mug of who-knows-what in the other. Neil caught his breath and shook his head. “You scared the shit out of me.” He whisper-yelled, as if there was anyone else in the house but the two of them.

“Abby would not like your language.” Wymack took a slow sip from his mug.

Neil huffed fondly and walked over to his dad. He sat on the couch’s arm and leaned over to grab a hold of Wymack’s drink. He took a careful sip and grimaced at the overwhelmingly sweet taste. “What the hell is this?”

“Strawberry hot chocolate?”

“It’s so sweet. I hoped it was tea.”

“Living with your mom messed up your tastebuds.”

“You are too old to be playing with your glycemic levels like this.”

“Go to your room, young man.” Wymack huffed.

Neil did not have to be told twice. He locked himself in his room and pulled out his laptop. He lowered the brightness and volume and settled comfortably under the covers as he looked up Quileute legends. Neil felt like he was doing something illegal looking up stuff about werewolves and superhuman abilities. More than that, he felt more of a freak than usual. Forks might have actually been driving him insane.

He stumbled upon many artifact archives and testimonies of spotting giant wolves around Washington during hikes. He kept scrolling and eventually found a disturbingly detailed drawing of a young man being drunk dry by a vampire. Neil had considered many things before. Radioactive insects and gamma radiation, but he did not think once about vampires. He read more. Superhuman speed. Never seen in the sun. Pale skin. Enticing eyes. What James had said about his family’s ancestral feud with the Dobsons guided him in this particular direction and it was a rabbit hole Neil was willing to fall into if it meant getting closer to uncovering the truth about Andrew.

–

Neil saw Andrew again during biology class. He walked to his seat, Andrew’s eyes following him all the way until he plopped down next to him without giving him a glance. Neil kept his face impassive, trying not to reveal the myriad of emotions swirling on his mind. He did not want his face to betray how much his thoughts were consumed by the guy next to him.

“Good morning, Neil.” Andrew smiled sweetly at him, all faux-politeness.

“Andrew.” Neil did not look his way. He was still annoyed about the other night.

“Is your truck back to its pristine state?”

Neil felt his jaw tighten. “Yes, Andrew. Thanks for asking.”

Andrew snickered.

Neil turned to the teacher and listened in on the lecture. Today, the class would be testing and identifying each other’s blood types. Mr. Wallace announced that Port Angeles was holding a blood donation drive this weekend, and that he thought it would be good for everyone to know their blood type going in.

Neil felt Andrew stiffen beside him as Mr. Wallace explained how they’d have to prick their finger for a drop of blood for the test kit. Neil found it terribly amusing and he couldn’t hold his laugh. “What? Scared of needles?”

Andrew rolled his eyes. “You want to go first, tough guy?”

Neil shrugged and held his palm up to Andrew’s face. Andrew grabbed his wrist and gently pricked his finger, squeezing a drop of blood into the testing kit. Neil observed Andrew’s face while this happened. He seemed focused and his jaw was tight. His eyes also looked odd, almost red in appearance. Andrew continued to stare at Neil’s bleeding finger, and then he proceeded to softly rub circles on his palm. Neil’s breath hitched and whatever quip he had prepared died in his throat from the surprise. Andrew proceeded to look him straight in the eyes, and Neil saw the vibrant red of his irises. He felt like he was dreaming and what Andrew did next did not tether him anymore to reality. Andrew raised Neil’s hand up to his lips and gently kissed his bleeding finger.

Neil rapidly stood up from his seat, the metal stool making a loud scratching sound that had all of his classmates looking at him with annoyed expressions. He excused himself and ran to the bathroom. Luckily, no one was inside to see his panicked state. Neil ran his hand under cold water and splashed his face repeatedly.

He closed his eyes and shut off the water. He took a deep calming breath. This was not happening. Andrew was not a vampire. He was going crazy.

“Neil.”

Neil felt his heart skip several beats as he jumped surprised. “Shit!” He yelled when he slipped on a wet spot on the bathroom floor. Andrew caught him by the arm, propping him up against one of the sinks. “You keep scaring the living shit out of me!” Neil’s nostrils flared. Andrew would kill him one day.

“Sorry, but I wanted to talk to you.”

Neil narrowed his eyes, confusion overcoming him. “And you had to follow me all the way here?”

“Well, I…” Andrew looked almost shy, which he never did. “I wanted to talk with you in private.”

“Andrew, I don’t understand you. You are an asshole to me on the first day of school and then tell me you want me out of your life, but then you follow me around everywhere. You save me from getting crushed by a van, but you lie about it. It’s as if you regret it! And then, you try to kill me driving like a maniac! And then you kiss my finger? And follow me here, saying how you now want to talk with me privately all of a sudden? You are so confusing!” Neil yelled in frustration. Andrew just blinks at him with that same impassive expression on his face. It just makes Neil even angrier and he grips the sink until his knuckles turn white.

“I do not regret saving you.” Andrew said quietly, staring deep into Neil’s eyes.

Neil gasped at that. “So you admit it?”

“Admit what?” Andrew smirked.

“You are impossible!” Neil huffed and pulled on his hair.

“I’ll tell you what’s impossible. How you are the only person in my entire existence who I haven’t been able to read. How I cannot predict you. I have no idea what is going on in your head and I cannot get you out of mine since the moment you sat next to me in class. I wish I never ever met you. You drive me absolutely insane.” Andrew huffed. Neil remained silent, eyes widened as he took in the sight of Andrew taking deep, isolated breaths.

“I guess that makes two of us.” Neil whispered. He held Andrew’s stare defiantly.

Andrew stepped closer to him, trapping him in between him and the sink. The entire bathroom felt so small. Neil held his breath. Andrew inched closer, taking up all of Neil’s personal space. Neil felt Andrew’s hot breath fan over his lips and his eyes fell closed as he breathed his scent in. Everything around him was Andrew. He forgot where he was and what he was doing. He did not care, as he felt a pull towards Andrew.

The bathroom door swung open and Andrew rapidly stepped back. A tall guy quickly looked at them both and awkwardly went into a stall to do his business.

Neil sighed. He looked at Andrew, whose fists were opening and closing in what seemed like an attempt to ground himself. Neil ran out of the bathroom and went into his truck. He had to leave this place. He felt confused and his first instinct had always been to run. So he did. He pulled out of the school parking lot and took the roads to the freeway. He’d go to Port Angeles, walk around, catch his breath, maybe go watch a nearby Exy night practice. Anything to take his mind off the weirdness of Forks, and his unfamiliar, erratic, and unusually strong feelings towards Andrew.

He drove for about an hour and reached Port Angeles. He sat at a dock for about an hour and went into some antique stores. He found an Exy store and talked with the vendor for a couple of hours. The man was a big Seattle Hawks fan and had a son around Neil’s age. His name was José, and he played collegiate Exy in his youth, but tore his ACL during a particularly rowdy match. Neil heard his story and told the man he used to play when he was younger.

“You definitely have the height.” He said and Neil just laughed. José gave him a free Hawks pin, which Neil thanked him for with a bright smile on his face. José showed him pictures of his wife and son, and said they were expecting a daughter.

By the time he walked out of the store, it was nighttime. Neil felt more calm, and he was happy with his decision to ditch school to get out of Forks. He decided it was time to go home and it was a 20 minute walk away from where he found a free parking spot. He began the walk, and found himself going through a dark alley. He thought he must have gotten lost, because he did not remember it looking this sketchy. He went to turn back out of the alley, but he saw the shadows of two tall men covering the exit. They were just staring at him, unmoving, but then started to approach him. Neil quickly walked the other way, but three other men sprung out of nowhere, one of them grabbing his arm and laughing.

Neil’s ears rang. He was definitely outnumbered and surrounded.

“Give us all you have.”

Neil gave him all his cash. He did not give his truck keys, and he hoped they would not pat him down to check if he had anything else on him. He needed the keys to get home.

Neil looked down at his shoes and went to move away and leave, expecting the guys to leave him alone after he had complied, but the man in front of him pushed him back, and another guy tightly gripped his arm.

“I gave you all I have.” Neil said. Anger slipped into his voice but he was certain he’d lose this fight miserably, and he did not feel like dying tonight.

The man in front of him stepped closer and harshly gripped his chin, forcing Neil to look up at him. His neck strained uncomfortably at the angle and the man huffed. He turned Neil’s head around for the other men to examine, and they all nodded in silent agreement.

“Yeah, he’s pretty.” He heard one of them say. Neil was over it and tried to disentangle himself from the man’s grip. The man’s grip only tightened as he laughed loudly. Neil remembered every physical altercation he’d had with his imprisoned biological dad growing up, and he mustered the strength to throw a backwards kick, successfully hitting the man right in the balls. He fell to the ground and made a run for it past the startled man in front of him, but he felt a painful tug on his hair. Neil winced as he was suddenly pulled back into a chokehold by the man’s strong arm.

“Don’t be like that…” The man pulled again on his hair. “I haven’t had my fun with you yet, sugar.”

Neil struggled as he felt the man’s free hand squeeze his waist, his hand dipping lower to grope around his thigh. The man huffed in his ear, before nipping it with his teeth.

Neil gagged in disgust, which infuriated the man. Neil swung his head sideways, hitting the man right on his nose. The other man grunted as another short figure punched the taller one in the gut, violently flinging him against the brick wall. Neil turned towards the newcomer, and he caught the furious eyes of none other than Andrew Minyard. He kept punching the stucky man on the floor, and Neil heard bones crack, but he had no time to question it as he continued to fight the remaining men off.

Neil felt an arm around his neck, and he bit hard on it, drawing blood. The man shrieked and cursed at him as he tried to punch Neil, but Andrew had it handled as he grabbed the man’s arm and swung him all the way across the alleyway with ease. A disgusting crunch resonated in the now silent darkness. One bleeding guy on the floor tried to grab Andrew’s foot, but he kicked him in the face, staining his boots with blood.

Neil’s chest was heaving. He looked up and met Andrew’s furious, red eyes. Various black veins ran down his cheeks and Andrew quickly looked down to the floor to hide his face from Neil’s examining gaze.

“Run away, Neil.”

Neil did not run this time. He only stepped closer and closer to Andrew until he was within reach. Neil angled his head so he could take a look at Andrew’s face, who took in angry deep breaths. “For once, listen to me.” Andrew muttered, but did not step back away from Neil.

Neil took another step closer and raised his hand tentatively. His eyebrows furrowed, intrigued. He braced himself for any possible reaction to his question. “Can I?”

Andrew did not move. He just looked at Neil’s raised hand with surprise, confusion coloring his face. Neil slowly inched his hand closer as if he were to pet a feral cat. Andrew did not move away, and moved closer almost imperceptibly. Neil pressed two fingers against Andrew’s pale and soft skin. He softly traced the black lines running up Andrew’s cheek until they met his eye. Neil’s forefinger traced his waterline slowly, brushing against each eyelash in wonder. Andrew’s skin was ice cold. Neil gasped at the coldness and softness of it.

“You are amazing.” He breathed softly.

Andrew’s eye twitched, and he growled furiously at Neil before grabbing his forearm in a bruising grip and dragging him out of the alley.

“Wait! My truck is not this way.” Neil strained against Andrew’s hold but could not break free. Andrew only held tighter, making Neil wince. Andrew flung the passenger’s side door open, and threw Neil inside despite his protests. Neil insisted that he could drive back home himself as Andrew fastened his seatbelt for him with a death glare.

“Shut up.” He said and slammed the passenger door shut. Andrew got into the driver’s seat and sped away angrily.

The drive was quiet at first. Neil had a hundred thoughts running wildly around his head. He could not believe this was real life, and Andrew Minyard was in fact a vampire. He quickly concluded that must mean Aaron Minyard was too, as well as Renee and Nicky. Then, he thought about how insane it would be if Dr. Dobson was a vampire as well, considering she was around blood all the time. Then, he thought of Andrew kissing his bleeding finger in biology class, which he thought was strange– only adding to his suspicions. Meaning, the Dobsons had great self-control, if they truly drank human blood as the Quileute tales said. He wanted to ask Andrew a million questions about himself, his family, the centuries long feud James talked about. And suddenly Forks became a hundred times more interesting.

“Distract me.” Andrew demanded, livid.

“You just told me to shut up.”

Andrew sped up aggressively in response.

“Okay! Okay!” Neil exclaimed as his hands shot up to grip the car’s handle.

Andrew waited.

“Um… I used to play Exy with my brother Kevin when I was a child. He is older than me. He goes to Palmetto State now and plays there. I always wanted to be like him, but I’d never admit that to his face. He’s too arrogant as it is. But I miss him at times.”

“Is he as thick headed and self-endangering as you are?”

Neil’s nostrils flared in annoyance. “Thank you, Andrew. For saving my life time, and time, and time again. You are my savior.” Neil recited flatly. “Is that what you want to hear?”

“Do you have any idea about all the things those men planned to do to you?” Andrew asked, his jaw tight.

“Well, I can guess.” Neil crossed his arms protectively over himself.

“But you cannot see it, hear it.”

“No?” Neil turned to face Andrew, who scoffed at his single-word, confused response.

The tension in the car was so thick and the quiet was engulfing them once again before Andrew broke it. “Well, what? Is this your reaction to me being what I am?”

“I have seen scarier things in my lifetime.” Neil shrugged, “And you are not going to hurt me.”

“How can you be so sure?”

“Because I trust you.”

“You are totally fucked in the head.”

“I’ve heard that one before.”

Andrew rolled his eyes and reached for a cigarette. He lit it and smoked it after rolling down the driver’s window. The sight was almost peaceful to Neil. He settled comfortably in the passenger seat and rested his head against his windowpane, listening to the soft tunes on the radio. Neil’s peace was interrupted by the loud grumble of his stomach, which had Andrew turning to him with a judgmental look on his face.

“Eyes on the road.” Neil said, crossing his arms over his stomach. Andrew just rolled his eyes and continued driving until they pulled over at an Italian restaurant. La Bella Italia, the LED sign shone bright. Andrew exited the car and waited for Neil outside of the building.

“What are we doing?” Neil asked as he glanced around uncomfortably. “You still have blood on yourself.”

“It’s empty and dark. No one will notice.” Andrew opened the front door and motioned Neil to walk inside with an impatient nod.

They sat at a small secluded booth, lit by candlelight. Neil ordered a caesar salad and some water. Andrew looked at him as if he was the oddest one out of the two.

“I bring you to an Italian restaurant and you order a salad?”

“I like salad.”

“God, you are so weird.”

“Says Dracula himself.” Neil snorted loudly.

“The newcomer is a comedian.”

“I’m happy to keep you amused.”

“That you do.” Andrew sipped on his water. He had not ordered any food for himself.

“What? You don’t eat anything but the souls of children?”

“I don’t know why I bother with you.” Andrew glared.

“Because you like me.” Neil smiled.

“I hate you.”

Neil laughed and finished up the rest of his meal. “I won’t tell anyone.” Neil said softly.

“I know.” Andrew said after a beat.

“Thank you, Andrew. For everything.” For saving me. For trusting me.

“Just don’t get in trouble again.”

Neil felt warmth spread across his chest, but this time he recognized it as fondness, interest– maybe even what people referred to as a crush. He mentally kicked himself. That’d be foolish. He had never had a crush before and he would not start now.

“How did you find me?”

“I followed you.”

“Well, I guessed that part. But how did you find me in the alley?” Neil trained his eyes on Andrew intensely. He still remained very confused about that part.

“I saw you in their heads.” Andrew said, that angry lilt returning to his tone.

Neil nodded in understanding. He had read something about vampire’s special abilities, some of them possessing psychic abilities.

“Can you see inside my head?” Neil hoped not. That would be endlessly embarrassing.

“No. Your head might actually be empty.” .

“You’re such an asshole.”

“I’ve heard that one before.” Andrew mocked.

Andrew paid the bill despite Neil’s protests. Andrew had not even ordered anything, but he just slapped Neil’s hand away and told him to stop being irritating. Neil rolled his eyes and sighed, annoyed, but eventually gave in, telling Andrew he would pay next time. Andrew asked if there would be a next time. Neil blushed, which Andrew clearly found amusing, as he extended a probing finger to poke at Neil’s reddened cheek.

Neil somehow blushed even redder.

–

“This is the last truth I’ll ask for.” Neil stated.

Andrew rolled his eyes. “You have said that for the last ten rounds.”

“Well, this is the real last one.” Neil pouted.

“Sure, Neil.”

“How old are you?”

“Eighteen,” Andrew answered promptly.

“How long have you been eighteen?”

“That’s two questions.”

Neil groaned, annoyed. “Come on…”

Andrew’s lips twitched as he stared at the road. “A while,” he admitted at last.

“Okay.” Neil smiled, pleased that Andrew was still playing along with their little game of truths. “Your turn?”

“Who gave you your scars?” Andrew asked.

“How unoriginal. My birth dad.”

“Is he dead?” Andrew’s temper flared.

“That’s two questions.” Neil laughed at Andrew’s frustrated expression. “My turn,” Neil said.

“How can you come out in the sun?”

“Myth.” Andrew answered. “Where is your birth mom?”

“Dead.” Neil said, unflinching. “Do you sleep in a coffin?”

“Myth.” Andrew hesitated for a moment. “I can’t sleep.”

“At all?

“Never.” His voice was nearly inaudible. “You haven’t asked me the most important question of all.”

“Which is?”

“My diet.” Andrew gripped the steering wheel tighter.

“Well, considering you did not eat anything at the restaurant, I guess it’s pretty strict.” Neil tried at a joke. Andrew did not find it funny. “Tough crowd.”

“Neil.” Andrew sighed, impatient.

“If you want me to ask so badly…” Neil rolled his eyes. “Are you vegan?”

“How did you–” Andrew’s eyes widened in surprise. A rare sight.

“Vegans always want everyone to know they are vegan.” Neil laughed but then turned to face Andrew with rare solemnity. “But you didn’t feed on those guys back there, all bleeding and unconscious. It would’ve been the perfect opportunity.”

“You are more observant than I thought.” Andrew grumbled.

“Yeah, well, despite popular belief, I’m not stupid, Andrew. I couldn’t have survived for this long if I was.”

“Right.” Andrew agreed with no mocking or sarcasm in his voice, which Neil appreciated more than he would want to be known.

“Okay.”

“You should remain careful though.” Andrew added. “My family decided to feed off animals for humanity’s well-being, but that’s not the case for every vampire. And we still crave human blood.”

“You wouldn’t hurt me.”

“You keep saying that.”

“You know it’s true”

Andrew’s jaw tightened again. He took a deep breath and kept his eyes trained on the road ahead. The street they were on seemed familiar to Neil and he knew they were close to home. Neil yawned, a bit tired, and caught Andrew looking at him intently. Neil reminded him to keep his eyes on the road for which Andrew smugly stated that he’d never gotten in an accident in his hundreds of years. Neil reminded him that there was a first time for everything.

Andrew pulled over and walked Neil to Wymack’s front door. They said their goodbyes and Neil made Andrew promise that he would not pretend like tonight hadn’t happened the following day. Andrew promised. He never broke his promises. Neil felt reassured and Andrew turned around to leave.

“Andrew.” Neil called after him.

Andrew turned around and lifted an eyebrow at Neil questioningly. Neil stepped closer until Andrew was within reach and he inched forward until his lips were softly pressed against Andrew’s cheek. If Andrew could blush, he would have turned red all over. He stared at Neil dazzled as Neil smirked, retreating and unlocking his front door.

“See you tomorrow, Andrew.”

The front door closed with a soft click. Andrew kept staring at the door for what felt like forever before getting into his car and driving himself home with his phantom heart fluttering wildly inside his ribcage.

–
That night, Neil dreamt of blood. Sharp fangs piercing the soft skin of his neck. His eyes rolling to the back of his head. Fervent kisses pressed against his mouth. And the promise of forever.

–

The following lunch period, Andrew stole Neil for himself and walked him to the woods a mile down the school. They fell into each other’s step. Andrew’s hands in his pocket as he bumped into Neil playfully. Neil bumped into him just as hard but Andrew did not budge one bit.

“Can you at least pretend to budge?”

“Why would I do that?”

Neil huffed. “Whatever.”

They came to a stop and Andrew pulled Neil by his belt loop. He looked down at his shirt curiously and tugged on the shirt’s hem with a small tilt of his head. A wordless question that Neil understood. Neil nodded, and soon after Andrew’s hand had mapped all of the scars on his chest. He traced the line of Neil’s throat gently and glided his nose against his neck.

“Andrew.”

“Yes, Neil?”

“Kiss me.”

Neil did not need to ask twice. Andrew’s cold lips were against his in the blink of an eye. A pleased hum rang through Neil’s body. Andrew wrapped his hands around Neil’s waist, pulling him taut against his chest.

“Touch me only neck and up.” Andrew said.

Neil obeyed without question. He held Andrew’s hair gingerly, and tugged on some strands when the kiss deepened, making the blond hum in satisfaction. Andrew pried Neil’s lips open with his tongue and softly kissed his lower lip before fully diving into Neil’s mouth. Neil felt dizzy. He had never been kissed before and this felt like lightning. He groaned and kissed Andrew back just as fervently. Andrew felt cold, but sweet. Like ice cream. Neil was not a huge fan of sweets, but he was already addicted to Andrew Minyard. Unequivocally and hopelessly obsessed with his taste. He gripped Andrew’s hair more desperately, trying to fuse their bodies together with no avail. He wanted more. He had never wanted something so badly. He was going to be sick.

Andrew pulled away. “Neil, breathe.”

Neil chased Andrew’s mouth, panting like a thirsty man. Andrew only smirked and pulled farther away, to Neil’s increasing frustration.

“Andrew, please.” Neil begged. He never begged. But he’d make an exception if it meant he’d get to be drunk on Andrew Minyard again.

“I don’t like that word.” Andrew said sternly, tightening his grip on Neil’s waist.

“Okay.” Neil nodded solemnly. “I won’t say it again.”

Andrew pressed a quick kiss to Neil’s lip again. And again. And again. Until Neil’s legs felt like jelly and he couldn’t help but melt into Andrew’s arms.

—

Neil ended up in Andrew’s bedroom that night. Andrew was showing him artifacts he had collected over the years. One of them being a 1967 Collegiate Exy medal. Neil did not stop pestering him with questions about being goalie MVP for his collegiate team. Andrew continuously stated that it was not that impressive back then, as the sport had not yet developed into the complicated, high skill game it now was. Neil did not care. He still thought it was the coolest thing ever and he told Andrew he should try out for their high school team despite them graduating in less than a year.

Andrew told him that was a stupid idea. Neil would try again later. They kissed more. Neil never got tired of it.

Andrew showed him his book collection. Neil asked if he had any about advanced calculus. Andrew looked at him as if he’d grown another head. Andrew read him an excerpt of Jane Austen’s Emma. One of his favorite childhood books. Neil asked if Neil had met Jane Austen. Andrew said he was not that old. He also told Neil to shut up and listen to him read.. Neil listened intently, enamored with the scratchy sound of Andrew’s voice. To think he once thought to detest it. Impossible.

They kissed some more, but eventually someone knocked on Andrew’s bedroom door.

“Dinner’s ready.” Nicky said.

Neil wondered if everyone in the house could hear them. He shoved that thought out of his head and adjusted his shirt. He fixed his hair and asked Andrew if he looked okay. Andrew only stared at him with barely disguised want.

Neil walked out the door and down the stairs into the kitchen. Andrew at his side. This was so terribly awkward for Neil. He did not know vampire customs. And he thought him being the only one who could eat the dinner made it even worse. Andrew placed a reassuring hand on his lower back and introduced him to his family.

Dr. Dobson was as radiant as always. He felt utterly vindicated from that hospital visit after the first time Andrew saved him— when Dr. Dobson pretended like he was in the wrong and hallucinating things like everyone believed. As if Andrew could read his mind, which Neil knew was not the case, he felt the blond squeeze his lower back in warning.

Neil put a polite smile on. “Thank you for the dinner, Dr. Dobson.”

“Call me Betsy.” She insisted and served him a plate full of salad.

“Andrew told me you were vegan.” Nicky said. Renee was standing next to Nicky, examining Neil acutely without saying a word.

Neil shot Andrew an amused look. Andrew smirked.

“He’s flaky like a rabbit and eats like one too.” Andrew supplied, unhelpfully and mocking.

“What is that supposed to mean?” Neil glared. Andrew just smiled, finding whatever one-sided joke absolutely hilarious, and pecked Neil on the cheek.

Someone cleared his throat, breaking Neil’s focus from Andrew. That’s when he noticed Aaron was also in the room— glaring daggers at Neil as he always did. Nicky noticed the tension in the room and led everyone to the dinner table.

Neil went to sit next to Andrew, but Aaron rapidly took the one empty seat next to him. Betsy, sitting next to Andrew’s left, looked sympathetic and offered Neil her seat next to her less annoying son. Aaron said that Neil could sit next to Nicky and Renee, and that it’d be rude to make Betsy sit anywhere but at the head of the table.

Andrew rolled his eyes at his twin brother and gave him a glare. Renee laughed, amused and Nicky was more than happy to sit next to Neil. After all, he was convinced he and Neil would become best friends. Neil was not so sure of that.

Renee asked Neil questions about himself, his upbringing, and his faith. The last question confused him a bit as no one had asked him that in Forks before. Renee shared her own story of how she was saved and turned by a kind stranger who wore a cross around his neck. He had found her bleeding out after being physically assaulted for her sexuality. A group of men followed her after they saw her leaving a sapphic club, calling her homophobic slurs and beating her in an alleyway, leaving her for dead. If it hadn’t been for that kind sir, she wouldn’t be sitting at the table with them.

Neil listened intently at all of their stories, finding them morbid, yet similar in suffering to his own. He felt a sense of understanding with them that he didn’t with other people. They did not look at his facial scars in disgust, because they carried scars of their own.

Aaron still kept quiet— glaring at him. Neil did not pay attention to him as Nicky told his own story. It was similar to Renee’s. Nicky was also left for dead because of his sexuality. Andrew had turned him instead.

Aaron did not share his story. Neither did Betsy. Neil would obviously not push. It was not his place. Andrew did not share his either, and despite Neil’s curiosity, he respected his choice. Neil assumed Andrew would tell him when he felt ready. Even if Andrew never shared his turning story, Neil would respect that.

Andrew and Neil excused themselves for the night. Neil had let Wymack know he was staying over at the Dobsons. Wymack let him stay over with the condition that he had to be back by morning for their fishing trip with Bill and James Black. Neil wanted to spend every second of his time with Andrew, but he compromised.

Before Neil and Andrew left upstairs, Betsy told Andrew to keep his bedroom door open. Andrew complained that he was too old for that, but he kept it open regardless. Neil snickered, finding his annoyance yet obedience endearing. Andrew and Neil sat in bed for hours talking well into the night. Neil asked why Andrew had a bed if he didn’t sleep. Andrew admitted that he got it for Neil.

“That’s a ridiculous waste of money.” Neil yawned.

“It seems to be doing the trick.” Andrew laughed and ran his hand through Neil’s hair gently

Neil fought his sleep valiantly, but eventually lost the battle to the night’s wave of exhaustion. The human body and its pesky needs, Neil thought right before falling in a deep, dreamless sleep in Andrew’s arms.

—

Neil did not wake up early enough for the fishing trip. He drove back home on his beat up truck that Andrew had gotten back from Port Angeles while he slept on his bed. Neil thanked him sincerely, but he did not like that Andrew had just been gone and back without him noticing. Andrew rolled his eyes and made a joke about Neil becoming clingy already.

When he reached home, it was five in the afternoon. Wymack and the Black family’s truck was in the driveway. Neil braced himself for reprimands, but Wymack just took one look at his disheveled state, and muttered a defeated “Oh god” under his breath.

James kept staring at Neil and he looked like a kicked puppy. Neil did not know why that was. Neil never reciprocated any of his affections and attempts at flirting. James interrogated him in Wymack’s kitchen, which fueled Neil’s growing annoyance with his friend. That was all they were. Friends. And he told James exactly that before petulantly running up the stairs to lock himself in the safety and quiet of his room.

He plopped on his bed, frustrated with everyone in the house. Except for Bill. The old man had done nothing but say good evening to Neil.

“That went well.”

Neil jumped off his bed. “Andrew.” He whisper-yelled and walked over to the blond. “How did you get in here?”

“Lock your windows, Neil.” He said and wrapped his arms around Neil’s waist.

Neil inhaled Andrew’s soft lavender scent. He wanted to drown in it. “I like this surprise. I’ll keep it open.”

Andrew pressed his lips against his ear and whispered, “Did you not hear there’s blood sucking monsters outside? Coming to corrupt the youth?”

“I wouldn’t mind being corrupted by you.” Neil said, earning himself a squeeze.

“Smart mouth.”

“You like it.”

Andrew shut him up with a kiss.

–
After Neil’s late night adventures, Wymack sat him down at the kitchen table for an important father-son chat. Neil sat impassively, ready to deny every possible accusation of being a rowdy teenager, sleeping around with no self-preservation. Neil was a rowdy teenager with no self-preservation skills, but he did not sleep around.

Neil tapped his foot anxiously as Wymack sat down with a glass of water and a knowing look on his eyes. Wymack crossed his arms over his chest and leaned back comfortably in his chair. He tried to give an air of nonchalance, despite the furrowing of his eyebrows that Neil knew meant that his mind was running 100 miles per hour.
Wymack cleared his throat and leaned back towards Neil, “So, have you been making friends?”

Neil pushed down a sigh. “Dad, cut to the chase.”

“I see you’ve been getting close to Dr. Dobson’s son.”

“How did you…”

“You guys are not that quiet. And I saw him drop you off that one night.”

Neil remained quiet, anxious that if he opened his mouth, he’d reveal more information than he intended.

“Does he make you happy?”

“Gosh, dad, I’m not like marrying him or anything.” Neil blushed.

“I remember being your age,” Wymack’s expression was pure sincerity, “There are a lot of feelings involved, many unfamiliar, volatile, and sometimes even crushing. I just want you to be okay, Neil.”

“I can take care of myself.”

“I trust you to not put yourself in harm’s way, Neil.”

“Hanging out with Andrew would not qualify as putting myself in harm’s way.”
“But you cannot be out so late at night anymore.” Wymack wiped his face down with his palm. Neil noticed the deep circles under his eyes. “Neil, I didn’t want to tell you this. You’ve been doing so well recently with nightmares, and I don’t want you to worry too much.” Wymack took another deep breath. “But people have gone missing in Forks lately. A total of three disappearances, and … they’ve been completely drained off their blood. We suspect it's some sort of serial killer, based on the patterns of these murders.”

Neil felt the world tilt on its axis. His breath caught in his throat and his lungs contracted painfully. He was panicking. And Wymack knew what Neil looked like when in panic.

“Neil, look at me.” Wymack demanded.

Neil’s vision was blurry, but his eyes snapped towards Wymack once the man called his name again.

“Deep breaths, Neil.” Wymack guided Neil through a breathing exercise, which slowly helped ground him. It must have been less than five minutes, but for Neil, it felt like an eternity. He thanked Wymack and reassured him that he would be fine.

“I’m sorry, Neil. I know what you went through as a child was incredibly traumatic, but I don’t think this is them… him. He’s gone.” Wymack repeated slowly, like talking to a wild animal. “I just wanted to make you aware of these attacks, so you can remain watchful and safe. I would appreciate it if you’d come back home earlier, regardless of whether you’re with the doctor’s son or not.”

“His name is Andrew.” Neil supplied.

“Yes, Andrew. I’d like to meet him formally sometime. Invite him over for dinner next time you see him.”

“Goodness.” Neil rolled his eyes.

Wymack chuckled in response and warned Neil about safety again. In every sense of the word, including when alone with Andrew. Neil cringed and mock gagged, telling Wymack that he’d already gotten the talk from Abby when he was thirteen-years-old.

“Your mother has always been better with those types of conversations.” Wymack laughed and ruffled Neil’s hair playfully. “But seriously though…” He added as he walked towards the living room.

“I get it!” Neil replied, his cheeks flushing. Wymack just laughed loudly and made a comment about missing his youth.

Neil walked up to his bedroom, where Andrew was sitting comfortably on a bean bag, reading a copy of The Importance of Being Earnest. Andrew did not take his eyes off the book, but Neil knew that Andrew had definitely listened in his entire conversation with Wymack. The slight upturn of Andrew’s lips made it entirely too obvious. Neil shot him a glare, crossing his arms, cheeks warm, and went on about how eavesdropping was rude.
“I have no idea what you’re talking about.” Andrew smiled.

“Very convincing.” Neil huffed, but settled comfortably at Andrew’s side.

“So… when’s dinner with dad?” Andrew smirked.

Neil just shoved his shoulder and crossed his arms in response. Andrew laughed, dropping his book, and pulling Neil’s waist until he was straddling Andrew. “You had dinner at mine. Now it’s your turn to host.”

“Sure, sure.” Neil continued to play stern, looking away from Andrew’s playful, searching gaze.

Neil walked over to his bed and took his shoes off while sitting at the edge. He plopped down on the bed, face down, and snuggled against his pillow. Andrew ran a hand through Neil’s hair, and tugged softly at the strands. Neil looked up and crawled closer to the blond.

“Andrew,” Neil met the other man’s eyes, “Do you know anything about the attacks?”

Andrew didn’t answer. He just pulled Neil closer and into his lap, and wrapped his arms around his middle. Neil rested his head against Andrew’s neck and took a deep breath of his calming scent. Andrew caressed Neil’s back until he fell into a deep sleep.

–
Neil woke up with a startled gasp. He sat up straight on his bed and took deep, calming breaths. He felt a firm hand on his nape, and he focused his eyes on his surroundings.

Andrew was there present as an unwavering force, whispering reassurances that chased the nightmares away. But Lola was haunting his nightmares again.

Neil crawled away from Andrew until he hit the headboard. Andrew gave him a wary look, asked if he hurt him, if he held his neck too tight. Neil reassured him that he just needed some time by himself after these nightmares occurred. Liar. He had always been a liar. The last thing he needed right now was to be alone.

Andrew, ever considerate, respected his request and promised Neil he would find him at school. Neil forced a smile, “Yes, see you at school.”

Andrew softly kissed his forehead and disappeared into the night.

—

Neil dreamt of cruel hands harshly tugging at his hair. Nails digging into his forearms and boisterous laughter. He dreamt of a woman’s lips dragging across his skin, teeth biting down into his neck and blood drenching his body.

Neil woke up with a jerk. He gasped into the darkness and wildly looked around the room. His entire body shook but no one was there. He turned his bedside lamp on and fiddled with his blanket until his nerves settled. He regretted telling Andrew he was fine being left alone.

He went to grab for his flipphone and opened a new message. ‘3’ was sent from an unknown number. He ignored it, brushing it off as a mistake, and decided to check up on Wymack.

He knocked on his dad’s door and slowly let himself in. “Dad,” he whispered into the dark bedroom as Wymack yawned awake.

“Nightmares again?” Wymack whispered back, sympathy coating his tone.

Neil nodded.

Wymack lifted his blanket to make some space for Neil. His son crawled into the open space and settled comfortably. Neil felt like a child again, seeking his dad’s company after a nightmare, but he simply stared at the ceiling and took deep breaths, falling into a dreamless sleep.

–
The next morning, James Black is at his door again.

Neil had slept in after the nightmare, but he was awoken by the doorbell ringing. Wymack was home because it was early Sunday, so he opened the door himself.

“Neil! You got a visitor.” Wymack yelled from downstairs.

Neil groaned but waddled downstairs still in his pajamas. He patted down his wild hair and straightened his shorts. Wymack went back to the kitchen as Neil leaned against the doorframe, looking at James Black impassively.

“Neil,” James said, exasperated.

“James.”

“I’m sorry for the other day. I value our friendship a lot. I did not mean to come up on you like that.”

Neil sighed, “It’s okay. It’s not you. I’m just seeing someone.”

James’ entire demeanor changed as if a switch had flipped. “Minyard?,” he asked, nostrils flaring.

“Yes.” Neil raised one eyebrow questioningly.

“Listen, Neil. I care about you. I just want you to be careful around him.”

“My dad already had this talk with me. And you do not look like my dad.” Neil huffed, turning to walk away, but James rapidly grabbed his forearm.

“I do not mean to intrude. I won’t bring it up again. Just… let’s remain friends, alright?” James looked like a kicked puppy. Neil nodded.

“Sure, friends.” Neil smiled, sincerely. If James truly would not bring it up again, Neil could work with that.
“Also, I wanted to show you something.” James smiled, shy

“Sure, just… let me get ready, yea?” Neil nodded, and ran upstairs to change.

Neil’s phone buzzed once he reached his room.

Andrew: R u free rn?

Neil: No. Hanging out w family friend. Later?

Andrew: No. Hunting with family. Tmr, my place?

Neil: Sure ;)

Andrew: bring exy gear.

Neil: :O what?
Neil: r u playing goalie?
Neil: omg
Neil: Andrew

Andrew: Junkie.

Neil: <3

Andrew: yuck.

Andrew: <3
—--
James ends up driving Neil to a Forks’ local museum, to Neil’s surprise. Neil carefully listens to the tour guide relay local supernatural legends in silent awe. James simply watches Neil during the entire tour.

“Many supernatural fanatics come to Forks every year to try and sight the legendary beings. But Forks is far richer in history than they’d think, and…”

Neil let the tour guide drone on as he leaned towards James to ask him questions. James leaned down, taller as he was, to answer Neil’s endless questions with ease and enthusiasm. Most of the questions were about the vampiric legends in Forks.

James did not need to ask why Neil was so interested in those legends in particular, so he didn’t.

When they left the museum, James drove them to a nearby breakfast diner. Neil settled comfortably in the foam chairs, and thanked James for the nice morning hang out.

“No problem. I’m always happy to spend time with you.” James said earnestly.

Neil smiled softly and nodded. “Yes, it’s always nice to spend time with friends.”

James nodded back, though not as resolutely.
Neil meant it. The museum was a nice distraction from last night’s nightmares. James’ company was a welcome change in his routine. He had been spending most of his days with Andrew– which he was happy to do– but sometimes he wondered if he was in fact being too clingy. Him and Andrew had yet to discuss what they were. Neil did not want to jump into conclusions. It was his first time feeling this way for someone, and he did not want to screw it up.

Neil’s phone buzzed in his pocket. He fished it out of his back pocket as James talked about a new blockbuster he wanted to go watch.

‘2’

Neil’s blood went cold. He tried to rationalize the situation. Maybe it was a mistake. A random old person mistakenly pressing digits into their phone… in a countdown pattern. Holy shit. He was screwed. This… the nightmares… Lola was coming for him, or worse, his father.

“Neil, are you alright?” James asked, eyebrows furrowed, and concern coating his tongue.

“Yes, I’m fine. Just… a stomachache. Yea.” Neil lied.

“Oh no.” James reached for his jacket, dropped some bills on the table, and grabbed Neil’s hand, “Come on, I’ll take you home.”

Neil nodded, as James walked him to the car, “Thanks.”

–
‘1,’ Neil’s phone buzzed.

Neil rang the Dobson’s doorbell, exy gear in hand as requested by Andrew. He tapped his foot anxiously, feeling like the surrounding woods had eyes on him.

Andrew yanked the door open and pulled him in. He seemed relaxed and well-rested after his hunt, and he kissed Neil fervently.

“Miss me?” Neil asked cheekily.

“Shut up.” Andrew gave him one last peck before guiding him into his backyard. His whole family was there, decked in exy gear. Nicky rushed to wrap Neil in a hug, lifting him off the ground with ease. Andrew rolled his eyes and shoved his cousin away.

“He’s all yours.” Nicky winked, making Neil flush red.

“You’re stressing him out, Nicky.” Renee interjected.

“But he’s so cute.” Nicky cooed. Aaron gagged. Andrew barred his fangs and pulled Neil closer to his body.

“Alright, I get it!” Nicky raised his hands in surrender and laughed.

“Okay, everyone. Gear up. We’re heading out.” Dr. Dobson announced.

—
Neil could not help but think of how much Kevin would love to witness the prowess of vampires playing exy. He would absolutely lose his mind as soon as he saw Andrew blocking the goal with superhuman speed, not even breaking a sweat.

Nicky and Aaron were backliners. Renee also played goalie. Betsy subbed into whatever position necessary. It was a strange game, since they didn’t have enough players, but it was a friendly game, and they made it work.

Aaron relentlessly mocked Neil for being so slow, which was a first. Neil fell for the bait and told Aaron he was remarkably fast for a human.

“Pathetic.”

“Your one-sided crush on Katelyn is pathetic.” Neil shot back. Aaron’s eyes narrowed and he barred his fangs at Neil. He stomped angrily away from the makeshift court.

Neil only blew a raspberry at him, which Andrew found amusing.

Everyone was very careful not to hurt Neil while playing. When Neil stepped into the court, everyone intentionally slowed down to make the game more fair. Neil tried scoring at Andrew, but it was frankly impossible. He was convinced that it’d be just as hard to score on a human-Andrew.

After half an hour of playing, Neil felt exhausted. He laid on the grass, looking up at the cloudy sky and breathing as much air as he could into his lungs. Dr. Dobson passed him a water bottle, and told him to let her know if he ever felt faint. Neil reassured her he was okay.

The rest of the Dobsons began packing up their equipment as Andrew walked towards Neil to lay down next to him. He silently stared at the same sky as Neil, and slowly inched his hand closer to Neil’s. The redhead grabbed Andrew’s hand and softly drew patterns over his calloused knuckles.

“You’re amazing, Andrew.”

“You keep saying that.”

“I mean it.” Neil turned over to lean on his elbows, staring Andrew down. The shorter man looked away sheepishly.

“I hate you.”

“Hm. I think you like meee.” Neil singsonged teasingly.

“I don’t like people.”

“Sure, grandpa.”

That was it. Andrew tackled Neil and they tussled on the grass. Neil laughed uncontrollably as Andrew turned him on his back, holding Neil’s arms over his head.

“You’re playing with fire, Neil.”

“You’re not as scary as you think,” Neil leaned up to press a kiss against Andrew’s nose, catching him off-guard. If Andrew could blush, he’d be red all over. He reached over to shut Neil up with a kiss.

When everyone was ready to leave, Neil saw a figure in the distance and froze. He thought his mind was playing tricks on him. But then Andrew froze right next to him. The other Dobsons turned around to follow their line of vision and immediately grew tense, defensive stances ready.

Dr. Dobson stepped in front of her family and glared.

“Nathaniel.” A woman with brown, curly hair grinned as she emerged from the woods and stepped closer. Andrew stood in front of Neil, and bared his fangs defensively.

“Nathaniel, long time, no see. Come say hi.” Lola Malcolm was in front of Neil. Blood running down her neck. Teeth as sharp as a knife. This was the worst of Neil’s nightmares. Lola had been turned into a supernatural, superstrong immortal being with hunter-like instincts.

Neil was frozen. He could not outrun her. He felt his lungs constrict.

“Who is this woman, Neil?” Nicky asked, shoulders tense.

Neil didn’t speak.

“Let’s go, Neil.” Andrew’s voice was low and bleak. He had to tug Neil’s elbow harshly to break him from his trance-like state. They walked into the woods as the other Dobsons shielded Neil away from Lola’s line of vision, and once they reached the woods, Andrew flung Neil over his back and sped away running with inhuman speed. Neil felt whiplash, but nothing short of what he felt when he saw Lola.

Andrew and Neil reached Neil’s home, and Andrew let himself into Neil’s room to frantically pack away Neil’s belongings. “We’re leaving.”

“What?” Neil said, but before he could let out another word, Andrew had already strapped him into the passenger seat of the maseratti. Renee was in the driver’s seat already. Everything was happening too fast for Neil to process.

“Wait, going where?” Neil asked frantically.

“Far away. Anywhere. Renee will keep you safe.”

“What about my dad? What about you?”

“Worry about yourself.”

“Andrew, you’re not–” Neil began yelling, but Andrew slammed the passenger door closed on his face. Before he could open it again, Renee was already speeding away.

“Renee, turn back, what about my dad?”
“Andrew will handle it.” Renee said resolutely, though her eyes looked far away.

“What do you mean? You don’t get it. Lola, she’s sick. She’ll kill him to get to me. And she’ll kill all of you–”

“She’s clearly a newborn vampire. She cannot kill us.”

“Right, I don’t know what you’re talking about… but it’s Lola.”

“Just trust us, Neil.”

“I won’t let you all throw your life away in Forks for me.”

“Neil, I have not told you this, as we haven’t gotten many opportunities to speak. But trust my abilities. I’m never wrong when it comes to the future. I can see how the future develops based on our present actions, and this is the right choice, trust me.” Renee said resolutely and took the freeway.

Neil felt insane. His entire life upended in minutes. He pressed his eyes shut and counted in French, German, and Russian in his head. He blinked rapidly and tried to think. think. He had spent his entire life preparing for this moment, when his father’s people would come for him. But he was not factoring in the possibility of one of them being a vampire. That was not even a possibility for him to even consider a few months ago before moving into Forks.

“Andrew is disrupting your trail back in Forks. He knew not to come with us because the tracker would know he’s with you. He’s driving in the opposite direction to throw her off your scent. In the meantime, we’ll stay in California.”

Neil freaked out. What type of outrageous plan was this that he was not on? And how did Renee and Andrew agree to this in mere seconds?

“Why California?” Neil chose to ask first, out of his thousand questions.

“We have a place there. It 's quite far. Sunny, busy, conspicuous. A tracker like Lola would not go there.”

“How is my dad safe in all of this?”

“Aaron and Nicky are following him. A newborn like Lola knows not to approach significantly stronger vampires alone.”

“And Andrew? Is he okay?” Neil asked, his voice broke.

“Oh Neil,” Renee looked at him with pity. Neil hated it. “Of course he is.”

Neil felt a small relief settle between his lungs. Renee said so with so much conviction, the plan fell infallible. Hours later, they reached the Dobsons' house in California.

–
Two days of sleeplessness indoors in the Dobsons’ California house had passed. Neil paced incessantly and asked Renee for updates. She said she had yet to hear anything from Betsy, but that she’d let him know as soon as possible. Neil laughed hysterically in the guest room upstairs. He also cried. He hadn’t heard any updates about Lola for two days. Andrew was in pursuit and that only scared him even more. Lola could be a newborn vampire, but she was a relentless woman.

On day three, while Renee briefly left to buy groceries for both of them, Neil received a call from an unknown number. He knew who it was from, and he knew better than to ignore it this time. In the background, he could only hear shallow breathing, but then an unmistakable voice.

“Neil.” Kevin said in the background. “Neil.”

“No! Leave him alone! He doesn’t have anything to do with this. Lola! I’ll fucking kill you!” Neil yelled into the phone.

“613 Belgrave Lane.” Lola whispered into the phone and hung up. Neil did not wait for Renee. He couldn’t. Not with Kevin’s life on the line. He rushed out of the house and ran to the nearest metro. He grabbed a map from the station and followed the line.

Kevin was a traveling college-athlete who frequently played in California. It was no surprise Lola got him for ransom while here. This meant Andrew was on a wild goose chase for a woman who already had won her sick little game. Lola had Kevin. She will soon have Neil.

–
Neil rapidly entered what appeared to be an abandoned ballet studio. It was dusty, with mirrors lining up the walls. He yelled Kevin’s name, but a resolute echo bounced across the walls. He was too late. He felt blood rush into his ears.

“Neil!” He heard Kevin yell again, and followed the sound down the hallway.

An old voice recorder was propped up against a table. The recorder yelled, “Neil!” repeatedly. Neil realized instantly this was a trap. Some sort of voice message or phone call Lola had recorded to get Neil where she wanted him. He tried to run out of the hallway and outside the building, but Lola jumped down from the ceiling and slowly prowled closer to Neil.

“Oh Junior…” She whispered, fangs extending.

Neil looked for another exit, but found none. This place was falling apart and he would come down with it before Lola got him without a fight. Neil ran the other way, but Lola, with her vampiric speed, was in front of him in an instant. She dug her nails into his arm and pulled him this way or the other, drawing blood.

“Not too fast, Junior. I have to set up a camera for your father.” She dragged her teeth across his neck and bit down harshly. Neil whimpered like a dying animal, and struggled to free himself of her grip. The struggle only made her teeth sink deeper.

“And I’ll make sure to send a copy to your little boyfriend as well.” She cackled loudly before throwing Neil across the room. His back hit a column and he heard the nasty crunch of bone.

Neil shut his eyes as pain ran down his back, and he scrambled to stand up, but Lola was suddenly straddling him and licking the blood down his neck. With a handheld camera to her left, and a knife to her right, Lola cut his skin, and when Neil struggled, she cut a bit more. Neil could not hear what she was saying over the pain. He could barely hear himself scream.

It suddenly stopped. Before Lola fished a lighter and held it up to his face, and burned the skin underneath his left eye until it melted like wax. Her hands proceeded to roam down his sides as she whispered lewd things into his ear. Neil spasmed repeatedly.

Neil made peace with death at that moment. He thought about Andrew, Kevin, Wymack, Abby. He wished he could see them one last time. He wished he could tell Andrew how much he loved him and how he was grateful to have met him. He wished he could play exy with Kevin and have dinner with his whole family once again. He reminisced about many happy moments. He closed his eyes.

In a blink, the pain was gone. Lola’s weight was off him and he could have sworn he saw her head roll to his side. He heard frantic yells from multiple people around him. He might have even heard Andrew crying. Many sounds he couldn’t make out, before he finally closed his eyes, and let go.

–
“Neil.”

“Holy shit, he’s waking up.”

“Neil!”

Neil woke up with a gasp. At first, he thought was waking up from another nightmare. Until he looked around and found himself at a hospital. He almost panicked but he saw Kevin and Andrew next to his bedside and settled down. They were okay.

Kevin’s eyes were bloodshot, and he gingerly sat next to Neil. Andrew sat on his other side and held Neil’s hand. There was complete silence in the room, as everyone took in the sight of Neil being safe. Only Kevin’s sobs filled the room before the door opened and more people walked in. Wymack, Abby, and the Dobsons were all in the room, asking Neil a million questions about how he was feeling, if he could remember anything, if… if… if…

Abby walked next to Neil and kissed his forehead. Tears running down her cheeks. Wymack followed, bloodshot eyes just like Kevin’s, and kissed the top of Neil’s head.

“Goodness, Neil.” Wymack sobbed. Neil couldn’t imagine how beat up he looked. “I’m not letting you out of the house ever again.”

“You go away for less than a year and look at you!” Kevin laughed, no real amusement behind his eyes. “When I received the call from that psycho, I thought I had lost you already.”

“I’m f–”

“Don’t you fuckin dare say it!” Abby yelled, frustrated and smothered Neil in kisses.

Dr. Dobson approached Neil’s bedside and checked the vitals on his monitor. “I’m glad you’re okay, Neil.”

Neil nodded appreciatively. He looked at the rest of the Dobsons, who were lined up against the wall with concern and relief flooding their expressions. They looked tired, even for vampires. Nicky had a far away distressed look to his expression like he was crying with no tears. Renee was holding tightly onto Aaron’s arm. Even Aaron, always unimpressed or impassive, looked relieved to see Neil well.

Neil turned to look at Andrew, who was already staring deep into Neil’s eyes. Neil reached a hand out to Andrew, who held it gingerly and brought it up to his lips for a kiss. Neil kept gazing into Andrew’s eyes– a mixture of pain, relief, anger, love, all swimming in their hazel hue.

Neil didn’t even notice when the hospital room emptied out until it was only them two.

“I’m so–” Neil started.

“No. You have nothing to apologize for.” Andrew pressed Neil’s hand more firmly.

“I thought he had Kevin.” Neil sighed, eyes shut painfully as the memories flooded in.

“She tricked us all.”

“I’m glad you got to me.”

Andrew leaned down to press a soft kiss to Neil’s temple. “I could not live with myself if I had lost you.”

“You’ll never lose me.”

“You have four broken ribs, a skull fracture, and a broken leg. I almost did.” Andrew corrected, anger coating his tone.

“But you didn’t. You’re not the only immortal here.” Neil snickered.

Andrew huffed, amused. “I guess not. The world can never rid itself of you, Neil Josten.”

“Neither can you.”

“Lucky me.” Andrew pressed another kiss to Neil’s cheek, smiling softly.

–
Neil did not go to prom. He was not up for it and neither was Andrew after last month’s traumatic events. Instead, Andrew picked Neil up from his house and drove him to Seattle for a Hawks game. At first, Neil thought they were only visiting the city, but Andrew surprised him with two front row tickets.

“How did you get these seats?” Neil asked, after the Hawks scored another perfect goal. He stood up to cheer, but Andrew held him down because his leg was not fully healed.

“I have my ways.” Andrew shrugged smugly.

“Andrew Minyard, you’re amazing.”

“You keep saying that.”

“And I’ll never stop saying it.” Neil leaned closer to Andrew and pressed his lips softly against his as the goal buzzer blared once again.