Chapter Text
October 31st, three days after the incident…
Daniel’s being very silent today. Sean’s not entirely sure if it’s just his brother being tired, or something else… maybe, that other thing? Whatever the hell that was? He could still remember it, probably would for the rest of his life. The flames, rising up at the sky, as Daniel was screaming. Then, silence. Just… silence. Sean had tried to carefully ask him this morning, but all Daniel remembered, was a terrible nightmare. He didn’t remember what it was about, just that it was bad… very bad. Then, he didn’t want to talk about it anymore. He already pissed Daniel off once today.
Sean had completely forgotten what he told him yesterday when they were sitting next to each other by the road. He said that dad would pick them up in the morning. What a smart move Sean. Idiot. He managed to buy himself some time, telling Daniel that dad had to work, and would pick them up tonight. Meaning he had eight hours, at best, to prepare himself. To tell him. He’s not backing down today. Daniel’s finding out the truth today, one way or the other. He keeps telling himself that, not being sure how, or when, it will happen.
“You… uh… are you ok, Daniel? You’re kinda… quiet?” Why is Sean always so awkward when he wants to talk seriously? His brother turns, looks at him, and smiles.
“Yeah, Sean. I’m just… tired. Those… berries? They kinda took all my energy away, I think.” Either the berries or… whatever the fuck that was…
“Are you sure, man? You’re not mad at me, are you?” He doesn’t know why he keeps asking him that. Sean remembers being a kid, and people asking him the same thing. If he wasn’t already mad, he would be after getting asked about it ten times.
“Yeah, Sean. I know we kinda… argued, yesterday. But I still enjoy spending time with you, just the two of us.” Yeah. You’re saying that now. Wait a month or two, let’s see what happens. If we're still alive- NO. No! He can’t get trapped in these vicious thoughts, trapping him, like he’s inside a cage. Enough, dude. Focus!
“Sean, can I… ask you something?” They were walking next to the road again, with no direction in mind. Daniel came to a stop, began looking down, as if he was ashamed while holding his wrist. Shit. He only acts like that if he wants to ask something… difficult. Sean hopes it’s not related to dad.
“Yeah, sure. Go ahead.” Sean sits down in the grass, gesturing for his brother to do the same.
“Why- why- uhm” Whatever it is, it’s really difficult for him to say it. Sean does what he always does in these situations. He waits, silently, letting his brother take the time he needs.
“Why… don’t we ever… do stuff anymore? I mean… just you and me, together? I’ve really missed that, Sean.” Daniel’s so ashamed he can’t even look Sean in the eyes. He knew this was a talk that was coming too. He had tried to bring it up, many times, but always failed. Now, it’s probably the last real chance he might have. At least then, Daniel might think Sean cares about him, while his life’s still… normal.
“Daniel… part of… why we’re out here is because I’ve learned something. Something terrible, Enano.” Well, that’s probably the most accurate lie so far.
“I’ve realized, that I’ve been a terrible brother to you. I’ve taken you for granted, been mad at you for no reason, ignored you, yelled at you, said I didn’t want to be around you…” Just to hear himself say those words, feels both horrible and relieving at the same time. Meanwhile, Daniel’s listening closely, not even twitching his eyebrows.
“And I’m sorry for all that, Daniel. I really am. I know it’s not enough. I don’t expect you to just forgive me, because I don’t deserve it. What I can do is, promise you, that I will do better from now on, Enano. I will be there, whenever you need support, or just want to talk. I promise you, Daniel, I will do better, because you’re my brother, and I love you.” That might just be the first, honest, heart-to-heart, that Sean’s ever had with his brother. It felt… good. He wasn’t lying. He was telling the truth. All of it. Then, at the same time, he despised himself, knowing that it took nine years and their father dying, in order for him to have this conversation. Daniel still hasn’t moved a muscle. They’re both silent, Daniel taking it all in, Sean waiting for him to speak.
“Wow… Sean…” That’s it? Sure, he can admit it, Daniel looks a bit stunned. But, seriously, that’s it? He can recognize the face his brother’s making, Daniel’s in deep thoughts now.
“You know what, Sean?” Daniel says happily, looking at his older brother.
“What, Enano?” He sounds happy, at least that’s good. Right?
“You can just FUCK OFF!” Daniel screams to his face. He rarely cursed. Especially like that. Under normal circumstances, Sean would probably have given him a lecture on what language to use, and not. But nothing was normal. Not anymore.
“I- uh… I don’t- I…” He’s beginning to panic, stumbling at his words. Daniel puts his hands on Sean’s shoulders, looking him deep in his eyes, with the most serious look he’s ever seen on his brother’s face. Then, he speaks. Calm. Collected. Soothing.
“Sean. Listen to me now. You are not, a bad brother. You are not a shitty brother, a terrible brother, or a horrible brother. Where did you get that from, Sean? Where? You get mad at me, sure. Sometimes, it’s a little… scary. But sometimes, I get mad at you… for no reason. I’ve even stolen stuff from you, some of it you haven’t even… noticed. But I love spending time with you, Sean. I wouldn’t want to do that if I thought you were a terrible brother, right? So, if you want to promise me something, Sean. Promise me, you will never, ever, call yourself a bad brother again. It makes me really sad, hearing you say that. Because it’s not true.”
Daniel’s done with his speech, or maybe, his lecture? This time, Sean’s left stunned. He didn’t know his little brother could talk with such confidence. Guess he really meant was he was saying.
“Oh, and Sean? I was expecting you to say that you had too much homework or something. Because you do hang out with me a lot, it’s just the last couple of months it’s been less and less.” Daniel giggles a bit, trying to wipe away a tear in his eye without alerting Sean. The latter takes his thumb, doing it before Daniel’s had the chance, then hugs his little brother.
“I- I don’t even know what to say, Daniel. Thank you. So much. It… it really means a lot to me to hear that.” He wasn’t lying. Still, he wasn’t entirely sure Daniel was being completely honest with him. Especially, considering their conversation last night. But maybe, just maybe, Sean’s not as shitty of a brother he thought he was…?
They kept on, walking, walking, and walking. It never ended. But at least Daniel’s back to his more talkative, energetic self. Eventually, they reached a small gas station. It would be a good chance to use up their last money on some food, and maybe… charge his phone? But it’s also a risk. A stupid risk. Then again, they were at that diner forever, with Daniel making a scene, ordering food for like, five people. Ten minutes at a gas station should be fine. Besides, Daniel’s hungry… again. The kid eats like a bear. When he can, that is. Gas station it is, then.
As they’re about to enter the store, Sean sees a family outside, eating. Eating food. Food. A daughter, a mom, and a… dad. Shit. Keep it together. He doesn’t know why, but he briefly considers begging them for food, only to immediately admit it’s a bad idea in so many ways.
“But, what about sending Daniel over to beg…? An adorable little kid, hungry, doing his sad-face? Bet they can’t say no to- STOP!” Damn, what the fuck’s wrong with him? Did he actually consider sending his nine-year-old brother to beg? Fuck. He really is hungry. Before he comes up with any more stupid ideas, he enters the station, alongside his brother.
They were both instantly, stared down, by an older woman. She gave them a look, telling Sean all he needed to know. They’re not welcome here. Granted, two kids, half-Mexican or not, one covered in mud and fake blood. The other, covered in even more mud, real blood, a busted & swollen eyebrow, a broken nose, and a knocked-out front tooth. It’s something bound to attract attention… anywhere. But he knew the look. This is… a different kind of attention. They should move fast.
Sean’s attention immediately goes towards the hot dogs. They just smell so damn good. Meanwhile, Daniel’s looking around on his own. Sean will hear the door open if he gets out, so it’s fine. He does a little bit of math, something he sucks at.
“Ok, dude… enough money to buy two hot dogs, a loaf of bread (yay), and a Chock-O-Crisp for Daniel. Then, he’s officially broke. Unless he’s counting the money, about 1300 dollars, on his bank account. His bank account, only accessed with his ATM card, current location, his desk in their home in Seattle. Dumbass.
He pays the mean-looking woman. She doesn’t even greet him. Then, he walks over to the hot dogs, preparing two of them. One, he instantly eats, barely chewing it. He wants the other one so badly. But no, that’s Daniel’s. Instead, he’s looking for a quiet place to sit down, rest, and charge his phone. There’s only one table in the entire store, and of course, there’s a fat guy sitting there. Always. Fucking always.
“Hi, uh- alright if I sit here?” Not like Sean’s got a choice. Time to be friends in awkward silence.
“Sure thing, my dude. Sit down.” Huh… he actually sounds… kinda nice. Wait, is he- is he looking at… porn? What the fuck?
“I know what you’re thinking… what the hell is this creep looking at?” Yeah, pretty much. Now, leave me alone, please.
“These people, they just want to be like you and me, only… well… naked.” Sean seriously doubts that anyone would want to be like him right now.
“If they’re not hurting anyone, who’s to say that they’re wrong?” God, would you leave me alone, please?
“No one, I guess.” Ok, I answered. Now, kindly piss off, leave me to my misery.
“Well… I’m getting… carried away… anyway, name’s Brody.” Aw, for fuck’s sake. Would you leave me the fuck alone? Sean’s angry. Not at Brody, he actually thinks he’s a nice guy. It’s just a… very bad time for him to meet new people. He can’t handle it.
“WOW! Those are huge, Sean! LOOK!” Sean had fought, trying to contain his anger so much, he failed to notice how Daniel had been standing behind Brody the entire time. Looking at the screen of his laptop. If it wasn’t awkward before, it was now.
“Oh damn.” Brody quickly folds down his laptop. Sean’s not sure if he should laugh, or cry. For now, he settles for his please-kill-me-now-slow-and-painfully look.
“Aww, I wanna see more…” Daniel’s pouting.
“No way, dude. Here, I bought you a hot dog. Eat it, and never mention this again, deal?” Awkward!
“Oh! Yes! Deal, Sean. Thanks.” He grabs the hot dog, continuing to explore.
“Sorry, I- I didn’t mean to-” Brody apologizes.
“It’s fine. He’s nine. Besides, he’s got… other things to worry about. Finally, some peace and quiet. Sean takes out his charger and boots up his phone. He takes a deep breath and looks at the screen.
“387 new notifications!” A shitload. Way too much to go through. Still, he was kind of expecting it. He begins to go through his texts, knowing it’s not going to be anything positive. He’s already decided not to read anything from Lyla. Too much pain. Guilt.
“Daniel dis is Noah! R u guys ok???!!! pls come back I miss u:(“ Fuck. Sean’s only been thinking of himself, the things he’s leaving behind. But what about his brother? He considers his options, what game he’s actually playing right now. He’s sixteen. Him, taking care of his nine-year-old brother, they won’t make it long. Arrested, at best. Worst? He doesn’t want to guess. If today is the last time he’s got the chance, then he might as well answer.
“Hi, Noah. It’s Sean. We’re fine, both of us. Safe. Outside of town. We’re not coming back. I’m sorry. I’ll promise to let Daniel know you miss him. He misses you too, a lot. He always told me, you’re his best friend.” Noah isn’t exactly the… sharpest kid in the neighborhood. Sean hopes he truly understands the message and the meaning behind it. He continues to read his texts…
“SPIC!” Nope. Next one…
“When you least expect it… someone will take your little brother, slit his throat, and you will be watching Sean. Know that, you will be watching. I’m coming for you…” What the fuck? What the fucking fuck is wrong with people??? He knows he shouldn’t read any more messages. In some strange way, curiosity gets the better of him.
“Your dad took mah job! He duk mah juub!” He’s not even sure how to react anymore. Are people being… funny? Texting him fucking South Park references when his dad just died? All hope for mankind is lost.
“Sean. We know you didn’t do anything. You’re the victim in this! You and Daniel! Please, if you can, come to us. We will help you. It’s the least we can do. Be careful. // C & S.” At least someone believes he’s innocent. Maybe not all hope’s lost… yet. Wait… C & S? “It’s the least we can do?” Could that be…? NO! Nope! He’s imagining things. They stopped giving a shit long ago. That’s if they even cared to begin with.
One more text, then, he’s done. Of course, unknown number… what are they going to do this time? He doesn’t even know why anymore, but he opens it.
“Sean. I know I’m the last person you want to hear from right now. I know I was always an… asshole. To everyone. To you, your brother, and your father, I’ve done a lot of thinking, while stuck at the hospital. It’s my fault, Sean. Everything. I fucked up everything, said terrible things, and I’ve probably ruined your lives. They released me from the hospital today, and I’ve decided to… make some changes. I know that doesn’t mean anything for you, and it shouldn’t either. Still, I just want you to know that, I’m sorry. // Brett Foster.”
Sean’s not sure what to feel. Up until this point, he was sure Brett was dead, meaning Sean’s wanted for two murders. Now, finding out Brett’s not only alive but sorry? Part of knows it’s a terrible thing, but he replies.
“Yes, Brett. You’re right. You DID ruin our lives, and I don’t give a flying FUCK about you making changes, or not! The last few days, I thought you were dead, that I was wanted for two murders I had jack-shit to do with. Learning that you’re alive, I realized something. I was happier, believing you were dead. Fuck off, Brett.”
Sean hits “send” still a bit uncertain if that was justified. He was sorry…
Oh, Sean! Look, a puppy!” He’s instantly pulled out of his darkness. Daniel’s found a dog. Great. And he’s standing behind the register, something Sean knows is a huge no-no for customers. Kids, or not. Even better.
“Yeah, dude. It’s a dog.” True. It was a dog. Damn cute one too.
“It says she’s free, Sean! Can we… please… take her home… Sean? Please…?” Come on. That’s just evil!
“Sorry, Daniel. We can’t… take care of a dog now. I’m sorry. Come on, let’s head outside. Eat some sandwiches.” He wanted to say yes, he really did. But he knew. He knew that a dog at this point would just be an extra mouth to feed. But he knew Daniel would have loved it. The kid needed a new friend. Especially now…
“Ok, Sean.” Daniel sighed heavily, then walked after Sean.
Sean was very careful, using the words “sandwich” instead of just saying loaf of bread. Why? Because a sandwich sounds good. A loaf of bread is just… bread, and nothing more. Boring, dry, and not very good in general. They ate the latter of those two. Daniel might actually have been so hungry, he didn’t even notice anything weird. Such as, his sandwich being empty of… anything and everything.
“Oh, man… I really needed something to eat. Thanks, Sean.” Daniel lies down.
“You’re not done, are you? I mean… I did get you this…” Sean shows him the Chock-O-Crisp.
“Uhhh… thanks, Sean. Really appreciate it. I do. But I’m full. Totally.” That’s saying something.
Sean lets his brother rest, while he’s studying the map. Why, he doesn’t know. Where is he even going? For what purpose? Then, he sees something in the corner of his eyes. A man, big one too, older, walked towards them, a mean look on his face, and a posture telling Sean that, this man’s on a mission. And it’s not a good one. He doesn’t have time to react. The old man’s already at their table.
“Hey, kids, out camping?” Ok, Sean. Stay calm. Just making conversation here.
“Uh… yeah. We- uh we are…” Smooth, dude. Real smooth. Idiot.
“ I sure hope you paid for all of that… I don’t take kindly to shoplifters in my store. Especially… your kind.” You must be joking? This is the last thing he needs right now. Ok, think…
“ANSWER ME, BOY!” The man screams, loud, waking Daniel from his slumber. Daniel’s terrified. Sean stands in front of him, gesturing for him to move back.
Sean…?” He sounds so scared. All that confidence he had earlier today, gone.
“Listen, sir… we didn’t steal anything.” Good. Just remain calm. Then, he will be the one looking like a jackass.
“Now, whoever mentioned anything about stealing, boy? Not me. I just asked you if you paid. A simple question, I do it all the time. Got my fair share of reasons to do so. Then, I just told you what rules I have in my store. I never said anything about… stealing. You did, boy. You did.” Fuck you, asshole. Just… fuck you.
“Uh ok, I apologize. We… need to get going now. Sorry for the trouble.” He’s not even a little sorry. But damn, they need to go, fast.
“Nope! You’re coming with me! Now!” He grabs Sean’s arm. Hard. What the- who does he think he is? A fucking vigilante or… or does he know? Sean panics.
“Let me go, asshole!” Sean tries to get out of the hold, but it’s pointless.
“Don’t try it, kid. It’s only gonna make things worse.” Words directed, not at Sean, but Daniel.
“Daniel, RUN!” Daniel did not hesitate. He ran. Towards the old man, and made a decent attempt to kick him between his legs. The kid’s got heart.
“Let my brother go, jerk!” Then, Sean feels a sharp pain, at the back of his head. He falls to the ground. The last thing he sees, is Daniel being on the receiving end of a punch to the face, only to then run away. Into the forest, screaming in pain, crying in fear. Sean passed out, feeling a massive burst of anger, flowing through his entire body. Anger and… fear. So much fear.
Sean woke up, inside a room, pitch black. He couldn’t see shit. There were windows in the room, however. Good. It’s not a holding cell. Then I can just take Daniel- no. NO!
Daniel. Where the hell is his brother? It’s all coming back now. Shit. He’s out there, all alone. He must be so scared. Sean remembered one time, the asshole that he was, he forced Daniel to take out the trash when it was completely dark outside. It was like, fifteen steps outside the front door, and just as many back. Easy enough. When he hadn’t heard from his brother for over an hour he checked on him.
Daniel had heard a sound, somewhere in a bush, and got scared. So scared, he threw the garbage bags to the left, hoping that whatever was making said sound would go for them instead of him when he ran to the right. Reason being, that there was a little more light that way. Or, less darkness at least. Sean had found him, wasn’t exactly hard. He was sitting under a tree, crying, eyes closed. Too afraid of the dark to open his eyes, even when Sean carried him inside. That kid, is now out there, alone. In a dark forest, and a fucking thunderstorm.
“So… you’re finally awake.” Oh, right. He forgot about this asshole. Just ignore him, pretend like… he doesn’t exist.
“Sorry I had to secure you. I’m gonna give you a tip, boy. If you’re innocent, don’t act guilty. But you’re not that innocent… are you?” He’s now wearing a name tag, reading “Hank Stamper”.
“Sorry Hank, but you’re an asshole.” He doesn’t say it. He bites his tongue to the point where he can taste blood. Don’t piss him off… more.
“I didn’t do anything.” He knows it’s pointless. But he feels that silence would be even worse at this point.
“Nice try, boy. But I know everything.” Hank’s words are so full of hate, Sean can almost see it. He walks over to his computer and starts to read something. Sean’s too far away, it’s impossible to tell what.
“Police officer Kindred Matthews brutally murdered in downtown Seattle.” Sean freezes. It’s the first time he’s heard the name of the person who shot his dad. He wants to scream, but it’s impossible. He can’t do shit. Hank continues.
“A police officer was brutally murdered today, after responding to a crime scene. Officer Matthews was, upon arrival, instantly assaulted by a local man, Esteban Diaz. Officer Matthews neutralized the suspect, with great professionalism.”
“That’s FUCKING BULLSHIT! Do you hear me?!?!?! He didn’t do shit!” Sean can’t take it. Hearing… that.
“On. The. Floor. Now.” Hank’s voice was silent, but it was more menacing than anything Sean’s heard in his life. He calms down.
“My point is, I know who you are… and what you did. Some… friends of mine, are on their way over now. Don’t worry, boy. They’ll… take good care… of you, and your brother… if we can find him.” Hank gives him a sadistic smile, then walks out of the room.
Shit! Have to escape, need to get out. Now! But how? Fucking handcuffs!
“Sean…? Sean…? Are you there…?” Daniel. He’s alive at least.
“Daniel?” Sean looks around, funding a small vent, where on the other side, is Daniel.
“Yeah! Are you ok, Sean? I’m really, really scared…” Sean could hear it. Daniel trying to hide his crying.
“I’m fine, Enano. Listen, you have to help me get out of here. Se if you can find…”
“Here, Sean. Take these.” Daniel interrupts him, only to hand him the keys to the handcuffs through the vent.
“What the- how did you get these, Daniel?” His kid-brother was miles ahead of him, this time.
“What? You think your room is the only place I’ve sneaked into to steal?” Wow. He underestimated him. In more ways than one, it would seem. He can practically hear Daniel smiling with pride, through the vent. Time to go. The discussion about stealing, that’s for another day.
Sean removes the handcuffs, gets up to open the backdoor, letting in Daniel. Immediately, Daniel almost tackles Sean to the ground with a hug.
“Sean! Thank god… I was so scared. It- it was horrible, dark, and- and-” He’s rambling. They need to go.
“Daniel. We’ll talk later when we're safe. Right now, we need to- what- what happened to your face, Enano?” Daniel’s left eyebrow’s busted wide open, yet another thing they had in common. He didn’t bleed… anymore. He had, however, been bleeding a lot. Sean could tell. His little brother’s face was almost completely dark-red, covered in a sticky mass of sweat, tears, and dried blood.
“He- he did it… that… man.” Daniel says. Sean now could feel the anger boiling inside him. For someone to beat up Sean, was one thing. He’s not someone built for fighting physically, he’s more of a runner. Escape danger, whenever possible. However, the one thing, Sean could never, under any circumstances accept, was someone, anyone, hurting his brother. Never.
“What the fu- that son of a bitch!” He’s not even trying to keep his anger under control. Hank Stamper’s going to get what he deserves.
“It’s ok, Sean. I- I wanna get out of here, please…” Ok, time to go.
“Ok, man. Let’s go. Did that asshole see you?” obviously not, because it’s been like, ten minutes.
“No way, I’m invisible.” Daniel smiles, confidently.
“You damn right, you are.” Sean smiles back. He turns around, for less than five seconds, only to get his backpack, and his brother’s gone. Out to the store. Sean can hear voices, loud voices. Angry voices. He’s got Daniel. No.
“Let me GO!” Daniel screams, panicking. For a second, everything becomes completely silent. Then…
BANG!
What the hell was that?
Sean runs out, finding Hank Stamper knocked unconscious, every single item in the entire store, either trashed or on the floor at the opposite end of where it should be. In the epicenter of it all stands Daniel. Breathing heavily, like he just ran a marathon. WHAT?!
“Daniel?! What- what happened? What did you do?” Definitely a poor choice of words, but Sean feels lost, his mind is racing again.
“I- I don’t know. I don’t know what happened. Please, I swear.” He truly doesn’t know. It’s without a doubt, subject for a later discussion. Now, let’s get the fuck out of here.
“It’s… ok, Enano. Come on. Let’s go.” Sean takes his brother but feels a weak hand on his ankle. He looks down.
“Uhhh, you fucking spic… you’re both going to prison… for the rest of your lives…” Hank Stamper. On the floor, defenseless. Revenge. He wants it. And, he’s going to take it. He slowly bends down, looking closely at Hank’s face.
“You do NOT touch my brother. Ever. This is what happens.” Calm and collected, he delivers his message. Then, prepares himself to kick his face in. over, and over again. His right foot is literally in the middle of the air, as he feels a hand on his wrist.
“No, Sean. He’s not worth it. It’s not what dad’s raised us to do. If you do that, then you’re no better than him.” He’s right. For the second time in ten minutes, Sean has truly, underestimated his younger brother.
“You’re- you’re right, Enano. I’m sorry.” He looks at Hank.
“Thank my Enano… for still having that ugly face left.” Then, they run. Towards nothing.
After what feels like a small eternity, Sean sees a car. He grabs Daniel’s hand, and they move towards it. Sean’s still in a bit of a shock, meaning he just slams his hands on the windows, probably scaring whoever is in there, to death.
“Holy- WHAT are you doing, man?” Brody. The weirdo from the gas station. Sean’s not sure yet if he’s a good weirdo or a bad weirdo. Either way, he tells them to get in the car, no questions asked. Sean tells him what happens, as they drive away. Far away.
“Man, I knew that guy was sketchy.” Ok, he’s pretty sure now, that Brody’s a good weirdo. He still doesn’t really know him though, and small talk was never his strongest side. He tries to do an awkward conversation with Brody. Then, he’s interrupted.
Not by Brody.
Not by Daniel.
Obviously not by himself.
Sean’s interrupted by a bark. He didn’t see a dog when they got in the car, and Daniel’s been unusually quiet, meaning…
“Daniel? What’s under the blanket? I’m not stupid, come on.” He did it. The kid really did it. Daniel took the dog. Sean doesn’t really know how to react at this point. He should be furious. The dog might have been free, but it’s still theft. Then again, he really wants Daniel to have a friend. He’s going to need it… when, shit, he forgot about that. He said he’s telling him today, and that’s what he’s going to do. No more excuses!
“Are- are you mad at me, Sean?” God damn-it. No, he can’t.
“I’m not… thrilled, Daniel. But I’m not mad. Don’t worry. We can talk about it tomorrow.” Because then, it doesn’t matter anymore.
“YES! What should we name her?” Daniel’s mood made a complete turnaround.
“Dude, your dog, your name.” Daniel names the dog “Mushroom”, for reasons unknown. Five minutes later, he’s out cold, Mushroom next to him.
“You can take a nap too if you want. It’s fine. You look tired.” Brody says, eyes on the road. Is that a good idea? Letting his guard down like that?
“I can drop you off at a motel later. You could use some alone time.” Shit, he really is nice. Sean begins to drift off to sleep, hoping he’s not going to wake up in a creepy sex dungeon or something.
“WOW, it even has a bathtub!” It must be easy, being a kid, so easily impressed.
“Yeah, I’m gonna run a bath for you, man.” Sean began filling the bathtub.
“Hey, Sean?” His brother asked, sounding curious.
“What’s a condom?” Ok, where the hell did that come from?
“Uh, why are you asking me that, Daniel? Can you please, tell me what channel you’re watching?” Seriously?
“I’m asking because there’s like, seven of them in your backpack. I think that… yeah, they’re expired, Sean.” Oh my god! Sean wants to just disappear.
“Hey, what did I say? Do not open my old bag, until I’ve removed some… stuff. Then, you can have it.” Brody bought him a brand-new backpack. Meaning, Daniel could have his old one.
“Ok, fine.” Daniel turns his attention back, towards the television. Sean looks at himself in the mirror. Brody bought both of them some clothes, and Sean’s cleaned his wounds, meaning he looks somewhat respectable now. A shower later, damn… he needs it.
“Ok, Enano. The bath is ready. go.” Daniel goes to the bathroom, Mushroom’s asleep on the bed. Sean steps out on the balcony. This is it. As soon as Daniel comes out, he’s going to tell him. Daniel’s going to break emotionally, he will despise Sean, for lying to him, and because… it’s Sean’s fault. He badly needs a smoke, but he’s out of cigarettes. There’s one thing he needs to do. He should have done it days ago. His phone.
Sean picks up his phone, scrolling through old photographs of himself, Daniel, dad, or Lyla. It’s just a few days ago, but it feels like a completely different life, maybe even a completely different person. He can’t torture himself like this. If he’s going to talk to Daniel, he needs to be somewhat stable. He turns off the phone. Then, he throws it in the ocean. This is his life now. Off-grid. He directs his attention to their motel room. Oh, god…
Sean walks in, the music is loud and cheerful, Mushroom’s barking and wagging her tail, and Daniel’s dancing on the bed, happier than ever. He can’t do it.
“Remember that song? Come on, dance!!!” Daniel reaches out with his hand, inviting Sean. He doesn’t want to. Sean just wants to sit down, and cry.
I can’t, sorry.” He turns off the music. Daniel’s obviously disappointed.
“Daniel, we have to talk.” Keep the serious look, man. You’re doing great. Breathe.
“Can I get a drink first? I’m thirsty?” Fuck off, you’re about to hear that your dad’s dead, and you want a soda? Sean’s panicking, he needs air. He knows he shouldn’t postpone this any longer. But he does it anyway. He does it because he can’t tell him.
“Fine. I’ll get you a soda. Then, we’ll talk.” The vending machine was only a twenty-second walk from their door. Sean puts some money inside, presses the button, and waits. He noticed how a light right outside their room began flickering, but he didn’t think anything of it. Neither, did he think much, when all the lights began flickering. Stuff like that can happen in cheap-ass neighborhoods.
“DAD!”
Shit!
No.
Please, no!
Sean runs back to the room, not giving a damn about the money he just wasted on a soda he didn’t take with him. Nothing could ever have prepared him for what waited behind the door…
Daniel stood in the center of the room, staring at the television. A television broadcasting a news report about their father’s murder. That’s bad enough. Once again, he let Daniel down as a brother. But it was far from the most shocking thing going on in that room. Very far. Every light was flickering, and, most shocking of it all, objects were flying around the air. It affected everything inside the room, living or not. Sean could barely enter the room, it felt like he almost ran into a wall, Mushroom appeared terrified, levitating slightly above the floor. There was only one who wasn’t affected. Daniel. His brother. Sean didn’t imagine it.
“Daniel?!?!?! What- what’s happening?” He’s convinced Daniel’s got no clue, but what the hell is he supposed to say?
“YOU LIED!!! Our dad’s DEAD! Why did you lie to me? You asshole!!!” God, it’s happening. He’s been dreading this moment. Combine it with, whatever is happening around them, and it’s a recipe for disaster.
“I didn’t know what to say, Daniel. I- I was scared… so scared.” He was scared and still is. He tries to slowly move towards his brother. Ok, he’s not backing away from you, Sean. That’s good.
“I hate you! You’re not my brother!” He knows Daniel’s hurting, but it still feels like a knife to the heart, hearing him scream those words.
“Don’t say that, Daniel. Remember what you said earlier today? I know you’re in pain, I know you’re angry… I am too… we… have to help each other. I’m sorry. I’m so fucking sorry, Enano.” Sean feels like he’s just rambling words, making shit up on the spot. However, all the chaos, settled down, from one second to the other. Everything fell to the ground, and all the lights returned to normal. Sean saw his chance, and approached his brother, embracing him.
“I want dad, Sean. I want dad.” Daniel cried painfully. Sean had no answer.
“Me too, Daniel. Me too.” Not even a little comfort.
“What are we gonna do without him?” Daniel looks at him, those big, brown eyes, filled with tears. Sean sees it. Fear. Complete and utter fear. Sean’s afraid too because he’s not sure about their plans yet. But Daniel can’t ever know, how scared Sean is. Daniel must have hope. Otherwise, all is lost.
“It’s gonna be ok, Enano. It’s gonna be ok.” Damn it, Sean. That’s not an answer!
“Just… don’t lie to me, ever again. Ever!” This, felt like karma to Sean. What the hell is he going to say? Daniel’s obviously expecting him to swear to never lie again. Something he can’t do, because he’s not sure what awaits them. That, and… he is who he is. If he says no, Daniel will feel disappointed, on a massive scale. Sean needs to be there for him now.
“I promise, Daniel… I will never, lie to you again.” Sean knew this was, most likely a lie. But it was a lie to protect Daniel, to make him happy. At least… he thinks it was.
“Sean… am I… a monster?” It truly hurt him, hearing Daniel ask that question, over and over again. He always gave the same answer.
“No, Daniel. Absolutely not. There’s nothing wrong with you. Nothing. You’re… different… that’s all.”
“Ok…” He’s still not convinced.
What are we going to do now, Sean?” He had thought about it. It’s not like he had a backup plan. So why not? Besides, Daniel needs a goal. Something to look forward to, instead of an endless road of… nothing.
“Well… I thought that we could go down to… Puerto Lobos. Dad’s hometown, you know…?” He looks at his brother. Out of habit, Sean’s expecting the overly-excited, semi-hyperactive side of Daniel to appear, spreading its joy. Only that… it doesn’t.
“Yeah, I’ll like that, Sean.” It’s now official. They’re going to Puerto Lobos. That, and the fact that the Daniel he grew up with, is changing. And not for the better. They’re sitting on a bus, in the middle of nowhere, heading nowhere. It’s only been two days since Daniel learned the truth, but Sean’s already noticed massive changes in his brother’s behavior. Heartbreaking changes. Painful changes.
“Could you tell me a story, Sean? Like… dad used to?” He needs to learn… He tries to remember, the stories his father told him.
“Once upon a time… in a wild, wild world… there were two wolfbrothers…” Sean tells his story, while Daniel, eventually, falls asleep, head resting on Sean’s shoulder. He looks at his brother. When Daniel’s asleep, Sean could finally shed a few, silent tears. How would he get them to Mexico? He felt like he was in way over his head. He knew he was. But, he would do anything, if it meant that his brother would get a good life. Anything. Right now, “anything” meant Mexico, meaning nothing could stop him from getting there. With his brother. There’s nothing they can’t do, as long as they’re together. Absolutely nothing. Sean wraps his arms around Daniel, then, he drifts off to sleep.
To be continued...