That's it. I'm going to kill him! Connor scratched his neck and gave a heavy sigh. "I'm…" He rubbed his forehead and turned towards Jas. "I'm sorry, okay? You have made me realize it's also not fair for me to want to hear something back when you're dealing with your shit right now." Connor crossed his hand and leaned his head against the wall as if he were praying. "We're not getting anywhere with this arguing." Connor slid down the wall resting his back on it. "You know… part of me was hoping my relationship wouldn't work out with Jake. He showed me repeatedly that it could, and it did. I hoped before we had kids and before we got married, you would've swooped in and told me you found a way to restore those memories." He found a tennis ball beside him and threw it against the wall as they talked. "What's the point of even having those memories now? What closure would either of us feel? I have my memories back. Now what? I divorce my husband, leave my two kids, and run away with you? I mean, at this point, it doesn't matter. I don't even know how you can still love me after many lives of me trying to murder your ass." Connor leaned his head back and looked toward the sky. "What went wrong for me to hate you? Because honestly, I don't even remember the reason anymore. Maybe back in 93'? No…much earlier." Connor shook his head. "It doesn't matter. We don't matter. This has just become a fight in whoever has it worse. Congratulations, you won." He stood up, dusting off his pants. Connor walked next to Jas and tossed him the ball. "If I'm the last person you want to see, then I guess this is the last time you'll be seeing me. Since when did you become such a cry baby, huh?"
"I did try, I really did try finding something sooner." He rasped softly, reluctantly sitting down beside Connor and gazing up at the sky. He bit back a sharp response and closed his eyes. "I wouldn't be able to that. Not to Jake, and not to your kids. Besides, it'd be pretty weird if you suddenly ran off with your cousin." He cracked a small smile and tilted his head towards Connor. "Cousin dear? Really? That's the best you could.come up with?" He teased, even as he slowly felt any hope of being with Connor in this life slip away. "I honestly don't know. Many these days would probably say I'd need a therapist for my weird attraction to you. I've always admired your resilience, the way, even if you seemed to not care on the outside, you clearly cared on the inside. No matter what happened, you put others safety and happiness before yours. On some selfish level, I wanted to be the one person you could relax with. I wanted to be the one who took care of you for once." Now that he said it outloud, it felt silly to Jas, to ever believe he ment anything more to Connor than just a neusance. "Definitely way before. I think I made you lose a fight or something back in Rome. You hold grudges for far to long, hon." He laughed softly and easily caught the ball, pushing himself up to stand. "Lets call it a tie for now, okay, I don't like winning against you much." He winked before frowning slightly. Somehow how never seeing Connor again was worse than the memory loss. "I didn't mean that dear. I'd still like to see you on occasion, if that's alright. I'll pretend to be the awkward cousin or whatever. Maybe I can finally meet Jake, make sure he's taking good care of you. And meet the kids, if you'll allow it." Jas chewed his lip nervously, wanting to hold Connor's hand even if it's be the last time in this life. He gave a strained laugh "always, according to Suni and Sash." He admitted, willing himself not to cry now. "I'm still going to find your memories, Connor. After all, you threatened to chop off my head if I didn't. And as selfish as it may be, I can't be the only one living with them. But for this life, I'll wait. If you still want them next life, I'm sure we'll find each other again." He hesitated only for a moment before he leaned in and gently pressed a kiss Connor's brow. "I love you Connor, forever and always." He murmured before taking a step back and giving his signature feline grin. "You know where to find me if you want to annoy the shit out of me." He winked and turned on his heal to find Finn.
Connor gave a genuine laugh and bumped Jas's shoulder. "It was short notice, okay. I wasn't exactly sure to explain my relationship with you since I don't even remember our relationship. How was I going to explain to him on my wedding day that you and I were immortals, basically? I panicked! So I was like yeah, that's my…cousin?" He stuffed his hands in his pocket, shaking his head. Jas's confession made heat rise to Connor's cheeks. He wasn't expecting something like that from him or anyone, really. Not even Jake made a heart-to-heart confession like that. Jas really did know him better than anyone else. "You…I can see how I could've fallen in love with you. Crazy how one sentiment can make me weak." He snickered. "So what if I hold my grudges. Listen, we almost took out the colosseum. Then you would teleport away, and I would be there half-dead while the reporters were like, 'are you okay?' Did I look okay?" It had been a while since he laughed like this. Sure, Jake had his ways of making him laugh, but reminiscing about that past made me want to be a hero again so that they could fight like old times. "So, you prefer me to win? I think you do need to see a doctor. And you don't have to pretend to be my cousin. I'll explain everything to Jake, and I'll ensure he doesn't hate you when he sees you. Who knows, maybe you two would get along. If you came over for dinner then, I would like that. Not today, but you know. At some point, I think it could work out." He kicked a rock only to have it break someone's car window. He hissed and held his breath. "I don't think that person saw me. It's fine. Also, I will definitely find an ax, chop your head off, and wait until the next life to do it again. It's your personal hell with me starring in it. Thank you for still looking." He gave a shaky breath when Jas leaned in closer. He shut his eyes, preparing to get hit, but he was surprised when such a warm feeling touched his brow. He took in a deep breath and nodded. "Yeah, yeah, that time will come soon, promise." Connor left soon after Jas did. This time he did look back, and he smiled. "Idiot."
"I heard that love!" Jas called as he gripped the handle of the store he had seen Finn dissapear into. He turned to watch Connor go but found him staring back with a beautiful smile. If Jas were in a movie or if he were a hero, he'd run back to Connor and sweep him up into a loving embrace, one Jas would promise he'd never let go from. But this wasn't a movie and Jas was never good at playing the hero. So he gave a small wave and headed inside.
"So he's the one that means so much to you." Finn noted with a warm smile as geeaned against the wall next the entrance, clearing having watch Jas and Connor's interaction. "I can't begin to image what both of you have been through." Jas heaved a sigh and nodded, "with every ounce of my heart and soul." He murmured, giving him one more moment to be sad before he nodded to Finn. "So you really can bring back his memories?" Jas asked. Finn tilted his head back and forth. "Yes, but it's going to take time."
Jas shrugged and gave a sharp smile. "Time is all I have."
(Time skip? Maybe to where Jas meets Jake and the kids?)
(Sure, sure!)
Connor was setting the plates down on the dining room table. "Hey, Jake, remember I have an old friend over in like twenty minutes! You should go freshen up. I'll take care of the kids." He watched Jake come in with each of them on their shoulder as if he were plain. "They wanted a plane ride, so I gave them one. Go to your dad, and I will go take a shower." Jake leaned down and let the children run Connor's legs. He smiled a pressed a kiss to his forehead. "I will be back before our guest arrives. Trust me." Connor tapped his chest and watched him leave to go to the bathroom. Connor had to walk with two kids on his feet as he set the food down in the center of the table. "So while we wait for my friend, let's discuss some ground rules. Just behave yourselves. Don't pull on his hair and do everything you do with me, okay?" Asher and Charlotte nodded rapidly and then ran off to chase each other. Connor smiled and looked at his watch. He then looked at the food and turned one of the plates so it would like up with the rest. Why am I so nervous? Come on. I've seen his stupid face plenty of times. He's just coming over for dinner…it's not that big of a deal. He paced around the kitchen, fixing his hair into a bun. He then rubbed the dirt off his glasses and stressed cleaned to make sure the place didn't look like Connor had never cleaned it.
(is this the same Jake as the last life or a different one?)
Jas fixed his hair for what seemed to be the millionth time as he stood in the hall of the pent house. It had felt odd coming back here. A place he had once shared with Connor and had called home was now someone else's. He took a deep breath and gently knocked on the door, adjusting his hold on the stuffed animals he had brought for the kids. He had thought about bringing flowers but he thought that might look weird. So instead he brought a wine from Italy. He had grown out grown out his hair a bit since it seemed to fit his brooding guitarist life, now falling in long waves to his shoulders, streaks of purple shown through if he tilted his head in the right direction. His ears had become more fluffy within the past five years or so, more adjacent to a maine coon than a typical short haired cat. He wondering if Connor had stayed the same or if the kids had gotten bigger. He just hoped everything would be alright tonight. He thought that they had left off on a good note five years ago, and thought they were relatively okay when they texted or called on rare occasion. Jas sucked in a deep breath and sent a small prayer to Suni and Sasha, hoping they'd help him tonight.
(Nah, different, Jake. I didn't feel like coming up with another name)
Connor heard a knock on the door. Instead of opening it, he rushed to the mirror to see if he looked presentable. His appearance didn't change much; he didn't have the time or the energy. Asher was now ten, and Charlottle was now five. Taking care of two babies and working simultaneously is quite the challenge. His hair was still a dark shade of purple. It is the hair he was born with. His was a little longer, but he kept it in a ponytail or bun since he didn't like his hair down. He stared at himself for hours before he finally opened the door. Connor sucked in a deep breath and just stared. A shy smile was making its way onto Connor's lips. He forgot the words "hello" and "come in" as soon as he saw him. Connor has seen Jas more times than he can count, so why… Connor quickly snapped out of it was Asher came to hug his leg. "Hi…um, sorry, please come in." He stepped aside and picked up Asher as well. When Jas wan in, he closed the door behind him and looked at Asher with a questionable face. "Aren't you too old to want me to carry you? Jas, you can sit anywhere you like. Make yourself comfortable, and then I can get Charlotte and introduce you."
Jas snapped his head up from looking at the ground and immediately gave a smile at seeing Connor. "Hello, dear." He greeted warmly, almost in relief at seeing Connor rather than his husband at the door. "Don't apologies, you're probably busy." He chuckled lightly and stepped into the home, smiling at Asher. "This can't possibly be Asher, he's grown so much!" Jas exclaimed, returning his attention to Connor when he spoke. "Thank you." He held onto Connors gaze for what might have been too long but Jas didn't care. After not seeing him in what felt like forever, jas wanted to get a food look at Connor, wanting to make sure he looked okay and happy. "You look good dear, I'm glad." He muttered softly, brushing past him and settling on the edge if the sofa, setting the two stuffed bears beside him as well as the bottle of wine. He gazed around the home, finding cute pictures of Connor with Jake and the kids on various vacations or at events. They looked happy, as much as has wanted to be jelous of that, seeing Connor happy only filled him with relief. That was all jaswanted for Connor, at least now. Jas wanted Connor to be happy, even if that meant without him.
Connor looked back and smiled. "Yeah, he has grown a bit. Asher was five when I ran into you last. You would think he would've gotten a bit more mature, but he's still my little boy. Go say hi to Jas while I get your sister, okay?" he set Asher down and watched him run over to Jas. Connor sucked in a breath when Jas said he looked good. "Oh, uh, thank you, you look great as well. I like what you did with your hair too. I'll be back. Just give me a minute." Connor left the room to find Charlotte.
Asher climbed up onto the couch and stared at Jas. "So your Jas, huh…." he looked at him up and down. "I've heard a lot about you. Mostly because Dad tells us many stories about you and him. He said a lot of weird things while he described you, though. He might want to check out a doctor for his fascination with your collar bone." Asher tapped his shoulder, shaking his head in disappointment.
On the other hand, Charlotte popped up from behind a plant and started crawling on the couch. She struggled to get up but eventually could sit next to Jas on the other size. "Hello! My name is Charlotte!" She giggled, kicking her feet. She straightened out her shirt and looked at her brother Asher. "Dad told us to be on our best behavior Ash. Not to expose him." She huffed.
"Said the one hiding behind a plant." Asher scoffed.
Has glanced away from the photos and to the boy sitting beside him. He gave Asher an equally inquisitive look though it wad more playful than judgemental. “The one and only. And you’re Asher, ive heard a lot about you fron your dad.” Jas replied with a smile. He arched an eyebrow and laughed. “My collar bone, huh?” He glanced down at himself and tilted his head curiously. He'd have to mention that to Connor before he left. He was surprised when a young girl popped out of nowhere and came to sit on his other side. "Hello, I remember you. But you were this snal when last I saw you, princess." Jas said, bringing his hands close togetjer. He laughed warmly, "I don't mind, you can ask any questions you want." He reassured, reaching behind Asher to retrieve the two stuffed animals he had gotten the kids. "Before I forget, these are for you. I wasn't sure what you'd like so I both got you bears." He said a bit sheepishly, hand one of the two identical plush bears to each of the kids.
Charlotte took it and hugged it. "It's so cute! Thank you, Jas!" She grinned and crossed his legs resting the bear on her lap. "You can never have too many stuffed animals!" Charlotte was very happy with the bear. She always loved getting stuffed animals, since she had been collecting them practically since birth. She started to play with the arms and hum a song while she did so. Asher look at the bear and grinned as well. "Sweet, thanks Jas. You didn't have to bring us gifts, but thanks a lot!" Asher rested his head on the bear's head and held his arms around it.
Connor came in the room moments later. "Charlotte!" He called. "Hey, have you seen-" Connor turned around making eye contact with Charlotte. "Where have you been young miss. I was looking for you everywhere." Connor picked up Charlottle along with the bear. "You should really tell me if we're playing hide and seek, because if I don't know where playing how would I know to look in the spots where you usually hide." He shook his head and sat down next to Jas with Charlotte on his lap. "Jake is just taking a shower and freshening up a bit, so he'll be out in a few minutes. "It was nice of you to get them gifts. You really didn't have to."
"That's what I said." Asher chimed in.
"Right, anyway, how have you been? When we text we mostly just talk about the memory thing, but I would like to know what you're up to in Italy. I've never been. If I have it was probably because you were there and I needed to fight you or attempt to bring you in." Connor sighed. "I haven't really stayed long enough to sightsee and just enjoy it for a bit."
"you're both very welcome. I'm glad you like them." Jas smiled softly and glanced up at when Connor came back into the room. "I'm assuming that the little princess likes to hide a lot." Jas concluded, shaking his head "I wanted to get them something. It would have felt wrong, at least to me, if I didn't." Jas sighed and settled back into the couch, gentle ruffling Ash's head before glancing at Connor, eyes widening slightly in surprise when he mentioned their situation with his kids present. "I've been well." He replied with a slight smile. "Mostly been touring here and there. Nothing too out of the ordinary. We went to Ireland a few weeks ago. You wouldn't believe how beautiful it is up there. When I get back I think we're going to new Zealand." He scratched the back of his head, suddenly shy about telling Connor about his life. He was an artist now and he didn't want to sound pretentious about it. "You'd all love Italy. I don't think we've been before, at least not where I live now. It's pretty close to where I lived with Winston so I thought it would have been a good idea to go back, see what's changed." He explained. "If you ever want to visit just let me know and we'll see things up for a vacation or something." He said with a wider smile, excited by the idea of Connor and his family to come to italy.
Connor's chest tightened. "Wow, you seem to be traveling quite a bit. I'm happy for you. New Zealand is pretty far. You better be safe, or else I will come over there and kick your ass." He chuckled. "I'm sure Jake would love to go on a vacation to Italy. I'm sure they would love it there, and you would get to show me around your hometown or any part of Italy." Connor set Charlotte down and nodded for Asher to go with her. "Can you two go get on papa for me? He seems to be taking his sweet time." They both nodded before practically running to go check up on Jake. "They like to race each other a lot. That must be what that is. I honestly don't know why they even do it. Asher wins every time." He shrugged and looked at the wine bottle. "I'll go get us some glasses. Might as well crack it open tonight, right?" Connor got up from the couch and took two wine glasses off the table and a bottle opener. "S-So, you mentioned, 'we' who are you traveling with?" He cleared his throat bringing back the items he picked up.
Jas gave a surprised laugh and nodded “I promise you this little kitty is always safe.” He winked and grinned, ears flicking in genuine amusement. “”Yeah, that’d be great. We can sort or the hotel and travel plans whenever you choose a date.” Has agreed, watching as the two kids ran off. He smiled fondly “they’re beautiful kids Connor. You and Jake did an amazing job raising them. They’re going to be amazing individuals with two amazing parents. Thank you, truly, for letting me be a part of their lives, even if its just for a moment or two.” He watched as Connor stood to grab the wine glasses and corkscrew. He grinned and tilted his head curiously. “Are you jealous dear? You don’t need to worry, sweetheart, I’m meant with the band I’m playing with. We travel together to different venues.” He took the bottle and carefully uncorked and poured a bit of wine into each glass. “It’s still just me and dad. Suni, sash, and mom come to visit a lot though so that’s nice. I havn’t really had time or much energy to date.”
Connor set the wine glasses down. "Thank you, jas. I guess I had so many examples of what not to do as a parent I formed my own opinion on what a parent should be." He took the wine bottle and removed the cork. Connor's facial features scrunched up. "Of course not. I would never be jealous. I-I don't have a reason to be." he filled up both wine glasses and cleared his throat. "I mean, that's not what I was trying to get out of you, but that's nice to know. I never imagined you in a band, though. I can't see it. Wait, let me guess, you play drums?" Connor sat on the couch and crossed his legs over the other. He raised his glass toward Jas so they could clink their glasses together. "I don't have a toast to make this out to, but if I had one, I guess it would be settling our differences and not almost killing each other every time we meet." Connor chuckled and rested his cheek on the palm of his hand.
"no I suppose you don't." Externally Jas was still giving an easy smile, but on the inside he flimched. He was past this petty taunting, past trying to get Connor to come back to him. There was no reason for any of that now and Jas knew deep down he'd feel terrible if he was the one to drive a wedge between Connor and Jake. Jas took a much needed sip of wine and shook his head with a small laugh. "Surprising no, actually. I'm a guitarist. Though you're not the first to assume I play drums." He arched an eyebrow and gently clinked their glasses together. "To not ripping each other to pieces each time we make eye contact." Jas toasted, nodding his head and taking a longer gulp of delicious, sweet wine.
(Is it bad that I imagine Jas looking like Eddie from stranger things?)
Connor took a long sip and well and leaned his head back against the couch when he was done. "That was some good wine. I can't wait to finish the bottle." He sighed happily and spread his arm about across the backboard of the couch. He felt lips on his, which he could only assume was Jake. He raised his arm slowly around Jake's neck, keeping him there for the kiss, before pulling away. "Look who decided to show up finally. Honestly, what were you doing in the shower? What were you preparing for war or something?"
Jake shook his head and laughed as he leaned to see Jas staring at him. "No, I was taking my time. I didn't think he would get here so fast." He stepped over Connor's legs and held out his hand. "Hello, my name is Jake, but you probably already knew. Your Jas, right? It's great to meet you finally. I got this one talking my ear off about you and your crazy adventures. It seems to be the main topic of discussions at dinner tables instead of our days. Great to put a name to the face."
Connor hit Jake's back. "He's lying. I do not talk about you that often. It seems like I do because you're always asking questions about him since now you know that we've known each other for centuries?" Connor shrugged and put the kids at the table. "Alright, let's eat before it gets cold. I cooked all this food and would hate to let it go to waste. Besides, I've been practicing a lot, so I hope you guys will enjoy it." Connor sat down at the head of the table and waited for Jas and Jake.
(oh jeez, yeah that's not at all what I had in mind for how has would look😂)
Jas glanced up from his glass and shook Jake's hand. "The one and only." He was surprised to hear that Jake knew about their immortality, even more surprised that he was seemingly alright with that. "I'm glad to be topic of interest to you." Jas said, laughing when Connor playful hit his husband. "I hope most of whatConnor says are good things,I'd hate to make a bad first impression." Jas stood and stretched before following the family to the table. He glanced around before sheepishly settling into the chair across from Jake, on Connor's other side but not directly next to him.it still felt weird, being around Connor yet, for the first time, being completely separate from him. It made Jas' heart knowing Connor was living a separate life away from jas but he was still happy. Happy that Connor was happy, that he made other people very happy. It was more than Jas hope for when it came to Conbor's happiness. "For the record I'm not his cousin." Jas added quickly with a grin, turning his gaze from the family to the food, eyes widening in awe. "This looks great, thank you again for inviting me over."
(I think it's just the hair that's giving me that idea XD)
"Of course, all good things, all good things." Jake hummed as he sat down, pulling in his chair. "The spread looks delicious, darling. Thank you for cooking all of this." Jake gave a small prayer before starting to eat. Jake wasn't the type to enforce religion on his children or spouse. If they wanted to pray, they would; if not, that's also okay. "Oh, I know. It was a very long conversation explaining your guys' relationship. There was so much to cover I wasn't exactly what to believe. Soon enough, I realized a lot about this world that I didn't know about. In the end, I had to believe him because I trust him, and I know he would never lie unless it were for a good reason." Jake ruffled Connor's hair which got him a glare.
"I just fixed my hair." he laughed. "It takes forever to get my hair to stay down." Connor sighed and began to eat. "You two down there, eat slowly, okay? I don't want you choking." The kids nodded and began to eat silently, letting the grown-ups talk. "They're so respectful, I'm not sure how I got them that way, but I am very happy they are the way they are." He smiled and took himself before looking over to Jas. "Speaking of which, I know we talk about it over text, but did you find someone who can maybe bring my memories back? I know we came here for a friendly dinner, so you can tell me later if you would like." Connor stood up from the table and grabbed the wine bottle Jas had brought for them. He poured out the wine for Jake before sitting back down.
(ah gotcha XD)
Jas laughed softly in surprise. "I'm honestly surprise. We usually don't tell people about us and our immortality, other than a very select few. I've heard more talk about it over that past few years but it's still not as widlt known." He said with a small smile. He chewed slowly through his first bite, eyes fluttering closed as he savored the food. He hadn't realized just how much he missed Connor's cooking. Granted now it tasted much better but it still tastes familiar. When he opened his eyes he smiled softly at the family before him. It was his, it would never be but he was glad Connor had the chance he never seemed to get. He found himself toying with his necklace, now back down to two wedding bands. He had taken Connor's wedding band off, not wanting to risk anyone asking questions and him having to explain that it had been meant for Connor. He glanced up and nodded "no, no it's alright. Uhm, Finn a friend who knows a thing or two about memory loss in people with abilities. Apparently it's more common than we thought, though lessin immortals. I'm going to go with Finn to see them in a few months once we finish a short tour I'm doing with the band." He explained glancing over at Jake for a moment before looking back down at his plate.
Connor looked down at the wedding bands, noticing one missing from when they were in high school. He looked concerned, wondering what happened to the third one, but he left it alone. He looked up and nodded when given the information. "Well, I look forward to what he has to say. Hopefully, good news, I can get my memories back." Connor finished eating his meal and pushed himself away from the table. He went to the kitchen with his plate to wash them and put them back where they belonged. He also took this time to clean the pots and other dishes he used to make the meal. The kids rushed over to Connor once they fished their food and gave Connor their plates. They then dance around Connor's legs as he washed the dishes. This left Jake and Jas alone at the table.
Jake watched Connor wash the dishes with an admiring smile and then looked back to Jas. "So, these memories. I assume they're from the life you had as Connor's lover. He told me about it when explaining the whole immortal thing." He took the glass of wine and began to drink small sips. "Listen, I'm not the type to restrict him from going anywhere or change what he wants to do. However, I also don't want him to leave me for you. Let's be honest I see the way you look at him. I've seen how you get when you eat his food. I get it; he once made it for you. The bad thing is, since you seemed to have had such an intimate relationship with him, he'll probably leave me in one way or another. I'm saying I don't trust him to stay. By the way, you look at him. Who's to say he will not want to be yours again when his memories are restored?" He rocked his wine glass and watched the legs come down from the rim. "So, when you go to see Finn or whoever. Since he already asked for an update, you're going to tell him that you were wrong, and there's no way he can get his memories back. If not, bad things will happen, Jas, and no one will like it."
Jas watched as Connor left with his empty plate before going back to his dish. He quirked an eyebrow and slowly took a sip of wine, savoring the sweetness down his throat. "Did he now?" He tilted his head innocently "I'm surprised since he constantly Denies any life where we were was once lovers." Jas said, falling silent as he let Jake speak. His ears slowly flattened against his head in defense As much as Jas wanted Connor back, he wasn't going to take him away from his current relationship. Jas had accepted that quite quickly after highschool. He didn't like that Jake even would consider Connor the type of man to up and leave a family he was clearly devoted to, no matter his situation with Jas. He slowly leanwd forwards and leaned into his more dangerous side. The side that told him every now and then to challenge authority and the rules. The side that Connor probably hated him the most for. He gave a short humorless laugh, "I never would have taken you as the black mailing sort, Jake. From how much Connor told you, surely he would have mentioned a bit of my own story. You don't want to threaten me, dear. Especially after I've done nothing wrong." He purred softly, keeping his voice low so Connor or the kids wouldn't hear. "Connor has made a life of his own completely separate from me. And I'm genuinely happy for him and for you and the kids. I'm also thankful that you both are allowing me to have a place in connor's life, no matter how insignificant. So now I'm thinking this whole lovey dovey peace love and happiness is shit. This whole act you're putting to appease your husband while I'm here is complete shit." Jas' eyes narrowed. "If you'd only kept your mouth shut, and if you could even fathom the thought that I'm somewhat of a decent person, you would have known that I don't plan on letting Connor know about his memories until the next life, perhaps a few lives, just to let him have some time in between to relax and reminice. That's up to him. Not me, and certainly not you." He slowly stood and took his empty plate and glass of wine. "But I guess my decency only extends so far. I will be gone after that tour to see Finn and his friend. I'll report back to Connor whatever I damn choose, whether that's the truth or a lie. Know that's all for him and for his children. I could give less than a shit about what you want. If you're so insecure about your standing with connor that you threaten me of all people, then you do not deserve his fierce loyalty, his undeniable love for you and only you this life, nor his commitment to you. Threaten me once more and I will make your life hell. Thanks for your hospitality." With that, and an annoyed flick of his ears, jas headed to the kitchen to drop off his plate. Pulling an easy smile for the kids and Connor.
Jake growled the closer Jas got to him. He watched him move to that kitchen. Jake tapped his finger on the table impatiently. Connor looked over to Jas when he appeared in the kitchen. "Hey, what were you two talking about? Anything fun?" Connor gave a bright smile as he started on Jas's plate. "Can you do me a favor and start bringing the leftover food to the counter. I want to put it in Tupperware before they go bad. Leftovers are the key to fueling a family-" Connor jumped when he heard a slam on the table. The house went silent as Jake marched away from the table.
The only sound running through the house was the water from the sink. He flinched again when he heard the door slam in their room. Connor's heart was racing, not with worry or sadness, but with fear. He dropped the place into the sink, which made another loud bang making him jump. He snapped out of his fearful gaze and returned to washing the dishes. His bright smile faded, and his hands started to shake as he scrubbed the plate clean. He put the plate aside and looked down the Asher. "Can you um…can you take your sister to get ready for bed? I'll be with you guys soon to tuck you in and kiss you good night, okay?" Asher nodded and took his sister to the bathroom to get ready. He waved a slight wave to Jas and then disappeared. Connor let out a shaky breath before walking to the table to get Jake's plate so he could wash it. "U-Um, anyway, i-if you could come to bring the f-food, that would be a great help." He tried his best to fake a smile, but he was never really good at doing that.
"nothing much, dear. Just our mutual agreement on how wonderful you are." Jas reassured, head snapping up when he heard the bang from the kitchen. He instinctuall6 moved close to the kids and Connor, following Jake with a narrowed gaze until he was gone from view. Pressed beside Connor, Jas could niw feel him trembling, felt his heartbeat quicken, snelled the scent of fear radiating off of him. Damn Jake, damn him for ever making his family ever fear him. Jas got the feeling that this wasn't the first time Jake has had an outburst. He slowly took a step away from Connor and slowly returned his gaze back to Connor and the kids. Jas have a soft smile to Asher and Charlotte and waved. He slowly followed Connor to kitchen, glading off to where Jake had dissapeared off to brood before starting to gather the trays and caserol dishes of food. "Of course, heart." He went back to the kitchen and easily found some Tupperware, unsurprised to see that it was stored in the same place as it was in their previous life. "Has he hurt you or the kids?" Has asked softly, peeking over to Connor and searching for any bruises or scratches or any form of wounds. "Does he get like that often?" He took a slow deep breath and gently took Connor's hand in his own, pressing a small key into his hand. While keeping an eye the hall, has saud softly into Connor's ear. "If you ever feel unsafe, no matter from Jake or someone else, Suni's temple and the apartments I used to live in are yours and the kids to use. There are instructions there on how to contact suni. He'll protect you until I get here." He stepped back and went back to packing the food as if he had done nothing. Once he finished putting everything neatly into the fridge he found some mint chocolate chip ice cream. "The sure the kids won't mind if I have a bit." He winked and found two bowls, scooping a generous ball of ice cream into each bowl.
"I…I…" He stumbled on his words. Jake had never lashed out in front of someone else. He wasn't sure just how much he could trust Jas yet. He was so close to lying, but when their hands touched, he felt like he could. Connor looked at the key before shoving it into his pocket. He looked to the hallway, and the energy from his room made him feel uneasy. Connor held his hand tightly. "I'm not sure. I get bruises daily, but when I ask him what happened, he says I fell. I always assume he was right because of how clumsy I get, and then…" He tried to swallow the lump in his throat. "When we were dating in high school, I was lonely, and he was the only person who could pull me out of my slump. We had a big fight in high school, but we worked it out, but after that, I started to remember less and less of our moments together. My body would be sore; I wouldn't know why. Then he would say we exercised, but the memories were a bit hazy and out of place." He put the packed food into the fridge. "I didn't want to tell anyone because I felt like I was going crazy." He closed the refrigerator and pushed his forehead against the fridge. "Asher came to me one day and looked at me with the most innocent look on his face. He mentioned that Jake's eyes would turn red sometimes, and I could be all confused. Then Asher asked me if Jake had powers. I thought he didn't, Jas, I…" he choked. He crossed his arms over his chest to control his emotions. "I asked…Asher what he meant. He said…" Connor bit his lip to stop it from quivering. "God…He said that I was always on the ground whenever his eyes turned red, and I would fall asleep for 5 seconds and then wake up confused. I…I hated myself for not realizing it for so long. So many things were missing, I…I should've known that something was up when I saw all of the bruises and scars on my back. I hated myself for having Asher see something that. He didn't deserve it." Connor tried his best to walk away from the refrigerator, but his legs felt like jello as he managed to walk over to Jas and clutched his arm.
Jas slowly turned around, face blank save for his eyes. Deep emrald eyes flashing with uncontrollable rage. "How dare he." He growled, voice low so Jake or the kids didn't hear, canines sharpening into fangs. His ears flicked as smoke poured off his body, his demon cat aching to get his claws bloody. Jas clentched down on his anger, as painful as was. He managed to catch Connor last minute and hugged him close, tucking him against the safety of his body. "Go get the kids, dear. Leave everything here, just get the kids quietly and we'll go to suni's temple. He'll keep us safe just until I can book three more tickets back to Italy. We'll find your memories. We'll explain everything to the kids. " He whispered quickly, mind already racing with things he'd have to but in case they'd stay longer in his apartment. "Why did you tell me sooner dear? I know we promised to stay out of each other's lives for the most part but was sthis not something that you think would have concerned me?" He shook his head a d nudged connor's. "Get the kids. We'll go to a safe place, please connor."
"I-I'm not sure….I…." Connor's heart was racing so fast, and his mind was going a mile a minute, but all he could think about were the words "go get the kids." He pulled away from Jas and managed to wipe his tears. "O-Okay, I can try. I'm sorry." He ambled to the bathroom, where the kids were about to brush their teeth. "Hey, I have a surprise for you. Jas also brought something else with him. He brought Ice cream in your favorite flavor. Let's go eat some, and then you can brush your teeth, okay?" He could feel eyes on him, but he wasn't exactly sure where. His kids grew excited and started to jump around like kangaroos. Conor tried his best to hold back everything that told him to get the kids out and have Jas return for him later. He grabbed both of their hands before seeing Jake's head poking out of the doorway, which frightened him. "Honey, w-what are you doing in the doorway like that?" Jake didn't respond and only held out a finger telling him to come in the room after the ice cream was done. He then shut the door, and chills ran down his spine. He looked at Jas and shook his head, telling him not to make any noise. He quickly got their shoes and coats on. Even though it was Summer, the nights were still cold. He slipped on his shoes and coat, looking back to the door that Jake was hiding behind. He looked back to the kids and signaled them to go out first. He opened the door just enough so they could get through. Asher made Charlotte go first before he went through the door. "What do you think you're doing?" Connor froze. He knew this was a bad idea. How could he think that he could escape from something inevitable?
"don't ever be sorry dear." Jas said firmly, letting Connor go and fetch the kids while he finished up tidying up the kitchen, not even bothering with the now melting ice cream on the counter. He glanced up when he heaed voices, brows creasing in worry that Jake had stopped them. He let out a small sigh of relief when he saw the kids in the living room. He waved and offered a smile before nodding to Connor. His gaze narrowed when Jake came into view, his body and possibly Wisp, yelling at him to get away from whatever negative energy Jake was emittimg. Not with Connor or the kids. He quietly backed himself against the sink and grabbed for the ceramic casserole dish the had been drying off to the side. Two lives enjoying a somewhat peaceful life wasn't enough to even begin to quell his assassin instincts.
Jake backed Connor up against the door. "Did you think you were leaving with some wanna-be hero? He can't save you, darling. Besides, what is there to save you from. Did I scare you?" He smirked. "That's too bad. Don't worry. You'll forget this later and think that Jas is the bad guy, not me. You know I would never hurt you. Right?" Jake pushed Connor against the door hard enough to close it entirely. "There's nothing to fear when I'm here, right? You said it yourself. Way back when." Jake took Connor's neck in his hands softly as first. "Come on, baby. Just lead the kids back into the apartment, and we can all be one happy family." Jake was being reasonable.
Connor grit his teeth, his eyes flickering to Jas every so often. "No…" He felt the hand grip tighter around his neck and watched how his eyes glowed red. He couldn't move, and his body stopped struggling. "I've had enough of the lies…I…can't do this…anymore." It was getting harder to breathe the more he spoke.
Jake's eye twitched. "No? Oh. I wished I didn't have to do this. I wanted your mind as healthy as possible, but that isn't the case." He shook his head, returning the memories he stole and replaced from Connor. "Now, you listen to me…The kids can go away; I don't care. You? No, you're staying with me. Just you and me. Just like we promised on our wedding day. Forever."
Jas breathing became labored as he started to piece things together, how he had never found Connor until that highschool dance that seemed ages ago. How he had heard from distant friends that Connor was now dating Jake. How on a whim Connor would text or chat only when he seemed to remember Jas' existence. He had chalked that up to their promise of staying away from each other. And maybe that was it for a time, Connor had been growing a family and Jas was buding his dream career. But now all of that sou.ded like an excuse. An excuse from Jake to make sure jas was truely hated by Connor, if only to keep his own status in Connor's life secure. His gaze snapped up when the door clicked shut, locking the kids out of the apartment for now. Good, they didn't need to see the monster one of their father's was. Nor did they need to see the monster jas could become. He caught Connor's gaze and mouthed an "I'm sorry" as he carepy picked his way through the kitchen and dining room. An I'm sorry for all the times he had left Connor alone to deal with this man. An I'm sorry for not realizing sooner what had been going on while he froliced Italy. An I'm sorry for Connor own sense of hope, hope that he could have a normal family for once without jas or tragedy. He slowly raised the ceramic caserol dish above his head, sent a small prayer to his mom, and smashed it over Jakes head, a sickening crack rang through his ears as thick skull met solid ceramic, the dish shattering in Jas' hands. He took a step back to let Jake slump to the floor. (I have a slight plan with Jake so he's not dead…yet). Jas dropped the remains of the dish, ignoring the blood seeping out from cuts on his hands and gently tugged Connor along with him through the door, scooping up one of the kids and leading the way outside.
