#esfanfic

You awaken, slowly and peacefully, a welcomed and appreciated change given the events over the past few days. Sabertooth tigers, ice-breathing foxes, sabotage and betrayal. A break was a long time coming.

Blinking the sleep from your eyes, you gradually become aware of the faint snoring beside you. A long scar glows in the sun light. One arm tucked awkwardly under and behind her head, wrapped around her like a scarf with her face snuggled in the crook of her elbow. The other rested comfortable upon your chest while her legs curled to her chest. You wonder how she can sleep like that.

You wonder a lot of things about Estela.

Shifting to get a better view, your movement stirs her. Eyes spring open in a fraction of a second, alert and staring straight through you.

Silence.

An unwavering, blank stare. She blinks once, then twice before speaking. “Good morning.” Her voice is like a whisper, masking the curiosity her eyes betray. She watches you, awaiting your next move. Like a game of chess.

“Good morning,” You repeat, meet with more silence. Joints creaking from the strain, she rises up and off the couch. Your heart sinks as her back turns to you and she begins to walk away. “Wait,” You call, trying to chase after her, but your body doesn’t agree with the sudden movement. You fall back down and find yourself awkwardly rolling to your side to sit back up. “Don’t go.”

Emrys emotionally devastated about his break up hurriedly rushed into Diego’s arms the moment he arrived at the apartment door. Diego embraced his best friend as Emrys’ body writhed wearily wailing and sobbing to the point of exhaustion. After hours of incoherent crying Emrys finally rested peacefully on the couch. Diego retrieved a blanket and laid it over Emrys kissing his forehead gently before retreating to his room to sleep. The next morning Emrys unable to face Estela cancelled his membership to her self-defense classes, and decided to sulk spooning a pillow while he weeped into its fabric. Diego shoots Emrys a concerned glance before heading out to train with Estela. 

When Diego set his gym bag aside and joined the class Estela relayed an aura of an aching heart concealed behind a stoic expression. Once the class was dismissed Estela abruptly left before Diego could attempt persuading her to reconcile her friendship with Emrys. The lingering guilt associated with the breakup clouds Emrys’ conscience throughout the duration of his school week. The study group had noticed Emrys become easily frustrated lashing out with angry fits blaming the school for his stress. Emrys manages to complete his assigned tasks, but it had become increasingly difficult for the group to endure his insufferable attitude. Aleister decided to voice his opinion the moment he reached his limit, “Emrys! Please can you momentarily set aside your excessive insipid theatrics over your banal breakup, and remain focused on the task at hand.” Grace whirls to face Aleister with a steely glare to indicate how insensitive his comment was toward Emrys. Additionally, Michelle supported Aleister’s honesty and spoke her own truth, “Honestly, it’s been weeks since the breakup it’s time to let it go.” Emrys had become despondent to their words the moment he realized his feelings were being invalidated by his friends. 

Without another word he gathered his supplies, and headed straight toward the library’s exit fuming frustration consuming his thoughts. Emrys stormed into his apartment with irrational resentment towards his closest peers. He ravaged the organization of his room by swiping everything from his desk clattering to the floor violently fueling his fury. Emrys tore the the duvet from his bed as he thrashed the fabric around senselessly blinded by exasperation. He aggressively cursed his friends, family, and anyone who his mind wanted to impart blame upon. Diego heard distinct sounds of objects being discarded by Emrys as his adult tantrum raged on. As Diego entered the room a textbook barreled toward his head barely being able to evade it before it slammed against the wall. 

Emrys’ enraged visage softened at the sight of Diego being noticeably terrified by Emrys’ impulsive behavior. “Diego, I’m so sorry I didn’t mean to scare you. God why can’t I do anything right?! I almost hurt my best friend! I betrayed my group by wallowing in self pity. I caused so much pain… Estela I —“, before he can finish his knees buckle as he collapsed on the ground hopelessness defeating his once fiery spirit. Diego steps out of the room for a second to make an important call. Emrys follows Diego across the campus to the football field lights illuminated the dark space the patches of grass still freshly cut from the afternoon practice. Diego held Emrys by the wrist as his best friend languidly strolled across the grass dragging his feet intentionally. Emrys noticed a figure in the distance shrouded by darkness. As he got closer he realized it was Estela. 

Diego gave Emrys an encouraging shove toward Estela to finally allow closure to occur. Estela’s eyes resembled a void they were worn out of energy. It had lost the luster that Emrys always complimented in the past. Estela finally broke the silence, “ Emrys, the time we spent apart allowed me to realize something.” Emrys’ heart raced as the anticipation of her response elevated the stakes. “I’ve come to the realization that I want to be in your life,” Estela earnestly states. The dread that Emrys carried within him dissipated instantly intently listening to Estela’s words, “ I’ve come to accept that we may never be together as we once were, but a life without you is something I can’t accept. I learned to love openly and be vulnerable because of you I can’t just ignore how happy you make me. Even when I’m on the shores of San Trobida, and you are in the suburbs out looking the neighborhood I will always cherish you in my thoughts. I love you Emrys.” Tears began streaming down Estela’s cheeks awaiting Emrys’ response, “I hope you still like hugs because you deserve the best hug I can give. I love you too, Estela,” Emrys longingly holds her cupping her head in his hand, and offering his chest as she pours her emotions out. The trio had restored their friendship promising to return to their respective homes every possible opportunity they had.

Emrys and his study group began rigorously studying the material for their midterms, which were happening in a few weeks after the break. Michelle had researched every possible book that would give them an advantage to fully understand each concept of every lesson they’ve learned so far. Grace highlighted every key factor of each concept on the review material from the entire year that her highlighter dried up. Aleister drafted so many pages of review questions on an online documents that his finger were twitching involuntarily from their lack of rest. Lastly, Emrys had asked each of his professors individually for advice for their tests. They answered him in vague terms, which frustrated him because he began studying each lesson incessantly to ensure he wouldn’t miss a single question. Estela noticed how stressed Emrys was and would offer to massage him to relieve the physical strain the studying had induced. Estela made Emrys promise to give himself a break every so often, and said once they were on the trip he would limit his study sessions to one hour per day. 

The fateful day came that marked the beginning of their fall break. Estela effortlessly carried both Emrys’ luggage and her own because she told him that he should relax and she would take care of all the manual labor on the trip. They both arrived at the airport where Jake was awaiting their arrival along with Mike. Estela introduced herself, “Hello I’m Estela nice to meet you two. I’m so thankful that the both of you offered to fly us to our destinations for free. If there’s anything I can do for y’all in San Trobida don’t be afraid to ask.” Estela smiled as the gentleman returned her greeting with their own as they stored the luggage away together. Emrys slid comfortably in a seat next to his girlfriend as they prepared for takeoff. A few hours into the flight heading towards Texas Estela gently shook Emrys awake and seductively whispered, “Hey I was thinking of having a little fun while were still on the plane.” She grasped his length underneath his pants as it throbbed for release. “Meet me in the back when you’re ready,” Estela said confidently as she slinked in the bathroom. Emrys eager to please her snatched a condom from his carry on bag and headed toward the cabin’s restroom with risqué swagger. The plane jostled with slight turbulence as the couple engaged in a steamy endeavor leaving the restroom panting from the satisfying experience returning to their seats slumped. Emrys laced his fingers with Estela’s hand as the pair mutually rested their foreheads together. Emrys quietly mumbled, “You’re so damn sexy I can’t believe we’re together. I love you Estela.” Estela replies, “Don’t sell yourself short Emrys you’re pretty damn sexy yourself, I love you too.” They both leaned into a passionate kiss so deep and affectionate they didn’t want to separate. They dozed off to sleep shortly after while their fingers were still intertwined. 

The couple arrived in Emrys’ home state of Texas they took an Uber to their hotel and got settled in. Emrys decided to take a steamy shower while Estela joined him. His hands roamed the curves of her body from the back as the hot water cascaded down her bare skin. He instinctively began kissing her neck varying the movements of his lips being as sensual as possible. They lathered one another in soap as they explored their bodies discovering new pleasurable areas to stimulate. Once they rinsed the soap they massaged shampoo into one another’s hair gazing longing into each other’s eyes. As the two dried off Estela groped Emrys’ butt just because she was feeling his cakes were particularly too sweet to pass up. They cuddled in bed naked as they shared intimate feelings with one another. Emrys unloads how stressful school’s been since midterms were approaching, and he apologized for giving Estela less time in his schedule. Estela forgave him and said she understood that his work is important and encourages him to work his ass off to ace his exams. Emrys couldn’t help but kiss her cute face while asking her if she had anything to say. Estela revealed to Emrys that he was her first everything first love, first kiss, and first to make love to her. She told him how uncertain she was at first to pursue him, but began to see that he made her happy. Estela disclosed that she’d always focused her life training because she didn’t want to be perceived as weak. Other girls in her country were kidnapped and trafficked when her country was ruled by a dictator. But the resistance led by her uncle Tio Nicolas was the type of revolution San Trobida needed, and she explained how many people she had to harm to free her country from oppression and tyranny. She avoided killing as often as she could favoring arresting the oppressors instead. But sometimes they wouldn’t surrender and she had to end their life to survive. 

Estela began sobbing into Emrys chest as he held her in welcoming embrace kissing her forehead and comforting her to the best of his ability. The next day the two explored Emrys’ favorite attractions in his hometown. They visited the city’s movie theater and watched Coco crying joyful tears at the ending as they both appreciated the message of the importance of family. They both agreed that family is worth fighting for and shared a kiss to seal their agreement. The couple Ubered to Emrys’ favorite Filipino restaurant sharing his cultural background with her. He shared anecdotes of himself being a silly kid, and how hilariously unfortunate his English was when he first arrived in the United States as a four-year-old little toddler. Estela was laughing profusely as she enjoyed her meal. After lunch Emrys took Estela to a go-kart amusement place where his dad would always take him. Estela and Emrys geared up to race each other in the go-karts. The race began with Emrys in the leading expertly cutting corners to minimize the distance he had to travel. Estela mimicked his movements and caught up rear-ending him to advance to the lead. Emrys regained his composure steadying his approach as he zoomed past Estela to win the race. He gave her a hearty handshake saying how well she did placing in second for her first time. 

The couple headed to Texas Roadhouse to enjoy Southern American cuisine after a tiring race. Estela began sharing her own anecdotes of first arriving to the south and noticed how hospitable everyone was. She had become accustomed to strangers minding their own business and being guarded, but the people in the South were a different story being welcoming and radiant. However, Estela welcomed the change and hoped the future of San Trobidans would be as friendly as southerners in North America. Bowling was the final destination for Emrys to take Estela to because he claimed this place as his safe haven away from home. Estela masterfully launched each ball resulting in a strike every time. Although, Emrys’ bowling skills were mediocre with the hint of an occasional strike Estela cheered him on giving him a kiss every time he got a strike. Estela was the clear victor once the scores were tallied, but the night wasn’t over yet. Emrys had beat his formidable girlfriend in a match of air hockey, and Mario Kart. Estela managed to win a match of the tabletop game Jenga to tie the game. The last challenge was to attain the highest score by punching the Boxing Arcade machine that would measure your punching power. Emrys confident in his victory rolled up his sleeves and rippled his muscles in front of Estela. She giggled enjoying Emrys being a goofball a stark contrast to his usual demeanor. He winds up his punch before striking the bag at full force. His score totaled at 853 and Emrys playfully mocked, “No hard feelings babe, but I got this in the bag.” Estela ignored Emrys’ taunting as the machine reset. Her steely gaze was hyper focused on her target eliminating all distractions. She assumed a stance that utilized all her muscles. Breathing deeply as she closed her eyes preparing to strike. Instantaneously, a fearsome cry escaped Estela’s mouth as her fist struck an earth shattering blow to the fragile bag colliding violently with the receptor. The machine read 999 the maximum score Estela nonchalantly kissed Emrys’ cheek as he witnessed the event unfold in disbelief.  

He grasped her waist as he gave her a huge bear hug cheering on her achievement, “I pronounce Estela Montoya as the new reigning victor of this bowling alley.” Estela laughed with newfound joy basking in her glory as she kissed Emrys over and over again. The next few days until Thanksgiving were spent going to the beach enjoying the sun, and visiting the gym to maintain a healthy body and mind. The fourth Thursday of November marked the day that Emrys was going to introduce Estela to his family. Estela packed her dress to into her carry on bag as well as Emrys’ suit as they headed to Emrys’ childhood home. The couple were greeted by Emrys’ mother and a few other relatives including Emrys’ sister Aurora. Estela warmly greeted everyone as Aurora gave Estela the home tour. Emrys headed to the kitchen with his mother as they prepared a fusion of American and Filipino style dishes. After the tour Estela returned to Emrys’ side asking if she can help. His mother spoke, “No, that’s okay darling it’s your first visit with us you can relax, but if you insist you can help me cook my baby boy’s favorite dish Filipino style spaghetti.” Emrys spoke slightly embarrassed, “Ma, stop embarrassing me.” Estela gives him a kiss on the cheek as she helps prepare the dish. Once the food is set on the table Emrys’ dad took a photo of the display to post on Facebook. Estela and Emrys excuse themselves to his old bedroom to get changed into their formal attire. Emrys prefaced to Estela by saying, “My family says grace before every meal you can excuse yourself at any moment.” Estela held Emrys’ hand firmly as she whispered, “I want to stand beside you because I realized you feel uncomfortable and resent the act of worshipping a God that doesn’t accept you. I want to be here to support you, Ok.” Emrys nodded as he clutched her hand tightly. 

His mother leads the saying of grace as his relatives in unison say, “Amen.” The family begin taking their seats as they happily feast on the delicious food. Emrys mother comments, “Estela you look so beautiful in that dress I’m so happy my Emrys found someone like you.” Emrys understood the underlying meaning of what his mother said, but would rather continue to eat dinner without spoiling the mood. Estela began sharing anecdotes about her home with his family, and they genuinely enjoyed her company. The evening waned and his relatives were full Emrys’ mom suggested they engage in light-hearted karaoke. Everyone applauded each other once they finished a song. Emrys and Estela sang a duet of the song L-O-V-E by Frank Sinatra which was given a resounding applause by the audience. The night was filled with laughs and genuinely good times. When it was time to say goodbye the couple hugged every guest before parting ways. The moment before Emrys left to go into the Uber his mother pulled him aside, “Can, I have a word with you before you go?” Emrys glances at Estela who nods yes as she settles into the car. Emrys’ mother begins speaking, “Oh my baby boy is growing up so fast I don’t even know where the time went.” Emrys allowed himself to be vulnerable and smiled weakly at his mother appreciating the sentiment. “All I wanted to say is I accept anyone you bring home. I noticed you kept your distance from me and I realized I made you feel ashamed in the past for being who you are, and I’m sorry.” Emrys felt a sigh of relief the moment his mother apologized to him he hugged her tightly and said “I love you,” she replied “I love you too, Emrys.” 

The couple jet set that night to fly to Estela’s home town of San Trobida. Estela can’t maintain her excitement and proudly announced,“Oh my goodness Emrys I can’t wait for you to meet mi familia.” Emrys was pleasantly surprised at Estela as she spoke Spanish noting that she was so cute whenever she did it. Estela’s uncle Tio Nicolas awaited Estela’s arrival as she ran into his arms being the most radiant Emrys’ had ever witnessed. Tio Nicolas introduced himself with a hug, “You must be Emrys my Estelita’s first boyfriend.” Emrys nodded, “Yes, sir I am.” Tio Nicolas shook his head and waved his hands no, “No, mijo call me Tio or Nicolas none of that sir stuff, Okay?” Emrys agreed, “Alright Tio.” Tio Nicolas wrapped his arm around Emrys talking to Estela, “I like him already Estelita.” Tio Nicolas begins driving the couple to Estela’s home in San Trobida. Estela kisses her Tio goodbye as she leads Emrys into her home. Emrys is in love with Estela’s home because he sees a new side of her he’s never seen before. Family portraits hang proudly on the walls and more photos rest about on shelves. Her South American influence is highlighted by the beautiful architecture and interior design. Estela leads Emrys to her bedroom where she immediately shuts the door behind them as she pounces on Emrys. He topples safely on the bed as she undresses herself and Emrys quickly. His erection firm she slips condom on him as they love adoringly through the night. Pleasurable sounds escape their mouths as they rock the bed to a romantic rhythm proclaiming their love all throughout the night. 

The next morning Estela leads them both to her favorite hiking spot joined by her Tio Nicolas. They admire the surrounding nature of the hiking trail as Estela and Tio Nicolas jointly tell Emrys the history behind their home, and why they were passionate enough to start a revolution. Every new recruit went on this hike to symbolize that their dream was an uphill battle. We have to appreciate the journey that comes with it, celebrate the small victories, and continue to preserve even when it’s hard. Once Emrys reached the top he collapsed tired as hell, but Estela picked him up and hugged him dearly. The couple took a selfie to commemorate the moment. Even though Estela looks stunning in the photo and Emrys looks like a hot mess dripping in sweat from head to toe. Tio Nicolas brought Emrys to his home to enjoy his homemade breakfast. The couple shared their experiences together through stories with Tio Nicolas such as attending Raj’s Halloween Bash, touring Emrys’ hometown, and lastly how they met. “Ah mi Estelita continues to be the hero her mother knew her to be,” Tio Nicolas said barely able to hold back his tears. Estela hugs her Tio before they head to the beach. The sun blazes perfectly upon the shore of San Trobida as the warm sand and chilling water invites the couple to play. Tio Nicolas sets up the umbrella and blankets as Emrys lathers Estela head to toe in sunscreen ensuring her entire body is fully protected from UV rays. She gives him the same courtesy as Estela greets her old friends playing volleyball to let them join. Estela gracefully glides across the sand showcasing her natural athletic ability as she come out victorious. They refresh themselves in the water as they hold one another in a loving embrace. Swimming and splashing to be free and let loose. Once they dried up from the water they have a nice picnic lunch on the blankets laid over the sand. Tio Nicolas tells them stories about girls back in the day he would invite here to impress them with a beach day picnic. 

The evening came as the sun began to set, so Tio Nicolas drove the couple back home where he decided to stay a for a while to get to know Emrys. Tio asked Emrys frankly, “When will you move to San Trobida to live with my Estelita? Second, what’s the job your studying for in school? And lastly do you plan to have children?” Emrys was stunned to silence by the loaded questions and said, “Is Estela moving back to San Trobida?” He looks directly at Estela who now has her gaze cast downward avoiding Emrys’ eyes. Emrys questioned hurriedly, “When were you going to tell me you were moving back? Estela I can’t believe you kept this from me. How could—,” Estela abruptly retaliated, “How could I? HOW COULD YOU!?! You nearly had sex with Diego and you didn’t tell me! I had to hear him admit it after the party because he felt he needed to confess. He told me that you still loved me and that it was his fault for seducing you. So I needed to wait until I knew you truly cared about me to tell you I was moving OKAY!!” Emrys in shock says, “I’m sorry Estela I can’t just leave Hartfeld and abandon my entire career just to be with you. You said it yourself that there is a lack of support for mental health care here in San Trobida.” Emrys begins to tear up his voice trembling as he says, “I think we should break up.” Estela hysterically runs into Emrys’ arms begging, “NO, please please Emrys I can’t lose you I love you so much. We can try to work this out -we we…” Emrys holds Estela close, “I want what’s best for you Estela and I can’t be the man you want. I hope our experience together has taught you to open your heart and take a chance. Because you’re we’re the light of my life. You deserve more happiness then you’d allow yourself to have. I love you and I’ll miss you Estela Montoya.” Estela embraces Emrys allowing herself to be the most vulnerable she’s ever been,“I love you Emrys Pomeroy.” They stand in silence hugging each other honestly as their embrace shifts to a waltz. They waltz around the room smiling through the pain that freshly aches within their hearts. 

The moment they stop they share one last deep kiss as Emrys heads to the room as Estela audibly cries to her Tio all night long. The morning of departure Emrys told Jake he and Estela had broken up, so Jake would know what to expect. Estela began to gather her suitcases and headed to her Tio’s car. Emrys called a taxi to transport him to the airport. He allowed Estela to have a ten minute head start to board the plane and find a seat. When Emrys arrived he noticed Jake waiting for him. Emrys handed Jake his luggage as he boarded the plane Estela had chosen the first seat so she could slip past without talking to Emrys. He chose the furthest seat away from her to give Estela a comfortable distance. Emrys sank into his seat and began to weep softly as he reminisced how close he was to Estela, and how heartbreaking it was to see how distant they’ve become.

Exactly twenty-four hours after Diego’s debacle aired on live television and posted all across social media Diego has been under intense scrutiny from the public. Cyber bullies began bombarding his social media with awful comments on his posts, direct messaging him to commit suicide, and attracting more people to harass him by tagging his accounts. Diego was also being verbally abused on campus by being called, “a fame hound,” for socializing with celebrities without having the same status. Emrys was appalled by the behavior of his fellow peers, and immediately took action by defending his friend online and offline. Emrys posted on every social media platform that the mob mentality to personally attack and actively harass his friend was completely unacceptable, and threatened that if it continued the aggressors would be reported to authorities. Additionally, he stated users who were documented spewing hate would be blocked personally by Raj, Chris, and any other celebrities who support ending cyber bullying. Emrys even added an extra measure if it doesn’t stop these celebrities will private their social media to everyone limiting access to exclusively friends. 

Once Emrys posted this the number of accounts harassing Diego significantly dropped in a short span of time. Diego was so grateful to Emrys he embraced him so vigorously before tearing up saying, “Thank you So Much Emrys! I didn’t know how much more of it I could take. You truly are the BEST friend in the entire world.” Emrys smiled reassuringly at Diego while he returned the embrace with warmth and affection. A knock sounded behind the door and Emrys went to investigate. Emrys opened the door to Raj who was accompanied by Chris and a black man in an Armani suit. Emrys welcomed the group and Raj introduced the mysterious man, “Emrys this is Ethan, Ethan this is Emrys.” The suave man gives Emrys a firm handshake and reveals why Raj brought him to Emrys, “ I’m here to manage and repair public relations with one of my client’s friends named Diego.” 

Emrys called Diego to the dining table as the men presented their plan to him. Diego questioned, “How exactly are we going to fix my mistake it doesn’t feel possible,” Ethan refuted, “ It’s entirely possible I’ve handled scandals much more notorious than this. Basically my plan is not to eradicate the event from social media because that’s what is nearly impossible. However, we can control the story surrounding the event by showing your best self image to public. I’ve arranged for you to have an interview with Harrison Byrd. I advise you to manipulate the truth to give yourself the best angle...,” Diego interrupted, “First of all I’m gonna by on Harrison’s SHOW Oh MY GoD! Second of all you want me to lie.” Ethan explained in further detail to Diego how to elaborate the truth. He presented the idea that Diego should attempt to play up the humble star stuck fan who was too excited to properly contain themselves. Ethan said that the relatability of the statement would resonate with the audience, which will draw the sympathy of viewers at home. This would effectively draw attention away from the confrontation itself, and would improve public opinion because it shows a nervous underdog rather than a pompous fame hound. Diego exclaimed, “Wow that could actually work when’s the interview,” Ethan replied, “Tomorrow night! You should pack your things before we take Chris’ private jet to Los Angeles, I’d advise to bring Emrys along I noticed how much he’s defended you in this situation. America loves witnessing friends who are a united front willing to do anything for each other.” 

Raj and his company say their goodbyes to Emrys as he closes the door. Diego squeals excitedly as the trio were out of range and shouts, “ We’re going to Hollywood Emrys!” He wraps Emrys in an excited hug and begins listing everything he’s going to do, “First we’re going to be flying in a private jet isn’t that insane! Second we’re going to be lounging it up in a bougie ass hotel. Possibly meeting other celebrities! Be on The HARRISON BYRD show! Like this is a dream come true. Pinch me Emrys I hope I’m not dreaming.” Emrys gave Diego quite a pinch that Diego’s face contorted wincing at the sharp pain. “OW! I said pinch me. Not Assault Me,” Emrys snickered playfully, “ You told me to pinch you.” The duo began packing suitcases for their early flight to Los Angeles. Emrys and Diego arrived at the airport designed to manage private planes, which they were promptly escorted to Chris’ private jet. 

Once they stepped off and gathered their luggage the duo was greeted by two handsome young pilots one Emrys immediately recognized. “Jake is that really you?”, Emrys’ lips began quivering as tears of joy formed in his eyes. Similar emotions erupted within Jake as he steps towards Emrys caressing his face, “Emrys...Oh my GOD EMRYS!” Jake grasps Emrys’ hips firmly as he effortlessly lifts him into the air smiling gleefully as he spins him around savoring their reunion. The second pilot comments slyly, “I’m guessing you two know each other?” Jake sets Emrys down as he regains his composure addressing the man’s question, “ Mike this is Emrys my first boyfriend in high school. Emrys this is Mike a brother I came to know in the Navy.” Emrys shook Mike’s hand and greeted him with a smile, “Nice to meet you, Mike,” Mike responded, “Likewise,” as he lingered his grasp on Emrys’ hand gazing into his eyes. Emrys could sense Mike was intently observing him, which shifted the atmosphere between them from welcoming to slightly uncomfortable. Emrys returned his attention to Jake as he spoke affectionately, “You’re alive I was so worried you’d never come home.” Sadness flickered in Jake’s eyes as he tried to conceal how much Emrys’ words affected him. Diego introduced himself to Jake, “Hello, I’m Diego Emrys’ college roommate, I’ve heard so much about you. I’m hoping we can all connect during this trip.” Jake and Emrys share approving glances as Jake leads the duo into the cabin of the jet. 

The interior is a sleek design with accommodating features and seating. Chris sits patiently in his seat enjoying an ice cold drink across from Raj and Ethan who are watching movies. Diego settles in as Ethan begins to debrief him on the strategy Ethan believes will be the most effective in redeeming Diego’s public image. Emrys rested comfortably in a seat away from the busy men attempting to nap through the entirety of plane ride. The plane had begun takeoff and Emrys could hear Jake’s voice over the intercom informing the passengers about their departure. Once the plane reached a steady altitude Emrys’ mind was drifting to sleep when he heard footsteps heading toward him. 

Emrys opened his eyes astonished to see Jake sitting in the seat in front directly facing him. Jake spoke suddenly, “ You still look like an angel when you sleep. I’d always be up before you, and I’d wait for you to wake up admiring how peaceful you slept.” Emrys instantly averted his eyes away from Jake’s as warmth intensified in Emrys’ cheeks blushing profusely. “Why are you here shouldn’t you be flying this jet,” Emrys curiously asked. “Mike has got this under control, and if he needs my help he can simply call me through the intercom,” Jake confidently states pointing to the speakers. Jake offers Emrys some signature airline gourmet cookies, cup of water, and a warm blanket. Emrys appreciated the gesture as reminisces how caring and generous Jake had always been when they were together. Emrys accepted the commodities and warmly asked, “So how’s life been since you retired from the Navy.” Jake ponders for a moment then says, “Well, I’d say life’s been comfortable and routine since I left the military. I have my dream job as a pilot, and I provide for my mother as much as I can. I go to the bar weekly with Mike drinking whiskey as we watch the game on television that day. Honestly, I’ve been quite lonely in the past few years. I’m grateful for Mike, but he has his own life and I want him to enjoy himself without feeling an obligation to spend time with me you know. So how’s life been for you Ems?” Emrys can’t help but sympathize with Jake placing a reaffirming hand on his shoulder before describing college life, “Well Hartfeld has been everything I dreamed it would be. I’m excelling at my all classes because of the support of my fellow peers. I’ve gotten to make long lasting friendships with people like Diego and Raj. I’ve also met such a special girl who lives near the campus her name is Estela.” 

Emrys shows Jake a selfie they took together on his phone. Jake’s face subtly tinged with disappointment, but forced a smile to avoid Emrys detecting his jealousy. Jake promptly asks, “How serious are the two of you?” Emrys answers oblivious to Jake’s feelings, “We’ve been together for a month now ,and I’m excited to introduce her to my parents this upcoming break.” Jake’s gazes downwards as he spoke bluntly, “I’m thinking she’ll be just right for you assuming you’re parents haven’t changed since I met them.” Emrys could sense and feel the hurt that Jake projected in his words trying to comfort him, “I’m sure they loved you regardless of how they felt about us being together. Because I know I loved you deeply and as long as I was happy they were happy.” Jake suddenly stood up and said abruptly, “It was nice reconnecting with you, but I should return to my post.” Jake strides toward the cockpit leaving Emrys to contemplate his feelings about Jake returning to his life. The group arrive in Los Angeles as they are escorted to their hotel in a limo. Jake ubered in a separate car with Mike to keep his relationship with Chris as a professional one. 

Emrys and Diego arrive at the hotel and are mesmerized by the ornate and luxurious design. Diego spoke excitedly, “See this is the life!” They both shared a chuckle as they received their key card from the front desk for their respective rooms. Emrys entered the room amazed by its lavish layout. Emrys took a steamy shower dried up then he flopped into his bed dozing off to sleep. A few hours later Emrys was awoken by knocking at the door he opened it to discover Jake standing in the hallway expectantly. “Hello, Jake what are you doing here,” Emrys asked. “I was wondering if you wanted to hang out as we watch your friend Diego on the Harrison Byrd show together.” Emrys stands there for a moment before inviting Jake into his suite. They both relax on the bed as Emrys turns the TV on. 

The screen displays the intro to Harrison’s show as they welcome Diego to begin the interview. Harrison began asking questions that were quite intimidating to Emrys, but was pleasantly surprised how well Diego articulated his answers to craft the favorable story Ethan devised. Diego evoked an emotional response from the audience as he mentions how supportive Emrys has been, and how great he was. Harrison pulled up a selfie on his screen of the best friends together the night of the incident and commented on the costumes noting that the duo was dressed as a couple. Diego gave a heartfelt response saying no matter the kind of relationship he shares with Emrys he loves him unconditionally, and wishes to be at his side forever. A majority of the live studio audience were emotional affected being brought to tears including Emrys. 

Emrys was so proud of his best friend for showing his fortitude on live television from the recent hate Diego has received in the last few days. Jake noticed Emrys’ emotion as he wiped the tears from his eyes. Emrys turned toward Jake as his earnest eyes were flushed in tears as he spoke, “Jake I’m sorry how poorly my parents treated you when I first introduced us being together. I wish things had turned out differently.” Jake embraced Emrys protectively as Emrys began sobbing into his chest. Jake comfortingly said, “Shhh… Shhh it’s okay I have long forgiven them for their actions . Don’t worry you’re okay… you’re okay.” Jake snuggled Emrys as he retreated from the hug saying, “I’m also flying to San Trobida to meet her parents as well can you believe it.” Jake surprised by the news began describing how beautiful the country was, and how he had visited the country numerous times due to the majority of his clientele booked a triple there often. Jake then said “Hey, I can offer to fly the both of you to Texas and San Trobida and back home if you’d like.” Emrys was greatly surprised by Jake’s generous offer and said, “Yes that be great,” as he wrapped Jake in a appreciative hug. Jake lingered in Emrys embrace and was happy to support Emrys relationship because he was more concerned about Emrys’ happiness rather than his own. The events leading up to this point was the aftermath of that fateful day Jake left for the Navy leaving the love of his life behind to create a new life without him.