#youcanthelpme

"TJ! NO!" He'd seen the flash of a gun moments before he heard it go off. It was his duty to protect TJ, it was his duty to keep him safe. Instead, it was his client, it was his friend, it was someone who'd stolen his heart that was protecting him. Dropping to his knees he put pressure on the wound, he felt the blood ooze around his hands and knew that he needed help. Over and over again he whispered that he needed to stay with him, that help was on the way and that he'd be okay. Steve knew that he called out for someone to call for help, that he thought he heard sirens but he didn't know. He wouldn't know until they actually arrived. All he could think about was TJ and how he needed him to stay alive and not die. "Please don't leave me, Teej. Just hang on, okay?"

              ❝I, uh…❞ What does he say in response to all of this? ❝I had a good time, but I really should be leaving.❞

                TJ’s comment earns a little chuckle from the blond, his gaze never retreating fully from TJ. ❝You know I would if I could.❞ Especially now. If only Sean could just call in sick to work and call it good. A hand remains resting over TJ, holding him close to his body. ❝But I don’t have to be up and out of bed for another thirty minutes.❞ He’ll let TJ take that statement however he pleases as he leans over, pressing a kiss to his lips.

              ❝They should’ve been there for you. They should’ve supported you. They’re your family.❞ With the grand opening of the Dome. Everything. ❝But so should have I.❞ Things have changed since the opening of the Dome. However, it still doesn’t change the fact that Sean broke his promise and did not come in attendance to the big event. This is one of the many things they’ve failed to discuss. Merely putting off the inevitable. ❝And I’m sorry I wasn’t there when you needed me to be.❞ A regret the congressman will carry with him to his grave.

               Mike should’ve seen it coming. Sitting in TJ’s apartment while listening to the music playing over the speakers of TJ’s phone until a certain song starts. It’s hard to say if the host said anything before he feels himself being pulled up onto his feet. Even if he didn’t, he doesn’t need to say anything for Mike to know exactly what the Hammond son is referring to. Earning a soft laugh from the agent as he follows him into the living room. ❝I have to warn you, I have two left feet.❞ It has just been a long while since he’s danced with anyone.

“Are you trying to tell me not to get dressed?”

“Y-Yeah, sorry.” His cheeks went red and he bit his lip, before just burying his face into the other’s chest. “God I swear I’m not a cryer. I’ve never cried during sex before.”

               Words ultimately leave Gareth speechless as he stares back at TJ until he shakes his head. ❝No. I’m not going to let you hurt yourself.❞ Because that’s precisely what would happen. Maybe TJ thinks he’s expendable, but Gareth likes to believe that’s far from the truth. Even when their families stand on completely different sides of the political spectrum. That’s no reason for TJ to put himself in harm’s way or worse.