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Chris’ apartment had a steady flow of people who moved in and moved out. He rarely paid it much mind, if they weren’t right next to him or a door or so down it wasn’t his concern. He was oblivious to the flow of people through the building, more than once he’d found out someone had moved into an apartment weeks after they’d gotten there. But this time Chris was getting a new next door neighbor, so it was more at the forefront of his mind this time around. He noticed the boxes being brought up in front of the door with some annoyance before realizing someone was directing people around on where to have their stuff put. Chis didn’t pay it too much attention, just took note of a new person and went back to enjoying his day off. It wasn’t really his concern or business, he could say hello another day when his neighbor wasn’t trying to unload all of his stuff. Chris spent his afternoon like he normally did, eating dinner and sitting around watching TV that would rot his brain. When light wasn’t coming in through the windows anymore he brushed his teeth, changed into something more comfortable, and went to bed. Chris closed his eyes and was out like a light. He had to have been asleep for only a handful of hours when there was a knock at Chris’ door. He got out of bed groggily, pushing off his covers and tripping as he stood. He kicked the blankets off his legs with muted annoyance and walked to his front door, another knock a little more urgent this time trying to egg him on. Chris frowned. He turned on a lamp so he didn’t trip in his own living room, shuffling to the door. He looked out the peep hole first, someone he didn’t really recognize with how tired he was standing on the other side. They were looking off to the side, shadows cast over their face with how the light outside Chris’ door shined down. Chris opened his door, carefully on guard. “Can I help you?” Chris asked, catching the person’s attention through the crack in his door. They turned to him, looking a little frazzled. Chris chocked it up to it being so late, them being tired just like Chris was. “Sorry to bother you,” They started, and Chris caught onto their bitter scent, not sure if that was normal for them or if something was wrong, “And I really hate to ask, but could I come it?” The man’s eyes flit to peek behind Chris into his dark apartment for as much as the barely opened door would allow. Chris tried to hold back a frown. “Why—” “I’m really sorry,” The man cut him off, “But it’s kinda urgent.” He pleaded, wringing his hands together. He was in pajamas, a black shirt and some plaid pants. He was barefoot too, which Chris found odd but made him less suspicious. It had to be freezing, the cold concrete outside on his feet. But he didn’t seem like a threat and Chris was starting to think that the bitterness in the man’s scent was some sort of distress, not his natural scent. Chris stepped back, opening his door a little wider. The man perked up, looking at Chris expectantly before moving inside. “You can come in.” Chris said, and that was what the man had been waiting for, stepping inside with a quiet “thanks.” He padded inside Chris’ apartment unsurely, but got through the door with an urgency that startled Chris. He looked around like he was searching for something, or maybe just cataloguing everything in the room. Chris did that too, always looking for exits or entrances in case something happened and he needed to make a quick escape. “So…” Chris prompted as silence stretched over his apartment, closing the door and locking it. The living room was still dark, Chris couldn’t believe how brave this man was to step into his home. Chris didn’t look unfriendly, but he definitely didn’t seem like the nicest guy especially with how mussed up from sleep he was. “I’m Leon.” The man greeted, seeming to understand that Chris wanted some sort of explanation. He held out his hand, waiting until Chris reached out to shake it. With his hands no longer clasped in front of him Chris saw the silhouette of his stomach, noticing the bump there. Chris didn’t want to make any assumptions, but a pregnant stomach was a pregnant stomach. The least he could do was not stare like a weirdo. He pulled his attention back to the man in his home, looking at his face, “Chris Redfield.” Chris responded, pleasantly surprised by Leon’s firm handshake. “This wasn’t the first impression I wanted to make,” Leon said with a nervous laugh, pulling his hand away from Chris to cross his arms over his chest almost protectively. Chris caught the slight shake in his frame now, hadn’t seen it before because Leon was holding his hands and arms so close to himself to hide it. “I just moved in, I was hoping to come around and introduce myself in the morning.” He went on. Chris nodded. “Things happen,” He said, trying to ease what he now saw as clear anxiety in the man, startled over something, “What brought you to my door?” Chris asked. Leon made a face, “Just a little incident is all,” He waved off as if he hadn’t hurried into Chris’ apartment like he was trying to escape something, “Speaking of, could I borrow a phone?” He asked. Chris was committed to this now it seemed. For just a selfish second he was hoping that maybe he could talk his new neighbor into going back to his own apartment so he could sleep, or maybe just letting him take Chris’ couch. But now Chris was a little worried. If his neighbor felt like he had to call someone—maybe the cops?—then it could be serious. “Sure, I’ll grab it.” Chris said. Leon waited patiently in the kitchen while Chris turned to find a phone he could use. Chris ended up just grabbing his own cell phone in his bedroom, coming back to hand it over to Leon. “Thanks.” Leon said, taking it from Chris. He was quick to press some buttons and turn away from Chris, phone to his ear. He held one arm around himself, Chris barely able to hear the ring of the phone. He really didn’t expect anyone to pick up this late. And then he was surprised when a voice perked up on the other end in little sounds Chris couldn’t make out. “Hey Hunnigan,” Leon said, trying to be quiet, like he was uncomfortable knowing he could be overheard. The little voice spoke fast over the phone, Leon shifting where he stood as he listened. He brought his feet close together like he was trying to keep them warm. “Yeah, he’s back… no I didn’t, I only just moved in.” Another pause, Leon fidgeting with his nails. Chris stood awkwardly behind him, wondering if he should pretend like he wasn’t paying attention. “Tearing it apart, I assume. He busted the lock on the window by the fire escape so I left pretty fast after I heard that. My neighbor let me hide away in their place for a little bit.” Chris’ concern was peaked. Busted the lock? That’s the closest to an explanation Chris had gotten so far and he hoped he was having a misunderstanding and someone hadn’t broken into Leon’s apartment. “I don’t know. Could you just send someone down please,” Leon sighed, then quieter, “I really don’t know what to do at this point.” There was silence from Chris’ neighbor as the other person spoke. “Yeah I know… I don’t want it to come to that though. It’s kind of—nevermind. Now’s not the time or place. Thanks Hunnigan. I’ll contact you again later.” Leon pulled Chris’ phone away, hanging up. He held the phone for a second and Chris gave him the time he seemed to need to process something. Then Leon turned around, handing Chris his phone back. “Thanks.” He said with a weary smile, looking worn out. He had dark circles under his eyes that matched Chris’, maybe for different reasons. “Everything okay?” Chris asked, taking the phone from Leon and sliding it into his pocket. The man gave Chris another smile. He was just a few inches shorter than Chris and it made him seem impossibly smaller with the way he was curled in on himself. “Sort of. Do you mind if I stay here, at least for a few hours? I won’t bother you, I know this is kind of weird.” He asked, sounding unsure as if Chris could possibly turn him away now that he knew something bigger was at play. “Of course,” Chris said, trying to make his tone less rough, trying to be more welcoming, “You okay with being on the couch?” Chris asked. Leon made a face, but nodded. Chris remembered the man’s stomach and almost offered his own bed instead, but he barely knew him and didn’t want to change his offer now. “That would be great.” Leon said. “I’ll get you some blankets and a pillow, wait here.” Chris said, stepping away to put his phone up and grab some of the spare bed materials he let Claire use when she visited. He dragged everything back, Leon still standing unsurely in the middle of the living room. He was looking around, eyes hooked on some of the framed pictures Chris had on the walls. Chris draped everything he’d grabbed over the couch, turning back to Leon when he was down. “This should be fine.” He said. Leon nodded appreciatively, looking over the offered blankets and pillow. He looked very nervous now, spacing out hard where he was looking the makeshift bed. “Y’know,” Chris said, catching Leon’s attention, “I used to be in the Air Force, and I do some similar work now. So if you’re in trouble, you really found the right person.” He tried to say it with some humor while still reassuring him. Leon smiled. “That’s good to know,” Leon said, “I used to be in the force, not for long though.” “Air force?” Chris asked, watching Leon slowly gravitate towards the couch. “Police.” He responded a little bitterly, and Chris decided to not dig into that clearly sore subject too hard. “You’re pretty capable yourself then, huh?” Chris asked instead, watching as Leon finally sat down on the couch, running a hand over one of the blankets as subtly as he could. “I’d like to think so,” Leon smiled, “I’m a little down for the count right now though. Granted the—y’know.” He gestured vaguely to his stomach, confirming Chris’ earlier guess. Chris caught that Leon’s scent was calming down, catching something other than bitterness in it as he got more comfortable around Chris. From what he could tell, Leon’s scent was citrussy, some sort of green scent on there too. It was nice. Chris hoped his own scent was pleasant to Leon too. “Is it okay if I go ahead and lay down? I’m kinda worn out.” Leon asked, very obviously asking Chris to leave him be. “Of course. If you need anything I’ll be in that room.” Chris pointed out his room and Leon looked in the direction, nodding. “Thanks, really. I’ll pay you back later somehow.” Leon said. With that he started shifting around blankets that smelt a little like Claire, getting comfortable and warm. Chris stepped into his own room, peeking out his door for just a second to make sure Leon was okay before curling up into his own bed. He really shouldn’t fall asleep with a stranger in his home, but he was at least assured that Leon probably wouldn’t try to attack Chris in his sleep. Leon looked exhausted, it was hard to fake that, and would probably try to sleep ASAP. Chris checked through his phone, taking note of the number under his recent tab of phone calls before setting his phone aside and closing his eyes. A knock on his front door woke him up yet again and Chris blinked awake. He scowled as there was another, more demanding knock, pulling himself out of his blankets. He stomped out of his bedroom before being absolutely hit by pure panic in the scent of his guest, absolutely stopping him in his tracks. Leon was awake, sitting up and staring at the door with nothing short of terror. Chris jolted himself out of his haze, walking over to the door as someone pounded on it again. “Don’t open that,” Leon said quickly, “Don’t. Someone is supposed to get him out of here soon. He’ll go away.” He said, sounding unsure. Chris frowned at how fast he was talking, at how strong his scent was. “Alright, why shouldn’t I open it?” Chris asked, trying to understand even if his wording made it sound like he was challenging Leon. Leon looked at him, knuckles white with his grip on the blankets. “Just—Just—Please, Chris, please don’t. At least not with me sitting right here, at least let me hide.” Leon pleaded, breath getting fast. He pulled himself off the couch, looking unsteady on his own feet. Another knock on his door, the person on the other side being insistent. “Okay, Leon, how about I open the door to see what they want. You can hide in my room, it should cover your scent and everything. I’ll tell them that you aren’t here, okay?” Chris tried. He really didn’t think whoever was knocking so boldly on his door this late at night was going to leave without at least seeing someone, even if Leon really wanted it to be that easy. Leon looked at Chris, eyes a little wild, glancing back at the door from over the couch. “Okay.” Leon said, Chris coaxing him over to the bedroom with a few careful directions. Leon stood awkwardly in the doorway of Chris room, peeking out, looking like he felt absurdly out of place. “I’ll go open the door, tell them you aren’t here, and it’s all gonna be okay, alright Leon?” Chris said, some professionalism keeping his head on straight through the exhaustion. Right now, his brain was reasoning out that Leon was someone he needed to protect, so keeping him calm and safe was a priority. Leon nodded, wringing his hands together where he stood. Chris gave Leon a quick reassuring smile before cracking the bedroom door, making sure Leon couldn’t be seen but not making it too obvious that he was trying to hide someone. Chris walked to his front door, messing up his hair like he had just woken up. Chris opened the door right as the person was about to knock again, hand still raised in the air. A blond man looked back at Chris, a nasty scowl on his face. “Can I help you?” Chris croaked out, trying to really elevate the why the hell did you just wake me up? performance. The man peeked over Chris’ shoulder unsubtly, looking into Chris’ apartment, scenting the air. Chris scowled back at the man, leaning into his line of sight. “Hello?” Chris said, sounding annoyed. “Sorry,” the man said in a rough voice, “I’m looking for my boyfriend. He gets a little confused sometimes and I have to wrangle him back home, so I was wondering if you’ve seen him.” The man asked. For a second Chris wondered if maybe he was wrong to believe Leon, and he really was some confused boyfriend who just happened to wander off in the night. But he’d be damned if he gave Leon up now after promising to tell this guy that he wasn’t here. “Uhh, it’s kinda late dude. I’ve been sleeping, not people watching.” Chris said, scratching the back of his head with a yawn. “I just need a yes or no.” The man snarled, frowning at Chris. “No.” Chris said back. The man stared at Chris for a few seconds longer, glaring. “Whatever,” He huffed out, frustrated, “Thanks.” The man said, like Chris was someone who owed him politeness, already walking away in the direction of Leon’s apartment. Chris shut his door, locking it. He walked back to his bedroom, slowly cracking the door open. “He’s gone.” Chris said, trying to look into the dark room to find Leon. The man in question stepped out of the bathroom attached to Chris’ bedroom, looking pale. “Really?” Leon asked, hands gripping the doorframe hard as he peered through. “Sure is, all gone. You’re safe to come out now.” Chris said gently, noticing the spacy way Leon was on guard. It was familiar enough to Chris that he caught it, knew well enough how to deal with the way Leon looked unsure and not all there. Be patient, be guiding, and be careful. Leon stepped out of the bathroom like a frightened animal, holding himself again to disguise the tremor in his body. Chris really wanted to ask what that was about, what just happened, maybe even see if Leon was some confused boyfriend by asking him some questions. But he looked worn out, absolutely exhausted to the bone especially now. Chris could ask in the morning. “Let’s get you back on the couch, sound good?” Chris asked. Leon gave a stilted nod, walking jerkily like he was trying to act normal around Chris and not show how upset he was. Chris saw right through it and wisely chose not to comment. “Someone might—umm—” Leon stammered like he couldn’t figure out what to say, halfway through the living room, “Someone… I don’t—” Leon frowned hard. He took a second to shake out his hands, shifting on his feet. “Sorry, I’m kind of frazzled right now,” Leon gave an awkward laugh, finally making his way back to the couch, Chris following at a safe distance. “Someone might try to call me through your phone. Just ignore it for now, I don’t want to cause you anymore trouble.” He said tiredly, sitting down on the couch and pulling the blankets up on himself. “You sure? It really isn’t that much of an issue if you need me to keep an eye out for a call.” Chris said, watching Leon get himself comfortable. Chris was a little transfixed on his pregnant stomach, just adding onto the questions he already had about the strange man and how he apparently chased Leon out of his new apartment. “Yeah, just ignore it,” Leon said with a sigh as he finally situated himself. The dark circles under his eyes and paleness of his face was saying a lot. Chris looked him over, a little concerned. “Thanks again,” Leon said, “I really appreciate this.” A bit quieter. Chris gave him a smile, “Of course. Sleep well, I’ll see you in the morning.” Chris waved, heading back into his own room to give Leon some space. Leon hummed back, closing his eyes. Chris tucked himself back in his own bed, really praying for no more interruptions for the rest of the night. He had work in the morning and really needed some sleep. Although he might need to call out to make sure Leon was alright. Maybe Leon would let Chris do a check through his apartment to make sure it was okay. Chris got into bed, closing his eyes. He was exhausted. Work tomorrow was going to be a bitch.
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Chris woke up to the sound of his door closing and was immediately up and alert. He threw off his covers and walked as quietly as he could to see—his living room cleaned up, blankets folded, and no Leon. Chris frowned, tension falling off of him as he stepped into the vacant room. He walked over to all the folded blankets, his tidied couch. A small note was on the blankets, written on a napkin that Leon must have found in the kitchen. Chris picked it up, reading off the short note written in sharp handwriting. Just a little thank you, written fast and a little haphazardly. Chris put the note down on his coffee table before grabbing the blankets to throw them in the wash, just in case another neighbor decides to pay him a visit tonight. Might as well keep them nice and clean. Chris meandered around his apartment, after getting everything in his washer. He was up so early, but not early enough to justify going back to bed. He had plenty of time so he took it to have breakfast, shave, anything he needed to do that he normally didn’t have time for. In truth he wanted to check on Leon. Make sure he was okay, safe in an apartment with a broken window lock. Chris wanted to assure that the man was gone and Leon wasn’t going to get harassed or bothered by him. So Chris, some nervous energy zipping through him, grabbed a coat and shrugged on something a little more presentable to go give his neighbor a visit. He stepped out of his apartment and walked the short distance over to Leon’s, knocking on the door and then stepping back to wait patiently. It was still so early, he felt bad to be pestering him this early but Leon had to be awake still, right? Chris waited, knocked again after a few moments. He checked his watch when the only response he was getting was silence and the chill of their outside balcony. He’d be late to work if he stayed any longer. Admitting defeat and feeling a little concerned for his neighbor, Chris went back into his own apartment to get ahold of his keys and wallet and everything else he needed. He was distracted the entire time at work, replaying the events of the night before. Leon had just moved in and was already being… harassed? Stalked? By some man he clearly was weary of. While he was clearly pregnant? It at least seemed like Leon had called someone to help him, the number still listed under recents in Chris’ phone. Chris went through his day and came home with his neighbor still on his mind. He tried knocking on Leon’s door one more time to no avail and assumed that Leon was at work himself. Leon wasn’t even his concern and didn’t need another alpha looming over him. Despite that, Chris was still more than pleased when he saw Leon here and there, waved to him, stopped for small talk outside their doors. Leon seemed like he didn’t want to address the other night aside from clearly being appreciative towards Chris, so Chris didn’t ask. Was he curious? A little worried about his neighbors safety? Of course. But it wasn’t his business and he wasn’t going to upset Leon. Chris tried to invite Leon for a coffee at some point but Leon turned him down. And then Chris remembered that pregnant people aren’t supposed to have coffee and awkwardly apologized next time he saw him. But aside from a few fleeting moments like those, Chris didn’t see Leon much. And Leon seemed okay, didn’t seem like he was having anymore issues. So that was enough for him. Chris noticed that no one else went into the apartment but Leon, and it made Chris curious again about how he was clearly pregnant. Again, it wasn’t his business, and it felt like too much time had passed since their stressful night, so Chris didn’t bother Leon with asking him any of his many questions about what happened. What his connection to that man was, since Chris was making a pretty obvious connection and wanted to know if his suspicion was right. Chris woke up, went to work, came home, and sometimes saw Leon and exchanged small talk. And that was it, back to a schedule with a new addition to it to brighten the end of his day. Leon was nice, he was funny, and it was always pleasant to see him. Chris had almost forgotten about the incident entirely, forgotten that Leon had stayed on his couch and smelt like citrus and sought him out for help. Forgotten until Chris was again rudely woken up. He didn’t even know what had woken him up from such a dead sleep so suddenly until his brain woke up more. There was yelling, and arguing, and someone sounded pissed where they were muffled through the wall behind Chris’ bed, where his apartment lined up to Leon’s. Chris was up in an instant when all those pieces clicked together, shoving on some shoes and a jacket and hurrying towards his own door. Last time the man had broken in through the window, he would be able to do it again and Chris wasn’t going to sit idly and listen to Leon get harassed again. He pulled open his door right as Leon came barreling in, accidentally throwing himself into Chris. Chris grabbed him, stumbling back, barely hearing someone yelling after Leon. Leon looked up, eyes nothing short of wild. His scent was all over the place, like he’d been posturing like a cornered animal trying to ward something off. “Please let me in!” Leon said, voice strained, as if he wasn’t already halfway through the door. Chris scrambled to get Leon inside, panic scratching at the back of his throat that he willed down. “Kennedy!” Someone screamed, clearly coming out of Leon’s apartment with a few ominous crashes and thuds to stalk down towards Chris’ door. Chris got Leon behind himself, trying to block the view of him from whoever was coming after him, unable to get him further into the safety of his apartment before the person was on them. The blond man that Chris had almost forgotten stomped to the front of Chris’ apartment, stopping to glare past Chris like he’d be able to see Leon, completely ignoring Chris for a moment. Leon pressed so close to Chris’ back that it felt like he was trying to leave an imprint on him. “Where is he.” The man asked, clearly not caring about the absolute scene he was making. A massive part of Chris couldn’t believe that he couldn’t just scent how Leon was right behind Chris, another part of him was thankful for it. “I’ll call the cops if you don’t leave.” Chris responded, hoping that was a threat that would hold weight. And it’s not like Chris could lie and act confused, this man knew Leon was here somewhere. The man snarled, showing off a black eye that Chris hadn’t noticed before. “They won’t get here faster than I can beat the shit out of you.” The man growled, leaning into Chris’ apartment, trying to press his back. His scent was sharp with fury, hot like a firecracker had just went off and now the smoke was burning everyone’s nose. Chris snarled back, anger raking down his spine, “I wouldn’t even try it.” He with just as much bite, trying to use the few inches he had on the man to his advantage to intimidate. The man hesitated, like he was thinking about something, really backing down. Chris waited with bated breath, still trying his best to tower over this other man while keeping Leon tucked behind him. Leon was completely still, barely even breathing over the ominous quiet in the hall now that the blond man had stopped shouting and barreling around. The man backed up and Chris had an inkling of hope that this was going to end pleasantly. And then the man swung his fist out fast enough that it caught Chris off guard, catching his shoulder instead of his face and pushing him back into Leon hard enough to stagger them both. Chris saw the moment the man finally caught sight Leon in the shadows of the apartment, pausing for just a moment before he was trying to barrel past Chris to get to Leon. Chris caught him by the chest, sternly keeping him out of his home. The grab startled the man like he’d zoned in on only Leon for a second and forgotten everything else and he stumbled back into the hall when Chris shoved. Chris heard Leon step back as the man tried to advance a second time, completely ignoring Chris. Chris debated how much trouble he wanted to get in before he scented Leon behind him, the way his scent was absolutely sour. Chris pulled back and wailed on the man who wouldn’t stop trying to invade him home, deeming this self-defense at this point. He hoped he was placing another black eye to match the first one, watching the man’s head snap back. The man stumbled back with a groan, holding his face. He looked up at Chris like he couldn’t believe that he’d hit him, as if he himself hadn’t just thrown a punch himself. There was an uncomfortable pause, Leon breathing fast behind Chris and the man glaring him down with a vengeance. Chris put himself between them again, shielding Leon once more. The man looked up at Chris. “Offer to call the cops is still on the table,” Chris said, “But I don’t think they’d get here to save you from getting your ass beat.” He snarled, properly on guard now, properly understanding the severity of the situation. The man stared at him, quiet. He stepped back like he had before and Chris braced himself, ready to defend from another punch. But then the man stepped back again, fully away from Chris now. “I’m not gonna stop coming back until I get him,” The man said, “You’re gonna get stuck playing knight to the princess and get no payoff for it. He’s not innocent either.” He kept going, ominous and more confusing than anything to Chris adrenaline run brain. Chris didn’t respond, didn’t have anything wise or smart to quip back, just watched the man stalk off with a limp Chris hadn’t noticed earlier. Chris was reminded of how eerily quiet it was outside in the dead of night when people weren’t fighting. Chris slowly forced himself to relax, pulling back into his apartment to close and lock the door. He took a second to breathe, try to shake off the confrontation that made his heart pound. Chris turned around, hoping to see a happy to be left alone omega and instead being met with something closer to fear. Leon was staring at him with wide eyes, looking unsure and scared. He was backed up some from Chris, no longer on top of him and using his body as a shield. He was breathing fast enough that it worried Chris, kicking on his PTSD training that the BSAA put them through yearly. So the first thing Chris did was raise his hands, give Leon a little more space. “He’s gone now,” Chris said, Leon watching him. He really didn’t seem like he was disassociating or anything, but he was panicked, “He won’t come back, can I do anything for you?” Chris offered, talking slow and quiet. Leon stared at him, brow furrowing as he borderline hyperventilated. “Do anything?” Leon asked, coming out just as breathy as Chris expected. Chris nodded, “Yeah, do you want any water? Need to lay down? Want me to leave you alone for a little bit? I’d happily give you my bedroom for a bit to have some time to yourself.” Leon stared at him a little longer, like he was really struggling to process what Chris was saying. His scent was still so sour, but it seemed like he was almost confused enough by Chris to be distracted from his fear. Chris had a moment where he hoped his own scent wasn’t bothering Leon, that his clover and pepper wasn’t upsetting him. “Umm—” Leon rubbed his hands together like he was nervous, struggling to talk as he seemed to get more aware of himself and where he was and what happened, “Water? Water please.” He said, voice shaky. Chris readily nodded, sending Leon a reassuring smile. “Sure, give me a second, I’ll just be right over here.” Chris said, walking to the adjoined kitchen to get Leon some water. They were out of each others line of sight for a few seconds, and it was enough to make Chris nervous. He wanted to see Leon, know that his neighbor who he’d gotten pretty fond of was okay. Needed to know that whoever that man was wasn’t going to keep bothering Leon. Maybe he could get the BSAA involved? This wasn’t their place at all, but maybe they had some connections for Chris to get Leon help. God, why wasn’t there just a restraining order yet? Or was there and it kept getting broken? Chris brought back a glass of water, Leon still standing by the front door, watching it nervously. He had his arms up around himself, wearing a long-sleeved shirt and pajama pants but still shivering. “Here.” Chris said before he was on top of Leon and spooked him, holding out the water. Leon turned to Chris, giving him an appreciative if not shaky smile and taking the water. His hands shook, and Chris really worried he was going to spill it. But Leon persisted and took an unsteady sip, still breathing unsteadily. His breath hitched here and there like he was about to cry, but he held surprisingly strong in front of Chris. Chris let silence drift between them for a few moments, letting Leon stand there and stare at the water in his hands blankly. “You okay?” Chris asked softly when enough time had passed. Leon looked back up at him, still coming down from his panic. He gave Chris a proper smile that really looked more like a grimace. “Mhmm,” He responded, “I uhh—” His breath hitched and Leon visibly calmed himself with a deep breath, “I need to grab something… out of my apartment. I umm—I—” He held the cup with a tight grip, Chris carefully reaching out to take it from him. Leon let him and Chris watched him bring up a hand to his face to press against his eyes, wiping away tears. Leon cried quietly in Chris’ apartment, the room feeling painfully big with the two of them alone in the center while Chris just let Leon do what he needed to, crying included. Only a few tears fell and Leon quickly wiped them away, forcing himself to take deep breaths. He just went quiet for a few seconds more, Chris giving him that time. He waited, watching Leon stand there before speaking up. “You need something in your apartment?” Chris asked, trying to prompt Leon back into his sentence. Leon sniffled, nodding. “Yeah,” His voice cracked, “I just need some stuff.” He said. Chris worried a little. What if that guy was there again? Had walked back and was waiting for Leon to come back. “Can I walk with you? And will you stay here again, I really don’t want you in there tonight.” Chris asked. Leon looked at him, confused, “You’ll let me stay?” He asked. He looked hopeful enough that it hurt Chris a little, giving Leon another reassuring smile. “Of course. My door is open for you and that couch isn’t getting much other use.” He said, trying to put some humor into the rough situation. Leon smiled at that, giving a wet laugh. “I’m happy to break it in for you more.” Leon responded, voice watery. Chris set the glass of water down on the table next to the couch, clapping his hands together quietly. “Let’s get your things, then we can call the police and—” “No!” Leon interrupted, sounding just as alarmed as he looked, “No, I’m sorry. I’m going to call someone else, they’ll handle him.” Leon said. Chris made a face. “Is it the same people you called last time? Because it doesn’t seem like they did much good.” Chris said, feeling a little bitter that whoever Leon trusted so much clearly were still letting him get in harms way. Leon scowled at him and that was enough for Chris to realize he somehow overstepped a line. Leon watched the way Chris’ face must have fallen and he sighed, still shaky and upset but slowly calming. Leon shook his hands out nervously, squeezing his eyes closed in an almost pained manner, “Please trust me and my decisions.” He said, sounding like he was getting close to crying again. Chris frowned. “I didn’t mean to upset you,” Chris raised his hands placatingly, Leon blinking his eyes open again, “I trust you. I just worry.” He said, regret clawing at him. It was almost painful to think that he was hurting Leon in some way. Now wasn’t the time to try and protect Leon in Chris’ own way, he needed to just let Leon do what he needed to do. Stressing out the pregnant person was the last thing he wanted. Leon shook his hands out again, shifting on his feet, “Thanks.” He said simply, like he wasn’t sure what else to fill the air between them with. “Do you want to lead the way? If you’re still okay with me walking you.” Chris said, unlocking the front door to hold it open, trying to right his wrong a little by giving Leon some choices. Leon flashed him a strained smile, walking past Chris with an undeniable nervous energy bleeding off of him. Chris followed Leon outside, making sure he had his keys on him before closing his own door. Leon walked down to his apartment and Chris trailed behind, both of them quiet. They were pretty high up in their apartment complex, wind blowing high up onto their balcony, nipping at Chris uncomfortably. He watched Leon rub his arms through his long-sleeved shirt, heard his teeth chatter with the chill. They walked up to the door and Leon just pushed it open, the lock broken in. He stepped inside and Chris followed with a enough concern for a small army. It was trashed inside. Not to mention oddly barren at the same time. There were only the bare necessities in the room really, no trinkets or anything that would give Chris a better look into who Leon was. There was a couch, rotated oddly in the middle of the room, papers that probably went on the coffee table in front of it scattered over the ground. Chris followed Leon further into the apartment as he picked his way through, stepping over throw pillows that spilled feathers on the floor and a throw blanket that looked torn to shreds laid out on the ground. Leon picked up a few things as he went, photographs that looked torn and papers with fine print on them, tucking everything against his chest as he walked. Chris spotted the window that must have had the lock broken on it all those days ago. The curtain that partially covered it was closed, untouched. Concern gripped Chris in a vice, watching as Leon sifted through what few belongings he seemed to have. It really was a mess in here, like a tornado had went through and threw everything around. Chris hadn’t even considered that the man would have trashed Leon’s home. He frowned hard, a deep discomfort settling in his chest. “Are you alright?” Chris asked, stepping over a pushed over bedside table that was noticeably not in the bedroom. Leon looked back at him, confused, “I’m okay. This is bad, yeah, but I’m not too upset. I didn’t own too much.” He said, less nonchalant than he probably wanted it to come off. Leon’s voice was still shaky, hands trembling and rattling the papers he was holding. Chris took Leon at his word, but it didn’t answer another aspect of his question, “But physically? You’re not hurt or anything, right?” Chris asked. He walked up closer to Leon, making sure he wasn’t upsetting the man by moving into his space, but trying to get a good look in the dark. If the apartment was this bad then… Leon stopped short of walking into the bedroom, pausing to pull up his sleeve. “Just this.” He said, showing off a fresh bruise on his forearm. Leon went to pull his sleeve down after showing it off and Chris reached out to stop him, more than a little concerned, throat feeling dry. He grabbed Leon’s wrist gently, Leon jolting at the touch but letting Chris hold his arm, turn it and inspect. Chris was quiet, trying to gauge how bad it was. It was just a bruise, but imagining Leon having to go through… something to get it was setting him off something horrible. “It’s not that bad,” Leon said, voice breaking through the little haze in Chris’ brain, “Did you see him? He got it worse than he gave.” And he was right, that guy had a black eye, a limp. That required a solid punch and then some. Chris let go of Leon’s arm, tugging his sleeve down for him. Leon paused before tucking his arm back against his chest to hold the few things he was picking up. Leon started working his way into the bedroom more, Chris staying out in the little hall between the living room and bedroom. He wasn’t sure if it would upset Leon to have him in the room, some omegas were weird about that. Or… not weird. It just upset their instincts, and Chris was an alpha, he didn’t want to stress out Leon any more than he was already. Leon finally picked up something with a hum and Chris looked over to see him holding his phone. Leon worked his way back to Chris, stepping over so many shattered pieces of furniture and torn pillows. There was a crack over the phone screen, the glass absolutely destroyed. “Can I make the call in your place?” Leon asked, finally coming back up to Chris. “Of course, you done here?” He asked. He looked past Leon for a second, noting that even in the bedroom there wasn’t anything of significance, nothing of emotional meaning. Not even photos in his room, all of them had been scattered in the living room. “For sure, I don’t want to linger any longer than I have to.” He said, sounding a little bitter. He was taking the destruction of his home better than Chris ever could. With Leon finished, Chris led them back to his own apartment, unlocking the door and letting Leon in before him. Leon set his stuff down on the coffee table in front of what was gonna be his makeshift bed for the night, phone included. Chris watched him, locking the door and looking his guest over to make sure he was okay. He seemed okay, minus the tremor he had here and there. If his apartment and the way he had rushed to Chris said anything, he went through hell, so Chris was impressed with how levelheaded he seemed now. Although, maybe he felt safe with Chris. That made him preen a little, chest warm. “Who’s the guy?” Chris asked almost despite himself. He was curious, he didn’t want to skirt the elephant in the room. Leon looked up at him, phone in hand. He had an uncomfortable look on his face and Chris was quick to try and cover up his mistake. “You don’t have to tell me.” He waved his hands, cringing a little at himself. Maybe he should have skirted the elephant in the room… “No, it’s fine,” Leon waved it off even as he still seemed uncomfortable, “He’s uh—my ex. That’s all really.” Leon shrugged with a frown, turning his attention back to the phone in his hand. Chris frowned some, “Is that really all?” Chris asked. He wasn’t trying to drill Leon or anything, but what an ominous response. Leon paused, resting a hand on his hip with a heavy sigh. Not necessarily at Chris, the exhaustion from the night starting to weigh on him. “We’re old work partners, got together, got me pregnant, then we broke up. He’s been bitter over some stuff ever since and is continuing to bother me.” Leon said in a quick huff of air, like he was trying to hurry and say everything so the words didn’t linger in his mouth. There was a good amount to unpack there, Chris closing his mouth to think through it. “How far along are you?” Chris asked. Leon thought for a moment before shrugging. “A couple months? I don’t know, it’s been a chaotic few weeks so most of that is lost on me,” Leon said, and then was quick to follow up, “Not that I don’t care. I do, a lot. I just… there’s a lot on my plate right now.” He finished, visibly getting upset. “That’s okay,” Chris raised his hands placatingly. He needed to stop asking questions, stop pushing if he didn’t want Leon’s citrus scent to keep getting bitter, “How about you make your call, head to bed, and we can talk more in the morning?” He offered. Leon relaxed some, shoulders falling. “That sounds good.” Leon sighed, finishing typing something on his phone. Chris turned away this time when Leon brought the phone to his ear, tried not to listen. It wasn’t his business, and hopefully he could get more answers tomorrow morning instead of trying to listen for them. He was worried about this situation the more he learned, and educating himself more on it would ease his worry. Leon hung up after a few minutes of Chris pretending to be very interested in pictures of him and Claire on his wall. Leon got himself curled up on the couch quietly, Chris walking over to pull a blanket up over him. He worried he might be overstepping a boundary by almost tucking Leon in, but Leon seemed appreciative. He really was exhausted, the less work he had to do the happier Chris was. Chris paused to take a step back, Leon tucked under warm blankets with a pillow under his head. “You gonna be okay?” Chris asked, chest aching a little at everything that’s happened so far. Leon looked up at him, looking so at ease under all the covers, “I’ll be good. I need a long sleep,” Leon yawned, blinking slowly, “I’ll give you more answers tomorrow. Thanks, really.” Leon said quietly, earnestly. Chris gave Leon the warmest smile he could muster, letting out some of his scent for Leon and watching Leon relax even further until it was hard to tell what was Leon and what was blanket. “Of course. See you tomorrow, Leon.” He said, watching Leon smile back tiredly. Chris went into his own room, cracking the door. He tucked himself into bed, sitting there for a moment. He stayed up as long as he could manage, listening to see if the blond haired man was coming back. But eventually it was late enough that Chris couldn’t keep his eyes open and he let himself sleep, ready to see Leon in the morning.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
Chris woke up as early as he could manage. Going to bed so late was biting him in the ass but he wanted to stay up to make sure things had settled, and woke up early because he worried Leon would run out on him again. Not that he wouldn’t let Leon leave if he really wanted to, but Chris had a lot of questions and was hoping to get some answers. So Chris dragged himself out of bed with a little more struggle than he wanted to admit, feeling groggy. He still had work today and everything, but he was up before the sun had even risen so he had plenty of time. Maybe he should call in to say he wasn’t going to be there so he could watch Leon, or maybe escort him somewhere safer since his ex clearly knew where he was living. Chris walked out of his room slowly, trying not to wake up Leon just to see that Leon was already sitting up. He was holding his cracked phone in his hands and typing away at something distractedly. But his head whipped up when Chris stepped a little louder to let his presence be known, floor creaking under him. “Good morning.” Chris greeted, a little surprised to see that Leon was already up. Leon sent Chris a strained smile, turning off his phone to pay more attention to Chris. “Morning.” He responded simply, sounding tired. Chris frowned. “You okay?” Chris asked, coming into the living room more. Leon frowned a little. “I’ve just got a lot of cleaning up to do after yesterday. I have work today too, all that, y’know?” He sighed, reaching up to rub the back of his neck. Chris blanched. “You’re still going to work, after last night?” He asked. If Chris had been in Leon’s shoes last night he wouldn’t go to work, he’d call out and spend the day trying to get the cops on his stalkers ass. “I kinda have to. I have…” He paused, frowning, “My job is weird. But I have to go in.” He said. “Is that guy finally going to get handled?” Chris asked, crossing his arms. Leon grimaced. “Sort of? It’s complicated.” Leon wrung his hands out nervously, looking away from Chris. Chris scowled. “Leon.” He said sternly. Leon turned and snarled back at Chris, scent flaring, angry and burnt. “You don’t understand the situation,” Leon growled, Chris taken aback by the sudden outlash, “I appreciate your help, but you can’t try to shepherd me around just because you think you get it. You don’t.” Leon stood up, fuming, gripping his phone with a white knuckled hand. Chris floundered as Leon moved to leave, walk out on Chris. “Wait! Leon, I’m sorry,” He called, not moving to stop Leon but sure as hell trying to slow him, “I’m not trying to overstep. I’m just very worried. From my perspective you’re being stalked and your stalker has broken into your brand new apartment twice now, to the extent that you’re having to run away to escape him,” He paused, catching his breath, “This isn’t okay or safe, I’m just very concerned.” Leon stopped, staring at Chris. And after a moment some of the angry tension in his shoulders dropped. He frowned, bringing his hands together to fidget with his phone, just rubbing his thumb over the edges of it. “You don’t even know me.” He said, like he was questioning Chris’ motives, not understanding why Chris was so concerned. Chris shifted on his feet. “Yeah, but you’re clearly going through something… I’m not just going to ignore that. We’re not complete strangers either, I’ve gotten to know you a bit.” Chris said, a little hurt. He knew they weren’t close, but Chris had defended Leon twice now, they had talked before outside of those stressful situations too. Leon brought a hand up to his forehead, pressing against it and closing his eyes like he had a headache. Leon sighed, loud and frustrated in the space between them. “I’m sorry,” He raised his hand, eyes still closed exasperatedly, “I don’t mean to snap. I’m stressed out,” He said, looking at Chris finally, “This situation is very complex. I don’t want to hurt him, or have him arrested. He’s been through enough and I can’t keep letting him get hurt. I’m letting the people who I trust try to handle it with as much care as they can. He’s hard to get ahold of is all.” That made so many questions marks light up in Chris’ head, just adding more questions to anything than answers. The man had trashed Leon’s home, had hurt him, was clearly causing him stress and fear. And still, he didn’t want to get him in trouble with the law? Chris was so confused, unbearably confused. But Leon was right, there really had to be something that he was missing. So he needed to just trust Leon. “Okay. I’m sorry for overstepping on something I don’t know anything about.” He said. Silence settled between them, riled up scents calming down. The two of them stood awkwardly in the living room, Leon by the door still. “I do really need to go to work though,” He said, pointing uncomfortably to the door as if he were now asking for permission to leave. Chris frowned, not angry, just disappointed, “I thought I was gonna get some answers.” He said, trying not to sound accusatory, not make Leon feel forced to stay. But still remind him that they had made a small deal. Leon winced. “I know, I’m really sorry,” Leon clasped his hands together, looking genuinely apologetic, “I’ll get around to it. I just really need to go.” He said. Chris sighed. “I’ll hold you to it. Have a good day, I’ll see you another time.” Chris said, unable to keep the disappointment out of his voice. Leon frowned, hesitating. But he went for the door, quietly stepping out into the hall. He closed the door behind himself, footsteps muffled where they hurried down the hall. Chris wrapped his arms around himself, alone in his apartment. After a moment of wallowing in his own slight disappointment, Chris decided to just get ready for the day. He had a job of his own to get to, he couldn’t mope around all day. Or worry all day… He got his clothes on and shaved, sat around in his living room watching minutes pass as he waited for a proper time to leave for work. He didn’t want to be sitting in the office alone at the crack of dawn. But then there was a knock on his door and Chris got up, his silence disturbed. Chris opened the door with muted annoyance and Leon stood on the other side. Confusion ran through Chris so strong that he didn’t even say anything, just stared. “Hey again,” Leon said, voice a little strained. He sniffled in a tell-tale “I was crying” way that hurt Chris’ heart, Chris catching the upset in his scent, “You might get those answers sooner than you thought. Can I get a ride to work?” Leon asked. Chris firstly gestured for Leon to come inside, closing the door behind the man. “What happened?” Chris asked, finally finding his words. Leon gave a watery laugh, wiping his face. “He trashed my motorcycle,” His words pitched up at the end like he was holding back a dam of tears, “So I can’t get to work.” Leon said. “Oh shit,” Chris said, brain struggling to catch up with the words, the severity of them, “I’m sorry. Yeah, I can give you a ride.” He hurried over to his kitchen to grab his keys, catching Leon’s appreciative smile. Maybe he’d have to call into work after all. “Thanks. Sorry, I hate to keep relying on you,” Leon sniffled again, then gave a small, choked up laugh, “And crying in your home.” Chris turned back to see his wobbly, forced smile. He frowned hard, coming over to Leon with his keys in hand, things starting to finally unfuzz in his brain as he processed the situation. “It’s okay. I’m sorry about your bike. My sister has two, working on a third. If anything happened to them she’d be devastated.” He sympathized. He’d caught Claire in the middle of a motorcycle related crisis only once and she’d been almost inconsolable thinking she’d blown her engine. Chris really never wanted to see her that upset ever again. Leon looked up at Chris, wiping his face. “Yeah, that thing was my baby,” Leon laughed again, “A gift and everything.” Chris started moving towards the door, having a feeling that Leon wouldn’t want to be late to work and wanting to get a movee on for him. “A gift? Who gifted you a motorcycle?” Chris asked, a little amused if not for what was going on. He led Leon down the hall, making space so they could walk beside each other. Trying to make sure Leon didn’t have some breakdown with how clearly upset he was, no matter how hard he was trying to cover it. Leon sniffled again, already seeming like he was calming down, sticking close to Chris, “A friend. It was sort of an apology gift, but over something that’s so far in the past it’s already forgiven. I wasn’t gonna turn it down though.” Leon said. Talking about it again seemed to pull some more tears forward and Chris watched Leon’s forced smile turn to a strained one, fighting to keep himself afloat. “Where do you work?” Chris asked, changing the subject. “Can I just give you directions?” Leon asked. Chris raised a brow at him. “Uh—sure man. If that’s what you want,” Chris said. He waited a few seconds before asking, “Can we still do that Q&A?” Leon sighed, not annoyed or upset just so clearly tired. “Yeah, we can.” He said. Chris sent Leon what he hoped was a reassuring smile, heading down to the parking garage to get to his car. It was mostly quiet on the rest of the way down, Leon still sniffling here and there, subtly wiping away a few tears. They got into the garage and Chris showed Leon where his car was. And spotted an absolutely torn to shreds motorcycle on the other side of the garage. “Jesus,” Chris grimaced, looking at it, “That yours?” He asked. Leon didn’t even look, just heaved a sigh. “Yeah, that’s mine.” He said, voice cracking. Chris looked at him, his hunched shoulders and sullen scent. “Did you take pictures yet? In case you need to file something.” Chris asked. Leon shook his head, still looking away from the wreckage. “I couldn’t really look at it for that long.” Leon said, trying to play off how distraught he was with some humor in his tone. He really was devastated over this… “I’ll take some, send them to you later.” Chris said. He didn’t wait for Leon to really respond, just hurried over with his phone to take a few pictures. It was a shame, really. This really was Leon’s baby. It was beautiful, custom, once well kept. And now torn into pieces and clearly unsalvageable. It was almost impressively destroyed. Chris took his pictures and hurried back, unlocking his jeep so Leon could pull himself up into the passenger seat. Chris got up into the driver seat, starting up the car. “Thanks,” Leon said, “I’ll give you my number soon.” He went on, buckling his seatbelt. He tugged it under his pregnant belly, just emphasizing how big he actually was when normally Chris saw it covered by baggy clothes. Now that he thought about it, Leon was dressed… odd for a job. It was almost closer to what Chris wore at the BSAA. Tight top, showing off Leon’s belly unintentionally, baggy cargo pants with enough pockets to hide anything, a jacket. Chris started the car, pulling out of the garage. “Take a left.” Leon directed as they moved from dark garage to too bright sun, and Chris listened, heading down the road. “What’s your job?” Chris asked, having so many questions but that at the forefront now. Leon’s scent was seeping into the car, becoming more of what Chris was used to as he calmed down. “Uhh—” Leon started, scratching his chin, “I work for the government.” He said in a way that Chris caught as off: just something not right. “Oh really? What do you do there?” He asked, prying now. Curiosity peaked. “Well I—you know. Government things…” Leon said, looking like he wanted to shrink into his seat and die. Chris withheld a laugh. It wasn’t that important, he could keep bothering Leon another time over this, maybe when they were closer. “Take a right here.” Leon directed and Chris took the turn. Chris let the quiet linger for a moment. “So what made you move into our apartment building?” Chris asked, a proper question now. Leon shrugged in his periphery, “Oh you know, just hiding from my ex. Seemed like the best place.” It would have made Chris laugh if he hadn’t seen firsthand how terrified Leon had been in the face of him. If he hadn’t seen how he decimated something that was clearly important to Leon. “Are you sure you can’t just arrest him?” Chris asked, a little exasperated. Leon sat up a little in his seat, “Yes,” Leon answered sternly, “We can’t have that happen.” Chris just took that for what it was: something he wasn’t changing Leon’s mind on. “Why is he after you? He said you aren’t innocent in “this” too, whatever that means.” Chris asked, knowing he might get into some dangerous, uncomfortable territory here. Leon sighed long sufferingly. Chris laughed a little. “Regretting the Q&A now?” He asked. “God yeah. Turn right here,” He said, gesturing vaguely down the road. “But like I said before, we used to date. For a while too. About… four years,” Leon frowned, “We broke up over what most couples do: when things just don’t work out,” Leon paused, looking down at his hands in his lap, “There’s so much that adds up to it, and so much that goes into me not wanting him arrested, but at the end of the day he just wants me back.” Chris couldn’t have been more confused. “Hell of a way to get you back. Break into your apartment, trash it, ruin your bike. Hurt you.” Chris stressed the last part, coming to a stop at a red light. Remembering the bruise on Leon’s arm. Leon sighed again. “I know, I know. But he didn’t mean to hurt me… He’s very controlling and it bothers him that he can’t… easily wrangle me back,” Leon said, “I’m not innocent because I didn’t step in when he was getting let go from our job and even had to assist in writing the report. It tore him apart and eventually that broke down our relationship.” Leon explained like it pained him, and Chris didn’t expect much else. He decided to try and be careful with his words. He was curious, but he didn’t want to hurt Leon. “What do you think he’ll do if he gets you?” Chris asked. He saw Leon shudder out of the corner of his eye. “I’ve been trying not to think about it.” He responded quietly, the hum of the car almost overtaking his words. “I really need to understand why you can’t act against him, call the cops on him.” Chris said, trying to speak gently. Leon’s scent flared up next to him, almost distressed. Leon gripped his seat, “I really can’t tell you,” He said, voice catching like he was stressed, strained, “It’s classified information.” “I’ll stop asking,” Chris said quickly to try and ease the omega. He hesitated, but reached over a hand to grab Leon’s forearm gently, rubbing his thumb over his arm in what he hoped was a comforting gesture. He pulled his hand away to drive, catching Leon’s scent easing, the citrus and green going back to something pleasant and fresh. “I’m sorry. I’m not trying to force you to speak so don’t feel like you owe me an answer. I’ll stop asking about that, okay?” He asked. Leon was quiet, but Chris glanced at him to see Leon looking at him, eyes a little wide. He gave a stilted nod, shifting to cradle his arms closer to himself, “Okay.” Chris still had other questions, but Leon was quiet and calming and Chris didn’t want to rile him up again. They kept driving and Leon kept directing, Chris flicking the radio on to fill the silence between them. It wasn’t uncomfortable but there was a tenseness that Chris wanted to muffle. Leon eventually directed Chris where to pull up and Chris pulled in front of a dull looking building. He parked the car, wondering if he should come around and help Leon out of the car. And then the opportunity presented itself when Leon stepped out of the car and hissed like he was in pain. His scent was bitter for just a second before it covered itself, like he caught himself. “You good?” Chris asked, knowing he wasn’t. Leon waved at him awkwardly, holding his back. “Been better.” He said, voice strained. Chris turned off the engine, stepping out and coming around. Leon looked up at him, face pulled into a grimace. Chris offered out a hand and Leon glanced at it. Then hesitantly took the hand, leaning some of his weight on Chris. He hissed under his breath, trying to stand straighter. “I can walk you in.” Chris offered, letting Leon lean more weight on him. He was still holding his back, baby bump so prominent. Chris looked away from it, instead looking at the grimace on Leon’s face, the way his nose scrunched up. Leon looked up at him, a little conflicted. Leon rubbed his back with a quiet groan, grip on Chris flexing. “Yeah. Yeah, at least partly there, please?” He asked, as if Chris was going to refuse now. “Of course,” Chris said, tone warmer than he intended. He fished his keys out of his pocket, locking his car, “Lead the way and I’ll follow.” He turned back to Leon with a smile, giving his hand a squeeze. Leon looked back at him appreciatively. Chris walked with Leon, being led through the front door by him. Chris could feel that Leon was a little nervous about walking arm in arm with Chris, a little tense and scent a little anxious. Chris tried to give him some space, but that really only seemed to make things worse so Chris just let Leon lead, let Leon decide how close they’d be. Chris followed Leon further into the building, honestly getting a little lost with all the twists and turns. Leon gave a few nods to people who passed, raising a greeting hand at him. It amused Chris to think that Leon was Mr. Popular at work, that he knew so many of these people. The two of them were quiet as they walked, Chris just taking in everything he passed and Leon just quietly walking to wherever he needed to go. He didn’t seem as pained with Chris there to help take some of his weight, scent relaxing. “Leon,” Someone trotted up to them when they took another turn down the hall. Chris turned to look at them, a woman in red glasses and a grey suit walking towards them, heels clicking on the ground. She was holding a phone in her hand, closing it as she came up to them. “You didn’t contact me this morning.” She said sternly, almost an accusation. Chris frowned hard, wanting to speak up in Leon’s defense at the stern tone. Leon’s been through enough, he didn’t need— “It’s been a long morning,” Leon sighed, unbothered by her. He let go of Chris to push his bangs back, rub his face exasperatedly, “Sorry.” He said. The woman sighed, but shook her head fondly. “You alright?” She asked, Chris feeling very apart from this conversation. He took a step back, giving the two space since clearly there wasn’t any bad blood between them. “Yeah,” Leon sighed again, “Sleeping on a couch hurt my back, and…” He hesitated, a pained look passing his face. Chris spoke up, knowing where this was going, “His ex trashed his bike.” Chris spoke up. Attention turned to him, Chis catching the way Leon relaxed some. The woman looked Chris over, eyes calculating in a way that Chris rarely had to face. “And this is?” She asked, looking at him over her glasses. “Oh, Chris, meet Hunnigan,” Leon gestured between them, “Hunnigan, Chris. This is who let me sleep at his place and hide out some.” The woman—Hunnigan—stared Chris down: and then gave a smile, so pleasant. Chris finally picked up on her scent, so many soothing herbs hitting his nose. It wasn’t an overwhelming scent, but it commanded an air of respect around her. “So nice to meet you, thank you for looking out for my agent.” She reached a hand out and Chris took it, shaking back. The gears in his brain were turning. Agent… Agent? “It’s my pleasure, I’m happy to help… um—” Chris’ brain stuttered. Agent… what was it that Leon’s ex had called him? Agent Kennedy. “Wait,” Chris said, his and Hunnigan’s hands finally falling away, “You wrote the Kennedy report. You had to of.” Chris said, turning to Leon. Leon stared back at him and cringed. Chris’ brain was imploding a little. Hunnigan looked between them, “You didn’t tell him?” She asked, looking at Leon who was trying not to make eye contact. Leon finally looked at her as silence stretched on. “I didn’t want things to get complicated,” he said, and then gave a sardonic little laugh, “But look where we are now.” Chris was a little stunned. Maybe awestruck? It was like learning that you had been talking to a celebrity for the past few weeks. Chris had read the Kennedy Report front and back, it was standard for basically anyone going into fighting BOWs. “Awed?” Hunnigan asked, sounding amused. Chris realized his jaw was dropped and clicked it closed. Leon was looking at him with something close to bashful mortification. “I’ve read it,” Chris said, putting a hand to his chest, “All of it. Front to back, more than once,” He was staring at Leon, really taking him in now. Wow, this was the guy who went through all of that? Who was the reason they knew so much? “I work for the BSAA, you’ve saved hundreds of lives with your own experience.” Chris said, chest feeling tight with excitement. Leon was looking a little overwhelmed, eyes wide and face a pleasant pink. “The BSAA?” Hunnigan asked, pulling Chris’ attention. “Yes ma’am,” He responded quickly, forcing himself to look at her when she spoke, “I’ve been with them since it was founded.” Her eyes went a little wide. “What was your name again?” She asked, squinting. “Chris,” He said, then finally tacked on, “Redfield.” Hunnigan blinked. She whipped her head to look at Leon. Chris looked back at Leon, his jaw dropped. “Are you serious?” Leon asked, staring at Chris like he’d grown a second head. Chris frowned, a feeling of dread washing over him now that his almost-idol seemed shocked. “Yeah… is there a problem?” Chris asked, trying not to cross his arms defensively. He was feeling a little on the spot now. Leon looked back at Hunnigan, still looking so struck. And then he laughed, tense posture relaxing. “Oh my God,” Leon laughed, Hunnigan looking just as amused, “I know Claire Redfield. We went through RC together.” Leon said. Chris really thought his brain was going to explode. He knew they could tell how his thoughts had grinded to a halt with shock when Leon laughed again, scent light and happy in a way Chris had barely scented before. It knocked him out of his stillness, bringing him back a little as Leon took humor in his silence. “This is unreal.” Chris said, starstruck still. Someone pushed past the trio in the hall and Chris was suddenly very aware of how much they were taking up space. “Let’s get to my office, we can keep talking there. But Leon will need to get to work soon.” Hunnigan said. Chris nodded. “Yes ma’am.” He responded, following as she turned to lead them. She kept checking back to make sure Leon was with her, moving a little slower to accommodate for him. He kept looking into the rooms they passed, checking everything, distracted. They moved into her office and she let them sit in the seats across from her desk while she took her own chair. Her office was surprisingly nice and Chris was finally starting to comprehend that not only was Leon a big name around here, but Hunnigan had to be the same. The mahogany desk and custom fancy name plate said everything. The three of them exchanged some small talk, throwing around amazement over the coincidences and a few affectionate jabs at Claire now that they knew they both knew her. Leon checked off some good boxes for Chris with how he talked about Claire, didn’t make any rude comments about her or show any annoyance. Chris knew she was talkative, she could be pushy, but it was always for the right reasons. Some people didn’t agree with that and took out unnecessary anger on his sister, so Leon’s admiration for her was a breath of fresh air. Chris’ brain was still whirling as they chatted, feeling like he finally really was seeing Leon properly, who he actually was instead of just seeing him as his nice neighbor with an insane ex. But he started connecting some dots, remembering things from the report he knew so well. Remembering names and people and actions. “So—” Chris spoke up, somewhat interrupting something that Leon was saying. Leon paused, turning to Chris. “Sorry to bring the conversation here, but what did you say your ex’s name was?” Chris asked, testing waters, wanting to see if he was right before making a wild accusation. Leon frowned a little, eyes flicking to Hunnigan across from them before looking back at Chris. “I didn’t say. But it’s Jack. Krauser.” He said slowly, like it caused him discomfort. Chris’ brain fired off a thousand signals in a second. “The guy from Spain?” He asked, incredulous. Leon grimaced, hiding the bottom half of his face in his hand as he leaned his chin down into it. His eyebrows were furrowed, scent coming out bitterly. “Sorry, I just… that’s the guy you’re having a kid with? The one who tried to kill you, twice? I cannot understand why you don’t get him get arrested.” And then, a little hysterical, “Leon he tried to kill you.” Reiterating it because clearly he was missing something, that or Leon wasn’t getting it. “I’m well aware.” Leon grumbled, almost a growl deep in his chest. He was glaring at Chris and a hot flare of nervousness hit Chris like a wall at the look. He was once again being reminded that this was a trained professional and not some innocent man that happened to live next to him. God, he might even be more capable in combat than Chris was. “Mr. Redfield,” Hunnigan spoke up, butting between them to be a buffer before Leon tried to rip his throat out. “This is not a simple situation. I’m sure you also remember that Krauser was infected? That’s still the case, and because of this it’s unsafe for us to send him to a typical jail or have him apprehended by your everyday officer,” “We need to get him ourselves. It’s just difficult to do so as he’s always gone by the time we arrive.” She explained, cool and collected. Chris tried to process what she was saying, but still something was bothering him. “His apartment has gotten broken into twice,” Chris said, more hot and angry than he realized he was feeling, leaning forward and pointing to Leon, “I got to watch him be traumatized and stalked, not you. He ran to me, not you. This dude, this stalker, needs to be caught next time or I’ll figure something out myself.” Hunnigan blinked back at him. Then she frowned hard, turning to Leon. “Did you not tell me how bad it really was?” She asked him. Leon looked at her from over his hand, looking like a dog who had just gotten in trouble. “It really wasn’t that severe.” He said quietly, wiping his hands on his pants like he was getting clammy and nervous. Hunnigan scowled at him. “I would have moved you if I knew how bad it was, you know it’s not hard for us to find you a new place to live.” She said, almost exasperated as she pulled her keyboard closer to her to type something. “Yeah but—” “Leon, if you’re really under that much stress there then we need to move you.” “I like it there though.” Leon said, frustrated. “It’s not worth risking the baby,” Hunnigan said pointedly, looking at Leon over her glasses, typing without looking at her screen. Leon tensed up, nose wrinkling. Hunnigan kept talking, “We’ll get you in a new place quickly, just give me time to—” “I’m not moving again,” Leon said, stern, “I’m tired of moving every few weeks, its exhausting,” Leon said, closing his eyes tight. Chris watched him carefully, watched him clench his hands together and grind his teeth, upset. “Plus, I’ve got Chris there now. We’re friends.” Leon said, voice wobbling a little. Hunnigan finally slowed her typing right as Chris’ heart skipped a beat. “Okay,” Hunnigan said slowly, “Okay. You can stay, unless you really get hurt. And you need to call me as Krauser gets there if there’s another incident, not after. We’ll keep trying to track him until then. Leon just nodded, something like relief blooming in his scent. He had practically curled up in his seat next to Chris’, feet tucked up onto the chair the best he could with his baby bump in the way. “Can I make a suggestion?” Chris asked. Hunnigan gestured at him to go ahead, giving him a nod. Her whole demeaner had shifted to something more open and friendly, maybe trying to be careful to not upset Leon again. “Why not just station someone with Leon until the guy shows up again?” Chris asked. Hunnigan gave a short nod but sighed. “That was being considered, but it stresses Leon out more to have a coworker with him 24/7. Not to mention, Krauser strikes at odd times, with huge arhythmic gaps between those times. It would be a long, long waiting game that put a lot of stress on Leon in his personal life.” Hunnigan explained. Chris nodded slowly. He glanced at Leon, who just looked so tired next to him. Chris could understand that. He wouldn’t want someone up his ass all the time in the name of protection either, and Leon’s free will shouldn’t be tampered with over this. “Can I ask another question?” Chris asked again, knowing he’d was really testing his luck and both of these peoples patience. Two sets of eyes turned to him. “Sure…” Leon responded, a little hesitant, like he’d just learned his lesson earlier. “Will… the baby—” “No. She has no trace of infection.” Leon said, cutting to the chase, knowing what Chris was thinking. They were in the same line of work after all, they had to consider the same threats. Something like relief welled up in Chris for a kid that wasn’t his own. Maybe he was just relieved that that was one less stress on Leon’s shoulders. He couldn’t imagine the stress of trying to carry a kid you knew would be a biohazard, that you’d need special care to raise. God, if it was infected it may not even live that long. “We had Leon tested for all sorts of things when we realized he was pregnant.” Hunnigan filled in, now leaning forward on her desk with her hands clasped. “Do you know what the chances of it having any traces of las plagas are?” Chris asked, some concern still sitting in him. Leon and Hunnigan shared a look again. “The chance is up there, since… I was stupid. And the kid… came about while Krauser was infected. Just a moment of weakness, bad decision thing happened is all…” Leon said, getting a little distant like he was getting sucked into an uncomfortable memory, idly rubbing his thumb over his hand. “I’m not here to judge,” Chris said, seeing Leon refocus on the world around him, “Just wondering.” Leon flashed him an appreciative look, the shame that had started showing in his face clearing. There was a strange quiet that settled over the room for a second, not uncomfortable. Then Hunnigan checked the clock on her wall and she clicked a pen to break the quiet. “I’m sorry Mr. Redfield,” She said, standing up and straightening her skirt as she did so, “We really need to get our work day start. It’s been a pleasure to meet you, should I see you out?” She offered, gesturing for her door. Leon was quick to stand, fumbling a little as he teetered with his baby bump. “I can show him out. I dragged him in after all.” Leon said. Chris shot him a curious look, knowing full well that he had insisted on joining, not the other way around. Hunnigan just nodded. “That’s fine. I expect you to return here when you’re done.” She said, sitting back down at her desk, starting to pull a stack of papers towards herself. “Of course,” Leon said, starting to show Chris to the door, opening it for him, “I’ll be back in a bit.” He got them both into the hall and closed the door. “Here, I’ll show you out.” Leon said, getting a gentle hold on Chris’ arm to pull him carefully. Chris followed, enjoying the warm hand on his arm. Leon weaved out of the halls as well as he had weaved in, and they were outside by Chris’ car before he even knew it. “Thanks for the ride,” Leon said as they walked up, the sun up and bright now, “I really owe you.” “Anytime. If you need me to keep chauffeuring you I can, I just need to let my own work know so I don’t get in trouble for being late.” He said, throwing in a small laugh to lighten his tone. Leon caught the laugh, face brightening some. And then it fell again as Chris unlocked his car. “Did you really mean that, by the way? In the office.” Leon asked, wringing his hands together. “Which part?” Chris asked, raising a brow. He turned to Leon, trying to pay attention to him properly, give him his time. “About not judging me,” Leon said, and then raised his hands, “It really was a mistake. I was stupid and thought there was some change but there wasn’t, and it was just a bad situation all around afterwards so—” Chris raised his own hand and Leon’s jaw snapped shut, fast words halted. “I meant it,” Chris reassured, “I know your situation a little better now, and I’m still not completely content with your safety, but I’m not going to judge you over something like that.” He said. Leon’s shoulders fell and he looked a little shaken up. “Thanks,” He said, voice a little watery, a lot relieved. He leaned in for a hug and Chris accepted with surprise, a little starstruck by Leon’s warmth, his arms around Chris, his everything. And then he pulled back. “Don’t let me make you late to work, if you’re going. I’ll see you again soon.” Leon stepped back, and Chris took the space to hop into his car, feeling painfully fond and hating the idea of leaving. “See you around. Work safe, Kennedy.” He said, giving a quick wave goodbye before he started up the car and slowly drove off. Leon waited to go back inside the building until Chris was mostly down the road, Chris watching him in his rearview mirror. He was just going to go home. Maybe clean up, do some laundry, meal prep, something to keep him busy for the day that wouldn’t kill his brain. He’d already done enough work with his head today. He’d learned more than he expected to, now knew Leon better, understood his situation a little more, and cared a lot more. It really felt like they were starting to get to know one another, and Chris was looking forward to keeping that going.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
Chris and Leon only kept getting closer, especially now that they knew they shared a line of work. Chris drove Leon to work now since Leon went in earlier than him. So it worked out, and the time in the car they shared was everything for Chris. It was rarely quiet on their rides, one of them always talked about something from the night before or complained vaguely about the missions or paperwork they were dealing with in the office. Neither of them could go into much detail with their jobs for fear of getting in trouble with their organizations, but it was nice to be in the company of someone who could sympathize with even vague complaints. A couple days, then a week, then two passed of this comfortable new routine. Leon let Chris know that he was looking into getting a new bike, it was just taking time, and Chris kept reassuring Leon that it was fine. Chris was perfectly happy to drive Leon around. He was used to this routine and was happy to provide Leon with some company before work. But the routine was interrupted when someone knocked on Chris’ door at an unusual time, and Chris readily opened it, a little groggy with how late it was. He was so attuned to Leon’s scent at this point that he could smell him through the door, knew it was his neighbor before he even opened the door. “Hey.” Leon greeted a little awkwardly when Chris smiled down at him. A few alarm bells went off in Chris’ head at the way Leon was holding himself almost nervously. He guided Leon into his apartment and peaked out into the hall, making sure there wasn’t anything or anyone trailing behind the omega. “Is everything okay?” Chris asked, not spotting anything lurking in the shadows. Leon looked down at himself, confused, and then seemed to understand. “I’m okay, everything’s fine,” Leon waved at Chris like he was trying to calm him down, and Chris untensed his shoulders. “I just needed to ask for a favor.” Leon said, still seeming nervous. Chris gave Leon his attention, closing his front door finally. “Ask away then.” Chris said, waving Leon on. “So I still don’t have my motorcycle,” Leon started, wringing his hands, “And I really appreciate you driving me to work. So I hate to ask you to do more but—” Leon hesitated, the anxiety bleeding into his scent. It was disconcerting that Leon seemed so nervous when it felt like they’d been getting so close and comfortable with one another. “What do you need? You know I’m happy to help.” Chris tried to encourage him. Leon still hesitated a moment, fidgeting in Chris’ living room. “Can you give me a ride to a doctors appointment?” Leon asked. He finally made proper eye contact with Chris again, searching for Chris’ reaction. “Of course,” Was his immediate answer, and then he followed it with, “Is everything okay?” Leon nodded off Chris’ worry, “I’m not sick or anything, it’s a checkup.” He said, patting the top of his slowly growing baby bump. A little relief went through Chris. “Yeah, I can definitely drive you. When would you need the ride?” “In two days, it’s an early appointment, at 10.” Leon said, looking a little more relaxed but still like he expected Chris to back out. It was during a work day, a Thursday, so Chris understood why Leon thought he might not be willing to do it. “That’s fine, want to head out at 9:30?” He asked, and Leon finally calmed down, the nervousness so visible on him melting away. Chris could smell the relief in his scent as it slowly petered in, the sweetness coming back to its normal spot. “That’d be great,” Leon responded, smiling up at Chris. He peeked around Chris’ apartment and spotted a clock on Chris’ wall, an exasperated expression passing over his face. “I need to go, sorry to come over and ask for a favor and then leave.” “You’re fine,” Chris said, opening the door for Leon, “I’m always happy to help you.” Leon stepped out of the door, taking a second to turn back to Chris before he went back to his own apartment. “I really appreciate it.” Leon said, something warm in his expression. It was infectious, made Chris’ face heat up. “Of course. Have a good night Leon, see you tomorrow morning for work.” Chris said. Leon nodded, seeming happy and warm, then walked off to the side, to his own apartment. Chris closed the door and took a moment to relish in Leon’s lingering scent, citrus and green making his lungs pleasantly full. He knew he needed to go to bed, so Chris begrudgingly pulled himself away from where the scent was persisting. When Chris woke up the next morning Leon was extremely friendly. He was warm with Chris in the car, talkative, gave Chris so much of his attention. Leon was always kind and easy to get along with, but this was new. It made Chris flustered if he was honest, although he was sure that he was misinterpreting everything. Chris liked Leon a little more than he thought he should. It was something he didn’t need to focus on now, didn’t want to ruin a good thing by overthinking. His fondness for the man was just harder to push out of his immediate thoughts now that Leon was giving him lingering touches to the arm and sharing bright laughs. Chris just took what he was being given and didn’t ask for more. Maybe in another place Chris would have let himself think on it more, pursue it. But Leon was in a tough spot and was probably still hurting from everything with his ex. Chris didn’t want to push on a slowly healing bruise. When Thursday rolled around Chris had already called out of work the day before and was up bright and early to get himself cleaned up for the day and dressed. He made a small breakfast, scrolled around on his phone, and as 9:20 came around he shrugged on a jacket and went to go knock on Leon’s door. Leon opened, looking a little frazzled but pretty much ready. “Hey,” Leon smiled, hair all over the place. “I need another second to get myself together, do you wanna come in?” Leon offered, already gesturing for Chris to step in before Chris got a say. “Sure, take your time.” Chris said, walking into the landing of the apartment as Leon closed the door behind him. “I just need to grab my wallet and put my shoes on really, so just hang tight.” Leon called as he walked back further into the apartment, through the small hall that Chris knew led to Leon’s bedroom. Chris looked around the tiny living room while he was there, looked at the small kitchen to the side. It was closer to a kitchenette, a small part of Chris was surprised that there was even an oven. Leon came back out with one shoe on and the other in his hand, keys jingling in his other hand. He tossed the shoe on the ground while he looked through the keys and wallet Chris noticed in his other hand, shoving the shoe on while checking that he had everything. Leon got his shoe on and then put his belongings in his pockets, giving himself a quick pat down before hurrying back to Chris. He brushed his hair back, looking sufficiently put together. “I’m good, thanks for waiting.” He said. Chris just smiled and hummed back, opening the door for Leon. Leon hurried out and Chris followed, waiting while Leon locked his door. And then Leon turned and grabbed Chris’ arm gently, pulling him down the open hall. “I really appreciate you doing this.” Leon said, a sort of nervous energy buzzing off him. “Of course. Like I keep saying, I’m happy to help.” Chris responded. They went down the elevator together in quiet and by the time they were in the garage Chris could smell the anxiety coming off of the omega, sour and bitter. He seemed excited, had an ever-present smile on his face, but his scent was twisting in an uncomfortable way that was completely opposite of his outward appearance. They got in the car and Chris drove them out of the garage, Leon sharing the address with Chris and setting up his GPS. The car ride was strangely quiet, but not uncomfortable. Leon shifted in his seat here and there, fidgeting with his hands, grabbing his wallet and rifling through it then closing it again. Nervous gestures that made his keys jingle in his pocket. They pulled up to a hospital and Chris went through the parking garage, Leon pointing out where to go and where he should park. Chris moved where he was directed and waited, turning the engine off as he found a space near the doors Leon would need to go through. Leon got himself ready to go, once again nervously checking his pockets, his wallet, pushing his hair back. “Do you want me to go in with you?” Chris asked, not sure where the boundary was for this. It was a doctors appointment, Leon had the right to want to do this on his own. Chris would happily just sit in his car and wait for him to finish. Leon paused as he was about to open the car door. “Would you go in with me? Don’t have to, but…” Leon drifted off. Chris smiled, quick to reassure Leon as the intensity of the sourness in his scent increased. “I can go in if it would make you feel better.” Chris unbuckled his own seat belt, opened his car door. “It would,” Leon said, getting out of the car too. He closed the door and waited for Chris to come around before he kept talking. “I’m kinda nervous so it would be nice to have some company.” “Couldn’t tell you were nervous.” Chris said. Leon looked at him, giving Chris a playful shove. “Maybe I should leave you in the car.” He griped, holding the door into the hospital open for Chris. Chris laughed, walking into a short hall. Leon guided him from there, walking through the hall into the lobby of the hospital. Leon walked through another hall to two elevators and went up a couple floors, Chris just following where Leon led. He’d clearly done this before so Chris felt comfortable blindly following the man and ignoring the directions on the wall. Leon pointed Chris to sit down when they got to another small lobby and went up to check in, coming back to Chris afterwards. Leon sat close to Chris and leaned into him, still looking anxious. Chris leaned into Leon right back, giving him a solid weight to press against. They waited ten minutes before Leon was called and Leon stood, pulling Chris up with him. They walked through the halls and were put into a room together. Leon left with the nurse to do something that Chris hadn’t listened well enough to catch, too busy idly looking over all the diagrams and informational sheets on the walls. Chris sat and waited for Leon to come back, and he did in no time, going to sit on the observation table. Leon fidgeted while Chris scrolled through his phone, just making sure no one from work was trying to reach out to him. “Is this weird?” Leon asked, breaking through Chris’ focus on his phone. Chris looked up, confused. “Is what weird?” He asked, putting his phone away to give Leon his attention. Leon looked him over, like he didn’t believe that Chris was confused. “You being in here. I shouldn’t have put you in this position.” Leon sighed as if he was put out with himself, looking down at his hands. “No, I think it’s alright,” Chris said, leaning forward in his seat, “I think we’re close enough. We’re pretty similar Leon, we at least understand each other’s work situation, which is more than I can say for most.” He reassured. It really didn’t feel odd to him. Did it make him a little giddy that Leon trusted him in the room? Maybe. But it wasn’t weird. Leon hesitated, but Chris saw his shoulders start relaxing. A smile crept half over his face, like he didn’t want to let himself get too excited. And then there was a knock at the door and a young woman stepped in, looking at Chris before she spotted Leon. “Mr. Kennedy,” She greeted warmly, closing the door behind her with a soft click. She turned to Chris, tucking the paper she’d brought in close to her chest, “And who is this?” Chris stood, raising a hand for her to shake, maybe a little too formal, “Redfield. Chris.” He said. She shook his hand back, grip firm. “Well nice to meet you,” She said, “Are you the father? I have yet to meet him.” She looked between the two of them, still smiling. Leon paled fast, looking at Chris like he was scared he’d run off. “I am,” Chris played along, smiling at the woman, “Finally found time to come to one of the appointments.” He said. The woman nodded, “Some fathers don’t come to any, so good for you Mr. Redfield.” She turned away from the two of them to set down what she’d brought in on the table against the wall. Chris caught Leon’s eye and saw the utter relief that bled through him. He gave Chris an appreciative look. Maybe he didn’t want to explain his relationship to Chris, or maybe he was just happy that Chris hadn’t up and ran or gotten mad at the idea that he and Leon were together. “Mr. Kennedy, I think you know the drill by now. We don’t need to start looking into a Tdap vaccination for a couple more months, but have you felt any movement yet?” She asked, turning back to look at them. Her hair was up in a bun and she had put on a pair of gloves after washing her hands on the sink next to her. “None yet.” Leon said. The woman nodded. “You should start feeling that soon. We’ll start by checking for the baby’s heartbeat. Could you pull your shirt up for me and lay back?” She asked, moving over to the machine to the side that Chris hadn’t noticed. Leon did as he was asked, pulling his shirt up. He tried to shift around so he could lay back and struggled a bit, just seeming awkward on the paper lined bed. Chris stepped close, offering Leon a hand. “Let me help.” He said, Leon easily taking his hand and letting Chris help him lay back. Leon looked up at Chris and Chris helped adjust his shirt over the baby bump again. It was the first time Chris had seen his stomach properly, could see all the little stretch marks along the bottom of the bump. Chris wanted to touch them, soothe over them, but kept his hands to himself. “Thanks.” Leon said, looking far more comfortable. The woman sat down in a little seat next to Leon, gloves on her hands. “So I know you know how this goes, but just so we’re on the same page, I’ll be putting this gel on your stomach,” She held up a little tube, “And then we can listen for the heartbeat. And just so dad knows,” She turned to Chris, “This isn’t an ultrasound. We’re just using an electronic monitor.” Chris nodded, “Understood.” He said. The woman put some of the gel on Leon’s stomach and spread it gently. Chris wormed his hand into Leon’s, giving him a chance to shake Chris off if he wanted. But Leon took the hand, squeezing it tight. Chris could scent how excited he was, scent sweet and bright. He wasn’t trying to hide it at all. The woman pressed a little stick connected to the monitor against Leon’s stomach, taking a few seconds to feel around before a steady thump sound came from the machine. “There we go,” The woman said, moving the stick a little until the thump was a little clearer, “You’ve got a great heartbeat here for the baby, Mr. Kennedy.” She waited a few moments, moving the stick here and there, taking a few moments to count to herself, before she pulled it away and grabbed a little towel she’d prepared, wiping the gel off. “By your height and weight everything is on track, properly in all her percentiles for size,” She took off the plastic she’d put on the stick, throwing it away with her gloves, “And with that heartbeat it seems like she’s in great health.” “That’s good to hear.” Leon said, genuinely sounding relieved as the words came out breathy. He squeezed Chris’ hand some more and Chris squeezed back. Chris couldn’t imagine how scary this could be for Leon, with everything that had brought him here and how much he’d been struggling with his ex. “We do still have some prenatal tests to do,” She said, washing her hands in the little sink in the room, “Now you don’t have to do them, but I would really recommend them Mr. Kennedy.” “Is it the one with the ultrasound and the needle?” Leon asked, cringing. She turned to him, putting on a new set of gloves. Chris watched her do it with such ease, a practiced motion. She smelt like the latex of the gloves, her own scent masked by all the equipment she was wearing. “It would be, I’d also have someone in to take some blood for a blood test, but those results would take about a week to come in.” Leon frowned. “What are these tests for?” Chris asked, butting in. Playing the part of a concerned father. “The prenatal tests are to check for the potential of disabilities upon birth,” The woman said, “It tends to be down syndrome that we’re looking for, but other physical disabilities screened for with the prenatal tests also,” She gave Chris and Leon both her full attention, looking between them while she talked, “We’d be taking some amniotic fluid from Mr. Kennedy with the guidance of an ultrasound.” Chris shared a look with Leon. It was a good idea to do the tests, but it was Leon’s decision. Chris would keep his opinion to himself, just looking at Leon, waiting for his answer. Leon sighed. “Yeah, I’ll do it.” He said, laying his head back down on the table, paper crumpling underneath. “Fantastic, let me go grab the equipment I need. While I’m out, I’ll have someone in to take a small blood sample,” She stood up, turning to go ahead and step out of the room. “I’ll be right back.” And then she stepped out. There was a moment of quiet in the room before Leon squeezed Chris’ hand, looking up at him. Chris looked down, flashing Leon a smile. “Thanks.” Leon said. “For what?” Chris gave a small laugh, giddy to be so close to Leon, sharing his space, holding his hand. Leon wiggled onto his side some, turning towards Chris. “You’re being really calm about all this,” He laughed a little, “I appreciate it a lot. It’s nice having someone with me for this.” Chris leaned in closer, greedily taking in more of Leon’s scent. He watched Leon do the same thing, taking in Chris’ scent with him so close. There was a knock on the door and Leon turned back over languidly to get comfortable on the bed. Another woman came in with a few things that Chris recognized as the little test tubes to put blood in. She gave them the run down of what she was going to do and then prepped Leon’s arm with the alcohol wipe before starting. It was quiet while she took the blood, Leon hanging in through it. It made sense that blood wouldn’t phase him granted what he’d been through that Chris had read in the Kennedy Report, but Chris wouldn’t have taunted him if he did pale a little at the sight of his own blood. They all had their moments, Chris had definitely gotten light headed a few times at meager cuts. The woman finished, patched up Leon’s arm and was out. Chris kept a hold on Leon’s hand and Leon titled his head toward Chris tiredly, like he would have laid his head on Chris’ shoulder were he closer. Chris squeezed Leon’s hand and his eyes flickered up to meet Chris’. “You hanging in there?” Chris asked. Leon gave a quick nod. “Yeah. This just wears me out,” He sighed, “And the next part is always stressful.” Their main lady came back in before Chris had a chance to comfort Leon, stepping in with a few plastic bags full of medical supplies. “I forgot to ask what way you’d like to do this,” She said, setting down the tools on a little table next to the bed Leon was laid back on still, “Would you want to do this transcervical or transabdominal?” She asked. Leon made a face, and both of those options went over Chris’ head. “Abdominal.” He answered. The woman nodded. “We’ll still want to do a pelvic exam at the end though.” She said. Chris just watched her and Leon talk back and forth as he agreed to the exam. He was focused on the woman undoing some of the little baggies, having set some aside when Leon answered. She had rinsed her hands again and put new gloves on and was setting everything out clinically. The needle she was pulling out was wicked, it honestly made Chris a little nervous to see. Leon was clearly trying to keep his eyes off of it too, kept intermittently squeezing Chris’ hand. His hand was getting clammy, the pleasantness of his scent starting to slip to blatant discomfort. The woman talked to Leon the whole time she readied everything, keeping a steady flow of conversation, distracting him from the needle as she gestured with her free hand to keep his eyes busy. She readied a machine for the ultrasound, put more gel on his belly and started looking around with another little stick. “I’m just going to look for a nice space to put the needle so we don’t hurt little Kennedy here,” She said, pointing up at the screen for the both of them to see, “Right here seems great. She’s curled away from this spot, giving me a perfect area to take some amniotic fluid from.” She dropped her hand to grab the needle holding it up. “This should just be a pinch and some pressure, and it’ll be over before you know it.” She said, catching how Leon’s breath picked up. Chris moved closer to Leon, leaning into him, giving Leon his shoulder to press up against. Leon didn’t respond, just watched the needle warily. She pressed it in carefully and Chris couldn’t help but look away, looking between Leon and the little screen. The woman was watching it too, being careful where she moved the needle. Leon had stopped watching her and was instead staring at the ceiling with a sick look on his face. Chris rested a hand on Leon’s forehead, brushing back his bangs. Leon looked at him, looking a little more present for a moment at Chris’ touch. It was surprising that this got to Leon more than the blood did. But maybe there was more to it, maybe the mini procedure was dredging up some uncomfortable memories. Chris didn’t ask, didn’t plan to, and just kept a cool hand on Leon’s forehead. “Done!” The woman said, turning off the machine and setting aside the slightly full needle. She placed a bandaid over the spot on Leon’s stomach and wiped off the gel again. Leon tugged his shirt back down haphazardly, still looking a little sick. “Good job, Mr. Kennedy,” She said, patting his shin as she moved to put away her things. “We still need to do the pelvic exam, are you ready? I just need you to undress from the waist down please.” She said. Leon froze up, and Chris had a feeling they were thinking similar things. “I’m sorry,” Chris spoke up, brushing back Leon’s bangs one more time before he stood up, “I need to use the restroom, do you mind if I step out for a moment?” “Not at all, just follow the signs and you’ll find it. Would you like me to postpone the exam until you’re back?” “No, it’s fine if you go ahead. I’ll be back.” He said, sending both Leon and the woman a quick smile before stepping out. And now he just needed to stall some. He did actually go to the restroom and then just stand in there awkwardly. Check his phone, fix his hair in the mirror. He felt that enough time had passed after a few minutes and went back to their room, glad that he remembered where it was. He knocked on the door and was let in, Leon sitting up on the bed and the woman writing something down. “Back just in time for the wrap up,” She said, gesturing for Chris to sit down. “So Mr. Kennedy, you’re looking great. You and your baby are in all the proper percentiles and seem in good health. You’ll get the results of the tests within the next week, and depending on the results you’ll either receive a phone call or email. But that being said, you’re all set for today. If you’ll just pass by the front desk on the way out, they’ll get your next appointment set up for you.” “Thank you.” Leon said back simply, looking tired but pleased all the same. Chris nodded and gave his thanks as well, and then the woman was leaving and letting them know they were free to go. They went through the office to leave and found their way back to Chris’ car, Chris lending Leon a hand getting up into his seat. He really was worn down, closing his eyes the moment he was buckled in. His scent was so worn down but still sweet, citrussy, just tired and a little bland. Chris got in his seat and started up the car, heading back to their apartment building. “Thanks again.” Leon said quietly next to Chris. Chris glanced at him, at his still closed eyes but the pleasant little smile on his face. “Of course, thanks for trusting me to take you. I’m glad I could be there for you.” Chris said. Leon cracked an eye open and Chris sent him a smile now that he could see it. “I really need to repay you somehow,” Leon sighed, then reached a hand over the console between their seats to rest a hand on Chris’ arm, “You keep doing a lot for me. Even going along with it when the nurse got confused. Other people would get mad over that.” He let go of Chris’ arm and Chris missed the weight. “It wasn’t any problem. It can be fun to play domestic every once in a while.” He laughed, and Leon laughed with him. There was quiet in the car and it was so comfortable that Chris forgot that Leon was still a fairly new part of his life. They got back to their apartment building and Chris walked up with Leon, walking to their doors. Leon stopped Chris before Chris got to start his goodbyes, crossing his arms over his baby bump. “I really want to tell you how much I appreciate what you did today,” Leon started, struggling to make eye contact with Chris, “Those appointments can be rough to go to alone. They ask a lot of questions and I can’t give a lot of answers. So having you there, and you adjusting to and going along with what they said, and just being there for me, it meant a lot. It made this my first positive appointment.” Chris took a second to take all that in, heart clenching in his chest. A wobbly smile spread over his face and he gently gathered Leon into a hug, feeling Leon relax against him and inhale his scent. “You’re incredibly welcome. I’m glad I could help,” He let go of Leon and Leon took a step back, a smile spread over his face, “I’ll take you to your next one too if you’d like.” Leon tucked his arms back around himself, looking Chris over, “I’d really appreciate it,” He smiled. There was quiet between them and Chris worried that his scent would give away just how happy he was. “See you tomorrow Chris, thanks again.” Leon finally said his goodbye as he went went to walk over to his own door. “See you.” Chris responded back simply, feeling giddy. He opened his door and stepped in, sending Leon a quick wave before he closed his door. He leaned back against the door as it closed, taking a deep breath, relishing in the last lingering bits of citrus that clung to his nose.
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Chris and Leon got closer as time passed, to the point that Chris felt they couldn’t get any closer without crossing a boundary. But somehow their relationship kept growing and evolving. They cooked and ate meals together in Chris’ apartment, watched movies and TV, and went out together for groceries and other errands. Really, the only thing they didn’t do together was sleep in the same bed. On a few occasions Chris wanted to offer Leon said bed when it got late while watching something together. Leon got worn down fast, he was pregnant after all, and Chris was always happy to slow down and take a break when they were out, or just let Leon take a nap while he was in Chris’ apartment. But offering his bed didn’t really seem like a boundary Chris should cross just yet. Maybe they were getting more romantic as time passed, maybe neither of them pointed it out, but they didn’t shy away from it either. It was all just touches, Leon leaning back into Chris on the couch, grabbing his hand out at the store. They hadn’t officially asked each other out but their scents were mingled enough by now that Chris wouldn’t be surprised if people thought they were together. It was mostly a hesitant, unspoken mutual attraction. And things stayed that way, and Chris was content. The last thing Chris wanted to do was stress Leon out so fresh after his last relationship, pregnant with his ex’s child. He’d let Leon lead, let Leon cross the boundaries at the pace he wanted. Chris was happy to wait, and he hoped that Leon knew that. Chris went into Leon’s apartment a few more times since the first time he’d seen it. He had gotten Leon a few knickknacks to make the place feel warmer and was happy to see them slowly filling up the space, making it look more lived in. A nice little plant was bought to bring some life to the gray living room, a big soft blanket gifted after Leon complained about being cold—Chris had learned that Leon got paid a barely above poverty level paycheck, justified by his organization paying for his apartment and medical care—a couple of other little silly things that Chris had watched Leon smile and laugh over. One of the silly things that Chris kept buying for Leon were baby plushies for little Kennedy, and it made his heart melt to see them stacked neatly on Leon’s bedside table whenever he got a glimpse inside his room. He was trying to guess what animal was Leon’s favorite by gifting him the stuffed animals, and so far he’d been given all “not this one”s. No luck on the favorite animal yet. All of that to say Chris was very happy, very content, and technically off the dating market if things kept going this well. Leon had fallen asleep again on his couch, and credits were rolling on the movie he insisted he could stay awake for. Chris watched him fondly for a moment, watching the rise and fall of his chest, of his baby bump. “Leon,” Chris called gently, reaching across the short distance of the couch to nudge Leon’s leg. He was laying along the couch, knees tucked up, arms crossed over his chest. He didn’t stir, snored softly in his sleep. “Leon, movie’s over.” He shook Leon’s leg again carefully. Leon stirred, rubbing at his eyes before he stretched out his arms in front of himself. Instead of opening his eyes he shifted to lay on his side, huffing out a breath of air. “Do you wanna just sleep on the couch? I can get you a blanket.” Chris offered. He knew the couch hurt Leon’s sensitive back with how pregnant he was. Although, Chris had a suspicion at this point that Leon just had a shitty mattress he couldn’t afford to upgrade and blamed his back pain on Chris’ couch. Leon finally opened an eye again, looking at Chris blearily. He pushed himself up with a groan, holding his baby bump. “No,” He mumbled sleepily, haphazardly brushing wild bangs out of his face, “I’ll go home, sorry.” He said, trying to stand. He really was pregnant, Chris underestimated how much time had passed as he watched Leon struggle a little to stand. He was maybe seven months along by now, but especially with how tired Leon was this late at night he struggled sometimes. Or in the mornings, Chris had taken it upon himself to help Leon with his shoes a few times when it seemed like Leon was going to keel over from exhaustion if he bent over. Leon took the hand Chris offered to help him off the couch, letting himself be pulled to his feet. He staggered, and Chris steadied him with a hand on his arm. Leon muttered something, maybe a quiet thanks, and Chris didn’t press him to repeat it. Leon hobbled over to the door, clearly trying to find where he’d put his shoes, his jacket. Chris grabbed both items, set down neatly by the couch. “Here.” Chris said, coming over to put the shoes down in front of Leon. They were just little slide ons this time, so Leon slipped them on with a hand to steady himself on the wall. Leon took his jacket form Chris and pulled it on, holding it tightly around himself. He always seemed cold lately, or maybe he was normally cold and this was just Chris finally noticing. Either way, he got himself ready to go, and Chris waited patiently for him to be gathered enough to walk the short way over to his own door. Leon turned to Chris, still looking half asleep but at least his eyes were open. He gestured for Chris to come close and Chris went, walking over. “Do you need anything else?” Chris asked, looking Leon over to see if he had everything. Leon just gestured again and Chris moved even closer, a curious smile spreading over his face. Leon looped his arms around Chris’ shoulders, pulling Chris down just a bit to cover their meager height difference. He pressed a kiss to Chris’ cheek, soft and slow from how tired he was. Chris felt dazed when Leon pulled back, felt giddy and floaty. His cheek was on fire. “Thanks,” Leon said casually, yawning as he pulled away. His scent lingered against Chris’ skin from just the brief brush past him, making him feel pleasantly dazed, “I’ll see you tomorrow.” He gave Chris a tired smile, a hand lingering on Chris’ arm before he went to open the door for himself. “See you tomorrow.” Chris said back, sounding as dazed as he felt. Leon cast another smile over his shoulder at Chris before he was walking back to his apartment, door closing behind him. Chris put on his pajamas, brushed his teeth, washed his face in a haze. A pleased, content, giddy haze. Leon’s scent was stuck on his face and Chris did what he could to keep the scent on his skin for as long as he could. The kiss wasn’t directly acknowledged for days, but Leon was more affectionate with Chris. A few more little chaste kisses were exchanged and every time Chris’ heart felt like it would beat out of his chest. Chris happily accepted them, maybe returned a few, and he felt so much lighter than he had in a while. Everything was going so well. Chris couldn’t ask for anything better, and this development between them being organic, being pushed along by Leon’s own choice? It made Chris lightheaded with glee. Chris kept letting Leon set the pace, and they continued to go to work, come home, eat together or watch something, then separate for the night to sleep. Chris was starting to think they spent more time together than separate, their time at work aside. When they were free and not sleeping, they were together. Things were peaceful and light. Chris was happy. Until Chris woke up with a start in the middle of the night. It wasn’t a crazy occurrence, normally he just turned over onto his side, flipped his pillow so it was nice and cool again, and went back to sleep. But this time… something was sitting heavy in Chris’ chest, keeping him awake even after he’d completed his little fall back asleep ritual. A unique concern was weighing on him, kept him from comfortably closing his eyes. He needed to see, to be aware. He wondered if maybe he was having a very, very minor PTSD episode. But something different than what he’d come to know as his episodes… He tried to close his eyes and rest despite the worry, turning onto his side. He had to be up early, he wanted to sleep, wanted to keep his sleep schedule in line. To think he was finally getting it back on track too. Chris was half asleep again, after some tossing and turning, when a muffled scream racketed through wall behind him. Shrill, agonized. Chris sat up in a panic, heart beating out of his chest. He pushed the covers off of himself, body moving faster than his brain, and was out of his room in a second. He opened his door, hands struggling with the locks as his brain slowly caught up with his body, finally understood. Fuck, Leon. Chris almost selfishly wished that it was someone else screaming, a neighbor above or below him. But any time a sound came from Leon’s apartment Chris could hear it, knew it was Leon. If Leon dropped something in his kitchen Chris texted and asked if he needed help cleaning broken glass, if Leon stumbled in his bedroom Chris asked if he’d just woken up. Chris knew it was Leon. He’d never heard him so agonized before, the shrill scream so disconnected from the person Chris knew. Chris hurried out onto the balcony, the chill outside waking him up, clearing his head some. Chris tried the doorknob on Leon’s door only for it to click and jam in his hand, noticing the weird bend to it after he let go. The door was splintered around the lock, and Chris pushed the it open with ease, swinging and groaning on its hinges. Smoke and hot ash hit Chris’ nose as he stepped into the small living room, the uncomfortably familiar scent of fireworks freshly lit, right before they’re set off. “Leon!” Chris called, taking in the absolute destruction in the room. Knicknacks that had slowly been collected through the weeks were crushed or broken, Leon’s couch pushed to the side, the TV stand that never held a TV half splintered apart. “Chris!” The voice was watery, panicked, and Chris pushed his way down the hall, turning right into the bedroom, almost tripping on a kicked up rug. It was dark, Chris was barely able to make out the silhouette of someone leaned over another person down on the floor. Chris walked in before the bigger person could turn around, grabbing the back of his shirt by the collar and pulling hard. The man stumbled, and Chris put himself between Leon’s ex and Leon himself. Leon’s scent was more bitter than ever, like something had rotted over. Chris could hear him panting, breathing hard, sobbing behind him. Chris wanted to turn around and tend to him, gather him in his arms, figure out what was wrong and get him help. But he needed to get Krauser out first. Chris didn’t even have anything to say, just stood there, glared daggers at Leon’s ex. Krauser looked at Chris before his attention was down to the floor, down to Leon. “Got your white knight to defend you? What did you do to lead him on?” Krauser sneered, not missing a beat, not at all shocked at seeing Chris in front of him. Leon made a heartbreaking whine, and Chris could practically feel how he shrunk behind Chris’ bulk to hide from Krauser. “I never—” weakly. “You did!” Krauser bit back, looking nothing short of enraged over a quarrel Chris was still struggling to understand. “You need to leave or I’m calling the cops.” Chris spoke up, stepping forward to pull Krauser’s eyes away from Leon. The same threat he’d made when he met Krauser before, and he hoped it worked this time. He wanted to check on Leon, needed to as soon as possible. He could smell the bitterness in his scent so clearly, it rolled off of him in waves. He smelled hurt, scared, and Chris needed to get him somewhere safe now. “He’d never let you call them.” Krauser said, grossly confident. He strode forward, as if Chris would just let him walk past him right back to Leon. Chris caught him by the shoulder, pushing him back. “If you think I won’t call the cops then I’ll make you leave.” Chris said. Krauser frowned. His scent was so strong, it clashed with the citrus of Leon’s. Chris could see it maybe having meshed well at some point, but something was inherently wrong with how the scents melded now. “He won’t stay with you,” Krauser said, quietly, voice gravelly with the low tone. Talking to Chris like Chris was delusional, like he was someone he had to talk down and reason with. “He’ll fuck you and leave, I’ve experienced it first hand,” Krauser sneered past Chris, and Chris fumed, floored that he had even said that. The room was still so dark, but with how Krauser was half in the hallway now some light hit the side of him, lit up half his face. “Let me take him off your hands, you don’t have to get hurt too,” He said, stepping forward, still sounding like he was bartering. Chris was more in shock than anything, hearing the way he was talking about Leon like he was jumping from person to person to break hearts. Maybe Krauser was unaware of just how close him and Leon were now, had made gross, shallow assumptions about what they were to one another. “He was mine first anyways.” Krauser said, voice low, and Chris finally felt like he was back in his own body, didn’t even realize how strange he had felt until he could feel his feet on the ground again, could clench and unclench his fists. He felt a hand on the bottom of his pajamas pants, gripping hard, shaking. He didn’t even know when Leon had reached out to him, but he had him in a vice grip now. “Option to call the cops is still on the table, unless you really want me to force you out myself. I promise the cops would be kinder.” Chris tried for a final time. Krauser frowned hard enough that the scars down his face warped grotesquely, mutating his face into something horrific. The minute Krauser took the first swing, Chris was virtually blacked out and moving on instinct. He felt things, reacted to them, but by the time he was back in his own head he only had the bruises to show for what had happened, the ache in his knuckles, and none of the memory. He was half down the hall when he finally reoriented himself, Krauser down on the ground in front of him breathing hard. He had a nasty bruise under his right eye, and a new cut to adorn his face on the left side. Part of Chris’ hand was dripping red, not sure where the blood was coming from. If it was his or Krauser’s. Chris panted, took a staggered step back. And then lurched forward, grabbing Krauser by the collar. He pulled him towards the front of the apartment, to the still busted open door. Krauser stumbled after him, grabbing at Chris’ rough hand as if he could pry it off. His grip was weak. Chris pushed the door open and dragged Krauser out, roughly shoving him out onto the balcony, cold wind making him shiver. “Come back,” Chris started, breathing hard, “And I’ll fucking kill you.” He slammed the door, knowing it wouldn’t lock. Knowing Krauser wouldn’t come back in if he didn’t want to get his ass handed to him again. Chris took a minute to breath, recovering from the adrenaline that was making blood rush in his ears. He turned, walking back down the hall as he remembered his reason for being here, remembered what he had fought for. “Leon.” Chris called breathlessly, rounding the corner to look into the dark bedroom. “Chris.” Leon said weakly, shakily, and Chris saw his barely visible figure reach up to Chris in the dark of his destroyed bedroom. Chris hurried over, kneeling down next to Leon, running gentle hands over him. “Oh my God,” Chris said, the situation hitting him again, “Are you okay? Do we need to call someone?” He held Leon’s outstretched arm, the other one tucked close to Leon’s chest. Maybe protecting his stomach? Chris wasn’t sure, but he didn’t push. Not right this minute. Leon grabbed Chris’ hand in a death grip, leaning into his chest. He was shaking hard, sniffling and whining. His scent almost made Chris sick with how distressed it was. Like fruit rotted over and burnt. “Want out,” He sniffled, choking on the words, “I can’t be in here, Chris, please.” He tried to drag himself into Chris’ arms, struggling with how bad he was shaking. Chris pulled him close, being careful with him. “We can go to my apartment, is that okay?” Chris asked, keeping his voice quiet. He was panicking a little, anxiety high in the face of Leon being hurt. But he needed to be gentle and quiet for Leon’s sake. Leon pushed his face against Chris’ neck, calming down his quick breathing. He was breathing Chris’ scent in, the rest of the room still smelling like sparks. Leon nodded in response, fast and urgent, gripping the back of Chris’ shirt with the arm that he wasn’t cradling close to himself as if Chris was a lifeline. “Okay, I’ll get you over there,” Chris said, slowly standing and helping Leon up with him. Leon let out a pained groan as he stood, leaning most of his weight onto Chris. “You’re okay, we’ll get you in my apartment and we’ll get you sorted.” Chris soothed. Leon nodded, sniffling into Chris’ neck, shaky on his own feet. If Leon could walk then Chris was going to let him, happy to carry all of the weight Leon leant on him. Chris pried Leon off of himself in the living room, insisting that he just needed to check the balcony, make sure it was safe and clear. The reassurance that it would take just seconds didn’t help and Leon still cried, face wet with tears when Chris sat him down on the couch to be able to peek out the door into the balcony. He stepped out and looked around, listened carefully. No sign of Krauser in the least. Chris came back into the apartment, quick to hurry back to Leon when he stretched out his arm again to grab Chris, pull him near again. Chris gave Leon a moment to scent him, hiccupping while he smeared hot tears against Chris’ neck trying to douse himself in his scent. It was a newer action that took Chris by surprise, given their still budding relationship, it was a more intimate gesture. It made Chris’ heart tighten knowing that Leon was seeking comfort in Chris’ scent, that he trusted him that much. “We can go to my apartment now.” Chris reminded, Leon too distracted whining and scenting and crying. He pulled back with a sniffle, looking miserable when he looked up at Chris. He just nodded, wrapping his arm around Chris’ neck to let him help him stand again. He let out another pained little sound, over what exactly, Chris wasn’t sure. He bit his worry down, the anxiety making his chest tight. He guided Leon into his apartment, making sure to lock the door behind himself. Leon practically collapsed the minute they stepped in, dissolving into a puddle of tears and sad omega in Chris’ landing. He cried harder than he had been before, Chris carefully trying to get him on the ground and not just fall down. “Hey, it’s okay, you’re okay now,” Chris tried, getting Leon down finally so he could sit on the floor. Leon used one hand to hold himself up, head tipped forward so tear soaked bangs covered his face. He shook his head, sniffling, crying, as if arguing that things were in fact not okay. “Calm down Leon,” Chris said softly when Leon’s breath hitched, and Leon took a long breath in before letting it out, “Can I get you somewhere comfortable? Do you want the couch?” Chris asked. Leon almost cried harder and Chris floundered. “No,” Leon whined, drawling out the word, “Hurts my back,” He took a few quick breaths in before finally letting them go in one big exhale, “Bed, please? Please.” He cried, looking at Chris again, eyebrows furrowed and expression desperate. This was new too, and a moment of worry hit Chris. “You can lay down in the guest bed if you want, or mine.” Chris offered. He reached out to brush back some of Leon’s bangs, the way Leon jolted away from the gentle touch at first breaking his heart. “Yours.” Leon breathed, leaning into Chris’ hand like a scared animal seeking out care. “It’s gonna smell a lot like me,” Chris warned. He knew Leon liked his scent but didn’t want him overwhelmed by it in his current state, “Are you sure you don’t want the guest bed.” “Chris,” Leon whined as if Chris had physically hurt him, “I like yo—our scent,” He muttered, words coming out jumbled and breathy, “It’s good, like… like… Cinnamon? Root beer,” Chris just listened, not used to people naming his scent at all, “Maybe a campfire, sitting around it in the woods.” He sounded a little out of it, like a feverish man reciting hallucinations. “Okay,” Chris said, “We can do my bed then, and you can relax and calm down and then we can get help.” He held Leon’s face, letting the man lean into the touch. “Wait—” Leon’s breath hitched, “Who would we—what help,” He stammered, not quite looking at Chris as the gears in his head clearly turned, “We can’t go to the cops, Chris, I—I know this was bad but—” “Breath,” Chris cut Leon off, and the omega sucked in a breath, letting out a shaky one, “We need to get you help, I promise I’ll let you decide what to do about Krauser later.” Truthfully he did just want to call the cops and call it a day, but he worried about how Leon would react to that granted the state he was in right now. “Me?” Leon asked, looking at Chris again, looking dazed. “You’re hurt, aren’t you?” Chris said gently, trying to shake Leon out of his shock, “We need to get you looked at.” Leon shifted where he was sat on the floor, “M’okay—” He sniffled, and Chris frowned at him, “I promise, m’fine, I sprained my wrist.” Leon held out the arm he’d been holding so close to his stomach. Chris reached out to take the offered hand, feel over his wrist to make sure he was okay. Leon jolted away when Chris’ fingertips brushed the skin of his hand, breath hitching. “It’s okay,” Chris said, finally taking a moment to let out some more of his scent, “I’m just checking Leon.” Leon went a little limp under the scent, finally letting Chris hold his hand. The way Leon was holding the arm out was stiff, and Chris was worried now that he could really see how careful Leon was with it. He ran his hand over Leon’s wrist, and the most that happened was that Leon’s scent dampened with pain. It seemed alright, until Chris ran his hand slightly further up Leon’s arm and he gasped. Chris let go and Leon pulled his arm close to himself again, bringing his other arm up to guard it. Chris looked up at Leon’s face, alarmed, and Leon looked mortified with how he stared back. “He didn’t—” His breath hitched, like he was about to panic, “He didn’t mean to, he di—didn’t… It was my fault, I pulled away and—” Leon stopped, sucking in another breath, clearly fighting to keep himself together. “Leon, what’s really wrong.” Chris asked, tone stern. Leon shrunk away from him and Chris immediately softened, reaching a hand out to rest carefully on Leon’s knee. Leon let him, shivering under the caring touch. “Arm,” He stammered, “Fractured,” He finished. Chris just nodded, reaching out to Leon again. Leon handed out his arm once more, looking hesitant and nervous. Chris held his arm gently, running as careful hands over it as he could. He could tell when his hand went over the fracture, the way Leon sucked in another breath of air. “He really didn’t mean to,” Leon said again, unprompted, “He wou—wouldn’t hurt me, not on purpose,” His voice was quiet. Chris just glanced up at him, still looking over his arm. He didn’t say anything, so Leon kept talking. He didn’t even know how to really feel. Of course he was mad, pissed. He was infuriated that the person that Leon still had some sort of feelings for had hurt him like this. But Leon was so distraught, if Chris reacted angrily at all there was no way he wouldn’t scare or upset Leon. “He didn’t… he didn’t mean what he said either,” Leon said, more like he was trying to convince himself, “I wouldn’t do that to you, and he has to know I never… I wasn’t—” Leon cut himself off, voice getting warbly and watery. Chris looked up again to see fresh tears in Leon’s eyes, and the omega reached up to wipe at them with his good hand. “Please don’t th—think I’m trying to use you for something,” Leon said, shaking his head like he could just shake out the memory of what had been said, “I can’t believe he’d think I—I used him. Chris—” Leon grabbed Chris, grip bruising. “I loved him, why would he think th—at.” He cried harder, breaking down again, and Chris’ heart ached. He moved closer to Leon, cautiously gathering the man into his arms. Leon leaned into him and that was all the approval Chris needed to hold Leon, run a hand up and down his heaving back. He did what he could not to disturb his fractured arm, knowing that he’d need to really get Leon help once he was calmed down to deal with that. Chris’ shoulder was soaked by the time Leon pulled back, sniffling and still choking down tears. “I don’t think he believes what he said,” Chris finally spoke up, and Leon just moved closer to him again, scenting him tiredly, “I think he was just trying to hurt you, and trying to ward me away from you.” Leon nuzzled Chris, hiccupping softly. “Y’think so?” He slurred out, sounding out of it again. He had to be exhausted, that’s all, completely worn out and stressed and overwrought. “I do,” Chris said, making sure to give Leon as much of his scent as he could manage, “And I don’t think you’d do something like that to me.” Leon let out a strained breath of air. “I wouldn’t.” He said quietly, words watery. “I know,” Chris responded, holding Leon close. He could feel Leon’s baby bump, just how pregnant he was. It worried Chris that he was in such a state so far into his pregnancy. So wound up, so hurt. It made him question just how true Leon’s statements about Krauser never meaning to hurt him were if he was pulling Leon around while he was this pregnant. If he had ruined Leon’s apartment like that. “I do need to call EMTs to come check on you.” Chris said, and Leon whined, gripping Chris hard with his good hand. “Can we—I don’t want to—would you c—call..,” He hesitated, thinking, “Hunnigan. Hunnigan, call Hunnigan.” Leon said. “I’d need her number.” “I’ll g—give you it.” Chris agreed, and the next few minutes were spent with Chris calming Leon until he was stable enough to remember the phone number to give Chris. Chris called her, briefly filled her in on the situation, gave her his address, and she promised that she was on her way. “Do you want to get to that bed now?” Chris asked, still holding Leon. “Please.” Leon responded, voice shot from all the crying and keening he’d done tonight. Chris helped Leon into his room, a slow, unsteady process as Leon had a hard time putting one foot in front of the other. The minute he got partially on the bed he melted down onto it like he was suddenly made of jello, looking a little dazed as he took in Chris’ heavy scent saturated into the blankets. Chris coaxed him into the middle of the bed instead of half off it, helping situate a pillow under his head. Chris pulled a blanket over Leon, watching him sink down into the bed. His bitter scent mellowed out quickly on Chris’ bed, and Chris almost preened watching his… sort of boyfriend relax so intensely. Leon peeked open an eye when Chris stood back up after pulling back from laying the blanket over him. He thought about Leon’s arm, deciding to make a quick splint for it while they waited for Hunnigan. He went to step out of the room for a second when Leon made a nervous sound, scent picking up uncomfortably. Chris turned back to the bed, seeing Leon peeking over his shoulder to look at Chris “Stay near?” Leon asked, sounding so worn down, voice still wobbly. Chris smiled softly. “I’m not leaving you, I just want to go grab some things.” He assured. Leon watched him warily, eyebrows furrowing. He went to sit up, looking a little heartbroken. “Did it get to you?” Leon asked, “I promise I’m not using you o—or anything.” His words were interrupted with a stressed sniffle. Chris floundered, hurrying over to the bedside. “I know Leon, it’s okay,” He soothed, trying to guide Leon to lay back down, “I’m coming right back, I just want to make a splint for your arm.” He said. Leon sniffled a little but took a long inhale. “Okay,” He said, finally letting Chris lay him down on the bed, pulling the blanket back over him, “Sorry.” He muttered, sounding absolutely miserable. “You’re okay,” Chris said, “I’m not upset.” He added on, watching Leon’s eyes flick up to look at him. Leon relaxed, didn’t say much more, and Chris got up to find something to splint Leon’s arm with. Chris left the room, throwing one more look over his shoulder at Leon before he went to search his kitchen for something to brace Leon’s arm with until they could get him help.
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Chris found a few unused skewers from when he used to barbecue with Claire to brace Leon’s fractured arm for now. He really wanted to get Leon to a proper hospital, but with how torn up and sensitive Leon was right now he worried that he’d have a mental breakdown that would end with him worse off than he would be if he just stayed where he was in Chris’ bed for a while. Leon let Chris hold his fractured arm, wrap it up with gauze from an old med kit he had with the skewers to keep his arm straight. Chris could only imagine how much pain Leon was in when he moved his arm wrong, but he was adamant on waiting for Hunnigan before anything else. And after Hunnigan, after they take Leon to a hospital—which Chris thinks is unavoidable with Hunnigan, Leon may just get to wait a little bit before he goes—what then? What after all of that? Will Leon go back into his apartment, pick up the pieces, get a new door and lock? It made Chris grit his teeth to think that Leon would hole himself up in that tiny apartment again, where he’d been attacked not once but twice now, and this time he’d been hurt. Chris shifted where he was sitting on the edge of the bed, running a hand repetitively through Leon’s hair. Leon was mostly asleep, eyes half closed and only fluttering open periodically. His breathing was slow, a small blessing. Chris was thankful that he wasn’t sniffling or hiccupping anymore. He was at ease, tired. Comforted by Chris sitting next to him, burrowed in Chris’ blankets. But this wouldn’t last, and Leon was going to be in harm’s way the minute he went back to his own apartment. The gears in Chris’ head turned, grinded against one another. “Leon?” Chris said gently, voice low, leaning down towards the man melted into his bed like a cat laying under warm sun rays. Leon’s eyes fluttered open again, and he barely looked up at Chris with a hum. “I think you should move in with me.” Chris said, still petting over Leon. Confusion crossed Leon’s face, pausing. He moved under the blankets, pulling them down some to turn and look at Chris better. “Why…?” He asked, sounding cautious. Like he was worried this was some sort of mean joke that Chris was setting up. “I can’t force you to of course, and it’s your decision,” Chris started, hoping to ease the way that the metaphorical fur on Leon’s back had risen, “But I think I’d feel a lot better if you were closer to me if something like this happened again. I want to know that I can be a barrier between you and anyone else before something happens instead of just rushing in at the last minute.” Leon was quiet, eyes flicking over Chris’ face. He looked stressed, and Chris felt guilty that he was the one who caused that stress. But he needed to offer this, or he’d never forgive himself for not stepping in when Leon needed somewhere safe and he could provide it. “Are you sure?” Leon asked, sitting up some on his good arm, “I mean, where would you have me stay? And I’m pregnant Chris, I can’t put that burden of caring for me and then eventually my baby on you.” Chris just leaned closer to Leon, trying to give him a reassuring smile. “I have a guest room that’s only used when Claire visits, I’d be happy to dress it up a little for you,” Chris smiled, and some of the stress in Leon’s face relaxed, “And caring for you wouldn’t be a burden, aren’t I already doing that here and there?” He laughed a little, trying to lighten the severity that Leon was clearly feeling. Leon smiled back, and a tightness in Chris’ chest unwound itself, “I guess,” He said with a small laugh of his own. His face fell some though, and he looked down at the blankets he was nestled down in for a second before looking up at Chris again. “Will you want me out when I have the baby though? I can’t imagine you want a screaming infant and me in your home.” He said, good hand gripping the sheets nervously. Chris almost couldn’t believe that Leon wasn’t getting it yet, wasn’t understanding Chris’ dedication to him. “I won’t kick you out. I’m more than willing to help you with the baby.” Leon looked over Chris’ face, unsure. “You mean that?” He asked quietly. If Chris could pull Leon close and hold him he would, but he didn’t want to hurt Leon’s arm or disrupt the way he’d burrowed under Chris’ blankets. “I do,” Chris said, tone as light as he could manage, “I really care about you Leon, I want to be able to help you, if you’ll let me.” Leon looked over his face, some sense of awe and maybe hesitation passing through his expression. He looked like he wanted to say something, give his thanks or maybe even ask more questions. But he went quiet, curling up into the bed exhaustedly. Chris couldn’t blame him if this was something he couldn’t handle talking about right this minute. Chris was more than happy to give him time, let him think and feel. Quiet fell over them after that, something comfortable and quiet. Chris sat on the edge of the bed, watching the doorway idly while Leon curled up on the bed. He felt like he had to protect Leon, guard him while he was trying to rest, but he knew that Krauser wouldn’t try to come back tonight. They stayed like that for only a handful of minutes before there was a knock on the door, quick raps on wood. Chris reassured Leon when he tensed up at the sound and went to open it. Standing right outside of his apartment, hair haphazardly pulled back into a bun, was Hunnigan. “Hello Chris.” She greeted breathlessly, pushing her way into the apartment. She followed her nose to Leon, which impressed Chris, and barreled her way into the bedroom. Chris stayed in the living room to give them both some space, listening to the quiet talking between the two. There was a little arguing, rising voices and scents but eventually everything settled back down. Chris waited until Hunnigan led out a tearful Leon, looking absolutely miserable as he let Hunnigan pull him out of Chris’ room. “We’re going to the hospital for his arm and the baby,” Hunnigan said, looking more put together now that she had her agent in her arms. “Could you please come with us?” She asked. Chris jumped at that, nodding quickly. “Of course. I can drive if you want.” He responded. A relieved look crossed over Hunnigan’s face and she nodded. “Please, I’d appreciate that.” She said. Then it was a matter of Chris finding his keys, throwing on some shoes, lending Leon a pair of sneakers, and herding everyone down to his car. He hoped Leon was feeling marginally better emotionally, but had a solid feeling that his current poor mood was caused by having to go to the hospital. Chris would have let him rest a bit more, but with Hunnigan here she made the final call. Chris drove down to the hospital and filled Hunnigan in more on the situation as he went. She asked him questions, he answered when Leon couldn’t, and that was the routine until Chris pulled up to the emergency room. He dropped Hunnigan and Leon off and promised to meet them inside while he found a place to park. He wasn’t as worried about Leon with Hunnigan here, knew the other alpha would keep him safe. So Chris didn’t feel like tearing his car door off to get to Leon while he was trying to park. Chris still hurried inside and was quickly directed to the room Leon had been put in. He stepped in with a doctor already there. Leon and Hunnigan looked up at Chris, Leon lighting up some as he walked in. “—fine. We’ll get you in a cast and get you back home with some pain medication.” The doctor said, moving around efficiently, taking notes. “And the baby?” Hunnigan asked as Chris came into the room to lean on the wall, out of the way. “We took a heartbeat and everything from Mr. Kennedy so the baby should be fine. If it would bring you peace of mind we can set up an ultrasound, but it would be a while until that’s ready.” The doctor looked over her notes, looking between Hunnigan and Leon. Hunnigan looked at Leon, and Chris watched the silent conversation between them play out. “That’s alright,” Leon said, voice rough and scratchy from all his crying and the yelling he had to have done with Krauser, “I just want to go home.” Leon said softly, and the doctor nodded. “Can’t blame you there,” She said, setting the clipboard down, “Just a minute Mr. Kennedy and we’ll get you out of here.” She stepped out of the room for a moment, whisked off into the busy hall and around the corner. Chris finally got to come next to the bed Leon was sitting on, standing next to Hunnigan who was seated on a chair next to the edge of the bed. Leon looked at Chris, quiet…expectant. Chris reached out, and Leon readily took the offered hand with his good arm. He pulled at Chris, dragging him over. Chris’ shoes squeaked on the floor, and soon he was in front of Leon with the man himself leaning forward over his pregnant stomach to rest his head on Chris’ chest. Leon was so drained, Chris could see it, could feel it. The exhaustion weighing Leon down permeated the air, bore down on his shoulders, painted the dark circles under his eyes. Chris held Leon around the shoulders, just letting him lean against Chris. His ear was right up against Chris’ heart, and he wondered if Leon could hear it. Chris peeked over at Hunnigan, catching her watching Leon with a careful eye. Her gaze flitted up to Chris, eyes soft. “Thank you.” Hunnigan said quietly, almost just mouthed it. Chris knew what she meant. For tonight, for helping him, being there for Leon. Maybe she was thanking him for more too but… he wouldn’t think too hard about it. Chris pulled back when a nurse came in, getting together everything to wrap Leon’s arm into a cast. They were quiet while Leon’s arm was wrapped. Leon looked upset, and Chris wasn’t sure for what exactly. Leon had a plethora of reasons to be mad afterall. They finished, signed more paperwork, and Leon and Hunnigan and Chris were all walking back to Chris’ car as the sun started rising. “I can start looking for a new apartment for you Leon.” Hunnigan spoke up eventually as they drove home, phone in hand. Leon looked over at Hunnigan, brows furrowed. “No, really it’s okay Hunnigan, I’m—” Leon started gesturing towards Chris but Hunnigan cut him off. “No, you’re not convincing me that you’re safe to stay there again, we’re moving you.” She started to type something in her phone. “Wait Hunnigan—” Hunnigan turned to Leon, gentle but firm, “You’re being moved, I’m going to send the request now.” A panicked look crossed Leon’s face, and he looked to Chris urgently, catching his eyes in the rearview mirror. “Um, Miss Hunnigan,” Chris said, and she turned her attention to Chris, thumbs pausing on her phone, “Leon is going to be moving in with me.” Hunnigan stared, then looked at Leon. Then back at Chris. “Oh,” She said simply, putting her phone down. She brought a hand to her chin, gears in her head turning, “And you both agree with this, yes?” She asked. They both nodded, Leon looking like he was holding his breath while Hunnigan considered it. “It would make it harder for Krauser to find you I suppose. I don’t think he’d assume that you’d move in with someone,” She mused. Then picked her phone up again. “I’ll send in an approval form for it. I’ll make sure it gets through,” Hunnigan said, typing away at something, “Leon. I love you, but this will be your last chance in this building. If something happens again you’re being aggressively relocated. Far from here.” She said, serious. Leon looked surprised, but nodded, “I understand, thank you for giving me this chance Hunnigan.” He said. Hunnigan softened, “Of course.” She said, and Chris saw the gentle look she gave Leon in the rearview mirror, the tilt to her head, before she went back to her phone. The car ride back was quiet, Leon fidgeting with his new arm cast. They pulled up to the apartment, and Hunnigan exchanged a few words with them before saying that she was going home and would reach out to them later in the morning on what the response to their living situation was, although she promised she’d make sure it was a yes. They said goodbye and watched her slip into a small silver car and drive off. The trip up to Chris’ apartment was quiet, Leon ignoring looking down the balcony at his own apartment, quickly stepping into Chris’ living room when he got the door open. They stood in the living room for a while, kitchen to their left. “So…” Chris started, eyeing Leon. Leon looked back at him, cradling his arm, looking exhausted. “So?” Leon asked back, shifting on his feet. “Do you want me to set up the guest room for you? Do you want me to start a bath or shower and we can cover your arm so you can clean up?” Chris asked. He didn’t know what to do now that they were technically here, now that Leon was supposed to be living with him. He was happy, of course, but he didn’t know how to go about this, what to do to make Leon comfortable after everything. Leon looked surprised. “A shower would be nice, do you have a bag we can cover this with?” Leon asked, gesturing to his arm. His voice was ragged, so worn down after everything. Chris nodded readily, hurrying to the kitchen. He grabbed one of the many extra grocery bags he had before walking back. “Here,” Chris said, handing it over to Leon, who took it, “Let’s get that shower going and then I can help you put that on.” Leon nodded, and Chris led him to the guest bathroom. He started the shower for Leon and took a moment to grab some of the spare shampoo and conditioner and soap he had. He brought it back right as the water started to warm, and showed Leon all of the things he had grabbed before setting them in the shower for Leon to use if he wanted. “Okay,” Chris put his hands together, turning back to Leon, “Are you comfortable with taking your shirt off so I can help you with the bag?” Chris asked. Leon fidgeted, but nodded. “Sure.” He said, grabbing the bottom of the pajama shirt he was still wearing. He pulled it off, and Chris looked to the side despite himself. It just felt rude to stare. The rustle of the plastic bag caught Chris’ attention, and he looked back at Leon, just making eye contact. “Are you still willing to help?” Leon asked, looking unsure. Chris grabbed the plastic bag gently, smiling at Leon. “Of course. Here, hold out your arm.” Leon did as Chris asked and Chris put the bag around Leon’s arm, tying it off at the top. He’d broken a few bones as a kid and the motion of wrapping a cast so it wouldn’t get wet was oddly familiar, even now. Leon pulled his arm back when Chris was done, checking where he’d tied it off. He looked up at Chris, and even with the dark circles under his eyes smiled. “Thanks Chris.” He said, and Chris smiled back, stepping out of the room to give Leon some privacy. Chris waited for Leon while he showered, just scrolling around on his phone. He was wondering if he should call off work tomorrow, take a day off to get Leon in order. They’d need to gather his things, to go shopping for stuff probably, to just get Leon comfortable and moved in. Chris heard the water turn off across the hall and put his phone down, waiting patiently. Leon came out with the wet plastic bag in hand, meandering around the kitchen for a second before he found the trashcan and threw it out. Chris got up and walked over to Leon when he stopped in the living room, looking around. He looked unsure, the furrow in his brow visible even with the minimal lighting in the dark room. “Hey, feeling cleaner?” Chris asked as he walked up. Leon had put his pajamas back on, was still cradling his arm. Leon gave Chris another smile. “A lot, thanks.” He said. Chris nodded. “I can get the guest room set up for you now, I washed the sheets after the last time someone came over so it’ll be nice and clean.” Chris said, gesturing over to the guest room. Leon hesitated, and it made Chris hesitate. “Oh, uhh—I was wondering if I could sleep with you tonight,” Leon said, “I don’t know how comfortable I am being alone after… everything.” He said earnestly, looking nervous. Chris’ heartbeat picked up nervously, but he nodded. “Of course, here,” Chris gently guided Leon over to his room instead, back to the mess of blankets that Leon had tucked into earlier, “Get comfortable, I’ll grab a couple more blankets and be back.” Chris said. They didn’t need anymore blankets, not in the slightest, but Chris wanted to give Leon a second to figure out how he wanted to sleep, and then Chris would take the leftover space. Even if he had to sleep on the end of the bed, if Leon didn’t want to be alone then Chris wasn’t gonna leave his side. Chris came back with two thin blankets so they didn’t overheat in bed, and Leon was curled up on the left side of the bed, the side Chris normally took. His pillow had to be saturated with his scent, but if that’s what made Leon feel comfortable Chris would let him be there—and be a little flattered by it. Leon’s eyes were closed, but he peaked one open when Chris came in. Chris came to Leon’s side of the bed to turn off the lap, but before he did that: “Are you comfortable?” Chris asked, whispering. Leon opened his other eye, looking up at Chris with a huff of breath. He nodded, looking so cozy in the blankets. “Thanks Chris.” He whispered back, closing his eyes again and getting comfortable. Chris smiled, turning off the lamp, letting the room go comfortably dark.