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This Hiding Place is Taken

Every morning after being taken out to relieve itself by its owner, the small dog named Barker would initiate a game of hide and seek. It was not an inconvenience for its owner, an elderly man, as Barker would always hide under the bed without fail. After being caught, the dog would crawl out and return itself to its owner with minimal coaxing or effort.

On that cool, crisp fall morning, however, the old man was especially tired after a night of lending a helping hand at his son’s business. He was hoping for a quick game with his beloved Barker just so he could return to his bed and capture a few extra moments of sleep.

His vision hazy without his glasses, the old man reached his hand under the bed. He waved his hand gently from side to side in hopes he would catch onto Barker’s harness. The old man smiled to himself as his fingers began to brush the scraggly fur. “Come on Barker, Daddy’s tired. Let’s get back to bed.” He cooed.

GRRRR

The old man’s half closed eyes shot open as he looked to his right. Beside him, Barker was in an offensive position, teeth bared. The dog’s eyes focused on whatever had taken its favorite hiding place.

Adventures at the Star Diner

Chapter One

Aidan Castillo’s voice travels through the microphone and out into the air of the Star Diner. His brown eyes scan the crowd that sways back and forth with the melody of his voice. Often with his performances, the world around Aidan drowns out. At the Star Diner, however, he only feels more alive and in the moment. He hears every whistle, every gasp whenever he reaches for a note that is seemingly out of his vocal register. To others, this could be distracting, but not for the young hopeful. As is usual during his vocal routines, his gaze rests on the form of Chase Nolan, the seasoned host of the diner. Chase’s brilliant blue eyes beam warmth and encouragement, nodding to Aidan. Aidan forms the last note in his voice, ending his performance with a smile and a roaring crowd.

“Thank you!” Aidan calls out to the patrons as he departs the stage. Fellow member of waitstaff, Gage Hanson approaches Aidan, smiling as she brings him into a warm hug. Though the hint of marijuana that clung to Gage’s clothes at one point made Aidan sick, it was now a bitter perfume that always causes a chuckle to escape his lips.

“You did great.” Gage encourages. Aidan lets out a breath, a bittersweet look on his face.

“Well, I could sing like Celine Dion and it wouldn’t matter to Howie.” He reminds her. Gage frowns as they think about Howard Carmichael. Howie was the famous, or infamous,  owner of Star. A media mogul, he was known for his eye for talent that helped him launch the careers of dozens in the entertainment industry. Comedians, actors, technical producers, but those familiar with him remember his humble beginnings as a purveyor of the best music and musicians.

Unfortunately for Aidan, he and Howie did not see eye to eye, which meant his chances of becoming a success were slim, to say the least. Aidan was sure that come the May Talent Showcase in only a month, he would not even be considered to present his vocal stylings. Gage shrugs.

As though speaking his name summoned the man, Aidan’s nose twitches at the odor of nicotine and he feels the owner’s lips press up to his ear. With his boss behind him, Aidan winces as a meaty hand digs into his shoulder. The vocalist’s eyes tear up but his glare remains forward, not wanting to give the man the satisfaction of seeing him sweat. “Beautiful performance Aidan. I will have my own performance in a few minutes, thanks for warming my mic up for me.” Howard pats the young man on the back a little too hard to exclaim his announcement before leaving, nodding silently to Gage. Gage rolls her eyes and flips off the departing man to his back.

“You know what would really piss off Howie, I can always enter ourselves as a duet. Howie is not going to leave me off the card, I get the most tips out of everyone here. The guests love me and so do most of the staff besides Beth. Howie knows better than anyone, the entertainment industry is forty percent talent, sixty percent politics.” Aidan can’t help but scoff. If only he knew this fact before traveling to New York back in September. “But in your favor, I am sure Howie will have to take into account that you are a Castillo.”

Gage is of course alluding to the fact that Aidan is the son of famed Spanish vocalist Adrian Castillo, who got his start in the industry at STAR. Gage is the only one that Aidan ever confided this fact to. Carmichael had deduced Aidan’s heritage himself and often held this fact over the young man. Despite some already knowing his secret, Aidan had been using the surname Castle so that others did not assume that he was using his name for success. After all, his father never approved of anything that he did.

Another reason Aidan was keeping his identity hidden is that Chase made it adamant that he is not a fan of “legacies” who joined the diner, dismissing them as talentless hacks who use their name to achieve success. This meant that for the sake of their friendship, Aidan keeps Chase in the dark. While it allows the two to grow closer, Aidan can only hope that when it came time to confess, Chase understood.

“Well, in that case, I especially hope he keeps my real name far from the Talent Showcase, I still need to prove that I got here on my own. Not to mention, I can’t lose Chase. From the very first day that we met, there was a spark, that I’ve never felt with anyone. I can’t lose that.” At this thought, Aidan’s mind travels back to the day he arrived in New York, the day he had met his new family at Star, and the day his life changed forever.

On his first day in New York, Aidan was racked with nerves over his audition with Carmichael. Stepping out of the New York City cab, he was ready to start building his own legacy as a vocalist. Aidan took in a deep breath, his throat immediately closing tight in protest of the smoke and fog that traveled down his gullet. His hand moved to his throat and soothingly rubbed it as he made his retreat into Star Diner. Inside, the twenty-three-year-old was immediately rescued from the near toxic air.

Instead, Aidan was met with the ruby red and aquamarine tones of the diner’s stools, seats, and walls. All the while smells of fries fresh from the deep fryer wafted from the kitchen. Burgers must’ve just been taken off the grill. Then there was the bacon… the hickory, maple scent that sent the young man’s eyes to the back of his head as his mouth began to salivate. Aidan’s stomach began to express its own song, rumbling in protest over not having been fed much since he began his travels the week prior.

Despite protests from his family about pursuing a singing career like his father Adrian Castillo, Aidan made the trek to New York to audition at STAR. Due to their lack of support, Aidan left with nothing but a couple of hundred dollars which he nabbed from his parent’s safe before embarking on his journey.

Aidan had already used most of his funds for travel to New York without his parent’s knowledge. With fifteen dollars left, he figured he should use the last of it to soothe his stomach and buy a meal.

“Welcome to the Star Diner! Where the stars shine bright—.” The now-familiar voice began.

“Look alive!” A loud, clear voice broke his trance. Aidan ducked out of the way just before a tray of food smashed into him. The woman holding the tray, paused looking back at him with a curious inflection on her face and a hint of marijuana that made Aidan’s nose flare. “Are you here to see Carmichael?” Aidan cleared his throat, his nerves suddenly getting the best of him. The woman chuckled, approaching a table of five and starting to drop off the delicious entrees. The aroma from the food drowned out the smell of the herb and reminded Aidan of his hunger.

The once-strange man with a white dress shirt and black bow tie walked toward Aidan and smiled. Aidan took in the man, taller than himself yet not a giant. Wavy brown hair contrasted his crystal blue-green gaze which was bright with life. His pearly white smile was framed by a groomed, trimmed beard that accentuated his dimples. His shirt hugged to his form, highlighting the muscles underneath. Even then, a flash of that white shirt and his dimples always made Aidan go beet red. “Gage, go easy on him. Not everyone can be as sharp as you. By the way, you’re up in five minutes.” The man looked Aidan up and down. It felt like an inspection, yet Aidan didn’t feel uncomfortable. He felt warm, his heart pacing.

“Are you Howard Carmichael?” Aidan managed to get out. The man shook his head to preface his response. Aidan’s brown eyes settled on the brunette locks catching the air before forcing himself to meet the man eye-to-eye. To Aidan’s relief, the man did not appear to notice his lingering stare.

“That’s a negative, man. I’m Chase Nolan, the Host with the Most. Welcome to the famous Star Diner!” The wink that followed the man’s greeting made Aidan’s heart flutter. It is a wink that to this day, continues to make Aidan melt like putty. The name sparked recognition for Aidan, as he thought about his research into the STAR Diner prior to his travels. By this point, Gage, returned to Aidan with a smile.

“You’ve got good reflexes, I almost decapitated you with my tray.” Gage playfully nudged his shoulder. Aidan chuckled in response. Gage’s smile turned to a serious scowl. “You have a bright attitude for a man who just narrowly escaped his own demise.” Aidan motioned to his thick neck.

“Wouldn’t have been a clean decapitation. Then again, maybe the walk back would have done the job.” Aidan replied with a similar playful gaze. Chase crossed his arms and raised an interested eyebrow.

“Oh, we got jokes…are you a comedian?” Chase’s eyes beamed with eagerness and pride.

“No, my father always said comedians just use sarcasm to hide their insecurities—” Aidan paused as Gage pointed to Chase multiple times with wide, pleading blue eyes. Aidan gasped as he focused on Chase. “Oh God… you’re a comedian, aren’t you?”

“Quick on the uptake huh?” Chase confirmed with an awkward chuckle as his hand ran through the fields of golden brown locks.

“Is it suddenly getting really hot in here?” Aidan started to fan himself with his shirt, hoping this eased any tension. Aidan was sure this meant the end of a possible friendship with the man. Instead, Chase’s eyes softened.

“It’s okay, my ex-wife hates comedians, too. It’s why she started sleeping around” The man jokes with a pat on Aidan’s back. Aidan was able to let out an awkward laugh and relax just slightly into Chase’s firm yet soft touch. His skin still burning him up from the inside. “So, you know that I am Chase the host who hides his insecurities with brilliant comedic stylings. It’s a pleasure to meet you, assuming that you aren’t a legacy.”

“A legacy?” Aidan questioned. Gage rolled her eyes teasingly.

“Legacies are what Chase calls performers who are children of members of the industry or former members of the diner.” Gage explains.

“Yes, I have taught her so well. Legacies have a certain level of entitlement that makes them believe that they are owed a spot among our ranks. Not to mention, they often take spots at the talent showcase from deserving entertainers. Legacies wouldn’t know talent if it hit them square between the eyes.” Chase punctuated this explanation with a playful nudge to Aidan’s forehead.

With this knowledge, Aidan paused before his response. Often when he told people that he was a Castillo, they tried to get close to him, because his father was a ticket into the entertainment business. Or worse, as Chase proved, they assumed he was only afforded opportunities due to who his father was. This was a unique opportunity, to be himself, to be who he chose to be. Aidan let out a breath and smiled weakly.

“Aidan Castle. And again I’m really sorry about my ‘insecurity’ judgment. I tend to put my foot in my mouth.”

“Don’t we all. No idea why… ‘defeet’ never tastes good.” Chase said with a comforting tone and a smile. Though from anyone else’s mouth this would have been a groan-worthy pun, Aidan could not help but laugh. Aidan felt his shoulders fall slightly and relax, releasing a breath. Chase shook his head. “Don’t deserve the laugh with that one but thanks, Aidan.” Gage looked at the pair with a knowing glance. She used a pale, skinny hand to move the hair from her face. Black fingernails lightly combing through her auburn hair. Gage then moved her hand in front of her face, looking at the time on her watch, her blue-grey eyes widening.

“Son of a bitch, I’m on.” Gage removed her apron, handing it to Chase as she hurried to the diner’s stage which was present on the far side of the diner. Gage hopped onto the stage as a few fellow waiters rolled a piano and mic onto the platform. Gage sat at the piano and adjusted the mic so that it was by her face. She looked at the crowd and smiled. “My name is Gage Hanson, and this is a song I’ve written called ‘See Me’.” Gage’s hands started to fly across the keys, crafting a beautiful tune that bounced off the walls. Gage leaned into the mic and began to express a story through her notes and vocals. The crowd watched in total silence and awe-filled eyes at her melodic voice. As the song reached a crescendo, Gage reached for the final note, but her voice broke. Her eyes seemingly cursed herself as she swiftly ended the song with a flourish. Aidan was in awe at her talent, leading the applause.

“Oh good God, she was great.” Aidan commented with awe in his voice. “Do all the singers know how to play the piano?” Aidan looked to Chase curiously. Aidan had not even noticed that the two stood shoulder to shoulder with one another. Despite him noticing, neither made any effort to widen the distance between them. Chase merely broke his stare from the stage and locked eyes with Aidan.

“Most of the singers try to be double or triple threats here.” Aidan narrowed his eyes. Chase sighed. “You are killing me, newbie. Over the past decade or so, Carmichael has adopted the attitude that singers come a dime a dozen. Being able to warble a tune isn’t as special anymore. Most singers here get lost in the shuffle and rarely get picked up at the talent showcase, that’s if they even get to perform.” Aidan’s eyes widened, worry filling his dark expression. “Crap, you’re just a singer, aren’t you?”.

“Yeah, singing is all I’ve got in my arsenal, unfortunately. So, I guess I come a dime a dozen.” Chase’s eyes softened and the man let out a breath.

“Well then, meet with Carmichael, and blow him away. You are special, Aidan, I can tell.” Aidan’s cheeks felt as if he’d been slapped, burning with flattery.

“Why are you being so nice to me? I mean, I am a socially awkward kid who just accidentally insulted your whole life’s work?” Chase’s gaze moved to the ceiling, as if he had carefully chosen his next words.

“Cause I was just like you at one point. A young hopeful with a fresh look at the world. Now, I’m 32, divorced, and I barely get to see my daughter. All I’m saying is that this life, it’s tough. Why am I going to go ahead and make it tougher for someone who’s trying to make it, just like me.” Aidan nods, grateful for the man who as little as five minutes ago, was a complete stranger. Yet, Aidan felt electricity in the air between them. Something in his gut felt warm and comforted, telling him that he could trust Chase completely. That the man was honest with his intentions and had Aidan’s best interests at heart, and Aidan began this relationship with a lie.

“Thank you. For most of my life, people who have been nice to me have always wanted something in return. In short, I’ve never really had a genuine friend.” Aidan recalled various friendships where his classmates only wanted to meet his father to get a personal concert or autograph from the Spanish vocalist. Aidan shook his head at these thoughts. As long as he kept everyone from learning who his father was, this would not be an issue. Chase’s soft voice pulled Aidan from his head.

“Well, I strive to be genuine. What you see is what you get.” Chase assured. Aidan chuckled, looking down at the clean linoleum which reflected his still-red complexion at him. His brown hair looked voluminous and well-kempt. His soulful eyes reflected excitement, but also anxiety and worry. There was a spark of guilt, that he was not being completely genuine with Chase.

Gage scurried over to the pair, a smile on her face. “Oh God, how did I do? I felt like I was so pitchy. Also, my voice broke on that final note. You know what they say, it’s how you leave them.” Aidan shook his head.

“You did great. I am sure that you are going to get picked up at the end of this year.” Aidan noted enthusiastically. Gage smiled.

“Thanks. You are so sweet, we’ll see how long that lasts.” At Aidan’s confused face, Gage cleared her throat. “All I mean is, everyone starts out nice, then they realize how cutthroat this place is. You see that girl over there?” Gage motioned to a young woman waiting on a table. Aidan nodded hesitantly. “That was my best friend Beth. We came here together, as a duo from Maine. Now, we only speak when circumstances force us to.” Gage explained. Aidan frowned.

“That is cynical.” Gage shrugged.

“Or possibly realistic.” Gage crossed her arms as Beth walked past her. “Hey, Beth!” Gage greeted. This elicited a roll of Beth’s brown eyes.

“What do you want?” Beth snapped. Gage remained silent and took a step back as Beth left, walking off to finish her order. Gage appeared content that she proved her point, yet still disappointed. A tear formed at the base of her eye. Gage hid her sadness well, immediately wiping it away before it made a descent down her face.

Chase placed a comforting hand on the shoulder of Aidan and Gage. “That doesn’t mean you can’t make friends here.” Chase encouraged. Gage smiled.

“Yeah, Chase and I are practically old chums at this point.” Aidan smiled.

“Well, I definitely picked up on the same tone of deadpan humor and sarcasm.” Aidan noted. Chase laughed.

“I walk her to her apartment every night, I’ve taught her well through our nightly talks. People forget how shady New York can be, especially at night.” Chase stated. Aidan nodded as Gage cleared her throat.

“Not to mention all the times that he’s walked me home he’s never once made a pass or made me feel uncomfortable. That is tough to find in some older cis-male coworkers.” Gage jokes. Chase stifles a loud, disruptive laugh.

“Commentary like that is supposed to be my area of expertise.” Chase teased. A woman walked toward the trio. She wore the same waitress outfit Gage donned.

“Aidan?” She asked. Aidan nodded. “Carmichael has been expecting you. And Gage, I need your help bringing table 8 their dinner. Chase.” With this, the two women left, leaving Aidan with Chase. Aidan felt his mind starting to race as he wondered what the story was between Chase and the woman, perhaps an ex-girlfriend. Aidan became so lost in thought that he had finally remembered what it was that the woman had told him.

This was the moment; it was now or never. Aidan felt his heart skip a beat. Though he had told himself several times that he was ready for this, he suddenly found himself unsure. Chase chuckled.

“What’s going on?” Chase asked. Aidan felt his mouth get dry, his lips sticking together as if held closed by glue. Though he could not admit it, he would much rather continue his conversation with Chase. It could be the last time they spoke, he might bomb his audition and be sent packing back to his family in Massachusetts, never to see the funny man with beautiful eyes and bright smile again.

“Audition jitters.” Aidan was able to get out. Chase smiled as Aidan’s brown eyes welled up with tears, his tan skin heating up. Chase hesitated, staring into Aidan’s eyes, seemingly lost in them. Chase was able to successfully break their hold, clearing his throat.

“Deep breaths, deep breaths. You do not want to risk cottonmouth.” Chase encouraged. As Beth walked by with a tray of drinks, Chase snagged a glass of water. Given his profession, Chase was all too familiar with the dangers of performing with a throat as arid and dry as the Sahara.

“Hey!” Beth snapped.

“Take what you want out of my tips tonight.” Chase assured. Beth smiled as she walked back to the bar to retrieve a replacement drink, content enough that Chase now owed her this favor. Aidan’s heart twinged as Chase handed the red, sheer, plastic cup to him. Their fingers lingered with one another. The two locked their gazes once more. Chase smiled, this time it was him that turned red like the cup. Aidan’s face felt like he was on stage, a stage light beaming down on him, a single bead of sweat forming at his temple.

Aidan pulled the cup to him and drank from it desperately. The cool, iced water soothed his throat. Still, it did not do much to cool his overall body as he was still in the presence of Chase. Aidan offered the still half-filled cup back to the comedian. Chase nodded as he absentmindedly drank from it, cooling himself. Aidan took a step back and chuckled. He was unsure if Chase was simply joking or if this was a rare moment when the charismatic man got a little flustered.

“Thank you so much, Chase, for everything.” Aidan got out. The corners of Chase’s pink, full lips twitched into a smile, a tongue licking them swiftly before retreating back into his mouth.

“Remember one thing Aidan, I have your back. And sometimes, that’s all you need here. Now, do you need a hug?” Chase asked. Again, Aidan was not sure if this was a joke or if the offer was serious. After all, he wanted a hug, especially if it meant calming his nerves and being close to Chase. Still, he felt he wasn’t sure this hug would smooth his hot flash or exasperate it. Then there was the fact that while Chase had done a lot to help him feel safe, Aidan looked to Beth and Gage. At that moment, the pair bumped into each other, staring daggers at each other as they continued their rounds.

At that moment, Aidan knew that a hug was the easiest position to stab someone in the back. No matter how much he and Chase had been connected, it was better to err on the side of caution. Instead, Aidan let out a half-hearted chuckle.

“Not today, but I’ll take a celebratory hug if I get through this.” Aidan answered. Chase nodded as he stepped aside and motioned to Carmichael’s office.

Aidan took a deep breath in and out and made his way to meet Howard Carmichael. This was it, the moment he had waited years for. The moment he had sacrificed so much for including his various scholarships and his pursuit of a college degree.

Each heartbeat seemed to accentuate his footsteps. Finally, having made it to a bright emerald-colored door, the young hopeful reached his hand out and knocked. He was met with silence. Though it only lasted a moment, for Aidan it felt like an eternity.

“Come in!”

“Hey, Aidan, can I borrow you for a moment?” Aidan feels his heart flutter and his mind break from his memories at the deep, friendly voice that projects from behind him. It is a velvet voice that seems to wrap around Aidan and comfort him. With its softness, a smile always came to his face. Granted, often lauded as the best comedian currently at the Star Diner, Chase was familiar with putting a smile on other’s faces.

Aidan turns and finds his eyes drawn to Chase’s pink lips. Aidan smiles as he nods and follows the man to the front of the diner.

“What’s up Chase?”

“First, let me just say that you were phenomenal on that stage. I have no doubt that Howard is going to choose you for the showcase.” Aidan smiles at the relative naivety being displayed by Chase. He is lucky not to have the displeasure of seeing the boss’s true colors. Aidan does his best not to let this sour his mood.

“Yeah, Gage and I were just discussing that. I am very confident that one of the spaces has your name on it.”

“I hope so, this is my tenth season at the diner, we all know that if a talent isn’t picked up by an agent after ten years, Howard lets them go. This is my last year to impress, and….”

“And this is going to be your year, Chase. You are the funniest comedian this diner has ever seen.”

“And yet, I have never gotten picked up. It can just beat down on you.” He whispers. Aidan could sympathize with Chase. After all, out of the small thirty-person staff, only ten were invited to perform in front of the crowd of agents and scouts. Out of these ten, it was often the top two or three that were signed for representation.

“I understand, but you’re still very young, there is always the chance that you find success beyond this place. You can always do more. We all can. Carmichael is not the end all be all.”

“I have what, nine years on you Aidan, so trust me when I say that Carmichael’s words hold a lot of weight. And no one who has passed through without representation makes it.” The younger man runs a comforting hand on the upper arm of Chase. He struggles to keep his fingers from lingering although he wants to admire the muscular frame that rests under the comedian’s usual attire.

“Well, I am just not as cynical as you.”

“Is it cynicism, or is it my patented charm and wit?”

“Now that is funny. You certainly are charming.”

“Oh this I know Aidan, after all, that might be why I never get signed. Howard can’t afford to lose his best-ever host.” Aidan smirks as he runs his hands through the dark brown locks that rested on his head.

“Well, no lies detected. After all, you know how to… excite someone.” Chase bites his bottom lip, his eyes glowing playfully.

“I am a man of many talents.”

“Ooh, I know. You are funny, charming, not to mention your singing voice in the shower–.” Aidan pauses to whistle his approval, his own teasing gaze locked with the man. After arriving in New York, the young Castillo was faced with the harsh reality of living in New York. Fortunately, the man is an inviting host and allows Aidan to stay with him for cheap rent. The older man has been there for the aspiring singer no matter what the situation. In fact, from the very day they met, Chase has continued to prove that he is a true friend and confidant. This only causes further regret over Aidan’s deceit.

“Well, my skills sweep at the Shower Singing Awards. But, we have actually gotten far off-topic with why I originally asked you to talk.”

“Okay, I am all ears.”

“Well….” The comedian pauses, his face turning red as he grabs the front of his shirt and starts to fan himself by shaking it back and forth.

“You okay?”

“Yeah, just nervous. You can do this Chase.” After letting out a deep breath, he is seemingly able to find the words. “I wasn’t sure if Howie told you, but he wanted us to close together tonight. He practically insisted.” Aidan’s eyes narrowed as he contemplated why this is, and if it were connected to the announcement he alluded to earlier. “And admittedly, when he told me, I got really excited.” He feels his lips twitch into a smile at his crush’s words. “Cause, I think over the past few months, we’ve gotten very close. I know that there is that new comedy movie playing down at the theatre. I got two tickets if you want to go see it.”

“Would this be like a date?”

“I don’t know. I know that you are the first man I’ve ever felt this way for before. It is very foreign to me. I mean, my life up until this point: the failed marriage, the failed career, sometimes I find it hard to see the potential. All I can say is that with you I see the potential, and I really want to see where this goes.” At this confession from his crush, Aidan hesitates. Although it was what he wanted, he felt like he couldn’t accept it after keeping his identity secret from his close friend. “And if nothing else, at least I get to brag that I got a hot number to come home with on the first date.” Aidan barely catches the loud, obnoxious laugh as he looks out to the patrons at the diner.

“Hey, before you refer to me as a hot number, at least get me dinner first.” He teases. Chase motions to the diner around them.

“The chef always makes way too many mozzarella sticks so I think we are covered.” Chase covers Aidan’s eyes with his hands, whispering in his ear in a way that makes the singer’s neck hairs reach out to grasp the breath. “Just imagine the smell of ooey-gooey cheese, previously frozen bread crumbs, and freshly defrosted marinara sauce.” Aidan licks his lips playfully to complete the experience Chase has.

“Yummy, they should make that into a Yankee Candle.”

“You and Gage have to stop being funny. I am supposed to be the comedian.”

“Oh stop, as if I could ever do what you could do.” Aidan feels himself trail off as he feels his chest caving in with the guilt of his secret. After all, this was not the first time that Chase was lied to by someone he cared about. And although keeping this secret was easier, what will hurt the most would be if their friendship progressed any further on a lie. He exhales deeply, knowing what he needs to do. “Chase, there is something I need to tell you.”

“Hello Everyone!” The deep, gruff voice tears the pair from their conversation. Aidan and Chase look to the stage, where the boss has taken his place at the mic. “For those who have been living under a rock, I am Howard Carmichael!” Carmichael’s introduction elicits a laugh from the crowd. Aidan noted the hint of arrogance in his tone. After what Carmichael had labeled a “misunderstanding” between the two, Aidan was doing his best to avoid the powerful figure. While Aidan did his best to try and forget, Carmichael would not let him. “It being the first day of April, welcome to the road to the Talent Showcase coming at the end of this May!” The crowd erupts into cheers. Carmichael smiles before motioning for the crowd to quiet down, which they do. Not even his guests would dare to disobey Carmichael.

Aidan watches on as Carmichael clears his throat. “I can now announce some of the talents you will be able to catch this May at the Talent Showcase. Please give a warm round of applause to the talents that will be joining me on stage….” Carmichael pauses as he runs a hand over his thinning hair. He pulls a crumpled yellow piece of paper from his salmon coat pocket. He smooths the paper against his nicotine-stained dress shirt that was likely once a bright white color.

“For now, I can announce that Beth Crawford, Gage Hanson, and Kyson Chounn have qualified for the Talent Showcase.” Aidan and Chase lock eyes as they cheer for Gage, who hurriedly makes it to the stage. Gage and Kyson shake one another’s hands. Gage offers the same courtesy to Beth, but Beth ignores the gesture and instead shakes Kyson’s hand, standing on her tiptoes and smiling at the man with a seductive gaze. Kyson, in return, narrows his eyes with confusion. Carmichael chuckles.

“The competition is already heating up.” He notes. “Speaking of competition, for the first time in that Talent Showcase’s history, you the audience will have a voice in picking some of the talents who will fill out the talent pool. Next week, you will get to decide between two promising talents. Would you like to know who these competitors are?” The crowd voices their approval. Carmichael grins, flashing everyone, cigarette-stained teeth. Aidan crosses his arms over his chest, his ears perking at this new development.

“Well, get excited because we have old school versus new school. You will get to judge the comedic stylings of Chase Nolan against the beautiful vocals of the hidden legacy in our ranks Aidan Castillo!” The crowd gasps at the development. Aidan’s breath catches in his throat and his eyes widen as he meets Chase’s gaze. Chase’s eyes display shock, but worst of all, pain and betrayal.

Carmichael’s grating laughs fill the diner. “Oh yes, Adrian Castillo’s son is here to match his father’s path.” Gage looks between Aidan and Chase nervously. Carmichael nods. “Aren’t I a stinker, you were trying to keep that a secret, weren’t you, Aidan Castle?” Carmichael teases. Aidan rolls his eyes at the obnoxious man.

“Now, don’t be sour on that account, shake hands.” Carmichael encourages. Though the pair were right next to one another, it feels that they are miles apart. With now a gleam of sadness present in Chase’s gaze, Aidan has no choice but to look down at the ground. Guilt and shame make his heart pound so loud it reverberates in his ears.

“I’m sorry Chase, I was literally just about to tell you–.” Chase shakes Aidan’s hand half-heartedly before swiftly returning to the host’s podium. Tears welling in the man’s eyes, he sniffles, ignoring Aidan and focusing on the stage. Aidan feels tears fill his own eyes as he looks at Carmichael, fury burning in his gaze.

“Oh my, it looks like Chase knows that in just a week, he has to play the game. Let that be a lesson, Mr. Castillo, you don’t win, if you don’t play the game.” Carmichael mocks. Aidan shakes his head incredulously, wondering how the man was able to sound playful to everyone else, with only Aidan knowing what this challenge was truly about. “Well, I wish both competitors the best of luck.” Gage leaves the stage, making her way towards Chase.

Aidan, however, has his focus on Carmichael. He is able to catch the man just outside of his office, away from the prying eyes of the audience, who after all, were there for a show. Aidan turns the man around.

“So, I guess you and I aren’t getting past your misunderstanding.” Aidan challenges. Carmichael chuckles, not turning to face the younger man.

“I guess this is how I’ve chosen to play things, Mr. Castillo. If you had just played your part, this could have been avoided.” The man approaches, though Aidan wants to step back, his feet are frozen in place. A rough, calloused hand grabs the back of his neck and pulls him close, the boss’s tar-filled breath chokes up the vocalist. “And don’t try to play along now, it is far too late for that. Now here’s how this is going to go, you have nothing left here in New York so you are going to resign, and you will leave.” Aidan holds back the tears building up inside of him, his gaze darkening as he shoves the man away.

“Well, you keep saying I have to play the game, well Carmichael you have officially pushed me too far. All that is left to say, is game on.” Without another word, the young vocalist departs, full of disgust with the man who stood before him. As Aidan makes his way out to the floor of the diner, he can’t help but notice the sea of spectators, phones trained on him as they relish in their gossip. He tries not to focus on this, however, his attention instead turns to Chase and Gage who speak in hushed tones. As Gage knows of the misunderstanding as well as his heritage, he is sure that she is doing her best to act as damage control.

Secretly, Aidan hopes that she throws in the towel and focuses on keeping the friendship between herself and Chase strong. After all, Gage had arrived in New York the year before Aidan, and she and Chase had developed a strong friendship over that time. Aidan’s only hope is that he is able to revive the relationship with Chase, which now appears dead on arrival.

Invisible

A Short Story

The night before the incident, Lindsay Green had worked her stomach into knots. She spent her nightly routine at her vanity, removing her makeup. Whether it was the stress of that day, exhaustion, or both, she yawned. “What do I have to do to get people to see me?” She cries, In the corner of Lindsay’s eye, a shooting star whipped across her window, her night lamp flickering. The girl shook her head, dismissing the strange occurrence and finishing her ritual for bed.

That night she dreamt a dream she was familiar with, Lindsay watched from the sidelines as her cheer squad expertly pulled off their individual steps that made up a group performance. Lindsay held back, running her hand nervously along her golden braid, awaiting to fulfill her role. The cheer captain, Jenna, directed the choreography.

Lindsay’s green eyes glared at Jenna. The morning before the incident, Jenna had called the entire team to the gymnasium before home room. Lindsay suspicions were that Jenna was to announce the Cheer Captain for next year. With Lindsay and Chloe being the only juniors, it was certain to be one or the other. Lindsay’s aspirations prayed it was her.

As they waited for Jenna’s arrival, Lindsay noticed a freshman sitting beside her, her leg shaking nervously. Lindsay couldn’t help but ask the girl if she was okay. The girl shook her head.

“No, I’m afraid Jenna’s going to do some cuts—.”

“I’m nervous too.” Lindsay interrupted, a skill she was quite good at. “What if Jenna doesn’t make me the cheer captain for next year? I’d just about die. After all, I am dedicated to this team. I was here the day after my Pop-pop’s funeral. And she never even thanked me. She just kept saying I shouldn’t have been there—.”

“Wow that must have been so hard for you.” The girl stated, turning away from her. Lindsay scoffed at the girl’s dismissal. Jenna arrived with a conflicted look on her face that made Lindsay’s heart drop, Jenna hadn’t decided who to pick. Jenna’s speech confirmed what Lindsay feared. What Lindsay heard of the speech anyway.

Once it became clear she would not be named Captain, Lindsay’s mind raced. Why was the decision so difficult? Lindsay thought. She put the team before everything. Perhaps, she wondered, if she claimed her spotlight at tomorrow’s big homecoming routine at the top of the pyramid, Jenna would have to promote her. Lindsay barely heard Jenna’s farewell as the bell rang. Lindsay’s pale cheeks burned red as she noticed Chloe and Jenna hanging back to speak with one another as she departed.

As her dream concluded, Lindsay expertly performed her steps and was ready for the spotlight as Chloe, the tallest of the squad, hoisted her up high to reach the top of the pyramid. Lindsay looked out into the crowd to find her family. She finds her mother, her step father who rarely attended her meets, her sister Sara, and her maternal grandfather: her Pop-pop. Lindsay’s green eyes blink, welling with tears as they find Pop-pop. Though he was gone, in her slumber, he never missed a meet.

Despite the din of the gymnasium, Lindsay was able to focus on the voices of her family over the crowd. Their voices sound unnatural, unsettling. Their words shook her to her core. All praise for her teammates yet nothing but criticism for her. Her grandfather’s eyes filled with disappointment. She had let him down.

The morning of the incident, Lindsay’s eyes shoot open and she sits up in her bed, light flooding her senses. The blonde shields her eyes from the beams that cut through her sheer curtains. A sweaty sheen covered her. The clock indicates that her nightmare will mean a late arrival to school, this fact added anxiety to what would already be a hectic day.

Lindsay felt strange. Almost as if she were still asleep. As she made her way to her vanity, her eyes settled on the memorial card of her Pop-pop. It had been two months since his sudden heart attack that contradicted a man who was young at heart. After all, well into his fifties he took the time to teach Lindsay how to play tag, play catch, and even paid for her first gymnastics lesson. All the events her father, whoever he was, never partook in. Deep in thought, it took Lindsay a while before she noticed.

Lindsay’s shirt floated. It didn’t make any sense to the girl, her clothes were present in the reflection, but she was not. She was invisible. “Oh my God!” Lindsay screamed. After a moment, the door shot open and Lindsay’s younger sister Sara stepped into the room.

“Lindsay are you ok—. Oh my god? What… what am I looking at right now?” Sara questioned completely dumbfounded.

“Sara, we’ll get into you barging in my room later, but can you see me?” Sara watched with wide brown eyes as the sleeves move frantically.

“That’s a negative Lind. Why can’t I see you?” Lindsay’s eyes start to tear up, her nose sniffling. Sara gasps as she grabs a tissue from the vanity and approaches, reaching up and dabbing at droplets that appeared in mid-air, hoping she wasn’t jabbing her older sister in the eye. “Don’t cry.” Sara soothes.

Lindsay wondered why Sara was being so comforting, after all, the morning prior she had been rude and dismissive of Sara when she asked to borrow an item of hers. She explained her behavior away by telling Sara to not be sensitive and put on a brave face. Lindsay had forgotten what it was Sara had even asked for, she was too preoccupied the morning before the incident to remember. She didn’t deserve Sara, she thought. Lindsay returned to the present, hyperventilating.

“Sara, the big cheer meet is today, I’m in deep sh—.”

“I got it. Look, we’ll figure this out. We have each other’s back’s, cause we’re sisters.” Sara assures. Sara paces back and forth. Though the young girl was only 13, she was quite bright and had been able to surpass eighth grade to become a high school freshman over the summer. Lindsay hated having to attend the same school as her kid sister, but at least she got to leave Sara with her clique so that she could focus on team meetings with the cheer squad. Sara snaps her fingers. “I got a plan, I will meet with Jenna, and I will tell her that you offered to take over for Howie as the Phoenix mascot after his injury?” Sara suggested. Lindsay pouts before remembering that Sara cannot see her.

“But then no one will be able to see me at the top of the pyramid!” Sara narrows her gaze.

“Linds, no one can see you either way!” Lindsay kicks the chair in front of her vanity down in frustration. Sara jumps back, her hand shooting to cover her heart. Lindsay sighs.

“I’m sorry Sara, I didn’t mean to frighten you. It’s just that the last three years has led to this. I am supposed to be at the top of that pyramid. I am supposed to have the spotlight. I am supposed to become cheer captain! This was not how this day was supposed to go. I was not supposed to be invisible! Why can’t Pop-pop be here? He’d know what to do. He could always see me for me. Like no one else could” Lindsay notes. Sara nods.

“You were always his Lil’ Lindy.” Sara points out. A bit of sadness and envy poked through Sara’s words. “You know Lindsay, everyone sees you. We see how talented you are. We see how hard you work. We see all the struggle you have overcome. People seeing you has never been the issue. It’s you that needs to see everyone else for who they are.” Sara advises. Lindsay sniffles.

“When did you get so smart?” Sara chuckles at her sister’s teasing.

“The day I started following my big sister’s advice and putting on my brave face. Tell me where to meet Jenna and we’ll get through this. People won’t see your face, but they’ll see your brave and your talent.” Sara assures. Lindsay nods, knowing that they didn’t have any other plan.

That morning, Sara set the plan into motion, leaving Lindsay to wait in the gymnasium for the rest of the team. She notices Chloe make it first. Lindsay frowns, now that she thought of it, Chloe was always the first one to the Cheer meetings and was often the last to leave. Jenna arrives shortly after Chloe. The two greet one another with a hug.

“Hey Chloe, thanks for coming on such short notice, we need to come up with an entirely new choreography. Lindsay’s little sister told me that Lindsay volunteered to take Howie’s spot as the mascot. So now we need to kill the pyramid.” Jenna groans. Chloe nods.

“Well, we can still have the individual steps that lead us into a line formation instead of the pyramid. Won’t be as flashy but we can still spotlight everyone.” Chloe suggests. The pair get tow work, making changes to the routine that accommodated the changes but would not stress out the others. After some time, Jenna lets out a breath.

“Chloe, be honest with me, who do you think I should make captain, you or Lindsay?” Jenna questions. Chloe chuckles awkwardly.

“It’d be very easy to just say me. But if I’m being honest, Lindsay. She needs this more. I mean, she is always talking about how she is in her element. She is such a strong candidate. And she has proven her passion. She was here after her grandfather passed. When my father was sick, I took like two weeks. Luckily he recovered… but still.” Lindsay looked down, knowing that Chloe was attempting to make herself look as though she was not dedicated.

Lindsay felt her heart twinge, as she had never known about Chloe’s father. Then again, she rarely listened. Soon, their pre-meeting was over and they waited for the rest of the team to arrive.

Lindsay got into her Mascot costume and made her way out to the middle of the gym to help the squad prepare the mats. Jenna notices Lindsay and motions to her. Lindsay approaches apprehensively. “Lindsay, I wanted to ask, who do you think should be made team captain, you or Chloe?” Jenna inquires. Lindsay exhales deeply, knowing what she needed to do.

“Clearly it’s Chloe.” Lindsay states, but even Lindsay’s ears strain to hear what she has said.

“I’m sorry what?” Jenna asks. Lindsay curses the mask for obstructing her voice.

“Chloe!” Lindsay projects, but Jenna narrows her eyes and points her ear to Lindsay.

“Try taking the mask off. I can barely understand you.” Jenna leans in to remove the mask, but Lindsay backs away. “Lindsay, stop fooling around I can’t hear you!” Jenna shouts out. This draws the eyes of the rest of the team. Lindsay’s eyes tear up, knowing that once everyone saw her condition, her status was over. Lindsay felt hot, as if her skin were boiling. Her hands fumble to the edge of her mask. With an exhale, Lindsay accepts her fate and removes the Phoenix head from her own.

“I said, it’s got to be Chloe! She is always the first one here. She doesn’t care about the spotlight, only the team. Also, she is a talented choreographer along with her skill in gymnastics. She is such a great part of this team. She only cares about helping us reach our best.” Lindsay looks around and notices shocked looks. Lindsay shakes her head as she removes the gloves only to see the pink fleshy digits underneath.

Lindsay blinks multiple times, as if to ensure that her eyes weren’t playing tricks on her. Jenna nods. “Thank you for your advice.” Jenna notes. With this, the team gets back to work. Lindsay smiles as she joins her team in setting up. She finds herself across from Chloe. Chloe’s brown eyes tear up.

“Thank you for your kind words.” Chloe whispers. Lindsay smiles.

“I’m sorry for not saying them sooner. Especially after everything with your father.”

“I told you about him?”

“After everything that happened with my Pop-pop, I did a lot of talking, I promise from now on I’ll do a lot more listening.”

“I appreciate that. And I hope you know that regardless of what Jenna decides, we make a great team, we’ll rely on one another.” Chloe promises. Lindsay smiles and nods her agreement.

As they prepare, Lindsay realizes all the hard work that Jenna and Chloe put in to change the routine, she was not about to challenge this further by ditching the mascot. Lindsay was ready to do whatever she had to for her team.

The result was one of their best routines yet, including a standing ovation. Lindsay had never felt prouder. Following their meet, Jenna named Chloe as her successor for Captain. Chloe named Lindsay as her “Senior Advisor”. Lindsay was grateful for the opportunity to be there for her team and to practice her skills of listening to those she cared for.

The night of the incident Lindsay was in her room with Sara, the pair discussing their grief over the loss of Pop-pop. Since his passing, she had not been there for her sister, nor had she acknowledged her grief. It was a nice end to the most hectic day of her life. Soon, it was late and time for bed. The sisters were so exhausted that they fell asleep suddenly, holding hands, Lindsay in bed, Sara sitting in an armchair beside her.

As slumber took her, Lindsay was suddenly back in the gymnasium. This dream was like others she had before, but this time it was different. Lindsay focused her energy on her team, making sure that they felt appreciated and valued in their own spotlight. As the routine ended, Lindsay applauded her team. She found her Mother, her sister, and Pop-pop in the crowd. He smiles at her and nods.

“I’m proud of you, my Lil’ Lindy.”

The Holiday

Ellison moves from room to room of his house with purpose. His dark brown eyes darting from side to side to cover each corner of the room. His breathing comes out in short, stunted breaths, frustration building inside of him as it seems like his laptop charger was playing an unwanted game of hide and seek. Through his determination to end this irritating task short, Ellison barely notices as a shadow moves past him, drawing his stare. The beating of his heart pauses suddenly. The hairs on the back of his neck reaching out to the still air of the living room. Ellison’s hand shoots to his chest, holding it as if for comfort. Though this effort was not effective.

“Hello? Grant?” Ellison calls out for his significant other. As soon as the question leaves his thin, pink lips he immediately shakes his head and smiles at his silly thought. Grant makes a living at a hospital analyzing systems that nurses and doctors use. While he does work remotely from home some days, Ellison knows that Tuesday was not one of those days. With frustration building inside of him, he runs a hand through his brown hair and lets out a deep breath. He begins to repeat a mantra in his mind that after a string of nights staring up at the ceiling and tossing and turning, his tired eyes must be playing tricks.

“Where is that darn charger?” Ellison spits under his breath. Suddenly, another shadow crosses past his short form. His fists clenching, Ellison pushes his back up against the wall behind him. He narrows his eyes as he attempts to follow the shadow with his gaze. His ears focus on the heartbeat inside of his chest picking up pace. The pulse racing hard so that he began to feel each as a tremor through his entire body. Ellison starts to shiver violently, unsure if this is his nerves or a December breeze making its way through the house. As another shadow moves past him,he trips and crashes into a side table. Ellison releases the breath he didn’t even realize he was holding. Realizing how ridiculous he must look, he finally lets a chuckle escape him.

“You’re being silly Ellis, you’re tired, that’s all.” He states. Though he does not do the best job convincing himself. Ellis leans down and focuses on boney hands which used to look healthy as they put the side table back into its place. As he cleans up, his mind turns to happy memories to get his mind off of what had been dominating most of his thoughts the past few nights and this morning. He instead remembers the various school plays he took part in with his best friend Chelsea, his brothers and how they always had his back, and finally his close relationship with his mother and the guidance she always seems to have for him in times of need. Ellison needs his mother’s guidance now, and the thought of her face makes his slightly chapped smile as he picks up his keys which fell from the side table moments earlier. His sigh of relief comes when he sees the laptop charger bundled up and resting underneath the couch.

“Grant… why are you always moving my things?” Ellis grabs a hold of it and heads upstairs to his home office. After searching for his charger and the seemingly sentient shadows, he isn’t completely in the mood to go on a work call. But after all, his boss needs to know Ellison’s social media marketing strategies. He chuckles as he thinks about the trivial nature of his work. As the meeting commences, his mind wanders elsewhere. The monotonous voice of his boss begins to lull Ellison into a slumber. Each time he feels himself getting to that point, he jolts back to a sense of consciousness as if he was in a car just about to run a red light. The thought fills his eyes with tears. Ellison wipes them, but his eyes already sting and glow a pink shade that betrays the fact that he has almost cried. To escape further travel to this path of thinking, he finds his gaze traveling to the walls of his office. He sits back and frowns, the pure white walls sterile, like a padded cell. His brown orbs focus on the door and half-expect it to be a metal entryway, with only a small window providing him access to the outside world. His cheeks burn and redden as this rather strange thought fills him with unease and discomfort. As if his flight response is kicking in, shivers travel down his spine. Again though, Ellison’s eyes move to the window to make sure it was not a winter breeze.

While the window is closed, there does not seem to be an outside world beyond the panes of glass. Rather, the outside feels oppressive, the skies gray and seemingly endless, the ground white. Ellison continues to get further lost in thought on the work call until it was his turn to share. Once the call ends Ellison smiles with comfort as he feels he can finally sit back and relax. Now that it is half past four in the afternoon, he can try to enjoy a movie and snack before Grant gets home from work at the hospital. As Ellison starts to get up, his phone rings. Ellison lets out a breath as he sees it is his best friend, Chelsea, calling. Ellison musters up a half smile and answers. “Ms. Chels, to what do I owe this pleasure?” Ellison greets. Chelsea chuckles.

“You are such a nerd.” Chelsea teased playfully. “I just clocked out at the diner and I know you are out of work too so I just wanted to call and check up on you.” Ellison narrows his gaze.

“Check up?” Ellison questions.

“Yeah, cause it’s the holidays and—”

“I’m fine. Thanks.” Ellison interrupts Chelsea’s attempt at clarification.

“Okay, then how about we move to video chat?” Chelsea offers. Ellison puts his game face on as he accepts Chelsea’s offer and the two begin a video call. As she appears on his phone screen, Ellison sees Chelsea’s bright smile and kind, inviting, warm brown eyes. Ellison peaks a look at himself and struggles not to frown at the sunken cheeks, dark circles to match his dark brown eyes. Though his eyes used to hold a gleam, that light seems dim ever since the incident. Ellison shows off a strained smile that only highlights his tired eyes and face.

“See, I am one hundred percent fine.” Ellison assures. Chelsea nods, a look of playful disbelief on her face, but her eyes betrays her genuine concern.

“Okay, as long as you know it’s okay not to be fine. I’m just worried about you Ellis, I love you and I want to make sure you will be okay. Trust me, I’m speaking from experience, my first holiday without—”

“I appreciate that Chelsea… and I am lucky to have a great friend like you. I love you too, but please… I’m fine.” Ellison assures. Chelsea shrugs.

“Okay, well I’m about to start my drive home, I’ll call later?” Chelsea suggests. Ellison smiles.

“Yeah, I’d like that. Please… drive safe.” Ellison replies. Chelsea eyes widen as she realizes what Ellison means. Chelsea smiles as she nods.

“Always. Talk soon, and get your camera fixed, the video looked weird, something was going on with the shadows.” Chelsea warns. Ellison hangs up and feels his breath like a lump caught in his throat. His phone vibrates, Ellison looks at it to notice it was just a text that Grant would be late. Suddenly, his phone rings and he sees it is his mother requesting a video chat. Ellison struggles to put on another smile before picking up.

“Hey Momma, how are you?” Ellison greets. His mother smiles brightly. Her glasses reflected the screen, letting Ellison see his face again. Ellison almost flinches with discomfort as he thinks how much he has changed in the past few months. Past his reflection, he sees an experience in her eyes, and a sweetness and love that matches her honey gaze. Her face shape is similar to his, though much more full and healthy compared to his pale complexion.

“Well, much better now that I get to see my baby’s face.” His mother states. Ellison grins as he feels the security he always feels with his mother.

“Thanks Mom. I’ve just gotten out of work. That paired with the holidays, you know how it is.” Ellison tries to be as vague as possible. His mother has done her job, making him into the young man he is now, he figures that if he has been feeling strange throughout the day, he can handle it on his own. His mother frowns.

“Yes, when you were a baby, and my father—” His mother begins to confide. Ellison is unsure he is capable of confronting this right now.

“I’m not talking about that Mom….” Ellison lies. His mother wipes a tear that has already begun to form in her eyes.

“Ellison, Baby, listen to me, your father wasn’t the perfect parent. I know that you two never got along the best, especially after the divorce. But I also know that you loved him; and despite his faults, I know he loved you. This is the first holiday without him, and around you there seems to be a cloud of darkness. Ellison, you can’t hold onto that. Please, don’t continue to hold onto the anger you had for him.” His mother explains. Ellison’s eyes finally begins to let out the stress in his body through tears.

“Mom… I am not angry at him. I’m angry with myself. I was so angry at him, for not accepting me for being gay. I was so angry that he drank, and put me in danger whenever he made me get in the car with him after downing ten beers. And I knew he was getting better, but I was so stubborn, that I wasn’t going to answer his calls until I felt he was perfect. And now, he’s gone. His luck ran out and he had to get in that stupid car after drinking. Now, the only way I get to visit him is by visiting the cemetery. So Mom, I’m sorry if I seem so depressed, it’s just that there was so much left unsaid. I never got to tell him that the reason I wanted his acceptance and for him to stop drinking was because I loved him so much. And now it’s too late.” Ellison finally lets out. His mother uses a tissue to wipe her eyes of the tears that formed.

“Ellison, parents know, that never needs to be said, though it is music to our ears. Because we love you and we want what is best for you. However, sometimes our past experiences and culture influences what we feel is best. Your father loved you, and he knows you loved him, regardless of how different you two were. It’s the holidays, go visit your father.” His mother encourages him. Ellison lets out a breath. Suddenly, a beam of light gets through the December clouds and illuminates the room. His mother smiles as she looks at her son. “Ellison, there doesn’t need to be a dark cloud over life. There is a lot of loss and pain in this world, but there is so much light and love as well.”

It is now Christmas, and Ellison walks with Grant by his side as they approach his father’s grave. Ellison begins to tear up. His brothers look to him with sadness in their own eyes. Though they all have their wives by their sides, they motion for their youngest brother to join them. Ellison rests his head on one of his brother’s shoulders, bundling himself close to all of them. Not because it is cold, but because they are always there for support. Ellison’s eyes focus on the tombstone:

“Daniel Castillo, father, son, friend… he was always a father first.”

Ellison’s hand intertwines with Grant’s beside him. His hand no longer boney, but instead plump and the tan color returning. His eyes wander to watch as his mother and her husband look on from their car, tears in their own eyes. Chelsea appears from the back seat of the car and hugs Ellison’s mother to comfort her. Ellison lets out a breath and smiles as he focuses on the warmth of the sun that begins to peek through the clouds. “Happy Holidays Dad… I miss you.” Ellison pauses as he looks around at his siblings, his partner, his best friend, and his mother. “We miss you, and we love you.”

THE END