“This is my interpretation of Frank's mind. As we got to know each other within the last few weeks, I've learned that things kind of just fly out of his mind and through his mouth. As the obvious things show, Frank likes music, and zombies, cats, zombie cats,” Gerard said and paused as some of the class chuckled at his humor, “but there's also more personal things about him that he takes a while to let you know about. Some of the lyrics in this are songs that are deeply important to him and that he can relate to. They kind of wrap up some of the personal things that he's experienced in his life, which is why I chose them specifically. I used a pencil at first to sketch everything out, added charcoal, markers, and acrylic paint for the coloring.” Gerard announced to the class. He was confident when he talked about his art, he was proud of it as he should be.

Frank was less enthused about what he had done. He was extremely nervous, as he hadn't done this in a while, let alone in front of a bunch of people.

Frank cleared his throat nervously before starting to speak, “I... uh... Um, so, I wrote a song that represents what I think Gerard symbolizes. The melodies I chose are loose and flowing at some parts, and then take a lot of effort and are more complex at other times. When Gerard talks about what he enjoys, like his art, he's really down to earth and easy going. He's relaxed and passionate, like the slow, flowing parts of the song. But, at other times, he's complicated, everything he says comes out with lots of thought behind them. He's careful about what he says, and he's peculiar about how he says it. A lot of the time he seems to over think a lot of situations, which is why I made some of the riffs more complex. So, uh, I guess here goes nothing.”

Frank tuned his guitar, newly equipped with all new strings. He'd bought them in preparation of this day as soon as Gerard convinced him to share his song in front of the class for their project. He started the first note of the song, took a deep breath, and closed his eyes. He let his fingers do the rest of the work, not missing a single note. Everything came out without a flaw, and the class was shocked that Frank actually seemed to know what he was doing. Shortly after he began, Frank stopped, and released the breath he had been holding the entire time. The class all stood up for both Gerard and Frank and applauded.

“Excellent, boys, absolutely exceptional.” their teacher yelled from the back of the room, “I couldn't have asked for anything more. That's exactly what I wanted, class,” she said as she went up to the front, “I want raw talent. It doesn't have to a black and white explanation. Song is an extremely creative way to express your thoughts, and Frank you did an amazing job explaining your reasoning behind your music. Gerard, astounding as always, the detail of everything, the thought behind it all, it's perfect. I think you two definitely understood the point of the assignment and went beyond my expectations. It'll be hard to live up to these boys, ladies and gentleman. Jack, Mariah, your turn.”

“Good job, man!” Gerard said and hugged Frank after they walked out of the class. Frank tensed up but allowed himself to relax enough to gently pat him on the back.

“You too,” Frank said quietly, confused with the sudden contact Gerard gave him.

“Well, hey, I was wondering,” Gerard said shyly, “Do you like.. want to continue to hang out? I mean I know we don't have the project anymore, but I think it would be fun to still get to know each other.”

“Uh.. yeah.. I mean, sure, yeah that'd be cool.” Frank said nervously.
“Want to go to a show tonight, then? I mean it's Friday, you can't just hang out at home all weekend.” Gerard said and laughed.
“Um.. alright, what band is playing?” he asked.
“My little brother's band, and there will probably be a party afterward like last time. Can you handle it, kid?” Gerard said and messed up Frank's hair.
Frank playfully pushed Gerard's shoulder, “Let's see if I can witness one of your infamous drunken stories. I think I can handle it.”
“Then it's settled! It's at the Underground bar on Main, around 8 o'clock, probably. They're opening for another local band that's a little more well known, so try to get there before 8 so there's not a line and shit.. that's the worst. Anyways, I'll text you when I get there.” Gerard explained.
Frank nodded, “Where are you going now?”
“I have to go back to the university.” he responded.
“I heard you say that before, what do you mean?” Frank said, feeling stupid for never asking before.
“Oh, I don't go to school here. I'm a freshman in college,” Gerard said, “Our art room is under construction, and Mrs. Applewood was my art teacher last year. She agreed to have me this semester to get my Art credit until our art room is finished.”
“I see. So next semester you won't be in art anymore?” Frank asked feeling disappointment flush over him.
“Nope!” Gerard exclaimed.

Frank didn't know why he seemed so disappointed that Gerard wouldn't be there. He guessed it was because he was actually forming a friendship with him. A friendship that scared the shit out of him, but still nonetheless a friendship.

“See you tonight, then?” Gerard asked.
Frank nodded, “See you tonight.. then.”

Gerard walked down the hall, turning around half way to wave at Frank. Frank waved back sheepishly, and went down the other hall to his next class.

“How was your day?” Aurora's text read.
“You remember that band we went and saw when you were out here?” Frank replied.
“Yep.”
“Well I'm going to see them again tonight with a friend.” Frank said.
Aurora replied instantly, “Is it a date?”
“It's with a guy, -_-” Frank answered.
“Is it a date?” She insisted.
“No, Ror, it's not a date.”
“What time?”
“I'm walking there now. It starts in a half hour.”
“Haha nice! Have fun on your date. What's his name?” she asked.
“Gerard.”
“Oh, so you're on a date with Gerard? Awww!”
“It's not a date, I'm not gay.” Frank answered her.
“I'm not so sure about that,” Aurora responded.
Frank scoffed, “So I've kissed a guy or two, shoot me.”
“They'll shoot you... hope you're into facials. ;)”
“Clever.” Frank said and smiled at his persistent cousin's text message.

“Hey Frank, I'm here. Meet you in the back near the bar? -G.” Franks next text read.
“Yeah, be there in a few.”

Frank walked up to the bar/ part time music venue. There was a long line outside already waiting for the band, like Gerard had mentioned. Frank looked around to see if he recognized anyone he knew, but unfortunately he didn't.

“Be in there soon, have to wait in this fuckin' line.” Frank texted Gerard.

A couple of minutes later, Frank saw Gerard come out of the front door. He talked to the bouncer for a minute before giving him a handshake. It seemed like they knew each other personally. He watched as Gerard communicated with the blonde, bearded man at the door. He was built tall and heavy. Frank could tell even from a distance that the man had deep blue, intimidating eyes. He was very friendly with Gerard, though, giving him a handshake at the end of the conversation as well. Gerard looked around before he found Frank in the line. His face lit up and he walked over to where he stood. A couple of younger girls gawked at him, but it didn't seem to phase Gerard. He walked right up to Frank and put his hand on his shoulder.

“Hey, man! Glad you can make it. Ready?” Gerard asked.
Frank nodded, “Hell yeah, let's go.”

Gerard guided Frank to the door. “Bob, this is my friend Frank. Frank, this is Bob, he's a friend of mine from school. He looks tough, but he's actually a big softy.” Gerard obnoxiously whispered, loud enough so that the bouncer could hear him.

Bob shook Frank's hand with a strong grip, “Nice to meet you, watch out for this kid, he's insane,” he said and smiled. “Have fun you two,” he said after putting a big red X on Frank's hand.

They walked into the bar. It was musty and hot due to all the people that were already inside. Mikey's band was getting ready on stage, setting up all their instruments, plugging in their amps, and tuning the guitar. Frank noticed Gerard's brother sitting on a stool on stage. His lengthy figure stood out from the rest. He had glasses that sat at the brink of his nose, his hair straight in most places. It strategically hung over his one of his eyes. He wore clothes that were form fitting to his body, unlike Gerard. Gerard wore jackets that were often tight, but they were still always bulky due to the style of jacket. It was hard to tell exactly what his body shape was like under his clothes. Frank could tell his face was a lot more chubby than his brother's. Mikey glanced up and grinned at the two guys. He waved awkwardly before going back to tuning his bass.

“That's obviously my brother,” Gerard said and laughed.
“Yeah, I caught onto that,” Frank joked.
“Do you have any?” Gerard asked with a smile.
Frank got closer to his friend so that he could hear better, “Any what?”
Gerard brought his face closer to Frank's, “Do you have any siblings?”
Frank shook his head, “No.”
Gerard shook his head to show him he understood.

Frank couldn't explain it, but he felt almost.. excitement when Gerard was speaking so close to him. He felt his warm breath on his skin, and it was comforting. Aurora's text flashed in his mind, “Is it a date?” Frank wasn't gay, he'd been with countless girls. He just got out of a serious relationship with a girl, even had sex with her. He'd never been attracted to any other guy before. However, Gerard confused him he was... different. Frank couldn't deny that Gerard was attractive. Frank convinced himself that he thought so because of his feminine qualities. His longer hair, his eyes, his lips, they were all very girlish. His nose was pointed and slightly angled, reminding Frank that Gerard was indeed a man. His Adam’s apple that showed whenever Gerard would tilt his head back made that apparent also. Still, there was something about Gerard that Frank just found incredibly... attractive.

“Here they go, here they go!” Gerard chanted interrupting Frank's thoughts.

He blinked a few times, thankful that Gerard hadn't notice his stare. He smile and nodded, preparing himself for the loud music that was about to come. Mikey started with the bass, strumming along rhythmically. He was so skilled at this trait, he clearly knew what he was doing.

“He's really good.” Frank said to Gerard.
“Hm?” Gerard replied.
Franks lips got closer to Gerard's ear, “He's really good.”
“I know, he's amazing.” Gerard agreed, “You two should jam together some time, you're great at guitar, too.”
Frank blushed slightly.
“Are you fuckin' blushing?” Gerard said and laughed. “That's adorable.”

Frank has noticed that Gerard has two laughs. One of them is high pitched and light when he finds something genuinely funny, and the other is slightly deeper. Frank determined that's his 'public' laugh that he uses when he's being polite with someone, or if he doesn't want to insult them. Frank found it pleasing that Gerard often used his authentic laugh when they were around each other.

The two of them stood side by side, not talking much. They'd occasionally glance at each other and exchange smiles, but soon after would go back to enjoying the music, bobbing their heads in rhythm, and tapping their foot to the beat. Frank noted that the singing was a lot better this time. The sound quality was a lot better in general. After a couple of songs, Mikey's band was over. The second, more popular band started to set up their equipment as the first band started to take theirs down.

“Do you want to stay to check them out?” Gerard asked Frank, automatically coming closer to his face.

“That's up to you,” Frank answered and smiled.

“We can give them a shot,” Gerard concluded as they came to an agreement. “They might be good, you never know.”

Frank smiled, “Do you want something to drink? I think I'm going to grab myself something real quick.”

“I'll take whatever you're getting,” Gerard answered. “Thank you.”

Frank smiled and walked to the bar.

“Can I just have to Cokes, please?” Frank asked the bar tender.

He didn't have to wait long for the drinks to come out. Frank tried to make his way back to Gerard. He looked for him around the crowd, but as the new band started the crowd got more and more congested. He couldn't see his friend where he had previously left him. His eyes darted around the room frantically as he searched for him. Everyone seemed to have black hair in the room which made finding him extremely difficult.

“Plan on drinking both of those, or can I have one, too?” a familiar voice said and laughed.

Frank smiled immediately at the genuine laugh he'd just been analyzing. “Here, I thought I lost you.”
“Wouldn't that have been a shame,” Gerard retorted with a grin. “Change of plans, though.”
“What do you mean?” Frank asked as he took a gulp of his soda.
Gerard did the same then answered, “Mikey and his friends are going to a movie instead. His friend's mom is staying home so there's no house for the party, but I was invited to a different one. No idea if it'll be lame, but I was thinking about going.”
“Oh, really?” questioned Frank.
“Going with you.” Gerard said confidently.
“Alright let's do it,” Frank said and finished the drink like a shot.
Gerard laughed and repeated Frank's actions, “Bottom's up!”

The two boys headed for the exit, fighting their way through the crowd. They kept bumping into people who were less than thrilled to have the annoyance of them trying to get by. At one point, Gerard and Frank were crammed and squeezed together so tightly that Gerard could feel every bit of Frank, which he didn't mind at all. He laughed to himself before continuing his journey out the door.

10 minutes later, they were on their way to Gerard's car which was parked in the back of the Underground.
“We park back here, because I kind of pretend that I help the band. I bring Mikey's bass, so I'm allowed,” Gerard explained.
“What about his bass now?” Frank asked, “Do we need to wait for him?”
Gerard shook his head, “Nah, he's staying at his buddy's house tonight, we don't need to worry about it.”

Gerard started his car, a small silver Volvo in pretty shitty condition, but it still somehow managed to do the job. The Smashing Pumpkins started to roll out of his speakers.

“Best fucking album ever!” Frank yelled over the music, “I can't believe you listen to them.”
“Oh fuck yeah! I love them!” Gerard agreed, “They're my favorite!”
“I approve” Frank said with a smile and a thumbs up.

Gerard looked at Frank's face for a while, admiring his smile.

“You should smile more often,” Gerard said out loud, though he meant to keep the thought contained.
Frank's cheeks became stained once more, “I get that a lot.”

Gerard smiled and turned his attention towards the road. He'd never had to fight the urge to kiss someone so hard in his entire life. He ran his hands through his long jet black hair as he turned onto the street of the party. There wasn't much cars in the driveway, but all the lights were on and people could be seen through the windows.

“This is it. Like I said, I can't promise it to be awesome.” Gerard sighed.
“I'm blaming you if it's lame as shit,” Frank said with a grin as he got out of the car.
Gerard's response was simple, he merely flipped him off.

Frank found it pretty funny that they were becoming close enough with each other that they could joke around like this. He'd been becoming more comfortable with an idea of a friend. It's been a while since he's had someone he could truly trust other than Aurora, but now that they're states away from each other, he thought it would be good for himself to try and open up again. Gerard was an except to his rule.

They walked in the door, Gerard knocking first, then walking in without waiting for an answer. A long haired guy was sitting in the middle of the room surrounded by a couple of people. He was singing and playing his guitar acoustically, giving everyone a private show. He glanced up at Gerard and nodded, which in response Gerard waved and smiled. He pointed to the kitchen, then signaled to the man he was going to get a drink. The musician nodded and continued his song. Gerard nudged Frank to follow him. More people were in the pool in the back yard of the house, some in a jacuzzi. Almost all of them had alcohol in their hands. People spilled out of the kitchen where all the beer was. Frank noticed there wasn't any hard alcohol, just tons of wine and beer. Initially, the party seemed to be slightly more sophisticated than the one he had previously attended. Frank glanced around the room analyzing everyone. They seemed to be a little older than Frank, but not by much. Weed was being passed around, and most people seemed high out of their wits as it was.

“Not as lame as I expected,” Gerard said pleased and grabbed two beers, giving one of them to Frank and opening the other for himself.
Frank accepted the drink and swallowed a good portion.

“Into swimming?” Gerard said and laughed, “I'm not myself, but you're more than welcomed.”
Frank laughed, “Not by myself.”
“Aww, do you want your best friend Gee to hold your hand?” Gerard teased as he grabbed Frank's hand.

It fit perfectly, their two hands together. It felt incredibly normal, and surprisingly not awkward at all. Frank didn't mind for once, the personal contact. He assured himself it must be a contact high or something making him so suddenly comfortable now.

Gerard laughed and let go of his hand before ruffling up Frank's fringe. “Come meet Bert, he's a pretty cool guy.”

Frank followed Gerard back into the living room where the musician had been playing music before. He was just ending a song as they walked in.

“Bravo! Encore, encore!” Gerard playfully taunted the other man.
“Good ol' Gee Way! Good to see you've made it!” Bert said as he lit a cigarette.
“Anything for you, baby.” Gerard laughed and hugged his friend.
“I'd like you to meet my new friend, Frank.” Gerard started, “Bert, Frank. Frank, Bert.”
“Hiya, Frankie!” Bert said and peered at him through thick eyebrows. It looked like he had forgotten to shave that day, the scruff on his neck very apparent. “I'm Bert.”
“Nice to meet you,” Frank recited apprehensively.
“Help yourself, boys. Beer, pizza, the Ganj, you know, whatever.”
“Is that a Gibson?” Frank butted in, referring to Bert's guitar.
“Ohh, are you familiar, sir? It is, indeed.” Bert answered, impressed with Frank's knowledge. “Where'd you find this kid?”
“He's in my art class,” Gerard answered, “He's actually really talented himself.”
“What do you play?” Bert directed towards Frank.
“Oh, um,” Frank started, “It's a white Epiphone Les Paul.”
“Studio or Junior?” Bert tested.
“Studio for sure,” Frank answered, “I haven't played a junior in years.”
Bert was pleased, “I approve, Gee.”

Gerard kind of just looked at Bert hesitantly before grabbing Frank's wrist, “See you in a bit, Bert.”

Gerard brought Frank outside where a group of people were smoking. Joints, tobacco, and even hookah was being passed around in the back yard around a fire. Gerard found a spot for him and Frank on the ground near the hookah pipes.

“Smoke doesn't bother you, right?” Gerard questioned close to Frank's ear.
“I'm good,” Frank answered. He'd been around this scene a time or two.
“Want some?” a girl asked Gerard as she passed a joint in his direction.

He smirked and took it between his fingers. Frank watched Gerard's lips wrap around the rolled up weed and he sucked the smoke into his lungs like a champ. He didn't cough for choke once, unlike most of the people around.

“Here,” Gerard said passing it to Frank, hardly exhaling.

Frank took it, and breathed in the smoke just as Gerard had done. Unlike his friend, Frank coughed a bit before getting comfortable and held in his inhale, letting it marinate in his lungs and throat for a while before blowing out the smoke. His head immediately felt the drag, and he felt good. Gerard smiled at him approvingly. The joint was passed around once more, so Frank tested out his skills again.

After a while, Frank and Gerard started to feel the combination of the weed and booze kick in. They smoked some hookah and continued to drink. Eventually, the group of people dulled down and there was only about 12 left.

“Alright, let's get this shit started,” Bert said as he took out the harder liquor.
Gerard laughed, “I was wondering where the good shit was.”
“It's not a party at Bert's without the JD's,” a girl agreed.
“A bottle of Jack, a bottle of Vodka, and a bottle of Tequila, let's get fucked up.” Bert nodded and opened the whiskey bottle, taking a swig out of it without offering it to anyone else.

Gerard was the second to indulge in the liquor, pouring a good amount of Jack into two cups, then mixing it with some Coke. Stirring his with his finger, he handed the other to Frank.

“Drink up, kid.” Gerard said as he crashed the two cups together, “Cheers.”

The group of friends, (strangers for Frank,) all clanked their plastic red cups together before gulping their own alcohol. Frank noticed that Bert didn't mix anything with his Tequila.

“Awh, dude that's nasty, you're a hardcore mother fucker.” Frank directed towards Bert with a friendly grin.
“Newbie,” Bert laughed, “Keep hangin' with this faggot, and you'll learn quickly.”
Gerard laughed and took a drink of his own cup, “He can keep up. I've seen him party once before.”

The group of friends continued to bag on everyone, all making fun of each other in good nature. Eventually, they ended up in the living room where Bert broke out his guitar once more. He sang a couple of songs. His voice was very unique, but Frank liked it a lot. His long, straggly hair brushed his shoulders and he moved his head back and forth to the music. Eventually, however, Bert's voice became tired and he stopped playing music.

“Wat shud we do now?” Gerard slurred, his speech being impaired by the amount of alcohol he'd consumed.
“Gerard's fucked up!” Bert said with a fake slur to tease Gerard, “Oh God that is soooo cute!”

Everyone laughed at the two's interaction. A couple of people suggested silly drinking games like King's Cup, and even Strip Poker.

“What about a simple old school game of truth or dare?” Bert's friend, Quinn suggested.

At first everyone laughed off his suggestion, but then took it into consideration after no other good ideas were being said.

“I mean, he'sh right, no one evurr doez it anymore!” Gerard attempted to say, and then continued to swallow his mixed drink.

With that, everyone sat in a circle and used the empty Vodka bottle as a pointer.

“Quinn goes first since he suggested it.” Bert said, and Quinn complied.

Quinn grabbed the bottle and spun it. It landed on a quiet girl who hadn't been drinking much. She giggled and waited for Quinn to speak.

“Truth... or dare?” he said and smirked.

“Truth.” She answered.

His grin grew bigger, “Who do you think is the cutest in the room?”

She laughed and looked around the room before her response, “I mean, you're pretty cute.”

“Nice!” Bert interjected and everyone laughed.

The girl spun the bottle and it landed on Bert.

“Dare!” he yelled before being asked.

She thought for a moment, and then grinned, “I dare you to jump naked into the pool.”

“Easy,” Bert exclaimed as he took his shirt off within a few seconds. He started to unbutton his pants as he walked into the back yard. The group sitting on the floor got up quickly to witness his stunt. Everyone laughed as he pulled down his pants, letting them drop around his ankles. Frank took another swallow of his drink before heading outside. Bert took his pants off, revealing his bare, pale ass. He turned around, cupping his junk before letting go to wave, and then back flipped into the pool. The group of people became hysterical at their host's trick. Bert got out of the pool, dripping wet, leaving nothing to the imagination.

“It'sh been a... while since I've seen that,” Gerard chuckled. “Can't shay that I miss et.”

Bert showed Gerard his middle finger, and laughed. Frank looked at Gerard curiously, and laughed, “Did ya guysh date er sumthin'?”

“Gee and I? Date? HAH! You're a riot Frank.” Bert said and wrapped his arm around Frank's shoulders. “So, Frankie, Truth or Dare?”

“Truth,” Frank replied quickly.

“Chicken! Bawk, bawk bawk!” Gerard spewed with laughter.

“Fuck it, dare!” Frank corrected.

“I dare you to kiss Gerard, then.” Bert said with a conniving grimace, “Because I know he wants you to.”

Gerard giggled, allowing the alcohol to bring his barrier down, “Yur the one who thinks he'z cute!”

“Yep, I do.” Bert said and grabbed Frank's face. He kissed his lips harshly, opening his mouth occasionally, but his tongue was absent.

Frank is no stranger to drunk kissing a few guys in his past. When he drinks, anything goes, so Frank went alone with it, moving his lips to match Bert's. They kissed for a couple seconds before Bert stopped and pushed Frank towards Gerard. They both smiled at each other and giggled a bit before Gerard grabbed Frank's face. He was a lot more tender than Bert. He brought their lips together delicately, but there was a force behind it. Frank kissed back and closed his eyes as he and Gerard started to make out. Just as Bert, there was no tongue, at first. Frank tangled his hands in Gerard's inky hair and invited his tongue into the equation. Gerard felt it immediately and accepted it. Their tongues flicked each other for a while, each time their lips met, the kiss would become more passionate.

All of a sudden their kissed was interrupted by an unknown force. Gerard opened his eyes to see Bert's face right next to Frank's. Bert pulled all 3 of their faces together, and started to kiss them both. Frank started to laugh which made Gerard more comfortable. The trio kissed for a while more before Bert decided more alcohol needed to be brought into everybody's systems.

“Let tha party begun,” Frank slurred as he finished his drink.