It took a long time for Gerard to calm down enough to talk, and when he could, it was only in quiet, broken sentences.


"Frankie?.. Why'd he..?. W.why now?.. I.. I don't... I.."


He sobbed heavily for a moment as he tried to compose himself again.


"I don't get w.why he can't l.leave us a.a.alone.."

Frank sighed deeply, holding his lover close and kissing his hair.


"I don't know why either baby.. But I'm not gonna let him hurt you again.. I'm never gonna let anyone hurt you ever again sugar.. Ok?"

Gerard nodded weakly, his head still buried in Frank's neck.
He trusted Frank, he knew that he was safe in the younger man's arms, that Frank would protect him... Hell, Frank would kill for him.. He'd even die for him. The problem was, that he also knew how determined Bert could be, and that scared the shit out of him.


"Frankie?"

"Hmmm?"


Gerard raised his head, wishing he could see Frank's beautiful hazel eyes again.


".. You won't ever leave me, will you?"


His voice, so small.

"NEVER!.."


Frank assured, placing his hands on each side of Gerard's pale face and softly kissing his lips.


".. Baby, I love you with every breath I take, with every beat of my heart, and til the end of time.."

Gerard giggled slightly.


"Is that from a song?"

Frank smiled. It was so good to hear that laugh, even if it was only a small one.


"No baby.."


He chuckled, rubbing the pads of his thumbs over Gerard's soft cheeks.

".. No. That's all me.."


Frank pulled Gerard back into his arms, wrapping himself around his love, and holding him close.


".. I'd never quote cheesy love songs to you baby."

Gerard giggled again, smooshing his face into Frank's neck.


"Aww, go on Frankie.. Sing to me?.."


He whined a little.


".. Please?"

Frank sighed, he'd known this was coming.


"Ok baby.."


He thought for a moment, then began~