House Wife

***Gerard***

Gerard removed his hands from his husband's throat, panting and shuddering as he fell against his chest. Frank shifted under him, breathing equally as hard and uneven. Gerard was starting to catch his breath, and when he regained somewhat of his composure, he placed noisy, wet kisses all over Frank's shoulder and throat.

"Didn't even have to move a muscle."

He joked, giggling quietly.

"OH honey, if that is what I will get, you can take control anytime you want."

Frank flipped them over so that he was hovering over his wife. He pressed his face into Gerard's neck, and breathed deeply before taking the flesh in his mouth then nibbling on it.

"Can I just have you for breakfast, lunch, and dinner? Fuck work, I could just stay home, and eat you all day."

Frank trailed down Gerard's chest to his softening cock and mouthed it lightly.

"A-ah..."

Gerard released a high pitched gasp, and jutted his hips up in response to his husband’s actions.

"You'd miss my cooking if you did that."

Gerard looked down at Frank with a weak, worn out smile etched on his face.

"True and I think that the CEO I am meeting with would get kind of pissed being stood up. I am after all buying out his company."

Frank slid off of Gerard's body, and grabbed both their robes. He helped Gerard on with his, and tied the waist for him, using it as an excuse to pull him close again. He kissed him slow and sweet, like their earlier love making.

"All right baby, go whip me up something half as yummy as you so I can take on this idiot. I am going to go hop in the shower... Unless you would like to join me?"

"Not this time.There wouldn't be any washing going on if I jumped in there with you. You know that."

He slipped on his slippers then started for the bedroom door.

"I'll take one after you."

As he exited the bedroom he can hear Frank shouting out that he wasn't any fun as he started to make his way downstairs. He giggled at his husband’s childlike sense of humor as he entered the kitchen, and pulled open the fridge. He didn't know what he was going to prepare yet as he pulled out the gallon of soy milk and vegetarian bacon. He looked to the empty area where the eggs were meant to be kept and realized they had ran out a few days ago.

"Fuck..."

***Frank***

Frank came down the stairs, but could not smell breakfast. He walked into the kitchen, fixing his tie. The damn thing never stayed straight. His suit was a bit more conservative today, he wanted to appear professional.

"Baby, can you fix this for me?"

Frank walked in and saw Gerard dishing out oatmeal with fresh fruit for garnish.

"Everything alright baby? I thought you were making veggie omelets this morning?"

Gerard inhaled deeply and shook his head, releasing a loud sigh.

"Out of eggs."

He starting to fix Frank’s tie.

"I'll pick some up after work..."

When he was done he patted his husband’s chest and pecked him on the lips.

"Eat your breakfast. I gotta shower and get ready."

"What would I do without you Geebear?"

Frank swatted Gerard's ass playfully then settled in to eat. It really did smell good once the brown sugar and milk was added, along with the fresh cut up berries.

"Can you believe it has almost been five years for us? It feels like I have been with you forever baby."

Frank watched Gerard blow him a kiss then leave. He was making a cute squeaking noise as he yawned and ran his fingers through his short blonde hair. It took Frank a bit to get used to the blonde, but now he kind of liked it. Realizing that he had been caught up in thoughts of his wife while time ticked away on him, he picked up the pace of eating. Frank finished his breakfast quickly then pulled the little surprise out of his pocket, leaving it on the counter as he grabbed his briefcase; yeah he needed it today. Frank then headed off to work.

*

*

*

***Gerard***

Gerard's literally running out of the museum by the time he's done with work. The past couple of hours had kicked his ass, and when it was time to clock out he had been on his fifth cup of coffee. He was so fucking drained, but he felt so accomplished. Louis had just driven around the corner when he stopped, jumped out of the driver’s seat, and rushed to open the door for Gerard.

"D'you have a good day at work?"

He tipped his hat to Gerard. Gerard smiled and wiped the imaginary sweat off his forehead.

"Busy as a bee. Today was hectic."

He climbed into the back of the car.

"Oh! And before we go home I wanna stop by the grocery store. I have to pick up a few things."

"Sure thing Mrs. I."

Gerard smiled to himself, and reached into his shirt to pull out the new necklace Frank laid out on the kitchen counter for him that morning. He fiddled with it all the way to the grocery store with thoughts of husband running through his mind.

Gerard briskly walked through the grocery store with a basket hanging off his arm. He had a sticky note he'd written everything down on in his other hand. So far he picked up toothpaste, face wash, Frank’s favorite brand of goat cheese, and eggs. Now he just needed a carton of juice and a bag of those veggie chips Frank liked so much. As he made his way down the aisle he can hear children shouting. Gerard giggled under his breath then started to read the label on the back of the juice.

"Ha ha, can't catch me!"

"You wait till I get my hands on you then you will see how funny it is!"

"Guys, dad is not going to be happy with you two running around the store like this."

"Oh stop, we are just having fun, no one is getting hurt."

"Yeah well you keep chasing Des like that, and she is going to run into..."

A girl with long brown hair dressed in a moderate blue skirt and flowered top ran smack into Gerard, causing her to fall over and nearly knocking Gerard down.

"S-S-Sorry Sir, I did not mean to bump... into... you?"

The girl looked at him then whispered.

"Gege?"

Gerard looked down at the little girl with wide eyes, and a feeling of nostalgia rushed over him.

"Gege! Daddy, I wan' Gege!"

Gerard dropped the basket, and fell down to his knees. He pulled the little girl into a hug.

"Destiny?! Oh my... God!"

He was so close to tears. If Destiny was here that meant...

"Adam, didn't I tell you to keep an eye on those two? Who knows what kind of... Hey! What are you doing with my daughter?!"

The man that rounded the corner grabbed for his daughter, but she would not let go.

"No daddy, no, look look, it's Gege!"

"That's impossible it couldn't be..."

He watched as his daughter moved to the side a bit so he had a better view of the man on the ground.

"Gerard?"

Gerard was still on his knees as he looked up to the familiar voice. Just as he expected. His third husband... Billy. Gerard smiled up at him as he stood up quickly, and grabbed for his basket.

"Yeah, It's me..."

He looked into the tall man’s deep, blue eyes. He looked so... The same... Just bald now. Gerard wanted to comment on it, but he realized it wouldn't be appropriate unless Billy mentioned it first. The lack of hair could mean anything, and he didn't want to bring it up if it was anything but hair loss or a fashion statement.

"Oh my... Gee, uh Gerard, how are you? Uh, what are you doing here?"

Billy looked down at the basket and blushed.

"Right shopping of course. Silly me right?"

"Oohhh, this is pretty!"

Destiny was reaching for Gerard's hand, and touching his rings.

"I like the pink and black stones. What are they?"

"Des, that is not nice to ask..."

"Dad, did you find... Gerard?"

Adam rounded the same corner dragging Stephan with him. Both boys stopped, and looked like they saw a ghost.

"I... uh... hi?"

Stephan pulled away from his brother and ran up to Gerard, but stopped short of him.

"Gerard hi! We missed you? Why did you go? Were we bad kids or something?"

"Yeah, I always wanted to know too."

Billy looked at Gerard. He had never told the kids what happened.

"Kids stop now, sometimes things just don't work out for grownups because one of them is too stubborn to listen or think about the other one's feelings."

The kids looked up at Billy.

"What?"

"Never mind, look I am sure that Gerard has to get back home to his uh... husband?"

Gerard was a bit overwhelmed. He felt a surge of energy rush throughout his entire body, and wanted to throw himself on the ground so he could pull the kids down with him into a hug fest. Then again, he knew that wouldn't be appropriate either. Gerard settled with a smile and shook his head.

"No, I mean... yes, I have a husband, but I'm not done shopping. There's no rush... Are you guys all finished?"

"Well we would have been if I did not have to play hide and seek with these two rascals here."

At that point a phone rang, and everyone looked at the little girl. She pulled it out of her pocket with efficiency and answered it.

"Hello?"

"Yes, oh that's right. No I will tell him. Later."

Destiny ended the call then looked up at her dad.

”Dad that was Kyle. He wanted to remind us that we have a dinner reservation in an hour. He tried calling your phone, but it went to voicemail."

Billy took his phone out of his pocket and realized it was off. He powered it back, up and saw that he indeed had several messages.

"Um, yeah, so we better get going then. We still have to get home and change."

"Awww, but I wanted to spend more time talking to Gege. Hey, can I have your phone number? We can go out for ice cream when you are done doing housework."

Destiny fiddled with her phone and waited. Gerard smiled, looking down at her, and he couldn't say no to that precious face.

"Of course, sweetie, if it’s okay with your dad.”

"Uh, sure, I guess, but honey, I don’t think that Gerard is going to be able to hang out. He has other obligations as a wife you know?"

"Oh Gege will find time to hang out with me, just like he used to, won't you Gege?"

Gerard nodded frantically, and reached out to brush Destiny's fringe away from her eyes.

"Of course. I missed you kids so much. I think about you all the time. Spending time with you will be a dream come true."

Destiny stood and listened to Gerard rattle off his number. She then texted him so that he would have her number.

"All right Gege, I am going to text you for sure this week. We have an ice cream date and..."

"Hey, can I come too?"

Stephan was standing, fiddling with the bottom of his tee shirt. Gerard giggled, looking at him being shy.

"I would love for you to come along, but maybe your father would rather…”

"Oh no, I have too many meetings coming up. No, you enjoy your time with the children. They seemed to have missed you a lot, and are looking forward to spending time with you. Besides, I am sure your husband would have less of a problem if I was not involved too."

At that point Billy looked at his watch and gestured to the children. They all nodded and Destiny reached up on tippy toes to kiss Gerard's cheek.

"It was great to see you Gege, I will call you okay?"

Gerard smiled and twiddled his fingers at his former family.

"I'll be waiting for it."

All three kids waved goodbye then headed out with their dad. Louis came in as they were leaving.

"Everything alright Mrs. Iero?"

Billy stopped and turned.

"Iero?"

Gerard looked away from Louis just as he was about to reply and turned to Billy.

"Yeah, my husband's Frank Iero."

"Wow, I uh... okay. Good to see you Gerard."

Billy left without another word. Louis walked up to Gerard. He took the basket from him.

"I was gettin worried about you. I see you ran into some folks you know though. Anyway, just got a call from Mr. I. He is ready to go too, so we can swing by, and pick him up on the way home."

"Alright... Let's go."

He pulled his phone out of his pocket once he got into the car, and smiled at the text Destiny had sent him.

’<3 Gege <3’

’Dizzy Fate’

It was not long before they arrived at Skatasic Records. Frank was waiting outside whistling when they pulled up. Louis got out of the car and opened the door. Gerard shifted over as Frank climbed in.

"Hey baby! We need to go out and celebrate! You are looking at the new owner of Bare Bones Recordings! This is going to open up so much for us!"

Frank reached over and pulled Gerard into his lap. He leaned in and kissed him with the excitement of his news. He was fevered, and it fed into his movements. He was hard as a rock.

"Wow, really?! That's awesome Frankie!"

He could feel Frank getting hard against his ass and he smiled weakly.

"You're that excited, huh?"

"Yeah baby, why, what's wrong? Did you have a rough day at the Gallery?"

Frank eased Gerard off his lap and looked at him seriously.

"I'm sorry Geebear, that was thoughtless of me to think that you had just as good a day as I did. Besides you spend most of the day on your feet when I get to sit at a desk."

"He was pretty worn out when I picked him up earlier Sir."

"Thanks Louis. Hey Louis, let's stop and get take out at the Thai place. I think Mrs. Iero needs a break from cooking and the public."

Gerard took his husband’s hand.

"It wasn't so bad and Thai food sounds like a good idea."

Frank pulled Gerard into his side and snuggled close to him. Gerard relaxed as Louis piped some Classical music into the car. He closed his eyes, and drifted off with the motion of the car lulling him to sleep.

***Time Stamp: Friday, May 18th***

Gerard's sitting at the breakfast nook with Spencer. They're talking about their day as they eat their salads.

"So enough about school and work... How're things with you and Peter? The puppy must be a handful."

Gerard was mid giggle just as his cell vibrated in his pocket. He pulled it out quickly in case it was Frank. He had a few missed calls, all 800 numbers and a bunch of unchecked emails, but what really caught his attention was a text from Destiny...

’Hey Gege, had kinda bad day at school and need ice cream. Want to join me?’

’Dizzy Fate’

Gerard completely unintentionally blocked out whatever Spencer was saying, and smiled down at his phone like an idiot. He replied back quickly:

’Aw, I'm sorry to hear that sweetie <3 I would love to join you for ice cream! Just let your dad know :)’

’Frankie’s Baby’

He set his phone on low volume and put it down on his lap to wait for a reply. Spencer was staring at him with a confused look on his face. His brow was arched, and his arms were crossed over his chest.

"What?"

*ping*

Gerard heard his phone go off, and picked it up quickly.

’Awesome! Can't wait to see you!’

’Dizzy Fate’

"Uh Gee baby, either someone just sent you a picture of a kitten surrounded by feathers, or Frank just texted you. You are positively glowing right now."

Gerard laughed nervously and shrugged.

"No... It's nothing..."

He trailed off, texting Destiny back.

’Same here sweetie. See you very soon!’

’Frankie’s Baby’

Gerard looked to Spencer and smiled sheepishly at him.

"What was it you were saying earlier?"

"Man Gee baby, you are scatter brained lately. I asked you if you wanted to go with me to a club this evening. Both guys are working late, and Ryan can get us in free."

"A club...? Um. Maybe another time, Spence."

He picked up his fork then poked at his salad a few times.

"Uh... okay. Well, I should get going then. I have to figure out what I am going to wear tonight. If you change your mind, text me and I will give you the address."

Spencer got up, kissed Gerard on the head, and left for the front door.

*ping*

Hey Gege, sorry, I forgot to tell you where to meet me. LOL! Marcia's Ice Cream Parlor. Counting down the hours

’Dizzy Fate’

Gerard's upstairs in his bedroom, rummaging through his walk-in closet. He's looking for an outfit... A pink shirt he'd kept that Destiny had picked out for him when she was 4 years old. He remembered that day as if it were yesterday...

He always took Destiny shopping with him when the other kids were at school and when Billy was at work. He bought her anything she wanted with Billy's credit cards, and it was okay because he usually insisted anyway. Gerard had been in the woman's department, carrying Destiny in his arms when they walked past a rack of pink, silk blouses and Destiny had pointed at them, smiling and cooing. Gerard had picked one up gave it to her to hold. She pressed her little face against and cuddled the cold, silky material.

"Should we get it?"

"Gege, pik pik! Pity Gege by Gege by!"

Destiny thrusted the shirt in Gerard's face crushing the material in her hands.

"She really wants you to buy that shirt Gee Love."

Billy came from the dressing room where he was picking up some new suits for the meetings he had coming up. It was rare that Billy was able to come on one of these trips. but that just made them more special.

"Yeah, I'm gonna get it... Pink's our favourite color. Isn't that right Des?"

He kissed her cheek as she giggled.

"Mmmm, I love spending the day with two of my favorite babies."

He kissed Destiny on the cheek and Gerard on the lips. He lingered there just a minute till Destiny pushed him away.

"NO my Gege!"

"Looks like I have to fight for your affections Gee Love."

"You know she's gonna win, right?"

Gerard joked, smirking as he rocked Destiny in his arms gently. Billy feigned shock.

"Why Gee, here I only thought you want me for my money!"

Gerard slapped his husband’s arm and rolled his eyes.

"You wish. Hold her for a sec. I wanna try on the blouse she picked out."

Billy tried to take Destiny, but she clung to Gerard and began to cry.

"Gege Gege, want Gege not daddy!'

"Well love, it looks like you are just going to have to buy it and hope it fits."

"Yeah, I guess you're right."

He pressed his hand against the back of the little girl's head and kissed her forehead.

"What am I going to do with you?"

"Love me!"

Billy and Gerard laughed at the cute face Destiny made. She pushed herself into Gerard's neck, and sighed as she yawned then drifted off to sleep on his shoulder.

Gerard came out of his thoughts just as Louis pulled up to the ice cream shop

”Here you go Mrs. I, should I wait for ya?”

”No, I will call you when I am done. Thanks Louie.”

Gerard hopped out of the car. He fixed his shirt then took a deep breath. He couldn't believe he was just going to walk in there, and reinsert himself into his ex-family's life. He was scared shitless but also extremely excited. Gerard stepped through the double doors and immediately spotted Destiny. He couldn't tell who the man next to her was because all Gerard could see was the back of his head. Gerard took another deep breath, and made his way over to them.

"Gege!"

Destiny ran to Gerard, and wrapped him in a fierce hug that nearly toppled him over.

"I knew you would come, he said you were just playing me, but I said, Not my Gege."

"So you really are here then."

The man turned around and Gerard came face to face with his oldest son Kyle.

"Kyle? Oh wow... You look just like your dad."

"Not sure if I should take that as a compliment. He has no hair now."

Kyle self-consciously rubbed his scalp then realized he was doing it and stopped.

"Come on Gege, let's get in line!"

Destiny pulled Gerard away from Kyle and got in line. She ordered a banana split with the works.

"I share with Kyle. It is like our little ritual."

Destiny laughed then looked down quietly.

"I don't see him much anymore except for Sunday dinner and even then he has his girl with him. She doesn't like me."

Gerard furrowed his brow and looked back at Kyle.

"Why doesn't his girlfriend like you?"

"I don't know. Every time he comes over with her, she wants to be alone with him, but that is the only time we get to see him. Especially me since I am still in school the longest out of all of us."

The man returned with their ice cream, and Gerard laughed at the size of the dish.

"Here Dizzy, let me grab that for you."

Now Gerard understood the girl’s signature on her texts. Kyle appeared and took the dessert from both of them then brought it over to the table. He sat down and patted the seat next to himself for Destiny to take. She sat down as he took the spoons and after breathing on them, hung one on each of their noses. Destiny laughed and let it sit for a moment then grabbed it and dug in.

"By the way Gege, that shirt looks familiar."

Gerard giggled and tugged delicately on the collar.

"It should, you picked it out Des. You were just a baby, but you knew what you liked. We both really liked this blouse."

"Holy shit!"

"Dizzy..."

"Sorry Ky. I mean, wow, I can't believe you still have it!"

Gerard laughed.

"I still love it... I haven't worn it in years, but it's one of my favorites."

"So... you are married again?"

"Diz!"

"What, I just want to know what he has been up to for the last ten years, that's all."

"Yeah, no, it's okay Kyle. Yeah, I'm married. He's a nice man, and I really think he's..."

Gerard trailed off and chuckled light heartedly. He looked at Kyle and gazed into his green eyes. He really did look just like Billy, and it made him feel weird... Talking about his husband to his ex-husband’s children.

"What does he do?"

"Diz, I think that Gerard is uncomfortable talking about this."

"But, I have to know! I have to know what this guy has that dad didn't! I have to know why he left us. Does he have children too? Are they better than us? Do they behave more?"

Destiny started to cry a little and wiped her tears away. Kyle mouthed sorry to Gerard. Gerard spoke quietly.

"Destiny... It's not like that. I... Your dad and me-"

He cut himself off and took a deep breath. No. He didn't want to talk about that right now.

"How 'bout I get you another ice cream?"

He stood up and gestured towards the window.

"I know what happened."

***Kyle***

Gerard looked at Kyle as he looked up slowly.

”There was no way, no one was home that day.”

"I did not have my last class, and decided to come home early. I called out, but no one heard me. Not surprising from all the arguing and yelling."

Kyle sighed and tipped his head back. He knew that the memory would be as vivid for him as it was for the man across from him.

"Please Kyle, tell me. Tell me what happened."

Kyle took a breath and looked at his little sister.

"Gee caught Pops with another woman, I mean, sorry Gee I wasn’t saying you were one, I...."

That was all Kyle needed to say. The memory came crashing down like a tidal wave.

"Look, I'm sorry Gerard, but it just got boring. All you ever do its what I tell you. You have no opinion for yourself, and I need that."

Billy looked at Gerard, and spoke to him like that with the other woman still in their bed.

"Opinion? You want my opinion? I can give you an opinion William... I think you're an asshole. I think you're a fucking piece of shit!"

He pointed at Billy sternly and then looked at her.

"And you! You're a fucking whore... You don't love him or the kids. You're a low life whore who'll never find happiness!"

"*smirk* I found yours didn't I? Look sweetheart, some men need more than an ass to stick their cock in. With me he has several choices. Just agree that the better woman won, and walk out with some dignity."

"That's enough Ronnie! Look Gerard, I already called M. It's over, I'm sorry. Just get ready, the car will be here in a bit to take you back to the House. I'll figure out something to tell the kids."

Kyle watched his father turn his back and return to the bed. The other woman kissed him, ignoring that Gerard was still in the room. Kyle watched as Gerard just stood there. He could hear the man's heart breaking. Then he slowly walked out of the room. Kyle move quickly to hide around the corner. He watched as Gerard passed the bar and grabbed a bottle of something. He finished it off then smashed it against the wall. Then like the true wife he was, grabbed a broom and swept the glass to the side. Kyle reasoned that it was the kids he was thinking of. Lately Gerard had been sleeping in a different room from their dad because Adam was having nightmares. Gerard went into the room and closed the door. Kyle crept forward, and could hear Gerard crying and asking why over and over again.

”Yeah, so that's what happened. Just so you know Gee, she stole a shit load of our money and disappeared. Pops felt like a fool and cried for you, but honestly, he did not deserve you after treating you like that. Afterwards he stopped drinking, and even laid off the pot. He got all spiritual and well, he is the same now as he was, but better."

Gerard took a seat again and looked Kyle in his eyes.

"R-really? He cried for me?"

"Yeah and his stupidity. Honestly, you were the best thing that ever happened to him."

Destiny looked up at Kyle.

"I never knew. Wow. I was an idiot. I thought the he left because I was bad or something. Forgive me Kyle. “

Destiny turned to Gerard.

”Gerard, my father was a fucking idiot. No wonder he has not had a date since then."

Gerard looked down and frowned.

"You shouldn't talk about your father like that. He was wrong, but he's still your dad."

"No in this case she's right, even if she is still cursing."

Kyle lightly smacks Destiny on the back of the head.

"Ow, jerk."

"Yeah, you know you love me."

The two siblings smile at each other. Then they both turn back to Gerard.

"So, I hope this does not mean that you don’t want to hang out with us anymore?

"No, I kind of like having you around again."

Kyle reaches out and touches Gerard's hand on the table.

"It really is good to see you doing well and happy Gee."

Gerard grinned at his ex-step son.

"I definitely wanna see you guys again. I missed you all so much and yes, I've never been happier."

***Time Stamp: Friday June 15th***

***Frank***

It took Frank a while to notice, but Gerard had changed in the last month. He was happy. Really happy. He would whistle in the kitchen as he cooked, but the meals were less than stellar recently. Also the house was little by little getting dirty. He still cleaned it, but he seemed to put less effort into it. Gerard also seemed to be doing more shopping lately. Frank and Gerard had separate Amex cards, but they were on the same account so when Frank checked the records for something that he recently purchased, he noticed Gerard spending money too. He saw that a lot of it was clothing from private boutiques. One was from a place that sold adolescent clothing. Also Gerard had been to the movies, out for late lunches or early dinners. Hell, he even went to a skating rink. At first Frank thought that he was with Spencer, but one day Spencer called looking for Gerard Frank had come home early and Gerard was not there. He knew he only had a half day of work too and was going to surprise him. That is when the house phone rang.

"Hello?"

"Oh, hey Frankie, uh is Gee there?"

"No, I assumed he was with you."

No, I have not seem him in a few weeks now."

"Oh, I did not know."

"Yeah and I called his cell, but no one picked up."

"Well I will tell him you called."

"Yeah thanks Frankie, bye."

Frank hung up just as Gerard came in the door. He had a few bags in his hand and was whistling again.

"Hey baby, Where've you been?"

Gerard stopped whistling immediately and looked to where his husband was standing and gasped dramatically.

"Honey, you startled me."

Frank rose brow at him and Gerard realized he hadn't answered his question.

"Oh! And uh... I've been out..."

He trailed off, heading up stairs quickly. Frank watched Gerard hurry up the stairs. He left one of the bags at the bottom when he came in. Frank went to grab it and bring it, when he decided to look in it. It was clothing, but it was different than what Gerard normally wore. It was a little younger, hipper style. Something a teenager would wear. He reasoned that maybe Gerard had gone shopping for Kat. He brought the bag up to the bedroom where Gerard was hanging up some other clothing that looked like what Frank had.

"So, more clothing huh?"

"Mhm... I've been in that kind of mood lately. New me, new wardrobe, ya know?"

"Yeah, I noticed a bit of a change in you. I was just a little worried, that's all."

Frank handed the bag to Gerard.

"So, I came home early to surprise you by taking you out to dinner."

"Oh... Out to dinner? Where'd you have in mind?"

Gerard asked quietly, pushing aside his jacket collection.

"Um...I don't know. Maybe Italian?"

Frank could see that Gerard was not really listening to him.

"Oh and Spencer called. He said he has not seen you in a few weeks. He was worried you were working too much."

"Italian... I saw Spencer a few days ago. We went out for cocktails-- uh, I think it was a few days ago. I can't remember. I've been so busy."

"No, I am pretty sure it has been a few weeks. He tried calling your cell, but you never pick up anymore he said. Check and you will see quite a few messages and I bet texts too. You missed a lot of mine also. Is everything all right Geebear?"

Gerard yanked his cell from his back pocket and swiped at the screen. He did have a shit ton of messages and missed calls.

"I... I've just been a little busy, Frankie. Everything's okay. I promise. Italian is fine. Let's do Italian."

***Time Stamp: Monday June 18th***

***Gerard***

Gerard's in the kitchen, preparing Frank and himself dinner. He really did feel about not spending time with him like he used, so he wanted to make it up to him. As he starts to set everything up his phone goes off, vibrating in his pocket. He sighs in annoyance and pulls his phone up to his face. Kyle's name is what pops up and Gerard immediately turns the stove off and rushes to his office in case he needed the dock.

"Hello?"

"Hey Gee, uh, do you have a minute?"

"Of course, sweetie. What's the matter?"

"Um....I kind of have a problem and I don’t know who to ask about it. I mean Pops isn’t exactly full of great love advice , you know?"

Gerard kind of chuckled at that bitterly.

"I know. You know you can tell me anything."

"All right, well look. I have been dating this girl, Chelsea, for about a year and we still uh...we still have not had sex. I mean we fooled around and foreplay and all, but just not the act and it’s notherwhdoesn'twantto."

Kyle slurred his last words together, like he was afraid of saying them out loud so Gerard didn't catch the last bit. He pushed his hand through his hair and took another deep breath.

"What was that last bit?"

Kyle sighed on the other side.

"I said that it isn't me who is pushing, it's her. I said no and keep saying no."

Gerard hummed and nibbled on his bottom lip. His girlfriend was pushing him for sex...? That could mean only one thing, right? Gerard whispered his next question, soft and quietly--motherly almost.

"Kyle... Are you a virgin, sweetie?"

"What!? I of course not! How could you think that?! I'm 23 for Christ sakes!"

"Okay, okay... I was just asking. It's okay if you are... Ya know, it's not a bad thing and I did say you can tell me anything."

Gerard spoke supportively. Kyle hesitated for a moment and then sighed.

"All right Gee, yeah, I am. I mean I have dated since high school, but I just never....you know."

"No, I totally understand. So your girlfriend's trying to push you into sex? Have you talked to her about being a virgin?"

Gerard needed to get all of the details out of Kyle. How else is he going to help the boy?

"Uh...no? Duh, why would I tell her that, it would ruin my rep you know?"

Gerard rose a brow at that.

"So you'd rather just deny her sex without an explanation?... Kyle, she's your girlfriend. You have to be completely honest with her."

That's when it dawned over Gerard. He had an idea and the tiny light bulb in his head lit up.

"Hey... How 'bout we do a role play? I'll be Chelsea and you just be yourself."

Gerard walked over and set his cellphone on its dock. The phone's on speaker now and Gerard stands up, slowly, awaiting Kyle's response.

"Okay, so how do we do this? I mean do I start or do you go or..."

"Ahhh... I'll go first. I'm gonna' ask you why you don't want to sleep with me and we'll just take it from there... Cool?"

"All right, go ahead."

"Okay.. Here we go: Kyle. We need to talk."

"Why Chelse, what's up?"

Gerard thought that her nickname was cute. He took a deep breath and continued.

***Frank***

”Baby, I’m home.”

Frank was tired. He had a shit day and was looking forward to the proper home cooked meal that Gerard promised him tonight. They had a wonderful night of making love and then again in the shower this morning. It felt really good and he felt that Gerard had really been in tune with him for the first time in a while. It bothered Frank that Gerard was so different.

”Hey baby, you around?”

Frank ducked in the kitchen and saw everything set up for dinner, but nothing cooking yet. He wondered if Gerard was in the bathroom or the bedroom. He made his way across the living room and saw that Gerard’s office door was open. He made his way over, but stopped short when he heard Gerard. He sounded like he was talking to someone or on the phone.

”Hey Geebear, I…”

Frank stopped in mid-sentence when he heard what Gerard said next. He stood riveted, not believing what he was hearing out of his wife’s mouth.

***Gerard***

"We need to talk about us... About how you never want to have sex with me. I always have to make the first move and you never seem to be interested in me. What's wrong? Are you not attracted to me or something? "

Gerard was pacing back forth now, getting seriously into character.

"No of course not sweetheart, I just think that we are rushing into things. We need to get to know each other more."

"Know each other more? We've known each other for a year. I think that's enough... Really Kyle, what's wrong? Is it me?"

"No no no, it's not you, really it's not. I just...I don’t think we are ready yet.”

Gerard wracked his brain as he tried to think back to a time where he'd been told something like that before... And nothing really came to him. He'd never been turned down for sex so he needed to be believable.

"Please Kyle... Please be honest with me. Why don't you want to fuck me? I love you and I want us to make love. I want it to bring us closer together..."

He trailed off, releasing a shaky breath. He felt bad for putting his ex-stepson in this kind of situation, but he wanted him to be ready for the real thing for when it finally happens.

"I-I-I-I love you too, but I just....I can't right now. I just can't."

"Why?! Just tell me! I'll love you no matter what... I'll--"

"You fucking Bitch! How could you do this to me!

Gerard turned around and saw Frank in the doorway with a red face.

***Frank & Gerard***

"You fucking Bitch! How could you do this to me!?"

Frank walked in the room. more like charged in. Gerard was standing in the middle of the place with his hands on his hips. At first he was smiling and then it quickly changed to concern. Gerard looked around, confused and scared as his husband stormed into his study.

"Frank... What's wrong?"

Gerard, for some strange reason, didn't think Frank was talking to him. His Frankie would never call him a bitch.

"What's wrong? What's wrong?! Did you really fucking ask me that you deceiving Jezebel!? This whole fucking month something has been wrong with you. The new clothes, the attitude, even your fucking hair. My dinners have been shit and the house is a fucking wreck and now I know why!"

Frank pushed Gerard into the desk.

"You've been cheating on me!"

Gerard braced himself, pushing his hands flat down on the surface of the desk. He shook his head frantically and whimpered.

"N-no! I'm not... It's not what you think! This is my ex step son!"

"That is fucking sick Gerard Way! Trying to get your step son to sleep with you!? Are you that fucking desperate?! What, my cock was not enough for you. Hell I even let you have Pete, Spencer, and Ryan and still you went to another!?"

Frank crowded Gerard against the desk.

"Frank!"

Gerard shouted, huffing and puffing.

"No! We were role playing! I'm not cheating on you!"

He reached out and pressed his hand against his husband’s shoulder and attempted to push him back a bit to give himself more space in between them.

"Don't fucking touch me!"

Frank pushed Gerard away hard and he bounced slightly off the desk and to the wall next to it. Frank paced back and forth getting angrier. He looked at the desk and saw the lap top. He picked it up and shook it in front of Gerard.

"I bet you are not even really going to school are you!? I bet you are using this to fuck around with other guys. Well guess what Slut, no more!"

Frank threw the lap top at the wall just as Gerard flinched. It nearly hit him as it made contact and smashed to the ground. Gerard gasped, looking down at the smashed machine.

"F-Frank... You're insinuating again. Please... Please just fucking listen to me. I'm not cheating on you. I would never fucking cheat on you!"

Gerard backed up into the corner of the wall. He feared for his safety for the first time in this marriage. He knew how Frank can be when he didn't listen to reason--couldn't listen to reason. Frank continued to pace. He ran his fingers through his hair like he was thinking hard.

"You know what, I should have fucking listen to M, when he told me that you were ambitious. He knows you better than I ever would. Maybe I should have treated you like all the others. No Job, no school, just kept you home to cook, clean, and fuck. Maybe that is how it will be from now on if I don’t ship your ass back to M. in a fucking box!"

"No! You fucking can't! You're being crazy! You're being just like my ex-husbands!"

Gerard screamed, pressing himself hard against the wall.

"What the fuck did you just call me!?"

Frank grabbed Gerard by the arm. He squeezed as he pulled the frightened man to him and breathed heavily in his face.

"Maybe now I understand why they treated you the way they did, but I NEVER treated you like that so don’t you dare fucking compare me to those low lifes!"

"No, you never have, but when you do finally start you'll be just like Scot--"

*crack*

The sound of flesh meeting flesh echoed through the room. Frank held his hand out as it finished its arch connecting with Gerard's face. Gerard crumbled to the ground clutching his cheek and sobbing. Suddenly the room filled with another younger voice.

"Gerard! Oh my fucking God! What has this monster done to you!? I am coming over there right now and picking you up! You are not staying there any longer! I can't believe you're trying to help me and my girlfriend got you hit!"

"What?"

Frank looked at the phone and the voice streaming from it.

"Yeah that's right asshole! He was trying to help me, but you, you close minded shit head you would not listen. Now I am taking him from you. You will never lay a hand on him again! Gerard let's go get up and get your things! I will be there in 10 min."

Gerard blinked hard, he can already feel his eye swelling and it was making it hard for him to see. All he can do is clutch his face and cry in disbelief. It happened. He knew it eventually would.

"P-Please... Hurry Kyle."

Gerard sobbed, getting up off the floor with wobbly legs. He grabbed his phone and pressed it off as he left the room, cradling his face with his free hand. Frank just stood there and him go. He did not grab him or try and follow him. He just stood still.

***Gerard***

Gerard charged up stairs, still crying hysterically. He grabbed a suitcase from the back of the closet and yanked a few of his clothing off the racks and threw them on the bed. He wiped his face vigorously and stared at his clothes, crying and trying to wrap his brain around everything that just happened.

"Fuck... Fuck. Fuck..."

He panted, crouching down on the floor once he started to actually register everything. He pressed his hands to his face and started to take deep breaths. The anxiety was washing over him and this panic attack was no fucking joke. He couldn't breathe and when he pushed himself off the ground he got into bed and buried his face in the pile of his clothes. Breathe... Just breathe... And he did just that. Gerard heard the front door thrown open and Kyle charging in.

***Kyle***

"Where is he you son of a bitch? If you hurt him anymore, I will...."

At that moment Gerard came down the stairs with the suitcase. His husband Frank had come out of another room with a dazed look on his face.

"I-I'm ready."

Gerard told Kyle, walking pass Frank quickly. Kyle grabbed Gerard's suitcase and ushered him out of the house. He piled him in the car and then ran around the other side. As he was getting in Frank appeared at the doorway. He looked at them. Kyle flipped him off and drove away.

*

*

*

It was past dinner by the time they got to Kyle's house. The whole way there Kyle could tell that Gerard wanted to cry, but he didn't. He just kept looking out the window and sighing now and then. His father's car was in the driveway when they arrived. He knew he had to say something to the old man, but first he had to take care of Gerard. Kyle got out the car first he grabbed Gerard's suitcase and opened the door for him. He held Gerard by the arm as the made their way to the house.

"Does it look any different than you remember?"

Gerard shook his head, shuddering a bit. He whispered, looking around.

"It looks the same..."

Kyle did not think that small talk was going to be possible, but he tried. They walked in the house and Kyle led him through the living room and down the hall to the stairs.

"Kyle, that you?"

"Uh, yeah Pops. I just."

"It's late, you didn’t call and...Gerard?"

Shit Kyle was hoping his dad was in the office, but no he was in the kitchen instead.

"Look Pops, let me just settle Gerard in and I will come talk to you."

"Settle him in, is he staying?"

"Later okay?”

Kyle turned away from his dad and continued to led Gerard to the stairs.

Gerard turned to Kyle and grabbed his arm.

"I'll tell him."

"No Gee, you are too fragile. I tell you what, why don’t you go get settled and changed and we can all sit down together?"

Kyle brought Gerard to the guest room near by his and Stephan's. He left Gerard and went back downstairs to his dad.

"Kyle..."

"Not yet Pops, wait for Gerard."

***Gerard***

Gerard sighed once Kyle left him alone. He changed into a plain black blouse and fixed his appearance in the bedrooms bathroom. His cheek was slightly bruised, but not too bad. His eye though, that was pretty swollen. No make up was going to hide that. He was numb as he started to go downstairs. Billy and Kyle were quietly sitting at the dining room table and Gerard wondered if they had talked about him at all.

"I'm... Better now."

Kyle pulled a seat out for Gerard. It was next to Kyle, but across from Billy. Billy looked up at Gerard and his eyes widened. He knew that he saw the bruises. He also knew that Billy was remembering when he caused those kinds of marks on Gerard.

"Gerard, I…you can stay as long as you need to. I don’t want you going back there if it is not safe for you."

"I... I appreciate it. I really do."

Gerard was speaking quietly as he avoided Billy's eyes. He knew Billy was looking at the bruises.

"All right, hey you two how about some food. I was just making myself a late dinner, but I have enough for all of us."

Before any protest can be said Billy goes into the kitchen and in a few moments returns with three bowls of fresh salad on a tray each topped with rolled cheese and meat.

"It's not a perfect chef's salad, but at least the dressing is homemade."

Gerard smiled weakly and took one of the bowls.

"T-thanks Billy."

The three sat and ate in silence only the sound of the utensils scrapping the bottom of the bowls. When they were done, Kyle took the bowls to the sink. Billy finished his water and then stood up.

"Well, I have work tomorrow. Going to check out a prospective ball player from Rutgers. If he is good, we might pick him up. Night you two."

Billy headed to the door. He turned back before he walked out.

"Hope you sleep well Gerard."

"Y-you too, Billy."

"Well, I still have class in the morning so I need to turn in too. Do you need anything else?"

Gerard could see that Kyle did not want to leave him, but he knew that the boy still had his own responsibilities.

"No. I'm good sweetie. Thank you for everything."

"All right, well then sleep well."

Kyle carefully leaned over and kissed Gerard's cheek. He then left the room and left Gerard alone with his thoughts.

***Time Stamp: Friday, June 22nd***

***Spencer***

Spencer was pissed. It had been over a month since he had spoken to, let alone seen, his best friend. Gerard never called him back when he left messages, and now his voicemail box was full. He stormed over to the house, and opened the door without caring to knocking.

”Gerard Iero, where the fuck are you!?”

”Mrs. Wentz?”

”Charlie? Louie? What are you guys doing? Where is Gerard?”

”Uh… well… we don’t know.”

”What?”

Louis ran a hand over his receding hairline then let out a long breath.

”A few days ago Mr. and Mrs. I got in a big fight. Apparently Mr. I misunderstood something and well…”

”Lou, it’s okay.”

Louis looked at Charles, and let him continue.

”He hit him.”

”Who, wait... Gerard hit Frank?”

Spencer looked at the two men, and gasped covering his mouth.

”I’ll fucking kill him!”

Spencer tried to charge into the house but Louis grabbed him, preventing any further entrance.

”He isn’t here! He’s at a conference in Vegas. He has not been here since that day.”

”So where is Gerard?!”



”I saw him leave with a young man.”

Spencer crumbled to the ground. His best friend, he let it happen again. He did not protect him and here he was selfishly angry because Gerard had not called him. Spencer heard a familiar sound ring through the house.

”That’s Gee’s phone.”

”Yeah, he left it here, it rings then hangs up.”

Spencer got up and went into the living room. He followed the sound to the office, and gasped at the way it looked. Gerard’s desk was shoved against the wall. His laptop was in pieces, and the dock for the phone was hanging by the wire off the desk. The phone was on the floor by the upended coffee table. He picked it up and looked. Over seventy-five messages and texts combined. Work, Stan’s personal line, himself, Kassie, and a few random ones. None from Frank, He went through the sent calls and found the last number he called. Taking a chance he dialed it.

”Hello?”

”Hi, uh, you don’t know me, but I am calling from Gerard’s phone and…”

”Yeah, I can see that.”

”Look, I really need to find him. Do you know where he is?”

”Depends, are you with that son of a bitch?”

”No, Frank isn’t even in the state right now. Please, I am so worried about him. Just tell him that Spencer wants to see him, then call me back.”

”I will think about it. Bye.”

The voice hung up, and Spencer just sighed. He hoped this guy was on the up and up, and actually talked to Gerard. Spencer could do nothing but wait now, like he had been doing for weeks.

***Time Stamp: Sunday, June 24th***

***Gerard***

Gerard's locked away in his bedroom. He has been for days. He has hardly eaten anything, he hasn't been sleeping much, and he hasn't spoken to anyone. Not even Destiny. Gerard's lying in bed, curled up in fetal position in the dark. He's trying to close his eyes. He's trying to sleep so he could forget about everything, but he can't. Gerard sighed loudly, and flipped himself on his back just as he did he heard a knock at his bedroom door.

"Who is it?"

"Hey, It's Kyle. Sorry to bother you, but I have to talk to you."

Gerard sat up slowly and climbed out of bed. He went to his bedroom door and unlocked it, but he didn't bother to open it. Instead, he went back to his bed and lay back down. Kyle walked in quietly. He looked at the room and, Gerard knew what he was thinking. It was a mess. He had not cleaned it since he came, but he just did not care. The meals that Kyle had brought him sat mostly untouched. He knew the young man worried about him, thus making him feel guiltier.

"Hey Gee, uh, so do you know a Spencer?"

Gerard perked up a bit at his best friend's name.

"Y-yeah... I do. He's my best friend."

"Yeah, well uh he called me, and wanted to talk to you but I was not sure if I should let you."

Gerard sat up slowly, and took in a deep breath.

"I... I do want to talk to him... I'm just... I'm so confused. How did he get a hold of us?"

"You left your phone and apparently he traced the last call that was made by you. He's a pretty clever guy huh?"

"Oh... I knew I was missing something and yeah he is."

"Yeah, so he seemed really anxious to see you. Do you want to see him?"

"Y-yeah. Of course I do."

"All right, so should I tell him to come here or..."

Gerard didn't have to think about it. Of course he wanted Spencer to come over.

"Yeah. Here is fine. Do you need to ask your father?”

Kyle looked at Gerard.

"Gee, Pops said whatever you need is fine with him. I will call Spencer back, and let him know he can come over. I will give him the address."

Kyle touched Gerard's shoulder lightly then left the room.

***Time Stamp: Monday, June 25th***

Gerard was rushing around the kitchen frantically. Today was the day Spencer was coming over, and he was nervous as hell. He was trying to make sure everything was perfect from the strawberry daiquiris to the avocado sandwiches. He had quadruple checked everything, and noting that it was perfect, he calmed down a bit... Up until the ringing of the doorbell echoed all around the house. Gerard rushed out of the kitchen. First he yanked off his apron, and fixed his hair. When he made it to the front door, he slowly pulled it open.

"Gee..."

Spencer was frozen for a moment. Then he cried out, and wrapped his arms around Gerard.

"I am so sorry that I was not there for you. I don’t even know what to say. I should have been there to protect you."

Spencer started crying and slumped to the floor. Gerard immediately carried him up, holding him tightly.

"It's not your fault, Spence. It's not..."

He petted his head as he whispered into his ear.

"I feel like I should have been there. I mean I know we were not talking much during the month but..."

"No, no, no... Don't feel guilty. You were busy with your husband, and I was busy spending time with my ex-husband's kids... My kids. If it's anyone's fault it's mine. I never told Frank I was seeing them."

"Yeah I get that, but why the kids? I mean it has been ten years, I am surprised that they even remembered you."

Gerard knew that Spencer was not trying to be mean, but he needed to understand how this all happened. Gerard sighed, showing Spencer into the kitchen.

"Yeah. Me too. I was at the grocery store, and it was actually the youngest, Destiny, who recognized me. You should have seen my face."

Gerard chuckled light heartedly.

"Huh, well I guess she is a pretty smart kid. So what happened, how did you end up with Frank hitting you? I mean Frank? I never thought he would ever do that?"

Gerard started for the tray of food on the counter. He picked it up then carried it to the dining table. He winced as he heard Spencer mention the act of violence.

"He, uh... I was talking to Kyle... Um, we were roleplaying a conversation. I was pretending to be his girlfriend and he was himself... And yeah. That's that."

He didn't want to go into too much detail. It still hurt to talk about it.

"So once again Frank's inability to control his temper got him in trouble, only this time he is really going to regret it."

Spencer walked over to Gerard and hugged him.

"I am so sorry Gee, I thought he was different, I mean fuck, you made it four years plus! I just... fuck."

Gerard nodded stiffly, still in Spencer's embrace.

"Yeah... Me too."

He whispered, resting his chin on his best friend's shoulder.

***Time Stamp: Saturday, July 7th***

***The Iero Kids***

”Hey Dad, Mom were home!”

Kat and Kody walked in to a silent house.

”Where is everyone?”

”Yeah, both dad and mom have off on Saturday.”

”Maybe they’re on a date?”

Gabe came in struggling with the luggage. Kody went over to help him. Kat walked around the place. Something felt off. The place was clean, but not in a homey way. It felt superficial. Industrial almost.

”Something is wrong here. It smells like chemicals in here.”

Kody walked over and peered in the kitchen.

”Same in here.”

He went to the fridge to grab and drink. Inside it was practically empty. There were a few take out cartons and bottles of water. No milk, eggs, or any other essentials.

”They might have gone shopping, I mean there is no food in the fridge.”

”That does not sound like Gerard.”

”Hey guys, come look at this!”

Kody closed the fridge and followed the sound of his sister’s voice along with Gabe. They heard it coming from Gerard’s office. They walked in and stopped short.

”What the fuck happened in here!?”

The room was a wreck. The furniture was pushed around and Gerard’s lap top was in pieces on the floor. Kody walked over and picked up a piece of it.

”This didn’t just fall, this was destroyed by force.”

”Dad, it had to be him.”

Kat ran out of the room and up the stairs. She burst through the door of her parent’s bedroom. The bed looked like it had not been slept in in weeks. The sheets were covered with a fine dust. She tore open the closet. There was stuff missing from Gerard’s side. She checked the bathroom. All of his toiletries were gone. Kat did not realize that she began to scream till she was wrapped in Gabe’s arms.

”Kat Kat, calm down, what?”

”He’s gone! Gerard is gone!”

”What!?”

Kody burst in the room and looked around like Kat did. He pulled out his phone and tried Gerard’s number.

”I’m Sorry the number you have reached has a full inbox. Thank you. Goodbye.”

”He’s not answering his phone and the inbox is full!”

Kat was sobbing now.

”I’m calling Spencer.”

Gabe led Kat to the vanity and sat her down. It was bare and all of Gerard’s make up was gone. It was also covered with dust.

”Yeah yeah, okay, yes please. Thank you Spence.”

”What did he say?”

Kody let out a blood curdling scream and punched the mirror on the closet door.

”THAT SON OF A BITCH!”

Gabe let go of Kat as she shrunk back from her brother’s violent reaction.

”Kody man, chill, you scaring your sister!”

”HE FUCKING HIT HIM!”

”What? Who?”

”THAT BASTARD! HE HIT GERARD!”

”What!? When?! Why?!”

Kody was trying to breathe and calm down.

”They had a fight over and misunderstanding and dad hit Gerard. Bruised his cheek and gave him a black eye! Spencer said that a friend came and picked him up and he has been gone ever since.”

”Wait, then where is dad?”

”Who gives a shit! I hope he is fucking hell getting raped! How could he lay a hand on Mom!?”

Gabe and Kat came over to Kody as he sobbed on the floor. The three of them huddled together till he was able to speak again.

”Spencer gave me the address of where he is. He told me that we should go over there and he would explain more to us.”

”Does he know where dad is?”

”Apparently he went to a conference in Vegas and when he returned he stayed in his office downtown. He has not returned to the house since Gerard left. I don’t even think he knows where Gerard is.”

”All right so we will go see Spencer tomorrow and then go see Gerard.”

They all agreed and left the bedroom and then the house.

***Time Stamp: Monday July 9th***

Gabe pulled up into the gated estate, and brought the car around the circle to the front door.

"Are you sure you want to do this?"

"No, but I need to."

"Yeah man, we have to find out what exactly happened between Gee and dad."

"Do you want me to come in with you?"

Kat looked at her fiancé and smiled.

"Of course love, you are just as much a part of this family as Gee is."

Kat kissed Gabe softly, and Kody sighed in the back.

"I miss Rob... and Matt... and Dexter,,, and..."

"All right Kodes, we get it, you get a lot of ass."

Kody kicked the back of Kat's seat and Gabe laughed.

"All right, let's do this."

They all got out of the car, and went to the door. Kat took a deep breath then rang the doorbell.

”Yeah, can I help you?”

"Hi, um... we are here to see Mrs. Ie... uh, is Gerard in?"

There's a loud crash coming from the kitchen, and the guy at the door sighed.

"Gerard is in the kitchen. Are you The Iero children?”

"Um... yes?"

”Yeah, Spencer called me about you coming over.”

Kody was really nervous. The guy was looking at them with a bit of a condescending attitude. The guy gestured for them to come in and Kody jumped when the doors closed behind them. He led them through the dining room, to the kitchen door.

”He’s in there.”

Gabe looked at Kat, who looked at Kody, who looked back at Kat. She sighed and pushed the door open. On the floor was Gerard trying to clean up a mess of flour and eggs. He was silently cursing, and Kat did not know what to do. Finally it was Gabe who cleared his throat, and caused Gerard to look up. He looked like he had seen a ghost.

"Uh... hi Gee."

Gerard was no longer scrubbing at the mess on the floor.

"K-kids...?"

He stammered, blinking up at Kat and Kody with giant saucer eyes.

"Oh my god!"

He pushed himself up off the ground and started towards the children with open arms.

"Gee!"

The kids ran over to him while Gabe stood back respectably. Kody towered over Gerard, but Kat fit snuggly in his arms, much like Frank used to.

"Gee we came home from school, and we... I mean what happened? Dad does not even know where you are! We found out from Spencer and..."

Kody was talking frantically a mile and minute, but Kat was strangely quiet. She looked at Gerard, and tears welled up in her eyes.

"Gee, you are supposed to be my maid of honor."

Kat began to cry and Gabe stepped up and wrapped her in his arms.

Gerard wanted to apologize and explain what had happened. He just couldn't bring himself to do so in that moment. Instead, he pulled Kat into a tight embrace, after Gabe had released her, and buried his face in her soft, nice smelling brown hair... Then came the flood of remorse and apologies.

"Kat... Kody. I'm s-so sorry... I'm so fucking sorry... "

He wasn't even going to mention Frank putting his hands on him. He didn't want the children to turn against their father.

"You have to believe me. It's all just a huge misunderstanding."

"Fucking asshole, why the fuck didn’t he just listen to you!?"

Kody stormed out of the room. He needed to calm down.

"I still can't believe it.”

Kat got up and walked out after Kody. Gabe just sat there and stared as his fiancée walked out. He looked at Gerard.

"Um... wow, I just... wow"

That really wasn't what Gerard had expected. He did not expect Spencer to have told them everything.

"Don't... Don't be mad at your father. I know how he can be... It was pretty bad. You guys weren't there... I don't blame him for jumping to conclusions."

"HE STILL SHOULD HAVE FUCKING TRIED TALKING TO YOU FIRST!"

Kody was fuming. If he was not in someone else’s house, he would have broken something. He came back in with Kat holding him tight.

"You know what? We do not blame you one bit Gee, not at all. I just... I hope this does not mean that you will not be friends with us after you divorce dad."

He grabbed Kat's hand and squeezed it.

"I'll never stop being your friend. And I'll never stop loving you... No matter what happens between me and your father, okay?"

"Wait, what happens? Are you seriously still thinking of going back to that piece of shit!?"

Gerard had never heard Kody talk like that about his dad, and he was not stopping. Kat chimed in her thoughts.

"I do not want to forgive him, and I can only imagine how you feel right now."

Gabe placed a hand on Kat's shoulder and pointed to his watch.

"Oh shit, that's right. Sorry Gee, we have to meet Jamia for planning out the details of the wedding. I would have you come with us, but..."

"N-no. I-it's okay..."

Gerard was still thrown off by how his step children reacted. Gerard just hoped they didn't take that rage to their father. He didn't even want to imagine that chaos.

"I'll walk you to the door."

He started towards the foyer, and they followed behind him until they were in front of the large double doors. Gerard pulled them open, and watched his step children and Gabe step out.

"Thanks for visiting and listening to my side of the story guys... It means a lot to me."

Kat and Kody hugged Gerard tightly. Even Gabe got a hug in this time. They walked to the car, and Gabe held the door for Kat. Kat waved lightly at Gerard then got in. Kody tried to smile through his anger, but Gerard could see him having trouble.

"Bye Gee."

Gabe called out and waved. He started the car and headed to the entrance of the estate. They drove away all wondering what will happen now.

***Time Stamp: Friday, July 13th***

***Pete***

”Hey Vicky, no I really don’t care if he wants to see me, I am going in.”

”Well I ain’t gonna stop you. He won’t let me in to clean up the office, and it is starting to smell from all the fast food he has been eating.”

Pete was surprised. He thought that Frank would have given Vicky instructions not to let anyone else in. He took the elevator up to Frank’s office. When he arrived the hallway had a stench to it. He saw the great double doors open and walked in. Frank’s clothing was everywhere, along with old take out containers. No evidence of alcohol, but Pete figured that Frank was not that stupid. Oh he was stupid all right because of what he did with Gerard, but not enough to fall off the wagon after over fifteen years. Pete heard a loud burp come from the bathroom and watched as Frank walked out. He looked like shit.

”Man Iero, I would say you look like shit, but I think you look worse.”

”Fuck off Wentz. Get the fuck out of here.”

”No! What the fuck is going on with you?! No one has heard from you for the last month!”

”I’ve been busy working.”

”Bullshit, you’ve been busy hiding.”

Frank flipped him off and collapsed on the sofa. His shirt rode up and Pete saw that he had the beginnings of a belly. He had not been taking care of himself.

”I have been doing a lot of conference calls. It’s summer so all the bands are on different tours.”

”Yeah and usually you would be with them with Gerard.”

”Yeah, well that is not fucking happening in the foreseeable future now is it!?”

Frank’s words dripped venom as he grabbed an egg roll off the table, and bit half of it off. Pete noticed that the assortment of food on the table was not even all vegetarian. So Frank fell off one wagon, but not as serious of one.

”Frank, can’t you just admit what you did wrong, and settle this with Gerard?”

Frank jumped up and pushed Pete hard. He lost his balance and landed on the floor even hard.

”YOU DON’T THINK I FUCKING WANT TO!? I DON’T KNOW WHERE THE FUCK HE IS OR HOW TO GET IN TOUCH WITH HIM!”

Now Pete was pissed. He got up and punched Frank in the face. Frank reeled back and landed on the sofa.

“THIS IS WHAT THE FUCK IS WRONG WITH YOU! YOU AND THAT FUCKING TEMPER! THIS IS WHY YOU LOST HIM!”

Pete readied himself to be hit back, but Frank stayed seated. He looked at the ground and slumped his shoulders in defeat.

”My own kids won’t talk to me. They hate me, and Kody fucking punched me just like you did.”

Frank began to cry silently. Pete came over and touched his shoulder lightly.

”I should have listened to him. I should have believed him. I don’t even know where he is or if he is even safe.”

”He’s fine and safe.”

Frank looked at Pete and reality came crashing down.

”Oh, okay.”

Frank continued to cry and Pete climbed on the sofa, and pulled Frank into his arms. He rocked him in the silence of the office.

***Time Stamp: Sunday, July 15th***

***Mixed POV’s***

Destiny watched as Gerard moved around the kitchen. It had been a month since he arrived, but he was already settling in. She just wished that it was under better circumstances. Gerard was really being careful about this meal. He seasoned the roast perfectly. The scalloped potatoes were also cooked perfectly. The vegetables and salad could not have been presented better, and right now the room was filled with the smell of the fresh baked bread coming out of the oven. Gerard put it on the counter carefully, and took his gloves off.

"They really mean a lot to you don't they Gege. I mean I have never seen you go through this much care in preparing dinner before."

Gerard turned his attention to Destiny and smiled at her. A small knowing smile.

"I love them very much. They're my family. Just like you are."

Gerard ran his fingers through the little girl's fringe before tucking it behind her ears.

"I'm really excited."

*ding dong*

"I got it!"

Adam ran out of the living room to the door. He opened it and saw three people.

"Hi, uh I'm Kat, This is my fiancé Gabe and my brother Kody."

"Hi, I'm Adam, Gee is expecting you, come on in."

The three guests walked in and the central air hit them.

"Oh that feels nice, It is hot as balls outside!"

Adam looked up when the girl spoke out. He was not accustomed to hearing anything like that, especially from a girl.

"Y-Y-Yeah, it is pretty bad isn't it."

"Man, you are telling me. Fuck, I need a drink."

"T-T-This way to the kitchen then."

Adam led the group through the living room to the dining room. The table was laid out for Sunday dinner with three extra places.

"Hey Gee, your guests are here."

Gerard quickly rushed into the dining room, grinning madly.

He grabbed Kat and Kody into big hugs, and kissed both of their cheeks affectionately.

"Hey guys... I missed you so, so much!"

The kids start laughing, and Adam can't help but feel a little jealousy towards them. He watches as the other guy gets pulled into the awkward hug too. He is much taller than Gerard and it just looks silly.

"Ah Gerard, is dinner ready... Oh your guests have arrived. Hi, I'm Billy, and I am sure you have met Adam and Destiny. The other kids will be here soon. Kyle took Stephan for SAT practice."

The group broke up and everyone looked at their dad. It was a tense moment till the tall one walked over, and shook his hand.

"Nice to meet you Billy. I'm Gabe and this is my fiancée Kat, and her brother Kody."

Billy was in the middle of shaking Gabe’s hand when a noise came from the front of the house.

"We're home!"

The door opened, and the bustle that was the rest of the family piled into the house. Louise broke away from the group, and walked up to Gerard.

"Look who I got for you!"

Adam watched as Gerard lit up to see Louise hand him her daughter. Gerard cooed the little baby and smiled at their dad.

"So how many are you actually?"

"Um, well there are seven of us. Louise and Blair are both married, Rachel is engaged, and Kyle has a girlfriend."

Kody nodded at this as he watched Gerard with the baby. Gerard was cooing at the baby, kissing her chubby cheeks and petting her blond hair.

"I'm glad you guys got here safe."

Kody looked around at everyone talking and whistled

"Man Gee, when you said Sunday dinner with the family, I never expected this many people. I don't even think dad has this many people... Oh man, sorry Gee, I didn't mean to..."

Kat slapped Kody upside the head.

"You fucking dumb ass, why the fuck did you say that?!"

Everyone stopped talking and turned to face them. Gerard frowned and shook his head.

"It's okay. No need to hit him, Kat. Let's all just sit down to eat."

Gerard took his seat and watched as everyone did the same.

"Well this is nice. You guys do this every Sunday? I wish my family was like this."

"Well thank you Gabe. Yeah it is kind of an old tradition in the family. We passed it down, and hope to keep it going."

"Well I know that Blair, and I will make it happen as much as we can."

"Actually, I have an announcement. It looks like Mark will be getting that promotion so..."

"Wow, London huh?"

"Yeah, but it would be a great opportunity for us."

"Well Blair, we will miss you, but we also support you."

The whole family agreed and Billy stood up.

"To Blair and Mark, may your venture be worth all that you want it to be."

"Hear hear!"

Everyone clinked thier glasses together and smiled.

Billy turned to Gerard and lifted his glass to him next. Gerard smiled weakly, and lifted his glass to Billy. His eyes skimming the older man’s face, he can see the pride in there. The kids were quiet. They ate looking at their plates. The conversation continued with their family, but Adam watched as they did not even talk to each other. Adam looked at the rest of his family, and noticed that Kyle was scowling. He kept giving the Iero's dirty looks. Adam knew that he was going to start something with them.

"So, you have no family dinners at your house?"

The kids looked up when Kyle spoke to them. Kat wiped her mouth after putting her fork down.

"Un no, well, we used to go to boarding school so we were away most of the time. I mean when Greta..."

"Who's Greta? I thought you had no other siblings?"

Adam saw that Kyle was trying to catch them lying. Kat cleared her throat and continued.

"She was our mom."

"Was? Is she dead?"

"Kyle!"

"What Pops? I am just trying to get the facts straight."

Gabe leaned over and rubbed Kat's back. She took a sip of water before continuing.

"She might as well be. When she left us, she never looked back. Gee here, is closer to a mom for us than she is."

Gerard looked between the kids, and patted his lips with his napkin.

"Guys. C'mon... Can we change the subject? Billy. How has work been?"

"Oh, well you heard about us thinking of the recruit from Rutgers earlier, and one of our teams is up for a couple of rewards for coaching, and..."

Adam saw that Gerard was surprised. He looked at his dad and saw him laugh.

"Ah Gerard, gone are those days where I just came in and out of the house, saying nothing at all. Sunday dinner is a time for sharing news and information. I am a lot more forthcoming now. No more secrets."

"Speaking of secrets, so how long did you know that your dad was beating up on Gerard?"

"W-W-What!?"

Gerard spluttered and adverted his attention to Kyle.

"He didn't beat on me Kyle, and we're not talking about that here."

Kyle fully faced them now, and the rest of the table dropped into a dead silence.

"While you were off in your little boarding school, your dad was mistreating poor Gee here. Maybe he was beating on you too. I mean if my dad did that I would not want to be around either and..."

"For your information fuckface, it was our mom's idea to send us away not our dad. He hated that we were boarded."

Kody began to rise from his chair. Kat placed a hand on his arm.

"Kodes, chill..."

"No Kat, I will not sit here, and listen to this piece of shit make comments about you."

"Wait what?"

Destiny turned to Kody, definitely scared of the man now towering over the table.

"You are mad at what Kyle said about you sister, not your dad?"

"You're fucking mistaken to think I'm not thoroughly pissed at that man. If I was home when it happened, I would have knocked the son of a bitch out myself! He is lucky that I have not been home since I found out!"

"Wait, Kodes you have not gone home?"

"No, I went and shacked up with that one shot I had before I went to Europe. You did not want me alone in the house with that man. He would have ended up in traction."

Kody pushed his chair back then turned to Gerard.

"Sorry Gee to ruin your Sunday dinner, but we are fucking out of here!"

Kody turned to go when Adam reached out with bravery he did not have, and grabbed his wrist. Kody looked down at him.

"Uh... please don't go. Mama Gee made an amazing cake for us and you will miss it."

"Um... I don't think we are wanted here kid."

Gerard was close to tears right now. He didn't want the kids fighting about what had happened between him and Frank.

"You're wanted here. Kyle, no more talking about it. It happened. It's over. End of discussion."

Kody reached over and touched Gerard's shoulder. Adam could tell that he really felt bad for his outburst.

"Man Gee, I am really sorry. I just, please don't cry mom."

"N-no... I'm fine. Really. Please, just try to get along."

Gerard sniffled, wiping the corners of his eyes with his napkin.

"Hey, how about we take care of the cake, and you just sit and relax?"

Kyle got up and started for the kitchen.

"Coming man?"

Kody looked at Kyle.

"Yeah sure."

The two disappeared in the kitchen. It was still quiet till Destiny spoke up again.

"So they call you mom, huh Gege?"

Gerard chuckled.

"Y-yeah... They always have."

Kyle and Kody returned a few minutes later with cake. It now had writing on it that was not on it before. They set it in front of Blair and Mark, and smiled when she gasped.

"It was Kody's idea."

Whatever happened in the kitchen, the two young men seemed to be alright. Blair was now crying, and the boys went and sat back down at the table. Kyle lifted his glass to Kody and he did the same back. Blair cut the cake and handed slices out. Everyone agreed it was a good ending to Sunday dinner.

***Time Stamp: Saturday, August 4th***

***Spencer***

”How is he?”

”Well I got him to shower, and start eating properly, but he gained so much weight in the last two months. He really does not look the same.”

Spencer and Pete pulled up to Frank’s house. There was a gardener taking care of the lawn. Louis was putting what looked like a finishing wax on the car. He waved at them as they walked the pathway to the house. Pete knocked, and Charles let them inside.

”He’s in his study.”

”Thanks Charlie.”

Charles smiled at them, and they entered the house. The place seemed empty without the kids and Gerard. They made their way through the living room and den to Frank’s main study. Pete knocked on the open door, and Frank looked up then gave a weary smile. They walked in and Spencer went directly over and kissed Frank on the head.

”Hey Frankie, how are you?”

”Getting stuff done. You?”

”Oh I am all right.”

”Is everything good?”

Spencer knew that Frank was referring to Gerard. They still had not told him where he was. Spencer was beginning to think this was a mistake, but he respected his best friend's wishes.

”Everything is good too.”

”Good good, I am glad to hear it.”

Spencer sat down while the men talked about business. He studied Frank while they talked. He was looking scruffy, and he could see the weight gain. Spencer knew that Frank was still eating take out, but at least he was back to the veggies again. He was nowhere near as sharply dressed as he used to be. Frank was in sweat suits and sneakers, just bum around clothing. He did not have any meetings because of the summer tours, but he had not gone to any of them like he used to.

”Pete, how about we get some drinks?”

”Sure sweetheart. What would you like Frankie?”

”I’ll take a coke, oh and can you grab the chips, and salsa in the cupboard?”

”Sure Frankie.”

Pete and Spencer left the room and headed into the kitchen.

”He really looks awful.”

”I know.”

”Don’t you think that he has suffered enough? Maybe it is time for Gerard to come back and talk to him.”

”I tried, but Gerard won’t talk to him.”

”I’ll keep trying to talk to him, and if that does not work I will go visit with the kids next time. Either way I will get him to listen. I think this has gone on long enough.”

”I hope so babe, because I do not see Frank bouncing back from this anytime soon.”

***Time Stamp: Saturday, August 18th***

"Is that his car?"

"*sigh* Yes Spencer, just stop and try to be excited to see Gee."

Spencer tried to be, he really did, but it had been two weeks and nothing. Spencer had begged and pleaded with him, but he never even tried to contact Frank. Pete and Spencer had been dealing with the aftermath at the house, but Gerard had been living the high life with his fucking ex. It was hard to believe that Gerard was really here for the kids only anymore. Spencer was now getting really pissed.

"Well we might as well get this over with."

The kids groaned and got out of the car. As they made their way to the door it flew open, and a young girl came running out.

"Kat!"

"She barreled into Kat and hugged her tightly."

"I was able to play the whole song! I never thought I would get through it!"

Kat patted the girl on the head.

"That's great kiddo! See I told you that it would work!"

The girl grabbed Kat's hand and dragged her up the stairs.

"Hey Gege, the Iero's are here!"

Spencer turned to Kody.

"The Iero's? What isn't he one anymore?"

"I don’t know Spence can we just..."

At that moment Gerard appeared in the doorway. He was wearing one of the aprons that Frank gave him.

"Hey guys."

Gerard beamed, wiping his hands dry on his apron. His eyes landed on Spencer and he smiled weakly at him. They had not had a good phone conversations lately.

"Spencer..."

"Gerard."

Kody looked at both men, and was about to say something when another boy came out the door.

"Kody my man, come on, we got a sweet game going and... Um, hi?"

"Kyle this is Spencer, a good friend of Gee's."

"That remains to be seen."

Spencer kept looking at Gerard, but not moving.

"Right... so let's go Kyle."

"Yeah, sure."

Both boys left, letting Gerard and Spencer be alone.

"Um, do you want anything to drink?"

"Yeah, I guess."

Spencer walked into the house past Gerard. He looked at the place. Even though he had seven kids, Frank's house was still bigger. He walked into the living room and noted the plainness of the everything. This guy had no taste at all. Spencer heard laughter and followed it. Kody and the other boy, Kyle, were engaged in a racing game. They were pushing each other, trying to get the other to crash. They were laughing and having a great time. He did not see Kat or the girl anywhere. Spencer turned back, and headed towards the kitchen where he saw Gerard go.

"What do you have?"

Spencer noted that there was not a place to sit here like Frank had in his kitchen. He leaned against the counter and waited. He knew he was being nit picky, but the whole situation was really starting to irk him now.

"Well, I made lemonade... There's diet coke, some wine, and... Well, water."

Gerard tried laughing a little.

"I can make you a margarita too, if you want."

"Margarita sound fine. Guess having alcohol in the house is no big deal now huh?"

"Did I hear the M word?"

An older girl came into the kitchen, and kissed Gerard on the cheek. She went to the cupboard and pulled out some popcorn. She tossed it in the microwave while she chatted with Gerard as he kept busy making the drinks. By the time the popcorn was done, Gerard had expertly poured six margaritas. He put four on a tray for the girl, and apparently for the boys in the living room. She kissed him again and waved at Spencer then left. Gerard brought the drink over to Spencer and then started to clean up the mess that was left behind.

"So... How's everything been?"

Spencer took a sip of the drink. It was perfect as he suspected it would be, but it left a bitter taste in his mouth for other reasons.

"Oh you know keeping busy. Taking care of friends who are devastated that their wife has not called them, or that he has no idea where he even is!"

Gerard looked up from the mess and rolled his eyes at Spencer. This was an ongoing argument between them, and it was getting old.

"Spence... He hit me. You have to understand, I just can’t get over that, even if I love him."

Spencer moved from the counter over to Gerard. He softened up a bit, and reached out to touch Gerard's face.

"Yeah Gee, I know he did, but like I keep saying, you have no idea how much he is regretting it. How much he beats himself up over it. Frank is sick with worry over you, and no I have not told him where you are because it would kill him."

Spencer watched Gerard lean into his touch. At least it showed that the man had been loyal. In fact he is pretty sure that Gerard has not even touched his own cock since the breakup. He’s starved for attention.

"Besides, aren’t you back with a man that used to do the same except he never felt guilty for it?"

Gerard pulled from Spencer’s touch, and shook his head frantically.

"I'm not with Billy, I'm just staying here and besides, Billy's different now. He really does regret it, and he's a better person now."

"Oh ,so Billy can regret it after dumping you for a random slut. But Frank who is a fucking mess, and only hit you once, can't ever be a better person? He is not allowed to regret it? Man Gerard, you have some fucked up priorities."

Spencer takes the drink and pours it into the sink.

"Sorry, I’m not thirsty anymore."

Spencer goes to leave the kitchen and bumps right into a man with no hair.

"Oh, excuse me, are you all right?"

The guy goes to grab Spencer from the collision, and he flinches back.

"I suppose you must be Billy."

"Yeah, and you would be?"

"No one important apparently. You seemed to have taken that place."

"Excuse me?"

"You heard me. You may think you are pretty slick, rescuing Gerard from what happened to him, but I can remember the marks you left on him physically and emotionally. They did not heal for months after you dumped him. I am surprised you can even look him in the face."

"Spencer! This is fucking different. You can't keep bringing up the past. It's all anyone ever fucking does anymore. I'm here and Billy's nice enough to let me stay under his roof. Fucking deal with it!"

He screamed, turning red in the face as he hurried out of the kitchen. Gerard wanted to grab Spencer to shake some fucking sense into him.

"You know what Gerard Way? You can go fuck yourself! If you can't see what you had then you do not deserve it! Have fun in your new life with your new family! It is all you will ever have!"

Spencer pushed past Billy and headed for the door.

"I can't speak for my husband, but you and I are through! Go find another best friend! Oh wait I forgot, you don’t need friends do you!?"

"Spencer wait!"

Kody came running over after hearing the commotion with Kyle following close behind him.

"No, you and Kat stay here, I will call Louis to come pick me up down the road. I just can't be here."

"Spence..."

"Go on kiddo, have fun, he's good for you."

Spencer kissed Kody sweetly on the lips then left the house. Kody touched his lips then looked at Gerard.

"I am so sorry Gee, I had no idea that he would..."

Gerard could feel it coming. He could feel his eyes stinging, his nose stuffing up, and his bottom lip was trembling.

"No... I-I'm... I'll be right back."

Gerard whispered shakily and rushed up stairs quickly.

***Billy***

*knock knock*

"Gerard? Hey are you all right?"

Billy came to the bedroom door, and after knocking lightly, he opened it to see Gerard crumpled on the bed sobbing wearily. He walked over and rubbed his back lightly.

"Easy, it’s okay, He was just angry. I can understand him not believing that you are here because of the kids. It is easy to jump to conclusions considering our past."

Gerard shuddered violently and shook his head.

"T-they always see me as the f-fucking bad guy, Billy... Everything I do is so fucked up."

He cried even harder.

"Shhhh, easy Love easy. Why don’t you get some sleep. I think a nap will do you some good. I will see to the kids."

Billy helped Gerard move to the head of the bed, and get under the covers. He untied Gerard's apron to hang it over the door of the closet.

”Billy wait.”

Billy stopped at the door.

"Yes, Love, what is it?"

Gerard sat up, slowly and wiped his eyes. He smiled a genuine smile at the older man.

"T-thank you... For everything."

"You're welcome Love, now get some sleep."

*

*

*

***Gerard ***

Gerard lie in bed, trying to fall asleep. His eyes were closed, and he took in deep breaths. He couldn't stop thinking about Spencer... And Frank. Spencer said Frank was devastated. He wanted to know how devastated he was. Was he like Gerard? Numb and in shock? Or was he... Gerard let his train of thought crash right there. No, he didn't want to feel bad. It's Frank's fault he left. Frank even told Gerard if he ever put his hands on him that he could leave. Frank fucking said that. Gerard just wanted to abide. He finally gave up on his nap and hopped out of bed. He adjusted his clothes then started for the bedroom door. Gerard slipped out quietly, shutting the door behind himself. He could hear chatter coming from the living room as he slowly went downstairs.

"So you gonna marry her?"

"I don’t know. I just... she is so pushy, but I love her."

"Really? How do you know that?"

"I feel really happy when I am around her and we are just hanging out. I mean as long as she is not trying to... you know."

"Um dude, you seem to be really happy with me, and we are just hanging out."

"Yeah, but it’s different with you."

"How so?"

"I don’t feel any pressure from you to be something that I am not."

"Oh and she makes you feel that way?"

"Yeah. I can’t describe it. Rachel said that I will grow out of it eventually. That it is part of being scared to make a commitment. She said she was like that with her fiancé till one morning she woke up, and just knew she wanted him and only him."

"So do you want her?"

"Ah... oh hey Gee."

Gerard realized that Kyle and Kody were in deep conversation about Kyle's girlfriend.

"Hey guys."

Gerard spoke groggily. He cleared his throat.

"Any idea where your dad is?"

"Yeah, check the Sports room. I think he is going over papers for some potential drafts."

"Thanks."

Gerard smiled and started in the direction of the Sports room. He could hear Billy murmuring to himself about work. Gerard knocked quietly and waited for Billy's consent to enter.

"Come in."

Gerard entered, slowly and quietly.

"Hey Billy... D'you have a minute?"

"Sure Love, what can I do for you? Wait, weren't you taking a nap?"

Billy rose from his desk and crossed over to him, offering his hand.

"I couldn't fall asleep... I mean, I kinda dozed off, but it didn't last long."

Gerard took Billy's hand daintily.

"I've got a lot on my mind, and I was hoping I could talk to you about it all."

"Of course Love, please sit."

Billy led Gerard to the sofa and turned off the wide screen television. Without the ball game on, the room was very quiet. Billy returned then sat down next to Gerard on the sofa, but facing him.

"A lot to deal with these past two months huh?"

"Y-yeah and I feel terrible about involving you in all of this drama."

Gerard touched his ex-husband's knee hesitantly.

"I hope whatever Spencer said to you it didn't... Ya know, bother you."

"Gee, they are going to think what they want to think about me. I know that you are here for the kids and that is fine. Also, I like Frank's kids, and they are always welcome in my home no matter what happens."

Billy reached down and covered Gerard's hand with his.

"Is there anything else?"

"I..."

Gerard paused and looked down at Billy's hand.

"I want to ask you a question, well more like an opinion.”

"Of course Love, ask me anything."

"Um, w-what should I do? Should I call Frank... Or...?"

He really wanted Billy's advice. He wanted to know his point of view on the situation. Billy sighed then picked up Gerard's hand, the one with his rings on it. He touched them, and Gerard flinched slightly.

"Gee, I can't tell you what to do. Unfortunately, you have been in this situation before. With me no less, and I am sure with another husband since Frank did not come right after me. You have to give yourself time to think then make a decision."

"But... What would you do?"

"I don't know Gerard, I really don't. A month later when I realized the mistake of letting you go, I did call the House and tried to talk to you. Sadly by then you had already been bought again. That is when I realized that there are no second chances, and that you have to live life to the fullest every moment you get."

Gerard pulled his hands out of Billy's grip and inched back a bit. His eyes urgently scanning the older man’s face, searching for solace.

"You... Called the House? Oh god..."

He pressed his hand to his mouth. He felt sick. M. never told him about that... He never told Gerard that Billy wanted him back. Now he wondered if he would have given Billy a second chance... Would he have forgiven him and accepted him back in his life as his husband? Billy could see that he upset Gerard. Without thinking he reached out and grabbed for Gerard, pulling him to his chest.

"Shhhhh, easy Love, it's alright. Things happen the way they do for a reason. if we had not parted I would have never seen what I was doing to you and my family. It was the reason I dropped that life and went on to a better one. Now I treat my kids with more respect than ever, and I have cleaned up my act. I don’t even drink that much."

Gerard buried his face against the man’s chest, and he nodded sternly against him.

"Y-you... You could have saved me. You could've have protected me. Y-you didn't."

Gerard pulled himself away from Billy, and shook his head slowly at him.

"Fuck."

He cried, still shaking his head.

"What are you talking about? Saved you? Protected you? I was the one hurting you."

"Don't you fucking get it?!"

Gerard yelled harshly at the confused man.

"My fourth husband was a monster... If you didn't hit me... If you didn't c-cheat on me... If you had been like Fran--"

Gerard cut himself off and took in a deep, shaky breath. He didn't mean to say that. He was just upset. Gerard fucking loved Billy... Even through the abuse, he still cared for him. At the time he couldn't imagine not being with him... But Frank made him feel like that now.

Fucking circles.

"Sorry."

"Shhh, it's okay. Too much to take in right now. Hey, why don't I go make us some popcorn, and we can watch a movie. How about Pretty Woman?"

"Uh, yeah... Sounds good."

Fuck he felt so stupid.

"I'm really sorry, Billy. I am."

Gerard repeated again.

"No apologies Love, we all make mistakes. It’s what we learn from them that defines us."

Billy kissed the top of Gerard's head then left the room.

"Fuck."

Gerard murmured aloud to himself. He could see it coming. Could feel it... Love.

"I'm so fucked."

***Time Stamp: Friday, September 7th***

***Billy***

It had been a long day where nothing went right. Billy was exhausted. Truth be told at that point he liked the idea of not coming home and having to cook dinner for everyone. Maybe just himself, but Gerard always made enough, and put some aside for him.

"I'm home."

Billy walked in, and all the lights were off. He could see the faint glow of candles coming from the living room. He wondered briefly if the power went out, but as he passed the kitchen, he saw the digital time on the stove. He kept up towards the living room, and stopped when he arrived. Gerard was sitting on the couch. He had a deep glass of red wine, and saw him holding a piece of black material. It sparkled a little in the candle light.

"Gee?"

Nothing. Billy move forward more, and as he got closer he saw that the black material was a long dress... But something seemed to be wrong with it.

"Hey Gerard Love, what do you have there?"

Gerard looked up at Billy with wet eyes and sniffled. He took a sip of his wine before speaking.

"This, uh... It's just my dress from Frank and mine's one year anniversary."

He took another sip of his wine. As Billy sat down next to Gerard he motioned to see the dress. Gerard nodded and Billy took it carefully. It was made of fine material. It had a cinched waist too. Billy never cared to put Gerard in that much woman's clothing. He never denied that he was a man, but if Gerard felt like wearing a dress once in a while, he was alright with it.

"So Frank liked you in dresses huh?"

Billy continued to look at the dress and noticed that it was ripped down the front.

"Uh Gee, why is it ripped?"

"It was a, uh... We were--"

He motioned with his hands and then giggled weakly.

"Frank's passionate."

He slurred a bit. He choked on a sob as he tried to trap it in the back of his throat.

"Passionate?"

Billy continued to look at the dress. He could not figure out what passion had to do with ruining a garment. As stupid as it sounded, logically he had no reason to rip it since he could just lift it up to get at... Billy tried not to think about that.

"I'm sorry, I just don’t get it. I mean he rip..."

Billy got a closer look at the dress and realized that it was not a rip. There were not frayed edges. No, this dress was cut.

"Gee why... he cut it?"

Gerard groaned, wiping his tears with the back of his free hand and fell against the sofa, chugging down his wine.

"We were making love, Billy. It happened all the time... He'd rip my clothes off of me. In this case he handcuffed my hands behind my back, and in order to get it off he had to tear the dress."

"Oh... I uh, didn't know you were into that kind of... Ten years changes a lot huh?"

Billy felt foolish for pressing.

"Well... Yeah."

Gerard said, sitting upright.

"A lot can happen in ten years."

"So... uh... Did it ever leave any marks? Sorry, that was wrong to ask, I just... you know we never and I never uh..."

Billy was sweating slightly now. He had images in his head that he should not have.

"Hey, I am going to grab some water, I'll be right back."

"Bring the bottle of wine."

Gerard called out to him, sticking his empty glass in the air.

"God knows I need more to drink."

Billy took a moment in the kitchen to compose himself. He splashed water on his face and patted it dry with a paper towel. Billy kind of lied back there, he had tried hand cuffs with that tramp he was with after Gerard. They were awful and they cut into her skin. She bitched him out and threw them at him. It was her idea in the first place. Maybe Gerard did not care if he got his skin ripped. Billy grabbed a bottle of water from the fridge then the bottle that Gerard had filled his glass with earlier.

"All right Gee, I got the..."

Gerard held the glass out and Billy could not help focusing on his wrists. He shook a little when he poured the wine out, but managed to not spill any outside the glass. He put the bottle down and took a big swig from the water bottle, choking slightly.

"Thanks..."

Gerard took a sip from his glass. After he was finished he set the glass down on the coffee table and looked at Billy.

"I can't believe it's been so long... 5 years."

Gerard was babbling now. The wine was going straight to his head. He was pretty sure his face was red, and his eyes were squinty.

"Five years? I thought you were only with Frank for four?"

Billy was confused now. Gerard released another choked sob.

"Today..."

He started whimpering loudly.

"Today's our anniversary."

"Oh fuck really?"

Billy covered his mouth. He never cursed like that. Apparently Frank must, especially if you could go by his kids, because Gerard really lost it at that moment. He buried his face in the fabric of the dress. Now it all made sense. The wine, the dress, the memories, Gerard must have be in so much pain. It had been three months since he came here.

"Oh Gee, come here Love."

Gerard's crying turned into wrecked sobs as he pressed himself against Billy. He just let himself go. He couldn't breathe. He couldn't think. He couldn't stop crying. He just wanted to be held.

"That's it, that's it Love, let it all out. You have been holding everything in for so long now. I can't imagine what you have been going through. Whatever you need, I'm here for you."

"I-I'm so... S-sorry."

He panted, trying to catch his breath.

"You s-shouldn't... You shouldn't have to deal with me."

"No I do. This is my way of making up for what I did to you all those years ago. I never should have treated you like that Gee. You were nothing but good and faithful to me, and I was nothing but a heartache to you. Now I can see what you went through back then, and I deserve it."

Gerard nuzzled his face against Billy's chest and he inhaled deeply.

"I really do forgive you. You're an amazing man. I can see that. I always saw the best in you."

Billy lightly rubbed Gerard's back. He patted it and helped Gerard up.

"So what are you going to do now?"

Gerard nibbled on his bottom lip and grabbed his glass of wine. He chugged it down. All of it... And then set it back down on the coffee table. He looked into Billy's eyes as he started to take his wedding rings off. Gerard fiddled with the band then took a deep breath.

"This."

He whispered, dropping the rings in the empty glass. He got up slowly and smiled a lopsided smile at Billy. He kissed him on the cheek.

"Goodnight."

Billy watched as Gerard walked off listing to the side a little. He was drunk, but not so bad as he could have been. Billy picked the rings up and out of the glass. He looked at them up close. They were pink and black diamonds, and the settings were very carefully chosen.

"This man really loves him."

Billy got up and went up the stairs to his bedroom. He walked over to his dresser then opened his top middle drawer. He took out a black box and placed it on top of the dresser. Billy opened it, and inside was his and Gerard's wedding rings. He never even gave Gerard an engagement ring. The ring was the basic one that M. gives all the husbands to give to the wives. It was cheap gold and very plain. He set Frank's rings next to his own. They paled in comparison to the sparkle that Frank's gave off. Billy closed the lid and placed them in the drawer. Gerard may not think they are important, but Billy knows he needs to keep them safe... Just in case.

"Night dad."

"Night Des."

"Is Gege gonna be alright?"

"Yeah, I think he is."

"I don't want him to leave again."

"I know sweetheart, but that is not up to us, that is up to him."

"Yeah, but Kyle said that man hit him."

Billy patted the bed and Destiny climbed up on it. He sat down next to her and took her hand.

"Yes, he did, but daddy used to hit Gerard too."

"Really? When, why?"

"When you were little, and daddy did not know that his drinking was bad for him."

"Kyle told me why he left."

"Yes, well you are old enough to know the truth. I was an idiot and I regret it all the time."

"So now you have another chance to make things right with Gege."

"That is not up to me to decide."

"Why not?"

"Because it is very wrong to try and go after someone when they are in a bad place. Gerard is vulnerable, and I could manipulate him. Then I would be no better than the other men in his life."

Destiny nodded her head in understanding.

"You are a good daddy. Gerard will see it again."

"We will see sweetheart. Now you have school tomorrow so off with you."

"Night daddy."

Destiny kissed Billy and left the room. Billy went to close his door when he heard Destiny talking through the door of Gerard's room.

"Night night Gege, if you need a cuddle buddy, let me know. I have lots of stuffed animals."

Billy thought about his daughter's words. He waited till she went to her room before leaving his own, and crossing over to Gerard's.

*knock knock*

***Gerard & Billy***

The knock at the door startled Gerard. He immediately stilled his crying and wiped his face aggressively and sniffed hard.

"C-come in?"

"Hey, um... Look, I know what you are going through... Well actually I don't but I made you go through this once before alone, and..."

Billy took a deep breath, He did not want Gerard to misunderstand him, but after hearing his daughter he decided to just go through with it no matter what Gerard said either way.

"Look, do you want to sleep with me? Not like that! Just not alone..."

Gerard blinked at Billy. He tilted his head to the side and looked the man up and down.

"Can I really?"

He started to stand up.

"Yes, so get dressed and knock when you are ready okay?"

Billy went back to his room. He took in a deep breath. He knew he was doing the right thing. He went and put on a two piece pajama set making sure to wear underwear. Even though he normally didn't, he wanted Gerard to feel safe and secure, that nothing was being planned. Billy would not take advantage of this moment.

Gerard had dressed quickly. He settled for his pink pajama shorts and his two sizes too big Batman shirt that fell down his shoulders all the time. When he was ready he went to Billy's bedroom door and knocked like he asked him to. Billy opened the door and smiled when he saw what Gerard was wearing. It reminded him of what the kids wore at sleepovers. He stepped aside to let Gerard in. Billy stood there while Gerard looked at the room. it was not set up the same as when he lived there. In fact Billy had gotten rid of the bed after he threw out that tramp. He did not want to remember what he did there with her. Then again it also meant that he did not have the memories of Gerard too. He quickly shook that thought off the went to the closet, and grabbed an extra sheet.

"So you sleep under the bed sheet and I will sleep on top with this one."

"Um..."

Gerard trailed off, climbing into bed.

"You don't have to do that. We can share."

"I would feel more comfortable. You are vulnerable right now Love, and I do not want you to regret trusting me for comfort."

Billy walked to the other side of the bed and lay on top of the covers. He settled the sheet around himself. He leaned over and kissed Gerard on the cheek.

"Good night Love, pleasant dreams."

Billy reached out and turned off the light. He settled into the pillow and closed his eyes, listening to the quiet breathing of the man that was once his wife. Gerard settled back, cuddling into the duvets.

"Goodnight to you too."

*

*

*

It was three in the morning according to the clock when Billy woke up drenched in sweat. He wiped his forehead off and looked over at Gerard. He was also covered in sweat, and had thrown off the covers. His black night shirt was saturated and so were his pink shorts. His hair was matted to his face, and the blond looked kind of sickly.

"Fucking central air."

Billy grumbled as he got out of bed and went over to the vent. He touched it and nothing. He went out into the hallway and it was just as hot. The whole system was out. He groaned and went back inside. Billy cracked a window a bit, but there was no breeze. Sighing he stripped out of his pajamas and got back into bed with shorts only. He was glad now that he suggested the sleeping arrangement that he did.

"Fuck this."

Billy stripped completely and went to the bathroom. He hopped in the shower and turned the water on cold. He yelped a little when it came out, but it felt good. He cooled off a bit. If Gerard was awake he would have offered the shower to him next. He toweled off and changed into clean shorts. Billy returned to the bedroom, but Gerard was still asleep. He grabbed a clean sheet and laid it down. When he was done with the sheet he climbed back into bed, and went back to sleep.

*

*

*

Gerard woke abruptly, drenched in sweat. He looked over at the time and it read 5:26am. He grumbled to himself a bit, wiping his hand across his sweaty forehead. Why the fuck was it so hot? Gerard sat up slowly and looked down at Billy. The man was wearing shorts. Gerard smiled and pushed his blankets aside. He hopped out of bed quietly and started for his bedroom. As he entered he undressed quickly and went to his dresser. He yanked open his pajama drawer and pulled out his black, silk gown. He stared at it for some time. He was debating with himself whether he should wear it or not. Gerard pulled out his other pajamas and sighed. They were all too revealing and borderline lingerie. It made him think of Frank... He settled with the gown and slipped it on. Gerard shyly headed back to Billy's room then climbed into bed. He lie down facing the other man and he watched him, smiling, until he drifted off into sleep.

*

*

*

Destiny woke up feeling icky. She was hot and sticky and it sucked. She left her room to find out why it was so hot. As she walked down the hall she passed Gerard's room. The door was open.

"Gege?"

She looked inside, but no one was there. Puzzled she left and headed to her original destination.

"Dad?"

Destiny knocked, but there was no answer. She slowly opened the door.

"Dad why is..."

She stopped and looked at he sight before her. Her dad and Gerard were in the bed together. He was lying on his back while Gerard was snuggled up to his side with his head on his chest. One leg of Gerard's was up and on top of her dad's leg. Destiny smiled and quietly closed the door. She padded her way back to her room.

"It's going to be an interesting time from now on."

Notes

Hi...*tentative wave* *deep breath in* Okay, so this chapter may have been hard for some of you to handle. Please understand that everything that ***Digdeepenough*** and I write has a reason and there is method to our madness. All we ask is that you hang on no matter how rough the journey gets. If you give up now, you will never know what happens will you? @~@