Hell if I know, part 3.

Part 2

I hear some rustling, and then one of them gets up. I recognize the footsteps. Jason.

I open my eyes and glance at the couch. Kirk's closer to me now. I let my eyes fall shut again.

"I came over to jam," he says into the silence. "We did some awesome shit. We made tape, if you want to hear it."

I shrug. "Okay." I don't bother to open my eyes. I know what he looks like. He's disappointed that I'm not showing more interest.

"I stayed over. Jason makes a good teddy bear."

I don't need to know this.

"And he's good with nightmares too."

"Maybe I should give him a try." Even I'm surprised by how choked my voice is.

"Maybe you should." His voice is soft, gentle.

I look away from him.

"James," he says tiredly.

Whatever else he might have said is lost as Jason comes back. "I left some towels and clothes on the counter for you if you want a shower," he tells me.

I push myself out of the chair. I walk to the bathroom even though I really want to run as fast as I can. I can feel their eyes on my back. I can hear the murmur of their voices. I shut the door on them.

Part 4