#tw whump of a minor
No. 12 - ANXIETY (Alt. 15)
Finn had been dreading his appointment. He knew he’d have to miss part of school, which was always fun, and Fao had promised him ice cream after. He didn’t pay any attention in his lessons throughout the morning, but his teachers put it off to his absences and nerves - Sheila had warned them in advance, just in case he tried any of his antics.
With Finn still getting used to everything, Fao spent a lot of time at home, commuting into uni where he needed to. It was easier, being around for him. He knew Sheila struggled, and it reassured Finn to have him around, too.
On a rare afternoon free of lectures, Sheila had asked Fao to take Finn to his appointment. There had been a meltdown that morning, apparently, though Fao had already been at uni by then. The promise of having Fao had supposedly calmed things down, so of course Fao was going to take his brother. He didn’t mind, not really, but he did worry about the possibility of another meltdown.
He arrived at the school early, and waited for Finn, hoping one of the teachers would make sure he met him. He didn’t want to spend ages searching for him when he’d locked himself in a bathroom or something equally as ‘on brand’ for Finn.
Finnwas escorted to the main office, made to wait by reception for Fao to get signed in. He tried a few times to disappear, but was quickly made to sit back down. Always a bundle of energy, Finn was even worse when nervous. His myos were off the charts and he felt sick to his stomach.
“Hey, kiddo. You ready to go? Got everything you need?”
He nodded, clutching his bag to his chest.
“Want me to carry your bag?”
“No.” He said quickly, gripping it tighter. “I’ve got it.”
“Okay, that’s alright.”
“Can we just go home?”
“I’m afraid not. But it won’t take long, and we’ll go for ice cream after. Promise.”
“But I don’t want to go, Fao.”
“I hate going too. But it’s for the best, and it won’t take long.”
He scuffed his feet. “But if it won’t take long, then there’s no point going."”
“Ah, doesn’t work like that. But once you’ve been you don’t have to go again for a while.”
"Until Steve finds something else wrong with me.”
“I know it feels like that sometimes.”
“I’m in every other week anyway.”
“You’re getting better, it’s just taking time.”
“Yeah, right.” He slammed the door for good measure. “Sure I am.”
“Hey, hey, don’t slam doors.”
“I’ll do what I want.”
Fao couldn’t help but smile. “A couple of months ago you weren’t strong enough to slam doors.”
“It was the wind.”
“Could have fooled me.”
He grumbled in reply. He didn’t have the energy to argue with Fao.
“You know I’ll stay with you the whole time, right?” Fao said, as they headed towards the car. “Can hold my hand if you want.”
“No.” He folded his arms in a huff.
“Oh, are we too cool for hand holding now?”
Finn scowled at him. It was his fault he was going to the hospital, Finn wasn’t just going to forgive him.
“That bad, eh? Oh dear.” He murmured. “How was school this morning?”
“Fine.”
“What lessons did you have?”
He shrugged. “Stuff.”
“Science? Maths? English?”
“Yeah.”
“What are you missing this afternoon then?”
“Stuff.”
“Such as?”
“Stuff.”
“Okay. You wanna hear about what I learned this morning?”
“Whatever.”
Fao sighed, and left it at that. Finn was obviously just worried, he always got grumpy when he was stressed out. He unlocked the car and opened the door. “Wanna throw your bag in the back?”
“No.”
“Want to keep it in the footwell?”
Finn just glared at him, climbing in and hugging his bag to his chest. He didn’t care for Fao’s attempts at conversation. If he really cared, he wouldn’t be taking him to hospital.
Fao just let him get on with it, getting in on the opposite side. “Seatbelt?”
An idea flickered. “If I don’t put it on, we don’t move.”
“No, Finn. Come on, put your seatbelt on.”
“No.”
“Please?”
“No.” He scowled at Fao. “I’m not going to and we’re not going.”
“We’ll get the bus then, if you won’t put your seatbelt on. And getting the bus means no treat after.”
Finn made a noise vaguely like a growl, knowing he wasn’t allowed to swear, and strapped his seatbelt on.
“Thank you.”
He huffed, a quiet ‘Dickhead’under his breath as he glanced at his brother.
“You know I heard that, right?”
He froze, a blush spreading up his cheeks. “I didn’t say anything.”
“You’re stressed, I’ll let it slide.”
“I didn’t say anything!”
“Mmhmm.” He said, starting the car.
Finn stayed quiet as Fao drove out of the school grounds. Even nervous though, he couldn’t stay quiet for long. “What did you learn at school?”
“Oh, you do want to know?”
He grinned sheepishly at Fao. “Maybe.”
“I learned about the liver.” Fao said, glancing over at his brother.
“One thing I didn’t hurt.”
“Y’know what, I don’t know if you did or not? Not badly, at any rate.”
“What happens if you do?”
“If you hurt your liver? Well, the liver is clever, because it heals itself.”
Finn listened intently to Fao rambling about his lectures, and he had to admit it did take his mind off the looming appointment. Once at George’s, he clammed up again, refusing to leave the car. Of course, it wasn’t a surprise to Fao, it never was, and all the extra time had been factored into the travel time. Finn was eventually persuaded out of the car in exchange for Fao’s hoodie from the backseat, which he quickly wrapped himself in.
Together, they headed up to neuro, Finn silently sneaking his hand into Fao’s as they walked.
“What do you want for after?” Fao asked, as they made their way down the corridor.
“To not come here again.” Finn said quietly.
“I know. But you’ve got to pick a treat too. A new dinosaur? Ice cream? Something else?”
“I’m too old for dinosaurs.”
“Too old for dinosaurs?!”
“Yeah.”
“Never too old for dinosaurs.”
“I am.”
“Steve likes dinosaurs, and he’s even older than me.” Fao said, steering Finn into a chair to wait.
“He’s ancient.” Finn murmured, stiffening at the mention of Steve.
“Not too old for dinosaurs though.”
Finn shrugged. He didn’t want to talk.
“Ice-cream for after, then?”
“Maybe.”
“Have a think, yeah?”
He nodded and lapsed back into silence. It was almost half an hour before his name was called, by which point the butterflies in his stomach had turned into quetzalcoatluses. He felt sick and dizzy, and wasn’t convinced he wasn’t going to have a seizure.
They followed the nurse through, who was very chatty and tried to calm him down while she did his observations. All completed, he was sent back into the waiting room for Steve.
Fao was blathering on about something, Finn wasn’t paying enough attention to actually figure out what he was saying. If he got told off, he’d blame it on his absences - it wouldn’t be the first time.
He kept trying to breathe, but he couldn’t seem to take any air in. The bit he did manage did nothing. He was only growing more dizzy, his hands and feet tingling. He was going to die.
Fao could tell Finn was struggling. His questions to his younger brother went unanswered, and it wasn’t absences. Fao could tell from his breathing, the way he fidgeted. He moved to crouch in front of his brother, a hand on his knee.
“Finn? Look at me?”
Finn slowly raised his head, his breaths coming in short gasps. He needed out. He couldn’t do it.
“Hey, hey. You’re okay. I’ve got you, I’m here.” Fao soothed.
He shook his head. None of it was okay. He was going todie and Fao didn’t even care.
“Shhh, shhh. Focus on me, yeah. You’re gonna be okay, just a little panic attack.” He soothed. “It’s alright. Just look at me, yeah? I’m right here.”
Just?? Finn shook his head, pushing his brother away. “Get off.”
“You’re okay. Can you focus on me? Just me, nothing else that’s going on. You’re safe, you’re alright.”
“No.”
“I know, Finn. I know it’s scary. I’m not going to let anyone hurt you, it’s okay.”
It wasn’t okay, how could he keep saying that? His eyes darted around the room, trying to find a way out. Fao wasn’t helping, nobody was.
Fao took Finn’s hand. “Here, I’m right here with you. Look at me? Just try and slow your breathing down a little? Just a tiny bit for me.”
“Get off!” He shoved Fao away as hard as could. “Getoff!”
“Alright, okay.” Fao said, glancing around the waiting room. He took a step back, letting go of his brother’s hand.
He could feel everyone’s eyes on him, and he couldn’t take it. He needed out. He stumbled to his feet. He didn’t have a choice.
“Sit down for me, Finn?” Fao said gently. “We don’t need to go anywhere yet.”
Finn couldn’t hear Fao through the rush of blood in his ears. He squeezed his eyes shut to stop the dizziness, his hand instinctively coming out to try and balance himself.
Fao came alongside him, half reaching for him. “Come on Finn, let’s sit down.”
He shook his head. He wasn’t staying.
“You’re okay. Come and sit down with me?”
“No.” He shook his head. “I’ve got to go.”
“You don’t have to go anywhere, it’s okay. We can stay here.”
“No.Please.”
“You’re safe, it’s okay.”
“I’m dying.”
“You’re not, I promise. Take my hand?”
“You’re lying.”
“I’m not, I’m really not. Promise.”
Finn looked at Fao. The room was spinning and his legs felt like jelly. He whimpered quietly, too stubborn to reach for him.
Fao stretched his hands out. “Come on, Finn. It’s okay.”
“It’s not.”
“I’m right here, let’s go and sit down, yeah?”
He shook his head. Sitting down meant his appointment and he couldn’t do that.
“It’s okay. Nobody is going to hurt you.”
“They will.”
“I promise they won’t, I won’t let them.”
His legs had started to shake, but he was still not giving in. “They will. Youwill.”
“It’s alright, come on. You’re okay.”
He gritted his teeth. He couldn’t do it any longer. With a whine, he reached for Fao, his hands gripping tightly onto him.
“That’s it, I’ve got you.” He soothed, pulling him in for a hug. “I’m here.”
Finn relaxed into him, exhausted and mentally worn out. He pressed closer, fingers twisting in Fao’s hoodie.
Fao picked him up, holding him close as he moved back to the chairs. “You’re okay. Well done.”
He scrubbed his face against Fao’s chest, rubbing his eyes with the back of his hand. He was still completely overwhelmed with everything, and didn’t know where he stood at all.
“I’ve got you. It’s okay.” Fao told him, rubbing his back.
His breath hitched again and he hid his face fully. He didn’t want to cry, and definitely didn’t want Fao to know.
“It’s okay. Take some deep breaths.”
For once, he did as he was told, and listened to Fao. He was safe in his arms, he knew that.
“Well done. It’ll help you feel better.”
Finn smiled slightly, glad of the praise. It helped that it was making him feel better, and he was no longer on the verge of passing out. He’d almost forgotten where he was until an all too familiar voice called out.
“Finn Daniels? Ready for your appointment?”
Fao rubbed Finn’s back and stood up. “It’s alright, I’ll carry you. C'mon, nearly done now.”
No. 6 - TOUCH AND GO
bruises | touchstarved | hunger
Harrison’s attempt at visiting the Daniels had - obviously - gone very wrong. He’d never intended to get in a fight, and certainly not with their newest foster kid. Though he wasn’t quite sure he was just a foster. The way he acted with Finn and Fred was more like family, like an actual son. Not that he knew what that felt like.
Sheila was Sheila. She always looked out for her kids, fosters or otherwise. She’d treat them as a member of the family no matter what. Although, making him sleep in the bathroom didn’t feel very much like family. And, of course, that had nothing to do with him vomiting all over the car. Not in the slightest.
He stretched out with a groan, squinting his eyes open. Fred was still on guard, sitting at the door to keep an eye on him. He wasn’t sure if he was checking he was okay or making sure he wasn’t going to cause more trouble, but the company was kind of nice. It was more than he was used to, anyway.
He slowly sat up, his muscles protesting and stomach twisting. He had nothing left to be sick, and hadn’t eaten in a few days, so put it down to hunger rather than anything else. He hoped it was.
Fred was asleep, arms folded across his chest as he was propped up against the wall. Harrison didn’t want to wake him, he knew he’d kept him up all night as it was. Sheila was off with Fao, he’d heard her go in to see him late the night before and hadn’t heard her come back out. It only added to the suspicion that Fao had been adopted.
He struggled to his feet, shutting the toilet door; he wasn’t going to piss with Fred watching. Although, judging by the fact he wasn’t in his clothes, he assumed he already had.
“Hars? You alright in there?” Fred rapped on the door.
He jumped. “Uh, yeah. Fine. Just pissing.”
“Alright. Let me know if you need help.”
“I’m not a child.” He snapped.
“It’s the most coherent you’ve been in a few days, excuse me for caring.” Fred retorted.
“Sorry.” He finished washing his hands before opening the door. “I’m okay.”
Fred offered him a smile. “Glad to hear it. Breakfast?”
He shook his head. “Not hungry.”
“Hot chocolate, then. Come on.”
Harrison groaned, but knew better than to disagree. He followed Fred downstairs, making his way into the living room. He grabbed a blanket from the pile Sheila always kept by the sofa and curled up.
Fred wasn’t long, bringing the younger boy a mug brimming with marshmallows and a little cream. He sat by Harrison, waiting for the boy to initiate any contact. They sat in silence for a while, Harrison drinking his chocolate slowly. Fred ended up turning on the TV to fill some of the silence, hoping to alleviate some of the awkwardness.
Harrison took his time with his mug, eventually placing it on the table beside him. He still flinched at the ceramic hitting the slate coasters, taking a moment to relax. He sat back and tried to watch the TV for a bit, but he just couldn’t settle. After a while fighting it, he slowly lay down, his back almost against Fred’s leg.
Fred took his time, but slowly and carefully moved to rest his hand on Harrison’s shoulder. “There you go, kid. Just chill. You’re safe now.”
No. 5 - I’VE GOT RED IN MY LEDGER
betrayal | misunderstanding|brokennose
Harrison hadn’t seen the Daniels in years. He’d been passed from foster to foster, causing problems wherever he ended up. When his final placement fell through, he had nowhere else to go. He had no support to get on his own two feet, no education to get a job, and far too much alcohol to do much else.
His funds quickly dwindled, and nobody would help him. The little help he did get, he refused to accept it, kicking off until they left him alone. After a week of no electricity or water, he gave in, packed his bags, and headed for the Daniels.
By the time he got there, several buses and a few miles walk later, it was dark. His phone was long out of charge and he knew he should have called first, but he wasn’t that considerate. There was a chill to the air, but the alcohol kept him warm despite only being in a t-shirt. It took a few attempts to find the correct door, a few wrong answers and several angry people. He hammered on the door again, leaning against the frame.
Fao liked being home. Uni had been great when he lived away, but after Finn’s accident he needed his family, and Fao was glad to be there for him. Recovery had been slow, but he was always there to help his little brother out.
Everyone was scattered about the house when there was a knock at the door. Fred was cooking, Sheila was upstairs doing something, and Finn was apparently doing his homework (though Fao had his doubts). Fao was stretched out on the sofa reading at the time, the loud sound startling him. Were they expecting someone? Sheila hadn’t said anything.
He stood up and crossed the room to the front door, pulling it open. He didn’t recognise the boy stood in front of him, in scruffy clothes and looking slightly unsteady. He was probably a couple of years younger than Fao, but not much younger than that. He looked skinny and unkempt, and Fao frowned.
“Can I help you?”
“The fuck are you?”
“Uh, I live here?”
Harrison scowled at him. “Where’s Sheila?”
“Upstairs. You got a name, kid?”
“Fred, then.” He glanced past Fao. “Where’s he?”
“Look, who are you?”
“I don’t have to answer to you.” He swayed slightly. “Just get them, will you?”
“I don’t know who you are. Why should I get them?”
“Because I’ve asked you to.”
“I don’t even know who you are.” Fao said, folding his arms over his chest.
“So go get them.”
“I’m not just letting you walk into my house.” Fao’s voice was hard.
“Did I ask to walk in "your” house?“
“I live here, it’s just as much my house.”
"Like fuck is it. ”
“So you’re just gonna show up at the door and tell me what is and isn’t my house?”
“Fuck off with your high and mighty attitude, mate.”
“You’ve really got some balls, haven’t you? I just want to know what the fuck you actually want.”
Harrison shoved him. “I’ve told you.”
“Hey, hey. Watch it.” Fao growled, pushing him back.
“Stop being such a dick then.”
“What the fuck is your problem?”
“I’ve asked you to get Fred and you’re being an absolute dick.” He squared up to Fao. “So, yeah. You’remy problem.”
Fao pushed him back, hard. “Oh, fuck off. Stop being such a fucking cunt.”
Harrison stumbled back, tripping over the front step and landing sprawled in the driveway. “You’re the fucking cunt.”
“Yeah, whatever mate.”
He struggled to his feet. “You’re a fucking wanker.”
“Says you.”
He swung for the other boy, frustrated beyond belief. It wasn’tfair.
The other boy was slow and uncoordinated, and Fao countered his punch with his own, sharp and angry. He wasn’t taking any more shit from him.
Harrison staggered back. Fao’s punch had landed, making its mark on his cheek. Blood welled in his mouth and he swore before he spat it out. He swung again.
Harrison’s counter attack landed well, Fao reveling in his hit and too distracted to dodge. He staggered back into the hallway, reeling.
“Dickhead.” He spat.
Fao gripped the wall, his head spinning. “You’re fuckin’ insane.”
“Maybe you shouldn’t be such a wanker.”
“Maybe you shouldn’t just stand there and act like you own everything!” Fao snapped, his voice harsh.
“Coming from you, that’s rich.” Harrison shook his head. “I asked for one thing and you think you rule the place.”
“Almost as if it’s my house.”
“Yeah, right.”
Fao’s cheek, where Harrison had caught him, was throbbing, and he was sure a bruise was forming already.
“You’ve yet to give me a good reason why I should let you in.”
“I didn’t ask to come in, did I?” He spat. “I asked for Sheila or Fred.”
“What do you want them for anyway? How do you even know them?”
He wasn’t going to admit that. “I just do, alright? Please.”
“I’m not getting them without knowing why.”
“For fuck’s sake!” He snapped, trying to balance himself on the doorframe. “I’ve just fucking asked you to get them!”
Fao just reacted as the other boy moved to lean on the doorframe, and swung another punch at him. He had to look out for his family.
Harrison dropped like a sack of shit, landing in a crumpled heap. He hadn’t even seen Fao’s punch coming. Sheila, on the other hand, had.
“Faolan!”
Fao wasn’t a complete arsehole, when the other boy hit the deck he moved to crouch next to him, but Sheila’s shout made him flinch. Fuck.
“Go get Fred. You’ve done enough.” Her tone was hard as she placed her hand on his shoulder. “Go on.”
“I didn’t…” He said quietly. “I jus’…”
“Move it.” She clicked her fingers at him. “Now.”
His words died on his tongue and he stood up, bolting back into the house. Guilt curled in his stomach, and he went in search of Fred.
Sheila crouched by Harrison, gently rubbing his shoulder. Blood was pouring from his nose and his lip was split. She rolled her eyes. Boys.
Harrison jerked back from her hand, disorientated and swinging immediately. Nothing landed and despite his blurred vision he recognised Sheila, reaching for her with shaky hands.
Fred was cooking, and Fao was filled with dread as he stepped into the kitchen, bravado completely drained out of him. “F-Fred?”
“What’s up, kiddo?”
“Sh-Sheila wants you. D-door.”
He turned, still half-heartedly stirring. “What happened?”
He couldn’t do much more than lamely shrug his shoulders, struggling for words. “She wants you.”
Fred knew there was more going on, but also that he wasn’t going to get any more from Fao. “Stir that. I’ll back in a minute.”
Fao nodded. He could stir, he’d be out of the way then. He moved closer, aware of the blood on his knuckles. He was shaking, virtually trembling.
Fred wasn’t long, not entirely surprised to find Sheila crouched over a very confused Harrison. It had been a few years since they’d seen him, but he’d often turn up every few years anyway. The teenager had already thrown up over the front step, though Sheila had managed to start to control his bleeding nose - it was obviously broken.
The pair helped Harrison to his feet - he didn’t weigh much, more lanky than anything- and slowly took him through to the living room. They’d have to go to hospital, there was no doubt about that, but they needed to get him sorted enough to be fine in the car.
Fao kept quiet in the kitchen, leaning against one of the counters to keep himself upright. His legs felt weak, his chest a little tight. He’d fucked up, they were going to kick him out.
Fred called for Finn before he headed back through to the kitchen. Though Fao had attempted to stir, they needed to leave and it would be ruined by the time they got back. Fao looked like he’d seen a ghost, and he had a pretty nasty bruise blossoming around his eye too.
“Grab a hoodie, She’s taking us to hospital.”
Fao startled, looking up. “‘m fine. I’ll jus’ go up to my room, out of the way.” He said quietly.
“Not a chance.”
“‘m fine.”
“Yeah? That bruise looks fine. Hoodie, car, five minutes.”
He didn’t have a choice, did he? He toyed with just hiding in his room anyway, and then thought better of it. He didn’t want to get into any more trouble. So he abandoned the cooking, and rushed upstairs to grab a hoodie, feeling distinctly lightheaded.
They’d already managed to get Harrison into the car, a dish between his legs for when he inevitably threw up. Fao was directed to the front seat, Finn shoved in the back with his mum. He wasn’t entirely sure what was going on, but had quickly been distracted.
Fred turned to Fao, offering him an ice pack. “You don’t look too great. Are you going to puke as well?”
He shook his head, but took the ice. “No.”
“Are you gonna pass out on me?”
“Probably not.”
“You feel dizzy?” He checked as he pulled off the drive.
“Not really.” It wasn’t a completelie.
“So, yes.” Fred rolled his eyes. “Let me know if it gets worse.”
“Notdizzy. I’m fine.”
He let out a heavy sigh. “We’re not impressed with all of…this. We’ll deal with it later, but right now, we need to make sure you two are okay.”
“Sorry.” He looked down at his lap. “I can go back to my flat after we’ve come back.”
“We’re not having a repeat of last time.”
He made a noise in protest. “I won’t.”
“Don’t worry. We’ll get it sorted.”
“Sorry.”
“Not me you need to apologise to, is it?”
“Oh.”
“He definitely came out worse off than you.” Fred glanced at Fao. “You’ve got a surprisingly good punch on you.”
“Rugby.” He mumbled.
“Yeah. Better be careful on nights out.” He said. “Don’t want you getting in trouble.”
“‘m careful.”
“Apparently so.”
Fao was quiet, staring down at his lap, the bruises blooming over his knuckles. “Sorry.”
“Hey.” Fred reached out to rest a hand on Fao’s knee. “It’s going to be okay.”
Fao flinched, pulling away with a sharp intake of breath.
“Sorry, sorry.” Fred placed his hand back on the steering wheel.
“It’s fine.”
He hummed. “Sure. That’s why we’re driving to A&E at this time of night.”
“I don’t need A&E.”
“That one does.” He gestured to Harrison. “Kinda your fault.”
“I didn’t mean to…”
Fred raised his eyebrow. “Looks like you did.”
“I-” Fao cut himself off. “Nevermind.”
“At least we don’t need a guard dog.”
“I was only trying to…”
“Break his nose? Did a good job at that.”
“No.” He protested, his voice wavering.
“What, then?”
“Doesn’t matter, does it? Still fucking did it.”
“I’m not swearing at you, I don’t appreciate you swearing at me.” He warned.
“Sorry.” He mumbled, and decided not to say anything else.
Fred didn’t bother to reply. There was no talking to him when he was like that, and he didn’t really have the energy. Harrison was still throwing up in the back seat, Sheila having her work cut out trying to soothe him and keep Finn distracted.
Every time the other boy vomited, Fao winced. It wasn’t exactly pleasant, adding nausea to his guilt. He had half a mind to bolt when they got to the hospital, but he knew he wouldn’t get away with it.
Fred pulled in, dropping the car close to the entrance. “Fao, you go in with Sheila and Hars. I’m going to take Finn home. You can call me when you’re done.”
He nodded, pulling his hoodie closer, and got out of the car wordlessly. He waited for Sheila and Harrison, looking down at the floor.
Sheila said goodbye to her husband and son, walking the other two into the emergency reception. “I don’t know what went on between the two of you, but if you two cause any problems in the emergency department, so help me god.”
Fao shook his head. “Won’t.”
Harrison’s agreement was with his head in the sick bowl, looking up at Fao and then Sheila. “He started it.”
“Didn’t.”
“Did too.”
Fao huffed. “It’s always my fault.”
“Boys. That’s enough.”
Fao shrugged but fell silent. They headed inside and got checked in, Sheila sat between the two boys.
Harrison was seen to first, thanks to Fao knocking him out. She didn’t trust Fao not to run off, so made him sit outside the bay as Harrison was seen to. They had a bit more to check with Harrison too, the younger boy having just turned up on their doorstep.
Fao hated being stuck in the ED. Especially when he wasn’t really all that injured, and he didn’t really have Sheila for comfort. She was preoccupied keeping Harrison on the straight and narrow. It did make Fao wonder what the point of the both of them coming in was. Of course, he was stuck waiting, the A&E corridors cold and unwelcoming.
With Harrison reasonably settled in a bed in majors, Sheila headed to the corridor to find Fao. She sat heavily beside him, turning to look at the bruises on his face.
He looked over at her. “He okay?”
“Settled. How are you?”
“Fine.”
“Yeah, you look fine.”
He shrugged. “I’ve had worse. Don’t really need to be here.”
“I still want you checked over.”
“I’m fine.”
“Better than he is.”
“My fault.”
“I don’t know what happened between the two of you. That’s for you to sort out when you’re both better.”
“I fucked up.”
“I doubt it was all your fault.”
“Might as well be.”
“I don’t think so.”
“Is in Fred’s opinion.”
“Did he say that?” She asked, nudging him.
“Pretty much. Said it was my fault we had to come in.”
“Well, you did knock Harrison out.”
“So it’s all my fault.”
“Did you need to knock him out?”
“Obviously not. I didn’t mean to knock him out.”
“What were you meaning to do then?’
“I don’t know, okay?!” He snapped. “He showed up, I didn’t know who the fuck he was, he got aggy, I didn’t want someone coming in the . house when I had no idea who they are and they were acting out. He looked like he was going to force his way inside, so I swung. He’d already swung at me, so… I reacted. I didn’t want anyone getting hurt.”
Sheila was calm. "Why didn’t you get one of us?”
“I don’t know. Because he was asking for you like he owned the place. And he was drunk, it put me on edge.”
“All the more reason to get one of us. Or just walk away, shut the door and all that.”
“I thought I could handle things. Y’know, look out for everyone.”
“That’s what we’re there for.”
“It’s different. I don’t know.”
“We’re the adults. The adult adults. We’re here to look after you.”
“I jus’ wanted to look after things.”
“I appreciate that, but it hasn’t worked out too well this time.”
“I know.”
“You can’t just get away with it.”
“You think I don’t know that?”
“There has to be some punishment.”
He shrugged. “I don’t expect otherwise.”
“I know, but I don’t want it to be like it used to. The problem is that we have to have some repercussions for our actions, you know?”
“I understand that. I was never under any illusion that there wouldn’t be? I fucked up.”
“I just don’t want you to think we’re out to get you.” She said softly, leaning against him. “You were brave standing up for us, but it was just directed at the wrong person. With some stubbornness in there too, I bet.”
He shrugged. “I guess.”
“I don’t know what went on, but he’s not a bad guy, you know?” She continued. “He’s been through a lot, not unlike you.”
“He started the fight.”
“Did he?”
“He shoved me.”
“Doesn’t surprise me.”
“So forgive me for being somewhat on the defensive.”
“I don’t blame you for that.”
“But you’re still mad at me. Why can’t I just go back to my flat?”
“Because I don’t want you to go back and just cut us off.” She said, frustrated. “You go back to your flat and you get off scot free from us and you beat yourself up.”
“You keep talking about consequences. Whatever they are, I can take them, but I’d rather you stop pussyfooting around them and just tell me straight. I’m assuming you’re not going to beat the ever loving shit out of me, so I kind of need to know where I stand.”
“Of course we’re not going to hit you.“ She took a steadying breath. "Right now, I need to focus on Hars and getting him out of hospital. We can talk about the consequences when you’re back home.”
No. 1 - ALL TRUSSED UP AND STILL NOWHERE TO GO
“You have to let go” | barbed wire | bound
Harrison and Fao had finally started to get along, much to the pack’s relief. It gave Sheila and Fred a (well deserved) break, and Finn a distraction.
They’d spend afternoons after school in the Sanctuary, dicking around until Sheila called them in for tea or bed.
Fao loved being able to hare around the sanctuary after college. Once he’d burned off his excess energy, he always focused better. He found his homework easier, and he slept better too. Finn was quickly becoming like a little brother to him, and Harrison was a friend. He didn’t get on with many people at college, it was nice to have someone.
Him and Harrison often got caught up playfighting, Finn left to his own devices somewhat. The older boys were bigger and stronger, he couldn’t always play with them. They didn’t even notice him slip away deeper into the sanctuary, whilst Fao and Harrison scrapped.
It really wasn’t fair anymore. Harrison always used to play with Finn and now he had Fao, often leaving Finn alone. With nothing to do and nobody to play with, Finn set off to explore.
They’d been doing some work round the back of the sanctuary, repairing where someone had tried to break in and ruin it all. It wasn’t all bad news, though, as they’d ended up receiving a grant from the local council, and the extra publicity had led to an increase in funding too.
He knew he’d be told off for playing around there, but assumed that exploring would be fine. He was only sniffing around anyway.
Despite his bravado, he was still skittery, especially when he was by himself. He was spooked by a bird flying at him, seemingly from nowhere, and he jumped back, tripping over his paws.
He didn’t feel the pain at first, but as he tried to stand, it burned through his leg and down his side. It surprised him and he yelped, overwhelmed with the pain for a moment. Finn tried again, trying to stand. It was agony.
He turned to nose at his side, met with barbed wire and blood. His leg was the same, and every movement tightened the wire around his leg. He yelped again, his cries growing more desperate as he struggled.
Fao and Hars must have been too far away, or maybe they’d even left. He continued to struggle, desperately trying to get free. His muzzle was covered in blood, mainly from his leg and side, but also from his attempts at pulling the wire off. He howled again, as loud as he could. It was filled with pain and fear, terrified he’d be left alone to die.
Fao and Hars hadn’t heard him at first, his yelps far too quiet over their own playful growls and the soft breeze that carried through the woods. They carried on scrapping, leaping about chasing eachother, until Finn’s howl pierced the air.
Fao stopped dead, digging his claws into the dirt. He called back to Finn, trying to let him know they were coming, before he rushed off in the direction of the howl, nose to the ground to find where he’d been.
Finn was too busy howling to hear Fao, panic overtaking him. He continued to struggle, screaming in pain as he got more and more tangled.
Finn’s pained screams terrified Fao. What the hell had he gone and done to himself? As he got closer, Finn’s scent was overwhelmed by the scent of blood. Lots of blood. Not long after that he saw him, caught in a pile of scrap, what looked to be barbed wire. He rushed over, pressing his nose to Finn’s head.
At the sight of Fao, his screams got more desperate, trying to reach him. He leaned into the older wolf, paws scrabbling on the floor to get closer.
Fao rushed over, trying to stop Finn from struggling too much. The more he wriggled, the more Fao could see the wire pulling at him, ripping through fur and flesh and causing the bleeding to get worse. He pressed up close to him, trying to soothe him. It was going to be okay, they’d make sure he was.
Finn couldn’t move with the weight of Fao on top of him. He was too stressed for Fao to help, though his cries slowly dwindled into whimpers, his whole body shaking.
Fao whined softly, trying to reassure him. He twisted to look for Harrison. They needed help, and now. This wasn’t good.
Harrison wasn’t as fast on his paws as Fao, but had been stood there long enough to see what had happened. He jutted his nose towards the camera, a warning to Fao. They couldn’t shift, even if he went to get help. They couldn’t blow their cover.
He’d run back and get help, Finn needed Fao more than him, and the other wolf would probably be better at calming him down.
He bolted off, paws pounding against the ground. He just had to hope someone would be free.
Of course they were next to a camera. If Fao wanted to shift, he’d have to leave Finn. And he couldn’t leave Finn without someone else there with him. He whined again, trying to stop Finn from moving so much.
Finn kept struggling, pressing his nose to Fao and then turning to bite at his leg. Why wasn’t Fao helping?
Fao huffed, and gently licked Finn. He sent him an image of the camera, and then tried to send him one to soothe him too. The more he moved, the more it was going to hurt.
It hadn’t occurred to Finn about shifting, but the more he thought about it, the better it seemed. The camera didn’t matter, they could sort that out after, he was sure. He whimpered, pawing at Fao with his free paw and trying to beg him for help.
Fao shook his head, nosing gently at him. He just had to stay still, it would be okay. They’d get him out. Harrison would come back and Fao could move away to shift and they’d get him out of the mess.
Harrison had grabbed as many people as he could, out of breath and only barely covering himself with a towel. The pack sprung into action, Steve and Sheila heading to Finn while the rest shut the cameras down and went ahead to prepare the clinic. It didn’t sound good.
Waiting for the pack was like torture. Every minute that dragged by felt like an hour, watching Finn bleed onto the dirt. He was clearly terrified - Fao could feel how scared he was. He was in a lot of pain, too. He wished he could do something to help, but it was just a matter of waiting.
Steve ran ahead, his medical kit slung over his back. He arrived at the boys’ side breathing heavily as he knelt down. Finn was covered in blood, but nothing was pouring out. He’d need to get him back to the clinic before doing anything, but he could already see Finn would need stitches.
“Hey, you’re okay. You’re okay, Finn. You’re doing so good.” He started murmuring, quickly drawing up a sedative - it would be easier to assess without the risk of him shifting or pulling away.
Fao whined, gently nudging Steve’s side. Could he shift and help without getting caught?
Steve shook his head slightly, pushing Fao’s muzzle away for show. “Not yet.” He whispered. “They’re still on.”
He sighed, and went back to fussing over Finn. If he couldn’t shift, he could at least keep Finn as calm as possible. It was hard to tell, but it looked like Steve was about to sedate. That would help, but it would probably scare Finn more for a bit.
“Thank you.” He returned to fussing over Finn, gently and quickly getting a cannula in. “You’re okay, Finn. Just relax, okay?”
Fao whined, desperate to do more. But he couldn’t, not unless he shifted. He nosed at Finn again, all he could do.
Finn snarled at them, trying to pull his paw away. Steve was quick to respond, a low growl in warning as he gave the meds. They wouldn’t take long to work, but Finn needed to stay calm.
Fao stretched out to lay next to Finn trying to send over a calming thought, forcing himself to relax to relax the younger boy. He sent images of the two of them asleep together, the way they slept during the moons.
Despite the panic and pain, Finn slowly began to relax. He nudged Fao, trying to fight the sedation. Steve stroked Finn’s shoulder, quietly shushing the young wolf. It would be okay.
The sedation finally took hold, leaving Finn more out of it than not. He didn’t fight as Steve began cutting him free, choosing instead to press closer to Fao. His wounds were deep, and they’d have to fully sedate him to sort them, but they needed to move him. He’d be okay.
Fao stayed with him, careful to avoid the wire as Steve cut Finn free. Once they got him free he could shift and help Steve at the clinic, but for now he was still useless. It felt like an eternity to wait.
Sheila finally arrived, nodding to Fao. “Your bag is just by the tree. Go shift.”
As soon as Sheila spoke, Fao darted away to grab his back and shift. He hurriedly pulled on his jeans, rushing back over as he pulled a t-shirt on. His hands were covered in blood, but he had to get back to Finn. He had to help.
“I’m here.” He breathed.
He was quick to help Steve with Finn, trying to stop the bleeding the best he could. There was no time to think, to wait about for instructions. They only had a limited time until the sedation wore off, they needed to get him moved and into the clinic as quick as possible.
Steve got done as much as he could before taking a step back. He couldn’t do any more without the clinic. He kept murmuring to Finn in hushed tones as he picked the wolf up, hopping on the back of the ?truck?. He invited Fao up with him, the other boy very obviously calming Finn down.
It wasn’t a far drive back to the clinic, but it felt like an eternity for Sheila. She spent the drive glancing over her shoulder, checking on Steve and Finn. Her youngest had started to fight through the sedation, whimpering and whining as he struggled. Without the clinic though, Steve couldn’t give any more. He quietly shushed Finn, running his fingers through the small bit of fur that wasn’t covered in blood.
Fao sat with Finn and Steve, doing his best to soothe the younger wolf, keeping a careful eye on his breathing. It wasn’t long to the clinic, and he helped to get him out of the car and straight through into their theatre. Finn would need proper intervention to fix this. It wasn’t ideal, but it was the best thing for everyone.
Finn batted a paw at Fao as everyone rushed around him. He made a quiet whine in protest, but the anaesthesia was strong in his system. He couldn’t have done it without Fao, had to tell him that he loved him. He huffed at him, his head too heavy to lift.
Fao leaned over to kiss his nose. “You’re okay. We’ve got you. Just go to sleep, it’s alright.”
For once, he did as he was told, slipping under. With Fao close, he didn’t panic either, letting the anaesthesia take over.
He stroked over his ears. “I love you. We’ve got you.”
Whumptober Masterlist
We did it! Another year, another whumptober complete! It’s totally flown by, andwe managed to do it without either of us ending up in the hospital (a definite win, by our standards). See under the cut for the full list of prompts and links to each post :)
No. 1 - All Trussed Up And Still Nowhere To Go(Wolves)
No. 2 - Talking Is Overrated(Brothers)
No. 3 - Sticks And Stones May Break My Bones But…(Wolves)
No. 4 - Trust Fall(Medieval)
No. 5 - I’ve Got Red In My Ledger (Brothers)
No. 6 - Touch and Go (Brothers)
No. 7 - My Spidey Sense Is Tingling(Brothers)
No. 8 - Coughing Up A Lung (Fao x Hars?)
No. 9 - Rumours Of My Death Have Been Greatly Exaggerated(Crime)
No. 10 - Oops, I Did It Again (Fao x Hars)
No. 11 - Just Keep Swimming(Brothers)
No. 12 - Anxiety (Alt. 15) (Brothers)
No. 13 - That’s Gonna Leave A Mark(Crime)
No. 14 - Under Pressure (Hars)
No. 15 - Feed A Cold, Starve A Fever(Brothers)
No. 16 - On A Need to Know Basis (Fao x Hars)
No. 17 - Field Care 101 (Hars)
No. 18 - The Doctor Is In(Brothers)
No. 19 - Just A Scratch (Brothers)
No. 20 - Lost & Found(Brothers)
No. 21 - That’s Where The Blood’s Supposed To Be (Brothers)
No. 22 - Regret (Alt 12)(Brothers)
No. 23 - Near Death Experience (Alt 11)(Wolves)
No. 24 - One Down, One To Go(Brothers)
No. 25 - Hide & Seek(Fao)
No. 26 - Comfort (Alt 8) (Fao x Hars)
No. 27 - I’m Fine I Prom…(Brothers)
No. 28 - It’s Not Just In Your Head(Brothers)
No. 29 - All Work And No Play (Brothers)
No. 30 - Digging Your Grave(Brothers)
No. 31 - Hurt & Comfort(Brothers)
