When our lips touched. part 18.

When our lips touched.

Part 18. chapter 4.

As the night progressed the hours turned to early morning. Margret falls asleep in Price's arm joining her boys in slumber.

"Think it's time we head to bed, John,"

"Agreed, Pat,"

Price uncoils himself from the sleeping woman getting up from the couch before gently curling his arms around her lifting her into his arms and carrying her out of the room and up the stairs. He continues holding her tight in his arms carrying her bridal style to her bedroom as Patrick and Gaz follow soon after heading to their designated rooms.

He enters her room walks over to the bed gently lays her down before removing her fuzzy white slippers, positioning them neatly next to each other beside the bed before proceeding to toss the blanket over her person and leaning down and press a kiss to her forehead.

She stirs and sprouts a weak smile as her eyes gradually flutter open as he walks back to the door.

"John..., stay,"

"Of course, Dear,"

He returns to her sits down on the bed and kicks off his slippers discarding them a few feet from the bed as he lays down next to her rolling over and curling his arm around her. He sighs lightly into her neck as he presses a kiss to her scalp before they drift into slumber.

The night sky transitions today as the sun tediously rises over Manchester setting the city alight as the morning birds reawaken and sing their morning songs as they remain silent not a soul stirs as they remain in slumber.

Later as the hours pass and the clock turns to 08:23 John rolls away from Simon as his arm falls from the bed and thumps against the cold floor waking him. His eyes flutter open as he remains in a daze for a few minutes as he remembers his surroundings. he glances over his shoulder at the sleeping man next to him and rerolls facing him as he curls back into his arm resting his head against his chest circling his finger in the short blond hair covering his chest along with the many scattered scars webbing his torso.

He moves slightly as his head rolls to John remains in a deep sleep as he breathes slightly heavier than moments before. He continues glancing at the sleeping man's face, as an adoring smile sprouts over his face staring at him contently.

Not too soon Simon wakes, his eyes open gradually as he stares at the ceiling, his visions refocus and looks down at the man nestled in his arm as their gazes meet and stares deep into his blue eyes as a weak smile sprouts over his lips.

"Morning, Puppy,"

"Si..., what you told your mother last night, was it true?"

"About me rubbing your back, yes,"

"Why did you never tell me about that?"

"How could I have, we were colleagues back then, would have been inappropriate, besides, would you have appreciated it if another man touched you in your sleep when you were interested in women, Johnny?"

"I guess not...,"

"You see,"

"Should have said something back then, could have hooked up back then,"

"Please, you only had pussy on your mind...,"

"Could have had cock too,"

Simon grins wickedly as he closes his eyes and leans his head back into his pillow caressing his palm over John's back and running his fingers along his spine as he continues down to his arse toying with the fleshy globes.

"Still obsessed with my arse, Si?"

"You know I am,"

He smiles weakly as he remains lying back with his eyes closed as John continues circling his finger on his chest swirling his trimmed blond chest hair in circles. they remain in each other's arms lying contently as the house remains in silence.

"What we gonna do today, Si,"

"Donno, you feeling better today?"

"Aye, I do, can't be lying around all day, going a' dol air seachran,"

"English, Johnny...,"

"Going mad, Si,"

"Reason you slept all day yesterday?"

"No..., I was just exhausted..., was nice being able to sleep, especially next to you, Si,"

"You like it then?"

"Aye, best part of my day,"

Simon smiles broadly as his eyes gradually open before glancing down at the man resting on his chest toying with his chest hair, he gently draws the other man up closer to his face and presses his lips against his kissing him romanticly as he smiles into his mouth before peppering kisses along his top lip and nose tip. John smiles broadly as his eyes fall shut resting his head in the crook of the other man's neck.

"Thank you, Puppy,"

"For what, Si?"

He remains silent for a moment as his eyes remain shut as the man on his chest stirs and repositions facing him wanting him contently awaiting his response.

"For being here with me...,"

"Si, you don't have to thank me for that, I'm the one who should be thanking you for everything you have done for me, I can't thank you enough for..., loving me and for giving me a new family who cares for me as if I were there own, compared to that I've done nothing for you,"

"You're wrong...,"

"How so?"

His eyes flutter open as he stares him deep into his blue eye before sitting up slightly dragging the man on his chest with him as they sit up.

"Johnny..., that morning in that alley..., I showed you my face and you accepted me without question, you..., said you l-loved me, no one has ever accepted me without my masks little known loved me for who I really am and you did, and for that, I will forever be grateful for you,"

"Si..., you know I never cared about seeing your face, even if you wear your mask now and never revealed yourself nothing would have changed,"

Simon smiles weakly at him as John leans into him curling his arms around his waist and hugs him tight as he buries himself deep into his stomach, he caresses his palm over his back rubbing him warmly.

"I love you, Puppy,"

'Aye, I love you more, Si,"

A figure materialises in the doorway of the room knocking whisperingly.

"Save to come in, Lt?"

"Yes, Gaz, come in,"

"Morning, gaz, how did you sleep, mate?"

"No complaints, Soap,"

"When did you all go to bed, Then?"

"Around three I guess,"

"Late then,"

"Lt..., don't mean to gossip but I think Price slept in your mother's room last night,"

"None of our buisness, Gaz,"

"They getting serious then, Si,"

"Happy for then, Puppy, Just have to keep an eye on my uncle,"

"Aye..., he a bit suspicious of Price, isn't he?"

"Yes, a bit,"

"Why doesn't he like, Price, then, Lt?"

"He said he reminds him of my father,"

John squints his eyes at Gaz gesturing for him to drop the subject.

"I actually do have a personal question for both of you, if you don't mind me asking?"

"What is it, Gaz?"

"You see, Lt..., Well how do I put this, How do your roles work in the bedroom, who's the girl..., so to speak and who's the  guy?" 

"Are you serious, Mate?"

"I am, Soap...,"

"Si, you mind answering this one...?"

Simon looks down at the man nestled into his side and nods slightly as a weak smile sprouts over his lips brushing his fingers along his back.

"Well..., if you insist on knowing every detail going on in our sex life, I suppose I'm the lead so to speak, Johnny..., is the follower if you catch my drift?"

"I see..., interesting, so would you ever swap roles with Soap then, Lt?"

"Only if he requests,"

"Soap..., Personal question, since we are speaking like adults here,"

"Aye...,"

"Do you enjoy..., you know... taking it?"

John's face turns slightly red as Simon giggles at himself whisperingly as he contemplates if he should answer the intrigued man's question.

"Speak the truth, Puppy, no need to be embarrassed about it,"

He looks up at him as he smiles weakly at him receiving a nod with a smile in return.

"If you breathe a word of this out of this room I'll cut your throat in your sleep,"

"Won't I swear, Soap, besides, I'm sure, Lt, will skin me alive if I do,"

"Bloody right,"

Simon grins wickedly as he narrows his eyes at Gaz.

"Go close the door then, I'll tell you afterwards,"

Gaz gets up from the bed's corner returns to the door and closes it making sure it's secure before returning to the two intertwined men on the bed.

"Okay. it's closed, spill the beans then,"

He remains silent for a minute glancing up at Simon one last time before averting his gaze back to the nosey man as he sighs heavily.

"I do, it's the best feeling I've experienced in my life..., way better than being with a lass,"

"Bigger the better, then?"

"Watch it, Sargeant,"

"Sorry, Lt, no need to be offended,"

"What you want to see it, Sarge?"

"Daz remains silent for a moment not knowing if Simon is serious.

"I'm Joking, Gaz,"

Gaz laughs whisperingly as he averts his gaze from them as he mutters under his breath.

"Can I see it though...,"

Simon narrows his eyes at him clearly hearing what he requested. he looks down at John and whispers in his ear cupping his palm in front of his mouth.

"Johnny he wants to see my cock..."

He looks up at Simon and smiles wickedly giving him a slight nod. Simon slips his hand past his waistband taking hold of the shaft and withdrawing his cock from his briefs exposing himself to his audience.

"Gaz...,"

"What the fuck, Lt..., holy shit, you're huge,"

"Not hard yet, Sarge,"

"You're not hard yet..., fuck and you can take that thing, Soap, foking hell, I take my hat off to you,"

John leans up to him cupping his hand before his lips mouthing the word "Let him touch it" to Simon, Simon's eyes widen instantaneously before softening sprouting a mischievous grin.

"Want to touch it, Sarge?"

"What..., no-o, actually yeah just a sec,"

"Go for it,"

Simon's cock hardens a moment before Gaz curls his fingers around his thickening shaft taking hold firmly.

"Bloody hell, Lt,"

"okay that's enough, It belongs to, Johnny,"

"Not gonna lie..., Kind of jealous, Soap, not that I'm into dudes but wouldn't mind giving such a specimen a test run,"

"Not happening, Sarge,"

"God no, not with you, Lt, fuck can't even imagine it,"

"Good..., I'm Johnny's, won't fuck anyone else,"

John smiles warmly at the comment feeling somewhat regretful for having Simon expose himself to Gaz like that. 

"So what else do you do?"

"Think that's enough for today, Gaz,"

"Apologies, Soap,"

"Sarge, why don't you go make us some tea,"

Sure thing, Lt,"

 Gaz gets up from the bed once more and returns to the door mirroring his previous steps, he exits the room and makes his way to the kitchen.

"Si..., uh, Sorry for pushing you,"

"Pushing me?"

"You know..., exposing yourself to him,"

"Oh, that, that's nothing, Puppy, I meant what I said, I belong to you and only you, don't care who sees my cock I'm loyal to you, Johnny,"

John smiles broadly reburing himself into his side and hugging him tight.

"You're one of a kind, Si,"

Simon smiles broadly drawing the man from his waist to his shoulder and pressing his lips onto his kissing him tenderly as he runs his palm along his back holding him tight in his grasp.

"Morning, Lads,"

"Price..., Good morning,"

"Morning, John, hear you slept in my mother's room last night?"

"I did, I assure you nothing happened, Simon...,"

"Don't need to worry about that, John, you're adults, can do what you want..., just mind my uncle,"

"Thank you.., yes I'm aware he's not too keen on me...,"

"Just ignore him, Captain, he means well,"

"I'm aware, Johnny, should have a chat with him and sort it out, Mar, doesn't like the tension between us,"

"Mar?"

"I gave her a nickname, Simon,"

"Cap, if I may..., last night you said you love my mother and she in return to you..., How serious are you two?"

Price glances over at Simon as he smiles weakly.

"Remember the first time you opened up to me about your feelings for Johnny,  how did you know the day you met that he was your soul mate?"

"Yes, of course,"

"The night I came over for dinner I felt the same, and Margret confessed the same to me,"

Simon remains silent face unreadable as John looks up at him smiling somewhat broadly exposing his pearly whites.

"I'm happy for you, John..., for both of you, just promise me you'll take care of my mother,"

"Of course, Lad, I give you my word,"

"You going to marry her, Captain?"

"Don't know, Johnny, If she lets me I will, How do you feel about that, Simon?"

"I'll be honoured, John, already gave you my blessing you don't need my permission,"

"Awesome, will be grand having you as a Father-in-law, Captain,"

Price smiles broadly curling his fingers over his moustache averting his gaze from the two men lying on the bed before him.

"Morning..., Cap, Want some tea?"

"Morning, gaz, yes would be nice, thank you, lad,"

"Here take mine, I'll go make myself another,"

He proceeds to hand Simon and John their cups before returning to the kitchen. Price sits down on the corner of the bed,

"So what's your plans for today, Lads?"

"Donno, John,"

"You are aware you have to help, Johnny, with his leg exercises?"

"No, I didn't,"

"What exercise, cap?"

"Lucy wrote it down on her notes, Will have to ask, Mar, about that,"

"Good could use some exercise, don't remember the last time I just laid around and did nothing like this,"

"Yes, you're a bloody lazy git,"

Gaz roars as he enters back into the room.

Simon narrows his eyes at him raising an eyebrow disapprovingly, Price grins sprouting a somewhat happy smile and averting his gaze to him observing his movements as he sits down next to him on the bed.

"So what you boys been up to this morning?"

"You don't want to know, Cap, trust me on that one,"

"That bad?"

"Something like that...,"

"Gaz, just shut up already,"

John roars at him.

"Simon, do I want to know?"

"Gaz held my cock in his hand,"

Price sighs heavily shaking his head disapprovingly as Gaz's cheeks redden and John giggles secretly as he hides under the blanket.

"For heaven's sake..., what on god's green earth for?"

"You'll have to ask him, he wanted to see it...,"

Bloody hell, Gaz, you're nearly thirty, need to grow up son,"

Gaz laughed somewhat mortified at the moment but managed to play it off smoothly. 

"I swear the three of you drive me up the walls more than needed,"

"That's what having kids is like Cap,"

"I'm aware, Johhny,"

He remains quiet for a moment drifting into his thoughts as the last ten years of their lives together play through his head.

"God..., I'm going to miss you two,"

"We're not going away forever, Captain...,"

"I know, Johnny, It's just having you lot at my side for the majority of the decade, just got attached to you...,"

Price wipes his eyes with his dorsal before they overwhelm him with tears.

"You know you lot are like my kids, I never had any and you are the closest to any I'll ever have and I'm incredibly proud of all of you..., I've watched you Simon grow into an incredible human being, and Johnny you're always there to put a smile on our faces and you're bravery never disappoints..., Kyle you're a nutter but you're still the same nineteen-year-old that I met ten years ago but you judgements are always spot on, I want the three of you to know you have been my finest men I've ever had the opportunity to work with and are incredibly proud of each of you and honoured to call you my sons,"

Gaz and John's eyes are overwhelmed with tears as they cry like toddlers who lost their favourite toys. Simon nods his head at Price as his chin trembles as the words spoken overwhelm him, he recoils himself from John and gets up off the bed making his way to Price and curls his arms around his shoulders hugging him tight as tears cascade over his cheeks. Price returns the hug burying his face in Simon's neck as Gaz curls his arm around them both and not too soon John follows. The four of them share a delicate moment together as new emotions overwhelm them as the truth of Price's most inner thoughts brings them all to tears.

"Oh my goodness, are you boys alright?"

Margret enters the room fully dressed for the day as she is met with the intimate scene.

"Yes, Mar, Just had a chat with my boys,"

"I see..., I'll be in the kitchen, if you need me I'll be there,"

She exits the room closing the door behind her leaving them in peace. They remain locked together for a few more minutes as each retracts from the embrace until only Price and Simon remain, He squeezes Price tighter in his arms and whispers in his ear.

"Thank you, John, for everything you have ever done for us..., you're a true role model, Dad,"

The words flow into Price's ear as he processes the words just spoken by Simon he bursts out into tears and hugs him tighter almost burying his nails into his skin as he remains in the larger man's arms.

"God you lot are going to be the end of me, I swear..., Thank you, Simon, I appreciate hearing that from you,"

"Of course, I mean it..., Dad,"

"Aye..., Dad,"

"Yeah..., Dad,"

"Oh god, you lot are too much for my heart to handle, but am appreciative for calling me that lads,"

Simon pulls away from Price as his palm remains on his shoulder holding firmly as he glances deep into his eyes while sprouting a weak smile and nodding his head at him. Price wipes her eyes dry as he cracks a side smile at his audience, overwhelmed at the moment as the emotions fill the room, Gaz remains somewhat teary hiding his watery eyes from sights as John smiles weakly at him while observing the two larger men at the foot of the bed.

He drifts into thought as his mind wonders, the idea of Simon and himself leaving the 141, for good finally sets in and the realization of their life situation comes into focus, he Draws the blanket bringing it to a still to the tip of his chin as his right hand's fingers curl over the lower part of his face blocking the view of his trembling lips from his audience. his eyes overwhelm him as he falters to keep his emotions at bay while his free hand clenches into a fist gripping the blanket tightly in his grasp.

Simon Glances over in his direction and by chance notices his troublesome expression, he takes action and averts his gaze to Price clearing his throat aggressively.

"John, Gaz, please leave the room,"

His eyes narrow at Gaz averting his gaze to the door and nodding his head before returning his dark gaze back to the shorter man as he nods to Price. No words were spoken at the moment but both knew it was time to exit the room as Simon remained in utter silence eyes locked on the man beneath the blankets.

Price returns to his feet gesturing with his eyes to Gaz to follow him out of the room, he follows and mirrors his action following Price to the door not daring to look back at the remaining men. Price turns the doorknob and swings it open holding it open letting the other man pass through before following shortly after, He glances over his shoulder observing John for a moment before exiting the room entirely closing the door securely behind him making his way to the kitchen following the other man's movements mirroringly.

Simon returns to his feet walks back to his side of the bed and sits down on the mattress as the foam indents beneath him, he turns his posture facing John as he takes the fisted hand into his own.

"Johnny..., you alright, Love?"

"I don't know, Si,"

"Talk to me,"

He averts his gaze up to the towering man beside him as a heavy trembling breath passes over his lips.

"I just realised..., that we are officially done,"

"Done, what do you mean, Puppy?"

"S-simon..., We just quit and have no realistic future planned, what if we made a mistake..., what if we...,"

He returns to silence as heavy tears cascade down his cheeks overwhelming him entirely. Simon shifts and kneels on his knees as he pulls the weeping man forward into his person comforting him to the best of his ability.

"Johnny..., I don't know what to say, what triggered this?"

"I-I..., don't know, Si,"

"I can't promise you a wealthy future, Johnny, however, I'll do everything I can to give us a comfortable life,"

"No..., it's not that, Si, it just hit me that we are done, we are done with Price and Gaz..., Laswell, Shepard..., everyone, seven years of my life, ten years of yours and were done with everything, what are we gonna do now, we have no plans..., what are we going to?"

Simon's expression drops as he takes in the concerns from the man buried in his torso as he finally understands what's occurring at the moment and that the words from Price triggered his overwhelmed emotions.

"I don't know, Johnny, you know Price and Gaz will never be out of our lives, they are family, especially Price, you don't have to worry about that..., the 141 I honestly don't know what to say to you, thought you wanted to leave?"

"I did...,"

"So what's going on in your head then?"

"I don't know..., Simon,"

"Everything rushed to your head again?"

"Guess so..., I don't know why I act like this,"

Simon retracts himself from John as he sits back down and helps him back to his original position fluffing the pillow behind him. he leans back against the headboard of the couch, and takes his hand into his own leaning slightly downwards as he faces him.

"It's normal, Johnny, the past few days a lot has changed..., guess your mind just finally caught up,"

"Perhaps,"

"You don't need to worry yourself, love, we have enough savings to live comfortably for a few years, we'll get jobs like normal people and live like them and if push comes to shove Price will help us...,"

John remains silent as he nestles himself into Simon's side curling his arm around his waist as his eyes fall shut.

Earlier in the kitchen. Gaz walks into the room soon followed by Price and is met with a toothy smile as Margret stands leaning against the counter holding a freshly brewed cup of tea.

"What happened earlier?"

"I'll tell you later, Mar,"

"Tea boys?"

"Yes please, Ma'am,"

"Thank you, would be nice,"

She smiles broadly retrieving two new cups before refilling the kettle. Price walks to her as she stands before the sink curls his arms around her waist and presses a kiss to her cheek. She giggles whisperingly as she receives the peck on her cheek leaning her head back into Price. Gaz smiles broadly exposing a toothy smile watching the scene play out before him. he takes a seat on one of the stools swinging around somewhat childish before coming to a still resting his forearms on the countertop. He clears his throat raising an eyebrow at Price with an overly eager toothy smile.

"Where's my boys, Darling?"

"In the sitting room, Ma'am, Lt, insisted we leave,"

"Hope they are alright,"

"I'm sure they are, Mar,"

they continue conversing talking the early morning hours away as Patrick makes his appearance in the kitchen taking a seat next to Gaz and exchanging pleasantries with his audience.

"Patrick..., would you mind if we have a chat?"

"Of course, Mr Price,"

"Follow me outside?"

"Sure...,"

Patrick gets up from his seat and follows the slightly taller man to the back garden making their way to the old oak tree.

"So what do you want to chat about, Mr Price?"

"Please, call me John,"

"Alright, John it is,"

"Patrick..., I want to discuss our relationship, I'm fully aware you're not too keen on me and it's fine you don't have to, however, I would like to repair this thing between us not for our sake but for Mar and Simon...,"

"John, I already apologized last night, thought we swept it under the rug,"

"With due respect, I know when I'm being lied to, Patrick, can I ask you what you have against me...?"

He sighs heavily as he Diggs his loafer into the dirt beneath him.

"John..., I'm going to be completely honest with you..., I have nothing personal against you, however, you remind me of Tom,"

"Who's Tom?"

"Simon's Father, he was a decent man before Margret fell pregnant with him, he was decent and had good morals and cared for her and their firstborn, very much the same as your character, I just don't want a repeat...,"

"I see..., I didn't know that, I can understand your feelings, Patrick, however, I can assure you I won't lift a finger to her, and that I can bet my life on to you,"

"It's not necessary..., I could have been less of a dickhead to you I apologize for my behaviour, John, However I would very much like it if we can start over and become mates especially if you are planning on marrying my sister...,"

"How do you know about that?"

"I know everything that happens in this house, I hear everything, I know that conversation you had with my boys about the feelings you have for my sister and I also know about the conversation about that lad in the kitchen having an interest in Simon's knob..., and the speech you had for the three of them..., touching I must admit, you're a honourable man, John,"

"How do you know about all of this, I must say I'm impressed could have used you on the team,"

"Just doing my duty here, someone has to look out for shenanigans taking place," 

Price sprouts a broad smile as he nods in agreement as he pats Patrick on his shoulder.

"I know what you mean, them muppets can be a handful at times,"

"Made us grey,"

"Can't deny that...,"

They remain side by side for a few more minutes remaining in silence and contentment as they glare up at the branches of the old oak. 

"Should go back indoors, John,"

"Yes..., it's still freezing out here,"

He exhales heavily as a warm puff of fog flows over his lips as he glances over at Patrick and curls his arms around his shoulders rubbing his arms warmly. Patrick smirks at him as he pats him on his shoulder nudging him back slightly before leading him back to the kitchen.

Gaz laughs hysterically while Margret giggles whisperingly covering her lips with her fingertips.

"Oi..., what's so funny?"

"Nothing, Mr Pat, Just having a chat with your, Sister,"

"Anything I should know about, Mar?"

She glances over to Gaz as her chin trembles before bursting out in laughter.

"Bloody hell, Sis, what is so funny?"

"Nothing..., Just a joke between friends, that's all, Innit, Gaz?"

"Yes, Ma'am, only a joke,"

Price and Patrick narrow their eyes in sync as they both raise an eyebrow disapprovingly at their audience. they share a glance before making their way to the stools positioned by the island and taking a seat next to Gaz.

"Sis, how about some tea?"

"Of course, Brother, would you like a cup as well, John?"

"Would be nice, Mar, thank you,"

Gaz sits in silence next to the two older men sipping on his steaming cup of morning coffee glaring at them from the corner of his eyes.

"So..., tell me lad..., how did the sausage feel in your hand this morning then?"

Gaz choked on a mouthful of coffee before he spat the hot dark liquid over the countertop catching his breath, he settled himself as Margret stared at him with widened eyes.

"Are you alright dear?"

"Yes, sorry about that, Ma'am,"

Price and Patrick burst out laughing slapping each other on the shoulder as they continue hollering hysterically at one another.

"What's going on this time..., Gaz what did my brother say to you?"

"Nothing, Ma'am I swear, he's just acting up,"

They continued laughing losing their breath and coughing relentlessly as they reddened. A few minutes pass as Gaz buries his embarrassed expression face in his palms as the two older men settle themselves. 

"Oh god, Patrick, you don't have a filter,"

"Don't need one in this house,"

"What you two on about, Brother?"

"Should ask the Lad next to me, Sis, I'm sure he'll be happy to tell you,"

Gaz slides off his stools overwhelmed by Patrick's comment, he remains by their feet for a moment, he exhales loudly and pulls himself together before standing back up and sprouting a wide smile.

"Excuse me, Ma'am, I'll be going back to the others in the sitting room,"

"Ignore my brother, Gaz, he's just acting up,"

"I'm aware..., Just need a moment away from him,"

He exits the kitchen making his way back to the sitting room and enters without knocking and slams the door shut behind him. He rests his head against the door as his hand remains curled around the knob as he sighs heavily with his eyes shut.

"What's the matter, sarge?"

"Your bloody uncle...,"

"What about him?"

He remains silent for a moment as he bangs his head against the door a loud thud echoes through the room as he turns and leans against the door sliding to his rear. He sits down on the floor as he glances over to the men lying on the bed.

"He knows what happened this morning and is in the process of telling your mother...,"

"What..., please tell me you are playing a bad Joke, Gaz,"

"Wish I am, Soap,"

"Fucking hell, I swear that man is going to be the death of me,"

Simon gets up from the bed and makes his way to Gaz, he reaches his arm out to him and takes hold of his hand lifting him to his feet.

"Go sit next to, Johnny,"

"Why..., what you gonna do?"

"Nothing too serious...,"

Gaz does as Simon requests and takes a seat next to him on Simon's side of the bed and makes himself comfortable. Simon curls his fingers around the doorknob and swings it open he glances over his shoulder at the two men on the bed and smiles wickedly before stepping one foot out the door and taking a deep breath.

"UNCLE..., COME HERE NOW!"

"Oh god..., did he just do what I think he did, Soap?"

"Aye..., it appears so...,"

Simon remains in the doorway until his uncle makes his appearance, he narrows his eyes at him curls his hand around his arm and pulls him into the room.

"Hey..., I'm not a bloody toy..., what's this about, am I about to get a scolding?"

"You could say something like that, Dad,"

"Okay get on with it then, Lad,"

Simon curls his his arm around Patrick's leads him to the bed and gestures for him to sit.

"Listen..., Dad, we're all adults here, I'm not going to scold you, for one I don't believe you deserve it, Second were adults and we talk these things out, so with that being said..., It has come to my attention that you overheard the conversation the three of us had earlier, for one what I..., we do behind closed doors remains behind closed door, and must of all I would appreciate it that you do not discuss these things with my mother, I'm aware you're taking a piss on Gaz, however, certain things don't need to be repeated..., especially that I and Johnny do behind closed door,"

"Uncle, I have to agree with, Si, I can appreciate a joke between us, but bringing Mom into it is a bit much, besides, I love that you are a bit inappropriate at times and drive us up the walls, believe you me, I do enjoy it, however, Gaz might not understand you as Simon and myself does,"

"Hmmm..., I see..., Well I'm sorry lad,"

"It's alright, Mr Patrick,"

"No..., It's not, Listen, lads, I'm aware I'm a tad bit too much at times, Simon I promised you I'd work on myself and I've worked things out with John..., Gaz I should have taken you into consideration, I don't know you as well as these two, they know what I'm like and enjoy teasing them, they're my boys and I'm happy to add you to that list,"

"Thank you, Sir, I appreciate hearing that from you,"

"Tell you what lads, why don't I take the three of you out for a beer, My treat,"

"Can't drink, Uncle,"

"That alright, you can have something else, oh come on it's been years since I've been out on a boy's night,"

"I'm up for it, Dad, what do you think, Puppy?"

"Sounds like a Plan, Si,"

"Gaz?"

"Yeah would be, Mr Pat,"

"Excellent, we'll go at 19:30 then,"

"What about Price,"

"Think we'll leave him here with my sister, Johnny, let's give them the night off,"

"Sounds like a plan, Dad,"

"Okay then, it's settled,"

Patrick smiles broadly at his audience sprouting a toothy smile before standing up and making his way the Gaz and pats him on the shoulder and winks at him before returning to the door and exiting the room leaving the three men by themselves. 

Back in the kitchen. Patrick is met with Price and Margret intertwined within each other arms as they kiss tenderly not hearing his return to the kitchen, he sits down on one of the stools and rests his elbows on the countertop as he presses his fingertips against each other and bitting down slightly on his right index and clears his throat.

"Oh sorry, Brother, didn't hear you come back,"

"No worries, Sis,"

"What did Simon want, Pat?"

Patrick glances over to Price and narrows his eyes and winks.

"Oh..., I see,"

"What are you two on about?"

"Nothing, Mar, Boy problems nothing you should worry yourself about,"

"Is it Johnny, Is he okay,"

"Yes, Sis, everyone is fine, think it's best you drop this one, I overstepped again,"

"Oh..., I see, you need to stop doing that, Pat,"

"I know, I'm trying..., speaking of, Listen I'm taking the boys out tonight, you'll have the house to yourselves,"

"Johnny to, Patrick?"

"Yes, don't worry about him, John, Simon will take good care of him plus he won't be drinking, I'll make sure of that,"

"Okay then, Looks like we have a date night, Mar,"

She smiles broadly at him as he continues holding her in his arms gently caressing her along her back. Patrick smiles secretly averting his gaze from the couple as he hides his sprouting smile with his palm clearing his throat whisperingly as Price pressed a kiss to Margret's Cheek brushing a lock of golden hair behind her ear before caressing her jaw with the back of his index.

"Okay you two..., Give it a rest,"

Margret stares at Patrick with a raised eyebrow disapprovingly before rolling her eyes at him. Price winks at her and presses a kiss to her cheek before retracting himself from her person. He makes his way back to the stool he sat on earlier and pats Patrick on his shoulder before sitting down next to him.

"So where are you taking our boys then Patrick?"

"Just a bar down the road,"

"I just want to point out that Johnny had surgery three days ago, so you have to take care,"

"No need to worry about him John, Simon will take care of him, besides, think he needs a break from this house, they have been stuck here for almost a week,"

"It's not that bad here, Brother,"

"No..., but they're young, Sis, don't think they want to hang out with a bunch of old people like us 24/7,"

"Are you calling me old, Pat?"

"Sis..., please, we are all middle-aged,"

"Perhaps, it's a good idea if You stick one of those waterproof plasters over his stitches, Mar, just an extra precaution,"

"Yeah, think I should have a little chat with, Johnny, alone..., Want to talk to him,"

"Everything alright, Mar?"

"Yes, all is fine, Darling..., it's almost lunchtime would you two mind making something for the boys while I have a chat with him?"

"Of course, don't think there's any problems with that, Love,"

She smiles broadly as she takes Price's hand into her own and presses a kiss to his shoulder before exiting the room and making her way down the corridor coming to a halt before the closed sitting room door. She presses her ear against the grain and listens to the three voices within. She knocks whisperingly as Simon calls out inviting her in.

"Hello, Darlings,"

"Hey, Mum,"

"Hello, Mom,"

"Would you two boys go help, John and Patrick, in the kitchen with Lunch, I would like to talk to Johnny,"

"Of course, Ma'am..., come Simon let go annoy your uncle...,"

"Sounds like a plan, Sarge,"

They get up from the bed and make their way to the door as Simon presses a kiss to her cheek and exits the room as Gaz follows soon after, She smiles then closes the door behind them and walks over to the bed and takes a seat on Simon's side of the bed and leans back making herself comfortable next to John.

"Hello, Mom..., been a while since we had a chat alone,"

"Yes, it has been, Darling,"

"So what do you want to talk to me about, Mom?"

"Well..., a lot to be honest..., I don't know where to begin honestly,"

"What's it about?"

"Well, you see, Johnny, ever since that morning you know when..., Tommy..., I've felt guilt building inside of me, you see I knew he had a drug problem and always gave in when he asked for money..., and I knew he beat girls but always turned a blind eye..., I didn't know how to handle the situation,"

"Mom, please don't blame yourself..., what happened, happened and can't be changed...,"

"But it's my fault he stabbed you, Johnny,"

Heavy tears fill her eyes as she takes John's hand into her own. He smiles weakly curling his free hand around hers as he sits up slightly.

"Mom, it's not, I don't blame you, besides, it was him who did it and to be very honest I don't blame him either..., yes he stuck the knife into my side but his judgment was clouded by rage and my guard was down, I didn't expect it if I was on guard I can assure you he would have been the injured one..., probably shouldn't be telling you this part...,"

"It's alright, Johnny, I know a lot more about what you did in the task force, John told me about the situations you and the others got yourselves into at times, Not going to lie but it terrifies me knowing that you and Simon has almost been killed multiple times,"

"Part of the job, Mom,"

"I know, Darling,"

John smiles broadly as he sees the tears in Margret eyes lessen as she sprouts a weak smile wiping the droplets with her sleeve.

"Mom..., so you and Price, how is that going?"

"Oh, he's wonderful, Johnny,"

"He's a good man, is like a father to me and Simon,"

"I'm aware, he speaks very fondly of you three,"

"Can I tell you something, Mom, but you don't repeat it,"

"Of course, Darling,"

"He really loves you, Mom, he says you are his soulmate and wants to marry you,"

"I know, Darling..., I feel the same, It might be mental but I've only known him a couple of days but feels like years and want to spend the rest of my life with him,"

"I know the feeling, Mom, all though my experiences with Simon were a bit different,"

"I'm aware, John told me...,"

"Aye, seems like he knows everything thanks to, Si,"

"Are you mad about it, Johnny?"

"Not at all, Mom, I'm happy Simon has a confidant he can trust...,"

"You know the day we went to clean out his flat I learned about his past with his father and brother..., I never knew the extent of their relationship he never told any of us apart from Price..., he confessed that Mr Tom, was homophobic and hated, Si, for being..., you know,"

"I didn't know he was until the day I met you, Johnny,"

"I know, I'm sorry he never told you, I didn't know either, well I didn't know I was either until that night I called him...,"

"I'm happy the two of you found each other, john mentioned how you two are at work..., personality-wise I mean, would you mind telling me about Simon from your perspective?"

John nods his head slightly as he lays back down crossing his arms and staring at the ceiling as a heavy breath passes over his lips. he remains silent for a moment as his mind drifts back to the barracks and their semi-permanent lodgings and the times they spent together in and out of the field.

"Well..., the person you see here is not the same as I knew back on base, he was..., mysterious and closed off, he barely spoke to any of us apart from being in the field, of course there he didn't have much of a choice, honestly he sometimes came off as psychopathic always lurking in the shadows and locks himself in his room sometimes not seeing him for days..., a real jackass really,"

"Similar to what, John said,"

"You know, Mom, the day we left Simon's flat..., he requested something very personal and when I asked him about it he didn't want to tell me but overheard him speaking to himself...,"

"Would you mind telling me about it, Johnny?"

"It's rather embarrassing to admit but we're both adults so might as well..., We just finished loading his car and were about to take a shower before coming to you, he requested..., we have sex, and when I questioned he refused to tell me,"

 "Did you find out why?"

"I ended up agreeing to his request and finished and took a shower and just walked out of the flat and he asked me to wait in the hallway, I did but overheard him speaking to himself,"

"What did he say?"

"Well..., old man this is finally the end, I'm leaving this shithole for good, your suspicions were right your youngest turned out to be a fag..., and guess what I'm about to spend the rest of my life with the man who loves me even with the scars you damned me with for the rest of my life. So fuck you..., old man, hope you rot in hell...,"

"Oh..., I see, revenge sex...,"

"Aye...,"

"Well..., the bastard deserved that..., sorry..., Johnny, You know Simon left when he was seventeen and his father died a few months after he left and I haven't seen much of him since, Tommy, yes, but Simon not so much this is the first time in years he's been with me for more than a few hours, to be very honest, Tom fucked him up so much that he lost all trust in everyone and closed himself off..., Until you,"

"I know, Mom, to be honest, he changed me too, I'm a lot more childish around him and for some reason, I can't keep my emotions under control like I used to,"

"You two are made for each other, Darling, you bring out the better in each other,"

"Thank you, Mom,"

A delicate knock comes from the door and it swings open gradually as Price materialises holding two plates with egg salad sandwiches.

"You two hungry?"

"Starving, Cap,"

"Thank you, John,"

"That's alright, Love..., you two alright?"

"Aye..., Just catching up, Dad,"

"Dad?"

"Aye, Mom, he has been a dad to all of us so might as well give him the title,"

Price smiles broadly taking the compliment to heart as Margret winks at him.

"Mar don't forget to tell him about his plaster before he heads out tonight, I'll leave you two for now, need to change, Pat is in the kitchen if you need anything,"

"What about Simon and Gaz, Dad?"

"in the back garden tossing a tennis ball at each other,"

"That's good, they're having fun,"

Price smiles once more and walks out of the room closing the door behind him.

"What about my plaster, Mom?"

"Well, Johnny, you really shouldn't be going out tonight..., you had surgery three days ago but I'll put one of those latex plasters over your stitches just in case,"

"I know but Uncle Pat really wanted to go out, besides, Simon will take care of me, these days it seems like it's his life's mission, can't even dress myself...,"

Margret giggles to herself curling her fingers over her lips.

"He really does love you, and seems like he has for years,"

"I know, Mom and I do him, he's like my personal drug a special blend if you will, can't picture a life without him..., will follow him anywhere,"

They continue talking discussing different parts of their lives as they enjoy the egg salad sandwiches Price brought them earlier. They enjoy each other's company feeling like old high school friends meeting for the first time in years. Mid-day transitions to early night as the sun gradually sets over Manchester.

In the back garden.

"Bloody hell, Lt, not so hard,"

"Pussy!"

Simon bursts out laughing at the outraged man on the other side of the garden as the tennis ball hits him in the stomach.

"Got you, you bloody bastard,"

"Okay, Gaz you win,"

"Hey, what time is it, it's getting dark should go get ready if we are going out tonight with your uncle, Lt,"

"You right..., will have to help Johnny take a shower, better go back,"

They return to the kitchen and meet up with Patrick and have a light conversation not too soon Price walks into the room cleanly shaven.

"Cap, your moustache..., it's gone,"

"Nice observation, Gaz,"

"Calm yourselves, Boys, Simon you better go help Johnny take a shower if you want to go out tonight,"

"Yes, John on my way to him,"

He continues out of the room and down the corridor coming to a still before the sitting room door and knocks somewhat loudly before swinging it open and walking into the room.

"Puppy, how about a shower?"

End of part 18, chapter 4.

Scots translations.

going mad - a' dol air seachran