Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

A normal day, what's a normal day? In every household it would start with the parent waking up the kids for a nice meal, they would share breakfast, talk about their projects, go to school, come back from school, do homework, eat dinner, spend time together, and then sleep, but not in her household, not in her family.

The sounds of screams and tears echoed through the rooms, by now they all sounded so similar, unable to recognize if it was their father drunkenly yelling at her brother, or her brother fighting for his life, perhaps it was their mother, perhaps she finally woke from her dead-living state and said a word, or maybe it was her father’s friends, who know, they all sounded angry and filled of hatred.

It’s been like this since she was seven, after her older sister passed away from a car accident, she was fifteen, their father was taking her to the mall, Estela was too young to remember but she heard the story thousands of times as their father beat the living shit out of her brother every night, he was driving her to the mall, then he got a phone call from her mother, telling him Monty wanted to talk to him about something, he got distracted, he never saw the other car coming out of nowhere, and within seconds, it happened, he was there, and his daughter wasn’t.

She was also too young to remember a life where they were an actual family, nowadays, a day without someone being injured was a blessing, and the closest thing she had to a family was her brother who was barely home, and who would rarely say anything to her even if he was.

She was sitting in her room, a book in hand, The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie, she had borrowed it from her school’s library earlier that week, only fifty pages left for her to read, only her reading light was on and her headphone blasting the loudest music possible to cover for the noises in the background, her blanket all over her, so in case anyone comes in, they’d think of her to be asleep, that and the fact that their father spent the money he earned to buy a new box of beer instead of paying for the heating bill that was due last month.

Too concentrated on her book, she didn’t hear the door being kicked open until it was too late, until her father dragged the blanket off her and shouted, by the time she took off her headphones, Monty was standing behind him, dragging him off her “leave her alone!” Her brother shouted “boy-“ the old man said, swinging a fist towards Monty but his fist was clumsy of drunkenness that Monty dodged it with ease “so what? Do you think you’re some good guy? Just because you pretend that you care about her? You’re pathetic! Trash of a human being! You are nothing” Monty put on a brave face, pretending this didn’t hurt as much as it did, he knew tonight was going to be one of those nights.

One of the nights when their father forgot about their deal, he can do whatever he wanted to Monty but never touch Estela, the teenage boy grabbed his sister’s arm, forcing her off the bed “go to my car, now” he commanded, she gulped and ran towards the blue outdated jeep, her brother followed shortly after and unlocked the vehicle, he drove like crazy the moment they got in, ignoring their father’s curses and shouts, they drove in silence, until they reached a spot that Estela was too familiar with by now, a place that Monty preferred to call the Hobo Hotel.

He turned off the engine and then looked at his sister, who was trying her best to keep a brave face “are you okay?” He mumbled, she nodded, luckily, Monty was there to rescue her before the bastard laid a hand on her, she turned to take a look at her brother, a big bruise right on his left cheek, she reached her hand to examine it but he flinched away before she could, she looked down “it’s been a while since he’s been this bad, is everything okay?” He scoffed “maybe he was feeling nostalgic about making our lives a living hell” she laughed “I mean, at least I still have 15 pages to read of the new book for tomorrow” 

Monty smiled through the painful gesture “you’re such a nerd, you’ll get bullied at high school” she raised an eyebrow “you’re not planning on being there to protect me?” He shrugged “who knows?” She frowned, not that Monty didn’t want to protect his little sister from all harm, but his life span seemed short with a father like that, when everyone thinks of their future, all Monty could think of is if he would survive the night, he noticed the look on his sister’s face, feeling guilty, he got out of the car and opened the trunk, returning with his survival kit, two blankets, two sets of clothes for tomorrow, water, coke, a bag of chips and the screen magnifier that Diego once gifted him.

He gave Estela one of the blankets and placed everything else between them “wanna watch a movie? Bryce hooked me up with his Netflix account” He asked the younger one “can we- can we talk for a minute? I’m still shaken up by everything” she said almost in a whisper. 

Monty hated when Estela gets dragged into their father’s mess, if it was just him, he’d be fine by now, making himself forget about the stupid drunk man, but it wasn’t only him, he had someone else to look after, he sighed then made himself comfortable, wrapping himself with the blanket, a cold night that could affect even a guy whose used to sleeping on cold bricks like him “sure, about what?” She shrugged “anything, we barely speak nowadays,” he said nothing.

“I think I want to register in a writing contest that my school is running, the winner gets 100$ we can use that money to have our own place somewhere away from dad” she started, her brother raised an eyebrow “since when do you write?” She shrugged “my English literature teacher says I should give it a try, I don’t know what to write about though” he laughed “write about dad, the father of the year” she smiled “I was thinking about… writing about you” he looked shocked “me? I have nothing good to share, I’m nothing” he parroted his father’s words “that’s not true” Monty scoffed unbelievably. 

“Sure, write about a coward who has nothing going on but sports team, who's failing two classes, who almost shoved a broom up a kid’s ass because he was angry, who hit a person because he liked them too much to the point where he ruined the one time he felt alive, who lost the captainship to a dickhead, who is hated by his father and can see the look of disappointment in his mother’s eyes, I’m sure all of this makes a good story” he snapped, it wasn’t her fault, he knew it wasn’t fair, but the truth is, the one person who thought Monty was worthless of anything more than his father was Monty himself. 

Estela opened her mouth a few times, gathering courage “I’d write about my brother who despite everything, still managed to be active in three different sports and flawlessly bring home victories, the smart guy who rarely studies yet he managed to succeed in nine classes while working to support himself and his sister, who knows he has temper issues but still does his best to control it, who’s too afraid to love even though he’s worthy of love, who’s making the best of a terrible situation” she said softly but he wouldn’t have it, his gaze focused on the graffiti art on the walls to stop himself from crying, he doesn’t allow himself to cry, not when someone else is with him.

The two of them went quiet after that, Estela clenched her blanket, it’s been a while since she had to run away from home with Monty, he’s always prepared with warmth and snacks, beer as well probably but he knew how she felt about liquor and he respected that “neighbours” Monty started looking left and right “the movie, neighbours, I heard it’s funny” he nodded and turned on the movie, placing his phone in the magnifier to make the screen bigger, both of them shared a bag of Cheetos.

The two siblings ended up falling asleep in their seats, when the sun came, they changed clothes and Monty drove them to school, he was unable to believe that Estela was joining his school in a few months as a freshman.

_________

Monty clenched his jaws at his sight, he was standing there, next to a locker, so casually, with his hair messy yet somehow it makes sense, his long coat that barely provides warmth and the most ridiculous scarf there is wrapped around his neck, what was he doing here? He must’ve been staring for too long because he was looking back at him, he felt his heart skipping a beat, and the other offered a discreet smile.

Monty felt his heart skip a beat, he gulped, everyone saw that, or so he thought, Winston must’ve noticed the uncomfortableness in Monty’s expressions, he didn’t stay long after, the whole day Monty felt like he was walking on eggshells, everything made him either irritated or anxious, he needed to see Winston, he needed to know for sure why he was there, so when no one was looking, when the halls were empty, he dragged his arm and shoved him into the janitor’s room then followed inside, locking the door.

“What the hell are you doing here?” the athlete asked aggressively, Winston blinked a few times, he was about to say something sarcastic but the glare that he received pierced his heart and soul “I- was expelled, this is the second nearest school, I have to drive for an hour to reach the other option, don’t worry, I’m not here to cause you any trouble, I’ll keep my mouth shut, I promise” Winston’s reply answered all of the questions that Monty had in mind, it also integrated more questions that he thought about asking but was uncertain if he should, why should he care anyways? 

The other one leaned against a shelf, making himself comfortable, looking at Monty, as if he was longing for him “Seriously? That’s it?” Winston said almost disappointed “why were you expelled?” Monty mumbled “I paid someone to take my SATs and got caught” he answered, the disappointment never left his voice “I tried to contact you, plenty of times, I could’ve used your company” the other felt guilty, he wished if he could be there for him, he wished if he was able to provide the comfort sought, but he wasn’t, he’s nothing, a worthless coward “so yeah… don’t worry, I’m staying out of your way, I’m not going to ruin your macho reputation or whatever” Winston mumbled before storming out of the room, leaving Monty with self-hatred and conflicted feelings.

Chapter Text

He walked into the living room upside down, all but his father’s favourite chair in front of the TV, he inspected the room carefully, waiting for the old nightmare-alike person to appear at any given moment to hit him with whatever he can find. Every cell in his body felt tense and ready to receive a hit or fight back.

But he never came, instead, his sister’s voice echoed through the empty house “he’s gone, officer Diaz called him and invited him for a beer, mom’s in her room as well” he looked at her, leaning against the door’s frame, her arms folded against her chest “did he hurt you?” she shook her head negatively “no, but he definitely hurt the furniture, you get the tools and I’ll get the mop” it was a routine by now, they both memorized it, it didn’t even take that long for them to finish returning a room that looked as if a hurricane hit to a liveable place.

Monty retreated to his room, laying down on the bed, a minute later he heard a knock on the door “come in” he said quietly, Estella entered “can I stay with you tonight? I’m reading a book and the light is better in your room” this was her way of telling him that she was still frightened by what she witnessed, he nodded “don’t be a pain in the ass” was his way of approving.

She already had her book in hands, she walked in then locked the door, Monty had his own barely functioning bathroom in his room, back when their father was a regular man, he thought Monty should be spoiled for being a boy and that he needed his own space since he’s outnumbered by sisters, and Monty learned to get everything that he needed in his room to limit his interactions with both of his parents, both were equally terrible, his mother who wept around the house, his father who is always drunk, he hated Isabella for dying, he wished if it was him instead, her death killed the entire family.

“Were you at Diego’s?” Estella asked out of nowhere, the boy was slightly surprised by the question “no, why?” she shrugged, her eyes focused on the book in hand “no reason, you’ve been out of the house a lot lately and I just wanted to make sure you’re okay” he blinked, it was true, he’s been spending whatever time he could spend at Winston’s house, after Bryce abandoning him the way he did, Monty was doubting the strength of the whatsoever called brothers bond.

“I’m okay, just hanging out” he hoped it would be the end of the unnecessary series of questions, she nodded understanding, suspecting that her brother was seeing someone, not that she minded “will you introduce me to that someone anytime soon?” Monty frowned “I can’t” he simply replied, with that she understood.

______________________________

Its been five days since Winston disappeared, Monty didn’t care though, he wasn’t worried about him at all, he didn’t give shit if he wasn’t seen at school for five days, and he definitely didn’t go snooping near Tyler Down who was ironically Winston’s friend to figure out if he knows something, not asked Estella to investigate, she already knew Monty saw a guy during the summer, he never told her who, she connected the dots when he asked her to seek information, she didn’t mind, truth be told, she liked Winston.

He was in the parking lot when Estella returned with a grin, one telling him that she knows something she shouldn’t know “can I just say, I approve?” she said without getting into further details, Monty felt anxious, Estella noticed “relax, I’m not dad, I want you to be happy and I know how to keep a secret” she assured him, but this didn’t make him feel less stressed, she knows, this was a mistake, what if their dad would be able to extract that information from her “can you just get it over with it?”

He said grumpily, she rolled her eyes “I asked Tyler, and he said he texted him a few times, he only replied with sick so he’s probably sick at home” she said in a low tone, Monty nodded “come on, let’s go home” she shook her head “actually, I applied for the school’s paper, we have a late meeting, don’t worry I’ll find my way home” she explained, he wasn’t impressed but he promised her he won’t be a dick about it “you’re going home?” he shrugged “where else would I go?” she rolled her eyes “whatever, here” she gave him her backpack then disappeared back into the school.

He shoved the thing in the backseat then started driving to his house, he reached the doorway and parked in front of the living room’s window, he glimpsed his father arguing with their weeping mother, it wasn’t loud, it wasn’t violent, but he was still angry, if he walks in, he’d drag him into the mess, the Latino boy's hands clenched to the steering wheel and before he knew it, he was back on the road, zoning out as he drove through the familiar streets until he reached one specific neighbourhood.

It took him a minute to decide what to do, whether he should go knock on the door or drive away, the garage lights were off, which means the parents weren’t home, and the blue Audi was visible through the garage’s windows, he was home, he found himself knocking on the door before he could stop himself, but no one opened, Monty felt a burn in his heart, something didn’t feel right, he remembered one time, Winston forgot his keys and he moved a rock in the wall and dragged a spare one, he did that and unlocked the door, returned everything as it was then walked inside.

The house was empty, all the lights were off, he frowned, he climbed the stairs to the room he knows the best, then opened the door, slowly, he saw him, laying on the bed, his back to the door, Monty took few steps closer “Win” he whispered, but the other didn’t reply he stepped in front of him and crouched on the floor, Winston’s eyes were puffy and wide open, so was his mouth, the state of him worried the athlete.

“Win” he repeated, that’s when the other seemed to snap out of his awakening coma, he blinked a few times “hey, are you okay?” Monty asked, genuinely worried “am I hallucinating?” Winston asked weakly “do you usually hallucinate about your summer fling?” the raven-haired boy didn’t reply, this wasn’t the Winston he knew, this wasn’t the safe place he spent his summer at, the room was too dark and it smelled like death.

Monty laid down next to him, facing him, he wrapped an arm around his waist and he could swear that Winston was crying but his tears were too drained to come out “what happened?” The brunette asked, the other moved weakly until he was hiding in Monty’s chest, quietly sobbing, begging for any comfort even if it was pity from his ex, although that was never the case, he was genuinely worried.

“I- I’m a f-failure,” he said between his sobs “no one will ever l-love me” he added, Monty wanted to scream that it was not true, that he loved him, but who was he to love? He’s nothing, a coward, he clenched his jaws “pretend that you do, please, just for today” he begged, but how can Monty pretend that he has feelings that he already has?

Monty remained quiet as he listened to Winston’s cries, holding him as tight as he could, he wasn’t sure what else he could do, how else he could help, it was around night time when Winston calmed, when he was able to form sentences without ending up crying “Win, what happened?” Monty tried his luck again, the raven-haired moved a bit further, creating enough distance for them to look at each other “I’m okay now, you don’t have to pity me, you can go if you want” he said stubbornly but Monty was hotheaded.

“The usual crap, my parents reminding me that I’m a failure” he mumbled “I know I scared you, I’m sorry, it’s a normal thing-“, “this isn’t normal, I’ve never seen you like this before” Monty replied “you never had to” the other said “look, it’s okay, sometimes I get depressed” Winston tried to ridicule the situation but Monty wasn’t having it, depressed, Winston was depressed “is it because of Hillcrest that you’ve been depressed?” He shook his head negatively “it’s been like this for years, I have my moments” he frowned, years, yet last summer he doesn’t remember a day when he didn’t see Winston smiling and laughing like an idiot ray of sunshine.

“What about your therapist? Does he know about this?” Winston laughed at the stereotyping “my parents wouldn’t risk being scandalized by their failure mentally unstable gay son any further than now” Monty's eyes were filled with rage, how could they have all the resources in the world to help their son and choose to ignore his well-being for the sake of public image? But again, isn’t this what his father always does?

He didn’t say anything more, he simply got up and offered Winston a hand “come on, you reek, let’s get you cleaned up and fed, we’re watching that stupid movie you like” but the other didn’t reply, he just stared at him expressionlessly, Monty rolled his eyes and picked him up, seeing Winston like this broke him, he was planning on doing whatever he could to return the resemblance of the lover he secretly adores.

Monty had helped him out of his clothes and into the bathtub once they reached the bathroom, the other was too tired to fight or protest, he allowed him to do as he pleased, he trusted Monty to a point, once the water was warm, Monty helped his… whatever Winston was to him into the water and started scrubbing off the sweat of the previous days off him while the other hugged his legs close to his chest.

“So… Edward Scissorhands or Casablanca?” the Latinx asked, trying his best to lighten up Winston’s mood, get a smile or a reaction that didn’t seem so void from him, but he failed, the curly haired boy shrugged and that was it, he decided it was for the best if he washed the soup off his body quietly, Winston will talk when he’s ready to talk, he was a talker after all. 

Later he helped him back into his room, and dressed him in new pyjamas, nothing fancy though, an oversized  hoodie and sweatpants, he changed the sheets, threw the old ones in the dumper, opened the window for a minute to let the airflow, he was familiar with these steps thanks to his mother’s previous breakdowns, luckily for him, Winston didn’t go through hysteria as she did, the blue-eyed laid on the bed again, Monty covered him with the new blanket that he found, made sure he was comfortable “I’ll be back, I’ll just go cook up something for us”

He went to the kitchen, familiar with the scene, he had cooked many times in the summer, and nothing has changed aside from the fact that this time, Winston wasn’t sitting on the counter childishly teasing him for his cooking skills, it took him around 30 minutes to return upstairs with a tray of chicken breasts, water and soda, Winston was laying in the same position Monty had found him earlier.

Without saying a word, he took off his flannel then climbed into the bed and turned on the tv, Casablanca was one of Winston’s favourite movies, the other couldn’t help himself but to start watching eventually, later Monty had convinced him to start eating, he stayed the night, ignoring the outside world for the next few hours.

Chapter Text

“Monty” Estella’s voice echoed through the sleeping boy’s ears, she was nine, he was thirteen, and it was the middle of the night, he groaned and shifted on the mattress then turned to sleepily look at her, Montgomery was a light sleeper, a habit he developed to protect himself, through the dim light he could easily see the frown on her face and the stuffed bunny in her hands, her bunny missed a foot and an eye, it was old, it belonged to him when he was two.

“What?” the boy asked, she sniffed “I’m hungry” he groaned “eat some leftover Stella” she walked closer and poked his arm “I can’t, mom didn’t cook today and dad raided the fridge” she explained, he sighed, the voice of his sad little sister made sleeping seems impossible at this point “dad?”, “he went out with officer Diaz to the bar, he won’t be back before at least two hours” she grinned as he forced himself out of his bed.

The oldest De La Cruz sibling dragged himself to the kitchen, and dug through the cabinets until he found some pasta, he started cooking, boiling it, seasoning it, he was a pro at making something out of few-close-to-nothing ingredients, thirty minutes, that’s all it took him to finish the meal and take it back to his room where Estella sat on the bed playing with her deformed bunny that gave him nightmares.

She grinned at the sight of food “not on the bed!” he said, earning a whine from the child “just throw a pillow and eat on the floor” she was too hungry to argue, she did as told, Estella didn’t finish her plate though, she never does, she knows too well that Monty is usually as hungry as she is but he never complains because otherwise, the food wouldn’t be sufficient for both, she offered him the rest of her food and insisted that he takes it.

“I love it when you cook, your food is always delicious” she complimented, then helped herself into his bed comfortably, Monty was going to kick her out after finishing what was left of the food but by then, she was fast asleep, he didn’t have the heart to wake her up nor the strength to carry her back to her room, he climbed back and fell asleep cuddling his little sister.

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When he woke up, Winston was gone, he wasn’t by his side, panicked, Monty jumped off the bed and started searching for him, he wasn’t in the bathroom, he rushed downstairs, following the noises that led him to the kitchen, Winston was standing next to the counter, in nothing but a pair of boxers and… Monty’s flannel, he was blasting some music and dancing while preparing coffee as if yesterday never happened.

Blinking, Monty walked to him “hey…” he said suspiciously, Winston met him with a smile and a plate of french toast followed by a mug of coffee “morning, you looked tired I didn’t have the heart to wake you up” Winston said, placing a kiss on Monty’s cheek who was still processing what was happening, yesterday, the rich boy wouldn’t move out of the bed himself, today, he’s throwing kisses left and right, was he crazy? Probably, almost all white boys are crazy.

“What the fuck?” Monty couldn’t help himself but say “what the fuck is going on here?”, Winston’s smile began to fade “what do you mean?” he asked softly “you! I mean what the fuck is happening with you? Yesterday you were crying, now this! And you are acting like nothing ever happened between us! Like we didn’t end this relationship! Like this was okay!” he blasted “I don’t-” Winston was cut off by Monty’s panicked look “I know a lot happened between us, I didn’t forget, I just thought it shouldn’t stop us from having a day where we pretend everything was okay, just one day, I mean, come on, don’t I at least deserve that after the way you dumped me?” he let out a sarcastically hurt smile.

The answer didn’t stop Monty from worrying nor erased the memories of yesterday, he picked up the french toast and took a bite, then sipped some coffee, Winston did the same, they ate their breakfast in silence then returned to Winston's bedroom upstairs, only this time, they couldn’t keep their hands to themselves, before they knew it, they were above each other, fighting for pleasure.

A sex and two blowjobs later, the two were cuddling naked, staring at the ceiling, Monty felt guilty, he had promised Winston that he would leave him alone, he said the exact words when they broke up, yet here he was. “I think I like Liberty more than Hillcrest, the people aren’t pretentious assholes in here, no one is telling me about their daddy’s new promotion” Winston started “I like hanging out with Tyler, he’s a good friend, been helping me out a lot”

Monty scoffed, he fucking hated Tyler Down with every inch of his body, not only he’s a reminder of what he would’ve done at some point, but he was also treated like a saint for no reason, pathetic “you don’t like Tyler, don’t you?” Winston asked “I don’t give a crap about Tyler” Monty protested “why? He seems nice” Monty rolled his eyes “just… be careful around him, you have a thing for attracting the school’s weirdos and assholes” the other laughed, after all, that’s how many would describe Monty.

“Why do you hate him that much?” Monty shrugged, but Winston shifted until he was looking at him, giving him puppy eyes “fine! He almost shot everyone at prom, then he came back to school telling everyone he’s changed and acting pathetic to earn sympathy, everyone’s forgiven him and he’s treated like a fucking angel, he almost shot you all but sure, let’s glorify Tyler and his redemption journey” he replied annoyed.

Winston was left speechless, perhaps this school was not as normal as he thought it would be, suicide, school shooting, rape, murder, what else? He sighed “well, the only people who would talk to me are Tyler and Alex Standall so” he sighed, Monty raised a brow “what? Did he try to shoot someone?” the raven-haired joked, Monty raised both eyebrows “are you for real?”, “I wish I wasn’t” Winston’s eyes widened “well, don’t stop there! Who?” Monty laughed “yours truly”

“How many times have people threatened to murder you?” the Latinx shrugged “do you want me to include family or friends only?” Winston sighed, part of him feared that it might happen, that someone might murder Monty, he was annoying, sure, and he provoked trouble most of the time, most definitely, but does that justify murder? Monty noticed the change in the looks he was getting, and he almost felt bad, he forgets that not everyone would understand his life and that these things weren’t normal for people like Winston Willams, the son of the famous Williams.

He tried to distract him by throwing kisses here and there, but Winston was out of it “Monty, I think we need to get you out of Evergreen, this… the whole environment is not healthy” the other scoffed “I’m serious! You are getting death threats!” he rolled his eyes “sure, let’s do that! And while we’re at it let’s talk about how you’ve been acting crazy!” he silenced him.

Annoyed, Monty got up and started picking up his clothes, getting dressed, and preparing to leave “it started when I started dating my mom’s work buddy or whatever, Chad” Winston’s voice interrupted his intentions of leaving, instead, Monty turned and looked at him “he… he wasn’t good, he scarred me, I don’t know, he did some messed up things to me, HOE type of things” his voice went lower with each word, Monty could hear how broken he was, yet, he was talking about it, talking to him about it, shit! 

He had no idea how to comfort him, especially after he hinted that he was raped by some rich boy named Chad “After that, whenever something minor happens I start getting these weird exhausted waves, they make me want to stay in bed and disappear, they pass though… this, whole Chad thing is the reason why my parents and I are distant, they knew forcing me to date him was a mistake, and convincing me I was insane was much worse”

Monty sat on the bed next to him, he noticed how Winston’s eyes were focused on the window in front of him instead of him, how he seemed zoned out, in his own world “so yeah… I freak out, I hide in my bedroom, I calm down then return to life, it’s nothing big” he forced a smile “that never happened in summer?” Winston shook his head negatively “you kept me calm, we had our own bubble, but now you’re gone, things are a bit more difficult” he said.

The quarterback laid down next to him, spooning him from behind, Winston made himself more comfortable against him “I wish things were different” Monty whispered into his ears “yeah… me too” the other replied calmly “if they were, I would’ve been the happiest with you” Monty added “you know that you can be, I’m not asking for much, I don’t care about holding hands in front of everyone or kissing and all of the stupid cheesy romantic gestures” he knew this was a pure lie “I just… I just want to be with you, in our own bubble” he turned to look at him.

Despite knowing all of this was a lie, and that Winston wants more somewhere deep down, Monty decided to be selfish for a change, he had taken enough beating to keep his mother and sister out of harm, and he would die without hesitation for any of his teammates, even Charlie the idiot, all of these selfless acts are ought to make him deserve to be selfish just for a minute “okay” he smiled weakly “Okay”.

Chapter Text

Bryce was hosting a sleepover for all of the football team, and everyone was excited, Bryce's pool house was their sanctuary where they can say whatever and do whatever, Monty was thrilled the most, his father was having another episode and it made everyone in the house feel horrified, he was glad to be out of the house.

Bryce had ordered them pizza and brought all the candy in the world, they agreed they’d play Xbox and watch a movie afterwards, the new fast and furious.

Bryce’s pool house was more of a home for Monty than his real home, it was one of the few places he felt safe, besides, his friends were there, Justin, Diego, Luke, Charlie, Scott and Zack, everyone that mattered, the boy had a new bruise underneath his left eye but none of them made him uncomfortable by asking him what happened.

They all understood, they all agreed it was for the best if they kept their mouths shut and pretend that he was okay, they had learned the hard way that when a new bruise appears, it means Monty is on the urge of breaking down, it only made things worse when they ask, none of them had the heart to cut the thread that his sanity hanged on.

Instead, each took care of him their own way, they hosted sleepovers at Bryce's house almost every weekend to make sure Monty had a place to stay, and they had an unspoken agreement that allowed Monty to jump from one place to another when he needed, Bryce had even gone as far as giving him spare keys to the pool house, only three had the keys, himself, Monty and Justin, while Charlie made sure Monty always had a nutritious meal at school, Zack helped him study and Scott would sneak him his old clothes, those boys were his family, those boys were his life.

“Truth or dare?” Bryce had asked Charlie “truth” the blond replied confidently “would you rather kiss a boy or drown?” The 14 years old asked wickedly, making him nervous, “kiss a boy” Charlie replied with ease “gay” they all laughed and made fun of him but he brushed it off, Monty was nervous, the obvious answer was to die, kissing boys is wrong, his father made sure he knew that, being a faggot was wrong.

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He returned home, Estella was in her room, their father already at work and their mother… he didn’t really care where she was, it’s not like she’s made a difference in their lives, he went to his room and closed the door behind, laying on his bed, he was about to sleep when he heard his phone buzzing, he picked it up and his heart flattered at the familiar number, Winston, he picked it up and read the text.

Xxxxxxx-69: I’m not pushing you into anything right? Yesterday was emotional for both of us and I think I might’ve trapped you into a relationship, you can break up with me if you want, my mental issues aren’t your responsibility 

Monty: you seriously think you can make me do anything I don’t want to do?

Win: well, yeah, people can’t resist my puppy eyes

Monty: can you stop making everything so weird? We’re together in a bubble.

Win: fine. 

Monty: what? You’re not going hormonal on me, aren’t you?

Win: what?

Monty: you know, all dramatic saying fine when it’s not fine, girls on period type of shit

Win: you’re an idiot! I’m in love with an idiot!

Monty: love is a strong word…

Win: I thought you tough guys only use strong words like man, muscles, bro and love!

Monty: haha very funny!

Win: can I ask you for a favour?

Monty: already?

Win: I just… need one of your shirts

Monty: you’re so fucking weird

Win: I know! But like, I’m not in a good place rn everything is tough and you can’t always be there to rescue me from me, so it would be nice to have something of yours to calm me down.

Monty: fine, will figure something out

Win: do you still think dating me is a good idea?

Monty: I never said it was

Win: would it kill you to be nicer to me?

Monty: yes. Now let me sleep! 

Win: Come on, don’t you enjoy my meaningless conversations that lead to absolutely nowhere?

Monty: I enjoy it when you talk shit that I understand better

Win: you always sell yourself short, you know that right?

Monty: guys like me don’t get many options

Win: Bullshit, I, for example, enjoy it when you talk

Monty: I mostly talk sports, you know shit about sports

Win: true, but your face lights up when you speak about the things you enjoy. Speaking of enjoyment, let’s meet up tomorrow after school, take me to your hobo hotel, and let’s spend the night together

Monty: fine, will do. ily

Win: ily2.

After that, he had placed his phone on the nightstand of his bed or what resembles one anyways, and fell asleep, enjoying what seemed like five minutes of calmness before his alarm rang, it was time for him to pick his ass and drive to school, he groaned, he began his morning routine which wasn't much, a quick shower, brushing hair, and putting on whatever had fewer stains and didn't stink, ever since Estella took cloth washing duties, clean clothes became rare.

He headed to the kitchen and grabbed himself a toast, then went to see if his sister is anywhere done, he knocked on the door before entering "you coming?" he told the girl who was standing in front of her reflection "I feel ugly" she mumbled, he sighed and walked inside, closing the door behind him "what now?" he asked "I don't have decent clothes or makeup! my clothes are basically whatever fits me from mom and you! Who would want to be friends with me or date me looking like this?" he bit his bottom lip, he wished this wasn't true, he wished his sister had more options but he knew this was not the case "well, the guys at the school are jerks anyways and the girls are worse" he half-joked, trying to cheer her up, but it didn't work, it never does. 

"I should stay home" she mumbled "stay home with mom and dad?" he raised an eyebrow at her, this was enough to convince her to get into the car, and the two drove to school, a normal day, Monty had stayed with his friends, while Estella had stayed in the library, Winston had stayed away, unless its to take a couple of photos for the yearbook. 

Monty had noticed Winston hanging out with Tyler Down, and so did Estella, something he didn't approve of, he picked up his phone and texted Winston.

Monty: Get my sister away from that freak

Winston: Don't be a dick, she likes hanging out with him, and he's not a freak once you give him a chance

Monty: seriously? After everything, I've told you?

Winston: Look, it's not a big deal!

Monty knew Winston would ignore his request, he needed to take things into his own hands, he approached them, Charlie and Diego followed, Charlie was there mainly to calm Monty down if anything happens, Monty stood between the three "what do we have here?" he said with his usual smug, Winston rolled his eyes in disbelief "do you know who she is?" he asked, motioning towards Estella, Tyler, fearfully nodded "good, now stay away from her, I don't want to see you anywhere near her, understood?" Tyler looked at Estella but the other blocked the view "why are you looking at her? She can't help you with this" he smugged "if I ever catch you near her again, I'll fucking break your legs" he threatened, Diego backed him up while Charlie came between them to prevent any fights.

"why are you still standing here? Go!" Charlie advised, Tyler didn't need to be told twice, he rushed out of the scene, Monty watched him go, keeping himself as calm as he could be, he turned to look at Estella, who had her arms folded "thanks again asshole, no one will ever want to talk to me because of you" she walked past him, Monty rolled his eyes, Winston, Winston was standing there and he looked like he had a lot to say "what?" Monty snapped, causing the other to jump, he didn't say anything, instead, he excused himself as well, he still remembers the other's fist and how terrible he can get when he's like this.

Hours, later, Monty heard his phone buzz, he picked it up and it was Winston.

Winston: you are a dick! Estella is so upset!

Monty: well, I'm not gonna apologize for not letting my sister hang out with the school shooter!

Winston: why not? she's apparently the sister of the school's bully, it would be a perfect match!

Monty: you are an asshole. 

Winston: whatever.

Monty: you know what? it's not a whatever! You knew exactly who I was, yet you begged me to get back to you! what did you think will happen? That the power of love will suddenly make me a changed person? 

Winston: this was a mistake

Monty: it fucking is. 

Winston: so... just like that? you're leaving me?

Monty: what do you want from me?

Winston: I don't know! To fight for me? Not to leave me at the first argument! You know how fucked up I'm at the moment and you are giving up on me at the first chance you get? 

Monty: dude- get a grip!

Winston: I'm not your dude!

Winston: seriously, whatever, get a good fucking life asshole!

Monty: Bitch I'm trying!

After school, Monty decided to cancel the plans with Winston, truth be told, he wasn't even sure that Winston wanted to go through with them, instead, the words of Estella stuck into his head, how ugly she felt for not owning new clothes or girly items, he had a few bucks saved up for fixing his car's radio, that could wait, he went to the mall and bought her a couple of things, two shirts that the retail worker swore would make her happy, and a makeup kit that had options whatever that meant.

He returned home to their father and Estella screaming at each other, fuck, Estella, why does she always make up some sort of an argument with the one man who she shouldn’t be arguing with? He sighed and approached them, putting the apology bag aside.

“I’m old enough to make that decision for myself!” she had screamed, Monty scratched the back of his head “you are fifteen! You are not old enough to date!” their father screamed back, that’s sadly something Monty agreed with, she was his little sister, he’d always see the girl in pigtails who hides under his bed whenever an inconvenience happens in life “how am I not old enough to date but old enough to pay rent for a crappy bedroom?!” 

A fun fact, their father forced them both to get a job the moment they reach 14 years old, he’d take rent from both, and they have to magically come up with 400$ each by the end of the month or else he’d throw them in the streets, to make it worse, when Monty was 15, his father took all of the furniture he had in his room and forced him to re-buy it, then broke it to pieces through the years to the point that it is barely standing. 

He watched quietly until he saw his father attempting to raise a hand on his sister, he stood between them, noticing the world record of empty bottles immediately “why don’t we take a step back and calm the fuck down” he said, knowing too well he’ll be ignored by both hotheaded assholes, truth be told, they were a family of stubborn pricks who aren’t afraid to throw a fist then deal with the consequences later.

“It is not fair! You all get to do whatever the fuck you want! You get to get wasted all the fucking time! Mom gets to cry as if its Isabella’s funeral every single day and Monty gets to sneak around with his-” she held her tongue before she spilt his secret, Monty turned to look at her, horror and anger in his eyes “with his what?” their father demanded, neither replied “faggot boyfriend? Stripper girlfriend? With his what?” the man shouted “teammates! I was gonna say teammates!”, “no you weren’t you whore of a liar!” 

Their father threw the first punch, targeting Estella, but Monty would die before he let him lay a hand on her, he took the punch on the lips then another, he threw some as well, but damn him, the man was somehow strong, Estella stood there screaming at their father to leave Monty alone, but the man remained focused, Monty screamed at his sister to run to her room but she never did, his priority was to keep their father away from her, to the point where he got sloppy, to the point where he allowed his father to push him against the wall, so hard that he fell unconscious almost immediately. 

Chapter Text

“Isabella, help your mother set up the table” their father said so sweetly, the fifteen years old did as she was told, she had all of their best features, Estella’s heart-shaped face, long soft hair, Monty’s light eyes, freckles and hair colour, she was so beautiful, every guy at school wanted to date her, she was so sweet, her kindness was contagious to a point, she was loved, perfect, the child neither of them could be.

Their mother frowned at the table setting, they had forgotten the orange juice “dear, didn’t you pick up the orange juice as I told you?” the woman questioned “I think I might’ve forgotten” he replied with a nervous laugh, one that’s sweet “you know it’s Estella’s favourite and she would throw a tantrum if it’s not on the table, dinner will be ready in an hour, do you think you can go pick it up?” the man nodded, Isabella jumped “let’s go to the mall, you can pick up the juice from the groceries section and I can get some supplies for my art project!” she exclaimed “the mall? Isn’t it too far?” their mother raised an eyebrow at her “only 20 minutes drive, please! We won’t be late!” she begged with puppy eyes, the woman ended up agreeing.

The father-daughter trips were always fun, they had similar music taste, the car was filled with the sound of crappy singing and laughter, it took less than 40 minutes to arrive, shop and drive home, his phone rang, it was his wife “I’ll put it on speaker” she told her father and proceeded to do as so “hey mom, dad and I are on our way back home!” she announced “that’s great, we’re waiting for you! Hey is your father next to you?”, “yes, you’re on speaker” she answered “Carino, Monty wanted to talk to you, he returned home and he’s been crying ever since, I think he was dragged into a fight”

Isabella’s expression changed into a worried one “is that dad?” Monty sniffed “si mijo, what’s wrong?” the man said, the boy began sobbing “Monty, calm down we can’t understand anything” his sister begged, her heart breaking for her brother, he was so peaceful, why did the kids have to bully him? He was the type of kid who stay out of trouble, he never fights even when he was being pushed around by others, she’ll kill whoever is making his life a living hell! “Dad, please come home” was the only sentence they could both understand. The only thing he was able to say before he hung up

“We need to get home fast, I’m worried about him” Isabella told her father, making the man feel worried as well, he was so focused on getting there, to the point that nothing else mattered, not even the truck that was driven by the drunk driver that came out of nowhere and hit them from the passenger’s side.

------

He woke up in a hospital bed, not sure how he got there, but everything hurt like hell, Estella was by his bedside “Monty” she was standing right in front of him, showering him with kisses and sobs, he winced, what happened? “Nurse!” his sister shouted, everything was too loud, he was greeted by nurses who were invested in him, he opened his mouth to speak but his throat was dry and speaking hurt.

“Wh-” he coughed “it’s okay, we’ll fix that in a minute but right now let’s make sure you’re okay” one of the nurses smiled at him, he attempted to nod, but the best he could come up with was a blink, he allowed them to take some blood and run whatever tests that needed to be ran, focusing on his weeping sister, god she looked like their mother and he hated that, he hated the image of Estella turning into a soulless weeping woman with no purpose in life.

Minutes later, he was given soda to drink, and jelly to eat, the process was difficult but he managed to do it with the help of his sister “what happened?” he whispered, his voice cracking with every sound “you don’t remember? The fight with dad? He pushed you to the wall and you fell unconscious, you’ve been in a coma for a week” his eyes shot open with shock, a week, his heart began to race, it was alarming to the point that the heart monitoring machine began to beep “it’s okay” she desperately tried to calm him down, a week!

All he could think about was Winston trying to reach him with no avail, thinking he had given up on him again, or Estella crying her eyes out for an entire week, what about his teammates? He abandoned them as well! They had a big game that weekend! Their father will kill him when he sees the hospital bill, that's for sure!! “Monty please, calm down” his sister begged, he felt like he was about to die, and a nurse came and gave him something to relax him, against his will, the medicine worked and his muscles and breathing slowed down.

He blinked again, this time waking up to Winston in the room, he panicked “dad’s home drunk and mom hasn’t left her room” Estella assured him “no one will interrupt” she added, if Monty thought Estella looked bad, Winston looked way worse, and he thought he had seen the worst form of Winston that day at his house, the other smiled with tears in his eyes “welcome back asshole” he leaned to kiss his forehead, Estella took the hint and decided she was going to the vending machine.

“How long have I-”, “a couple of hours, Estella called me the minute you woke up, she didn’t tell anyone else” he climbed into the bed with Monty and placed his head on his chest, Monty weakly wrapped his arms around him, he missed the smell of Winston, he missed Winston, a week. “I'm sorry about the fight, I never meant to abandon you” he whispered, Winston laughed “you didn’t abandon me, you were hospitalized, but for future reference, try not to get yourself hospitalized so often”

Monty felt like he was hit by a truck, he hated how his body was acting as if it was the first time something similar happens, but truth be told, his father was careful in the previous times, Monty guessed it was because he didn’t want to pay his hospital bills “anything interesting happened when I was gone?” Monty asked, Winston shrugged “we missed the seniors' camping trip”, the tired one raised an eyebrow “we?” the other felt guilty, he knew Monty would be upset if he misses events because of him, but what was he supposed to do? Go on a stupid camping trip while the love of his life is laying in a hospital bed? Fuck. 

“Win-” he started but was instantly interrupted by the raven-haired “I know what you’re going to say and I tell you to shut up! If I would’ve gone it would’ve been to catch glimpses of you, you know I hate that kind of crap” the Latinx sighed, feeling guilty, he didn’t want Winston to miss out on things because of him, he was a mess, he always had something going on, whether its an injury or a family situation or a team issue or whatever to keep an appearance, it wasn’t fair, Winston deserved better “It’s okay, I get to be selfish this time” he whispered to himself.

Both remained quiet, enjoying each other’s presence and comfort, Winston was clinging too tight to Monty as if he was afraid that the moment he let go, Monty would slip again, while Monty simply enjoyed Winston’s presence, it made him feel alive. The two drifted asleep.

Nothing good ever lasts in Monty’s life, he’s certain of that, that’s why he opened his eyes to his father screaming at both of them, Winston was standing next to the bed, and Monty’s blurry and dizzy vision could notice the horror in his eyes and the anger in his father’s eyes, there were many screams and loud noises that he couldn’t comprehend, all he was able to understand that their father walked in on them and he saw them cuddling, oh and Winston might shit his pants of horror “bathroom, lock yourself there” he told the boy, he had to repeat himself few times, his voice kept cracking and Winston was frozen of shock.

After a few times, Winston went to the bathroom and did as told, Monty’s dad charged towards the bathroom door, attempting to hurt Winston, that’s when the brunette felt his blood boil, he gathered the strength to get out of bed, his steps were miscalculated and clumsy due to the drugs given but that didn’t stop him from pushing his father away from the bathroom’s door, making sure Winston is safe inside, the machines which he was hooked into were beeping, alarming the nurses but his dad managed to swing a punch before they could separate them “are you some kind of a faggot now?” the angry man yelled “what if I was dad?” Monty replied weakly, his father spat on him as he was being dragged out of the room.

The nurses immediately provided support for Monty to stand, that’s when the rush in his body left and he felt weak again, he brushed them off and knocked on the door “Win, it’s safe now, come out”, “lay in bed, we’ll help your boyfriend” one of the nurses told him, boyfriend? Yes, they were probably boyfriends by now. They walked Monty back to his bed and rehooked him with wires and machines to observe, they also took care of the new punch, Winston took his time but eventually he left the bathroom, they spoke to him but he didn’t answer, he was in one of his states again.

The jock understood, he needed a minute “does this happen often?” Monty looked at him “no, only when something fucked up happens, but he’ll be okay, he just needs to lay down and rest” he assured them, but they shared a look “any history of mental illness as far as you know?” one of them asked, he frowned “he’s not mentally ill, he’s just shocked, someone tried to fucking murder him just give him a space!” Monty said defensively, but deep down, he knew that Winston should probably see a doctor to unravel this crap, truth be told, both of them could use a therapist “Win” he said, repeatedly, the other eventually snapped out of his bubble and started walking slowly towards him.

Once he was close enough, Monty guided him to lay down next to him in bed, the nurses shared a look “we’ll just-” they tried to lay a hand on Winston to examine his state but Winston flinched and Monty held him tight “he’ll be fine, give him space” he said getting impatient “can you please just give us a moment?” he said as politely as possible, doing his best not to snap at them.

Chapter Text

“Dad look!” the boy said as he ran into the front yard of their house, pretending that he was a plane, his father watched him smiling, and so did his mother who was holding a baby Estella while his older sister Isabella who was enjoying the sun rays, it was summer vacation, Monty’s favourite time of the year. 

“If you go faster you’ll be a football star mijo!” his father praised, football was Monty’s favourite sport, mainly because his father loved it, he was also a football player back in school, Monty always enjoyed watching the games with his father, they’d talk for hours about it, Monty picked up his speed, showing off in front of his father, he felt like the happiest kid, that’s before he tripped on a rock and fell face down.

The fall caused a minor scratch on his leg, but it was equally painful, “Monty!” he heard the worried voice of Isabella, notifying everyone who ran to the boy, he was laying on the ground, trembling, holding his ankle, their father shot from his seat and ran to make sure his son was alright “oh mijo” he told him, then started to examine the injury, he might’ve not been a doctor but he was well familiar with injuries, it was a simple scratch “I’ll go bring some ice, you’ll be fine mijo” he had told him.

He wanted to cry so bad, tears began to fall from his eyes as a matter of fact “Mano, don’t cry, it will all be good, besides, you are the man of the house, you have to be strong for us, otherwise, we’ll be worried and scared, you don’t want that, yes?” Monty shook his head at his sister’s words “come on, wipe those tears, dad will be back with ice and everything will be okay, hey we can even eat ice cream afterwards, how does that sound?” Monty sniffed but smiled at her suggestion “I love you Bella” he mumbled, she giggled “I love you too!” 

Their father treated him like a king that day, everyone had pointed out how ridiculously he was spoiling the boy, it was a simple fall, no need for the over worrying, he told him it was his right to coddle and worry about his children and brushed them off, he was so soft and kind whenever one of them got hurt.

----

“Montgomery De La Cruz?” a man in a suit had asked, the other looked at him suspiciously, he glanced at Winston then back at the man, and he nodded “I’m Mikael Smith from Social Services” the man introduced himself “may I sit with you for a moment?” Monty nodded again, fuck, social services, it means the nurses called the incident in, it means he’ll be separated from his sister, he can’t seem to get a break today.

The man looked at Winston and raised an eyebrow at him as he took out a file and a pen “I’m not a fag, he’s just my... he’s been through a lot” he explained, the man looked at him when he used the word fag “I’m pretty sure that no one uses this word anymore, and even if you were, then it’s okay, nothing is wrong with it, otherwise I would’ve dumped my husband in years” he attempted to lighten up the mood but it only made Monty tense more, it was too noticeable.

“Listen, this is not what I came here to talk to you about, Do you need some privacy because I wanted to ask about your father, he-”, “he’s fine, we were arguing like any normal family and I fell, he did nothing wrong” the man sighed “you don’t have to protect him Montgomery” he said with sympathy, these things can be tricky for kids, difficult to talk about or accept “I’m not protecting anyone” he lied “he’s a good father, if you don’t believe me, you can ask my sister” that’s when the man connected the dots.

He put his file and pen away “I see, if… and I say a big if because this is off the record... if you were getting abused, are you afraid to report it because you think we might separate you from your sister?” Monty remained silent, and that’s when Estella walked in, she noticed the mess around the room “what happened?” she asked her brother, eyeing the man weirdly “dad visited and I tried to get out of the bed” Monty knew his sister was smart enough to understand, she nodded then nudged towards the man in the suit “Social Services” her brother explained.

The man got up and extended her a hand “Mikael Smith, you must be Estella De La Cruz” she met his smile with a poker face and his friendly gesture with folded arms, she sat at the end of Monty’s bed, she noticed Winston, and she understood “would you like some privacy?” he asked Monty again who shook his head “as I said, we have nothing to talk about, dad’s good and I fell” he insisted, Estella scoffed “Monty-” she earned a glare from her brother, the agent sighed “let me just explain something, you guys have a mother back home, a guardian, so if anything happened that wasn’t a fall, you won’t be separated, your father however, will be taken away, held accountable for his actions”

Estella glanced towards Monty who gave her a don’t you dare look, she rolled her eyes “do you guarantee that we won’t be separated if we speak” the man nodded “you have my word” she  decided to ignore Monty’s dagger eyes “how long he’d be gone?” she asked, meaning their father “a year at least, ten at  most”, “we’d be long gone by then” she told her brother “Ella-” her brother pleaded “Monty, it’s about time, we’ve been through a lot and we almost lost you, I can’t go through something similar like this again, we are not covering his actions any longer” she told him “are you going to spill it out or do I have to?” 

The fifteen years old was determined, Monty hated how much of stubborn she was, but again, she learned that from him, and he learned that from their father “fine! Dad was lashing out at Estella and I tried to intervene but apparently, I was pushed to a stupid fucking wall and I got fucking unconscious, happy now?” Monty snapped, he took a glance at Winston who seemed to be in his own world “what about what happened a few minutes ago?” the man in the suit asked “we were being fucking faggots and he walked in on us and tried to beat us up, Win’s safe though, he didn’t touch him, I didn’t allow him, I got punched and that’s it” he sighed tiredly “I promise this will be over soon, I just have some more-”, “look man, I know you’re trying to help or whatever, but can you drop the subject already? I’m too tired for this shit”

“Monty!” his sister said angrily, she rolled her eyes “whatever, I’ll answer your questions, we can take this somewhere else” she said annoyed, her arms still crossed, Estella walked outside and the man followed “sorry about him, he sometimes forgets how to be a decent human but he means well” she began as she stopped right outside of the room, mainly to keep an eye on her brother, she’s never leaving his side again “it’s only expected, he’s been through a lot” the man said as if it was nothing “you’ve been through a lot too” he added, she bit her inner lip “not as much as him, so… what questions do you need to be answered to get dad out of our lives for good?” she asked.

Chapter Text

He was playing with his toy car in the living room when his father returned home, he reeked of alcohol and cigarettes, it’s been this way ever since Isabella passed away, her death took their parents with her, that day, they lost a sister, a father and a mother. Their mother locked herself in her room and wouldn’t come out unless to cook a half-done meal once or twice a day, preferably when neither Monty nor Estella were around, she also avoided their father who was drinking himself to death. 

Monty said his hellos and returned to his game, his father stood and glared at him “how can you act like nothing was wrong? Like your sister isn’t gone?” his father said angrily, while Monty blinked at him, he didn’t understand what he meant “it was your fault she died, you know, if it wasn’t for you, my dear Isabella would’ve been alive” his father snapped “I-I’m sorry?” the boy said innocently, frightened, he’s never seen his father like this before “you’re not, but you will be” his father grabbed his toy and trashed it in front of him, Monty watched in terror.

The older man threw his punch, Monty didn’t understand what he had done wrong, by the time his father calmed, Monty was barely able to move and Estella was crying from her room, the child forced himself to crawl into his room, he cried his eyes to sleep, his father never apologized for what he did, instead, this was the beginning of many times.

---------

He was finally released from the hospital after countless medical examinations and interrogations by both the police and child protection services, he was glad to leave that anxiousness behind, his teammates visited, Diego on daily bases, Winston would visit him every night and remain until the morning, he hated how he affected him, he hated the dark circles that began forming under his eyes and how tired he looked, Estella would visit him too and sleepover, he was being a burden, he hated it.

Winston, of course, was there, he was the one to drive him home, although he loved the boy but he wasn’t used to being with someone, he wasn’t used to having someone who cared about him or smothered him with unconditional love, after a while, he was getting uncomfortable and it was showing, that is why he was glad to be home, he would finally have some space to process.

Estella greeted him with a hug the moment he entered the house, it was clean, and no broken furniture can be found “dad?” he asked his sister “rotting in jail” she grinned, both of her and Winston led him to the couch, forcing him to sit down “your doctors said you should take it slow, so a lot of resting, no sports, and let us know if you need anything” Estella informed “I’m fine, you guys can stop worrying” he said as polite as he can be “we’ll be taking shifts to take care of you, and for when we’re at school, Winston will be driving during lunch break to check on you” she told him “no need, I’m fine, really” he said again, emphasising on the last part but Estella kept babbling about how they will take care of him, causing him to have a panic attack “I said I was fine” he snapped at her.

The room fell quiet, both Estella and Winston shared a look, he wasn’t used to people taking care of him, he wasn’t used to being the centre of anyone's attention, all of this, as well-intentioned as it was, was making him freak out, he got off the couch, Winston tried to help him but Estella grabbed the other’s arm and stopped him, both watched Monty clumsily go to his room and slam the door.

“What just happened?” Winston asked the younger one “it was getting too much for him” she said casually, but Winston demanded more explanation “look, Monty’s been taking care of everyone, me, mom, his friends, even dad, he’s not used to being taken care of” she explained, Winston felt a bit guilty, Monty’s been taking care of him as well, he’s never done anything to return his care before now, the other always took the nurturer’s role, even when they were at the hospital and Mr De La Cruz attacked them, all of Monty cared about was Winston’s well-being, although he was the one who was truly injured “so what do we do now?” he asked “leave him alone to calm down” Winston nodded.

The rich boy sat on the couch and watched a movie with Estella, both giving the other his time and space, only a few hours turned into late at night, Estella refused to let Winston drive alone at night, she offered him a place on their couch, he accepted, she brought him a blanket and a pillow which he suspected were her own, he tried to say no but the De La Cruz’s stubbornness ran in their blood. 

Monty never left his room, it was worrying the raven-haired boy, he picked up his phone as he was laying on the couch, and began texting him:

Win: you’re still alive in there?

He watched the screen, showing Monty was typing and then removing his text, it took the other five minutes to respond, the longest five minutes in Winston’s life.

Monty: Yes. Sorry about today.
Win: it’s okay, we were being too much
Monty: you think?
Win: You are an asshole
Monty: What a shocker. Look, I’ll make it up for you tomorrow, I’ll drive to your place and we can spend the day together
Win: A) You are not driving anywhere, the doctor said it'll be at least a month before you get behind the wheel, I’ll hide your keys B) You shouldn’t pretend that you are all healthy, let us take care of you for a change C) Why wait until tomorrow? I’m still at your place, Estella wouldn’t let me leave, and for your birthday I’ll buy you a new couch
Monty: I’ll hotwire it then, this is your first time at my place and you choose to sleep on the couch?
Win: choosing is a strong word
Monty: I didn’t think you’d actually give me space, you don’t usually listen to me
Win: that’s because you don’t always have the brightest ideas
Monty: ouch, come over?

Winston needn’t be told twice, he quickly abandoned the couch and went to Monty’s room who said nothing but gestured for him to join him on his single bed, Winston did as told, and the two cuddled themselves to sleep, the most liked part by Monty in the whole hospital situation is when they lay down together.

Chapter Text

“Get out of my house!” their father screamed at the top of his lungs, Estella hid in Monty’s room, watching her brother get kicked and dragged out of their house, he was barely sixteen, and she remembers the first time this happened, Monty had sobbed and begged his dad to keep him home, now he just stares at him dead in the eyes, with no emotions displayed, he had his keys in his pocket, he allowed his father to have the stupid parade before calmly driving away.

She wished she was as strong as he was, instead, she was doomed to sob and weep as if it was the first time she ever sees the scene unfold, even with Monty telling her thousands of times that he is okay, that he’ll be okay, and that he is safer on the streets than he is inside, even when he texts her his location, tonight was no different.

She hid in her brother’s room, under his sheet while their father continued his unjustified drunken tantrum, Monty had texted her that he was at the hobo hotel, it was mostly safe, and he had hobo Steve to look after him, an old man who seemed to like Monty well enough to wake him up if danger approaches, he’s been more of a parent to Monty than his real parents, he had told her stories of him.

She tried to remember what caused their father to rage like this, was it Monty eating too much? Or eating too little? Perhaps it was him coming home too late? Or maybe too early? One can never truly know, all she knows is that their home is now a full nightmare.

_______

Monty was the first to wake up with a headache, it took him a minute to remember what happened, and it took him five to calm down after he noticed Winston sleeping next to him, his father was gone behind bars, his mother was doing whatever she was doing in her room, and they were safe.

He sighed, this was unbelievable, he was free, but how can he ever truly be free? He tried to switch his position to get a better look at Winston, who slept soundlessly, as if he was the safest and the happiest human alive, jolts of pain made the movement difficult but it’s not like he hadn’t played sports with a broken rib before, he is unstoppable, he caressed his whatever Winston was’s hair, his touch so delicate as if he was holding an ancient porcelain doll, afraid of waking him up or worse, causing him to turn crazy again.

Their peace was disturbed by Estella storming in, shouting “I’m not looking” with her hand covering her eyes just in case they were doing the nasty, Winston whined but ended up waking up regardless “You can look, we aren’t doing anything” Monty scoffed, she put her hand down, rolling her eyes “well, disappointing, but like, it’s almost school time and since you aren’t going to school yet, Winston needs to drive me” she explained, Monty forced himself up, a hand is placed on his ribs “I will drive you” he said only to be met by a “no” from both.

Winston dragged himself out of the bed, his messy hair falling all over his face, Monty thought he looked the cutest but he would never tell “I’ll drive her to school, I have to attend classes anyways” he yawned, she folded her arms “Monty, remember what the doctors said, take it slow” the Latinx hated every word of this “hey, would it be okay if I grab a few things from home and keep them here?” he asked, taking Monty by surprised, the boy opened his mouth to reply but he wasn’t sure what to reply “what about your parents? Are they okay with that?” instead he asked, Winston shrugged “please, they hardly notice when I’m gone” Winston was getting anxious by the delay of the answer “look, forget about it, I understand, it’s too much” he said before giving Monty the chance to break his heart by rejecting him.

Estella on the other hand, was giving her brother death glares “It’s okay if you do” Monty said, almost in a whisper, again, he was not used to having the liberty to have friends over, let alone his male companion “are you sure?” Winston asked, he nodded “unless you want me to drive to your place-”, “No!” they both shouted, causing him to growl in frustration, he doesn't understand what the big deal was, he had driven in worse conditions, it’s a minor concussion and a few broken bones, nothing serious, perhaps it is the coma?

The two of them quickly got ready for school, Monty noticed Winston slipping one of his caps into his bag but he said nothing, perhaps he needed it to keep himself calm or update his wardrobe, Estella brought a tray of food to Monty’s room and what seems like a lifetime of snacks, more than they had for an entire month to keep his company while they were gone, they said their goodbyes and left to school.

Monty had done it all, he ate his breakfast, he ate his snacks, he scrolled on his phone, texted Winston, texted Estella, and texted his friends, he played games, and even studied online, but the time was passing slowly and one can only do much, he ended up getting out of bed and roaming around the house, while he was doing the piles of dishes that the two left, he heads the rare sound of a lock unclicking, he turned to see his mother, who looked like a living corpse, he blinked at her but didn’t say anything.

“Rico?” she said weakly, he scoffed, he looked nothing like his father, how could she mistake him for him? He was even a bit shorter “No Mom, it’s Monty” he said irritated “Monty” she said cheerfully and rushed to him, hugging him from behind, he felt his soul leaving his body with the sharp pain the simple kind gesture he keened on for so long put on his broken body, he didn’t know if he should savour it for how rare it was or push the woman aside for the pain it was leaving on his body, she decided for him, she let go of him and grabbed herself some leftovers “oh how much you’ve grown mijo, you look handsome, like your tio Estiban” she gleamed, he looked at her as if she was crazy while clenching his fists to the sink, give himself a moment to recollect.

“You’ve always been Rico’s favourite but don’t tell that to your sisters, he saw himself in you” Monty blinked “What?” he asked weakly, “he told me he wanted to teach you everything he knows, that you will be the man of the house, did you know he opened a saving bank account for you when you were born?” she grinned, his mother was disassociated, as if the past few years never happen “you were mine too, the easiest birth I had, you’ve been always such a good boy” he laughed “I was your favourite?” he asked, she nodded without hesitation “well, mom, you had a crappy way of showing it, I don’t remember being anyone’s favourite when I was dad’s punchbag,” he said sarcastically.

He understood his mother was mentally unstable, but so was he, he was tired of holding everything in and god knows how hard he tried “Carino, please, your father only did what he did out of love!” Monty felt his blood boil “Out of love? Look at my face!” he shouted “Look at those bruises he left on me! Tell me this is out of love!” he said grabbing a plate and throwing it on the ground “dad only loved Isabella and God I wish I was the one who died in that stupid car crash and don’t fucking tell me that you love me after you stood there and did nothing! I’m 17 Mom, almost 18 and I had 34 broken bones in the span of five fucking years, while you allowed it, don’t you dare to even pretend that you gave a damn about me or Estella!” he shouted, his hands finding their way to more plates to throw, his mother stood dazzled, he only stopped when the pain got too much forcing him to retreated to his room.

Chapter Text

Monty was sitting on the cold ground, hugging his bike, an old man approached him, he was dirty and seemed homeless, Monty was frightened by his sight, but the man moved his hands in a peaceful gesture “what are you doing here, son?” the man asked “I’m not your son” the young one said aggressively “alright, alright, are you hungry?” Monty wanted to tell him to fuck off but the growl in his stomach gave him away, the man took out a well wrapped sandwich and gave it to Monty, it had Subway’s logo on it, he hesitated but the man encouraged him to take it.

Monty took it and thanked him, taking the first bite, he eventually found himself finishing the sandwich while the man watched “I'm sorry, I should’ve asked you if you wanted some” he said guiltily “it’s alright, I already ate lunch, I can survive until my next meal” Monty frowned, the man was homeless and he ate his dinner “I’m Monty” Monty mumbled “well, nice to meet you Monty, I’m Steven but everyone calls me Steve” the friendly old man offered with a smile “are you here all alone?” Monty nodded.

“Well, you shouldn't be, the streets are a very dangerous place” he said, Monty’s eyes teared “I have nowhere else to go, dad kicked me out” he tried to keep a strong face regardless, the man saw through his act, his heart broke but said nothing, giving him the dignity of that at least “it’s alright boy, you are not alone anymore” 

-----

Estella returned sometime around 7 p.m., alone, she had noticed the broken plates and immediately went to check on her brother, who was panting in his bed with pain and… crying? Was Monty crying? “Monty?” she asked, he immediately wiped off his tears and forced a straight face “what happened?” she asked, he shook his head “just being dad, I’ll clean up the mess” he said calmly “it’s okay I got it this time, are you okay?” she asked worriedly, he nodded and put on the fakest smile “Monty… you can talk to me, please don’t carry the burdens of the world on your shoulders, you are not alone” 

“well, I fucking can’t Estella, who on earth could carry the weight of my pain? You? You are barely holding it together yourself! Winston? Well, guess what? He’s probably more fucked up than I’m! My friends who will ditch me the moment I hold Winston’s hands? Or perhaps mom? The only person who was strong enough for my shit is fucking dead!” he said, remembering Steve, the parent he deserved, the friend who passed away last year, the one he found laying coldly on the ground and no one but him gave a damn that he was gone.

Estella held back her tongue, she tried to remind herself that her brother was going though a lot, that is why he is lashing out the way he was, Monty blinked a few times “where is Winston?” he asked her, she shrugged “I thought he was already home, I was at school” Monty cursed beneath his breath and picked up his phone, 7 p.m., had time flown so fast? He called Winston’s phone at least 10 times before getting an answer, the answer only left his heart pounder, something was wrong, the call was rushed and he could tell that Winston had been crying, he was also not alone, he heard his mother call his name.

He instantly got up and attempted to put on his jacket, the pain was too much he almost fell if it wasn’t for Estella supporting him “where do you think you are going?” she asked him “I have to go get Win, something isn’t right” he panted, she shook her head “no way Monty, you are barely standing” she argued “Estella! Win needs me, you either help me or get the fuck out of my way” he attempted to stand up again, she huffed and went  to the kitchen then came back with a single pill and a bottle of water “you can’t drive if you are focused on your pain, and I’m coming with you”

She grabbed the keys and headed out before he could protest, the two siblings drove to the rich area, standing in front of the biggest dream house Estella has ever seen, perhaps she underestimate how rich Winston truly was “stay in the car” Monty ordered his sister who almost protested but was met with her brother’s mix of a glare and a pleading eye “fine, but I will intervene if anything happens” he agreed to let it slip, he headed to the front door and knocked the door a few times before an unfamiliar man opened the door “can I help you? I don’t think the garden needs trimming this late at night” he said smugly, Monty wanted to break every tooth in that pretentious mouth of his.

“I’m here for Winston” he said as calm as he could be “Chad, who is it?” he heard a female voice ask, Chad, this brick was Chad? The mid-twenty something blond asshole who hurt Winston years ago “Winston is kind of busy right now” he smirked at him, almost closing the door in Monty’s face if it wasn’t for Monty grabbing the door before he could, he pushed through him and entered the house “Winston” he shouted, Winston’s parents came out of their luxurious living room and looked at him confused.

He wasn’t downstairs, he knew that at least, otherwise he would be running towards him by now, he was upstairs, he climbed the stairs cursing every moment, he went straight towards Winston’s room who was hiding near the side of his bed, hugging his legs, a packed bag next to him  “Win” his tone became calmer, kinder, Winston lifted his eyes up, he has been crying for hours “Monty, what are you doing here?” he got up immediately and hugged his whatever’s neck, clinging to him as if his life depended on it “I got worried” he replied “that’s the Chad downstairs?” hesitantly, Winston nodded.

Monty nodded and grabbed Winston’s bag and took his hand “come on, you are coming with me” a smile formed into Winston’s lips, this seemed like one of those cheesy movies he always enjoyed watching, like he was the damsel in distress and Monty was this knight in shining armour who came to rescue him from the monsters, both of them headed downstairs “Winston! What is this? Who is this barbarian?” Winston’s father demanded “mom, dad, this is Monty, he is my-” he wasn’t sure how to describe him if truth be told “boyfriend” Monty finished the sentence for him.

Chad let out a smug laughter “well, John are you going to allow this to happen in your household? This man barged in without the slightest respect for anyone!” Monty scoffed, licking his lips, his hand scratching his jaw, Winston knew what was coming, he clenched into Monty’s arm, begging him not to do whatever he was about to do, but instead, Monty handed him his bag and approached Chad “and you have all respect for this household?” Monty began, taking closer steps “did you have that respect when you were fucking their minor son underneath their roof you fucking disgusting piece of shit?” Chad’s smugness fell into a terrified one “I’ll have you behind the bars for those allegations!” 

The rich brat exclaimed, too bad that Monty had no problem with that, he swung the first punch, and the second, by the third Chad was on the ground, but that didn’t stop him, he only stepped after Estella got involved, after she dragged him off of him with Winston, this young man, had every injury possible but it didn’t stop him from teaching the brat a lesson “I’m sorry about my brother, he really cares about your son though” he said then the three of them rushed to Monty’s car.

Chapter Text

Bryce and Justin grabbed into Monty as he was beating another boy, trying to drag him away, they knew his action would only result in trouble, it was difficult though, when Monty was like this he only saw red, focused on his target, he was a machine, never feeling the punches until the end of whatever battle he was fighting, the two eventually managed to drag him away and Bryce managed to buy the victim’s silence.

“Seriously Monty, you need to watch it, I won’t always be there to save your ass” Bryce scolded the thirteen years old, who was beginning to notice the damage that this little bicker left on his body, a hurt jaw “he won’t speak this time but you really need to watch your temper, even though he totally had it coming” the rich one said with a smirk, making Monty confused, did he do something good or bad? Was Bryce scolding him or praising him?

Justin rolled his eyes “don’t be a dick, he could’ve thrown a punch and let it go, he literally broke the kid’s nose” the brunet protested, it made sense but Bryce was more focused on celebrating his buddy who taught a fag a lesson, Monty remained quiet, part of him was ashamed of how he lost it, almost like when his dad disassociate while hitting him.

The feeling of shame took over him, he didn’t want this, he didn’t want to grow up to be a sad version of his father, but fighting is all he ever knew, he closed his eyes shut for a moment, only returning to reality when he  felt a pat on his shoulder “come on, let’s go get some slushies on me” Bryce offered, Monty noticed Justin’s eyes on him, piercing through his soul, as if to tell him that he could smell his shame from all the distance.

----

Monty hadn’t been able to leave the bed for almost a week now, after what happened with Chad, all the movement that day had fucked him up, Estella had begged him to go to the hospital but he refused, the doctor would only readmit him, he preferred to heal at home where at least Winston and Estella could visit as much as they wanted and prying nurses won’t come to poke him, strip him, wash him and humiliate him in every possible way, not that nurses were mean or anything, he just hated receiving help from anyone.

Winston on the other hand, began to skip school, he was already failing two classes, he never left the house, and apparently all he does now is sleep, when he is not sleeping next to Monty he was sleeping on the couch, it pained the Latinx to see him like this.

He forced himself to get up and go to the kitchen, hearing his stomach grumbling, he called for Winston several times but the other didn’t answer, a hand on his ribs, he approached the area to find his boyfriend standing near the sink “What the fuck man, didn’t you hear me calling?” he said but the other didn’t seem to move, “Win” his calling became softer, with worry, the other seemed oblivious to his existence, just standing there, he took closer steps, remaining calm.

His boyfriend was standing at the sink with the hot water tap running down his left hand, he didn’t move or flinch, as if he was somewhere else, it’s been like this for a while, Monty knew from the blisters that were forming on Winston’s hand, he instantly turned the water off, cursing underneath his breath the whole time “Winston” he shouted, trying to snap him out of this state, he understood nothing, they were fine, yes, Winston was a little depressed but he showed no sign of trauma or whatever this was!

He grabbed him by the arms and shook him a few times, calling his name, until the other finally blinked and looked at him confused “Winston!” Monty was shouting, the raven haired boy didn’t understand why “yeah?” he said cluelessly “what the fuck man?” Monty said panicked, it took him a minute to process “why are you out of bed? You should be getting rest” Winston frowned, unaware of his own injury, Monty stood there frozen for a moment, did he not feel the pain nor know what happened few minutes ago?

“Win, you are not okay in the head” Monty blurted, the clueless look on Winston’s face was replaced with a sad one “I understand if you want to abandon me again” he mumbled, not daring to look at his boyfriend “I don’t want to dump you, I want you to get fucking help, starting with the hand you fucking burned” he grabbed the unharmed part of Winston’s hand and lifted it up for him to see, he seemed a bit surprised, as if he was connecting the dots “I did this to myself?” Monty nodded “It seems bad, I should probably go to the ER or something” he sighed like it was not a big deal, how was he not feeling  the pain? “Would you come with me? I hate hospitals” Winston mumbled.

Estella returned home to find the two standing in the kitchen, both seemed very distraught yet somehow calm “what is happening here?” she said suspiciously, none of them paid her attention “Winston! Your hand!” she said running towards the damaged one “it’s okay, I’m taking him to the hospital” Monty said calmly “no you are not driving again! You can barely stand still Monty!” his eyes focused on the rich boy’s “stay out of it Estella” he ordered then offered Winston a hand to hold, the other took it gratefully.

Monty grabbed his keys then began driving, suddenly, his own pain felt numb, when they arrived, the staff in the ER recognized them, they rushed towards Monty thinking he’s the one to attend, he’s barely out of the hospital for a week, it was sensible, but he redirected them towards Winston, the doctor came and checked on the raven haired who didn’t flinch not even once during the painful procedure of treating the burnt flash, the doctor assured them he’ll be okay but requested a private conversation with Monty.

“You drove the two of you?” he nodded “you do realize that was dangerous considering your own injuries?” Monty nodded again “I'm alright, I’ll be be fine, just please… fix him” the doctor glanced at the patient, by now Winston was laying on the hospital bed, he was asleep, while Monty’s adrenaline began to fade “Mr De La Cruz-” , “Monty” he corrected “Mr De La Cruz was my dad” the doctor nodded “well, Monty… I will ask the psychiatrist to talk to him for an analysis and a recommendation when he’s awake, that’s the best I can do, and I will contact his parents as well to let them know of their son’s status” Monty placed an arm around his chest and shook his head “don’t contact them, they are the reason why he’s like this” 

The doctor didn’t seem satisfied with the answer, he needed more details “he’s just depressed, he told me it was normal but this time it is taking too long, he needs a pep talk or a pill or whatever, please, he hates hospitals” Monty pleaded “Mr- Monty, I’m afraid this can’t be solved with a pill and a pep talk, Mr. Williams is showing severe signs of depression and trauma, he might need to go to a facility or enrol in regular therapy sessions, he needs the kind of help that you can’t provide or afford” the doctor said, Monty looked at the sleeping one, if they would call his parents, they’ll probably take him away from him “I’ll get him going to therapy, I’ll take care of him” Monty begged “you can’t take care of him when you, yourself needs to be looked after, you are just a child-”, “wasn’t I a child when I had to take care of my parents and my baby sister? Or is it an at your own convenience kind of crap?” Monty snapped.

The doctor was left speechless for a moment “I’m calling his parents, it is the right thing to do” it was end of discussion type of conversations, how could the man seriously even suggest that? His parents are the ones who made him like this! They are the ones who forced him to date an adult, they are the ones who turned a blind eye as their son got raped under their roof, they are the ones who neglected his mental health for so long and brought back that dick who hurt him over and over again, no, he can’t allow them to have Winston again.

He waited for the doctor to go and make his phone call then rushed into Winston’s room “Win, you need to wake up” he shook him awake, whispering a few times, the other woke up dizzy, groaning “Monty, just let me sleep” he whispered back in a whine “Wake up, we need to go, now!” Monty said firmly, making the other sit up, he grabbed his right hand and helped him back into his warm outfit of earlier “what is going on? Where are we?” Winston asked tiredly, but he could see how nervous he seemed “I’ll explain later, just come with me” he told him, then the two of them sneaked out of the hospital and into their car, Monty said nothing the whole ride back home, even though Winston showered him with questions.

Once they arrived they were greeted by an angry Estella, her anger almost faded when she saw her brother struggling to stay on his feet, her and Winston helped him back into his bedroom and laid him down on his bed, she folded her arms and looked at them both angry “would someone tell me what the fuck is happening?” she demanded, Winston sat on the end of Monty’s bed “I would but I’m as clueless as you are” he replied.

Monty took a few breaths until he calmed down and looked at them “you burned your own hand, and basically didn’t notice, I took you to the hospital” he told Winston who looked at the bandages on his left hand, it made sense to him now “we ran from the hospital because they wanted to give him back to his parents” he then explained to Estella “why would they want that?” Monty sighed “because he is not well in the head, and he needs serious help that I can’t seem to provide, but I couldn't allow it, I couldn’t allow them to take him back to those assholes” he argued, Winston remained silent.

Chapter Text

Monty was a smart kid, it was a truth that no one could deny, perhaps not in life, but in school and sports, he was bright, did that alone help him get good grades? No, but if he was such an idiot like his father says he is, how would he manage to pass all his school classes without having time to study between juggling a job, looking after his sister, dealing with the craziness and being in three different sport teams.

The only one who ever believed him to be smart was Steve, he paid him extra attention and helped him with his school subjects, it became their little habit, whenever Monty gets kicked out of his home, he would run into the hobo hotel and Steve would help him survive the night, he would help him with his school subjects, teach him what he missed at school, Steve was a bright man as well.

Apparently, he was an accountant before all of this, but his wife got sick, and to save her life, he had  to make hundreds of bad investments, she ended up dying anyways, and he ended up losing his home, his job and everything he ever was, he always wanted kids, he almost had one, but he had to sacrifice him for a little more time with the love of his life, and now, he has Monty, the closest thing to a family both have.

---

It was Monty’s first day back at school, and naturally, Winston’s too, neither seemed to want to let go of the other, Winston seemed to do a lot better, but that didn’t stop the Latinx from worrying, they walked the halls together, they weren’t holding hands, but they approached the school together “what do you want to do now?” Winston asked “I’ll walk you to your locker, then to your class” Monty replied, the other rolled his eyes “relax, I'm not going to break and go crazy on you, I can be fine on my own” Winston said in a protest, mainly because he was feeling guilty of the pain he was causing the other.

Monty, being himself, understood it as aggression, his expressions tensed as he looked at him “fine, you can go do your own shit” he snapped, he was nervous enough because it was the first day back at school, although his scars and bruises had faded but everyone already knew of what happened to him, he noticed the disgusting looks of pity, meanwhile, Winston was used to being the odd one, he ignored all the looks and the glares “could you just… calm down?” he whispered, standing in front of Monty “look, I know these past few days were torture, I figured… you could use a break from me, you know? Go hangout with your buddies, play some violent sport to make you feel like your old self! I don’t want to be burden more than I already am” he mumbled, looking down.

The other took a deep breath and nodded “okay, I get what you are trying to do, but this is bullshit, I’ll just walk you to your locker and first class, then you can catch a ride with me or Estella” he tried to reason, Winston was not in the mood to argue nor try to prove a point, he sighed and nodded, if it would make Monty feel better then yeah, whatever, it’s the least he could do, the two of them walked towards their first stop, gaining ridiculous glares from everyone at school, Monty had given everyone a hard time for being gay, it would upset many people who were connecting the dots about him and Winston.

He tried to ignore them the best he could, he wouldn’t start a fight though, his father taught him “never start a fight but always finish it” another useless thing engraved in his head, they survived the lockers and were off to their second destination, Winston’s classroom, that’s when they were interrupted by Diego, Charlie and Luke, Diego, being the leader of the group took a step closer “glad you are back man” he greeted Monty, then his eyes shafted towards the raven haired who cowered behind his boyfriend, hoping somehow it would make him invisible, hoping somehow it would not cause him trouble.

“What’s your deal? Why are you following him like a lost puppy?” Luke demanded, Monty took a step back, clenching the handles of his backpack “none of your business man, leave him alone” Monty said, Winston remained quiet “did he pay you to be his bodyguard or some shit?” Diego joked, the three jocks laughed, but stopped once they realized the pair wasn’t.  

They felt awkward, for a moment “go to your class” Monty had ordered Winston, the other frowned “I’m not leaving you-” he said in a whisper “now” the first snapped, making Winston walk faster than he should, he gulped, it was the moment he dreaded, when his teammates will give him hell for Winston.

The three watched the scene unfold “Monty, you alright?” Diego asked, Monty took a step closer then pushed Diego’s shoulder “don’t fucking talk to him like this, don’t fucking come his way too” he threatened, meanwhile, Diego was just confused, he put his hands in the air “Woah, chill man, I’m not going to hurt him, none of us will, we just wanted to make sure you’re alright” Diego said, with a frown on his face, almost sad that Monty thought so little of him “Monty… are you and Winston… dating?” Charlie finally spoke up, Monty froze at the spot.

“So what if we were?” he said after what seemed like endless time of silence suffering, the three shared a look among them “then… we’d say it’s totally fine” Luke said with a shrug, leaving the other with shock, Diego laughed then hugged his long lost brother “you’ve been there for us through hell, you’d be insane to think we’d leave you for liking… you know… besides, the team has become much friendlier since Charlie came out as bi, we gochya” he whispered, Monty fought back his tears “thank you” was all he managed to say.

The Latinx patted his friend’s shoulder “come on, we don’t want you late for your first class” and just like that, Monty was welcomed back into their little group of troublemaking tigers, if someone knew how worried he was about telling his sport buddies, they wouldn’t believe he was walking between them, head held high, and laughing with no worry in the world.

The rest of the school went by smoothly, he was mostly getting glares and weird looks from his classmates but no one dared to say a word, they knew better, even in the locker room, he was surrounded by his friends who were ready to kill whoever gives him hard time, it was intense, yet, familiar, they practiced together, they hanged out a while after, he began feeling a bit like his old self.

By the end of the day, he went to the parking lot and found Estella and Winston waiting by his car, Estella had a frown on her face “you are late! You said you’d meet us after practice!” she argued “I thought you were taking a ride with the weird emo kids” he said casually, opening the car for everyone then began driving “no, I told you I’ll be waiting for you because you said you won’t be late for today” she argued back “can we just-” Winston opened his mouth but the two were too heated into their argument that he decided not to get in between.

The argument lasted until they arrived home, then the two siblings separated into their rooms and slammed the door, Winston stood in the middle of their living room, he was uncertain of what to do from there “my day was nice, thank you for asking” he mocked with a grumble, sitting on the coach, he huffed, the sad thing is that he enjoyed this better than his own mansion, that he felt more like home, sitting alone in a living room than surrounded by his family.

Monty eventually opened the door to his room and searched for Winston, he gave him an apologetic look once their eyes met “we forgot about you, sorry” Winston scoffed “can we just… can you come in please?” Monty sighed, rubbing his forehead, Winston rolled his eyes and grabbed his backpack then walked into Monty’s room “not cool man!” he mumbled shoving through him.