Archive of Our Own ^beta

It had been a long time coming. For the past two years, slowly everyone had been distancing themselves away from Tommy. He didn't even know why everyone began to drift away… it was like a switch had been flipped and he was a breathing ghost. His friends hung out without him and his family passed by without speaking to him most days. It hurt… to say the least.

So, it was April 9th and he was officially 16. Problem, nobody… and he means nobody seemed to remember. He went to school, like every other Friday. He listened to the morning announcements and listened to them read out the birthdays for the day… his wasn't on the list. Even the school forgot. He sat quietly at lunch, eating a the sandwich he made the night before, soggy. He listened to his friends chat and exclude him as they chatted about plans for that night. Nobody even asked him if he wanted to join.

When he got home, he waited… and waited… and waited. He made his own dinner after seeing Techno cook only for himself before heading upstairs to his room. He ate slowly, hoping that his brother would come back down and laugh at his sad face and say it was a prank or something… but Techno doesn't pull pranks. He cleaned up after himself and sat in the living room, waiting for his parents to get home.

Tommy thought to turn on the TV, but what if they were coming home to celebrate and the TV brought the mood down? So, he waited in silence. It was nine at night when they got home, laughing about something Tommy couldn't hear. He saw them with a takeout bag… they had gone out and forgotten him… again. They walked right past the teen and up the stairs, not even acknowledging him.

His heart hurt as he trudged up the stairs… maybe this was some stupid prank… he knew that wasn't the case. His room felt freezing as he waited… and waited… and waited. He just wanted someone to see him on his birthday, but nobody did. He waited until three in the morning, hoping. But there was nothing.

As he wiped tears away, he shakily stood and pulled out a duffel that he used for a family vacation so long ago now. He threw clothes and essentials into the bag, dumping his backpack of school supplies and doing the same with that. He knelt beside his bed and blindly reached under and up, grabbing the cash he had stowed away.

That money was supposed to be for college. He had started saving when he was thirteen. Odd jobs around the neighborhood, birthday money, and money he had secretly stolen from his family… because he knew this day was coming when they started forgetting he existed. There was a good amount saved, too… he would be fine… hopefully.

At nearly five in the morning, he grabbed his bags and contemplated going out the front door… nobody would probably see or even care… but there was a chance they would see and he was done with them. So, he pried open his window, chucked his phone on the bed, and left into the cold April night.

Tommy's heart pounded as he bought his ticket at the desk. He had arrived at little over seven and the train left just before five in the afternoon. He was shocked when they didn't ask to see his ID… maybe he looked old enough or maybe they had simply forgotten. They just asked for his name and he didn't even lie.

Once he had the physical ticket in hand, he sat down in an uncomfortably hard seat and waited. He luckily had the foresight to bring a few books with him, so he pulled one out and waited. Except he couldn't focus because what if his family was- no! They didn't care before, why would they care now?

He got something to eat at a nearby deli before making it back to the station. It was nice out… why did the sun have to shine while he felt like crying? He did have to admit the air was nice and it helped him clear his head… this was the right thing to do.

Eventually, it was time to board and and he took a deep breath as he made his way to the platform. He watched as the long train pulled into the station and he watched as other stepped on before him. Once he was on, he was met with faces of strangers as they all got situated and rows of seats. He found a seat relatively easy and put his duffel above and kept his backpack in his arms as he sat down.

Soon enough, the journey began and he breathed a sigh of relief. He showed the conductor his ticket when asked and stayed quiet for most of the trip… which was a long one. He got some overpriced food and fell asleep at some point. It would take about 2 days of travel to get to Chicago and then about another day to get to New York City. He just had to hope nobody noticed him missing before he got there.

Tommy was right, nobody noticed him missing until Tuesday… and it was because Kristin got a call while at work that her son hadn't been in since the day before and they were wondering if he was sick. She immediately called Phil and the two of them got home in record time. They both ran to their youngest's room… and found the closet door open with clothes strung about and missing. On the bed was their son's phone.

On the wall, as they were searching, they saw the calendar with April 9th marked off with red ink, "HAPPY BIRTHDAY," it read. Oh god.

They searched high and low throughout the room for any sign of their son… nothing. They eventually made their way downstairs and waited in the kitchen until Techno got home from his classes, maybe he had seen Tommy and maybe he knew where his brother would've gone.

The clock ticked by slowly, Phil sent texts to Tommy's friends' parents. They all came back with questions about what was going on as they hadn't seen Tommy in months.

Soon enough, Techno got home and was greeted with the sight of his parents, worry apparent on their faces. His face fell when he heard what Friday had been, "what do you mean we all forgot Tommy's birthday?"

"Just that," Kristin shook her head as she massaged her temples, "we forgot and now Tommy's missing and-"

"No!" Their eldest interrupted her, "he would've said something, he's too loud to keep quiet on his birthday!"

Phil, who had been thinking deeply since getting the texts back, shook his head, "when was the last time you heard him raise his voice?" When he saw his son thinking, brows creased as he did so, he continued, "because I can't even remember the last time he laughed or- or even smiled."

His son froze, eyes widening, "I- could he be with friends or something?"

Kristin answered, eyes focused on the table, "his friend's parents haven't seen him in a while. I- how did we miss this?"

A police report was filed, but it was too late. Tommy had made it to Penn Station and bought a Tracfone from a nearby 7-Eleven with a minutes card. He had stood outside for a few minutes to set it up and then took a deep breath and then disappeared into the crowd.

Tommy was lucky. He spent a week on the streets before finding the Covenant House and they had a bed. A set bed in the shelter and they didn't threaten to call his family. He got warm food and bed and he felt safe for the first time since he got to the city. He even made some friends… which was nice after everything.

Tubbo was the first one he met, then Purpled, then Ranboo. Although, Tubbo had known Ranboo since they were kids so they were "married" in everyone's eyes except the laws. They became as close as thieves.

After a month together, it was Tubbo who found them a place to live. It was in Brooklyn, but the owner was willing to let them stay in one of her apartments rent-free in exchange for helping out in her cafe. It was an opportunity they couldn't pass up… and so they agreed.

With what little belongings they had, they moved into this nice apartment. Nice hardwood floors and new appliances, including a dishwasher and washer and dryer. Who was this angel of a lady? Someone named Niki Nihachu… he should probably stop by a library and google her name.

The only problem with their living arrangement was it was two bedrooms. Tubbo and Ranboo got shoved into the smaller one, as they were used to sharing a bed when needed, and the bigger went to Tommy and Purpled. They slept on the floor though, all of them, because they couldn't afford beds.

The first week, they lived off ramen paid for by Tommy as they weren't expecting any form of payment from this wonderful woman… but they got paid… really well, too. It was under the table, in cash, but they got paid right. $580 a week… each. The first thing they bought with their new money was mattresses.

They split the cost of everything, they were all in it together. Problem, they had to ask Niki to order for them. None of them wanted to be found and none of them even had cards to order with. So, they each gave her back $150 for mattresses and bedding. They didn't expect her to come knocking with the boxes and a wide grin.

She had also bought them bed frames… Tommy hadn't felt that type of kindness in ages. Someone cared about his well-being for once and he wanted to cry. He didn't… well he did, but in the bathroom at midnight.

It was nearing the end of July when Tommy thought of finally calling his family. Were they worried? Did they even care? He didn't know if he wanted to know the answer. Since his shitty sixteenth birthday where it solidified the fact that nobody even saw him anymore, he hadn't thought of his family much… and then he saw a child crying on the sidewalk, alone.

He had gone out for a walk, as he had become accustomed to, and saw them with a skinned knee, crying. He knelt down next to the kid and comforted them, pulling out a band-aid from his pocket. He always carried them because of his own spills. A few minutes later, a frantic parent came rushing towards them. They checked over the kid and hugged them tightly while thanking Tommy for keeping them safe. And then they disappeared back into the chaos of the city.

When Tommy was a kid, he fell a lot. His knees are scarred from those falls and he could remember a time when he was little where his parents cared like that. He wondered where that care went… or if it was even real. His walk back to the apartment was filled with somber thoughts about his family.

Upon entering the apartment, though, he felt at home. They had filled it with love (and things Niki said she "didn't need anymore"). The air was warm and smelled nice as something cooked in the oven. There were 2 pots on the stove while Tubbo sat at the table and as Tommy grew closer, he saw the distinct red from sauce. Right, tonight's mean was spaghetti and meatballs. He assumed the oven had both the meatballs and the garlic bread inside.

The blond turned around to headed back to his and Purpled's room. He collapsed on the bed and groaned into his pillow. He didn't even notice his roommate was there until he felt something poke his head.

"No dying," the older blond joked. When Tommy looked up at him, he noticed the other was holding a hanger… there were clothes on his bed. He had done laundry and was now putting it away.

"'m not dying," he forced out as he sat up. "I-" he cut himself off, "nevermind."

"Oh?" Purpled chuckled lightly, "what could possible bothering the 'Great Tommyinnit?'"

"Shove off," Tommy chuckled, before growing serious. "Do you, um, do you think my family is looking for me?"

The older teen paused before putting down the jeans he was folding, turning towards the youngest of the group, "why do you ask?"

"I just- there was this kid and- they used to care," he fidgeted with the hem of his shirt, "but- did they actually care or was it all fake?"

Purpled took a deep breath, "I mean, only you can make that judgment, but- Tommy," he sat down next to the younger, "you've told us how they treated you. They forgot you existed, for the most part."

"I know," Tommy's voice was uncharacteristically small.

Before anything else could be said, Tubbo's voice rang out, telling them that dinner was ready. Tommy later decided to not reach out.

It was the middle of August when Niki, as usual, came over to the group's apartment. This time, however, she sat them down… which freaked the teens out. Then she told them that she wasn't going to force, but she urged them to continue their education so they could plan for the future. She understood the problem with that was that they're all legally missing and couldn't attend school and was willing to plan a curriculum for them.

Tommy wanted to hug this woman. She cared for their education and future. It was a clear 'yes' from him… and he wasn't alone. The others agreed as well, though Tubbo was hesitant. It was understandable, as he had always struggled with school.

Before Niki left the apartment, she took notes on where each teen had left off their previous schooling. Tubbo had left home right before freshmen year and met up later with Ranboo when he ditched home at the beginning of sophomore year. Purpled had the same level as Tommy, skipping out towards the end of sophomore year. Purpled had skipped a grade and had been on his own a year before Tommy, but they were in the same place academically.

The following week was radio silence from Niki. She didn't even show up to the cafe, which was concerning. However, their worry vanished when she came knocking (well… kicking…), carrying four flat boxes with a folder on top. She was grinning like a madwoman as she entered and set the boxes down on the table.

"I have more in the car," she informed them, "but I want to go over this first." She plucked the folder off the boxes and waved it around. Then she opened it and passed a piece of paper to each teen.

"Schedules?" Tubbo looked at the paper like it had personally insulted him.

With a nod, she elaborated, "so you can start up your education again. I personalized them and all you have to do is figure out if you want me to teach you Spanish or German on Saturdays and what you want to do for physical education."

"What about work?" Purpeld asked as he read over his schedule.

Niki took a deep breath, "that's the thing, I will pay you to learn instead of working at my cafe."

All the teens' heads shot up, staring at Niki in shock. Tommy spoke first, "are you serious?"

The woman nodded, "I- I want you guys to go to college and make something with your lives. I can only help so much, but I want to help you get to a point you can stand on your own."

That was it. Tommy launched himself at Niki and wrapped his lanky arms around her and held her tightly. He felt her stiffen for moment before sighing and relaxing a bit as she wrapped her own arms around Tommy. This was the first time he had hugged her.

Soon enough, everything was set in motion. Tubbo and Ranboo had different schedules, seeing as the former needed to go back to freshman year and the latter needed sophomore year. Purpled and Tommy had near identical schedules, except the older had contemporary literature and the younger had world literature.

Those boxes? Laptops. Niki had gotten them laptops and Tommy didn't want to think about how much they had cost. In her car, there were books for the entire year. She had put a lot of thought into everything. She had also gotten them a bookshelf and internet that she would pay for. All the supplies they needed had been purchased and all they needed to do was put in effort.

Every week, the four of them would sit down at the kitchen table and do their first class. They had timers set, every hour was something new.

8am-9am: Tubbo had biology, Ranboo had American lit, and Purpled and Tommy had Global Studies.

9am-10am: Tubbo had U.S. history, Ranboo had geometry, and Purpled and Tommy had physics.

10am-11am: Tubbo had algebra 1, Ranboo had chemistry, and Purpled and Tommy had their English classes.

11am-12pm: Tubbo had his basic English class, Ranboo had world history, and Purpled and Tommy had algebra 2.

12pm-1pm was lunch and following that was art. Tubbo and Ranboo drew while Tommy and Purpled painted.

For physical education, Tubbo decided to do boxing and Niki helped set him up with a trainer once a week on Saturday's from 3pm-5pm. Ranboo wanted to try dance… which they regret but won't let the others tell Niki. He goes Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from 4pm-5:30pm. Tommy and Purpled decided to run Monday, Wednesday, and Friday 3pm-4:30pm (which Purpled decided he hated almost immediately).

Every Friday, Niki would put someone in charge of the cafe while she gave the teen's tests and collected essays from them for her to grade. The tests and essays would be graded and returned the following week. She would come back on Saturday and give them German lessons from 9am-11am. Since they all were at the same level, they were able to learn together.

They were happy with this arrangement and thrived.

The holidays arrived all too soon. Niki informed them that they could take a break, like normal kids, until the new year. Gifts were exchanged with joy and they laughed and played games. Even though they were having fun, Tommy couldn't help but feel a nagging in the back of his mind. He missed home, but not nearly enough to warrant going back.

Late at night, on New Years Eve, for the first time in ages, he logged into his old email and looked at every unread message that had been sent. He could hear the people above and below celebrating and his friends in the kitchen joking around as he sat on his bed, staring at the emails.

Some were from his old friends, calling him selfish. Most were from his family. Kristin was pleading for him to come home. Phil talked about how he was making his mother worry. Techno was angry… at least at first. The emails slowly faded and the last one was a simple, "Merry Christmas, hope you're safe. Please come home, we miss you. I miss you," from him.

Tommy wanted to type back and tell him… tell them all he was safe, but he didn't want to risk it. He didn't want to risk them getting a whiff of him and finding him. He was better off away from them because they didn't care before. Why should he allow them to care now? Fuck no! He wasn't letting them get back in his life until he was old enough to say no to their bullshit and leave without having to be hunted down like a deer in the woods.

He took a deep breath and closed his eyes for a moment. Then, he heard the countdown begin. He closed his laptop, pushed it away and got up, joining his friends with a smile. They all watched the ball drop from the TV Niki said she didn't need.

"Five… four… three… two… one… HAPPY NEW YEAR!"

Tommy hadn't told the others when his birthday was, too scared of something similar happening again. He had celebrated the other's birthdays, but he didn't want to let them know when he was turning seventeen… and then he slipped up.

He couldn't even remember what they were talking about, but somehow he slipped up and mentioned that he would be seventeen soon. Then they pestered him until he told them. Immediately after, though, he told them that he didn't want anything big. He just wanted to maybe get a cupcake and hang out with his friends.

He should've known they were plotting, but he missed the silent talks with their eyes as he got back to his essay on one of the books he had just finished.

April 9th, a Saturday that year, he laid in bed a little longer than normal before slowly getting up. He could hear his friends talking beyond the doors of his and Purpled's room. He pushed himself to his feet and when he opened the door, he froze. What the fuck.

His friends had somehow put up balloons and streamers… there was a birthday sign and Niki was there early, waving at him while he stood in his plaid pajama pants and white t-shirt. He turned around instantly and closed the door behind him, leaning heavily on the door. He took a few deep breaths as he glanced around the bedroom before sighing and standing upright and turning back around and opening the door once more.

He plastered a smile on his face, "I told you guys I didn't want anything big."

Purpled, who had been making breakfast, immediately turned to Tubbo and whacked him upside the head, "I told you he wouldn't like this."

The shorter teen made a pained sound as he gestured wildly, not making any coherent sounds. He gestured at Tommy and then at the others and then back at Tommy and then Niki… and then back at Tommy.

Ranboo stepped in sheepishly, "if you really don't like it, we can take it all down."

The youngest of the group paused. Did he really want it all gone? His friends had put more effort into his birthday than his own family had down in the last few years he had been with them. Slowly, he shook his head, a genuine smile was finally forming on his face, "nah, this- keep it. Thanks."

Niki, who had been silent this whole time, jumped up and took his hand and dragged him to the table, "happy birthday, Tommy."

The teen smile brightened as he sat down, "thanks." Then he realized something, "wait, why you here early? It's not even 8:30 yet."

Niki grinned, "Well, I'm going to hang out with you guys and then I'm taking you boys out today, on me."

Tommy tilted his head in confusion, "what does that mean?"

She just smirked in response as a plate was set in front of the teen. He glanced down and noticed it was full of scrambled eggs, bacon, sausage, and breakfast potatoes with toast on the side. He was told to eat up and get ready for the day… and he wasn't going to disobey.

Once he had eaten and gotten dressed, he stepped back out into the rest of the apartment and noticed the group was playing on the Switch that Niki had gotten them for Christmas. He bounded over to them and joined in, swapping out with Ranboo who smiled softly and picked up one of their books.

Soon enough, Niki told them it was time to go and piled them into her car… which was cramped with three of them in the back. Tommy was nervous because he had no clue where they were going. It took about half an hour before Tommy saw it on the left… Coney Island.

Niki glanced at him in the rearview mirror and smiled, "Luna Park opened back up a couple weekends ago. I thought you guys would enjoy coming here."

Tommy was speechless. He kept staring at the rides as they drove past, heading to the parking lot. He had never been to an amusement park before. He had asked several times, begged his parents several times to sign permission slips so he could go… meanwhile he had seen Techno get those signed and get to go whenever he asked. He wanted to cry in joy as he exited the car, heading towards the ticket stand.

The day was amazing. He rode so many rides and ate so much junk.

It was late by the time they were headed back home and Tubbo had his head on Tommy's shoulder as Tommy's laid his own on Tubbo's brown locks. They were about to drift off, but then Niki spoke up, "we have a couple more surprise for you, so don't fall asleep just yet."

He made a confused noise in response, causing her to chuckle. Soon enough, they all walked back up the third floor of the apartment building and collapsed onto the couch (again, given by Niki). Tommy watched as Niki chuckled at them before heading towards the fridge. She pulled out a white box and set it on the counter.

"What's that?" Tommy asked, curious.

Instead of actually answering, she just told the teens to sit at the table… which they did… nobody wanted to go against her. Once they were sitting, she opened the box… and the side of the box… and pulled out a cake? It was a nice cake, floral and soft pink and… how did she know Tommy had always wanted a cake like that? A cake he asked his parents for… only to get something from the grocery store (until they stopped with cake altogether). A cake he always saw Techno getting…

Suddenly, the cake was in front of him with lit candles. Someone hit the lights and his friends family sang to him. He didn't even realize he had tears in his eyes until Ranboo was gently rubbing his back. He let out a sob, smile so wide, and thanked them for being there.

When he blew out his candles, he wished for one thing, 'I wish we could stay like this forever.'

Not even a full year later, that wish was thrown out the window.

Before what happened… happened, everything was fine. The group had finished their school year, took a summer break where they worked at Niki's cafe once more, and then started back up in September. Tommy and Purpled were considered seniors, Ranboo was a junior now, and Tubbo was a sophomore. It had been decided before the school-year started that Tommy, Purpled, and Ranboo would hold back applying to colleges until Tubbo had finished. It would give them plenty of time to study for the SAT. Holidays and birthdays passed once more and now Tommy was the only minor of the group and he couldn't wait to follow in his friends' footsteps to go to the police and tell them that he's not missing and that he doesn't want to be found.

And then everything fell apart on a chilly March afternoon.

Tommy and Purpled were almost home, having decided to cut their run short. Normally they did three loops, but it was only two that day and decided to go down a different street so they would get home quicker. Later, both would wonder about that choice. If they hadn't turned left a block earlier and crossed the street, at that moment, would this have happened to them?

They were just joking and laughing, talking about something that now feels inconsequential as they crossed the street. They waited for the signal and everything… they did everything right. So, then why did a car that was speeding down the way catch Tommy's attention? Why did he realize they weren't stopping and would hit Purpled, who was a few steps ahead? Why did he push his friend out of the way only to feel the impact himself?

At first, Purpled didn't understand what was going on as he hit the ground, then he heard the thud and screams coming from those around him. He quickly turned around, ignoring the stinging from his hands, and barely saw a speeding car turning down another street and then he spotted Tommy looking like a mess on the asphalt. He didn't even think, he just ran to him and hovered his hands over the younger teen's form.

He stared down at his friend, blood pooling around his head and mangled limp limbs. He honed in on Tommy's chest, watching it rise and fall as he heard wheezing breaths come from his friend. Carefully, he cupped his hand on the younger's cheek, tapping it slightly with his fingers, begging Tommy to wake up.

"Come on, dude," his voice was soft and shaking as he pleaded, "you've gotta get up or- or I'll make Ranboo cook you something. Y- you don't wanna eat his food, right? Come on, just- just open your eyes, okay?"

He didn't even notice as paramedics and police arrived on the scene until he was being dragged away from Tommy. Instinctively, he fought, kicking back at the person who was holding him, yelling at them to let him go… until he was forcibly turned around and saw an officer holding him. He saw the officer's lips moving, but couldn't hear anything over the buzz in his ears.

He tried to turn back towards Tommy, but the officer kept him from looking. Eventually, he heard the officer telling him that if he didn't calm down, he would have to be detained… detained? For what?! Helping his friend brother? He was normally the one to keep his head in the group, but Tommy was lying in a pool of his own blood and- fuck!

Once more, he tried to pull away from the officer… well… he got his wish because he was facing Tommy as he being put in cuffs. He screamed at the officer and tried to fight the restraints, trying to rush towards his brother as they were turning him onto his side and putting a backboard under him, a c-collar around his throat. He didn't mean to, but he kicked back at the officer once more, crying out, "he's claustrophobic! He's gonna panic when he wakes up if he has that on!"

As he was dragged to the cop car, he could see the paramedics lift Tommy up with the backboard and place him on a stretcher. He tried to rush forward again, but was held back tightly. When he was in the back of the car, with the door closed, he turned around and watched as the stretcher was loaded up into the ambulance before being driven away. He let out a sob… fuck!

After what felt like eternity, the door to car opened up and the officer was staring at him with eyes he had only ever seen with Niki, "are you going to calm down now?"

"I- I need-" Purpled was panicking still. He needed to go to where Tommy was and make sure he was okay… he had to be okay.

The officer sighed, "okay, we're going to take some deep breaths." And then they led him through fucking breathing exercises like he was child!

He didn't want to admit it, but they worked… "where is Tommy going?"

"He's going to Langone's, on 55th, just south of here," they informed him. "Now, I'm now gonna need to ask you some details and then we can follow, sound fair?"

Purpled didn't care, he just wanted to be with Tommy… so he agreed. He answered what he could, which wasn't a lot. He hadn't really seen the car, just for a brief moment, so he didn't get many details, just that it was silver. He couldn't really answer the questions about Tommy, either. What was his full name? "I- I don't know." How old is he? A numb "seventeen," left his lips. Who was Purpled to him? "I'm-" he cut himself off, looking up from his lap, "I'm family."

He was forced to admit that Tommy was a runaway, "he's almost eighteen, though," he told the officer. "He'll be eighteen in- in less than a month."

The officer simply nodded at that a grim look on his face, "okay, I think I have everything." The teen let out a sigh, "but I do have to ask, do you have anyone to call?"

"I- I'll call them at the hospital," he told them. "I- I just need to make sure Tommy is okay."

He was taken out of cuffs and the ride took about twenty minutes… which was twenty minutes too long. He was led to a waiting room with red wrists and he was told by the officer that someone would talk to him. Then, he was left alone. Someone handed him a clipboard with forms to fill out and a brief comment how Tommy had been rushed into surgery… but that was it.

With shaky hands, he pulled out his phone. With numb fingers… bloodstained fingers from Tommy's head… he dialed the only real adult he knew, Niki.

His voice shook as he told her about what happened and where they were. He barely heard her as she told him that she would tell Tubbo and Ranboo and sort everything out. He didn't know it at the time, but that meant calling Tommy's family. After the call, he shut down, staring at paperwork he didn't know how to fill out.

The call happened when Phil was just getting home for the day. It was from a number he didn't recognize, but he always answered those now. He turned off the car and answered.

"Hello?" He was always nervous when answering calls now.

There was a moment of silence before a deep intake of air was heard, "hello, is this Philza Craft?" There was a voice of a woman he had never heard before on the other end.

With a heart that felt like it was about to beat right out of his chest, he answered in the affirmative, "yeah, who is this?"

Another deep intake, "my- my name is Niki Nihachu. I- Tommy gave me this number just in case anything ever happened and-"

The blond cut her off, "Tommy? Is he- you said he gave you this number?"

"Uh-huh," she breathed out, "Tommy's- he, uh, there's been a- Tommy was hit by a car and-"

He cut her off again, his heart beating even faster, "what do you mean he's was hit by a car?"

A sob could be heard from the other end, "I- I don't know the details, just- all I know is that he's in surgery and Purpled can't fill out the forms and- I had to call you."

Phil was silent for a moment, taking everything in, "where- where are you? I- we'll be there as soon as possible and-"

"New York… Brooklyn to be exact," her voice was soft. "I can- can I text this number? I can send you all the details and then when I get to the hospital, I'll give them your number."

Phil was stunned, his son had made it all the way across the country… just to get away from them. He swallowed thickly and nodded before realizing she couldn't see it, "yeah, no, yeah, that's fine. I'll- I'll book the flight as soon as I get inside. I- fuck, how am I going to tell Kristin?"

Niki was silent before just saying, "I- I've gotta go, I'll, uh, I'll send you the details." With that she hung up.

After a moment of sitting in silence, staring at his phone, he saw a text come in with two addresses. One of them was for the hospital. That jump started him and he rushed out of the car into the home he's had for years.

Kristin was in the kitchen, silently preparing dinner when he heard the front door slam open and then almost instantly slam shut. She, instinctively, turned around and wielded the knife in her hand, only to spot her husband with wide eyes staring at her.

"He's in New York," he blurted out.

Kristin almost dropped the knife in shock, but luckily was able to place it down before going slack, "he's in New York?"

Phil nodded, "we- I got a call from someone named Niki and she said- she said a car hit him. I- I have to-"

Kristin wasn't listening anymore, all she could picture was her youngest, laying dead in a puddle of his own blood and with broken bones… all because they screwed up. She would've collapsed if her love hadn't gripped her arms. "Is he-" she couldn't say it.

Phil was silent for a moment, "I- I don't know." He looked away from her, a look of despair in his eyes, "he's in surgery, but I don't know anything else."

After processing everything, a flight was booked for Kristin and Phil the following morning. Techno had graduated the previous May and moved out right after… they didn't want to tell him anything until they knew for certain if Tommy was okay. They spent the night packing.

Eventually, Phil did get a call from the hospital and he was asked all the questions they needed answers to. When he pressed about Tommy's condition, all he got was that he was still in surgery. Then he got the next call, telling Tommy was in critical condition, but alive. They didn't tell him the details over the phone, but just hearing that was alive was enough. That was when Kristin called Techno.

Their eldest had actually moved to New York City, the Bronx to be exact, teaching English, so it was easy to get him to agree to go to the hospital and see Tommy before they got there.

Niki was sitting beside Tommy's bed, hands clasped together, just listening to the heart monitor. Beep… beep… beep… it was the only thing she could do to keep herself sane and it was nice reminder that Tommy was alive. He had tube down his throat and bandages on his face and around his head… but he was alive. He was alive and she had to keep that in mind.

She had brought the other three teens back to their apartment for the night before they even had a chance to see him out of surgery and came back to keep an eye on Tommy since she was allowed to. She wanted to hug him and tell him everything was going to be okay, but she was too scared to touch him. He didn't look like the scrappy teen she loved like a brother, but instead a young kid who had faced too much in this harsh world… that's what he is, though, isn't he? Just a kid who had to grow up too fast.

Beep… beep… beep. His heart was steady, but she knew the blankets covered bandages and those bandages covered soon to be scars. She knew that those scars brought unimaginable trauma and pain. She knew that the blankets also only covered up one leg below the knee… the other was just… gone. She knew that he wouldn't be able to bounce back from this. She knew this was nothing like the scrapped knees he often sported… this was something that a simple band aid couldn't fix.

Beep… beep… beep. With a shaky breath, she stood on even shakier legs. She ran her fingers through her hair and paced around the room, getting some blood flow back into her legs… and then there was a rapid, loud beeping coming from the machines hooked up to Tommy. She didn't even think before pressing the call light, knowing someone was already on the way.

Right as someone rushed into the room, she saw Tommy's eyes flicker open for a moment before being squeezed shut. She watched as the nurse checked over everything before leaning over Tommy and talking to him and in a soft voice. They waved her over and Niki was by his bedside instantly.

She watched as he relaxed for a moment before his eyes flew open. Tommy looked panicked and the nurse tried to calm him down… Niki tried to calm him down. The nurse was telling Tommy to let the tube do all the breathing, but he was panicking and the heart monitor proved that. He was trying, and failing, to claw at the tube with weak arms.

The doctor on call rushed in and everything felt like a blur as something was injected into the IV and Tommy's movements slowed. His heart rate decreased, but he was still awake. The doctor said something about checking to see if the teen could breathe on his own. All Niki could do was hold Tommy's hand with a tight grip.

It felt like ages, but the tube was removed. To help him breathe, though, a nasal cannula was put in place. Tommy looked out of it and kept glancing around the room and at Niki. When he tried to speak, he coughed and it came out rough and slurred. The bed was sat up and a hospital mug was held up to his lips.

Tommy didn't even seem to realize he had closed his eyes as he drank slowly. Niki just kept his hand firmly in hers, even as he began to drift off once more.

Not long after, someone else came into the room, mentioning how there was someone, family, who wanted to see Tommy. It was just past two in the morning and someone was claiming to be family. She slipped out of the room and into the hall, following the nurse to just beyond the ICU doors. There is where she met a man much taller than her with pink hair that was thrown up into a very messy bun.

There was no smile on her face and her arms were crossed over her chest as she stared at this man, "who are you?"

The man looked down at her, clearly taking in her frazzled appearance, "I'm- sorry, I'm Techno, Tommy's brother."

She took a deep inhale, turning towards the nurse, she was too tired to deal with this, "can he come back with me? I- I know it's usually only one visitor at-"

The nurse put their hands up to stop Niki, "as long as you promise to be quiet, I see no problem with it." Niki let out a sigh and noticed Techno's shoulders fall slightly.

They were led back once more and Niki noticed immediately that Tommy was awake again and looking around. When they walked in, he didn't notice as he was still out of it. He was drifting off once more when he spotted Techno, a small smile formed on his lips as he closed his eyes once more.

As Niki went back to her spot beside the teen, Techno stood just within the room, staring at him. "He looks so small," he muttered softly as he finally stepped closer.

The woman glanced up at him, humming in response, "he eats right, I make sure of it, but-" she takes a deep breath, "but the bed is swallowing him up or something."

Techno pulled a chair closer to the bed and sat down, gripping Tommy's other hand before looking up at Niki, "who are you? How- how do you know my brother?"

She took a deep breath, "I- I'm Niki, I've been helping him and his friends out for almost two years now. I- he doesn't talk about his family often, but he mentioned you once or twice."

He sighed, "I would say it's nice to meet you," he glanced down at his brother, "but I'd be lying."

"Yeah," her voice was smaller than it had ever been, squeezing Tommy's hand. "He'll- he'll be fine. He's was able to make it here in the city, he'll make it through this."

The room filled with silence once more until Tommy started stirring again. Niki glanced at the hanging IV bag and sighed, it was going to have to be replaced soon. She glanced back at Tommy and saw his nose twitch and scrunch up as he opened his eyes. He looked around with confusion, eyes unfocused. He glanced down at his left hand that was being held by Niki and followed her arm up to her face, smiling upon seeing her.

"Hi," his voice was rough.

Niki held back a sob, smiling back, "hey."

Tommy must have realized his right hand was also being held and his head flopped a bit as he turned to look at that one. He did the same thing, following the arm up, but froze when he saw his brother. His breath hitched for a moment, the confusion even more evident in his eyes. A questioning noise resonated from the back of his throat.

Techno had a weary smile, "Theseus."

The teen pulled his hand out of his brother's hand, which caused the man to look like he had just been shot, and raised it to his nose. He fumbled a bit as he rubbed his nose… and then looked confused when he noticed the nasal cannula. Niki had to stop him when he tried to remove it.

"It's there to help, okay?" She told him as she used her free hand to gently pry Tommy's hand away from his face.

He then looked back at his brother, the hand, now being freed from Niki, reached out to him. His eyes, still with confusion in them, held a deep sadness, "I missed you."

The much larger man gripped his brother's hand, "I missed you too, Theseus."

"Why's your hair short? It's- why is it short?" He sniffled, tears coming to his eyes as if mourning his brother's hair.

Panic filled Techno's eyes and he tried to reassure his brother, "it's just in a bun, I promise."

"But it's so short!" A sob wracked through Tommy's body as tears started to fall.

In his panic, Techno raised up his free hand and tried yanking the hair tie out of his hair… which failed and just left what looked like a giant knot, "I promise, it's not short." With a final, painful looking yank, the man got his hair free and it fell all around.

For a moment, all Niki could think about was how long his hair was. How? How could some get it that long and that voluminous? Her attention was pulled when she heard Tommy sniffle again, a smile now present on his face. He pulled his hand out of Techno's again, but this time tried to reach towards Techno's hair.

His legs shifted under the blanket and he froze his movements. He glanced down at the bed, where his legs were… where one continued past his knee and the other didn't. He stared at the white blanket covering them in confusion.

"Where'd my other foot go?" He was still out of it, but there was finally some clarity in his blue eyes.

Niki sighed softly, glancing at Techno, who was looking at his brother's legs as if he didn't notice when he walked in. Oh god… he didn't. She rubbed circles into Tommy's hand, taking a deep breath. "They, uh," fuck! How was she supposed to break this news? "Do you remember what happened?"

Tommy pulled his focus away from his missing leg and turned to her in confusion, brows scrunched together as he racked his brain for any information. Something seemed to click as his face fell and his breathing became quicker. The heart monitor picked up slightly.

"There was a car," he said numbly. "I- Purpled was gonna get hurt."

Niki nodded slowly, "yeah, but you saved him."

The blond glanced down at the bed once more, "did I get hit?"

Although he wasn't looking, she nodded again, "yeah." She bit her lip so harsh she could taste blood, "the doctors they- they had to-"

Techno cut in, steeling himself even though he looked tired, "Theseus, can you look at me?" But Tommy didn't move, still staring at his covered limbs. Carefully, softly, Techno reached out and used the tips of his fingers to turn his brother's head so he was looking at him.

"Where did my foot go?" Tommy tried to look back at the bed, but his head was kept in place by gentle fingers.

"First," Techno smiled weakly, "can you take a deep breath for me?" When the teen tilted his head in confusion, the man pressed on, "it might hurt a bit, but taking a deep breath might help, okay?" After the teen did take that breath, Techno continued on, "you know how you helped-" he cut himself off to look at Niki, unsure of the name.

"Purpled," she supplied.

He looked back at the teen, "Purple- Purpled?" The man looked back at Niki before shrugging… he didn't have any say in the matter since his name was Techno. "You know how you helped Purpled?"

Tommy nodded slowly, "yeah. I- I pushed him out of the way." A moment of clarity, "is he alright?"

Niki jumped back in, "yeah, Toms, you kept him safe."

Techno nodded, "yeah, you kept him safe. The doctors- they kept you safe, too."

Tommy's brows scrunched together once more, "but my foot-"

"They-" he cut himself off, chewing on his lip for a moment, "it's gone." It was blunt, but there was no other way to break the news… it was always going to that way.

"Oh," Tommy was finally allowed to look back at the bed he sat upon, leaning back. He stared for a few moments before looking back at Techno, "can I go back to sleep?"

After getting a shaky nod from his brother, Tommy leaned back and closed his eyes. It only took a few minutes for his breathing and heart to even out. No more talking for the night, just keeping an eye on Tommy and making sure he was okay.

Before Phil and Kristin boarded, they had gotten some information out of their eldest. Tommy… he had lost a part of himself. He was okay… breathing and alive… but he still lost part of his leg. They held each other until it was time to board.

Sadly, Phil and Kristin couldn't sit together. Last minute flight with limited seats… so they couldn't be picky. They both had carry-ons and their heads, but that was about it. Even then, they doubted having their heads as they were both freaking out.

They hadn't seen Tommy in nearly two years and they doubted he was the same kid they cared for… before they apparently disappeared from his life before he vanished from theirs. Did he have the same smile? Did he have the same energy from when he was younger? Did he have friends? Who was taking care of him? Was it this Niki woman? How did she play into all this? How-

They couldn't spiral… not now. Not when they let him down. Not when they drove Tommy to run across the country just to get away. Deep breaths, they told themselves… everything would be fine… it had to be fine.

It was already 4pm by the time they landed. Twenty minutes to deplane and get a taxi. Over thirty in said taxi… so they got to the hospital around 5pm.

They were lead to the room by a lovely nurse who gently knocked on the door before opening it. Inside were their two boys and a woman neither knew. Tommy was sitting up and talking, a sad looking cheeseburger was held in his left hand. He paused when he looked up and saw his parents.

Numbly, the teen set the burger down and cleared his throat, "hey." His voice was so small, nothing like the child they forgot to care for.

Kristin was the first one to move, taking large strides towards the bed and bypassing Techno who's seat was pushed against the wall. She hesitated for barely a moment before wrapping her arms around her youngest. She must've tightened her hold just a bit too much because a whine of pain escaped the teen. Kristin immediately let go, apologizing, "I'm so sorry! Are- where are you hurt? Do- do I need to call for help?"

Tommy, who had wrapped his own arm around his abdomen, shook his head. He was taking slow, labored breaths as his other arm waved her off, "it's fine. Just- fuck! Broken ribs suck!"

Phil, who had been hovering in the doorway, rushed over, "your ribs are broken?"

Again, Tommy was waving them off, "only three and only one punctured my lung."

The teen was not helping the situation or panic.

Soon enough, everyone calmed down enough to discuss the elephant in the room. Niki silently left so the broken family could talk. She had whispered to Tommy that she would be in the hall, so if there was any yelling, she was barging back in.

"I'm not going back," Tommy told them resolutely. "I-"

"We can help you if you come back home," Phil stated like it was the obvious.

"I already have a home," he argued back, "with people who actually care."

"That's not fair, Tommy," Kristin spoke up, "we do care."

"Since when?" The teen's shoulders fell, "since when have you cared?"

"We're sorry we forgot your birthday, but we've always cared," Techno informed him.

A scoff escaped the youngest of the Craft family as he crossed his arms over his sore chest, "so the school play that nobody went to, the- the ignored report cards or permission slips, the blatant neglect meant you cared?" He huffed and spoke again before anyone else could open their mouths, "I was taking care of myself for years before I left. The only reason I got anything I needed was because I copied Techno's handwriting to put stuff on the grocery list. I- when it was my own, I never got anything! I learned to cook when I realized nobody else was going to do it! It was never about my fucking birthday!"

The room was silent for a few moments, just Tommy's heavy breathing and the beeping of his heart monitor.

As Kristin opened her mouth to speak, Tommy interrupted, "the answer is no. I won't go back to a place where I wasn't cared for. I- I have family here that actually cares."

Again, silence. Finally, Techno spoke up, "is there anything we can do to get back in your life?"

The beeping filled the air as the teen contemplated, keeping his gaze focused on the now empty plate in front of him, the crumbs sort of reminded him of grains of sand, "I-" he closed his mouth, still thinking. He chewed on his lip before looking up at his brother, "maybe. You- I know you were busy with school and couldn't have been there much, but," he looked to the left side of his bed, where his parent's were sitting. They had equal looks of concern and caring in their eyes… he wished they didn't have that, "you have a lot to do to make up for everything. I- I can't trust you to not just drop me at moment's notice again."

"We won't-" Phil tried to tell him.

"Don't!" Tommy closed his eyes, shaking his head as his teeth clenched, "I don't know that. You can't- don't promise me that. I-" his lip trembled as he looked back at his plate, "you- both of you said you'd always love me, but where was that love when you stopped paying attention?"

Nobody could speak. The harsh reality of the situation was settling in for the Craft family.

Tommy was released from the hospital after seven days. The mornings were spent with him spending time with his parents… it was awkward as hell. The afternoons were with his chosen family (he was lucky the two groups never crossed paths). Nights were either Niki or Techno (the latter was unable to find coverage for his classes during the day). The teen didn't truly blame his brother for everything. He was practically a kid himself, only five years older and couldn't be blamed for the sins of their parents. Plus, he got Tommy a switch to make up for it… yes, he'll accept bribes.

The only person who didn't visit his hospital room was Purpled. He had learned from Niki how distraught the older blond was. His plan for when he arrived back in their apartment was to whack him over the head… after getting a hug.

Speaking of the apartment… it was a third-floor walkup… meaning two flights of stairs and he only had one leg now. It was a little daunting that he was now facing life with one leg. Some doctor had told him he would most likely be eligible for a prosthesis, but it weeks, if not months, before he even got a temporary one.

So, now he was being helped up the stairs by Niki and Techno. He had gotten a kick out of watching Techno's face light up with surprise when she practically lifted the teen by herself. They had to stop several times and let Tommy sit on the stairs. He didn't dare look at his parents as they stood slightly below with all his new medical supplies.

Eventually, they got to the apartment. Niki unlocked the door and let the group in. They barely got a step in before freezing at the sight before them.

There was a homemade banner with the words 'Welcome Home Tommy! We Love You' written on it with flowers on the bottom. Colorful streamers were taped to the ceiling, dangling down to about where his face was. There was a cake on the table, one of Niki's if he had any guess. His friends looked shocked to see their friend, having been sitting on the couch, and looking at them with craned necks.

"What the fuck?" Tommy muttered, staring the decorated apartment. He shook his head and asked to sit down.

Once the youngest teen was sat down at the table, Tubbo leapt up first, making his way towards his friend, "we wanted to celebrate-" he cut himself off, seeing two more individuals enter the apartment.

See, well Phil and Kristin hadn't met the teens yet, they had met Techno (minus Purpled). So, to see them in their apartment was a bit of a shock. The teens were silent as the pair quietly set the medical supplies down.

"So," Kristin put on a tense smile, "this is your place?"

"Yeah," the youngest spoke softly, "so, uh, you can leave now-"

"Not yet," Purpled spoke up. The older teen glanced at Tommy, his gaze softening for a moment at the sight of his friend alive and… well, not well, but… yeah. Then he faced the couple that had entered their space, his eyes full of venom as he stood up and stalked over, "are you Tommy's parents?"

The couple nodded, "yeah," Phil looked the teen up and down.

Purpled leaned in close and said something nobody but himself and the Craft parents could hear. Tommy wished he could've heard whatever it was because they nodded quickly when he had leaned back and asked, "got it?"

Surprisingly, it was Ranboo who broke the tension, getting up slowly and walking over to the table, "who wants cake?"

Tommy, who had been on IV pain medication for the majority of his hospital stay, hadn't really experienced the pain that came with losing his leg until he woke up in crying early in the morning. He had taken what was prescribed to him before going to bed at 10pm and now it was nearly five in the fucking morning.

His was breathing heavily as tears rolled down his cheeks. He didn't even realize he let out a shout of pain until he was forced to sit upright. There was someone shouting… was that him or someone else? He couldn't breathe… why couldn't he breathe?

Someone pushed a small, dry pebble between his lips. Wait, that was a pill… someone was giving him his meds. A cool glass was pushed up against his lips and tipped back very slowly. He gulped down both the water and the pill, sobbing once more as the glass was pulled away.

There was someone holding him, talking to him softly as he sobbed and whined in pain. They carefully rocked him back and forth, running their fingers through his hair as he felt the bed shift slightly. They held him even when the pain subsided enough for him to make any sense of what was going on.

Purpled had his arms around his roommate, telling him about everything he had missed while he was in the hospital, as if he hadn't already heard it all from the others. Tubbo sat on Purpled's bed, eyes full of worry. Meanwhile, Ranboo was acting like Edward from Twilight, just standing in the corner of the room… menacingly. Granted, they looked like they couldn't hurt a fly… it was still creepy.

The room seemed to still as Tommy cleared his throat, "sorry," he muttered softly.

Instantly, he was bombarded from the others, telling him he had nothing to be sorry for. That didn't ease his guilt of waking up the others, though. He felt like he was being selfish, that maybe they would've been better off if he did go back to that cold house on the outskirts of Seattle. He wouldn't have been a burden to the people who actually cared. He-

Someone harshly poked his temple. "Hey," Purpled's voice broke through the fog in his brain, "what's going on in that big head of yours?"

After a soft sigh, the youngest opened his mouth, "if I went back, I-"

"But you aren't going back," Ranboo spoke up, "they treated you like trash."

Another sigh, "but if I did, then I- I don't know. I just- what if I'm too much of a burden?"

"Never," Tubbo crossed his arms. Then after a moment he uncrossed them, his shoulders falling, "if- if it gets to be a lot, we have each other to lean on and Niki."

"And your brother," Ranboo pointed out, smiling weakly. "He might- well he seems like-"

"If he doesn't help I'll kill him," Purpled muttered, leaning his head on Tommy's shoulder. "Tubbo said that he had said that he would help out, so if he goes back on his word I think I have a legal responsibility to stab him in the neck."

Tommy let out a chuckle, leaning his head on top of his friend's, "please don't get arrested for killing my brother."

"Who said anything about being caught?"

The youngest of the group watched Tubbo light up, "can I help?"

The eldest of the group hummed in response, "do you think you can build that bomb you always talk about? Maybe we can drop it on his house or something."

Ranboo's eyes went wide as Tubbo's opened his mouth to respond, they instantly cut off the conversation, "no more talk of killing Techno or building bombs!"

While Purpled shrugged, Tubbo pouted, "you never let me have any fun."

Tommy's eyes were slowly closing, each blink became harder to reopen, "maybe just take his leg or something. A leg for a leg, or whatever the-" he cut himself off with a yawn.

Purpled, who was still leaning on his friend, spoke softly, "go to sleep, dumbass. That med seems to be kicking in. We'll set a timer for the next dose, okay?"

The younger blond nodded slowly, already drifting off.

The group had a schedule. Every six hours, which was on the prescription, Tommy would get his pain meds. His parents would stop by before noon, having decided to stay somewhere in the city for the time being. They would fuss over Tommy and the apartment and the rest of the teens. They had to admit it was nice to have someone else pick up after them while they just hung out. The couple left before dinner, though… which was a relief.

Techno stopped by after school was done for the day and would only leave after Tommy had already drifted off for the night. He was the one who Tommy trusted to help him a week out of the hospital when he needed a shower and his crutches had caused him to slip of the ground. Techno had held him for a few minutes as he cried, the realization that things were definitely different had finally hit him in that moment.

Speaking of, once a week had passed out of the hospital, he began tapering off the pain meds. Instead, he supplemented with over the counter stuff and cried in pain when it got bad. If he could, he would've stabbed his surgeon for telling him to do this. Based on his friend's looks, he bet they wanted to do the same… even Ranboo.

There were moments where his mind detached itself from his body and it drifted away. Everything felt numb in those moments and sometimes he got lucky and his mind would float back down and land safely. Other times, it crashed and he began panicking in a way he had never experienced before the accident. More than often, though, his mind would be carefully plucked from wherever it was floating and placed back in his body… those times there was always an ice cube clenched in his fist and a friend by his side.

Sometimes, he would wake up or suddenly feel a pain in his leg… the one that was just gone. He was told it was normal, but he didn't believe it. He could very clearly see there was nothing there, so why was there this stabbing pain? Niki had brought over a mirror after one closing down the cafe one day, saying that it might help… he hated that it did.

The worst part in all of this was that he didn't really leave the apartment. The stairs were too daunting with one leg and crutches. He was scared that he would mess up and go tumbling down. As much as Tommy didn't want to inconvenience his friends, Niki's offer of moving them seemed really tempting.

Yeah… Niki had offered to have them move apartments to somewhere he can easily enter and exit from. The others seemed fine with it, telling Tommy it was up to him… which felt like a lot of pressure.

Week three, things began to change. Tommy was taken to an appointment was to determine if he could get a temporary prosthesis so he could learn to walk again without crutches digging into his armpits. He left the appointment with a referral to a prosthetist and a feeling of weight leaving his shoulders. It would take a while, but he would be able to walk again. Though, he was recommended to get forearm crutches…

Tommy, once again, told his friends that he didn't want anything big for his birthday. This time, though, he made sure they understood. He was still overly exhausted and didn't want to go out and do something that would make him even more tired. He just wanted to rest and at most play some games with them and eat cake.

He knew his parents and Techno would show up for dinner and cake and gifts… he was not looking forward to it. He was not looking forward to putting on a fake ass smile just to get through dinner… honestly, the smile might not even make an appearance. His parents were trying, sure, but they sucked at it. They didn't ask him about who he was now and treated him like he was still a little kid.

Techno had definitely been trying. He asks questions and Tommy can see him taking mental notes like he did when they were kids. The teen asked questions back and learned his brother was renting out a shitty room in the Bronx. His landlord and roommate was a bitch… to say the least. It made Tommy want to take up Niki's offer to move and ask the others if Techno could move in with them.

Actually, it was the day before his birthday when he brought that up to them. They were sitting around the table, eating the meatloaf that him and Purpled had made (the fucker had put him to work). Tubbo and Ranboo were grilling the other two about when they would apply to take the GED test since they were now also studying for that along with getting back into the curriculum Niki had put together. The two of them kept brushing it off, saying they'll take it when they take it.

When there was a lull in the conversation, however, Tommy glanced up from his plate, "how would- uh, what if when we move Techno moves with us?" He immediately looked back down and stabbed a few green beans and stuffed it into his mouth.

Nobody spoke for a few moments, the air stale besides Tommy's loud chewing. Then, "so we're moving?" That was Ranboo who spoke first.

The youngest teen swallowed thickly, almost choking and coughing harshly. He could feel Tubbo pounding harshly on his back as Purpled sighed, "don't die dumbass."

"Not-" cough, "'m not dying!" The teen coughed harshly once more as he reached for his glass of water and then promptly chugged it down. He coughed a few more times, but he was at least breathing normally again. Then Tommy looked up at his friends, taking a deep breath, "are you okay with moving?"

Tubbo chewed on his lip, "well, when the accident happened, Niki told us that it might be better to move-"

"We've already talked about it," Purpled interrupted. "That's why we left the decision up to you. We're fine with moving."

"But-" Tommy tried to speak.

"It would also be nice to have an elevator," Ranboo pointed out. "Especially because you can't always use your crutches and need- don't look at me like that!" Ranboo glared at the blond, "I can see you wince every time you walk with those crutches."

Tommy pouted, crossing his arms and leaning back in his seat, "okay, point taken." He then sat back up, "what about Techno?"

The others were silent for a moment, having a silent conversation that Tommy was not privy to. He huffed and stabbed his potatoes. Finally, Tubbo spoke up, "I mean, he does seem to really care and if you want him to come with, I don't see a problem."

"Yeah," Ranboo nodded, "and if he turns out to be a jerk, we can kick him out."

"Or kill him," Purpled supplied, taking a bite of his own food, earning an exasperated groan from Ranboo. "Granted, I might actually kill his current landlord first."

"So," Tommy perked up a bit, "he can come?"

"If Niki agrees," Ranboo nodded.

They finished their meal with relative ease and Tubbo beginning another spiel about server maintenance and then somehow transitioned, as always, to the use of nuclear warheads… nobody understood his fascination.

After, it was Ranboo who called Niki to ask about moving and letting Techno come. They showed absolute disdain to being peer pressured into doing so, but the woman had a soft-spot for the tall teenager. She had once told them that it was because they reminded her of her brother. Nobody dared to ask what happened to him.

After about thirty minutes of just talking, Ranboo broached the subject and that took less time, ten minutes, to get the information out and answer questions and get an agreement. Actually, the agreement was almost immediate. Niki was fine with Techno moving with them as long as they were all okay with it.

So, it was settled and Tommy was going to ask after his birthday dinner.

The regret of allowing his parents to pick up the dinner filled him immediately as they entered the apartment with three pizza boxes and a bag of takeout food from the pizza place down the road. The problem wasn't that they paid and got food for them… it was that they had asked what he wanted and he had told them curry, giving them his and his friend's orders. Maybe they couldn't get the order or something had happened to it? He wasn't sure… maybe they had simply ignored his request like always.

Out of the corner of his eye, he could see his friend's watching him as his smile turned sour for a fraction of a second before being plastered back on, much faker than before. He thanked them as sincerely as he could and invited them to sit down after they put the food down, along with the wrapped gift his mother carried. He was grateful that Niki had provided extra seats for the other Crafts.

When Techno arrived, he apologized for being late. He was only five minutes late, but apologized greatly, carrying a wrapped box that looked heavy. Tommy watched as he carefully placed the gift down and sit down next to him, messing up his hair in the process.

Dinner was awkward as hell. Small talk and answering his parents' questions that Techno had asked already. "What are you doing about school?" Niki's been on top of that. "Do you plan to go to college?" Yeah… Niki encouraged the group to continue their education after 'high school.' "What do you do for fun?" Play games, mess with each other, cook, read, all that jazz. "Do you like the city?" Yes. He loved the city. He informed them that him and Purpled used to run around, just enjoying what the city had to offer.

The cake, as always, was amazing. Niki had made it and it was simple, but everything Tommy wanted.

Then came gifts. Phil and Kristin handed their present over, smiles wide on their faces as they did. With careful movements, Tommy peeled away the childish wrapping paper to reveal a Lego Tyrannosaurus Rex. His smile, once again, faltered as his grip tightened as he held onto the box. He hated dinosaurs. Sure, he liked them when he was a kid, but then kids got mean and any hint of joy they had brought him had shriveled up and died… like the dinosaurs.

He could see their smiles, still bright, but he also saw the other's looking at him with knowing eyes. Techno had held him when he came home from school when he was ten, crying about how mean the other kids were and how dinosaurs sucked. His friends knew from their trauma dump sessions (which Niki did not condone) that dinosaurs were a touchy subject for Tommy. Niki, who cared for them when nobody else had, knew the look on Tommy's face was one he used to give her when she did something wrong or hurtful by accident but didn't want to say anything.

"Thanks," his voice wobbled a bit, but he placed the set down on the ground next to him and turned towards the next gift that was handed to him. It was large and had his friend's names scrawled on top in messy handwriting. He let out a soft chuckle as he ripped off the brown paper (it was the one they always used for gifts) and gasped at what he saw, his smile brightening into something truly genuine.

"No fucking way," he stared down at the box which held a really nice 88-key keyboard. He used to play the piano at his old school, having gotten pretty good at it before he ran. He never mentioned it, but during the last two summers they had visited the Sing for Hope piano after discovering it.

"Yes fucking way! We ordered it on like Black Friday for the deal," Tubbo chuckled as he collected the brown paper and tossed it.

Kristin spoke up, "I didn't know you could play." Her smile was now tense, "is this something new?"

The teen shook his head, still in shock at the keyboard, "I- fuck! I've- I've- I've played for years, but-" he glanced up at his friends. "Holy fuck!"

Purpled rolled his eyes, "this is the part where you say 'thank you.'"

Tommy felt like he couldn't breathe for a moment before glaring playfully at the eldest of their little group, "thank you," he said in a certain way that made the others laugh, but he meant it sincerely.

Ranboo got up and tugged the heavy box away from the youngest, setting it on the couch, "we'll set it up later, okay?"

"Okay," he numbly nodded. He was swiftly was handed another box, this time from Niki. It was wrapped in a floral wrapping paper. He was gentle as he unwrapped the gift. He didn't realize what he was holding until he let out a scream of shock. "Niki!"

A grin was plastered on her face, "I see you taking pictures all the time with that phone of yours. I figured it was time for an upgrade."

She had gifted him a camera. Not just any camera, a Fujifilm. He carefully opened the box to get a look at what was inside since there wasn't any picture of the actual camera on the box. He gasped when he saw it, gently pulling it out and holding it up. "You are the only woman ever," Tommy muttered as he stared at the camera in his hand. He gasped when he also noticed it was a digital one, his head shooting up to look at her, "you are too good for this mortal world."

Niki let out a chuckle, "I know." She then told him to put it away as there was one last gift for him.

With numb fingers, he placed the camera back in the box and closed it up, handing it off to Ranboo and then grabbing Techno's heavy gift from him.

"I didn't know if you still liked cows," the man shrugged, looking down at the highland cow and floral wrapping paper.

Tommy didn't even want to unwrap the present, his eyes melting at the picture of the cow that was plastered all over, "I love it." He put in the same effort he did with Niki's, not wanting to rip the paper and ruin the design. Inside the paper, however, was a simple black gift box. He tilted his head before flipping open the lid. He froze as he stared down at the object inside.

"I- uh- you mentioned how you've gotten into sewing and I couldn't afford a brand new one," Techno was now rambling, "so I got this off Ebay and then I brought it to a guy who specializes in cleaning and repairing sewing machines and- it might've actually been cheaper to get a new one, but I also know older models are bet-"

Tommy cut him off as he turned to his brother and yanked his arm and pulled him into a tight embrace. It was awkward since they were sitting next to each other and in different chairs, but he held his brother close. He had barely mentioned how he sewed, that he was the one the others went to when they needed something mended and how he enjoyed watching sewing videos on YouTube and copying them. It had been a simple comment after Techno had torn his shirt and the rest of the conversation had steamrolled over it. That was it… but Techno had heard him.

"Thank you," he spoke softly into Techno's braid… which made hair get into his mouth… ew.

Techno ran his hand up and down his brother's spine, right between his shoulder blades, "it was no problem, really."

Tommy pushed his brother out of the hug, punching his shoulder a moment later, "bitch!"

"Your welcome, Theseus," his brother smiled softly at him before messing with his hair again.

Phil cleared his throat, "so, Techno got you a sewing machine?"

Tommy nodded, still smiling brightly as he looked down at the vintage machine that couldn't have been from any earlier than the 60's. He wanted to test out the machine right then and there.

Techno spoke up again, "I wasn't entirely sure if you'd like it. We can pick up some fabric or something next weekend, if you want. Get you all the supplies and stuff, y'know?"

The newly minted eighteen year old paused, thinking back to what Ranboo had said the day before… his arms were hurting so bad. His smile faltered for a millisecond, glancing briefly at his wheelchair, his parents had picked it up at the drugstore before bringing him home from the hospital, that was folded up and against the wall, "you might have to push me around, my- my arms have been hurting a bit."

"That's fine," Techno beamed at just thought of spending some time with his brother, "it's no-"

"Why would you need the wheelchair?" Phil asked, his voice breaking through the shield Tommy had unknowingly put up to deal with his parents' shit. "You've been walking just fine with the crutches, haven't you?"

One glance at Purpled revealed he looked ready to pounce right over the table, cake be damned. Tubbo's jaw was clenched tight and Ranboo held onto his shoulders as if to hold him back. They were chewing on their lip and glancing between Tommy and his parents. Niki's fingers twitched towards the cake knife, her eyes narrowing. Techno turned to look at the man that raised them, he opened his mouth to speak, but Tommy got to it first.

"My arms have been hurting, can't you listen?" Tommy's smile was clearly fake to anyone who was actually paying attention.

Problem was that his parents were paying attention, "it can't hurt that bad," Kristin shrugged. "I mean, you lost a leg, your arms still work."

The teen closed his eyes and took a deep breath before opening them again, "I put all my weight on those crutches when I take a step, which means I am lifting myself up by my armpits and that fucking hurts."

"I mean, it can't be that bad-"

Tommy leaned down and grabbed his crutches off the ground, nearly hitting Tubbo as he swung them over his friend's head and across the table towards his mother, "go on then, try to lift yourself off the ground with them if it's so easy."

"Tommy," Phil shook his head, "this is ridiculous, you're fine-"

"I lost my leg!" He shouted back, finally feeling anger filling his veins. "If I'm being 'ridiculous,' I have every fucking right!"

"Don't shout-"

"Why not? Huh?" He let the crutches clatter down on the table, "you're dismissing my pain and suffering, just like always!"

"We have never-"

Tommy didn't listen to his mother, just reaching back down and harshly grabbing the Lego box, tossing it across the table at his parents, "I distinctly remember coming home in 5th grade and crying my eyes out about the other kids and telling you I hated dinosaurs. You didn't care! Techno was the one to care!"

"That's not fair-"

"No," the teen shook his head, his back straight as he stared at them. "You know what's not fair? The fact you never listen! I've told you that you needed to pay attention and you haven't. You haven't heard a single thing I've told you since you waltzed back into my life. If you had, you would've already known what I've been doing with my life since I left. You would've known about my love for this city." He took a shuddering breath, "and you would've known that I hate pizza… which is why I asked for curry."

The fight drained out of Tommy the moment he felt Techno's arm wrap around his shoulders. He glanced over and saw the man glaring at their parents. Nobody else moved, though… frozen as if moving would fracture the world.

Tommy looked down at the gift box in front of him, his shoulders falling, "get out."

"What?" His mother's voice sounded like nails on a chalkboard, confusion and disbelief coating the single word she had spoken.

With a deep breath, the teen looked back up at them, apathy in his eyes, "I'm eighteen now and I don't ever want to see you again. I don't have the fucking energy to get up and hobble away and hide in my room until your gone right now, so get the fuck out."

Phil opened his mouth next, "what about college or even insurance, how are you going to pay for that new leg?"

Niki spoke up for Tommy, "don't you fucking dare hold that over his head. If he needs help, I'm right there to help." She stood up, nearly reaching for the knife again, "I was the one to step up when you both failed him. Now," she walked over to the door and yanked it open, "get out."

Phil and Kristin grumbled, but left… leaving the Lego set behind. Techno went to stand up, assuming he was supposed to go too, but Tommy pulled him back down and glared at him. It was clear that if he left, Tommy would probably stab him in the throat.

After a few minutes, Niki having sunk back into her seat, Purpled spoke up, "well, that was a shit show." Then he turned to the pink haired man, crossing his arms and sinking into his seat, a smirk gracing his face, "so, you wanna move in with us?"

The move was pretty easy. Niki, lovely Niki… who Tommy really should look her up, he's known her for about two years… what do you mean she's one of the richest people in the city? Y'know what, Tommy can freak out later. Niki, who's apparently really, really rich, hired movers for the teens and Techno. The older man tried to do it all on his own, but with his job it became too much of a hassle and he relented.

Their new apartment was in uptown Manhattan and it was nice. Four bedrooms and two bathrooms. When Ranboo had learned of the number of rooms, they jumped on the chance to not share with Tubbo… something about how they ended up on the floor on more than one occasion and being on the verge of smothering the other with a pillow. The group immediately gave them the extra room… they didn't want Tubbo dead. Purpled and Tommy were fine with continuing to share.

Move-in day was terrifying for all parties involved. Tommy sat in his wheelchair as everything they had built up over the last two years was picked up and carried down the stairs and into the truck below by strangers. He used his remaining foot to push and pull himself back and forth as Ranboo kept him company while Purpled and Tubbo made sure everything went smoothly.

Niki was set to arrive later, making sure everything had made it to the new apartment safely first. So, the teens had some time to kill in the empty place that had become their home. The only things that remained in the apartment, besides the teens, was Tommy's crutches and his wheelchair.

They spent most of the time scrolling through TikTok and triple checking that everything was packed up and gone… they didn't want to lose anything in the move.

When Niki arrived, Purpled helped Tommy down the stairs and into the car while Ranboo kept Tubbo from getting into the wheelchair and flinging himself down after them. "But it'd be fun!" … No Tubbo, it wouldn't be fun because Tommy needed that chair until he got fitted for a personalized one.

"So," Niki smiled at the teens as she shut the driver's door, "you ready to see your new apartment?"

The drive wasn't too long, less than thirty minutes, but it felt like ages. Just like when they moved into their first place, they had no idea what to expect. It wasn't that they distrusted Niki, it was just that the four teens came from places where trust was fragile and promises were easily broken. She had promised to take care of them, but there was always that small voice in the back of their minds telling them that she was lying.

The building looked like any other on the block, complete with scaffolding. Inside, however, felt like one of those hotels he had been in when he had been forced to go to Techno's fencing tournaments. In other words, it was fancy.

Niki lead the group to the elevator and pressed the button for the eighth floor. Tubbo was now carrying Tommy's crutches while he sat in the chair. The shorter teen was using them to lift himself off the ground a bit as the elevator raced upwards.

The door to the new apartment was like any other, plain and unassuming, but when Niki put the key in and turned the handle, it revealed an apartment that was inviting and warm. It was bigger and more spacious, and while most of their space made it, there were definitely new items.

"Your couch and table are in storage if you want to swap them back," Niki told them as they looked around the space, "along with your old beds. I just-" she looked a little sheepish, "you guys just needed a treat and I was more than willing to splurge a bit."

New… beds? The teens numbly made their way to the hall of rooms, assuming the bedrooms were that way… well, there was no other way for them to be. There were three bedrooms on the left and one at the very end of the hall. On the right, next to that one were the bathrooms (Niki would later explain that smaller one was either called a half-bath or powder room).

The room situation ended up like this: Techno got the room closest to the living space. Then came Ranboo, who would later appear fully rested for the first time in probably years. Tubbo took the next room and his hair became messier than ever. Finally, Tommy and Purpled took the biggest room once more. It was nice because only he really saw the older's soft side (which he would deny every time it's brought up).

Things were going nice in their new place.

Tommy glared at his brother, "I know you took the day off, but I'm going to kill you if you say that one more time."

What was Techno saying to earn that reaction? Well, he was merely giving his brother words of encouragement as he took his first few steps on his new leg. The teen was walking again and his brother wouldn't shut the fuck up.

He had just started physical therapy since getting out of the hospital, since he couldn't leave without getting some while there, and it was going great. Amazing progress all around.

Lie. Big fat fucking lie. He felt like a failure because all he could do was take awkward steps while holding onto parallel bars and feeling like he was about to fall over. The physical therapist told him that it was normal and that it was still progress.

Fuck progress! He wanted to walk in a straight line down the street while talking with his friends, like before. But he can't do that yet and sure, he could stand and feel fine for the most part, walking hurt.

His hip felt weird, maybe because the physical therapist said he wasn't actually standing straight. Also, his stump was beginning to hurt again and he wanted to just throw the damn leg across the room at the large mirror that reflected his strained image. Actually, he wanted to smash that mirror with that metal leg!

Okay… he was being guided back to a sitting position and told that the day's session was over and that he "did amazing work." He wanted to punch the therapist in the nose. Sadly, Techno pushed him to the front desk to collect check out and collect the exercises he needed to do.

The older man leaned down and asked his brother, "do you actually need to hit something?"

Just like that, the anger and frustration evaporated. The teen was just tired. He shook his head slowly, "can we just go home?"

With a nod, pushed his brother towards the entrance and towards the bus stop.

The year flew by quickly. Moments seemed like they would never end, but at the end of it all, it was fast. The other's birthdays passed and everyone was getting older. Tommy and Purpled had sat for their GEDs and passed, paving a way for them to apply to colleges when they were all ready to do so.

Soon enough the holidays arrived once more and Tommy took measured steps into the living room just as he heard Techno swearing into the phone. It wasn't often his brother swore, so it took him a bit off guard. He leaned against the wall and watched him pace back and forth.

"Yeah," his brother sounded angry and annoyed at whoever he was talking to, "you fucked up. This is all on you and I don't want to hear from you again!" With that, he hung up. His shoulders fell as he raised a hand up and ran his fingers through his messy hair, which needed to be touched up.

"Who was that?" The question left Tommy's lips before he could stop it. The curiosity was too great to be held back.

His brother froze and turned around slowly, "you weren't supposed to hear that."

The teen smirked, "maybe don't take calls in the living room then."

Techno paused before nodding slowly, "true. Uh," he looked like he didn't want to answer and Tommy was about to tell him that he didn't have to when he spoke again, "it was mom."

Now it was the teen's turn to freeze. Then he slowly made his way to the couch and practically collapsed into it, "oh? What- uh- what did she want?"

"She wanted to know where to send our gifts. I- I told her the P.O. Box, but she wanted an actual address. I-" he took a deep breath, "she got pissed off when I told her no."

Silently, Tommy gestured for his brother to sit next to him. Once he was sitting, the teen leaned his head on the older's shoulder. It was a silent gesture, but it meant a lot to both of them.

"How'd you do it?" Techno asked, "how did you cut them off so easily?"

A small shrug, "it was pretty easy." He bit his lip for a moment before continuing, "but we weren't really talking by the time I left anyway."

"Did you ever want to reach out?" Even though Tommy was staring straight ahead, he could feel his brother looking down at him.

"A few times," he answered honestly. "I almost responded to your email once."

There was a brief moment of silence before the man chuckled lightly, "which one? I- there were probably hundreds I sent."

"It was my first New Years here and I was checking my inbox for the first time since I left. You- you asked for me to come home, wondering if I was safe, and that you missed me." The blond chewed on his lip again, "I missed you too, if you didn't know."

The man finally wrapped an arm around his little brother, jostling the blond's head for a moment, "I know."

The two stayed like that until the rest of the apartment's occupants returned back from their last minute shopping trip to get gifts. The kitchen was already stocked up for their meal and they were all looking forward to the coming days.

Birthdays were always strange to Tommy. He used to wonder why people celebrated someone getting older and closer to death. When he was little, he was a happy kid who enjoyed his birthdays. Then he got older and kids didn't come to his parties and he wasn't invited to theirs. Every year older became worse and worse… until his sixteenth and it was completely forgotten about.

Then he met people who cared. He stopped seeing birthdays as celebrating someone getting closer to death, but another year filled with those who loved you with the same vigor you had for them. His seventeenth was filled with a joy he had never experienced before. His eighteenth showed him who truly mattered in his life.

Nineteen. Tommy Innit, since he legally changed his name from Theseus Craft, turned nineteen on April 9th and it was the happiest he had ever felt in his entire life. His new family spent the day with him as they played games and and watched videos. They chatted about the future and trauma dumped a bit (which Niki still disliked).

Eventually dinner was had and it was curry. It was curry, a make up from the year prior. When cake came out, it was delicious as always. The night was amazing. The day, although cool outside, filled Tommy's heart with warmth.

As he laid in bed that night, his prosthetic on the ground beside it and Purpeld already asleep, all Tommy could think about was how this all came to be. He wondered where he would've been if his family had remembered his sixteenth. Would they have forgotten his seventeenth? Would he have ran at all? Would he still be stuck in that town with shitty people surrounding him? Would he have ever met his new family? He doubted it…

All in all, Tommy was glad that his sixteenth birthday had been forgotten because if it hadn't, everything would've been different. Would he go back and change anything? No. Not a goddamn thing.

He hummed softly to himself as he closed his eyes, smiling softly from the love he felt for his new family. Goodnight, he told himself.