Previous part of Blue.

***

They stopped infront of a huge cemetery, Greg parking the car.

“C’mon, it’s not that far of a walk.” Greg said, pointing to where his family was.

“Good.” Sara said, as Greg sighed.

“Yep.”

“You wish I was Nick?”

“Yeah…it’s nothing against you Sara…I just…I miss him.” Greg said, “I didn’t mean to be an ass to him…it just happened.”

Greg was about to cry already.

“Oh Greg, it’s going to be fine. We’ll just avoid him when we get back.” Sara said, as they finally approached the funeral.

“Ah Gregory, it’s nice to see you.” A woman with dark brown hair said.

“Hello Mother.” Greg said, smiling at the women forcefully.

“Who is this?” Greg’s mom asked.

“This is Sara Sidle. Sara this is my mo--”

“I’m Trisha Sanders.” She said, “So are you Greg’s girlfriend?”

“No, I’m his faghag.” Sara said, making the woman choke.

“You’re his what?”

“Basically I’m his girl friend who listens to him rant about what guy he likes. It’s quite a fun role to play.” Sara said, smiling at the woman.

Trisha gave her a disgusted look.

“I was hoping Gregory was past that stage.” Trisha said, making Greg snort.

“It’s not a stage, it’s his way of life. Which by the way is a really hot way of life. I mean, I get all the dirty little details on who he’s slept with. Dream come true for me.” Sara told her, as Greg’s mouth dropped.

“Well…I never.” Trisha walked away, as an older man came over.

“What’s up G-man?” The guy asked, as Sara snorted.

“G-man?” Sara asked, as Greg glared at her.

“Hey Wesley.” Greg said, “Wes, this is my friend Sara. Sara this is my brother Wesley.”

“Oh, so you’re Wesley.” Sara said, “Greg talks about you a lot.”

“Ditto. You, David, Trey, Jeffrey, and his boyfriend Nick.” Wesley said, “How’s Nick anyways?”

Greg looked down, before Sara stepped up.

“They broke up…more so Nick broke up with Greg because he pushed the issue of Nick coming out to his parents…and co-workers.” Sara said.

“That sucks. Let me meet him. I’ll kick his ass.” Wesley said, “No one fucks with my baby brother and gets away with it.”

“Wes..it’s fine..I mean…I’ll get over it.” Greg said, as Wesley frowned.

“If you were over it, you wouldn’t have let Sara talk about it.” Wes said, “I know you Greg. This is affecting you more than you’re letting on.”

He excused himself and Greg, walking over to a tree.

“Greg, are you okay?”

“I’m just upset a little.” Greg said, “I was such a bastard to Nick before I left.”

Wesley pulled his brother into a hug.

“It’s going to be fine, Greg.” Wesley said, “So what’s been going on?”

“The Laughing Corpse has a concert coming up, and I’m not even ready for it. Papa Olaf just died, my friends are pissed at me because they think I’m pissed at Nick because they think he might’ve stolen my girl or something, I’ve done so much fucking overtime that I haven’t been able to sleep okay in a few weeks. I’m juggling two jobs, and then to top it all off my boyfriend of three years dumps me.” Greg said, as Wesley frowned.

“Greg, do you remember what Papa Olaf told us as kids?”

“He said a lot of things.”

“He told us that no matter what the situation, we can drop everything and leave the body.” Wesley said.

Greg started laughing.

“I didn’t get that as a kid, and I don’t get that now. I get all the other things he told us, but never that.”

“It’s simple really, how about this then. Your friends aren’t real friends if they’re treating you like shit and Nick like he’s a god. Stop working overtime, and your band mates will understand if you pull out. You need to sleep more, or you’re going straight to burn out little brother.” Wesley said, “And if Nick won’t come out to his parents, then he’s not worthy of you.”

Greg started crying.

“But he is…Wes…I…shit…I feel like part of my heart is gone…like there’s this black hole there now…” Greg said.

Wesley hugged Greg tighter.

“That’s heartbreak.” Wesley said, “You’d give him the world if you could, but you have to understand him. He’s afraid of what everyone will think, he’s afraid of being alone. He’s scared shitless Greg.”

Greg looked at him.

“I know that…I just…I really miss him Wesley.”

“You fell hard didn’t you?” Wesley asked.

“I-I actually thought he’d be the one…that’d he’d shower me with love everyday…well…up until about a month ago that’s how it was…ever since his mom called everything went downhill.” Greg said, “Wes..what am I going to do?”

“How about you try to understand his view of all of this, and you treat him like you would normally. Before you two got together.” Wesley said, “Do you know if he still loves you?”

“No…I don’t.” Greg said, as Wesley frowned.

“It’s about to start guys.” Sara called to them.

The brothers let go of each other and walked back over.

“Jenny this is..”

“Sara Sidle, I know. We’ve already introduced eachother.” Jenny said, “Hello Greg.”

Jennifer and Greg both hugged each other.

“Hey. How’s Benjamin and Riley?” Greg asked, as Wesley laughed.

“He’s doing fine.” Wesley said, pointing to where his son was playing.

“Ben dear, come over here.” Jennifer called to the boy.

Benjamin ran into his mother’s arms.

“Hey Untle Greg.” Benjamin tried.

“Hi Uncle Greg.” Riley said, as she laughed.

“Hey guys. How are you both?” Greg asked, holding up Riley.

“We’re okay.” Riley said, as she looked at Sara, “Who’s she?”

“Ben, Riley, this is Sara Sidle. She’s my best friend.” Greg said, as Sara smiled.

“Hello.”

“She’s pretty.” Riley said, smiling at Greg, “How come you don’t come over anymore?”

“I’ve been busy Riley. I’ll come over for Christmas this year, I promise.” Greg said.

“You’d better. If I have to hear Mom going off about Roger, I’ll shoot her in the head.” Wesley said.

“Oh…there’s the minister.” Sara said, as Greg handed Riley over to Wesley.

They all sat down next to each other, listening to the minister speaking. Trisha gave the eulogy, since it was her father that died. Greg nearly jumped when Sara intwined their fingers.

“You’re crying again.” Sara said, “Eyeliner is going everywhere.”

Greg tried to fix it, but Sara stopped him.

“Your plan didn’t work. Your Mom still talked to us.”

Greg nodded, as Sara fixed the makeup. They all stood, as Wesley and Greg walked towards the grave. They watched their Mom throw a rose on the coffin, Greg watched as a few petals broke off. Greg and Wesley threw theirs lightly onto it, so it wouldn’t break. They let the rest of the family throw their roses on it, before sitting back down.

By the time it was over, half the family was in tears.

“So do you and Sara need a place to stay?” Wesley asked.

“Yeah…we could probably drive back though. It’s only three hours away..and it’s only two o’clock.” Greg said.

“We wouldn’t mind you guys staying.” Jennifer said, “I think the kids would love it Greg.”

Sara smiled at Greg.

“We can stay.” Sara said, “Besides that, I would love to tell everyone at work about how Greg’s an Uncle. We all knew he was getting old.”

“Hag.” Greg said, as Sara laughed.

“Nope.” Sara said, smiling at him.

They followed Wesley and Jennifer’s car to the house they owned.

“We have enough room for you both to sleep in separate rooms.” Wesley said, as they walked in.

“We have to get started early tomorrow, because Sara has to work tomorrow.” Greg said, as Wesley nodded.

“Okay.” He said, as Jennifer went into the kitchen.

“Let’s catch up.” Wesley said, as he pulled them into the living room.

***

Greg and Sara both took a seat on the couch.

“So Greg, what else has been going on?” Wesley asked, making Greg laugh.

“What do you mean?”

“You came to Papa Olaf’s funeral dressed up as the lead singer from Panic! At the Disco.”

“Why does everyone keep saying that!? He coat was red, shirt black. Mine’s the opposite, hot shit man.” Greg said, “And nothing, you know how much it bother’s Mom when I dress up like a goth. Besides, Papa Olaf sad not to wear just black to his funeral, or he’d take offense to it.”

Wesley pointed to his white shirt.

“I think there were only three people that actually did that for him. Everyone else was just wearing all black.”

“Well it’s traditional to wear just black to a funeral.” Sara said, “They probably thought we were all freaks for wearing color.”

Greg and Wesley both smiled at eachother.

“That wouldn’t be a change for us. We’ve always been seen as freaks in our families eyes.” Wesley said.

“My Mom once told us that we were unplanned mistakes, and it was a damn good thing she didn’t believe in abortion.” Greg said, making Wesley snicker.

“That’s why we moved in with Papa Olaf.” Wesley continued, “He loved us more than she did anyways.”

“By more, you mean he actually took care of us, and didn’t make us rely on ourselves to make it through the day.” Greg said, “That’s why I don’t talk about my family. It’s a slightly fucked up bunch.”

“What are you talking about slightly?” Wesley said, “It’s just a fucked up bunch. There’s no slightly in there.”

Sara laughed at the two.

“Yeah I figured you never talked about anyone besides Wesley, and Papa Olaf because of something like that. Oh and wait until I tell everyone you’re an uncle.”

“You’re really looking forward to that aren’t you?” Greg deadpanned.

“Oh yes. You say we’re getting old.” Sara said, “Says the Uncle. I tell you.”

“Untle Greg?” Benjamin asked, coming in.

“Hey Ben.” Greg said, getting to the child’s level.

“Will you come pway with me and Wiley?” Ben asked, making Sara aww.

“Can I bring my nice lady friend? And can we change?” Greg asked, as Ben nodded.

Ben walked out, making Greg stand back up.

“Excuse us Wes.” Greg said, helping Sara up. They picked up their duffel bag, going up the stairs. Both changed fairly quickly, knowing kids hated to wait.

“I usually hate kids, but your niece and nephew seem nice.” Sara said, making Greg laugh.

“I’ll take that as a compliment. I haven’t been able to spend time with them in a while.” Greg said, frowning.

“They live three hours away.”

“I could visit on weekends, I’ve just been so busy.” Greg said, as they walked down the stairs.

“Uncle Greg!” Riley screamed, throwing herself on top of the other man.

Greg fell to the ground, making Riley laugh.

“How old are you now?” Greg asked.

“Sixteen years old.” Riley said, smirking.

“Then you are to big to play this game with me.” Greg said, pushing the girl off of him.

“Well I wanted you to meet my friend.” Riley said, as Greg tilted his head.

“That’s fine…I thought Ben said we were all going to play together.”

Riley stuck out her tongue.

“I hate playing with Ben, he’s to young.”

“He’s five. He’s still a child, I remember a certain girl when she was that age.” Greg said, making Riley laugh.

“Yeah, and I also didn’t want to play Hide and Seek.”

“No you just wanted to play dolls.” Greg said, as a knock came to the door.

“Oh that’s her.” Riley said, opening the door.

“Ah, I remember when I was a teenager. I wasn’t that much of a smartass though.” Sara said.

“I find that hard to believe.”

“Uncle Greg, this is Rikki. Rikki, this is my Uncle Greg.” Riley said, introducing a girl with short black hair.

“Wow, Riley he’s a whole lot hotter in person. Much better than any picture you have! Wait until the girl’s at school hear this. They’ll die because they weren’t here!” Rikki squealed, making Greg blush.

“Oh my god! You have fangirls!” Sara said, holding her stomach, “Another thing to tell the lab.”

“Shut up.” Greg said, still red in the face.

Sara was holding onto the stair rail, laughing hard.

“It’s nice to meet you.” Rikki said, holding out a hand.

Greg shook it quickly.

“Well we’re going to go play with Ben.” Greg said, pulling Sara after him.

Wesley looked at his brother’s red face, and Sara laughing, tilting his head.

“Did you meet Rikki?” Wesley asked.

“Yes. Why didn’t you tell me Riley told her friends about me?”

“She didn’t just tell her friends, she showed pictures of you and everything.” Sara said, laughing.

“Shut up Sara!”

“You have little teenage fan girls. This is SO great.” Sara said, as she controlled her laughter.

“Yeah it’s so funny to you.” Greg said, as Sara’s phone started to ring.

“Sidle. Oh Hey Catherine.” Sara said, making Greg twitch.

“Oh Cath, did you know Greg’s an Uncle?” Sara asked, putting Catherine on speakerphone.

“No way! Our little Greg, an uncle?”

“Yeah a little boy named Ben, he’s five. Then a niece Riley, who’s sixteen. Oh and get this, Riley has been showing her friends pictures of Greg. He has little fan girls now.” Sara said, as Greg lunged at her.

“DIE!” Greg yelled, as Wesley grabbed him around the waist.

“Sara? Are you okay? And you have to be joking right.” Catherine said, “That’s so funny.”

“Now you’re job is to tell everyone you can. Oh and also tell them that Greg’s Mom is a BITCH.”

“One out of ten?” Catherine asked.

“Fifty.”

“Ouch. That is bitchy.” Catherine said, “Well I was just calling to see if you guys were okay.”

“Yes Mom we’re alright.” Both chorused, making Wesley drop Greg.

“That’s damn straight.” Catherine said, “I’ve got to go. The case. I’ll see you guys when you get back.”

“Bye Cath.” Sara said, hanging the phone up.

Greg glared at her.

“I didn’t actually think you were going to tell them.”

“I’m going to tell them that Ben calls you Untle Greg.” Sara teased, making Greg’s glare harden.

“You’re getting to much joy out of this.”

“After all the times you made fun of me? This is payback at it’s finest.” Sara said, as Rikki and Riley walked in.

“Hey Greg.” Rikki said, giggling.

“Bloody Hell, c’mon.” Greg said, pulling Sara outside.

“Now you’re British?”

“No, I just have been watching to much British stuff..it rubs off.” Greg said, “I can’t believe Riley.”

“She’s just showing who her Uncle is. There’s nothing wrong with that.”

“Yeah telling, and showing pictures of me. Someone needs to go tell those girls, that I’m a homosexual.”

“Bisexual.” Sara corrected.

“Let’s not get their hopes up.”

“Homoseuxal it is.” Sara said, as both saw Ben run up to them.

“Untle Greg, will you push the swing for me?”

Greg smiled and nodded.

“I needed this..to get away from Vegas for a day.”

“Or to get away from Nick.”

“How about both.”

“Both it is.” Sara said, as they approached the swings.

Sara sat in one, while Greg pushed Ben in the other.

A few hours later, they were called in for dinner. Ben ran to the house, letting the two adults trail behind him.

“You’re a good Uncle, Greg.” Sara said, smiling.

“Thanks. Although…would it not be Uncle-y to kill that girl?” Greg asked, seeing Rikki waiting for him.

“Yeah no. Watch this though. Play along.” Sara said, putting an arm around Greg’s neck.

Greg gave her a confused look.

“Oh my god Greg! I can’t believe he let you be top last night.” Sara said, snickering.

Greg’s eyes widened.

“I mean, I thought he was all in control and stuff.” Sara said, making Greg laugh.

“I know, it was a shock to me too.” Greg said, seeing Rikki’s face redden.

“Wait…you’re gay?” Rikki asked, as Greg nodded.

“Problem with that?” Greg asked, as the girl gave out a high pitched squeal.

“No! That just makes it better!” Rikki said, leaving them alone.

Greg’s mouth dropped.

“I thought you said you were trying to help the situation!” Greg said, as he saw Sara’s mouth opened.

“I thought I was! Well damn….that plan backfired.” Sara said, “I think the love of your fan club just went up.”

Greg glared at her.

“No thanks to you.” Greg said, going inside.

“Sorry.” Sara said, following him.

Greg and Sara were both thinking they should leave, they still had time to get back to Vegas.

***

“Uncle Greg, can you pass the salt?” Riley asked, as it has passed to her.

Greg was laughing with Sara.

“Oh no, do you remember when you and David thought it’d be funny to pull a prank on Ecklie?” Sara asked, making Wesley look at them.

“Isn’t he the head honcho at your work?”

“Yeah. That never stops Greg and David from pulling pranks though.” Sara said, making Greg smirk.

“He was asking for it. He tried to get me to do a triple shift. Do you know what that would’ve done to me. I was already sleepy, I would’ve gotten into my apartment and passed out on the floor.”

“Well, David had this brilliant idea. He said that since Ecklie was being a jerk, they’d do a little payback.”

“We asked Sara to join in on the fun, but she refused.” Greg said.

“As I should. Greg was notorious for blaring music in the lab. Manson, Nine Inch Nails.”

“Starsailor, you can’t forget Starsailor.” Greg said, making Sara laugh.

“Well David said he’d distract Ecklie by blaring music.” Sara said, “Everyone knows David doesn’t like loud music. So Ecklie would know something was up.”

“So he left his office, leaving the door unlocked. That poor man.” Greg said sarcastically.

“Greg snuck into Ecklie’s office, and rigged a few things in there.”

“When he got back in to his office. That’s when the real fun started.”

“When the door opened some honey fell on him, not a lot but some. He went to the bathroom, and cleaned it off.”

“That wasn’t so fun.” Greg said, “he was supposed to slip in it.”

“He went back into his office and sat in his chair.”

“Greg, you didn’t!” Wes said, making Greg smirk.

“Oh I did. It’s the oldest trick in the book.” Greg said, “I put a little bit of super glue in the seat.”

“A little! You put half the thing on there!” Sara exclaimed, “Well, Ecklie didn’t realize that. Then he went to his drawer, it wouldn’t open.”

“Ah the fun I have with glue.”

“Ecklie realized something was up. He tugged at it, and then tried to stand up.”

“He fell. Oh did he fall.”

“The only way to get out of the seat was to take off his pants.” Sara said, smirking.

“Oh the fun I have with little hidden camera’s that take pictures.” Greg said, “I had my camera phone out, ready to take a picture.”

“Which he did, and sent it to everyone in the lab.”

“Couldn’t he have traced it?” Jenny asked, “Or gotten fingerprints from something?”

“That’s the joy of a private number, and of wearing gloves.” Greg said, smirking.

“Greg only let’s certain people have his number.” Sara said, “Doesn’t mean Ecklie didn’t try his hardest to find the culprit.”

“He still hasn’t, probably never will.” Greg said, making Rikki laugh loudly.

“That’s awesome.”

“Thanks.” Greg said, “Although my partner in crime should have some of the credit as well.”

The rest of the meal was uneventful, until Rikki had to leave. She gave Greg a big hug, before squealing again. Greg winced visibly, before feeling something on his leg.

“Untle Greg, will you read me a story? I has to go to bed.” Ben asked.

“Well certainly.” Greg said, picking Ben up.

Ben clapped his hands together, looking extremely happy. Sara smirked.

“Oh the stories I can threaten to use on you.”

“I don’t care.” Greg said, sticking his tongue out.

“Night pwetty lady.” Ben said, making Greg laugh.

“Pretty lady’s name is Sara.” Greg said, as Ben giggled.

“Can I call hers Aunt Sara?” Ben asked, making Sara blush.

“Only if you want to.” Greg said, smirking at Sara, “Why don’t you go upstairs and get ready. I’ll be there in a few.”

He set Ben down, watching him go up the stairs.

“I’m not even related to you, and he’s going to call me Aunt? I feel old now.” Sara said, making Wes laugh.

“Be lucky he doesn’t call you what he calls my mother.” Wesley said.

“What’s that?” Greg asked.

“Nothing.” Wes said, “He cries every single time she comes near him. He really doesn’t like her. Riley on the other hand…”

Wes looked at Riley, before sighing.

“For a while she agreed with Mom about homosexuals.” Wesley said, “She still fakes it around her. I told her my view on it, and since she’s a daddy’s girl, she changed her mind.”

“Why does she fake it?”

“Because she wants to get into Trisha’s will.” Jenny said, “Since Wesley and you aren’t going to be.”

“Why aren’t you going to be in Wes? I can understand me, but you.” Greg said, “She’s always loved you.”

“I told her if she couldn’t accept you for who you were, then she had no son at all.” Wesley said, “No one fucks with my baby brother and gets away with it. Even if it is our mom.”

Greg smiled at him, feeling that burning feeling in his nose and behind his eyes.

“Thanks Wes.” Greg said, hugging him.

“Untle Greg! I want my story NOW!” They heard Ben yell.

“What a baby. Having to have a story read to him. Honestly.” Riley scoffed, walking past them.

“I remember a certain girl who used to make me read The Little Engine to her fifty times in a row before she could fall asleep.” Greg said, making Riley blush.

“Well I grew out of it.” She said, going up the stairs.

“She’s becoming unbearable to live with.” Jenny said, “She’s in that rebellious stage. She came in the other day with her navel pierced.”

“Next thing you know she’ll have a tattoo.” Wesley said, “She’ll grow out of it though.”

“How’d she get it pierced? Doesn’t she have to have a parent’s signature?” Sara asked.

“She forged my signature.” Jenny said, “She forges it on everything. Excuses, Field Trip forms, now this.”

Greg shook his head.

“That’s horrible. I mean, Wes and I were desperate to get out of classes, and everything but we never forged things.”

Wesley sighed.

“I think she’s just trying to show out.”

Greg shrugged, before hearing Ben yell again.

“I better go read him a story.” Greg said, going up the stairs.

***

Greg felt like an idiot, which was saying something. He let Ben pick out the book, not knowing it would be a nursery rhyme he’d read too many times, and really wanted to burn it. Why couldn’t Ben have picked an actual book? Greg took a deep sigh, he was almost done anyways.

‘The three little kittens,
They washed their mittens,
And hung them out to dry;
Oh mother dear,
Look here, look here,
Our mittens we have washed.
What! Washed your mittens,
You're such good kittens.
I smell a rat close by!
Hush! Hush! Hush! Hush!
Hush! Hush! Hush!
I smell a rat close by.’ Greg finished softly, hearing a slight snore coming from Ben.

He set the book down, pulling the covers up, kissing Ben’s forehead lightly. When he walked out, he saw Sara smirking.

“Another thing to tell the lab.” Sara said, “They just keep on coming. It’s like my own little blackmail river.”

Greg just smirked at her.

“Tell them, I don’t care.” Greg said, “It’ll just show that I don’t mind reading my nephew a stupid nursery rhyme.”

Sara pouted.

“Where’s the fun in that?”

“If I don’t care, then you can’t use it against me.” Greg retorted, going down the stairs.

Sara followed him, muttering under her breath. They walked into the kitchen, greeting Wes and Jenny.

“So what’d he make you read?” Jenny asked.

“Three Little Kittens.” Greg said, making Wesley start laughing.

“That sucks for you G-man.” Wesley said, as Riley walked in.

“Shouldn’t she be in bed?” Greg asked.

“She’s sixteen, and is about to be in the eleventh grade. Do you remember how late we stayed up?” Wesley asked, making Greg laugh.

“I stayed out all night, while you stayed in. How much was the phone bill?”

“Who’d he talk to?” Riley asked.

“Your Mom.” Greg said, “If it wasn’t her, then it was probably your Uncle Ron.”

“Wait. You have another brother?” Sara asked, “Why didn’t you introduce me?”

“We have stepbrother and stepsister. They wouldn’t be at the funeral.” Greg said, “They didn’t appreciate Papa Olaf for his humor. Thought he was crazy.”

Wes and Greg both shared an offended look.

“Sorry to burst your bubbles, but he was slightly insane.” Riley said, “What was he speaking in half the time anyways? Gibberish?”

“Norwegian.” Both men corrected her.

She rolled her eyes.

“Don’t roll your eyes Riley.” Wes said, “You may not have understood what he was saying, but he was still your great-grandfather. So respect him, if only a little bit.”

“Whatever Dad.” Riley said, going to the living room.

“Is she PMSing?” Sara asked, “That was disrespectful as hell.”

“We think she is. She doesn’t exactly tell us.” Jenny said, “She didn’t exactly like Papa Olaf.”

“He sounded like an awesome man.” Sara said, confused.

“He was!” Both men replied again.

“Olaf was a very great man. She just didn’t like him, because he’d talk to us in Norwegian when he didn’t want her to hear the conversation.” Jenny said, “It pissed her off, because my grandfather doesn’t do that. He’s way to blunt for that.”

“Sometimes I wonder why you haven’t grounded her.” Greg said.

“If we grounded her, she’d just find a way to get out.” Wesley said, “The next time I have to pick her up from the cops, I am going to punish her.”

“Let me guess, Mom’s been giving you shit.” Greg said, making Wesley laugh.

He nodded his head to the door. Greg stood up and walked with Wes to the backyard.

“Shit is putting it lightly. She’s pissed at you for being a CSI, so I’m hearing about that.”

“Wait..whoa. Hold the phone.” Greg said, making Wesley laugh.

“Haven’t heard that in a while.” Wesley said.

“Why are you getting shit about me?” Greg asked, “Next time that happens, you tell her to fucking call me.”

“Greg, it’s okay.”

“No it’s fucking not. How long has she been yelling at you about me?”

“…since you left for Vegas.”

“Shit Wes, you know you aren’t that much older than me. I can take care of the bitch.” Greg said, making Wes laugh.

“That may be true Greg…” Wes trailed off, when he heard the door bell.

“What time is it?” Greg asked.

“It’s only six thirty.” Wesley said, as he saw Sara come towards them.

“Hey your overly sugared up mother is here.” Sara said, making both men snort.

“Speak of the devil.” Wesley said, making Greg sigh.

“Wonder what she wants.” Greg said, as they saw Jenny walking with Trisha.

Both saw Jenny put her horizontal hand under her chin. Both groaned audibly, making Sara glance at them.

“Jenny…um..Ms. Sidle, right?” Trisha said, as Sara nodded.

“Yes.” Both women replied.

“I’d like to speak with my sons. Could you leave us.” Trisha asked, brushing them off.

“And if we don’t.” Sara asked, as Jenny laughed.

“Of course Trisha. C’mon Sara, it’s best not to argue.” Jenny said, adding in a whisper, “We’ll hear about it after she leaves.”

Wesley and Greg both threw their mom a fake smile.

“What do you need Mom?” Wesley asked, as Trisha sighed.

“It’s nice to see you don’t always dress so dramatically Gregory.” She said, making Greg flinch.

“What brings you here?” Wesley asked, before Greg could say anything.

“I wanted to talk to both of you. Is that such a crime?”

“It should be.” Greg muttered, smiling at her.

“So let’s sit down.” Trisha said, sitting in one of the patio chairs.

Greg was mentally grinding his teeth, but took a seat on the table.

“Gregory, sit in a chair.” Trisha said, as Greg shrugged.

“I’m comfy.” Greg said, as Wes sat down next to him.

“Why must you always start a fight Gregory?”

“Why must you always use my full name?”

“I didn’t come over here to fight. Wesley, have you spoken to Greg….?”

“He told me you were bitching to him about it.” Greg said, as she glared.

“Wesley, leave us alone for a few minutes.” Trisha said, as Wes threw a look to Greg.

Wesley went inside, seeing Sara and Jenny at the window. They were listening, as was Riley.

“This should get really good, really fast.” Riley said.

“Greg doesn’t smart off to people.” Sara said, “How would it get really good?”

“You obviously haven’t seen him around his Mom.” Jenny said, as Wesley came over to listen also.

****
Greg and Trisha were having a staring contest. Whoever looked away first would have to let the other talk first. Greg looked away finally, seeing the smirk on Trisha’s face.

“Now Gregory…”

“Greg. Not Gregory, not Hojem. Greg. Get it right, I hate my full name.” Greg snapped, mentally smirking.

“Fine. Greg, you’ve become such a disappointment to the family.” Trisha said, making Greg laugh.

“How so?”

“Well...look at your brother. He’s a lawyer, that’s respectable. Look at Ronald, he’s a doctor. Another respectable one. Then there’s Meredith, and she’s in the military.” Trisha started, “Then there’s you…a lab tech turned CSI. Not a very good career.”

“I like my career, thank you very much.” Greg snarled, “It’s something I enjoy.”

“Well I don’t like it.”

“I don’t care if you like it or not!” Greg yelled, “You don’t think it’s a bad career, you hate it because I chose my career for myself. It didn’t fit the family image, and that’s why you’re pissed. Sorry to inform you, but Wes and me have our own brains.”

“It is not because you chose it yourself. Don’t be ridiculous.” Trisha said.

“Then why do you hate it so much? I know it’s not because it’s almost killed me. If it was that, you would’ve been to see me at the hospital. So no, couldn’t be that. Roger doesn’t mind that I’m a CSI, then only problem he has with me is that I’m a bisexual. So it doesn’t fuck with his family image.” Greg said, taking a deep breath.

He was on his feet, as was Trisha. Out of the corner of his eye he could see the others watching from the window.

“I’d beg to differ. We are very respected in California Gregory, and you know it.” Trisha said, “So maybe it would be in your best interest to find another career.”

“I don’t care. Let’s get that straight. I don’t fucking care if the Sanders are the most respected family in the state. I don’t care that you have a family image in your head. I don’t care that you are my mom. The only two people in this family that I actually care about are Wes and Papa Olaf. The rest of you can go get fucked.”

“Don’t talk to me like that!”

“Then next time you want to bitch about my fucking career choice, come to me. Not Wes, not Ron, not Merry. Me.” Greg said, “I deserve that much at least. It’s not their fault that I’m the family fuck up. It’s mine. And what a good fuck up I am. Let’s name the things you hate about me.”

Trisha glared at him heatedly.

“You hate my job. We all know that. You hate my sexual orientation. We all knew that one too. You also hate the fact that I’m my own person, and don’t cater to your needs.” Greg said that part with a smile on his face, “You hate the fact I didn’t give a rat’s ass when you got remarried. You also hate the fact that instead of going to your wedding, I went out with my friends to a club.”

They were starting a sort of circle. Sara sort of wanted to interfere, but Wes held her back.

“You hate that I skipped school half the year and STILL graduated High School early. You hated the fact that I surfed, I collected coins, and that I was having a BLAST as a teenager. What were you doing when you were in high school?” Greg asked, “You never went to class, never studied, and flunked out. You hate me because no matter how hard I didn’t try, I still managed to up you by one.”

A loud smack filled the backyard, making Wes go towards the door. Jenny and Sara held him back. They all heard a laugh.

“Well that’s a new one. Smacking me because I’m right. Aren’t I right, mother?” Greg asked, “Huh?”

“Fine you want the truth. Yes, I hate you. You forgot one reason though.” Trisha said, smirking.

Greg gave her a confused look. He thought he’d gotten all the facts.

“You were a mistake. We never meant to have you.”

Greg glared at her, as did Wesley through the window.

“So the truth comes out. I’m the mistake that’s better than you. Well guess what? This mistake is going back to Vegas, and is going to work his ass off to get promoted. Just so I can see my Mother’s face when I tell her.” Greg said, as Trisha sat back down.

“Wesley, you can come back now.” Trisha said, making Greg sit right back down.

Wesley came out, giving Trisha a deadly look.

“Your Papa Olaf’s Will has been looked at.” She said, flinching a bit.

“And?” Wesley asked.

“He’s left everything to Greg and you.” Trisha said, getting up, “You’ll have to sign everything when it comes out of probate.”

With that she left, both men thankful for it.

“Hey G-man, you alright?” Wes asked, as Greg looked at him.

“Fine, I’m great. NO I’M NOT ALRIGHT! I just had my mom, who’s supposed to love me say I was a mistake. And all the reasons I thought she hated me, are true. So do I look fine, Wes?” Greg asked, feeling that burning sensation.

Wesley hugged him, as he felt Greg start to sob.

“She may think you’re a mistake, but I know you aren’t.” Wesley said, seeing the girls come out. He saw Riley look at Greg, then him.

“Greg, you know mom’s a bitch. You do have a family. You have me, Jenny, Ben, Riley. You also have your friends in Vegas, they’re your family too.” Wesley said, letting Sara take him.

“He’s right Greggo. You have a big family.” Sara said, making a note to tell Catherine about all of this, “Think of it this way. Catherine, is the mom, Griss, is our dad. Then you got Warrick, who’s the horny brother. Nick, who’s the over achiever, and who tries to play hero. I’m your overprotective big sister. David is the overprotective big brother. Then there’s Wes, who we already know loves you to pieces. Then Riley and Ben, who love you to death. Then Jenny who’s the mother hen…I’m guessing.”

Greg snorted, wiping any trace of tears away.

“I really can’t stand her.” Greg said, “Remind me to send her a bucket of maggots for Christmas.”

Everyone laughed, before walking back inside.

***

The next day came quickly for Greg and Sara. Both waking up at 6 in the morning. Riley came into Greg’s room, saying breakfast was almost ready, then repeating the news to Sara.

Greg took a quick shower, and put on some clothes. He stretched like a cat, and then walked out of the room. He smiled at Sara, who came out at the same time.

“Good timing.” Sara commented.

“We’re just that good.”

Both laughed as they walked downstairs. They were talking fairly loudly as they walked into the kitchen.

“Morning.” Wes and Jenny said.

“Good Morning.” The other two said simultaneously.

“How’d you sleep?”

“Fine.”

“Like a rock.” Sara replied, “This smells really good.”

“It’s pancakes, waffles, eggs, and sausage.”

“What no bacon?” Greg said, as both laughed.

“Over there.” Wes said, pointing to the table.

“Why so much food?” Greg asked.

“It’s not everyday my baby brother comes over.” Wes said, pinching Greg’s cheeks.

“Alright already.” Greg said, smacking Wes’ hands away.

Wes just chuckled at him. Greg heard Sara laughing also, and glared at her.

“Sorry you just so cute.” Sara said, catching her breath.

“Yeah well you’re ugly.” Greg said, receiving a glare from Sara.

“Thanks.” Sara said dryly.

Breakfast was loud, but that was only because Greg and Wes were sharing jokes.

“So what time do you guys need to leave?” Wes asked.

“Probably around eleven. Sara has to go to work at two.” Greg said, “That’ll give us an hour to wash up and all that good stuff.”

“Translation: He wants to fix his hair with his hair gel. Wait you aren’t going to work. You have until Monday off.” Sara put in, as Greg smacked her arm lightly.

“Well I’m going out. Changing the subject, who all are coming to Christmas this year?” Greg asked.

“Mom, Roger, Dad, Cousin Stacy, Jason, Matthew. Basically the whole family, except for you. Because you won’t answer the question on if you’re coming or not.” Wes said.

“Jason’s coming? I thought he was supposed to get married around Christmas.”

“Yeah, it’s going to happen a few days after. Maybe on New Year’s, not sure.” Wes said, “I think Matthew and Stacy would love to see you again though. You guys haven’t talked to each other in two years.”

“It would be good to see them…I’ll think about it.” Greg said, standing up, “I just really don’t want to be around Mom after last night.”

An awkward silence fell over the table, only breaking when Ben started giggling. He got out of his chair, and yanked on Greg’s pants.

“Untle Greg, before you weave will you swing me attain.” Ben said, making Sara tilt her head.

“Yeah I’ll swing you again before I leave Ben.” Greg said, picking Ben up.

Ben smiled at Greg widely, hugging him tightly. Greg hugged him back, as he felt another pair of arms on him. He smiled at Riley and hugged her too.

“You two need to be good for your parents when I’m gone…well Ben you be good. Riley you need to raise some you know what before I visit again.” Greg said, making both laugh.

A weird sound caught their attention, making Greg turn to Sara.

“I just wanted a picture, you three are so cute.” Sara said, smiling, “In fact, can I get a picture of all of you?”

Wes and Jenny shrugged before going over to them. Wes picked up Riley, holding her against the side of his body.

“Dad I’m sixteen, stop treating me like I’m six.”

“Oh hush.” Jenny said, going on the other side of them. Greg stood next to Wes and Riley, holding Ben on his side.

“Say cheese.” Sara said, as they all smiled. She pushed the button, and got the picture.

“Why’d you want the pictures?” Wes asked.

“I want the team to see what you all look like.” Sara explained, “Besides that Cath will want to see who Greg’s niece and nephew are.”

Wes nodded, as Greg walked Ben and himself out to the swings. Riley followed, asking to be swung too.

“He’s really good with the kids.” Wes said, “I think that’s why I named him Godfather, and Christina; Jenny’s sister, Godmother. That pissed off our parents, but we didn’t care really.”

“If something happens to us, we know Greg will take good care of them for us.” Jenny said, “My sister would, but she has to much going on. She wouldn’t take them in.”

“Greg’s a good guy, who’s always getting hurt.” Sara said.

“Remind me the next time I’m in Vegas, to kick that guy’s ass.” Wes said, making Sara laugh.

“You’ll have to wait in line. David and I get first servings.” Sara said, watching Greg push both the kids at the same time.

“Why won’t he come out?” Wes asked.

“Nick? Nick won’t come out because his parents are from Texas. They’re big Christians, and he’s scared they’ll disown him or something.”

“That’s stupid!” Jenny said, “Doesn’t he know that he has us.”

“He still loves his family. It’s fine though. Greg will get over it, he’ll bounce back.” Sara said, sighing.

“I hope so. I’d hate to have to go to jail for killing someone.” Wes said, walking off.

A while later, the trio came back in. Greg was stretching his arms, letting them pop.

“Thanks Untle Greg.” Ben said, hugging him.

Greg smiled at Ben widely.

“You’re welcome Ben.” Greg said, watching Ben run away.

“Hey Uncle Greg, I’m sorry about Rikki. She’s just a little insane sometimes.” Riley apologized.

“It’s fine. Just warn me next time someone like that comes over.” Greg said, making Riley laugh.

“I need to go do my homework. I’ll see you when you leave.” Riley said, going up the stairs.

Greg walked into the living room where the others were and plopped down on the couch.

“Kids are draining.” Greg said, making Sara snort.

“You always have energy though, even if they are draining.” Sara said, smirking.

“That may be true but I’m still tired.” Greg said, “What time is it?”

“Almost ten.”

“You let me play with them for two hours!”

“Yeah, we didn’t realize it took us an hour to eat breakfast. Plus you looked like you were having fun.” Sara answered.

“Oh…fuck you.” Greg said, “That means we have an hour until we leave.”

Sara nodded.

“We might need to leave early though. Griss called while you were out. We have a case with Cath when we get back.” Sara explained.

“Wait…we? I thought I was off until Monday.”

“Well he obviously needs us.” Sara said.

“Ugh, what a jerk. I was looking forward to just sitting on my ass all day.” Greg said, “Maybe going out to get some food. Damn you Grissom!”

The other three laughed as Greg shook his fist at the ceiling.

“Ugh, I guess we need to go pack up our crap.” Sara said, getting up.

“Does that mean I have to move?”

“Yes.”

“Damn…Sara, pack my stuff for me.”

“Um…no.” Sara said, “Do it yourself.”

Greg got up slowly, trailing after Sara. He made a stabbing motion at her back, before whistling it off.

The next hour went by fairly fast. The others found themselves looking at the two sadly.

Ben and Riley hugged Greg tightly.

“You don’t have to go!” Riley said.

“Yeah Untle Greg, you and the pwetty laty can stay.” Ben said.

“As much as I would love to stay you two, I can’t. I have work to do, but I promise I’ll visit more often.” Greg said, smiling at them.

Ben nodded and the two let go.

“Wes, I’ll come for Christmas. I’ll even find a date.” Greg said, making Wes laugh.

“Make sure it’s a guy. Mom will flip a shit.”

“I guarantee it will be a man.” Greg said, clasping hands with Wes. That soon turned into a hug.

“Take care of yourself Greg. I don’t want to go to that hospital again.” Wes whispered in his ear.

“Don’t worry, that’s the last time I’ll be in there.” Greg promised.

“Good, have a safe trip. I’ll call you later.” Wes said, letting Greg go.

“We will. Bye Jen.” Greg said, hugging the woman.

“Greg, you take care. We’ll see if we can make it to your concert. You need all the support you can get.” Jen said.

“Alright. Bye guys.” Greg said, as he and Sara walked out of the door.

Greg got into the driver’s side of the Tahoe, shutting it.

“You already miss them.” Sara said.

“Yeah, but that’s how it is with family.” Greg said, waving.

“We could call Griss and say we’re having car trouble.” Sara said, making Greg laugh.

“Sara Sidle, wanting to skip work? The end must be near.” Greg said, as Sara smacked him.

“I just saw how you are with the kids. They really love you to death.” Sara said, “Your brother looked close to tears when you said we were leaving at eleven.”

“He just doesn’t like me being in Sin City. Wes hates that when I’m there, I could get hurt doing a scene. He hates that he can’t protect me anymore.” Greg said, starting the car.

Sara frowned at Greg, looking down. Greg pulled out and started the long trip home.

***

Greg stopped the car in front of his apartment. Greg and Sara both got out, seeing Trey and Jeffrey already there.

“Where’s David?”

“He’s coming.” Trey said, “This rehearsal was short notice you know.”

“Sorry.” Greg said simply.

“Whatever.” Jeffrey said, “We needed to rehearse anyways.”

David pulled up, but that wasn’t what bothered Greg. The thing that bothered Greg was that Warrick was with him. Greg mentally growled, and forced a happy smile on his face.

“David, what is he doing here?” Greg said, through his teeth.

“He invited himself.” David said, as the rest of the band turned their noses up.

“Hey Greg, I was wondering if you wanted to go get a beer instead of rehearse.” Warrick said.

“And get the 3rd degree, no thanks.” Greg said.

“How do you know I was g----”

“You blink a lot whenever something pisses you off, which in this case is me.”

“You notice that?”

“I’m a CSI aren’t I?” Greg snapped.

Warrick flinched slightly.

“Can’t I at least talk to you?”

“Fine.” Greg said, handing his keys to Sara, “If I’m not there in twenty minutes, don’t bother with the search party.”

Sara and the others snickered, as they went in. Greg leaned against the wall, and looked at Warrick.

“Look you both aren’t saying why you’re mad at each other. I just want to know why you are being a jackass.”

“I’m being a jackass? ME! Christ, it’s always the outsider isn’t it? Never Nick, cause that’s to damn difficult to compute in your puny brains.” Greg said, laughing, “Here it is in laymen terms. Maybe your head can understand it.”

Warrick glared heatedly at the ex-lab tech.

“I told Nick that I was Bi and he flipped. That’s why we’re pissed off.” Greg said.

‘Why didn’t you say that Nick was gay too?’ Greg thought, ‘I still want to protect him…after all he put me through…..I’m such a dumb ass.’

“You’re……Bi?” Warrick asked, looking mildly shocked with a hint of disgust.

“Yeah…I’d appreciate it if you didn’t tell anyone though.” Greg said, “But that’s why we don’t want to talk about it. I asked him not to tell anyone.”

Warrick’s cell phone went off, as he answered it.

“Brown. Hey Nicky! You’ve got a date tonight? Why are you calling me about it? OH yeah man I totally understand….uh huh….alright. Later man.”

Greg closed his eyes tightly, trying to stop from crying.

“I’ve got to go rehearse…so if you’ll excuse me.” Greg said.

He had to leave quickly; he didn’t want to cry in front of Warrick of all people. When he got into the apartment complex, the first of the tears made their way down his face. He walked up the stairs, trying to pull himself together. It wasn’t working though, Greg was crying harder than he had in weeks. He greeted his neighbor, Ms. Smith as normally as he could. She was concerned, but Greg just told her he had a bad case.

He got into his apartment, and saw the band was already set up.

“Greg? You okay?” Trey asked.

“F-Fine. Let’s do this.” Greg said, pinching the bridge of his nose.

David and Sara shared a look.

“Free style it.” Greg told them, “I want to free style some lyrics.”

“You haven’t done that in a while.”

“Well I want to now.” Greg snapped.

The others slightly jumped at Greg’s harsh tone, but did as he said.

David started the beat, making it sound thunderous in all its appeal. The other two followed his example, as Greg counted the beats by tapping his foot.

‘I didn't want to know
I just didn't want to know
Best to keep things in the shallow end
Cause I never quite learned how to swim’

Sara shared another look with David, as they all continued.

‘I just didn't want to know
Didn't want, didn't want,
Didn't want, didn't want

Close my eyes just to look at you
Taken by the seamless vision
I close my eyes,
Ignore the smoke,
Ignore the smoke’

Greg stopped for a second to get his wits about him, before he continued with the song. Tears were streaming down his face in tiny crystal rivulets.

‘Call it aftermath, she's turning blue
Such a lovely color for you
Call it aftermath, she's turning blue
While I just sit and stare at you’

Sara was confused on why he would use she, instead of he…then it hit her. Greg was probably comparing a woman who died by asphyxiation to Nick.

‘Because I don't want to know
I didn't want to know
I just didn't want to know
I just didn't want

Mistook their nods for an approval
Just ignore the smoke and smile’

David messed up a chord, as he looked at Greg oddly. Everyone would accept them, why would Greg think different now?

‘Call it aftermath, she's turning blue
Such a lovely color for you
Call it aftermath, she's turning blue
Such a perfect color for your eyes
Call it aftermath, she's turning blue
Such a lovely color for you
Call it aftermath, she's turning blue
While I just sit and stare at you’

Greg couldn’t think of anything else to sing, so he ended it as fast as he could.

‘Didn’t want to know.’

Greg took a deep gulp of air, and tried not to cry anymore. He didn’t know why he tried, they just kept coming.

Sara walked over quickly and hugged him.

“That, Greg, was gorgeous.” Sara said, “Slightly awkward, and out of nowhere. But gorgeous all the same.”

“What’d Warrick say to you?” David asked.

“He asked why Nick and I had been fighting. So I told him I told Nick that I was Bi.”

“Well…what happened?”

“He looked surprised and disgusted….that’s not it though…Nick called him…”

“What’s wrong?”

“Nick has a date tonight….I feel so stupid!” Greg yelled, throwing the microphone stand down and ran to the bathroom.

The others chased after him right away but were greeted with a door slammed in their face. They heard it lock, and started banging on the door.

“Greg! Open up!” Sara said, as they all heard heart wrenching sobs coming from the other side.

“Just go away! Go home! I need to be alone!” Greg all but screamed.

“That’s it, I’m going to kill Stokes.” David said, grabbing his coat.

“Wait for us.” Jeffrey said, as Trey grabbed their coats.

The three men exited the door, letting Sara stay.

“Greg, hun….you need to come out of there.”

“Sara just go away!”

“Greg it’s just one date!” Sara yelled.

“I don’t care! There was a part of me that wished…..that wished that Nick would come back….wished he’d know he was wrong….I’m so stupid.”

“No you aren’t! You were just hopeful! We all are in relationships!” Sara said, “Greg, I know Nick still loves you….he has to. We just have to make him feel like an ass for all the pain he’s put you through. Now come on out.”

The door opened a few inches, revealing an already shabby looking Greg.

“I’m so tired of being hurt.” Greg said, going into Sara’s open arms.

Sara hugged Greg tightly.

“We’ll get him back to you….don’t worry Greg. Everything will be fine.” Sara whispered in his ear, as Greg finally passed out from exhaustion.

***

Two hours, twenty five minutes, and thirty seconds.

That was how long it was until Greg’s concert was.

That was a long time to Greg. They were setting up their equipment on stage, while trying to figure out how many people could actually fit in the space.

Greg was sitting on a bean bag in front of a microphone. He was still slightly memorizing the last song he wrote. The others weren’t going to mess with him until they were completely sure he was stable.

There was already a line forming to get in. Greg went to where the room backstage was. Sara was standing there with an outfit for him.

“I have to go get them in a bit, but his is your outfit.” Sara said, “Those over there, are theirs. Your makeup you can do yourself.”

“Sara I don’t think I can do this. My stomach is in knots.” Greg said.

“You have never been nervous about performing.” Sara said.

“I didn’t know I could be nervous about it.” Greg told her truthfully.

“You’ll get through it Greg. Trust me, you will.” Sara said, “It’s just any other show, except with new songs.”

“I know…it’s just that I….I’m really not sure if I can sing the new songs.”

“Sure you can. It will all be fine Greg. Just wait and see.” Sara said, “Nothing will go wrong.”

Sara left him in the room alone. Greg, closing his eyes every so often. He started to pull on the outfit. The tight black pants, fit him snuggly and left nothing to the imagination. The same with the black shirt. The boots were a little difficult to get on, but Greg had managed it.

The others were coming in to get dressed too. Greg already setting up the makeup stand. He put on some kohl, and looked at himself in the mirror. He got out some glitter, and put it around his eyes. His eyes shined brightly behind the kohl and glitter. He put on some form of gloss to make his lips shine, and turned to his friends.

“You look awesome Greg.” They each said, setting on doing their own makeup.

“Greg, are you sure you want to do this?” Jeffrey asked.

“More than sure.” Greg replied.

“Besides that, we can’t have the fans waiting for too long.” Trey told him.

“Everything is set up, we all look awesome, and the fans are being let in.”

*

One hour, forty minutes, and thirty-five seconds.

Greg was counting down to it. He was being a bit paranoid. He was so nervous about the team seeing him perform, that it threw him off his game.

“Greg, concentrate.” David told him, as Greg looked at him.

“I don’t think I can do this.” Greg said, “I think I’m going to puke.”

“Greg, nothing bad is going to happen. We’re just going to perform like usual.”

“Except with new songs, I know that.” Greg snapped at him, “I’m sorry….I’m just so stressed out right now….this can’t be happening. I do not get nervous over anything. How the hell is this making me nervous?”

David shrugged his shoulders.

“We have to go meet the fans.”

“Oh yeah…the ones that know about the whole backstage gig.” Greg said.

Greg followed David out, but not before stopping.

Greg thought something was up.

*

Ten minutes, and twenty nine seconds.

Yeah Greg was definitely paranoid now. He should just tattoo it on his forehead or something.

The band knew he was on his tippy toes. So they knew to avoid the egg shells when talking to him. When Greg was this stressed out, it wasn’t good to get him mad.

They had learned this the hard way. That was had gotten Trey smacked, Jeffrey punched, and David with a busted nose.

Yeah, they’d definitely avoid the egg shells. In fact, they were picking up the egg shells so they wouldn’t step on them. It was a tedious job, because there were so many to step on.

David had spent the last hour trying to calm Greg down. It wasn’t working though, Greg was about to have a panic attack, when they were about to go on.

When his cell phone rang, he almost snapped at the person on the other line. That’s how frustration always was with David Hodges. Especially when the lead singer of his band, was having about two seconds from hyperventilating.

“What?”

“David, it’s Sara. We’re all on our way. Acutally, we’re almost there. How’s Greg?”

“Two splits of a second from a full blown panic attack. Why?”

“Why?”

“He’s nervous.” David said, “Don’t worry, he’ll be fine when you get here.”

“He’d better be.”

David hung up the phone, and squatted in front of Greg.

“Greg, you have to breath and calm down. We have to go on in a few minutes.” David said, already spotting the team.

Sara wasn’t kidding obviously. Greg took a big breath, and stood up.

“I’m going to go talk to them.” Greg said, walking away.

*

Five minutes until show time.

***