Patrick Trafford is pleased with the simple life he has, spending his time tending a tiny garden accompanied by his best friend, Chad, who just happens to be a cockroach. Nevertheless, he can't hide the excitement bubbling in him when a man suddenly appears in the garden.<br><br>Damien Abner politely welcomes, albeit somewhat at a loss, Patrick's warm offer to spend time with him. To have a coffee, watch some movie, and dance along with the characters in it.<br><br>They begin to date and Patrick has never been happier, though he barely knows who Damien is -- not that it matters to him. For him, being clueless does mean bliss.

Just a Little Unwell

Patrick whimpers. “God, no.” He feels as if his entire body has turned boneless.


Damien catches him and without a word, guides him to the bed. He holds Patrick close as they’re sitting there side by side, without saying anything for the longest time.


Patrick feels incredibly refreshed the following morning when he wakes up—in a way he’s never felt before. He gets off the bed and opens the windows. Fresh air and the sight of pretty flowers greet him. He goes to the bathroom to brush his teeth and wash his face, changes from his pajamas to jeans and t-shirt, and opens the door to the front yard. Something lands on his shoulder and chirps. Patrick smiles.


He’s missed his best friend and missed watering his plants. He jumps immediately into the job. After some time, he feels eyes on him and looks up, squinting against the sun. His smile cracks wide.


Chapter 6