Thunder Canoodles

      Thanks to the cascading rain, two acrobats stay cooped inside an upstate New York house, which belonged to one of them. Since there's no practice for a day or two, they attempted to make themselves comfortable, or do something to occupy their time. The former option is a bit difficult for Angel. Instead of being his usual plucky self, the tan skinned man huddles within a nearby window sill. His bright emerald eyes grimly gaze at the rain hitting hard against the window pane. In truth, he despises the rain, specifically thunderstorms. Too many horrid memories and flashbacks plague his mind of one day that changed his life forever.

      Regino, on the other hand, is quite the opposite. He enjoys rainy days, whether it be calm showers or violent storms. Plus, it aided his strategic planning skills long ago. Now that he's no longer a Mafioso, the blond can finally appreciate the weather in peace. Regino was always in the mood for smoothies. So, he created his usual favorite, which is berry banana with protein. He made sure to clean up afterwards. He left the kitchen with his smoothie in hand. All of his attention was focused on his beverage and the storm. However, that plan was diverted in the form of his compeer snuggling against an unforgiving window sill.

      Malaise surges throughout the Italian's mind. His violet stare blazed a trail from the top of Angel’s lengthy black hair down to his pastel yellow slippers. Regino could see that those virescent eyes are on the verge of tears. The older male immediately knew why he's (Angel) feeling so shattered. Really, he would do just about anything to see the younger's killer smile. It's days like these that bring unpleasantness. In lieu of his original plan, Regino makes a bee line for Angel. The latter was too preoccupied, let alone numbed to notice. His ex-rival stood near him with a frail smile.

"Hi, there."  Gio's whisper reaches out.

      Angel never broke his concentration, not even for a second. He heard the other's voice, but decides against answering. His eyes followed the pitter patter of rain in a bleak fashion. The black haired male bit his bottom lip in attempt to refrain from tearing up.

      Still not one word left the dejected adult. That one response was made known in the form of a mere tear. The source of his misery lies within agonizing recollections. Remembering his mother's demise is a day Angel loathes the most. That and his descent into chaotic mania. Just now. Gio caught a glimpse of Angel’s tears. He knew thunderstorms upset the poor guy, but never did he thought they would bring his partner to tears. Right then and there, fraternal instincts kicked in. If talking doesn't seem to work, then physical closeness would do the trick.

      Regino maneuvers his way behind Angel to sit on the window sill. One arm snaked around the latter's shoulder, and the other around his bared waist. It's unusual of him to be physically affectionate, let alone towards another man. The younger wanted to pull away but it didn't come to mind. Instead of pushing Gio away, Angel leaned back on his chest. His naked shoulders trembling slightly. Blurry vision that focused on the heaving rain, now closed in utter dolor. The only thing that kept him from completely breaking are those protective, yet destructive, arms around him.

       The Italian doesn't know what to say or do to make the situation better. Mainly because he's never been emotionally attached to anyone. Despite being close friends with Terence, they were never close on an emotional level. Strange enough, Gio would be emotional with Angel instead. To top it off, he was revealing a more gentler side whenever around the latter. Guess it was thanks to Angel’s amicable personality. Just seeing him unhappy and reduced to such a state is sure enough tearjerking.

        Having said that, Regino bestowed Angel's shoulder a light massage to calm his spirits. At first, he wasn't sure if the Greek male wanted this kind of attention, but it didn't hurt to try. To some degree, and much to Gino's surprise, the cuddling worked. A tan hand reached out to caress Regino's golden locks is a key indicator. Angel won't say that he missed being close to the older man, but he would show it from time to time. The latter's chin settled between Angel's neck and shoulder. Golden blond and ink black strands meshed perfectly together. 

"Mio Angelo." Those foreign words slip into Angel's ear. 

       He placed a small kiss on the sage's tear stained cheek. That's a first for Regino to ever give a kiss. The last time they kissed was 7 years ago. Closed amethyst eyes began to well up unbeknownst to Gio. The pain Angel felt, Reggie can feel as well. Angel, for now, is about as docile as a pussycat. His crying ceased, and his eyes damp and tired. All he wanted was the pain to go away, but it would never leave him alone. Due to their inner desire to be this close, the boys didn't mind cuddling each other. However, neither will never admit to their newfound enjoyment of cradling one another like this.

       The duo gazed blankly at the vehement weather together. Slow deep breaths heaved from their lungs as darkness encased their athletic bodies. Now that Regino is given another chance with Angel, he vows to make this one right. For himself, and for the brotherhood. The least he could do is truly be reliable for both of his brothers. This is just the beginning of a new life, better than a life of crime.