⚠︎ This chapter has mentions of blood consumption, suicide idealization, violence and sexual innuendoes.
♬ Blame - BB Cooper ♬
''When a fire starts to burn, one must be careful to not feed it, otherwise it might consume you.''
Each of the Algeo children have their own specialities, their own uniqueness, perhaps because their parents were always focused on letting their children spread their wings properly.
The eldest, Zacharie Algeo, was always interested in serving others, his community, a duty greater than himself, that's why he chose to become a soldier, but after the war, the PTSD was too great to continue, so he decided to serve the military differently as an on-field nurse, however later on when life slowly became more stable, he turned to serving the Mayor of Iris City as his secretary, but that was a job that corroded his heart more than assisted his goals, so he quit when his fifth brother was born, as he felt he should become a better role-model. Becoming a hematologist just made sense, he had studied a lot due to his days as a nurse, and developed a high interest in blood, so he studied more, even getting his PhD a few years later, now he's stable and happy, although he sometimes still feel he's lacking, there's no doubt this was his calling. When it comes to relationships, he's a faithful man married to the same woman for 200 years, and he doesn't have many past relationships as he was too focused on his jobs to develop them.
The same can be said about the second eldest, Nicolas Algeo knew his calling since he was a child, though. Admiring his father as a general and wanting to ascend through the ladder of the militaire quickly, he was the youngest ever appointed Sergeant in the Posy Republic Vampire Division, however this dream didn't even last 100 years, as the war broke him. No one in the family exactly knows what happened when he went missing for six months during the war 500 years ago. Whatever happened forever changed him, he became more violent, more unhinged and lost all morals, after the war ended, he turned to business, and it turned out he had a talent for being a gangster, running legit businesses that were the smoke screen of the underground. Drugs, prostitution, gambling, anything one would think a true crime lord would get involved with, he does it. Considering his business has lasted for 400 years already, one must assume that he is quite good at it, and that's also how he met the love of his life, Azrael Sofer. It's quite hard to meet someone that matches your wavelength so well, most would say they're both crazy son of a bitches, and maybe they are, but they're 100 years together and Nicolas was even ready to cut ties with his family when he came out of the closet just so he could be together with Azrael.
Ezekiel Algeo, however, as the third eldest brother, lost his passion quite early in life, as a child he was always delicate, and he enjoyed music and ballet the most, a lot of elder vampires mocked him, saying that he was too ''fruity'' and that he looked like a girl when he danced. But his father never wavered his support, and after coming of age, he finally achieved his dream, becoming a professional ballet dancer for the Iris City Dance Company, he was over the moon, there wasn't a day that didn't go by that he didn't practice, only delivering the most perfect of repertoires. But his dream was cut short by an accident when he was only 167 years old. He had just started grasping the perfect life, with his long-term girlfriend whom he was even considering proposing to, but the world had other plans for him. The happy day when his brother was born was also the day he lost it all. However, perhaps because of the unwavering support of his family, or the adorable face of the angel of the Algeo family, he was able to go through it. Sure, he lost his girlfriend and his ballet career, but he found a new passion, guns.
There is quite the contradiction for a boy that grew up being told he looked like a girl to become a gun crazed buff scarred hitman, either way, he is happy, his brothers thought he was too sensible to kill others, but contrary to their expectations, Ezekiel always found his job to be quite boring, only enjoying cleaning his guns and choosing which to do his job with than the act of killing by itself. Well, he sure carries a lot of the family's skeletons in his closet, so maybe he is the perfect person for such a job.
When it comes to Milo Algeo, the first middle brother and fourth eldest, he might be underutilizing his talents due to the fact that he sleeps more than he is awake. As a child he never cried or made a fuss, well, that was unless he was woken up by others. The only reason he became a teacher was so that he could have long vacations, surprisingly he is quite the good teacher, supporting his students rigorously and excelling in his area of choice. Being one of the most awarded Architects in the Posy Republic. Not that he ever attended an award ceremony, that would take off time from his naps, as one might imagine, he never had a relationship, even if he is considered the most good-looking brother, he never had interest in others, regardless of sex, no one can tell if his disinterest is due to lack of true interest or if he just couldn't be bothered to lose sleep over such feelings.
Levi Algeo, on the other hand, even though he's quite young for a vampire, having only 110 years of age, he had a fulfilling and ambitious life. Music was always his passion since he was 2 years old, excelling in playing the most diverse of instruments, and although he had what most would call talent, it didn't even compare to his abilities with his hands, so it was a no-brainer that he would open his own Music Instruments Manufacturer when he was only 17 years old, without a single penny from his father, the boy was able to build a strong company that became reference across the planet. When a famous artist wants their own signature instrument, he's the one they call. And it's not only in business that Levi excels in, he managed to gather quite the cult following of women interested in him, although he never had difficulties to warm his bed with someone's company, developing a deep connection was never in his books. As he doesn't think he can devout himself to someone when his only true love is crafting instruments.
The third middle brother and sixth eldest should actually be considered still one of the youngests, with less than 100 years of age, Mael Algeo isn't considered by many to be even a proper adult vampire. Too ''wet behind the ears'' to be taken seriously, he always suffered with his own identity, although just like his brothers he does have an impressive talent. Even if his brothers can be considered the bests in each of their fields, none can be called a true genius, well, that is except by Mael and Eryx. Mael was born with a talent for the arts, being a genius painter since he was small, although he never took it as his profession, when his younger brothers were born he felt almost betrayed, turning against his brothers and rebelling, becoming a homicides detective was his way of saying he would ruin his brothers` life. But he was too weak to properly do so, ending up with a frustrated career and a deep resentment towards his family as he thinks they're the reason he suffers so much, seeing himself as someone unloved and uncared for by others. That's probably why his only relationship ended up with him crying, drunk over his mind and calling his ex non stop, a deep fear of abandonment only seems to make him be more abandoned, over and over again by those he entrusts his heart to.
And Eryx Algeo, the youngest, the prized child, the only one that doesn't remember their father, but no less impressive. A math genius that can do insane calculations in his head, winning awards not even the greatest in history did, nothing justifies his big inferiority complex over his brothers, well, except for the fact that he was born a human inside a vampire family. Drowning himself in drugs to ease the pain of feeling rejected by his own blood, perhaps that wasn't the truth, but either way he was lost within his own misery to even notice the sacrifices his elder brothers made so that he wouldn't suffer in life. Regarding relationships, Eryx never had one, even as he had crushes during school, he was disregarded as a freak by his peers, and only worthy of being taken advantage of, be it by his money or naivety.
''...What about the hunk Luc Algeo?'' A shrieveling voice that would drive anyone insane, but a face and body that could be only described as the sin of lust itself, Aster Faucher sure loves taunting his roommate so early in the morning. The red-haired boy that is dripping wet from just returning from his morning swim enters the room in anger, grabbing the book from his roommate's hand.
''Keep your filthy hands off my diary you motherfucker'', Luc growls in anger, giving Aster the death stare, even if Luc asked Levi to put a mark on his diary, who said the white-haired boy cares? A few blisters are nothing compared to knowing the deep secrets of Luc Algeo and his family.
''Well, I don't remember fucking you mother, you know?'' Aster says with a mischievous smile, he knows quite well he's pushing all the wrong buttons, but he learned back in high school that if he can't be friends with Luc, he'll need to be satisfied with being his enemy. ''I think I would remember sleeping with such a hot woman'', he licks his lips, his purple irises shining with mischief, but all he gets is a nasty gaze from Luc.
''You're disgusting Aster'', Luc mumbles, putting his diary in his bag and changing his clothes to his usual basketball uniform. He can't feel the other's gaze, maybe he should, but he was always quite oblivious to the actions of those he hates.
''At least I don't pretend to hate my favorite brother'', Aster says with a laugh. ''Your phone background is him, why you keep acting as if you hate his sight?''
''It's not a picture of him'', Luc says, feeling crossed.
''I don't think the Algeo's have another child that had green eyes'', Aster rebuttals with a smile. That fucking annoying smile, I wish I could rip his face off, Luc thinks as he gazes at his roommate again.
''It's the last picture of my father, Aster''.
''You could've cut Eryx out if you truly wanted though''.
''Shut the fuck up'', per usual, instead of admiting his real feelings, Luc resorts to mean words and deflection. ''I hope you have a terrible day, you fucker'', he says, showing the middle finger to Aster before leaving their shared room, he wasn't running away from the conversation, no, he was just late for his first classes.
He can feel his phone vibrating in his pocket non stop, it better not be… this fucker.
Faucher Fucker: Your life would be so much easier if you just admitted to loving me.
Faucher Fucker: Think of me all day Luc.
Faucher Fucker: Just be careful to not be caught having a great time.
Faucher Fucker sent a picture.
This fuckin' son of a bitch, Luc feels like throwing up, sure he's used to it, every morning is the same thing, a provocation, taunting him, begging him to keep him in his mind. And that's why he absolutely despises Aster Faucher, enough so that if he ever got a free murder pass, he would choose him, without second thoughts.
The picture in question he received is the same picture he usually gets every morning, an image of him sleeping, his arms around a shirtless Aster that has the most fucking annoying smile on his face, as if he was telling 'see, I told you love me', but that's nothing but a bad habit he acquired as a child, he tends to seek warmth while he's sleeping, due to his nightmares, usually it was his brother Levi's bed or even his Mother's. But at the Academy he unfortunately got stuck with the person he hates the most in the entire world, he would sincerely rather a person that kicked him when he sleepwalked or even punched or screamed at him.
But all Aster does is allow him to cling to him in his sleep, and every morning send a picture to Luc, taunting him. And even if he tries all the time to get a new roommate, it's not like he can say that he's the one jumping on the other's bed and all he's doing is allowing him to.
He scratches his head with frustration, I can't wait to graduate so that I can get rid of this asshole.
His morning is busy as usual, as a senior he has so much to do that the existence of Aster Faucher doesn't bother him again until lunch, when he's sitting, eating with his friends from the basketball team when the man himself sits next to him, behind him the legion of upset fans make Luc's eyes twitch. Why can't he fucking leave me alone?
''Why do you guys keep leaving a place for him to seat?'' Luc asks, tossing his empty blood bag at the cafeteria's table.
His peers laugh. ''Dude, how can we split a married couple?'' One of his colleagues says in a mocking tone.
''Thank you everyone, we appreciate you respecting our honeymoon'', Aster answers with an annoying smile, laying his head on Luc's shoulder, just to be shoved off the next second.
''Fuck off, and you guys are a bunch of fake friends'', he says, getting out of the table, its not like he intended staying there for long. He doesn't manage to get very far before Aster grabs his arm.
''Where are you running off to, honey?'' His tone is sickeningly sweet.
''Ugh, don't make me throw up what I just ate, Aster'', Luc says, annoyed, he pushes his arm off Aster's hand and continues to walk towards the main building of the Academy, Eryx said that after lunch is when he wants me to linger close to the office to stop that woman, he doesn't even know if his annoyance is due to the request or the fact that Aster keeps following him in silence. ''Can't you fuck off?'' He asks once they enter the building.
Aster smiles. ''I can, but I don't want to''.
What was he even expecting? The man follows him around almost everyday, why would things change now?
The corridors near the Students Council's office are filled with its members, they're chatting quietly, but Luc can hear snippets of their conversations as he passes them.
''...The President…''
''...Algeo kid.''
''I never saw him do that…'''
''...personally escorted''.
''...Jealous''.
I can't even think of the proper scenario, he observes, as all he hears are incomplete sentences, however just when he was considering leaving for class, the bell rings and he sees her. Long wavy golden brown hair up in a high ponytail, the uniform of the tennis club and anxious emerald eyes, the woman of small stature reminds Luc of a bunny. Her eyes are similar to Eryx's. Well, when his brother was a human that is.
The woman is lingering near the office's door, her eyes showing clear conflict. She seems to be wondering if he should try to enter the room or go to class. Luc isn't all that interested in flirting with others, he's more focused on his thesis and the national championship to be bothered with romance. But what can he do when Eryx asks him for a favor for the first time in his life?
Dazzling smile, a lower gaze and pushing his hair back, Luc is completely aware he is extremely good-looking, and his muscles? He doesn't even need to try to show it off, the basketball team's jersey is enough. ''Hello, are you're lost princess?'' His tone is low, but not enough to be considered his bed voice, he's trying to distract her, not have sex with her.
He doesn't need to see Aster to know the man has a disturbed expression on his face, yeah, seeing Luc flirt must make him sick. The feeling is completely mutual.
''Oh, I just want to apply for the Students Council'', she says, her voice is velvety, if clouds could speak, that probably would be their voice, just then Luc remembers the girl, he met her at the entrance ceremony as she stumbled into his group, blushing like crazy and apologizing, introducing herself when no one even asked her name. At least she's cute, he thinks, not as bothered as he thought he would be.
''Then just enter the office'', Aster interrupts their conversation, putting his arm around Luc's shoulders, his gaze is cold and his purple eyes are dark, he seems annoyed, but the red-haired man can't exactly tell why, he also doesn't really care. He pushes the other away, as his arm is heavy and his perfume makes his nose tickle.
Not only that, but if she enters the office, she'll do exactly what Luc is trying to prevent her from doing. ''The bell has already rung, you should go to class and come by later'', he says, still smiling, he can tell it works due to the dazed expression on her face. At the corner of his eye he can see the disgusted expression on Aster Faucher's face. You're the one lingering like a leech, fuck off if you're gonna keep looking at me like that.
''Right'', the girl says, but she doesn't move, as if she's still unsure.
''I can take you to your class if you'd like'', Luc says, bending a little, just to make her nervous but not enough to invade her personal space, immediately he can feel a hand pushing him back, he turns to look at Aster angrily, barely holding in cursing the other.
''Thank you for the offer, but I don't think I'll have time after classes…'' She says, gazing from one of the men to the other, confused. ''It'll be quick so…'', she touches the door handle, Luc wants to stop her, but Aster's hand on his chest is holding too tightly.
''Let me go you asshole, you're ruining things for me'', he whispers to the white-haired man, but he doesn't budge. ''What the hell is wrong with you?''
''You like her?'' His question is so stupid that Luc almost laughs.
''Why do you fucking care?'' He shoots back instead, making Aster flustered, of course he won't answer that. Maybe he's into her? But we just met, and here I was thinking Eryx was the only one jumping the gun.
Regardless of his attempts, Aster doesn't let him go and he isn't able to stop the woman from opening the door of the office, none of the members of the Students Council's stop her either, they just pretend not to see her. Their President is way too scary, so pretending not to notice is safer than not being able to stop her.
''Hello?'' She says, stepping into the room, frustrated Luc shoves Aster back, entering the office right after the woman.
If there was a way to temporarily become blind, Luc would've wished that he was right at that moment. Even if the office is dark, he can see clearly through the light entering through the door they just opened. His younger brother was under a man, his shirt lifted and his hair messy, not only that but the two were…
Luc turns to Aster, who enters behind him. ''Fucking hit me in the head right now'', he pleads, making disgusted sounds. ''Oh my god, and I thought seeing Nicolas sitting on Azrael's lap was the worst I would ever see''.
But he isn't as flustered as the woman, she is red from head to toe, frozen in place, as if she is unaware of how to even react.
''Luc?'' A panicked Eryx calls, his voice is hoarse and he is adjusting his shirt in place, the other man, on the other hand, looks as if he is completely unbothered as he opens the curtains.
Per usual, Sevan Helge's eyes give Luc the creeps, those white irises unmovable, as if he is unable to feel any kind of emotion. Even if he knew his brother was interested in him, he didn't know they would move this fast, nor did he wish to ever see them making out.
''Are you out of your fucking mind Sevan Helge?'' He can't help but be mad, even if he was ready for this outcome. In his eyes, Eryx is still the same child that claimed he looked cool playing basketball at the court in their house ten years ago. ''Taking advantage of a child?'' He says, it takes every fiber in his body to not hit him right now.
''Luc Algeo'', Sevan says, nodding his head. ''We're all adults here'', he says, adjusting his tie, the only thing that became crooked as Eryx pulled as they were kissing. He doesn't even look like someone that was deeply kissing someone just moments ago, well, except his swollen lips, of course.
''Ha'', Luc pushes his hair back, trying to contain his anger. ''I thought Milo knew how to control his students, but it seems he's as lazy as usual'', he mumbles, turning to Eryx. ''And you fucking brat, you come out of the closet and in the next day you're already engaging in such disgusting acts?'' He can't help but be rash, he's worried, sure, but he was never the best at expressing it.
Behind him Aster is watching everything completely amused, another person Luc wishes he could just punch the life out of.
''Yes brother I'm aware you're worried, and yes it was completely consensual'', Eryx says with a sigh, it seems that when it comes to his brothers he's able to speak without stumbling or becoming red. ''I asked him to date me and he accepted'', he continued, still adjusting his clothes, a pillow on his lap. ''I'll also be working under him as the Treasurer of the Students Council''.
''Way to go, Eryx'', Aster comments with a smile. ''Snatching the heartless robot in your first day, I guess differently from your brother you don't wait around'', he's clearly making a jab at Luc, but he doesn't care, he's way too concerned with the scene he witnessed, unsure if he'll ask Ezekiel to erase his memory or not, he surely doesn't want this in his brain, but erasing it would make him forget why he's so mad at Sevan Helge and why he must hate him.
All Eryx does is stare at the people in the room, his bright orange eyes showing uncertainty. If you're so unsure, why are you doing this? Luc wonders, but he can't bring himself to say it out loud.
''Well, if everything is properly laid out, I have affairs to attend to and I also need to teach Eryx the ropes of the job'', Sevan says, his voice and eyes are cold, even when he looks at the boy he was just kissing. Fuck Eryx, I think I would rather see you kissing Aster that fucker than this robot.
Sevan turns to Eryx, helping him up and placing a kiss on the man's cheek, if any of them believed he had feelings, they would think he did that to taunt Luc, just to drive him even more insane. But such thoughts can't be had when they're talking about a person devoid of feelings.
And Aster and Luc can say that because they studied alongside Sevan during their years at school. And not even once they saw a single emotion on the man's face or him saying anything that could demonstrate he likes or dislikes something. Even a programmed robot has a broader range of emotions.
''I can't stay here to see this disgusting display of affection'', Luc mumbles to himself. ''I'll talk with you later, Eryx'', he looks at his brother as if he was going to kill him, Eryx flinches but doesn't answer. With a last glance at the woman that is now speaking with Sevan Helge, Luc leaves that office a complete mess of emotions.
''Are you jealous that your brother got someone before you?'' Aster asks, a smile on his face and he seems way more laid back than before, his hands behind his head, slowly walking next to Luc.
''Fuck no,'' Luc answers with a tired sigh. ''I knew he liked Sevan, but that was disgusting nonetheless, they just fuckin' met, how can he like him?''
''You can like someone you meet in a day, a month, a year or even a decade, Luc, it's not like we can control our own hearts'', Aster says, as if he knows by experience.
''Well, I never liked someone'', Luc says, grabbing his phone to text his brothers. ''And I don't intend to until I'm at least 100''.
Aster laughs. ''Is that a promise or a wish?''
''More like a fact''.
✦
A loud and sharp sound resonates through the lobby of the company Parts, the origin of such sound is a slap right across Levi Algeo's face, given by an objectively gorgeous woman who most could recognize from some billboards as a model. The woman, completely flushed in the face and wearing only high-end clothing is staring at a calm and expressionless man, who's simply staring at her blankly. ''May I inquire what that was for?'' Levi asks, contrary to the tone he uses at home, his voice is cold and his tone controlled.
''You fucking piece of shit'', she says with an annoyed laugh. ''You don't even know'', she continues.
''Well, I do hear that a lot'', Levi says, grabbing his phone to check a message that just came from one of his brothers.
''You'll never be loved'', she continues to speak, completely frustrated, but he doesn't really care, he doesn't even remember her name. ''You'll die alone''.
''Yeah, sure'', he mumbles, turning to leave when the woman grabs him with her nails digging through his skin.
''I really wish to see you grovel one day, Levi Algeo'', she says, tears running through her face, but his gaze is completely indifferent.
''You're ugly crying'', he says simply, pushing the woman away and signaling for security to take her away, he doesn't have time for that today.
Especially considering that is a common occurrence in his everyday life. A woman that he slept with once or twice comes by and acts as if he professed his love, when in actuality he was quite clear from the get go. He'll never love them, and they'll never be as important to him as his company and family, so if they can take that, he'll date them. However even when they say they can take it, they never can, resulting in an almost weekly show for those who work under him.
Eryx Discussion Board
Seventh Brother: Milo, you motherfucker.
Seventh Brother: Control your fuckin' students.
Seventh Brother: That robot fucker was kissing Eryx as if he was eating him up.
Sixth Brother: …Sevan Helge?
Sixth Brother: Eryx just said he was interested.
Sixth Brother: That was quick.
First Brother: You guys should respect his privacy.
Seventh Brother: PRIVACY?
Seventh Brother: PRIVACY?
Seventh Brother: I wish I could burn my retina to never be able to see again.
Second Brother: What an exaggeration Luc.
Second Brother: Eryx is just exploring his sexuality, I did the same in school.
First Brother: I do think we all should have some boundaries.
Seventh Brother: Thank you for the visual image I NEVER requested, Nicolas.
Second Brother: You're welcome dear baby brother.
Seventh Brother: Fucker.
Levi: Who?
Levi: Eryx is too young to be doing such things.
Seventh Brother: Agreed.
First Brother: Levi, when father said the same when he found condoms in your drawer, you said that you were already an adult.
Levi: Not the same thing in the slightest.
Sixth Brother: For once I must agree with that square.
Sixth Brother: Eryx is already, by both human and vampire standards, an adult.
Second Brother: I do think Eryx is too young, but he has enough age to learn about his own mistakes.
Second Brother: All we can do is give him advice and help him in the right direction.
Seventh Brother: And how do you suggest we do that? I don't know if you noticed but I don't see anyone here that has their life together enough to do that.
Sixth Brother: Damn Luc.
Seventh Brother: Fine, except Zacharie, but he's too old and too straight to give Eryx any useful advice.
Seventh Brother: His sex talk consists in giving me a biology book and condoms.
Second Brother: HAHAHAHA.
Second Brother sent an audio message.
''He did the same to me, he got that from dad, too bad it was useless to me since I like men''.
Sixth Brother: Why won't Nicolas talk with him then?
Levi: That would be an absolute disaster.
Levi: Nicolas barely knows what he's doing himself.
Second Brother: Fuck that hurt Levi. For the record, I did sleep with quite a lot of men.
Second Brother: Before Azrael I slept with what? 130 give or take.
Seventh Brother left the group chat.
Second Brother added Seventh Brother to the group chat.
Second Brother: Stop acting like a baby Luc.
Seventh Brother: May I state that I am, in fact, too young to be reading such shit.
First Brother: Sorry I failed you with the sexual education, I just didn't know how to do such things, dad never taught me.
Second Brother: More like you did exactly as dad taught you.
Second Brother added Brother Fucker to the group chat.
Seventh Brother: HELL NO.
Brother Fucker: Love told me about your guys issue, I suggest talking with Eryx normally, he probably already knows the basics, as he's no child, and since he's too young, you must help him understand that no matters how good doing without a condom is and even if there's no risk of pregnancy he still needs to use one.
Seventh Brother: I never wanted to be blind so much in my entire life.
Second Brother: You always say that Luc.
Seventh Brother: Exactly.
Levi: Would he listen to us? First of all, I didn't listen to Ma at all when she told me to not play around.
Sixth Brother: In my humble opinion, this is all Milo's fault and he should be the one talking with Eryx.
Brother Fucker: There's a small group of LGBT+ parents in the City Hall, they have meetings every Tuesday, it may help going to one of their meetings if you guys have any doubts or difficulty accepting Eryx's sexuality.
Brother Fucker: As I don't think you'd like to repeat what happened with Nicolas.
Brother Fucker: There is quite a lot of STDs that go around young gay men due to the lack of use of preservatives, so that's a good think to help Eryx understand as well.
Brother Fucker: Oh, and the hygiene before and after sex should be something he must know as well.
Seventh Brother: TMI.
Third Brother: Where do you apply for the group?
Brother Fucker: On the website, I'll send to you Ez.
Third Brother: Appreciated.
Sixth Brother: I did a background check on Sevan yesterday when Eryx told me he was interested in him.
Sixth Brother: Sevan Helge, 20, Link Academy second year Architecture student and President of the Students Council, son of Mavis and Harlan Helge, only child and heir to a Construction Company founded by his parents. He's a half-vampire, with his mother being human and his father an elder vampire.
Second Brother: So his father is a predator?
Seventh Brother: The apple doesn't fall far from the tree.
Sixth Brother: No social media, no previous relationships, has stellar grades, being first in every class he took, and graduated high-school with honors. No previous felonies record and no notable relationships apart from his family, I did manage to get a few pictures of him with others from Theodore Langa's social media, but he was always far away and apart from those there is no other record of him interacting with peers.
Seventh Brother: As I said to Eryx, he's a robot motherfucker incapable of feelings.
Fourth Brother: …I just woke up.
Seventh Brother: No shit Milo.
Fourth Brother: I'll talk with Sevan.
Fourth Brother: I have a meeting with him tomorrow morning.
Fourth Brother: He's trustworthy, I asked him to look out for Eryx.
Fourth Brother: Eryx was mad at me this morning.
Fourth Brother: I don't want to get involved any longer.
Levi: Did you cry?
Fourth Brother: …No
Second Brother: He totally did.
Fourth Brother: Luc, Eryx told me you lost your innocence.
Seventh Brother: …
Levi: Well, that is to be expected.
Sixth Brother: I won't even comment on the hypocrisy.
Sixth Brother: Y'll seriously should go out and fuck someone.
Sixth Brother: Stop talking as if our youngest Brother's sex life is truly what we want to be talking about on a weekday afternoon.
Levi: I have sex almost everyday Mael.
Seventh Brother: Must I really stay in this god forsaken chat?
Second Brother: I fucked an hour ago!
Brother Fucker: I can atest that.
Seventh Brother: For fucks sake.
Seventh Brother: For the record, I did not lose my virginity and I do not have any interest in doing so at the moment.
Sixth Brother: Luc, Luc, Luc, lying isn't your forte.
Seventh Brother: I'm not lying Mael.
Sixth Brother: A year ago, September 21st.
Seventh Brother: YOU MOTHERFUCKER SPY.
Fourth Brother: …
Seventh Brother: I have class, I hate you all.
Second Brother: I love you too, baby brother.
Levi: Mael got us way too off topic.
Levi: Who will talk with Eryx?
Sixth Brother: Unfortunately I do think Azrael is better suited than any of us.
Brother Fucker: I am flattered Mael, but I can't possibly intrude in this family moment.
Second Brother: He just said. ''Hell no, y'all are just trying to get me to be hated''.
Brother Fucker: Damn Love, stop selling me out.
Second Brother: Does that mean I owe you to be able to sell you?
Brother Fucker: Of course, you're my owner.
Second Brother: Damn, that's hot.
Sixth Brother: If you guys are next to each other then please talk to each other irl not here ffs.
Sixth Brother: Levi, I am at your company, I need to talk with you.
Levi: I spoke with my secretary, just come up.
First Brother: I'll speak with Eryx.
Sixth Brother: No.
Levi: No.
Third Brother: No.
Fourth Brother: …No.
Seventh Brother: Fuck no.
First Brother: Well, if any of you would like to do so, then be my guest. I have a meeting to attend now.
Seventh Brother: It seems we have struck a nerve.
Levi: Let's just keep an eye on the situation for now and I'll speak with Eryx during the weekend.
Levi: Me and Ezekiel are meeting him soon anyway for a ballet performance.
Sixth Brother: Lemme guess, Gaia?
Third Brother: Thank you Levi, I was dying for everyone to know.
Levi: Oh well.
Sixth Brother: Ha.
Sixth Brother: That fucking bitch.
Sixth Brother: I'm going to rip her heart out.
Third Brother: I would appreciate it if you didn't.
Levi: Let's just respect Ezekiel's choice Mael.
Sixth Brother: Not Eryx's tho?
Levi: …
A loud sigh leaves Levi Algeo's mouth as he turns off his phone and leans back onto the chair of his office. Sure, he knows he's being unreasonable, they all are, Eryx knows how to take care of himself, or at least he must believe he does, or he'll go insane staying here while his baby brother is there all alone.
Drugs, alcohol and thugs for friends, Eryx as a human was a menace, but at the end of the day he was laying on Levi's or their mother's lap and talking about his favorite show just like a child would. It's hard to see him as a grown up. Perhaps they should've stopped him from seeking drugs and dangerous people, but in their eyes, they were puny threats as they were all from a world they could step in and stop at any given moment. Vampires do not fear the same things as humans, yet here he is, shaking his legs, anxiously thinking about his baby brother having sex when he allowed him to do drugs as a minor.
That's simply because Sevan Helge is a vampire, not a human. Levi can't step in and snap his neck if he hurts Eryx. There's nothing he can do unless he accepts losing his life for it.
A faint knock is heard, he mumbles something for the person to enter. And there he is, another one of his younger brothers, one that never worried him, one he doesn't even know their favorite color. The double standard is felt only by one of the two brothers.
''Mael'', Levi says, standing straight, grabbing his phone again, to check if there are any new messages.
From all the brothers, Mael has the longest hair, his hair is even longer than their mother's, usually it is in a bun or a ponytail, but right now his hair is down, the red color they all share is vibrant and matches his pale skin, his red eyes are swollen, and he's wearing a beige sweater, jeans and sneakers, making him look younger than usual. Mael always tried looking older, what made him dress like that is a mystery Levi isn't all that interested in.
Whatever happened between the time he spent with Ezekiel the previous day to this afternoon was enough to make him seek the brother he never was close to. Well, not that Mael was actually close to any of his brothers.
''I have a meeting in half an hour, so just start speaking'', Levi says, slightly impatient. From all eight brothers, he was probably the most serious and well-kept, even if just like Luc said, none of them actually have their life together. Levi gives everyone this false sense of security, simply because he's the only one who solely lives for his company and family. They have the same eyes, but Levi's feel cold while Mael's feel broken.
''Am I not important enough?'' Mael asks, his voice is soft as he walks into the office and sits in one of the chairs in front of Levi. His question makes the older brother roll his eyes. ''I see''.
''Mael, why do you keep trying to make everything about you? You're not a fucking victim.'' Levi says rudely, in a tone he would never speak to his other brothers.
Just like Luc, maybe he felt threatened when Mael was born and stole his position as the youngest brother, yet he doesn't resent the other young brothers. Maybe Mael is just unlovable in his eyes.
There's some secrets Mael would never tell his brothers, not because he was scared, but because he doesn't think they would care as much as they did Eryx or Nicolas.
He's not gay like them, he likes both women and men, however he only had one relationship in his 68 years of age, and it was a five year relationship that started at the Link Academy with one of his colleagues, and that relationship was with a man. It was too long ago for him, so much so that the person he dated is already married to someone else, yet, not a single person in his family knows about it.
Even if they were engaged for a small frame of time.
The reason why they broke off was because of a lack of love by both parties, they were together by pure convenience at that time.
So he broke up with Mael saying he was going to get married to someone he actually loved.
After that Mael spent six months locked up painting his feelings away, so much so that he even ended up at the hospital due to dehydration.
Of course again, none of his brothers know that.
He doesn't know if the whole situation with Eryx just messed with his head, seeing those pictures, those videos of his brother being taken advantage of, made him realize that the same indifference he suffered he was putting his younger brothers through.
Guilt, anger and self-doubt won't erase what happened to Eryx, they're all to blame. Even if the boy himself doesn't blame any of them for not properly caring for him. Things need to change, they can't keep acting like this just because their father is gone. The glue that once held them together is now at the hands of a poor 19 year old boy that never asked to be the safe haven of men centuries old.
''I quit the police'', Mael says, he can't look at Levi.
''Ok'', the other answers.
Mael turns to look at his brother now, he can see the indifference clear in his eyes. Is he truly not loved? He knows Eryx and Luc love him, the boys don't hide such feelings, perhaps exactly because they're young, unbroken. Ezekiel is awkward and shy, but he certainly loves all of his brothers, and Mael already got the confirmation he needed from him the day before.
The fact he needs such affirmation just shows how young he still is.
Even if by human standards he would be old, by vampire standards he barely just became an adult.
''Why do you dislike me?'' Mael asks, his gaze going to the other's phone that is still catching his attention. Only five minutes passed but he acts as if he's entertaining me for hours.
Levi blinks slowly before he answers, as if he was contemplating the answer. ''I don't dislike you Mael''.
''I did this for you'', Mael says, grabbing a crumbled paper from his pocket and giving it to Levi, who opens the paper to stare at the sketch.
It's clear that is an image of a younger Levi, back when he was still starting Parts and Mael was probably still underaged. The sketch shows Levi smiling, his hair is short and he's wearing glasses, his shirt is dirty with paint and even the bags under his eyes are drawn in detail.
Is this from when I helped Dad to paint Mother's office? Levi wonders, surprised by the drawing, the paper doesn't show signs of age, it's just crumpled in weird places, as if it was crumpled so many times the drawing almost became distorted.
''Why are you showing me this?'' Levi asks, he doesn't feel absolutely nothing looking at that sketch, he has no idea why his brother is wasting his time like that.
''That was the last time you said you love me'', Mael says with a sigh, rubbing between his eyes, he hasn't slept in two days. And being there is draining his energy, but he can't move on with his life before confronting all of his brothers. He needs closure, and they will all give it to him, whether they want to or not. ''I don't think you understand Levi, I looked up to you when I was a child, you were my rolemodel. Do you think Eryx and Luc were the only ones that needed someone as a child? Just because Dad wasn't around?'' Mael snorts, he stares at his brother, who's still staring at him coldly. ''Dad wasn't around for me either, even if he was alive''.
''You can't compare your childhood to Eryx and Luc's, they never even had the chance to properly meet Dad, please Mael, you need to stop acting as if you're the only one suffering''. Levi sighs, tossing the paper on his desk.
''Fuck Levi, you're insufurable'', Mael says exasperated. ''I spent years far from home, none of you ever even bothered texting me, did you even know how I was? I could've been dead for fucks sake!'' He can't help but raise his voice.
''Please Mael, you were old enough to take care of yourself.''
Mael closes his eyes, he can't lose control or he'll lose the reason. ''During the ten years I was MIA, I tried killing myself sixteen times, I was beaten up by loan sharks and lost my studio to a fire caused by junkies, Levi, did you ever even know I was engaged at one point?''
Levi's eyes are colder, as if that was even more possible, his expression is one of pure hatred. ''Leave.''
''Ok'', Mael says, what was he even doing there? Of course Levi doesn't give a fuck.
''You disgust me Mael'', Levi says once Mael is almost at the door, as if he was trying to hold it in but cracked at the end. ''Just because Eryx was the center of attention for a moment you had to show off? What? You want an apology? Do you forget I was young as well? I was going through things as well but had to step up to cover for Dad because everyone else was too much of a mess. I practically raised Eryx and Luc. And you what? Got depressed because you weren't showered with love?'' Levi laughs. ''Fuck, you're an obnoxious prick, trying to guilt trip me with a drawing from over fifty years ago and acting as if I had to step up and take care of you as well.'' He gets up from his chair, walking towards his brother. ''Do you know what? I wish you had succeeded then, this way at least I could've pretended that my deceased brother was someone worth thinking about''.
Sharp, crisp and obnoxiously loud, Mael slaps Levi, his hand is heavy, he might not be as strong as Nicolas, but his slap still stings more than the girl's from earlier.
''If that's your wish Levi, then just fucking pretend I died, because I'll will do just that to you'', Mael says, he's fighting hard to keep his tears in. Damn sensitive artists, Levi thinks, touching his cheek, the warmth only makes it sting more. ''Goodbye Levi, from now on, let's pretend to not be related anymore, I truly loved you as my brother, but until the end, you never saw me as someone worth your time or feelings''.
What a joke, Levi thinks as he watches Mael leave, the moment the door closes is as if he snaps back to reality. No, he just realises what he just did, in front of his youngest brothers he always acted as if he's mature and gentle, but his personality isn't like that even by far, he's way more crueler, perhaps because from a young age he tasted success, or maybe being the best of the best in what he does rose to his head. At some point he realized that he became distant to his other brothers, but what he could do? He felt alone as he picked up after his father, cleaning his office, consoling his mother and youngest brothers that were too young to understand death. Then he had to take care of Eryx, since his mother was too out of it, too engrossed in her grief. Levi sometimes felt like he was Eryx's parent more than his parents.
And that messed with his head.
He doesn't regret what he said to Mael, that's how he truly feels, while he was trapped in that house surrounded by grief, Mael ran away, as if he was being chased off, when in actuality Levi needed him the most. Their proximity in age gave them all they needed to be close and help each other, but Levi felt abandoned. Sure, Mael was young, but so was he.
And now what, he should apologize for becoming his brothers parent? For staying behind and out of touch?
''Did he really try to kill himself?'' Levi whispers to himself, sure, that did something to him, that news, as if he was being stabbed, no one wants to hear their brother prefer living such a life than coming home and asking for your help. But even if he did, would Levi have been in the right state of mind to help? No, he wouldn't.
So there's no point. Guilt won't turn the clock, regret won't change his circumstances. All it does is give him a bigger burden, so this is for the best. Mael will eventually come around, he always does. He was always sensitive, crying around and acting as if he was the one suffering the most. At some point he'll need to grow up and realize the world doesn't revolve around him.
When he does, Levi will still be here if he ever wants to come back.
Maybe that's all he can do for Mael, because even if they fight, even if he spews cruel lies, he still loves his brother.
And he will still be here for him when he comes back.
Surely, he won't be kind, that's not in his repertoire.
But he won't go anywhere either.
✦
A pungent smell of alcohol and cigarettes, a damp atmosphere and loud music and voices, at a small corner at a local bar in Iris City a woman hits her empty glass on the table with a frustrated sigh. ''Why do we still get trapped around the fingers of these Algeo men?'' She asks, filling her glass again with the bottle of whiskey on her table. Her friend watched her getting drunk with a serious expression. ''C'mon Gaia, say something'', the woman whines. ''When I told you I was seeing Levi Algeo, you just said 'go for it', you could've warned me!''
The woman pointed as Gaia is gorgeous, her body is lean and almost too skinny, after all she must remain a certain weight to be a proper baillarina, her eyes are clear like a calm river, her lips are fine and her face is sharp, and her long blonde hair is so silky most of her colleagues constantly whisper around out of jealousy, not that she cared for such.
She is the Principal Bailarina of her company and even an international reference, her name is shown in any article about ballet in the last 100 years. And even after so many years, she's still at the peak of her career, perhaps that's why she's all so incredibly bored.
Playing with the feelings of her childhood friend could be mean, maybe, she doesn't really care.
''Well, you wanted to try out an Algeo'', she says simply, her voice is low and she has a strong accent from her hometown down south. ''And I don't think any of them would've slept with you besides Levi'', she continued, sipping on her tequila.
''I think all of them must be heartless'', her friend says again, drinking straight from the bottle, probably already way too drunk to care about the burning feeling of the whiskey. ''How did you date an Algeo for so many fuckin years?'' She stumbles on her words, it's quite surprising she's even still awake.
Gaia stares at her friend, thinking about what she should say. The truth is too boring, and she can't lie too much and get caught on it later. ''Ezekiel is just too hot, you know?'' She says, it's best to be seen as someone that is moved by lust than to say that she enjoys the feeling of dominating a man that could snap her neck if he truly wanted to. The idea of making him grovel at her feet, crying, well, that's what truly turns her on.
And damn, Ezekiel never disappointed.
Except that this time, he seems to be taking his sweet time.
Sure, she was the one that cheated, but what could she do when he was distracted? Thinking too much about his family when he should be thinking about her.
So she kissed and had sex with a few men, waiting for him to catch her, and when he did, well, she made quite the show, and it was extremely entertaining, to act, pretend and watch as he desperately tried to understand what he did wrong.
Just now, thinking about it makes her drip down her thighs.
Fuck I miss him, she thinks, ignoring the fact that her friend finally passed out, she grabs her phone, considering if she should call him or not. It's always more fun when he's the one running after her, and he is supposed to see her perform this weekend… He always bends after I perform, she thinks, it was always something she knew that Ezekiel loved about her, watching her dance always turned him on, and made his eyes shine.
Damn, he is so fucking adorable, she thinks again, opening the gallery of her phone to see the pictures she took of him everytime they had sex, she just couldn't contain herself.
191cm and 100kg of pure muscles, no one would look at him and think adorable, unless they were completely out of their mind.
Perhaps that's why his entire family absolutely despises her.
''Can someone call the garbage truck? They forgot to take part of the trash away'', a voice from behind her stops her merry time. She turns to see one of the people she also hates the most. Nicolas Algeo, well, she was in one of his bars. It's hard to go to a place he doesn't own when he is fucking everywhere, she observes.
''That's some way to describe yourself, Nic dear'', she says, her voice is mellow, as if it's dripping sugar, well, more properly to say dripping venom like the snake she is in Nicolas eyes.
''Fucking bitch, what are you doing in my territory'', he says, his eyes are just as crazy as always. He always made her shiver, as if he was the most dangerous in that deranged family. ''I told you that next time you were here I would break your fucking ankles''.
Gaia laughs, she does enjoy playing with fire, maybe that's why she is the only consistent partner of Ezekiel for the past 200 years, even if they never dated for more than a consecutive year. ''Nic dear, if I can't dance anymore, you think Kiel would ever forgive you?'' She asks, tossing her blonde hair back, she stares at the man, he doesn't flinch, but after years dealing with the Algeos, she knows he is hesitating.
''I should've killed you when you cheated on him the first time'', he mumbles.
''Well, isn't that sweet?'' She laughs again. ''But we both know Kiel loves me too much for you to leave unscathed''.
Nicolas clenches his fist, he was in such a good mood after he had sex with Azrael in his office and later had a call with Eryx, but he should've seen it coming, snakes always lurker when you think you're the safest.
Even if Gaia is certainly hated by Eryx and Mael the most, Nicolas never liked the woman, that's because he recognized the look in her eyes from afar. The eyes of a person dying to break her lover. And Ezekiel was too fucking stupid to recognize her fangs deep into his skin.
He remembers the fight he had with Ezekiel when they first got together after their first break up, but there was no use. The man was set in being with someone that in his eyes loved him despite his flaws.
How could Nicolas convince Ezekiel that he wasn't hideous or a monster just because of a puny scar? Even now, he can't recognize the fact that just like all the other Algeo members, he turns heads everywhere he goes. One minute inside a bar and he would be the one being approached by diverse women. He doesn't need that damn bitch, yet he keeps groveling at her feet.
Dealing with people like her is a common occurrence in any of his business, usually Nicolas would just punch them or get them dragged out and stabbed outside, however it's not like he can do that with his brother's ex. So fucking annoying, he thinks, racking his brain onto how to get her to leave this place and stop pissing him off.
But he doesn't have to, because even before he can say anything someone walks near them and punches Gaia in the gut. "You fucking leech" the angry voice of Mael Algeo never sounded so sweet to Nicolas. He feels relieved, after all Ezekiel would never be mad at his younger brothers.
"That hurt", she mumbles, stumbling back, her hand where he hit her, Nicolas can see her limp slightly, Mael must've not held back in the slightest.
"Good, I fuckin' told ya to never appear in front of me again", Mael says, searching for something inside his pockets. He's wearing a sweater that their mother knitted, Nicolas recognizes it from afar, at first he didn't even look properly at his brother, they're at a badly lit bar after all, but it doesn't take him long to notice the redness and swelling in his eyes. He grabs his brother's arm, ignoring the grunting woman.
"Mael, were you crying?" Nicolas asks, worried.
But the youngest just pulls his arm, turning to the woman, not answering his brother. "Listen up Gaia, I know you think Ezekiel is such an easy target, but if you even think about hurting him again you'll never open your eyes again", then he leans closer to the woman, whispering something in her ear that Nicolas doesn't hear due to the loud music.
Whatever it is makes the woman leave with a desperate expression.
"What did you say to her?" He asks, brimming with curiosity.
"It's a secret", Mael says, putting whatever it was back into his pocket. Sometimes Nicolas doesn't understand why his brothers keep so many secrets, however it's not like he doesn't have his fair share of it. "I'm here to drink", Mael says with a weak smile, he didn't think he would see Nicolas there, it's not like his brother is always at every single one of his business.
Most of the time Nicolas is at the casino since Azrael enjoys gambling.
"Sure, the bartender won't charge you as usual", Nicolas says, but he's unable to stop staring at his brother's swollen eyes. "Will you tell me why you were crying now?"
Mael puts his hands in his pocket, looking down, ashamed. "I fought with Levi".
Nicolas sighs, "Again?"
"He told me I should die so I told him he's not my brother anymore", Mael says, he can't help crying again.
"You both are too extreme all the time", Nicolas says, approaching Mael and giving him small taps on his back. "Don't worry, just talk with him again when you both calm down. You tend to get too sensitive this time of the year".
He's surprised, he didn't think Nicolas would know something about himself that he himself never noticed.
"Do you want to blow off some steam?" Nicolas asks, looking around. "I have some employees today that work at the club as well". The club he's talking about is the brothel he administers. He's basically offering Mael prostitutes, making his face turn red.
"Nicolas, stop offering me prostitutes".
"Sex workers", Nicolas corrects him, "And I'm not offering you them, I have a few employees that asked me about you the last time you were around", he says, putting his arm around his brother's shoulder. "That is if you're over that ex of yours".
"Who?"
"That married Daya guy", Nicolas says, checking his phone that is ringing. "Fuck, this asshole can't work properly even after I feed his shitty mouth with the information?" He mumbles to himself, turning down the call.
"You knew?" Mael asks, surprised.
"Mael, your studio is filled with paintings of his face and body, how couldn't I?" Nicolas laughs.
"You've never been to my studio", Mael points out, but Nicolas simply shrugs. "And it's been… 40 years".
"Yet you still have his number on your phone".
"We're friends, and you seriously invaded my privacy that much?" Mael isn't truly angry.
"I was just worried after you disappeared that time", Nicolas says, his eyes unfocused as he looks around. "Anyway, enjoy your night, and don't worry about Levi, he'll come around, he's weak to his younger brothers".
"He's weak to Luc and Eryx", Mael points out.
Nicolas shakes his head. "You're too blind Mael, and I'm glad you quit the police, you should talk with Azrael so that we can organize an exposition for you in one of his galleries".
"You bought him another gallery?"
"Yeah, two in Iris City and one in Daisy City, he looks so sexy when he's admiring art that I got a bit excited", he smirks making Mael shiver out of disgust.
``I really didn`t need to know that``, he says with a sigh, he exchanges a few more words with Nicolas before he goes off to work, leaving Mael alone at the bar.
Have fun? Should I? Mael thinks as he sits down, he goes a lot to the bars and clubs Nicolas administers, he enjoys a good drink and not needing to pay for them is certainly a plus, back when he was a detective, he would always hear off from his colleagues, but they also were all there the next day. Even if Mael often got drunk and went dancing, he never hooked up with others, perhaps Nicolas was right and he never really got over his ex.
How could he? He was ready to marry that man.
And even if now they're ''friends'', Mael can't help the emptiness when he sees the man with his wife and children, as if he was taunting Mael, saying that he ruined all, that this life next to him could've been his.
''What's going to be for you tonight, Mr. Algeo?'' A smooth voice makes Mael turn his eyes to the bartender. He recognizes the man from the previous times he went there and at the club.
''Aren't you one of Nicolas' strippers?'' He asks, tilting his head, he can't help but remember Nicolas' words from before, saying that some of his employees that worked at the club were interested in him.
The man laughs. ''Yes, I'm surprised you remember me'', he continues, grabbing one of the alcohol bottles as he moves, making a drink.
''It's hard not to when you dance so well'', Mael says, resting his chin on his hand and staring at the bartender.
He's not his type. Mael was always into the studious, serious and boring guys, those that could lecture you if you stayed out late, or that would toss realistic and hurtful words at him just because they care. Oh, perhaps his type is someone just like Levi, he never really thought about it, maybe instead of Daddy or Mommy issues he has a Brother issue. That's disgusting, he thinks taking the drink the bartender gives him, he never said what he wants to drink, but alcohol is alcohol and he doesn't really care right now.
The drink is absurdly sweet, he can't even taste the alcohol, yet he drinks the whole glass at once.
''Did you like it?'' The man asks, now looking closely it's no wonder he's a stripper and a bartender, he looks like a foreigner, his cerulean blue eyes are almond-shaped, his features are striking even if he's not the most good-looking person he ever saw, his hair reaches his ears and are of a prussian blue tone. I think to reach the exact color I should mix a bit of cadmium yellow in his eyes, as it isn't fully blue, I wonder if I can reach the same color as his hair if I only use prussian blue, probably not, he has a bit of titanium white in his hair as well, is it a choice or just genetics? He's probably already drunk if he's thinking about painting a complete stranger.
''Mhm, it tasted nice'', Mael says, his mind is heavy, oh this drink was quite strong, no? Either way he won't be drunk for long anyway. ''What's your name?'' He asks, not exactly sure why.
He never lets his brothers' words get to him, but these past few days he feels more sensitive to it for some reason.
''Ren'', the man answers as he serves another customer, still focused on his conversation with Mael.
''Just Ren?''
''Yes, just Ren'', the man smiles, his teeth have a small tint of yellow. I should remember that when I buy more paint.
''How much do you charge per hour?'' Mael asks, playing with the straw in his second drink. Ren freezes, his eyes show he's surprised. His hands show a lot of veins, I wonder which color would be perfect for it? His skin tone is warmer than Dante's so I don't think I have the exact tone at my studio, maybe if I mix it? I should have some primary colors somewhere, I can use them…
''I'm not one of the Boss' workers'', he says cautiously, he probably misunderstood Mael's question.
''I want to paint you'', Mael says, his words dragging out, he's drunk.
''Paint me?''
''Yeah'', Mael nods, resting his head on the bar counter. ''Your hair is a beautiful tone of blue, and I think I have the right colors for your eyes, but not for your skin…''
''Sir, I think you're drunk'', Ren smiles awkwardly. Oh, I'm making him uncomfortable.
''Shit Mael, I told you to have fun, not get hammered'', Nicolas appears again, sitting next to his brother. ''Ren, go call Jane, your shift is over'', he says to the bartender, who is staring at Mael as if he's feeling guilty for something, eventually he leaves without a word. Nicolas turns to his brother, who's just staring at him, his eyes empty.
''Brother''.
''Yes?''
''Do you think I deserve to be loved?''
''You are loved Mael'', Nicolas answers softly, caressing his brother's hair. ''You just need to love yourself''.
Mael wants to laugh, but he remains silent. ''Can I really let it go? He was the only person that ever said I was beautiful by myself, not because I look like Milo'', a sigh leaves his lips.
Nicolas laughs, ''Mael, you and Milo are completely different, we're brothers, we're bound to look alike, but you're still your own person, and you need to meet other people, eventually you'll find someone that will love you despite your flaws. Zacharie and I were lucky, but it took time, you won't find love today just because you set your mind to it''.
''But I don't like getting heartbroken'', Mael whines. ''It took me 30 years just to be able to look at him without crying!''.
''And that's why you're adorable and lovable, my dear brother'', Nicolas says, smiling. ''Did anyone catch your eye? I can help you, just a small nudge''.
''No, I'm just going to focus on my art'', Mael says, standing up. ''I'm going to draw what I find pretty and live on, be alone for a while''.
''Well, did you find anything you want to draw?''
''That bartender'', Mael says, chewing on the straw now, trying to speak clearly, he's still drunk, when will it pass? ''I want to draw him, but I think he got offended when I asked his hourly rate''.
His brother can't help but laugh again. ''Of course he would be offended Mael, you probably didn't explain it properly! Go home, I'll talk with Ren and explain your intent, he'll probably agree anyway.'' Nicolas continues. ''Just take care of yourself and stop throwing a self-pity party Mael, you're too much of a tortured artist that you forget you have seven brothers that love you''.
Mael wants to argue, but he can't, because he ends up falling asleep there, the moment he finally feels at ease with his brother's warm hands caressing his hair, just like when he was a child.