3.8 Lost and Confused

Exhausted Adam lay down closing his eyes "where were you?" he asked again.

Wordlessly Ambrogio shook his head distracted by another presence "Silver you shouldn't be here."

"He's asking too many questions. Knows too much" Silver intoned "I need more time with the girl before he comes looking for her."

"Why?" Ambrogio asked concerned not liking the implications " they've been through enough.
Bring the girl here. I'm begging you don't do this."

"I'm sorry my love," Silver said turning towards Ambrogio's essence "It has to be this way."

"No it doesn't," Ambrogio pleaded "let me inhabit my body again. Release me from Adam's mind and we can be together again. Start a family of our own." He felt Silver consider his words only to be rejected "now is not the time."

"Please these are our children's children" Ambrogio entreated "don't you care about them?"

Looking at Ambrogio, his eyes softening at Ambrogio's obvious distress "things need to be done. Difficult things. I can't afford to let feelings cloud my judgement. Not even my feelings for you."

Growing desperate Ambrogio followed Silver through the maze of Adam's mind. He threw up road blocks to impede Silvers progress doing everything he could to protect Adam from what Silver was planning to do. He could here laughter emanating in his mind, in Adam's mind as Silver found their situation amusing. "You worry too much my dear. I do not want to harm you or Adam. Just buy myself a little more time."

"Time to do what?" Ambrogio demanded as panic swelled up inside him. How had he been so blind? Why did all the people he became close to betray him? Manipulate him? Used him for their own selfish gain. He had loved his brother once, loved Selene now Silver. All three had hurt him and destroyed his life beyond repair. "Tell me Silver. I have a right to know."

Whirling around Silver buffeted him with rage "you have no right. No right to question me. Without me you would be dead and these descendants would not exist." The stricken look upon Ambrogio's face caused Silver to soften his tone "I am sorry there are things I cannot tell you. Things that are too dangerous for you to know." Reaching out he caressed Ambrogio's mind attempting to soothe him "all I ask is a little more time. All your questions will be answered soon. I will not harm the girl. She will be reunited with her parents. But it's vital I bond with her before that happens."

"No she needs to bond with her parents," Ambrogio protested knowing how vital that connection was in a child.

"I knew you would feel that way. That is why I must do what I'm doing to prevent you from finding me." A sudden blinding light and searing pain lanced through Adam's mind. Both cried out in pain before succumbing to the darkness. Silver look around listening for awareness from the two minds he had essentially shut off. Frowning as the silence lengthened and their minds remained dark. He felt a pang of remorse, sadness and profound loneliness. His heart had leaped in happiness when he had sense Ambrogio's presence in the time bubble. His first instinct had been to join him at the boys prison but he had the girl to think about. Reaching out with his mind he had brushed up against Ambrogio's. He had sensed Adam's mind but had hoped he was too distracted with the others to notice him. He had been wrong. Adam had gathered information that  he given Ambrogio. He knew then he had to keep Adam from searching for more answers even if it also meant silencing Ambrogio too. He had no other choice.

***

Several hours later Don woke up checked on Heath then turned to Adam. As requested He tried to awaken him. Shaking his shoulder Don called his name. Getting no response Don went to get help. "Dad," he called.

Shon turned at the sound of his son's familiar voice "Don?" he cried half in shock and surprise. He raced his side squeezing him tight "I didn't think I'd ever see you again. Where have you been?" Shon asked looking into his son's face like he could hardly believe what he was looking at.

"I'll tell you everything but first I need you to look at Adam. I think somethings wrong with him. He won't wake up," Don turned towards the tent sure his dad would follow.

Following Don into the tent Shon knelt beside Adam checking his pulse, slow but steady. Glancing at Heath he asked "what's wrong with him?"

Don explained how Heath had just given birth and that Adam had given him some of his blood to heal him.

Rubbing his hand across his chin Shon said "Adam could just be drained from giving Heath too much blood. We'll wait and see if he wakes up on his own. Otherwise we'll need to get him to Bridgeport. They're better equipped to handle vampire ailments then regular doctors."

***

The sounds of low moaning had Don turning towards Heath. "Hon how do you feel?" he asked trying to keep his anxiety from his voice.

Blinking Heath stared up into Don's eyes a small smile tugged at the corners of his mouth. "What happened?" his voice barely higher than a whisper.

"You were right. You're dad came for us" Don told him helping him to sit up "he tried to heal heal..." his voice faltered remembering the pain and how close to death Heath had been.

Putting his hands to his stomach Heath frowned. Turning alarmed wild eyes towards Don "where's our baby?"

Shaking his head from side to side Don stammered "I couldn't stop him...I'm sorry..." Don burst into tears unable to go on.

Grabbing his arms desperate for answers Heath screamed "couldn't stop whom? Don tell me what happened to our baby."

"I didn't know what I was doing," Don blubbered "I was so scared I was....I was....." he paused trying to compose himself remembering the helpless frightened feeling he h ad as he held the scalpel to Heath's stomach. How his hands shook as he was preparing to insert the scalpel. "I was about to cut into you when he arrived..."

Watching the tears flow from Don's eyes and down his face Heath reached out and tried to wipe them away "he who?" he asked trying to calm Don down despite his rising anxiety.

"Our mysterious benefactor came. He took over said I was going to kill you" turning desperate pain-filled eyes toward Heath "I'm sorry I didn't know. I couldn't stop him...."

Squeezing Don's forearms demanding "what happened?"

"He he he he took our baby," looking away ashamed of his weakness as he added "I'm sorry I...I...I fainted. All the blood...I didn't mean to. I'm sorry," he looked up as he felt Heath's hands fall from his arms.

"You let some stranger, some person take our baby," Heath said his voice low, harsh, accusatory. "You didn't try to stop him. You just fainted."

"I'm sorry," Don repeated sobbing into his hands rocking himself back and forth in the face of Heath's anger and contempt.

Ignoring Don's dejected, pathetic state Heath asked "where's my dad?"

Reaching out Shon touched the boys shoulder "you're dad is exhausted from giving you his blood to heal  you." Helping Heath over to his dad Shon continued "I know you're upset. I know I would be too if I found out someone took my child but give  him a chance..."

Reaching out Heath ran a hand through his dad's short hair wiling him to wake up. To guide him in what he should do. Looking up at Shon "I don't know what to do. What to believe. How I should feel. I'm so confused."

"So am I. So am I," Shon pulled the boy close feeling him shudder as he lost control and began to sob on his shoulder. He had no idea what had happened to the two boys during their absence How they could have been able to produce a child in only two weeks but Shon was no stranger to the seemingly impossible. He himself was married to an alien hybrid. Holding his free hand out towards Don he felt his son move into his embrace....he had no idea how long he held both boys as they cried on his shoulder and fell asleep in his arms. He laid them out on the floor of the tent before looking down at Adam frowning. He hadn't moved or shown any signs of waking up. He couldn't help but feel his sleep was unnatural.

***

Crawling from the tent Shon informed Percy and Quentin that the boys had been found. He didn't have any idea how Adam had accomplished it but he had no doubt that Ambrogio had been involved. He wasn't going to question it he was just going to be thankful for it. Sitting around the campfire Shon voiced his concern "Adam appears to be in a deep sleep but it feels unnatural to me. Can you sense anything?" he asked turning towards Percy.

Shaking his head Percy tried to connect with is bonded brother but his thoughts kept bouncing back to him. Shaking his head in frustration "I can't reach him. It's like his mind has been blocked."

"Is it like before? When he tried to kill himself. He was able to block you then." Heath asked coming from the tent.

"You shouldn't be up" Shon fussed at him.

"I'm fine," Heath asserted sitting beside Quentin. "I'm more concerned about my dad."

The others nodded in understanding. Percy sighed "this is different. I can't even reach Ambrogio. It's like their minds  have both gone dark...blank ....like their minds have been turned off."

"Could this be a side effect of him healing Heath?" Shon asked groping for answers.

"I doubt it," Quentin spoke up "it should have sent him into a feeding frenzy."

Nodding Heath added "there are several empty plasma packets lying around him in the tent. So he must have fed before falling asleep."

"So whatever happened occurred while he was asleep," Percy said standing up "when dusk comes we need to be ready to leave. He needs medical care we can't give him here. But where are we going to be able to find a doctor who specializes in vampire ailments?"

"Bridgeport" Don said coming up behind them. Heath looked up and away as his cheeks flushed hot. As the other's discussed what needed to be done he stared into the flames. Two weeks. It had only been two weeks. His mind was still trying to adjust to that information. Don had told him everything Adam had told him. He still couldn't believe it. It felt like it had been two years. How could he have fallen in love with Don in two weeks? Had a child in two weeks time? Was anything he experienced, felt, thought during that time been real? Don said he had loved him before being in the time bubble. Not so for Heath. He was only eighteen years old. He had just taken his date (a girl) to the prom. Don was his friend, his best friend. He hadn't even known Don was gay until right before the Watchers had attacked them. 

Standing Heath felt everyone turn to look at him "I'm going to check on my dad," he mumbled shuffling towards the tent. Don moved to follow when Shon silently grabbed his hand shaking his head.

Sitting beside his dad Heath wiped his eyes "I'm so confused. I don't know what to do. What to feel. What to think," looking at his dad's face he pleaded "I need you. I need you now more than ever."

"Hon ...." Don began than broke off as Heath glared at him "sorry. Um they're ready to go. We need to bring Adam out so that they can take the tent down."

Nodding Heath stood aside and watched them pick up his dad, too numb to help. Idly he watched Don noting how tired and sad he looked. A part of him wanted to go to him. To hold him and tell him everything was going to be alright. Another part of him wanted to blame him for everything that had gone wrong. For his confusion and unhappiness. He thought he knew who he was now he was lost and confused. Above everything else he hated himself for not being strong enough to be what Don needed him to be.

***

They had been walking for three hours when Don stumbled falling to his knees. Refusing to be helped Don waved the concerned faces and helping hands away He was determined to not slow them down. Adam needed to be in hospital. He didn't want to cause Heath anymore pain. It seemed whether he meant to or not he was always causing someone pain. His sister hated him. His mother hated him. The love of  his life hated him. All because of his weakness. He was too weak to stop Silver from walking away with their baby. If he was in Heath's position he would hate him too.

Two hours later they stopped to rest. Don stumbled to a tree. Leaning against it trying to catch his breath. His dad came up to him "son are you alright?" he asked in concern "if you're not well we can slow the pace."

"I'm fine," Don mumbled as he sat down upon the ground. Closing his eyes he meant only to rest but was soon fast asleep. The insistent shaking woke him. Looking bleary-eyed into someones face  he asked "Heath?"

"They're ready to go" Heath told him helping him up. Grabbing his arm as he swayed almost falling "are you alright?"

"I'm fine," he said jerking his arm free.

Shrugging Heath let him go feeling he was letting him down somehow. Why was it so difficult for him to understand is his own feelings? A niggling almost painful sensation throbbed through his brain. Wincing he brought his hands up to his temples. Squinting as the pain intensified as he struggled to follow the others. Don who was behind him noted Heath seemed to be having a hard time walking although it could have been just him as he could see straight.

***

"Adam," Ambrogio called out in the silent confines of Adam's mind. Ambrogio had set up a hiding place for them when he realized he couldn't stop Silver. He had commanded Adam's weak and tired mind to hide in it before Silver turned them off. He found it difficult to believe Silver had done this to them, to him. "Adam answer me" he called out again in concern.

"What, what happened?" Adam asked muzzily.

"Silver tried to shut our minds off," Ambrogio told him his voice reflecting the shock and betrayal he'll felt.

"Why?" Adam asked still trying to make sense of what happened.

"You were asking too many questions. Silver didn't like it," Ambrogio hesitated before continuing 

"I'm sorry. I didn't know he had an ulterior motive towards the child. I didn't know he wanted the child as the much as the watchers did. I should have known better, should never have trusted him..." his voice dissolved into tears.

"Ambrogio," Adam called softly "its not your fault. He did everything he could to make you trust him. To love him. There was no reason for you to suspect him."

"I should have known. Everyone I've ever loved has betrayed me, why would he be any different?" Ambrogio cried out feeling more alone than he had ever felt before.

"Snap out of it Ambrogio," Adam demanded "now is not the time to throw yourself a pity party. Silver may or may not have a good reason for what he's doing. We have to figure out how to alert someone on the outside. Get help..."

"I don't know what he did to us," Ambrogio said after attempting to contact Percy "I can't reach anyone. How about you?"

Shaking his head "it feels like my body is dead," Adam muttered "I can't reach anyone either. I should be able to connect with Heath but he's as silent as everyone else. It's like we're being blocked somehow."

"I guess we have to figure out what Silver did to use, reverse it then try again."

"Do you have any idea what he did?" Adam asked devoid of all hope.

"No I'm sorry. I didn't even know Silver could get inside your head led alone turn both of us off. Plus I was a bit busy trying to prevent him from doing anything that I couldn't see what he did. When I realized what he was attempting I set up this hiding spot for us," sighing "I think I may have fallen for his trick and inadvertently trapped us."

***

It was a long four days but they eventually made it to Bridgeport. The vampire specialist refused to treat Adam without giving him a blood transfusion. "He's a vampire he needs blood," the doctor insisted.

"No he doesn't," Heath shouted at him "he's a vegetarian. He's been living off of plasma fruit." He threw a juice packet at the obstinate man "analyze that," he demanded.

Once the lab results came back the doctor grudgingly complied with Heath's wishes and began tests to find out why Adam couldn't wake up. While they ran the tests the doctor insisted they leave. Not wanting to leave his dad or trusting the doctor Heath agreed to leave as long as someone stayed with his dad at all times. The hospital staffs appalling lack of vampire knowledge was frightening and they were supposed to be the experts.

Coming into the house Don was smothered in hugs and kisses from his mom and siblings. The sight made Heath homesick. Excusing himself he called home "Mom..." his voice broke as he heard Beverly break into tears at the sound of his voice. He told her what happened and that Adam was in the hospital. When he disconnected he looked up to find Don staring at him in concern. "She's coming, my mom...." Heath began "dad needs her...if anyone can figure out how to help him she can."

Shoving his hands in his pockets Don nodded "good. Adam needs all the help he can get." Hanging his head he moved towards the door.

"Don," Heath called out unsure what he wanted to say "Please....don't go." He stretched his hand out to him beseeching him to stay.

Taking Heath's hand Don moved close to him "are you alright?" he asked taking his face in the palms of his hands.

Shaking his head as tears began to flow Heath mumbled "hold me."

Without a word Don drew Heath close. Holding him as he cried on his shoulder. Running his fingers through his dark blue hair. "Heath honey I'm sorry. I know this must be difficult for you."

Sniffling Heath nodded his head wrapping his arms tighter around Don. "I'm just so confused. How could so much happen in so little time? Were we manipulated into having feelings for each other? Was any of it real?"

Pushing Heath away from him Don peered into Heath's eyes "I love you," he told him his voice both firm and gentle. "I know what we felt was real. I understand your confusion...."

Lifting his eyes Heath stared back at Don in bewilderment "you do? You're not mad?" Leaning forward Heath sighed as he hugged Don close "I thought you would think I was being weak and silly for having doubts. I felt like I was letting you down disappointing you."

Stroking his face "you could never disappoint me. You're one of the strongest person I know. We'll get through this together. I promise whether or not we're couple in the end."

"Just give me a little time. That's all I ask," Heath said leaning into Don's caress "too many things have happened I...I need time to process it all."

"I know hon," Don kissed him lightly on the forehead "you can have as much time as you need."

"Thank you," Heath said snuggling his head on Don's shoulder "are you alright? You didn't look so great on the walk here."

"I'm fine," Don told  him rubbing Heath's back.

"You're not just saying that, are you?" Heath asked looking up at him in concern "tell me the truth."

"I'm not and I'm fine," Don insisted dropping his eyes unable to hold Heath's piercing gaze. He felt somewhat guilty for not telling Heath about the baby. How could he? It would be just one more thing thrown at him. Another added stress he didn't need or could handle. He'd check with a doctor, make sure everything was ok first. He was tired and a little nauseous but nothing compared with what Heath had experienced. He could handle this on his own. He didn't want to influence Heath's decision in anyway. He'd tell Heath when the time was right.

Heath noticed how Don's eyes shied away from him. He had a feeling Don wasn't telling him everything. There was something he was afraid of telling him. He would lay odds that something had to do with his health. He was sick Heath could tell. He wouldn't stand around and do nothing while another person he loved suffered silence. He couldn't do anything for his dad but he could do something about Don.

3.7 Rescue

"Ambrogio this is taking too much time," Adam complained. "Isn't there another way we can search for these time bubbles?"

"I wish there was...." Ambrogio fell silent contemplating what he should do. There was a way but he wasn't sure if he should try it. Time was running out for them. The longer the boys stayed inside the time bubble the harder it would be to get them out. It had already been almost two weeks since he had put them inside the time bubble. To the boys it would have felt more like two years. They could literally live their entire lives in a span of one year of normal time.

"Why didn't you tell me?" Adam asked picking up on Ambrogio's thoughts.

"I didn't think it would take so long. It's almost as if....."

"As if what?" Adam prompted.

"As if someone was blocking me. Preventing me from finding the precise time bubble...." Groaning Ambrogio continued "I made a horrible mistake by putting the boys in the bubble. I thought they'd be safe but instead I put them in terrible danger...."

"What danger?" Adam asked growing impatient.

"The Watchers must have gained control of the time bubbles. That's the only way the bubbles could have become cloaked. If I had known I would never have put them into one because of me they're in unimaginable danger."

Feeling his anger rising Adam tried to keep a lid on it by asking "what do we do about it now? How do we get them out?"

"How can you be so calm?" Ambrogio asked "if it were my son I'd be furious."

"Would it help if I said I was?" Adam asked his voice rising "Ok I am. Feel better? One of us has to keep our heads. I guess I'm elected. Pull yourself together and tell me how I can rescue my son."

"It'll be dangerous..."

"Do I look like I care?" Adam dismissed his concern as inconsequential.

"Only the most powerful vampires are able to produce enough power to open a portal into a time bubble..." Ambrogio began to explain.

"Will we need to do this tedious process of searching for the right bubble or can I just think about my son and the right portal will open?" Adam asked jumping steps ahead.

"Essentially yes," Ambrogio agreed "you as 'The Chosen One' should have the ability. Combined with my power we should be able to open a portal from inside the bubble to escape."

"What are we waiting?" Adam asked eager to find his son.

"We should wait for daybreak when we're alone. We shouldn't be interrupted when we do this."

"Alright that should be in a couple of hours." Adam agreed telling no one what he and Ambrogio planned to do. It either worked or didn't but he had to try.

***

Meanwhile the boys were spending a quiet evening together. Neither one could look at the other for fear of seeing their failure reflected back at them. They hadn't been able to find a way out and their repeated notes to their mysterious helper went unanswered. Don groped for Heath's hand "I'm sorry."

"So am I" Heath said turning to look at him. Instead of the fear and defeat he expected to find he found love and trust shining through his crystal blue eyes. "I love you."

Don turned pulling Heath into an embrace putting his hand on Heath's swollen stomach feeling the baby move. "I love you more than anything in this world."

Heath tilted his face up to his and Don bent to passionately kiss him. "Are you hungry sweetheart?"

"No" Heath laid his head on Don's shoulder. "Please just hold me." It had become his nightly request. Something to reassure him that he was loved and cherished. Something to still his fears that the end was near. That one way or another they were going to be separated and it was tearing him up inside.

"How long?" Don asked his heart aching as he asked. It felt like he was watching the sands in an hourglass run out. The larger Heath became the faster time ran out.

"Not....long" Heath said as a sharp pain went through him. He didn't mention it knowing it for what it was...the beginning of the end. "Promise me no matter what you'll save the baby."

"Heath please don't make me I...I...can't" Don protested pulling Heath close against him. "Don't ask me to choose between you and the baby. I just can't do it."

Lifting his arm Heath ran his hands through Don's hair "it's ok baby. I understand."

"I'm sorry" Don sniffled as tears ran down his nose.

Jerking awake Don moved towards Heath who was whimpering in pain. "Oh honey why didn't you wake me?"

Heath turned his head and smiled through his pain "I was hoping it would be over before you woke up. I'm sorry I tried to be quiet."

"Hon I don't want you to suffer alone," Don blinked back tears determined to be strong. Heath needed him to be strong.

Heath gripped Don's hand as he screamed in pain. Wiping the sweat from his brow Don whispered words of encouragement and endearments as he watched the most important person in his life suffer. Unable to take Heath's severe pain Don asked "what do I do? Tell me what you need me to do."

Smiling weakly "I...thought...you...couldn't..." he panted.

"I can't just sit and watch you suffer either" Don kissed him before continuing "I'm sorry I didn't realize it would be so bad..."

"Don't...be..." Heath motioned with his hand toward his stomach "cut...along...there..." gasping in pain Heath let his hand drop.

Going outside Don grabbed some pain "Heath honey show me again. Where do I cut?"

Weakly Heath brought his hand up again "along there." His eyes rolled up inside his head as he passed out.

"Heath honey wake up...wake up," Don begged. Through his tears he laid his head on Heath's stomach feeling the baby move. Gripping the scalpel their benefactor had provided them with he reached out to cut along the painted line. "I can't do this" Don muttered as his mind attempted to blank out. "I can't believe I'm going to do this." His hands shook as he took a deep breath steadying himself to perform the operation that needed to be done when an unfamiliar voice stopped him.

"Stop you're doing it wrong," looking up Don saw a man dressed in white and blue. 

"Who are you?" he asked.

"I'm the guy who is going to save your boyfriend and baby" came the cocky reply "stand aside."

"How do I know I can trust you?" Don asked refusing to move.

Shrugging "either way he dies," came the cold reply "why not take a chance. If I'm trustworthy they'll live."

Looking down at Heath he slowly nodded his head. Don handed the scalpel to the man "alright I have nothing else to lose."

"Don't be like that," the man said "the best is yet to come." The man's voice was deep and somewhat reassuring.

"What can I do to help?" Don asked dragging his eyes away from Heath's ashen, blue tinged lips and face.

"Just stay out of my way," the man demanded "this is going to be hard enough without you getting in my way."

Standing aside Don watched as the man sliced into Heath's abdomen wincing as the blood seeped through the incision. Becoming lightheaded as his ears began to ring Don hit the floor before he realized he was passing out.

Looking down Silver muttered "well that's one way of staying put." His hands worked deftly with the crude instruments. He avoided looking at the young man he was cutting on focusing his mind on saving the baby. If he could save both he would but the baby came first. 

Twenty minutes later he lifted a limp infant from Heath. With a sinking heart he knew he had taken too longm the baby was dead. He had failed. Tears welled in his eyes as he gazed into the still features of the little girl that never had a chance to live. There was something, a risk but he couldn't do it here...

Laying the infant down carefully in a towel he turned his attention to the boy. Working swiftly he was half finished closing up his incisions when Rendar and Ton'ga entered the room. Before turning to face them he picked up the infant "you're too late the baby is dead."

"We don't need it now that we have you." Ton'ga smiled moving closer while Rendar guarded the door.

"You don't have me yet," Silver told the woman "such nasty creatures you've become." He waved his free hand towards the two helpless unconscious boys.

"Us? What about you?" Ton'ga replied "you forsook us. Bred with these vile creatures when you could have helped us. You're one of us."

"I'm neither watcher nor creator. I was loved and accepted by no one. Only among humans have I found a welcoming spot." He held the infant to his chest. A soft almost imperceptible stirring of breath tickled his skin. Could it be? No impossible.

"Come with us Silver and we will make a new and better creator" Rendar invited moving from the door.

"Let go of the past," Silver advised "teach your creations how to live peacefully among humans instead of causing them pain and misery. This feud has lasted long enough. The creators have long forgotten about you. I'm trapped here for eternity because of who and what I am."

"You know that's not going to happen," Ton'ga spat at him "we need you to open the door to their realm..."

"Never"

"Why do you resist?" Rendar asked moving closer. "The Creators abandoned you. Why protect them? Join us and get your revenge."

Silver saw his chance and bolted for the door. Jumping from the deck to the ground below. The sound of a baby cry drifted on the still early morning air.

"Did you hear that?" Ton'ga yelled at her mate "that child lives."

"It was your imagination." Rendar told her.

"It was a baby's cry," Ton'ga confronted him "you wanted him to escape. You were supposed to guard the door." Hate filled her yellow eyes "you're working with him. That's why you delayed coming here when I wanted to come earlier."

"Ton'ga it's time you were quiet. You don't know what you are saying." Rendar ordered moving close to  her "I do not work for you or them." He moved swiftly rendering her unconscious. Scanning her brain for the right memories so he could  surgically remove them. Preoccupied with Ton'ga he was unaware of the time distortion as Adam entered the time bubble.

***

"Heath" Adam let out an anguished cry upon seeing his son lying unconscious on the bed, bleeding. 

Rendar stood up blocking his way "what are you doing here?"

Ignoring his question Adam asked "what have you done to my son?"

Shrugging as if Adam's concern was unimportant to him Rendar said "nothing." He smiled seeing his affect on Adam "you should leave before you become too weak."

Wiping blood from his nose Adam said "not without my son."

"Take him, he's of no use to us now," Rendar turned his back to pick up his mate. Turning at the door he said "I suggest you hurry."

Adam ran over to Heath as Don regained consciousness. Sitting up Don scrambled to his feet "oh thank goodness you've found us."

Barely registering that Don was talking Adam's eyes were glued to Heath "who did this?" his anger causing his voice to be rough and ominous.

Taking a step back Don shied away from him as Adam's eyes glowed bright in the semi dark room. 

Stammering Don looked down at Heath "whe....where's the baby?" His eyes growing large with fear as he met Adam's.

Gripping the boys shoulder Adam shook him "what baby? You haven't been here gone long enough to be having babies."

"Ttttwo years," he stammered "Silver came to help. Said he'd....he took our baby," he finished in misery.

Adam was about to speak when Ambrogio broke into his thoughts "you don't have time for this. As soon as Rendar informs the others they will block all exits from here and not even you will be able to get out. We can discuss this later on the other side."

"You're right,"Adam acknowledged turning to pick up Heath he asked "is it true they believe it's been two years?"

"Time passes at a different rate inside the time bubbles. It's very possible it has been two years." Ambrogio told him a hint of regret in his voice.

"They haven't aged any as far as I can tell They still look the same..."

"In real time it's only been two weeks. Their hair and fingernails haven't grown out either. Technically they haven't even aged. They don't belong here. Their bodies haven't adjusted to this time flow yet. That's why the pregnancy was so difficult. The baby is a product of this time and grew faster than Heath's body could adjust to. I'm surprised he survived at all."

"What happens to the baby if it stays in here?" Adam demanded.

"It'll age according to this time flow. A year for every week of normal time."

"But that would mean in a year of our time the child would be over fifty years old. We have to stay and find ...."

"We don't have time," Ambrogio said with urgency. "Heath needs medical attention or he'll die. You can heal him but you won't have the power necessary to open the portal again. You're already weak from coming here, being near the watchers you've become even weaker. Plus there's another concern...."

"What? What concern?" Adam demanded.

"The other boy is pregnant..."

Looking sharply at Don causing him to fidget in place. Adam demanded "how do you know?"

"Concentrate and you'll be able to hear the stirrings of life within him...."

Concentrating Adam expanded his senses and he could hear the faint stirrings of new life beyond the grumblings of internal organs and blood flow. Grimly Adam confirmed "I hear it."

"If you want to avoid another grandchild being born here we have to go now! The Watchers will be back and they want their combined DNA. They will take that child if we remain. There's nothing we can do about the other if it still lives," Ambrogio reasoned.

Making up his mind even though it went against everything he believed in he knew he couldn't let Don suffer the same as Heath had. His grandchild would not live a finite life within this bubble. Walking towards where he had entered the time bubble he concentrated on opening the portal into their time. He could feel his energy draining but he refused to use more power for fear of not having enough left over to heal his son.

***

Staggering out of the portal Adam fell heavily to the ground with Heath in his arms. Checking on his son he found Heath's heartbeat weak and fading, his breathing shallow and diminishing. Don crawled over to him "I'm sorry Mr Van Winkle I did everything I could think of. Heath knew before I did that he might die when the baby was due. He made me promise to do everything I could to save the baby." Turning to Adam "how can I look at him and tell him I let someone take our baby?"

Putting a hand on his shoulder Adam squeezed hard causing the boy to wince in pain. "It wasn't your fault. You couldn't have prevented it."

"I....I....fainted. Fainted when he needed me the most. It's unforgivable. I let him down." Don moved to touch Heath's hand pulling back as if scalded. "He's going to hate me."

"No he won't," Adam told him "how did you feel before you fainted?"

"Lightheaded, dizzy, ringing in my ears..." Don looked up with a questioning look "why?"

"How do you feel now?" Adam demanded.

Shrugging "about the same except I feel sick to my stomach."

"Can you really heal him?" Don asked his attention riveted on Heath.

Adam smiled watching him. He had known there was something special between this boy and his son ever since they were young kids. He wished they could have discovered it for themselves instead of having it thrust upon them. He could only imagine how they must have felt trapped and alone for what felt like years waiting wondering why no one came for them.

"I'm going to try," he told him "opening the portal has almost drained me. I need to rest before trying to heal him. Can you reach inside that bag and give me one of those juice packets?"

Nodding Don did as he was asked. "It's true then that you are a vampire."

"Unfortunately," Adam grimaced "but under the circumstances it's a good thing. I wouldn't have been able to find you or get you out of the time bubble without being one."

Nodding Don stared at Heath tears trickling down his cheeks "I'm confused why it took so long for you to find us." He tried to keep his voice calm but he could hear the bitterness in his voice.

"I'm sorry," Adam gripped his shoulder "I understand that to you it's been two years but for us it's only been two weeks."

"Two weeks?" Don questioned "that can't be right. Heath kept track of the time from the start. I was so sick when we arrived. I wasn't aware of much of anything." He picked up Heath's hand as he spoke "Heath kept me alive. Saved me. I couldn't even do the one thing he asked of me..."

Despite his weariness Adam pulled Don close comforting him "you did all you could do. How were you supposed to prevent Silver from taking the baby? He was stronger more powerful than you. In your condition you did all you could do?"

Pulling away Don stared at Adam "what do you mean 'in my condition'?"

Frowning Adam asked "you don't know do you?"

"Know what?" fear encompassing him Don could feel the panic gripping his heart.

Squeezing his shoulders "calm down Don," Adam told  him "I should have realized you might not know you were pregnant."

"Pregnant?" Don said in a mixture of surprise, anguish and disbelief. "I can't be pregnant. I'm not a halfling. You've got to be wrong."

Grunting "I wish I were. I can hear the baby moving inside you. It's the reason why I decided we had to leave instead of staying to look for Silver and the baby. I couldn't let you suffer the same as Heath." Adam smiled gently at him "that is after all my grandchild."

Holding his stomach Don recalled the dizzy spells, the upset stomachs, the queasiness that never went away. It all started to make sense. "But how?" he asked.

"From what I understand your a descendant of the original halfling, a being that is half Watcher and half Creator," Adam went on to tell Don everything he knew.

Digesting what he had just been told Don nodded a few times before saying "Heath was right. They were after our baby." Adam nodded in agreement. "We'll never be safe, will we?"

"No I'm sorry," Adam shook his head "but the burden isn't yours alone. I'm here to help you which I'm better equipped to do as a vampire than the average aging human male."

"My parents, do they know?" Don asked.

"Your dad is outside resting," Adam assured him "he's here to help you too. Don you and Heath will have all the support and help we an give you. Together we'll succeed." Hugging the distraught young man Adam suggested "get some rest and when you wake we'll start to plan out what we need to do to find  your daughter."

"It was girl?" Don asked missing the frown that flitted across Adam's face. He allowed Adam to fix up a bed on the floor for him to sleep on.

"Ambrogio," Adam called out in  his mind. How did he know the baby was a girl? Where had that knowledge come from? He could only think it came from Ambrogio. Was he in contact with Silver? 

"Ambrogio" he called again with the same results. He had become so accustomed to having Ambrogio inside his head he almost felt empty without his presence. Feeling shaky and weak Adam decided he couldn't wait any longer Heath was fading too fast. Cutting into his wrist he let his blood flow as he had for Percy and Quentin. Reaching for his bag he made sure he had several juice packets at hand. Growing fuzzy and dim witted he became aware of someone shouting at him.

"Adam, Adam you've got to stop," Ambrogio shouted at him. "You're draining yourself."

Lifting his head he fuzzily complied to Ambrogio's persistent commands. "Did it work?" he asked reaching for a juice packet finding it almost to heavy to lift.

"You should have waited," Ambrogio told him.

Lying down Adam sucked on a second juice packet "I called for you but you weren't there." Eyes closing feeling completely drained of power and energy "where were you?" he mumbled before falling into a deep sleep.

3.6 The Promise

Leaning against the railing Don watched Heath while he painted. "How long have we been here?"

Hand stopping in mid stroke Heath replied "about 11 months" continuing painting Heath asked "why?"

Shrugging Don turned towards the city. They could see it but were isolated from it. He had so much pent up energy locked up inside him. He was tired of being locked up unable to do anything to save him or Heath. He felt Heath's arms slide around him "what's the matter babe?" Heath asked.

No matter how many times he heard Heath call him babe it always brought a smile to his lips. Shaking his head Don turned to look into Heath's eyes "nothing," he murmured.

Frowning Heath looked intently at Don's eyes seeing the troubled, haunted look in them "yes there is. Tell me?" he persisted.

Bowing his head down Don looked away from Heath's penetrating gaze. "Nothing that matters at least" he muttered. He turned away towards the cityscape. "I'm tired of being locked up in here. Separated from whatever is out there. I wish we could explore what's out there."

"I know babe," Heath said letting his arms fall to his side. The depression he felt building inside him was also growing inside Don. He could see it in his clear blue eyes "Don I'm sorry. I'm sorry I haven't been able to figure out how to get out of here."

Reaching over Don gripped Heath's hand that was resting on the railing. "That's not what I meant." 

Tearing his gaze away from the scenery he tilted Heath's face  towards  his "I don't expect you t  have the answers. You're just a kid..."

"I'm not a kid," Heath said shoving his hands into his pockets and walking away. Head down the picture of dejection.

"Heath honey don't be like that," Don called after him "I didn't mean anything by that. It's just I'm having a hard enough time wrapping my head around this. I can only imagine how difficult it must be for you."

Stopping Heath allowed Don to wrap his arms round him. He mumbled into Don's shoulder "I'm nineteen."

"What?" Don asked confused.

"I'm nineteen. Today's my birthday," Heath said gazing up int Don's eyes.

"Oh hon I'm sorry I should have known....." he kissed Heath gently murmuring "I'm sorry."

"It's alright I'm the one keeping track of the days not you." Heath swiped at the ever present tears "you must think I'm a cry baby."

"No, no I don't,' Don said gently stroking Heath's face enjoying the scratchy feel of Heath's beard as he ran his fingers along his jaw line. "What can I do to make our birthday memorable?" he asked.

Breathing in Don's scent Heath said "I want....I want you," he blurted turning red.

Don looked at him confusion written on his face "you have me I don't..."his voice faded as he wondered if this was the moment he had been waiting for.

"You said when I was ready," he gave Don a smoldering look in blue eyes "I'm...I'm ready."

"Are you sure?" Don asked "We can wait. We don't have to do this. You have nothing to prove."

"I know and I'm sure." To prove it he brought his mouth down on Don's kissing him with a passion that had been growing inside him for months.

Their passion mounting Don pulled his mouth free "I guess you are ready." Smiling he took Heath by the hand leading him to the bedroom.

***

Several weeks later Heath woke up in the middle of the night. As he lay comfortably in Don's embrace he felt a wave of nausea hit him. Stumbling to his feet he slapped a hand over his mouth as he staggered to the bathroom. Falling to his knees he threw up emptying his stomach contents into the toilet. Laying his head on his arm he laid across the toilet seat to dizzy to move. It wasn't long before another wave of nausea went through him. Heath curled up on the bathroom floor next to the toilet moaning softly.

Don stretched out in the bed reaching for Heath. Finding only empty space Don sat up looking around the silent semi dark room. Throwing the covers back he walked into the bathroom stumbling over Heath as he entered. "Heath? Why are you on the floor?"

Lifting his eyelids required more effort then he cared to admit Heath moaned "Don?" 

Kneeling beside him Don put his hand on Heath's forehead noting it felt clammy but not feverish. 

"What's wrong hon?"

"I don't know," Heath panted closing his eyes as a felt another wave of nausea "I'm going to be sick," he said struggling to his knees. With Don's assistance he was able to make it to the toilet instead of throwing up on the floor. He had thrown up so much that it was mostly dry heaves that left him feeling weak and wretched.

"How long have you been like this?" Don wanted to know as he picked Heath up and carried him to the bed.

Shivering under the covers "don't don't know. Woke up like this. Haven't left the bathroom since."

Sitting on the edge of the bed Don ran his fingers through Heath's hair enjoying the feeling of the soft silky strands flowing through his fingers. "Honey why didn't you tell me you were sick?"

"Didn't want to disturb you," Heath squeezed his eyes shut clamping his mouth shut tight.

"Are you feeling sick?" Don asked watching Heath intently as he nodded his head. Lifting him up Don carried him to the bathroom where he immediately threw up again. Don brought him back to the bed. "Are you sick to your stomach or are you dizzy too?"

"Dizzy," Heath said lying still on the bed afraid to move. Eyes clenched shut "everything keeps spinning round and round. It's better if my eyes are closed."

"But you're still dizzy with your eyes shut?"

Heath began to nod then thought better of it "yes" he moaned. "What's wrong with me?"

"I don't know," he squeezed Heath's hand before standing up "I'll be right back."

"Where are you going?" Heath cried plaintively from the bed.

Walking back the bed Don sat on the edge "it's alright sweetie I'll be right back. I'm going to get you a bowl or something to throw up in so that I don't have to carry you to the bathroom every time your sick." Don explained getting. As we walked to the door there was no complaint as he left.

***

Shaking his head Don realized their roles had switched. He was now in the position of caretaker for the ill. It was a scary overwhelming feeling of responsibility that left him feeling helpless unable to do anything to ease Heath's suffering. Coming back into the room he found Heath where he had left him. Lying flat on the bed fists clenched tight into the folds of the sheets. "Feeling sick? Don asked handing the bucket over to him.

Grabbing it Heath heaved producing very little. When he finished he leaned back wiping his mouth with the back of his hand. Shaking his head as Don tried to get him to drink some water. "I'll just throw up."

"Drink it," Don commanded "you'll get dehydrated if you don't." He held the water up to Heath's lips "drink it slow. One swallow at a time," he instructed.

Relenting Heath took a swallow then another. No sooner had he swallowed the second one he was reaching for the bucket. Closing his eyes he mumbled "I told you I'd throw it up."

It was a long day as Heath continue to throw up everything Don managed to get him to eat or drink. Don didn't dare leave for any length of time for fear Heath might need him. When he lay beside him that night Heath complained that his movements made him dizzy. Sighing Don grabbed his pillow and a blanket and laid on the floor.

After three days where Heath made very little improvement Don was beginning to wonder if something wasn't seriously wrong with him. Heath couldn't keep anything down and the rare moments Heath was alert and aware he complained of constant nausea and dizziness. Coming into the kitchen Don found a note in a familiar handwriting. The same handwriting as the note that warned them they were being watched.

Don almost wished their watchers would come and tell him what was wrong with Heath. At the same time the thought scared him. Would they separate them? Would they take Heath and leave him all alone here? Reading the note Don smiled. It was a list of what looked like home remedies for easing nausea. Deciding he had nothing to lose in trying them he threw some bread into a toaster. When the toast was done he crumbled it up and added the toast to a bowl of warm milk. Going up stairs he found Heath staring at him "are you feeling better?" he asked hopefully.

"No," he mouthed as he retched into the bucket. Lying back he eyed Don as he set the bowl down 

"what's that?"

"Warm milk and toast," Don told him grinning as Heath gave  him a disgusted look.

"I'm not eating that," Heath protested.

"I'm told it's good for nausea," Don said spooning up a small portion and holding it out to Heath. "I received a note from our little helper," he explained "let's see if it works shall we? If not there's other things listed we could try."

Wrinkling his nose in disgust Heath allowed Don to spoon it into his mouth. The texture was disgusting but he swallowed in despite his gag reflex. To their combined astonishment Heath kept it down and after five minutes had passed without him throwing up they tried another spoonful. They kept this up until Heath fell asleep. Gathering the remnants Don went to wash the dishes. 

As he washed up Don reflected on the other part of the note that he hadn't mentioned to Heath. It was to preposterous but in an odd sort of way made sense. If it were true how would they manage without medical advice? Taking the note out of his pocket Don re-read it. Towards the bottom it read "your boyfriend is pregnant and experiencing severe morning sickness." Morning sickness really? More like all day sickness Don thought. They weren't ready for a baby. It was just impossible wasn't? Making up his mind Don folded the note and stuck it in his pocket. He'd mention it to Heath when he was feeling better. They'd have a good laugh. Their helper if you could call him that must have their genders mixed up. Men simply couldn't have babies.

***

A couple of days passed with gradual improvements in the nausea department. Waking early one morning Don squinted up into the beaming face of Heath looking down at him. "Morning sunshine," he mumbled sitting up "are you feeling better?" he asked.

Nodding in response Heath jumped out of bed. Grabbing the wall as he turned a sickly white. Seeing him Don rushed to his side "what's wrong?"

"Dizzy," he muttered clamping his mouth shut as a wave of nausea overtook him. Heath felt Don guide him to the bed forcing him to sit. "I'm sorry..." he swallowed convulsively "I thought I was better."

Don watched over him until he was sure Heath was alright and he regained his normal complexion instead of the chalky pale one he had. "Heath there's something else the note said..."

Turning his head to face him Heath asked "what?"

"It's ridiculous really," Don chuckled "these people must be confused as to what gender we are because there's no way...."

Frowning Heath asked "no way for what? Babe just tell me what the note said."

Shaking his head looking sheepish Don said "the note said you were pregnant. Isn't that a laugh?" Don watched as Heath fell silent and worry etched it's way onto his face and eyes "it's ridiculous isn't?" he asked his voice rising. 

"Oh no, no, no," Heath repeated as if he said it enough it would be true. Turning on his side Heath buried his face in his pillow. His shoulders shaking in rhythm to his sobs.

Touching his shoulder Don asked "Heath what's wrong? It isn't possible is it? You can't be pregnant..." As Heath continued to sob Don felt panic welling up inside him "Heath honey tell me your not pregnant."

Sniffling Heath reached for Don's hand as he sat beside him "I wish I could," Heath mumbled "but I can't. I should have known. I....I....forgot," his voice dissolved into tears.

"You forgot what?" Don asked running his fingers through Heath's hair seeking to soothe, to encourage, to calm. "Whatever it is you can trust me."

"I know," Heath turned tear reddened eyes towards Don "I'm a halfling. I was born with the ability to have babies with either gender. We become whatever is necessary to accommodate who ever we're with. We didn't know any of this until Chase told us. I'm sorry....with being here I forgot."

"So you are pregnant," Don stated pulling his hands away from Heath. Standing abruptly he walked outside too stunned to see how it effected Heath.

"Don I'm sorry. I didn't think...." Heath covered his face with his hands and began to sob, deep wracking sobs that echoed through the room.

Outside Don stared out across the cityscape mindless of the turmoil he left Heath in. Staring blankly ahead, his mind screaming a single work pregnant. How could this be happening? Heath should have told him. Should have warned him. They couldn't have a child now. Not in this place. Falling his his knees he cried out in anguish. It was so unfair. If it were any place else but here he'd be happy to find out he was going to be a dad. How could  he be happy now? In this place? Under these circumstances?

Lifting his head from his knees Don noted the sun was going down. He must have cried for several hours without comprehending the passage of time. Wiping his eyes with the backs of his hands he took several deep breaths. Looking up into the darkening skies he wondered what they were going to do. They....we....oh god Heath. Don's mind screamed at him. He forgot all about Heath. He vaguely recalled Heath sobbing as he walked out the door. He left him alone all day to think god knows what. Scrambling to his feet Don entered the darkened room. "Heath honey I'm sorry," Don said softly sitting beside him on the bed. Reaching out he touched Heath's hair only to have Heath jerk from his touch. "Heath I'm sorry..."

Turning to face away from Don on the bed Heath wiped tears from his eyes. The moment Don walked out the door Heath knew Don didn't love him. He just walked out when he needed him the most. "Go away," he muttered into the dark.

"Honey I know I messed up and I'm sorry," Don said placing a hand on Heath's shoulder only to have it fall to his side as Heath shrugged his hand off.

"You don't love me," Heath tearfully accused " you just walked out. Left me when I ... when I...."

Laying down beside him Don put his arms firmly around him "I know and I'm sorry. I was confused, hurt, mad...."

"Mad? Why?" Heath asked "I didn't do this on purpose..."

Squeezing him tight Don said "I know hon and I'm sorry. I over reacted. I didn't think it was a concern we had to worry about. If I had known we could have done things differently. Please forgive me. I acted horribly I know. Please give me another chance."

"Do you really want one?" Heath's voice came out small almost fearful.

"Of course I do," he leaned down and kissed Heath's neck, his chin finishing at his mouth.

Snuggling into his arms Heath sighed "I'm scared."

"So am I," Don reciprocated "having a baby was going to be tough enough under normal circumstances but now..."

"What are we going to do?" Heath cried "Uncle Kyle had to be hospitalized for a c-section. What if we're still here when the baby comes? How is it going to come out? We don't have any medical knowledge. One or both of us aren't going to make it."

Don held Heath tight as he sobbed on his chest. He felt his heart constrict at the thought of losing Heath. He hadn't thought of the complications. It felt as if Heath had been given a death sentence and he helped do it. They fell asleep too exhausted from their emotional trauma to be aware of the two figures that entered into the room.

***

"The plan is proceeding as scheduled " Ton'ga stated in a self-satisfied voice.

"It would seem so," Rendar rubbed his chin deep in thought "the halfling is pregnant."

"Isn't that a good thing?" Ton'ga asked staring at her partner.

"It is but the pregnancy is proving difficult. We may lose the halfling in the process."

Shrugging Ton'ga stared down a the two sleeping boys "does it matter? We only need one with their combined DNA."

"True but we wouldn't get another chance at getting the right gene naturally," Rendar stated.

"It's a risk," Ton'ga stated "but we were never going to let these creatures go. At least not alive, were we?"

"No we weren't" Rendar looked down at the boys "but we can't let the halfling die before the baby arrives."

Smiling with anticipation "I'll secure them so we can scan the halfling," Ton'ga said.

Opening his eyes as he felt hands roughly grabbing him Don tried to struggle, to break free. "This one is a fighter," Rendar commented while his mate struggled to secure him.

"It would have been better for him if he had remained weak" Ton'ga retorted blasting him with her stunner. Securing his limp body she moved to Heath who had barely moved "the halfling appears to be ill, " she noted "will we be able to save it?"

"We shall see" Rendar stated operating his scanner. Making adjustments he instructed "remove the halflings clothing so I can repair it."

Tears running down his cheeks Heath could do nothing to prevent the humiliation he felt as the female stripped him of his clothes. He could do nothing as the male operated on him. He could only wonder if this was how his dad felt like when he had been abducted by aliens, experimented on.... That was how Irissa came to be. Tears trickled down his nose as he wondered if he would be around when his child came into the world. Would he die as his baby was born? Who were these creatures and why were they so interested in his child? Had they been here before? Was one of them their mysterious benefactor? Turning he looked over at Don "what have you done to him?" he struggled to form the words noting the thin trickle of blood that ran from Don's nose.

"Calm down halfling," the male ordered "he is fine and of no further use to us." Heath struggled to free himself until the male threatened "either calm down or I will have Ton'ga neutralize him so that he ceases to be a source of agitation."

Fixing his eyes on the male he quieted his struggles and simply lay still. "What are you doing to me?" he asked after several minutes of silence had passed between them.

"Ensuring the health of the fetus," nodding Rendar closed his operation and turned to Ton'ga "release the other. We are finished here."

***

Heath lay limply where they left him. Growing cold but lacking the strength to either find his clothes or put the on. "What happened?" Don asked groaning beside him.

"I think we had a visit from our jailers," Heath muttered.

Sitting up Don looked over at Heath "what did they do to you?" he asked taking Heath into his arms.

"I don't know. They just took my clothes and operated on me....I don't know what they did." He dissolved into tears as Don pulled in close.

"You're freezing," he muttered.

"Don we've got to figure out how to get out of here," Heath said leaning his head on Don's shoulder "they know about the baby. That's what they wanted all along. They only reason we're here. They want our baby. Don promise me you won't let them take our baby."

"I promise I'll do whatever I can," Don told him feeling as if the death sentence had encompassed him too.. When the baby arrived it would be the end for both of them. They had to find a way out before then.