Spoiler
“Do you ever think about getting revenge on the people that hurt you”? Adonis looked up from his phone and looked at Nero. His long red hair was like a cloak covering his skinny body, as he sat on the floor, hugging his legs to his knees. “Sometimes”, said Adonis. “I try not to dwell on the past too much. It makes it hard to move on”.
Adonis got up from the hard wooden floor, and strode over to the closet. He made it there in a few steps, with his long legs and big feet that shook the floor in confidence. Everything he did, he did with purpose and power.
Adonis took out a blanket from the closet and draped it over Nero. He knew Nero got like this sometimes. He would shrink inside himself, and hide inside the deepest parts of his mind. Adonis set the kettle and in a few minutes came back with some tea. It was Nero’s favorite flavor: raspberry. Adonis didn’t like it. The color reminded him of water mixed with blood.
“Thanks”, muttered Nero, as he sipped from his tea. One of the few foods he would drink, or eat, for whatever strange reason. Adonis had taken him in nearly two years ago. Over time he realized that he could only push Nero so much until he would fight back. So he learned to push a little at a time, so slowly that he wouldn’t notice that his comfort zone was expanding. Adonis also knew that asking him what was wrong would never get him an answer, he had to wait for Nero to tell him first.
After a few minutes, Adonis finally got the answer to the question he never asked.
“Today at work I was stuck with that guy again, Monty. He *censored*ing sucks”. Adonis couldn’t help but laugh. Every time Nero worked a shift with Monty he would always have something to say. He had never enjoyed the misery of someone else’s life until Monty started working at the convenience store with Nero. “It’s not funny! Every day I have to cover his ass! Today he put all the new stuff in the front. You’re supposed to cycle all the old stuff to the front! Even new hires know that!” Nero groaned. “And the worst part is, today he asked me out on a date.”
Adonis laughed so hard the green tea he was drinking started coming out of his nose. “ It is so hard to hate people who are oblivious, but Monty makes it so easy.” “ Did you turn him down”, asked Adonis. “Of course I did”, replied Nero. “Then he spent the rest of the day *censored*ing everything up cuz he couldn’t focus!” “Oh stop”, said Adonis. He grinned. “I’m starting to feel sorry for the guy. You better have been easy on him when you rejected him. Monty may be stupid, but he’s got feelings too”.
Nero pouted. “ I told him to eat *censored*”. Adonis laughed so hard he got a cramp.
Adonis turned to him and said “ What’s all this got to do with revenge?” Nero looked to the ground. Adonis felt guilty. He broke the rule of pushing him too hard without realizing it. But Nero told him on his own.
“Just… sometimes I get angry. I think about all the people who hurt me, and they are doing great. But I’m not. It sucks”. Adonis couldn’t really argue that. Nero had come far since he first met him, that fateful day on the bridge, but they weren’t doing so well as of late.
The rent was late for the 2nd month in a row. They probably wouldn’t be able to pay for it next month either, as Nero his 2nd part time job a few months ago. Adonis couldn’t get a job easily because he was a felon. He made some money selling his...product at clubs, but he was new to the business, and he didn’t make a lot of selling as it is. The only furniture they had was an old mattress someone threw out on the street. It was Nero’s bed.
“Don’t worry”, said Adonis. “Tomorrow will be better. It’s your birthday, after all”. Adonis hugged him close. “One day it will be better. I promise”. Nero pouted. Adonis hugged him tighter until he got upset. “Why.. do you..do that”... Nero said, through labored breaths.
“Stronger hugs means more love”.
“*censored* you”.
Adonis let him go, as he could see Nero wasn’t very receptive to strong love.
“Tomorrow you can come with me to a… work event. Its kind of a work thing, its a party”, said Adonis. “My boss is also having a birthday party. I know we can’t afford to do anything for your birthday, but it makes no sense staying in all night. It’s going to be huge. Think of it as your own birthday party”. Nero jumped up and rushed to the bedroom. “ I can’t wait! Its been too long since we’ve done anything fun”. As Nero was looking for something presentable in his closet, Adonis entered. “Just be careful at this party. Its a dangerous crowd.”
“You act like my dad all the time”, said Nero. “Tomorrow I’ll officially be an adult anyway, old man, so I’ll be fine.” Adonis immediately regretted inviting him to the party. Adonis was 5 years older than Nero. Even though it wasn’t a huge gap, he had grown up a lot faster than most. He felt more like Nero’s father sometimes than a friend. Adonis had no choice but to go anyway. The leader of his group invited him to the party because he thought it would be a great chance to move product to other towns through all the generals that would be at the party. And the rent was always due.
“Is the party during the day, or night”, asked Nero. He pulled out the only jacket that didn’t have any holes. “I will take any excuse I can to get off work.” “ It’s at night. You’re going to work”, said Adonis. “We’re already behind on the rent, and you can’t find another job as it is”. Nero flinched. Adonis knew he couldn’t read. Why would he hurt him like this?
“Sorry, that came out wrong.”
“Its okay”.
Adonis left the room and sighed. He took off his shirt and unfurled his wings as he sat cross legged on the floor. Sunlight streamed through the living room window, as Paradis’ eternal sunset graced his dark skin. Adonis always wondered, how for a planet called Paradis, how could so many live such horrible lives. It was tiring putting on a brave face every day for Nero. But he knew the alternative was no better. One of them had to be strong.
Maybe tomorrow would be better. He would make lots of money and buy Nero a proper birthday present. And maybe, finally, a couch to sit on.
wo
The alarm on Nero’s phone went off. It was 4:30 AM. Time for work. He rolled off the mattress and onto the floor. The shock of the cold floor was the best thing to wake him up in the morning.
Nero hated waking up so early for work. His shift started at 7 AM, deep into the city. But the nearest bus stop was far, so he had to wake up early. Today was his 18th birthday, so it was easier for him to wake up this morning. He hated the morning walk, but today felt different. Today was a day for only good things.
After a quick shower, Nero changed into his uniform. Since today was his birthday he decided to treat himself with breakfast. At least he wouldn’t have to lie and say he ate breakfast to Adonis. Adonis probably knew anyway that he was always lying about eating breakfast, but it was one of the many things he let Nero do because it wasn’t worth the energy to fight anymore.
Even though he was eating breakfast today, he wasn’t going overboard. He found an apple in the cupboard and left for the bus stop.
Nero hated Paradis’ eternal sunset. It always shone in his eyes as he made his way to the bus stop. The two suns that circled the planet made it hard for him to sleep when he first arrived, eight years ago. He never felt like it was night time. Whenever he mentioned to coworkers he was an immigrant, they would always ask him about night. They said the word night, with a tone of reverence.
Once every a thousand years the planet of Paradis would go a little farther outside of its orbit it shared between the two suns. It would circle only one star for roughly a week. On the last day, it would be complete and total darkness. That day was approaching soon. Two years from now, the entire planet would hold ceremonies, parades, concerts, to celebrate the once in a lifetime event. As the day approached even closer, the questions about night time were asked more and more often by friends, coworkers, and even strangers, once they realized he wasn’t from Paradis.
After his 30 minute walk, he finally arrived at the bus stop. Sitting at the bench was Mrs. Fuentes. Just like Nero, she was an immigrant to Paradis. She had long silver hair, put into a long beautiful fishtail braid. Many wrinkles lined her face, but she still made an effort to look her best. Her nails were always done, and she used the same perfume. She wore neatly pressed outfits, always color coordinated, always perfect. She took pride in her job as the receptionist at Triangle Corporation.
Nero loved Mrs.Fuentes.
“Buenos dias, hijo”, said Mrs. Fuentes. “How are you?” Mrs. Fuentes spoke a strange language that no one had heard of. It didn’t even translate through the auto chips everyone had implanted near their cochellas. She loved to teach Nero new words. She always said “Spanish may be dead on my home planet, but it will live on if it continues its legacy through you.”
Nero hugged Mrs.Fuentes. “I’m good”, he said. “Today is my birthday, and I’m going to a party”. “Oh, good for you dear,” she said. “Feliz cumpleanos”. Mrs. Fuentes searched through her purse and brought out a small box, small enough to fit into one’s palm. It had a miniature bow on top. “I remembered it was your birthday. I got you this”. Nero was shaken up. It had been so long since he had something new.
“Don’t be shy, open it up”, said Mrs. Fuentes. “I think you’ll like it”. Nero opened the small box and inside he saw a pentagram pendant. “How… did you know…”, asked Nero. “I remember one day when I came to the bench after you, a very rare day indeed”, said Mrs.Fuentes. “ I heard you praying at the stop, but it was to some woman”, continued Mrs. Fuentes. “I didn’t want to pry into one’s religion. It's unbecoming of oneself”, she huffed. “But I searched her name online. I found out your people like to wear these things, these stars. So I got one for you.”
Nero’s finger’s fumbled to unlock the clasp, but Mrs.Fuentes helped him unclasp it. She put it on him and smiled. “I was worried you would find it too girly, but then I realized you probably like that sort of thing. You always wear that pink rabbit watch and keep your hair long”. Nero blushed. “Thank you Mrs. Fuentes”, he said.
Heavy tears rolled down his face. “ No, no, no tears”, she said. “Today is your birthday, only smiles”. “I’m not sad”, he said through heavy sobs. “I just never thought I would have something like this again.” Mrs.Fuentes placed her hand on his shoulder. “You never thought you would have another necklace”, she asked. “No”, replied Nero. “A piece of home”.
Suddenly a loud popping noise could be heard. The bus was here. The bus soared through the sky and landed at the bus stop. The city never wanted to invest in anything outside of tourism, so all the buses outside the main part of town were old. They got onto the bus, for their ride into the heart of the city.
The only upside to the hour long bus ride was that Nero could listen to his books on his phone, and that the bus stop was across the street from his job. The bus exited the hyperway, and landed at his destination. Nero put on his backpack, and exited the bus. “Thank you sir”, said Nero as he got off at his stop.
Instinctively he checked the time on his rabbit watch, but then remembered that it was broken. He rolled his eyes in exasperation, then checked his phone for the time. He was 20 minutes early for work, as he was every day.
Inside the break room Nero hung up his orange backpack, and tied up his hair. He hated tying up his hair in a bun. It showed off the old tattoo on the back of his neck. It made him embarrassed, but it was a small price to pay for steady employment.
Monty walked into the break room, and Nero froze. He actually felt kind of bad for Monty yesterday, after he was so mean to him. Adonis was right. Everyone had feelings. Nero was also a little more forgiving since it was his birthday. He was an adult, which meant no more fights at work. Time to be mature.
“Good morning Monty”, said Nero. He smiled. “Today’s my birthday. Look what I got.” Nero showed off his necklace with pride. “Oh, thats nice”, said Monty. He walked over to the employee lockers and put his stuff inside. Monty didn’t seem one for conversation like he usually did.
Nero tapped Monty on his shoulder. “What do you want”, he snapped. “I- I’m sorry”, said Nero. “I was a little harsh to you yesterday. It wasn’t right for me to hurt your feelings when you confessed to me.” Monty’s face turned from one of anger to hope. He held Nero’s hand. “Does that mean you’ll change your mind”, said Monty. “ Do you still want to go on a date with me?”
“Sorry, I can’t”, said Nero. “But maybe we could hang out, after work, just as friends”. He pulled his hand away. The face of hope quickly turned back to anger. “Why”, yelled Monty. “Why are you leading me on like this?” “I’m not leading you on, I-” “Yes you are”, said Monty. He grabbed Nero’s wrist. “Promising we can hang out after work but just as friends? Flashing that silly necklace in front of me? Did your boyfriend give that to you? You’re just trying to make me jealous!”
He swung Nero into the lockers and held him against them. It wasn’t very hard to hold him down, Nero didn’t weigh much, and he was plenty afraid of Monty.
Monty leaned in and breathed hard into his ear. “Don’t worry about it”, he said. “If you’re trying to make me jealous, it's working”.
He stuck his tongue down Nero’s throat in a desperate attempt at kissing. Nero froze up. His body went stiff and he shut his eyes. Monty shoved his left hand down Nero’s pants while gripping his wrist tighter with the right. Nero relaxed and just imagined he was somewhere else, like he always did, when this happened. “You’re so cute,” said Monty. “I’m going to make you leave that guy of yours”.
Suddenly the door opened, and Tana walked in. She was the manager from the overnight shift, whom Monty was supposed to replace. She froze when she realized what was happening. Tana covered her eyes. “Guys…. Please do that at home”, she said.
Nero was upset. She thought that he would willingly do this sort of thing at work? “Sorry about that”, said Monty. I just couldn’t wait until tonight. He leaned separated from Nero, and smiled his customer service, *censored* eating smile.
“ I know you guys are dating, but don’t you think this is a bit much”, said Tana. “Stay professional at work”. “Dating”, asked Nero. “Since when were we dating”? Heat rose up his face. He couldn’t tell if it was out of embarrassment, anger, fear, or all three. “You don’t have to stay in the closet dear”, said Tana. “This isn’t the Stone Ages. Monty told me all about your relationship a month ago.”
Suddenly the room began to spin. Nero felt like he couldn't breathe. This isn’t good, he thought. I’m having another episode again. “I’m going”, he said. “I can’t do this.” Nero grabbed his bag and ran out the store without hearing what his manager had to say. He ran, and ran, and ran until he reached Silver Beach.
Like a true city dweller, Nero kept his swimsuit and sunscreen in his backpack at all times. 90% of Paradis was water, and swimming was the same as breathing to those that lived there. Especially since some inhabitants could breathe underwater as well. Nero knew he couldn’t go back to work, so he decided to enjoy his birthday. No one was going to take that from him, no matter how hard they tried.
Nero emerged from the public restroom wearing his favorite trunks, bright red to match his hair. He walked down the boardwalk and tried to forget the morning. Working girls littered Silver Beach, trying to get customers for the day. Tourists were easy pickings, many of them who travelled to experience this specific part of the authentic Paradis experience. Nero sighed. He figured today was his last day of work, and soon he would have no choice to go back to his first job, joining the other girls on the boardwalk.
He rubbed the tattoo on his neck. It was a bad habit he had ever since he first got it. It was a beautiful rose covered in a vine with thorns. But he had it for so long it faded on the back of his neck.Nero got a dollar popsicle from one of the stands, and found a spot on the shore. He remembered the day that Adonis found him. It was at the bridge near Silver Beach.
Nero felt hot and dizzy. The skirt he was wearing was ripped at the edges, and he couldn’t find his underpants. Instinctually he checked his purse, and the money was still there. His last customer wasn’t kind to him, and didn’t pay either, but at least his days earnings were still there.
He leaned on the hot brick wall in the alley behind a hotel. Nero tried to keep it in, but he couldn’t. He threw up, but not much came out except for the wine he had at the hotel room. He was angry at his customer for not paying, but he was more angry with himself for not being careful. The wine bottle was already opened when he entered the room. Little mistakes like that have cost people their lives, he was lucky this time around.
He made his way down the street, towards the bridge. The hot sun beatdown on him and it made him feel even more sick. Nero needed to make his way towards the south side of town. The hotels there were cheap and he had enough money for at least a night. He could sleep off whatever it was that guy slipped him.
After what felt like an eternity, he made his way to the bridge overpassing the hyperway. The rusty chain link fence helped him balance his body as he walked across the bridge. Suddenly Nero felt like he was falling, he braced himself to hit the concrete but instead, he fell the other way, over the bridge. The fence had given way. Nero froze and shut his eyes, the only way he knew how to defend himself. He waited to feel the pain but it never came.
He opened his eyes and looked at a man. He was large, and was carrying Nero as they soared through the sky. He had dark skin, sandy blonde hair, and golden eyes. His large brown wings flapped through the sky. Even though it was the middle of summer, he was wearing a mask over the bottom half of his face. Nero looked down and saw the city below. He gripped onto the man tighter, confused. He passed out.
Nero awoke in a foreign room, on the floor. A blanket covered his body, and in the corner someone had taken the time to take off his shoes and place them there. He could hear a kettle coming from the kitchen. Groggily he sat up and scanned his surroundings. He needed to find a quick way out, in case it was just another repeat of the hotel.
Some noises came from the kitchen, and the tan man entered the room.
“Oh, you’re awake”, he said. “I made some tea for you. Are you okay? Do you want to go to the hospital?” Nero held the blanket close to his body. “Why didn’t you take me to the hospital”, he asked. “I didn’t want you to get into trouble. You’re a street girl yeah? You look a little young”. “I’m old enough”, he retorted. “If you say so”, the stranger said. Nero knew from the look on his face that he didn’t believe him. “What's your name miss? My name’s Adonis”.
Miss, thought Nero. He thinks I’m a girl. “Do you want my street name, or my real name”, Nero asked. “Whichever you prefer”, Adonis replied. “Nero”.
“I’ll be back Nero”, he said. He left and came back with some tea. “I’m sorry there’s no furniture in my house. I just moved in.” “.... It’s okay”, Nero said. “If you are feeling better, will you be on your way? If you don’t have a safe place to stay for the night, you can stay here”. Nero stared into the small black mug. He knew that there was no such thing as a free lunch, and he had to pay this man back if he wanted to stay for the night.
“Can I stay for the night,” he asked. “I don’t know where I am, and I don’t have a lot of money”. “ It's okay,'' said Adonis. “You don’t have to pay. I don’t have a bed, but if you want privacy you can sleep in the empty room over there. I can stay in the living room.”
Nero took a shower, and Adonis gave Nero a pair of shorts and a shirt, but they were both too big for him. The shirt draped over his body like an oversized dress, and he couldn’t keep the shorts up. He tried to sleep, but he couldn’t. It's impossible to sleep in a strangers house, especially on the floor with nothing but a blanket.
He decided to get himself a glass of water from the kitchen. Surely the man wouldn’t mind. Nero opened the door to the living room and saw that Adonis was fast asleep. He tried to walk quietly into the kitchen to get himself a drink, but he woke Adonis up anyway.
Adonis entered the kitchen, as Nero was looking through the cupboards for a cup. “What are you doing,” he asked. “It’s late”. Adonis was no longer wearing a mask. His face was clearly handsome, but the large scars over his cheeks were jarring. Nero jumped up and held his hands up. “N-nothing! I just need a drink”. “Relax”, yawned Adonis. He scratched his chest and got out a cup from the cupboard. “I’m not a cop, I won’t shoot”.
“Thank you”, he said. “You’re really nice to me”. “It's nothing”, replied Adonis. Nero walked up to Adonis and hugged him. “I want to repay you for your kindness.” Adonis was touched. “You don’t have to. It's just the right thing to do”.
Nero grabbed Adonis’s crotch through his pants. Adonis shoved him away, and Nero fell on the cold kitchen tile.
“What, are you doing”, he yelled. “What’s wrong with you!?” Nero began to cry. “This is what you want isn’t it? Payment for the night?” “No, that's not what I want at all!” Adonis held his face in his hands. “You’re a kid. You shouldn’t be doing stuff like this''. “I’m not a -” “ You don’t look a day older than 14, thats why I let you into my house. I can’t just let a kid die on the street!” Nero began to cry even harder. “I’m sorry”, he said. Nero ran to the bedroom and grabbed his things. “Where are you going”, asked Adonis. “I’m leaving”, said Nero. “You’re angry and you don’t want me anymore”.
Adonis shook his head. “That's not true. I can’t just let you leave. You’re a girl. Something could happen to you.” “It's okay,'' he said. “I’m not a girl anyway”.
Adonis looked at Nero and sighed. “Now is not the time to be having an identity crisis. If you want to go in the morning that's fine, but please stay for now”. Adonis moved in front of the doorway, and there was no way for Nero to leave. Nero was upset. This giant man who looked like he would mug you in an alleyway was adamant about Nero staying. He didn’t trust him, but he knew that he didn’t want sex, and he didn’t want money. He could have taken those earlier when he arrived at the house. “Okay”, he said. “I’m staying.” Adonis smiled. Somehow he looked even more scary when he smiled. Adonis sat in front of the door, and crossed his arms. “I’m going to be staying right here to make sure you don’t go anywhere”. “ I said I’m staying”, huffed Nero. “But only for the night!”
Nero knew he wouldn’t sleep while there, but he decided lying down for a few hours was better than nothing. He closed his eyes to think of an escape plan. When he next opened them he was still inside the room, and several hours had passed. Adonis was no longer at the doorway. Nero smelled breakfast being prepared in the kitchen.
After using the bathroom, he straggled into the kitchen. Adonis was eating eggs and toast, and another plate was already made for Nero. “Good morning”, said Adonis. “Do you like eggs”?
Nero ignored him, took the plate of eggs and toast, and ate breakfast. It had been a few days since he last ate, and it smelled pretty good. Adonis watched in wonder as the scrawny child finished his food before him. “I have more eggs if you’re still hungry”, he said.
Nero looked him straight in the eyes, defiantly. “I’m not 14,'' he said. “I’m 16. I’m just short”. “Oh…”, said Adonis. “And I’m not a girl either. I just dress like that for work”. Adonis let him continue. He realized that Nero was the type to want to feel like he was in charge, even though he wasn’t. “I’m sorry then”, replied Adonis. “I want more eggs,” said Nero. “Sure, help yourself”, said Adonis.
Nero and Adonis drank tea and got to know each other in the early hours of the morning. Adonis assumed that Nero forgot he was only supposed to spend the night, or maybe he was too embarrassed to admit he had nowhere else to go. He decided it didn’t matter anyway.
Nero wandered the shore until it was time for him to return home. He didn’t know how he could tell Adonis that he lost his job. He would be so disappointed in him. Nero didn’t want Adonis to get rid of him just like his uncle did. He didn’t want to go back to being homeless. He worked so hard to prove his usefulness, that as long as he could do something then he would never end up alone ever again. When Nero finally returned home, Adonis was waiting for him in the kitchen.
“ I know I can’t get you fancy stuff for your birthday, but I at least wanted to get you a cake”, said Adonis. On the kitchen counter was a large vanilla cake, with little strawberries on top. “The frosting is whipped by hand, it's the real stuff”, said Adonis. “Happy Birthday”.
Nero had no idea how he was going to tell Adonis that he was probably fired, especially after he spent money on this expensive cake. “How much did it cost”, Nero asked. “It doesn’t matter”, Adonis said. “It's your birthday.” Adonis carefully stuck 18 candles across the cake and lit them all with his lighter. “Make a wish”, said Adonis.
Nero blew out the candles all in one go. Adonis was amused by how pleased he was with himself by achieving that. “I wished to be happy”, said Nero. Adonis flinched. He’s not happy, he thought. What have I been doing wrong? “You know, you’re not supposed to tell other people your wish or else it won’t come true.” Nero took the first slice of cake. “Thats dumb, who went and decided that,” Nero asked. Adonis laughed and started to cut into the cake.
“Stop laughing at me! You laugh at me everyday,” whined Nero.
“I’m not laughing at you”, said Adonis. “I’m laughing with you. Promise.” Even on his birthday Nero managed to find something to sulk about, but generally Adonis felt he liked the cake. He was happy. Adonis never expected Nero to eat the cake, but he had two slices instead of one, and they were both quite large. “You’re eating quite a lot today”, said Adonis. “Well yeah”, said Nero. “I decided I didn’t want to lie to you about eating anymore. I can’t lie if I actually do it”.
Adonis knew that even though Nero thought he wasn’t happy, he was definitely happier than he was when he first arrived.
Adonis and Nero arrived at a large mansion on the rich side of town. They took the metro and walked the rest of the way toward Ascension Hills. Beautiful cars littered the front of the house. Music could be heard from outside the manor, and beautiful people congregated outside. It was like living in a movie.
As they walked up the steps into the foyer, Adonis began coaching Nero. “Please don’t talk to anyone who looks weird. Don’t drink anything unless you open it yourself. Don't-” “Blah blah blah, yes old man, I’m going to be fine. This party is filled with dangerous people, but It's not my first time at this sort of thing. I’ll be okay,” said Nero. Nero was lying, but he hoped Adonis didn’t notice. “Okay, I’m just worried. Especially since you decided to uh, dress up tonight”.
Nero wore an old pair of simple black heels, a short simple black dress, and straightened his hair. The makeup was old, but still, old makeup was better than none. The dress matched the pentagram pendant Mrs. Fuentes gave him earlier. “Sometimes I wanna feel pretty, sometimes I wanna feel handsome. I think I pass pretty well, and besides, it’s my birthday. Don't have an aneurysm, old man”, said Nero. Adonis rolled his eyes. Nero had only one insult, and it wasn’t even a good one.
The second Nero and Adonis entered the main part of the mansion, they were assaulted by loud music. Nero took off into the crowd, easily losing Adonis. I should have expected that, thought Adonis. At least he can call me on his phone in case anything happens.
In the ballroom people danced on the floor, pushed up against each other, jumping to the loud music. Nero was so excited, so overwhelmed. He was too shy to dance, but decided to wander around the mansion. It was large and beautiful. It reminded him of his home, back when his parents were still alive. The extravagant parties they would throw, inviting people from all over.
Nero wandered into the dining hall, although to call it just a dining hall was an insult. Large chandeliers hung from the arches, and buffet tables were out. It wasn’t as loud as the ballroom, and people were talking to each other, smoking, drinking. Nero took a beer can from a cooler. I wonder if these are any good, he thought. Suddenly, a young man approached him. “Hey”, he said. “Oh.. hi”, Nero replied. “Did you come here alone,” he asked. Suddenly Nero tensed up. Thoughts of earlier in the day, at work rushed back all of a sudden. He bolted for the next room.
Nero felt embarrassed. The guy didn’t look strange at all, in fact he was quite handsome. Nero thought he was brave enough to come to this party and meet new people, but at the end of the day he really wasn’t. Nothing had changed. How could he be happy if the only person he talks to is Adonis?
Nero made his way upstairs to get away from the crowd. There were less people loitering upstairs, and it seemed possible for one to actually hear the person standing next to them up here. From the second floor one could view the dancers in the pit below. Overlooking them was an Alterian smoking a cigarette. He was leaning on the railing and watching the party down below. He looked bored even though everyone at the party seemed to be enjoying themselves. Nero decided that he was going to talk to someone at this party. So he chose him, one of the few people on the second floor.
Nero approached the Alterian. He was huge. Most people feared Alterians. They had impenetrable, dark skin, golden eyes, and an extra set of arms. They were taller than most humanoids, stronger too. Nero was curious because not many Alterians lived on his side of town, they mostly lived deeper into the main part of town.
“H-hello, sir”, said Nero. The Alterian gave him a side eye, and continued smoking. “Hey”, he grunted back. Nero broke out in a cold sweat. Why was talking to people so hard all of a sudden? He decided to keep trying. Adonis always told him to move outside of his comfort zone anyway.
“You seem pretty bored at this party”, said Nero. “You don’t like it? It seems pretty cool here”. The Alterian stood up straight, and his full size was more apparent than before. “Yeah I hate this party. I don’t like parties, so this isn’t really my sort of thing. My sister wanted it. It's our birthday”.
“Oh my gosh it's my birthday too”, said Nero. A huge grin splayed over his face. He’d finally made a friend. “Huh. What a great coincidence.” The Alterian held out one of his giant hands. “I’m Alto.” “Nice to meet you”, Nero replied. “I’m Nero.” Nero shook his hand, or more like Alto shook him with his intense grip.
“It's a shame you don’t like your own party. I’ve been having a pretty rough day myself”, said Nero. “Oh really. Like what?” Nero realized he couldn’t really talk about what happened. It wasn’t the sort of thing you told people. But he realized he would probably never see this man again at this party. So why not.
Alto looked disgusted by Nero’s story. Of course he would be grossed out. I shouldn’t have ever told anyone about what happened today. “I can’t believe these perverts think they’re people”, said Alto. “I’m not anywhere close to a good person, but I would never do something like that”. Alto put out his cigarette with his thumb. “It sucks that some pervert cost you your job. If you want, you can come work for me”. Nero was excited at the prospect of a new job. Finally, no more hour long bus rides, and maybe better pay.
“What kind of job is it”, he asked. “Oh, don’t worry about it, its not sex work or anything like that, just working at one of my properties”, said Alto. Alarm bells went off in Nero’s head. “Sex… work? Why would you mention that”, he asked. Nero was starting to get scared. Maybe all those things people said about Alterians was true.
“Well, I am one of the generals of the Federals that control the area”, said Alto. “Some parts of the cartel do that sort of thing.” All of a sudden everything clicked in Nero’s head. This was a party for Adonis’ boss. The surprise must have shown on his face, because Alto smirked at him. “Did you come to this party, not knowing who I was”? “N-no I just came here with a friend. Adonis,” stammered Nero.
Alto chuckled. He thought it was fun to tease people. This one was easy to bother.
“You know, if you are worried about legal problems, don’t”, said Alto. “I own plenty of legal businesses. This mansion is one of them. I rented it out for parties, I just decided to use it for one of mine today.” Nero looked uneasy. “Look”, said Alto. “You don’t have to come work for me, but I at least want to make sure you’re okay. You can have this.”
Alto reached into his pocket and pulled out a gun.
Nero realized that Adonis was right and that he should have probably stayed home.
“I… I can’t take that”, said Nero. “I don’t even know how to use that”. “Don’t worry”, said Alto. “It's untraceable, so you won’t get caught. Anyone can use a gun. Just point and shoot. Never point unless you’re sure you’re gonna shoot.” “I… I don’t know”, said Nero. “I don’t think I can shoot someone”, said Nero.
Alto sneered. “Everyone says that at first until it's time to choose between your life or someone else’s.” Nero looked down at the ground. He didn’t know how else to tell him no. “ If you wanna know how to use it, just come with me”, said Alto. “I can teach you”.
Nero forgot no was a complete sentence and followed Alto out into the backyard.
The backyard was large, filled with plenty of flowers, tables and chairs, a fountain, and a large staircase leading to a pool. It was empty except for the two of them. Alto picked up the beer cans and wine bottles strewn across the backyard and lined them up a ledge.
He came up behind Nero and put his arms around him. Nero flinched. “ It's okay,'' Alto said. “Sorry, I should have asked first.” He let go of him. This one is cute, he thought. “I’m going to teach you how to shoot that Monty guy in the nuts. So can I?” Nero loosened up. “Okay. I guess it's okay. And if you try anything I can just shoot you as well.” “That’s the spirit”, laughed Alto.
Nero and Alto walked down the trail towards the front of the house. Adonis called him, and that it was getting late, so they decided to meet on the front lawn. “How come nobody called the police after I fired so many bullets”, asked Nero. “ This party is filled with a bunch of criminals, who the *censored* is gonna call the police”, laughed Alto. “.... Fair point…”, replied Nero. “Just remember, if you ever get into a shoot out, you gotta count your bullets, or else you’ll run into trouble”, said Alto. “Count the enemy's bullets as well, so you know when they’re reloading and you can aim to kill”. “ I am not going to put myself into the situations that you put yourself into”, huffed Nero. “Hey, hey, what I do is just an unintended consequence of business,” said Alto.
“Oh yes, before I forget,” said Alto. He reached into his pocket and he pulled out his business card. Nero couldn’t read the symbols on the card, but he could match up the numbers well enough to make a phone call. He could ask Adonis to help him later. Nero stored the card away in his purse.
They reached the parking lot and Nero hugged him. “Thank you so much for today. I… was so scared earlier,” he said. Alto held him close. “Scared of what”, he asked. “ You don’t need to be scared of that asshole any longer”. “No I meant I was scared of meeting new people”, said Nero. Nero liked being held close by him. His big body was like a giant heavy security blanket wrapped around him. Alto looked into his eyes. He leaned in close for a kiss, but Nero stepped back. “O-oh”, stammered Alto. “I’m so sorry I assumed that you were interested”. “I am”, said Nero. “It's just there is something important I have to tell you first”. Nero knew that Alto thought he was a woman and definitely didn’t want this night to go south. “Okay, what is it”, he asked. “I’m a -”
“I’ve finally found you, Nero!”
Nero turned to see Monty in the parking lot.
“ You cheating slut”, yelled Monty. He made a beeline across the parking lot toward Alto and Nero. “You came to a party all dressed up like this. No wonder it took me so long to find you. If it weren’t for the tracker on your phone I wouldn’t have recognized you.” He took a knife out of his pocket.
Nero froze up. He knew he had the gun, that this is what it was for. But he was scared. Alto stepped between them. “Who the *censored* are you”, he asked him. “I’m Nero’s boyfriend,” replied Monty. Alto looked at Nero. He looked scared. His eyes were closed shut, and his body was stiffer than a board. Whether or not it was true, Alto didn’t want him around.
“ You need to leave. I don’t want you here”, said Alto. “I’m not going to ask you twice”. Monty ignored him. “Nero, come with me. Let's talk about this. Come back with me so we can explain everything to Tana,” said Monty. “She has this crazy idea that I’ve been assaulting you. Tell her the truth”.
Alto realized why Nero was so afraid.
“C’mon sweetheart, come back with me. Help me get my job back,” chided Monty. “We worked so well tog-” “ No we didn’t”, yelled Nero. “I hate you. I hate you so much. You’re a snake.”
A crowd had gathered to watch the spectacle.
Alto reached for Nero’s purse and took out the gun. “Wait, don’t do it”, said Nero. “There are different ways to settle problems”. Adonis pushed through the crowd, and called out for Nero. He could hear the fighting but couldn’t push through the crowd.
Monty walked towards Nero and Alto. “Hey, hey, no need for guns. Listen man, it's all good”, said Monty. Monty realized that he literally brought a knife to a gunfight, and the odds were not in his favor.
Nero tried to wrestle the gun from Alto’s hands, but it was impossible. “Why are you stopping me”, asked Alto. “This guy is trash, I’m doing the public a service right now.” “Because killing people is wrong Alto”, said Nero. Alto rolled his eyes, and pointed his gun directly at Monty. Nero leaned his whole entire body into Alto, causing the gun to misfire directly into Alto’s chest.
Thankfully his tough Alterian skin made the bullet as dangerous to Alto as a golf ball. The bullet ricocheted right off him and into the pavement. The crowd booed. They started chanting for blood. Nero took advantage of the misfire and smacked the gun out of Alto’s hand.
The gun slid between Monty and Nero. Monty saw an opening and lunged for the gun, but Nero was faster. Monty jumped on top of Nero and tried to wrestle the gun out of his hands. Nero gave Monty a good hefty kick to his family jewels, and Monty rolled off of him, crying in agony.
“You *censored*ing bitch! I’m gonna kill you!”
Monty struggled to stand, and picked the knife up from the ground. Alto walked over and pushed him back down. He kicked the knife out of his hand, and then kicked him directly in his face.Blood gushed out of Monty’s nose like a fountain. “ You *censored*ing slug”, said Monty. This comment already sent an angry Alto over the edge.
Alterians were called slugs and worms because of their ambiguous genitalia. What was normal to an Alterian’s body was disgusting to the average Paradisian. Alterians spent years trying to argue that they should be classified as humanoids instead of beasts, that they had conscious thought. And over time they were, but that wouldn’t change the years of hatred and racism that still was present in their society.
Alto swung with all his might right into Monty’s ribcage. He let out a small whimper, and gasped for air. Nero stood up and watched as Alto repeatedly kicked him, over and over again. The crowd cheered Alto’s name, and wanted more, as it was obvious that Monty was not going to win this fight.
Adonis finally pushed through the crowd and saw the commotion. “Nero, are you okay”, he yelled. “I’m o-” “Nero, shoot him”, said Alto. “Shoot him now”.
Monty was on the ground, crying. Blood streaked his face, and it was obvious he had peed his pants. “What are you doing”, yelled Adonis. “Stop, stop right now!” The crowd began to chant.
Shoot. Shoot. Shoot.
Nero didn’t know what to do. He knew Monty was scum, but he was already on the ground, bloody and defeated. The chanting of the crowd got louder. Nero pointed his gun at Monty. Monty rose up and tried to get away, but it was too late.
Adonis ran over, but four shots rang out.
Blood poured out of Monty’s mouth and chest. His body went limp and the crowd cheered, screaming for more. Alto’s shoes were covered in Monty’s blood. “Look who’s the slug now,” said Alto. He wiped the blood off of his shoes using Monty’s corpse.
Alto walked over to Nero and held him close. Nero was breathing hard and fast. His mouth tasted like pennies, and all of a sudden he really needed to pee. “How did it feel,” asked Alto. “Did you like your first time?” Nero’s entire body shaked. Tears fell down his face. He was so tired of crying today.
“I’m so angry at myself. So angry that I.. didn’t feel bad looking at his dead body. It felt…. Really good watching him fall to the ground”.
Adonis strode across the parking lot, and grabbed Nero away from Alto. His shirt tore into pieces as his wings pushed out from his body. They created a protective shield between them and Alto.
“Stay away”, growled Adonis.
He picked up Nero, and he took a running start and a giant leap into the sky. The crowd dispersed seeing as the fight was over as fast as it began. It had been a long time since Alto had felt so excited about anything. This was the best birthday party he ever had. He hoped Nero would call him soon.
Alto’s men and his twin sister came into the front yard, once they heard the gunshots to make sure he was fine. “Oh my god, what happened here”, said Azara. She saw the corpse on the ground, leaking blood all over the pavement. “Why can’t you just leave well enough alone for once, Alto? This party was going great and you just had to throw a fit because you didn’t want it.”
“Ask anyone in the crowd”, said Adonis. “He attacked me and my friend first. We were minding our own business. It was self defense”. Azara didn’t believe it was self defense, looking at how badly Alto had mangled his face. She decided to drop it. Only one person died, so technically this was a good day for them.
Once Alto assured his men that he was unharmed, they took Monty’s body to the furnace in the basement, never to be seen again.