Re: Elaine/TJ
TJ laughed. "Some of it is. He's not brainwashed. He wants it for himself. But, he wants it for you, too. And yes, you are pretty good. It's pretty damn daunting to be your kids, sometimes." He leaned over to kiss her cheek. "You're still an amazing woman, Mom. It's why we try so hard to please you."
Sighing, he squeezed her hand. "I believe you. But, I was fourteen and betrayed and sent away from my family. It's what it felt like at the time." TJ shrugged. "Maybe that's why I've always felt different, out of place. I change, I like change in the world around me. New parties, new people, new business ventures."
TJ wasn't as certain as his mother sounded. But, he nodded anyway. He was going to find a way through to his brother. Although, the idea that he was the one with faith made him laugh inwardly. "I know you didn't. And I've come to see the problems in that relationship now, how unhealthy it was. But, I was in love with him. It wasn't like it is with Travis, though. Travis isn't anything like him. I don't think he's even capable of thinking of doing what Sean did, not to someone he cares for...and he does care for me, as much as I care for him."
He couldn't help snorting at the jealousy in his mother's voice. "It's Dad, of course he enjoys it. It is, however, a trait I remember from watching her before we left in October." An annoying one, he recalled. "And everyone loves Nana. Except maybe Dad, but that's because she won't let him bullshit her. But, I can play nice when I want to."