Bonfire Part 3
“Then I’m glad you’re not in that gang.” Sasha gave the fae a small smile. “If I was still in the commune we wouldn’t be friends either. Demons don’t really make friends, even with each other. Even if you know someone well, they’re not your friend. You can’t trust anyone down there.” He huffed, holding the vodka glass in both hands. “But I still miss it sometimes. I knew my place there; everyone always knows their place in a demon commune, so in some ways it was easier than living up here. You didn’t have to make choices and nobody cared if you were stupid because half-demons weren’t supposed to be smart. And I didn’t have to think about how I was going to survive after school because everything was set.”
Pavel could sort of understand that. While he never would have been able to accept certain things about himself had he stayed, if he hadn’t poisoned Talia on accident he would have had a path set out and known where he was supposed to be. He wouldn’t have to control his anger, or worry about school or what others thought. He was on the path to becoming an enforcer and would probably have been groomed for more. Pavel’s not sure the him now would have liked that alternate version of himself. “See, in Bratva, loyalty is everything. You betray brothers… you are risk of being killed- or at least taught lesson.” He finished what was left of his drink and set the glass on the floor. “And one like you… would be beaten because of how you are. Me too… if they knew.” He looked over to the boy. “I am glad you are not in commune and I am not in Ukraine. I like…” you “Being friend.”
“Demon loyalty is bought with bribes or fear, but it doesn’t mean they stay loyal. There’s a lot of infighting and a lot of greed...I guess that’s expected,” he shrugged. “But it’s a shame your gang doesn’t like gay people, I think I’d be kinda good at that stuff.” Sasha grinned at his own humour, flashing his fangs briefly. “Demons don’t care about who you like, only your blood and how pure it is.” Following Pavel’s lead he emptied his glass again and set it down beside him. “But you still get picked on. I was small for a long time, and...my voice didn’t change until just before I was 15. It makes you a target and the only way to stop it is to hit first and hit harder. I guess that’s how I get into so many fights at school.”
Sasha gave a little shrug and glanced at Pavel, smiling at his comment. “I like being friends with you too!” Leaning over he pressed a kiss to the fae’s lips. “A lot.”
“Come here” Pavel said, taking the other teens hand as he moved to stand up. With a gentle tug, he helped Sasha to his feet and slipped a hand around his waist. “Enough talk about places we never want to go back to.” He said, holding the half-demon close. “Let us enjoy now…” The Fae pressed his lips against Sasha’s, kissing him with a slight desperation. All the memories of home made him want to take advantage of the freedom he had at that moment longer, as if there were a chance it would be taken away.
The half-demon laughed, a little giddy from the alcohol, as he was pulled out of his chair and onto his feet by the fae. He managed to compose himself as Pavel’s arm snuck around his waist. “Enjoy now?” Sasha echoed. “You could just say-” But the fae had already caught his mouth in a kiss, one which he gladly returned.
As the kiss eventually broke, Pavel rested his forehead on Sasha’s. His heart seemed to pound in his chest. “I really like you.” He breathed, the words slipping out before he could stop them.