After reassuring Ty everything would be okay, Jeff celebrated the rest of the afternoon with Ty, playing video games and board games with Jeff’s dad.
Ty had broken down after seeing the surprise birthday party that he and his dad had “prepared” (in this timeline) for him. After frantically calming him down, he and his dad took the liberty of making Ty feel welcome. Ty was a great kid, and intelligent to boot, just repressed by his musclehead brother and unsatisfied parents.
“Th-thanks for that. Um…. Do you mind if I stay here for the night? My parents…”
“Don’t worry about it,” Jeff’s dad said, “They can’t harm you while you’re here.”
A few moments later…. Ty was in a futon, getting ready to sleep in Jeff’s room.
“Hey…. Thanks for doing all this.” Ty said. Jeff felt a warmth spread from his heart.
Yeah. This was great.
“Dude. You’re my little brother. I’ll take care of you. No matter what.” Ty blushed, and felt really touched. Jeff was already a contrast from Dusty.
Jeff wasn’t trying to be anything at all. He wanted Ty to accept him as himself, so doing this stuff made him nervous. But he felt a bit relieved after talking to Ty.
“Hey. Have any wishes you’d like to fulfill? Besides your birthday wish, you’re not supposed to share that one aloud.” Jeff said, this time seemingly trying to imply something.
“Huh? I-I mean…. I’ve always wanted….”