Chapter Text
Cody let out an annoyed breath as he and Josh walked towards the building, just looking at the dull cement block made him want to run home and play video games. “Mate why do we still go to this?”
Cause your pop thinks it’ll help, and I do too , Josh signed as he shrugged to himself, opening the door for the curly haired lad and following him inside. You’ve been miserable since it happened and this helps a bit, don’t you think?
“No,” Cody muttered as he rolled his eyes. “Em and I just broke up, it has nothing to do with my deafness so why do we come?”
Would you stop whining for five seconds? These people don’t know you and it’s a chance to get whatever you want off your chest. Plus I think it helps that they’re deaf too. They understand certain stuff on a level that I can’t.
“Alright I know you’re a psych major or whatever but I don’t need your insight and analysis on everything all the time,” Cody teased, walking into the room and almost letting out a groan at the sight of the terrible orange plastic chairs that were set up in a circle.
It’s not like anyone besides Josh would hear it anyway.
The two took their seats, Cody immediately slumping, crossing his arms over his chest and throwing his head back, wishing he could just go home. He hated that Josh and his pop begged him to go to this and he only did it for them, but it’s not like he actually shared anything with the group.
And when Cody felt someone take a seat on the other side of him he didn’t even bother to pick his head up, well, that was until he felt someone tapping his shoulder.
He looked over and raised his eyebrows at this stranger, never seeing this guy here before but he was smiling and seemed genuinely excited to be here for whatever reason.
Hi, I’m TJ , he signed happily, offering Cody his hand to shake.
Cody , he signed quickly, shaking his hand and offering him a tight lined smile before looking away from him again.
He felt Josh nudge his side and Cody knew that his mate wanted him to keep talking to this guy but he just didn’t feel like it. So, of course, Josh being his over friendly and charismatic self he reached over Cody and got the guy’s attention.
Hey, I’m Josh. You new here?
TJ. And yeah, I’m studying to be an interpreter so I thought it’d be fun to come, TJ signed, smiling between the two but Cody still had his head thrown back, paying no mind to them.
“Oh, so you’re hearing then?” Josh asked with furrowed eyebrows, the blue eyed lad nodding at him. “I am too, and this is my best mate Cody, he’s deaf. Don’t mind him though, he just gets cranky whenever we come here,” he said and signed, earning a punch to the arm for that one.
“We could be getting drunk but instead you drag me here, so sorry for not being excited,” Cody rolled his eyes.
First of all it’s like noon so calm down, no one is getting drunk until tonight, Josh rolled his eyes.
He really is quite cranky, TJ signed, making Josh laugh and Cody side eye him. You look really familiar though… Do I know you from somewhere? he asked, his eyes focused on Cody.
You might know his dad, he’s Lou-
“No, no, I don’t think we’ve ever met,” Cody said quickly, stopping Josh and sending him a silent message.
It’s not that he hated that people knew his dad was Louis Tomlinson, it’s just that whenever anyone found out they pretended to be his friend to get to his dad and after all these years he was more than sick of it.
But luckily that’s all that was said before the group leader got up and started signing to all of them. And of course they all went around the room like they normally do, introducing themselves and getting comfortable with one another. When it was Cody’s turn though he let out a deep breath, sitting up a bit and looking at least somewhat engaged.
My name is Cody, I’ll be 19 in August and I’ve been deaf since birth, he signed, seeing everyone else sign back their hellos and offer him small smiles.
He slumped back in his seat, glancing over to TJ next to him as he sat up and just seemed way too happy to be here.
Hi! I’m TJ, I’m 18 but I’ll be turning 19 in September and I’m hearing but am studying to be interpreter, he signed, the smile never leaving his face as the group signed hello back to him.
Josh tapped Cody’s arm, getting his attention and seeing him raise his eyebrows at him. You should talk to him mate, he seems nice and he’s our age.
Cody shrugged, maybe he’d think about it instead of focusing on the group, it seemed more entertaining anyway. The entire time they were there though the only thing he really thought about was going to his dads’ for dinner and eating his pop’s food. That had to be the thing he missed most about living at home, well that and not seeing his brothers and dad every day.
But when everyone was done signing about their feelings and Josh was done trying to get him to participate Cody stood up, seeing as this thing was finally over and was more than ready to leave.
Before he could even take two steps towards the door though he felt a hand grab his arm, stopping him in his tracks.
Hey, TJ signed sheepishly, offering him a small smile. I know you didn’t sign much and I don’t know much about you, but would you and maybe Josh like to go out sometime and just hang out?
Cody looked at him confused, his eyes shifting between Josh and this guy, his best mate nodding and mouthing “say yes”. “Uhm, sure, yeah, I guess. Josh will give you his number and we can plan something.”
Josh glanced over at his best mate confused as he heard him, not sure why Cody wouldn’t just give this guy his own number. “Yeah, here mate, just put your number in and I’ll text ya tonight,” he said, offering TJ a small smile and his phone.
“Thanks,” TJ said happily as he took the phone.
Cody shoved his hands in his pockets, waiting for Josh to get his phone back so they could leave. And when he saw the two were done talking he started heading towards the door again, Josh following right after him.
Did you ever think that if you stopped being so cold to new people that you would have more friends? Josh asked with raised eyebrows as he got situated in the drivers seat.
“I’m not cold to everyone,” Cody muttered, brushing his fingers through the top of his curls. “I dunno, I just really hate being there, I didn’t mean to be rude to him.”
Josh looked at his best mate softly, letting out a quiet breath and patting his leg. If you really hate it we’ll stop going… It’s just that your pop and I thought it would be helpful after the whole Emma thing.
“You guys can seriously calm down, you make it seem like her and I ended on a bad note or something.”
Well, you were dating for like 5 years, Josh signed, shrugging to himself and turning the car on.
“I’m fine mate, you can relax. Let’s just get to my dads’ before my pop starts blowing up my phone and asking where we are.”
Josh let out a quiet laugh, the only good thing about these meetings were the lunches Harry made for them when they came over afterwards to talk about it.
The two drove to the house in silence, Cody’s eyes trained out the window and hand resting on the speaker so he could feel the music running through the car. When he glanced over at Josh he saw him bobbing in time with the beat. As soon as they pulled up to the familiar gates though the music stopped, the two more than ready for the feast of a lunch Harry was bound to have prepared.
“We’re here!!” Cody yelled as soon as he was in his childhood home, it not even being a minute later he felt a tiny body crash into him.
Cody!! Papa made lunch! Charlie signed, tugging on her big brother’s shirt and asking to be picked up.
“He did?!” Cody asked, pulling a shocked face before kissing the 5 year old’s cheek and walking further into the house with Josh following behind him. “Where are my favorite boys? They home?”
Rory and Cameron are playing Fifa in the living room with daddy, she signed, playing with Cody’s curls at the nape of his neck before waving to Josh.
“Of course,” Cody laughed quietly as he rolled his eyes, making his way into the kitchen and immediately seeing his father. “Hey pop, cooking up something good?” he asked, placing Charlie down and letting her run off.
Always, Harry smiled back at him and saying a quick hi to Josh. How was the meeting today?
“Great as usual,” Cody said, offering his pop his most convincing smile but seeing Josh roll his eyes. “We uhm, well Josh and I actually met a guy there today.”
Oh yeah? Harry asked surprised, his smile only widening. You make a new friend? You should’ve invited him to lunch!
“Easy pop, we said like three words to each other,” Cody rolled his eyes fondly, his father always getting way too excited if possible new mates were mentioned.
Harry shrugged, thinking it would’ve been fun if this new friend came over but he always knew Cody was hesitant about new people. Maybe next time then, he smiled at him. But go say hi to your dad and your brothers, they’ve been looking forward to you coming over all day.
Cody didn’t have to be told twice, grabbing Josh’s arm and basically dragging him into the living room, immediately seeing his brothers sitting on the floor in front of the tv. “My favorite boys!!” he yelled, tackling the twins and interrupting their game.
As soon as the twins felt their big brother on them they groaned but still smiled to themselves as they pushed Cody off them.
“You guys are losing,” Louis said in a sing-song voice, a smirk coming to him as he scored on the twins and then paused the game. Hey buddy, meeting any better today?
Cody shrugged as the twins tried to wrestle with him, the 10 year olds being much stronger than he remembered. “Usual,” he muttered, his dad knowing how much he hated it. “I don’t think we’re gonna go again though.”
Louis nodded, figuring Cody and Josh would’ve stopped going weeks ago but his son knew how much it meant to Harry.
“Well Cody and I met someone there today,” Josh said and signed before pulling Rory off Cody and tossing him on the couch, helping his mate out. “I was thinking he could come to the club with us tonight,” he looked over to Cody, sending him a hopeful grin.
Cody just looked at him for a second, holding Cameron tightly to his chest so he couldn’t jump on him anymore. “But it’s just supposed to be me, you, Al and Hayden. We don’t even know this guy.”
Hence why we invite him places with us and get to know him, Josh signed with raised eyebrows.
Cody opened and closed his mouth, wanting to protest terribly but when he looked over to his dad for help he saw him shrug.
Cody another friend never hurts, stop being so grouchy, Cameron signed, flicking his brother’s ear and giggling as he felt Cody tickle him.
“Seriously buddy if this guy you met seems nice and he wanted to get to know you give him a chance,” Louis signed and said, hearing his son huff but nod anyway.
“Fine, Josh send me his number and I’ll text him myself,” Cody said quietly, trying desperately to keep Rory and Cameron at bay from tackling him. “I feel bad… I was rude to him today, wasn’t I?”
Little bit, Josh signed as he laughed to himself. But he’ll be happy you’re the one texting him, I think he wanted your number anyway, not mine.
“Wait, what?” Louis asked with raised eyebrows. “Was he hitting on you or something?” he teased.
“Of course not,” Cody rolled his eyes, that being absolutely ridiculous.
You never know mate, Josh signed jokingly, poking his best mate and making him slap his hand away. Tonight will be fun though, have faith. We’ll get proper drunk and then back to ours for video games and junk food.
Cody let out a quiet breath as he pulled out his phone and sent a text to this guy, telling him what time and where to meet them if he wished to join. Maybe this wouldn’t be so bad, this guy did seem really nice and he already knew sign language which was convenient. If anything he just hoped his sister didn’t embarrass him like she usually does. He didn’t want this new potential mate to be scared away by his sister.
*~*
“Oh my God!!”
Cody ran and met his sister half way in the parking lot, engulfing her in a hug and kissing her cheek. “Holy shit I missed you,” he laughed, giving her one more squeeze before finally letting her go.
Come on baby brother it’s only been like 2 weeks, Alexis rolled her eyes.
“2 weeks too long,” Cody huffed, hating not seeing his family every day. “Josh and Hayden already inside?” he asked, looking to the lit up club building.
Yeah, Hayden’s already a bit drunk so beware, you know how he gets. And Josh is well on his way, they were having a competition or whatever, Alexis signed, walking alongside her brother as they made their way towards the club. I thought you were going to come with Josh? she signed confused.
“I was going to but I had some stuff to finish up for work,” Cody shrugged. “Also I’m meeting a guy here soon, so behave.”
Wait, whoa, whoa, whoa, Alexis tugged on Cody’s arm and made him stop walking. Meeting a guy? Is this like a date?
“You’re seriously a carbon copy of dad, no,” he rolled his eyes, walking towards the building again. “I don’t even like boys.”
Alexis side eyed her brother as she heard him muttering to himself, letting out a quiet hum herself and pursing her lips as she thought about that. But she followed him into the club anyway, seeing Cody’s face break into a wide grin as he felt the music as soon as they walked through the doors.
Remember to talk louder, almost scream because it’s impossible to hear anything in here, Alexis reminded him, seeing Cody nod as he squeezed through the hoards of people and walked towards the bar.
You get a drink already? Cody asked, waving over the bartender.
Yeah, I’ll order yours though, don’t worry, Alexis said, knowing her brother doesn’t like to talk in places like this, especially when he doesn’t know how loud everyone else is around him.
So she ordered more than enough drinks for him, and even some more for Hayden and Josh before the pair went off to find the two.
“Cody!! My man, I missed you!!” Hayden slurred and screamed, lunging at the curly haired lad and hugging him tightly.
He’s so drunk he forgot I can’t hear, this is fantastic, Cody signed and laughed before hugging his brother-in-law back.
“Love remember to sign please,” Alexis said to her husband, getting a blank stare back from him before he went wide eyed.
Sorry, sorry, I’m just a little tipsy.
Cody raised his eyebrows at the older lad, even Hayden’s signing sloppy because he was that hammered.
Hey, did TJ ever answer you? Josh asked, taking a swig of his beer and glancing towards the dancefloor, aching to get out there.
Yeah, he’s coming in a little bit. Even over text he seems way too happy, Cody signed back as he laughed to himself. You ever ask Zaria if she’s coming?
He’s just excited to see you, Josh teased, wiggling his eyebrows at his best mate. And Zar will be here in about a half hour. I want her here now though, I just want to dance.
Easy mate, I don’t need to see you grinding with my cousin, Cody said as he scrunched his face up.
Josh shrugged, a small smirk coming to him as he took another swig of his beer and saw his best mate throw another shot back. And just before he was about to sign something back he saw a girl come up behind Cody, her clearly trying to get his attention so he tapped the older lad’s arm and pointed behind him.
Cody furrowed his eyebrows, turning around until he came face to face with some girl smiling shyly at him. So he offered her a small grin back, the same grin that his pop said made his dad fall for him when they first met. And Cody had to say, this smile really did get the girls, well before they found out he couldn’t hear it did.
And he didn’t need to think too hard to see what this girl wanted, so he nodded towards the dance floor and offered her his hand. His dad always said he got his charm from his pop, and Cody had to admit that was more than true. His father always had a way of making everyone fawn over him, and Cody may or may not use that charm on the ladies in the club.
He made sure to wink at Josh as he led the girl to the dance floor, earning and an eye roll from his best mate and also seeing his sister not so subtly watching him.
Cody could feel the music vibrating through him, walking past sweaty bodies on the dancefloor until he found a somewhat open area and twirled this girl until they were facing each other again.
He smiled down at her, placing his hand on her hip and feeling the beat of the music before he started dancing. And Cody couldn’t even say how grateful he was to get his dad’s dancing skills. With his pop’s charm and looks and his dad’s natural rhythm he felt unstoppable in the dating game. But it wasn’t really that Cody dated, just ever since he and Emma broke up months back he’ll go to the club and some girl will flash a smile at him and he’ll spend a night with her, that’s all. And sometimes it goes well, others it doesn’t when in the morning they find out he’s deaf and storm out of his flat. More often than not though they find out he’s deaf before they even leave the club and that ruins the whole night right there. For a little while Cody has fun though, at least he tries to.
Tonight seemed to be going well and he already had a light buzz running through him from the drinks he downed when he first got here. This girl was cute, the music felt good and the looks she was giving him as they danced showed that she was getting more and more interested.
Well, that was until Josh came up to them and grabbed Cody’s arm, taking his attention away from her.
TJ is here, come say hi, Josh signed quickly.
I’m kind of busy here, he gestured to the girl, her looking between them confused.
Stop being an ass for five seconds, she’s not going anywhere, just come say hi, Josh rolled his eyes.
Cody brought up his hands to sign again but before he could he felt a hand shove his shoulder back. And when he looked to see who it was he saw the girl he was dancing with looking at him wide eyed, clearly trying to talk to him but she was talking way too fast for him to keep up. The only thing Cody caught was “deaf” before she raised her eyebrows, kept her gaze locked on him for a second more and shaking her head as she walked away.
He couldn’t do anything but watch her walk away, even if he didn’t talk to her, didn’t know her name it still hurt how easily he was shoved aside.
I’m sorry mate, Josh signed as he bit his lip and rubbed the older lad’s back. Come on, let’s get you a drink.
Of course, he knew how much stuff like this hurts Cody and he hates how often it happens and the more it does the colder his best mate gets. He doesn’t want to see Cody getting more and more angry as time goes on and people treat him like he’s nothing. But there was only so much he could do for his mate.
For right now he could get him a drink, so that’s exactly what Josh did, leading him back to the table where Hayden, Alexis, and TJ were all sitting.
Hey! Long time no see! TJ signed happily as he saw the curly haired lad.
Cody offered him a small smile as he slid into the booth, taking a large gulp of his beer and getting comfortable. But of course as soon as he looked up he saw his sister smirking at him, signing a quick he’s cute before winking at him.
“Oh! Thank you!” TJ said and signed, his smile only growing.
Cody sputtered his beer, looking at his sister wide eyed and seeing her laughing hysterically.
“Shit, I’m so sorry, I forgot you sign,” Alexis chuckled sheepishly, Cody sending her his absolute best death glare.
TJ shrugged as his cheeks were heating up, glancing over at Cody and biting his lip at seeing the curly haired lad’s face pink as well. “It’s okay, really,” he said quietly, signing it sheepishly.
Cody glanced over at TJ as he saw his sister and him talking, them signing as well so he could be included but he wasn’t really keeping track of the conversation. Instead he was just looking at the boy next to him, saw how bright his blue eyes were as he smiled or the way his feathery brown hair was styled into this seemingly perfect quiff. And fine, maybe Cody could admit that he was cute.
TJ had dimples just like he did that popped out every time he smiled or laughed, which was a lot and Cody noticed how he fiddled with his fingers when he got nervous or seemed embarrassed. It was probably really weird, the way he was just watching him but for some reason, he couldn’t help it.
He knew TJ was nice, that was obvious, but just drinking and watching him talk all night with his sister or Hayden or Josh not only was he nice, but he was hilarious. More often than not Cody found himself hiding his laugh into his hand at whatever ridiculous thing the younger lad said. He stayed quiet though, not wanting to say the wrong thing or embarrass himself. Cody actually wanted this guy as a mate, he didn’t want to mess it up by opening his mouth.
But when Hayden and Alexis went off to dance and Josh met up with Zaria at the bar it left just the two of them, and now Cody was forced to actually interact with this guy.
Well hey, TJ signed as he laughed to himself, turning to the curly haired lad.
And Cody really didn’t know what to do other than smile at him, fiddling with his beer bottle and biting his lip. He could see TJ trying to figure out what to say as he scratched the back of his neck and looked down to his own drink.
Would you… Would you maybe want to dance?
Cody thought TJ’s hands were nearly shaking as he asked him, and all he did was look back at the younger lad for a second. Two guys can dance together and it won’t be weird, right? It was just a friendly thing, he and Josh dance together sometimes, hell sometimes they even sleep in the same bed.
Sure, he grinned at the blue eyed lad, sliding out of the booth and leading him to the dancefloor.
Maybe tonight wouldn’t be so bad. TJ was more than fun and he reminded him of his pop when he danced. Of course when he teased the younger lad about how he can hear the music he should at least be decent at dancing and for that one TJ rolled his eyes and shoved his shoulder playfully. And Cody really wanted to make him laugh more, he liked it when TJ smiled and he was the reason behind it.
You’re really good, TJ signed, watching the curly lad as he moved to the music.
Get to thank my dad for that, he taught me everything I know, Cody signed as he laughed to himself, still moving to the beat as he felt it getting faster and faster.
My dad can’t dance to save his life, and you can see I take after him, TJ joked, seeing the older lad muffle his laugh into his hand.
Come here, I’ll show you something, he signed, reaching for TJ’s waist as he looked down at the younger lad, his cheeks immediately going red as he realized what he was doing. Shit, sorry, Cody signed quickly, taking his hand off the blue eyed lad as he saw TJ looking back at him wide eyed.
No, no, it’s okay, go ahead, TJ said, offering him a small smile.
Cody just looked at him for a second, swallowing thickly before reaching for him again hesitantly and slowly moving to the music. “The music is loud enough where you can feel it, just feel the beat, look,” he said over the music, looking down to his tapping foot that went along with the beat. “Just sway on every beat.”
TJ nodded, his cheeks heating up as he tried to follow the older lad and felt him pulling him closer.
“There you go, looking good,” Cody smiled down at him, seeing the blue eyed lad try to hide his own grin as they danced. “We’re gonna make a dancer out of you, yeah?”
TJ let out an embarrassed laugh and just as he raised his hands to sign he saw someone come up to them.
Cody felt the air get knocked out of his lungs as his sister crashed into him, a very drunk Hayden behind her. What?! he asked annoyed.
I haven’t seen you smile this much in months, keep him around, Alexis signed quickly, making sure TJ couldn’t see her. Ask him to dinner tomorrow and bring him back to your flat and ya know, she winked. We’re leaving but we’ll see you on Sunday for family dinner. Bye! Love you!
Cody groaned as Alexis stood on her toes and kissed his cheek, he waved to Hayden, saying bye to his stumbling brother-in-law before looking back to TJ. Sorry about her, he signed sheepishly.
It’s fine. It’s adorable how close you guys are, TJ laughed as the older lad took a step closer to him and picked his dancing back up.
“Oh yeah, you know, we’re the cutest,” Cody rolled his eyes, grabbing TJ’s hand and twirling him before getting the blue eyed lad to dance with him again. “You’re really getting the hang of this, I don’t think you need any more lessons.”
TJ shrugged as he bit his lip, trying to hide his growing smile. Might need a few more, you know just to make sure I have everything down.
Cody raised his eyebrows at that, not sure if this was flirting or not, but he doesn’t know why he would even bother flirting with this guy. He was a guy after all, he didn’t think of TJ like that.
Mate!! Josh waved his hand in front of Cody quickly, getting his attention. Zaria and I are going back to the flat, you hanging here for a bit? he asked, his eyes shifting to TJ and then back to his mate.
Yeah, I think we’re going to have a few more drinks and dance a bit more, Cody said, smiling over at the blue eyed lad and seeing him grin back. I’ll catch up with you guys for breakfast.
Alright, have fun, Josh winked at him, seeing Cody scowl and roll his eyes before waving a final time and returning to his dancing.
You’ll learn quickly that everyone I know tries to embarrass me, Cody signed as soon as Josh walked away, seeing TJ laugh.
Well from who I met tonight they all seem really great, you’re lucky.
Cody almost wanted to scoff at that, the thought of him being lucky was hilarious. But instead, he just continued dancing with the younger lad, seeing him get more confident as the night wore on and they had more drinks. And Cody could easily say that he already really liked TJ, he could see himself keeping this guy around for a while.
*~*
Harry let out a deep breath as he closed Rosie’s bedroom door behind him, the 14 year old being more than difficult today, but he knew this is what comes with the age.
He made his way down the hall to his and Louis’ bedroom, combing his fingers through his hair and pushing the door open to see his husband already laying in bed with his glasses on and his book in his hand.
“How was she?” he asked without looking up from what he was reading.
All Harry did was toss Rosie’s phone on the bed, that being all he had to do for the older lad to understand how their daughter was.
“I swear next time she goes over the limit we’re making her pay the bill,” Louis muttered as he glanced over at Harry and saw the younger lad tugging his clothes off and basically falling into bed.
He released a small breath, placing his book to the side and reaching over to rub his husband’s back. Louis knew how tired and stressed Harry was, anyone with eyes could see it. And he could feel it as every night he’ll rub the younger lad’s back, there being new knots and his muscles tense every single day.
“I don’t how I’m gonna do this Lou,” Harry mumbled into his pillow as he felt him digging his fingers into his skin.
“Do what love?”
“The second cafe… It’s just… It’s already taken so much out of me and it isn’t even open yet, I don’t think I can do it,” Harry said quietly as he rubbed his hands over his face.
“H you’ve been wanting to open this place for over a year now,” Louis said softly, running his hands down Harry’s bareback and placing gentle kisses between his shoulder blades. “I know it’s hard now, but when it does open and you get into a routine everything will be alright, you’ll see.”
“I hope you’re right,” Harry breathed out, almost immediately relaxing as his husband’s fingers worked over him. “Cody seemed happier today, didn’t he? I mean those meetings are helping a bit I think,” he said, his son being on his mind all day.
Louis bit his lip as he shrugged, but Harry couldn’t really see him as he laid on his stomach. “I dunno if it’s the meetings but he said he met someone today, maybe that’s it.”
“Yeah I told him he should’ve brought this guy over for lunch, but I guess he invited him to the club with him, Al, Hayden and Josh, so that must’ve been fun. He texted me a little while ago and he just seemed happier.”
“Wonder who this guy is,” Louis said quietly, knowing Cody didn’t take to new people easily. “Josh made it sound like the guy they met was flirting with him or something,” he laughed, making Harry pick his head up and look back at him confused.
“Wait, what? Some guy Cody met at the meeting was flirting with him? What’d he say? Did he-”
“Love I don’t know,” Louis chuckled, stopping his husband before he could be attacked with questions. “Maybe he was flirting, maybe he was just being friendly.”
Harry was quiet for a moment, furrowing his eyebrows and rolling under Louis so his husband was straddling his waist. “Well do you think if he was flirting Cody flirted back?”
“He didn’t say,” Louis shrugged. “But Cody being who he is and how he inherited your charm I’m sure he swept someone off their feet tonight.”
Harry bit his lip, resting his hands on the older lad’s waist as a thought started nagging at him. “You don’t get worried for him? I mean Al said since he and Emma broke up he’s been going to the club more and taking girls home…” he trailed off quietly.
“I dunno love, he’s just being 18,” Louis breathed out. “I want to say that’s just a thing 18 year old’s do but I wouldn't know considering we had a baby at the time,” he laughed, making the younger lad roll his eyes.
“I just don’t want him burying something that’s bothering him by sleeping with random people, I don’t like that,” Harry shook his head. “I get worried that he’s more hurt about Emma than he’s letting on and instead of dealing with it he’s sleeping around.”
“H you know he’s not sleeping around, you’re being dramatic,” Louis said as he got off his husband and turned off the bedroom lights before cuddling back into his side. “He goes out like once a week and not even a quarter of the time does he take someone back to his flat.”
He saw Harry glance over at him, and he knew how worried the younger lad was about Cody, but Louis thought their son was dealing with things in his own way. He understood where his husband was coming from though, the fact that their son sleeps with strangers isn’t really something he’s a fan of either.
“I’ll talk to him love, it’s okay,” Louis said quietly, pulling Harry impossibly closer to his side and kissing his temple. “I’ll stop by the music shop tomorrow after practice and maybe talk some sense into him.”
Harry let out a quiet “thank you” pressing a gentle kiss to Louis’ neck and running his hand up and down the older lad’s side. With that settled he felt like he could really relax, and it wasn’t even minutes later did he find himself drifting off into a deep sleep.
*~*
“Rosie Jennifer Tomlinson if I hear one more word come out of your mouth all hell will break loose!” Harry yelled, hearing the teenager groan and stomp up the stairs.
He almost wanted to groan himself, missing the days when Rosie was this sweet little toddler who just wanted to cuddle and kiss him all the time and now it was all hormones all the time with her.
“What’s wrong grumpy cat?” Louis laughed as he came into the kitchen, hearing his husband scream from his office.
“That daughter of yours is trying to kill me, I swear,” Harry muttered as he checked over the sauce cooking on the stove.
“What do you mean? Charlie is the cutest and most well behaved little girl in the whole world!” Louis said, the 5 year old walking into the kitchen and giggling as she heard her daddy.
He picked her up, giving Charlie a sloppy kiss on her cheek before turning back to his husband and seeing the younger lad smiling at him.
“Can you go make sure Rosie is doing her homework? And if she’s on her phone again take it from her. I’m a second away from smashing that thing.”
“Easy killer,” Louis teased, pressing a quick peck to Harry’s cheek before carrying Charlie upstairs to check on Rosie.
Harry let out a small breath as he turned back to the stove, his Sunday dinner coming along easily at least. He only hoped when Alexis, Hayden, and Cody came over that everyone could just relax and get along, well he hoped that Rosie could relax and not scream at anyone.
“Hey pop.”
Harry turned around, smiling to himself as he saw Cody come into the kitchen. Hey buddy, how was your day? he asked, leaning over the breakfast bar counter as his son took a seat across from him.
“Good. Had work in the morning but that's all,” Cody shrugged.
“Was this work for the glasses company or the music shop?” Harry said and signed, heading over to the fridge and pulling out two beers for them.
“Music shop,” Cody said, happily accepting the bottle his pop passed him. “Today this kid thought I was some kind of superhuman it was hilarious. He was like 6 and his mum told him I couldn’t hear but I helped him pick out a new drum set and showed him some stuff, he thought it was cool or that I had super powers or something,” he said through a small laugh, remembering the shocked boy’s face.
“That’s great buddy,” Harry smiled back at him. “How’s that new friend of yours?”
Cody hummed and perked up a bit as he took a swig of his beer. “He’s really good. He’s actually coming over later tonight to play video games and stuff.”
Harry raised his eyebrows at that, seeing his son’s smile only grow. “What’s his name again? PJ or CJ or something?”
“TJ pop,” Cody chuckled as he rolled his eyes.
Harry let out a sheepish laugh, brushing his fingers through his hair and picking up his own beer before taking a swig and bringing up his hands to sign again. “So what’s up with you guys? Are you just friends or is there something a bit more-”
“I don’t like boys pop, we’re just friends,” Cody shook his head.
“Just thought I’d ask,” Harry breathed out, putting his hands up in defeat after he finished signing. “Your sister mentioned how happy you seemed with him and how much fun you were having at the club.”
“That doesn’t mean I’m dating him, it means I have a new friend.”
Harry bit his lip as he nodded at his son, easily already seeing him get a bit mad and he didn’t want to push him too much on the subject. “Well that’s great buddy. Maybe sometime you can bring him by and your dad and I can meet him.”
“Maybe,” Cody said quietly, wanting to get to know TJ a bit more before the younger lad finds out who he really is, well who is father is.
“It’s smellin good in here pop!!” Alexis said happily as she and Hayden came into the kitchen, making sure to kiss Cody’s head before stealing his beer for a quick sip.
“Wanna help me finish cooking love?” Harry smiled over his shoulder as he checked the chicken in the oven.
Alexis didn’t need to be told twice, pecking Hayden’s cheek as he took a seat next to Cody and going over to help her pop.
So how’s your new boy? Josh told me you two have been talking nonstop since the club, Hayden signed, wiggling his eyebrows at his brother-in-law and nudging his side.
“He’s not mine,” Cody groaned, throwing his head against the counter.
Hayden let out a barking laugh, clapping Cody on the back and shaking his arm to get him to look up at him. Come on mate, you know I’m just teasing. I’m happy you have a new friend, that’s great.
“Yeah, now I have two whole mates,” Cody said through a sarcastic laugh before taking a big gulp of his beer.
Hayden shoved Cody’s head playfully. Better than nothing. Plus if they’re really good friends, and I know Josh is, then it doesn’t matter how many you have.
“Watch out pop, Hayden might take your place as being the old wise one,” Cody teased, seeing his father chuckle.
And before Cody could utter anything else he felt two bodies climbing on him just before arms wrapped around his neck and a strong pair of lips kissed his cheek.
“I hate all of you,” Cody groaned, the twins climbing and pulling on him as his dad kissed him all over his face.
Love you too big guy, Louis signed, kissing his son one more time before finally letting him go. “What’re we making over here handsome? It smells delicious.”
As soon as he stood on his toes and kissed his husband though every single person in the room started yelling at them, telling them to stop and how gross it was, even Hayden at this point couldn’t bare it anymore.
“Harry I love you, you know that?” Louis said, bothering them all a bit more and making the younger lad laugh into his neck as he pulled him impossibly closer to his chest. “I love you so much, you know what I was thinking? We should have another baby. 7 kids, let’s do it.”
“No! No! No!!” Rory screamed from his brother’s lap. “No more kids, you two are done!”
“We’re too old for that love, no more kids,” Harry said over Louis’ laughter, pecking his lips and patting his bum.
“Oh come one, it’s only my sideburns that are a bit grey,” Louis said, brushing his fingers through his hair.
Harry raised his eyebrows at his husband, the 42 year old having some nice grey streaks in his hair along the side and in the back. He wouldn’t be surprised if Louis was one of those silver foxes by the time he was 50, but even then he’d be just as handsome as ever. Harry was lucky enough where he had absolutely no grey hairs, well not yet anyway.
“Yeah I’m surprised you guys aren’t breaking hips yet or throwing out your backs,” Cody teased as he adjusted the twins on his lap.
“Excuse me you little brat, I’m in fantastic shape,” Louis said and signed in a matter of fact tone. “I have a charity game coming up and I gotta keep in shape.”
“First time Tommo is playing in like 10 years, don’t die dad,” Cameron said with raised eyebrows, earning a glare from his father.
“Why do all my children hate me?” he muttered, Harry kissing his cheek and laughing quietly before finishing up dinner. “I’ll be more than fine, I’ve been training with the team every practice and let’s not forget I coach them.”
“True, he’s been looking good. Even beating out a few of the boys on the team,” Hayden agreed.
Louis smiled happily to himself, sticking out his tongue to his snickering kids. “This is why I like working with him, he’s nice to me.”
“He’s still a kiss ass dad, will be until the day you die,” Cody said, Hayden looking at him wide eyed and Alexis let out a booming laugh.
“Cody language!! Be nice to daddy and Hayden!” Charlie signed and said as she ran into the kitchen and leaped into her father’s waiting arms.
“Yeah, be nice to daddy!” Louis said, glaring at his son. “Thank you love, your brother is just cranky his little crush or whatever hasn’t answered his texts I’m sure.”
Cody went completely still, everyone in the room looking to him and making his cheeks go red. He couldn’t do anything, didn’t know what to say as all eyes were on him. Cody didn’t say anything at all though, instead, he shook his head, got the twins off his lap and walked out of the room.
“Cody I-” Louis stopped himself, running a hand over his face as he realized he probably shouldn’t have said that.
Harry bit his lip, looking to his husband and letting out a small breath as he knew their son was undoubtedly furious and embarrassed. “You start serving dinner, I’ll talk to him,” he said quietly, earning a head nod and apologetic look from Louis.
He knew Cody went up to his old bedroom so on his way up the stairs he knocked on Rosie’s door, telling her dinner was ready before walking to his son’s room and pressing his button. Harry wasn’t all that surprised Cody didn’t answer his door, but at least he knew he was there so he wouldn’t startle him when he walked in.
As soon as he walked into the room he saw Cody pacing, running his fingers through his curls and letting out a few deep breaths.
Harry placed a gentle hand on his son’s shoulder, making the 18 year old jump slightly before he saw who it was and slowly backed away from him. Buddy you know your dad didn’t mean it. And you know we’re family, we tease and make fun of each other and-
“Yeah but all of you are saying it!” Cody snapped, making his father go quiet. “I don’t like him like that! I’m not gay!!”
Harry just looked at him for a second, seeing how mad Cody was, how insulted he seemed. “And what’s so wrong with being gay?” he asked quietly, signing it as soon as Cody met his eyes.
“No pop I didn’t mean it like that- I…” Cody stopped himself, shaking his head and letting out a deep breath. “I’m sorry…”
He didn’t know what to say to his son as he seemed so disgusted with the thought of being gay. Harry was hurt and by how Cody was looking back at him he knew the impact of his words.
What’s so bad about the idea of being gay? You know none of us, especially us, aren’t going to judge you, Harry signed slowly as he looked at his son softly.
All Cody did was shake his head again, biting his lip and looking to the ground so his father wouldn’t see his eyes pooling with tears. “I can’t talk to you about this.”
Harry took a careful step towards his son, gently placing his hand on his shoulder and it was almost immediate Cody shoved him off, rushing past him and out of the room.
He wanted to yell after him, to scream for him to stop running away but he couldn’t. So Harry followed after his son, seeing the 18 year old basically run down the stairs and head for the door. He tried to stop him, tried to grab his arm so he could see him sign and tell him to stay but it was too late. Cody was already out of the house, slamming his car door and rushing out of the drive way.
Harry couldn’t believe his son just left like that, how he stormed out without a single word, refusing to talk to him. And when he made his way into the dining room all eyes were on him, no one eating or talking, just looking at him and waiting for him to tell them what happened.
“You guys eat, it’s okay,” Harry said quietly before setting his eyes on his husband. “Follow me,” he said, nodding towards the kitchen.
Louis bit his lip but nodded anyway, pushing himself out of his chair and walking after the younger lad. “Did he leave?” he asked quietly as soon as they were out of the kids’ earshot.
“Yeah,” Harry breathed out, still trying to understand why Cody was so angry.
“Fuck, Harry I’m sorry, it was a joke, you know it was,” Louis said quickly, feeling terrible for making Cody so upset that he felt the need to leave.
“Louis he’s furious,” Harry said seriously, wanting his husband to understand how hurt their son was. “Just at the mention of him being possibly gay he seemed so insulted, like that’s the worst thing that could ever happen to him.”
“What?” Louis barely whispered, not believing it.
Harry bit his lip, not even sure what to think, not sure what to say at the thought of how his son acted. “He said he couldn’t talk to me about it… Do you think he’s ashamed or something? I mean I know we never really talked to him about being straight or bi or gay but I didn’t think we had to… I just thought we could all be open about everything, that if one day he brought home a boy it wouldn’t be any different than him bringing home a girl.”
Louis shook his head, himself thinking the same thing but he doesn’t understand why Cody was so mad at just the thought of being gay. “I’ll facetime him later or maybe stop by his flat… I’m so sorry.”
“I know you are love,” Harry said quietly, wrapping his arms around the older lad and kissing his head. “But come on, for now we’ll eat dinner and spend some time with Al and Hayden while they’re here.”
The only thing Louis could do was nod, following his husband into the dining room and trying to ignore the worried looks their kids sent them.
*~*
“Hey.”
Hi! TJ signed happily as he saw the curly haired lad gesture into the flat. Wow… Your place is beautiful, he signed, his jaw going slack as he walked in and looked around. How old are you again? Are you sure you invited me under the right pretenses? I’m not looking for some pimp, he signed jokingly.
Cody almost let out a snort as he saw what the younger lad signed, letting out maybe a too loud laugh and shaking his head. “I’m not a pimp, I swear,” he said, closing the door and leading TJ into the living room to sit. “I’m 18, I just have a good job.”
And what kind of job can an 18 year old uni student get where they can afford something like this? TJ asked, still in shock as he looked around and Cody took a seat next to him on the couch.
Cody bit his lip, not sure if he should tell TJ about his job, and his money. He paid for everything himself, his flat, his car, his food and he has two jobs, but it was only one of them that really paid for everything he had. He refused any help from his dads, he didn’t need it. But he knew the younger lad liked him for him, he wouldn’t end up using him for his money.
“Well believe it or not but I really love movies,” Cody started off sheepishly. “I actually study software engineering and animation at uni, ya know to work on animated movies, but that’s besides the point,” he laughed nervously as he scratched the back of his neck. “So when I used to go to the movies when I was younger it was really difficult because there weren’t any captions, and when I had just started uni I came up with an idea that would allow the deaf to go to the movies and understand what’s going on.”
And this idea made you a millionaire, TJ teased, only to see the older lad shrug and try to hide his smile. Holy shit! What did you make?! What was this idea?!
“Easy, geez,” Cody chuckled, seeing him freak out. “I came up with this device that’s like glasses and when the deaf go to the movies they put them on and can see the captions, almost like 3-D glasses, but specifically for captioning.”
TJ sat there completely still for a moment, just staring at him, his mouth opening and closing. That was you…? he asked slowly, the older lad nodding and looking at him nervously. I read about that in one of my classes! I can’t believe you came up with that!!
Cody let out a relieved breath, not even sure what to say as he saw TJ’s shocked face.
That’s just so crazy… Like you came up with the idea, got a team together and built a prototype, sold it to Sony and it’ll be in theaters within the next few months… TJ signed, still trying to believe it. Do you realize that you’ve changed lives and the world? This is crazy!!
“I just wanted to go to the movies and know what was happening,” Cody chuckled, earning and eye roll and shove to the arm from the blue eyed lad. “But I dunno, I mean my family was really proud, my dads especially,” he said quietly.
Dads?
Cody sat there still for a second, nodding slowly and clearing his throat. “Yeah dads, like two of them.”
TJ hummed even though Cody couldn’t hear him and nodded back, offering him a small smile. Well what you created is amazing, you should be proud of yourself too.
“I’m just a uni student who works at a music shop,” Cody shrugged, seeing the younger lad eye him playfully. “And I might be a pimp.”
At that he saw TJ let out a barking laugh, covering his mouth with his hand and trying to calm down. You’re not that funny, he signed, pressing his lips together to keep his laughter in.
“Oh really?” Cody asked with raised eyebrows. “I think I’m pretty funny, I have you laughing at everything I say.”
Even at that TJ had to keep a laugh in, looking away from the curly haired lad so he couldn’t see his cheeks heating up.
Cody smiled back at him, tapping his thigh so he could look at him. “I was going to order some food, do you want anything?”
I thought you went to dinner at your parent’s house? TJ asked confused, the older lad texting him that earlier today.
At that Cody’s smile fell, biting his lip and looking to the floor as he thought about how he left his dads’ house earlier. “Yeah I uhm, I was there just for a quick visit, but I didn’t eat,” he said quietly, pushing himself off the couch to get a take out menu.
TJ furrowed his eyebrows, watching Cody walk into his kitchen and rummage through the drawers for a menu. But he didn’t understand why just at the mention of dinner he seemed so upset. From what the curly haired lad had told him he was exceptionally close with his family, his dad especially, he didn’t get his sudden mood change.
“So you hungry?” Cody asked from the kitchen, looking back over to the younger lad.
Sure, I could eat, TJ signed, offering him a small smile but just seeing Cody nod back before looking back to the menus.
He just sat there in silence until Cody came back with a few menus, taking his seat next to him again and asking him to pick out what he wanted to eat. And TJ just pointed to whichever one Cody seemed to be most interested in, not really caring.
As soon as the two picked out their dinners Cody got his computer out, ordering it online and slumping into the couch as soon as he paid for it and put his computer aside.
So you live here by yourself? TJ asked, trying to get a conversation going.
“No, Josh lives here with me, but he’s over at his girlfriend’s most of the time. It'd probably be easier if he moved out and in with her,” he breathed out, knowing Josh gets nervous at the thought of leaving him all by himself for too long, thinking he’ll get lonely.
TJ nodded, biting his lip as he tried to think of something else to say or ask. The older lad was just looking to his lap, playing with his fingers, something clearly on his mind. So he tapped Cody on his leg, getting his attention and letting out a small breath.
What’s wrong?
“Why does something seem wrong?” Cody asked confused.
You’re just being quiet… TJ signed, biting his lip and shifting on the couch so he was facing him.
“I’m always quiet,” Cody shrugged.
Only when you want to be, TJ signed with raised eyebrows, even only knowing the older lad for a week now he knew he could be quite the talker when you got him started.
Cody shook his head, letting out a scoff as he crossed his arms over his chest.
TJ tapped his leg again, waiting until Cody picked his head up to look at him. I may not know you all that well but I know you’re upset… You can talk to me about it you know…
Cody looked away from him again, just about ready to open his mouth, tell him he was really okay before he saw the light above his tv go off, signalling someone was at the door. “Excuse me,” he said quietly, pushing himself off the couch.
But as soon as he opened the door he let out a deep breath at seeing who it was, taking a step closer into the hallway so TJ couldn’t hear them.
“What?” he asked, seeing his dad standing there, clearly trying to figure out what to say.
Cody I… I’m so sorry that I made you so upset, you know I didn’t mean to, Louis signed, praying his son would forgive him.
And Cody just looked back at him for a second before raising his eyebrows at him. “Is that it then? Cause I have someone here, I don’t want to talk about this and-”
Is it him? Louis asked, trying to peer into the flat. Can I meet him?
Cody quickly stopped his dad as he was trying to walk into his flat. “No, can you please just go?” he asked annoyed.
Louis stopped in his tracks, seeing just how mad his son was at him. Are you really that upset about what I said?
Cody let out a deep breath as he shifted his weight on his feet, not wanting to talk to his dad or his pop about what had him upset, he couldn’t. “Dad please go,” he said quietly.
Louis didn’t know what to do as he saw how Cody was looking at him, how he didn’t want to listen to him or talk to him at all. Well when you’re ready to talk you know where to find me…
“Yeah,” Cody said, nodding at his father and raising his eyebrows, waiting for him to leave.
And Louis just nodded back at his son, pressing his lips together before slowly turning around and heading towards the lift.
Cody closed the door as soon as he was gone, letting out a deep breath and making his way back to the couch, seeing TJ’s eyes locked on him.
Who was that?
And of course Cody should’ve expected that. “It was uhm, well, one of my dads just stopped by real quick.”
Really? TJ perked up. What’d he want? How come he didn’t come in?
“You know, you have a lot of questions tonight,” Cody hummed.
TJ opened his mouth, stopping himself before slowly bringing up his hands. Sorry, I just thought you said you were close with your dad…
Cody rubbed his hands over his face, knowing he was being rude to TJ when he didn’t deserve it in the slightest. “No I’m sorry I’m being such a dick,” he muttered. “I am close with my dad, really close with him but things just got tense tonight when I was over there between him and me and my pop…” Cody bit his lip, locking his gaze on his hands. “And I’m sorry, you don’t want to listen to this it’s really-”
No, it’s okay, TJ reassure him with a small smile. So what happened with them that made you so upset?
Cody shook his head, not sure if he could explain this to him, he didn’t even know TJ. But he did want to talk, to tell him some things that were on his mind. “You uhm… You know I have two dads but my relationship with them is complicated,” he said quietly, glancing over at the younger lad who was listening carefully. “My dad and I are really close, basically best mates but my pop and I… Ever since I was little we’ve struggled to have a decent relationship and now we’re both trying really hard but tonight my family just said some things that tipped me over the edge and then I said some things to my pop that I shouldn’t have and just-...” Cody stopped himself, rubbing his hands over his face frustratedly.
It’s okay, TJ signed, reaching a careful hand over and rubbing the older lad’s back, feeling him lean into his touch. What did they say that made you upset? he asked, but it was immediate Cody shook his head. Okay… Well how come you and your pop aren’t as close as you and your dad?
“I’ve never,” Cody cleared his throat, not believing he was actually going to tell him this. “W-well I’ve only told Josh and my ex about this before, no one else,” he said quietly, chancing a glance over to the younger lad and seeing him nod as he continued to rub his back to calm him down. “But my… shit, I’m sorry.”
Cody shook his head, not sure if he could even say it but as soon as he felt TJ fully wrap his arm around him and pull him into his side he relaxed. He really liked the younger lad’s hands, how big they were, how thick, how it felt like with one touch, with just one simple motion everything seemed like it was going to be okay.
“My pop is the reason I’m deaf…” he said, not sure how quiet he was, if he whispered it, or if TJ heard him at all, but he figured the younger lad did because his hand stopped running up and down his side. “He got in a car crash just before I was born and because of that I’m deaf… And for my entire life he and I just never got along all that well but lately we’ve been trying really hard to but I fucked up tonight and I really hurt him but I can’t talk to him and my dad about it, I just can’t.”
TJ sat there, not sure what to say, if there was anything he could as he heard the older lad. He wanted to ask what happened tonight, wanted to tell Cody he could talk to him about anything, that he could help. But he didn’t think he’d tell him what happened tonight, he seemed more than frustrated over it.
You know you can talk to me about anything, he signed, looking at the curly haired lad softly. Whatever it is you and your dads fought about, or why your dad stopped by here… You can tell me. I mean, I really appreciate you trusting me and everything, for telling me something that was clearly hard for you.
Cody swallowed thickly, not moving from TJ’s side, letting him hold him, letting his hand travel up and down his back as he rested his head on the younger lad’s shoulder and let out a deep breath.
He couldn’t talk to him, couldn’t tell him what was on his mind because even he didn’t know. Cody was more than lost, he had no clue how he was feeling, why he was feeling like this and he knew he couldn’t try to form it into words, especially with TJ. He didn’t want to think about this anymore, he felt like he’s been confused for far too long.
“Can you just tell me something good? Distract me,” Cody said quietly, letting the blue eyed lad pull him impossibly closer to his side and feeling himself tucking his head into his neck before TJ brought up his hands to sign.
Well when I first learned to walk I had an awful habit of taking all of my clothes off and running around in my diaper. It didn’t matter if I was home or in public clothes were and still are the most confining things to me on the planet. And my dad won’t admit it but he liked to run around in his boxers with me too.
Cody muffled his laugh into the younger lad’s neck, feeling TJ’s chest vibrating and he knew he was laughing too. “So what you’re telling me is that at the ripe old age of 1 you became a stripper and have been perfecting your talent ever since?”
Oh, you’d be shocked at my skills, TJ winked at him, hearing Cody let out a barking laugh before he heard someone knocking at the door. Someone is here.
Cody actually groaned, not wanting to get up but he figured the food was here and that seemed to be a good enough reason. So he detangled himself from TJ’s grasp, opening the door and sure enough there was the food delivery guy.
He happily took the bag from him, saying a quiet “thank you” and practically skipping back over to the couch just at the thought of finally eating, even if it wasn’t his pop’s food.
Cody knew he had to talk to both his dads, knew he had to apologize for what he said. But for right now he wanted to focus on the blue eyed boy next to him, wanted to see him smile and watch as he threw his head back because he was laughing too hard. He wanted to forget for a little while that he was different, that he was deaf, and with TJ he could.