Page 49 of The Road Home
Orson shook his head. "I can stay." Then remembering Harry couldn't hear him, he started to write.
"I read your lips. I'm fine. Let them fix my shoulder, then I'll sleep more. I'm tired. You can come back tomorrow, but don't worry about me." Harry brought Orson's hand to his chest. "I'll be okay." Then he looked at Jared. "Take care of him."
Jared nodded. "I will."
Orson shook his head.
"He's right. You can't do anything now. We'll come back tomorrow and see how the tests are going." Jared stepped back. "I'll wait in the hallway for you."
As Jared left, Orson quickly wrote another note to Harry.
I'll be back as soon as I can. I have to go to the shelter and talk to them and run by and let the others know you're awake, but I'll come by as soon as I can. Are you sure you're okay?
"I'm scared, but I'll be alright. I just didn't know where I was or why I couldn't hear. I'll be fine until you get back. Get some rest. I want to hear more about Jared when you come back tomorrow."
Orson shook his head as his cheeks heated.
"Yeah, there is a story there." Harry laughed. "Go, I'm fine."
As the x-ray tech started to move everything into place, Orson was forced to step back. He stared at Harry for a minute, trying to decide if leaving was the right choice. He hated leaving him alone.
Harry waved at him and motioned to the door. "Go. I'll be alright."
Orson nodded, took a deep breath, and forced himself to turn and walk out the door. As he stepped into the hall, he was caught off guard by Jared waiting for him. Strong arms went around him, hugging him tightly.
Orson blew out a long breath as he accepted the hug, wrapping his own arms around Jared. "Thank you."
Jared kissed the top of his head. "He'll be okay."
"He will." Orson pulled back and smiled. "Thanks again for bringing me."
"Let's go home. I'll make you breakfast if you want. We can get an early start to the day and be back in time for his tests." Jared again pressed his hand to Orson's back as he led him down the hallway.
Even with the tiredness and worry, Orson smiled, enjoying the small touches and caresses Jared was giving him, wondering if Jared realized how much the small things made them appear like a couple to others. He wasn't about to say anything, but when the time was right, he would use the examples to show Jared that he could come out, that he could find love, and that when he did, the world wouldn't condemn him for it.
