taking a stand

Benny knew Keith was right, even if Keith's words were almost thunder.

"I don't see how you can even stay!" Keith scowled. "Can't you see..SHE WON'T LET YOU! GROW UP!"

Benny shut  his eyes tight. He didn't want to listen. They were suppose to be getting ready to go out to some faculty dinner Keith was suppose to go too. But here they were in Keith's livingroom. Benny guessed they were having their first fight. But he was just watching Keith shouted for the most part. Benny stood there sad. His Mom always had this effect on people. This was why his sisters never left with their husbands, and no one said a word of joy during the holidays. She kept a tight lid on all their lives. They were suppose to have excellent grades and stay at home.

"I know." Benny barely said above the whisper. "I..just..don't want to hurt her."

"How? She never has anything nice to even say to you. You..you have to get away from her...because ..if you don't..." Keith shook his head. "Its as if you are at her disposal. And..and..you know you are so much more. You are amazing, and if she chooses to ignore that. FINE. Just, just be with me. And if she tries to pull you back in. Well, you've got me to help you. I want to help you, Ben, you gotta know that. You have too."

Keith sighed as he straightened down Benny's lapel of the dark jacket he wore. Before he knew it, Keith was kissing him as some sort of forgiveness, Benny guessed. It made Benny smile. And then he remembered.

"We're gonna be late." Benny told him.

"I don't care." Keith smiled back. "I'd rather be with you." His lips found Benny's again. Benny really hadn't wanted to go to that dinner, anyway.