Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Trent slowly drifted to wakefulness. It was still dark in the bedroom thanks to the blackout curtains, but his eyes quickly adjusted enough for him to see the form in the bed next to him. Clay slept peacefully on his stomach with his hands wrapped around his pillow, the covers barely skimming the top of his ass, and a smile on his face where it was turned towards Trent.

Unable to resist the temptation before him, Trent shifted closer, his morning erection pressing into Clay’s side. Snaking an arm around Clay’s waist, Trent began to pepper kisses across Clay’s exposed shoulders and neck.

Clay began to drift to wakefulness at the featherlight kisses. The gentle touch feeding his morning arousal, he groaned and shifted.

“Good morning, love.” Trent whispered in Clay’s ear before returning to his task of covering every inch of Clay’s skin in kisses.

“Mmmm, morning.” Clay smiled into his pillow, keeping his eyes closed as he drowned in sensation.

Trent kissed down Clay’s spine to the swell of his ass and his hand came down and kneaded the flesh. Once he had Clay moaning and shifting against the bed, he trailed his way back up to Clay’s ear.

“Why don’t you roll over for me.”

Clay stole a quick kiss before flipping over, shifting to allow Trent free access to his naked body.

Snagging the lube off the bedside table where it had been discarded the night before, Trent knelt between Clay’s knees. Keeping eye contact with Clay, Trent kissed his boyfriend’s hard cock before slowly taking him into his mouth. As he worked him over, he slipped a finger inside Clay and began to slowly work him open.

Clay held the back of Trent’s head loosely, not wanting to push him but needing the physical connection. The combination of wet heat around his cock, the delicious pressure of Trent’s fingers stretching him, and that damned tongue, soon had Clay teetering on the edge of climax.

Recognizing the signs, Trent slowly withdrew his fingers and pulled off Clay’s dick. “You ready?”

“Always.” Clay responded breathlessly as Trent moved to hover over him.

Trent lubed himself generously, not wanting to hurt Clay even if he was still loose from their love making the night before, and slowly pushed in.

Shuddering at the sensation, Clay wrapped his legs around Trent’s waist and gripped his biceps. “Feels so fucking good.”

Smiling, Trent leaned down and kissed Clay hard as he bottomed out. They made out as Trent’s hardness pressed against all the right places inside Clay. Until finally, the younger man couldn’t wait another moment.

Pinning Trent with a seductive grin, Clay encouraged, “Come on, Trent. Fuck me.”

Happy to oblige, Trent pulled almost all the way out, then slammed all the way back in. Eliciting a surprised yet pleasurable wail from his lover.

Trent set a quick pace, as eager to see Clay fall to pieces around him as he was to find his own release. It didn’t take long!

“Trent!” Clay called out as he shuddered around Trent, his cum painting his stomach and chest.

Trent followed Clay over the edge, emptying himself into his boyfriend before stilling and lowering his head to Clay’s shoulder.

“Fuck …” Clay panted, still riding the high from his orgasm.

“Yeah.” Trent smiled.

“You’re amazing.”

“You too.” Trent wrapped his arms around Clay as he mouthed at his boyfriend’s neck, not caring about the mess on Clay’s chest. They relished the closeness of the moment, enjoying their lazy Sunday morning in bed together.

Clay’s arms wrapped around Trent and pulled him impossibly closer. He’d never felt so connected to another person as he did when with Trent. “I fucking love you so much!”

Trent pulled back enough to meet Clay’s gaze. “I can’t even put into words how much I love you, Clay.”

They lay in each other’s embrace for a long moment before Trent slowly pulled out and rolled off of Clay. “Wanna join me for a hot shower?”

Clay rolled his head to face Trent and raised a brow. “You just turned my body to jello and expect me to stand? Are you serious?”

Laughing, Trent stood and sauntered to the bathroom, talking over his shoulder. “I mean, I was going to wash you … thoroughly … with my tongue …”

Clay watched Trent disappear into the bathroom and heard the water turn on before Trent’s words fully registered. Eyes wide he rolled off the bed with a thud, scrambled to his feet, and quickly closed the distance to the bathroom.

Trent let out a burst of laughter as Clay barged into the shower and pinned him against the wall.

Clay accepted the mug of coffee Trent passed him with a smile before kissing his boyfriend. “Thanks.”

Trent took a seat on the barstool beside Clay and sipped his own drink.

“So, Ray’s at noon, right?” Clay leaned into Trent’s side and lay his head on his shoulder.

“Yep.” Trent pressed a kiss to the top of Clay’s head. “We still doing it?”

“Telling the team?”

“Yeah.”

“We have to eventually.” Clay sighed. He’d been dreading coming clean to the guys. Not because he was ashamed of loving Trent, but because Jason’s opinion meant the world to him and Clay didn’t know how their team leader would respond to the news two of his men were dating each other.

“I honestly think Alana will cut off our balls if we don’t say something soon.”

Lifting his head off Trent’s shoulder, Clay turned wide eyes to his boyfriend. “What?!”

Chuckling, Trent lay a hand on Clays. “She saw us at the beach the day you ran over Jason.”

“I did not run him over. He got in my way!”

“Either way, she spotted us before we found them. She told me then, and reiterated it at the airshow, that we need to tell the guys sooner rather than later. They’re not going to be oblivious for much longer and quite frankly, I’m tired of hiding us. I want to be able to hold your hand in public, put my arm around you at team barbecues, and occasionally … just to fuck with Sonny … kiss you where the world can see.”

Clay blushed. “You know I want that too, right?”

“Which is why we are planning to tell the guys at the barbecue this afternoon. No chickening out.”

“Copy.” Clay smiled as he sipped at his hot coffee.

“How is your knee feeling this morning?”

“Fantastic. It doesn’t hurt anymore, full range of motion. I don’t see any reason why they won’t sign off tomorrow.”

Trent was relieved. The day after they spoke with Blackburn, Bravo had been spun up. Thanks to a rough HALO landing, Clay had hobbled away with a busted knee. Not life threatening in the least, more of a nuisance, but one that sidelined him from being in the field for a few weeks until it healed. His boyfriend had been climbing the walls with the need to get back out in the field.

Tomorrow morning Clay would find out whether he was cleared hot, or if they’d bench him for longer. Trent’s professional opinion, at least if Clay’s enthusiasm in bed was anything to go by, he would be by his side for the next spin up. As long as it waited until at least tomorrow afternoon.

Moments later Trent realized he’d jinxed them with his train of thought when his phone beeped notifying him Bravo was getting spun up.

“Really?” Clay groaned and dropped his head to his crossed arms on the countertop. “It couldn’t wait one more day?”

“Guess not.” Trent rubbed Clay’s back as he rose. Rinsing his mug, he placed it in the dishwasher, then headed to their bedroom for his go bag. “Sorry, Babe.”

Clay followed and watched Trent as he added a couple of last minute things to his bag, laughing when Trent double check to ensure he was packing his Bravo shirt and not Clay’s. He wished he could join the guys but knew there was no way he could get medical to sign off on a Sunday morning.

Trent stepped up to Clay and put his hands on his waist. “I’ll call you once I have details.”

Clay leaned forward and their foreheads pressed together. “Need you to be safe out there. I won’t be there to watch your six.”

“You know I’ll always do my best.” Trent pressed a kiss to Clay’s lips.

Clay tightened his grip on Trent, deepening the kiss for the few moments they could spare before Trent would have to leave.

Finally, unable to wait any longer, Trent reluctantly pulled back. “Call me, as soon as you have word. I don’t care if you have to leave a voicemail. I want to know. And we can talk to the team when we get back.”

“Copy.” Clay released a long breath and cupped Trent’s cheek. “I love you.”

“Love you, too.” Trent leaned in for one lass kiss. As he headed out the door he called over his shoulder. “Don’t do anything Sonny wouldn’t do!”

“That’s not a very high bar!” Clay called back with laughter in his voice and a wide smile on his face.

Clay slipped his phone back into his pocket. He’d just called Trent then sent Jason and the team a text letting them know the good news. He was medically cleared to return to the field and would be with them on their next spin-up. Although Clay trusted his brothers, he was relieved he would be with them again soon to watch their backs.

As he rounded the corner on his way to his cage, Lieutenant Commander Fletcher from Charlie stopped him.

“Spencer, have you been cleared by medical yet?”

“Yes, Sir. Paperwork is being pushed through now.”

“Perfect. We’re getting spun up, but Carlos is out for a family emergency. We need a sniper, and you’re it.”

“Yes, Sir. Does Blackburn know?” Clay knew Jason hated when they spun up with a different team, and the unspoken rule was no one went with Charlie. But, Clay couldn’t ignore a direct order.

“It’s being handled. Beau and the guys have been briefed. He’ll meet you at your cages and give you a run down so you can grab what you need. Wheels up in thirty.”

“Copy, Sir.” Clay didn’t wait to be dismissed. He simply turned on his heels and high tailed it to his cage.

Beau was waiting for him at the door to Bravo’s cages. “Hey, man. I appreciate you coming with. We really need overwatch on this one and with Carlos out I don’t have many options.”

“I get it.” Clay unlocked his cage and opened his bag to make sure all his needed items were there. “What are we looking at?”

Beau spent the next fifteen minutes going over the mission details as Clay packed his bag and gathered his gear. By time that was accomplished, they had just enough time to get to the C-17.

Once in the air, Clay was pulling out his phone to call Trent and give him a heads up when Beau called for everyone to gather and finalize the mission plans. For the next couple of hours Clay tried to hold in his frustration. He was getting a first-hand view of why Fuller and Hayes did not get along. The planning, which would have taken Bravo at most sixty minutes, took over two and a half hours, barely leaving any time for the guys to rest before they would be landing in South America. Not to mention Bravo could have pulled it off with five men, Davis manning ISR, and no overwatch. His presence wasn’t as critical as they led him to believe.

By time mission planning was completed, the Wi-Fi on the plane had gone out and although the technicians were working to restore it there was no way for Clay to call his team. He had to simply hope Fletcher was telling the truth and communicated with Jason or Blackburn. Otherwise, well, heads would roll. He just hoped it wouldn’t be his.

Clay kept an eye on Charlie as they moved through the compound below. He was in a tower outside the fence, but he could see the majority of the area below. As of yet, the intel had been spot on regarding number of hostiles. Charlie should be moving to exfil shortly and they’d be headed home.

Except it’s never that easy. A column of dust in the distance drew Clay’s attention and he quickly keyed his comms. “Chsrlie One, be advised, you have a convoy headed your way. I see at least two technicals.”

“Copy, Bravo Six. We’re wrapping up here. Hold them off as long as you can.”

“Copy.” Clay already had his first target in his crosshairs. Without hesitation he sent the round down range and quickly followed it up with several others.

The next several minutes passed with Clay providing cover for Charlie as they finished SSE and began exfil. Despite his best efforts, the team came into heavy contact upon exiting the building.

Unfortunately, his constant fire gave away his position and before Clay could call it in or bug out, two RPGs were fired at the tower.

The already dilapidated building crumbled and Clay’s world went dark.

Chapter Text

Bravo was in high spirits as the C-17 sped through the sky back to VA Beach. They'd returned from their mission, all in one piece for once, to a message from Clay that he was officially cleared hot and they all enjoyed a beer in celebration.

Trent settled into his hammock and listened to his voicemail from Clay … twice. He couldn't help but smile at the excitement in his boyfriend’s voice.

“What's got you grinning like a kid with a hand in the cookie jar?” Sonny nudged Trent’s hammock, causing it to sway.

“Nothing, Sonny.”

“See, now I'd be inclined to believe ya, except you've had that same smug grin on yer face a lot lately. You seeing someone?”

“Now why would I tell you?” Trent shifted his hat to cover his face. Trying to tune out Sonny.

“Broccoli, you got any insight into what has our number four so goddam smug lately?”

Brock raised a brow and thought back to that night he interrupted Trent. Yeah, sure he had a clue, but he wasn’t going to give in so easily.

“Oh come on! We’ve only got twenty hours left to figure this out.”

“And it’s gonna take you every second of it.” Ray laughed as he slapped Sonny on the shoulder.

“Okay, okay, okay … tell me this at least. What’s her name?”

It took all of Trent’s self control to not bust up laughing. “You’re never going to guess.”

Brock stood behind Sonny and silently chuckled. He at least had figured out it wasn’t a she this time. Whoever Trent was dating now, he was doing wonders for his best friend.

“Monica? Marie? Minerva? Maxine?”

Trent shook his head.

“Susan? Sally? Sierra?” Ray offered.

Jason strode closer, a wide smile on his face. “Erica? Erin? Eloise?”

“Really, Boss? Eloise?” Sonny scoffed.

“What? You picked Maxine!”

“Wrong letters.” Trent offered.

“Oh, come on Trent. Give him a clue at least or he’ll never let it go.” Brock pleaded. He didn’t want to listen to Sonny whine for the next nineteen hours or so.

Trent considered the request for a long minute before giving in. “C.”

“What was that?”

“I said, C.”

“Oooo, Courtney? Connie? Claire?”

“Cora? Chloe? Candace?”

“Charlotte? Cassidy? Celeste?”

Trent smiled as Cerberus jumped into his hammock and licked his face. It was almost as if the pup was reminding him he knew the answer.

Sonny scrunched his face up at the lack of response from Trent. Popping open another beer, Sonny considered his next move when it finally came to him.

“At least tell me this. Is the sex good?”

That question drew the attention of all of Bravo. No one had missed the pep in Trent's step the morning they spun up.

Remembering back to the night Sonny showed up at Clay’s apartment, Trent smirked, nudged Cerb down, removed his hat, stood from his hammock, and squared up to Sonny. “Sonny, it has been the best sex of my entire life. I’ve had more orgasms in the last three months than you’ve probably had in years.”

Sonny’s face turned beet red, his jaw dropped, and he finally backed up with hands raised in surrender. “That was way too much information there, Four.”

Trent settled back into his hammock, replaced his hat over his eyes, and smirked. “I thought you learned not to ask questions about your teammates sex lives.”

Jason, Brock, and Ray dissolved into laughter at Sonny’s expense

“Oh, by the way …”

Sonny perked up and looked back to Trent.

“… I never said I was seeing a woman.”

Eric rubbed his face with both hands. He just learned way more about Trent’s and Clay’s sex lives than he ever wanted to know. The hazards of working with Bravo Three.

At least now Sonny dropped the line of questioning. Although, at Trent’s final comment he fully expected the breacher to pick up the train of thought later.

As Bravo slipped off to sleep, Eric wondered how much longer the boys would keep their secret.

Walking into the DEVGRU hospital brought a lot of memories to the surface. The ER was where Naima met Ray, after all.

“Mrs. Perry, thank you for coming in.” Captain Rabon smiled as he approached the nurse.

“Please, call me Naima. And I’m happy to help, Captain. Where do you need me?”

“ICU. Connie is the charge nurse and she’ll get you squared away. I’ll be making my rounds up there shortly.”

Rabon introduced Naima to one of the intake nurses who guided her up to the ICU. The base hospital had been short staffed lately and Naima had volunteered to lend a hand.

“Naima? I’m Connie. Thank you so much for coming!”

“Oh, not a problem. What can I do?”

“Let me get you familiar with our patients, then I’ll have you take a couple.”

“Of course.”

The next ten minutes were spent going over each case in the ward. As she settled in at the nurse’s desk, Naima smiled. Taking a shift or two on base may not seem like much, but she still felt like she was making a difference.

Naima leaned back in her seat at the nurses’ station and looked at all the occupied rooms. Thankfully there weren’t many, and all the patients were doing well for the moment. Needing to stretch for a bit, she walked a lap around the floor and was nearing the corner furthest from the nurse’s station when a closed door caught her eye. I thought this door was open earlier.

“Naima, can you come help me in room three twelve?”

Turning back to Connie, she nodded. She wouldn’t have a chance to follow up on the closed door until later.

It ended up taking two hours. “Hey, Connie, who's in room three twenty? You didn’t cover their case when I came in.”

Confused, Connie looked to Naima. “We don’t have anyone in there, why?”

“Oh, my mistake. The door was closed so I assumed there was a patient.”

“What?” Connie stood and strode towards the room in question. The door to unoccupied rooms always remained open.

Curious, Naima followed. She never expected what awaited them on the other side of the door.

As the inside of the room came into view, they noted a bed … with a patient. Flipping on the light Connie gasped. “Who is that?”

Naima moved further into the room and her heart dropped. “Get help in here, now!”

Connie slammed her palm into the Rapid Response button as Naima rushed to the bed.

“Clay? Hey, I need you to wake up.” Naima quickly scanned her husband’s teammate. Her heart raced as she took his vitals. “What happened to you, Clay?”

“Do you know this man?” Connie noted not only Naima’s response to finding him, but the utter lack of monitors and meds hooked up.

“He’s my husband’s teammate.” Naima’s heart broke at the sight of Bravo’s youngest. “Come on, Clay. Open your eyes!”

Clay groaned as his eyes opened a fraction.

“There you are.”

“Naima?” Clay whispered, his voice hoarse and barely audible.

“Can you tell me what’s wrong?”

The room began to fill, and Connie briefed the nurses and Captain Rabon on what they’d found.

“Hurts.” Clay closed his eyes again and tears ran down his cheeks.

Naima gently wiped Clay’s tears away as Rabon began his assessment.

“Did you get anything out of him?” Rabon turned to Naima who was holding the patient’s hand.

“Just that he hurts.”

“Let’s get him to imaging, see if we can figure out what’s going on.” Rabon started barking orders. “Connie, get on the phone with security. I want to know who brought him in, who assessed him, and who left him here like this.”

Naima stood in the middle of the room as they wheeled Clay out. Only after he was out of sight did she drop to her knees and let out a sob. She had thought Clay was still recovering from a busted knee. But, the injuries she could see indicated the young man had been in the field recently, and had been severely injured.

Pulling herself together, Naima wiped her eyes and strode purposefully to the nurses station. She had a couple of calls to make, one now, and the other once they had a diagnosis on Clay.

Unlocking her phone, she called Alana.

Two hours had passed since Naima found Clay abandoned in a hospital room. She still had a few hours on her shift, but she sat beside her close friend as they awaited word on Bravo’s youngest in between caring for patients.

When it finally came, the two women sat heartbroken.

“Has anyone called Trent?” Alana finally asked, after they’d digested the gravity of Clay’s condition.

Naima met Alana’s gaze. “You know?”

“I do, Jason has yet to figure it out.” Alana couldn’t help a small smile.

“Ray is still clueless too. Although I’ll never know how they can be so perceptive in the field and yet miss what is right in front of their faces at home.”

“They seem so happy together. I hope they get the courage to tell Bravo soon.”

Naima nodded. She prayed Clay pulled through so they could. “I asked them not to call Trent until we had word on his condition. Told Connie I would handle the notification.”

“Probably best he hears it from one of us anyway.”

Nodding, Naima stood and strode to the window as she pulled up the number for Blackburn’s sat phone. She knew better than to call the guys directly.

Blackburn woke to the sound of Bravo up and moving again. Glancing at his watch, he noted they should be about forty minutes from base so figured he might as well be up now too. He was just about to join the boys when the sat phone rang.

“Blackburn.”

“Eric, it’s Naima.”

Eric’s heart dropped. There were only a handful of reasons Naima would be calling the sat phone and none of them were good. He turned his back to the team. “Who?”

“It’s Clay.” Eric closed his eyes and swallowed hard. “He was found two and a half hours ago abandoned in an ICU room. Badly injured, no meds, no record of him being admitted.”

“How bad is it?”

“We’re still piecing things together, but what we’ve gathered from Charlie is that he was involved in an explosion and building collapse.”

“What do you mean ‘from Charlie’?”

“He was spun up with Beau. We were told you and Jason were informed.”

Eric looked to the back of the jet where Jason was horsing around with the team. “That would be incorrect, but I’ll address that later. What’s Clay’s diagnosis?”

Naima explained what the doctors found when they examined Clay. With each passing minute the weight on Eric’s shoulders grew.

“I need you to pass the information to Trent. But Eric, the boys don’t yet know about he and Clay.”

“Yeah, I know.” Eric blew out a long breath. “We’re about thirty minutes from landing. I’m going to piss Jason off and let you talk to Trent directly. You’re better equipped to explain Clay’s condition.”

“Understood.” Naima didn’t relish the thought of re-stating Clay’s injuries, but Eric had a point.

“Hang on one minute.” Eric swallowed hard as he moved to the top of the ladder to the upper deck. “Trent, need you here a minute.”

Thankful for the distraction from the team’s teasing, Trent quickly moved to the top deck. “What’s up?”

Eric spoke softly so his voice wouldn't carry. “Naima called. It’s Clay.”

The color drained from Trent’s face. Eric directed him to a seat and handed him the sat phone. As the medic began to speak with Naima, Jason’s phone rang.

“Naima?”

“He’s alive, Trent. But it’s not good.” Naima wished she could deliver this news in person, at least then she could offer Trent a hug.

“Tell me anyway … please.”

“Trent, he was in a building collapse. He has multiple fractured ribs, a bruised collarbone, his left shoulder was dislocated, bruised lungs and kidney, a concussion, too many laceration and contusions to count.”

“Blood loss, probably infection.” Trent listed off.

“Yes to both, but Trent. That's not the worst of it.”

“There's more?”

“He suffered severe bruising to his spine. The swelling is putting immense pressure on his spinal cord.” Naima swallowed hard, not wanting to be there bearer of this news. “Trent, he is paralyzed from the waist down.”

“No.” Trent breathed out. He closed his eyes as a single tear escaped.

“Captain Rabon believes it's temporary and that once we get the swelling down he will regain mobility, but we can't be for certain.”

“Is he in pain?”

“Therein lies one of our issues. It's being looked into, but he was found abandoned in an ICU room. It's almost as if someone put him there in the hopes he wouldn't be found until it's too late. We have no idea yet how long he was there, and there were no meds on board, no monitors, they didn't even give him a pillow or blanket.”

“I'm going to murder someone!” Trent growled.

“There isn't anything you can do until you land. Were getting his pain under control, and he is my only patient so I'm with him every minute. Captain Rabon is his doctor, and Alana is here too. He wont be alone again. We've got him until you can.”

“Thanks, Naima. I'll see you soon.”

Trent hung up the phone and lowered his head into his hands. Seconds later Bravo One exploded. He tuned Jason out, his mind too focused on the news about Clay.

Davis noted the broken look of Bravo Four, and heard Jason explaining to the guys what he just learned from Fuller. Eric had quickly shared the details with her while Trent was on the phone and she knew it was a hard pill to swallow, especially for Trent. Snagging a bottle of water, she headed for the medic.

“He's strong. He will pull through this.” Davis offered Trent the bottle and when he took it she rubbed his back in silent support.

“I can't lose him, Davis. He is the best thing that has ever happened to me. What do we do of he can't walk again? It'll crush him!”

“Would you still love him? Even if he were wheelchair bound for the rest of his life?”

Trent met Lisa's gaze, fire in his eyes. “I will love him in any condition, though any injury or illness, until I draw my very last breath … and then for eternity afterwards.”

“Then you make sure he knows that, and you stand by him every step of the way.” Lisa grasped Trent's hand and squeezed. “Besides, I still need you to drive Sonny mad with PDA.”

Trent finally let out a slightly amused chuckle. “He's gonna be so pissed.”

“Yeah, you're probably going to get an epic shovel talk.”

“Shouldn't Clay be the one getting the talk? I've known Sonny longer.”

“Yeah, but you're not his Battle Boo.”

Both smiled at the nickname. Neither had expected Clay and Sonny to be friends, and now they were inseparable.

“We are beginning our decent.” Eric informed them as he sat on the other side of Trent. “You, Sonny, and Brock can head straight to medical when we land. Jason, Ray, and I have some business to attend to.”

“Thanks.”

Naima checked over Clay’s vitals for the hundredth time since she spoke with Eric and Trent. She knew the guys were almost back, and she was thankful Clay would soon have Trent at his side.

“Jason just texted. They’ve landed and Brock, Sonny, and Trent are headed this way. He and Ray apparently have business to attend to.”

“I would hate to be in Fuller’s shoes right about now.” Naima knew how much Jason loathed Beau, and had essentially declared they weren’t allowed to pull any of Bravo to work with Charlie. “I’ve told the front desk to expect the guys, and to let me know when they arrive.”

Moments later Naima was informed three very pissed off SEALs were headed her way. She took one last look at Clay before heading to the elevators. She wanted to get a handle on them quickly so they wouldn’t cause a disturbance in the ICU.

Sonny looked to Brock as they rode the elevator to the Intensive Care Unit. Trent had been unusually quiet on the way over and although they were all concerned for Clay, Trent was on an entirely different level.

Unsure what to say or do, Brock simply shrugged his shoulders at Sonny’s questioning look. He determined to corner his best friend later and get a read on what was bugging him.

As the elevator doors opened, Trent strode quickly towards the nurses’ station only to be quickly met by Naima.

“Trent.” Naima quickly pulled the medic into a tight embrace. “He’s stable and we finally have his pain under control.”

Trent resisted the urge to break down in Naima’s embrace. He’d determined to hold it together, but the closer he got to seeing Clay the harder it was proving to be.

“You been with him?” Sonny asked once Naima released Trent and pulled him into a hug.

“He is my only patient. Alana is with him right now.” Naima hugged Brock as well, thankful they all came home in one piece.

“Where is he?” Trent was about to vibrate out of his skin with the need to see Clay for himself.

“Right this way. You will all keep yourself calm and quiet. We have other patients up here that need their rest.” Naima pinned the three operators with a stern expression before leading the way down the hall to Clay’s room. They’d put him on the less occupied side of the hall to allow Bravo more freedom to come and go.

Alana looked up as three members of Bravo stopped outside Clay’s room. The wall to the hall was all windows, and the curtains were open, so they were able to see Clay from where they stood.

Getting his first look at Clay, Trent’s heart shattered. His boyfriend looked so broken in the bed. Without a second thought he slowly entered the room.

Alana stood, drew Trent into a tight hug, and left the room.

Sonny and Brock went to follow only to be physically stopped by Naima and Alana.

“Give them a few minutes.” Alana’s no nonsense order stopped both men in their tracks.

Nodding, Brock moved to the side of the door but kept his focus inside the room. Sonny sidled up to him, clearly not happy about being denied going in to see Clay.

Trent slowly rounded the bed as he took in the plethora of monitors and IV’s hooked up to Clay. Dropping to the empty seat beside the bed, Trent took Clay’s right hand gently in his. His fingers finding Clay’s pulse in his wrist on instinct and checking it against the monitor to ensure it was working correctly. Tears pooled in his eyes as the gravity of the situation set in.

“I’m here, Clay.” Trent whispered.

Brock kept a close eye on Trent as he sat beside Clay’s bed and took his hand. The careful mask Trent wore slipped as he took in their teammate and Brock was sure he saw tears in his best friend’s eyes.

“Why do I feel like I’m intrudin on a private moment?” Sonny wondered aloud.

Realization slammed into Brock as he watch Trent lower his head to touch their clasped hands. “Because we are.”

“Now you’re not makin any sense, dog man.”

Brock turned from the room and met Sonny’s questioning gaze. “Put the puzzle pieces together, Sonny. Trent commented he’d been dating for three months. Told us the name of his significant other started with a C. He even told us he was with a man this time.”

Naima and Alana shared a private smile. At least one of the boys was finally paying attention.

“Clay’s been different, happier, the last few months.” Sonny stood quietly for a long moment before looking back into the room. “Wonder why they didn’t tell us. You think they don’t trust us?”

Brock shrugged, “We’ll have to ask them.”

“What’s going on? Why are we all standing out here?” Jason asked, confusion clear on his face. When no one answered him he went to enter the room only to be stopped by Alana’s hand on his chest.

“You will wait one, Master Chief.”

Jason went to argue, until he saw the serious expression on his wife’s face. Nodding, he backed up a step and looked into the room. They remaining members of Bravo looked on, waiting for the approval from the women to enter the room and check on Clay themselves.

Trent kept Clay’s hand gripped in his, needing the physical connection to the man in the bed. Clay’s pale features and physical brokenness a direct contrast to the lively man he left only three short days ago.

Lowering his head to their clasped hands, Trent blew out a long breath. He’d tried to keep his emotions in check, but he was about to lose the battle.

“Trent?” Clay whispered, never opening his eyes.

Trent stood and leaned closer to Clay, keeping his grip on his right hand while cupping Clay’s cheek with his left. “I’m right here, babe.”

“Hurts.”

Trent noted the button for his pain medication and quickly pressed it. “I’ve got you.”

“Scared.” Clay pressed his cheek into Trent’s hand as tears slipped down his face.

“It’s okay. We’ll get through this together, whatever comes.” Trent wiped the tears away as Clay slipped back to sleep.

Relief flooded Trent for a moment before his walls crumbled.

Jason was watching closely so noted the moment their medic fell to pieces. Trent pressed a kiss to Clay’s forehead before dropping back into the seat, lowering his head back to where their hands were clasped, and finally broke.

This time Alana didn’t stop Jason as he strode purposefully into the room.

Jason rounded the bed and gripped Trent’s shoulders in silent support.

Trent sobbed as everything from the last hour overwhelmed him.

Fighting back his own emotions, Jason squeezed Trent’s shoulders. “We’ve got you, both of you.”

Chapter Text

It had been an hour since Bravo Team landed and converged on the hospital. Trent had a few moments alone with Clay before Jason joined them to offer his silent support. Ten minutes later Naima entered the room to check Clay’s IV and vitals before allowing the rest of the guys to filter in.

Sonny approached the bed on Clay’s left side and took in the kid’s pale complexion. Not wanting to touch him anywhere that would cause additional pain, Sonny lay a hand on his knee. “Hang in there, Clay. We’re all here. We’ve gotcha.”

Brock squeezed Sonny’s shoulder. “You’re not alone.”

Ray hated that Clay had been abandoned in his time of need. The team hadn’t been there for him, and apparently neither were the medical staff assigned to care for him. If it hadn’t been for Naima, there would be no telling how long Clay would have had to suffer alone.

Pulling his wife into his side, Ray kissed the top of her head. “Thank you, for taking care of him.”

“I wish I could have done more.”

They all settled into chairs around the room, none mentioning how Trent didn’t move from Clay’s side and continually maintained physical contact.

Finally, Blackburn and Davis joined them and the team was all accounted for.

“We were going to tell you … at the barbecue.”

Trent’s words pulled everyone out of their own thoughts. The room had been silent, Bravo keeping vigil over their injured Kid for over an hour.

Rubbing a hand over his face, Trent shifted his chair so he could see the room and threaded his finger’s through Clay’s so they didn’t break contact. “We, um … we started dating right after the plague hit and Clay and I went to Coronado for training.”

“The plague?” Ray’s brows furrowed.

Trent laughed sadly. “Yeah, Clay’s name for the bug that went around DEVGRU … and apparently RJ’s school.”

Naima laughed softly, it definitely sounded like something Clay would come up with.

“We kept it to ourselves for three months.” Trent smiled softly at the memories of those early days. “We weren’t sure exactly what it was we had, or where we would end up. Wanted to get to know each other better before we said anything.

“We knew we couldn’t keep it secret for much longer. So, we went to Blackburn. Wanted to make sure we did things right, had all our ducks in a row. We were all planning to meet up at the Bulkhead the next night and we were going to tell you then …”

“But we got spun up and Clay was injured.” Sonny supplied, remembering the terror that coursed through the team when Clay’s chute malfunctioned and he landed hard. Thankfully it wasn't as bad as they expected.

“Yeah.” Trent shook his head at the memory. “So, Sunday we planned to ride to the barbecue together and let everyone know what had been going on. Wanted to be honest with you. Last thing we want is to upset team dynamics.”

“Wait … you’ve been together three whole months?” Sonny’s brow furrowed as he thought back over the last twelve weeks.

“More like four now. Was three when we talked to Blackburn.”

Sonny’s eyes widened in horror. “Oh hell no!”

“What’s wrong Sonny?” Davis looked at Sonny, concerned.

“I was at Clay’s house. Trent was there studying.” A look of horror crossed his face.

Realization dawned on Trent and he smiled his first real smile since Naima called.

“Then, today …” Sonny trailed off.

This time Trent started laughing out loud.

The women were confused until Jason explained, “Let’s just say Sonny now knows way more about Clay’s sex life than he ever wanted to.”

Davis closed her eyes and groaned. “So that’s what was going on.”

“Unfortunately.” Eric muttered under his breath.

Brock thought back over the last several months and remembered the night he went to Trent’s and learned his best friend had someone significant in his life again. They’d talked about it several times since then. Trent never gave any clues as to who it was, just shared that he was the happiest he’d ever been.

“Don’t worry, Sonny. You’re not the only one who’s almost caught us.” Trent smiled at the memories.

“What do you mean?”

“Well, Brock showed up on my doorstep one night. Clay and I were making out pretty heavy on the couch and I thought he was going to walk right in on us.

“When you came by Clay’s we actually were just napping. I was feeling pretty beat up after that mission and ended up falling asleep on the couch.

“Ray almost caught us when Clay was teaching me Arabic on the C-17.”

Jason shook his head in amusement. “You know, you two thought you were pretty slick, but my wife isn’t the only one who spotted you on the beach.”

Alana’s eyes widened. “You didn’t tell me.”

“Wasn’t my place to share.” Jason shrugged.

The team laughed at the exchange.

With the mood lightened, and no sign of Clay waking anytime soon, Blackburn ordered the guys to go home, freshen up, get a bit of sleep, and come back in no less than four hours.

The guys hugged Trent and said a few words of encouragement to Clay before heading out the door.

Once Jason and Alana were the only two left, Trent let out a long breath and met Jason’s eyes. “I’m sorry you found out this way. I swear we were trying to do it right.”

Jason knelt in front of Trent and gripped his shoulder. “Don’t apologize for this. It wasn’t your fault, and we dont hold it against you. We’ll talk about it again once Clay is awake and able, but know you have my support. You have from the very begining.”

“It's going to mean the world to Clay. He's been stressing about how you'll take the news. You’re the closest thing he has to a father.”

“Don't tell anyone, but he's my kid. I will support him in any and every way I can. He's happy with you, more so than I've ever seen him. And youre happier with him than anyone else you’ve been with. Why would I want to take that away from either of you?”

Trent offered a wobbly smile, thankful for Jason and his support and encouragement.

“Now, I'm gonna head to your place and get a few things for the two of you. Is there anything specific you want me to grab?”

“Clay will want my dark blue, zip-up, Navy hoodie. Last I saw it was in the dryer.”

“Copy. And stuff for him. Will I find some at your place, or do I need to go to his?”

“He has the left side of everything. The bed, the closet, the dresser, the bathroom sink.” Trent smiled a bit, thinking of all the touches of Clay in his apartment. “Could you also grab his book? He keeps the one he's reading at home in his nightstand drawer. I think its a Chronicles of Narnia book right now.”

“You got it. Ray is grabbing you a change of clothes from your cage. Naima is going to sit with Clay while you shower and change. I'm gonna grab your stuff and drop it by before heading home for a while.”

“Thanks, Jace.”

Alana wrapped her arm around Jason's waist when he stood. “If there's anything at all that you need, you let us know. I've got Hannah, Naima, Lisa, and your Mom all on speed dial and any of us will drop what we are doing to be here for you.”

“Shit." Trent closed his eyes and blew out a deep breath. “We were supposed to have dinner with my Mom on Monday night. I haven't even called her since we got back.”

“Why don't you let me take care of calling your mom. I'm sure she will understand considering the circumstances.”

“Thank you.”

Jason noted the deep lines of exhaustion on Trent’s face, “I'll see you in a bit, Trent. You try and get some rest.”

Jason guided Alana out the door with a hand on her waist.

Once alone with Clay, Trent first pressed the button for the pain pump, then carded his fingers through Clay’s golden hair. “I love you.”

He pressed a gentle kiss to Clays lips before settling in, laying his head on the bed, and dropped into a restless, exhausted sleep.

Chapter Text

“You go on up. Elaine said she would be here shortly so I’ll wait for her.” Alana pressed a kiss to Jason’s cheek. Letting him go up without her would also give he and Trent a moment alone.

“Thanks.” Jason entered the elevator and blew out a long, shaky breath.

Jason could handle the boys getting hurt. Had been there right beside them, patched them up more than once, but this was different. Not only was Clay hurt when with another Team, but he hadn’t received the care he needed … for the second time. Although the circumstances were different, the outcome was the same. He had failed Clay.

Watching Trent the last twenty-four hours was difficult. He knew how much Clay meant to their medic, and vice versa. He’d had a front row seat to the budding relationship. In fact, Jason probably noticed the deepening feelings between the two before they did.

Thankfully, neither Trent or Clay changed how they operated in the field. Although Trent’s worry lines would deepen a bit more when Clay was injured, or Clay more intently focused when Trent was in harms way, the two kept things strictly professional in the field. He’d been impressed, and was pleased to hear both Blackburn and Harrington agreed with his assessment and were allowing them to remain on the team together as long as that didn’t change.

When he got to Clay’s room, he paused outside the door. Although Trent had clearly showered and changed into a hoodie and sweats, he still sat in the hard plastic chair by Clay’s bed holding his hand. There was now a recliner in the corner and a pillow and blanket, but it didn’t look like Trent planned on making use of them.

“You know, you need rest too.” Jason spoke softly as he entered the room and took in Clay’s sleeping form before looking back to Trent.

“I have never been so scared as I was when Naima called.” Trent deflected, keeping his gaze on Clay’s face. “It’s not even that he was hurt. I know to expect that in our line of work.”

“But he wasn’t with us. You didn’t get the chance to look him over, patch him up ...” Jason understood more than Trent probably realized. “… to tell him you love him.”

“He’s scared.” Trent finally met Jason’s gaze.

“Afraid this’ll end his career?”

“Wouldn’t you be?” Trent swallowed hard as his emotions re-surfaced.

Jason shifted the recliner closer to Trent, sat, leaned his elbows on his knees, and let his clasped hands hang between his knees. Looking in Trent’s eyes he noted Clay’s fears reflected in them. “That’s something he’s going to have to work though. Doc thinks it’s temporary and he’ll be fine in a few days, few weeks at most.”

“God, I hope so. He’s doesn’t need anymore shit in his life to deal with.”

Jason nodded in agreement. “How are you holding up?”

Trent scoffed. “I feel like I’m falling apart. If I could just know for sure he’ll be okay ...”

“Doc says his infection is responding well to the treatment, and they’ll do some testing in the morning to assess his spine. He’ll be in pain for a while from his injuries, but they aren’t enough to keep him down.” Jason smiled. “Kid’s too stubborn to stay down anyway.”

This time Trent laughed with Jason.

“What’s really eating at you?”

Trent sat in silence for a long minute before putting voice to his concern. “What if I can’t be objective in the field anymore? This … I’m a mess. What if I can’t hold it together out there where you are all depending on me? What if one of you dies because I’m distracted?”

Jason reached out and gripped the back of Trent’s neck as the medic’s breathing began to grow more rapid with an impending panic attack. “Breathe, Trent! Just breathe.”

Trent blew out a shuddering breath before slowly falling in step with Jason’s slow and steady breaths.

“Three reasons. One, because you are the best medic in the Navy. I don’t care what anyone says, I’d rather have you on my team than a doctor any day. I know we put an immense amount of pressure on you, but you have always handle it with confidence and professionalism.

“Two, because this is an extenuating circumstance. You were under the impression Clay was at home and safe and that you would be joining him soon. To be jarred out of that sense of security with the news that not only had he been loaned out to Charlie, but injured and abandoned in a hospital of all places. Man, that would mess with anyone.

“Three … well, you’ve already proven that you can.” Jason shrugged. “There have been countless times over the last few months where you’ve had the chance to put Clay first, above the rest of us knuckleheads, and you haven’t. Yes, your focus at home may have shifted, as it should, but in the field ... Trent, you are still as solid as you’ve ever been, if not more so.”

Trent fought back tears, “Thanks.”

Elaine Sawyer strode purposefully towards the hospital’s front door. After receiving the call from Alana Hayes, she’d immediately gathered a few items, jumped in her car, and headed to the base, not caring how late it was getting. She had been looking forward to having her boys over for dinner. Ever since she met Clay in the hospital after the Blackhawk crash she’d had a soft spot for the young man. Learning he was the reason her son was so happy lately … well, that just solidified his place in her heart.

As she entered the hospital, Elaine spotted Alana near the elevators.

“I’m sorry you had to hear it from me.”

“Don’t be, dear. I’m sure my son has been pre-occupied.”

Alana guided Elaine to the elevator and hit the button for the ICU. “He’s taking it pretty hard. I think the circumstances surrounding Clay’s injury and hospital stay are weighing more heavily on him than the injuries themselves.”

“Trent loves that young man more than I ever imagined possible, and Clay loves him just as much if not more. I can’t begin to imagine how hard this is on them.”

Alana knew she always struggled when Jason was injured, and she wasn’t in the field with them. She didn’t know how Trent managed to not lose his mind. The fact Clay wasn’t with Bravo when he was hurt surely complicated things.

“Oh,” Elaine pressed a hand to hear heart as she peered inside Clay’s room.

Alana assumed Elaine’s reaction was to the sight of Clay. “Believe it or not, he’s actually improving.”

“No, I mean, yes, Clay looks like death warmed over, but that’s not …” Elaine trailed off.

Looking at the other two occupants of the room, Alana realized what Elaine was referring to.

“He never knew his father, you know.” Elaine stared at where Trent and Jason were bent close together, Jason’s hand gripping the back of Trent’s neck and their foreheads almost touching. “I did my best to raise him, but I always wished he had a man in his life to fill that father shaped hole.”

Tears threatened to spill over as Elaine watched Jason calm her son and she assumed offer words of encouragement. “It was a couple of months after he joined Bravo that I began to notice that hole was beginning to fill.”

Alana smiled softly. She knew exactly what Elaine was referring to. “I don’t know if Jason even realizes it, but he views each of those men as his sons. Well, except maybe Ray. He cares so deeply for them, wants to see them succeed in every way, and pushes them to constantly be better.”

“Thank you.”

“For what?” Alana’s brows furrowed in confusion.

“For letting your husband be the father my son never had. For adopting them into your family and loving them as your own.”

“Oh, Elaine. It has been my immense pleasure … most days. Those boys can get to be a handful sometimes.”

The women chuckled softly, and the sound drew the attention of both men in the room.

“Mom?” Trent stood, rounded the bed, and fell into his mother’s embrace.

“It’s going to be okay, Son.” Elaine rubbed her son’s back as he held on tight. It didn’t matter how old, or big, or successful he became, Trent would always be her little boy.

While Trent was wrapped in his mother’s embrace, Jason stood and pulled his wife into his side.

A long, pained groan from the bed caught everyone’s attention, and Trent quickly moved to Clay’s side.

Pain radiated from the small of his back down his legs. It felt as if they were being stabbed by millions of knives all at once.

He shifted in his bed, trying to alleviate the pain, but instead of relief, the fire ignited in his chest too.

Feeling as if he was being burned alive by the pain, he cried out, and his eyes flew open in search of the one he knew would make it all go away.

“Trent …”

“I'm right here, what's wrong?”

As Trent gripped Clays hand in his, he noted the minute shifting of the sheets below Clays waist and hope bloomed in his chest.

“My back, legs … on fire.”

“Alana’s getting the doctor. Just focus on me. Breathe through it, Babe.” Trent encouraged. He'd pushed the button for the pain pump, but it didn't seem to be making a difference. He ignored Clays white knuckle grip on his hand, trying to keep Clay’s focus on him and not the pain or involuntary tremors that began.

The room filled with medical personnel, and all but Trent were unceremoniously pushed from the room. Rabon knew exiling Trent at the moment would be counter-productive so allowed him to stay as he assessed Clay.

It was almost half an hour before the medical staff began to filter out and Jason, Alana, and Elaine were allowed back in the room.

Clay was groggy, but awake, at least for the moment, and it did Jason’s heart good to see him semi-aware.

“Well, good news is Clay is regaining feeling in his legs. It appears as though the swelling is improving. The bad news is, it’s going to be a long, uncomfortable night. We’ve adjusted his pain meds to help, but he’s going to have pins and needles below the waist, and his muscles are going to continue to tremor until feeling has fully returned. The staff will do what they can to keep him comfortable.

“It also looks like his fever is coming responding well to the antibiotics and is coming down. If he continues to improve overnight I am comfortable moving him from the ICU in the morning.” Rabon noted the looks of relief on everyone’s faces, including his patient’s.

“I am coming of shift, but will remain on call throughout the night. I will be back to assess you, Clay, at zero eight hundred hours.” Rabon then turned to Jason. “I would recommend you have the team wait until at least zero nine hundred before they come by. Give us time to get Clay moved downstairs.”

“Copy. Thank you, Sir.”

“Any other questions?” Rabon looked around the room, stopping with Trent.

“He’s going to be okay?”

“From everything I’ve seen, Clay is a strong, determined young man and there should be no reason why he can’t return to life as normal.”

Trent felt the tension drain from Clay at the words. Looking to his boyfriend, he noted the wide smile on his sleepy face.

“Thank you, Captain.”

“Now, I am only authorizing two people to stay the night, and Trent you need rest. If I hear from the nurses you refuse to sleep, I will have you removed for up to eight hours. Am I clear?”

“Busted.” Clay whispered with a smirk. The meds were really helping with the pain, even if it didn’t eliminate it entirely.

“Traitor.” Trent glowered at Clay, a look which was proven less intimidating with the smile on Trent’s face. “I’ll try and rest, I promise.”

“Good. Well, you all have a good night and I’ll see you in the morning.”

After Rabon left, Jason moved to the side of the bed. “Good to see you awake, Kid. Gave us quite the scare.”

“Sorry.”

“Not your fault, or anything we have to talk about right now. Tonight, you rest and heal. We’ll debrief later.” Jason leaned closer and spoke softly. “Rest easy, Clay. You did everything right.”

Trent gave Jason and Alana a hug and bid them goodnight at the door. Once the elevator doors closed behind them he turned back to the room to find Clay giving him a pointed look.

“Fine!” Trent raised his hands in surrender.

Elaine laughed as she shifted the recliner closer to Clay’s bed and gathered up the pillow and blanket.

Trent went back to Clay, placed his hands on either side of Clay’s face, and kissed him soundly. “I love you, so damned much.”

“Love you too.” Clay whispered, his eyes closing in contentment.

“Try and get some sleep. I’m right here if you need anything.”

“Go to sleep, Trent.”

Nodding, Trent kissed his forehead then settled into the recliner.

Elaine covered him with the blanket and kissed her son’s forehead. “Sleep well, both of you.”

Trent smiled softly … and promptly fell asleep.

Once Clay was sure Trent was out he turned to Elaine. “Thank you.”

“For what?” Elaine rounded the bed and fiddled with the blanket covering Clay until she was satisfied.

“For being here. For taking care of Trent.”

“Oh, that’s nothing. You’re my boys. Of course I’m going to be here.” Elaine smoothed Clay’s hair back and smiled at the man her son loved with all his heart. “Now, as I’m the mother, and you’re one of my sons, I am telling you to go back to sleep. I’ll watch over both of you.”

A deep feeling of belonging and contentment washed over Clay, and with one last look at his sleeping boyfriend, Clay closed his eyes and drifted back to sleep.

Elaine stood for a long minute and stared at her boys. She never imagined she would end up with two sons, even if she knew it was a possibility with Trent’s preferences. As she watched them sleep, though, she couldn’t imagine a better man for her son.

Chapter Text

Clay sighed in contentment as the last of the nursing staff did her final check. He was thrilled to be out of the ICU, and to have feeling back in his legs, even if they did still tremor at times and shoot pain down his spine.

“Your team has been in the waiting room for close to an hour. Would you like me to send them back?”

Clay opened his mouth to respond but Trent spoke first. “Could you give us a few minutes first?”

“Of course, just let me know when you’re ready.”

“Thank you.” Trent settled in beside Clay and grasped his hand in both of his.

“I’m going to step out.” Elaine squeezed Trent’s shoulders and offered Clay a smile. “I’ll wait outside, then go get your team when you’re ready. No rush.”

“Thank you, Momma.” Trent looked over his shoulder and smiled at his mother.

Elaine leaned down and pressed a kiss to the top of her son’s head before looking pointedly at Clay. “You feel better, young man.”

“Yes, ma’am.” Clay smiled widely, thankful for the woman who treated him as her own son, something which made him miss his Grammy fiercely.

Once the door closed softly behind Elaine, Clay rolled his head back to look at Trent. His boyfriend appeared exhausted, wrung out, and nervous. Clay’s brows furrowed. “What’s wrong?”

Trent swallowed hard, unsure how this conversation was going to go, but they needed to have it before the team came in. Trent met Clay’s eyes, “The team knows … about us.”

Clay took a long moment to think over Trent’s words and suddenly fear gripped him, concerned they reacted badly to the news. “Are they mad?”

“What? No!” Trent quickly clarified, suddenly realizing his choice of words and phrasing gave Clay the wrong impression. “Let me start at the beginning. We were about an hour out when Naima called Blackburn. After she gave him the news, he passed the SAT phone to me and let her explain the situation.”

Clay shook his head in confusion. “Wait, he went around Jason?”

“Yeah, turns out Jason was on the phone with Beau at the same time, but I didn’t learn that until after I’d seen you.” Trent drew in a steadying breath, his thumb gently rubbing the back of Clay’s hand. “Anyway, the second we landed Sonny, Brock, and I came right to the hospital. Turns out I wasn’t very good at hiding my feelings for you when I made it here, and Brock and Sonny put two and two together. Apparently Jason had already figured it out, and Ray wasn’t far behind putting the pieces together.”

Trent looked down at their joined hands. “I’m sorry I didn’t wait for you, or make sure you were okay with them finding out.”

Clay pulled his hand from Trent’s and swiped at the tear on Trent’s cheek. “Hey, look at me.”

Trent lifted his chin and met Clay’s blue eyes. “I’m not mad. We talked about telling them several times and the timing just wasn’t on our side. I’m actually relieved we don’t have to hide it anymore.”

“Yeah?” Trent pressed his hand to Clay’s on his cheek and leaned into the contact.

“Yeah.” Clay smiled, thankful he was able to help lift this burden from Trent. “I’m sorry you felt I’d be mad.”

“Honestly, I’m pretty sure I knew you’d be fine with it.” Trent shrugged.

“But exhaustion and the circumstances don’t help.” Clay shifted his grip to the back of Trent’s neck and pulled him closer. “Kiss me?”

Trent couldn’t help but smile before pressing his lips to Clay’s and they kissed for a long moment. When they finally pulled back, Trent’s smile stretched from ear-to-ear.

“How much longer do you think we can hold them off?” Clay whispered, not wanting to end this mostly pain free moment with Trent.

“I’m surprised Sonny hasn’t barged in yet.” Trent chuckled. “They’ve been pretty worried about you.”

“Go get them, then.”

Nodding Trent stood and strode to the door. After a brief conversation with his mom, he left the door slightly ajar and resumed his place by Clay’s side.

Jason had arrived over thirty minutes before Captain Rabon indicated. He’d been present when Clay began to regain feeling the night before, and was itching to learn how his rookie was doing. When the team trickled in to join him they each asked for an update, and instead of sharing the news, as little as it was, he decided to wait and allow Clay and Trent to do so.

It was ten o’clock before Elaine appeared in the waiting room. Although tired, she wore a wide smile and the concern which had grown in Jason over the last hour slowly seeped away.

“Good morning, boys.” Elaine smiled as the members of her son’s team jumped to their feet and stood in a semi-circle around her.

“How is Clay?”

Elaine turned to the Texan and placed a hand on his bicep. She knew this man was Clay’s closest friend on the team and knew he was worried. “Clay is awake and improving. They’re ready to see you. They’re in room two twenty-four.”

Sonny and Brock wasted no time in heading down the hallway, Ray close on their heels.

“Thank you for staying with them last night.” Jason understood keeping Elaine from Trent and Clay would be equivalent to forcing a Momma Bear to keep her distance from her cubs, but was still thankful they had someone with them during what surely had been a difficult night.

“No need for thanks. Those are my boys. Of course I was going to be here.” Elaine allowed a tired sigh. “It was a long night, but Clay continued to improve and is in much better spirits this morning.”

“That is great news.” Eric was relieved to hear Bravo’s youngest was finally on the mend.

“I’m going to grab breakfast for everyone and drop it off before heading home for a few hours of rest while you’re all here.” Elaine assumed the team would be staying a while.

“We’re not going anywhere anytime soon.” Jason confirmed. He’d be hard pressed to get Sonny to leave Clay alone at all today.

Elaine bid her goodbyes and headed out. Once out of sight, Jason looked to Eric. He’d noted the Lieutenant Commander’s demeanor when he arrived, and although he hid it well, the man had news.

“You heard something?”

Eric nodded. “Soon.”

Understanding he wanted to only say it once, Jason nodded and they headed for Clay’s room.

Clay looked up at the sound of Bravo approaching. Although he’d been awake a lot of the night with Trent, and remembered bits and pieces of people visiting since he arrived, he was relieved to have the rest of his family nearby.

“He lives!!!” Sonny exclaimed dramatically, arms raised for emphasis as we waltzed into the room with Brock and Ray right behind him.

Clay hook his head in amusement. “Hey, Sonny.”

Sonny stood at the foot of Clay’s bed and eyed him carefully. “You good?”

“Getting there.” Clay answered truthfully.

“Good seeing you, brother.” Ray smiled at Clay, thankful he was finally awake and coherent.

“Now that you’re finally awake, maybe this one will stop pouting.” Brock knocked into Sonny’s shoulder with a smirk.

Clay couldn’t help the small laugh. As his chest injuries made themselves known, he glared at the men. “Come on guys, busted ribs here. Stop making me laugh.”

“Quit tormenting him, Sonny.” Jason ordered as he entered the room and moved directly to the head of the bed opposite Trent. “Hey, Kid. How’re you feeling?”

Clay’s gaze roamed the room, noting all his Bravo brothers were present, and smiled. “I’m good. Was a rough night, but my legs have stopped tingling. They’re going to try to get me up and moving later today.”

Jason grinned at the news while the rest stood in silence as Clay’s words registered.

“Now just hold on there one damned minute.” Sonny noted both Trent’s and Clay’s grins. “Yer feelin yer legs again?”

“Yeah. Swelling finally went down and feeling started coming back last night.”

The room filled with congratulations and everyone hugged Clay again before settling into the empty seating around the room.

Eric drew in a deep breath and once everyone was settled he cleared his throat to get everyone’s attention. “Now that we’re all here, and awake, I think it’s time we debrief what happened.”

Clay looked to his lap, a feeling of dread suddenly filling him.

Trent gently gripped Clay’s chin and forced him to look up at him. “No one is mad at you. You did nothing wrong.”

“Trent’s right.” Eric offered Clay an encouraging smile. “I just want to make sure we have all the facts, and I have some news to share as well.”

Noting no one in the room appeared to be angry with him, Clay blew out a slow breath and nodded.

“Let’s start with what you remember.” Eric encouraged.

Trent didn’t miss the blush that colored Clay’s cheeks.

“I remember waking up Sunday morning.” Clay met Trent’s gaze, silently communicating that he remembered Trent making love to him and how happy he’d been to have that time with his boyfriend. “We were enjoying a lazy morning at home when you guys got spun up. Was pissed it couldn’t wait one more day for me to be cleared. Which I was, by the way.

“Was on my way to our cages when Fletcher stopped me in the hall. Told me Carlos was out with a family emergency and they needed a sniper.” Clay looked to Jason, pleading for him to understand. “I’m sorry. I know you don’t like us rolling without your permission, or with Charlie, but he told me you were being informed.”

“Not your fault you were lied to, Kid.” Jason assured the younger man. “Besides, you couldn’t ignore a direct order. I’m not mad at you.”

The honesty in Jason’s gaze, and the reminder he was ordered, not asked, helped settle some of the dread which had settled in his gut since the mission went sideways. “I wasn’t fully briefed until we were on the plane. I remember looking at the maps, listening to the details, and thinking Bravo could have pulled it off down a man and with no overwatch, especially since they had ISR. It shouldn’t have been an issue.

“Once we were on the ground, I set up on the top floor of a tower adjacent to the compound. The building wasn’t in the best of conditions, but worked for a perch. Charlie was getting ready to exfil when they were engaged. They took heavy fire, and I covered as best as I could, but then two RPG’s were fired at my location. The building crumpled beneath me, and the next thing I remember is Naima at my bedside, pain everywhere, and no feeling my legs.”

Trent tightened his grasp on Clay’s hand. The fact his boyfriend, the man he loved, was injured and he wasn’t there to help weighed heavy on him.

“Your account matches Beau’s pretty closely.” Eric smiled, at least there would be no debate on those events.

“What’s different?”

“He wouldn’t agree with your assessment that it could have been done without overwatch.” Jason shrugged. “There’s a reason we’re better than Charlie.”

The guys all laughed softly, attempting to remain considerate of Clay’s physical condition.

“What happened after the RPG’s?” Trent wanted to know why Charlie left Clay and haven’t been in to check on him since they got back.

“They were able to eliminate the hostile force but ended up with four wounded. Took them a while to dig Clay out and by time exfil arrived they were all in pretty bad condition. They were seen in country before being air lifted out.” Jason supplied.

Jason shared how he and Ray had gone in search of Beau when they first landed and was surprised to find Charlie One, Two, Four, and Six were all admitted to the hospital. Apparently Beau hadn’t shared all the details on the phone, just that Clay had been injured on his watch. He would have called sooner had be been able.

“It was Fletcher’s call to bring in Clay.” Eric picked up where Jason’s details ended, and his intel began. “After doing some digging, it appears as though there is bad blood between he and Ash, and he saw an opportunity to take it out on Clay. Harrington has already handled it and he won't be an issue again. Fletcher has been transferred out of DEVGRU.”

Lisa noted the hurt which flashed in Clay’s eyes at the news and her heart hurt for him. She wished there was a way to erase all the pain Ash caused in Clay’s life, and knew the rest of Bravo agreed with her.

“As Davis and I were looking into the details of the mission, NCIS launched an investigation as to what happened once they returned stateside. Agent Gibbs’ team was able to identify the nurse responsible for Clay’s intake and transfer to ICU.” Eric drew in and slowly released a long breath, and mentally prepared for the room to erupt in chaos. “Clay, after Charlie rescued you, you received proper medical care in country with the rest of the team before being transferred back here via a medical flight. Upon arrival, you were admitted, evaluated, and treated before the order to transfer you to ICU was put in.

“The nurse ordered to facilitate that transition then altered the medical records to remove you from the system. We have him on camera bringing you to ICU, leaving the floor and then the hospital, Naima later found you and your medical care was resumed. He has not returned to base since.

“After extensive investigation by NCIS, they identified him as Aiden Webb. Once apprehended, they discovered both he and Clay were up for Green Team at the same time. Clay was granted a slot, Webb was not. Apparently he’s carried a grudge ever since and when Clay came through, Webb saw a chance to get back at him.

“Unfortunately, during the investigation, Gibbs and his team have identified no less than eight service members Webb has attempted to eliminate over the last ten years. He will be court marshalled and dishonorably discharged at the least. More than likely he is looking at quite a few years of jail time.”

Silence descended in the room at the news. Although they were all glad to have learned what happened to Clay, they were all pissed off on his behalf. The fact Clay suffered because someone had a chip on their shoulder, and the news Clay wasn’t his first victim, had each man itching to plant their fist in Webb's face more than once.

“I am going to hang him from his balls, let Cerberus tear him limb from limb, then bury him in the deepest, darkest hole in the Mariana Trench!”

All eyes turned to Trent, everyone stunned at the declaration from their normally quiet medic.

Clay’s eyes widened in shock. “Holy Fuck!”

Trent was pulled from his thoughts at Clays exclamation. “Shit, did I just say that out loud?”

“Yeah. That's was hot as hell!” Clay grabbed a fist full of Trent’s hoodie, pulled him in, and kissed him hard. “I love you.”

Some of Trent's anxiety lifted at Clay’s touch. He pressed his forehead to Clay’s, closed his eyes, and breathed deeply. “I'm not sorry. Someone deliberately hurt you and that's not okay.”

“We’ll get justice, but we do it the right way.”

Trent nodded before reluctantly pulling back and dropping into his seat.

“Damn, wish I had someone that protective over me.” Sonny piped up, causing a ripple of laughter through the room.

“I think Sonny boy forgot about you, Davis.” Ray teased as he nudged Lisa with his elbow.

Brock shook his head. “I'd hate to be on the other end of her wrath for sure.”

“There is nowhere you can hide where Davis won't find you.” Clay smiled from his bed, noting the hint of red dusting Lisa’s cheek and the laughter in her eyes.

“I wish I had a Davis or a Trent.” Brock trailed off.

Clay laughed, and quickly regretted it at the stab of pain in his chest. “You have Cerberus, dumb ass.”

“And Hannah.” Lisa pointed out.

“You know what,” Jason looked around the room and smiled at his men. “I think we all have people in our lives that would move heaven and earth for us if they needed to.”

Ray nodded, than tilted his head in consideration. “It’s probably good they don’t, though.”

Five sets of questioning eyes turned to the 2IC.

“What? They’d be more likely to burn it down.”

Chapter Text

Clay sat in the Perry’s backyard and let his eyes roam around his team, his family. The barbecue that had been planned before Clay’s latest injury was finally in full swing, and everyone was in attendance.

Thinking back over the last several weeks, Clay’s heart both ached and burst with joy. The realization Ash’s shadow still loomed over him was a difficult pill to swallow. He’d work endlessly over the past few years to get out from under Ash’s influence, only to be constantly reminded it would never happened. All he wanted was to be judged on his own character and skills, build a name for himself free of the stigma that came with his parentage. Clearly there was still work to be done.

On the flip side, his brothers had proven they had his back no matter what. Clay had been called in to testify against Webb, as little light as it shed on the case, and Bravo had been there for him every step of the way. Now, Webb was facing an extensive prison sentence and a Bad Conduct Discharge from the Navy. At least he would never hurt Clay, or anyone else, ever again.

They’d also been there for the duration of his rehab. Thankfully, the most difficult thing to overcome was the bruising and breaks to his ribs. Even his arm healed without any complications. He’d seen Captain Rabon this afternoon and had received the all clear to return to full active duty. After more than two months away from Bravo, Clay was ready to get back in the field with them.

“You look pretty lost in thought. You okay?” Trent dropped to the empty lawn chair to Clay’s right. He’d noted the far-away expression and was concerned until Clay turned his bright smile his direction.

“Perfect.” Clay reached across the space and grasped Trent’s hand, resting them on the armrest between them.

“Hey now, you two. No making heart eyes at each other. There are kids present!” Sonny declared as he joined Clay and Trent around the fire in the backyard. He was thrilled to have his best friend back at one hundred percent.

Lisa passed behind Sonny with a beer in hand, and lightly smacked the back of his head. “Leave the boys alone.”

Brock passed a beer each to Trent and Clay before settling on Trent’s other side. Cerberus rounded the group and lay with his head on Clay’s feet. “Come on, Sonny. You and Davis are just as mushy. Not to mention this is the first time we’ve really seen these two together outside work.”

Trent smirked as he met Clay’s eyes, letting the teasing from their family settle around them like a warm blanket.

“Just as long as they don’t start making out in front of my kids.” Ray pointed at the couple with his beer.

Clay smirked, and Ray noted the mischief in the Rookie’s eyes before he leaned over and pressed his lips to Trent’s an a short, chaste kiss.

“Dad! Trent and Clay are making out!” Sonny yelled across the yard.

Jason shook his head as he and Blackburn joined in on the laughter, settling in with the rest of the guys around the fire. “What’s wrong, Sonny? A little kiss too much for your delicate sensibilities?”

“We could just tell them to get a room.” Eric added, joining in on the easy banter.

“We already did.” Trent laughed and winked at Clay.

“See … this right here! This is why you can’t date a team member.” Sonny fake pouted.

Lisa elbowed Sonny in the side none too gently. “Is this your way of breaking up with me?”

Sonny’s eyes went wide and he stuttered, much to Bravo’s amusement.

Naima, Alana, Hannah, and Elaine watched the guys and Davis as they teased and laughed with one another. The easy comradery and deep friendships were the reason Bravo worked as well as they did. They were the best of the best, and that started right here, in the backyard, where they could be themselves with one another without fear of discrimination or harassment.

Bravo had weathered some heavy storms over the last few years, but they’d come out the other side in one piece and stronger than ever. Their foundation remained strong, and the bonds of brotherhood deeper than ever.

They were confident team would be able to navigate whatever life threw at the Brothers, and sister, of Bravo.