Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

07:30am

'Right, don't forget Harry is coming at 8, I thought we could take him to the cafe for breakfast and then over to the dinosaur museum that's just opened up near town. ....' John babbled on, pausing as he opened the fridge.

'Ah, no milk.' he turned to look at Aaron, who was scrolling on his phone, absent mindedly moving his spoon around his bowl, smushing his Weetabix and milk into a sludge.

'You used the last of it, again?' John sighed as Aaron didn't register him.

'Did you hear a word I said?'

'Harry's coming at 8, we'll go to the Dinosaur museum in town and we have no milk. I'll get some in a bit.' he huffed, putting his phone away and getting up. He's been so busy at the scrapyard lately that it was hard for him to shut off while he took a few days off for the start of the summer holiday.

'Aaron.' John said softly. He walked over to his husband, wrapping his arms round his sides, giving his forehead a small kiss.

'You need to switch off, relax OK?' Aaron looked up at John, giving him a small smile and a nod.

'I'll get some milk, might have a walk too, clear me head.'

'Good idea, but make sure you're back by 8 yeah?' John smiled as they shared another kiss, before Aaron turned round and left. He was only out 30 seconds before he was boiling hot, despite it being 7:30 in the morning. He got his phone out and got the work emails back up. He was replying to a customer about a quote for scrap, but it would be a big job and his mind wasn't fully on it. Vinny was always on the ball so he texted him to have a look at it. He put his phone away again, going into David's shop. He paused for a brief moment as he stepped through the door. There he was. The blonde Adonis that was his ex, standing infront of him at the till, laughing with Eric about something. He was in a grey t-shirt, with black jeans, an outfit that hugged his muscles beautifully. His blonde hair flopped over to the side, newly trimmed it seemed. He snapped out of it, picking up the milk and tried to distract himself by looking over at the biscuits.

'Do you think she'll like them?' Robert asked, as Eric rang a large bunch of flowers through the till and popped them in his shopping bag. Aaron wondered who this woman could be. Not that it was any of his business, but they were very fancy flowers, bit too fancy for just a friend.

'She will love them, they're the best ones from our premium range! The buds will open more as you put them in water, but don't leave them in direct sunlight.'

'Ah, thanks Eric, that's a good tip.' tapping his card on the machine.

'Well, I hope it all goes well for you Robert. You deserve some happiness and....' Eric leant in, whispering something to Robert, which he laughed at.

'I'll be sure to. Take care mate.' Eric lifted a hand in goodbye as Robert turned round, giving Aaron a quick smile as he passed and left the shop. Aaron felt his heart flutter, he could smell Roberts posh aftershave, the one he used to wear for special occasions. He wondered, is he going on a date? Or is he in a relationship with someone new? He's seen him leave late on a Friday and coming back Sunday afternoons a fair few times over the past several months. Was it now serious, has he really moved on? Aaron's chest panged at the thought. He quickly picked up a random packet of biscuits and went to pay.

'Morning Aaron.' Eric greeting with a smile.

'Morning.' he gave a quick smile holding his card in his hand ready to pay and run out the shop.

'Robert's looking more chipper these days.' Eric looked at Aaron, seemingly wanting some kind of reaction from him.

'Yeah, none of my business though.' he put his card away after paying, grabbing his things.

'Sure you can still be happy for him, he's doing really well for himself.' Eric said, kindly enough. Aaron shrugged.

'Doesn't bother me who he's with anymore.' Eric frowned, confused as Aaron turned and left. He walked round the shop, catching up with Vic who was walking with Harry and carrying his bag.

'Uncle Aaron!' the little boy bounded up to him, flashing a big grin as he hugged his leg, Vic greeting him with a smile.

'Morning. Here, give us that.' he held the milk and biscuits in one hand as he took Harry's bag.

'Sorry, it's a bit heavy that one!' she cocked her head slightly.

'Didn't have you down as a Garibaldi kinda guy!' Aaron looked down, grimacing as he realised what he picked up. Of course. It had to be Robert's favourite biscuits.

'Its all they had.' he lied, hitching the bag higher on his shoulder as they made their way to the house.

'Look who I found.' Aaron called out dropping the bag down and setting the milk and biscuits on the table. Harry bounded over to John to give him a hug.

'Thanks again yous two. I owe you one.'

'Not at all, we love looking after him.' John smiled.

'Is Robert at work then?' Aaron blurted out before he could stop himself. He didn't know why he was asking as he'd just seen him. Vic's eyes widen slightly.

'Um, yeah, he had to do a last minute shift at the farm, or else he would have had Harry. Thanks again, sorry I've got to go. Right Mister.' she knelt down, giving her son a hug. 'You be good for Uncle John and Uncle Aaron, ey? I'll pick you up later yeah? Bye all, have fun!' she called out quickly as she left. Aaron turned back to John, who frowned as he picked up the biscuits from the counter.

'We don't need anymore biscuits.'

'I....I panicked.' more like panicked bought my exes favourite biscuits when he so much as smiled at me.

'Why would you panic at biscuits? You're so silly.' he tutted, with a hint of amusement.

'Right, who wants breakfast at the cafe?'

10:00am

If Aaron didn't blink in the new few seconds his eyes would probably completely dry out. He didn't know what was worse, that, or being bored to tears witnessing how long a five year old takes to drink a chocolate milkshake. It was way too big for him but John insisted he have it as a treat. Even he was regretting it.

'You don't have to finish it.' John sighed for the millionth time.

'I'm almost done!' Harry insisted, again for the millionth time. They then heard the sound of the straw slurping against the empty glass and could have almost cheered.

'Great, shall we get moving then.' Aaron could barely wait to get up.

'Harry did you have a bag?' Vic always packed him a bag full of snacks and a drink, plus some pocket money if he wanted anything.

'I left it at the flat.' he said quietly.

'No worries, Uncle Aaron can pop back and get it.' John smiled at Aaron who pulled a face. Once they left the cafe, Aaron jogged back to the flat, moving to the side as a white Fiat 500 came down the road. On his return, he saw the Fiat had parked directly outside Vic's. As he passed the window he saw Robert handing a women the flowers he bought earlier. Vic said he was at work, but he could already see she was lying. The women, who looked a lot older than Robert, had smiled, flinging her arms round his neck as she gave him a hug, and then a peck on the cheek. His stomach flipped.

He flinched as he heard his name being shouted across the way. 'Coming!'

Chapter Text

07:30am 

He couldn't believe it. He checked the calendar for the hundredth time that morning. Yes, today was the first day of the summer holidays, and yes, his son was coming home. Since Robert left prison he focused on getting his life back together and then, getting his son back. It took a long while. Since winning his appeal he made contact with Cynthia, Rebecca's aunt, who was looking after Seb in Bristol. He wanted to get Seb back, and while he and Cynthia didn't see eye to eye to begin with, she was amazing in helping him rebuild his relationship with his son. She could see how much this meant to him, and Seb, and in turn her relationship with Robert improved. She was still as blunt as ever, and always said her piece. He still remembers the right earful she gave him when he broke the terms of his licence after crashing Aaron's wedding. It changed his focus. When Aaron used to be his priority, this was now, and always will be, his son. He spent every weekend in the past few months visiting him, getting to know his little boy more and more with every visit. Even Vic and Harry joined him at the last meeting, the two boys getting on like a house on fire. It went to Seb barely leaving his aunt's side, to getting upset when Robert had to leave to go back home. He heart felt so full of love that his son was back in his life. For good.

'Right, just popping to the shops.'

'Robert, we've got a full fridge freezer we don't need anything else!' Vic called, getting Harry ready to go to his Uncles. 

'I want to get some flowers, oh and I saw these little racing cars I thought Seb might like.' Robert went 'oh' as Vic pursed her lips and rolling her eyes over to Harry.

'Mummy, can I have a car?' she sighed. 

'Darling....' she started.

'I'll get you one.' Robert said, Vic giving him a grateful smile and thanked him. 

'What do we say?'

'Thank you Uncle Poo Bert!' he giggled as Robert rolled his eyes and smiled. This kid was obsessed. He gathered his wallet, giving Harry a high five as he left. He made his way to the shop, picking up some flowers from the front before entering. 

'Morning Robert!' Eric called out, coming out from round the till.

'Morning Eric, how are you?'

'Good thank you, big day for you!' he whispered the last part. Robert had mentioned Seb was coming to live with him permanently.

'Yes, T minus....four and a half hours!' he glanced at his watch. He picked up a basket, and went over to the toy cars that were next to the magazines.

'Not long. Ah, we've have some new ones just come in.' Eric went round behind the till, and brought out a couple of new toys cars, each in their own box.

'I kept them aside for your Seb. One has 17 on which was his year of birth I think.' he passed them over to Robert, who looked up at Eric.

'You going soft there?' he laughed, looking over the cars he had in his hands. They were perfect. One was a blue one with 17 in white on the top and sides, the other was a red F1 car.

'Don't tell anyone!' he chuckled, before becoming serious, 'A gift from me.' 

'Eric, thank you so much, are you sure?' Eric lifted his hands up with a smile. Robert popped the cars in his shopping bag.

'He'll love them.' he walked over to where the other cars were, and chose a yellow one for Harry. He got a few magazines, a bottle of wine and some chocolates.

'Gotta treat Harry the same' he said, as Eric put the yellow car through the till.

'Ah, has he met Seb yet?' he asked, packing Roberts shopping into a bag.

'He met him for the first time last week. They get on so well, they clicked immediately.'

'Good! And his Aunt, is she alright?'

'Yeah, she's obviously going to miss him but she'll still see him loads. She's been amazing. She's staying for a couple weeks until Seb gets settled. You'll like her!' Robert said with a smile

'Ah you reckon?'

'She's loaded.' Robert whispered.

'Well I'll definitely have to meet her!' the two men laughed, as someone else came into the shop. 

'Do you think she'll like them?' Robert asked, as Eric held the bunch of flowers, checking the price before putting them through the till. 

'She will love them, they're the best ones from our premium range! The buds will open more as you put them in water, but don't leave them in direct sunlight.' 

'Ah, thanks Eric, that's a good tip.' tapping his card on the machine. 

'Well, I hope it all goes well for you Robert. You deserve some happiness and....' Eric leant in, whispering, 'if you can put in a good word with his Aunt' he said with a twinkle in his eye.

'I'll be sure to. Take care mate.' Eric lifted a hand in goodbye. Robert turned round, seeing Aaron standing awkwardly by the biscuits. He gave him a smile as he passed. He sighed as he got out of the shop. He couldn't help but still love that man, but that ship had sailed now. He was a mess when he gatecrashed the wedding, regretting the way he acted and it almost put him back inside. He walked past Vic and Harry as they were on their way to Aaron and John's. 

'Have fun!' he called out before going back in the house.

10:00am

Robert practically jumped out of his skin when the door went. He checked his watch. They weren't due for another two hours yet. He opened the door with excitement.

'Bertie!' his visitor cried, grabbing him in a massive hug. He cringed slightly at the nickname she insisted on giving him. No sooner had she let go, another smaller visitor had clung onto his legs. He bent down to hug him properly.

'Hiya mate!' He leant his head down, kissing his son on top of his head before stepping back to look at him.

'Have you grown again?' his son nodded, beaming up at him with a gappy grin.

'and another tooth for the tooth fairy?' 

'Yeah, I got five pounds!' he looked up at Cynthia with a fond smile, who grimaced and mouthed 'Sorry'. 

'Wow! Lucky you!' he helped them bring their stuff through the door, Seb had a bag on him, plus a suitcase, a bag full of bedding and a big box of toys, which also had some photos frames of his mum, which Robert promised to put up in his son's new bedroom. Cynthia dropped her suitcase and handbag down by the hall. 

'Would you like a drink?' he offered as they made their way through to the kitchen, Seb looking at his new surroundings in awe. 

'Yes please love. Sorry for being so early, we were both up and ready by six so I thought we'd hit the road.' Cynthia had a broad northern, slightly gravelly toned voice, that Robert found quite endearing.

'No worries, I've been looking forward to seeing you. Oh, I got you these.' Robert picked the flowers from the side and handed them to Cynthia.

'Aww, I love lillies!' she gave Robert a massive hug, and a peck on the cheek, before busying herself with putting the flowers in a vase.

'Seb, I got you a little something too!' he brought out the two cars from earlier.

'Wow! For me?' 

'Yes, just for you. My friend Eric, he runs the shop down the road, he got them specially for you.' he couldn't help but grin as his little boys face lit up, jumping up to hug his dad.

'Thank you Dad and Eric.' 

'We can pop by to see him later if you like?' Robert suggested.

'He's single.' he winked at Cynthia who scoffed and lightly tapped him on the arm. 

Chapter Text

Small footsteps slowly came down the stairs, and padded through to the kitchen. He had a brownie somewhere that his dad put away for later, wrapped in a blue and white polka dot napkin. They had a little buffet dinner the previous night to welcome Seb back home, and there were some brownies left over that his Auntie Vic had made for him. His Dad had put it away for later as he didn't like him having too much sugar. He looked in the fridge, spotting it immediately. He gently got it out, closing the fridge and going over to the sofa. He paused, seeing his dad fast asleep. He kept forgetting he was sleeping down here whilst his Auntie Cynthia stayed with them in his dad's room. He tiptoed as quietly as he could, over to the dining table, sitting down facing his dad so he could see if he woke up. It was 6:00am, and his dad would be waking up soon anyway, as he didn't always sleep very well. When he came to visit him in Bristol and slept in the spare room, Seb could often hear him pacing about early in the morning. He said it was something called insomnia. Seb thought he might have it too as he can never always sleep properly. Especially his first night in his new home, even though his new room was amazing. It had a racetrack carpet, dinosaurs that his dad had hand painted on his wardrobe and a photo of his mum that he'd hung on the wall. He knew it would take a while before he could really call it home. Plus, there would be new people to meet, making new friends. He'd done that before, but then as soon as he felt settled, he moved again. He was happy he was with his Dad, and family, but he still couldn't help but feel anxious about starting over again.

He carefully laid his treat out on the table, unwrapping the napkin before picking it up and taking a big bite. Hmm, it was so good. So gooey. Auntie Vic really did the best brownies. He had then finished it before he even realised. He slipped off the chair and walked towards the bin to dispose of the napkin.

'Taste nice?' his dad murmured, eyes closed, with a faint smile on his lips. How did he see him? He could swear his dad was magic. The boy turned round, wide eye and mouth still full of brownie. He chewed more and swallowed with a gulp. His dad's eyes were now fully open, turning his head to face his son.

'What tastes nice?' he feigned innocence.

'That brownie you just had.' his dad had now sat up properly. He threw the covers off him as he tried not to laugh at his son's chocolate covered face.

'Uh...n..no Dad. It...I just had some breakfast.' 

'Brownie for breakfast?'

'Uhh....well you have food for breakfast.'

'Yeahhh.' he replied slowly. 

'And if I did have a brownie, brownies are food. So you can have it for breakfast. But I..I didn't Dad.' he protested, shaking his head. 

'Seb, I can see the chocolate round your mouth.' he raised his brows, voice still light and amused. His son slowly smiled at his dad, and Roberts heart just melted.

'Come here!' his son jumped in his arms and they shared a bear hug.

'Seriously though. I don't want you having chocolate for breakfast, you need something healthier and more filling OK? I'll get some porridge on.'

'Harry says you do owl pancakes.' he looked up at his dad expectantly.

'Did he now? Well, we best get the stove on.' he said as he jumped up, leading his son to the kitchen.

He had a cracking headache. Spending the day with Harry was lovely but by god was he loud. Running round after him at the dinosaur museum also took it's toll. He was fit enough, but he thinks he did his knee in messing around in the ball pit. He spent the evening with some frozen peas on, with John's smug face saying 'I told you so.' He put a paracetamol in his mouth and glugged it down with some water, before putting the coffee machine on. It was 06:00am. He woke up too early and couldn't get back to sleep, so he thought he'd get a head start as there was tonnes to do at the scrapyard. He put some toast in the toaster, turning round as his husband shuffled out of the bedroom, yawning.

'Morning.'

'Morning, you're up early.' John came down the stairs, rubbing the sleep out of his eyes with his palms. He rested a hand on Aaron's back as he got another mug out, putting it next to the coffee machine to hint he wanted one. He gave him a peck on the cheek, laying his head in the crook of Aaron's neck. 

'Why don't we sack off work and go back to bed?' 

Aaron turned to look at him, feigning shock.

'Mr Employee of the month wants to skive does he?' he smiled, as he started to make John's coffee. 

'Mr Employee of the month can't resist his husband.' he murmured. Aaron smiled again, but couldn't stop the slight cringe he felt as John said it. 

'Well, not today I'm afraid, busy day at the scrapyard.' Aaron moved to take his toast and butter it. 

'Well, can I meet you for lunch then? I'm on a half day, so, pub at 13:00?' John's coffee had finished, he took it and followed Aaron to the kitchen table.

'No, John. I've got so much invoicing that needs to be done, plus we've got a big scrap run due in a couple hours.' Aaron said, huffing slightly.

'You need a lunch break. You've been running yourself ragged.'

'It's my business John, I don't get breaks.' he answered, mouthful of toast.

'Fine. I'll see what Vic's up to.' 

Aaron raised his brows as he put the last bit of toast in his mouth, downing his coffee before standing up to put his plate and mug away. He brushed past John as he got his boots, taking them to the sofa to put them on. Him and John seemed to be sniping at each other over the smallest things lately. Everything Aaron does, John doesn't like. And everything John does Aaron doesn't like.

'Aaron.' John called over, his husband turning round to face him.

'Have a good day.' he smiled weakly, Aaron giving him a tight smile as he left. 

Seb walked slowly out of the café, holding his ice cold milkshake in both hands as his dad followed him. He leant his head forward to take a sip.

'Hmmm!' he grinned back up at his dad who wriggled his brows and smiled.

'Nice?'

'Nicky does nice milkshake!' his son said as Robert laughed.

'God, don't let her hear you say that!' Nicola's jaw practically fell on the floor when she saw Seb. She commented on how much he looked like his Dad, how cute he was and how much he'd grown since she last saw him. She must be going soft as she gave Seb his drink for free.

'So, that's the cafe, as you know.' Robert started to introduce the village to Seb, detailing where everything is, who lives and works there.

'That's the vets, it's attached to that house, see? Rhona, who owns the vets lives there. She's really nice.' he turned round, pointing in the other direction.

'Thats the B&B, Nanny Diane used to own that. Before that, she half owned the pub.' Seb's eyes widened, impressed.

'When will we see Nanny Diane?' he'd only really met her over Skype, and she was so excited to meet Seb in person. His face fell slightly as his dad shook his head.

'Not yet mate, she lives in Portugal, and me and Auntie Vic can't quite afford to go there just now. But we will go one day, I promise!' Sebs smile returned at that. His Dad always kept his promises. Robert went through the hairdressers, Take a Vow, David's shop and the mechanics.

'There's also the farm where I work. We'll walk down there and I'll show you around.'

'Are there cows and pigs and chickens?' 

'Only cows and chickens I'm afraid, no pigs.' he said as they made their way down the country lane.

'Right, stay infront of me OK? The pavement disappears in a bit, so be careful.' 

They walked up a little way, passing the scrapyard. 

'What's that?' Seb asked curiously, as he walked towards the noise. 

'That's a scrapyard.' he took a sip of his oat milk latte as his son frowned slightly.

'What's a scrapyard?'

'Its where people take their old metal, and the scrapowner sells it on. So for example, if you had a car that broke and can't be fixed, you can sell it to the scrapyard, they'll take it to bits and see what they can sell on. They can sell the engine, door, wheels, whatever is in good nick. Then what they can't sell gets crushed in a massive crushing machine.' 

'Wow! Can we go and see?' Seb asked, looking excited.

'I'm not sure mate. The owner can be a bit grumpy.' he noticed the slight disappointment in his son's face.

'I'm sure if we asked nicely he won't mind.' Seb suggested innocently. Robert loved how sweet his little boy was, how he always saw the best in people.

'Well, we can always say hello can't we?' Robert smiled, as he guided his son through towards the scrapyard. 

Seb stared around in amazement in all the old cars, and broken bits of appliances strewn about the yard. He stopped in his tracks, as he saw a man rip a wing mirror off with his bare hands.

'Wow!' he started to race over, his dad running after him, pulling him back by the shoulder of his hoodie.

The man straighten up, taking his air pods out before storming round.

'Oi, you can't have your kid...running round here....' his words tailed off as he paused and stared at the sight infront of him. It was Robert, with a smaller Robert infront of him. He could hear his heart beat in his ears.

'Sorry Aaron. Seb wondered if he could have a look round....we can go, I see you're busy.' he went to take his son's hand, before Aaron knelt down infront of him.

'Sebbie?' he couldn't believe he was seeing him again. After all these years.

'Hi.' he replied shyly. 

'My god, haven't you grown?' I remember when you were a baby!' he looked up and smiled at Robert, who smiled back.

'I'm 7 now!'

'No! 7?' Aaron said in disbelief. The little boy nodded and smiled at him, his dimples deepening. He had a light covering of freckles over his face, blond hair, slightly wavy and curling up.

'I'm Aaron by the way, I own the scrapyard. I'm your....Dad's friend.' he thought for a bit on what to call himself. He could hardly say ex-husband slash brother-in-law.

'You're nice.' he turned to face his dad with a slight frown.

'You said he was grumpy.' Robert opened his mouth to speak, as Aaron laughed, standing up.

'Am I really?' Aaron said, arms crossed in mock defence.

'Well, do you know who gets really, really grumpy if he hasn't got a biscuit?' he asked Seb, who shook his head. He raised his brows and pointed at Robert. 

'Your Dad.' Robert pretended to look shocked as Seb looked at him in suprise.

'That's a lie!' Robert retorted, jokingly sticking his tongue out to Aaron, who stuck his tongue out too.

'Actually, I've got loads of biscuits in the portacabin. Would you like some?' 

Seb looked up at his Dad.

'Just the one, if Aaron's OK with it.' Seb turned round with a grin.

'Yes, please Aaron.' they walked towards to the portacabin. 

'Vinny, mate, you go on your break. Take as long as you want you earned it.'

'Ahh, cheers Aaron!' Vinnie grinned as he made his way out. He gave Robert and Seb a small wave as he passed.

Aaron took off his gloves, putting them down on the table as he reached over to the biscuit tin.

'There's bourbons, custard creams, Jammy Dodgers....eurgh Garibaldi's.' He and Seb pulled a face at Robert.

'Dad tried to give me one once but they were horrible!' Seb said as he chose the last jammy dodger. 

'Hey, that was mine.' he pouted as Seb paused, before taking a large bite and giggling.

'Careful!' Robert shook his head at his son before taking a Garibaldi out of the tin.

Aaron had just put a whole bourbon in his mouth as his phone rang. He rolled his eyes as he took his phone out. It was John. He put it on vibrate as he let it ring. John would know if he cut the call there and then and he'd go mad. If it was an actual emergency he'd send a text in capital letters. 

No sooner had it finished ringing it started again. Aaron waited for it to stop before switching his phone off.

'Something urgent?' Robert asked, getting a custard cream for Seb and himself another Garibaldi.

'No, not at all. Anyway, it's time I took a lunch break.' he said as he grinned at his visitors. Never did he thought he'd see Seb again, and never did he thought the three of them would be here together, knicking the biscuits out of Jimmy's biscuits tin. 

Chapter Text

Laughter filled the portacabin, Aaron wiping his eyes as his face turned bright red.

'You projectile vomited all over him!' Robert laughed, pointing at Aaron.

'It seeped through my jumper and stunk the house out! I'd just had a shower as well!' Seb wrinkled his nose in disgust, but also giggled along. 

There was a faint distant sound of someone walking up the scrapyard forecourt.

'What's projectile vomit?' Seb asked, looking unsure if he wanted to know the answer.

'It's when sick comes out like a....fire extinguisher!' Aaron looked round, finding an extinguisher nearby. He took the pin out and aimed it at the door.

'Careful Aaron!' Robert laughed., remembering what happened last time.

'Like this!' he squeezed the handle and foam shot straight out, just as someone stepped through the portacabin door.

'Shhiii....sorry!' he covered his mouth to stifle a laugh.

'For god's sake Aaron!' John cried angrily. He came back in, wiping the foam off his trousers.

'What the hell was that for you idiot? You can't be messing around with that....give that to me!' Aaron held his lips together, still trying not to laugh as John snatched the extinguisher off him, putting it down. 

'You ignored my texts and calls just to mess about all day? You act like an absolute child....'  He paused, as he looked over, catching Roberts eye. He huffed out a sigh. Aaron's smile fell into a worried look.

'Very cosy.'

'John, we were just catching up, Se....'Robert started.

'Shut up Robert!' John snapped, turning back to Aaron. 

'You said you were too busy for a lunch break Aaron. And here you are with your ex-husband. Talking about me were you?'

'John not now....' Aaron stood up, 

'Oh why? This a private conversation then? Am I ruining your fun?'

'We can talk later just not infront of Seb, come on.' Aaron pleaded, as John frowned. He looked over properly, noticing a small boy next to Robert, who was looking up at him warily.

John quirked his mouth into a small smile, walking over to where the young boy was and crouched down. Robert had a protective arm around his son.

'Hello Seb. I'm your Uncle John, your dad's half brother. It's nice to meet you.' he said softly, as he held his hand out, like he hadn't just had a go at Aaron and his Dad. Seb looked at his hand, then looked at his Dad. He suddenly felt uneasy, leaning back slightly into his Dad's arm. He chewed his finger, eyes darting between John, Aaron and his Dad.

'Right, we best get going now. Thanks for the biscuits.' Robert said finally, as he guided Seb out infront of him. He stopped as he passed John, who stood up, meeting his glare. He shook his head as he looked John up and down.

'Pathetic.' he barely hissed. He turned and left.

'Nice to see you again Seb.' Aaron called out after them with a small smile, closing the door. He looked over at John, who had stood up, leaning against the desk, arms folded.

'I didn't know he was there.' 

'What was all that for?' he asked as John frowned.

'You palmed me off this morning, saying you were too busy to get lunch, you then ignore my calls and texts and now I find you here, laughing and joking with your ex-husband and....ex step-son.' Aaron sighed as he rubbed his hand down his face.

'I was busy. I was stripping a car and Seb just ran up to me. I couldn't exactly tell him to leave could I? He was...he was my son, for a while.' Aaron explained, voice cracking slightly.

'But he's not anymore, Aaron. You can't let Robert manipulate you and use Seb against you.' John said, walking up to Aaron.

'You need to stay away from them.' 

'How can I? We're supposed to be going round Vics tonight for dinner aren't we? I can't exactly ignore them.'

'Yes you can. And you will.' John replied coldly.

The afternoon had a slight breeze, the change in the air suggested there may be a thunderstorm later. Robert and Seb were walking back from the farm, where he showed his son round where he worked, meeting all the animals. Moira took a photo of them both feeding the lambs, Seb on his dad's knee as he helped him with the bottle and a very hungry lamb. Seb seemed to really enjoy himself at the farm, but had gone quiet again as they walked back. 

'You OK mate?' Robert asked, as they passed the vets, walking down towards their house.

'Yeah.' he mumbled, not looking up from the ground, hands deep in the pockets of his hoodie.

'Tell me.' Robert pressed gently, nudging his son's arm. The little boy looked up at him as they both stopped walking. He looked deep in thought, his little brows furrowed slightly. 

'Umm....Uncle John doesn't seem very nice.' he said quietly, but loud enough for Robert to hear. He rubbed a hand on his son's shoulder, pulling him into a side hug.

'Hey, don't you worry about him OK? He's....a bit odd. Not everyone can see it. I'm not too keen on him either. ' 

'Even though he's your brother?' Seb asked.

'Yeah, even though he's my brother. But I don't know him that well. I think I told you, we didn't grow up together, John has a different mum and he lived with her. Me and Vic didn't know he existed until last year.' Seb looked thoughtful, before saying.

'Mummy said that sometimes it takes a while to like someone.' Robert nodded slowly.

'Sometimes. But then sometimes you know straight away whether you like someone or not. But, remember to always trust your gut.' he hugged him a bit tighter.

'Ey? If you feel it in your gut that something's not as it seems, listen to it.' his son seemed to take in what he was saying, as he nodded.

'I don't really like Uncle John. Sorry.' his son said shyly.

'Don't say sorry mate, that's OK. Neither do I. But, Auntie Vic and Uncle Aaron do like John. They get a.... a bit upset if I say anything against him so, we'll keep it between us for now yeah?' his son nodded with a small smile and hugged his Dad.

'Aarons my Uncle?' he asked suddenly, looking up again at his Dad.

'Yeah.' he could see his little boy thinking hard, trying to work something out.

'He's John's husband?' 

'Yes.'

'When we were at the scrapyard John said Aaron was talking to his ex-husband....is that you?' Robert took a slight intake of breath. Robert had mentioned that Aaron was his friend, but didn't mention anything about them being married. Cynthia knew everything, but they decided that they didn't want to confuse Seb, so didn't mentioned Roberts past with Aaron. They were honest about Robert being in prison, obviously not including the exact reason why.

'Um...yes.' 

'So you were married?' asked, matter of factly.

Robert nodded, as Seb pouted slightly.

'Why's he now married to John?' 

'Because me and Aaron....we fell out and decided not to be married anymore, but stayed friends. Then while I was inside, in prison, he met John and married him.' It was partly the truth, and he felt bad for lying, but he felt his son didn't need to know the ins and outs of it all. Not yet at least.

'Why does Aaron like him? He's mean.'

'I don't know sweetheart....he..' 

'He likes you Dad. You're not mean.' Seb cut in, innocently. 'Everyone likes you.'

'That's very kind of you but not everyone likes me. I annoy a lot of people.'

'Umm....sometimes, but it's not in a bad way.' Robert scoffed out a laugh.

'Do I annoy you?

'Umm, you always tell me when to go to bed and to wash behind my ears. But that's not a bad kind of annoying.' his son looked up at him, shivering slightly as a cross breeze came though.

Robert laughed, shaking his head.

'Right, let's get you in, see if Auntie Vic can make us a hot drink yeah?'

There was a lot of clattering around in the kitchen, Vic and Cynthia deciding to join forces and cook a roast dinner. Both women expertly dancing round each other in the small kitchen as they worked and chatted away.

'Sebs been a bit quiet, is he alright?' Vic asked, as she laid the beef ontop of the onions and chopped vegetables in the casserole dish. The boys and Robert were playing in the front room. 

'Our Seb met your John....' she raised her brows and pulled a disapproving look.

'Aww did he? John's lovely.' Vic, said as she poured gravy ontop of the meat, not seeing Cynthia's face turn to confusion.

'He might well be love, but Rob said he came in't scrapyard, shouting at him and Aaron infront of our Seb.' Cynthia explained, chopping the potatoes roughly. 

'They were at the scrapyard?' Vic turned to face her as she put the lid on the dish.

'Yeah, they were walking t'farm, then Seb saw the scrapyard. Apparently he ran up to Aaron who invited them in. Then John came in, complained about him not answering the phone or summit and accused him and Robert of getting cosy. Seb got a bit wary of him. Not surprised really, little lad doesn't always take to well to some people.'

'I'm sure he just caught him at a bad moment. Harry absolutely adores his Uncle John, Seb will come round.' Vic insisted.

'Hmm, it might take a while love. Remember he's been moved around a lot, had a lot of unsettling times. He's still adjusting to living here, Harry's had more time to get used to John hasn't he?'

Vic nodded, sympathetically. 'Well, John and Aaron are coming round for tea so, I'm sure they can smooth things over.' she gave a tight smile as Cynthia smiled slightly, not looking convinced.

'John's a good person.' Vic insisted. 

'Honestly, the whole village wouldn't know what to do without him! He's saved so many people, he's a medic at the surgery. He saved a young lad called Jacob who had a bad allergic reaction. If John hadn't been there with an EpiPen god knows what would have happened. Then he saved Chas, Aaron's mum, when she collapsed. He saved Aaron, who got punched and his lung collapsed....oh and he helped Liam, Dr Cavanagh, Chas' fiance, who got hit on the head and knocked out. He's literally a walking hero.' Vic turned to put the dish into the oven, not seeing Cynthia's eyes narrow, deep in thought.

'Hmm, well, lucky Aaron then, having a husband that's saved half his family.' she muttered, as she put butter on the potatoes.

'I know right, he's been so good to the Dingles lately.' Vic continued, filling up the kettle.

'Aarons cousin, Nate, was killed and John has been like a rock to them. Tracey, Nates wife, struggled to give a eulogy at the funeral, so John stood in, and gave an amazing speech. Tracey and the Dingle's weren't getting on, blaming each other for Nate's death. John gave them a bit of a kick up the backside and now they get on really well.' Vic wittered on, moving slightly as Cynthia put the tray of potatoes in the oven.

'Sounds like an angel.' she said flatly with a forced smile.

'He is! Been so nice having another brother.' she continued, making cups of tea.

'Ey, don't forget about the ones you have.' she pointed over to Robert, who was currently sitting on the sofa, with two giggling boys putting stickers on his face.

'I know.' Vic smiled and nodded. 

'Did you know John was a medic in the army?' She continued.

'You did mention love.' she replied with a tired smile. She made her excuses and walked out of the kitchen. She nudged Robert, laughing as he turned round, covered in Bluey stickers.

'Hi Cynthia. How's it going in there?' he asked, catching a sticker that fell off his eyelid. He grinned at the two boys, putting the sticker that fell off onto Harry's nose.

'Just your little sister going on about how great Brother John is.' Cynthia whispered, smiling fondly at the boys as they returned to playing. 

Robert rolled his eyes, as Cynthia sat next to him on the sofa.

'I told her about John shouting infront of Seb, she insisted he didn't mean it and he's the best thing since sliced bread. Went on and on about how great he is and everyone he's saved. You were right, he's flippin' everywhere in't he?' 

'You told me once he reminded you of a John that lived next door to you?'

'Hmm, I think....' they were interrupted as Vic came though with a tray of drinks, laying them on the coffee table.

'Aw thanks love.' she took her green tea, as Vic stood and stared at Robert, amused. She jumped as the door went. 

'Coming!' she called out, greeting John and Aaron as they came through, carrying a cake and a bottle of wine.

'Ooh cake as well!' Vic cried as she took the bottle of wine from Aaron. 

'Yes, carrot and walnut.' Vic turned and pulled a face.

'That's... different. Cynthia has made a lime cheesecake for tonight, might have the cake another time?' she suggested, taking the cake and putting it on the side.

'Cynthia?' he asked.

'Sebs Auntie.' 

'Ahh, yes. Our new nephew.' he smiled back at Aaron who smiled sadly in return. 

He made his way to the living room, giving Robert a funny look as he took the stickers off the side of his face. 

'Evening all!' he gave a wave to the boys, who were too engrossed in building a castle out of building blocks for their dinosaurs to notice.

'John?' Cynthia sat up, looking over at the man that had just entered the room. He returned her surprised stare. He opened his mouth to speak.

'John....John...We....oh it's on the tip of me tongue.'

'Sugden.' Robert prompted.

'No it...begins with a 'W', um...' 

'It is Sugden.' John finally spoke.

'Hello Cynthia, it's been a while.' he gave his usual half smile, holding his hand out. Cynthia gave him a confused look, before her face softened. She gave Robert a quick look before standing up, extending her arms out.

'Ahhh, of course! John Sugden! Come here love!' Cynthia smiled as she grabbed the man in a tight hug. He wasn't quite used to being greeted like this, but he gently tapped the lady's back in return. 

'Must have confused you with someone else!'

'You know him?' Vic asked, looking between the two. Cynthia pulled back, hands still on John's shoulders as she spoke.

'This man is a hero, aren't ya love?' she said as John smirked.

'I wouldn't go that far....'

'Well I would!' she turned to smile at Vic before continuing.

'This man was my neighbour back in Bristol. He left before our Seb came to live with me. What an absolutely amazing man you are my darling! You saved that man that had that funny turn. It's like you've got a built in alarm, or a batman signal, you just miraculously turned up to save him. Then lo and behold, he gave you your job back. And so he should!' Vic gave an aww, and Aaron looked on proudly, nodding along to what was being said.

Robert was the only one who knew Cynthia well enough to know that each word she said was dripping with sarcasm. He tried his best to hold back a smile.

'And then, I randomly fell and broke me ankle. And I thought to myself, well Cynthia, this is it love, you've had your chips. And then, an angel in corduroy came like a vision infront of me, patched me right up, didn't you love? Seems it didn't stop when you came here. Vic's told me all about your heroic exploits!'

'Its what I do. To some it's just a vocation, but to me, it's a way of life.' he said with fake modesty, lapping up the attention.

'Shame you left out the blue. You poor thing.' John's face fell at that.

'What happened?' Vic asked, eyes wide with concern.

'His lover croaked it in't middle of night. Must of been a shock.'

John gave Cynthia a shocked look, who smiled back at him sympathetically.

'John I didn't....why didn't you tell me?' Aaron asked, placing a gentle hand on his shoulder. 

'I....it...I don't want to talk about it.' 

'Of course love. Sorry to bring it all up again.' he shook his head gently, raising his hand and telling her it was OK.

'When was this?'

'Last year, about May time. I err....I started travelling around after that. I struggled to settle down. Until I....untill I found my family.' he pulled Vic into a hug, as Aaron rubbed his thumb on his lovers shoulder.  Cynthia turned round briefly, she and Robert sharing a 'for god's sake' look at each other.

'Sorry for bringing down the atmosphere. Why don't you come to table, we'll have a catch-up!' Cynthia guided John to the table, as Vic grabbed Aaron to come help her in the kitchen. Robert busied himself playing with the boys.

Cynthia waited until Vic and Aaron were out of ear-shot.

'I know your game.' she hissed.

'And it ain't flaming monopoly. More like Cluedo. Professor Plum in the kitchen with the lead piping. Only it was John, in the garden, with....'

'You know nothing, you daft cow.' he cut her off, staring her down. 

'I know you're not the real John Sugden.'

Chapter Text

Silence fell in the Sugden household, everyone busy tucking into their dinner. Cynthia was sat on one short end of the table, Harry and Seb at the other end, each on chairs that were squeezed in next to each other. Robert and John awkwardly sat together on one long end of the table, with Vic and Aaron sitting opposite.

'So....' Vic started, attempting to break the silence. 'Neighbours?' she asked, looking between John and Cynthia. 

'Yes, we were. Didn't have too much to do with each other did we?' Cynthia started, glancing at John next to her, who shook his head as he took a sip of beer.

'So how did you break your ankle?' Vic continued.

'Fell on me patio. One minute it was fine, then the next it were all smashed up and I fell arse over tit.' 

'Cynthia?!' Robert hissed, looking over next to him  at the young boys, who were preoccupied as Seb swapped his sprouts for Harry's broccoli.

'Sorry love.' she winced.

'And John swooped in to save the day?' 

'Hmm.' she replied, mouthful of food as John gave a quick smile. She swallowed before continuing. 

'He scarpered soon after that. Did a midnight flit after matey boy kicked it.' Vic looked at John who looked like he was about to make a bolt for it there and then.

'So um....what was his name? The boyfriend that died?' Vic asked gently, as John took a big breath.

'Damian.' he said quickly, before shoving a roast potato in his mouth. 

Vic nodded slowly.

'So how long were yous two....'

'Vic, I know you care, but please, stop asking me so many questions. I did say I don't want to talk about it.' John said, warningly.

'Yeah Vic, it's obviously still very raw. Whatever happened.' Aaron stated, John giving him a grateful smile.

'Yeah, poor thing needs more time to make something up, don't ya love.' Cynthia said, smiling before taking a sip of her drink, catching Roberts wide-eye expression, mouthing 'stop'. Vic and Aaron looked at her confused, with John glaring up at her.

'Right, lets start clearing up. Finished boys? Well done, you were hungry!' Robert chatted away as he started to collect plates.

'Mind giving me a hand?' he asked, looking over at Cynthia who had gotten up, taking hers, Vic and John's plates and following Robert to the kitchen, shutting the door behind them as soon as they got in.

'What was that all about?!' he hissed.

'What? He's lying through his teeth in there, it's obvious.' she hissed back.

'Obvious to you and me, not to Vic and Aaron. We've got to play the long game here. He always gets the upper hand, we've got to be smart about this.' 

'I know, I'm sorry. I get ahead of meself don't I?' She smiled sadly as Robert began to fill the dishwasher.

Vic looked over at Robert and Cynthia in the kitchen. 

'She um..she's a funny one isn't she?' Vic said, looking round the table as she was met with awkward silence.

John couldn't sleep that night. The family dinner was awkward to say the least, Aaron and John left soon after the plates were cleared. He couldn't stay here for long. Robert and Cynthia were onto him, he knew it. He would leave there and then, but Moira was desperate for his help at the farm, texting the Butlers Farm group chat early in the morning to ask for help. It would also be too obvious if he just upped and left now. Plus he found being at the farm quite peaceful. He just needed time to think. Maybe he and Aaron could just leave the village together, start a new life, away from everyone. 

He sat in his van, his work bag in his hands. He reached in and pulled something out, staring at it intently.

'Morning!' he looked up, seeing Moira's smiling face through the half opened van door. 

'Morning.' he replied, dropping what was in his hand back in his bag and flinging it on the bed. As he shut the door, he didn't hear the bag fall on the floor, the contents spilling out.

'Thank you so much again for coming! I honestly don't know what I'd do without you Robert and Mack coming to my rescue.' 

'Robert? Thought he was on annual leave this week.'

'He was, but he said he'd cancel today to help out. Plus he's bringing Seb with him to keep Isaac company. Such an adorable little boy isn't he?'

'Yeah, he is.'

'Right, Robert and Seb are on their way, we'll get cracking as soon as they're here. Coffee?'

'Ooh yes please.' 

Ten minutes later, Robert and Seb walked through the gates, laughing away.

'John looks like the bogeyman in my book!' Seb laughed, as Roberts mouth opened in shock

'Seb!' he cried, before falling into a fit of laughter. 

'Promise me you won't call him that to his face?' he looked down as his son giggled mischievously.

'Um...no.' Seb laughed back as Robert tickled him. 

They soon saw John, Mack, Moira and Isaac outside chatting. Moira waved, leaning down to speak to Isaac, pointing over at Seb. The young boy ran over.

'Hi Robert! Hi Seb!' he greeted with a friendly smile.

'Hiya mate.' Robert said, as Seb gave a shy 'hello' back.

'Mum says you're coming to play. Do you like football?'

'Yeah.'

'We've got to stay in the farm, but we can play over there infront of the barn.' 

Seb turned to look at his Dad, who ushered him over to Isaac, telling him to have fun and shout if he needs him. He smiled as Isaac took Seb to get a ball, chattering away to him.

'Thanks for having him Moira.' he said as he walked over.

'No, thank you Robert. Sorry to cut your holiday short.' 

'No not at all. It's good for our Seb to make friends anyway.' Moira smiled before clasping her hands together.

'Right, well, I need you lads in the barn, we need to get it ready to move the heffers in, theres no space left in the barn they're in now.

'Yes Boss.' John said with a smirk, Mack and Robert caught each others gaze and rolled their eyes. They all made their way to the barn, Robert turning to check on Seb, who gave him a happy smile. He was so glad his son was settling in well.

'And then..then, she had the nerve to tell me to calm down, when she was the one who had a go at me in the first place!' Tracey went on, as she packed the bag furiously. Aaron would have to make sure he checked the eggs to make sure they were still in tact.

'I mean can you believe it?' she carried on as she totalled the items up.

'£25.90 please.' she gave a small smile as Aaron tapped his card and took the bag, raising his brows and muttering a 'thanks' as he turned to leave.

'Something I said?' she asked to Jacob next to her. He scoffed out a laugh.

'What didn't you say, you keep chewing the customers ears off.' she slapped his arm playfully as he grinned back.

Aaron had just passed the biscuits when the door opened and Cynthia walked in. She smiled as soon as she saw him.

'Morning love!' she said cheerily, her face falling as Aaron gave her a look, ignoring her.

'Ey, Aaron, you OK?' she gently touched his arm, he turned round with one brow raised.

'I would be, if people stopped giving my husband such a hard time.'

'Oh I didn't mean anything by it. Just my humour.'

'You need to learn to read the room. You kept on at him, like his boyfriend dying is his fault....' he hissed, keeping his voice low so noone could hear.

'Well it is, I saw him. Clear as day. He's not who you think he is..'

'Did Robert put you up to this? Coz he's been saying the same. That we can't trust John, John's a wrong 'un. He just jealous because he can't have me.'

'Cynthia let out a laugh.

'Aww Aaron, you seriously think Robert is jealous of you shacking up with a murderer? He's worried about you, and Vic. And rightly so. You're not safe with John! Look, you might not see it now, but you will one day. Let's just hope it's not too late ey?' she gave a sad smile, tapping his shoulder as she passed. Aaron shook his head with a frown, leaving the shop.

Aaron walked back to the flat. First Mack didn't think much of John, then Robert, now Cynthia. Well, Mack is his best mate and Robert is his jealous ex-husband, so they probably don't think he's right for him. And Cynthia, well, she's been hanging round Robert for too long. They don't know John like he does. Aaron would know if John wasn't on the level ....wouldn't he?

Next to the barn, Isaac and Seb were having a football match. Isaac kicked the ball up on his knees, before passing to Seb, who expertly did about six keepy uppies before booting the ball over, slamming it against the back door to John's van. Both boys clamped their hands over their mouths as the door slowly opened.

'Ohh no!' Seb said, voice muffled behind his hands. He walked over to the door. There was no sign of actual damage, but the door now wouldn't shut.

'It's OK.' Isaac said, trying to reassure his new friend.

'Is this John's van?' Seb asked as he peered in.

'Yeah. Don't go in. I did once to get me ball back and he went mad.'

'He's weird.' Seb said, as he leant in further he saw a bag on its side, with the contents spilt out on the floor. Curiosity got the best of him.

'Keep watch OK?' he said as he stepped in, looking around the van. 

'Careful Seb!' Isaac whispered, as the younger boy crouched down to look at the stuff on the floor.

T-shirts, trousers, some socks. He stilled when he came across a card. He looked at it, frowning as he inspected it. He froze when he heard a voice behind him.

'What are you doing?'

Chapter Text

He could feel his heart thumping in his chest, hearing it in his ears. He stood up slowly, slipping the card in the front pocket of his cargo trousers before slowly turning round. He breathed a sigh of relief as it wasn't John. It was the other man, whose name he couldn't remember.

The man raised his eyebrows, expecting a reply. He had a kind face, looking more concerned then angry.

'Um....the....ball went in. I was just getting it back.' the man looked at the ball in Isaac's hand.

'OK, well, you've got it back now, so you can come out of there wee man.' he said firmly, but gently, reaching out his hands to help pick Seb up out of the van. 

'Never go in John's van ever again you understand me?' He said, as he planted Seb back on the ground, the little boy nodding.

'Sorry.'

'It's OK. It's just we know how precious John gets about his van, don't we Isaac?' he said, looking over at the other small boy who nodded as he remembered the time he accidentally kicked his ball into John's van and got an earful.

'I'd rather it's me who caught you instead of him. I don't want him to upset you.'

'OK. Thank you.'

'I'm Mackenzie by the way, Mack for short. I'm Moira's brother, and Isaac and Kyle's Uncle.' the little boy smiled. He remembered his dad talking about a Mack, who seemed nice. 

'I'm Sebastian, Seb for short. Roberts my dad.' Mack smiled at him kindly.

'It's nice to meet you. Right, well, let shut this then.' he pushed the van doors until they clicked, checking it to doubly make sure it was locked.

'Now you two, go and play. Fall over, scrape your knees, play with poo, do whatever it is boys do nowadays!' he said with a laugh as he shooed the boys away. He strode over to where Robert was sweeping, Moria and John had gone to get some more hay.

'Robert, um..I don't mean to tattle but....'

Robert straightened up, amused for a split second before he saw that Mack was being serious. 

'I just saw Seb in John's van.'

'What? What's he doing in there?' he looked over to where Seb and Isaac where passing the ball to each other.

'He said he was getting their ball back, but he looked a little bit shifty. Just thought I'd let you know. Make sure he's OK?'

Robert nodded.

'OK, I'll speak to him when we get home. Thank you.'

'No worries. It's just, John gets really tetchy when people go near his van so, please don't say anything to him.'

'Oh god, course not!' Robert said with a frown.

Robert wasn't too sure what to do. Seb was a good kid, but there was clearly something that was interesting in there, and Robert was just as curious to find out what it was. He wouldn't go out all guns blazing on him, like his Dad would have, there was no need. It had taken a while to build up Sebs trust after reuniting with him and he wasn't going to ruin it. He wasn't his dad.

They returned back home later that evening, Robert deciding to chuck chicken nuggets and chips in the air fryer for dinner. He doesn't usually like doing that, preferring to cook homemade meals for his son but they were both absolutely done in. Robert aching from the heavy lifting and Seb tired from playing with Isaac. 

'Seb, mate, can I have a quick word?' he asked as he son had plopped himself on the sofa.

'Yeah.' he turned round to his Dad sleepily, eyes half open. Robert came and sat down next to him.

'Can I ask you something?'

Seb nodded.

'Did you go somewhere you shouldn't have today?' Seb frowned for a moment, looking up at his dad's face, which didn't seem angry. Just looking back at him with a calm expression, waiting.

'Um..I don't know what you mean.' he answered quietly. Robert thought he'd better just come out with it.

'Did you go into John's van?' his son looked to the floor, fiddling with his hands.

'You're not in trouble, I just want to know OK?' 

'Yeah.' he looked back up at his Dad.

'OK. Can I ask why?'

'I accidentally kicked my ball into the back door, and it opened. I thought I broke it but I didn't, it just opened by itself. Um, then I had a look round....'

'OK. Why did you have a look round?'

Seb shrugged.

'I dunno, just being nosy I guess. Gut feeling or something.' he met his dad's eyes. Robert nodded. slowly as he remembered their conversation the other day when they spoke about listening to their gut instincts. 

'OK. That's fine. Didn't find anything that worried you, did you?' he expected Seb to say no, but the little boy nodded at his dad.

'Um, I found a card with his face on.' he opened his pocket and pulled out a driver's license. Robert took it, looking at it with a sigh.

'Seb...you can't be taking things like this...' he trailed off as he inspected the card, his stomach flipping.

'Sorry Dad, I'll give it back to him....Dad?' he looked up as his little boy leant in, trying to get his attention.

'No, I'm sorry mate, it's OK. Um...I'll give it back to John. Don't you worry.'

'Can I still have pudding for after tea?' Robert gave an amused looked before laughing.

'Of course, why wouldn't you?'

'Because I did something naughty. I'm sorry.'

'Seb.' he pulled his son in for a hug.

'Taking things that is not yours is wrong, but, on this occasion you did the right thing.'

'How?'

'Um...just don't worry about it, OK? Your old man will sort it all out. You've got nothing to worry about.' he pulled back, smiling at his son who looked confused, but didn't say anything more.

He hoped he finally had proof that will get John out of their lives. For good. He just didn't know how to handle this new piece of information. The door went, Cynthia singing as she came through to the living room.

'Hows my little farmers ey?' she reached her arms out as Seb ran and gave her a big hug.

'Oh, someone needs a good wash tonight!' she said, holding her nose as Seb laughed.

'Bath straight after dinner right!' Robert said as Seb rolled his eyes.

'Yes Dad.' he groaned.

'It's still half an hour til tea, time to give your tip a good tidy.' Robert raised his brows as Seb groaned again, stomping upstairs to his room.

'Oh, Robert, you're very assertive today.' she joked, pretending to fan herself, as Robert waited until Seb had gone out of view.

'His rooms fine to be honest, he ain't that messy.' 

'Ignore that, I need to show you something.' he held out the ID card.

'Flipping 'eck! Think we got him?'

'We need to be smart about this.'

'Confront him! Make a citizens arrest!' Cynthia suggested excitedly.

'No! How many crime shows have you watched? No, John mustn't see this yet.... We need to do this the right way.' Robert was racking his brain, trying to think what to do.

'I think I know who needs to see this first.' 

Aaron had come back to the flat after meeting his mum at the pub, making sure he was back before five so that he could see John when he came back home. It was knocking on 6, he checked the time impatiently as he waited. John was at the farm for the day, but he hadn't heard anything from him since lunchtime, which was odd as John constantly texted him throughout the day and Aaron was the one who was terrible at replying. He'd been acting strange lately, especially since last night after Cynthia cornered him at dinner, which is understandable as she is a bit of a Rottweiler, he thought.

The buzzer went. Aaron strolled over, he wondered if John had forgotten his keys. He buzzed them through from the intercom before unlocking the front door. 

'You alright? I was gonna send out a search party.' he turned round, jumping slightly as Cynthia stood behind him. 

'Sorry love. Only me.' she smiled nervously.

'Wasn't expecting you.' 

'I could tell. Waiting for John?'

'Yeah, and he'll be back soon so....' Aaron nudged his head towards the door.

'I won't be long.' Aaron frowned, hands on hips.

'So, about last night.'

Aaron nodded slowly.

'I'm so sorry if I was a bit much. Once I get something in me head it's hard to get it out. I must have gotten it wrong somehow.' she looked at him, as his face softened a little.

'We all make mistakes.'

'I wanted to talk to John meself. It's just....it doesn't make sense does it?' Aaron tilted his head slightly, frown returned to his face.

'Well, Robert had already told me about Aidan. Aidan Moore?'

'Yeah, he's in a coma.' Aaron added, shrugging as he wasn't sure where this conversation was going.

'Well, it just seems weird to me. First boyfriend gets in an accident, John tries to save him, boyfriend ends up in a coma and never wakes up. Second boyfriend gets in an accident, John tries to save him, he dies. Bit of a pattern here don't you think? Well, I dread to think what would happen to you love. And by the way it's going, that's one every two years, so by my reckoning you're halfway through your time!' 

'I thought you came here to apologise? You know nothing about him! Roberts been filling your head with all sorts! And he didn't kill Damian, or hurt Aidan, he tried to save them.'

'No that's what he told you love. I saw what happened to Damian. He shoved him, he hit his head and never got back up. Please Aaron, you don't know him.' she looked down at something in her hand.

'Here.' she passed a card over to him.

'Please, look at who you're married to love. He's not who he says he is.' Aaron takes the card but doesn't look at it.

'You can go now.'

'Just think it through, Aaron. That's all I ask.' she smiled sadly, before turning round and leaving, closing the door behind her.

He looked at the card in his hand, stomach dropping as he read what was on it.

It's an ID card. It's scratched, and a bit battered but he can see clearly that the photo is John. Only, he's not John Sugden.

Chapter Text

Aaron breathes heavily, hand shaking as he looks at the ID card.

John Westbourne

November 1985

That's not right. They celebrated his 36th birthday last December. They had a party for him in the pub. He remembered him saying he was born in 1988, he's two years younger than Robert, six years older than Vic.

Westbourne was not a surname he recognised. His, John Sugden's, mum was called Barbara and her maiden name was Nicholson. There was no other reason why he would have another surname other than Sugden.

He's married a complete stranger. Someone he knows but doesn't know at the same time. He doesn't know what to do. His knee bouncing up and down in a constant rhythm as he goes between clasping his hands together, elbows on his thighs, and reaching over to look at the ID card, as if it was about to change all by itself. He wracked his brain, thinking back to everything people had been saying to him over the past year; 

'He's weird! I don't trust him.'

'You don't even know him.'

'He's everywhere.'

He saved me, saved me mum, Liam, Jacob....was there for Tracey. He gave a eulogy at Nates funeral....he's a good person. 

Or is he?

He didn't realise how hard he was holding the card until he feels it cutting into his hand. He looked down at the red indent in his palm.

It couldn't be a coincidence? The more he thought about it, the more they were right. John was everywhere when people were in trouble. Why? Does he put people in danger just to save them and be seen as a hero. He's sure there must be a term for that.

He exhaled slowly. Robert was right. He felt himself instinctively reaching for the phone in his pocket, searching for his number, thumb hovering over the call icon.

'I tried warning you, Aaron.' He could hear Roberts voice in his head saying with an exasperated sigh.

He locked his phone and put it back in his pocket. He didn't want to bother him. He had his chance to listen and he didn't. He felt such an idiot. He should have known Robert enough by now that his intuition about people where almost always correct.

He heard John's van on the drive outside, and exhaled deeply. He stood up, unsure what to do. Does he confront him? Ask him who he is?  

'Hey.' John had come through, dropping his phone and wallet onto the coffee table infront of him.

'Hey, good day?'

'Yeah, I'm just going to the van, think I've lost something. Won't be long.'

'What you lost?'

'Oh, nothing, I'm sure I'll find it. You mind preheating the oven?'

'Sorry, we um....we don't have anything in.'

'That's fine, I'll get us a takeaway pizza from the shops.'

'You sure? I can get it.'

'Yes....' John said a bit more sternly then he should have. He sighed. 

'Yes, it's fine.' he said softer, smiling as he turned to leave the flat.

Aaron's gut told him to search the van. He'd barely have any time, but surely he could just have a look to see what else John is hiding. He ran down the stairs and out the door, just as John had turned out of the gate. He went to the van, trying the driver side door. He went to the back, noticing a small mark near the lock. He tried the handle, which was slightly loose, like something had hit it and it was jutting out ever so slightly. He curled his fingers in and gave a couple sharp tugs before it came free. He stepped into the van.

A bag full of clothes was on the bed. He didn't think too much of it as John would always take a change of clothes to the farm, being extremely particular about bringing dirt into the house.

Even though he had been in the van loads of times, he was never allowed to open the cupboards. John was really precious about his van for some reason. He looked over, opening one of the cupboards. There was medical stuff, tarpaulin, bungee cords. Weird, why does he need all that? Maybe to cover the van in bad weather? He pulled open a draw, swiping away at random papers and receipts until he saw a phone that had a thick case on. As Aaron turned it over to look at it, his heart sank, and he felt sick. His hand trembled as he pulled the phone out of the drawer completely.

Printed on the phone case was a picture collage of Tracey and Frankie....and Nate. He clicked the side button. Of course, it didn't switch on.

He didn't?! He couldn't?!

He looked back at the cupboard, at the cord and tarpaulin. Nate has been wrapped up in something similar and thrown in the lake. Oh god....why would John do such a thing?!

John acted the perfect friend, he was there for Tracey all the way through Nate leaving, and subsequently finding out he'd been killed. He read out her eulogy at the funeral. Told the family to stop quarrelling and stick together. Pretended to be a rock to everyone. A pillar of the community. And Aaron had clapped him. He cringed internally. He bloody well clapped John at his own cousins funeral, and all the while he was the murderer. This, along with John's ID, proves that Robert and Cynthia were right. He desperately needed Roberts help. He got out his phone to call him. 

'Hi, this is Robert Sugden's phone. I can't take your call right now, please leave a message and I'll get back to you.'

'Robert? Um, I need your help. Please. It's John....'

His head whipped round as he heard footsteps on the gravel behind him. He put his phone back in his pocket and ran to get out, but just as he stepped out, he came face to face with John.

'What are you doing?' John asked, as tears pricked Aaron's eyes, lifting Nates phone up as he walked closer to him.

'You killed him? You killed Nate?!' he screamed.

'What? Of course I didn't!'

'You have his phone! And I know you're not the real John Sugden. I...I found your ID card.' Aaron reached into his pocket, pulling out the card and chucking it at John's face. He dropped the takeaway as he clumsily caught the card.

'Where did you get this?'

'Does it matter? You lied to me. You're not the real John Sugden and you killed Nate!' he threw Nate's phone at John as he made a lunge for him. 

'Aaron, Aaron you've got this all wrong!' he shouted as the two man grappled each other. He shoved Aaron against the van, before putting both hands on his face.

'Look at me. Look at me! We can talk about this just calm down.'

'No! I'm calling the police.' he push John's hands off, grabbing his phone out of his pocket, before John smacked it out of his hand. 

'You're not calling anyone.' he growled in Aaron's face, foreheads almost touching. Aaron tried to push him to the side to run, but John was too quick, spinning his round, his fist catching his eye, knocking him out.

The last thing Aaron remembers was falling to the floor before everything went black. The next thing he knew he was waking up, the back of his mouth gag was tied to the railings of their staircase. His head was killing him, plus his ribs felt like he'd been hit by a truck. He could taste blood, and fabric in his mouth. His hands and ankles were tied infront of him. He looked up, his right eye not cooperating as it stayed shut, tight and swollen. John sat cross-legged infront of the back of the sofa, staring straight at him.

'Wondered when you'd wake up.' he said with a smile, like Aaron had just woken up from a pleasant dream, instead of a nightmare.

He stood up and strolled over.

'Though I'd let you come round, you looked so peaceful.'

'Hmmph!' Aaron's cries were muffled by the gag in his mouth.

'It's OK Aaron, you don't have to talk. I will. I'll tell you everything but you have to listen OK?' he took a seat, again cross-legged, infront of Aaron.

'You're so handsome.' he held his palm up to the side of Aaron's face, rubbing his thumb on his cheek slightly before taking his hand away.

'Right. Where to begin ey?' he smirked, as if this was some kind of game.

'I didn't mean to do it, Aaron. Nate had been beaten up, he was in pain and he needed my help. I gave him something for it, but he had a bad reaction and died. I panicked. I didn't know what to do. So I wrapped him up and put him in the lake. It was an accident. I swear. I only tried to help him.' he looked into Aaron's eyes, before lifting his hand up.

'Promise not to shout?' Aaron nodded as John loosened the gag from his mouth, which was still tied round the lower part of his face.

'You said the same about Damian and Aidan. Didn't you?' Aaron hissed, voice hoarse as he spoke.

'Damian was self defence, Aidan was an accident.' 

'Who even are you?'

John breathed in deeply, giving a defeated sigh, before smirking.

'You got me now, ey? No wriggling out of this one.'

'Its not funny, people died John.'

He nodded sadly in reply.

'You killed my cousin!' 

'I didn't mean to! I save people, it's what I do. And what I can't I....I feel terrible. I feel like I've failed.'

'You put people in danger just to save them don't you?'

'No....' John said unconvincingly. Aaron good eye widened.

'You hurt my mum? You, you messed with her medication didn't you?'

'No, I....I just wanted to help her....'

'Then after that she was your number one fan!'

'Shut up.'

'And Jacob? Did you switch the coffee? Hide his EpiPen?'

'Shut up.'

'You got your job back after that? Do you get off on it? Coz I remember we did it twice that night!'

'I SAID SHUT UP AARON!' John screamed.

'Tell me everything! I want to know everything you've done. John Westbourne.' Aaron hissed, staring into Johns soul with a scowl.

Chapter Text

John had put the gag back on Aaron's mouth. Both breathing heavy with panic, for different reasons.

'I was in the army, as a medic, that part is true. Trust me. I was in love with Aidan, but we were not engaged. His best mate, since pre-school, was John Sugden. They did everything together. Inseparable. He was also in the army with us, in the same squadron, everything. He hated me....but he loved Aidan.'

Aaron nodded slightly as he spoke, arching his back as much as he could to stretch and try to get comfortable.

'Well, John, Sugden, was secretly engaged to Aidan. He wasn't good enough for him, Aaron. Me and Aidan had something special, something they didn't have, you know? John always criticized me. Saying I'm always in the way, I'm always interfering, I'm a medic for god's sake! I'm suppose to 'interfere'!' So I thought, I'll show him....' John looked sad for a moment.

'I....I just wanted to scare him, Aaron. I never meant for him to get hurt.... The truck just flipped, and....I didn't realise that Aidan was in there as well. I ran straight over as soon as I saw it happen. I saved Aidan first, I tried to go back and save John but....I couldn't. The truck leaked fuel and exploded. It was too late....' he breathed out a sigh, tenting his hands over his nose and mouth. Aaron's eye widened, wet with tears.

'Our squadron had a funeral for him, and a vigil for Aidan. John's mum, Barbara, was his only next of kin but she had dementia and couldn't come. She lived in Manchester, and we were based in Southampton. They tried telling her about what happened but she didn't understand. Aidan got moved to Hotten General, so his mum could look after him closer to home.' John looked to the side, thinking before turning to face Aaron, shaking his head.

'First mistake I made was going to visit Aidan. Obviously I told his mum my name was John and she assumed John Sugden. Don't think she knew what happened, or if she did she got us mixed up. For whatever reason I didn't correct her. Then, I went to visit John's mum. Another mistake. I hate myself for it. She thought I was her son. I tried to correct her but she kept forgetting. Even the care home staff thought I was her son.' he paused. 

'Calmed down now? Because if you shout again I'll....' Aaron's nodding cut him off, and he loosened the gag again. 

'Why didn't you just stop visiting?' Aaron asked, voice barely a whisper.

'I don't know. Guilt? Soon after I left the army and moved to Bristol.'

'Next to Cynthia.' Aaron added, nodding.

'Yeah, interfering old witch. She was like a female version of Robert, suspicious, always on my case. I lodged in the house next to hers, it was owned by Damian. It was just me and him. Noone else knew me. I could just be myself. John Westbourne. It was great....until....'

'Until what?'

'He found out I was still visiting Aidan. Me and Damian had gotten close...well, we were a couple. I told him about what happened, he wasn't as understanding as you let's put it that way. He then worked out I was pretending to be John Sugden to Aidan's mum. Which, I'll admit, is wrong. But he was going to tell her. I had to stop him....I....I didn't mean to hurt him, Aaron....'

'First boyfriend gets into an accident, John tries to save him, ends up in a coma....second boyfriend gets into an accident, John tries to save him, he dies....bit of a pattern here don't you think?'

Aaron's breathing became heavier. Cynthia was right....he's next.

John sat back, adjusting his legs so his feet were flat on the floor and he was hugging his knees.

'So I left...this was last year. While I was travelling, I got the call to say that Barbara had died. I went to her funeral. That's where I met Vic. Apparently Eric knew Barbara from years ago. Vic overheard someone calling me John or something. Got the wrong end of stick.'

'But you didn't correct her?' Aaron asked, confused.

'I tried to push her away. Tried to tell her to leave me alone. But she was so adamant she wanted to get to know me....she wanted me to be part of her life Aaron, her family. That...that's a lovely feeling isn't it?'

'Yeah. It is. If it's genuine....' Aaron started but John cut him off.

'So I let her in. I would have loved a sister growing up. It was just me and my parents. Never had any attention, or encouragement. Got into the army and all I got was a 'hmm'. I always did well at school, to try and please them. Never worked.' 

'Must have been hard.'

'It was. But to have people love you. Applaud you for doing good things, feels so good. It makes you forget all the hard times.'

Hero complex. That's the term Aaron was looking for.

'Then I made a life here....married he man of my dreams. My husband.' John gave Aaron a sicky sweet smile, which disappeared as soon as it came.

'My husband who now knows too much.' he put the gag back in Aaron's mouth, before leaving the flat. Aaron was left alone in the dark. Scared.