Misery Turns

Title: Misery Turns

Author: Aithilin(nimcuran_aithilin@hotmail.com)

Rating: R

Pairing: A/L

Warnings: slash, complete AU, self-mutilation, severe depression, attempted suicide, all the fun stuff.

Disclaimer: Not mine, never will be, I'm just torturing them. The song title is from the Faces of Sarah. I only own Legolas' cat Sasquatch 'Sassy' [She's based on my loyal old feline that died two years ago]

Summary: Legolas comes from a broken home, that isn't quite broken yet. He hates his life, and has no friends. Until a new kid shows up at his school.

A/N: I was severely depressed when I wrote this. Hey, better to make a fictional character act out, rather than hurt yourself eh? One of my more suicidal moments. The only reason I'm using the Tolkien characters for this, is because I'm used to them, and my story didn't end like this one does. Flame if you want, but I had to get this one out. It's all based in reality, I've gone through it, I just wish I had someone like the character I made Aragorn to be when I did.

My dog just died while I was writing this, so let me just say goodbye to Tessa, my beautiful golden greyhound that had put thirteen years of fun and incredibly fast running in my life. I'll miss you Tess', may Anubis guide you to your destination. :'(

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Legolas tried to close his eyes and block out the sounds of the latest fight. His mother would use any excuse to argue with his father, and the newest one was how Legolas' cat had caught a mouse and it wasn't disposed of immediately. Finally, Legolas' sharp hearing picked up a crash and he sighed; the usual apathy washed over him.

Pulling back the covers, barely disturbing Sassy, Legolas headed for the washroom. He heard the door to the apartment slam and knew that his mother would not return for another day or two. He turned to faucet for the cold water and stepped in the tub, still clothed. He wanted to feel something, anything, as the cold water grew steadily colder. He closed his eyes and let it poor over him, wishing he was anywhere else with his father. Far away from the too-small apartment, far away from the high school where he had no friends, far away from the life he had.

"Legolas?" his father called from the hallway. Legolas heard the door open. "Oh God, Legolas."

The seventeen year-old blonde felt his father's arms around him, lifting him. He had always been small for his age, and Thranduil was stronger than he looked. Legolas felt himself being carried back to his room, and his only thoughts were wondering if his father would be angry with him.

*******************************************

Legolas avoided most of the crowd as he tried to make his way to his advanced english class. Kids bumped into him, none of which payed him any mind. He ducked into the classroom, making his way to his seat at the back of the class after placing his assignment on the teacher's desk. He savoured the time alone, taking up his book to finish reading in the last few minutes before class started.

As usual, kids started filing in a minute to thirty seconds before the final bell, taking their seats while the teacher started attendance. Just after the bell, one last kid came in and handed the teacher a paper.

The teacher nodded and turned to the class. "Class, this is Aragorn Teleconter. Give him your respect as you would any other student."

Legolas studied the dark-haired teenager as Aragorn made his way to the empty seat a few desks away from hPippPippin Took whispered to his friend Merry Bradybuck a few rows a head of him.

"What kind of name is 'Aragorn?'"

Merry hit his friend's shoulder, "What kind of name is Pip? Did you get number four in math?"

Legolas ignored the rest of it as the teacher began his lecture on proper essay formats for their upcoming comparison essay. His mind wandered back to the morning, the twins, Elladan and Elrohir hadn't been around today, giving most of the other kids more than enough reason to pick on him.

The class ended quickly, the last period of the day was usually the shortest. As he made his way to the door, one of the tougher kids decided to kock him against a desk. Legolas bent to pick up his books wordlessly, and mentally cursed when he couldn't find his copy of 'Hamlet'.

"Here."

He looked up to see Aragorn holding his book out to him. Legolas stood quickly and accepted it. "Thanks."

Aragorn kept pace with him as they left the classroom. "So, uh, who's your favourite character?"

It took Legolas a moment to register the question, "Oh, Ophelia."

Aragorn raised an eyebrow, "But she went crazy and commited suicide."

Legolas quickened his pace and headed down the way way to his locker. "I know."

*************

Thranduil was home early, as was normal. Legolas put his bookbag in his room and poured some food for Sassy. He picked up the cat's water dish and went to the kitchen to refill it.

"How do you feel?" Thranduil asked as he put the groceries he had picked up after work away. Legolas shrugged and managed a weak smile as he put some cold water in the metal dish.

"How long until dinner?"

"About an hour, why?"

"I want to go to the drug stbefobefore it closes."

Thranduil nodded and Legolas went to put the dish next to the bowl Sassy was already eating from. He kneeled down and scratched behind Sassy's ears before gathering the money from the drawer in his desk and leaving.

The store wasn't far, two blocks away from his apartment. There were a few of the guys from school hanging out front, talking and ignoring him. Inside, some of the girls he recognized were by the makeup and magazines. Legolas merely grabbed some bandages from the first-aid aisle before heading to the art and school stuff to get a refill of blades for his exacto knife. Quickly paying the ten dollars, he ignored the other kids and headed back home.

Spring was just starting and all of the snow had turned to slush. A light rain was ust starting as well. He put the stuff in his room and went to the kitchen to see if his father needed any help making dinner. After about five minutes, they were eating the soup that had been prepared.

"When do you think Mom will be back this time?"

"I don't know."

Legolas nodded.

****************

It was eleven pm and Legolas knew that his father was asleep. He loved his father, he really did, but he couldn't help himself from doing this.

Legolas replaced the blade in his knife with one of the sharper ones, bringing it down on his left arm. He followed the marks he had made before; one long one from wrist to elbow, not deep enough to kill him, just draw blood; eight shorter ones, four on either side of the long one. He watched the blood drip and closed his eyes, focusing on the pain before wrapping his arm in some of the bandage he had picked up. Tomorrow was another day.

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Legolas sat in the caferteria by himself. He had a new book now, one of his old favourites: A Midsummer Night's Dream. He was alone at the table, having not eaten the 'food' his school had come up with. A tray was placed across from him and Legolas looked up to see Aragorn sitting down.

"Mind if I sit with you?"

Legolas shrugged and went back to reading. Aragorn frowned, trying to think up a conversation topic. "So, uh, what are you doing after school."

"Going home."

Aragorn raised an eyebrow, "You're really hard to talk to, you know that?"

Legolas marked his page and closed the book, meeting Aragorn's eyes. "What is it that you want?"

"Friendship."

Legolas stood, "Right." He started to walk away and Aragorn was about to follow when a warning bell rang, signalling the end of lunch.

*****

Classes lasted too long for Legolas' liking, he had practically bolted out of his seat to get to his locker. He gathered his things quickly and left. As he descended the front steps to the main street, he saw Aragorn speaking with one of the other kids. A russet-haired teen named Boromir that Legolas hadn't necessarily liked.

He hurried by and started home, hoping his father would have an appointment to go to so he could call Elladan and Elrohir. Sassy greeted him as soon as he entered the door with one of her sqeeky meows.

"Dad?" Legolas put his bag down and picked up the little grey cat. He saw the paper by the phone and checked the note;

'Legolas,

I'll be back later, around nine.'

Legolas held Sassy up in front of him, "Looks like it's just you and me."

He let the cat down, smiling as she caught sight of the black tip of her tail and started to 'chase' it. He looked at the phone for a minute before picking it up and dialing the twins' number.

"Hello?"

"Hey, it's Legolas."

"Hey! Elladan here, what's new?"

"Nothing."

"Sure. So, why'd you call?"

"Want to do something."

There was a loud thump as Sassy hit a wall and came crying to Legolas.

"What was that?" Elladan's voice asked as Legolas picked up the cat.

"Just Sassy chasing her tail again."

"So, what do you want to do?"

"Pizza, maybe?"

There was a pause on Elladan's end and Legolas knew that his friend was checking with his brother. "Sure. We'll be at your place in five."

Legolas hung up and placed Sassy on a counter. Elladan and Elrohir went to a different school, having left the one Legolas still attended. He put his bag back in his room and grabbed some money, just in case. Sassy followed him and he cuddled her for a few minutes before putting her down on his desk and closing the door to his room. He quickly scribbled down a note for his father and left when he heard the knock on the door. As expected, the twins stood there, identical smiles on their faces.

"Give it up you two, I can tell you apart just by height."

Elladan, the taller one, sighed, "You're no fun."

Elrohir shook his head, "So what's new with you?"

"Nothing," Legolas said. "Though there is this new guy at school."

"Oh?" Elladan raised an eyebrow. "Is he cute?"

Elrohir punched his brother in the arm. "You're disgusting El'. What's his name? Maybe we've heard of him."

"Aragorn."

Both twins shook their head and shrugged. Elladan held the door for Legolas and his brother when they got to their favourite pizza place. Elrohir went to order their usual veggie pizza and drinks while Elladan and Legolas took a seat in one of the booths.

Elladan played with the salt shaker, "So, tell me about this guy."

Legolas shrugged, "I don't know. I have nothing against him."

"But you have nothing for him too, right?"

Legolas nodded. Elladan caught Legolas arm and pulled back the long sleeve, exposing the bandages, still spotted slightly with blood.

"Not again, Legolas. Why?"

Legolas shrugged and pulled his arm away, pulling his sleeve back down as three people passed by and Elrohir came with a tray of their usual drinks. Elrohir saw the look on his brother's face, "What?"

Elladan nodded towards Legolas, "Show him."

Legolas sighed and obeyed. Elrohir frowned, "Again? Why?"

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

"Legolas, if you're having problems-"

"I. Don't. Want. To talk about it," Legolas hissed so those around him wouldn't hear. He started to get up, "Maybe this was a bad idea."

Elrohir caught Legolas' arm, "Legolas, stay. We won't ask. But you should really talk to someone."

Legolas crossed his arms on the table and lay his chin on them. "And say what? Oh, I got bored and happened to have a knife?"

"We'll leave it be," Elrohir assured and Legolas nodded. Legolas straightened as the pizza was placed in front of them. They started their meal in usual fashion, though Elladan watched Legolas sadly for most of it.

Three other teens came in, taking a seat by one of the front windows. Legolas indicated the dark-haired one, "That's Aragorn."

The twins looked over, seeing Aragorn with the well-known Boromir and Arwen. Elladan looked over the other teen and shrugged.

"Nothing special."

Elrohir looked at his brother after finishing off his second slice. "Not while I'm eating."

"What? I just said he's nothing special. Why he's hanging out with Boromir, I have no idea."

"Probably Arwen," Elrohir said as he reached for a third slice. Elladan smacked Elrohir's arm and took it instead. Legolas shook his head and smiled at his friends' antics, finishing off his Sprite(tm).

"So when do you get your midterm marks?" Elrohir asked.

Legolas shrugged, "Friday, I think."

Elladan smiled, "Well, if you didn't fail too badly, think your dad will let you stay over a night or two? We just got one of those huge plasma screens."

Legolas smiled, "My marks are always better than yours. I'll see if I can."

Legolas felt eyes on him as he and the twins paid, left the tip, and left. He knew Aragorn was watching him, and it was starting to get unnerving. Elrohir started to balance on the ledge of the sidewalk as they walked down the street.

"So now what? When do you need to get back, Legolas?"

"Half an hour, any later and I'll call Dad."

"Your mom's out again?" Elrohir asked, recieving a shove into the slush from Elladan. Legolas just nodded.

Elladan smiled at Legolas, "Do you want to come over? Maybe play something?"

Legolas shook his head, "Nah. I should get back, I have some homework to do."

The twins nodded and walked Legolas to his apartment door before heading the half block to their own home.

"What was that push for?" Elrohir asked when they had gotten into the elevator. Elladan glared at him.

"You know better than to ask about his mom. She's never there."

Elrohir looked down, "Look, I know he doesn't have the stuff we do, but still. Act normal, right?"

Elladan sighed, "He needs someone to talk to."

"Who does?"

The twins looked up and stepped out of the elevator to be greeted by their father. The Peredhels were considerably well-off, Elrond was a lawyer and the twins' mother, Celebrian, was a proffesor at the local university. Needless to say, they had a nice place.

"Legolas," Elladan said. "I think he just needs someone to complain to."

Elrond faced them, "Isn't that what you're for?"

"Dad. This is serious," Elladan continued. "...H-he's hurt himself again."

Elrond sighed, "Have you talked to him?"

Elrohir nodded, "He won't listen to us."

"Maybe I'll talk to his father," Elrond mused. "I have a deal going through that requires him."

Thranduil was a paralegal, and while he provided enough for his family to live in relative comfort, without a dual income, life could be hard. Legolas' mother had always remained a mystery, why Legolas' parents didn't just divorce had been a curiosity to their closest friends, Elrond and his family.

"Well, I ~know~ you two have homework," Elrond said. The twins sighed but went to their respective rooms. They could check on Legolas later.

**************************

Legolas sat at his desk, alternating between dangling a string for Sassy and finishing his math work. He heard a door slam and knew that it was his mother. He quickly turned off his desk lamp and picked up his cat. He sat in the darkness of his room until he heard the door close again and a car speed away. Kissing Sassy's fuzzy little head, he quickly finished the work and went to lie on his bed; stroking the cat when she jumped up in front of him and started purring.

He closed his eyes anded hed his father would get back soon.

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Elladan and Elrohir were waiting for Legolas on Friday when the blonde came out of his school. They smiled in greeting and Legolas cocked his head as he joined them on the sidewalk.

"Why're you here?" Legolas asked as they started walking.

Elrohir grinned, "We were let out early as the start of our March Break."

Elladan took the slip of paper that Legolas had been holding and looked it over. "Hey! You got a 95 in Calculus?"

Elrohir grabbed the paper, "What?!"

Legolas sighed and pulled his marks back. "I'll ask my dad tonight if I can stay over for a bit."

The apartment door was open and Legolas smiled as he saw his father sitting at the kitchen table with Elrond, papers spread out on most surfaces. The twins smiled at their father and greeted Thranduil. Legolas handed the paper with his marks over to his father and smiled as Thranduil did.

"Dad, could I spend a night-"

"Or two-" Elladan added.

Elrohir grinned, "Or three-"

Legolas elbowed his friend in the ribs, "Over with the Peredhels?"

Thranduil raised a questioning eyebrow to Elrond and the latter nodded his consent on the matter. The twins practically cheered and started pulling Legolas to his room to 'help' pack some clothes. Elrond stole a glance at the marks and smiled.

"Are you certain that you don't want him in the same school as the twins?"

Thranduil sighed, "I can't afford a private school, you know that. Especially now."

Elrond sat back, "He could easily get a scholarship."

Thranduil nodded, "I know, but not now. Not with so much happening."

"When are you going to tell him about this 'case'?"

Thranduil looked over the divorce papers, "Soon. Let him have some fun first, to take his mind off of a few things."

The darker-haired man frowned, "You need to talk to him, Thranduil; the twins were worried about him since Wednesday. They said that he had cut hmself again."

Thranduil put his head in his hands, "I know...He's trying to hide it. What am I supposed to do, Elrond? Monday night, after Alothrhis left, I found him in the bathroom. Just sitting, fully clothed, under a stream of freezing water. What am I supposed to say to him? How can I tell him everything's fine when I don't know if it is myself?"

Elrond placed a hand on Thranduil's shoulder, "Thranduil, it's been a year since...that. He needs you right now. Just talk to him before he and the twins leave?"

Thranduil nodded and both looked up to see Sassy running into the room with a ball of catnip in her mouth. Thranduil smiled despite himself, "Do you think you could let Legolas take her with him for a bit as well?"

Elrond smiled as he watched the cat flop over, licking the thin fabric that stood between it and the catnip. "Of course."

Thranduil stood when the twins came as well, saying that Legolas had kicked them out. The three watched as Thranduil went to his son's room, but left it, the twins finding entertainment with the cat instead.

"Legolas?"

Thranduil saw Legolas looking through some CDs and deciding which ones to bring with him. Thranduil sat on the bed and patted the space beside him, waiting until Legolas sat before speaking.

"I know what you've done to your arm again," Thranduil said, his heart breaking at the look of shame that crossed his son's face. "Show me, please?"

Legolas nodded silently and pulled up his sleeve, exposing the bandages and unwrapping them. Thranduil winced as he saw the cuts, Legolas didn't take his eyes off of the sheets of his bed. Thranduil gently took the arm in his hands, examining what his son had done to himself sadly. His fingers traced the faded marks that told of a cut far deeper than the ones he was looking at. He raised his other hand and cupped Legolas' cheek, forcing his son to look at him.

"Legolas...why?"

Legolas' eyes dropped again, "I don't know, Dad. I just..."

Thranduil shook his head, "It's alright...I know I should probably tell you that everything's alright, but you know it isn't. You know that things between me and your mother are worse than they've ever been."

Legolas nodded slowly and Thranduil continued. "I've filed for a divorce, Legolas. As well as custody of you. Elrond has agreed to help me get everything needed, as well as to represent me should it come to that. Because you're seventeen, no one will be coming to make sure that this is a safe place for you...But you will be asked who you want to stay with..."

"You know what I'll say, Dad," Legolas said softly. Thranduil smiled and kissed his son's forehead.

"I know. I you you to stay with Elrond for the week, okay? Just until this is sorted out?"

Legolas nodded and Thranduil stood slowly. "Legolas, you know I love you. And you know that I always have time for you, regardless."

Another nod and Thranduil sighed. "A week is all, Legolas. Then we can move on."

"I know."

Thranduil picked up a 'kitty-leash' and handed it to his son. "Elrond said that you could take Sass with you for the week. I think it's time that furrball had a nice change of scenery...Preferably somewhere without catnip."

Legolas smiled and Thranduil turned to leave his son to packing. "I'm sorry, Dad."

Thranduil looked at Legolas sadly, "Don't be. I know this is hard for you. I just want you to talk to me."

"I know."

Elrond looked up from where he was watching his sons torment Sassy by holding the catnip away from her. Thranduil nodded to the silent question in his friend's eyes and sat down in his seat. Legolas came out of his room with a fully packed bookbag and the leash for Sassy. The twins smiled and Elladan picked up the cat so Legolas could hook the leash onto the cat's collar. Elrohir picked up the ball of catnip and teased Sass with it for a bit before going with his brother to wait by the front door. Legolas quickly hugged his father before leaving with his friends.

"Don't worry, Thranduil," Elrond said. "He'll be well taken care of."

Thranduil nodded, "I know."

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Legolas watched the twins take advantage of the free sample service of the ice cream place they were in. Legolas had simply bought a little dish of his favourite flavour and sat back to watch the twins. He had already spent two days with them, visiting his father for a few hours on both days though. Celebrian had had a lot of meetings to get to, but was more than happy to let Legolas look through some of the textbooks she had; amazed when he had answered the questions correctly. Elrond had simply smiled and let Legolas do what he wished.

The snow was quickly melting now, the fresh water running in little rivulets to the drains. Legolas watched the sunlight glint off of the water outside, his view blocked momentarily by three familiar figures. Aragorn, Boromir, and Arwen walked passed the window, opening the door and entering, laughing.

The twins finally sat at the table with Legolas, having bought a combination of flavours. They noticed their friend's preoccupation and Elladan frowned when he saw what was distractiegolegolas. Elrohir pulled his brother up, going to pester the man behind the counter until they could get more free food. Legolas watched as Aragorn came over and stand by the table.

"Mind if I sit here?"

Legolas nodded and Aragorn took a seat. The dark-haired youth smiled in a friendly manner, "How's your break so far?"

"Fine."

"Come on, can't you try being social?"

Legolas rolled his eyes, "What do you expect me to say?"

Elladan came over, looking somewhat tense. "Almost ready to leave, Legolas?"

Legolas sighed, he knew that Elladan had taken on the protective 'older brother' role and would not rest until he was satisfied that Legolas was alright. "Elladan, this is Aragorn. Aragorn, Elladan."

The two looked each other over and nodded their greetings and Elrohir came over, being introduced as well. Aragorn stood and turned to Les.
s.

"Do you want to do anything, maybe hang out tomorrow?"

Legolas saw the twins frown, "If they can come too."

Aragorn nodded his consent, "Meet here? Around noon?"

The twins and Legolas nodded. Aragorn left to rejoin Boromir and Arwen by the door. Legolas stood and he and the twins started their own way back to their block, Legolas had planned on seeing his father before returning to his temporary home.

The apartment door was unlocked and Legolas was the first in. Not seeing his father anywhere, he started to look around. The twins followed him into the kitchen and all three youths gasped.

"Dad!"

Elladan was the first to a phone and dialed 911.

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"Dad! Please, speak, move, anything!"

Elrohir was kneeling next to the still form of Thranduil even when the paramedics came in. Elladan called Elrond and the twins' father was with them in less than five minutes. He pulled his son and Legolas away so Thranduil could be wheeled out; while he let go of Elrohir, he kept his hands on Legolas' shoulders.

Elladan was slumped against a wall, straightning when Elrond started to gather them. He took the keys from the kitchen table and locked the door once they were all out.

"It'll be alright, Legolas. I'll find out what happened."

Legolas nodded mutely, in shock.

***********

The waiting room was virtually empty and the twins were trying to coax Legolas into talking while Elrond went to speak with one of the doctors. Finally, the twins gave up and just sat with their despondant friend.

Elrond came from one of the offices and thanked the doctor he had been talking to. Legolas stood as Elrond came over.

"It was a heart atack," Elrond said sadly. "They haven't found a cause for it. But he will be fine."

Legolas visibly relaxed, "Can I go see him?"

Elrond nodded and told the twins to wait for him as he took Legolas down the hallway to where Thranduil was resting. He left quickly, leaving Legolas and his father together.

"Dad?" Legolas asked softly, he smiled when he saw his father smile weakly and beckon him over. Thranduil wrapped an arm around Legolas in a weak hug.

"Are you alright?"

Thranduil nodded, "I'll stay here for at least a week, Legolas. I want you to stay with Elrond for that time."

Legolas nodded, he couldn't stop the tears that he had held back so far. He buried his head against Thranduil's ch "D "Daddy..."

Thranduil soothed his son as best he could, "It'll be alright. One week and I'll be home."

They stayed like that until a nurse came in to tell Legolas that it was time to leave. Thranduil kissed his son's brow before releasing him. Elrond met Legolas outside the room's door and started to lead him away. Legolas remained silent on their car trip back to Elrond's home. Legolas wasted no time in returning to the room that had been given to him and Elrond took his two sons aside.

"Keep a closer eye on him. Give him some time, but we need to keep an eye on how he deals with this."

The twins nodded.

*******

Legolas flopped down on his bed, letting himself cry into his pillow. Sassy jumped up and Legolas held her, nuzzling the purring cat and eventually falling asleep.

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Legolas glanced at the sleeping Sassy before looking back to the knife in his right hand, its blade retracted for the moment. He had spent roughly two hours in a fitful sleep, waking from the dreamless slumber and seeing that it was around five pm. He extended the blade and started to bring it to his arm. He relished the few drops of blood already appearing under the tip of the blade. A knock on the door caused the blonde to start; the knife slipping and creating a shallow cut across his arm.

The knife was quickly hidden and his sleeve replaced. Sassy made a noise of disapproval at the movement. He straightened as the door cracked open and Elladan peeked in before coming into full view. Legolas smiled and moved over on the bed to let Elladan take a seat next to him.

"Are you alright?"

Legolas nodded and Elladan smiled. "Want to do anything?"

"Not right now."

Elladan sighed, "Please? You need to do something...anything. Just to relax a little..."

Legolas looked down; he knew Elladan meant well. "I..."

At the soft touch of Elladan's hand on his back, Legolas looked up at his friend's worried countenance. "...Maybe rent a few movies? Get some junk?"

Elladan smiled, "Sure. I'll buy."

Legolas smiled weakly and followed his friend out to the living room where Elrohir was curled up with a sketchbook on the large couch. Elladan leaned over the back of the couch and grinned. "Can I borrow some money?"

Elrohir raised an eyw atw at Legolas' ad snd snort. "Why?"

Elladan grinned, "Movies and food."

The younger twin put his sktchbook and pencil down and stretched. "Well I'm coming with you; otherwise, you'll just get a crappy romance."

"Well, excuse me for preferring a plot."

Elrond called out a curfew as the three left; the twins continuing to banter. It was already starting to get dark as the trio made their way to the convenience store a block away from them. Legolas stopped suddenly, his brow furro at at the sight of a familiar car parked in front of their destination. The twins looked around, trying to see what had caused the abrupt halt. Elladan frowned at the sight of Alothrhis' car.

"Do you want to try another place, Legolas?" Elladan asked softly.

Legolas sighed and shook his head. "No, it's alright."

Elrohir led the way in, growing angry as soon as he saw Alothrhis 'speaking' with clerclerk, oblivious to the fact that her only son just walked in the door. The three made their way to the movies, grabbing a few Tim Burton movies to put them all in a better mood [A/N: And some people where I get my dark humour from]. Elladan went off to find some decent snacks while Elrohir picked up 'Heathers' and 'Clockwork Orange' and added them to the pile Legolas was holding.

"You alright carrying that?"

Legolas nodded, "Just get a bag later."

The three met again at the counter; Legolas' mother was no where in sight, neither was the clerk she had been speaking with. Another young woman quickly completed her task and Elladan took the bag with their stuff.


***********

Elrond shook his head as he looked over the three sleeping form in his living room. Celebrian had draped blankets over the twins on the couch and over Legolas on the huge bean bag chairs nearby. Sassy was curled up on one of the movie cases, covering most of it. The twins' cat, Phoenix the orange tabby, was eating marshmallows from a bowl on the coffee table. Elrond put Phoenix on the ground and took the bowls of ks iks into the kitchen before going to his own room.

***********

Legolas woke first, stretching and sitting up. He smiled at the sight of the twins, identical even in the way they slept, and absently scratched Sassy's ears. Elrond moved to lean against the door frame to the kitchen, a mug of coffee in hand,and, as he summoned Legolas over with a nod of his head.

Legolas sat at the kitchen table and waited for Elrond to indicate why he was there.

"How do you feel, Legolas?"

"Better than yesterday."

Elrond nodded, "The twins mentioned that you were going to meet some friends today. Are you still up to it?"

Legolas nodded, "I think so...I-I want to visit my father though..."

"Of course. I'm going to be busy today though. I can drive you down tomorrow. I'm sorry I can't today."

"It's alright...Can I call him?"

"Yes, yes," Elrond motioned to the phone hanging from the wall. "The room number is 216. You know the hospital number?"

Legolas nodded and Elrond left to go wake the twins. Legolas quickly dialed, entering his father's room number.

"Hello?"

"Hi Dad..."

"Legolas. How are you?"

Legolas smiled sadly, "I should be asking you that, Daddy."

There was a soft chuckle on the other end. "It'll be a week, Legolas. Don't worry."

"I know...I'm going to visit tomorrow, is that alright?"

"Of course it is. Have some fun today, Legolas. Enjoy your break from school."

"I will, Dad."

"Take care, Legolas."

"Yep. I'll see you tomorrow, Dad."

Legolas hung up and went back to the living room where the twins were stretching. Elrond had left to get ready for his day.

"So what do you want to do today?" Elrohir asked, steadying himself on the couch after nearly falling off.

"We were going to meet Aragorn around noon," Legolas reminded his friend.

Elladan frowned, "Are you sure you want to?"

Legolas nodded, "Yeah. Just to get out for a while..."

The twins nodded and Elrohir looked at the clock. "It's almost ten...Do you want to start getting ready? We might as well get there early...Ice cream for breakfast."

"Don't even think of it," Elrond admonished as he passed through the room with a briefcase. "At the very least, take a muffin before you go."

The twins rolled their eyes, "Yes Father."

Elrond glared at his sons, "I mean it, you two. Legolas, help yourself as usual."

Legolas smiled and nodded. Elrond left for his work and the twins started to get ready, letting Legolas have the shower first.

**********

It was around eleven-thirty before they had reached the shop where they were supposed to meet Aragorn. The twins had needed to put both Sassy and Phoenix in their bedroom, with door slightly open(just enough for the catsto push it open if they wanted to get ou), to keep them from following.

Aragorn and Arwen were already there, waiting.

"I thought Boromir was going to be here too," Elladan said.

Aragorn smiled, "He had to drive his little brother to the carnival. I was actually thinking that we could go too."

The twins glanced at Legolas and the blonde nodded. "Sure. Sounds fun."

Elrohir grinned, "Well, let's get going then."

Aragorn raised an eyebrow and Arwen giggled at Elrohir's eagerness. Elladan rolled his eyes, "Junk food addict."

Elrohir stuck his tongue out at his brother and Arwen nodded sagely. "I know the torment of it."

They had to take two buses to the grounds where the fair was being held. Elladan decided to call Elrond and tell him that they'd be out later than expected.

Elrohir immediately found a cotten candy vendor and Arwen followed his example. Legolas watched as Elladan and Aragorn tried to beat each other in random games, gradually getting through a bag of popcorn he had bought. The blonde saw several familiar faces, curiously hinghing as his school's guidance counsellor, Gandalf, wandered around; joined by the literature teacher, Bilbo Baggins [A/N: Sorry, couldn't resist].

"Hey."

The friends turned to see Boromir coming up, leaving two fifteen year-olds by a ring-toss game. Legolas noted how Boromir's gaze lingered on Arwen before he smiled; the blonde recognized the almost empty look in the redd'sd's eyes.

A few pleasantries were exchanged before Boromir bought some food and wandered off to a picnic table when the others found another interesting game. Legolas followed Boromir and took a seat next to the older teen.

"Are you alright?"

"Fine."

"You're lying," Legolas said simply. "What's wrong?"

Boromir looked Legolas over, "What do you care?"

Legolas shrugged, "Nothing. But I know that look. I'll go now if you want to be left alone."

Boromir shook his head, "No, it's alright."

He indicated where Arwen was practically hanging off of Aragorn. "We broke up...She left, for him."

"Sorry."

"Don't be," Boromir looked down at his drink. "I did love her, but I feel relieved...kinda."

Legolas nodded, "There's something else, isn't there?"

Boromir didn't answer, his eyes focusing on something beyond them. Legolas sighed and lay his head on his crossed arms on the table.

"I't 't really want to be here," the blonde confessed. "I don't think you do either."

Boromir cocked his head, "What do you mean?"

"We both have too much on our minds. There's no way we could enjoy this...And the others don't understand that."

"You're right..."

The two sat in silence for a few minutes. Finally, Boromir spoke.

"Where would you rather be?"

"You first."

The red-head sighed, "Home. Away from people, and with a good book."

Legolas closed his eyes, "With my father...He's sick right now...A heart attack."

"I'm sorry. Will he be alright?"

Legolas nodded, "Yeah."

Boromir hesitated, "Uhmmm...I-I know you've had problems...Some kids were talking at school, about marks on your arms and stuff..."

Legolas stayed silent and Boromir tried to clarify. "I'm not judging! I can't...I mean, I've done that too."

"What?"

Boromir nodded and rolled up the sleeve of his jacket, revealing long, fresh, cuts along his right arm. "I think it's why Arwen left me."

Legolas cocked his head, "What do you mean?"

A little snort was his answer, "Aragorn is stable."

Legolas rolled up his own sleeve, letting Boromir examine his own cuts. The russet-haired teen traced the shallow cut that had been made the day before.

"You slipped here."

Legolas nodded silently. Boromir frowned when he saw the faint marks closer to Legolas' hand.

"What happened?"

Legolas shook his head, "You tell first."

Boromir smiled slightly. "My mom died when I was fifteen. My father got into drinking since then...I've never been able to keep a long term relationship. And my marks suck."

"Sorry."

"Don't be. I'm not. So what's your story?"

Legolas looked away, replacing his sleeve. "My mom...she doesn't even care that I exist. My dad and I are close, but things just seem to get out of hand at times...We don't have a lot of money...I don't know, I just can't deal."

Boromir put a hand on Legolas' shoulder, "How about this: we talk. Y'know, like confide, or whatever. Since we both know what it's like."

Legolas smiled weakly, "Maybe."

Boromir rolled his sleeve down, "I think your friend there is going to kill me soon."

Legolas turned as saw Elladan frowning at them and sighed. "Sorry, he's protective."

"I can understand that."

"What do you mean?"

Boromir just shrugged and stood, moving back to where Aragorn was buying Arwen a drink. Legolas followed and joined the twins. Elladan smiled and held out a stuffed cutsie white elaphant with wings toy for him.

"Something to give to Sassy," Elladan explained.

Legolas smiled, following his friends to their games and joining in a few.

***********************************************************************
Legolas sighed and chewed on the edge of his pencil nervously. He had almost completely forgotten about the book report he had due at the first day back from break. He saw the twins out of the corner of his eye, 'attempting' to finish their assignment under their father's watchful eye. The blonde made a face, finished off a hastily written sentence and shut his books.

"Finished, Legolas?" Elrond asked with amusement when he saw the glare Legolas was giving his copy of 'A Tale of Two Cities.'

Legolas nodded, "As close to finished as I'll get."

The twins grinned and closed their books. Elrohir smiled sweetly at his father, "Since we're all finished...I think we should go have some fun."

"And where would this 'fun' happen to be?" Elrond turned back to his newspaper.

"The..." Elrohir tried to think of a good place.

"Mall!" Elladan said suddenly.

"Yeah, the mall."

Legolas smiled and Elrond shook his head. The twins bounced up, pulled Legolas with them, and gave Elrond their most pleading look. Elrond sighed, "Fine. But be back by nine."

They nodded and left. The day was warmer than usual, and most of the snow had already melted; leaving little rivulets along the sides of the streets. The nearest mall was also the largest, and was roughly ten blocks away from them. Elrohir moved to walk ahead of Elladan and Legolas, in an abnormally 'bouncy' mood.

Legolas closed his eyes to feel the warmth of the sun reflecting off of the buildings and street when they stopped at a corner. They were just past their area, to a wealthier one. The twins still chatted while they waited for the cars to pass and Legolas looked around. There weren't apartments here; large houses lined the streets instead. He wondered who could actually afford them as he started to cross the street with the twins.

"Hey! Legolas!"

The three turned at the sound of the voice to see Boromir coming over, leisurly, and with a seemingly hyper dog on a leash in front of him. Legolas smiled in greeting.

"What are you doing out here?" Boromir asked. Elrohir knelt in front of the dog and fell when he recieved a lick.

"We were going to the mall," Legolas said. "Do you..Can you come? Or do you have something else to do?"

Boromir smiled, "I'd love to go with you. I'll get my brother to walk Tessa."

"Tessa?"

Boromir nodded and started towards one of the houses. "Do you want to come in?"

Elrohir's eyes grew, "You live *here*?"

"Yeah," Boromir opened the door for them and called out for his brother, Faramir. As soon as he had given the leash over, and the tawny, whip-like dog said its good-bye to Elrohir by jumping up on him and licking him again.

"So how have you been?" Boromir asked. Elladan glanced between the two, frowning slightly.

Legolas smiled, "Fine."

"Hey, what store first?" Elrohir asked as they came into one of the mall's parking lots.

"How about food court?" Elladan suggested, he took a step between Legolas and Boromir unconsciously. "Phantasmagoria is close to there."[A/N: Phantasmagoria is a kick-ass music store, but only the good one in Montreal carries Blind Guardian :(]

At a collective nod, the group headed to their destination.

************

Boromir toyed with the straw to his coke and looked at Legolas from across the table. The twins had left to go check out a new store, Elrohir practically dragging Elladan away.

"How *have* you been, Legolas?"

The blonde shrugged, "Fine, I guess. What about you?"

Boromir looked at his drink, "The same, more or less. How's your father? You said he was sick, eh?"

Legolas nodded, "He's doing fine. He'll be out of the hospital the day after next."

"So the day after we start school again?"

Legolas nodded again, "How are things with Aragorn?"

Boromir shrugged, "Okay. I don't hold anything against him, he's a good guy. You should talk to him, he's a lot of fun."

There was an uneasy silence between them before Boromir spoke again.

"So, you have a girlfriend yet?"

"What? No," Legolas shook his head. "I'm not interested in that."

"In what? Girls?"

Legolas shrugged and Boromir looked at him curiously. "Guys?"

When Legolas' eyes widened, Boromir spoke again. "I'm not against stuff like that. Hell, I'm bi."

"I-I've never given it thought...I've noticed some of the girlsschoschool...but..."

"Notice the guys too?"

Legolas nodded meekly and Boromir smiled. "Hey, it's alright. I'm the same. I was really uneasy at first...But I just keep an open mind."

"Right...Wanna go catch up to the twins?"

Boromir smiled slightly and nodded. He picked up the tray where they had placed the rest of the trash and got rid of it. They wandered to where the twins had disappeared to.

***********************************************************************

Legolas smiled as he got home, finally, to see his father waiting for him. Elrond was there too, of course, but that didn't stop Legolas fpracpractically throwing himself into Thranduil's arms. Elrond laughed and made the excuse to go see to some paperwork for the divorce that was still going through.

"You're back!"

Thranduil smiled, "That I am. But ease up a little."

Legolas smiled and relinquished his hold on his father. "Can we do something tonight? To celebrate?"

Thranduil sighed, "I can't tonight, Legolas. I promise we'll do something tomorrow though. I have to catch up on something first."

Legolas didn't let his smile falter and nodded. "Sure, I have some homework to do, anyway."

The teen headed to his room, where Sassy was already waiting for him. He assumed Elrond had brought her over. He flopped down on his bed and sighed when Sassy started to headbutt him.

"How do you do it?" Legolas asked the cat. "Sleep all day, do nothing, eat, purr...Why couldn't I be a cat?"

Sassy just purred and headbutted Legolas' cheek.

**************

Legolas lay awake on his bed, just listening to the muted voices of Elrond and Thranduil, as well as the almost constant purring of Sassy. He swore, that cat was a total up. up. He was glad that his father had returned, but he still felt lost.

He gingerly picked up the small knife and withdrew the blade; pressing it against his arm.

*******************

"Oh look, the freak," someone said just loudly enough for the five or six people around to hear. Boromir looked around and saw Legolas come into the classroom.

The russet-haired teen ignored his friends and turned back to his book. He winced when he saw how Legolas was careful not to put pressure on his left arm. The other teens continued, just loud enough for Legolas, but not the teacher up front, to hear. The next time Boromir looked up, his eyes met the hurt ones of the blonde.

Legolas stood, gathered his things and just left when the others in Boromir's group continued their 'games' without even the teacher interfering. Boromir put his book down and prepared for the class lecture, promising to look for Legolas later.

***********************************************************************
Legolas felt relieved when he unlocked the front door to his apartment. His father must be off with Elrond. He picked up Sassy and went to his room, replaying the day in his mind. He felt betrayed.

"You wouldn't care what others said, would you Sass?" Legolas asked the purring cat now in his lap. He sighed and lay back on his bed, the cat moving to his stomach to curl up. He could hear his father coming in. He felt close to t, he, he wanted someone to talk to. He shifted on the bed, Sassy protesting as her 'pillow' moved. A shape of whitughtught his eye from the floor and Legolas recognized it as the overstuffed 'thingy' Elladan had won at the fair. The blonde smiled slowly and got up, hearing the soft padding of Sassy as she followed him.

"Dad? Can I go out with Elladan if he's up to it?"

"Sure."

Legolas smiled and picked up the phone.

********************

Elladan chewed on the end of his pencil, praying for an excuse to dump his homework. Elrohir was flying through his algebra and Elladan just glared at him.

"I hate you."

Elrohir looked up, "Why this time?"

"'Cause you're a fucking genius."

Elrond's voice floated in from the kitchen, "Elladan, language."

"Sorry Dad."

Elrohir sighed and went back to his work. "No you're not."

Both twins jumped when the phone rang and Elladan was the first to get to it. "Hello?"

"Hey!" Elladan turned to his brother and mouthed 'it's Legolas'. "What's up?"

After a few seconds, Elladan grinned, "Hold on, I'll check."

Placing a hand over the reciever, Elladan called to his parents. "Can Elrohir and I go over to Legolas' for a bit? We'll be back by ten."

"Fine," both Celebrian and Elrond said at the same time. The twins grinned.

"We'll be over in five. 'Kay. Pizza? Sure. See ya."

Elladan hung up and immediately closed his books, not bothering to put them anywhere. Elrohir pulled their jackets out of the closet by the door and tossed Elladan his. They stopped to pull on their shoes and they were out the door. Five minutes later, they were at Legolas' doorstep, greeting their friend as he stepped out of the door.

"So, where to? Usual place?" Elrohir asked. Legolas nodded and the younger of the twins went ahead. Elladan hung back with Legolas, keeping behind Elrohir by a few paces.

"What's wrong?" Elladan asked. "Are you alright?"

Legolas smiled weakly, "I'll tell you later."

Elladan nodded.

*****************

Legolas had just finished explaining why he had been upset while Elrohir had taken the usual task of getting the food. Elladan frowned, wishing he could 'talk' to Boromir right now. Elladan moved from his place in the booth to sit next to Legolas. He put a hand on his friend's arm.

"Legolas? Are you okay?"

The blonde nodded, "Yeah...I just..It's hard, I thought he..."

"It's okay."

Elrohir came back with the pizza and tray of drinks. He saw the looks his brother and friend had and frowned. "What's wrong?"

Legolas sighed and explained what had upset him and soon the twins both had a look that said they would kill Boromir if they found him.

***********************************************************************
The 'meal' of pizza and soft drinks was eaten in silence, every once in a while interupted by the twins leaning over the table and whispering to each other. Finally Elrohir sat back with a satisfied smile as Legolas watched them. The blonde was both curious and amused now.

"I think we should pay a visit to the mall," Elrohir announced after a few minutes.

Legolas sipped on his drink, "I don't have any more money on me."

Elladan smiled, "Doesn't mean you can't just take a look around."

Legolas nodded and they cleared the table. The twins were determined to cheer their friend up and took a longer route to the mall, avoiding the area where they remembered Boromir's house to be.

"Whereto first?" Elladan asked. Legolas shrugged.

Elrohir grinned, "We have plenty of time, why not just look around?"

They started at the book store, a favourite for Legolas. Legolas wandered off to a section and the twins just wandered around the store together. Elrohir stopped Elladan after a trip near the front of the store, the younger twin pointed out a familiar russetred red teen just across the way, laughing with Aragorn.

Elrohir put a hand out to stop his brother, "Stay with Legolas. I'll go."

Elladan shook his head, "You're not the only-"

"Stay with him El'. Make sure he at least has some fun tonight."

Elladan sighed and nodded, leaving his brother to whatever it was he was going to do and going to catch up with Legolas.

******************

Boromir had barely caught sight of one of the twins before he was shoved against the wall.

"How dare you fucking hurt him, you asshole."

Boromir shook his head, "What the hell are you talking about?"

The dark-haired teen glanced at Aragorn, who was trying to figure out what was happening. "You told them. Legolas was devastated. How could you?"

Aragorn finally recovered from whatever shock he had and pulled the twin off. Boromir narrowed his eyes.

"I didn't tell anyone anything. And which fucking twin are you?"

"Elrohir!"

All heads turned to see Legolas coming over, Elladan by his side. Boromir saw the cold look the other half of the twin pair gave him and was suddenly incredibly grateful that they were in a relatively crowded mall. Legolas didn't meet his eyes and just put a hand on Elrohir's arm.

"Elrohir, don't. Please. Let's jgo.\go."

Boromir felt a stab of regret for not trying to find Legolas earlier. "Legolas, I-"

"Leave me alone, Boromir. Just...don't talk to me."

Elladan had come to stand by Legolas, putting a hand on both Legolas' and Elrohir's arms and gently leading them away. For once, Elrohir did as he was bid without complaint and the twins flanked Legolas as they made their way to a different part of the mall. Boromir didn't miss the protective hand going to the small of Legolas' back.

"What the hell was that?" Aragorn asked.

Boromir shook his head, "Let's just go."

*******************

The three sat on a bench outside one of the stores, Legolas put his head in his hands and Elladan was rubbing his back, trying to calm him down.

"I-I'm going to go get some drinks," Elrohir said. "I'll be back in a minute."

Legolas looked at Elladan, "Why did he have to do that? I didn't want..."

"I know. You know how Elrohir is. He just wants to help you."

Legolas snorted, "He's not very good at it."

Elladan chuckled, "I know. Do you wanna stay any longer? We could go see a movie or something."

"I don't know. Whatever."

"Legolas," whatever Elladan was going to say was cut off by Elrohir's return. "How about we head home? You could stay over for a while, Legolas. Maybe play Chrono Trigger again, you still have about ten endings before you've seen them all."

Legolas smiled slightly, "I'll watch you play."

Elladan grinned, "Sure. But you owe me."

*****************

It was nine before Legolas got home. He saw his father sitting in the kitchen, taking with someone. Legolas grinned.

"Oro!"

Oropher stood [A/N: For the record, I'm making Oropher an uncle rather than grandfather. Just for the hell of ages.] and smiled at his nephew.

"It's been a while, Legolas."

Legolas hugged his uncle and Thranduil smiled. "Oropher wants to take you on a 'day off' thing tomorrow. We also have a surprise for you."

Legolas grinned as his fatheld uld up a course calendar for the same school the twins went to.

"They agreed to sign you up this late in the semester, as long as you take a few extra courses this summer and maintain a 'B' average."

***********************************************************************
Oropher looked over at the son of his younger brother curiously. Legolas was sitting on the park bench, happily sipping the cherry slushie [A/N: Brainfreezy!!!!!*cough* Done now.] Oropher had bought him. Legolas seemed far younger than the seventeen years he was at the moment.

"So, I take it you don't like school?"

Legolas looked up, startled at the break in the comfortable silence. He shrugged, "Just the people there."

Oropher smiled, "Private school won't be much different."

"I know some people there. My best friends go there."

"Ah, supporters. And what about friends at the school you're at, or supposed to be at, now?"

Another shrug, "I'm not very good with the whole concept of social groups."

Oropher laughed and sat back, "Neither was I. Or your dad, for that matter. Must run in the family."

Legolas smiled wryly, "Some genetic defect that makes people hate me. Gee, thanks."

"Sarcasm runs in the family too."

Legolas chuckled, "So what do we do now?"

"Whatever you want."

Another shrug and Oropher sighed. "You're not sure of a lot, are you?"

Another shrug accompanied by a sly smile.

"Fine then," Oropher started; "Tell me, do you have a girlfriend?"

"I-I'm not really..."

"Interested?"

Legolas nodded. Oropher looked up, admiring the newly sprouting leaves. "I assume your father knows too?"

Another nod. The older blonde smiled, "Let's try this; have a boyfriend?"

Legolas shook his head quickly, "N-no."

Oropher seemed tjoy joy teasing his nephew, "Anyone in mind?"

Legolas blushed, "Maybe..."

The man stood, "Well, I think I've teased you long enough. We should get back. But I have a little present for you first."

Oropher pulled an envelope from his jacket pocket and handed it over. Legolas smiled and tore open one of the ends. He pulled four tickets out.

"For the comic and fantasy convention coming next week. I'm gone in a few days, so I can't use them."

Legolas grinned, "Thanks."

The walk back was slow, neither really wanting to get back too early.

***********************************************************************

Elladan yawned as he left his brother on the couch to go answer the door. Elrond and Celebrian had gone out for an evening alone and the twins had decided to take their time in getting to bed, as they had a long weekend coming. Elrohir barely glanced over the back of the couch.

The elder twin opened the door to find Legolas standing on the otherside, grinning.

"Legolas! What's up?"

"I have some great news."

Elrohir was up now, and both twins had stood back to let their friend in. Both were incredibly amazed to see Legolas look so energetic. Almost nothing like the despondant and apathetic teen they had seen a day earlier. Legolas told them about his uncle coming to visit, and being able to change schools. When they were on the couch, Legolas held out the tickets.

"Oro got them for me. There are four, so I guess you guys can pick the fourth."

Elrohir grinned, "I actually just thought of someone you should meet. He's a really cool guy, kinda weird, but nice when you get to know him. You'll meet him when you start school with us."

"Elrohir, you're rambling again."

The younger twin stuck his tongue out at his brother, "His name is Hladir."

Legolas nodding, not sure what to say at Elrohir's sudden burst of energy. He glanced at Elladan and jumped when Elrohir snapped his fingers.

"Do you want to stay over tonight? I can call Mom and Dad."

"El'..." Elladan started, not liking the way his brother seemed intent on crowding Legolas.

Legolas nodded, "I can call my dad too."

Elrohir jumped up and went to find the phone. Elladan sighed and relaxed. "You sound like you had a good day."

Legolas smiled, "I did...It was fun."

Elladan smiled, "Good. It's about time too."

"'Kay!" Elrohir called from the kitchen. "You can stay!"

Legolas stond wnd went to take the phone from Elrohir to call Thranduil.

"Hello?"

"Hi dad."

"Legolas, is everything alright?"

"Yeah, I was wondering if I could stay over here tonight. Elrond said it was okay."

There was a slight pause before Thranduil responded, "Sure. Just call tomorrow and let me know when you think you'll be back."

"'Kay."

Another pause. "Wait, Legolas, there's someone that just showed up for you...Oro said that he's a red-head, name's Boromir. Do you know him?"

Legolas hesitated, glancing at the couch where the twins were bantering. "Yeah."

"He says he needs to talk to you."

"Hold on?"

Legolas covered the mouthpiece and got the twins' attention. "Uhm. Boromir's at my house right now...says he needs to talk...Is it okay if-"

Elladan nodded, but both twins shared the same look of mistrust.

"Okay, Dad? Can you send him here? We'll talk and get it over with."

"Alright. Take care, Legolas."

"Yep."

Legolas hung up and Elladan came over to him. "Legolas..."

The blonde smiled slightly, "I'm alright. I just want him to say whatever it is he wants to say then leave me alone."

Elladan nodded. There was a knock on the door a few minutes later and Elrohir got up to answer it.

"I just want to talk to Legolas," Boromir said. Elrohir was about to say something when Legolas cut him off.

"You can say whatever you have to in front of them too."

Boromir chanced a glance at each clearly angry twin and sighed.

"I know that you probably don't believe it, but I didn't tell anyone anything."

There was a snort from Elrohir.

"If they found out, it wasn't me. I'm sorry, Legolas. I really am, but I didn't tell them anything."

Legolas looked down and Elladan stepped forward, clearly protective.

"If that's all you have to say-"

"Elladan," Legolas said quietly; "stop. Boromir, I just...I don't think you should come around again..."

Bor lor lowered his eyes, "Okay. I just wanted to check on you, though. You weren't in school."

Elladan was about to say something again, but was silenced by Legolas' hand on his arm.

"Thanks for your concern, Boromir. But I'd rather be left alone now."

The red-head nodded, leaving before Elrohir had a chance to shut the door on him. There was an uncomfortable silence and Elrohir shifted.

"How 'bout I go get some movies? It won't take long."

Elladan smiled and nodded, Elrohir taking his time in getting ready to go. Once the younger of the twins had left, Elladan sighed.

"Are you alright?"

"You can't keep trying to protect me," Legolas said quietly. "I can take care of myself."

The blonde had moved to the couch while Elrohir was getting ready and now Elladan made his way there.

"I know."

Legolas faced him, "No you don't! I really can take care of myself, El'. I just..."

Elladan took the break in Legolas' speaking to silence him completely; by placing his lips over those of the blonde's in a chaste kiss. When he moved back, Legolas was watching him with owlish eyes.

"I...Legolas.." Elladan just stood up. Leaving the stunned Legolas and nearly running to his room.

***********************************************************************


It was a few seconds later that Legolas had come out of his shocked stupour. Hesitantly, the blonde touched his lips, to startled to think clearly. He started when he heard the door open and looked over to see Elrohir coming in with a bag.

"Hey, I got a few things...Are you okay? Legolas?"

Legolas nodded slowly, still trying to think, to focus. Elrohir moved in front of him now.

"Legolas? What happened?"

"...Elladan..he just...I didn't...I mean.."

Elrohir frowned and stood. "Stay here."

Legolas caught his friend by the arms and shook his head. "No, please? Don't do anything."

"Legolas, what happened?"

Legolas hesitated, "...He kissed me."

Elrohir pulled away from Legolas' grasp and went to Elladan's room, his steps heavy as he practically stormed there. He didn't bother to knock as he opened the door.

***********************************************************************
Boromir looked like he was about to hit his head, repeatedly, against the table. Aragorn sipped his drink as he watched.

"So? What happened?"

"I don't know. I told him, I don't think he believed me."

"Why does it matter?" Aragorn said absently moving his straw around. "I mean, if he doesn't want to talk to you, then why torture yourself?"

Boromir looked at his friend, "Well excuse me for caring."

"You're excused."

"Why am I friends with you?"

A shadow fell onto the table and both looked up to greet Eomer and Haldir. Both moved to let the two newcomers sit in the booth.

"What's going on?" Haldir asked.

Aragorn pushed the empty cup away, "Boromir's pissy because a guy named Legolas won't listen to him."

"It's more than that," Boromir started.

"Legolas?" Haldir said. "I heard the twins talk about a friend with that name."

Boromir nodded, "It's him."

ll, ll, he'll be going to our school in a week or so, I think. That's what Elladan said when I talked to him earlier," Eomer said. "He was really upset about something though. Didn't specify."

Boromir frowned, "Legolas is over there now."

"You're really stuck on him, aren't you?" Haldir observed. "What's so special about him?"

"I don't know..." Boromir said. "I just...I really like him, but I just don't know why."

Eomer frowned, "Don't worry over him. We can check him out for you when school starts up again."

Boromir smiled his thanks and Aragorn rubbed his hands together. "Who's up for the arcade?"

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Elrohir's anger ebbed slighly when he saw the state Elladan was in. The elder twin was sitting on his bed, his back resting against the headboard and the small cell phone lying next to him. Of course, 'ebbed' does not mean gone.

"What the hell happened?" Elrohir demanded, trying to keep his voice low enough so Legolas didn't hear them. The thought of the blonde brought a fresh wave of anger. "He said you kissed him."

Elladan's eyes stayed focused on the cover of his bed. "I did...Oh, God, I did..."

"Whe'se's scared-"

"I know!" Elladan snapped. "I know...He's going to hate me...I can't face him."

Elrohir sighed and sat at the edge of the bed. "You're going to have to. He's scared and confused."

"El', I can't...Not now..."

The younger of the twins stood, "Fine. I'm going to go try to get him relaxed again. If you want to jus, us, feel free too, but Legolas is going to need to hear from you on this matter."

With that, Elrohir left, closing the door behind him.

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Legolas looked up from the couch as Elrohir returned. The dark-haired teen sat next to him.

"Are you alright?"

Legolas nodded.

Elrohir sighed, "I don't know what was going through his mind, Legolas. But until he's ready to ~grace~ us with his presence, do you want to watch something? Maybe eat?"

Another small nod and Elrohir cursed Elladan under his breath as he went to put in one of the movies he had rented. There was an awkward silence as the film started until Elrohir shifted to face Legolas.

"How do you feel about Elladan?"

Legolas looked down at his hands, which were fidgeting with the bottom of his shirt. "I...don't know."

Elrohir sighed, "Legolas... I'm going to hate saying it; but he does care about you...Like ~that~."

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