Because I Love You eight

Not that long later, Papa came back to his bedroom door. Unlocking the door with a huge creepy smile on his face. Rhys wished that he would be allowed to eat in his room. To eat by himself for once in his stay. And that Papa wasn't so observant as he stared at his face. Looking so worried about why his eyes were red, as it was very clear that he had been crying for a while. But, he didn't push the issue as he took Rhys's hand. Smiling ear to ear as he asked,"You ready to eat, baby?"

"Yes, Papa.",Rhys answered. Even if it wasn't going to be enough food to feed a full grown man. It was still better than going hungry. Or having someone yell at him over it. Sure, Papa said that he wouldn't be doing that anymore. But Rhys didn't feel entirely trusting of him. For tons of reasons. Mostly thanks to the fact that he was completely at his mercy. Along with the fact that he was terrified of him going back on his word.

Also it was a really bad idea to push his luck at all. Especially after he went out of his way to get McDonald's. Along with a chocolate cake. It would be a real shame to piss him off and not get any of it. Probably never getting a chance to have either of them. Rhys knew it would also be unwise to make him made to waste gas over it.

Besides it was nice to get some junk food for once. And not worry about the whole situation for once. Even if it was just for a little while. Have something that wasn't healthy or bland for once, too. But he hated that it wasn't enough food for...he needed to stop dwelling on that. Rhys sat at his spot in the dining room. Getting more food was probably never going to happen. Not anytime soon. So there was really no sense in wishing that he could get it.

It just wasn't productive.

Rhys should consider himself that he was lucky to eat at all. Most folks who kidnapped others didn't feed them. Or fed them the bare minimum. Maybe not even that. And he just got more than that thanks to his captor's guilt. Either because of hurting him in the beginning. Maybe it was thanks to all of his nightmares in the past few days. Coupled with the lip biting and staring into space. Definitely the way that his lip would bleed when that happened.

Maybe he was suddenly realizing just how cared Rhys was of him. How he made him terrified of his presence. Along with how well he wasn't really hiding it. Part of him wondered if Papa really knew how he felt or not. Just how much of his emotions showed on his face. Despite the fact that he tried to hide his feelings.

Something in him told him that he might have shown more than intended. Way more than he really intended on. That was something to deal with later. Way later. Right now he just had to focus on eating his food. So that Papa wouldn't get worried about his mental state. Ask him questions that he didn't really feel like answering right now. Opening his Happy Meal with a small smile on his face. And he stated,"Thank you, Papa."

"You're very welcome, Bubba.",Papa chirped. This was getting to be a bit annoying. But, Rhys decided to put up with it. Eating his nuggets with a smile. Papa had ordered him a good amount of food. Not just chicken nuggets but some apple slices, too. As well as some fries. Which he didn't realize you could order both. There was a toy inside it as well.

Some Mario thing that he wasn't entirely excited about. But, did his best to keep his face from showing that. Since he really didn't want to hurt his feelings. Or test his luck.

As he had done a few hour ago with the boos.

Though he suspected that Papa saw it differently. Probably as him pushing boundaries or something stupid as that. He didn't really know or care to. All he cared about was getting a slice of that chocolate cake. And enjoying the junk food that he finally got. Since Rhys didn't know if or when he could eat like this again. As he ate, Papa warned,"Slow down, baby. We don't need you choking on that."

"Yes, Papa. We wouldn't.",Rhys agreed. Eating his food a little bit slow now. Even if he really, really, really didn't want to. Some part of him worried that Papa would take it from him. Tell him that he's had enough. Then never let him have it again. Or have a slice of the chocolate cake. And Rhys really didn't want that. He didn't want that at all. So, he just did as Papa told him to.

Eating a little slower than he really wanted to. Wishing that he could have Papa's Big Mac. It wasn't his fave thing from McDonald's. But, he found himself really craving a Big Mac. Anything that was somewhat considered 'Grown Up' food. Maybe get some adult portions, too. He really missed having some adult portions. Also missed being able to eat when he wanted and what he wanted.

Not having to eat all the toddler food Papa insisted on. Some of him wanted to know why he insisted upon eating this way. Really wanted to get to the bottom of it. As it really was just getting on his nerves. Find out just why the older man insisted on small portions of bland food. So, he gathered up a good portion of his courage. Then Rhys asked,"Hey, Papa? Can I ask you something?"

"Sure you can, Sweetheart.",Papa answered. Giving him a sweet smile as he did so. It sort of made him a little uncomfortable. And almost made him lose his nerve to ask the question. In fact, it was making him feel a little stupid if he was being honest. But, Still Rhys just had to know all about this. Why he was doing this. And just why he couldn't eat foods that he really liked. Rhys asked,"Why do we eat plain food for?"

"Like why are there no spices or anything like that?",he questioned. Feeling even more foolish for asking in the first place. Like maybe Papa didn't like that in his food. Or maybe he wasn't just that confident of a cook or something. Or something to that effect. It was probably for normal reasons and he was just overreacting. Rhys chewed his bottom lip as Papa stared at him for a moment. A very long one that made him feel even more like an idiot. Then Papa answered,"I do put spices in it, babyh. Just lightly so it doesn't overwhelm your taste buds."

"Can't have you spitting out your dinner now can I?",Papa teased. Now that was something that he wasn't expecting from him. And really hated to hear that as well. But he guessed it would be somewhat reasonable. If he were an actual toddler that Papa was raising. Which he wasn't. Rhys was a full grown man for crying out loud!

'A full grown man who wears whatever his captor wants. Goes to bed when he tells him to. And plays with kid's toys.',his mind countered. Maing him feel more annoyed with himself as he finished his nuggets. Wishing that he had more than just six of them. And kept this feeling to himself as he picked up his fries. Doing his best to keep his face calm as he ate.

Not wanting to anger or alarm Papa. As Rhys didn't want to make him break his promise. Or press his luck out of fear of being hurt once again. Calmly, he nibbled on fries. Realizing that he really missed the way that they tasted. Missed how other foods that weren't so bland, too.

It was kind of annoying that he wouldn't have this again. For probably weeks or months.

If even that. Rhys hated that he might not get to eat fast food when he desired. Or go to sleep when he felt like it. It was sort of on his nerves. Really, really on his nerves. Again, he didn't dare complain about it. Instead, he just finished eating his fries. Then moved onto the apple slices. Which, weren't the greatest but they were better then nothing. Soon as he finished that, he drank his small bottle of chilled milk.

Plain milk and not chocolate.

He really wished that he could have some chocolate milk. Or some apple juice. Anything that wasn't just this boring plain milk. Rhys wished that he had a much sweeter drink.

But felt it was much better than having nothing at all. And he still had the cake to look forward to. A, hopefully, big slice of chocolate cake. One that would make up for the 'no sweets' thing. Once he finished, he waited for Papa to hurry up and finish. Watching him intensely as Papa ate his own dinner. And wanting him to be done so much faster. Nearly considering tossing Papa's fries to the floor to speed things up. Doing his best to resist the urge as he sat there. Knowing that Papa would be so very upset if he did that. Possibly go back on his word to not hurt him even.

So, he just impatiently sat there as he watched Papa eat. Wishing that he could just have a taste. Just one little taste of that Big Mac. Promising himself that when he finally escaped, he would get at least five of them. Maybe six. Rhys toyed with his stupid Happy Meal toy. It wasn't his favorite thing. But, he had to admit it was sort of nice. The toy and just mindlessly playing with something. Not having to worry about much as he sat there. A few seconds later, Papa was picking up their garbage. Bagging them together to make it easier to throw away. Papa asked,"Do you think you're ready to have your cake now?"

"Yes, Papa. I definitely am!",Rhys answered. He was more than ready. It was something he was really looking forward to. As pathetic as that was. A stupid chocolate cake that Papa bought. Yet, he couldn't stop himself from feelign so stupidly giddy about it.

A stupid piece of decedant chocolate cake!

One that he hoped would be a huge slice. It was all that Rhys desired. Well in that moment at the very least. Rhys patiently waited for him to get him a piece.

At least he was trying to. It was hard to resist the sudden urge to get up. Get up and run towards the kitchen. But, didn't. Rhys did his damndest to sit at the dining room table. Eagerly watching the doorway for the older man.

A second later, Papa had come back with two big plates in his hands. His portion was an adult portion for once. Either Papa was giving into his unspoken demands for more. Or he was feeling a bit guilty about something. And he wasn't sure on what it would be. Maybe it wasn't entirely an apology. That it was something else. What that thing was, Rhys wasn't entirely sure of.

All that he cared about was getting that piece of cake. Finally being able to eat something like that. Rhys chewed his bottom lip as he set it in front of him. Picking up the fork, Rhys stated,"Thank you, Papa."

"You're welcome, Baby. I hope this enough for you.",Papa chuckled. There was this air of mocking to his tone. Like he was expecting something to happen. And he really didn't give a damn about that. Not in the slightest bit.

All he cared about was getting to eat it. And Rhys dug into the slice like he hadn't eaten a few minutes ago. A huge grin on his face as he began to devour his piece. Finally getting exactly what he felt he wanted. A whole treat fit for a grown up. As he ate, the older man sat down with his slice and watched him. That annoying know-it-all smirk on his face as he watched Rhys eating.

Though he wasn't entirely sure why. Just why was Papa watching him so intently for? There was something off about this. And he wasn't sure about why. Rhys just kept eating his slice of cake. Or at least trying to eat it. Realizing it tasted way to sweet to him.

But, he pushed through the taste. Figuring this was just from not having cake in a while.

Halfway through the slice, he started feeling a little sick. Like it was going to be difficult for him to properly finish. Which he didn't like the notion of. Nor did Rhys want to give Papa the satisfaction of him not being able to. Trying his damndest to keep eating the piece.

Feeling even more sick as he did so. Staring down at the plate the entire time he ate it. There was so much still on the plate. The idea of eating it made his stomach hurt a bit. Still, he pressed on eating it. Feeling worse and worse as he choked down the treat.

Once he finished, Rhys nearly immediately regretted it. And at the same time, he somewhat didn't. He picked up a napkin and wiped his mouth. Papa gave a slow mocking clap once he finished. Or he believed it was a slow mocking clap. Rhys didn't look up at him as he felt his face burn from humiliation. The older man picked up his own fork, he stated,"Well, bravo. You did a really good job, baby."

"Next time, you're going to get a smaller slice.",Papa added. Probably able to tell that Rhys had been struggling. He felt like an idiot for insisting in the first place. But shoved those feelings down like he had been everything else. Along with the urge to punch the older man in the nose. And scream at him at the top of his lungs.

Telling him off for everything he had done to him.

But, Rhys resisted as he set his napkin down on his plate. Settling his hands on his aching stomach. Hoping that vomiting wouldn't be in his future. As that probably would make Papa even more insufferable. Probably make him say something like 'I told you so' or 'your eyes were bigger than your tummy'. Another thing that would really piss him off.

When Papa finished his slice, he cleared the table. Quickly washing the dishes while Rhys sat at the table. Trying to ignore the sickness that he was feeling. It was hard but, he was managing. Not that long later, Papa took his hand and walked him upstairs. Quickly taking him into the bathroom to take his nightly bath. Something that helped him feel a little more relaxed than normal. His eyelids nearly drooping shut as  Papa dressed him in some fuzzy blue pajamas. He quickly brushed his teeth and Papa did as well. A few minutes later, they were finally walking into his bedroom.

Allowing himself to be lead over to his bed by Papa. The minute that Rhys laid down, he was gently tucked in. His stomach was rubbed in slow steady circles. Which were strangely easing the aches in that he had in his stomach. They were actually making him a little more drowsy. In fact, it they were making Rhys so drowsy that he nearly fell asleep that instant. Papa's voice singing that lullaby he had been humming for a while now. Vaguely feeling Papa kiss him on the cheek.

A little while later, Rhys opened his eyes in the dream. Finding himself in his old apartment. Laying on the small bed that he had. Sitting up he couldn't stop himself from smiling ear to ear. Right until he spotted something in the corner of the room. Turning to get a better look at it, his stomach dropped.

The object was...a teddy bear.

One that he had never owned in his whole life. He knew that. Pushing off the covers as he got out of bed. Grabbing the teddy bear with wide eyes. Frowning deeply as he wondered why it was there. He snapped,"Fuck. Why the Hell are you here? I don't own baby toys!"

"Bubba! No cussing in the house, remember?",An uncomfortably familiar voice called out. A chill ran down his spine as he turned to the doorway. Standing there was...was Papa. Holding a mixing bowl of something in his hands. Rhys threw the teddy bear down on the floor as hard as he could. With as much anger as he could muster. Sneering, Rhys shouted,"GET OUT!"

"I DON'T WANT YOU HERE! GET OUT! GET OUT!",Rhys continued. Pointing in the direction of his front door. Wanting the older man to get out of his apartment. To never come back. It was his dream and he couldn't allow Papa there. He just wanted to be alone in his own apartment. Not to be reminded that he wasn't actually home and held hostage.

"Now, that's not how we treat or talk to others.",Papa scolded. It wasn't like he gave a damn about what Papa thought. Rhys just wanted him gone. Gone and far away from him. Papa demanded,"You apologize for your rude language and then we can eat dinner."

"No, fuck no!",Rhys snapped. There was no way in Hell he was going to do that. He wouldn't apologize to the older man. Not in his dreams where he truly couldn't harm him. And Rhys could make him leave it if he wanted. He growled,"Get the Hell out of my apartment and don't ever come back!"

"I hate you! I hate you so fucking much!",he spat. Absolutely hating Papa and wanting him to feel all of his anger. Even if it was just a dream version of him. It didn't matter to Rhys. All that mattered was getting it out.

At first, Papa didn't do anything about what he said. Nor did he look angry about it. In fact, he seemed to look so very disappointed. Quietly, Papa sighed as he set the bowl on the ground. Walking into the room, Papa asked,"Baby. Did you have a bad nap?"

"Is that why you're so upset with me?",he continued. Voice in the tone that normal folks used on fussy toddlers. It only pissed him off even more. Glaring at Papa, Rhys answered,"You kidnapped me, beat me, and threatened to fucking starve me for who knows how long."

"You tell me why I'm so upset.",Rhys challenged. How wasn't it obvious to the older man? Of all the things he did to him? Just how wasn't it clear as day? Papa sighed as he gently touched Rhys's shoulder. In a gentle tone, Papa asked,"Don't you want to pretend that your dream is different?"

"That we're here in your apartment and that I care for you like a good Papa?",Papa questioned. Keeping his grip gentle as he did so. A sweet but sad smile on his lips. As if he felt terrible he couldn't convince the younger man. He pleaded,"Please? That way we could both be happy?"

"A loving family that we both deserve.",Papa added using his other hand to touch his face. And Rhys found himself liking the idea. Where in his dreams, he could feel safe. Feel way more in control then normal. Control how he was 'loved' on. There was something so very tempting about it. And Rhys nearly leaned into Papa's touch. Smiling slightly as he reached up to grab Papa's wrist.

But, he couldn't allow himself this. It wasn't right and he knew it. Enjoying a dream of his captor doting on him. Treating him with more love and care then in the waking world. Wouldn't get upset with him as easily either. It was so very tempting to him.

So very tempting.

Yet, he knew better than to allow that. No matter how much he wanted Papa's love. Rhys new it would just make him complacent. Maybe even disappoint him when Papa doesn't live up to his dreams. Live up to the way he wanted him to. And as much as he wanted this, he shook his head at him. In a soft voice, Rhys stated,"No, Papa. I can't."

"We both know that, I very much now that.",he added. As this wasn't the real Papa. Just what his mind cooked up. What he felt that he needed and deserved. Well, some strange piece of him did. The rest of him wanted to get free.

Then again, who wouldn't?

Rhys sighed as he walked past the dream version of Papa. To see what his apartment would look like. If it were anything like the house he was in. Whether it even looked like his place anymore. And to his complete lack of surprise, it didn't.

Sort of. 

His furniture was still where he had placed it. Just a lot nicer looking. There were throw pillows and a big comfy throw blanket on it. Along with a nice rug in the middle of the living room. The dream version of Papa put up cute lamps, too. It just made him feel weird. And when he looked at the walls, he felt even more uncomfortable. There were pictures of him and Papa together. Depicting a happy relationship between them. A consensual one. Both of them were grinning together while hugging each other. Well, a first glance they seemed to be.

The man in the picture looked very much like him. Just wasn't him.

They had so many similarities except for their eyes. The lookalike had bright green eyes. This had to be that guy that Papa spoke about once. Who was that person again? Oh yeah, Orson. Who even was that? This person that his Papa seemingly loved so much.

Something in him felt so uncomfortably jealous. Despite not even really wanting Papa, he felt it. Rhys knew he knew the reason why. It was love he wasn't getting. Maybe. A part of him realized it probably was feeling like a stand in. A substitute for what Papa really loved. And that he didn't actually love him for himself. Something that really stung.

Tears rolled down his cheeks as he sat on his couch. Resting his chin in his hands. The dream version of Papa walked into the living room. That stupid bowl of whatever it was in his hands. Walking over to the couch, Papa asked,"Are you sure that you don't want to try it out?"

"This could be your only way of being happy.",Papa insisted. That made him feel even worse. And Rhys shook his head as he wiped his tears with the backs of his fists. With a huge sigh, Rhys answered,"No, it'll only hurt me in the long run."

"I really can't do this to myself.",Rhys added. With that, he gave the dream version of his Papa a gentle smile. Then he forced himself to wake up. Finding himself laying on top of his Papa's chest. The older man appeared to be deeply asleep. Hands were gently holding him to his chest.

No handcuffs on his wrists. And there was nothing on his ankle.

There was really nothing keeping him from trying to flee. If he wanted to, he could push Papa's hands off. Run over to the door and unlock it. Fleeing down to Papa's truck. Using it to finally go home. Go home and pack everything that he owned. Then quit his job and flee the whole damned state. Change himself entirely before he could flee.

That's what he wanted to do. The urge was so very strong. Almost overwhelming in its intensity. Yet, he couldn't find it in himself to do so. To push his Papa's hands off of himself. And make a mad dash for the bedroom door. Just try to go home and flee for his life.

Instead, he found himself too bone tired to begin to. For once he was so warm and oh so cozy, too. Why would he want to leave his Papa? That's what his complacent side had asked of him. Why leave when he was so loved? When he had someone to finally dote on him?

The reason was obvious. He had thought it a thousand times. No matter how good things were. This place wasn't safe and neither was Papa. Yet, the needy part of him adored this. Adored being doted on so much. Just wanted to keep being loved on. Until who even knew when?

There had to be an end...shouldn't there?

Rhys didn't know. Only hoping it wouldn't end in Papa killing him. Or being bored with him. Though the idea of Papa being bored with him...that scared him worse. Scared him enough to make him press his cheek tighter. Hands cling to Papa's chest more. A whimper escaped him before he could hold it back. Feeling even more like an idiot for allowing it. So very weak as well.

Papa didn't stir in his sleep. Well, not enough for him to worry all that much. All he did was make gentle shushing noises and rubbed his back. Moving his hands in slow little circles as he did so. To help him relax on his chest.

It was simple. So very simple and yet it was still so calming. Calming enough that it put him back to sleep. And he allowed it to happen. Falling back into a relaxing sleep he didn't remember. Cheek pressed into Papa's chest. Listening to the sound of the other man's heart. Along with the steady sound of his breathing.

Despite what Rhys believed, Papa wasn't really asleep.

He smiled as he stared down at his sleeping boy. Loving the way that he relaxed into him. Sleeping so soundly and without a care in the world. It had been a long time since he had done this. In fact, he couldn't remember the last time that he had done this. All he knew is that it had been a really long time. And he had really missed being able to do this. Cuddling someone so very sweet.

But it was his own fault. 

He couldn't believe that he had given Rhys so much damage. Just why poor Rhys kept staring into space so much. Biting his bottom lip until it bled so very badly. Then his running away from home not that long ago. Emmett also knew that telling him he would have starved him was stupid. That probably was the biggest threat keeping him from feeling comfortable. It was probably why he was acting out the way he had been.

Testing to see if he would keep his word or not. As well as testing boundaries.

Which Emmett was completely prepared for. Testing boundaries. Pushing him to his utmost limits. And watching him for what reaction it would give him. What the consequences of his actions would be. Emmett had some punishments in mind. Non-violent and gentle. Putting him in time out would be alright. Along with him getting to write some lines. Write why what he did was wrong.

Maybe see if that would help him realize he was wrong.

Possibly see Emmett's point of view for once. Something that he really had longed for. It was hard not wanting him to just give in. Be the sweet boy he knew he was. Allow Emmett to finally dote on him. Love him in ways no one else had. In probably a very long time. Years probably. Rhys's family didn't even truly love the poor boy. None of them had even come looking for him at all. The police were only called by his co-workers.

One that were somewhat caring about him.

Though Emmett was willing to wager that they didn't want his shifts. Or his workload. Like the lazy worthless bastard that they were.

None of them were worthy of Rhys's attention. Nor were they worthy of his time. And they didn't deserve a tear from him. Not one hint of stress, either. Rhys deserved so much better than that. And now he was going to give him it.

Give him all that and then some. Hugs, kisses, and cuddles. He knew that on some level, Rhys craved all of this. Craved the attention, the rules, and the games. Not being the slightest bit responsible for anything grown up. Hopefully, he wouldn't insist on more grown up portions.

Otherwise he might actually throw up if he ate too much.

And Emmett didn't want to deal with that clean up. Or the amount of sobbing that Rhys would do. Along with how angry he was going to be with himself. Throwing the world's worst tantrum. Possibly refuse to eat anything that he would make.

Which would be a bigger issue of its own. And he knew he couldn't force Rhys to eat anything. No, that would cause so many problems for them. Ruin any progress or trust that his baby had. Sending them right back to square one. Where he wouldn't be able to trust Emmett for a while.

Something that he wasn't entirely sure if he could rebuild. At least not in a reasonable amount of time.

Thankfully, Emmett wouldn't have to worry about it. As he was going to be firm on that. Make absolutely sure that he obeyed the rules. Yet, still be gentle about it. Being cruel or mocking the poor boy wouldn't be the wisest decision. And he knew that. Knew it wasn't going to be wise in this moment, either.

As Emmett had been a little too smug. Much too smug about the slice of cake. Watching him with that shit eating grin. He knew it had been a huge mistake. Right from the defeated look in Rhys's eyes. Yet, he somehow found it in himself to power through that. Eat the deliberately too big cake slice. Despite the few times that he had gagged during. Looking like he would be sick.

It was partly hilarious to him. And a little commendable as well. That despite all of his pain, Rhys would eat his cake. Stubbornly eating what he felt that he wanted and deserved. Mostly feeling, in Emmett's mind it was, he deserved a grown up treat. Such a cute stubborn little thing he is.

Even if he turned out to be very wrong.

This was still adorable to watch his stubborn babe. A sweet hot headed little boy. And that was something that had drawn him in in the first place. How he was insistent on doing things a certain way. Even if it wasn't all together good for him. Another thing that they could work on together. Help him understand that it wouldn't help him forever. And that Rhys needed to admit to being wrong. Or admitting to needing help. While he would work on not acting like a know-it-all. As it could somewhat harm his relationship with Rhys.

To what degree? He wasn't entirely sure of.

All he knew is that it wouldn't help either of them. And they had just made such good progress. Such good, good progress in such a little amount of time. Despite the set back that they had just encountered. With him running away from home the way that he had done. Emmett hated the way his poor arms and feet looked after.

Just how much paint it clearly had caused him. Was still causing him in that moment. Rhys didn't seem able enough to hide his pain. Not in ways that he really wanted to. Emmett wouldn't tell him about this. Knowing it would probably harm him as well. Possibly make him feel so very humiliated. Another thing that would set them way, way back

And, of course, Emmett couldn't have that.

After all, look how far they had gotten in a few days. Rhys was finally asleep in his arms. Not needing any handcuffs or any other form of being bound. Just resting heavily on his chest with a smile on his little face. Nuzzling his cheek against Emmett's chest as well. It was the cutest thing in the world. And it was something that he knew he wouldn't have done on day one.

No, not without a huge tantrum he wouldn't.

And Emmett wouldn't have felt comfortable enough to do this without restraints. Something he hadn't had been able to do with the last boy. Despite how 'behaved' he had been as well. It was sort of making him a bit uncomfortable. A few paranoid thoughts were cropping up in mind as he stared at Rhys. Knowing that if he were awake and knew what Emmett knew, he'd be tempted to run.

Emmett had left the door to his bedroom unlocked.

This was more than a little bit worrying for him. Just how tempted his baby would be if he knew. Though it would make for a good test, too. See if his little boy would try to make a run for it or not. Though he would do his best to not hurt him to discipline him.

Though that was another thing to be worried about later.

Way later if he were lucky. So very, very lucky. As Emmett hoped that Rhys wouldn't dare do another escape attempt down the line. Be so happy that he wouldn't even entertain the thought, ever. Which wouldn't be too hard if Emmett kept up the nice act. And the fun games that he knew that Rhys liked.

But, a small part of himself was still a little worried.

He squashed those thoughts as he felt his little boy was fine. That his love was finally reaching Rhys. Finally making him understand that he adored him. And that he didn't have to leave his Papa, ever. It was everything that someone as love starved as Rhys deserved. Even if he didn't fully realize it. Maybe someday the younger man would thank him for it. Tell him that he loved him for real.

It was something that Emmett really hoped for.

So far, Emmett felt that he wasn't ready to really say it yet. Not just to him but to himself. But it would happen sooner or later. All he had to do was keep being kind to him. Keep playing games and all that Jazz. It would work. It just had to work on Rhys.

Like it had worked on Orson years ago. When he was...Emmett couldn't think of that man. Not after so many years of not thinking about him. It stung to realize he hadn't done that. Had actively tried to ignore him as well. But, lately, he found it harder to not think of Oron. As he had recently come to realize Rhys looked a little...well a lot like Orson. Like he were a clone or something.

There was a part of him that was fine with that. And it strangely made him miss Orson less. Which somewhat made him sad but, he ignored those feelings. After all, he could easily fix that by making Rhys into his beloved Orson. It wouldn't be all that hard for him. After all, they were pretty similar and not just in looks. Yet, Emmett found himself not liking that idea in the slightest bit. Rhys was a pretty sweet boy and so easy to love.

His personality was just as sweet as Orson's had been. Though Rhys was a little more independent then Orson had been. Who was a little too clingy and submissive at best. And a complete doormat at his worst. While Rhys was too stubborn and strong willed to allow him anything. It felt like a wonderful challenge that he couldn't resist.

Something that was both infuriating and interesting. Mostly it was infuriating. As it tested the limit's of his patience. And it was making things so difficult for the both of them. Making their relationship not as close as it could have been. Some part of it was Rhys's fault. Being so God damned stubborn and trying to escape...no. Emmett couldn't entirely blame him for that, either. After all, he had spanked him way too hard with a wooden paddle. Didn't even bother trying to make him feel better afterward. Or even apologize properly for doing that. It was too much violence and he hadn't even gotten close to getting outside. After all, Emmett had the key for the front door in his back pocket.

And without those little tools, Rhys wouldn't have escaped. Emmett still didn't know what Rhys had used on the door. Or even how he got them in the first place. But, figured he would tell him sooner or later. All Emmett had to do is give him a little time. Keep being as calm as humanly possible. Not going back on the promise that he had made.

There would be no getting that trust back if he did. After all, Rhys nearly pulled into his shell after the spanking. Who knew what he would do if he went back on his promise? Nothing good and they both knew this. Rhys knew it in some part of his mind. And Emmett couldn't just acknowledge it.

Not anymore.

It wasn't going to serve him in the moment. Something he did best to not think on while he looked down at the younger man. Instead he just decided to play with Rhys's hair. Loving just how soft it was between his fingertips. A tiny smile came to his face as he watched him. Rhys looked so very sweet in his sleep. More then...well, he had looked peaceful yesterday. When they were cuddling together. That sweet smile that he tried to hide. Just how at ease he was in Emmett's grip. Head resting against his chest in that adorable way he had done.

Soon they were going to be able to do this when he was awake. Without the restraints on him, either. Rhys would probably be in love with him. Maybe even initiate a few of the cuddles in the future. Something that Emmett couldn't help but grin at the idea of. Emmett grinned even wider as he kept playing with Rhys's hair. Petting his back with his free hand once more. Trying to make sure that he stayed asleep in his grasp. A bit later, Emmett found himself yawning as he shut his eyes. Finding himself more tired then he had in a little while. Deciding to just rest his eyes as he held Rhys. That he would be awake before his little boy is.

Sometime later, Rhys woke up to find himself still with Papa. Cheek pressing against his chest so tightly. Papa was already awake. Playing with his hair so gently in ways that no one else did. Well, no one since his Mom. Who stopped sometime when he was thirteen or fourteen years old. And he never found out the reason why she did that. Looking up, he saw the sweet smile on his Papa's face. When he finally noticed that Rhys was awake, it grew a little more. In a soft voice, Papa said,"Good morning, baby."

"Did you have a good sleep?",he asked. From what he remembered, he had. The dreams he had weren't terrible. Sure, Rhys didn't like that Papa was in his apartment. He didn't like them in the slightest bit. But he had to admit that it wasn't the worst dream ever. Just a very uncomfortable one he didn't like. Nodding his head, Rhys answered,"Yes, Papa. I slept very well."

"Getting to cuddle you during it made it so much easier.",Rhys admitted. It was the truth. Getting to cuddle Papah ad really helped. In a really strange way that he couldn't entirely explain. Or rather he didn't want to. Knowing full well what the reason was. That he was starting to adore being with Papa.

Or rather, he was starting to become so accustomed to what was going on.

That's what he kept telling himself as they got out of bed. Holding Papa's hand as they started walking out of his bedroom. Feeling a little odd that they just walked through the bedroom door. And for a second, he didn't know why it was odd. Then once they got to the bathroom, he realized exactly what had happened. Papa hadn't locked his bedroom door for once. That they had slept together in his bedroom without him being restrained, too. A part of him felt so very angry with himself for not getting out of the bed. Not pushing Papa's hands off of him to do that.

Rhys had been so accustomed to the idea that Papa locked the door, he didn't even bother to check. It made his stomach drop as he watched Papa start the bath. Though he highly doubted that he would have been able to leave. As something in him had felt guilty about the idea of leaving Papa like that.

Even though he knew that he shouldn't, he did.

It was another thing that he felt he would need to deal with. Rhys kept a calm look on his face as Papa undressed him. Then undressed himself. Once the tub was finished filling up, they got in. Allowing Papa to gently scrub his body with the wash cloth. Laughing a little when the older man tickled him slightly. A tiny smile came to his face during this. Then the older man started washing his hair. Being gentle as humanly possible with it. This was something that he also found himself being accustomed to. It still sort of felt weird but, he liked it. This was a luxury that he really found himself liking. Papa was so gentle and...well, thank goodness he wasn't tired. Otherwise he probably would have fallen asleep right then and there.

"Goodness your hair is beautiful, baby.",Papa complimented after washing the conditioner out. Gently running his fingers through Rhys's hair. Being careful to not snag them on tangles. Gently rubbing it in his fingers, he added,"So long, too. We should braid it. I think you'd look so cute with one."

"Don't you think?",Papa asked. Rhys nodded his head in agreement. This was something he wanted to do with his hair for a while now. He wanted to do a lot of things with his hair. And that's one of the reasons that he grew it out. Despite folks trying to tell him to get a haircut. That he wouldn't be considered a real man if he didn't. But, he didn't want to give up his hair. As he felt it made him look more masculine. That it suited him so well. Never mind how much people treated him over it.

Once the bath was over, they went to Papa's bedroom. Rhys was dried off and set on the bed. Then he hurried out of his own bedroom to get something. For a moment, Rhys thought of running out of the bedroom. Down the hall and the stairs then through the front door. But, squashed them as he didn't want to run out naked. He didn't want anyone to see him in that state. Hell, he didn't even like Papa seeing him in this state. Though there was nothing he could really do about that. As Papa would probably wouldn't allow him to do much about it. When he came back with some clothes, he started dressing him. Ignoring Rhys's request to dress himself for once. Not even acknowledging that he was saying anything as he dressed him. 

For a few minutes at least, then he informed,"Oh, Baby. We've done this so many times already."

"Just settle down and this will go so much smoother.",Papa reminded. His tone wasn't entirely unkind. There was still this air of patronizing that Rhys didn't like. In the slightest bit. But, Rhys did his best to ignore those feelings. After all, there was really no point in getting upset. Or trying to fight back.

It was something that he felt like it had been done a million times. It probably had been way less than that. But, whatever. This was just something he was going to put up with. There was really no point in fighting or being upset.

Especially when it could result in him being yelled at.

After Rhys was dressed, Papa hurriedly dressed himself. Making himself matching like the other day. It felt weird to be dressed alike. But, paid no mind as Papa sat behind him. Starting to braid his hair like no one else ever did for him. Not even his Mom when he hadn't transitioned. It was kind of nice, in a strange way. Though he wasn't entirely sure why he had felt this way. Instead of letting himself linger on this, he just allowed Papa to finish the braid with a hairband. Once he was done, Papa got off the bed with him. Taking his hand as they headed downstairs to the dining room. Papa asked,"How do you feel about having some pancakes and eggs?"

"Can we have bacon, too?",Rhys asked. It was something that he had craved for a little while. And hoped that Papa would allow him this. As it wasn't an entirely unhealthy food, it wasn't a healthy food either. But it was also a very tasty food that he hoped Papa would want, too. Papa answered,"Of course, baby."

"And after breakfast, we can watch some movies together.",Papa continued. He wasn't entirely sure what Papa would want to watch. It would be better than just being forced to stay in his room alone. Which he felt Papa would do if he felt angry enough at him.

Rhys sat down at his spot at the dining room table. Toying with his nails as he waited for Papa to make breakfast. Unsure of what else he was supposed to do. Aside from sitting there and thinking about everything that went on. Would they still have cake tonight? Cake for a snack? Part of him wondered if Papa would give their cake away or not. He really hoped that they wouldn't do that. It clearly wasn't going to get eaten for every meal, he still wanted some for dessert.

Like maybe tonight or tomorrow.

Then something occurred to him as he sat in his seat. Being so fucking complacent with someone like Papa. Though he reminded himself the reason why. It's to keep himself safe from the man who could possibly kill him with little thought. And he didn't want to press his luck as he sat there. Rhys chewed his bottom lip as he sat there. Reminding himself that he can't rebel or run off. What could happen if he even attempted. So, he did his best to ignore those thoughts. Stop himself from chewing his bottom lip as Papa came back with their food. His pancakes, eggs, and bacon were all cut up into bits. A second later, they started eating their food in total silence. Smiles on both of their faces as they ate.