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"Dinners ready," Ponyboy calls out to his husband and Zachory. "Get to the table!"

He hums softly as he hears slow footsteps as well as small, quick ones. A smile makes its way onto his lips as he carries the pot out to the table carefully.

"Johnnycake, make sure he doesn't touch the pot," Ponyboy says. "I don't want him to get burned."

"You got it, babe," Johnny says, giving the younger boy of the two a large smile. "Just go get plates and silverware... And napkins."

The younger boy of the couple nods happily, going back out into the kitchen. He grabs a few paper plates as well as some silverware and napkins.

The bit walks back in to see Johnny and Zachory sitting at the table patiently. That makes him smile more.

"Here you guys go," Ponyboy says, passing out the plates as well as the silverware. "Just get what you want."

Johnny nods and starts getting his food, humming. Ponyboy glances at Zachory who was sitting there, staring at the pot of spaghetti.

"You gonna eat some, hun," Ponyboy asks him gently. "I can help you get it if you want me to."

"I gotta wait for you and him to eat first before I get my food," Zachory replies. "That's what my mommy and daddy taught me."

"That's not how it's supposed to go," Ponyboy says. "You're supposed to eat before them. You should be their top priority."

Johnny nods his head I'm agreement, looking at the both of them. He of all people should know that.

"But I don't wanna eat all the food so you guys has nothing," Zachory says. "I don't wanna be a pig."

"Baby," Johnny cooes. "You don't be. Just take how much you want and eat, okay? We want you to be happy and healthy here."

"Okay," Zachory murmurs softly, shifting in his chair. "Can I has help?"

Ponyboy smiles gently and nods, grabbing the boy's plate before putting some on it. The young boy smiles at Ponyboy.

"Want a little more or is this good," Ponyboy asks.

"Hmm," Zachory hums. "Little more, pleaaaase."

Ponyboy laughs gently and puts a bit more on the plate before sitting it down in front of him. He starts getting his own food.

"Eat up, little buddy," Johnny says.

Zachory doesn't have to be told twice before digging into his food, a bit messily actually. Within a few minutes, the boy was covered in sauce.

"Oopsie," Zachory apologizes. "I didn't mean to be all messy..."

The young boy looks at them with sad eyes, almost expecting a punishment of some sort. Johnny frowns.

"You're all right," Johnny says. "You can't have fun without making a mess anyhow. We'll just get you in the tub."

Zachory giggles softly and nods, making grabby hands. Ponyboy stands and picks him up gently.

The young boy presses a sloppy kiss against his cheek, giggling more. Johnny couldn't help but smile at the two.

"I'll get the bath started for you," Ponyboy says. "We'll make sure you're squeaky clean."

Zachory nods his head quickly as Ponyboy carries him to the bathroom. Johnny follows behind them, making sure to have a towel with him.

Ponyboy sits the young boy down, turning on the warm water and plugging the tub. Zachory giggles.

"Ready to get clean, honey," Johnny asks.

"Yeah, I messy," Zachory squeals.

Johnny carefully pulls Zach's shirt off, his eyes watering at the sight of bruises littering the small boy's chest and shoulders. It was saddening to see.

"Poor baby," Johnny says quietly.

"You always looked like this when you were little, Johnny," Ponyboy murmurs. "I hated seeing you come over to my house with so many bruises..."

"I know..."

Zachory looks at them and tilts his head. He didn't know anything was wrong with the two.

"What's the matter," Zachory asks. "Did I do bad?"

"No, no you didn't do bad," Johnny says. "I just feel sad looking at all your bruises..."

"I sowwy," Zachory murmurs. "I didn't mean to."

"I know you didn't and you're gonna be okay from now on," Johnny says. "No one here is gonna touch you like your parents did or hurt you like they did..."

Zachory nods, hugging Johnny weakly and nuzzling him. Johnny hugs back and rubs his back softly.

"Let's get you in the tub now."

-  -  -  -  -

How was this?

I hope you guys know this us supposed to be a short story haha. It most likely will be 10 chapters or under 💖💞✨