That evening Ann and Emma are at her apartment talking to Andrew as Tom and Ben walk in.

“Hey, what’s everybody doing here?” Ben asks casually, hoping not to put a pin in his plans.

“We were just planning on going shopping,” Andrew says smiling. When Andrew first got there, he had borrowed some of Ben’s clothes and though they did eventually buy him some new clothes, Andrew didn’t particularly like their style.

“We were planning on going with him,” Emma says.

“That’s too bad,” Ben says. “We were hoping to have a boy’s night tonight.” The two women shoot a deadly stare at him as he clears his throat and continues. “Maybe we should take him shopping and then hang out. Right Andrew?”

“No,” Ann says before Andrew can answer. “We are going shopping and coming home, nothing else."

"How about we let Andrew decide," Ben counters and before an argument can ensue Emma interrupts.

“How about we all go? We first go shopping and then we can hang out or wherever. Is that good?” Ben and Ann share a glance as Andrew steps in.

“Sounds great!”

Tom is slightly relieved that he would not be the only one keeping an eye on Ben and what he does. After about half an hour the four of them go shopping, Andrew feels relaxed when searching for something he considers his style. After that, Ben decides to put his plan into motion and takes Andrew along with the rest of them to his gym.

“Woah,” Andrew says as he steps in excitedly. He was always was curious about fencing and now he has a chance to try it out.

“Place looks great huh?” Ben says smiling as Ann looks at him suspiciously. Not wanting to make a scene she silently walks in. “You want to try?” Ben says showing him a sabre as Andrew stretches out his hand to hold it.

This story has been unlawfully obtained without the author's consent. Report any appearances on Amazon.

“Wait,” Ann says firmly controlling her tone. “I don’t think this is a good idea.” Andrew looks disappointed knowing her medical expertise is probably correct. His expression reminds her of a puppy just wanting to play, knowing she would feel bad if she disappointing him. “Put on a helmet first and do not take it off at all costs.” Andrew smiles as Ben takes him to put in their gear. Emma too becomes curious and wants to try fencing, as she leaves to find some gear, Ann and Tom and now left alone.

“What is he planning Tom?” Ann asks softly.

“What do you mean,” Tom says feigning ignorance knowing Ann is catching on. “Ben said Andrew wanted to try fencing so.” Ann knows Andrew had always been fascinated with fencing especially the way Ben describes it. She knows Ben would be more careful now and not try anything, nevertheless she is still worried.

“Look at me,” Andrew says walking in happy as ever. Emma and Ben walk in beside him and they start a class. Ben gives him basic instructions and Andrew is able to keep up easily. Ann, Emma and Tom are happy with his progress while Ben sees this as a red flag.

“All right, let’s take a break!” Ben says. Emma is out of breath with a tough training session.

“Ben, you don’t look tired at all,” Emma remarks. Despite going to the gym herself and helping Ann out with fitness, she finds herself no match for Ben’s training. But what she didn’t consider was, Ben did not design this for beginners. As Andrew sits down and wipes the sweat off her face, Ann smiles to see him happy doing something.

“That was fun?”

“Yes,” Andrew replies. “You can just tell Ben’s a professional.” Ann smiles proudly as Ben notices her grin. Trying to contain his jealousy has proven too much for him and he says.

“Alright, let’s have a practice match,” these words fly out of Ben’s mouth as he smiles brightly. Tom knows no one can be ready for a match after just one lesson, a short one at that. But before anyone could raise any concerns Andrew gets up enthusiastically.

“Sweet,” Andrew says innocently as Emma stares at him in wonder.

‘This is not going to end well,’ Emma thinks as they begin a match. She sits next to Ann who looks growingly concerned. Tom on the other hand tries not to look as his best friend makes another foolish decision.

“We’re done,” Ben says. “Looks like I win.” Ben stands victorious over Andrew who looks exhausted as the three spectators find Ben’s actions nothing short of pathetic.

“You were amazing,” Andrew says taking off his helmet as Ben walks away hoping to be met with applause but is met with silence. Ann stares at him only angering him more.

“Let’s go! What’s taking you so long.” Ben looks back and finds Andrew now lying on the floor unconscious.