“Then I think you have your answer. For your sake, it’s probably best to walk away. Get the bosses to switch you out.”

He nodded as he ground his teeth together. “You’re right. I hate it, but you’re right. Thank you for listening and talking this out with me.”

“West, it’s what friends do.”

“Speaking of friends, I’d prefer it if Lucas doesn’t know about this. It isn’t that I don’t trust him, but he’s in his own happy bubble of bliss, and I don’t want to drag him down with any of my troubles.”

“I won’t say anything because I agree, which is why Saint and I haven’t said anythin’ to anyone really. Well, except a few people.”

West nodded. Though, he looked like he was far away with other thoughts.

“Hey,” I started. When I had his eyes, I went on, “Is there somethin’ else botherin’ you?”

He rubbed the back of his neck and snorted. “What isn’t these days?”

“Anythin’ I can help with?”

He grinned. “Want to sit in on my classes and take my tests, so I don’t fail and lose my scholarship? But then there’s med school, which will be just as busy and another reason I need to keep this job, because they don’t care about my hours. But if anyone finds out I work there, it could destroy my career. I also need to get out of my unit, find a place, so I don’t have to go home and be suffocated by my parents. They don’t know I’m gay. Lucas thinks they’re all supportive and shit, but….” He shook his head. “I’m rambling. Forget it. I’ll be fine.” He laughed, but it wasn’t a real one. “I think I just need sleep.”

“Not sure I can help with much of any of that. But what about Lucas’s offer of you movin’ in with them? I’m sure they’d be cheaper than wherever you are, and then you could save a little or even quit at P and P for a normal job if it worries you that much.”

He nodded. “Yeah, I might just have to, but I have a little time to work things out.”

“How little is little?”

“About the moving situation, probably a week.” He smirked.

“West, Lucas’s place is huge. I’m pretty sure he was serious when he said you guys wouldn’t see each other. There’s nothin’ wrong with leanin’ on friends.”

His brows rose. “You ever done it?”

“That’s the thing. I’ve never really had people I could call friends until you and Lucas. Yeah, I have Boom, Wendy, and the brothers, but that’s all different. They’re more like family. I know my brothers would help me out in a pinch and would listen to me if needed. But ever since Lucas and you came into my life, I’ve just known it’s been different between us. We’re like… shit, the three bi or gay amigos.”

West laughed, and it was good to see. I wondered if there was another way I could help him out. I was sure it’d be healthier for him to get out of the job he was in. A thought occurred to me. I’d have to find out more information before I could voice it with West, but it could be good for him in the end.