The
Flame Game
This is a cheap way to a story – you wanted a story? Here's the film script……. With commentary.
Joe:
<parks in the garage and goes out to get the mail, brings it back in
and flips through it in the kitchen>
Chris:
<Watching racing on tv>
Joe:
<puts the mail down and heads into the living room> Hey hon.
Chris:
Hi, <Leans back for a kiss, in the corner of the couch, arms folded>
Joe:
<kisses him> how was your day?
Chris:
ok. Yours?
Joe:
It was good. Settled a case before we needed to go to trial. Always
like that.
Chris:
well done, that's good.
Joe:
What's the homework look like for today?
Chris:
Isn't any.
Joe:
No? <taking off tie>
Chris:
No. Dinner's in the oven.
Joe:
What are we having?
Chris:
pork casserole.
Joe:
That sounds delicious. I'm going to change, be right back.
Chris:
<Goes back to the racing, arms still folded.>
Joe:
<changes out of his work clothes and into shorts and a tshirt, heads
back down> What else to we need to fix with the casserole?
Chris:
I'll do some rice when it's time.
Joe:
Okay. <heads into the kitchen to actually read and sort the mail>
Chris:
<Curls up on the sofa in a tighter huddle, glares at the racing>
Joe:
<gets through with that, checks on dinner, then yells> Want anything
to drink?
Chris:
Double vodka.
Joe:
<pours himself and iced tea and gets a can of Sprite for Chris> I
thought this would be better.
Chris:
why ask me then?
Joe:
In case you had a serious choice? Is something wrong?
Chris:
You're not my mother you know
Joe:
I think we both know that?
Chris:
then why can't I have what I want to drink?
Joe:
Because a double vodka would end your night pretty quickly, and I
planned on spending some time with you.
Chris:
yep. That's me. Flat on my back on half a glass of sherry
Joe:
I didn't say that. come here. <patting the couch next to him>
Chris:
<Goes, sullenly>
Joe:
<puts an arm around him> What's going on?
Chris:
Nothing.
Joe:
You don't seem to be in a very good mood.
Chris:
I felt like a drink
Joe:
You don't usually want that much alcohol.
Chris:
I just felt like it
Joe:
Why?
Chris:
I just feel like it! <Tries to get up and head into the kitchen>
Joe:
<pulls him back down, more serious> What's going on?
Chris:
Nothing!
Joe:
<gets the remote and turns the race off> Something is.
Chris:
Joe!
Joe:
I'll turn it back on once you tell me.
Chris:
I was watching that! I GET into bad moods, you do too, it doesn't mean
the sky's falling!
Joe:
No, it doesn't. But if there's a reason you're in a bad mood, I want
to know.
Chris:
<Slouches back into the sofa, NOT happy>
Joe:
Alright, you can think about it then. <gets the paper and opens it up>
Chris:
<Growls audibly>
Joe:
<reads>
Chris:
<Huffs>
Joe:
<reads>
Chris:
OKAY. school wasn't great.
Joe:
<puts the paper down> I'm sorry to hear that. What wasn't great about
it?
Chris:
<Looking at his knees> I got a four day suspension.
Joe:
<shocked> A what?
Chris:
Four day suspension. A whole bunch of people did.
Joe:
What happened?
Chris:
there was a troll on the college chat list thing, and a bunch of people
flamed him to get rid of him - apparently some of the mails went 'past
the line', and those people got suspended
Joe:
You took part in flaming someone?
Chris:
<Doesn't answer that one, looking down>
Joe:
Christopher.
Chris:
Someone used my account
Joe:
You're saying you didn't take part in this?
Chris:
Not in the mails that caused the trouble
Joe:
Who did?
Chris:
that's not important
Joe:
If you're accepting a 4 day suspension for someone else, it is VERY
important.
Chris:
it was just someone at college, that was all. I told them that when I
got the suspension letter, but they say the mails were in my account
name
Joe:
You're supposed to keep that information private. Did someone break
into your account or did you give them the password?
Chris:
someone I know who uses the account sometimes, I know them and its ok.
But the authorities said it was my account which makes me responsible.
I didn't see the mails until afterwards, it all happened in an
afternoon
Joe:
Do you have the mails?
Chris:
yes
Joe:
May I see them, please.
Chris:
<Gets up to put the computer on>
Joe:
<follows>
Chris:
<Logs into the college forum> There. Under the Traikes thread.
Joe:
<starts reading>
Chris:
it got nasty around the end of page two
Joe:
Check on dinner while I read.
Chris:
<Goes to put the rice on, not happy>
Joe:
<reads through, not liking what he's seeing, finishes the thread and
signs out>
Chris:
<Shuts the rice in the microwave, hears the computer shut down>
Joe:
<sits and thinks for a bit>
Chris:
<Comes back to him, mood changed now that Joe actually knows> Horrible
isn't it?
Joe:
Yes, it wasn't very nice at all. I'm shocked at the vehemence.
Chris:
he was being a pain, but that got really vicious
Joe:
I can see why the Dean handed down suspensions, that kind of behavior
can't be tolerated.
Chris:
it breached the forum rules apparently
Joe:
It breached a lot of rules. You didn't participate at all?
Chris:
<Shakes his head, sliding his arms around Joe's shoulders, wanting the
comfort> I didn't even see them until this morning.
Joe:
<holds him for a moment, then pulls him down into his lap> You do
realize that the suspension goes on your permanent record, the same one
that future employers have access to when you apply for jobs?
Chris:
I know. I tried to explain, I tried with several people, but the answer
was the same each time. My account, my responsibility, end of story.
Joe:
Did they ask who had posted it?
Chris:
Yes. I told them it was a friend I'd let use my account, but they said
I was responsible for what they put up there in my name. I didn't even
KNOW about this thread.
Joe:
Who was it?
Chris:
just someone at college.
Joe:
I want a name, please. That person is due a suspension as well.
Chris:
it won't achieve anything. They say I'm responsible for what I allow to
be published in my name as much as if I'd written it myself. My fault.
Joe:
I don't disagree. That wasn't a smart thing to do, letting someone
else post under your name. I want to know who it was, and I won't ask
nicely again.
Chris:
There's no point in a name you probably wouldn't even know, you're not
going to fix this Joe. I was stupid to trust them, end of story
Joe:
That is beside the point. Who was it?
Chris:
Joe it isn't going to matter. It really isn't. This is my problem now
and I'm the one who has to deal with it.
Joe:
Wrong. You may go stand in the corner, please, and think about that
name.
Chris:
Joe. Where is the POINT in giving you a name? What are you going to do
with it?
Joe:
I'm going to give it to the Dean. The person that used your account is
not getting off scot-free.
Chris:
<gently> Why do you think they're going to listen to you when I've
already tried that?
Joe:
Did you give them his name?
Chris:
No, but I asked what would happen. They said it made no difference. I'm
responsible for anything said in my name.
Joe:
I agree that you should be punished, but I don't agree that you should
receive the same punishment as those that actually wrote that trash.
That is part of your permanent file and it needs to be clear what your
part in it was. With the name of the person that authored it, we get
the true culprit punished and see if we can make a difference on your
own record.
Chris:
I can see that. But they're not going to listen to you Joe, I tried
with several people.
Joe:
We don't know until we try. Give me the name or go and face the
corner.
Chris:
I'm not going to help you get someone else into trouble. Especially not
a friend. It isn't fair to ask me to do that.
Joe:
<puts him on his feet> Corner.
Chris:
I can stand there until Christmas... <warning>
Joe:
<LOOKS, serious> Did you just threaten me?
Chris:
No. <frustrated, upset> I just want you to understand.
Joe:
I want YOU to understand - you are not getting your friend into
trouble. They did the job on their own. It's important that we do
what we can to have your permanent record reflect the correct facts.
If THAT doesn't convince you, the bottom line is I asked and I expect
to be told. Face the corner.
Chris:
<Goes, still not believing Joe's being so stubborn about this, mostly
upset he's so angry about it>
Joe:
<goes back into the kitchen to check on dinner>
Chris:
<Stands, miserable and frustrated>
Joe:
<leaves him there until dinner is ready. Puts that on the table>
Ready to give me a name?
Chris:
<Unhappily> No. Not because I don't understand or I'm being stubborn,
but because it won't help, it's going to make things worse
Joe:
You may come and eat.
Chris:
<Comes to the table>
Joe:
<serves them both> Does the suspension start tomorrow?
Chris:
today. I was sent home.
Joe:
What happens with homework and classwork?
Chris:
I just miss the classes.
Joe:
Any tests or projects you miss turning in?
Chris:
No sir
Joe:
<eating>
Chris:
<picking, upset>
Joe:
Eat your dinner.
Chris:
I'm not very hungry
Joe:
You will be later if you don't eat.
Chris:
I really don't want it
Joe:
Then you may head upstairs for a shower and get yourself ready for bed.
Chris:
Joe -
Joe:
Shower, Christopher.
Chris:
<Silently gets up and goes>
Joe:
<finishes his own meal, puts away any leftovers and cleans up the
kitchen>
Chris:
<Showers and gets ready for bed>
Joe:
<heads upstairs>
Chris:
<Sitting on the edge of the bed>
Joe:
<comes in, stands before him> Going to give me that name?
Chris:
I don't want to argue with you, I really don't. I just don't see how
this isn't going to make everything a lot worse.
Joe:
What is going to be worse?
Chris:
for a start, a friend who's no longer a friend, and a friend and dean
wondering why my boyfriend pitches in and argues on my behalf
Joe:
Slow down, I don't understand. Who's no longer your friend?
Chris:
the person you want the name of if I give it to you
Joe:
I have a question for you. Does this friend know you were suspended?
Chris:
..........no.
Joe:
Are you angry with him or her for putting you in this position?
Chris:
yes. But I haven't been able to contact him. And once I spoke to the
authorities I know there's nothing to be done anyway
Joe:
Why do you feel he shouldn't be punished as well?
Chris:
Not everyone's like us
Joe:
No.
Chris:
I don't want him to wonder why I need my boyfriend to fight my battles
for me, or why I have to drop him in it. He's going to feel awful
enough when he finds out what's happened and it won't MAKE a
difference. I know if it was just a case of telling the dean he'd do it
himself.
Joe:
Are you going to tell me who?
Chris:
Joe I just explained all that
Joe:
Then I'm finished asking for this evening. You'll spend the rest of
the evening in bed without books or tv and think about it. I've asked
for his name and whether or not you feel like giving it to me is now
very much out of the question. We DO need to talk about your part in
this, and what it means to you.
Chris:
I'm not trying not to take responsibility for this. I'm the one
handling it and I didn't even know about the conversation, I didn't
actually do anything wrong other than trust a good friend here Joe, I'm
not the bad guy
Joe:
Your friend IS attending school?
Chris:
yes
Joe:
Then I'd like to know why he asked to use your account, rather than his
own?
Chris:
because he isn't full time. Only full time students get free access
Joe:
<looks steadily at him> Was it Matthew?
Chris:
no.
Joe:
<continues looking>
Chris:
<Shuts his eyes, very upset> Mike.
Joe:
<incredulous> Michael??
Chris:
<Nods>
Joe:
<debates for a moment whether to involve them immediately or later,
chooses later> Thank you. We'll take that up with Michael in the next
day or two. We need to discuss the punishment for your part in this.
Chris:
I keep telling you, I didn't even KNOW about the conversation
Chris:
if I HAD I wouldn't have joined in, it was horrible.
Joe:
I'm very glad to hear that, but it doesn't change the fact that you
made a bad decision by allowing someone else use of your account, and
that you're now suspended from school for four days, does it?
Chris:
I'm suspended for something I didn't do. Mike has been using my account
for two years. I didn't mind, I don't go on the forum and he likes to.
Joe:
You're assigned a private password for a reason. You're responsible
for anything that gets posted under your name, which is how the
University wants it to be, so they can monitor their students and try
to prevent what happened today. That account needs to be used by you
alone. Mike can afford to pay for access and if he can't, then he
doesn't need to participate in the first place.
Chris:
I THOUGHT I could trust mike
Joe:
I would have thought so as well, but that doesn't make it right that
you gave him access to your privileged account.
Chris:
I didn't know that applied to someone who's a very close friend.
Joe:
The University wouldn't assign you a private password if they cared who
used what account.
Chris:
no, and I wouldn't give mine to just anyone
Joe:
You shouldn't give it to ANYone.
Chris:
OKAY, I get it! I trusted someone, who did something I wasn't even
involved in, I'M suspended, I'M in major trouble, YOU're mad at me and
I'll never bloody touch another computer! Happy now?
Joe:
No, I'm very far FROM happy, as will you be if you speak like that to
me again. <LOOKING>
Chris:
I'm sorry. But it's been a horrible day, I'm horribly in the wrong, and
I didn't actually do anything
Joe:
No, I can imagine it hasn't been a great day, but it's not horrible or
horribly wrong.
Chris:
I got suspended. You're carrying on like I killed someone.
Joe:
Stop with the dramatics, Sunshine. Your suspension is serious - it
stays on your records, it makes learning a lot harder, and had you had
any tests during these four days, it would have a serious affect on
your grade. School is hard enough without the additional problems this
brings along.
Chris:
<really on the brink of losing it.> I. Know. I had noticed. I'll go and
cut my throat on the front lawn if that will make you any more
convinced that I Get This.
Joe:
What did I JUST say?
Chris:
AGAIN that you don't think I'm feeling sufficiently bad about this!
Joe:
Face the corner. <pointing>
Chris:
No. <Getting up, heading for the bathroom> I've had it with this. I've
had a lousy day, I expected SOME understanding.
Joe:
<turns, but doesn't move, voice changes> Christopher Stevens, WHAT did
you just say to me?
Chris:
That I expected some understanding Joseph, not blame. <Slams the
bathroom door behind him>
Chris:
*and I would have used Joe's surname but I can't remember it
Joe:
*he doesn't have one?
Chris:
*I THINK it might be Robertson but I'm not sure
Joe:
*Yes
Joe:
*sorry
Joe:
*lol. he's a little ****
Chris:
*this is Chris. Sell him to a drama company
Joe:
*ALL of your brats are like that.
Chris:
*and you don't ever lose your temper?
Joe:
*lol
Joe:
You have until the count of three to get yourself back in here, or I'm
coming in there with the strap. ONE.
Chris:
<Exploding out of the bathroom> GO ON THEN. I don't bloody CARE! You
can't make this day any worse anyway!
Joe:
<takes him by the arm and over to the bed> You have NO idea. <pulls
him down across his knees and starts spanking him>
Chris:
*which is really going to cheer him up
Joe:
*lol
Chris:
<Fights for a moment, then bursts into floods of tears>
Joe:
<yanks down the pjs and spanks for a few minutes more, making sure his
bottom is hot and stinging, pulls the pants back up and sets him on his
feet> Corner.
Chris:
<Goes, sobbing>
Joe:
<gets up and straightens up the bed, trying to settle himself down and
keep an eye on Chris at the same time
Chris:
<Still crying, not just reaction but thoroughly miserable>
Joe:
<gives them both about ten minutes to settle, sits down in the big
chair in the room, voice still stern, but kind> Come here.
Chris:
<Goes to him, arms folded tightly. Not defiant, defensive>
Joe:
Sit down. <pulls him down into his lap, puts an arm around him>
Chris:
<Sobbing starts again but arms stay folded>
Joe:
<rubs his shoulder, not saying anything>
Chris:
<makes himself calm down>
Joe:
I'm sorry that Michael has put you into this position.
Chris:
<doesn't answer>
Joe:
It wasn't fair of him and you have every right to be angry with him.
Chris:
<still doesn't answer>
Joe:
The rules are what they are. The Dean I'm sure, believes that you had
nothing to do with the writing, but his hands are tied because
University policy tells him what to do.
Chris:
I told you I got that
Joe:
Then all that needs to happen is you serve your four days of
suspension, knowing your conscience is clear because you didn't take
part in the ugliness that happened.
Chris:
<doesn't answer, not looking at him>
Joe:
Chris.
Chris:
yes
Joe:
What's bothering you the most?
Chris:
I don't know
Joe:
Mad at the university?
Chris:
I don't know
Joe:
Break it down. I know you're mad at Michael, right?
Chris:
I suppose
Joe:
Why is it only suppose? He said some pretty bad things in your name.
Chris:
That doesn't have anything to do with it. I don't even know what the
thread was really about, he was involved in it and I know Mike isn't
mean, he just lost his temper. And he never pretended to BE me, he just
accesses the forum through my email account
Joe:
That's fair enough, but his loss of temper has gotten you suspended as
part of the whole problem.
Chris:
He didn't mean that to happen and he doesn't even know about it yet.
Joe:
Are you mad at me?
Chris:
I'm tired, let's just go to bed and finish this in the morning.
Joe:
No, I want an answer. Are you mad at me?
Chris:
yes, ok, I am
Joe:
It's okay to be. Why in particular?
Chris:
Because this was hard enough without you blaming me too
Joe:
Honey, I never blamed you for the writing. You said you didn't do it
and I believed you. The reason I got upset with you was because I
asked for the name of the person that did that. You refused. That
isn't how we work and I needed you to understand that.
Chris:
I don't mean that. I meant I really didn't need to hear a lecture on
how stupid I was to trust one of my closest friends and just how bad
this has made things at school. <tears starting to overflow again> I'm
upset and scared enough about that, I GET the picture, I didn't
actually DO anything wrong here. And I incidentally didn't see the
point in making Mike's life miserable either, he didn't mean this to
happen.
Joe:
How many times do things happen that you know very well you're in
trouble for, and why, and that I still lecture you on? Every time I
lecture you, you're not totally surprised by what I have to say, are
you?
Chris:
no
Joe:
This is no different.
Chris:
it is. I could have used some understanding and support, not you of all
people trying to make me feel still worse about this. <Slides off Joe's
lap, just wanting to go away>
Joe:
<snags his wrist> We're not finished here. Sit back down.
Chris:
<Goes where he's pulled, not outwardly fighting, but no eye contact>
Joe:
I am always here to support you, but you know very well how I handle
defiance. You defied me by refusing to tell me it was Mike when I
asked, didn't you?
Chris:
I'm not talking about that
Joe:
I am, and I expect an answer.
Chris:
yes, ok
Joe:
I can't support you, until you support us.
Chris:
that isn't fair
Joe:
It's not fair that I ask you to participate in our relationship before
I can help you?
Chris:
<Pulls firmly out of his arms and gets up> I'm sorry. I'm very sorry.
Joe:
**is what joe saying coming out right?
Joe:
*or is chris just being selective?
Chris:
*I don't know. I'm seeing only through Chris's eyes so it's hard to
tell? I'd see it that he's going to feel he can't win this whatever he
says
Joe:
*I was trying to have Joe say, he refused to give the name, thus earned
punishment and that had to be overcome before they could continue to
deal with the issue.
Chris:
*It didn't unfold like that though- Chris might feel that he was
punished for losing his temper and arguing back, or that Joe is saying
in a way he deserved not to be sympathised with or supported because he
didn't play fair
Joe:
*<sigh>
Chris:
*lol it's not supposed to be easy
Joe:
Chris, come back here.
Chris:
I'm sorry. I really am sorry. You're right, I'm wrong. I'm going to
bed.
Joe:
Christopher.
Chris:
What?
Joe:
Come. Here.
Chris:
<Goes to him, just about holding together from another explosion>
Joe:
<gets up, puts Chris in the chair and squats down at eye level in front
of him> What are you feeling?
Chris:
<Laughs, since it's that or cry or throttle him> Take a wild guess!
Joe:
You're mad at me but you're not telling me why.
Chris:
I KEEP telling you why. I feel let down. I'm mad at you, I'm mad at the
dean and I don't want to talk about this any further.
Joe:
I let you down because I didn't listen?
Chris:
No. I said. I give in. You're right. I got it wrong. I screwed up. I'm
the one who was stupid.
Joe:
And I said that wasn't true, didn't I?
Chris:
*did he?
Joe:
*I'm saying yes?
Chris:
*Ok - can't remember exactly what he said
Joe:
*I know he told him he wasn't stupid, etc
Chris:
*ok
Chris:
I FEEL stupid.
Joe:
I can understand that. You trusted Michael and he let you down. You
weren't stupid though.
Chris:
Well I'm getting this wrong aren't I?
Joe:
Stop it Christopher. You've had a bad experience today but you don't
need to borrow yet more trouble by saying things like that.
Chris:
There is nothing I can say to you that isn't going to get me into more
trouble!
Joe:
That isn't true. You can always say how you feel, but you know I'm not
listening to you call yourself names.
Chris:
can I please go to bed?
Joe:
.........yes?
Chris:
*LOL if not PLEASE go to bed. In another state.
Chris:
Thankyou. <Goes to the bathroom, shuts the door>
Joe:
*Hey!
Chris:
*well you told Chris he could go to bed
Joe:
*thats what i wanted to do. lol
Chris:
*yes. PLEASE go to bed.
Joe:
*get that again from before joe said yes
Chris:
*ok
Chris:
There is nothing I can say to you that isn't going to get me into more
trouble!
Joe:
That isn't true. You can always say how you feel, but you know I'm not
listening to you call yourself names.
Chris:
can I please go to bed?
Joe:
No, we're not leaving this without sorting it all out.
Chris:
It is sorted out. I'm sorry. I apologise.
Joe:
What are you apologising for?
Chris:
anything you like
Joe:
That, young man, is not going to cut it.
Chris:
then what do you want?
Joe:
*to hide
Joe:
*gggrrrr
Chris:
*LOL
Chris:
*checkmate?
Joe:
What I want is for you to tell me why you ended up getting ready for
bed immediately after dinner.
Chris:
because you were mad I wouldn't tell you the name you wanted
Joe:
Very good. Does that have anything to do you being suspended and how I
feel about that?
Chris:
I don't know. All I know is you're mad I got suspended, you're mad I
let Mike have my password although I trust him and I know him about as
well as anyone, and you're mad I wouldn't tell you Mike's name
Joe:
You didn't trust me to tell me his name.
Chris:
Because you were about to go storming up to the school and raise caine.
Joe:
Whether I did that or not is beside the question, as it's my choice
first. I asked for Mike's name and you refused to give it to me. That
bothered me a lot, Christopher. You didn't trust me to do what I
thought was right, you took those options from me. That isn't your
choice to make, is it?
Chris:
what do you WANT me to do? Drop a good friend right in it? I didn't see
any point in getting HIM into serious trouble with you and Eric and the
school when I'm already neck deep!
Joe:
That isn't your choice.
Chris:
you think Mike will see it like that? Because I don't
Joe:
Christopher. That isn't your choice. When I asked for the name, you
needed to give it to me. THEN we can talk about what to do with that
information.
Chris:
yes. it was when you calmed down and got to that point I told you
remember? initially you were about to storm into school with all guns
blazing
Joe:
That was before I knew the name. You further know that I would do
nothing to hurt you, don't you?
Chris:
Of course I do, but I don't want you ringing Eric and going ballistic,
or going to school and going ballistic
Joe:
That isn't your choice.
Chris:
great
Joe:
Hey. I didn't say that I wouldn't listen to you. Or that I'd go off
half cocked. What I want you to understand is, I asked for the name
and I expected to be told. And if I'm not, then you're being
disobedient and I WILL deal with that first.
Chris:
For which I've said I'm sorry about twenty times now.
Joe:
THAT is why you were sent upstairs to get ready for bed and why I
refused to talk any more about what happened. NOT because I didn't
care.
Chris:
That isn't what I'm saying. What I said was I didn't need to be made to
feel more guilty and more upset about this as though I've done
something terrible. I haven't. I actually haven't.
Joe:
*there isn't anything else joe can say
Chris:
*why not?
Joe:
*he doesn't get the idea. he trusted mike, yes, but his account was
his alone. and he's now out of school for 4 days and should rightfully
be punished for that, but not to the same degree as if he'd written the
letter. i already tried explaining that to him once
Chris:
*gosh and that didn't work?
Chris:
*If he's too upset to hear it, he isn't going to hear it. What do you
think should happen now?
Joe:
*I guess go to bed. then I'm not sure if joe should call eric, its
still early evening, or if they should wait until the morning. but joe
isn't going to let chris stay home alone during his 4 days off
Chris:
*Ok, that makes sense. Id think if he's in a state and feeling
thoroughly and unfairly got at - which if he's spent his day being told
off at college somewhat unfairly he will be - then it makes more sense
to calm him down now and sort it out with him when he's calmer. And
it's up to Joe when and how he lets Eric know, but he would need Mike
to know ASAP about the forum situation before Mike causes any further
trouble by posting there
Joe:
*ok.
Joe:
<still squatting and looking for a long minute> Okay, I think it's
time for bed. We'll discuss this further tomorrow.
Chris:
What else is there to discuss? I'm sorry. I'm sorry I ever let mike
near that computer, I'm sorry I'm out of school and that upsets me a
lot more than I look if you don't think I'm upset enough-
Joe:
<getting up> that's enough Christopher. I know you're upset, which is
why I think right now is a good time to settle down and try to sleep.
Things will be a little more clear and less hurtful in the morning.
<holding out his hand to help chris up>
Chris:
<Gets up, not taking it>
Joe:
<puts hand down, waiting>
Chris:
<Goes across to the bed, gets in>
Joe:
<comes over and tucks the blanket in, leans over for a kiss>
Chris:
<Allows him, but doesn't respond>
Chris:
*which really is VILE
Joe:
Sweet dreams. I'll be up in a while. <heads out, turning off the
light>
Chris:
<Turns over, tries not to dissolve into tears until he's out of
earshot>
Joe:
<heads downstairs, logs back into Chris' account and figures out how
and changes the password>
Chris:
<Crying, quietly>
Joe:
<Calls Eric's home>
Chris:
Hi? <mike>
Joe:
Just the person I wanted to talk to. It's Joe.
Chris:
Hi, <Cheerful> What can I do for you?
Joe:
I'd like to know what you were thinking, posting that horrible mail
onto the University forum this morning?
Chris:
<Freezes in absolute shock>
Joe:
Michael?
Chris:
I - er -
Joe:
I'm waiting.
Chris:
It was part of a thread - if you didn't see the whole thread -
Joe:
I saw enough. Do you realise that Chris has been suspended for four
days because of that mail?
Chris:
what?!
Joe:
The Dean has suspended anyone that participated in that particular
thread. Your post was done through Chris' account, and thus he's been
suspended.
Chris:
Oh God. Joe I swear, Chris never saw a word of that thread. I haven't
seen him all week so he didn't even know about the conversation, he
doesn't read the forums.
Joe:
That's what he said. He's pretty upset about it and wouldn't give up
your name for some time. Neither have you been mentioned to the Dean.
Chris:
I'll go straight in first thing in the morning and explain it was me.
I'm so sorry, this has nothing at all to do with Chris.
Joe:
<back to his usually nice tone> Thank you. May I speak to Eric a
moment?
Chris:
He's here. <breathing down Mike's neck having worked out the
conversation isn't a happy one>
Joe:
Thank you. Eric?
Chris:
Hi, what's the problem?
Joe:
I'll let Mike explain it in full. Seems that Mike participated in a
thread of discussion on the University boards that wasn't very nice.
The Dean has since suspended anyone that had a part in it. Since Mike
used Chris's account, he's the one that was suspended.
Chris:
Oh no. <taking that in> Is this a case of Mike just explaining to fix
this?
Joe:
I hope so, but I'm not sure. Chris wouldn't give him up and even if he
had, the Dean wouldn't have been able to just believe it wasn't Chris
himself. Having Mike explain it might help Chris, I don't know. I'm
going to work from home tomorrow, since Chris won't be in class. Mike
hasn't been able to apologize to Chris and I think tomorrow would be a
good time for that.
Chris:
I'm sure he'll be wanting to. Is Chris ok? Not easy standing the shock
of this kind of thing anyway, never mind if he hasn't actually done it!
Joe:
He will be. It was a rough night, but mostly because he refused to
mention Mike until it was almost too late. He's in bed now, things
will look better in the morning.
Chris:
Poor Chris. I take it you read the thread? I won't be able to access it
and Mike will not be using that account again- do you know how bad it
was?
Joe:
I've changed the password but you're welcome to access it to read. You
probably should, just to get the whole picture, and no, it wasn't very
nice. First initial, last name, password is graytrail.
Chris:
Thank you, I'll take a look. I'd like to know what we're talking about.
My sincerest apologies to you and Chris, if we can fix this we will.
Joe:
Thanks, I'm sure Mike will do the right thing. Talk to you tomorrow.
Chris:
Goodnight. <Hangs up. Kills mike>
Joe:
*lol
Joe:
<does whatever someone does before going to bed, goes up about 10>
Chris:
<Still awake, no longer sobbing but still tearful>
Joe:
<gets ready for bed, slides in, gentle and calm> What are you still
doing awake?
Chris:
playing bingo
Joe:
<sighs> I called and talked to Mike. He was very upset to hear that
you'd gotten suspended.
Chris:
I told you he would be. He didn't mean to do any harm.
Joe:
He's going to head over to talk to the Dean and see if he can get
anything settled with him.
Chris:
They won't listen. I tried.
Joe:
It's not going to hurt though.
Chris:
I suppose not.
Joe:
<turns out the light> Come here.
Chris:
I'm ok.
Joe:
<pulls him over to lie against him and rubs his back>
Chris:
<Not resisting, still trembling, but not coming any closer either>
Joe:
It's going to be alright sweetheart. That i can promise.
Chris:
it isn't, is it! I've got a mark on my permanent record for something I
didn't even do!
Joe:
We're going to wait and see what Mike can accomplish tomorrow. Then if
we don't get anywhere at that point, maybe we both can go in and talk
to the Dean.
Chris:
How do you think that makes me look Joe?
Joe:
It makes you look like you're taking this seriously.
Chris:
To take my boyfriend in with me to fight my battles?
Joe:
This isn't a battle we're fighting. It's a situation we're trying to
resolve. It helps to have someone in your corner, to suggest things
that you may not think of, or just to be there to offer moral support.
I'm not taking up a fight for you, I'm there to support you.
Chris:
It just doesn't look very good to the authorities.
Joe:
How do you know?
Chris:
I feel like I'm asking my mum to come to school with me
Joe:
Hon, I don't have to be there if you really don't want me.
Chris:
OF COURSE I BLOODY WANT YOU, WHAT DO YOU THINK I'M SO BLOODY UPSET
ABOUT?
Joe:
There is no need to yell. If you want me there, you know I'll be
there. And you don't need to worry about what ANYone else thinks of me
being there.
Chris:
<Shot his bolt, tears overwhelming>
Joe:
<Rubbing his shoulders, comforting>
Chris:
<Finally turns over and clings to him> Just DON'T be mad at me. I can't
handle you as well as everyone else.
Joe:
I'm not mad at you, you don't need to worry about that at all.
Chris:
Then why did you carry on at me about it? <sobbing> I DIDN'T write the
mails. I don't even USE the forum and Mike doesn't post under my name,
he doesn't pretend to be me
Joe:
I wasn't carrying on at you about the mails.
Chris:
You were mad about me letting Mike write them and getting suspended. I
didn't DO anything
Joe:
Shhhh. I'm not mad. It's late, lets get some sleep.
Chris:
You ARE mad. You were mad all evening
Joe:
We're not discussing this anymore tonight.
Chris:
<Sobbing>
Joe:
<Rubbing his shoulders> Shhhh, settle down, it's going to be alright.
Chris:
<Gradually calms>
Joe:
<Keeps rubbing, waiting for him to finally fall to sleep>
Chris:
<Takes a while but does finally doze off>
Joe:
<Goes to sleep soon after>
Chris:
<Sleeps through, tired out>
Joe:
<wakes up, leaving Chris to sleep and makes something for breakfast>
Chris:
<wakes slowly, very tired and headachy from last night>
Joe:
<comes upstairs> You're awake. I've got breakfast on the table, come
on down.
Chris:
<Gets up, slowly>
Joe:
Not feeling so well?
Chris:
headache
Joe:
I'll get you some Tylenol. <heads downstairs>
Chris:
Thanks. <Washes his face, head pounding, gulps water and heads
downstairs>
Joe:
<waffles and sausage on the table, orange juice and two tylenol in
Chris' spot. Joe hugs him, kisses his forehead> good morning.
Chris:
<Hugs him back> Good morning. Sorry for being so vile last night
Joe:
You weren't THAT vile. Get your tylenol and something in your stomach
and I'm sure today will get better quicker.
Chris:
Are you coming in with me this morning?
Joe:
To school?
Chris:
yes
Joe:
We're going to wait until we here from Mike or Eric, after their
meeting with the Dean.
Chris:
<Nods, slowly, trying to eat>
Joe:
We're going to need more waffle mix, don't let me forget to write that
on our list.
Chris:
Ok. <Picking>
Joe:
<finishes up his breakfast> I'd like for you to email your professors
first thing and ask for the work you need to do from yesterday and
today.
Chris:
Yes sir.
Joe:
I changed your password last night, it's now graytrail.
Chris:
yes sir.
Joe:
Finished with breakfast?
Chris:
no sir.
Joe:
Want anything else at the moment?
Chris:
No thanks. I'll finish this.
Joe:
Okay. I'm going to call the office and check in. <gets up to put his
plate in teh dishwasher>
Chris:
<Sits, trying to finish the waffle>
Joe:
<heads down to the office and calls in>
Chris:
<Gets up, loads the dishwasher and puts it on>
Joe:
<still on the phone>
Chris:
<Gets himself another drink of water, goes to start up the computer>
Joe:
<hangs up the phone>
Chris:
<Opens email>
Joe:
<looking over notes he'd taken from the phone call>
Chris:
Joe
Joe:
Yes?
Chris:
<Sits back, mail open>
Joe:
What is it? <looking over>
Chris:
Hate mail
Joe:
About the thread?
Chris:
yes. Someone who was upset about what 'I' wrote. It's horrible.
Joe:
<comes over and puts his hands on Chris' shoulder. Close that down and
get the emails to the professors.
Chris:
<Shuts it, opens another email, shaken>
Joe:
chris. Leave the mails alone. Email your professors, please.
Chris:
<Writes the mail>
Joe:
Got them finished?
Chris:
yes sir
Joe:
Get yourself into the tub for a soak.
Chris:
<Goes upstairs, still shaken from the content of the mail>
Joe:
<goes over and opens up the different mails, getting thoroughly mad >
Chris:
<Lies in the bath, trying to calm down and convince himself it wasn't
him it was aimed at>
Joe:
Joe:
<composes a blanket email and prints it out, heads up to the bath,
knocks> How's the bath doing? Chris
Its ok. <looks back at him> did you read those mails?
Joe:
Yes. I composed a response to send anyone that writes. What do you
think? <hands it to him>
Chris:
<reads it, flinches> Ouch
Joe:
People respond without knowing the whole story and I'd rather let them
know that immediately. It's not mean or argumentative, just states the
facts as they are, along with an apology for your name being dragged
into the mess.
Chris:
You want to send that to everyone?
Joe:
I'd like your permission to send that to anyone that writes hate mail.
I'll monitor it myself for a few days.
Chris:
ok. I don't think I'm ever going in that mail box again
Chris:
I don't blame you
Joe:
I'll check through it for your replies on homework, the rest you don't
need to worry about. I'll go do that now.
Chris:
thankyou
Joe:
<heads downstairs and returns the few emails that are needed, shuts
that program down and starts working on some stuff he needs to do.
Chris:
<Gets out and dries, dresses>
Joe:
<working in the office>
Chris:
<Comes down and leans on his shuolders, folding arms around his neck>
Joe:
Headache gone?
Chris:
No.
Joe:
Come around here. <moves chair back and pulls him down in his lap>
Chris:
<leans back against him, wanting the contact>
Joe:
<massages the back of his neck for a few minutes>
Chris:
<Leans back against his hand> That's nice. I've got homework to do.
What are you working on.
Joe:
I have a brief due in court on Friday that I'm working on. What
homework do you have at the moment?
Chris:
Nothing special. Revision for a quiz. Reading.
Joe:
Why don't you turn the radio on and stretch out on the couch for a few
minutes, see if that won't help the tylenol to work,?
Chris:
I ought to work
Joe:
You've got nothing but time today. Rest for a bit, then get started on
it. I need to shower, I feel like a bum working in my pjs!
Chris:
You look like one too. But don't shave on my account. <kisses his
cheek>
Joe:
<hugs him, puts him on his feet>I'll be back down in a few minutes.
Chris:
<Goes in to the sofa, stretches out, shuts his eyes and tries to stop
his head pounding>
Joe:
<showers and dresses>
Chris:
<turns over, tries to get comfortable>
Joe:
<heads downstairs and into living room> Would you like some iced tea?
Chris:
Yes please
Joe:
<goes in and makes two glasses, hands him one> I'm going back to the
office to continue working. I'll check back in a few minutes and see
how you're doing.
Chris:
I'm ok. When it eases off I'll get some reading done
Joe:
Make sure that tv stays off. <heads into the office and starts working
on his brief>
Chris:
<Shuts his eyes, trying to calm down the pounding
Joe:
<working>
Joe:
**think mike will get anyone to change their minds on the 4 days
suspension?
Chris:
*I don't know?
Joe:
*seems like if chris said it, he couldn't necessarily be believed. but
if the person that wrote it said it, then it does make chris look less
guilty. i'm not sure that he should still be suspended the whole time
Joe:
*i don't know.
Chris:
*I don't think so. It would be hard to prove, but I really wouldn't
blame chris much if at all
Joe:
*probably given time served and a reminder that his account is his
only, because you can see what happens
Joe:
*?
Chris:
*that sounds right
Joe:
*who will call first? think mike/eric will stop by after their talk
and then the school will call to tell Chris he can come back?
Chris:
*I'd think Mike and Eric would call in and say it's gone to meeting,
and then the school call later
Chris:
<Aching, trying to find some how to lie that doesn't hurt>
Joe:
<working>
Chris:
Joe?
Joe:
<gets up and comes through> Yes?
Chris:
This is going to be a migrane. I'm going to take the heavy duty stuff
Joe:
Let me get that for you then. <ruffles his hair, heads upstairs to get
the good stuff>
Chris:
<Shuts his eyes, trying to stop the room moving>
Joe:
<comes back down with the drugs> Here you go.
Chris:
Thanks. <Takes the capsules>
Joe:
Want to stay here or try lying in bed?
Chris:
Here? It's cooler. Can you put the burner on?
Joe:
**whats a burner?
Chris:
*um. You put lavender oil in the top and a candle/hot stone underneath
and it heats the oil, makes the scent strong
Joe:
I'll do that. <gets up and turns that on, then pulls the curtains
closed over the window to block out some of the light> Relax now, and
try not to think about school. I'm sure that's what's got you
started.'
Chris:
It'll go off in a bit
Joe:
I'll check on it. Relax now. <heads back into the office>
Chris:
<Concentrates on lying still>
Joe:
<working>
Chris:
<Gets up, goes into the bathroom>
Joe:
<working>
Chris:
<Stands for a few minutes trying to settle his stomach, then throws up>
Joe:
Joe:
<thinking he's taking a while, gets up and heads towards the bathroom>
Chris:
<Clutching the sink, getting his breath back>
Joe:
Chris? Are you alright?
Chris:
<Hit by another bout>
Joe:
<opens the door>***what DO you do for someone who's getting sick??
<gets a cold washrag and a glass of water ready, talking soothingly>
Chris:
*Leave 'em alone until they feel better I suppose- it depends on how
the person feels about it, I hate an audience
Chris:
<straightens up, flushes the loo and takes the water to rinse his mouth
out, shaky and eyes watering> Thanks. I'm ok, just the migrane
Joe:
<washes his face when he's done with the water> Let's get you back on
the couch, hmmm?
Chris:
Thanks. I'd love a cup of tea.
Joe:
I'll make us both one. <follows him out to the living room, then heads
into the kitchen to make the tea>
Chris:
<curls up on the sofa, pain a little better>
Joe:
<brings tea through a few minutes later> Here you go.
Chris:
thanks. sorry, I didn't mean to disturb you
Joe:
You didn't disturb me. Is the pain a little better now?
Chris:
yes, its easing off
Joe:
<runs a hand through his hair> Your eyes are a little clearer too.
Chris:
That'll be the worst of it over. what are you working on?
Joe:
Still on the brief. I needed a break anyway.
Chris:
<sips tea, tired, about ready to fall asleep. door bell rings>
Joe:
That may be Eric and Mike. <puts down tea and goes to the door>
Chris:
<sincerely hoping not>
Joe:
<opens door>
Chris:
Hi Joe. <eric with an acutely embarrassed mike>
Joe:
Hello Eric, Mike. Come in. <holding the door open to let them enter>
Chris:
<gos in, Mike looking about ready to let the floor swallow him up> I'm
really sorry about everything Joe
Joe:
**who said? mike?
Joe:
I was surprised. I didn't expect to see your name connected with
something like that.
Chris:
<flushing still darker> No sir. I'm sorry you saw it
Joe:
Sorry I saw it, or sorry that it was done at all?
Joe:
**oooohhh, he's mean. lol
Chris:
*LOL no kidding!
Chris:
<still darker, mumbles something incoherent>
Joe:
*sorry, i'm laughing here
Chris:
*why?
Joe:
*i don't know.
Chris:
*LOL Ok.
Joe:
*guess because i can make eric say something too
Chris:
*LOL go for it, gang up why don't you
Joe:
<lets that go> Did you get a meeting with the Dean this morning?
Chris:
<Eric, looking sternly at Mike> You can do better than that.
Joe:
<shifting weight on his feet, still looking at the floor> I'm sorry
anything was said at all.
Chris:
<Eric> We saw the dean. I'm afraid he won't budge. He was extremely
unhappy with Michael, but the rules stand that the account holder is
liable.
Joe:
<shakes head> Thank you for trying.
Chris:
We really did. Mike tried very hard. But they're stuck to their rules.
Apparently they used the same policy they use for online plagiarism,
which is the account holder is legally liable - you're the lawyer,
you'll know this better than me.
Joe:
Yes, it's in the contracts and the only legal way should they be taken
to court to show who actually wrote the stuff. I wasn't sure if they'd
budge or not, but it was certainly worth a try.
Chris:
I'm very sorry Chris is carrying the can. Mike assured me he had no
idea of the content of the conversation
Joe:
Thankyou. Chris said he hadn't known and I believed him. I think Mike
owes the apology to Chris but he's not feeling well at the moment.
Chris:
I'm sorry to hear that. He must have had a very stressful evening
Joe:
He was pretty upset about it all.
Chris:
I'm sure he was. I'm suspending Mike since the college won't. And if
there's anything we cabn do to help plase let us know.
Joe:
Thank you again for trying with the Dean today. Chris isn't missing
anything important and he'll be getting his homework assignments taken
care of.
Chris:
I'm very glad, I'm just sorry he's had to be affected at all when he's
done nothing wrong. Tell him how sorry we are? Come on Mike. I hope
Chris is feeling better soon.
Joe:
Thank you. <sees them out>
Joe:
**pooooooor mike. lol
Chris:
*LOL I get the impression he is very dead
Joe:
*yes
Joe:
*very very very dead
Chris:
*poor boy
Chris:
<Trying to hide in a corner of the sofa> Have they gone?
Joe:
Yes. <comes over and sits down, takes his hand> Mike wanted to
apologize but I told him you werent' feeling well.
Chris:
<heartfelt> thank you. Did they change anyone's mind?
Joe:
<shakes his head no> No, I'm sorry. The school is sticking to their
guns about that.
Chris:
<Doesn't say anything but looks down>
Joe:
It's going to be alright.
Chris:
I'm so sorry
Joe:
Why? You did nothing more than trust a friend.
Chris:
I still got suspended. Which is always going to look bad.
Joe:
We can write a letter to be inserted into your file if you'd like.
Explain our side, and that we understand why the school suspended you,
just that you didn't participate in the flaming that took place. That
should fix what employers will see and there shouldn't be a problem.
Chris:
That's a good idea, that really is. I'd feel a lot better about that.
Joe:
We'll get that done in the next few days then. I think you should take
another dose of painkillers as you lost some of that earlier and relax
until lunch.
Chris:
I knew I had a good reason for hanging around with a lawyer. <Gets up
to get the painkillers, leans over to hug Joe>
Joe:
<laughs, hugs him back> Glad that degree was worth something.
Chris:
Definitely. <Goes to get painkillers>
Joe:
<gets up and takes the mugs back through to the kitchen>
Chris:
<Takes two painkillers, blinking a bit in the light> Can I go and sit
outside? It's fresher out there?
Joe:
Maybe after lunch. Rest on the couch, that way you might actually get
some sleep out of it.
Chris:
Ok. <Goes back into the lounge, curls up on the couch>
Joe:
<heads back into the office to work>
Chris:
<Quickly falls asleep>
Joe:
*yay!