By Whits

JC wakes up when the bus hits a bump, swearing under his breath. Immediately he's aware of the slick sound of tires on a wet highway, and groans in annoyance. Even from his bunk he can hear the steady swish of the wipers.

Muttering, he pushes off the tangled mess of blankets and gets out of bed. Out the window the sky is slate gray, thick clouds obstinately blocking the sun and stretching as far as he can see. A quick check of his watch tells him it's only noon, though it looks like at least eight o’clock, which means they still have about four hours before they get to their destination. He spots Joey on the couch, knees tucked up to his chin as he stares moodily at the dreary scenery flashing past them.

“It’s still gross out,” JC comments.

“Yeah,” Joey replies, attention still on the window.

JC flops on the other end of the couch, tucking his bare toes between the cushions. Joey shifts so he's looking at him, eyes flat and dull as the sky. JC reaches for a pillow and squashes it against his chest, using it as a chin rest. He gives Joey a sympathetic look.

“Just one of those days, huh?”

Joey nods. “Yeah.” He sighs, then turns back to the window.



in the mood?