Different But Same (Eli "Hawk" Moskowitz)

LXV. Encino Cemetery

When Lainey and Eli arrived home from the hospital, he had insisted she take a hot bath. So she agreed, as long as he took one with her.

Eli was reluctant at first, but he soon realised why she wanted to. She wanted to experience a soft, intimate moment with him. She just wanted that closeness without it having to be sexual.

Sure, Eli knew there was more to intimacy than sex. But was surprised when she'd suggested the idea. But he didn't regret it one bit when she lay in his arms quietly as the world around them seemed to melt away.

That was until Chozen walked straight past the open door of the bathroom. With everything going on, they then realised that the house wasn't in fact empty.

Lainey giggled at the realisation. "Eli," she whispered. "What if he came in here just then? I'd actually be mortified."

"This is why I should lock the door," he explained awkwardly as he climbed out of the bath and locked it.

He hadn't even climbed back into the bath when a knock sounded against the door.

"Who is it?" Eli stupidly asked.

"Chozen!"

"Everything okay?"

"Where's Lainey? I can't find her. Amanda told me she was home now. She should be home by now!"

"She is."

"I can't find her anywhere."

"She's in here with me."

".. Oh, I'm sorry. I'll leave you be."

Eli cringed at the thought of Chozen's face behind the door.

–

The Next Morning

Eli had stayed the night with Lainey. The LaRusso house was empty as someone thought it was a good idea for everyone to crash at Louie's apartment as his place was closer to the hospital.

Lainey still couldn't comprehend how her mom and siblings all fit into his cramped apartment but she decided to let it slide.

The teens sat at the LaRusso dining table, Eli had brought it upon himself to try and make them both pancakes.

Lainey giggled as placed a large plate of pancakes in front of her for them to share. As Eli sat down and they began to share this plate of pancakes, Chozen entered the kitchen. He had been for his morning swim.

"Oh good morning," he said with a smile. "I wanted to apologise for what I almost saw yesterday..."

Lainey's eyes widened. "There was nothing to see, we were just taking a bath."

"A bath..." Chozen repeated.

"Genuinely. Just a bath."

"With Eli?" he asked.

"Yes."

"It's not that hard," Eli explained with a hint of embarrassment.

Lainey's face reddened as Chozen exited the room.

"I hope he doesn't tell my dad..." Lainey stated.

"I think your dad has bigger problems than us taking a bath together, princess."

"You're right." She inhaled. "God, am I selfish?" she asked.

Eli shook his head. "No."

"Are you sure?"

"Absolutely."

"Sometimes, I feel as though I live in my own little bubble and don't give a fuck about anyone else."