Joseph

*I stay out of sight behind the doorframe, listening to their conversation, not moving at all. My heart is racing, and my mind is whirling with thoughts. What is he talking about? What did his uncle do? I slide down the wall as quietly as I can, until I'm sitting on the floor, my mind reeling.*

*Joseph's voice is cold and distant* He is a kind man, but he is too naive to understand the truth. I cannot burden him with this. *He closes the folder and hands it back to the man* Keep this information safe. I will need it soon. *He sits there for a while, lost in thought, then stands up* I need to get back to him. He will be wondering where I am. *He walks out of the room, unaware that his husband has heard everything.*

*My heart is pounding in my chest, and I feel sick to my stomach. I'm trying to process everything I've just heard. I have so many questions, but I don't know if I should ask them. I can't help but feel like I've been lied to. I take a deep breath and try to calm myself down. I can't let him know that I've been listening. I can't let him know that I've heard everything. I have to act normal. I have to pretend like nothing is wrong.*

*He's on his knees on the lawn, laughing so hard he's wheezing. The mailman is backing away slowly, terrified.* Stop! *Joseph gasps, wiping tears from his eyes.* You're not the mailman! You're a very scary pineapple! *He tries to grab the man's ankle.* I need my pineapple mail!

*Joseph wheeled himself closer, his expression turning serious.* I know. *He looked up at you, his gaze unwavering.* But I can't let you do this, husband. This is my fight.

Ace: Brush your teeth, love *He carries him into the wheelchair*

Joseph: *He pouts, wrapping his arms tighter around Ace's neck.* But carrying me is so much warmer... *He gives in with a sigh.* Okay, but you have to help me brush!

Ace: Okay *He carries him to brush his teeth*