ehoiidoingthings

[ehoiidoingthings]

‘The Winds Have Changed’ (Part 5) Noodlemoon

Part 5.

Note: Let me know what you guys think of this story so far i.e. things you like, things you don't like, what you might want to see next like characters or what-not, etc. Enjoy this next part! c:

    "Thank you for taking the time to help me out today!" Buster hopped out of the real estate agent's car.

"Anytime, Mr. Moon! Your apartment should be ready to move in this time next week. I've contacted the landlord about some of the questions you had and he should get back to you about them in terms of discussing your security deposit." The skunk called out the window of her car.

"Alright," Buster was opening his theater's doors. "Thank you again! And have a good night, Margaret!"

"To you as well, Mr. Moon."

    Buster checked the clock and saw it was 5:12. Just enough time to get ready, Buster thought as he dashed up the stairs. He first decided to go to the bathroom the theater offered and take a shower since he had been rummaging around the city more than usual today. Furthermore, Buster felt the need to look extra tidy considering the restaurant they were going to tonight they never really dined at. And the fact it's with Eddie. Buster grinned at the thought of trying to make something of last night's incident. He was excited for this dinner because it was a chance to start trying something with Eddie. He undressed and began to run the water for his shower. Once he stepped into the warm spray he suddenly realized how tense he had been. He let his fur soak up the moisture and allowed the water to run all over him. As he reached for the shampoo he began to sing a happy tune.

    "So-me day, when I'm awfully low~ When the world is cold~ I will feel a glow, just thinking o-f you," he began running his fingers through his fur, "and the way you look, tonight~ ♫"

    Buster hummed the next part and he went about washing and cleansing his face.

    "With each wor-d, your tenderness grows~"

    He grabbed the brush he kept in the shower for getting dirt out of his coat and used it as a microphone.

    "Tearing my fears, apa-rt!"

    He brushed through his coat some time before rinsing off.

    "And that laugh! That wrinkles your no-se~"

    Buster shut the shower off and hooped out. He dramatically grabbed a towel and wrapped himself in it as a prima donna would.

    "It touches my foolish hear-t~ ♫"

    He continued singing as he went over to the sink and started to blow-dry himself. Once he was completely dried, he put on another suit while still humming and singing the accompaniment to the Sinatra song.

    "Love-ly, never ever change, keep that breathless charm~ Won't you please arrange it?"

    He paused a moment to decide on the color of suit since he had purchased others since the theater's reopening. He decided to be fancy and chose an all black suit, white shirt and black bow-tie. He looked in the mirror of the bathroom. Classy, Buster mused. He finished the look by taking a small amount of fur-gel and did his usual neat, upright style. He took once last look in the mirror before turning away to his office to grab his bag.

    As he headed downstairs to the front of the theater to wait for Eddie, he sang out, "Just the way you look, to-night~ ♫"

    Expecting Eddie to be late, Buster didn't stress when he saw it was already 6:05. Guess I got carried away with my song, Buster thought happily. At least I look real good. His confidence was sky high. He even had silver cufflinks for the night; and of course they were in the shape of crescent moons. He opened the doors and turned to lock them. However, when he exited the theater he saw Eddie in his car awaiting the Koala.

    "Oh! Eddie, you're here already." He said.

    His ears dropped a little as he realized he had made the sheep wait on him. He quickly locked the doors and ran over to the car.

    "Yeah, been so for ten minutes but don't worry about it." Eddie put the car in drive.

    He didn't seem mad but Buster was angry at himself. Goddammit, Buster thought; his ears fell a little more.

    Eddie must've noticed because he said, "Hey, I don't care that you're late. You are always waiting on me anyway so I guess I owe you this."

"Alright, thanks." Buster was feeling better after his comment.

Eddie looked over and commented, "I also see why you're late. You look nice tonight, Buster."

    Buster looked away and flushed at the comment made.

    Before he could give one back Eddie started to babble saying, "I-I mean, you look good all the time! Like, I don't know, you just look extra good tonight. Uh, I mean... Whatever, you look good is what I'm saying."

Buster laughed at his display. "Why thank you, Eddie! I did spruce it up tonight considering we are actually eating there tonight. Can't be looking like my usual self at that place." He adjusted his bow-tie.

    Buster looked over Eddie and saw that he, too, dressed up with black slacks that tapered down, a burgundy jacket and a white dress shirt. Buster noticed the top two buttons were undone which gave Eddie a cool look. He also noticed that Eddie had gotten his wool cut and groomed so it made a cleaner version of what he normally wore.

    His throat clenched a bit as he spoke. "Y-you look good tonight as well, Eddie. I like the cut you got for your wool."

The sheep accepted the compliment but with slightly less enthusiasm than the marsupial expected with, "Thanks."

    The remainder of the ride was brutally silent for the two men. Buster just looked off while Eddie looked intent on driving. The koala had never seen Eddie so serious before and, in all honestly, it kinda scared him to see Eddie like this. Fortunately, the ride was short and the awkward atmosphere between them dwindled as they pulled up to the curb for the valet to take their car. Buster stepped out of the car and took a moment to catch up with Eddie who had been racing to the door. Buster was confused why he didn't wait for him but nonetheless jogged up to him. They entered the fancy squid-themed building and were greeted by a host.

    "Six o'clock reservation for two." Eddie said, his ears falling a bit as one hand went to grab his arm in self-consciousness.

"The name, sir?" The chimpanzee asked.

"N-Noodleman."

"Yes, a waiter will come seat you."

    Another chimp came over with menus. He looked at Buster and furrowed his brows. He recognized the koala and Buster, in turn, recognized him.

    "Let's see here, no lunch box or posters... Are you two actually eating here tonight or are you going to waste the staff's time again?" he harshly said.

Eddie was about to say something but Buster spoke first. "Yes, we are 'actually eating here tonight', good sir. If you want a good tip then please have us seated, if you would."

    Buster didn't like being rude but he knew when to defend himself when someone tried treating him unfairly. Eddie raised his brows at the smaller male's display of authority.

    The waiter sighed. "Right this way then, gentleman."

    They were seated next to a wall this time in the back corner of the restaurant. It was a booth seat which the both of them were grateful for. They sat across each other as usual and, once the chimp had set down their menus, they began browsing their options that they had seen before but never really acted upon. Buster looked up from his menu and saw Eddie had his head on one of his hands. Wonder what's got to him tonight. Buster tried to lighten the mood with small talk.

    "So, you see anything you like? Got a drink in mind?"

"Uh, not yet. I mean, I like cucumber water." Eddie said as he flipped the menu's pages.

"Cucumber water? We're out to eat at a fancy restaurant and that's what you what? I'd think more of a champagne type of evening..." Buster trailed off as he saw Eddie wince at the mention of champagne.

    Must not have that much money, he thought.

    "Well, I guess cucumber water is good. I'll get some 'strawberry infused sparkling water'. Gosh, why does everything have to be so long winded? Just tell me it's carbonated water with some fruit slices in it for God's sake."

    Buster noticed Eddie chuckle a bit behind his menu at his mini rant. Buster smiled at Eddie's reaction because he knew he at least was making whatever Eddie was worried about a lesser burden by distracting him this way. Buster went on another tangent about how the restaurant doesn't pay their squid entertainment enough while stifling their creativity and that's why most of the restaurant's employees went to his theater. Towards the end of it a waiter came with three kinds of breads and butter for them alongside an olive oil dip. They each tried the different combinations and chatted about the ones they liked and disliked. The same waiter who seated them came to the table. He got out a notepad and pen and asked them what they would like to drink.

    "The strawberry infused sparkling water for myself, thank you." Buster said cheerfully.

"Uh, just some cucumber water. Thanks." Eddie replied, the normal tone back in his voice.

The waiter jotted down the drinks. "Would you like an appetizer tonight?"

    Buster looked at Eddie for him to decide.

    The sheep looked back confused and shook his head before saying, "No, we should be good. The bread here is great anyway."

The chimp closed his book. "I'll get those drinks out right away, gentleman."

"Thank you!" Buster called after him.

    He heard a snort from across the table.

    "Surprised you didn't say 'merci'."

Buster laughed. "Well, I mean, someone told me to say otherwise."

"Glad you listened to them for once." Eddie chuckled.

    Buster gave a huff of a laugh and opened his menu to look through it. He kept Eddie's reaction to his champagne comment earlier in mind and kept to the cheaper options. Well, as cheap as they could be which was around $20 per meal at minimum. What was I expecting? Buster thought. Of course it's all so damn expensive; why the hell would it not be? Buster blew out some air and flipped some more pages. He came to their dinner salad section and browsed until he found something that looked good to eat. Although he was evolved from his ancestors, he still had a vegetarian diet that required some attention to else he would have a sick stomach. He decided on a berry and nut salad with hearty leaves and a choice of dressing. He also noticed it was a $35 dinner. I'll offer to pay for it. When he was going to tell Eddie his decision, the sheep spoke rather rushed.

    "Buster, uh, I-I'm going to go to the bathroom."

Buster was a little dumbfounded by his eagerness to go but just replied, "Uh, okay Eddie. Go ahead."

    Eddie just almost jumped out of his seat to go and had a worried look on his face. Buster almost chased after him but decided not to and that he probably needed a moment. So Buster just sat back into he booth with his fingers tapping on the menu. The waiter was back.

    "Have you both decided on your meals?"

Buster just looked to the bathroom doors. "Uh. no, we haven't. My companion is busy right now but should be back."

    The chimp shuffled off while Buster mumbled an apology.

    Meanwhile, Eddie was almost having a panic in the Bathroom stall. It was just him and a toilet and he felt like his chest was collapsing on him. The night had been leading up to this moment. From the moment he walked into that restaurant with Buster, as soon as he exited his car, he saw eyes on him and the smaller male. Eyes that were saying 'what a cute couple.' At first he tried ignoring it, tried enjoying his time with Buster. But as the night progressed, he couldn't help but notice the looks and the judgment and embarrassment he felt. While Buster had been flipping through the menu, he noticed so many things about the koala; the way his ears perked up and down while he read, the twitching of his nose, how he would flicker his tongue out when he was in thought, the furrow of his brows. Eddie had caught himself looking t the marsupial and couldn't help but find him in the slightest way charming like his Nana had said before. And that's when Eddie started to panic because he couldn't believe what he was thinking about his friend. That's right, Edward James Noodleman; friend! Eddie couldn't help the fact he was feeling this way. He was so conflicted about what this dinner was turning out to be. He partly blamed his grandmother for putting such thoughts into his head. He wouldn't be thinking this way if only she hadn't been so pressed on even putting the idea there. He groaned and leaned his back against the wall of the bathroom stall. He felt sick, he felt sick since Buster mentioned champagne. As is Eddie needed any more alcohol ruining his life. C'mon, you're being over dramatic. He just wants to have dinner with you! You never cared before having dinner with him this much before now have you? Eddie gave a sigh and gave in. You can do this, just finish the dinner and stop thinking about those cute little things he does. Like fixing his fur, fidgeting with his bow-tie, how he talks with a smile... He exited the stall and walked over to the silver, marble surfaced sinks. He splashed some water onto his face and dried it with a cloth which he emptied into the restaurant's wash bin. He jogged in place for a bit; a usual way of prepping himself with his life coach.

    "Okay, Eddie; you got this!" He spoke to himself in the mirror.

    He straightened his jacket and smoothed his pants before walking out the bathroom.

    Buster had his head in one hand while the other twirled a silver fork between his fingers. He had his ears in a dropped position while his body leaned over the table. Maybe it's something I did. I mean, I've been playing it quite safe tonight I feel... Buster heard someone approaching and figured it was the waiter again.when he was about to dismiss him, Eddie came into view again. Buster perked up and sat in his usual enthusiastic way.

    "Back I see." Buster said, happy Eddie was looking slightly better than before.

Eddie rubbed the back of his neck. "Yeah, just got lightheaded is all."

"Oh, I see. Anything I can do to help?" Buster offered.

Eddie shook his head. "Not much to be done in all honesty but I'm fine now."

    He gave a smile but Buster could tell it wasn't genuine. He didn't comment on it and just decided to let Eddie be. For the third time, the waiter showed up again.

    "Now, gentleman, do you know what you want to eat?" He seemed a little impatient and Buster couldn't blame him.

Buster made quick work of his order. "Yes, I'll take the 'Island Salad' with a cream-cheese base dressing. I do not want a side. Thank you."

The waiter scratched down what Buster said while asking Eddie, "And for you, sir?"

Eddie paused a moment before flipping to a page to say, "A vegetable garden burger, no pickle. Cheddar on that and a side of fresh greens. Thanks."

    They handed him their menus and he promptly strode off to put the orders in. Buster sat with his hands in each other atop the table with a smile while Eddie had his hands in his lap with a more anxious expression that he tried his best to conceal. Buster just awkwardly looked around the restaurant until he couldn't bear the silence between them. Buster sat up in his seat and scooted forward until he was on the edge. He placed his elbows on the table and was getting ready to talk with his hands as he usually does for emphasis. Eddie looked up when he noticed Buster's set tone.

    "Eddie, what's going on with you?"

Eddie sat up. "What do you mean?"

"You've been quiet all night, barely talking to me. Not one moment of a genuine smile or any kind of eye-contact. I just want to know; what is bothering you?" Buster was serious and placed his hands flat on the table.

Eddie could feel the back of his neck get hot. "Uh, nothing's wrong."

Buster was getting impatient with the answers that dodged any real conversation.

"Eddie, please talk to me. I know something's eating at you. You've been on edge all night-"

"Dude, I'm fine!" Eddie smacked a hoof against the table. He basically yelled the last part as he interrupted Buster. The restaurant fell quiet after Eddie's outburst. The sheep settled back into his seat, ears falling at his display. He watched as Buster hopped out of his seat and began heading for the entrance of the building. Eddie took a moment to collect himself before realizing Buster was walking away.

"Where're you going?" Eddie called after him.

    The koala didn't reply as he opened the front door and headed out. Eddie panicked and jumped from the booth and ran after Buster. When he came to the door, he was halted by the chimpanzee who had been serving them.

    "You think you're going to dine and dash? I'll have you know-"

"Shut the hell up, man!" Eddie was too frantic to deal with this right now. "Here!" He pushed the chimp aside and shoved $300 into his hands and bolted out the door.

    He looked left and right and saw Buster speed walking on the right sidewalk. He ran to the valet booth.

    "Where's my car? I need my car now!"

    The valet looked scared at Eddie's crazed state and hastily mumbled into his radio for a fellow employee to bring his car around. Eddie ran up to the vehicle and almost threw the man out of it. Again, he shoved a $100 bill into the guy's hand.

    "Thank guys!" He yelled to them as he sped off down the street to catch up to Buster.

    For short legs, man, that guy can walk fast, Eddie thought. But it was little to no time when he caught up to the marsupial.

    "Buster!" He called after him. "Buster, I'm sorry!"

    He pulled his car almost to the curb and, when he noticed that the koala had no intention of stopping, he slowly drove alongside him. Eddie drove a bit more, thinking about what he was going to say next, wondering why Buster had stormed out like he did.

    He decided on apologizing some more by saying, "Look, I'm sorry I embarrassed you like that. I was immature and I was letting my emotions get between having a good night with you!"

    Buster stopped walking and Eddie parked. The smaller male had his ears back which, to Eddie, was never a good sign.

    "It's not just about embarrassing me, Eddie! Like, where do you get talking to me like that? Huh? I was just trying to help you." He finished the last part of his sentence with a bit of a choke.

    He looked at the sheep and shook his head and continued his march down the street. At this point Eddie could understand why Buster was angry at him. He had been terrible company throughout the night and, rather than talk to Buster, just gave him the cold shoulder for no reason. After all, this is you making up for your fuck up, Eddie thought. His ears and face fell more. Because you couldn't just act normal. Because you couldn't be honest. You had to go and treat your best friend like shit because you couldn't handle the responsibility of your actions. You just hurt him more. And now he's walking away... Eddie put the car into park and sat there. He was ashamed. How could I do this to him? He put his arms across the steering wheel and buried his face into them. He doesn't deserve that, especially not from you. Not from your dumb-ass... He started to shake. More thoughts ran through his head. His mind became clouded with all the thoughts about how unfair he had been to Buster. About how he was a real shit for doing this to him. He didn't know what to do. Buster was long gone by now and Eddie didn't know where to begin with it all. He quickly became overwhelmed and felt helpless to it all. So he did the only thing he knew how to; he started to cry. He felt his face burn with each tear that fell down his snout. He made little noise but could feel the heat radiating in him and the amount of shaking his body was doing.

    At that moment, Eddie felt a small tap on his left shoulder. He peeked from over his arm to the side of his car. Buster was standing there with his hands fidgeting .

    "I, um..." Buster started.

    He rocked back and forth on his feet. Eddie just slumped into his own arms.

    Buster tried again.

    "Could I catch a ride home, Eddie?"

Eddie mumbled from his coat sleeve, "Sure."

    The koala walked around the car onto the other side and Eddie straightened himself. Buster took the passenger seat. Eddie miserably put the car into drive and pulled away from the curb. This time, the quiet ride home was definitely an uncomfortable silence. Buster and Eddie both had solemn looks and avoided any kind of eye contact or inclination of the other's company. Buster sat there with his head lowered, trying to make himself as small as possible. He was upset about the dinner and disappointed in himself that he let Eddie's outburst get to him. How he just walked out on him like that. But again, he also felt as though, no matter what, he had to maintain his own pride. This is all so confusing, Buster sighed as he thought. It started out kinda good, now here we are. Before he could delve deeper into thought, the car stopped and Buster realized they were at his theater. Eddie pulled to the side and parked the car, expectant Buster would leave.

    When the koala didn't, Eddie just said, "We're at your theater."

Buster sat there still and replied, "I know."

    The two sat uncomfortably. The thought of the night just going through their minds. Eddie started to speak when it became minutes of this silence.

    "Look, I really am sorry-"

Buster interjected. "No, I'm sorry. I shouldn't have walked out. Shouldn't have even suggested this night-"

"But it's my fault it's like this!" Eddie looked at Buster.

"It's my fault for being a dick, I'm sorry. I really am. I wanted this night to be good and I, Buster, I am so sorry."

    Eddie couldn't help it anymore. He was too afraid to say what he wanted, about the fear of the kiss, about other people looking fondly at them, how he fondly looked at Buster. What Nana said, what he had said to Buster.

    So all Eddie could say was, "I'm sorry for everything." And he slumped into the car seat.

Buster's ears perked at his statement. "This whole night isn't your fault, Eddie." Buster turned to him. "It was just an off day."

"No, it wasn't." Eddie replied. "Me and my stupid self just couldn't deal with the guilt of it all. I'm so sorry. I should've just been honest with you. Buster, I'm sorry."

    Buster was perplexed. Is he talking about that night? Rather than ask, he tried driving Eddie to say it.

    "Eddie, what are you so sorry about? It was just a bad night tonight-"

"Not tonight, Buster!" Eddie sounded almost desperate as he looked to him. "I'm sorry I went after you. I'm sorry I basically assaulted you." Eddie gave a heavy sigh and looked towards the road. "I should've just apologized for kissing you, man. Yet, I decided to lie and try to make it up to you and ended up acting this way tonight. I'm really, really sorry I did that. I'm sorry I freaked you out."

    Buster was about to stop him but he kept talking. So listen Buster decided to do and let him finish.

    "Like, I didn't want to say it because I just wanted to forget about it. I wanted to have our friendship just continue like it was and have no issues. I didn't want you to think differently of me because I screwed up. But I guess I just made things worse by over thinking it all." Eddie leaned his chin on his arms crossed on the steering wheel.

    When he didn't speak, Buster decided Eddie was done with his speech. He reached a law over and touched Eddie's arm.

    "Hey. You know what? It's okay. I'm glad you told me, Eddie. Thank you." Buster said to him.

    Eddie still looked glum so Buster moved closer to him.

    "I-I don't think any less of you, Eddie. You're still the same person now as you were before. Although, I can't say nothing has changed..." Buster felt his stomach flip from the anxiety forming in his chest. Despite this, he pushed along. "I do think of you differently, but not in a bad way." Buster felt his voice give a slight shake.

Eddie looked over to him. He saw Buster fidgeting again.

He asked, "Differently how? How can you think of me not in a bad way?"

Buster swallowed before continuing. "Well, you see..." Don't stop. "When you kissed me, when you were saying all those lovely things to me, it made me think... Could you really be interested in me?"

"Buster, it's not like that-" Eddie started but Buster stopped him.

"And then I asked myself, 'could I really be interested in him?'"

    Buster got even closer to Eddie, now officially violating his personal space. Eddie opened his mouth, his eyes becoming wide at Buster' s remarks. Buster stood up on the seat so he was level with Eddie. Before Eddie could even muster a response, Buster leaned in close to his face. So much so the sheep could feel his heat and breath.

    The koala said, softly and carefully to him, despite his heart ready to beat out of his chest, "And I told myself, 'yes, I really am interested in him.'"

    Before Eddie could react, Buster took hold of his face. He caressed the side of him with the other hand and drew the sheep to him. Buster, despite the anxiety, the shaking, and worry, brought Eddie's face to him and kissed him. Buster, unlike the last time, reveled in how the other's mouth molded to his own. It was electric. Buster felt the adrenaline building up within in him like a sweet tingling sensation he couldn't control of he wanted to. He couldn't help but run the hand on Eddie's face down to on his jacket lapel and rest on his chest. Buster had closed his eyes, he wanted to feel nothing but the raw touch of the other man against him. He had thought about this, the fantasy of kissing Eddie again all throughout the day. However, the kiss had to end and so did the fantasy. Buster drew back from Eddie, his lidded eyes open again. He realized his hands on the other and drew them back as if it burned to touch him. He moved back, away from his object of desire. He looked at Eddie and saw that the sheep had raised eyebrows, open eyes and a half open mouth. Buster would've thought it cute to see the sheep in such a state but all he felt was fear. The both of them were breathing heavy. Eddie wasn't talking and Buster felt a panic begin to rise in him. Run, run away, Buster thought.

He was entering flight mode and was about to reach for the car door handle when Eddie said a surprised, "Um, okay." Eddie looked over Buster. "Okay, so that happened."

Buster tried catching his breath and replied lamely, "Yeah, that really did happen."

    He gave a nervous laugh to hide how scared he was of what Eddie would do. Eddie wasn't talking and Buster didn't want to either. Again, they were silent for another moment. Bust fidgeted some more. He decided to let Eddie decide on his own time what to do.

Not knowing what else to say, Buster managed to Eddie, "Well, uh, I'll see you around, Eddie. Goodnight." He felt a hot wash of shame go over his face as he talked.

    Buster turned and exited the car. He was thankful to have his back to Eddie so the larger mammal wouldn't be able to see his embarrassment mixed with disappointment at Eddie's reaction to his kiss. Was it not good? Am I not good enough?

    As Buster headed to the theater doors, Eddie said quietly to him, "Yeah... Night."

    Eddie watched as Buster unlocked the theater and headed inside. When the koala was out of sight, Eddie pulled away from the curb and drove home for the night. Both men were left with a sick feeling of uncertainty, confusion, and mainly a lingering sense of emptiness.

[ehoiidoingthings]

‘The Winds Have Changed’ (Part 4) Noodlemoon

Part 4.

Note: Hooray for another update!

    Eddie awoke rather lazily. He somehow managed to make it to his couch to sleep the night rather than his own bed. No matter; the sheep slept comfortably enough. He stretched his body across the comfortable surface and rolled over. He tried going back to sleep but the urge to use the bathroom overwhelmed him and so he got up. Once risen from the couch, Eddie experienced a massive head rush and placed a hoof to his temple. Yup, going to need painkillers for that, he thought. He headed to the kitchen and browsed his medicine cabinet until he found them. After addressing the morning hangover, Eddie made a breakfast of oatmeal and assorted fruits with complimentary orange juice. He never really cared for cooking, but living on his own made him learn more about it and the more he was forced to do it, the more he enjoyed it; primarily because he was actually creating edible dishes now. Once he was done, he sat down and began to eat. While doing so, Eddie tried thinking about the events of the night before. He and Buster had hung out and played games, had dinner, picked a movie, had made himself a really good cocktail... and that's about it, he thought. Nothing exciting. He had thought he remembered an intimate moment, as if he had kissed someone but he brushed the thought aside and figured it was just a thought he had the night before. He took another bite. As the sleepy hazed brushed to the side, more memories began to come back to him. He remembered Buster leaving in a rush. Like he was scared of something... Eddie shook his head; why would Buster be afraid? It was just the two of them. Maybe something with the bank... Eddie wracked his brain. No, Buster in financially stable now... Another bite of oatmeal.That's right, we talked about his bachelor status. Eddie grinned at the thought of teasing Buster about being single. He took another bite of his meal. Maybe he was afraid of me asking about such personal things? I mean, I'm no stud either. Another bite. Oh yeah, I asked him about liking guys. Probably made the poor guy nervous, Eddie recalled his actions while in his drunken state. Always thought Buster had a thing for guys and girls, never thought he was a full out queer. Then again, I guess not many people would guess the same about me. Eddie mused about his romantic life. He really did miss having a partner, a boyfriend. His mind went back to Buster. He again scooped some oatmeal onto his spoon and took a bite. He is really cute... Eddie spat out the mouthful of oatmeal and choked on the last bit of it. He stood up from the kitchen island and beat his chest to help cough out the rest of the oatmeal remnants.

    "Oh my God..." Eddie held a hoof to his mouth and began tapping the other feverishly against the island's top.

"Oh my God, oh my God ohmyGod..."

    Eddie began to hold his head in his hands. He let out a multitude of curses as he remembered last night. He remembered why Buster left in a frightened state.

    "Shit, how am I going to make it up to him for that?"

    Buster and Johnny had been perusing the impressive bike shop. Buster was overwhelmed with all the different brands and models he didn't know where to start. Johnny had gone over to where the skateboards were held which left Buster to browse on his own. Buster decided to narrow down his selection by talking to an employee, a gazelle.

    "Yes, excuse me sir, but do you have any bikes with fitted pedals for individuals of my size?"

    The gazelle swung himself over th counter and had a rugged look to him. He looked at the koala like he hadn't heard what he said and when Buster was about to speak again, he was cut off.

    "Yeah, I'll take you to them." The gazelle swaggered in front of him and started walking. Buster suddenly became very thankful of the teens he worked with. Meena, Ash and Johnny (until two months ago) were never so aloof with him. Buster was led to rows of bikes that had fitted pedals to accommodate his short legs. One by one, he hopped onto them and tested out how the bikes fit him. When he came to one that he especially liked, he rode it for a bit in the back parking lot and brought it to the front of the store to be checked out.

    "I think this one will do!" Buster said enthusiastically.

  The gazelle was looking in a separate direction trying on hid phone. Buster gave a cough. The teen was slow to be brought back to type on the computer the serial number for the bike. Buster tapped his fingers impatiently against the side of the bike. Finally, the teen looked up again from the screen.

    "That'll be eight-hundred and fifty-two dollars and some change."

    Buster shook his head at the gazelle saying 'and some change' and fished for his debit card.

    "Here you go." Buster said and he handed over the card.

    Bikes are expensive these days, he thought. But he really liked the look and model of the bike so he didn't mind spending a little extra for it. Plus it came with a warranty, so that was a bonus. The gazelle handed him back his card and a copy of his receipt to sign. As he was signing he heard Johnny telling the worker he was with the have a good day. Once Buster was done with the transaction Johnny came over and whistled.

    "That's a fine lookin' bike there, Buster!"

"Glad you agree, Johnny! Spent a little more than I normally would but, hey, we all have to splurge at some point!" He gave the bike seat a rub.

"Yea, you bet!" Johnny run his hands over the framework and handles.

    Buster turned his attention to the gazelle.

    "Thank you, sir." He said a little awkwardly whilst giving a slight wave and turning away with the bike.

"No problem dude." He replied while on his phone again.

    Johnny and Buster exited the shop and headed back to the same bus stop.

    "Did you find what you were looking for?" Buster asked the gorilla.

"Yea, there were right kind bout' 'elping me, too! Put the trucks in and even replaced the paper of my board as well!" Johnny looked satisfied with his visit.

"Sounds like a good time. I unfortunately had to deal with that teenager. He wasn't much help; just kinda stood there on his phone and shrugged his shoulders when I asked him something."

"It did seem rather quiet over there with the two of you."

    They arrived at the bus stop when Buster got an idea.

    "Hey, how far away are we from the theater?"

The gorilla tapped his fingers. "bout' ten miles I'd say."

Buster thought a bit more.

"If you don't mind I think I'm going to test this cruiser out for a bit." He patted the bike.

"No, I don't mind at all. Have fun with it! And don't get hit by a car or anythin'!"

Buster laughed. "I'll make sure to keep that in mind!"

    He hopped onto the bike seat and waved goodbye as he sped down the street. Although Buster was wobbly at first, he soon fell back into the familiar motions of biking; shifting his weight, timing his pedaling, braking at turns. It was an enjoyable experience riding the streets once again for the koala. Once he returned home to the theater, he set to work about scheduling an appointment with a real-estate agent and called until he found one that would book the rest of the day with him; not that that was hard considering he was the Buster Moon.

    "Yeah, 2:45 should work!" Buster said on the phone. He was leaned back in his chair and twisted a finger through the cords. "Oh, You'll be providing a ride? Sounds lovely! I'll see you then! Thank you!"

    Right when he hung up his work phone his personal cellphone started to chirp with an incoming call. Buster looked at his phone and saw that it was Eddie trying to reach him. There was a moment of panic that flung through him like a rip tide. For a moment, Buster contemplated just declining the call there but then decided that would be immature. He decided to overcome his anxiety and pick up the phone.

    "Hello?" He said, wishing someone else would answer.

"Heyyy Buster... How's it going?" The sheep said, sounding a little uncomfortable.

"It's going good, and you?" He said, leaning a bit on his desk and trying his best to not sound awkward.

"Yeah man, same here. I, uh, you want anything?"

    Buster was now definitely confused by the sheep.

"What do you mean?"

"Like, uh, a car or like, I don't know, a new desk..." Eddie's voice broke a bit.

"Uhh, no, Eddie, I'm fine. Plus your Nana refurbished the office, so... Thanks for the random, er, generosity though."

    There was a moment of silence between the two. Buster ran a hand over his pant-leg to remove the sweat that had formed on his palm. Eddie broke the silence.

    "Uh, okay, just let me know if you, ya know, want anything."

"I'll keep that in mind, Eddie. Thank you."

    Buster knew he was running away from the situation. Here Eddie was, his forming object of desire. But he didn't know what to say or ask without sounding creepy or obvious. Something was bothering Eddie, though, and Buster instincts as his close friend overrode his bearing thoughts.

    "Is there something you want, Eddie? Do you need me for anything?"

     A pause.

    "Uh, no. No, just wandering if my good friend Buster needs anything or wants anything."

"Okay Eddie, just checking in."

    Buster was about hang up the phone when he thought of something. Something incredibly stupid.

    "Hey, want to know what I need, Eddie?"

"Uh, yeah, what is it?" It sounded as though Eddie was relieved about something.

"I could use a really good dinner is what I could use."

"Alright man, do you want to meet at that restaurant we always met at but never actually ate at?"

    Buster laughed at the statement. That sounds more like Eddie.

"Sounds good to me. What time?"

"Whatever is best for you."

"Alright, sounds like a plan. Set a nice reservation for six, would you?"

"Alright, I got it."

"See you at six."

"You too."

    Buster hung up the phone and placed it back into his jacket's inner pocket. Although he was nervous, Buster was also excited to have dinner with Eddie. The phone call had eradicated any fear Buster had of the two hanging out since getting the awkward bit out of the way was now done. He looked out his office window and walked over to let some air in. When he looked to the street below, he saw a sleek black car out front and a skunk in a suit waiting outside it. Buster checked the time and ran down to meet the lady while not believing it was 2:48 already.

    "Hey, uh, sorry about the wait. I didn't mean to keep such a nice lady waiting! Especially one that freed her after noon for little ol' me." Buster said to the skunk apologetically. He was hoping his charm would eradicate any negative feelings she might have towards him.

"It's no problem, Mr. Moon! I wasn't waiting long. Are you ready to start browsing? I already have some locations in mind for you!" She opened the passenger side door for him.

"Sounds absolutely lovely, my dear!" He hopped into the car and they drove off.

"Boy am I a goddamn moron." Eddie slammed his head against the couch cushion.

     He moped some more after he ended the phone call with Buster and thought over what had happened. Why did I say that? Did I really think he would just let me... Why I am I so dumb? It would've been easier to just apologize for what happened. Now I have to go to dinner with the guy... Eddie just realized it wasn't any dinner; it was an expensive dinner. A dinner he didn't have money for. Eddie wasn't living paycheck by paycheck and had some wiggle room, but he couldn't afford to pay over a hundred dollars on a meal for two. I did tell him whatever he wanted. I was so desperate to even offer to buy him a car. Nana wouldn't have liked to have heard about that. Eddie shot up from the couch.

   "Nana!"

    Eddie made quick work to freshen himself up. He chose a jacket and sped out the door to his car. He engine ignited and he sped out of the parking lot towards his grandmothers house. He would usually call his grandmother to let her know he was coming but the situation was too dire to waste time in a phone call when he could just talk to her and try his best to get the money for the night. He hoped she would understand since he never once asked her for money before seeing it as extremely rude to try and make a buck off of her retirement funds (no matter how excessive they were). He became nervous at the prospect of asking Nana for money but decided to take the risk because she had become softer, well, as soft as a women of her stature could be, after the rebuilding of the theater and the fact she was able to go see shows there whenever she wanted. Nana also loved helping out directing the cast from time to time and suggesting shows to Buster. And Buster always put on a show Nana wanted to see. Buster is such a good guy, Eddie thought as he remembered how excited his grandmother looked when she first heard Buster was putting on one of her favorite musicals. He pulled into the elaborate parking space in front of the mansion and rung the doorbell. He heard the butler through the speaker.

    "Welcome to the Noodleman estate currently housed by Nana Noodleman. May I ask who is looking to visit today?"

Eddie pressed the intercom's button and spoke. "Hey Aaron, it's Eddie. I have to speak to my Nana for a bit."

"Of course, sir." The gate was opened and Eddie walked up the steps to the waiting open door.

    The penguin closed the door after him as he entered. He was used to his nana walking down the steps for his arrival but saw she wasn't there.

    "Your grandmother is taking a moment to get ready, sir. Would you like anything while you wait? A seat? Refreshment?" The penguin offered.

"Uh, no, I'm good where I am but thank you." Eddie stood awkwardly at the entrance.

    Aaron never had really asked Eddie if he needed anything because he was usually busy being scolded by his grandmother at this point.

"As you will, sir."

    So the two stood still at the entrance. Eddie began tapping his foot lightly against the marble and started to whistle softly. Just when the silence was about to become unbearable, a sight of purple caught his eyes and he looked up. Nana had begum walking down the steps and was still tying her headband unto her wool.

    "Oh, it's just my grandson! Gosh, I thought it was someone actually important..."

    Eddie just sighed at the usual comments.

    "Hey, Nana. How are you doing?" Eddie walked towards the spiral staircase.

"Perfectly fine until I rushed to become presentable. Should've called, Eddie, to let your poor grandmother know to not worry." She booped him on the nose with her fan.

Eddie just slightly rubbed the spot and replied, "Well, I was in bit of a rush and just decided to come over and talk about it-"

"And talk about what exactly?" She said, cutting him off, as she started walking to one of many side rooms.

    Eddie followed behind her.

"Uh, well, uh..." Eddie didn't know whether to tell the truth or to just lie about the situation.

     I can't lie to her; she is my nana! Well, I guess I don't have to tell the whole truth...

    "Stop blubbering child and just spit it out! I like that color on you, by the way; red suits you nicely." She seated herself on a plush chair and Eddie sat in the one across from her. Aaron had come back with tea and biscuit spread and placed it on the coffee table and exited the room, closing the doors behind him.

"Well, I'm kinda in a situation..." Eddie said. He could feel the beginning of the embarrassment forming to a point where his grandmother's statement washed over him.

"Oh, and here I thought you actually just wanted to see me!" Nana took a sip of tea.

"C'mon, Nana. You know I love you despite your, um, harsh ways."

    Nana smiled behind her tea mug.

    "I love you too, dear." She took a sip. "So, go ahead and talk to me about your situation." She waved a hand at him.

    Eddie took a gulp. He sat rather stiff with his legs together and hands folded trying his best to look respectable.

    "Well, I kinda promised someone I would take them out to a nice dinner. And, well, I haven't really got the money for it now." He looked at his grandmother expecting a response. Since she remained silent Eddie continued. "I've never once asked money from you, Nana, and, believe me, I feel really bad about asking and I promise to make it up to you in any way I can after the fact. It's just, I'm in a hard place right now and can't afford such a fancy place to take him-" Eddie closed his mouth when he realized he said 'him'.

"Oh! A man I see. Always knew you were a little queer boy. Helped raise you right then." Nana chuckled at her own form of humor.

Eddie turned red. "Oh, no no no, it's not like that."

    Nana sat up strait.

    "Do not lie to me Edward James Noodelman!" She did a dramatic close of her fan.

    I guess I'm being forced into a lie.

    "Uh, okay. Yeah, I'm going on a date with a guy tonight. Ya know, wanted to impress him and all that." Eddie felt the heat in his face and looked away. He then panicked. "Nana, please don't mention it to anyone, okay?"

Nana settled back into her chair. "I won't dear. How much do you think you'll need? You'll also need a haircut. Good lord boy, that wool is far too long."

"Uh-" Before Eddie could come up with a number, Nana called for Aaron to bring her 'pocket-book'.

    Nana fished out some hundred dollar bills.

    "You're right Eddie, you've never asked money from me so enjoy the extra. You needn't pay me back."

"Aw, thanks Nana-" As he reached for the bills Nana quickly drew her arm back.

"You can get them on one account, though."

    Oh, great.

    "And what would that be, Nana?"

    Nana leaned close to Eddie.

    "Who is the lucky guy?"

    Eddie's heart stopped. He instinctively brought his shoulders up in defense. He opened his mouth but words weren't forming. Shit, didn't think this through. His nana pressed on despite his panic.

"Is it another sheep? Are they a larger or smaller animal? How old is he? Don't date snakes, dear, they're a mess. My goodness Eddie, you need some water? You're sweating an awful lot-" Nana halted her inquiries.

    Eddie looked at her confused as he tried to think of a bachelor in his mind. Nana noticed Eddie's discomfort and began thinking as to why her grandson would be so uncomfortable. Nana had a look of bewilderment on her face and she covered her mouth with a hoof.

    "Edward. Goodness! Isn't he, well, isn't he a little old for you?"

Eddie was in panic mode now. "W-what do you mean? Who? Who's too old for me?"

Nana stood up and started walking around the room. "Well, I mean, he is rather charming if I do say so myself. And he is hygienic; always look so well groomed and refreshed. And you two have been around each other a while. I mean, I guess it could work. How old is he anyway? Can't be too much, certainly doesn't look it."

    Eddie was listening to Nana speak and was trying so hard to not believe she was thinking the same person he was.

    He desperately asked, "Nana! Who are you talking about?"

    Nana turned around and looked directly at Eddie, closing her fan once again.

    "Why, that koala; Buster Moon!"

Eddie's throat closed as he heard the name he feared spoken aloud.

"Nana! No, it's not-"

    It was too late. Nana was already walking out of the room. She shoved the bills to Eddie as he frantically followed after her and almost knocked him over.

"Nana please-"

"There you are, Eddie. Now go and enjoy your evening with Mr. Moon. If he even tries doing anything devilish with you though..." She spun around far quicker than any women her age should be able to and pointed the fan at Eddie's face. "I'll personally see to it he doesn't have a theater anymore."

"Uh, Nana-"

"Have a good night, Eddie. Let me know how it goes when you visit me next Wednesday!" She started up the stairs.

Eddie quietly says, "Nana..." before giving up on it.

    He turns to leave and hears her call after him again.

    "And make sure to tell him I'm only eighty-two!"

    Eddie exits the mansion and mumbles a 'thanks' to Aaron for holding the door for him before getting into his car. He spent a minute pocketing the money and rested his head on the seering wheel. He could feel himself getting a headache at the situation he was now in and rubbed his temples. He peered over at the clock and saw it was nearing four. Still have to make reservations, he grumpily thought. For my date... He shook his head and decided he had to do something to distract himself from the whole ordeal. He first decided to set a reservation at the restaurant. Eddie sat back in his car seat while he talked to the chimpanzee ensuring him that this time they would definitely be paying for a meal. He played with a stray strand of wool swirling out from the rest and sat a bit more. Maybe going to a barber is a good idea. He set a GPS to a well rated shop and drove away from the Nana Noodleman Estate. As Eddie drove he hoped that things would go well between Buster and him during their dinner. Eddie was still wondering which was the better option; apologize to Buster and address the situation or continue to pretend as if it didn't happen. Eddie couldn't see why he just couldn't muster the courage to apologize like an adult to Buster. Today, it also seemed like Buster didn't care much or seemed worried talking with me. And the fact he suggested dinner means he is just probably over it by now. Nothing to stress, Eddie, absolutely nothing. Eddie reached a stop light. As he waited his hooves started tapping against the steering wheel again. He groaned again in frustration.

    I am extremely stressed.  How am I suppose to make it thorough tonight...

[ehoiidoingthings]

Had to make a Sing version of this lmao

[ehoiidoingthings]

‘The Winds Have Changed’ (Part 3) Noodlemoon

Part 3. 

Note: I hope you guys are enjoying this because I like writing it haha :)

    Light poured into the office as daybreak came. There wasn't an alarm to wake the snoozing koala because it was the weekend and there was no pertinent appointments Buster had to attend to. So, sleep he did; his chest rising and falling softly as he dreamed.

    It was the theater office Buster had owned for twelve years. He was doing what he usually did which was rummaging through papers, reviewing some shows to decide what to put on next, various letters from audience members, notes from the stage crew who reported needed fixes and budgets for new costuming and sets. It was just a regular setting for Buster. There was a knock at the door. \

    "Hello? Come in!" Buster said whilst still going through his paperwork.

    A thin sheep walked in while wearing a classic red track jacket.

   "Hey Buster." The familiar sheep said.

"Eddie! It's good to see you."

"You too. What's going on?"

"Not much, just some paperwork."

"Sounds boring."

"It is but I don't mind."

    Eddie moved closer to him until he stood behind the koala. Buster felt tense once the sheep made his presence close to him; he could feel the hot air behind him whenever the other took a breath. Buster just continued looking at his papers as his hands became sweaty from the tension of what the sheep was going to do. Eddie finally moved and placed his hands on both shoulders of him. Eddie's hooves moved in circular motions. It was nice, but very out of character for Eddie to do.

    When he couldn't take it anymore, Buster asked, "Uh, Eddie? What're you-?"

Eddie cut him off with, "Shh, you worry too much. You are very tense; I just want to help you."

"Uh, I-I mean, t-hank you, Eddie, but uh-" He fidgeted around and started to squirm in his seat.

    The sheep turned the koala around in his desk chair. Eddie took hold of Buster's face. The older male was left wordless at the affectionate display. The younger leaned down close to his face before speaking.

    "You are real cute, Buster."

    Eddie leaned down to press those soft lips against his own-

   Buster woke with a start and ended up hitting his head roughly against the top of the desk he slept in. Daylight broke into the crack of his sleep space and his eyes needed a moment to adjust to both the light and the dazed feeling he got from hitting his head. He rubbed at the sore spot on his head and checked the time. 9am... he thought, not necessarily paying attention to the numbers thereafter. He rolled over onto his back and thought the dream over. Is this what my life has come too? Inappropriate dreams about my friend?... Doing such things to me?... In my office? Buster shook his head away from the dream.

    "Boy, I am lonely. Eight years is all it takes for me to suddenly become a goddamn pervert..." He thought aloud.

    Buster sighed. He had hoped all thoughts about the kiss from last night would go away but they didn't. Buster was still thinking, kept replaying the moment and how it was. How it had felt. It felt good. For what seemed the hundredth time, Buster shook his head. He quickly dressed and emerged from the drawer to sit at his desk. There would be no iguana greeting him today for she took the day off to go on a date Johnny had suggested. Even Mrs. Crawly is meeting people... Buster set his hands and head upon his desk. His finger traced small patterns across the wooden surface. He thought back to the conversation he had with Eddie about getting an apartment. He pulled out his phone and looked at his bank account; never before had Buster had so much money that he needed a bank account. And never before was Judith so happy to open an account for him and even give him a credit card. He decided he would do it. He went into his contacts to call Eddie but then quickly decided to forgo calling the sheep. One reason was due to the fact Eddie would not be awake at this time and the second reason was that he got a pang of anxiety when reminded of the events of last night. So instead, he pulled out his laptop (also recently bought) and searched for complexes nearby. He then started searching for furniture. Then a new bike, then suits, then shoes... Soon enough, Buster had exhausted two hours just browsing stores nearby. Buster never once spent his money frivolously and, while the window shopping online was fun, he decided to make the shopping trips spread out. Today his focus was to get a new bike and check out some apartments. Buster grabbed his jacket and headed out onto the streets of the city. He walked for a bit until he reached a bus stop. While waiting he heard a pair of wheels come towards him and looked over and saw a gorilla on a skateboard.

    "Oh! 'ello, Mr. Moon!" Johnny greeted him.

Buster smiled. "Hey Johnny! How have you been these days?"

Johnny got off of his skateboard and stood beside him.

"Been right good; jus' been runnin' me dad's shop while 'e spends 'is time in jail. From helping out at the theater I managed to pay for some o' his bail so 'is time in there is shortened by a considerable amount but 'e still got some time in der." Johnny looked happy at he thought of his dad coming out of jail soon.

Buster gave an awkward smile and replied, "That's good, Johnny. I, um, I'm sorry he is in there. I didn't mean for the show to get between you two."

"No, no, no! Mr. Moon! Please, it's all my own fault; I made the choice to do the show n' none o' it's any your fault." Johnny smiled. "I 'ppriciate the sentiment, though."

    Buster stood there and thought.

    "How much more is left of his bail?"

    Johnny looked up from his phone. "Uh, about thirteen thousand. It was at thirty but I used some o' the money he got from recent robberies n' sold his jewelry, some cars and other worthwhile things." He ran his fingers through his hair and added, "And pretty much any paycheck I get goes towards the bail." He chuckled. "People still come to 'is garage calling to have them cars fixed despite everythin'."

Buster gave a chuckle. "Those are some loyal customers."

"Yeah."

    There was a pause. Buster thought up a new topic.

    "So, what brings you to the bus stop, Johnny?"

"Oh, I gotta get some new trucks for my skateboard; getting flimsy 'cause I use it so much. I don't want to spend money on gas for a car."

"Ah, seems pretty reasonable." Buster replied.

"Yeah, the bike shop 'John's Place' has got some pretty good deals wit' some high quality items der."

    Buster gave a small gasp.

    "It's funny you say that because that is exactly where I'm heading!"

Johnny grinned. "No way, what would you need der?"

Buster fumbled with his hands a bit before saying, "Well, now that I have the money, I figured it was about time I got myself some sort of transportation."

Johnny 'hmm'-ed before asking, "Don't ya got the money for a car, though?"

"I mean, I do but I, uh, I just like riding bikes. Gets me outside, helps keep the pudge off..." Buster blushed remembering his and Eddie's conversation.

    Buster's attention was drawn to Johnny when he heard him laugh.

    "Sorry, Mr. Moon. ''elp keep the pudge off'. You needn't worry about it, Mr. Moon, you're fine."

    Buster smiled. "Thanks Johnny. Still getting a bike though, but now just because I like it, not because I've any shame of my figure."

Johnny laughed a bit more.

"That's good, Mr. Moon."

    Just then the bus pulled up. Buster was about to get on when he turned around to Johnny.

    "You, uh, you don't have to keep by my side if you don't want to." He twirled his fingers. "Just figured I'd say that in case you felt like you had to sit with me or stick with me in the bike shop. I know I'm not the most exciting company-"

"No way, Mr. Moon!" Johnny stopped him. "I enjoy you're company! I would be 'appy to make the trip wit' you!" Johnny gave a genuine smile at the koala.

    Buster gave a smile back.

    "Alright Johnny. If you insist! And, thank you."

"Yeah, I 'onestly would like to keep your company!"

    Buster hopped up onto the bus.

    "Let's get going then!"

    To Buster, the bus ride was quite comfortable with the gorilla. It definitely made the trip a lot faster for the two of them having someone to talk to. Johnny talked about how it was learning to run his dad's shop independently and how he gained respect for what his father did aside robbing with running the house and business. Buster would bring up older stories of him helping his dad out at his car wash and the two of them talked about the theater's most recent shows and chatted about what show to put on next.

    "How bout' a romance? Theater 'asn't done one o' those in a bit." Johnny suggested.

"No!" Buster said a little fast. Johnny looked at him in confusion before Buster recovered with, "Uh, I mean, no, I don't think people would be interested." He gave a nervous laugh.

"Hmm, I dunno, people always like a good ol' romance I've experienced." Johnny stated.

    Buster sat while his hands fidgeted. Johnny noticed this but waited for the older man to reply.

    When he didn't, Johhny asked, "What's the matter, Mr. Moon? You want to talk bout' it? Someone break ya heart or somethin'?"

    Buster leaned against the window and his ears drooped.

    "Uh, nothing like that, no; I haven't really dated someone in eight years. It's just... Recently things with me and romance have become, let's see... complicated."

    It's only complicated because you keep thinking about it, an irritated thought said. Johnny shifted next to him.

    "'M sorry to hear, Mr. Moon. Whoever they are don't know what they're missin' fo' sure!" The gorilla grinned but it did nothing to lift Buster's mood.

"I don't know if you want to listen to me ramble on about it, kid." Buster said a little sadly.

    He was upset because he just felt so conflicted. Conflicted about something that shouldn't even be an issue. All he has been is anxious since the kiss that happened and, because he couldn't get it out of his head, Buster was questioning whether or not he was developing feelings due to it. Feelings that shouldn't exist... He's my friend! He's twenty-five! I've still got to pay his parents back...

    Johnny again distracted Buster from his thoughts saying, "I don' mind listenin' as long as you don' mind tellin'."

"I don't know," Buster's ears fell a little more.

"Maybe it would 'elp talkin'. I was part of a gang, remember? I know when to keep my mouth shut!"

    Johnny made a motion of zipping his lips and he laughed. The notion made Buster give a small laugh and smile as well.

"Well, I mean, alright." He motioned with his hands for affect. "I'll tell you, but no names will be used! I'll just describe the situation to you."

"Fine by me, Mr. Moon." Johnny sat back and crossed his arms and waited for the koala.

Buster cleared his throat. "Well, first things first, I'm into guys. So, there's that..."

    He looked at the gorilla expectantly. Johnny just nodded his head for him to continue. Buster took in a breath.

    "I'm friends with this guy. He, uh, he is a bit younger than me. Um, by eleven years."

    Buster looked again to Johnny. He just smiled at him and nodded his head. Buster was confused by this part.

    "Does it bother you? The, uh, age difference that is? I mean, since you are a younger man?" Buster blushed at what he was asking and adverted his eyes.

He looked back when Johnny said, "Not really. I mean, it's not that huge a gap and you're both legal. So, I mean, no use in taking offense to it. Me mum was a lot younger than my dad so I guess I kind of grew up with that. Cept' me mum left when I was lil' but that's another story."

    Buster took this in.

    "Oh, okay. So, yeah, me and him are pretty close despite the age gap. I met him when he was in college; the same college I went to when I was younger. He took a theater class and, well, I told the professor they could use my stage for what they needed. And he just kept coming back to my theater. We became good friends because of that." Buster smiled at the memories of his and Eddie's early days in their friendship.

"Anyway, fast forward to just last night. He had me over to his place. We hung out, you know, watched movies and played games, had dinner. Well, he got to drinking and-"

    Johnny interrupted.

    "Okay, 'old it there. I just don' want to hear any 'bed stuff' before you get into it."

    Buster turned crimson and began blabbering.

    "Oh! N-no! No, no, no. It didn't get that far, I promise!"

Johnny laughed. "Okay, Mr. Moon. Continue on den!"

Buster took a moment to collect himself and smooth his ear fur. "Alright, so he got to drinking and talking about how he misses having a 'sweetie' and someone to love. Then he asks me if I've seen anyone. I've just gone on some dinner dates but nothing more than that; nothing lasting within the past eight years. So, he goes and tells me that I'm..." He pauses and gather himself. "That I'm adorable... and good-looking... that I smell good, like flowers..." Buster hesitated as heat rose to his face before continuing, "and that I should be with someone."

    Buster shifted in his seat.

    "Was that all then?" Johnny asked.

"N-no..."

"What 'appened next then?" Buster could see the excitement in the younger man's face.

"Uh, well, uh..."

"Go on!" Johnny's full attention was on him now.

    Buster just wanted to go into a hole.

    "It might seem really stupid, but uh... When I was about to leave he grabbed me and... and said I am real cute and he just, uh, wellhekissedmeonthelips."

    He choked out the last part. The anxiety was back and Buster felt stupid at how he told the story and felt childish. He was a situated adult and should be able to talk about kissing. His shoulder's tensed as he awaited Johnny's response. He looked over and saw that the gorilla had his face in his hands.

    "Aw, that's just adorable though! Like, how 'e was complimenting you n' all! And by the way you said it, it sounds like you fancy this bloke!"

"That's just not it  though, Johnny!" Buster sounded slightly desperate.

"Like, I don't know if he kissed me because he is interested or if he was just drunk! And his age; he doesn't know what he wants! And I don't want to lose his friendship. Eddie is my best friend-"

    Buster immediately closed his mouth and his eyes went wide. He looked frantically at Johnny who had a similar expression.

    "Oh my gosh." Johnny said.

Buster's heart fell and then the younger said, "I was right this whole time!" He gave an air fist pump.

"What the... right about what?" Buster was lost.

"About you n' Eddie! Oh my Lord, you two are going to be the best couple; I knew it! I knew you guys had a thing for each other."

    Johnny laughed some more and some passengers started looking in their direction.

    "Okay, Johnny, okay... How could you even tell? I haven't had conflicting feelings for Eddie before this moment! I don't understand how you could get that kind of vibe-"

"It's jus' the way you two act around each other." He smiled.

"Anyone could assume you guys were already datin' considerin' how you two act with each other. Everyone also thought you two were partners after the theater collapsed cause' you ran off to 'is place immediately. You were also the only one Eddie called out when the glass broke from them bears. You guys care about each other but I think that it could reach farther."

    Buster heavily considered what Johnny was saying to him. Everything he said was true, but Buster had never really thought about it in this light before. Eddie was someone Buster always went to. I guess, in this perspective, it does make sense. Now don't go getting crazy there, Buster. There still is an immense amount of doubt...

    "You really think he could think of me like that? I mean, you don't think it was just because he was drunk?" Buster shyly asked the gorilla, his voice losing some of its usual power.

"Yeah, definitely! I mean, he didn't try taking you to 'is bed so, I mean, he couldn't have been that drunk; just enough to get some truth's out that's been buggin' 'im lately is all. I mean, that's what I would call it at."

    Buster's ears perked at the idea that Eddie would actually consider him.

    "I don't know, I mean, there's still so much..." He bit his lip trying to decide on what was so much.

"I dunno either, Mr. Moon. But, I mean, if you were to pursue somethin' more with him, I don't think it would end badly. I think, if you really want it and are just afraid of trying, not afraid of 'im but just afraid of trying a relationship, then just go for it! See what 'appens, yeah?"

    Buster pursed his lips.

    "I wish I had your confidence."

"Don't wish for my confidence, Mr. Moon; aim to have more than mine! I mean, Eddie said it himself; adorable, good-looking, flower scented and cute and now owner of a successful theater! You're the whole deal! And you're getting a bike to keep that pudge off!"

    Buster laughed aloud at Johnny's statements.

   "You know how to tickle someone's ego, don't you?" He wiped a tear.

"Yup! I've always been the one to keep things together most times at 'ome. Being criminals ain't easy." Johnny gave another grin to the koala.

"I'll give it a thought. I definitely feel more comfortable about the whole thing after talking with you, though." Buster looked at the gorilla smiling in way that he hadn't done the whole day.

"Yeah, no problem, Mr. Moon! I'm happy to 'elp! Thanks for talkin' with me bout' it."

"Yeah. Also, you can call me Buster when we're not at work if you want."

    Johnny's smile grew bigger.

"Alright... Buster." Johnny said with a bit of a question hanging on the end.

    They both laughed. The bus stopped a bit away from the bike shop they were planning to go to. They hopped off and walked down the street towards their destination. They took a few steps, both thinking about the conversation. The silence was broken by Buster.

    "You know, Johnny, if I really am going to pursue Eddie, I'm going to have to pay his parents back for the shows they've funded for me."

    They chuckled at the slight humor found in the statement.

    "Yeah, that would be a good place to start." Johnny replied.

[ehoiidoingthings]

‘The Winds Have Changed’ (Part 2) Noodlemoon

Part 2.

Note: We just gonna keep this rolling!

    It was 6:30 and there was still no sign of Eddie. Buster waited by the theater's doors in anticipation of his friend. Despite the lateness, Buster wasn't upset; this was Eddie Noodleman. The man was never on time except for paid work and dates. So, wait buster did while slowly pacing in front of the doors just to move around a bit. He checked the door a third time to ensure it had been in fact locked and walked to where he had been standing. He checked his new watch. Tapped his foot. Started whistling. Boy. I am a restless one, aren't I? 6:45 and Buster saw the blue, topless car.

    "Hey Buster? Sorry for the wait but I decided last minute to grab some stuff for the night!"

    Once in the passenger seat, Buster looked in the back of the car and saw the mountains of liquor and party foods. Definitely a lot of groceries, he thought. The car pulled from the curb once Buster had buckled in.

    "Uh, Eddie? What exactly do you think we are doing tonight?" Buster asked, the alcohol becoming a little intimidating.

"You and I, my dear koala friend, are going to get smashed. I just felt like getting really drunk tonight; it's been a while since I've been hammered."

    Eddie grinned at the thought.

    He added, "Drunk gaming is like the best thing dude. Plus you're hilarious when you've had a bit to drink."

    Eddie laughed while Buster let out a nervous chuckle.

    "Uh, I don't know Eddie... It's been a while since I've gotten the drunk your describing and, in all honestly, I'm not too interested in getting that way tonight."

    Buster looked away, expecting disappointment from the sheep. They stopped at an intersection. All he got was a snicker and a pat on the arm.

    "Yo, it's alright dude. Now I have someone to babysit me tonight!"

    Buster felt a lot more at ease.

    "Thanks, Eddie, for understanding."

Eddie looked over to Buster before saying, "Yeah man, I'll save the drinking til' your almost ready to go that way you don't have to deal with annoying me too long haha."

Buster chuckled before responding, "Yeah, you are pretty obnoxious when you drink."

    They remainder of the drive was pretty silent but a content silence. The both of them mutually enjoyed the ride and the soft breeze given by driving the calmer roads. The sun was heading it's way down and the day progressed into eventual night. It smelled fresh outside. Dewy, Buster thought. It was a nice drive. Eddie knew how to drive smoothly on the streets with avoiding potholes and any crack or rock that might appear. Buster felt relaxed and before he realized it they were arriving to the complex where Eddie's apartment was. Eddie pulled into his numbered spot and locked the car up.

    "Almost home. Now, what to do about you guys..." He gestured towards the bags. Buster knew he and Eddie would not be able to carry them by themselves in one go. Eddie appeared to think otherwise.

    "Grab as many as you can, Buster; I've got the rest."

    Buster only managed to get three bags and stepped back to be guided by Eddie. He had trouble peeking from over the plastic to see his friend.

    "C'mon you lousy pile of- ugh!" Eddie groaned and the frustration of trying to grab the remainder bags.

Buster tried interjecting with, "Eddie, why don't we make two trips-"

He was cut off as Eddie turned around with a triumphant cry.

"I told you we could do it!"

    Buster was met with the sight of Eddie covered with grocery bags. He had them around his neck, tied to his pants and up to his shoulder and concluded the image with one bag in his mouth. Buster let out a laugh.

    "You're too much sometimes, you know that?"

Through his mouthful Eddie let out a short laugh and muffled, "let's g't goin'! Fo'lw 'e!"

    They trudged up the stairs with their bags upon bags upon bags. Buster noticed Eddie getting tired after the second flight and almost said something until Eddie turned to walk down the lane and stopped at a door.

    "'eys." He muffled.

"What?" Buster said, confused.

"'EEYS." Eddie said louder and shook his butt.

"Oh! Keys! Gotcha." Buster reached in Eddie's back pocket and fished the silver pieces out.

    He fitted them into the door handle and opened the apartment. Eddie said something that sounded like 'thanks' and walked in while Buster entered the space after him. He closed the door behind him and noticed how clean the apartment looked. Buster took in the space; living room to the left, kitchen to the right then ahead two doors, one presumably for the bathroom and the other the bedroom. Good pick, Eddie, Buster mused. It was pretty modern looking with it being furnished with black and white and any variation of those colors. It was a monochromatic setting as Buster had learned a while ago. There were miscellaneous boxes that had yet to be unpacked that where strewn about the floors. He walked over to the kitchen and set the bags down.

    Eddie had just finished placing the last one on the ground when he said, "Pretty boring looking, I know. I have yet to decorate it to be more exciting."

    "I think it looks pretty sleek, Eddie." Buster stated.

     He hopped up on one of the bar stools and the kitchen's island and propped his head up on his hands. Eddie busied himself with putting the groceries away; bagels, cream cheese, bell peppers, doritos, chips, pizza rolls... Buster observed the foods. Quite the variety. Obviously his life coach hasn't had that big an impact on his diet. Buster snickered at the thought. Eddie caught him and turned around.

    "Hey man, doritos though. Cool ranch doritos."

    Buster out up his hands defensively.

"I didn't say anything." A grin was on his face.

"I know you thought it." Eddie grinned.

"While that is true, I still didn't say anything." They laughed.

    Eddie moved towards him.

    "Hey, at least I'm working on the pudge, look at you!" He then began poking at Buster' s stomach.

"Hey, hey, hey! I've barely got some!" Buster laughed and Eddie ticked his midsection.

"Okay, okay. Okay!" Buster said in between breaths.

    Eddie finally let him alone. He flecked one of his small biceps.

    "You wish you were this solid!" He flecked some more and Buster let out a laugh.

"Pfft, yeah, sure buddy."

    They both laughed at the display. Eddie finished putting the groceries away and faced his friend.

    "Alright man, you ready?"

    Buster dropped his coat and bow tie.

    "So ready."

    The two sat down on the leather couch in front of the TV and, after arguing for a bit on what game, settled into a racing one and played competitively for a while. There were moments of cheating i.e. pushing each other out of their seats or throwing the others remote control away. It was a some time before Buster became hungry. It became apparent to both of them when a growl was heard from the smaller male's stomach. Buster let out an embarrassed laugh.

    "So, uh, what do you have to eat?" Buster gave a sheepish grin.

"I don't know, man. I could make some oven lasagna of you're really hungry."

    Buster's stomach gave a growl of approval.

    "Sounds great!" Buster stated as they both laughed at the noise.

    Eddie went and put the timer on for the lasagna while Buster finished up the game they were playing. The two decided that they had had enough of it and got to taking about the apartment. It was mostly Buster asking the questions for he hasn't really owned an apartment.

    When this came up, Eddie couldn't help but ask, "Why not? I thought it was only recently you've been sleeping in that desk drawer."

    Buster gave a half-hearted smile.

    "Actually, ever since college I've been sleeping in the desk drawer. I lived at my dad's for a bit and then decided I felt guilty for staying at home so long. So I lied and said I'd gotten my own place when in reality I set up in the drawer."

    Eddie looked around and thought about it. Thought about years spent sleeping in a desk drawer.

    Eddie scratched the back of his head, trying to grasp the though, while replying, "Aw, that sucks man. Wish you said something sooner."

"No, it's totally fine!" Buster waved his hands to stop any sense if pity towards him. "I actually like it! Being that close to the theater the whole time. It's hard to explain."

    Buster fidgeted with his top shirt button as he talked on the couch.

    There was a moment of silence and then the timer for the lasagna went off.

    "I'll go get that ready for us." Eddie stood from the couch. "What do you want to drink? Anything fancy?"

"Not really, water or coffee; whichever you've got around."

"I've got iced coffee, pre-sweetened?"

"Yeah, that's fine. Thank you."

    Buster took the same seat at the island and Eddie placed the bottle down in front of him. As buster heard the pop of the lid go as he opened it, a plate with a slice of lasagna and a fork was there. A napkin soon joined their side.

    "Thanks again, Eddie."

"No problem man."

    Eddie leaned over the marble surface and took a bite. Buster followed suit and the two ate contently. The silence was broken by the sheep.

    "So, uh, you ever going to get your own place? I mean, your theater's been doing awesome! I can't imagine you don't have the money for it now."

    Buster twirled his fork.

    "I mean, I do..." He paused. "I don't know, in all honesty Eddie, why I don't get my own place." He looked solemnly at his food.

"You nervous of doing it?"

    Buster thought for a moment.

    "Yeah, I guess I am. It would mean more than just getting my own place. I would have to actually buy a car, wake up earlier, go to bed at reasonable times... It would change the way I live which is something I haven't done in a while. Like, a while Eddie."

    Eddie went over and patted Buster on the back.

    "Nah, I got you man. Change can be a bit much. I think getting your own place would be a good thing. You can get a little too invested in your theater, you know?"

    Buster knew what he was saying. Buster, admittingly, worked himself into a stress pit at times. Perhaps Eddie is right; he should get his own place.

    "Maybe you're right Eddie; I should go looking for an apartment."

"That's the spirit! Give ya' something to do on top of everything else you do!"

    They laughed at this.

    "Yeah, it would probably have to be some place closer to the theater, though. You know, for until I decide on getting a car." Buster thought about the car and added, "Maybe I'll just get another bike."

Eddie spoke with some lasagna in his mouth. "'elp k''p the pu'ge oft."

Buster chuckled and stated matter-of-factually, "I don't know Eddie, I don't sit around all day playing games."

Eddie smacked a hoof onto the island. "It's g'me 'esign!"

    Buster laughed at his teased friend and took a last bite before placing the dishes in the sink. He was going to clean them when Eddie turned the water off.

    "It's all good Buster; you are my guest after all."

    Buster's ears twitched. Normally Eddie was plead him to clean. Hmm... Life coaches...

    "If you insist!" Buster said as he let Eddie take over.

    Again, the koala observed from the island and watched his friend as he did the small pile of dishes. Buster could tell he used too much soup judging by the bubbles coming out of the sink. Buster took it as a humorous quality to Eddie. Endearing, he thought. He looked up a bit in confusion. Endearing? What was endearing about soap? And with Eddie for that matter? No, more like funny. Eddie's a funny guy, not endearing. Buster shook his head to clear the confusion from his mind. Well, I guess sometimes he can be. A dork, clumsy, worry-some, charming but in an unusual way. Like, in a way you would want to kiss him because he seems hopeless but also not because he is hopeless. I wonder what it would be like to kiss-.

    Buster shot up from his seat muttering to himself "No. no-no. Nope. No-ope," and walked over to the fridge.

    Eddie didn't seem to hear his mutterings as he tried to put plastic wrap on the leftover pasta dish. Buster tried distracting himself by looking for another drink. Orange juice, cranberry juice, pineapple juice, carrot juice, cherry juice...

    "Eddie, for the love of- why do you have so many juices?" Buster inquired.

    He continued to look for something more appropriate to drink at the hour.

    Eddie shrugged. "I don't know, I really like juices."

"You got anything else?" He asked as he rummaged around some more.

"I mean, I got some beers." He passed one to him.

Buster inspected the can before saying, "I suppose this'll do. I haven't had one in a while though."

"You'll be fine, it's just beer." Eddie said as he mixed himself a drink.

"You want to watch a movie?" The sheep asked.

"Yeah, that sounds good." Buster headed towards the couch as he spoke.

    Buster checked his watch and saw that it was 9 o'clock.

    "I'll probably call a cab to grab me after the movie, Eddie."

    Said individual joined him on the couch with a thump. Eddie had a drink and a bowl of popcorn by him.

    "Sounds good, Buster."

    Eddie turned on the TV and pulled up a streaming website for movies. They easily decided on comedy, one that involved a band of thieves that resulted in failing heists. Buster took a sip of his drink and decided he liked the brine taste and continued with it. As the movie progressed, so did Eddie's amount of drinks. Buster just laughed as his sheep friend started getting restless and began critiquing the movie in very harsh manners whilst also laughing at every funny scene that appeared. Buster leaned back and just observed again. He lost interest in the movie in favor of Eddie who was now pacing the living room.

    "You good Eddie?" Buster asked with a laugh.

    Eddie walked until he was at the couch again and replied, "tooootally. I mean, I wuz jus' thinkin'... dude, I'm missin' some lovin' from a sweetie."

    Buster laughed.

    "Oh, is that so, Eddie?"

"Yeah man, I mean, I been single for like, eveh man. Am I not good enough or somethin'?"

    Eddie sulked into the corner of the couch and ate some more chips.

Buster shook his head.

    "Dude, it's only been two years. Imagine being single for eight!"

    Buster reminisced about his last relationship when his thoughts were brought back to Eddie.

    "Daaang dude... I dunno know if I coul' manage that. Not even one-night stands?"

    Buster winced at the thought.

    "Nope, not even one. Eddie, you know I don't do those things; not even when I was in college."

    Eddie yawned.

    "I don' either. I wuz too lame in my school day to e'en get any anywa'."

There was a moment of silence then Eddie said, rather loudly, "Wait! Yous haven't dated in eight year? Like, legit eight?"

    Buster flushed at the notion suddenly becoming embarrassed at his bachelor status.

    "Yeah, eight years." Eddie was going to say something but Buster cu him off saying, "I-I mean, I've looked around. I've gone on dates, but other than that, nothing has really gone farther."

    Eddie scrunched his face as he thought about it and said, "Dude, I fo'got; is it just guys or gurls and guys with you? Cause' you defin't'ly like guys."

Buster blushed again and replies a little softly, "Just guys. I guess it's also difficult to get men to approach me because I don't go 'prancing around' if you get what I mean."

Eddie belched and replied, "Yeah yeah yeah, I know. You's a sophis'icated man! No one would be the wisest if they was to guess at you. But I mean, running a theater n' bein' single at yo' age plus looking all clean n' groomed n' good looking all the time can make sum guess."

"Stop saying such embarrassing things, Eddie." He laughed while also being slightly embarrassed.

    It wasn't a secret. Buster wasn't ashamed of his sexuality; it's just that no one ever really asked about it unless they wanted to take him out on a date which was good.

    Eddie leaned closer to Buster so he was eye level with him. It looked as though the sheep was looking him all over. Buster had his mouth open to say something but was so confused as to what was happening that words didn't come out. Instead he just moved back a bit to create some space. When Eddie was done inspecting him, he took a sniff of him and leaned back.

    "Dude, you's real cute man. I don't know if I eveh said it, but you's just adorable. I'm surprised no one's eveh picked you up as theirs. N' you smell good! Like some flowers or some shit."

    Eddie took another drink. Adorable? Me? Buster just gave a nervous laugh at his comment.

"Whatever you say, Eddie."

    The movie ended and, as Buster promised, called for a cab to pick him up at Eddie's apartment. Buster was putting his coat and bow tie back when he heard a shuffle behind him.

    Eddie was standing next to him with his empty glass.

    "Yo, man, thanks for hangin' out to this night at my place!"

    Buster chuckled at the slurred speech.

    "Anytime Eddie. Take care of yourself!"

"Yeah man, you too!" Eddie leaned on the counter.

    Buster was heading out the door when he felt a tug on the back of his coat. He turned around to see Eddie bent over with a smile.

"You are real cute, Buster."

    Buster was about to say something to retort the statement but, before he knew it, the sheep had his lips on his. Buster's eyes flung wide open as he stared at his friend; eyes closed, a flush across his face and eyebrows high with ears slightly lowered. Before he could even begin to register what was happening, Eddie pulled away from the chaste kiss and walked back to the kitchen to pour another drink. Buster, in a panic, ran out the door and flung it shut, pressing his small body against it. His chest was heaving, he was sweaty and his breath was hitching. He slowly peeled himself away from the door and began to walk slowly down the stairs. He was startled. He was afraid of what had just happened. Okay, okay Buster. It's fine! Drunk friends kiss each other all the time. Just be lucky he didn't take you to his bed- Buster let out a chirped noise as he thought about it going that far and was so very thankful it didn't and that he had decided to not drink and that he had decided to leave right then. For once, Buster Moon had made some good choices. The cab pulled up and buster took a seat in the back and directed the man where to take him. While in the car, Buster kept thinking about the kiss. Small, chaste, quick, soft, supple lips on mine... Buster groaned and decided to quite thinking about the whole thing. He arrived back at the theater and made quick work as to get into bed. He buried his face in his pillow.

    "That's what you get for thinking about it earlier." He grumbled to himself.

    He thought about it again. It was just so inappropriate; him and someone eleven years younger than him. Especially someone who's family had been loaning him money for so long. He banged his head against his pillow a couple times before he decided to give it a rest. Again, Buster, he was drinking and had been thinking about missing a 'sweetie'. Probably just desperate to go for me. Although, Eddie could have anyone if he actually tried. Besides, there's nothing to do about it now... Buster just  laid and thought to himself. He switched off his light and settled into his bed. He knew, no matter what, that the kiss had happened and to just accept it as that; a kiss. A drunk, misled kiss. No harm at all. Well, at least if you stop thinking about it. Buster yawned and realized he was getting too deep into the situation and laid his head down to rest finally. All he could really do was hope Eddie wouldn't remember what had happened by tomorrow.

    He will probably forget it ever happened; with me, Buster Moon.

[ehoiidoingthings]

'The Winds Have Changed' (Part 1) Noodlemoon

Part 1.

Noodlemoon (i.e. Buster Moon/Eddie Noodleman) fanfic. Hope you like it!

Note: I have yet to write fanfiction on this site, so please let me know if there is an easier way of going about this. Okey, thanks and enjoy!

     It’s been a year since the theater has been rebuilt. The theater was intact, business was better than ever, and Buster had made some friends along the way of all backgrounds and ages. Pretty much life was finally going in the right direction for him. Indeed, it was certainly a fantastic time. It was great. Amazing. Astounding. Ab-so-lute-ly fine. Buster sat at his desk and was logging the amount the theater had made the past weekend from his most recent showing of “Learning to Fly Away”; a short musical Ash and Meena had written. Although unknown, it had many folks come in and watch the short run (only an hour) but it really characterized the girls themselves in the theatrical setting. And despite the success of it and the fact Buster had a large sum to himself even after the girls were given the largest percentage and after paying the stage crew, Buster had his mind wandering to other things besides theater these days. It was silent in his office; only the breeze of Ms. Crawly’s fan and the running of the pipes for the squids filled the atmosphere. It was different than the old theater's creaks and whispers she told him, telling him to fix that draft or replace the drywall.     It was empty here. There was no one else filling his space and sharing his time with him. Since he needn’t stress about bankruptcy his mind decided to fill with other thoughts away from what was his full time priority which was to just keep the place afloat. He looked outside his office window and watched as two young gazelles headed down the street hand in hand. Oh, how I miss those days. After all this time, it just hit him how he had missed being younger and spending time outside with people. He was lonely and had terrible anxiety when meeting people for recreational reasons not involved with his theater. He didn’t know what to do to help the feeling. The feeling of rejection once people discovered who he actually was. He was someone different than the facade he implemented with the stage and theater. He was afraid of many things and had various forms of anxiety and chronic stress alongside boats of depression that hit him at sensitive points in his life or when he thought of certain things.     Like how he was 36 and single having only experienced 3 partners in his life and having ruined all relationships with his mixed emotions. He signed. Why do I have such highs and lows? No one would really understand that, would they? He pondered the thought and caught himself slipping into a state of self pity. He quickly snapped back to reality and folded the bills away. He decided to distract himself with a call to his friend, Eddie Noodleman.

    Eddie had been swimming when he heard his phone go off. He groaned and hoisted himself out of the pool. Again, he had another colored speedo. His life coach had been helping him with his diet and exercise and Eddie had been feeling confident to purchase some newer clothes to help signify his change in maturity. He picked up a job in video game design and would intern at the G&E company when he wasn’t helping Buster at the theater with the sound board and audio. Finally his film degree was coming in handy for he was placed on the atmospheric and scenery field of the games he helped to design. He spent less of his free time on games and more on focusing in on his career. Though, he still loved his games but found testing games all day made the idea of playing at home til 3am less appealing.

    He was visiting his parents and finishing moving the rest of his stuff out of the pool house into his new apartment when he decided to take a swim as a break. His mother was especially proud of him. Finally her 25 year old son was moving out. It was a day to behold. He would still come for meals every now and again and some life tips but other than that, Eddie had become totally independent.

    He shook the looser beads of water from his wool and picked up a robe and his phone.

    "Hey! How are things going?“ He heard the familiar koala say.

    “Pretty good, Buster. Moving the rest of my stuff out of my parents pool house. Been a day, I’m surprised G&E let me take the day off considering I haven’t been there long.”

    “Eddie, you have an eye for bringing those games to life! You really know where to place a story and that’s no lie.”

    Eddie couldn’t help but smile.

    “Aw, c’mon, you know just how to tickle my ego bud.”

    Buster leaned back in his chair. Yup, definitely a good call talking to Eddie, he thought.

    “I am happy to hear you’re moving out, must be exciting.”

    “Yeah, exciting and stressful. I’ve never really been that great with these whole ‘life steps’, ya know?”

    Buster snickered.

    “Oh, I know Eddie haha. I remember the first time you walked into my theater with your film class and how you kinda lagged behind, afraid of what the scary koala had in store to teach you guys.”

    Eddie blushed from the embarrassment.

    “Oh, stop it will you? I was just nervous because the professor didn’t explain exactly what we would be doing. I thought we were putting on a play, not designing the set. There was no way I was going to let you cast me for some stupid role.”

    “You still managed to do a shoddy job with building that wooden tree though. Never met a lazier guy in my life.”

    Buster let out another laugh and so did Eddie.

    Eddie retorted with, “Hey, I was in an elective class I didn’t want to take and was 19, alright?”

    Buster thought then said, “Well, I guess offering my theater as a teaching environment did get me a free set built.”

    “Always know the cheapest ways, don’t you?”

    “You bet!”

    Eddie thought about how that theatre would be almost a sanctuary to him as well as Buster. Buster was always willing to let Eddie stay and help when he didn’t feel like going back to the dorms or home when his parents were being difficult. Eddie was a dork in college and didn’t have much friends that appreciated him for him but rather for his parents money. Despite the people asking to hang out with him, Eddie was alone in those days because he knew why they wanted to hang out with him. There was no one genuine. That’s why he turned to Buster and wanted to help at the theatre.      In that time, he was able to appreciate the drive Buster had for the theatre and came to admire it for he had still been struggling to find a passion. It was also time he spent getting to know Buster, ‘Mr. Moon’ as he had called him back then. There was a lot to the little guy and Eddie, despite the age gap, would always come back to learn a little more each day from Buster. And Buster would always be glad to have an extra stage hand and fellow friend who also enjoyed rising the props up the rope and singing karaoke on the empty stage. Buster had never asked for his money, never asked for help financially. The only reason Buster used any of his family’s money was because Eddie would offer because he wanted to see the theater do as well as Buster did. It wasn’t until later Eddie had learned of Buster’s financial issues. It actually was an accident when he overheard a conversation of Buster on the phone pleading with the bank. Since then, Eddie promised to help in any way he could to the koala. It’s been quite a journey since then.

    Eddie, reminded of those times, said caringly, “At the time I thought you were pretty lame with how caught up you were in all of it but then I got to know you. And you know what? You’re a pretty cool dude Buster.”

   Buster became red at the unexpected compliment.

    “Thanks Eddie, you too pal.”

    Eddie formed an idea and said to Buster, “Hey, way don’t you come over tonight and we can celebrate my new apartment? We can play some games or cheesy movies if you want! Maybe have some drinks and just chill, how about it?”

    Buster tapped a pen to his lips and his feet kicked up onto his desk thinking about it. “Sounds like fun, I haven’t got much going on tonight and could probably use the air. I would need a ride though; your place is a but far for a bike.”

    “No problemo Buster. How does 6 sound?”

    “Sounds good to me, I’ll see you then!”

    “See ya!”

    They both clicked their phone to end the call and continue on with their tasks; Eddie clearing his pool house and Buster logging his theater. But both were eager for what the night would hold.

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🐑💛💖🐨

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Buster and Eddie’s Car Moment

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hullo I watched another kids movie and found another gay ship within two days

and this one i actually cONTRIBUTED TO help me

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I’m not the only one who noticed this right?

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What did I tell ya? Shipping Eddie and Buster like a crazy little thingo

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Didnt have my laptop with me today but still did some good ol’ fashioned ball point pen sketches. Still trying to figure out how I wanna draw Buster. The arrows and markings you see are me telling myself what to do differently next time I draw him. Enjoy!

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I just watched “SIng” and oH MY GAWD LOOK AT THIS ADORABLE KOALA MAN!! I enjoyed this character a lot and had to draw him lmao. Enjoy! :3

one day i will learn how to draw Koala hands, but today is not that day, srry ._.

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I made a GIF guys, I am pleased with how it came out, I don’t usually do these. Hope you like it! :D (yes, I did do it of my new gay babies okay)

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Henlo

Another name, another blog with other things *happy sigh* ah, the winds have changed…