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keithpoenewt · 5 months

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5 Times Montague and Silas Fought + 1 Time They Didn't - Part 2

Part 1

2 - Teeth / Into You - Grand Glacier

Word count: 4,380

Silas stands outside the Grand Glacier hotel debating if he should enter or cut his losses and go home. When he received the invitation in the mail, he was certain it was a mistake. Montague doesn’t speak to him in months then all of the sudden decides to invite him to a party at his stupid pompous hotel? The nerve on that guy. Who cares if it was only two months of silence? Who cares if Silas was the one who told Montague to fuck off in the first place?

The audacity on that stupidly handsome French fuck.

Against his better judgment, he pushes open the hotel doors and walks in. As expected, the place is filled with many of the higher ups of Helios as well as people the Society has most likely lied to in order to ensure their support. Silas doesn’t like it, but he knows he’s in no place to judge considering his parents did the same to build the empire he inherited. It just leaves a sour taste in his mouth knowing someone he cares deeply about is behind this. Surely if Montague was transparent from the start about the medallions and who else he was working with, maybe Silas could have talked him out of working with some the others (aside from Nisha since Silas believes she’s the one of the group who has her morals in order…sort of).

Silas notes a lot of the decorations have diamonds interwoven in them. He half wonders where the hell Montague got his hands on this much diamond, but the other half of him suspects it has to do with that special amulet of his. Whenever Montague got a little too upset about something, he’d notice the amulet glow briefly and the tips of Montague’s fingers became diamond encrusted. Though it really only happened if someone got too close to Silas. Montague never showed the true power of what the amulet could do, but Silas assumes his whole body gets covered in diamond armor. He’d be lying if it wasn’t kinda hot to see Montague’s typical stoic nature crack under pressure.

Silas stops, startled by the thought. Though, before he can fully process what possessed him to think of Montague that way, Frank headbutts him and uses his tail to point towards the grand staircase. Silas sees Montague standing there talking with Oscar. Normally, Montague has a gray overcoat he wears, but he’s settled for only wearing his dark undervest, black shirt, and silver pants.

“Sometimes, you’re a stranger in my bed Don’t know if you love me or want me dead”

“Do you expect me to go and sssspeak to him?” Silas says to Frank. “Becausssse I don’t like that idea.”

And I don’t like having to deal with you whining and pining over him all the time, Frank responds. So you have two choices: go talk to him or have my teeth sink into your neck.

Rude.

Silas shoves his pride aside and makes his way over to Montague. Oscar spots him first, immediately frowning. “I thought we had a strict ‘no reptiles’ policy?” Oscar wonders.

Montague turns, eyes lighting up. “Silas! You actually came!”

“I can get rid of him if you want,” Oscar growls.

Silas glares at Oscar while Frank hisses at him. “Doessss the overgrown lap animal think he can win?”

Oscar bares his teeth and his claws unfurl out of his paws. Montague places a hand on his chest, which immediately puts the tiger at ease. It makes Silas’s blood boil.

“Oscar, that is not necessary. Silas is a guest, and this is not how we treat guests,” Montague chastises.

The tiger grumbles. “Whatever…have fun with your little snake. I’ll be at the bar when you want some real company.” Oscar marches down the stairs, brushing past Silas.

He’d make a great statement rug in your master bedroom, Frank notes.

“Agreed,” Silas mutters.

“Sorry about him. He’s, well, protective…I guess,” Montague says. “Anyway, I am really happy to see you though. I will admit that I didn’t think you would come.”

“I wassss surprised to ssssee the invite,” Silas admits. “Two monthssss hearing nothing then ssssuddenly thissss?”

Montague chuckles. “Well, I wanted to call immediately after you left, but Nisha told me I should give you some space and time to decompress. She reminded me you prefer to not be cornered. I am sorry if it made it seem like I didn’t care. I did—I do—I just—I also got busy. With the Underground trying to thwart our progress…things have been messy. They have been a huge thorn in our sides.”

The Underground. Jonsey and Hope. Silas knew them well considering he’s been lending them a hand from time to time whenever they ask. An uncomfortable pit sits at the bottom of his stomach. He doesn’t like lying to Montague, but if he found out that Silas ended up choosing the opposing side in this fight…that might set him off the deep end. Nisha can only harvest and make so much wine at one time.

Silas is good at keeping a neutral expression. Frank usually is the one to betray his innermost thoughts, but he came to an agreement with the snake to make sure Montague never finds out about him taking Jonsey and Hope’s side until the time was right—whenever that may be.

“I bet they have, but I alsssso know you’re not one to go down without a fight.” Silas reaches up and flattens Montague’s collar. His hands linger for a moment and move down to Montague’s amulet. Before they can touch it, Montague takes his hands, smiling fondly at him. Silas didn’t notice it before, but Montague must’ve abandoned his gloves when he ditched his coat. They’re soft and warm, and Silas can picture himself leaning into Montague’s touch as he runs his hands through his hair.

He should’ve left the hat at home. Fuck.

“But close ain’t close enough ‘Til we cross the line”

“I would not do that…unless you want to turn to diamond,” Montague whispers, leaning farther into Silas’s personal bubble. “Though, I think some diamond would look great on you.”

So, your theory was right, Frank comments. And close your mouth before you start drooling.

Silas clenches his jaw. He gets the briefest whiff of lingering FlowBerry on Montague’s breath before he’s hit with Montague’s cologne, getting hints of apple, cinnamon, smoke, and bourbon vanilla.

Montague notices Silas’s falter and smirks. “What? Snake got your tongue?”

“I’m too ssssober for your shit,” Silas hisses. “If you’re going to be annoying all night, you besssst take me to the bar and get me drunk.”

Montague laughs and links arms with him. “As you wish.”

Frank takes the opportunity to slither off Silas’s shoulders to Montague’s. If snakes could purr, Silas is certain that’s what he’d be doing right now. Frank nuzzles against Montague’s cheek, earning a laugh from the man. Montague scratches Frank’s chin. “Hi, Frankie. Did you miss me?”

Frank licks Montague’s nose.

“I will take that as a yes,” Montague says with a chuckle. “Silas, are you seeing this?”

“I’m well aware of what my traitoroussss snake is doing,” Silas states. “You don’t need to rub it in.” He pauses. “However, he’ssss…a ssssentient being but alsssso an extension.”

Montague looks at Silas and tilts his head. “Extension?”

Every part of Silas screams to keep this to himself. He shouldn’t tell Montague. What if one of the other Society members overheard? Everything would be over, and there would be a massive target on his back.

But this is Montague. He wouldn’t…right?

Silas sighs and turns his gaze to the floor. “Of my feelingssss.” He hates how his cheeks flush. Silas would blame it on the alcohol…if he had any in his system.

“Push me away, push me away Then beg me to stay, beg me to stay”

Montague frowns. “Your feelings? I—” Realization flashes across his face. “You mean you—” He laughs. “Oh! Well, if you wanted to give me a kiss on my cheek, you would not hear a complaint from me. You are free to do that whenever you feel the urge to.”

Silas huffs. “You’re making me regret coming here.” Frank returns to Silas to give some comfort, assuring him that he won’t abandon him for Montague…probably.

Never thought I’d see the day you open up to someone, Frank teases.

Montague bumps hips with Silas before leading him down the stairs over to the bar. Other hotel guests and party goers move aside when they see Montague walking through the crowd. Some give them weird looks while others barely spare them a glance. Nevertheless, Silas doesn’t like the attention. Word of him being here will without a doubt get back to Hope and Jonsey. They knew of Silas’s complicated history with Montague because Hope did ask if they were in a situationship. Silas didn’t know how to answer that. Anyway, Silas hopes they know he won’t divulge any of their secrets because they know he won’t spill any of Montague’s secrets.

When they approach the bar, Silas stiffens when he sees the other Society members (sans the Peter guy…Silas still doesn’t really understand his role in the operation). Nisha and Oscar sit at the barstools while Valeria tends the bar from behind. Nisha gives Silas a polite smile while Valeria and Oscar glare—if looks could kill, Silas would be bleeding out on the ground.

“Monty…why is he here?” Valeria wonders, twirling her martini. “This is supposed to be a celebration! Why bring the buzzkill?”

“I invited him. He is a guest—my guest,” Montague states.

Was that a hint of possessiveness? Frank asks.

“And I expect you to treat him as such,” Montague continues. “Now, we are going to sit here and drink. If any of you have an issue with that, you can go elsewhere, got it?”

Oscar downs the rest of his drink and spares no second to fuck off elsewhere. Good riddance. Nisha makes no move to leave. Fine. Whatever. Out of the three, Silas likes her company the best anyway. Valeria, however, could get hit by her train. That would bring a smile to Silas’s face.

Montague leads Silas to the barstool next to Nisha, holding his arm as he sits to be a gentleman (or to embarrass Silas further in front of his other friends). Once Silas is situated, Montague walks behind the bar to make them both a drink. As soon as Montague’s within arms reach of Valeria, she takes the opportunity to snake her arm against Montague’s side and interlace their fingers.

“So name a game to play And I’ll roll the dice”

“I thought we were going to spend the rest of the party together!” Valeria whines. “I was really looking forward to it too, Monty.”

Silas bites his tongue to avoid making a comment.

Montague sighs and pulls his hand away. “Val, please. You promised you would not do this.”

“Do what? I have no idea what you’re talking about, Monty,” she purrs. “Maybe we could—”

“Valeria, I think those people who were spray painting people’s cars are back outside,” Nisha interrupts, also fed up with her antics. At least Nisha knew how to read a room. “Would you like to come with me and deal with them?”

Valeria’s eyes narrow. “Those shitheads never learn, do they?” She huffs. “We’ll continue this conversation later, Monty.” She presses a kiss to the corner of his mouth then storms off towards the front doors.

Nisha finishes off her drink before giving Silas an apologetic look. “She’s—”

“I know. Thank you,” he says.

“Anytime.” She winks then follows after Valeria.

Silas turns back to Montague as he puts down two glasses and an entire bottle of FlowBerry Fizz. “Do you have a drinking problem?” Silas wonders.

“Usually when Val is trying to mark her territory, yes. It helps me calm down.” Montague pours them both a glass. “But on the flipside, I am not going to say no to a free supply of Fizz from Nisha. Her family really knows how to run a winery.” He takes a long sip.

“I feel like that’s ssssomething we should talk about,” Silas comments, swirling his wine. “Are you okay?”

Montague leans forward across the bar and grins. “Better now that you are here. I did miss you…a lot. I will admit that I had become accustomed to our consistent meetings back in Mega City. Seeing you was something I always looked forward to.”

Silas hums and sips his drink. He knows Frank is eyeing Montague, desperately wanting to slide close to him and rub his head against him, but for once, he’s behaving and staying by Silas—most likely only because Silas told Montague what Frank represents. Or maybe Silas is projecting. Maybe Silas wants to climb over the bar and—

He cuts off that train of thought with a long gulp of the Fizz.

“And I am sorry that my other friends have been less than kind to you, truly,” Montague continues. “They—”

“Not all of them,” Silas interrupts.

Montague chuckles. “Yes, Nisha. You know, she does ask about you from time to time. She thinks I have lost my charm now that we have drifted a bit apart.” He finishes off his drink then refills his glass.

As soon as Silas sets his glass down, Montague refills it too. “You’re really trying to get me drunk, aren’t you?” Silas asks.

“You asked me to, did you not?” Montague winks. “Something about me being too annoying to deal with sober? I am nothing if not a man of my word…and of my reputation.”

“Call me in the morning to apologize Every little lie gives me butterflies”

Silas’s chest flutters at those words. He grips the glass and makes the terrible decision to chug it. If Montague wanted to get him drunk then so be it. Silas likes the wicked grin that grows on Montague’s face as he watches Silas down the drink. He readily tops off Silas’s glass and joins in, probably eager to outdrink him.

Gradually, the bottle of wine gets down to the last bit, and Silas feels the pleasant buzz radiating through his body. He’s definitely going to pay for this tomorrow. “Sssso, why didn’t you call ssssooner?” Silas asks. He hates the uncertainty in his tone. Stupid booze.

“Like I said before…Nisha encouraged me to give you time to cool off.”

“Yeah, but…issss that all? You and Valeria sssseem closssse.”

Montague grabs the wine bottle and drinks the rest of it. “Yeah. You could say that. It…” He looks at Silas and studies his face with an odd expression.

Silas has never felt shameful or awkward under Montague’s gaze because usually it’s accompanied by a stupid grin. Though now, he feels self-conscious and unworthy. There’s almost a hint of desire behind Montague’s brown and blue eyes.

Then, Montague breaks eye contact and pulls a pair of glasses out of his pocket—the glasses Silas gave him back in Mega City at their last meetup before the world exploded.

Silas frowns and takes them. “You kept thesssse? All thissss time?”

“Yeah! It was like the last piece I had of you when I was unsure if you were alive,” Montague says. “I planned on giving them back sooner, but you left before I could. And I guess I was scared that I fucked everything up, so I continued to keep them. But you are here now, and I have no use for them now…now that I have you.”

“Oh, baby, look what you started The temperature’s rising in here”

Silas can’t help but break his stoic expression in shock at the revelation. He swallows, attempting to regain his composure. “Who ssssays you have me?”

Montague’s cheeks flush. “Well, um, not like that! I mean maybe—but we are here talking and being together and I think—I feel like we are back in Mega City.”

“And jusssst talking? You’ll have to try harder than that.”

“Touché.” Montague puts their empty glasses away and leans over the bar, invading Silas’s personal bubble again. “What can I do to prove myself?”

Silas says nothing, not trusting his voice to speak without wavering. Frank, however, takes it upon himself to lean forward and give Montague a lick dangerously close to his lips. Montague smirks. “I can do that but—” He stands up straight and walks around the bar to tower in front of Silas “—first we must build up to it. Skipping right to the end spoils the whole show, right? And we all know I like to do things right. I am your lavish host! Only the best for my star guest.” Montague holds his hand out to Silas, the smirk still plastered on his face.

He should slap the hand away since Montague’s being an ass, but his eyes look sincere…and a little ravenous. What’s up with that?

Silas inhales and takes Montague’s hand, causing the other man’s smile to bloom into something more loving. Montague laces their fingers together and leads him onto the colorful dance floor under the disco ball. Was the disco ball made of diamonds? Most likely. But Silas is more focused on how nicely their hands fit together and how relaxed Montague looks holding Silas’s hand over Valeria’s. With Silas, it’s firm but not tight—like he knows Silas won’t let go anytime soon. With Valeria, it looked suffocating—like any movement from Montague to get out of her grasp would cause her to dig her nails into his hand. He’d have to check Montague’s hand later to see if there are any marks.

Once they get in the middle of the dance floor, Montague wastes no time twirling Silas into his arms. He keeps their hands connected and places the other one on Silas’s waist. The touch burns, but in the way a steaming hot shower relaxes the muscles after a long day. Silas settles for putting his free hand on Montague’s shoulder. They stay almost at arm’s length until Montague pulls him closer, forcing Silas to reach around Montague’s neck to steady himself. Their hips bump and all the heat rushes to Silas’s cheeks.

“Ssssorry,” Silas mutters at their proximity.

“Nonsense.” Montague smiles. “I think my intentions are quite clear.” His hand remains on Silas, keeping them pressed together.

“Something in the way you’re looking through my eyes Don’t know if I’m gonna make it out alive”

Thankfully by now, Frank has slithered into Silas’s pack to avoid watching this unfold. Granted, he can still sense Silas’s thoughts if he wanted to, but Silas is fairly certain this is something he won’t want to witness.

Silas smells Montague’s cologne again and shivers. Oh, how he wishes he could taste Montague right now. Silas leans in close enough so his cheek brushes against Montague’s, and says, “You ssssmell intoxicating.”

Montague chuckles, sliding his hand so it rests at the small of Silas’s back. “I thought you would like it. Although, there is something I have been wanting to try.”

“Mmmm,” Silas hums, allowing Montague to lead in dancing to the music. For every step Montague takes forward, Silas takes one step back. “And what’ssss that?” Silas leans far enough back so he can look at Montague while keeping minimal distance between them.

Montague stops moving, basking in Silas’s gaze. “You.”

Silas notices they’ve migrated from the center of the dance floor to the edge where the stairs lead up to the rooms. For a moment, Silas doesn’t know what Montague means, but when Montague’s hands tense on his back and in his hand, Silas realizes.

“Is this gonna happen? Been waiting and waiting for you to make a move Before I make a move”

It’s probably a mistake and a horrible idea that will certainly blow up in his face later. He’ll have to blame it on the alcohol later, but right now, Silas wastes no time bridging the gap between them. He cups Montague’s chin in the hand not being held captive by Montague and slots their lips together for a quick but desperate kiss. Their first kiss is by no means neat considering they’re still awkwardly holding hands, and Montague has a death grip on Silas’s lower back. If he holds on any tighter, he’s going to rip the jacket.

Not that he’d mind if Montague tore the jacket off. That would move things along.

Silas pulls back first, unsure if he overstepped. “Um…I— did I missssread that?”

Montague shakes his head. “Fuck no. But we should go somewhere more private.” He steps away from Silas and leads him up the grand staircase. They walk across the balcony over to what Silas assumes is Montague’s room. Down below, none of the party guests pay them any mind. Except, Silas catches Valeria’s eye, earning a fiery scowl from her, but next to her, Nisha gives him an approving nod.

Nisha’s validation is good enough for him.

Montague tears open the door, ushering Silas in before slamming it shut. No doubt everybody downstairs heard that. There’s a king bed tucked in the corner turret of the room. A desk sits to its right with a computer and three monitors. A painting of what looks like the hotel covered in snow hangs the same wall as the door—no surprise there. Another door leads to a bathroom and next to that stands a tall, lucious fireplace. The room isn’t as decorated as Silas would have thought, but then again, Montague was never one to hold onto many things with sentimental value—unless said item belonged to Silas apparently.

“Thissss where you take all your conquestssss?” Silas wonders.

Montague walks at Silas until he’s pressed against the wall. His hat falls to the side but neither of them pay it any mind.

Montague leans in, whispering, “Just you.” His gaze rakes across Silas’s face for a moment before he crashes his lips onto Silas’s.

Silas inhales, taking in that cinnamon smokey scent once more. He slides his hands up Montague’s arms and into his hair, running his fingers through it. Montague grabs the top of Silas’s jacket and unzips it, forcing him to shrug it off. Silas briefly breaks the kiss, earning a whine of protest from Montague.

“Sssso impatient,” Silas says, gently setting down the bag that has Frank.

Once the bag is on the ground, Montague grabs Silas’s hips again. “Forgive me for being antsy, but I think this has been a long time coming.”

Silas brushes his lips against Montague’s, smirking at the whine that escapes his mouth. “It hassss, hasssn’t it?”

“Fuck—you are cruel.”

Silas grins and pushes forward against Montague, connecting their lips again. He leads them near the bed as he fumbles with the buttons on Montague’s silky shirt.

“Fight so dirty, but you love so sweet”

He manages to get the last button undone and helps Montague out of it, tossing it to the side. Montague’s hands explore Silas’s chest for any buttons or something to take off his shirt, but it’s just a regular black turtleneck.

“Why did you insist on wearing this fucking shirt?” Montague huffs against Silas’s lips. “Makes it hard to get it off. Unless you want me to rip it off you.”

Silas laughs and pulls away. “Allow me.” Montague watches as Silas slowly lifts up the bottom of the shirt to expose his stomach.

“Fucking tease.”

“He pulls it over his head and the silver chain he wears falls into his bare chest. A shiver runs down his spine at the cool metal. Silas falls back onto the bed and looks up at Montague expectantly. “Better?”

“Much.” Montague leans down, placing a knee between Silas’s legs. “Hiding all this from me? Silas, how could you?”

“I’ve learned that a little mysssstery is good for you, Montague,” Silas says. His gaze moves to the amulet still around Montague’s neck. “Gonna turn me into diamond? I admit I would make a good statement piece.”

Montague’s cheeks flush and he quickly removes it, setting it to the side. “No. That would be—no.” He crawls further on top of Silas, using one hand to keep him steady above him and the other to trace a line along Silas’s chin.

Silas, now growing impatient himself, reaches around Montague’s neck and pulls him down into another kiss. Montague falters a bit when his hips land on Silas’s, but when Silas’s breath hitches against his lips, he regains composure.

“Just think—everything we could do,” Montague mutters between kisses. “We could be—unstoppable.”

Silas says nothing, not really sure where he’s going with this. Less talk. More kissing.

“If you’d just join us—me—”

Silas freezes underneath him. Montague begins trailing kisses across Silas’s chin and down his neck. He can’t be serious. Right now? He’s choosing to bring this up now?!

“—the Underground wouldn’t know what to do—”

For the love of everything—don’t say it. Don’t fucking say it.

“—you’d make the Society a powerhouse—”

“Talk so pretty, but your heart got teeth”

And suddenly…this isn’t fun anymore.

“Montague, stop. Get off me.”

“What—” Montague sits up with a confused expression. “What happened?”

“Did you lure me in here—into your bedroom just to trick me into joining the Ssssociety again?!” Silas demands, voice laced with venom. “I already told you no.”

Montague’s eyes widen. “Fuck—no! It just slipped out!” Montague exclaims. “Silas, please. Just forget it and go back to where we were. Please.” He leans in to kiss him again, but Silas puts a hand on his chest. “Silas.”

“No. Get off me. Now.”

Montague nods and scrambles off Silas. He offers a hand to help him up, but Silas slaps it away. Silas grabs his discarded shirt and jacket and angrily puts them on.

“Silas, please don’t leave. I’m sorry. I didn’t mean—”

Silas turns to glare at him, eyes glossy with tears. “My feelingssss aren’t for your entertainment. Ssssave that for your other victimssss. Goodbye, Montague.” He storms out of the room, slamming the door behind him.

Frank slithers out of the bag and nuzzles against Silas, wiping the tears off his cheeks. I’m sorry, he says. I thought he was different.

Silas puts on his glasses and takes a deep breath to compose himself. “Me too, but I guess people never change.”

Part 3

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keithpoenewt · 5 months

Text

5 Times Montague and Silas Fought + 1 Time They Didn't - Part 1

A friend put this idea in my head. I ran with it. Does anybody even ship this? Who knows. It ain't my fault Montague canonically asked Silas to join the Society multiple times. WHY IS THAT HUH???

Masterlist

1. the boy is mine / when the party's over - Mega City

Word count: 2,806

“I’m usually so unproblematic So independent, tell me why”

If there’s one thing Montague cares about, it’s power (and Fizz, but that’s a discussion for a different day). He likes knowing the chain of command, who to stay away from, and who can be extorted or bribed. Montague prefers to be higher up on the food chain otherwise he’ll remain off people’s radars. He’s not here to piss anyone important off (unless it will turn into a profit for himself). Power is what he wants, but he can’t quite have it just yet. The Seven failed to stop The Herald from chromifying all realities, thus causing the universe to explode. The Rift Warden couldn’t repair the damage, allowing other realities to seep into this one, one of them being a place called Mega City. Honestly, Montague didn’t mind it there much. He met some potential allies who he may decide to contact later when the right moment arises. Though, one he couldn’t get out of his head: Silas Hesk. He liked the mysterious aura Silas gave off (that and having a pet snake as an accessory is pretty badass). Montague decided to keep meeting up with him since he enjoyed his company the most out of everyone he met.

Even with the world on the brink of another explosion and a new rainforest (a place Montague will NOT be setting foot in because he doesn’t want to have some unknown bug bite him and kill him), he still seeks out Silas’s company. After months, Montague still can’t figure out why he feels so drawn to him.

“‘Cause that boy is mine, mine Something about him is made for somebody like me”

“So, what’s with the snake?” Montague asks before downing the rest of his cocktail. He knows Silas usually doesn’t care when people ask him personal questions because he just won’t answer the questions but anything on the snake? Well, that always sets him off. If Montague’s being serious…he kind of likes it when Silas loses his cool.

Silas turns and gives him a small glare. “For your ssssake, that better be a joke. I could just walk out of here.”

“Don’t you know too much already? I’ll only hurt you if you let me”

“You could, yes, but you would have done it the moment I asked about it.” Montague grins, signaling the bartender for another drink. “But you didn’t.”

“I sssstill could.”

“What’s stopping you?”

Silas leans in, glasses slipping down his nose. If this is his attempt at intimidation, it almost works…if not for his snake, Frank, moving to lick Montague’s cheek. Montague’s smile widens when Silas pulls Frank back. “Hey!” he scolds. “Not cool!”

“I don’t mind.”

“I know you don’t mind. I mind esssspecially when I’m trying to prove a point!” Silas exclaims. He takes a deep breath and pushes his glasses back up the bridge of his nose. “How about thissss—I’ll tell you the sssstory when you’ve earned it, deal?”

“And how will I know I have earned it?” Montague wonders.

Silas grins and removes his glasses. He wipes them on his sleeve then places them on Montague. “Telling you would ruin the fun. It’ssss a game. Unlessss you want to divulge the secret of that amulet of yourssss.”

Montague places a hand on his blue amulet instinctively. As far as everyone is concerned, it’s just a statement piece to make him appear as a bigger asshole than he is. When in reality, it’s how he’s able to manipulate diamonds to fight and get what he wants. Montague does trust Silas, but if he won’t talk about the snake, then he won’t talk about the amulet.

“I will tell you about the necklace when you tell me about the snake…how about that?”

Silas nods. “You’ve got a deal.” He turns away and sips his drink. Montague admires his side profile, gaze moving to his Adam’s apple when he swallows. There are many words Montague could use to describe Silas, but right now, he can only think of calling him pretty. His sharp jaw contrasted by his soft skin (not that Montague would know what it feels like…he just imagines Silas has a great skincare routine—is that glitter on his cheek or a trick of the light?)

“Baby, come over, come over And God knows I’m trying, but there’s just no use in denying”

The bartender brings Montague’s drink, but for once in a long time, alcohol isn’t at the center of his attention. He thought Silas’s eyes looked purple because of the tint of his glasses he always wears, but they’re blue. Not like the sky in the daytime, but the kind of blue you’d only see at the top of a mountain when the sun is slipping below the horizon. The flashing lights make it look like stars twinkling in vast violet galaxies encompassing his eyes, waiting to be discovered. Montague would spend millennia exploring them if the opportunity presented itself.

He shakes his head and turns back to his drink. Crazy talk. It’s a miracle Silas even agreed to keep meeting. He can’t ruin it by making things weird between them. Although, he could blame it on the alcohol and deny everything if it all blew up in his face, but by now both men are familiar with each other’s limits. Silas would call Montague’s bluff almost immediately.

“It looked like you wanted to ssssay something,” Silas comments. “You were sssstaring at me pretty intently.”

“You, um, your eyes have a little purple to them.” Montague swirls his drink. “I thought it was just your glasses.”

“Mm, yes, they are dark blue. Although, not quite as impressssive as yours.” Silas takes a sip of his whiskey. “I would desssscribe them as disssstractingly alluring.”

“Is that why you gave me your glasses? My eyes are distracting you?”

Silas shakes his head. “I didn’t mean it as an inssssult. Both colors ssssuit you quite well.”

Frank hisses.

“I am not ssssaying that,” Silas snaps. “Hush.”

Montague resists the urge to comment on that, knowing Silas won’t like it. As much as he likes to rile Silas up, this would go too far. He just makes a mental note that Silas can communicate with the snake telepathically in some way.

Frank hisses again, causing Silas’s cheeks to flush. He quickly finishes his drink then stands.

“I’m ssssorry, but I have to go.” He glances at Montague. “Thissss was nice. I will get the glasssses from you next time we meet.”

Montague nods. “Is everything okay?”

“Call me a friend but keep me closer And I’ll call you when the party’s over”

Silas looks like he wants to say more, but he simply nods. “Yessss, don’t worry. Good night, Montague. Thank you for thissss. I do alwayssss enjoy our time together.” He leaves some money on the counter and leaves the club.

Montague watches him go. If he had more liquid courage in him, he’d follow Silas out. But he doesn’t…yet. Montague downs the rest of his drink. There’s a numbness blooming in his chest, but he’s not going to pluck that tonight. He signals the bartender for a set of shots.

“The boy is mine I can’t wait to try him”

Silas has his secrets, and that’s what makes the little back and forth they’ve got so invigorating. Montague loves the chase. And if getting shitfaced means he doesn’t make a poor decision and chase after the snake…well…it’ll be worth the hangover in the morning.

When the world exploded yet again, Montague worried he’d never see Silas again. Who knows how many people got lost, but honestly, he didn’t care about the rest of the world. He sought out Silas’s last known location, thankfully finding him alive and well.

Knowing his friend was okay, Montague could see an opportunity presenting itself—the very opportunity he’d been waiting for since having to deal with chrome staining his clothes every other day. During a walk to survey the area around his soon to be Grand Glacier Hotel, he stumbled upon something glowing from underneath a pile of snow. Montague brushes the snow out of the way with his foot, kneeling down when he spots five golden medallions peeking out. He lifts up one to examine it further and it begins to transform, morphing into a copy of his amulet. It glows briefly before settling in his hand.

“Oh…this changes things,” he mutters to himself.

Montague digs out the other four medallions and hurries back to the hotel. He has no idea the full power of these medallions, but he does know he needs allies. The first few people who come to mind are Oscar, the owner of Lavish Lair, Nisha, owner of Fencing Fields and the largest FlowBerry farm on Helios, Valeria, a mysterious woman who could control fire, and lastly, Silas Hesk. Well, Silas was the first person he invited over, but he wanted to wait to tell him in person what the plan was. Montague told everyone else over the phone since he didn’t think they’d want to make the trek to his hotel without good reason (they all had busy schedules afterall).

Oscar and Nisha arrive first. Oscar heads straight for the bar while Nisha hands Montague his favorite bottle of wine as a gift before joining Oscar. Nisha was quiet when they first met, but Montague could tell she cared more than she let on. She did remember him mentioning her family made his favorite wine. Valeria arrives shortly after, greeting Montague with a hug that lasts a bit longer than expected.

“I am very much looking forward to our alliance, Montague,” she whispers, tracing his jawline. “I think we’re going to accomplish a lot together.”

Montague gives her a polite smile. “As am I, Valeria.”

She rubs her thumb on his chin. “Call me Val. I think you’ve earned it.”

A blush creeps onto Montague’s cheeks. Oh, she was good. Her smile seems genuine, but there’s something in her eyes that he can’t quite place. Montague doesn’t know if she’s being serious in her advances, but there’s only one person he really wants to work with here.

“Ssssorry I’m late.” Silas stops when he sees Valeria with her hand cupping Montague’s chin. “Am I interrupting?”

Valeria smiles and removes her hand. “No. We were just chatting.”

Silas says nothing, but Frank hisses at her. This further confirms Montague’s theory that Frank just puts Silas’s inner thoughts on blast.

“Silas!” Montague exclaims, stepping away from Valeria. “No, you’re not late. You’re never late.” He grins, hoping to improve Silas’s mood.

Silas’s expression never changes, but Frank moves to get closer to Montague. Silas gently grabs him to stop him. “Sssso, why are we here?”

Montague claps. “Yes! Right! Okay!” He leads Valeria and Silas over to where Oscar and Nisha are. Montague pulls out the medallions and passes each of them one. “These are what I found the other day during a walk. I am not sure where they came from, but they are extremely powerful. They give us near indestructible shields. And I’m thinking we take this opportunity to take some control over this place, yeah? There’s a power vacancy, and I think we have waited long enough for our turn on top. We will call ourselves the Society.”

Oscar, Nisha, and Valeria all nod in agreement, each of their medallions transforming. Oscar and Valeria’s turn into a sort of self-portrait of themselves while Nisha’s takes the form of her fencing school’s emblem. Montague looks to Silas, waiting for his medallion to transform but nothing happens.

“Silas?” Montague asks. “Is something wrong?”

“I’m not ssssure about this,” he responds, rubbing the medallion with his thumb. “Why didn’t you mention thissss to me on the phone?”

Montague grins “I wanted it to be a surprise!”

“Or did you think he would say no and hang up?” Valeria wonders, putting her medallion around her neck. “Really, we don’t need someone who’s not willing to commit to our plans. If he’s not an immediate yes, find someone else.”

Montague rubs his temples. “Guys, give us a moment in private please?” He waits for the other three to walk away before continuing. “What’s wrong? Is this because I didn’t tell you over the phone like everyone else?”

“No! I’m used to your theatricssss. I’ve known you long enough to expect the unexpected, but I didn’t think you’d go thissss far!” Silas hisses.

“I am not sure what you mean. I thought I have been pretty transparent with my ambitions in life.”

Silas groans. “Not what I’m referring to. I know that you’re power hungry. It’s one of your more endearing traitssss.”

Montague blinks, cheeks flushing briefly. “Okay, well, you have lost me now.”

“Do you even know who you’re working with? Or what their intentions are? In all thissss time we’ve known each other, you’ve mentioned each of them maybe twice. I only recognized Nisha because sssshe’s the only one you ever introduced me to—and I think that’ssss because she gets you Fizz.”

Montague scoffs. He’s capable of finding someone’s company pleasant without the idea of alcohol in mind. Nisha is nice and funny when you get her talking. Montague is starting to wish he was talking with her right now instead of Silas.

“Plussss, something’s…off about Valeria. I don’t know what it issss but I think there’s more to it…more to why she’ssss here,” Silas continues. “You need to—”

“Is this because she had her hand on my face when you walked in?” Montague winces at the bluntness. He didn’t mean to sound so accusatory…it just kind of came out. “Wait—”

Silas’s expression hardens and Frank curls under Silas’s shirt. “Oh, sssso you’re going there? Really? After everything?!”

“Silas, I didn’t—”

“I don’t want to fucking hear it, alright? You know what?” Silas shoves the medallion into Montague’s arms. “Enjoy your Ssssociety life with people who’d gladly sssstab you in the back, Montague. Call me when you get your head out of your assss.”

“Silas—”

“And don’t even think about asking me to join your little Ssssociety ever again because if you do, we’re done, got it?”

Montague deflates and nods. He watches Silas storm out of the hotel, slamming the door shut behind him. A moment passes before the others walk over to him. Nisha places a hand on his shoulder to offer some reassurance.

“Good riddance I say,” Valeria says. “I don’t trust a guy who has a pet snake. Anyway, we’re gonna need someone to fill the fifth spot. Anyone have any ideas?”

“There was this guy I met at Fencing Fields when I was visiting,” Oscar shares. “I think his name was Pedro? Peter? I dunno. He seemed…interesting. A little weird…kept asking about somebody named Lois?” He shrugs. “We could try him?”

“Whatever. Fine. I want to get started on building our empire as soon as possible,” Valeria says. “Montague…are you focused?”

Montague simply nods at her, still staring at the door.

“Great. We’ll meet again tomorrow at my place. Can’t risk any reptiles getting in.” She motions for Oscar to follow her. “Come, tiger. We have a lot to discuss.”

The two leave and Nisha steps in front of Montague, removing her mask. “Are you okay?” she asks. “Because you look like you’re about to go finish that entire bottle I gave you in one sitting.”

“Would that be so bad?”

Nisha crosses her arms. “Listen, if you want things to work out with Silas—”

“We’re not—”

Nisha waves her hand dismissively. “Sure you’re not. Regardless, you can’t push him like that, alright? I’ve only met him a handful of times, but you and I both know he doesn’t appreciate being cornered. Give him some time to cool off and then have a conversation. You two clearly care a great deal for one another—don’t let this destroy what you’ve built together.”

Montague nods. “Thank you, Nisha. I knew asking you to join me was the right move.”

“Usually I aim for first place, but I can settle for second this one time.”

“Who said you were second?”

“I don’t think anyone could beat Silas.”

Montague’s cheeks heat up. “Whatever…have a good night, Nisha.”

She waves and heads out.

When she’s gone, Montague does exactly what Nisha predicted—he pops open the wine bottle she gave him and takes a swig out of it. It burns going down, but he doesn’t give a shit. Did he have to fuck things up so bad to send Silas storming out? Why did he ask that? Was he wanting Silas to admit he was jealous? Why should he care about whether or not Silas is jealous?

He takes another swig.

No. Montague is not in love with Silas Hesk.

He just doesn’t want to lose the only person he’s ever cared about.

Part 2

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